Powerful Minister Buddha Like Sweet Wife

 

Chapter 37: New Year

"Look here, hissing, your hand is pressing on my hair ," Liu Tangxi gasped in pain.The inconvenience was undeniable, and it lay squarely in the burden of her long hair. The original owner had likely never cut her hair since childhood, leaving it extraordinarily long, cascading down past her waist.She had washed her hair the previous afternoon but, not having tied it up, she let it spread out across the bed last night.In her anxiety the previous evening, she had neglected to consider her hair.In the morning, as she lay deeply asleep, she tried to turn over only to feel a painful tug on her hair. Upon opening her eyes, she discovered that Wei Hanzhou was lying so close that her hair was pinned beneath him.The discomfort was almost unbearable.Without time for shyness, Liu Tangxi began to complain directly to Wei Hanzhou.Wei Hanzhou had experienced a restless night. He had covered her with quilt numerous time as she was a restless sleeper , disrupting his sleep so thoroughly that he had hardly rested. Just as he finally fell into a deep slumber, he was abruptly awakened, and now found himself at fault.Although he didn't want to dwell on the issue, he felt compelled to address it first.Yet, before Wei Hanzhou could say anything, he glanced down and saw that, as expected, Liu Tangxi's hair was indeed under his hand.Moreover, his own long hair was tangled with hers.In that instant, Wei Hanzhou's heart softened, and he lost his breath."I'm sorry," Wei Hanzhou said, lifting his hand in an apology to Liu Tangxi.When Liu Tangxi saw Wei Hanzhou frowning, she initially thought he was going to argue with her. This made her feel a bit apprehensive and unjust. However, when Wei Hanzhou apologized, her pride was immediately restored."Hmph, sleep more honestly next time, or you'll end up sleeping on the floor," Liu Tangxi said, lifting her chin slightly."Yeah," Wei Hanzhou replied.Seeing Wei Hanzhou's sincere apology, Liu Tangxi felt a sense of satisfaction.After addressing Wei Hanzhou, Liu Tangxi felt a cold draft seeping through the gap in the window ridge, making her shiver involuntarily.Glancing outside, it appeared quite early, so Liu Tangxi numbly lay back down.At this hour, just past dawn, after careful consideration, Wei Hanzhou had only slept for about two hours that night. Lacking the habit of returning to bed, and having had a restless night, he doubted he would fall asleep again.Thus, Wei Hanzhou lifted the quilt and got up.Liu Tangxi noticed Wei Hanzhou preparing to start his day, opened her eyes, glanced at him, then wrapped herself tightly in the quilt and closed her eyes once more.Listening to the howling northwest wind outside, Liu Tangxi thought to herself that reading was truly difficult, but at least she didn't have to.After getting up, Wei Hanzhou opened the door.Upon opening it, he encountered Wei laoSan, who was also up early.Wei laoSan had been recovering from a serious illness this year and had focused on exercise, believing that his improving health was due to this effort. Consequently, he had taken to hiking with his son.The father and son climbed all the way to the top of the mountain.Standing on the top and looking down at the peaceful villagers and fields below, Wei Hanzhou felt a profound sense of relaxation.The exhilarating feeling of being high up and gazing afar was so refreshing, it seemed to make all worries vanish.Wei laoSan took a moment to catch his breath, finally calming down. Observing his son's expression, he smiled and said, "You've always enjoyed climbing mountains since you were a child, and it seems you still do."Being his own son, who had seen him grow up, Wei laoSan could discern even subtle changes in his expression. Thus, he could sense his son's good mood at that moment.Wei Hanzhou came back to his senses, looked at Wei laoSan, and said, "Yes, the Peak offers an unobstructed view; you can see everything."Wei laoSan smiled and began to speak further but was interrupted by a coughing fit.Seeing this, Wei Hanzhou quickly descended the mountain with Wei laoSan.After a while, Liu Tangxi also got up. Today, she was busy cooking, and Zhang shi was tending the fire.After completing her tasks, she noticed that there was no movement in the study. Li shi turned to Liu Tangxi and said, "Third daughter-in-law, it's almost time forbreakfast. Go call your Husband ."Reflecting on the events of the previous night and this morning made Liu Tangxi feel a bit embarrassed. Nonetheless, she responded to Li shi's request."Alright."With that, Liu Tangxi headed toward the study.Upon reaching the study's entrance, Liu Tangxi took a deep breath, knocked on the door, and tried to stay calm as she said, "Husband, breakfast is ready."A voice soon responded from inside, "I see."Relieved by the response, Liu Tangxi turned and left.It seemed that things weren't as awkward as she had imagined. She felt a bit foolish for her previous nervousness.Reassured, Liu Tangxi returned to her previous composure.At the table, Liu Tangxi took her usual place beside Wei Hanzhou.After a busy morning, she was quite hungry and looking forward to the meal.Noticing that Wei Hanzhou ate slowly, she observed that his appetite seemed less than usual."Third son, why aren't you eating more? You're having so little today," Li shi said with concern."I'm not very hungry today," Wei Hanzhou explained."Eat more. Your uncle and the others are coming. We don't know when the next meal will be," Wei laoSan said with a smile.Wei Hanzhou hesitated.Liu Tangxi was also uncertain.She had already eaten a vegetable bun but still felt unsatisfied and wanted to have a few bites of the meat bun.But she couldn't finish the whole bun herself.Her eyes lingered on the meat bun.Hearing Li shi and Wei laoSan's comments, she turned her head and glanced at Wei Hanzhou. Suddenly, an idea struck her, and she reached for a pork and cabbage bun, broke it in half, and handed half to Wei Hanzhou."Husband, Father and Mother said you should eat more. If you can't finish it, we can share it."Wei Hanzhou looked at Liu Tangxi and took the half-bun she offered.As he accepted it, Liu Tangxi cheerfully ate the remaining bun in her hand.Seeing this, Li shi smiled and said, "Third son, you should eat it quickly. Your wife has already shared her portion with you."Okay," Wei Hanzhou replied.Pleased with Wei Hanzhou's acceptance, Liu Tangxi felt satisfied.Later that day, Li shi's other relatives arrived.Li shi's family lived in the neighboring Lijia Village, making their visit quite convenient.Li shi's parents had passed away long ago, and her brothers had established their own families. Today, all of them had gathered, bringing many old and young relatives.With the arrival of these relatives, Liu Tangxi had remained by the stove all day, except for brief moments to greet the guests.Cooking, preparing dishes, and washing up... Zhang shi and her had their hands full, while Zhou shi had it slightly easier as she only had to look after Zhongxing.With three children in the family, Liu Tangxi didn't think much of it, but with the addition of the relatives' children, there were now seven or eight kids playing around in the yard. It was overwhelming.After the relatives left in the afternoon, Liu Tangxi still felt the echoes of the children's voices in her ears. It was quite exhausting.As everyone was about to rest, Liu Tangxi took a bath with cold water.Due to the large number of guests during the day, she had used a chair from her own house.Liu Tangxi had forgotten to move it back again.For some reason, Wei Hanzhou seemed to have forgotten as well.So, late at night, when Wei Hanzhou returned from the study, he glanced around the room and then at the bed.The part of the bed assigned to him had already been made. The bottom was his usual bedding, and the top layer was from the hall a few days ago. His pillows were placed beside Liu Tangxi's as they had been in the morning.Looking inside, he saw that his wife was already lying there.Outside, the world was icy and snowy, with the northwest wind rustling. At the base of the mountain, even the trees rustled in the wind.Everything outside mirrored the harsh winter cold.Inside the house, despite the absence of a stove, it felt as warm as spring.The dim candlelight, the well-prepared bed, the thick blankets, and his peacefully sleeping wife created a comforting scene.As Wei Hanzhou moved, Liu Tangxi suddenly opened her eyes, noticing him. "What are you staring at? If you don't hurry and sleep, I'll sleep before you."Liu Tangxi had already been in bed but hadn't fallen asleep. She heard Wei Hanzhou's movements as he closed the study door.She had forgotten to bring a chair for Wei Hanzhou today again.Looking at the three quilts and two pillows on the bed, she had initially settled in the middle, closed her eyes, and tried to sleep.Then, about fifteen minutes later, she got up again.She adjusted her pillow, placed Wei Hanzhou's pillow next to hers, and finally arranged his quilt.As she did this, she thought about her own virtues.Simultaneously, she reassured herself, reasoning that she was doing this for her own good.After all, if Wei Hanzhou became ill due to her oversight and missed the exam, she would not return to the capital with him. No, she had to ensure his health and safety, preventing any undue misfortune because of her.With this reassurance, Liu Tangxi felt more at ease and lay back down.When Wei Hanzhou entered, Liu Tangxi's nerves tensed.As Wei Hanzhou stood at the bedside, seemingly lost in thought and not taking further action, Liu Tangxi's unease grew.She wondered if all her concerns were merely wishful thinking.Wei Hanzhou, who seldom looked directly at her and often ignored her, seemed indifferent. Their interactions mostly felt like abuse rather than affection.He didn't seem to have any genuine feelings for her.Considering the man's character and achievements in the book, Liu Tangxi began to believe that Wei Hanzhou probably didn't even like her.Reflecting on her own identity as the distinguished Miss of a prominent family, capable in both social and domestic matters, she wondered why he would disdain her.She started to look down on him too!If he didn't want to share the bed, he could sleep on the floor and study alone. She wouldn't stop him.The ideal, tranquil picture Wei Hanzhou had envisioned suddenly dissipated.He glanced at Liu Tangxi lying in bed, then turned to blow out the candle. Removing his outer garments, he lay down on the bed.Seeing Wei Hanzhou's obedience, Liu Tangxi exhaled quietly.In the darkness, she shot a fierce glare at him.If looks could cause harm, Wei Hanzhou would be badly bruised at that moment.After glaring at him, Liu Tangxi's anger subsided as she mentally scolded him.She closed her eyes and gradually fell asleep.Hearing the steady rhythm of breathing, Wei Hanzhou turned slightly and observed Liu Tangxi sleeping close by.Although the serene image had vanished, the vividness of the scene remained.It wasn't just vivid but also carried a lingering scent, making it difficult for Wei Hanzhou to sleep comfortably.However, Liu Tangxi slept soundly and woke up feeling refreshed.Seeing that Wei Hanzhou had left, Liu Tangxi began to rise slowly.Reflecting on the past two nights, she realized she had slept quite well.She is, in fact, a person who is deeply insecure. In her previous life, she worked alone in a large city, occasionally feeling a profound loneliness and yearning for companionship. Unfortunately, she never encountered that person she hoped for.Now, finding herself suddenly transported to a strange and unfamiliar dynasty, her heart feels unsettled and disoriented.However, over the past two nights, the restlessness in her heart seems to have eased significantly.Is it because of Wei Hanzhou?As this thought crossed her mind, Liu Tangxi's hand, which was in the process of lifting her shoes, momentarily froze.No... surely not?It must be because there is another person around, making her feel more secure as she sleeps. This person could be Wei Hanzhou, or perhaps Li shi, or Zhang shi.Yes, it must be this.Liu Tangxi reassured herself with these thoughts.Soon, she set aside this question, pushing it from her mind.Today is the 29th of the twelfth lunar month, with New Year's Eve just a night away.Almost all the relatives of Wei Lao san's family are expected to arrive, but none have come today. They are still engaged with visiting relatives.Liu Tangxi, who preferred not to go out and was newly married, was not asked to join by Li shi.Wei Daniu and Wei Erniu had gone out alone to visit their own wife's natal families.With their departure, the house felt empty, leaving only the Li shi, Wei Zhongxing, Wei Hanzhou, and Liu Tangxi.Liu Tangxi took this opportunity to relax.The previous days had been so busy that her shoulders were still sore.Tomorrow would bring more busyness, and the first day of the new year would also be demanding. It was a welcome break to rest at this moment.With fewer people in the house, they paid more attention to each other.During dinner, Wei Lao San noticed his son's unusual appearance.At the table, Wei Lao San observed his son and asked, "Third son, why do I notice that your dark circles seem quite pronounced? Have you not been sleeping well these past few days?"Wei Hanzhou, recalling his recent nights of insomnia, paused momentarily while holding his food."I'm fine, Father.""Have you been reading too long? It's the Chinese New Year, and the cold weather can be harsh. Don't let yourself catch a cold; that would be troublesome."Li shi glanced at her son, then at Liu Tangxi, and took over the conversation, "You're on vacation now. There's no need to read so much every day. With the New Year approaching, you should relax. Don't stay up late reading."Liu Tangxi, who had been watching Wei Hanzhou, quickly shifted her gaze to Li shi upon hearing her words.Seeing Li shi's knowing eyes, Liu Tangxi felt a blush of embarrassment and hurriedly lowered her head to continue eating."Yes, I will remember, Mother."Wei Hanzhou started to speak again but was interrupted by Li shi."Eat up. Tomorrow is New Year's Eve. The third wife should go back to her room and rest early," Li shi said with a smile.Liu Tangxi immediately understood Li shi's meaning and felt even more embarrassed.Wei Hanzhou also understood, as his mother had hinted at him clearly several times, making it hard to miss.Seeing her son and daughter-in-law bow their heads and focus on their meals, Li shi's smile grew even more satisfied.That evening, since there were no guests, they didn't use the chairs in their room. It seemed neither Liu Tangxi nor Wei Hanzhou had thought to move the chairs back.The two of them seemed to have tacitly agreed to avoid mentioning it.That night, Wei Hanzhou continued to suffer from insomnia, while Liu Tangxi slept soundly and securely.Early the next morning, after breakfast, Wei Hanzhou began writing couplets.As the only literet person in the village, many people came to their home to request couplets.This was the first time Liu Tangxi had witnessed so many visitors to the Wei family.Of course, not many came empty-handed. For instance, when Mr. Wei's family came to ask for a couplet, they brought some eggs as well.Wei Lao San and Wei Lao Er sat at the hall entrance, chatting for a long time.The two of them appeared to have a good relationship.Wei Lao San and Wei Lao Er were similar in appearance. Both seemed to have calm temperaments, speaking softly and always smiling.Wei Lao Si had married a woman from the town, who had been preparing for exams and hadn't returned for many years.Wei Hanzhou spent more than an hour writing the couplets.After finishing the couplets for others, it was finally his turn to write for his own home.Bosheng, who had been playing with his sisters, came to watch Wei Hanzhou write.Liu Tangxi, observing the two nephew and the uncle, suggested, "Why don't you let Bosheng try writing one?"There were many doors in the house. The doors that were visible from outside, like the facade and the hall, needed to be written by Wei Hanzhou. The other doors, like the kitchen, were less critical.Upon hearing Liu Tangxi's suggestion, Wei Hanzhou paused and looked at his nephew, who was standing nearby.Noticing the gaze from his third uncle and third aunt, Bosheng's face flushed, and he shyly refused, "No, no, third aunt, I just learned and can't write well."Seeing his hesitation, Liu Tangxi wished he would give it a try."It's okay. Everyone starts somewhere. If you can't write well, your third uncle can teach you."Hearing this, Wei LaoSan, who was sitting at the entrance of the hall, smiled and said, "Bosheng, give it a try. Once you're done, we'll post it on the door of our hall."Bosheng, as the eldest grandson of Wei LaoSan, had a special status compared to the younger siblings.Having the son write outside and the grandson write at home seemed to be a form of family tradition.Li shi and others also supported the idea.Wei Hanzhou dipped the brush in ink and handed it to his nephew, who stood anxiously beside him.Bosheng, with a nervous expression, took the brush."Write it.""Third Uncle, can I really do it?" Bosheng asked uncertainly."Third Uncle will appreciate your handwriting," Wei Hanzhou said gently.Bosheng's eyes brightened, and he nodded solemnly.With Wei Hanzhou's assistance, Bosheng slowly finished writing a couplet.Looking at his own writing and then comparing it to his third uncle's, he felt dispirited.His writing appeared inferior in comparison.Noticing that his third uncle might use his couplet, Bosheng said with some embarrassment, "Third Uncle, maybe it's better not to use it."He felt embarrassed by his work.Wei Hanzhou looked at his nephew and frowned.It seemed his nephew lacked confidence in himself.Wei Hanzhou glanced at Liu Tangxi, who was feeding the pigs, thought for a moment, and asked softly, "Do you think your third aunt is good at writing?"Bosheng nodded without hesitation, "Yes, my third aunt can embroider and knows so many words. She's amazing.""But her handwriting isn't as good as yours.""Huh?" Bosheng looked at Wei Hanzhou in surprise. He had always admired his third aunt but didn't expect her to be lacking in handwriting skills."Post it. Your third aunt will say that you write beautifully.""Really?" Bosheng asked, still somewhat unsure.Wei Hanzhou nodded and suggested, "If you're uncertain, go and ask her."He knew Liu Tangxi somewhat well; she was always tolerant of children and enjoyed encouraging and praising them.Bosheng glanced at Liu Tangxi, who was feeding the pigs, hesitated, and then approached her with the couplet he had written."Auntie, what do you think of my writing? Can it be posted on the door?" Bosheng asked timidly.Liu Tangxi, unaware of the conversation between her nephew and Wei Hanzhou, looked at Bosheng's couplet, smiled, and praised, "It's wonderful, well written.""Really?""Of course, it's true. I think you write better than your third uncle. You're very talented."Liu Tangxi praised him earnestly.For a child like Bosheng, who lacked confidence, Liu Tangxi always used an encouraging approach."No, no, Third Aunt, you must be joking. The third uncle's writing is much better. I have a long way to go."Despite his lack of confidence and self-deprecation, Bosheng knew that his third uncle's writing was far superior to his own and acknowledged that he needed more practice.Liu Tangxi ruffled Bosheng's hair and smiled, "How could I be joking? Your third uncle couldn't write at your age. You're already much better than he was."Hearing this Wei Hanzhou chuckled quietly at a distance .