Red Mansion: Holding Space and Marrying Like the Sea

Friends, from now on Xifeng will be called Xifeng!

Sunlight streamed into the house through the windows. Hu warmly invited Xifeng to join her for breakfast. As they savored the delicious food, they chatted about gossip from various mansions, their conversation light and cheerful, filled with laughter.

After breakfast, Xifeng chatted with Hu for a while longer before she left and returned to her own courtyard. Her courtyard, located east of the main courtyard and about a cup of tea's walk away, was tranquil and peaceful. A plaque hung at the entrance, inscribed with the three large characters "You Ran Yuan" (You Ran Yuan), in elegant and freehand calligraphy, highlighting the owner's refined taste.

Entering the courtyard, one is greeted by an exquisite rockery, planted with a variety of exotic flowers and plants, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene of spring all year round. Beneath the rockery lies a spring, its waters crystal clear, with fish swimming happily. Lush bamboo surrounds the courtyard, its leaves rustling in the breeze, creating a refreshing and natural atmosphere.

There is also a small and exquisite pavilion in the yard, with a stone table and several stone benches inside, where people can rest and drink tea. Outside the pavilion are several plum trees, which are in full bloom at this time, like a beautiful painting.

Xifeng crossed the courtyard and entered the main room. The interior was elegantly furnished, its furniture crafted from the finest woods, exquisitely carved, and imbued with an antique charm. Several vibrant paintings hung on the walls, seemingly showcasing the unique and vibrant personalities of the household. These paintings, like windows, offered a glimpse into the inner world of their owners. Each painting was brimming with life and vitality, seemingly telling a moving story.

Xifeng walked to the window and opened it. A breath of fresh air hit her face. She took a deep breath, feeling the beauty of nature. Outside the window was a lush green garden filled with a variety of flowers, all colorful and dazzling. In the distance, green mountains and clear waters spread out, a picturesque scenery that was refreshing and delightful.

Xifeng sat at the table and opened her red lips softly: "An'er, bring the account book here." She nodded slightly, her eyes fell on the account book on the table, her eyes firm and confident.

Xifeng undoubtedly had no shortage of money. Not only did her grandmother leave her a substantial fortune before her death, but the private property her mother left her before returning to her hometown of Jinling alone was enough to support her well-off lifestyle. This wealth was her foundation, the very foundation of her family's standing.

Xifeng's mother, Jia, came from a distinguished background: the granddaughter of Jia Yan, a Ningguo official, the daughter of Jia Daihua, the governor of the Beijing garrison, and the sister of Jia Jing. This background earned Xifeng the spotlight from a young age and fostered her independence, determination, and perseverance.

Meanwhile, Xifeng was calculating her accounts while contemplating her future. She was about to turn fifteen, and according to custom, she would undergo her coming-of-age ceremony—the Jigui ceremony. Afterward, her family would undoubtedly formalize her marriage to Jia Lian. Xifeng had already prepared for this match, but she also had her own calculations. She understood the significance of marriage for a woman, and therefore, she must approach it with caution.

Xifeng knew that Jia Lian was not a good man, even though she had known him since childhood and had memories from a past life. Jia Lian was lustful and reckless, as evidenced by his secret marriage to his second wife, You Erjie, during the period of national mourning. If she didn't want to marry Jia Lian, she would need to find someone with a decent family background and strong abilities.

At the same time, Xifeng also began to consider her dowry. As the legitimate daughter of the Wang family, her dowry naturally could not be shabby. In addition to money, she also had to carefully select some precious jewelry, clothing, furniture, and other items. These items not only represented her status, but also guaranteed her future life.

Thinking of this, Xifeng couldn't help but sigh softly. She knew that marriage wasn't just about two people; it was also about uniting two families. In this process, she needed to balance various relationships and manage various conflicts. But no matter what, she wouldn't give up her happiness easily. She believed that as long as she worked hard enough, she could control her own destiny.