Red Mansion: Holding Space and Marrying Like the Sea

Mrs. Wang sat quietly in the center of the room, her mind restless, her needlework unmotivated. Her gaze drifted constantly toward the door, as if anticipating the arrival of someone or something. She recalled the day she had met Jia Yucun. His handsome face and gentle smile reminded her of her younger self. From that moment on, she knew she had to live her own life. The day after tomorrow, she would meet Jia Yucun at Daxiangguo Temple, a date she eagerly anticipated. She longed to live her life on her own terms and to spend quality time with him. A faint blush crept into her cheeks, and the corners of her mouth curled up slightly, like a young girl in love, sweetly yearning for her lover.

Just as Lady Wang was lost in her thoughts, a maid entered the room and whispered, "Madam, the master will be staying with Aunt Zhao tonight and will not be coming. Please go to bed early." Upon hearing this, Lady Wang gently waved her hand, signaling the maid to leave. She wasn't even angry that her husband wasn't with her tonight, but rather secretly delighted. She and Jia Zheng, who had been married for many years, had long been at odds with each other. Her husband disdained her worldly pursuits of material things, while she despised Jia Zheng for his selfishness and incompetence.

Mrs. Wang sighed softly, stood up, and slowly walked to the window. Her steps seemed heavy, as if a heavy burden weighed heavily on her heart. Moonlight streamed through the window lattice onto her face, illuminating her slightly weathered features. Her eyes revealed a hint of confusion and helplessness, the conflict and struggle within her heart leaving her bewildered.

She gazed quietly at the moonlight outside the window, her thoughts drifting back to the past. Back then, although she and Jia Zheng had their share of arguments, their feelings for each other were not as cold as they were now. They had hoped together that their eldest son would pass the imperial examination and enter the government, pursuing his ambitions; they had also hoped that their daughter would marry into a wealthy family and achieve social status. However, with the passage of time, everything had changed.

Jia Zheng has become increasingly selfish, focusing solely on his own interests while neglecting his family responsibilities. This deeply disappoints Lady Wang. She knows she no longer loves this man and even feels disgusted with him. However, facing reality, she has no choice but to endure this life.

Standing by the window, Mrs. Wang fell into deep thought. She realized that life wasn't always easy, and sometimes difficult decisions had to be made. Despite the pain in her heart, she decided to stay in the marriage. After all, besides being married in name only, she still had a pair of children to consider.

That morning, Madam Wang, once again, went out with her maid. As usual, they went to Rongxi Hall to pay their respects to the old lady. By the time they finished, it was almost noon. Returning to her room, Madam Wang hurried to her dressing table and began meticulously dressing. A delicate, five-phoenix hairpin adorned with pearls, adorning her head, accentuated her splendor. She wore a peach-colored, 100-flower-carved silk coat with silver squirrel motifs, a vibrant yet elegant touch. A scallion-green cotton skirt embroidered with gold accents accentuated her aura of wealth. Over her, she wore a blue satin grey squirrel coat, providing protection from the cold while adding a touch of elegance.

Zhou Ruijia had been with Madam Wang for many years, and as a bridegroom, she naturally dared not disobey her master's wishes. However, when she saw Madam Wang about to do something unacceptable in the secular world, she couldn't help but feel fear and worry, saying, "Madam, have you really made up your mind? Once you take this step, there's no turning back!" Madam Wang was silent for a moment, then firmly replied, "Rather than continue living a boring life here, why not give it a try? Don't worry, I'll be careful and no one will find out." She then looked deeply at Zhou Ruijia, her eyes revealing a resolute and courageous look. Zhou Ruijia reluctantly nodded, expressing her understanding and support. Although filled with fear, she understood that this was Madam Wang's choice, and she could only silently accompany and assist her.

By the time they arrived at Daxiangguo Temple, the sky was already ablaze with crimson clouds. Mrs. Wang first rested briefly in her reserved wing, then headed back to the hillside and sat in a pavilion awaiting Jia Yucun's arrival. She sat there quietly, her heart calm and expectant.

After about a cup of tea, someone suddenly covered Mrs. Wang's eyes from behind and asked mischievously, "Guess who I am!" This sudden action scared Mrs. Wang, but she quickly reacted, and the corners of her mouth rose slightly, revealing a gentle smile.