Published: August 25, 2025
Chapter 281: Everyone at the Qin Estate, Cousin Young Lady
After more than an hour, Han Li came out of the secret room with Qin Yan, reverting back to his rustic appearance.
Back in the living room, the head of the Qin Family immediately gave orders in front of the third madam. He instructed someone to prepare a clean residence in the back courtyard so that this young nephew Han Shizhi could live in the Qin Residence for a long time.
On the surface, the reason was legitimate: Master Qin wanted to properly cultivate this junior to repay the great kindness his predecessor had shown him long ago.
The third madam opened her mouth to speak but held back, saying nothing in opposition.
With her shrewd mind, she wisely discerned that Qin Yan had already made up his mind, leaving no room for others to object. And judging by her feelings, there was definitely something fishy between this honorable nephew Han and her husband.
But since Qin Yan did not share the details, she naturally would not do anything to cause displeasure or lose favor.
Still, she had some wild guesses. Her husband was treating this Han Shizhi with such seriousness—could it be that he was an illegitimate son born from his youthful indiscretions? Otherwise, why would he look so pale when reading the letter and then act so warmly afterward?
The ever-calculating third madam found this theory increasingly likely and felt a little upset inside. Yet, she maintained a casual expression on her face and grew even more friendly toward Han Li.
Thus, after repeated reminders from Master Qin, Han Li followed Qin Ping out of the hall again to inspect the residence and see if he was satisfied.
This time, Qin Ping’s expression was no longer stiff like before; instead, he was all smiles and kept calling him “Young Master Han” nonstop! He completely chose to forget his previous coldness toward Han Li.
Although Han Li feigned being overwhelmed with favor, inwardly he sighed at how skillful these mortal servants were at reading the winds. Their earlier arrogance followed by excessive deference was flawless, showing not a trace of awkwardness.
One didn’t know whether to say they had thick skins or had long been accustomed to this way of life.
Qin Ping led Han Li along a few twists and turns on a back courtyard path until they arrived at a quiet three-sided courtyard.
The surroundings were elegant and exquisite, unusually tranquil, which made Han Li nod secretly in approval. It was very much to his liking.
It seemed Qin Yan had indeed spared no effort in choosing a good place for him to stay.
“Young Master Han, this will be your residence! This is the best courtyard in the entire Qin Estate. Normally, only highly valued guests of the master could live here!” Qin Ping explained eagerly as he led Han Li into the yard.
Han Li scratched his head and smiled foolishly, seemingly at a loss for words.
Qin Ping, sensing this, tactfully changed topics: “Young Master Han probably hasn’t had dinner yet, right? I’ll have the kitchen send your meal over right away. Please wait a moment!”
Having said this, Qin Ping respectfully backed out of the courtyard and then turned to leave.
As Qin Ping gradually disappeared from view, Han Li smiled faintly and turned to push open the door of the house.
The décor inside matched the refined surroundings—equally tasteful and elegant.
After looking around, Han Li was even more pleased and wondered who had arranged such a place.
Qin Ping was indeed efficient! Before long, a housemaid came carrying a large bamboo box with the meal.
The aroma of the food made Han Li, who had been fasting to nourish the body for years, quite tempted. He didn't hold back and quickly devoured the delicate dishes and bowl of rice.
When Qin Ping came by and saw the remnants, he couldn’t help but smile, though he still respectfully invited Han Li to return to the main hall.
Master Qin wanted to introduce the people of the Qin Estate to Han Li.
…
When Han Li entered the living room for the second time, it was no longer just Qin Yan and the third madam present. There were about twenty to thirty men and women standing and sitting inside.