The Third Madame checked herself in the mirror repeatedly until she could find no fault, then picked up Miss Lin and headed towards the lakeside pavilion. She knew that once Master Lin got drunk, he would sit there, a fact only she and Steward Lin were aware of. Her years of favor were not just due to her beauty but also her wit.
Only when you truly understand a man can you know how to cater to him. If every time he sees you, you are exactly as he wishes, he will naturally think you are the best, even believing that you have genuinely fallen in love with him. That’s when you get what you want—power, or wealth. The Third Madam sat down with her daughter by the pavilion, waiting for nearly two hours, gradually losing patience, but thankfully, her daughter was not fussy. Finally, she saw two figures approaching in the distance, Mr. Lin and the Lin family steward. They were closer now. The Third Madam hastily adjusted her attire, tucked the stray hairs behind her ears, curtsied, and softly called out, “Master…”
Mr. Lin was in a good mood today; his second wife was virtuous, and she had found him a delightful companion who was now pregnant, so he had a few extra drinks. Upon first seeing the Third Madam, he seemed somewhat surprised: “Ping’er? Is that you?” Ping’er, that’s what he called her on their wedding night.
“I am Ping’er, Master. How are you?” The Third Madam smiled, trying to look more beautiful.
“What are you doing here…”
“I heard there was a lot of excitement in the mansion today, and thought this place would be quiet, so I brought my daughter here for some fresh air. If I’ve disturbed your enjoyment, I’ll leave immediately…” The Third Madam stood up as she spoke, ready to leave.
“Ping’er, no, that’s not what I meant…”
The initial success. “Master, it’s been a while since we last met…” The Third Madam helped Mr. Lin sit on the stone bench in the pavilion, speaking softly.
