I wanted to raise my head and take a look at Big Brother, but I was afraid there were others around him. Feeling a bit at a loss, I tugged on Cui Cui's clothes beneath the table. It seemed that Cui Cui understood my worries, as she reached out under the table and held my hand, saying, "Young Master Yu is just joking. Your acquaintance must be someone extraordinary. How could they come to a place like ours, which is so dull and boring?" Her voice was as usual, with a hint of allure and self-mockery. However, she held my hand even tighter, and I could even feel her arm trembling slightly.

"Apologies for any inconvenience caused, as this humble one's acquaintance has always been playful. A few days ago, this person sneaked away and has not returned since. The young lady who was just playing the qin resembled my acquaintance quite closely. I wonder if the young lady could allow me to meet with them?" Big Brother's voice was, as always, pleasant to hear. I could no longer pay attention to Cuicui and lifted my head, locking gazes with Big Brother in that instant. I was stunned. Big Brother appeared even thinner than before, and his eyes didn't possess the same vitality as they once did. I felt a slight twinge of self-blame in my heart and cleared my throat, calling out to Big Brother.

"Aying, it's really you! Brother has finally found you. Come, let's go home together." He was very excited when he saw me and came over to hold my hand. This was the first time I had seen such an emotional expression on my eldest brother's face. He was usually reserved and polite, never showing much of his feelings. It was the first time I realized how highly he regarded me in his heart.

Speaking of being able to return to the Shangshu Mansion and leave this troubled situation, I should be happy, but when I look at Cuicui in front of me, her white clothes fluttering in the wind, I just can't feel any joy. It seems that Cuicui understands my thoughts as she smiles and says, "Aying, obediently go home with Master Yu. This place is not suitable for you after all."

Cui Cui's smile was as bright and beautiful as ever. I averted my gaze, not wanting to look at her anymore, because I was afraid that if I saw her, I wouldn't want to leave. I don't even know what kind of feelings I have for Cui Cui, I just enjoy being with her so much. Perhaps she is the only person who has brought warmth to my life in these days.

After bidding farewell to Cuicui, my eldest brother redeemed my body and found me a carriage. I knew that his purpose in doing so was to preserve the reputation of the Shangshu Manor and to protect my honor. The carriage quickly arrived at the Shangshu Manor. Standing in front of the vividly painted vermilion gate that had repeatedly appeared in my memories, my emotions were indescribably complex. I had never dreamed that I would be able to return here. The feeling of coming home also managed to alleviate some of the unpleasantness of parting ways with Cuicui.

In the dark of night, the scarlet lacquered gate in front of me seemed extremely unreal. Big Brother appeared by my side without me noticing and asked, "Aying, why aren't you going in? Father is still waiting for you." I nodded and reluctantly snapped out of my thoughts, following Big Brother as we entered the familiar gate.

The Shangshu Mansion seemed unchanged at all. The flowers and grasses were exactly the same as when I left. Eldest Brother led me through countless pavilions and towers, finally stopping in front of a room. I knew this was Father's study, the place I used to dislike the most. Whenever I made a mistake, Father would grab me by the collar and drag me here to reprimand me harshly. But now that I have returned, there is an indescribable sense of anticipation. Perhaps it is because I am about to reunite with Father after such a long time.