Chapter Twenty-Three: Offering Incense

Spring Grass had already returned inside and prepared the tea, handing a cup to Xu Zimo. As soon as Xu Zimo tasted it, he spat it out, exclaiming, "It's nothing but tea dregs!"

Xu Ruojin could offer no explanation and could only glance at Madam Huang.

Madam Huang managed a strained smile. "Second Miss's courtyard is still under renovation. Not everything is complete, but these deficiencies will soon be remedied."

"Ah, this room is even more dilapidated. My efforts here have nowhere to shine." Still broken!

Xu Ruojin’s mind conjured up the image of the cold-faced man again. She shook her head, quickly banishing the figure.

Xu Zimo felt the chair beneath him creak and groan, making him uneasy. Rising to his feet, he couldn’t be bothered to ask Madam Huang about her plans. Instead, he turned to Xu Ruojin. “Second Sister, I’ll come back once your place is fixed. If there’s anything you’re lacking, take it from my courtyard. I have plenty of treasures stored away…”

“But those belong to Third Brother. How could I just take your things?”

“It’s not you taking them—I'm giving them to you. Besides, we’re siblings; who’s counting?”

Today, Xu Zimo was genuinely moved by his sister’s generosity. Moreover, they had their little secret, sealed with a pinky promise, and he was eager to prove himself.

Yet, Xu Zimo’s magnanimity made Madam Huang’s heart ache. The amount Third Young Master wasted every year was incalculable; if the Lady heard such talk, she’d surely be furious.

Xu Ruojin hadn’t