Serene Mercy Chapter Five

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“Mother, hearing you say that puts my mind at ease. Getting married today and wanting to come back tomorrow,” Su Xiu teased softly.

“On the third day you’ll come back, the third day for the bride’s return visit. Your father and I will be waiting at home. Hurry up and get ready; today you are the most beautiful bride!” Mrs. Wang tried to dispel her daughter’s unease with laughter.

Xiao Hong brought over a set of bright red wedding clothes and helped Su Xiu put them on. Mrs. Wang then helped her daughter with her hair, a customary tradition where mothers prepare their daughters for marriage. “One comb for a lifetime, two combs for a worry-free life, three combs…” As she combed, tears welled up in Mrs. Wang’s eyes. She deliberately looked away to hide them from Su Xiu.

“The peach tree’s blossoms are lush and bright,
The bride returns to a fitting home.
The peach tree’s blossoms bear abundant fruit,
The bride returns to a harmonious household.
The peach tree’s leaves grow thick and green,
The bride returns to a happy family.”

Today, Su Xiu’s marriage was like the peach blossoms described in the Book of Songs—her delicate face pale like peach petals, brows arched like crescent moons, though a faint chill lingered at their tips; her deep, black eyes sparkled with mystery beneath upward-tilted corners and fluttering lashes; a straight, elegant nose divided her flawless features, accented by a blush that seemed the finishing touch; her cherry-red lips whispered silent allure.

“Xiu’er, you look truly beautiful today. Let me help you cover your veil. Sit here patiently and wait for the groom,” Mrs. Wang said gently.

“Mother, I’m a bit hungry. Can I eat something to fill my stomach first?” Su Xiu was reluctant to have her veil covered yet—besides, Sun Pengcheng hadn’t arrived.

“All right, I’ll have Xiao Hong bring you some cakes to tide you over,” Mrs. Wang said tenderly.

“Thank you, Mother!” Su Xiu replied with a playful tone.

Meanwhile, at the Sun residence, Sun Pengcheng had also risen early and changed into a newly tailored red wedding suit. He was in better spirits than the day before, aided by the maids who helped him dress. Looking at his reflection, his face appeared much darker than before. Over the years of traveling with Sun Yu, he had learned much about business but had endured many hardships. The saying went: “Only through suffering can one rise above.”

His face was like polished jade—gentle, refined, and strikingly handsome. Despite the weathering from wind and sun, his features remained sharply defined and coolly handsome; beneath his sword-like eyebrows were slender, alluring eyes that shimmered with an enchanting light; his high nose brimmed with determination, his steady gaze leading him forward.

“Cheng’er, are you ready? We cannot delay the auspicious hour for the wedding!” Sun Yu began urging him.

“Father, I’m ready to depart,” Sun Pengcheng replied.

“Cheng’er, wait a moment. Put on this thick cloak; the weather looks like it will change. Your health isn’t fully recovered yet. There’s no carriage today—you must ride a horse. Eight sedan chairs will escort Su Xiu back.”

“I understand, Mother,” Sun Pengcheng took the cloak, put it on, and the wedding procession set off grandly. Lu Yiran sat alone in a room, silently distressed—her husband was now to be shared with another.

The procession was lively and festive, drawing much attention. After about the time it took for an incense stick to burn, snowflakes began to drift down. The coachmen urged Sun Pengcheng, “Young master, we must quicken our pace. If the snow worsens, we might not make it back in time.”

“All right, Old Zhang, tell the whole procession to speed up. We must be sure not to miss the timing.”

The snow thickened, large flakes swirling down. Sitting tall on his horse, Sun Pengcheng began to cough softly. The faster pace and the heavy snowfall took a toll on his still-recovering body.

“Young master, you’re not fully recovered. Since there’s no one around, why don’t you ride inside the sedan for now? You can get back on the horse when we’re near.”

“No, Old Zhang, I can manage. A groom cannot be behind his procession; we must follow tradition. We’ll arrive in half an hour,” he insisted.

Old Zhang muttered quietly, “As if a leaking roof couldn’t get worse—what a day.”

Inside, Su Xiu ate some cakes and watched the snow grow heavier outside. She worried about Sun Pengcheng. Such heavy snow—would he catch a cold? The thought chilled her, and she shivered.

“Xiao Hong, make more ginger sugar tea for the procession. It’s so cold outside. When they arrive, give each of them a cup. Also, prepare plenty of warm cakes and buns.”

Though it was her first marriage, Su Xiu understood the hardships of a procession on foot, especially since the Sun and Su families were not close.

“Why haven’t they arrived yet? So slow. They should be here by now…” Mrs. Liu was even more anxious than Mrs. Wang, eager to see Su Xiu married off quickly. The dowry from Su Jinran was no small matter, sparking jealousy in Mrs. Liu.

“Quiet, say less…” Su Jinran scolded firmly.

“Miss, Miss! The groom is here! Hurry and cover your veil!” Xiao Hong called from afar, hearing the procession’s drumbeats.

“Remember to give them ginger tea and cakes,” Su Xiu instructed, her heart beating faster than usual.

“Got it, Miss.” Xiao Hong was quick and clever, much appreciated by both Miss and Mrs. Wang.

At that moment, Sun Pengcheng arrived with the procession at the door. He dismounted, suppressing his cough.

“Son-in-law pays respects to father- and mother-in-law,” he bowed to Su Jinran and Mrs. Wang, bypassing Mrs. Liu, who rolled her eyes in anger. The Sun family’s influence overshadowed the Su family, and upon learning how Mrs. Liu had oppressed Su Xiu and her mother, Sun Pengcheng no longer took her seriously.

“Son-in-law, please rise and come in. We have prepared hot ginger sugar tea and snacks—eat well so you won’t be hungry on the way back,” Su Jinran greeted warmly.

“Thank you, father-in-law. I’ll go see Xiu’er now. Old Zhang, please have everyone eat and drink some hot tea,” Sun Pengcheng said before entering.

“Son-in-law, this way. The lady is this way,” Xiao Hong eagerly led him.

“Thanks, Xiao Hong.” It was the first time someone called her “Xiao Hong,” and she blushed, feeling that the groom truly considered her family.

“Son-in-law, you must treat our Miss well. Don’t let anyone bully her. She’s kind-hearted and straightforward—be good to her,” Xiao Hong advised as they walked.

“Don’t worry, Xiao Hong, I’ll cherish your lady for life,” Sun Pengcheng promised, coughing lightly.

“Son-in-law, are you catching a cold?” Xiao Hong asked with concern.

“It’s nothing,” he replied, brushing off his health, focused on Su Xiu.

“I’ll bring some ginger tea for you. You go ahead; the lady’s room is just ahead, first door on the left,” Xiao Hong said, noting the heavy snow and wanting to keep him warm.

“Thanks, Xiao Hong!” Sun Pengcheng quickened his pace toward Su Xiu.

“Su Xiu, Xiu’er, open the door…” Sun Pengcheng called outside.

“Where’s Xiao Hong?” Su Xiu opened the door, but the maid was nowhere in sight.

“She said she was bringing me some ginger tea,” Sun Pengcheng coughed again. Though he tried to hold it back, tears streamed down his face.

“Why are you crying? You should see a doctor,” Su Xiu worried, checking his forehead—it was not feverish.

“It’s nothing. I’m fine. What doctor on our wedding day? Do you want to curse your husband?” Sun Pengcheng gently embraced her, feeling comforted by her concern.

“Miss, son-in-law, here’s some food,” Xiao Hong called outside, holding cakes and ginger tea.

Sun Pengcheng released Su Xiu and moved to open the door. Su Xiu quickly sat by the bed.

After Xiao Hong left, Sun Pengcheng closed the door against the snow. He looked at Su Xiu in her wedding dress, dignified and beautiful.

“Xiu’er, do you know? I’ve waited so long to marry you. From the moment I first saw you, at your family dinner, I was smitten. I thought our marriage was just a transaction arranged by our elders, but now I understand what it means to truly like someone,” Sun Pengcheng seemed to be confessing his heart.

“Then… why do you always argue with me?” Su Xiu remembered their quarrels.

“To see if you cared for me,” he said with a cough.

“Hurry, drink the ginger tea Xiao Hong brought,” Su Xiu urged, patting his back.

Sun Pengcheng drank the tea at once, feeling warmth spread through him.

“Xiu’er, you’re truly beautiful today,” he said, eyes smiling, then kissed her forehead.

“Eat some cakes quickly. The snowstorm will be fierce on the way back. Don’t catch a cold!” Su Xiu blushed, unaccustomed to his kiss.

“Miss, son-in-law, are you ready? Master says we must leave soon. The auspicious day must not be delayed!” Xiao Hong called outside.

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“Xiao Hong, tell father and mother-in-law we’re coming out. Su Xiu and I will perform the farewell ceremony,” Sun Pengcheng instructed.

At the mention of farewell, Su Xiu’s heart ached. She had lived in her childhood home for over ten years and was reluctant to leave.

“The farewell is part of the wedding ritual. Once we’re married, if you want to return, I will accompany you to stay a few days. Don’t worry,” Sun Pengcheng comforted her, seeing through her thoughts.

“Thank you for understanding,” Su Xiu responded, looking at him sincerely.

“Nonsense! We’re married now; you can call me by a new name,” Sun Pengcheng teased.

Together, they left the bridal chamber and knelt before Su Jinran and Mrs. Wang, bowing three times. They each offered tea to their elders.

“Happy tea, happy tea. Daughter and son-in-law, please rise. From now on, you’re one family. Understand and tolerate each other—it’s not easy to come together,” Su Jinran advised with concern.

“Father-in-law, mother-in-law, rest assured. I’ve married Su Xiu, and I’m half your son now. I will cherish her and honor you both,” Sun Pengcheng promised.

“Enough, it’s late. They should be going back now; the snow is letting up,” Mrs. Wang said, taking Su Xiu’s hand and gently touching her cheek. “Time flies so fast—you’ve grown into a young lady. Live well with Cheng’er and don’t act like a child.”

The auspicious hour arrived. The wedding party shouted as Su Xiu covered her veil and, supported by Xiao Hong, sat inside the bridal sedan.

Sun Pengcheng mounted his horse, and the procession set off back to the Sun residence.

The midwinter cold bit fiercely, even inside the sedan. Xiao Hong walked beside the sedan.

Su Xiu offered her thick cloak to Xiao Hong. “You’re tired today. Wear this; it’s cold outside.”

“Miss, I’m fine. Walking keeps me warm,” Xiao Hong replied.

“I wonder if Sun Pengcheng is cold? I heard him cough earlier. Is he okay?” Su Xiu worried.

“Don’t worry. The young master is wearing a thick cloak too. I’ll go check for you,” Xiao Hong joked, running ahead.

“Ah, that girl…” Su Xiu sighed.

“Son-in-law, son-in-law…” “What is it, Xiao Hong? Is something wrong with Xiu’er?” Sun Pengcheng stopped his horse, anxiously asking.

“She’s just asking if you’re cold. I said I’d ask for her,” Xiao Hong explained.

“You see? Xiu’er cares about me, right?” “Exactly,” Sun Pengcheng could hardly believe it.

“Tell her her husband isn’t cold. With her care, I feel warm inside. Xiu’er, are you cold? Here, take this cloak,” Sun Pengcheng said, removing his cloak to hand to Xiao Hong.

“Young master, your health…” Old Zhang worriedly tried to stop him.

“I’m fine. Xiao Hong, give it to the lady,” Sun Pengcheng urged.

“Son-in-law, no need. You and Miss must be truly in sync. Miss wanted to give you her cloak. Wear your own. I’ll stay with Miss,” Xiao Hong said, then ran off.

“Young master, put your cloak back on. Don’t catch cold again!” “Alright, since Xiu’er’s not cold, I’ll put it on.”

“Miss, son-in-law says he’s not cold. He feels warm because you care so much.”

“Hmm,” Su Xiu didn’t quite know how to reply.

Over the days together, Su Xiu’s cold heart had begun melting bit by bit, though she still played hard to get.

Sun Pengcheng, though a wealthy heir, was diligent, responsible, kind, and compassionate. He didn’t flirt or fool around but was a bit petty and prone to overthinking—especially regarding Su Xiu.

Meanwhile, the procession had arrived at the Sun residence. Sun Pengcheng quickly dismounted, opened the sedan curtain, and gently took Su Xiu’s hand to help her out.

The Sun household was bustling with guests, resembling a small marketplace—proof of their wealth and status.

“The bride has arrived!” someone shouted. Everyone moved toward the entrance.

Sun Pengcheng led Su Xiu to the main hall, where Sun Yu and Mrs. Liu were seated, ready for the wedding ceremony.

With Old Zhang’s call of “First bow to Heaven and Earth,” the couple bowed outward; “Second bow to elders,” they bowed to their parents; “Third bow to each other,” the couple bowed mutually, accompanied by cheers and applause.

After the ceremony, Sun Pengcheng took Su Xiu to the west room—their bridal chamber—arranged by Lady Liu.

They sat on the bed, and Sun Pengcheng gently lifted the red veil from Su Xiu’s head.

“Xiu’er, you’re so beautiful today!” he praised.

“So you’re saying I used to be ugly?” Su Xiu teased, mimicking his tone.

“You were always beautiful, just more so today! Don’t imitate me.”

After sitting in the cold sedan for a long time, Su Xiu sneezed.

Sun Pengcheng wrapped her in his arms. “Are you cold? Speak up early; don’t let the chill get in. It would be miserable if you fell ill. I’ll warm you up. I’ll ask Mother to bring a brazier. Give me your hands.” Su Xiu leaned into him, feeling warm. Was this love?

He felt her hands. “Why are they so cold? Xiu’er, wait here. Xiao Hong, is she outside?”

“Xiao Hong, come in,” Sun Pengcheng called.

“What is it, son-in-law?” Xiao Hong entered.

“You stay with Xiu’er. I’ll get a brazier to warm the room. Don’t let her freeze!” Sun Pengcheng said before leaving.

Soon he returned with a brazier, followed by a maid named Huan’er.

Sun Pengcheng placed the brazier beside Su Xiu. “Xiu’er, warm your hands. The room will be warm soon. Huan’er is our household maid. You can call her Huan’er. If you need anything, ask her.”

“Second young mistress, if you need anything, come to me. I’ll help wherever I can,” Huan’er said, eyeing Su Xiu carefully.

“Just call her young mistress,” Sun Pengcheng told Huan’er. “How should we address Lady Lu Yiran?”

Huan’er’s tone was clearly provocative.

This exchange soured the mood. Huan’er was sharp-witted and had been placed here by Lu Yiran as a spy on Sun Pengcheng. Xiao Hong quickly realized this and resolved to rely on herself rather than Huan’er.

“Cheng’er, come out and toast the guests,” Sun Yu called anxiously.

“Son, don’t think you can bring home a beauty and neglect us drinkers,” some guests teased.

“Enough nonsense! Good food and drink won’t shut your mouths. Here comes Cheng’er,” Sun Yu protected Sun Pengcheng from the jests.

“Huan’er, come with me. Xiao Hong, take care of Xiu’er. Huan’er, remember this family name is Sun. Know what to say and not say with Lu Yiran,” Sun Pengcheng finally took charge.

“Yes, young master,” Huan’er’s previous arrogance turned to submission.

“Uncle Guo, I toast you for attending my nephew’s wedding,” Sun Pengcheng and Sun Yu took turns toasting. If it had been only Sun Pengcheng, he might have collapsed, but Sun Yu shielded him.

“Nephew, this toast is for you… Happy second marriage… Cheers!” Uncle Zhu was already drunk. Sun Pengcheng was annoyed but endured for the sake of his father’s business friends.

They smiled and endured until nightfall.

“Wife, I’m here…” Sun Pengcheng spoke with fatigue and a hint of alcohol. He seemed a little drunk.

“Son-in-law, slow down,” Xiao Hong steadied him as he staggered. After helping him inside, she waited nearby.

Su Xiu told Xiao Hong, “Why did he drink so much? Go get some sobering soup.”

“All right, Miss,” Xiao Hong hurried to prepare it.

“Xiu’er, I’m fine. I’m happy. Today we’re finally married. I think of you every day. From the day we got engaged, I’ve been smitten. I thought my marriage was just arranged, like a puppet controlled by my parents, but when I first saw you, I was lost,” Sun Pengcheng rambled drunkenly.

“Cough…” He broke off coughing again. “I saw you eating noodles with Zhao Chenxi and got jealous. Do you like me or Zhao Chenxi?” His gaze became stern and sorrowful. Su Xiu patted his back.

“What nonsense! Since I married you, I surely like you,” Su Xiu said firmly, though annoyed. Now was not the time to argue.

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Tears unexpectedly slid down Sun Pengcheng’s face.

“Son-in-law, Miss, I’ve brewed some sobering tea for you,” Xiao Hong said, entering with the tea.

Sun Pengcheng quickly wiped away his tears.

“Give it here. You go rest; I’ll take care of him,” Su Xiu said, concerned for Xiao Hong’s hard work.

“All right, Miss. You and son-in-law should also rest,” Xiao Hong said, closing the door behind her.

“Drink this sobering tea. Since we’re married, of course I like you! Stop overthinking,” Su Xiu said, feeding him spoonful by spoonful. As he sobered, she spoke gently.

“Promise me you won’t leave, okay?” Sun Pengcheng pulled Su Xiu close.

“We’re married now. How could I leave you?” Su Xiu comforted him and kissed his cheek. He was stunned.

“Xiu’er, you’re really beautiful today!” He kissed her cherry lips.

After their wedding night rites, Su Xiu rested her head on Sun Pengcheng’s arm as he held her gently.

“Have you eaten? I’ve been with guests all day and haven’t attended to you. I’ll see what the kitchen has and bring you some,” Sun Pengcheng suddenly remembered.

“Don’t worry. I’ve eaten. Xiao Hong brought me food. It’s late; you shouldn’t go out. Rest early,” Su Xiu said, burying her head in his arms and playfully pinching his nose, mouth, and face.

“Why pinch my face?” Sun Pengcheng, smiling, held her hand.

“Your hands are like little chicks’—eat more or my parents will scold me!” Su Xiu teased, kissing his hand.

“You’re a chatterbox and petty. Men should aim far and be magnanimous,” she pretended to scold.

“In what way? If it’s about love, I admit I’m petty. I like you, you like me. Isn’t that enough?” Sun Pengcheng argued confidently.

“What about Lu Yiran?” Su Xiu’s words struck him like a blow.

“We’re married now. Don’t mention her, okay? Marrying her wasn’t my choice. It’s...” Sun Pengcheng faltered.

“Enough. I understand,” Su Xiu cut him off, turning away. Sun Pengcheng coaxed her gently. Living under one roof with three people meant inevitable friction.

He embraced her from behind and tucked her in. “Sleep early. Tomorrow morning, we’ll get up early, and I’ll show you around our home.” He prepared to close his eyes.

“Talk to me a little more…” Su Xiu said, turning to him. But Sun Pengcheng already began to snore softly, worn out from illness and drinking.

Sun Pengcheng had truly been exhausted these days, even falling seriously ill before the wedding—unknown to Su Xiu.

Watching him sleep with furrowed brows, Su Xiu realized that beneath the polished exterior were hidden worries. She gently stroked his brow, as if soothing his troubles.

Everyone has their hardships; life isn’t always as glamorous as it seems.

Lost in thought, Su Xiu soon fell asleep. In her dream, she, Xiao Hong, and Sun Pengcheng were returning to the Su family in a carriage, laughing and talking. Suddenly, a huge serpent appeared, blocking their path.

“Get away! The serpent is getting closer. Sun Pengcheng grabbed a stick to fight it… Sun Pengcheng, run! It’s dangerous…” Su Xiu almost shouted in her dream.

“Miss, miss, knock knock…” Xiao Hong was at the door, shaking Su Xiu awake.

“It was just a dream, a false alarm,” Su Xiu quickly got up to open the door. The dream left her uneasy.

Strangely, Sun Pengcheng had risen early. The room was empty except for Xiao Hong’s entrance.

“Where did Sun Pengcheng go?” Su Xiu asked.

“He got up early to help Master manage the shop. But he told me not to disturb you and to let you sleep longer because of the cold,” Xiao Hong replied.

“Oh, but as the new bride, shouldn’t I get up early?”

“Isn’t that right? Early this morning, Huan’er came to tease Xiao Hong, saying Lady Lu Yiran got up early on her first day to serve tea to her in-laws, refined and proper; but you, second young mistress, rely on the young master and don’t respect the elders. It seems those from noble families understand propriety better,” Xiao Hong mimicked Huan’er’s tone for Su Xiu.

“Well, she has a point. You should have told me to get up earlier,” Su Xiu complained, knowing this was no longer her natal home. Besides Xiao Hong and Sun Pengcheng, no one would indulge her. Lu Yiran would certainly be her rival.

“Miss, don’t belittle yourself. The young master said you should rest more,” Xiao Hong defended her.

“All right, Xiao Hong. I’ll go greet Mother-in-law. You tidy up here. I know you mean well—you’re my good sister!” Su Xiu pinched Xiao Hong’s nose affectionately.

“I’ll take Miss to see the matriarch and great-grandmother. Yesterday, son-in-law had Old Zhang show me around; today, I can show you,” Xiao Hong said.

Su Xiu approached Lady Liu’s room, overhearing a conversation: “Mother, look at that little fox. It’s so late, and she’s still not up. I think she doesn’t respect you or father. The first day she marries in, and this is how she acts.” The speaker was Lu Yiran, eager for Su Xiu’s quick disappearance.

“Enough, Ran’er. She just married in and doesn’t know better. When Cheng’er returns, he’ll speak to her,” Lady Liu said, unwilling to cause a scene after the wedding.

“Mother, I’m here to pay respects. Are you in?” Su Xiu asked.

“Yes, come in,” Lady Liu replied calmly.

“She heard us,” Lu Yiran whispered to Lady Liu.

Lady Liu gave Lu Yiran a warning look, signaling her to stay silent and calm.

Su Xiu didn’t want to hear more and interrupted at a good moment.

“Xiu’er, just in time. Let me introduce you. This is Ran’er—Cheng’er’s eldest wife, a few years older than you. You two should get along like sisters, understand?” Lady Liu took both their hands, patting them gently with polite words.

“Hello, sister. I’m late arriving. Please forgive me if I don’t understand,” Su Xiu said to Lu Yiran.

“If you don’t understand, sister can teach you personally,” Lu Yiran said arrogantly, offering no way out.

“Thank you, sister,” Su Xiu replied quickly. She realized Lu Yiran was not simple—she only wanted to assert her place, not betray them outright. That was fortunate.

“Since you’re sister, I’ll personally teach you the household rules,” Lu Yiran said, intending to make things difficult.

“Thank you, sister,” Su Xiu replied, wise enough to handle the situation but eager to leave.

“Second young mistress, please come out,” Old Zhang’s voice called, clearly sent by Sun Pengcheng.

“Mother, sister, I’ll go now. Old Zhang must have something,” Su Xiu said, grateful for the reinforcement.

“Go ahead. Don’t delay,” Lady Liu answered.

“What’s the matter? We’re chatting with the younger sister, teaching her the rules!” Lu Yiran pressed Old Zhang.

“The young master is back. He wants the second young mistress to come to the bridal chamber,” Old Zhang reported truthfully.

“Can’t he come himself? You have to trouble Old Zhang?” Lu Yiran complained about Sun Pengcheng but dared not offend him.

“All right, Ran’er. They just married. Xiu’er, go with Old Zhang,” Lady Liu said. If she didn’t stop Lu Yiran, the quarrel would never end. If Sun Pengcheng knew, the consequences would be severe. Lady Liu knew her son well.

“All right, mother, sister. Su Xiu will take her leave,” Su Xiu said, glancing at Lu Yiran. Inside, she felt a spark of joy—finally out of that room—and looked gratefully at Old Zhang.