The tune of "The Song of the Pipa" was no easy feat, and Song Xi, having been coerced onto the stage, felt a flutter of panic.
Lou Yuming's inscrutable actions were like a blade hanging over her heart, filling her with dread and making it impossible to fathom his thoughts.
Song Xi didn't know how to respond, nor could she risk exposure. She had gambled all the hospital bills on this one night and dared not make a single mistake.
Her beautiful fingers danced across the strings, each note infused with sorrow, the thick and thin strings weaving a melody that echoed the sound of pearls falling onto a jade plate.
A flicker of astonishment flashed in Lou Yuming's eyes.
Seeing that his mood seemed to have improved, Shen Heping seized the opportunity to state his purpose.
"Mr. Lou, I heard from Elder Sun that you've returned to develop your career here and are looking for suitable projects. Do you have any thoughts..."
"Mr. Shen, please don't spoil the mood."
Shen Heping could only fall silent, his expression somewhat sheepish.
Song Xi's performance ended swiftly. Lou Yuming clearly felt she was still leaving something to be desired. As she approached, he curved his thin lips and teased, "Look closely, Xi'er, you bear a resemblance to someone I know."
The string that had just relaxed suddenly tensed again.
Song Xi watched him with a pounding heart, her fingernails digging into the pipa.
Seeing her frightened demeanor, a look of satisfaction appeared in Lou Yuming's eyes.
"I must be mistaken. The person I know only knows how to scratch, not play such refined music. Mr. Shen, you truly have a discerning eye for talent."
"You are too kind, Mr. Lou." Shen Heping took the chance to say to Song Xi, "Mr. Lou appreciates you so much, why aren't you coming over to serve him?"
After repeated prompts, Song Xi realized Shen Heping's intentions were not pure.
Yet, she obediently poured the wine and handed it over.
Sitting close, Lou Yuming caught the faint fragrance and hint of alcohol on her.
Song Xi's arm remained outstretched, growing weary, but he made no move, instead smiling and watching her without a word.
After a long pause, he finally spoke.
"Can you recite 'The Song of the Pipa'?"
Song Xi was stunned. "Yes, I can." Why the sudden question?
"With silver-inlaid hairpins, she struck the beat, shattering them,"
Song Xi's fingers trembled, thinking he expected her to complete the line so he could drink. She replied, "Her crimson skirt, stained with wine."
Lou Yuming cast a casual glance at the wine stain on her qipao. "My brother left to join the army, and our father died. Day and night, her beauty faded."
Song Xi closed her eyes. "In front of the door, few riders came, growing old... she married a merchant's wife..."
Lou Yuming let out a barely perceptible scoff. His gaze flickered towards Shen Heping before he finally took the wine cup.
He took a symbolic sip, as if to give her some face.
Song Xi's expression changed. She finally understood why Lou Yuming had chosen "The Song of the Pipa." He was mocking her.
But on what grounds?
Was it as an uncle educating his nephew's wife, or as a former patron?
Shen Heping, confused by their exchange, sensed the tension and whispered to Song Xi, "What are you talking about?"
"'The Song of the Pipa' by Bai Juyi," Song Xi replied, her tone a little cold. She had thought Shen Heping was learned, but he didn't even know this.
However, deep down, she felt a sense of defiance. Lou Yuming's constant prodding, like a cat playing with a mouse, was driving her to the brink.
So, she took the initiative and asked, "Mr. Lou, your mind is full of knowledge. Do you know the true meaning behind Bai Juyi's poem?"
Shen Heping shot her a warning glance, but she pretended not to see and spoke with a flourish.
"The pipa girl was forced by circumstances. Bai Juyi wasn't trying to humiliate her, but rather to speak up for her, and to relate to her own plight, lamenting that fellow sufferers of fate are found at the ends of the earth. Mr. Lou, with your vast knowledge, do you not even know this?"
Lou Yuming's eyes narrowed, and his aura suddenly turned stern.
"Song Xi!" Shen Heping's face paled. This little girl had been hesitant moments ago, but now she dared to be so bold. What had gotten into her!
He reprimanded, "Where do you think you are to speak to Mr. Lou like this! Apologize at once!"
Song Xi pursed her lips, remaining silent. Her dark, beautiful eyes met the ice in Lou Yuming's gaze.
It was as if she was telling him that even a cornered rabbit would bite.
Shen Heping was furious and raised his hand to discipline her, but before his palm could descend, Lou Yuming suddenly spoke in a low voice.