The layout of the courtyard was simple, yet its zoning was clearly defined. There were separate rooms for making medicinal ointments and for living quarters, as well as dedicated storage spaces. A small inner yard occupied the center, with particular attention given to the soap-making area - since the soap required time to set, this section's compound extended significantly larger than the ointment workshop.

Lin He marveled at how Wen Ningxuan had considered far more details than she ever would have. Countless minor arrangements she hadn't even contemplated were already in place through his meticulous planning.

Accompanied by Zi Yu, Lin He toured every corner of the courtyard first stopping at the ointment-making quarters where they summoned all the young female attendants. With a stern expression, she repeated most household rules remained unchanged from their previous system. Yet certain adjustments were necessary - after all, living in town differed somewhat from domestic life.

From now on each girl would receive two days of rest per month. During these designated periods Zi Yu would accompany them to procure personal necessities while forbidding any unsupervised wandering or idle conversations with neighboring women. The strict rules had already been impressed upon every apprentice before their arrival, and they all responded obediently. Lin He then entrusted Zi Yu to assign work tasks immediately.

Zi Yu informed the apprentices today's session was cancelled, instructing them to organize supplies and prepare for tomorrow's full day of labor. Then Lin He accompanied her to the soap-making area where she addressed the women with less formality - since no proprietary secrets were involved here. The raw materials arrived daily under Zi Qing and Zi Yu's supervision while these workers performed only menial tasks.

She clearly outlined rest schedules, emphasizing that unsanctioned departures weren't permitted. On designated days carriages would transport them to and from the village gate during their leave period. This system absolved them of responsibility for any incidents occurring outside working hours. After exchanging greetings with Hong Xia and Hong Yun, Lin He requested they assist in organizing supplies before joining her for dinner at Zi Yu's residence that evening.

Hong Yun declined with a smile: "He'er, we won't be coming today. We're here to work and must abide by the same rules as everyone else. Let us visit your home during our monthly leave so no gossip arises."

Hong Xia added: "Yes, dear, you should speak to your mother about us visiting when we have time off to chat properly."

Lin He nodded in understanding - her aunts were being considerate. Unlike their previous domestic arrangements where workers could return home immediately after finishing tasks, the new factory system required constant supervision during round-the-clock operations.

After entrusting Hong Yun and Hong Xia with overseeing the female workers, Lin He returned to the estate with Zi Yu. As they exited through the courtyard gate, Wen Ningxuan's manservant was waiting nearby. Spotting them emerging, he hurried forward: "Miss Lin, Second Young Master awaits at the silver shop for you."

Lin He nodded and headed toward the silver workshop with Zi Yu in tow. The establishment wasn't far away - soon they arrived where attendants bowed respectfully as if greeting their owner, making Lin He feel somewhat awkward. After brief acknowledgments, the servant led her upstairs to Wen Ningxuan's private office.

It was the same room he'd used for reviewing accounts previously. The servant opened the door and stood guard outside while Zi Yu remained waiting at the threshold. Alone inside, Lin He found Wen Ningxuan examining records with furrowed brows. His expression softened into a warm smile as he stood upon seeing her: "Have you arranged all affairs regarding the factory?"

Lin He nodded: "Almost completed, I was just about to return for dinner."

"Wen Ningxuan approached her with a faint chuckle, lowering his head to look at her closely. "I'm also starving," he murmured.

Lin He felt her ears burn - had this man finally lost his mind? Was food not something he simply ate at home without needing permission from her first? Perhaps he was attempting to be...cute?

The thought of Wen Ningxuan's usually composed demeanor now coupled with childishness sent a shiver down Lin He. When she looked up into those deep, shimmering eyes - bright yet mysteriously alluring - the heat in them combined with their gentle smile made her cheeks flush crimson as she instinctively lowered her gaze.

Wen Ningxuan watched his little woman's face flush pink, her soft lips slightly pouting. The sight suddenly made his throat dry and body feverish. Heart pounding uncontrollably, he pulled her into his arms without thinking. When his mouth finally met hers, the initial contact was tender yet possessive - a slow exploration of her rose-pink lips.

Lin He didn't realize what was happening at first. But as Wen Ningxuan's head gradually closed in on hers, and his lips brushed against hers with cool gentleness sending electric shivers through her body, she instinctively wanted to lick her own lips. Yet he only continued suckling gently along the seam of her mouth.

A quiet laugh escaped Lin He - beneath this man's polished exterior lay an inexperienced youth fumbling with his first kiss. His eyes crinkled as if sharing that same revelation. When her tongue finally met his, she felt Wen Ningxuan stiffen slightly before tightening his embrace significantly.

After years of avoiding even basic social interactions with women, how could he possibly know anything about kissing? He simply wanted to savor the softness forever, until noticing her breath had grown uneven. With great reluctance, he gradually pulled away from those plump lips now flushed red.

As Wen Ningxuan held his slightly trembling woman in his arms, whispering laughter escaped him as he cradled her close once more. After a moment's hesitation: "It's getting late - shall I escort you to dinner?"

Lin He shot him an exasperated look before nodding. She was certain this so-called 'important matter' had been premeditated - how could they have only exchanged three sentences before he insisted on taking her back?

Wen Ningxuan chuckled again, tugging her hand toward the door where Zi Yu and the servant stood waiting. When their entwined hands appeared in view, Zi Yu's lips curved into a knowing smile though she remained silent. Lin He quickly withdrew her hand: "You may stay here. Purple Jade and I can return on our own. Go have your dinner."