Chapter 400 Changing Feng Shui
Chapter 400 Changing Feng Shui
It seems that the Tristan family is indeed still shaken by the endless stream of "minor accidents" and "unpleasant experiences" over the past few months.
They've invited priests to their home before, but the same "minor accidents" still keep happening.
They had heard of Liu Lingyin's claims about "feng shui fine-tuning," but they didn't know any Chinese masters in this field!
Regardless of whether Liu Lingyin could resolve the issue, the fact that she could say the "minor accident" started after the renovation of the family's courtyard already earned the Tristan family's trust to a great extent.
For them, Liu Lingyin's eloquent speech was nothing short of a timely "lifeline".
Regardless, since it's a possible solution, we should definitely give it a try. What if it happens to solve the problem?
The romantic French also possess a pragmatic and efficient side, especially when it comes to matters concerning the peace and well-being of their families and their own comfort.
No sooner had Liu Lingyin finished speaking than Mr. Bart stood up first, elegantly rolling up the sleeves of his expensive shirt: "That makes sense! Now that we've found a possible cause, we should resolve it as soon as possible."
Tristan, Mrs. Bart, and Emily nodded in agreement without hesitation, and without caring that they were still wearing the silk dresses they had carefully chosen to receive the guests, Mrs. Bart and Emily quickly changed into flat shoes.
The faces of the family of four showed a sense of impatience and urgency; they were truly frightened by the occasional "little accidents."
“The tools are all in the garden shed; we can just go there,” Mr. Bart commanded confidently.
Everyone nodded and went together to the garden shed to get the tools.
Three well-dressed, handsome men and beautiful women who seemed to have little to do with soil or physical labor, plus a sunny and energetic Allen, quickly got ready—Mr. Bart carried a small gardening shovel, Allen held a spade, and Mrs. Bart and Emily put on gardening gloves and brought any other necessary carrying tools.
Although Tristan's arm was in a sling and he couldn't do heavy physical labor, he actively stayed by his side, helping to pass tools or lend a hand with his uninjured hand.
Only Liu Lingyin, who had just picked up a pair of unused gloves and wanted to join in, was stopped in unison by everyone present.
"No, no, no, Bell Sound, you can just stand there and give directions!" Emily quickly waved her hand.
“We’ll do this rough work. You’re our ‘commander-in-chief,’ we can’t let you do it.”
Mrs. Barthes gently but firmly took the gloves from her hand.
Allen, being the older brother, didn't hold back and humorously gestured, "With your small frame, the time it would take to give you space is enough for us to dig a few more shovelfuls of dirt, maybe even half a square meter. To make us more efficient and finish sooner so everyone can relax, you should just watch from the sidelines."
Seeing Liu Lingyin pout slightly because she was criticized for being small, everyone couldn't help but chuckle.
Tristan smiled and led her to a white lounge chair in the garden: "Just sit back and supervise. Tell us where things need fixing."
Seeing the group of people who had instantly reached a consensus and were determined, Liu Lingyin had no choice but to raise her hands in a gesture of surrender, sit down, and say with a wry smile, "Alright, alright, I'll listen to your advice. I'll take responsibility for 'talking without lifting a finger' and guarantee precise guidance."
Under the bright sunshine, a lively yet orderly "micro-renovation" began in the Tristan family's garden. Following several key points pointed out by Liu Lingyin:
That newly transplanted ornamental tree, whose location was a bit "out of place"—dig it up! Carefully transplant it to the corner that Liu Lingyin specified, a corner that better "gathers and retains energy" and does not affect the sunlight.
That patch of flowers that seemed a bit cramped—move it! Move some of it to the sides to make the view and airflow more open.
The shallow pit that had been left unfilled before—fill it! Allen swung his shovel and quickly filled it with fresh soil, making it flat and firm.
…………
Everyone worked with great enthusiasm, even with a sense of ritual, as if they were "breaking free of bad luck." Sweat soaked their foreheads, and their expensive clothes were stained with a little dirt, but no one minded. Tristan lends a hand at just the right moment, and the atmosphere becomes unexpectedly harmonious and pleasant.
Whether it was a strong psychological suggestion or the change in environment was indeed affecting perception, when the major changes were completed and everyone stopped to rest, Mr. Barthes took a deep breath, looked around, and said somewhat uncertainly, "Strange, it feels like... the air seems to be circulating a bit more? And it looks much better."
“I feel the same way,” Mrs. Barthes nodded. “Before, when I entered the house, I sometimes felt a little heavy for no reason, but now it feels much lighter.”
Emily stretched her shoulders: "That's right! It's that indescribable, slightly awkward feeling, but it seems to have faded a lot."
Liu Lingyin smiled without saying a word. The effects of feng shui adjustments, especially these subtle adjustments targeting obvious "disharmony," can sometimes be perceived quite quickly, particularly for those who are sensitive or whose luck has been low recently.
The real "little surprise" happened a little later. Everyone went back to their rooms to wash up and change out of their dusty clothes. Afterward, as usual, Mrs. Barthes and Emily went to the kitchen to prepare some simple refreshments and fruit.
In the past, this was usually a peak time for "minor accidents": slipping unexpectedly, making a mistake while cutting fruit, or dropping a washed plate...
But at this moment, everything is going exceptionally smoothly.
Emily deftly prepared the vegetables, the knife striking the cutting board with a light, rhythmic sound; Mrs. Barthes took the baked pastries from the oven, the plates moving steadily; and she walked with an unusual sense of groundedness...
Emily was stunned when she perfectly placed the last fruit salad into the crystal bowl without any of the usual mishaps of "slipping," "splashing," or "knocking over the spice jars." A surge of indescribable excitement and relief welled up inside her.
She put down her bowl, turned around abruptly, rushed out of the kitchen, and, to the astonishment of everyone in the living room, tightly hugged Liu Lingyin, who was chatting with Tristan and Allen!
"Waaaah! My darling Lingyin! You're like a fairy descended from heaven!" Emily's voice choked with emotion.
"You have no idea! I've almost developed kitchen PTSD from being scared out of my wits lately! Every time I go out to eat, I encounter all sorts of unpleasant things. Either the waiter spills sauce on my new dress, or the next table is arguing and it affects my appetite. I've lost so many beloved clothes, ruined so many dining experiences, and lost face so many times!"
After that, I was too afraid to go on dates! The chef was on leave, and Tristan wasn't home, so I had to bite the bullet and cook at home myself... I kept cutting my fingers or dropping plates; every time I went into the kitchen, I was terrified! Why didn't I meet you sooner?!
The Barths also came over, their faces showing deep sympathy and immense relief, nodding repeatedly.
Mrs. Barthes remarked, "Indeed, ever since I followed the instructions to make the adjustments, everything feels so much smoother. That constant anxiety of being on edge, afraid of making a mistake, has suddenly disappeared."
“Ms. Liu, the changes you’ve brought are not just environmental. You’ve brought ease and peace back to our home. Thank you so much. We know this custom, so please accept this token of our appreciation. We hope you won’t find it too little.”
Mr. Barthes looked at Liu Lingyin with gratitude and amazement in his eyes, and as he spoke, he handed her an envelope with both hands.
Liu Lingyin felt a little shy being hugged by Emily, but she was also genuinely happy for them.
The living room was filled with a warm sense of gratitude and joy. Emily's hug and barrage of "accusations" made Liu Lingyin a little embarrassed, but her heart was warmed. She gently patted Emily's back, and after the other woman's emotions had calmed down a bit, she blushed slightly and sincerely said:
“Sister Emily, Mr. Bart, Madam, you really don’t need to be so polite. I’m especially happy to be able to help and to see you all looking relaxed and happy.”
She turned her gaze to Tristan, who was watching all this with a smile: "Besides, Tristan and my brother are such good friends, and he's taken good care of me in England. We're all looking out for each other, so there's no need for all the thank yous. We don't need to be so formal, especially since I'm getting paid for this."
Liu Lingyin knew what was in the envelope, but she didn't refuse. She naturally reached out and took the envelope without opening it, putting it directly into her backpack. No matter how much it contained, the sentiment was what mattered.
If it's just a small amount, we can reduce contact in the future. If it's a large amount, she'll donate a lot, which is also a good deed for them.
Liu Lingyin's sincere and unpretentious actions and words flowed like a gentle stream, soothing the hearts of the Tristan family. Their gazes towards Liu Lingyin held not only gratitude and amazement, but also a deep sense of affection and tenderness.
Liu Lingyin did take the money, but she could actually get things done! Many people take money but can't get anything done, and even more take money but can't find anyone to do the job! So, even though Liu Lingyin took the money, they still owed the other party a debt.
Mrs. Barthes stepped forward and gently took Liu Lingyin's hand:
“Good boy, you’re right. Tristan and Allen are best buddies, like brothers. You also treat Tristan like your own brother, so we’re practically family. We won’t stand on ceremony then. But we’ll remember this friendship. Whenever you come to France, this will be your home in Paris. You’re always welcome!”
“That’s right.” Mr. Bart nodded, regaining his usual refined and witty manner, but his eyes were exceptionally gentle. “It seems that our Tristan’s eye for making friends is as excellent as his tennis skills.”
Tristan, meeting his family's approving gazes, smiled and winked at Liu Lingyin: "Looks like my title as 'older brother' has been decided right here and now? Feels pretty good."
Allen smiled proudly beside her, once again feeling proud of his sister's abilities.
A relaxed and cheerful atmosphere returned. Emily seemed to suddenly remember something, her eyes lit up, and she grabbed Liu Lingyin's hand, asking, "By the way, Lingyin! Can you do me a favor?"
"Hmm? What kind of help? Tell me first." Liu Lingyin asked curiously.
Emily was a little embarrassed, but mostly expectant: "Look, our house's 'feng shui' is better now, and I feel like I've 'come back to life' again, I'm not so worried anymore. I... I actually have a date that was arranged a long time ago tonight, but I've been trying to cancel it because I'm feeling so bad. Now I want to go! But I'm also a little worried... what if something unlucky happens again?"
She paused, a slight blush rising to her cheeks. "Besides, I haven't been in the mood to dress up lately, and I don't know what to wear... Lingyin, could you give me some 'advice'? And... could you also give me some 'good luck'?"
This request made everyone laugh.
Mrs. Barthes joked, "It seems our Emily has truly regained her vitality."
Mr. Bart then feigned seriousness: "Well, it's time to test whether our new 'aura' can really ward off bad luck."
Tristan teased his sister, "Looks like someone's date is finally over."
Liu Lingyin was amused by Emily's request and readily agreed: "Of course! Although I can't guarantee that we can avoid all accidents, we can choose an outfit that makes you feel most confident and comfortable, and pair it with some small items that can calm and uplift your mood. Sometimes, a good state of mind is the best 'lucky charm'."
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