Shen Lingwei was cast off by her husband, the top scholar Gu Yanzhi, for being “too common and earthy.” Adrift in the bustling streets, she makes a living again with her exceptional skill at blending fragrances. Gu Yanzhi, who abandoned her years ago, returns in disgrace, eyes red as he begs her to “lend him her cauldron.” The man who once sneered at her vulgarity is now utterly humble. But Xiao Jingyuan, who has always silently brought her hot soup at the alley entrance, steps in front of her when she's harassed. “I understand Madam Shen's fragrances.” With her former husband's pleas and Xiao Jingyuan's protection before her, whose teacup will her fingers, still fragrant with the “Love-Cutting Incense,” reach for?
