Just then, Yi Zhonghai, who was inside his house, caught wind of the commotion outside. Sensing the faint sound of Xushu’s voice, he felt a spark of interest and hurriedly walked out, rice bowl in hand.
He had long considered himself the "patriarch" of the courtyard, feeling obligated to stick his nose into every matter, large or small. Following Yi Zhonghai’s appearance, other residents of the Middle Courtyard curiously wandered out as well. In an instant, a crowd had gathered.
Yi Zhonghai had not clearly heard what Xushu said to Mrs. Jia, but seeing Xushu return with an unfamiliar woman, he habitually prepared to step forward and lecture them, adopting his usual "patriarchal" posture.
Chapter 108