Chapter 1933: Chapter 984: Flatteries (2)
"Are you two heading out today?" After discussing a few matters, Lian Shouxin asked Lady Zhang and Lian Manman.
"I have no errands today, so I’ll stay home," replied Lady Zhang, then asked Lian Manman, "Manman, are you going out?"
"I’m not going out either," thought Lian Manman, replying, "We just returned from Thirty Mile Camp, and there are some things to clear up at the house here. I’ll visit the Shen Family eventually, but there’s no rush today. Brother, please help me inquire when the Ninth Miss and Tenth Miss will be free."
"Alright," Wu Lang agreed.
Since Wu Lang was hurrying to take Xiao Qi to the Shen Mansion, Lian Manman quickly returned to her room, accompanied by several maids, to divide the things brought back from the village into several portions. Two of these are for the servant accompanying Wu Lang, along with a note from Lian Manman, to be sent to the Shen Mansion. Other portions are gifts for a few lady friends with whom Lian Manman is on good terms, including Qin Ruojian.
Though Qin Ruojian and Wu Lang were engaged and needed to avoid each other, Lian Manman was already acquainted with Qin Ruojian, and they were friends, so some interactions continued as usual.
Once everything was sorted out and arranged to be delivered, Lian Manman went to sit in Lady Zhang’s room. The steward’s wives were already waiting outside, knowing that Lian Manman was now free, and eagerly approached to report. After Lian Manman and Lady Zhang took care of everything one by one, it was already two quarters past the initial hour of the day.
A little maid served freshly baked snacks and a pot of steaming fragrant tea. Lady Zhang and Lian Manman sat across each other at the table on the Kang, leisurely drinking tea and enjoying snacks.
"The pastry chef recommended by Mr. Loo is truly great," Lady Zhang praised after having the snacks, "such variety and so delicious. I’ve gotten used to these and find the ones from the shop less appealing... I noticed your maternal grandmother likes them too. When she visits in a few days, let’s have the kitchen make all the pastries they’re capable of, so she can taste them."
This visit to Thirty Mile Camp, Lian Manman had specially taken some of the pastries made in their kitchen home. Lady Li and Zhang Qingshan found them delicious, leading to Lady Zhang’s comment.
"Certainly," Lian Manman said, "Mother, next time we return to Thirty Mile Camp, if we stay longer, let’s bring the pastry chef back with us. We can build a few stoves in the old house’s kitchen just for him."
"That sounds good," Lady Zhang nodded in agreement.
The two chatted idly, finished their tea and snacks, and were about to take up their needlework when a little maid came in to report that Yan Daopo had arrived.
"... She’s waiting outside, wanting to pay her respects to the lady. The maid said you’re busy, but she asked to check if you have time to see her."
After reporting, the little maid stood by, awaiting instructions from Lady Zhang and Lian Manman.
"She’s certainly prompt with her visits," Lian Manman huffed lightly.
"She relies on this for her livelihood; it’s necessary for her," Lady Zhang said, "and she knows how to act. Since we have time, let’s let her in. She’s come by a few times in the days we’ve been home and we shouldn’t be too cold towards her, lest people say we’re putting on airs."
Lady Zhang’s words meant she wanted Yan Daopo to be let in.
"I have something to tell her," explained Lady Zhang, seeming worried that Lian Manman might be displeased, "Your third aunt’s matter, I’ve entrusted to her. Now your third aunt has changed her mind, so I need to inform her, lest she wastes her effort."
"Then let her come in," Lian Manman agreed reluctantly, nodding. Lady Zhang was indeed the mistress of the household, and given what she said, it wasn’t appropriate for Lian Manman to argue. Although she didn’t like Yan Daopo, the woman had influence among the female relatives across the city and acted respectfully whenever in front of them.
The little maid went out, and shortly returned with Yan Daopo.
Yan Daopo entered, face beaming with smiles, and promptly bowed to Lady Zhang and Lian Manman, repeatedly greeting them.
"... I heard your family has returned, so I’ve rushed over to pay my respects. Seeing the lady and Miss looking well, I’m relieved. It’s not that I’m flattering, but after not seeing the lady and Miss for a few days, I missed you," Yan Daopo said warmly, sincere in her words.
Lady Zhang, with her warm and affectionate nature, was deeply touched by Yan Daopo’s sincere attitude, and quickly invited her to sit and talk. Yan Daopo, perceptive, seeing Lian Manman present, didn’t dare sit on equal terms with Lady Zhang, instead took a seat on the footrest next to the edge of the Kang.
"Madam, your forehead is shining with joy, you must have had a successful trip. How are your nieces and nephews?" asked Yan Daopo, quietly measuring Lian Manman with her eyes, then smilingly conversing with Lady Zhang. This time, Lian Manman family went to Thirty Mile Camp mainly to assist with Zhang Caiyun’s childbirth, and this was no secret, with Yan Daopo being a frequent visitor.
"Thanks to your blessing," Lady Zhang replied smilingly, "They’re all well, very well."
The two continued to chat about Zhang Caiyun and the child, with Lady Zhang speaking happily, and Yan Daopo continuously echoing compliments.
"Madam, you are truly blessed, just looking at your children tells it all. Anyone associated with you flourishes, not to mention actual relatives," Yan Daopo complimented, sneaking another glance at Lian Manman.
...
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I haven’t been feeling well these past days, couldn’t write extra content; hoping to feel better tomorrow, fingers crossed. The story is nearing its end, so those who’ve been saving up Chapters can start reading; it fits the schedule perfectly. (To be continued. If you like this work, please visit Qidian (qidian.com) to cast your recommendation votes, or monthly votes, your support is my greatest motivation. Mobile users, please visit m.qidian.com to read.)
