“But sometimes, even those who try to avoid the world can’t escape it. It’s both a blessing and a curse that the princess is pregnant with the prince’s first child,” Granny Liu added.

"I understand everything you're saying, Granny. That's why I've been walking on thin ice, being extremely careful," said Madam Su. Having spent time with Granny Liu, she felt that Granny Liu was genuinely kind to her, and therefore held Granny Liu in high esteem and trusted her implicitly.

"It's good that you understand, Princess. The concubine has already sent some clothes, and now she's sent this as well. You've received such a favor, so you should naturally reciprocate. Otherwise, you'd be showing a lack of manners," Liu Mama reminded her.

"Your suggestion is right, Madam Su. I was just thinking about whether I should go and see the Consort. To be honest, I haven't paid my respects to her since she entered the household, which is truly impolite," said Madam Su.

Because Xueying was suppressed by the main wife as soon as she entered the mansion, and the people in the mansion were used to bullying the weak, they were not very respectful to the East Courtyard. Even Madam Gao and Madam Su did not go to greet Xueying.

“If Princess is feeling well, she can go out and move around. It’s not necessarily good for the baby if she stays indoors all the time,” said Granny Liu.

A few days later, Madam Su, supporting Mei Ruo's hand, brought some small embroidered items to the East Courtyard.

Xueying was informed by her maid that Madam Su had arrived, so she hurriedly came out to greet her personally.

"My sister is pregnant now, how did this happen?" Xueying took Su's hand and asked with concern.

"Granny Liu told me to walk around more, and I happened to be walking through the garden. The air was fragrant and the birds were singing, which was a good way to get some exercise. I've been meaning to come and pay my respects to the concubine for a long time, but I'm so sorry for being so impolite," Madam Su said with a smile.

"What are you saying, little sister? Come inside with me quickly," Xueying said.

The fact that Su came meant that she had accepted her kindness and was willing to befriend her. This was something that made Xueying very happy.

The two chatted and laughed all the way, and soon entered the main house.

After the host and guests were seated, a maid was brought out to serve tea.

“Sister, this place is so peaceful and quiet. I’m a little embarrassed to show off my embroidery, which is rather commonplace,” said Madam Su, looking around.

The furnishings in the room were simple, yet not shabby. Su Shi was someone who appreciated simplicity and refinement.

“Sister, let me see it,” Xueying said. “I think you’re quite clever.”

Su took out what she had embroidered herself and handed it to Xueying to see.

This is a small sachet made of very fine satin fabric, which is light green, and embroidered with several lotus flowers and leaves in different shades of green silk thread.

"This sachet my sister made is so beautiful, could you give it to me?" Xueying asked.

“If the concubine finds her agreeable, Lü Fu is truly flattered,” said Madam Su.

“Of course I like it. Your female workers are very good,” Xueying exclaimed.

"Compared to the concubine, she's nothing. The little clothes she makes are truly exquisite," said Madam Su.

For some reason, she enjoyed talking to Xueying. Although Lady Gao also had a close relationship with her and had warned her not to associate with the concubine to avoid offending the principal wife, Lady Su felt that Xueying seemed approachable and more friendly than the principal wife.

“Sister Su, how about I show you around here? There’s a small garden behind the courtyard, with lots of flowers and plants. Perhaps it can serve as inspiration for your embroidery,” Xueying said.