Compared to its former bustling atmosphere, the Cao family's glory days are over, though they still have some old acquaintances. When Xiang Wan arrived, several carriages were already waiting nearby.

As soon as Ji Meiniang stepped off the carriage, the servant at the door came to greet her.

"Grandma, Miss, you've finally arrived. Master has been talking about you ever since he got back. He's currently receiving guests in the front hall. I'll watch your carriage for you."

Ji Meiniang nodded, casually gave him some silver, and then led Xiang Wan through the gate of the Ji residence.

Every time Ji Meiniang came over in the past, seeing Old Madam Ji living alone in this huge courtyard with her maid, her heart ached. She wanted to move back to keep the old lady company, but she was stopped by her, who said that she was already married and there was no reason for her to run back to her parents' home all the time. She should just come and visit her often to show her filial piety.

The crabapple trees in the courtyard are just sprouting tender buds, full of vitality, which adds a touch of joy to people's mood.

Beyond a screen, cheerful laughter and chatter drifted from the main hall, creating a lively atmosphere.

After the servants announced his arrival, Ji Pengyu stepped out first.

The brother and sister looked at each other, their eyes already welling up with tears.

"Brother, you're back."

Ji Pengyu nodded; the calm and collected demeanor that came after the fading of worldly experience made his shoulders appear exceptionally broad.

The siblings should have had endless things to talk about when they first met, but when Xiang Wan saw the person walking out of the front hall, her brows furrowed.

In her previous life, the original owner caught a cold after falling into the water and was sick for almost a month, unable to leave the house, let alone host a welcome dinner for Ji Pengyu.

The fuse had already been lit at this point, but unfortunately, no one noticed.