As the afterglow of the setting sun fills the Jiang residence, the family gathers in the main hall to share the warm time of dinner.
Jiang Wenbai, the second master of the Jiang family, looked between his son and daughter-in-law. Seeing their deep affection and harmonious relationship, his heart was filled with relief. He stroked his beard gently, and the smile at the corner of his eyes became more intense.
After dinner, the servants respectfully served tea. Jiang Wenbai took a sip and then slowly said to his son, "Now that you've started a family, your mother and I can finally put our minds at ease. We've discussed this for a long time. This time, I'm going back to Shu City to teach, and your mother has decided to come with me."
Upon hearing this, Mrs. Qiao smiled gently and nodded in agreement, "Your father often mentioned the customs and people of Shu City, and I have long been yearning for it. As the master's wife, it is only natural for me to go to the training ground to explore it all."
When Xue Huichun heard that her parents-in-law were about to go on a long journey, she couldn't help feeling surprised and uneasy.
She had just started working there and was indeed a little overwhelmed by this sudden news.
Aunt Sun, observing her from the side, naturally saw her uneasiness. So she gently comforted her, "Chun'er, I didn't mention this earlier because I didn't want to worry you."
Jiang Lun also sensed his wife's emotions. He gently held her hand and offered her firm support. "Last time, Father went to Shu City alone, and Mother was a little disappointed that she couldn't go with him. Plus, we needed to prepare for our wedding, so Mother stayed in the capital."
"But this time, mother is determined not to let father go on the journey alone." His voice was gentle and firm, like a warm current, slowly flowing into Xue Huichun's heart, making her feel unprecedented peace of mind and strength.
Mother-in-law Qiao gently signaled to the old nanny beside her, and soon the nanny came over with a tray. On the tray were two large bunches of keys to the Jiang Mansion's storehouses and boxes, shining with a cold luster.
"I'll leave these to you." Qiao said, as if a heavy burden had been lifted off her shoulders. She easily picked up the teacup and took a sip.
Xue Huichun looked at the two heavy bunches of keys in front of her, and a trace of surprise flashed across her face.
Aunt Sun added, "We also have a set of keys to our main house. You'll be keeping them safe from now on. This way, we won't have to send people to both ends."
Sun was worried about her daughter Jiang Shuxiu who was about to give birth, and her son-in-law Xue Yuanchu was not in the capital. Although the old lady of the marquis's mansion would take good care of him, as his mother, she would still go to accompany and take care of him more often, and naturally she could not take care of the affairs of the mansion.
What's more, as the daughter-in-law of two families, Xue Huichun would always have difficulty in handling household chores if she was suppressed by her aunt.
Jiang Lun gently held her hand hidden in her sleeve, giving her silent encouragement.
Xue Huichun no longer hesitated. She shook Jiang Lun's hand back, then let go and stood up.
For a new bride in a large house, being able to manage household chores is undoubtedly a recognition of her status in her husband's family.
Back then, after my eldest sister-in-law married into the Marquis's Mansion, it took her almost a year to take over the power of housekeeper from Hong Yingrong. This was envied by countless daughters-in-law and brides from wealthy families in the capital at that time.
You know, some old ladies in some families don't even hand over the power of the rear house until they die.
Her mother-in-law handed over the keys just the day after she got married. Although her mother-in-law was about to travel far away with her father-in-law, she felt both honored and responsible that even her aunt trusted her so much.
"Thank you, aunt and mother, for your appreciation. I will do my best and fulfill my duties." Her voice was firm and powerful, revealing her unquestionable determination.
Mrs. Qiao saw all the intimate little actions between her son and daughter-in-law, and the smile on her lips became even brighter.
She was looking forward to becoming a grandmother the next time she returned to the capital.
Xue Huichun and Jiang Lun returned hand in hand to their courtyard. The maid had already prepared hot water. Seeing them return, she came forward and asked respectfully, "Madam, the hot water is ready for you. Would you like to take a bath and change clothes now?"
Xue Huichun smiled gently and nodded, "Thank you for your help. I'll be there later."
She turned her head slightly, looked at Jiang Lun beside her, and said softly, "Husband, I will go take a shower, change clothes, and rest for a while."
Jiang Lun's eyes were full of doting, and he nodded in agreement: "My wife, you have worked hard today, go quickly."
Under the careful service of the maid, Xue Huichun stepped into the bathroom. In the bathtub, the warm water rippled gently. She slowly immersed herself in it, and felt all her fatigue disappeared and her mind relaxed. After bathing, she changed into soft clothes, which made her look more elegant and refined.
At this time, outside the bedroom, Jiang Lun had received a list from the servant.
It listed in detail the gifts that Xue Huichun was going to bring when she returned home in three days. He read it carefully and added a few items.
When a bride returns to her parents' home, these gifts not only represent their thoughts, but also demonstrate the importance and attitude of the husband's family towards this marriage.
…
In the Xiangyun Hall of the Xingyuan Marquis Mansion, old lady Hong Yingrong was concentrating on arranging the menu for Xue Huichun's return visit tomorrow.
"Steamed duck with fermented rice wine. I remember Jiang Lun loves this dish, so I must make it. Also, barbecued pork and venison breast, and for soup, I'll choose ginseng and black chicken soup." Hong Yingrong gave detailed instructions while thinking.
Nanny Zhao was taking notes carefully, nodding from time to time to show that she understood.
She smiled and said, "Old Madam is so thoughtful. The fourth lady has only been married for two days and you're already missing her. However, when I look at this menu, I feel like you love your son-in-law more."
Hearing this, Hong Yingrong couldn't help but laugh. "You're such a jokester. Of course I love both of them, but I really like Lun'er too. Not only is he gentle and polite, but he also takes great care of Chun'er. How could I not be partial to him? Besides, every dish on this menu is what Chun'er and Lun'er love. I didn't leave any of them out."
This chapter is not over yet, please click on the next page to continue reading!
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com