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If Shao Yunduan were also present, they would need to extend an invitation to him for the banquet as well. The County Magistrate would likely be displeased if he were excluded, even if he didn’t voice it. They might fear that not inviting him could lead to unfavorable consequences in the future, perhaps with the Shao Family using this omission against them when they required assistance.

As the evening approached early in the season, Qiao Xuan and the others arrived in the province, and it was already dark. They made their way directly to the Yuezheng Family.

The entrance of the Yuezheng Family was adorned with two rows of large lanterns, brightly illuminating the gate. Auntie Hua, accompanied by two maids, was standing next to First Madame, gazing into the distance. As she spotted the approaching wagon, she greeted them with a warm smile.

“Fifth Mrs. Shao, how much our madame has missed you! The evenings are growing colder, how was your journey?” Auntie Hua asked as she helped Qiao Xuan down from the wagon.

Qiao Xuan replied with a smile, sensing Auntie Hua’s concern. “Thank you for your kind words, Elder Aunt. The journey was smooth, and I wouldn’t dare to keep you waiting. Your thoughtfulness is truly appreciated!”

Auntie Hua smiled and humbly responded, “First Madame was eager for your arrival, so she sent me to greet you. I am not worthy of such a task. Please, come inside. First Madame has already prepared dinner and eagerly awaits your company.”

Qiao Xuan laughed cheerfully, “As the sun sets, the cold becomes biting. The thought of the warm food prepared by Elder Aunt is truly heartening and invigorating!”

Auntie Hua chuckled in response, “That’s exactly what First Madame said. On such days, we should relish a good meal and warm soup. Everything is ready for you!”

As they strolled together, Auntie Hua found herself growing fonder of Qiao Xuan with every passing moment. Coming from humble beginnings, both Auntie Hua and Shao Yunduan had not been born into prosperous families, which compelled her to be respectful and courteous towards Qiao Xuan. However, she couldn’t help but notice that Qiao Xuan’s demeanor hadn’t changed despite her husband’s impressive position as a young and learned officer with a promising future. Such humility was a rare sight, as Auntie Hua had observed many people becoming arrogant after achieving success.

Upon Qiao Xuan’s arrival, First Madame eagerly awaited her with a warm smile. They exchanged friendly conversation, with First Madame showing genuine concern for Qiao Xuan’s well-being. She offered her a hot towel to freshen up and served her some hot tea to ward off the evening chill. Their interactions resembled that of a mother and daughter, displaying a deep bond and understanding between them.

After a brief rest, First Madame signaled for the dishes to be served, and they sat down together to enjoy the meal. At First Madame’s spot, a bowl of rice was placed, while a delightful spread of six dishes and one soup adorned the small mahogany Ruyi-style round table. The dishes included crab powder, lukewarm kidney flower meatballs, sweet and sour spine meat, braised mutton, casserole tofu fish head, and bamboo fungus black chicken soup. Though common dishes for the Yuezheng Family, they were prepared with great care, served in white bowls and plates, steaming hot, enticingly colorful, and perfectly suited to satisfy both stomach and soul.

After dinner, they retreated to the small hall to sip tea and aid their digestion while engaging in light conversation. Qiao Xuan took the opportunity to update First Madame on the happenings back at her own home. Despite not possessing the same level of refinement as First Madame, Qiao Xuan found comfort in confiding in her, knowing that she could seek counsel and wisdom if any problems arose.

As she shared the news, Qiao Xuan couldn’t help but feel a surge of emotions upon recounting how her honest and straightforward Elder Brother had been deceived and set up.