Chapter 1976: Small Gathering

First Madame agreed that Qiao Xuan was lucky to have Lord Shao by her side. He was indeed a good man.

As for the uncertainties of the future, First Madame acknowledged that no one could predict with certainty. She hoped Qiao Xuan would always be fine, but she couldn’t ignore the potential flaws in men’s character.

There were too many variables to consider.

Although Shao Yunduan was currently only a Prefect, who knew what the future held? What if he ascended to a higher position in the government?

However, whenever Qiao Xuan spoke about Shao Yunduan, her demeanor softened, and First Madame couldn’t bring herself to dampen her spirits.

Instead, she chose to praise Qiao Xuan’s good fortune. With Anan, the firstborn son of the primary wife, and a substantial estate with vast wealth, Qiao Xuan was indeed blessed.

A woman had her son to support her and her wealth to sustain her. As for her husband, if he proved reliable, she would stand by him. If not, she would be prepared to part ways.

In case of any adversity in the future, Qiao Xuan could draw strength from the wisdom shared during their conversation today.

Qiao Xuan didn’t fully grasp First Madame’s implications, but she listened attentively. Thoughts of Anan filled her with joy.

Taking advantage of the discussion about Taotao’s family, Qiao Xuan seized the moment to seek advice from First Madame.

Taotao was marrying into the affluent Zhao family from Jiangnan, a milieu Qiao Xuan had never encountered before. She felt unequipped to handle the intricacies of such a prominent family, let alone navigate the dynamics with her mother-in-law, Ms. Fang, and her two sisters-in-law.

This was precisely why she had returned home earlier than planned. There were numerous decisions awaiting her attention regarding household arrangements and preparations. Moreover, with many guests expected from the Zhao family, the Shao family couldn’t afford to be negligent. They had to ensure Taotao’s standing was impeccable, preventing anyone in the Zhao family from looking down on her.

Despite Shao Yunduan holding the position of Prefect in Anze Province, the Shao family lacked the same social standing and wealth as the Zhao family. Shao Yunduan’s authority didn’t carry the same weight in the South as it did in the remote Anze Province, making it difficult to assert influence over the Zhao family.

Thus, it was imperative for the Zhao family to witness the Shao family’s strength firsthand to earn their respect.

First Madame had been deeply involved in wedding preparations, so she was well-versed in every detail of the ceremony. Qiao Xuan eagerly shared all she knew with her.

Their conversation flowed joyously, and even as dinner was served, they found themselves reluctant to end their discussion.

Noticing that most of the twelve sumptuous dishes laid out before her were her favorites, Qiao Xuan couldn’t help but feel touched. With a grateful smile, she looked up at First Madame and playfully remarked, “Elder Aunt, you spoil me so much! You remembered all my favorites!”

First Madame chuckled heartily. “I have a good memory, you know!”

“You’re still young! How can you be considered old?”

Their laughter filled the air as they savored their meal together. First Madame showed great concern for Qiao Xuan’s well-being, especially considering her exhausting journey. As night fell, Anan became restless, demanding his mother’s attention. Recognizing Qiao Xuan’s fatigue, First Madame arranged for her to retire to bed.

Before bidding her goodnight, First Madame reassured Qiao Xuan, urging her not to fret about the affairs of the province and to feel at ease. She promised that even if Qiao Xuan needed anything in the middle of the night or if Anan grew hungry, the servants would be at her beck and call. She had even instructed the kitchen to prepare pigeon porridge in a casserole on the small stove–a comforting thought for Qiao Xuan.

Grateful for First Madame’s thoughtfulness, Qiao Xuan nodded with a warm smile, feeling deeply touched by her kindness.