Chapter 1977: Returning to Shaoding Village

The following day, Qiao Xuan and her companions prepared to depart.

First Madame entrusted Auntie Hua, her trusted confidante, to accompany Qiao Xuan and offer assistance.

Auntie Hua was a pillar of strength, possessing a wealth of experience and a calm, meticulous demeanor. With her by Qiao Xuan’s side, everything would proceed smoothly.

As Taotao’s wedding approached, guests from the Yuezheng Family would soon arrive to extend their congratulations. First Madame informed Qiao Xuan that she intended to join them a few days in advance.

Expressing her gratitude, Qiao Xuan smiled and thanked First Madame sincerely.

Taking Qiao Xuan’s hands in hers, First Madame returned the smile and spoke warmly, “No need for such formality with me. It’s because of your understanding that I feel comfortable offering my help. I’m just glad you don’t see me as meddling!”

Indeed, few would welcome interference in such significant matters as marriage. It was a testament to the trust and camaraderie between them that First Madame felt comfortable lending Auntie Hua’s assistance.

Understanding First Madame’s sentiment, Qiao Xuan reassured her with a smile, “You’re not an outsider to me, and I appreciate your support. My mother-in-law will undoubtedly be grateful to you, just as I am!”

First Madame nodded with a smile, then scooped Anan into her arms, gently pinching his cheeks and playing with him. She watched as mother and daughter climbed into the carriage, surrounded by the bustling crowd.

After a day of travel, they finally arrived back in Shaoding Village by evening.

Ms. Fang had been eagerly anticipating their return every day, and her joy knew no bounds now that her dreams had come true!

Taotao couldn’t contain her excitement as she enveloped Qiao Xuan in a tight embrace, laughing joyfully. Ms. Fang greeted Qiao Xuan warmly, her eyes brimming with happiness as she inquired about Shao Yunduan. Anan’s presence only added to her delight, and she couldn’t help but smile.

Shao Dalang, Ms. Xu, Shao Sanlang, Yang Xiaoni, and the others all shared in the jubilation. They surrounded Qiao Xuan, exchanging greetings and well-wishes. Even Chunyu and the seasoned servants couldn’t contain their happiness.

Word had spread throughout the village that Qiao Xuan had returned with her children. The sight of several carriages and a retinue of dozens of servants made quite the impression. It was a testament to the prosperity of their family. Indeed, as Shao Liulang had suggested, Anze Province seemed to be a land of opportunity.

If it were not so, Lord Shao wouldn’t have attained such wealth, and Madam Shao’s return wouldn’t have been so grandiose…

Suddenly, the first section of the Shao Family’s courtyard was bustling with activity as many people gathered there. The yard became alive with chatter and laughter, everyone smiling and greeting Qiao Xuan warmly. Anan garnered particular attention, with everyone marveling at his adorable appearance and apparent intelligence. He was truly the pride of the Shao Family…

After a while, Ms. Fang and her daughter-in-law, seeing that Qiao Xuan and her grandson were tired from the journey, suggested that they retire to rest. They bid farewell, promising to return the next morning, and one by one, the guests departed.

With the courtyard gate closed, tranquility finally returned to the house.

The servants who had accompanied them were duly settled, and preparations for dinner were underway. A table was set in the main room, awaiting their arrival.

Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni, along with the household staff, were busy in the kitchen. They prepared a feast fit for the occasion, including stewed chicken with mushrooms, braised duck, and steamed mandarin fish fresh from the backyard pond.

Additionally, they prepared steamed sausages, stir-fried radishes and garlic shoots, scrambled eggs with scallions, sauteed wolfberry shoots, and stir-fried lettuce with garlic, filling the air with the aroma of garlic and fresh vegetables…