Chapter 1978: Home Life

Although they were all simple home-cooked dishes, their aroma filled the room, evoking a sense of warmth and closeness.

Seeing the eager expression on Qiao Xuan’s face, Ms. Fang couldn’t help but smile. “You must be exhausted from the journey. Dig in, dear! These dishes are just like the ones you used to enjoy at home.”

Qiao Xuan nodded enthusiastically. “Absolutely! I’ve been craving home-cooked meals for so long!”

Ms. Fang chuckled. “There’s nothing like home-cooked food, isn’t it? I’ll have your sister-in-law cook for you every day!”

Yang Xiaoni, entering with the last dish, chimed in. “Mother, Fifth Sister-in-law’s cooking is truly exceptional! I’ve even asked her to cook for me. I’m just here to assist and enjoy the food! Just the thought of it makes my mouth water!”

Ms. Fang scolded Yang Xiaoni jokingly. “Stop your chatter! Your Fifth Sister-in-law is the lady of the house. She shouldn’t be cooking for you! We have plenty of servants here, and you can’t even order them around. Stop with this nonsense!”

Yang Xiaoni smiled sheepishly. “Oops, my mistake! Fifth Sister-in-law, I apologize. Please don’t be mad at me. I really didn’t mean anything by it. Truly!”

Qiao Xuan chuckled. “No need to worry, Third Sister-in-law. We’re family, after all!”

Then she turned to Ms. Fang with a warm smile. “Mom, there’s no need to be so formal with me. Cooking at home is a pleasure. I’d love to prepare a meal for you!”

“Don’t overexert yourself, dear! We’re family, no need for formalities. Let’s sit down and eat before the food gets cold!”

With everyone’s agreement, they gathered around the table for dinner.

The atmosphere was relaxed and familial, filled with lively conversation and familial warmth. It was a true homecoming experience.

After dinner, Anan sought comfort in Qiao Xuan’s arms again, prompting Ms. Fang to express concern. She arranged for hot water for Qiao Xuan and her son to wash up and encouraged them to rest for the night.

The yard where Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan used to reside remained intact. It was secured when they were away, and it received monthly cleaning and maintenance.

Anticipating Qiao Xuan and her son’s return, Ms. Fang instructed Yang Xiaoni and Taotao to tidy up daily, ensuring the windows were open for ventilation and dust was wiped away. Pots of lively flowers adorned the yard, giving it a vibrant ambiance despite their absence.

Entering the yard with Anan, the nanny, Lixia, and Liqiu, Qiao Xuan found everything orderly, evoking a comforting warmth within her heart.

Home was home because of this irreplaceable sense of belonging.

The night passed sweetly and peacefully.

The next morning, after Qiao Xuan refreshed herself and exchanged greetings with Ms. Fang and the others, she led Anan, Lixia, Liqiu, and Taotao to the backyard to harvest fruits.

The air was crisp, carrying a hint of morning chill, while the garden exuded life and freshness. The sight of lush greenery brought joy to their hearts.

The fruit trees had noticeably flourished, their thick and tall trunks adorned with luxuriant branches and leaves.