Chapter 18: In the Hall

In the early morning, warm, bright sunlight shone through the carved lattice window, and Meinang’s mood rose from the depths to the peaks.

What’s worth worrying about? The days pass by regardless of laughter or tears, for someone given a second chance at life, each day should be cherished rather than bogged down by minor issues. To live a remarkable life in a new world, one shouldn’t just cling to Xu Jun Ying’s support, but also rely on one’s own efforts. Time to bring out the tenacity and vigor of a professional woman! Although opportunities here may be scarce, with health, enthusiasm, and resilience, she believed she could find a smooth path and a favorable place of her own.

Wang Mama, managing all matters at Qing Hua Courtyard, ordered the maids to sweep the courtyard’s remaining snow to the flower beds, prepared hot water for her mistress’s morning wash, and made sure little Heng Ge’er was dressed warmly. She also sent the maids Cheng’er and Ping’er to bring breakfast from the kitchen. When Cui Xi reported that the mistress was awake, Wang Mama quickly instructed Cui Xi and Cui Jian to carefully help her mistress get dressed and made up. Although Seventh Master of the house recently passed, as a young, unmarried man, his spirit tablet was only kept in the courtyard where he once lived, and since the elderly lady was still in good health, the mourning period was lifted after a month by Second Master’s order. Life in the household was to return to normal, with everyone dressing and acting as before, to avoid too somber an atmosphere for the elderly lady’s health. Wang Mama thus dressed Meinang in the finest, most vibrant attire so that Lord Hou would see her looking as radiant as ever after her illness, a sight as beautiful as a flourishing peony in bloom.

After her near death experience, Wang Mama saw it as a divine blessing that Meinang was revived. She had nothing left in this life except her hopes in Meinang, whom she cared for like her own daughter. Whatever Meinang needed, Wang Mama was willing to do.

Before her illness, Meinang’s state was dire. Wang Mama had tearfully begged her to move on, to treat the incident as though it never happened and live a peaceful life with her husband, raising Heng Ge’er well. But Meinang was heartbroken, her soul seemed to have left with that person’s passing, leaving behind an empty shell that refused food, words, or life itself.

When Meinang died, Lord Hou summoned her, along with Cui Xi, Cui Si, and Cui Jian, reprimanding them and promising kindness if they cooperated. They only shed tears and silently thanked him without revealing anything he wanted to hear. Coldly, he warned them, “I won’t force you, but as is custom, a master’s death may require loyal servants to follow them in death for honor’s sake. Or, if you don’t wish to die, after her burial, I’ll send you all to the countryside, never to return.”

They feared he might kill them, but Wang Mama, understanding Meinang’s secrets, was relieved to find her mistress had forgotten the past. She was determined to help Meinang regain her husband’s favor, as only then could Heng Ge’er have a chance at inheritance, and Meinang maintain her status and prosperity.

Dressed impeccably in a yellow embroidered robe and pink silk skirt, her hair styled elegantly with golden ornaments and shimmering pearl strands, Meinang stepped out, holding little Heng Ge’er, his round face charming everyone in the household.

Today was the first sunny day after the snow, so many other family members had also come to greet the old lady, bringing their sons and daughters to pay respects, filling the hall with laughter. When Meinang finally arrived, her vibrant attire and radiant smile made her seem like a fairy. She apologized for being late and joked lightly, which brought more joy to the gathering. Little Heng Ge’er, influenced by his mother’s cheerful mood, chimed in with a delightful babble, bringing a fresh wave of laughter.

After greeting the old lady, Meinang noticed that the second uncle Xu Xi Ping was also present. Seeing her hesitation, Xu Jun Ying quietly explained to his uncle that her illness had caused memory loss, to which the uncle responded with understanding. Relieved, she paid her respects to him and continued with her greetings, carefully navigating the complex etiquette of the family.

Later, as Meinang observed the interactions around her, a small incident a rose Heng Ge’er unexpectedly wet himself on cousin Zhuang Yu Lan’s lap, startling her. Laughing off the mishap, Meinang comforted her cousin, who was embarrassed yet charmed by the child. The old lady reassured everyone, viewing the child’s antics as a sign of good fortune, and even teased that it was an auspicious blessing for Zhuang Yu Lan’s future.

The family continued with their cheerful gathering, basking in the warmth of the day and the harmony among the generations.