Chapter 29: The Housekeeper

From early morning to noon, the household’s internal and external managers were received, and the maids in charge reported in turn. Accounts were checked, questions asked, and everything was handled efficiently, making the morning pass quickly.

The elder madam personally sat by to oversee and instruct, while the young madam observed, handling matters smoothly and rationally. Her questions went straight to the heart of issues, and she grasped key points with calm composure. She appeared as gentle and delicate as a soft lily, yet when managing affairs, her gaze was sharp and commanding, even more intimidating than that of Lady Bai, who previously held the seat.

The senior madam, seated at the head position and sipping tea, occasionally nodded with approval in her eyes. The maids and attendants understood the implication since her recovery, the senior madam had shown even greater care for her eldest grandson, keeping him close. As the eldest grandson’s mother, the young madam was entrusted with managing the household. Even though she wasn’t the biological mother of the young master, her own child had passed, and she had no other support but the family. This was an unspoken alliance that tied the household together, with everyone rallying under the elder madam’s leadership.

Thus, no one dared to disrespect the young madam. With the senior madam’s backing, only those who didn’t care about their position would dare to cross her. Everyone knew they had to act diligently and stay alert to avoid any mistakes or insubordination.

Meinang accompanied Madam Zheng back to her quarters. Over tea, Madam Zheng remarked, “You are indeed clever and perceptive, even more so than Jing Yu. By the way, there are funds allocated for certain interactions, Jing Yu holds the account books with five or six thousand taels of silver. Have her transfer them to you in due time.”

Meinang sighed, “I hadn’t realized how complex the household affairs would be! I spent the entire morning focused here and still haven’t grasped everything. Now that the year-end approaches, will the external accounts also be reconciled with us? I truly admire how Mother managed all this before. Perhaps Jing Yu could assist me, I worry I might miss something.”

Setting down her cup, Madam Zheng replied calmly, “A household can only have one primary steward. Others may help, but power must never be handed over. Trusting sisters in law is less reliable than relying on loyal, longstanding maids. These maids have served me faithfully for decades; they would not dare deceive you. Knowing your keen mind now eases my heart. The country is at peace, so the young lord likely won’t be sent to the borders soon. Since you’ve birthed the eldest grandson, the family lineage is secured. Remember, no matter how many others are born, he is the firstborn.”

Meinang lowered her head respectfully and replied, “I understand, Mother.”

“I am raising Heng Ge’er so that you can focus on managing the household. If you have other children, they’re yours to raise. But remember, Heng Ge’er is the firstborn, he should always come first. When you grow old, it is he who will support you.”

“Yes, Mother, I understand,” Meinang replied softly, remaining standing.

Madam Zheng observed her for a moment and felt satisfied, although a sudden, painful memory brought a gleam of sorrow to her eyes. The echo of a lively voice lingered in her mind:

“I adore her! She’s so gentle and kind. How could he leave her alone, cold and neglected, left to suffer disrespect from others? Who would dare mistreat her now? She is my…”

Snapping out of her trance, Madam Zheng took a moment to collect herself and instructed, “Stay for lunch. You can also visit Heng Ge’er.”

Meinang’s face lit up. She stepped outside and instructed Cui Jian, “You and Aunt Wang may return now. Elder Cheng mentioned hosting a banquet for an important guest in the East Courtyard. Make sure Aunt Wang oversees the arrangements.”

Cui Jian bowed and then hesitated before adding, “The young cousin has already gone over, so there’s someone to assist.”

“Which cousin?” Meinang asked, curious.

“Miss Yu,” Cui Jian replied quietly.

Back inside, Meinang helped Madam Zheng with her tea. “The tea has cooled, allow me to fetch a fresh cup.”

Madam Zheng looked at her with a glimmer of affection. “You’ve truly changed since your recovery. In the past, you wouldn’t have noticed such small details.”

Meinang responded softly, “As Mother, you deserve the utmost care. With all of us here, please ask for anything you wish. Heng Ge’er will bring you joy and laughter, and my daily visits will keep him close.”

The senior madam nodded, seeming deeply moved. “I am growing older with a grandson by my side now, so indeed, I feel a little softened.”

After dismissing her other attendants, Madam Zheng turned to Meinang and asked, “What do you think of my niece?”

Feigning surprise, Meinang replied, “Miss Yu? She’s beautiful, like a flower in bloom. Why? Is there a suitor for her?”

Madam Zheng coughed slightly, covering her mouth with a handkerchief, looking slightly embarrassed. “Not exactly… perhaps. Do you recall the An Yuan Marquis’ residence? His wife recently arranged a match, though it wasn’t her first choice. Yu’er refused and insisted on staying here. She and your husband have known each other since they were children and grew up together.”

Meinang felt a pang of frustration but maintained a gentle smile, replying, “What are you implying, Mother?”

Madam Zheng sighed and explained softly, “There’s no one else here, so I’ll tell you plainly. You know my nephew, Miss Zhuang. She grew up under my care and has a remarkable family lineage. She is close to the Empress Dowager and has a touch of nobility about her. Your role here has been wonderful, but when compared to her…”

Meinang’s heart sank as she realized what Madam Zheng was hinting at. “Then, what is her aim?”