Chapter 9: A Joyous Discovery

Lin Luoluo slept deeply, only waking when Chun Tao came to fetch her for dinner.

Tonight’s meal was lavishly prepared and split into two tables. The tension that had loomed over everyone due to Lin Luoluo’s uncertain fate had lifted with her safe return. The group now relaxed, indulging in food and drink without restraint.

Raising her glass of fruit wine, Lin Luoluo clinked it with the others and cleared her throat. “Ahem… Since everyone’s in good spirits today, I have something to announce.”

She produced several documents from her sleeve. “Uncle Zhong, Aunt Zhong—these are your contracts of servitude.”

“Chun Tao, this one’s yours.”

“Miss?”

Tears welled up in Chun Tao’s eyes as she clutched the paper. ‘Oh no, is Miss going to abandon me? What should I do?’

“Miss, what are you doing?” Uncle Zhong and Aunt Zhong both looked perplexed.

Before Lin Luoluo could explain, Chun Tao dropped to her knees with a loud thud, wrapping her arms around Lin Luoluo as she sobbed.

“Waaah! Miss, are you casting me aside? I’ll eat less, work more—please don’t send me away! Without you, I’ll be an orphan again!”

“You silly girl, what nonsense are you spouting?” Lin Luoluo flicked her forehead. “I’m just returning your contract, not kicking you out. But if you want to leave, I won’t stop you.”

“Ah! You scared me! I thought you didn’t want me anymore!” Chun Tao stood up, patted her chest in mock terror, then sat back down to resume eating with gusto.

Lin Luoluo shook her head. To a glutton, food truly reigns supreme.

Turning to Uncle Zhong, she explained, “We’ve left the capital behind. I’m no longer the daughter of a general’s household. I think it’s time to return these contracts to you all.”

“But…” Uncle Zhong began, only to be cut off by Lin Luoluo.

“You and Aunt Zhong have treated my siblings and me like family. Even during the hardest times at the General’s Estate, you stayed and cared for us. I trust you would never betray us.

“Besides, you should think of Huzi. With a clear background, he might have a chance at a brighter future—perhaps even an official career someday.”

“Miss, I don’t want to study. I like cooking!” Huzi piped up through a mouthful of food.

“Then you’ll have to think about your future wife and children, won’t you?” Lin Luoluo retorted.

“Uh… uh, Miss, that’s way off! I’m still young!” Huzi scratched his head sheepishly.

“Haha! Look, Huzi’s blushing!” Lin Luoluo teased.

“Uncle Zhong, please accept this.”

“Far from the capital’s rigid circles, there’s no need for formality. Let’s live freely,” Lin Luoluo concluded, raising her glass to the room once more.

“Elder Sister, have a drumstick! It’s so good!” Lin Zirui said, offering her a chicken leg.

“Elder Sister, try some braised pork! The flavor is amazing!” Lin Wanwan chimed in, adding a piece to her bowl.

Meanwhile, Aunt Zhong fed Lin Ziyu spoonfuls of egg custard.

As Lin Luoluo’s words sank in, the mood lightened further. The children’s table erupted into a lively contest of speed and wits over the remaining food.

“That sweet and sour rib is mine, don’t you dare take it!” shouted Lin Da.

“Too slow, Big Brother! Better luck next time!” Lin Er taunted, popping the rib into his mouth with a triumphant grin.

“You little—!” Lin Da turned to grab another dish, only to find the plates nearly empty. The speed of his siblings’ chopsticks was unparalleled.

Just as Lin Luoluo took a bite of meat, a wave of nausea overtook her. Clamping her hand over her mouth, she bolted outside and retched violently.

“Miss, are you alright?”

Chun Tao set down her chopsticks and hurried after her, gently patting her back.

“I’m fine. Just a little queasy—probably caught a chill,” Lin Luoluo replied, waving her off.

Aunt Zhong joined them, carrying Lin Ziyu in her arms. Observing Lin Luoluo, she asked, “Miss, when was your last monthly cycle?”

The question hit Lin Luoluo like a thunderclap. Her eyes widened in realization. Since arriving in this world, her menstrual cycle had been absent.

“Ever since I married into Prince Yu’s household, I don’t think it’s come…” she murmured.

Aunt Zhong turned to call out, “Zhong, fetch a doctor!”

“On it!” Uncle Zhong dashed off.

Half an hour later, he returned with an elderly physician, his long white beard giving him an air of wisdom.

“Doctor Zhou, please, this way,” Uncle Zhong said, ushering him inside.

The doctor’s sharp eyes landed on Lin Luoluo, his gaze lingering as though she seemed familiar.

“It’s you who needs a consultation? Let me see your wrist,” he finally said, taking a seat beside her.

Lin Luoluo hesitated but extended her hand.

Doctor Zhou placed his fingers on her pulse, closed his eyes, and concentrated. After a moment, he opened them again, stroking his beard with a knowing smile.

“Congratulations, young lady—you’re expecting.”

Lin Luoluo’s emotions surged—a mix of joy, anticipation, and worry.

“How far along am I? Is it safe to travel?”

“Judging by your pulse, you’re nearly three months along.”

Lin Luoluo’s heart sank. Three months? But I’ve been… She stopped herself, recalling something that gave her pause.

“If you must travel, take me along,” Doctor Zhou offered. “I’ll ensure your safety—for nothing more than a meal and good company.”

After some thought, Lin Luoluo agreed. As long as he means no harm, we’ll make do.