Chapter 22: Longing

With the insignia of Prince Jing, Xiao Jingkang successfully invited Imperial Physician Sun, an elderly doctor in his seventies with a beard of white. On the way, Xiao Jingkang carefully explained his daughter’s condition and medical history to Imperial Physician Sun. Upon arriving at the Xiao residence, they found Madam Tong already there, chatting with Xiao Yao.

Imperial Physician Sun was not acquainted with the Xiao family but was quite familiar with the Tong family. Seeing Xiao Yao’s sweet and lovely demeanor, he couldn’t help but take a liking to her. He conducted a meticulous examination of Xiao Yao and reviewed Dr. Zhao’s prescription. After some thought, he adjusted the prescription by adding and removing a few herbs and gave detailed instructions about necessary precautions.

“This young lady’s health is gradually improving. As long as she receives proper care and maintains a cheerful disposition, her recovery looks promising.”

Hearing these words from Imperial Physician Sun, everyone present, including the Xiao family members and Madam Tong, couldn’t hide their excitement. Xiao Jingkang and his wife solemnly assured Imperial Physician Sun that they would follow his advice. Seeing Xiao Yao’s hopeful and clear eyes looking up at him, Imperial Physician Sun gently patted her head, his hand carrying a faint medicinal fragrance. What an endearing child! He resolved to do his utmost to help her recover as soon as possible.

Before leaving, Imperial Physician Sun informed everyone that he would return for a follow-up examination in half a month. The Xiao family expressed their deep gratitude. Madam Tong personally escorted him to the door, while Xiao Yao sweetly said, “Goodbye, Grandpa Sun.” Hearing the girl’s soft and sweet farewell, Imperial Physician Sun felt even more satisfied with his decision to assist.

“With Imperial Physician Sun treating Ping’an, she will surely recover soon. Finally, we can breathe a sigh of relief. Eldest son, make sure to prepare generous gifts to thank him. Amitabha, may Heaven bless us,” Qin Shi murmured, clasping her hands together in prayer.

“Ping’an must have left a favorable impression on Imperial Physician Sun. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have agreed so readily. He’s famously difficult to deal with in the capital,” someone remarked.

Madam Tong frowned at Qin Shi’s habit of linking everything to money. Imperial Physician Sun’s willingness to help was clearly due to his fondness for Ping’an. The Xiao family might be wealthy, but Imperial Physician Sun was not short of money either. If he overheard Qin Shi’s remarks, he might not come back next time.

The effects of Imperial Physician Sun’s prescription were remarkable. After seven days of herbal treatment, Xiao Yao felt significantly better. As long as she avoided the scorching sun, the suffocating feeling of breathlessness was almost gone. Her improved mood led to a better appetite. When Imperial Physician Sun visited again, Xiao Yao was back to being a vibrant and spirited young girl.

“Grandpa Sun… thank you,” the little girl said with a bright smile, her sincerity evident.

“Just words of thanks won’t do. What are you going to give me as a token of gratitude?” teased Imperial Physician Sun, his mood lightened by her energetic presence.

Xiao Yao earnestly searched herself for something suitable to offer as a gift. Finding nothing satisfactory, her small face scrunched up in frustration. Suddenly, an idea struck her. She tugged on Imperial Physician Sun’s sleeve, signaling him to bend down. Though puzzled, Imperial Physician Sun obliged.

“Muah!” A loud smooch landed on Imperial Physician Sun’s cheek. Xiao Yao, pleased with her cleverness, silently praised herself for coming up with a gift that was both economical and readily available.

Imperial Physician Sun was stunned. Was this the same obedient and demure girl he had met earlier? She was clearly a mischievous little imp now, her sparkling eyes full of playfulness. Had he been tricked? Nevertheless, he didn’t mind. Whether obedient or playful, she had won his favor and would remain under his care.

After the follow-up, Imperial Physician Sun adjusted the prescription and informed the Xiao family that they could stop the treatment after one more course of medicine. He also provided two recipes for medicinal diets and detailed instructions for care, promising to return in winter. Xiao Jingkang escorted Imperial Physician Sun home, carrying generous gifts to show his gratitude.

With the reassurance from Imperial Physician Sun, the Xiao family could finally relax and focus on preparing for the patriarch’s 60th birthday celebration. Yuan Yutong volunteered to help, seeing this as a rare opportunity to show filial piety before leaving with her husband and daughter. She took charge of decorating the longevity hall and renovating the courtyard, while Li Jiaoying managed the family’s new clothing and supervised the younger children. Tong Mingyu became exceptionally busy, working tirelessly from dawn to dusk.

Following the plan, Xiao Jingkang hosted a meal for Prince Jing. The prince’s humility met Xiao Jingkang’s composed demeanor, leaving both with favorable impressions of each other. Though not intimate friends, they formed a gentlemanly bond.

With General Xiao’s return to the capital, Qin Shi finally felt at ease. Her long-held anxiety dissipated, though it was soon replaced by concern for her youngest son, who had been away for two years without returning. Did he not miss his home or his mother?

Noticing her mother-in-law’s downcast mood, Li Jiaoying rallied the children to cheer her up. Young Xiao Jun, energetic and curious, refused to be carried, picking flowers and splashing through puddles, much to his mother’s chagrin.

“Fifth Brother, dirty, smelly,” Xiao Yao said, pinching her nose in exaggerated disdain.

Hurt by his sister’s remark, Xiao Jun quickly tried to win her favor, circling around her like a little puppy. Xiao Yao pointed at a flower and sternly said, “No picking.”

After a brief hesitation, Xiao Jun reluctantly agreed. He then preemptively promised to avoid puddles as well, earning his sister’s approval. The scene delighted Li Jiaoying, who finally managed to relax.

When all the grandchildren gathered, Qin Shi’s earlier worries faded. Surrounded by their warmth and affection, she decided to let go of her concerns, realizing that her happiness directly influenced her children’s peace of mind.

And so, preparations for the birthday celebration continued in high spirits.