The old madam remained silent. Afterwards, she selected many fine items and had Ah Nian deliver them to Physician Luo and Qi Zhenzhen as expressions of her gratitude.
On the merits of the matter, the old madam had not changed her opinion of Qi Zhenzhen because of that incident; she still felt Qi Zhenzhen was not worthy of Ah Nian. However, now that she had entered the household, she had no other recourse but to try and accept her.
"Alright, let's not talk about these things anymore. My health is not as good as it used to be, and my energy is insufficient. The affairs of the household will be handled by the young masters. Whoever has the ability to improve the household will be in charge. I will not quibble over other matters," the old madam said, waving her hand as if she had come to terms with it.
Granny Li boldly speculated that the old madam's intention was to let the eldest young master and the heir contend. Whoever proved more capable would gain more. If this were the case, the household would likely have no peaceful days ahead. The Duke clearly favored the eldest young master, and when that happened…
Granny Li shook her head slightly. These were not matters a mere servant could interfere with. She could only hope that the two brothers would not fall out too badly.
On the other side, Gu Sinian and Qi Zhenzhen went to Madam Xiao Qin's residence and chatted with her.
"These are some of my jewelry from when I was young. The colors are vibrant and most suitable for your age," Madam Xiao Qin said, taking out many pieces of jewelry for Qi Zhenzhen.
"Mother, your daughter-in-law has enough jewelry," Qi Zhenzhen felt she had too many things.
"I am already this old. If I were to still wear these, it would be a laughing matter. Don't be shy; my things will be yours in the future," Madam Xiao Qin said, holding Qi Zhenzhen's hand. "You are a good child. Marrying into this household, I have wronged you."
"I am not wronged. Ah Nian is very good, and Mother is also very good. Grandmother is also reasonable. As for others, your daughter-in-law does not care," Qi Zhenzhen said earnestly.
Madam Xiao Qin was moved. "It's not that I, as a mother, am boasting, but Ah Nian is indeed a good child. Mother hopes you two will live harmoniously in the future, supporting each other, and not let your hearts drift apart. Rest assured, as long as Mother is here, I will protect you, and I will not let those who pride themselves on their status bully you."
"Mother, please rest assured, your daughter-in-law is never one to be pushed around. If they want to bully your daughter-in-law, they will have to see if their methods are enough," Qi Zhenzhen said with a smile.
Madam Xiao Qin's smile deepened. Before, she had only heard Ah Nian talk about how good Zhenzhen was. Now, seeing her and speaking with her, she also felt that this daughter-in-law was not bad. At least she was not like herself, with a soft disposition. She was dignified, straightforward, and did not hide her feelings. She praised Ah Nian and also praised her, which truly made her heart happy.
After chatting for a while longer, Madam Xiao Qin dismissed them. "There is nothing else to do now. You two go back and rest. You don't need to come and accompany me for lunch. Qingfeng Courtyard has a small kitchen, so Zhenzhen can order whatever she wishes to eat. Ah Nian, after you go back, you are not allowed to bother Zhenzhen. Let her rest well."
Qi Zhenzhen's face instantly flushed. Those words were too direct.
After returning, Qi Zhenzhen changed into loose clothing and climbed onto the couch, hugging a soft bolster pillow in a comfortable position. The mansion was very large. From Qingfeng Courtyard to Songhe Courtyard, then to Madam Xiao Qin's residence, and back again, it had taken nearly half an hour of walking. She had felt sore and stiff since waking up that morning. She had endured it and visited various places, and now her body felt like it was falling apart.
"Come here," Gu Sinian said, sitting on the couch and beckoning Qi Zhenzhen.
Qi Zhenzhen immediately became vigilant. "What are you trying to do? Have you already forgotten what Mother said? Are you not afraid I'll report you to Mother? Besides, it's broad daylight now!"
Gu Sinian: ...