Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 1644: Pride

Lixia and Liqiu assisted Qiao Xuan as they helped him out of the wagon. This was the scene that greeted them upon entering the yard and the main house.

Deputy Prefect Guan wore an apologetic expression. “I’m truly sorry, Lord Shao. The former Prefect took all the furniture with him or sold it when he departed. He had personally purchased those items. Shall I arrange for someone to buy replacements from the shop?”

“No need. It’s a minor matter; I’ll handle it myself.”

“Ah, that’s good. Lord, I’m sure you have excellent taste. Choosing things personally will ensure they suit your preferences. I’ll have someone take your guys to the market later.”

Shao Yunduan responded noncommittally, “Deputy Prefect Guan, I appreciate your efforts today. Once everything is settled, I’ll host a banquet to express my gratitude to all of you. In the days ahead, I’ll rely on Deputy Prefect Guan for various matters. I hope you won’t find me too bothersome.”

“No, no, no, Lord, you jest!” Deputy Prefect Guan beamed, waving his hands. “I’ve always been at your service. I’ll follow your orders! If there’s anything you need me to do, just say the word. I’ll gladly share your burdens by providing all the information I possess!”

“… I wouldn’t dare trouble you with unnecessary expenses. Once we’re settled, I’ll host a banquet for you, hahaha!”

With a smile, Shao Yunduan exchanged a few more pleasantries before Deputy Prefect Guan took his leave.

However, just as Deputy Prefect Guan was about to depart, Qiao Xuan suddenly addressed him with a hint of pride, “Deputy Prefect Guan, isn’t it? When is Mrs. Guan planning to pay her respects? If it’s too late, tell her not to come today; she can return tomorrow! I’m tired and would like to rest early.”

Deputy Prefect Guan was taken aback, quickly putting on a smile and offering profuse apologies. “Yes, yes. She is not feeling well today, so she didn’t make an appearance. Please forgive me, Madam Shao. Tomorrow, when she feels better, I’ll definitely ask her to come over to pay the respects.”

Qiao Xuan remained unyielding, scoffing, “Not feeling well? What a coincidence!”

She stopped just short of accusing her of feigning illness. Even though Deputy Prefect Guan possessed a smooth tongue and eloquence, Qiao Xuan’s words caught him off guard.

In his view, maintaining mutual respect and harmony was essential. Everyone should be in good spirits!

Encountering someone who didn’t show any courtesy was genuinely…

Nevertheless, Deputy Prefect Guan, resembling a benevolent Buddha, recovered swiftly from his momentary surprise, and his face soon lit up with smiles once again.

His smile exuded warmth. “Haha, Madam Shao, you do have a knack for humor… My wife has always been delicate. Just a few days ago, she was mentioning you and eagerly anticipating your arrival!”

Qiao Xuan’s expression softened slightly. She shot him a glance and said nothing more.

After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Deputy Prefect Guan truly took his leave.

Songshi dismissed the two men and two maidservants who had been serving in the courtyard. Closing the courtyard door, everyone set to work, carrying luggage and dividing tasks.

Inside the main room, an Arhat bed, an eight-seat table, chairs flanking each side of the table, a long table, and an immovable ancient shelf partition were the only furnishings.

Taking charge, Shao Yunduan directed Lixia, Liqiu, and the others to prepare the Arhat bed. He assisted Qiao Xuan in sitting down, saying, “Wife, take a rest. Lixia, head to the kitchen and boil some hot water. Retrieve the box of snacks and place it on the table so we can satisfy our hunger…”