Chapter 591 - 236 Release the knot in one’s heart
Zhuang Ruolan had left her confinement, but even when Madam Tang wanted to hand back the steward authority to her, Zhuang Ruolan declined to take over.
Zhuang Ruolan said, "I’ll have to trouble you, sister-in-law, to handle things a bit longer. I’m not in good health, and the doctor said I need to take time to recuperate."
Seeing the ruddy complexion of Zhuang Ruolan claim to be unwell, Madam Tang was somewhat unable to fathom her intentions but seeing Zhuang Ruolan’s determination, she did not resist further.
Lady Cheng, considering that her daughter would turn thirteen after the New Year—an age when girls are typically matched for marriage—was anxious about Ma Linlin still being unmatched. How could she not worry? However, Lady Cheng’s anxiety was futile; she couldn’t just show up uninvited when no one had sent her an invitation. Therefore, after discussing with Ma Chengteng, they decided to host a banquet at home and invite relatives and friends.
Zhuang Ruolan scoffed in her heart. Lady Cheng truly lacked foresight. If they had allowed Linlin to learn manners diligently for another year, she might have barely been presentable. Presenting her in her current state, which reputable family’s matriarch would give her a second glance? But with her poor relationship with Lady Cheng, she wasn’t about to kindly remind her. If she did, it could backfire on her.
Madam Tang also saw the issues with the plan and offered her advice, suggesting that there was no need to rush since the young sister-in-law was just twelve and turning thirteen after the New Year. Madam Tang’s well-meaning suggestion, however, provoked a barrage of scolding from Lady Cheng.
Madam Tang had offered her advice out of respect for her husband; since it was not appreciated, she did not press the matter further. Nonetheless, the banquet arrangements were still entrusted to Madam Tang.
Yueyao was playing with Keyue in the room. ’Playing’ in this context actually involved Yueyao drawing animals for Keyue to recognize—children at this age are naturally curious about everything. Yueyao was not intent on making Keyue a prodigy; it was merely for fun.
Nanny Xin came over and said, "Madam, there are visitors from the Zhuang Residence."
The old nanny who arrived informed Zhuang Ruolan that her father was ill, and Zhuang Changhe had sent someone to ask her to return home.