Chapter 98: Looking Out for the Youngest Child
Madam Wei wasn’t in a hurry to sit down. She pulled Wang Qiuman forward with a smile and said, "Man’er, this is Madam Song. Go and pay your respects."
Wang Qiuman stepped forward gracefully and bowed: "Wang Qiuman greets Madam Song, wishing you prosperity and health."
"Good, good. No need for formalities, come closer so I can have a look," Song Ci said with a smile, gesturing for her to come forward. She said to Madam Wei, "I’ve been sick, and aside from my own daughters, I haven’t seen any other young girls. You do know my heart well, bringing such a flower-like girl to cheer me up."
She winked at Madam Wei. Is this the girl meant to be betrothed to my son?
Madam Wei gave an imperceptible nod and said, "As people age, they yearn to see fresh faces and things. Knowing this, I brought her along. Don’t you think? With her by my side, I feel years younger."
Wang Qiuman approached Song Ci, who took her hands affectionately and asked her age, and what she usually did—those familiar old questions.
Wang Qiuman answered each one articulately and with poise.
Song Ci patted her hand and said, "Such a good child." She then took a string of tourmaline from a nearby table and slipped it onto her wrist: "This is our first meeting, and I have nothing special to give you. Wear this for fun."