Chapter 202 Song Ci Gives a Hat
After resting for half an hour, Niu Pan’er took her leave first. In fact, she was also headed to Songshan Temple, but she preferred to travel by horseback rather than by carriage, so she didn’t accompany Song Ci and the others at a leisurely pace.
"I had such a delightful conversation with the Old Madam today. If there’s a chance after returning to the city, I’ll definitely visit your residence to pay my respects to the Old Madam," Niu Pan’er said with a smile to Song Ci.
During the time spent having tea with Song Ci, they got along very well. Song Ci gave her the impression not of an elderly person but of someone of the same age. Her words were interesting; though some seemed coarse, they conveyed deep wisdom.
The Old Madam of the Song Family was very charming and not at all like the stereotype of being rigid and unsophisticated. Niu Pan’er liked her very much.
The people in the Song Family were also very kind. The atmosphere among them felt more genuine and warm compared to other families. At least, there was no scheming among the children.
Song Ci laughed and said, "You should go. Come visit us when you have the time, and we will certainly welcome you warmly."
Niu Pan’er nodded with a smile, bowed to her, mounted her horse, and was about to leave when Song Ci called her back: "Wait a moment, my girl."
Niu Pan’er was a bit surprised, but she saw Song Ci take a bamboo hat from the carriage and hand it to her, saying, "Even though you’re used to braving the elements, you’re still a young lady. The sun is quite strong now, and while it’s fine to get tanned, sunburns can be painful. Wear this hat to shade your face from the sun; it’ll make you more comfortable."
The bamboo hat appeared to be newly made, with smoothly polished bamboo strips. It was simple and unadorned, just a bamboo hat with two royal blue ribbons for tying and securing it.
Niu Pan’er’s heart felt warm.