Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Qiao Xuan felt a slight sense of motivation, but the thought of dealing with Madame Lin and Madame Su made her abandon the idea. She smiled and shook her head, saying, “This place is the best option. I can manage it here. I believe it’s unwise to relocate. Dealing with those officials can be even more troublesome. Their words are often veiled, and one must navigate their intentions through intricate twists and turns. A misstep could easily offend someone. It’s truly vexing!”

Shao Yunduan found her amusing and pulled her close for a kiss. “Alright, as you wish. If you ever encounter any difficulties, remember to inform me. You needn’t resort to being a ‘bad person’; I’ll handle it.”

Being an officer, Shao Yunduan had the authority that demanded respect.

The residents of the imperial city were both knowledgeable and tactful, and they understood the nuances of diplomacy.

Qiao Xuan responded with a smile.

Shao Yunduan’s gaze grew intense as he held her tightly. “It’s getting late; let’s take a break.”

Qiao Xuan met his gaze, and her heart raced. She blushed and averted her eyes, whispering, “Alright…”

Shao Yunduan lifted her in his arms and headed back to the bedroom.

In early summer, roses were in full bloom, and durian flowers blazed with crimson. Peonies were also at their peak. During this splendid season, women in the capital often hosted various grand events to appreciate the flowers.

Some had extended invitations to Qiao Xuan, including the wives and daughters-in-law of Shao Yunduan’s colleagues or those connected to officials from the Crown Prince’s faction.

Social engagements were inevitable. While Qiao Xuan preferred to prepare delicious meals at home and spend her husband’s breaks exploring mountains, visiting lakes, and enjoying the landscapes of Yunshui Town, she couldn’t decline these invitations.

Due to Shao Yunduan’s youthful promise and his high standing in the East Palace, the women always held back their true feelings around Qiao Xuan. Some may have displayed their disdain through their attitudes, but none dared to voice it aloud.

Qiao Xuan, however, was never one to subscribe to such notions. She remained unruffled.

The fact that Shao Yunduan had turned down Tian Shanshan and chosen her was enough to arouse jealousy and resentment among many women for his sake.

How could a concubine’s daughter like her be so fortunate?

Some even envied the financial success Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan had achieved at such a young age since their arrival in the capital.

They had purchased a house and over 1,000 mu of land. It was rumored that a small plate of strawberries at Jinquan Restaurant cost nearly 1 tael of silver, and carrying more than 500 grams cost over 2 liang. Qiao Xuan could supply more than 50 kilograms a day. How much could they potentially earn in a month?

Some couldn’t help but utter sour remarks in her presence, all of which Qiao Xuan skillfully deflected with a smile.

She preferred not to retaliate, as she didn’t want to come across as confrontational.

However, one day, someone visited the East Palace, and Princess Consort personally sent a message, informing her of their plan to visit the Fourth Prince’s residence for a flower-viewing event the next day. It was an invitation extended by the Fourth Princess Consort.

Qiao Xuan couldn’t decline Princess Consort’s request, but inwardly, she felt a tinge of annoyance.

What was the Fourth Princess Consort’s intent? If she genuinely wanted Qiao Xuan as a guest, she could have simply sent an invitation.

Yet, instead of mailing an invitation, she had Princess Consort deliver the message personally.