Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Officer Qiao's warm reception and his enthusiastic greeting to Shao Yunduan as "the best son-in-law" was a noticeable change in attitude. Qiao Xuan observed that even Madame Qiao, despite her feigned aloofness, was secretly pleased to receive them, along with the servants. Even Concubine Du and Qiao Kou, who had never experienced such treatment before, were included in the warm welcome.
Qiao Wei couldn't help but size up Qiao Xuan once again. She was adorned in a vibrant water-red satin embroidered with delicate primroses and a butterfly pattern, paired with a light beige thread-stitched long skirt. The ensemble beautifully accentuated her slim and graceful figure. Her ebony bun was immaculately styled, and the elegant hairpin adorned with pearls, pomegranate, and magnolia flowers added a touch of luxury and sophistication.
Qiao Xuan's elegance emanated not from excessive ornamentation but from her refined demeanor, exuding a sense of nobility and propriety.
Qiao Wei couldn't help but feel a pang of envy. She reluctantly acknowledged that a well-dressed appearance enhanced a person's overall beauty. Seeing Qiao Xuan, who used to appear introverted, now radiating with confidence, she couldn't deny the transformative power of clothing.
Qiao Wei couldn't help but fixate on Qiao Xuan's bracelets once again.
Another new pair? She thought to herself.
This time, Qiao Xuan adorned her wrists with a pair of intricately carved gold bangles, adorned with several lustrous pearls.
The oval-shaped gold bracelets featured elaborate floral motifs, intricately sculpted and polished to perfection. Several snow-white pearls, each the size of a thumb, were meticulously embedded throughout the design. The edges of the bracelets were accented with a delicate tortoiseshell inlay, providing a subtle yet opulent contrast to the modest gold hue.
While gold bracelets were not uncommon, a pair with such large and exquisite pearls was truly a rare find.
"First Madame certainly treats you well, sister. Did she gift you these magnificent bracelets too?" Qiao Wei asked with a tinge of bitterness, aware that her question was laced with envy.
After all, every young girl had a fondness for beautiful, exquisite, and precious jewelry.
Qiao Wei, who had recently splurged on some new ornaments from the province, had planned to flaunt them in front of Qiao Xuan. However, her confidence waned as she glanced at her own bracelets, which had cost her 1,000 liang after days of pestering her parents.
Qiao Xuan responded with a gentle smile. "Yes, Elder Aunt Yuezheng has always been kind to me. She even wanted to make me her goddaughter, but I declined because I don't believe I deserve such an honor. Nevertheless, she sees me as a good person and treats me accordingly."
"What?" Madame Qiao exclaimed, a pang of disappointment washing over her. Though upon reflection, she realized that Qiao Xuan's refusal was probably for the best. Otherwise, she might have become more unruly.
However, deep down, Madame Qiao couldn't help but feel a slight sense of injustice based on Qiao Xuan's words. Naturally, she assumed that if the First Madame wished to accept Qiao Xuan as her goddaughter, her own daughter should also be considered.
After all, her own daughter was surely superior to Qiao Xuan, wasn't she?
Madame Qiao entertained the idea of finding a godmother for her daughter. The Yuezheng Family, being a prosperous business family, held significant influence, and establishing a connection with them would undoubtedly bring numerous advantages.
The jealousy of Qiao Kou and Qiao Wei towards Qiao Xuan was evident as they couldn't help but sneer. They believed that Qiao Xuan was fabricating her claims, insisting that the First Madame would never have liked her.
"She's just bragging," Qiao Kou muttered under her breath, while Qiao Wei nodded in agreement.
Qiao Xuan, sensing their disbelief, found amusement in their reactions. She smiled, feeling a sudden urge to find a peaceful spot for a nap. She wondered if there was a suitable place available for her.
Deep down, Qiao Xuan acknowledged the strained relationship she had with her lineal mother and stepsister. Aware that they were obligated to treat her cordially under her father's watchful eye, she saw no point in prolonging their interactions if they truly disliked one another.
After all, she considered herself considerate in avoiding unnecessary confrontations with them.
As for finding a place to rest, Madame Qiao had arranged a small courtyard for her through Auntie Ling, ensuring that Qiao Xuan did get a designated space of her own..