As his older cousin, he stood beside Tang Shunyan, not quite resembling an elder brother, more like a younger one.
He harbored no jealousy or envy, as each individual’s mindset is distinct.
The higher the capability, the better it might be for oneself, but if it means having too many responsibilities one doesn’t wish to undertake,
what of the loss of more free time!
Just like his father, involved in managing the family business, he seemed to have more free time than Tang Shunyan’s father.
Life is but a few short decades, having money is good as long as there’s enough—this is not a perspective many can appreciate.
As a member of the Tang Family, some cannot see past petty conflicts, while others do and live much happier lives, enjoying wealth and luxury while doing what they wish.
Tang Xiyue felt that compared to Tang Shunyan, though he was not as smart—a fact he acknowledged—and his other abilities were not as strong, he did have much more free time, which he cherished the most.
Elders always compared the younger relatives; sometimes he grew impatient upon hearing it. If one were a bit narrow-minded, he couldn’t be friends with his cousin.
Even among these siblings, comparisons to Tang Shunyan were inevitable in their household.
After Qiu Xia had left for a while, she entered a place, and soon after, she emerged.
Then, followed by a person dressed as a housekeeper, she walked over to attend to them.
"Young Master, I have brought the housekeeper here for you."
Then, the housekeeper bowed deeply to Tang Shunyan.
"This humble one greets the Young Master!"
"Mhm, tell me, do we have any boats here for us to play with?"
Still bowing, the housekeeper replied without it affecting his capacity to speak:
"The owners always prepare boats for their leisure here. If there’s a plan to come play, they’d inform us in advance. Today, there happens to be a small boat available. Your father and his friends are currently enjoying themselves on the larger boat."
Upon hearing this, Tang Shunyan understood that his father had also made plans to come out and have fun.
Perhaps with business associates, or perhaps friends made here.
Not having told him in advance, it was definitely not a trip that included his mother or his concubines, nor his brothers.
With his grandfather no longer indulging in such pleasures, the Tang Family members found their own entertainment.
Not crowding together here was perfect, as they had their own spaces to enjoy themselves.
Tang Shunyan was even more certain that it wasn’t just these few small boats—there were larger ships as well.
They had fleets of ships that sailed the seas and shipyards that built them. But the lake was rather small, limiting the number of vessels available for play.
Guided by the housekeeper, Tang Shunyan and a few friends, accompanied by some staff, boarded the small boat.
Though deemed a small boat, it was actually quite sizable, sheltered from wind and rain, and could accommodate a couple of tables.
They, just a few children, had brought along their attendants.
The housekeeper also dispatched some workers skilled in watercraft. They were there not just to serve food on the shoreline; they also prepared the food, ready to take the guests out to the lake center or to wander around, depending on the customers’ or the owner’s wishes.
Tang Shunyan and his young friends boarded the boat, and as they sat down,
they discovered that although it wasn’t huge, food and drinks could be served promptly and a stove provided warmth.
Eating here had one particular advantage: if desired, there would be musicians or singers to entertain.
The attendants of these Young Masters, while waiting for their food, also sought seating, mindful not to stumble on the rocking boat, regardless of gender. Some sat down at another table on the other side.
The water-savvy staff weren’t idle; they served the food and drinks and even arranged for music and singing on the spot.
Tang Shunyan and his companions began to relish their meal, enjoying the music and songs.
Unbeknownst to them, onshore, many rich families’ daughters and sons’ attendants heard that several children, along with their company, had secured a spot without waiting and were already savoring food and drinks.
When they informed their Young Masters and Ladies, those from wealthy families immediately made a fuss at the establishment.
"Excuse me, what’s the meaning of this? We’ve been waiting so long with no seats, and those kids get on the boat without a hitch?"
"Are you looking down on us? You think we don’t have money? That’s so ignorant!"
"How much did they pay? We’ll pay the same, even more if necessary."
Not just the young Masters were angry, the Ladies were as well; they had come to this place for a romantic setting.