Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife Chapter 1622 - 1623: Politeness Shouldn’t Be Taken Too Literally

After laying down some stark realities and worldly wisdom for Mother Cheng and the others, the lunchtime hour was fast approaching. Cheng Su then led a few elders to a renowned local eatery for some authentic regional afternoon tea. As they settled into their seats, observing individuals unhurriedly engrossed in newspapers, taking periodic sips of tea, and daintily nibbling on snacks, a sense of genuine contentment was palpable.

"I believe it's only in metropolises such as this that people can truly find peace of mind. Back home, we're constantly contending with the soil and the elements, toiling relentlessly from sunrise to sunset – where would we ever find the time for such leisurely pursuits of tea and newspapers? It's utterly exhausting," Mother Cheng expressed with a sigh.

Cheng Su responded, "Indeed, there's a culture of tea-drinking and conversation here, but not everyone experiences a sense of ease. Truthfully, countless individuals are grappling to make ends meet even in this city; there are numerous farmers striving just as diligently as we do!"

Guangcheng indeed blossomed in the 21st century; the rise of prosperous farmers also occurred during that epoch. One by one, affluent villages sprang into existence, and it wasn't uncommon for many farmers to suddenly attain millionaire status.

And in the present day, a multitude of farmers still exist, their numbers even exceeding those residing within the vibrant city centers.

"However, I hold the belief that true relaxation is to be found in Chengdu, Sichuan. Should the opportunity arise in the future, you absolutely must visit and experience it – there, people genuinely understand the art of unwinding, savoring tea, enjoying opera, and marveling at face-changing performances. Such tranquility!" Cheng Su reminisced about her own sojourn.

"You certainly possess a wealth of knowledge, young lady," Mother Cheng remarked, casting a sideways glance at her. Then, noticing Xiao Qi's gaze wandering, she inquired, "Didn't Second Brother Cheng request that you select a gift for Xiao Qi? Why did you opt for merely a small garment?"

Cheng Su deftly placed a crystal shrimp dumpling into her own bowl and countered, "What else would be appropriate? Clothing is a perfectly suitable gift, is it not?"

Mother Cheng found herself temporarily at a loss for words.

Mother Qi proposed, "Perhaps selecting a pair of silver bracelets would also be fitting, serving as a form of protection."

"We possess an abundance of those at home, and furthermore, he is but a young boy – bracelets would hardly suit him." Cheng Su retrieved a petite jade ring, affixed to a red string, from her son's collar, stating, "Wearing jade is also quite appropriate. This was a token from the esteemed elder of the Ning Family."

Although the old master of the Ning Family did not personally attend Xiao Qi's one-month celebration, he had dispatched Ning Ge to deliver a small piece of jade, intended to ward off malevolent influences, with the pronouncement that jade possesses nurturing properties. This thumb-sized jade ring, exceptionally refined, was subsequently placed upon her son by Cheng Su.

Mother Qi observed the jade, its lustrous sheen catching her eye, and remained silent for a moment.

"Second Brother Cheng is formally addressed as an uncle. While this is a matter of courtesy, we must refrain from exploiting such connections. Xiao Qi has already been bestowed with ample favor from the Cheng family, and I harbor concerns that excessive blessings might prove burdensome for him," Cheng Su elaborated.

Her words effectively rendered the two speechless. In essence, she believed that even when individuals extend courtesies, one should not perceive them as easy avenues for personal gain. To do so, while they might not voice their displeasure outwardly, could foster an internal perception of pettiness and avarice.

Moreover, anything Xiao Qi might require, could she not procure it for him herself? Items acquired through her own hard-earned money could be utilized with greater assurance and peace of mind.

Her relentless pursuit of business and investments was not solely for her own comfort – the ability to live, dine, and reside with ease – but also for the ultimate benefit of her entire family. And as her son, he was naturally privy to these advantages – such was the prerogative of being her child.

Once Cheng Su concluded her statement, both Mother Cheng and Mother Qi fell into a contemplative silence. Both held beliefs in deities and auspicious destinies – the notion that an excess of blessings could not be contained and might potentially result in unforeseen negative consequences, a truly unfortunate outcome.

Qi Xiaoqi, holding onto Cheng Su's finger, tilted his head upwards to meet her gaze. Upon seeing her smile, he parted his toothless mouth and erupted into gleeful laughter.