Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife Chapter 1630 - 1631: Valued

~3 minute read · 854 words
Previously on Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife...
Mother Cheng and Mother Qi engage in a conversation filled with mutual flattery. Mother Cheng praises the Qi family's success in raising accomplished children, particularly their ability to get into college and secure good futures. Mother Qi reciprocates by commending Mother Cheng's son, Jianguo, and her daughter-in-law, highlighting their suitability as a couple. The conversation touches upon the challenges of finding a well-matched partner and the envy the Qi family’s prosperity elicits from others. Mother Qi also expresses concern about her grandson, Qi Xiaoqi, not being particularly close to her.

Mother Cheng and Mother Qi, the two matriarchs, engaged in pleasantries, exchanging compliments about their offspring. Meanwhile, the gentlemen and Cheng Su were immersed in discussions of business. Jianguo and Cheng Zhi, being close in age, found themselves on different conversational paths.

To foster a more intimate atmosphere for discussion, the Cheng family had designated a separate table for Cheng Su’s immediate family and her in-laws. Ning Ge, present as a friend, was also seated at this table due to his connection with Cheng Su. Initially, Cheng Su’s name card had been placed at the head family’s table; as Old Master Cheng’s goddaughter and a figure of familial respect akin to an aunt, her presence at the main table would have been fitting.

However, Cheng Su, demonstrating her perceptiveness, chose to sit at the designated table, ostensibly to keep her family company. Despite this, she was frequently summoned to the main table for interactions.

The ceremony commenced with the entrance of the newlyweds, followed by the emcee’s exposition on traditional etiquettes and a lighthearted game. Subsequently, the parents from both the Cheng and Ying families delivered their opening addresses. Ying Xiaoya then retired to change her attire, and the grand banquet officially began.

The service provided by the Five-star Hotel was exemplary, with attendants offering hot towels to each guest for hand hygiene. For those accustomed to such establishments, this was a familiar and routine gesture, handled with practiced ease.

For Mother Cheng and Mother Qi, however, this was a novel experience. They observed their surroundings and others with keen interest, subtly trying to emulate the etiquette.

"Cheng Su possesses a remarkable presence," Mother Qi remarked to Mother Cheng, noting Cheng Su’s unhurried and elegant demeanor, which exuded an indefinable grace. She privately marveled at how a young woman with rural origins could project such poise and dignity.

In response, Mother Cheng offered, "You may not be aware, but she is an avid reader. Perhaps she has acquired such refinement from her studies."

Mother Qi accepted this explanation, finding it plausible. Otherwise, how could Cheng Su exhibit such sophisticated bearing?

Unbeknownst to them, for Cheng Su, such sophisticated service was merely par for the course. In truth, the current level of service still fell short of the standards she had experienced in hotels during her previous life.

Nevertheless, by the prevailing standards of the era, the service was undeniably first-class.

Not long after the banquet’s commencement, Cheng Su was beckoned to the main table by Old Master Cheng, ostensibly to join Xiao Ya and others in proposing toasts to the guests.

Upon hearing the summons, Cheng Su delicately dabbed the corner of her lips with a napkin, entrusted Qi Xiaoqi to her mother’s care, and proceeded to the main table.

"It appears the Cheng family holds their daughter-in-law in high regard!" Mother Qi observed aloud.

They even included her in the ceremonial toasting, genuinely treating her as an integral member of the family!

Third Uncle Cheng chimed in, "Indeed, whenever I pay a visit, they consistently speak of Susu with great affection."

Mother Cheng responded with evident pride, "This is a fortune she has earned through her own merit."

Mother Qi let out a soft sigh.

The newlyweds, accompanied by their attendants, participated in the toasting ritual, signifying respect towards the assembled guests by sharing in their drinks. Members of the Cheng family, alongside Ying Jian’s parents, joined the newlyweds in this process, forming a rather imposing group for the toasts.

As the procession reached Mother Cheng’s table, naturally, a profusion of compliments was directed towards Cheng Su, and even Xiao Qi, who was being held, received warm regards.

Cheng Su’s parents, along with Father Qi, were visibly pleased. After all, it was a member of their own kin who was being so highly valued; their happiness was naturally profound.

Following a round of toasts, Cheng Su’s cheeks displayed a faint flush. Seated beside her, Ning Ge offered her a cup of tea, remarking with a hint of jest, "To the uninformed observer, you might easily be mistaken for the bride, engaging in so many toasts."

Cheng Su shot him a playful glare. "Xiao Ya is the bride. As her close friend, it is only fitting that I assist her by receiving a few toasts on her behalf. How else would the auspiciousness of the occasion be fully realized?"

Ning Ge was taken aback, his lips pursed as he muttered, "You truly have no subtle bone in your body."

Cheng Su replied casually, "We are all familiar with each other; there is no need for pretense." She then added with a smile, "Remember when we were all young, playing and joking? Now, Xiao Ya and I are both married women. When is your turn? I shall help you receive drinks then too!"

Ning Ge instinctively rubbed his nose, attempting to deflect the playful banter. "Eat up, eat up. This braised sea cucumber is exceptionally delicious." Apprehensive of further teasing, he wisely shifted his focus to the meal.