Reborn as the Blissful Wife in the countryside Chapter 1231: Rushing Home for Gossip

Finally, Father's smile illuminated his face as he declared, "My heart knows its path, resolute and unyielding, unbothered by worldly judgments or trials. Ming'er, though you are young and may not grasp these words fully now, should you ever find yourself championing a belief that others dismiss, recall your father's counsel. It shall surely serve you."

Each time Ouyang Ming reflected on her father's profound words, a comforting warmth bloomed within her soul.

Consequently, she remained unfazed by whispers labeling her an orphan, devoid of parental or fraternal support, or even suggestions of a solitary, fated existence.

She possessed an inner conviction, charting her own course with an unwavering spirit, fearless in the face of any opposition.

"Nanny, the sun shines so beautifully today. Once we've organized the compensation gifts, let's move the books, paintings, and other items susceptible to moisture to the courtyard for airing. This will ensure their better preservation," Ouyang Ming suggested with a gentle smile, retrieving several sheets of silver frost paper, one of the four valuable gifts, and placing them near the Criminal Law text.

Mrs. Han felt a pang of concern. This very silver frost paper had been a bequest from the Old Master, signifying its considerable worth.

Yet, observing the serene smile gracing her young lady's features, Mrs. Han bit back her cautionary words. After diligently preparing the compensation gifts for Gu Jin'an, the mistress and her maidservant proceeded to transport the books and paintings into the courtyard, their movements both purposeful and content.

Ouyang Yu, residing in the same courtyard as Ouyang Ming, witnessed this activity from her chambers, letting out a disdainful snort. "Drying them out for a display of your wealth? Weren't they all gifts from Second Uncle!"

A wave of bitterness washed over Ouyang Yu. Despite Ouyang Ming's lack of immediate family, she had inherited a substantial estate from her Second Uncle and Second Aunt, whereas Ouyang Yu was compelled to divide her inheritance among her own siblings. By the time her share was allocated, little remained.

And then there was Grandmother!

Upon Grandmother's passing, moved by pity for the orphaned Ouyang Ming, she bequeathed half of her personal dowry to her. The other grandchildren received merely a box of Grandmother’s personal effects, with no truly valuable items among them.

Recalling these injustices ignited Ouyang Yu's fury, and she sharply addressed her maid, "How is that fan moving? There's no force behind it; I'm becoming quite warm."

"Forgive me, Miss Wu," the maid hastily responded, increasing the tempo of her fanning.

Still displeased, Ouyang Yu wrinkled her nose and called out towards the courtyard, "Third Sister, what precisely are you airing out there? A peculiar scent is drifting this way. You should bring them inside promptly, before a sudden storm ruins everything!"

Nanny Li softly advised, "Miss, a portion of those items are legacies from the Second Old Master and Second Madam. It is improper to speak of them in such a manner; if this were to become known, you would be deemed disrespectful."

While Nanny Li harbored no fondness for Ouyang Ming, as Miss Wu's attendant, she could not stand idly by while her charge committed such a significant social gaffe. Should her words be misconstrued, even the servants would face repercussions.

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Yu's face flushed with anger. She longed to retort but restrained herself, mindful of her reputation. Ultimately, she slammed the window shut with a resounding thud, choosing to avert her gaze.

Shan Cong quietly murmured, "Truly, what is their issue with blaming the smell?"

These items were meticulously preserved, regularly aired, and treated with both moth-repellent and fragrant agents. How could they possibly emit an odor? Miss Wu was clearly fabricating a grievance.

"Shan Cong, cease these words. Refrain from speaking with such discontent in the future," Ouyang Ming gently chided her companion. After all, Xiao Wu was her cousin, and speaking ill of someone behind their back was improper conduct. It was far better to voice concerns directly, earning a reputation for candidness.

Though Shan Cong harbored her own frustrations with Ouyang Yu, she wished to spare Ouyang Ming any trouble and thus nodded in agreement. "Yes, this servant was mistaken."

The group of mistress and servant toiled in the courtyard for two hours. Upon completing their tasks, Ouyang Ming's thoughts turned to Brother Cheng, and she led Shan Ru to the kitchen to personally prepare two types of pastries as a token of her gratitude.

Consequently, late that afternoon, when Brother Cheng concluded his studies early, he was presented not only with the compensation gift intended for Gu Jin'an but also with four boxes brimming with pastries.

Brother Cheng's face lit up with delight as he exclaimed, "They smell wonderful! What delectable delights are these? Are they all for me?"

Ouyang Ming smiled warmly. "Grandfather spoke the truth when he mentioned your fondness for eating. These four boxes of pastries serve a dual purpose: two are for your trouble in running errands, and the other two are for you to share with Brother Fa and your friends. You study and travel together, so it wouldn't be right for you to hoard them."

With that, he offered Ouyang Ming a respectful bow. Second Sister had impressed upon him the importance of maintaining a good relationship with his elder sister-in-law for a prosperous future. Even if he wasn't entirely sure if Third Sister would indeed become his sister-in-law, showing respect to his elder brother's beloved was certainly the right course of action.

Ouyang Ming, having grown up without any brothers of her own, often daydreamed about the joy of having a sibling. Brother Cheng was an endearing and well-behaved child, and she found herself quite fond of him.

"Third Sister, what delicacies are these? Did you prepare them yourself?" Brother Cheng inquired, knowing that his elder brother would undoubtedly ask about them upon his return home. He wanted to be fully informed to relay the details to Big Brother.

Ouyang Ming responded, "These are Jade Cakes and Small Heavenly Crisps. The Jade Cake is a vegetarian sweet, crafted from mung beans blended with tea, offering a refreshing taste and a fragrant tea aroma, perfect for dispelling heat. It is an ideal treat for this season. As for the Small Heavenly Crisp, it is a savory confection made with chicken, a delicacy originating from the imperial court."

Brother Cheng's eyes sparkled as he looked up at Ouyang Ming, "Third Sister, may I present the Jade Cake to Big Brother? He has quite a liking for these types of pastries."

A moment of hesitation crossed Ouyang Ming's face before she turned to Shan Ru, saying, "We should have one Jade Cake remaining; please pack that one for Brother Cheng to take home."

She also held a fondness for the Jade Cake, having intended to keep one for herself. However, at Brother Cheng's earnest request, she readily agreed to part with it.

"Certainly," Shan Ru replied. She returned to the courtyard, carefully wrapped the remaining Jade Cake, and presented it, saying, "Young Master Gu Er, here you are."

"Thank you, Sister Shan Ru," Brother Cheng beamed, his eyes crinkling into happy slits. He couldn't help but wonder how highly his elder brother would praise him for bringing back such a delightful pastry.

Eagerly anticipating his elder brother's commendation, Brother Cheng quickly took his leave, saying, "Third Sister, it is growing late, and Brother Wang and the others are still awaiting me. I must depart now."

"Very well," Ouyang Ming acknowledged. She then instructed Shan Ru and Mrs. Han to escort Brother Cheng out, assisting him with carrying his belongings.

Brother Cheng offered his gratitude to Mrs. Han once more before departing, clutching the box of pastries.

In his haste to return home and partake in the anticipated discussion about his elder brother, Brother Cheng urged Da Tuan onward, "Da Tuan, faster, faster!"

Responding to the encouragement, Da Tuan quickened their pace, and they arrived at their destination within the hour.

Brother Cheng burst through the entrance of the house, parcels in hand, exclaiming, "Big Brother, Big Brother! Your little brother has returned and brought you a wonderful treat, personally prepared by Third Sister!"