Now that the marriage between Huixin and Tao Qingnian had been settled, the Tao family, despite their reluctance, had to go through the process of formally asking for her hand. Northern people didn't have too many formalities. Cutting to the chase, it was time for the betrothal gift, which served to secure the engagement. The Tao family chose the eighth day of the tenth month to present the betrothal gift to the Xu family.
On the morning of the eighth, Zhixin got up early and cleaned the courtyard thoroughly. The children of the household were also tidied up neatly, and Mrs. Xue was in the kitchen preparing for today's banquet.
