"By the way, listening to your father's account of this matter reminds me a bit of when I fell off a cliff and forgot about my past. However, I haven't seen him yet. Judging by this fabric, I wonder if it might be related to the people in the capital.
Xiaobei, mum came to tell you that your eldest uncle's fleet will arrive at Dongbin tomorrow. After paying respects to Prince Mo, they'll head to Zebei Town and should arrive by the afternoon. It's a good opportunity for him to meet the injured and see if it triggers any memories," Mrs. Huo paused for a moment, then continued with some embarrassment,
"Xiaobei, the family has relied on you all these years. This is the first time your eldest uncle is coming, and he's bringing the dowry for me. Since he will bring quite a few people, I want to properly treat them. However, I'm not sure about the current situation at the estate."
"You don't need to worry about that. Our lives have been better lately, and I'll make sure everything is well arranged. You just focus on spending time with eldest uncle and enjoying the scenery here.
Regarding gifts, I'll think about it and discuss with you later. Also, the road up the mountain is not easy to travel, and transportation is inconvenient for a large quantity of items. I was thinking, considering that Sinan is getting to the age for formal education, I bought a compound near the school in town under his name. Maybe you could temporarily store the wedding convoy and significant items there?"
Miss. Huo, now Mrs Tong, with a slightly excited demeanor, stood up and gently brushed Xiaobei's long hair, looking deeply into her youthful face and those mature, resolute eyes.
"Xiaobei, thank you. It's really hard on you for taking care of your little brother. Mother will arrange a grand coming-of-age ceremony for you. In the future, I won't let you suffer like this again."
"Mother, SiNan is my younger brother, and thinking for him is only natural. Prince Mo is not in Dongbin now. You can have your uncle dock the ship directly at the pier on the south side of Fuhai Building. Besides the items for the estate, the rest can be sent directly to our house. Bro Cheng is familiar with matters in town; let him handle it. You guide me on arranging the welcoming banquet tonight."
"Xiaobei, thank you for your thoughtful consideration. But how did you know Prince Mo is not in Dongbin? You haven't come down the mountain these days, and your eldest uncle's fleet has quite a few people. Considering this, should we discuss using the pier at Fuhai Building with the Eastern household?"
"Mother, as a noble lady marrying a rustic man like my father, it's only proper to host my eldest uncle well. Don't worry; I'll make sure to treat him properly and give a substantial gift, ensuring he remembers the hospitality of our mountain.
Prince Mo usually stays at the Zebei Manor. If you need to contact him, go directly to Fuhai Building. He is the owner there, and using his pier is not a problem." Xiaobei nonchalantly took charge of the situation, leaving Mrs. Tong with a vague sense of unease.
"Xiaobei, Prince Mo is a noble of the royal family. You should address him as 'Your Highness.' You must not call him directly, do you understand? Can you tell mother if you and Prince Mo, you two, are...?"
"No, Mother, where are you getting these thoughts? I have business dealings with Fuhai Building and Brother Ziqiu, and Prince Mo is closer to my age. We get along well as business partners; there's no issue with addressing him informally."
"That's good. Prince Mo isn't suitable for you. Your brother ZiQiu from the Qiao family is a bit older, but I've watched him grow up. He was sensible and kind-hearted from a young age. In these years, he has matured and become even more gentle. Spending more time with him, you will discover his virtues. Mother has no ulterior motives; I genuinely care for you."
"Xiaobei understands. Which mother in the world doesn't love her child? I promise Mother I will consider it seriously. Now, our top priority is to receive Eldest Uncle. I'll make a list first, and I'll show it to you during the evening meal, alright?"
"Okay, then you go ahead. If you need help with sewing, I can have Holan assist you."
"No need. I've been handling the sewing at home for these years, just a few simple stitches. Mother, take care." Xiaobei escorted Mrs. Huo and Tong Jing out, and when she looked back at the silver shirt, it was no longer there. After a while, Chengmo came out from behind the screen, sat quietly at the table, and anyone with keen eyes could tell he was was angry, and not lightly so.