For some reason, Zhao Xiue's slap didn't land on Erlang's face but on his chest instead. Remembering what she had just seen, Aunt Sun and Xiao Hong's extraordinary attire, their imposing demeanor, and the cabinets full of gift boxes, cloth, and pastry boxes made Zhao Xiue's heart flutter, and her hand weaken. She straightened Erlang's clothes and, with a smile on her face, turned around and hurried to work with a spring in her step.
The meal was ready, and Lady Zhou still gave Lady Gu some dignity, allowing her to join Aunt Sun for dinner, along with Lady Chiang. From beginning to end, Lady Zhou ignored Zhao Xiue, but she didn't send her away either. It wasn't until the guests had finished their meal that the daughters-in-law working at home could eat. That was when Zhao Xiue moved to join them at the table.
"Old Second's wife," Lady Zhou called Lady He, pointing at Zhao Xiue, "don't eat yet. Take her back to the Zhao family first, and eat when you come back."
