The women gathered together, chatting about jewelry, clothes, and men, as was their custom.
However, the Second Madam diverted the conversation in a unique direction, steering it toward television.
She said she had been bored recently and started watching a variety show.
"It's so entertaining! You'd never guess who I spotted on it."
Her attempt at suspense lacked sophistication. Everyone present was astute enough to infer her intentions the moment she mentioned the show.
The older women, unwilling to muddy the waters, focused on their snacks and tea, pretending not to hear her.
But the Third Madam, with deliberate nonchalance, spoke up. "Oh? And who did you see? An old acquaintance?"
The Second Madam clapped her hands and grinned. "Exactly, an old acquaintance! I had no idea Tao Jing had returned to the country. She's as beautiful as ever, almost unchanged."
As she spoke, her eyes drifted meaningfully toward Qiao Yu.
