Doted By The Regent King-Chapter 576: The Magistrate’s Wife Comes to Visit

Wufu never expected that just because of purchasing a shop, she would be labeled as someone valued by Wen Congrui. She heard about it from Ah Jiu and didn’t take it seriously at first, not putting much stock in it. However, some people are intent on speculating, and sure enough, visitors started coming to her door.

Madam Zhou hurried into Wufu’s study with an invitation card, looking utterly incredulous as she asked, "Wufu, the Magistrate’s Wife has sent someone to deliver an invitation card. Could it be a mistake? We don’t know such people, do we?"

Wufu put down the carving knife in her hand and took a look. Wasn’t the signature that of the Magistrate’s Wife? ƒreewebɳovel.com

She raised her eyebrows; this was starting to get interesting.

The Magistrate’s Wife taking the initiative to visit their home, where only a mother and her daughter lived, led Wufu to believe that it was not because they were anything special, but rather due to the shop and the circumstances it had created.

Wufu said, "Mother, there might be some issues that need to be sorted out here. Just accept the invitation, and I will accompany you to meet her when the time comes."

Madam Zhou had always followed Wufu’s advice in such matters. If Wufu said they should meet, then they would meet. She also felt a hint of curiosity as to why the lady would pay them a visit.

After the Minor New Year, Lady Du, the Magistrate’s Wife, came to visit. Madam Zhou personally went to the entrance to greet her, accompanied by Qiu Xiang and Purple Jade, who were temporarily sent to make up the numbers.

"I’ve had the honor to meet Madam Yu," said Madam Zhou, greeting the Magistrate’s Wife, who was dressed in aquamarine attire and draped with an embroidered cloak with branching orchids, with a modest curtsy.

Madam Zhou had been briefed by Qiu Xiang and Purple Jade that the Magistrate’s spouse had not been granted an official title, so it was improper to call her "Madam" and more appropriate to address her as "Madam."

Of course, there were people who, out of flattery, would privately call her "Madam." That might pass in private, but such a term of address might be criticized or mocked in the households that cared deeply about propriety.

Lady Du was a person who could handle tricky situations gracefully. Hearing the title "Madam Yu," she pursed her lips slightly before her eyes brightened with a smile, and she stepped forward, taking Madam Zhou’s hand, "Mrs. Zhou, I hope you’ll forgive my boldness in disturbing you with my visit."

While she spoke, Lady Du discreetly eyed Madam Zhou from head to toe, her gaze lingering from her headpiece to her attire, her eyes darkening as she inwardly took a deep breath.

She had long since had Wu Residence thoroughly investigated, knowing it was home to a widow and her orphan daughter, and their background seemed somewhat disreputable. Madam Zhou was a gentle and meek character, not cut out for serious affairs, but it couldn’t be helped that she had raised a fine daughter.

It was said that the real head of the household was the girl named Wufu, who had a talent for carving and jade identification.

But even so, how much monthly money could a craftsman earn? Yet here Mrs. Zhou stood, dressed more exquisitely than even the Magistrate’s Wife herself. Her clothes were not opulent but perfectly fitting, with every piece of her jewelry being of fine quality.

Could it really be that mere jade carving had earned her such wealth?

Lady Du felt a tinge of jealousy but didn’t let it show on her face. She became even more convinced that it was that young girl who had caught the Lord Magistrate’s eye, resulting in their good fortune.

"Madam, it’s quite windy out here, shall we go inside to talk?" Qiu Xiang reminded her with a smile.

Madam Zhou busily ushered Lady Du indoors, saying, "Our home is humble and can’t compare to the splendor of the Rear Government Office. Please don’t laugh at us, Madam."

Lady Du followed her, taking in the surroundings with a scrutinizing yet subtly varying gaze, and smiled, "Oh no, the size of a mansion isn’t what matters. What’s important is that it’s well-appointed. I find your home to be quite delightful." Realizing she might have misspoken, she covered her mouth, adding, "Oh dear, look at me, I feel so at ease with you; I regard you with such warmth. I’m surely a few years older than you, so if I call you ’sister,’ Mrs. Zhou, I hope you won’t mind."

Far from minding, Madam Zhou felt unexpectedly honored and laughed nervously.