The Noble Lady's Rebirth: She just wants to Rest in Peace!-Chapter 339 - 331: Gathering

During this time, Wu Xueqin sent invitations to every mansion, and with the date approaching, Lin Youning, having regained some strength and feeling less discomfort, wondered what Wu Xueqin wanted from her.

Lin Youning was preparing to attend Wu Xueqin’s banquet when Mrs. Dong, upon hearing this, dismissed all the servants in the room, leaving only Sister Hui to speak with.

"Isn’t she often unwell? How come she can attend a banquet? Are you sure about this? It’s rather strange. If that’s the case, when you attend the banquet over there, discreetly observe if there’s anything particular."

Sister Hui was puzzled by her mother’s words, "Mother, what are you trying to find out by saying such things? After all, although the two mansions are now separate, we used to live together. Mother, please don’t do such things that might upset Father. His visits might become even less frequent."

"You don’t understand the situation. Just do as I say and don’t worry about the rest. As for your father, I have my own thoughts. You needn’t concern yourself with these matters. You’ve seen it over the years; even after I bore Brother Zong, your father didn’t seem particularly pleased." Mrs. Dong spoke candidly with her daughter.

Upon hearing her mother’s words, Sister Hui couldn’t help but feel upset, "Mother, how can you say that? You know why your relationship with Father is like this. As your daughter, I can’t meddle in your affairs, but how can I not worry about you? Mother, please heed my advice: don’t inquire about matters of the East Mansion any further."

"Who said I’m probing into their affairs? Alright, alright, why am I telling you this? You’re still so young, these matters are beyond your concern. You’re going to attend the banquet, and although you’re engaged, you still need social interactions. Prepare well, you’ve been managing the mansion’s affairs all these years. As for how to conduct yourself at the banquet, you should know, I needn’t say more." Mrs. Dong was evidently a little impatient.

Sister Hui knew her mother was getting impatient, feeling a surge of anger yet unsure what to say, she could only bow and leave.

After watching her daughter leave, Mrs. Dong slapped her hand on the table in frustration, feeling dissatisfied with her daughter’s lack of understanding. Nonetheless, she refrained from harsh words, contemplating that her daughter was to be married next year. It wouldn’t do to alienate her over a year’s time.

Sister Hui was displeased inside, aware of her mother’s instability, something even her maternal grandmother knew. Her great aunt looked down on her mother, which was evident to her. If it weren’t for her grandmother’s intervention, her great aunt wouldn’t have chosen her as her son-in-law’s fiancée.

When Sister Hui returned to her courtyard, she found Sister Jian and Sister Ran waiting. With a smile, she said, "Both my elder and younger sisters are here. My jewelry and clothes just arrived, I was about to have a maid call for you, so you might as well choose some."

Sister Ran, however, looked displeased, "I suppose you’ve already chosen the best. What’s the point of inviting us over? Might as well have the maids deliver them directly."

Given that Mrs. Dong was not favored by the Marquis at the Marquis Mansion, Sister Ran naturally didn’t give much regard to Sister Hui’er. Besides, as Sister Jian and Sister Ran had reached marriageable age, Mrs. Dong, their legitimate mother, hadn’t arranged marriages for them, which was a sore spot for Sister Ran.

Such matters remained unspoken by their legitimate mother, and as young ladies, how could they broach the subject? Seeing Sister Hui’s engagement settled, Sister Jian stayed quiet due to her good nature, but Sister Ran wouldn’t tolerate it and often showed her displeasure towards Sister Hui when together.

Sister Hui’er did not take offense, knowing her mood wasn’t good, and invited them inside with a smile. She served tea and had the items brought in. Sister Ran picked a few items she liked and left, citing other matters. Sister Jian, feeling embarrassed, stayed a while longer to chat with Sister Hui before departing.

Returning to Aunt Lv’s place, Sister Jian recounted the incident, but Aunt Lv was indifferent, "As long as you maintain appearances with Madam, that’s enough. Look at the current situation; even the Marquis doesn’t take her seriously. She just holds the title. Moreover, your disposition is too meek, you should learn from your younger sister. If she acts out, it’s for a reason. Madam, as the legitimate mother, hasn’t arranged marriages for you, and as an aunt, what suitable match can I find?"

"If things don’t work out with Mother, Aunt should consider seeking Grandmother’s help. After all, we’re daughters of the Marquis Mansion; Grandmother can’t ignore us." Sister Jian realized there was no other way.

Aunt Lv nodded at her daughter’s suggestion, "Your idea could work. The old lady is wise and considerate, I’ll make time to visit her and discuss it. However, given her temperament, she might find a common family, which would not lead to an easy life after marriage."

This was why Aunt Lv hadn’t sought the old lady’s help over the years, hoping Mrs. Dong would consider their familial ties and find good matches for her daughters. However, it became clear that Mrs. Dong was preoccupied with her issues and had no time for them. 𝐟𝚛𝕖𝚎𝕨𝗲𝐛𝚗𝐨𝐯𝐞𝕝.𝐜𝗼𝗺

After speaking with Aunt Lv, Sister Jian returned to her courtyard, and two days later, several young ladies from the Marquis Mansion took a carriage to Wu Xueqin’s residence.

Lin Youning wasn’t in a hurry. Being pregnant, it was advisable not to travel during the first three months, especially with signs of a potential miscarriage. However, Wu Xueqin’s persistent invitations made it unavoidable. Lin Youning was curious about her real intention.

By the time Lin Youning arrived at Wu Xueqin’s, it was noon, and the Wu Mansion had set the table. Though arriving later, Wu Xueqin warmly welcomed her to the main guest table.

At this table, Lin Youning recognized several individuals, including Wu Xueya and Feng Yufu.