Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 1667: Who Knows… This Weirdo

Qiao Xuan greeted everyone with a warm smile. “Let’s eat!”

Caught off guard, Mrs. Guan quickly composed herself and responded, “Yes, yes, please, please!”

Smiles and pleasantries were exchanged before everyone began partaking in the dishes presented.

Dish after dish was served, and, for the most part, Mrs. Guan had successfully organized the reception banquet. Any hiccups or mishaps would reflect on her, and the guests were well aware of this, with Qiao Xuan being absolved of any responsibility.

Mrs. Guan’s desire to embarrass Qiao Xuan remained unfulfilled, leaving her with no outlet for her frustration.

Aware of Qiao Xuan’s pregnancy, Mrs. Guan estimated that it hadn’t progressed beyond three months. As a mother of two, she possessed keen insights into the signs of pregnancy, particularly the early stages. During the initial three months, most pregnant women experienced nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and overall discomfort. In some cases, these symptoms could be quite severe, making even a few sips of water nauseating.

Given the strong aroma of the secret stinky fish, Mrs. Guan doubted that many outsiders could stomach it, let alone a pregnant woman in the early stages.

She secretly hoped Qiao Xuan would experience a bout of nausea or, better yet, vomit on the spot. Such an embarrassing spectacle would leave an indelible mark on the Prefect’s wife.

Regardless of future banquets in Anze Province, the memory of this reception would linger, stoking Mrs. Guan’s anger.

The more Mrs. Guan dwelled on it, the more she deemed it a brilliant idea.

She eagerly anticipated Qiao Xuan’s reaction, only to be met with bewilderment.

This odd woman, clearly in the early stages of pregnancy, managed to enjoy the stinky fish with a smile, even going so far as to praise its supposed “sunlight” aroma, which Mrs. Guan found non-existent.

Regret gnawed at Mrs. Guan. Had she foreseen this outcome, she might have prepared alternative dishes. Now, facing this awkward situation, she feared becoming the subject of mockery among the attending ladies.

As the banquet unfolded, the madams indulged in wine, contributing to a lively atmosphere. Pear Blossom Wine, with its mellow and moderately sweet flavor, was served. Qiao Xuan, sharing news of her pregnancy with a smile, received congratulations but refrained from drinking.

Fan Ruyin harbored regret, convinced that if Qiao Xuan weren’t pregnant, Mrs. Guan would persist in embarrassing her, perhaps urging everyone to toast her or even concocting some mischief in her drink—an entertaining scenario, in her opinion.

The banquet proceeded smoothly, and after consuming noodles, the madams strolled leisurely into the garden to digest their food, sipped tea, and engaged in conversations. Some took breaks to freshen up. Nearly an hour later, they regrouped to enjoy opera and other entertainment.

Qiao Xuan found herself in the parlor, engaged in conversation with several ladies.

Mrs. Guan had contemplated returning to her room for a wardrobe change but hesitated, reluctant to leave Qiao Xuan alone. Uncertain about the topic of discussion among the ladies, she decided to join them and engage in conversation.