Chapter Thirty-Two: The Ancestor Is Not Fierce

The first meeting was rather awkward.

But Song Ci thought to herself, as long as she didn't feel awkward, it was others who would. Look, weren't those three daughters-in-law all wearing embarrassed expressions?

She had no intention of making things difficult for them, so she turned her gaze to the two children, smiling gently. "What are your names? How old are you?"

Madam Lu quickly signaled to the children.

Song Ru Wei stepped forward with composure, kneeling to perform a formal salute. "Granddaughter Song Ru Wei, eight years old, greets Grandmother. Wishing Grandmother good fortune."

Song Ling Zhou followed his sister's example, bowing his head. "Grandson Ling Zhou, six years old, greets Grandmother. May Grandmother be well."

Song Ci, smiling warmly, beckoned to them. Song Ru Wei did not hesitate, taking her brother's hand and walking forward.

She studied the pair; they were likely the youngest masters in the household, their features delicate and charming. The little boy was plump, as round as a steamed bun.

"How did you become such a chubby little fellow? Did you get fat from eating noodles every day in Shanxi? Or was it the beef and milk?"

Ling Zhou stared with wide eyes. "Great-grandmother, how did you know I eat those every day?"

"Isn't Shanxi famous for these things? As for how I know, it's simply hearsay," Song Ci replied, laughing.

Seeing her so kind, not at all as stern as he had imagined, Ling Zhou relaxed, his voice clear and bright. "Great-grandmother, you're amazing. I drink milk and eat noodles every day. My father always says boys should grow strong, so I eat beef, sesame cakes, fried pastries..."

Song Ci watched him count off his foods on his chubby little fingers, and couldn't help but feel a bit envious. "With all these delicious treats, it's no wonder you became a little chubby."

Ling Zhou puffed out his chest. "Great-grandmother, I'm not fat, just sturdy. When I grow taller, I'll slim down."

Watching his serious expression, Song Ci laughed aloud. "Yes, yes, it's my fault for choosing the wrong words. When our Zhou grows up, he’ll certainly be handsome and successful."

Ling Zhou, puzzled, asked, "Grandmother, what does 'handsome and successful' mean?"

"It means you'll be tall, wealthy, and good-looking."

Ling Zhou felt a bit shy, replying softly, "I might not grow into that, but I'll try my best. I won't disappoint Grandmother by growing crooked."

Everyone laughed at his words.

"Drinking milk is good for you, especially since you're still young. You need proper nutrition," Song Ci said, looking at the Lady of the House. "Do we have any cows here? If not, make sure to buy a dairy cow. If that's not possible, goat's milk will do, so he can keep drinking it. Otherwise, he just returned and a sudden change of habits would surely be uncomfortable."

The Lady of the House responded with a smile, "Mother, please rest assured, we have everything needed."

Song Ci nodded and had Madam Gong bring over the prepared gifts for the children. She gave Song Ru Wei a ruby necklace, and Ling Zhou received a longevity lock inlaid with mutton-fat jade—both exquisite and valuable.

Madam Lu watched, her heart relieved; it seemed her mother-in-law truly cared for the children, especially Zhou.

"You've just returned and must be tired from the journey. Your luggage needs sorting, so go back to your courtyard and rest. Tomorrow, Fourth Young Master and Su will return from the ancestral rites, and we’ll host a family banquet to welcome you," Song Ci said to Madam Lu. "Today, I happened to sort out some fabrics and jewelry; let your eldest sister-in-law divide them among you. Your share will be arranged, and sent to your courtyard later."

Madam Lu, feeling unexpectedly favored, bowed respectfully. "Mother’s concern for her daughter-in-law is deeply appreciated."

Song Ci, impatient with such formalities, dismissed them all.