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Qian Laoye personally welcomed them, and after exchanging a few pleasantries, they headed towards the study. Nangong Shuang stood to the side with her head bowed, not daring to look up directly. However, from the corner of her eye, she caught a glimpse of the brocade-robed man’s chest, where an inconspicuous emblem seemed to resemble the character "Xiao."
"Is this the one named Nangong Shuang?" the brocade-robed man suddenly asked as he approached.
Qian Laoye smiled and introduced her, "Indeed. This girl is clever and quick-witted, with an excellent memory. She is my daughter's new maid."
The brocade-robed man gave Nangong Shuang a meaningful glance. "Hmm, she certainly has an extraordinary presence."
Nangong Shuang respectfully bowed but did not dare to say more. The three entered the study, where Qian De stood at the door and gestured to Nangong Shuang to prepare the tea set.
Inside the study, Nangong Shuang began to brew tea on a small table as instructed by Qian De. Her movements were skilled and unhurried, each action adhering to proper etiquette. At the same time, she perked up her ears to listen carefully to the conversation between the two gentlemen.
"Lord Xiao, the goods have been arranged and will be ready to depart in three days," Qian Laoye said in a low voice. "However, the journey is long and may encounter some difficulties."
"That’s no problem," Lord Xiao—now confirmed as his name—responded calmly. "I have dispatched trusted aides along the way to ensure everything goes smoothly."
"You are very considerate," Qian Laoye complimented before changing the subject. "How is your son doing? My daughter Ruyi always speaks highly of him."
Lord Xiao smiled lightly. "My son has returned from his travels and has made considerable progress. However, about this marriage..."
Nangong Shuang's heart tightened. Were they going to discuss Xiao Zhongyan and Qian Ruyi's marriage?
"Is the tea ready?" Qian Laoye asked Nangong Shuang.
She quickly brought out the tea tray and presented the first cup with both hands. "Please enjoy, Lord Xiao."
Lord Xiao accepted the cup and savored it thoughtfully. "Excellent tea; you’ve mastered the timing perfectly."
Nangong Shuang then poured tea for Qian Laoye and stepped back to wait. The two gentlemen continued their conversation, but they shifted their topic to political affairs in court and no longer mentioned Xiao Zhongyan or Qian Ruyi.
About half an hour later, Qian De came in to collect the tea set and signaled that Nangong Shuang could leave. Just as she was about to take her leave, Lord Xiao suddenly spoke up: "This girl has an extraordinary demeanor; she doesn’t seem like an ordinary maid. Where did you find her, Brother Qian?"
Qian Laoye chuckled lightly. "Brother Xiao has a keen eye. This girl is indeed special; I heard she studied at a medical clinic and is well-versed in poetry and literature. Ruyi is quite fond of her. If you are interested, Brother Xiao, you might consider taking her back to your residence for your use?"
Lord Xiao looked intently at Nangong Shuang. "No need; your household must have its own plans for employing people."
Nangong Shuang felt a chill run down her spine; it seemed Lord Xiao's words hinted at something deeper, as if he had seen through her circumstances. She respectfully bowed and exited the study, letting out a long breath.
Just as she was about to return to Second Miss's courtyard, she saw Qian De coming out of the study who called out to her: "Nangong Shuang, come here for a moment."
Feeling a sense of caution but unable to refuse, she stepped forward. "What does Chief Steward need?"
Qian De handed her a small package. "This is silver awarded by Lord Xiao as a token of appreciation for your tea skills."
Nangong Shuang was taken aback by this unexpected honor. "What merit do I have that deserves such recognition from a lord?"
"Lord Xiao has always appreciated talent," Qian De said meaningfully. "However, while you may receive recognition, do not let it go to your head. The rules in the manor are strict, so be careful not to cross any boundaries."
Nangong Shuang understood that he was warning her not to meddle in affairs that did not concern her, and quickly replied, "Nangong Shuang understands and will certainly keep to her duties."
Only then did Qian De nod in satisfaction, but suddenly as if recalling something, he asked, "I heard you have some medical knowledge?"
"Just a little," Nangong Shuang answered modestly.
"Well, I will arrange for you to meet the old physician in the manor later so you can exchange ideas," Qian De said thoughtfully. "You may go now."
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