Su Yuntang returned to Guiyun Courtyard and sat down by the stone table.
Hong Xiu noticed her unusual expression and asked with concern, "Second Young Mistress, you don't look well. Are you tired?"
"It's nothing, just go brew a pot of tea," Su Yuntang waved her hand, leaning back in her chair to rest her eyes.
Lu Ao, who was nearby arranging chrysanthemums in a vase, came over upon hearing the conversation. "Would you like me to massage your temples?"
"No need for that. You've all worked hard; take some time to rest when you can."
As they spoke, footsteps were heard from outside the courtyard.
Liu Mama entered, looking somewhat anxious. "Second Young Mistress, Eldest Young Master has arrived."
Su Yuntang was taken aback and quickly stood up to adjust her clothing. "Eldest Young Master?"
Before she could finish her sentence, Long Xiao stepped through the courtyard door, dressed in a deep blue robe embroidered with gold. A young servant followed behind him, carrying a food box.
"Little sister-in-law," Long Xiao clasped his hands together in greeting. "Congratulations on your marriage! I have no business today, so I came to see how you two are doing."
Su Yuntang performed a proper bow. "I greet you, elder brother."
"Ah, we are all family; no need for such formalities," Long Xiao waved his hand, his gaze lingering on Su Yuntang's face for too long. "Little sister-in-law is truly beautiful; no wonder Long Xi is reluctant to leave home after the wedding."
Liu Mama cleared her throat beside them. "Eldest Young Master, the Second Young Master is not in the courtyard today. If you are looking for him..."
"Not here?" Long Xiao interrupted Liu Mama. "That's even better; I can have a chat with my little sister-in-law. Bring it here and set it down."
The servant placed the food box on the stone table, and Long Xiao opened it himself. "These are all delicacies from Jiangnan; little sister-in-law should try some."
As he spoke, he picked up a piece of osmanthus cake and reached out toward Su Yuntang. "Here, try this."
Su Yuntang quickly took a step back. "Elder brother, I can serve myself."
"Oh come now, why be so polite among family?" Long Xiao insisted, stepping forward again.
Seeing the situation escalate, Liu Mama hurriedly stepped in front of Su Yuntang. "Eldest Young Master, there are distinctions between men and women; please be mindful."
Long Xiao shot Liu Mama a glance filled with displeasure. "This old woman has too many rules. Little sister-in-law, your maid is being overly strict."
Su Yuntang lowered her gaze. "Liu Mama is only looking out for your well-being. I appreciate your kindness, elder brother, but..."
"But what?" Long Xiao stepped closer again, nearly invading Su Yuntang's personal space. "Are you rejecting the treats I brought?"
At that moment, a clear voice rang out from outside the courtyard: "Second Young Mistress, Second Young Master is looking for you!"
Everyone turned around to see Li Fu hurriedly entering the room.
Upon seeing Long Xiao, he quickly bowed, "Eldest Young Master is here as well."
After greeting, Li Fu turned to Su Yuntang, "Second Young Mistress, the Second Young Master has something to discuss with you and is waiting for you in the study."
Su Yuntang felt relieved and quickly replied, "Since my husband is looking for me, I will take my leave now. Eldest Brother, please make yourself comfortable."
With that, she swiftly walked out of the courtyard, followed closely by Liu Mama and two maidservants.
Long Xiao watched their departing figures, a hint of gloom flashing in his eyes.
Su Yuntang followed Li Fu to the study, pushed open the door, and saw Long Xi sitting behind the desk reading.
Hearing the footsteps, he looked up, his expression unreadable.
"Husband," Su Yuntang bowed slightly.
Long Xi set down the book he was holding and scrutinized her, "Eldest Brother came to find you?"
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