Long Xiao let out a soft hum and said, "Second Brother and Sister-in-law are so affectionate, truly enviable."
Lord Long, seated at the head of the table, lightly coughed upon hearing Long Xiao's words and smiled as he welcomed Long Xi and Su Yuntang, "Second Brother and Sister-in-law have arrived, please take your seats."
Lady Long sat on the other side of Lord Long. She merely cast a fleeting glance at them, her expression indifferent, not engaging in conversation.
Su Yuntang turned to Lu Ao, who approached with a zitan wood box in hand.
Su Yuntang took the box and turned to Long Jin, who was seated at the lower end of the table. "Third Brother, today is your birthday. Second Brother and Sister-in-law have prepared a small gift for you."
This was Su Yuntang's first time meeting Long Jin in person. The fifteen-year-old boy was handsome and refined, bearing a resemblance to Lord Long in his features.
Long Jin quickly stood up to bow. "Thank you, Second Brother and Sister-in-law."
He opened the gift box and his eyes immediately lit up with surprise. "Sister-in-law, this is..."
"This is a medicinal pillow I made myself, using high-quality cassia seeds, chrysanthemums, mint, and other herbs. It can calm the mind and improve vision while also clearing heat; it's beneficial for both the eyes and sleep," Su Yuntang explained gently. "I thought it would be useful for you since you study hard."
Long Jin examined the embroidery on the pillowcase closely; the stitches were fine and the colors elegant. "Sister-in-law's craftsmanship is truly impressive. This bamboo orchid embroidery is exquisite; it must have taken a lot of effort."
"I'm glad you like it," Su Yuntang replied with a soft smile.
Third Concubine Liu Shi rose from her seat. Petite and delicate, she wore an elegant light lotus-colored robe adorned with gold-threaded hairpins. "Qing Xi has put in great thought; Jin'er, hurry up and thank your Sister-in-law."
Third Concubine Liu Shi approached them. "Qing Xi has been very thoughtful; Jin'er, quickly thank your Sister-in-law."
"Thank you very much, Second Brother and Sister-in-law!" Long Jin bowed again.
Madam Tai took the medicinal pillow to examine it closely, nodding repeatedly. "This child truly puts in effort; her needlework is excellent."
Long Xi watched from the side, his eyes filled with approval. He knew that Su Yuntang's gift was heartfelt and indeed a fine choice.
At that moment, Lady Long suddenly spoke up, "Since everyone is here, let's begin the meal."
Once everyone was seated, Lord Long raised his glass. "Today is Jin'er's birthday; let us all celebrate joyfully."
After several rounds of drinks and dishes had been served, Madam Tai set down her chopsticks with a smile. "Jin'er has always been well-behaved since childhood and studies diligently. Now we have also welcomed a good daughter-in-law into our family. Qing Xi, you and Xi'er have been married for some time now; when can I hold my great-grandson?"
A blush crept onto Su Yuntang's face as she stammered, "Madam Tai, I..."
Long Xi quickly interjected, "Grandmother, we are still young; there’s no rush."
Lord Long laughed heartily, "Youth is indeed the best time! I see that you two are getting along so well; perhaps there will be good news soon."
Su Yuntang and Long Xi exchanged a glance, both understanding without words as they lowered their eyes.
Just as the atmosphere was warm and pleasant, hurried footsteps suddenly echoed from outside.
A young servant rushed in and whispered something in Lord Long's ear.
Lord Long's expression changed, and he set down his wine cup. "A guest has arrived; I need to check." With that, he stood up to leave.
Eldest Young Master Long Xiao also rose to his feet. "Father, do you need me to accompany you?"
"No need, hmm... just have the second one come with me," Lord Long waved his hand.
Long Xi immediately stood up and followed Lord Long out with quick strides.
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