Everything seemed the same as any other day, yet the atmosphere had shifted. In an instant, the house buzzed with activity. Chang Meihua was just as busy, coordinating errands, managing logistics, and handling affairs related to friends, family, and work. She even brought Fu Yurou along to oversee various tasks, effectively passing on her experience.
"Although we aren't planning a grand celebration," Chang Meihua said, "many people will still show up. There are some gifts from close acquaintances that we cannot refuse, but you must inspect them carefully when you receive them. Some are acceptable, others are not."
"Your Eldest Aunt and Second Aunt will be arriving in a few days," she continued. "The weather is freezing, and trains are prone to delays. We must be prepared; both vehicles and restaurant arrangements need to be secured. We can't host everyone at the Military Family Quarters on your father's birthday—too many people in one place invites disaster; it's better to be safe than sorry. We should go to a state-run restaurant, but it shouldn't be too conspicuous. I’ve chosen a spot tucked away in one of the alleys."
Chapter 657