As they spoke, the manservant who had just gone inside to deliver the message emerged. Seeing his young master inviting guests into the estate, he swallowed the words he was about to say, turned around, and went back to report.
Ordinarily, strict rules of propriety would forbid such an encounter between the sexes, but Little Xin'er was merely a child—what rules could possibly apply? Ouyang Mingtai led Little Xin'er into the estate. One could never imagine the grandeur of the Ouyang Estate without stepping inside. The buildings and pavilions were nestled among lush trees and vibrant flowers, reminding Little Xin'er of the fields and manors back home.
Two carriages had already awaited them, and as soon as Little Xin'er and Peilan stepped down, they were greeted by the sight of a grand hall. The structure was elegantly restrained, free of any ostentation. Before the entrance, two maidservants stood flanking a woman dressed in a plain white gown. Seeing them arrive, she stepped forward and asked, "Mingtai, it is so hot today; are you feeling quite well?"
Chapter 202