Chapter 1288: Back to the Capital

Editor: Henyee Translations

They systematically organized and stowed away all the belongings, a task that proved to be remarkably convenient.

Shao Yunduan refrained from inquiring about these affairs. His only concern was that she had safely stored them for easy retrieval when necessary.

A full day was dedicated to the meticulous organization of Shao Yunduan’s possessions into sturdy boxes, with Qiao Xuan, Lixia, and Liqiu overseeing the task.

Shao Liulang understood the need for respect in this matter. Shao Yunduan’s reputation had to be upheld.

Qiao Xuan selected a few pieces, no more than three or four, for transcription. Taotao, Shao Junyan, Sun Qian, and Sun Baiqi ventured into the field to reproduce them. Qiao Xuan had no intention of providing Shao Liulang with Shao Yunduan’s original work. This was all part of being well-prepared.

Regarding the quality of the transcriptions, Qiao Xuan’s primary concern was legibility; aesthetics and neatness took a backseat.

Shao Liulang’s countenance darkened upon receiving his portion.

Qiao Xuan maintained a gentle smile. “Many of my husband’s belongings have been transported to the capital. I’ve conducted a thorough search, and this is all I could find. Should you require anything else, please, cousin, feel free to convey your needs to him directly when he returns.”

Internally, Shao Liulang sneered. He had plans to sit for the autumn examination next July and, if successful as a recommended candidate, the spring examination the following year. Shao Yunduan wouldn’t be returning to the capital during these two years. Qiao Xuan was merely preserving appearances.

However, he couldn’t fault Qiao Xuan for her actions. After all, she hailed from a Daoist family and couldn’t possibly be knowledgeable about her husband’s scholarly pursuits. It was ignorance on her part.

Taking the items, Shao Liulang put on a false smile. “I’m deeply grateful, cousin and sister-in-law. I’ll certainly remember your kindness.”

Qiao Xuan felt a tinge of irritation. She wondered if he held some resentment towards her. Nonetheless, she smiled, trying to maintain harmony. “You’re too kind, cousin!”

A sinister smile crept across Shao Liulang’s face.

Qiao Xuan paid no heed to it. Neither she nor Shao Yunduan feared the Tian Family, the Fourth Prince, or Shao Liulang.

Qiao Xuan lingered until the Dragon Boat Festival had come and gone. She completed all her tasks, leaving her with a sense of assurance.

She didn’t plan to return for the latter part of the year. Instead, she intended to revisit Jiangnan and return home next year.

After departing from home, they spent an additional three days at the Yuezheng Family in the province before making their way to the capital.

By the time they arrived back in the capital, it was already late May.

What Qiao Xuan hadn’t anticipated was Shao Yunduan receiving news of their return and taking a day off to meet her at a teahouse pavilion over 500 meters away from town.

Qiao Xuan felt both surprised and delighted. In the wagon, the two of them couldn’t resist hugging and kissing each other. Their time apart had made their reunion feel incredibly sweet, and they couldn’t get enough of each other’s affection.

As the kiss ended, Qiao Xuan turned soft, her breath quickening in Shao Yunduan’s arms. Her red, swollen lips, glistening eyes, and rosy cheeks made her appear irresistibly charming. Her languid, captivating demeanor prompted Shao Yunduan to kiss her once more.

The wagon continued its steady journey along the broad, flat road. Nestled in Shao Yunduan’s embrace, Qiao Xuan beamed. “Darling, what brings you here to meet me?”

Shao Yunduan’s long fingers caressed her hair, and he chuckled. “I missed seeing you the last time you were here, so I took this opportunity to make amends.”

“But most importantly, I missed you!”