Chapter 280: Dinner Together
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Mr. Chen summoned his courage and addressed Su Bin directly, “I fear there may be an impending crisis in Young Master’s relationship with Miss Qin.” Su Bin was visibly perplexed and inquired, “Please elaborate.”
“If Miss Qin successfully alleviates the Empress Dowager’s headache, it will undoubtedly capture the Emperor’s attention. He will likely visit the Empress Dowager’s chambers to meet Miss Qin.”
“If, by any chance, the Jiang family had tampered with this situation beforehand, it could lead to significant complications.”
“Young Master and Miss Qin have not yet consummated their marriage. If the discovers this fact, she might decide to bring Miss Qin into the palace as a female official responsible for the Emperor’s imperial cuisine.” “This is particularly concerning given the Emperor’s recent health issues.” “This could potentially keep them confined within the palace.”
“Despite her title as a female official, in reality, she would become the
Emperor’s consort…”
Su Bin rubbed his temples, struggling to absorb the gravity of the situation. “Is this scenario possible?”
Did Mr. Chen imply that they should expedite the consummation of the marriage with Zhenzhen? But their relationship had not reached that level of intimacy.
What course of action should he take?
It appeared that he needed to arrange a meeting with the Old Marquis.
The atmosphere in the Empress Dowager’s chamber was so hushed that even the faintest whisper of a falling hair could be discerned. Everyone refrained from making any noise, for they dreaded the prospect of rousing the slumbering Empress Dowager.
Four hours passed before the Empress Dowager stirred and opened her eyes.
To her astonishment, her headache had disappeared. She couldn’t help but attribute it to Qin Zhenzhen’s skillful treatment. She recalled drifting off to sleep while Qin Zhenzhen was administering acupuncture—a testament to the girl’s exceptional talent.
Implying a significant improvement in her mood, the Empress Dowager addressed the attendant who approached, bowing respectfully, “What time is it? How long have I been asleep?”
The Empress Dowager found herself in unusually high spirits. Her relief from the headache and the invigorating sleep she had just enjoyed were clear indications of Qin Zhenzhen’s remarkable effectiveness.
With utmost respect, the attendant replied, “Your Majesty, it is now noon. You have slept for nearly four hours.”
The Empress Dowager’s improved disposition prompted her to announce, “I am quite hungry.”
The attendant intuitively grasped her meaning, and with a nod, two palace maids promptly attended to the Empress Dowager as she prepared to leave her bed.
Curious about Qin Zhenzhen’s whereabouts, the Empress Dowager inquired, “Where is Miss Qin presently?”
“Your Highness, I have already arranged for her and her entourage to rest in their quarters.”
Satisfied with this response, the Empress Dowager instructed, “Summon her to my presence.”
The housekeepers inquired cautiously, “Shall we begin preparing the food, or should we send for her?”
The Empress Dowager’s not known for her easygoing nature, responded, “Bring her here first.’
Her eagerness to meet Qin Zhenzhen was palpable, as she had numerous questions for her.
Perhaps it was due to her newfound relief from the headache, but the Empress Dowager’s animosity towards Grandma Qin had somewhat subsided.
The housekeeper personally went to extend the invitation to Qin Zhenzhen.
Approaching Qin Zhenzhen, she whispered, “The Empress Dowager seems to be in a good mood.”
Qin Zhenzhen nodded appreciatively. “Thank you, nanny.”
She then turned to reassure her grandmother, saying, “Grandma, please don’t worry. Everything will be fine.”
“Indeed, I understand.”
Grandma Qin was aware that the overseeing nanny was under Su Bin’s jurisdiction. While she remained unaware of Su Bin’s reasons for her resentment, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief.
After a brief wait, the Empress Dowager caught sight of the composed Qin Zhenzhen.
Internally, Qin Zhenzhen questioned the ancient custom of kneeling when she knelt down to offer her obeisance. In the modern era, only the deceased knelt!
Why did people in ancient times insist on this tradition? The Empress Dowager intervened, stating, “Rise. Join me at the table.” Promptly, a palace maid brought a stool for Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen respectfully acknowledged the gesture, bowing once more.
“Thank you, Empress Dowager..”