A few days later, the Zhao family next door started to set up the wedding canopy.
Many people from the neighborhood went over to help. Mrs. Chen, who loved lively events, couldn't go to the Zhao family as she was a widow, so she sat at the doorway doing needlework, chatting with the passersby.
By the end of the morning, she had gathered how much betrothal money the Zhao family gave, how much dowry Gu Mei prepared, and even what dishes would be served at the Zhao family's banquet the next day.
During lunch, Mrs. Chen couldn't resist sharing the gossip she heard.
"The Zhao family gave six taels and six coins in silver as betrothal money, saying it's good luck."
"As for the bride's side—" she glanced at Yun Jiao, "I heard that the bottom-drawer money is twenty taels, plus around ten taels of silver as dowry."
"It's said that the dowry includes a silk comforter."
Yun Jiao listened without speaking.
Gu Chuan looked up at Mrs. Chen, also without speaking.
