Leaving Lian Shouxin, Wu Lang and others to talk with Wu Jiaxing in the front hall, Lady Zhang, Lian Manman and others led Lian Zhizhi to the back courtyard. The group of female relatives sat on the kang, and little maids brought out exquisite pastries, tea, and fruits.
Lady Zhang held Lian Zhizhi close, asking quietly about how she was doing at her in-laws' house and how Wu Jiaxing was treating her.
Lian Zhizhi didn't speak at first, but her face turned red. She had always been shy, and now, as a new bride returning home for the first time, she felt bashful even among her closest family. She responded positively to Lady Zhang's questions, saying her parents-in-law treated her well, her sister-in-law was kind to her, and Wu Jiaxing was beyond reproach.
