Chapter 453 - Chapter 453: Chapter 460: Eyes Well Up with Tears (1/2)

Chapter 453: Chapter 460: Eyes Well Up with Tears

Mrs. Liu Huang had no reason to refuse when Shu Qin spoke like this; the guests indicating they would prepare their own dinner meant she didn’t have to worry about a shortage of food at home. Otherwise, her family would have had to tighten their belts and make do for a while. She was so pleased that she repeatedly agreed, “Yes, yes, no problem, this little matter is nothing to worry about!”

Upon hearing Shu Qin’s words, Old Man Liu wanted to say there was no need to be so distant and that it was fine to eat at his place. However, considering the situation at home, he ultimately kept his mouth shut and let his daughter-in-law decide.

Shu Qin could tell what was going on, but she also understood. In those days, food was precious, and there wasn’t even enough for the household. Old Man Liu and his family had already shown great enthusiasm under the circumstances. Madam had been considerate of the family’s difficulties, which was why she sent her out early; she was worried about putting the Liu family in an awkward position when they were already causing them trouble.

“Then, thank you, Sister-in-law. There’s no need for you to cook tonight; just eat with us,” Shu Qin continued. Though Su Wenyue had not specifically instructed this, as her servant girl, Shu Qin still possessed that basic courtesy.

“There’s no need, no need. You are guests, and if times weren’t so hard and we didn’t have so little food at home, we should be the ones entertaining you. We couldn’t possibly let you cook your own meals. I only hope you understand my difficulties and won’t take offense that we can’t accept your food!” Mrs. Liu Huang said, waving her hands. She was not one to take advantage of slight benefits.

Mrs. Liu Huang’s behavior only increased Shu Qin’s good impression: the Liu family was kind-hearted, welcoming, and not at all petty.

“Sister-in-law, don’t be polite. We have so many people, it’s just a matter of cooking for a few more. Besides, we’ve occupied the kitchen, leaving you nowhere to cook. Please, have dinner with us.”

“No, no, it’s fine. I can cook after you’ve finished. There’s no rush—I can eat later,” Mrs. Liu Huang insisted.

Shu Xiang, who had been silent until now, saw Mrs. Liu Huang’s reaction and chimed in supportively, “Sister-in-law, don’t be so formal with us. We, as guests, are not being distant with you. If you keep this up, we will feel embarrassed.”

At this, Mrs. Liu Huang was somewhat persuaded by Shu Xiang, yet she didn’t make her own decision but looked toward her father-in-law instead. With him present, it wasn’t her place as a daughter-in-law to make decisions, especially in front of guests. Mrs. Liu Huang was particularly cautious in this regard, perhaps due to years of experience as the daughter-in-law of the Village Chief.

Old Man Liu was very pleased with his daughter-in-law’s respect. Being a good-natured man himself, since Shu Qin and Shu Xiang had put it this way, he didn’t refuse further. “Alright, Huzi’s mother, since the two girls are so sincere, let’s just go along with their wishes. You just help them out later. Our rural kitchen isn’t so particular, and I’m afraid the girls might not be used to it.”

“Alright, I’ll follow father-in-law’s instructions,” Mrs. Liu Huang agreed upon hearing her father-in-law speak, and without any objection, she led Shu Qin and Shu Xiang to the kitchen, pitching in to help.

Just then, they heard a loud voice from outside, “Grandfather, Mother, I’m back!”