Chapter 2220: They Are Acquaintances

Chapter 2220: They Are Acquaintances

Everyone was curious to see which young lady from the Qi family had come. However, when the carriage stopped, the curtains were drawn, revealing not a young lady but an elegant and dignified elderly lady.

The onlookers widened their eyes in surprise. "Is that... Madam Qi?"

Madam Qi had rarely left her home lately, except for royal banquets or invitations from close acquaintances. It was quite unexpected for her to be here.

Was she here to congratulate Princess Wen'an on her shop's opening? That seemed highly unlikely.

But it was indeed the case. Madam Qi was accompanied by another elderly lady. They walked hand in hand, and the maidservants behind them presented a well-prepared gift to Princess Lu.

Seeing the exquisite gift box, the crowd realized that this was no ordinary gift; it had been carefully prepared.

Shu Yu hadn't anticipated Madam Qi's visit. She hurriedly approached, offering her arm. "Madam Qi, why have you come?"

"I came because your shop is opening," Madam Qi replied. She was addressed as an elderly lady, but in reality, she was only in her fifties, similar in age to Shu Yu's grandmother.

While speaking, she walked inside, introducing the other elderly lady to Shu Yu. "This is my older sister, Madam Xi. I've told her about you before. Isn't she a good girl?"

Madam Xi smiled and replied, "You said she's a good girl, so she must be. I trust your judgment."

Madam Qi continued the introductions, saying, "And this is Madam Jiang, the wife of the Marquis of Jiang."

Shu Yu quickly paid her respects, saying, "Greetings, Madam Jiang."

Madam Jiang smiled and waved it off.

The young ladies who had been standing nearby took the opportunity to greet both elderly ladies as well.

Madam Qi nodded and asked, "Are all of you here to congratulate Shu Yu on her shop opening?"

The young ladies quickly affirmed, although they were even more amazed now. It seemed like Madam Qi was quite close to Princess Lu, almost like a younger relative.

No, she might be even closer than family.

After accepting the gifts, Shu Yu invited everyone inside. "There's quite a crowd outside. Let's continue our conversation in the backyard. By the way, Madam Yao and her group are already here, enjoying some tea."

Madam Qi smiled. "Oh, they're here early. Lead the way, Madam Xi. Let's go to the backyard."

They arrived in the backyard, where they saw the wife and daughter-in-law of the Ministry of Works Assistant Minister. The woman whom Shu Yu had addressed as "Madam Yao" was among them.

These young ladies were becoming increasingly impressed by how well-connected Princess Lu was. Even the heads of influential households came in person to congratulate her.

After they were seated, one young lady couldn't contain her curiosity and asked quietly, "Are Madam Qi and Princess Lu acquaintances?"

Madam Qi was approachable and answered with a smile, "Of course, we are acquainted. Several years ago, our family was able to return from the southwest thanks to her help. This young lady has done great kindness for our Qi family. What's most commendable is her character and capability. She has risen from an ordinary commoner to a village lord and now a county princess all through her own abilities. I particularly like her."