Blossom In Adversity - Vol. 2

C383. You Can't Settle for Less.

Chapter 383: You Can't Settle for Less

After a leisurely breakfast, Hua Zhi made the rounds, checking in with everyone in each room before heading to the kitchen, with Hua Ling trailing quietly behind her.

"The scholar's injury isn't too bad," Hua Zhi began, as if anticipating the question. "It's nothing serious, and Physician Chu is looking after him. I also made sure he got a box of Shao Yao’s pain relief medicine, so it won’t affect his performance in the autumn exams."

She continued, explaining in more detail for Hua Ling's sake, "I’ve seen the scholar’s character. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, and his heart’s in the right place. I wouldn’t be surprised if he passes the exam. If you’d like to thank him personally, I can arrange it after the exams."

Hua Ling simply shook her head. "No, this is enough," she replied.

She didn’t need to make a big deal out of it. The gesture spoke for itself. Her gratitude was something she’d keep in her heart. After all, yesterday had already stirred up quite a scene, and if anyone saw her in public with another man, it wouldn’t just be embarrassing for her—it would drag her eldest sister and the entire Hua family into the mess too.

Hua Ling might not have the same diplomatic finesse as her eldest sister, but she was determined not to let her own actions cause unnecessary trouble for the family.

Hua Zhi gave her a quick glance, not pressing the issue further. At the end of the day, a person’s choices and actions are theirs to make. Sure, others can offer guidance and advice, but they can’t step in and take the reins for them. Hua Ling seemed to be catching on, and Hua Zhi decided she’d keep an eye on her for now.

The kitchen was bustling with activity, servants moving around in a well-organized frenzy. Hua Zhi liked the vibrant energy; it meant everything was running smoothly at home, which was always a good sign.

As she walked in, everyone greeted her.

Chen Mama, who had been managing things in the absence of the Fourth Madam, approached with a smile. “Eldest Miss.”

“Mama, you’ve been working hard. How’s everything today?”

“All is well,” replied Chen Mama, smiling warmly, “You look like you’ve got plenty of energy today.”

“A good night’s sleep is all it takes to reset everything,” Hua Zhi said casually. Then, her brows furrowed. “Has the basket not arrived yet?”

“It hasn’t, but it’s scheduled to come this afternoon.”

Hua Zhi nodded, snatched a piece of fried dough from the counter, chewed on it for a second, then spat out the crumbs. After grabbing some jerky, she did the same again. Finally, looking satisfied, she said, “Keep it up. We’ve got two more days, so try to make a little extra.”

“Understood, Eldest Miss.”

Without lingering any longer, Hua Zhi made her way to the front yard with Hua Ling trailing behind her. Hua Ling didn’t say anything to stop her, quietly following as Hua Zhi led her to thank Wang Rong in person before they both hopped into the carriage.

“Sister, where are we heading?” Hua Ling asked, curiosity in her tone.

“The new shop in Liyun Lane is opening today. I’m going to check it out.”

Hua Ling knew Liyun Lane by name. Even though her sister rarely brought up business matters with them, there were a few things she had picked up. Like Green Moss Alley, Liyun Lane was known for its food trade.

Biting her lip, Hua Ling mustered up the courage to ask, "Sister, can I learn about business from you?"

Hua Zhi, lounging against a cushion, raised an eyebrow and gave her a sharp, appraising look. "Why do you want to learn?"