Rebirth of a Farming Wife

“Madam, Master has asked for you, saying that we have some important guests and wishes for you to join in hosting them.”

“He’s asking me to join in hosting the guests? Who has come?” Su Wenyue asked, somewhat surprised. This was the first time Han Yu had formally invited her to help greet guests. It seemed that the visitors were not only of unusual status but also likely had a good relationship with Han Yu; otherwise, he wouldn’t have asked her to join in.

“The servant girls do not recognize him; we’ve never seen him before—it’s a young man dressed like a scholar, quite handsome, and he seems quite familiar with our Master.”

It was just as she had guessed. Su Wenyue instructed the Kitchen to prepare a few good dishes, changed her clothes, but her hair was still a bit damp. It wouldn’t be proper to meet guests with her hair loose and slightly wet, so she decided to put it up. After all, it was almost dry.

“Sister-in-law, I have taken the liberty of visiting today, and I hope you won’t find me bothersome,” the gracious Young Master greeted her with a bow and a smile as soon as she walked in, and she recognized him immediately. Wasn’t this Deng Tong, whom she had dined with in the County Town with Han Yu? The Young Master of the Deng Family—a notable family in Xinye—had struck up an acquaintance with then-farmer Han Yu, leaving a deep impression on her that she had not forgotten even to this day.

“So it’s Young Master Deng; no wonder Husband called me over, knowing it’s an esteemed guest.”

“You’re too courteous, Madam. I’ve heard about the Mansion’s exceptional craftsmanship in the kitchen, which is why I specifically asked Brother Han to bring me over today. Sister-in-law, you must instruct the Kitchen to prepare a few good dishes for me,” Deng Tong said, jokingly and without restraint.

“It’s a rare visit from Young Master Deng, so naturally, we have to host you well. I’ve already ordered the Kitchen to get ready. I’ll go down myself and cook a few dishes. Even the wine served at home is homemade and tastes quite good. Young Master Deng, please drink a few more glasses to make the trip worthwhile,” Su Wenyue said with a smile.

Han Yu brought Deng Tong home because he saw him as someone worthy of friendship, with considerable righteousness. He had been a great help to him this time. But seeing his wife and Deng Tong chatting and laughing so amicably, he knew they both did it for his sake, yet he still felt somewhat displeased. He wanted to keep his beautiful wife hidden away, allowing no one to see her, especially when he noticed Su Wenyue’s hair still damp, which made him frown even more.

“Why are you washing your hair so often in this cold weather without having someone dry it for you? What if you catch a cold and get a headache again? Your health has always been delicate, and you’re still not taking good care of it,” Han Yu scolded her in front of Deng Tong, insisting that Su Wenyue go back to her room to dry her hair properly.

Su Wenyue hadn’t expected Han Yu to speak like that in front of others, which embarrassed her slightly. However, Han Yu had always been concerned about her health, especially after the birth, and had become more overprotective, tending to make a fuss over small matters.

“Tsk tsk, Brother Han and Sister-in-law have such a good relationship; it makes me quite envious,” Deng Tong truly felt that way, coming from a big family himself. He was deeply touched by this scene; his own parents always kept their distance, even their words of concern were merely formalities, never sharing such heartwarming moments.

Su Wenyue returned to her room to continue drying her hair as Han Yu insisted. Then she went to the Kitchen, claiming she would cook herself, although in actuality, she didn’t really do the cooking but rather directed the Cooks according to her methods.

Knowing that Young Masters like Deng Tong, who often ate meat and fish, wouldn’t be impressed by hastily prepared lavish dishes which could lack the right preparation time, Su Wenyue did not prepare those. Instead, she took out some prepared salted eggs and pickles and arranged for a few more vegetables to be prepared. She also served vegetables and fruits grown from foreign seeds, thus setting out a spread of homely yet uncommon dishes. Many were dishes she had created by merging ones from her previous life with those she has recently developed in this life.

With Su Wenyue absent, Han Yu and Deng Tong began discussing Court affairs. Although Deng Tong was still studying and not yet holding an official position, with his background, certain matters were inevitable. As the Eldest son, he had gradually begun taking over the Deng Family affairs. His ability to assist Han Yu this time was due to his networking, playing a pivotal role in securing the credit for suppressing the bandits, although other factors were also involved.

“The situation is not only complicated in Chang’an City but also here in Yiyang Prefecture. The Imperial Court seems on the verge of chaos, with everyone scrambling to secure power and benefits. You should be very cautious when you go to the prefecture; don’t do too much at first. First, get a clear picture of the internal situation. I have a friend in the General Battalion who is quite righteous. I will contact him for you, and you can ask him for help with anything when you get there,” Han Yu said.

Deng Tong had chosen to befriend Han Yu because he recognized Han Yu’s talent and good character, and indeed, in such a short time, Han Yu had moved up from a Seventh Rank Deputy Lieutenant. Thanks to his role in the bandit suppression, not only was it likely he would be transferred to the Prefecture General Camp, but a promotion was also assured, significant enough for at least one or two ranks.

“Many thanks to Brother Deng for your guidance. I, Han Yu, will never forget the help you’ve given. In the future, should you ever need my assistance, do not hesitate to ask.”

Deng Tong waved his hand, saying, “It’s a minor matter; no need for Brother Han to dwell on it. Everyone needs help sometimes. Friends should help each other out. I won’t be shy to ask for your help when I need it.”

“The meal is ready, would Master and Young Master Deng like to have a meal now?” Since Han Yu hadn’t called for any Servants, and unaware whether Han Yu and Deng Tong were discussing confidential matters, Su Wenyue did not send in the Servants but personally went to invite them. Sure enough, she overheard Han Yu and Deng Tong discussing things and was surprised to learn that Han Yu might be promoted and moving to the provincial capital. A glint of joy flashed across her face, but she knew to keep her composure and did not ask questions at that moment.

As a martial artist, Han Yu had exceptional hearing, and the approach of someone to the door made him tense. Seeing that it was Su Wenyue who came in, his expression softened, and at her inquiry, he nodded his head.

“Then let’s start the meal. Brother Deng, after you!”

Deng Tong was someone who loved to eat, and his request to dine at the Han Family was not made casually. As soon as he entered, he focused his attention on the table spread with various dishes.