Marriage to the Royal Prince's Uncle

C94. As Long As I Can Make You Like Me.

Chapter 94

On the second day back in Beijing, Yunzhu planned to visit Sun Yurong after breakfast, honoring their longstanding plans.

Seeing her resolve, Cao Xun offered, "Allow me to escort you."

Yunzhu, aware of his busy schedule, gently declined. "There's no need. You attend to your commitments."

Cao Xun, his voice warm, insisted, "You and Sun Yurong are closer than sisters. On such a momentous occasion as the birth of her child, wouldn't my presence lend greater weight?"

Seeing the Duke's adamant insistence on accompanying her, Yunzhu gracefully yielded the point.

Early the next morning, carrying the carefully chosen full-moon gift, the couple embarked on their journey together. While Ah Jiu tended to the Duke's steed, Cao Xun, true to his nature, wouldn't be detained long within Xu Mansion's walls.

Meanwhile, at Xu Mansion, Sun Yurong and her husband Xu Guan eagerly awaited their distinguished guests, preparations complete.

Sun Yurong possessed a naturally generous figure, now accentuated by the gentle curves cultivated during her recent repose. Her face, full as the harvest moon, glowed with a healthy flush.

Stepping from the carriage, Yunzhu's refined presence was undeniable. In contrast, the well-dressed gentleman beside her, though handsome, exuded a more managerial air.

Sun Yurong's smile faltered briefly before she composed herself, joining in the greetings towards Yunzhu and Cao Xun. Their unexpected arrival, particularly Cao Xun's presence, had sparked a flicker of surprise in her eyes.

Cao Xun offered a warm smile, his voice carrying a hint of delight. "Yunzhu was overjoyed to hear the news of your new arrival. However, prior commitments prevent me from staying long, so I can only join you for a brief visit."

Xu Guan's response exuded genuine warmth. "Your presence graces this humble abode, Master Cao. Please, do not hesitate to enter."

With a touch of affection, Sun Yurong reached for Yunzhu's arm, guiding her discreetly behind as Xu Guan ushered Cao Xun in, striking a balance between courtesy and dignity.

Within the serene Nuan Pavilion, the wet nurse cradled the infant, her gentle touch a soothing lullaby.

The month-old child, a blank canvas yet, hinted at the Sun family lineage with his delightfully plump cheeks, arms, and legs.

Yunzhu, gathering the child in her embrace, playfully chided Sun Yurong, "My mother said you had a chubby cherub, but I didn't realize how literal she was!"

She recalled Liu Jing's daughter, three months old but nowhere near as generously endowed with the adorably plump physique of this little one.

Sun Yurong, a mischievous glint in her eye, turned to Cao Xun beside her. "Wouldn't you know it," she began with a smile, "he was quite chubby as a child. But imagine him at seven or eight, strong and nimble after the Duke's tutelage in martial arts. Such a contrast to my poor brother, wouldn't you agree?" Her gaze flitted to Yunzhu, silently inviting her opinion.

Yunzhu, intrigued, couldn't help but glance at Cao Xun, who merely chuckled and offered a readily given agreement.

Sun Yurong, despite knowing it was likely mere pleasantries, couldn't hide her satisfaction. As Cao Xun excused himself, Xu Guan headed for the study, leaving the two sisters alone in the Nuan Pavilion, their conversation continuing to flow like the gentle breeze.

Sun Yurong said, "Your husband's kindness surprised me, considering his esteemed position. Perhaps his demeanor differs in private settings. Your warm friendship with me has certainly swayed the Duke to offer his expertise in training my son. I am truly grateful."