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The next morning, Tao'er got up very early.

I didn't sleep well last night, and I even dreamed about that devilish Xiao Yi.

I might as well get up earlier.

Qingge got up with her.

She walked to the carport, opened the car door, and glanced inside.

The place was very clean, and they had even burned some calming mugwort incense beforehand, which was specially made by Tao'er herself.

"Girl, what are you doing?"

Is it because they're worried that the bicycle shed wasn't cleaned properly and that they might neglect Mr. Chen?

Don't worry, knowing you're going to pick up Old Xu and the others today, I cleaned the carriage yesterday.

Qingge said with a smile.

"That's not enough. Madam Xu has been bedridden for a long time and cannot sit or move around for long periods of time."

We need to put a soft bed inside, but luckily the carport is big enough.

Then try to find some thick bedding to sleep on.

Tao'er thought for a while and then said.

"Okay, I'll go get the things and get things arranged right away."

Qingge quickly ran back into the house.

Fifteen minutes later, she laid a thick, soft mat on the cart floor, a layer of fine cotton quilt, pressed it with her hand, and felt it wasn't soft enough, so she brought over a new cotton quilt and placed it on top.

Tao'er watched her busy work from the side and nodded in satisfaction.

"Young lady, do you think this method will work?"

"Yes, Qingge, you did a great job."

It's almost dawn, let's go!

"Alright, girl, wait here. I'll go to the stable and get the mules, then we can set off."

Tao'er nodded. "Okay, go ahead! Remember to feed the mule some hay, don't let it work on an empty stomach!"

I'll also keep some pastries and tea in the car so they can eat or drink whenever they're hungry or thirsty along the way.

"Don't worry, girl, I remember!"

The mule won't go hungry.

As Qingge spoke, she went to the backyard to fetch the mule.

Tao'er went inside to fetch a box of pastries and a pot of tea.

In the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the mules were harnessed, and they set off.

As we left the village, the mist gradually dissipated, revealing lush green fields where dewdrops on the wheat seedlings glistened in the rising sunlight.

Tao'er was both looking forward to picking them up as soon as possible and worried about whether the Xu couple would be able to get used to living in the countryside.

Qingge flicked the whip lightly, and the mule trotted along, its wheels creaking on the dirt road.

A gentle breeze caressed her face, and Tao'er felt no sleepiness at all, as it had all been blown away by the morning wind.

I have to say the air was really fresh; although it was a little chilly, it was very comfortable.

When they arrived at the Xu family's courtyard in the county town, Old Master Xu was already waiting at the door with Old Madam Xu by his side.

The old lady's complexion was still sallow, but she seemed more energetic than a few days ago. When she saw Tao'er arrive, she managed a smile.

Tao'er jumped out of the carriage and quickly tidied up the cushions. Then, together with Qingge, they carefully helped the old lady into the carriage.

The old lady lay on the thick, soft mattress, let out a soft "hmm," and touched the layers of cotton padding underneath. She didn't say anything, but her gaze towards Tao'er softened with warmth.

Old Xu then bent down and went into the carport as well.

Qingge was about to sit in the front and drive the carriage when Tao'er stopped her. "Qingge, you go into the carriage shed and take good care of Old Madam Xu. I'll drive!"

Qingge hesitated for a moment, but knowing the girl's temperament, she still followed her instructions and went into the bicycle shed.

They walked very slowly, and whenever there was a small pothole or bump, Tao'er would tighten the reins in advance to go around it or slowly slide over it.

Old Xu saw this, stroked his gray beard, and nodded to himself.

This young woman looks quite young, but she handles things with such care and efficiency that even he, an old man who has been in the court for decades, couldn't find fault with her.

He glanced at the various arrangements in the car and felt a warmth in his heart. This girl was thoughtful, and he imagined that her younger siblings were no less so.

As the mule cart turned into the entrance of Xinghua Village, the sun had already climbed above the willow trees in the east.

Several early-rising women in the village peeked out and greeted Tao'er with smiles.

His eyes were full of curiosity as he looked her over, wondering if this little girl had gone into the city again.

When they saw an old man with a white beard come down from the bicycle shed, they became even more curious.

Someone asked directly, "Peach Girl, who is this old gentleman?"

Tao'er readily replied, "It was Mr. Xu, the tutor I hired for my younger brother."

"This is the first time I've ever seen someone specifically hire someone from their family to teach."

"That girl, Tao, is really promising!"

"The Da Niu family is incredibly lucky to have such a daughter!"

"Wow, their ancestors must have been incredibly lucky! Their son is sensible and capable, and their daughter is just as good as their son!"

Tao'er didn't care what the villagers were saying, as long as they didn't curse at her.

Then Tao'er and Qingge helped Old Madam Chen out of the carriage.

Liu Daniu and his wife were already waiting at the door.

My two older brothers aren't here; they probably went into the mountains.

Old Xu was very approachable and introduced himself to Liu Daniu and his wife in a very casual manner.

After chatting for a few minutes, Zhang Su'e personally led the couple to their residence.

However, they left quickly, telling them to get some rest.

Tao'er said to Old Master Xu, "Old Master Xu, you and your wife should rest first. I'll bring my younger brother and sister over to see you later."

Qingge will be waiting outside; if Old Xu needs anything, just call out.

"good!"

Xu Heng nodded.

After finishing her sentence, Tao'er left first.

We need to let them get used to it first.

Old Xu helped the old lady into the house, and after looking around, he had another thought.

The mattress and other bedding on the kang (heated brick bed) were all brand new. A small bunch of wildflowers, yellow and purple, sat on the windowsill. Although they were common wildflowers, they added a touch of life to the room.

Old Xu turned back to look at Tao'er's departing figure and said, "This girl is very thoughtful."

"Madam, you must be tired from the journey!"

I'll help you to bed.

Madam Chen, née Liu, nodded. "Alright!"

The old lady lay down on the bed and felt surprisingly comfortable, letting out a long sigh of relief.

"Madam, you won't blame me for bringing you here, will you?"

Xu Heng asked gently.

"Old Xu, we've been husband and wife for decades, when have I ever complained about you?"

I think this place is pretty good.

This little girl's family is all very harmonious and peaceful.

Moreover, ever since I drank that girl's magic water, I feel much more comfortable.

I've been sleeping soundly these past few days.

"If Madam is happy, then I will teach her younger brother here while you continue your treatment."

You don't have to stay in bed all the time like before; you can go out into the yard to get some fresh air and cool off!

It would be nice if I could keep you company and talk to you under the jujube tree.

This house is very large, no less so than the mansions of the wealthy families in the county town.

Xu Heng was very satisfied with this place.

I originally thought it was just a mud house for farmers, but it turned out to be a large courtyard house made of blue bricks.

"Old Xu, you have to teach her younger siblings well. This girl not only treated my illness for free, but also arranged for us to stay in such a nice place."

I genuinely like that little girl; I always felt a strong connection with her.

As Liu spoke, she began to feel sleepy.

Xu Heng quickly replied, "Don't worry, Madam, I know what to do."

You must be tired, go to sleep first!

I woke up too early this morning.

Liu nodded, closed her eyes, and soon fell asleep.