The next morning, after several busy days, Prince Duan finally had time to dine with his daughter. A crowd of maids and old women filled half the room.
Prince Duan glanced around. Apart from Nanny Yun, Fu Dong, and Xue Liu standing behind Nian Ru, whom he recognized, the others were all brought in by Housekeeper He more recently.
In all fairness, given Nian Ru's status, it wouldn't be fitting if she didn't have a dozen or so maids and old women around her. It was his oversight for not thinking about this matter earlier. Those who were temporarily recruited by Housekeeper He and placed around Nian Ru only in recent days, however, left him somewhat uneasy.
"Nian Ru, the cook in your courtyard is quite good," Prince Duan said after tasting a small soup dumpling, which was beautifully juicy and perfectly warm, prompting him to unwittingly praise the flavor.
