On the actual day of the Qi familyâs invitation, Cheng Su got up early from bed, washed, and dressed quickly, then started helping around the house to avoid her mother-in-law indirectly complaining about her laziness.
After breakfast, people began to arrive to help. The banquet was held at noon, so there was a lot of work to be done.
Uncle Zhu, who was in charge of cooking, had already arrived. After receiving a cigarette from Father Qi, he put on an apron and swiftly began washing, cutting, chopping, and frying, busying himself with the preparations.
Early in the morning, the entire Qi family was bustling with people coming and going, making it lively, busy, and noisy.
Today, Mother Qi was dressed in a festive red outfit and went early to offer her respects to the deities. As the eldest daughter-in-law, Cheng Su was also brought along by her side to learn how to offer her respects, albeit unwillingly, but being the eldest daughter-in-law, she had to do it!
Cheng Su listened as Mother Qi offered words of respect to the ancestors and deities, murmuring phrases of thanks for the ancestorsâ and Bodhisattvaâs blessings, celebrating Jianguoâs admission to university and such.
After finishing up with Qi Jianguoâs affairs, she moved on to the elder sonâs, praying for the ancestorsâ and Bodhisattvaâs blessings. Concerned that it involved her husband, Cheng Su dared not be disrespectful and worshipped reverently.
"Offer incense to the ancestors for their blessing so that you can soon have a chubby little boy!" Mother Qi handed Cheng Su a stick of incense.
Cheng Suâs mind buzzed; this was the topic she dreaded most when brought up by her mother-in-law.
However, she and Qi Taiguo had been trying for months with no sign of success. Perhaps it was time to pray, so she obediently took the incense, mimicking Mother Qiâs worship manner, and uttered her heartfelt wishes.
Mother Qi watched from the side, very satisfied.
She was pleased with Cheng Suâs sincerity toward the ancestors, believing it could lead to good fortune in the future. Her compliance and obedience were pleasing to the eyes.
"Alright, go and help outside." After Cheng Su offered the incense, Mother Qi released her.
Cheng Su felt as if she had been pardoned and walked out.
The chimney in the kitchen began to emit smoke, and faint aromas wafted through the air; cooking had commenced.
Cheng Su didnât enter the kitchen but instead helped arrange tables and set up dishes and utensils in the courtyard and main room, preparing to host guests attending the banquet.
Father Qi was in high spirits today, smiling to everyone he met. If it was a male guest, he offered cigarettes; if a female guest smoked, he would hand out two as well, hoping to spread festive cheer.
Qi Jianguo, the main character of the event, wore a new outfitâjeans and a white shirtâand looked very spirited. Wearing glasses, he appeared particularly genteel, occasionally smiling at guests with an air of confidence.
"Congratulations, relatives."
Cheng Su heard the voice, turned around, and saw her own parents carrying cigarettes, alcohol, and a bag of fruits. She quickly went to welcome them.
"Dad, Mom, youâre here too." Cheng Su took the gifts and said with a smile.
"Hey, youâve come back. Your younger brother-in-law is celebrating a big achievement today; of course, we had to come to congratulate!" Father Cheng said smilingly.
"Please come in, relatives." Father Qi was equally delighted to see Father Cheng and his family. Together with his son, he went to welcome them.
Qi Jianguo greeted them.
After placing the gifts down, Cheng Su busied herself serving tea and water. Mother Cheng said, "Weâre all family, no need for formalities. You go outside and help; Iâll join in a bit."
Cheng Su exchanged a few more words before heading outside to organize; there were many guests, she couldnât slack off just because her parents were here.
Firecrackers sounded at the door, indicating more guests had arrived. Cheng Su hurried to greet them, pausing in surprise, but soon smiled: "Auntie, youâve come too, please come inside!"
The visitor, supported by a girl, leaning on a walking stickâit was none other than Auntie and her daughter Weiqiu.