Inside the room, Yang Ruxin was getting dressed.
Since there was no need for extra layers, she selected a festive and beautiful dress. This dress was personally crafted by Dong Wenxiu, made from Smoke Cloud Silkâa fabric left behind by her late grandmother, Dong Xiangshi. Originally meant for her daughter, Dong Wenxiu had now used it to create an outfit for Yang Ruxin.
Smoke Cloud Silk, as its name implies, resembles smoke and glowing clouds. Not only is it soft and comfortable, but the color also shifts subtly with changes in light, making it incredibly luxurious.
"Truly stunning."
When Yang Ruxin changed into the pinkish-purple gown, even with a bare face, her entire aura transformed. She was radiant, so much so that everyone couldnât help but exclaim in admiration.
"So this is what they call a willow-like slender waist? Why is mine so thick?" Yu Qingge came forward, measuring Yang Ruxinâs waist.
"Shoo, shoo." Yang Ruxin swatted away her hands. "You couldâve had one too, but youâre always stuffing your mouth endlessly and sleeping after you eat. Itâs a miracle youâre not shaped like a barrelâitâs practically favoritism from heaven."
Yu Qingge sulked, puckering her lips. "Tomorrow, Iâll train martial arts with you."
"You should start with square dancing first." Yang Ruxin waved her hand dismissively.
"Fine, Iâll train. I actually know square dancing." Yu Qingge suddenly grinned mischievously and then dragged Sanni. "Come join me... You are my little, my little apple..."
"I know it too..." Sini dashed over excitedly. "How could I ever love you too much..."
Soon, Zhou Ying and the others joined in, hopping and bouncing along.
The room quickly turned lively, as if it were a bustling marketplace.
"Why did your eldest uncle come too?" Yang Ruxin, not bothering with those rowdy kids, pulled Wei Yao aside for a chat.
"Who knows what heâs thinking?" Wei Yao pouted, her expression tinged with embarrassment. "Xinxin, if Iâif someone were to imitate your familyâs dolls..."
Yang Ruxinâs brows arched slightly, and then she laughed. "Itâs perfectly normal. It was bound to happen eventually."
Wei Yao bit her lip.
"Is your eldest uncle planning to make his own?"
"Xinxin, youâve guessed it?" Wei Yaoâs eyes widened in surprise. "He had people dismantle several of them earlier, then gathered a group of embroidery artisans. I suspect... Iâm sorry."
"Silly girl." Yang Ruxin patted Wei Yaoâs shoulder. "Even if it werenât your eldest uncle, someone else wouldâve done it eventually. This is to be expected. Donât carry any burdens over it..." She had anticipated this outcome back when she started the doll business. She originally thought it would happen in two or three months, but the delay until now was already a blessing. For such a business, constant innovation is key. Others would always follow behind her, but her dolls had already garnered a good reputation. After all, the medicinal sachets and dried flowers incorporated into them couldnât easily be replicated by anyone.
"Regardless, I feel like I owe you a favor." Wei Yao sighed. "Xinxin, I know youâre capable, but my father said that if you ever need our help in the future, donât hesitate to ask. Both he and I will gladly assist without question."
Yang Ruxin chuckled and pinched her friendâs cheek. "Alright, Iâll remember that."
"Alright, everyone, thatâs enough fooling around." At that moment, Feng Family stepped into the room. "Xinxin, the auspicious hour has arrived. Itâs time to head out."
"Okay." Yang Ruxin nodded.
Yu Qingge quickly stopped dancing and followed by Yang Ruxinâs side as they headed out.