The Wealthy Eldest Sister Rules Supreme

If possible, she really wanted to invite Mr. Fan to occasionally teach Zhuang Qingsui and Zhuang Mingli.

However, judging by Fan Wenxuan’s imposing appearance, and the rather spacious carriage she saw earlier, it was likely that Mr. Fan’s compensation for tutoring would not be low.

While Zhuang Qingning’s shops were doing well, and her workshops were thriving, she had some money at hand. But considering Mr. Fan was teaching at Qingzhuyuan, the main house may not easily let him out often.

What’s more, this place is not an official school. She wasn’t sure whether Fan Wenxuan would agree.

While Zhuang Qingning was undecided, unsure whether to tell Fan Wenxuan about it or not, Fan Wenxuan took the initiative to say, “If Miss Zhuang doesn’t mind, I could spare some time and teach your sister, give a few lectures.” Was this a case of wishes coming true?

Zhuang Qingning was overjoyed, “Really? But wouldn’t it be inconvenient for Mr. Fan? I remember you said you have a student…”

Could he genuinely teach his student if he wasn’t giving his all?

“It’s not a problem. While a tutor should teach, the student also needs time for self-study. Like feeding a thin person to make them gain weight, constantly stuffing food into their mouth without giving them time to digest, not only will it not nourish the body, but it could also trigger new disorders.”

Fan Wenxuan said, “I only have one student anyway, and I reckon that studying in the yard all day is rather dull and devoid of vibrancy. It’s not good. I’ve been wanting to take him out for relaxing walks occasionally, to change his mood and observe the local customs.”

“Moreover, in teaching, one can also learn. I want to let my student play the teacher’s role, to see how he has learned and how he teaches others.”

“If that’s the case, thank you, Mr. Fan.”

Zhuang Qingning thanked him, but was very nervous. She cautiously asked, “May I ask Mr. Fan, how old is your student?”

If her husband turned out to be the student of Fan Wenxuan, as someone rumored, she wasn’t ready to meet him…

The road to wealth and prosperity is long, and she had no time for romance.

“He just turned nine years old,” Fan Wenxuan answered truthfully, raising an eyebrow slightly, “He’s still young, don’t worry, Miss Zhuang.”

“Yes.”

Zhuang Qingning breathed a sigh of relief.

She indeed felt relieved. If he’s this young, he probably isn’t the one.

Zhuang Qingning resumed her cheerful demeanor, and started a casual conversation with Fan Wenxuan.

Meanwhile, Fan Wenxuan took note of Zhuang Qingning’s subtle changes in expression which made him reflect.

She was dressed in fine clothes today, rode in the best carriage in the yard, and showed hope when she heard he had a student. Ordinary people might be expectant, curious about his student—how old he was, how handsome, and whether a wondrous bond could bloom, making her a phoenix flying high on a branch.

On the contrary, Zhuang Qingning did ask about the student’s age, but showed neither regret nor disappointment when she learnt that he was a nine-year-old boy; instead, she seemed very pleased.

What did that indicate?

It indicated that Zhuang Qingning was not a woman driven by vanity. Although she was in business, she aimed for prosperity through hard work. It was a highly commendable trait.

Fan Wenxuan made another note in his little book.

Fan Wenxuan stayed here until nearly noon. Zhuang Qingning was about to prepare lunch to entertain him.

“Miss Zhuang is a wonderful cook, but I need to hurry back. I have been away for a long time now, and my student must be missing me.” Even though Fan Wenxuan really liked Zhuang Qingning’s cooking, he had to refuse as he intended to have lunch with Chu Jinzhou.

Seeing that Fan Wenxuan spoke like that, Zhuang Qingning didn’t try to keep him, but saw him to the door.

After sending Fan Wenxuan away, Zhuang Qingning started to prepare lunch.

White rice, braised pork, and refreshing kimchi—Zhuang Qingsui relished the meal with gusto.

Meanwhile, Fan Wenxuan was enjoying a sumptuous lunch with Chu Jinzhou at Qingzhuyuan. Although he seemed a bit preoccupied, the sporadic smiles appearing on his face clearly indicated that he was not troubled; rather, he was in a good mood.

Chu Jinzhou being simple-minded, didn’t think too much. Seeing Fan Wenxuan’s smiling face, he felt very happy.

On the other hand, Ning Feng, who was serving at the side, couldn’t help but look over and over again, even wanting to inquire.

Something that could make Fan Wenxuan happy…

Might not necessarily be a good thing!

“By the way, did the eldest young master mention when he will be back?”

Before Ning Feng could ask, Fan Wenxuan inquired.

“No, the eldest young master only mentioned in his letter that he is busy with official duties recently and may not be able to visit Third Young Master for a while,” Ning Feng answered truthfully, his brows furrowing deeply.

Was Fan Wenxuan asking this to see if he would get caught by Chu Jinnian for mischief?

Ning Feng’s heart hung in the balance again.

“It’s going to be a while…” Fan Wenxuan appeared quite disheartened.

Huh?

Ning Feng rubbed his eyes and looked again. It seemed like Fan Wenxuan was really not very happy, so he was not seeing things.

But, something felt off.

Fan Wenxuan dreaded Chu Jinnian’s nagging teachings. Usually, when he heard that Chu Jinnian would not return for a while, he would be overjoyed. However, this time, he seemed ready to let out a long sigh.

“Mr. Fan, is there an urgent matter that requires the eldest young master?” Unable to help himself, Ning Feng asked.

“If you ask if it’s urgent, it’s not really. But if you ask if it’s not urgent, it is actually a rather important matter…”

Fan Wenxuan stroked his beard, “How about this. When you write to the elder young master again, add a line, saying that if he has the time, he should come back at the earliest opportunity.”

Disappointed because Chu Jinnian might not be back soon and yet urging him to return early?

This was a bit illogical.

Ning Feng was surprised, but recalling the previous discussion about political matters between Fan Wenxuan and Chu Jinnian, he was instantly alerted, “Yes, sir. I understand. I will arrange it.”

“Hmm.” Fan Wenxuan nodded slightly, and continued having lunch with Chu Jinzhou.

“Sir, has my elder brother run into trouble?” Chu Jinzhou was worried. He put the chopsticks down.

“Sort of, but if you and I work together, we can help your elder brother through this.” Fan Wenxuan spoke gravely, “In short, do as I say, and don’t ask too many questions.”

“I understand,” Chu Jinzhou nodded vigorously.

He trusted his teacher’s word, especially when Chu Jinnian was involved. He couldn’t be careless now.