The New Year's Eve at the An Manor was exceptionally lively.
An Gui had specifically instructed the kitchen to set up a hot pot and slice several plates of thin mutton. The family gathered around the table, eating and drinking in utmost comfort.
A Mei sat lazily in her chair, right next to An Sheng. Her complexion was rosy, making her delicate face look even more vivid and adorable. Her features radiated an indescribable glow; anyone could see she was the very picture of sweet happiness.
This was especially true as An Sheng would first boil the mutton, fish it out, let it cool to the perfect temperature, and then personally feed it to A Mei.
Every time she opened her mouth, the sweetness in A Mei's eyes seemed as if it would spill over.
The two of them were so deeply affectionate, acting as if there was no one else around. Let alone An Gui and A Mei's father, even Douzi couldn't help but steal glance after glance at them.
Suddenly, Douzi spoke up in a crisp voice, Brother-in-law is so good to my sister. He even feeds her when we eat.
A child's mind had no convoluted thoughts, naturally saying whatever came to mind.
A Mei's small face blushed red. She shot An Sheng a sideways glance and said half-heartedly, I told you I could eat by myself, but my husband insisted on feeding me. Just leave me be, I'll get the food myself.
An Sheng curled the corners of his lips. In front of his godfather, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, he spoke unhurriedly. His tone was gentle but left no room for refusal, That won't do. How could I let my wife tire herself out? I am more than happy to serve my wife.
An Gui raised his eyebrows slightly. These words sounded rather familiar. He simply stayed silent, maintaining a calm and breezy demeanor.
A Mei's father was not as composed as An Gui. He naturally knew that his son-in-law held a position of high authority and weight as the Commander of the Inner Depot. The rumors about him were truly terrifying, so he usually felt a mixture of fear and respect toward his son-in-law. Never did he expect to see his son-in-law cherish his daughter so deeply. Looking at his in-law beside him, who looked completely accustomed to this, A Mei's father couldn't help but widen his eyes in astonishment. He then let out a low, masking cough and began to pick up food with his chopsticks, bite after bite.
Douzi, on the other hand, had his eyes light up. He picked up a piece of meat from his own bowl and placed it into A Mei's bowl, saying, Then Douzi wants to serve Sister too.
The next moment, An Sheng picked up that piece of meat and put it right back into Douzi's bowl.
Meeting Douzi's confused and innocent eyes, he said meaningfully, Douzi, your sister has her husband here, so she doesn't need anyone else to serve her. You are still young. When you grow up and marry a wife, you will naturally have plenty of opportunities to serve someone.
Douzi let out an oh. A flash of confusion crossed his large eyes, but eventually, he nodded, seemingly understanding yet not quite grasping it. Alright then. When Douzi grows up, I will serve my wife too.
An Sheng cast Douzi a look that said the boy was worth teaching.
Beside him, A Mei couldn't help but burst into a giggle. She secretly reached out and pinched An Sheng at his waist, glaring at him as she complained softly with a blushing face, Oh my, what are you saying, Husband! Douzi is so young, what does he know?
The corners of An Sheng's mouth curled up uncontrollably, and he said as a matter of fact, It's because he doesn't know that I have to teach him in advance.
A Mei simply pinched An Sheng again.
A Mei didn't use much force, but An Sheng suddenly let out an ouch, looking entirely innocent. I'm telling the truth. I don't know how I offended my wife, but here she is, pinching me.
Douzi gave A Mei a disapproving look. He immediately decided to stand on the side of reason rather than family, speaking up for his brother-in-law: Sister, Brother-in-law is so good to you. Why are you bullying him?
A Mei: ...
...
The New Year's Eve at the An Manor was brightly lit and filled with cheerful laughter. As the night watchman's bell rang to signal midnight, the sound of firecrackers erupted all across the capital. Myriad homes were brilliantly illuminated as the common people bid farewell to the past year together, praying to ward off evil spirits and for good fortune and happiness in the coming year.
