LIGHTNOVELONLINE Chapter 276: Tea Party III
After the tea party had concluded, Chang Ah escorted the guests to the entrance of the Yang Household, ensuring that she didn't forget to offer small tokens of appreciation to each of them. While she may not have come from a noble background, having been Yang Luoyang's wife for many years had taught her the intricacies of hosting such formal gatherings.
As Chang Ah stood at the entrance, politely waving goodbye to the departing ladies as they boarded their carriages one by one, her smile gradually faded. Her expression turned from one of hospitality to one of gloom once they were out of sight. She clenched her fists, gritted her teeth, and angrily removed the necklace she was wearing, throwing it onto the ground. "Damn it!
Yang Ning is such a cunning fox! I'll tear that woman to pieces," she growled with fury before storming into the Yang Household's courtyard.
She stared at the tea cups and cutlery on a small table being cleaned by servants, her anger evident as she swiped her hands across the table, knocking everything to the ground. Her eyes reddened with anger as she recalled the disdainful smirks of the other ladies while they humiliated her, discussing Yang Ning's tea party.
Chang Ah's maid, Xing Bao, who had been following her worriedly, spoke up, "Madam, please don't let anger show on your face. It may cause wrinkles. You can teach that woman a lesson tomorrow, but for now, try to remain calm."
Chang Ah glared at her but then noticed a few pimples on her face and even spotted a white hair yesterday. A shiver ran down her spine. She immediately suppressed her anger, taking a deep breath to calm herself. She couldn't let her beauty suffer because of Yang Ning; she couldn't afford to lose Yang Luoyang's favor. Read new chapters at m_v-l'e|m,p| y r
Her looks were the only reason why she had him wrapped around her finger; otherwise, he would have discarded her by now.
Chang Ah nodded in agreement and remarked, "You're right. I have numerous ways to teach that woman a lesson. Even though she didn't invite me to the party, I will find a way to attend."
"After all, I am her mother. She wouldn't dare send me away in front of everyone. Such an action would only damage her reputation, and people would surely gossip about it. I have nothing to lose, but Yang Ning could lose everything if her standing among the ladies is tarnished," Chang Ah concluded, satisfied with her strategy.
She glanced at Xing Bao and said, "Xing Bao, please bring all the blue dresses and matching jewelry to my chamber. I need to decide what to wear tomorrow." Having already informed Mrs. Liu of her intention to wear a blue dress tomorrow, she had no choice but to settle on one.
After giving an order to her maid, she turned on her heels and headed inside the house to select a suitable blue dress for the occasion.
Xing Bao looked at the fading back of Chang Ah, politely bowed, and responded, "Of course, Madam. I will bring them to you right away."
____
The following day, in the garden in front of the Dragon Pavilion, Yang Ning had meticulously prepared for the tea party within a charming arbor. This enchanting setting was truly straight out of a fairy tale.
The arbor itself was adorned with delicate, embroidered lace white curtains that billowed gently in the breeze, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Nearby, a picturesque pond teemed with small, colorful fish, their movements adding a lively touch to the scene.
On the opposite side of the arbor, vibrant flowers of various hues bloomed in abundance, lending vibrant colors and a fragrant aroma to the surroundings.
The overall effect was nothing short of magical, with the arbor serving as the centerpiece of the garden, an inviting haven for guests to gather and enjoy the tea party in a serene and captivating ambiance.
In the heart of the arbor stood a grand circular table, its polished wooden surface gleaming. Around this central piece, chairs were neatly positioned, awaiting guests. On the table, silver cutlery lay precisely placed, each setting a mirror of the next. At the center of it all, a vibrant bouquet of flowers added a splash of color, completing the welcoming scene for the tea party.
"Xiaowei, have you made sure the kitchen staff arranged the snacks and tea just as I have instructed?" Yang Ning asked, her eyes scanning the checklist for the arbor's decorations outside the Dragon Pavilion. Since it was her first time hosting a tea party, she had been dedicated, working tirelessly to ensure the tea party was perfect.
She had poured her efforts into guiding the gardeners, transforming the garden to reflect her vision. As Crown Princess, she knew the success of palace events partly rested on her shoulders. Looking around, she felt a swell of pride; her hard work had paid off—the garden looked stunning.
Xiaowei, noticing Yang Ning's anxious expression, offered a reassuring smile and nodded. "Yes, Your Highness. Everything has been meticulously prepared. You can put your worries to rest. All arrangements have been completed, and when the guests arrive, I will ensure that tea and snacks are served promptly."
"Xiaowei is right. You don't need to concern yourself; everything will go smoothly," Yu Ling chimed in as she arrived and overheard Yang Ning's anxious words.
Yang Ning regarded her with a sigh. It was true that she was feeling apprehensive; it was her first time hosting a tea party, and it was only natural to be concerned. Any missteps could not only tarnish her reputation but also that of Zheng Liang.
From what she had heard, the noble ladies possessed considerable influence. They were adept at spreading rumors, and their words, whether in praise or condemnation, could significantly impact someone's societal standing.
"I truly hope everything proceeds without a hitch," Yang Ning sighed, her lips forming a worried pout.
Yu Ling shook her head reassuringly and replied, "I assure you, everything will go smoothly. Please don't fret. Furthermore, I have organized the gifts precisely as per your instructions and instructed the maids to place them in your chamber. I am confident that the guests will adore your thoughtful presents."
Yang Ning exhaled deeply and admitted, "I hope so. I am placing quite a bet on those gifts. They could either be a resounding success or a complete miss," she murmured, her concerns still lingering.