Chapter 9 - Changing New Furniture (2)
What stunned An Yun was how fast these people worked. In less than two hours, his yard had completely transformed its appearance. The bedding had been replaced from the original cotton quilts to Tibetan quilts. There was a blue silk brocade quilt, wooden hangings beside the bed, and even a carpet on the floor.
If An Yun’s original small courtyard could only be called a nice little house, after this experience, it could be considered truly elegant.
An Yun was initially shocked when he saw it, but he quickly realized his knowledge was shallow. This was the heritage of a big family, and such transformations were normal here. He shouldn’t be surprised.
Qing Yue led the workers to do this, and only after ensuring that An Yun had no other needs, did she leave.
Before departing, she even told An Yun that if he needed anything in the future, he could simply ask anyone to find her, and she would come.
An Yun pondered her words. If he could summon her through anyone, she must hold significant influence and prestige in this household.
Thinking this, An Yun politely smiled at her and responded, “I understand, thank you.”
Upon hearing this, Qing Yue turned and departed. However, she hesitated before leaving. She wanted to leave behind two maids. Yet, even after careful consideration of the young master’s instructions, she refrained from taking action on her own initiative and decided to consult the young master first.
Once An Yun ensured all servants and maids had departed, he dropped the calm facade he had put up in front of others and began to explore the newly refurbished courtyard.
As he wandered, An Yun lamented the extravagance of ancient feudal nobles. He even suspected the wooden hangings beside his bed might be valuable.
.
After Qing Yue left the small courtyard where An Yun resided, she dismissed the remaining servants, leaving only the two maids who had accompanied her, and proceeded to the kitchen where An Yun had recently been found.
It was nearing lunchtime. As the kitchen dedicated to preparing meals for the young master, everyone here understood their duties well.
Aware of the time constraints, they couldn’t afford to delay the young master’s meal. After all, the young master’s affairs took top priority in the household.
Therefore, when Qing Yue approached, the maids in the kitchen were bringing out the food one after another, setting aside portions for both the young master and An Yun.
Qing Yue halted a passing maid carrying dishes, surveyed the offerings on both trays, and felt reasonably satisfied before waving her hand to allow the maid to proceed.
Immediately after, Qing Yue continued into the kitchen. Upon her entry, someone noticed her presence and cautiously called out, “Miss Qing Yue.”
Qing Yue nodded and instructed him, “Let’s finish preparing this meal quickly. Once it’s done, everyone can take a break. I need to address everyone here.”
The boy appeared a bit nervous upon hearing this but obediently nodded and turned back toward the kitchen to summon everyone.
Soon, all the kitchen staff emerged and lined up in front of Qing Yue, with Chef Ding positioned at the forefront.
Qing Yue smiled at Chef Ding and spoke, “I came here this time to receive instructions from the young master, but I almost forgot this matter. Currently, the young master still lacks a chef at the summer resort in Chengxian County. After careful consideration, I believe Chef Ding would be the best fit for this role.”
Chef Ding was taken aback upon hearing this. What kind of place was this summer resort? It sounded pleasant, but in reality, it was just a backwater place. He was in charge of the young master’s kitchen in this mansion, a position with historical significance despite its modest appearance. Though unassuming, he held authority and could accomplish much here.
If he had to leave such a good job for a place with no prospects, Chef Ding naturally opposed the idea. He even felt incredulous that a young girl like Qing Yue could decide his fate so arbitrarily.
Just as Chef Ding raised his head, preparing to argue with the young black-haired girl before him, he suddenly met Qing Yue’s smiling yet cold gaze, and his words froze in his mouth.
Seeing Chef Ding’s reaction, Qing Yue maintained her gaze and calmly asked, “Chef Ding, do you have any objections?”
Chef Ding dared not voice any objections. After all, within the mansion, Qing Yue could be considered half a steward, and even in the young master’s yard, her words carried more weight than the steward’s.
Chef Ding felt he must have offended someone influential, probably the beautiful shuanger just now. He regretted not being more polite earlier.
Despite his regrets, Chef Ding knew better than to refuse Qing Yue’s request. With bitterness, he replied, “No, I have no objection.”
Satisfied with his response, Qing Yue dismissed him. A new chef would take over in the afternoon, leaving Chef Ding to return to his duties with a downcast expression.
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Upon returning to Zang Ya’s quarters, the young master had already finished lunch but appeared discontented, picking at his food.
Qing Yue informed Zang Ya of what had transpired, including Chef Ding’s reassignment and the refurbishment of An Yun’s yard. Zang Ya seemed indifferent to Chef Ding’s fate but showed interest when Qing Yue mentioned An Yun’s desire to brew wine for him as a gesture of gratitude for his care.
Zang Ya’s expression flickered with some emotion, muttering, “It seems Song Lin’s method still holds some merit.”