The early spring sunlight was clear and bright, casting a warm glow over the courtyard. Zhao Yang and Lady Sun stepped into the Glazed Pavilion.
"Stay lying down—don't get up," Zhao Yang said as she rushed forward, pressing Shen Wei back onto the daybed when she noticed her attempting to rise.
Shen Wei was still in her postpartum confinement period, spending most of her days resting. However, she disliked lying in bed all day, so she had Cai Lian and Cai Ping bring over a chaise lounge, covering it with thick blankets and cushions. Shen Wei reclined against it, reviewing account books and writing.
An exquisitely crafted cradle sat nearby, and Shen Wei occasionally rose to glance at her child.
Cai Ping and Cai Lian brought chairs for the guests.
Zhao Yang and Sun Qingmei took their seats, both brimming with curiosity about Shen Wei's baby. They leaned over the cradle, gazing at the peacefully sleeping infant.
