In the evening, the Zhou family enjoyed a lively hotpot meal. Had it not been for their commitment to frugality, the variety of side dishes would have been even more complete. Fortunately, there was an abundance of fresh vegetables now, making it a decent hotpot.
The lingering gloom over the Hou Residence finally dissipated. The news spread across the capital, and countless people secretly cursed the Zhou family's good fortune.
After the hotpot, Zhulan, in high spirits, strolled through the garden with Zhou Shuren. Their full bellies comfortably settled, and after returning for a bath, the couple intended to chat for a while. However, as soon as their heads hit the pillows, they fell asleep.
They slept soundly until dawn. Zhou Shuren almost couldn't force himself up when the morning came. Dazed as he woke, he washed his face and headed to morning court in good spirits.
Zhou Shuren smiled at everyone he met, and the officials all extended their congratulations.
