Xia Ruqing gave the Empress a way out.
The atmosphere finally eased, no longer so awkward.
The Empress also composed herself considerably, and Noble Concubine Shih dared not say much either.
The entire Third Day Bathing Ceremony wasn't so embarrassing after all.
When the midday meal was served, everyone ate a bit.
After the meal, they chatted and laughed for a while, and then everyone dispersed.
Zhao Junyao, being busy with government affairs, didn't stay long either.
After instructing others to take good care of Xia Ruqing, he left.
Xiao Xizi was leading people outside, tidying up.
Xia Ruqing, holding her child, returned to the inner chamber.
Exhausted from the long hours, she sank back onto the bed with a deep sigh of relief.
"So tiring!"
Zi Yue brought over a bowl of soup noodles and placed it in front of her.
"My lady, you didn't eat much just now. Please eat some more!"
Xia Ruqing looked at the soup noodles and then said, "Is it... without salt again?"
