After more than an hour, Han Li, along with Qin Yan, emerged from the secret chamber, once again assuming the appearance of a country bumpkin.
Back in the living room, the patriarch of the Qin family, in front of his three wives, immediately instructed someone to tidy up a clean place in the rear courtyard for Han Li to stay permanently at the Qin Mansion.
On the surface, the reason was noble – the patriarch wanted to nurture this junior to repay the great favor his ancestors had bestowed upon him.
Upon seeing this, the third wife opened her mouth but refrained from voicing any objections!
Being shrewd, she could tell that Qin Yan had already made up his mind and wouldn't tolerate any opposition. Moreover, she felt there was definitely some secret between this Han nephew and her husband.
However, since Qin Yan hadn't shared the details with her, she naturally wouldn't do anything to risk falling out of favor.
However, she couldn't help but speculate wildly. Could it be that her husband had fathered a child outside when he was young? Otherwise, why would he show such disappointment when reading the letter and then suddenly become so enthusiastic?
This overly astute third wife felt increasingly uneasy. Yet, she maintained a calm expression on her face and became even more cordial towards Han Li.
With repeated instructions from Patriarch Qin, Han Li followed Qin Ping out of the hall once again to inspect the lodging's satisfaction.
This time, Qin Ping's expression was no longer as rigid as before; instead, he wore a smile and kept addressing Han Li as "Young Master Han!" He conveniently chose to forget his previous coldness towards Han Li.
Although Han Li appeared flattered on the surface, inwardly, he couldn't help but sigh at the remarkable skill of these ordinary people in manipulating situations. Their seamless transition from arrogance to humility showed either a thick skin or a habit of behaving this way.
Qin Ping then led Han Li along the paths of the rear courtyard, arriving at a secluded courtyard.
The surroundings were elegant and exquisite, exceptionally tranquil, which made Han Li nod in approval, finding it very much to his liking.
It seemed that Qin Yan had put some effort into selecting a good place for him to stay.
"Young Master Han, this is your residence! This is the best courtyard in the Qin Mansion. Normally, if it weren't for the esteemed guests favored by the Patriarch, no one would be allowed to stay here!" Qin Ping explained fawningly as he led Han Li into the courtyard.
Han Li scratched his head, grinning foolishly, seemingly at a loss for words.
Qin Ping tactfully skipped over this and changed the subject, "Young Master Han, I suppose you haven't had dinner yet? I'll have the kitchen bring you some food. Please wait a moment!"
With these words, Qin Ping respectfully backed out of the courtyard and left.
Seeing the man gradually leaving, Han Li smiled faintly, then turned and pushed open the door.
The rooms were arranged in a manner that matched the surroundings, exuding elegance and refinement.
After a brief tour, Han Li felt increasingly satisfied, unable to help but wonder who had arranged this place.
Qin Ping was indeed quick on his feet! In no time, a maid arrived carrying a large bamboo box of food.
The aroma of the food tempted Han Li, who had been fasting for several years. He unabashedly devoured all the exquisite dishes and a bowl of rice.
