Chapter 952 Dinner Party

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

“I doubt it,” Gu Chengsi admitted. “My performance reviews were excellent the past three years, but the first year’s rating was just so-so.’”

“Excellent is good enough. Hopefully, a promotion opens up this time,” Gu Chengrui replied.

“Speaking of promotions,” Gu Chengsi continued, “I heard Chengxi married King An’s daughter.”

“Yes, a concubine’s child. Second Uncle gave them a separate house after their marriage, and they’re doing quite well.

“We’ll have a family gathering tomorrow at noon; let’s have a nice meal together.”

“Separate houses are best. It keeps everyone comfortable,” Gu Chengsi agreed. “How’s the Empress doing?”

“She’s fine. The palace is peaceful, with only three of them now. Besides managing affairs, she cares for the children and lives comfortably,” Gu Chengrui explained.

“A rare and good Emperor,” Gu Chengsi remarked. “Especially in his self-control regarding women.”

Gu Chengrui nodded. “Agreed. Now, about the capital, there’s been a shift in power dynamics.”

“With the Third Prince’s birth, some court officials advocate for a Crown Prince,” he explained. “The Emperor rejected it, but with life’s uncertainties, be cautious and avoid getting entangled in court politics.”

“Is the First Prince a frontrunner?”

“Yes, but it’s too early,” Gu Chengrui said with a smile. “An early appointment wouldn’t necessarily benefit him either.”

He then explained the reasoning he’d shared earlier.

“So, appointing one too early has drawbacks,” Gu Chengsi mused.

“Pros and cons exist, but the drawbacks seem stronger,” Gu Chengrui agreed.

Gu Chengsi nodded in understanding, and they switched to discussing business matters.

Zhou Ying prepared a delicious feast of twelve dishes and soup that evening. The two families celebrated the New Year together. Afterwards, the brothers conversed while Zhou Ying and Mrs. Bai entertained the children with riddles.

Impressed with Guoguo’s literacy, Mrs. Bai asked, “Sister-in-law, when did you start teaching Guoguo?”

“Almost two years ago. I began after I got pregnant with Chenchen.”

“Isn’t that raising her like a son?”

“If she’s interested, let her learn. Girls in the capital typically will learn something, some even starting as soon as they can hold a needle.”

“No wonder the girls in the capital are so talented!” Mrs. Bai exclaimed.

“Seeing the Eldest Princess start her education inspired me to do the same with Guoguo.”

“Looks like I need to get tough on Xin’er,” Mrs. Bai said, then playfully tested Guoguo’s knowledge. To her surprise, she struggled with questions Guoguo easily answered.

A sense of inferiority and urgency washed over her. With her husband’s rising position, how could he look favorably on someone unrefined like her? Perhaps she needed to learn more.

Later, as the children grew drowsy, Zhou Ying handed them to a nanny and led Mrs. Bai to the East Courtyard. “The room’s a bit small,” Zhou Ying apologized, “but the children are young, so it should be manageable..”