The iron gate was open, and several well-dressed servants stood at the entrance, bowing as she stepped out of the car. “Good morning, Miss.” Their etiquette was impeccable. She smirked without comment as someone led her forward, saying, “The madam is waiting for you in the small parlor on the second floor.”
Madam? Already calling her that before marriage, Zuo Shaoqing really knew how to manage! The first floor of the villa was empty except for an enormous hall and an overly long corridor. The ceiling hung with massive purple crystal chandeliers, the floor covered with uniform red carpets, floor-to-ceiling windows with burgundy velvet curtains. At the end of the corridor was the grand hall, usually used for social balls, otherwise empty. The other side of the corridor led to a staircase with white, faux ivory handrails, and as she imagined, pure white wool carpets on the steps. A maid had already brought slippers for her to change into and led her upstairs.
Dong Qin paid little attention to the luxurious decor on the second floor, following the corridor to the third room on the left, which was the small parlor. Zuo Shaoqing, wearing a casual robe with a face mask, nodded when she saw her. “Xiao Ai, take Miss’s things to the third floor. Her room is all set up, right?”
The maid Xiao Ai respectfully replied, “Yes, everything was prepared yesterday. Miss can move in at any time.”
Zuo Shaoqing waved her hand, “Dong Qin, go with her to get settled. I’ll have someone call you down later.”
