The journey from Yiyang Town to Ningzhou wasn't particularly far, but it wasn't exactly close either.
Traveling with children and the whole family meant frequent stops to rest, which extended the journey time.
It wasn't until four days later that the family finally arrived in Ningzhou City.
Due to these delays, Luo Shiyan had arrived earlier than them.
Calculating that Luo Ge and the others would likely arrive today, he had been waiting at the city gates since early morning.
Fortunately, as evening approached, he finally spotted the figures of his parents, sister, and in-laws.
"You've finally made it," he said. "I've had them prepare a feast at home. Let's head back quickly."
This move of his sister's family to Ningzhou naturally called for a welcoming celebration.
Unlike Yiyang Town, Ningzhou City was still bustling with activity even though it was already evening.
There was a steady stream of people entering from outside the city, and shops along the way home had lit their lamps.
"The gates of Ningzhou City don't close until the Hour of the Pig (9-11 pm). There's even a night market that's more lively than during the day," Luo Shiyan explained with a smile as Luo Ge took in the sights. "Let's rest tonight, and if you're interested, we can go out exploring tomorrow."
"There are quite a few interesting places to visit around Ningzhou. I'll take you all around when we have time."
"Sounds good," Luo Ge nodded. She enjoyed sightseeing, especially with someone familiar to guide them.
The house Luo Ge and her family had chosen was not far from the Luo Mansion, just in the next alley. They could directly access the Luo Mansion through the back garden gate.
Since it was so close, they first let Qiu Niang and the others go back to settle in.
This time, Qiu Niang's family, along with Gu Dong, Gu Nan, Uncle Song, and others had all come along.
Gu Xi and Gu Bei had stayed behind in the town to look after the house and manage the estate.
"Ge'er, come with mother," Lady Qian said, pulling Luo Ge to an exquisite small courtyard within the Luo Residence after dinner at the Luo Family's.
The courtyard walls were covered in flowering vines, with a swing set in the corner and many beautiful flowers and plants throughout.
The entire courtyard was decorated with light blue gauze.
From the courtyard to the indoor screens, tables, chairs, wardrobes, and beds, to the flower arrangements and ornaments, everything had been carefully selected.
The side rooms in the courtyard included a study and a music room, fully equipped with all kinds of books and musical instruments available in the current dynasty.
One could both expand their knowledge through reading and cultivate their interests.
Undeniably, no girl could resist such an exquisite courtyard.
Luo Ge was no exception.
"Do you like it?" Lady Qian asked softly, looking at Luo Ge as they viewed the courtyard.
Even before Luo Ge was born, she had already planned such a courtyard for her.
However, her little Nuonuo never had the chance to live in it...
Later, every time they moved to a new place, she would set up such a courtyard.
Now that her Nuonuo had finally returned, this little courtyard had at last welcomed its rightful owner.
Hearing the question, Luo Ge nodded, "I love it."
Seeing Luo Ge's delight, Lady Qian was also very happy.
"That's good. In the future, if Jinchen ever upsets you, you can stay here. No matter what, the Luo Mansion will always be your home."
In truth, if possible, she would prefer her daughter to always live here.
But there was no helping it – her daughter was married now, and they couldn't let her son-in-law be laughed at by others.
Fortunately, the two families lived close by now, so frequent visits and stays wouldn't be a problem.
"Alright," Luo Ge said with a smile, nodding as she noticed the reluctance in Lady Qian's eyes.
Gu Jinchen, who had come looking for Luo Ge with their child in his arms, overheard this conversation between mother and daughter just as he stepped into the courtyard.
Looking down at his little daughter in his arms with a pout, he gently pinched her soft, chubby cheeks.
"Your father won't give them the chance," he mumbled softly.
"Ya ya, ya~" Little Ziqin, whether she understood or not, chimed in agreeably.
Hearing the sound, the mother and daughter in the courtyard both turned their heads.
"Mother, we'll head back for today and come to visit you again tomorrow. Please rest early," Luo Ge said, seeing Gu Jinchen had come to fetch her and knowing it was time to leave.
"Alright, be careful on your way back in the night," Lady Qian replied.
"We will," Luo Ge assured her.
