Under the inspiration of Grandpa Li, Xiaocui began to reassess her action plan. She realized that to truly change Shen Qingya's fate, merely making small moves within the household was far from enough. She needed bolder actions and true self-reliance.
Xiaocui decided to leverage her skills and knowledge to start a small business. She remembered that in her previous life, some simple herbal knowledge had helped both her and Shen Qingya through tough times. In this life, she aimed to turn that knowledge into practical assistance.
She started searching for medicinal plants in the garden, carefully collecting them and secretly making herbal ointments and medicinal wines at home. Xiaocui knew that these ointments were remarkably effective for treating minor ailments and that there was significant demand for them in the market.
At first, Xiaocui only sold these ointments secretly to other servants in the household. Gradually, her ointments gained a reputation for their effectiveness, and even some commoners outside the estate began to hear about them.
Shen Qingya watched Xiaocui busy every day with curiosity and admiration. One day, she approached Xiaocui and asked earnestly, "Xiaocui, what have you been busy with these days? Can you tell me?"
Xiaocui knew it was time to confess her plan to Shen Qingya. She revealed everything about making the herbal ointments and her idea of earning money through this small business.
Upon hearing this, a look of surprise flashed in Shen Qingya's eyes: "Xiaocui, you are so clever! Can I join you? Let's do this together!"
Xiaocui was touched and nodded; she had never expected Shen Qingya would be willing to lower her status to engage in such a business with her. From that day on, Shen Qingya also began learning about herbs, and the two of them collected herbs together and made ointments.
As the business gradually flourished, Xiaocui and Shen Qingya saved up a small amount of money. They used this money to improve their living conditions and accumulate some capital for themselves. More importantly, this process taught Shen Qingya how to think independently and solve problems, subtly changing her worldview and values.
Shen Qingya's life became vibrant with the addition of Xiaocui, and their shared herbal business gradually got on track. However, the storm of fate always arrives quietly. One day, news of tragedy struck the household—Shen Qingya's mother, the lady of the house, passed away due to illness.
Upon hearing this news, Shen Qingya felt as if struck by lightning, plunging into deep sorrow. Xiaocui looked at Shen Qingya with tear-filled eyes, her heart a mix of emotions. She knew that although Shen Qingya's mother held a high position in the household, her love for Shen Qingya was genuine.
The funeral was conducted with great solemnity, but Shen Qingya's heart felt hollow. Xiaocui silently stayed by Shen Qingya's side, offering her the greatest support and comfort. She understood that at this moment, what Shen Qingya needed most was companionship and understanding.
During the mourning period, the affairs of the household became even busier as the new mistress, Wu Qing, took over and began to reorganize personnel and matters within the estate. Xiaocui worried that Shen Qingya would face more pressure and injustice; she decided to be even more careful in protecting Shen Qingya.
After the funeral, Shen Qingya's emotions gradually settled, but her gaze held more determination. She knew that after her mother's passing, her position in the household might be affected; she had to be stronger to protect herself and Xiaocui.
“Xiaocui, my mother has passed away, and things in the household may change,” Shen Qingya said softly. “But we cannot give up because of this; we must work harder for my mother and for ourselves.”
Xiaocui tightly grasped Shen Qingya's hand, her eyes filled with resolve: “Miss Shen, you are right. No matter what happens, I will stay by your side; we will face it together.”
In the days that followed, Shen Qingya began to actively participate in household affairs. She not only aimed to safeguard her rights but also sought to create more opportunities for Xiaocui. Meanwhile, Xiaocui remained busy making herbal ointments and bouquets, using her efforts to support Shen Qingya.
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