County Magistrate Yang discreetly assessed Qiao Xuan. She noticed his gaze but chose not to respond.
He was a stranger to her.
As the men and women took their seats, County Magistrate Qiao exchanged greetings with County Magistrate Yang through the screen, while Madame Qiao greeted Madame Tang alongside Qiao Xuan.
Once the banquet began, Madame Qiao wore a bright smile and welcomed their guests warmly. Madame Tang reciprocated the greetings but avoided direct eye contact with Qiao Xuan. Occasionally, their eyes met briefly before Madame Tang looked away.
Suddenly, Madame Qiao let out a sigh and glanced at Qiao Xuan as she spoke to Madame Tang with a smile. "Our Old Master will be transferred back to the capital in a few months. It may be challenging for our families to meet again, which is why he believes it's important to treat Madame Tang and Officer Yang well before we depart. After all, we could have become relatives!"