A long redwood table was placed near the main courtyard, covered in a dark red cloth embroidered with golden cloud patterns. Behind it stood several servants with record books, ink brushes, and rows of neatly arranged return-gift boxes.
The boxes came in different sizes, similar to the ones given to Wen Qinglan and her maids.
Some were small and delicate, tied with red ribbons. Some were medium-sized and decorated with simple gold seals. The largest boxes were made from polished wood and carried the faint fragrance of fresh pastries even before they were opened.
Li Xinyue stood beside the table, checking the servants' arrangement one final time.
"Record every gift properly," she instructed: "Follow the arrangement my third brother made, One large gift box receives one large dessert box. One medium gift box receives one medium dessert box. Small boxes receive small boxes. If someone brings several boxes, give the same number back."
The servants nodded: "Yes, Miss Xinyue."
