Surprised, he asked, "Mother, why are you here so early?"
Typically, Old Madam Shen visited around noon to spend time with Shen Rui, making her early arrival unusual.
Caught off guard by her son's sudden appearance, Old Madam Shen replied, "I heard that the woman who saved—"
Shen Yuze interrupted gently, "Li Xiyan."
Confused, she asked, "Pardon?"
He clarified, "Her name is Li Xiyan."
Nodding in understanding, Old Madam Shen continued, "I heard that Ms. Li woke up yesterday, so I decided to visit early today and brought some soup I prepared. I'll have someone bring it up. Is she awake? I'd like to thank her personally for saving Rui'er."
Shen Yuze nodded, "Yes, she's awake—"
Before he could finish, the door opened, drawing their attention.
To their astonishment, Li Xiyan stood at the door, supported by Nurse Lin.
Old Madam Shen, visibly concerned, exclaimed, "Ms. Li, why are you up? You should be resting."
Li Xiyan was momentarily taken aback upon seeing Old Madam Shen, a familiar figure from her past as Yan Xiuran.
Turning to Shen Yuze, Li Xiyan spoke with determination, "I... want to stay."
Shen Yuze was taken aback, noting the glint of resolve in her eyes. He was about to respond when another voice interjected.
"That's wonderful to hear," Old Madam Shen beamed as she approached Li Xiyan. She gently took Li Xiyan's hands in hers, "How are you feeling? You should rest and not push yourself too hard; it's only been a day since you woke up."
Li Xiyan was surprised by Old Madam Shen's demeanor.
In her previous encounters as Yan Xiuran, due to their families' rivalry, Old Madam Shen would often cast her disapproving looks, her eyes narrowing whenever they crossed paths.
Also, their conversations had always been laced with biting remarks.
Hesitantly, Li Xiyan replied, "I'm okay, Old Madam Shen..."
She glanced at Shen Yuze, uncertain of how to react to this unexpected kindness.
Shen Yuze sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Mother, please, let her be. She just wants to recover faster."
Li Xiyan offered a small smile to the older woman. "I'm trying to walk around to speed up my recovery..."
Old Madam Shen nodded and gently guided Li Xiyan back into the room. "That's good to hear, but come inside and rest. I've prepared a special soup for you; it's rich in nutrients to aid your recovery. I made it myself."
Turning to Shen Yuze, she added, "Please have someone bring the soup I brought, and ensure Rui'er has some as well."
Shen Yuze nodded and could only leave.
Old Madam Shen guided Li Xiyan back to her bed, her grip gentle yet firm.
Nurse Lin supported her other side, leaving Li Xiyan little choice but to follow their lead, pressing her lips.
I still want to walk though.
Once she was comfortably settled, Li Xiyan murmured, "Thank you..."
Old Madam Shen's eyes softened as she gazed at Li Xiyan. "It is I who should be thanking you, Ms. Li," she began, her voice filled with emotion, "we cannot thank you enough for saving Rui'er. Your selflessness has given our family a gift beyond measure."
She paused, taking a gentle breath. "I understand you acted without expecting anything in return. Nevertheless, please tell us how we might repay you. We owe you a debt that, no matter how much we try, we can never fully repay. Rui'er is our most cherished treasure."
Li Xiyan felt a warmth rise within her, unaccustomed to such heartfelt gratitude.
She managed a small nod, words escaping her in the face of such sincerity.
Old Madam Shen continued, "Please, don't hesitate to let us know if there's anything we can do for you. Your kindness has forever bound you to our family."
Li Xiyan's heart pounded as Old Madam Shen's words echoed in her mind.
Your kindness has forever bound you to our family.
The corner of Li Xiyan's mouth twitched, as she avoided the older woman's gaze.
Bound to the Shen Family?
That's the last thing she wants right now.
Sensing Li Xiyan's discomfort, Old Madam Shen offered a gentle smile. "Please, don't feel pressured. We simply wish to express our gratitude. If there's anything you need during your recovery, don't hesitate to let us know."
Li Xiyan nodded. "Thank you, Old Madam Shen. Your family's hospitality is more than enough."
As Li Xiyan lay in bed, the door opened, drawing her attention.
To her surprise, Shen Yuze entered, carrying a tray laden with a steaming bowl and several small plates. Beside him stood Shen Rui, her eyes bright with anticipation.
A small smile graced Li Xiyan's lips at the sight of the little girl.
Old Madam Shen, noticing her granddaughter's presence, asked, "Rui'er, what are you doing here? I thought you had lessons."
Shen Yuze's expression shifted subtly, a slight downturn of his mouth betraying mild disapproval. "She skipped. She'll return shortly."
Li Xiyan couldn't help but smile, thinking it was just like skipping class in school.
Shen Rui, already donned in her gloves and mask, nodded earnestly. "I just wanted to make sure Sister Xiyan is doing well."
Shen Yuze placed the tray on the bedside table.
With all three of the Shens now in the room, Li Xiyan felt a bit nervous.
Why are they all here now?
The only one missing was Old Master Shen and they could have a family reunion in her room.