Chapter 09

Looking up to the other side, I saw some portfolios placed on the shelves. With the thick fog, I casually pulled one out and opened it, and quite coincidentally, I came across a picture of the Ning family.

Regardless of the age difference between the two women, the desire for beauty is always a commonality. They can discuss topics ranging from eyebrow shaping and facial care to how to maintain their toenails. If they were to delve into a detailed discussion, it is likely that they could talk for three days and nights without exhausting the subject. Therefore, Wu Nong and Du Ruo share a great deal of common language.

As for the small and exquisite garden, with its classical elegance, every blade of grass and every tree is arranged just perfectly

"It's no trouble at all. Both Ning Mo and his father are like this; whenever they encounter something of interest, they forget everything else." Du Ruo's thoughtfulness greatly increased Wu Nongnong's fondness for her, even leading her to wish that Ning Mo had even half of his mother's grace in dealing with others.

Ning Mo noncommittally nodded to his mother and then went upstairs

How are you here

With a tone full of astonishment, "How could you..."

Looking back now, the design of the Ning family evokes a very familiar feeling in Wu Nongnong. It is not that she has seen it before, but rather that she feels she has encountered this design style at some point in the past, though she cannot recall when.

This seems to be the first time Wu Nongnong seriously scrutinizes Lu Fang's mother. Noble and graceful, she does not appear to be a woman nearing sixty; rather, she looks to be in her early forties. There is a resemblance to Ning Mo on her face, and it is likely that Ning Mo's handsome demeanor, which is characterized by a robust and elegant quality, can also be attributed to his mother's beauty

These matters are not particularly difficult, yet one must consider the overall situation without sacrificing the details, while also adhering to aesthetic design and accommodating the principles of Feng Shui. Wu Nong Nong questions whether she can achieve even two of these points, and if perfection is required, she likely still lacks the necessary experience.

In fact, I have little impression of the so-called luminary of the domestic architecture field, Wu Nongnong. Since her move to the United States, it would not be an exaggeration to say that she has shown a preference for foreign styles in architectural design. She rarely seeks to understand domestic architects, or perhaps subconsciously, she wishes to forget everything related to her home country.

Although it was for another matter, the thick fog always gave a feeling akin to that of an ugly daughter-in-law meeting her in-laws. She blossomed into a smile and sweetly greeted the approaching noblewoman, saying: "Aunt Ning."

Wu Nongnong held the album tightly as she rushed to the small platform on the second floor of the study, where there was a large floor-to-ceiling window that perfectly captured the view of the courtyard. Comparing the album with the Ning family's scenery, Wu Nongnong continuously expressed her amazement.

I just came back. The fog smiled sweetly, "Aunt, you haven't changed at all; you are still so young and beautiful."

"The master has not returned yet, but the lady is here," said Zhang Ma, warmly taking the bag from Wu Nongnong's hands

Aunt. "The fog was thick, and I felt a bit embarrassed as I tidied my hair by my ears.

It is quite difficult to muster a smile through the thick fog, "Hmm."

I will return to change my clothes, as I have a social engagement later. As Ning Mo spoke while walking, his pace slightly halted upon entering the hall when he saw the thick fog.

Although Ning Mo is ultimately the target of Wu Nongnong, she has also considered flattering him, even at the cost of sacrificing her appearance. Unfortunately, as soon as she sees Ning Mo, all she wants to do is kick him twice

Moreover, it is rare to find Song dynasty edition thread-bound books. Although Wu Nongnong does not enjoy reading, she still understands the value of such books. Seeing her attention focused on the ancient texts, Du Ruo remarked, "These books belong to Ning Mo; he loves these books."

The two exchanged a few more pleasantries before the fog thickened and they got to the main topic: "Aunt, when will Uncle Ning be back?"

A good architect is always a good feng shui master. From the perspective of feng shui, the Ning family is situated with the mountains at their back and water in front. The Jing River, which runs through City A, has a tributary in front of the Ning family home, with the water flowing slowly and meandering along the riverbank outside their residence, making it a place that gathers wealth. It is no wonder that Ning Mo's business is thriving.

Those who have received this award can almost recite it fluently, and among these individuals, the name of the person whom Wu Nongnong admires the most is engraved on the base of the trophy before her.

In order to alleviate the awkward silence caused by Ning Mo, Du Ruo quickly suggested, "Why not go to the study? There are quite a few collections of your uncle's works there; perhaps you can find what you need."

Ning Mo's father's study can almost be described as a small library, occupying approximately 200 square meters on the second floor. Three walls are lined with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and the room is equipped with temperature control. The thick mist in the air indicates that the collection of books is particularly well-preserved.

"Nongnong, please do not take it to heart, Ning Mo is just like this." Du Ruo felt very embarrassed

Indeed, how could she, a woman who was jilted by Ning Mo, not harbor a deep-seated hatred for the Ning family? How could she still come to their door with a smile?

The fog was thick, and she had never carefully scrutinized the Ning family's courtyard. Although she found it quite elegant upon entering, the fact that it belonged to the Ning family made her feel somewhat uncomfortable. Moreover, she had come with a purpose and had not truly appreciated the scenery. Now, however, as she looked at this picture, she suddenly realized something.

Wu Nongnong nodded slightly, understanding that this was Du Ruo's good intention. She still remembered the rules of the Ning family; unless one was particularly familiar, invitations to the study were usually not extended. Wu Nongnong had visited the Ning family only a handful of times due to her initial indifference towards Ning Mo, and each visit was brief. She always thought, why should she go out of her way to socialize or please Ning Mo's parents

The thick fog nearly stunned her, and among them, one trophy was strikingly familiar; it was the Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Architecture Master Award, which she had longed for and dedicated her life to achieving.

Mist was thick, and she could always detect the sarcasm in Ning Mo's tone. Although she had prepared herself to be shameless, the pride of a wealthy young lady still lingered deep within her. She could only sulk in silence, truly unable to offer Ning Mo a pleasant expression.

I am currently teaching at the architecture department of University A, and the students are about to begin their internships. Before that, we need to hold a lecture to introduce what they can learn from their internships and what is most important to learn. Uncle Ning is a leading figure in the domestic architecture field, so I would like to invite him to give a lecture for us. I am not sure if he has the time for it. This reason sounds quite grand.

"He will be back shortly; you can ask him yourself then." Du Ruo smiled kindly, and Wu Nongnong speculated that the lecture would likely go smoothly, as the influence of a pillow talk has always been powerful

"Are you looking for him for something?" Du Ruo nodded to herself, that is how it should be, after all, one does not visit the Three Treasures Hall without a reason.

She was about to ask Ning Mo's mother who designed this, when she suddenly remembered that in a moment of forgetfulness, she had forgotten Du Ruo.

At first glance, the overall picture, shrouded in thick fog, clearly shows the handiwork of everyone involved. Since it is a home garden, there are no prominent tall buildings; however, the layout and attention to detail are uniquely ingenious, even to the point of being masterfully crafted. The thick fog instantly piqued interest, as if a wine enthusiast had encountered a fine vintage.

As Wu Nong was about to voice her inquiry regarding the earlier question, she happened to catch sight of the shelf behind Du Ruo, which was filled to the brim with trophies

Just as the conversation was getting lively, the sound of a car driving into the gate was heard. Moments later, Zhang Ma's voice could be heard, "Young Master, why did you finish work so early today?"

Upon further examination of this residence, one can deeply appreciate the principles of the round sky and square earth found in classical Chinese culture. Observing the various layouts, every door and window in the bedrooms, as well as every table and chair in the living room, are arranged in a manner that adheres to both feng shui and climatology. In summer, the design perfectly captures the gentle afternoon breeze, while in winter, it effectively shields against the biting northern wind. The air circulates freely, and every aspect reflects the designer's unique ingenuity

"Nongnong is here to find your father." Du Ruo quickly stepped out to smooth things over

"Who said that? I'm getting old, getting old." However, compliments have always been the best social language. Du Ruo's face was filled with smiles, especially since she felt a deep sense of guilt towards Wu Nongnong for her son's actions. "But you are still so beautiful and lovely; being young is truly wonderful."

The fog was thick and dense, leaving one speechless. It was unexpected that Ning Mo had such an elegant hobby. However, since it belonged to Ning Mo, Wu Nong Nong immediately retracted her interest.

"Uh, when are you coming back? I heard you went to the United States." Mrs. Ning was clearly aware of her previous rudeness.