Hearing Fang Qinglan occasionally giving Ai Wenli pointers on what to do, Wu Xiaowen took in the scene. Ai Wenli was plump and round, but she was quick on her feet, flitting about like a chubby butterfly, first east, then west. She always had a simple, cheerful smile on her face, like a good-natured country girl. Wu Xiaowen shot her a disdainful glance, but her eyes couldn't help but betray a hint of something close to jealousy. 'The old hag never spoke to me in such a kind and gentle tone, nor did she ever give me pointers on anything. We're both daughters-in-law of the Tang family. I was the first one, and I gave the Tang family two heirs. It's one thing not to treat us equally, but on what grounds is this newcomer the one who gets all the attention and affection?'
