After the carefully prepared lunch Li Xiu had made, the couple took a short nap. They showered and changed, and Zhou Lian was eager for a stroll in the garden. The sun was still harsh, but Li Xiu couldn't bear to refuse her. He grabbed a parasol, took her hand, and led her through the front courtyard into the garden.
Two gardeners had been hired to tend to the garden. When they saw the couple arrive for a stroll, they hurried over to greet them. Li Xiu paid them well and wasn't the type to throw his weight around—he was just a bit strict with his requirements. The two gardeners were very satisfied with their jobs and took great care of the garden, keeping it in perfect order. Even the old masters and madams from the Imperial Palace were full of praise for it.
