《Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman》


 Chapter 1: Reborn on a Sedan Chair

    <h4>Chapter 1: Reborn on a Sedan Chair</h4>


    The sedan shook rhythmically and gently from side to side. The joyous cheers could be heard to wee the sedan. The members apanying the sedan to the bridegroom¡¯s family were lively as ever and the bridesmaid¡¯s sentences sounded like a smooth-flowing water, auspicious to the ears. Sang Wan gently lifted the red veil on her head and her eyes gazed at the bright red surroundings. She reaffirmed that she was definitely sitting in a red sedan chair.


    Gently raising both her hands, she observed that her hands were delicate and white in color; the nails were polished; fingers were long and slender; and her palms were small and delicate... This is definitely a pair of healthy and flexible hands. These were indeed hands that she once had.


    She was born again.


    The panic she received from the beginning gradually receded and she fully epted the fact that she was born again.


    Reborn, from the withered and desperate life she experienced, to the beginning? Sang Wan could not help but shiver from the thought of it as her nails subconsciously dug into the icy palms of her hands.


    ¡°No! I don¡¯t want to!¡± The darkness and desperation where life is equal to death. Never did she want to experience it again.


    Sang Wan clenched her hands tightly to hold back the impulse of lifting the sedan curtain.


    She knew that outside the thin sedan curtain, there is a handsome man clothed in red clothes and a red silk flower as he rode a horse with his head held high. That man is her husband and the husband she lived with for four years in the past. The man is the eldest son of Shi family, Qingzhou¡¯s wealthiest family.


    Thinking about her husband, Sang Wan¡¯s heart became even colder. A sense of indescribable sadness gradually spread from the bottom of her heart. That sense of sadness grabbed her attention tightly which made her gasp for air.


    The sedan she is in now is not a sedan that is bringing her to a beautiful and sweet Shi family, but to meet her future battles where she would have to fight to preserve her little foothold within the family.


    Her father and mother died prematurely. As the name of her family continues to deteriorate, she married Qingzhou¡¯s wealthiest person. The feelings she had in the past when she got married to her husband was not only anticipation, but tension and apprehension.


    She was afraid. Really afraid. Afraid that her Mother-inw and Sister-inws will look down on her; afraid that the servants of the Shi family would despise her; afraid of the cruel world she had never seen before; afraid...


    Not knowing the future which lies ahead of her, she was afraid of everything she would have to face.


    The only one who can ease all these problems was her husband. If he had respected her and protected her, then maybe her life ahead in the family could have been a bit better. For her, he is like her life-saving straw; her one and only support.


    However, reality is just that cruel...


    That man has a childhood sweetheart, his cousin. After living with her husband for less than two months, he made his cousin Gu Fangzi into his concubine! After that, whatever she feared started to turn into reality. Her Mother-inw started to dislike her; her husband started to treat her coldly; her servants started to despise her; and rumors about her being an outcast within the family also started to spread.


    She gradually became invisible in the family and was forgotten about. As days went by, her heart slowly withered and her will to live vanished.


    It is even more painful than any torture in the world; enough to make a living man insane. She did not want to be like that, but no one gave her a chance to not be.


    No one!


    Sang Wan¡¯s mouth gently brought up a smile. Her previous self was insensible, distressed, and doubtless. Recalling those fragments of her past memories, she was shocked and surprised; ¡°that woman, Gu Fangzi, openly disyed her friendliness to me, but behind my back, she prevented me from bonding with my husband and his family. Worst of all, she influenced them to turn against me...¡±


    That sweet smile; that cordialughter; that friendly attitude... how could it all be false? Why must it all be false?


    ¡°She was loving, lively and trustworthy with no room to doubt her, thus I fully epted her. The result? My downfall, unhappiness, and lifeless life!¡±


    ¡°Bride off the sedan -¡±


    The bridesmaid shouted loudly with a festive smile on her face which interrupted Sang Wan¡¯s thoughts. Outside, the drums became more high-pitched, and the crowd¡¯sughter and frolic became livelier.


    This may seem like a good day; an auspicious day.


    Once again! Once again she shall have to step into the Shi family as a bride...


    Sang Wan¡¯s brain went into a dizzy trance. Her heart started beating nervously which felt as if it could jump out of her throat at any moment. Taking in a deep breath, she calmed her nervous heart. Gently stretching out her slender hand, she reached out for the bridesmaid¡¯s hand and exited the sedan.


    She did not have a choice!


    Knowing full well the path ahead will only be full of difficulties, she can only continue to move forward.


    Fortunately, everything is just the beginning... everything... there is room for change! Since God has given another chance to relive the tragic life once again, she will not let this opportunity slide!


    Reborn into this moment must have been God¡¯s will; both apensation and a challenge!


    Countless voices could be heard; just like during her past life. Sang Wan felt vexed. Like a doll under the mercy of its maker, she had to obediently follow orders until she was in the bridal chamber. Sitting in the chamber was a beautifullyid out bed with a gold paintedndscape on it.


    The noisy hustle and bustle of the world outside had finally quieten down, but Sang Wan¡¯s heart couldn¡¯t help but skip a beat; the further one tries to escape from reality, the more nervous one will be.


    Recognizing reality and epting reality is one thing. Integrating them into reality is another matter. Her husband, someone she knows well yet is unknown... that man that is unknown yet she knows him very well, how would she be able to get along with him?


    Sang Wan felt a headache.


    The heavy cor became heavier and heavier on her neck. It felt like her neck could snap at any moment.


    Sang Wan took in a few deep breath and slowly lifted up her veil. She then carefully took the cor off her neck and ced it on an embroidered cross-necked mandarin duck. The red silk veil was then used to cover the duck.


    ¡°Miss. Miss. No... you can¡¯t do that. This is against the custom. It is best to put the cor back on your neck.¡± The dowry maidservant, Liu Ya, stammered when she saw Sang Wan and was shocked by her actions.


    The Shi family¡¯s eldest son holding avish wedding has made Liu Ya stressed for half the day which made her dizzy and clumsy. Upon seeing the Miss of the Shi family lifting her veil inside the chamber made Liu Ya startled.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? No one else will know. My neck feels sore, as if it is going to break. I¡¯ll rest a while before putting it back on my neck. Rest assure.¡± Sang Wan twisted her neck and sure enough, it felt a lot better. She couldn¡¯t help but heave a sigh of relief.


    ¡°But...but this... this is ominous!¡±


    ¡°No matter.¡± Ominous? In the past, she would follow the custom stiffly. Even when she had to sit for half a day, she wouldn¡¯t dare to move a finger. And the result? Was it auspicious? No matter how ominous it may be, nothing can be as ominous as what she experienced in her past life.


    ¡°But... this... is against the custom. The Shi family will be aughing matter...¡±


    ¡°Only I, you and heaven knows. As long as word is not leaked, who else will know?¡± Sang Wan winked and hooked a smile.


    ¡°Miss, how could you...¡± Growing up in the countryside, the rules are not very strict. Seeing Sang Wan sox, she couldn¡¯t help but return a grin and her nervousness calmed down a little.


    ¡°Tired today? Hungry?¡± Sang Wan asked with a smile.


    Liu Ya quickly nodded but shook after. ¡°Oh right, I almost forgot.¡± She took out a pink napkin from her blouse. Wrapped inside the napkin were two cakes. Liu Ya held the cakes to Sang Wan and said, ¡°Miss, when heading here, a grandmother handed me these and said that you can eat these if you are hungry. Servant Liu Ya almost forgot.¡±


    The grandmother Liu Ya mentioned is Sang Wan¡¯s elder brother¡¯s spouse.


    ¡°So thoughtful of her!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s nose twitched. In her previous life, because of her ignorance, she brought her elder brother and his spouse to the Shi house as guests which brought about great grievance. Seeing the luxurious treatment Sang Wan received within the Shi family, her elder brother¡¯s spouseined and then broke all ties with him and their daughter in pursue of finding a better husband who can bring about the same luxurious treatment Sang Wan received within the Shi family. From that day onwards, Sang Wan¡¯s elder brother¡¯s spouse was never heard of again. But because of that incident, Sang Wan became theughing stock of the family. Her mother-inw and husband were also displeased about the incident.


    ¡°That is true. The grandmother treats Miss very good. She may have a sharp tongue, but she means well.¡± Liu Yan stared at the cake as Sang Wan took them from her hands and started to imagine herself taking a bite from the cake.


    Being kind-hearted, Sang Wan took a piece of cake and handed the other cake to Liu Ya. ¡°Here, let us each enjoy a cake.¡±


    ¡°Ay! Thank you, Miss!¡± Liu Ya received the cake gleefully and opened her mouth to eat the cake.


    ¡°Miss,¡± Liu Ya stopped suddenly, looked at Sang Wan, andughed, ¡°This family is so rich. I¡¯m sure there¡¯ll be a lot of nice food. Miss sure is blessed! Servant Liu Yan will follow Miss and maybe receive a little of the blessing.¡±


    Liu Ya¡¯s lively eyes shone vibrantly, and her pretty oval-shaped face looked both innocent and craving. Her face also carried a smile she had previously.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart sank but she could not tell the truth to Liu Ya.


    ¡°Liu Ya,¡± Sang Wan contemted but continued, ¡°We both grew up in the same environment so I shall see you as my younger sister, and thus I¡¯ll tell you about some information. This Miss in front of you is not from a wealthy origin but is now married into the Shi family. With my husband being the eldest son of the Shi family, I¡¯m afraid the life we¡¯ll be experiencing will not be as easy as you think.¡±


    ¡°How can that be?¡± Liu Ya was startled, ¡°You are now the spouse of the eldest son, and your marriage was arranged by both parents and a matchmaker!¡±


    ¡°That is why the life we¡¯ll be experiencing in the future will not be as easy as you think!¡± Sang Wan exined, more precisely this time. ¡°The Sang family is now in a state where it cannot even bepared with a Shi family¡¯s decent servant¡¯s family background. Think about it... by iming this high position, people will not be convinced that I am suitable for this position. If so, what can I do to prove that I am suitable?¡±


    Liu Ya remained startled and stared at Sang Wan foolishly. She reluctantly smiled and shook her head, ¡°Servant...Servant Liu Ya still couldn¡¯t understand.¡±


    Sang Wan smiled bitterly. Liu Ya¡¯s rural life is simple. Her not understanding is not a surprise.


    ¡°That¡¯s alright. Liu Ya, listen to only me. In this house, do not do more than you are told to do so; do not utter a single word. Understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Understood! I just have to listen to Miss!¡± Liu Ya heaved a sigh of relief and smiled. Thus a rtionship between them formed.


    It was getting dark already. Sang Wan had once again ced the cor on her neck and covered her face with the veil. Hearing the heavy footsteps apanied by the pleasant jokes approach gradually, Sang Wan clenched her fist, and her body became very tensed.

 Chapter 2: Confession in the Bridal Chamber

    <h4>Chapter 2: Confession in the Bridal Chamber</h4>


    Part 1


    ¡°Si ya¡±, the door was gently pushed open from the outside. The bridesmaid was the first to enter the chamber. She giggled as she rap which sounded very much like a stream of flowing water. Following behind the bridesmaid were the bridegroom and the servants.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. The rest of you may leave.¡± Shi Fengju interrupted the bridesmaid suddenly. This caused the heartwarming auspicious words to stop abruptly.


    Sang Wan remained motionless, but her eyes behind the veil blinked a few times. His voice is still as smooth as ever, yet dull to the extreme. She could even imagine his facial expression when he spoke; his face and his expression must have been even duller.


    ¡°Uh. Yes...¡± The bridesmaid is Qingzhou city¡¯s most famous Zhang matchmaker. She has seen all the different kinds of rtionships between males and females from viges all around the city; no rtionships around the city can escape her ears. Even the sexual gratification between Sang Wan¡¯s husband and his cousin, Gu Fangzi, is not news to her.


    If only her father did not arrange this wedding when he was still alive... If only canceling the marriage between her and the Shi family¡¯s eldest son was simple... She wouldn¡¯t have to be in the position she currently is in.


    However, it seems that even though Miss Sang was able to be part of the Shi family and also take the position as Shi Fengju¡¯s wife, the position may not seem as secured as one may think.


    The bridesmaid gave a wink and pouted a few times to signal to the servants. Together with Liu Ya and the rest of the servants, the bridesmaid left the chamber.


    The door was closed gently and the huge room fell into silence. The atmosphere within the room was a little depressing.


    Living in an environment where the world revolves around him, Shi Fengju¡¯s already depressed feeling became even more depressed. The color red was supposed to be bright and warm, yet it somehow brought to him a deeper sense of depression.


    True enough, a person¡¯s state of mind brings about the difference in one¡¯s perception.


    His gaze swept over the big red Double Happiness word ¡®‡Ö¡¯ (TLN: ‡Ömeans joy) that was scattered with gold powder, and the dragon and phoenix wedding candle that was lit beforehand. His eyes suddenly darkened and he entered a trance.


    Let¡¯s get this over and done with! Shi Fengju sighed secretly to dissipate all the unpleasant emotions within him. ¡°Since I agreed to marry Miss Sang into my family, as long as she is not someone who is untrustworthy, she will remain as my official wife! My dear cousin, Fang¡¯er, she said she¡¯ll understand me... She¡¯ll definitely understand... I¡¯ll not disappoint you my Fang¡¯er.¡±


    Shi Fengju subconsciously rubbed his fist together as he steadily approached the bride. He pinched the two edge of the veil with his two hands and slowly lifted it up, revealing the cor. The jade pearls on the cor shook a little as the woman wearing the cor gently raised her head.


    A pair of crystal clear eyes stared deeply into his eyes.


    Such crystal clear eyes! Such magnificence! The gentle blinking of the eyshes made her eyes looked even more magnificent!


    Shi Fengju was taken aback.


    In a brief moment, his eyes returned back to its usual calm state. Sang Wan observed him, as he remained silent and turned to the table beside him to pour two small cups of wine meant to perform the cross-cupped wine rite. He handed a cup to Sang Wan and held the other in his own hand.


    ¡°After drinking finish the cup of wine, the rite isplete. It is veryte now; let¡¯s call it a day.¡± Shi Fengju said calmly. After saying it, he tilted his neck slowly upwards and finished the wine in his cup.


    Sang Wan stared at him and could not help but wonder if it was magic. Just like in her past life, he would drink from the cup without performing the cross-cupped wine rite, and then...


    Had he never thought she would be hungry for not eating much today?


    Of course, that thought surfaced in Sang Wan¡¯s mind not because she wanted to do the cross-cupped wine rite, but because she felt the injustice and grievance as a bride.


    ¡°Are you... not drinking it?¡± Shi Fengju ced his empty cup on the table, before turning around and walking towards Sang Wan to engage in activities that married couples usually do, only to see her hand still holding a cup full of wine. Deep inside, he started to feel impatient, thus he couldn¡¯t help but knit his eyebrows.


    What is she doing?


    Sang Wan nced at Shi Fengju, then simply ced the cup of wine gently beside her.


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Fengju received a shock and questioned her coldly, ¡°what is the meaning of this?¡±


    Sang Wan stood up. She folded her sleeves and genuflect (TLN: genuflect means to lower one¡¯s body briefly to show respect) before lifting up her head to gaze directly at Shi Fengju. She directly went to the point, ¡°Sir, you have someone you like. The person whom you want to marry is not me but someone else, am I right?¡±


    Shi Fengju did not expect her to say that. It was all too sudden! His first thing that came to his mind was whether he heard her wrongly. His business personality helped kept him calm. Recovering from the shock, he asked softly, ¡°What exactly is it that you would like to tell me?¡±


    Sang Wan lowered her head slightly, exposing her slender white neck before looking at him again and said, ¡°Sir, youplied with the marriage and saved the Sang family¡¯s reputation. Sang Wan is very grateful. However, Sir has already given his heart to someone else, thus Sang Wan does not want to steal you away from her. Why don¡¯t we be a false couple? What do you think?¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but be visibly moved, and he heaved a sigh of relief as the burden on his shoulder was finally lifted. His eyes shed, unlike the lifeless eyes he had just then. Be a false couple? She had the nerve to think of such a thing, what¡¯s more say it out!


    Seeing Shi Fengju remain silent, she continued, ¡°After around a year or so, we can divorce and you can then marry the woman in your heart since the two of us are ipatible. How about it?¡±


    Shi Fengju continued to remain silent, which made her feel a little uneasy. He not loving her is a matter on its own, but her initiating the divorce is another. Being a man as handsome as him with such a wealthy background, he is the perfect husband many women yearn for... yet thisdy in front of him told him upfront that she wanted to divorce. Shi Fengju felt a little offended.


    He could not help but scrutinize the woman in front of him. Gentle facial features with five healthy senses (TLN: the ears, eyes, lips, nose and tongue), fair skin,rge and bright eyes. The eyes...crystal clear which made it particrly noticeable. The woman in front of him looked calm and indifferent, neither servile nor overbearing. Those two points alone made him impressed.


    However, those were also the points that made him feel a little offended.


    Part 2


    ¡°Why? Can¡¯t wait to leave the Shi family? Is there someone else waiting for you?¡± Shi Fengju blurted out on impulse.


    This time, it was Sang Wan¡¯s turn to feel offended. If his words got out and spread across the city, her own family name would have been ruined. She would be too embarrassed to meet people!


    ¡°If that were the case, would I still have married into the Shi family?¡± Sang Wan scorned while trying to contain the anger within her heart. If what he said were true and the Shi family still let her marry into their family, the family sure is airy!


    Actually, Shi Fengju regretted deeply when those words left his mouth as he spoke. He knows that those words were actually meant for himself but he ended up venting his frustration on her. If Sang Wan is prone to indiscretion, his family would have known...no... he himself would have known!


    ¡°My apologies. I said that without thinking and offended you.¡± Shi Fengju bowed to show his sincerity as he apologized to Sang Wan. Shi Fengju has always been a gentleman, thus, apologizing when one is wrong isn¡¯t a difficult task to him.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. Those words were unintentional.¡± Sang Wan said softly and returned a curtsy. Arguing to identify who is at fault in this conversation would have been a stupid idea anyway.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do as you said. After a year or so, we¡¯ll divorce.¡± Shi Fengju agreed.


    ¡°It is not like the Shi family forced me to get married into their family; just an agreement between both families. A recently married couple getting divorce is unheard of. After a year or so,e out with a reasonable reason and get divorce, and we¡¯ll both be happy... after a year or so... ¡±


    ¡°Be at ease. The Shi family will not ill-treat you. I¡¯ll ensure that you livefortably with food and necessities avable whenever you need them for the rest of your life.¡± Shi Fengju generously added. The Shi family is very wealthy. Giving her this generous reward foring out with such a brilliant idea isn¡¯t too much of a problem. If she ever wants to get married in the future, having such arge dowry can also help to increase her chances.


    ¡°Thank you very much for your generosity, Young Master Shi.¡± Sang Wan once again bowed, and thanked Shi Fengju sincerely. Since Shi Fengju said that he¡¯ll give a dowry, it¡¯ll definitely be arge sum. With that sum of money, the path ahead is safeguarded.


    ¡°Let me conclude what we just discussed. In theing year, the secret of us being a false couple will only be known between us, alright?¡± Sang Wan gazed at Shi Fengju, expecting an answer.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Shi Fengju nodded. If word got out, not only will Sang Wan¡¯s reputation be tarnished, even his will too! Of course no one else can know the secret.


    ¡°Do you have anything else to add on?¡± He asked Sang Wan when he saw that she had something to say but was very hesitant.


    Walking back and forth, Sang Wan finally answered, ¡°Well, I do have a presumptuous request. It is about Miss Gu... Even though we¡¯ll be spending around a year together before we divorce, I do hope you¡¯ll wait till I leave before marrying Miss Gu.¡±


    Shi Fengju was taken aback and stared at San Wang nkly.


    Sang Wan herself was also taken aback, and her face turned red with embarrassment. ¡°Why did I say that?¡± Sang Wan thought to her inner self. Putting on a silly smile on her face apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m so sorry. I¡¯m such a muddle head for saying such a thing.¡±


    The reason she blurted about Miss Gu was because of her experience in the past life. Firstly, if she were to marry into the Shi family, what would her ¡°current wife¡± status be? Secondly, she didn¡¯t want to have any further contact with Miss Gu. Therefore, it would be best if Miss Gu only marries into the Shi family after she left.


    The Shi Fengju currently was thinking about something else even more intensely. ¡°Since Sang Wan already stated that she¡¯ll divorce with me after a year, of course I¡¯ll have to wait till we get divorced before I can marry Gu Fangzi! How can I let my sweetheart be a concubine? Just a year...I can wait for that long.¡±


    Seeing that Sang Wan was very embarrassed, he questioned her no further but stared at her suspiciously for a moment.


    The problem with regards to his marriage has finally concluded. The burden on his shoulder was finally lifted and he couldn¡¯t help but feel a lot more rxed. Drowsy, he covered his mouth as he yawned. ¡°The day is not young anymore. Let¡¯s call it a day. You sleep here on the bed and I¡¯ll sleep on the floor.¡±


    After saying that, he took a nket from the cab.


    Finally a little conscience disyed by him for not letting her sleep on the floor. However...


    Sang Wan rubbed her stomach. She was extremely hungry.


    ¡°Sir, please rest first. My stomach is really hungry so I¡¯ll go out and grab a bite.¡±


    His whole bodyy on the floor stiffly, and his mouth moved awkwardly, ¡°Sure. Do as you please.¡± Even though he is a conscience person, but did not bother thinking why she was hungry at such an hour.


    At the same time, Sang Wan thought to herself, ¡°Why was I so na?ve to have suffered because of him in the past?¡±

 Chapter 3: Offering Tea

    <h4>Chapter 3: Offering Tea</h4>


    Part 1


    Early in the next morning, Sang Wan was awakened by Shi Fengju¡¯s nudge.


    She really can¡¯t be med for being ate riser. In the past, she was forgotten by the Shi family; her mother-inw disliked her, thus she could only watch the family at the sideline. And because of that, she lost her sense of time due to only sleeping, eating, daydreaming and stifling.


    ¡°Well?¡± Sang Wan rubbed her sleepy eyes before looking at Shi Fengju. The nket was shifted and warmth from under the nket escaped, touching her skin as it rose and bringing a light delicate fragrance with it.


    ¡°Get up quickly. The maidservants will being in anytime soon!¡± Shi Fengju, feeling impatient, stared at Sang Wan with discontent. As he stared at Sang Wan¡¯s innocent-looking face, his heart couldn¡¯t help but sway a little.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Sang Wan hastily crawled out of bed and pulled a white veil which she discarded away previously. She cried helplessly, ¡°This... this... what should we do?¡±


    Awkwardly, Shi Fengju rubbed his nose. Biting the bullet, he turned without saying a word and took a sharp ruby-decorated hairpin from the dressing table. He then cut his middle finger shallowly and let his fresh thick blood drip onto the veil. After a short moment, the white veil was dotted with distinct red colors on the white background which made it stunning.


    ¡°Enough! Enough!¡± Seeing him stupidly drip his fresh blood on the veil, she hurriedly grabbed it from him. ¡°The veil may not be red, but killing a chicken should do the trick! What is he thinking, trying to dye the veil with his own blood?¡±


    Shi Fengju suddenly felt embarrassed and looked away from her as he waited for her to ridicule him for what he had just done. ¡°This is so awkward...really awkward...¡±


    ¡°You, get changed quickly. We¡¯ve to offer tea to my mother, uncles, and auntiester to show our respect!¡± Shi Fengju coughed as he attempted to divert the awkwardness elsewhere. He seeded, but not through his effort; just when the sentence sank into Sang Wan¡¯s head, door knocks from outside the chamber could be heard.


    ¡°Sir, Ma¡¯am!¡±


    The two of them couldn¡¯t help but heave a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Sang Wan nced at Shi Fengju before replying.


    The maidservants entered slowly and upon seeing the both of them, they bowed. Each of the maidservant took on a task; dressing, holding onto a towel, polishing jewelry, and many others. With all the maidservants busy, only Liu Ya was left standing, clueless of what she had to do.


    Two graceful senior maidservants stepped forward and took the blood-stained veil from the young couple, only to notice the couple staring intensely and nervously at each other. The senior maidservants concluded that there was a secret between the couple, and giggled. The two senior maidservants then kneeled on the floor and congratte the young couple. Taking the signal, the other maidservants within the room stopped doing their tasks and bowed in front of the couple to congratte them. Awkwardly, Shi Fengju returned a smile back to the maidservants. Stealing a nce at Sang Wan who was also putting on an awkward smile, Shi Fengju helpless gave a ¡°ÉÍ!¡± (TLN: ÉÍ means reward), and the maidservants cheered with joy.


    After grooming, the couple prepared to meet the elders in the courtyard to offer them tea as a sign of filial piety.


    ¡°To meet again!¡± A face emerged within her mind; a kind and amiable round face, long and narrow eyes, thin and pursed-up lips.


    There¡¯s also second Uncle Shi Guangyao, second Aunt Mi Shi, many younger brothers and sisters, and also the cousin, Gu Fangzi!


    Walking through the zigzagged corridor towards the courtyard, Sang Wan was in a trance. Slight images of her surroundings as she walked through the corridor shed in her head as if she had walked through this corridor before. The scene in front of her... she was used to it as the wife of the eldest son in her past life. Due to living in the house for too long with less exposure to the surroundings outside, except for a small courtyard, she was practically unfamiliar with the other corners within the property. She really did not recognize them... maybe just a slight impression of the house...


    In the courtyard, Mother Wang Shi, second uncle and aunt were already settled, with several young sirs and misses at the back. There were several maidservants around, and the dull building was filled with brightly colored decorations. Most of the important family members had all arrived; including Gu Fangzi.


    Going inside, Sang Wang subconsciously looked towards Gu Fangzi who was behind Mother Wang Shi and serving her. The pretty red begonia skirt with eight pictures of clivias made her silk-like skin even more eye-catching. Her facial features are perfect, eyebrows long and thin. Graceful and beautiful, making it easy for her to give a good impression to others.


    Coincidentally, Gu Fangzi was also looking at the direction where Sang Wan is, and their eyes met. Their line of sight connected. Gu Fangzi gave a smile, exposing her dimples. With her bright eyes and smile, Sang Wan without a choice nodded and return a smile.


    Sang Wan shuddered immediately and quickly drooped her eyelids. In the past, Gu Fangzi used that friendly smile to instill anxiety into her. However, at the moment, what Sang Wan felt were not only anxiety but also chills.


    ¡°Mother! Second uncle and aunt!¡± Shi Fengju bowed and greeted them. Sang Wan, with both hands in front of her, stood gracefully beside Shi Fengju.


    ¡°You¡¯re both here!¡± Mother Wang Shi smiled kindly, and at the same time asked a few questions. Second Uncle Shi and Second Aunt Mi Shi also returned a smile back to the couple. After that, Aunt Mi Shi nced at Sang Wan for a bit and smiled again, ¡°that¡¯s enough. Please begin!¡±


    A few of the maidservantsy an embroidered mat in front of Aunt Mi Shi. Another maidservant carrying a tray came forward. On the tray stood a tea cup with the word ¡®‡Ö¡¯painted on it. The steam could be seen as it rose and the light tea fragrance diffused.


    Sang Wan¡¯s clutched her hands together tightly. She walked stiffly towards the maidservant who was holding the tray. ncing into the tea within the teacup, her heart turned cold suddenly.


    This is exactly the same as what happened in her past life!


    Part 2


    The yellowish green tea... the closer one is to the tea, the more pleasant the tea¡¯s aroma is. One look and one could tell the tea¡¯s quality is one of the finest. However, within the tea floats a single long strain of hair. In the past, she dared not look into the tea as she was already nervous enough. Thus, without checking the tea, she carried it to Mother Wang Shi and offered it. Thus resulted in Mother Wang Shi¡¯s displeasure. Even though Mother Wang Shi did not verbally berate her, her face showed otherwise with her brows furrowed up. Gu Fangzi then stepped up to resolve the incident with a big grin on her face.


    The hair may not have been her doing, but to offer the tea without checking it made the impression of her being crude and careless. In the heart of the audience, she was seen as someone who was disrespectful towards the elders. As a result, how would Mother Wang Shi not dislike her? How would she even be fit to be Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter-inw?


    Because of the incident, her mother-inw and husband were both not fond of her. The family¡¯s maidservants also secretly contempt her. She was, however, thankful towards Gu Fangzi for standing up for her.


    ¡°Ke,¡± Seeing her staring into space, Shi Fengju coughed a little to remind her that the ceremony is still in progress.


    Back to reality, Sang Wan chuckled apologetically and reached for the cup. However, upon touching the cup, she immediately backed away.


    ¡°This tea seemed cold. Drinking cold tea in the morning isn¡¯t good for the body. It would be good to have a change of cup.¡± Sang Wan gazed gently at Mother Wang Shi and smiled while requesting a change of cup.


    She recently only got married into the family, yet so finicky. Of course Mother Wang Shi will not publicly berate Sang Wan, but seeing her so caring towards her aging body, Mother Wang Shi felt pleased. Even though the act of offering tea may only be a ceremony to show respect, having a caring daughter-inw is definitely great!


    Mother Wang Shi smiled and signaled to the maidservant.


    The maidservant bowed and stepped back with the cold tea. Another maidservant stepped forward with a freshly brewed cup of tea.


    Sang Wan, using both her hands, reached for the cup and kneeled down in front of Mother Wang Shi before raising the cup above her head. ¡°Mother, please drink this cup of tea!¡±


    ¡°Good. Good!¡± Mother Wang Shi smiled and leaned forward to receive the cup. She sipped the tea twice before handing arge redcquer box to Sang Wan, ¡°From today onwards, you are part of the family. You are a girl born in a literary family. You are knowledgeable and have good values within you. In the future, live a blissful life and bare the heir of Shi family!¡±


    ¡°... Yes, Mother-inw! Your kind words, you daughter-inw will remember them.¡± Sang Wan immediately agreed politely and did a kowtow before standing up.


    ¡°Good. Good!¡± Having apliant daughter-inw made Mother Wang Shi happier than before.


    With nothing major happening during the ceremony with her mother-inw, Sang Wan heaved a sigh of relief. Next, she offered tea to Second Uncle and Second Aunt.


    In her past life, she was afraid of losing her etiquette and ended up replying, ¡°Your daughter-inw is from a well-educated family, thus is both polite and selfless. That is a given!¡± Seeing her mother-inw confused and cold facial expression, she wished she could take back those words she blurted out.


    Literary family! Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly. The word ¡®literary¡¯ ismonly used to describe the rich, elegant and noble families; hearing such praise would certainly awe its listeners. However, using the word to describe the family of schrs in their current financial state is rather ironic!


    The Shi family¡¯s esteemed father used to fancy her father¡¯s knowledge, thus her marriage with Shi Fengju was arranged. However, her father¡¯s vast knowledge did not help him pass the imperial examinations; a worthless schr nevertheless.


    This eventually led to her father¡¯s death.


    With much of the family¡¯s fortune spent on the imperial examinations in hopes that her father could pass, the Sang family thus ended up in a bad financial state.


    Today, her two older brothers ended up as schrs. Sang Wan did not dare to think about what is toe in the future.


    Second Uncle Shi is obsessed with goldfish, parrots, thrush, oriole and many other birds. Every day without fail, he would care for his precious creatures like how one would care for their ancestors. Although at this point, he is sitting in the courtyard while his nephew¡¯s wife kowtow to him, deep inside he would rather feed the fish, change the water and bath the birds, thus he did not pay any heed to Sang Wan. After receiving the cup of tea, Second Uncle Shi ¡°Eh!¡± twice, drank it and gave the red packet.


    Feeling restless, Second Uncle Shi signaled to Mi Shi be a little quicker when it was her turn.


    When it was Mi Shi¡¯s turn, she received the cup and took a sip before using a napkin to wipe her lips. Taking a glimpse at Gu Fangzi, she smiled and her attention returned to Sang Wan, ¡°Such a talented wife! Elder sister, one look and I can tell that she is intelligent and beautiful within, clever and quick-witted. It really makes me envious. Elder sister, you sure are lucky! And to my nephew¡¯s wife, you are a well-educateddy and fast learner. I hope that you would help shoulder the family burden together with your mother-inw and husband. I¡¯m sure Miss Gu can now step back into the sidelines. I mean, shouldn¡¯t that be the case? Miss Gu may be capable, but in the end, she is still an outsider! Even though we may have lived in the same house for quite a long while, guests are still guests!¡±


    After saying that, Mi Shi giggled and her gaze carelessly swept past Shi Fengju and Gu Fangzi. Sang Wan saw it as if Mi Shi was connecting Shi Fengju and Gu Fangzi with an invisible string.

 Chapter 4: Generous, Nevertheless

    <h4>Chapter 4: Generous, Nevertheless</h4>


    Part 1


    Immediately after hearing what Mi Shi said, Wang Shi looked at Sang Wan only to see a nk expression. Keeping a smile on her face, Wang Shi managed to remain modest. However, her face no doubt showed otherwise. Without thinking too excessively, Wang Shi remained calm and modest as she exhaled softly before ring at Mi Shi. Having in mind to give Mi Shi a scolding or two afterward, Wang Shi rolled her eyes.


    Being a person who dislikes bickering with others, Wang Shi held back her anger and it slowly seeped back into her heart. With that, Wang Shi snorted.


    Gu Fangzi gave a hoarseugh and said with a smile, ¡°my new cousin-inw may be good, however, Aunt Mi Shi shouldn¡¯t have to be so envious of Aunt Wang Shi! Your good fortune isn¡¯t small, otherwise, your son wouldn¡¯t have married such a good wife either!¡±


    The son Gu Fangzi was referring to was Second Uncle Shi and Mi Shi¡¯s second son, Shi Fengming. Two years ago, Shi Fengming was obsessed with the most popr girl working in a tavern, Su Qing¡¯er, and insisted on marrying her! Such disastrous event enraged both Second Uncle Shi and Mi Shi, resulting in an unpleasant family argument between parent and son.


    Mi Shi concluded that her son must have been deceived by the female fox demon. To make him forget about the tavern girl, Mi Shi believed that having him marry someone else would do the trick. Thus, without her son¡¯s consent, she hastily arranged an engagement for him, resulting in her second son to get married first instead of her first son.


    Surprisingly, the second son did not falter but begun to aggressively disy his love for Su Qing¡¯er. In the end, Mi Shi had to threaten Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s life to force Shi Fengming into entering the bridal chamber. However, not long after Shi Fengming entered the chamber, he seized the chance to escape with money and eloped with the beautiful tavern girl; leaving his newlywed wife, Zhou Jingyi, and never returned.


    That incident scarred Mi Shi¡¯s heart deeply and Gu Fangzi said it with an ill intention.


    Sure enough, Mi Shi¡¯s face immediately turned pale white. She became vexed and her body puffed with anger.


    With wide eyes, Mi Shi red at Gu Fangzi, ¡°What did you just say? I dare you to say it again!¡±


    At that moment, Wang Shi, who was feeling joyous, felt a little sorry for Mi Shi.


    However, for Gu Fangzi to craft such sarcastic sentences to mock Mi Shi, Wang Shi inevitably felt annoyed. Nevertheless, she was more inclined to protecting Gu Fangzi, and said coldly, ¡°What do you mean? Gu Fangzi spoke the truth! Jingyi is a good child and is also a good daughter-inw! You acting the way you are now is a disgrace to the family!¡±


    ¡°Elder sister... how could you! Dear, look ¡ª¡± Mi Shi became vexed and her eyes started to get teary. Words couldn¡¯t leave her mouth as she thought of her son who is still wandering out there.


    Shi Fengju frowned. Never did he think that something so trivial would lead to this! Before he could open his mouth to speak, Gu Fangzi interrupted with a smile on her face, ¡°My bad. Because of my clumsy mouth, the praise turned out to sound so hostile and make Second Aunt so oversensitive. I should receive my punishment. I should really receive my punishment! Second Aunt, I¡¯m really sorry. Do spare me! Not for my sake, but for the joyous ceremony of weing my newlywed cousin-inw into the Shi family! My cousin-inw, don¡¯t you think so?¡± As she said it, Gu Fangzi stole a few nces at Mi Shi.


    Sang Wan remained silent. Gu Fangzi even wanted to drag her into themotion! The question thrown out by Gu Fangzi, how was she supposed to answer that? By agreeing, it would seem as though her position as the wife of the Shi family son is greater than the Shi elders, and that her mother-inw is wrong about her opinion on Jingyi. If she disagreed, she would be bluntly stating that Mi Shi is in the wrong, and again would still result in her going against the elders.


    Neither options would bring about any good to her! Sang Wan smiled bitterly. In the past, she was definitely oblivious, and treated as if Gu Fangzi was a good person! A good person would never have said those words!


    Sang Wan simply hesitated and cowardly looked at Shi Fengju. Being newly wedded into the Shi family and having little knowledge of Shi family¡¯s internal affairs should be enough of a reason for her to ask her husband for help.


    Seeing his wife in distress, Shi Fengju could not stand by and watch. Sighing softly, he said to Mi Shi, ¡°Second Aunt, rest assured that second cousin is fine. I¡¯ll definitely bring him back safely!¡± These words may seem disjoint, however, they were effective in appeasing Mi Shi¡¯s heart.


    ¡°I hope you won¡¯t go back on your words! Fengju ah, Second Aunt will count on you!¡± Not looking at Gu Fangzi, Mi Shi gazed directly at Shi Fengju as tears flowed down her cheeks. Sure enough, everyone that were present in the courtyard had their eyes on Shi Fengju.


    In Second Uncle Shi¡¯s perspective, all he saw was Mi Shi fussing over something very trivial and extending the duration of the ceremony. Already holding half-full of anger within him due to having to attend the ceremony, hearing his useless son being mentioned filled his already-half-full anger to full. Second Uncle Shi gave a soft humph and said, ¡°What¡¯s the point in finding him? Don¡¯t you dare find him! I¡¯d like to see how long he¡¯ll be able to stay away from home. If he has the ability to stay outside for his entire life, I¡¯ll take my hat off! A disloyal and unfilial son I¡¯ve got! I¡¯ve raised my son in vain!¡±


    Part 2


    ¡°How could you say that?¡± Mi Shi trembled with anger, and scolded, ¡°He is also my son! What gives you the right to make me not look for him? Yes, of course you¡¯re not worried; you have another son, of course you¡¯re not worried! I knew how much you resent the both of us, mother and son, you sociopath!¡±


    ¡°Forget it, forget it. What nonsense are you spouting? What¡¯s more, in front of so many people! You and I have nothing more to discuss and that¡¯s final!¡± Second Uncle Shi quickly got up and mouthed a word ¡°disgraceful¡±, before giving Wang Shi a greeting. With that, he left.


    Angry, Mi Shi gave a few loud shrieks as she tried to distinguish who was right in the heated argument a moment ago. Ashamed when she looked around, Mi Shi angrily stomped off in the direction where Second Uncle Shi headed, leaving the people in the courtyard speechless.


    ¡°Well, that is it for today. The rest of you may leave. My son, please escort your wife back to her chamber. And Sang Wan, my daughter-inw, yesterday must have been a tiring day for you. Do go back and have a good rest. When dinner is ready, I¡¯ll have a maidservant call for the both of you.¡± Wang Shi massaged her tired shoulders as she said to the both of them.


    ¡°Yes, mother!¡± Sang Wan curtsied as she replied, before gazing at Shi Fengju eagerly. In her past life, there was no argument between the two elders. Because of the incident that happened during the ceremony, it resulted in both her mother-inw and her husband¡¯s displeasure. Worse still, right after the ceremony, Shi Fengju excused himself and left, leaving Sang Wan to walk back to her chamber by herself while the maidservants eyed her strangely. Upon reaching the small garden outside her chamber, she hid herself in a secluded area before letting her tears course down her cheeks. However, in this life, everything will be different. She will never allow herself to be in the spot she was in the past, more so to experience it over again.


    That chaotic life; once is enough!


    Shi Fengju subconsciously gazed at Gu Fangzi before quickly retracting his gaze. Nodding, he apanied Sang Wan as she left.


    Upon leaving the courtyard, Shi Fengju slowed down his pace, ¡°I...¡±


    ¡°Sir,¡± without giving him a chance to finish, Sang Wan gently called for him; along with a gaze so weak and pitiful. The meaning behind her unfinished sentence that hung in midair was definitely something that can be easily understood.


    What she wanted was to have him apany her back to her chamber.


    Startled, Shi Fengju without a choice left his unfinished words to disappear. Sighing silently, he said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, I...we, together.¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Wan nodded inpliance. Secretly, she felt relieved. She knew what Shi Fengju wanted to do. When Shi Fengju and Gu Fangzi parted at the courtyard, both their eyes met. The people in the courtyard may not have seen it, but Sang Wan saw it clearly. He must have been very anxious to return to Gu Fangzi¡¯s side to talk to her privately.


    Them being lovey-dovey when no one is around is none of her business, and is of no importance to her. However, it¡¯ll definitely be embarrassing for her if he left her here to meet Gu Fangzi. Worse, her life in this house will be over and it¡¯ll be no different from her past life!


    One by one, the crowd started to leave in the direction of her chamber. Shi Fengju¡¯s pace was rather fast and the sound of his footsteps were rather soft; as if he were flying. His current actions absent-mindedly disyed his anxiety. Sang Wan silently followed closely behind him. Seeing her ¡®husband¡¯ ce so much attention on the woman whom he has given his heart to, Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but wonder how it feels like if she were the one to receive it instead of Gu Fangzi.


    Still,pared to her past life, this was so much better!


    Paranoid after having thought about her past life, the faces of the maidservants suddenly shed a faint sense of ridicule. A shiver ran down her spine.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± She twisted her ankle.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shi Fengju, who was walking a few steps in front of Sang Wan, immediately stopped in his tracks. Seeing Sang Wan on the floor, he immediately extended his hand but the intended recipient did not extend hers. Hesitantly, he ended up having to help her up by her arm. ¡°Have you twisted your ankle?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I didn¡¯t notice a loose pebble on the floor and tripped over it. I¡¯m alright!¡± Sang Wan smiled apologetically.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Help support her!¡± Shi Fengju nodded and retracted his helping hand before yelling at Liu Ya, who was behind Sang Wan.


    ¡°Yes! Sir!¡± Liu Ya immediately stepped forward to support Sang Wan. Sang Wan didn¡¯t me Liu Ya for not taking the initiative. Back at the Sang family house, Sang Wan often had to help with the house chores. Being independent, there was no need to have someone support her as she walked.


    Seeing how protective the young master is to his wife, another maidservant quickly stepped forward to help support Sang Wan. Sang Wan had seen her before. She is Hong Ye, a maidservant who is second-in-charge of the small garden outside her chamber.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s pace was no longer as fast as before. Slowly, he apanied Sang Wan back to her chamber.


    Seeing the newly wedded couple back, the maidservants quickly went to greet them. A cup of warm tea and a change of clothes were already prepared for them.


    Before Shi Fengju could say anything, Sang Wan chuckled, ¡°These two days had really worn me out. I¡¯d like to have some rest. Sir, you¡¯ve matters at hand so please take your leave. I shall familiarize myself with the staff in this household... oh well, meeting with themter shouldn¡¯t be toote I think.¡±


    Rather than having him open his mouth, doing him the favor would definitely save her own face. Anyway, his actions now looked like a cat finding a surface to scratch on; eager to leave the chamber.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s mind was only thinking of Gu Fangzi, and upon hearing those cleverly crafted words from Sang Wan, he nodded and smiled, ¡°Have some rest then, I¡¯ll take my leave first! Have your lunch without me. I¡¯ll see youter before dinner! Li Mama isn¡¯t present, so if you want to familiarize yourself with the staff managing this household, just send someone to call them in for you.¡± With that, Shi Fengju without drinking his tea left in a blink of an eye.


    Seeing that he had left the chamber, Sang Wan¡¯s gaze swept across the interior of the chamber before asking, ¡°Who is the chambers¡¯ housekeeper?¡±


    All the maidservants in the chamber had their heads bowed and there was an awkward moment of silence.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, it is Li Mama.¡± Someone finally answered. Sang Wan nced in the direction where the answer came from. It was Xing Zhide, the eldest among the maidservants in the chamber. She is even-tempered and is practical in the work she does. Most importantly, she has no intention of climbing to a higher position. Sang Wan remembered that in her past life, Zhide seemed to have married to a butler in the Shi family household. Of course, she did not have much interaction with Zhide in her past life. However, that life had given her some useful information about the maidservant. Not only is Zhide even-tempered and practical, she is also a loyal person who will never sell people out. That may be seen as her being indifferent or just to remain safe. However, in this household, knowing when to keep one¡¯s mouth shut is easier said than done. Therefore, whatever her reasons for keeping her mouth shut may be, she can still be considered clever for doing so.

 Chapter 5: Sang Wan’s Teachings

    <h4>Chapter 5: Sang Wan¡¯s Teachings</h4>


    Part 1


    An example would be now. If it were Gu Fangzi asking the questions, the maidservants would have definitely scrambled to answer her questions so as to receive praise. If that were so, Zhide would not attempt to answer as receiving praise was not something she needed. However, the one asking the questions in the chamber wasn¡¯t Gu Fangzi, but Sang Wan, thus no one answered. Being the eldest, Zhide without a choice answered; and her answer was very simple. Who is Li Mama? Where did she go? If Sang Wan did not ask, she had no reason to answer.


    ¡°Li Mama?¡± Sang Wan asked deliberately even though she knew who the housekeeper was. She gently gazed at Zhide, motioning her to answer.


    Again, without a choice, Zhide answered, ¡°Li Mama is Sir¡¯s wet nurse, and has always managed the chambers and everything else within the garden. A few days ago, her lower back and legs felt sore so she went home to recuperate. Thus, I¡¯m afraid she won¡¯t be around for the next few days.¡±


    ¡°I see!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded, before chuckling, ¡°Before Li Mama left to recuperate, did she discuss with Sir who will be in charge of the chambers while she is gone?¡±


    Zhide replied, ¡°That would be me! Maidservant Zhide at your service!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good. May I trouble you?¡± Sang Wan smiled and thought for a while, ¡°I would like to have some rest first. When it is lunchtime, do give me a call. Also, I¡¯d like to see all the staff who manages the small garden after lunch. It isn¡¯t much, really, I just want to have a glimpse of their faces that¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am!¡± Zhide bowed before taking a quick nce at Sang Wan. She was secretly surprised. Never had she imagined that her new Ma¡¯am would be so generous and decent. She may not havee from a wealthy family, but definitely the daughter of a literary family!


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, please have some rest, your humble maidservant will do as instructed.¡± As she thought for a brief moment, Zhide couldn¡¯t help but take the initiative to add an additional sentence, instructing the other maidservants to fetch some water for Sang Wan to wash her face.


    The maidservants are ustomed to serving people and their actions were all systematic. One ced arge napkin on herp; the other folded her sleeves; the third maidservant kneeled and ced a chiseled copper basin in front of her; and the fourth washed her hands at the side, in a basin carried by the fifth maidservant. After washing her hands, she retrieved the soft clean towel soaked in warm water from the chiseled copper basin and gave it a gentle twist before handing it carefully to Sang Wan. Soap, balsam and other facial cleansers were all ced neatly beside her for her to use...


    After Sang Wan washed her face, the maidservants continued to get Sang Wan ready for bed. They removed her jewelry and hairpin before helping her change into her nightgown. With that, Sang Wan proceeded toy on the bed while the maidservants left the chamber. Only Liu Ya was left in the chamber with Sang Wan to answer to further requests.


    The room was quiet now. On the circr window, behind the red gauze curtain that hung on the wall, was a bronze tripod incense burner. A thin curl of smoke can be seen, rising from the incense burner and giving the chamber a sweet fragrance. The sapphire blue vase, decorated with jade... almost all the furnishings within the chamber are exquisite and valuable. The wealth of the Shi household is not something the Sang family can easily attain.


    With no one else inside the chamber except the two of them, the cramped feeling gradually disappeared and Liu Ya regained her curious nature. Gazing at the interior furnishings of the chamber, Liu Ya¡¯s eyes shone brightly, brightly enough to show how shocked and amazed she was.


    She slurped a praise.


    ¡°Miss... I mean... Ma¡¯am, the Shi family household really are rich! All these things are definitely worth a great deal of money!¡± Liu Ya eximed while her eyes remained fixed on a two feet tall gold painted statue.


    Sang Wan smiled and squinted to look at Liu Ya, ¡°How do you know these stuff are worth a great deal of money?¡±


    Liu Ya exined, ¡°Gee, one look and anyone can tell! They¡¯re so beautiful...definitely very expensive! Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    Seeing Liu Ya¡¯s shiny eyes staring at her, in hopes of receiving a definite answer, Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help butugh. She nodded and replied, ¡°Yes, of course, they are definitely valuable!¡±


    ¡°Hmm, how much?¡± Liu Ya¡¯s eyes shone and became even more interested. ¡°How many eggs do I have to sell before I can buy one of these? Two hundred? No, three hundred? Four hundred?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled. Looking around, she pointed at the tripod incense burner and said, ¡°That one is worth around ny cows! The rest might be worth even more. However, I¡¯m not sure how many eggs they are worth.¡±


    ¡®Ah! So...so expensive!¡± Startled, Liu Ya¡¯s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. Herdy wasn¡¯t kidding! Subconsciously, she clenched her fists and said, ¡°The worth of your humble maidservant isn¡¯t as much as that! Miss...Ma¡¯am, Liu Ya will take a few steps back...a few steps back.¡±


    Depressed, Liu Ya hung her head low and the light in her eyes vanished. The items in the chamber were worth even more than her! If she were to identally break one, selling her wouldn¡¯t even be enough topensate! Due to her having many siblings and her family being poor, her parents were forced to sell her off at a cheap price. With that, she was assigned to serve Sang Wan. Although the life of serving ady wasn¡¯t rich, her stomach would never be empty; and she had never been reprimanded before. The thought ofmitting a grave mistake and resulting to her master selling her away made her shudder. To Liu Ya, that would be the most miserable thing that can happen!


    Part 2


    She wanted to say that from this day onwards, she would not make any mistakes and serve her Ma¡¯am properly. However, Sang family and Shi family are two different families. Since this morning to when the maidservants were getting her Ma¡¯am ready for bed, she was of no help at all!


    Not because she waszy, but because she does not know how to. A maidservant, innocent of the knowledge on how to serve! There were many equipment she had never seen before; and even if she did, she does not know what they are used for!


    The uneasiness she hid gushed out all at once from the bottom of her heart,shing at her tiny heart violently.


    Among all the maidservants, she is neither clever nor capable. With so many maidservants to serve her Ma¡¯am, will her Ma¡¯am still need someone as useless as her?


    Liu Ya¡¯s face turned pale and a shiver ran down her spine.


    ¡®Peng!¡¯ She kneeled beside Sang Wan.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am! Ma¡¯am! Liu Ya will learn! Liu Ya will learn diligently and learn everything! Ma¡¯am, please do not sell Liu Ya! Liu Ya is more than willing to serve Ma¡¯am for a lifetime!¡± With tears flowing down her cheeks, Liu Ya jerked her head up to look at Sang Wan.


    ¡°Liu Ya! Stand up!¡± Sang Wan dragged herself to sit on the bed before extending her hands in an attempt to help Liu Ya up. Thinking about all the bad experiences she had in her past, Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but pity the maidservant.


    ¡°Liu Ya, do not worry! I will not sell you. Even if the Shi family were to sell you, I will stand by you and protect you so long as you are obedient! You...¡±


    ¡°I will! I will! Liu Ya will listen! Liu Ya will listen to everything Ma¡¯am says!¡± Liu Ya nodded vigorously, like a chicken pecking the rice on the floor before asking Sang Wan pitifully, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Wan sighed. ¡°In this house, we are like family. To survive in this house, we¡¯ll have to depend on each other! You have an impulsive behavior and easily bickers with others. In the future, that is not eptable!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll change! I¡¯ll definitely change! Even if others were to beat me up or scold me, Liu Ya will not return the favor!¡± Hearing that Sang Wan still has need of her, Liu Ya¡¯s heart was fixed firmly to serve Sang Wan.


    ¡°Good. Another thing, you¡¯ll only have to serve me. When I¡¯m not around, you¡¯ll stay near the chamber to do needlework. Whoever asks you to do something has to go through me first. Of course, with the exception of Sir, Li Mama, and Zhide.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am! Liu Ya will keep that in mind!¡±


    ¡°More work and less talk, especially about our background; do not tell anybody. Listen to others only when you have to and ask only those that are relevant. Our Sang family is nothingpared to the Shi family. The less they know about our family, the less they will talk about us.¡±


    ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t presume. If you are unsure, ask your colleagues. Do not feel shy or embarrassed.¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡±


    ¡°Manners are also important. After all, this is Shi family and not our Sang family!¡±


    ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am!¡±


    ¡°Be polite, especially to Li Mama, Zhide, and the rest. They may not sell you if you offended them, but suffering under them would be unavoidable. When that happens, I will not be able to help you and you will have to suffer in vain.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am! Your maidservant, Liu Ya, remembers them all! Liu Ya will not do anything to get into trouble and cause Ma¡¯am to be humiliated!¡± Liu Ya¡¯s bright expression slowly returned as she agreed to each of Sang Wan¡¯s teachings.


    Sang Wan smiled before reaching out her hands again to help Liu Ya up, ¡°Why are you still kneeling? Quickly, get up.¡±


    ¡°Ai, Ma¡¯am!¡± Liu Ya rubbed her eyes and stood up before giving Sang Wan a big grin.


    Seeing her smile, Sang Wan followed suit and her gaze swept gently around the chamber. Looking at the exquisite and elegant furnishings, she asked, ¡°Afraid?¡±


    Liu Ya thought for a while before nodding and replied timidly, ¡°a little. I¡¯m a little nervous I think.¡±


    Sang Wan nodded slightly. The transition from the countryside to the city for a naive person is too difficult to bare, what¡¯s more to enter the richest family in Qingzhou! The her in the past was the same. The more she fears, the more others will look down on her; even the elders too. In the end, many people bullied her and slowly, she fell into despair in a cold abandoned corner.


    In this world, never shall she want to suffer such a fate again!


    ¡°Do not be afraid and learn slowly. No one will eat you up, so what is there to fear?¡± Sang Wan rubbed her wrist and gave an encouraging smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re right Ma¡¯am. At most, they¡¯ll onlyugh at me!¡± Liu Ya giggled when she heard Sang Wan¡¯s encouragement and her eyes sparkled.


    With the master and servant both seeing eye to eye with each other, they each made a resolve.


    After exiting the small garden, Shi Fengju hurriedly went to the study room.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er!¡± Shi Fengju burst into the study room through the door. Seeing Gu Fangzi slowly flipping an ount book one page at a time, a sense of pity welled up inside him.


    ¡°Elder cousin!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes and face lit up but immediately dulled. Putting the ount book aside, she forced a smile at Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er...¡± Unable to restrain his emotions, Shi Fengju moved towards Gu Fangzi and embraced her. Gently, he patted her on the back. Not knowing what to say to her, no words came out from his mouth.


    Likewise, Gu Fangzi remained silent but gently wrapped both her arms around his waist.


    ¡°Unlike us who are filthy, my cousin-inw is dignified; beautiful; sensible, and has a good personality. Needless to say, her temperament. Nothing less from a schr¡¯s daughter.¡± Soon after breaking free from Shi Fengju¡¯s arms, Gu Fangzi said it softly with a smile.


    Clearly, she was jealous and forcing herself to say such generous praise. The jealous side of her was not a side she would easily show to others and seeing it made his heart flutter. Raising his eyebrows, Shi Fengju joked, ¡°Really? Is that how you truly feel?¡± As he continued, he rubbed his chin, ¡°Well, hearing you say that, it does seem true!¡±

 Chapter 6: The Self-Defeat of Enlightenment

    <h4>Chapter 6: The Self-Defeat of Enlightenment</h4>


    Part 1


    ¡°How could you say that?¡± Gu Fangzi never expected him to respond in such a way. Even though he may have said it jokingly, her heart still received a wave of unspeakable grief. She felt both offended and ufortable. Crouching on the spot, she sobbed and hugged both her legs tightly.


    ¡°Why did you cry?¡± Shi Fengju had always liked teasing her, but this time, she might have taken the joke too seriously and cried. Panicky, he immediately tried to coax her, ¡°Fang¡¯er, Fang¡¯er, don¡¯t cry. Please don¡¯t cry ah. What I said just then was just to tease you. Why did you take it so seriously and cried? My good Fang¡¯er, please don¡¯t put me on the spot! You know I¡¯ll never woo anyone else except you, so please don¡¯t cry.¡±


    Gu Fangzi grunted softly and turned away from Shi Fengju, refusing to look at him. Only after coaxing her for a long time did she finally replied, ¡°How could you joke about that? You...you already know that she ¡ª¡ª, how could you use that to tease me?¡±


    Seeing that she is alright now, Shi Fengju chuckled, ¡°Still angry at me? Wasn¡¯t it you who started it first? Did you listen to yourself when you said those unpleasant words just then?¡±


    She stared sternly at him and became silent. With a grin on her face, she giggled softly, ¡°You only know how to annoy and bully me! I¡¯m so silly to let you bully me...¡± With that, her voice eventually became softer and she became shy as she turned her body towards him. The girl¡¯s coy was indeed moving.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was ovee with warmth and he sighed softly, ¡°Fang¡¯er, I¡¯ll not bully you anymore, so next time, don¡¯t say such silly words!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s bittersweet heart couldn¡¯t help but be discontented. ¡°You won¡¯t bully me? You marrying Sang Wan into the Shi family is equivalent to bullying me! If you really meant what you said, you would have disapproved the marriage! And regarding whether that will affect the Sang family¡¯s reputation or not, what has it got to do with you? What has it got to do with the Shi family?¡±


    Of course, those were only Gu Fangzi¡¯s thoughts. On the surface however, her face disyed a sweet smile and softly ¡°En¡± to show that she agree with him. Looking directly at Shi Fengju, she said, ¡°Elder cousin, hearing those words are enough for me. I am a very naive person, so I¡¯ll take your words and remember it for a lifetime!¡±


    ¡°Of course. Forever.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and nodded heavily.


    Her eyes flickered and her once steady gaze wavered. Her emotions could be seen flowing out of her gaze which carried a trace of distrust andck of apprehension.


    ¡°Actually, Cousin-inw really isn¡¯t that bad.¡± Gu Fangzi understood what he was saying, and added, ¡°Elder cousin, she must have scored a few points in your heart didn¡¯t she?¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡± Astonished, Shi Fengju eximed, ¡°How could you think that way?¡± His heart had always belonged to her. All these years, he only had eyes for her and his heart yearns only her. Never had his eyes left her, so how could she say that to him?


    ¡°Okay, okay. Just take it as I¡¯ve said something wrong!¡± Seeing his cold face, she couldn¡¯t help but feel remorse as he was indeed angry. For being suspicious of him, Gu Fangzi immediately apologized.


    However, deep within, a shadow of doubt still remains. They grew up together and thus she knew him all too well. The day when the marriage date was set and especially the day before her cousin-inw was married into the Shi family, Shi Fengju¡¯s expression was unsightly and cold. But today, that cold expression hadpletely vanished! His eyes were calm and poised which made her feel very uneasy; as if something was very amiss.


    Since this marriage was arranged by the elders, Sang Wan marrying into the family was already concluded. Gu Fangzi had already epted that fact long ago. She was neither afraid nor worried as she believed that Shi Fengju is not a heartless and unfaithful person. The bond that the both of them shared is not something that can be easily broken; the arrival of Sang Wan into the family is not something that can change that fact, even if she were an angel dispatched by heaven!


    So what if she had stepped into the Shi family and became a couple with Shi Fengju? The war has only just begun. Who can say that she has lost?


    But for the time being, it seems she was a little too careless!


    ¡°In the future, do not be cranky!¡± Shi Fengju sighed.


    ¡°It is only because I care for you!¡± Gu Fangzi pouted, ¡°Are... are you really sure your heart won¡¯t waver; you won¡¯t like her?¡±


    ¡°Of course I won¡¯t!¡± Shi Fengju answered firmly.


    With that, Gu Fangzi felt delighted. ¡°Then, do you have anything you would like to say to me?¡±


    Startled, he almost blurted out the secret between him and Sang Wan to Gu Fangzi. However, he managed to control himself. Not because he does not trust Gu Fangzi, but because he was confident that the world is not foolproof. And naturally, the less people who know of their secret, the better. And also, since half a year will be over soon anyway, letting the cat out of the bag now wouldn¡¯t be such a wise idea.


    The idea of giving her a surprise in the future would also be good!


    With that in mind, Shi Fengju held back the urge to tell Gu Fangzi and smiled, ¡°Only that. I will not be unfaithful to you.¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Although disappointed, she felt happy inside and nodded with a broad smile on her face.


    After the vindication between her and Shi Fengju, she half-jokingly asked, ¡°Well, since my cousin-inw just got married into the Shi family, don¡¯t you want to go back and spend some time with her?¡±


    Her hesitant tone to express her unwillingness and dismay; her gentle words to show her benevolence. Those were the principles she wanted him to see; to see the good side of her.


    Part 2


    ¡°That would not be necessary.¡± Shi Fengju shook his head and said without hesitation. Deep within, both of them knew they weren¡¯t even actual couples to begin with. What¡¯s more, she might not even want him to always be by her side anyway.


    Hearing such a firm answer, Gu Fangzi felt happy. However, her act must go on. Raising her eyebrows gently, she whispered, ¡°That...might not be good right? After all, the maidservants treat people differently ording to their social status and also, Cousin-inw just got married into the family... which would mean...¡±


    Shi Fengju was stunned, and soon after gained an ¡°epiphany¡±.


    She was right! Sang Wan still has to live in the house for around half a year! Half a year... seemed neither long nor short. Not being able to rely on her own family background, if he were to treat her ¡®coldly¡¯, her half a year in the house would definitely be miserable!


    On his helpless face, his eyes could not help but expose a soft sweetness as he recalled her pitiful plea after they left the courtyard together; the ¡°Ouch¡± sound she made after twisting her ankle; and her stealing a march on saying those cleverly crafted words after they entered the small garden.


    Immediately, Shi Fengju understood! With his eyes fixated only on his cousin after the ceremony, that problem was not something he¡¯d bothering up with. However, Sang Wan had already thought of that problem but did not voice it out to him.


    His heart suddenly surfaced an unspeakableplexity and felt kind of bad for her.


    To have solved the problem that beset him for years, he definitely had to return her a favor!


    The consequences of giving up the seat of being his wife, she knew it all too well but still insisted on it anyway. While he felt sorry for her, he couldn¡¯t help also feel secretly annoyed. If only he knew what her heart was thinking, he would have stood firm and requested his mother to cancel the marriage! If so, things wouldn¡¯t have to end up the way they are now.


    As he thought things through, he shook his head and sighed.


    It was both his grandfather and father¡¯s will that his mother carry it out. Knowing his mother¡¯s temperament, she¡¯ll definitely not have agreed to cancel the marriage.


    ¡°Elder cousin, you...what¡¯s the matter with you?¡± Gu Fangzi saw that her words had greatly affected her lover and secretly regretted.


    I¡¯ve really shot my mouth off and dug my own grave this time around!


    ¡°Nothing much! I¡¯ve got some ount books to check. Why don¡¯t you go apany my mother and have a chat with her, and maybe see if there is anything you can help her with?¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    After the ceremony, there¡¯ll definitely be chores that have to be done.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll go ahead then.¡± Gu Fengzi nodded. ¡°It¡¯s almost noon. Don¡¯t immerse in your work and forget about your lunch again!¡± She reminded him before taking her leave.


    ¡°En! Off you go!¡± Shi Fengju nodded and smiled.


    Without a choice, Gu Fangzi turned and left. Deep within, she felt a little disappointed. If this were in the past, he would have asked her to stay for lunch with him and thereafter head together to have a light chat with his mother!


    After Gu Fangzi left, Shi Fengju thought for a while before calling for Zhan Huan, a manservant. ¡°Go to the small garden nearby and tell one of the servants there that Sir is going back for lunch.¡±


    Surprised, Zhan Huan stared at him nkly. Seeing a ring pair of eyes staring back at him, he quickly withdrew his gaze and said, ¡°Yes, yes Sir!¡±


    After leaving the study room, Gu Fangzi, apanied by maidservant Lan Xiang, made a detour through the flower garden. As they drifted, Gu Fangzi suddenly turned and headed in the direction of the small garden with Lan Xiang following closely behind.


    ¡°Miss...¡± Lan Xiang¡¯s face was pale. She looked a little nervous, and at the same time a little excited.


    Miss is heading to the small garden. Is she going to show dominance over Sir¡¯s wife? Her opponent has already seized the position of being Sir¡¯s wife! Would it be appropriate for Miss to go there? Will Miss be at a disadvantage? En, that can¡¯t be. Our Miss has both the Shi family mother and son protecting her; even the young Messrs and Misses have to be courteous towards her. Certainly, she won¡¯t be at a disadvantage, right?


    ¡°My cousin-inw just got married into the family. Me being her cousin-inw, I can¡¯t not give her my greetings!¡± Gu Fangzi raised a corner of her lips and her face hung a huge grin.


    After having a long conversation with Liu Ya, Sang Wan returned to rest on her bed. Soon after, her rest was interrupted by Zhide who knocked and entered the chamber to inform her of Sir returning for lunch.


    Sang Wan was surprised. But since her ¡°husband¡± had already so, she had to agree, and certainly not continueyingzily on her bed. Sitting upright on her bed, she instructed Zhide, ¡°Since that is the case, ask the kitchen staff to prepare a few more dishes that Sir likes to eat, but be in no hurry to serve them now. Only serve the food when Sir returns.¡±


    Zhide agreed with a decent reply. Taking another nce at Sang Wan, she said, ¡°Zhide will now ask some maidservant to help Ma¡¯am wash both face and hair!¡±


    ¡°That would be great.¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded while resisting the urge to blurt out ¡°thank you for the trouble¡± these five words. By saying those five words to the maidservants, instead of receiving gratitude from them, rather they would look down her etiquette. If therees a time when she needs to show authority, it would prove difficult! This is the hierarchy of the Shi family, not a haven like the Sang family.

 Chapter 7: Lost Marbles

    <h4>Chapter 7: Lost Marbles</h4>


    Part 1


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± Once Zhide went out to instruct the maidservants, Liu Ya eagerly called out to Sang Wan. Rubbing her hands together excitedly, she said with a determined voice, ¡°Ma¡¯am, rest assured! Liu Ya will learn with all her heart!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled softly, ¡°No need to hurry. Haste makes waste.¡±


    After dressing up herself properly, a young maidservant with important news barged into the chamber. ¡°Ma¡¯am, Miss Gu is here!¡± She eximed, with a pinch of excitement in her voice. Hearing that, the other maidservants instinctively gauged Sang Wan with their eyes.


    This is a show that must not be missed!


    ¡°My cousin-inw has arrived? Quickly, invite her in!¡± Sang Wan secretly smirked to herself, but on the surface, she gently instructed the maidservants and acted as if the guest was just her cousin-inw.


    But in actual fact, shouldn¡¯t that be the case?


    ¡°My dear cousin-inw! Congrattions, cousin-inw!¡± Before Sang Wan even heard it, Gu Fangzi had already entered the chamber, with Lan Xiang following closely behind. With both hands, one above the other, on the left side of her waist, she bowed elegantly to Sang Wan and smiled delicately, ¡°It is a little impolite of me toe unweed, but I hope my dear cousin-inw will not give me the cold shoulder.¡±


    ¡°How could I? Quickly, enough of the manners!¡± Maintaining her smile, Sang Wan personally assisted her into the chamber. Upon entering the chamber, Sang Wan ordered a maidservant to serve the tea before sitting down, together with Gu Fangzi. With the same smile, Sang Wan said, ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to have a conversation with someone, and luckily, you¡¯re here! I¡¯m clumsy at speech and shallow in knowledge; I hope cousin-inw wouldn¡¯t find me uninteresting to talk to!¡±


    ¡°Why would I? Cousin-inw, you¡¯re too polite!¡± Gu Fangzi giggled, and the twodies gazed at each other.


    After finishing the tea, Gu Fangzi discreetly observed Sang Wan. Concerned, she asked, ¡°My dear cousin-inw, yourplexion does not look too good. Is it because you were too busy and neglected your rest? A woman should care more for her own body. Us women can neglect almost everything, but absolutely not our own body. Cousin-inw, there is no need to scruple; when it¡¯s time to rest, rest well! My aunt is a very nice person, and she treats others even more so! Once you¡¯ve stayed long enough with her, you¡¯ll understand.¡±


    As Gu Fangzi¡¯s soft and gentle words of concern flowed into her ears, Sang Wan felt as if she was in a trance. Snapping herself back to reality, she recalled the good Gu Fangzi¡¯s advices had done to her! The enthusiasm and concern Gu Fangzi disyed were like a fire pit, giving her warmth in the cold weather; much better than the way Shi Fengju treated her. And regarding her mother-inw¡¯s temperament and preferences, those were all only heard through Gu Fangzi¡¯s mouth. As a result, she followed the descriptions given by Gu Fangzi and caused her mother-inw to despise her as the days went by!


    The more she thought, the more she wanted tough. Credit must be given to Gu Fangzi; clever to an extent that she was able to utilize those underhand methods with ease! What¡¯s more, being led by the nose and deceived so badly by Gu Fangzi, Gu Fangzi herself was however able to slip away guilt-free!


    Of course, Gu Fangzi was not the one at fault; all the fault lies solely on Sang Wan herself.


    ¡°Many thanks to cousin-inw for the care and concern! Ah yes, cousin-inw, from where did youe here from?¡± Sang Wan smiled as she asked.


    Gu Fangzi was amazed that Sang Wan did not take the opportunity to find out more about her mother-inw! Her mother-inw¡¯s attitude directly determines her position in the Shi Family; does she not care about her position in the Shi Family at all? Or, is she already well-prepared?


    ¡°I was at the flower garden not long ago. The current weather is good, so I thought of picking some freshly bloomed flowers and cing them in a vase before giving them to Aunt. However, after strolling around, I didn¡¯t spot any good ones. But luckily, I was near the small garden so I came to see you!¡± Gu Fangzi replied, with a warm smile on her face.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Sang Wan¡¯s eyes lit up. Conveniently, she asked, ¡°I see, my mother-inw likes fresh flowers. May I know which type of flower she likes the most?¡±


    Seeing Sang Wan slowly treading on the path she wanted her to follow since the beginning, Gu Fangzi was secretly delighted. Smiling, she and Sang Wan continued to have a conversation. After quite a while, she bid Sang Wan goodbye and promised to see her again the following day before making her leave.


    Naturally, Sang Wan readily agreed. Smiling, she personally went to see Gu Fangzi off. As for the maidservants¡¯ different opinions regarding the scene just then, she decided to turn a blind eye.


    Still, she hoped that one of them would foolishly be brave enough to voice out their cynicism in front of her. That way, she would not need to find a reason to discipline the brave soul and at the same time give a warning to the rest of the maidservants.


    For the maidservants, their opinions of her are unnecessary, but she believed that Wang Shi and Shi Fengju would not like to have unruly maidservants in their household.


    Part 2


    Lunch time, Shi Fengju really came. He arrived on the dot, and just as arranged, the dishes were served onto the table directly from the kitchen without the need of a steam box to keep the food warm.


    ¡°I had some matters to deal with in the study room.¡± Shi Fengju coughed as he said it inly.


    Sang Wan stared nkly at him. Did he just tried to exin why he left in a hurry just then?


    Still, his good intention will not be unappreciated. More importantly, it proved effective for the maidservants who were listening.


    Gently, Sang Wan nodded with an ¡°Oh¡± and continued, ¡°Sir, you must be tired! For today¡¯s lunch, I¡¯ve requested the kitchen staff to prepare some of your favorite dishes. Do dig in!¡±


    Seeing her smile gracefully, he became more natural. And just like that, they were like a real couple; a real family. The awkwardness in his heart gradually disappeared. Of course, the night before they had already spoken their mind, so the awkwardness disappearing is not something impossible.


    ¡°Dig in!¡± Shi Fengjuughed. Skimming his eyes across the table, he noticed that the soup and all the other 8 dishes were his favorite. He said, ¡°In the future, no need to take me into ount. If you¡¯ve something you¡¯d like to eat, feel free to ask the staff to serve them.¡±


    Sang Wan smiled slightly. As she sat, she spoke, ¡°I don¡¯t really have anything in particr that I like to eat. We are not too fastidious about our food.¡±


    Shi Fengju stared at her nkly before giving her a smile and stopped pursuing further into the conversation. He knew full well of the Sang family¡¯s current situation. However, never did he thought that Sang Wan would say it so gracefully, as if it was not embarrassing. This scored a few points in his heart.


    After all, such words are not something a man can easily express. But for a woman, the difficulty is on another higher level!


    After the two had their lunch, Shi Fengju instructed Zhide to bring in all the maidservants, who are assigned around the small garden, to meet their Mistress. For now, she¡¯ll have to live her life in this world. And as for him, to ensure she is not looked down upon, and her stay here is without misery.


    Sang Wan was astonished. He must have hit his head when he went out just then! Never could she imagine his temperament and actions to make aplete flip! Of course, she was delighted nevertheless!


    Immediately after Shi Fengju disyed his affection towards Sang Wan, the maidservants assigned around the small garden quickly went to give their respect to her. Some of the maidservants who were previously unruly towards Sang Wan now felt very perturbed as they fear that the new Mistress might carry a grudge towards them. This made them more polite and cautious.


    Sang Wan ordered Liu Ya to take out the gift that she had prepared beforehand. The gift was colorful pouch, embroidered with a variety of auspicious patterns. In the pouch were a few scattered coins. The current Sang family¡¯s financial situation isn¡¯t well off, thus Sang Wan¡¯s gift could not be too generous. The sum of coins in the pouch could be anything ranging from 2 silver to 2 copper coins. In the eyes of the maidservants in the Shi family, such amount amounts to nothing! In her past life, because of the gift, she received a reputation of being stingy, thus losing the hearts of her maidservants. However, due to her family¡¯s current financial state, the most she can give amounts to only that little.


    ¡°I can only give you this much, treat it as a figure of luck ¡ª¡ª What I¡¯m saying is the truth and not just for show! If you dislike it, you may return it! If you all work diligently, maybe in the future I might take advantage of Sir¡¯s family fortune and reward all of you generously!¡± Sang Wan said half-jokingly.


    Upon hearing that, the maidservants could not help butugh. Even Shi Fengju smiled slightly.


    With that, the slight unhappiness towards Sang Wan vanished like the wind! No one in the chamber does not know of their Mistress¡¯s family financial state. But still, the pouch is nothing but a figure of luck! Being a maidservant of such a wealthy family, who would reallyck such a meagre sum of money? However, since their Mistress had already given her word, worrying about the present would not bring any benefit to them in the future!


    And since Sir remained silent and did not rebuke, her words might be true!


    ¡°Since Ma¡¯am has already given her word, for tonight¡¯s banquet, have the kitchen staff prepare two more extra tables for all of you to attend and enjoy! Tell the kitchen staff to put that into my ount! Zhide, you¡¯ll do the relevant arrangements!¡± Shi Fengju carried the spirit of helping others till the end, andughed.


    The maidservants¡¯ eyes glistened and their faces exposed a broad smile. Rarely was the young master this generous, thus given such opportunity, who¡¯ll not be happy? Again, Young Master did this only because of their Mistress, and as such, their attitude towards Sang Wan took a turn for the better.


    Liu Ya was even more excited, and sheughed without restraint.


    Seeing that his part has been yed well and done, staying with Sang Wan still made him feel a little ufortable. Thus, he came up with an excuse and left. Sang Wan and the maidservants hurriedly went to see him off. And after that, the maidservants apanied Sang Wan back into her chamber. This was still much better than her previous life by many folds!


    Sang Wan did not let such a great opportunity, to win over the hearts of the maidservants, slip by. She had a long conversation with them before instructing them to return to their tasks. Deep down, she sighed.The incidents in the past, she too was responsible for them; by trying too hard to maintain her image and for being too submissive! If not for the dreary lesson gained after her death, perhaps in this life, changing her usual temperament might pose a challenge!


    At night, a banquet was held in the courtyard, and together with Wang Shi, they had a hearty meal. No less, the couple¡¯s act continued; husband and wife on good terms, and respectful towards each other. This made Wang Shi very pleased. asionally, she would smile and nod.


    Deep down, Wang Shi is against the marriage. But immediately, she suppressed it. After all, it was her father-inw and husband¡¯s will. As a daughter-inw, and a wife, it is her duty to fulfill their final wish. Unless Sang Wan is handicapped or has a bad reputation among the people, the marriage will go as arranged. As for him, he¡¯ll have to endure for the time being.


    Once in awhile, Gu Fangzi would look away from the crowd and discreetly convey her goodwill and friendliness. And from time to time expose a friendly smile at her. Seeing Gu Fangzi smiling at her, Sang Wan politely smiled back. Even though she knew full well of her intentions, she couldn¡¯t help but feel worried, but since Gu Fangzi is keeping her act, why not y along?


    At night, the awkwardness lingered in the air as the couple were left alone in the chamber.


    A small group of maidservants would asionally scurry past the small garden. Clearly, Shi Fengju sleeping outside in the small garden would be impossible. As a newlywed, him sleeping in the study room is even more of a no-go.


    And because of that, he was in a more awkward situationpared to Sang Wan.


    ¡°It¡¯s already veryte! I¡¯ll sleep on the floor, and you¡¯ll sleep on the bed!¡± Immediately after saying so, he swiftly grabbed a mattress from the cupboard andy it gently on the floor. Right after removing his robe, he tugged himself under the quilt. Looking up at Sang Wan, he wanted to say something but quickly stopped himself.

 Chapter 8: A Misunderstanding

    <h4>Chapter 8: A Misunderstanding</h4>


    Part 1


    Sang Wan was already on the bed, quietly looking at him as he hurriedlyy a mattress on the floor. Upon seeing him gaze directly at her with an unenergetic face, she felt ufortable and her face flushed slightly. Luckily, the lights were dim; Shi Fengju was not able to see her expression clearly.


    ¡°I...I do not usually wake up in the middle of the night to use the washroom...¡± Sang Wan said shyly.


    If she were to wake up in the middle of the night to use the washroom, it would bound to have the maidservants wanting to help her in any way they can. But if they were to happen to have a glimpse inside the chamber, her life would crumble!


    Shi Fengju felt a little self-conscious after hearing what Sang Wan said. Dropping his head and nodding a few times, he murmured, ¡°if you ever wake up in the middle of the night, just give me a nudge.¡± That would provide him with enough time to return the mattress into the cupboard.


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Wan whispered softly. Gently, she pulled the bed curtain down before lying on the bed.


    After hearing the rustling sound of the bed curtain, Shi Fengju followed and lie on his mattress.


    At the corner of the chamber was a crimson red oilmp, emitting a dim orange light. The chamber is now quiet and at peace...


    In actual fact, such a life is still great. Sang Wan tightly wrapped her body under the warm brocade nket. A touch of fragrance filled her nose, and before she knew it, she fell into a deep sleep.


    Shi Fengju woke up early the next morning, and naturally, Sang Wan could not remain in bed. Once she heard Shi Fengju getting up, Sang Wan followed and sat upright on the bed. Snatching a gown from the edge of her bed, she dressed herself up casually before getting out of bed. With a smile, she greeted him, ¡°Sir, good morning!¡±


    ¡°En, morning!¡± Shi Fengju was caught off guard and was slow to react.


    ¡°Young Master! Ma¡¯am!¡± Zhide¡¯s voice could be heard outside, followed by the faint sound of the maidservants¡¯ light footsteps.


    Zhide has served the Shi Family for many years, and is familiar with Shi Fengju¡¯s daily routine. She guessed that Shi Fengju should be awake by now, and thus she knocked the door gently to gain entry into the chamber to serve.


    ¡°Wait! Wait!¡±


    Panicky, both Shi Fengju and Sang Wan cried out at the same time.


    On the floor, the mattress stood out easily. If they were to barge into the chamber, the mattress is not something that can be turned a blind eye to. When that happens, no words can reason for it.


    Shi Fengju retrieved the quilt frantically and messily tugged it inside the cupboard. Seeing the messy state the quilt is inside the cupboard, Sang Wan signaled him to stop and whispered, ¡°I¡¯ll do it!¡±. With that, she got busy. Grabbing the quilt, she jerk it a little to make it straight before using her palm to tten and fold it. She then ce the quilt neatly inside the cupboard before moving on to the mattress.


    The mattress was rolled and ced inside the cupboard, but only God knows whether a maidservant would even bother opening the cupboard to see the mattress and quilt not in the position they once were!


    He knows how to doy the mattress, but not how to do the opposite? Even though she was taught since young to be independent, suchbor is not what most women from other families are willing to do.


    Once Shi Fengju saw her clear the mattress away neatly, he nodded towards her and smiled to show his gratitude. Immediately after that, the couple searched high and low. Finding no fault in the scene, their mind were finally free from anxiety.


    ¡°Come in!¡¯ Shi Fengju shouted faintly.


    ¡°Yes, Sir.¡± Zhide replied softly and gave the door a light push.


    The atmosphere inside the chamber was somewhat strange this morning; once in awhile, the maidservants would steal nces at her and Shi Fengju, and giggle amongst themselves.


    Catching wind of the strange atmosphere but unsure of its origin, both Sang Wan and Shi Fengju felt uneasy.


    Only after everyone left, when Liu Ya was unable to contain her curiosity and asked Sang Wan enthusiastically, did Sang Wan understood the cause of the strange atmosphere she experienced just then.


    To her surprise, the maidservants were actually very shocked when the couple chorused and their thoughts drifted; as if they were doing something indecent!


    With mixed feelings, Sang Wan was speechless and unable to express her emotions urately.


    This day, a man from the Shi business house rushed in and brought the helpless Shi Fengju away. And once he went, he returned when the day was young no longer. It was as if his act yesterday was used topensate for today; leaving his newlywed wife and indulge himself in his own personal life. Well, at least the maidservants did not, because of this, ridicule her behind her back. After greeting her mother-inw, she returned and slowly enjoyed the breakfast prepared for her. Strolling in the small garden and gossiping with the maidservants, her day was passed leisurely. Her position in the Shi family can now be considered stable.


    Compared to before, can this not be considered as such? On this very day in her past life, Shi Fengju too did not apany her but tantly left her alone at aplete loss with no one to depend on...


    Part 2


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, I¡¯ll need someone to go down with me to the Treasury to do a check on your dowry. Once the check is done, your dowry will be delivered here!¡± A young married maidservant entered the small garden with a smile.


    Sang Wan did not have any other maidservants who apanied her into the Shi family, except Liu Ya. And since her dowry needs to be checked, she had only Liu Ya to send.


    Upon hearing the maidservant¡¯s request, Sang Wan nodded gently. She called for Liu Ya and gave her a few instructions before handing a dowry list to her for her topare with the dowry in the Treasury. Though the dowry may not be much nor valuable, her sister-inw prepared them with all her heart.


    Liu Ya agreed, and smiled at the maidservant, ¡°Sister, please lead the way!¡±


    The maidservant however, stood motionlessly. With her eyes, she scrutinize Liu Ya carefully from head to toe before awkwardly smiling at Sang Wan and said, ¡°Ma¡¯am, it¡¯ll be better to send someone with experience. What¡¯s more, this...this is to check your dowry!¡± Suggesting that the maidservant herself does not believe that a small girl like Liu Ya will be able to aplish the task.


    Liu Ya was white with rage. If she were to hear this in the past, she would have immediately bickered with those who offended her. But after recalling Sang Wan¡¯s words yesterday, she firmly suppress that anger and did not respond.


    Beneath, Sang Wang felt a little ufortable. But with a smile, she reaffirmed, ¡°Just let her follow you. You can rest assured that Liu Ya knows how to read and will not make a mistake. Moreover, she will definitely not deter you frompleting your errand!¡±


    The maidservant¡¯s face became flushed and forced a smile, ¡°Well, if Ma¡¯am says so! Nubi* asked in vain! The Sang family, truly is a literary family. Geez even the little girl knows how to read.¡±


    *Polite way for a maidservant to address oneself.


    It sounded neither like a praise nor criticism. Her palms tightened but she kept her smile and voiced, ¡°hurry along! The earlier you leave, the earlier your errand will bepleted.¡±


    In the midst of her sentence, she gave Liu Ya a wink. Liu Ya grunted before taking a deep breath and extinguishing the hatred within her. Forcing a smile on her face, she took two strides forward and gestured the maidservant to lead the way. ¡°Sister, please!¡±


    The maidservant remained silent and bowed as she withdraws away from Sang Wan before leading Liu Ya to the Treasury.


    Gazing at their back as they left, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes shed with anger. If there were neither any support nor authority behind, a maidservant would never dare to openly make any thoughtless remarks no matter how courageous she may be. And in the end, Liu Ya¡¯s ability might have been a little too shallow.


    Besides, as Liu Ya followed the maidservant to the Treasury, the maidservant did not provide any breathing space for the poor girl; asking as many questions as she could. How old are you? How many people in the family? How did you end up in the Sang family? How long have you served Ma¡¯am? Slowly, the questions that rained down upon Liu Ya started to move into questions about the Sang family and Sang Wan. How many people are there in the Sang family? What are each of their temperament? How many hectares ofnd does that family have? How many rooms? What is the atmosphere in that family every day? How does Ma¡¯am spend her time every day? And so on... The maidservant might have as well studied about the eight generations of the Sang family.


    Liu Ya was a girl of many words. With a mouth that never closes; she was the best person, to obtain important information from, and to spread gossips. If not for Sang Wan¡¯s lecture yesterday, at that moment when someone made the first move to question her about some personal information, she would have spilled all the beans. However, keeping in mind of Sang Wan¡¯s words, how could Liu Ya not remain alert and embrace the conversation? Liu Ya discreetly guided the path of the conversation into her hands, obtaining various important information from the maidservant.


    The maidservant was suddenly taken aback and felt something amiss. She abruptly stopped her mouth and bitterly red at Liu Ya before clearing her throat. She continued, ¡°Enough of the useless gossiping. Let¡¯s quicken our pace! Lady Zhang is waiting for us at the Treasury! And I¡¯ve got other errands to run!¡±


    ¡°Ai, Sister Ning!¡± Liu Ya agreed. That expression on Sister Ning¡¯s face is not something that can be seen every so often, and with that, Liu Ya smiled broadly to herself.


    Seeing Sister Ning suppressing the unhappiness on her face, Liu Ya was secretly ted. Deep down, she mocked, ¡°Serves you right! Liu Ya is not so gullible!¡±


    Seeing that the one who came to do the inspection of the dowry was a little girl, Lady Zhang was taken aback. She frowned and went to have a few words with Sister Ning, but questioned no further after receiving Sister Ning¡¯s confirmation. One by one, she had Liu Ya check the dowry.


    Soon, Lady Zhang became veryfortable with Liu Ya. She couldn¡¯t help but have a favorable impression of her, a girl at such a young age who recognizes quite a number of words; has a brilliant smile; and has a mouth that knows ttery. Very quickly, the instructions for the delivery of the dowry was settled with ease.


    The Sang family truly is a literary family! When signing her initials, Lady Zhang saw Liu Ya¡¯s admirable calligraphy and once again praised her. Hearing the praise, Liu Ya smiled modestly. After receiving Liu Ya¡¯s signature, Lady Zhang, along with Sister Ning, left the Treasury. All alone, Liu Ya went to the outer courtyard and called in twenty manservants and a group of burly maidservants to lift the items, and carry them to the small garden.


    The task was simple, but who would have thought that a while after Liu Ya left with the maidservant, another maidservant came rushing into the small garden and anxiously reported, ¡°Ma¡¯am! Ma¡¯am! There is a problem! Sister Liu Ya and someone had a quarrel and are about to fight! Quickly, Ma¡¯am, go and take a look! Sister Liu Ya might be at a disadvantage!¡±


    Sang Wan was surprised. Not good! What could have caused it?


    The maidservant hesitated before continuing, ¡°Nubi...Nubi did not really hear much. Nubi only saw someone drop one of Ma¡¯am dowry. And because of the dowry, Sister Liu Ya had a quarrel. Nubi does not know what happened after that, but Sister Liu Ya was crying!¡±


    Sang Wan suddenly felt a surge of dizziness. That Liu Ya ah, she really knows how to find trouble. Already reminded her over and over again, but there she went, back to her usual self. This is the Shi family, not the Sang family! If the incident were to blow up, their life in Shi family will no longer be smooth flowing!


    In the end, Liu Ya is still part of the Sang family; Sang Wan cannot sit on the fence. Together with Zhide, Hong Ye and a few other maidservants, they rushed over to where Liu Ya is.


    The moment when Sang Wan arrived, Li Mama, the maidservant who serves directly under Wang Shi, was already there giving out instructions. Anxiously, the group hastened their pace.


    ¡°Y¨­! Ma¡¯am also came!¡± Once Li Mama spotted Sang Wan, she immediately went to to greet her. As she did so, her gaze swept across the group of maidservants behind Sang Wan, as if trying to find the meddler who alerted Sang Wan.

 Chapter 9: Irrelevant Nonsense

    <h4>Chapter 9: Irrelevant Nonsense</h4>


    Part 1


    Apparently, Li Mama has already handled the situation. Seeing so, Sang Wan was secretly relieved. As she observed Li Mama¡¯s bodynguage, she noticed that Li Mama was being a little uneasy but for the sake of this situation, she did not ask her directly; instead, she smiled at Li Mama and gave her thanks, ¡°thank you for the courtesy!¡± With that, she took a glimpse at Liu Ya and continued, ¡°That girl is prone to running into troubles when doing her tasks. Seeing that she had left for quite some time and had not returned, I decided to take a look to see if she had run into any troubles. And you, Mama¡ª¡ª¡±


    After finishing, Sang Wan looked at Li Mama with uncertainty.


    ¡°Uh, this old maidservant was just passing by when she saw the few arguing over a small matter and stepped up to tell them off. Everything is alright now! This old maidservant needs to return to serve her mistress, so do return to your chamber.¡± Li Mama hurriedly replied.


    ¡°I see, since the matter is small, let us all disperse and return to our tasks, shall we?¡± Sang Wan nodded gently before sighing at Liu Ya, ¡°You really are a girl who doesn¡¯t simply let things off. However, this is a family with different regtions where such matters are handled by the servant management group! Just look at you, because of this small matter, you had Li Mama here at the scene you¡¯ve created. Fortunately, Mama is a warm-hearted and friendly person who doesn¡¯t argue over small things.¡±


    Whatever happened here, since Li Mama deemed it as a ¡®small matter¡¯; it shall remain as a small matter and not something else! Though Sang Wan is still doubtful of the fact that Li Mama was just passing by as she is a busy person who serves her mother-inw, the old maidservant has Mother-inw Wang Shi supporting behind her; Li Mama¡¯s judgements are her mother-inw¡¯s judgements.


    Since this was just a small matter, Sang Wan has no need to pursue it any further. Otherwise, it¡¯ll just be deemed as being against her mother-inw openly.


    Liu Ya understood Sang Wan¡¯s purpose and did not attempt to worsen the situation. Lowering her head, she admitted, ¡°it is all Nubi¡¯s fault, and troubling Li Mama to handle this matter. Nubi hope that Mama would not put this incident to heart!¡±


    ¡°¨¡i, of course I won¡¯t! Such praise doesn¡¯t befit me!¡± Li Mama immediately smiled, and was finally at ease. Seeing so, Sang Wan smiled, ¡°Since everything is alright now, let us not dy Mama any longer. Mama, please!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am do retire too.¡± Li Mama bowed.


    Sang Wan did not stay to chat any longer. Instead, she nodded a few times and instructed Liu Ya to carry on with her task before leaving together with Zhide and the group of maidservants whom she brought along. Upon seeing Sang Wan leave, Li Mama turned and left.


    Once the dowry arrived at the small garden, they were all kept inside a small storehouse that is a stone¡¯s throw away from the garden. Once the matter regarding the dowry was settled, Sang Wan had Liu Ya exin the ins and outs of whatever happened just then.


    Turns out, while the group were carrying the dowry down a flight of stairs, due to the carelessness of the two manservants, a few of the boxes carried by the two met the ground. The fine cotton fabric, cambric paper, and white silk came rolling out of one of the boxes. Seeing the mess, Liu Ya instinctively gave them a scolding and instructed them to recover the dropped goods. After being told off, the two manservants showed a face of unwillingness but did as instructed. However, while they were recovering the goods, they purposely scrape the fabric goods on the floor and even ¡®identally¡¯ left footprints on them. Once again, Liu Ya became furious and scolded them to be more careful with the goods.


    Upon hearing so, the two manservant flipped and coldly murmured behind her back; saying how the fabrics were more suitable for the horsekeeper, and as rags for wiping. Why so serious when such fabrics will just be left in the corner to collect dust? The two manservants even mocked in front of Liu Ya, ¡°Well, unless Ma¡¯am wears clothes made from such fabric!¡±


    Liu Ya was at her limit. With the other servants mocking and adding even more nasty words to her, Liu Ya¡¯s anger exploded and she shot back at them; those hurtful words made Liu Ya so angry that she almost cried.


    Sang Wan slightly trembled as she listened to Liu Ya with her fists clenched tightly. The handkerchief in her palm was crumpled badly. The people in Shi family sure are snobby; even the servants dared to mock her only personal maidservant. Who knows, they might one day even mock their Ma¡¯am!


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, Nubi really wishes to go back to our Sang family!¡± Liu Ya said with teary eyes. Taking a nce at the exquisites within the room, she continued, ¡°No matter how great this ce is, it is not our home!¡±


    Sang Wan felt troubled and depressed. However, they¡¯ve already entered into the Shi Family; so without a choice, they would have to continue to live on in this house.


    Either to follow the path of her past life and take one step at a time into destion before dying coldly in a corner; or to create a new path for herself through hard work with the new life given to her, by bing a butterfly, and break free from the cocoon that once shackled her.


    ¡°Enough! The matter will just be some irrelevant nonsense within the family. I do not take it to heart, so why do you feel wronged?¡± Though deep down Sang Wan was feeling low and bitter, she kept her spirit up and forced a smile on her face to persuade Liu Ya. Though she said it for Liu Ya, those words were also to


    provide confidence for herself.


    Part 2


    ¡°Ma¡¯am,¡± Liu Ya looked gently towards Sang Wan and said bitterly, ¡°Nubi was only standing up against the injustice on behalf of Ma¡¯am! Our Sang family may not be rich, but it provides all the basic necessities for all its family members. Ma¡¯am, when had you ever received those senseless and cold words? What those people said were even sharper than knife! The people here really are no good!¡±


    Amused, Sang Wan giggled and tightly held Liu Ya¡¯s hand, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. We¡¯ll live our own life, and not for them. Do not keep those irrelevant nonsense to heart. Liu Ya, however they want to judge us is not important; what¡¯s important is we must never look down on ourselves because of it! And the day when we can be proud shall be the day we show them!¡±


    ¡°Yes! I¡¯ll never put what they say to heart! What they said just then was nothing; for all I care, they can even look down on me for a lifetime! Hmph, if they were in our shoes, I¡¯m sure they wouldn¡¯t be able to even endure this much!¡± Liu Ya said with her chin held high and her chest puffed out.


    ¡°That should be the mindset!¡± Sang Wan eximed. ¡°Go back and reflect about what you did wrong just then. And if a simr incident were to happen again, think about how you should handle it.¡± But upon seeing Liu Ya¡¯s unwillingness, Sang Wan sighed and corrected herself. ¡°Go and reflect whether what you did just then, arguing with others, was beneficial.¡±


    Liu Ya suddenly became very sluggish. It may be true that one should stand up against injustice. However, one should consider the who, when and where; otherwise, one would be digging its own grave! The best example would be the incident just then. She was so weak and pathetic during the argument that chances are, she might have be the joke of the household!


    ¡°Nubi will keep Ma¡¯am¡¯s words to heart!¡± Liu Ya said softly.


    Sang Wan nodded and had her return to rest. Alone, Sang Wan thought further into the incident and subconsciously, she suspected the cause of it to be Gu Fangzi. Who can me her for being suspicious of Gu Fangzi? In fact, that woman is truly worth her suspicion!


    In the courtyard sat Wang Shi listening to Li Mama¡¯s report. After hearing the report, she sighed, ¡°Good riddance!¡±


    The Sang family may not be simr to the Shi family, however, she had already married into the Shi family and is the wife of the family¡¯s head! If her face were to be lost, the Shi family will also lose its face.


    ¡°No doubt she is wise and questioned the incident no further. Otherwise, the situation would have worsened!¡± Wang Shi sighed as she said it. She felt ufortable that her own daughter-inw was ridiculed by her servants. Worst, if outsiders were to get wind of this, the Shi family will be the family of ridicule to the entire Qingzhou! And especially that Zhuang merchant family¡¯s Mistress; she would definitely make fun of her (Wang Shi) till she end up rolling on the floor!


    That woman had always been jealous of the Shi family; in a normal day where nothing is out of the blue, that woman would usuallye to find trouble. With that reason alone, if she were to hear a rumor about the incident, she¡¯ll definitely exaggerate it to humiliate the Shi family!


    ¡°Are the underlings instructed? If anyone dares to utter a single word about this incident, I¡¯ll definitely have them killed! And as for those two foolish manservants, have them sent to work as coolies! If they remain stubborn, send them into the Chuan Shu Forest to work as loggers! H¨¥ng, have them tamed!¡± Wang Shi instructed before grinding her teeth angrily.


    ¡°Rest assured Mdy, I¡¯ve already given out the necessary instructions to them. Ma¡¯am is an understandingdy; she¡¯ll definitely not mention this incident.¡± Li Mama answered hurriedly.


    The way Li Mama handle things, Wang Shi was rest assured. Upon hearing those words, she nodded her head and her face gradually rxed. Again, thinking about the incident, Wang Shi was not contented. Coldly, she groaned, ¡°Still, my daughter-inw is right! Those servants in the management group, what were they even doing? How did our household even have such unruly things? Today¡¯s incident may be small, but if those troublemakers were to create bigger troubles, it would be toote! Tell those underlings to be more mindful of themselves! And I want to meet with those servants from the management group; I would need to talk to them personally to make things clear!¡±


    ¡°Yes Mdy!¡± Li Mama knew her mistress is someone who looks highly upon reputation. And naturally, because of the incident, would need some people to pass that anger to. Too bad to those who are out of luck.


    After letting out the hate in her heart, she regained herself and continued, ¡°Because of this incident, my daughter-inw was ridiculed. What do you say; should I reward her with something to help her get over the shock?¡±


    Li Mama suddenly became speechless. Deep down she pondered a little. Yesterday, Mistress received the tea from her daughter-inw; rewarded her with a gift; and as for this small misunderstanding, since Mistress did not handle the matter personally, there was no need of any reward. If she were to do so, isn¡¯t that just finding trouble?


    ¡°From what I observed, Ma¡¯am has a great temperament and a vast amount of general knowledge. Perhaps ¡ª¡ª, h¨¥h¨¥, oh right, Ma¡¯am will be preparing the dinner tonight! It isn¡¯t toote to reward her with a praise if you like her cooking!¡±


    It is a Qingzhou custom for the newly wedded daughter-inw to prepare dinner specially for her mother-inw. This custom is to show the daughter-inw¡¯s ingenuity, virtuousness,petency, and capability.


    ¡°Yes, yes! I almost forgot! Then for tonight, that shall do it!¡± Wang Shi gently tapped her head and continued, ¡°Later on, help me ready some high quality gold hairpins!¡±


    Li Mama epted and left.


    In the end, Wang Shi was impatient and couldn¡¯t wait till night. She had someone call in the two concubines¡¯ daughters, Shi Lian and Shi Rui, and requested them to head to the small garden to apany Sang Wan.


    Upon seeing both Shi Lian and Shi Rui, Sang Wan took it as a big surprise.


    Starting a conversation with Shi Lian wasn¡¯t difficult whereas for Shi Rui, it would be the opposite. Shi Rui was just an eleven-year-old child who was yet to be sensible. However, as a daughter-inw, how can she cast aside the little girl? Sang Wan, with a broad smile on her face, personally went to wee the both and invited them into the chamber to have a sit.


    Shi Lian, whose biological mother was a concubine, Aunt Rou, had already passed away. As such, she was raised under her father¡¯s first wife who has the tendency to be affected by others¡¯ words, and is both temperamental and paranoid. Thus, she grew up as a cautious child. Normally, she would spend majority of her time shut indoors doing needlework; making clothes and shoes for her stepmother and two brothers, and rarely visiting the garden, much less visiting others. Shi Rui was also born from a concubine named Fang who was favored by Second Uncle Shi. Shi Rui was also very attractive and though young, she has a very lively personality.

 Chapter 10: Cooking

    <h4>Chapter 10: Cooking</h4>


    Part 1


    Shi Lian had onlye because of her stepmother¡¯s instructions. But because of her quiet nature and Sang Wan¡¯s unfamiliarity towards her, Sang Wan was left in an ufortable situation. Simrly, for a girl who puts her own safety first, there was nothing she could say to her sister-inw. But luckily, with the chirpy little girl, the awkwardness between the two were not that bad; they were at least able to have a few conversations with each other.


    The thought of Shi Fengju apanying Sang Wan to the Sang family early in the morning made Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart feel somewhat sour. But immediately, she got over it. Lifting her slender white fingers, she knocked softly onto Shi Rui¡¯s forehead andughed softly, ¡°You ah, only know how to y and care not for anything else! However, tomorrow will not be possible. Your big sister has to go for her homing tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Homing? What is homing?¡± Shi Rui was startled and asked cluelessly.


    The maidservants in a corner giggled among themselves. Sang Wan and Gu Fangzi couldn¡¯t help butughed. As for for Shi Lian, she finally had enough with the teacup and rested it on the table beforeughing with the rest of them. Seeing that everyone, except her, was mysteriouslyughing; she nced to her right, then to her left before asking with a perplexed look on her face. ¡°Did I... did I say something wrong?¡±


    ¡°What does a kid know?¡± Gu Fangzi nced at Sang Wan intimately before smiling, ¡°homing means to return to the parental home. Tomorrow, your big sister has to return to her parental home! Why don¡¯t we wait a few days when the weather bes a little warmer and pick a sunny afternoon to enjoy ourselves in the garden? We might as well fly kite too! What do you say?¡±


    Gu Fangzi took the initiative to help herself out of predicament; Sang Wan naturally thought the least she should do was show some sign of gratitude. With that, she nodded her head slightly.


    Shi Rui gave an ¡°¨®¡± to show she understood; but once she heard that she could also get to do kite flying, she was overwhelmed with excitement that she couldn¡¯t stop grinning and pping, and started talking about the big swallow kite in her chamber.


    ¡°We¡¯ve sat for quite a while already; let¡¯s not trouble big sister Sang Wan any further and head back now.¡± Shi Lian showed a tired smile as she spoke.


    ¡°That is so!¡± Gu Fangzi hurriedly smiled and nodded. Turning to Sang Wan, she continued, ¡°Cousin-inw Sang Wan still has to prepare dinnerter on so we should take our leave soon! Before that, let me give you a huge hint; Aunt Wang Shi loves to eat winter melon soup. X¨© x¨©, if cousin-inw were to prepare it, I¡¯m sure Aunt Wang Shi will be pleased!¡±


    Part 2


    ¡°Is that so? H¨¥h¨¥, many thanks to cousin Fangzi for the advice!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s eyes glistered and her lips hooked a smile; however, her hand that was clutching the handkerchief was rather tight.


    In her past life, Gu Fangzi also showed her kindness by giving her an advice. And sure enough, she heeded her advice and made winter melon soup. However, that soup was tampered with; and once Wang Shi ate it, she developed red rashes all over her face and was mocked by that Zhuangdy. And because of this, Wang Shi no longer wanted to see her again as she was so furious at her that her teeth itched!


    ¡°Cousin-inw, you¡¯re wee!¡± Gu Fangzi giggled and mischievously winked at her before leaving together with Shi Lian and Shi Rui.


    Sang Wan secretly sighed. Winter melon soup...winter melon soup!


    Now that Gu Fangzi had announced in front of so many people that Wang Shi¡¯s favorite dish was winter melon soup, if she were to not make it, it would seem as if she does not put Wang Shi of high importance; and deliberately rejecting Gu Fangzi¡¯s good heart! This winter melon soup... even if she were unwilling to prepare it, she would still have to prepare it.


    Though it was said that the new daughter-inw would be preparing the dishes, in actual fact, the kitchen staff would being out with a lists of dishes and the new daughter-inw would just have to pick the dishes enough for a table. Other than the one or two dishes prepared by the new daughter-inw, the rest of the dishes would be prepared by the kitchen staff. To have the daughter-inw prepare an entire table of dishes, where would she have the energy to do so?


    For this dinner in her past life, she made winter melon soup and steamed mandarin fish. Since there was no way of escaping from preparing the winter melon soup, Sang Wan decided to simply go on with those two dishes.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am,¡± Zhide rejected the keys and took a step back before giving a smile, ¡°This, it would be better if Ma¡¯am returns these to the Young Master personally! These keys are the Young Master¡¯s most treasured item. All of us Nubi do not dare to touch it!¡± Of course, such an important item was not something Zhide dared to touch as it might arouse suspicions.


    Sang Wan almost choked to a point where she might have fainted! How could her luck be so good? Does this mean that there is no way of escaping from heaven¡¯s will? She trod cautiously and persevered forward, and was just one step away; were they all for naught?


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, it¡¯d be best to head there quickly; Young Master is still waiting for it! ¨®, Nubi will look after the fire here!¡± sensing Sang Wan¡¯s hesitation, Zhide spoke sensibly.


    Since their exchange had reached to such a point, there was no reason left that could justify her hesitation. Shi Fengju is her husband; a husband is like a god, and his words are the heavenly edict. One does notply only when one does not wish to live to see another day.


    And that god directly concerns her life and death; a being that she can never provoke.

 Chapter 11: The Past She Cannot Avoid

    <h4>Chapter 11: The Past She Cannot Avoid</h4>


    Part 1


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll be back before you know it; so help me keep an eye on the stove!¡± Sang Wan sighed to herself and hurried back to the small garden.


    Once she handed the keys back to Shi Fengju, she hurriedly headed back to the kitchen. Knowing that she had to prepare the dishes for tonight¡¯s dinner, Shi Fengju remained silent and let her continue with her cooking.


    On the route back to the kitchen, Sang Wan gradually slowed down her pace.


    The me strength and duration, for both dishes on the stove, were different; the distance between her stove and Liu Ya¡¯s stove were far apart; and Zhide had already promised to look after her stove when she was away... under such circumstances, she could not request Liu Ya to help keep an eye on her stove¡ª- it would definitely embarrass Zhide! Moreover, the winter melon soup had already left her sight for such a long time. And since Zhide isn¡¯t her, who is extremely wary of her surroundings due to her past life experiences, if someone were to tamper with her soup, that person would have had ample time to do so during her absence.


    Regardless whether that soup was actually tampered, she cannot afford to take that risk!


    By any chance, if Wang Shi were to develop red rashes after eating the soup she made, the result was not something she¡¯d like to experience again!


    The winter melon soup must not be served.


    So what should I do?


    Sang Wan lifted her head to look at the vast empty sky as the sun gradually sets in the west, emitting a bright orange glow across the horizon. The view was like a beautiful dream and yet, all Sang Wan could feel was theing of a nightmare.


    Her gaze fell suddenly onto arge flourished tree. With that, her eyes glistened. That was a Chinese mahogany; she remembered that her mother-inw not only loves winter melon soup, but also bean curd with Chinese mahogany. Unfortunately, the leaves on that tree were no longer young; the season to eat bean curd with Chinese mahogany was already over!


    However, her face gradually brightened and the will within her firmed up. Her lips hooked to a side and she sneered; tonight, she would make bean curd with Chinese mahogany!


    There was no Chinese mahogany scions to be used, but the bark of that old Chinese mahogany tree can still be boiled. Once boiled, the water is then filtered before soaking the scions of the Chinese leafy vegetables for around two minutes. After soaking the scions, chop the Chinese leafy vegetables finely and it should look simr to when the Chinese mahogany scions were used. As for the bean curd, boil it in the Chinese mahogany vored water before taking it out and mixing it together with the chopped Chinese leafy vegetables. With the significant Chinese mahogany taste, the dish could be confused as an actual dish of bean curd with Chinese mahogany.


    In her past life, Gu Fangzi also made this dish for Wang Shi when there was no Chinese mahogany to be used. And once Wang Shi tasted it, she was delighted and praised Gu Fangzi for being skillful in her cooking. Today, she shall follow her example, which did not seem like a bad idea.


    Sang Wan mind was set. She immediately called for a strong maidservant to peel two big pieces of bark from the old Chinese mahogany tree before taking the two pieces to the kitchen herself and prepared the dish in ordance with her memory of how Gu Fangzi exined to Wang Shi regarding the method to prepare it; which attracted the gaze filled with amazement and curiosity from Lady Jian and several other kitchen staff.


    When it was time for the winter melon soup to be served, Sang Wan swiftly stepped and release her foot from a kitchen staff¡¯s long skirt before quietly dodging from the eyes of the kitchen staff. The kitchen staff gasp and knocked into the maidservant who was about to serve the winter melon soup onto Wang Shi¡¯s table. Losing her bnce, the winter melon soup in her hand fell and sttered onto the floor.


    Themotion rmed the people within the kitchen and they gazed in the direction of themotion. Their face instantly changed and they worriedly looked at one another.


    ¡°Nubi should be punished! Nubi should be punished!¡±


    ¡°Nubi didn¡¯t do it on purpose. Nubi¡ª¡ª¡±


    The maidservant and kitchen staff were both scared out of their wits. One pleaded guilty and the other tried to justify herself; both were not in the right frame of mind. That dish was not any ordinary dish; it was a dish prepared as a newlywed daughter-inw by their Ma¡¯am which was to be served to her mother-inw as a sign ofpetency. No words could let them off easily; knowing so, the two immediately kneel on the floor.


    Sang Wan remained silent and her eyebrow was raised slightly. Pursing her lips up, she disyed an indifferent expression.


    She was this family¡¯s new daughter-inw. With the use of her position to reprimand them would certainly look arrogant; but if she were to let them go too easily, she¡¯ll lose her dignity. As such, remaining silent to express her dissatisfaction and displeasure would be the most appropriate.


    In her past life, she was too gentle and kind, and was thus stepped on by people. Many people are like that; feares before respect.


    But once all authority is lost, recovery would never be easy!


    Anyway, someone would definitely voice out if she remained silent.


    Lady Jian secretly winced. She was the head staff; if the servants beneath her were to stir up trouble, she would also have to bear the responsibility. Stepping up quickly, she gave the two a scolding before turning to Sang Wan and bowed as she apologized. With a smile, she spoke, ¡°These two servants will not go unpunished; rest assured Ma¡¯am, this old maidservant here will punish them severely till satisfactory! Still, things have ended up this way and the winter melon soup ¡ª¡ªh¨¥h¨¥, if I may, luckily, Ma¡¯am was foresighted and made bean curd with Chinese mahogany. Laonu suggests serving the steamed mandarin fish together with the bean curd with Chinese mahogany! Ma¡¯am, at this moment, dinner is of importance; dinner willmence shortly! These two wretched maidservants will definitely not be let off easily!¡±


    Part 2


    The moment Lady Jian spoke, the rest of the kitchen staff helped plead for leniency and the two who were kneeling on the floor kept apologizing profusely. As the maidservant¡¯s age was still small, she sobbed and almost cried as she apologized.


    Sang Wan had seen enough and sighed helplessly. ¡°Lady Jian is right; the mistress¡¯s dinner is of importance. This isn¡¯t the time talk about such things!¡± Her sight fell onto the inedible winter melon soup and sighed as she expressed a sense of helplessness and dismay.


    Seeing so, Lady Jian and the two ¡®culprits¡¯ felt even more ashamed. Clenching her teeth, Lady Jian spoke generously, ¡°Ma¡¯am, these two servants could not stay out of trouble at such an important asion. However Ma¡¯am did like to punish them, please instruct and Laonu will carry them out unconditionally!¡±


    Deep down, Lady Jian screamed of unluckiness. The only way to ease Sang Wan¡¯s mind would probably be give her the reins. That way, not only would it provide Sang Wan with an opportunity to let off some steam and feel better, it would also save herself from Sang Wan¡¯s anger.


    ¡°Oh? You¡¯ll do as I say unconditionally?¡± Sang Wan raised her eyebrow and smiled faintly at Lady Jian.


    Lady Jian¡¯s heart began to beat loudly and she suddenly felt a little regretful of what she just said. However, since the words had already left her mouth, she had to bit the bullet and nodded without a choice. ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am, Laonu will do so unconditionally!¡±


    Sang Wan smirked and spoke to the two frightened servants who were kneeling on the ground, ¡°The two of you can be at ease now! I can see that you¡¯re both honest servants; and since this is nothing but a small ident, I shall not punish the two of you!¡±


    The two servants were bewildered and gazed at each other, as if they had heard wrongly.


    The kitchen staff and Lady Jian heaved a big sigh of relief. With a big grin, Lady Jianughed, ¡°Why are the both of you still kneeling down for? Stand up quickly, or are you waiting for Ma¡¯am to help you up?¡± With that, she turned to Sang Wan and smiled, ¡°Thank you Ma¡¯am for your kindness! Our Ma¡¯am is truly big-hearted!¡±


    ¡°Thank you Ma¡¯am for your kindness!¡± The two knocked into each other¡¯s head while climbing onto their feet andughed, as if woken up from a nightmare.


    Sang Wan¡¯s gaze returned to Lady Jian and smiled. ¡°They may be able to get off the hook, but being the head of the kitchen, that shouldn¡¯t be the case for you; am I right?¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, that...¡± Lady Jian¡¯s relieved heart tightened once again. Her eyes widened as she stared at Sang Wan and a bitter taste gathered in her mouth.


    Just what is the meaning of this? Never had there been anyone who lets a sinned maidservant off but punishes the overseer! The kitchen staff, and the two servants who were spared, stared at Sang Wan in disbelief.


    Sang Wan smiled, ¡°As for the punishment, it¡¯s very simple. You¡¯ve been working in the kitchen for many years, am I right?¡± Seeing Lady Jian nod, she went on, ¡°Then in the future, I would like to have you teach me how to cook some of the other dishes; as a daughter-inw, I ought to respect and serve both my mother-inw and my husband well. For that, Lady Jian, will you teach me?¡±


    ¡°¨¡iy¨­, Ma¡¯am!¡± The moment Lady Jian heard her, her expression rxed and she patted her chest. With a smile, sheughed, ¡°Ma¡¯am, your joke went a little too far; it almost scared Laonu to death! Of course I will; any time when Ma¡¯ames to the kitchen, Laonu is willing to teach! As for the Mistress¡¯s, and the Young Master¡¯s, preferences and tastes, Laonu knows them like the back of my hand!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am truly is filial!¡±


    ¡°Yes! Very virtuous!¡±


    After the bad fright, the atmosphere loosened up and everyone could not help but startedughing.


    Sang Wan followed andughed before waving her hand and spoke, ¡°Enough. Everyone, please return to your work! It is almost time for the dishes to be served; Lady Jian, please oversee the distribution!¡±


    ¡°Rest assured, Ma¡¯am!¡± Lady Jianughed.


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded. After today¡¯s incident, at the very least no one would dare to use any underhanded methods today, and even if that person was determined to do so, an opportunity will be hard toe by.


    The table was set and the twelve dishes, together with a soup, were served neatly onto the table. In a corner sat Wang Shi, Shi Fengju, Shi Lian, and Gu Fangzi; the second branch* members were not present. Shi Fengju¡¯s younger brother, Shi Fenghua whom studies in the Yuanchang academy, returned for two days and went back to the academy after yesterday¡¯s tea ceremony.


    *Second branch refers to the second uncle and his family.


    Sang Wan stood upright beside Wang Shi; holding a clean pair of silver-d chopsticks in one hand and a white te in the other, she was ready to attend to her mother-inw. The two dishes that she personally prepared were ced directly in front of Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi had already caught wind that Gu Fangzi told her daughter-inw that she likes winter melon soup. But after ncing across the table, she spotted no winter melon soup. Because of that, she felt a little displeased.


    To deliberately not make her favorite dish even though she knew what it was; just what is the meaning of this?


    Originally, Sang Wan nned to find a suitable time for her to justify her actions. However, upon seeing Wang Shi¡¯s displeased expression, she cast that idea aside; seizing the opportunity is of importance!


    ¡°Mother, your daughter-inw had originally prepared the steamed mandarin fish and your favorite winter melon soup! However, because of a careless maidservant, the winter melon soup was knocked over! For that, me this daughter-inw for being worthless! As such, this daughter-inw hurriedly prepared a bean curd with Chinese mahogany dish. Why don¡¯t Mother have a taste to see whether the dish is to your liking?¡±


    ¡°Bean curd with Chinese mahogany?¡± Wang Shi¡¯s attention was suddenly sparked. ncing at the te next to the steamed mandarin fish, she smile, ¡°Oh, is it this? H¨¥h¨¥, from where did you get these Chinese mahogany scions in this season? But now that you¡¯ve aroused my tastebuds, I¡¯m starting to yearn for some bean curd with Chinese mahogany!¡±


    ¡°Mother, have a taste!¡± Seeing the big grin on Wang Shi¡¯s face and that Wang Shi did not mention about the winter melon soup, Sang Wan understood that she had sessfully ovee an ordeal. As she conversed, she carefully ce the pair of chopsticks on top of Wang Shi¡¯s ce.


    Wang Shi turned her head slightly to have a look at her daughter-inw before smiling and picking up the chopsticks to have a taste of the dish. As she chewed, her eyes suddenly glistened and she nodded, ¡°Not bad! Not bad! A bean curd with Chinese mahogany dish! Come, the lot of you, have a taste and tell me whether the taste is right!¡±


    Once Wang Shi was ted, none dared to kill off that happiness in her. Tasting the dish with their chopsticks, they smiled and nodded.


    ¡°This sure is a mystery! Where did the mahogany scionse from? Sang Wan, why don¡¯t you exin to us how you made it?¡± Wang Shi asked joking.

 Chapter 12

    <h4>Chapter 12</h4>


    Part 1


    ¡°This knowledge doesn¡¯t deserve the attention, but I hope that mother will not take it too lightly!¡± Sang Wan smiled and softly exined the cooking process.


    As Wang Shi listened, she praised Sang Wan and held her hand with her two hands, ¡°You¡¯ve done well toe up with such a recipe! Nothing less of a daughter from a schrly family; a mind different from many others!¡±


    To have such a good daughter-inw married into the family, Wang Shi was extremely pleased while thinking of when she should invite Lady Zhuang over to enjoy the flower garden and at the same time introduce Sang Wan to her; and wrong her for mocking the ties between the Shi family and the Sang family.


    The thought made a better impression of Sang Wan. Feeling more satisfied, she praised her daughter-inw a few more times.


    On the other hand sat Gu Fangzi who was extremely angry. Just recently, she had got wind of a great way to prepare a bean curd with mahogany dish and was nning to cook it two dayster after Sang Wan got into trouble with her aunt for the winter melon soup. However, things did not go her way; the winter melon soup was not served, and Sang Wan was instead praised by her aunt. From where did Sang Wan learn to cook the dish the exact same way as what she had gotten wind of? And what¡¯s more, she had even beaten her to it!


    Holding back her bitterness, Gu Fangzi remained silent. But upon seeing Wang Shi praise Sang Wan generously, Gu Fangzi blinked a few times before smiling, ¡°Cousin-inw sure is both virtuous and skilfull! Aunt Wang Shi is right; none, other than her filial daughter-inw will be able toe out with such a method to cook the dish which can please her! Still, did the winter melon soup stter on cousin-inw?¡±


    The crowd could not help but turn their attention to Sang Wan, and Shi Fengju was not an exception. Concerned, Shi Fengju raised, ¡°were you get hurt anywhere?¡±


    Before anyone else could speak, Gu Fangzi continued and said jokingly, ¡°Ah yes; cousin-inw, were you hurt anywhere? It would break my cousin¡¯s heart if you were!¡±


    The broad smile on Wang Shi¡¯s face immediately turned slightly sluggish.


    Sang Wan did not feel anything amiss at first, but upon taking a glimpse at Wang Shi¡¯s annoyed expression, she was taken aback! No mother would like to see her son express his explicit concern towards his wife in front of her; even though that ¡°explicit¡± was Gu Fangzi¡¯s own intention.


    Shi Fengju secretly chided himself for being talkative and immediately seized his mouth from opening any further. Helplessly, he looked towards Gu Fangzi and managed a smile.


    To Wang Shi, that smile undoubtedly represents eptance and she could not help but feel a little annoyed.


    Although Sang Wan is her son¡¯s wife and Gu Fangzi is her son¡¯s would-be concubine, Gu Fangzi is still her niece, who had been by her side for many years, nevertheless; as such, her heart would somewhat be biased towards Sang Wan. For her son to cast aside his cousin, whom he had spent lots of time with together, and pay so much attention to his wife whom had just recently married into the family, how could she feel pleased?


    Sang Wan intentionally hang a foolish smile on her face. Looking towards Shi Fengju, she spoke, ¡°Sir, no need to worry; I wasn¡¯t hurt anywhere! Anyway, I¡¯ll promise to prepare another winter melon soup for mother-inw! Sir sure is filial; to remember in mother-inw¡¯s stead that if I were injured, I would not have been able to prepare another winter melon soup! Mother-inw, be at eased for your daughter-inw shall prepare and serve another winter melon soup personally tomorrow; and guarantees it¡¯ll taste better than the one before!¡±


    Once Sang Wan said her piece, Wang Shi immediatelyughed and the tiny seed of annoyance disappeared.


    ¡°The days ahead for you as a member of our family is long. Though I¡¯ll remember this, the thought is enough for now. You have your homing tomorrow so I¡¯ll not trouble you.¡± Though the words Sang Wan had spoken might be a little far-fetched, it would not stop this old mother-inw from listening; or rather, it was something she had liked to hear! And as for what Gu Fangzi said just then, wasn¡¯t it all just something she had said jokingly?


    Wang Shi giggled to herself. As one aged, do they be more narrow-minded? To have treated a joke as if it were true!


    Gu Fangzi followed andughed, but beneath thatughter was a sense of anger. She had wanted to craft a few more sentences to harass Sang Wan, but the thought of Shi Fengju made her endure. That bitter smile that he produced just then... if she does not keep her act together, Shi Fengju might feel disgusted towards her! She must not do anything that would put herself in a disadvantage!


    At the same time, Sang Wan heaved discreetly. Look at that, that is the way Gu Fangzi is! Aposed person who harbours ill intent; never can she lower her guard against such a person! That person¡¯s words may sound pleasant to the ears, but if not for the sufferings she had experienced in her past life, she would not have thought too deeply and would have been incredibly inclined to foolishly listen to those pleasant words.


    Afraid that Gu Fangzi might say something foolish again, Shi Fengju smiled at his mother and coaxed, ¡°Mother, the food will turn cold if we talk any further; why don¡¯t we start eating? As an olddy, aren¡¯t you hungry yet?¡±


    ¡°Ah yes! Yes! Let¡¯s dig in, let¡¯s dig in first!¡± Wang Shi smiled. Looking at Sang Wan slightly, she spoke, ¡°My daughter-inw, have a sit and let us eat together! You must be tired today after preparing these dishes! Quickly, have a sit!¡±


    Sang Wan spoke humbly and smiled before sitting next to Wang Shi, but not without using a clean pair of chopsticks to serve her mother-inw asionally. This in turn scored a few more points in Wang Shi¡¯s heart.


    Part 2


    Dinner ended perfectly with a breathtaking and rxing atmosphere.


    Together with Shi Fengju, Sang Wan left the courtyard. Wang Shi had already instructed for Shi Fengju to apany Sang Wan throughout the homing while holding onto her hand. Sang Wan hurriedly gave her thanks.


    Everything ended the moment the chamber doors closed. With yesterday¡¯s start, and their purpose stated, they were now on the same boat and were nowrade in arms. With that being said, it was also much easier to get along this time around.


    Whileying the mattress onto the floor, Shi Fengju chatted aimlessly along with Sang Wan. Still, in his mind, affirmed that even though they may be a fake couple, Sang Wan did not have to serve his mother so faithfully, but that would be deemed as neglecting the dos that a daughter-inw should do. However, seeing how much praise and respect Sang Wan gave to his mother, his heart was delighted and grateful. After all, why would he dislike someone giving respect to his own mother?


    ¡°Rest early today; you¡¯ll have to wake up early tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengju sat on his mattress and pulled the quilt over his body while giving Sang Wan a smile.


    The bed curtain has yet to be pulled down. Wrapped in a light blue embroidered robe, the pink inner nightgown was still a little exposed, and her hair was let down over the right side of her chest. Her rxed posture and peaceful facial features would have made even strangers toofortable with her.


    ¡°Young Master, I have a few words I¡¯d like to speak with you!¡± Sang Wan smiled as her mouth opened to speak those words. In her tone, there brought a sense of embarrassment in it.


    Looking at a beauty under the dim light was not something he was used to; still, he was not someone who looks for a person¡¯s appearance. But a beauty with a kind heart was not something his eyes and heart would resent. He couldn¡¯t help but took a glimpse at Sang Wan before sitting up straight and nodded. ¡°Please continue; just speak your mind out.¡±


    Sang Wan slightly thought over her words before smiling. ¡°I¡¯d like to thank Young Master beforehand for apanying me for my homing tomorrow!¡±


    Hearing so, Shi Fengju understood that Sang Wan had some stuff she¡¯d like to instruct and spoke generously, ¡°That is what I should do, so no need to thank me. If you have something you¡¯d like me to do, please say.¡±


    She was respectful towards his mother, so how can he not return that favor? For an opportunity for him to do so toe right up his doorstep, why not ept it?


    Seeing so, Sang Wan was secretly relieved. Keeping the smile on her face, she went on, ¡°Then I¡¯ll continue. I¡¯m sure you know my family¡¯s current situation, so I was thinking that we should only bring a small number of people for this homing, maybe one or two maidservants to follow us there as there is no need for a big crowd to follow us into my humble home. If arge number of people follow us there, I¡¯m afraid it might inconvenience my brother¡¯s wife who will be doing the hosting! There isn¡¯t any other reason behind it, just that my brother and sister-inw had already did so much for me, thus I don¡¯t wish to trouble them any further.¡±


    After speaking what was in her mind, she gave a sincere look at Shi Fengju. In her past life, her homing was carried out impressively, but were the servants from the Shi family not full of pride? Upon arriving at the Sang family, their eyes were filled with distaste and the tip of their tongues were filled with criticism!


    How could sister-inw Fang Shi bear to hear those criticism? At that time, her face was furrowed as the anger built up in her. Even Sang Wan was not spared from that anger. But what could Sang Wan do? She was like a rat stuck between both parties.


    It was a homing which made both parties on bad terms.


    It would have been great if the matter ended there. But unfortunately, the servants who followed to the Sang family spreaded rumors within the Shi family, and there were even some who defamed the Sang family in front of Wang Shi; saying how smelly it was there, and how arrogant and mean the Sang members were. What¡¯s more, they even went on to say how disrespectful the Sang members were just because they read a few books, and that the Sang members ridiculed how the Shi members stank of money!


    These few words pierced Wang Shi¡¯s heart and she became furious. She gave a scolding to the Sang members and called forth for Sang Wan to give a good lesson, before wishing to not see Sang Wan unless called.


    After hearing what Sang Wan said, he remembered the state of her house on the day he went to receive her during the wedding ceremony. Though he cared not for its state, he could somewhat picture whatever he saw during then.


    Two small courtyard and a few trees nted at the entrance. Behind the house was a fenced garden. The house was built with grey bricks and tiles, and though old, it was still well maintained and clean. Among the other vigers, that house was the most well-off.


    However, that was nothingpared to the Shi family¡¯s. That kind of house might not even be as good as those of the respected maidservants here.


    This was definitely a problem! If many people were to go there, that is not a homing, but an event that might throw her face!


    Shi Fengju was never a petty person, but disdain those children in rich families who liked to brag about how well-off their family were and refused to bend and be like them.


    ¡°It is my bad for not looking at a bigger picture.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and continued, ¡°I¡¯ll arrange it properly tomorrow, so rest assured!¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll give my thanks to Young Master again!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s heart leaped with joy and openly disyed her happiness towards Shi Fengju by giving him a broad grin.


    Shi Fengju smiled and shook his head.


    Taking advantage of the opportunity in front of her, she went on to describe her family, ¡°My family is fairly simple. My second brother studies in Wenchang Academy, and was present on the day I was married into the Shi family. However, he returned right after the whole ceremony ended. As such, my eldest brother, sister-inw, and together with their two children, a son and daughter, would have to take care of my elderly mother. There are no exquisites at my house. On behalf of my family, I apologize for the rudeness and hope that Young Master would excuse us!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed. ¡°I don¡¯t care about any of those. But hearing you say each sentence one after another made it seemed like you¡¯re nervous! To even bring up about exquisites; so what if there are exquisites!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled as she listened. ¡°Maybe I was just being a little too paranoid!¡±


    ¡°Yes you are.¡± Shi Fengju smiled in response.


    With that, the two returned to rest and the room was once again in a nket of silence. Well, not without Sang Wan rolling her eyes behind the bed curtains. Deep down, she thought, ¡°If you were like me and remember the experiences and memories from our past lives, I¡¯m sure you would not think that I¡¯m being a little paranoid.¡±


    This time around, the past life seemed a little more distant, just like a dream fluttering into nothingness. However, Sang Wan felt a little uneasy; unsure whether it was after all a mirage or an actual experience.

 Chapter 13

    <h4>Chapter 13</h4>


    Part 1


    The two woke up early next morning. They hurriedly got dressed and had a light breakfast before heading out.


    For the homing, Sang Wan did not bring a single maidservant from the small garden along with her to her parental home. Instead, she instructed Zhide to have her chamber and the garden looked after, and only brought Liu Ya along with her.


    As for Shi Fengju, he made a few adjustments to have only two maidservants, Zhang Huan and Shi Ming, and their husbands who aids him in his business, Li Yan and Song He, to apany him to Sang Wan¡¯s parental home.


    Two horse-drawn carriages were prepared beforehand; one for Sang Wan and Shi Fengju, and the carriage behind for the maidservants. The two confidantes would steer the carriage, and their wives together with Liu Ya would settle in the carriage. The gifts prepared were kept neatly in thepartment of the carriage the maidservants were in.


    Before leaving, Shi Fengju nced at Sang Wan; seeking for her green-light. Upon seeing her smile and nod at him slightly, Shi Fengju waved his hand and ordered everyone to board the carriages.


    The carriages drove past the gate and left the Shi family behind them. The sounds of the horseshoes hitting against the pebbled floor gradually became softer. There, behind a dense cluster of pomegranate trees, stood Gu Fangzi with a gloomy face. ¡°P¨¡¡±, a branch in her hand snapped in half and the green leaves in her hand were crumpled. That pale white palm of hers was stained with different shades of green.


    However, Gu Fangzi cared not for the stains on her pale white palm. Instead, her eyes boiled with rage as she gazed in the direction of the gate.


    That woman, cousin has gone to apany that woman back to her parental house!


    Though she knew the homing was unavoidable, she could not help but feel sullen. Her eyebrow raised slightly as the smile Sang Wan gave to Shi Fengju just then floated in her mind. The devious seed in her heart began to grow.


    ¡°Shi Fengju has no feelings for her! Shi Fengju has no feelings for her...¡± Gu Fangzi murmured to herself but only to pout her lips and shook her head as she sighed. ¡°To run out here to take a look, I sure asked for it! What¡¯s there even to see? Seriously!¡±


    The carriages left the city gates. Pulling the curtains apart, the repeated slopes of the distant hills could be seen. Her hands that were clutching tightly onto the handkerchief finally rxed, and her body would asionally sway from side to side. As if she were trying to suppress the excitement and nervousness within her, Shi Fengju could not help but size her up.


    Sang Wanughed awkwardly, ¡± To think that I¡¯m about to meet my brother and his family, my heart¡¯s feeling a little nervous!¡±


    ¡°Chi¡±, Shi Fengju suddenly burst out inughter. ¡°It hasn¡¯t even been a week since youst met them, what¡¯s there to be nervous about?¡±


    Sang Wan was suddenly brought to a daze by Shi Fengju¡¯s words but managed to force a smile. ¡°That¡¯s true; it has only been a few days. I sure am hopeless! H¨¥h¨¥!¡±


    A few days? To him, and everyone else, it may have indeed been a few days; however, to her, it had already been several years! To finally be able to see her blood rtives whom she had not seen for several years, how could she not feel nervous? How could she not feel a sense of longingness?


    Her honest and good-natured elder brother, her daring yet simple sister-inw, her lovable nephew and niece; do they still look the same as before? Will they still treat her well like before? Of course they will! Why? Because all the unpleasantness has yet to begin, or better still, will never begin!


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart did a few somersaults, but she quickly held a deep breath.


    ¡°No need to feel so anxious; there¡¯s still a two-hour journey to go! If you¡¯re feeling tired, you can take a shut eye for a while.¡± But the moment Sang Wan snapped, Shi Fengju stopped and dared not joke with her. Being an understanding person; perhaps every newly-wedded bride feels this way?


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was in a chaos, but upon hearing those words from Shi Fengju, she instinctively closed her eyes to organize her thoughts. She gave a slight nod to Shi Fengju and leaned to the side of the carriage wall.


    As noon approaches, the carriage finally arrived in the outskirts of Yangliu Town, Sihe Vige, and Sang Wan¡¯s parental house was located near the east entrance of the vige.


    The Shi family¡¯s carriages, drawn by two strong and healthy horses, were gorgeous; the wheels were half the height of a full grown man; the body was thickly coated with paint and decorated with magenta flowers sewed from fine silk. The four sides of each carriage hung a gold tassel, and the four edges of these carriages were decorated with sachets hung from a string of jade beads. The moment the carriages entered the vige, it attracted the attention of many vigers. Although there were only two carriages, they still garnered the envy of many. Seeing that the carriages were heading towards the Sang house, many couldn¡¯t help butment in their hearts. ¡°Nothing less from Qingzhou¡¯s Shi family! Impressive!¡± Moreover, there were a number of children giggling and following closely behind the carriages as they enjoyed the liveliness within the vige.


    The carriages halted at the entrance of the Sang house. Liu Ya, who was dressed in new clothes, hurriedly jumped off the carriage and went to assist Sang Wan as she exited the carriage.


    Not far away in the bustling crowd stood many wives gossiping among themselves. ¡°Y¨ª, isn¡¯t that Liu Ya? The dress she¡¯s wearing and those beautiful ornaments on her hair; ¨¡i, I¡¯ve never seen such beautiful clothings before! The Shi family sure is rich; even a maidservant¡¯s apparel looks better than ours!¡±


    Part 2


    ¡°Though I think not in the past, but it now seems thatss has definitely set a new standard of beauty!¡±


    ¡°The Sang family sure are lucky!¡±


    ¡°An unimaginary amount of riches! Soon, the Sang family will be basking in them! They sure hit a lottery this time around!¡±


    While the crowd were gossiping among themselves, Sang Wan had already stepped out of the carriage. The crowd¡¯s gaze immediatelynded on her. Dressed in a bright red, she wore a traditional jacket over her dress and the sleeves of her dress were embroidered with gold. A twin magenta rabbit was sewed onto the foot of her dress to carry the word of the double happiness. The dress was tailored perfectly for her slender and delicate figure! Sang Wan stood majestically for a moment. A beautiful peony flower was slipped neatly onto her temple and her hair bun was decorated brilliantly with ornaments made with pearls and jade. Her brilliance shone right past the crowd, yet they could not not their eyes off of her. The ornaments she wore were not something they had ever seen before, but they recognized the pair of ruby earrings, which were asrge as the base of a thumb, as they swayed from her movements. In all, her appearance was exceptionally eye-catching.


    The Sang doors squeaked open and Sang Wan was weed by her elder brother, followed by her lovable nephew and niece, Sang Quan and Sang Nuan, who were holding on to their mother¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Ah Wan, wee back!¡± Sang Hong rubbed his hands as he came forward. All could see that he was somewhat nervous.


    ¡°Big Brother!¡± Sang Wan smiled as she led Shi Fengju to meet her elder brother.


    Shi Fengju cupped both his hands and greeted with a ¡°big brother¡±, and Sang Hong quickly greeted back.


    Sang Quan and Sang Nuan were veryfortable with Sang Wan. Though thedy in front of them looked wealthy, her attitude remained gently like before. Immediately, they greeted ¡°Auntie!¡±. Letting go of their hands which were held tightly onto their mother¡¯s, the twounched themselves forward into Sang Wan¡¯s arms and giggled together with her.


    ¡°That ¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Hong gave a dry cough and invited the young couple into the humble courtyard. Suddenly, they heard a middle-aged man driving the crowd away rudely. ¡°Hey, hey hey, what are the lot of you gathering around here for? Shoo, shoo, there¡¯s nothing for you to see here! Before the lot of you offend the important guests, shoo! Disperse, the lot of you!¡±


    ¡°Qi¨¨!¡± The crowd spat in distaste and slowly dispersed. Those who spotted their children at the scene immediately pulled them away, and in a blink of an eye, the scene became empty.


    Sang Wan could not help but frown a little. Her heart dropped on the thought, ¡°Second Aunt and Uncle had arrived!¡±


    This work/trantion is property of ? Fantasy-Books and unless it¡¯s one of the approved sites listed in then this work has been stolen; reading this work on a stolen site is a clear disrespect to the content creators. Thank you.


    But before Sang Wan could react, Second Uncle, Sang Pingliang, took the initiative toe forward and exchange a warm handshake with Shi Fengju. As he did so, he grinned from ear to ear, ¡°Keke, this is the new member of our Sang family! What a talented and young man you are! The vigers know not for the regtions and may have disturbed my new nephew, but I hope my new nephew is an understanding man. Still there is no need for a person of your standing to be around people like them! Come,e, have a sit inside the house! I¡¯ve prepared some good tea for you to enjoy; quickly please my good nephew, quickly!¡±


    With that, he red at his daughter-inw who was having a conversation with the two wives, whom came along with Sang Wan for the homing, and chided, ¡°What are you standing there for? Quickly invite the important guests in and serve him!¡±


    ¡°¨¡iy¨­! I just felt a little muddled after feeling happy for our Sang Wan! Ladies, pleasee in! Ai, and the men standing there too,e in!¡± Li Shi pped her hands and warmly invited the group into the house.


    However, Shi Fengju felt a little disgusted with the Sang Pingliang¡¯s excessive ttery and frowned a little. Both his hands were tightly held by Sang Pingliang which added to his difort. Though he tried a few times to shake his hands off from the grasp of Sang Pingliang, it was all to no avail. It would¡¯ve been even more awkward if he had exerted a little more strength to shake those hands off and thus, he smiled helplessly on the spot. But to be honest, though those loud ttery echoed in his ears, he had no clue what Sang Wan¡¯s uncle just said.


    Sang Wan secretly cursed bitterly to herself. Though she made several winks to signal her elder brother, all he did was nibble his lips; he simply had no means to stop Second uncle.


    Seeing her Second Uncle and Second Aunt sang as they led Shi Fengju and the group to their own house, Sang Wan became anxious. She remembered this incident clearly from her past life. Second Aunt and Uncle slyly led Shi Fengju and the group to their house; even all the gifts were moved there. Once sister-inw returned and saw the situation, she immediately scolded Sang Wan forcking of conscience, to have forgotten who¡¯d helped her with her wedding day! The two weren¡¯t so easy to deal with too; they bickered with sister-inw and Sang Wan ended up with tears trickling down her cheeks due to the anxiety and shamefulness. The Shi family members on the other hand, stood at the sidelines as they relish the scene...


    ¡°Second Aunt and Second Uncle, that¡¯s the wrong direction. Our house is right here!¡± Sang Wan could not wait any longer and stepped up to intervene.


    At the same time, while Sang Pingliang was giving Sang Wan a cold re, Shi Fengju took the chance to retract his hands away from him and hurriedly went up to Sang Wan, ¡°Then let¡¯s go in!¡±


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi stared at each other for a brief moment.


    ¡°My dear Sang Wan, those words seemed a little aloof, don¡¯t you thing? What¡¯s with this ¡®your house¡¯ and ¡®our house¡¯? Are you not Sang Pingliang¡¯s niece? Can I not show some good hospitality to your husband? For father is long gone, and since that¡¯s the case, shouldn¡¯t a good uncle like me show hospitality in his stead? No need to feel modest. Com,e, uncle¡¯s house is just up ahead!¡± Sang Pingliang gestured gently while trying to hold back the crease on his forehead as deep down, he chided that ungrateful niece of his for not knowing her own family position.


    Sang Wanughed coldly to herself. In these few years, when had this ¡®uncle¡¯ ever taken care of her and her siblings? It was more of an utter insult to even have him as an uncle!


    An uncle who alwaysined and scolded her and her siblings about how her own father was not fate to be an official but still pursued that useless dream of his which resulted in their family¡¯s current financial state! He even chided her brothers for not only following the footsteps of their own useless father, but also tutoring others! Might as well return to plow the fields; that way, there¡¯ll at least be rice on the bowls! In short, his attitude towards them was, ¡°If you don¡¯t listen to me and end up starving, I will not care nor will I be bothered to, so don¡¯t ever find me if that were to happen!¡±


    When Second Brother finally received a few students and became their private tutor, Second Uncle demanded for half the meagre wage he earned, saying that those students were found by him.


    Second Aunt was no different. She went around gossiping about Sang Wan; going around saying that the Shi family would one day ask her to leave; and that Sang Wan should have taken a better look in front of a mirror as her bing the daughter-inw of the Shi family is nothing but wishful-thinking!

 Chapter 14

    <h4>Chapter 14</h4>


    Part 1


    Her honest big brother was not good with words, not to mention the one he had to face was his own uncle; he dared not go against him. If her big brother could not stand up against second uncle, second brother was in an even more disadvantageous position to do so! If someone were to use him of being ¡®disrespectful towards the elders, and does not conduct oneself properly¡¯, he would not be able to stay in the academy. Sang Wan felt that if that were to happen, the one who used her second brother would definitely be none other than her second uncle.


    As for Sang Wan herself who was married into another family, she was in no position to go against her uncle and was rightfully supposed to endure.


    Fortunately, there was sister-inw in this family. Her sister-inw was a bold and upright woman who was extremely outspoken. Though she would not openly go against her second uncle and second aunt, she would discreetly cause them to regret their actions and make them be at a loss for words! With her in this family, all second uncle and second aunt could do was go around gossiping about the Sang family, but would not dare cross the line.


    At present, the Shi family went on with the arranged marriage and married her into their family. In an instant, second uncle and second aunt had aplete flip of treatment towards the Sang family!


    ¡°How could I?¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°In the past, I dared not trouble second uncle and second aunt; and at this time, I dare not trouble my two elders even more so!¡±


    ¡°How could my niece still see us as an outsider? What trouble? We¡¯re a family, aren¡¯t we? Your second uncle has never felt troubled before;e,e!¡± Sang Pingliang¡¯s raised his thick brows as he said with a straight face.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right! Second aunt also has a lot of things to talk to you about! Your mother left early, how could I as your aunt not worry for you! When you were young, I doted you as if you were my own daughter; well, the only difference was you were not in my womb for that ten months!¡± Li Shi¡¯s face disyed an affection that a mother would towards her daughter.


    But Sang Wan was almost at her limit. How dare they say as if it was true!


    Even Sang Quan could listen no more. He made a face at Li Shi before hiding behind Sang Wan and shouted, ¡°Second great aunt never doted my aunt. Hmph! She even called her a jinx! The women in the vige said that the word ¡®jinx¡¯ is an offensive word!¡±


    ¡°You little devil, what nonsense are you spouting?¡± Red with anger, Li Shi red at Sang Quan.


    ¡°Disrespectful! Is this how you talk to your second great aunt? Who taught you that? Ah Hong, you¡¯ve got to be stricter with your kids for them to be sessful in life!¡± Sang Pingliang red.


    Nanny Xu hurriedly called at ¡°Young Master and Young Miss¡± before leaning towards the two and gently told them off. Sang Hong frowned but quickly forced a smile and responded with a ¡®yes¡¯.


    Sang Wan felt both frustrated and angry, but quickly rxed. Gesturing towards Sang Pingling and Li Shi, she persuaded, ¡°Second uncle and second aunt, please return first. Your niece shall pay a visit to your houseter on. But as for today, I¡¯d like to return to where my sister-inw is and at the same time greet my parents¡¯ memorial tablet. I hope second uncle and second aunt could understand where I¡¯ming from!¡±


    With that, she turned to Liu Ya and instructed, ¡°You¡¯re not a guest this time around, quickly invite the two ma¡¯am inside! Zhan Huan, carry the things in and have the carriages parked nicely!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am!¡± Liu Ya anxiously awaited for Sang Wan¡¯s instruct


    Liu Ya had been waiting for Sang Wan¡¯s instructions anxiously. Upon hearing so, she agreed crisply and smiled before inviting Li Yan and Song He into the house. asionally, she would take a few glimpses at Li Shi.


    Seeing their own master give his acknowledgment, Zhan Huan and Li Yan proceeded to get the job done; moving each gift into the Sang house.


    Sang Wan had already stated clearly that she and her husband would pay a visit to their house, and had even pulled herte parents into it. Sang Pingliang and his wife could only watch at sidelines silently.


    Watching the countless number of wrapped gifts being moved into the Sang house, Li Shi felt extremely unbearable and forced augh, ¡°Our niece is right, let¡¯s all go in, go in! Aiya, so many things to be moved; by the time they are all moved inside, the sun might have already set. Let us help out too!¡±


    With that, she began walking towards the carriage.


    ¡°I dare not trouble second uncle and second aunt to do suchbour suited for the servants! Second uncle and second aunt, please return and rest. We¡¯ll head over to your houseter to have tea!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Li Shi stopped in her tracks and her back suddenly straightened. Even Sang Pingliang¡¯s eyes dimmed a little.


    That¡¯s right, those people were nothing but servants. Being Sang Wan¡¯s aunt, her position is naturally higher than those servants. How could someone like her do the work of the servants? In front of so many people, she had an image to keep! Regardless, Sang Wan had already promised to visit her. Surely, she will bring along a few gifts on the visit. Hmph, even if she were reluctant to do so and brought an insufficient number of gifts, asking for more from Sang Hong isn¡¯t impossible! It¡¯d just be a matter of course before the gifts end up in their house anyway since they were elders, and since these were gifts, it¡¯ll surely be regrettable if they did not get their hands on them.


    Part 2


    ¡°H¨¥h¨¥, then we¡¯ll head back first. Doe over as soon as possible!¡± Though Li Shi felt a little unwilling, she retracted that unwillingness before saying sourly, ¡°That sister-inw of yours sure is irresponsible! I¡¯m sure she already knew that your homing is today, yet she isn¡¯t around to wee all of you! Aiyo, I think I¡¯ve spoken too much. I hope the new son-inw doesn¡¯t keep it to heart. She¡¯s a very self-centered person; barely a decent woman, that is!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in!¡± Sang Wan had no interest in going down the route of the conversation. Acting as if she had not heard her aunt, she gazed at Shi Fengju and gave an apologetic look.


    ¡°I apologize on her behalf!¡± Sang Hong apologized as he followed into the house. ¡°Your sister-inw was originally waiting at home to wee all of you, but upon hearing our next door neighbor, Da Hai, alerting us that the cow from the Li family was grazing our crops, she hurriedly rushed out. Why don¡¯t all of you take a seat first? I¡¯ll call her back and have her prepare lunch!¡±


    ¡°Brother, you should take a seat too. Let Liu Ya do that instead! Presumably, sister-inw might even be on her way back now!¡± As Sang Wan said, she took at glimpse at Shi Fengju.


    Taking the signal, Shi Fengju nodded andughed. ¡°It¡¯s still early. Take a sit first; there¡¯s no need to hurry!¡±


    Shi Fengju discreetly examined Sang Hong. After the incident just then, he was not surprised that a man such as Sang Hong was tasked to stay at home while his wife goes out to handle matters. Such an honest person would never be able to conduct negotiations with others! Still, just what kind of role does his wife y in the family?


    Thinking back to the confrontation between Sang Wan, her aunt, and her uncle, she was gentle with her words and her face hung a smile, yet she fought till the end without taking a step back; what a way to confront others imperceptibly while maintaining one¡¯sposure!


    This family sure is interesting!


    Sang Hong smiled and insisted no further. ¡°Then please!¡± He gestured to Shi Fengju to have a seat. Nanny Xu coaxed the two children to y in the courtyard before serving tea to the guests. Sang Hong politely gestured to Shi Fengju, ¡°My home is fairly simple with nothing interesting. I hope my brother-inw wouldn¡¯t mind.¡±


    Shi Fengju quickly responded, ¡°we¡¯re a family; there is no need for brother to be so polite!¡±


    Taking a sip of tea from the cup, Shi Fengju immediately felt his senses heighten. With all those noisiness and hard-to-ward-off enthusiasm now gone, he finally felt at ease!


    Without demur, Liu Ya immediately went to call for Fang Shi. Zhan Huan and a few others went to park the carriages before they unharnessed the horses. Li Yan and Song He on the other hand, sat in the kitchen cracking melon seeds while sipping tea as they rest.


    The servants Shi Fengju picked truly are level-headed. At this moment, each of them did what was required of them; as if whatever happened just then had never happened! Even the topic for the leisure conversation between the two maidservants as they sipped tea were nothing about the incident just then.


    ¡°Big brother and Sir, please remain on your seat while I see what I can prepare from the kitchen!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°No, no!¡± Sang Hong was startled and smiled before adding, ¡°your sister-inw will return soon! Early in the morning, ughtered chicken and scaled fish were already washed and sliced. A few of the leaf vegetables have to be pulled from our vegetable garden before all the ingredients for today¡¯s lunch is ready. Just leave this all to your sister-inw! It¡¯ll be better to prepare for the incense offering to mother and fatherter. You¡¯ll still have to pay a visit to second uncle and second aunt since they¡¯re our elders after all.¡±


    ¡°Big brother, I know!¡± Sang Wan grinned. Her second uncle and second aunt carried the title of the elders. No matter how much she disliked them, she had no say in that. ¡°I know my position!¡± she added before having a change of clothes and heading to the vegetable garden.


    Seeing so, Nanny Xu hurriedly halted her. ¡°Ma¡¯am, you¡¯re the newly-weddy now, such work is inappropriate for you to do! Otherwise, you and Young Master will be a hot topic for the vigers to gossip about! Why don¡¯t you look after the children and I¡¯ll go pick the vegetables instead?¡±


    Sang Hong immediately nodded.


    Seeing so, Sang Wan no longer insisted and nodded before heading out to the courtyard and y together with the two children.


    ¡°Sang Wan is a diligentss, with little to no time for herself. Me, being a useless older brother, had caused my siblings to suffer quite a lot! Brother-inw, I¡¯ll leave my younger sister in your care; I hope you¡¯ll take care of her, for she is a goodss!¡± Sang Hong gently heaved a sign of relief.


    But somehow, after hearing what the older brother said, Shi Fengju felt as if his heart had dropped; as if he had a bad conscience, though he had no reason to feel as such.


    ¡°Big brother, rest assured for I will take good care of Sang Wan and not let her be treated unfairly.¡± Shi Fengju was a little panicky and avoided gazing into his brother-inw¡¯s eyes. Still, he managed to force a smile as he affirmed.


    ¡°That I shall!¡± Sang Hong is a downright honest person who cannot differentiate between an exaggeration and truth from the heart. In addition to the good impression he had of Shi Fengju, the moment he heard so, his face immediately revealed a broad smile and nodded gleefully, ¡°No wonder my father were full of praise towards the Shi family when he was still alive. He even said that the Shi family was different from the rest; neither favours the rich nor despise the poor; and will not break a promised marriage. And that was so! With your affirmation, as her older brother, I¡¯ve finally aplished the wish of myte parents!¡±


    Seeing the bright smile and the glistening eyes, Shi Fengju smiled. Through having a guilty conscience, cold beads of sweat from at the back of his neck.


    ¡°Our Sang Wan is back! H¨¥h¨¥, due to some unforeseen circumstance, I was not able to be present to wee you. For that, I apologize!¡± The door to the courtyard creaked opened. A young woman, who had straight hair hung on the side of her temples and had a silver hairpin pierced through her hair, came through the door. Silk flowers, the size of a coin, were slipped into her hair that hung on her temple. The woman wore a magenta colored blouse, and skirt, embroidered with flowers. Tall and slender, the pair of eyes on her oblong face were bright and of a perfect size. She was bothpetent and efficient in the things she does.


    Sang Quan and Sang Nuan immediately greeted with a ¡°Mother!¡± before running to her.


    ¡°Sister-inw, you¡¯re back!¡± Sang Wan smiled and weed her. ¡°We¡¯re a family, what you said made me so embarrassed!¡± With that, she added to ask whether the case was resolved.


    Sang Wan pondered a little to herself. Though sister-inw treated her well, it was not to the point of being very intimate. It might have been probably because of her marriage into the Shi family. Because of that, her older brother took that into consideration and forbid her to do many of the house chores; even the simplest chores were not allowed. But only when there were too many chores would she then be allowed to do them. As such, even though her sister-inw might not have uttered a word ofint, she was unhappy and would sometimes give her a cold face.


    Still, sister-inw was different from second aunt. Neither was she one who would take advantage of a situation nor was she one that yearns for wealth. There must have been a reason behind her change in attitude! Sang Wan could not help but gaze at Liu Ya. Filled with doubts, her brow raised.

 Chapter 15

    <h4>Chapter 15</h4>


    Part 1


    Seeing her give a grimace, Liu Ya pouted and grinned before blinking a few times in the direction of second uncle¡¯s house. Sang Wan could not help but pout in response. No wonder! Liu Ya must have exaggerated the incident that urred just then as she filled Fang Shi in. Hearing how second uncle and second aunt was defeated by the Sang family, her heart leaped with joy!


    She was grinning from ear to ear.


    Fang Shi casuallyughed, ¡°everything¡¯s alright now! Sir and Ma¡¯am must be hungry by now, I¡¯ll go boil the chicken and fry the fish. The incense sticks are ready-made; after burning the incense and greeting mother-inw and father-inw, we¡¯ll have a hearty meal once I¡¯m done.¡±


    ¡°¨¡i, I¡¯ve troubled sister-inw again! Sister-inw, it¡¯s enough to just call me Sang Wan. Being called Ma¡¯am feels strange!¡± Sang Wan grinned and said before instructing Liu Ya to go help in the kitchen.


    Fang Shi gave a smile and took a glimpse at Liu Ya¡¯s attire. Immediately, she waved Liu Ya off. ¡°No need, no need. The kitchen is both dusty and greasy; there¡¯s no need to ruin her new clothes! Leave it all to me and Nanny Xu!¡± Again, she gave a stare at Liu Ya and teased, ¡°Lass, you sure are blessed to be able to wear such clothes! Serve your Ma¡¯am well. If you dare betray your Ma¡¯am, even if it means journeying to the edge of the world, I¡¯ll definitely seek you out!¡±


    ¡°Rest assured, Madam Fang Shi! Even if Liu Ya were unruly, Liu Ya dare not not listen to Madam Fang Shi!¡± Liu Ya chuckled.


    The people around chuckled along. Fang Shi then added to the tease, ¡°the littless finally grew a spine and dared to talk back!¡± Eyeing her children this time around, she gently chided them, ¡°No fighting! Don¡¯t dirty your aunt¡¯s clothes!¡± With that, she hurriedly called for Nanny Xu.


    The group immediately ced a partition around the memorial tablet and a small wooden table was ced in front of it. The food were then swiftly set on the table by Fang Shi. The whole chicken, fish, and arge rectangr piece of pork belly were ced on the table first before the two rice-filled bowls and two pairs of wooden chopsticks. Following that, the three wine cups and a pot of rice wine were ced carefully atop the table before she receded together with her two children.


    Sang Hong stepped forward and lit the candles. Holding the three sticks of incense in his hands, he gently bowed towards his parents¡¯ memorial tablet. Once done, he solemnly notified his parents that his younger sister was sessfully married into the Shi family, about how his brother-inw is a very nice man who treated his younger sister well, and that father and mother can now be at ease. Doing so, he carefully inserted the three incense sticks into the censer. Taking a few steps back, he returned to a side and gestured to Sang Wan and Shi Fengju to greet the parents.


    Hearing the words her older brother spoke, she was speechless and swiftly took a glimpsed at Shi Fengju. From where did her older brother see in him that he treated her well?


    After the greeting was done, and wine cups were filled, Sang Hong called for Fang Shi to clear away the food. The two siblings then burned paper money in the brazier that was ced in front of the memorial tablet after the food were cleared away and sprinkled a few drops of wine into it. Shi Fengju then burned a few more of the paper money before the ceremony was over.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Fengju, let us go pay a visit to second uncle¡¯s house and have theme over for lunchter on. After that, the two of you may return. The journey from here to Qingzhou isn¡¯t short; I¡¯ll be good to leave early.¡± Sang Hong spoke as he left the partitioned area.


    Sang Wan nodded and smiled, ¡°Then please excuse me for a moment. I¡¯ll go ready a few things first!¡± She couldn¡¯t possibly go to second uncle¡¯s house empty handed, could she?


    The bride price was prepared by her husband¡¯s family before the bride stepped through the door of her husband¡¯s household. It was up to the bride¡¯s family to decide as for how the bride price was to be subdivided. Sang Wan had a clear idea on what to do and had already done the necessary preparations the day before. Still, it¡¯d be best to notify Fang Shi first.


    As she pondered, she walked into the kitchen. Pulling Fang Shi to a side, she smiled and said, ¡°sister-inw, we¡¯ll be heading off to visit second uncle¡¯s house and will be bringing them over for lunch. May I bring along a pair of silk crape, gold hairpin, gold earrings, and two variants of silk for second aunt; two finely sewed gowns and two pear blossom vase for second uncle? As for my two cousins, they¡¯ll have two rolls of cloth, a pair of gold bracelet, and a bouquet of silk flowers each in addition with two thick and tender ham, a kilogram of white fungus, half a kilogram of bird¡¯s nest, and an envelope containing a hundred silver. What do you say, is that appropriate?¡±


    Fang Shi took a nce at Nanny Xu who was prying at their conversation, and sneered, ¡°You are now rich but too carefree for giving them so many gifts! If I were you, I¡¯d just throw ten silvers at them and I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be grinning from ear to ear! Those kinds of elder are not one you should even care for! If I may add, you¡¯re now married; you shouldn¡¯t try to do good if they¡¯re not worth your graciousness! Otherwise, you might end up suffering in the future!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled warmly, ¡°I know that my sister-inw is looking after my well-being, and I¡¯ll keep those words in mind! However, they¡¯re still elders and should still be given face ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ve wasted my breath!¡± Fang Shi broke away from Sang Wan¡¯s hands and sighed, ¡°is that so? Then move along! In any case, you don¡¯tck any of those items anyway, so why seek my advice?¡±


    Sang Wan pursed her lips tightly as she smiled and leaned forward, ¡°Rx, sister-inw. The good things are still left in this house. There¡¯s even something for second brother! The cheap ones are given to those outsiders!¡±


    ¡°Slyss, you haven¡¯t been married long into that family and is already so petty! But seeing you this way, your brother and I will be at ease!¡± Fang Shi¡¯s face brightened quite a little as she joked after hearing what Sang Wan said.


    Part 2


    Sang Wan giggled. Feeling warmth in her heart, she bid goodbye to Fang Shi.


    At the second uncle¡¯s house, Sang Pingliang and Li Shi sent their eldest daughter out to the entrance of their house numerous of times in hopes that Sang Wan and her group had arrived. However, as they did not, Li Shi turned impatient and vented her anger on the eldest daughter.


    Li Shi was Sang Pingliang¡¯s second wife, and their eldest daughter, who was older than Sang Wan by three full years, was the child of Sang Pingliang¡¯s first wife. However, she was not married into another household. Li Shi reasoned that it was because there was not a suitable household, but what truly was going within her mind, Sang Rou knew it clearly. Though annoyed, she was helpless.


    ¡°They¡¯re here, they¡¯re here! Cousin Sang Wan and cousin-inw, together with Cousin Sang Hong are here!¡± The group had finally emerged; Liu Ya and two other maidservants could be seen carrying gifts of different sizes. Sang Rou immediately brightened up as she ran into the house to pass the news.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi immediately stood on their feet and examined the clothes on their body before looking at each other as if something was amiss. Using a finger to heavily push onto Sang Rou¡¯s forehead, Li Shi scolded, ¡°What Cousin Sang Wan and cousin-inw? Unruly! That is the Shi family¡¯s Sir and Madam! How dare someone of your calibre call them that? Just look at the foolish clothes on you; hurry off back into your room lest you be a disgrace for us all!¡±


    She gave a look of grievance at her biological father before her sightnded onto her step sister, Sang Yan.


    Sang Pingliang couldn¡¯t help but follow the sight of his eldest daughter and looked in the direction of his youngest daughter, only to see that Sang Yan was dressed beautifully from head to toe. Her hairbun, which wasbed neatly and secured with a silver hairpin, was decorated with a silk flower slid into it. She wore a hot pink embroidered coat, a light pink skirt, and an aquamarine blue shoes embroidered with the blooming flowers of the chinese flowering apple. The way she was dressed was more extravagant than one would during the new year. Sang Rou on the other hand wore a in green clothes, dirty and worn out shoes, and her messy hair was tied casually. Together with her timidness, her hunched shoulders and her bowed back; she looked detestable.


    ¡°Just what is wrong with you? Don¡¯t you know that there are important guestsing over today? Sang Pingliang frowned and red at Li Shi.


    Li Shi scorned discreetly but wailed as if she was in the wrong, ¡°Oh my goodness, say that again! Whatever our Ah Yan have, Ah Rou had too! Yesterday, I even made it clear that there are going to be important guestsing over today and instructed them to dress to their best attire lest they be a disgrace to you and to the family! But thisss here didn¡¯t listen and insisted on wearing this, what can I do? She isn¡¯t a child anymore, yet she still needs someone to assist her in the clothes she wears? Do you think that this is the Shi household?¡±


    As she said, she red bitterly at Sang Rou.


    Sang Pingling thought for a moment. Indeed, yesterday night after dinner, his wife did reminded his two daughters upfront and did not hide it from Sang Rou.


    This time around, the steam in him rose again and he frowned at Sang Rou. ¡°You¡¯re not a child anymore, so act like an adult! Did you deliberately wore as such to embarrass your father? What are you standing there for, go back to your room!¡±


    Sang Rou clenched her fists and tears formed in her eyes. She dared not go against her father and though wronged, she agreed and slowly retreated.


    Resentment formed in her delicate heart. Just this early in the morning, she had to gather firewood, clean the pigsty, maintain the vegetable garden, and work in the kitchen. Li Shi gave her no idle time at all. She did indeed have a new set of clothes, but how would she bare to wear them while conducting thosebor-intensive activities? If they were to end up dirtied or torn, her heart would ache and would even receive a scolding from Li Shi! If she were to tell her father about all these, she may never be able to ask for any new clothes anymore in the future!


    As Sang Rou headed back to her room, she heard Li Shi gleefully instructed her younger sister, Sang Yan, ¡°Understood? Remember to serve tea to your cousin Sang Wan and cousin-inw. Remember to be courteous and greet them!¡±


    Sang Rou bit her lips; the hatred in her heart grew.


    ¡°Second Uncle, Second Aunt, are you home?¡± Sang Hong¡¯s voice rang.


    ¡°We are, we are!¡± Sang Pingliang and Li Shi immediately replied as they grinned from ear to ear.


    The old couple hurriedly rushed out to greet and wee the group. Suddenly, Li Shi tugged Sang Pingliang and asked softly, ¡°why did Sang Honge?¡±


    ¡°If he¡¯s here, he¡¯s here!¡± Sang Pingliang replied impatiently.


    Li Shi scorned and voiced her disgust. ¡°It¡¯s isn¡¯t like Ah Wan doesn¡¯t recognize the route here, so what¡¯s he doing here? Such a waste of our good tea!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re already here!¡± Sang Pingliang red at her. ¡°Go, but do not utter a single nonsense!¡±


    ¡°Ah Wan and our son-inw, keke! Come in.e in! We were waiting for all of you! Keke!¡± Sang Pingliang weed them as he grinned. Though he greeted Ah Wan, and son-inw, it seemed that his eyes were fullytched onto Shi Fengju. Seeing the gifts that were carried by Liu Ya and the two other maidservants, his heart fluttered and was at a loss on how to tter Shi Fengju.


    Li Shi¡¯s eyes also glistened. The old resentment she had for Sang Wan immediately disappeared and she held Sang Wan¡¯s hands intimately as she praised, ¡°Our Sang Wan sure is blessed, dressed sovishly just like the richdies from rich families! Seeing you so, your second aunt is at ease! You¡¯re a good child, and didn¡¯t take second aunt¡¯s good treatment towards you in the past for nothing! Come,e, have a seat in our house! Let us bothdies have a good talk, there¡¯s many things your second aunt wants to talk to you about! It¡¯s such a pity that your mother left this world so early. If not for second aunt, who else would be able to apany you to have those heart-to-heart talk?¡±

 Chapter 16

    <h4>Chapter 16</h4>


    Part 1


    ¡°Second Aunt...¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face was stiff, like Shi Fengju not long before, it would¡¯ve been rude to vigorously shake those hands that were holding on to hers off. As such, she was dragged first into the house.


    The corner of her eyes nced in the direction of Shi Fengju, as if praying and giving him a bitter smile. Having experienced once, Shi Fengju immediately avoided the affectionate eyes of Sang Pingliang and looked at Sang Wan. He pursed his lips as if wanting tough, but held back and gave Sang Wan a few nods.


    ¡°Come,e,e, sit, sit!¡± Sang Pingliang urged Shi Fengju and Sang Wan in as he warmly greeted them, and at the same time pushed Sang Hong abruptly to a side. Fortunately, Sang Hong was ustomed to the way the old couple behaves and did not pursue the matter. Quietly, he followed behind.


    ¡°Cousin-inw, Sister Ah San, have some tea!¡± Once seated, Sang Yan shyly served the tea. There were however, only two cups of tea on the tter.


    Seeing so, Liu Ya hastily received the cups and handed one to Shi Fengju and the other to Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes gently swept across the room and found her older brother sitting by the corner of a wall beside a small bench. Sang Wan¡¯s anger boiled; their actions may not have meant much, but what do they take her for?


    ¡°Take this to Brother Sang Hong; I¡¯m not thirsty. Have Brother Sang Hong alsoe and have a seat here!¡± Sang Wan said gently as she cast a nce at Liu Ya.


    ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am!¡± Liu Ya answered crisply before turning and heading towards Sang Hong.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi exchanged nces with one another. As if gaining an enlightenment, they suddenly remembered that Sang Hong also came together with Shi Fengju and Sang Wan!


    ¡°You carelessss. How could you forget about your cousin Sang Hong? Quickly pour a cup of tea for him!¡± Sang Pingliang red at his daughter before turning to smile at Sang Hong, e,e,e my eldest nephew, have a seat! You ah, we¡¯re a family so why do you still need your uncle to invite you to have a seat here? Quicklye!¡±


    ¡°No, no need!¡± Sang Hong hurriedly stood up and frantically waved that invitation away. Hearing how Sang Pingliang crafted those words, Sang Hong felt a little guilty, as if he¡¯d rejected the kindness of his uncle and hurt his uncle¡¯s feelings.


    ¡°Uh, anyway, I¡¯ll be returning first. Enjoy your chat, keke! Second uncle, second aunt,e over to our houseter for lunch. It¡¯s a rare asion for Ah Wan to return, so let us gather together to enjoy!¡± Sang Hong smiled as he bid farewell.


    ¡°That¡¯s true, that¡¯s true! We¡¯re a family! Well, you go your way first, we¡¯ll head over thereter.¡± Sang Pingliang smiled affectionately and nodded.


    Sang Hong nced at Shi Fengju and nodded before leaving, but not without a feeling that he was abandoning the scene and was fleeing back home.


    ¡°Come, Ah Wan, let us go into my room and have our heart to heart conversation! Second Aunt has many words she¡¯d like to speak to you with! It has been a long time since your younger sister had seen you so she too might also want to speak with you!¡± Li Shi smiled as she dragged Sang Wan up.


    Sang Wan could somehow foresee what the vile woman wanted to say. Nothing more than inquiring about the wealth of the Shi family, her treatment in the Shi family, imploring her to never forget her second aunt, and to remember them so on and so forth. Those words, Sang Wan wanted to hear nothing of them! Hearing so would¡¯ve made her feel disgusted.


    ¡°It seems the time isn¡¯t early anymore. Sister-inw might have already prepared the lunch already. It would be best if we have our lunch first, it isn¡¯t toote if those words were to wait after the meal. But we shouldn¡¯t make older brother and sister-inw wait!¡± Sang Wan said softly.


    ¡°That is so, let us go then.¡± Shi Fengju quickly agreed.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi may be able to disy their authoritative power over Sang Wan, but they were powerless in front of Shi Fengju. Instead, any words said by Shi Fengju were like the imperial verdict. Upon hearing so, the two immediately agreed and smiled, ¡°You two go ahead first. We¡¯ll arrive soon after!¡±


    Not forgetting about Sang Yan, she said, ¡°Ah Yan, go and apany your cousin, and talk with her as she heads back. You and your cousin should forge a good rtionship!¡±


    Hiding in the shadows, Sang Rou peeked anxiously. She gazed at Sang Wan helplessly, in hopes that the look of Sang Yan could remind her of her other cousin. So long as Sang Wan raised that question, her stepmother can do nothing to refuse having her to be present for the gathering.


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyebrow raised a little and her lips pursed slightly. Indeed, she was reminded of Sang Rou and was about to ask of her whereabouts. However, she held that back. In the past, she was not close with Sang Rou and well, that was not that good of a person to be with anyway. Still, since this was not her problem, why be nosy?


    Seeing Sang Wan left with a group of others, Sang Rou was disappointed and couldn¡¯t help but give a few points of hate to Sang Wan. She softly cursed to herself and returned quietly back to her room. Thinking reminiscing herte mother, she could not help buty on her bed and weep.


    The moment Sang Wan and the group left, Sang Pingliang and Li Shi began to indulge themselves in the gifts given to them.


    Part 2


    Seeing so many colorful gifts, soft and silky fabric, and gold jewelry, Li Shi grinned from ear to ear. She could not believe what was in front of her, pinching herself to affirm that she was not dreaming. Her hands slowly glided across ayer of the silk fabric.


    ¡°Just look at this gold hairpin, it¡¯s embedded with a gem! Z¨¦z¨¦, the design and the weight of this...this may even be the one and only in this vige! It may probably be better than the one the wife of Vige Head Chen has!¡± Li Shi grinned as she wore the gold hairpin. Going through all the gifts with her hands, she saw a list of gifts and handed it over to Sang Pingliang. ¡°Read it out to me! There¡¯s so many that my eyes might even turn blind from reading them!¡±


    Sang Pingliang cleared his throat and began to read the list out loud. As the gifts got mentioned one by one, Li Shi¡¯s heart gradually did a few flips, and the edges of Sang Pingliang¡¯s mouth rose the more he read.


    Hearing that there was also a hundred silver included among the gifts, the couple flipped through all the gifts in search for it.


    Sang Pingliang cleared his throat and began to read the list out loud. As the gifts got mentioned one by one, Li Shi¡¯s heart gradually did a few flips, and the edges of Sang Pingliang¡¯s mouth rose the more he read.


    Hearing that there was also a hundred silver included among the gifts, the couple flipped through all the gifts in search for it.


    ¡°I¡¯ve found it, it¡¯s here! Aiyo, it¡¯s a banknote ai! Li Shi found a red envelope and opened it before waving it in the air.


    ¡°Give it to me!¡± Sang Pingliang¡¯s eyes glistened and pounced forward to snatch it away. Li Shi involuntarily avoided it.


    ¡°What are you doing? Give that to me!¡± Sang Pingliang red at Li Shi.


    Li Shi was never a pushover but dared not go against her husband. Seeing his face flipped to a nasty one and giving her a re, she reluctantly handed the envelope over.


    Sang Pingliang frantically grabbed it. ¡°I¡¯ll save it up, lest you go around spending it! Also, that jewelry, do not touch them. I¡¯ll have it kept once we returned!¡±


    ¡°This was what my niece gave me!¡± Li Shi refused.


    ¡°If you want a jewelry, just buy it in the vige. It¡¯ll bring a lot of attention if you wear this out. What if you get robbed? And what do you mean by your niece? That is our Sang familyss, she is my niece! Aiai, will you take that pin off quickly! Don¡¯t you have any shame if you were to wear this for lunch?¡± Sang Pingliang said ruthlessly.


    Li Shi felt as if someone had poured cold water on her. Her heart was first joyous, but that joy did notst.


    Her husband was known throughout for a name of hiding all the valuables that he got his hands on. And as for those valuables, they were never to be seen then! How much of those private possessions he had kept, even she does not know. When he was not home, she and her youngest daughter would go around searching numerous times, every corner of the house and even under the bed was unturned, however, not a single valuable could be sighted. These silvers and gold jewelry, she could only crave for them. Surely, there¡¯ll be none for her!


    ¡°Yes ah, she¡¯s your niece!¡± Li Shi sneered and said sourly, ¡°Not sure if she did so to give you face, or because she did it sincerely! Remember that big carriage filled with gifts, all that was brought here were just these little number of gifts. Hei! Even though you¡¯re their elder, our hundred silvers here might be just a small fraction of what Sang Hong and his family have gotten!


    The Sang Pingliang, who was matching the gifts to the list, hesitated for a moment. His heart suddenly felt a little unjust.


    Li Shi was right. He had personally seen thatrge carriage filled with gifts. However, the gifts that are now in this house are just only a fraction of it! And as for those silvers, Sang Hong¡¯s family might have even gotten a thousand of it!


    Sang Pingliang began to feel more and more grudging. ring at Li Shi, he scolded, ¡°And you have the right to say that? Who was it that treated her so badly? If it weren¡¯t for an obstacle like you, she could have treated us better! My good name has been tarnished by you! Be thankful that she¡¯d sent gifts to us! Now roll along to a corner!¡±


    Her heart red. Who would¡¯ve known that such a rich family like the Shi family would have a poorss marry into the family! What¡¯s more, weren¡¯t you the same? Have you ever treated her well? Among all those good words you said, not even half of them were real!


    Li Shi discreetly released her anger, but dared not take back to her husband. ¡°Still, we¡¯re their elders, that fact remains true even if the sky were to fall!¡±


    Sang Pingliang snorted but said nothing. However, deep down, he plotted that once the obstacles are gone, he would go and ask for more from Sang Hong. There are still things he could still gain!


    Sang Pingliang entered his room and hid the jewelry temporarily before heading out with Li Shi to Sang Hong¡¯s house to have lunch.


    There, the dishes were already prepared and served. Fang Shi was coaxing Sang Nuan and Sang Quan to show hospitality to the guests as children are normally not allowed on the table.


    Raising her head to see Sang Pingliang and his wife enter, one with an unsatisfied face and the other with a listless face, she cared not and turned her head and deduced that most of the members had already arrived. Smiling towards them, she said, ¡°Second uncle, Second aunt, you¡¯re here! Quickly, they¡¯re waiting for you inside the house!¡±


    On a normal day, Fang Shi would not speak so gleefully towards those two, and thus, the two had never been able to tame her. However, for her to be smiling towards them, the couple felt extremely unhappy. For sure, if this Fang Shi is acting this way, the family must have received quite a big number of gifts!


    They snorted and entered the house. Fang Shi sneered from behind.


    ¡°Second uncle, second aunt, you¡¯re both here! Quickly, have a seat!¡± Sang Hong hurriedly went to wee them. Shi Fengju and Sang Wan immediately stood from their seat. Sang Yan sighed heavily; there was nothing she and Sang Wan could talk about! Just by sitting right beside her made her feel ufortable.


    ¡°Keke please sit, sit! Sorry to have kept our son-inw waiting!¡± Sang Pingliang said apologetically towards Shi Fengju before smiling.


    With that, everyone took a seat. Seeing the table filled neatly with many dishes from chicken and duck meat, to a pot of good wine, the old couple¡¯s face brightened up a little.


    During the meal, Sang Pingliang hailed Shi Fengju numerous of times, making him feel miserable and awkward. Hurriedly, he worked his fingers with the chopsticks before announcing that he was full and went off to a side to sip tea. Seeing that Shi Fengju had left the table, Shi Pingliang and Li Shi became no longer polite and let their wild stomach loose, eating almost everything left in an instant.

 Chapter 17 (V2): An Honest Man Also Has His Temper

    <h4>Chapter 17 (V2): An Honest Man Also Has His Temper</h4>


    ¡°The day isn¡¯t early and the route back isn¡¯t short. We should head back first! Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li, Big Brother and Sister-inw Fang, take care!¡± After sitting for a short while after lunch, Sang Wan smiled as she informed them.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to hurry; our nephew-inw hasn¡¯t said anything yet!¡± Sang Pingliang was in the midst of thinking how he could be closer with Shi Fengju, but hearing Sang Wan say that they were leaving, he felt extremely unhappy and used his seniority to give Sang Wan a re. Speaking in a grave tone, he spoke sincerely, ¡°My dear niece, being your uncle, it¡¯d be best for me to give you some advice. Now that you¡¯re married, the world does not revolve around you anymore; your husband¡¯s opiniones first! Otherwise, you might end up throwing our Sang family¡¯s face!¡±


    Sang Wan and Fang Shi silently exchanged nces with each other. Both could see the helplessness in each other¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°We should be heading back now. The route back to Qingzhou from here isn¡¯t short. Theter we leave, theter we¡¯ll reach home!¡± Shi Fengju smiled as he strengthened Sang Wan¡¯s position. Giving Sang Wan a nce, he added, ¡°Second Uncle Sang, you¡¯re thinking too much. Sang Wan is a very good wife who is very courteous. My mother likes her a lot!¡±


    The expression on Sang Hong¡¯s face lightened. He smiled slightly and nodded his head.


    Sang Pingliang coughed a few times softly. ¡°Then that¡¯s good! I¡¯m not trying to boast here, but it goes without saying. After all, she is our Sang Wan!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s such a pity that this ended hastily! We couldn¡¯t have much of a conversation!¡± Sang Pingliang sighed. ¡°Next time then! Next time, stay here for a day or two and we¡¯ll get together again, okay?¡±


    Shi Fengju gave a vague smile and agreed softly. Zhan Huan had already prepared the carriages.


    The group left the house. Shi Fengju and Sang Wan boarded the carriage right after bidding them goodbye. The loud noise of the carriages driving away was heard. Before long, the carriage left the vige and made a turn before it was no longer in sight.


    Sang Pingliang let out a deep breath and said, ¡°My oldest nephew.¡± He turned and was about to continue.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to clean up the house. Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li, if there¡¯s nothing else, please leave! My dear husband, could you head over to the field and see whether the fence is still holding out? If not, do some repairs on it!¡± Fang Shi rudely interrupted Sang Pingliang.


    Sang Pingliang red at Fang Shi and scolded, ¡°What¡¯s with that attitude of yours? How can you interrupt your elders when they¡¯re speaking? My oldest nephew is a delicate schr; how can you have him do suchbor work! That¡¯d be a disgrace to the educated ss!¡±


    ¡°The educated ss?¡± Fang Shi smiled strangely. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that being a schr is useless? Instead of holding onto a book, might as well work in the farnd! When did a schr be delicate?¡±


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s face flushed with anger. He turned to Sang Hong and red at him as he scolded, ¡°Look at your wife; just look at what she is saying!¡±


    ¡°What I said was what Second Uncle Sang always says!¡± Fang Shi said while keeping the smile on her face. ¡°Time sure has passed. Second Uncle Sang has indeed aged with a poor memory! To have forgotten about the words that alwayse from your mouth!¡±


    Li Shi could not help but shout, ¡°That was before, and now is now! Things can change!¡±


    ¡°Yes! That¡¯s it!¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see!¡± Fang Shi acted as if she had gained enlightenment. She pped her hands together andughed, ¡°No wonder! In the past, Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li weren¡¯t willing to even take one step into our house, even if we were to invite you both!¡± But now, they were as difficult as flies to chase away!


    As for the second half, Fang Shi did not voice it. But it was quite obvious to Sang Pingliang and Li Shi what she was trying to imply. They were so furious that they became speechless.


    ¡°Ah Xian, that is enough. Invite Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li to talk inside the house!¡± Sang Hong had seen enough.


    Fang Shi became silent. She gave a soft ¡®humph¡¯ and wanted to act as if she had not heard her husband. But in the end, they were the elders. Now that Ah Wan had been married into the Shi family, words might reach the Shi family that the Sang family was having a dispute in public and that the younger generations were disrespectful towards their elders. That may not cause any implications for Fang Shi herself, but it might indirectly affect her second brother-inw, who was still studying, and her two young children.


    Sang Pingliang rolled his eyes and walked into Sang Hong¡¯s house without a word.


    Nanny Xu was still tidying up the ce. Seeing them enter, she spoke with Fang Shi for a while before entering the kitchen to wash the tes.


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang, Second Aunt Li, do you have something that you¡¯d like to speak to me about?¡± Sang Hong smiled politely.


    Sang Pingliang nced at him before gently crossing his arms and walking slowly towards Fang Shi. He then cleared his throat twice.


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang?¡± At a loss, Sang Hong gazed at Sang Pingliang. He was an honest and simple-minded person.


    What a slow-witted person he is! Li Shi rolled her eyes discreetly and forced a smile. ¡°If I may say, my dear nephew-inw, do your second uncle and second aunt not deserve a cup of tea?¡±


    Sang Hong was taken aback and gazed at his wife. ¡°Ah Xian.¡±


    Fang Shi turned without a word. Not long after, she held a cup in her hand as she walked in. Standing in front of Sang Pingliang and Li Shi, she mocked, ¡°Tea leaves are expensive but do not fill the stomach. Our house does not have much money to spare, so we only drink in water! Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li, this should do it! If you wish to have tea, go home and have it!¡±


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi became furious, but there was nothing they could do.


    ¡°That is also the past,¡± Li Shiughed. ¡°Now that your family is affiliated with the Shi family, wealth is just within reach! What I fear is that in the future, your family might not want to drink a cup of tea that costs only a few silvers!¡±


    The moment those wordsnded, and before Fang Shi could throw in another sentence to counter Li Shi, Sang Hong¡¯s face darkened and he chided, ¡°Second Aunt Li, what do you mean by that? Ah Wan marrying into the Shi family was what my father arranged. By not being able to prepare a good dowry as her oldest brother, I¡¯ve let Father and Mother in the heavens down. Now that she is married, we cannot afford to bring to her any troubles!¡±


    Never before had Sang Pingliang and Li Shi seen Sang Hong furious before. The two were suddenly taken aback and felt a little fearful.


    When an honest man bes angry, the impact was greater than that of an ordinary person.


    Fang Shi immediately pursed her lips. She thought about retaliating to Li Shi with ¡°We¡¯re marrying our sister-inw off, not selling her away!¡± but held herself back.


    ¡°Your second aunt didn¡¯t mean much.¡± Sang Pingliang coughed awkwardly and managed a smile on his face. ¡°Why not this; we¡¯re rtives and it ismon for rtives to support each other mutually, such as helping each other out during times of need, sharing glory or loss as a whole. Should it not be the case?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, that was what I meant! The Shi family is wealthy anyway, wealthier than us! If ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li!¡± Sang Hong snapped, ¡°The Sang family is the Sang family, and the Shi family is the Shi family. Ah Wan has just entered the Shi family; though we do not have the ability to be much of a support for her, we should never trouble her! For the sake of my dead parents, I hope Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li will be more understandable! Otherwise, don¡¯t me your nephew for being blunt!¡±


    Sang Hong red in their direction. His two cold eyes stared into their eyes, making the old couple shudder. Fang Shi, who was witnessing her husband from the side, could not help but look at him in admiration for this was the first time she had ever seen this side of him.


    Sang Pingliang could not help but feel annoyed, but under Sang Hong¡¯s cold pressure, he was not able to utter a single word.


    Sang Hong was well-known among many of the viges for being an honest man and his words were solid evidence. As such, no one had disbelieved the words he said. Never had he confronted anyone, and if a case ever happened, everyone knew that it would be the other party that was in the wrong. Although Sang Pingliang thirsted for wealth, he dared not risk going against Sang Hong face to face. He believed that if he ever went to seek Sang Wan, only God knows what Sang Hong might do!


    An honest person also has a side that was extremely frightening.


    ¡°I, I was just speaking my mind, there¡¯s no need to get so agitated! I¡¯m an elder, I cannot bring myself to ask her. However, you¡¯re Ah Wan¡¯s oldest brother! If there everes a time that you need her help, you¡¯d still need to seek her out right?¡± Sang Pingliang stammered as he spoke.


    Sang Hong¡¯s anger subsided. He stood and held his hands together before apologizing, ¡°I was irrational just then. May uncle forgive me.¡±


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s face also eased a little, and he gently waved as he spoke, ¡°Enough. When have I ever quarreled with you? We¡¯re a family, and I¡¯m sure you¡¯re doing so for Ah Wan¡¯s good!¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s true! We¡¯re not unreasonable!¡± Li Shi added. Her eyes turned a little and she faked a smile. ¡°Well, back to topic. The valuable gifts that Ah Wan brought today might be enough tost your family through the rest of your lives!¡±


    Herees the main topic! Fang Shi sneered quietly.


    Sang Hong answered, ¡°That is Ah Wan and the Shi family¡¯s goodwill. As for how many there are, I¡¯ve not checked.¡±


    ¡°A carriage full of gifts. My dear eldest nephew, shouldn¡¯t you share some with us? Your two other cousins have to have their dowry prepared someday! We¡¯re a family, shouldn¡¯t you consider us as well?¡± As Li Shi spoke, Sang Pingliang looked sidelong at Sang Hong.


    Fang Shi was so furious that she almostughed. As their father and mother, it is their duty to marry off their daughters and not ours to bear! They surely are trying too hard!


    Sang Hong understood their reasoning. He thought about his two cousins, especially Sang Rou, who was older than Sang Wan but still unmarried. If that were to continue, she might even end up alone and be a bachelorette; that¡¯d be too pitiful!


    Seeing Sang Hong¡¯s expression, Fang Shi immediately knew what he wanted to say. Sensing impending danger, she snatched the opportunity to speak. ¡°We do care for our two cousins, and when the day they get marriedes, we¡¯ll have to send our wedding gifts to them! Every house has its own difficulties, and I¡¯m sure Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li knows. On the eighth month, our second brother has to take the township exam. If he passes, he¡¯ll be to the capital city for another exam. The expenses for that aren¡¯t small! He has to purchase new clothes, books and ink, the additional sses that he participates in asionally, and the gifts he brings when visiting his seniors for guidance; all of those will cost money! The Double Fifth Festival is alsoing up soon, and ording to the customs, we¡¯ll have to send gifts to the Shi family. The gifts Sang Wan sent to us might have to be exchanged into silvers for us to do so! If the amount we send were to be little, Ah Wan might be a joke in the family! After the New Year, Ah Wan wille back for her homing; for that, we¡¯ll have to prepare her New Year gift in advance! My two children will soon also grow up. One will be studying, and for the other, a dowry will have to be prepared! Just think about it, money has to be used in every aspect! This worries me a lot!¡±


    Fang Shi listed everything clearly, startling Sang Pingliang and Li Shi, leaving them at a loss for words. Even Sang Hong, who had wanted to speak, hesitated.


    ¡°You sure have a way with your mouth, but don¡¯t you think you¡¯re exaggerating too much? In the end, what you meant to say is that you don¡¯t want to share any with us! Fancy you, using such a big excuse!¡± Li Shi snorted.


    Fang Shi sneered discreetly. It seemed that the greed in a human heart can never be satisfied. Ah Wan had not gone to their house empty-handed, but it seemed as if they had forgotten all about it!

 Chapter 18 (V2): The Best Gifts Are Not Fit For Them

    <h4>Chapter 18 (V2): The Best Gifts Are Not Fit For Them</h4>


    Sang Pingliang grunted. ¡°Enough, enough. Save your breath! It¡¯s because we were hopeless, caring for our own family instead of helping others! It is understandable that they won¡¯t see us as their elders!¡±1


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang has gotten the wrong idea!¡± Feeling disturbed, Sang Hong added, ¡°The things are still here. Why don¡¯t Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li take a look, and then ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes. That¡¯ll do!¡± Li Shi immediately grinned and agreed, cutting Sang Hong off. As she stood up, she said, ¡°I knew that our oldest nephew is the most filial and the most respectful towards the elders, unlike that meandy over there!¡±


    Fang Shi looked at her husband in dissatisfaction. But seeing that Li Shi had already stepped into the room, she had no choice but to follow. Since the man has already spoken, let¡¯s see what will be taken away!


    The four entered the room. Seeing the heap of gifts, the old couple¡¯s eyes instantly glistened. Fang Shi took out a list and stepped forward. While viewing the list asionally, she gathered a pile of gifts and put them in a corner. ¡°These are for Second Brother which we have no control of. As such, they cannot be taken!¡±


    Right after, she picked up a pair of gold hairpins, rolled fabric, and two pieces of head cloth before calling for Nanny Xu to receive the gifts on the spot. ¡°My sister-inw said to give you these as thanks for taking care of her since she was little. These are for you!¡±


    Nanny Xu received the gifts gleefully before returning to tidying up the house.


    ¡°These few rolls of fabric and a set of schr¡¯s treasures, together with the two gold nes, are for Xiao Quan and Xiao Nuan!¡± Fang Shi picked up the gifts before saying in dissatisfaction, ¡°That is all. Second Uncle and Second Aunt, you may take whatever you deem! Oh and I almost forgot, the two hundred silvers have to be left for our second brother¡¯s exams and to purchase the gifts that have to be sent during the Double Fifth Festival!¡±


    Seeing Fang Shi take a numerous number of gifts away, Sang Pingliang and Li Shi could not help but feel a heartache. What she had said was reasonable, and thus the old couple could not object. In the end, the two picked four pairs of rolled fabric and a pair of gold bracelets, a pack of bird¡¯s nest, and two pots of fine wine. Carrying those gifts as they left, Sang Pingliang suddenly turned back and questioned Fang Shi. ¡°Did Sang Wang only give two hundred silvers?¡±


    Fang Shi¡¯s face was already dark and unhappy as she stood at the side. Hearing him, she sneered, ¡°If Second Uncle Sang doesn¡¯t believe me, why not have a look?¡±


    Sang Pingliang grinned. Holding the two pots of wine firmly and putting a few of the rolled fabrics underneath his arms, he gleefully left.


    ¡°Oh yes,¡± Li Shi smiled, ¡°There were still many dishes left which will be wasted if your family isn¡¯t able to finish them! I¡¯lle byter to take some of them away.¡±


    ¡°Oh! Thank you so much, Second Aunt Li!¡± Fang Shi smiled coldly.


    Seeing that the two had finally left, Fang Shi heaved a long sigh of relief. Raising her hand, she undid the knot nearest to her cor. She felt extremely stuffy inside her clothes!


    ¡°Ah Xian, they are our elders, regardless...¡± Sang Hong pulled his wife¡¯s hand and forced a smile.


    ¡°I know! I know!¡± Fang Shi said unhappily. ¡°Elders, hmph! I¡¯ve never seen them act like elders anyway! Still, now is different from the past; you¡¯ll have to keep an eye on them. What if one day, their hearts were hardened by pig oil and they run straight to the Shi family? That would harm our Ah Wan!¡±


    ¡°I will!¡± Sang Hong answered firmly. Such a thing, Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Li wouldn¡¯t act rashly, right?


    Fang Shi kept silent and went to put the gifts away. She unconsciously went to touch the pocket of her skirt. In it were three hundred silvers worth of banknote and a pair of bracelets iid with pearls given by Sang Wan but not included in the gift list.


    On the route back, in the carriage, Sang Wan leaned her head to the side in silence. What had happened today was so embarrassing!


    The more she thought about it, the more she felt that the life her oldest brother and sister-inw had lived thesest few years hadn¡¯t been easy. No wonder sister-inw was hot-tempered and spoke sarcastically. To have such an unreliable uncle and aunt was simply intolerable!


    But luckily, the scene from the homing in the past did not reproduce itself here. Big Brother and Sister-inw Fang were still themselves! As for her, she had not been embarrassed in front of the Shi servants and be the joke of the Shi family. Zhan Huan and the rest of the servants were Shi Fengju¡¯s trusted servants and when taking care of the outer courtyard, Li Yan and Song He were strict with their mouths. Still, Sang Wan hoped that whatever had happened today in her home would not spread wings in the Shi family.


    That being said, one must know that Gu Fangzi was like a predator, waiting to pounce at any mistakes Sang Wan made and to exploit them.


    Though she had no intention to lift her gaze to look at Shi Fengju, he too had somehow seemed to look at her. As such, their gazes met and Shi Fengjuughed at her.


    Sang Wan at this moment was feeling frustrated and disturbed, and seeing Shi Fengju smiling made her ufortable. Her eyes turned red and she lowered her head before sighing, ¡°If you want tough, go ahead andugh! What happened today was something you did not expect, right? Whatever the case, they¡¯re my elders. For the unpleasant actions that they did, I hope you¡¯ll not take them to heart!¡±


    Shi Fengju was taken aback and felt a little sorry for her. Hurriedly, he tried tofort her. ¡°I did not mean tough at you; you¡¯re just thinking too much!¡±


    I don¡¯t believe you! Sang Wan raised her head and looked at him as if trying to convey the words through her eyes. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Shi Fengju nodded earnestly and sighed. ¡°These years must not have been easy for you.¡±


    Sang Wan hesitated before shaking her head. ¡°My oldest brother and sister-inw, and my second brother too, they care a lot for me! I care not for those who gossip about us.¡± Never take the words from Second Aunt Li¡¯s mouth seriously unless one has a long life!


    Shi Fengju smiled and suddenly said, ¡°Still, don¡¯t belittle me... my cousin¡¯s father, in other words, my uncle,pared to your second uncle... Keke!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s brow rose in curiosity. Gu Fangzi¡¯s father? Sang Wan only knew that Gu Fangzi¡¯s mother was her mother-inw¡¯s younger sister, who had passed away. As for her father, Sang Wan was not familiar with him.


    ¡°So, don¡¯t you worry. What happened today will not be spoken of by anyone when we return.¡±


    Sang Wan nodded and smiled, embarrassed.


    It was already night when they arrived back in the Shi household. The two went to the courtyard to greet Wang Shi. However, as Wang Shi was not present, the two instructed a servant to inform her before they returned back to their chambers.


    The night passed quietly.


    Shi Fengju left early in the morning the next day. Sang Wan washed up before rushing off to greet and serve Wang Shi.


    Three days had passed and she was now considered a member of the Shi family; she was now no longer considered new. As a daughter-inw, it was her duty to serve her mother-inw. As such, she dared not be careless.


    When Sang Wan arrived, Wang Shi had just woken up not long ago and was having tea. Sang Wan hastily walked up to Wang Shi and greeted her.


    ¡°Enough. No need for the ceremony!¡± Wang Shi grinned and waved her hand before adding, ¡°Have you had your breakfast?¡±


    ¡°Understood. Mother-inw, please enjoy your breakfast; your daughter-inw will have itter!¡± Sang Wan smiled as she spoke.


    ¡°Save the trouble, have it with me then! How was the homing yesterday? Is everything alright there?¡± Wang Shi ced the cup of tea on the table before asking casually.


    ¡°Thank you, Mother-inw, for the concern! Everything¡¯s alright back at my parental home. Big Brother and Sister-inw Fang are also well!¡± Sang Wang answered almost immediately and smiled as she helped Wang Shi up. Together, they headed to the side hall to have breakfast. Sang Wan thought secretly to herself; for her mother-inw to treat her so well all of a sudden, she must have something she wanted to say.


    Wang Shi nodded gently and went on to have a casual talk with her daughter-inw. As the two sat, Wang Shi instructed Xiu Li and Xiu Chun to attend to them so that Sang Wan need not serve her, but instead have breakfast with her. Sang Wan immediately gave her thanks.


    After having breakfast, Wang Shi gestured to Sang Wan and smiled. ¡°Come, follow me to the parlor and have tea to help with digestion!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother-inw.¡± Sang Wan answered quickly, and again helped her mother-inw up and to the parlor.


    A maidservant served them tea. Sang Wan received hers and took a sip before hearing Wang Shi ask her, ¡°How¡¯s the taste of the tea?¡±


    ¡°Naturally, it¡¯s good. The color of the tea, its fragrance, and the taste, it¡¯s all brilliant.¡± Sang Wan hurriedly gave a smile as she spoke.


    Wang Shiughed, ¡°This three vor tea was something that I began drinkingst year. At that time, my spleen and stomach felt ufortable. It was Gu Fangzi; thatss who discovered this tea, saying that it will help to nourish the spleen and stomach and is also good for the body. After that, I kept drinking the tea, and it has be a habit to drink it!¡±


    Hearing Wang Shi praised Gu Fangzi, Sang Wan¡¯s hands tightened and her heart stiffened. However, she smiled nevertheless and spoke, ¡°That is because Cousin Fangzi is filial. Mother-inw¡¯s good treatment was not in vain!¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that just so!¡± Wang Shi nodded and added, ¡°If I must say, Fangzi is more intimate with me than my own daughter! Her temper is good; she is polite, meticulous, and does not harbor any ill-intentions! I feel blessed with her by my side. For these past two or three years, she has managed the household quite well. Without her, it might have be a disaster!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart felt a little bitter. Her tongue felt extremely heavy with nothing to reply to Wang Shi. In the end, all she could manage was a ¡®Yes¡¯ before forcing a smile.


    ¡°Sang Wan, ah,¡± Wang Shi finally spoke after some time, ¡°You¡¯ve just entered the Shi family not long ago and you aren¡¯t familiar with the family affairs. Still, if I may say, the Shi family and the Sang family are different; there are many things you do not know. Learning the ropes isn¡¯t easy, so I feel that the affairs should still be handled by Gu Fangzi. What do you say?¡±


    ¡°The management of the house is naturally up to Mother-inw to decide!¡± Wang Shi immediately stared at Sang Wan. Sang Wan spoke without hesitation, which would, of course, result in her being stared at by her mother-inw.


    ¡°En! It¡¯s good if you think that way!¡± Wang Shi spoke with satisfaction, before nodding and smiling. ¡°It seems that I was not mistaken to have you married into the family; you truly are a sensible child! But rest assured, you are Fengju¡¯s wife. No one else is of a higher position than you! As a daughter-inw, one should know when to retreat and when to not! Fangzi will take care of the troublesome things, and you can just live with peace of mind. Take care of your body and may you bear the heir of the family! And since we¡¯re on the topic, you should also give thanks to her!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Mother-inw.¡± Sang Wan smiled gently. ¡°The family affairs aren¡¯t easy; nor are they small. As I¡¯ll be troubling Cousin Fangzi, I¡¯d better give her my thanks!¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s it!¡± The more Wang Shi heard, the happier she was.


    ¡°However, your daughter-inw would like to add to it. Everything else is fine; it¡¯s just that I would not like to trouble Cousin Fangzi with Ning Garden. Mother-inw, what do you think?¡± Sang Wan spoke while keeping a gentle smile on her face.


    She would not be able to fight for the management of the household affairs as she did not have the experience for it. However, Ning Garden was different. That would be the ce where she¡¯ll often be. It wasn¡¯t reasonable to have Gu Fangzi intervene, or she wouldn¡¯t be able to sleep or eat with any peace of mind.


    Wang Shi was slightly puzzled but nodded andughed. ¡°That is true. Ning Garden shall be managed by you then!¡± Letting Gu Fangzi manage too many things wouldn¡¯t be reasonable for her.


    ¡°Yes. Your daughter-inw gives her thanks!¡± Sang Wan stood and said her thanks.


    Since her purpose had beenpleted, Wang Shi did not need Sang Wan to stay and apany her. Gesturing with her hand, she spoke, ¡°Enough, you should head back now! Do what you need to do as I have no need for you to serve me! Oh, and in the future, no need toe and greet me so early in the morning! Maybe two hourster will be fine!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s mother-inw had passed away at an early age, but during the time when she had been alive, she had a gentle temperament and disliked ordering people around. Wang Shi, as a result, had not experienced the hardships of being a daughter-inw under the mercy of her mother-inw. As such, she did not have the mind nor interest to impose strict orders on her own daughter-inw.

 Chapter 19 (V2): Insatiable

    <h4>Chapter 19 (V2): Insatiable</h4>


    In contrast, Wang Shi did so because she did not want her daughter-inw to be by her side at all times else she would feel ufortable. After all, with her servants serving her, she could do whatever she wishes without reservations and not having to always exert her seniority!


    While on the topic, the position of an elder in the Shi family sure was difficult and tiring to hold.


    Sang Wan was slightly surprised. It seemed that her mother-inw truly disliked having her daughter-inw serve her and it had not been an act in her past life when her mother-inw had been wholly displeased with her. At this moment, Sang Wan finally understood.


    ¡°Yes, your daughter-inw shall head back now!¡± Sang Wan bowed before retiring. But as she did so, she raised her head and smiled gently and added, ¡°Mother-inw, have someone call for me whenever you feel listless. Your daughter-inw shall help dispel that listlessness!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Feeling cared for, Wang Shi grinned and nodded.


    ¡°Nanny Jiang, what do you think of my daughter-inw?¡± After seeing Sang Wan leave, Wang Shi satfortably on the couch before asking Nanny Jiang.


    ¡°This old servant thinks that she¡¯s not bad! Old Master¡¯s arrangement for the marriage was right; Old Mistress, you¡¯re truly blessed!¡± Nanny Jiang smiled as she praised.


    ¡°That is true! I can¡¯t bear to say this but I have to admit, a member of a schr family sure is different! Truly a blessing to have!¡± Wang Shi smiled but suddenly began to sigh. ¡°Both are good; both aren¡¯t bad, eh, not bad...¡±


    ¡°Go, take a look at what my niece is doing and invite her here!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s brow rose and she instructed a young maidservant while feeling slightly satisfied with herself.


    Gu Fangzi had been waiting in the Peony Park restlessly. Upon hearing that her aunt had summoned her, she briskly went over. Arriving at the courtyard, Gu Fangzi stopped in her tracks. Adjusting her expression, clothes, andplexion, she entered the parlor gracefully.


    ¡°Aunt ¡ª¡±


    ¡°Come! Come! Have a seat! We¡¯re a family so there¡¯s no need for the ceremony!¡± Wang Shi cut the greeting short and gestured with a smile.


    Gu Fangzi smiled and agreed before sitting next to Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi held Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand and spoke, ¡°I¡¯ve spoken to Sang Wan; the management of the household will remain in your care. Sang Wan has no objections! In the future, I¡¯ll leave them to you! Aunt trusts in the way you manage the household!¡±


    ¡°That ¡ª¡± The edges of Gu Fangzi¡¯s lips unconsciously curled up in a grin. Though her appearance was like a beautiful flower and her heart as sweet as nectar, her mouth questioned, doubtingly, ¡°That isn¡¯t good, right? After all, she¡¯s the young mistress of this household... is she really alright with this arrangement?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Wang Shi smiled. ¡°Though your aunt may be old and is no longer managing this household, my words still contain power and are the final say! Since she has agreed to it, it means that she has fully epted it! In the future, other than the vicinities of Ning Garden, everything will be managed by you. I hope that your management won¡¯t disappoint me.¡±


    ¡°Ning Garden?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s smiling face stiffened slightly.


    ¡°Yes. Ning Garden is where she lives, so that ce is naturally given to her to care for. Also, that¡¯s to save you from embarrassment. What¡¯s important now is that you do not act out of line.¡± Without knowing, Wang Shi had gotten closer to Gu Fangzi and spoken with an intimate voice. This showed that she cared for Gu Fangzi as if she was part of Wang Shi¡¯s immediate family.


    Gu Fangzi nodded gently before agreeing softly. Smiling, she spoke, ¡°Aunt truly is considerate towards me! Maybe more intimate whenpared to my own biological mother!¡±


    Deep down, she could not help but feel slightly frustrated. Ning Garden might be where Sang Wan lived, but her cousin also lived there. She had originally wanted to put all her focus on Ning Garden and obtain information about her cousin¡¯s whereabouts. But because of a sentence from her aunt, that n had shattered into pieces!


    But wait a moment! Gu Fangzi was suddenly struck by a thought: Aunt Wang is used to being idle now, soing up with such an idea should not be possible. This must have been thought of by that vile woman, Sang Wan! Well, I can affirm my guess just by asking a maidservant who was present during their conversation. If that were so, that vile woman sure is clever!


    ¡°Your biological mother is my biological younger sister. Doesn¡¯t that make you just like a daughter to me? Silly child!¡± Wang Shi smiled and nced at Gu Fangzi intimately.


    Gu Fangzi forced a smile in return. The word ¡®daughter¡¯ made her felt somewhat ufortable; what she¡¯d wanted wasn¡¯t to be her aunt¡¯s daughter, but her daughter-inw!


    ¡°Aunt, I¡¯ve something I¡¯d like to say, but I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s proper. If what I say offends you, I hope you¡¯ll not take it to heart!¡±


    ¡°Keke, your words are always reasonable. When have you ever said anything improper? Speak! Your aunt will listen!¡±


    Gu Fangzi then let out augh. ¡°Although Aunt values me, and Cousin Sang Wan has no objections, Big Cousin already has a wife! If I were to still be the one managing the household, then isn¡¯t that illogical? What I fear is that the servants may not obey me, I¡ª I might end up disappointing Aunt Wang!¡± Looking at Wang Shi pitifully, Gu Fangzi¡¯s voice gradually softened.


    As if that thought had nevere to her, Wang Shi¡¯s face immediately darkened. But soon after, she groaned, ¡°Let¡¯s see who will dare to do so! This is the Shi family household and those on the sidelines have no say! If anyone ever bickers with you over this, I¡¯ll show them what I¡¯m capable of!¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t have that! To have Aunt Wang make an appearance over such a small matter, it would all the more portray me as being unfilial! Still, I¡¯m not the young mistress of this house, so they cannot be med for not obeying me! Though Aunt Wang¡¯s words against those unruly servants are effective, their hearts may not be intimidated and they may even go around gossiping. I¡¯m afraid Aunt Wang might even be pulled into it!¡±


    In that moment, Wang Shi was brought back to her senses. Gloomily, she nodded gently and agreed. ¡°What you say truly is reasonable! If only you had married into the family first, then this wouldn¡¯t happen!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s face was flushed and she lowered her head in embarrassment. Hurriedly, she replied, ¡°I, I wasn¡¯t trying to imply that, really! I just didn¡¯t want others to cause chaos in the household, but what I said seems to have directed to another path! Still, Cousin Sang Wan was just recently married into the family; if I were to do so¡ª wouldn¡¯t Cousin Sang Wan be humiliated? Her future here may, as a result, be awkward!¡±


    After hearing the words Gu Fangzi wanted to say, Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but feel a little apologetic towards Sang Wan, for she was a sensible daughter-inw. However, being aware of the fact that she was sensible, Wang Shi spoke, ¡°Why would she be awkward in the Shi family? She is the wife of Fengju; who dares embarrass her? Unless she is ipetent, saying that she¡¯ll be humiliated isn¡¯t right! If I may add, which young master has never had any concubines? It is already considered good that our Fengju never had any before the marriage! From every aspect, we¡¯ve given her face!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was secretly delighted. But on the surface, she spoke hesitantly, ¡°That, I¡¯m afraid that might ¡ª¡±


    ¡°Enough, enough! I call the shots on this! No need for your care! When Fengju returns, I¡¯ll inform him regarding the arrangement! As for you, just wait for the good news! Keke!¡± Wang Shi nced at Gu Fangzi. Seeing that she was hesitant, Wang Shi deliberately said, disappointed, ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Do you have an objection?¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang!¡± Gu Fangzi unconsciously stood up and said bashfully, ¡°We¡¯ve spoken enough. I, I have things to attend to so I¡¯ll head off first!¡±


    ¡°Go then!¡± Wang Shi said with a big grin andughed. In the midst of theughter, Gu Fangzi turned and left.


    Sang Wan was in deep thought as she returned to Ning Garden. She was puzzled as to why her mother-inw had even begun the conversation with her in the first ce.


    Recalling what had happened carefully in the three days since she had stepped foot in the household, there had not seemed to be any breach of etiquette. As such, her mother-inw should not have had any reason to sweep the floor with her face.


    If so, what had truly happened?


    In the evening, when no one was around, Liu Ya informed Sang Wan of what information she had managed to gather from the kitchen. From there, Sang Wan understood. It seemed that yesterday when Shi Fengju had followed her back to her paternal home, two servants of the household had been in the wrong and were punished by Gu Fangzi in the courtyard.


    Unhappy, the two hadined behind Gu Fangzi¡¯s back, saying that the household now had a young mistress, so an outsider like her should not be arrogant. To actually have said that to someone who was considered part of the family!


    Gu Fangzi had gotten wind of it. Feeling wronged, she returned to her chamber and let her tears flow. Sometimeter, Wang Shi got wind of it too. Furious, she sentenced the two servants to twenty hits from arge board and sent them to the outer courtyard to do intensive manualbor. Wang Shi had even gone tofort Gu Fangzi personally.


    No wonder! Sang Wan nodded slightly. No wonder her mother-inw had been in such a hurry to have that conversation with her. It was all to provide support for Gu Fangzi!


    Sang Wan sighed. In her past life, Gu Fangzi taking control of the management had been a matter of course, and that was the beginning of her nightmares in the household! But who would¡¯ve thought that in this life, she had not been able to change it! In the end, the result was still the same.


    Sang Wan stiffened her heart. Since things had ended up the way they were now, then so be it. What she feared now was Gu Fangzi¡¯s resilience. If Gu Fangzi were to marry into the family, how would Sang Wan continue to survive? Still, she believed that she could cling onto the hope that Shi Fengju would not go back on their promise! Her presence in the household was still light and simply not enough to create a change.


    It seemed that what Sang Wan had expected became truth. Being led by Gu Fangzi, Wang Shi conveyed the idea to Shi Fengju.


    ¡°You and Fangzi grew up together and have known each other well. Since this is something that would have happened sooner orter, having her marry into the family soon shouldn¡¯t be too much of a problem. What do you say?¡± Wang Shi grinned, her face expressing her interest in the idea since her son also liked his cousin!


    Shi Fengju smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Mother, I¡¯ve just returned home and was called here immediately by you just to discuss this?¡± What¡¯s there to hurry about regarding my marriage with Fang¡¯er?


    ¡°Then what else did you think I¡¯ll be discussing with you?¡± Wang Shi waited no longer for her son to express his joy; the sight of her son not being pleased with the idea was actually very surprising to her.


    ring at Shi Fengju, she added, ¡°Fangzi is no longer young; shouldn¡¯t you be more considerate towards her? From what I see, Daughter-inw Sang Wan isn¡¯t unreasonable; I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll agree! Fangzi will first marry into the family as a concubine. Once she bears a son, her position will naturally be elevated. When that happens, we¡¯ll hold avish wedding! With that, we¡¯ve actually given Sang Wan enough face!¡±


    ¡°Mother, is this what you think, or¡ª is this Fangzi¡¯s idea?¡± Shi Fengju paused, before blurting out.


    ¡°What difference does it make?¡± Wang Shi frowned. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do you not wish for this to happen? My son, you shouldn¡¯t do something that will betray your heart and cause unhappiness to those around you! Sang Wan is virtuous and gentle in temperament, Fangzi is clever and capable; I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be able to get along well. That, my son, is also your blessing!¡±


    ¡°I have my own thoughts regarding this, so there¡¯s no need for you to worry, Mother.¡± Shi Fengju frowned. A year... he could wait a year and he believed that Gu Fangzi could too! He wanted to give his most beloved woman a grand andplete wedding, so how was that wrong? Why make her suffer now?


    ¡°Rubbish!¡± Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but be furious. She grunted, ¡°If not me, who then would worry about her? This isn¡¯t something that you alone have the final say with. I do not want that child, Fangzi, to be upset! Though you may be able to bear it, I can¡¯t!¡± With that, she spoke of the incident that had happened to Gu Fangzi yesterday and added, ¡°What do you say now; can this still wait?¡±

 Chapter 20 (V2): Distrust

    <h4>Chapter 20 (V2): Distrust</h4>


    Shi Fengju spoke patiently. ¡°Mother, the servants are garrulous but unknowledgeable. What¡¯s there to fuss over about? Just throw the noisy ones out and the problem will be solved! We can always employ more to rece those who are thrown! Gu Fangzi isn¡¯t so petty; I¡¯m sure she wouldn¡¯t take that incident to heart!¡±


    Whichrge household did not have unruly servants? Only a pond with no fish is a pond that¡¯s clean. How could Mother not understand such a simple principle? Busy enough having to look after heaven and earth, who had the time to look after the mouth of humans?


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Wang Shi scolded. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that gossips are powerful weapons? Or do you not intend to marry Gu Fangzi?¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu!¡± Nanny Jiang spotted Gu Fangzi standing at the entrance with her eyes wide open.


    The quarrel between mother and son immediately paused. They immediately looked in the direction of the entrance, only to see Gu Fangzi¡¯s pale and sorrowful face as she choked on her tears and ran.


    ¡°That... when did shee?¡± Wang Shi looked at Nanny Jiang.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know!¡± Nanny Jiang hurriedly replied in remorse.


    Wang Shi could not help but feel anxious. ¡°This is bad, she must have heard our conversation! What should we do? That child is already pitiful, yet this¡ª all because of you!¡± Wang Shi red at her son.


    ¡°Mother, no need to feel anxious. I¡¯ll find and exin everything to her. So Mother, do not interfere in this!¡± Once he spoke, Shi Fengju hurried out.


    In a pavilion of Peony Park, Gu Fangzi quietly let her tears flow. Her slender shoulders trembled slightly and she would sniffle once in a while. Clearly, she was pitiful.


    Hearing the footsteps behind her, Gu Fangzi became motionless for a moment before slowly sitting up straight. With her back facing the man who was rushing towards her, she quickly wiped the tears off her face. She tidied herself up and slid away her hair that was sticking to her face before casting a nce behind her. It was Shi Fengju. She immediately lowered her head, ¡°Big Cousin.¡±


    Seeing her teary swollen red eyes and her face wet with tears, she was like a beautiful flower under the rain, both lovely and pitiful. His heart immediately softened.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er!¡± Shi Fengju patted her back gently. ¡°Don¡¯t cry!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sniffled loudly but did not respond to his words. Her body involuntarily leaned away from his hand.


    He does not wish to have me married into the family; he does not wish so!


    She had never thought that he would bluntly refuse her! She had only worried about her aunt. But now it seemed that it was not her aunt who was actually refusing her, but him!


    That was uneptable! His attitude was like a sharp knife, piercing mercilessly at her heart.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, don¡¯t be like that!¡± Shi Fengju smiled bitterly.


    ¡°Why did you not agree? You...¡± Gu Fangzi raised her head and looked tearfully into Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes. ¡°Do you not want me anymore?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that!¡± rmed, Shi Fengju immediately pulled her into his arms. ¡°Fang¡¯er, have you forgotten the words I said to you before? I said that I would never betray you!¡±


    ¡°But you refused in front of Aunt Wang! You should know that my heart only has¡ª Big Cousin, you can¡¯t do this to me. My heart hurts; it hurts a lot!¡± Gu Fangzi could not help but once again let her tears flow down her cheeks.


    Those were tears filled with humiliation.


    ¡°My feelings for you have never changed. Believe in me, Fang¡¯er!¡± Shi Fengju increased the seriousness in his tone. ¡°And the words I said to you before will also never change; you have to believe in me!¡±


    All Gu Fangzi could feel from those words was a thickyer of satire. The fury in her heart rose to the doors of her mind. She sneered at Shi Fengju. ¡°Believe? How do you want me to believe in you? Before Sang Wan married into the family, you couldn¡¯t bear to hear even her name being mentioned in the household, and during the day of the marriage, your face showed no sign of happiness! At that time, I¡¯m sure you know that I was feeling both happy and upset. Upset because the one marrying you wasn¡¯t me; happy because your feelings for me were evident! But now? You don¡¯t seem to even wish to have me married into the family! Why? You¡¯re worried that she might suffer humiliation? In just the short timespan of three days, you¡¯ve forgotten all about me and the one who¡¯s taken my spot in your heart instead is her? For you, I was willing to be a concubine, but just what do you want? Your words say you would never betray me, but just from your actions alone, you have already betrayed me!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart felt hurt and was in a disorder; he was all of a sudden taken aback by her words.¡±Fang¡¯er, you don¡¯t believe in me?¡±


    ¡°The evidence is allid openly, how do you want me to believe in you?¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes darkened. He could not help but feel disappointed. His tone became rough. ¡°What you think may not be true. So long as you believe in me, you¡¯ll understand that my feelings for you have never changed!¡±


    Seeing that he was unwilling to repent and was pushing all the me onto herself for making a fuss, sheughed coldly. ¡°Is that so? Then exin to me how I¡¯m wrong! Big Cousin, you¡¯ve never lied to me before, but just because of Sang Wan, who has just entered into the family for no longer than three days, you throw out those words to fool me. Though I may not be from a schrly family and knowledgeable, I am not a fool to believe in whatever I hear!¡±


    With that said, she lowered her head again and wiped the tears off her face before letting out another wave of tears.


    Shi Fengju was startled. He felt as if ayer of ice had covered his heart and he stared at the person in front of him in disbelief. He suddenly had the feeling that the person in front of him was suddenly unfamiliar like there was ayer between them that made him unable to hear her clearly.


    He had grown up together with her, ever since they were young. With no suspicions towards each other, they were not strangers. He had already said so, yet she did not believe him? Or did she think that he was like the rest, who yed around with others?


    If so, what was all his perseverance and suffering for? Shi Fengju suddenly felt tired.


    If he had told her before about the agreement he had with Sang Wan, then she would not be feeling the way she was now.


    But now, if he were to tell her about it, she would definitely not believe him! Worse, she might be even more furious and assume that he was lying to her! Surely, she would think that she was a woman that can be easily deceived!


    Gu Fangzi had wanted to quarrel with Shi Fengju until the end; all that hard work she had put in, the umted efforts, how could she just let them all go? All she wanted was for Shi Fengju to ept her, to not be able to live without her and to have him look strongly upon her.


    In the past, so long as she had cried with grievances, Shi Fengju would step in to coax her until her teary face changed into a smiling one.


    But now, even though she had already cried for some time already, all he did was stand foolishly while staring at her.


    The anger in her heart burned stronger than before. She was sure that his feelings for her had definitely changed. That anger broke through the barriers of her head; she pushed away from Shi Fengju and cried, ¡°What are you staring at the helpless me for! Go away; return to your Ning Garden where she¡¯s waiting for you!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was in a disarray. From her push, he had almost fallen to the ground.


    He was not someone without a temper. His face immediately darkened once more and he said coldly, ¡°Since you deem it that way, there is nothing I can do! When your anger subsides, we¡¯ll talk again!¡± With that, he turned and slowly walked away.


    Gu Fangzi stood in a daze. How did things end this way? This was not what she had thought would happen!


    ¡°Big Cousin! Big Cousin!¡± Gu Fangzi chased after him and clung to him tightly from behind. With her cheek pasted stickily to his back, she cried, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry! I won¡¯t fuss over this, I won¡¯t fuss over this anymore! I¡¯ll believe in you; is it not enough for me to believe in you? Big Cousin, please don¡¯t ignore me!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart softened again. Even though he knew that her words were untrue, at least she was willing to try and believe him. He gently turned around and patted her back. ¡°Enough, enough crying. I was also at fault just now, so let¡¯s not mention this anymore, alright?¡±


    Gu Fangzi had an insatiable temperament. Seeing that Shi Fengju had finally conceded, she went on to be pretentious, unwilling to give an answer while lowering her head as tears flowed down her cheeks.


    Shi Fengju was used to coaxing her. Seeing her the way she was now, though he felt frustrated, he could not just leave her crying. As such, all he could do was stay by her side and patientlyfort her.


    After a long while, Gu Fangzi finally stopped crying. Wiping away the tears on her face, she pretended, ¡°This all happened because of my bad temperament. I should not have acted that way, but instead listened to what Big Cousin had to say!¡± But deep down she was ted for she finally had Shi Fengju back under her ¡°spell.¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but heave a sigh of relief before nodding heavily. ¡°That should be the way! When have I ever made you feel aggrieved?¡±


    Of course, Gu Fangzi naturally did not agree with that statement. Her not suffering from grievances was all due only to her own abilities.


    And making her aunt and Shi Fengju thought only of her was also part of it.


    However, on the surface, Gu Fangzi nodded shyly, with an ¡°ah,¡± before showing a sweet grin on her face.


    ¡°But Aunt Wang let me continue to manage the household. The order isn¡¯t right, I¡ª¡ª¡± Gu Fangzi gave a faint sigh and looked at Shi Fengju. ¡°I think that Cousin Sang Wan should be the one doing the management. She¡¯s more knowledgeable and clever than me; managing the household shouldn¡¯t be difficult for her.¡±


    That was a problem. Shi Fengju raised a brow.


    If he were to let Sang Wan manage the household and push Fangzi to a side, his mother would never agree to it! That olddy might even argue with him until the earth flipped! Why quarrel to the point where there was no peace left in the household?


    What¡¯s more, in a year or so, Sang Wan would be leaving. In the end, Fangzi would still have to return to manage the household.


    ¡°What about this, on the surface, you tell the servants that you¡¯re working under her instructions. But in reality, you¡¯re actually the one who call the shots. You¡¯ll just be borrowing her name to get things done. What do you think? Then I¡¯ll have you then married into the family after a year or so!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was d for the first half of his speech, but once his speech waspleted, her heart sank again.


    A year or so? Just what are you nning, Big Cousin? To actually have me wait for a year or so before I can enter into the family?


    She wanted to ask regarding the duration of the waiting time, but she understood that now was not the time to ask Shi Fengju about it. Gently, she nodded. ¡°If so, that¡¯ll be alright. I¡¯ll do so then! But as for Cousin-inw...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to her about it. No need to worry.¡±


    Gu Fangzi finally put down her worries and smiled.


    A year or so? Hmph, there might not even be a need to wait a year or so! Who knows, it might be tomorrow, the following day, or next month when he changes his mind.


    When Shi Fengju returned to Ning Garden, he immediately told Sang Wan about it. Secretly, Sang Wan sighed and epted reluctantly. So long as Gu Fangzi did not provoke her, she may continue to manage the household however she likes!


    Having won the battle this time around, Gu Fangzi went to Ning Garden happily the next day to speak with Sang Wan.

 Chapter 21 (V2): A Demonstration Test

    <h4>Chapter 21 (V2): A Demonstration Test</h4>


    ¡°Cousin Sang Wan won¡¯t put the fault on me, right? In fact, there isn¡¯t any other reason behind Big Cousin and Aunt Wang¡¯s actions. It¡¯s just that I¡¯ve always helped Aunt Wang manage the household, so I may be more ustomed to the way of handling the management in the direction that Aunt Wang desires. Of course, aside from reporting back to Aunt Wang in the future, I¡¯ll also let Cousin Sang Wan know, so as to gather a decision that may be of a different perspective! Still, whatever I do, I would never dare cross the line where Cousin Sang Wan stands and would never dare to disrespect!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled with a touch of pride in it. It made the pupils of her eyes glisten, making them look exceptionally charming.


    ¡°Why would I me Cousin Fangzi? Cousin Fangzi looks too much upon me as an outsider.¡± Sang Wan politely returned with a smile. ¡°Mother-inw and Lord are bothprehensive with their thoughts, and thus their actions are for the good of the household! So long as the household remains in harmony, that will be the greatest blessing for all of us! As such, how could I not be understanding of their actions? Still, Lord has already discussed this with me before. I¡¯m nothing but a figurehead anyway, so for that, it is all up to you! And regarding the management, just do what you deem fit; there¡¯s no need for my approval!¡±


    While Sang Wan spoke, Gu Fangzi stared at her face without blinking. Her luminous gaze seemed to see through Sang Wan¡¯s five senses to dig out her intentions. But Sang Wan was calm. Her brows did not waver, her tone was gentle, and her lips were curled to show a sweet smile. There was absolutely no trace of annoyance, let alone unwillingness and anger.


    For a moment, Gu Fangzi felt as if her approach had been sessful, but soon felt dullness in her heart.


    Unwilling to let be, she smiled before adding carefully, ¡°Does Cousin Sang Wan truly not mind? After all, you¡¯re Big Cousin¡¯s wife and the young mistress of this household! I, I am in the end nothing but an outsider, so the management should naturally be managed by Cousin Sang Wan!¡±


    Liu Ya, who had been tasked to serve by Sang Wan¡¯s side, immediately rolled her eyes. Clearly, Miss Gu understood the situation she was in! If so, why even attempt to remain unreasonable? Since it has been done, then so be it, whye over to voice her grievances? If Young Mistress Fang were here, she would definitely have given her a scolding with something like ¡°What a pretentious person you are, pretending to be mistreated after gaining a favor!¡±


    But this time around, Sang Wan could not help but feel a slight trace of annoyance deep within her heart. How could this person not know when to stop? Surely, she had made things clear, that all she wanted was harmony within the household! So what else does this person want her to do?


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Wan quickly reflected before answering. Was her performance not sincere enough to make others feel at ease? As such, not only was she unprovoked by Gu Fangzi¡¯s words, she even made the effort to show a little more sincerity. ¡°Those words truly were from the bottom of my heart. Whatever it may be, Cousin Fangzi, just do what you need to do with a peace of mind! There is no need for any misgivings! In any case, if you¡¯re over-sensitive about this, I may end up feeling apologetic towards you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sneered discreetly. That act, you may as well continue with that act! And if that was an act, then those who blindly ept truly are the fools!


    ¡°That I shall!¡± Gu Fangziughed. ¡°Sure enough, no wonder Aunt Wang praises Cousin Sang Wan for having such a good temperament and being virtuous! In the future, Cousin Sang Wan can rx and live afortable life here. For anyplicated household trivia, I dare not let my cousin-inw worry about them! Cousin Sang Wan truly is blessed!¡± Gu Fangzi giggled and smiled tenderly, but a sense of envy could be felt amidst theughter.


    Sang Wan was dumbfounded. This person sure was clever with her words, all just to force out a rtionship? To have turned her into a blessed person, all due to the efforts of this person not letting her worry about anyplicated trivia!


    Sang Wan was not willing to orally ept this inexplicable rtionship. Though she was not willing to do so verbally, she smiled and lowered her head to take a sip from her cup of tea.


    With that, Gu Fangzi stopped and gave a smallugh, ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave first then! Oh yes, since Ning Garden will now be taken care by Cousin Sang Wan, I¡¯ll have someone send the roster hereter! If Cousin Sang Wancks anything, needs something to be adjusted, or wants a change in any servants who are not useful, do let me know! If Cousin Sang Wan suffers from any humiliation, Aunt Wang and Big Cousin will definitely not let me off, hee hee!¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Sang Wan pursed her lips and smiled before nodding.


    Once Gu Fangzi left, Liu Ya and Sang Wan looked at each other. Liu Ya¡¯s brows rose and her mouth twitched a little before she spoke softly to Sang Wan. ¡°That person sure is shameless! If I may, she is more despicable than the elderly couple of our Sang family!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go about spouting nonsense!¡± Sang Wan immediately stared at the door. This ce wasn¡¯t just them, master and servant!


    Liu Ya stuck out her tongue and grimaced.


    Sang Wan could not help but smile. Compared to her second aunt, Gu Fangzi was definitely capable of something despicable, so the words Liu Ya had said were not actually wrong.


    Soon after, Gu Fangzi dispatched maidservant Ya Chun to deliver the roster to Ning Garden, which contained information about all of the servants working there.


    ¡°Miss Gu said to let this servant help Young Mistress with reading the roster. If Young Mistress has any questions or requests, this servant will return and report back to Miss Gu.¡± Maidservant Ya Chun said, without blinking. Clearly, she was Gu Fangzi¡¯s spokesperson.


    As she spoke, Zhide, Hong Ye, and all the other maidservants of Ning Garden gathered, listening expressionlessly while awaiting Sang Wan¡¯s response.


    ¡°That is in no hurry. You may return. I¡¯ll take a look at it slowly.¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°Miss Gu appointed this servant to drop all errands today and stay to obey Young Mistress¡¯s instructions. Even so, this servant will remain at the side while Young Mistress looks over it slowly.¡± Maidservant Ya Chun smiled. Though she spoke wlessly, her feet did not move a single step, as if she had no regard of Sang Wan. Every line she spoke included Gu Fangzi. As such, the meaning behind them could easily be understood.


    If this had happened outside of Ning Garden, Sang Wan would have just let the maidservant¡¯s actions pass and would not bother about it. But in Ning Garden, and in front of so many other maidservants who served her, if she were to let the maidservant be, Ning Garden would definitely not be peaceful ever again! Ning Garden could even be renamed the Garden of Impoliteness!


    ¡°I have no need for you to serve me here, so you might as well call it a day and go home to rest! The matters in Ning Garden will still have to wait for Nanny Li first! Then I will not trouble maidservant Ya Chun any further!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s gaze was stern as she red at maidservant Ya Chun and spoke coldly.


    Maidservant Ya Chun did not expect that the gentle and soft-spoken young mistress, who had only recently entered the Shi family, to not give her any face. Her face reddened on the spot and she felt a little embarrassed.


    With Gu Fangzi supporting her, she was sure that Sang Wan did not have the authority to do anything towards her. As such, she refused to leave and simply smiled. ¡°Young Mistress¡ª¡±


    ¡°Zhide, Liu Ya! Please send Maidservant Ya Chun off!¡± Seeing that the maidservant did not take any regard of her words, Sang Wan¡¯s face darkened a little and her tone became a little stern.


    Since she had given her instructions clearly, Zhide had to abide by them, and Liu Ya even more so! The two spoke in unison as they walked up to Maidservant Ya Chun. ¡°Sister Ya, please leave!¡± Without any exnation, Maidservant Ya Chun was half-chased and half-dragged out of Ning Garden.


    The maidservants quietly exchanged nces at one another. The new young mistress¡¯s good temperament had its limit!


    Unexpectedly, less than half a day after Maidservant Ya Chun was chased out of Ning Garden, Nanny Li, who was recuperating at home, returned back to Ning Garden slowly, with the help of a young maidservant supporting her.


    Hearing the news from the maidservants, Sang Wan, who was looking through the roster, was surprised and immediately went out to personally wee her.


    Nanny Li had been Shi Fengju¡¯s nanny and had forged a deep rtion with Shi Fengju. Shi Fengju was very filial to her, and as such, Sang Wan dared not neglect this very important person.


    ¡°Nanny, what made you decide to return? Your body isn¡¯tpletely healed yet; you should take more time off to recuperate at home!¡± Sang Wan smiled and personally went up to support Nanny Li.


    Nanny Li hurriedly dodged the help and let Zhide continue to support her. Slowly, she spoke, ¡°Aiyo, thank you, Young Mistress, but this old servant is not an important person worthy of Young Mistress doing so!¡±


    ¡°You are Lord¡¯s nanny, and as such Sang Wan¡¯s elder. So of course, Nanny Li is worthy of it!¡± Sang Wan smiled but did not make another attempt to support her. Seeing that she had sat down, Sang Wan instead went to receive the cup of tea from the maidservant serving it, before handing it politely to Nanny Li.


    Seeing so, Nanny Li hurriedly leaned forward to receive the cup. ¡°Young Mistress truly is polite. This may make this old servant feel a little terrible on the inside!¡± Sighing, she went on. ¡°It truly is a pity that I¡¯m old and useless! To have missed the grand day between Young Master and Young Mistress! Oh, it is a pity, truly a pity!¡±


    For not being able to attend Shi Fengju¡¯s wedding ceremony, and not being able to witness him as he married Sang Wan into the family, Nanny Li truly regretted missing the grand day.


    ¡°Lord and I are grateful that Nanny Li thought about us! So long as you take care of your frail body, Lord will definitely be happy!¡± Sang Wan smiled as she spoke.


    Nanny Li could not help butugh. ¡°Young Mistress surely has a way with words! Whoever hears this will definitely feelfortable!¡±


    ¡°What I spoke was just the truth! But that could also be taken that way!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled. ¡°I heard that Young Mistress has taken over the management of Ning Garden? So many administrative things have to be put in order properly then? Well, that ought to be the case! From today on, Young Master will be fully in Young Mistress¡¯s care then!¡±


    Nanny Li¡¯s expression darkened a little, and a trace of loneliness could be seen in her eyes. The words she spoke were also filled with vicissitudes.


    Sang Wan was secretly shocked. It seemed that before she had been married into the family, Ning Garden was basically under Nanny Li¡¯s care!


    No wonder Nanny Li had hurried over in spite of her frail body. Needless to say, it must have been either Maidservant Ya Chun or Gu Fangzi who said some irrelevant things to Nanny Li.


    ¡°I hope Nanny is just joking! Sang Wan has only just entered the family and does not recognize each and every one of the servants yet, so how would I be able to manage the matters here? All I wanted was to be familiar with their names and appearances! Everything in this garden, from top to bottom, seems to be running smoothly and does not need any instructions from me to be ced in order. Why don¡¯t Nanny take me under your wing?¡± Sang Wan spoke and hurriedly added, ¡°Also, there isn¡¯t any need to hurry over this! After Nanny¡¯s body recovers,ing back after shouldn¡¯t be toote! Sang Wan is still young and has yet to umte experience. In the future, I¡¯ll definitely have to trouble Nanny to advise me! But I hope nanny won¡¯t dislike me because I¡¯m inexperienced!¡±


    A fine line of happiness showed in Nanny Li¡¯s eyes and she asked in surprise, ¡°Then, what Young Mistress means is that this old servant can return?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Wan found it a little odd but went on. ¡°You¡¯re Lord¡¯s nanny. So long as you are willing to, you¡¯re weed back anytime!¡±


    Sang Wan then spoke embarrassedly as she smiled, ¡°My skin is a little thick, and I¡¯d like to have you guide me in the management! Also, as you¡¯ve been taking care of Lord since he was little, as for Lord¡¯s temperament and likings, I¡¯m sure you know them like the back of your hand!¡±

 Chapter 22 (V2): Passing the Mother-In-Law’s Message

    <h4>Chapter 22 (V2): Passing the Mother-In-Law¡¯s Message</h4>


    ¡°Yes of course, of course! I hope Young Mistress doesn¡¯t see this olddy as being long-winded, but this olddy shall provide advice without any reserve!¡± Nanny Li could not help but smile. Deep down, she was truly happy.


    She had almost wanted to speak from another direction, saying, ¡°This Ning Garden has always been under my care. Not just the Young Master, but everything from top to bottom of Ning Garden, this old maidservant here knows it all!¡± The thought of spouting that hade about. After all, she headed over the moment she heard that Sang Wan would be taking over the management of Ning Garden, how could her actions not show her pettiness? Nanny Li felt a sense of being robbed of her authority as she rushed over to Ning Garden.


    Of course, Nanny Li had indeede with grievances, because her old neighbor¡¯s granddaughter heard from someone that the young mistress who¡¯d recently entered the Shi household was going to put Ning Garden in order andy down new regtions. The moment she had heard that, she had to rush over angrily. But it seemed that was not the case at all.


    Nanny Li was a knowledgeable person. Reflecting on herself, she realized that she had almost fallen into someone else¡¯s n to cause her to be estranged from the young mistress of this household. Then again, Gu Fangzi was definitely the one doing this. After all, if she were to embarrass the young mistress, only Gu Fangzi would be at an advantage.


    That sly fox! Nanny Li clenched her teeth tightly.


    Gently taking a quick look at Sang Wan, her strong sense of responsibility rose spontaneously: The young mistress, with such a temperament, is the sly fox¡¯s opponent? That¡¯ll definitely add to my worries! Young Master was brought up by me single-handedly, I definitely cannot watch him be destroyed under the hands of that sly fox!


    Young Master¡¯s wife should be someone like this young mistress, gentle and polite. Such a character is then worthy of the young master. Unlike that sly fox who acts like a spoiled brat and thinks that everything revolves around her. That fox knows nothing of being considerate towards Young Master¡¯s feelings. Every now and then, she¡¯ll throw her temper around and request for him to head over immediately to coax her!


    The Shi family is a big household with arge business. Working outside was already enough to make him busy and tired. At home, he should enjoy afortable life, rather than having to make every effort to please and tter that woman.


    Just from the thought of Gu Fangzi in those days, Nanny Li felt a sense of anger deep within her. Seeing the young master being eaten away slowly by thatdy, she had felt both distressed and angry, but she was utterly helpless.


    ¡°Really? Then Sang Wan shall give my thanks!¡± Sang Wan smiled as she spoke. Nanny Li was like a cow protective of her calf, and Sang Wan was entirely aware of that. With Nanny Li helping her, things would definitely be easier to handle.


    ¡°Young Mistress is too modest!¡± Nanny Li smiled. After thinking for a short while, she sighed. ¡°Young Mistress treats this old maidservant as her own, as such, this olddy is very grateful! Young Master is a good man, and in the future, I¡¯m sure Young Mistress will understand! All you need to do is to take care of Young Master well, and when you¡¯re idle, head over to where Old Mistress Wang is and have a chat with her. At present, you can ignore every other thing, but you¡¯ve to be careful not to look only at the surface.¡±


    In this household, and in both lives, Nanny Li was the first to treat her well and to talk to her from the heart. Sang Wan at this moment was having mixed feelings. Her nose felt a little sour and tears formed in her eyes.


    ¡°Nanny¡¯s words, Sang Wan will remember them! Thank you, Nanny, for the advice!¡± Sang Wan blinked a few times before nodding at Nanny Li.


    Nanny Li could not openly criticize Gu Fangzi, for she was still unfamiliar with Sang Wan, so she gave no further advice.


    But the meaning behind the advice she gave was extremely obvious. In this household, the only two important people Sang Wan should focus on are the young master and the old mistress, for they were the only two whom she could rely on and ce her trust. But if she were to walk off the right path due to someone else¡¯s presence, then that would be due to her stupidity and was unworthy to receive any help.


    How I wish this girl will not disappoint me. Nanny Li¡¯s body had always been frail. With the roller coaster of emotions she had experienced ¨C rushing here angrily before having a calm talk with Sang Wan, her body began to feel slightly lethargic.


    Sang Wan immediately instructed for some ginseng tea to be served. ¡°Nanny, have some rest first. I¡¯ll call for someone to apany you backter! Do be at ease as you recuperate. When your body is healed, have someone deliver a message and I¡¯ll call for someone to pick you up!¡± Once done, Sang Wan continued to ask whether Nanny Li would like to have a rest inside the chamber.


    ¡°I¡¯m just a servant, and should not be given such an honor!¡± Nanny Li smiled. Taking a few sips of the ginseng tea, she rested a little before leaving.


    The storm had passed and Sang Wan could finally let out a sigh. Two days went by calmly with no oneing up to her doorsteps to give her trouble. Gu Fangzi was also busy with the household affairs, so she did not provoke Sang Wan for the time being.


    With nothing to do, Sang Wan grabbed Liu Ya to sincerely improve her literacy. In the Sang house, Liu Ya had been her personal maidservant and had always stayed by her side. As such, she was able to understand a number of words. However, her library of words was still very limited. Because of the financial situation they had been in, being a sensible girl, Sang Wan also had to help out with the house chores. Only rich people had no need to do so!


    Although her oldest brother had doted on her, she also had to take into ount her sister-inw¡¯s feelings. However, since her oldest brother was very determined to not let her work in the fields, she hadn¡¯t been able to act as if the chores in the house were none of her business. Even she herself dared not take a book out to read when there were chores to be done, so how could she even find the time to teach Liu Ya?


    But all was different now. Perhaps in the future, she¡¯d need to continue to survive together with Liu Ya, and thus, being literate would make them more sensible. And since herte father, her oldest brother, and second brother also said that studying was irrespective of gender, she took that as a fact. As such, if time permitted, she would also teach Liu Ya. And maybe in the future, Liu Ya could be a reliable assistance.


    Moreover, having something to keep Liu Ya with her would also be good.


    But Sang Wan was afraid. She was afraid that Liu Ya would wander off, resulting in something like the past where Liu Ya no longer belonged to her!


    ¡°Young Mistress! Young Mistress!¡± This day, after breakfast, Sang Wan was teaching Liu Ya to read and write in the kitchen after the dishes were cleared. Unexpectedly, a round-faced maidservant, wearing a blue upper garment with a long white skirt, dashed in. Startled, Sang Wan immediately looked at her. She was a maidservant who served at Mother-inw Wang¡¯s side, Xiao Que¡¯er.


    Sang Wan hurriedly questioned her.


    ¡°Young Mistress, Old Mistress Wang calls for you!¡± Xiao Que¡¯er spoke hurriedly.


    ¡°Mother-inw calls for me? Whatever for?¡± Sang Wan dared not neglect Wang Shi when she called for her.


    Xiao Que¡¯er shook her head, ¡°Young Mistress will know when you reach there!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded. Adjusting her clothes, she went to look into a bronze mirror and adjusted her hair. Turning to look at Liu Ya who had stopped writing diligently and was staring back at her, she could not help but give a smallugh and said, ¡°Write the ten characters I taught you twenty times each. And have you memorized the literary work which I taught you yesterday? I¡¯ll take a look and test you on itter when I get back!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mistress!¡± Liu Ya felt depressed but went back to bury her head deep in writing.


    ¡°And as for you,e along with me!¡± Sang Wan smiled and turned to Zhide before instructing her.


    Zhide agreed. Holding onto Sang Wan, they followed Xiao Que¡¯er.


    Halfway through the route, they came across a maidservant holding onto a youngdy. Thedy had a fine and slender waist, a gorgeous handkerchief in her hand, wore a skirt woven with many fine magenta lines of cotton roses, with an emerald flower hairpin on each side of her temple. Lifting her gaze, she stopped in her tracks.


    This was Mi Shi¡¯s daughter-inw, Zhou Shi, whose husband had eloped with a famous tavern girl and never returned not long after she had been married into the family. Zhou Shi was reclusive; as such, Sang Wan had only met her a few times in her past life. But in this life, this was their first meeting after she had been married into the Shi family.


    Sang Wan deliberately became startled and stopped, before giving an inquisitive nce to Zhide.


    ¡°She is the Second Shi Family¡¯s Young Mistress!¡± Zhide hurriedly introduced thedy to Sang Wan. Together with Xiao Que¡¯er, Zhide greeted Zhou Shi.


    ¡°Ah, Cousin-inw Jingyi!¡± Sang Wan nodded before greeting.


    ¡°Cousin-inw Sang Wan!¡± Zhou Shi returned the greeting.


    Once the greeting was over, Sang Wan casuallyughed and requested that their chat be conducted at ater date before hurriedly bidding farewell.


    ¡°Cousin Sang Wan is heading to where Aunt Wang is?¡± Zhou Shi suddenly asked.


    ¡°Yes. Mother-inw is looking for me, so I¡¯m heading there now!¡± Mother-inw had the absolute position and authority. As such, Sang Wan could not continue to chat with Zhou Shi idly and had to hurry over.


    Zhou Shi swept over Sang Wan¡¯s appearance and her eyes seemed to darken a little, but she spoke no further and smiled. ¡°Then I shall not upy Cousin Sang Wan¡¯s time. Cousin Sang Wan, please!¡± She left only after seeing the three off.


    Through the courtyard and across the hallway, Sang Wan could hear the crispughter of a middle-aged woman. Sang Wan¡¯s heart began to pound and her pace slowed down. There wasn¡¯t a clue who thedy was, but she wasughing so arrogantly and confidently in front of Wang Shi.


    A clear thought suddenly surfaced in her mind. Immediately, Sang Wan¡¯s face turned pale and she tightly clenched the handkerchief in her hand.


    If she wasn¡¯t wrong, thatdy might be Old Mistress Zhuang¡ª she was her mother-inw¡¯s rival!


    Although the Zhuang family did not have the title of being rich in Qingzhou, they were reputable. However, the fact remained unknown as to why Old Mistress Zhuang liked topare with Wang Shi. Regardless of the matter, she would always stir a fight with Wang Shi, as if only by winning would she finally be at ease!


    In thest few years, the battles between them had be more and more intense. In the past, theypeted over whose business was better, whose sons were better, whose maidservants were more caring, who was more filial to their mother, whose garden was more beautiful, and so on. But now, it was different; they would contest even the smallest of things!


    Sang Wan secretly heightened her vignce and put her all to bing cautious; only then did she enter. In her past life, Gu Fangzi had gone through means to ridicule her in front of Old Mistress Zhuang. Because of that, her mother-inw was heavily ridiculed by Old Mistress Zhuang, and Sang Wan¡¯s life in the Shi family became worse and worse. Who would have thought that she¡¯d have to face Old Mistress Zhuang so soon!


    And in this life, who knew if that Old Mistress Zhuang and Gu Fangzi would set any pitfalls for her to fall into?


    ¡°Daughter-inw is here!¡± Sang Wan came forward and curtsied to Wang Shi before greeting politely.


    Seeing Sang Wan, Wang Shi was taken aback, and her eyes showed a sense of unhappiness. Sang Wan immediately caught it and could not help but begin questioning herself. She had only just arrived, and only said a greeting; what did she do wrong?


    ¡°Keke,e and greet Mistress Zhuang. She is a reputable person in Qingzhou!¡± Wang Shi gestured intimately and introduced Old Mistress Zhuang with a smile.


    In front of Old Mistress Zhuang, whatever Wang Shi was thinking deep inside her was never portrayed out. Above all, she had to showcase her intimacy with her daughter-inw so as not to be mocked by Old Mistress Zhuang.

 Chapter 23 (V2): The Battle Between Two Ladies

    <h4>Chapter 23 (V2): The Battle Between Two Ladies</h4>


    ¡°Yes.¡± Sang Wan gently agreed. Turning to Old Mistress Zhuang, Sang Wan curtsied. ¡°Sang Wan gives my greetings to Old Mistress Zhuang!¡±


    ¡°Good, good!¡± Old Mistress Zhuang grinned. Her glistening eyes observed Sang Wan from head to toe before gesturing to her. ¡°Come,e, have a seat beside me! A good appearance and verydy-like. Nothing less of a missy from a literary family! But really, she¡¯s different from people like us!¡±


    Thetter sentence was meant directly for Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi forced a smile and her face stiffened a little.


    Sang Wan really wished she could zip Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s mouth. That woman feared nothing but peace in this world. To have said something so strange, it was obvious that she wanted to witness a dispute between mother-inw and daughter-inw. Her heart was contented only by looking at others in disdain.


    There were always people like her in this world. Something that looks ordinary may be distorted by her words! Once heard, the heart of others will definitely not befortable anymore.


    Sang Wan did not move. Her gaze moved to the corner of her eye, where Wang Shi sat, disying the obvious meaning of awaiting an approval. Now that she could only take a step at a time and Wang Shi was one of those whom she could rely on, she had to keep Wang Shi in mind and tread with care.


    Sure enough, seeing that Sang Wan did not just follow Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s words but waited for her approval, Wang Shi¡¯s expression loosened a little. Looking straight at Old Mistress Zhuang, as if nothing had happened, Wang Shi smiled at Sang Wan. ¡°Mistress Zhuang calls for you. What are you doing just standing there?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Sang Wan curtsied to Wang Shi before walking over to Old Mistress Zhuang and taking a seat next to her.


    ¡°You¡¯re too careful! Is your mother-inw so terrible to the point that you¡¯ve got to get her approval?¡± Old Mistress Zhuang smiled but was a little displeased. Smiling again at Wang Shi, she added, ¡°But nevertheless, she¡¯s an honest child.¡±


    Wang Shi was so furious that she almost choked. Old Mistress Zhuang was just short of saying that she mistreated her daughter-inw! But there was nowhere for her to throw her anger; all she could do was inly endure.


    ¡°A daughter-inw must be filial. Although Sang Wan may be young and knows little, Sang Wan knows to keep the elder in mind and to never act without consent.¡± Sang Wan smiled shyly and spoke gently.


    Wang Shi¡¯s anger subsided and she hurriedly smiled. ¡°Mistress Zhuang is right, my daughter-inw; you¡¯re too simple-minded! I may be an elder, but Mistress Zhuang is also an elder. If you¡¯re this careful, others may think that I am a very narrow-minded mother-inw!¡±


    Sang Wan gazed at Wang Shi and epted with a gentle ¡°Yes,¡± but also caught a glimpse of Mistress Zhuang looking at them in disdain at the same time.


    No wonder Old Mistress Zhuang looked at her mother-inw in disdain. Her mother-inw¡¯s standard of speech was not on the same level as Old Mistress Zhuang! Sang Wan thought deeply to herself.


    Sang Wan could vaguely understand the reason why Old Mistress Zhuang loved topete against her mother-inw. The most important reason might perhaps be because her mother-inw was not as great as Old Mistress Zhuang but sat in the position of being the ¡°Richest Mistress in Qingzhou.¡±


    Old Mistress Zhuang directly ignored those words from Wang Shi, and smiled towards Sang Wan. ¡°Wordsing from a literary family sure are different, truly pleasant to the ears! Ai, though you¡¯ve read many books, why do your hands have calluses?¡±


    Sang Wan struggled slightly to hide her hands and her face flushed a little. In her parental home, she had to do the housework day after day, for she was not a child born with a golden spoon in her mouth. As such, her hands had calluses and would not even be as smooth as those of an ordinary girl like Shi Lian!


    Of course, Old Mistress Zhuang knew of her family¡¯s situation, but she deliberately said so just to ridicule Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan felt a little ufortable. She had never assumed that doing the housework was a shameful thing but instead took the task with pride. A sudden thought came to her. Just how many more words of ridicule are waiting behind that mouth of Mistress Zhuang? In that case, should she just sit and invite the ridicule?


    Wang Shi had never been pleased with the joining of the Shi family and the Sang family, due to their difference in wealth. With the Shi family¡¯s current position, having ady from a family of officials marry into the family was not impossible. Because of that, Sang Wan decided to remain quiet, to prevent Old Mistress Zhuang from mocking Wang Shi any further.


    Sang Wan gritted her teeth and smiled, epting the words of Old Mistress Zhuang quietly. Since Old Mistress Zhuang had already said so, it would inconvenience Wang Shi if she denied it. Secretly, she rolled her eyes and scolded Old Mistress Zhuang in her heart for being ¡°thick skinned,¡± before letting the ridicule go.


    Dissatisfied, Old Mistress Zhuang was unwilling to give up. Giving a look at Wang Shi, she smiled. ¡°If I may say, Sister Wang, the Shi family is the richest in Qingzhou. Not talking about Sang Wan¡¯s past, she is now your daughter-inw, so how could the way she¡¯s dressed be so in? Just look at the material of that garment, it¡¯s so ordinary! The makeup on her face is also not perfect, depriving her of her beauty! Aiya, the jewelry of her head ornament is also somon, ah! Don¡¯t tell me this is thetest fashion this year? Sister Wang, you should be thankful that it was me and not someone else. Otherwise, she might be gossiped about for her attire, saying that the Shi family was not the same as before, for their young mistress to be dressed so ordinarily!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s remarks were like salt being rubbed on the already wounded Wang Shi. Her face darkened and she snapped, ¡°Says who? Our Shi family is great and still the same! Our Fengju is capable and our family business is doing better every year! And as for those gossips, they¡¯re not even worth listening to! Sang Wan, of course, has quality clothes, head ornaments, and cosmetics! It¡¯s just that she¡¯s tooid-back and dislikes wearing them! The Shi family is generous and benevolent, so how could my daughter-inw becking in any way?¡±


    Sang Wan was suddenly enlightened as to why her mother-inw had shown a face of unhappiness when she had firste. She finally knew the root of her mother-inw¡¯s unhappiness!


    She went on to observe her mother-inw¡¯s wear. She had on a cored satin cloak decorated with golden-green adornments and a dark green gown woven with leaping treasured, golden-colored rabbits on its hem. Her hair was held by a jade headpiece, rimmed with pearls and decorated with ornamental flowers; a carved goldenmb hairpin was slid to the side of her temple. A red coral silver hairpin was also slid into the back of her hair. On her neck hung eighteen emerald beads that were strung into a ne; she wore pendant earrings imbued with jade sat on her ear, a pair of clean white jade bracelets on her wrist, and a gold ring embedded with arge ruby on her thumb. She was dressed entirely in riches, more grandly and formally than even during the tea ceremony.


    Now onto Old Mistress Zhuang. She wore a cored purple cloak lined with a grape-like pattern, a gown of indigo and gold decorated with folds, and was decorated with a number of ornaments. Her dress was also that of a Mistress from a rich family!


    The two were definitely up against one another! One hade prepared, and the other was awaiting the challenge.


    Sang Wan then looked at her own attire. A turquoise colored in coat embroidered with chrysanthemum flowers, a clean and white long skirt with no essories, and a in hairpin. On a whole, she was decently dressed, but could still be considered shabby. No wonder her mother-inw was unhappy.


    ¡°Like I said!¡± Old Mistress Zhuang giggled and acted startled. The handkerchief in her hand was one that was difficult to find in the market for its turquoise jade coloration.


    ¡°Of course, the Shi family isn¡¯t stingy!¡± Old Mistress Zhuang spoke calmly. Turning to Sang Wan, she smiled. ¡°Then it is Sang Wan¡¯s fault, no? How could a young daughter-inw not dress up nicely? It isn¡¯t like you have no qualifications to do so! Others may end up misunderstanding! For others outside, they may conclude that your mother-inw and Young Master Shi are ill-treating you! Aiyo, I hope Sang Wan isn¡¯t mad at me for being such a straightforward person! I may be wrong though, maybe you¡¯re used to the way you¡¯re dressed, but who knows? Keke, Sister Wang ah, you should¡¯ve had a daughter-inw of the same family background as yours marry into the family, as having to change someone¡¯s habit and temperament may be a difficult task to aplish! Aiya, I may have said too much!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhuang smiled as she spoke. Her words were sometimes meant for Sang Wan and sometimes for Wang Shi. But the smile she had on her face never ceased, nor did the cynical meaning behind her words.


    Listening to the extent of Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s ridicule, Wang Shi¡¯s heart red. The marriage was not one which she had weed wholeheartedly, and if not for Old Mistress Zhuang, she would have immediately red up at Sang Wan.


    Her eyes drooped and glistened. ¡®Be calm, be calm, just bear with it, just bear with it,¡¯ she muttered a few times in her heart to calm herself down before trying toe out with something to refute. However, she knew not how to do so.


    Forcefully, she smiled, ¡°It isn¡¯t as serious as what you¡¯ve just described! Sang Wan is a virtuous child who respects her mother-inw well and has a gentle temperament! She¡¯s great! Besides, this marriage was arranged by thete Master of the house and his eye for people is great, no? Otherwise, ah, the title of our family being the richest in Qingzhou would never have been ours! Don¡¯t you agree?¡±


    Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s expression became a little stiff, but she kept the smile on her face.


    At that time, the old master of the Shi family and the old master of the Zhuang family had been business partners. Even though the two had met with a different encounter in love, their love forparison amongst each other had never changed. But when that mentality hade down to Old Mistress Zhuang and Wang Shi, it was white-hot.


    This time around, Wang Shi¡¯s words were indescribably sharp. If not for Old Master Shi¡¯s eye, most of the fortune in Qingzhou today would have belonged to the Zhuang family! And the Zhuang family would not have lost to the Shi family! So, did Old Master Zhuang pick the wrong woman?


    Sang Wan giggled to herself. Who would have thought that her mother-inw coulde up with such hurtful words! Just from those words, Old Mistress Zhuang may not be able to sleep soundly tonight!


    ¡°It is because of Sang Wan¡¯s negligence,¡± Sang Wan hurriedly smiled and continued. ¡°Sang Wan hurried over and did not take the time to dress up properly and caused Old Mistress Zhuang to be ridiculed! Sang Wan apologizes and seeks Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s forgiveness!¡±


    ¡°Sister Zhuang is very forgiving and wouldn¡¯t argue over such. But next time, I¡¯m sure you know what to do? If you repeat such a mistake, others may misunderstand!¡± Wang Shi spoke.


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Mother-inw, for the teaching. Sang Wan will remember it!¡± Sang Wan stood and curtsied towards Wang Shi.


    Old Mistress Zhuang was indeed affected by Wang Shi¡¯s words. Though her face did not show it, her heart was feeling entirely ufortable. Seeing the y between mother-inw and daughter-inw, it annoyed her deeply, but she went on. ¡°Why do I not see thatss, Fangzi? In the past, she would always sit by our side and chat with us, but why is she not here today? No wonder I had this feeling that we were missing someone!¡±

 Chapter 24 (V2): Xiao Que’er’s Harbored Intention

    <h4>Chapter 24 (V2): Xiao Que¡¯er¡¯s Harbored Intention</h4>


    ¡°That is no coincidence. Fangzi caught a cold recently and is unwell. She¡¯s now resting in her chamber! If not, she would definitely havee to greet you!¡± Wang Shi suppressed her impulsive reaction of darkening her face and hung a smile on her face instead.


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression turned dull, but she took a quick nce at Wang Shi upon hearing so. Why did Wang Shi say Gu Fangzi was ill if she was still active and kicking?


    However, having said so, it was great that Gu Fangzi was not here. Otherwise, more of Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s provocative words would definitelye again!


    What Sang Wan did not know was that even Gu Fangzi was afraid of Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s mouth. In fear of not being able to back down with good grace, Gu Fangzi would rather act as if she was ill and let the cmity pass.


    Unconvinced, Old Mistress Zhuang discreetly sneered. But with no way to satisfy her disbelief, she smiled faintly, ¡°Ill? Is she alright? In this season when the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold, it truly is easy to catch a cold! Well, since we¡¯re at this, it is fortunate that she was not severely ill; if she were to suffer from a heart disease, then that would be difficult to treat! Keke, that child Fangzi and Young Master Shi are around the same age, no? Now that Young Master Shi is married, shouldn¡¯t Fangzi also consider about getting married? A yeares and a year goes, time waits for no one!¡±


    Watching her own cousin getting married, her life ahead would be filled with dejection before falling ill soon after, depicted as loneliness in other words. Those words also used Wang Shi of being ipetent as Gu Fangzi¡¯s aunt for not giving some thought to her orphaned niece!


    Although Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s words were harsh, it was a pity for her to have looked too highly upon Wang Shi. The vignt Sang Wan was able to grasp the meaning behind those words that were high in context but Wang Shi could not. She was only angry at Old Mistress Zhuang for attempting to match Shi Fengju and Gu Fangzi together in front of Sang Wan.


    As for that matter, the Shi family had let the Sang family down. And it was also because of this that Wang Shi was furious.


    Wang Shi was unable to endure that anger within her and she flew into a rage. She sneered and taunted in a single breath. ¡°Your concern is greatly appreciated! However, it wasn¡¯t anything major but a single cold. She¡¯ll be fine in a day or two! Once she has recovered, I¡¯ll bring her with me to give you her greetings! Sister Zhuang, do provide your finest dishes and some entertainment when that dayes! Oh, but you may be a little too busy settling Young Master Zhuang¡¯s wedding, no? Keke, which family¡¯s girl would he have his eye on with that high expectation of his!¡±


    Young Master Zhuang, whom Wang Shi spoke of, was Old Master Zhuang and Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s only son, Zhuang Weixian. Zhuang Weixian, like Shi Fengju, was a genius in the business field and manages hundreds of stores at a very young age. However, he was headstrong and had long imed that he would only consider marriage only if the girl meets his expectations. And even if it were an angel, so long as his expectations were not met, he would not bat an eye! In these past few years, Old Mistress Zhuang had introduced countless young women to him, but none were to his liking. As such, the idea of marriage dragged slowly year after year!


    As Old Master Zhuang was anxious to hold a grandson in his arms, Old Mistress Zhuang would naturally be anxious, but nothing could be done. Pressured to a corner, he simply left Qingzhou to expand the business half a year ago and had yet to return.


    Wang Shi¡¯s words once againnded another sessful hit on Mistress Zhuang¡¯s vulnerable spot, and a wave of dizziness went over her head.


    Today, she must have left for the Shi household without looking at the forecast calendar as the tables had turned against her!


    ¡°Good! When the timees, I will hold a feast. Sister Wang, do bring along Sang Wan as well so it will be very lively!¡± Old Mistress Zhuangughed but ruthlessly thought of the first thing she had to do once she returned was to settle Xian¡¯er¡¯s marriage! She believed that her son who shared the same bloodline as she would not dare to disobey her.


    ¡°Of course! That shall be the case!¡± Wang Shiughed. But in her mind, her daughter-inw¡¯s actions could not be overlooked. It was time to discipline her daughter-inw!


    It was Sang Wan who was careless for forgetting that being the Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw was more than just attending to her. Her duties span across being around other wealthydies and getting along well with them, and being polite to the Shi family¡¯s rtives and friends. As the daughter-inw, there would be many other events which she would have to attend in the future, but when that timees, she must be able to conduct herself well and not embarrass the Shi family.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s as nned!¡± Mistress Zhuang stood up to leave while smiling.


    Leaving for the Shi household today, she truly had not looked at the forecast calendar! She hurriedly rushed over excitedly but returned with steam over her head. Since when had she been spoken ill of in front of Wang Shi?


    After seeing Old Mistress Zhuang off, Wang Shi returned and sat back down. In an instant, herplexion turned gloomy. ¡°What is wrong with you? Did I not make myself clear to have you dress up more grandly? Just look at yourself!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes opened in astonishment. In all honesty, when had Xiao Que¡¯er ever passed those words to her? All she heard was her mother-inw wanting her to hurry over, and nothing else! To think that Xiao Que¡¯er dared to hide such a fact, Sang Wan was about to open her mouth to counter-argue but held back.


    Wang Shi was now extremely furious. The best option for her was not to open her mouth. Otherwise, it would cause an ill-effect.


    As such, Sang Wan did not counter-argue with Wang Shi. However, she could not blindly ept the injustice. As such, she red at the nearby Xiao Xue¡¯er who had her head held low; a re which she did not mind Wang Shi noticing.


    She believed that so long as it was noticed by Wang Shi, some doubt would definitely sprout in her heart and she would question a little.


    Xiao Que¡¯er did not think that Sang Wan would be so daring enough to re at her openly in front of Wang Shi. Guiltily, she evaded Sang Wan¡¯s re and withdrew a little.


    Sure enough, Wang Shi noticed Sang Wan¡¯s re and glimpsed at Xiao Que¡¯er. Not scolding Sang Wan any further, Wang Shi grunted a little before gesturing Sang Wan to excuse herself.


    Even though she had managed to gain an inkling to the matter, but as a mother-inw, there were many words which she could not say in Sang Wan¡¯s face. If her conclusion then and now were truly different, then what was her scolding for? Was she wrong for jumping to conclusions?


    ¡°Yes, Sang Wan shall now take her leave! Mother-inw, please cool off a little. Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t dare repeat the mistake again!¡± Sang Wan, having seen her prompt received, bowed respectfully.


    With no displeasure towards Sang Wan, Wang Shi felt a little relieved and crooned, ¡°Next time? Never repeat this mistake ever again! Enough, you may go!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Sang Wan bowed again and turned before taking her leave.


    ¡°I instructed you to invite our family¡¯s young mistress over, but how did you pass my words to her?¡± Wang Shi immediately red at Xiao Que¡¯er coldly.


    Xiao Xue¡¯er¡¯s heart screamed bitterly. ¡°This servant, this servant...¡±


    ¡°Speak truthfully!¡± Wang Shi scolded. ¡°Between you and Sang Wan, it isn¡¯t difficult to tell who¡¯s lying and who¡¯s not! If you dare tell a lie, think first about your future!¡±


    Filled with remorse, Xiao Que¡¯er¡¯s heart trembled. Never had she thought that Sang Wan would be so courageous for the options she hade out with were either Sang Wan enduring the injustice served or arguing with Wang Shi on the spot! But no matter the results, Xiao Que¡¯er was sure that she would be able to avoid the cutting edge. However, that was not the case as of now.


    ¡°This servant deserves to die, this servant deserves to die!¡± Xiao Que¡¯er¡¯s knees immediatelynded on the floor and she cried. ¡°This servant was anxious and was afraid to keep Old Mistress Zhuang waiting. Because of that, this servant only told Young Mistress to hurry over and forgot... forgot to pass the words as instructed! This servant deserves to die, this servant deserves to die!¡±


    ¡°So it truly was you, you thoughtlessss!¡± Wang Shi snapped. ¡°Truly useless to not be able to pass such simple instructions. And there I almost ced Sang Wan in the wrong! Just to keep you¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang!¡± Before Wang Shi could finish, Gu Fangzi swung her handkerchief as she gracefully entered. Swiping a nce, she smiled, ¡°Who is so insensible and made my aunt furious? Oh, so it was thisss! It isn¡¯t easy for Aunt Wang to be so happy, yet what have you done? To have angered my aunt, how dare you!¡± As she spoke, she gently massaged Wang Shi¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Aunt Wang, please cool off a little. To be angry at a littless and harm your health isn¡¯t worth it! There¡¯s no need for Aunt Wang to dwell so much into such a small matter! Why don¡¯t Aunt Wang tell me and I¡¯ll be the judge about it?¡±


    The effort Gu Fangzi put into massaging Wang Shi¡¯s shoulders were just enough. Wang Shi could not help but rxed her body and leaned back to enjoy the service. Together with the gentle persuasion, her anger subsided a little. Giving a soft grunt, she spoke of what had happened and asked, ¡°Tell me, is that reasonable or not? To not be able to pass such a simple instruction, what use is there to let her stay?¡±


    As Gu Fangzi was someone she trusts, there was no need to speak indirectly. Hearing so, Gu Fangzi asked, ¡°Then did Old Mistress Zhuang gain any advantage and said anything else?¡±


    A broad smile slowly emerged on Wang Shi¡¯s face. Gleefully, she shook her head, ¡°Absolutely not! Today sure is a great day! That woman came to pick on me, but today she went back with a belly full of anger! Keke!¡±


    ¡°Qie!¡± Gu Fangzi let out a sound in disdain but spoke, ¡°She is nothingpared to Aunt Wang! In the past, you didn¡¯t argue with her but she knew not of when to quit while she was ahead! As such, Aunt Wang finally showed her no kindness for her arrogance and taught her a little lesson! Aunt Wang sure is kind!¡±


    Having said so made Wang Shi seemed kind and generous with a thought that she did not argue with Old Mistress Zhuang and let her prevail, like a kite in the wind. But today, she had cut the string and had caused Old Mistress Zhuang to return defeated. At sight, Old Mistress Zhuang truly wasn¡¯t her opponent!


    Wang Shi was obviously delightful from those words. She sat up properly and her expression became more gleeful andfortable.


    Taking the opportunity, Gu Fangziughed, ¡°Thisss is usually very intelligent or Aunt Wang would never have let her pass such important instructions! Even though she was reckless on such a day, it didn¡¯t seem intentional! Aunt Wang, why don¡¯t you show some kindness and let her off this time around!¡±


    As of today, Old Mistress Zhuang did not gain the upper hand. With that, nothing else mattered and Wang Shi surely did not put Xiao Que¡¯er¡¯s actions in mind. In addition to Gu Fangzi¡¯s praise, she would have to once again disy her kindness to show that the praise was indeed true. ring at Xiao Que¡¯er she scolded, ¡°Hear that? For Miss Gu to plead for your sake, I shall let you off this time around! If therees a next time, the new debt will be added to the old! Nanny Jiang, remember to tell Lady Wu to cut one month of thisss¡¯s sry! Leave!¡±


    That was considered the lightest of all the punishments. If she were to be assigned to do manualbor, her face would definitely be thrown! Xiao Que¡¯er immediately did a quick kowtow to show gratefulness before standing up hastily and take her leave.


    Gu Fangzi continued to apany Wang Shi, chatting with her and coaxing her for a while before taking her leave. Deep down, Gu Fangzi could not help but be frustrated. Sang Wan truly was not so simple to go against!


    Sang Wan left the courtyard uneasily. With the wind blowing against her face, she strolled for a while before her heart calmed down. In any case, she had already expressed her stance and Wang Shi had seen it. As to how Wang Shi would question Xiao Que¡¯er and her impression of her daughter-inw, Sang Wan understood that it was all out of her control.

 Chapter 25 (V2): Teaching Literacy

    <h4>Chapter 25 (V2): Teaching Literacy</h4>


    But at the very least, Wang Shi would have known that the fault was not just on Sang Wan alone but was a result of another factor should she still be angry towards her.


    ¡°Mistress, you¡¯re back!¡± Liu Ya had already finished writing the characters and was ncing at the door once in a while as she quietly read the literary work which was taught to her yesterday. Seeing Sang Wan enter, she ced the book down and immediately went to fetch a cup of tea.


    ¡°Not able to sit still?¡± After receiving the cup of tea, Sang Wan gave Liu Ya a re.


    Liu Ya rubbed her hands together nervously and smiled at Sang Wan foolishly.


    Sang Wan understood that she could not be too hasty. Changing a behavior was not something that can be aplished overnight. With that in mind, Sang Wan shook her head, ¡°Enough. Let¡¯s call it a day! You may keep the book, but let me take a look at the characters you¡¯ve written!¡±


    ¡°Ai!¡± Liu Ya¡¯s eyes glistened and she nodded gleefully. Immediately taking out a paper which was once nk, she showed it to Sang Wan in fear of her going back on her words. ¡°Mistress, have a look at them! This servant¡¯s writing isn¡¯t too bad, right? This servant isn¡¯tzy and has written every single stroke!¡±


    Hearing her serious tone, Sang Wan could not help but giggle before taking a quick nce at the characters. There were some that were crooked, some that were big and some that were small, and some that were thick and some that were thin, but for those that were too rigid, the strokes looked like branches. The more Sang Wan looked, the funnier it was.


    ¡°How is it? This servant isn¡¯t lying, right?¡± Seeing the smile on Sang Wan¡¯s face, Liu Ya could not help but grin and askedcently.


    ¡°Better than yesterday and the day before!¡± Sang Wan contained herughter and ced the paper aside. Smiling, she praised, ¡°Very good! You¡¯re getting better and better with each passing day.¡±


    After hearing apliment, Liu Ya¡¯s grin broadened. ¡°Then, please have a rest, Mistress. As for what Mistress would like to have for dinner tonight, this servant will go to the kitchen and ask for them to be prepared!¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but sigh. Truly, andscape is easily changed but the behavior is not. Even in the Sang household, Liu Ya could not stay put. To have her remain in the Shi household¡¯s Ning Garden would nevertheless prove to be difficult for her! Just like this, the moment she ced her books down, she was eager to go elsewhere.


    ¡°Go then!¡± Sang Wan smiled helplessly. ¡°Do not stray from the task and do not dy. Return early once you¡¯re done!¡±


    ¡°Yes, this servant understands!¡± Liu Ya promised before rushing off excitedly.


    Sang Wan lifted her gaze and saw Zhide staring at Liu Ya¡¯s masterpiece that was left at a side with a vague smile on her face.


    Aware that her behavior was ill-mannered, she immediately retracted her gaze and smiled. ¡°Mistress.¡±


    ¡°Can you read?¡± Sang Wan asked.


    Zhide¡¯s eyes turned gloomy and she shook her head before forcing augh. ¡°I am nothing but a servant whose life isn¡¯t good enough to learn how to read!¡±


    Sang Wanughed, ¡°Reading isn¡¯t something extraordinary. Aren¡¯t you and Liu Ya simr? Keke, although she may not be as fortunate as you!¡±


    A sudden jolt of desire ran through Zhide and her eyes glistened. Nervously, she stammered, ¡°Mistress...if possible, Mistress, could you maybe...¡±


    ¡°Would you like to learn to read too?¡± Sang Wan finished on her behalf.


    ¡°Yes! This servant is uneducated and hopes Mistress would teach this servant too!¡± Zhide immediately fell on her knees in front of Sang Wan and lowered her head onto the floor.


    She was a maidservant who had more insightspared to the lower ssed maidservants. In the past, she had witnessed the power of literacy after seeing Gu Fangzi providing lots of help to Shi Fengju as a result of knowing how to read. She could not help but have a thought that if she were able to read, she might have greater opportunities to be in a rtionship in the future. And after marriage, she might be of help to her husband and would gain even more of her husband¡¯s respect.


    However, she was just a servant in the end. There was no way she could take the initiative to request being taught how to read. Otherwise, others might think she was harboring evil intentions especially since she was tasked to serve by Young Master Shi¡¯s side. If a string of selfishness were to even be exposed and cause suspicions among others, Miss Gu would definitely not let her off.


    ¡°Quickly, get up!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly leaned forward to help Zhide up and smiled, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to kneel! Teaching a student is just about the same as teaching many. If you¡¯re willing, why don¡¯t you learn together with Liu Ya?¡±


    Hearing so, Zhide was overjoyed and nodded eagerly. ¡°Thank you, Mistress, for your kindness! Thank you, Mistress!¡±


    ¡°Good, good!¡± Sang Wan smiled and waved. Seeing Hong Ye standing restlessly at a side, sheughed, ¡°Would you like to learn too? One more wouldn¡¯t matter, but any more may be toorge of a group for me to handle myself!¡±


    This was an opportunity that could not be missed! Hong Ye¡¯s eyes glistened. Following after Zhide, she kneeled in front of Sang Wan and lowered her head onto the floor before thanking her.


    Sang Wan nodded and smiled, ¡°Then it is said! From tomorrow onward, the two of you will learn together with Liu Ya! Knowing how to read a few words, or even how to write your own name would be good enough. Otherwise, someday in the future, you may be exploited by someone without even knowing it!¡±


    The two could not help but giggle.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Sang Wan continued, ¡°In any case, there isn¡¯t anything that needs to be done at this time, so I¡¯ll give you both half a day off. The both of you will have to get a schr set prepared by then! But if that is not possible, then tomorrow, you¡¯ll first begin learning how to read instead of write!¡±


    The two maidservants were daughters of their family which had been serving the household for over three generations already¡ª¡ªotherwise, Gu Fangzi would never have let them serve Shi Fengju. But on a whole, daughters were much easier to control as they would always have to put their family first while at the same time taking into ount their own reputation.


    However, for these two maidservants, preparing a schr set was not a difficult task. As such, the two agreed to have the sets be prepared by today. Hurriedly, the two withdrew and went to discuss with their family members.


    Soon after, Liu Ya returned from the kitchen. Having heard that Sang Wan had found herself two more students made Liu Ya happy. Finally, there were others to suffer alongside her!


    The kitchen was truly a very well-informed ce and was beyond Sang Wan¡¯s expectations. No wonder Liu Ya kept thinking of going to the kitchen! Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s visit and the incident that happened in the courtyard, the kitchen staff were wildly discussing it. Thus, it was natural for Liu Ya to have returned with an ear full of information. Once she had returned, she passed everything that she had heard to Sang Wan, including what had happened after Sang Wan had left the courtyard: Gu Fangzi plead for a favor, Xiao Que¡¯er was punished with a month without allowance.


    Sure enough, it was Gu Fangzi again! Sang Wan thought to herself.


    ¡°Miss Gu¡¯s mouth sure is capable! It was already clear that Xiao Que¡¯er¡¯s action was deliberate, but that mouth sure was able to persuade to Old Mistress Wang to let that maidservant off so lightly!¡± Liu Ya praised sarcastically. But upon seeing Sang Wan ring at her, Liu Ya immediately apologized, ¡°Yes, yes. This servant has spoken too much! This servant will not speak of it, and will stop!¡±


    Zhide and Hong Ye were both very efficient, or was it their family members that were efficient? But right before dinner, the two had returned with a schr set each.


    As such, Sang Wan smiled and ced out two tables before instructing them to rearrange their schr set neatly on it.


    Zhide and Hong Ye understood and ced the brush, ink, paper, and ink b neatly onto their table. Eyeing the set on the tables, the two developed a deep satisfaction and could not help but grin. The glisten in their eyes shone brightly which made Sang Wan feel somewhat embarrassed.


    ¡°Mistress, why don¡¯t we begin tonight?¡± From the sight of the brand new set and the nk white paper, Hong Ye¡¯s hands were itching to try them out.


    Liu Ya sneered and scolded, ¡°What ¡®we¡¯, ¡®we¡¯? Mistress is good to you and you now bring along a pole to get above her head? Why don¡¯t you look at what time it is now? Instead of bringing the dinner over, you ask to start learning tonight? Do you think our Mistress is made out of steel and doesn¡¯t need rest?¡±


    The young mistress and young master were both newlyweds! Together with Liu Ya¡¯s words, there was actually no reason for Sang Wan to pay any attention to the two servants.


    In that instant, Hong Ye regretted her words. Her face flushed red and she hurriedly sought for forgiveness. ¡°This servant was careless, this servant was careless! Mistress, please forgive this servant! This servant dare not make the same mistake again!¡±


    ¡°Enough, Liu Ya was only speaking her mind! Bute to think of it, I¡¯m a little hungry. Bring the dishes over then!¡± Sang Wan gestured with a grin.


    What Hong Ye said just then was definitely a little too arrogant. Even though that was not a reason to have Sang Wan punish her, it was also not one where she could be too overly kind with. A master is a master and a servant is a servant, there must be a clear line between these two titles to prevent any undesired oues between them. Having been reborn, she could never be too generous.


    ¡°Yes, this servant will go and inform the kitchen staff!¡± Hong Ye felt relieved seeing that Sang Wan did not me her. With an opportunity in front of her to atone, she hurriedly epted the task and left.


    Zhide and Liu Ya helped Sang Wan with washing her hands before the three left for the small flower pavilion that was recently changed to a dining pavilion. ¡°Young Mistress, should you¡ª¡ªnot wait for Young Master? Although he may be busy and return a littleter than usual.¡± Surely, he wouldn¡¯t deliberately not return to apany Young Mistress?


    Having done a favor sure is different. Sang Wan thought. In the past, having Zhide take the initiative was as difficult as ascending the heavens, let alone saying those precious words.


    ¡°No need. Just have my portion be served. We¡¯ll see how when Lord returns!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    In any case, she and Shi Fengju were just a fake couple. Since he was not her day, there was no need to treat him as if he truly were her day.


    On further thought, even if she were to have her meal first, Shi Fengju would definitely not mind.


    Zhide and Liu Ya looked at each other subconsciously before agreeing in unison. They arranged her te and utensils in front of her, and once Hong Ye returned with the dishes, they were served one after another.


    In total, there were four dishes and a soup; Glutinous pumpkin rice with steamed pork slices, saut¨¦ed shrimps with broli, omelette, stir-fried lettuce, chicken with lotus and yam soup, and a bowl of fragrant white rice.


    Even though Sang Wan was eating alone, she did not feel downcast or gloomy. Her behavior and expression were calm, and with a good appetite, she finished half a bowl of rice and drank half a bowl of soup.


    Secretly, Zhide admired Sang Wan. If she were not open-minded and generous, she would not have been able to behave the way she was now. Young Mistress truly is iparable! Unfortunately, Young Master had already given his heart to Miss Gu. What a disappointment that was!


    After all, even if it were others, who would be able to handle their husband treating them so coldly right after the wedding? Many would probably have to force themselves to endure, but their expression would have definitely exposed it all.


    ¡°These dishes taste good! Have someone send your rice in and have your meal here! If these dishes aren¡¯t enough, have all your dishes be brought in then!¡± Sang Wan smiled and got up.


    The three maidservants quickly said their thanks. Hong Ye went out and returned with three food boxes and the three enjoyed their meal as they stood at the side of the table.


    After a while, the master and servants had finished their dinner. But by then, the darkness had enveloped the sky and a candle was lit in the chamber. With a task that binds all four of them, they could not help but agree that the atmosphere today was exceptionally great; a warm atmosphere that none of them could bear to destroy.

 Chapter 26 (V2): Frustration

    <h4>Chapter 26 (V2): Frustration</h4>


    ¡°Well, since we¡¯re all idling now, why don¡¯t I teach the two of you how to rub ink on your ink b and how to hold your brush?¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Eager to learn, Zhide and Hong Ye nodded immediately. ¡°Then this servant shall light a few more candles to brighten up the chamber!¡± Hong Ye smiled.


    The me on the candles swayed; the chamber was brightly lit. Zhide and Hong Ye stood at a side and stared deeply at Sang Wan as she demonstrated how the ink should be rubbed. After the demonstration, Sang Wan had them settled down before teaching them how to hold a brush.


    However, it was senseless to just have them hold a brush in their hand. As such, Sang Wan simply went on to write two simple characters that had only a few numbers of strokes and have them learn how to write them while getting them used to the feeling of holding a brush at the same time. She assigned Liu Ya to guide Hong Ye while she taught Zhide. Not too longter, the four, master and servants, were all absorbed in the session.


    Under the dim moonlight, Shi Fengju returned and was faced with a sight.


    In the chamber were four people, but his sight was subconsciously set on one of them. Against the soft and gentle lighting, the person who was dressed in a in turquoise colored clothes had her body leaned against Zhide¡¯s back and her head lowered. Her mouth was opened as she spoke of something very softly and her hand was firmly grasped onto Zhide¡¯s hand as she guided her to write.


    The light outlined her entire side with soft lines. Her eyebrows, earlobe, and the tip of her nose were faintly outlined, but the most distinct were the lines that intersected at the edge of her lips. Right above her temples that were behind a curtain of ck hair slid a hairpin with a rounded jasper head, and a smooth-rounded pearl hanging from her ear. From his angle, the woman looked gentle and beautiful to a point where one could not help but want to embrace her from behind.


    At that moment, Shi Fengju was in a daze and his heart was ovee with tranquility. He could not bear to destroy such a beautiful sight with his presence and thus decided to leave quietly. However, Liu Ya lifted her head all of a sudden and he was spotted.


    ¡°Young Master...Young Master!¡± Liu Ya, who was teaching Hong Ye, frantically let go of her hand and stood up.


    Startled, the other three immediately stopped what they were doing. Zhide and Hong Ye hurriedly stood up and bowed uneasily, as if they hadmitted a bad deed.


    Since he was already spotted, heughed and stepped into the chamber. Sweeping a nce, he smiled at Sang Wan and asked, ¡°Teaching them how to recognize characters?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Sang Wan smiled, ¡°There was nothing to do, so I thought it would be good to teach them how to recognize a few characters and have them prepared!¡±


    ¡°That is true!¡± Shi Fengju did not mind and continued, ¡°It¡¯s already nightfall. Teaching them tomorrow when the sun is up again isn¡¯t toote.¡±


    ¡°That was my intention, but I¡¯d just wanted them to get used to holding a brush tonight, that¡¯s all!¡± Sang Wan answered.


    Zhide restlessly smiled, ¡°Then, has Young Master had dinner yet?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face suddenly reddened and she spoke embarrassedly, ¡°I wasn¡¯t sure when you¡¯ll be back, but I was hungry so I went ahead to have mine first! Still, the food is warm. If you haven¡¯t eaten anything yet, would you like to have them now?¡±


    In that instant, Shi Fengju felt a sense of disappointment. He was disappointed at his ¡®wife¡¯ for not showing any concern towards him as it was not her who asked first but the maidservant, Zhide. Looking at Sang Wan¡¯s expression, it seemed that regardless whether he returned or not, her appetite would not have been affected, right? The more the thought circled in his mind, the more ufortable his heart felt.


    There he went, worrying that she might be ced in a difficult spot if he was not there to apany her since they were a newlywed! Very good, it seems that she had no need for him anymore since she was now able to get along well with two of the maidservants!


    Saddened, a string of annoyance sprouted in his heart. His brows rose a little and he spoke indifferently, ¡°No need. I¡¯m not hungry. I¡¯ve some things to do so I¡¯ll head to the study room. You, cough! I¡¯ll head off now!¡± With that, he instructed Zhide to bring him a change of clothes and left.


    He had wanted to add ¡°Sleep first if you¡¯re sleepy, no need to wait for me!¡± Since this person could eat without waiting for him, then if she were tired, she would have just gone to sleep; there was definitely no need for him to tell her, right? Yes, that definitely was the case! Shi Fengju smiled to himself. Their rtionship was as such where it was not even as close as friends or even as business partners. Going by that, why should she show thoughts for him?


    ¡°Young Master does not... does not seem happy! Young Mistress, don¡¯t you think so?¡± Seeing that Shi Fengju and Zhide had left, Liu Ya asked Sang Wan.


    Hong Ye¡¯s expression slightly changed and she asked worriedly, ¡°It couldn¡¯t be because of us learning from Young Mistress which made Young Master unhappy, right? Young Mistress, that¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t say!¡± Liu Ya immediately scolded, ¡°To trouble Young Mistress at night, Young Master would definitely not be happy! I think it should be canceled!¡±


    Hearing those words, Hong Ye became even more embarrassed. She apologized and quickly went to clear away the schr sets.


    ¡°Lord isn¡¯t so intolerant! The two of you are thinking too much! There¡¯s no such thing! I don¡¯t see anything wrong with him, he may be tired today which could have affected his mood.¡± Sang Wan leisurelyughed.


    It seemed that might have been so. As such, Liu Ya and Hong Ye felt somewhat more at ease and did not give it a second thought.


    When the three stepped out of the chamber, Shi Fengju had already changed his clothes and left. Zhide called out to Sang Wan, but her behavior seemed a little flustered.


    Sang Wan sighed discreetly and instructed, ¡°Go and check whether the food is still warm. If they are, pack them nicely in a food box. Zhide, follow me to the study roomter. Liu Ya, Hong Ye, the two of you will prepare the hot water.¡±


    Shi Fengju was definitely unhappy; Liu Ya could sense it, and so could she. Though Sang Wan was unsure where the problem lies, she was sure that it was partly her fault. Shi Fengju was her ally in the Shi household whom she could rely on. If he were angry, she certainly could not pretend not to know.


    Zhide understood that Sang Wan was going to send dinner over to the young master. Only when the masters are living at peace would the maidservants have a better life. The three maidservants seemed to have been affected by the subtle atmosphere but were d to hear that Sang Wan was going to take the initiative to show her goodwill. Hurriedly, the three went off to their assigned task.


    Soon after, Zhide returned while carrying the food box.


    Sang Wan lifted the lid and took a look. The food in the box was steaming hot, their color still fresh, and the aroma delightful to the nose. Putting the lid back, she gestured Zhide to follow her.


    Shi Fengju had actually nothing that required him to return to his study room. As it was all too sudden this time around, the young servant who was tasked to serve in the study room had already taken this chance knowing that Shi Fengju would not return anytime soon and went out to y with his friends. When Shi Fengju entered the room with Zhan Huan, the incense was not burnt, neither was there any pastry nor fruits left, and the tea was already cooled. There was not a soul in the study room.


    ¡°One by one, these servants sure are getting on my nerves!¡± Filled with rage, Shi Fengju mmed his palm on the desk. After returning home from a long and busy day, his face was not yet washed nor was there a cup of hot tea prepared for him, and not to mention his hungry stomach. If he were able to hold back his anger, he could have already be a saint.


    However, he was never a saint to begin with.


    ¡°Young Master, no need to get angry at them. Those yful youngsters, this servant shall punish them tomorrow! This servant will go and have someone bring in some tea!¡± Zhan Huan could not help but lowered his head and smiled.


    ¡°Go now!¡± Putting up with the anger within him, he added, ¡°go and bring in some water first, I want to wash my face! Also, go check if there¡¯s anything to eat and send some over!¡±


    ¡°Yes! Yes!¡± Zhan Huan strangely cast a nce at his own master and thought to himself: Is something going on? If there isn¡¯t any business to be done in the study room, why not return to Ning Garden? Why eat in the study room? Did Young Master quarrel with Young Mistress? That can¡¯t be! Young Master just returned to the household not too long ago! What¡¯s more, Young Mistress is the new daughter-inw, and is both kind and gentle in temperament! There isn¡¯t a reason...


    On the outside, he agreed to Shi Fengju¡¯s request, but he could not help but ponder on the inside. On the way out, he turned back and asked with a smile, ¡°Then, Young Master, what would you like to eat? This servant shall¡ª¡ª¡± Seeing Shi Fengju ring coldly, Zhan Huan was startled and immediately changed his tone, ¡°This servant will go to the kitchen and take a look!¡±


    With that said, he left quickly like a stream of vapor.


    Not long after, two servants, Qian He and Qian Xiang, entered the study room. One carried the tea and the other carried the water for facial wash. The two did not expect the young master to return so soon and thus felt a little guilty.


    The annoyance in Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was finally lifted a little and he instructed Qian Xiang to ce the basin on the shelf. Seeing the servant stand at a side after cing the basin down, Shi Fengju let out a silent sigh. He grabbed the towel that hung at the side of the basin and dipped it into the water.


    He had not expected the water to be a little too hot, and the moment he dunked both his hands into the water, he jumped and let out a shriek. Qian Xiang became startled and hurriedly went to apologize. ¡°This servant deserves to die, this servant deserves to die! This servant will return with some cold water!¡±


    ¡°Forget it, there¡¯s no need to do so!¡± Shi Fengju tried to contain his cold expression. Even though the water was not prepared as well as how Zhide, Hong Ye, and the rest of them would, the temperature was still considered alright by adding a little care when cing his hands into the water. All the more, he was just toozy to have things made too difficult! Carefully, he wrung the towel before wiping his face.


    The warm steam rushed across his face and the tight pores opened. After a quick wipe, the exhaustion was swept away and Shi Fengju closed his eyesfortably before letting out a deep sigh.


    Washing his face casually was enough, and the water was of course just water; there was no flower syrup or readied soap added. As such, he was not expecting much from the servant. He had already experienced worse when doing his business and the traffic he had to face to and fro. The more he endured, the less time he had to pay attention to the minor events. With that, there was no need for him to explode his anger over something so trivial.


    Not too longter, the temperature of the hot water went down. Shi Fengju washed his face and hands with the cooled water thoroughly, and his expression turned a little for the better. Leaning onto the back of his chair, he gestured to Qian He to bring the tea over.


    Qian He hurriedly served the tea to him.


    Shi Fengju lifted the lid of the teacup and looked inside, only to see that the tea leaves were still lumped together and was floating beneath the surface of the water. It seems the temperature of the water was not enough.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s desire to drink tea disappeared. ¡°Pa¡±, the lid was ced back onto the cup and was ced at a side. He waved at the servants listlessly. ¡°Leave! All of you, leave!¡±


    Qian He nced at the teacup in grief. Wasn¡¯t the top quality tea leaves used? What a waste!


    Qian Xiang and Qian He hurriedly left. After they had left, Sang Wan entered together with Zhide.


    Not seeing Sang Wan would have been better. At the sight of her, Shi Fengju was reminded of her dullness towards him and the careless actions of his servants. In an instant, his heart red and he frowned, ¡°Why have youe? Is there something you need?¡±


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes discreetly. Was this all because she had not waited for him to return before having her meal? If that was it, he could have just said so and she would haveplied.


    For a man to give the newlywed bride face, Sang Wan did not think that there was anything for him to be embarrassed about if he were to voice his thoughts out.


    ¡°No matter how busy you are, shouldn¡¯t disregard your body! Why don¡¯t you have your meal first?¡± Sang Wan spoke gently and ordered Zhide to ce the food box down. As she opened it, she smiled, ¡°These are Lord¡¯s favorite food: pine nuts with sliced pork, beancurd with eight treasures, stir-fried sliced chicken with egg, dried fried whitebait, and seafood soup with bamboo shoots. Have them while they¡¯re warm. Once cooled, they¡¯ll not taste as good!¡±

 Chapter 27 (V2): The Sour Cousin

    <h4>Chapter 27 (V2): The Sour Cousin</h4>


    Shi Fengju had wanted to make things a little more difficult for her by not eating, but his belly, however, was intolerably hungry and his mouth was extremely thirsty. Partially by force and by desire, he epted. But who would have known that Zhan Huan would barge into the room so soon? In a loud voice, he spoke, ¡°Young Master, the fire stoves in the kitchen had already been put out. Auntie Li says that the dishes prepared had already been sent away to their respective chambers. Why don¡¯t this servant go to Ning Garden to grab some dishes for Young Master? Oh, or maybe this servant can ask Auntie Li to prepare a bowl of noodles to help youst through the night? Oh, this servant was afraid that Young Master cannot wait any longer and brought with me a te of cakes and cookies!¡±


    As if honoring Shi Fengju with the presence of a treasure, Zhan Huan presented the te of cakes and cookies. But only then did he realize that Sang Wan and Zhide were standing in front, and his own master¡¯s face was now extremely darkened.


    How could Shi Fengju not be angry? At Ning Garden, he had gracefully told Sang Wan that he was not hungry. But at this very moment, he was caught red-handed by Sang Wan! Zhan Huan¡¯s words had seemed somewhat piercing.


    Zhide wanted tough but dare not do so. With a straight face, she acted as if she had not heard Zhan Huan. And as for Zhan Huan, he was unaware of what had happened in Ning Garden. Smiling naturally at Sang Wan, he bowed, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯vee!¡±


    Sang Wan chuckled to herself but did not reveal it on the surface. Looking towards Zhan Huan, she nodded and smiled, ¡°This te of pastries shall be your reward. You may eat them! I¡¯ll take care of your master from here, so you may take your leave first!¡±


    Zhan Huan subconsciously nced at his master whose face was still darkened and grinned, ¡°Young Mistress sure does care a lot for Young Master, then this servant shall take his leave now!¡± With that, he lowered his head and skidded away.


    ¡°That dog!¡± Shi Fengju snorted angrily.


    ¡°Lord, please!¡± Sang Wan knew that she shouldn¡¯t wait any longer for any longer and Shi Fengju¡¯s embarrassment would definitely be fed to his anger. As such, she led him to a seat and gestured to Zhide to take out the dishes from the food box before serving a bowl of soup to Shi Fengju personally.


    When Shi Fengju saw that she did not make fun of him, with her expression the same as if she had not heard Zhan Huan, his heart calmed down. He had wanted to say something but after a second thought would have sounded a little too harsh and wipe them away from his mind. Quietly on the seat, he slowly received the dishes one after another.


    A mouth full of delicious soup went down his throat and his appetite was suddenly woken up from its slumber. Filled with energy, Shi Fengju spoke warmly to Sang Wan, ¡°That¡¯s enough. Zhide will stay and serve me. You may go back first!¡±


    He had already said that he had things to do. Regardless of whether that was true, he had to sit in the study room for a little while longer to justify his words.


    ¡°Alright then. I¡¯ll head off first! Lord, do return and rest early. Don¡¯t stay up toote!¡± Sang Wan nodded. Smiling at Zhide, she went on to instruct her, ¡°Brew a pot of good tea for Lord,ter on, to help him with his digestion. And if there¡¯s any fresh melons or fruits, have someone prepare them and bring them in. Do not forget!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Zhide bowed as she answered.


    Shi Fengju took a quick glimpse at her and his heart felt somewhat morefortable. To live was to serve; that was definitely not something males can do! For her to be willing to even act out the part, it must have been tough for her!


    As the thought wandered in his mind, his heart could not help but feel apologetic towards Sang Wan. Putting a soft tone, he smiled and spoke to her, ¡°No need to go through the trouble. The things I have to do tonight isn¡¯t much. I¡¯ll return very soon! Oh yes, if you¡¯re tired, you may rest first!¡±


    Reciprocating the favor, the people before our time sure were wise! Sang Wan thought to herself. She answered back with a smile on her face and left.


    But who would have known, before Sang Wan arrived back at Ning Garden, she heard someone call for her from behind. Halting her footsteps, she turned to see who it was. Her eyes widened, ¡°Zhide? Why did you not remain to serve Lord?¡±


    Sang Wan almost thought that it was because Shi Fengju was concerned for her walking back alone and specifically asked Zhide to apany, which would have scored him a few positive points in her heart. But seeing Zhide acting a little flustered and reluctant to speak, Sang Wan¡¯s heart sank at once.


    It was needless to say as she understood.


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi went into the study room?¡± Sang Wan asked faintly.


    Everyone in the household, including Wang Shi, would carry a strange expression when mentioning Gu Fangzi. It was as if telling her that Gu Fangzi was a scourge.


    But on that thought, it seemed that was really so, was it not?


    ¡°Yes,¡± Since Sang Wan had already spoken, Zhide could only nod. But she hurriedly added, ¡°Young Mistress, you may not know this but Miss Gu has provided lots of help to Young Master in his business these few years, and has many matters to discuss with him. So that might have been the case.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already heard from my mother-inw that my cousin-inw is a very capabledy.¡± Sang Wan smiled, her brows still gentle as usual.


    Zhide could not help but feel sympathy for Sang Wan. In all fairness, if it were someone else stuck in such a position, that person may have been plunged into a deep depression! Young Mistress sure has it tough. Zhide wanted to voice out a fewforting words for Sang Wan, but as their rtionship was not very close, she held those words back.


    Master and servant, the two walked back to Ning Garden with not a single word spoken.


    At heart, Sang Wan was deep in thought. Gu Fangzi sure was well informed. Gu Fangzi must have known that she had entered the study room, and also what came after. Once she had seen Sang Wan leave, she would definitely want to go into the study room herself to do a check. Sang Wan began to wonder... Gu Fangzi had him eyed so closely, like a predator eyeing its prey; does Shi Fengju not mind at all?


    She shook her head slightly. That person¡¯s eye for beauty was a little strange to begin with anyway.


    However, what Sang Wan did not know was that even Shi Fengju was now beginning to find Gu Fangzi¡¯s behavior intolerable. He suddenly received a faint feeling that his former cousin and the cousin now were two different persons. The former was considerate, lively and cheerful, bold and calm, has a decent amount of courage that not many women would have, and not to mention her confidence. Those were the elements that attracted him.


    The Shi family; arge family and has arge business. His wife must not only be able to manage the inside of the household, but also be of help to the business. As for many of the confidential business affairs, he would not easily disclose them even to his most trusted servant; however, his wife would be a different case as they are one.


    To be given a chance to marry a wife who is important on the outside and inside of the household, like-minded, and also his childhood friend, was truly difficult to find. As a result, he valued her and held her very dearly.


    However, the feeling that she gave him was gradually bing different. He could not fully describe the feeling, but all he could tell was that it was very different.


    In the past, for example, she would not look at him with eyes of doubt while asking him again and again, ¡°Really? You aren¡¯t lying?¡±. She would also not constantly go about unting at him the number of grievances she had to endure and the number of times she had to give in. But most importantly, she would not speak sourly of other women in front of him, Sang Wan for instance.


    In the past, she would not mind him apanying his business friends to drink in the brothel or if he went boating on a pleasure boat. All she would do was give him a light smile, or at the most joke with him a little.


    What he liked about her was that self-confidence! Confident in herself, and also in him.


    He could sense that her confidence was slowly wearing thin. But in fact, she had absolutely no need to do so!


    Sang Wan and Zhide had already returned to Ning Garden. But in the study room, Shi Fengju was not able to finish his dinner. He was too busy trying to make himself clear and to coax Gu Fangzi. Once he was finally able to convince Gu Fangzi sessfully, the dishes were already long cooled and his appetite had already vanished.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Big Cousin, it¡¯s all my fault. Why don¡¯t I have someone bring in some snacks?¡± Gu Fangzi spoke apologetically to Shi Fengju, however, she was secretly satisfied ¨C Shi Fengju definitely still cared about her, to have ced her as his priority. It seemed the only way to hold onto a man¡¯s heart is to constantly remind him. Only then will he pay more attention to her.


    Seeing that Shi Fengju nodded, Gu Fangzi ordered Lan Xiang to bring some snacks over from the Peony Park. The dishes that Sang Wan brought, hmph, not eating them would be for the best! What a disgust it is to even look at those dishes!


    ¡°Tomorrow night, I¡¯ll be sure to have the kitchen prepare a few of your favorite food as an apology!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled. Her eyes glistened and she added cheekily, ¡°How about we go to the Lotus Jade Restaurant for lunch tomorrow? Speaking of which, it has been quite a long time since we ate outside together! Tomorrow¡¯s lunch will be on me, how about it?¡±


    Gu Fangzi grinned broadly with a face of expectancy. Shi Fengju could not help but smile with her. Even though she may have a little temper in her, but it was all because she cared for him ah!


    Just when he was about to agree, an image of Sang Wan¡¯s delicate face shed across his eyes. The Jade Lotus Restaurant was the Shi¡¯s own business; one of the best restaurant in Qingzhou. If he were to go there with his cousin, how would others view of Sang Wan?


    ¡°Tomorrow...I¡¯ve to head over to the pier to check the goods stored in the warehouse and might only return at night. Let¡¯s just forget it!¡± Afraid that Gu Fangzi might add ae back by postponing to ater date, Shi Fengju went on, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I may be busy these few days. After the Double Fifth Festival, I¡¯ll have to bring along a fleet to the capital, so these few days, the goods at the pier are of great importance!¡±


    The smile on Gu Fangzi¡¯s face vanished and her face stiffened. Her brow raised and she stared at Shi Fengju suspiciously. Shi Fengju strongly suppressed the dislike that was in his heart and awaited for her to question him. Fortunately, Gu Fangzi did not continue with the raised topic and nodded, ¡°Ah that, I almost forgot! It¡¯s a good thing that there isn¡¯t much to be done in the household these few days, why don¡¯t I apany you to the pier and help you with the tallying of the goods, okay?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t the Double Fifth Festivaling? The household still has to prepare for the festival; I¡¯ll be fine managing the things at the pier myself!¡± Shi Fengju quickly answered.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression was immediately dampened, and only after a moment of silence did she respond. ¡°Alright! Since Big Cousin¡¯s mind has already been set, Fangzi has no other way but toply. Everything shall be taken charge by Big Cousin; Fangzi will follow!¡±


    Her partially hidden yet exposed specious words once again gave Shi Fengju a headache. His brows creased slight but he forced augh, ¡°I knew you¡¯re a sensible one.¡±


    Gu Fangzi gave an ¡®En¡¯ and said nothing more. She had clearly seen the crease on his forehead!


    Shi Fengju¡¯s temper had surfaced. Having been busy for a whole day, he dragged his tired mind and body back home; who wouldn¡¯t want to enjoy afortable moment of peace and warmth? Who in the right mind would be able to gather strength just to stoop topromise? If the person in front wasn¡¯t Gu Fangzi, he would have already red up.


    ¡°Enough, please go back first! And apany my mother for me!¡± Shi Fengju smiled reluctantly and said without waiting for Lan Xiang who had left to bring him snacks.


    Seeing the dull attitude he had towards her and his unwillingness to speak any further, she grunted and left. On her way, she ran into Lan Xiang and called out to her. The two, master and servant, headed back to the Peony Park.

 Chapter 28 (V2): Books

    <h4>Chapter 28 (V2): Books</h4>


    Having waited for a long while, Lan Xiang had not yet arrived. Shi Fengju dered that his cousin might have, due to temper, stopped the maidservant and dragged her back.


    Shi Fengjuughed bitterly. His stomach was burning with hunger, but the dishes on the table were already cold; surely, there¡¯s a way to get through the day!


    Nevermind! Skipping a meal wouldn¡¯t kill me! He, whocked nothing the moment he was out of his mother¡¯s womb, had finally experienced his first taste of hunger. ¡°Hunger is only psychological and fatigue is physical¡± ¨C he chanted these words silently to himself and went to grab a book from the bookshelf to kill time. He nned to return to Ning Gardenter in the night to have Zhide prepare supper. Despite not eating supper in the past, there was nothing wrong with eating it today. He was a master, was he not?


    But who would have thought the first line he would read was ¡°marinate the saury in a te with mead and season thoroughly with sauce......simmer with ham broth, bamboo shoots broth, and chicken broth till perfection...¡± He closed the book at looked at its cover. On the cover were fourrge and distinct words ¡¶Garden of Food Recipes¡·.


    Shi Fengju immediately felt the hunger, that was previously suppressed, rising up to his head. Swallowing a lump in his throat, he angrily dumped the book as far as possible before throwing himself onto the chair and closing his eyes to rest his mind.


    After a long half an hour of silence, Shi Fengju felt that it was time to leave. He instructed Zhan Huan to tidy the study room and left for Ning Garden by himself.


    Behind a ck pomegranate tree, two female figures quietly revealed themselves as they gazed at the back of the male figure who was heading towards Ning Garden. One was burning with jealousy while the other had the look of panic and fear.


    ¡°There you went, advising me to return and send him food. Just look at that, it hasn¡¯t even been an hour and that person already couldn¡¯t wait any longer! Meddlesome!¡± Gu Fangzi red at Lan Xiang coldly and grunted.


    Lan Xiang swallowed her lips. Her head was lowered and she did not dare to squeal as she was sure it was her fault for being meddlesome.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go! Not going back? Here to have a taste of the wind, are we?¡± Gu Fangzi stared at a delicate flower hatefully and crushed it in her hand.


    Sang Wan, Sang Wan... that woman, that dreadful woman! She believed there woulde a time when she would reign over that woman!


    When Shi Fengju returned to Ning Garden, Sang Wan had not slept. Tonight, Shi Fengju was being overly sensitive, so naturally, she should be a little more careful.


    Seeing Shi Fengju return from the study room after a short while, Sang Wan was sure she had a pretty clear idea of the situation. Quickly, she smiled and called out to him before serving him by adding the tea leaves and pouring the water.


    ¡°Take a seat. Let the servants do it!¡± Her actions made him feel a little apologetic and he smiled.


    Sang Wan did not insist and sat with a chuckle. The servants prepared the tea in perfect order and Sang Wan sat to observe.


    Shi Fengju hesitantly took a quick glimpse at Sang Wan discreetly. Her eyes were bright and her expression which showed no sign of wanting to head to bed ignited a war in his heart. In the end, there was no way of winning against the fiery rage from his stomach; giving a faint cough, he ordered Zhide. ¡°Have the kitchen prepare a bowl of noodles for my supper. Go!¡±


    Sang Wan and Zhide nced at each other subconsciously for a moment. Their thoughts were truly on the same page ¨C Shi Fengju just had his dinner not too long ago, and now he already wants supper?


    ¡°What are you standing nkly there for? Go quickly!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s expression had signs of awkwardness and Sang Wan immediately detected it after casting a nce at him. As such, she looked at Zhide deeply. Turning back to Shi Fengju, she slightly smiled, ¡°Forgive me for not having seen the bigger picture. If only I had known that you would returnte today, I would have requested the kitchen to prepare your meal a littleter! Having been ready for a long time, the meal must not have tasted great! Again I apologize, but the fire in the kitchen stoves has already been put out and the kitchen staff has already left for home! If you¡¯d like...¡±


    An opportunity was now knocking at her door; taking this chance, sheughed, ¡°tomorrow when I pay my visit to Mother, I would like to suggest opening up a small kitchen in Ning Garden. That would provide a lot more convenience for you to have your meal! Anytime, the stove can be lit and there will be no need to worry about the main kitchen!¡±


    For something so trivial, Shi Fengju was not very concerned. However, as her suggestion was good, he nodded. ¡°Then have it so. Tomorrow, bring that up to my mother.¡±


    ¡°Good! I¡¯ll be sure to ask Mother tomorrow.¡± Sang Wan promised. Deep down, she was grateful for the unexpected opportunity. Gu Fangzi had made her put her guard up; who would ever know when Gu Fangzi might begin meddling with the meals in the main kitchen? It would definitely be better to open a small kitchen within her domain. If this opportunity were to pass, there would not be any other chance for her to bring her suggestion up again. By telling on Gu Fangzi, the mother and son would definitely not believe her, not to mention letting her make the decision.


    Sitting opposite each other was not a thing for the two. But upon seeing a book left at a side after taking a nce at Sang Wan, Shi Fengju raised, ¡°Ai, what¡¯s that book you were reading?¡±


    Sang Wan willingly closed the book and faced the indigo-colored cover to him. ¡°¡¶Records of the Ten Continents¡·!¡± and added, ¡°I was just killing the spare time I had!¡±


    Shi Fengju was slightly surprised and smiled, ¡°to think you actually like reading that! In the past, a man following the way of the martial arts was obsessed with immortality. Unsatisfied as his heart deeply yearned for it, he went to consult a schr, Dongfang Shuo. That record was then made into a book. On the note, he was actually forced to make up something, which was unfortunately believed by many to be true. As a result, the record was spread far and wide but it was nevertheless a lie in the end!¡±


    Sang Wan did not expect Shi Fengju to have knowledge about this book. In an instant, her eyes glistened; leaning her head to a side, she spoke, ¡°Even though it was made up, it is still mysteriously interesting! ¡®Shengzhou was located northeast of the Eastern Sea, fabled to be connected to Peni at a length of eighty-five million meters. That ce was also said to be one million two hundred fifty thousand meters in length! Two hundred and thirty miles away from it, there¡¯s the Eastern An, home to many immortals. There, the sky is always calm and the grass never dies. The temperature is never hot nor cold and is home to many other different animals. Also, there are the many different types of immortal grass growing on the many mountain formations formed there. Surrounding the continent, the water tastes sweet just like fruit syrup.¡¯ Just listen to that, it sure is interesting! If only there were such interesting continents beneath the heavens, how wonderful would that be?¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but chuckle after hearing so. ¡°Not bad! Its strangeness truly makes it interesting! Like those ¡®wine springs¡¯, ¡®beautiful gold grass¡¯, and others like ¡®immortal grass, that grows on jade fields, named the Yangshen Zhi. Dispersed by spores under its leaves, a stalk is all that¡¯s needed to resurrect the dead and can also cause the living to never die.¡¯ That is all just too fictitious! Only the foolish ones would believe in the book after reading it!¡±


    Hearing so, Sang Wan could not help but angrily red at Shi Fengju humorously. She pouted at him and spoke in annoyance, ¡°Just who is foolish? I¡¯ve only read the book casually and spoke what was in my head. Mind you, there are those who do not believe in it and keep every word to heart but would still speak of it thoughtlessly!¡±


    Underneath the soft light, the youngdy in front of him looked angry, yet not angry; both shy and annoyed; and her gaze was bright and clear. Under such lighting, it revealed an exceptional beauty and indulgence. At that moment, Shi Fengju was in a daze and his heart was somewhat affected a little.


    Sang Wan immediately felt a sense of embarrassment and regret after those words left her mouth. Their rtionship was not at a point of familiarity where she could act so freely, so how could she have spoken to him in such a way ¡ª¡ª


    A moment of silence filled the chamber and a heavy sense of awkwardness sank.


    ¡°Ke,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s hand was clenched and he softly coughed into it. Awkwardly, he smiled, ¡°Actually, my memory is quite good! Oh yes, I¡¯ve the ¡¶Great Tang Records on the Western Regions¡·, ¡¶A Brief ount of Ind Barbarians¡·, ¡¶Misceneous Morsels from Youyang¡·, ¡¶The Eastern Capital: A Dream of Splendor¡·, and many others ¨C they¡¯re fiction books that are interesting. If you¡¯d like to have a read, I¡¯ll have someone retrieve it for you tomorrow.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s bashfulness diminished a little and she lifted her gaze onto him. ¡°I¡¯ve already read those. Do you have something else?¡±


    Shi Fengju became a little more surprised. ¡°¡¶Superfluous Things¡·? ¡¶Misceneous Records of the Western Capital¡·?¡± But seeing Sang Wan remaining silent, he pped his hands andughed, ¡°Your Sang family truly is¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes slightly darkened as she seemed to have recalled something and her mood became somewhat low. Forcing a smile, she spoke, ¡°At home, my big brother and sister-inw cares a lot for me, especially my big brother. Never would he allow me to do any work like any other girls from other families. The books that my father left for us were many; other than the authoritative books of Confucianism and the teaching of Confucius and Mencius, I¡¯ve already read a variety of the other books from burying my head deep into the pile of books.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s tone was touched with a slight amount of self-ridicule. What use was there for reading so many books? Recalling her past life, all it brought was chaos to her life!


    Shi Fengju felt a little ufortable all of a sudden. He had seen how protective Sang Hong was to his younger sister. He carefully brought her up in the small household, all to carry out the n of having her marry into the Shi family. Being the young mistress of the Shi household, it would be natural that she should not be someone who was once a vige girl working in the farnd. Otherwise, she would be looked down upon by others when she married in.


    ¡°Still, my memory isn¡¯t as great as Lord¡¯s; as time passed, I may have already forgotten them. Given a chance to read them again isn¡¯t bad! ¡¶Old News Under the Heavens¡·, ¡¶Tales of the Old Capital¡·, ¡¶Superfluous Things¡· and many other of the old records, looking at them again won¡¯t get me bored!¡± Sang Wan quickly recovered the sense of sadness andughed as she gazed at Shi Fengju brightly.


    ¡°That¡¯s easy. I¡¯ve them in my study room. Just request the name of the book to a servant and it¡¯ll be brought over! Also, there¡¯re a number of notebooks rting to poetry. If you¡¯re not busy tomorrow, you can go there personally and pick a few for yourself!¡± Shi Fengju raised.


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded. After mentioning a few more books, she and Shi Fengju spoke for a little more longer. On the topic of poetry, her interest and familiarity in it were lower aspared to old records. Fortunately, Shi Fengju liked to read magazines rting to geographical phenomenons. As such, the two spoke with enough interactions and the atmosphere be lively.


    But deep down, Shi Fengju could not help butugh. His dislike for poetry was due to a reason. Even though his reason might seem a little funny, it was deeply linked to Sang Wan.


    In the past, Wang Shi was afraid that Sang Wan, her soon-to-be daughter-inw, might be too knowledgeable and might step above her son¡¯s head in time toe after their marriage. As such, she instructed a head servant to purchase a list of poetry books back. She ordered her son to study them from day and night all so that he would not lose to his future wife.


    Because Shi Fengju¡¯s heart only had Gu Fangzi, his view of Sang Wan only had resentment. The more Wang Shi did so, the more he refused to listen. As for those books that Zhuan Huan brought to him, only God knows where they were ced to grow mold! He did not even have the interest to flip a page from those books!


    Unexpectedly, his wife was just as disinterested in those types of books as he was. It seems his mother had ced her focus on the wrong route.


    While secretly thinking about his past, Shi Fengju felt a thought somewhere within him. If only, if he did not have Fangzi, no, if the rtionship did not form in the first ce, then would he¡ª¡ª


    A chill erupted in his heart and he quickly killed the thought off. How could he have such a thought? His cousin had already sacrificed so much for him, suffered so many grievances all just for him... how could he forget those?


    Just when the conversation was getting a little livelier, Shi Fengju¡¯s expression suddenly changed slightly. Sang Wan could not help but wonder. Words from her mouth stopped flowing out as she looked to observe.


    Shi Fengju smiled awkwardly. Just as he tried toe up with another topic for them both to talk about, Zhide, fortunately, came bursting into the chamber with a bowl of noddles. The aroma from the bowl of steaming hot noddles rushed into his nose and his eyes could not help but brighten up.


    ¡°Lord, please have your noodles first! It¡¯s already quitete, I¡¯ll go have a wash first before going to bed!¡± Observing the situation, Sang Wan smiled and got up.


    ¡°Go first then!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s appetite returned and he once again managed to seize control of his mental state.


    Sang Wan pursed her lips and smiled before calling for Liu Ya to follow her.

 Chapter 29 (V2): Super Nanny

    <h4>Chapter 29 (V2): Super Nanny</h4>


    Shi Fengju was finally able to fill his stomachfortably. After returning from a quick shower, the magenta-colored bed curtain was already tightly enclosed around the bed which showed that Sang Wan should be sound asleep by now.


    With no one else in the chamber, Shi Fengju let his courage grow and he wilfully gazed at the bed curtain that would sway once in a while. Unknowingly, his thoughts began to wander and he wondered what the person¡¯s posture would be like as she slept behind the bed curtain. His heart became a little aroused and was tempted to push away the bed curtain to have a full view. He hesitated for a while, but eventually, he was not daring enough to do so. Quietlyughing at himself foolishly, he shook his head and swiftly took out a mattress from the cupboard.


    Unbeknown to him, during the time he was staring at the bed curtain, the person inside was quietly monitoring him. She gently leaned her head away from the bed curtain and the edge of her lips hooked slightly upwards.


    No more than two dayster, Nanny Li¡¯s body had finally recovered and she returned to Ning Garden.


    Sang Wan greeted her wholeheartedly and weed her in with a smile before instructing Hong Ye personally to bring along a few other servants to reorganize the old servant¡¯s room, change the mattress and bed curtain, and arrange the pieces of furniture. She even went to the extent of adding a few decorations into the room; the edge of the window sat a healthy spider nt potted in a decorated porcin pot to breathe some fresh green into the room. From a look, the interior was exceptionally spirited.


    Seeing so, Nanny Li became happier and thanked Sang Wan with words. In return, Sang Wan would, of course, respond modestly with a smile. The rtionship between the two gradually became closer.


    Who would have thought that Gu Fangzi would send someone to gather information regarding the situation between the two? Deep down, her heart suddenly felt somewhat ufortable and annoyed at Nanny Li at the same time.


    Earlier when Nanny Li was still recuperating at home, Gu Fangzi brought up the topic regarding Nanny Li to Sang Wan; either intentionally or unintentionally. In her speech revealed how Nanny Li fought over others to obtain the opportunity to take care of Shi Fengju, likes to take advantage of her own seniority, and makes harsh criticisms of others. And because of that, the servants from Ning Garden had to listen to her every word and seek her consent for everything they do which made her seemed like a noblewoman. What was worse would be how she liked to go about bbering nonsense andining to Shi Fengju! All in all, an olddy that was difficult to handle!


    She even said to Sang Wan, ¡°It is considered reasonable that Nanny Li should have left long ago to take care of her aging self, but she said so herself before Big Cousin¡¯s wedding that he does not know how to take care of himself and that the servants would be unruly if she were to leave. As such, Big Cousin let her stay without a choice. But now, since Cousin-inw Sang Wan had already married into the family, Big Cousin should be personally taken care of by his wife! If I may add, I think you should head to Aunt Wang early and have her request Nanny Li to return and take care of her own old body! Otherwise, she¡¯ll stick her head into every matter in Ning Garden! That olddy has many rules and is extremely naggy; won¡¯t that cause you to be in a bind? Regardless whether oneplies with her or not, she¡¯ll definitely still behave very harshly; so it¡¯d be best to send her off early! If you think about it, it¡¯ll be more of a blessing if she stays at her home. I mean, she won¡¯t even becking in any way; she¡¯ll still be eating her three meals with servants serving her! Have a talk with her. I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll understand where you¡¯reing from!¡±


    Sang Wan did not have much interaction with Nanny Li in her past life and thus, did not have much understanding of that olddy. However, after being reborn, she was absolutely sure of one fact, and that was: Anything thates out from Gu Fangzi¡¯s mouth, must be heard and acted from an opposite perspective for that had proved to be effective!


    Therefore, when Gu Fangzi spoke of Nanny Li, all Sang Wan did was keep a faint smile and listen. Once in a while, she would also nod, but she knew deep down that she should do the opposite of what was said.


    As such, Gu Fangzi, who had originally wanted to wait out and see Sang Wan rushing over to Wang Shi requesting to have Nanny Li leave, could not sit still any longer.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was extremely unhappy and she headed over to Shi Fengju to add fuel to the situation.


    ¡°Nanny Li is now old and should be enjoying herself at home. I do not know why Cousin Sang Wan would want to bring her back to Ning Garden! Big Cousin, why don¡¯t you try to persuade Cousin Sang Wan! Nanny Li isn¡¯t one who can stand being idle; if she were to live in Ning Garden, she¡¯ll definitely begin worrying about many things! For an elderly to worry too much, what¡¯s more after recovering from a serious illness, it might not be good for her body!¡±


    Shi Fengju became deep in thoughts and unwittingly nodded.


    His nanny was great in every aspect and had treated him like her very own son. However, because she cared too much for him, she still sees him as a naive child and would often enter his room at night to check whether he had his quilt kicked away! Not to mention his meals, the type of clothes he wears, when he sleeps, and when he got out of bed; all these were kept known to her. All so often, she would brew some strange soup for him to drink, stating that it was a tonic for his body. She frequently made him miserable yet unable to refuse. If he were to, she would cry to a point where she needed coaxing, and if his mother were to catch wind of this, she would definitely scold him for being insensible!


    However, that was not the most difficult about her. The most difficult about her would be her rtionship with Gu Fangzi. The two frequently had conflicts with each other, but no matter how tolerant his cousin was, the sight of her would make his nanny displeased and she would always scold her with words like ¡®sham¡¯, ¡®dramatic¡¯, ¡®insincere¡¯, and much more. Her saying was just a thing, but having the need to make him agree with her words, that itself had always caused him to be in a dilemma.


    Letting her go back to take care of herself and enjoy her remaining years... that in fact, did not sound so bad after all.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Nanny should be blissfully at home, but,¡± Shi Fengju nced at Gu Fangzi andughed. Half jokingly and half serious, he spoke, ¡°you and nanny are never on good terms with each other, so why the thought for her? That doesn¡¯t seem like you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi had always been one who favors efficiency and puts a clear line between kindness and resentment, so why would she spare a thought for his nanny?


    Although Gu Fagnzi might not be daring enough to go against Nanny Li, every now and then, she would always release her anger around Shi Fengju. Only after Shi Fengju spoke gently to please her could he then move on to coax her. Afterward, when Nanny Li came to find out from others about how Shi Fengju attempted to please his cousin and coax her, she would nearly faint with rage but feel extremely helpless at the same time!


    yed in the hands of that woman, sadness coursed through her for Shi Fengju did not live up to her expectations and had to submit beneath someone.


    Once Gu Fangzi heard Shi Fengju asking her such a question, she immediately red up and red angrily at him. ¡°Not like me? Then tell me what kind of behavior would seem more like me? In any case, she¡¯s your nanny. For someone so important to you, do you think I can¡¯t read the situation? In your eyes, am I, am I¡ª¡ª¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes reddened. As if she was wronged, tears almost fell from her eyes.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way!¡± Shi Fengju quickly went tofort her. ¡°Can¡¯t you hear that I was only joking about only? Just like what you said, she¡¯s my nanny and I know deep down, you still give her the respect she deserves. I mean, you¡¯ve never gone against her words!¡±


    Only after hearing so did Gu Fangzi felt a little better. She nced at Shi Fengju with sparkling eyes and sighed softly. ¡°What, what other personalities do I have? Weren¡¯t they all killed just for your sake? For you, I¡¯m willing to change; for you, nothing cannot be changed!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was touched by a feeling of warmth and he let out a sigh gently before patting her back.


    After returning to Ning Garden, Shi Fengju brought the matter regarding Nanny Li to Sang Wan. Even though he was beating about the bush, his words revealed the meaning of not wanting Nanny Li back, saying that she was no longer young anymore and should not exhaust herself anymore; instead, she should be at home enjoying a blissful life.


    Sang Wan could not help but be slightly furious. In this household, the ones who make the decisions are the lot of you, when has it ever been me deciding? Whether Nanny Li returns or not will never be influenced by my words alone!


    Sang Wan¡¯s anger onlysted for a moment. Immediately, she calmed down for she knew she could not me Shi Fengju. If no one was behind this, Shi Fengju would never have been able toe up with this thought. And even if he truly did not wish for Nanny Li to return, he wouldn¡¯t have put all the me on Sang Wan herself. Still, he was already considered good. Even though his words did me her, he was not direct and did not vent his temper at her but instead had her make the decision. On the whole, all he did was express his dissatisfaction.


    But does it not seem different from a certain someone¡¯s assumptions?


    Before Sang Wan could open her mouth to speak, she spotted Nanny Liing in with the help of a young servant girl. Holding her tears back, she looked towards Shi Fengju and spoke, ¡°Does Young Master wish for this old servant to leave? Does Young Master see this old servant as useless because I¡¯m old?¡±


    ¡°Nanny!¡± Shi Fengju did not expect Nanny Li to have heard his conversation with Sang Wan. He hurriedly stood and tried to exin, ¡°That isn¡¯t what I meant! I am just worried for your body! Isn¡¯t it better for you to take good care of your body at home? I¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that still mean the same thing?¡± Nanny Li lifted her handkerchief and wiped her tears before continuing, ¡°The way you phrase it only makes it seemed more soothing to the ears, but what you see of me is just a frail olddy in the end! All this because I¡¯m no longer useful and likes to nag! How I¡¯m disliked by others! Forget it, forget it, I¡¯ll leave! For an olddy like me who had poured her heart out for this ce, what¡¯s there left of me? What should I have expected?¡±


    After saying her piece of mind, she cried as she left with the small servant girl without caring for Shi Fengju who was calling to her.


    That was bad!


    Sang Wan and Shi Fengju looked nkly at each other.


    Shi Fengju stomped his foot and let out a yell filled with remorse. Lifting his feet, he wanted to chase after his nanny.


    If he were to just let his nanny go, not only would he feel apologetic towards her, his mother would never let him off easily!


    ¡°Lord!¡± Sang Wan quickly stood up and stopped him. She hurried over and grabbed his arm, ¡°It¡¯ll be best if I go. I¡¯ll go ahead and persuade her. Then when her anger vanishes, you can go and see her.¡±


    Facing Sang Wan¡¯s gentle gaze, Shi Fengju nodded. ¡°Alright then. You have to make her stay no matter what; she can¡¯t just leave!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Sang Wan smiled. That olddy was not entirely undefeatable; having her stay was not a difficult task.


    Shi Fengju walked up and down frantically. But who would have thought that after a short moment, he heard Liu Ya, who went with Sang Wan, running back and calling for him.


    ¡°How¡¯s Nanny Li?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was tightly clenched.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s alright, everything¡¯s alright!¡± Liu Ya grinned broadly. ¡°Young Master can be at ease now. Young Mistress was able to persuade Nanny Li sessfully. Nanny Li has already stopped insisting to leave. Young Mistress sent this servant to inform Young Master!¡±


    ¡°What? Really?¡± Shi Fengju was taken aback. With the temper that his nanny had, persuading her was never a simple task and Shi Fengju was extremely clear about it. ¡°Did Sang Wan really persuade Nanny Li not to leave?¡±


    Shi Fengju did a swift calction in his mind. Removing the time taken to walk, Sang Wan should have only spoken no more than five sentences. That quickly? He would rather believe that he had a problem with his hearing.


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s true! Young Master will know when you see it for yourself!¡± Liu Ya quickly spoke, her heart a little unsympathetic.


    Shi Fengju spoke no more and immediately headed off.


    Sure enough, after arriving at Nanny Li¡¯s room, the mood there was calm although the old nanny¡¯s eyes were still swollen red and her expression a little down. Sitting there was Sang Wan who was talking to her. Sang Wan had a smile on her face and would nod her head once in a while.

 Chapter 30 (V2): Just a Sentence

    <h4>Chapter 30 (V2): Just a Sentence</h4>


    ¡°Nanny!¡± Apanied by a smile, Shi Fengju entered and gave a lightugh.


    Sang Wan quickly stood up and winked at him before nodding slightly.


    Nanny Li also stood up but grunted as she did so. Bowing slightly, she greeted, ¡°Young Master!¡±


    ¡°I guess it can¡¯t be helped!¡± Shi Fengju quickly returned a greeting and smiled, ¡°You acting the way you are will not make my heart at ease. Before, it was my bad and I hope Nanny won¡¯t be angry about it anymore. Here in Ning Garden, you can live here for as long as you like and no one will be permitted to mention this anymore. So Nanny, please cool down, alright?¡±


    Sang Wan then added with a smile, ¡°Yes, what Lord said before was only because he cared for you! If you were to be tired out, he will surely worry for you. These few days when you returned to recuperate, he was extremely concerned for your health! If you¡¯re still mad at him, he¡¯ll definitely be feeling uneasy.¡±


    Nanny Li looked away and sighed, ¡°Do I not know what kind of person Young Master is? I¡¯m not angry because of that. I¡¯m just afraid that those around you aren¡¯t taking good care of you. Don¡¯t worry, once the dayes when I cannot move, I will leave without you even saying so that I won¡¯t cause any trouble for you.¡±


    ¡°Nanny, don¡¯t say that. You¡¯re never a trouble!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s chest felt somewhat warm and his nose suddenly felt a little sour.


    Nanny Li felt pleased upon hearing those words, but she gave a soft grunt and said coldly, ¡°Young Master may say so now, but who knows when Young Master would turn away and be incited by someone else after just a few words. Then after, Young Master will begin to dislike this olddy!¡±


    Shi Fengju understood that she was referring to Gu Fangzi and heughed it off awkwardly, ¡°Just listen to what you just said, that will never happen! Who would have the courage to speak ill of you in front of me? If someone were to do so, that person would definitely not be let off!¡±


    ¡°Enough, enough! Your words, this olddy will never believe!¡± Although Nanny Li spoke in disbelieve, her face could not help but exposed a smile. She turned to look at Sang Wan and praised, ¡°Now that we have Young Mistress, I shall only listen to her. If Young Mistress says to have me stay, I will stay! No one else will have a second say in it!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! Everything will be up to you!¡± Shi Fengju was secretly amazed. What kind of kungfu did Sang Wan use to make Nanny Li and her rtionship to be so close in a blink of an eye? Miracle, truly a miracle!


    Still, having Sang Wan intervene and coax that elderly truly saved him from a lot of trouble.


    ¡°Nanny, what you just said...Sang Wan does not deserve such praise!¡± Sang Wan became slightly startled and smiled embarrassedly.


    ¡°Who says you don¡¯t deserve it? You¡¯re the this young mistress of this household!¡± Nanny Li turned back to Shi Fengju and spoke sternly, ¡°Young Master, pardon me for speaking out of ce, but Young Mistress truly is a good person! This olddy has seen countless people and thus my eye for people is very urate. I¡¯ve to say, Young Mistress is truly for you! You should cherish her dearly.¡±


    ¡°Nanny, the day isn¡¯t early anymore. You should have some rest. Lord still has a business trip early in the morning tomorrow!¡± Sang Wan did not expect Nanny Li to say that in front of her and Shi Fengju. She could not help but feel embarrassed, but most importantly did not wish for Shi Fengju to mistake her for having spoken something that would have magnified herself in Nanny Li¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Yes, right, me and my muddlehead! Go back quickly, go back! We¡¯ll talk more when there¡¯s time!¡± Nanny Li gasped and gestured them to leave. But she did not forget to prove her point and spoke again to Shi Fengju, ¡°Just look at her, how much she¡¯s concerned for you!¡±


    ¡°Right, right!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s face stiffened and he felt awkward. After all, only he and Sang Wan knew of their current rtionship. But for a third party to speak so highly of them, he felt somewhat apologetic. However, deep inside, he did not resent such a feeling.


    ¡°Nanny, rest early!¡± The two awkwardly fled from Nanny Li¡¯s chamber. Looking at each other, their faces flushed and they quickly turned away.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back!¡±


    ¡°En!¡±


    A journey back without words.


    With a curtain to separate the two, they eachy quietly but the atmosphere seemed to contain a strange kind of tension. Obviously, they knew the one opposite of the curtain could not see the one on the other side, but there was this strange feeling that seemed like the one on the opposite side was giving off an intense stare. The twoy motionlessly, and their breathing could not help but be extremely careful.


    ¡°You¡ª¡ª asleep already?¡± In the dark and under the nket of silence, Shi Fengju¡¯s voice was like a small pebble that fell into a calmke, making a rhythmic circle of ripples.


    After a long while, but perhaps it was just a short moment, before Shi Fengju was about to jump to his conclusion that Sang Wan would not respond to his question, she gently answered a ¡®no¡¯.


    Shi Fengju turned his body over to face the direction of the bed. His hand was bent under a pillow and his other hand clenched loosely beside his cheek.


    ¡°Do you find it strange why I treat Nanny well?¡± Shi Fengju asked.


    Sang Wan gently opened her eyes and smiled, ¡°A little. Supposedly...¡±


    Supposedly, the young sirs and misses would usually regard their nannies as their confidants, and their favoritism towards them could be heavily sighted. However, for someone like Shi Fengju who deeply respects and behaves well in front of his nanny lest provoking the slightest unpleasantness in the old nanny was very much less seen.


    Shi Fengju sighed deeply which revealed a bottomless amount of grief, gratitude, andpassion. He spoke softly, ¡°Nanny, who is older than my mother by a whole ten years, followed her into this household. At one point, to save my father, her husband lost his life. And as for her, she saved me but ended up losing her only son forever.¡±


    Sang Wan pursed her lips slightly and gave a soft ¡°ah!¡±.


    Shi Fengju continued, ¡°Nanny¡¯s son was older than me by a year. Since young, Nanny had taught him to always protect me, to always ce me first. But in fact, we grew up together and yed together so we were like brothers. Even without Nanny telling him, he would have done it anyway. I remember when I was nine, my mother brought me to visit my grandparents who lived far away. On the way there, we encountered a group of refugees. Nanny, her son, and I were chased by them. Seeing that the refugees were chasing after us from all directions, I was extremely frightened at that time. Nanny then grabbed our hands before fleeing desperately. However, we were spotted by them and two middle-aged men came chasing after us. In that dire situation, she instructed her son to lure them away from us before bringing me to hide among a patch of grass.¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled bitterly, ¡°Later after we got home, a group of men was sent to search for Nanny¡¯s son. Who would have known that after half a year, all that was found was a corpse? It seems those two middle-aged men had caught him and sold him into very. When he tried to escape, he was discovered and was beaten to death.¡±


    ¡°As such, if not for Nanny and her son, then maybe I, Shi Fengju, would have already long left this world! Our household owes nanny two lives, and in my heart, she is my second mother.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart suddenly felt a sense of emptiness and was at a loss.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Sang Wan answered gently. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll respect Nanny and take good care of her. But most of all, I¡¯ll definitely treat her with kindness.¡±


    Having cited his story, it was actually not just to gain herpassion, but for her to make a stand. In other words, what he wanted to hear was what she had just said.


    Hearing so, Shi Fengju smiledfortably. In the end, she truly was a wise person and her words were soothing to the ear, just like a gentle river coursing through.


    ¡°Because Nanny¡¯s old, she may be a little long-winded, likes to worry a lot, and wants to manage whatever she can, ¡± Shi Fengju could not help but add a little distress into his tone, ¡°If you¡¯ve nothing to do during the day, do pay a visit to that olddy. Also, her body isn¡¯t as fit as it used to be, so don¡¯t have her be burdened with tasks and worries!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Sang Wan gently replied, but her heart knew: It¡¯s all because of you that she worries a lot. If you just listen to her more often and follow ordingly, she¡¯ll naturally not have to worry so much! You giving me these instructions is like providing a temporary solution only.


    ¡°Nanny favors you quite a bit; to think she¡¯s willing to listen to you!¡± Shi Fengjuughed. At this point, he could not help but want to satisfy the curiosity in his heart, and he asked, ¡°What exactly did you say to her after catching up with her? In such a short time span, how did you managed to persuade her to stay?¡± If it were him trying to do so in the past, that would simply be an impossible task to aplish.


    ¡°Do you want to hear it?¡± Sang Wan hooked the edge of her lips and revealed a yful smile.


    Shi Fengju could sense her yful tone. It was almost as if he could imagine her beautiful eyes and small red lips being hooked to show her yfulness. He nodded andughed, ¡°Yes!¡±


    Sang Wanughed in response, ¡°Actually, I only said a sentence. I said that if she were to leave, it would inevitably lead to others gossiping about how Lord has no conscience.¡±


    ¡°Just that?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shi Fengju went silent. But after a short while, he gave a long sigh as his heart had mixed feelings for his nanny. She truly does care a lot for him; regardless of her long-winded nagging or whether her method was right, her heart is truly leaned towards him. Has his affection towards her dulled?


    ¡°Nanny is actually quite nice to get along with. I¡¯m not sure why, but I¡¯ve had that feeling ever since meeting her for the first time,¡± Sang Wan spoke. ¡°It¡¯s just that she cares so much about you. So in return, you should also do the same. Otherwise, when it¡¯s toote to do so, it¡¯ll truly be saddening.¡±


    Once again, Shi Fengju remained silent but for a long while for his heart was slowly drifting away.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Shi Fengju spoke softly. He turned his body to face the opposite side before closing his eyes and falling asleep.


    ¡°No need for the thanks, we¡¯re husband and wife,¡± Sang Wan spoke in her head.


    On the next day, it was time for Sang Wan to pay her visit to her mother-inw and Nanny Li apanied her. Because of her absence from the Shi household, it was natural that she ought to pay her visit to Wang Shi.


    After the talk with Shi Fengjust night, Sang Wan¡¯s impression of Nanny Li had added a few more points of respect. In turn, she secretly reminded Liu Ya.


    From then on, pressing above the heads of the two, master and servant, was an additional divine being. However, the respect she had for her was actually something she quite liked.


    Arriving at the courtyard, Wang Shi¡¯s eyes immediately brightened up upon seeing Nanny Li. She busily waved at her and greeted, ¡°Old sister, is your health alright? Quick, have a seat and we¡¯ll talk more!¡±


    Nanny Li returned the greeting by calling ¡°Missy!¡± and smiled while saying she dared not receive the honor. But already, a group of diligent servant girls was already helping her to a seat.


    After greeting Wang Shi, Sang Wan stood at a side to serve and to observe. While listening to Wang Shi and Nanny Li¡¯s rxed conversation that was asionally filled with jokes, Sang Wan understood that Shi Fengju¡¯s praise was no exaggeration; Nanny Li¡¯s presence in this household was definitely special.


    ¡°Ageing is a fact that must be epted,¡± Nanny Li sighed. She gave a nce at Sang Wan and then turned to give Wang Shi a smile. She sighed regretfully and spoke, ¡°The Shi household had such a happy asion, yet I was unable to attend!¡±


    Wang Shiughed, ¡°Hai, that¡¯s alright. You have to take good care of your body so that you¡¯ll be alive when Sang Wan gives birth to a child; you definitely cannot be absent again!¡±

 Chapter 31 (V2): Cousin’s Instigation

    <h4>Chapter 31 (V2): Cousin¡¯s Instigation</h4>


    ¡°I will, I will! For Young Master¡¯s son, this bag of old bones shall take good care of myself. Later in the future when Young Master¡¯s son is born, I¡¯ll also do my best!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s eyes glistened and she suddenly became spirited.


    ¡°That would be great! But what I¡¯m afraid is that the task may wear you out!¡± Wang Shiughed and gazed at her.


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen, that won¡¯t happen!¡± Nanny Li shook her hand.


    Sang Wan quickly lowered her head as her face had turned red while listening to them. It became even more embarrassing especially when Wang Shi turned to take a brief look at her belly.


    Lord¡¯s son? I¡¯m afraid Mother-inw Wang and Nanny Li will both end up being disappointed.


    ¡°Sang Wan, this is Shi Fengju¡¯s nanny. Come and greet her.¡± Wang Shi pouted slightly and smiled towards Sang Wan.


    Nanny Liughed, ¡°This olddy has already seen Young Mistress yesterday when I returned to Ning Garden!¡±


    But Wang Shiughed it off and said, ¡°Yesterday¡¯s yesterday, today¡¯s today. Sang Wan, you have to always keep in mind that Nanny Li is the great benefactor of our Shi family, and even more so the person who brought Shi Fengju up and is well respected by him! Understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother! Your daughter-inw shall keep your words to heart and will respect Nanny deeply!¡± Sang Wan smiled and answered before walking up to Nanny Li. Bowing deeping, she greeted loudly, ¡°Nanny!¡±


    ¡°Aiyo, there¡¯s no need for Young Mistress to do so! Truly there¡¯s no need for it!¡± Nanny Li hurriedly stood to a side and smiled to Wang Shi, ¡°The regtions must still be followed! Missy, your words always know how to make me bashful.¡±


    ¡°You just remain seated, how can there be no need for it? Regtions must of course be followed, but there are always exceptions!¡± Wang Shiughed and indicated to the young maidservants to help Nanny Li back to her seat. Again, the two returned to their conversation and would once in a while give a pleasantughter.


    Nanny Li and Wang Shi spoke casually to each other. One could immediately see that they were intimate like sisters with no sign of reservation and carefulness.


    Sang Wan was secretly amazed. One should know that Wang Shi can be very moody, her temperament unstable, her behaviors easily affected by others, and is simple minded. Such a person is extremely difficult to deal with because they can be happy all of a sudden and then angry with no actual reason. Before, she may beughing happily, but on the next second, her expression may make aplete flip. It must have been hard on Nanny Li. But for her to be able to face Wang Shi so casually, it may be moreplex than just the loss of two lives.


    Sang Wan was right on point. There was indeed something else that even Shi Fengju did not know.


    During the time when Nanny Li and Shi Fengju were hiding among a patch of grass, Shi Fengju was unfortunately bitten by a venomous snake which caused him to pass out. It was only because of Nanny Li, who sucked most of the venom out mouth after mouth, that Shi Fengju was alive. However, the venom harmed her body and her lungs became severely injured, making her cough very badly asionally. And after several years of treatment, the venom was finally removed.


    As for that incident, Shi Fengju was unaware of it. It was Nanny Li¡¯s idea to keep him in the dark as she was afraid that it might scare the young master. However, Wang Shi, the old master, and a few others knew that was not the case. Instead, it was because Nanny Li did not wish for Shi Fengju to owe her too much of his thanks. As such, that incident was kept confined to a handful. All Shi Fengju knew was that his Nanny¡¯s health in those few years were not great and would often cough very badly, but other than that, he knew of nothing else.


    And from just that, it showed how canny Nanny Li was. Even though she was a maidservant brought from Wang Shi¡¯s parental household, a servant was nevertheless a servant. If Shi Fengju were to be too grateful towards her, it would bring no benefit and would only cause Wang Shi to develop a sense of dislike.


    After all, no mother would wish for their own child to remember, and be close with, others more than herself!


    So long as Nanny Li was able to keep that incident from being known to Shi Fengju, that itself would disy her loyalty towards Wang Shi. Wang Shi would then never put her guard up when around her and would treat her as one of her own. Time after time, she would even remind Shi Fengju to treat and respect his nanny well.


    Among those in this household who could speak on an equal standing with Wang Shi, Nanny Li was definitely number one, whereas Gu Fangzi and Nanny Jiang were both ranked second.


    Wang Shi¡¯s spirits were up and could not bear to have Nanny Li leave. Thus, she invited her to stay for lunch.


    She was so into her conversation with Nanny Li that she forgot all about Sang Wan. And because of that, Sang Wan had stayed by the side and did not leave. Seeing that the food was about to be served, she, even more so, could not leave and went to serve the food onto the table personally.


    As Wang Shi warm-heartedly helped Nanny Li to her seat, Nanny Li nced at Sang Wan and smiled, ¡°This isn¡¯t good, this old servant isn¡¯t worthy of the favor!¡±


    Wang Shi followed her gaze and her eyesnded on Sang Wan. In that moment, she immediately recalled having forgotten to let her take her leave andughed, ¡°I must be getting old, to have forgotten about Sang Wan. Come, take a seat too! It¡¯s enough to have the servants do it!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan epted respectfully.


    Seeing so, Nanny Li smiled, ¡°Young Mistress truly is filial and courteous, Young Master sure is blessed; and Missy, you¡¯re truly very fortunate too! If I may, Old Master¡¯s eye for people sure is excellent!¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Wang Shi could not help but grin and nod. ¡°Sang Wan has a great temperament, but because she¡¯s too courteous, she may even be too good for this household!¡±


    Nanny Li took a nce at Sang Wan in the eye and smiled at Wang Shi, ¡°Just now, this old servant praised that Missy is fortunate, but it seems this old servant was wrong. It is Young Mistress who¡¯s truly the fortunate one! Which household would have a mother-inw like Missy who¡¯s so tolerant and generous, and cares a lot for her daughter-inw?¡±


    The mother-inw and daughter-inw could not help butugh, and the three sat affectionately to have lunch.


    Sang Wan discreetly looked towards Nanny Li with admiration. At first, she was afraid that Nanny Li might praise her a little too much in front of Wang Shi, for she had done so in front of Shi Fengju, which might result in Wang Shi¡¯s dislike. But Nanny Li truly was quick-witted; her wordse and go, leaving no trail behind, yet those words would unknowingly be weed into the heart of her listener.


    After lunch, the three sat for a little while longer before Nanny Li left together with Sang Wan. But before so, Wang Shi once again reminded Sang Wan to never neglect Nanny Li and to treat her nicely. Sang Wan promised respectfully.


    The first few steps Sang Wan and Nanny Li took outside of the courtyard, Gu Fangzi had already taken a few more steps in. In her hands were arge basket of loquats as she cheerfully entered.


    Those were the newly harvested fresh fruits that were just gifted from a well-known farm.


    Wang Shi could not help but find the deep yellow colored fruit to be cute. Taking a quick sniff of its fragrance, her mouth watered and she ced two into her mouth. The flesh was delicious and juicy, and the moment it entered her mouth, she could already taste its sweetness. Wang Shi smiled and praised the fruit before turning to Gu Fangzi, ¡°Send a few to Ning Garden, will you? This year, the loquats are rather sweet. I¡¯m sure Nanny Li also loves to eat these. Just send a few more over there.¡±


    Gu Fangzi smiled and promised. ¡°These were just sent to us from a well-known farm. All I did was pick a basket and have you taste some first, but I¡¯ll pass the word to the servants to have them distribute the fruits.¡± Slyly, she continued, ¡°Not too long ago, I saw figures of what seemed to be Nanny Li and Cousin Sang Wan, were they returning from here?¡±


    Wang Shi smiledfortably, ¡°They were. Nanny Li returned to Ning Garden yesterday and came here specifically today to greet me. I asked for her to chat a little longer with me and then we had lunch together!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sped her hands together andughed, ¡°If I knew they were here, I would have sent these over earlier! Oh, that sounded too twisted. If they had heard, they would have thought I was avoiding them deliberately.¡±


    ¡°Rubbish!¡± Wang Shi spoke sternly but with a smile. ¡°You overthink things. Nanny Li isn¡¯t such a person!¡±


    ¡°Of course Nanny Li isn¡¯t,¡± Gu Fangzu smiled, ¡°but Cousin Sang Wan, in any case, entered this household recently; what¡¯s more, this household is also under my management, I...¡±


    ¡°My good child, you can rx!¡± Seeing her worried look, Wang Shi could not help but gently held her hand. Softly, sheforted, ¡°Aunt Wang is here, and I understand you!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang truly does care a lot about me!¡± Gu Fangzi showed afortable smile, and went on, ¡°actually, it may just be me thinking too much. With Cousin Sang Wan¡¯s temperament, such thoughts would definitely not surface in her mind, right? You should know that Nanny Li can be a little entric, but from what I observed, her rtionship with Sang Wan seems to be quite close. If Sang Wan¡¯s conduct towards Nanny Li is good, then her conduct towards me will naturally be the same!¡±


    Hearing those words, Wang Shi¡¯s brows became slightly raised. However, even though the dark clouds filled her heart, she scolded Gu Fangzi and vented it on her, ¡°Nonsense! Nanny Li is an elderly in this household, and is also your cousin¡¯s nanny; do not be impudent!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Gu Fangzi responded but spoke again cheekily, ¡°Seriously, in which life did Nanny Li burnt such high graded incense that deserves such support from Aunt Wang and Big Cousin! What¡¯s more, there¡¯s even Cousin Sang Wan supporting her from behind now. Now, no one would even dare to provoke that olddy!¡±


    ¡°Is the rtionship between Sang Wan and Nanny Li really that close?¡± Wang Shi could not help but ask.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Gu Fangziughed, ¡°It may have been fate that Cousin Sang Wan and Nanny Li have an affinity. Those two would oftenugh and talk with each other, and Cousin Sang Wan even personally helped Nanny Li when she needed to move from one ce to another!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s heart began to feel somewhat sour. Sang Wan is her daughter-inw, so shouldn¡¯t the person whom she should be getting close to is her? The thought of Sang Wan and Nanny Li being so close, although she could not put it to words, made her feel a little ufortable.


    However, if she were to remain silent, it would show that she had ced her entire trust into those words. But how could she when she knew the friction between Gu Fangzi and Nanny Li? Her niece disliked Nanny Li, and Nanny Li had never not take her stand when in front of her.


    There was the time when she was shook because of Nanny Li¡¯s words. And because of that, she became reluctant to end off the marriage between the Shi family and the Sang family. Otherwise, she would have already done so due to the difference in both families¡¯ financial position.


    There was a small part in her that was not entirely convinced by Gu Fangzi¡¯s words. Half fakingly, she asked, ¡°Nanny Li returned to Ning Garden just yesterday only, how could their rtionship be intimate in no more than just half a day? You must be exaggerating!¡±


    ¡°My words have a basis, it isn¡¯t any exaggeration!¡± Gu Fangzi pretended to feel wronged and continued, ¡°Aunt Wang, you may not know this but Nanny Li was extremely furiousst night and made a ruckus in Ning Garden! No matter how Big Cousin persuaded her to stay, it was to no avail! But guess what? From what I¡¯ve heard, Cousin Sang Wan was able to persuade Nanny Li toply with her in just a few words! Everyone in Ning Garden already knows of that incident!¡±


    ¡°Such a thing happened?¡± Wang Shi was surprised and hurriedly asked, ¡°What else do you know?¡±


    Gu Fangzi shook her head, ¡°I didn¡¯t hear much about the details, so I¡¯m not exactly sure what happened at the start.¡±


    Wang Shi puffed, ¡°It must be Fengju!¡±


    Gu Fangzi immediately stiffened and her eyes widened with surprise.

 Chapter 32 (V2): Nanny Li and the Cousin’s War With Words

    <h4>Chapter 32 (V2): Nanny Li and the Cousin¡¯s War With Words</h4>


    Only to hear Wang Shi continue, ¡°He is not a child already, yet he still cannot see the severity in this! Needless to say, he must have done something to make Nanny Li mad! For him to do that to someone who looked after him and cares a lot about him, that useless thing; when he¡¯s back, I¡¯ll surely teach him a lesson! Fortunately, Sang Wan was able to persuade Nanny Li, otherwise, how will the Shi family ever face her! I want to hear the details so go and inquire about it!¡± Thetter was actually spoken to Nanny Jiang.


    Gu Fangzi opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Never had she imagined that Wang Shi¡¯s thoughts would not follow the trail sheid out! Why did things end up not following the way she wanted it to be?


    What Gu Fangzi did not know was that Wang Shi had already heard from someone that there was a quarrel between Shi Fengju and Nanny Li. Deep down, she was already somewhat unhappy for it was her son, and what¡¯s more it was with someone whom he was very close with!


    Never had he dared to do something like that towards her!


    The me within her that was recently lit blew out naturally by itself. Not only was she not furious at Sang Wan, she was secretly thankful that Sang Wan was present when the incident happened. If not for Sang Wan, Nanny Li would have left; how would the entire household go about facing the public in the future? For Sang Wan who had stood for Nanny Li, it was inevitable that their rtionship would be close.


    Gu Fangzi had spent a lot of timeing up with a n that could kill two birds with one stone, yet it was all in vain. It was all for naught since her n was unsessful, but seeing Wang Shi grumbling with her mind now full of wanting to teach Shi Fengju a lesson, she no longer wished to stay any further and excused herself unconvincingly.


    Shi Fengju returned in the evening, and sure enough, Wang Shi scolded him harshly. Although he knew he deserved it, his heart felt that it was uncalled for and wondered: It was already a thing of the past, so why did Mother make such a big fuss and purposely call for me to give me a lecture?


    Nanny Li felt rather apologetic once she knew that Shi Fengju got a scolding and went to Wang Shi to exin that it was all an ident, a misunderstanding, which had been resolved. Once Shi Fengju became aware that it was Gu Fangzi who leaked the information out unintentionally to his mother, he was at a loss whether to cry or tough.


    Gu Fangzi felt that themotion which she sparked was diverting more and more, and thus went up to Sang Wan and apologized, ¡°My mouth was too quick at that moment, but who¡¯d have thought Aunt Wang to be so earnest? Cousin Sang Wan, please don¡¯t get mad at me! I apologize sincerely to you!¡±


    Once the words left her mouth, she truly went on her knees and bowed.


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi, you¡¯re too courteous!¡± Sang Wan smiled and hurriedly went to help her up, but her heart secretly responded: The one who got the scolding wasn¡¯t me, so why would I get mad at you? The one you should be apologizing to isn¡¯t me.


    Nanny Li absolutely disliked seeing Gu Fangzi striking an attitude on purpose. She took a nce cynically and smiled fakingly, ¡°Just as Young Mistress said, Miss Gu is being too courteous, but too much of it would make it unusual. Still, a Shi family matter has got nothing to do with Miss Gu, so that bow was all for naught.¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s gaze swept across the maidservants who stood at the side and her face turned red all of a sudden. Barely forcing a smile, she spoke, ¡°But in the end, it was because I was too quick to speak¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°That should not have happened!¡± Nanny Liughed, ¡°This olddy here isn¡¯t trying to be prideful for being an elder, but whichdy, who¡¯s yet to be married, does nothing but go around all day and night with her mouth wide open! Miss Gu, listen to this old servant¡¯s advice and kick that habit away! Otherwise, there¡¯ll be trouble when finding you a match in the future!¡±


    Gu Fangzi could not help but be furious. What ¡°all day and night¡±, what ¡°go around¡±, is she really that idle? How could she have spoken like that! In a face off, she sneered, ¡°So Nanny knows that she¡¯s condescending; there I thought Nanny doesn¡¯t know it! In theory, Nanny has no rights to interrupt me speaking with my cousin-inw!¡±


    Those words made Nanny Li annoyed. Folding up her sleeves, the old deityughed to herself, ¡°Condescend onlyes from power! This old servant isn¡¯t trying to brag, but in front of Old Mistress, even this old servant has the right to interrupt. But Miss Gu truly is ambitious! Keke, this old servant is of course iparable with Miss Gu; everyone knows of Miss Gu¡¯s countless contributions to the Shi family, and in the future when Miss Gu turns old, she¡¯ll have a greater power than me to be condescending!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s boiling blood had reached it¡¯s limit and a load of dizziness erupted in her head. The anger in her heart seemed to have formed into a dagger, wishing to kill Nanny Li several times with words.


    But what can she say? Nanny Li had already confessed being condescending and has the authority to interrupt. What else can she do? Pull her out to Wang Shi and fight the case out, or have some servants beat her up? In this household, there was not one who would dare to do so, and even Wang Shi would not dare.


    That was because Nanny Li¡¯s husband and son had both traded their lives for the old master and young master of the Shi family. If the Shi family were to treat her ill, the house would be considered as ungrateful in the eyes of the public!


    Gu Fangzi trembled slightly and her chapped lips remained tightly shut.


    Seeing that things were getting out of hand, Sang Wan knew she could not let things as it was. Otherwise, Gu Fangzi would begin shedding tears which would seem as if she was being bullied by Nanny Li and her. And so, Sang Wan interfered, ¡°Nanny Li must have misunderstood Cousin Fangzi. Cousin Fangzi is very straightforward and speaks with no ill-intentions! Nanny Li, you must have misheard Cousin Fangzi! You¡¯re Mother-inw¡¯s servant, and also Sir¡¯s nanny; everyone in this household knows and respects you! Cousin Fangzi¡¯s words had no other meaning!¡±


    Gu Fangzi held the anger in her heart and quickly followed after Sang Wan¡¯s words with a smile,¡±Fangzi spoke without thinking and caused Nanny to be angry! Fangzi will apologize to Nanny!¡±


    ¡°Just you wait! When I get married into this family, just look at how I¡¯ll deal with you.¡± The handkerchief in her hand was crumpled and she cursed under her breath.


    Nanny Li rolled her eyes and offered a slight exnation, ¡°Miss Gu, your choice of words is once again wrong! Angry? This olddy doesn¡¯t have such bad temperament!¡± Turning to Sang Wan, she smiled and continued with a tone that was kind, ¡°Since Young Mistress has already spoken, this old servant shall not bicker or it¡¯ll be I who¡¯s in the wrong! Young Mistress is right, Miss Gu is just outspoken and speaks with no ill intentions!¡±


    However, no matter how one listened to those words, they sounded full of ridicule. The one who gets angry every so often; that finger was pointed directly at Gu Fangzi! Only she would often go to Shi Fengju and throw a tantrum which would always anger Nanny Li.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was already feeling very ufortable, but the more she listened, the angrier she got. However, that anger could only stay within her for she dared not open her mouth and could only act as if she had heard nothing. Nanny Li had always found her distasteful so no matter what she said, she would always be at the wrong.


    It was rare to see her acknowledge defeat; the sight immediately made Nanny Li more spirited and she began praising Sang Wan in front of her. ¡°For a girl, being too straightforward isn¡¯t good; which mother-inw would like to have a firecracker as their daughter-inw? A girl should be gentle, only then will she be liked by others! Those who hear her words will also be at eased! I¡¯m not trying to be condescending again, but Miss Gu should learn more from Young Mistress, a literary family no doubt!¡±


    The anger that Gu Fangzi held back previously immediately channeled up to her head and she sneered coldly, ¡°What nanny said is right, Cousin Sang Wan has a great temperament and has a sweet mouth, how could people not like her?¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t just stop there! She even serves her mother-inw and husband very well!¡± Satisfied, Nanny Li praised with her head held high.


    Since the beginning, what she disliked most was Gu Fangzi leisurely ordering Shi Fengju around. Not only had she heard from others about them, she had even witnessed them herself. She had seen Gu Fangzi urging Shi Fengju to climb a plum blossom tree just to pick the desired flowers for her to decorate her hair; she had seen her thirsty for tea after a stroll in the garden and requested for Shi Fengju to return to his chamber to bring her a cup of tea; she had seen Shi Fengju lower himself to her to wipe her embroidered shoes that were stained with mud. Really, she had seen so many, yet her heart throbbed each time she heard or witnessed it.


    Now after seeing Sang Wan¡¯s gentle behavior and her especially good treatment towards Shi Fengju, she disliked Gu Fangzi even more now that there was someone else topare her with.


    Nanny Li¡¯s words this time around had pushed Gu Fangzi to a corner and she became angrier than before. Not only was she furious, she was also annoyed; however, her feelings did not stop there for she also felt grieved.


    Serving her mother-inw and attending to her husband, those were supposed to be her duty! When had it ever been Sang Wan¡¯s turn!


    The argument itself was a headache. In front of Wang Shi, Nanny Li was no doubt an important figure. Her words were like a sharp knife that cares nothing for Gu Fangzi¡¯s face and whether she can or cannot take it. Her words showed no fear as to whether they would make Shi Fengju or Wang Shi unhappy. She said just what she had to.


    ¡°Nanny, you shouldn¡¯t have said that! In any case, this should stop.¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    In truth, she could not care much about the friction between Nanny Li and Gu Fangzi. However, she could not act ignorant when they were having a face-off in front of her. Gu Fangzi was someone who could make something out of nothing; with this in mind, only heavens know what she¡¯ll say in front of Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Nanny Li nodded repeatedly and smiled, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯re the wife to the young master of this household, you must not only serve your mother-inw well, but you must also look after the well-being of your husband! Otherwise, this old servant¡¯s words would have gone to waste!¡± As she spoke, her brows raised at Gu Fangzi.


    What it meant was: you¡¯re an outsider, and I¡¯ve never seen you take good care of the young master since the beginning. Instead, with the young master looking after you, it must have all been my fault.


    Gu Fangzi was able to read the meaning between Nanny Li¡¯s words, and her anger seemed as if it was about to explode within her.


    ¡°Nanny, aren¡¯t you tired after speaking for such a long time? Quickly, take a seat and have some tea!¡± Sang Wan smiled and interrupted without giving Gu Fangzi a chance to speak before instructing Hong Ye, ¡°Go pour a cup of tea for Nanny!¡±


    Other than the asional grace a master may give, but when a master sat down, there is no way a servant should take a seat in the same room. Nanny Li was one who serves Ning Garden and should not be too presumptuous in front of Sang Wan. To put it simply, she would not sit in the chamber where Sang Wan rests, but in the small kitchen that was just recently opened up at the east side of Ning Garden specifically for maidservants to have their tea break.


    Nanny Liughed after hearing so, ¡°Young Mistress is too kind, this old servant will go have a seat and drink some tea. This old servant shall take her leave first!¡± With that, she followed Hong Ye without batting an eye at Gu Fangzi.


    Enough was enough; she had dealt with Gu Fangzi sufficiently and knew to stop. Otherwise, it would show her as one to be extremely aggressive.


    Gu Fangzi cursed herself under her breath for being meddlesome. Things would have worked out fine without hering to apologize. Just from that, she had to suffer a round of criticism, she truly deserved it!


    Her heart was in a fury of hell. With no mood to continue staying, she barely said a few words and stood to say goodbye.


    Sang Wan also did not insist for her to stay. But after some thought, she asked, ¡°The weather these few days seem pretty good. I would like to invite Cousin Fangzi, Third Sister Shi Lian, and Fifth Sister Shi Rui to the flower garden with me to admire flowers and fly kite, but I¡¯m not sure if Cousin Fangzi is free. Keke, it was brought upst time and Fifth Sister Shi Rui kept wanting to go. Yesterday, she even came to ask me!¡±


    Sang Wan did this to prevent her from going up to Shi Fengju andin about what had happened. Just think about it, from Gu Fangzi¡¯s point of view, if Sang Wan really dislike her, then she would not have invited her. Instead, it would seem as if Sang Wan wanted to have a better rtionship with her, so even if she did want to tell on them, she would have to do thatter.

 Chapter 33 (V2): Scream Again and You’ll Be A Featherless Bird

    <h4>Chapter 33 (V2): Scream Again and You¡¯ll Be A Featherless Bird</h4>


    And even if anything was said, the severity would definitely be lessened.


    Gu Fangzi was not reborn, so she was unlike Sang Wan who was always on her guard and treads carefully. She gave a quick nod to show her answer before rushing off hurriedly.


    Hearing that Gu Fangzi had left, Nanny Li came out from the small kitchen and gave a deep sigh before speaking, ¡°Young Mistress, you truly are too big-hearted! Thatdy is shrewd! You ah!¡± As she spoke, she shook her head and sighed again.


    Of course Sang Wan knew, but there were words that Nanny Li could say but she could not. Smiling, she responded, ¡°Nanny Li, you¡¯re thinking too much. As a rtive, I¡¯m just doing this out of courtesy!¡±


    Nanny Li acknowledged, ¡°That is also good. But it¡¯s just that there are some who do not understand the word ¡®courtesy¡¯ and only knows how to be unreasonable! Young Mistress, you are Young Master¡¯s wife, you¡¯ve got to make sure that everyone remembers that!¡±


    To have everyone remember, to have them ingrain it in their hearts, it isn¡¯t easy. But hearing those words from Nanny Li, she felt a sudden burst of warmth enveloped her heart and she nodded gently with a smile.


    In a blink of an eye, two days went by. Watching the sun slowly rise, the day gradually brightened and the birds began chirping. Sang Wan instructed a few servants to ready some chairs and tables beneath the shade of arge pagoda tree in the costus orchard. The furniture was surrounded by paper screens embroidered with images of twigs, flowers, and grass; and the ground was spread with arge red carpet. She theny down another set of instructions for the different colored fruit pastries to be readied and the small mud furnace to be started for the water to boil before making the tea. Once the instructions were given, the maidservantspleted them systematically.


    While strolling with Cousin Fangzi and two other sisters to the garden, Sang Wan suddenly remembered Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress, Zhou Jingyi. It would not be too thoughtful of her for missing her out, and thus she instructed a servant to invite her to see if she woulde.


    Unexpectedly, Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress epted with no sign of hesitation and left together with two servant girls, Su Qing and Su Bi.


    When Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress arrived, Sang Wan, Gu Fangzi, Shi Lian, and Shi Rui were already there. Sang Wan and Gu Fangzi were chatting while having a hot cup of tea; Shi Lian was at a side admiring the blooming peony flowers, but with the pink robe she was wearing, she looked extremely beautiful; there was also Shi Rui who pulled the maidservants in to fly the kite with her on a patch of grass. The sound ofughter could be heard from afar as Shi Rui yed together with the maidservants.


    ¡°I¡¯m here, and it sure is lively!¡± Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress grinned and she approached the group before gently waving the fan in her hand as she lowered her head to greet. ¡°Sister-inw Sang Wan, Cousin-inw Fangzi!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw Jingyi!¡±


    ¡°Cousin-inw Jingyi!¡±


    Sang Wan and Gu Fangzi rose from their seats. Sang Wan was the host and Gu Fangzi¡¯s position in the household was not small, thus the two stood to greet.


    Tea was already served, and the three went to get seated once the greeting was over.


    ¡°I should have visited Sister Sang Wan first, but to think that Sister Sang Wan would be the first to initiate it!¡± Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress took a sip from the cup and smiled before speaking.


    Face shaped like a melon seed, eyes bright and lively, and her skin fair and smooth. The moment she opened her mouth to speak, her cheeks summoned a slight dimple and her brows revealed a sense of gentleness and generosity. On a whole, she looked extremely delicate.


    ¡°Not at all. We¡¯re a family so there¡¯s no need to draw such a distinct line.¡± Sang Wan hooked the edges of her lips to show a smile.


    Gu Fangzi gazed at the two people andughed, ¡°My two cousin-inws sure are dignified and polite, gentle and generous. Before, my thoughts were that the both of you were simr, but now upon seeing so, the both of you truly are!¡±


    Sang Wan and Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress looked at each other and smiled beforeughing out in unison, ¡°Cousin Fangzi sure speaks well!¡±


    Gu Fangzi smiled, but her heart actually looked down on how pitiful Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress was. To have married to an insensible husband, she was destined to never be able to lift her head up! All that because she was incapable; if it were her, Gu Fangzi, so what if his heart had someone else? All that matters was to snatch him back! However, that current person had no such capabilities, and thus deserves to live the rest of her life as a widow under the rage of her mother-inw.


    Sang Wan and her were the same, and so should their fate!


    ¡°Anyhow, I¡¯ll go fly a kite with Fifth Sister and I shall not disturb my two dear cousin-inws! On such a day, flying kites is truly the best! Cousin Sang Wan truly knows how to pick a right date!¡± Even though Gu Fangzi looked down on Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress, her heart despised Sang Wan even more; she simply wanted to be away from them.


    Sang Wan and Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress nodded and watched as Gu Fangzi left.


    ¡°Those roses seem to have bloomed pretty well. Sister Sang Wan, lets not sit here any longer and take a stroll over there, shall we?¡± After no more than two sentences, Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress smiled and suggested.


    ¡°That would be good too!¡± Sang Wan smiled gently. The two got up from the seats and strolled over to the roses as they chatted.


    With just a facial expression, the maidservants following behind took their leave.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart began to beat loudly with a believe that Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress had something to speak to her in private. On the surface, she spoke leisurely but her heart was discreetly urged to be alert.


    However, Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress seemed to be only admiring the flowers. Other than her pointing and exining the roses ahead, no other topics were raised.


    Moreover, she was very knowledgeable in the topic she was on. Speaking at the end of her fingertips, she exined that there were about ten varieties of roses among the patch of roses with some which looked very alike. Casually, she added how some of them bloomed well, pointed out those varieties that should not be nted the way they were, which roses needed pruning to make their color more distinct, which colored rose shouldpliment each other, and such. Listening enthusiastically, Sang Wan was simply amazed and her horizons were broadened.


    ¡°Sister Jingyi clearly is intelligent and good natured that is hard toe by!¡± Sang Wan could not help but eximed.


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress covered her mouth and giggled lightly before speaking humbly, ¡°Sister Sang Wan¡¯s praise is too much! That was nothing but what I do when I¡¯m idle and wishes for time to pass me by blindly!¡±


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress¡¯s eyes darkened a little and a sense of loneliness shed past her which did not escape Sang Wan¡¯s eyes. Sang Wan¡¯s heart softened for the situation they were in were simr: having to marry to a husband who¡¯s madly in love with another woman.


    However, from what Sang Wan saw, Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress was way more fortunatepared to her. Even though Shi Fengming had eloped with the tavern girl, a tavern girl was still a tavern girl and Shi Fengming would sooner orter return home. Although Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress looked lonely, there was still hope for her!


    But as for her? Her husband¡¯s love of his life was just right in front of him. She held a position and their love was mutual. Not speaking for the distant future, but as to what would happen after a year, she dared not think about it.


    ¡°To have observed so detailedly, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve put in the effort and heart to it. If you didn¡¯t like it, then why the effort, no? Having a hobby to pass the time is nothing but a good thing! And it¡¯s good to see that Sister Jingyi is an open-minded person!¡± Sang Wanughed.


    ¡°You tter me,¡± Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistressughed embarrassedly but smiled and continued, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, if you would like, I cane over to have a chat with you whenever you¡¯re idle in the future. How about it?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯d be great! I wouldn¡¯t dare wish for anything else!¡± Sang Wan smiled and her eyes met with Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress.


    As their gaze connect, the bond between sister-inws formed. However, a burst of noise could be heard from not far away which sounded very excited, especially the ear-piercing shrieks from thatss, Shi Rui, that might even pierce the heavens!


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress became startled.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head over there quickly and see!¡± Sang Wan quickly responded.


    The two hurried over. Seeing them, the maidservants made way for them and their expressions quickly dampened.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, Sister Jingyi,e and see,e and see!¡± Shi Rui¡¯s eyes sparkled as she pointed her little finger to a white cockatoo that sat obediently on Liu Ya¡¯s hand before shrieking again in excitement, ¡°Liu Ya¡¯s so impressive! That cockatoo is father¡¯s new precious. It¡¯s very vicious that even father wasn¡¯t able to tame it! To think that Liu Ya is able to do it instead!¡±


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress was bewildered and could not help butugh, ¡°That truly is!¡±


    Sang Wan quicklynd her gaze on the cockatoo. A cockatoo covered with feathers as white as snow; has a pointed beak; ws colored red like fresh blood; and two ck ze-like eyes. It had its head held high with great arrogance but sat obediently on Liu Ya¡¯s hand as she gently fondled its feathers.


    An exnation from Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress came from the side of her ear, ¡°Sister


    Sang Wan, you may not know but this white cockatoo was recently gotten by my father-inw. I heard that this white cockatoo is very difficult to get hold of and costs almost more than three hundred silvers! Although its nice to look at, it¡¯s also very clever; whatever it sees, it learns! But because it is too clever, it doesn¡¯t give in to treats and listens to no one. Yesterday, it even pecked my father-inw¡¯s hand! However, I¡¯m not sure how it actually got here!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s mind was suddenly hit with a burst of dizziness and her legs almost gave in. Her heart felt an ominous premonition and stared at Liu Ya, ¡°Why are you still holding onto that for? Zhide, send it back to Second Uncle!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress¡± Liu Yaplied and moved the hand, with the cockatoo sitting on it, closer to Zhide.


    The cockatoo unexpectedly pped its wings angrily at Zhide and screamed, ¡°Go away! Go away! Don¡¯t touch me! Don¡¯t touch me!¡± Amused, the crowd burst intoughter.


    Liu Ya hurriedly made some chirping sounds with her mouth and her other hand gently stroked the cockatoo¡¯s feathers. Only then did it calm down.


    ¡°Young Mistress, why don¡¯t this servant send it back to Second Old Master!¡± Liu Ya smiled.


    Already, Shi Rui was ovee with curiosity and asked, ¡°Liu Ya, Liu Ya, why does the cockatoo only listens to you? How did you do it?¡±


    Liu Ya smiled contentedly. She was born a hunter, and taming birds was a trait she had!


    Just before Liu Ya could open her mouth to speak, Sang Wan coldly spoke ahead of her, ¡°She, was just lucky. What does she know! Alright, send it back with Zhide! Go!¡±


    Even though Liu Ya did not know why her master did not allow her to speak of her background, she knew that she would never do anything to harm her. As such, she zipped her lips tightly and apanied Zhide to leave.


    The two were not able to walk a distance before the call of a few servants could be heard. ¡°Xiao Bai! Xiao Bai!¡±, ¡°Xiao Bai, where are you?¡± They were definitely servants sent by Second Uncle Shi to find and retrieve the white cockatoo.


    ¡°Xiao Bai¡¯s here! Xiao Bai¡¯s here!¡± Shi Rui waved and projected her voice.


    The few maidservants heard her and quickly ran over. Seeing the white cockatoo sitting obediently on Liu Ya¡¯s hand, they all became startled.


    After confirming the situation, Sang Wan instructed Liu Ya to hand the white cockatoo over to the group of maidservants. However, just like what happened with Zhide, the group of maidservants were unable to touch Xiao Bai. The few maidservants looked at each other and requested for Liu Ya to be the one to send it back.


    Sang Wan eventually changed her mind and remained silent.


    The crowd felt that something was strange but Gu Fangziughed it off and smiled, ¡°Cousin Sang Wan, why don¡¯t you just let Liu Ya go? Second Uncle Shi sees that cockatoo as his precious. If Liu Ya were to send it over, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll be rewarded very generously!¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s even more so to not let her go!¡± For the first time, Sang Wan was opposed to Gu Fangzi¡¯s idea in front of a crowd. Her gaze quickly swept back to the few maidservants and she smiled, ¡°It must¡¯ve been hard on my few dear sisters, but I feel that the group of you should be the ones to return it!¡±


    Having said, Sang Wan approached the cockatoo and personally took it with her hands.


    The white cockatoo became furious and was about to shriek, but Sang Wan fiercely red at it and leaned her face closer before threatening it under her breath, ¡°Keep your beak shut! If you scream again, I¡¯ll pull all your feathers off!¡±

 Chapter 34 (V2): The Chained Incident Caused By A Cockatoo (1)

    <h4>Chapter 34 (V2): The Chained Incident Caused By A Cockatoo (1)</h4>


    The white cockatoo immediately became scared and had its beak shut tight, but its eyes red at Sang Wan with resentment. It drooped its head andy motionlessly.


    From the view of the crowd, Sang Wan seized the white cockatoo with her hands and casually handed it over to a maidservant, ¡°Go and return it! Here!¡±


    The group of maidservants joyfully gave their thanks before running off. The crowd had their eyes wide opened as they gaze at Sang Wan and her servant as if they were some kind of monster.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, Sister Sang Wan! That was awesome! Sister Sang Wan, how did you do that?¡± Shi Rui screamed in excitement as she looked at Sang Wan, her eyes sparkled full with admiration.


    Sang Wan leaned over and pinched her tender cheek gently and smiled, ¡°Because, Sister-inw raised a white cockatoo before!¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± As if ovee by a sudden realization, Shi Rui gasped and went on, ¡°No wonder Xiao Bai listens to you and Liu Ya!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled speechlessly and pouted, ¡°Yourrge kite fell again!¡±


    ¡°Aiya,¡± Shi Rui covered her face in exasperation and scolded the maidservants for not keeping an eye on it before turning to fly the kite.


    The one responsible for holding the kite spool gleefully apologized. Just then, the focus were all on themotion, who would have the thought to mind the kite at all?


    Sang Wan¡¯s attention became rather unsettled thereafter and would asionally drift away when having a conversation with Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress. Thinking that she might be tired, Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress sat for only a while longer before smiling and taking her leave. At the sight of Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress leaving, Shi Lian followed and left. Eventually, the crowd scattered.


    However, just before then, unnoticed by Sang Wan, was a profound gaze eyeing at her and a strange hook emerged at the edge of Gu Fangzi¡¯s lips.


    At night after Shi Fengju returned, he proceeded to ask Sang Wan jokingly, ¡°Ai, how did you make that white cockatoo yield?¡±


    Sang Wan understood that the excuse she gave to fool thosesses in the day would not work on Shi Fengju. Firstly, a white cockatoo was not cheap and money might not necessarily be able get one. With the Sang family¡¯s current financial situation, getting one was impossible. Secondly, by her temperament, her reading and writing in her parental household was mostly dependent on her sister-inw¡¯s mood, let alone raise such a vain and delicate bird.


    Sang Wan felt a little ufortable and cited coldly with a tone a little harsh as she stared at Shi Fengju, ¡°How would I know? All I did was give it a little scare!¡±


    Shi Fengju became more interested and went closer to her before asking with a smile, ¡°That¡¯s interesting, how did you scare it?¡±


    Sang Wan leaned her head partially to a side and looked at Shi Fengju, ¡°I said, if it doesn¡¯t listen obediently, I¡¯ll pull all of its feathers off!¡±


    Shi Fengju became startled for a moment beforeughing and pasting himself onto a nearby couch. Zhide was taken aback by the sudden noise and pushed the screen to enter but Shi Fengju waved her out. As hisughter continued, he added, ¡°No wonder! I must say, that truly is something you woulde up with! Second Uncle wasn¡¯t able to handle it because he couldn¡¯t even bare to say such words to it! Haha, hahaha!¡±


    Giving a gaze at Sang Wan¡¯s tranquil and tender face, and then thinking of her everyday kind and polite behavior, before imagining the expression she had when she spoke those words to the bird; Shi Fengju felt hisughter almost bursting out from his heart, but he held it in. In a serious tone, he shook his head and sighed, ¡°That¡¯s strange! To think it can actually understand! Well, many said it was smart, it seems that¡¯s really true!¡±


    Once he finished, theughter in his heart burst through his mouth and heughed non-stop.


    Shi Fengjuughed until his stomach hurt. Lifting his gaze back at Sang Wan, he felt that something was not right. Her brows were somewhat pressed and her lips were lightly zipped. A feeling of gloominess could be seem in her eyes.


    ¡°Is something bothering you?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart suddenly sank and he hurriedly sat himself straight and asked in concern.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Sang Wan tilted her head to a side and quickly dabbed her eyes lightly with her handkerchief.


    ¡°Sang Wan, did something happen?¡± Shi Fengju could not help but held onto her hand, ¡°Sang Wan?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing!¡± Sang Wan forced a smile and looked at him, ¡°Really, it¡¯s nothing. It¡¯s just that I suddenly thought of something else, and even if I said it, nothing will change! Nevermind, it¡¯s nothing, really.¡±


    Since she refused to say, Shi Fengju insisted no more and smiled, ¡°If it¡¯s nothing, then that¡¯s good. If there¡¯s anything, just tell me and I¡¯ll deal with it.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart felt somewhat disappointed after hearing him say ¡®I¡¯ll deal with it¡¯ instead of ¡®I¡¯ll help you¡¯. Still,pared to her previous life where him showing any concern towards her was like trying to ascend the heavens, he was already a few folds better this time around! As such, she kept that disappointment back into her heart and nodded with a smile before giving a soft ¡°En¡±.


    Shi Fengju thought for a bit, butughed, ¡°Do you like white cockatoos? If so, want me to buy you one as a gift?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Sang Wan suddenly became angry and red at him fiercely before the two could not help butughed together.


    After two whole days, Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress suddenly sent someone to invite Sang Wan to the grove. As it was an invitation that was difficult to refuse, she left for the grove together with Hong Ye.


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress personally greeted her at the entrance and warm-heartedly led her in.


    ¡°I was a little idle so I made some pastries and asks for Sister-inw Sang Wan toe and have a taste. If it doesn¡¯t taste good, don¡¯t me me!¡± Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistressughed.


    ¡°Why would I? Sister Jingyi¡¯s is good with her hands!¡± Sang Wan giggled and she fixed her gaze at the deep-fried golden rectangr pastry that was served on a white porcin dish. They were each about two inches long and looked very delicate and lovely. It did not take long before the rich aroma began to drift along with the steam and into her nose.


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress smiled and invited Sang Wan to have a taste. Sang Wan skillfully used the small chopstick that was in a small silver pouch beside the pastry and had a taste of the pastry before nodding her head with praise, ¡°The outside is crisp and tender, sweet but not too greasy. Amidst that sweetness is also a little bit of sourness. But what¡¯s best of this would be how the fire was controlled just right so that there¡¯s no charred taste. This deep-fried milk custard truly is vorsome!¡±


    Deep-fried milk custard uses fresh milk that is curdled into cheese. The cheese is carefully cut into smaller pieces before being bathed in flour to form a thinyer covering the cheese. Once done, the cheese is then deep fried until golden brown. Cheese is a staple for the grasnd people but is rarely seen eaten by people from the South.


    Without even thinking, Sang Wan recognized it.


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress was surprised and sheughed, ¡°It seems Sister Sang Wan has eaten this before! There I thought I was the only one who knew of this and wanted to show off a little!¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head andughed, ¡°I¡¯ve only seen them in books, but I¡¯ve never eaten them before! Sister Jingyi truly is good with her hands!¡±


    Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress giggled, ¡°Sister Sang Wan¡¯s feedback is right on point, truly from a literary household. What¡¯s more, I heard that Sister Sang Wan¡¯s culinary skills are also very good; Sister Sang Wan, when will you let me have a taste of it to broaden my vision?¡±


    Sang Wan did not reject with an excuse but smiled and nodded, ¡°If it doesn¡¯t meet your expectations, you mustn¡¯tugh!¡± Before marriage, she had learned many main course recipes, making pastries, and cooking porridge and soup. As for those sort of pastries which she saw in the collection of books she had, she had secretly tried making them herself and their end results were not too bad.


    ¡°Why would it not? I would even want Sister Sang Wan to give me some cooking lessons!¡± Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress spoke. The two looked at each other and smiled.


    After sitting for a while longer, Sang Wan then took her leave. Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress followed her before seeing her off at the gate where they both said their goodbyes.


    ¡°Second Young Mistress, why didn¡¯t you raise it up?¡± Gazing at the back of Sang Wan and her servant as they left, Su Qing softly asked.


    Second Young Mistress sighed shook her head, ¡°I just couldn¡¯t! Tell me, how should I even put those to words!¡±


    Second Young Mistress could not help but feel a little sympathetic towards Sang Wan. Such a calm and smart, gentle and generous person; why doesn¡¯t her husband like her? That Gu Fangzi is unkind and sarcastic, and greasy to all, who deserves no consideration for her words!


    ¡°But Second Young Mistress, how are you going to exin to Second Old Mistress?¡± Su Qing could not help but worry.


    Second Young Mistress sneered, ¡°I won¡¯t!¡± If thatdy herself did not have the face to do it and push that task onto her shoulders, did she think she was so foolish? In any case, this household felt nothing like home which even she did not wish to stay!


    Back in Ning Garden, Nanny Li heard that Sang Wan had returned after meeting with Second Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress. She knit her brows and went to find an opportunity to speak with Sang Wan when no one was around, ¡°Young Mistress, I¡¯d advise you to meet with Second Young Mistress less frequently;rgely because Old Mistress finds her ominous!¡±


    ¡°Ominous?¡± Sang Wan asked in surprise.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Nanny Li nodded and continued, ¡°Old Mistress felt that since Second Young Mistress was unable to hold onto Second Young Master, who ran away from home the moment she entered the household, she was seen as an ominous person. Young Mistress, if you¡¯re idle, it¡¯d be best to interact less with her!¡±


    How could she have been med? Sure enough, one¡¯s son is always right and the wrong is always on others!


    Sang Wan heart was in disapproval and deeply rejected the advice. However, she knew that Nanny Li said so with good intentions and thus nodded, ¡°I understand. In the future, I¡¯ll try to interact less frequently with her. Oh, one more thing, Nanny, there¡¯s something I¡¯d like to ask for your opinion, but I¡¯m afraid that¡ª¡ª¡±


    Nanny Liughed, ¡°Young Mistress, there¡¯s no need to see me as a stranger. If you¡¯ve something to ask, just bring it out! Being able to share part of Young Mistress¡¯s worry is a blessing to this old servant. If not, we can alsoe up with a solution!¡±


    ¡°Nanny¡¯s right!¡± Sang Wan smiled and the color on her face returned, ¡°Today, when I went to visit Sister Jingyi, I had this feeling that she seemed to have something to tell me. But since she did not say anything, I did not ask. However, my heart¡ª¡ª¡±


    Before Sang Wan was able to finish, Nanny Li pped her hands and interrupted, ¡°If I may! Second Young Mistress would usually never go about interacting with others. If she had invited you over, then it seems there must be something! Young Mistress, don¡¯t take things too hastily; this old servant will have someone inquire about it!¡±


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll leave it to Nanny Li!¡± Sang Wan suddenly felt at ease. With Nanny Li¡¯s position in the household and her seniority, inquiring about matters was an easy task for her.


    Nanny Li was no doubt truly quick and efficient in her task. On the same night, she was back with the news.


    ¡°This matter is truly difficult to put into words!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s face was ashen yet angry. ¡°Second Old Master, from God knows where, had heard of the incident between Liu Ya and the white cockatoo. As such, he asked for Second Old Mistress to have Young Mistress hand Liu Ya over to him! He also said that Liu Ya would definitely be treated well, and for Young Mistress¡¯s well-being, she shall be his concubine the moment she goes there! But because Second Old Mistress did not have the face to ask Young Mistress, she had Second Young Mistress do it instead! Today, Second Young Mistress asked you over was to discuss this matter! However, she too found it inappropriate to ask and thus did not say anything!¡±


    Hearing so, Sang Wan felt as if her whole body had fallen into a hole during winter; cold and stiff.


    Atst, what she had tried to prevent still came!


    She still remembered the incident that had happened in her past life. On a day when Second Old Master was drunk in the flower garden, he forcefully preyed on Liu Ya who was just passing by. After that, Liu Ya could not stop crying. However, what was done was already done and she had to stay by Second Old Master¡¯s side.


    But to Second Old Master, Liu Ya was nothing but just a temporary ything. Had he ever truly fancied her?


    As an uncle who forced himself upon a servant of his nephew¡¯s wife was not a glorious thing to do. Second Old Mistress could not let things be and poured dirty water all over Liu Ya and saying that she was shameless for seducing her husband. She even brought that anger up to Sang Wan,ining to her about how she never disciplined her own servant. As a result, Sang Wan received a long lesson from her mother-inw and kneeled for a whole night, and as for her punishment, she was confined for three whole months in her chamber.

 Chapter 35 (V2): The Chained Incident Caused By A Cockatoo (2)

    <h4>Chapter 35 (V2): The Chained Incident Caused By A Cockatoo (2)</h4>


    Liu Ya¡¯s situation was not any better too. Whenever Second Old Mistress saw her, she would recall her husband¡¯s embarrassing act and thus wishes to never see her anymore. Concubine Shui and Concubine Fang both saw her as an eyesore and a thorn in the flesh, and thus, they thought of many ways to toss her around. In less than a year, Liu Ya was tortured into a soulless husk and would often fall ill. Thereafter, she was sent to the farm and no news of her was ever heard since then.


    In this lifetime ever since Sang Wan entered through the main doors of the Shi family, she had always stressed upon not easily letting Liu Ya leave Ning Garden, and if there was a need for her to leave, she would always be apanied by a young servant; all to prevent the incident from happening again.


    But who would have thought that there was no escape from fate? The wheel of fate was truly biased, where a slight twist to the route still led her back to the checkpoint!


    In the end, Liu Ya had once again caught Second Old Master¡¯s eyes.


    Today, Second Young Mistress did not open her mouth to speak of the topic, but who knows maybe tomorrow it would be Second Old Mistress¡¯s turn to speak about it.


    On that thought, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes reddened and she asked, ¡°Nanny, what do you think should be done?¡±


    Nanny Li frowned, ¡°This isn¡¯t a task that¡¯s easy to handle. Young Mistress may not know, but even Second Old Mistress is afraid of the Second Old Master and his temperament. Whatever catches his eye, even if it were just a brief moment, he would want to get his hands on it! Second Young Mistress may not have spoken today, but tomorrow, it may be Second Old Mistress¡¯s turn to ask for Liu Ya personally! It will be difficult to refuse since she is an elder in the end! What¡¯s more, although the matter isn¡¯t clear, but many of the maidservants had already caught wind of it. If Second Old Master insists on having Liu Ya, then I¡¯m afraid that in the future¡ª¡ªwho would dare to enter into a rtionship with her?¡±


    As Sang Wan¡¯s personal servant, her only way out were three options. One, was to attain the highest position a maidservant could get by closing the deed with Shi Fengju; and once she lived up to her expectations, her position can be raised to be his concubine. Two, she could marry to a head servant from the Shi household; And three, to receive her master¡¯s grace and be released from her position, allowing her to roam free and search for her own husband!


    But now that Second Old Master had already opened his mouth, Shi Fengju would not likely take her in in any case. And even the family¡¯s servant would not dare to marry her. It would also be the same for those not within the household!


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart instantly sank and she trembled slightly.


    The meaning behind Nanny Li¡¯s words was to tell her topromise. After all, if Second Old Mistress were to open her mouth to ask, her being the younger member of the family had no rights to go against an elder. If an argument were to spark, Nanny Li also wishes for that to not happen.


    ¡°Liu Ya thatss!¡± Nanny Li sighed deeply, ¡°How unfortunate!¡±


    That meaning was to have Sang Wan fully give up on her personal maidservant.


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Sang Wan reluctantly rxed her facial muscles. Clenching her teeth, she spoke with great difficulty, ¡°But, I¡¯ve already spoken with Liu Ya privately that I would hand her over to Lord in the future. As for that matter, Lord has already known! If I were to hand her over to Second Old Master, how am I supposed to tell Lord? I¡¯m afraid that he might¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°There was such a thing?¡± Nanny Li became surprised and frowned, ¡°That,¡±


    Since Sang Wan said so, and Lord had already known, then Liu Ya was already considered as one of the young master¡¯s people, so of course Second Old Master could not have her.


    For those who belonged to the young master, Nanny Li was determined to neverpromise.


    ¡°Then things are now made simpler!¡± Nanny Li cut the chase and spoke, ¡°Since the matter has already gotten to such a point, Liu Ya definitely cannot go to Second Old Master. Young Mistress just needs to Liu Ya to be in the same room as Young Master! Since the matter with Second Old Master isn¡¯t openly disclosed, then we¡¯ll act as if we didn¡¯t know. When tomorrowes, there¡¯ll not be any way for Second Old Mistress to ask for Liu Ya!¡±


    ¡°That¡ª¡ª¡± It was Sang Wan¡¯s turn to be taken aback. Nanny Li truly was talented!


    The more Nanny Li thought, the more she felt that her idea was good and gave a firm confirmation, ¡°Let¡¯s just do that!¡±


    Seeing that Sang Wan¡¯s expression was a little off, Nanny Li thought that she was being jealous. Warmly, she persuaded, ¡°Young Mistress, since you¡¯ve already told Young Master that Liu Ya will belong to him, then it is just a matter of time only! You ah, should be more open-minded! From what I see, Liu Ya isn¡¯t frivolous and would one way or another feel extremely grateful towards your actions! If in the future, a storm really stirs up, this old servant has many means up my sleeves to handle her! So long as this old servant is present, no one in the entire Ning Garden will dare to show disrespect to Young Mistress!¡±


    The matter had already reached this point and Sang Wan could only dodge the bullet by agreeing for Nanny Li might otherwise begin to doubt her words.


    ¡°Then it seems that¡¯s the only way!¡± Sang Wan sighed deeply and continued, ¡°Lord should still be in the study room, right? Then I will have Liu Ya apany me to bring him supper and conveniently have her stay to serve him!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good! A logical way of thinking!¡± Nanny Liughed and praised, ¡°Young Mistress truly is both intelligent and courageous!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled bitterly to herself. Intelligent and courageous? She wasn¡¯t worthy of those words! At the very least, she wasn¡¯t for now with all the lies she was telling. Shi Fengju and Liu Ya, being the two affected parties; even they did not have the slightest clue.


    ¡°Since things have ended up this way, Nanny, I¡¯ve got a few words to give to Liu Ya.¡±


    ¡°Of course you do!¡± Nanny Li nodded. ¡°Smoothing out the uneven surface would definitely save you a lot of trouble in the future! Young Mistress, please take your time then, this old servant shall go and call for someone to prepare the supper!¡± With that, she left.


    Sang Wan gently sighed and ordered for Liu Ya to enter.


    ¡°Young Mistress, this servant is here!¡± Liu Ya grinned. Her ck eyes were clear and brilliant, and her cheeks were a little red. The vibe she gave as she smiled was no doubt a peaceful one.


    Sang Wan could not help but felt a little sad. Sang Wan was extremely certain that Liu Ya¡¯s behavior clearly showed that she was unwilling to go with Second Old Master. Therefore, the words she spoke just then, though little, was her trying to make her stand. However, the problem now lies in whether Shi Fengju would be willing to help her! If he doesn¡¯t¡ª¡ªno, he has to help her!


    In ordance with the agreement between them, in the future when she leaves the Shi family, she will be taking Liu Ya away with her. The Shi family cannot take away her own personal maidservant.


    It was not reasonable for her to leave without her own maidservant, was it not?


    ¡°Liu Ya, I would like to speak with you.¡± Sang Wan gazed at Liu Ya with an expression full of seriousness.


    ¡°Young Mistress?¡± Liu Ya could not help but tense up and put her grin away. Feeling somewhat ufortable, she twirled her fingers around each other.


    ¡°No need to be afraid,¡± Sang Wan smiled before telling her the whole story regarding how Second Old Master Shi wishes to have her.


    Before even asking for Liu Ya¡¯s opinion, Liu Ya had already fallen onto her knees and crying in front of Sang Wan¡¯s feet. ¡°Young Mistress, Young Mistress, please save this servant! This servant doesn¡¯t want to, this servant doesn¡¯t want to ah!¡±


    ¡°Keep your volume down, quickly, get up!¡± Sang Wan put her finger onto her lips to gesture Liu Ya to be a little softer before leaning forward to help her up. Gently, Sang Wan asked, ¡°I¡¯m telling you these because I would like to hear your opinion. Since you refuse to go, I have other ns to handle this. However, you must think carefully; are you sure you do not want to? As Second Old Master fancies you, the moment you go over to him, you¡¯ll be his concubine. Are you really sure you do not want to?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to, I don¡¯t want to!¡± Liu Ya shook her head desperately and quickly expressed herself, ¡°Second Old Master already has two concubines and three maidservants who¡¯ve done the deed with him! This servant even heard from a servant serving there that those three maidservants were nothing but just a front. In fact, there are several other girls who¡¯ve slept with him but were not given any title! This servant would rather not marry in this lifetime than go over there!¡±


    She truly was well-informed!


    ¡°Are those words from your heart?¡±


    ¡°Yes, if this servant is lying, this servant deserves to be punished!¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Sang Wan nodded. ¡°We¡¯re sisters so it¡¯s natural for me to help you. You just have to listen to me and follow my instructions. When this matter is over, the events in the future are just events which we¡¯ll ovee in the future, how about it?¡±


    Liu Ya wiped her tears and repeatedly agree, ¡°This servant will listen and follow everything Young Mistress says!¡±


    Sang Wan then revealed her solution to Liu Ya before sighing, ¡°Lord¡¯s heart only has Cousin Fangzi. Me suffering on my own is already enough and I do not wish to implicate you. I¡¯ll request for him to help us and confuse others to let this matter pass. Once that is over, I¡¯ll give you a sum of silver to help you marry officially to a foreignnd. This idea is better than letting you be a person of low standing! With this kind intention, I hope you will not me me for keeping any selfishness, right?¡±


    In Sang Wan¡¯s past life, even though Liu Ya was suffering under the Second Shi family, she still remembered Sang Wan and would asionally visit her stealthily, send her food, help her with several tasks, and would once in a whilefort her. Just by that goodwill, Sang Wan could not ignore the disaster that was about to befall upon her. However, what Sang Wan was even more afraid of was her thinking that she was reluctant to let her be Shi Fengju¡¯s concubine and would end up holding a grudge against her. Only when the disaster was imminent did Sang Wan realize how difficult it was to put them into words, but if Liu Ya were to actually fancy Shi Fengju, then all she would be doing was weing resentment!


    Still, what had to be done had to be done.


    That was because Sang Wan was clear. She was clear that even if she were to willingly let Shi Fengju take in Liu Ya, he would refuse her. Chances were, he might even think that she was trying to break his rtionship with Gu Fangzi. But since what they were doing was just an act, then it all ends up to forcing him to help!


    And instead of letting Shi Fengju outright refused Liu Ya, it would be better for her to give a thorough exnation first. Otherwise, once an ally would be an enemy.


    ¡°Young Mistress,¡± tears flowed down from Liu Ya¡¯s eyes as she spoke, ¡°this servant never had feelings for Young Master! This servant has this saying in her heart and wishes to tell Young Mistress: ¡®Rather a poor man¡¯s wife than a rich man¡¯s concubine¡¯. This servant would never, this servant would never... This servant would rather serve Young Mistress for a lifetime and not get married than be a person of low standing! Those are words from the heart, may Young Mistress discern!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart could not help but ache. Holding onto Liu Ya¡¯s hand tightly, she blinked her wet eyes and nodded, ¡°Liu Ya, if there¡¯s a bowl of rice for me, half will always be yours! Rest assured!¡±


    Liu Ya desperately nodded as her tears continued to fall.


    ¡°Enough, quickly dry your tears!¡± Sang Wan lifted her handkerchief and dabbed her eyes dry before giving a smile, ¡°if Nanny Li were to see us now, it¡¯ll definitely be met with suspicion. Pretend to be a little happier, en, with a little bit of bashfulness.¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya broke intoughter. Hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words, it was difficult for her to continue hanging her head low, and sure enough, there was a little bashfulness in her.


    The master and servant gaze at each other and smiled.


    Not too longter, the supper Nanny Li had someone prepared was ready. Sang Wan opened the food box and took a look inside. It was steaming and the fragrance inside the food box was excellent. There was arge bowl of noodles with chicken soup, apanied with several other side dishes such as leafy vegetables, mushrooms, ham, scallops, etc. Both color and smellplimented each other perfectly.


    Sang Wan ced the lid back onto the food box and handed it over to Liu Ya. Two servants lit thenterns before leading the way forward to Shi Fengju¡¯s study room.


    In order to show enough concern towards Shi Fengju, in front of Nanny Li, so long as he had to remain in the study room untilte at night, Sang Wan would either have someone send food over or have that done personally by herself. Seeing that Sang Wan had arrived, Shi Fengju did not mind her and nodded to have her ce the food at a side.


    Having sensed that Sang Wan did not have any intentions to leave, Shi Fengju finally raised his head and gave her a puzzled look.


    After listening to what Sang Wan had to say, Shi Fengju became furious and shouted ¡®absurd!¡¯. That word was however not meant for Sang Wan but for his own uncle.


    Second Uncle Shi was lecherous and liked to raise goldfish and birds which Shi Fengju already knew but did not mind. That was because it was after all a personal hobby which a rich family like the Shi family could sustain. Compared to other families whose elders knew nothing of business but insists in being part of it just for the gains, Second Uncle Shi was already considered good!


    Note: The word ¡®Second ~¡¯ is referring to the Second family.

 Chapter 36 (V2): The Second Old Master’s State of Mind

    <h4>Chapter 36 (V2): The Second Old Master¡¯s State of Mind</h4>


    He had never involved himself with the business and never had anyints with the share of silvers he had every year. Of course, as the Shi¡¯s business was extremelyrge and the ie was tremendous, the silvers given to him every year were bountiful.


    If his uncle wished to get another concubine, there were so many women under the sun; so why had hee to the idea of hitting on his wife¡¯s personal servant?


    ¡°Not just him. You are absurd as well.¡± Shi Fengju directed it at Sang Wan. If she was not, how could shee up with such a terrible idea?


    Before heading over to the study room, Sang Wan had already given much thoughts to the idea. She insisted with her gaze locked directly at Shi Fengju, ¡°Lord, Liu Ya is my servant and I¡¯ll be taking her away when I leave the Shi family. I¡¯ve only got one capable servant by my side, so please Lord, ede to my request! Moreover, even she does not wish to belong to Second Uncle!¡±


    Shi Fengju became tongue-tied all of a sudden. It was true that they had an agreement; Liu Ya belonged to her, and when she leaves in the future, she would no doubt bring Liu Ya with her.


    ¡°The matter between us, Liu Ya¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head, ¡°No need to worry, she doesn¡¯t know about it. Lord, there¡¯s nothing for you to worry as all we¡¯ll be doing is just an act. When we leave for a faraway ce, this matter will no doubt gradually subside! Lord, please help us!¡±


    Shi Fengju gave a long and deep sigh; he himself was absurd! To think that he would actually agree to such an absurd idea!


    All of a sudden, Shi Fengju felt that there was a side to his wife which he did not know; apart from the gentle side he knew.


    But at this moment, Shi Fengju did not have the heart to think as Sang Wan had already called for Liu Ya to enter before instructing her to stay. Once done, she left, leaving two pairs of eyes staring at each other.


    Seeing Liu Ya standing at a spot indifferently with no sense of uneasiness, Shi Fengju suddenly felt that he himself truly was¡ª¡ª


    He could not find any words to describe it! All he could do was mock himself in discretion: Thisss truly is down to earth! It was all nothing but just an act, and because that, she doesn¡¯t look embarrassed!


    ¡°Just sit at a side!¡± Shi Fengju waved his hand.


    ¡°Yes, Young Master!¡± Liu Ya immediately answered and went to sit at a side.


    A night went by without words. On the next day when Liu Ya came out from Shi Fengju¡¯s study room, news began to spread as if it had legs and almost everyone in the household knew.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face was extremely ashen. A cold re shot from behind at Sang Wan and only then did Sang Wan recall that certain person was still around. Regardless, it was Shi Fengju¡¯s problem! Sang Wan thought harshly.


    This incident was not considered something major. Other than some concerns voiced out from certain parties, the rest had shown little to no interest. The young master epting his wife¡¯s maidservant, in fact, should not even be considered as a problem and even Wang Shi was not bothered to question her son.


    A righteous daughter-inw, and an admirable son; as a mother, why would she even be unhappy?


    Hearing of the news, Second Old Mistress was secretly happy. She was unahappy about her husband¡¯s behavior of luring people into their house. However, because it was her marrying to him and not the other way around, she dared not voice her opinion on that matter. But not only did she not dare to voice her opinion, she still had to asionally attend to her husband¡¯s needs; and because of that, she felt extremely sullen.


    Hearing that Liu Ya was fully received by Shi Fengju, Second Old Mistress secretly felt lucky, but she disyed a face of sympathy in front of her husband, ¡°If only I had known, I would have talked to my nephew¡¯s wife earlier! To think that Jingyi was of no use and was not able to be count on for something so simple!¡±


    Second Old Master did not like Liu Ya all that much. As for her appearance, whether she was tall, short, plump, or skinny, all those he did not know. But what he did know was that the servant was able to make Xiao Bai listen to her obediently! That was the only thing he fancied about her.


    In any case, Xiao Bai truly was clever to even know how to use its own beak to unlock the cage door and escape. Second Old Master thought it would never return and thus felt distressed! But who would have thought that the servant had such an affinity with that bird, for it to fly all the way into her hands?


    If that servant belonged to the household, having her transferred into his domain would have been enough, regardless whether he epted her as his concubine or not. However, she was a personal servant of his nephew¡¯s wife!


    The householdcks no servants, as such, he would always have a reasonable excuse to have the servant transferred over to his domain; and his best excuse was because he fancied her. If he were to say so, his nephew¡¯s wife would definitely not be able to refuse.


    But the unexpected had happened when Shi Fengju epted his wife¡¯s personal servant on the previous night!


    Even though Second Old Master felt that it was a little regrettable, he dismissed the matter before letting out a deep sigh and scolded Second Old Mistress with one to two sentences for notpleting the task sessfully but did not pursue the matter any further.


    Second Mistress listened earnestly and apologized deeply, but she secretly rolled her eyes and scolded in her heart, ¡°Just who was it that was useless? To even dare to reach your hand out for a maidservant of your nephew¡¯s wife, aren¡¯t you afraid what people might think of you!¡±


    At a side, Concubine Shui was not happy. For many years, Concubine Shui had fought against Concubine Fang and was obvious in recent years that she was at a losing end. What came to her mind was to join forces with the new concubine and trample over Concubine Fang. However, because of the recent event that resulted in Second Old Master not being able to obtain Liu Ya as his concubine, her idea was all for naught.


    Feeling frustrated, she deliberately went to find trouble andined to Second Old Mistress, ¡°Don¡¯t you smell the smelly smell from a far? Mistress, just think about it: First Young Master chose such a day to close the deed with that servant, Liu Ya. Doesn¡¯t that make it clear that he is going against our old master and not wishing for Mistress to request for that servant?¡±


    Second Old Mistress was not foolish, and of course had that thought before. However, she was fine with how things were. Or even, she was happier as to how things turned out. As such, Concubine Shui¡¯s words sounded extremely ear-piercing. ring angrily at the concubine, she reprimanded, ¡°Keep your mouth shut! Do not make matters worse! Liu Ya is First Young Mistress¡¯s maidservant; when she wants to give her maidservant to First Young Master has got nothing to do with you! What did you say, about going against my husband? And about not wishing for me to open my mouth? Even Second Young Mistress didn¡¯t raise this topic, then who was it that went about bbering it?¡±


    Having said that, Second Old Mistress stared at Concubine Shui suspiciously.


    ¡°I did not! This concubine absolutely didn¡¯t speak of it!¡± Concubine Shui panicked and quickly waved her hands.


    If it was because word got out that resulted in First Young Mistress to put her guard up and disrupted the old master¡¯s n, then he would definitely pursue the matter until the end and ce all the me onto his wife¡¯s head.


    ¡°Oh?¡± Second Old Mistress observed, ¡°Since it wasn¡¯t you, why is your tone like that? I¡¯m sure you know who it was that let the word out! Speak, who was it?¡±


    ¡°This concubine doesn¡¯t know, this concubine doesn¡¯t know!¡± Concubine Shui softly cussed herself under her breath and sweared. If only she knew that all she would be doing was inviting trouble, she would not have opened her mouth.


    Second Old Mistress sneered in her heart. For a small concubine like you, how dare youe and provoke me? Joke¡¯s on you then! With that, she severely punished the concubine before letting her go.


    Concubine Shui left Second Old Mistress¡¯s ce like a defeated rooster. At the corridor, she was met with Concubine Fang who had a face of smile and a faint amount of ridicule. Furious, Concubine Shui stomped off and repeated the same words, which she said to Second Old Mistress, to Second Old Master.


    Second Old Master did not actually give much thought about the matter that had already passed, but after listening to Concubine Shui¡¯s words, he became slightly unhappy. Coupled with Concubine Shui¡¯s exaggerations, Second Old Master could not stomach the anger in him and went to file his discontent to Second Old Mistress.


    Second Old Mistress immediately knew it was Concubine Shui who spoke out of turn and she developed a sense of hatred towards her behavior but she dared not show that hatred in front of her husband. Smiling, she spoke, ¡°Those words sounded so unpleasant. Didn¡¯t you only wish to have that servante over to exin how she made Xiao Bai behave? Although not easy, I¡¯ll have our daughter-inw ask the servant toe over and ask her personally. And then I¡¯ll exin to you what that servant said, how about that?¡±


    Second Old Master¡¯s eyes instantly glistened; not bad! Instead of having to inconvenience himself by presenting himself in front of his nephew¡¯s concubine, having a woman do it for him wouldn¡¯t make much of a difference!


    ¡°Then it¡¯s a yes?¡± Sensing that her husband was slightly moved, she felt somewhat ted.


    ¡°With your memory, I doubt you¡¯ll be able to remember anything. Have that servant invited over and bring along Rou¡¯er with you!¡± Second Old Master gave her a nce and spoke.


    Rou¡¯er was Second Old Master¡¯s new favorite.


    ¡°Yes, Old Master!¡± Second Mistress promised unhappily. Her heart still harbors a deep sense of hatred towards Concubine Shui, and once all the matter was taken care of, she was sure to cure that concubine of her stubbornness.


    Second Old Mistress knew of her husband¡¯s obsession towards his fish and birds. As such, she dared not drag the task and sent a useful servant to invite Sang Wan over in less than a few dayster. Within the message which she asked to be passed, her implied purpose was obvious.


    Sang Wan was dumbfounded. Her heart could not help but understood why Second Old Master was so out of control. With five wives who would support him unconditionally, there was nothing for him to scruple about.


    Sang Wan knew that dealing with animals was Liu Ya¡¯s field of expertise; and when dealing with animals, there was a unique technique in doing so. As such, she spoke clearly with her and instructed her to teach them with all her heart to avoid any more of such a case from happening again.


    Liu Ya was surprised and was a little proud of herself. Never had she given a thought that she¡¯ll have a chance to guide others. Words were not able to leave her mouth and she nodded repeatedly to show her answer.


    Within Second Old Master¡¯s domain, there was a very wide yard in front of the living quarter. On each side of the yard, there was a porch, and a quartzite road stretched from one end of the yard and through to the inside.


    On both sides of the road sat fourrge vats, at the height of half a grown man, in an orderly arrangement. Those vats were used to keep Second Old Master¡¯s precious goldfish which he had nurtured for several decades. Each of the goldfish was not the same for their colors and shapes were different; one gaze at the numerous goldfish would fill anyone with awe. Sang Wan was not even sure what their names were.


    Sang Wan heard from Nanny Li about Second Old Master¡¯s temperament. That old man purposely had those vats ced in the front yard instead of the back so as to boast to his rtives and guests. Even servants who saw those goldfish could not help but praise him. However, as those fish were delicate, they must not be scared. As such, when walking past the vats, one¡¯s footsteps must be light and their voice must not be loud. Otherwise, the old man would be extremely unhappy. And once the old man bes unhappy, he would often speak in disgust, calling the guests ¡®rough! Vulgar!¡¯ after they left.


    Next to each side of the porch nted a magnificent tree. On the trees, different types and sizes of birdcage were hung. Hopping up and down inside the birdcages were the birds which the second old master kept. Thrush, starling, oriole, parrots, and many others, their feathers beautiful and they were chirping mildly. Just imagine when the first ray of sunshine shines through the dense branches and the many different birds will begin chirping to mark the beginning of a day.


    Sang Wan and Liu Ya followed thess from behind as she guided them on the road. The two, master and servant, followed quietly and did not give a single nce at those beautiful goldfish and expensive birds, let alone inquire or marvel at those animals.


    At this point, Sang Wan did not wish to show any interest that may result in her suddenly bing Second Old Master¡¯s ¡®friend¡¯. The best ending that could ever happen here was that they would never have to return to this ce ever again.

 Chapter 37 (V2): Why Does The Heart Still Feel Aggrieved?

    <h4>Chapter 37 (V2): Why Does The Heart Still Feel Aggrieved?</h4>


    Second Old Mistress was not awkward whenmunicating with them, and she greeted them courteously before diving straight into the purpose of inviting them over. Sang Wan also did not hold back and instructed Liu Ya to teach Rou¡¯er earnestly. At the same time, Sang Wan smiled at Second Old Mistress without giving much thought, ¡°That servant has a good memory, and happens to take care of a white cockatoo when she was serving another master in the past. As she served, she also learned how to take care of the bird! But who would have thought that what she learned there would be useful here?¡±


    Liu Ya arrived at the Sang house at the age of ten, but it was true that she had a master previously. Since she came from a foreign ce, Sang Wan mixed a little false into the truth as she believed that Second Old Mistress was not interested.


    There was only one meaning behind Sang Wan¡¯s words, and that was: Liu Ya only knows just that and nothing else! Do not take her as one who knows all! Just for this, she was only following the little knowledge she had stored in her memory. If anything went wrong, do not me her!


    Having said, the incident hade to an end and Sang Wan could finally be relieved. Liu Ya had no need to repeat the tragic past and the two, master and servant, were able to escape from the disaster.


    But it seemed that Rou¡¯er truly was a clever child, and maybe even a little talented. After the several pointers given by Liu Ya, she was able to sessfully tame that arrogant and tough Xiao Bai!


    Second Old Master was ted and he dotted Rou¡¯er more.


    That should not have hindered Liu Ya in any ways, but there was always this saying that ¡®an enemy of my enemy is my friend¡¯ and likewise ¡®a friend of my enemy is my enemy¡¯.


    Rou¡¯er being greatly favored had led her status to rise above her fiercepetitor, Huan Qiuju, who was of a higher standing than her previously! Qiuju was originally Concubine Fang¡¯s personal maidservant, and the two were extremely fixated on seducing the second old master. When the master gets dotted on, their esteem would naturally rise.


    Still, Concubine Fang¡¯s status was still higher than that of Rou¡¯er so she was not very concerned about Rou¡¯er basking in the limelight. However, Qiuju was extremely unhappy and deliberately brought trouble for Rou¡¯er out of jealousy. But how could Rou¡¯er willingly let her do so? With just a sentence ofin, Qiuju ended up being the one getting scolded!


    Filled with both hate and jealousy, anxiousness and anger, Qiuju dared not touched second old master¡¯s most dotted maidservant and could only bottle those feelings up like a child as night passed. Afterwards, those bottled up feelings were transferred onto the next person-in-line who resulted in Rou¡¯er¡¯s status to rise, and that was Liu Ya. On one of the days, she found a reason to harshly scold Liu Ya and gave her two tight ps.


    Liu Ya kept her young mistress¡¯s words to heart. Added with her fear towards the second old master, she dared not return the favor to one of his closest maidservant and could only cry when she returned to Ning Garden.


    Shocked, the members in Ning Garden asked with concern, and were furious at the treatment after knowing the details. However, they were unsure as to what they could say in such a situation.


    Sang Wan was especially shocked and angry. She was furious to a state that her whole body was shaking slightly.


    Rou¡¯er was one of the second old master¡¯s closest maidservants whereas Liu Ya was her own personal maidservant. However, in the eyes of the public, Liu Ya belonged to Shi Fengju. In short, her status was no lower than Rou¡¯er¡¯s.


    Deep down, Sang Wan knew that she was living her life now too blissfully that others would treat Liu Ya like a raft and test her; which in this case was a hit on her face.


    Although Qiuju was insensible, her master Concubine Fang, on the other hand, was an intelligent person. Otherwise, she who was not the most beautiful in appearance and had no son unlike Second Mistress and the two other concubines would not have been the most doted by the second old master. Even the daughter whom she birthed, Miss Wu, was the most doted child of the second old master. What was even more amazing was apart from the many maidservants who was promoted to be the closest to him, there was none who became a concubine after her. That in itself confirmed her prudence.


    The act of Qiuju hitting Liu Ya, her backing definitely yed a role in it.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart fumed, just who did she think she was provoking? Concubine Fang went overboard with unting her status this time around!


    Then again, she understood. What Concubine Fang was doing was to make an example to the rest of the maidservants in the household, to warn them that they should erase the idea of seducing the second old master to obtain a higher status! Otherwise, just look at Liu Ya; she was about to enter his domain and be his concubine, but that ended up into nothing but airs, and even received a punishment from her own maidservant!


    Sang Wan¡¯s mind had been set. She reached her hand out to Liu Ya and pulled her to sit next to her side. Smiling, she ordered someone to fetch some water for Liu Ya to have her face washed and ordered someone to bring in a bottle of anti-swelling ointment. Sang Wan then went to personally wipe Liu Ya¡¯s tears with her handkerchief and spoke gently, ¡°Enough, don¡¯t cry. Next time, just do a good job then others won¡¯t be able to pick on you!¡±


    As Sang Wan spoke, she quietly pinched Liu Ya¡¯s palm slightly and her eyes gave a quick glimpse at where Nanny Li stood.


    Liu Ya had already rehearsed the tactic with her for quite a number of times and was able to read the signal. Reddening her eyes, she voiced her grievance, ¡°Young Mistress is right, this servant wouldn¡¯t dare to break any of the household regtions in fear of bringing shame to Young Master and Young Mistress! But if others insist on creating trouble out of thin air, finding fault of others on purpose, and being too far-fetched, what ways does this servant have...¡±


    While voicing her grievance, she went on to speak of what had happened prior to the ps before letting the tears of injustice flow down her eyes.


    As Sang Wan listened, she let out a sigh and spoke gently, ¡°So to speak, you were definitely wronged! But that Qiuju belongs to the second old master and is one of his closest maidservants. After all, Lord respects his elders the most, and for the second old master¡¯s sake, we should let it go this time! Don¡¯t keep those ps to heart! Just next time when you see her again, try to keep a distance from her to avoid any trouble for Lord!¡±


    ¡°Yes, this servant doesn¡¯t wish to give trouble to Young Master and Young Mistress! This servant will stay away from her!¡± Liu Ya spoke with grievances.


    Nanny Li who stood at a side was bursting with anger when she heard their conversation. That servant, Liu Ya, being wronged was not a huge matter, but if that were to make trouble for the young master, that definitely must not happen!


    That Qiuju! Thatss, in the end, was nothing but a servant who can be sold at any time; to think that she dared to touch the members from the first family, and have so much guts to punish someone who belonged to the young master, does thatss even respect the young master in the first ce?!


    Previously when Liu Ya narrated her story which depicted that it was Qiuju who was in the wrong, Nanny Li was already annoyed: Why the need to be so low as to have the need to hide away from thatss? Young Master may respect his elders, but there was no reason to let a servant go unpunished for the sake of an elder¡¯s face!


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Nanny Li sneered, ¡°Even if Liu Ya truly was in the wrong, it was unheard of for a maidservant who belonged to the second family to touch one who belonged to the first family. Now with the young master, young mistress, and the management, even Second Old Mistress would not inconvenient herself to punish those not within her area of control! But Qiuju thatss had the guts to do so! This cannot be let off so easily, otherwise, a second time might happen!¡±


    Of course Sang Wan agreed to those words, but her mouth spoke the opposite and urged Nanny Li to let it go this time around for the matter was small, and also because the rtionship between the first and second family may sour if matters were to be blown. However, Nanny Li was firm in her stand and wanted to listen no more. She spoke, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯re the new daughter-inw, and so, just leave this matter to this old servant! We don¡¯t really have to do anything, this old servant will bring Liu Ya to greet Second Old Mistress, and then return the favor to Qiuju and her master!¡±


    With that, she did not forget about Liu Ya and continued, ¡°No need to wash your face andb your hair. Also, no need to apply the ointment;e, we¡¯ll pay them a visit now!¡±


    Liu Ya did not hesitate. Even before Sang Wan was able to decline, she immediately apanied Nanny Li and a few other young maidservants as they left to visit Second Old Mistress.


    It was toote for Sang Wan to have them change their mind, and all she could do was let out a sigh and let them be.


    Hong Ye was still left confused but Zhide was no doubt clear of Sang Wan¡¯s intentions and could not help but give her praise in her heart: Young Mistress truly is witty! What a good strategy!


    In such a situation, letting Nanny Li handle it was no doubt the most appropriate. One was because of her old age and identity that even Second Old Mistress would think twice when going against her; Two was her protectiveness which was famous throughout the entire household. She might not care about those who offended her, but if anyone ever offends the young master, even if it were the heavens, she would not let them save face!


    Deploying her was truly the best option! Second Old Mistress and Qiuju should consider themselves unlucky for not thinking twice when provoking Young Mistress!


    For a master to have such a kind heart, knows how to strategize, and is willing to make a stand for her servants, where else can such a person be found?


    Zhide unknowingly became lost in thought; as a servant, wasn¡¯t having the correct master the most important of all?


    Sure enough, Second Old Mistress was extremely embarrassed about the fact that a maidservant close to the second old master dared to touch someone who belonged to the young master. However, that was not the problem; the actual problem was about Nanny Li having arrived at her doorstep with a few other maidservants. If she did not show her sincerity, the matter would not be solved easily.


    Seeing Liu Ya¡¯s swollen cheeks and teary eyes, Second Old Mistress became even more ashamed and furious. If possible, she would have dragged that Qiuju and beaten her to death right here right now!


    Concubine Fang imed that she was ¡®ill¡¯ and was not present, but had someone return the ps on Qiuju¡¯s cheeks and dragged the crying her over. That person apologized profusely to Second Old Mistress, and then to Liu Ya, before saying that Concubine Fang was furious when she got wind of the news and had already punished Qiuju. If Nanny Li and Liu Ya were still unsatisfied, they may teach the unruly maidservant a heavy lesson for such a maidservant was better gone dead!


    Qiuju hurriedly kneeled down in front of Second Old Mistress to beg for mercy and then to Liu Ya as more tears flowed down her eyes as an indication that she would never dare to do it again. Good words rolled out from Qiuju¡¯s mouth like the water in the Yellow River which immediately put Liu Ya in a difficult position.


    When had Liu Ya ever seen such a scene? In an instant, she became dumbfounded and a sense of guilt birthed in her heart as if she herself was the viin who viciously bullies weak women. Her face showed an expression of being ufortable and retreated behind Nanny Li embarrassedly before giving the look.


    Nanny Li was used to seeing the cheap trick of retreating when the situation was unfavorable and advancing when it was not. Her heart was secretly furious but she understood that she should not be unreasonable¡ª¡ªgiving a heavy lesson was not something an old nanny like her was capable of. As such, she bitterly scolded Qiuju with a few sentences and left with Liu Ya under the polite send-off by the maidservants that were beside Second Old Mistress.


    On the route back to Ning Garden, Nanny Li still felt unsatisfied. Even though Qiuju was punished, she was not punished by her which would inevitably give a sense of empty feeling as if her punch had hit thin air.


    Nanny Li¡¯s face was dark, and Liu Ya who just returned back to her senses also felt aggrieved.


    And because of the hate towards a simr enemy, Liu Ya and Nanny Li¡¯s rtionship became even closer. From behind, she caught up with Nanny Li after a few steps and spoke in doubt, ¡°Nanny, although I had already seen that Qiuju had received her punishment, why does my heart still somewhat feel ufortable; somewhat aggrieved?¡±


    Hearing so, Nanny Li stopped in her tracks and sighed, ¡°Why won¡¯t you? Concubine Fang was quicker than us when ying the cards that the act became unquestionable. What¡¯s worse is that even though it was so obvious that they were acting, we could do nothing but ept that act. It would be strange if your heart felt satisfied at all!¡±

 Chapter 38 (V2): Nanny Li Now Has A Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 38 (V2): Nanny Li Now Has A Daughter</h4>


    ¡°They were putting on an act?¡± Stunned, Liu Ya¡¯s eyes widened.


    Nanny Li was also stunned and her eyes went wide opened for she was speechless: you actually did not even realized it.


    Liu Ya¡¯s widened eyes were filled with consternation which clearly told Nanny Li: Yes, I did not even realize it, and that thought did not evene to me!


    Nanny Li rolled her eyes. She was entirely speechless!


    Liu Ya¡¯s eyes hung low: Sorry!


    ¡°Ai! You ah!¡± Nanny Li sighed deeply and earnestly patted Liu Ya on the shoulder, ¡°You¡¯re Young Mistress¡¯s personal maidservant, and will one day be her right arm! Lass, you¡¯ve much to learn! Like today¡¯s incident with Qiuju, you shouldn¡¯t have just let her bully you and put Young Mistress in a tight spot! You should¡¯ve forcefully brought her to Second Old Mistress right when she hit you!¡±


    Liu Ya became startled, ¡°But, but how will I know if she¡¯ll be willing to go with me?¡±


    Nanny Li sneered, ¡°Of course she won¡¯t be willing to follow you! That¡¯s why that would make her admit defeat and beg for your forgiveness to a point that the hand that hit you would have wished it had hit herself instead!¡±


    Liu Ya¡¯s eyes glistened. From gaining such a huge enlightenment, Liu Ya stood motionless.


    ¡°Liu Ya has received Nanny¡¯s teaching and hopes that Nanny will continue to give Liu Ya more pointers! Please teach Liu Ya, Nanny!¡± Liu Ya¡¯s expression was extremely serious. Retreating a few steps back, she bowed to Nanny Li to take her as her teacher.


    ¡°Enough, enough! There¡¯s no need for this; this olddy doesn¡¯t like this!¡± Like a wise person, Nanny Li went on, ¡°there isn¡¯t much to be taught for it¡¯s all up to one¡¯s awareness! When you safely reach my age, you¡¯ll know almost everything you should know!¡±


    Liu Ya became horrified and could not help but secretly took a glimpse at the old wrinkled face of Nanny Li which looked like the flower of a chrysanthemum. A chill ran down her spin and she sweared in her heart that she definitely would not wish to know only after reaching Nanny Li¡¯s age!


    ¡°Nanny, please teach this servant!¡± Liu Ya insisted without budging.


    Nanny Li frowned and gave Liu Ya a dark look.


    However, Liu Ya understood that Nanny Li was a person whose heart was as warm as spring, and so it did not matter even if she would asionally give a chilly expression. Without fear, Liu Ya faced Nanny Li¡¯s expression with a smile and a thought suddenly came up to her which she could not help but blurt out all of a sudden, ¡°If Nanny doesn¡¯t mind, this servant can be your foster daughter! And in the future, Liu Ya will see Nanny as her own mother and be filial!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s whole body shook, and she made a sound which came out beyond her control. The expression she once wore immediately made a huge change.


    ¡®Own mother¡¯, those two words were like a hammer that heavily pounded at her heart, shattering theyer of sadness that wrapped around it. An explosion roared in her head and her eyes warm to a point where tears were almost shed.


    ¡°This servant was reckless! This servant was reckless!¡± The moment those words were blurted out, Liu Ya immediately knew she was being thoughtless and her face turned red. Hurriedly, she shook her hand and gave a smile, ¡°Nanny, please don¡¯t get mad, just see it as this servant¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Nanny Li suddenlyughed and blinked her teary eyes. Grinning at Liu Ya, she continued, ¡°You¡¯ve said it, from today on you¡¯ll see this old granny as your own mother and be filial, you¡¯ll also have to see this olddy off as your own parent! From today own, you¡¯ll be this old granny¡¯s foster daughter!¡±


    ¡°Nanny...¡± Liu Ya was staggered.


    ¡°Sillyss, still calling me Nanny!¡± Nanny Liughed upon seeing her foolish expression for it was amiable andpassionate before speaking out loud to herself, ¡°But it¡¯s also right that we seek the approval of Old Mistress, Young Master, and Young Mistress before our rtionship can be valid!¡±


    Liu Ya was cheerful and lively in nature but not frivolous. She was ass who treats others well and showed a degree of loyalty. She was also honest and cares for others, which were rarely found in other servants. Compared to Zhide, who was almost uncaring and silent but intelligent, and Hong Ye, who oftencks the use of a brain, Liu Ya was able to capture Nanny Li¡¯s attention even though she arrived in the Shi householdter than the other two. As such, Liu Ya¡¯s words that came out all of a sudden due to impulse gave light in Nanny Li¡¯s mind and she immediately epted!


    The two young maidservants who followed behind looked enviously at each other beforeughing and congratting them. Nanny Li smiled and nodded repeatedly, and Liu Ya could not help but smile embarrassedly.


    Even though Nanny Li said that only after receiving Old Mistress and Young Master¡¯s consent would their rtionship be valid, but it was already very obvious that they would not disagree.


    While envious, the two knew that Nanny Li was still a mighty person in the eyes of the servants. She dared to interfere with matters pertaining to the masters, and asionally let Miss Gu shower in embarrassment, who wouldn¡¯t fear and respect her? Who was so unafraid of death¡¯s door to even dare to request bing her daughter? If deemed by this fearsome olddy that she was being used as a stepping stone to climb higher up the branches, that person would definitely be scolded to a point of no return where even the household would have her stay no longer!


    The two servants looked at Liu Ya, their gaze secretly filled with admiration and fear: Her courage truly is extraordinary!


    Wang Shi and Shi Fengju were extremely happy upon hearing Nanny Li¡¯s request. ted, Wang Shi called for Liu Ya and personally bore witness as Liu Ya kneeled to serve tea to Nanny Li. After hearing Liu Ya call Nanny Li ¡®Mother!¡¯, Wang Shi gifted the two a pair of brocades, ruby gold hairpins, and pendants before ordering the kitchen to prepare a banquet table to celebrate the night.


    ¡°Old sister, you now have a daughter! My heart can finally feel at ease!¡± Wang Shi spoke emotionally and sighed towards Nanny Li.


    ¡°Yes, yes! This old servant has a daughter now!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s face was bright and the smile on her face did not stop. The more she looked at Liu Ya, the more she felt pleased and intimate with her! ¡°Old Mistress, rest assured for this old servant and my daughter will still be dutiful and will continue serving Young Master and Young Mistress!¡±


    Liu Ya also came forward to show her thinking which was apanied with a slight shyness and embarrassment.


    Having seen so, Wang Shi became more joyous and she became more affectionate towards Sang Wan.


    On the surface, Gu Fangzi also congratted the two with smiles, but the handkerchief which she grasped tightly in her hand was drenched in sweat. She was sure that this was something Sang Wan came up with so as to form an alliance to deal with her.


    However, what she did not know was that Nanny Li had privately told Liu Ya that her duty remained the same but would have to vie with Young Mistress so as to not raise any suspicions. Liu Ya hesitated for a moment, and only then did she recalled that she now had the status of a servant who had closed the deed with her young master. Cold beads of sweat formed on her body immediately after the thought.


    That night during the banquet, Nanny Li and Liu Ya apologized before sitting to have dinner along with everyone else. Wang Shi loved the lively atmosphere and specially called for someone to bring in the liquor. Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was simmering in fire which she pushed all those unhappiness and anger at Shi Fengju. Because of that, he went to have a few drinks, but due to the drinks he already had in the afternoon, he became drunk during the banquet.


    ¡°Old sister, Fengju is also happy for you!¡± Wang Shi grinned as she spoke.


    ¡°Old Mistress and Young Master¡¯s kindness towards this old servant, truly, this old servant cannot express it with words!¡± Nanny Li blinked a few times and sighed.


    ¡°Nanny, everything¡¯s fine so long as you¡¯re happy!¡± Shi Fengjuughed. His eyes were in some sort of a trance and his words were a little slurred.


    ¡°Just look at you, drunk to such a state but your mind is still awake!¡± Wang Shi smiled but red at him before instructing Sang Wan to help him back to his chamber to rest.


    Sang Wan could only conply. Stepping forward, she personally helped Shi Fengju.


    At a side, Gu Fangzi clenched her teeth tightly as if almost shattering them and stood with her face livid as she red coldly at the figure staggering off while leaned onto Sang Wan.


    Back in Ning Garden, the maidservants hastily wiped Shi Fengju clean and Sang Wan, together with Zhide, helped Shi Fengju into the chamber. Seeing Shi Fengju crashing right onto the bed, Sang Wan sighed to herself for it seemed she would have to sleep on the floor tonight.


    Who would have thought that once she was done putting away her essories and returning back into the bedchamber, Shi Fengju was already sitting up with his feet hanging at the edge of the bed and his back leaning at the head of the bed? Seeing her enter, he gave her a smile.


    ¡°What are you doing getting up when you¡¯re drunk? You almost gave me a scare!¡± Sang Wan smiled and patted her chest. To suddenly see a person staring nking at her with a smile, it definitely was quite scary.


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°I, I¡¯m not drunk! I¡¯m sober, really! Keke, I never, thought that Nanny, would, have, such, an affinity with, Liu Ya! It¡¯s, been so, long since, I¡¯vest seen, that, olddy, smile. I feel, so happy!¡± With that, he leaned his head to look at Sang Wan and added, ¡°Thank you, Sang Wan!¡±


    Sang Wan giggled beforeughing out loud when beside him, ¡°Not drunk? Just listen to yourself, you¡¯re stammering! Enough, go to sleep quickly!¡±


    Towards a drunk person, Sang Wan let herself loose a lot more and spoke more casually than she usually would. Having said finished, she helped Shi Fengju lie down on the bed again.


    Again, who would have thought that Shi Fengju actually wanted to get out of bed? Half drunk, his limbs felt heavy and he copsed involuntarily onto Sang Wan, pinning her down on the bed.


    Sang Wan almost shouted out from the shock. His body was heavy and an unusual feeling spread throughout her body, making her exhausted and unable to push him away.


    She looked into his pair of deep and ck gem-like eyes which was gazing back at her. The depth of his eyes was misty and blur with something which she could not describe.


    Across the thin clothes, she could feel his warmth gradually enveloping around her which also brought his scent. On the surface, there was a constant blowing of cool and warm air; that was his breathing.


    Sang Wan suddenly felt dizzy and her face was red hot. Her heart beat so quickly that she felt as if she was suffocating, but all she could do was nkly gaze at Shi Fengju.


    Shi Fengju only felt a touch of warmth which he subconsciously liked and was reluctant to let go. His gaze at her was blurry, but under the soft lighting, the woman in front of him had her cheeks bright red with a thin surface of anger. Her lips were slightly dented in as she nibbled it gently as a result of shyness and grievance. And with that pair of waterly ss-like eyes that were crystal clear, it aroused his love and affection. Beneath was her slender and soft neck, and her delicate and beautiful corbone that were both exceptionally exquisite. Shi Fengju¡¯s mind wandered and he subconsciously raised his hand to gently stroke her cheek.


    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing? Get up!¡± Sang Wan jerked herself awake and her expression changed as she stared at him bitterly.


    Perhaps her eyes were too piercing where the change from before and after was too huge that Shi Fengju sobered up. Seeing that his behavior was like a beast preying on a youngdy as he pinned her down and even tried to touch her face, he in fact refused to admit that his heart actually wished to give her a kiss.

 Chapter 39 (V2): Drunk

    <h4>Chapter 39 (V2): Drunk</h4>


    ¡°Sor...sorry! Sorry!¡± Shi Fengju was taken by shock and he frantically got up. Even to his cousin whom he grew up with, he had never been so intimate with her before, so how could he be discourteous towards Sang Wan?


    ¡°Young Mistress! Are you asleep? This servant has brought some soup to help sober Young Master!¡± A crisp knock and a loud call could be heard from outside the chamber.


    The two who were together on the bed was feeling awkward and embarrassed. But because of the sudden voice that rung from outside the chamber, it startled them and their behavior changed! Although Shi Fengju had sobered up, he stillcked the strength. The sudden surprise caused him to lose control of his body and not only was he unable to get up, he fell amorously on Sang Wan. In a single swoop, his lipsnded exactly on hers.1


    The touch was light and soft which warmed their hearts but the two could not help but be stunned.


    Glossy and smooth was all Shi Fengju felt. His mind had beenpletely overtaken and he subconsciously sucked at her lips.


    ¡°You! Let go!¡± Sang Wan was taken by shock and embarrassment that her face was as red as a tomato. With a sudden rose in strength, she pushed Shi Fengju away.


    ¡®Bang¡¯, Shi Fengju was caught off guard and he fell to a side, hitting his head hit at the head of the bed. ¡°Ouch!¡± He could not help but gave a loud cry.


    ¡°Young Mistress?¡± Outside, Zhide heard a sudden noise from within and raised her voice, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, absolutely nothing!¡± Sang Wan sat up feeling both aggrieved and angry as she red at Shi Fengju. Hurriedly, she tidied her attire and uniformed her breathing before answering, ¡°Wait a moment, I¡¯ll be out soon.¡±


    Having said it, she slid the door slightly and received the tray from Zhide before smiling, ¡°I¡¯ll take it from here, you can return and rest!¡±


    Zhide was a little hesitant but nodded and smiled, ¡°Then, this servant will be leaving now!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded and quickly shut the door again.


    If not for Nanny Li who might im that she was being uncaring towards Shi Fengju for not giving him a soup to sober up, Sang Wan was actually unwilling to open the door.


    She ced the hangover soup on the table and spoke with her back facing Shi Fengju, ¡°Lord,e and drink this.¡±


    From the push and the knock in the head, Shi Fengju was already close to being fully sober. Thinking back at his absurdness, he found it somewhat embarrassing. But since Sang Wan had given him face, it would be insensible of him to be angry, and so he gave a slight cough before struggling to get out of bed. Awkwardly, he spoke, ¡°You can go to sleep first. About just now...I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    It would have been better if he did not mention it, but now that he had said it, Sang Wan felt awkward and her heart could not help but be aggrieved. Hanging her head low without a word, she avoided him and returned to bed. Shi Fengju could not help but look back at where she was, the curtains were already pulled and were fluttering as they obstruct his gaze.


    Immediately, he felt disappointed.


    He remorsefully patted his head a few times: Just what was with tonight? I must¡¯ve been possessed by a ghost! We¡¯ve already stated clearly to be a fake couple, so why did I take advantage of her?


    However, thinking back at her angry and pretty face, that breath that was warm and soft to the touch, Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was once again swayed. In the depths of his eyes exposed a sense of affection and his lips curled to show a smile which even he was not aware of.


    After finishing the hangover soup, he sat in front of the table. He had wanted to wait until he was a little more clear-headed beforeying the mattress in fear that he might wake her up due to his carelessness, but who would have known that he would fall asleep the moment he rested his head on the table.


    The woman who was behind the curtain actually did not sleep well. Thinking back at thatplex feeling she had, there was a strange sweetness which she could not describe with words, but beneath that sweetness had both sourness and roughness.


    That person, just what did he take her as? His actions just then, were they sincere or casual? But whichever it was, he deserved a beating for it!


    After all, he never intended to be with her until death, no?


    Although Sang Wan was furious at Shi Fengju, the thought of her pushing him away which resulted in him hitting his head made her guilt-ridden. But seeing him able to walk to the table to drink the hangover soup, he seemed alright to her! If his head had bled from the hit, or anything else, Nanny Li and Mother-inw would definitely rip her open alive! Still, at least he was generous enough to not fuss with her over it.


    If he were truly furious and intended to quarrel with her, the one at a loss would still be herself.


    Now thinking about the agreement between them, just what was the basis of it? Wasn¡¯t itrgely based on his character! If he refused to follow with the promise while acting as if nothing had happened and once again return to his cousin¡¯s side to be inseparable, there was really nothing she could do! After all, he was her ¡®husband¡¯!


    The more Sang Wan¡¯s heart rub, the messier her thoughts became. But as of now, she did not know how she should face Shi Fengju. Twisting and turning, she could not sleep at all.


    Her surroundings were quiet, and there was not a sound of him opening the cupboard andying the mattress. Finally, Sang Wan could not take it any longer and she gently pushed a corner of the curtain to take a peek. There, she saw Shi Fengju sound asleep with his head on the table. The sight lightened her mood as she found it funny and quickly wore a robe over herself before she softly getting out of bed.


    Taking into ount that he was drunk, she no longer fussed over the matter anymore. If she were to let him remain sleeping in such an ufortable position, who knows whether he would wake up the next morning with a neck ache and be extremely annoyed? If that were to happen, then it would be a disaster.


    Sang Wan helped himy his mattress before going over to shake him a little, ¡°Lord! Lord!¡±


    ¡°En? Is it morning yet? Is it time to get up?¡± Shi Fengju vaguely raised his head.


    Sang Wan giggled for a moment before whispering back, ¡°The sun isn¡¯t up yet! Quickly, lie down and go back to sleep!¡± With that, she went to help him up by his arm.


    Shi Fengju followed with little conscious as he swayed right to left and almost threw himself onto the bed.


    At the thought of letting him sleep on the bed for a night, Sang Wan was a little hesitant, but on a second thought, whatever for? Isn¡¯t he in love with his cousin? Then for his blissful future together with her, shouldn¡¯t he suffer a little bitterness now? There was no need for her to be considerate.


    ¡°Not there but here!¡± Once Sang Wan was done settling her thoughts, she pulled Shi Fengju and gestured towards the mattress with her mouth.


    ¡°Oh,¡± With only a word, Shi Fengju lied down on the mattress obediently without another word. Sang Wan helped pull the quilt over him before looking at him again. His breathing was even and his eyes were closed. Surely, he had fallen back to sleep.


    Sang Wan unwittingly stared at his face. A handsome face, a rather high nose bridge, five distinct facial features, and those gentle lines between his eyes. Even while sleeping, he exposed a distinctive attractiveness. Such qualities, wouldn¡¯t they make others admire him?


    Sang Wan sighed quietly to herself. This man was her husband in both her lifetime, yet he had never regarded her as his wife in that lifetime nor were they a real couple in this lifetime!


    Perhaps the hangover soup was extremely effective; Shi Fengju was actually able to wake up the next morning all by himself. Hearing those movements, Sang Wan also got up and helped him clear away the quilt and mattress.


    The atmosphere between the two was a little awkward. Shi Fengju had actually wanted to pretend not to know what he had done while he was drunk, but that memory was unfortunately very clear in his mind which made him unable to pretend.


    ¡°Lord, does your head still feel faint?¡± Shi Fengju was racking his brains in search of a pretext to begin a conversation, but to think that Sang Wan would be a step ahead of him and asked as if nothing had happened.


    ¡°No matter, I¡¯m fine now!¡± Shi Fengju loosened his tensed heart and gave a quickugh.


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good.¡± Sang Wan nodded and smiled, her heart secretly loosening a little as well. With that, the two left together. Since they were husband and wife, Sang Wan had to y her role as the wife to ¡®serve¡¯ her husband.


    On the surface, although the two were trying to disy as if nothing had happened, there was still a subtle element beyond their control which was able to squeeze itself out. The maidservants were able to sense it and became a little more careful than they were on a usual day.


    After breakfast, Shi Fengju left for business. Arriving outside now were Gu Fangzi and Lan Xiang, together with their smiles.


    Sang Wan quickly invited them in with a smile and ordered tea to be served.


    Once a few words of greetings were exchanged, Gu Fangzi instructed Lan Xiang to open a brocade box that was asrge as a palm and offered it to Sang Wan. In it was a pair of chisel flower bracelet. Looking at Sang Wan, she smiled, ¡°A small gift for Liu Ya to congratte her. It isn¡¯t anything that expensive, but I hope Cousin Sang Wan and Miss Liu Ya won¡¯t regard it as unimportant!¡±


    ¡°I shall thank Cousin Fangzi for the gift on behalf of Liu Ya first!¡± Sang Wan smiled. She then directed Liu Ya to ept it before ordering her to give her thanks to Gu Fangzi.


    Liu Ya abided and kowtowed to show her thanks to Gu Fangzi.


    Gu Fangzi quickly leaned forward to help Liu Ya up and smiled, ¡°Enough of the thanks! Otherwise, I will feel embarrassed! You¡¯re now Nanny Li¡¯s daughter and also a servant who has done the deed with Big Cousin, there¡¯s no need for you to give your thanks! Still, congrattions for you are truly blessed! In the future, just have Nanny Li be in control!¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu¡¯s right!¡± Hearing the word ¡®deed¡¯, Liu Ya could not help but feel somewhat guilty and unwittingly drooped her eyes.


    Seeing Liu Ya¡¯s behavior, Gu Fangzi thought her words had hit the spot and she secretly sneered. Her gaze slyly slid past Sang Wan andughed as she looked at Liu Ya, ¡°Oh, there¡¯s no need to be embarrassed, is there? What I said is the truth! Big Cousin respects Nanny Li a lot; now that you have that olddy behind your back, Big Cousin and Cousin Sang Wan will naturally have to treat you better! Isn¡¯t that truly a blessing? Cousin Sang Wan, don¡¯t you say so?¡±


    Liu Ya was still clueless andughed ignorantly, but Sang Wan understood the meaning behind Gu Fangzi¡¯s words for it was nothing more than to provoke her rtionship with Liu Ya!


    Sang Wan secretly sighed to herself. With the heart of a viin, she truly must be foolish to think that everyone was just the same as her! Did it note to her that even if Liu Ya had done the deed with Shi Fengju, she was also her own personal maidservant. Compared to other maidservants, Liu Ya was the closest to her. So why would she hate on her?


    But taking a step back, Sang Wan was at a loss for would Liu Ya still be able to officially marry as a wife?


    ¡°You¡¯re right!¡± Sang Wan spoke pretentiously before nodding and giving a smile.


    Keep acting, just keep acting! Let¡¯s see whether Nanny Li will be more leaning to help Liu Ya or you when she stabs you in the back one day! But it¡¯ll be toote when that happens! Gu Fangzi secretly sneered.


    ¡°So Cousin Sang Wan truly understands!¡± Gu Fangzi frowned a little and spoke for a little while longer before leaving.


    Those maidservants behind suddenly gained a realization: No wonder the atmosphere this morning between Young Master and Young Mistress were a little strange. Maybe Young Mistress was jealous and thus became awkward when around Young Master.


    Liu Ya was too dense to understand and she happily asked Sang Wan, ¡°Young Mistress, this servant wishes to prepare a table to have a meal with Mother and the rest of the sisters in Ning Garden. Could Young Mistress give this servant half a day off to make the arrangements?¡±


    Hearing so, the crowd could not help but gave nces of sympathy towards Liu Ya and they spoke in their hearts, ¡°Young Mistress is already ufortable about, but there you go mentioning it so happily! Just what did Nanny Li see in you?¡±


    However, what the crowd was not able to see was exactly what Nanny Li liked!


    It was her determination in things that were important, and a dense side of her like a block of wood when it came to things that were unimportant!

 Chapter 40 (V2): The Hidden Will Always Reveal Itself

    <h4>Chapter 40 (V2): The Hidden Will Always Reveal Itself</h4>


    Sang Wan was only seen giving a lightugh. She maintained herposure and gave a glimpse at Nanny Li before smiling, ¡°Once you¡¯re done studying in the morning, then you may go! Nanny Li, why don¡¯t you take a day off today too! How is one table enough? Have two tables arranged in the dining hall located in the west, but don¡¯t just invite those within Ning Garden; if you¡¯ve others whom you know outside of Ning Garden, invite them over too. I¡¯m sure Nanny also has a few old sisters she knows of! As for the dishes, just order whatever you¡¯d like under five silvers per table. Also, request the kitchen to pick the freshest ingredient before buying two bottles of fine wine. Just put them all on my tab!¡±


    The moment Sang Wan¡¯s words were heard, both Nanny Li and Liu Ya became ted. With Sang Wan, Liu Ya showed no modesty, but her heart was extremely grateful. With a face full of smiles, she epted with no words of declination. Nanny Li, on the other hand, gave a few words to show humility. Her happiness soared through the sky and she smiled as she imed unworthy of such a feast. Sang Wan naturally had to insist repeatedly and only then did Nanny Li ept with thanks.


    Zhide, Hong Ye, and the rest hurriedly stepped up to say their thanks before congratting Nanny Li and Liu Ya again. A table in an ordinary restaurant which cost no more than two silvers was already excellent, but a table for five silvers, the food would be even more scrumptious and ample. As such, the maidservants were genuinely happy. Even the younger servants could not help but be happy, along with everyone else.


    Nanny Li immediately took her leave. First, she would make clear to Zhide and the rest of the ones whom she would be inviting over before going off to look for her old sisters and tell them about the good news, and invite them over for dinner at the same time for the more who knew of this good news the better.


    The thought of having to read and write came back to Liu Ya. Although she was not as dejected as before when it came to studying, she still exposed a spiritless expression like that of a frozen eggnt which attracted a re from Nanny Li, ¡°You,ss, don¡¯t you think about beingzy! Young Mistress is doing this for your own good, so don¡¯t be ungrateful!¡±


    On the subject, Nanny Li was originally quite unhappy with the fact that Sang Wan was teaching the three; Liu Ya, Zhide, and Hong Ye, on how to read and write. That was because she felt that a servant should know only serve her master and be ever faithful. What use was there to be literate? A little less knowing would be better! Otherwise, a seed of pride might germinate for knowing a few characters.


    However, her opinion of it was different now. In the eyes of the people, and also her own, literacy makes an excellent person. For her daughter to be literate, that was great of course!


    Moreover, by that sentence, it also told Sang Wan that the good she gave to her and her daughter would all be kept to heart. In short, it was to tell Sang Wan not to worry.


    The provocation before from Gu Fangzi, Nanny Li did not take any means to intervene, but instead had her expressionless face eyeing tightly at Sang Wan. If Sang Wan had exposed even a little unwillingness or grievance then, she would definitely feel saddened¡ª¡ªrgely because she was just an old servant. If therees a time when she would have to choose between the young master and her daughter, she would have to choose the young master. She would also have to urge Liu Ya not to put her young mistress in a difficult position and cause the young master¡¯s sanctuary to be a noisy chicken coop. The point she was trying to bring across, she was sure that Sang Wan would be able to understand without the need for her to put her loyalty into words.


    If that itself needed her exnation, then there would not be any meaning left behind it. But if Sang Wan truly did develop a sense of animosity, then even a thorough exnation would have been useless.


    In the end, Sang Wan certainly did not disappoint her. Towards Gu Fangzi¡¯s provocation, she took it as if nothing! Instead, she took the initiative to fork out the money for both the mother and daughter. As such, Nanny Li was even more grateful.


    At night when Shi Fengju returned, he was greeted with a quiet chamber with only two servants standing outside and Sang Wan nestingfortably in a couch inside reading a book. The sight gave him a surprise.


    After hearing the details from Sang Wan, heughed, ¡°I had initially wanted to do that, but I had somehow forgotten about it! Still, thankfully you did it! Only just two tables may be a little too little.¡±


    Sang Wan was at his side as she helped him out of his outer garment and clothes before instructing a servant to fetch some warm water. At the same time, she spoke in annoyance to him, ¡°Ten silvers, enough for even three to four tables. Just rx, Nanny will handle it!¡±


    Even though Nanny Li was decent, she was, in the end, a servant. Two tables were just enough, and any more would be going too overboard. Whatever else that happens behind her back does not matter so long as the surface disyed cloaks it.


    Shi Fengju suddenlyughed and spoke, ¡°You truly areprehensive!¡±


    ¡°Hungry? The dishes were just sent over and the temperature is just right. Should I ask for them to be served?¡± Sang Wan took a nce at him.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to hurry,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s face suddenly became strangely flushed. Raising his hand near his mouth, he gave a light cough before smiling awkwardly as he fished out a small and t jade white rounded box. Giving it to her, he spoke, ¡°That, I just happened to pass by Ming Hua Tang today and conveniently bought this for you. Just have a look and see if you like it.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart shook and wanted to refuse, but seeing the tense look on his face, her heart melted: since it was a gift for her, there¡¯s no reason to refuse it!


    Sang Wan smiled and received it. Her fingers gently stroke the jade box and she leaned her head slightly before speaking mockingly, ¡°Conveniently I see!¡±


    Shi Fengju rubbed his hands embarrassedly but smiled and hurriedly answered, ¡°it was deliberate, deliberate! The shopkeeper said it was thetest cosmetic, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°The things from Ming Hua Tang are always good!¡± Sang Wan gently opened the lid and a trace of orchid fragrance could be faintly whiffed. It was both elegant and refreshing. The cosmetic in the box was as white as snow, creamy and smooth. She dipped the tip of her finger lightly before gently rubbing the cream, which was as big as a bean, on her palm. Seeing the skin on her palm moist and glossy, sheughed, ¡°No doubt a good cosmetic, thank you!¡±


    However, all she saw was Shi Fengju in a daze as he looked at her hand. Sang Wan¡¯s face immediately felt hot and she put her hands down before giving a cough.


    Shi Fengju let out an ¡®ah!¡¯ as if waking up from a dream. Rubbing his chin, he smiled, ¡°Uh, good that you like it! Let¡¯s eat, let¡¯s eat!¡±


    Those slender hands, together with her creamy white skin made him subconsciously recall the herst night with her creamy white neckbone and jade-like neck which sent him in a daze.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze made her somewhat embarrassed, but as it was not her who started first, she was way moreposed than he was. Smiling, she kept the jade box away and ordered a servant to serve the food. All of a sudden, she asked, ¡°Why did you suddenly decide to give me a gift?¡±


    Shi Fengju dodged the question, ¡°Yesterday night, I was too impulsive and abrupt, but hadn¡¯t I apologized for it already?¡±


    Not asking would have been better! Sang Wan¡¯s face turned flush, ¡°I¡¯ll go bring out the rice!¡±


    Shi Fengju looked at her flee into the dining area and became a slightly shaken but he shook his head and gave a smile. After settling his heart down, he slowly entered the dining area. However, his heart could not help but feel particrly pleased.


    In a sh, it was almost the Double Fifth Festival and Wang Shi suddenly called for Sang Wan to head over.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart felt a little tensed and she quickly finished putting on her makeup before bringing along Nanny Li and Liu Ya with her.


    From the depths of her mind surfaced a scene which happened in her past life where her own sister-inw came up to the doorsteps to create a ruckus. The peace that Sang Wan had was once again disturbed.


    Hopefully, everything would no longer be the same!


    The festive gifts needed to be prepared for rtives and friends were done by Gu Fangzi. Sang Wan did not question it and Wang Shi said nothing about it.


    Wang Shi only asked for someone to bring the gift list meant for her parental house and had her take a look. It was a Qingzhou custom that for the first festival after a woman gets married, the members of her parental house woulde over as guests, and her husband¡¯s family would need to prepare a gift to reciprocate to their courtesy.


    Two jugs of realgar and cmus wine; four boxes of dumplings; tworge carp; two live chickens, ducks, and goose each; ten pounds of pork belly; two tins of tea leaves; a pair of valuable vase; two pouches; two rolls of brocade; and a gold neck essory for each child. Sang Wan received the list and read the above.


    ording to the Qingzhou customs, just preparing these would have been sufficient which the Sang family would prepare of a simr standard. However, in the list added two envelopes containing a hundred silver each.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face slightly changed as she stared at it without a word.


    Wang Shi at first did not take much notice of her change in expression but seeing so, sheughed, ¡°Oh yes, it must¡¯ve been hard on your brother and sister-inw since your family¡¯s condition isn¡¯t quite good as of now so I had someone specially include two envelopes of silvers! If that is not enough, tell me and I¡¯ll add more into them!¡±


    Wang Shi spoke like a day without rain; as if all was fine, but Sang Wan was doing her best to hold her expression back.


    At this point, Sang Wan was able to conclude that it was not Wang Shi who came out with the idea but was instigated by Gu Fangzi to have those envelopes added. To Wang Shi, she was doing a good deed; however, her actions were considered an insult in ordance with the customary rules.


    For a homing gift, the generosity of the husband¡¯s family is a representation of how much they valued the wife¡¯s family. However, it was not the same this time around.


    Sang Wan was clear of her own sister-inw¡¯s temperament. Her brother would definitely look at the gift with sadness for he would feel that he had let his own sister down, but her sister-inw would definitely be furious that the Shi family was looking down on them and that they had intended to ridicule them from the very start!


    Right before Sang Wan could open her mouth to speak, she heard Gu Fangziugh, ¡°Cousin Sang Wan, no need to feel uneasy, we aren¡¯t distant, are we not? That gift is my aunt¡¯s goodwill! Just look at how greatly Aunt Wang values Cousin Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°Keke, Fangzi¡¯s right, we¡¯re rtives!¡± Wang Shiughed and looked at Sang Wan before speaking again, ¡°It isn¡¯t easy for your older brother and sister-inw. When they¡¯re here, apany them and have a chat with them, will you? Oh, also have Fengju go with you.¡±


    Deep down, Sang Wan was angst but she forced a polite smile on her face. Biting the bullet, she carefully worded her speech, ¡°Sang Wan shall thank Mother for your goodwill on behalf of my older brother and sister-inw! Only that, like what Mother said, we¡¯re rtives, so there¡¯s no need for the envelopes. Otherwise, my older brother and sister-inw may not feelfortable. If I may¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Cousin Sang Wan, just listen to what you¡¯re saying!¡± Gu Fangziughed, ¡°Already, Aunt Wang said that she had done it out of goodwill. Your older brother and sister-inw would definitely see it as an elder doing good for them, so why would they not be at ease? Does Cousin Sang Wan think that Aunt Wang is trying to humiliate your brother and sister-inw? If that is how Cousin Sang Wan thinks, then it would have been a waste for Aunt Wang to put in so much thoughts into it!¡±


    Seeing Wang Shi¡¯s face change to an unexpected, Sang Wan quickly stood up and bowed, ¡°Sang Wan doesn¡¯t dare! Sang Wan definitely did not mean it that way! Mother, Sang Wan only felt that the gift is too much...¡±


    In the end, Nanny Li understood and smiled at a side, ¡°This old servant wishes to speak, but isn¡¯t sure if it is proper to do so!¡±


    Wang Shi would never argue with Nanny Li. Smiling, she requested, ¡°Old sister, please speak!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled and went on, ¡°Miss, forgive this old servant for being discourteous but this time around, you¡¯re in the wrong, Miss!¡±


    ¡°Oh? How am I wrong?¡± Wang Shi began to ponder.


    ¡°How are you not?¡± Nanny Li smiled to answer, ¡°Rtives would often exchange gifts which is a part and parcel of our custom. Miss truly is generous, but that may be met with others seeing the Shi family as a family who shows off their wealth and looks down on their rtives!¡±


    Wang Shi was taken aback and she immediately understood. The smile on her face vanished and she spoke, ¡°No doubt I¡¯m wrong! Remove that! Sang Wan, I wasn¡¯t thoughtful enough but I hope you won¡¯t put that to heart and be angry at me!¡±

 Chapter 41 (V2): Would You Listen? Even If It Were A Little Overboard

    <h4>Chapter 41 (V2): Would You Listen? Even If It Were A Little Overboard</h4>


    ¡°Sang Wan understands that Mother did it out of goodwill, so why would Sang Wan be angry towards Mother?¡± Sang Wan secretly heaved a sigh a relief.


    Gu Fangzi rolled her eyes secretly at Nanny Li but went on adding into the conversation with a smile, ¡°Now, in fact, I should be punished! I should have thought twice beforeing up with such an outrageous idea. I mean, your older brother and sister-inw aren¡¯t the kind of people who woulde up to us and seek for money, so how could I have done that? My good intention turned into a wrongdoing! Cousin Sang Wan, Fangzi seeks your forgiveness, so please don¡¯t me my aunt!¡±


    Sang Wan tightly clutched her hands and discreetly let her steam out in two breaths to maintain an indifferent smile as she spoke. Seeing that Sang Wan was not being oversensitive, only then did Wang Shi set her heart at rest.


    ¡°Oh yes, Shi Fengju will be escorting some goods over to the capital after the Double Fifth Festival. These few days, help him prepare his luggage, will you? Nothingpares to thefort at home, so everything necessary must be packed into his luggage before his trip!¡± Wang Shi spoke.


    Sang Wan was unsure whether she herself was d to be given the task or that because she was given an opportunity to anger Gu Fangzi, but she felt somewhat happy after hearing Wang Shi leaving the task to her. She stood up and gave a tender sweet smile of virtuousness, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mother. Sang Wan shall personally prepare Lord¡¯s luggage so that he¡¯ll feel thefort of home even when he¡¯s away on his trip!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Miss, you can most definitely put your heart at rest! Young Mistress is extremely considerate and careful! She has the young master¡¯s needs taken care of very well! Leaving it to her is right!¡± At a side, Nanny Li smiled and spoke. Deep inside, she was secretly ted.


    Seeing the two, master and servant, singing in coboration, Gu Fangzi¡¯s face eventually went red with anger. ¡°Just you wait!¡± Nibbling her lips slightly, her heart cursed softly as she coldly watched Wang Shi smile while giving them a nod.


    In Sihe Vige, the people in the Sang household were very busy preparing the gift to bring along when visiting the Shi household.


    Fang Shi even specially went out to the vige¡¯s tailor shop to have a new set of clothes made for her family. Even though the fabrics gifted by Sang Wan during the homing were excellent, but wearing clothes made from the fabrics gifted by the Shi family during the visit would bring embarrassment to Sang Wan if they were able to identify that the gifted fabrics were used to make the clothes, wouldn¡¯t it?


    Also, she bought a few t-sided silver loop hairpins which were simple and generous, clean and neat. Clearly, it showed the side of a literary family.


    Sang Quan and Sang Nuan were excited after hearing that they were going to visit their aunt in Qingzhou and had already been counting down to this very day with their little fingers. They did not know what her aunt¡¯s house looked like but they were excited to visit Qingzhou as it was a huge ce to them.


    On the fourth day of the fifth month, Li Shi, who had tailed Sang Hong¡¯s family and stopped, once again reappeared in front of the Sang family¡¯s doorstep. The moment she stepped inside, her eyes circled around the house before asking with a broad smile, ¡°My dearest daughter-inw, tomorrow¡¯s the Double Fifth Festival. How are the preparations of the gifts going for our Shi family¡¯s young master and young mistress?¡±


    Out of all the time in the world, Li Shi had to choose such a time toe. Fang Shi was well aware what she was here for, and her lips curved a little upwards. However, before she was able to respond, Li Shi had already snatched the chance. With a loudugh, she spoke, ¡°Hehe, Second Aunt was worried for nothing. It seems my oldest niece-inw is very capable and has already long prepared them! Ai, we¡¯re no longer young and capable or we would have helped you with the preparations too!¡±


    Fang Shi was determined to make her wish turn to dust. As such, she smiled, ¡°Just as what Second Aunt said, but what¡¯s more important than a gift is the thought! Our sister-inw is an understanding person, she won¡¯t ask for anythingvish! But Second Uncle and Second Aunt should still express yourselves; regardless what and regardless how much, Sister-inw Sang Wan would certainly be happy! It¡¯s the thoughts that count, no?¡±


    Li Shi was taken aback and cursed Fang Shi secretly for being shameless; to actually dare open her mouth to ask for something! Quickly, Li Shi gave her answer, ¡°At such a time, there¡¯s nothing we can prepare! Next time then, next time then!¡±


    Fang Shi pped and smiled, ¡°There¡¯s no need to specially prepare anything, ready-made gifts are also fine! I recall seeing tworge roosters in Second Aunt¡¯s house; just one should weigh about two to three kilograms!¡±


    ¡°That, that... one likes to roost and the other is vociferous; both are inappropriate to be given as gifts!¡± Li Shi squeaked before hurriedly asking, ¡°Ai, where are the things that you¡¯ve all prepared? Let me take a look at them quickly to see if they are appropriate! All of you are still young and insensible; our family will definitely be the joke of the people if the gifts you brought were unsuitable!¡± As Li Shi spoke, she was about to dive into a room to take a look.


    However, Fang Shi raised her brows and took a step forward, obstructing her. With a smile that seemed not like a smile, Fang Shi spoke, ¡°No need for Second Aunt to worry! The gift is done and everything that needs to be in there is in there! Although I may be young, but the principle behind ¡®courtesy calls for reciprocity¡¯ is not an unfamiliar term to me; unlike some bastards who openly asks to receive but never gives!¡±


    Li Shi felt uneasy and smiled embarrassedly. Forcing herself to remain upright, she asked, ¡°About that, what time will the departure be tomorrow? I think leaving earlier will be better since the route to Qingzhou is far! Is the vige¡¯s carriage hired?¡±


    Her words sounded to Fang Shi like their family would being along too. In that instant, Fang Shi became angry and spoke coldly, ¡°Leaving first thing in the morning tomorrow. There¡¯s a hired carriage to bring us there from home.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Li Shi responded after obtaining the information and finally returned home.


    Upon arriving home, Li Shi let her face hung and she let out a sigh before venting her frustration at Second Old Master Sang, ¡°You¡¯re too much, having me do the task when even you are unwilling to do so! Yet, you still dared to sit at home and wait for me to return while I was there with my face almost thrown on the ground!¡±


    Second Old Master Sang disregarded herint and rolled his eyes at her. How would he not be familiar with his wife¡¯s character? She was notining to him because of her wrinkled face that was almost thrown, but because she wanted to.


    ¡°Enough, enough. Less of the nonsense!¡± Second Old Master Sang wave of a hand broke the strings ofints and he asked, ¡°So how was it? Have they prepared everything? At what time will they be leaving tomorrow? Did they hire a carriage?¡±


    Li Shi contained her anger and passed all the information she heard to Second Old Master Sang. Furious, Second Old Master Sang grumbled, ¡°You did not get the chance to see what they¡¯ve prepared?¡±


    ¡°That has nothing to do with you anyway! What use will there be figuring out what they¡¯ve prepared?¡± Li Shi snapped, ¡°I was there looking at that person¡¯s cold face for a really long time. Don¡¯t get your hopes up, hmph, they may not even be willing to bring us along!¡±


    ¡°They dare?¡± Second Old Master Sang grunted, ¡°We¡¯re the elders, they wouldn¡¯t dare to leave without us! Just listen to what others would say about them if they did so!¡±


    Li Shi had wanted to add that it required those people to mind in the first ce, but recalling Sang Yufei who was still studying in the academy, she was sure that Sang Hong would definitely mind and thus kept her mouth shut.


    The thought of not having the need to have a son to be able to go to Qingzhou, the vigers would definitely look at them with jealousy; the thought of the household which they would be visiting belonged to the sole richest family in Qingzhou; the thought of them being rtives of the Shi family; her heart sizzled in bliss and the edge of her mouth could not help but rose. The frustration that she had after the meeting with Fang Shi immediately vanished.


    ¡°Ah,¡± Li Shi gently touched Second Old Master Sang by the elbow, ¡°That, can I have the gold hairpin and bracelet for a day? If I look impressive, you¡¯ll have a good image and our family will also have a good image, no?¡±


    Second Old Master Sang took a nce at her. A body with no figure, a face with no beauty, and a character that wascking; nothing more than just an ugly old hag. ring his nostrils, he muttered, ¡°No need! That kind of image isn¡¯t needed!¡± His reason being there was no way of getting them back.


    ¡°You scrooge!¡± Li Shi clenched her teeth and muttered, ¡°Those were mine!¡±


    ¡°Was your name written on it?¡± Second Old Master Sang snorted, ¡°Those were given to our family. I am the head of this family and their ownership is determined by me! Still, it isn¡¯t that I do not want to give them to you, but because I do not have them anymore.¡± Second Old Master Sang spread his palms in front of Li Shi, ¡°I sold them! I turned them all into banknotes!¡±


    Furious, Li Shi¡¯s lips quivered as she red at him dryly.


    Once Sang Hong returned home, Fang Shi went straight to telling him about the conversation she had with Li Shi not too long ago. She knew that Sang Hong disliked hearing her speak about the two elder¡¯s ill behavior, so she kept the story short and asked directly, ¡°So what do we do tomorrow? I do not approve having Second Uncle¡¯s familying along with us!¡±


    Having met with Sang Hong¡¯s hesitant face, Fang Shi went on, ¡°Finish listening to me first. Second Uncle and Second Aunt cannote! Although I may hate them for being petty and I¡¯m not letting them go because of that but...; don¡¯t stare at me but use your head to think! I¡¯m sure you are familiar with those two elderly¡¯s temper; if they were to make trouble in the Shi family, think of what would happen to Sang Wan in the future? I¡¯m genuinely thinking for you and for Sang Wan. If not, just do whatever you like; me being a person who married into this family has nothing to fear! But don¡¯t me me if anything goes wrong!¡±


    Fang Shi¡¯s eyes were red as she spoke. Putting her feelings into it, tears almost dropped from her eyes.


    Sang Hong gently gripped his wife¡¯s hand and spoke warmly, ¡°I know of your good intentions, and have never med you. Truly.¡±


    If she truly were a mean and narrow-minded immoral woman, could he still let her stay in the house?


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear!¡± Fang Shi¡¯s heart was filled with warmth and her tone turned gentle. However, feeling anxious, she asked, ¡°Then you tell me, what should we do?¡±


    Sang Hong crinkled his forehead and thought for a moment before getting up, ¡°I¡¯ll tell Second Uncle, that, that the carriage we hired isn¡¯trge enough...¡±


    Fang Shi giggled before pulling him back. She looked deep into his eyes and spoke, ¡°Will you believe me if I said that he would scold you for not hiring arger carriage when knowing that so many people were going?¡±


    Sang Hong scratched his head in distress. Indeed, with Second Uncle Sang¡¯s temper, he would certainly say that.


    ¡°Then what do you think we should do?¡± Sang Hong shrugged, ¡°We can¡¯t just leave sneakily!¡± Otherwise, Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Sang would definitely spread unpleasant words to the entire vige.


    ¡°You ah!¡± Fang Shi¡¯s tone was both witty and boastful, but thinking again, she could not help but cover her mouth as she chuckled lightly.


    Sang Hong could not help but smile and asked, ¡°It seems you¡¯ve an idea? Why don¡¯t you share it with me?¡±


    Fang Shi leaned her head to a side andughed, ¡°Idea? I definitely have one, however, it may be somewhat overboard! It¡¯s all up to you if you want to listen or not!¡±


    Just what was it? But after hearing the idea, his forehead creased again, ¡°That, this ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Fang Shi got up and spoke, ¡°Take your time to think! Meanwhile, I¡¯ll go wash the vegetables and cook with Nanny Xu! But let me remind you, you¡¯ve got to think for Sang Wan!¡±


    The very next day in the morning, as expected by Fang Shi, the two old couple and Sang Yan were dressed neatly, waiting for the departure. Of course, Sang Rou was not present for all she could do was nibble at her lips and watch the house with envy. The treatment she received was worst than Nanny Xu. Even though Nanny Xu was tasked to watch the house, she was given an additional fifteen copper.


    ¡°Second Uncle, Second Aunt, please get in the carriage!¡± Sang Hong smiled.


    Fang Shi reluctantly swept a nce at the clothes they were wearing; all were made from the fabrics given by Sang Wan during the homing. However, she kept quiet and the edge of her lips hooked in disdain.


    Li Shi heart felt please. Feeling arrogant for taking an undeserved gain for granted, she deliberately faked a smile and said, ¡°Aiyo, Ah Hong ah, I still think we should not; maybe we shouldn¡¯t go at all! Your wife¡¯s face doesn¡¯t look good, maybe she dislikes us tagging along!¡±

 Chapter 42 (V2): Unable to Attend

    <h4>Chapter 42 (V2): Unable to Attend</h4>


    ¡°So you know!¡± Fang Shi murmured, but loud enough for Li Shi to hear.


    ¡°Nevermind that! We¡¯re a family; Second Aunt, please don¡¯t say that!¡± Sang Hong quickly smiled and gave Fang Shi a warning look.


    ¡°From the looks of it, Second Aunt¡¯s face doesn¡¯t seem too well, is it because your body isn¡¯t feeling too well? If you can¡¯t go, there¡¯s no need to push yourself! I¡¯m sure our Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t me Second Aunt for it!¡± Fang Shi just acted as if she did not see Sang Hong¡¯s expression and purposely spoke.


    ¡°Enough, enough. Get into the carriage quickly! What are you lot chattering so much nonsense for?¡± Second Old Master Sang gave a cold re which was aimed either at his own wife or his niece-inw.


    Li Shi¡¯s words of course did not mean that she did not want to go, but was all to purposely annoy Fang Shi. Regardless whether Fang Shi opposed for them to tag along, she did not care! Besides, if Fang Shi did not oppose, then something was definitely wrong!


    ¡°Just thinking about visiting our Sang Wan today, I was so excited that I couldn¡¯t sleep the night before. Maybe that¡¯s why my face doesn¡¯t look too well. But no worries, I¡¯ll just take a quick napter on during the ride there! Ai, my niece-inw,e, help me a little, will you?¡±


    Fang Shi sneered and shifted her nce to Sang Yan who was only bothered admiring her own clothes instead of moving to help her mother.


    ¡°Ah Xian.¡± Sang Hong softly signalled.


    Only then did Fang Shi unwillingly walked up to give Li Shi a hand.


    Li Shi grinned from ear to ear and immediately seeked for the best seat before nting her bottom onto it. Comfortably, she let out a sigh, ¡°Ah Yan, what are you standing there for? Get in here now!¡±


    Sang Yan, who was admiring her clothes, went in together with Second Old Master Sang.


    ¡°Get up and sit here!¡± The spot where Li Shi sat caught Second Old Master Sang¡¯s eye and he pointed at the seat beside.


    Li Shi rolled her eyes and pouted to show her unwillingness to move her bottom, but in the end, it was for the best to let the seat to him.


    Sang Hong carried Sang Quan and Sang Nuan up into the carriage, and was about to help Fang Shi up, but his ears were greeted with Li Shi sharp voice from behind, ¡°Aiyo, what use is bringing such young kids for? Don¡¯t go, don¡¯t go, there won¡¯t be enough space for us all!¡±


    Second Old Master Sang frowned and scolded, ¡°The two of you are so careless! These kids are still immature; if something were to happen there, it¡¯ll ruin our Sang¡¯s reputation! Isn¡¯t Nanny Xu at home? Quickly, carry them down, carry them down!¡±


    Sang Quan and Sang Nuan were looking forward to this day for a very long time. But hearing their second grand uncle and auntie telling them not to go, the edges of their lips sunk and they cried.


    Furious, Fang Shi immediately jumped into the carriage and pulled her two children towards her before speaking, ¡°Our Sang Wan said before that she wants to see our Xiao Quan and Xiao Nuan so I¡¯ll definitely be bringing them along! When we reach auntie¡¯s house, remember to listen to your father and I; and be on your best behavior. Understood?¡±


    Sang Quan and Sang Nuan quickly nodded their head and spoke in unison, ¡°We¡¯ll listen to Mother! We¡¯ll listen to Father!¡±


    ¡°Ah Xian and I will take care of them. Nothing bad will happen there, Second Uncle and Second Aunt, please do not worry! It¡¯s about time we leave, let us depart!¡± Sang Hong got into the carriage and spoke.


    Second Old Master Sang red his nostrils and grunted, ¡°Up to you! If things turn ugly, don¡¯t me me for not warning the two of you!¡± Leaning back, the old man shut his eyes.


    Fang Shi¡¯s heart was fuming with anger but she contained it inside. Giving aforting nod, the coachman got onto the carriage.


    Returning a response, the coachman whisk his whip and whistled before the sound of the horseshoe trotting on the ground could be heard. As the wheels of the carriage rolled, it shook and soon travelled a distance.


    Sang Rou came out from her house and her eyes full of resentment followed the carriage until it was out of sight. Spitting on the ground, she turned and went back into the house. ¡°Peng!¡± The main door was vigorously closed.


    ¡°There¡¯s still a long way to go, why don¡¯t we fill our stomach with something first?¡± Upon arriving at the town, most of the shops had already opened and the streets gradually bustled with people. The warm aroma of the food from the various stalls slowly began to float in the air.


    Now, towards Sang Hong¡¯s suggestion, Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi were without a doubt extremely eager.


    Second Old Master Sang got off the carriage and stretched his back before rubbing his hands together. Looking all around him, he pointed his finger out to the most decent looking restaurant in his view and said, ¡°I think we should all go there and grab a bite!¡±


    But before Fang Shi could say anything, Sang Hong quickly nodded and smiled, ¡°Alright, then we¡¯ll all have it there!¡± Once said, he pulled Fang Shi, and together with his son and daughter, along and followed his second uncle¡¯s family from behind.


    Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi did not hold back from Sang Hong¡¯s generosity, ordering arge bowl of beef noodles, several steamed pork dumplings and deep-fried glutinous rice, and some deep-fried shortbread. Next, they went overboard with their orders by ordering a te of sliced goose and duck meat, a te of shredded goat tripe, a te of crispy small river fish, a te of crisp bamboo shoots, and several other small vegetable side dishes.


    The sight immediately made Fang Shi¡¯s heart in distressed and she whispered softly, ¡°This breakfast might even be as expensive as hiring the carriage!¡±


    Li Shi grinned as she stuffed herself with food, ¡°This is nothing! Nothing as good as what¡¯ll be served at our Sang Wan¡¯s house! My dear nephew and niece-inw, no need to feel bad!¡± With that, she turned to Sang Yan and urged, ¡°Eat more, we¡¯ll only reach your sister¡¯s housete in the afternoon!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll distribute the soup!¡± Fang Shi took a glimpse at her and said nothing more.


    ¡°Put more chopped green onions and sesame seeds into mine!¡± Li Shi jerked her head and said. The soup and the seasonings in the restaurant were all free.


    After their stomach were satisfied, the group returned into the carriage.


    But no more than half an hour went by and Second Old Master Sang suddenly frowned and intuitively covered his tummy. His face turned ash white and he shouted when he could endure no longer. ¡°Stop the carriage! Stop the carriage! I can¡¯t hold it any longer, I need to go relief myself first!¡±


    ¡°Oh, my dear, your face doesn¡¯t look too good!¡± Li Shi was a little shocked.


    ¡°Did you stuff yourself too much?¡± Worried, Sang Yan spoke quickly.


    ¡°Rubbish!¡± Second Old Master Sang red at his daughter. Stuffed too much? Her words sounded as if he had never eaten anything good before and spoiled his stomach upon feasting them.


    However, his heart actually suspected a little that that might have been the case.


    Second Old Master Sang hurriedly jumped off the carriage and flew straight into the dense forest. A momentter, he was seen dragging himself back. Weakly, he climbed aboard the carriage and waved, ¡°Move along!¡±


    Less than two minutester, Second Old Master Sang¡¯s face turned strange again and he shouted for the carriage to stop before he speedily ran into a nearby bush.


    In less than an hour¡¯s time, Second Old Master Sang had intermittently made four trips. His face was pale and his legs felt heavy; there was no energy left for him to even open his mouth to speak. It wasn¡¯t just his face that looked unpleasant, his new clothes were stained with patches of mud and debris here and there, and parts of his robe stabbed by barbs from the bushes; his appearance was unpleasant as well.


    ¡°Second Uncle, are you alright?¡± Sang Hong asked worriedly.


    ¡°No more! I can¡¯t take it anymore!¡± Second Old Master Sang looked down at his own unpleasant appearance and shook his head, ¡°I¡¯ll not follow anymore, I¡¯ll not follow anymore!¡± It wasn¡¯t just his appearance that did not permit him to go, but also his physical condition. His face would be thrown if he entered someone else¡¯s home in such a state. A dignified person like him could not afford to embarrass himself in front of others.


    ¡°Then, then what do we do? Should we send you back to town first? Then maybe you can hire another carriage to send yourself back?¡± Li Shi¡¯s face immediately took a change; a bad feeling was itching on her skin.


    ¡°We¡¯ve already been dyed enough. If we return and head out again, the sky will definitely be dark by then! If our Shi rtives be angry saying how our Sang family is impudent, then¡ª¡ª¡± Fang Shi said deliberately.


    The two old couple cared not whether Sang Wan was angry, but if their nephew-inw and his mother were to have any poor impressions of them, then the seriousness was on another level altogether as they had hoped to have the Shi family help introduce their daughter to a well-to-do family.


    ¡°The rest of you, go! Go!¡± Second Old Master Sang stared at Li Shi and ordered, ¡°You, get down! I see a residential area down at the east, we¡¯ll go there and rest. When you all return, remember to fetch us! What are you staring nkly at for? Come down now!¡±


    Second Old Master Sang roared and red at his wife.


    ¡°Coming! Coming!¡± Li Shi hurriedly got off the carriage.


    ¡°I¡¯ll not go too, I¡¯ll not go too!¡± Heavily dependent on Li Shi, Sang Yan had received lots of her parents¡¯ affection and less of their scoldings. For someone like her who did not know how to stand up for herself, her temperament was thus very weak and dared not imagine what it would be like leaving from her mother¡¯s side. Not to mention that her mother and Fang Shi were never on the right terms and she was never close to Sang Wan to begin with.


    ¡°You uselessss, you want to see the death of me? Go, why are you not going with them?¡± Li Shi ground her teeth and a burst of anger erupted from her tummy. With that sudden burst of anger, she stomped forward and forcefully pushed her finger on Sang Yan¡¯s forehead several times while cursing without an end.


    In front of everyone who did not climb down the carriage, she cried and whined as she refused to go along.


    ¡°I think Ah Yan should apany you too. We¡¯ve to take care of our two children and might not have enough hands to take care of her too.¡± In a difficult position, Sang Hong suggested.


    That was what Sang Yan was afraid of. For a country girl like her who did not have a backbone, her cousin may find her irksome and not like her. If she followed along, she¡¯ll just be a joke over there!


    ¡°Father! I want to stay and take care of Father!¡± Sang Yan rushed over and clutched Second Old Master Sang¡¯s arm before looking into his eyes in hopes of him letting her stay.


    ¡°Enough, enough! Just let her stay, let her stay!¡± Second Old Master Sang¡¯s legs trembled as his stomach began acting up again. The pain was so unbearable that all he wanted to do was quickly find a ce to lie down and restfortably before asking someone to bring a doctor over. Other than that, what else would be more important?


    There was no other choice and all Li Shi could do was give Sang Yan a re and scold her a few more times before turning back to Sang Hong and giving a sigh, ¡°Oh, but what about our lunchter, and the fees for a doctor to see to my dear husband? We were in a hurry when leaving the house and didn¡¯t bring any money with us!¡±


    Sang Hong generously fished out two silvers and handed it over to Li Shi with a smile, ¡°Second Aunt, I¡¯ll let you have this money to use first.¡±


    Li Shi quickly received them and stroke them before sighing again, ¡°Although they¡¯re not much, but it¡¯ll all be over soon! Ai, let¡¯s not chat anymore, you all have to hurry there! Remember to help greet our nephew-inw and his mother, and our niece for us too!¡±


    Li Shi took a nce at the carriage and let out a third sigh. Giving a selfforting thought to herself to remind her that there was always a next time as the Shi family would not run away. Heng, the Shi family would definitely not close their doors and reject them as their rtives!


    With such a thought, Li Shi¡¯s mood turned slightly better. But when the thought of her not being able to take a good look inside the Shi household surfaced in her mind, her anger once again returned and she secretly rolled her eyes and cursed a few times at Second Old Master Sang.


    Inside the carriage, Fang Shi could not help but celebrate their victory.


    ¡°Nothing will happen to Second Uncle, right?¡± Sang Hong was a little worried and he asked.


    ¡°Rx! Nothing will happen to him.¡± Fang Shiughed. The dose was very light; Second Old Master Sang just had to lie down for a while and he would be fine.


    Sang Hong sighed helplessly. If not for him worrying about leaving a poor impression to the Shi family on their first visit, he would never have agreed.

 Chapter 43 (V2): Makeup, Whether Light or Heavy, Makes Her Even More Beautiful

    <h4>Chapter 43 (V2): Makeup, Whether Light or Heavy, Makes Her Even More Beautiful</h4>


    At Ning Garden, Sang Wan began dressing herself up after breakfast.


    Today was the day her oldest brother and sister-inw would being over for the first time to greet their rtives. For a special day like this, she would have to put in double the effort to her looks.


    Especially since her mother-inw Wang Shi looked heavily upon physical looks and after that incident with Mistress Zhuang.


    As such, Sang Wan went out of her way to dress herself up as luxurious and beautiful as she could.


    Begonia red branch patterns embroidered on the cor of the outer coat; gold silk threads criss-crossed at the sides of the sleeves; a skirt with folds on the end, colored in scarlet red like the color of a lotus flower which symbolizes good fortune; and a pair of satin-made boat shoes with bright red soft sole. Her ck hair was bundled together on the top of her head and secured with a gold hairpin which had gold threads on its end that had small rubies hanging from it before being decorated with other essories.


    Her figure was slim and perfect, with a delicate waist and slender neck; her skin, white and exquisite; her cheeks, patted with rouge; her lips, moist and tender; the hair around the temples folded above her brows, and her eyes like the stars. In addition to her graceful and elegant hand gestures, and her gentle temperament, her appearance would definitely attract the admiration from others.


    ¡°Young Mistress, you look stunning!¡± Zhide and the rest had never seen Sang Wan all dressed up and could not help but look at her with glistening eyes filled with amazement.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that so! The blissful life that Young Mistress leads and the good temperament that Young Mistress has are all outstanding regardless whether Young Mistress her dresses up or not!¡± Nanny Li grinned and praised.


    Sang Wan bashfully smiled. Even she herself was taken by astonishment when she took a look at her own reflection in front of a mirror. She could almost not believe that the elegant and luxurious reflection in the mirror was actually herself!


    After touching up her make-up a little, she brought Nanny Li and a few others with her to greet with Wang Shi. On the route there, the servants who saw her quickly stopped in their tasks to greet her with eyes thick with amazement.


    After seeing Sang Wan, Wang Shi¡¯s jaw dropped and was stunned for a moment. Blinking a few times, she pped her hands excitedly and smiled, ¡°Well done, well done! This is then our Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw! Come quickly, take a seat!¡± before turning to the rest of the members present and asked, ¡°What do the rest of you say, which family¡¯s daughter-inw in Qingzhou is the most outstanding? Even those high officials¡¯ wives will never be able to outdo this!¡±


    The people naturally joined in to give their praise to Sang Wan with a smile. Their behavior was not forced against their will and thus, the praise was soothing to the ear.


    Wang Shi was secretly satisfied and the thought of Mistress Zhuang subconsciously drifted by her mind. Next time, she was sure to bring her daughter-inw along with her to meet that Mistress Zhuang and see if there was anything she could say! Let¡¯s just see whether she could joke about the son of the Shi family marrying to the daughter of a family in shambles! Hmph, if they have the ability, then they should give it a try too and see if anyone would want to marry into their family!


    Sang Wan became a little embarrassed by Wang Shi¡¯s her eyes that could not conceal her emotions, and her huge praise. Gradually and gracefully, she sat down at a side and smiled, ¡°Your daughter-inw does not know much about dressing up and has specificallye to seek for Mother¡¯s opinion. If Mother is unsatisfied, please teach your daughter-inw how to do so!¡±


    ¡°Very good, very good! When you meet with guests in the future, remember to dress up like this!¡± The more Wang Shi looked at her, the more she liked, ¡°If I were to teach you, it¡¯d be just like that!¡±


    Sang Wan heaved a sigh of relief and smiled, ¡°Hearing Mother say so eases my heart!¡±


    Seeing Sang Wan anxious for her opinion, Wang Shi became delighted and smiled proudly.


    Exactly at that moment, Gu Fangzi came in. With just a look, an uncontroble amount of jealousy gradually rose in her but she kept her eyes bright and held onto Sang Wan¡¯s hands affectionately. ¡°At first nce, I thought a Mistress from another rich family hade to visit us! The way Cousin Sang Wan dressed ispletely different from how usual, truly beautiful! Aunt Wang, don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! That was what I said just now too!¡± Wang Shiughed.


    ¡°If only Mistress Zhuang was here to see, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll definitely be turned speechless!¡± Gu Fangzi truly was one who understands Wang Shi well. Her words immediately spoke what was in Wang Shi¡¯s heart.


    Wang Shiughed even more joyously. That Zhuang family¡¯s mistress who doesn¡¯t even have a daughter-inw, what does she even have that the Shi family doesn¡¯t?


    Gu Fangzi blinked and added on, ¡°But it truly was unfortunate that Cousin Sang Wan wasn¡¯t dressed up properly thest time! Although Mistress Zhuang isn¡¯t a close part of our family unlike Cousin Sang Wan¡¯s older brother and sister-inw, but she is still considered a close friend to our Shi family!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s heart was slightly shakened a little which affected the smile on her face. She could not help but be slightly suspicious of Sang Wan: To dress herself up so perfectly when her older brother and sister-inw are visiting, but why was her attire so casual when it came to a guest of the Shi family? Even if it were Xiao Que¡¯er¡¯s fault, meeting a guest is just as important, is it not? Doesn¡¯t she know this? Or could it be intentional?


    Sang Wan cursed to herself but quickly got up and apologized to Wang Shi, ¡°Mother, your daughter-inw has learned from her previous mistake and has kept that lesson deep in her heart to never do it again! As for thest time¡ª¡ª your daughter-inw did not know the severity! Mother, your daughter-inwes from a small household and thus does not know regtions. If mother is unsatisfied with your daughter-inw¡¯s actions or wishes for something, please instruct your daughter-inw!¡±


    Hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words of self-pity, Wang Shi¡¯s heart once again turned soft and quickly gestured to someone with her hand to help Sang Wan back to her seat. Smiling, Wang Shi spoke, ¡°You¡¯re a good person, Mother¡¯s heart is clear about that! Enough, enough, there¡¯s no need for that! Rest assured, it doesn¡¯t matter if you don¡¯t understand or know something; so long if you¡¯ve got the heart, Mother is willing to teach you anything!¡±


    Sang Wan then gave her thanks joyfully, ¡°Mother, thank you!¡±


    ¡°Ai, we¡¯re a family! There¡¯s no need to be so polite!¡± Wang Shi smiled before asking, ¡°Oh yes, your older brother and sister-inw; when will they be arriving?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was looking forward to their arrival and she shook her head beforeughing, ¡°Your daughter-inw thinks they won¡¯t be arriving anytime soon! There¡¯s still a long while more to wait!¡±


    ¡°I heard that the journey isn¡¯t short, then we shall all await their arrival! You may go back and wait. When they¡¯re here, just go to the Second Gate to wee them. On a second thought, why don¡¯t Fengju be the one to do so?¡± Wang Shi asked before turning to Gu Fangzi to have it arranged.


    Gu Fangziughed and gave her confirmation. Wang Shi nodded before letting the two go on separately.


    When Sang Wan returned to Ning Garden, she sat on a couch and waited. It was almost noon and she reckoned that her older brother and sister-inw should be arriving soon in no more than half an hour¡¯s time.


    Just when she was thinking whether to have someone call for Shi Fengju, he was already here, ¡°Big Brother and his family isn¡¯t here ¡ª¡ªyet?¡±


    Looking straight, a well dressed Sang Wan filled his eyes. His eyes glistened and his heart almost skipped two beats. Words could not leave his mouth as the woman in front of him was incredibly beautiful to an extent that no words could urately describe her.


    He knew that his wife was gentle in temperament, elegant, and had the looks. But never had he thought that her being well dressed would make her even more beautiful..., and enchanting.


    In his head, a line from a literary work floated in his head: Beautiful, even without makeup.


    Those words may be simple, but there really is only a small number of women in this world who can truly look beautiful even without make-up; and stunning when make-up is put on.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid they may need a while more! I was thinking of having someone call for you, but here you are!¡± Sang Wan slowly got up before walking towards Shi Fengju with a smile.


    The closer she was to him, the faster his heart started beating. His body turned stiff and his mouth became dry. In some sort of panic, he avoided eye contact with Sang Wan before squeaking, ¡°Then, then we¡¯ll wait, we¡¯ll wait a while more!¡±


    Dressed up sovishly and beautiful, a fine and delicate waist, and her movement which brought a touch of fragrance that lingered in his nose; Shi Fengju suddenly had an impulse of wanting to rush up to her and give her a tight hug.


    Sang Wan simply approached him and ushered him by his arm to take a seat before personally serving him a cup of tea that was carried on a tray by a maidservant. Giving a soft smile, she nodded, ¡°En, let¡¯s wait.¡±


    In front of Nanny Li, Sang Wan had always served him well, and so, Shi Fengju was ustomed to it. But today, he felt that something was wrong; her gentle breathing, her fragrance, her sweet smile, her jade porcin-like skin, and that slender neck and tender hair. All those stimted his sensed and struck into his heart.


    Sang Wan felt a little embarrassed from his stare, but in front of the maidservants, there was nothing she could do. She acted as if his stare was not on her and bashfully retracted her hands back.


    While feasting his eyes on a beauty, hisck of attention resulted in his grip on the cup to loosen. ¡°Aiya,¡± he eximed; the tea had sshed all over his blue tunic, making a wet stain on the front.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Sang Wan panicked.


    ¡°Were you scalded?¡± Shi Fengju asked at the same time.


    Sang Wan became startled, ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m fine.¡± This person¡¯s head must have turned silly! The cup wasn¡¯t sshed in my direction, how would I get scald?


    Zhide, Hong Ye, and the rest of the maidservants could not help but giggle at their young master¡¯s absent-mindedness. Seeing so, Nanny Li ragged, ¡°What are you servants doing? Quickly bring the young master to have a change of clothes!¡±


    Zhide quickly kept her smile and invited Shi Fengju inside to change his clothes.


    ¡°If you aren¡¯t scalded, then that¡¯s good!¡± Shi Fengju gave a smile and went inside.


    Once he left, Sang Wan realized that the edge of the maidservants¡¯ lips were all hooked to a side with some mild intention as if wanting tough. Her face immediately turned red.


    ¡°What are each of you here standing around for? Don¡¯t you have work to do? The two of you, go out and see if the Sang family are here!¡± Nanny Li scolded.


    The maidservants coaxed a little before scattering like birds and animals.


    Now, the only remaining people were Nanny Li and Sang Wan. Nanny Li gave a smile at Sang Wan and spoke softly, ¡°Young Mistress, in the future, you should dress a little more like this. Just look at Young Master, his eyes were all on you just now! It seems Young Master truly likes it!¡±


    ¡°Nanny!¡± Sang Wan blushed even redder.


    ¡°Young Mistress, what¡¯s there to be embarrassed about? It¡¯s normal between husband and wife!¡± Looking at her delicate face, Nanny Li earnestly advised, ¡°Just listen to this old servant. You shouldn¡¯t just sit at a side; if Young Master likes it, dress up a little more often and gain his favor! Otherwise, that shameful rat outside may barge in!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face was hot and she lowered her head.


    Nanny Li smiled, ¡°This old servant only said so for your sake! Although with your character, no one would dare touch the position to be the next Young Mistress, but what use is there to protecting a wealthy position when there is no love between the husband and wife?¡±


    Sang Wan finally looked up and nibbled her bright red lips a little before giving her thanks gratefully, ¡°Nanny, thank you!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be polite to this old servant!¡± Nanny Li waved her hand, ¡°This old servant just wishes to see Young Master¡¯s son being born into this world!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback by the sudden subject and her heart could not help but feel somewhat uneasy.


    Shi Fengju returned after a change of clothes. Nanny Li then gave a wink before retreating together with Zhide to provide a beautiful atmosphere for the young couple. But Sang Wan was feeling awkward at the moment for Nanny Li¡¯s goodwill had made her speechless.


    If they really were a couple, then the atmosphere would have been great, but they were not.


    Shi Fengju had already taken the time to calm his emotions. But after seeing his beautiful wife once again, he was still unable to hold back the appreciation and admiration he had for her.

 Chapter 44 (V2): Door to Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 44 (V2): Door to Humiliation</h4>


    She really was a good woman, in fact, it was not just her appearance.


    ¡°The way you¡¯re dressed up, you look really good.¡± Shi Fengju smiled andplimented.


    Sang Wan slightly looked up to see his expression on his face, no doubt it was like a light breeze under the clear moon, and her heart became somewhat disappointed. She wasn¡¯t even a flower vase or a drawing! She thought quietly to herself.


    But the way he was looking at her made her feel that way.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Sang Wan spoke inly.


    ¡°You, don¡¯t get angry because of it; I didn¡¯t have any other meanings behind that! I¡¯m truly speaking from the bottom of my heart,¡± Shi Fengju sensed that she was slightly unhappy and felt that it was because of his abruptness and quickly added, ¡°Yes yes, it was a praise, a praise!¡±


    A wave of malice swept over Sang Wan and she spoke to him angrily, ¡°More than your cousin?¡±


    Shi Fengju was suddenly taken aback and was slightly confused as to what she meant.


    Sang Wan immediately felt regretful for those words as they sounded much like jealousy andughed to break the atmosphere, ¡°I think my oldest brother and sister-inw should be arriving anytime soon. Sorry to trouble Lord to entertain them on their arrival!¡±


    ¡°No need to say that, we¡¯re a family!¡± Shi Fengju cited all of a sudden. Family? Shi Fengju was surprised by his own choice of words. Thinking that in a year or so, a family would soon be strangers, there was a strange feeling in his heart.


    Looking up at Sang Wan, he saw that her head essory near a side of her temple was slightly tilted and he moved closer to her before reaching his hand out.


    ¡°You¡ª¡ªwhat are you doing?¡± Sang Wan¡¯s body stiffened. She should have avoided his hand and shun to a side, however, she was unsure why she did not but instead remained seated without making any movements; maybe just her lower jaw moving a little.


    ¡°Your head ornament is a little nted.¡± Shi Fengju said while gently helping her raise it a little.


    The two were very close; so close that they could feel each other¡¯s breathing. Their breathing went by turns as if they could hear each other¡¯s heart beating.


    The faint fragrance gradually traveled into Shi Fengju¡¯s nose and he became lost in thought. His eyes drooped a little to look at the slightly spread lips that were cute. It was radiating a soft glow of attractiveness which reyed the scene of the surprisingly good kiss during the ident which they had. Shi Fengju could not help but force a lump down his throat.


    Suddenly, his mind thought of Gu Fangzi which took him by surprise and he quickly backed away to his seat. Giving a light cough, he got up and smiled, ¡°I¡ª¡ªI¡¯ll go and check if they¡¯re here!¡± With that, he left hurriedly.


    Just what was wrong with him!


    Sang Wan might have sensed it herself as her eyes suddenly dimmed a little. She could not help but raised her hands to feel her cheeks which were burning hot.


    In a rush for time, Sang Hong and his family arrived at Qingzhou City in a carriage a little past afternoon.


    Looking out from the carriage, there were shops everywhere with shouts to promote their goods and the city was bustling with people as they squeezed their way forward.


    ¡°Qingzhou truly is a huge city. What a lively ce this is!¡± Fang Shi could not help butment before letting her two children gaze out from the carriage window.


    ¡°Of course! This ce is a passage between the north and the south where merchants gather here and cross flow of goods are conducted here. It¡¯d be amazing if this ce isn¡¯t bustling with people!¡± Sang Hong followed andmented too.


    ¡°Master Sang, where should we head to?¡± Parking itself at a secluded corner, the coachman turned and asked.


    ¡°Oh, to the Shi household.¡± Sang Hong quickly answered.


    ¡°The Shi household? Which Shi household?¡± The coachman spoke a little impatiently. There were countless number of people under the sky surnamed Shi, so how could they answer with just that? The Sang family seemed sensible enough to not have responded so foolishly!


    However, that was not the case because Sang Hong felt that since the Shi family had such a huge influence in Qingzhou, telling the coachman just that would have been enough. Before hiring the carriage, he had already understood that the coachman ran his business between the town and Qingzhou and thus concluded that he should be extremely familiar with the city.


    But because of howmonly the family was dressed, the coachman had never thought that the Shi family they were actually visiting was the Shi family famed to be the richest in Qingzhou.


    As such, Sang Hong conveniently responded, ¡°That is the richest Shi family in Qingzhou, the one located somewhere around the Qingxi Avenue...¡±


    ¡°You want to go to the house of the Shi family¡¯s household, the one richest in Qingzhou?¡± The coachman¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Sang Hong nodded embarrassedly with a smile.


    ¡°Oh, I understand then!¡± The coachman nodded. They might be rtives of one of the Shi household¡¯s servants, and so the carriage continued on its route without a word.


    The coachman drove the carriage away from the bustling area and turned into a quiet path which led to the Qingxi Avenue. Upon reaching the end, the carriage took another turn and followed the pebbled ground before arriving in front of a towering gate where on each side, left and right, sat two stone lions. The carriage halted and Sang Hong, together with Fang Shi, carried the children and the gifts down.


    Looking at the broad gate and the mighty lions at the sides, the forest of pagoda trees, and the tworge eaves doors with carvings; the sight in itself revealed an infinite amount of wealth. The doors were wide opened which exposed a giant marble carving surrounded by luxuriant trees and flowers. With a hand holding onto their children, the Sang family took their steps through the gate.


    ¡°The Shi family truly is the richest in Qingzhou. Just look at all these around us! No joke at all! That gate there, it may even be bigger than our house!¡± Fang Shi could not help but pulled on her skirt as she whispered softly.


    That usual boldness and straightforwardness, upon seeing the wealth of the Shi family, was immediately kept within her and she became somewhat timid.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Hong also gave a sigh. He could not help but think, with such a huge difference between the Sang and Shi family, how would Ah Wan¡¯s life here be like; and also how was she usually treated like in here? Others imed that the Sang family was trying to climb a branch higher than they could reach and would look at them with envy, but had anyone ever thought of the difficulties his younger sister had to face?


    Sang Hong arranged his clothes neatly and gave a nce at Fang Shi before instructing his two children to hold each other¡¯s hands while he and Fang Shi carried the gifts. With that, they proceeded forward.


    ¡°Little brother, sorry to trouble you¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Hong held his hands together and bowed as he asked politely.


    However, before he could finish, the person interrupted, ¡°Are you here to visit a rtive?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°I got it! I got it! Please follow me!¡± The person waved his hand and gestured the family in.


    ¡°Hey, that¡ª¡ª¡± Fang Shi found it a little odd and asked, ¡°You¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Please go in quickly! If you¡¯ve anything to say, please do it inside!¡± The person did not let Fang Shi finish and urged them in impatiently.


    ¡°Alright, alright, we¡¯ll talk when we¡¯re inside!¡± Sang Hong signalled to his wife to stop and enter first.


    Fang Shi rolled her eyes at the person before following in.


    The person¡¯s back was bent a little as he guided Sang Hong and his family, and they walked for a long while. Upon arriving at a secluded hall, he finally spoke, ¡°Please, wait around here! I¡¯ll go and inform someone. This is part of the regtions here, so please wait for me here and do not go looking around on your own; if something were to be knocked off when it should not have, then things would be more troublesome! Today is the Double Fifth Festival, so there were arge number of rtives and friendsing and going!¡±


    Once the person finished, he vanished like the smoke.


    ¡°Hey, do you know who we are before you go about informing someone? Who are you going to notify! You, hey!¡± However, Fang Shi was toote when she shouted.


    ¡°Forget it, we¡¯ll just wait here!¡± Sang Hong spoke helplessly.


    ¡°Just what is going on with them? Just what do the Shi family think they¡¯re doing? Ah? What is the meaning of this! Is this how they treat their guests? If they truly look down so much on our Sang family, then they shouldn¡¯t have weed our Sang Wan into their family!¡± Fang Shi scolded. Seeing her two children ying around the chairs and tables curiously, her face sunk and sighed as she settled the two down.


    ¡°Fengju isn¡¯t someone like that; don¡¯t jump to conclusions! If someone were to hear, it will definitely throw Sang Wan¡¯s face away!¡± Sang Hong urged at his wife.


    Hearing that, Fang Shi became even more furious and cursed, ¡°Now what¡¯s the matter with our Sang Wang? She should have known that we¡¯ll being today, so how could she not have someone more sensible to invite us in? Or does she also hate her Sang family now?¡±


    ¡°There you go again! Why would our Sang Wan ever do that? What¡¯s more, the Shi family still has an elder around, so it won¡¯te down to our Sang Wan to manage the house. Do you really have that little faith in her?¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Fang Shi sneered, ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t have faith! But don¡¯t tell me you can¡¯t sense it! Just look at that servant just now, his face and expression! Hmph!¡±


    Sang Hong sighed to himself but gave a gentleugh, ¡°Enough, don¡¯t be angry anymore! The same type of rice can feed all sorts of people; for a huge household like this, they¡¯re bound to have a few wicked servants. We¡¯re here to see Sang Wan, not here to bicker with them! Let¡¯s just wait for a while longer, a while longer. If Sang Wan waited for too long and still does not see us, she¡¯ll definitely send someone to look for us.¡±


    Fang Shi sneered, ¡°Fine, then I¡¯ll wait! But let¡¯s see how long we¡¯ve to wait in this ce!¡±


    Fang Shi was fuming with anger. If not for her knowing Sang Wan¡¯s character and having a good impression of Shi Fengju after the first meeting, her anger might have already broken out of the container.


    Fang Shi¡¯s face gradually became darker and darker, and the fumes gathering in her stomach churned; ready to erupt anytime soon.


    The two siblings, Sang Quan and Sang Nuan, were feeling hungry and their stomach was growling loudly, but they did not dare to provoke their mother who was not looking very well. The two stuck themselves into Sang Hong¡¯s arms, crying that they were hungry but there was nothing he could do but coax them softly.


    Sang Wan reckoned that they would be arriving soon and had already brought Nanny Li, Liu Ya, and the rest to wait at the Second Gate. But after a long while, there was no sight of them. And so, she sent for someone to seek for them, but there was still no news of their whereabouts.


    After a while, Shi Fengju came in again and spoke, ¡°I¡¯ve sent someone to the entrance of thene to keep a lookout. Rx, when they arrive, we¡¯ll surely know. Don¡¯t worry anymore, why don¡¯t you return first?¡±


    Sang Wan was slightly anxious and shook her head, ¡°I¡¯ll wait right here! I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be arriving anytime soon!¡±


    After two quarters of an hour, there was still no sign of them. And so, Zhide sent for someone toy a brocade mat in the Jade Flower Hall that was not too far away and requested for Sang Wan to rest over there as she waited.


    ¡°Did something happen to my oldest brother and sister-inw while on the route here?¡± Sang Wan had someone call Shi Fengju over and she voiced her worry.


    Shi Fengju then sent Zhan Huan to ride on a horse out of the city to take a look beforeforting Sang Wan, ¡°Don¡¯t worry! The route from Yangliu Town to the city here will always have peopleing and going. If something did happen to them, there¡¯ll definitely be news about it!¡± He decided not to leave and stay in the Jade Flower Hall to apany her.


    There, they waited anxiously. However, what they did not know was that at wherever Fang Shi was, she had already eaten an explosive medicine and was ready to explode anytime soon!


    ¡°Oh my, you must all have been waiting for long. Come,e,e, stuff yourselves with some food first! How pitiful! Whose servant¡¯s rtive do you all belong to? It truly is insensible to have thrown the lot of you here for so long!¡± A woman wearing red clothes made from coarse cloth carried a tray in and spoke with sympathy.


    On the tray had two pastries which released an aroma into the air.


    The two sibling¡¯s eyes immediately lit up as the aroma slowly drifted into their nose. Their two small faces showed a hungry expression and they cheered as they ran towards the woman. ¡°It smells so good! It smells so good!¡±

 Chapter 46 (V2): What Need Is There To Stay And Receive Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 46 (V2): What Need Is There To Stay And Receive Humiliation</h4>


    ¡°Keke! Ai, quickly, have some! Take it and eat! This brother and his wife, please have some too! It¡¯s not good to wait on an empty stomach!¡± The woman grinned and said.


    ¡°Stop! Come back!¡± Fang Shi was so furious that her whole body was trembling coldly. In a swift action, she forcefully pulled Sang Quan and his younger sister before ring at the woman. Raising a hand, she wanted to flip the tray over!


    ¡°What an outrageous¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ah Xian!¡± Sang Hong was also frustrated, but he kept his calm and quickly halted Fang Shi¡¯s hand that was in the air, ¡°Ah Xian!¡±


    Fang Shi nibbled her lips bitterly and her eyes were flushed red. Looking at him silently, she had truly wanted to voice her grievance.


    The Shi family were too much! This was a humiliation! An utter humiliation!


    ¡°Aiyo! Why is this woman so fierce ah! This olddy was doing some good; if you don¡¯t wish to ept it, then don¡¯t. There¡¯s no need to climb all over my face! Hmph! If you don¡¯t want then don¡¯t, I¡¯ll just feed these to the dogs!¡± The woman rolled her eyes at Fang Shi before turning and left with a face full of despise.


    Seeing the food fly in and then out of their grasp, the two children gaped and cried out loud.


    ¡°No crying!¡± Fang Shi fiercely red at them and broke her hand off from Sang Hong before catching up with the woman. Blocking her path, she spoke coldly, ¡°Where does your young mistress stay? How do we get there?¡±


    ¡°You, who do you think you are? What business do you have with our young mistress? Our young mistress is a noblewoman, not anyone can just see her!¡± The woman spoke as she looked at Fang Shi in disdain.


    ¡°Bring me to her!¡± Fang Shi grabbed the woman¡¯s cor. With her eyes full of anger and coldness, shemanded, ¡°Bring me there! Now!¡±


    ¡°Stop, stop! You, you, why are you so fierce? We¡¯ll go, we¡¯ll go! You, you¡¯ve got to let go of me first!¡± The woman became startled and immediately lightened up her attitude.


    ¡°Ah Xian! Stop creating a ruckus!¡± After coaxing the two children, Sang Hong caught up in a hurry and pulled Fang Shi to him before speaking politely to the woman, ¡°I¡¯ll apologize in her stead for being rude! Please ept this apology!¡±


    The woman took a glimpse at Sang Hong and smiled, ¡°Least you know some manners. Too bad you¡¯re married to a witch! You are looking for Young Mistress ¡ª¡ª for what reason?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. Please carry on!¡± Sang Hong shook his head.


    ¡°Oh, like I said, our young mistress isn¡¯t someone who¡¯d casually meet anyone! That person there should at the very least know her position!¡± The woman nagged as she left.


    ¡°What did you say!¡± Fang Shi was clouded with anger and wanted to catch up with the woman. However, she was held back desperately by Sang Hong.


    ¡°Unbelievable! Unbelievable! The Shi family is too insincere! To bite the hand that feeds, Sang Wan that damnss! You don¡¯t allow me to create a ruckus? Fine, we¡¯ll all go home! We¡¯ll go home and all will be fine!¡±


    ¡°Ah Xian...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me!¡± Fang Shi held her tears back in her eyes and shook her shoulders gently. In that instant, she lifted her head and spoke with a nasal sound, ¡°I¡¯ve had enough! If others don¡¯t wish to wee us, why should we purposely send ourselves to their doorstep to receive humiliation? Don¡¯t tell me anything about whether there may be some sort of mimunication or not! Without a master¡¯s order, do you think the servants will dare to do this? If you wish to stay, then stay, I¡¯ll go!¡±


    Fang Shi huffed and puffed and pulled her children each by a hand. Giving her surrounding ast nce to keep the distasteful scene in her memory, she chose a direction before leaving.


    ¡°Ah Xian! Ah Xian!¡± Sang Hong had no way of stopping his angry wife. Letting out a gentle sigh, his heart dismissed her behavior as leaving here to speak outside was not a bad idea! As such, he went to grab the things and followed behind.


    The Shi household was huge with numerous houses, nts, and winding paths which led to secluded areas of the household. Without anyone to guide them, leaving this ce would not be an easy task.


    Fang Shi was now inclined to disliking the members of the Shi household. On her path forward, she refused to ask anyone whom she ran into and coldly roamed around with her two children. Deep down, she did not believe that she could not leave without any help.


    ¡°Aiyo, isn¡¯t that, Young Mistress¡¯s brother and sister-inw!¡± Zhan Huan suddenly eximed and ran forward hurriedly.


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi still continued forward as they turned a deaf ear to Zhan Huan¡¯s call. It was not intentional, but they did not think that Zhan Huan was actually calling for them.


    ¡°Young Master Sang, Young Master Sang¡¯s wife!¡± Zhan Huan ran up to them and smiled as he panted heavily, ¡°You, why are you here?¡±


    Fang Shi stared straight at him and sneered, ¡°You¡¯re right, we shouldn¡¯t even be here!¡±


    The smile on Zhan Huan¡¯s face stiffened and he suddenly felt as if something was amiss. But having followed Shi Fengju for a long time, he was clever. He knew that something unpleasant must have happened but was in no position to ask. As such, he acted confused and carried on wearing the smile on his face as he spoke, ¡°That isn¡¯t the case! Young Master and Young Mistress have been waiting for you for a long time but there was no sight of you. Young Mistress is very anxious and thought that something might have happened to you while on the way here. As such, Young Master let this servant ride a horse out of the city to inquire. But because this servant was not able to inquire much about whether there was any ident on the road, this servant was hurrying to report back to Young Master and Young Mistress! It truly is a coincidence to have ran into Young Master Sang and his wife! The two of you, please, Young Master and Young Mistress are waiting anxiously for you!¡± Zhan Huan spoke and quickly ordered someone to report back to Sang Wan and Shi Fengju in his stead before he went to carry the things from Sang Hong¡¯s hands, ¡°Let this servant do it!¡±


    ¡°Is your Young Master and Young Mistress really waiting for us?¡± Fang Shi spoke in disbelief and she stared suspiciously at Zhan Huan.


    ¡°Oh, just as you¡¯ve said!¡± Zhan Huan smiled. The meaning behind was obvious because who doesn¡¯t know that the Sang¡¯s family would being over to greet the Shi family!


    ¡°Enough, Ah Xian, let¡¯s not keep Ah Wan and her husband waiting. Let¡¯s go!¡± Sang Hong had met Zhan Huan before and thus ce his trust in him. He believed that his younger sister would not disregard her family and what had happened before was nothing but just some misunderstanding. No wonder! After all, the Shi family¡¯s business is huge. Surely, they would have lots of friends and rtivesing over to a point where the servants ended up making a mistake.


    Sang Hong was used to thinking positively, but Fang Shi was not the same. Especially after the humiliation which she had suffered just then, there was no way it could bepletely eliminated after Zhan Huan¡¯s words.


    She only snorted coldly and spoke, ¡°If they¡¯re truly waiting for us, then have theme wee us personally! We¡¯ll be waiting here! Ai, if they aren¡¯t here in fifteen minutes, we¡¯ll leave first! There¡¯s still things to be done at home!¡±


    Zhan Huan was stunned and the smile on his face was already very forced, ¡°That, that¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ah Xian!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t pull me! You¡¯re called Zhan Huan right? Aren¡¯t you going to call for your young master and young mistress? Remember, in fifteen minutes!¡± Fang Shi red at Sang Hong and said.


    ¡°Ai, this servant will go! Hurry will go now!¡± Zhan Huan hurriedly nodded and sped away as fast as he could.


    Seeing that it was already past noon and there were still no news of her brother and sister-inw, Sang Wan could not help but recall what had happened in her past life and her heart pounded anxiously. Trying to hold her grief back, her tears almost fell from her eyes. Seeing as such, Shi Fengju quickly added some words offort.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress! Young Master Sang and his wife are here. Zhan Huan will be leading them over!¡± Someone had finallye to report.


    ¡°Really!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s eyes lit up and she lifted herself up.


    She had always been elegant and graceful, and never had Shi Fengju seen her neglect that character. Shi Fengju could not help but smile, ¡°No need to worry now that they¡¯re already here! I¡¯ll go out to wee them; take your time!¡±


    ¡°Okay! Thank you, Lord!¡± Sang Wan nodded a few times and smiled brightly like a blooming flower.


    And so, Shi Fengju ran out and was met with Zhan Huan who was reporting back with Fang Shi¡¯s words. Zhan Huan felt that it was necessary to mention what had happened, and told of the situation to Shi Fengju. Shi Fengju immediately stopped in his tracks and his brows rose a little, ¡°Go and check on what had happened. You weren¡¯t impolite to them, right?¡±


    ¡°This servant wouldn¡¯t dare!¡± Zhan Huan immediately straightened himself and hastily replied.


    Shi Fengju nodded, ¡°Go then, lead the way!¡±


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi saw Shi Fengju hurrying over and their hearts were finally put at ease.


    After Zhan Huan¡¯s words, Fang Shi¡¯s mood was a lot calmer than before. With addition to Sang Hong¡¯s persuasion and Shi Fengju arriving on time with a smile on his face as he greeted them, ¡°Brother, sister-inw¡±, Fang Shi did not expose any ill emotions. While Sang Hong and Shi Fengju spoke of the weather, she held onto her two children and led them from behind.


    ¡°I really am sorry, to have caused some slight inconvenience to Big Brother and sister-inw! Pleasee with me! Sang Wan is waiting at the Second Gate!¡± Shi Fengju gestured to lead them.


    ¡°You¡¯re too polite! We¡¯re a family, there¡¯s no need to be so polite!¡± Sang Hong cupped a fist in his palm.


    After entering through the Second Gate, Sang Wan immediately spotted them and smiled pleasantly as she walked up to them. Bending her knees a little, she curtsied. ¡°Big Brother, Sister-inw! You¡¯re finally here!¡± She greeted before wrapping her arm around Fang Shi¡¯s arm with a face full of joy.


    Fang Shi¡¯s heart softened and she smiled before calling for Sang Quan and Sang Nuan to go up and greet their aunt. The two siblings were well-behaved and greeted together. Sang Nuan lifted her little face up and spoke in admiration, ¡°Auntie, you¡¯re so beautiful!¡±


    Those around could not help butughed. Sang Wan leaned forward affectionately and pinched the little face before smiling, ¡°Our Xiao Nuan has also grown up to be more beautiful!¡±


    The group returned to Ning Garden and the maidservants brought in some water to give them a refreshing wash. Sang Wan then asked Shi Fengju, ¡°Should we head over to where Mother is? My oldest brother and sister-inw have yet to meet her!¡±


    Shi Fengju looked at the time andughed, ¡°Big Brother and sister-inw must have rushed over and are hungry now. Why don¡¯t we have a meal first! I¡¯m afraid Mother may be taking her afternoon nap, and meeting her at night shouldn¡¯t be toote!¡±


    Sang Wan then instructed Nanny Li to head out to inform Nanny Jiang about the Sang family¡¯s arrival. Nanny Li epted and left.


    Ning Garden then had someone to bring and serve the food.


    Sang Quan and his sister were not of age yet and thus did not sit by the table. Sang Wan asked for a clean te and set aside some dishes, and had Liu Ya bring the children, along with the te, to a temporary partitioned area to have their meal. Once done, the four sat separately as guests and hosts.


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi were indeed hungry and did not put the suggestion off. However, Fang Shi was concerned for the two children, worried that they might cause trouble, and so she whispered to Sang Wan, telling her that she would go and take a look at the children.


    Sang Wan smiled and went with her.


    By the table were left with Shi Fengju and Sang Hong. With just a look from his eyes, the maidservants withdrew and he gave two soft coughs before asking, ¡°Was the road to here smooth?¡±


    ¡°Quite alright.¡± Sang Hong was startled but gave a nod.


    Shi Fengju smiled and hesitated for a moment before asking, ¡°I heard from Zhan Huan that he ran into you and sister-inw when you were already in the household. Did something happen? Big Brother, please don¡¯t take this seriously, I don¡¯t have any other meaning, just that I was afraid that the servants may have been unruly and angered Big Brother and Sister-inw. No need to hold back, Big Brother, please tell me!¡±


    Sang Hong shook his head and dismissed it lightly, ¡°Brother Fengju, you¡¯re thinking too much! There¡¯s no such thing, truly, nothing happened! Keke, we¡¯re fine, what could have went wrong!¡±

 Chapter 47 (V2): An Inside Information

    <h4>Chapter 47 (V2): An Inside Information</h4>


    Whether there was or not, Shi Fengju was somewhat well aware. But he did not think that Sang Hong would put such a matter to rest. He could not help but develop respect towards him. Raising a wide bowl he praised, ¡°It¡¯s good that there isn¡¯t! It¡¯s good that there isn¡¯t! There¡¯re always good and bad mixed among the servants so there may inevitably be some who¡¯ll act unruly! But Big Brother is open-minded which is very admirable! I offer this toast to Big Brother, please!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t deserve your praise!¡± Sang Hong raised his bowl and touched it with Shi Fengju¡¯s bowl before gulping the wine down. ¡°Actually, so long as Sang Wan¡¯s living fine, then everything else does not matter! I know that Brother Fengju is a reliable person so I¡¯ll not say much! But Sang Wan is veryisant and will keep many things in her heart. I hope not to trouble Brother Fengju, but please take good care of her!¡± Sang Hong eximed.


    ¡°Hehe, I will, I will!¡± Shi Fengju subconsciously dodged the gaze that was aimed at him and quickly covered it with augh.


    At the area that was partitioned temporarily, Sang Quan and Sang Nuan were truly hungry. Combined with the unfamiliar environment they were in, they ate quietly and well-behaved. Fang Shi went over to take a look at them and her mind was at ease.


    Sang Wan helped her sister-inw as they sat down to have tea and converse.


    ¡°Sister Fang, did something happen? Why were you and Big Brother sote?¡± Just like Shi Fengju, Sang Wan also asked.


    Fang Shi¡¯s face immediately revealed a little of the anger that was contained inside her. But recalling Sang Hong¡¯s words, she shook her head andughed, ¡°Nothing! What could have happened? There was just some dy on the way, that¡¯s all!¡±


    ¡°Nothing really?¡± Her expression did not escape Sang Wan¡¯s eyes and Sang Wan sighed, ¡°Sister Fang, are you treating me like an outsider that should not know?¡±


    Fang Shi was taken aback for a moment. After much thought, she bluntly spoke, ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to say, but I¡¯ll just tell you the truth. Your brother was afraid that you might get angry so he forbade me to say! But I think that telling you will serve as a reminder and take more notice in the future!¡± Fang Shi then spoke of what had happened from the beginning when they entered the household and added, ¡°If not for running into Zhan Huan, your brother and I would have already left Qingzhou!¡±


    Fang Shi¡¯s face turned slightly pale and she thought silently to herself. If they had left, Sang Wan¡¯s face would definitely be thrown!


    ¡°Sang Wan, you won¡¯t be angry at your sister-inw, right? I didn¡¯t want to do that on purpose. It was all just too ¡ª¡ªjust too humiliating!¡± Fang Shi was feeling extremely aggrieved. Either they were the ones to feel it, or their younger sister would. In short, there would definitely be one party to be humiliated! This itself made her choke with anger.


    Liu Ya, whose ears had stretched all the way to their conversation, cried out, ¡°Young Mistress, no need for second guesses. It¡¯s definitely Miss Gu who¡¯s behind all this! She¡¯s the one managing the household, who else other than her will have the power to instruct those below to do such unjust acts!¡±


    Sang Wan did not stop sipping her tea as she watched Fang Shi¡¯s face turn icy cold. Filled with uncertainty, Fang Shi asked, ¡°Miss Gu? Who¡¯s this Miss Gu? Why is she not getting along well with you? And why is the household managed by her?¡±


    Sang Wan onlyughed, ¡°This Miss Gu is my mother-inw¡¯s niece. She has always been by my mother-inw¡¯s side since young and the household has always been managed by her for quite some time. Maybe, maybe she felt that me entering this household is a treat to her so she isn¡¯t quite friendly towards me. But this truly was too undisciplined of her!¡± Turning to Liu Ya, she scolded, ¡°You, why did you spout such nonsense unnecessarily? Without basis, how can you say that!¡±


    ¡°Is that really the case?¡± Skeptical, Fang Shi asked, but even after gaining Sang Wan¡¯s affirmation, she still remained angry and scolded, ¡°Even so, this is still pushing it too far! Even if she were your mother-inw¡¯s niece, she¡¯s still a rtive! Now that you¡¯ve entered the family, this household should be managed by you now, but why is it still by her! Sang Wan, does your mother-inw dislike you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s head felt heavy but forced a gentle smile, ¡°My mother-inw is a good person and treats me well; really! Aiya Sister Fang. I¡¯m already married so there¡¯s no need for you and brother to keep worrying about me; even I know how to take care of myself! Really! Sister Fang and Big Brother have suffered much grievance today!¡±


    Fang Shi grumbled a little, ¡°Not just grievance! There¡¯s also hatred; all the way to the core! But us suffering from grievance isn¡¯t much, at most we¡¯ll juste here as little as possible, but that¡¯s not the case for you! If you were to suffer from any, as the days go by, how long will you be able to endure? Let¡¯s not talk about others, but your mother-inw, she¡¯s your mother-inw. If she orders you to wear shoes smaller than your size, there¡¯s nothing you can do until...until she¡¯s satisfied?¡±


    ¡°My mother-inw¡¯s really good. Later when Sister Fang meets her, you¡¯ll understand!¡± Sang Wan vowed jokingly, ¡°Sister Fang has always had a fierce temperament and will never tolerate sand in your eyes! So I¡¯ve actually found it a little strange why Sister Fang did not make a scene even after how unruly the servants were?¡±


    Fang Shi giggled before ring at Sang Wan, ¡°What? Because I didn¡¯t make a scene, you feel disappointed? You really aren¡¯t afraid of beingughed at! But it¡¯s not because I didn¡¯t want to. If not for your older brother persuading me not to and the good impression I had of your husband regardless of how bad the Shi family were, I would have already made a scene! Hmph, those snobs, I would really want to give them a scene!¡±


    Sang Wan was a lot more afraid than angry after hearing those words. If a scene really did stir up, her mother-inw would certainly be angry and she would definitely be aughing stock in the household. Big Brother and Sister Fang, it must really be hard for both of you.


    ¡°Sister Fang, I¡¯m sorry! Because of my uselessness, it has caused you and Big Brother to be aggrieved!¡± Sang Wan rose from her seat and bowed solemnly at Fang Shi.


    ¡°Ai, don¡¯t be like that!¡± Fang Shi quickly got up and held her firmly. Seeing that her eyes were moist, Fang Shi¡¯s heart ached a little and she patted her hand gently before speaking gently, ¡°It¡¯s not you to be med! Ai, in such a huge household, it must have been quite difficult for you too! Enough, enough, don¡¯t be like that, ah!¡±


    ¡°En! Sister Fang!¡± Sang Wan exposed a smile, and deep down, she vowed to herself that she would avenge her sister-inw and Big Brother one day!


    ¡°Keke!¡± Fang Shi carefully observed Sang Wan¡¯s appearance and praised, ¡°No wonder people say that fine feathers make fine birds. Just look at our Sang Wan, properly dressed. Very, very¡ª¡ª beautiful! Very beautiful! One look and I can tell you¡¯re a fine woman from a rich family! Liu Ya, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Of course! Who wouldn¡¯t boast about our Young Mistress¡¯s good looks!¡± Liu Ya smiled arrogantly.


    Fang Shi suddenly sighed and shook her head before speaking with a grim face, ¡°I still think, that Miss Gu or whatever, you¡¯d better deal with her quickly! Ai like you said, she¡¯s just a rtive, so how could she not be clear about her position! Is this a household even for her to manage?¡±


    Sang Wan secretly rubbed her forehead. Her sister-inw, as always, was as persistent as ever! To make her divert her attention was as difficult as ascending the heavens!


    ¡°I will. Sister Fang, don¡¯t worry about it!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face suddenly turned red and she quickly lowered her head, ¡°My mother-inw said to let my cousin-inw manage the household a little longer for the time being to let me, uh, expand the Shi family tree...¡±


    Fang Shi was stunned for a moment but pped and smiled, ¡°Not bad, not bad! I was also thinking the same! The Shi family¡¯s Old Mistress truly is thoughtful. That being said, Sang Wan, you¡¯ve got to work harder. Everything else does not matter; once you¡¯ve a son of your own, everything will start to fall in ce!¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed like a fully cooked shrimp.


    On the other side, Shi Fengju and Sang Hong were already done with the formalities between guest and host. As such, Sang Wan and Fang Shi went in to join them for tea.


    Fang Shi nced outside at the sky before signalling Sang Hong with a wink.


    Sang Hong could onlyugh, ¡°Well, I¡¯m not sure, but may I know when we can meet with our inw?¡±


    Shi Fengju cited with augh, ¡°No need to hurry. Big Brother, Sister-inw, have some rest here first! It must have been very tiring since the journey to here is long.¡±


    ¡°If possible, we would like to pay our visit to our inw soon! The day isn¡¯t young anymore and we have to hurry hometer on!¡± Fang Shi quickly added.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes met with Sang Wan and he smiled, ¡°There¡¯s no need for the hurry, right? Big Brother, Sister-inw, why don¡¯t you stay for the night and leave tomorrow? I¡¯m afraid if you leave today, the sky would have turned dark before you reach home!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sister-inw, stay a little longer to chat with me more!¡± Sang Wan begged.


    Fang Shi¡¯s impression of the Shi family was not all that great. Even though she was not willing to stay, and Sang Hong was reluctant to add trouble to his younger sister, but after Shi Fengju and Sang Wan¡¯s repeated persuasion, they could only agree reluctantly in the end.


    After sitting idly for a while, Shi Fengju then invited Sang Hong to his study room to resume their conversation they had before. Sang Wan then stayed to converse more intimately with Fang Shi but ordered Liu Ya to y with Sang Quan and Sang Nuan first, and the other maidservants to ready the guest room.


    Once Sang Wan learned that Wang Shi had woken up, Sang Wan then called for a servant to inform the men in the study room. Shi Fengju then guided Sang Hong, Fang Shi, his nephew, and his niece to pay Wang Shi a visit.


    Nanny Li, through Nanny Jiang, had already exined the necessary details to Wang Shi. Revealing only the details that the Sang family were dyed on the road. Wang Shi was not all that understanding, but she did not me them and asked with a few words of concern. Upon seeing Sang Hong, who was gentle and calm, Fang Shi, who was decisive, and the two children, who although timid were also cute at the same time, Wang Shi was secretly satisfied and nodded. A literary family, no doubt different from ordinary people!


    Seeing how Wang Shi was so hospitable and kind towards them, other than the asional disy of splendor and the disy of wealth just from her clothes, she was no different from an ordinary old woman. As such, they were at ease and felt that Sang Wan would not be mistreated.


    The next day after breakfast, the couple went home along with their children. Shi Fengju had intended to send them off with the Shi family¡¯s carriage, but Sang Hong refused insistently saying bluntly that it would cause too much trouble and that it would be easier for them to hire a carriage on their own. Shi Fengju had no choice but to give up and instructed Zhan Huan to hire a carriage in their stead before seeing them off personally.


    ¡°The Shi family isn¡¯t all too bad actually, although wealthy, they aren¡¯t overly conceited!¡± In the carriage, Fang Shi grinned and said.


    Sang Hong thenughed, ¡°In what way? Didn¡¯t I say that yesterday was just a misunderstanding? Luckily, I held you back or you would have made a scene that could cause Sang Wan her future!¡±


    Fang Shi was a little embarrassed after hearing so but was reluctant to admit, ¡°You can¡¯t really say it¡¯s my fault, right? That dog-eyed servant who looks down on others! She¡¯s even lower than us, so what¡¯s there for her to be so frivolous about!¡±


    Sang Hong sighed, ¡°A hand has long and short fingers. For such a huge household, there¡¯s sure to be hundreds of people so who can ensure that all will be good? If something like that sort of incident happens again, don¡¯t act so rashly!¡±


    ¡°Oh yes!¡± Fang Shi suddenly remembered and said, ¡°That servant, Liu Ya, told me that the incident yesterday wasrgely Gu Fangzi¡¯s doing. She¡¯s the one who manages the household from the inside! I think the situation there isn¡¯t all too good!¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya?¡± Sang Hong frowned, ¡°How did Liu Ya know? Did you tell Sang Wan? Didn¡¯t I tell you not to speak of it to Sang Wan? Why didn¡¯t you listen!¡±


    Fang Shi was taken aback but quickly offered an exnation, ¡°Why can¡¯t I say? Just think about it, if Gu Fangzi truly did have the intention to make things difficult for Sang Wan, at least Sang Wan will be well-informed. Otherwise, she might fall into that woman¡¯s schemes yet still be kept in the dark!¡±

 Chapter 48 (V2): Second Uncle and Second Aunt’s Rage

    <h4>Chapter 48 (V2): Second Uncle and Second Aunt¡¯s Rage</h4>


    Sang Hong was at a loss for words but eximed after a moment, ¡°What you said does make sense! But this is the Shi family¡¯s problem, us getting involved may not be good for Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°It isn¡¯t because I like to get myself involved, alright!¡± Fang Shi sneered, ¡°It¡¯s nothing but a reminder for Sang Wan only! Let me ask you, if the Shi family were to bully our Sang Wan in the future, will you care or not care?¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯ll care!¡± Sang Hong¡¯s face turned hard as steel as he went on, ¡°She¡¯s my younger sister! Still, Brother-inw Fengju¡¯s not too bad of a person, he¡¯ll definitely not let her suffer!¡±


    Fang Shi sneered again and spoke sadly, ¡°That¡¯s difficult to say!¡±


    Sang Hong could not help but stare at her strangely, ¡°I say, why does your words sound so ambiguous? Is there something you¡¯re not telling me?¡±


    ¡°Not for now! And maybe not in the future too!¡± Fang Shi rolled her eyes at him.


    A woman¡¯s intuition is very sensitive, and what¡¯s more, Fang Shi was not foolish. Recalling the words from Liu Ya and Sang Wanst night, and what she could gather from yesterday¡¯s dinner table about Gu Fangzi, even though she could not inquire from the Shi family¡¯s maidservants, Fang Shi¡¯s heart nevertheless had some faint suspicions. Only, Sang Wan refused to tell her and that she could not pursue the matter since she was her sister-inw and not her mother! Moreover, the Shi family did not do anything over the line so she was not foolish enough to let out the secret which may cause others to push the boat along with the current.


    ¡°Ai, ¡± Sang Hong could not help butugh, ¡°Why do you have to sound so mysterious! Why? Have you been learning meditation?¡±


    Fang Shi snorted and red at him, ¡°I have, so what?¡±


    Sang Hongughed and shook his head, ignoring her.


    ¡°You just keepughing! Later when we meet up with Second Aunt and Second Uncle, I¡¯ll see how you can keep that up!¡± Fang Shi casually said.


    Sure enough, Sang Hong¡¯s face stiffened immediately and he started stroking his forehead.


    Besides, Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi were left waiting anxiously in the dark for Sang Hong and Fang Shi who did not arrive. The two could not help but be furious and could not stop cursing the young couple for not having any conscience and having a bad heart for they were sure that those two must have abandoned the family of three here.


    Reluctantly, they had to spend the night on a farm.


    The next day when the sun first rose, the two, along with Sang Yan, eagerly left. They were in a hurry to return home to scold Sang Hong and Fang Shi, and also see how much of the gifts were brought back and whether any was swallowed away from them greedily.


    Reasoning with each other, the two hitched a ride on an ox cart as it wobbled back in the direction of the town. The thought of having to use her own money for the travel fee, her heart ached and she once again wished to scold Sang Hong and Fang Shi more severely.


    And because of that, when Sang Hong and Fang Shi called for the carriage to be pulled to a side for it to pick those people up, they were told that those three had already left. The two gazed at each other and smiled bitterly; certain that the old couple had misunderstood.


    The ox cart wobbled slowly. Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi were anxious to a point where they would rather walk than remain in the cart. When they were soon to arrive at Yangliu Town, the carriage, which Sang Hong and his family were in, finally caught up with them. Sang Hong immediately stopped the carriage before waving and calling out, ¡°Second Uncle! Second Aunt!¡±


    Stunned, Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi had their eyes wide open.


    ¡°Why ¨C why are all of you here!¡± Li Shi grunted and jumped off the cart before rushing madly at Sang Hong with a finger pointed straight at him.


    ¡°Outrageous!¡± Second Old Master Sang caught up and sneered, ¡°You all sure took your time and made us wait!¡±


    ¡°I know right! If you were to spend the night, why not send a carriage to pick us up!¡± Li Shi red.


    Sang Hong could not say that the original n was to deliberately abandon them, so all he could do was force augh and say some soothing words.


    ¡°If I may ask, Second Uncle and Second Aunt, have you all had lunch yet? Are your tummies hungry?¡± Fang Shi asked with a smile.


    At this moment, Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi suddenly felt the hunger rising up to their head and they could not help but swallow a mouthful of saliva in unison.


    ¡°You still have the cheek to ask!¡± Second Old Master Sang grunted, ¡°We haven¡¯t even had breakfast, all because of you all! Quickly, we¡¯ll eat in town before going back!¡±


    Second Old Master Sang folded his sleeves before climbing into the carriage. Li Shi pushed Sang Yan in before going in herself.


    Second Old Master Sang, with anger rolling in his stomach, entered the town¡¯s best restaurant and ordered arge table¡¯s worth of good food before feeling much better.


    After eating and drinking well, the old couple¡¯s anger disappeared almostpletely.


    Li Shi then asked a waiter to pack the remaining dishes into a bag before her face finally revealed a smile.


    After raising enough of their spirit, the two kept asking about what had happened in the Shi family while on the way back. Once they arrived, the two kept staring at the gifts as Sang Hong and Fang Shi took out the gifts they had received from the Shi family.


    ¡°Just all these?¡± Second Old Master Sang and Li Shi could not believe their eyes.


    ¡°The list¡¯s here.¡± Fang Shi spoke no more and bluntly handed the list in the red envelope over.


    Second Old Master Sang received it miserably before opening it up topare. Seeing that was no difference, he became a little disappointed and asked, ¡°Then, is there any extra silvers from Sang Wan?¡±


    Only gold and silver was Second Old Master Sang interested in.


    ¡°ording to the custom, shouldn¡¯t this be all? The Shi family¡¯s money doesn¡¯t belong to our Sang Wan, and there¡¯s no way for our Sang Wan to have given us any.¡± Fang Shi stated inly.


    Second Old Master Sang grunted but declined toment. The two old couple were still somewhat dubious but there was no way of searching Sang Hong and Fang Shi¡¯s body.


    Li Shi nced at Sang Nuan and Sang Quan, and her heart wondered when would be a good opportunity to open their lips. Children are much easier to pry. Hmph, it¡¯s not because she wanted to do so, but otherwise, they might be taken advantage of!


    ¡°Erm, you all got to go to the Shi family while we didn¡¯t. So it¡¯s reasonable to say that these items are ours! But, we¡¯re not so unreasonable, so how about this: we¡¯ll take everything else other than these four boxes of stuffed rice dumplings!¡± As Li Shi spoke, she tucked the brocades in her armpits, a pouch hooked to her arm, a tea tin pressed in her arm, a hand holding two chicken, and the other holding two fish before pouting at Second Old Master Sang, ¡°Dear, go carry those wine! I mean, the man of the house here doesn¡¯t drink wine, right?¡±


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi looked at each other nkly. Fang Shi¡¯s face exposed a slight change eventually but Sang Hong quickly tugged her a little before giving a light nod andughed, ¡°Second Uncle, Second Aunt, take all that you want, just take them!¡±


    ¡°Ai, that¡¯s what I¡¯d like to hear!¡± Li Shi spoke in satisfaction. In total, the two took two trips back and forth to carry the gifts away.


    On the second trip, Li Shi nced at the four boxes of rice dumplings and said casually, ¡°I wonder how the Shi family¡¯s dumplings taste like, I¡¯ll take one!¡± As she said, she tore the seal and picked out eight, ¡°I won¡¯t take much, just two for each of us.¡±


    Fang Shi just stood and sneered withoutment.


    Seeing that Fang Shi had no objection, Li Shi could not help but regret not taking a few more. However, after some hesitation, she did not dare to reach out for more and left with a smile.


    Sang Rou was secretly happy after hearing that her parents and younger sister did not manage to go to Qingzhou. Her mouth hung a faint smile as she watched her parents move the gifts into the house.


    Watching the pair of greedy eyes, Li Shi¡¯s anger gradually sipped from her heart and she cursed at Sang Rou, ¡°See, see, see, see what see! Your father¡¯s stomach still isn¡¯t feeling well, yet here you are still standing there and not boiling some tea leaves for your father when you¡¯ve got nothing to do at home! Go and boil some tea leaves, still see what see! I¡¯ve raised you in vain!¡±


    Second Old Master Sang began to reflect on yesterday. His youngest daughter would rather stay with him and take care of him than go to Qingzhou, she even went as far as getting scolded by her mother and crying. Butpared to his eldest daughter whose sight was only at the goods, he could not help but make aparison. For not caring for her own father, his face turned cold and he eximed, ¡°What are you standing there for! Go and do it now!¡±


    Sang Rou nibbled her lips and gave a shrug before stomping off.


    ¡°Oh, would you look at that. Just say a few words to her and she bes angry already! Her temper must¡¯ve grown with her age! Maybe two years in the future, she might even start to argue with me!¡± Li Shi spoke with an odd tone.


    ¡°Hmph! No matter what, she¡¯s still my daughter! But regardless, if she dares to throw her temper, I¡¯ll be sure to break her legs!¡± Second Old Master Sang spoke with a darkened face.


    Furious, Sang Rou¡¯s body trembled as she hunted for breath. Her lips cursed silently as she went to light up the stove. Resting the kettle on the mes, she scooped some water and poured it in before spitting a mouthful of saliva inside. ¡°Peng¡±, she closed the lid tightly and cursed under her breath, ¡°Drink, drink, drink! I wish all of you would drink until you die!¡±


    Shi Fengju found Gu Fangzi and asked calmly, ¡°Yesterday¡¯s incident, you were the one, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°What incident?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s smile immediately copsed.


    ¡°The one when the Sang family came to pay their visit. Why did you instruct the servants to bring them to the waiting room meant for the servants? Why did no one report to me of their arrival?¡±


    Gu Fangzi sneered, ¡°Is Big Cousin here to seek out the culprit? If not for Cousin Sang Wan, I¡¯m sure Big Cousin will not even think ofing to me, right?¡±


    ¡°Was it you who did it?¡±


    ¡°Nope!¡± Gu Fangzi whirred, ¡°Who said it was me? Was it Cousin Sang Wan? Just what did she say in front of you again? Evidence before words, if she¡¯s skillful enough, have here face me in a confrontation instead! What use is there to talk behind other people¡¯s back!¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s expression sunk. Looking at the pretty face which revealed a hideous expression, he could only let himself enter a trance for a moment: Is this woman truly the one he loved? His childhood cousin?


    ¡°I¡¯m no fool.¡± Shi Fengju cited the words clearly, ¡°There are things that do not need evidence to confirm. Also, Sang Wan did not tell me anything.¡±


    Gu Fangzi nibbled her lips so as not to speak. Of course, she knew, whatever the matter, so long as Shi Fengju wished to know, nothing can then be hidden from him.


    ¡°So she didn¡¯t say anything!¡± Gu Fangziughed in ridicule. ¡°So it seems Big Cousin took the initiative to stand up for her!¡±


    ¡°So, it really was you? Fang¡¯er, why?¡± Shi Fengju eximed, ¡°Had it ever went through your mind that if that had caused a scene, it¡¯ll affect our Shi family¡¯s reputation as well.¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin, is this really only because of the reputation? Or are you here to stand up for Cousin Sang Wan?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes were scorching red.


    Shi Fengju was somewhat not daring to meet with Gu Fangzi¡¯s gaze. After a moment of hesitation, he asked, ¡°You haven¡¯t told me why you did it!¡±


    Gu Fangzi reeked with jealousy and she grunted hatefully, ¡°And you haven¡¯t answered mine either. Big Cousin, why do you ask me? Is it truly for the Shi family¡¯s reputation? If that¡¯s so, then don¡¯t worry because no one outside will dare to speak a word of it outside!¡±


    ¡°Was it on purpose?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Gu Fangzi sneered, ¡°I did it on purpose! I wanted you and Aunt Wang to see, and the whole of the household to see, that her family is a total misfit for the Shi family! Sang Wan isn¡¯t worthy of you! She doesn¡¯t fit to be your wife, but I do!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s head in that moment fluttered off to recall Gu Fangzi¡¯s family situation, her parents, but he forced himself to stop and he whispered, ¡°In the end, you still don¡¯t believe in me, do you?¡±

 Chapter 49 (V2): You Are My Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 49 (V2): You Are My Daughter</h4>


    Gu Fangzi went silent.


    Shi Fengju heart felt as if an icicle had pierced his heart before an indescribable disappointment slowly filled the hole.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you believe me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because your actions don¡¯t live up to your words!¡± Gu Fangzi burst into tears and asked Shi Fengju sourly, ¡°Do you like her now? Hold onto your conscience and tell me, have you started liking her? Do you think that I¡¯m finding fault in you for no reason whatsoever and that I¡¯m very sinister? Tell me!¡±


    Shi Fengju did not speak and his expression turned calm, ¡°Fang¡¯er, I hope that nothing of this sort happens again in the future. I hope that the Fang¡¯er I like isn¡¯t like that.¡±


    Once he was done, he turned and left.


    ¡°Big Cousin!¡± A burst of panic erupted in Gu Fangzi and she ran after Shi Fengju, hugging him tightly from behind. With her face pasted at his back, she choked with sobs, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry! Big Cousin, it¡¯s me who¡¯s in the wrong and not you! Don¡¯t be angry, please don¡¯t ignore me! Big Cousin, I did it because I was nervous, afraid that you might not want me anymore; I¡¯m really afraid! Big Cousin, I cannot live without you! Big Cousin!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s body stiffened and he sighed, ¡°Promise me, never do it again.¡±


    ¡°En, en! I promise, I promise! Never again, never again!¡± Gu Fangzi nodded desperately.


    Shi Fengju smiled and turned to pat her back gently, ¡°Fang¡¯er, believe in me.¡±


    ¡°En, then, you¡¯ve to promise me that your heart will never change!¡± Gu Fangzi hugged him even tighter this time around and rested herself in his arms.


    ¡°I, promise.¡± Shi Fengju became unattentive in that moment but still nodded gently.


    Only then did Gu Fangzi¡¯s tears finally stopped and she spoke softly, ¡°On the day after tomorrow, Big Cousin will be leaving home so I¡¯ve personally sewed two clothes for you. My handicraft isn¡¯t great, but Big Cousin, you must notugh at them.¡±


    ¡°Really? You made clothes for me?¡± Shi Fenjuughed, ¡°When did you be so maidenly?¡± Since young, Gu Fangzi had never liked to do the work of women. Not just clothes, she had never gift him a belt and footwear before. As for an embroidered sachet, that was a few long years ago.


    Gu Fangzi gave a nce at him and joked half-heartedly, ¡°So you think only that wife of yours can be a maiden and I cannot?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes turned dark but he forced a smile.


    Gu Fangzi went on and rambled, ¡°Those friends of yours who are a negative influence on you, you¡¯d better get far away from them and never learn from them! You¡¯re not allowed to visit the brothel and date other girls outside! Hmph, if I find out, I¡¯ll definitely not forgive you!¡±


    ¡°How would I! Was I ever that kind of person?¡± Shi Fengju restrained himself andughed.


    ¡°You never know! So I¡¯m here to remind you!¡± Gu Fangzi puffed.


    On to Sang Wan¡¯s side, she was almost done with packing the luggage. In there were his sleepwear, underwear and shorts, outerwear, cloak, shoes and socks, belts, headbands, and many others packed neatly for different asions. There were also towels, soap, and other toiletries, lotus paste buns, pancakes, nail clipper, a jade ring, and many others all loaded into tworge trunks and two small trunks. With a smile, she spoke to Shi Fengju, ¡°The list of items was in the trunk so it was easy enough for me to pack! Tomorrow, Nanny will have someone to lift these to Zhan Huan and pass on a message to have him buy the items if there¡¯s any that¡¯s missing! The outside is never like home, Zhan Huan and the rest may not think on a whole and may be unattentive. When that timees, remind them a little or they¡¯ll end up bingzy!¡± There, Sang Wan rumbled for a long time.


    Shi Fengju felt a sense of warmth in his heart but somehow forced his words to give an opposite meaning, ¡°Actually, you can just let the servants do these packing; there¡¯s no need for you to do it personally. After all... I mean, it¡¯s enough to have the servants do it!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression turned a little pale but sheughed, barely, ¡°Just like you said! Thank you for apanying my big brother yesterday, so just treat this as thanks!¡±


    Shi Fengju knew deep down that she had already begun packing since a few days ago, but after hearing those words, he secretly regretted having said so.


    Only to listen to Sang Wan going on, ¡°Then again, it was Mother who assigned me to do so, so can I not listen? What¡¯s more, there was also Nanny Li who was present!¡±


    In other words, she was doing this for others to see.


    Shi Fengju smiled, a smile that was extremely forced. Unbeknown to her, those words made his heart somewhat disappointed.


    ¡°Oh that¡¯s right, ¡± Sang Wan tidied the strains of hair hanging down her temple before bringing out a rectangr wooden box. ¡°This is a medicine chest. Inside, there are gauzes, anti-bruise powder, Vermilion powder, Zhuge powder, Vermilion pills, shixiang fansheng pills, rose hip pills, loquat cream, White Tiger balm and many othermon pills. This medicine box is also water resistant, but it¡¯s best to store it carefully in case it may be needed. Of course, not having to use it would be best!¡±


    ¡°Thank you for being so thoughtful!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and received it.


    Sang Wan smiled and shook her head, ¡°There¡¯s no need for us to be so overly polite to each other.¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded in agreement before pondering for a moment and spoke, ¡°I might only be able to return on August 15th. In these three months, you¡¯ve to take care of yourself. If there¡¯s anything you need, discuss it over with Nanny Li, she¡¯s a wise olddy. Also, help me take good care of my mother! If you suffer from anyints after,¡± Shi Fengju gazed at her and continued, ¡°please endure a little until I return.¡±


    Sang Wan thought to herself: So you know, there I was thinking you don¡¯t! During the period when you¡¯re gone, who knows what else that cousin of your¡¯s might do!


    ¡°Alright, then I shall wait for you to return to bring justice.¡± Sang Wanughed.


    Shi Fengju could not help butugh along.


    On the very next day, the entire family had a meal together. Second Young Mistress had not went to see Sang Wan for a while which had something to do with her being a little sick these few days. Meeting again this time around, the two greeted a little less than before.


    Early morning on the eighth of May, Wang Shi brought Shi Fengju, Sang Wan, and Gu Fangzi to the ancestral tablets and burned the incense. Once done, they kowtowed and ce the food offerings such as a whole chicken, fish, roasted square pork, and wine before praying to the ancestors to keep Shi Fengju safe and give him their blessings. Now again, Wang Shi led them to the temple to burn the incense, sprinkled rice water, and murmured some words of prayer before holding on to Shi Fengju¡¯s hand all the way and would only let go once he had to leave the household.


    The Shi family had always been merchants and Shi Fengju had to go on trips that were either long or short every year. Wang Shi had always been worried for him but was also used to it. As such, on this asion, there was no crying and only a face of a mother who missed her son. So on a whole, the atmosphere was somewhat alright.


    In front of the entire crowd, Gu Fangzi suddenly boarded Shi Fenju¡¯s carriage and directed a smile at Wang Shi,¡± Aunt Wang, I want to go to the wharf to send Big Cousin off on his trip!¡±


    The crowd was immediately taken aback, even Shi Fengju himself.


    Shi Fengju could not help but give a glimpse at Sang Wan. Seeing that she was restraining herself, his heart immediately received a blow. But Gu Fangzi had already boarded the carriage and announced it to the crowd, there was no way he could just chase her off.


    The servants from the household department were also taken aback by Gu Fangzi¡¯s actions and they looked at each other strangely before a glisten shone in their eyes as they looked excitedly at their Young Mistress¡¯s expression secretly.


    Nanny Li, on the other hand, was extremely furious. Although that anger in her was not openly revealed, her face was dark and she rolled her eyes at Gu Fangzi.


    ¡°This,¡± The crowd gauged Sang Wan¡¯s expression with a little discretion. Wang Shi and everyone else looked at Sang Wan to seek her opinion.


    Although it was embarrassing, Sang Wan held herself back and did not let the tears trickle down her eyes!


    ¡°Enough. Mother, Sang Wan, you can all return now! I¡¯ll have someone send my cousin backter! Sang Wan, take care of yourself, and take good care of mother in my stead!¡± Shi Fengju gave a smile barely enough and coughed.


    Seeing that he knows to protect her reputation and speak a few good words of his own to her in front of everyone else, Sang Wan blushed a little and nodded at him with a smile, ¡°My husband, don¡¯t worry for I will! Mother and I shall await your return!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes! May you have a smooth and safe trip, and return back as soon as possible!¡± Wang Shi smiled.


    Shi Fengju nodded before ordering the coachman to drive the carriage away.


    When Gu Fangzi returned to the household, her expression was not so good-looking as she red at Ning Garden with jealousy and resentment before hurrying back to the Peony Park.


    Can she really believe in Big Cousin? Is a man¡¯s promise somewhat credible? Gu Fangzi was at this moment caught in an unprecedented conflict and dilemma.


    Very soon, something was about to happen which would change her mindset to make haste!


    Not more than two days after Shi Fengju left home, Gu Fangzi¡¯s father, Gu Jin, found his way to the Shi household.


    Catching wind of the news from a servant, Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression became troubled and she ordered a servant to lead that man to a secluded waiting room in the outer courtyard. Cursing fiercely under her breath, she wrapped a few pieces of broken silvers in a veil and went to meet him in secret.


    She was still some distance away and she could already hear her father yelling loudly, ¡°You people of the Shi family are really very stingy! Not even a jug of wine is given? Do you all know who I am? I am your Miss Gu¡¯s father, her biological father! I do not drink tea, serve up the wine, bring me the wine now!¡±


    What a disgrace! Gu Fangzi felt both ashamed and furious as she rushed over and red at the maidservants to leave before frowning at her father, ¡°Father! What are you yelling for!¡±


    ¡°What? You see me as a disgrace? Even so, you¡¯re still my daughter! A Gu family¡¯s member!¡± Gu Jin grinned and exposed his yellowed teeth.


    Gu Fangzi had always hated hearing those words as they sounded extremely ear-piercing. However, she could only endure and spoke patiently, ¡°Why have youe? Is there any matter?¡±


    ¡°Oh, ¡± Gu Jin looked at her from head to toe and startedughing, ¡°Is that how you should be speaking to your own father? It seems to me like I¡¯m an outsider and this is your home! My daughter, don¡¯t be in such a hurry! You aren¡¯t surnamed Shi yet! And I¡¯ve yet to see the Shi family¡¯s betrothal gifts!¡±


    ¡°Father!¡± Gu Fangzi stomped her foot and spoke coldly, ¡°If you say these words again, don¡¯t me me for ignoring you!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that!¡± Gu Jinughed, ¡°Whatever my reason for finding you, I¡¯m sure you know very well.¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face remained cold and she drew out the veil which had a few broken pieces of silver and gave it to Gu Jin, ¡°Just these, take it!¡±


    Gu Jin weighed the veil in his hand andughed, ¡°I say, my daughter, aren¡¯t you being very ungrateful to this father of yours? In the Shi family where you¡¯re given shelter, delicacies, and silk and satin clothes to wear, yet you show this little respect to your father? Chasing off someone like me whom you see as a beggar, I see!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sneered, ¡°Father, what belongs to the Shi family belongs to the Shi family. This daughter of yours freeloading in the Shi family is already embarrassing enough already. Where would I even get the face to ask them for money to show you any respect! Just these few were me being thrifty to save up, so take it or leave it!¡±


    Gu Jin ignored his daughter¡¯sshing words and rolled his eyes with a sudden realization, ¡°Just like you said! You¡¯re still not a member of the Shi family, freeloading here isn¡¯t a really good idea! In that case, you will follow me back! Go, we¡¯ll go back now! Until the day the Shi family brings me the betrothal gifts and carry a big red sedan to receive you, you¡¯ll be staying with me!¡±


    With that, Gu Jin grabbed Gu Fangzi¡¯s arm and forced her to leave with him.

 Chapter 50 (V2): Gu Jin’s Silver Fraud

    <h4>Chapter 50 (V2): Gu Jin¡¯s Silver Fraud</h4>


    ¡°What are you doing!¡± Gu Fangzi cried and snatched her arm back before speaking hatefully, ¡°Do you hate to see me live a good life, to a point where you wish to see me suffer?! Am I right?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll still have to depend on you to care for me when I¡¯m old, so why would I do that?¡± Gu Jin sneered, ¡°You¡¯re my daughter, isn¡¯t it right for me to bring you home? Those Shi people can¡¯t possibly steal you away from me, right? Hmph, without a dowry, don¡¯t they ever dare to dream of stealing away my flower; in their dreams!¡± With effort, he spits on the floor and cursed, ¡°Those bunch of dishonest merchants!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was furious, to an extent where she became speechless and her lips quivering.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going with you!¡± Gu Fangzi spoke, with words full of hate, ¡°Just go on your own!¡±


    ¡°I understand, is that Shi Old Mistress not letting you go? Then I¡¯ll go find her and talk some sense into her!¡± Gu Jin roared, ¡°Those Shi family holding onto my daughter and not letting her go, just what is the meaning of this! Today, if I do not get a statement from them, I¡¯ll not leave!¡±


    ¡°Father! Father!¡± Gu Fangzi became anxious and pulled Gu Jin by his arm.


    In the Shi family, Gu Jin was most afraid of Shi Fengju. Shi Fengju may look like an elegant and gentle person who had never raised a brow at him and never insulted him indiscriminately, however, for those like him, they could turn his life into a living hell without any notice! And because of that, so long as Shi Fengju was home, he dared note to the Shi family to create a ruckus. And even if he dide, he would onlye sneakily to demand a few wine silvers.


    But now that Shi Fengju¡¯s foot was out the door, Gu Jin¡¯s foot stepped in through the back! And of course, this time, he was here to catch a big fish.


    ¡°What are you pulling me for! Stupid daughter whose neck is always outside, taking my goodwill for ill-intent! Do you really think that the Shi family values you? If so, then why did that Shi Fengju kid marry thess from the Sang family and not you? They are taking advantage of you, they¡¯re tricking you, you foolish daughter of mine! If not me, your father, to care for you, who else will? Today, if the Shi family does not give their statement, this father of yours will not leave!¡±


    ¡°Enough! Father, enough!¡± Gu Fangzi choked in tears. This was like a thorn in her heart where a slight stir would prick her heart. On days, she was not even willing to give it any thought, but who would have thought that Gu Jin would be the one to say it?


    ¡°What are you afraid for! Go! Go! We¡¯ll go find that olddy! Even though our Gu family isn¡¯t as great as the Shi family and their business, we shall not stand being bullied! Today, I want to hear her statement!¡±


    The dispute between father and daughter, the servants who witnessed such a disaster quickly went to bring news to Wang Shi.


    Having heard that Gu Jin hade, Wang Shi¡¯s brows wrinkled deeply. Gu Jin was a man who eats bread of idleness and drinks without restraint. That was fine and all, but the problemes when he gets drunk. He would hit others, harder and harder. Wang Shi¡¯s younger sister was hit many times by him before, blue and purple patches all around her body. There were cases where she suffered serious fractures and had difficulty getting out of bed!


    ¡°Tell him toe in!¡± Wang Shi sighed heavily. When her son was out, she had already foreseen that Gu Jin woulde to find trouble, only that she had not expected him toe so soon. Presumably, that nasty person came because he was short on silver! Wang Shi thought so that way.


    ¡°Aunt Wang!¡± Seeing Wang Shi, Gu Fangzi broke into tears and threw herself into Wang Shi¡¯s arms, ¡°Because of Fangzi¡¯s ipetence, it has brought trouble to Aunt Wang! Fangzi is to me!¡±


    Gu Jin haughtily sat down and raised his arm to wipe his forehead a few times before hooking the edge of his lip up vulgarly. Rolling his eyes, he red at a servant girl and scolded, ¡°Where¡¯s the tea? So this is how the Shi family shows their hospitality!¡±


    Wang Shi, seeing Gu Fangzi¡¯s hair hung loosely onto her shoulders and her clothes crumpled, felt somewhat distressed after seeing such a delicate girl cry like a child and soothed her with a few words before ring at Gu Jin. ¡°Bring him his tea.¡± Wang Shi ordered the servant girl.


    Wang Shi helped Gu Fangzi tie up a hair bun and wiped her tears before pulling her to a side to have a seat. Positioning herself up straight, she asked Gu Jin coldly, ¡°What have youe here for? Killing my sister wasn¡¯t enough for you, and so you came all the way here so that my niece can¡¯t have any peaceful days all to herself, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Gu Jin lifted his head up and drank down all the tea at once. cing the cup on the table, he pointed at it.


    The servant girl then had to go and refill his tea.Gu Jin picked the cup up and drank it dry again. After drinking three cups, he was finally satisfied and he gave a sighed. Wiping his mouth, he directed a grin at Wang Shi and spoke, ¡°Sis¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯re you to call me your sister!¡± Wang Shi scolded.


    Gu Jin gave a broad smile. Not minding her interruption, he continued, ¡°Your sister took her own life on her own ord, it wasn¡¯t me who killed her. As of now, all I have is that girl, so why would I not wish the best for her? Sis¡ª¡ªKeke, Old Mistress Shi, I¡¯vee today to discuss something with you!¡±


    ¡°Enough, enough!¡± Wang Shi gestured impatiently as she held her anger back, ¡°So you do know that Fangzi is your daughter, so you should stop making her feel sad! Nanny Jiang, bring him a one hundred silver banknote!¡±


    ¡°Hold it!¡± Gu Jin raised his voice.


    ¡°What? Is it too little for you? Nanny Jiang, add another hundred silver! Take it and leave!¡± Wang Shi sneered; there was some sort of dislike which she had for him.


    ¡°I came here today not to ask for money.¡± Gu Jin spoke with a strange smile, ¡°I came here to bring my daughter home!¡±


    ¡°What did you say!¡± Wang Shi was taken aback, while Gu Fangzi¡¯s face was pale white.


    ¡°Fangzi¡¯s surname is Gu. She is my daughter, and I¡¯m sure you cannot deny that. I came to bring my daughter home, is there something wrong with that?¡± Gu Jinughed.


    Wang Shi¡¯s face turned extremely gloomy and she ordered the maidservants to leave first before she spoke coldly to Gu Jin, ¡°Don¡¯t beat about the bush, what exactly do you want?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s ¡®what exactly do your family want!¡¯¡± Gu Jin stretched his neck and grunted, ¡°Me sending my daughter to the Shi household with no clear reason, if word got out, our Gu family¡¯s reputation will definitely be thrown!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Wang Shi gasped as the anger within her began to rise. With no clear reason? And what Gu family¡¯s reputation!


    The Gu family still has a reputation to keep? This scoundrel!


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face flushed with shame, for having such a father, she felt a sense of shame that had no end and she wished she could find a ce to dig a hole for herself.


    ¡°Have I said anything wrong?¡± Gu Jin waved his arm, and spoke excitedly, ¡°Before, I remained silent when Fangzi live in your household since it makes no difference whether she entered the household early or not when she would be a part of your family in the future! But now that the young master has already married the Sang family¡¯s daugther, what use is there for my daughter to stay? To make a fool of herself? Your family spoke not a word, all the way to the end! Today, we shall talk things straight!¡±


    ¡°Father!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s tears began rolling down her cheeks again but she quickly wiped them off before tugging gently on Wang Shi¡¯s sleeve with a face filled with sadness.


    Even though Gu Fangzi resented her father and was extremely dissatisfied with him, but regardless how ugly the way he phrased his speech may be, it was no doubt what she was concerned about too. He was right, the Shi family should give her a word of truth, something which she could rely on and not the words Shi Fengju spoke; to believe in him.


    Believe? That was the most worthless word in the world, and the most ridiculous one too especially when it came out from a man¡¯s mouth.


    Even if those words hade from him, the credibility of it was still discounted.


    Wang Shi was speechless at that moment, her face was furious to the point where she almost exploded. So furious that she had almost wanted Gu Jin to just bring Gu Fangzi home since taking pity on a girl had instead put them in the wrong! Money spent which did not exchange for any good words, she could make a pass for it, but to also be ndered, that she could not forgive!


    But seeing the pitiful expression on Gu Fangzi, and thinking of how she had cleverly served her those few years, Wang Shi¡¯s heart softened and she had to hold her anger back.


    ¡°We will give Fangzi a purpose!¡±


    ¡°All talk and no action, who can¡¯t do that?¡± Gu Jin wanted more than that, and he went on the aggressive, ¡°Unless you break ties with that Sangss and her family, and wee Fangzi as a member, I will not believe you all!¡±


    ¡°Outrageous!¡± Wang Shi raged, ¡°My daughter-inw is decent and gentle, she¡¯s not someone we could just break ties with!¡±


    ¡°Then what do you want to do?¡± Gu Jin smiled coldly.


    Wang Shi snorted when a thought came to her and she spoke inly, ¡°Shi and Sang family¡¯s marriage, I¡¯m sure you know of it. So why did juste here now to bring your daughter home? I wonder why?¡±


    Gu Jin rolled his eyes, and spoke, ¡°Then let¡¯s open the bag! The Shi family has to make my Fangzi into a concubine!¡±


    ¡°Fine then, a concubine,¡± it was a fact which she had discussed with Gu Fangzi about before, but had never clearly spoke of it. Now that the word was out, Wang Shi felt somewhat embarrassed as she had let Gu Fangzi down. As such, she quickly added, ¡°Once she gives birth to a son, she¡¯ll marry in to be an offical wife! Our Shi family will definitely not treat Fangzi unfairly.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good!¡± Gu jin pped his hands. ¡°Now, since we¡¯re rtives, then I shall trust you! And since we¡¯vee to this, then let¡¯s get this going! My daughter isn¡¯t young anymore, so she can¡¯t keep waiting like this!¡±


    This b*stard! Wang Shi cursed him in her heart.


    Her daughter-inw had just entered the family not more than two months ago; to hold a grand ceremony to receive a concubine who grew up in the household, not only will her new daughter-inw lose her face and her family not agreeing to it, the Shi family will be seen as being unkind by the public.


    ¡°Even if that doesn¡¯t happen now, you can first give the betrothal gifts, right?¡± Gu Jin went on with his pace and added another sentence. After all, that was his main objective.


    Betrothal gifts? Wang Shi pressed her lips tightly together.


    Never had she heard of giving any betrothal gifts to receive a concubine. The Shi family is one that is respected, and does things ording to the customs!


    ¡°That, you¡¯ll have to wait until Shi Fengju returns! This marrieddy cannot finalize that decision!¡± Wang Shi thought for a moment and decided to drag for as long as possible. ¡°This is a bank note of five hundred silvers. Take it and use first.¡±


    Gu Jin was satisfied and grinned, ¡°Good! That¡¯s done! The Old Mistress truly is straightforward!¡±


    Gu Jin was extremely pleased with himself. Everything had went ordingly, and so long as Wang Shi does not quickly ept Gu Fangzi as a member, then the more he could extort out of her. If his daughter bes theirs, then taking silvers out of their hand would no longer be as easy anymore!


    ¡°Aunt Wang, I¡¯m sorry...¡± Gu Fangzi had not expect Wang Shi to evade the matter, and her heart could not help but feel somewhat disappointed. However, her face showed otherwise; a face of uneasiness and shame.


    Wang Shi patted her gently at her back and spoke softly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Aunt Wang will stand up for you.¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Gu Fangzi was half grateful and half ashamed as she hung her head low. Her hands, however, were clutched tightly as her mind spoke to herself. One said to believe in him, and the other said she would stand up for me; like mother, like son!

 Chapter 51 (V2): Old Mistress Zhuang’s Invitation

    <h4>Chapter 51 (V2): Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s Invitation</h4>


    ¡°Lass, aren¡¯t you going to see your father off?¡± Gu Jin received the banknote from Nanny Jiang and nodded gleefully before shooting a grin at Gu Fangzi.


    ¡°Go! Send him out of this ce.¡± Wang Shi waved her tired hand.


    Gu Fangzi softly epted and re at Gu Jin grudgingly before leading him out.


    Right at the household¡¯s gate, Gu Jin again begged for the few broken pieces of silver which Gu Fangzi took out from before, iming that he had not eaten lunch and had no money to hire a carriage home. When Gu Fangzi was not paying him much attention, he pulled down the gold hairpin on her head and forcefully pulled off the jade bracelet from her wrist. ¡°The Shi family is rich, just have Shi Fengju thatd buy a new one for you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s whole body trembled angrily but she held that anger in as she watched him swagger home whistling a small tune.


    Fortunately, she was foresighted after having seen him pawn all the good ornaments.


    ¡°What should we do! This matter cannot be dyed any further!¡± Wang Shi frowned and sighed.


    It was not that Gu Jin had nevere to create a ruckus to obtain gifts of money, but the conversation this time around was the first ever. Truly, was it him who came up with it, or was there someone instigating from behind? In any case, his appetite had gotten bigger than before.


    In the past, a few dozens of silvers, or a hundred silvers was enough to make him leave. But this time, he was given five hundred silvers and might want more in the future.


    If he was not given the amount which satisfies him, he would take Gu Fangzi away. If that happens, even she would not be able to stop him! After all, they were father and daughter! It would be his win even if this case reaches the government officials! However, she could not just turn a blind eye and watch Fangzi get taken away to suffer!


    ¡°This is not an easy matter to handle. In any case, Miss Gu and the young master is a matter that¡¯ll soon happen, admitting her to the family and all will be solved! As the saying goes, a married daughter is just like water that has been poured. When that timees, his ruckus will have a limit!¡±


    Nanny Jiang saw through Wang Shi¡¯s heart and spoke with a smile.


    ¡°But,¡± Wang Shi spoke with difficulty, ¡°My new daughter-inw came not more than two months ago! Sang Wan is a good child, really, I really am fond of her and wish not to hurt her. Also, there¡¯s the Sang family. They¡¯re a literary family, there¡¯s no way they would let us do as we please. My son really made a mess this time!¡±


    Wang Shi snorted and directed all her anger to Shi Fengju. If he had not been dissatisfied with the engagement with the Sang family and dragged the marriage all the way until this year, Sang Wan would be able to enter early, which means Fangzi would be able to enter soon after, right? Then nothing like today would have happened!


    ¡°From this old servant¡¯s perspective, the key for this matter lies in Young Mistress¡¯s hand.¡± Nanny Jiang smiled. Seeing Wang Shi listening attentively, she went on, ¡°If Young Mistress is the one to suggest letting Young Master have a concubine, then that would be Young Mistress¡¯s virtuousness. No one else, not even the Sang family, can say anything to it!¡±


    ¡°Look at what you just said, you think Sang Wan would do it?¡± Wang Shiughed and rolled her eyes at Nanny Jiang, ¡°Well, unless she¡¯s foolish enough!¡±


    ¡°Keke,¡± Nanny Jiang just continued, ¡°The daughter-inw cannot disobey her mother-inw! Hasn¡¯t that always been the case!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s face stiffened and she hesitated for a moment. It was true that if she were to direct from behind the scenes, Sang Wan would have no way of objecting.


    But on the thought of Sang Wan¡¯s graceful smile, her actions, her gentleness and respectfulness she had towards her, Wang Shi again found it unbearable to do so and sighed, ¡°It can be put that way, but that would be just, just very bad for Sang Wan! From the looks of it, Fengju actually do quite like her. The affection they have towards each other is positive and the family is also at harmony. Even my life has be morefortable! If her heart does happen to start growing thorns of hatred, followed by unhappiness between the couple and turning the entire household upside down, wouldn¡¯t it all be my fault?¡±


    Nanny Jiang went silent.


    Seeing that she had remained silent, Wang Shi leaned her head and scolded, ¡°What else do you want to say, spout it all out in one breath quickly!¡±


    Nanny Jiangughed and spoke without restraint, ¡°These words are not all that nice to hear, but which daughter-inw had never suffer under a mother-inw? Just how many out there have a mother-inw as generous and kind as Old Mistress! Till this day, Young Mistress has such a mother-inw who does not need her to greet in the morning, no need to serve like under the tradition, and no need to cook in the kitchen. She¡¯s able to wearfortable clothes, with food served up to her, silk clothings and embroidered clothes to wear with many gold and silver ornaments, servants to serve her and tter her, and she can do anything she wants, like sleeping in her chamber and no one can fault her for that! If such a small matter is considered bad, then this old servant does not know what is worse!


    What¡¯s more, Miss Gu entering the family was a matter that was irond and I¡¯m sure You g Mistress should have known about it. You should let Young Mistress do the favor, and I¡¯m sure Miss Gu will be very grateful towards her. Who knows, maybe their rtionship would be better? And one more thing! If you deem that it would hurt Young Mistress, then wouldn¡¯t it just be fine to treat her better in the future? If Young Mistress blindly cares only for herself and not for the sake of this family, the young master, and you, then her virtuousness is nothing but a false one! This old servant has spoken too much, this old servant shouldn¡¯t have berated a master!¡±


    After saying those words, Nanny Jiang took a step back and bowed to seek forgiveness.


    ¡°At ease!¡± Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°When the door¡¯s closed, there¡¯s nothing we can¡¯t say! What you said is right, then from what I see, we shall go with it! However, this matter will only be decided by Fengju once he returns, but I¡¯ll first notify Sang Wan of this.¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress is truly thoughtful!¡± Nanny Jiang added a praise hurriedly.


    At this moment, a maidservant arrived with news: The Zhuang family had someone sent an invitation!


    Hearing the word ¡°Zhuang family¡±, Old Mistress Wang became anxious, but after hearing that it was just a servant who had sent it, and not Old Mistress Zhuang herself, she heaved a sigh of relief and gently patted her chest. ¡°Damnedss, frightened me for a moment there! But thankfully, thankfully!¡± She had thought that Old Mistress Zhuang got wind of Gu Jin making a ruckus in the household and hade to make fun of her! But thinking again, when had Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s intel been well-informed? It was clear that she had frightened herself and she could not help butugh.


    The servant greeted and handed the invitation. In three days time, Old Mistress Zhuang would be hosting a banquet and had invited her over. Wang Shi did not give much thought and epted it happily.


    ¡°I heard that Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s sister-inw brought her sister-inw¡¯s or whatever rtive¡¯s daughter over. I heard that she¡¯s quite a talented girl, isn¡¯t it so?¡± Wang Shi ced the invitation aside and asked.


    ¡°Should be so.¡± Nanny Jiang nodded and added easily, ¡°Not sure how many of those rtives she had kidnapped, but I heard that Old Mistress Zhuang even called her nieces over one at a time! Most probably she¡¯s doing this for her son! Qie, what talented girl! From what I see, that girl definitely won¡¯t be better than our Young Mistress!¡±


    ¡°I think so too!¡± Wang Shi suddenly had a gain in morale and she spoke, ¡°Have someone invite Sang Wan over!¡± This daughter-inw of mine, whether she has talent or not, the oue will soon be clear. If she lost to that Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s rtive, then mentioning Gu Fangzi entering the family would be a little easier; and if she wins, then she would get some good words from me and better treatment towards her in the future!


    Wang Shi made up her mind and spoke with Nanny Jiang, ¡°What we discussed just now, do not tell Young Mistress about it yet. Wait until after the banquet!¡±


    Nanny Jiang found it funny andughed before speaking quickly, ¡°Had this old servant ever gossiped about matters regarding my masters? Other than you, no one else has the qualifications to say!¡±


    It was true and Wang Shi smiled before nodding.


    Fortunately, at this day, Second Old Mistress Shi and her daughter-inw were having a quarrel which turned the atmosphere there foul. Judging by Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s temperament, she would always blow her frustration and anger towards Second Young Mistress Shi. Second Young Mistress Shi would then solemnly slip away to hide at Sang Wan¡¯s ce. The two wives were thus discussing the way the servants drew the flowers while gossiping and eating melon seeds.


    Upon hearing that Wang Shi wishes to see her, Sang Wan patted on her skirt before getting up. Grabbing a hand full of sugared melon seeds, she gave it to the messenger and asked, ¡°Has any guest came to visit?¡±


    The messenger received the seeds with thanks andughed, ¡°No, a servant from the Zhuang family came with an invitation to invite Old Mistress to a banquet. As such, Old Mistress ordered this servant to call Young Mistress over.¡±


    ¡°I understand!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll change my clothes before going!¡±


    Wang Shi loved to see people dressed nicely. The in upper garment she had on was a little too in, better have a change of clothes first.


    Sang Wan then looked over at Second Young Mistress Shi who quickly smiled, ¡°Since it was Aunt Wang who called, go ahead. I¡¯ll be here to watch these servant girls finish the two pictures before going back!¡±


    Despite the fact that when the owner is away, the guests should take their leave. However, Second Young Mistress did not want to return to her turbid life so soon, and even if she had to return, it would be after Second Old Mistress Shi had calmed down. It was all written on her face.


    The way she phrased it, she knew Sang Wan would not inconvenience herself to chase her away. Sang Wan smiled at her and told her to do as she please before ncing at Hong Ye. But seeing that she had already invited the messenger to have a seat and chatting softly while drinking tea and having snacks, she then called for Liu Ya before going to the innermost area of the chamber to have a change of clothes.


    After a short while, Sang Wan had changed to a red narrow-sleeved satin beizi with primrose painted patterns strewed around it, and a pink blossom long skirt. Her hair was also readied differently with a headdress embedded with pearls in three different points, and her empty wrist was dressed with a creamy white jade bracelet. Sang Wan called for Nanny Li, and together with two maidservants, they followed the messenger from behind.


    Wang Shi was especially warm and enthusiastic today. After meeting Sang Wan¡¯s eyes, she smiled, which made Sang Wan feel secretly surprised and at the same time suspicious as well.


    The banquet would be held by the Zhuang family and Sang Wan naturally could not refuse. Smiling softly, she nodded and asked humbly, ¡°Your daughter-inw had never attended such a banquet before and knows not how to dress. Your daughter-inw is not afraid of othersughing at her because of that, but still wishes to learn a few pointers from mother!¡±


    Wang Shi was ted upon hearing so andughed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry! I¡¯ve already thought of that. Later on, a tailor, best in the city, wille to make clothes tailored just for you. There¡¯s two to three days, enough to produce a brand new clothes! The clothes must also have matching jewelry, so a jewelry professional will alsoe to do the matching. When everything¡¯s done, I¡¯ll have someone send it over to you!¡±


    Sang Wan put her heart at ease and said with a smile, ¡°There¡¯s nothing better than that! Mother truly is thoughtful, your daughter-inw is ashamed of not being able to do so!¡±


    Wang Shi smiled and waved her hand before saying, ¡°What we have here in this house is money, so that much is nothing! Sang Wan, Mother had heard that Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s distant niece is a talented girl! When that timees, you¡¯ve to be at your mother¡¯s side and suppress that woman!¡± Tell everyone who¡¯s present to know who¡¯s the real talented one!¡±


    The pressure is strong on this one! Sang Wan secretly cried bitterly. Although she was knowledgeable in reading excerpts, in such arge world beneath the skies, there would definitely be someone more talented than her. Since the other person was imed to be a talented woman, she was not one to be trifled with. Not saying anything else, but Old Mistress Zhuang had always fought with Mother-inw. If that woman had no talent, Old Mistress Zhuang would definitely not show her off, or even hold such arge banquet!

 Chapter 52 (V2): Indirect Criticism and Counterattack

    <h4>Chapter 52 (V2): Indirect Criticism and Counterattack</h4>


    Deep down, Sang Wan was clear of how easily Wang Shi could be coaxed, and at the same time of her unpredictable temperament. Although her heart was not at ease, she dared not show a single hesitation on the surface and nodded as she spoke, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. Sang Wan will not put you to shame!¡±


    Wang Shi smiled, ¡°That¡¯s good to hear, that¡¯s good to hear! Your family is a family of schrs, Mother believes you will certainly not lose to others! Sang Wan, this isn¡¯t only about Mother¡¯s face, but also yours. When we¡¯re there, many other women with status within Qingzhou will be present. When they witness your capability, who would dare to underestimate you!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s heart tightened and she became somewhat nervous for a moment.


    ¡°En,¡± Wang Shi smiled and grinned. ¡°It¡¯s good that you understand! Go back then! For the next few days, there won¡¯t be any need for you toe and greet me. Whatever books you wish to read, just say. And whichever books the household does not have, just have a servant buy it!¡±


    Sang Wan was not sure whether tough or to cry for the way money was used. Was studying a thing possibly done overnight? However, since her mother-inw had spoken, these **** two or three days, it would be best to at least act it out. As such, she expressed her gratitude before getting up to leave.


    Originally, for such a banquet, it would be Gu Fangzi who followed along. But after the trouble with Gu Jin, Wang Shi felt a little guilty, and together with her fear of Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s sharp mouth and nose which would provoke Sang Wan and Gu Fangzi deliberately, she simply had Gu Fangzi remain in the household.


    And of course, Gu Fangzi took it as a sign that her aunt had favored her less. Even though she agreed, her heart had a strong sense of hatred for having such an insensible father who did not care for her, always creating trouble, and always actingcent in front of Wang Shi.


    As Gu Fangzi pondered deeply, she suddenly had this thought, that at least she had a father, unlike Sang Wan whose parents were both gone! But thinking again, Sang Wan had her siblings to rely on, whereas she had no one!


    In that moment, she could not help but feel even more saddened, and she burst into tears secretly.


    The night before the banquet, Nanny Jiang personally sent the new clothes and matching jewelry to Ning Garden and handed it over to Sang Wan.


    A threeyered clothing, with the middle being high-cored and beige in color with stitchings of shallow pink and gold hibiscus flowers around the cor to match with the outer coat¡¯s cor. Right beneath the high-cor was a plum blossom shaped using white jade, and the heart of the flower waspleted using a shiny dove-blood red ruby. Autumn color scheme used on the skirt and its floral patterns weaved using extremely fine golden threads. Even the belt, the pendant, and the sachet all looked extremely well-done.


    A pair long hairpin made from chestnut jasper stone, and a flower hairpin with a pearl-sized jasper embedded, connected together with a fine silk tassel. At its end, it was decorated with a pomegranate-colored zed ss pearl which was asrge as a thumb. Using them with a suiting hairstyle would make aplete set, apanied by the other essories of jade, gold, pearls, and precious stones, it was an awe.


    The tailor and jewelry professional no doubt lived up to their reputation. This set of clothes and jewelry were a good fit with Sang Wan¡¯s temperament. Not too luxurious yet not too vulgar at the same time, revealing her graceful elegance within the riches.


    Liu Ya and the othersid the jewelry and clothes together and the crowd could not help but meet it with praise. Even Sang Wan liked it, and she gratefully thanked Nanny Jiang.


    Partly intentional, Nanny Jiangughed, ¡°Old Mistress said to have Young Mistress wear this! The Shi household will sooner orter be your¡¯s to care for, so there¡¯ll be many more goods things toe!¡± Picking up a pendant iid with a lustrous gold-ted jadeite, she said to Sang Wan, ¡°Such a smooth and transparent one, a good jadeite like this is very rare, not just in Qingzhou, but even in Jiangnan, there won¡¯t be anything like this elsewhere. This pendant is Old Mistress¡¯s most precious! Even her eldest daughter whom she most dote was not given this when she was married off!¡±


    Sang Wan stared at the pendant that was as huge as a thumb and perfectly round and smooth, with its color like the river with no impurity. It was clearer than the jadeite bracelet which she owned. As such, she knew that Nanny Jiang was speaking the truth.


    So Sang Wanughed, ¡°Sang Wan is undeserving to have Mother¡¯s fondness. Sang Wan will double her filiality towards Mother! Nanny Jiang, please tell Mother that the gift is too valuable and Sang Wan cannot ept it. After the banquet, Sang Wan will return it to Mother!¡±


    Nanny Jiang praised secretly: Young Mistress really knows how to say good words! To state Old Mistress¡¯ precious to be a feared gift to ept yet said it in a reasonable manner. Even if Old Mistress were to ept it back, she wouldn¡¯t lose her face and be deemed ¡®petty¡¯.


    Nanny Jiang hurriedly spoke, ¡°Young Mistress, please don¡¯t say that! Old Mistress specifically told this old servant to give this to you. These jewelry are for Young Mistress to keep after the banquet!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback, and suddenly felt even more pressure pressing onto her. For Mother-inw to even take out a precious jewelry, it seems the gathering is an event which she had to win. Otherwise¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Then Sang Wan shall thank Mother! The day isn¡¯t early anymore, Nanny, please go back! I¡¯ll discuss about this again after the banquet!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    If she was unsessful at the banquet, then she definitely had no face to ept these jewelry.


    Nanny Jiang understood the meaning and smiled as she left.


    Early the next morning, Sang Wan dressed tidily and checked herself repeatedly before bringing Nanny Li and Liu Ya along, together with two other servant girls, to where Wang Shi was.


    Wang Shi was already waiting and seeing Sang Wan, her eyes glistened as she nod her head and said, ¡°My daughter-inw truly is beautiful! All of you, just look at her, there¡¯s no one in Qingzhou who can second such a magnificent aura, is it not?¡±


    The crowdughed, ¡°Not just the aura, there¡¯s definitely not a second with a body who can wear those clothes!¡±


    Wang Shi was pleased and ordered a servant to bring the jade green handkerchief from her collection which came from Tianshui and reced the red silk handkerchief in Sang Wan¡¯s hand.


    Sang Wan smiled and received it with thanks, but suddenly, the thought of a wooden puppet which resembled a human came to mind.


    She was no better than a wooden puppet. At the very least, the puppet could not think. As for her, she had a battle to conquer.


    The mother and daughter left the household looking gorgeous, bringing with them a group of maidservants, as they traveled by carriage to the Zhuang family¡¯s courtyard located in the southern part of the city.


    The Zhuang family was also one of the wealthy families in Qingzhou. As such, it was needless to say how beautifully the house was decorated. Today, Old Mistress Zhuang held the banquet at Yuhua pavilion in her flower garden. Under the wide canopy sat the beautiful flower bed flourished inside the loft, and a wide water body with a stage erected by the side. While setting up the banquet, one can enjoy the picturesque beauty and the calm breeze which blows from the water body. Truly, much clever nning must have been done to aplish it.


    When Sang Wan and Wang Shi arrived, the Zhuang¡¯s garden had already arrived many of the wealthy women, who were dressed beautifully with splendid essories all around and had a fresh aura around them, with many making conversations around them. The air had a perfect touch of flower fragrance and the ce was very lively with the smiles andughter filling the atmosphere.


    ¡°Oh, Sister Shi has finally arrived!¡± Old Mistress Zhuang approached them with a smile and greeted. Meeting Sang Wan in the eyes, Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s eyes glistened and she went to hold Sang Wan¡¯s hand before measuring her carefully with her eyes. With augh, she spoke, ¡°This must be Sang Wan, right? Keke, no doubt fine feathers make fine birds! Now that you¡¯re all dressed up, I almost couldn¡¯t recognize you!¡± Having said that, she smiled and announced it to the crowd, ¡°All of you, have a look at Sister Shi¡¯s new daughter-inw. Isn¡¯t she beautiful? At first nce, she¡¯s definitely no different from a girl born with a silver spoon!¡±


    The crowd loved liveliness, and to say they were not envious of the Shi family was impossible. Having such an opportunity, why not take advantage of it? The crowd gathered and answered, ¡°No doubt!¡±


    Wang Shi became furious and her expression changed slightly. A mouthful of anger was trapped in her chest, unable to exit nor disappear. She had wanted to tell Old Mistress Zhuang off, but the anger in her made her not be able to, and all she could do was give a re.


    Sang Wan smiled gently and quietly retrieved her hand before bowing to the crowd. Holding onto Wang Shi bashfully with a smile, she spoke to Old Mistress Zhuang, ¡°Sang Wan is undeserving of such praise! The Sang family is one who works thend and undertakes studying of knowledge, and so, it isn¡¯t as wealthy as Old Mistress¡¯ family. However, to be able to receive Young Master¡¯s affection and Mother-inw¡¯s guidance, Sang Wan is blessed for being able to marry into the Shi family. Mother-inw¡¯s kindness, to treat Sang Wan like her own biological daughter and providing the necessities of life, Sang Wan is actually not worthy of it! Only by serving with affection and being filial to Mother-inw can Sang Wan repay for such love!¡±


    Her words not only solved her own trouble, but at the same time gave praise to Wang Shi many folds.


    Wang Shi was pleased and her anger finally lifted. Patting Sang Wan¡¯s hand gently, she proudlyughed, ¡°Once you enter our family, you¡¯re already part of the Shi family and the Shi family is yours! Sang Wan is knowledgeable and virtuous, with a temperament greater than others. No wonder Sister Zhuang had to make a fuss!¡± Having said that, Wang Shi continuedughing.


    The crowd thought so too. Regardless of Sang Wan¡¯s origins, as of now, she was the Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter-inw, which means everything of the Shi family belongs to her, no? The marriage was also held by the elders of both families. So long as no disasteres her way, the Shi family would definitely not repudiate the marriage! There would surely be many more asions in the future where therees a need for partnership. Why offend someone who¡¯s still well with them? Might as well take the opportunity to initiate a better rtionship with a chance to even win favoritism!


    And so, they quickly came forward and smiled to fool the past by praising greatly.


    Old Mistress Zhuang became unhappy and closed her mouth with a smile before calling for everyone to enter the pavilion to have a seat.


    The wealthy females would first have their meals before enjoying the flowers and the opera.


    Shortly after the banquet began, the women took their seats. Wang Shi, being the wealthiest woman in the whole of Qingzhou, sat at the main table before introducing Sang Wan to each and every member seated at the main table. Wife of Qingzhou¡¯s senior provincial government official, Old Mistress Li, and her daughter; Old Mistress Xia, wife of the owner of Xiaji Moneyhouse, and her daughter-inw; wife of the wealthyndlord Li and Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s sister-inw, Jiang Shi, and her niece, Tang Yuzhen¡ª¡ªthe talented girl imed by Old Mistress Zhuang.


    Sang Wan, instinctively stole several nces at Tang Yuzhen. Their age were almost the same, an oval-shaped face, a pair of short shoulders, pale skin, fine facial features, and wore a pale-color embroidered clothes. Graceful with a degree of modesty, and the strong schrly aura around her; no doubt a person who had immersed herself in poetry.


    Sensing Sang Wan¡¯s gaze, Tang Yuzhen raised her brow and sent a friendly smile. Embarrassed, Sang Wan returned a smile.


    Tang Yuzhen¡¯s smile held a mix of clear wealth and generosity, an attitude which had a sense of being above all else yet kept at a peaceful altitude. But if she truly was wise, why would she hold such a high self-esteem?


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart began to feel somewhat uneasy. All she hoped for was that Old Mistress Zhuang would have a change of attitude and note up with any more evil ns targeted towards her. Apparently, even she believed there would be that possibility.


    The dining table was filled with many rich and sumptuous dishes, exquisite needless to say. The women were generally picky eaters, and after tasting the food, they gave their praise. Only Sang Wan sat eating with no sense of taste; her mind was only filled with wondering what will happen soon after.


    After the meal, the servants cleared the tables away, burned an incense, and served fresh tea for the women to freshen their mouth as they sat to chat.

 Chapter 53 (V2): Competition

    <h4>Chapter 53 (V2): Competition</h4>


    Not too longter, Old Mistress Zhuang invited everyone to the center of the garden to have a tour as they enjoy the flowers. At the beginning of May, the flowers in the garden flourished, disying a grand scene. From near or far, the view was splendid, and the fragrance carried by the breeze was absolutely enchanting. With the buzzing bees and beautiful butterflies, the garden was full of life. The Zhuang family had many different flowers, each gorgeous and vibrant in color. Walking leisurely around and admiring the flowerings pleasantly, the atmosphere was great as everyone spoke withughter and joy.


    When the tour came to an end, Old Mistress Zhuang smiled to invite everyone back to their seat.


    Earlier on, a few servants were already preparing the seats under a pagoda tree. Arranged neatly on the high table, the desserts, fruits, and tea were all of an exquisite quality. At a side, the different flowers were disyed at different heights in the blue and white porcin vase for them to be admired.


    Resting on the seats while enjoying the tea and gossiping among one another was the most pleasant thing that could be done.


    Of course, having each family¡¯s Young Missy duel against each other in poetry was not a bad idea too.


    To start off, Old Mistress Zhuang brought Tang Yuzhen to her side. The crowd praised as she was introduced for they knew that Old Mistress Zhuang fancied her and would like to have her married as her daughter-inw. Now, their heads turned to look at the Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw this time around. Once the crowd was back to their seats, they nced at each other with a smile.


    Sure enough, after a few words, Old Mistress Zhuangughed, ¡°A reputable flower without a good poetry to apany it doesn¡¯t do it any justice. Forget us olddies, the missies here should be educated enough in poetry. So why not use that knowledge to put colors into these flowers? Missies, you must not refuse oh! And sisters, what do you think?¡±


    The crowd praised the suggestion. Whose family, as a mother, wouldn¡¯t want their daughters or daughter-inws to try to overwhelm the others and im that they had done the best in raising them. Losing before a fight was not an option!


    Old Mistress Zhuangughed again, ¡°I have yet with me another proposal. There are many reputable flowers in the garden, exhausting the missies too much isn¡¯t fun at all. So why don¡¯t, of the ten flowers or so, each missy writes a poetry or two about their chosen flower? Of course, Sang Wan is but a talented woman from a literary family, so doing each flower is a must! Sang Wan, what do you think?¡±


    With that, she smiled and added, ¡°It¡¯s not that I wish to deliberately make it difficult for you, but I just want to take this opportunity to showcase your knowledge in front of everyone else, and also know the difference between a daughter from a literary family and our own!¡±


    Wang Shi listened and remained quiet as she turned her head to look at Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan, however, was calm. Just making poetry was nothing difficult for her. Besides, even though thedies present were not entirely illiterate, they had limited knowledge. So long as she coulde up with them, it was enough. It did not matter whether they were good or bad.


    Moreover, since Old Mistress Zhuang had already suggested it, she could not refuse or Wang Shi would be unhappy.


    Sang Wan smiled slightly at Wang Shi, indicating to her not to worry.


    Wang Shi straightened herself andughed, ¡°Since Old Mistress Zhuang has already suggested so, then it shall be epted! But if Sang Wan doesn¡¯t do well, you all mustn¡¯tugh!¡± smiling, she added, ¡°Having only Sang Wan doing so many is hardly justifiable. Why don¡¯t we invite Miss Tang to do so too, what do you think?¡±


    Tang Yuzhen gently got up and bowed to the crowd before smiling subtly, ¡°If so, then Yuzhen shall dly ept the challenge!¡± Smoothly, she gave a quick response.


    ¡°Good, good! Miss Tang truly is quick to respond!¡± Mistress Zhuang eagerly praised as she grinned and p.


    Seeing that a lively battle was about to ur, the crowd were curious as to who would lose and who would win at the very end. As such, they all praised the contest.


    And so, Old Mistress Zhuang whispered to a maidservant and the maidservant went as ordered. Immediately, there were servants who came and distributed paper, brushes, and ink. Another servant held onto a blue patterned white vase, in it were twelve different flowers.


    Old Mistress Zhuang then ordered for someone to carry a tray up to her. On the tray was a square box half the size of the tray. Opening it up, Old Mistress Zhuang took out the content and showed it to everyone that was present. With a smile, she exined, ¡°This is a perfume obtained from the West, something more expensive than even gold itself. Today, the prize shall be this! Whoever does well today shall walk away with this bottle of perfume!¡±


    The bottle was only three inches long, and made entirely in the West. The gold screw cap with more strips of gold on the top, and a cherry red coral stone which was fixed onto the cap. Under the brilliant sun, the bottle was extremely beautiful.


    The crowd were all amazed and praised Old Mistress Zhuang for being generous!


    Even with money, purchasing a Western perfume was a difficult feat. And even more so for such a beautifully made ss bottle. The cherry red coral stone on the cap, on its own, was already worth more than a thousand silver.


    ¡°This is nothing!¡± Old Mistress Zhuangughed. ¡°This exquisite item is a much better fit for our young missies. For us olddies, this is utterly a useless item!¡±


    The crowdughed andmented that such words can only be spoken by families withrge business like the Zhuang family.


    Wang Shi¡¯s heart slightly stiffened. For Old Mistress Zhuang to be willing to take out such a rare Western perfume as the prize, she must be determined to win. Hopefully, Sang Wan would be a good opponent!


    The missies each took a flower, and thought deeply by the long table. From time to time, they would whisper to one another and joke a little.


    Only Sang Wan and Tang Yuzhen did not pick any flowers. Thedies sat quietly as they listened to Old Mistress Zhuang announce the topic, ¡°There is a saying that of the flowers, they were twelve divisions, twelve friends, and twelve servant girls. The flowers that each missies picked just now belonged to these twelve divisions. Sang Wan and Miss Tang, the both of you shall start with the twelve divisions as your theme!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Old Mistress!¡± Tang Yuzhen gave a nce at Sang Wan and smiled.


    The crowd ofdies whispered softly among each other. Many of them had never heard of the saying rting to the twelve divisions and twelve friends, and found it fresh and interesting. As such, they smiled and asked each other.


    A particr individual could not help but look at Sang Wan and gloated to herself, ¡°If Sang Wan doesn¡¯t even know what a twelve division is, then she¡¯s nothing but just a joke!


    Tang Yuzhen was favored by the Zhuang family and was the guest of the house. It was obvious that there would be a high possibility for her to have cheated. To think that Old Mistress Zhuang would be so sly, Wang Shi winced and she quickly looked at Sang Wan. Seeing Sang Wan¡¯s calm and indifferent expression, she felt a little more assured.


    Tang Yuzhen also knew that the crowd would im that she had cheated. As such, she secretly looked at Sang Wan; so long as Sang Wan does not drop her brush, she would definitely not be the first to do so. Otherwise, the crowd would say that she had prepared in advance.


    The saying of the twelve divisions refers to the names of twelve different flowers: the garden peony, orchid, plum blossom, chrysanthemum, sweet osmanthus, lotus flower, tree peony, crabapple flower, sacred lily, wintersweet flower, azaleas, and the jade orchid. Each had a unique fragrance and are a national beauty. In the days of old, their fragrance could be smelled from far away, judged and admired from afar, but people dared not fondle and disrespect it. As a result, they could not help but gain the title of a division and was thus named the ¡°twelve division¡±.


    Those twelve types of flowers were often seen in the poetry rting to forests and were often used in discussions among the people. Tang Yuzhen should not find the topic difficult, but to win, the only options were to win in speed and handwriting!


    Sang Wan had already set her mind. She spread her white sheet of paper and used a jade paperweight to press onto the paper before holding onto the writing brush firmly and dipping it with ink. But before she started, she folded her sleeves up.


    Having seen so, Tang Yuzhen smiled. Holding onto her brush elegantly, she too also began.


    Both their brushes were flying across the paper. It was obvious that they both had made the same decision and at this point, a few of the missies had already returned to their seats to witness the two as theypete.


    The two stopped and ced their brushes down at almost the same time, which Old Mistress Zhuang could not help butugh, ¡°The two truly are quick-witted, but who will be better than the other!¡± And so, she ordered a servant to collect the two sheets of paper and show it in front of the crowd.


    At the same time, Old Mistress Zhuang went on andugh with a smile, ¡°For almost the whole day, all I had heard was your mother-inw boasting about you being extraordinary, and after this contest, it truly was surprising!¡± The unspoken implication was that the test was simple for Tang Yuzhen and thus she was not surprised about her skill at all.


    ¡°Old Mistress Zhuang, you tter.¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Wang Shi, however, did not wish to hear such words and she grunted, ¡°My daughter-inw is excellent and likes to keep a low profile. Old Mistress Zhuang not knowing is not a surprise either!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhuangughed and spoke no more as she went to look at the poetry with everyone else.


    There were a dozen poetry, all done by the seven to eight missies. Thedies only went to liven the atmosphere, praising each poetry one after another but could not tell whether they were of a great quality or a poor one.


    Those whose rtionship with the tworge business families were neutral and uded both poetry equally; for those who were of better rtions with the Zhuang family or were jealous of the Shi family uded Tang Yuzhen¡¯s poetry to be better; there were also those who liked Sang Wan¡¯s temperament and wish for a better rtionship with the Shi family, and they uded Sang Wan¡¯s poetry. At this very moment, there was still no clear winner.


    But even with the different opinions and their different objectives, the crowd could not help but look at Sang Wan in admiration and was jealous of her. Before, they had felt that the Sang family climbing onto the Shi family through a marriage was a huge deal that was too ambitious, but at this point, they felt that the Sang family maiden had some extraordinary aspects. Those families whose daughters were candidates to be Shi Fengju¡¯s wife were finally a little convinced of Sang Wan¡¯s capabilities.


    ¡°Old Mistress Li is educated in poetry and has a fair judgement. Why don¡¯t we listen to what Old Mistress Li has to say?¡± A shout came from among thedies.


    Old Mistress Li was the wife of Qingzhou¡¯s senior provincial government official. Having her judge would be the most fair after all. The crowd smiled and their eyes fixed onto her.


    The Shi family and Zhuang family were huge households and had a close rtionship wtih the Li family. Mistress Li was instantly ced in a difficult position and sheughed it off, ¡°How should I put it! In my eyes, both poetry are great! It must¡¯ve been a coincidence that both poetry about chrysanthemums were equally good. As for Miss Tang¡¯s plum blossom poetry,pared to Young Mistress Shi¡¯s lotus poetry, is a littlecking behind. And looking at Young Mistress Shi¡¯s lowercase strokes that are gentle and elegant, it shows that much effort must have been put into practicing, am I right?¡±


    Upon hearing so, the crowd immediately went topare the handwriting on both sheets of poetry. Indeed, they could immediately tell that Sang Wan¡¯s writing was neat and tidy and the sizes of each characters were equal, giving afortable visual perception. On the other hand, Tang Yuzhen had not paid much attention to elegance when it came to putting pressure on the brush. There were also ces which were either too dry or had too much ink. When dipping the brush into the ink again, there was ack of carefulness and many tiny ck spots could be seen, which was extremely ring on the white sheet of paper.


    The crowd could not help butugh in agreement, ¡°Old Mistress Li¡¯s observation truly is on point, Young Mistress Shi¡¯s handwriting is no doubt superb!¡±


    Sang Wan was modest to the end, but her heart felt somewhat disturbed. Those set of characters were in actual fact practiced during the time she had when she was all alone by herself in her previous life in order to let those listless days go by one after another! Looking back at her previous life, she felt particrly sad, but at the same time, it secretly intensified her fighting spirit: In this life, everything must change! Everything must no longer be the same!

 Chapter 54 (V2): Abacus

    <h4>Chapter 54 (V2): Abacus</h4>


    Wang Shi was pleased and proudly nced at Old Mistress Zhuang in the eye.


    Feeling discontented and helpless at the same time, Old Mistress Zhuang remained silent. However, the one to speak up was Old Mistress Li and she smiled, ¡°Staying true to the facts, I may have strayed a little on my judgement. From the way I see it, why don¡¯t we send the two¡¯s best and most appreciated work to the gentlemen in the house and have them do the judging? How about it?¡±


    In many households, there would be two or three gentlemen who were knowledgeable in the world of poetry. The proposed idea to kick the ball out by Old Mistress Li was so as not to offend either party.


    Wang Shi was alreadypletely satisfied, for at least the Shi family marrying such a daughter-inw in would not have any dissatisfaction from the public anymore. And so, why not be generous? Wang Shi grinned, ¡°No need for this to be so troublesome! Miss Tanging here from afar isn¡¯t easy, so we¡¯ll let her have the perfume!¡±


    A bottle of Western perfume may seem rare to find for other families, but for the Shi family, obtaining one by their own means was nothing! Something like that bottle was not very important to Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi was full of generosity, but little did she know that her words were of a great insult to Old Mistress Zhuang and Miss Tang; as if they were really contesting for the bottle of perfume!


    Miss Tang had eaten a loss for being a guest from afar. Although her heart felt extremely embarrassed, it would be inconvenient for her to say anything. As such, Old Mistress Zhuang became the one to speak, ¡± Ai, that cannot be the case! How can we change what has been set? The perfume¡¯s a small matter!¡± With that said, she immediately ordered for the four chosen poetry to be sent out.


    ¡°Really, taking my kindness for granted!¡± Wang Shi became angry and snapped.


    Seeing the gunpowder in the air, the crowd quicklyughed and greeted the event as the past.


    Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s sister-inw, Old Mistress Jiang, was somewhat annoyed. With a shallow smile, she sneered, ¡°If I may say, it¡¯s not as if the Shi family¡¯s young master is taking the imperial examinations, so isn¡¯t these poetry somewhat irrelevant to Young Mistress Shi! The Shi business is so huge, so shouldn¡¯t it need someone to help in managing the household? Oh, I forgot. I heard that Old Mistress Shi let her niece, who grew up in the household, do it instead! No wonder the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress had so much time on her hands to read poetry because there was someone to carry all that huge burden!¡±


    Old Mistress Jiang¡¯s words caused the crowd to turn silent in an instant.


    Gu Fangzi and Shi Fengju being lovey-dovey was something known throughout the whole of Qingzhou city. What Old Mistress Jiang did was inciteful, with words of sarcasm. A string of words which brought about ridicule to Sang Wan for being ignorant, and also Old Mistress Wang for putting up an act; to boast about Sang Wan when she obviously valued her niece, Gu Fangzi, more!


    That was a thorn in Wang Shi¡¯s heart. Hearing those words, she was dismayed and furious. However, she knew not how to cover up, but subconsciously went to look at how her daughter-inw would react.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was furious and embarrassed. Saying that she did not me her mother-inw was impossible. It had been clear that the engagement had been set between her and Shi Fengju, yet she had let the rtionship between Shi Fengju and Gu Fangzi continue, and to even go as far as encouraging them!


    But the die had already been cast, and what had already been established could neither be changed by her, nor expressed by her. Seeing Wang Shi giving her a nce, Sang Wan felt even more embarrassed and awkward. How she wished she could cry this bitterness away.


    ¡°Mother-inw is kind and had epted Cousin Fangzi into the household since young. So how is that wrong? My cousin-inw is entirely grateful and wishes to return the favor, isn¡¯t it normal for humans? As for how I am, what has that got to do with my cousin-inw? Old Mistress Jiang¡¯s words truly puzzle me!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s tone was gentle, but one could feel the chill in those words as her brilliant eyes looked at Old Mistress Jiang. There was no anger or unting of power as she disyed her virtuousness.


    Old Mistress Jiang was pushed to a corner by her manner. Feeling a little guilty, she remained her strong front and she sneered, ¡°Although you may not understand, that doesn¡¯t mean your mother-inw doesn¡¯t!¡±


    Wang Shi snapped angrily, ¡°I don¡¯t understand too! Sang Wan is our Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw, and will be the person in-charge of our household in the future! This fact will never change! Old Mistress Jianging at us with such provocative words, just what is the meaning of that?¡±


    Sang Wan quickly smiled, ¡°Mother, I think Old Mistress Jiang is only being concern, worrying that your daughter-inw isn¡¯t virtuous enough and that she¡¯ll not be able to be a support for her husband! She¡¯s worried about our Shi family! Do not worry, Old Mistress Jiang, for Sang Wan will not let you worry any longer! The Shi family being the head of riches would continue in the long run! Managing the household, and managing the business records, Sang Wan dare not unt her little knowledge of it!¡±


    ¡°Oh? Other than writing poetry, does the Shi family¡¯s young mistress know how to use the abacus as well? Could you let us witness it for a bit!¡± Old Mistress Jiang saw Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s darkened face, and could not help but be secretly angry. How she wished Sang Wan would embarrass herself in front of the crowd, exposing that ugly self; just like the saying to kill the snake and show the stick.


    ¡°That¡¯s it! If even using the abacus is difficult, then you¡¯re not fit to be the Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw! Don¡¯t you say so, Sister Wang?¡± Old Mistress Zhuangughed.


    Wang Shi did not speak, and she nced at Sang Wan.


    ¡°Then please, may I have Old Mistress Zhuang bring me an abacus! Sang Wan hopes not to disappoint everyone here!¡± Sang Wan remained fearless and smiled.


    Mistress Zhuang waspletely sure of herself that Sang Wan had never used the abacus even in the Sang family. She smiled and nodded before ordering a servant to bring it over immediately. Secretly, she sneered: Let¡¯s just see how long you can continue running that mouth of yours.


    The servant not only brought the oiled abacus but also a roll of business ounts and smiled, ¡°This servant pondered for a while and thinks that the abacus has to be used together with the business ounts to calcte the records. Without the business ounts, there¡¯s no way to use the abacus, right? Fortunately, here¡¯s the ount forst month¡¯s garden. Our Old Mistress has already counted it a few days ago, so why don¡¯t, Young Mistress Shi use this for practice!¡±


    ¡°How dare you decide all that on your own!¡± Mistress Zhuang red at the servant but she quickly turned to Sang Wan and gave a false smile, ¡°Sang Wan, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan is more than happy to!¡± Sang Wan did not raise a brow. Receiving the abacus and the roll of business ounts, she sat down and set the beads to zero before spreading the book open on her left hand. With a hand to flip the book, her five fingers on her other hand flew into action, like a dexterous swallow in the sky, the fingers moved the beads in the abacus up and down, making a crisp sound. Her performance was smooth and skilled, with an unspeakable elegance.


    The audience were all in a daze as they silently watched the pair of clever hands without blinking an eye.


    Old Mistress Zhuang was also taken aback. She was different from Wang Shi; Wang Shi waszy and there was nothing she had to care about, letting matters in the household be handled by the household department and Gu Fangzi while the outer matters were handled by the head servants who report directly to her son. On the other hand, Old Mistress Zhuang was someone who likes to keep herself busy. Many of the business ounts had to be handed up to her and verified by her personally. Now, seeing Sang Wan¡¯s performance, she knew absolutely that she was truly skilled!


    ¡°In total, three thousand six hundred and seventy-two silvers. Am I right?¡± Following a crisp sound, Sang Wan¡¯s fingers made a clear halt and she rested them on the ground.


    The servant took a look at the paper in his hand and became dumbfounded. As for Mistress Zhuang, she had remembered every single cleared ount book and had no need to refer to a paper to know that the figures were correct.


    ¡°Young Mistress Shi truly is amazing!¡± Old Mistress Zhuang could not help but sigh. She subconsciously took a glimpse at Tang Yuzhen and her heart felt a sense of disappointment.


    Her son was not as bad as Shi Fengju, would his wife then have to suffer under Shi Fengju¡¯s daughter-inw then?


    The women rumbled with praise. Many of them knew at least how to count a few of the business ounts, and even for those who had never fiddled with the abacus, they would have seen others or their own daughter-inw do it before. However, they had never seen anyone who could use the abacus so beautifully like Sang Wan did; so to say, it was extremely mesmerizing!


    The smile on Wang Shi¡¯s face could not be any broader. Even she had not known that Sang Wan was actually so gifted! In the future when the Shi family belongs to her, she could finally be at ease! It seems, that old mister¡¯s eyes really could not bepared with!


    The crowd saw Old Mistress Zhuang and Old Mistress Jiang¡¯s face turn dark and awkward, and they quickly tried to brighten up the atmosphere. They were, after all, in the Zhuang household; having the host ufortable was uncalled for.


    Not too far away, behind a bush of hibiscus flowers, a tall and handsome young man with dark hair, who wore a robe, gazed listlessly at the gathering.


    That man was the only child of the Zhuang couple, Zhuang Weixian.


    Moreover, him standing there was not his intention, but his mother, Old Mistress Zhuang, who strongly urged him to do so. His mother had never backed down from getting him married. Instead, the more she battled, the more courageous she got and today, she had him stand here to observe Miss Tang.


    He knew that after the banquet was over, his mother would be in good spirits and enraptured to ask him how Miss Tang was; whether he liked her; and whether he was satisfied. And without even waiting for his answer, she would overly praise Miss Tang as if no one would be greater than her!


    Zhuang Weixian watched for a while and earnestly listened to the few sentences picked out by the women as they judged the poetries. Savoring the words, he could not help but nod a few times for some of the poetry sounded somewhat not too bad, just that he could not identify whether it was done by Miss Tang or the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress. Pressing his conscious, he would rather believe it was the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress who did it. Who asked his mother to try forcing Miss Tang to his side?


    The incidentter startled him a little and his brows could not help but knit together. He felt that his mother and aunt were going a little too overboard! He could not bear to watch the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress anymore and his heart secretly prayed that her heart was strong enough. She must absolutely not cry; otherwise, the Zhuang family¡¯s face would be thrown for being unkind!


    Of course, even if the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress were to cry, Zhuang Weixian also felt that it was meant to happen because which woman could endure such humiliation? He was clear of the rtionship between Shi Fengju, that b*stard, and his cousin. And what¡¯s more, that b*stard would oftenin to him right before his marriage about the Sang family¡¯s Missy and his 120% resentment and hostility towards her. For that fact, Zhuang Weixian could empathize with him because even though their circumstances were different, he knew that in a certain sense, they were no different! He knew having a woman to truly love him was not easy and was even more sure that the Sang family¡¯s Missy, after entering the family, must have had a miserable life. Shi Fengju thatd, seemingly gentle, but often hurt others without knowing! For that, he shall be watched closely, and the day when he suffers shall be the day a fatal blow will be delivered upon him!


    And because of that, the Sang family¡¯s Missy¡¯s days must have definitely not been great! And now, to be humiliated in front of so many people, he touched his heart and understood that even enduring might be too difficult.


    But unexpectedly, what came after surprised him entirely! The Sang family¡¯s Missy was able to remain calm and gentle. What was even more stunning was the way her hand used the abacus, absolutely amazing!


    To be able to use the abacus so beautifully, he had never witnessed anything like that before.

 Chapter 55 (V2): A Successful Return

    <h4>Chapter 55 (V2): A Sessful Return</h4>


    ¡°That b*stard, living in plenty without appreciating!¡± Zhuang Weixianughed and shook his head, again and again in envy, jealousy, and sympathy.


    ¡°Who are you? Why are you here?¡± Still having the smile on his face, his eyes suddenly met with a woman who stood in front of him while staring at him with eyes full on alert.


    Zhuang Weixian could not help but be startled and blurted out, ¡°And who might you be?¡± The girl did not belong to the Zhuang household.


    She was Liu Ya. The mistresses and missies had the Zhuang family¡¯s own servants to serve them while they enjoyed themselves in the garden of flowers. Those servants who followed their masters over were led by the Zhuang family¡¯s head servant to y nearby. Liu Ya identally spotted a person by the flower patch, and with a moment of curiosity, she went and approach him. Seeing that this person¡¯s eyes were peered towards the mistresses and missies in the garden, and had a foolish smile on his face, Liu Ya became furious.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter!¡± Liu Ya raised her chin and spoke contemptuously, ¡°You lecher, how dare you peek here! If the mistresses and missies knew about it, they¡¯ll be sure to expose you! Although your looks may seem ordinary, but I¡¯m sure your heart is filthy! Leave quickly, otherwise, I¡¯ll call for people!¡±


    Lecher? Ordinary? Filthy heart? Zhuang Weixian could not help butugh. If his mother were to hear this, how furious would she be?


    However, he was feeling angry too!


    ¡°Do I really look that ordinary?¡± Zhuang Weixian grunted and rubbed his chin. His appearance shouldn¡¯t be far from Shi Fengju, right? No, definitely better than him by a little!


    Shameless!


    Liu Ya red sternly at him and spoke impatiently, ¡°Who cares about how you look, leave quickly! Otherwise, I¡¯ll really call for someone! And when that happens, don¡¯t me me if you get battered like a pig head! You have a vibe that reeks of books, so know when to retreat!¡±


    Zhuang Weixianughed, but suddenly wanted to y a jest and he smiled. Taking two steps back from Liu Ya, he gave a greeting and spoke, ¡°I shall not hide it from you, but I¡¯m currently lost in this area. Just now, if I were any rude towards you, I hope that you will forgive me! I wonder, do you know the way around here?¡±


    His sudden transformation startled Liu Ya and she quickly took two steps back before stuttering, ¡°This, I, I¡¯m not someone from this household. Even I do not know my way around. Where do you wish to go? Maybe I can help you ask someone who knows the way?¡±


    Zhuang Weixian secretlyughed and he looked up to see three words ¡°Lin Feng Pavillion¡± inscribed on a board which hung above the west pavilion and he spoke casually, ¡°Young Master Zhuang has arranged to meet me at Lin Feng Pavillion.¡±


    Liu Ya was surprised for a moment and squinted at him, ¡°Are you really looking for Lin Feng Pavillion?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Zhuang Weixian nodded lightly. Enduring theugher within him, he sighed, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that the garden in this household is so huge that I¡¯ve been trying to find it for quite some time already!¡±


    Liu Ya grumbled and spoke bitterly at him, ¡°Stop peeking at those missies in your free time! Isn¡¯t that Lin Feng Pavillion? Those threerge words, don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t see it!¡±


    This time, it was Zhuang Weixian who was surprised. Having his joke exposed made him somewhat embarrassed. Giving a dryugh, he stammered a little, ¡°You, you can read!¡±


    Liu Ya grunted, ¡°Yes! Is reading so amazing? Don¡¯t think that because you¡¯ve read a book or two, you can be so unrestrained! You think others are foolish? I think you¡¯re certainly not a good person!¡± With that, she quickly nced behind him. That attracted Zhuang Weixian to turn his head to the back, and taking this chance, she quickly turned and ran away.


    Fortunately, no one had spotted her! Otherwise, if someone were to see her together with a man in the Zhuang family¡¯s garden, it wasn¡¯t just her face, but her Old Mistress and Young Mistress who would be put to shame!


    Seriously! Why did she have to be so curious about someone else¡¯s business!


    Zhuang Weixian understood he had been fooled and he turned back again, only to see the back of the girl as she ran. He could not help but smile while shaking his head. He was wise himself, but to be fooled by a girl, seriously! Just which family¡¯s girl did she belong to; that courage of hers was not small.


    Seeing that the mistresses and missies were all getting up, he supposed they were heading to Yuhua Pavilion to watch a y. With that, Zhuang Weixian understood that the task assigned to him was somewhatplete and he brushed his sleeves before turning to leave.


    Now at where the mistresses and missies were, Sang Wan¡¯s agile hands to calcte using the abacus stunned many and while the crowd were praising her, the four poetry were returned just in time after the judging by the few gentlemen. Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s eyes glistened again with huge hope that Tang Yuzhen could emerge victorious. But who would have known that all three men would choose Sang Wan¡¯s work unanimously? Old Mistress Zhuang forced a smile as she rewarded the bottle of perfume personally to Sang Wan. ¡°Really, you¡¯ve made us fully convinced of your ability! This perfume is truly meant for you! Come, try it a little to see if it¡¯s of your taste!¡±


    Sang Wan, in both lifetimes had never seen a western perfume. However, she had read a novel that had some rtion to it. It was aedy novel. It depicted a man, whocked knowledge in goods, was given a bottle of western perfume. He wanted to have a whiff of it by pouring some out, but he did not know how to because of how cleverly the bottle was constructed. Seeing that there was a hole, the content could not be poured out, but only by pressing the lid would the nozzle squirt a fog of perfume. That man tried for a long time but nothing came out, and as a result was teased by others.


    It was obvious that Old Mistress Zhuang wanted to make fun of her.


    Sang Wan, being cautious, knew that for things she was unfamiliar with, it was best not to disy her unfamiliarity in front of Old Mistress Zhuang. With that, sheughed, ¡°How can such an exquisite thing be bad? Old Mistress Zhuang, you jest! Sang Wan likes it very much, thank you, Old Mistress Zhuang, for your generosity!¡± Without waiting for Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s response, Sang Wan kept the bottle and returned well-disciplined beside Wang Shi.


    Old Mistress Zhuang smiled and spoke a few sentences politely before giving up.


    Wang Shi¡¯s nervous heart was finally at ease. Speaking of the bottle, Shi Fengju had once bought one as a show of respect to her before. She, Nanny Jiang, Xiu Li, Xiu Chun, had a joyous time trying to figure out how to use it. The liquid could be seen inside the bottle, but could not be poured out from the hole. At the end, when Xiu Li that servant pressed somewhere in the right ce, the bottle sprayed and Xiu Chun was covered in the scent. That made her scream and the master, and servants, could not help butugh together!


    Sang Wan¡¯s whole family might not even be able to buy such a bottle of precious liquid, so there was no way she could have seen such a thing before. If things were to y by Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s words, then the Shi family would definitely beughed at by the crowd.


    A servant from Yuhua Pavilion came to report; the y was ready. Old Mistress Zhuang bottled up her mood and invited everyone to Yuhua Pavilion with a smile.


    Either intentionally or not, more people began to gather around Wang Shi and Sang Wan as they took the initiative to put themselves in a good light. It was clear that they had epted her as the woman to im the position of being the mistress of the Shi family.


    She had the intelligence and talent, no matter how capable Gu Fangzi was, there was no way she could exceed the Shi family¡¯s young mistress. Wang Shi, although having no intentions to intervene in any matters and also dotes her own niece, was no fool. Otherwise, she would not have insisted on the arranged marriage! It was visible that she would not allow a thing such as spoiling one¡¯s concubine and neglect one¡¯s wife to happen.


    In other words, Sang Wan¡¯s position in the family had been nailed to the wall! Taking advantage of a fledgling, who would soon be incharge of the household, would in the long run, make currying vor much easier!


    After entering Yuhua Pavilion, the crowd got seated modestly and a few mistresses went up to pick a y in unison. The curtains swung swiftly to a side and the y began with acting and vigorous singing. The atmosphere quickly turned for the better.


    All the way until evening when the sun was about to set in the West, the guests all left for home one after another. Old Mistress Zhuang smiled as she personally went to send them off, but the smile could be said to be somewhat a little forced.


    Back in the carriage, Wang Shi finally let out theughter she had been holding in. Just thinking about Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s defeated face made her unable to hide the happiness in her heart.


    ¡°Today must have tired our Sang Wan out!¡± Wang Shi grinned. The more she looked at Sang Wan, the more satisfied she was, and she spoke generously, ¡°These few**** have a good rest. No need toe and greet me! Whatever you wish to eat, just ask the kitchen to make, and whatever items you fancy, just have the housekeeper go and buy for you! Not saying anything, but money is not a problem in our house!¡±


    Sang Wan knew her mother-inw would say such a thing, and she quickly epted and gave her thanks.


    Who knew that the night before going to bed, Nanny Jiang hade again. Sang Wan did not expect someone toe at such an hour. Picking up a jade hairpin, she tidied her hair and don an autumn-colored outerwear before rushing out to invite Nanny Jiang in.


    Wang Shi, after returning home from Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s ce, could not stop praising Sang Wan in front of Nanny Jiang. Being well-knowledgeable, Nanny Jiang had already expected that Young Mistress would emerge victorious. Upon seeing Sang Waning out to wee her, she quickly smiled, ¡°Young Mistress, please head back quickly. You might catch a cold in this breezy night! This old servant isn¡¯t worthy of Young Mistress¡¯s ceremony!¡±


    Those polite words were only just for the heart to listen and not to be taken seriously. Sang Wan smiled and ordered a servant to bring a stool for Nanny Jiang to sit on. Tea was already served cleverly by Hong Ye, but Nanny Jiang was neither in a hurry to sit nor receive the tea. She gave her thanks and took out a box which was a foot long before smiling, ¡°This old servant was specially instructed by Old Mistress to send this box of supplements to Young Mistress. They¡¯re edible bird¡¯s nest which are extremely good for the body. Old Mistress said to have Young Mistress instruct her servants to prepare it every night before sleep! ¡°


    Sang Wan personally went to Nanny Jiang¡¯s side to receive it and she spoke gratefully, ¡°To have Mother-inw worry about such little things, I feel a little uneasy for not giving her my thanks personally! It¡¯s already veryte tonight, I¡¯ll go over tomorrow first thing in the morning to give my thanks to Mother-inw!¡±


    Nanny Jiangughed, ¡°No wonder Old Mistress said you¡¯re a very sensible one. Among thousands of individuals, none can bepared to you! Old Mistress said it¡¯s enough for you to ept it, no need to go over and thank her. Old Mistress sees you as a maiden, so there¡¯s no need to be so polite everytime! Old Mistress said that knowing you¡¯ve that heart was enough for her!¡±


    Sang Wan could only smile and settle back down before inviting Nanny Jiang to have some tea.


    Thinking that Nanny Jiang would just speak of a few words before leaving, it was unexpected that she would actually sit to have tea while conversing with Sang Wan. Lots of words that came out were all to praise Sang Wan, about how much Wang Shi values her daughter-inw, how much she cares for her, and much more. Sang Wan could only smile and respond appropriately.


    After finally sending Nanny Jiang off with a smile, Sang Wan returned to her chamber to have a rest. Liu Ya spread a mattress in front of the bed to apany Sang Wan.


    ¡°Young Mistress, tonight, Nanny Jiang sure spoke a lot!¡± As usual, the master and servant had to gossip a little before going to sleep. Liu Ya continued rambling on, ¡°Before, she doesn¡¯t even have that many words to say!¡±

 Chapter 56 (V2): A Bolt From The Blue

    <h4>Chapter 56 (V2): A Bolt From The Blue</h4>


    ¡°So you felt it too!¡± Sang Wan raised the cushion under her neck with an arm and gently sighed. Well, it was so obvious that anyone could detect!


    Liu Ya¡¯s eyes glistened and she pped with a smile, ¡°This servant understands now! It must be because Young Mistress fought to not make the Shi family lose face today, Old Mistress bes happy, and since Nanny Jiang did not treat you favorably, she hade to make it up to Young Mistress!¡±


    Sang Wan giggled and scolded with a smile, ¡°There I thought you following Nanny Li would make you grow up a little, but who knew you¡¯re still a foolish worm!¡±


    Under Nanny Li¡¯s earnest tuning, Liu Ya had gained much enlightenment. Although those enlightenments would often continue to apany her, she would have to speak of them with Nanny Li once in a while. Nanny Li would also praise her to show her appreciation. Her five senses, now heightened, was nowhere as close to Nanny Li in terms of perfection, but she was much better than before. Hearing what Sang Wan said, she was not entirely convinced and pouted, ¡°Young Mistress, could you give this servant a reason why this servant is foolish?¡±


    Sang Wan raised her chin a little to look at her in the eye before smiling, ¡°Nanny Jiang is an olddy who serves my mother-inw for her entire life and is one who is respected even by the young master. So long as she doesn¡¯t do anything out of line, the Shi family will be generous towards her and care for her until death. If that is so, why would she need to make up to me?¡±


    Liu Ya was startled and her mouth blurted, ¡°That¡¯s true. Her making up to you may also end up provoking Miss Gu! It makes no sense to for her to be so foolish as to stir up a storm¡ª¡ª ugh, Young Mistress, this servant has spoken too excessively...¡±


    A trace of loneliness pierced Sang Wan¡¯s heart, but she kept a smile and shook her head, ¡°You¡¯re right, it makes no sense for her to be this foolish...¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress,¡± Liu Ya, somewhat nervous, took the initiative and asked, ¡°Why don¡¯t, this servant help you inquire about it a little?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly rejected, ¡°The matters regarding Old Mistress¡¯s side is not something we can find out easily about. Don¡¯t act rashly!¡±


    Feeling a little awkward, Liu Ya quickly smiled, ¡°This servant will certainly not do it personally for wouldn¡¯t doing so cause trouble for Young Mistress? This servant can find it out through my godmother. Young Mistress, rest assured; in this household, there¡¯s nothing my godmother cannot obtain information about! Moreover, this servant warrants that no one will find out!¡±


    Liu Ya spoke very proudly without a trace of shame.


    ¡°That¡¯s a no too!¡± Sang Wan spoke firmly, ¡°Old Mistress is the young master¡¯s mother. Do you think Nanny Li would dare to do such a thing? What¡¯s more, I do not wish to trouble her! Don¡¯t you worry, if there really is something, Nanny Jiang would say it herself! There¡¯s no need for us to inquire!¡±


    Liu Ya¡¯s eyes widened in great disbelief as lots of question flooded into her mind, but Sang Wan just smiled and told her to sleep.


    On the next few days, Wang Shi disyed an unparalleled favor towards Sang Wan. Good products arrived one after another in the small garden: clothes and jewelry, beauty products, antique ornaments, disy jewelry, fresh fruits and snacks, trendy dishes, and so on.


    The crowd could see that Young Mistress was being doted. It was clear that she had shown who the future incharge the household would be!


    In Ning Garden, the members were busy adjusting to the improvements. Liu Ya, Zhide, and many others would asionally be fawned over by their peers wherever they went. The number of Missies and Mistresses who came to extend their greetings to Ning Garden also increased.


    Sang Wan treated all modestly which made all those present extremely happy, especially the Mistresses who found her interesting and would often praise her over the heaven!


    Wang Shi often sent gifts and messages, and the one to pass them was Nanny Jiang. Sang Wan politely weed her in an attempt to wait out before Nanny Jiang began to speak her mind. But who would have known that as the days went by, Nanny Jiang¡¯s smile became somewhat forced as the words continued to remain in her mouth.


    Sang Wan pondered, and after racking her head, she seemed to have somehow understood.


    Nanny Jiang would not speak, unless, she took the initiative to ask.


    Of course, asking Nanny Jiang would be useless. The one she should be asking would be Wang Shi.


    ¡°It has been some time since Sang Wan came to greet Mother. Mother, yourplexion has be better than before!¡± Today, Sang Wan dressed neatly before arriving at the main courtyard. With a pleasantugh, she greeted Wang Shi with a smile.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that so!¡± Wang Shi grinned, ¡°Mother is extremely happy. Having enough sleep and good food, it¡¯s natural that myplexion will improve! But it¡¯s such a pity,¡± Wang Shi pretended to give a sigh, ¡°recently, I¡¯m being bothered by something and I wish that it could be resolved as soon as possible. If that happens, then my heart can finally be at ease!¡±


    Sang Wan had originally wondered how she could lure her mother-inw to speak about the trouble, but who knew her mother-inw would be itching to get on with the subject.


    Seeing Nanny Jiang giving a signal with her eyes to the other servant girls to retreat, Sang Wan¡¯s expression became even more imposing. She rose and spoke to Wang Shi, ¡°Mother, why not speak with your daughter-inw about what¡¯s bothering you? Even if your daughter-inw does not have the power to solve it, saying it out will surely make your heart feel better!¡±


    When would Wang Shi ever pay any attention to Nanny Jiang¡¯s expression? The moment she heard so, she quickly blurted out, ¡°Sang Wan, it has something to do with you! To solve this, it all depends on you!¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Sang Wan was baffled.


    Wang Shi waved her hand and gestured to her to have a seat, before she smiled kindly and asked, ¡°Sang Wan, touch your heart and tell me. How am I treating you?¡±


    Hurriedly, Sang Wan was about to get up but was insisted by Wang Shi to remain seated. Sang Wan, without a choice, spoke while seated, ¡°Mother treats me well and is very thoughtful towards Sang Wan! Sang Wan is extremely grateful towards Mother and truly respects Mother!¡±


    ¡°Is that true?¡±


    ¡°It is! Sang Wan dare not tell lies!¡±


    ¡°En,¡± Wang Shi nodded in satisfaction and asked, ¡°What are your thoughts about Fangzi?¡±


    Listening to Wang Shi mentioning Gu Fangzi, Sang Wan¡¯s heart could not help but stiffen and she squeezed a smile from her neck, ¡°Cousin-inw Fangzi is... she¡¯s very good.¡±


    She was immediately greeted by a great sigh of relief from Wang Shi, ¡°You also think so? Then I¡¯m truly relieved! Sang Wan, it has already been quite some time since you were married into the family. Erm, that, ke, Fangzi and Fengju¡¯s rtionship, you¡ª¡ªshould be quite aware of it, am I right?¡±


    Sang Wan, in a moment of distress, spoke nervously as her heart pounded heavily, ¡°Mother, why did you bring this up...¡±


    The hardest words to leave the mouth had already left. With no scruples, Wang Shi spoke, ¡°Fangzi will certainly be married to Fengju as his concubine, this I shall not hide from you. Sang Wan, you won¡¯t have any wrong ideas right? You are a good woman, to follow and listen to your husband, I¡¯m sure there¡¯s no need for me to say since you already understood.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face was burning with embarrassment and distress, and with much effort, she managed to hold the thick mucus fluid in her nose. Speaking softly, she replied, ¡°Sang Wan understands. So long as Sang Wan¡¯s husband likes her, Sang Wan¡ª¡ªshall have no second opinion!¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good,¡± Listening to Wang Shi speak, Sang Wan¡¯s body gently quivered uncontrobly all of a sudden, as if covered in ice. There was a deep sense of fear, sending her a premonition that Wang Shi was about to speak of words she wished she would never have to listen, words which intertwine with the lingering nightmare of her previous life.


    Yet, Wang Shi¡¯s words steadily approached, ¡°From what I think, since Fangzi will sooner orter be marrying into the family, having it done early would have its benefit! At least the two of you can get acquainted as soon as possible and can get along better in the future! Moreover, Fangzi managing the household will be more justifiable! Sang Wan, what do you say?¡±


    What do I say? What can I say? Sang Wan remained silent. She fiercely bit her lips as she tried to control the tears from bursting through the dam. Humiliation, embarrassment, anger, unwillingness, and all sorts of helplessness came at her, choking her from the air she needed!


    She had only stepped into the Shi family as a member for no more than two months! And already, her mother-inw could not wait to have Gu Fangzi married in? Everyone only thought for Gu Fangzi, but who had ever thought about her?


    If the Shi family were not fond of the Sang family, then why had they not cancel the marriage? Is marrying her in a blessing for the Sang family, and she should be feeling forever grateful? The Sang family had never valued this marriage! Sang Wan herself had also never yearned to marry into a rich family¡¯s household before!


    At this moment, Sang Wan was angry at her mother-inw, Wang Shi; even if she knew that her mother-inw might have arrived at such a decision after Gu Fangzi¡¯s instigation.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Wang Shi thought that Sang Wan was somewhat concerned and she promised, ¡°You are married into the family officially as my son¡¯s wife. Your position as the young mistress will not be stolen from you!¡± In the future when Fangzi gives birth to a child and bes his wife, she would still have to respect you as an ¡°elder sister¡±!


    Wang Shi¡¯s tongue swung. A feeling that thosest words should not be spoken and she held them back before speaking, ¡°Fangzi, I¡¯ll teach her and have her respect you! You are knowledgeable, and she¡¯s clever; I¡¯m sure the both of you will be able to get along together! Fengju, being able to have both of you by his side, that¡¯s his blessing!¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Sang Wan endured the pain in her heart and secretly let everything out in her heart with a sigh before answering softly, ¡°Everything, shall go as Mother wishes!¡±


    Wang Shi turned a little hesitant, and she quickly swallowed, ¡°This matter, I think it¡¯s better for you to be the one who steps forwards! This will greatly show your virtuousness and generosity! Why don¡¯t, when Fengju returns, you take the initiative to mention it. When that timees, Fengju will surely have a form of admiration towards you! And he¡¯ll surely respect you even more! Don¡¯t you say?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s whole body felt cold. Her face had turned pale, and she was almost short of breath!


    Virtuousness? Generosity?!


    It was obviously a bitter fruit, yet forcing her to swallow it and smile to say it was good was already too much! Now, adding that it was for her own good?


    Sang Wan suddenly felt an unparalleled amount of disappointment and sorrow. She thought everything in this life would change, and a new development would happen. But she had not expected fate to have its own way to make a roundabout!


    Could it be that in this life, there was no way for her to escape the bleak and lonely life?


    No! She had already experienced the worst of the worse, throwing her face in this life was nothing! At most after a year, she would just escape to a ce far from here! She would not believe that there would not be a ce for her in this world.


    Even at death, her life this time around would not be as bad as her previous one.


    ¡°Mother is right, and Sang Wan understands! When Lord is back, Sang Wan shall speak with him personally.¡± Sang Wan held back the pain in her heart and spoke gently.


    ¡°Mother knew you can see the bigger picture! Unlike that certain someone who¡¯s sour and jealous and only knows how to create trouble!¡± Wang Shi was greatly overjoyed and could not help but held Sang Wan¡¯s hand before patting it gently. Raising her head, she looked at the partition andughed, ¡°Fangzi ah, you cane out now!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback and she looked up, only to see Gu Fangzi, dressed nicely in a begonia red dress, making her appearance shyly. Turning around, she called to her aunt as the edge of her lips slightly hooked upwards.

 Chapter 57 (V2): From Cousin-in-law to Sister

    <h4>Chapter 57 (V2): From Cousin-inw to Sister</h4>


    ¡°Good, good!¡± Wang Shi smiled. Pulling Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand. She patted it a few times before ordering Sang Wan to take a seat and indicating to Gu Fangzi, ¡°Quickly, step forward and give Sang Wan a greeting!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Gu Fangzi took two steps forward and kneeled in front of Sang Wan, ¡°Cousin Sang Wan!¡±


    Wang Shiughed and scolded, ¡°What Cousin Sang Wan! It should be ¡®Sister¡¯ now! It so happens that Fengju isn¡¯t home, so why don¡¯t you two take the time to get to know each other better!¡±


    Sang Wan could sense the bitterness in her heart, but her mouth had an even more bitter taste. Get to know each other while Shi Fengju¡¯s away? This was the kind of inexplicable words only her mother-inw could say.


    Gu Fengju became even more modest and she gazed at Sang Wan, ¡°Sister Sang Wan! Your younger sister gives you her greeting!¡±


    As their gaze met, Sang Wan could clearly see the thick ridicule and provocation in her eyes.


    But she smiled and removed the jade bracelet on her hand before inserting it into Gu Fangzi¡¯s wrist. Smiling softly, she spoke, ¡°Sister Fangzi, no need for too much of a greeting. I have nothing much prepared, but this little thing mustn¡¯t be discarded!¡±


    ¡°Why would I discard Sister Sang Wan¡¯s things? I¡¯ll definitely treat it like a precious instead!¡± Gu Fangzi giggled.


    Seeing that Sang Wan was treating Gu Fangzi kindly, Wang Shi was extremely d and let out a pleasantugh at Gu Fangzi, ¡°You¡¯re the one to gain! In the future, you¡¯d better respect Sang Wan properly! If I hear that Sang Wan suffered from any grievance, I¡¯ll definitely not let you off!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang, you¡¯re too doting towards Sister Sang Wan!¡± Gu Fangziughed, ¡°How would I dare to make Sister Sang Wan suffer from any grievance? This fact, Fangzi knows very well!¡± As she spoke of thetter sentence, her voice went a little low.


    ¡°I know you won¡¯t! But I¡¯m just telling you!¡± Seeing so, Wang Shi quickly added.


    Gu Fangzi then smiled, ¡°Aunt Wang¡¯s right, Fangzi needs to be taught! Isn¡¯t that so, Cousin Sang Wan? Oh, no, Sister!¡±


    Hearing that, Sang Wan smiled and nodded gently.


    Leaving Wang Shi¡¯s ce, Sang Wan could not help but looked up into the lofty blue sky. The sun shone through the thin white clouds and the wind blew gently against her face. The green trees gave a wonder shade and the flowers all eagerlypeting for brilliance. Sang Wan suddenly felt somewhat in a trance, not knowing whether she was in a dream or reality.


    Her posture remained elegant as she walked and only she knew, with every step she took the shallower it became, as if she was stepping on heaps of cotton.


    Looking up all of a sudden, she was greeted with the scene of a listless woman in Wanfang Pavilion who had a willow in her hands as she dazedly looked towards the pond. It was Second Young Mistress Shi. Sang Wan then realized that she had, unknowingly, been lured into the flower garden.


    After a moment of thought, she took a step forward and headed towards Wanfang Pavilion.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan! What a coincidence!¡± Second Young Mistress Shi heard a break of silence and looked ahead. Seeing Sang Wan, she quickly got up and weed her.


    ¡°What are you doing here all by yourself?¡± Sang Wan smiled, as she entered hand in hand with her.


    ¡°What else can I be doing other than dazing listlessly?¡± Second Young Mistress Shi smiled bitterly without an unspeakable loneliness and listlessness.


    Sang Wan did not expect her to be so straightforward, and was startled for a moment.


    Second Young Mistress Shi giggled and spoke, ¡°Sister Sang Wan won¡¯t me me for being rude, right? In this household, the person whom I can speak my heart out to is only you!¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t everything well? What happened?¡± Sang Wan asked.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s well? What¡¯s well?!¡± Second Young Mistress Shi sneered and spoke softly, ¡°I¡¯ve already secretly had someone sent a letter to my Father and Mother. I wish to go back there to stay for a while.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s breathing became sluggish as she felt a moment of sadness. In the Shi household, Second Young Mistress Shi¡¯s life was as bad as hers! But regardless of what happens, she had a home to return to at the very end! As for her? There was no home she could return to! Eldest Brother and Sister-inw already had it tough; she could not keep adding trouble to them!


    Second Young Mistress Shi smiled slightly again, ¡°In the eyes of the public, we were fortunate enough to be able to enter this household! But if we announced our bitterness, who would believe us? Hehe, we¡¯re actually very pitiful! If we tell others about it, no one would believe us and would call us ungrateful!¡±


    Second Young Mistress Shi choked a little and quickly swabbed her eyes, ¡°Really, my request is very simple, to be with my husband and live our everyday lives peacefully! Just that is nothing but a wild wish!¡±


    ¡°Sister!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s heart was moved and her eyes could not help but be moist as she patted on Second Young Mistress Shi¡¯s shoulder.


    Second Young Mistress Shi leaned her head gently to a side andughed embarrassedly, ¡°I wasn¡¯t myself just now, Sister Sang Wan won¡¯t fault me right?¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head and spoke softly, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be thinking too much. It¡¯s a day no matter whether you live it happily or not, so why be so hard on yourself? Calm down a little, Second Young Master Shi will surely return! I can¡¯t say for anything else, but since his parents are still here, just how long can he continue withouting back? That vigor of his will gradually begin to dissipate! Just think about it, that kind of woman that is now by his side is not one to keep. I¡¯m sure he has only lost his way!¡±


    Second Young Mistress Shi¡¯s expression rxed a little and she took a deep breath before smiling gratefully, ¡°Thank you, Sister Sang Wan. I do understand what you mean. Although I may not be a daughter from a literary family, I, a daughter of my Zhou family, has been educated since young! Since I¡¯ve already stepped into the Shi family as a member, whatever happens, I should just let it pass; why brood over it? But,¡± Second Young Mistress Shi gave a bitter smile, ¡°That mother-inw of mine¡ª¡ª¡±


    Second Young Mistress Shi, in the very end, did not dare to tantly talk bad about her mother-inw. All she could do was let out a sigh and remain silent, but without words, it was still fully understood.


    ¡°She always takes her anger out at me and mes me for everything, making me suffer either physically or mentally! I really cannot take it anymore! Sister Sang Wan, I really envy you. Even though there¡¯s that Gu Fangzi, but at least your husband and mother-inw treats you extremely well, and does not take their anger out at you!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned pale and she barely forced a smile as she spoke gently, ¡°We each have our own difficulties to face which aren¡¯t worth mentioning!¡± Envy of her? Hearing so made Sang Wan unsure whether tough or to cry. So even she had someone who envies her! But if Second Young Mistress Shi knew that Gu Fangzi would soon be marrying into the Shi family, and if she knew of her and Shi Fengju¡¯s actual rtionship, then maybe she would not envy her anymore!


    At least, unlike her, Second Young Mistress Shi had something to hope for.


    While the two were chatting, a short-haired maidservant wearing a blood red top and a white skirt came rushing over, and she spoke anxiously, ¡°Second Young Mistress, Second Old Mistress asks why you aren¡¯t back yet, please return quickly!¡±


    Second Young Mistress Shi nced towards the maidservant and spoke weakly with a cold face, ¡°Alright! You may go back first!¡±


    The maidservant hesitated for a moment, but seeing that Second Young Mistress Shi had no intentions to follow her back, she agreed and returned first.


    Having seen Second Old Mistress Shi had called for someone to urge Second Young Mistress Shi, Sang Wan sensed that she should take her leave. However, Second Young Mistress Shi held onto her arm and was reluctant to part from her. ¡°Sister Sang Wan, once more, can you stay and talk with me?¡±


    ¡°But¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, just for a little while longer!¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Sang Wan could not bare to refuse Second Young Mistress Shi who was making such a heartfelt request and she nodded her head.


    Not long after, Second Old Mistress Shi, along with two or three maidservants, stormed over angrily and shouted, ¡°I¡¯d like to see what you¡¯re doing, to even dare ignore my words! I¡¯ve already called for you three to four times already! In which household did the position of a daughter-inw rose above a mother-inw!¡±


    Second Young Mistress Shi quickly took two steps back and hid behind Sang Wan before defending herself, ¡°I was talking with my sister-inw! What did you want me for?¡±


    Witnessing her hiding behind Sang Wan¡¯s back, Second Old Mistress Shi dared notpete in words, and just screamed angrily at the top of her lungs, ¡°Enough, enough! You, get here now! Am I a tiger who will eat you up!¡±


    Second Young Mistress Shi, nervous and frightened at the same time, came up with several excuses to refuse the order as she held onto Sang Wan¡¯s arm tightly. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll head back soon, I¡¯ll head back soon! I, I¡¯m not afraid of you, you¡¯re also not a tiger!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± A gust of anger blew into Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s mind. The embarrassment fueled her anger and she shouted angrily as she ran forward to seize Second Young Mistress Shi. Second Young Mistress Shi finally let go of Sang Wan and shriek in surprise as she ran to hide numerous times.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart had a faint feeling of something that was about toe, but before she had the time to deeply ponder about it, a scream could be heard which followed by a ssh! Second Young Mistress Shi had fallen into the pond!


    ¡°Help! Save me!¡± Second Young Mistress Shi sank and floated as she beat the water frantically, sending water sshing all around her.


    ¡°That, that!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s face became pale. Her legs immediately turned jelly and she fell to the ground. The maidservants too, were also startled and they stood rooted to the ground.


    ¡°Quickly, quickly call for someone, call for someone!¡± Sang Wan ordered loudly.


    The maidservants finally woke from their daze and one ran shouting for help while the other helped Second Old Mistress Shi up on her feet.


    Sang Wan felt helpless, and her face had also turned pale! Watching Second Old Mistress Shi ncing straight at her and moving closer to her, her face could not help but turn even more pale.


    ¡°The first family¡¯s daughter-inw!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi stared straight into her eyes as a stiff smile squeezed onto her pale face¡ª¡ª


    Sang Wan¡¯s lips quivered a little and she could not help but take a few steps back.


    ¡°Second Aunt, Sister Sang Wan!¡± a voice could be hearding from the side of the rockery.


    Sang Wan and Second Old Mistress Shi immediately looked towards the direction and saw Shi Lian and a servant standing in a daze. In Shi Lian¡¯s hand were the flowers which she had picked.


    ¡°My niece!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi quickly called out.


    But Shi Lian had a horrified look on her face when she looked at her. Giving out a soft cry, she ran off together with the maidservant. ¡°My niece, my niece,e back!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi frantically called out, but Shi Lian would not listen!


    Sang Wan secretly heaved a sigh of relief. With thest of her energy, she leaned herself against a pir of the pavillion with a back full of cold sweat.


    Second Young Mistress Shi was quickly rescued and carried back. The second family was once again turned into chaos and Wang Shi went over to have a look. She called for Second Old Master Shi and the two of them had a long talk. Second Old Master Shi returned and threw his temper at his wife, scolding her severely. The chaos in the house then worsened.


    ¡°This servant wasn¡¯t good enough, this servant shouldn¡¯t have left! Thankfully, Young Mistress is alright, otherwise¡ª¡ª¡± In Ning Garden, Liu Ya spoke with fear.


    ¡°It has nothing to do with you, so don¡¯t me yourself!¡± Sang Wan shook her head and smiled. It was her who wished to take a walk all by herself, which was why she sent Liu Ya away.


    ¡°Thank you, Young Mistress,¡± Liu Ya gratefully looked into Sang Wan¡¯s eyes, and seeing that herplexion had not recovered, she smiled and supported her, ¡°Young Mistress, you must have been scared, right? Why don¡¯t you lie down and rest while this servant goes and have someone brew a bowl of Anshen soup?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded before lying on an expensive couch, with an embroidered nket covering all the way up to her chest.


    She was indeed stunned. Second Young Mistress Shi had probably decided to cause trouble on this day a long time ago. It was clear that she had wanted to provoke Second Old Mistress Shi, and coincidentally, Sang Wan had walked by and was thus used to drag her time. However, Sang Wan did not me her. After all, she did so ¡°conveniently¡±, and had never plotted to use her in the beginning.

 Chapter 58 (V2): Second Young Mistress Shi Returns Home

    <h4>Chapter 58 (V2): Second Young Mistress Shi Returns Home</h4>


    What really scared her was Second Old Mistress Shi. If not for Shi Lian and her servant appearing at the scene, Second Old Mistress Shi would surely make her be the scapegoat! At that time, the other three maidservants present were all under her, and sealing their mouth would be effortless! Shi Lian¡¯s appearance at the scene made her uncertain whether she had seen it or not, and thus, Sang Wan was let off!


    Sang Wan simply could not imagine, how Wang Shi would think if it were her who ¡®pushed¡¯ Second Old Mistress Shi into the pond, and Gu Fangzi would definitely make a huge fuss about it! After all, Second Old Mistress Shi held no grudge against her and she would not want to point a de at her. Even so, there were no excuses that could be made other than her being careless. But such an excusecked concreteness which would require the listeners to use their imagination.


    After today, she would absolutely never return to the flower garden. And even if she had to, there must at least be someone from her side! Sang Wan secretly thought to herself.


    In no more than two days, Second Young Mistress Shi¡¯s mother and sister-inw arrived at the Shi family¡¯s household. Seeing her family¡¯s own daughter lying on the bed in distraught, Old Mistress Zhou felt extremely sad and cried while pointing usations. The Zhou family¡¯s daughter-inw was also a good one,forting her mother-inw, while also pointing her usations. The mother-inw and daughter-inw then scolded Second Old Master Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi until their faces turned red with embarrassment. In the end, Wang Shi had toe forward to mediate, saying a few good words to appease Old Mistress Zhuo, before using her authority as Old Master Shi¡¯s wife to scold the second family. Only then did Old Mistress Zhou finally kept her tears reluctantly.


    In a matter of course, Old Mistress Zhou demanded to have their daughter returned home to recuperate. Immediately, Second Old Mistress Shi because anxious and disagreed strongly. Having a son who ran away with a taverndy was already embarrassing enough. Now to have her daughter-inw return to recuperate, just what would the public say about them!


    Was there any reason for Old Mistress Zhou to take into ount Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s fear? She then beganining about her own daughter¡¯s grievances again, and questioned when her son-inw would be back. Second Old Mistress Shi was at a loss for words and could only watch as Old Mistress Zhou ordered her servants to pack her daughter¡¯s things. On the same day, together with her daughter, they left the Shi household.


    Sang Wan heard it all from Liu Ya and could not help but envy Second Young Mistress Shi secretly. At the very least when she returned, Second Old Mistress Shi would no longer dare to treat her like before.


    There was no such thing as a wall that could not be prated. Originally, the news about Gu Fangzi marrying in was not supposed to be publicly announced until Sang Wan took the initiative to mention it upon Shi Fengju¡¯s return. However, in less than twenty days, the members in the household, from top to bottom, had somehow already knew of it.


    Gu Fangzi met with Wang Shi and seeked for forgiveness, saying that when her father was in the household at that time, she should not have disclosed it to him for she did not think that he would openlye at her aunt for betrothal gifts so shamelessly until everyone in the household knew. She also apologized for not being careful and identally calling her cousin-inw ¡°Sister¡±!


    Wang Shi never had any expectations of Gu Jin¡¯s mouth. Gu Fangzi revealing it to him was only in hopes that he would stop froming over, but who knew it would have the opposite effect?


    Wang Shi had nothing left to say and sighed, ¡°Enough! Since this matter is already known throughout, there¡¯s no need to hide it anymore! Prepare what is needed to be prepared! When Fengju returns, we¡¯ll just carry it out and end it without any moreplications!¡±


    Gu Jin¡¯s ruckus was getting from bad to worst, and Wang Shi was struggling toe to deal with him. What she did not know was that everything was plotted by Gu Fangzi, to force her to make an early decision.


    Gu Fangzi felt perfect happiness, although her face showed a sense of gratitude as she spoke well-behaved to let her aunt be the one to decide!


    Wang Shi smiled and nodded before having someone call for Sang Wan to discuss.


    Sang Wan sneered in her heart. Of course, Gu Fangzi would certainly not be willing to let her do the favor for Shi Fengju, and not let her have the opportunity to show her ¡°generosity and virtuousness!¡±. She had already expected a possibility of this arrangement being leaked.


    Nevermind, sooner orter, things would still end up the same! However, if Gu Fangzi thinks she would just sit idly, then she was wrong!


    Sang Wan face wore a natural smile and spoke gently, ¡°Mother, there¡¯s no need to worry as this isn¡¯t the first time our Shi family has taken a concubine in! Everything will go ordingly with the customs! Although with the amount of time left, preparations may be done hastily, but I¡¯m sure the difficulty isn¡¯t huge and a certain standard will be guaranteed!¡±


    Hearing those words, Gu Fangzi¡¯s face darkened a little.


    She was Shi Fengju¡¯s sweetheart, her aunt¡¯s blood niece, and also someone who grew up in the Shi household where everything was now under her control! She, Gu Fangzi, how could she be put the same as other concubines out there?


    Wang Shi was surprised for a moment and seemed to have heard that those gentle words from Sang Wan did not seem quite right. But the thought of wanting to point it out was covered by the thought that she was just overthinking a little too much.


    ¡°What you said¡ª¡ªisn¡¯t wrong,¡± Wang Shi hesitated for a moment before speaking, ¡°Our Shi family has many servants, no matter the time, this is not something that cannot be aplished.¡±


    ¡°Like Mother said!¡± Sang Wan smiled, ¡°Our Shi family is one who follows custom. Even if time is of the essence, we¡¯re still one to follow it, otherwise, our reputation will be joked upon!¡±


    ¡°Yes! Yes!¡± Wang Shi loved listening to such words and could not help but smile as she nod numerously.


    With that, the foundation of the matter was settled! Just an ordinary setting when receiving the concubine! Gu Fangzi gritted her teeth angrily and could not help but regret a little.


    After all, she was not in the position to mention any requests. Gu Fangzi could not help but think to herself if her big cousin were here, she could just privately tell him whatever¡¯s been kept in her heart!


    She secretly felt a sense of regret for pushing the marriage. But thinking about it, her big cousin? He even wished for her to ¡°believe¡± in him until god knows which monkey year it may be! Compared to that, it was better ept the benefits now than to call quits!


    Sang Wan thenughed, ¡°Although the household had always been managed by Sister Fangzi, something like her own marriage shouldn¡¯t be handled by herself! If word got out, it¡¯ll be terrible! Mother, if you believe in Sang Wan, Sang Wan shall lend a helping hand!¡±


    ¡°Good! Good!¡± Before Gu Fangzi could refuse, Wang Shi was pleased and nodded again and again. She could not help but smile at Sang Wan, ¡°My child, Mother was worried that your heart might hold some ill intentions! But to think you are so unexpectedly generous and virtuous! Then, for this matter, I shall leave it to you¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°That wouldn¡¯t be good, right!¡± Gu Fangzi anxiously spoke without care, ¡°Sister Sang Wan has never done it before, will she be able to do it? If the slightest mistake were made, wouldn¡¯t our Shi family lose face? Moreover, if Sister Sang Wan is doing so much for me, I will definitely feel in debt!¡±


    Wang Shi did not hesitate to ask Sang Wan after hearing Gu Fangzi, ¡°That is also so, Sang Wan, will¡ª¡ª will you be able to handle it?¡±


    Nanny Li had never liked Gu Fangzi¡¯s frivolous behavior because behind it was definitely something sinister. She secretly sneered and smiled, ¡°Old Mistress, there¡¯s no need to worry about that! Whatever Young Mistress doesn¡¯t know, with just a call, this old servant shall do it! This old servant wasn¡¯t able to witness Young Master¡¯s marriage, but now that he will be getting a concubine this time around, this old servant will be more than happy contribute! Miss Gu, there¡¯s also no need to feel in debt at all!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart turned gloomy, but she could only follow with a smile. ¡°For Nanny to be so caring, Fangzi shall give her thanks!¡±


    Nanny Li waved it away and spoke bluntly, ¡°Miss Gu, there¡¯s no need to thank an olddy like me! This olddy only wishes to be of use to Young Master. This is something this old servant ought to do! This old servant doesn¡¯t deserve Miss Gu¡¯s thanks!¡±


    Her meaning was clear. What she does has nothing to do with Gu Fangzi. Even if Shi Fengju were to receive someone else as a concubine, she would still do the same for her!


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s smile was grim and she nced at Wang Shi to show her grievance.


    Wang Shi returned aforting look. Of course she could not reprimand Nanny Li, and she smiled, ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, then it¡¯s settled! This matter will be handled by Sang Wan, if there are any problems, just seek Older Sister for help.¡±


    Sang Wan quickly affirmed, ¡°Mother, no need to worry. Nanny is experienced. I will humbly seek her advice and discuss everything with her!¡±


    ¡°This old servant will also fully support Young Mistress!¡± Nanny Li affirmed right after.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s immediately felt dizzy after hearing those words.


    Unexpectedly, something which gave her even more of a headache happened right after when she heard Nanny Li asking, ¡°Old Mistress, there¡¯s also a matter which this old servant may be speaking too inappropriately! The hierarchy of the household cannot be put into chaos. When Miss Gu enters the Shi family, she would be the concubine! The household already has a Young Mistress, there¡¯s no sense to make a concubine manage the household. Old Mistress, ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Wang Shi could not help but nce at Sang Wan. The thought of Gu Fangzi¡¯s matter had already brought about injustice to her daughter-inw. What¡¯s more, her daughter-inw¡¯s performance in the Zhuang household already disyed how capable she was. And with Nanny Li and the household department, letting her manage the household would definitely be more sensible.


    Besides, letting a concubine manage the household was indeed unpresentable!


    And so, she nodded and smiled, ¡°I have almost forgotten if you hadn¡¯t mentioned it! So be it, Sang Wan, you shall be the one to manage the household from today on! If there¡¯s something you do not understand, seek advice from Nanny Li and the household department! Oh, there¡¯s also Fangzi! She¡¯s very familiar with it, so you can ask her too! Fangzi, I hope you won¡¯t hide it all to yourself!¡±


    Gu Fangzi felt so nauseous that she almost vomited out blood! Just what was this? She hadn¡¯t even entered the Shi family yet and she was already left with nothing!


    ¡°Aunt Wang!¡¯ Gu Fangzi was so furious that she could almost breathe out fire, but on the surface, she showed a happy smile and acted flightily, ¡°Fangzi wouldn¡¯t dare! From today on, we¡¯re a family! Even without Aunt Wang saying it, Fangzi will definitely give my fullest support and help Sister Sang Wan manage the household!¡±


    Wang Shi somehow did not hear Gu Fangzi¡¯s implied meaning and nodded with a smile, ¡°Hearing you say that, I¡¯m relieved!¡±


    What a shameless woman, how did the young master fancy such a person! Nanny Li sneered secretly and spoke, ¡°Old Mistress, since everything has been settled, this old servant thinks that picking a day to send Miss Gu home should be done as quickly as possible! The sedan chair must be carried out from the Gu family house in any case!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was taken aback by her words and became speechless.


    ¡°You¡¯re very right,¡± Wang Shi straightened her brows and smiled a little, ¡°Thankfully, you¡¯ve reminded me again. Otherwise, I might have forgotten about it! This matter doesn¡¯t need two people to handle; for this matter, Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°Mother, rest assured. In two days time, Sang Wan shall arrange for it to be done and have a carriage ready to send Sister Fangzi home! The chamber in the household should also hurry with the cleanup!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Nanny Li then added, ¡°Miss Gu, do remember to hand over the keys before leaving so that everything can be done smoothly. Otherwise, things might get troublesome.¡±


    ¡°That is of course!¡± Gu Fangzi squeezed out those words from her mouth. The smile on her face exposed a little of her dissatisfaction.

 Chapter 59 (V2): Once a Part of the Family, Teach Her a Lesson

    <h4>Chapter 59 (V2): Once a Part of the Family, Teach Her a Lesson</h4>


    ¡°Young Mistress, just you wait! When she enters the family, she¡¯ll only be a concubine! Young Mistress, disy your authority as a wife and seize what you want to seize; arrange it however you deem! Let¡¯s see what else she¡¯ll dare to say!¡± In Ning Garden, Nanny Li spoke in high morale.


    Upon hearing the news that Gu Fangzi would soon enter the family, Nanny Li was startled and furious. Yet, once her feelings had eased, she grew confident, and like the dust which settled, she became calm.


    As of now, only Old Mistress was backing Miss Gu. But once she became a concubine, no one would be able to protect her!


    Realizing this, Nanny Li could only wish for Gu Fangzi to be married in as soon as possible. Then, Sang Wan could use her authority to turn the girl honest and prevent her from abusing any affectation ever again!


    Nanny Li¡¯s ideas were well understood. As for the injustice she received in this matter, Sang Wan neither uttered a singleint to Nanny Li nor even asked for her aid to conceal this matter.


    Largely because she knew that Nanny Li would not only disagree but also feel disgusted if she tried.


    No matter her dislike for Gu Fangzi, as long as Shi Fengju liked the girl, Nanny Li would not object the marriage. In fact, the only thing she disliked about Gu Fangzi was how disobedient she was and how she did not treat Shi Fengju like the sky and serve him!


    All Nanny Li wanted was to help her teach Gu Fangzi a lesson and make her more honest, nothing more.


    Sang Wan sighed to herself. Nanny Li underestimated Gu Fangzi¡¯s position in Shi Fengju¡¯s heart! Besides, what qualification does she have to remediate Gu Fangzi? Shi Fengju would not agree to it.


    In the main courtyard, Wang Shi reminded Gu Fangzi to patiently wait for the appointed day toe, to bring more silvers with her, to bring along a maidservant close to her, to not go head to head with her father, and to do much more. Gu Fangzi nodded from time to time as she was being carefully reminded. However, she was reluctant to part.


    ¡°Aunt Wang, I¡¯m really unwilling to leave you! When I¡¯m not around, you¡¯ve got to take care of your body! After today, the days ahead will get warmer and warmer, but you must still be careful not catch a cold. You should take less of those cooling food! In the afternoon when the sun is high in the sky, don¡¯t leave the house, but don¡¯t just shut yourself inside your chamber too. In the morning or evening, go out and have a stroll; it¡¯ll be good for your body...¡±


    Wang Shi could not help but feel an unwillingness to part as well, so she held Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand, ¡°Good, good. Aunt Wang understands! Keke, really, only you are the closest to Aunt! Go home and rest well. You can rest assured that Aunt Wang won¡¯t let you down!¡± With that said, she added with a smile, ¡°The next time we meet, it will be when you call me Mother!¡±


    At the corner, Nanny Jiang raised an eyelid and yawned silently.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes, however, glistened, and she nodded bashfully, ¡°En, Fangzi also looks forward to that day too!¡± With that done, she gave a pleasant smile to Wang Shi before taking her leave.


    Returning to Peony Park, she discovered two to three maidservants from the household department already waiting for her. Seeing her, they quickly greeted her before some reported of various matters while others exchanged tabs with items.


    Gu Fangzi cheered herself up and settled the maidservants one by one.


    The maidservants fawned over the future concubine, and good words kept flowing like river¡¯s waters. If it were the past, Gu Fangzi would surely be beaming and every pore on her skin would feelfortable.


    However, now that she was about to hand over her power, those words sounded particrly harsh to her ears! Imagining the faces these maidservants would have towards her once she lost the power to manage the household, Gu Fangzi felt a chill run down her spine.


    No! She would not leave so easily!


    Gu Fangzi used one excuse after another and dyed for another four to five days. Nevertheless, Sang Wan did not wish to inconvenience herself by revealing how impatient she was, so she went to have a few words with Nanny Li, telling her that if Gu Fangzi did not hand over the power, there would be no way toplete the arrangements set for the marriage. If something were to go wrong, then she would have to deal with it herself!


    Gu Fangzi refused to ept it and was furious; however, she knew Sang Wan was speaking the truth. The matter had already been handed over by Wang Shi to Sang Wan, and so, only Sang Wan could make the arrangements. She herself could not be the one to order the Shi servants around to prepare her own wedding; it would be an utter joke!


    Helpless, Gu Fangzi could only organize various other small matters and informed Sang Wan that she would hand over the power within two days at the most. Sang Wan got the word and pursued the matter no further.


    It just so happened that a servant at the Second Gate came to report that the Young Mistress¡¯s brother had arrived!


    Gu Fangzi was still hateful of Sang Wan, and hearing that a Sang member had arrived, she asked irritably, ¡°What now? Did he ask for something?¡±


    The female servantughed and replied, ¡°He was just passing by and would like to see Young Mistress!¡±


    ¡°That sounds nice and all, but I¡¯m sure he¡¯s just here to seek some financial help! Young Mistress is busy. Nanny, give a few silvers to him from the ount!¡± Lan Xiang spoke for her master and sneered.


    ¡°Keep your mouth shut! Is the Young Mistress¡¯s brother someone you can speak of!¡± Gu Fangzi red at Lan Xiang. Lan Xiang quickly smiled and sought forgiveness.


    The servant dared not speak and could only nervously smile with them.


    ¡°Oh, why are you still here! Waiting for the Missy to give you tea?¡± Lan Xiang saw the woman still standing there and scolded.


    The woman, secretly contemptuous, respectfully replied,¡±This old servant is not yet distinguished enough for Missy to notice!¡±


    Gu Fangzi red at her impatiently. ¡°Do you not have ears? Did you not hear what Lan Xiang said? Move along with it; I¡¯m busy! How do I have the time to deal with a mess like you!¡±


    The maidservant, cursing her luck and fearing of being punishedter on, quickly replied, ¡°Then this old servant shall take ten silvers from the ount ¡ª¡ª¡± Seeing Gu Fangzi ring coldly at her, she hurriedly correctly her words, ¡°Uh, five silvers to Second Young Master Sang then I won¡¯t trouble Mistress anymore?¡±


    ¡°Go, go!¡± Gu Fangzi waved impatiently.


    The maidservant turned and left.


    But who knew she would run into Hong Ye, and she easily revealed that Sang Wan¡¯s second brother hade. Immediately after hearing the news, Hong Ye ran anxiously to Ning Garden and reported to Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan pondered to herself, before speaking, ¡°If something had really happened, big brother wouldn¡¯te all the way here. Liu Ya, head there and take a look quickly; I¡¯ll follow from behind!¡±


    Liu Ya epted beforeughing, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯ve heard wrong. It isn¡¯t First Young Master Sang but Second Young Master Sang!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed, and she almost jumped in shock. Her eyes focused on Hong Ye, and she asked, ¡°Are you sure you heard right? It is Second Young Master Sang?¡±


    Hong Ye was in a daze before hurriedly nodding. ¡°Yes, Nanny Liu said Second Young Master Sang! I¡¯m sure!¡±


    ¡°Quickly! Move quickly!¡± Sang Wan, without caring for her attire, anxiously ordered Liu Ya, ¡°Head there quickly! Don¡¯t just walk, run! Second Young Master Sang must not leave! If he has left, get a servant to chase after him! Quickly!¡±


    Liu Ya had never seen Sang Wan so rmed before and immediately began panicking too. ¡°Ai!¡± With a sound, she lifted her legs and sprinted out!


    ¡°We must hurry too!¡± Sang Wan ignored Hong Ye, Zhide, and the rest of the maidservants¡¯ startled faces, forcing them to hurry behind her.


    It was her second brother; it was her second brother who came!


    To have forgotten! How could she have forgotten!


    In her previous life, her second brother had been on the way to Hangzhou to participate in an examination held in a vige. When he passed by Qingzhou, he had gone to look for her before leaving. But who would have known Gu Fangzi and the Shi household¡¯s people would be so cynical towards him? Angered, he left. But as a result, bad news arrived the next day, reporting that the ship he had taken met with an ident in the middle of a canal and that he had drowned!


    In this lifetime, a tragedy like that must never repeat!


    Now, Sang Yufei had been waiting for some time in the waiting area, and it was only after a while before a servant appeared whom he quickly went forward in order to ask for his younger sister¡¯s whereabouts.


    Without even thinking, Nanny Liu took a glimpse at him before pushing two pieces of broken silvers into his hand and said, ¡°Second Young Master Sang, just take this and hurry on with your journey! Our Young Mistress has no time to meet with you!¡±


    Sang Yufei immediately froze.


    ¡°Did my younger sister really say that?¡± Sang Yufei asked. He could not believe a single word that he had heard. The woman did not have a good vibe about her. Moreover, how would he not be clear about what his own younger sister¡¯s character was like!


    ¡°Second Young Master Sang, what¡¯s the meaning of those words?¡±


    Gu Fangzi had already demanded the servant to report directly to her if the Sang family members ever visited. Nanny Liu had gleefully gone to report with the expectation that she would be rewarded, but who knew she would receive criticism instead! Nanny Liu, at this moment, held a belly full of anger. Snorting coldly, she scowled. ¡°Is Second Young Master Sang implying that I am lying? Our Shi household has its own rules to follow, and I do not have the guts!¡± Before she whispered softly, ¡°Which guest doesn¡¯t show their visiting card first? Me notifying the person-in-charge is already a gain for you... foolish vige people who don¡¯t understand the rules...¡±


    Sang Yufei, no matter what, was a schr, and all schrs had a certain arrogance, a confidence that apanied the profession. His face flushed red with both anger and embarrassment, and he secretly scolded, ¡°The Shi family really were sc*mbags!¡±


    His face could not allow him to make a ruckus with a servant, so he sneered and firmly ced the two broken pieces of silver back into her hands before leaving.


    Nanny Liu stood startled. ¡°Xie!¡± she blurted out after a moment and contentedly ced the broken silvers into her pocket, ¡°Forget it, if you don¡¯t want, I want! Not like the silvers can bite!¡±


    Liu Ya was already gasping for air when she ran over. But Sang Yufei had already left.


    ¡°Aiyo, Missy! What, what¡¯s wrong!¡± Seeing Liu Ya ncing around breathlessly, Nanny Liu could not help but be curious.


    Without waiting to catch her breath, she grabbed Nanny Liu¡¯s arm and asked, ¡°Second Young Master Sang! Where¡¯s Second Young Master Sang? Where did Second Young Master Sang go!¡±


    Nanny Liu sensed that something was amiss, she suddenly wished she could p her own mouth! Everything would have been fine if she had remained quiet!


    She quickly tried to steer clear of the crucial subject, ¡°Second Young Master Sang? What Second Young Master Sang? I don¡¯t know!¡±


    Liu Ya was not the same as before. Seeing the weird expression Nanny Liu had, she knew something was off and shouted, ¡°Enough with your rubbish! I¡¯m talking about Second Young Master Sang from Young Mistress¡¯s family! Where is he? Has he left?¡±


    Nanny Liu was not afraid of Liu Ya, but she was afraid of Liu Ya¡¯s godmother. Not daring to lie, she stammered, ¡°He le-eft already! Second Young Master Sang only passed by to give a greeting before leaving!¡±


    ¡°How long ago did he leave?¡± Sang Wan had already rushed over, and with a cold face, she asked Nanny Liu.


    Nanny Liu could not help but be mad. What is with these people approaching one after another and making me angry? Taking advantage of the fact that Sang Wan was not the one taking charge of the household, she spoke with a half-hearted attitude, ¡°Left a while ago!¡±


    Sang Wan red at her before ordering Liu Ya, ¡°You go and find him. I don¡¯t care how you do it, but bring Second Young Master Sang back! Quickly!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya rolled her eyes at the nanny before leaving with a hurried anxiety.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face was extremely gloomy. Throwing her handkerchief aside, she coldly instructed Hong Ye, ¡°Bring Management Wu over!¡±

 Chapter 60 (V2): Showing Her Might

    <h4>Chapter 60 (V2): Showing Her Might</h4>


    Management Wu was the maidservant in charge of carrying out the punishment of servants within the Shi household. Nanny Liu immediately panicked and quickly forced augh, ¡°Young Mistress, may I know the reason for calling Management Wu over?¡±


    Sang Wan coldly red at her without speaking. Seeing Sang Wan¡¯s expression, Zhide scolded Nanny Liu, ¡°How bold of you! Is there a need for Young Mistress to exin everything she wishes to do to you!¡±


    Nanny Liu was at a loss for words and she quickly smiled, ¡°Then, this old servant shall not bother Young Mistress. This old servant still has things to do so I shall leave first!¡±


    ¡°Stand still!¡± Sang Wan coldly voiced out.


    ¡°Does Young Mistress have something she wishes to instruct this old servant?¡± Nanny Liu was taken aback.


    Sang Wan ignored her entirely and headed to Baoxia Hall which was not far away.


    Zhide red back at Nanny Liu and said to her, ¡°What Young Mistress tells you to do, just do. Stop with the nonsense and hurry over now!¡± before hurrying to help Sang Wan over.


    Nanny Liu had no choice and gently pped her own mouth before following behind anxiously.


    Not too longter, Management Wu arrived and stepped forward to give her greeting before seeking the issue.


    Sang Wan looked towards Zhide and pouted her lips at her. ¡°You tell Management Wu what happened just now.¡±


    ¡°Yes Young Mistress!¡± Zhide responded before describing the issue in full details.


    Management Wu¡¯s expression changed slightly and she gave a glimpse at Nanny Liu.


    Management Wu could, at any moment, make Nanny Liu¡¯s life turn miserable with just a sentence. Nanny Liu immediately panicked under pressure and kneeled on the floor to seek forgiveness while offering an exnation at the same time, ¡°This old servant deserves to die, but it isn¡¯t this old servant¡¯s fault! It was Miss Gu who instructed this old servant to give Second Young Master Sang the five silvers to send him off. Miss Gu also said there was no need to tell Young Mistress¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Presumptuous!¡± Sang Wan coldly cut her off and sneered, ¡°Useless woman, if you want to lie, then think first before saying! My family member came, and since he was here to see me, what did that have to do with Miss Gu? Miss Gu isn¡¯t a foolish woman to give such a ridiculous instruction. And even if she did give you instructions, it would be to go to Ning Garden to inform me!¡±


    ¡°This old servant isn¡¯t lying, this old servant is speaking the absolute truth!¡± Nanny Liu cried her grievance.


    ¡°You still don¡¯t wish to admit your mistake?¡± Sang Wan raged and pointed at her, ¡°I think you must have turned foolish due to your age! Should I invite Miss Gu over and have this settled with her present? En?¡±


    The word ¡°Okay¡± almost blurted out of Nanny Liu¡¯s mouth but she quickly held it back in as her face turned pale in an instant.


    She was not foolish to that degree. She knew that even if Gu Fangzi were toe, she would definitely not admit while mentioning for her to provide evidence to support her im. And even if there were some evidence, offending Gu Fangzi would not do any good for her in the Shi household. Not only would she herself be unlucky, her entire family would also have to suffer alongside!


    ¡°Foolishness is on this old servant! Foolishness is on this old servant! This old servant must¡¯ve been possessed and spoke those foolish words that shouldn¡¯t be spoken! Young Mistress, please have mercy on this old servant! This old servant wouldn¡¯t dare anymore, this old servant wouldn¡¯t dare!¡± Nanny Liu pped herself on the face, left and right, and cried for mercy.


    Sang Wan frowned and signaled to Zhide.


    Zhide¡¯s face dimmed and she scolded, ¡°Quiet! Yelling in front of Young Mistress and telling her what to do next! Does this household not follow the rules anymore!¡±


    Nanny Liu¡¯s shoulders immediately sank. She submitted entirely to Sang Wan and dared not utter another sound as she sent her pleas through her eyes.


    Sang Wan might have a good temperament on a normal day, but that did not mean she did not have a temper. If someone were to infuriate her and she were to let them off easily, her days in the household would no longer be peaceful anymore! Keeping the expression she had, she coldly shot a nce at Management Wu.


    Management Wu quickly rushed up to her and eximed, ¡°It¡¯s all this servant¡¯s fault for not strictly disciplining the servants beneath sufficiently which caused them infuriate Young Mistress!¡±


    Management Wu was close with Nanny Li and already knew that the household would soon be managed under Sang Wan. Seeing that Sang Wan showed no mercy and wishes to operate on Nanny Liu and have her be the sacrificalmb to show the rest of the servants, Management Wu hoped to buy a favor and continued, ¡°Nanny Liu is careless in the way she handled the matter, for offending and challenging the head, by the rules, she shall be punished with 20 beatings with the nk, have her sry be penalized for half a year, and be sent to the farm to dobor work!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Nanny Liu screamed in fear andy weakly on the floor.


    Sang Wan loosened her expression a little but she had no intentions of speaking for Nanny Liu. Instead, she asked indifferently, ¡°How many people are there in her family? What are they working as in the household?¡±


    Management Wu¡¯s heart could not help but pound heavily. In her heart, she praised her Young Mistress for being exceedingly merciless!


    Quickly, she replied, ¡°There are four members including Nanny Liu herself. Other than she and her husband, they have a son and a daughter. I¡¯ll simply have them all reunite at the farm!¡±


    ¡°Then so be it. All to follow ording to the rules!¡± Without even giving a nce at Nanny Liu, Sang Wan nodded and threw that single sentence before leaving with Zhide.


    ¡°Yes Young Mistress!¡± Management Wu dared not breathe too loudly and bow respectfully, ¡°I shall escort you out!¡±


    Management Wu secretly reminded herself that she would rather offend Miss Gu than someone like Young Mistress for she would be the one to be the head of the household in the future!


    The matter was handled cleanly with Miss Gu pushed out of the way and Nanny Liu punished severely ¨C it was absolutely stunning! Miss Gu was put at a difficult spot; to help Nanny Liu would mean she confirms to Nanny Liu¡¯s words which would threaten her reputation. But by not helping, it was made clear that Nanny Liu was the scapegoat. Seeing the inevitable ending which fell on Nanny Liu, who would dare to do anything for her in the future? Even if they were to, they would first have to carefully think of the consequences.


    On the other hand, Sang Wan had not only raised a position for herself to not let others look down on her, but also expressed her big-heartedness an official wife could have towards a concubine. Miss Gu would definitely not be able to refuse the favor!


    Upon seeing Liu Ya bring Second Young Master Sang back, Sang Wan let out a sigh of relief and smiled happily, ¡°My second brother, seriously, if you¡¯re here to see me, why leave first without doing so?¡±


    Sang Yufei felt a little embarrassed but he did not wish to upset his sister by telling her about the incident he had just then, so he smiled and said, ¡°I wasn¡¯t in a hurry. But I was afraid you might be busy so I left!¡±


    ¡°No matter how busy I am, you¡¯re my brother!¡± Sang Wan stared at him with her eyes wide opened before speaking in dissatisfaction, ¡°And what¡¯s more, you¡¯re about to participate in an examination held in a town. Such a big thing, I ought to give you some support!¡± With that said, she added with an uncertain tone, ¡°Second Brother, you should stay here for a few days!¡±


    Sang Yufei had wanted to refuse, but seeing his younger sister pretending to be angry if he did, he could not bear to disappoint her. Moreover, he had also wanted to see how exactly his younger sister was spending her time here in the Shi household, so he epted with a smile.


    Sang Wan heaved a sigh of relief and smiled, ¡°That¡¯s great! I haven¡¯t talked a great amount with Second Brother for a long time already!¡± She ordered some servants to tidy the guest room and brought Sang Yufei to meet with Wang Shi.


    At the entrance of the courtyard, Shi Lian happened to walk out. Seeing Sang Wan and Sang Yufei, she was startled and wanted to escape, but she hesitated for a long while before going up to them and greeted with a smile, ¡°Sister-inw!¡±


    After the incident by the pond, the rtionship between Shi Lian and Sang Wan became somewhat closer than before. asionally, she would go over to where Sang Wan was to sit and chat.


    Regardless whether the visits were done with a good heart, but since Shi Lian was of help at that time and had taken the initiative to do so, Sang Wan was more than pleased to wee her visits. Coming and going, the two became more familiar with each other.


    Sang Yufei withdrew and stood at a side as Sang Wan went to hold Shi Lian¡¯s hand. With a nod, she asked with a smile, ¡°Were you here to keep Motherpany? Is everything alright with Mother?¡±


    Shi Lian became low in spirits for a split second, but she quickly smiled and shook her head, ¡°Mother is having an idle chat with Nanny Jiang, everything¡¯s fine! Sister Sang Wan, go in quickly, I¡¯ll not dy Sister Sang Wan any further. Let¡¯s chat againter!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded. As she watched Shi Lian leave, she urged Sang Yufei and entered together with him.


    Seeing a talented man that was both polite and elegant, and had an aura of literacy, Wang Shi took a liking to him and was courteous towards him. Wang Shi heard that he was going to Hangzhou to take his examinations and became envious of him, ¡°That¡¯s really good! Second Young Master Sang is a man with talents, your wisdom must be the same too! I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be able to get the top title! When will my third child ever be as great as you!¡±


    Sang Wan forced a smile. As for Sang Yufei, he almostughed and cried. He pondered a little about what the old mistress had said. When had talent and wisdom evere together? But seeing that her younger sister¡¯s mother-inw was someone quite interesting, it was at least not some elder whose temperament was strange.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be borrowing Aunt Wang¡¯s words and visit again when I attain it!¡± Sang Yufeiughed.


    ¡°Will do, will do!¡± Wang Shi nodded and smiled, ¡°We¡¯re rtives, so seeing each other often should be something we ought to do! It doesn¡¯t matter if Second Young Master Sang didn¡¯t get the title, Second Young Master Sang is still young! The next time Second Young Master Sanges to visit, I¡¯ll have someone bring my third child to let you give him some pointers!¡±


    Sang Yufei was taken aback for a moment and the smile on his face was a little stiff as he gave a reply uneasily.


    Sang Wan was a little ufortable with where the conversation was heading, with the big examinationsing near, her mother-inw¡¯s words were not too nice to hear even though it was unintentional! She feared that her mother-inw may blurt out more words which would make them feel more uneasy and she quickly spoke, ¡°I heard that the third young master was the top few in Yuanchang College. I¡¯m sure he is very knowledgeable too. Mother, you¡¯re being too modest!¡±


    Sang Yufei was also slightly surprised and said, ¡°So Third Young Master Shi is in Yuanchang College. The professor incharge of the college there is someone who retired from Hanlin Academy located in the capital. His knowledge is broad and profound, Third Young Master Shi is definitely bound to be able to get the number one title!¡±


    As a mother, there was none who dislike listening to someone praising their son, and Wang Shi was no exception. Hearing so, she grinned and spoke cheerfully, ¡°Second Young Master Sang truly knows how to speak! Keke, if something like that reallyes true, this old woman will definitely be too happy to sleep!¡± Her grin continued as she spoke, ¡°He only turned 16 and is still a little young. When the timees, I¡¯ll have him give it a try. When that happens, do give him a few pointers!¡±


    Sang Yufei quickly smiled and agreed.


    Sang Wan secretly found it funny. To think that her second brother actually knows how to tter others. Her mother-inw was now ted, like a blooming flower!


    ¡°Mother,¡± Sang Wan took the chance and requested, ¡°The route there is tiring, I was thinking of letting my second brother stay in the household for a few days...¡±


    Before Sang Wan could finish, Wang Shi nodded hurriedly and smiled, ¡°That ought to be, that ought to be! There¡¯s still time anyway, so Second Young Master Sang, stay here a few days! Rest well, and if you¡¯ve anything you need, you can just tell your younger sister!¡±


    Sang Yufei quickly got up and gave his thanks.


    Wang Shi lifted her hand and waved to forego the formality before she smiled, ¡°You siblings really are too polite! No need for it, we¡¯re now a family!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled in response before leaving with Sang Yufei.

 Chapter 61 (V2): Everything Has to Follow the Customs

    <h4>Chapter 61 (V2): Everything Has to Follow the Customs</h4>


    Ushering Sang Yufei to Ning Garden, Sang Wan smiled. But before she could begin the conversation by talking about the weather, her second brother¡¯s face darkened a little and he questioned her, ¡°Sang Wan, is there something you¡¯re hiding from us?¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback. She knew that the ¡®us¡¯ he was referring to were him, Big Brother, and Sister-inw.


    ¡°Second Brother, what are you saying? Aren¡¯t I looking fine?¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    That, however, made Sang Yufei more sure of his thought. Under the silent confrontation between the two, Sang Wan gave up in the end and lowered her eyes slightly.


    She forced out augh and asked awkwardly, ¡°Second Brother, what do you wish to tell me?¡±


    As of now, the Sang family had not gotten wind of the news that Gu Fangzi will be marrying into the Shi family yet. Wang Shi had been avoiding the topic because she feared the Sang family woulde over to create a ruckus. If that happens, it would be difficult for her to handle. As such, she wanted to wait until Shi Fengju returned before letting Sang Wan pass the news. When thates, at least her son would be present to handle the situation.


    ¡°I just feel that something¡¯s a little off,¡± Sang Yufei spoke with a faint smile. ¡°For a servant at the Second Gate to dare to be insincere and look down on you who¡¯s the young mistress of the household, Sang Wan, just what is going on?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled bitterly. Her second brother was not like her big brother who could be fooled easily. Thinking back, when Liu Ya told her sister-inw about the Double Fifth Festival, her sister-inw might have been quick with her mouth and told her second brother about it.


    Sang Wan murmured, ¡°As of now, the household is managed by my mother-inw¡¯s niece so all the household affairs are handled by her. Because of that, some servants might be foolishly ignorant towards me. As for that servant, I¡¯ve already punished her severely!¡± With that, she exined the punishment she gave. ¡°I may be quite passive by nature, but who knew others would end up taking advantage of it, and thus something like that happened today!¡±


    Sang Yufei thought for a moment. He ced some trust in those words and smiled, ¡°I see, so that¡¯s the case! Then my mind can be at rest.¡±


    Sang Wan smiled, ¡°I¡¯m already this old, what can you be worrying about? If, if I still need to make my two brothers and my sister-inw worry, then I, really¡ª¡ª¡±


    Thinking that her two brothers and sister-inw worry for her, Sang Wan could not help but feel touched in her heart and her eyes turned moist.


    ¡°Sillyss,¡± Sang Yufeiughed, ¡°Father and Mother aren¡¯t around anymore. Your brothers and sister-inw worrying for you is something we ought to, don¡¯t you think? If you don¡¯t marry well, then how can we face our parents in heaven?¡±


    Recalling the blissful moments she had with her brothers in the past when she was still young, even though they weren¡¯t rich, but that was the time when the environment around her was the most pleasant!


    Sang Wan felt a warmth in her heart and she smiled. A smile that was soft and gentle on her white face, and the glisten on her ck eyes that was like ss.


    In her past life, she had actually ignored such precious feelings! In this lifetime, she had to be happy because her happiness was not just for herself, but also for those of her beloved ones who were close with her!


    ¡°Second Brother, thank you. Thank you, Second Brother, Big Brother, and Sister-inw! I¡¯ll be alright and not let all of you worry!¡± Sang Wan broke into a smile.


    Sang Yufeiughed before letting out a sigh, ¡°Our Sang Wan really have grown! To actually know how to say ¡®Thank you¡¯ now!¡±


    Sang Wan felt a little embarrassed by his words and wanted to deny shyly, only to hear her brother let out another gentle sigh, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that the older we get, the more foolish we be, just like your brother here!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother!¡± Sang Wan was startled and felt even more embarrassed! Both the brother and sisterughed right after.


    Sang Yufei felt that there was something really wrong with that Miss Gu person, but as a man, it would inconvenience him to reproach someone else¡¯s missy behind their back. As such, he could only sideswipe to Sang Wan and let it pass. Sang Wan smiled in response but was somewhat anxious deep inside. As the days passed one after another, it became harder to tell him!


    Sang Yufei stayed in the Shi household for three days. It so happened that there was arge ship heading for Hangzhou. As such, Sang Wan ordered a servant to book a fine cabin before letting Sang Yufei leave. Before Sang Yufei could refuse, Sang Wan already arranged for two well-built servants who knew how to swim to follow him and see to him until he reaches Hangzhou safely by using her mother-inw¡¯s name. In secret, she gave them an ultimate order to follow Second Young Master Sang closely and never to listen to his order but never to displease him in any other way! Of course, a huge reward was added.


    Sang Yufei didn¡¯t understand why she was being so tensed and took it that she was being too concerned about his exams. From the immense amount of pressure, he could not help but also feel the warmth from it . The pressure turned into motivation for him in the battle ahead and he said, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t worry, Second Brother will surely bring back the top title! I¡¯ll not disappoint all of you!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly spoke, ¡°As long as Second Brother returns peacefully, there¡¯re still many more opportunities to get the title!¡±


    Sang Yufei could not understand her thoughts for saying so, and took it that she was trying tofort him and he nodded with a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Heughed and left.


    After Sang Yufei left, Sang Wan¡¯s heart tightened. Lots of uncontroble thoughts came to her head, and only when she thought of the other two servants who were apanying him, her heart calmed down a little. Until three dayster when the two servants return to report that Second Young Master Sang had safely reached Hangzhou and was staying in an inn was she then finally relieved.


    Gu Fangzi also could no longer drag any longer. Reluctantly, shepleted the tasks which she needed to finish and left on a carriage with Lan Xiang away from the Shi household.


    But before she left, she could not help but look back at the high-rise walls around the household and the captivating huge courtyard of the Shi household which gave her a feeling of ease.


    Very soon, she will return! And when that timees, this entire ce shall belong entirely to her! Entirely to her, Gu Fangzi!


    Sang Wan pulled herself together. She familiarized herself with the affairs within the household while also urging the renovation of Peony Park and the other necessary preparations.


    For the renovation, Sang Wan actually did not have to take the trouble to manage it as Nanny Li had already been waiting for this moment to harshly deal a blow at Gu Fangzi. As such, Sang Wan just assigned the responsibility to her to let her do as she please.


    After getting Sang Wan¡¯s word and making her idea clear to Wang Shi, she went and began the preparations needed to be done on Peony Park. The fine porcins and jade decorations were all kept in the warehouse and switched with ordinary crafts, and the set of yellow pear furniture was reced with ordinary wooden furniture. The only thing that remained unchanged was the canopy bed with the iidndscape pictures¡ª¡ªbecause Shi Fengju would also have to sleep on that bed, and so it was left untouched. Everything else from curtains to tablecloths, chairs to tables, and whatever that was bright red was reced with dull pink or white! Of course, the quality of the items were lower than before.


    Nanny Li imed that was how a concubine should be treated. She also said that if the concubine was not Miss Gu, there was no way a concubine should be living in such a huge courtyard like Peony Garden! Implying that she was already being extraordinarily generous towards her!


    As for the part about inviting guests over for the banquet, Nanny Li stated that the Shi family had already held a joyous event in the year already and would not be eptable to invite the guests again for another event such as weing in a concubine. There isn¡¯t anyone from the Gu family to invite anyway, and even if there were, there wouldn¡¯t be many! Having three to five tables where one for the masters and the rest for the management servants, Nannies, and guests. The courtyard servants can prepare a few tables for themselves and the other servants, and that would be enough.


    Wang Shi had a weird little feeling in her heart when she heard about the arrangement and smiled, ¡°That sounds reasonable, but, but it seems a little unsatisfactory for Fangzi!¡±


    ¡°Unsatisfactory?¡± Nanny Li quickly smiled, ¡°Which household doesn¡¯t do this when weing in a concubine! Missy, don¡¯t forget, she is no longer your niece, but the young master¡¯s concubine! Our Shi family is one who follows the custom. If a concubine doesn¡¯t act her part, then the Shi family would really lose face! If someone were to say something like the Shi family favoring the concubine and doing away with the wife, don¡¯t say anybody else, but Old Mistress Zhuang would definitely make a fuss over it!¡±


    She then strengthened her words with another sentence, ¡°Miss Gu has always been knowledgeable and sensible. I¡¯m sure she would also agree to this! This is after all for the reputation of the family!¡±


    Absolutely intolerable to be belittled by Old Mistress Zhuang! Wang Shi¡¯s face changed and she said tly, ¡°Alright! Our Shi family is one that follows the custom and shall never drift away from it!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Missy! Then, this old servant shall go about with the preparations!¡± Nanny Li grinned.


    ¡°En, Sister, you¡¯ve worked hard!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, it¡¯s nothing! Missy is giving this old servant too much credit!¡±


    The master and servant both smiled.


    Previously, Shi Fengju had sent a letter saying he would be back byte July, but who knew he would have something unexpected to take care of and would only be back early August. Wang Shi could not help but be anxious. Since it was already time, there was no need to wait for her daughter-inw to bring the good news to her son. As such, she sent a servant to report the news to urge him to return before August the 6th!


    As for the Sang family, the news could not be dragged any longer. Wang Shi had no choice but to instruct Sang Wan to go over and tell Sang Hong and Fang Shi.


    Sang Wan, without a choice, followed suit.


    Once Sang Hong and Fang Shi heard the news, their expression changed. Sang Hong could not believe what he heard was true, and as for Fang Shi, the shock slowly turned into a cold sneer, ¡°Sure enough, I¡¯ve guessed it right! So it really happened!¡±


    Following Fang Shi¡¯s idea, the Sang family should head over to the Shi family and have this matter settled once and for all. This would let the Shi family know that the Sang family is not one to tolerate such bullying! However, Sang Hong was against shooting the rat in fear of breaking the vase, he was afraid Sang Wan¡¯s days in the Shi family would be unbearable after and he stopped Fang Shi.


    Fang Shi was fuming with anger. Looking at her husband and her sister-inw who had no intentions to make any fuss, her anger turned into ice and she sneered, ¡°I see! You earnest members of the Sang family aren¡¯t even anxious, so why am I the one being anxious! Just do what you all like! To be bullied to such a state and you¡¯re all still enduring it. The Sang family sure are saints!¡±


    With that, she swung her hand and left.


    Tears flowed from Sang Wan¡¯s eyes and she went after her. ¡°Sister-inw!¡± She called out and quickly grabbed Fang Shi¡¯s arm tightly before sobbing, ¡°I know Sister-inw is doing so for my own good, and I¡¯m extremely grateful! But, but Gu Fangzi and Young Master Shi already had feelings before. It¡¯s just a matter of time before this matter happens! I ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan stubbornly pulled Fang Shi to a seat and briefly mentioned about the rtionship between Gu Fangzi and Shi Fengju. Sang Hong and Fang Shi be stunned and turned even more furious.


    ¡°It¡¯s all Big Brother¡¯s fault! If I had known this sooner, I would have never let the arranged marriage happen!¡± Sang Hong regretted morosely.

 Chapter 62 (V2): Let Me Become a Servant

    <h4>Chapter 62 (V2): Let Me Be a Servant</h4>


    Fang Shi rolled her eyes at him, ¡°Now you¡¯re being foolish again! How can the woman side of the family withdraw from a marriage!¡± Especially for a family like the Shi family and Shi Fengju¡¯s appearance, if they were to refuse the wedding, who else would dare to marry her? Surely the others would be thinking that there must be a reason or some w which she could not tell others, otherwise, why would she refuse such a good marriage? To tell the public that they were fearful of the cousin-inw who was going to be a concubine would not be a reason they wished to hear! Which Young Master of arge household does not have more than one wife?


    Fang Shi red at her husband, but she was also dissatisfied with Sang Wan, ¡°Even so, there¡¯s no need for you to be the one to take the step back! Can¡¯t she enter the family one or two yearster? Must it really be so rushed? You, are you trying to throw away your own face!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled bitterly and sighed, ¡°Sister-inw, no matter how foolish I am, I would not be so foolish as to do so! Even if I were to lose my face, I wouldn¡¯t let my Sang family lose its face ah! But my mother-inw¡ª¡ª¡±


    Fang Shi and Sang Hong looked at each other. They were clear as to what Sang Wan meant.


    ¡°Outrageous!¡± Fang Shi grind her teeth, ¡°That mother-inw of yours may seem like she treats you well, but who knew she had such a bad heart! Ai, was she just acting because we were present then!¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head and spoke gently, ¡°My mother-inw is a good person, but she¡¯s too naive. What¡¯s more, Gu Fangzi¡¯s isn¡¯t young anymore, so¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°But there isn¡¯t a need for it to be in such a hurry!¡± Fang Shi sneered, ¡°Whatever the reason, I¡¯ll not buy it!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw!¡± Sang Wan squeezed Fang Shi¡¯s arm tightly and spoke with gratitude, ¡°I know Sister-inw is thinking for the best of me, I, I wish I could dig out my heart and show how grateful I am to Sister-inw! But I, I¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan was anxious, in pain, and in a state of panic. She was afraid that because of this incident, Fang Shi would be annoyed and ignore her and she could not help but cry.


    Seeing the way she was now, Fang Shi¡¯s heart felt unbearably tight, yet tender and sour. She patted Sang Wan¡¯s back gently and soothed, ¡°Enough, enough, let¡¯s not cry anymore! To cry for something like this isn¡¯t worth! As your sister-inw, I shouldn¡¯t have said what I said, you¡¯ve your own troubles too! Since the matter has reached this point, then let it be! When she marries into the family, then you can use your authority as a wife to punish her!¡±


    Sang Hong could not help but intervene, ¡°I think that Fengju¡¯s personality is quite good, and I¡¯m sure your mother-inw¡¯s isn¡¯t ying an act. After all, Gu Fangzi is blood-rted to them, so Sang Wan, you¡¯ve to also take into ount their feelings or things wouldn¡¯t end up in your favor.¡±


    ¡°What are you rambling on about!¡± Fang Shi spoke with distaste, ¡°Other¡¯s are already bullying us to such a state and you¡¯re still ying sides, and telling Sang Wan to endure! If it¡¯s me, I wouldn¡¯t even leave them with any face!¡±


    Sang Hong frowned and spoke, ¡°What do you know! Sang Wan will be living there, if you were to create a ruckus, how will she be able to continue on living there!¡± With that said, he sighed, ¡°Big Brother doesn¡¯t hope for anything else but for your Second Brother to be able to pass the provincial civil service examination and then the highest imperial civil service examination. When that timees, not just Gu Fangzi, but even the Shi family will not dare to treat us anyhow!¡±


    Fang Shi stopped her mouth at that moment and nodded before opening it again, ¡°Now that¡¯s more like it! If he were to be an official, then no one will dare to look down on us Sang family!¡±


    Sang Wan felt an indescribable sense of warmth and gratitude, and she spoke with thanks, ¡°Big Brother, Sister-inw, thank you! For the days after this, I¡¯ll live to my fullest. What I can do, my heart knows the line that I cannot step pass! So long as the day continues when I stay in the Shi family, I¡¯ll definitely not let the Sang family lose face!¡±


    ¡°Good, good, it¡¯s good that we¡¯re able to ept the situation and move on!¡± Sang Hong stretched his brows gently.


    But Fang Shi smirked again, ¡°When¡¯s the day? When that timees, I¡¯ll attend the wedding feast!¡±


    ¡°What are you nning again!¡±


    ¡°Rx, even I can stay within the norms!¡± Fang Shi sneered, ¡°If none of us were present, the Shi family might even think that there¡¯s no Sang family at all!¡±


    Sang Hong spoke no longer.


    ¡°August the sixth. When that timees, I¡¯ll have someone fetch Sister-inw.¡± Sang Wan said.


    ¡°Good! Then I¡¯ll wait!¡± Fang Shi smiled.


    Sang Wan was sure that with a Sang member present, it would give some credibility and the Shi family servants would not look down on her!


    If the king hides, the devil would be more demanding. No one would be more clear than Sang Wan who had lived a life before.


    As they were chatting, they had a loud push from the courtyard, as if someone had entered. Fang Shi rose from her seat and was about to ask, only to hear a girl¡¯s cautious chuckle, ¡°Big Cousin, Cousin-In-Law, you¡¯re here!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Sang Rou!¡± Fang Shi frowned, ¡°Why¡¯s she here!¡±


    Sang Wan quickly patted her eyes with her handkerchief to dry her eyes before standing up too.


    ¡°Sister Sang Rou!¡± Sang Wan smiled politely.


    Sang Rou was ttered and quickly held Sang Wan¡¯s hand, ¡°Sister Sang Wan! It¡¯s been some time!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sang Rou, do you have any business here?¡± Fang Shi smirked and rubbed her hands on her clothes.


    ¡°Keke, it¡¯s just that, I saw Sister Sang Wan¡¯s carriage, and I thought it has been some time since I¡¯ve seen Sister Sang Wan so I decided toe pay a visit!¡± Sang Rou smiled, but it was somewhat unnatural.


    Sang Wan and Fang Shi were both speechless. The carriage was deliberately parked in a discreet area so that the Second Sang family would not see it. She was just about to leave, but who would have thought that Sang Rou would spot it.


    Fang Shi thenughed, ¡°Ai, Ah Rou¡¯s eyes are bing more and more incredible! How did you know that carriage is Sister Sang Wan¡¯s!¡±


    Sang Rou quickly smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s simple, a carriage of that style, which of our family and friends are able to ride on one other than our Sister Sang Wan! Only Sister Sang Wan has such a blessing!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true!¡± Fang Shi patted her clothes, ¡®Then, you all can go ahead and chat, I¡¯ll go do the dishes!¡±


    Fang Shi gave a wink and Sang Hong left too. Sang Wan¡¯s original intention was to leave, but since she was discovered by Sang Rou, her visit would definitely be discovered by Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Sang. There was no escaping from having to pay them a visitter on.


    ¡°Ai! Cousin, Cousin-inw, you all can carry along with your things!¡± Sang Rou¡¯s eyes glistened and her face brightened up.


    Sang Wan and Sang Rou then began to make an effort to talk about the weather. In the past, there wasn¡¯t much those two could talk about, and now, it was even more so. In the eyes of the public from before, there was a possibility that Sang Wan would be abandoned by the Shi family at any moment. There were many who envied and hated her for having such an arranged marriage, and they yearned to witness the day she plummets. Sang Rou was no exception. Those eyes that looked at Sang Wan always brought her with difort.


    At this moment, when she looked at Sang Rou whose face wore a stiff smile as she wished to say something to please her yet do not know how, Sang Wan felt even more so that she would have to brace herself for what was toe.


    ¡°My sister has now turned so decent and stylish, zeze, it really is something unexpected! Sister Sang Wan, you truly are blessed!¡±


    ¡°Now that Sister Sang Rou has said it, I feel somewhat embarrassed!¡± Sang Wan forced a smile awkwardly. All Sang Rou talked about were those words, but there was never once she asked how she was doing in the Shi family, and whether her life was to her liking or not. She could not help butment deep in the heart: In this world, only her brothers and sister-inw treats her dear!


    Sang Rou smiled before letting out a sigh, but those envious eyes never stopped staring at Sang Wan to a point that Sang Wan couldn¡¯t shake it off. ¡°Still, you must have suffered too on your own. But like what others say, firstes bitter thanes sweet. Now you live a life under the light of blissfulness! Unlike me, I¡¯m afraid my head must always be lowered for a lifetime! I don¡¯t wish for much, but all I ask for were just fewer scoldings and beatings, and have a peaceful life!¡±


    As she spoke, her eyes watered and she quickly used both her hands to wipe the tears off.


    Sang Wan could only force a smile tofort her, ¡°Sister Sang Rou, don¡¯t say that, Second Uncle and Second Aunt will surely make a path for you!¡±


    ¡°Them?¡± Sang Rou snorted and sneered, ¡°You mightugh, but I¡¯m sure you¡¯re aware of how they are. Money that my father gets his hands on will never see light again, what else can he see other than money? As for my mother, keke, I just hope that I¡¯m still alive when she makes a path for me! I fear that by the time my eyes are closed and my feet can no longer feel the ground will my sin then be finally cleared!¡±


    As she spoke lowly, she sobbed.


    ¡°How can that be! You are, after all, their daughter. They¡¯ll definitely care about you! Even if it were for the Sang family¡¯s image, they¡¯ll definitely care about you!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s mouth felt dry, but she did her best to smile and coax her.


    Sang Rou¡¯s body suddenly stiffened, as if she had finally seen light at the end of the tunnel. That¡¯s right, how did she never thought of it before? She was sure that if she were to bring this up to her father, he would at least care for her a little. Even though he may be scrooge, his reputation was almost as important!


    ¡°Perhaps,¡± Sang Rou gasped for breath and snorted, ¡°But I¡¯m just not sure if I can wait until then!¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Rou is still young, what are you saying!¡±


    ¡°Young?¡± That word must have hit Sang Rou¡¯s sore spot and her tone became bitter, ¡°Have you seen a missy who isn¡¯t matchmade yet at the age of neen?¡±


    Sang Wan was stunned. She was at her wit¡¯s end as she looked wide-eyed at her. What a person, that had nothing to do with her, so why vent it all on her!


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Sister Sang Wan!¡± Sang Rou sensed that she had lost her ownposure and quickly sped Sang Wan¡¯s hand, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, so sorry! I didn¡¯t mean to, you, don¡¯t me me, please!¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head, ¡°How can I me my cousin!¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good. I knew you had always been one who had a big heart,¡± Sang Rou then smiled without worry before giving Sang Wan a few morepliments. She added on, ¡°Ah yes, I don¡¯t know if the Shi familycks any servants. My good sister, why don¡¯t you try talking to my father and have me be a servant of the Shi family! We¡¯re sisters, I¡¯m sure I can be of help to you!¡±


    Sang Wan became speechless. She nced at Sang Rou and saw a face full of expectations. Only then did she realize why Sang Rou tried to get closer to her.


    Just that¡ª¡ª


    Isn¡¯t this illogical!


    Powerless, Sang Wan thought to herself.


    They were cousins, and their fathers were born from the same mother to be close brothers! To go to the Shi family and be a servant, what a stunt!


    ¡°How can I do that, you¡¯re my sister, how can I make you a servant of the Shi family!¡± Sang Wan quicklyughed. Under Sang Rou¡¯s re, like a tiger eyeing greedily at its prey, she found it somewhat difficult to cope with where the conversation was heading.


    ¡°Then I won¡¯t be a lowly servant, but be one of those in the management or anything else!¡± Sang Rou¡¯s eyes glistened even brighter than before, ¡°Doesn¡¯t a huge household like the Shi family have a household department of some sort? I, will surely side with you on everything!¡±


    Sang Wan became even more speechless than before and could only smile, ¡°At this moment, my mother-inw is the one in-charge of the household. Moreover, the management servants are those born in the Shi household and worked in the house for many years to climb up to their position. Besides, a management servant is still a servant, how can I turn my own cousin into an insult! If others were to know, they¡¯ll surely mock at it!¡±

 Chapter 63 (V2): Miss Gu is Truly an Unfortunate One

    <h4>Chapter 63 (V2): Miss Gu is Truly an Unfortunate One</h4>


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind, it doesn¡¯t matter, it really doesn¡¯t matter!¡± Sang Rou anxiously spoke, ¡°Then how about, you just say that I¡¯m ass whom you bought, and we keep our rtionship a secret? Good sister, let¡¯s just go with that, help me out! Please? My good sister!¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but secretly feel angry. Deep down, she sneered: Keep our rtionship hidden? Is that possible with Sang Rou¡¯s personality? She may be saying that now, but deep down she would definitely want to tell someone about it! And when things be exposed, she would definitely push it aside and act as if she did not know!


    ¡°That won¡¯t be possible!¡± Sang Wan scorned lightly. With a firmer expression, she spoke coldly, ¡°If word got out, what next? Surely others would say I, Sang Wan, is ruthless to even turn my sister into an insult! That reputation is not something I can afford to carry! Cousin Sang Rou, let¡¯s stop with this!¡±


    Sang Rou became disappointed, but without giving up, sheughed, ¡°Yes, yes, I was the one who didn¡¯t think properly, I hadn¡¯t thought properly! Sister Sang Wan, please don¡¯t be angry! Then how about the Shi family¡¯s business? Their business is veryrge, right? Maybe you could introduce me to one of their shops that needs a female worker. I promise to work with integrity and never mention our rtionship!¡± As she spoke, she pleaded painstakingly, ¡°My good sister, I just wish to use my own capabilities to earn myself a bowl of rice! Really! I¡¯ll never bring shame to you!¡±


    She still wanted to carry on! Sang Wan was slowly bing impatient and she pushed it aside, ¡°I don¡¯t understand anything about business, and I also don¡¯t know what job will be suitable for Cousin Sang Rou! What¡¯s more, will Second Uncle and Second Aunt agree to it? After all, they are your parents!¡±


    In an instant, that thoroughly broke Sang Rou¡¯s hopeful heart! She was right, so long as her father and that ¡°Mother¡± was around, she would never seed no matter what she did!


    Her father only had money in his eyes, leading him with money might fool him into agreeing, but that ¡°Mother¡± of hers, Sang Rou knew there was no way of fooling her!


    ¡°Damned girl, where did you die to! Roll back home and start cooking! There¡¯s still a lot more chores waiting to be done, and there you go cking off! Are you waiting for your mother to serve you from behind! Running off when I¡¯m not paying you any attention, are you in the heat or what!¡±


    Li Shi¡¯s words were coarse as she scolded from the courtyard. Her anger could be felt as her heavy stomps sounded from outside.


    Is that something an elder should say? Sang Wan secretly felt angry for Sang Rou and looked at her. However, all she saw was Sang Rou standing up in fear and trepidation with a face full of anxiety.


    The anger than Sang Wan felt for her instantly vanished. It could not be helped. Even though Sang Wan was sympathetic with her sufferings, she wasrgely more infuriated at her indifference!


    Before Fang Shi could react, Li Shi had already rushed in. She grabbed Sang Rou¡¯s ear and scolded for a moment, only to realize Sang Wan was also present which startled her. After making certain that it really was Sang Wan, she pushed Sang Rou aside before smiling towards Sang Wan, ¡°Oh, Sang Wan, you¡¯re back! I¡¯m not dreaming, right?¡± She rolled her eyes at Fang Shi who appeared at her and smiled coldly, ¡°Why didn¡¯t youe and visit your Second Uncle and Second Aunt since you¡¯re back? Have you soared too high up a branch that you now look down on your elders!¡±


    Sang Rou hurriedly tried to force herself to gain some favors, ¡°I came in just to invite Sister Sang Wan over to our house!¡±


    Sang Wan could only smile, ¡°That¡¯s not it! Second Aunt, I was just about to head over!¡±


    Li Shi grunted and red at Sang Rou with eyes that showed that the favor was all for naught before grinning at Sang Wan, ¡°Keke, I knew our Sang Wan is the most filial and respectful towards the elders! If not for someone stopping you, you would already be there by now!¡±


    Li Shi spoke as she gave a glimpse at Fang Shi.


    ¡°Oh, is Second Aunt saying it was me!¡± Fang Shi smiled, ¡°Second Aunt should first back those words up with evidence. Am I not busy making lunch with Nanny Xu, and there I was nning to invite Second Uncle and Second Aunt over for lunch. Now that Second Aunt said so, I¡¯m not feeling too happy!¡±


    Li Shi sniffed as hard as she could, and there, a the thick aroma of the chicken soup travelled up her nose which made her happy and she quickly smiled, ¡°Hai, I¡¯m not pointing at you! You and Sang Hong would never disrespect your elders! The one I¡¯m talking about is that damned girl!¡±


    Li Shi turned and pushed Sang Rou in the forehead with a finger before scolding harshly, ¡°What¡¯re you still here for! Waiting for New Year? Go invite your father and your sister toe and have lunch! As for you, just eat something and get to work. The vegetable field at East Longtou still needs ploughing! Always idling around, do you expect rice to drop from the sky?¡±


    Sang Rou was extremely maddened deep inside but she dared not go against Li Shi. All she could was lift her eyes slightly to give a quick pleading look at Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan acted as if she had not seen it and lowered her head to have a sip from her cup of tea. This was her brother and sister-inw¡¯s house; she was in no position to have anyone stay.


    Moreover, she did not wish to intervene with matters belonging to the Second Sang family.


    Seeing that Sang Wan did not see her expression, she was secretly disappointed, but before Li Shi¡¯s second round of scolding, she quickly fled from the ce.


    ¡°Sang Wan, if I may ask, why are you back all of a sudden? Is there something you wish to give us?¡± Li Shi smiled and sat. She was about to ask Fang Shi to pour her a cup of tea, but when she looked up, she found that Fang Shi had already returned back into the kitchen.


    She did not dare let Sang Wan pour the tea for her, neither did she dare to order Liu Ya to do so. She made a few coughing noise, but Liu Ya did not seem to understand her bodynguage and so she had to pour a cup by herself. In her heart, she secretly scolded: Useless servant. Not even smart at all!


    Hearing that statement had no longer any effect on Sang Wan anymore. There was really no use to get mad at them.


    She smiled a little and said gently, ¡°I had some business to attend to. And since I was travelling past Yangliu Town, I decided toe pay a visit!¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh! What is it?¡± Li Shi smiled and asked curiously.


    Sang Wan lifted her eyes and smiled again, ¡°The courtyard gate at Second Aunt¡¯s house was closed tightly, so I thought Second Uncle and Second Aunt weren¡¯t home!¡±


    Li Shi saw that she had asked something which she should not have and immediately stopped her tongue before smiling at Sang Wan to engage in a small talk.


    Soon afterwards, Second Old Master Sang and Sang Yan arrived. Fang Shi came out of the kitchen to announce that lunch was ready and everyone sat to eat together.


    Sang Wan ordered Nanny Xu to pick up tworge chicken drumsticks for the two children, Sang Quan and Sang Nuan, but that immediately caught Li Shi¡¯s eyes and she picked up one for herself and hurriedly picked the other for Sang Yan, ¡°Eat, eat!¡±


    The elderly couple was like a hurricane and in front of them quickly piled a mound of chicken bones that were cleaned off their meat and some that were not. Sang Yan secretly nced at the graceful Sang Wan who was eating unhurriedly and then at her own father and mother. Her heart immediately felt embarrassed and the rice and meat that was in her mouth turned hard to chew.


    Sang Wan had sessfullypleted what Wang Shi had tasked her to do and she returned to report. Hearing the news that her sister-inw would being for the wedding, Wang Shi did not give it many thoughts and was instead very ted to hear so. With a huge smile, she praised Fang Shi for being too polite and told Sang Wan to wee her properly when the timees.


    Sang Wan promised.


    Who knew just two dayster, the servant who followed Gu Fangzi home would return wearing a simple white clothing and hairpin. Lan Xiang came crying back, ¡°Old Master Gu has passed away!¡±


    Wang Shi and Sang Wan were both shocked by the news. But of course what the two felt other than shock were different.


    Gu Jin is dead?


    ¡°How did it happen! He, wasn¡¯t he still fine? So how did he pass away so suddenly?¡± Wang Shi stuttered.


    Lan Xiang sobbed and said, ¡°Yesterday, Old Master Gu became drunk and he fell. His head hit a stone b and, and he died!¡±


    ¡°Aiyo!¡± Wang Shi rubbed her forehead, ¡°How can that happen, how can that happen!¡±


    Seeing Wang Shi¡¯s spiritless expression and Lan Xiang¡¯s everflowing tears, Sang Wan could only say what she had to, ¡°Mother, the deceased is of importance, it will be better to think about how this funeral should be handled! How many others are there in the Gu family? Cousin Fangzi is still young and must not have experienced such a major event before. I¡¯m sure she must be feeling anxious and unsure what to do!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, you¡¯re right!¡± Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Let the household department bring a few servants over to help. Whatever the cost for the preparation, just use as much as it needs! There¡¯s not a single one left in the Gu family that¡¯s reliable! Nanny Jiang, arrange a few elderly maidservants to apany Fangzi andfort her!¡± Turning to Lan Xiang, she ordered, ¡°It¡¯s okay, don¡¯t cry. You may go now. Later, follow the household department back and serve your missy well! Understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, this servant understands! Our Missy says that once this matter is handled, she¡¯lle again to kowtow!¡± Lan Xian kowtowed and left. Nanny Jiang also left to handle the arrangements.


    ¡°What an unfortunate day!¡± Wang Shi sighed with emotions. The heart of an elderly is the most easily shaken by the death of others, even if it were the hated Gu Jin, Wang Shi could not help but let a few drops of tears down her cheeks.


    Sang Wan quickly went up tofort her, and together with Nanny Li, the two apanied Wang Shi toment for a while.


    ¡°Missy, this is all fate, you, don¡¯t have to think too much about it!¡± Now that Wang Shi¡¯s emotions had calmed a little, Nanny Li gave a fewforting words before switching the subject, ¡°So what do you say, what should we do! Miss Gu¡¯s wedding, should we still go with it or not?¡±


    That, how could she forget about it!


    Wang Shi¡¯s brows knitted together. She was now put in a difficult situation.


    There was no such thing as a woman marrying into another family right after her father passed away! The heavens would not allow it!


    ¡°What else!¡± Wang Shi sighed and forced herself to say it, ¡°Halt it! Stop the preparations! Otherwise, we might be a joke to others! Now that something like this had happened, continuing with the preparation is beyond presentable!¡±


    ¡°Yes, then this old servant shall go and put everything to a stop!¡± Nanny Li sighed and added, ¡°That Miss Gu, truly is very unfortunate!¡±


    Wang Shi touched her heart and recalled when Gu Fangzi lost her mother when she was young. Now when she was about to get married, her father passed away. Really, all the unfortunate events were carried on her shoulders, and Wang Shi nodded, ¡°You¡¯re right, Fangzi¡¯s life really is bitter!¡±


    Nanny Li, intentionally or otherwise, spoke, ¡°I truly hope that in the future when she marries in, the young master¡¯s good fortune will be able to cleanse her entirely!¡±


    Wang Shi was stunned and her expression suddenly changed. ¡°A child of disaster¡±, those four words subconsciously floated in Wang Shi¡¯s mind and it naturally made her link it with an ¡°unfortunate couple¡±.


    ¡°Enough, I wish to be alone, you may all leave.¡± Wang Shi calmed herself and instructed without any hesitation, ¡°Have all that I said handled properly, this matter will be put on hold and discussed in the future!¡±


    Even though there were many scruples in her heart, Gu Fangzi was a niece who grew up in the household and was by her side for many years. She loved her dearly and was thus unable to throw her away.

 Chapter 64 (V2): To Actually Want Me Mourn For Three Years

    <h4>Chapter 64 (V2): To Actually Want Me Mourn For Three Years</h4>


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Nanny Li responded and withdrew. Her words had no intentions of selfishly destroying Gu Fangzi¡¯s image, but because she was truly concerned about it. If Gu Fangzi¡¯s life was too dominant, then whoever she was with would end up miserable. If so, what would happen to her young master? There were so many good women to choose from under the sky to be his concubine;with that many for the young master to pick at random, why did it had to be Gu Fangzi?


    Seeing the situation, Sang Wan also followed and withdrew.


    ¡°Oh, also,¡± Wang Shi stopped them, ¡°Send Fengju a letter. Tell him that the marriage will not proceed so there won¡¯t be any need for him to hurry and he can handle what he has to beforeing back! Oh, and don¡¯t tell him about the Gu family¡¯s matter yet! He wouldn¡¯t be of any help even if we told him!¡±


    Sang Wan and Nanny Li epted. In their mind, their thoughts were the same: Things are about to get troublesome!


    But who would have thought that by the time a letter was sent, they instead received a message from Shi Fengju even though their letter was presumed to still be on the way to him!


    It was not a written message, but a message by the word of mouth. Qian He reported that the young master had hurried over to Gu Fangzi¡¯s house and will be back in a few days.


    Once Wang Shi was done listening, her expression changed into an unsightly one. She became silent for a while before asking bitterly, ¡°How did your young master know about the Gu family¡¯s matter?¡±


    Qian He saw the change in expression of the old mistress¡¯s face and his body stiffened as he braced himself with a smile, ¡°Erm, uh, Miss Gu sent someone to await the young master at Qingzhou Wharf. After reading Miss Gu¡¯s letter, he hurriedly hired a carriage to rush over there and let this servant report back to Old Mistress...¡±


    Wang Shi red at Qian He and snapped, ¡°What a capable person he is! He¡¯s already this close to home yet he doesn¡¯t even bother to see his mother first! If he isn¡¯t here, then what¡¯re you back for? Leave! Scram!¡±


    Qian He did not seem frightened, but he dared not voice his grievance. Crawling up, he turned and fled.


    ¡°Mother, calm down a little,¡± Sang Wan smiled and coaxed, ¡°Old Master Gu is, in the end, a rtive; not going over to show concern would be unreasonable. He got the news in a rush, and noting back first must have been unintentional! Also, he sent Qian He back to report that he had arrived safely! You¡¯re his mother, there¡¯s no one other than you in his heart!¡±


    Those words calmed Wang Shi¡¯s heart and she could not help but look at Sang Wan before sighing, ¡°Sang Wan, you really are a good daughter-inw. It¡¯s fortunate that you¡¯re here, otherwise, I might have already died of anger!¡±


    ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t say that!¡± Sang Wanughed, ¡°Sang Wan has always been taken care by Mother, and had never done anything for Mother. If Mother says so, Sang Wan will feel ashamed!¡±


    Wang Shi smiled, ¡°Mother really likes your gentle temperament. It always makes mefortable in the heart! Oh well, Mother isn¡¯t angry anymore! With such a good daughter-inw, what¡¯s there to be furious about! I¡¯m alright now, you may return. I wish to have some time alone!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled, ¡°Then, please rest well Mother! I¡¯ve still got to send someone to bring Lord¡¯s luggage in, and when he returns, I¡¯ll make a fuss over it!¡±


    What a good wife! Wang Shi¡¯s smile became even broader and she quickly advised, ¡°Don¡¯t tire yourself out, let the servants handle it!¡±


    Sang Wan agreed and left with a smile.


    Some time ago, Shi Fengju¡¯s fleet had things to do at Jinling and stopped there. But he never expected to receive a letter urging him to return home before August the sixth to marry Gu Fangzi into the family!


    ¡°Damned!¡± Shi Fengju could not help but stomp his foot. His first thought was not about Gu Fangzi, but Sang Wan. What would Sang Wan be thinking, was she alright?


    He had made a promise to her, an agreement tost a year with each other. But now with his Mother wanting to marry his cousin to him, how can he face Sang Wan?


    Shi Fengju burned with anxiety and immediately gave some instructions to his treasurer who was apanying him. After he was done, he took a few servants with him and a light luggage before rushing back to Qingzhou.


    The thought of how Sang Wan must be feeling, his heart became even more anxious and he sat restlessly. Really, if he could, he would have grown a pair of wings and immediately flew straight home.


    Little did he expect to encounter an official¡¯s ship on the way which forced him to wait two days in vain for the ship to pass before his ship lined with the other civilian ships could cross slowly.


    One dy after another made his mood even more restless than before.


    Once his ship finally leaned by the pier of Qingzhou, Shi Fengju¡¯s restless heart finally calmed down and his thoughts now beganing up with how he should speak with Sang Wan and what they should do after.


    From here, things began to turn even more dramatic and unexpected than before!


    Shi Fengju never thought that Gu Fangzi would actually send someone to wait for him at the wharf, and even more so a letter written by her!


    In the letter, Gu Fangzi narrated how sad she was for the loss, and as Shi Fengju read it, he could somewhat imagine her tearful expression as well as her grief-stricken face. There was no way he could ignore her, and thus, he sent someone to report home while he hired a carriage to Gu Fangzi¡¯s house with Zhan Huan and a few others apanying him.


    Gu Jin was a good-for-nothing and rarely came into contact with the rest of his rtives. The fields had long been sold and the Gu family¡¯s rtives saw nothing worth to seize except for the orphan, Gu Fangzi. But with the Shi family backing her, they dared not touch anything belonging to her! Therefore, they were sloppy with the funeral arrangements. If not for the Shi family¡¯s household department and several other Shi family¡¯s servants, those rtives would have long disappeared and would not have offered their diligence for the funeral preparations to be caught up with!


    Even though she long knew those bunch of rtives were unreliable, during such dreary time, she was able to experience it and her heart felt extremely chilly!


    So this was what others called rtives!


    If not for the Shi family, she dared not imagine what would be of herself and what she would have to go through! Perhaps, there was a possibility that they might team up and set a trap to sell her off.


    Gu Fangzi felt a chill down her spine! After the painful thought, it strengthened her determination to hold on tightly to the Shi family which was like a huge tree.


    When Shi Fengju arrived at the Gu family¡¯s house, the preparations were going well with the help of the Shi family¡¯s household department. Seeing so, Shi Fengju secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    On the next day after Gu Jin¡¯s funeral, all the rtives dispersed.


    In the humble house, there was only Gu Fangzi, who was in white, and Shi Fengju, as well as the members sent by the Shi family.


    ¡°Management Liu, have someonee and refurbish this ce a little. Buy whatever that needs to be bought and have a capable maidservant toe stay with Miss Gu. Double that servant¡¯s pay, and charge all those additional expenses to me.¡± Shi Fengju nced at the four walls of the Gu family¡¯s house and sighed to himself.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s body stiffened. She nced at Management Liu and the rest before speaking gently, ¡°Please go out first!¡±


    The crowd withdrew. As tears flowed from her eyes, she called out, ¡°Big Cousin!¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t be sad!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart tightened and he somewhat felt a tingling feeling at the top of his head.


    ¡°How can I not be,¡± Gu Fangzi choked on her tears, ¡°I¡¯m now left with nothing, even Big Cousin doesn¡¯t want me anymore. What use is there to be alive!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that!¡± Shi Fengju was startled and quickly said, ¡°Fang¡¯er, I¡¯ve said that!¡±


    ¡°But your actions showed it!¡± Gu Fangzi sobbed, ¡°Otherwise, why would you instruct Management Liu to do so?¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled bitterly, ¡°Fangzi, what wild imaginations are you having? This ce is so run down, how are you supposed to live here? And you also have to observe mourning¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it arranged to have me married into the family in early August?¡± Gu Fangzi raised her head and looked at him tearily before asking.


    Shi Fengju hesitated for a moment and spoke awkwardly, ¡°Fangzi, your father just passed away recently. With that, how can you still proceed with the marriage?¡±


    ¡°So what you mean is that I have to mourn for three years?¡± A glint could be seen in Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes and she gazed deep into his.


    Shi Fengju quickly added, ¡°Three years will be over quickly! Fangzi, I promise, I will marry you in after three years¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes lit up and his heart felt somewhat relieved. He subconsciously thought of the three years. After those three years, Sang Wan should have left the Shi family by then, right? He should be happy! But at this moment, that thought did not do so. On the contrary, he felt slightly depressed.


    Gu Fangzi seemed to have heard the most ridiculous joke bestowed by the heavens, and sheughed indifferently before stating bitterly, ¡°Big Cousin, three years, three years! Do you know how old I will be after three years! I, how can I wait three years!¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er...¡± Shi Fengju felt strange, like someone in his heart was somehow shattered. The cousin in front of him seemed like a stranger, to a point he was sure he had never met her before.


    ¡°Uncle is your father. If you don¡¯t be filial and mourn for him, do you think you¡¯re being reasonable?¡±


    ¡°He is not!¡± Gu Fangzi eximed, ¡°I do not have such a father! I do not! He had never been a responsible father and never cared for my upbringing, so why must I be filial toward him? He killed my mother, and now, he wants to destroy my entire life! I hate him, I hate him!¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, calm down a little!¡± Shi Fengju quickly wrapped his arm around her shoulders, ¡°Fang¡¯er, you mustn¡¯t say that! No matter how irresponsible he was, he is still your father. A man dies like a candle going out, so don¡¯t say anymore! If others were to hear you, they will judge you!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care! I don¡¯t care at all!¡± Gu Fangzi lunged into his arms and broke out in tears. Hugging him tightly, she cried, ¡°I only care about you, only you! So Big Cousin, you cannot not have me, you cannot!¡±


    ¡°I never said I don¡¯t want you, I never.¡± Shi Fengju murmured. His raised hand patted her on the back, but he could not detect his inability of the situation.


    ¡°Then marry me! At August the sixth!¡± Gu Fangzi lifted her head that was deep in his embrace and wiped away her tears to show her glistening eyes, ¡°We can marry within the 100 days. It¡¯s not like that has never happened before!¡±


    Shi Fengju suddenly froze.


    He had not expected Gu Fangzi to suggest this.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, if,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s voice was somewhat weak, ¡°if I say that I will wait for you for three years, and after that period, I will marry you and make you my wife, will you agree? Will you agree to wait?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s hope rose from his heart all the way to his eyes as he waited nervously for Gu Fangzi¡¯s answer.


    Gu Fangzi noticed the strangeness in his expression and took it that he was trying to deceive her heart and she became infuriated deep down. Looking at him grudgingly, she spoke softly, ¡°Big Cousin, I¡¯ve always known that you were engaged, and know that your wife in this lifetime will never be me. But, what does that matter! I love you from the deepest part of my heart! And I also know that your heart is true to me! With that, I¡¯m already satisfied!¡±

 Chapter 65 (V2): I’ve Never Forgotten Our Promise But You’ve Never Once Believed In Me

    <h4>Chapter 65 (V2): I¡¯ve Never Forgotten Our Promise But You¡¯ve Never Once Believed In Me</h4>


    She still didn¡¯t believe him! Having been in love for so many years, how could she not believe in him and not understand his character! Shi Fengju¡¯s heart felt empty and there was a huge sense of disappointment which he could not speak about. He was not ready to give up, and he asked again, ¡°Fang¡¯er, I¡¯m speaking the truth! We can think of a solution together, I believe it¡¯ll be possible! After three years, I¡¯ll marry you as my wife!¡±


    There was no way Gu Fangzi would believe in his words, and she saw those words as a way of him trying to dy tying the knot with her! Three years? She sneered to herself, who knows what would happen in three years! Even the flowers of a long yellow daylily would have already withered!


    If she were to follow with the mourning, she would have to stay in this courtyard. Even the Shi household was a ce she could not go! There was this saying that the tea cools when the person walks away. Who knows, he might have already forgotten who she was after three years.


    But she had to hold on to him tightly, to have him by her side.


    ¡°Big Cousin, I really never desired the position to be your wife, really! I¡¯m already satisfied to be able to be with you, even if I were to be a concubine! I¡¯ll surely get along well with Sister Sang Wan, and not make it difficult for you!¡± Gu Fangzi spoke pitifully, ¡°Big Cousin, don¡¯t tell me you are worried that an orphan like me can spark any kind of trouble? That won¡¯t happen! If someone could take me in and shelter me from the wind and the rain, I, I¡¯m already contented!¡±


    As she spoke, tears began to fall again.


    Shi Fengju stared at her nkly, with a heart entirely at a loss.


    She was satisfied, she said she was satisfied with just being a concubine!


    However, he was not. He loved her, and did not wish for her to suffer. He wished for her to stand on an equal footing with him as they join hands together until death! And when that timees, they would enter the ancestral temple together and enjoy the worship of their future generations! And not have her name be engraved as just a concubine! He, Shi Fengju,cked no servants, nor did the Shi household!


    ¡°Big Cousin...¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er,¡± Shi Fengju sighed and said softly, ¡°There¡¯s something I¡¯m not sure if you¡¯ll believe me or not, but I¡¯ve never done anything to Sang Wan. She and I have made an agreement to separate after a year and void the marriage. If, if you¡¯re willing to wait after the three-year mourning, I can really marry you as my wife.¡±


    Gu Fangzi was stunned and she looked at Shi Fengju, whose face was pale as if he had seen a ghost.


    The moment Shi Fengju said it, he secretly regretted! How could he have said it! If word were to spread and turned into some nonsensical gossip, how would Sang Wan continue to live? And what would his Shi family¡¯s reputation be!


    ¡°What? What did you say?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes stared straight at him with a stunned expression that did not change.


    But she could not be med for that because that news was shocking for her as well! How could that be!


    Shi Fengju coughed a little strangely and shunned his eyes from her gaze before speaking unnaturally, ¡°That, nothing, it¡¯s up to you to believe it or not!¡±


    If Gu Fangzi truly understood Shi Fengju, then she would have known that his expression now was definitely him telling the truth. However, with her mind all set for her own future, she was not in the right mind to discern between a lie and a truth.


    Seeing Shi Fengju trying to close the topic and evading her eyes, Gu Fangzi immediately deemed that his heart was guilty¡ª¡ªguilty for trying to deceive her!


    Gu Fangzi felt anger slowly sipping into her head. Just to dy this marriage, he could even say something as iprehensible as that! A man¡¯s heart really changes easily! Gu Fangzi felt regretful, regretful of holding herself back at that time. She should have done something irreversible with him before Sang Wan was married in.


    ¡°Big Cousin, I¡¯m really serious, everything I¡¯m saying is from the heart!¡± Gu Fangzi sobbed with tears, ¡°I swear, I only want to stay by your side, even as a concubine, I¡¯m willing to! I will not snatch what belongs to Sister Sang Wan or whatsoever, really!¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, is that really from your heart?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s voice was like his expression now, empty and fluttery, and the feeling in his heart felt even moreplex!


    This was the woman whom he loved, whom he appreciated for many years, and the one he looked forward to grow old together with! Turns out, she only wanted to be a concubine.


    The sense of greatness he had for her was gone, and all he sensed was disappointment.


    ¡°Yes, they¡¯re all from my heart! I can swear!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly nodded.


    ¡°Okay then!¡± Shi Fengju gave a glimpse at her before nodding with a sigh, ¡°I understand!¡±


    ¡°Then, you¡¯ll promise me?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes glistened.


    ¡°En!¡± Shi Fengju nodded gently. From this moment on, she was his concubine and nothing more!


    Gu Fangzi grinned from ear to ear and wrapped her arms around Shi Fengju¡¯s, ¡°Big Cousin, I knew you care about me, that you won¡¯t throw me away! Big Cousin...¡±


    Shi Fengju leaned his head to a side and looked at her. The storm in his eyes had finally quietened. The kind of feeling when his heart would skip a beat had vanished entirely.


    On the next day, Shi Fengju returned to the Shi household. Gu Fangzi personally saw him off. Reluctant to part from him, she spoke, ¡°Big Cousin, don¡¯t forget your promise!¡±


    Shi Fengju thought to himself: I have never once forgotten our promise, but you, you¡¯ve never once believed in me!


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡± He gave a faint smile and left.


    The Shi family¡¯s main gate was right in front. Shi Fengju rubbed the back of his head that was throbbing badly and walked through it as he shook his head.


    Wang Shi was dissatisfied with her son¡¯s behavior for rushing over to Gu Fangzi¡¯s ce withouting home first. But seeing his seething expression, she held back her retort and remained silent. Without a choice Shi Fengju had to coax her for a long while before she turned happy again.


    ¡°How¡¯s Fangzi?¡± Finally, Wang Shi sighed and asked. Although annoyed, she was still concerned about Gu Fangzi.


    Shi Fengju summarized the situation there.


    It was not much different from how Wang Shi expected and she let out a few sighs before letting it pass.


    ¡°It¡¯s good you¡¯re back! Go and see Sang Wan quickly and rest well! Having to rush all the way back after a few busy days must have worn you out!¡± Wang Shi spoke.


    ¡°Mother, there¡¯s something I wish to ask.¡± Shi Fengju said, ¡°The letter you wrote to me saying something about early August¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Take it like it didn¡¯t happen!¡± Wang Shi waved, ¡°Now that something huge has happened, we cannot proceed with it! Once Gu Fangzi finished mourning, we¡¯ll talk about it!¡± Right now, Wang Shi did not wish to be reminded of it. What¡¯s more, it was even more awkward that her son was the one raising it up.


    ¡°No,¡± Shi Fengju said, ¡°We¡¯ll go with it! 6th of August, I¡¯ll marry her!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Wang Shi stared wide-eyed at her son. In shock, she spoke, ¡°You, you say to marry her on the 6th of August? That, isn¡¯t that¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Cousin isn¡¯t young anymore. Three years,¡± Shi Fengju raised his heavy lips and spoke half-jokingly, ¡°is too long, she can¡¯t wait that long!¡±


    At that instant, Wang Shi became speechless. And only after a while did she finally spoke, ¡°Since you said that, then Fangzi must also be thinking the same! Alright! Then marry her before a hundred days it is! Marrying into the family early is also good, at least she can be looked after! But I¡¯ll make this clear, only after three years can you do the deed! This custom cannot be ignored since the deceased is after all her father!¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Shi Fengju nodded.


    ¡°Also, as for Sang Wan, you tell her yourself!¡± Wang Shi felt somewhat listless. Her heart wondered how things had ended up to where it was now. Truly, it makes her feel ufortable and anxious.


    ¡°En!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart tightened but he could only nod without a choice, ¡°For the other matters, I¡¯ll leave it to Mother to handle.¡±


    As he said that, Nanny Li had already hurried over after hearing that Shi Fengju had returned. Upon seeing her, Wang Shi saw that it was a coincidence andughed, ¡°That is all handled by Nanny Li, you can just tell her!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled, and after greeting Nanny Li, he told her about the matter.


    Nanny Li was first startled, but scolded deep in her heart soon after: That woman¡¯s conscience must have really been eaten by a dog! Her father just passed away and there she goes, eager to get married! She¡¯s not afraid of the difficult life ahead of her, but what would happen if that were to spew to the young master!


    However, those words were only thought in her head and were never said bluntly to Wang Shi. Since Wang Shi had already agreed to it, and looking at the young master¡¯s attitude, she could only swallow those words into her stomach. Fortunately, the deed can only be done after three years!


    ¡°Since she will be marrying before the mourning, and also as a concubine, I think it should not to be stressed upon. We¡¯ll not hold any banquet! When the timees, we¡¯ll just send one small sedan chair there to carry her here! If it¡¯s held too extravagantly, others might gossip about it.¡±


    The way Nanny Li said it, the sedan chair might as well be sent at night to carry Gu Fangzi here and then lock her up in Peony Park, never to allow her to step a foot out.


    ¡°Also, Peony Park there, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll have to reorganize it. There are many things before that are now inappropriate. After all, she still has to mourn and there are many customs to abide by and to shun from! The deceased are of importance, they cannot be disrespected and cannot be paid any less attention to! If the ghosts turn angry, then things will be difficult!¡±


    Wang Shi could not help but ce her hands together and prayed before saying hurriedly, ¡°Sister is no doubt thoughtful! I know you¡¯re the most reliable, so lets go with it! Also, if you see fit, maybe clear out a room to put Gu Jin¡¯s tablet to let Fangzi pay her respect to him from morning to night.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! That¡¯s a must!¡± Nanny Li nodded, ¡°This old servant will have someone clear out a room in Peony Park! Then when Miss Gu enters the family, she can conduct her mourning without dy!¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu,¡± this way of calling Gu Fangzi by Nanny Li reminded Wang Shi and she said, ¡°Ah yes! Since the deed won¡¯t be done, when Fangzi enters, there¡¯ll be no change in the way to address her!¡±


    ¡°Absolutely! That should be so!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s smile became even broader.


    The two of them, master and servant, spoke with rationality that Shi Fengju found no way to interrupt. Moreover, he himself did not even know what to say if he were to do so! Hasn¡¯t she already given up?


    Once the arrangements were spoken clearly, they each left their separate ways. Nanny Li went to have a servant head to Peony Park, and as for Shi Fengju, he was hesitant to return to Ning Garden.


    At this moment, Sang Wan was simply oblivious. Her mood was now calm and quiet.


    ¡°Young Master has returned!¡± The moment she was informed by a servant, she quickly brought a few others along to wee him. With a smile, she guided Shi Fengju into the house before instructing the servants to bring a basin of water and a cup of tea.


    Shi Fengju could not help but feel somewhat rxed and went to look at her. The woman in front of him wore a casual wear with a simple hairpin in her hair. For her clothes, her chestnut-colored top was embroidered with golden brown bluegrass, matching with an ivory white bottom wear. Her posture was graceful and her behavior was considerate. Like a shining star, her shallow smile was unimaginably natural and unforgettable.


    ¡°En, it must have been hard for you at home!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and nodded.


    Sang Wan glimpsed at him before she spoke in a way that she was either being serious or joking, ¡°Just listen to what Lord said! There¡¯s a saying that it feels good to stay at home thousands of days but leaving for a day is difficult. Why would it be hard for me! It should be Lord who had it hard, having to travel must have made you weary, but I see that Lord¡¯s expression seems to be quite good!¡±

 Chapter 66 (V2): You Make Me Disappointed

    <h4>Chapter 66 (V2): You Make Me Disappointed</h4>


    Shi Fengju was taken aback and could not help but gaze deeply at her. But seeing that her expression remained the same, heughed secretly to himself: What am I thinking! She didn¡¯t stay in the Shi family because wanted to, she¡¯s slowly counting down to the day when she can finally leave. To say that her words were with jealousy? I must have taken a wrong medicine today!


    After washing his hands and face, and changing his clothes, the tea arrived and Shi Fengju signaled with his eyes to have the maidservants withdraw from the room.


    Sang Wan¡¯s hand suddenly clutched the handkerchief tightly. She knew what he was going to say. These few days, the household was busily gossiping about it. Was it all not because of what was about toe?


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± When the conversation reached this point, Shi Fengju prepared himself a few times before squeezing out Sang Wan¡¯s name with difficulty, but the words after became stuck at his throat.


    ¡°En?¡± Sang Wan gently looked at him. Her white and delicate face had a soft glow which was ever beautiful.


    If he was not anxious, then even more so for her!


    ¡°The matter with Fangzi...¡± Shi Fengju sighed before cutting his words off again.


    Sang Wan nodded her head before shaking it again and giving him a faint smile, ¡°I know. That was all Mother making the decision and it has nothing to do with you, so I don¡¯t me you. But what I want to know is ¡ª¡ª what will you do?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart sank. He knew she was reminding him of their promise, the promise which he agreed to; the promise made between them.


    This made him feel even more down!


    Sang Wan saw the troubled look on his face and she could not help but giggle before smiling, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to feel guilty about, really! It didn¡¯t have anything to do with you! You are a man of your words, and I believe that you will not deceive a littledy like me! Moreover, hasn¡¯t it already passed? You must have heard from Mother that it would have to be postponed until Cousin Fangzi finishes with mourning! Since that will be the case, it will not have any impact on our promise. I¡¯m also grateful because this would save our Sang family¡¯s and my reputation.¡±


    It seems everything is God¡¯s will! Sang Wan did not dare say it but she secretly added that sentence in her heart.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Hearing those words made Shi Fengju even more guilty and his tongue became heavier than before. He hated his present self! He was never indecisive, else there would be no way he could properly manage the Shi family¡¯s huge business. However, in the face of her gentle smile and tranquil expression, he could not bear to hurt it and was reluctant to do so.


    But what had to be said must be said! It was something that would happen sooner orter! Shi Fengju threw his heart to a side and ruthlessly broke her elegance, her clear gentleness, her self-esteem, and reputation in just one sentence.


    ¡°Sang Wan, that matter remains unchanged; Fangzi will enter the family in early August!¡±


    The smile on Sang Wan¡¯s face froze and the glisten in her eyes vanished. Her heart felt as if someone had shattered her heart with a heavy hammer. A rumble rang in both her ears and her mind went nk. Her vision of the person in front of her also turned blurry and she felt a slight wave of dizziness!


    ¡°You, what did you say?¡± Sang Wan strained to ask, ¡°Is, is she marrying in within a hundred day?¡±


    ¡°Is that your decision or Mother¡¯s?¡± With all her strength, she tried to clinch onto thest string of hope as it made a difference for her!


    However, she was madepletely disappointed. Although Shi Fengu¡¯s voice was soft, she could hear each and every word clearly. ¡°It was my decision.¡±


    Are you so eager, so eager that you cannot wait!


    Sang Wan clenched her fists tightly. She was doing her best to control her unhappiness. But what use was there to feeling unhappy? She had long been clear that even though they might have an agreement between themselves, it was never a fair one.


    The so-called fairness waspletely based on his actions. If he were willing to go with it until the end, then the promise would be effective. But if he were to break it, then that would be so. What can she do?


    Shi Fengju, you truly disappoint me! All these while, I was being too naive!


    ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m sorry!¡± As her face turned pale, Shi Fengju could tell that she was holding herself back and it made him feel ufortable. Especially since she was smiling so cheerfully and tenderly not too long ago with her trust entirely in him. However, that trust was destroyed in an instant!


    Shi Fengju suddenly felt bitter in his heart as he found the series of events ridiculous and ironic: The woman whom he hoped would put her trust in him had never once believed in him whereas the woman right in front of him ced her trust in him without a second doubt only to be brutally betrayed!


    ¡°Fangzi isn¡¯t young anymore, she can¡¯t wait any longer,¡± Shi Fengju tried to exin, ¡°But rest assured, if anyone treats you unfavorably or is rude to you, I¡¯ll surely bring that person to justice. Sang Wan, in this household, I will not let you suffer!¡±


    Sang Wan was sour without an end, but she was feeling even more embarrassed by the humiliation. She had always thought that he was different, but now, she knew she had always been wrong about him.


    Can I still believe you? Sang Wan did not ask because her heart had already given her the answer she was looking for.¡°If, the one to do that were her?¡± Sang Wan didn¡¯t know why but her mouth had already released that question.


    Shi Fengju was startled for a moment but he instantly replied firmly, ¡°She won¡¯t!.¡±


    Sang Wan acted as if she had not heard it and smiled, ¡°Congrattions to Lord! Lord finally has his wishe true after so many years, it truly is something worth celebrating!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled bitterly. He had never heard her use such a tone filled with ridicule before, but that made him feel even more guilty and apologetic.


    ¡°She¡¯s only entering the family, everything will still be the same as before.¡± Shi Fengju again tried to exin.


    But Sang Wan was in no mood to continue listening and she stood up before smiling, ¡°Lord, I¡¯ve already asked someone to bring your luggage to the study room. As for the other boxes, Nanny Li personally carried them in herself. We don¡¯t know what¡¯s in them so we didn¡¯t open them. In the future, please remember to bring someone along to unpack them! Oh yes, what would Lord wish to eat tonight? If there is, I¡¯ll have the kitchen prepare it early; if there isn¡¯t, then would Lord like to have the usual? Lord must be tired, so rest early tonight! I¡¯m afraid there must be something happening outside, Zhide that servant has been gazing over at this direction for quite a few times already!¡±


    Shi Fengju was suddenly turned bewildered.


    He could not help but think: Are women born with the gift of changing masks? Fangzi changed into someone so unfamiliar, and so did Sang Wan!


    ¡°Oh, then, please go ahead! I¡¯ll go to the study room first! For dinner, anything¡¯s fine, I¡¯m alright with anything, just choose what you like.¡± At this moment, there was an rming aura around Sang Wan which Shi Fengju had never seen before. However, his instincts of a businessman kicked in to tell him that the time now was best not to provoke her. Retreating now would be the best possible choice!


    ¡°Alright, I understand.¡± Sang Wan said with a faint voice.


    Shi Fengju managed a smile and withdrew embarrassedly.


    When it was time for dinner, Shi Fengju knew he should return to Ning Garden early to apany Sang Wan, but he did not have the courage to do so for his conscience was afraid to face her. In the end, he gave an excuse that there were things to do and he would eat in the study room instead so Sang Wan did not have to wait for him.


    Sang Wan wished for nothing more. Without a question, she instructed the kitchen to cook a few dishes and have them sent over to him before eating her delicious dinner calmly.


    After dinner, Shi Fengju had someone sent an entire set of travel notes that was thetest publication in the capital, saying that he had brought it specially for Sang Wan. Sang Wan passed a message of thanks and had a servant to receive it. Without any mood to read, she ordered the servant to put it at a side and she would read it when she had the time.


    The atmosphere in Ning Garden suddenly became strange. No one could tell what was strange, but everything seemed too normal! Especially their young master and young mistress, they were unusually normal which the servants could not help but take extra precaution and not dare to rx.


    ¡°Young Mistress, it¡¯s evident that the young master still has an eye for you!¡± Nanny Li smiled as she persuaded, ¡°Just look at that, the young master puts whatever you like to heart! The young master has just returned, so shouldn¡¯t Young Mistress care a little more for him? Why don¡¯t you bring these grapes to the study room? Then have a small conversation with him! These were picked fresh today from a farm!¡±


    ¡°Nanny, have Liu Ya or Zhide, or anyone one else do it! Or you can do it yourself! I¡¯m a little tired today and I wish to rest early!¡±


    In the past, Sang Wan would never refuse Nanny Li¡¯s suggestion. From matters as huge as coaxing Wang Shi or any other minor things, she would never not listen to Nanny Li. But today, she felt dispirited as if everything that she felt was important in the past was actually not worthwhile anymore!


    Nanny Li sighed to herself and gestured to the others to leave using her eyes. However, she was not feeling angry but instead feltpassion for her. From how she saw, Sang Wan was good at everything with no spot of dust; in other words, perfect in every way. But she was too perfect andcked a temper an ordinary person should have! Without a temper, is that person still a human? That person would be nothing but a y made Buddha in a temple! The her now that was feeling peeved was more lovely than her usual self.


    What kind of face would Sang Wan have if she knew of the evaluation Nanny Li had given her?


    ¡°Young Mistress,¡± Nanny Li smiled and personally handed her a cup of hot tea before exhorting with a smile, ¡°This old servant knows you¡¯re feeling unhappy, but if you don¡¯t see it that way, then it might not be that bad!¡±


    The way she said it, Sang Wan found it amusing and she asked half-jokingly, ¡°Oh? Then how should I see it?¡±


    Nanny Li smiled, ¡°Just think about it, her rushing in to be one part of the family would make her position worse than before. That itself is not a bad thing!¡±


    Nanny Li went on and told her about the conversation she had with Wang Shi and what arrangements she had given for Peony Park. With a sneer, she said, ¡°What that vixen¡¯s nning, this old servant is absolutely clear! After all, isn¡¯t she just afraid that the young master would not want her after the three years of mourning in her own home and was thus so anxious to marry in? Young Mistress, just wait and see! A woman still serving her period of mourning has many taboos! When she marries in, just watch how this old servant will handle her! After her three years of mourning, she¡¯ll be more honest and be reborned a new with no way of bouncing back!¡±


    Sang Wan suddenly wanted to burst intoughter. She and Nanny Li were on a different wavelength! Her heart was not bothered about that, but there was no way she could speak of it with Nanny Li.


    However, why did it seem like her dispirited mood had brightened up a little after talking with Nanny Li?

 Chapter 67 (V2): Drunkenness

    <h4>Chapter 67 (V2): Drunkenness</h4>


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Sang Wan sighed before smiling, ¡°I know you treat me really well and I¡¯m really grateful for that! You may have said so, but there¡¯s still a need to take Lord¡¯s feelings into ount when the timees. If Miss Gu were toin to him or be erratic in front of Mother-inw, those who don¡¯t know might think the two of us had colluded to bully an orphaned girl!¡±


    Those were exactly what Nanny Li would like to hear and she smiled heartily, ¡°A wife remains a wife and a concubine is just a concubine! That has already been decided by the heavens! A mind like Young Mistress¡¯s is definitely not something a concubine couldpete against! Just look at that, this old servant hasn¡¯t even thought of that and you¡¯ve already spoken it!¡±


    Sang Wan was startled and she froze.


    I¡¯ve only wished to live the rest of my life peacefully and not have him look down on me. I, Sang Wan, is righteous and do not wish to seek revenge!


    ¡°Young Mistress,¡± Seeing Sang Wan remaining silent, Nanny Li sighed again, ¡°Listen to Nanny and don¡¯t look so dispirited anymore! Young Master¡¯s heart is definitely leaning towards you. At such a crucial time, you shouldn¡¯t treat him so coldly! I don¡¯t wish to brag, but he¡¯s someone whom I single-handedly raised; his character, this old servant is clearer about it more than he does!¡±


    In the end, isn¡¯t she just wanting me to take the initiative to fawn on him, to take this chance when his feelings are at their weakest?


    Sang Wan shook discreetly. Regardless whether it was going to be effective or not, Sang Wan was not one who¡¯d be bothered to do such a thing.


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Sang Wan knew she could not say it bluntly to Nanny Li, so she spoke bitterly, ¡°I really am tired today so I won¡¯t be going!¡± After brainstorming for a while, she spoke thoughtlessly, ¡°Nanny, why don¡¯t you go ahead! Lord might actually want to see you instead and speak to you! With my current mood andplexion, it might affect Lord¡¯s frame of mind! Nanny, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Really, Young Mistress!¡± Nanny Li smiled and joked. Thinking yet again that her heart feltfortable andposed, she smiled, ¡°Alright! Then this old servant will head over there! Young Mistress, since you¡¯re tired, do go to bed early!¡±


    Sang Wan had intended to do so and she smiled gratefully, ¡°I will! Nanny, please go ahead!¡±


    Not long after Nanny Li left, Sang Wan took a bath before getting into bed. Her mood was extremely poor and she did not wish to meet with Shi Fengju.


    When Shi Fengju returned quietly on his toes to Ning Garden, Sang Wan had already gone to bed. It was just like what the servants described, and Shi Fengju felt secretly relieved as he took a bath before going into the chamber.


    As usual, he quietly took a mattress from the cupboard and carefullyy it on the floor. He nced at the tightly closed bed curtains for a moment before lying on the mattress gently.


    From the moment he came in, Sang Wan could feel his presence and she subconsciously controlled her breathing as she quietlyid in bed. Once everything returned to silence, she gently opened her eyes. It was pitch ck, just like her mood at this moment.


    The next morning when Sang Wan got up, Shi Fengju had already left. Sang Wan did not ask about it and went to take a bath before having her breakfast as per normal.


    ¡°Young Mistress, this old servant has already arranged for the preparations to be done for Peony Park. Would Young Mistress want to take a look whether it¡¯s appropriate or not? Or if there¡¯s anything to change?¡± After breakfast, Nanny Li asked.


    Nanny Li was never half-hearted in the task at hand, but Sang Wan understood where she was going at; she was thinking for her. Going there would make it seem like she was the one who arranged which she could generously announce to Wang Shi.


    ¡°Alright! We¡¯ll go after a few of the servants, who¡¯re about to arrive, exchange the tablets for the items they need!¡± Sang Wan did not wish to brush aside Nanny Li¡¯s good intentions and smiled as she nodded.


    ¡°Understood, Young Mistress!¡± Seeing that she understood, Nanny Li agreed with satisfaction.


    After finishing the household affairs for today, Sang Wan, apanied by Nanny Li, Liu Ya, Zhide and a few other servants, went to Peony Park.


    The bright potted nts that were arranged in front of the yard were all moved away; even the tworge blue and white porcin vase by a pomegranate tree were all reced with potted cypress with its imposing dark green leaves.


    The rednterns hanging in front of the gate were reced with white. The vibrant decorations outside were all changed to in and white ones.


    Entering the room, it was like a deserted snow cave. Although it was bright and sunny outside, Sang Wan could not help but feel a sudden chill.


    ¡°This, isn¡¯t it too white and in?¡± Sang Wan could not help but ask.


    ¡°It¡¯s not yet to that point, this is already quite mild!¡± Nanny Li spoke bluntly, ¡°For people who are going through the mourning period, not a single decoration should be kept. Just look, that porcin vase over there is still there, this old servant hasn¡¯t had anyone remove it! The curtains are also not changed to white! This old servant feels this is simple enough for the change of mood to express how Miss Gu should be feeling at this moment!¡±


    Nanny Li spoke with facts to back her speech which made Sang Wan¡¯s jaw dropped. Increasingly, she realized that she had lived her previous life in vain!


    There were thousands ofws governing this world. For a wife to dispose of a concubine, there were so many ways she could have used so why was she so foolish in her past life to get eaten by Gu Fangzi as a whole?


    ¡°The bedding and cushions are all with a suitable thickness? Although she may still be mourning, she mustn¡¯t end up freezing in the cold¡± Sang Wan said lightly. Disciplining her was one thing, but giving others a reason to criticize was not something Sang Wan could afford to bear.


    ¡°Young Mistress, rest assured,¡± Nanny Liughed confidently, ¡°Everything¡¯s of good quality! Miss Gu is a delicatedy, how could we make her suffer from any grievance!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded. She knew she was worried for nothing because when had Nanny Li ever done something which would make her get caught by the tail?


    ¡°Don¡¯t prepare the clothes first. Wait until when Miss Gues and choose the material before preparing it! It¡¯s possible that she must be feeling sad for the loss of a loved one that the measurements she had before are incorrect now!¡± Sang Wan added.


    Nanny Li was startled. From her point of view, Gu Fangzi should have a in white coat made! But since Sang Wan had already given such instructions, she did not refuse and epted it.


    ¡°The room for Old Master Gu¡¯s tablet is already tidied up. Would Young Mistress like to take a look?¡± Nanny Li asked again.


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Wan answered, almost as if she could not wait to get out of such a chilly house. Without any thought, she took a nce at the west room and saw nothing else in there except for a long table and a thick round mattress on the floor, and atop the table was an incense burner. Nodding her head, she left together with the servants.


    ¡°It¡¯ll be the sixth of August in a few days, Nanny, keep your eyes peered and ensure that everything is in order before the ceremony. Another festival will being up soon so I¡¯ll be busy with that!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Young Mistress! This old servant will not leave anything out!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s spirit red.


    ¡°Oh yes,¡± Sang Wan was hesitant for a moment before asking, ¡°Since Miss Gu will be bing one of our family members, thising Mid-Autumn dinner... is there anything I should pay any particr attention to?¡±


    Nanny Li made a sound in disdain beforeughing, ¡°Old Mistress loves a lively atmosphere so Young Mistress, just prepare it however lively you would want the dinner to be! As for the Gu family, they¡¯ve nothing to do with the Shi family! Young Mistress, there¡¯s no need to worry about them!¡±


    ¡°Then I understand!¡± Sang Wan smiled. Having asked in front of a crowd, it would prevent Gu Fangzi from creating any trouble.


    Returning back to Ning Garden, as Liu Ya helped Sang Wan with her change of clothes, she could not stop her tongue from vomiting out a string ofments, ¡°For a smartdy like Miss Gu, just what was going on in her mind when she decided to be a concubine! Old Mistress likes her so much, why not let her marry someone else as a wife instead! Bing a concubine, and what¡¯s more entering in such a state, really¡ª¡ªE, Young Mistress, this servant doesn¡¯t have any other meaning!¡±


    Getting to the exciting part, Liu Ya suddenly recalled that Gu Fangzi was to be a concubine right below Sang Wan who was the wife and she quickly held her tongue.


    But Sang Wan smiled lightly, ¡°You¡¯re right! Even I don¡¯t know what she¡¯s thinking!¡±


    Liu Ya shook her head and smiled, ¡°If it were me and I fell into some hole full of riches or something, that kind of life is still not something I can live in!¡± There was someone who actually died in her previous life due to being driven to a corner by the word ¡®regtions¡¯.


    Sang Wan pouted at her jokingly, ¡°You shamelessss! To say such things here! Hasten a little, I¡¯ve matters to attend toter! How can you say such nonsense? If others were to hear you, they mightugh at you for having no shame!¡±


    Liu Ya smiled and giggled, ¡°This servant only said a few words in front of Young Mistress only! This servant¡¯s mouth is otherwise very strict!¡±


    The Shi household department servants were all familiar with their task at hand from the numerous yearly festivals they had to prepare, and thus, Sang Wan did not really have anything to worry. The most she did was invite Nanny Jiang, who was always by Wang Shi¡¯s side, to discuss with her the type of dishes to prepare and what kind of troupe to reserve before instructing someone to notify the Second Shi family.


    The day passed swiftly and Sang Wan was once again by herself during dinner time. Zhan Huan came to pass a message that the young master had a dinner gathering to attend to with several of his friends within Qingzhou city and will be outte!


    Sang Wan did not say anything and answered with only an ¡®I understand¡¯. But seeing Nanny Li casting her a re from the side, she quickly added a few more words. ¡°Serve him carefully, and don¡¯t let him drink too much!¡±


    Having instructed so, Nanny Li appreciated it, and Zhan Huan gleefully agreed, but when Shi Fengju returned, he was utterly drunk and senseless!


    Sang Wan was at a loss for words and could not help but feel peeved: Does his heart not feel contented if he doesn¡¯t annoy me?


    Nanny Li was feeling extremely distressed and she quickly ordered someone to bring a pail of water for her to wipe his face before leaving to cook a bowl of hangover soup. The servants became busy for a long while before the activities quietened down.


    Watching Shi Fengju¡¯s reddish and sullen eyes, Sang Wan was only left with the option of having someone help him to the bed.


    His body smelling of alcohol was something Sang Wan disliked, and she swiftly instructed Liu Ya and Hong Ye, ¡°Clear up the east room andy a mattress there, I¡¯ll sleep there tonight! You two will stay and serve from outside for tonight!¡±


    Liu Ya and the rest epted and was about to leave before Shi Fengju, who was sound asleep, mumbled softly, ¡°Sang Wan! Sang Wan...¡±


    Sang Wan was stunned all of a sudden, and Liu Ya and the rest turned and gazed back.


    ¡°Young Mistress, Young Master¡¯s calling for you!¡± Seeing Sang Wan remaining motionless, Nanny Li could not help but give a reminder.


    Sang Wan was brought back to her senses and could only step forward and sat on the edge of the bed before gently shoving Shi Fengju, ¡°Lord, you¡ª¡ª¡±


    Before she could finish, Shi Fengju suddenly shot his hand out and grabbed hers tightly before saying sluggishly, ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan, I¡¯m sorry... Please don¡¯t be angry,... don¡¯t...go...¡±

 Chapter 68 (V2): Don’t Let Me Misjudge You Again

    <h4>Chapter 68 (V2): Don¡¯t Let Me Misjudge You Again</h4>


    Sang Wan¡¯s body turned stiffed and her heart skipped a beat as she stared at him in panic.


    ¡°Young Mistress, you should stay. Young Master doesn¡¯t wish for you to leave!¡± Nanny Li quicklyughed and gave an eye at Liu Ya and the rest.


    Sang Wan could not help but tug at her hand which was grabbed by him, but who would have thought that a drunk man¡¯s strength was so mysteriously great. She did not dare to tug at her hand strongly in front of the crowd, and so she could only give up. Reluctantly, she nodded, ¡°You all may leave. It¡¯s enough with me here!¡±


    Nanny Li was looking forward to hearing so and she cheerfully led the crowd out before gently closing the door shut.


    Sang Wan rxed a little and let out a silent sigh before observing Shi Fengju¡¯s facial features without any secrecy.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan...¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes were half opened and he began to rave, calling out her name.


    ¡°I¡¯m here!¡± Sang Wan used her other hand and gently pat the nket. ¡°Are you alright? It¡¯ste already and I¡¯ve to also get some sleep!¡± With that, she forcefully tried to keep her arm.


    However, Shi Fengju¡¯s grasp became tighter like a metal hoop, and even with all her strength, she could not free her arm. There were grip marks on her arm and all she was left with was to pull at Shi Fengju¡¯s fingers one at a time.


    After painstakingly peeling off Shi Fengju¡¯s fingers from her arm, his hand finally let go and Sang Wan rubbed her sore wrist before letting out another sigh. But out of the blue, Shi Fengju tightly grabbed her wrist again and his eyes were suddenly opened wide as they gazed into hers while he apologized, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t be angry, I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not angry!¡± Sang Wan suppressed the frustration deep within her and said, ¡°So quickly let me go!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s hazy eyes glistened and the edges of his lips rose to reveal a jolly smile, ¡°Sang Wan¡¯s not angry?¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t let me go now, then I can¡¯t say I¡¯m not! Ah! What are you doing!¡± Sang Wan became flustered as she channeled all her energy to suppress the shriek that would have escaped otherwise from Shi Fengju¡¯s powerful pull. Her bodynded head first on the bed, and when she regained her senses, she was heavily pressed on the bed by Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Shi Fengju! Get up, get up now!¡± His upper half was pressed heavily on her body with his head resting on her corbone. She could smell the alcohol from his breath that was at her neck. Her panicked heart almost leaped out from her chest and her face was flushed red.


    ¡°Shi Fengju! Shi Fengju!¡± Sang Wan clenched her teeth as she frantically tried to push him away. However, he had already closed his eyes and was sleeping soundly. After saying a few more gibberish words, he finally let go of her. But on the next second, he changed to a different posture and hugged her tightly around his arms.


    Sang Wan was feeling angst and embarrassed. With a face flushed red, she made all attempts to push him away, but it was all in vain and it tired her out. With no strength left, she panted and helplessly turned her head a little to look at the face that was close to her. Being so close, she could hear his heartbeat, and just a little more and her face would have touched his!


    But, was he really this close to her? In the next second, where would he be?


    Sang Wan closed her eyes and tried not to ponder too much. Gradually, she simply ended up falling asleep.


    When it was day again, the chamber slowly brightened up.


    Shi Fengju gently opened his eyes and shook his lethargic head. All of a sudden, he turned dazed as he felt an indescribable feeling.


    But he could not be med because the bed had never been for him to sleep in. He was really in a daze.


    His sight slowly shifted and it was met with a face white with displeasure and detest. Shi Fengju was immediately made fully awake and he found himself actually pressing on top of Sang Wan! His head was buried near her neck and his arms wrapped tightly around her.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s expression instantly changed and as if there was a fire, he hurriedly rolled away and sat upright.


    He helplessly waved a few gestures and patted his forehead angrily, ¡°I¡¯m sorry! I¡¯m so sorry! Sang Wan...¡±


    Sang Wan tiredly closed her eyes and her small face asrge as a palm was extremely white. She pulled the nket over herself and turned herself away from him before speaking softly, ¡°I want to lie down a little longer, you go out first.¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s lips moved a little and he nodded gloomily, ¡°Then I, I shall go out. You have a rest!¡±


    He turned his body around and got off the bed. Shi Fengju could not help but turn back to give another nced at Sang Wan from the corner of his eye and his heart felt extremelyplicated. Of course, he regretted what he had done, but on the other hand, there was this tiny bit of indescribable sweetness as well as an affection.


    Just what had he done!


    He had clearly made a promise with her, yet how could he have been so shameless as to take advantage of her! This was bad, in her mind, he must really be no different than a scoundrel!


    As soon as he thought of how she might see him, to think that he was such a person in her heart, Shi Fengju felt a deep sense of frustration.


    Without a sound, he smiled bitterly and carelessly wore his outerwear before leaving.


    Being as drunk as a skunk yesterday, the servants were not that bothered with him waking upte. But, seeing that the young master who was drunk yesterday had already woken but their young mistress who did not drink was still asleep, their confusion could more or less be seen in their eyes.


    Shi Fengju felt a little guilty and let out a cough before saying something unnatural, ¡°Young Mistress is exhausted. Don¡¯t go in and bother her, let her sleep for a while longer!¡±


    The servants suddenly understood why and quickly whispered a ¡®yes¡¯ softly before going about to serve Shi Fengju.


    It was inevitable that he would have to face Nanny Li¡¯s angry nagging on how he should not have drunk so much and for not cherishing his own body. Shi Fengju held back his temper and repeatedly promised that it would never happen again before Nanny Li finally dropped the subject. She then asked him with concern whether he was still feeling ufortable? Whether his head still hurts or feels dizzy? Shi Fengju quickly smiled and said it was nothing, but Nanny Li was not assured enough and had someone prepare a bowl of hangover soup. Only after she had forced Shi Fengju to drink it down did she finally became more assured.


    ¡°Would Young Master like to first have breakfast or wait until Young Mistress is awake?¡± Zhide approached him and asked.


    Shi Fengju could not help but give a glimpse at the chamber and the thought of Sang Wanplicated his frame of mind. Waving his hand, he spoke, ¡°Serve mine first! Have her¡¯s¡ª¡ª¡± Reaching this point, he suddenly realized that he had actually no idea what she liked to eat, and what her taste buds were like. Thinking of how she carefully arranged for the dishes every time, Shi Fengju felt even more unpleasant.


    ¡°What she likes to eat, have the kitchen make for her. Also, brew a bowl of top quality bird nest. When she wakes up, serve it to her.¡±


    The crowd was stunned: When had the young master ever cared about such trivial things?


    That moment of silence made Shi Fengju extremely awkward and he gave a cough unnaturally.


    The crowd was immediately brought back to their senses. Nanny Li immediately scolded with a scowl, ¡°What are all of you still standing here for? Haven¡¯t you heard Young Master¡¯s instructions? Go and do them!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± The crowd hurriedly dispersed.


    Shi Fengju had his breakfast absent-mindedly. The food was like a chewy wax that had no taste at all.


    ¡°Young Master, do you not have the appetite? Is the food not to your liking?¡± Nanny Li asked with concern.


    Shi Fengju quickly smiled, ¡°No, I, I¡¯m done!¡±


    ¡°But Young Master only had so little,¡± Nanny Li was distressed and said without hesitation, ¡°It must have been due to you having drunk so much yesterday that caused you not to have any appetite today! Hong Ye, go and fetch another bowl of hangover soup!¡±


    Hearing so, Shi Fengju felt a sense of dizziness. The taste of the hangover soup really wasn¡¯t nice! A bowl after another for him to pour down his throat, when had Nanny be so uncaring towards him?


    ¡°No need, no need for it!¡± Shi Fengju hurriedly stood up, ¡°I¡¯ll go and see Sang Wan, my appetite will surely returnter!¡±


    Nanny Li had actually wanted to urge him further, but after hearing what he said, she stopped and gave a nod, ¡°Last night when you were drunk to such a state, Young Mistress must have tire herself out just to take care of you. You should apany her more!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and agreed before turning to enter the chamber.


    Sang Wan was still lying in the direction away from him. Hearing movements behind her, she gently asked, ¡°Liu Ya?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± Shi Fengju walked over to her and sat on the edge of the bed.


    Sang Wan¡¯s body turned stiff but she did not turn her head back, ¡°Is there still something, Lord?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Shi Fengju answered seriously, ¡°I do have something I wish to speak with you.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s lips moved a little and she said calmly, ¡°Then please speak.¡±


    Shi Fengju repeated the words that were spiraling in his heart a few times before finally having the courage to say it out loud, ¡°Sang Wan, yesterday night, I will be responsible for it!¡±


    What! Sang Wan instantly sat up. Her beautiful eyes, that were like the stars above, turned a little teary. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°I said, I will take responsibility for what I didst night, Sang Wan!¡± Having said it, Shi Fengju felt relieved. No matter what, he was at the wrongst night. To be so frivolous towards her, he could neither escape nor even more so wrong her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not mention the promise we made. You will always be my wife! This time around, I¡¯ll definitely not go back on my words!¡± Shi Fengju quickly finished his sentence. After saying it, it was as if a boulder that had been on his heart for a long time was finally removed and he felt at ease.


    ¡°No!¡± With a cold re, Sang Wan said inly, ¡°I don¡¯t know what Lord¡¯s talking about! What responsible? What do you want to be responsible for? What does that have to do with me?¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, I know I was drunkst night and shouldn¡¯t have¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Last night, you definitely were drunk!¡± Sang Wan interrupted before saying each word clearly for him to hear, ¡°You were so drunk that you became unconscious and then fell asleep. That¡¯s all.¡±


    Shouldn¡¯t she be happy instead? Hearing him say so, she would no longer have to worry about the future and the Sang family would not be a gossip of the town! But, she did not want this, this was still not what she had wanted.


    Now reborn, she did not wish to for her life to be twisted and painful. What use were his touching words? Even if she did believe him, Gu Fangzi would definitely have a way to bend him to her will!


    As long as Gu Fangzi remained, and if there was a Gu Fangzi in this household, then there will never be peace in her life! She didn¡¯t wish to spend her life fighting with her! It would be too tiring, so why bother?


    ¡°You¡¯re still angry with me, right?¡± Shi Fengju got agitated and could not help but ce both his hands on her shoulders, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m really sorry! I apologize to you!¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t do anything wrong, and I¡¯m not angry!¡± Sang Wan forcefully shrug off his hands, ¡°I only hope that Lord does not forget the promise you made with me! Don¡¯t let me misjudge you!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s face instantly turned white. Never had anyone spoken to him like that, never! He did not dare to gaze straight at Sang Wan¡¯s face which was filled with conviction. He could not believe that such a sentence would actually escape from a small and red lips.


    She would rather deceive herself than let him take responsibility for it. Her heart was focused entirely on wanting to leave him.


    The fretful bitterness gradually enveloped Shi Fengju¡¯s heart. He did not know what he was jealous of, only that when he heard she still wanted to leave, he just felt wrenched.


    ¡°So be it!¡± Shi Fengju gritted his teeth. Getting up, he folded his sleeves and left. However, he did not know that behind him, two drops of tears fell from Sang Wan¡¯s eyes and slid gently past her cheeks.

 Chapter 69 (V2): An Annoyed Mother-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 69 (V2): An Annoyed Mother-inw</h4>


    Shi Fengju left and did not return until dusk.


    At Yuhe Building located in Qingzhou¡¯smercial center, Shi Fengju was drinking with a man wearing a dark jade robe in a stylish pavilion on the third floor. That man was tall with pretty eyes and trimmed eyebrows, and had a smile on his face as he sat opposite of Shi Fengju. That man was Zhuang Weixian.


    It might have been destiny that their mothers never lived in harmony with each other, but for those two, they were like good brothers. This time around when Shi Fengju left on a business trip, if not for Old Mistress Zhuang forcing him to remain for the arranged date she had prepared, Zhuang Weixian would have definitely followed along with the trip like the years before.


    ¡°What? Haven¡¯t you drank enough yesterday? Yet you still want to drink! You aren¡¯t like this before, is it because your wish is almost fulfilled and you¡¯re extremely happy about it?¡± Zhuang Weixianughed and patted the table before sighing, ¡°Seems it¡¯s not a lie that a person bes high in spirits when there¡¯s a joyous asion!¡±


    His mind subconsciously shed a figure; refined and elegant, light and gentle, that inexpressible resilience, and that mesmerizing hands as they used the abacus!


    Such a woman, to think she would have to endure such hardships and be destined to spend her life with someone who never had her in his heart. Her life was almost predictable, destined to sit quietly in a beautiful cage as time gently passes until the fresh flowers withered and so will she.


    ¡°Joyous asion?¡± Shi Fengju was already slightly drunk and he smiled, ¡°What joyous asion? Hm? The date your mother arranged? Which girl is it?¡±


    ¡°What has it got to do with me!¡± Zhuang Weixian remained cheerful as he rolled his eyes, ¡°Aren¡¯t you about to marry your childhood cousin?¡±


    ¡°Cousin? Fang¡¯er?¡± Shi Fengju gazed nkly before a ridiculous smile emerged on his face, ¡°If you hadn¡¯t said it, I would have almost forgotten! Yes, her wish is almost fulfilled!¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re really drunk, so drunk that you¡¯re not yourself anymore!¡± Zhuang Weixian said with certainty. ¡°Either that, or you¡¯re experiencing too much joy until you¡¯re speaking nonsense!¡±


    Shi Fengju just shook his head and yed with the jade cup while admiring its fine engravings.


    Zhuang Weixian finally realized that something was not right. Curious, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?¡±


    Shi Fengju slowly ced the cup down before looking at Zhuang Weixian in the eye, ¡°You¡¯re also quite familiar with Fangzi. Tell me, what do you think of her?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Shi Fengju waved his hand and smiled, ¡°We¡¯re brothers. When the doors are closed, there¡¯s nothing we can¡¯t say to each other! Don¡¯t lie to me, just tell me, what kind of a person do you think she is?¡±


    How should he put it? Zhuang Weixian remained confused. Even though they were like brothers, but criticizing the woman in his presence was ungentlemanly. Only a fool would answer!


    Moreover, this man was definitely drunk and was speaking incoherently. Once he became sober, he would definitely find trouble for him. When that happens, there would be no ce for him to hide!


    Seeing that he remained silent, Shi Fengju chuckled and asked again, ¡°Then if I were to let you marry her as your wife, will you do so?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± That immediately scared Zhuang Weixian and he blurted out. His mind subconsciously shed the image of an elegant figure and his heart felt a sense of unfairness as he stared at Shi Fengju. ¡°Don¡¯t you already have a wife? So will your cousin be your second?¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled slightly and shook his head, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Why not? Fangzi isn¡¯t bad.¡±


    Zhuang Weixian sighed and smiled bitterly, ¡°Not my cup of tea. Does that satisfy your question?¡± But in his heart, he thought to himself: She already knew that you have an arranged marriage but instead of avoiding any suspicions, she actively took the initiative to get to you. Such a woman has got no morals, how is she any worth liking? From the way she behaves, if she said she was willing to be a concubine, keke, it is all just a lie! Your view of the bigger picture is blocked by a smaller picture! Only when the Shi family bes a mess will you finallye to a realization. Oh, that poor Sang Missy...


    Damn, why do I keep thinking of her again! Zhuang Weixian secretly pinched his own palm.


    Shi Fengju knew he could not force him to say anything more and chuckled, ¡°You¡¯re so much better than me. At least you know what you want! Unlike me...¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t have anything!¡± Zhuang Weixian also jest, ¡°You¡¯ve got a good wife and a beautiful concubine!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about this any further!¡± Shi Fengju smiled bitterly and shook his head. Pouring a cup of wine, he asked, ¡°If, if therees a time when you suddenly discovered that the person you liked for many years is actually not the type of person you like, then what will you do?¡±


    ¡°Easy, I¡¯ll just call it quits! We merchants don¡¯t have so many stinky rules to follow!¡± Zhuang Weixian spoke freely. But once the word got out, he realized that something was wrong and could not help but examined Shi Fengju strangely with his eyes, ¡°If I may say, what¡¯s wrong with you today? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re speaking about yourself? You and Miss Gu¡ª¡ª¡±


    Shi Fengju remained quiet, and that confirmed Zhuang Weixian¡¯s words.


    Zhuang Weixianughed, ¡°If so, then why do you still agree to marry her? After all, she¡¯s still your cousin; can you bear to see her suffer?¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head, ¡°She insisted on it, and there¡¯s nothing more I can say to it!¡± Thinking about how aggressive Gu Fangzi was as she cried and made a scene, Shi Fengju could not help but feel a little disgusted.


    Although Zhuang Weixian had a lot of curiosity trapped in his heart, he knew he should not seek any further and he smiled, ¡°Enough, since it was she who insisted, then what¡¯s there to hold back for? Just wee her in and support her needs. After all, even if there were another hundred, your Shi family can support them all!¡±


    ¡°Rubbish!¡± Shi Fengju snapped and red at him, but he had a smile on his face. It was true, just supporting her needs would be enough. Just that, Sang Wan¡ª¡ª


    Thinking of how Sang Wan was determined to leave, Shi Fengju¡¯s mind felt even more chaotic. But that matter could not be let known by any outsiders, even if it were Zhuang Weixian. Pouring a pear blossom wine down his throat, he secretly made a decision: He will not let her leave so easily.


    Drunk again, Shi Fengju returnedte at night. At any rate, it was all thanks to Zhuang Weixian persuading him to stop else he would have ended up in a state likest night. Although drowsy, his mind still had a trace of being conscious.


    Shi Fengju did not wish to disturb Sang Wan and he ordered Zhan Huan to help him to the study room. Zhuan Huan did not dare to disobey but seeing how drunk his master was, he did not dare to turn a blind eye and quickly sent someone to notify . At Ning Gardent. This time, Sang Wan was already asleep so Nanny Li brought a few others and hurried over to the study room. Seeing him in such a state, she felt distressed and busily went to brew a bowl of hangover soup before instructing Liu Ya to stay to serve in the study room.


    And with that, the matter ended.


    However, Wang Shi came to know of the matter on the next day and immediately turned unhappy. Her son had always been sensible and rarely returns home drunk. However, to be drunk for two consecutive nights, that was unheard of! Moreover, he went directly to sleep in the study room on the second night!


    Associating it with Gu Fangzi marrying into the family, Wang Shi naturally thought of Sang Wan and believed that she was displeased and had a quarrel with Shi Fengju. The quarrel must have made him upset which made him go out to drink.


    The more Wang Shi thought, the angrier she got. And the angrier she got, the more she felt sorry for her son. And the sorrier she felt, the more unhappy she was at Sang Wan. Isn¡¯t he just getting a concubine? She had clearly agreed to it, but to think that she would actually vent all her unhappiness at Shi Fengju; to say one thing then do another, absolutely outrageous!


    And so, early in the morning, Wang Shi called for Sang Wan to reprimand her.


    ¡°What did Shi Fengju dost night?¡± Wang Shi asked.


    Wang Shi¡¯s had always been one to expose her feelings, and although she was doing her best to keep a calm face, Sang Wan was able to see the stiffness of her face and the bluntness in her tone. However, it was all too sudden and Sang Wan was not sure why she was called over. With a smile, she said, ¡°He said he was going to eat out with a friend.¡±


    ¡°Then what time did hee home?¡± Wang Shi did her best to prevent her anger from exploding.


    Sang Wan sensed an unpleasant hunch and she shook her head, ¡°I, I was already asleep and don¡¯t know... Lord returned to the study roomst night...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know?!¡± Wang Shi mmed her hand on the table and scolded, ¡°He¡¯s your husband, not someone else. As his wife, how can you not care for your own husband! Regardless whether he¡¯s dead or alive outside, how can you still sleep first? To think you can still sleep! And even let him rest in the study room? The servants are careless and does not know how to serve! Oh my poor son, married yet as if never married, with no one to greatly care for him! If not for Nanny List night, just think about it, he would be suffering for a night! If he were to catch a cold and fall sick, how will you feel!¡±


    The more Wang Shi spoke, the more she felt sorry for her son and her expression turned even more ugly.


    ¡°Mother, your daughter-inw recognizes the mistake and will dly ept the punishment!¡± Sang Wan, like a bolt, immediately kneeled in front of Wang Shi. She finally understood that she truly was not in the position to lose her temper or throw a tantrum! Could he have been too tolerant towards her and be muddled after being exposed to her temperament for a long time? Sang Wan joked to herself, was he being tolerant towards her?


    Wang Shi was maddened and she continued, ¡°In these two days, he was drunk outside on two consecutive nights. To think I do not know that my child has be an alcoholic! Sang Wan, I know you¡¯re angry deep down, your mouth might not say it but your heart might be thinking otherwise! However, you can¡¯t keep on making him suffer! Fengju was out working hard for the few months, not only did you not serve him well when he returned home, you vented your frustrations at him and made him upset. How can you do that! How can you not show any concern for your own husband!¡±


    Sang Wan felt embarrassed and angry. Her mother-inw¡¯s words were too severe and it was not something she could bear. But Sang Wan knew if she were to defend herself, her mother-inw would definitely get even more angrier. But if she did not do so, it would mean epting those words which would be more disadvantageous for her.


    ¡°Mother, Sang Wan doesn¡¯t dare. Sang Wan didn¡¯t throw a tantrum! Sang Wan really didn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t?¡± Sure enough, Wang Shi became even more annoyed, ¡°I know my son best. If he isn¡¯t feeling upset, then why would he go out to drink to such a state for two nights in a row!¡±


    ¡°A wife doesn¡¯t dare to manage what the husband does. What he said, Sang Wan only listened. What he doesn¡¯t say, Sang Wan doesn¡¯t dare to ask! Whether his heart is troubled or not, Sang Wan really doesn¡¯t know! All he said was that he would be eating out, as for everything else, Sang Wan really doesn¡¯t know! After Mother¡¯s teaching, Sang Wan will keep it to heart. In the future, Sang Wan will ask more questions!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Wang Shi hesitated for a moment. Although she was furious at Sang Wan for talking back at her, she had actually calmed down a little and absorbed her words.


    Seizing the opportunity, Sang Wan redoubled her efforts, ¡°Mother, Sang Wan really has no objection towards Cousin-In-Law marrying in! Being the first wife, how can Sang Wan not endure that? What¡¯s more, this matter will happen sooner orter, a little earlier or a littleter, what difference does it make? If Sang Wan really did feel upset, then Sang Wan would have already made a tantrum, why wait until now!¡±


    Wang Shi became silent. Her face rxed a little and she asked, ¡°Is that how you really think so?¡±

 Chapter 70: Carry This Sedan Chair Back

    <h4>Chapter 70: Carry This Sedan Chair Back</h4>


    Sang Wan quickly nodded. ¡°Yes, Mother! Sang Wan doesn¡¯t dare to deceive Mother! Still, speaking of which, Sang Wan was in the wrong for not caring for her husband enough, or something like this surely would not have happened. When he goes out to enjoy himself in the future, Sang Wan will ask him clearly. If he doesn¡¯t return before dusk, Sang Wan will call for someone to find out why. I have to be tight with him; Sang Wan shall keep this lesson in mind!¡±


    Wang Shi pressed her brows a little and quickly eximed, ¡°There¡¯s no need for that! He is a man. If you keep a tight watch on him whenever he goes out while spying on him here and there, don¡¯t you think he¡¯ll lose face? Next time, if he returns homete, just waiting for him is enough! If hees home drunk, you¡¯ll have to persuade him out of it!¡±


    ¡°Mother is so thoughtful! Sang Wan understands! Sang Wan will keep that in mind and will ensure that something like this never happens again!¡± Sang Wan quickly sent the high hat up while expressing her resolution at the same time.


    Wang Shi then sighed and waved her hand before saying, ¡°Enough, get up! Don¡¯t kneel anymore! It¡¯s good that you understand. It¡¯s not that Mother doesn¡¯t feel bad for you, too, but just think about it, whom does our luxurious lifestyle depend on? Is it not the men who work tirelessly out there? Is there a problem with sleeping a littleter asionally? The man works so hard outside, but if he can¡¯t rx at home and with no one to care for him from the bottom of her heart, then what will be of him? He is your man; do you not feel sorry for him?¡±


    It¡¯s not my ce to feel sorry for him when he¡¯s not even my man, Sang Wan thought to herself, but she quickly agreed with Wang Shi and gently got up before once again disying her resolution. Finally, Wang Shi¡¯s facepletely eased up.


    Nanny Jiang, who was watching from the side, could not help but be secretly amazed. This Ma¡¯am is really not simple! With just a few sentences, she was able to extinguish the me in Mistress¡¯s heart!


    Being Wang Shi¡¯s personal maidservant, Nanny Jiang was more knowledgeable than Nanny Li about perceiving Wang Shi¡¯s temperament. Wang Shi always liked to turn to a blind alley and let her imaginations run wild. Whenever she disciplined others, she was unreasonable. Other than Gu Fangzi, she had never seen anyone able to coax Wang Shi with just a few sentences. And even Gu Fangzi had her own difficulties when she coaxing her.


    Just after this had ended, Shi Fengju hurriedly arrived after receiving news from Nanny Li. Unlike what he had imagined, there was no tension, so Shi Fengju secretly let out a sigh of relief. He could not help but look at Sang Wan in the eye before smiling at his mother to give his greetings.


    The me that had already been extinguished previously was lit up again. Furiously yet lovingly, she scolded Shi Fengju. But since she was his mother, Shi Fengju was well experienced and soon made his mother smile once again.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you? You aren¡¯t someone who likes to drink! You weren¡¯t like this before, so what happened? Tell me!¡± After Wang Shi had finished venting her temper, she started to ask about the situation.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Shi Fengju said with an understated smile, ¡°Just that I haven¡¯t seen my friends for some time, so I got into the mood and drank a few more cups.¡±


    ¡°Rubbish!¡± Wang Shi snorted, ¡°Didn¡¯t you already have the gathering before? Then why the gathering again yesterday!¡±


    Shi Fengju could only continue, ¡°The previous one was with a group of friends, and yesterday¡¯s was between me and Young Master Zhuang. He, nn, was in a bad mood, so he asked me to apany him for a drink. Without our noticing, after a few cupster, we had already drunk a little too much...¡±


    Shi Fengju forcefully and slickly pushed the responsibility onto Zhuang Weixian!


    Hearing that he was together with a Zhuang memberst night, Wang Shi be even unhappier, and she grunted, ¡°That Zhuang family is really no good! How can you still like being in contact with their son! Hmph, just look at that, you just got home and he¡¯s already making you drink so much!¡±


    ¡°Mother,¡± Shi Fengju could only give a vague smile, ¡°Our families are still doing business with each other!¡± Afraid that his mother would not stop nagging, Shi Fengju rubbed his forehead and inadvertently showed a wretched expression.


    Seeing him miserable, Wang Shi indeed felt heartache and quickly asked, ¡°Does your head still hurt?¡± And she could not help but give Zhuang Weixian a few words of scolding before urging her son to go back and rest.


    Shi Fengju nodded and got up. His eyes then cast a few nces at Sang Wan.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you should return too! Quickly go and help your husband!¡± Sure enough, Wang Shi spoke.


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan got up elegantly and gently held Shi Fengju¡¯s arm. Shi Fengju felt a strange feeling flow into his heart, and he could not help but nce into Sang Wan¡¯s eyes. But seeing her expressionless gaze just like that of a in painting, a sense of disappointment seeped into his heart.


    ¡°Wait,¡± Wang Shi suddenly halted them and asked Shi Fengju, ¡°Last night, since you came home, why did you return to the cold study room instead of the small garden?¡±


    To think that her mother-inw would turn a corner and bring the subject up... Sang Wan cried in pain deep inside, and her hands tightened.


    Shi Fengju only chuckled and said embarrassedly, ¡°I had actually wanted to rest a little in the study room first and then return to the small garden once I sobered up a little. But who knew that after resting for a moment, I couldn¡¯t get up!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Wang Shi¡¯s eyes looked skeptically at them. ¡°There was no argument?¡±


    ¡°Why would there be any!¡± Shi Fengjuughed. To prove their affection to Wang Shi, he raised his hands and ced them gently on Sang Wan¡¯s shoulder before pulling her close to him. He smiled and said, ¡°Sang Wan¡¯s temperament is good, so why would she quarrel with me? Besides, you know your son isn¡¯t that kind of person! We¡¯re good, aren¡¯t we, Sang Wan?¡±


    Sang Wan unconvincingly looked up at him before giving him a smile and nodding, ¡°Mother, we really are! Everything¡¯s alright!¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good!¡± Wang Shi was finally assured, but she spoke frustratedly, ¡°There are too many things happening during this period, so my heart¡¯s already frustrated enough. You two, don¡¯t add to the trouble for me!¡±


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan quickly agreed.


    After leaving the courtyard, Sang Wan saw that Shi Fengju¡¯s arm was still on her shoulder, and she stopped on the spot before leaning her head to look at him. That bleak expression made Shi Fengju¡¯s heart race a little. However, not daring to court disaster again, he gave an awkward smile before quickly keeping his hand away.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯ve caused you trouble! Mother is just like that. Her wordse out without any thought, but she means no ill. Please don¡¯t be mad!¡±


    Sang Wan was startled, and she sighed to herself. When did he be so careful when speaking with her? He really seemed to be giving her allowances which might have made her boldness increase! After going through what had happened just now, Sang Wan knew that her ignorant behavior was dangerous. If she were careless, she would get reprimanded by her mother-inw again, and so she smiled gently, ¡°How can I be mad at my mother-inw! Still, it was I in the wrongst night...¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was in glee, and he quicklyughed, ¡°I don¡¯t me you, it¡¯s my fault! Enough, let¡¯s not talk about this anymore. Come, let¡¯s go back to the small garden!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded before following him back.


    In a blink of an eye, it was already the 6th of August. Gu Fangzi was marrying in as a concubine within a hundred days after the passing of a family member, so the wedding was done as low-key as possible without any banquet held. For this reason also, none of the Sang family came. Fang Shi voiced out a few words of dissatisfaction, but after thinking that Gu Fangzi would still have to observe three years of filial piety before being able to do the deed with Shi Fengju and that Sang Wan¡¯s child would already be able to walk by then, her anger subsided.


    Early this morning, Gu Fangzi first took a carriage from the Gu family¡¯s small courtyard before arriving outside Qingzhou City to switch to a small sedan.


    Seeing the white sedan chair that was here to pick her up¡ªsimple and white without no decorations¡ªGu Fangzi felt a little dissatisfied. She then took a nce at the two servants there who were here to see her to the Shi household. They, too, were in in clothes without a single flower on their hair. The mood of a happy asion was not even present, making her even more displeased.


    ¡°Auntie Wu, who arranged for this sedan chair?¡± Gu Fangzi asked with a frown.


    Auntie Wu replied, ¡°To answer Miss Gu, it was Nanny Li who arranged it with Ma¡¯am¡¯s assent.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Gu Fangzi said coldly, ¡°What about the sir and the mistress? Did they say anything?¡±


    Auntie Wu could not help but feel a little contempt. To marry in during such a period as a concubine, what else would you expect? Mistress has always hated going against taboos. It¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know!


    ¡°This matter was entirely handed over to Ma¡¯am and Nanny Li to handle. Mistress did not interfere!¡± Auntie Wu answered inly.


    I knew it! Aunt must be oblivious to this! It must¡¯ve been that Sang Wan trying to take advantage of me! Trying to disy your authority? As if!


    Gu Fangzi immediately concluded and refused to ride the sedan chair. With amanding tone, she instructed Auntie Wu, ¡°Carry this sedan chair back and let Aunt have a look!¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± Auntie Wu and the other servant who hade to pick Gu Fangzi almost choked from the shock. ¡°Miss Gu, that¡ªwhatever for?¡±


    Gu Fangzi snorted coldly, ¡°What kind of family is Shi family? They¡¯re Qingzhou¡¯s richest people! What¡¯s more, I¡¯m my aunt¡¯s niece. If I were to ride such a chilly and in sedan chair to the family¡¯s entrance, would that not cause Shi family to lose face! Not only will that be so, others might even say that my aunt is a very harsh person, even to her own niece! Sister may have no experience in handling affairs, but how can she be so careless as to ruin the reputation of the family and my aunt! Lan Xiang, you follow them back and ask my aunt properly!¡±


    Because Wang Shi had already stated that Gu Fangzi would still be addressed as ¡°Miss Gu¡± and would only be changed after a tea ceremony once the deed was done three yearster. As such, Gu Fangzi still referred to Wang Shi as before.


    ¡°That¡ª¡ª¡± Auntie Wu was ced in a difficult position.


    She was aware of Nanny Li¡¯s authority, and she knew that Nanny Li disliked Miss Gu very much. Supposedly, her sedan chair could have been better than this, but since Nanny Li had already arranged for it and it was not against any regtions, no one could fault her! Miss Gu must have dismissed the idea that this was done by Nanny Li and instead wanted to intentionally pull Ma¡¯am in; this was clearly obvious. Auntie Wu could not help but bitterly grumble to herself, Why must I get dragged into this trouble!


    Ma¡¯am was greatly favored and could easily coax the mistress. The Young Master was also very respectful towards her. If possible, Auntie Wu wished she did not hear the way Miss Gu narrated the problem.


    ¡°Miss Gu,onu thinks we should just forget it! Why make things so troublesome! In any case, we aren¡¯t eye-catching so if we enter through the side gate, I¡¯m sure no one will know! What¡¯s more, don¡¯t you have to observe three years¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Quiet!¡± Before Auntie Wu could finish, Gu Fangzi¡¯s face had turned pale, and she shouted angrily.


    Auntie Wu¡¯s remark no doubt ignited her anger as it directly prated through her sore spot and through her flesh and bone!


    Marrying into the Shi family was both exciting and majestic. Who knew how many times Gu Fangzi had imagined herself doing so. Even without a huge red sedan chair, it would still be a happy asion with loud music in the air. But never had she ever dreamed that she would be picked up by so few people on a small sedan chair and then carried in just like that.

 Chapter 71: Auntie Wu’s Tolerance

    <h4>Chapter 71: Auntie Wu¡¯s Tolerance</h4>


    Not eye-catching while also entering through the side gate¡ªthose words indiscriminately pricked Gu Fangzi¡¯s nerves to the point where she almost exploded with anger!


    How could she tolerate such depressing words?


    ¡± You¡¯re in no position to speak in front of me! Since today¡¯s an auspicious day, I¡¯m toozy to bicker with you! Now, don¡¯t just stand there. Go back and repeat what I said! Now!¡± With an ice-cold face, Gu Fangzi pointed at Auntie Wu as she barked her orders.


    Auntie Wu was, in any case, married to a son born in the Shi household. Her man managed three viges, and he was a man tasked with responsibilities regardless of their magnitude. As for her, she had been in the Shi household for many years and was even addressed politely by Sang Wan as ¡°Lady Wu.¡± Confronted by Gu Fangzi whose face had turned yellow from anger, Auntie Wu pursed her lips and remained speechless.


    ¡°What¡¯re you still standing here for? Go!¡± Gu Fangzi added another sentence.


    ¡°Understood,onu shall go now!¡± In the end, Auntie Wu did not dare to offend someone whose status was that of a master. She gritted her teeth and swallowed down the anger within her. In her heart, however, she cussed the viledy like there was no tomorrow. What a thing, already so frivolous when you haven¡¯t even married in yet! Not only are you unfit to tie Ma¡¯am¡¯sces, you aren¡¯t even worthy of being called a master! To marry in so soon while the freshness of the death of one¡¯s family member still lingers, you are nothing more than unwanted goods!


    ¡°Lan Xiang is Miss Gu¡¯s closest maidservant. It will be better for her to stay and serve Missy. Well then,onu and her two old sisters shall take a return trip!¡± Auntie Wu said so as she smiled.


    Gu Fangzi thought for a moment and nodded. If Lan Xiang followed them, she would be implying that she was supportive of theint. Asking Aunt themselves would be better.


    Gu Fangzi then eased her face and looked suspiciously at Auntie Wu. ¡°When you see the mistress, you should know what to say without the need for me to teach, right?¡±


    Auntie Wu quicklyughed. ¡°Laonu knows! Laonu thinks that this is not the right way to conduct such ceremony and return to ask for advice. It¡¯s all for the face of Shi family and has nothing to do with Miss Gu.¡±


    Satisfied, Gu Fangzi nodded as she instructed, ¡°Then go quickly! If you do it right, I shall reward you handsomely! If you dare to y any tricks, hmph, just hope that I don¡¯t find out!¡±


    Auntie Wu was taken aback and quickly lowered her head. ¡°Laonu doesn¡¯t dare,onu doesn¡¯t dare!¡± Auntie Wu had actually intended toin about her, but after Gu Fangzi¡¯s threat, she quickly kept thatint to herself. After all, there was a difference between a master and a servant. Since inquiring around posed no difficulty for Gu Fangzi, where would she hide if she were to be punished?


    Not daring to incite against a master did not mean she did not dare to cripple the ceremony. Auntie Wu had a stomach full of anger, and she had to vent it out somewhere, and so she brought the other servants along and slowly entered the city. On the way, she even generously treated everyone to some tea and snacks. When people eat food from others, they¡¯ll speak good of them. The group were d that there had things to eat, and with so much time on their hands to enjoy, they would definitely not rat her out. And so, one by one, they entered the teahouse and chatted happily for almost an hour before slowly returning to the household.


    After returning back to the household, Lady Wu went to meet with Wang Shi and spoke ording to what Gu Fangzi had wished for her to say. Of course, she did not say that it was Gu Fangzi¡¯s idea and instead imed it was her own.


    Wang Shi was filled with anger after listening to her. ¡°Meddlesome woman! Who asked you to decide all by yourself! I sent you to receive her, but where did you fling her to without any cares? And you even returned with an empty chair! What is this!¡±


    Feeling wronged, Auntie Wu gently pressed her lips together and smiled. ¡°Laonu deserves to die! Laonu deserves to die! Butonu did so for the sake of Shi family¡¯s reputation ah, Mistress!¡±


    ¡°A bunch of nonsense!¡± Wang Shi frowned and thought for a moment before asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with the chair?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, nothing!¡± Auntie Wu quickly shook her head. Even if Gu Fangzi supported asking for a change of sedan chairs, Auntie Wu was not bold enough to criticize Nanny Li for being ipetent. ¡°It¡¯s just that,onu thinks it¡¯s too in, so¡ª¡±


    ¡°Oh? So you decided for yourself and carried an empty chair back?¡± Nanny Li¡¯s nostrils red as she entered. After greeting Wang Shi, Nanny Li said to Auntie Wu, ¡°It¡¯s ominous to bring an empty sedan chair out and back in ah! Sister Wu, you aren¡¯t young anymore, so why are you handling things so foolishly? Or have you turned foolish due to age!¡±


    ¡°Laonu¡ª¡± Embarrassed, Auntie Wu quickly pped her own mouth. ¡°Laonu was too hot-headed at that moment! Laonu seeks Mistress¡¯s forgiveness! Laonu shall turn around and head back out!¡±


    ¡°Wait a moment!¡± Nanny Li said unenthusiastically, ¡°You might not be the one who¡¯s being foolish. I¡¯m no longer young anymore; maybe I¡¯m the one who¡¯s foolish. Why don¡¯t we bring the chair in and let Mistress see for herself if I was the one being careless and if I could have caused Shi family to lose its face!¡±


    ¡°Oh, sister, how could you say that! My mind¡¯s at ease when ites to the way you handle things, so why would I wrong you! It¡¯s not just me who thinks this way. Among all the servants in this household, you are the only one who will never do anything to make the household lose its face. There¡¯s no need for me to see, no need for me to see!¡± Wang Shi quickly smiled and loudly ordered Auntie Wu to apologize.


    Like a mouse trapped in a windbox with no way to please either side, Auntie Wu could only cuss at Gu Fangzi savagely in her heart. Other than admitting her wrongs obediently, what else could she do?


    And how would Nanny Li not know? Auntie Wu was not one to be meddlesome. Besides, she was not so foolish to expose herself just so she could fault her! This must definitely be rted to Gu Fangzi, that sly little fox.


    She had already reached this point, yet she was not willing to remain low. Rather, she still wished to ssh dirty water ononu and Ma¡¯am. Not teaching her a lesson would really make her think that everyone else was a fool for letting themselves be yed into her hands!


    ¡°Missy, it would be better to bring the sedan chair in! Laonu thinks that this matter should be handled clearly in front of Missy, or else others might think thatonu bears ill intentions! Althoughonu still dislikes Miss Gu,onu is still able to see the clear line between matters that are urgent and minor, andonu will never make light of the family¡¯s reputation as well as Missy¡¯s!¡±


    Nanny Li¡¯s words were tossed out loudly. Wang Shi could not refuse and could only order for it to be so.


    Auntie Wu let out a sigh of relief and quickly called for the rest to carry the in small sedan chair in. Since she had already said the words she needed to say, and since the chair was also sent in to have Mistress take a look, whatever happened next would have nothing to do with her!


    The in small sedan chair was carried in and Nanny Li spoke, ¡°Missy, please take a look. This entire sedan chair was especially crafted by a craftsman, and the materials used are all of excellent quality! The cushion inside is also soft, and the curtains were sewn with the finest silk. If what you see here isn¡¯t good, then what is!¡± With that, she gave another sigh, ¡°The death of Miss Gu¡¯s family member is still fresh from the memory, so how can this chair not be in? Should I have it decorated with vibrant colors instead? That Old Master Gu is watching from above! If we were to really use vibrant colors instead, then others would surely criticize us behind our back, saying that Shi family knows no custom!¡±


    Hearing Auntie Wu first give her the primacy, Wang Shi also agreed that the chair was somewhat in at first nce. But after hearing Nanny Li¡¯s words, she felt that those words were very justified, and she nodded. ¡°Sister, you¡¯re right! Doing so would only be justifiable! Auntie Wu, you really were foolish this time around!¡±


    ¡°Yes,onu was being meddlesome,onu should not have been hot-headed! Laonu is in the wrong!¡± Auntie Wu pleaded guilty and apologized before hurrying out to receive Gu Fangzi again.


    However, she was stopped by Nanny Li again, ¡°Sister Wu, you really are hot-headed today! I¡¯ve lived to such an age, but I¡¯ve never seen an empty sedan chair leave and return and leave again! Since this chair has already returned, it cannot be sent out again, or it¡¯ll be ominous! The chair should be changed to another one!¡±


    Auntie Wu was secretly ted but she asked awkwardly, ¡°Sister Li is right, but, but in such a hasty situation, where can we find another new chair? Miss Gu is still waiting outside the city!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re asking me? It¡¯s not like I can magically conjure a chair out of thin air!¡± Nanny Li mocked.


    Wang Shi thought for a moment before frowning, ¡°Enough, just carry one that¡¯s avable! But remember to change the curtains to white and remove all the unnecessary decorations! We can¡¯t keep Fangzi waiting!¡± Wang Shi said with a sigh. Deep down, she secretly whispered to herself that an evil being really must have been interfering with this ceremony, or why else wouldn¡¯t it proceed smoothly!


    Auntie Wu quickly epted and asked with a smile, ¡°Then, when the chair is ready, will Mistress like to take a look at it first?¡±


    ¡°No need! Quickly go and receive her!¡± Wang Shi became impatient and frowned as she scolded, ¡°For you to be unable to handle such a small matter, I don¡¯t think there¡¯ll ever be any need for you do handle anything else!¡±


    Auntie Wu got scared and did not dare to say anything more as she busily slipped out.


    Gu Fangzi sat in the back of a small store to rest her feet as she waited. When the sun finally began to set, she finally saw thete Auntie Wu and her entourage from afar.


    ¡°Why are all of you so slow? The Missy was kept waiting! Quickly!¡± Lan Xiang had been at the doorway gazing out numerous times. After seeing the chair they had carried over, Lan Xiang¡¯s eyes suddenly widened, and she pointed at it as she asked Auntie Wu, ¡°You, you all went away for so long just to bring this kind of chair here? This is even more inferiorpared to the one before!¡±


    At least the one from before was still new. At a nce, this one just looked like it was improvised. The poles, the body, and even the curtains were not old, but they were also not new. No matter how they looked at it, it looked so miserable! Did this even resemble anything like a chair to wee the bride? Even one rented bymoners looked so much better.


    Auntie Wu thought to herself, Hmph, it seems your eyes are quite good. This is definitely not as good as the one before; otherwise, wouldn¡¯t my trip back as well as the scoldings I¡¯ve received be in vain for an olddy like me?


    ¡°I¡¯ve things to tell Miss Gu myself when I see her!¡± Towards Gu Fangzi¡¯s servant, Auntie Wu was not as polite, and she groaned, ¡°If you think you can decide to speak for me, then I might as well return again and change the chair for another!¡±


    How would Lan Xiang dare to hold such responsibility? Moreover, the sun was going to set! She could only snort and re at Auntie Wu with eyes that showed she would hold no responsibility when they meet up with Missy! With that, she turned and said with a long face, ¡°Follow me!¡±


    Indeed, Gu Fangzi was furious when she saw the chair, and she roared at Auntie Wu as she pointed at her, ¡°You already went off for such a long time, and then you came back with something so outrageous! What¡¯s this meaning of this? Who¡¯s idea is it? Is it Sister¡¯s? That wickeddy, she¡¯s deliberately trying to upset me, isn¡¯t she!¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu, please don¡¯t be so anxious! Please slowly listen toonu first!¡± Auntie Wu smiled and continued, ¡°We were stuck when we entered the city, so we didn¡¯t have a choice but to go all the way around. We only arrived at the household after quite some time! Laonu didn¡¯t even get to drink any tea and immediately went to meet with Mistress...¡±


    And so, Auntie Wu spoke honestly of what came after to Gu Fangzi and then said, ¡°If Miss Gu doesn¡¯t believe me, then ask around when you enter the household! The servants serving the mistress were all present! If Miss Gu isn¡¯t satisfied with this, would you likeonu to return and speak with Mistress again?¡±

 Chapter 72: A Lifeless Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 72: A Lifeless Marriage</h4>


    Gu Fangzi was speechless and almost choked from what she said! She red relentlessly at Auntie Wu before a smirk ran through her face. ¡°No need! Let¡¯s go into the household!¡±


    That should¡¯ve been so right from the start! Why the need to find trouble for herself and cause others unhappiness! Auntie Wu sneered.


    Trying to embarrass me and affect my extremely good mood. In your dreams! All of you are belittling me! Once I enter the household, I¡¯ll have the means to clear the debt with each and every one of you in the future. Gu Fangzi smirked.


    She climbed into the old sedan chair and the curtains were dropped before the carriers lift the chair gently. Swaying from one side to the other, the chair was slowly carried off into Qingzhou City. Inside the sedan chair, Gu Fangzi thought absentmindedly to herself, Does this really count as getting married?


    She looked down at the in white clothes she was wearing as well as her in white shoes before touching her silver headdress which was simple. She suddenly felt an urge to cry from the unfair treatment she had to suffer.


    This was how she was going to be married? She was the bride today? There was no team to wee her, no chaplet and official wedding robe, and no brightly decorated sedan chair! This was absolutely different from what she had pictured!


    If not for experiencing it herself, even if someone had told her that her wedding would be such a spectacle, she definitely wouldn¡¯t have believed it!


    ¡°Aiyo! What are all of you doing!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s forehead mmed against the wall when the chair suddenly shook, making her furious.


    ¡°Missy, there was, there was a carriage that suddenly sped past by and almost got us in danger! Are you alright?¡± Lan Xiang quickly spoke.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, move!¡± Gu Fangzi said sullenly.


    What a stroke of bad luck! Rubbing her forehead gently, she suddenly felt a sense of frustration and dejection. Her eyes could no longer hold her tears, and they trickled down her cheeks.


    The chair entered from the side gate and went directly to Peony Park. The entire trip was quiet, like a pond without the slightest ripples, as if the chair entering was of no concern to those from the household. Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart felt even more dejected.


    ¡°Miss Gu, we¡¯ve arrived. Please get off the chair!¡± The sedan chair finally stopped moving, and Auntie Wu cleared her throat before making her announcement.


    Once the chair was lowered, Lan Xiang rushed forward to raise the curtain before helping Gu Fangzi off the chair. The scene she immediately saw was naturally not one that was filled with a festive vibe. On the contrary, it was clean and lonely.


    After a moment of dejection, Gu Fangzi suddenly realized that something was not right! The tworge 6-sided sandalwoodnterns with a tassel were missing. In the courtyard, the colorful potted nts, as well as the portraits, were all gone! They were all reced with yellow-white chrysanthemums! No wonder the entire yard was ufortable to the eyes!


    ¡°Miss Gu, is there anything else you¡¯d like to order? If not, we shall take our leave!¡± Auntie Wu rubbed her hands as she spoke.


    ¡°Nothing, you all may go!¡± Gu Fangzi waved at them. She was currently entirely filled with anxiety as she wished to quickly search around to see the state of her ce and what else had been changed. Where would she have the heart to talk with Auntie Wu? Once that was said, she headed forward.


    ¡°Then, we shall take our leave!¡± Auntie Wu and the rest were very disappointed. This was still a ¡°happy asion,¡± was it not? Everyone had exhausted themselves, yet they were not given a single reward!


    If this were a normal asion, Gu Fangzi would definitely have rewarded them, but at this moment, why would she care about that? Inside the house, the entire interior was like a snow cave. Furious at the sight of it, she almost fainted over!


    The beautifully embroidered draperies were missing. The embroidered tablecloth, chair covers, and curtains were gone. The portrait of a beautiful woman which was hung on the wall was gone. All the different kinds of exquisite porcin, as well as ornaments, were also gone! The bed was still there, but the bed curtain and sheets were changed to a pale white one! Even her rouge was nowhere to be found!


    ¡°Outrageous! Outrageous!¡± Gu Fangzi was rendered speechless by her own fury. As she opened her closet, she saw that all her brightly colored clothes were gone, leaving only a few dull colored clothes that were barely worn. The blood surged up into her head and almost caused her entire body to copse.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you b*tch! How dare you touch my belongings! How dare you do something as shameless as this! I¡¯ll definitely make you pay for this!¡± Gu Fangzi was so furious that she started cussing at Sang Wan and Nanny Li repeatedly.


    Tired after a round of cussing, she sat on the bed, panting loudly as she attempted to calm herself down.


    The sky had already darkened. Seeing that she had finally quietened down, Lan Xiang carefully entered and lit the candles.


    ¡°Howe there¡¯s only you? Where are the others? Where did they die off to!¡± Gu Fangzi raised her brow in anger.


    Lan Xiang quickly answered, ¡°They¡¯re still here! The twosses, Xiao Chun and Xiao Xia, as well as Auntie Zhang and Auntie Xiaozhang are still the maidservants here. Nubi, nubi saw that there isn¡¯t anything to do as of now and asked them to leave! Missy, the kitchen has sent the food over already. Would you like to have them now?¡±


    Gu Fangzi smirked. ¡°So they still left me with some people! Here I thought they would take this opportunity to clean up everything that belongs to me!¡±


    After contemting for a moment, she looked up and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Big Cousin? Why didn¡¯t hee to keep mepany?¡±


    Lan Xiang¡¯s face changed slightly, and she lowered her head before answering softly, ¡°Nubi, nubi doesn¡¯t know...¡±


    Even if she were to be beaten up, she did not dare to say that Young Master had been here, and he left after hearing all the cussing.


    ¡°Go and invite him over!¡± Gu Fangzi could not help but feel annoyed. Stomping her foot, she ordered, ¡°Go and invite him over, quickly! He can¡¯t just leave me all alone today. He can¡¯t do that to me.¡±


    ¡°Missy, I, I think you should eat first!¡± How would Lan Xiang dare? Putting a grin on her face, she added, ¡°You must be tired today, isn¡¯t it¡ª¡±


    But after being met with Gu Fangzi¡¯s cold re, Lan Xiang immediately stopped and smiled. ¡°Then nubi¡ª¡ªshall go now!¡±


    ¡°Quickly! Just say that I¡¯m waiting to eat with him!¡± Gu Fangzi nodded.


    Seeing Lan Xiang leave to invite Shi Fengju, Gu Fangzi¡¯s mood became slightly better. She let out a long sigh before smirking coldly and murmuring to herself, ¡°Trying to humiliate me, aren¡¯t you? Too bad you aren¡¯t skilled enough! Even if I can¡¯t handle you, I¡¯m sure Big Cousin can! Ma¡¯am Shi !¡±


    Gu Fangzi sat in front of the dressing mirror and wanted to smear some makeup on her face. Recalling that those had all disappeared, she hatefully cussed a few more times before doing what she could to make herself more presentable. But after some thought, she held herself back and let her already tidied hair loose to make herself look extremely pitiful.


    This would do the trick! When Big Cousin sees this, he will definitely stand up for me!


    Gu Fangzi smirked as she quietly pictured Shi Fengju¡¯s expression when he saw her like that.


    Unfortunately, Lan Xiang was unable to invite Shi Fengju over.


    ¡°Young Master said, the trip here for Missy must¡¯ve been tiring, so he¡¯d like you to rest first. He¡¯lle over a few dayster to see Missy. He also said that if Missy needs anything else, Missy can go to the small garden and make a request to Ma¡¯am. Ma¡¯am will be understanding and...¡± Lan Xiang twirled her fingers uneasily, and her voice gradually became softer and softer.


    The imposing aura from Gu Fangzi was overwhelming. Her face was extremely pale, and her eyes were opened so wide that they could fall off at any moment. Her in white clothes, as well as a house which felt like an ice cave, perfectlyplemented her jealous expression, making Lan Xiang even more cautious.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± As if she was almost gnawing at her teeth, she said each word one at a time.


    ¡°Missy...¡± Lan Xiang subconsciously took two steps back and arched her shoulders. She was afraid to make another sound.


    ¡°Ask him again!¡± Gu Fangzi had lost it. Furiously, she yelled and pointed at the door, ¡°Go and ask him again! Tell him, if he still refuses toe, I will not eat without him!¡±


    Lan Xiang stood rooted to the spot and could not help but take a glimpse of Gu Fangzi while remaining silent. She thought to herself, Missy ah, Missy, nubi can see that the situation is already disadvantageous, yet why are you still using such tricks?


    Still, thoughts were just thoughts, and Lan Xiang did not dare say them in front of Gu Fangzi. Bracing herself once more, she epted her orders and went out again.


    Gu Fangzi sneered proudly. She¡¯ll deal with himter when hees! But of course, Lan Xiang returned by herself once again.


    Gu Fangzi found it unbelievable! How could this be? He had never been like this before, and this trick of hers had never failed before!


    Knowing that Gu Fangzi found it hard to believe, Lan Xiang forced herself and said softly, ¡± Young Master said, said, that if Missy doesn¡¯t have any appetite, then she should take a rest first because today must¡¯ve been tiring. Once Missy¡¯s appetite returns, she can...¡±


    ¡°Did he really say that? Did you really meet with him, or are you lying to me?¡± Gu Fangzi red at Lan Xiang.


    Lan Xiang was a little disappointed by such remark, but she smiled bitterly as she asked, ¡°Missy, have you lost trust in your own servant, too?¡±


    ¡°Nubi doesn¡¯t dare to deceive Missy. Young Master really said so!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart suddenly sank to the bottom of the valley, and she trembled slightly.


    His heart has changed, his heart really has changed! All this time, that was what she was worried about the most, and lo and behold, that nightmare turned out to be true!


    Gu Fangzi could not help but clench her teeth tightly. Fortunately, she had married into the family already. Otherwise, there might not be another chance left for her!


    She looked up and gazed at everything around her. Everything was in and pale, but all the furniture was of good quality; it was much better than the broken yard of Gu family. And with this, she regretted nothing for marrying in today.


    There are still many years ahead!


    Gu Fangzi whispered to herself.


    ¡°Go to the study room again,¡± Gu Fangzi exhaled deeply and said slowly to Lan Xiang who almost burst out crying, ¡°Just tell him that I¡¯m the one at fault. Even if I was upset by the recent events, I shouldn¡¯t have acted wilfully. I¡¯ll take a rest now and meet with Big Cousin tomorrow, as well as Aunt and Sister. Please tell Big Cousin to rest early and not sleep toote becauseck of sleep isn¡¯t good for the body! Go then!¡±


    Lan Xiang was stunned and nodded her head abruptly. ¡°Understood, nubi will do so!¡±


    Study room? How was she was so sure that Young Master would be in the study room when he was actually at the small garden! However, at this time, she did not dare to add fuel to the fire by telling Gu Fangzi that.


    Gu Fangzi smirked. Squinting her eyes, she gazed at the chilly me. Does that woman think that it¡¯s over? No, this is just the beginning!


    After the meal, Gu Fangzi went to sleep, and the night finally quietened down. Nanny Li, who was waiting eagerly to watch a drama, was left disappointed.


    Even though she had epted the reality, that did not mean that she approved of it. The day that Gu Fangzi entered on a sedan chair, Sang Wan might have looked indifferent as she handled all sorts of household affairs, but her heart felt somewhat empty and at a loss.

 Chapter 73: Disillusioned

    <h4>Chapter 73: Disillusioned</h4>


    At first, she had thought that even if Shi Fengju did not go to apany Gu Fangzi at Peony Park tonight, he would at least have a meal with her before resting in the study room. Unexpectedly, when dinner time was nearing, Shi Fengju sent someone to inform Sang Wan to wait and eat together with him. Bewildered, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes were wide open, and she thought she had heard wrong.


    Zhide, Liu Ya, Hong Ye, and the rest rejoiced. Nanny Li was even more d, and she was grinning from ear to ear. ¡°Ma¡¯am,onu will go and have the kitchen prepare the dishes that you and Young Master would like to have!¡±


    Sang Wan was at a loss for words, and she could not refuse. As such, she smiled and nodded slightly.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, this shows that in Young Master¡¯s heart, no one is above you! Now, all that¡¯s left is to let all the servants see! Then we¡¯ll see who still dares to climb over their master¡¯s head! Please don¡¯t meonu for saying too much, but tonight, Ma¡¯am should take more initiative...¡±


    Nanny Li could not help but walk up to Sang Wan and whisper in her ear.


    ¡°I understand! Nanny!¡± Sang Wan smiled. But she thought to herself, No one is above me? If I¡¯m truly so important in his heart, then Gu Fangzi wouldn¡¯t have been able to marry in at such a time!


    However, Nanny Li did not know Shi Fengju himself was already extremely clear about the instructions she gave to Sang Wan. He knew that by the time Gu Fangzi married in, the servants below would surely look down on Sang Wan and secretly talk behind her back while making things difficult for her. And because of that, he would have to express his attitude¡ªto show everyone that they should think twice before attempting to humiliate and insult the ma¡¯am of the household!


    His doing so was for the peace of his household and to prevent any internal dispute. Shi Fengju used such a reason to convince himself. As to whether his heart felt the same way, he did not wish to search deeply for an answer.


    The two had dinner together and sat down to have tea in afortable pavilion.


    Seeing Shi Fengju conversing quite a lot with her with no intentions to leave at all, she could not help but feel somewhat puzzled. Since the servants were not around, she could not hold it anymore and asked, ¡°Sir, aren¡¯t you going to see Sister for a bit?¡±


    ¡°Sister?¡± Shi Fengju was startled for a moment, but he quickly realized whom she was referring to.


    He raised his brows and pressed them slightly together. ¡°I went to see her before dinner. Today must¡¯ve tired her out, and I think she might be asleep by now, so there¡¯s no need for me to go over!¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Sang Wan answered inly. So that¡¯s why ah! He sure knows how to take ount of others and care for them.


    Shi Fengju could not help but feel somewhat dejected as he looked at Sang Wan. He actually did not mean to say that, but the words just seemed toe out of his mouth the way they did. Although Sang Wan¡¯s expression might not have changed, she must be thinking that he was just giving her an excuse, her tone gave away such thoughts. But even so, he did not know where to start.


    ¡°Howe you¡¯re calling her ¡®sister¡¯ now?¡± Shi Fengju asked.


    ¡°What?¡± Sang Wan was startled and answered with a slight sneer, ¡°When you weren¡¯t back, Mother told me to do so. Now that you¡¯re back, it has be an imperative!¡±


    Shi Fengju was at a loss for words. Looking straight into Sang Wan¡¯s eyes, he felt deeply ashamed. He understood what she meant. Mother¡¯s instruction was not something she could go against, but at that time, her heart still had a glimmer of hope¡ªand that was him. She had thought that he would honor the agreement between them and change what was already nned before when he returned!


    Indeed, he did have that intention as he hurried back to stop all this from happening. As a merchant, regardless towards whom, his bones were ustomed to always put a promise above the rest.


    However, no one had thought that Gu Fangzi¡¯s father would pass away. But in the face of her teary expression as well as herints, there was no way he could reject her. And thus, things became the way they were now.


    Shi Fengju moved his lips a little. He really wished to say a word of apology, but he had already said that numerous times, and Sang Wan would definitely not buy it. Saying any more would just be useless.


    As such, he just acted foolishly and let out a cough before smiling at her. ¡°How was the set of travel notes that I brought back? Do you like it?¡±


    Oh, trying to change the topic? I haven¡¯t even said anything about that cousin of yours!


    ¡°En, it¡¯s quite good! Thank you for having the heart to do so.¡± Sang Wan nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes glistened. ¡°That is the most popr set of travel notes in the capital recently. After it was published, it was instantly sold out around the globe. It took some effort to get my hands on one.¡±


    ¡°Then it must¡¯ve been worth a lot, am I right? I¡¯ve made you spend a princely sum!¡± Sang Wan raised her head andughed.


    Seeing that she was being so polite yet a little unfriendly caused Shi Fengju to be slightly at a loss. But swiftly, he recovered and said, ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t mind it. I¡¯ve brought quite a number of things back from my trip, but because I didn¡¯t have the time, they were still left in the study room. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll have someone carry them over. Just arrange them however you wish and gift them to the other members of the family!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sang Wan nodded.


    Shi Fengju saw that she was starting to shift a little away from him. No matter the amount of enthusiasm he put in, it would all be shattered into fragments by her. The conversation continued for a little while before Shi Fengju finally lost it, and he got up. ¡°Rest early tonight! I¡¯ll be going back to the study room. I¡¯ll be back tomorrow night!¡± After some thought, he added, ¡°Fangzi¡¯s still my mother¡¯s niece. Even if I don¡¯t take her into consideration, I still have to take into ount my mother¡¯s reputation.¡±


    Sang Wan was startled. Was he trying to exin to her? She didn¡¯t hear him wrongly, did she? Wasn¡¯t Gu Fangzi the person whom he cared for the most? Why would he¡ª


    When she recovered, Shi Fengju had already left.


    Sang Wan lowered her head and tried to digest what he had said. The corner of her lips rose slightly, and her heart slowly felt a strange feeling. It was indescribable; it was slightly sour, but it had a hint of sweetness, along with a tiny bit of sadness.


    Whether his words were spoken from impulse or not, Sang Wan didn¡¯t wish to dive in deeper. There was no use in guessing because that wouldn¡¯t prove anything at all.


    Once Shi Fengju left the small garden, he looked back at the brightly lit house and smiled bitterly before letting out a sigh. Looking back in front, he lowered his head and softly called out Sang Wan¡¯s name twice before cupping his hands to the back as he slowly headed to the study room.


    His cousin Gu Fangzi. He hadpletely seen her true colors!


    Originally, he thought that marrying her was something he desired most, and it would be the happiest day of his life! But today, as he stood behind the lush greenery watching the small sedan enter the household, his heart was so calm that there was not a single ripple in it, almost as if it had nothing to do with him! He even doubted whether the choice he made to marry her was right or not.


    When he reached Peony Park, he stood at the back, quietly watching her as she cussed loudly without a stop. At that moment, there were only two words in his mind: She¡¯s ¡°absurd¡±!


    Never had he thought that she would actually have such a side to her. In ces where he could not see, she was clearly like a vicious shrew.


    Shi Fengju shuddered uncontrobly at the thought. This was the woman that he had liked for many years! How did he end up liking such a woman! Recalling all sorts of things from the past, he wondered, just what kind of affection did he have for her?


    Shi Fengju was confused. All he felt in his heart was emptiness. Some things were never like what one had imagined. He wanted to see clearly, yet his sight was blurred by ayer of fog.


    He did not allow Lan Xiang to report his presence. Instead, he chose to silently leave by himself.


    At a turn, the filths gradually drifted away, and in his mind, another figure subconsciously appeared. This time, there were all sorts of impressions and memories. There were smiles which were like blooming flowers, and there was her bashful expression when she was shy. There were also times when she acted with restraint, gentleness, elegance, and bitterness. All these belonged to one person¡ªSang Wan.


    At this moment, without his knowing, she had already filled every corner of his heart. Thinking about her, his entire heart would flutter.


    He could not help but begin paying attention to her, only to find out that her every movement, every gesture, and every expression had always attracted him. From just a short meal and a short chat, Shi Fengju was able to confirm the fact that she had already entered his heart without his knowing!


    What one desired, one would have to fight hard for them to pursue them! That was the spirit of the Shi family, and it was also something Shi Fengju had always believed in as a businessman. Of course, it did not just apply to business; it could also be used in other ces as well.


    He was never one who was willing to force himself. Just like when he had to marry the woman his parents had arranged for, he treated that woman coldly and gave all his heart to his beloved cousin, and that was something he had always nned to continue! But now, after realizing that the one whom he had liked for so many years was not like he had imagined, he would do the same and not deceive himself!


    Shi Fengju suddenly felt regretful. He regretted knowing toote, right on the very day when the ceremony was already held! If he had seen through this earlier than today, he would definitely not have weed Gu Fangzi in. Unfortunately, it was toote!


    Fortunately, there was still three years, and that was ample time to change many things! If he still was not able to settle this in three years, then even he would look down on himself.


    That evening, Shi Fengju, Sang Wan, and Gu Fangzi were destined to have a sleepless night. Shi Fengju kept tossing and turning, but his head was filled entirely with Sang Wan. asionally, he would ponder and smile, and then he would frown and sigh. Such a sensation was something he had never felt before. Sang Wan had the most tumultuous feelings, and she was extreme difficulty because she did not know whether she should remain conflicted!


    As for Gu Fangzi? Her mind was calm and clear as she schemed in her head. She was making ns on how she should go about with her uing days! She thought that to obtain something, she would have to fight for it. The difference between Shi Fengju¡¯s and her ideologies was that she would do so using any means possible!


    Early the next morning, Gu Fangzi got up. She picked a set of pale green top and white dress before ordering Lan Xiang tob her hair.


    Looking into the mirror like an unmarried girl as her hair wasbed, there was regret and hatred within her. if not for that damn old geezer dying at such a time, she would be seeing Shi Fengju right behind her through the mirror as she was putting on her makeup, and they would have been at their peak of ecstasyst night!


    Damn old geezer! He was already a burden while he was alive. To think that he would not let her live her life peacefully even in death! Gu Fangzi could not help but scowl.

 Chapter 74: Complaint

    <h4>Chapter 74: Comint</h4>


    ¡°Missy, is this alright?¡± Lan Xiang inserted a flower hairpin in Gu Fangzi¡¯s hair before asking carefully.


    Gu Fangzi took a look. Other than a silver essory hanging from the hairpin, there was only a decorative silver flower on it. The craftsmanship of the hairpin was good, but no matter how she looked at it, it was extremely cold.


    ¡°That¡¯s good enough!¡± Gu Fangzi grunted coldly. She pondered upon how she should just ask Big Cousin to get her some white and green jade essories. In the past, she had only liked brightly colored beautiful filigree, goldce cloth, handicraft ornament jadeite, sapphires, and other jewelry except for jade because they looked so dull and cold. However, she could not wear those essories that she once adored right now! Not just that, they were all confiscated by Sang Wan that b*tch!


    Gu Fangzi could not help but feel distressed. Secretly, she mulled over how she could make her spit them all out.


    After washing and dressing up, a little servant brought in her breakfast. It consisted of a bowl of eight treasures lotus porridge, a bowl of brown rice porridge, a te of pancakes, a small tray of steamed dumplings, and two or three more small dishes toplement the porridge.


    ¡°Just these?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s face suddenly sank.


    Lan Xiang understood her meaning and quickly whispered back, ¡°Missy, you¡¯re still in your mourning period, so these dishes are all vegetarian...¡±


    Mourning period this, mourning period that! Gu Fangzi was left miserable by those two words. Suppressing the anger within her, she swallowed down her misery and said no more as she sat and ate the entire breakfast prepared for her.


    After finishing her breakfast and rinsing her mouth, she got up and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, we¡¯ll go and greet Aunt!¡±


    Lan Xiang had wanted to remind her to first ce Old Master Gu¡¯s tablet on the altar and light a stick of incense, but she quickly closed her mouth.


    Walking on the path which she was extremely familiar with, the entire scenery was still the same as before, but Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart felt ufortable.


    Shouldn¡¯t her marrying in be considered a joyous event? Forget about not hanging any red, there was not even a single item to represent the celebration. Even the hangingnterns and the potted flowers had no traces of being rearranged!


    Was her arrival really not worth announcing at all?


    Sang Wan! Gu Fangzi secretly gritted her teeth. This time, she hated Sang Wan even more to the core; however, she seemed to have neglected Nanny Li.


    At this time, Wang Shi was awake at the same time as before. Without having a change of clothes, she put on a gown and arge piece of peony flower on herbed hair.


    ¡°Miss Gu hase to greet Mistress!¡± Hearing so, Wang Shi was startled and she smiled. ¡°Why so early? Really, child, why are you suddenly so polite all of a sudden! Quickly, invite her in!¡±


    Thess agreed, but before she could leave, Gu Fangzi saw herself in. Sliding the door apart, she stepped in and smiled. ¡°Aunt! Fang¡¯er hase to greet you!¡±


    ¡°Keke, good, good!¡± Wang Shi turned and looked at her in the eye. She wore clean and simple clothes, and the hairpin on her hair was also simple. Her heart was pained over the fact that Gu Fangzi actually looked more elegant than usual.


    Now that Gu Fangzi was an orphan after both her parents had passed away, Wang Shi¡¯s heart melted slightly, and she said with a smile that was filled with pity, ¡°Did you have a good rest yesterday? Why¡¯ve youe so early! Sit outside for a moment, Aunt will be ready in a while!¡±


    ¡°En, everything was fine yesterday. Thank you, Aunt, for your concern! Only Aunt treats me the best!¡± Gu Fangzi nodded. With a smile, she received an ivoryb from Nanny Jiang. ¡°It¡¯s been quite some time since Ist helped Auntb her hair. Let me do it!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s body stiffened over the thought that she was still fresh into her mourning period, but she couldn¡¯t bear to refute her good intentions, so she smiled and allowed her to do so.


    Gu Fangzi used the wide ivoryb carefully and slowly through Wang Shi¡¯s hair before using a small sandalwoodb to run through her hair again. After putting the smallb down, her ten dexterous fingers smoothened the satin-like ck hair. Within moments, the beautiful peony flower was removed before a scarlet gold hairpin, iid with a reddish blue jewel the size of a pecan, and the decorative flowers were carefully inserted through the hair.


    ¡°Aunt, your hair is still so good! ck, bright, smooth, and soft just like a satin!¡± Gu Fangzi praised with a smile.


    Wang Shi looked into the mirror and observed herself. Satisfied with Gu Fangzi¡¯s skill, she grabbed her hand and smiled. ¡°Keke, Aunt is starting to have some white hair already, so it¡¯s not as good as you say anymore! But your skills are much better than before! Youbed my hair quickly and neatly, and my heart agrees wholeheartedly!¡±


    While helping Wang Shi up, Gu Fangzi smiled. ¡°If Aunt would like, in the future, I can helpb Aunt¡¯s hair every day.¡±


    ¡°That¡ª¡± Wang Shi gently patted her hand andughed. ¡°You still have to mourn. That¡¯ll tire you out if you have to keep rushing here every day!¡± With that, she let out a sigh, ¡°My good child, oh how you¡¯ve suffered!¡±


    All the grievances that she suffered yesterday rushed to her heart, and her eyes turned red. She intimately pulled Wang Shi¡¯s arm and gently cuddled it before whispering softly, ¡°Having Aunt care for me, I don¡¯t feel miserable at all! Really! As long as Aunt¡¯s around, Fang¡¯er will be even happier and more at ease!¡±


    Wang Shi loved her yet pitied her at the same time. Thinking of the time when she followed her around when she was still so young, she was no different from her own children. The sense of pity hardened in her heart, and Wang Shi raised her hand to gently touch Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand. ¡°Foolishss, what are you saying! Don¡¯t worry. From today on, we¡¯re a family! Aunt will not let you suffer from any unfair treatment!¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Gu Fangzi grinned and said, ¡°I just knew Aunt cares for me the most and treats me the best!¡±


    The two looked at each other and smiled.


    ¡°Oh, Sister, you¡¯vee!¡± From the corner of her eyes, she saw Sang Wan standing by the doorway with no intention to enter or leave. Gu Fangzi was surprised, and she let out a cry as she hurriedly let go of Wang Shi¡¯s arm. After recovering from the shock, she took two gradual steps and stood well-behaved at the side.


    Sang Wan smiled and entered. Seeing that Wang Shi was already seated down, she stepped forward and gave her greeting. Recalling the scene she just saw, she tried to convince herself not to think about it too much!


    ¡°En, take a seat and we¡¯ll chat!¡± Wang Shi smiled and nodded.


    ¡°Fangzi, you have a seat too,¡± Wang Shi smiled and said to Gu Fangzi who was standing behind her.


    Gu Fangzi did not move as she gazed at Sang Wan to seek her opinion. Anger red in the corner of Sang Wan¡¯s eyes. What is she trying to gain acting like this in front of Mother-inw?


    Sang Wan pretended not to see her and gently took a sip from a tea cup before admiring its pattern.


    ¡°Fangzi, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Wang Shi felt displeased. Following Gu Fangzi¡¯s line of sight, she looked at Sang Wan. Since Sang Wan did not notice Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression at all, Wang Shi¡¯s heart rxed, and sheughed. ¡°Don¡¯t just stand there. Take a seat!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Aunt.¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and only then did she finally sit down.


    Sang Wan secretly sneered. If she had met with Gu Fangzi¡¯s gaze, or even worse, told her to take a seat, she would have announced the fact that she really was bullying her! Wouldn¡¯t her mother-inw be annoyed if that were to happen?


    Moreover, her mother-inw would surely be slightly displeased even if her face did not show it. Sang Wan also believed that even if her mother-inw did not think so, Gu Fangzi would surely make ns for her to think otherwise.


    After some conversation, Wang Shi smiled and gestured to Sang Wan to show that she could leave. Sang Wan also did not wish to remain any longer to watch those two disy their deep affection towards each other. And so, she stood up and said her goodbye.


    Gu Fangzi quickly stood up and took two steps forward as she helped support Sang Wan¡¯s arm. ¡°Sister, let me see you out!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart sneered, You aren¡¯t even the owner of this house, so what gives you the qualifications to ¡®see¡¯ me out?


    ¡°No need,¡± Sang Wan quietly raised her hand and signaled to Liu Ya to help her. With a smile, she said to Gu Fangzi, ¡°Mother hasn¡¯t seen you for some time, so I¡¯m sure there are many things she¡¯d like to speak with you about! It¡¯ll be best for you to apany and chat with mother!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Fangzi. Let Sang Wan go. You can stay here and chat with me for a little while!¡± Wang Shiughed.


    ¡°Okay, Aunt, as long as you like it, Fang¡¯er can apany you every day!¡± With her back facing Wang Shi, she raised her brow coldly at Sang Wan.


    Wang Shi could not see Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression, but she could see Sang Wan¡¯s clearly. With no change in her expression, Sang Wan smiled gently. ¡°Oh yes, the incense candle and joss papers have been prepared already. In a little while, I¡¯ll send someone to send them to Peony Park. In the future, if Sister still needs anything else, she may speak directly with Nanny Li! She may be an elderly, but she¡¯s very capable. She¡¯ll definitely not make a single mistake that will cause Sister any problems!¡±


    The meaning behind her statement was clear. You¡¯re still in your mourning period, so don¡¯t openly try to get close with your aunt and neglect your father!


    Sang Wan took a quick nce, and without a doubt, Wang Shi was slightly affected by that.


    ¡°I will. Thank you, Sister! I¡¯ll go over to the small gardenter to thank Sister again!¡± Gu Fangzi stood stiffly as she red hatefully at Sang Wan.


    ¡°Sister, you¡¯re wee!¡± Sang Wan smiled generously before curtsying towards Wang Shi, ¡°Mother, Sang Wan shall take her leave then!¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes!¡± Wang Shi nodded.


    ¡°Fangzi ah,¡± As expected, Wang Shi smiled with no doubts and said, ¡°Aunt doesn¡¯t need you to serve here. You should return to Peony Park quickly! After all, he¡¯s your biological father! The deceased rank higher than the living. Just let go of the things he did in the past, and let¡¯s not mention them again!¡±


    Gu Fangzi resented Sang Wan from the bottom of her heart, but she obediently nodded at Wang Shi. ¡°En, Fang¡¯er shall leave too! Aunt is kind and generous, and Fangzi has learnt a lot! Fangzi shall listen to Aunt!¡±


    ¡°I just knew Fangzi is the most sensible!¡± Pleased, Wang Shi smiled.


    Gu Fangzi nodded. Before she was about to leave, she asked, ¡°Oh yes, Aunt, Fang¡¯er just thought that maybe she should go and pay Big Cousin a visit. Fang¡¯er hasn¡¯t seen him for some time now, and Fang¡¯er isn¡¯t sure how he¡¯s doing now...¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Wang Shi raised a brow and questioned, ¡°He didn¡¯t visit you yesterday? He didn¡¯t go to Peony Park to see you?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t,¡± Gu Fangzi shook her head. Without showing any dissatisfaction on her her face, she smiled. ¡°I presume he must be busy! After all, the family depends on him to run therge business. Moreover, the whole day yesterday made Fangzi tired, and Big Cousin was understanding about it!¡±


    Outrageous! Wang Shi scolded in her heart. Even if she married in within the hundred days of the mourning period and they did not do the deed, he should not have treated her this way. After all, as a husband, shouldn¡¯t he at least see her? Just what¡¯s with this indifference towards her all of a sudden?


    Of course, Wang Shi was displeased. But her son was much closer to her than her niece, and so she would not say speak of Shi Fengju behind his back in front of Gu Fangzi.

 Chapter 75: A Frontal Attack

    <h4>Chapter 75: A Frontal Attack</h4>


    But since Gu Fangzi did not seem to mind, Wang Shi felt apologetic towards her and smiled. ¡°You should return to Peony Park first! Your Big Cousin might be busy! Maybe you can visit him when he¡¯s free!¡±


    With those words, Gu Fangzi understood her meaning and was pleased with the oue. With a smile, she agreed before taking her leave.


    ¡°Nanny Jiang, send someone to go and see what Fengju¡¯s doing! If he¡¯s not busy, call him here!¡± Once Gu Fangzi left, Wang Shi immediately ordered.


    Gu Fangzi left the courtyard proudly and slowly returned to Peony Court. On the way, she saw eleven to twelve servants carrying a number of wooden cases in the direction of the small garden. She turned to gaze at the direction they were going from which seemed to be from Shi Fengju¡¯s study room.


    Gu Fangzi stopped in her steps. ¡°Go and ask just what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Lan Xiang nodded and hurriedly went up to ask. After a while, she returned and reported, ¡°They are gifts that the young master had brought back from his trip. He has called those servants to carry them to Ma¡¯am who¡¯s in the small garden...¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart suddenly tightened, and a glint shed past across her eyes as she spoke, ¡°Come, we¡¯ll go to the small garden too and greet Ma¡¯am!¡±


    Big Cousin, his heart has really changed for someone else! In the past, the best things would always be sent to her first whenever he returned from a trip. But this time around, he didn¡¯t even mention anything to her and openly sent the things over to the small garden! That Sang Wan must have used some vicious trick to steal Big Cousin¡¯s heart away!


    ¡°Missy, we, we should just return...¡± Lan Xiang was taken aback, and her hair was standing on its ends.


    Not again! One can already see that the young master has ced some importance on Ma¡¯am, so why must Missy go and stir up trouble?


    ¡°What? Scared?¡± Gu Fangzi grunted.


    ¡°Not at all, not at all!¡± Lan Xiang shrank her neck. ¡°Nubi, nubi just thinks that... it won¡¯t be good...¡±


    ¡°Shut up! You¡¯re in no position to say that!¡± Gu Fangzi sneered, ¡°Won¡¯t be good? I don¡¯t think so! Even if she does not recognize me as her sister, I¡¯ll call her sister no matter what!¡±


    Calling her ¡®sister¡¯ was already gaining an expense out of her!


    When Gu Fangzi arrived, the servants had already delivered all the wooden cases and ced them down. Receiving their mary reward one by one, they said their thanks and took their leave. The five to sixrge wooden cases in the side hall were particrly eye-catching.


    ¡°Sister!¡± Not waiting for her presence to be reported, she swung her handkerchief as she entered. ¡°Younger Sister hase to greet Sister!¡±


    ¡°Oh? Sister is here? Quickly take a seat!¡± Sang Wan smiled slightly as she ordered for tea to be served.


    Gu Fangziughed. ¡°I haven¡¯t served Sister any tea yet, and here I am, able to drink Sister¡¯s good tea! This really makes Younger Sister feel more than entitled!¡±


    Those words made others ufortable. Liu Ya, Hong Ye, and the rest could not help but frown. Nanny Liughed and said, ¡°Laonu must say ah, Miss Gu really does things with rity! But sometimes, overstepping that line isn¡¯t good! Just like now, it¡¯s still quite early, so there¡¯s no need for Miss Gu toe all the way here to greet Ma¡¯am; three yearster isn¡¯t toote! Laonu thinks Miss Gu should stay in Peony Park to mourn. Or is Old Master Gu unhappy being in heaven, and so Miss Gu no longer has to do her part!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression stiffened all of a sudden, but she quickly directed a smile at Sang Wan. ¡°Here I thought that the small garden is controlled by Sister, but I guess it¡¯s not! Nanny Li worries too much! Aren¡¯t you afraid of others saying that you don¡¯t know how to let go and treat yourself like a member of the family! Keke, fortunately, Nanny doesn¡¯t have a daughter, or else the daughter would¡¯ve inherited her authority. Then there¡¯ll never be a chance for Sister to have control over the small garden! Oh, if my memory¡¯s correct, I¡¯ve just made a mistake! Nanny Li does have a daughter, doesn¡¯t she? A goddaughter ya!¡± As she said that, she began giggling to herself.


    Nanny Li¡¯s expression turned grim as she questioned, ¡°You, what¡¯s the meaning of that?¡±


    Gu Fangzi sneered, ¡°It seems I am not wrong; this small garden really is Nanny Li¡¯s realm! Who would dare go against whatever Nanny wishes to do? I mean, which other household would have a servant daring enough to interrupt their masters when they are speaking? And which other household would have a servant so daring enough to say ¡®you, you, me, me¡¯ in front of a master? Oh, I¡¯ve made a mistake again! Nanny Li has been a great contributor to this family¡¯s affairs and has a say in front of the mistress, so how can I address you as a servant!¡± Gu Fangzi said without care for Nanny Li¡¯s ghastly face and pale lips. Acting pitiful, she went on, ¡°Nanny, Fangzi¡¯s still young and knows not what she can and cannot say, let alone how to get on your good side! So please don¡¯t me Fangzi! If you were to go andin to the mistress, then Fangzi really wouldn¡¯t want to be held responsible! And so, Fangzi shall seek your forgiveness!¡±


    Having said that, she rose and bowed slightly towards Nanny Li.


    Nanny Li was already so furious that she was speechlessly trembling.


    In her heart, a few words constantly crashed into her heart, This ce is no longer a ce to stay anymore, this ce is no longer a ce to stay anymore...


    The crowd went silent, and they looked at one another. The atmosphere was extremely unusual.


    ¡°Laonu,onu...¡± Nanny Li¡¯s face was ghastly as an indescribable expression of pain, embarrassment, and suffering hung from it. She had not expected that someone would think and say something like this to her! Was she really in the wrong? All she did was be the young master¡¯s nanny as she watched him grow, wish him well, and see the family well; nothing more!


    Her child, her husband, her entire family were all gone! All her efforts were ced on the young master! He was her sustenance and the pir of her will.


    She devoted herself to serve, but it never came to her mind that in the eyes of others, she was arrogant and despotic¡ªone who disregarded the hierarchy!


    ¡°Sister, how can you say that?¡± Sang Wan stood up and tightly held onto Nanny Li¡¯s hand before scowling. ¡°Having Nanny here to advise me is my blessing. If not for Nanny, this small garden would have turned foul! Nanny is a master in this garden, not a servant! If Sister disagrees with me, then Sister may speak with Mistress and Sir to discuss about it! By saying such a thing in front of me, who do you think you¡¯re trying to educate?¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± Nanny Li¡¯s eyes were red, and she sniffled noisily.


    Gu Fangzi smirked and mocked Sang Wan without fear, ¡°You see her as a deity to help you whenever you¡¯re in need. Isn¡¯t that just getting someone else to do all your dirty work! In the end, she¡¯s nothing but just an old foolish woman who¡¯s just trying to convince herself that she¡¯s useful! Once a knife gets rusty and useless, I¡¯m sure the one who would want her out the most would be you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi words immediately shocked the entire crowd. Some thought to themselves, Is that really so? Thinking about it, the moment Nanny Li returned, she did really do quite a lot for Ma¡¯am! Those that Ma¡¯am found inconvenient to do or say were all handled by Nanny Li.


    Nanny Li¡¯s expression also turned slightly discolored as her heart was suddenly now in chaos!


    ¡°Even if you¡¯vee just to sow discord, you shouldn¡¯t say something as harsh as that! You can just think however you like, for no one change that, but don¡¯t go around trying to make others think the same way as you do because not everyone¡¯s like you! Nanny has been in this household for many decades, and the number of hardships she has gone through is surely more than the grains of rice we have eaten. I¡¯m sure there¡¯s no need for others to give any advice as to the way she handles things. Whatever she does are all from the heart and are the things she should do, but why does Sister¡¯s meaning seem to be different when Sister speaks of Nanny Li¡¯s actions? Younger Sister, you think too highly of Sister, but you¡¯re looking down on Nanny! I deeply respect Nanny only because of one reason¡ªshe is my husband¡¯s nanny! In the small garden, there will always be a ce for Nanny!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± Nanny Li was so touched that she almost copsed on the floor foolishly. She was deeply regretful for having been influenced by Gu Fangzi just then. She quickly kneeled in front of Sang Wan and swore, ¡°With Ma¡¯am¡¯s words,onu will do her best to serve Ma¡¯am! Even ifonu¡¯s bones were to shatter,onu will do so without any regrets!¡±


    ¡°Nanny, quickly get up!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly went to help Nanny Li up before saying gently, ¡°Nanny, don¡¯t take those gossips to heart! You should think more about Sir and Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, Ma¡¯am is right!¡± The energy returned to Nanny Li¡¯s eyes as she nodded repeatedly. Herplexion also recovered a lot more. Ma¡¯am was right; so long as she worked hard to serve them and the young master had no objections, why did she have to care about what others have to say? Those people are ¡®unrted¡¯! Why the need for her to care at all!


    Gu Fangzi was annoyed by the phrase ¡®my husband,¡¯ and it made her furious. With a cold sneer, she spoke, ¡°Sang Wan, that was a good trick up your sleeve. A good trick ah! I really did belittle you! You sure are talented when ites to buying other people¡¯s hearts! Hmph, it¡¯s always good to listen to advice ah. For those who don¡¯t buy it, you will know when the timees whether I¡¯m right or wrong! Each and every one of you,¡± Gu Fangzi pointed at Liu Ya and the crowd and coldly spoke, ¡°Open your eyes and wipe them clear! Listen carefully and determine for yourself whether I¡¯m right or not!¡± Then she turned to Sang Wan, ¡°And you, what ¡®my husband¡¯? You aren¡¯t worthy to say that! In this household, everyone knows that Big Cousin had to marry you without a choice, or he wouldn¡¯t have kept on dragging and postponing the wedding date! Really, do you seriously think you¡¯re this household¡¯s Ma¡¯am! As if!¡±


    ¡°Fangzi!¡± Shi Fengju barged in from outside. His face was grim and full of anger as he red sharply at Gu Fangzi¡¯s face.


    Gu Fangzi was taken aback, and her face turned sallow as she stammered, ¡°Big Cousin...¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin, since things have already reached this stage, there¡¯s no need for Big Cousin to hide it from Sister anymore. Why not simply make things clear now? It¡¯ll be better for all of us! And Big Cousin, you don¡¯t have to endure so hard anymore!¡± After a moment of silence, the thought came to Gu Fangzi¡¯s mind and she quickly changed her tone of speaking.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Shi Fengju was extremely furious. His business was not for others to dictate! ¡°You, get out of my sight now!¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin...¡±


    ¡°Out, now!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s face was extremely bitter and cold.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s tears trickled down her cheeks, and she fled out while covering her face with her sleeve. ¡°Missy!¡± Lan Xiang called out before quickly chasing after her from behind.


    Sang Wan found it difficult to ept!


    She stood rigid on her spot as her mind began buzzing. Gu Fangzi was not wrong; everyone in this household knew, but none of them dared to speak of it in front of her. Suddenly smashed with this fact, no one could understand the mood she was having now.


    Even after seeing Shi Fengju chase Gu Fangzi away, the embarrassment in her heart still did not subside, not even by a little.

 Chapter 76: Retreat In Order to Advance is No Longer Working

    <h4>Chapter 76: Retreat In Order to Advance is No Longer Working</h4>


    Shi Fengju looked at Sang Wan. Her face was pale, and she was trembling slightly as she tried to hold herself back. His heart ached the moment he recalled those words Gu Fangzi said. He had the impulse of wanting to hold her in his arms to pamper andfort her, but he could see the pain and coldness in her eyes which made him restrain himself.


    He knew that she knew Gu Fangzi¡¯s words were true. Even though he had really wanted to tell her that that was in the past, and he was now different because he had found the one who truly deserved his love and care, who truly deserved to be protected. And that person was her!


    But deep down, he knew that she would not believe him because he himself found it unbelievable.


    ¡°Young Master...¡± Nanny Li was pained when she looked at Sang Wan¡¯s face. After a moment of silence, she finally couldn¡¯t bear it anymore and winced.


    ¡°Nanny, I know!¡± Shi Fengju gently interrupted Nanny Li. Nodding towards her, he motioned, ¡°Nanny, can all of you leave us for a moment! I would like to speak with Sang Wan alone.¡±


    ¡°...Understood, then we shall take our leave.¡± Nanny Li nodded, but she cast another worried nce at Sang Wan.


    The servants bowed and lowered their heads as they left silently. Recalling the fact that Shi Fengju and Sang Wan were a fake couple, Liu Ya nibbled her lips as she held back the fierce anger in her heart while Nanny Li dragged her out.


    Shi Fengju did not know what to say, but he heard Sang Wan say softly, ¡°Actually, everyone already knows about it, so it doesn¡¯t really bothers me! It¡¯s just that, if someone were to stir up trouble, Sir must not forget to be by my side. I don¡¯t wish to suffer from the anger of others due to such trifles.¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but look straight at the woman in front of his eyes. She was calm and gentle, as if the pain and suffering which he saw earlier was just an illusion. That, however, pained Shi Fengju¡¯s heart even more.


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen,¡± Shi Fengju said gently to her, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re the ma¡¯am of this household, and you have the authority to teach others to behave. If someone is rude to you, you can punish them by the rules! And there¡¯s also me to back you up!¡±


    ¡°Hearing you say that, I feel relieved!¡± Sang Wan softly agreed with ¡°en¡± before nodding gently.


    Shi Fengju could not help but feel happy. ¡°Sang Wan, you¡ª¡ªaren¡¯t angry anymore?¡±


    Sang Wan was astonished and sheughed. ¡°What¡¯s there for me to get angry at! You¡¯re just thinking too much!¡± I don¡¯t want to have your mother scolding me again, Sang Wan thought to herself.


    ¡°Then, then that¡¯s good, that¡¯s good!¡± Shi Fengju was overjoyed and he said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to worry, and don¡¯t let the incident just now get to you! Just let me handle it.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Shi Fengju suddenly did not know what else to say. His originally perturbed feelings suddenly quietened down. She was not angry, so shouldn¡¯t he be happy? But seeing that she did not seem to somewhat care, he felt a little dejected.


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave first, you...¡± Shi Fengju nced at her and stopped.


    ¡°Go on with your work!¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°Come back early for dinner. I¡¯ll wait for you to have it together.¡± If her hunch was right, Gu Fangzi would surely look for Shi Fengju and try to keep him in Peony Park. She had to prevent that, especially after what Gu Fangzi had said. That kind of thing must not happen!


    ¡°I will, I¡¯ll be back in a while!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart became overjoyed once again, and a smile emerged on his face without his knowing.


    ¡°Nanny, Nanny should know how to deal with what happened just now, right?¡± Outside at the corridor, Shi Fengju stopped in his steps.


    Even if Shi Fengju did not say that, for Sang Wan, Nanny Li would definitely have dealt with it herself. But since Shi Fengju had said so, he was giving Sang Wan his support, and Nanny Li was definitely obliged to do so. With a firm voice, she said, ¡°Young Master, don¡¯t worry,onu understands! Those words that Miss Gu said, if word of it gets out,onu will surely investigate and put those responsible up for sale without fail! Those who know the culprit but don¡¯t speak up will also be punished severely!¡±


    The servants were startled, and they immediately lowered their heads.


    ¡°Good, then I shall leave it all to Nanny Li!¡± Shi Fengju swept a nce across the servants before nodding at Nanny Li with a smile.


    ¡°Understood, Young Master!¡± Nanny Li stood straight and answered.


    Shi Fengju strode off as he gripped his palms subconsciously. Fangzi ah, Fangzi, I¡¯m really not sure whether you know me too well, or you don¡¯t know me at all! To actually use my mother to pressure me! If I, Shi Fengju, can¡¯t coax my own mother, then there¡¯s no need for me to continue running my business anymore!


    Recalling the questions he had to hear from his mother, he was able to give her an understated exnation to answer those questions when he said that he had actually gone to Peony Parkst night, but because his cousin was too tired, he did not want to bother her so he left since the servants in Peony Park had already seen him anyway. His mother would naturally believe him, and so his statement became a fact.


    However, his heart still did not feelfortable!


    And so, once he left, he went straight to Peony Park, for he did not know what else his cousin had prepared for him. But to think that she had actually gone to the small garden.


    He arrived there precisely at the moment she started scolding Sang Wan and making a scene. At that moment, the image of that woman in his heart instantly copsed entirely, breaking into pieces!


    Shi Fengju could not believe that during the times when he and her mother were not around, Gu Fangzi would be so arrogant and uncontroble. Recalling how Sang Wan was so jittery and frightened as if she was treading on ice, Shi Fengju finally understood why.


    The moment Shi Fengju took a step into Peony Park, Gu Fangzi was in her room crying while Lan Xiang was coaxing her by her side.


    ¡°Young Master, you¡¯re here!¡± Lan Xiang looked up and saw Shi Fengju. Surprised and ted, she cried out to Gu Fangzi, ¡°Missy! Young Master hase! Young Master hase to see you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s uneasy heart finally rxed, and she immediately retreated by a foot. With her back facing Shi Fengju, she sobbed coldly, ¡°What¡¯re you here for? Aren¡¯t you going to apany your Sang Wan? Why stille to Peony Park!¡±


    In the past when she cried and became erratic, Shi Fengju could do nothing else but to apologize and coax her until she smiled. But today, his eyes were cold. His heart felt no surge or movement. Seeing her having such an attitude made him detest her even more, and a whirl of disgust bellowed in his heart.


    ¡°I have some words to tell you. If you don¡¯t want to hear me now, then forget it! It¡¯s not toote if you want to hear from me again.¡± Shi Fengju stood three meters away from her. He did not approach her, and his tone now was extremely cold¡ªsomething which never happened in the past.


    Gu Fangzi whimpered, and her shoulders stiffened. The first thought which came to her mind was, Sang Wan, that wicked Sang Wan must¡¯veined about me!


    Gu Fangzi was somewhat regretful. She regretted running out of the small garden at that time and giving Sang Wan the chance to do so.


    ¡°Since you aren¡¯t here tofort me, and you don¡¯t wish to see me, then what did youe here for? Leave, leave now!¡± Gu Fangzi continued to sob even more so than before.


    ¡°Missy! Missy!¡± Lan Xiang cried bitterly and gently pulled on Gu Fangzi¡¯s sleeve. Gu Fangzi could not see Shi Fengju¡¯s face clearly, but Lan Xiang could.


    Shi Fengju could not help but rub his forehead. Even now, she still behaves like such! He suddenly felt as if they were two separate beings from different worlds who wanted tomunicate, but the entire process would be too difficult.


    ¡°Then I shall leave! We¡¯ll talk again when you¡¯ve thought things through clearly!¡± Shi Fengju did not hesitate and turned to leave.


    Gu Fangzi stood frozen. That was absolutely unimaginable! She turned her head around and watched Shi Fengju¡¯s back. Her lips moved a little as her heart grew furious and exasperated before she cried, ¡°Well, go then, go! Don¡¯t think of stepping foot through Peony Park¡¯s gate anymore!¡±


    Shi Fengju turned a deaf ear to it. He scoffed and shook his head.


    The entire yard was quiet. Gu Fangzi had finally stopped crying.


    ¡°Missy...¡± Lan Xiang called out gently, but she dared not do more than that.


    A wave of uneasiness shed past Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart, but she did not wish for others to see it. Her face darkened, and she said coldly, ¡°What are you standing there for? Go and fetch some water for me to wash my face!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang lowered her head and left.


    Gu Fangzi washed her face and hands clean as if nothing had happened just now before taking a sip off a cup of tea. Her pair of eyes nced at the door asionally.


    After a long while, the courtyard gate did not make a single sound. The familiar figure of Shi Fengju also did not appear. Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart gradually became uneasy. How can this happen? In the past, Big Cousin should have already returned by now with small gifts to coax me. But today, why isn¡¯t heing?


    Gu Fangzi very quickly gave herself an answer, He must be too preupied with work!


    Soon after, her heart felt indignant. She was already in such a state, yet he still had the heart to be busy with something else! He truly must have been bewitched by that fox Sang Wan!


    ¡°Lan Xiang, go and see if the young master is in the study room. If he¡¯s not, then ask around for his actual location. If he¡¯s there, invite him toe over for lunch!¡± Gu Fangzi instructed Lan Xiang. And she did not forget to add, ¡°Also, don¡¯t say it¡¯s me who wants to invite him over. Say you did it of your own ord. You should know what to say, right?¡±


    Lan Xiang had done such a thing numerous times. Every time the two had a quarrel, she always had to be the one to y the role of a matchmaker.


    ¡°Missy...¡± Lan Xiang became silent. Missy has only just married into the household and is still in her mourning period, so why is she creating such a ruckus! Chasing off the young master when he¡¯s here, then when he doesn¡¯t return to you, you want him back using nubi. Nubi really feels ¡ª¡ª embarrassed ah!


    ¡°Go now!¡± Gu Fangzi raised a brow sharply.


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang did not dare refuse, and she could only bite the bullet. Her mind thought of some gentle words to say to weaken his heart first and then give her Missy¡¯s apology on her behalf before saying the pitiful state her Missy was in to shake the young master¡¯s heart. She had a hunch that if she were unsessful, things would definitely not end up well for her.


    Fortunately, Shi Fengju had gone to observe a store in the afternoon. Lan Xiang secretly let out a sigh before returning to Gu Fangzi briskly.


    ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, then fix your eyes at the study room. When Big Cousin returns, invite him over! You know what to say!¡± Gu Fangzi said before taking in a deep breath.


    ¡°Understood...¡± As a servant, Lan Xiang could only agree.


    Gu Fangzi finally got up to settle her father¡¯s tablet. She burned three sticks of incense, and as the smoke lingered, she looked up at her father¡¯s memorial tablet before letting out a soft sigh. Why must such a person like him be her father!

 Chapter 77: Tenacity

    <h4>Chapter 77: Tenacity</h4>


    Shi Fengju returned to the study room, and before he could ce down the ounts book in his hand and several other items, Lan Xiang had appeared.


    ¡°Young Master, our Missy has been thinking of you the entire afternoon! What happened between Young Master and Missy just now was only because of her bad mood. She didn¡¯t want to fume at you intentionally! Missy really is pitiful. Young Master, please go and see her!¡±


    In the past, whenever Lan Xiang were to say those, the thought of Gu Fangzi¡¯s pitiful state would always melt Shi Fengju¡¯s heart. But not today. Hearing so only irked him even more. He had traveled extensively and had seen many pitiful people under the heavens. In contrast, Gu Fangzi was already considered fortunate enough as even a Missy from a rich family could notpare to her! How pitiful could she be?


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Shi Fengju said rather nonchntly, ¡°Then you should apany her more since I don¡¯t have the free time to do so!¡±


    Lan Xiang was shaken by the sight of Shi Fengju¡¯s rejection, but she quickly smiled as she coaxed, ¡°Yes, nubi shall return now to apany Missy and persuade her! Then, then maybeter at night, can Young Mastere over to have dinner with Missy? Missy has been remorseful the entire day for treating Young Master as such, and she kept talking over and over about how she would really like to apologize to Young Master!¡±


    ¡°An apology won¡¯t be necessary!¡± Shi Fengju said with a faint smile, ¡°Just pass on the message to tell her to be more cautious when she speaks and acts! I don¡¯t have the time today. When I¡¯m free, I¡¯ll go to see her! Enough, you may go!¡±


    Lan Xiang did not dare to say anymore as she acknowledged his order before taking her leave.


    Gu Fangzi felt disappointed after listening to Lan Xiang. ¡°Not free? I do not know when Big Cousin has be so busy! Go, go and fix your eyes on him and see if he will go to the small garden!¡±


    Lan Xiang gave a distressed look at Gu Fangzi which was met with a firm re instead. Without a choice, she had to brace herself yet again.


    Sure enough, as Gu Fangzi had expected, Shi Fengju really went to the small garden.


    ¡°I knew it! I knew it!¡± Gu Fangzi was so furious that her lips trembled as she paced about the house.


    Lan Xiang sped her hands together as she watched silently. She thought to herself, The small garden is where the young master and Ma¡¯am lives. Isn¡¯t it normal for the young master to return to the small garden? It seems Missy has be foolish to be even mad at such a thing!


    Lan Xiang sighed to herself, If she¡¯s going to be mad at something like this, then how mad will she be for other matters toe! Bing a concubine after marrying into the household, there¡¯s no way she can remain as the same Miss Gu anymore. Why can¡¯t Missy face the reality!


    ¡°You go back again,¡± Gu Fangzi suddenly stopped moving and said, and Lan Xiang nearly copsed on the floor.


    ¡°Big Cousin will usually return to the study room in the evening, so go and see if he does. And if he does, report back to me!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang¡¯s heart finally rxed. She had almost thought that she was going to be sent for a death sentence, but who knew it¡¯d really be that!


    Asking her to inquire from the darkness was still alright, but if Missy was sending her out again to invite the young master over, the young master might really punish her severely!


    Not too long after Lan Xiang left the study room, Shi Fengju returned to the small garden.


    He saw Sang Wan sitting by the ledge of the window sewing something. Her white and slender neck looked delicate and beautiful under the faint light. From his direction, the side of her face was soft and gentle, and her red lips looked tender as their edges rose a little. She was extremely lovely yet pitiful at the same time. Under the faint light, she exuded a tranquil and elegant disposition.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart fluttered for a moment before calming down. His dejected heart was wiped clean in an instant. The subtle warmth and calmness gradually filled his heart as if spring water was slowly being released into his heart. Such a sensation gave him the feeling of warmth and reluctance. Is this how it feels to be home?


    Having lowered her head for quite some time, Sang Wan gently looked up and stretched her arms back for a while. Her eyes were like a pair of gems as they glistened under the faint light, and upon seeing Shi Fengju who was standing there without moving, she quickly got up to walk towards him. She then called out to him, ¡°Sir, you¡¯re back!¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Shi Fengju walked up and smiled, ¡°What were you sewing?¡± He was extremely happy to hear those three words she said to wee him back.


    ¡°It¡¯s a headwear for Mother,¡± Sang Wan smiled, ¡°My craftsmanship isn¡¯t that good. I¡¯ve been making it for several days, and it¡¯s still not yetplete!¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but want to feel the headwear. It was purple, and embroidered on both sides was a chrysanthemum pattern. The middle was not embroidered, so that it could be embedded with a jewel or a jade. The bright satin material felt veryfortable with the cotton as the inner lining. The headwear was soft to the touch, causing no abrasions on the skin.


    ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard, so Mother will surely like it!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and ced it down, but his mood turned a little sour. She seemed to never have thought of sewing something for him!


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good!¡± Sang Wan smiled before saying, ¡°Oh yes, I¡¯ve already divided the things that Sir brought back into several categories. There are things that I don¡¯t know whom to give to, so Sir, why don¡¯t you have a look for yourself!¡±


    As Sang Wan spoke, she took several pieces of paper over to him and handed them to him. The others were fine, but as for Gu Fangzi, she was sure that woman would have ament for her regardless what she gives, so might as well push it all cleanly to him.


    Shi Fengju was somewhat unhappy and also helpless. Since he had already given everything to her, then shouldn¡¯t it mean that he had let her assume responsibility? Regardless of how she distributed the items, he would have no opinion. But in the end, the decision was still on him!


    But that¡¯s fine, there will still be many days toe!


    Shi Fengju encouraged himself and received the paper. But upon seeing that everything was written neatly in order with all the names and quantities of the goods, all he had to do was correspond the goods with the paper.


    She ah, is just being too careful!


    But thinking of her difficulties while standing in her position, Shi Fengju could entirely empathize with her.


    Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°I already had someone send a prepared set for Mother and the Seconds. It was my bad for not being clear. The majority of these are for you, but you can pick a few and gift them to a few sisters and nannies!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes widened, and she looked at Shi Fengju in disbelief.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s dark eyes gazed into hers, almost as if his gaze could dive deep into her heart. ¡°Of course they are, you¡¯re Ma¡¯am Shi. There may asionally be peopleing to visit, and there¡¯s also the need to reward the people in the household. Since these goods are of good quality, you can keep them to reward others and maybe gift some away.¡±


    With that said, he pulled out the piece of paper before pointing at it to mention, ¡°These few pieces of lynx and red fox fur, as well as those brocades, gems, cosmetics, a schr set from the capital, and a few jade porcins, are yours. As for the rest, you can just gift them to others however you like.¡±


    His suddenly bing so good towards her made her somewhat surprised, sending her into a daze. After a while, she smiled back at him. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have someone put those aside! Once I have everything settled, I¡¯ll have someone send the gifts to their respective recipients.¡± After some thought, she continued, ¡°But I¡¯m not sure what Sister Gu would like! How about Sir seeing it for himself!¡±


    Since these were for her, then she would ept them wholeheartedly! Unfortunately, the prices of all these gifts were difficult to gauge due to their rarity! It would¡¯ve been better had they been silvers! Sang Wan secretly sighed to herself.


    As for anything to do with Gu Fangzi, Sang Wan had made up her mind to not get involved with her!


    Hearing her address Gu Fangzi as ¡°Sister Gu,¡± Shi Fengju felt somewhat ufortable, and he said carelessly, ¡°It¡¯s fine to just let Nanny Li pick out the jewelry and fabrics.¡± After giving it another thought, he added, ¡°From today on, she¡¯s a concubine. Things will be different now; it should be her who shows you respect! If there¡¯s anything you¡¯re unhappy with, you can just discipline her by the rules.¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but secretly roll her eyes. Discipline her and handle her? Before you or mother-inw can say anything, who knows what else that woman will have already said! Unless I¡¯m foolish enough, I wouldn¡¯t even want to provoke her! In the event that I¡¯m not the one managing the household, that woman might have already torn down this ce! Since you¡¯ve already said so today, are you trying to tell me that if she were to make an even greater ruckus, you won¡¯te forward personally?


    ¡°I understand.¡± Sang Wan grinned and nodded, but her heart was determined not to do anything.


    Shi Fengju just took it that she understood the reason he had done so was to protect her, and he smiled.


    After the two had dinner, they sat to chat idly for a while before Shi Fengju finally stood up to return to the study room. ¡°I still have some things to handle, so I¡¯ll be back a littleter. The lighting at night isn¡¯t good, so don¡¯t do your needlework now. Also, read a little less. Maybe have a chat with Nanny, Zhide, and the rest of them. If you¡¯re tired, you can go to sleep first. You don¡¯t need to wait for me!¡±


    Feeling a sense of warmth, Sang Wan rose to see him off as she smiled. ¡°Then when I¡¯m tired, I¡¯ll really head to bed before you! Do you want me to have the small kitchen prepare some supper for you?¡±


    ¡°Anything!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and left. A wife is no doubt the best, she is so gentle...


    Shi Fengju could not help but nudge his head. He must have been truly blind in the past. A pearl was right in front of his eyes, yet he couldn¡¯t see it. Instead, he went to grab the fisheye bead and treated it as his precious!


    What a pity. Now that he wanted to treat that someone as his precious, that person wouldn¡¯t ept him.


    ¡°Aiyo, Lan Xiang, you¡¯re here again ah!¡± In the study room, Shi Fengju could hear Zhang Huan¡¯s voice sounding from outside, and he frowned. Again and again!


    ¡°Brother Zhang Huan, is the young master inside? I¡¯m here to pass a message from my Missy. Can Zhang Huan please inform the young master!¡± Lan Xiang smiled.


    ¡°Oh, then please wait a while,¡± Zhang Huan gave a few nces at Lan Xiang, and his heart had the same thought as his master. Miss Gu had be more clingy than she used to before, and in just a day, she had already sent her servant over so many times. Seriously, she was still in her mourning period...


    ¡°Sir, Miss Gu¡¯s servant Lan Xiang hase to pass a message. Should I let her in?¡± Zhang Huan said bluntly.


    ¡°Just say that I don¡¯t have the time. Tell her to say what she wants to you and leave if there¡¯s nothing else.¡± Without even looking up, Shi Fengju continued to flip through the book in his hand.


    Startled, Zhang Huan stood motionlessly.


    In the past, the young master wasn¡¯t like this. Just what had happened? Or did he not hear what was said?


    Zhang Huan felt the necessity to inform his master urately, and so he gave a cough before raising his voice slightly higher than before, ¡°Sir, Miss Gu¡¯s¡ª¡±


    ¡°Are you done?¡± Shi Fengju raised his head and red at him coldly. ¡°Get out now!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Zhang Huan shrunk his neck and left in fright.


    Lan Xiang was ced in a difficult position, and she was helpless. Without a choice, she returned unhappily, but she smiled as she reported to Gu Fangzi, ¡°The young master seems to be busy and has no time at the moment! Missy, why don¡¯t you try again tomorrow...¡±


    ¡°Very busy?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    Just when Lan Xiang thought that Gu Fangzi would give up, she was ordered to bring Gu Fangzi her coat. ¡°I¡¯ll go and take a look!¡±

 Chapter 78: A Surprisingly Powerful Comprehensive Ability

    <h4>Chapter 78: A Surprisingly Powerful Comprehensive Ability</h4>


    ¡°Missy!¡± Lan Xiang gasped in surprise and hurriedly tried to advise, ¡°The young master is busy, and he doesn¡¯t seem to be in a good mood. Nubi thinks that it would be best for Missy not to go.¡±


    ¡°When did you be my master who can tell me what to do?¡± Gu Fangzi snorted and went to take a dark green cloak by herself before ordering Lan Xiang to take antern. ¡°We¡¯re going now!¡±


    Lan Xiang¡¯s mouth felt bitter, but she followed.


    Arriving at the study room, Gu Fangzi eyed Zhang Huan to stop him from announcing their presence. As the two servants stood outside, Gu Fangzi slowly pushed the door open before walking in.


    Her movements were quiet, and Shi Fengju, who had his head lowered, did not notice her.


    She watched the man who was sitting right by therge purple sandalwood table as he wrote and read. His figure was graceful, but he had a grim look on his face. His nose and his thin lips all gave off a disposition that he belonged to a well-off and powerful family. The edge of Gu Fangzi¡¯s lips rose, and her heart was in bliss. This man was now her husband! He was now her man! This was the man whom she love and who will love her back! No one can steal him away from her.


    Gu Fangzi held her breath and kept away from the light as she walked gently to the back of Shi Fengju. She raised her arms and gently ced her hands on his shoulders. She smiled then sweetly.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s body stiffened, and his heart almost burst out from joy. He naturally assumed that it was Sang Wan who hade to send his supper.


    ¡°Why are you here? Haven¡¯t slept yet?¡± Shi Fengju shifted his lips and said gently.


    ¡°I miss you so much, so I came to see you!¡± Gu Fangzi was happier than ever and said as sweetly as she could. She just knew that her Big Cousin would not ignore her! She was his most beloved woman!


    That familiar yet unfamiliar voice was like cold water to Shi Fengju¡¯s ears. The joy in his heart felt was quickly dampened, and how he wished he could be angry at this moment.


    He quickly jolted himself up as he retreated a few steps before looking in askance at Gu Fangzi, ¡°Why¡¯re you here?¡±


    ¡°If not me, who else will be here?¡± Gu Fangzi was also startled, and her heart was in turmoil. ¡°Who did Big Cousin think it was, Sang Wan?¡±


    ¡°Her name is not for you to call! Do I have to remind you of your position?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes darkened.


    Gu Fangzi was taken aback, and her mouth felt extremely dry. She licked her lips moist before saying, ¡°But, but there isn¡¯t any outsiders in here. Haven¡¯t I always called her that before? Why can¡¯t I anymore?¡±


    That was before. Shi Fengju thought of the sufferings Sang Wan had to go through, and they were also partially his fault! She was his first wife ah! Thinking about it pained him, and he said coldly, ¡°She is my official wife, and you¡¯re a concubine now. There¡¯s a line that sets a wife and concubine apart. Fangzi, I hope you¡¯ll remember that!¡±


    ¡°Why!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes reddened, ¡°You weren¡¯t like this in the past! You¡ª¡±


    ¡°But you were the one who said that as long as you can stay in the Shi household, you¡¯d even be willing to be a concubine, isn¡¯t that right?¡± Shi Fengju found himself not being able to say the remaining words ¡°and stay by my side.¡±


    Gu Fangzi was rendered speechless all of a sudden, and she gazed nkly at Shi Fengju.


    ¡°I, I understand, I understand!¡± Gu Fangzi took arge step forward and wrapped her arm tightly around his arm. ¡°I know you¡¯re doing this for my own good, so that I won¡¯t get caught by others if my tongue happens to slip, isn¡¯t that right? Big Cousin, I understand, I¡¯ll pay more attention to it!¡±


    She actually understood it that way!


    Shi Fengju was not in the mood to correct her, and he nodded, ¡°Just remember your position. Know what you can and cannot do!¡±


    ¡°I understand!¡± Gu Fangzi gently snuggled into his arm. ¡°Big Cousin, only you will think for my sake. Today in the small garden, it was really my fault! I shouldn¡¯t have acted that way and caused Big Cousin to lose face! That won¡¯t happen again in the future, it won¡¯t happen again!¡±


    Seeing that Shi Fengju remained quiet, Gu Fangzi tested the waters. ¡°But I really didn¡¯t mean to do it, if not¡ª if not for Sister who went over the line, I wouldn¡¯t have spoken so irresponsibly.¡±


    ¡°Oh? How did she go over the line?¡± Shi Fengju remained collected as he asked coldly.


    Gu Fangzi then answered pitifully, ¡°She knows that Nanny Li has a prejudice against me and deliberately had Nanny Li embarrass me.¡± As she was saying that, she added vinegar and oil to her speech, narrating how Nanny Li treated her with disrespect and cynicism.


    However, Gu Fangzi did not know that when Shi Fengju arrived at the small garden, all he heard was thest words she said, and he was oblivious to the entire situation. And because her words attracted his attention, he went to ask Zhide as well as Liu Ya after the incident when he had the chance. After learning of the situation, he was so much irked that he wished he could send Gu Fangzi away immediately.


    ¡°But I¡¯m fine with that since Nanny Li¡¯s already at such an age, and she was your nanny. I¡¯ve never argued with her in the past, even more so now!¡± Gu Fangzi went on, ¡°But, but when I asked them where my clothes, jewelry, and furnishing in Peony Park went, she evaded my question and said that I shouldn¡¯t inquire about things that do not belong to me! But those things, regardless of whether they¡¯re worthless or not, were all gifted to me by Big Cousin and Aunt! Why did she confiscate them without telling me! I was afraid that Aunt might get angry, so I didn¡¯t dare to tell her. But Big Cousin, you can help me out ah! Otherwise, in the future, she might bully me even more!¡±


    ¡°Did she really say that to you?¡± Shi Fengju asked inly, but the fist on his other arm tightened.


    ¡°Big Cousin, if you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Lan Xiang. She was also present! Or if Big Cousin would like, you cane and take a look at Peony Park!¡± Gu Fangzi said dismally.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then you can talk to my mother tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengju smiled coldly. ¡°I don¡¯t manage the internal affairs, so just let my mother make the decisions for you!¡±


    From today onwards, Shi Fengju firmly believed that Gu Fangzi¡¯s words could not be trusted! He was even more inclined to believe that Sang Wan was not that kind of person.


    If she wants to make a fuss, then let her do so then!


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go and ask Aunt to make the decision for me!¡± Gu Fangzi was secretly happy. Those things were worth thousands of gold, and they were her precious which she painstakingly managed to get hold of. Having her precious be confiscated in a day felt as if her flesh was being sliced out.


    ¡°Enough, you may go back now!¡± Shi Fengju drew back his arm. He was no longer in the mood to continue looking through the book that he was reading not too long ago, and he said, ¡°I¡¯ll be returning to the small garden to sleep, too.¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s joyous mood suddenly sank to the bottom of the ocean. She looked darkly at Shi Fengju, but his calm face showed not the slightest bit of wanting to give in.


    Gu Fangzi could not help but give in. The small garden was where he stayed, so him returning to the small garden to rest was just natural. But how could he go without looking after her feelings?


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart felt ufortable, but very soon, she came to a conclusion by herself. Big Cousin must still be mad at what happened during the day, and he must be reminding her to remember herself¡ªher position!


    Although he was cruel, he was doing it for my own sake ah! Gu Fangzi forced herself to ept that statement.


    ¡°Big Cousin, then can you send me back? Please?¡± Gu Fangzi said softly and gently as she leaned closer towards Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Lan Xiang!¡± Shi Fengju directly called out. Turning to her, he said, ¡°Fangzi, let me remind you once more. If you wish to live in this household peacefully, remember your position. Remember it well!¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin, don¡¯t worry, I will! I, I won¡¯t make you worry...¡± Gu Fangzi forcefully smiled. There seemed to be something amiss, but at this moment, she did not wish to think about it.


    On the second day, Gu Fangzi indeed proceeded toin to Wang Shi, and she said, ¡°Big Cousin said that I should seek Aunt and have you make the decision for me! Aunt, you can¡¯t not care about me ah!¡±


    ¡°To think something like that would happen!¡± Wang Shi frowned and instantly ordered, ¡°Go and call Ma¡¯am and Nanny Li over!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sat in front of Wang Shi with her eyes lowered, but the edge of her lips could not help but hook up a little.


    When Sang Wan and Nanny Li arrived, they immediately understood that they weren¡¯t called for something good because Gu Fangzi was around. The two looked at each other before going up to greet Wang Shi.


    After hearing what Wang Shi had to ask, Nanny Li patted her head and said apologetically, ¡°Oh so it¡¯s about this! Laonu must¡¯ve been careless! But,onu would like to ask Miss Gu something, from whom did Miss Gu hear that the things were taken away from Peony Park by Ma¡¯am?¡±


    ¡°Are you saying it isn¡¯t?¡± Gu Fangzi softly asked, ¡°The affairs within the household are now handled by Sister, and Sister was the one in charge of arranging the Peony Park. If it isn¡¯t Sister, then who else would have the courage to do so?¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am was busy the entire day, so that matter was handled byonu, so why not letonu be the one to speak about it then!¡± Nanny Li went on, ¡°Each and every item was ounted for by the servants in Peony Park before being packed and kept inside a warehouse with their presence! Not an item entered the small garden, and not one was touched by Ma¡¯am! In the future, they¡¯ll naturally be returned back to Miss Gu! Laonu thought Miss Gu had asked Peony Park¡¯s servants, so howe they didn¡¯t tell you? And from whom did Miss Gu hear those from? Or were they just baseless conclusions that Miss Gu jumped into?¡±


    Gu Fangzi did not expect things to turn out like this, and she was stunned for a moment. She somewhat could not believe those words because this was such a good opportunity for Sang Wan to mess with those items! Even if there were a few that were broken as they were being packed, no one would say anything about it.


    Moreover, her heart was in a mess during these two days when she returned, and the thought of asking the servants from Peony Park did not appear in her mind!


    Seeing her expression, Nanny Li understood what she was thinking and smirked secretly to herself before speaking with full confidence, ¡°Not a single the item in Peony Park is lost and not a single one is damaged. Everything is ced nicely in the warehouse for Miss Gu! If Miss Gu doesn¡¯t believe me, then please go and take a look yourself!¡±


    Those words openly branded Gu Fangzi as a petty person, and her face immediately turned warm and red. Keeping the anger within her, sheughed. ¡°Is that so? Then this is truly my fault! Because I didn¡¯t ask clearly, Nanny was almost misunderstood! But, if Nanny Li already checked and made sure all the goods were ounted for, then why hasn¡¯t the list been sent to me yet?¡±

 Chapter 79: Complaint

    <h4>Chapter 79: Comint</h4>


    Nanny Li smiled, ¡°Did Miss Gu forget the rules of the household? That list will have to be handed to an external third party to double check and make a copy, so it won¡¯t be returned so quickly! Don¡¯t worry Miss Gu, when the list arrives,onu will immediately have someone send the list to Miss Gu!¡±


    Gu Fangzi held her anger back. She was speechless as her face was red and pale. I¡¯ve been back for quite some time now these days, so how could I know that your efficiency would be this low? Much time has passed by already, and the list still hasn¡¯t returned!


    ¡°Does Miss Gu still have any more inquiries she might like to ask?¡± Seeing that she was speechless, Nanny Li asked savagely.


    ¡°No more!¡± Gu Fangzi could only return a smile. ¡°So it turns out to be a misunderstanding! Then it¡¯s my fault. My mood¡¯s been quite flustered these few days, making my memory quite disorderly and causingckposure in the way I do things. Nanny, I hope you won¡¯t fuss over it! Because of Fangzi, Aunt had to worry about nothing again!¡±


    After hearing the matter, Wang Shi was actually somewhat dissatisfied, but seeing Gu Fangzi apologize remorsefully, her heart melted and she smiled. ¡°It¡¯s good enough that the misunderstanding has been resolved! I know you¡¯ve been in a poor mood these few days, so you might not be in the right frame of mind to make a judgment. How can I me you? No one will me you!¡±


    Nanny Li and Sang Wan immediately concurred.


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Mother is right, but why has Younger Sister be so polite after bing part of the family?¡±


    ¡°Ah, after hearing Sister say so, my heart feels more at ease!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was secretly filled with hate, but her face showed a sweet smile.


    Seeing the two in harmony, Wang Shi was extremely happy, and she urged Gu Fangzi, ¡°In the future, if you have anything else you need, you can go find Sang Wan. Sang Wan does things very meticulously, so she will surely not make any mistakes!¡±


    Sang Wan quickly smiled humbly before speaking about the gifts Shi Fengju had brought back and how she had distributed them. She then smiled at Gu Fangzi. ¡°Cosmetics and satins aren¡¯t of use to Younger Sister as of now, so I¡¯ve picked out a few pieces of jewelry, ornaments, and disy decorations, and I will have someone ce them in the warehouse! In a few days, I¡¯ll also have the list of Younger Sister¡¯s current property delivered together with them. How about it?¡±


    How about it? Of course that isn¡¯t good! Gu Fangzi thought in her heart, Who knows what worthless trash you¡¯ve given me when I cannot even see any of those items? But at this moment, she did not dare to say it so bluntly, and she could only left to say that all was good.


    Sang Wan then sat for a while longer before smiling to take her leave. Gu Fangzi was also urged by Wang Shi to return to Peony Park to resume her mourning. Gu Fangzi felt extremely annoyed but could not refuse, so she had to leave.


    ¡°She really has no shame to evenin to Missy about such a small matter! Really, does she think that everyone¡¯s just as ignorant and shallow as her to crave for her stuff!¡± While heading back to the small garden, Nanny Li spoke vehemently to Sang Wan before adding, ¡°Saying that those were hers is already being in her favor! Just what isn¡¯t tangible! Seriously, to think she¡¯d even make a fuss out of it!¡±


    Sang Wan found it humorous. Deep down, she knew that that person was now also a part of the family, and Shi family property also belonged to her! If Shi family had no objection, then who gives!


    ¡°Forget about it, Nanny. Just keep a closer eye on Peony Park in the future. Don¡¯t let anything as trivial as this get brought up in front of Mother-inw, or else she¡¯ll surely get annoyed!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am,onu understands!¡± Nanny Li could not help but sigh, ¡°Truly, only Ma¡¯am cares a lot for Missy and Young Master! But you ah, there¡¯s something slightly bad about you. You don¡¯t make your intentions known, so it¡¯s really difficult for others to follow! Not following is one thing, but taking advantage of others really does them no justice!¡±


    When she said her words, Sang Wan, Liu Ya, and the rest of the servants could not help butugh.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t like what Nanny said! Isn¡¯t Nanny all-knowing! With Nanny, everything will be fine!¡± Sang Wanughed.


    While the master and the servants talked, a young girl in a beautiful flowery dress with her hair down by her temples came towards them before greeting Sang Wan with a smile. ¡°Sister-inw!¡±


    ¡°Third Sister!¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled and return the greeting. ¡°My guess is that Third Sister¡¯s heading to the flower garden to take a stroll?¡±


    ¡°En, I¡¯m going to check if the flowers of the sweet osmanthus by Water Pavilion has bloomed!¡± Shi Lian smiled gleefully and initiated, ¡°Would Sister-inw like toe along?¡±


    Nanny Li saw that the weather was quite good and she urged, ¡°Why don¡¯t Ma¡¯am go along with Third Young Miss? The osmanthus here is of a rare species, and you wouldn¡¯t find any in Qingzhou like therge ones we have here by Water Pavilion! In the past, Missy had always loved bottled flowers. If the flowers have bloomed, why not pick a few and ce them in a bottle before gifting it to Missy?¡±


    Since Nanny Li had already said so, Sang Wan could not refuse, and she instructed Nanny Li to return to the small garden first while she brought along Liu Ya and two other servants to follow Shi Lian. They chatted happily as they headed to Water Pavilion.


    ¡°Oh yes, thank you Sister-inw for sending the gifts to me. I like them very much!¡± Shi Lian waved the fan which was embroidered with a hibiscus and a kingfisher as she grinned.


    ¡°Those were what your Big Brother brought back. I ah, was only just doing others a favor at little cost! If you want to give thanks, give it to your Big Brother!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Shi Lian smiled cheekily at her. ¡°Aren¡¯t those the same!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback, but she smiled without a word.


    Shi Lian then sighed, ¡°I think Big Brother really treats Sister-inw really well! In the past, Big Brother rarelyes back early! But now that Sister-inw is here, he¡¯s changed.¡±


    Sang Wan remained silent. If things were really as you think, that would have been great!


    ¡°Maybe the business isn¡¯t as busy as it used to be?¡± Sang Wan asked, but Shi Lian shook her head as she smiled. She took a glimpse of all four directions before whispering to Sang Wan, ¡°Sister-inw doesn¡¯t actually have to acknowledge Cousin Gu. Just wait and see, Big Brother will surely be able to see her true face sooner orter and understand who¡¯s a pearl and who¡¯s a fisheye bead. Even though it is indeed our family¡¯s wrong that Cousin Gu has married in, she still has to observe three years of mourning! Sister-inw, three years!¡±


    Meaning, she would have to make full use of those three years!


    Sang Wan rarely heard a member of Shi family speak as such to her, and she could not help but feel a gust of warmth in her heart. She stopped in her spot and measured Shi Lian strangely with her eyes before smiling.


    Before Sang Wan could speak, Shi Lian initiated, ¡°Sister-inw must be finding my statement strange! After all, in the eyes of everyone else, I¡¯m always quiet, like a mouthless gourd that¡¯s not willing to speak! Those kinds of judgmental words are something I¡¯ve never spoken to others before!¡±


    Having what she was thinking in her mind be pointed out by Shi Lian, Sang Wan was surprised. Never had she expected Shi Lian to be so talkative. Not just that, talkative, but also saying things more than what she should.


    ¡°I won¡¯t hide it from Third Sister, but my heart truly is puzzled!¡± Since she had already said so, Sang Wanughed honestly.


    Shi Lian nced at her and smiled. ¡°Perhaps, this is may be the fate between Sister-inw and me! Since Sister-inw is so approachable and easy to talk with, I believe in Sister-inw, and I am willing to speak about anything to you. Sister-inw, you won¡¯t find me annoying, right?¡±


    ¡°Why would I! I can¡¯t wish for more!¡± Sang Wan could not help but smile. Shi Lian went silent for a moment. She seemed to be a person who thinks before she speaks. She was definitely a person worthy tomunicate with and put her trust in. She was unlike Gu Fangzi whose words always held a different meaning to it, making her difficult to guard against!


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good! Since Sister-inw says so, I¡¯lle to visit the small garden often to rant. I hope that won¡¯t bother Sister-inw!¡± Shi Lian smiled when she opened her eyes once again.


    ¡°Ho, then I can¡¯t wait!¡± Sang Wan said, and the two smiled as they gazed at each other.


    ¡°Oh, Sister and Third Cousin, what¡¯re the two of you talking about that¡¯s making you so happy! Say it for me to listen to!¡± A fictitious voice traveled from a distance. Needless to say, that voice was from Gu Fangzi.


    The enemy has arrived! Or in other words, the spirit of the enemy still lingers!


    ¡°Why did you two stop talking? Am I that hated by others? Or is it because Sister still mes me for what happened just now?¡± Seeing that the two were no longer talking anymore, Gu Fangziughed awkwardly.


    ¡°Sister, you¡¯re thinking too much!¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°That was all just a misunderstanding. Since it¡¯s been solved, it¡¯s all fine. If I¡¯m still mad at that, then the days ahead will surely be difficult to live through!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah, Cousin,¡± Shi Lian smiled from the side. ¡°Even though I don¡¯t know what happened, a misunderstanding is just a misunderstanding. I¡¯m sure Sister-inw will not keep it to heart!¡±


    ¡°Really? Then that¡¯s good! It seems I¡¯m really thinking too much!¡± Gu Fangzi raised a brow. Her eyes looked at Shi Lian, and then Sang Wan, but she could only smile. ¡°Speaking of which, I really have to admit defeat! I can¡¯t win against Sister who¡¯s so diligent! Even the quiet Third Sister is so close with Sister! Sister, you¡¯ll have to teach me in the future, don¡¯t just keep it for yourself.¡±


    Sang Wan found her disgusting, but she smiled as she humbly spoke, ¡°Younger Sister, you¡¯re making it sound so mysterious! All I did was treat others with sincerity! I¡¯m sure even someone as clever as Younger Sister can understand, right?¡±


    ¡°Oh, so it seems! Younger Sister here finally understands!¡± Gu Fangziughed in ridicule as her heart chanted, Hypocrite!


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t care less about her, and she turned and smiled at Shi Lian. ¡°After walking for a while, I¡¯m actually feeling a little tired and thirsty. I¡¯ll be heading back now. Would Third Sister like toe along?¡±


    Before Shi Lian could agree, she was interrupted by Gu Fangzi coldly, ¡°Third Cousin, I happen to want to speak with you for a while. Do you maybe want toe with me first?¡±


    To everyone¡¯s surprise, Shi Lian justughed her off. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but would Cousin return first? If you would like to speak to me, I¡¯lle over to listen to you tomorrow when you¡¯re free. Today, I¡¯m also quite thirsty, so I¡¯ll follow Sister-inw!¡± With that, she tugged Sang Wan¡¯s arm and smiled. ¡°Sister-inw, let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Okay! We shall leave now then, Younger Sister!¡± Sang Wan smiled and left with Shi Lian.


    Don¡¯t you always like toin? Then why notin again? Sang Wan secretly sneered.


    Gu Fangzi nibbled her lips irritably as she watched their figures became distant. After a while, she took in a deep breath before calming down.


    ¡°Only a person intoxicated by ambition will follow them!¡± Lan Xiang gently sighed before going up to Gu Fangzi. ¡°Missy, let¡¯s not talk with them. Let¡¯s go back now!¡±


    Surprisingly, Gu Fangzi did not throw a tantrum. She calmly stopped her before turning to ask, ¡°Lan Xiang, tell me truthfully. Am I being a little too anxious these few days?¡±


    ¡°Missy...¡± Lan Xiang was startled. The serious Gu Fangzi made her somewhat at a loss for words.


    ¡°Just tell me.¡± Gu Fangzi saw her hesitant look and knew what was going on in her mind. Her heart felt dejected for a moment, but she quickly cheered herself up and asked, ¡°Tell me the truth, I won¡¯t reprimand you!¡±

 Chapter 80: Shi Family’s Eldest Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 80: Shi Family¡¯s Eldest Daughter</h4>


    Lan Xiang glimpsed at her timidly before choosing her words carefully. ¡°Perhaps, perhaps Missy has been in a poor mood these few days¡ª¡±


    ¡°Then it¡¯s a yes, isn¡¯t that so?¡± Gu Fangzi cut her off.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Lan Xiang sighed and nodded, ¡°I won¡¯t speak for anything else, but Missy shouldn¡¯t provoke the young master and make him unhappy. Nubi has observed that in these two days, the young master seems to have changed quite a lot. Missy will have to let go of your fixation and loosen a little of your attitude, lest¡ª¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Gu Fangzi roared. Her face had turned pale. She was standing right beneath the sunshine, but her entire body felt extremely cold.


    Even without Lan Xiang telling her, her memories were enough to make her realize her mistake.


    To deal with men, a woman must be erratic and act flirty to arouse sexual appeal. But sometimes, giving in is necessary because not just women but also men need to be coaxed.


    During the days she was not around, Big Cousin must have been fallen prey to Sang Wan that sly vixen!


    Gu Fangzi was secretly pissed! To think he¡¯d neglect her!


    ¡°Your loyalty to me is extremely clear in my heart. If not for your reminder, I¡¯m afraid I might have continued to remain in a daze! I¡¯ll properly reward you in the future!¡± Gu Fangzi turned before speaking gently to Lan Xiang.


    ¡°Missy, nubi¡¯s life is linked to yours. Nubi being loyal to Missy is something that¡¯s ought to be!¡± Lan Xiang quickly smiled to express her thought.


    Missy finally woke up. As long as Missy doesn¡¯t have nubi go and invite Young Master over, nubi is willing to do anything!


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you think that way!¡± Gu Fangziughed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll never treat you badly, even in the future! Let¡¯s go back to Peony Park!¡±


    They wanted her to be filial, then so be it. They wanted her to remember her position clearly, then she would remember it to heart. If someone irks her, then she would just be more considerate towards them! How hard could it be?


    When he sees her good side, his feelings for her would naturally change.


    For two to three consecutive days, other than greeting Wang Shi early in the morning, she diligently remained in Peony Park to mourn for her father. She also did not go and bother Shi Fengju, except for the asional concerns she had for her big cousin and aunt when she greeted Wang Shi.


    Shi Fengju just thought that she had finally understood her position, and so he asked for nothing more.


    But one day, Gu Fangzi imed to have dreamt about her father the night before, so she would like to visit Guangling Temple and ask a master to chant scriptures for her.


    That was all from an umtion of virtues, thus Wang Shi sure did not stop her from going. Instead, she praised her with a few words before instructing Sang Wan to arrange for a carriage and send someone to apany Gu Fangzi as she went to the temple.


    Gu Fangzi politely thanked Sang Wan and was not fussy about the arrangements made by Sang Wan. On the next morning, Gu Fangzi left and was expected to return home three dayster.


    The Mid-Autumn Festival wasing soon. Sang Wan and a few other managementdies were busily preparing a banquet for Shi family¡¯s rtives and friends. Seeing that Gu Fangzi had suddenly quietened down and left Shi household for three days, the situation was, in any case, a good thing for Sang Wan.


    And just two days before the Mid-Autumn Festival, two guests suddenly arrived at Shi household.


    They could not really be ssified as guests because they were Shi household¡¯s eldest daughter and Shi Fengju¡¯s older sister, Shi Yumei, and her husband Ren Zhixian.


    At this day during noon, the two brought along Cui Zhu, Ren Zhixian¡¯s concubine as well as Shi Yumei¡¯s servant, into Shi household.


    This Shi household¡¯s eldest daughter was rather simr to her mother. Overall, she had far exceeded her mother. She was just as foolish as her mother, but she was even more arrogant than her. Once she considered herself correct, no one could say otherwise!


    Two people of such disposition mixing well with each other would have been tough, but in this case, the eldest daughter was extremely spoiled by her mother to the point where there would be wind or rain whenever she wanted it. Really, no one would dare to say otherwise!


    The moment they arrived, the servant watching the gate hurriedly went over to greet the two, ¡°Sir and Eldest Miss, you¡¯ve arrived!¡±


    Shi Yumei puckered and she joked, ¡°What? Is there a problem with me returning to my own home? Seeing your startled face, it¡¯s almost like your eyes are about to fall off! Monkey, why are you still standing here? Go and call someone to guide us! I want to see my mother!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! Eldest Miss, this way!¡± The servant nodded and personally brought the three to the second gate. Seeing them, the servant at the second gate nodded and smiled before guiding them in as a young servant dashed ahead of them to inform Wang Shi of their arrival.


    With the eldest daughter¡¯s return to her own parental home, no one would dare to let her wait unless they wished to court death, so a servant went in to report her arrival.


    Hearing the news, Wang Shi was startled and she frowned. ¡°Are you sure? Lass, you aren¡¯t speaking nonsense right? Why would she arrive without informing me beforehand?¡±


    Wang Shi could not believe what she just heard, and she ordered Nanny Jiang to send another servant to check the second gate.


    Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian were already heading to where Wang Shi was, and Concubine Cui Zhu followed closely behind with her head held low.


    Ren Zhixian watched as the servant who led the way kept conversing with Shi Yumei, while Shi Yumei keptughing and joking without any cares for her man, and his face turned a little gloomy. He slowed down his pace and cleared his throat before turning to ask Cui Zhu gently with a smile, ¡°Did the two-day journey tire you out?¡±


    Shi Yumei heard him and stood in her tracks. She turned and red at Cui Zhu, and she was about to scold her a few words when she found out that her husband¡¯s eyes were no longer upon Cui Zhu. His eyes were now gazing towards a distant direction, and his face was showing nothing but admiration and amazement.


    Damn b*stard! Shi Yumei could not help but scold him in her heart. She walked up to Ren Zhixian and looked over at the direction he was gazing at. All she saw were servants gathering around an elegant and graceful woman who was heading towards the direction away from them. That woman was wearing a tangerine orange top with red date palm flowers embroidered on it, matching well with her outer coat and her yellow daisy pleated skirt. Her smooth ck hair was tied beautifully, and the side of her hair was hanging loosely by her temples, exposing her pearl earrings which joggled under the sun.


    That woman was extremely elegant and graceful, and her disposition was outstanding. Just by looking at her back, they could not help but admire and not look away from her. Clearly, her looks were irresistible.


    A beauty ah! A real beauty! Ren Zhixian was so engrossed that his heart could not help but think that the elegant and noble woman must be of a schrly background. His mind could not help but sh the poem called ¡°Reading Apanied by a Beauty at Night.¡± He found it a pity that her hair wasbed and tied up. Still, when he thought about it, which other man was as knowledgeable as him!


    ¡°Dear, we should get going now! Let¡¯s not have Mother wait anxiously for us!¡± Shi Yumei nced fiercely at him. But who would have thought that Ren Zhixian would remain motionless and take no notice of her? Shi Yumei angrily red at the figure that had already left before deliberately shouting into Ren Zhixian¡¯s ear.


    Because he was unprepared, Ren Zhixian was startled, and he covered his ear before frowning, ¡°What are you doing!¡±


    Undisciplined! Truly undisciplined! How can there be such an undisciplined woman beneath the heavens! Comparing the two, Ren Zhixian considered the woman whom he saw just now much better than the one now in front of him. ring at Shi Yumei, his eyes showed some disgust.


    Shi Yumei was furious, but she refused to quarrel with her husband in front of such a crowd, let along hear others say that her husband was unfaithful. And so, she smiled coldly. ¡°I was just reminding you! We should get going now, or Mother will be waiting too long for us! You¡¯re Shi family¡¯s son-inw, so it isn¡¯t appropriate to keep her waiting, no?¡±


    Ren Zhixian groaned faintly and continued walking. Shi family? So what if this is Shi family? Don¡¯t think you¡¯re all so great just because of some stinky money! A family which stinks of money! A clean schr like me will want no stench from all of you!


    Watching as he publicly swept her reputation across the floor, Shi Yumei¡¯s face turned dark. She turned and saw that there was no change among the servants¡¯ expressions, and her heart felt relieved a little as she asked one of them, ¡°Who is the woman who was over there just now?¡±


    The servant obviously knew, but she did not dare to say it and acted foolish with a smile. ¡°To answer Eldest Miss, she was too far, soonu did not see her clearly. Laonu wonders whom Eldest Miss is referring to?¡±


    ¡°Who else can it be, the one who wearing clothes that are extremely striking! You really didn¡¯t see her clearly? I think you must be getting too old!¡± Shi Yumei grunted, and her gaze was as sharp as knife when she said the words ¡°getting too old.¡±


    The servant¡¯s face immediately changed. The eldest miss, even after marrying out, had never thought of herself as an outsider. Kicking a servant out would be as easy as opening her mouth!


    ¡°I think it may be Ma¡¯am...¡± The servant hurriedly changed her tone and thought for a while before adding, ¡°But she really was too far away foronu to see clearly!¡±


    ¡°Our family¡¯s Ma¡¯am?¡± Shi Yumei raised a brow. ¡°Thess who married in from the broken Sang family?¡± When Shi Fengju got married, there were matters in her house so she did not return. Thus, she had never seen Sang Wan before.


    Her reply to the servant made the expressions of the other few servants around change. They could onlyugh awkwardly at the answer, but they dared not say anything else.


    Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything wrong. If I¡¯m not afraid, why should all of you be? Hmph, if she has the capability, then have here forward and face me ah! Seriously! All she is doing is using our wealth on her, but really, she should first look whether she¡¯s worthy or not to even wear them!¡±


    Why does ass from a shabby family get to enjoy affluence while a rich and haughty daughter of a wealthy family has to lead a bitter life with her husband! Just from that thought, Shi Yumei became even angrier, and she scolded them a few more times before walking in the direction of the courtyard where her mother was.


    And the group just happened to run into Xiu Chun whom Nanny Jiang had sent. Xia Chun recognized Shi Yumei and knew that the eldest miss loved being gratified and respected. Her eyes glistened before doing a kowtow in front of Shi Yumei. ¡°It really is Eldest Miss! Mistress has been thinking of you!¡±


    ¡°Quickly, get up! Get up! You¡¯re my mother¡¯s senior servant, so you shouldn¡¯t be kneeling at me!¡± Shi Yumei was extremely happy, and she bent over to help Xiu Chun up before giving her a smile. ¡°Only my mother truly cares about me! to even have someonee to fetch me!¡±


    Of course, Xiu Chun was not foolish enough to exin that Nanny Jiang was the one who had sent her here to verify the news. Supported in the arm by Shi Yumei, Xiu Chun smiled while heading back with them. ¡°That¡¯s a given! Who doesn¡¯t know that the mistress cares the most for her eldest daughter!¡±

 Chapter 81: The Eldest Daughter’s Conscience

    <h4>Chapter 81: The Eldest Daughter¡¯s Conscience</h4>


    ¡°Nothing less from my mother!¡± Shi Yumei was impressed and happy. As she followed Xiuchun, she went on asking, ¡°How¡¯s my mother¡¯s condition? Is she doing well? Has she been doing anything?¡± and so on.


    Xiuchun briefly answered every question.


    Seeing that Xiuchun had not returned for some time, Wang Shi affirmed for herself that her eldest daughter had arrived. After a moment of pondering and doubting, Wang Shi soon rejoiced and she smiled. ¡°I didn¡¯t think that Yumei will be back. The festival will surely be lively! Good, good, that¡¯s really good!¡± After saying so, she asked Nanny Jiang whether she wore the appropriate clothes and whether a change was needed.


    Nanny Jiang could not help but smile. ¡°Eldest Miss is your daughter, and her husband is your younger generation. There¡¯s no need to be so stressed about it!¡±


    That is true. Wang Shi thought for a while and nodded her head as she ordered the servants to quickly prepare the pastries and tea.


    ¡°Mother! Mother! I¡¯m back to see you!¡± Upon arriving at the courtyard, Shi Yumei scurried and announced herself loudly without any cares for her husband¡¯s dissatisfied face.


    Ren Zhixian furrowed his brows tightly and cussed a few times about how disgracefully his wife behaved.


    Wang Shi could not help but blink a few times as she stood with a smile. ¡°This kid, this kid! Why are you still yelling at such an age!¡±


    ¡°Mother, mother!¡± Pushing the gold silk curtains embroidered with peony dark patterns aside, Shi Yumei rushed into Wang Shi¡¯s arms before gently hugging her. Rubbing her cheeks in Wang Shi¡¯s embrace, she smiled affectionately, ¡°Mother, I miss you so much!¡±


    ¡°Aiyo, you ah!¡± Wang Shi smiled and patted her back gently before smiling as she replied, ¡°You¡¯re already this old yet you still act like a child! Show me that you can sit still properly!¡±


    Shi Yumei chuckled and helped her mother to her chair, ¡°Mother, your daughter isn¡¯t able to remain by your side and be filial. For that, I¡¯ll kowtow to show my sincerity!¡± With that, she took a few steps back. Without waiting for the servants to bring a cushion, she immediately kneeled on the dark red brocade rug before gesturing to her husband with a wink.


    Having observed how disgraceful the interactions were between his wife and his mother-inw, Ren Zhixian was extremely dissatisfied. He stood silently at a side and ignored his wife¡¯s gesture.


    He thought to himself, Wasn¡¯t I forgotten just then? Oh, now that a kowtow is needed, I¡¯m suddenly remembered? Business people sure are disgusting! Your entire family truly is treacherous!


    Moreover, why should I kneel in front of a disgusting olddy when a clean schr like me has no need to do so in front of the country¡¯s leader?


    ¡°Aiya, there¡¯s no need for this, no need for this,¡± Wang Shi quickly had Xiu Chun help Shi Yumei up before she smiled and eximed, ¡°My child! Being filial isn¡¯t about this! Do get up quickly, we¡¯ll talk while seated! Quickly invite my son-inw to have a seat too! Please!¡±


    Furious, Shi Yumei could only remain speechless while in front of her mother, and she finished three kowtows before taking her seat with a smile. Even though Ren Zhixian could act as if he had not seen her re, Cui Zhu did not dare to, and she kowtowed before crawling up to stand obediently behind her.


    ¡°Your son-inw hase to visit!¡± Only then did Ren Zhixian step forward. He rolled up his sleeves before cupping his hands and bowing in front of Wang Shi.


    ¡°Son-inw, there¡¯s no need to be so polite. Quickly, have a seat, have a seat!¡± Wang Shi smiled and motioned.


    ¡°Understood, thank you, Mother-inw!¡± Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression was serious. In an orderly manner, he gave his thanks and rolled down his sleeves before straightening his clothes. Walking up to a seat, he lifted the end of his robe before taking a seat. Once seated, he gracefully hung it to a side.


    I¡¯ll have all of you see what being disciplined means and not with those foolish kowtows! Ren Zhixian sneered secretly to himself.


    Seeing how he went by the book and had a solemn face as he sat still motionlessly, the crowd could not help but nibble their lips for they dared not tough. Even Nanny Jiang watched him in disdain. Why¡¯s there such a huge difference between two schrly people!


    The lively atmosphere was immediately dampened by Ren Zhixian, and Wang Shi felt somewhat ufortable. She forced a smile and asked, ¡°Since you¡¯re both here, why not celebrate the festive season with everyone! It¡¯ll be a good opportunity for us family to get together!¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s parents had passed away several years ago. Being the only child, he was left with a small house for himself, Shi Yumei, and his concubine.


    ¡°Then I shall give my thanks to Mother-in-Law for your hospitality!¡± Ren Zhixian cupped his hands again and said with a grave face.


    ¡°Keke, you¡¯re being too polite! We¡¯re a family!¡± Wang Shi smiled and instructed Nanny Jiang to have the guest room prepared. ¡°Have you brought any luggage with you?¡± Wang Shi asked Shi Yumei.


    Shi Yumei then answered, ¡°Just a few sets of clothes. They¡¯re still left at the second gate¡¯s waiting area!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget to have someone bring that over!¡± Wang Shi added as she turned to Nanny Jiang, ¡°Check if there¡¯s anything they¡¯recking and have someone prepare them for my eldest daughter and my son-inw.¡±


    Nanny Jiang nodded and left to give instructions to the other servants.


    ¡°You must all be tired from the travel. Will some rest do you well? I¡¯ll have a servant give a call when dinner¡¯s ready?¡± Wang Shi suddenly thought of something and she gently knocked her head as she said, ¡°Oh, I must¡¯ve been too happy. How could I have forgotten about Sang Wan! Quickly, have someone invite Sang Wan and the thirdss over! Tell them that the eldest miss is back!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan is your younger brother¡¯s wife, and I¡¯m sure you haven¡¯t seen her yet. Now is a good time for you both to get to know each other!¡± Wang Shi smiled at her daughter with affection.


    Wang Shi had no idea that her daughter had already vaguely seen Sang Wan when she entered the household. With a snort, Shi Yumei said, ¡°Sang Wan? That littless from Sang family? It seems my mother likes her very much!¡±


    ¡°What littless, she¡¯s your sister-inw!¡± Wang Shi was displeased. ¡°Sang Wan has a gentle disposition, and she treats people very well! She¡¯s an extremely good person! You sister and sister-inw should forge a better rtionship with each other. Oh, also, if you need anything else in the future, just send someone to tell her!¡±


    In the past, Shi Yumei was never in favor of the arranged wedding, for she had always felt that Sang family attempting to take a huge advantage of Shi family. The moment she came home and found out about this, she felt even more displeased with Sang Wan. And so, she disdainfully spoke, ¡°Not a chance! I¡¯ll only tell my mother what I want!¡±


    ¡°You ah!¡± Wang Shi shook her head helplessly with a smile. ¡°In here, it¡¯s fine, but don¡¯t ever speak like that when you leave this ce. Sang Wan¡¯s the one managing the household now. If you were to say this and be heard by others, it won¡¯t be good!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s heart almost leaped out when she heard this. ¡°Mother, what did you say? The household is now being managed by her? Then what happened to Cousin Fangzi?¡± Gu Fangzi had always liked to tter her, so it was natural for her to be on Gu Fangzi¡¯s side.


    ¡°Stop with all the fuss!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s temper was almost exhausted. She patted her chest before ring at Shi Yumei. ¡°She is your younger brother¡¯s wife, so isn¡¯t it natural for her to be the one managing the household? Moreover, Gu Fangzi is still in her mourning period. Even if the mourning period has passed, our family can¡¯t just ignore the wife and let Fangzi be the one to manage the household ah!¡± Wang Shi softly sighed. That was one thing she felt the sorriest about for Gu Fangzi, but Fangzi herself vowed that she was willing to be a concubine and would be perfectly satisfied staying by her aunt and big cousin¡¯s side, so there was no way for her to refuse.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei was anxious and she blurted, ¡°Even so, you shouldn¡¯t have let that fall in the hands of a Sang member ah! You¡¯re still young, Mother, so why not hold the reins yourself? You¡¯ll have the management team and the servants to support you, and surely, none of them would dare to fool you. Sang family¡¯s so broken, and you¡¯re letting her manage the household? Hmph, who knows ah, maybe all our furniture might end up being moved to her parental house!¡±


    ¡°Hush with your nonsense!¡± Wang Shi frowned, ¡°Sang Wan isn¡¯t that kind of person! I¡¯ve also met her brother and his wife. They¡¯re also quite good people!¡± As she spoke, she scolded, ¡°You ah, why must your temper be like that! Remember this well, when in front of your brother and sister-inw, don¡¯t utter such nonsense! Do you hear me?¡±


    The more Shi Yumei listened, the angrier she got, and she yelled, ¡°Mother! You can just keep protecting her! A married daughter is like water that has been poured out ah! I¡¯m your biological daughter and the official eldest daughter of Shi family! But today, I have to act ording to an outsider after returning home!¡±


    ¡°You ah, why do your words keep bing more and more unreasonable! What ¡®outsider¡¯ ya? She is, in any case, your sister-inw!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes, I said wrong. I¡¯m the outsider! Other people are closer to you! Closer than your own daughter!¡± Shi Yumei fumed, ¡°You can keep doting her, and then by the time she empties the entire household, you¡¯ll know whether I¡¯m right or not!¡±


    ¡°You¡ª Just listen to what you¡¯re saying¡ª¡± Wang Shi almost choked from Shi Yumei¡¯s words and was rendered speechless.


    Seeing this, Nanny Jiang quickly tried to mediate the dispute. ¡°Mistress, Eldest Miss has always been outspoken and short tempered, but looking at it narrowly isn¡¯t going to do any good! Laonu may be overstepping her power, butonu thinks that it would be better for both to speak nicely and calmly; there¡¯s no need for any hurtful words! Shi Eldest Miss, Mistress cares for you the most and would asionally think about you! I¡¯m sure you know that yourself!¡±


    Wang Shi let out a sigh and eased her expression. Shi Yumei¡¯s heart also melted a little, and she went up to Wang Shi with a smile as she pulled her arm. ¡°I was at fault. I shouldn¡¯t have made Mother angry! Mother, let¡¯s not quarrel anymore! Let¡¯s not talk about this anymore, or else we may end up hurting our rtionship!¡±


    ¡°I can imagine that happening, so control that mouth of yours!¡± Wang Shi red at her and used a finger to nudge her forehead. Mother and daughter looked at each other and smiled.


    ¡°Mother, we shall return to our room and take a rest first!¡± Shi Yumei hurriedly smiled and said as she saw Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression bing more and more unbearable. She was extremely clear of her husband¡¯s temper, and when it exploded, he was sure to create a scene.


    ¡°En, go then! Ai, wait, wait!¡± After a short nod, Wang Shi hurriedly stopped them, ¡°I¡¯ve already sent someone to invite Sang Wan and the thirdss over. Why not leave after seeing them?¡±


    Then all the more reason not to wait! Shi Yumei grunted before pulling her husband to the exit while replying, ¡°I¡¯m tired, I don¡¯t wish to wait anymore. After all, we¡¯ll still be home for a while, so I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll bump into each other!¡±


    ¡°This child!¡± Wang Shi moved her lips, but she could only watch them leave.

 Chapter 82: Deliberately Causing Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 82: Deliberately Causing Trouble</h4>


    ¡°Mistress,¡± A whileter, Cui Zhu returned hurriedly before saying softly, ¡°Our young master and ma¡¯am have not had lunch yet. Our ma¡¯am said to have lunch sent over to them...¡±


    Wang Shi was sent in a daze, and she looked at the western clock which hung on the wall. Although angry, her heart ached and her brows rose as she eximed, ¡°Just what kind of life are they living!¡± Motioning to Cui Zhu that she may return, she quickly went to instruct a servant, ¡°Quickly, have the small kitchen make a few dishes that Yumei likes, and then send them over!¡±


    Not long after, Shi Lian arrived. Wang Shi was distressed over her own daughter, so she did not have the heart to give any attention to Shi Lian. With just a few words, she sent Shi Lian back. Shi Lian did not speak much and obediently withdrew.


    A brief moment after Shi Lian had left, Sang Wan arrived. Seeing only her mother-inw, she quickly went up to greet her and asked with a smile, ¡°Mother, wasn¡¯t I called because Big Sister has returned? But why do I not see her!¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Wang Shi smiled and replied, ¡°The trip here has tired her out, so she has already left to rest! Just carry on with what you¡¯re doing. Meeting her at night won¡¯t bete, too! Right, have the kitchen cook a few more dishes, and let¡¯s all have dinner together tonight. Also, for Fengju, send someone to tell him to return slightly earlier tonight!


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan smiled and answered before asking, ¡°I¡¯m not too sure what kind of dishes Big Sister and her husband would like to have. How should I go about instructing the kitchen?¡±


    Seeing that Sang Wan was being thoughtful to them, Wang Shi was extremely pleased and she smiled. ¡°The kitchen staff will know! It¡¯s enough to instruct them about tonight! Go then!¡±


    ¡°Understood. Then I shall take my leave!¡± Without saying or asking much, Sang Wan smiled and left.


    Although she had hurried over, she was not able to meet with Shi Yumei. If things were as they used to be, Sang Wan would surely take more notice of them. Since she had already been called over, Shi Yumei should still wait and see her before leaving to take a rest regardless of how tired she may be, no? But Sang Wan was sure that majority of the faulty upon her mother-inw.


    Her mother-inw was never sequential when doing things. On one side, she called for her to meet with her eldest daughter, while she sent her eldest daughter off to rest on the other. She believed that this was only possible if it were her mother-inw who did so.


    But Sang Wan would never have dreamed that Shi Yumei was deliberately making life difficult for her; thus, Sang Wan was wrong in her assumption!


    Without Nanny Li present to give any pointers since she had already left to send out festive gifts, Sang Wan did not put this matter to heart.


    ¡°Your people do not seem to wee us at all. I think that we should just stay for a night and leave tomorrow!¡± In the guest room, Ren Zhixian, who had not been deeply given respect and attention, grunted and said coldly to his wife.


    ¡°To?¡± Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°To where?¡± Even if there were a ce to go, you go by yourself! I won¡¯t leave with you!¡±


    ¡°You! Ridiculous!¡± Ren Zhixian coldly rolled up his sleeves, but the anger in his tone momentarily vanished.


    Not too long after, the dishes arrived. Shi Yumei gleefully picked up a pair of chopsticks and imed, ¡°Ya! Only my mother cares for me the most! All these dishes are my favorites!¡± After taking a bite, she praised, ¡°En, so delicious! It¡¯s been so long since Ist had wine-dipped chicken made this well!¡±


    Ren Zhixian gave a nce. There were only deep-fried prawns, eight treasure tofu, wine-dipped chicken, stir-fried eel, and arge bowl of piping hot minced beef stew sprinkled with coriander. All the dishes were his wife¡¯s favorites, but his favorite pork sausages, steamed fish, fresh bamboo shoots, and many more were not present among the dishes!


    His face turned sullen, and he was secretly annoyed.


    ¡°Oi, dear, aren¡¯t youing over to eat! Otherwise, the food will turn cold, and they won¡¯t be appetizing anymore!¡± Shi Yumei said as she raised her head to look at him.


    Ren Zhixian wanted to be defiant and not eat, but after smelling the aroma from the dishes, the hunger in his belly burned strongly. Itpletely overwhelmed the anger deep within him, and he could only keep a straight face as he went forward to eat.


    After giving the instructions to the kitchen staff, Sang Wan sent someone to inform Shi Fengju. Once she was done, she began thinking about the attire she should wear for this evening.


    Even though the eldest daughter and her husband were not outsiders, they were still guests. Mother-inw ced a huge importance on reputation, and Sang Wan did not dare neglect that. However, she felt that they weren¡¯t just any distant strangers and thus did not dress up too heavily, else that would deem them as outsiders. And so, she spared some thought on her attire.


    When Nanny Li returned, Sang Wan showed her the attire which she had picked¡ªan autumn-colored top embroidered with reddish-gold flower patterns to match thepel of the coat, together with a reddish-orange skirt with sixteen folds. Complementing those would be the reddish-gold jewelry as well as a sparrow headdress.


    ¡°This will be fine. The eldest miss isn¡¯t an outsider!¡± Nanny Li nodded with a smile.


    ¡°Then I shall go with this then!¡± Sang Wan was finally put at ease, and she quickly changed into it before washing her face and tidying her hair.


    After handling a few other affairs, Shi Fengju returned. When he saw Sang Wan, his eyes glistened and were unable to hide his admiration. Her appearance and disposition were already outstanding. Now wearing a touch of makeup, she would surely be irresistible to the eyes of others.


    The servants could not help but snicker when they saw their young master acting as such. Seeing him acting in such a way, Sang Wan could not help but feel a little embarrassed and a little annoyed because now was not the time for him to be admiring her appearance. But seeing that he was still in a daze, she asked with a forced smile, ¡°Big Sister and her husband have returned. Is the way I dress passable?¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course, ¡± Without thinking, Shi Fengju replied almost instantly before adding conveniently, ¡°Do you still have the mutton-fat jade hairpin? Wearing that will surely make you look even better!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback, but Liu Ya had already diligently rushed to retrieve the hairpin.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Sang Wan smiled. Since her husband had already said so, then she would just have to wear it.


    ¡°Young Master¡¯s eyes for appearance truly is good! This mutton-fat jade indeed fits Ma¡¯am perfectly!¡± Nanny Li praised from the side, and the other servants smiled to show that they agreed to it.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned a shade of red and she pouted, ¡°Nanny, you¡¯re making fun of me again! Quickly fetch a washbasin for Sir to wash his face, and aid him while he changes his attire. We have to hurry over soon!¡±


    And so, Nanny Li became busy serving Shi Fengju.


    Once Shi Fengju had finished changing his clothes, the couple left the small garden together. On their way, Shi Fengju inadvertently turned and made an eye gesture. Liu Ya and the other servants understood, and they distanced themselves from the couple who walked in front of them by slowing down their pace.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju leaned closer to Sang Wan and whispered softly, ¡°My eldest sister is very straightforward and speaks without thinking. If she does say anything she shouldn¡¯t... Please don¡¯t put them to heart...¡±


    Sang Wan was startled, and she gazed at him, but his eyes subconsciously dodged from her, and she understood: This marriage should never have happened, and the her now would have to y up to people of power and influence!


    ¡°I understand,¡± Sang Wan gave a faint smile as she replied, ¡°We¡¯re a family. Whatever Big Sister says, I won¡¯t keep them to heart.¡±


    ¡°Great! Let¡¯s go then!¡± Shi Fengju was no longer feeling worried, and he smiled.


    When the two arrived, Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian were already there.


    ¡°Second Brother, Second Brother! You¡¯re finally here!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and grabbed Shi Fengju¡¯s arm as she evaluated him, ¡°No different than before! Maybe just a little more mature!¡±


    ¡°Big Sis! Big brother-inw!¡± Shi Fengju greeted before chatting gleefully with his sister.


    To be frank, this sister of his truly cared for him very much and was very protective of him. When they were young, whoever dared to bully him, his sister would always be the first to stand up for him and protect him. It did not matter who was in the wrong, but whoever bullied her little brother would never leave unscathed! That was also because the rtionship between both siblings had always been good.


    ¡°I must say ah, in the past when you heard that I¡¯m back, you would havee to see me, but why were you sote today? Hmm? Or have you be distant from your Big Sis?¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s gaze slipped to Sang Wan. Seeing that her appearance, as well as her facial features, were great, she could not help but feel slightly sour in her heart.


    ¡°Big Sis, what are you saying? I¡¯ve only just returned from handling some business matters!¡± Shi Fengju smiled before adding, ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll feel distant with Big Sis! Every since young, Big Sis has always been the one who cared most for us brothers!¡±


    ¡°So you still have some conscience!¡± Shi Yumeiughed.


    ¡°Sang Wan,e, this is Big Sis and Big Brother-inw!¡± Shi Fengju said as he introduced Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian to Sang Wan.


    The moment Ren Zhixian had an eyeful of Sang Wan, his eyes were undoubtedly attracted to her. With just a gaze, he recalled the beauty whom he had seen when he entered the household, and he knew without asking that she was definitely the one.


    Reading makes a person graceful! But it¡¯s a pity that such a beauty is already married to a man like Shi Fengju who reeks with the pungent smell of money! Really, a flower ced among a pile of cow dung!


    Ren Zhixian could not help but let out a silent sigh in his heart, and his face showed a look of pity.


    ¡°Big Sis! Big Brother-inw!¡± Sang Wan immediately curtsied as she greeted.


    Shi Yumei first nced at her husband, and then at Sang Wan. She evaluated her before smiling, ¡°Isn¡¯t this my younger sister-inw from the Sang family? Beautiful indeed! But I must say that our Shi family sure is generous! Just look at the way Younger sister-inw is dressed. Keke, she¡¯s more stylish than a missy or a mistress from a well-to-do family in Qingzhou!¡±


    The smile on Sang Wan¡¯s face slightly stiffened, but she pretended as if she had not heard such a remark.


    Shi Yumei was not Mistress Zhuang. Although she had never seen her in her previous life, she knew that Shi Yumei was the daughter whom her mother-inw pampered the most and was also Shi Fengju¡¯s favorite sister.


    ¡°Younger sister-inw!¡± Ren Zhixian smiled politely at Sang Wan, and his eyes glistening brightly at her as he tried to seek out the same suffering that he had in her eyes for them to sympathize with each other.


    From the way he saw it, they should be on the same boat. They were both from a literary family, studied books before, and were rendered vulnerable after marrying to a house of riches and wealth.


    Unexpectedly, Ren Zhixian realized that Sang Wan seemed to not have taken much notice of him as she did not even give him a second nce. That made him disappointed! In an instant, he turned sullen as the woman whom he was attracted to might look above average, but she turned out to be just an embroidered pillowcase filled with grass!


    If Sang Wan were to know how twisted his views of her were, she would surely not know whether to cry or tough!


    ¡°Keke, Sis and Brother-inw, have a seat!¡± Shi Fengju coughed into his fist and gestured with a smile.


    Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian took a seat, and Shi Fengju helped Sang Wan to a seat before sitting right beside her. Wang Shi smiled at Sang Wan and was about to ask her how the preparations were for dinner when Shi Yumei interrupted, ¡°Yo? When did our Shi family begin neglecting the rules? How can a daughter-inw have a seat when the mother-inw is present? Is this how the Sang family have taught you! Or do literary families have a different set of rules?¡± With that, she turned and asked her husband, ¡°When mother-inw is present, I¡¯m sure even I observe proper rules, too, right?¡±

 Chapter 83: A Sullen Big Brother-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 83: A Sullen Big Brother-inw</h4>


    ¡°Duty must beplied to, and manners must not be ignored. Sister-inw¡¯s behavior is indeed inappropriate! Your husband ought to have taught you!¡± Ren Zhixian spoke in all seriousness. He became even more disappointed with Sang Wan, and he could not help but sigh to himself, It sure is difficult to find like-minded people under this sky!


    ¡°I apologize for my negligence!¡± Sang Wan quickly stood up.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju could not help but be angry, and he nced coldly at Ren Zhixian. He had never thought highly of his self-righteous and pedantic brother-inw. If he could act in such a way, then he shouldn¡¯t have sold off all his family¡¯s assets, as well as his wife¡¯s dowry, clean and then act as if that was meant to be. What made him even angrier was what happened to the four maidservants who followed his big sister when she was married. In less than a year, other than Cui Zhu, the other three whom he had done the deed with were all sold off when times were difficult. Presently, the remaining Cui Zhu had be his concubine!


    It was fine that a mistake was pointed out by his big sister, but there was no need for his irrelevantment! If he were truly a knowledgeable person, then he shouldn¡¯t be doing anything that would cause others to doubt him! Is Shi Fengju¡¯s wife someone whom he could speak lightly of?


    Shi Fengju grasped Sang Wan¡¯s arm and pulled her back to her seat. ¡°We¡¯re a family; there¡¯s no need for so many rules! When did Big Sis start paying so much attention to the little details!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. His words were understated, and his hand secretly pinched Sang Wan¡¯s arm as he tried to appease her.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Yumei ah, you¡¯re wrong about Sang Wan!¡± Wang Shi smiled as she continued, ¡°Your younger sister-inw knows the rules very well! I do slightly dislike that politeness of hers. We¡¯re a family, and we shouldn¡¯t be living with so much reservation among one another! Keke, just when she had finally made herself at ease in front of me, you just have to point that out! That¡¯ll surely make Sang Wan ill at ease! Sang Wan ah, your Big Sis has always been like this, but don¡¯t think about it too much! Keke, have a seat quickly! Oh, how did the dinner preparations go?¡±


    ¡°Nanny Li¡¯s observing over at the kitchen. I¡¯m sure dinner will be ready very soon!¡± Sang Wan quickly replied as she smiled at her mother-inw gratefully.


    ¡°Ah yes, that¡¯s right. I spoke without thinking. Sister-inw Sang Wan, please don¡¯t take it to heart! Keke, you truly are blessed to have my mother and my younger brother stand by you!¡± Seeing her mother and her brother speak for Sang Wan, her heart felt even more unhappy. But sensing her younger brother¡¯s annoyance, she stopped. She gave another nce before letting out augh, ¡°Howe I do not see Cousin Fangzi? Second Brother Shi Fengju, what is Cousin Fangzi doing? Why didn¡¯t shee and see me when I¡¯m back?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart tightened, and he looked at Sang Wang unintentionally. That fell on Shi Yumei¡¯s sight, and his face made her even more resentful. Well done, it hasn¡¯t been long since you have been married to my younger brother, and you are already controlling him to such a sight! At the thought of a son being born in the future, Shi Yumei trembled.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face remained calm, and her brows did not crease, but her heart secretly cried for help. Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze at her, as well as Shi Yumei¡¯s resentful expression, were all seen clearly by her. She could not help but wonder if there was anyone more unfortunate than her! Sir, your sister is asking you, but why did you have to look at me! What does your Fangzi have to do with me?


    ¡°Unexpectedly, she had to go to the temple yesterday. She¡¯ll be back by tomorrow! When she¡¯s back, she¡¯ll naturally go and see you.¡± Shi Fengju smiled a little unnaturally.


    ¡°I see! I knew that Fangzi¡¯s an excellent person and will never neglecting to see me!¡± Shi Yumei giggled. While on the topic, she rambled on about Fangzi¡¯s good with endless words of praise while asionally speaking about theirmon past.


    Being an elderly, Wang Shi had always liked reminiscing about the past. As for Sang Wan, she could only sit by the side and remain silent. As the conversation went between Wang Shi and Shi Yumei, their words sounded extremely ear-piercing in Shi Fengju¡¯s ears, and he did not want to continue listening. Atst, when he could endure no more, he interrupted the conversation by directing a question to Ren Zhixian with a smile, ¡°Oh, didn¡¯t Brother-inw Zhixian say you were going to Hangzhou to participate in an examination this year? Then why¡ª¡±


    He remembered that during the day of his wedding, his big sister could not attend, and she sent a servant to ry that she had to remain by her husband¡¯s side to serve him so as to let him focus on the examination that was going to be held this year.


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression changed before returning to his usual calm face again. He coughed a few times unnaturally before speaking, ¡°Erm, this is an unlucky year, and I happen to be unfit to travel... so it isn¡¯t worth to give a shot this year... The next one, I¡¯ll surely go for the next one!¡±


    Hearing Shi Fengju raise the question, Shi Yumei could not help but feel a gust of anger in her stomach. An unlucky year indeed! But it wasn¡¯t him but her! Putting aside the travel expense to Hangzhou which he spent on drinking with those ¡®schrs¡¯ in the brothel, he was firm in his mindset of not letting her return to her parental house to borrow money! However, when he said she wasn¡¯t allowed to, she was clear that it was not about the money, but the reason behind the borrowing of the money which she should not tell anyone! That shouldn¡¯t even be a problem because what her parental family had was money, and since her mother and her younger brother had always cared for her a lot, justing up with a few excuses would have solved their problems as easy as a pie! Then the problem came. He was so drunk that day that he fell into a ditch and sprained his foot which took more than a month to heal! When it was finally healed, the registration period for the examination had already ended!


    Shi Yumei felt sullen, and she was not in the mood to continue praising others. Clenching her fists, she smiled as she said, ¡°Yes ah, yes ah. The fortune teller said that my husband should not travel far this year, especially to the far southeast! It¡¯s a provincial examination that happens every three years anyway, so it won¡¯t run away. There¡¯ll still be many more chances toe; missing one doesn¡¯t mean anything! As long as he has a talent for studying, he¡¯s sure to pass by working hard again!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s very true! Although passing is important, one¡¯s life is even more so!¡± Wang Shi smiled.


    ¡°Keke! Then, Brother-inw, I shall once again wish you sess to top the examinations!¡± Shi Fengju raised a brow as he cupped his hands towards Ren Zhixian.


    ¡°Keke, many thanks to Brother Fengju! When that timees, I¡¯ll be sure to drink a few cups with you!¡± The awkwardness on Ren Zhixian¡¯s face was immediately swept away, and it was reced with a radiant smile as he cupped his hands at Shi Fengju. It was as if the official overseeing the examinations could easily be controlled in his palms.


    Shi Fengju sneered discreetly. If someone like him were able to pass, then the official truly is worthless!


    As they spoke, Nanny Li entered. After greeting with everyone, she announced that dinner was ready, and everyone followed her to the dining room.


    At that time, Shi Lian felt a little hesitant. As an unmarried woman, she was not supposed to eat at the same table as Big brother-inw, but the Shi family had never been concerned about it even in the past when the Shi rtives came over. But Shi Lian was well aware of Big brother-inw¡¯s personality, and she was afraid that he might have something to say to humiliate her without giving her a route to retreat. As such, she smiled, ¡°Mother, Second Brother, and Big Sister, my, my stomach hasn¡¯t been feeling well these few days, so...¡±


    Wang Shi had neither mistreated her daughter who was not hers, nor had she given her any preferential treatment. But since Shi Lian had always been quiet and had never tried to make herself liable before her, she spoke casually, ¡°You may leave then. Have the kitchen make light dishes. If you¡¯re still feeling unwell, tell Sang Wan to invite a doctor over to examine you!¡±


    ¡°Understood, thank you, Mother, for your care!¡± Shi Lian quickly bowed before fleeing.


    In the dining room, everyone was seated. Sang Wan remained standing as she busily instructed the servants to serve the food up on the table while she personally arranged the tableware neatly in front of Wang Shi before standing behind her and asking for a servant to bring a clean pair of chopsticks and a te to pick up food for her mother-inw.


    Since her big sister-inw had already mentioned the rules, then abiding by them would be best for her.


    Seeing so, Shi Yumei was secretly satisfied. Don¡¯t think I won¡¯t be able to deal with you just because you¡¯re the Ma¡¯am of the household now!


    Ren Zhixian looked at the spread of dishes on the table and could not help but frown because there was no dish that he liked, and even the fish was braised and not steamed!


    Ren Zhixian secretly swore, The Shi family are going overboard with their bullying!


    ¡°These dishes are too greasy! Eating too much of thesevish meals isn¡¯t good for the body! There should be some lite dishes to benefit the body!¡± Ren Zhixian spoke without holding back.


    His face was so dark that it appeared as if someone still owed him a few hundred silvers. It was simply impolite of him to have said that, and those words sounded even more unkind when they fell on the ears of others.


    The arrangements for tonight¡¯s dinner were made by Sang Wan, so she was ced in an embarrassing situation at this point, but she quickly smiled and replied, ¡°I do not know of Big Brother-inw¡¯s preferences, so Sang Wan seeks your forgiveness! I¡¯ll have the kitchen cook a few light ones immediately!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know your Big Brother-inw¡¯s preferences?¡± Shi Yumei seemingly smiled as sheughed, ¡°If you don¡¯t know, then you don¡¯t know. There¡¯s no need to sound so gant! Younger sister-inw, you¡¯re worrying too much! You just have to take good care of Second Brother Fengju. Others are not worth worrying about!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed all of a sudden. Clueless of what she should do, she stood motionless.


    ¡°Yumei! How can you say that!¡± Wang Shi frowned.


    Shi Fengju was also annoyed by those words, and he smiled faintly, ¡°Big Sister, unlike how Big Sister phrased it, Sang Wan only had good intentions! Nanny Li, have the kitchen make a te of stir-fried cabbage as well as a te of stir-fried radish. Do remember to tell them to add less seasoning and use less oil! Big Brother-inw, will that be fine? I remember that thest time when I went to your house, Big Brother-inw was especially fond of these two vegetables and said how good they were! I¡¯ve always remembered that Big Brother-inw has always liked to eat those!¡±


    ¡°Fengju¡¯s memory truly is good!¡± Ren Zhixian turned a little awkward.


    At that time when Shi Fengju came to visit, it was Ren Zhixian himself who deliberately asked the servants to make those tasteless vegetables. He was sure that someone who was born with a golden spoon would definitely find those dishes difficult to swallow. When that time came, he could take the opportunity to use his position as his brother-inw to educate him earnestly about being thrifty and simple. That would surely win over his respect admiration.


    He thought that to be so because he felt that the only thing that his family had over Shi family was being able to endure ¡®hardships.¡¯


    But who knew that Shi Fengju would not give him the opportunity to do so. He smoothly finished the meal and even used that against him today.


    The courtyard had a small kitchen with fresh ingredients always avable. The cooks were also experts, and they were cooking. Very swiftly, the two stir-fried vegetables were brought forward.


    ¡°Put them in front of my brother-inw. Okay, let us eat! Otherwise, the dishes will turn cold!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and gestured to everyone else. Seeing that his sister had something to add, he smiled and continued, ¡°Xiu Li, help my big sister pick up some shredded bamboo shoots and chicken with scallops. Big Sister, those are your favorites!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother, you remember!¡± Pleased, Shi Yumei smiled and began eating.

 Chapter 84: Big Sister and Big Brother-in-law Will Be Staying for Quite A While

    <h4>Chapter 84: Big Sister and Big Brother-inw Will Be Staying for Quite A While</h4>


    ¡°Mother, let Sang Wan take a seat. It¡¯s enough to have Xiu Chun serve us! We don¡¯t fuss about this on days when guests or rtivese over, but why are there so many rules when Big Sister and Big Brother-inw are not even outsiders?¡± Shi Fengju picked up a braisedmb meat as he spoke without hesitation.


    When Wang Shi heard him so, she could not help but turn around. Only then did she see Sang Wan serving her from behind! ¡°Aiya!¡± Shocked, she smiled and gestured, ¡°Child, you¡¯re too simple-minded! Your Big Sister only said that mindlessly, and you took it so seriously! Come, take a seat! Quickly!¡±


    ¡°Then, thank you, Mother!¡± Sang Wan cast a nce at Shi Yumei. Seeing that she was remaining silent, Sang Wan smiled and curtsied before passing the te and chopsticks to Xiu Chun. She then dragged herself to sit beside Shi Fengju. Of course, there was no way for Shi Yumei to add anything! If she were to do so, then wouldn¡¯t it mean that her position as the eldest daughter of Shi family to be more distantpared to friends and rtives?


    Moreover, the table was packed with many delicious dishes that she liked. Obviously, those had caught more of her attention than bickering with her younger brother¡¯s wife. When her mood was great, she was toozy to fuss about others.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s character was very lively, and she had lots of words to speak with her own mother and brother. The entire meal was filled withughter and happiness. Shi Fengju also especially had someone bring over a pot of heavy chrysanthemum wine that was three years old toplement the meal. Its amber color in the jade cup, as well as its fragrance, made Shi Yumei ted, and they ate the entire meal joyously.


    Because of his statement about healthy living and Shi Fengju¡¯s few words, only Ren Zhixian could not bear to say otherwise, and he could only eat the vegetables that were prepared especially for him. Looking at the table filled entirely with delicious dishes as their fragrance slowly traveled into his nose, all he could do was swallow a few mouthfuls of saliva.


    However, although the vegetables were stir-fried, the amount of oil used was just about right and the cook was also talented, which made the vegetables a hundred times tastier than the ones at home and with a hint of freshness in them. But little did he know that the kitchen staff had added soup stock and dense seafood mushroom sauce when cooking up his dishes!


    The tastier the food, the more attracted he was to the other dishes on the table like a hungry locust, and his eyes subconsciously took another look at them.


    After the meal, everyone went to the parlor to chat cozily. It had been almost a year since Wang Shi and Shi Fengju saw Shi Yumei; the mother, the daughter, and the son chatted gleefully. As their conversation got more intense, Ren Zhixian cleared his throat with a cough before stubbornly saying that he¡¯d like to return to rest.


    Indeed, they should return to rest. Wang Shi was thoughtful of the long journey they had to take to arrive here, and she quickly had the people see them off. Shi Fengju faintly cast a nce at Ren Zhixian who sat formally, and there was a slight unhappiness in his heart. This person must be deliberately trying to dampen the mood! Really, just what is going on in that mind of his!


    ¡°Mother, then we¡¯lle over to apany you tomorrow!¡± Shi Yumei smiled before getting up.


    ¡°Cough, cough!¡± After hearing those words, Ren Zhixian coughed even more heavily this time as he gestured to Shi Yumei with his eyes.


    Shi Fengju was taken aback as he watched quietly from the side.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s expression had turned lukewarm for a moment before it quickly regained its liveliness as she smiled gleefully at Wang Shi. ¡°Mother, I want to sleep together with you tonight! I want to stay with you!¡±


    ¡°That¡ª¡± Wang Shi nced at Ren Zhixian in question, but his gaze seemed to have wandered far, as if he had not noticed that nce.


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem, it¡¯s no problem! Mother, just let him go! I¡¯ll stay to apany you!¡± Shi Yumei smiled.


    ¡°Alright, alright! Mother can¡¯t ask for more!¡± Wan Shi chuckled, and she patted the back of her palm intimately.


    ¡°Cui Zhu, let¡¯s go!¡± Ren Zhixian raised his head and called Cui Zhu.


    Wang Shi¡¯s expression changed, while Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze became as sharp as a cold dagger. How dare he do that? To call his concubine like an emperor right in front of his wife¡¯s family on the first day of the visit! What¡¯s more, that¡¯s his wife¡¯s only servant who remained to serve his wife!


    Just when Shi Fengju was about to make ament, he heard his sister yell at Cui Zhu, ¡°What¡¯re you standing there for? Go on!¡± She angrily shut her mouth as she watched Ren Zhixian leave with Cui Zhu.


    ¡°Not that I should be saying this, but that¡ª¡± Wang Shi was annoyed.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei spoke flightily, ¡°Boys mah, aren¡¯t they all like that! It¡¯s just ass, there¡¯s nothing to worry about!¡±


    ¡°You ah!¡± Since her daughter had already said so, what can a mother do?


    ¡°Then we shall take our leave too!¡± Shi Fengju tucked his anger deep into his heart, and he left with Sang Wan. As Shi Yumei¡¯s younger brother, he was in no ce to intervene with his sister¡¯s matters.


    There was only silence as they were on their way back. Shi Fengju¡¯s expression remained unhappy, and Sang Wan remained quiet. However, in her heart, she very much agreed with Shi Yumei¡¯s words. Boys, don¡¯t they all behave that way!


    As she watched Shi Fengju¡¯s unhappy expression, she could not help but think to herself, What¡¯s there for you to be angry at? Aren¡¯t you also a man yourself, the things you do may not be any better than your brother-inw. It¡¯s unfortunate that I, Sang Wan, do not have a firm family to fall back on like your sister does!


    ¡°I did not expect my big brother-inw to cross over the line! Big sister too, how can she endure such treatment!¡± Upon returning to the small garden, Shi Fengju sat downfortably before finally voicing his thoughts.


    Sang Wan received a cup of hot tea from Liu Ya and passed it to Shi Fengju before smiling to say, ¡°A woman must follow her husband, be he a rooster or dog. What else can a female do but endure? I do think that it¡¯s good for Big Sister to have such a heart. At the very least, she won¡¯t be living ufortably, and it¡¯ll make the days much easier to live by!¡±


    Shi Fengju was startled by her words, for he did not expect her to say so. Those words seemed to be pointed at an additional person, and they seemed to have another meaning as well. Shi Fengju put his cup aside and ordered the servants to leave before smiling, ¡°Sang Wan, are you still angry at me?¡±


    ¡°Just where did you get that idea from!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face turned slightly red. She had been at a loss for words before she quickly smiled. ¡°Aren¡¯t, aren¡¯t we different from them?¡±


    ¡°Of course we¡¯re different from them, we¡¯re¡ª¡± The smile on Shi Fengju¡¯s face stiffened.


    Obviously, what he understood from those words were different from what Sang Wan did, and only now did he realize it!


    What he had thought was that he and Ren Zhixian were different, while Sang Wan had actually meant that they were a fake couple unlike Big Sister and Big Brother-inw.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s already frustrated mood turned worse in an instant as he gazed at Sang Wan speechlessly. He wanted to tell her how regretful he was, how he would wish for their agreement to be void, so that she could stay by his side as his wife. However, he knew he should not say it, for his intuition told him that Sang Wan would surely not agree.


    ¡°I¡¯m not my big brother-inw. We will surely be different from them.¡± Shi Fengju nced deeply at Sang Wan before getting up after a while with a smile on his face. ¡°I¡¯m sure these days must have tired you out, so you should turn in early! My big sister and my big brother-inw will be staying over for a few days, so I¡¯m afraid there¡¯ll be a little more work than before! Big Sister isn¡¯t easy to deal with, but be patient when taking care of her. I¡¯ll thank you ahead of time!¡±


    Watching him speak so seriously, Sang Wan could not help but giggle. Very good, at least he knew she was tired and how to say his thanks.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will! In any case, I can¡¯t let the eldest daughter suffer from any grievances in her own home! I¡¯m not really familiar with your big sister¡¯s temperament, so if there¡¯s anything that doesn¡¯t please her, you have to help me out! Whatever apology I have to do, I¡¯ll do so!¡±


    Sang Wan felt that there was a deeper reason behind Shi Yumei¡¯s hostility towards her, a reason that even Shi Fengju, the ¡°victim,¡± would not understand. What¡¯s more, as the eldest daughter of the household while holding the reputation for being shameless, just a few words from her would strip Sang Wan off any opportunity to defend herself. Therefore, taking precautions was necessary.


    ¡°If there¡¯s anything that annoys her, you can just tell me! I won¡¯t let you suffer too.¡± Seeing that she was willing to rely on him, his heart felt somewhat happy without his knowing, and his eyes glistened.


    The two mentioned no things further and went to rest.


    Inside the main courtyard, Shi Yumeiy beside her mother on the bed before speaking her mind out. Then, she gradually dozed off.


    Her reason to sleep with her mother that night was most importantly to speak out what was on her mind.


    Early the next morning when Shi Fengju and Sang Wan just got up, Xiu Chun arrived at the small garden.


    That shocked the both of them. Why had shee?


    ¡°This is to Young Master, ¡± Xiu Chun smiled. ¡°Mistress has requested for Young Master to visit her first after getting dressed before carrying on with work! As for Ma¡¯am, there¡¯ll not be a need to go over to greet Mistress today, so please carry on with the preparations for the festival!¡±


    Hearing that Xiu Chun¡¯s arrival had nothing to do with her, Sang Wan¡¯s heart was relieved, and she heard Shi Fengju say with a nod, ¡°Tell Mother that I¡¯ll be heading over soon!¡± With that, he instructed the servants to serve him quickly for him to wash his face and have a change of clothes. His mother was never one to wake up early, so surely, she must have something really important to say to him!


    Sang Wan briefly stopped Xiu Chun for a while, ¡°When you go back, tell Mistress that I¡¯ll have someone send over Sir¡¯s breakfast too! Yesterday, I had the kitchen staff prepare a few dishes that Big Sister and Big Brother-inw will like, so I¡¯ll have someone send those over!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am!¡±


    Shi Fengju hurriedly went over to where his mother was, and he took a seat before asking, ¡°Why didn¡¯t Mother and Big Sister sleep a little more? Is there something important to have called me over so early in the morning?¡±


    ¡°How can I ah!¡± Wang Shi let out a long sigh before using her fist to softly hit her chest a few times. Shi Yumei, who wore pale green clothes embroidered with chrysanthemums, sat beside Wang Shi with her head lowered. Her expression did not look too good.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s mind somehow understood that this was surely rted to his big sister¡¯s family.


    ¡°Mother, did something happen to Big Sister¡¯s family? Mother, you can tell me directly, and I will have someone to deal with it! She is my sister, not some outsider!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. Even though he disliked his big brother-inw, there was no way he could watch his big sister suffer. And it wasn¡¯t like Shi family could not help them because they could even provide a shelter above their heads for their entire life with no problems.


    ¡°Second brother!¡± Shi Yumei looked at him, and her eyes were filled with gratitude.


    ¡°Ai!¡± Wang Shi let out another sigh before saying, ¡°Just see if there¡¯s a courtyard within the household that¡¯s convenient and have Sang Wan arrange for some servants to tidy and arrange that ce. Your big sister and your big brother-inw will be staying with us!¡±


    ¡°...¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes widened. He was ready to clean up the mess his immoral big brother-inw might have caused outside, but hearing those words from his mother, they sounded incredibly unbelievable.

 Chapter 85: Big Brother-in-law’s Debt

    <h4>Chapter 85: Big Brother-inw¡¯s Debt</h4>


    Ren Zhixian always thought of himself as some brilliant person by acting all pretentious of his self-righteousness. He had always looked down upon Shi family as a family that stunk of money, and Shi Fengju was aware of that. Hearing his mother say that he was willing to stay in this ¡®stinky¡¯ household, Shi Fengju was very surprised.


    ¡°Is this Big Sister¡¯s or Big Brother-inw¡¯s idea? Does Big Brother-inw also agree to this?¡± Shi Fengju felt that it was necessary to have his doubts answered. If this were his big sister¡¯s idea, then that single-minded big brother-inw of his would surely make a huge ruckus in the future!


    ¡°It¡¯s something that we¡¯ve discussed ande up with!¡± Shi Yumei hurriedly said, ¡°Since it¡¯s also veryfortable here, it¡¯ll surely make him feel at ease as he studies. Qingzhou is also closer to Hangzhou, so going over there three yearster for the exams will also be more convenient! Moreover, my husband can help guide Third Younger Brother! Three yearster, they can both journey to Hangzhou together and take care of each other while on their way there!¡±


    ¡°No need!¡± When Shi Yumei mentioned about having Ren Zhixian give some ¡®guidance,¡¯ Wang Shi and Shi Fengju quickly refused in unison.


    ¡°Third Younger Brother already has a tutor to guide him. That tutor has also said that he can take the exams in two years time. Changing a tutor halfway through will not be beneficial for Third Younger Brother! And doesn¡¯t Big Brother-inw also have to study? We can¡¯t have Third Younger Brother affecting him in his studies ah!¡± Shi Fengju added.


    ¡°Agreed, agreed! Your Second Brother is right!¡± Wang Shi quickly went along with it.


    Shi Fengju felt ufortable letting an unreliable person guide his younger brother. Let¡¯s say that this unreliable person really did give his younger brother guidance. If he were unable to pass the next exam, he would surelyin that he had spent most of his time guiding his wife¡¯s younger brother and thus neglected his own studies! Moreover, if Shi Fenghua were to pass, that person would surely brag that it was all because of his guidance!


    After listening to Shi Fengju¡¯s exnation, Shi Yumei¡¯s expression, that had changed slightly, returned to its usual again, and she could not help but smile with a nod. ¡°That¡¯s understandable! But, is that tutor of his reliable? He better not hold down our Fenghua!¡±


    ¡°Reliable! He¡¯s reliable! He is a senior from Hanlin Academy who returned back to his hometown after retiring!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s mouth spoke quickly.


    Shi Yumei let out a long ¡°Oh!¡± and spoke no further. Even though she did not fully agree with her mother¡¯s words, she did not have the confidence to refute.


    Although she had remained quiet, Shi Fengju understood her meaning, and he thought to himself, No matter how unreliable he is, he must at the very least be more reliable than my big brother-inw!


    Seeing her so, Shi Fengju quickly diverted the subject as far away as possible, ¡°Let¡¯s see, how about Banana Courtyard? The area is spacious, and the environment there is quiet. Big Sister, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Banana Courtyard? Banana Courtyard ah... En, let¡¯s go ahead with it! We¡¯ll have that then!¡± Shi Yumei thought for a while, and the smile on her face seemed to be a little forced.


    Banana Courtyard was located at the south of Shi household. Its main entrance faced the outer courtyard with its residence and yards facing inward. A wall ran between the inner region of the household and Banana Courtyard, with a small gate to allow passing through. The entire courtyard happened to be built between the inner and outer regions of the household. At night, those servants on their night duty would lock the small gate, isting the inner and outer regions.


    There were two yards in Banana Courtyard¡ªone in front and one at the back of the residence. The residence itself consisted of two corner rooms connecting to the main room, one back room, one rear room, and two side rooms. In the backyard, there was a one-acre square flower garden decorated with rockeries, a clear pool, and nts. Although small, the garden was decorated beautifully. The front yard was nted with banana trees, plum trees, and bamboos, making the atmosphere extremely elegant and quiet¡ªit was a ce very suitable for studying.


    A ce like that was already considered the best for someone who brought her husband back after being married off.


    However, Shi Yumei could not help but feel somewhat saddened because what she had originally wanted to propose was to return to her own individual building where she had stayed before her marriage. But as of now, that building was no longer a ce for her! The Shi family would very soon have a new missy¡ªthe daughter of her younger brother, and that ce would belong to that new missy! How could she, who brought her husband back, ever return to the inner region of the household?


    Feeling saddened, she could sense the new restraints that were holding her back as an ¡°outsider¡± which she did not have in the past, and she quickly forced a smile and said, ¡°Then, I¡¯ll have to trouble Second Younger Brother! When Banana Courtyard is ready, we¡¯ll move into it. In the future, we¡¯ll eat by ourselves.¡±


    ¡°Why are you being so polite to your own brother!¡± Seeing that Shi Yumei was restraining herself, Wang Shi also got a little saddened. Thinking back to when her daughter used to be so strong-willed and troublesome, she had changed after an ill-matched marriage. Her father-inw and her mother-inw passed away three years after their marriage, and from then on until now, it had not been another three to four years before her immoral husband ruined the entire household clean. Even her dowry was sold off!


    Seeing her daughter in such a state with a timid expression that would have been impossible to express in the past, these few years really must have not been easy for her. For her daughter¡¯s disposition to have even changed, as a mother, how could she not be saddened?


    Wang Shi could not help but hold her daughter¡¯s hand. Her next words were for Shi Fengju to listen, ¡°There¡¯s no hurry, let your younger sister-inw handle the tidying of Banana Courtyard after the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. Once it¡¯s tidied, you can move in immediately! In the future, if there¡¯s anything you wish to eat, just feel at home and have the kitchen send the dishes you like over! And if there are times when you think of Mother, you can juste over and apany Mother! Keke, Mei¡¯er ah, you¡¯ll always be Shi family¡¯s Eldest Daughter! Whatever you want, just voice it out. If anyone dares to disrespect you, I¡¯ll be the first to have no mercy on that person!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right ah, Big Sister, since you¡¯re back, you should settle down with a peace of mind! You¡¯re also Father and Mother¡¯s daughter. A portion of Shi family¡¯s assets belongs to you, too!¡± Shi Fengju alsoughed.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s heart loosened a little, and she quickly smiled to say her thanks to her mother and her younger brother. Then, she dismissed Shi Fengju, ¡°And just listen to what you just said! The family¡¯s business is run single-handedly by you, so I didn¡¯t do a single thing for it. Father and Mother married me offvishly with exceptionally good dowry. The Shi family doesn¡¯t owe me anything anymore. The entire assets belong only to you and Fenghua, and they have nothing to do with me! If you ever dare say that again, I¡¯ll really die of shame!¡±


    Mother, daughter, and brother¡ªall three of them let out a goodugh.


    Shi Fengju then smiled. ¡°Hmm, in the future, I¡¯ll give Big Sister and Big Brother-inw twenty silvers as monthly allowance from my ount. Then Big Sister won¡¯t need to be put in a difficult spot when in need of money. Also, for the renovation of Banana Courtyard, it¡¯ll be a small gift from me as a younger brother! Since Big Sister and Big Brother-inw only arrived yesterday, why not pay Second Aunt and Second Uncle a visit! Oh, as for the gifts, I¡¯ve already had someone prepare them for you. They should be arriving here in a moment¡¯s time!¡±


    In the end, Shi Yumei was a daughter who was already married off, so it would not make any sense for her to continue receiving money from the Main House. Although there would not be anyints from the Main House, there was still the Second House and the Third House¡¯s Aunt and Uncle who were officials. Their opinions must also be taken into ount. Shi Fengju pondered. He would have to pay a visit to Second Uncle and Second Aunt to exin to them personallyter on and make it clear to them that his big sister¡¯s expenses, as well as his big brother-inw¡¯s, would be taken from his own ount and not from the joint ount that the entire household owned.


    Shi Yumei was indeed worried about that, but after hearing Shi Fengju¡¯s words, she was extremely pleased, and sheughed. Wang Shi alsoughed as she praised her son for his thoughtfulness and capability.


    At a side, Nanny Jiang held back the urge to roll her eyes. Oh Mistress ah, this sort of thing should have been handled by you! Really, the young master here is a rare breed! Mistress truly is blessed! He has already handled it all, so much so that he has savedonu breath from having to remind you!


    ¡°Oh yes, since Big Sister and Big Brother-inw will be staying here, have you arranged for your former estate andnd in Mengxian to be put up for sale? If not, I can have a servant to go over and take a look!¡±


    There was no way to rely on that incarnate of a worm, but in order for Shi Fengju to save himself the effort of getting angry, he quickly brushed that thought aside.


    ¡°Yes, yes, have Fengju send someone to do that! You can always rely on Fengju to do that!¡± Feeling concerned, Wang Shi added.


    But who knew that Shi Yumei¡¯s face would suddenly express an unnatural expression, and she mumbled, ¡°No need, no need! E, before we came, we, we had already handled all that. Really, everything¡¯s already handled! There¡¯s no need to trouble Second Younger Brother!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Shi Fengju nced at her suspiciously before saying, ¡°Alright then! But I still think it¡¯ll be good to have someone to go over and do some inspection!¡± There was a slight sneer in his tone. After all, Big Brother-inw is a schr. There¡¯s a high chance that he might get deceived due to his unfamiliarity with these kinds of mundane affairs! It¡¯ll be more assuring to send someone over to take a look!


    ¡°I think that would be for the best!¡± Wang Shi also nodded.


    ¡°No!¡± Shi Yumei became so anxious that she almost jumped up from her seat.


    That shocked even herself, and she quickly calmed down as she revealed a smile to decline, ¡°Really, there¡¯s no need to! Mother, Second Brother is very busy, so how can I make him worry about something that matters so little? It¡¯ll make me and my husband feel bad ah! We really handled it already, so there¡¯s no need to make things so troublesome.¡±


    Wang Shi snorted before letting out a sigh, ¡°How is that troublesome! The troublesome matter has yet to be said!¡±


    ¡°Mother...¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s face turned stiffer, and her head was lowered.


    ¡°Mother, Big Sister, is there still something else that you¡¯re keeping from me? Tell me!¡± Shi Fengju nced at them, then he added, ¡°I¡¯m sure you all understand me.¡±


    What he meant was, even if they were to keep quiet, there was no way he would not find that out for himself.


    Wang Shi quickly spoke, ¡°That was why we called you here mah! It¡¯s that, in Mengxian, your big brother-inw owes a calligraphy house 600 silvers, Hongtai Restaurant 380 silvers, Rongji Satin Business 240 silvers...¡±


    ¡°Mother, enough!¡± Shi Fengju could feel his anger rising up to his head, and he spoke inly, ¡°Is there a bill? Let me have it!¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s right here!¡± Shi Yumei awkwardly smiled as she fished the bill out and handed it to Shi Fengju.


    That did it. The anger rushed all the way up to his head. Although he was the one who had asked, seeing his big sister pull out the bill that belonged to his big brother-inw made him angrier!


    That scum!


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression darkened as he scanned the bill from the head to the bottom. Hah, what a fellow! Almost everything is included in there, from clothing to food to shelter. From the long list of items in the bill, it almost looked like a list of a family¡¯s assets.


    There were things like 5 silvers from a certain snack shop and 3 silvers from a certain grocery store. Although ridiculous, Shi Fengju was toozy to get mad at that, but his eyes suddenly widened. ¡°Drinking House, 800 silvers?¡±


    ¡°Drinking House?¡± Wang Shi¡¯s expression changed, and she asked with a darkened face, ¡°What¡¯s this? You didn¡¯t tell me about thatst night!¡±

 Chapter 86: So He Still Has A Face To Keep

    <h4>Chapter 86: So He Still Has A Face To Keep</h4>


    ¡°There, there¡¯s no way I could remember all of it so clearly ah!¡± Shi Yumei forced a smile as she exined, ¡°Mother, Younger Brother, you misunderstand. My husband only went there with a few friends to do poetry and conduct discussions! He did nothing else, and he didn¡¯t stay there overnight, really!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± The anger in Wang Shi¡¯s stomach became unbearable!


    ¡°Enough, I understand,¡± Shi Fengju nodded, ¡°Mother, Big Sister, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll have someone look into itter on.¡± The bill had totaled up to be nearly three thousand silver, and there was no way I could make do without deducting from my own personal ount, Shi Fengju thought to himself. It was fortunate that he had several other private outlets outside, or else he would have had to put his own personal items on auction just to cover the bill! That bast*rd! Just how did he end up with such a brother-inw?


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Shi Fengju suddenly smiled and said, ¡°Tell me the truth, really! Your former estate andnd, was it really handled already?¡±


    Shi Yumei opened her mouth. Since her younger brother would be sending someone to check their assets, he would find out sooner orter, and she, therefore, vomited out everything she knew.


    So it seemed they didn¡¯t have any assets left! Even their house was sold by Ren Zhixian! And so, the two had to bring Cui Zhu along with them as they went on the run! Of course, they had to dodge all suspicions of them owing a debt. After all, Ren Zhixian was a schr who was often chased by shops and restaurants every day for his debt. If word got out, how humiliating would it be?


    ¡°How could this have happened! How could this have happened!¡± Wang Shi was so furious that her expression was distorted, and she could say nothing more. Her son-inw had always been unreliable, and she was clear of that, but never had she expected him to be so unreliable to such an extent!


    Originally, she had clenched onto the hope that because he was a schr, there was a chance that he might pass the government examinations and be an official. That way, her daughter would be able to live afortable life! Who could have known that¡ª


    ¡°What have I done? I¡¯ve sinned!¡± Tears trickled down Wang Shi¡¯s face, for she regretted not ending this ill-fated marriage. How did someone of such a high caliber end up in such a state!


    Shi Yumei could not help but sob, ¡°Mother, once he passes the examinations and bes an official, the amount we owe will surely be returned. Surely!¡±


    Not saying anything would have been better. Hearing her so, Wang Shi became even more upset because she knew that was impossible! But how could her foolish daughter be so fixated on it!


    ¡°Hmph! That would only happen if his ancestors can be deities!¡± Wang Shi was so furious to the point that she almost died of anger.


    Indeed, Shi Yumei could not ept that fact, and she could not help but cry, ¡°Mother, you were the one who married me off to him in the first ce, and now you¡¯re ming me! Do you think that he would have no future prospects? Then why did you marry me off to him in the first ce! What can I do! In the end, I still have to continue on living!¡±


    Wang Shi and Shi Fengju remained silent. In their hearts, they secretly sighed, Just why did he turn out like this!


    Shi Fengju pondered deeply. He might have already had such a personality, but because his parents were there to discipline him in the past, he had never been the one to make the decisions. And now, his true colors were exposed! But his sister had already married him!


    Wang Shi and Shi Fengju quickly went tofort Shi Yumei, but Wang Shi¡¯s heart became even more pained, and her eyes shed tears. Shi Yumei could not bear watching her own mother cry, and she held her tears back.


    ¡°Big Sister, Mother¡¯s words are only spoken out of impulse due to anger. Do not put them to heart! In any case, isn¡¯t Mother showing her care and concern towards you? If it were others, they will surely not speak with the same feelings that Mother has! A few thousand silver isn¡¯t worth much, I¡¯ll deal with it! Our family has more than enough bowls of rice to feed Big Sister and Big Brother-inw, so you can stay with a peace of mind!¡±


    ¡°Second Younger Brother...¡± Shi Yumei was extremely grateful, and she reconciled with her mother. Atst, the storm had finally passed.


    Shi Fengju spoke again, ¡°In the future, if Big Brother-inw requires something, you can always request it from me, and I will have someone buy it! On a normal idle day, have him study in the household peacefully! When he gets tired, he can take a stroll in the flower garden. There are lots of distractions out in the streets that will easily divert his attention, causing harm to his study progress. Big Sister, for the sake of Big Brother-inw, you¡¯ll have to control him properly!¡±


    Shi Fengju spoke with an intense tone, seemingly as if he were pressing the entire burden of controlling Ren Zhixian onto Shi Yumei. Shi Yumei could not help but sense that heavy burden that was now on her shoulders, and she quickly nodded her head with a calm expression. ¡°Second Younger Brother, you¡¯re right! There are filthy people out on the streets, and there are many things that can happen out there, but at least the household is clean and conducive for studying! Do not worry, I¡¯ll properly control him!¡±


    ¡°En! I knew my Big Sister can understand where I¡¯ming from!¡± Shi Fengju smiled, and he praised, ¡°Our Qingzhou isn¡¯t like Mengxian where we buy on credit, and I¡¯m sure Big Sister is familiar with such. So if there¡¯s a day when Big Brother-inw wishes to buy something out in the streets, have someone inform me, and I¡¯ll apany him. I¡¯m acquainted with most of therge and small businesses here, so I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll give a better deal with me around!¡±


    ¡°En, that¡¯s true, that¡¯s true!¡± Shi Yumei nodded as she listened before smiling. ¡°Second Younger Brother, you treat me well indeed!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that. We¡¯re siblings mah!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. If that bast*rd were to drown himself in debt again, not only would his d*mned habit be med, even the Shi family¡¯s reputation would be thrown to the ground! Shi Fengju thought to himself.


    After apanying Shi Yumei and Wang Shi for a little while longer, Shi Fengju then got up to leave, so that he could deal with the mess his immoral Big Brother-inw had made. Wang Shi urged him to stay for breakfast, but he had no appetite, so he shook his head and excused himself by saying that he had already arranged to meet with someone for breakfast.


    ¡°Second Younger Brother!¡± Not long after he had left, Shi Yumei suddenly chased after him. She hesitated for a moment before smiling. ¡°Second Younger Brother ah, erm, your Big Brother-inw¡¯s debt, en, can you not tell that to anyone... Can you head over to Mengxian and help him deal with the debt...¡±


    Shi Fengju was taken aback.


    All he saw was Shi Yumei¡¯s lowered head as she spoke shyly, ¡°After all, he is a schr... If others were to know, it¡¯ll be embarrassing...¡±


    So he has a face to keep ah! If that¡¯s the case, then how could he have done such a thing!


    How Shi Fengju wished he could just have someone beat that Big Brother-inw of his so that he could relieve himself!


    Oh well! There wasn¡¯t any point in getting angry! His Big Brother-inw was not worth getting angry at!


    ¡°Alright, then I¡¯ll head over to Mengxian today!¡± Shi Fengju held his anger back, time after time. Deep down, he let out a long sigh before answering with a slight smile.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Fengju!¡± Shi Yumei could finally let out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Big Sister, tell Big Brother-inw that this kind of thing must not happen again!¡± Shi Fengju spoke inly.


    ¡°Of course, of course! Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll make sure that it doesn¡¯t happen again, I will!¡± Shi Yumei quickly nodded her head.


    ¡°Oh right,¡± Just before leaving, Shi Fengju asked out of the blue, ¡°Have all of your belongings been moved over? Including his books, ink, and paper as well?¡±


    Shi Yumei smiled and replied, ¡°Those had already been gifted to others! He said that he had given them to all his former friends as a memento! Erm, I have the book list here with me, so I might have to trouble you again to buy another set of books for him when you¡¯re back...¡±


    ¡°...¡± Shi Fengju was rendered speechless. ¡°Even the four schrly treasures bought from Guangwen Building were given away?¡±


    Guangwen Building has arge shop in Qingzhou. It specialized in the four schrly treasures, ancient books, and calligraphy, as well as many other items meant for schrs. The prices on each of their items were not cheap. One set of high-quality schrly treasures which consisted of a brush from Huzhou province, a signed ink stick from the province of Huizhou, a stack of rice papers from the province of Xuanzhou, and a high-quality ink-b from Duanzhou. Their most expensive set was worth more than a thousand silver, while their cheapest one already cost more than two hundred silver.


    ¡°I think so! Anyway, nothing is left!¡± Shi Yumei was apparently not knowledgeable of what a set of four schrly treasures meant to a schr and thus felt that it must be inexpensive.


    ¡°...¡± It would have been better not to ask. Asking had only made him angrier. That son of a b*tch!


    When Shi Fengju returned to the small garden, Sang Wan had already had her breakfast and was about to head over to Linqing Pavilion to listen to the reports by the servants in the household. She was taken aback by the sight of her husband who should have left for work. Observing his expression, Sang Wan became even more surprised.


    ¡°Have you forgotten something? Why¡¯re you back?¡± Sang Wan quickly went up to him and asked.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Shi Fengju sat down and gestured for a cup of tea. He raised his head and looked at Sang Wan. ¡°Instruct Zhang Huan to prepare the carriage. Also, prepare two sets of clothing for me, will you? I¡¯ll be away for a while. I will return tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Sang Wan nodded her head and did not question him. She hurriedly instructed Hong Ye to look for Zhang Huan before bringing Zhide into the chamber to pack Shi Fengju¡¯s clothes. Soon after, she heard Shi Fengju ask Liu Ya, ¡°Is there anything left to eat? Quickly, just bring in anything to eat!¡±


    ¡°Hmm? Have you not eaten at your mother¡¯s ce?¡± Sang Wan¡¯s words traveled out from the chamber. After instructing Zhide to pack the clothes, she then instructed Liu Ya to go to the small kitchen to take a look if there was any food left. If there wasn¡¯t any, she would then instruct Liu Ya to tell the kitchen staff to make a bowl of noodles.


    ¡°No need for the trouble. If there isn¡¯t anything to eat, I¡¯ll just eat out!¡± Warmth filled Shi Fengju¡¯s heart and he smiled. Having a wife sure is good, at least she is reliable!


    ¡°The food is easy to prepare, so it¡¯ll be served quickly!¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°You should eat at home first before hurrying off. At least it¡¯ll save you the trouble of having to eat out.¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and said no more.


    After Shi Fengju had left, Sang Wan returned to handling the household affairs as per usual and did some slight adjustments to the menu for theing Mid-Autumn Festival feast before showing it to Wang Shi. Wang Shi smiled after reviewing the menu, and she ordered a servant to hand it to the kitchen staff to have them follow the menu for the feast.


    In the afternoon, Gu Fangzi returned from the temple.


    She first went back to Peony Garden to wash up and have a fresh change of clothes before bringing Lan Xiang along to greet Wang Shi in the main courtyard.


    She saw Gu Fangzi¡¯s thin and pallidplexion with no makeup applied on her face. Her in white clothes, as well as her casually chosen essories, made her look even more pitiful. Wang Shi could not help but take pity on her. It pained her heart so much so that she went tofort Gu Fangzi for a brief moment.


    Gu Fangzi nodded her head asionally, and she did her best to recall all the sad and tragic experiences she had had. Tears began trickling down her face, and that made Wang Shi pity her even more.


    ¡°My good child, don¡¯t be sad! In the future ah, this will be your house, and your aunt will be your rtive. Foolish child, don¡¯t cry anymore ah!¡± Wang Shi held onto Gu Fangzi and let out a sigh.


    ¡°En! Thank you Aunt! Fang¡¯er is really fortunate to have you as my aunt!¡± Gu Fangzi nodded as she wiped the tears from her eyes.


    Thereafter, she smiled at Wang Shi and spoke, ¡°Aunt, yesterday when I was at the temple receiving blessings and doing a ritual, I dreamt of my father! He said to me that everything in the past was all his fault. It was his fault for not being a responsible husband as well as not being a father which caused my mother and me to suffer a lot! However, it was unfortunate that it was toote for regrets! He said he wouldpensate us both in his next life!¡±


    Wang Shi could not help but sigh as she put both her hands together, ¡± It seems he still has a conscience! Ai unfortunately, it truly is toote!¡±

 Chapter 87: A Dead Man’s Request

    <h4>Chapter 87: A Dead Man¡¯s Request</h4>


    Again, Gu Fangzi sighed, ¡°My father also said that all these years were all thanks to the Shi family¡¯s care. However, with no way to repay them, he said that he will surely bless you with a long life and protect the Shi family¡¯s business to make it a bigger sess! He also instructed Fang¡¯er to respect you and serve Big Cousin well. Only by doing so can he repay the kindness given to the Gu family!¡±


    As Gu Fangzi spoke, she sobbed while getting up before kneeling in front of Wang Shi with her head lowered deeply.


    ¡°Oh my, quickly, get up, get up!¡± Wang Shi frantically ordered a servant to help Gu Fangzi up before speaking gently, ¡°My child ah! You¡¯ve always been sensible, and I know you¡¯ve always looked out for me and Fengju! You¡¯ve already done well, and you¡¯re very filial! Be good ah, don¡¯t be like this! Otherwise, it¡¯ll pain my heart! Your father, too! Such a thing need not be instructed twice!¡±


    The edges of Wang Shi¡¯s lips were slightly raised, and her expression was somewhat joyous. Gu Jin, this kind of person, who¡¯d expect him to be more mature after death and know how to repay kindness! If he were really to bless us and ensure that our family bes better and better, then that can be considered doing us justice!


    Choking on her emotions, Gu Fangzi said her thanks before getting up and wiping away her tears. ¡°My father also said that he has seen how filial I was towards him, and he told me that being filial towards him in my heart was enough. With my current situation, he said that there¡¯s no need for me to be so restricted. He said that since I have already married into the Shi family, then I¡¯m now a Shi family member, so there¡¯s no need for me to mourn for three years! He also said that by being filial to Aunt and serving Big Cousin well, it¡¯ll also mean being filial towards him!¡±


    As she said that, she pulled out a yellowish note paper and handed it to Wang Shi with both hands. ¡°This morning, I went to seek the head priest to interpret the dream I had the night before and to instruct me what I should do. Aunt, please have a look at what the priest has interpreted.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Let me see then!¡± Wang Shi extended her hand.


    She took the piece of note paper, but it suddenly dawned upon her that she was not familiar with written words. However, looking at the note paper, it was indeed something a temple priest would use. The words were also neat and beautiful, just like the ones the priest had written on in the past.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you read it out for Aunt!¡± Wang Shi handed the note paper back to Gu Fangzi.


    Gu Fangzi received it and read the five to six sentences out loud before exining to Wang Shi what they meant. It was all about knowing one¡¯s mistakes and changing for the better¡ªthis was thus Gu Jin¡¯s way of repenting for the sins he hadmitted. But there was one important point, and that was Gu Fangzi could discreetly reduce the mourning period.


    ¡°The mourning period is a heavenly principle, but Father has told me so. As his daughter, I do not know how long he¡¯d like me to mourn for, and so I went to ask the priest to make the decision for me. The priest calcted with his knuckle and said that half a year is enough. Once half a year has gone by, he wishes for me to return to the temple to conduct a ritual and ce Father¡¯s tablet in the temple!¡±


    After listening, Wang Shi nodded and said, ¡°Since the head priest has already said so, then it must be right! We¡¯ll go with what the head priest said!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was secretly delighted, and she quickly nodded her head. ¡°Fang¡¯er also thought the same! This way, not only will I have done my part as my father¡¯s daughter, I, I can also be more filial to Aunt as soon as possible! This will be the best of both worlds!¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Wang Shi nodded with a smile before sighing with a few words about Gu Jin.


    As they spoke, a cheery voice interrupted from outside, ¡°Aiya, isn¡¯t this Cousin Fangzi! My little cousin, you¡¯re back ah!¡±


    It was Shi Yumei.


    She went up to Gu Fangzi and pulled Gu Fangzi¡¯s arm before looking at her from top to bottom. She was startled as she said, ¡°Why are you dressed so inly in white! After not seeing Cousin Fangzi for more than a year, yourplexion doesn¡¯t look as good as before! Is someone bullying you? My second brother will surely be distressed when he sees you in such a state!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes sparkled as she graced upon the red embroidered coat and crimson red skirt with sixteen folds worn by a youngdy whose hair was tied into a bun. Gu Fangzi intimately held thedy¡¯s shoulder and eximed, ¡°Cousin Yumei, you¡¯re back! It¡¯s good, it¡¯s really good to see you!¡± With her eyes still slightly puffy, she spoke softly, ¡°No one¡¯s bullying Fangzi, and Fangzi is still in her mourning period... Everyone in this household treats Fangzi well!¡±


    The two cousins looked at each other gleefully, and Shi Yumei pulled Gu Fangzi back to her seat before snorting, ¡°Of course the people here will treat you well. But as for that outsider, it¡¯s hard to tell! There are those, ah, who are used to putting on a facade. On the surface, they might look wise, but they¡¯re just a scorpion deep within. I¡¯ve seen so many of these!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no such thing! Cousin Yumei, you worry too much! Our Shi household has no such person!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly smiled.


    Wang Shi also smiled and spoke, ¡°Yes ah! You ah, you should think more like your cousin! Our family has no such person!¡±


    Shi Yumei licked her lips wet and stopped talking. She turned and congratted Gu Fangzi upon finally bing an official Shi family member before sighing, ¡°Why did Uncle die at just a period! Ai, the road to happiness is paved with hardships, but that might have been too much for you!¡±


    Those words touched Gu Fangzi¡¯s sore spot. Recalling the shameful marriage ceremony she had and how Shi Fengju no longer treated her like before, her eyes turned slightly red as tears gradually trickled down her face. ¡°Father was not fortunate, so Fangzi isn¡¯t too...¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just stop here! It¡¯s my bad, I shouldn¡¯t have said things to make you recall those unhappy thoughts!¡± Shi Yumei quicklyforted her.


    Gu Fangzi broke into a smile, and she nodded, ¡°En, let¡¯s not speak about it! It¡¯s fortunate that Aunt and the Shi household are extremely blessed that even Fangzi is blessed!¡±


    ¡°Haha, you ah, your tongue has always been smart and has always known how to speak! How can you always make others so fond of you!¡± Shi Yumeiughed. Shi Yumei reached her hand out and gave Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand a squeeze.


    The first moment when Wang Shi heard the word ¡®fortunate,¡¯ she immediately recalled the words that Nanny Li spoke which made her feel somewhat ufortable. But after listening for a little while longer, her expression lightened again. As she observed the two who were on intimate terms, she smiled. ¡°Enough, enough, Fangzi, you may go back. If you two sisters have things to say, don¡¯t do it here, or else you¡¯ll both make so much noise that it¡¯ll annoy me! When it¡¯s time for dinner, I¡¯ll have someone call for the both of you!¡±


    ¡°I so happen to have lots of things I¡¯d like to speak with Cousin Fangzi! Then, we won¡¯t bother Mother anymore!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and got up.


    ¡°Me too!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and said goodbye to Wang Shi before leaving with Shi Yumei.


    Not too long after leaving the courtyard, Shi Yumei impatiently spoke about Sang Wan and asked about her.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s was secretly d that she had asked. Her expression remained as it was, and she subconsciously gazed at her surroundings before smiling as she skipped the questions. She then moved on to ask Shi Yumei when she had arrived and whether or not the trip here was tiring.


    Shi Yumei was furious. However, she was not furious at Gu Fangzi, but at Sang Wan. Gu Fangzi had always been clear and straightforward. Without a doubt, it must have been because of Sang Wan¡¯s ¡°suppression¡± which made Gu Fangzi afraid to utter a single word about her. Just how tyrannical is this Sang Wan?


    Marrying into the Shi family from a broken Sang family is already enough as a blessing! But not living fairly and honestly, while being despicable, that is just unheard of! Just who does she think she is!


    ¡°Fangzi, I don¡¯t want to say this, but after not seeing you for more than a year, where have your guts ran off to! How could you let someone from an impoverished family scare you like this!¡± Shi Yumei sneered.


    ¡°Cousin Yumei, don¡¯t say that! Fangzi doesn¡¯t understand what you mean!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and blinked her eyes. Seeing how mad Shi Yumei was and how she was about to blurt something out, Gu Fangzi quickly grabbed her arm and pled as she looked at her in the eye, ¡°Cousin Yumei!¡±


    Shi Yumei let out a long sigh, ¡°Alright, that can wait until we return to Peony Park!¡±


    Seeing how uneasy Gu Fangzi was since she was now a concubine while the other was the wife, if that person were to stir up trouble, it would not do Gu Fangzi any good. For the sake of a moment, she should not cause trouble for her dearest cousin!


    ¡°En! Okay!¡± Gu Fangzi loosened her expression, and she quickly nodded with a smile.


    Once they returned to Peony Park, Shi Yumei questioned Gu Fangzi about Sang Wan without any cares for politeness. Gu Fangzi, of course, was reluctant to answer her.


    Shi Yumei had always been impatient and outspoken. In just a brief moment, Gu Fangzi had made her want to leap from her seat just from the anger in her heart.


    Under the relentless pressure and questioning, Gu Fangzi finally confessed, revealing only half of all the ill-experiences she had suffered.


    She left the other half to Shi Yumei¡¯s imagination.


    As the borders of imagination were endless, the more Shi Yumei thought, the uglier her view of Sang Wan became.


    ¡°That vixen! How could Second Brother have married her! I knew that she wasn¡¯t something good! Otherwise, why would Mother and Second Brother be so fond of her!¡± Shi Yumei gritted her teeth hatefully as she scornfully said, ¡°Mother must be getting old and foolish! She should have canceled the marriage before it happened! You are better than her in every aspect and can be of help to Second Brother with the business. You are the most suited to be Second Brother¡¯s wife!¡±


    Those were the words which Gu Fangzi loved to listen to. Moreover, she too also felt that way. Feeling a sense of warmth in her heart, she held onto Shi Yumei¡¯s hand tightly and whimpered, ¡°Cousin Yumei, I couldn¡¯t have wished for more than those words! But because Fangzi isn¡¯t fortunate, Fangzi cannot me others!¡±


    Shi Yumei grunted, ¡°Nonsense! If you aren¡¯t fortunate, then that Sangss is even more unworthy! Hmph, let¡¯s just see how long she can remaincent! That vixen, other than knowing how to seduce men, what else does she know! In what aspect is she worthy of our Fengju!¡±


    Gu Fangzi listened with great enthusiasm, but she quickly persuaded, ¡°Cousin Yumei, you shouldn¡¯t say that! As of now, the household is hers to manage...¡±


    ¡°So what!¡± Shi Yumei became angrier, ¡°What¡¯s there for the eldest daughter of the Shi family to be afraid of? Let¡¯s just see how she will deal with me!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei, you¡¯re the Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter and also Aunt¡¯s favorite, so she will certainly not dare to treat you rashly! You shouldn¡¯t bother with me, so go enjoy your blessings!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing this for you! And also for my Shi family! Mother¡¯s health is still well, so I¡¯m sure she wouldn¡¯t dare to step over the line when dealing with you, but all that might change in the future!¡± Shi Yumei nced at Gu Fangzi before frowning, ¡°If I may add, you¡¯re too honest! What irks me is your change in attitude! With the way she¡¯s bullying you now, why didn¡¯t you tell Fengju?¡±


    That immediately poked at Gu Fangzi¡¯s sore spot. Why wouldn¡¯t I? Unfortunately, Big Cousin¡¯s been bewitched by her. I¡¯m sure he wouldn¡¯t be willing to help me!


    Of course, her mouth spoke otherwise.


    ¡°How could I!¡± Gu Fangzi sighed before continuing, ¡°Big Cousin¡¯s so busy all day, and when he returns, he should be taking a good rest. How can I bother him with such trivial things! Also, Cousin Yumei, you¡¯re thinking too much. That is really just a trivial matter. Just look at the clothes and the shelter above me. Sister did not treat me badly!¡±

 Chapter 88: Cousin Pulling an Ally

    <h4>Chapter 88: Cousin Pulling an Ally</h4>


    ¡°You ya! Just... what can I say!¡± Those words made Shi Yumei disappointed at Gu Fangzi for failing to meet her expectations. She carefully looked at the furnishings in the house. It was just like an ice cave! It had lost the splendor it once had, andpared to the past, this was heaven and earth apart!


    Shi Yumei seemed to have neglected the fact that Gu Fangzi was still in her mourning period, and she grunted, ¡°She rearranged your ce into such a state, yet you¡¯re still helping her speak! Even the house of our management servants looks better than this!¡±


    On the topic, she went on to ask, ¡°What happened to your items? Why are you so obedient? You should have picked out a few pieces to look at!¡±


    To fuel the hatred within Shi Yumei, Gu Fangzi distorted the facts as she spoke of the incident regarding how her items were all taken away from her by Sang Wan before adding slyly, ¡°I originally wanted to keep the white jade Guanyin statue edged with gold, a set of gold essories, a string of top quality pearls, and a few other items to gift to Cousin Yumei, but all those were taken away by Sister Sang Wan. Even though Cousin Yumei is now back, I do not have a gift ready...¡±


    ¡°That Sang family¡¯sss is stepping over the line!¡± Shi Yumei was so furious that she jumped from her seat and mmed the table with her palm. ¡°I will find her and let her have a taste of my anger!¡±


    ¡°No, Cousin Yumei! Please, don¡¯t! You can¡¯t ah!¡± Gu Fangzi hurriedly pulled her as tears formed in her eyes.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s original intention of confronting Sang Wan dispersed immediately. She looked at Gu Fangzi, whose tears trickled from her eyes while trying to stop her, and she hesitated for a while before letting out a sigh, ¡°You¡¯re right. If I go now, she would surely not dare to do anything to me. Butter on, she will surely toss all the steam onto you! I should not be so impulsive, or you might be exposed!¡±


    That is it! Gu Fangzi thought to herself.


    ¡°Thank you, Cousin Yumei, for being considerate!¡± Gu Fangzi wiped away her tears before taking two steps back and bowed. With a gentle tone, she spoke, ¡°I¡¯m really fine, really.¡±


    ¡°Enough, I¡¯ll deal with it my way!¡± Shi Yumei let out a slightly deep grunt before sneering, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, even if I did do something, she won¡¯t ever link that to you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi quickly added, ¡°Aunt and Big Cousin already have it difficult. If they were to worry¡ª¡±


    ¡°My mother has already turned foolish! As for my Second Brother, he must have been bewitched! I won¡¯t even bother discussing with any of them!¡± The thought of Wang Shi and Shi Fengju protecting Sang Wan hand in hand made Shi Yumei somewhat frustrated, and she fumed, ¡°Wait until the day I tear off that woman¡¯s mask. My mother and my brother will surely be able to see light when that happens!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei no doubt thinks very wholesomely!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly sent in the high hat. The two took their seats once again before talking over tea.


    Hearing the news that Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian would be staying in the household, Gu Fangzi got happier. Her grin stretched from ear to ear, and a piece of gleeful music yed in her mind.


    ¡°That¡¯s great! That¡¯s really great!¡± She held onto Shi Yumei¡¯s hand firmly, and she smiled brightly as she eximed, ¡°Cousin Yumei, we can talk more often together, just like before!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah!¡± Watching Gu Fangzi¡¯s heartfelt joy filled entirely with wee, Shi Yumei could not help but feel a sense of joy. Reminiscing about the time they had spent together, she felt a sense of warmth in her heart.


    ¡°Since Cousin Yumei will be staying, I can relieve some of my boredom!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled before sighing, ¡°Still, I¡¯m afraid that Cousin Yumei won¡¯t be staying for long. Once Brother-inw Zhixian bes an official, you ah, can finally enjoy yourself! When that timees, don¡¯t forget about this cousin of yours. Remember toe back often ah!¡±


    Everyone loves to listen to lovely words, especially those that would deeply touch the hearts. Shi Yumei became even more gleeful the more she listened, and her eyes dazzled, as if the day her husband would achieve top ce in the imperial examinations was just around the corner. ¡°I will, I will.¡± Shi Yumei answered repeatedly.


    Now that Gu Fangzi had sessfully made her happy, she added more ttery which made Shi Yumei smile even more brightly while feeling even more dissatisfied about Sang Wan.


    Time passed by swiftly, and it was soon the time for dinner. Xiu Chun came over and invited the Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter to return to have dinner.


    ¡°Time really flies!¡± Shi Yumei was surprised, and she looked up at the sky. She then pulled Gu Fangzi and smiled as she invited, ¡°Come, let¡¯s go together!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei, you should go!¡± Gu Fangzi refused and smiled apologetically, ¡°I still have to mourn, so I won¡¯t be going over! I¡¯ll eat something in Peony Garden.¡±


    Hearing her, Shi Yumei could not help but feel sympathy for her. She gently patted Gu Fangzi on the hand and said, ¡°Then I won¡¯t force you, and you shouldn¡¯t think any more of those negative things! Eat a little more, a healthy body is important!¡±


    ¡°En, I understand! Cousin Yumei, you¡¯re just like a sister to me!¡± Gu Fangzi gratefully nodded.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t we always been as close as real sisters!¡± Shi Yumei smiled before leaving with Xiu Chun. On the way, they went to call Ren Zhixian. Together with the concubine Cui Zhu, they followed Xiu Chun from behind.


    The dishes were spread across the table, and the three took their seats. Shi Yumei looked around and frowned, ¡°Why don¡¯t I see Sang Wan?¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking for her!¡± Wang Shi smiled in surprise.


    Shi Yumei snorted, ¡°What kind of daughter-inw is she? When her mother-inw is having her meal, not only is she not serving by her mother-inw¡¯s side, she isn¡¯t even present! Now that she¡¯s managing the household, her arrogance must have increased!¡±


    ¡°Hai! Eat your food!¡± Wang Shi waved her hand ufortably as she smiled, ¡°It was I who told her not toe. It¡¯s enough to have Nanny Jiang, Xiu Chun, and Xiu Li. There¡¯s no need to bother her!¡±


    Shi Yumei was extremely displeased, ¡°Mother, because you treat her so well, she doesn¡¯t know the heights of the sky! It is your generosity if you didn¡¯t mind it, but isn¡¯t that just wrong? Aren¡¯t the Sang family reputable for being knowledgeable? Then how could their missy behave in such a way! When my mother-inw was still around, when have I ever not been beside her to serve her when she was having her meal! As a daughter-inw, she should do her duty!¡±


    Ren Zhixian also nodded, ¡°That¡¯s right, Yumei is indeed right! This is about being filial, so it cannot be ignored! Seeing that she¡¯s such an intelligent person, how can she be so silly?¡±


    She was no doubt an outwardly attractive but worthless person, Ren Zhixian thought disappointedly. It seems that in this family, there was no one who resonated the same way he did!


    Shi Yumei was about to agree after her husband, but after he had finished his sentence, her expression sunk and she sneered, ¡°Intelligent? How many times have you seen her to be able to tell that she is intelligent?¡±


    How should he answer that? Ren Zhixian was at a loss for words, and he replied in scorn with a solemn expression, ¡°It¡¯s not like how you said it! Seriously!¡±


    Arriving from Gu Fangzi¡¯s ce, Shi Yumei brought along a stomach full of resentment towards Sang Wan. Ren Zhixian¡¯s words were like fuel to the me, and it kept on pouring. With a sneer, she raised her volume, ¡°Tell me ya, tell me how you know that she¡¯s an intelligent person!¡±


    ¡°What in the heavens above!¡± Ren Zhixian had never been a polite person. He rolled up his sleeves and spoke sternly, ¡°Just look at you, yelling all of a sudden! Whatever will be next? Can¡¯t you at least be a little moredylike! You¡¯re no different than a shrew from the marketce!¡±


    ¡°What! How dare you call me a shrew!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s face was red with anger. She pulled on his coat and raised a ruckus, ¡°You actually dare to call me a shrew! I tire myself to serve you day in day out, yet all I ever see is your back! There¡¯s no way I can live for another day!¡±


    ¡°Let go! Who ask you to be so unruly! How dare you put your hands on me!¡± Ren Zhixian was furious and embarrassed, and he flung her hands away from his coat.


    ¡°What, what is this that I¡¯m seeing!¡± Wang Shi was furious to the point where her voice trembled, and she did not notice Shi Yumei yelling something about aback. She pointed at the two with her trembling finger and red at the servants serving by the side, ¡°What are all of you still standing there for, pull them apart! Now!¡±


    The servants looked at each other, and as if waking up from a dream, they quickly yelled ¡°Eldest Missy, Sir!¡± as they went to pull them apart. With great difficulty, they finally managed to pull Shi Yumei away from her husband.


    ¡°Mother! I, I¡ª¡± Shi Yumei wept as she felt both ashamed and embarrassed.


    Seeing so, Wang Shi was furious and distressed, but before she had the chance to speak, Ren Zhixian snatched it from her.


    He brushed at his coat as he spoke coldly, ¡°Mother-inw, have you seen this clearly? This woman is rude and unreasonable! Is this how the Shi family educate their daughter!¡±


    With a gust of anger trapped in Wang Shi¡¯s chest, her face turned pale, ¡°You, you, are you questioning me? You, your Ren family must have such great etiquette, to think that the son-inw would dare to question his mother-inw and offend her right in her face!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was startled by his own words, and he quickly rephrased his words, ¡°I do not dare and have no intentions of questioning mother-inw! All I seek is for Mother-inw to properly educate your daughter, or the Shi family¡¯s reputation will be thrown towards the ground!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to worry! My daughter has no need for your cares!¡± Wang Shi gritted her teeth as she spoke, ¡°My daughter has always been a good person at home. I really do mean to ask, just what is this? It has only been a few years, and you¡¯ve ended up in such a state!¡±


    The more Wang Shi thought about it, the more saddened she was. She could not help but let her tears fall.


    Ren Zhixian spoke bitterly, ¡°Exactly, even I want to ask. Howe there was such a great difference from the past, as if the entire person has changed!¡± Deep down, Ren Zhixian thought to himself, Hmph, don¡¯t think you can look down on me just because I may look hopeless! You think I don¡¯t know what all of you are thinking? Just wait and see, the moment when I rise in power, all of you will surely regret it!


    Nanny Jiang could no longer stand this, and she went to persuade Wang Shi to remain calm while pleading to Ren Zhixian, ¡°Young man, couldn¡¯t you have spoken less? At any rate, the mistress is your elder ya!¡±


    How dare a servant tell him what to do? Ren Zhixian was so furious that he felt as if he had died twice. He tugged at his coat before walking away coldly.


    ¡°He, he, how dare he¡ª¡± Wang Shi desperately gasped for air, and she almost choked on it. Shocked, Shi Yumei cared not for herself and quickly went to pat Wang Shi on the chest while calling out to her. After a short while, Wang Shi was finally able to breathe normally.


    The mother and the daughter looked at each other.


    ¡°It is all my fault. This temper of mine just doesn¡¯t change!¡± Shi Yumei forced a smile, ¡°And because of that, it has made Mother feel sad. It is all my fault! Even the dishes have turned cold. Nanny Jiang, have someone heat these up!¡±


    Wang Shi let out a long sigh before taking a long look at her daughter silently. She hadn¡¯t sensed it before, but after taking a good look at her own daughter, she realized that she had lost quite some weight. Her eyes no longer had the zing energy and were now dull and gloomy. Her lips were pale, and right at the edges of her eyes, as well as her forehead, there were several fine wrinkles! After a careful look, her entire vigor and spirit might not be as good as hers!

 Chapter 89: Big Sister Looking for Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 89: Big Sister Looking for Trouble</h4>


    Wang Shi could not help but feel sorry for her own daughter. She pulled Shi Yumei into her arms and sighed, ¡°My good child, it must have been tough for you! When your second brother returns, let him help you!¡± Wang Shi was extremely furious. Our Shi family helped pay off his debt, gave him good food to eat, and let him have a roof above his head, and yet there he went educating me about etiquette! What a joke! Even if my Shi family is wealthy, that money shouldn¡¯t be spent so wastefully! Feeding the dogs would be better! Wang Shi thought to herself.


    ¡°No, don¡¯t!¡± Shi Yumei panicked and said, ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t tell Second Brother about what happened today. Please don¡¯t tell him!¡±


    ¡°You¡ª¡±


    ¡°Mother ah!¡± Shi Yumei smiled as if nothing had happened, ¡°Even I was at fault today. As a man, living in his wife¡¯s parental family would, of course, make him a little ufortable and sensitive! I should have spoken nicely and should not have been overtaken by my anger! It is all my fault for making Mother worry about me! I¡ª¡± Shi Yumei whimpered.


    ¡°You ah!¡± Wang Shi was also feeling somewhat ufortable. Watching her daughter be in such a state, she could not even be angry. She sighed, ¡°Really! Forget it, whatever you say, Mother will side by you! Ai, this really¡ª¡±


    Seeing that her mother had promised her, she let out a sigh of relief. But that made her feel even more of a letdown. So after much thought, she said again, ¡°Mother, I think that after Mid-Autumn Festival, have Banana Courtyard readied quickly, and we will move in immediately! That way, it¡¯ll save Mother from any more troubles!¡±


    Wang Shi was reluctant to give up on her own daughter, and she was about to open her mouth to speak otherwise, but the thought of her unreliable son-inw made her think that not seeing him would be better! She nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯ll also be good! When you two settle down in the courtyard, live your life well! Your husband said he will be participating in the examinations that will be held three yearster, right? So just listen to your second brother and have him concentrate in studying in the courtyard. There won¡¯t be anything else for him to worry about!¡±


    ¡°En, thank you, Mother! Only Mother and Second Brother treat me the best!¡± Shi Yumei smiled gratefully.


    The dishes were served back out again. The mother and the daughter sat to eat, but Shi Yumei felt worried for her husband and went to pick a few dishes before having Cui Zhu send them to Ren Zhixian. Wang Shi watched without saying a word.


    The next day was the annual Mid-Autumn Festival. The entire Shi household were busy early in the morning as they prepared for the festival. In the small garden, the servants shuttled to trade for preparation items, report uponpleting their tasks, or give their opinions. It was extremely lively. Sang Wan, Zhide, and the others were as busy as bees, and Nanny Li brought Liu Ya with her to the kitchen to direct the dinner preparations. This was a major festival, and no mistakes should be made. Only with Nanny Li personally looking over the dinner preparations would Sang Wan not be worried.


    Putting that aside, Shi Yumei wandered around the household and ended up arriving near the small garden. As she watched the servantse and go, she thought of the cold and empty Peony Park which made her heart burn with anger. With a sneer, she headed to the small garden with Cui Zhu.


    Sang Wan heard from a little servant that the eldest missy hade, and she quickly gave her instructions for Zhide to supervise the preparations before leaving with a few other servants.


    ¡°Big Sister! What brings you here!¡± The moment Sang Wan left the house, Shi Yumei had already gone past the patio and was heading her way.


    Shi Yumei was scornful after hearing those words, and she said, either with a mocking intent or not, ¡°My younger sister-inw, you¡¯re now in control of the household, so what need is there to curry favor with me! What¡¯s wrong? Am I not wee?¡±


    Where did thate from?


    ¡°That¡¯s not it! That¡¯s not it!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly smiled as she replied, ¡°It is my fault as I should have invited Big Sister over. It¡¯s just that these few days have been very busy for¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ai, having to manage the ins and outs of the household, there¡¯s no way you can¡¯t be busy. I can understand! I mean, what does it matter? I¡¯m just a missy married out from the Shi family. Inviting me in to have a seat isn¡¯t important at all!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and interrupted her.


    ¡°Big Sister, those words really make me feel bad! Although it was due to my negligence, I hope that Big Sister won¡¯t put it to heart! Oh, Big Sister, please have a seat inside!¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled and invited Shi Yumei into a warm room before the two sat down.


    Seeing that Sang Wan was not reacting to her remarks and responding only with a smile, shebeled her as a big-hearted person as she secretly sneered to herself instead, Indeed sinister to the roots. No wonder Cousin Fangzi didn¡¯t dare say anything even though she was obviously suffering!


    After some cold introductions, the tea was served. Sang Wan was quite startled when Shi Yumei did not ept the tea. She then had to personally give the cup of tea with a smile. ¡°Big Sister, please have some tea!¡±


    Only then did Shi Yumei receive the cup with a smile. She opened the lid, and a faint tea fragrance rose to her nose. Then, she took a nce at the clean and elegant cup before taking a good look at the clear tea. It was yellowish-green¡ªa beautiful and refreshing color for a tea.


    Shi Yumei took a small sip and smiled with praise, ¡°This is good tea! What is this called? I¡¯ve never had this before!¡±


    Sang Wan then smiled to answer, ¡°What you¡¯re drinking is plum tea from Anhui. I, too, think that it is great. If Big Sister likes it, I can have someone send some over to Big Sisterter.¡±


    Shi Yumei nodded and responded with an ¡®oh¡¯ but quickly spoke again, ¡°Nevermind, there¡¯s no need to! If I were to run out of it while being addicted, that wouldn¡¯t be good. I¡¯ll be much better off not having it in the first ce!¡± With that, she said, again either with a mocking intent or not, ¡°In any case, it doesn¡¯t matter whether the tea is here or at my ce, so if ever my mouth itches to have a drink of this good tea, I¡¯ll juste over for some. Sister-inw, you wouldn¡¯t find me a bother, right?¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but feel somewhat sullen deep down. Just what did I do to offend her? Why do her words always sound so thorny!


    ¡°Just listen to what Big Sister said! Why would I dislike Big Sistering over! It¡¯ll be my pleasure to have Big Sistere over if the days are idle!¡± Sang Wan could only smile, and she continued, ¡°If Big Sister really likes this tea a lot, I can pass that on to my husband. He has always respected Big Sister, so I¡¯m sure whenever Big Sister wants it, regardless of quantity, he¡¯ll surely do so!¡±


    Shi Yumei was waiting for Sang Wan to say that she would cover it all, so she coulde over to collect as much tea as she wanted whenever she wants them. Had she said that, Shi Yumei would have had the opportunity to sneer at her with words like, ¡°She who has wealth speaks louder than others. Nothing less from someone managing the household.¡± But to think that Sang Wan would actually use Shi Fengju. That gave Shi Yumei no room to y that card.


    A shrewd person indeed! Shi Yumei sneered to herself.


    ¡°Is that so? Then I¡¯ll take your words for it. In the future, you can¡¯t regret your words if Ie here often!¡± Shi Yumei eximed weakly, ¡°Speaking of which, I should really try to please you! After all, I have already been married off from my family, but I¡¯m now lodging here, so how can I not try to please thedy in charge of managing the household! This fact is something that I understand! Don¡¯t you say so, Sister-inw?¡±


    ¡°Big Sister¡¯s words are too severe!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed slightly before gazing at Shi Yumei calmly. ¡°The currentdy managing the household is still Mother-inw. Sang Wan is only helping her to deal with some of theplicated affairs! Sang Wan is unworthy of Big Sister¡¯s words!¡±


    ¡°How are you not worthy of it! The one in charge is the one in power! Besides, all these will be yours in the future, so I don¡¯t think it matters!¡± Shi Yumei said with a cold sneer, ¡°My mother¡¯s temperament has always been good and would always think for the better of others. When others say some nice words to her, she would think that they are sincere! My dear younger sister-inw ah, I think the management of this household would be more secure in your hands, or else others might take advantage of the Shi family! Say, don¡¯t you think so!¡±


    Sang Wan tightly squeezed the handkerchief in her hand, and she shook a little. Expressing a sense of realization, Sang Wan quickly smiled and said, ¡°Big Sister indeed has extraordinary insight! I am foolish, like a frog under the well who has never heard of such principle!¡±


    Her honest and straightforward response stunned Shi Yumei, making her at a loss for words. Although secretly annoyed, she pped her hands and smiled to say, ¡°My younger sister-inw is indeed an intelligent person to be able to understand so quickly! Having taught you an important principle, are you not going to thank me?¡±


    Just what kind of important ¡°principle¡± did she teach? Sang Wan almost burst intoughter but she nodded, ¡°Big Sister, is right; I should say my thanks to Big Sister! I¡ª¡±


    ¡°I just knew that my younger sister-inw is big-hearted!¡± Shi Yumei interrupted with a smile, ¡°Your big sister isn¡¯t a greedy person. Why don¡¯t you gift your big sister two pieces of jewelry. How about it?¡±


    How about it? Was there something she could do about it? As if she could refuse!


    Sang Wan could not help but secretly ponder to herself, Big Sister is, nevertheless, the Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter and is cherished deeply by Mother-inw. Sir also treats her with respect and is very fond of her, so why have her eyelids sunk so low to the point where she will even speak of words that sounded of daylight robbery!


    But since she wants them, I might as well let her have them. In any case, those pieces of jewelry do not belong to me.


    Little did Sang Wan know that Shi Yumei¡¯s purpose was to fight for Gu Fangzi¡¯s ¡°justice¡±! She firmly believed that Sang Wan had plotted against Gu Fangzi and robbed her off her belongings, and so, she had the intention of wanting her to bleed.


    ¡°As long as Big Sister isn¡¯t disappointed, please select those which are to your liking!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°My younger sister-inw is indeed generous! Then I shall!¡± Shi Yumei pped and let out augh.


    Sang Wan wanted to have a servant bring out the jewelry, but Shi Yumei imed that there was no need for the trouble. As such, she went into the chamber with Sang Wan before going in front of the dressing table.


    What she saw were plenty of jade jewels, gold headdresses, as well as many other exquisite and finely crafted jewelry. Shi Yumei could not help but secretly marvel at the sight. She was a person who knew her goods, and she knew in a nce how much all these pieces of jewelry were worth. Deep down, she thought to herself, This woman truly is skilled. Just what did she do to bewitch Fengju into such a state! To actually buy so many good things for her!


    Of course, she was clear of her brother¡¯s character. If he was unwilling, no one could get anything from his hands! But once he was fond of someone, he would be entirely devoted to that person.


    Shi Yumei felt even angrier for Gu Fangzi, and she endured the urge to scold her own brother.


    She picked up a ne strung with 18rge pearls, and each of the pearl was round and had a soft luster. It was heavy and extremely valuable. Shi Yumei clicked her tongue as she gave praise to it before putting it down and picking up a white jade embedded precious vermillion hairpin. She fiddled around with it before taking a good look at it. The entire hairpin was a finger and a half long with a gold tip at the end. There were fine dots of white jade embedded at the top of the hairpin, designed in a way to showcase the jade as the petals of a blooming flower and the pearl as the center of the flower. Surrounding the flower were branches made of jade. It was brilliantly crafted and was extremely delicate on the hand.

 Chapter 90: Giving The Jade Hairpin

    <h4>Chapter 90: Giving The Jade Hairpin</h4>


    ¡°Younger Sister-inw, you¡¯ve got so many good things here ah! Just one nce is enough to blind almost anyone! Every one of these is good!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and praised, ¡°Why don¡¯t Sister-inw pick two for me? Anything¡¯s fine!¡±


    Of course, Sang Wan would have to refuse. She knew that no matter what she picked, Shi Yumei would surely not like them, so she might as well let Shi Yumei pick them herself. After all, all these didn¡¯t really belong to her, so she wasn¡¯t really pained if others were to have them.


    As Sang Wan insisted on her picking them herself, she could only smile, and she went to pick the fine mutton-fat jade hairpin which Sang Wan had worn in her hair when they first met. Then, she went on to pick a pair of eighteen beads bracelet, a string of pearls edged with ruby, a set of jewel embedded hairpins, and a pair of gold-madentern earrings embedded with ruby.


    As she picked, she secretly observed Sang Wan¡¯s expression from the corner of her eye. However, there was not the slightest bit of pain expressed on her face, and Shi Yumei was somewhat unamused. Upon a closer look, Sang Wan¡¯s expression did not seem fake, and that made Shi Yumei feel that she was acting a bit too much. This much of a lesson should be enough! Shi Yumei thought to herself and stopped.


    ¡°Younger Sister-inw being so generous will really make me embarrassed as the big sister! I didn¡¯t bring any gifts along with me, yet here I am choosing my younger sister-inw¡¯s things! What would others think if they saw this!¡± Shi Yumei smiled half-sincerely.


    ¡°That¡¯ll surely not happen!¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled and said, ¡°You¡¯re the eldest daughter of the Shi household. Also, Sir¡¯s sister is also my sister! Big Sister, your words are too polite!¡± Sang Wan said before instructing Hong Ye to pack the pieces of jewelry selected by Shi Yumei into a decorated jewelry casket and hand it to Cui Zhu.


    Shi Yumei enjoyed listening to such words, and she saw that the jewelry casket was not only made using a fine material, but was also beautiful in appearance. The inside was covered with red velvet pads and was divided into differentpartments. Eachpartment could store a single item, which showed her thoughtfulness. Evidently, the casket was a valuable object. Shi Yumei could not understand Sang Wan¡¯s initiative to give this away, but the howling sense of fighting against the injustice had slightly receded.


    ¡°Oh, not to forget,¡± Sang Wan smiled and informed, ¡°Sir has also told me to prepare Banana Courtyard for Big Sister and Big Brother-inw. Once it¡¯s tidied, I would like Big Sister toe along with me to see if there¡¯s anything else you¡¯d like to add! I don¡¯t know Big Sister¡¯s preferences too well, so it would be better for Big Sister to have a look first!¡±


    Hearing the words ¡°Big Brother-inw,¡± Shi Yumei felt somewhat ufortable, and she smiled, ¡°Okay! But I¡¯ll have to warn you, I have this little picky habit, but I hope you won¡¯t find it bothersome!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, please don¡¯t say that! I won¡¯t!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°Then that¡¯s good!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and went her way. ¡°It¡¯s busy over here, so I won¡¯t bother you any longer! I¡¯ll head off first!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, be careful! If there¡¯s time, pleasee again!¡± Sang Wan secretly heaved a sigh of relief as she went to see them out.


    In the evening during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the entire family gathered to have a meal together at Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard, but the ce was onlycking of Gu Fangzi.


    In Peony Park, Gu Fangzi ate the cold and in food all by herself as she gazed at the moon outside her window. The moon was bright, and it hung high up in the sky, reflecting a faint light beneath it and making the branches visible in the night.


    She looked up at the moon before hanging her head low in self-pity, and her eyes turned red. Everything around her was quiet, and only the asional breeze rustling the branches and leaves could be heard. In this silence, she seemed to be able to hear the faintughter and lively atmosphere. Comparing it to the cold and silent one in here, Gu Fangzi felt even more miserable.


    It doesn¡¯t matter if the others don¡¯te to see me, but how can Big Cousin not do so! Not even a single greeting! Gu Fangzi could not hold back the huge anger in her heart, but little did she know that Shi Fengju had only made it home shortly before dinner.


    Sang Wan, it must be that vixen pulling the strings!


    Picturing Sang Wan, now dressed morously as she apanied Shi Fengju, Gu Fangzi could not help but have a head full of hatred towards her.


    At the courtyard, Ren Zhixian seemed to have be a little more obedient during the meal. He and his wife ate without any problems, and the others did so as well. Everyone had a wonderful meal.


    Shortly after dinner, the entire family went to Furong Ting, which faced the waters, to watch a specially invited troupe perform in the open. As they chatted and watched the performance under the moonlight, the atmosphere was very lively.


    It had been some time since Shi Yumei had watched a performance so peacefully that she did not care to find any trouble for Sang Wan. Wang Shi only cared to chat with her daughter and her inw, and she was even more keen on not making things awkward for Sang Wan. Ever since Second Mistress¡¯s daughter-inw went back to her family, she was reluctant to return. Her face had been lifeless, and she was sure to not let her tongue run loose about her sister-inw¡¯s daughter-inw. After busying herself for a few days, Sang Wan was finally able to rx. She went to the back and leaned her head on her arms before falling asleep.


    All of a sudden, she felt someone putting a coat over her. Sang Wan gently opened her eyes and saw Liu Ya. With a smile, she said, ¡°You sure are thoughtful! But it isn¡¯t too cold on this day, so there¡¯s no need for it! Why are you here and not watching the performance though? Hurry along, it¡¯s enough to have a few of the other servants here, so there¡¯s no need for the rest of you to serve here!¡±


    The entire household¡¯s management servants, masters, as well as the other maidservants, liked to watch the opera. Zhide, Liu Ya, and the rest even urged Sang Wan to hurry along. At this time, the masters, esteemed management servants, as well as the other nannies sat at a side while around them wererge groups of servants stretching their necks to watch the scene of bustle.


    Wang Shi liked the liveliness, so she ordered for a few long benches to be ced at the side with many melon seeds and candies for the servants to enjoy among themselves. She felt that the more people there were, the more lively the atmosphere would be.


    Hearing so, Liu Ya sneered andughed, ¡°Nubi was enjoying the opera, but Sir suddenly called nubi over. He said that Ma¡¯am is tired and might catch a cold sleeping outside, so he had nubi bring Ma¡¯am a coat! Ma¡¯am, look at how thoughtful Sir is towards you ah!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback, and she nced in the direction where Shi Fengju was. When Shi Fengju noticed that she was looking at him, he smiled back at her. Sang Wan¡¯s face suddenly felt warm, and she chided at Liu Ya, ¡°You sure have a lot of words! You already got the coat, so hurry back! If you¡¯re toote, you might not be able to join what you had seen with what is being performed now!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am! Then, nubi shall leave!¡± Liu Ya giggled and left.


    Sang Wan gently put on the crimson red embroidered silk coat. The smooth and delicate silk felt extremely good to the touch. Apanied by the evening breeze, it wasfortable.


    She lowered her head, but her heart was filled withplex feelings which made her sleepiness and tiredness disappear away with the clouds.


    The kitchen sent over supper as the night grew older. Each person had a bowl of steaming and fragrant chicken soup cooked with fine noodles, tender cabbage, scallop, ham, fresh bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and many more. It was absolutely delicious.


    After having it, the crowd slowly dispersed with a smile on their faces.


    Sang Wan went to instruct the servants with their errands. What had to be wiped, had to be wiped, and what had to be kept, had to be kept. As for the tables, chairs, vases, incense burner, and many others, they must not be forgotten and must be returned to the storage room the next day.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll settle everything over here, so that Ma¡¯am has nothing to worry about! It¡¯s alreadyte at night, Ma¡¯am. You should go back and rest! The young master must still be waiting for you!¡± Before Sang Wan could finish with her instructions, a management servant nced at Sang Wan before chuckling.


    Everyone knew that this Ma¡¯am was very serious in the handling of affairs, and her temperament was also good. She spoke with a gentle voice, and so long as everyone followed by the given instructions, she would never get angry nor would she vent her anger on anyone. Because of that, they dared to crack some jokes with her. It sounded amusing, and the rest of the servants imed so, saying how she should not keep the young master waiting and that the young master had nced over at them quite a few times!


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned somewhat red, and she scolded with a smile, ¡°Each one of you better zip your mouth and clear everything up carefully. If there¡¯s anything missing tomorrow, all of you will have to see me!¡± With that said, she turned around and walked away from the servants.


    Shi Fengju was indeed waiting for her on a small pavement. He had a slender build and wore a long white robe with a sash. With his hands behind his back, he gazed right forward. And as the breeze blew by, his robe fluttered slightly, and he looked just like a deity


    Upon seeing Sang Wan, Shi Fengju smiled at her as he gestured to her to walk towards him.


    Sang Wan was a little embarrassed and d as she walked towards him with her head slightly lowered.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back!¡± Shi Fengju raised his hand and ced it around her shoulder. But after some thought, he quickly kept his arm.


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Wan nodded. The two went back together. Although they might seem close, in fact, the two¡¯s shoulders were not even touching each other. Sang Wan¡¯s pace was slightly behind Shi Fengju¡¯s by half a step. And even though Shi Fengju could hear her shallow breathing, there was a gap between them, as if something was lying there, causing neither of them to be able toe closer to each other.


    Along the way, the two were silent until they returned to the small garden.


    After washing up and returning to the chamber, Shi Fengju suddenly stopped Sang Wan, ¡°The mutton-fat jade hairpin that I gave you, you... gave it to my big sister?¡±


    Sang Wan was startled. She suddenly recalled Shi Yumei putting that mutton-fat jade hairpin on tonight and she nodded before smiling, ¡°Yes, just as you saw it!¡±


    Shi Fengju suddenly felt somewhat ufortable. That was the hairpin which, at first nce, he knew was suitable for her, and he bought it especially for her as a gift. He did not expect her to give it away. Although the recipient was his sister, he still felt ufortable.


    ¡°It was fine on you, so why did you give it to her?¡± Shi Fengju asked, ¡°Although a mutual gift to each other is necessary for meeting the first time, but you¡¯ve already worn that hairpin, so how could you give it to her? If you want to give her something, you should have told me, and I would have had someone buy it again!¡±

 Chapter 91: A Cold

    <h4>Chapter 91: A Cold</h4>


    That angered Sang Wan deeply, and her expression became not too good. Is hebeling the things that have been worn by me as dirty! And that my dirty things are not fit for his noble sister!


    Shi Fengju noticed the change in Sang Wan¡¯s expression, and he knew his words sounded terrible as he pondered to refine those words. Quickly, he smiled as he tried to correct himself, ¡°That, Sang Wan, don¡¯t think too much about it. It¡¯s not that I¡¯m disgusted, not at all! It¡¯s just that, I think... that hairpin suits you when you wear it, so why did you give it to Big Sister? Don¡¯t you have many other pieces of jewelry...¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression eased a little, and she spoke with a stiff tone, ¡°What¡¯s the difference? Aren¡¯t they all the same!¡±


    It was your Big sister who chose it herself. Can I even refuse? I¡¯m afraid that if I didn¡¯t give it to her, you¡¯ll surely find trouble with meter on!


    Shi Fengju was rendered speechless. But seeing that Sang Wan about to get to bed, Shi Fengju suddenly felt an urge, and he blurted out, ¡°Of course they¡¯re not the same. I bought that hairpin especially for you, and I don¡¯t wish for you to give it to others!¡±


    Sang Wan was startled. Her body stiffened, and she stood on the spot motionlessly. What did he say? He said that he bought it ¡°especially¡± for her? Did she hear wrongly!


    Shi Fengju let out a deep sigh, ¡°Sang Wan, you didn¡¯t hear me wrong. I bought that especially for you. I think that hairpin suits you a lot! But I did not expect you to give it to someone else.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s lips moved slightly, and she said softly, ¡°I, I, Big Sister came today. And the gifts she took were all picked by herself...¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes suddenly became more spirited, and the bad mood seemed to have lightened quite a lot.


    Sang Wan felt somewhat embarrassed and said vaguely, ¡°Nothing! The day is quitete already, so you should rest early, too!¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and asked, ¡°What you mean is that my sister took it on her own ord, and it wasn¡¯t you who presented her with it?¡±


    That hairpin has already been given away, so what need is there to keep pursuing it! But she could only nod.


    The edges of Shi Fengju¡¯s lips rose. His questions seemed to have been on point, and he continued, ¡°Then, do you like that hairpin?¡±


    ¡°...I like.¡± Sang Wan gently nodded again.


    ¡°I understand!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°Since Big Sister has taken it, then so be it. You don¡¯t have to feel any reluctance. Next time, I¡¯ll surely find a better one for you! Now, go to bed early.¡±


    ¡°I will!¡± When had she ever said she was reluctant to give that hairpin away? But since he had already put it that way, she still felt somewhat d. At the very least, wasn¡¯t she now somewhere in his heart?


    On the next day, Lan Xiang came rushing to the main courtyard and quietly searched for Shi Yumei. Anxiously, she eximed, ¡°Eldest Missy, my family¡¯s missy has fallen ill! Nubi does not dare to make such a fuss, but knowing that Eldest Missy is here, nubi built up the courage to seek Eldest Missy¡¯s help on what nubi should do!¡±


    Shi Yumei was anxious after hearing so and answered, ¡°Foolishss! You should hurry and call for the doctor when your missy is ill!¡±


    ¡°But Missy said not to. She doesn¡¯t wish to worry...¡± Lan Xiang gulped as she spoke.


    Shi Yumei frowned, and she followed Lan Xiang to Peony Park. ¡°Go, I¡¯ll follow behind! Why is she getting so scared and careful to such a point!¡± Not daring to tell Sang Wan to invite the doctor even though she¡¯s sick, it seems Sang Wan must have bullied her to such a state!


    Shi Yumei clenched her teeth. That woman really does know how to buy people¡¯s hearts! I was too short-sighted to have almost had a good impression of her yesterday just because of a few pieces of jewelry! A close call it was, or I would have been deceived by that facade!


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face was flushed red. Wearing an ivory gown, shey in bed coughing endlessly. Her hair was held by a hairpin with no effort. Her eyes were red, and herplexion was slightly pale. On sight, she looked pitiful.


    ¡°How did you be like this! Wasn¡¯t there nothing yesterday!¡± Shi Yumei was startled, and she sat on the edge of the bed as she eximed.


    ¡°Cousin Yumei!¡± Gu Fangzi greeted, and her eyes turned slightly moist.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry!¡± Shi Yumei went to embrace her, and gently patted her back before saying softly, ¡°My good sister, don¡¯t be sad! Has it been difficult? I will call for that vicious woman. You¡¯re already ill to such a state and not a single one from her hase!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly pulled Shi Yumei before sobbing, ¡°This isn¡¯t rted to her; it all is Fangzi¡¯s fault. Yesterday night, Fangzi shouldn¡¯t have sat in the courtyard for too long. Now I¡¯ve caught a cold. I don¡¯t know how, but I sat there all night without knowing, and when morning came, I felt this throbbing headache and couldn¡¯t get out of bed... I¡¯ve troubled Cousin Yumei again!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault, too,¡± Shi Yumei could not help but feel slightly remorseful, she and sighed, ¡°Yesterday night, I should have thought about you ande over to keep youpany!¡±


    Gu Fangzi hurriedly revealed a smile. ¡°Cousin Yumei, what are you saying! It has been difficult for you to return to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, so you should use that time to stay with Aunt and be filial to her! Even if you came, Fangzi will surely not wee it!¡±


    That makes sense, Shi Yumei thought and nodded before feeling even more frustrated at Sang Wan. ¡°It¡¯s one thing for us, but for Sang Wan, how can she note and see you! Is this how the wife is supposed to take care of those around Fengju? Just how did the Sang family teach their daughter!¡±


    ¡°Sister has been busy with preparing for the festival, so she must have been very busy and tired! Cousin Yumei, you shouldn¡¯t me her! In the end, it is Fangzi¡¯s fault for being hungry for some moonlight...¡±


    ¡°You ah!¡± Shi Yumei could not help but sigh before saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry! In the future, this must not go on! There¡¯s me here now! Ai, also, did Fengju note and see you yesterday?¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s words poked at Gu Fangzi in her sore spot. With an awkward look, she was barely able to force a smile as she replied, ¡°Big Cousin, I¡¯m sure he¡¯s busy... but Fangzi knows that Fangzi is still in his heart! Knowing that... is enough...¡±


    Shi Yumei suddenly remembered Shi Fengju returningte in the evening to settle her husband¡¯s business! Feeling guilty, she let out a cough and stopped heading deeper into the topic. She looked at Gu Fangzi before smiling, and sheforted, ¡°That¡¯s right, you and my brother have such a long rtionship, and he has always treated you well. This bond cannot bepared to anything else! It¡¯s enough that you understand him!¡± With that, she then red at Lan Xiang and scolded, ¡°Foolish servant, why are you still standing here for? Go and call for the doctor! Don¡¯t you see that your missy isn¡¯t feeling well!¡±


    Lan Xiang quickly gave Gu Fangzi a nce. Swiftly, sheplied and hurriedly left.


    Shi Yumei then continued tofort Gu Fangzi.


    Gu Fangzi could only cheer up and smile gratefully at Shi Yumei, but her heart was secretly disappointed. She had wanted to use a roundabout method to secretly hint to Shi Yumei, so that she would often remind Shi Fengju to visit her more often. But who knew that before she could do so, she was stopped.


    Lan Xiang hurried to the small garden and notified Sang Wan. Sang Wan went and instructed a servant to invite a doctor while she went off to Peony Park personally to have a look.


    ¡°Younger Sister, are you ill? Is it very serious?¡± Sang Wan entered and asked with concern.


    ¡°Oh, Sister, you¡¯re here!¡± Gu Fangzi struggled to get up, expressing awe and surprise on her face.


    ¡°Younger Sister, you shouldn¡¯t get up!¡± Watching her pretentious manner, Sang Wan sneered and went along with the act. She went up a few steps and stopped her before speaking with remorse, ¡°Because of my negligence, Younger Sister has fallen ill!¡±


    ¡°So you do know ah!¡± Shi Yumei said coldly, ¡°As Fengju¡¯s wife, you should show more virtue! Fangzi iswfully his concubine, so is this how you should take care of her? Moreover, she¡¯s my mother¡¯s niece. If you continue to do so, I¡¯m afraid that when my mother starts to me you, you might not be able to handle it!¡±


    ¡°It is indeed my negligence!¡± Sang Wan lowered her head, but seeing Lan Xiang standing at the side, she went on, ¡°And as for you, is this how you serve your missy? The night breeze is chilly, so how could you let your missy catch a cold in the courtyard? Your missy is still in her period of mourning when she will not be in the mood to take care of her body? Even if you couldn¡¯t stop her, you should have brought her extra clothes to wear! You¡¯ve followed your missy for so many years, and there I thought you¡¯d be careful, but who knew you¡¯d be this careless! Younger Sister ah, do you want to choose over your servants?


    Lan Xiang secretly cried bitterly to herself and was already on her knees, acknowledging her mistake. Gu Fangzi and Shi Yumei were both stunned by Sang Wan¡¯s words and were unable to refute.


    ¡°Thank you Sister for you concern!¡± Gu Fangzi coughed before saying gratefully, ¡°Sister is already busy day in and day out with the household affairs, so there¡¯s no need for Sister to worry about things here! Yesterday was entirely my fault, it has nothing to do with Lan Xiang! She¡¯s very good and is very useful, and there¡¯s also no need to add to the number of servants here!¡±


    Add? Gu Fangzi sneered in her heart, Sure enough, the vixen¡¯s tail is exposed. Do you think you can add spies into my courtyard! As if I¡¯d let you!


    ¡°Younger Sister ah,¡± Sang Wan cast a nce at Shi Yumei. You heard it, she admitted that it was all her responsibility and that this has nothing to do with me! There¡¯s no way I can keep having my eyes on her! With a smile, she continued, ¡°You¡¯re already an adult, so how can you be so willful! Besides, that body is yours! If you fall ill, you yourself will suffer, and others would surely be distressed! In the future, don¡¯t do it again!¡±


    Turning to Lan Xiang, she smiled and apologized, ¡°You¡¯re a goodss. It is me who has wronged you! You¡¯re loyal and will not try to offer any exnations! I¡¯ve truly wronged you!¡±


    ¡°Nubi doesn¡¯t dare!¡± Lan Xiang bowed and responded before she gently stood at a side.


    Since Gu Fangzi had already said so, Shi Yumei was no longer able to put any of her ideas to use, and she snorted.


    Not long after, the doctor arrived. After a quick diagnosis, he said that it was just a cold, and there was no need to worry. He took out two doses of medicine and told a servant to decoct it before serving it to the patient before reminding her not to expose herself to the chilly night breeze again. In a day or two, she would recover.


    Sang Wan ordered a servant to see the doctor out before instructing Lan Xiang, ¡°Although the doctor said not to worry, this medicine is for your missy to take, and I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be careful with them! Now go take the medicine. Don¡¯t bezy and boil the medicine before serving it to your missy! If something goes wrong, even if your missy were to spare you, I will not! Now go!¡±


    Lan Xiang cast a nce at Gu Fangzi. Seeing that Gu Fangzi was too sick to notice her gaze, she softly answered before taking the medicine.


    Deep down, Gu Fangzi was frustrated because she had originally wanted to tamper with the medicine. But Sang Wan had already made it clear with Shi Yumei that the full responsibility fell upon Lan Xiang. Clearly, Sang Wan was wary of her, as well as warning her.

 Chapter 92: The Impolite Brother-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 92: The Impolite Brother-inw</h4>


    ¡°That¡¯s very thoughtful of Sister!¡± Gu Fangzi said gratefully, but she was secretly mocking Sang Wan deep down.


    ¡°That is a given, of course. Younger Sister, please take good care of yourself! If there¡¯s anything you need, do tell me!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Shi Yumei grunted coldly, ¡°What¡¯s the use of telling you? She might as well tell my second brother! Oh right, don¡¯t forget to tell him that Fangzi is ill when he gets home. He should at leaste and see her once in a while!¡±


    Sang Wan felt slightly unhappy. ¡°Big Sister, don¡¯t worry. Sir will surely know of it!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you to inform him!¡± Shi Yumei said. True enough, her true face was exposed and could no longer hide her jealousy ah!


    ¡°That is your duty as his wife!¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Sang Wan nodded.


    ¡°Sister, I think you should go back. I¡¯m fine here! I can¡¯t always bother Sister and dy Sister from your work!¡± Seeing that Shi Yumei finally said something that was spot on, Gu Fangzi was extremely pleased deep down, and her eyes glistened beautifully.


    ¡°Yes ah! Younger Sister-inw, you should hurry along with your work! I¡¯ll apany Fangzi!¡± And Shi Yumei inadvertently asked, ¡°Oh yes, would Younger Sister-inw mind telling me the preparation status for Banana Courtyard? I still have to trouble Younger Sister-inw about it!¡±


    Sang Wan almost wanted to burst outughing. It hasn¡¯t been a day since the Mid-Autumn Festival, and Big Sister is already in such a hurry!


    ¡°I¡¯ve already passed the instructions to the servants. They¡¯ll begin tidying the ce tomorrow! After that, I¡¯ll have to invite Big Sister along to have a look!¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Younger Sister-inw sure is capable! Big Sister shall give her thanks to Younger Sister-inw!¡± Shi Yumei was somewhat startled. She had not expected Sang Wan to be this effective in her work.


    ¡°Big Sister, you¡¯re wee!¡± Sang Wan smiled before taking her leave.


    ¡°Cousin Yumei, you¡¯ll be moving in? Congrattions ah, congrattions!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly smiled, but then sighed all of a sudden, ¡°A pity. If only I could gift Cousin Yumei things to put on disy like the past, but...¡±


    ¡°Shi Yumei smiled coldly. ¡°You don¡¯t have to feel remorseful. You may not have much, but that certain someone is sure to have a lot! Let¡¯s see if she even looks up to me and is willing to part with some of her things!¡±


    Gu Fangzi earnestly wished Shi Yumei would empty the small garden, and she smiled and said, ¡°That goes without saying! Big Cousin has always cared for Cousin Yumei the most. You can just go over and take whatever you want! Big Cousin will surely give it to you!¡±


    ¡°Oh, but that won¡¯t be good, right? The one managing the household isn¡¯t Fengju!¡± Shi Yumei smiled.


    ¡°So what! Big Cousin is still the true head of the family!¡± said Gu Fangzi. The twoughed as their eyes met.


    At night, Sang Wan briefly told Shi Fengju about Gu Fangzi during dinner, ¡°Younger Sister has a cold because of yesterday. Today, I had a doctor diagnose her. Your sister was also around, and she asked why you didn¡¯t go there to see her.¡±


    Shi Fengju frowned, and he asked without even raising his head, ¡°What did the doctor say?¡±


    ¡°He said it isn¡¯t serious. He prescribed some medicine, and I assigned Lan Xiang to be the one responsible in serving the medicine.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shi Fengju then went silent.


    After a short while, Sang Wan smiled again and said, ¡°Oh right, I¡¯ve already instructed the servants to tidy up Banana Courtyard. I think that since Big Sister and Brother-inw will be staying there for long, it has to be up to their standards. I¡¯ve already invited Big Sister toe along with me the following day to say her opinions on how she would like the ce to be decorated before I have the servants do as follows. But after some thought, asking Big Sister for her opinions might cause her husband to have second thoughts. So why don¡¯t youe along with me tomorrow, and we¡¯ll have Brother-inwe, too! That way, the two of them can discuss among themselves!¡±


    Shi Fengju raised his head to look at her before smiling and saying, ¡°That¡¯s very thoughtful of you. Okay, I¡¯ll be home the following day!¡±


    Sang Wan secretly let out a sigh of relief. It¡¯s good to have you around. At least you¡¯ll be there to make sure they don¡¯t step over the line, and I can just stand at the side and remember all the preparations needed!


    Recalling how Shi Yumei was inexplicably hostile towards her, Sang Wan¡¯s head ached.


    ¡°Then that¡¯s settled!¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°Big Sister also requested for me to treat them to a meal once they¡¯ve moved into Banana Courtyard! I don¡¯t know what she likes to eat, but I said that I¡¯ll be sure to do so. Still, she¡¯s your sister, so I should still find out what she likes! I think that you might know what her preferences are.¡±


    ¡°My sister is asking you for too much!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and shook his head. After thinking for a brief moment, he smiled and answered, ¡°This season is the best to have crabs. How about this. When that timees, I¡¯ll have someone deliver tworge baskets of crabs. You can invite Mother and Second Aunt along, too! As for the wine, the aged chrysanthemum wine will be good. It has a sweet scent and taste, but it won¡¯t be easy to get drunk over it. I¡¯ll have a servant send that as well. As for the other dishes, just preparing a fewplementary dishes will be fine!¡±


    Sang Wan was d, and she quickly eximed, ¡°Then we¡¯ll go with it. When your sister and I have settled for a date, I¡¯ll tell you about it.¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Watching her as her eyes glistened when she smiled, Shi Fengju could not help but feel a sense of happiness deep down, and he blurted out, ¡°You¡¯ve been working hard these few days. Once Big Sis has settled down, I¡¯ll take you to my country farm to rx for a few days!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes were on the dishes as she remained silent.


    On the following day, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju invited the other two before heading to Banana Courtyard together. The moment when Shi Yumei saw Shi Fengju, she frowned slightly before casting a nce at Sang Wan. She then asked, ¡°Second Brother, how can I trouble you for something this minor? You should return to whatever you¡¯re busy with! We¡¯re a family, so there¡¯s no need for you to pay so much attention to me!¡±


    Shi Fengju then exined the reason which Sang Wan had given him beforehand, and hearing him so, Shi Yumei went silent. But Ren Zhixian seemed to have taken much interest with those words, and he red at his wife before speaking calmly, ¡°Fengju is indeed thoughtful! The study room is not something women understand at all!¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but roll his eyes discreetly before gesturing for them to enter the courtyard and acting as if he had not heard him.


    With Shi Fengju around, Shi Yumei could not be fussy at all. The decorations for the living room, the partitioned room, chamber, bathroom, and side rooms were discussed very quickly. Shi Yumei half-heartedly smiled at Sang Wan and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble Younger Sister-inw for the arrangements! I also do want to go pick a few disys with Younger Sister-inw...¡±


    Sang Wan quickly agreed, and Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°Big Sis, when that timees, just have Sang Wan open the storage room for you to pick a few paintings, tea sets, and antiques! If there isn¡¯t anything you like, then I can have someone buy those that you¡¯d like!¡±


    Shi Yumei smiled. ¡°Then if I want a few things from your house, will you give them to me?¡±


    ¡°I will, why not!¡± Shi Fengju quickly gave a nce at Sang Wan and could only say so.


    Shi Yumei only said that without much thought, but seeing how Shi Fengju had to look at Sang Wan first before agreeing, she felt somewhat ufortable. That made her think that she should just pick a few things that Sangss likes a lot!


    When they came to the study room, that¡¯s where the trouble began.


    The study room was the east-wing room located at the right side, with the courtyard right outside of it. Consisting of four partitioned rooms, it was spacious and allowed lots of light in.


    Ren Zhixian looked at it with his arms behind his back. He imed that the building was slightly narrow and should have all the partitions taken down. By the wall, arge bookshelf should be there, and the decorative window should be changed to a circr window with a bamboo curtain hung over it. In front of the window, a couch or bed should be ced there, and right outside the window, two plum trees should be moved and nted there, together with a few bamboos. And right by the bamboos, there should be a pile of rocks...


    After that, he began to give even more requests, saying how high the desk should be, howrge and beautiful the hung painting should be, where the incense burner should be ced, the four schrly treasures that he needed, and many others. Finally, he concluded, ¡°Furniture matching the building will make the entire view blend together seamlessly. Only then will the study room look beautiful and elegant to the eyes!¡±


    Before Ren Zhixian even finished with his requests, Shi Fengju¡¯s expression had already changed numerous times! Does this person even know how to write those words? Just who does he think he is ah!


    ¡°Brother-inw, to make all these changes, I¡¯m afraid it will take almost half a year toplete. Brother-inw, during that period, what do you n to do?¡± Shi Fengju asked with a faint smile.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Ren Zhixian said without shame, ¡°I can just put up with it for a while!¡± He then added, thinking that he was already being extremely generous already, ¡°Just take your time. I¡¯m also doing this for the Shi family¡¯s sake! With such an elegant study room, if any of your family¡¯s young masters wishes to use this room, they can! This is what a real study room should look like!¡±


    In other words, he was implying that only someone like him who came from a literary family knew how to decorate a study room. You people who reek of money, do you even know?


    Shi Fengju almost wanted to let out augh. Havinge across someone like him, he must think that getting him angry should be something they should be grateful for!


    ¡°Yes ah, Brother-inw is truly a knowledgeable person, a real schr. This has really let me open my eyes! Where can our Shi familypare with your Ren family? En, but in the eyes of a businessman, I think that this isn¡¯t worthwhile to do so! In any case, it won¡¯t be used in the future, so it¡¯ll only be a waste of money!¡±


    Shi Fengju saw Ren Zhixian¡¯s mouth move, almost wanting to say something like ¡°How dare you, you imbecile!¡± or words with simr meaning, but he interrupted by adding on, ¡°Why don¡¯t we do it like the way I think we should! I mean, it won¡¯t be used by us in the future, and I don¡¯t wish to waste any money. As long as Brother-inw isfortable, I¡¯m sure it should be fine! Then, should we just follow the way Brother-inw¡¯s study room used to be? That way, Brother-inw will be more used to it. What does Brother-inw think?¡±


    Ren Zhixian was suddenly at a loss for words, and his face was slightly red and pale.


    His house¡¯s study room? When his parents were still alive four or five years ago, that room looked more like a study room, but two to three years ago, did it even look like a study room? It looked more like a misceny room!


    Seeing her husband unable to refute, Shi Yumei quickly tried to close the topic, ¡°Second Brother ah, my husband is only thinking for our good mah! By decorating this study room, it can then be used in the future. Why don¡¯t¡ª¡±


    ¡°Big Sis! It¡¯s still too early!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°When my child does have a need for a study room, it¡¯ll only be seven to eight yearster. By then, I¡¯m afraid the study room will be too old and will have to be rebuilt!¡±

 Chapter 93: I’m Doing So For The Good of The Shi Family

    <h4>Chapter 93: I¡¯m Doing So For The Good of The Shi Family</h4>


    Ren Zhixian spoke with a stern face, ¡°Yumei is right. I¡¯m doing this for the good of your Shi family! Since you do not see a need for it, then forget it! Just do as you deem fit!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was feeling displeased, and he thought to himself, Like a dog biting its master¡¯s hand. I am willing to take the time to give my ideas on how the study room should be arranged today because I¡¯m in a good mood, and all of you are lucky enough to be able to listen to it! What does your family even know about arranging and decorating a study room? Hmph! No wonder; for a family who could not produce a schr for so many generations, what do you know? All your eyes only see money!


    Shi Fengju was annoyed at him for having no sense of urgency. He wasn¡¯t going to let this person off so easily, and he acted as if he could not understand his expression. With a gentle smile, he spoke with full sincerity, ¡°How can I do that! Brother-inw, you shouldn¡¯t say that ah, this study room will be used by you. If you don¡¯t partake in the decorations and arrangements, it¡¯ll really put me in a difficult position! After all, we are not people who understand this as much as you. If you don¡¯t give your views, then I can only instruct someone to decorate and arrange the study room ording to how your old one looked before!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was so furious that he became speechless.


    Shi Fengju smiled again. ¡°How about this? When theyout is being produced, Brother-inw can be at the side to give your opinion. If you think it¡¯s fine, then so be it. But if you think otherwise, then we can still discuss again together.What do you think?¡±


    ¡°I think that¡¯ll be great!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and nodded.


    The anger in Ren Zhixian still did not dissipate. Great? How is that great? Can I even say otherwise? If I were to say otherwise, then he will surely bring up my house¡ª


    Deep down, Ren Zhixian was frustrated at Shi Fengju for relying on power to bully him. How he wished he could straighten his back and act all haughty, but thinking about his current situation where he even had to rely on others to provide his ink and brush, there was no way he could do so, and he could only nod carelessly, ¡°Fine!¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s settled!¡± SHi Fengju smiled and continued, ¡°If Brother-inw has any opinions, just voice them out. I¡¯ll be sure to satisfy you, so that your mood to study won¡¯t be affected!¡±


    Ren Zhixian let out a soft grunt. After leaving the study room, his eyes were fixed on the banana tree and bamboos at the center of the courtyard as he pointed at them. ¡°That banana tree is thick, and that bamboo is blocking the light from entering the study room. Have someone cut them down tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡± Shi Fengju seemed to not mind. ¡°Cut it is. I¡¯ll have someone cut them down tomorrow! Does Brother-inw want me to have two plum trees nted there instead?¡±


    Ren Zhixian wanted to refuse, but he hesitated for a moment before nodding, ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble you!¡±


    ¡°Brother-inw, there¡¯s no need to be so polite!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°Brother-inw wants grown plum trees, right? I¡¯m not too sure if we have any in our household! But that doesn¡¯t matter, there¡¯s sure to be some in Qingzhou. We¡¯ll just buy them!¡±


    His tone was like that of a filthy rich person unting all the money he had.


    The world in front of Ren Zhixian seemed to spin, and he almost staggered from those words. His heart was feeling jealous and unhappy, and he secretly scolded the heavens. How could an ordinary person be living in riches while a schr like him had to suffer from poverty! He even had to rely on others and be under their mercy!


    Sang Wan watched this spectacr sight, and she sighed as she thanked the heavens! Fortunately, she was able to bring Shi Fengju along. Otherwise, how would she be able to deal with this!


    She could not help but cast a nce at Shi Fengju before thinking to herself. Having such a brother-inw, no wonder he felt disgusted at me for being from a literary family. This really is¡ª


    ¡°Second brother ah, you aren¡¯t going anywhere else today, right?¡± After leaving Banana Courtyard, Shi Yumei suddenly stopped Shi Fengju.


    Shi Fengju raised a brow and asked, ¡°Does Big Sis still have something else?¡±


    Shi Yumei smiled as she invited, ¡°If you are free today, why don¡¯t we head to Peony Park together? Come to think of it, it has been long since you, me, and Cousin Fangzi ever had a good chat together!¡±


    Sang Wan cried bitterly in her heart, and her eyes dimmed a little. She acted as if she had not heard what Shi Yumei said.


    ¡°I think not,¡± Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°I am going back to prepare before leaving! Big Sis, I think you should go by yourself instead! Fangzi is still in her period of mourning, so Big Sis, you should go and see her, but don¡¯t stay there for too long.¡±


    ¡°What does it matter!¡± Shi Yumei smiled. ¡°What¡¯s important is mourning from the heart! Spending the day alone in Peony Park, Fangzi is very pitiful, so why can¡¯t we visit her often! Else how will she be able to mourn for half a year with no one to care about her!¡±


    Shi Fengju suddenly frowned. Just what is she ying at? No one to care for her? Has shecked anything to eat or anything to wear? As if there¡¯s a need for people to be around her all day before her days can pass! Moreover...


    ¡°Half a year?¡± Feeling doubtful, Shi Fengju asked. Doesn¡¯t she have to mourn for three whole years to be filial?


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Shi Yumei found it surprising and exined how Gu Fangzi went to the temple and how she dreamt about Gu Jin. She also exined about the paper given by the priest before scolding Shi Fengju, ¡°How can you not care about her and even not know about this! What¡ªyou didn¡¯t go and see herst night?¡±


    As she spoke, she nced skeptically at Sang Wan.


    Shi Fengju followed her gaze before saying with a stern expression, ¡°It was alreadytest night, so I didn¡¯t go. Sang Wan has already told me that she had seen the doctor and was told to rest! As if I have so much free time to always be around her!¡± Excusing himself saying that he was busy, he then pulled Sang Wan along with him.


    Half a year of mourning? Shi Fengju sneered coldly. Only she can make things seem pompous yet earnest!


    She has always been a clever person! Shi Fengju could not help but sigh to himself. It was a pity that her intelligence was used in the wrong area.


    Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian wanted to move into Banana Courtyard as soon as possible, and everyday, they would eagerly head there to see its progress. After seven days, Banana Courtyard was finally arranged and decorated, and the two were prepared to move in in two days¡¯ time.


    Sure enough, Shi Yumei went to the small garden to find Sang Wan before picking a few vases, paintings, and stuff. Sang Wan never had an eye for those things, and she let her have them without any second thoughts.


    When Shi Fengju saw what was missing, he felt apologetic andforted Sang Wan, telling her that he would make another purchase for those things that were taken away. Sang Wan smiled and said nothing more.


    On the day when Shi Yumei moved in, Gu Fangzi could not be present, but she sent Lan Xiang on her behalf to give her congrattions as well as other auspicious words.


    But that wasn¡¯t the sole purpose of Lan Xiang presence. Her most important reason was that Lan Xiang was finally able to hold back Shi Fengju.


    These few days, Shi Fengju had never taken a step into Peony Park, and Gu Fangzi was getting anxious. All she heard from Shi Yumei was that Shi Fengju was very busy. But Gu Fangzi knew, even though those words could trick Shi Yumei, they could not trick her. If he really had the heart to, there was no way he couldn¡¯t find time to see her!


    Hearing Shi Yumei giving the same response numerous times, she was of no help to her. And so, she could only use her only card: To use Lan Xiang to invite him over!


    Although Lan Xiang had gone to invite him, she was nothing but a servant. Shi Fengju wouldn¡¯t even bother to follow her, but there was no way she could just abduct him to Peony Park!


    But today was different. In front of Shi Yumei, Lan Xiang stopped Shi Fengju before saying pitifully, ¡°Young Master, if you have the time, please go and see my missy! She has been thinking a lot about you!¡±


    Shi Fengju extremely disliked those words. How could a woman in her mourning period not mourn properly but have another man in her heart. Even though that man was him, he did not feel happy at all. Rather, he was feeling the opposite.


    Hearing so, Shi Yumei quickly added, ¡°Seriously, you should go and see Fangzi! Every time I tell you to do so, you are always busy running off somewhere! But today, no matter what you say, you must still go over and see her! Fangzi really is pitiful!¡± As she said that, she cast a nce at Sang Wan. ¡°You weren¡¯t like this in the past. Did someone say something at your back?¡±


    Sang Wan acted as if she had not heard so, and she instructed the servants to be careful when carrying the items into the house.


    ¡°Big Sis!¡± Shi Fengju frowned. ¡°Is your younger brother someone who cannot make decisions on his own? Who can tell me what to do? And who can make the decision for me?¡±


    He secretly said to himself, The ones who are actually trying to decide for me are none other than you and that damn good cousin!


    ¡°Ah, that¡¯s right! My younger brother isn¡¯t foolish!¡± Shi Yumei smiled to herself before urging, ¡°Your Big Sister¡¯s ce is still a mess, so I won¡¯t keep you here. So go, quickly!¡±


    Shi Fengju felt utterly helpless. If he didn¡¯t go, then she would surely nag at him for who knew how long. Forget it, might as well then!


    He turned and left with a long face.


    Lan Xiang was extremely ted. She bowed and gave her thanks to Shi Yumei before hurrying off to catch up with Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Missy! Missy! Young Master hase to see you!¡± Shortly after arriving, Lan Xiang announced loudly.


    Inside the house, Gu Fangzi was excited, and she quickly got herself dressed before going out to wee him.


    ¡°Big Cousin!¡± Gu Fangzi gazed at Shi Fengju passionately. ¡°You, you¡¯ve finallye to see me.¡±


    ¡°How are you feeling? Is everything fine!¡± Shi Fengju did his best to make sure his tone did not sound impatient and hostile as he walked into the house.


    After thinking carefully, it hadn¡¯t been long since hest saw her. But at this point, as she stood in front of him, he could not help but feel that she was an entire stranger to him, and his heart did not flutter. It was just like meeting someone who had no rtions with him at all.


    To think that he had actually married her as his concubine, Shi Fengju suddenly felt chilly and frustrated.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er is doing fine. Thank you, Big Cousin, for your concern!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly ushered him to a seat before smiling gently. ¡°These few days, I have to thank Cousin Yumei for apanying Fang¡¯er! Just thinking about the past when the three of us would sit together to talk, those times really make me happy! It¡¯s so great that Cousin Yumei will now be staying with us! In the future, the three of us can be like in the past, we can¡ª¡±


    ¡°Even though Big Sis will be staying with us, she is still the Ren family¡¯s daughter-inw. She has to serve her husband, so there¡¯s no way things will be the same as before!¡± Shi Fengju was even more displeased when she brought up the past.


    ¡°Big Cousin is right!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s mood today was extremely positive. She did not refute him after hearing his words, and instead admitted her wrong, ¡°It was foolish of me! Not just Cousin Yumei, you and I are no longer the same, too. We¡¯re finally... together! All these years have finallye to fruit. Big Cousin¡¯s feelings towards me truly have not changed! Fang¡¯er really is d!¡±


    At this moment, Lan Xiang was present to serve them tea, but she quickly retreated.

 Chapter 94: Shameless

    <h4>Chapter 94: Shameless</h4>


    Gu Fangzi looked at the handsome man in front of her¡ªthe man who had loved her for many years. The more she looked at him, the happier she got. Unable to hold herself back, she poured a cup of tea and handed it to Shi Fengju. ¡°Big Cousin, have some tea.¡±


    Shi Fengju looked at her in the eye and was about to receive the cup. Little did he realize that the woman in front of him was being extremely flirtatious towards him.


    ¡°Big Cousin! Fengju,¡± Gu Fangzi was not willing to let go of the cup, and the back of her smooth hand gently rubbed against Shi Fengju¡¯s hand before saying seductively, ¡°I miss you so much, did you¡ª Ah!¡±


    ¡°Miss me?¡±; before those two words could leave her mouth, Shi Fengju already retracted his arm angrily. That force caused Gu Fangzi to fall back, and the cup of hot tea scalded her hand. That excruciating pain made her release her grip on the cup, and it shattered on the floor.


    ¡°Fengju!¡± Gu Fangzi was upset, and she rubbed her scalded hand with her other hand as tears fell from her eyes.


    Shi Fengju stood up and frowned at her. ¡°You should just stick with calling me your cousin! Call Lan Xiang in to attend to your wound. I still have things to do, so I¡¯ll be going first!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go!¡± Having hime over was already difficult. As if she¡¯d be willing to see him leave so soon! If not for her mourning period, she would be looking around to find him often!


    She quickly rushed behind him and hugged him tightly as she nestled her face at his back before weeping, ¡°Big Cousin, Big Cousin, please stay with me for a little while longer! Don¡¯t go! Big Cousin, I know you love me, so how can you treat me like this? Have, have I done something that made you unhappy? Big Cousin, tell me, I¡¯ll change! I¡¯ll change, alright!¡±


    ¡°Fangzi, let go!¡± Shi Fengju forcefully broke free before taking a few steps back. ¡°Fangzi, do not forget what I said to you before. Remember your position.¡±


    ¡°I will, I¡¯ve never forgotten about that!¡± Gu Fangzi sobbed, ¡°You are mine, and I am your woman. How can I forget that!¡±


    There was utterly no way ofmunicating with her!


    Shi Fengju could not help but admit a fact. How did he and she end up to this stage?


    Big Sis¡¯s deliberate hostility towards Sang Wan must have been instigated by Fangzi. Saying things like ¡°the three of them in the past¡±, he, Shi Fengju, wasn¡¯t foolish. If not for someone instigating things from behind, his sister would never do such a thing!


    Even if his big sister was against the marriage between the Sang family and the Shi family, she still valued him the most. As long as the other party was the one he liked, she would like her too. But, his big sister just didn¡¯t like Sang Wan!


    Seeing that Shi Fengju was remaining silent, her expression was now something that even she had never seen before. Her entire mind was spinning, and sheunched herself at Shi Fengju before hugging him tightly once again. She lifted her head to look at his neck, and she said, ¡°Big Cousin, I¡¯ll give it you. I¡¯ll give it to you, okay?... We can be a couple, an actual couple, we¡ª¡±


    ¡°Gu Fangzi!¡± Shi Fengju raged at her and pushed her away. Disgusted, he raised his sleeve to wipe his face and neck before saying coldly, ¡°What are you getting crazy for!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not crazy, I¡¯m serious!¡± Gu Fangzi sobbed, ¡°Big Cousin, you said before that the one you wished to marry was me, me ah! And I don¡¯t have anyone else except you in my heart! Big Cousin, we¡¯ll be together in the end, won¡¯t we?¡±


    While saying that, she gradually undid her clothes.


    ¡°If you want to be crazy, then be crazy by yourself!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s re was col., ¡°A woman acting all flirtatious during her mourning period, why don¡¯t you give some thoughts to your father above! Even I feel ashamed by your behavior today!¡±


    Shi Fengju grunted coldly before leaving in big strides.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face turned as pale as snow. Her legs gave in, and she fell onto the floor. She clung onto a chair¡¯s leg powerlessly and nibbled hatefully at her lips. Closing her eyes forcefully, the tears fell steadily.


    Gu Fangzi cried quietly. Her thin shoulders trembled violently, like the leaves falling in the autumn wind.


    He said he felt ashamed! That was what he said, that was what he said to her! Gu Fangzi shook her head in disbelief. That man used to embrace her and say she was the only one for him. Today, he had pushed her and scolded her for not knowing any shame!


    ¡°Sang Wan! Sang Wan!¡± Gu Fangzi clenched her teeth ferociously, and her eyes were filled entirely with burning hatre., ¡°It¡¯s all because of you, all because of you!¡± I¡¯ll definitely make your life miserable!


    ¡°Missy!¡± Seeing her missy sobbing on the floor with a face full of shock the moment she entered, Lan Xiang quickly ran up to her to help her up. ¡°Missy, what happened to you!¡±


    ¡°Scram!¡± Gu Fangzi pushed Lan Xiang away. She wiped away her tears and choked out each word one at a time, ¡°I will pick myself up! I will pick myself up!¡±


    Big Cousin, you will regret this. You¡¯ll regret doing this to me today!


    Shi Fengju left Peony Park angrily and swiftly returned to the small garden.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the ma¡¯am?¡± not seeing Sang Wan, he asked.


    His face was extremely dark and scary, and his words were extremely rushed. The servants were frightened by the sight of their young master. Just who had made the young master so furious to such a point.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am... went, went to the storehouse...¡± Hong Ye carefully went up and answered.


    ¡°Call her back!¡± Shi Fengju raised a brow coldly. ¡°What are you still standing there for? Go!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes Sir!¡± Hong Ye jumped from the fright. She did not wait to instruct a servant to do so, and she personally fled to call for Sang Wan.


    After hearing the exnation from Hong Ye, Sang Wan did not dare to return slowly. She quickly gave her instructions to Nanny Li before hurrying back. On the way back, she thought to herself, Don¡¯t tell me that Gu Fangziined to him about me? Then so be it. After all, I¡¯ve done nothing wrong, and there¡¯s nothing to hide! Whatever he asks, I¡¯ll just answer honestly.


    Shi Fengju was by himself in the partitioned room. The atmosphere was extremely heavy, and the servants did not dare to go in to serve him. Every one of them stuck their neck out, gazing at the gate entrance asionally.


    When Sang Wan returned, the crowd finally heaved a sigh of relief.


    After being sure that Shi Fengju was inside, Sang Wan took a deep breath in before entering.


    Before she could speak, she heard Shi Fengju snapping from the other side, ¡°Go away! Where¡¯s Ma¡¯am? She isn¡¯t back yet?¡±


    It seems he really is furious! Sang Wan¡¯s heart could not help but groan, and she was secretly amazed at Gu Fangzi. Just what did shein this time around that seemed so effective!


    ¡°Sir, it¡¯s me!¡± Sang Wan said gently before walking up to him, ¡°Is there something?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Shi Fengju was startled, and his dark expression seemed to have rxed a little. He quickly stood up and apologized with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re back. Sorry, I didn¡¯t know it was you!¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Sang Wan was slightly surprised, and she blinked a few times before shaking her head. ¡°It¡¯s alright! What did Sir call me for so anxiously¡ª¡±


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°I just wanted to¡ª¡± He wanted to say ¡°I just wanted to see you,¡± but he knew it would surely sound weird, so he quickly changed his words, ¡°I just wanted to ask, en, have you and Big Sis settled on a date to have crabs? That way, I can have the servants prepare in advance.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sang Wan was utterly speechless. His entire face was dark, and he was roaring at the servants, all just for this?


    ¡°There really isn¡¯t anything else! I just wanted to ask about it.¡± Shi Fengju forced a smile. Even he himself could feel that he was acting weird. But after leaving Peony Park, he just wanted to see her, eagerly and anxiously! He almost felt as if the moment he saw her, the waves in his heart would finally calm down.


    Those words sounded outrageous, and Sang Wan found them hard to believe. However, since he wasn¡¯t going to tell her, then she would not let her curiosity get the better of her. If he doesn¡¯t want to say anything, then it was for the best!


    ¡°Not yet!¡±Sang Wan smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll ask Mother and Sister-inw today. Once we¡¯ve settled for a date, I¡¯ll tell you.¡±


    ¡°En, okay!¡± Seeing that she so easily believed him without asking any further, his heart was somewhat disappointed. For a moment, he was unsure of what to say. All he felt was a sense of depression! Having lived this long, this was the first time he had ever felt so!


    ¡°Sir, yourplexion doesn¡¯t seem too good. Is something the matter?¡± Sang Wan finally asked out of duty.


    Shi Fengju finally rxed and shook his head. ¡°Nothing much, just that my heart doesn¡¯t feel too well. Will you apany me out for a stroll?¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback. After some thought, she said, ¡°Your sister just happened to send a servant to inform me that she would want some bonsai in her yard. I don¡¯t really know about these things, so why don¡¯t youe with me to pick some?¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and joked, ¡°You don¡¯t know? You¡¯re an elegant person, are you sure you don¡¯t know!¡±


    Sang Wan became annoyed at him forughing. ¡°Hey! Don¡¯t make fun of me, I¡¯m the most inelegant one. The real elegant person lives in Banana Courtyard!¡±


    [TL: This is the joke, they¡¯re making fun of someone]


    The two looked at each other, and theyughed.


    But that made Sang Wan slightly remorseful for being careless. In Banana Courtyard not only lived Big Brother-inw but also Big Sister, and they were their seniors. What they said was slightly overboard, and Sang Wan quickly stopped herself fromughing. ¡°So, will youe along? If you won¡¯t, then I¡¯ll go by myself!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go, I¡¯ll go!¡± It was rare for her to invite him. Even if she was doing so reluctantly, it was a chance for him to be with her, so there was no way he would refuse!


    Shortly after the two left the small garden, they saw Nanny Li rushing back. She reported that the things instructed to her had been sent to Banana Courtyard before taking a good look at Shi Fengju¡¯s expression. Seeing that nothing seemed amiss, she was finally at ease, and she smiled as she followed them.


    Sang Wan and Shi Fengju then went to Songfeng Garden, where the bonsais were made especially from Fuzhong. They picked five and ordered a servant to send those to Banana Garden.


    Shi Yumei heard that the bonsais were picked by her own young brother, and she became speechless. She couldn¡¯t help but mutter under her breath, That Sangss really is capable. For a matter this minor, she even dragged my brother along! But on second thought, it also means that my brother cares a lot for her, does it not? At this moment, Shi Yumei was unsure whether to be happy for frustrated.


    The next morning, Shi Yumei went to Peony Park to see Gu Fangzi. ¡°Yesterday, did Shi Fengjue and see you?¡± Shi Yumei asked.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s body stiffened slightly, but she smiled shyly. ¡°En.¡± She nodded gently and said, ¡°Big Cousin apanied me for a while, but because of my current state, I couldn¡¯t make him stay for long, so I let him go first!¡±


    Hearing those words, Shi Yumei smiled heartily before pinching Gu Fangzi¡¯s cheek. ¡°See, didn¡¯t I tell you? Shi Fengju still cares a lot about you, but he¡¯s only just been busy!¡±


    ¡°Of course, I understand!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled with a nod.

 Chapter 95: How Dare He Help Her

    <h4>Chapter 95: How Dare He Help Her</h4>


    Shi Yumei then sighed, ¡°Oh please! You¡¯re his better half. Our Shi family¡¯s business will have to rely on the both of you to manage it in the future!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes glistened. That¡¯s right! A married woman can only venture about within the household. How vast the outside is, what does a frog in a well know? Can I even be of help to Big Cousin when ites to handling business?


    Once her mourning period was over, she could immediately join hands with Big Cousin to manage the Shi business. That was better than handling the trivial affairs within the household! When that time came, Big Cousin would eventually know marrying whom would be the best for him!


    Just so long as she grabbed onto Big Cousin tightly, what could that Sang Wan do regardless how capable she was? And who cared about a concubine recing a wife?


    ¡°Cousin Yumei is right, but Fangzi isn¡¯t worthy of such words ah! Cousin Yumei, you jest!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression loosened a little and she smiled modestly.


    ¡°If not you, then who else is worthy of such words!¡± Shi Yumei smiled before sighing again, ¡°It sure is unfortunate that you¡¯re facing such circumstances the moment I got home! Otherwise, we could have so much fun together! Tomorrow, we¡¯ll be eating crabs at Qiufang Pavilion. It¡¯s a pity you can¡¯t go!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was instantly pierced by such straightforwardness, but she quickly sighed, ¡°That isn¡¯t true. The heavens have their own way of doing things, but who knew it would end up as such!¡±


    ¡± I know right? This ah, is what people call as good things happening during one¡¯s suffering!¡± Shi Yumei gently patted Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand before consoling her, ¡°Half a year will pass very quickly! When that dayes, everything will definitely be better!¡±


    Gu Fangzi nodded gratefully and asked conveniently, ¡°This season is the best to have crabs. Was it Big Cousin¡¯s idea to hold this treat?¡±


    ¡°Nope,¡± Shi Yumei said, ¡°It¡¯s that Sangss!¡± And then, she sighed again, ¡°But I had to initiate it, else she wouldn¡¯t have arranged it! But at least she still has some conscience by treating us to some crabs! Today, I saw the crabs that were delivered here from the country house. They were asrge as a bowl, and maybe around 0.3kg!¡± She then moved on to say how unfortunate it was that she wouldn¡¯t be able to join them.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression had seemed to change a few times before she smiled and asked, ¡°Then she sure has some conscience! Ah yes, Cousin Yumei, how do you know it was sent from a country house? Our family¡¯s country house?¡±


    ¡°Yes ah! I saw it myself and heard it myself, so how can I be wrong? Oh, she also knows how to use an abacus!¡± Shi Yumei recalled, ¡°Doing them a favor after taking the crabs! Yesterday, you should¡¯ve seen how happy my mother was when she brought it up! My mother praised her for being very filial!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart sank, but she forced a smile, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t say it like that. It was she who did all the arrangements after all! And there¡¯s a bill when the country houses send things over. Otherwise, how can the country houses even earn their living!¡±


    Shi Yumei smiled after hearing her so. ¡°So you understand! And you¡¯re even helping her speak!¡±


    Gu Fangzi smiled dryly, but her heart was shaken.


    She was clear that the Shi family had 3rge country houses and 5 small country houses in Qingzhou. Among the 3rge country houses, 2 had fertilend and were suitable for farming, and the other was located in a forest which spanned 667 hectares. But those three did not raise crabs. Even the 5 small country houses did not. At least, not the kind of crabs which Shi Yumei had just described.


    She only knew that Shi Fengju¡¯s personal country house raised crabs as she remembered going there with him. Without a doubt, this feast might have Sang Wan taking the limelight, but Shi Fengju was helping her behind!


    How could he help her! She even needed help for something this simple! Does she not even have a single silver on hand? Can¡¯t she prepare this herself?


    Gu Fangzi was feeling sour and uneasy. Recalling the way Shi Fengju treated her the yesterday, her anger and uneasiness multiplied by a few folds.


    As expected, a man¡¯s heart was the most unreliable! Since they had been very much in love since young, their bond shouldn¡¯t have been broken this easily. But his feelings had changed! He had been snatched away by that vixen!


    Although hurt, Gu Fangzi did not falter. Instead, her will to fight grew even stronger. She believed that if he could change this time around, then he could still change back so long as she did not give up!


    ¡°Oh right, Cousin Yumei, have you gotten used to staying in Banana Courtyard? How did the decorations and arrangements go?¡± Gu Fangzi smiled. ¡°That sister of mine is a most pure-hearted and elegant person, so I¡¯m sure that the way she decorated the courtyard will be elegant andfortable for you!¡±


    Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about her anymore! As if I still dare to have her do anything for me! Shi Fengju would always be present to help her out with the things i asked her to do, so much so that even my heart ached for him! She knows nothing about caring for her own husband!¡± Shi Yumei said before telling Gu Fangzi about how Shi Fengju was present during the day they were deciding on the decorations and theyout, and then about how the selected bonsais were picked by him instead of Sang Wan!


    Hearing these, Gu Fangzi also felt infuriated.


    But she quickly changed her expression and gave Shi Yumei an exnation while affirming herself at the same time, ¡°Cousin Yumei, you should be happy instead! It means that Big Cousin looks up to you a lot and will not be at ease unless he handles them personally!¡±


    ¡°I also thought the same way!¡± Shi Yumei smiled at her. Otherwise, she would have already gone to give Sang Wan trouble.


    ¡°Cousin Yumei only brought Cui Zhu back, but are there enough servants in Banana Courtyard to serve?¡± Gu Fangzi asked casually.


    Shi Yumei smiled and nodded. ¡°Mother gave me twosses, Xiao Shuang and XIao He, as well as two other senior servants. As for the servant serving at the study room, Shi Fengju has already assigned one to your brother-inw. asionally, some servants wille over to tidy the courtyard, so there are enough!¡±


    Gu Fangzimented, ¡°Aunt is so thoughtful! But hereI thought it was Sister who was supposed to arrange so!¡±


    Shi Yumei spoke in disdain, ¡°As if anyone she assigns will be useful. I¡¯m not so foolish; she¡¯s sure to put a pair of eyes in my courtyard!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei, you¡¯re quite incorrect! Sister¡¯s servants are extremely capable! Also, you¡¯re the eldest daughter of the family, so which servant would dare to go to such an extreme to be her eyes!¡±


    Seeing as to how Gu Fangzi kept singing praises for Sang Wan, Shi Yumei just sighed and praised her for being broadminded.


    Unfortunately, although Shi Yumei disliked the servants in the small garden, Ren Zhixian was thinking otherwise.


    When Shi Fengju sent a servant boy to serve him in his study room, the phrase ¡°studying apanied by a beauty at night¡± was instantly shattered.


    After suffering in Shi Fengju¡¯s hands a few times, he did not dare to provoke him. And so, he used an indirect method, venting all his frustrations on Shi Yumei and keeping an angry expression on his face.


    Shi Yumei could not endure any longer, and she eximed, ¡°Just live with it, this is my mother¡¯s house, not ours! Touch your heart and ask yourself, ever since we have arrived, when had they ever shortchanged us? Just what do you want!¡±


    Ren Zhixian sneered, ¡°Yes, they did not shortchange us! Those meals are being offered in pity mixed with contempt! They¡¯re just giving alms!¡± His face was filled with disdain when saw the nk look on Shi Yumei¡¯s face. ¡°You probably don¡¯t understand that, so let me give an analogy. Let¡¯s say we went to a poor family, and that poor family only has onest piece of pork belly, but they serve it all to us; then we go to a wealthy family. They have plenty of grain and livestock, but they only ughter one chicken to wee us. Let me ask you, who is more generous?¡±


    Shi Yumei still could not understand, and she said, ¡°What poor what rich, what pork belly and ughtered chicken? All I know is that my mother and brother have treated us well enough! Else where should we go, to your friend¡¯s ce? Who would want you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just too short-sighted!¡± Toozy to argue with her, Ren Zhixian shook his head and grunted, ¡°Don¡¯t think of your mother and your brother as great people! Hmph, I¡¯m a schr; if not for the achievements I can obtain in the future, do you think they would still keep us? Wake up, will you? If your brother truly did care for us, will we still be in such a state?¡±


    Shi Yumei understood those words. She was feeling both anxious and furious, but she couldn¡¯t find words to refute him. ¡°Why do you keep saying that again and again! I¡¯ve already been married off. If I don¡¯t rely on them, then who else can I rely on? You? Do you not know how we lost all our family¡¯s assets? Do you need me to say it out loud? It¡¯s all because you spent it all so recklessly! Even my dowry was exchanged, and my other servants were sold off! You¡¯re in no position to say that!¡±


    Shi Yumei became emotional, and her tears began falling.


    Ren Zhixian remained haughty as ever and said, ¡°What does a short-sighteddy even know! I spent it all recklessly? Those were to build rtions with friends, do you understand! If I don¡¯t do so, how else can I enhance my learning! You won¡¯t understand even if I tell you this!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah, I don¡¯t understand, I¡¯m not as great as you!¡± Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting, waiting for the day you can clear us from this line of poverty, then I¡¯ll salute you! But I¡¯m afraid that might not even be possible in this lifetime!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was so furious that his face turned white. He pointed angrily at her, ¡°You, you, don¡¯t you dare look down on me! ¡®Only women and viins are difficult to live with!¡¯ It seems the saying of a sage is indeed true!¡± With that, he smiled coldly as he said, ¡°All you can think of is wanting me to clear us off this line of poverty? Without a servant to serve and the need to worry about all the minor things, as if I can study! I think you¡¯re right, there¡¯s no use in studying!¡±


    Shi Yumei was taken aback. ¡°Isn¡¯t Shi Ming serving you in the study room? Or is he bullying you?¡±


    Ren Zhixian grunted coldly, ¡°A servant that cannot help me is shameful to say! Although honest, he is clumsy and useless!¡±


    Shi Yumei was, after all, someone who understood him. She finally understood why his face was dark these few days and she sighed, ¡°Useless? Then why couldn¡¯t you just say so? If you don¡¯t, how would we know?¡±


    Ren Zhixian grunted. Say? What use is saying? And ¡®we¡¯? Just which family do you belong to!


    Shi Yumei cared a lot for her husband¡¯s promising future since the journey ahead depended greatly upon him! There was no way she could stay in her parental house for her entire life!


    Changing her tone to a gentler one, she quickly said, ¡°I¡¯ll find my younger brother today and tell him to change the servant who¡¯s serving you!¡±

 Chapter 96: Wanting A Servant

    <h4>Chapter 96: Wanting A Servant</h4>


    ¡°No need, no need!¡± Ren Zhixian said faintly, ¡°He just feels that he may not be suitable to serve in the study room!¡±


    Shi Yumei looked at him deeply before saying, ¡°Then who do you think is appropriate? Tell me!¡±


    So she isn¡¯t that stupid! Ren Zhixian thought to himself.


    ¡°There is oness who I think is quite intelligent. But I¡¯m just afraid that your brother might not be willing to give her!¡± Ren Zhixian said with no restraint.


    Shi Yumei could feel a gust of anger rising up her stomach. So, he wants a female and not a male servant serving him. Without even using her head, she was already clear of her husband¡¯s intentions! He must have fancied somess and must want to have her as one of his closest servants.


    Shi Yumei was at a loss, and she wanted to quarrel with him, but after some thoughts, she let it slide. Under the heavens, there were adulterers and men who preyed on beauty! Although her husband was lustful, he had never done anything over the line and never favored the concubine to do away with the wife. Moreover, all he had were only servants and never an actual concubine. Quite visibly, he still looked highly upon her as his wife!


    Doing so was already a feat for a man, and she was thankful for that. If her husband were like her second sister-inw¡¯s, then her life would surely be miserable!


    Having this mindset, Shi Yumei¡¯s anger seemed to have subsided slightly, and she said with a pleasant expression, ¡°Whichss? Ain¡¯t it just ass? My younger brother isn¡¯t a petty person!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear! Then I¡¯ll be eagerly waiting for you to ask!¡± Ren Zhixian said, ¡°She¡¯s that servant always by your sister-inw¡¯s side. She goes by the name Zhide!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes went slightly clouded for a moment. ¡°Zhide? Zhide ah!¡±


    The moment she heard that the servant was her sister-inw¡¯s, she felt somewhat unhappy. But after recalling Gu Fangzi¡¯s words, and then about Zhide being a servant born in the household, she nodded with a smile,. ¡°You sure have good eyes. That is my sister-inw¡¯s head servant who has always been serving in the small garden! Alright, when my brother returns, I¡¯ll ask him!¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s face was filled with glee, and he quickly said his thanks before saying how having a servant serving him by his side would let him focus on his studies without the need to keep on worrying about other things. Coaxed after hearing things like their future was secured because he would study hard, Shi Yumei vouched with a sigh, ¡°If that¡¯ll really let you settle your heart to study, then let¡¯s forget one, I¡¯m even willing to ask for ten!¡±


    ¡°My good wife!¡± Ren Zhixian smiled and cupped his hands before frowning. ¡°Although you can understand me, your younger brother doesn¡¯t. He thinks that I¡¯m deliberately asking for too much and purposely sent a problematic servant to me! But if we were to argue until the heavens shake, then I think it¡¯s best not to! After all, we¡¯re living in someone else¡¯s household. We should put up with things as much as we can!¡±


    Although Shi Yumei was thinking the same, she disliked hearing it from someone else¡¯s mouth. It was almost as if she did not belong to the household, and that she was not Mother¡¯s most cherished daughter and not her younger brother¡¯s sister!


    ¡°That can¡¯t be!¡± Shi Yumei snorted, ¡°My brother isn¡¯t that kind of person! He won¡¯t say otherwise to his sister! It¡¯s just that other person... Forget it, I won¡¯t wait until he¡¯s back. I¡¯ll go and find my sister-inw! Don¡¯t worry, I have my own way of doing things!¡±


    Shi Yumei got up without any dy and brought with her a servant as she went to the small garden.


    Sang Wan felt a chill when she saw her. These few days were enough for her to tell what those two¡¯s personalities were. Although Ren Zhixian would asionally try to find fault with her, Shi Yumei was different. She was stubborn and more difficult to handlepared to her mother.


    ¡°Big Sister, you¡¯re here! Quickly,e in and have a seat!¡± Sang Wan smiled as she weed her before instructing a servant girl to bring in some tea and snacks.


    To her surprise, Shi Yumei was not looking to give her trouble today. All of a sudden, that face suddenly expressed a grin. ¡°Younger sister-inw, I hope I¡¯m not bothering you!¡±


    ¡°Nothing of the sort!¡± Sang Wan quickly responded with a smile.


    After a brief moment of awkward conversation, Shi Yumei hurried her, ¡°I was just bored, so I went out for a walk. I didn¡¯t expect to end up here! You don¡¯t have to bother about me and carry on with what you¡¯re busy with! I¡¯ll sit here for a while before leaving! Go, go, hurry along! We¡¯re a family, so there¡¯s no need for you to be so particr! Oh, let thisss stay and chat with me!¡± Shi Yumei said as she pointed at Zhide.


    Sang Wan pondered to herself. Before, she thought that Shi Yumei was being polite towards her, and she didn¡¯t dare to take her words literally, so she gave a perfunctory smile. But who knew that wasn¡¯t the case. Shi Yumei was obviously trying to chase her away.


    Sang Wan felt helpless, but she really had something to see to in any case, so she gave in and instructed Zhide to serve the eldest missy properly before taking her leave.


    Shi Yumei held on to a cup of tea as she observed Zhide from top to bottom with a smile. Her figure was well-proportioned, her shoulders were slim, her face was oval in shape, her nose was good looking, and her eyes were sparkly. With just one look, Shi Yumei thought she was indeed beautiful. She was the honest and steady type, unlike those frivolous ones.


    No wonder she has caught my husband¡¯s eye; she is indeed perfect!


    The more Shi Yumei looked at her, the more satisfied she was, and she nodded repeatedly.


    Zhide stood at a side, fidgeting with her fingers. She didn¡¯t dare look up as Shi Yumei gazed intensely at her. Just what is the eldest missy of the family thinking? That thought itself made her heart pound heavily.


    ¡°Is there something on nubi, or is there something on nubi¡¯s face that catches Eldest Missy¡¯s eyes!¡± Zhide helplessly smiled and asked as she shook ufortably.


    ¡°Keke, nothing, nothing!¡± Only then did Shi Yumei realize that her eyes had been on her for quite some time already, and she quickly waved at her, ¡°Come, have a seat! Let¡¯s talk!¡±


    ¡°In front of the eldest missy, nubi has no right to sit,¡± Zhide felt more and more ufortable and smiled. ¡°If Eldest Missy has anything to instruct nubi, nubi, nubi...¡±


    ¡°Not good!¡± A voice deep within Zhide suddenly shrieked. What if, what if the eldest missy is here to inquire about Ma¡¯am? What if she wants nubi to be her eyes in the small garden? That¡ª


    Zhide¡¯s heart trembled, and her expression changed. Shi Yumei found her quite amusing, and she pulled her to a seat before smiling to tell her, ¡°Your pluck is too small! I asked you to sit, so sit! You don¡¯t have to hold back! I¡¯m sure you know my personality; I¡¯m easy to get along with!¡±


    ¡°Then, nubi shall give her thanks to Eldest Missy!¡± Helplessly, Zhide forced a smile and carefully sat down, but her heart was pounding more than before. The ma¡¯am was a great person who taught her how to read, thus she was greatly in favor of her. Regardless of what happened next, she would not do anything to harm Ma¡¯am. If things were to go wrong, couldn¡¯t she just beg to be married off and leave this small garden?


    By her parents¡¯, as well as her brother¡¯s, position in the Shi family, she still had the assurance.


    Now, after taking into consideration the worst possible option she could take, her heart finally calmed down.


    ¡°That¡¯s it mah!¡± Shi Yumei smiled with satisfaction before asking Zhide some questions. They went something like how old she was, what she usually liked to do, how her embroidery skills were, what were the main tasks assigned to her by Ma¡¯am, how many siblings she has, what do they do, and so on.


    Although Zhide¡¯s heart gradually became settled, she was not willing to borate on her words, and she ended her sentences after two or three. She talked about some tasks her masters would asionally give her to do, the chores she did at home during her break, her poor embroidery skills, and words along those lines.


    However, Shi Yumei asked her those to create an opportunity for their conversation to sound a little better. She did not care how Zhide answered her and therefore did not put them to heart. On one side, a question was asked, and the other just quickly brushed it aside with a brief answer. Miraculously, the conversation managed to continue on.


    ¡°Oh right, I heard that your ma¡¯am also teaches you how to read. Is that true?¡± Shi Yumei suddenly asked.


    Zhide¡¯s body stiffened but she said with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s true... It is unfortunate that nubi isn¡¯t intelligent and can only read a few words unlike Hong Ye and Liu Ya! Even Ma¡¯am said that teaching nubi requires a lot of effort!¡±


    ¡°Your ma¡¯am ah, she¡¯s a talented woman. In her eyes, who isn¡¯t stupid!¡± Shi Yumei said half-mockingly, ¡°If I may add, women ah, what use is there to know how to read? It isn¡¯t even important! The most important thing is to marry a good husband to secure a peaceful future!¡±


    Zhide¡¯s face turned red after hearing her so, and she could not help but lower her head silently. She was feeling both awkward as well as embarrassed, and she thought to herself, What is going on? I¡¯m not even close with the eldest missy, so why is she bringing this up!


    ¡°Foolishss, what¡¯s there to be embarrassed about!¡± Shi Yumei saw her bashful face and was even happier. She could not help but hold Zhide¡¯s hand with a smile. ¡°For women, who wouldn¡¯t think so? We¡¯re both women, so there¡¯s no need to be embarrassed about it! You aren¡¯t that young anymore. Have you taken a liking to someone already?¡±


    Zhide¡¯s face turned even redder, and she lowered her head even further. A brief momentter, she shook her head stiffly before retracting her hand gently.


    ¡°Then that¡¯s great! This must be the heavens¡¯ will ah!¡± Shi Yumeiughed without any cares and asked, ¡°Then, would you like toe with me?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Missy?¡± Zhide¡¯s eyes widened, and she looked at Shi Yumei. ¡°Nubi doesn¡¯t understand what Eldest Missy means.¡±


    Shi Yumei lightly brushed on her clothes before saying, ¡°I can see that you¡¯re quite intelligent, and my impression of you is quite positive! Well, I won¡¯t beat about the bush and tell you straight up! I¡¯m sure you know that my husband is now studying very hard for the uing examinations. However, there isn¡¯t a clever servant to serve him which might affect his studies. I was thinking of picking one from the household, and after looking for some time, I found that you are the most suited! Keke, you¡¯re fortunate to be born in the Shi family, different from many others. When my husband scores well in the imperial examinations, you¡¯ll be an official concubine; even Cui Zhu cannot bepared to you! I¡¯ve always been a tolerant person, and my husband¡¯s temperament is already good. We¡¯ll surely not treat you unfairly! And in the future when you have a son, your life will beplete! Tell me, hasdy luck finally found you? All the servants in the household will be envious of you, and no one can bepared to you!

 Chapter 97: Zhide’s Request

    <h4>Chapter 97: Zhide¡¯s Request</h4>


    Shi Yumei¡¯s voice was crisp and pleasant, but even though she spoke with a smile, Zhide¡¯s face turned ghastly white, and her body trembled coldly.


    The world around her went silent. All she heard was a sharp buzzing sound, and everything else that Shi Yumei said went unheard! Her mind was only sending one message to herself, and that was: The eldest missy¡¯s husband is inviting her to ¡®serve¡¯ him!


    Only the eldest missy seemed oblivious to how trashy that man was. He was the object of jokes for some brave servants behind her back. By marrying such a man, what future was there to look forward to? In just one nce, he was just a man who lived depending upon others!


    Envious? Her sisters* not making a joke out of her was already considered good. As if they¡¯d be envious!


    [TLN: not actual sisters but servants who work together with her]


    ¡°Aiyo, what¡¯s there to worry about? Lady luck¡¯s finally looking at you, so you should be happy! Come, I¡¯ll bring you and notify my sister-inw about this. Once you¡¯ve packed your things and kowtowed to her, we¡¯ll go back to Banana Courtyard!¡±


    As she spoke, she got up and pulled Zhide along with her.


    Zhide shrugged her hand off before forcing a smile. ¡°Eldest Missy, this, this is all too sudden. Nubi wishes to be alone for a while, will that be okay?¡± Zhide said before doing a kowtow, ¡°Nubi wishes for Eldest Missy to give nubi some time! Please, Eldest Missy!¡±


    Shi Yumei was startled, but she simply thought that Zhide must be feeling over the clouds after hearing such great news. Thinking that she would have to get along with her in the future, wouldn¡¯t it be better not to make a scene now? Giving Zhide some time to think things through was already a great act of generosity on her part, and she nodded, ¡°Alright then! Just think things through first then! I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll understand how great of a fortune this is. I¡¯m not here to make you suffer! Then tomorrow, I¡¯ll tell your Ma¡¯am before bringing you along with me to Banana Courtyard! Take your time to pack your things, and don¡¯t forget to say your goodbyes to your sisters*!¡±


    Shi Yumei fished out two silvers and squeezed them to Zhide before smiling generously, ¡°Take these and treat your sisters* to a meal! As for any left, you can put them in your savings!¡±


    ¡°Nubi doesn¡¯t dare! Eldest Missy, nubi cannot ept them!¡± Zhide clenched her fists tightly, not willing to ept.


    After several tries of not being able to gift those silvers, Shi Yumei could only smile as she kept them. Deep down, she was feeling even more pleased with Zhide. ¡°What a goodss ah!¡±


    Zhide sent her off without a word before turning to let her tears flow uncontrobly.


    She blinked a few times to clear her eyes off the excess tears before letting out a sigh. Only then did she realize that cold sweat had formed in her palms, and she shivered slightly. But upon seeing a littlessing to pick up some items in the small garden, she quickly calmed her heart and quietly went to handle the task at hand.


    Sang Wan returned after she was done. Seeing that Shi Yumei was not around, she let out a sigh of relief. Conveniently, she asked when Shi Yumei had left and after hearing a response from Zhide, she said no more.


    As the day progressed, Zhide¡¯s quietness gained some notice from Sang Wan. It was as if she had something deep to think about, but because she didn¡¯t say anything, Sang Wan didn¡¯t go to ask about it. Zhide had always been one to mind her own business and keep herself out of trouble. Although she was hardworking and her character had improved since the day they met, that mindset was still engraved in her bones. As for loyalty and closeness, not mentioning Liu Ya, she couldn¡¯t even be matched with Hong Ye.


    In the evening, Shi Fengju returned. The two chatted for a while before having dinner. And after dinner, Shi Fengju went off to his study room. With nothing to do, Sang Wan instructed a servant to brighten up the room while she went to work on her craftsmanship to kill time.


    Suddenly, she raised her head. Standing in front of her was Zhide, and she could not help but smile. ¡°Why¡¯s it you? You¡¯ve all worked hard today, so you must be tired. Go and call a small servant in to serve me. You can go back and rest!¡±


    ¡°Nubi isn¡¯t tired.¡± Zhide forced a smile before handing a cup to tea to Sang Wan. ¡°Ma¡¯am, looking at fine details at night will strain your eyes. Have a cup of tea. Sir would often tell us that Ma¡¯am should not be doing anything taxing at night!¡±


    Sang Wan received it with a smile before taking a few sips. Seeing a face filled with sadness, in addition to the asional sighs, Sang Wan gently put her tea side before asking, ¡°You have something to say to me?¡±


    Zhide trembled slightly and tears began to fall uncontrobly. She kneeled on the floor and begged, ¡°Ma¡¯am, please save nubi! Nubi has no other path to take!¡±


    ¡°What happened! Quickly, tell me!¡± Sang Wan was taken aback. She did not expect her words which she had said so casually to actually have so much of an effect.


    Zhide swallowed her tears and managed to hold herself after much effort before responding to Sang Wan with a ¡®Yes, Ma¡¯am.¡¯ She got up unsteadily and began narrating what happened when she was alone with the eldest missy. Then, she begged, ¡°Ma¡¯am, please help nubi. Nubi just wishes to serve Ma¡¯am well and then marry well a few yearster. Nubi will be never greedy and will never yearn for a higher status! Even if nubi doesn¡¯t marry someone, nubi is also willing, willing to serve Ma¡¯am for all nubi¡¯s life! Ma¡¯am, please help nubi!¡±


    A gust of anger formed in Sang Wan. This big sister of hers isn¡¯t taking her too seriously! Whatever Shi Yumei wanted, she gave without a word. But now, she wanted her head servant without even telling her beforehand. That was just too much!


    Sang Wan shivered at the thought. If not for Zhide having a mind of her own and not being greedy, she would have happily followed Shi Yumei while she was kept in the dark. Surely, she would have been seen as a huge joke!


    The only thing was, helping Zhide might not be so easy. After all, the one who wanted her was Shi Yumei, her mother-inw¡¯s most doted upon daughter.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, Ma¡¯am! Please help nubi!¡± Zhide could see the hesitation on Sang Wan¡¯s face, and her body stiffened. Gazing straight at Sang Wan, she sobbed, ¡°Nubi swears, nubi is willing to serve Ma¡¯am throughout her lifetime and will not marry anyone! So Ma¡¯am, please help nubi! In the future, nubi¡¯s life will be yours to keep!¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t say that!¡± Sang Wan could not help but sigh, and a look of pity could be seen on her face. She was a victim in her previous life, but who knew how it would end in this! Therefore, she was able to clearly rte to Zhide, and that made her sigh, ¡°Just how did you end up attracting Big Sister¡¯s attention! You¡¯re smart. Even without me telling you, I¡¯m sure you know how difficult this matter will be for me to handle!¡±


    ¡°Nubi understands,¡± Zhide choked, ¡°Nubi knows this would put Ma¡¯am in a difficult position, but other than Ma¡¯am, no one can save nubi! Please, Ma¡¯am, help this pitiful servant!¡±


    The eldest missy keepsing to find Ma¡¯am trouble. If she isn¡¯t willing to give even a servant, then who knows what other trouble she might stir up? The mistress would surely help her own daughter, and Sir would surely be on his sister¡¯s side.


    The more Zhide thought, the slimmer the possibility of her escaping this fate became. Her face was distraught, and her heart turned to stone. Is death the only way?


    But she wasn¡¯t willing! She still wanted to seek favor and marry a good person to live a blissful life! And when she would have a child in the future, she would want him to be sessful in life, no longer needing to live the life of a servant! That wasn¡¯t just her dream, it was also her parents¡¯. Could it be that that dream muste to a halt today!


    ¡°You really don¡¯t want to?¡± After some considerations, Sang Wan finally decided to help Zhide. In her previous life, Zhide was married off to another servant in the Shi household, and as for what happened to her after, she wasn¡¯t too sure. But it definitely had nothing to do with Ren Zhixian.


    ¡°Nubi doesn¡¯t want to! Nubi isn¡¯t willing!¡± Zhide¡¯s eyes glistened, and she answered before Sang Wan could ask, ¡°Even if the eldest missy¡¯s husband were to seed and be an official, nubi will not have any regrets!¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Sang Wan nodded and said, ¡°I can only help you try. Whether or not I can make it, I can¡¯t guarantee! If it doesn¡¯t work, then you can¡¯t me me!¡±


    Zhide was overjoyed after hearing so, and she quickly kowtowed, ¡°Nubi gives Ma¡¯am her thanks! Nubi understands. No matter the results, nubi will only have gratitude towards Ma¡¯am and will not me Ma¡¯am!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t cry anymore, dry your eyes and call Nanny Li in!¡±


    This matter happened in the small garden. Regardless what she was going to do, she should first consult Nanny Li.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Zhide fished out her handkerchief and wiped her eyes before going out to invite Nanny Li in.


    When Nanny Li arrived, Sang Wan briefly exined to her the matter at hand beforeining, ¡°Nanny, please evaluate for me the way I treat her and the way she treated me! I have to admit to myself that I¡¯ve done my best to treat her the best as I could. When she wanted my things, I gave them away without any hesitation. I even gave her the mutton-fat jade hairpin that Sir gifted to me because she wanted it, and that almost caused Sir to be angry at me for casually giving away the things he gave me! And just today, without even telling me, she came to the small garden wanting to take my servant away. Isn¡¯t, isn¡¯t she outright pping my face?¡±


    Sang Wan thought hard about her dested fate and her life full of struggles. Her eyes turned slightly red, and she would once in a while wipe her eyes. ¡°If it was just any other servant, then I wouldn¡¯t be so bothered, but as if I can give Zhide away so easily? She has been serving in the small garden for so many years and is both considerate and familiar with Sir. Wouldn¡¯t her leaving trouble me? But it was good that she understood and did not leave with Big Sister, else, Nanny, I might not be able to manage the household as well as the servants!¡±


    The more Sang Wan said, the angrier she got. With a firm expression, she said, ¡°Whatever the case, I will not give Zhide to her!¡±


    Hearing so, Nanny Li was not only feeling angry. She also thought that Shi Yumei had crossed the line. However, her starting point of thought was different from Sang Wan. She was standing at the angle of the entire Shi family and would look to ensure harmony within the household. At first, she had wanted to persuade Sang Wan, saying that the eldest missy¡¯s character had always been so, even when in front of the mistress, so Ma¡¯am shouldn¡¯t get overly angry! It was just a servant, so she might as well give the servant to her! Then after that, have the young master give her a scolding or two so that she wouldn¡¯t do it ever again!


    Unexpectedly, Sang Wan¡¯s words immediately stopped hers and made her speechless. She could not help but sigh, and she could not be angry at Ma¡¯am at all. After all, Ma¡¯am had already put up enough with the eldest missy! But the eldest missy¡¯s requests became more and more unreasonable! Regardless of the type of person, everyone has a limit to their temper, even Ma¡¯am! If she didn¡¯t and if she were an easy pushover, then she should not even be managing the household.

 Chapter 98: A Concubine Is Never The Same As A Wife

    <h4>Chapter 98: A Concubine Is Never The Same As A Wife</h4>


    Nanny Li remained silent as she cast a nce at Zhide who was sobbing silently at a side. A horse can be led to a body of water, but it cannot be forced to drink, Nanny Li thought to herself. Since Ma¡¯am is frustrated and Zhide isn¡¯t willing to go, then it¡¯ll be best not to force her, or else things won¡¯t end well.


    ¡°Then, what does Ma¡¯am n to do?¡± Nanny Li smiled and asked.


    Sang Wan sighed softly and said, ¡°This problem is difficult to handle, and that¡¯s why I called you over to seek your opinions! In any case, she is my sister-inw, and I don¡¯t wish to cause a scene that would make her lose her face because both Mother and Sir will not be too happy about it. But she has crossed the line this time! Zhide is like my arm, and I cannot just turn a blind eye!¡±


    However, before Nanny Li could speak, Shi Fengju had lifted the curtains and barged in unexpectedly. He questioned, ¡°What happened? What about my big sister? And what does it have to do with Zhide?¡±


    The facial expressions of the three who were present changed instantly. Zhide was the most startled, and her eyes almost dropped onto the floor. Oh no! Not only was she unable to avoid jumping into the fire pit, she had even pulled her ma¡¯am with her!


    Sang Wan was also taken aback, and her mind quickly drifted. How could she have been so careless! They should have had Liu Ya keep an eye outside the door! They didn¡¯t know to which extent had he heard their conversation, so he might even think that they were scheming against her sister!


    Nanny Li¡¯s mouth hung wide open as she was not sure what she should say. Afraid that Shi Fengju might jump into conclusions and fault Sang Wan, she quickly smiled and answered, ¡°Young Master is here. It¡¯ll be best for him to make the decision instead! Ma¡¯am, why don¡¯t you let the young master in on the situation!¡±


    One side was his sister, and the other was his wife. This matter ah, it would be best to let him handle this heck of a headache! Nanny Li thought so before eyeing Zhide. With a bow, she dragged Zhide out with her.


    Sang Wan had finally calmed down, and she smiled. ¡°Yes, something did indeed happen. Sir, please have a seat while I exin it to you slowly.¡±


    After inviting him to take a seat, Sang Wan personally poured him a cup of tea before taking a seat and exining to him the details.


    There was no need to speak in a roundabout manner like she did to Nanny Li when the one listening was Shi Fengju. She spoke objectively and straightforwardly before adding, ¡°Zhide refused to go and came crying to me to help her, but your big sister has yet to mention it to me, so it¡¯ll be inconvenient for me to take the initiative to bring it up! That is why I called for Nanny Li to discuss with her, and that is when you suddenly came in!¡±


    After a brief moment of pause, she continued, ¡°Big Sister said that Zhide is intelligent and that she would like to have her serve her husband, so that he can study peacefully. But Zhide is one who doesn¡¯t speak much but has many thoughts in her head. Since she has already openly told me about her situation, forcing her to go would not be a good idea!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s face darkened slightly, and he fumed, ¡°That man sure is difficult to satisfy! To think he did have his eyes on the servants in the small garden! How very courageous of him!¡± He said to Sang Wan, ¡°You don¡¯t have to handle this. Let me instead!¡±


    And then he added with a sneer, ¡°Even if Zhide wants to go, as her master, she¡¯ll first have to go through me!¡± At the thought of his servant, who had served him for many years, being tainted by a bast*rd like Ren Zhixian, Shi Fengju felt even more disgusted.


    That¡¯s all? It was this easy? Sang Wan was so surprised that she could not believe what she heard.


    Brooding over this and then troubling Nanny Li were all for naught? It was all handled so easily just from the movement of his mouth?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Amazed?¡± Seeing her in such a state, Shi Fengju found her expression amusing, and he could not help but wave his hand in front of her eyes.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll let Zhide in to give her thanks!¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°Since Sir has already said so, then I don¡¯t have to worry anymore!¡±


    Shi Fengju cast a meaningful nce at her and smiled. ¡°Rx, I know what I should say to my big sister. Since she hasn¡¯t told you about it, then you should act as if you have never caught wind of this news at all!¡±


    Sang Wan found those words agreeable, and her expression immediately lightened up. With a grin, she nodded. ¡°En.¡±


    Shi Fengju then went on, ¡°Let¡¯s push that aside for a moment. You¡¯re now the household¡¯s Ma¡¯am, so those servants directly under you shouldn¡¯t be given away so easily! That point is something I canpletely understand!¡±


    Sang Wan was immediately taken aback, and she dodged his gaze in that brief moment before mumbling, ¡°Then, I¡¯ll invite Zhide in to kowtow to Sir. That¡¯ll surely ease her worries!¡± Without waiting for Shi Fengju to respond, she called out to Zhide.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was fluttering intensely. His treatment towards her seemed to be somewhat different than before! He had changed¡ªbut she could not quite describe his change. It wasn¡¯t frustrating, and it wasn¡¯t a feeling she disliked!


    But her heart let out a sigh, So what if you¡¯re treating me well? Gu Fangzi, Concubine Gu is still within this household! With her still around, there was no way she would remain even if she were to deceive herself.


    Zhide came in. Seeing her anxious expression, Sang Wan smiled and assured, ¡°Your sir has spoken. He said that even if you want to go, he won¡¯t let you! The servants in the small garden cannot be easily given away to others! With this, there¡¯s no need for you to worry anymore.¡±


    Indeed, Zhide¡¯s face instantly changed into a smile, and her eyes became lively again. She quickly kowtowed to Shi Fengju, ¡°Nubi gives thanks to Sir! Nubi gives thanks to Ma¡¯am! In the future, nubi will be sure to serve Sir and Ma¡¯am even better than before!¡±


    ¡°Enough, you may leave! In the future, your Ma¡¯am¡¯s burden is yours to share too. Don¡¯t let her worries go in vain!¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    ¡°Yes, nubi understands and will obey Sir¡¯s very words!¡± Zhide kowtowed again before getting up and taking her leave.


    Sure enough, Sang Wan acted as if the matter did not reach her ears. On the next day, Shi Fengju went to find his big sister. Although there was no way to find out what he had said to her, she no longer came to find Sang Wan about Zhide. Then, the next day came, and an agent arrived at the household along with a few well-behaved servants for Ren Zhixian and Shi Yumei to pick.


    Even though Ren Zhixian was reluctant to give up on Zhide, he did not dare to aggravate Shi Fengju. Without making any objections, he went to select one who had a beautiful face and a clever vibe. Shi Yumei named her Cui Bao and ced her to serve at the study room. Shi Fengju then took Shi Ming back with him.


    Shi Ming feltpletely relieved. He assigned some simple matters before leaving Banana Courtyard without turning his head to give it onest look.


    On that day, the weather was just about right, and Shi Fengju decided to bring Sang Wan to greet his mother before bringing her out of the city to a country house for two days to let her catch a breather.


    Coincidentally, Shi Yumei was present and was having a conversation with Wang Shi. When she saw Sang Wan in a crimson and silver coat and vermilion dress while sporting a hairpin with embedded jewels in her hair, she lookedpletely like a rich and beautifuldy. She was dressed excellently, and standing by Shi Fengju who wore a moon white robe, they were like a perfect match.


    At the thought of the woman in Peony Park who wore in clothes, a sense of displeasure covered her heartpletely and she sneered, ¡°Second Younger Brother, you sure dote on your wife a lot! How can you only bring her out without inviting your own sister! But speaking of which, that brother-inw of yours should go out for some fresh air instead of studying the entire day!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s hands tightened. If they were to follow along, instead of having any idle time as well as some fresh air, she wouldn¡¯t have any air to breathe in from all the worrying she would be facing.


    But Shi Fengju chuckled and joked, ¡°Big Sis, I think you should just remain and take care of Big Brother-inw as well as apany Mother! Next time, I¡¯ll be sure to invite Big Sis. And Big Sis, you¡¯re right that Big brother-inw should actually leave the house and have some breather, but I¡¯m afraid that with my characteristics and myck of elegance, he wouldn¡¯t even want toe along with me, let alone speak with me!¡±


    ¡°Oh you jest!¡± Shi Yumei smiled, but she somewhat agreed with him. The look of dislike that her husband often had towards the Shi family was something she was entirely clear of.


    Shi Yumei suddenly felt somewhat ufortable, and she smiled. ¡°Your big sis is only joking with you! We aren¡¯t really going to go along with you, of course, unless I¡¯m frustrated! Second Brother ah, it¡¯s one thing to go, but don¡¯t forget about the old after having someone new! There¡¯s this saying that ¡®everything¡¯s better when new, but not for rtionships!¡±


    ¡°Yumei! There you go again!¡± Wang Shi smiled at her before directing it to Sang Wan. ¡°Your big sister just likes to joke around. Enough, enough, the two of you should be on your way!¡±


    Wang Shi smiled and nodded. She did not bother thinking too much about Shi Yumei¡¯s words, but Shi Fengju took the initiative, ¡°Big Sis, you¡¯re right! Big Sis ah, you have to keep a close eye on Big Brother-inw, or else he might end up keeping the new and forget the old ah! If that timees, there won¡¯t even be a ce for you to cry!¡±


    On the day Cui Bao entered the household, she was immediately taken into the chamber by Ren Zhixian and was serving closely by his side these few days. News like this couldn¡¯t escape Shi Fengju¡¯s ears if he wanted to know.


    ¡°You, how could you say that! You¡¯re turning more and more rude as the day passes by!¡± Shi Yumei was furious and embarrassed as she red at Shi Fengju.


    Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be angry at him! Aren¡¯t you the one who started it?¡± Then, she added, ¡°I can¡¯t guarantee anything else, but I am sure that my son-inw is not someone who will step over the line and do something like doting the concubine and neglecting the wife!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, of course!¡± Shi Yumei grunted, ¡°All she is worth is just a y thing that needs feeding, just like a domestic pet! As if I need to bat an eye on her! Doing so will mean losing to her!¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll take it that Big Sis understands,¡± Shi Fengju smiled. ¡°A wife is a wife, and a concubine is just a concubine; there will always be a gap! It has nothing to do with new or old!¡± With that, he cast a nce at Sang Wan before smiling at his sister. ¡°If he dares to do something as immoral as neglecting you, I¡¯ll definitely not spare him!¡±


    ¡°You ah!¡± Shi Yumei wasn¡¯t too sure whether she should be happy or not, and she let out a sigh, ¡°Enough, enough, there¡¯s no way I can win you in terms of speech! You two should be on your way! Don¡¯t be an eyesore here!¡±


    Everyoneughed upon hearing her so. Shi Fengju smiled and pulled Sang Wan along.


    The two of them got in the carriage. Slowly, it traveled out of the eastern gate of the city.


    Through the thin curtains that had a fresh scent, the sunlight shone brightly, letting rays of light into the carriage. Gazing out of the window, the sky was high up above, and the mountains looked far away. Sang Wan¡¯s heart finally felt at ease, and the edges of her lips rose slightly.


    Although this might sound pathetic, other than going back to her parental house, this was her first time leaving the Shi household.

 Chapter 99: Why Isn’t Miss Gu Here as Well

    <h4>Chapter 99: Why Isn¡¯t Miss Gu Here as Well</h4>


    ¡°We¡¯ll be going to a glorious country house in the east which is around 20 miles or so, and we¡¯ll arrive there in about an hour. There are mountains and a wideke there. The scenery there is also very refreshing! Oh, remember the crabs you ate a few days ago? Those were caught from theke there!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled towards Sang Wan.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sang Wan gently nodded, but she suddenly asked, ¡°A glorious country house? There¡¯s such a fancy country house that belongs to the Shi household? Why is this my first time hearing about it?¡± Sang Wan¡¯s tone brought a slight sense of embarrassment. Shi Fengju had someone send the crabs over, but all she cared about then was to have someone receive the crabs as well as give out rewards. She didn¡¯t have the slightest enthusiasm to know which country house those crabs came from.


    But Shi Fengju just smiled at her and said, ¡°It¡¯s normal for you not to know. That country house doesn¡¯t belong to the Shi household. It¡¯s my own personal one which I set up myself.¡±


    So it is his own private property ah! Sang Wan¡¯s expression turned stiff, and she scolded herself for overthinking. She shouldn¡¯t have brought up the questions and made the other person speak about his own private property! ¡°Oh,¡± Sang Wan responded before going silent. Secretly, she thought to herself, No wonder he can be so generous to go as far as refurbishing his sister¡¯s entire courtyard without even batting an eye. With this kind of capability, the amount of wealth he possesses must not be small!


    Taking the initiative, Shi Fengju broke the silence, ¡°Other than that private country house, I have two others as well as five shops. In total, they generate about sixty thousand silver in revenue every year. In addition, other than my third uncle who¡¯s out as an official and whose family does not own any private properties, my second uncle¡¯s family owns several private properties as well as shops which they would asionally ask me to take care of! So long as the household¡¯s foundation is not shaken, owning those are fine!¡± As he exined, he smiled, ¡°Even mother, who dislikes having additional responsibilities, also has a three-story residence and two satin shops situated at the heart of the city!¡±


    Mother¡¯s two satin shops was bound to be on the verge of closing down had I not asked someone to manage them in the dark myself! Shi Fengju quickly mumbled in his heart.


    Your Shi family is indeed wealthy ah! Sang Wan let out a sigh. Her heart was slightly aroused by her thoughts; if she had the money to purchase and and set up a business, then there would be no need for her to rely on others in the future! But it was a pity that all she had were jewelry, satins, paintings, and others which could only be used. As for money, she technically did not have much!


    Sang Wan could not help but feel somewhat frustrated as her heart pondered on how she should save up. Although the monthly twenty silver she received might be a lot, her expenditures were no less. Additionally, she had to reward the servants asionally, leaving her with only a fraction left! She really shoulde up with a n to reduce her expenses and save up more. That way, since those silver would be hers, she could fully depend on them and give herself a sense of security because she knew she shouldn¡¯t just wait until the day of her departure and rely on Sir to provide some charity. If by chance her actions were made him unhappy and caused him to be his uncharitable self, then as much as she wanted to cry, she would have nowhere to do so.


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression was not something Shi Fengju had predicted. He was unsure whether she had even heard his words as she did not seem to show any interest at all, nor did she request to have one private property for herself. That made Shi Fengju somewhat disappointed. Come on, say it! So long as you say it, all the private properties under my name will all be yours! Shi Fengju thought to himself.


    But how could Sang Wan even know what he was thinking? Even with great courage, she wouldn¡¯t even dare think about it.


    The atmosphere inside the carriage became somewhat dull after Shi Fengju had stopped speaking. She felt a little ufortable, and she was sure he felt the same way, too.


    After pondering for a short while, Sang Wan smiled to ask, ¡°Then, does your country house still have thoserge crabs? Although there was quite a number during the feast, I was too busy serving Mother, Second Aunt, and Big Sister, so I only had the chance to have a few bites. If there is, then you have to treat me!¡±


    Shi Fengju got all excited again, and he smiled as he replied, ¡°That was my intention in bringing you there in the first ce! There¡¯s ake by the country house which is also part of my property. Every year, there¡¯ll be thousands of crabs to reel! The water there is great, and the crabs there are of top quality. Every year, I¡¯ll always have Uncle and Auntie Cui prepare arge portion to either gift to others or eat by myself.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sang Wan could not help but smile. ¡°Then I¡¯m in for a treat!¡±


    ¡°You can eat however much you want! Uncle and Auntie Cui know that we¡¯ll be heading over, so they should have already prepared the crabsst night for us!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. As he watched her bright smile, her glistening eyes, and her glossy white teeth, her stunning looks shook his heart, and his smile became even more prominent.


    Time seemed to pass quickly as the two chatted, and the carriage soon pulled into a quiet mountain road. Heaps of mountains, along with their majestic peaks, appeared upon their sight, and they could only hear the sounds of birds chirping as well as the bellowing of the wind. The air with the faint scent of wet ground felt refreshing.


    Shi Fengju recognized the area, and he rolled up the curtain before instructing the coachman to drive slowly. Turning back to Sang Wan, he said, ¡°After passing through this valley and a thick forest, the carriage will make a turn, and we¡¯ll reach the country house!¡±


    Sang Wan looked out of the window and at the thick forest. The leaves were dyed in red, brown, and many other colors. Purple, golden, and snowy chrysanthemums were also scattered by the roadside, along the mountain slopes, and in the forest. Moreover, the lovable berries which hung in clusters on the branches above their headsplemented andpleted the exceptionally beautiful view.


    ¡°Sir sure has an eye for locations! This ce is wonderful!¡± Sang Wan praised with sincerity as she admired the view.


    Shi Fengju took advantage, and he added with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s not just this time of the year. In spring, it¡¯ll be even more beautiful with the shade of green on the leaves. This is also a great ce to escape from the summer heat! I¡¯ll bring you here again when that timees!¡±


    ¡°En! That¡¯ll be great!¡± Sang Wan agreed readily.


    Shi Fengju took that promise as her agreeing not to leave him, and the cloudiness in his heart finally cleared away. With a huge grin, he affirmed, ¡°I¡¯ll definitely bring you here again!¡±


    After crossing the valley and passing through the woods, they came across a stream of shallow water flowing from the corner of a bend. Although shallow, the stream was wide and clear, and it had fine sand, aquatic nts, and colored round pebbles discernible by the eyes. Therge rocks half-hidden in the stream caused a faint poppling to be heard.


    Along the bank, wild chrysanthemums bloomed everywhere, and the shrubs grew thickly.


    ¡°After this bend, we¡¯ll be arriving soon! This entire stream flows from theke by the country house!¡± Shi Fengju pointed out and smiled.


    ¡°What a beautiful stream! It makes the view of the mountains even more serene!¡± Sang Wan praised.


    Sure enough, the carriage made a turn at the edge of the mountain, and the view forward gradually cleared out. The once serene view of the mountains was reced with the view of a luscious green bamboo forest. Passing through the bamboo forest, they were finally able to spot a stretch of pinkish red and ck tiled wall with the roof high above the ground. That was the glorious country house.


    ¡°They¡¯re here! They¡¯re here!¡± A cheery voice could be heard once the carriage came to a stop. The two were greeted by a middle-aged couple, a missy around twelve or thirteen, and a few other servants. The woman went up and smiled to wee them, ¡°Young Master, Ma¡¯am, you¡¯ve finally arrived! Laonu thought that it was about time!¡±


    ¡°Auntie Cui! Uncle Cui!¡± Shi Fengju smiled as he got off the carriage before helping Sang Wan off. ¡°This is the ma¡¯am¡¯s first timeing here. Because the scenery was beautiful, I had the coachman drive the carriage a little slowly!¡±


    The little missy named Cui Ling ran up to them and bowed politely before greeting, ¡°Sir! Ma¡¯am!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled at her. ¡°Little Cui, you¡¯ve grown taller again ah!¡±


    Auntie Cui hurriedly went forward to support Sang Wan. ¡°Oh Ma¡¯am, look at how blessed you are! The young master is a great person, soonu was wondering which family¡¯s missy will be so fortunate!¡± With that, she added, ¡°But then there can only be someone like Ma¡¯am whose character suits the young master perfectly!¡±


    ¡°Auntie Cui, you speak too highly!¡± Sang Wan was a little embarrassed, and she smiled with her face slightly red.


    Uncle Cui went up and cupped his hands to report, ¡°Everything has been prepared. Young Master and Ma¡¯am, please go in to have a break!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! How could I have forgotten that! Young Master, Ma¡¯am, please go in!¡± Auntie Cui smiled apologetically as everyone entered.


    The room inside the country house was spacious and bright, and theyout was simple. It did not look as rich and luxurious as any of the buildings in the household, but it was slightly more exquisite than the average joe¡¯s.


    After washing their hands and rinsing their faces quickly, Auntie Cui grinned as she presented the tea, ¡°This isonu¡¯s own pine radish tea. It tastes mild, so I¡¯m not too sure if it suits Ma¡¯am¡¯s taste. If it doesn¡¯t,onu will boil another cup of tea.¡±


    When Sang Wan heard so, she knew that Shi Fengju liked to drink such tea, and she smiled before receiving the cup. After a sip, the mouthful of tea went down her throat, enveloping it with a faint grassy aroma. Sang Wan then smiled and said, ¡°This is fine. I usually like to have tea that tastes a little mild, too!¡±


    Auntie Cui let out augh, ¡°It¡¯s good that Ma¡¯am likes it! If Ma¡¯am doesn¡¯t mind,onu will pack a bag of this tea for Ma¡¯am to bring back!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and readily epted her suggestion.


    Auntie Cui then smiled at the two. ¡°Lunch has been prepared. This afternoon¡¯s lunch has been prepared with the theme of the mountains in mind. As for the crabs, they¡¯re being kept in a pond, and I will prepare themter for tonight¡¯s meal. There¡¯s still some time before lunch, so would Young Master and Ma¡¯am like to take a stroll in the fruit orchard? This season is great for harvesting pomegranates. A few days ago, the fruit vendors came to ask for those, but knowing that Young Master and Ma¡¯am areing today, I told them toe and collect a few dayster!¡± With that, she added, ¡°Pomegranates are good. May Young Master and Ma¡¯am be blessed with great abundance, so have more!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right! Have someone pick two baskets for us to bring back!¡± Shi Fengju could not help but grin as he cast a nce at Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan was feeling slightly awkward, and she hung her head low to take another sip from the tea while acting as if she had not heard anything.


    ¡°I will, I will! Laonu will pick them personally, andonu shall select the best for Young Master and Ma¡¯am!¡± Auntie Cui grinned.


    Shi Fengju also smiled before saying to Sang Wan, ¡°Come, I¡¯ll bring you around to have a breather!¡±


    ¡°En,¡± Sang Wan did not refuse and smiled as she got up.


    ¡°I want to go, too! I¡¯ll lead the way for Sir and Ma¡¯am!¡± Cui Ling eximed as she waved her hands around.


    ¡°Sure! Let¡¯s all go together!¡± Sang Wan quickly agreed. For the trip this time, Shi Fengju insisted on not bringing any servants with them; he said that the servants in the country house would be enough. As such, Zhide, Liu Ya, Hong Ye, and the rest did not follow. Their absence made Sang Wan a little nervous because this was the first time she would be alone with him away from the household, and she was afraid that things might get awkward.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get a basket!¡± Cui Ling responded cheerily before leaving briskly.


    Shi Fengju felt helpless and could only smile quietly at a side.


    Who knew that after a while when Cui Ling returned with a basket and Auntie Cui saw them out, Cui Ling would suddenly turn and ask Shi Fengju, ¡°Sir, howe Miss Gu didn¡¯te?¡±

 Chapter 100: The Glorious Country House

    <h4>Chapter 100: The Glorious Country House</h4>


    Sang Wan¡¯s body slightly stiffened as those words seemed to have deeply pierced her heart, but not to the point where her body went cold stiff, and so she quickly returned back to reality.


    That¡¯s right; this was such a beautiful ce, so surely, he must have brought his cousin here already, right?


    Shi Fengju cast a nce at Sang Wan, and he noticed her brows faintly scrunch up, as visible as a single cloud in a clear sky. Shi Fengju¡¯s heart turned somewhat gloomy, and he forced a smile, ¡°Miss Gu is busy, so she will not being in the future!¡±


    There was no way Cui Ling would know of the happenings inside the household. The littless was outspoken, and she sighed, ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a pity!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed, and her chest felt tight.


    Auntie Cui¡¯s face also changed, and she angrily red at Cui Ling before scolding her, ¡°Lass, why do you keep letting your mouth run! Go and serve Young Master and Ma¡¯am properly. What good is there in speaking about irrelevant things!¡± Then, she turned and said eagerly to Sang Wan, ¡°Ma¡¯am, not only does the orchard have pomegranates but also grapes, dates, oranges, and many more. Ma¡¯am, enjoy yourself slowly and have a taste of them. The soil here is fertile, and the water here is full of minerals, so our fruits are especially sweet!¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Then I¡¯ll be sure to have a taste of them!¡± Sang Wan smiled and blinked a few times at Cui Ling before gesturing at the sulkingss, ¡°Come, Xiao Ling, we¡¯re waiting for you to lead the way!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am!¡± Cui Ling nced at her mother from the corner of her eyes. Seeing that she was not displeased, her face brightened up, and she went to lead Sang Wan.


    Shi Fengju smiled bitterly and could only follow along.


    Behind the country house was a plot of unevennd ranging about fifty acres, and all of it was used to grow fruit trees. There were patches ofnd for loquat trees, peach trees, and pomegranate trees respectively. The small patch ofnd near the country house that spanned about one acre was used to grow many other different types of fruits. There were strawberries, apricots, plums, pears, cherries, persimmons, dates, papaya, grapes, and many others. From afar, Sang Wan could already smell the fragrance of the fruits.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, the pomegranates are over there! Be careful of your footing!¡± Cui Ling pointed to the north and smiled. ¡°Just look at that, those red orbs decorating the trees are the ones! When youe again next spring, it will be just right when the flowers of the peach blossom trees bloom over on that piece ofnd. It¡¯s really beautiful! On the fifth month, the loquats will be ripe with a beautiful shade of yellow, too! The loquats here are also very sweet!¡±


    ¡°Is that so? The ce you live in is truly great!¡± Sang Wan could not help but smile.


    ¡°En! I like it too!¡± Cui Ling nodded with a smile, ¡°This ce is especially good, and it is especially beautiful! My parents always say that it¡¯s all thanks to Sir¡¯s grace! Sir is the great benefactor of our family!¡±


    Cui Ling said as she smiled towards Shi Fengju.


    Shi Fengju hurried over andughed, ¡°Lass, your mouth¡¯s getting sweeter and sweeter by the day! Now, why don¡¯t you walk a little more slowly, or else your ma¡¯am can¡¯t keep up with you!¡±


    Cui Ling nced at the embroidered delicate satin shoes on Sang Wan¡¯s feet. Embarrassed, she smiled and said, ¡°I should¡¯ve been more thoughtful. Ma¡¯am, are you alright? Would you like to have a seat and take a break first?¡± With that, she scanned the area around her before spotting arge stone not far away. She went towards it and blew on its surface before cing a handkerchief over it. Then she gestured, ¡°Ma¡¯am,e and sit over here!¡±


    Sang Wan did not actually want to, but because of her unsuitable footwear which was not meant for walking on the bumpy ground, her feet were feeling slightly sore, and so she nodded. ¡°Be careful!¡± eximed Shi Fengju as he gently held her arm.


    Sang Wan could not help but struggle a little, and she ended up being helped by him as he remained unaffected by her little amount of force.


    After taking a seat, Shi Fengju went to instruct Cui Ling, ¡°Ma¡¯am¡¯s footwear is not suitable for walking over there, so why don¡¯t you pick a few good ones over? It¡¯ll soon be time for lunch, too! Sang Wan, we¡¯lle again after giving you a change of shoes!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sir!¡± Cui Ling nodded happily as that was the kind of task she liked to do. Eagerly, she darted off.


    ¡°Do your feet hurt a lot? Are you alright?¡± Shi Fengju asked.


    Sang Wan¡¯s dark and watery eyes gazed into his as she relished in the moment. She did not expect him to take notice of her difort. Although her footwear was not suitable for walking here, the pain was not so intense to the point that she could no longer endure it, and so she did not show the difort on her face. But who knew that he¡¯d take notice of it.


    ¡°I¡¯m alright! Just a break will do!¡± Sang Wan shook her head and smiled a little before standing back up again. ¡°Since we¡¯re already here, I really do want to go take a look. I¡¯ll be fine if we walk slowly!¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll walk slowly, but don¡¯t force yourself.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and apanied her forward while helping her familiarize herself with the surroundings.


    Passing through the peach trees, they were met with fiery red pomegranates, and they looked like rednterns hanging all around the branches. Gazing at the pomegranate trees in awe, Sang Wan eximed, ¡°The soil and water here is indeed great! These pomegranates are so huge!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am! Sir!¡± After spotting them, Cui Ling hurried over with a basket containing dozens of red pomegranates the size of arge fist. She took one out and rubbed it with her clothes before handing it to Sang Wan. ¡°Ma¡¯am, give it a try. They¡¯re very sweet!¡± Then, sheughed, ¡°Still, this isn¡¯t the period when these pomegranates are at their sweetest. On the tenth month when the snow starts to fall, all these pomegranates will be incredibly red, like blood red. When that timees, they¡¯ll be remarkably sweet and delicious! Even the seeds will be stained red!¡±


    ¡°Let me have it.¡± Shi Fengju took the pomegranate from Cui Ling. Ka cha He mmed the pomegranate at its center, and it broke into halves. ¡°Be careful. Don¡¯t stain your clothes!¡± Shi Fengju said as he handed Sang Wan a half.


    Cui Ling could not help but chuckle, ¡°Sir treats Ma¡¯am really well! In the past, I¡¯ve never seen¡ªE, Ma¡¯am, do your feet still hurt?¡±


    Cui Ling had wanted to say, In the past, I¡¯ve never seen Sir treating anyone this good, not even Miss Gu. But recalling her mother¡¯s re as well as her words, she cleverly stopped herself.


    ¡°They¡¯re alright now! Oh, and here you go, your handkerchief!¡± Sang Wan smiled and shook her head as she handed a handkerchief to Cui Ling.


    Cui Ling received it with thanks, and the three turned to return to the country house. Passing through the forest of fruits, they took a little detour and strolled around for a while longer. Cui Ling carefully picked two bunches of ripe purple grapes, and she said that those had to be washed first before letting Sang Wan taste their freshness.


    When they arrived near the country house, Auntie Cui saw them return, and she went up to greet them while helping Sang Wan, ¡°Ma¡¯am, Sir, you¡¯re back! Have a rest first before lunch!¡± Then, she smiled at Sang Wan and asked, ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you feeling tired? Were you alright walking on the road?¡±


    With a smile, Sang Wan said she was fine, and then they went into the country house together.


    Not too longter, Auntie Cui, together with a servant,id the dishes onto the table. There was a unique fragrance to the dishes because all the ingredients were either self-produced or picked from the mountains. The country house also had no chef, and the food was all done by Auntie Cui and two other servants. They employed a simple stir-fry methodmonly used by farmers, using no condiments other than oil, salt, sauce, and vinegar.


    But Sang Wan ate happily as the lunch tasted very simr to home cooking. She went on to praise Auntie Cui¡¯s cooking skill since it had been some time since shest ate something this good.


    The head chef in the Shi household dared not to im himself the best in Qingzhou as that was reserved for the best of the best. But what good things weren¡¯t there in the household? Auntie Cui did not believe Sang Wan¡¯s words, but anyone hearing those words would surely brighten up, and she smiled. ¡°It¡¯s good that Ma¡¯am likes it! How about Ma¡¯am bringingonu back too and havingonu cook for Ma¡¯am every day? But I¡¯m just afraid that Ma¡¯am might get tired of eating my cooking after two days!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and replied, ¡°Really? I really can¡¯t ask for more! But I¡¯m just afraid that Auntie Cui cannot bear to leave this ce!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hide this from Ma¡¯am, butonu really cannot bear to leave this ce!¡± Auntie Cui did not wish to pretend and she chuckled. That made everyoneugh.


    Auntie Cui could not help but quietly observe Sang Wan. The Sang missy is indeed dignified and elegant. And the way she treats others, as well as her temperament, is excellent. No wonder the young master treats her so well! In the past, she pitied the rtionship between the young master and Miss Gu, but after today, she felt that the ma¡¯am wasn¡¯t too bad, either! The young master sure is fortunate! Her heart soon started to ponder about Miss Gu¡¯s well-being and wondered why she didn¡¯te this time around!


    Thinking back at the bright and refreshing smile of Miss Gu, Auntie Cui¡¯s mood suddenly feltplicated because she was unsure whether to side with Ma¡¯am or Miss Gu. She used to think that Miss Gu and the young master were a suitable pair, but the two figures in front of her today seemed more like a match made in heaven!


    After the meal, Shi Fengju and Sang Wan sat in the lounge to have tea. Auntie Cui busily washed the fruits that were just freshly picked before serving them up. Some gorgon fruits, chicken head, lotus seeds, and lotus roots simmered in water were also served.


    ¡°These were all cultivated in the country house. Even though they might not be worth much, please have a taste of their freshness!¡± Auntie Cui smiled and offered.


    Sang Wan nodded, ¡°Thank you, Auntie Cui! It¡¯s rare to have them this fresh!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, the lotus roots that grow in theke here are particrly crispy and refreshing. Here, have a taste!¡± Shi Fengju used a toothpick to pierce a piece of tender lotus root before giving it to Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan was not used to his intimate behavior in front of others, and her face turned slightly warm. She also did not have the heart to refuse his offer, so she took it before taking a bite. The juice was silky and sweet, giving it a unique taste. Sang Wan smiled at him before giving her praise.


    Auntie Cui was also delighted after seeing that she liked it. She couldn¡¯t help butugh as she boasted about theke.


    After she was done, Shi Fengju then asked, ¡°Why do I not see any water chestnuts? There should be quite a lot during this season!¡±


    Auntie Cui smiled and answered, ¡°The young master sure is observant! Lots of water chestnuts have been picked this morning, but they are already a bit old, so they aren¡¯t as sweet and crispy anymore. And that¡¯s whyonu didn¡¯t serve them out. Later,onu will have someone to pick a few to let Ma¡¯am and Sir have a taste!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes glistened, and he suggested, ¡°That¡¯s just about right. The weather today is good, so Sang Wan and I wille alongter! We¡¯ll go there and take a dip!¡± He then smiled towards Sang Wan, ¡°Where there are crabs, the water chestnuts will also be great! Since you¡¯re here, you have to give it a try!¡±


    ¡°The young master is right,¡± Auntie Cui hurriedly added, ¡°Then please rest here for a while first. Laonu will have someone to prepare the boat.¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for the trouble. Just the usual small wooden boat used for picking water chestnuts will do!¡±


    Sang Wan also smiled, ¡°I¡¯ve never been on that kind of boat before! It¡¯ll be a memory to remember!¡±


    Auntie Cui then agreed, ¡°Alright then! But the boat¡¯s a little dirty, so it¡¯ll still need a little scrubbing first!¡± With that, she went on to instruct a servant.

 Chapter 101: Harvesting Water Chestnuts

    <h4>Chapter 101: Harvesting Water Chestnuts</h4>


    Hearing that the two were going to make their way to theke, Cui Ling couldn¡¯t contain her excitement, and she eximed as her eyes glistened brightly, ¡°Sir, Sir, why don¡¯t I prepare a rod, and we can go prawning! Theke has lots of prawns, so I¡¯m sure we can catch a lot!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea! Then we can have them for dinner, too.¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    Cui Ling nodded excitedly before running off enthusiastically to prepare the rod.


    Not too long after, the few arrived at the bank of Linghu Lake. Sang Wan gazed afar at theke which was about 0.3 hectares wide. The gentle waves rolled yfully across the surface, sparkling under the light. asionally, a white waterfowl would sweep low across the surface. Broken branches were scattered along the banks nearby, giving a conceivable view when the lotus flowers bloomed in the summer.


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Originally, this wasn¡¯t ake but a sloppy piece ofnd that would umte water every summer. It would not usually drain after half a month, so I had people dig it into ake and draw water from a nearby water source, then dig a drainage at the northeast corner of theke for it to be what it is today! I did not expect that rearing crabs, along with nting lotus and water chestnuts, would result in such a scenery!¡±


    ¡°Then it¡¯s all thanks to Sir¡¯s efforts!¡± Sang Wan smiled. Deep down, she thought to herself, More importantly, it¡¯s because you have the money ah! With riches, you can change anything!


    Shi Fengjuughed and revealed, ¡°In fact, I like the way it has be!¡±


    ¡°Sir, Ma¡¯am,e quickly!¡± Cui Ling had already raced forward and jumped onto the boat. She was waving back at Sang Wan and Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Little Cui, be careful!¡± Shi Fengju raised his voice andughed as he pulled Sang Wan along.


    ¡°No worries, I¡¯m not afraid! I just have to take a bath if I fall into the water!¡± Cui Ling giggled.


    Shi Fengju and Cui Ling carefully helped Sang Wan onto the boat and to a seat before Cui Ling smiled, ¡°Ma¡¯am, hold on tight. We¡¯ll be going off to harvest some water chestnuts!¡±


    ¡°Do you know how to ah? Be careful!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s heart pounded heavily as she watched the littless, who was standing, sway at the bow of the boat.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be fine!¡± Cui Ling swayed, and a brilliant smile showed on her face.


    Shi Fengju sat next to Sang Wan and chuckled, ¡°Thatss is like a wild animal, so there¡¯s no need to worry too much. She can take care of herself! How does it feel? Are you feeling used to the boat? Do you feel dizzy?¡±


    Sang Wan actually did feel a little scared because this was her first time on a boat. After the boat had left the familiar bank, how could she not feel somewhat uneasy when her surrounding was now all water and she was floating over it? Her body slightly stiffened, and she clutched the side of the boat tightly, but she shook her head and smiled to say, ¡°I¡¯m fine, this feels so rxing. It¡¯s good!¡±


    Shi Fengju then instructed Cui Ling to row a little more slowly before smiling at Sang Wan. Heforted, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯m here!¡±


    Sang Wan subconsciously raised her eyes to gaze at his deep and dark eyes, and her cheeks immediately flushed with red. The wind blew gently across theke, bringing with it a unique smell of vegetation and water.


    She darted her eyes slightly to escape his gaze, but her heart was pounding uncontrobly inside of her.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s lips twitched a little. There were numerous times when the words were already at the tip of his tongue, but he would be hesitant to let them out. Thinking too much always led to being afraid, and he was afraid that he would not get the response he expected most.


    After all, he did not attempt to hide his dislike and disgust towards her when she was first married in, so how could he request her to reciprocate the same feelings he had towards her now?


    ¡°Ma¡¯am! Look over there, there are so many water chestnuts!¡± The small wooden boat stopped, and Cui Ling dropped the scull. Grinning from ear to ear, she walked over to the side of the boat and leaned herself against its side before reaching out to pick those water chestnuts near the surface. The water chestnuts were dark brown and had a pointy end like the ends of a bull¡¯s horn. They were norger than a thumb, small and uniquely shaped.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, for you!¡± Cui Ling plucked seven to eight water chestnuts and threw them into a basket before giving them to Sang Wan. With eyes sparkling, Cui Ling grinned, ¡°Ma¡¯am, have a taste! Those have grown to a right size so they¡¯ll surely be sweet and refreshing. As for those, they¡¯re a little old, but they¡¯ll taste good when pan-fried! There¡¯s still more in front! I¡¯ll pick a few more, then Ma¡¯am can bring them back to give Mistress and the rest to have a taste too!¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡± Sang Wan smiled and she took a water chestnut from the basket before peeling it.


    ¡°Youss, have be more thoughtful!¡± Shi Fengju could not help but smile.


    Cui Ling giggled and swayed as she turned around.


    Faint traces of water dribbled down Sang Wan¡¯s fingers and she could smell the fresh fragranceing from the water chestnut in her hands. However, the shell of the water chestnut was slightly hard and not easy to peel off. The boat swayed slightly to a side, and Sang Wan, who was not paying much attention, identally poked her finger with the tip of the water chestnut. A sharp pain surged through her and a tiny droplet of blood formed on her fingertip. ¡°Ah,¡± Sang Wan could not help but cry out softly.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong!¡± Shi Fengju, who originally was looking at her with a smile, was startled and grabbed her slender white finger before sucking at the wound with his mouth without thinking. He coddled, ¡°Does it hurt? You should¡¯ve been more careful!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face was already flushed red and had her head lowered, not daring to look at him. Shi Fengju remained oblivious and hurriedly seized the handkerchief that was on her waist before carefully wrapping it around her fingers. Feeling concern for her, he babbled to himself, ¡°We¡¯ll wipe some ointment on itter when we get back. You should be careful, don¡¯t touch the water and any dirty things!¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt, it¡¯s just a tiny wound. It really doesn¡¯t hurt!¡± Sang Wan said softly, not daring to look up.


    ¡°You still have to be careful even if it¡¯s a small wound. What it gets infected!¡± Shi Fengju frowned. After he was done tending to her wound, his heart was finally at ease and he went to peel off the shell of a water chestnut, revealing its tender flesh. He hovered it near her lips and said, ¡°Come, I¡¯ve peeled it off for you. Eat it.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face flushed, redder and warmer. She could not help but turn her head to nce at Cui Ling. Seeing that her gaze was not on them but at theke ahead, Sang Wan heaved a sigh of relief.


    At this point in time, Shi Fengju also regained his senses. He looked down at his actions and they were indeed questionable. He could not help but feel awkward. However, it would be even more awkward if the hand that had already been stretched out was retracted back. Shi Fengju was now at a loss of what to do.


    Fortunately, Sang Wan seemed to have felt his good intentions. She opened her mouth and gently took a bite at the water chestnut. The faint fragrance spread across her mouth and she nodded, barely squeezing a smile, ¡°Indeed, this taste delicious.¡±


    Shi Fengju was finally happy again. He simply refused to retreat and made her have a few more bites before saying, ¡°If you like it, I¡¯ll peel another one for you!¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine!¡± Although that one water chestnut left a lingering fragrance in her mouth, she in fact, did not taste anything when she swallowed a mouthful of it. Her heart pounded crazily and her mind was slightly dizzy, there was no way she could ept another round.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll eat them when we get back!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and did not insist. Taking a glimpse at the woman in front of him whose face was flushed with red from embarrassment, the more he looked, the likable she was; like the lotus flowers on the water.


    ¡°Sir, Ma¡¯am! This entire area is filled with water chestnuts! Let¡¯s stop and pick them here!¡± Cui Ling stopped rowing and eximed.


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan looked out at the waters. Indeed, the area they were in now had clusters of water chestnuts all over the water. It was a pleasant sight.


    ¡°You go ahead, and be careful!¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    ¡°Okay!¡± Cui Ling answered before cing a wooden basin on the surface of theke. Carefully, she stepped into it before sitting down. The basin swayed gently with the waves, and Cui ling stroked the coolke with her hands. Seeing the curious look on Sang Wan¡¯s face, she warmly invited, ¡°Ma¡¯am, do you want to try? It¡¯s really fun!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am will not be going!¡± Shi Fengju quickly pulled at Sang Wan¡¯s sleeve, almost as if she was going to give in to the suggestion.


    Cui Ling put out her tongue yfully and giggled, ¡°Then, Sir and Ma¡¯am can fish for prawns there. My father and I came here before, there are many down below!¡± Cui Ling then paddled off, harvesting the water chestnuts with her little hands before throwing them into the basin.


    ¡°Thisss is so bright!¡± Sang Wan could not help but praised.


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°If you like her, how about bringing her to the household to serve you after a year or two?¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly shook her head with a smile, ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary! She lives well with her family, and she shouldn¡¯t be holed up in the household!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and shook his head, ¡°You ah. Sometimes, you¡¯re just too kind-hearted.¡±


    ¡°Are you saying that I should not?¡± Sang Wan looked askance at him.


    Shi Fengju was taken aback by her words, and he let out augh, ¡°No, no, how isn¡¯t it good!¡±


    He had a pampered smile on his face which made Sang Wan¡¯s face turn slightly flustered again and she quickly avoided his eyes.


    The line hooked with a chicken bone, which had already been dropped by Shi Fengju, soon shook slightly in the water. Pulling it up, a finger-sized prawn had its pinchers mped tightly at the chicken bone.


    Sang Wan could not help but exim while pping her hands in excitement, ¡°Wah! What arge prawn!¡± Thiske truly is plentiful ah!


    ¡°You like it?¡± Shi Fengju smiled and carefully handled the prawn before throwing it into a bamboo basket. Pulling Sang Wan close to him, he said, ¡°Have a go at it!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sang Wan smiled and took the rod from Shi Fengju¡¯s hands before throwing the line back into theke again. Soon after, half the basket was filled with prawns andughter could be heard from across theke.


    All the way until the sun began to set, the three finally took the boat back to shore while chatting happily. Sang Wan wondered how long it had been since she was able to rx, away from all the tiring matters. The leisure life in the forest was indeed the mostfortable.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, you must be tired! Quickly,e inside and take a rest!¡± Auntie Cui hurriedly went out to invite them in. Helping Sang Wan into the house while smiling, she said, ¡°Ma¡¯am, Sir, please wash your hands first. The crabs have already been washed and prepared. Once they¡¯re steamed, they¡¯ll be really tasty. When they¡¯re ready,onu will serve them up!¡±


    ¡°Please do! Also, take these prawns and cook them using Auntie¡¯s best seasonings!¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    ¡°I will, I will! Laonu shall go now!¡± Auntie Cui smiled, ¡°These fresh water prawns can be boiled slightly and then served with a dipping sauce. They¡¯ll be delicious! Ma¡¯am, you¡¯ve got to have a good taste ofonu¡¯s cooking skills today!¡±


    ¡°Keke, we¡¯ll be here for three to four days, there¡¯ll be plenty of days for us to taste Auntie¡¯s awesome skills!¡± Shi Fengjuughed.

 Chapter 102: The Coming of A Good News

    <h4>Chapter 102: The Coming of A Good News</h4>


    ¡°That¡¯s great! Laonu will surely not disappoint Young Master and Ma¡¯am¡¯s expectations!¡± Auntie Cui grinned.


    Therge steamed crabs were served onto the table at night. They were meaty and especially delicious, apanied with some finely chopped ginger and rich vinegar, together with a pot of brewed glutinous rice and a jug of chrysanthemum rice wine. With no need to hesitate and serve from the side, dinner soon finished quickly.


    Initially, Sang Wan had thought she could really rx for a few days, but unexpectedly, after a good night of sleep and breakfast the next morning, two horses galloped quickly to the country house, and two horsemen called out loudly for Shi Fengju and Sang Wan when they were just about to take a stroll outside.


    Shi Fengju raised his brow slightly and asked, ¡°To think that Servant Jin woulde here personally. What brings you here?¡± Servant Jin was the second most capable servant in Shi household. For him to havee here personally, the reason must be of no small matter.


    ¡°Let¡¯s invite him in first before listening to what he has to say!¡± Sang Wan could not help but feel slightly nervous.


    ¡°Young Master, Ma¡¯am!¡± Servant Jin jumped off the horse and threw the reins before rushing up to them, panting heavily.


    ¡°Young Master, Ma¡¯am! This servant has brought with him good news!¡± Servant Jin expressed a smile while still panting heavily.


    ¡°Good news?¡± Sang Wan and Shi Fengju were both startled.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart sank a little. Good news? There shouldn¡¯t be anything happening in the household recently unless that Gu Fangzi has taken advantage of their absence in the household and carried out her wicked ns!


    To Sang Wan, that might as well be a disaster rather than good news, but it might not necessarily be so for the young master standing beside her. Sang Wan could not help but cast a quick nce at Shi Fengju.


    Unintentionally, Shi Fengju did the same with a confused look in his eyes. Just like Sang Wan, his heart was also pounding heavily with the exact same thoughts about Gu Fangzi. What that cousin of his could aplish, Shi Fengju was now absolutely clear. His cousin was no longer the cousin he once knew and understood.


    ¡°Alright! Take a deep breath before speaking slowly! Just what news has caused you to be in such a hurry!¡± Shi Fengju flicked his sleeve unpleasantly as he frowned at Servant Jin.


    However, there were only smiles on Servant Jin¡¯s face, almost as if he had taken no notice of his master¡¯s re. He wiped the beads of perspiration off his forehead before eximing, ¡°This servant apologizes, this servant apologizes! Young Master, Ma¡¯am, please return to the household quickly. Second Young Master Sang has returned from Hangzhou! Second Young Master Sang even came in first! It is indeed good news!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s eyes glistened. She was stunned in disbelief, and she was clenching her hands tightly as she asked, ¡°Did you say, my second brother came in first?!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother Yufei is back? That¡¯s great!¡± Shi Fengju rejoiced too.


    ¡°Yes ah, yes ah! He¡¯s now in the household! The mistress was so happy that she immediately sentonu to bring this good news. Young Master and Ma¡¯am, please return to the household quickly!¡±


    Uncle and Auntie Cui, as well as the rest, all rejoiced when they understood the news before kneeling to give their congrattions.


    ¡°Enough, enough!¡± Sang Wan merrilyughed before telling them to get up. At the thought of wanting to reward them, Sang Wan suddenly recalled that she hade unprepared. Thankfully, Shi Fengju smiled towards Uncle Cui, ¡°Every servant in this household will earn a month¡¯s worth of bonus! Remember to put that under my ount!¡±


    Uncle Cui and the rest of the servants quickly thanked them before adding, ¡°Laonu will go and prepare a carriage for Young Master and Ma¡¯am. We wouldn¡¯t want any dys, would we!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother passed, he really passed! That¡¯s great, that¡¯s really great!¡± Feeling somewhat incoherent, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes became teary, and she couldn¡¯t stop her face from expressing a smile.


    Father was very knowledgeable, but all his life, he had been unable to make it past the examinations. Big Brother has already been talented at an early age, but because all his efforts became fruitless, he chose to abandon the path to avoid the pains his father took! But this time, Big Brother and Father can finally hold their heads up high because of Second Brother!


    ¡°Sang Wan,e, let¡¯s go. We¡¯ll return now!¡± Watching how she might copse from happiness, Shi Fengju held onto her arm tightly to support her.


    That jerked Sang Wan back to reality, and she quickly cast aside the excitement and sadness in her heart before smiling at Shi Fengju gratefully.


    The journey back was quick. In less than two hours, the carriage had arrived at the Shi household from the quiet mountains.


    The servants in the household were all joyous, and upon seeing them return, they quickly went up and greeted them. It might have just been a wrong impression, but the greeting sounded more respectful and ttering than usual.


    The two first returned to the small garden to have a change of clothes. In the small garden, they found that Nanny Li and Liu Ya had already gone to Wang Shi¡¯s ce. Wang Shi, as well as all the important members of the Shi family, was present to receive Sang Yufei, andughter could be heard from the house.


    Since the two families were inws, Sang Yufeiing in first for the examinations brought no harm but benefits to the Shi household. Of course, the Shi members could only be happy. Furthermore, at the thought of Sang Yufei being able to help prepare and guide her youngest son for the examinations, the smile on Wang Shi¡¯s face simply turned broader.


    Although Third Uncle Shi was an official, it was a position that was rewarded to Shi family for transporting a batch of important imperial goods to the court: a district magistrate. At that time, Wang Shi was confident that her husband would be the one to receive it as he was the eldest after all! But who knew that the most reputable man would hand that position to the third house. Wang Shi was somewhat dismayed after the incident and had kept it to heart since then. Soon after, Third Uncle Shi held onto the position as an official of Sichuan and had not returned ever since. Like the emperor above, the third house became distant and was of no help to the Shi family¡¯s business. Not just Wang Shi, but the entire household members basically omitted him. However, now that the Shi family came a top scorer, the entire atmosphere was joyous.


    When Sang Wan and Shi Fengju arrived, Sang Yufei quickly got up and greeted them with a smile. There was an unspeakable surge of emotions that only the pair of brother and sister could feel once they looked at each other.


    ¡°Aiya, what are all of you still standing for! Quickly, have a seat ah!¡± Wang Shi smiled. The more she looked at Sang Yufei, the more satisfied she became about him.


    Before, she had always had this impression that he was a gentleman with wits. Now, even after bringing home with him first ce, he remained humble and was still the same person who treated others respectfully and politely. What a good man! But a sudden thought suddenly came to her mind: What a pity! If only there was still a niece avable to get married! Such a good man, what a waste for him to end up with another family¡¯s daughter!


    Once everyone was seated, they chatted and had a good time. It was then that Shi Fengju imed that Second Young Master Sang must be tired and that a feast was to be held that night.


    Wang Shi and Second Old Master Shi agreed. Wang Shi then added with a smile, ¡°Yufei, you should stay for a few days! I even sent someone to call my Fenghua back to greet you! Keke, maybe he can gain the blessing of our top scorer!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s lips twitched a little. Indeed, the treatment now was different ah! Before the examinations, her mother-inw would definitely not call her third child back from the academy for fear of disturbing him from his studies. But now, it was different. Sang Wan was delighted that her mother-inw valued her second brother.


    Sang Yufei hurriedly smiled and said politely, ¡°I do not wish to refuse Aunty¡¯s hospitality, but I have to hurry back home to bring news to my brother and sister-inw! I¡¯ll meet with Brother Fenghua the next time Ie again, and I hope that he will not dislike me! Speaking candidly, auntie¡¯s words really do make me blush with shame!¡±


    ¡°The top scorer sure knows how to speak! Oh, just why does it sound so pleasant to the ears! But indeed, I must be getting old and foolish. You should go back to report the good news! But don¡¯t forget toe back and stay in our household for a few more days, keke! Don¡¯t treat us as strangers!¡± Wang Shi grinned.


    ¡°Our top scorer, please have a good rest. There is good wine at my ce that tastes pleasant but not potent. You can drink a few more cups at night, and you still won¡¯t miss the road tomorrow! Ah, Shi Fengju, why don¡¯t you send our top scorer back personally!¡± Second Uncle Shi smiled.


    Shi Fengju cast a nce at Sang Wan before nodding his head, ¡°Second Uncle Shi¡¯s right. Tomorrow, Sang Wan and I will send Brother Yufei together and see if there¡¯s any help we can provide at the same time!¡±


    Sang Wan was delighted, and she nced at Shi Fengju gratefully. Of course, there would be areas which required assistance. Sooner orter, friends and neighbors from different viges woulde to give their congrattions. With only Big Brother and Sister-inw, as well as Nanny Xu, the crowd would be too much for them to handle.


    ¡°Oh yes, oh yes. Please do!¡± Wang Shi agreed with a smile.


    ¡°Thank you Auntie, Second Uncle, and Brother-inw!¡± Sang Yufei thanked altogether.


    Once everyone else left, Sang Yufei cast a nce at Sang Wan. She smiled before inviting him to sit awhile in the small garden. Shi Fengju knew the two siblings would have lots to say to each other, so he excused himself with business to handle.


    In the small garden, the servants kneeled and praised. Sang Wan smiled as she rewarded them before taking a seat with her brother. The siblings felt that everything was surreal, and they let out a yful sigh.


    ¡°No one will dare to look down on our family now! Especially Father and Big Brother, no one will ever dare to do that!¡± Sang Wan grinned from ear to ear.


    ¡°I¡¯m also the happiest about that,¡± Sang Yufei smiled. Looking at his younger sister, he said, ¡°And you too, no one will look down on you in the Shi household anymore. Of course, I¡¯m sure no one dared to do so in the past. Brother-inw really does treat you well!¡±


    ¡°Second brother!¡± Sang Wan forced a smile because her heart was feeling somewhat bitter. The change he had, as well as his treatment towards her, it wasn¡¯t as if she had not felt it. But, the thought of Peony Park, as well as the cousin living there, was enough to shatter all the good and make her feel ufortable.


    ¡°Okay, okay, okay, let¡¯s not talk about it!¡± Sang Yufei chuckled and took it that she was just bashful. After keeping his smile, he became serious and let out a sigh, ¡°Tomorrow when I return, Brother and sister-inw are fine, but Second Uncle and Second Aunt¡ª¡±


    Sang Yufei wasn¡¯t the only one who wrinkled his brows; even Sang Wan could not help but be concerned. ¡°Ah yes, Second Uncle and Aunt... who knows what¡ªwhat¡ª ai!¡±


    They would surely use their seniority to take all the credit for themselves! They would be saying things like, if not for them, Sang Yufei would not have seeded! And with Big Brother¡¯s sense of loyalty, there was no way to win against their eloquent uncle. If Big Brother remained silent, their sister-inw would have no way to interject and might even be scolded for being not virtuous!


    As the younger generation as well as the main party involved, Sang Yufei could not go against Second Uncle and Aunt, or else word would get out that he was disrespectful towards his elders and was being arrogant after tasting sess.


    Bringing home with him such shocking news, there would surely be those happy for him and those who would actively seek to find fault in him to exploit him.


    ¡°That isn¡¯t a big deal,¡± Sang Yufei sighed, ¡°Because you¡¯re my sister, the words that I cannot openly speak to others, I can with you. What I¡¯m worried about the most is Second Uncle and Aunt going around using my name to create trouble. If someone were to take it to heart, then things would get troublesome!¡±


    Sang Wan shuddered at those words and her expression changed, ¡°That, that mustn¡¯t happen!¡±


    With Second Uncle and Aunt¡¯s character, she believed that what they feared the most might actuallye true.

 Chapter 103: Dinner with the Top Escorted Examinee

    <h4>Chapter 103: Dinner with the Top Escorted Examinee</h4>


    Sang Yufei raised his brows, and there was a glimmer of light in his eyes as he smiled to say, ¡°After the announcement, I n to hurry home. I believe the earliest I can reach home is by tomorrow. The grouping to announce the good news should arrive in town on the day after. Sang Wan, tomorrow when you return, find a ce to stay the night first. I¡¯ll go back first and do some preparations beforehand.¡±


    Sang Wan leaned her head on one side as she nced at her second brother before grinning. ¡°Does Second Brother have a ploy to make Second Uncle and Aunt on the losing end?¡±


    Sang Yufeiughed and shook his head, ¡°It can¡¯t be called that since the result still lies in Second Uncle and Aunt¡¯s hands. It all depends on what they would do!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good enough that Second Brother has a n, but it¡¯s best to let Big Brother and Sister-inw know of it first! If it isn¡¯t something disastrous, Big Brother will definitelyply. Big Brother has always treated us the best after all!¡± Sang Wan smiled, and a gust of warmth seemingly seethed into her heart.


    ¡°You¡¯re right! Big Brother and Sister-inw are the best of the best in this world!¡± Sang Yufei could not help but sigh. Even though their sister-inw had a sharp tongue and would give him a stern re asionally, she had always treated him well. She would put those around her ahead of herself; when the weather was chilly, the first warm clothing she made was his! If not for her selflessness and her support, would he have been able to focus entirely on his studies and be where he was today?


    On that thought, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes became teary, but she managed to force a smile. ¡°Sister-inw¡¯s kindness didn¡¯t go in vain. It¡¯s also a blessing that you were able to catch a boat back! This must all be heaven¡¯s will!¡±


    It was necessary to note and understand that the imperial examination was the biggest and most important cultural event within the country. It impacted promotions and evaluations of local officials as the participants brought glory to the local officials when they seeded, indicating the effectiveness of their governing while also promoting development of the culture. As such, before the results were publicized, the local officials had sent a small team of officials to return with news the first thing, and it was announced through a channel meant only for officials, which was rtively quicker than any other channels.


    Sang Yufei looked at his sister with his eyes wide open, ¡°Sang Wan, you don¡¯t know? After the examinations, Brother-inw sent someone to look for me while I was waiting for the results to be announced. I was able to return so quickly all thanks to the person arranged by Brother-inw!¡±


    If not for him, he wouldn¡¯t havee to Shi household on such a high note. Even if he were toe to meet with his sister, he would have done so more discreetly.


    With the Shi household¡¯s capability, getting hold of a boat to ferry them swiftly was no problem.


    ¡°What!¡± Sang Wan was startled. She had not heard from Shi Fengju about this at all! For everything that Shi Fengju had done for her, she was entirely grateful to him.


    ¡°It seems you really didn¡¯t know!¡± Sang Yufei revealed a smirk before chuckling, ¡°Maybe Brother-inw wanted to give you a surprise! Hehe!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother!¡± Sang Wan couldn¡¯t hide her embarrassment, and she pouted as she red at him.


    ¡°Alright, alright, I won¡¯t make fun of you. You should carry on with what you¡¯re busy with, I¡¯ll leave now!¡± Seeing her flushed face, Sang Yufei smiled, but he still had to ponder how he should carry out his n tomorrow.


    ¡°Then, please have a good rest in the guest house, Second Brother!¡± Sang Wan went to instruct Liu Ya to see him to the house.


    After Sang Yufei had left, Nanny Li, Zhide, and the rest of the servants in the small garden gleefully went up to Sang Wan before kneeling to congratte her. Sang Wan smiled and asked them to rise before instructing Zhide and Hong Ye to prepare some mary reward.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, regardless who it is, no one can shake you off your position anymore! In theing years, when you give birth to a sessor, your title as the wife of the Shi family¡¯s head will forever be yours!¡± Nanny Li smiled towards Sang Wan.


    ¡°For Second Brother to have this day, I¡¯m truly happy for him!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s of course! Even our Shi family got to share in the limelight!¡± Nanny Li grinned before instructing Zhide and Hong Ye, ¡°Pack more into the pouch. There¡¯s sure to be moreing to congratte our ma¡¯am!¡±


    Sure enough, servants all around the household, including those who held high positions to those and even the important servants belonging to the two concubines from the Second House, came soon after. Sang Wan received every one of theirmendations and gifts before rewarding them. It was a busy moment for her.


    Thereafter, Shi Lian arrived. With a smile, she called out to Sang Wan as she stepped into the small garden.


    ¡°Third Sister! Come in and have a seat!¡± Sang Wan smiled and went out to invite her in.


    ¡°Sister-inw, congrattions!¡± Shi Lian bowed with a smile.


    ¡°Thank you, sister!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly went to help her to a seat before ordering the servants to serve tea.


    The two were more intimate than before, and Shi Lian apanied Sang Wan to chat for a long while before getting up to leave.


    At this very day, everyone had smiles on their faces, all except for two. And they were Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian.


    Shi Yumei found it all uninteresting. Her husband was also a schr, knowledgeable, and had made famous poems before. What¡¯s more, he was also older than Sang Yufei. However, it was a pity that he had to miss this year¡¯s examinations. Now, everytime she looked at Sang Yufei, she would feel particrly ufortable. And because he was Sang Wan¡¯s brother, he was even more of an eyesore.


    It was even more unamusing for Ren Zhixian as his mind circled in denial, convincing himself that he would have been the one toe in first ce and not that Sang family¡¯sd had he himself participated!


    ¡°I think Mother¡¯s really bing foolish! What does the Sang familying in first in the examinations have to do with our family? Is there even a need for us to fawn over him! Even Second Uncle, who usually remains uninterested, even came to join the crowd! Just look at those two Sang members, acting all mighty now! Hmph!¡±


    In Banana Courtyard, Shi Yumei was extremely unhappy.


    Ren Zhixian sneered and scoffed, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t say that about Mother-inw, Second Uncle, and the rest. After all, the Shi household had never produced a top scorer before. Now that a rtive has finally done so, they¡¯re finally freed from their vicious fate, so that¡¯s to be expected!¡±


    ¡°I still think they¡¯ve turned foolish! There¡¯s no need for our family to gain reputation from a broken family!¡± Shi Yumei red at her husband and continued, ¡°It¡¯s all because of you and you injuring your foot. Otherwise, that title would have been yours and would never have been his in the first ce!¡±


    Those words were like a dagger slicing at his heart, but that made him feel even more confident, and he let out a sour sigh, ¡°Of course it would have! But fate was not on my side! Ai, this time is such a pity!¡±


    Shi Yumei raised her gaze to look at him. ¡°There¡¯s still a next time! Next time, you have to buck up and bring home that title for me! That will let the Sang family, Mother, and everyone else see who the real gifted schr is.¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression turned somewhat dull, and he seemingly wandered into his own world of thoughts.


    Venting his dissatisfaction was one, but when it came to applying his knowledge, Ren Zhixian was somewhatcking in confidence. After all, he was clear of his own intelligence.


    ¡°Ai, did you hear me or not! You have to fight for us!¡± Shi Yumei yelled at him.


    ¡°I hear you! I hear you!¡± Ren Zhixian answered impatiently, ¡°With his age, how many books has he studied and how much knowledge has he gained? I think it¡¯s only because his luck was good this time, like a blind cat who caught a dead mouse! Either that, or the one assessing the examination was blind! As if he¡¯d be at my level!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes lit up, and she asked rhetorically, ¡°Do you think that maybe he might have paid off someone?¡± But she quickly shook her head, ¡°That shouldn¡¯t have been possible! Where would their family even find the money?¡±


    On the other hand, Ren Zhixian remained fixated on that suspicion and said, ¡°That¡¯s difficult to say for certain! The Sang family may not have money, but doesn¡¯t your Shi family have a lot? The Shi Ma¡¯am is, after all, his own sister!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s also possible!¡± Shi Yumei nodded, despising Sang Yufei and his luck even more.


    The two decided on their own spection, and although they did not report their baseless usations to the officials, their devious n seemed to coincide with each other. If he can pay off others, why can¡¯t we? After all, the Shi household isn¡¯tcking any money. Why should others be able to y cheap while we can¡¯t?


    During the feast at night, other than the missy who was yet to be married, everyone else was present at Wang Shi¡¯s ce. Needless to say, the dishes were sumptuous, and the wine was refreshing.


    Second Uncle Shi¡¯s two concubines, Concubine Shui and Concubine Fang, were present as well. They came wanting to see the top scorer for themselves. They often went up to him with words of praise and offered him a cup of wine before stepping back.


    Wang Shi, Second Uncle Shi, and the rest were even more enthusiastic to entertain Sang Yufei, while Sang Wan also shared the spotlight with him.


    That made Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian even more unhappy. Their faces stiffened, and they forced a smile which could hardly hang on to their faces.


    Other than his own sister and brother-inw, most of the other members at the table were elders. Sang Yufei did not dare to excuse himself, and he toasted with every one of them. When Ren Zhixian¡¯s turn came, he raised his cup and toasted with Sang Yufei before gulping thest of his wine. Acting all pompous, he patted Sang Yufei¡¯s shoulder and advised, ¡°Young man, you must always be on guard against arrogance and continue to work hard! The examination you took was just the beginning, and there¡¯s definitely lots of luck in y. But the conference examination after it will truly test your actual knowledge! Many who scored well in the township examinations had actually ended up dropping out from the list during the conference examination!¡±


    No matter how Sang Yufei tried to interpret those words, they sounded absolutely ufortable to the ears, but he had never liked topete with others in squabbling. With his expression unchanged, he nodded with a smile, ¡°My brother-inw is right, Yufei understands! In the entire country, the number of talented people in the country is many, like the uncountable hairs on a cow¡¯s tail. Compared to the great wise men, Yufei is but a frog at the bottom of a well!¡±


    Shi Fenghua was called back by his mother. He was only three years younger than Sang Yufei, and fortunately, the two had a simr temperament. Before dinner, the two happened to run into each other, and a bond formed between the two after a small conversation. After hearing Ren Zhixian¡¯s bitter words, he felt that those words did injustice to Sang Yufei, so he smiled and said, ¡°Second Brother Sang, you¡¯re being too modest. You came in first and are now a top escorted examinee! There are many talented and renowned people in Jiangnan, which equates to more than half, around the region. By being the first in the whole of Jiangnan, you¡¯re basically the top in the nation. Who knows, obtaining the degree as an advanced schr might be easy for you. And maybe, you might even be awarded the top thesis schr!¡±


    [TLN: Sang Yufei went to Hangzhou for the township examinations (an imperial examinations). Jiangnan is a region consisting of many major cities, including Hangzhou.]Hearing so, everyoneughed. Second Uncle Shi raised his cup jokingly and conducted a toast to their future top thesis schr. Everyone cheered and raised their cup, but Sang Yufei remained humble as ever. On the other hand, Ren Zhixian was feeling even more dissatisfied.

 Chapter 104: Ren Zhixian Feeling Sour

    <h4>Chapter 104: Ren Zhixian Feeling Sour</h4>


    Shi Fenghua then praised again with a smile, ¡°Second Brother Sang is indeed humble and truly modest. Really, this calls for admiration! Second Brother Sang, let me propose a toast to you!¡±


    ¡°Many thanks to Brother Fenghua!¡± Sang Yufei raised his cup with both hands before smiling. ¡°Under the tutge of a wise senior from Hanlin Academy, Brother Fenghua is knowledgeable and has an even better character! The brief conversation that we had just now was undoubtedly extraordinary. If Brother Fenghua doesn¡¯t mind, can we find another time to better discuss again?¡±


    ¡°Of course! I was thinking the same as well! Second Brother Sang, you have to teach me, too!¡± For a moment, Shi Fenghua was ted. For all three generations, the Shi family only had him who was gifted enough to study, putting major pressure on him. Having someone, who had taken the examinations and returned with a top score, guide him would surely be beneficial for him.


    Wang Shi only understood half of what they said, but what she did understand was that her son was seeking to have Sang Yufei guide him and that Sang Yufei was willing to do so. That made her overly happy, and she warmly gestured everyone to eat before inviting Sang Yufei to stay a while longer in theing days. That night, dinner in the Shi household was very lively.


    Ren Zhixian watched as people flocked to Sang Yufei, and the words he said to him just then were easily brushed away without giving them a careful thought! Hmph, what a hatefuld! To think he¡¯d do thed a favor by giving him some advice that ended up not being appreciated.


    Feeling vexed, he coughed lightly before asking Sang Yufei, ¡°Oh, right, would you mind revealing this year¡¯s township examination topic to us?¡±


    Although puzzled at why that person would ask that at the dinner table, Sang Yufei smiled and said so since Ren Zhixian already asked.


    Ren Zhixian suddenly mmed the table with his palm before saying with a sigh, ¡°I can¡¯t believe that this year¡¯s topic was so easy! Ai, what a pity, what a pity ah! If only I could have taken the examinations this year! What a pity! For such an easy topic, getting the top score is a breeze! It¡¯s too easy! Oh yes, I wonder how well Brother Sang actually wrote his essay!¡±


    Hearing that, even with his self-control, Sang Yufei turned unhappy, and the smile on face stiffened. How could he say it that way? Just when he was about to reveal his essay, Shi Fenghua smiled and replied, ¡°Brother-inw, we shouldn¡¯t be discussing about this over dinner! Why don¡¯t we find another time to let Second Brother Sang write out his essay? Brother-inw can also write one on the topic as well, then we can hold a discussion about it.¡± Then, he added, ¡°I also wish to see Brother-inw¡¯s great work as well!¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but cast his younger brother a nce. Deep down, he was amazed how his brother-inw could be so unlikeable that his younger brother¡¯s words became thorny even with his character.


    But it was a shame that Ren Zhixian did not feel that way about Shi Fenghua¡¯s words. Instead, those words brought him joy. He interpreted them as Shi Fenghua¡¯s seeking for his guidance, and he praised in his heart, This younger brother-inw is way more tactful than that Sangd! As such, he smiled and nodded before ncing over at Sang Yufei, ¡°Brother Fenghua¡¯s words were exactly my thoughts! It would be an honor to be able to do so!¡±


    ¡°Aiya, the three of you can go on with that after dinner mah! Come,e,e, let¡¯s eat!¡± Second Uncle Shi pointed his chopsticks at a nearby dish. Hearing him so, everyone at the tableughed.


    Ren Zhixian straightened his back before having a glimpse at Second Uncle Shi from the corner of his eyes. What an unrefined person! And you only know how to y with birds and fishes, so what do you even know!


    After dinner, everyone went to the flower pavilion to chat and have tea to help with digestion. After a while, the members of Shi Second House left. Wang Shi also felt tired after a day of excitement, and so the crowd dispersed.


    Ren Zhixian, on the other hand, must have gotten a screw loose in his head, and he earnestly invited Sang Yufei and Shi Fenghua to Banana Courtyard to have a seat inside his study room. Sang Yufei and Shi Fenghua could not refuse and ended up following.


    ¡°What do you think of my study room? It¡¯s decorated nicely right? Don¡¯t you think it fits the word ¡®elegant¡¯?¡± Pushing the door open, Ren Zhixian immediately swerved his head proudly and recited a few of his own poems as he felt pleased with himself.


    What could Sang Yufei and Shi Fenghua say? All they did was nod with a smile, but their hearts thought in unison, This isn¡¯t even your house, and this study room isn¡¯t even your Ren family¡¯s property. Really, just where in the world does that pride of yourse from!


    ¡°Keke, to decorate this, I¡¯ve spent a lot of thought into it!¡± Ren Zhixianughed out loud before turning to Shi Fenghua, ¡°This is what you call a real study room, a room most suited for studying. Here, your mind is calm, and you won¡¯t feel impulsive! You have to understand that the environment greatly affects the state of your mind. Brother Fenghua ah, when I have the time, I¡¯ll help you redecorate your study room while I¡¯m at it!¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s words weren¡¯t seeking for Shi Fenghua¡¯s opinion. His tone was arrogant, almost as if having him help redecorate the study room was a blessing to be grateful for and therefore must be thanked upon!


    ¡°No need, no need!¡± Shi Fenghua could feel goosebumps flooding across the surface of his skin. The suggestion startled him, and he quickly refused with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m already used to the one I have! There¡¯s no need for brother-inw to bother!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble, no trouble at all! We¡¯re rtives, so there¡¯s no need for Third Brother to feel reserved!¡± Ren Zhixian simply could not sense Shi Fenghua¡¯s intention to refuse and went for a more enthusiastic approach.


    Sang Yufei raised a clenched fist near his mouth to hide his chuckle before ncing at Shi Fenghua sympathetically.


    Shi Fenghua quickly returned a helpless look as he was unsure whether tough or feel embarrassed!


    ¡°Really, Brother-inw, there¡¯s no need to,¡± Shi Fenghua forced a smile. ¡°I¡¯m already used to how my study room looks. I think not changing it would be better, lest it be unfamiliar to me! Moreover, I¡¯m often lodging in the academy and rarely evere home during the year, so really, there isn¡¯t any need to! Oh Brother-inw ah, I do feel somewhat thirsty!¡±


    That brought Ren Zhixian back to his senses, and he quickly invited them in to have a seat. With a loud yell, he called Cui Bao in to serve tea, ¡°Oh, how could I¡¯ve forgotten to invite you two in to have a seat! But you¡¯re right, it¡¯s better not to change it since you¡¯re used to it already!¡±


    A momentter, Cui Bao entered, wearing a pink coat embroidered with roses and a pink wavy dress. A brilliant luster of jade hung on her waist, held loosely together with a shackle. Her tied hair was long and hung by both sides of her face with a vermillion flower stuck beautifully. As for her face, it was powdered heavily and her brows were drawn. Her waist was slim and her body would sway as she moved, disying an extraordinaryzy charm, almost like a beautiful and loving woman who woke up not too long ago.


    ¡°Come quickly and serve tea to the two young men!¡± Ren Zhixian smiled the moment his eyesnded on her. He was captivated by her, so his smile beamed like a blooming flower.


    ¡°Sir, please have some tea!¡± Casting a nce at Ren Zhixian, Cui Bao acknowledged petitely. Bending her back a little, she ced a tea tray down before her fingers with red painted fingernails. She then brought the tea cups to Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei. Her fingers held onto the cup without putting them onto the table, as if waiting for the two young men to reach out their hands to receive it.


    Who knew that Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei would only exchange gazes with each other and sit motionlessly with no intention to move a finger.


    Their eyes only contained their disgust for her. What a shallow! Just one look and she¡¯s definitely not something good!


    Cui Bao raised her brows gradually as she didn¡¯t seem to find her own behavior strange. She really believed that everyone was like Ren Zhixian who praised her and kissed up to her!


    ¡°Sirs, have some tea!¡± But even so, Cui Bao wasn¡¯t foolish. She did not feel awkward when the two young men had no intention to take a cup. Instead, she observed their attire and passed a cup of tea first to Shi Fenghua, who wore a grander attire than Sang Yufei.


    ¡°Put it here!¡± Shi Fenghua sulked without looking at her.


    Cui Bao had never been given such treatment before. Feeling insulted, she nibbled on her lips lightly while ncing at Ren Zhixian surreptitiously.


    Ren Zhixian was also feeling a little unhappy, but he did not express what was currently in his mind. Cui Bao is my underling. Treating her like that right in front of me, aren¡¯t you just outright trying to embarrass me!


    However, he smiled dryly before speaking to Cui Bao, ¡°He is the Shi family¡¯s youngest young master, Shi Fenghua. If he asked you to put it there, put it there. Be more alert!¡±


    After hearing that this handsome young man who was dressed elegantly was a young master of Shi family, Cui Bao¡¯s eyes immediately glistened. The little amount of grievance in her eyes disappeared almost instantly, and she quickly disyed a sheepish smile. She responded delicately before cing the tea cup down.


    The third child of the Shi family¡¯s Main House ah, to think he¡¯d be this elegant, a dragon among men! Compared to Ren Zhixian... Cui Bao could not help let out a regretful sigh, like a flower on a dry tree bark.


    At first, when the procuress said she would be bringing them to the famed Shi family in Qingzhou, the lot of them were overly thrilled. Believing that she could have a good life ahead of her when she was picked among the rest, she finally had a chance at tasting bliss for a good moment. Using every means possible, she was sure she would be able to stand on her own one day.


    But who knew that on the first night, she had her deed done. That man was not someone actually born in the Shi family. Instead, he used his wife¡¯s name to send the request!


    That knocked Cui Bao back from blissfulness, and she cried silently to herself. The Shi household was the parental household of the man¡¯s official wife. Regardless of how greatly she was doted on, she could never be an official wife. If she were to anger the Shi family, who knew when she might get resold!


    Now that she had seen Shi Fenghua upfront, Cui Bao was frustrated and wanted to vomit blood at a single thought, Why wasn¡¯t the one who made the purchase this young master instead ah!


    Cui Bao was slightly frustrated at herself, and she paid less attention while serving tea to Sang Yufei. ¡°Sir, please have some tea,¡± Sang Yufei gently breathed out the air he held in as Cui Bao tly stated before cing the tea in front of Sang Yufei without him asking.


    Ren Zhixian was secretly delighted at the sight. This Cui Bao was so sweet ah, she was able to read his intentions! Without him even saying anything, she was able to sense his dislike towards the Sang family¡¯sd and even served his tea thoughtlessly.


    That burst of delight gradually seeped onto his face, and he scolded Cui Bao with a smile, ¡°Cui Bao ah, don¡¯t be rude. That is Young Master Sang, the brother of our Shi household¡¯s Ma¡¯am. He¡¯s also this year¡¯s top escorted examinee!¡±

 Chapter 105: A Beautiful Gift

    <h4>Chapter 105: A Beautiful Gift</h4>


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s actual meaning was: Do you see that? Even if you, a Sang family¡¯sd, were the Shi family¡¯s Ma¡¯am¡¯s younger brother and a top escorted examinee, you aren¡¯t anything brilliant! My Cui Bao will not spare even you a nce!


    But who knew Cui Bao would get startled. The Shi family¡¯s Ma¡¯am would be the mistress of the household in the future ah! Her brother was not someone she should offend! What¡¯s more, he was also the top escorted examinee ah!


    ¡°Cui Bao was disrespectful and seeks for Sir¡¯s forgiveness!¡± Before Ren Zhixian could react, Cui Bao had immediately kneeled down towards Sang Yufei with a bashful smile that was sweeter than honey.


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s face turned slightly twisted, and he was unhappy, but he was the one who chided her. Regardless whether she did so in good faith, her taking the opportunity was not something he could speak of.


    Sang Yufei was feeling even more ufortable than Ren Zhixian. With an awkward smile, he epted the apology.


    Cui Bao chuckled demurely, ¡°The top escorted examinee is indeed gentlemanly!¡± That made Sang Yufei¡¯s stomach churn, and he almost barfed.


    Shi Fenghuaughed to himself at the sight. That¡¯s what you get forughing at me just now!


    ¡°Come,e, drink some tea, drink!¡± Ren Zhixian was not pleased, and he gave a cough before raising his cup.


    However, Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei were already disinterested in their cup of tea. The two followed, raising their cups to their lips, just for show.


    Ren Zhixian did not seem to have noticed. After a cup of tea, his mood was instantly lifted, and he began wording his words excessively using lots of historical allusions to identify with Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei¡¯s understanding. Shi Fenghu and Sang Yufei were forced to exchange words with him perfunctorily.


    Cui Bao silently stood behind Ren Zhixian, but her pair of lively eyes would take a glimpse at Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei from time to time. The more she looked at them, the more she liked them, to the point where Ren Zhixian was pushed to the mud deep inside her heart.


    Seeing how Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei were answering him with servility, the two had almost no words during the exchange except some vague remarks such as ¡®You¡¯re right!¡¯, ¡®That¡¯s right!¡¯, ¡®Yes!¡¯, and a few others with simr meaning. Basically, he was just talking off the top of his head. He was secretly delighted, and he thought to himself, These twods are still inexperienced. Compared to me, they¡¯re far behind! His self-esteem was greatly satisfied, fueling his arrogance. He looked towards Sang Yufei, but there was not as much disgust in his eyes as before. Thed was, after all, a bookworm to not even know what it meant to be an ¡®outstanding¡¯ schr! From top to bottom, he was neither elegant nor was he outstanding! What a pity, what a pity ah!


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s arrogance rushed to his head, and he suddenly became more generous. With a smile towards Sang Yufei, he said, ¡°Brother Sang can now be considered as having a foot into bing an official. Was there someone whom you like who cared for you and supported you from behind?¡±


    Shi Fenghua could not help but be in awe, ¡°Brother Sang is truly admirable! Not only does Brother Sang have a good character, but you¡¯re also both filial and respectful!¡±


    However, Ren Zhixian did not think so, ¡°How can that be fine? What¡¯s done is done, but you¡¯re now a top escorted examinee. If there¡¯s no one to serve and support you, you¡¯ll be a joke and an insult!¡± With that, he waved his hand before turning his head to point at Cui Bao, ¡°What do you think of thisss?¡±


    Sang Yufei was taken aback and he forced a smile, ¡°...Good, I guess.¡± How could there be such a person who would ask others to judge his servant? Sang Yufei shook his head disapprovingly to himself, but did not give it much thought.


    But who knew that what was toe would give Sang Yufei a greater shock! All he heard was Ren Zhixian who was grinning senselessly, ¡°I also think thess¡¯s not too bad. She¡¯s clever and knows how to serve in the study room. Since Brother Sang thinks so too, I¡¯ll give thisss to you. What do you think? In the future, you¡¯ll have a beauty in the night to add vor as you study! Hahahaha!¡± Ren Zhixian supposed he was being generous, and he let out a pompousugh.


    Cui Bao was overjoyed. Her eyes shimmered as she gazed towards Sang Yufei, and with her delicate neck lowered, she was exceedingly lovely.


    To be with the top escorted examinee was, of course, much better than this odd, inconsistent, and shabby schr.


    ¡°No need, no need!¡± Just the thought of this woman which belonged to Ren Zhixian was enough to make Sang Yufei¡¯s stomach churn in disgust. There was no way he would want her, and he quickly refused, ¡°How can I ept that? I dare not receive and would wish for Brother-inw to withdraw the arrangement!¡±


    ¡°Ai, that¡¯s nothing!¡± Ren Zhixian only understood Sang Yufei as being too embarrassed to ept, so he became even more generous by saying, ¡°For us schrs, sharing the good things we have is an elegant thing to do. Brother Sang, there¡¯s no need to feel reserved!¡±


    Shi Fenghua could no longer hold himself back. With a fist clenched, he chuckled into it as he nced at Sang Yufei with enjoyment expressed in his eyes.


    Sang Yufei didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry, but there was no way he was going to ept any dirty or stinking things thrown at him. In a moment of desperation, he shook his head and refused, ¡°I do not wish to rob you of your precious, hence my request still stands! Besides, I¡¯ll be rushing off to take another exam at the capital in due course and do not wish to be distracted. However, Brother-inw¡¯s kindness is enough and I¡¯m happy to receive! Please forgive my refusal!¡±


    Cui Bao was extremely disappointed and anxious. With a sorrowful look, she said to Sang Yufei, ¡°Does Sir dislike Cui Bao that much?¡± Then, she looked towards Ren Zhixian, revealing her grievance.


    Ren Zhixian was also somewhat unhappy with Sang Yufei for not knowing how to appreciate a favor and for tainting such a beautiful instance. But upon hearing Cui Bao¡¯s words, he became unhappier and he thought to himself: Do you dislike me that much, or do I not have an eye for people?


    ¡°Oh Brother Sang, don¡¯t you see how you¡¯re hurting this beauty¡¯s heart? We¡¯re gentlemen, how can we not bat an eye!¡± Ren Zhixian spoke, seemingly serious or as a joke.


    Sang Yufei acted as if he had not heard him, and he nced at Cui Bao, ¡°Missy, what are you implying? Does Missy not wish to stay by Brother-inw¡¯s side and serve him? We¡¯ve all witnessed how well Brother-inw treats you, so don¡¯t you think your words were a little cold?¡±


    ¡°I¡ªCui Bao didn¡¯t...¡± Cui Bao became more anxious in that instant and her expression changed.


    She should have kept silent. Unlike Ren Zhixian, acting and thinking on her own was a sin. That was the difference between master and servant.


    Sang Yufei¡¯s words immediately made Ren Zhixian ufortable. Being cast aside by a beauty, that would be the most embarrassing thing to happen for a man!


    ¡°Then, Missy, please serve Brother-inw well! Don¡¯t take advantage of Brother-inws favoritism!¡± Sang Yufei¡¯s eyes darkened.


    Cui Bao was taken aback, and she immediately knew there would never be a chance for her to leave Ren Zhixian¡¯s side. Her gaze immediately fell on Ren Zhixian and she implored affectionately, ¡°Yes, nubi will serve my master properly!¡± With that, she then said pitifully to Ren Zhixian, ¡°Master, Cui Bao doesn¡¯t wish to leave! Cui Bao doesn¡¯t wish to part to Master! Please Master, please don¡¯t send Cui Bao away!¡±


    Shi Fenghua grinned broadly, ¡°Brother-inw, since the missy has already said it, I¡¯m sure Brother-inw wouldn¡¯t refuse her especially since Brother-inw is a person most fond of women! I think this matter should rest here!¡±


    ¡°Urgh, that¡ª¡± For a moment, Ren Zhixian hesitated and the unhappiness in his heart vanished.


    Sang Yufei once again declined sincerely, and Ren Zhixian finally let out a sigh, ¡°Alright then. Since that¡¯s the case, nevermind then. Keke, next time, your brother-inw will buy you a more fitting one. I gurantee, just one look and Brother Sang will not regret!¡±


    Although those words were said, Sang Yufei just listened with a foolish smile withoutmenting. After exchanging nces with Shi Fenghua, the two stood and excused themselves, remarking on how the night was no longer young.


    After leaving Banana Courtyard, the two happened to sigh at the same time, almost as if they had just walked through a perilous cave. The two looked at each other and could not help butugh.


    As theyughed, Shi Fenghua suddenly felt there was a need for him to apologize. After all, Ren Zhixian was his sister¡¯s husband. After a cough, he sighed, ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened to my brother-inw, but he didn¡¯t use to be like that. It may be because he studied too much and became pedantic, but his studies is actually not bad!¡±


    In the past... Shi Fenghua could not help but recall the day when his brother-inw went to receive his sister on their wedding day. On the third day when they returned to visit Mother, who wouldn¡¯t praise his brother-inw¡¯s manners and elegance? Who wouldn¡¯t im that his sister was fortunate to be able to marry such an outstanding man!


    At that time, he was eight and only began studying. He admired that man! Just when did he begin to show changes? All the way to now, he seemed to have transformed into an entirely different person!


    Sang Yufei also felt it was rude of himself to be making fun of someone else, and he nodded, ¡°He indeed has a good grasp of his studies, but if he truly is knowledgeable, he wouldn¡¯t have said all those words!¡±


    The two exchanged a few more words with each other before parting to rest as Sang Yufei had to return on the road the next morning.


    By the time Sang Wan and Shi Fengju left Wang Shi¡¯s ce and was on their way back to the small garden, Sang Wan finally expressed her gratitude towards Shi Fengju for helping her second brother. Her mood was great, and sheughed and talked with him. And unknowingly, her heart got closer to him which gave him a sense of bliss he could not express.


    ¡°Sister! Big Cousin!¡± Who knew that the moment when they stepped into the small garden, Gu Fangzi appear out from a cluster of hibiscus nts, wearing entirely white except for her blue cloak, together with Lan Xiang.


    Sang Wan¡¯s mood dulled, and a look of vexation furrowed Shi Fengju¡¯s brow.


    ¡°Why¡¯re you here?¡± Shi Fengju questioned.


    Gu Fangzi smiled faintly as she went up to give her congrattions, ¡°I heard that Sister¡¯s elder brother has emerged as the top escorted examinee. I¡¯m also happy for Sister and thought toe here to express my best wishes. But who knew I would be early, so I waited here for Sister to return! Sister, congrattions ah!¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Sang Wan smiled and invited her, ¡°Come in and have some tea! You ah, the air tonight is very chilly. If you caught a cold standing out here, that wouldn¡¯t be good! Don¡¯t do that next time. If we aren¡¯t around, you can go back first, just your well-wishes from your thoughts are enough!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was slightly disappointed for she assumed Sang Wan would say words along the line of ¡°Why don¡¯t you go in and wait?¡± That would have given her the chance to enter the small garden whenever Sang Wan wasn¡¯t around. But who knew she was asked to go back instead!

 Chapter 106: Bringing Home a Good News

    <h4>Chapter 106: Bringing Home a Good News</h4>


    ¡°Sister is right, Fangzi has received Sister¡¯s teachings and epts the guidance wholeheartedly!¡± Gu Fangzi responded with a gentle smile, her domineering attitude seemingly vanished.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t call it a teaching. I¡¯m only telling you that because if you were to fall ill, I¡¯ll also be at fault! Quickly, why don¡¯t youe in?¡± Sang Wan smiled and invited.


    ¡°Thank you, Sister, for your concern!¡± Gu Fangzi lowered her gaze as she smiled. Taking a few steps forward, she separated Liu Ya from Sang Wan without a word and intimately held Sang Wan¡¯s arm while going in.


    Shi Fengju could not help but observe Gu Fangzi carefully. There was no telling what was going on in her mind!


    Ever since Gu Fangzi¡¯s attempt to tempt him by undressing herself, he had lost all feelings for her. Even the string that tied them together as rtives were almost non-existent.


    After Sang Wan sat down, Gu Fangzi then officially gave her congrattions and blessings, so much so she might as well give her praise to the Sang family and Second Young Master Sang. Without a choice, Sang Wan rewarded her with an embroidered pouch and smiled at her eloquent words which were supposedly auspicious. Deep down, Sang Wan was even more puzzled than Shi Fengju: Did she ate a wrong medicine?


    What she did not know was, Gu Fangzi purposefully did so was for Wang Shi, Shi Yumei, and Shi Fengju to see. She was in disbelief when she heard from a servant serving her dinner that Sang Yufei had be a top escorted examinee. But once she returned from her senses, her heart remained sour!


    Sang Wan, Sang Wan, her brother had managed to be a top escorted examinee. In this lifetime, there was no way she could fight with Sang Wan on status now! And if her brother were to be an advanced schr next year, there would no longer be a day where she could live with her head held high.


    After scouring for several news, Lan Xiang returned with description of the liveliness within the household. Gu Fangzi gritted her teeth angrily as she listened, and her dinner was left almost untouched.


    After a long while of calming herself down, she instructed Lan Xiang to find out when Shi Fengju and Sang Wan could be leaving Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard as she went to prepare herself. Soon after, Gu Fangzi and Lan Xiang left for the small garden and they waited.


    Didn¡¯t Big Cousin always want her to remember her position? Fine then, she shall disy that for him to see! That was the only thing she could do now, and her only means to fight.


    ¡°Sister truly is fortunate! Only people as outstanding as Sister can get to enjoy such happiness! And even better still, our Shi family gets to enjoy this grace as well!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled humbly.


    ¡°Sister Fangzi¡¯s words are too overly embarrassing! We¡¯re rtives, words like grace would only let others feel embarrassed!¡± Sang Wan smiled, ¡°The night isn¡¯t young anymore. Sister Fangzi should also return to rest now.¡±


    ¡°Then I shall take my leave, I¡¯lle again to chat with Sister!¡± Once Gu Fangzi got up, she wanted to bid farewell to Shi Fengju as well.


    Arriving at the small garden, Shi Fengju imed his head was feeling slightly giddy after a few cups of wine and went to lie in another room.


    ¡°The young master is resting in another room. Laonu thinks there is no need for Miss Gu to go in to save the trouble! Later when the young master gets up,onu will report to him!¡± Nanny Li said.


    ¡°Then thank you, Nanny Li! Sister, I¡¯ll take my leave now! Rest early too!¡± Gu Fangzi seemed to havecked the disposition she once had for she nodded towards Nanny Li, and even thanked her with a smile.


    ¡°Take care!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    After giving Sang Wan time to recover from the shock, Nanny Li smiled at her without feeling awry, ¡°Ma¡¯am, just look! In the future ah, Miss Gu won¡¯t be able to act all haughty in front of you anymore! Now that she understands her position, Ma¡¯am can finally be at ease!¡±


    ¡°Nanny! Please check whether the hangover soup is ready and serve a bowl to Sir. I should go and rest soon since tomorrow¡¯s going to be a big day!¡± Sang Wan smiled. However, she was still feeling puzzled as to why Gu Fangzi would behave in such a way. To believe that Gu Fangzi would retreat tactfully, Sang Wan was inclined to not believe so.


    ¡°Ah,onu must be getting foolish!¡± Nanny Liughed, ¡°Laonu shall personally go to the small kitchen to take a look! Oh,onu will also serve a bowl to Young Master Fenghua and Second Young Master Sang!¡±


    ¡°Yes please!¡± Sang Wan nodded with a smile.


    After Shi Fengju drank the soup, the two went to sleep without a word.


    On the next morning; Shi Fengju, Sang Wan, and Sang Yufei bidded farewell to Wang Shi and the rest. Together with Zhan Huan and a handful of servants, they left for Yangliu Town.


    The carriage drove smoothly without rest, and they arrived at Yangliu Town nearing noon.


    Sang Wan had already exined clearly to Shi Fengju; the moment they arrive at the town, Zhan Huan was to book several standard rooms and a deluxe room in the best inn to rest.


    After having lunch in a restaurant, Sang Yufei hired another carriage and left for home soon after, wearing his own cloth hat and robe.


    After receiving news that Sang Yufei had rushed home from Hangzhou, Sang Hong and Fang Shi went to wee him warmly. The two brothers then greeted each other the instant they met.


    ¡°The announcement will arrived in a few days time, so why don¡¯t you stay at home at rest? Getting home safely is all I asked for. Even if you didn¡¯t score well this year, there¡¯s still some other time! You¡¯re only neen this year; you¡¯re still young! Just treat this time as a practice to gain experience, that¡¯s more than enough!¡± Sang Hong smiled.


    ¡°Your brother¡¯s right ah! The most important thing is you¡¯re back home safely! There¡¯ll surely be a day when you¡¯ll score well, and even if not, there¡¯s always the fields to work on!¡± Fang Shi also smiled.


    ¡°Ai, how could you say that?¡± Sang Hong guarded unhappily soon after she spoke even though her words were almost aligned with his inner thoughts.


    Fang Shi involuntarily returned a re and said bluntly, ¡°What? Why can¡¯t I? It¡¯s not like my words were wrong ah! We¡¯ve still got to get by in this unkind world until our eyes fully closes! Yufei, don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    It had been long since Sang Yufei heard his brother and his sister-inw bicker with each other. He felt close and warm with them, and he could not help but smile towards his brother, ¡°Sister-inw¡¯s just being practical, but she¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°Heard that?!¡± Fang Shi said with a snap, ¡°At least Yufei understands!¡±


    Sang Yufei could not help but smile. After pondering for a moment, it would be better to tell his brother and sister-inw of the good news as soon as possible since they were truly concerned for him. Hiding the news from them would just be inconsiderate of him!


    The words in his mouth weighed a thousand times heavier, and after clearing his throat with a few coughs, he cupped his hands and bowed towards his brother and sister-inw, ¡°Big Brother, Sister-inw! I¡¯ve passed the township examinations and bring pride to Big Brother and Sister-inw¡¯s teachings! Many thanks to Big Brother and Sister-inw for taking care of me all this while!¡±


    Sang Yufei¡¯s eyes became teary as he kneeled in front of them.


    The news was a great shock to them and they stared at Sang Yufei nkly.


    Seeing that Sang Yufei didn¡¯t seem to be pulling their legs, the two jumped from their seat almost immediately, ¡°Really? Passed? You really passed?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Big Brother! I really passed!¡± Sang Yufei smiled, his eyes glistening.


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear! That¡¯s good to hear! Burn the incense sticks today to let our Late Father and Mother celebrate with us!¡± Fang Shi grinned and quickly went to nudge Sang Hong, ¡°Quickly, go and help Yufei up! What are you standing there dumbfounded for!¡±


    ¡°Quickly, get up, get up! You shouldn¡¯t be kneeling on the floor!¡± Almost as if returning from a dream, Sang Hong¡¯s body shook before he hurriedly went to help Sang Yufei up. A distinguished talent who passed the college examinations has no need to kneel to a government official. Better yet, a person who passed the township examinations would be acknowledged by others and even the country magistrate would have to cup his hands when greeting him.


    ¡°Is, is your news urate? Where did you hear it from? It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t believe you, but, but ¡ª¡± Sang Hong was so happy that his words became incoherent. Because he viewed the examinations of great importance and cared too much for his brother, he found it hard to believe what he had heard.


    ¡°It is. I saw it for myself, it¡¯ll definitely be true! I came home right after the scores were released on the board!¡± Sang Yufei said before moving on to exin how Shi Fengju had arranged his transport as well as his stay in the Shi household the previous night.


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi were full of emotions as they listened and were deeply grateful towards Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Our Sang family finally is able to taste sess! Good, good, that¡¯s good to hear! Yufei, I just knew, you would definitely not let us down...¡± Sang Hong¡¯s eyes were somewhat distant and a smile escaped on his face. It was a smile that would surely be brighter than if he himself passed.


    ¡°Big Brother! This wouldn¡¯t have been possible without Big Brother and Sister-inw¡¯s support!¡± Sang Yufei smiled gratefully, ¡°Big Brother, did you know? I came in top!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Sang Hong and Fang Shi eximed breathlessly as they stared intensely at him with their mouth opened wide enough for their pounding heart to leap out from it.


    ¡°Top? A top escorted examinee? You really became a top escorted examinee?¡± Sang Hong stared nervously at Sang Yufei and asked. He could not help but press on his chest tightly. Oh the heavens, this news is too shocking, it¡¯s really too shocking! If this really was true, he might not be able to contain his excitement! Even if his younger brother was just pulling his leg, it really was a shock to be reckoned with!


    ¡°Really, It¡¯s true! There¡¯s no way I¡¯d make a joke of something so important!¡± Sang Yufei smiled. ncing right at his big brother, he gently shook his arm, ¡°Big Brother, calm yourself ah. It just so happens...¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Sang Hongughed. Because of Sang Yufei¡¯s words, Sang Hong was brought back to his senses and he patted heavily on Sang Yufei¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Yufei ah, you really are capable, really capable! Ourte father can finally be at ease!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah! You¡¯ve finally fought for our family¡¯s glory, I dare say no one would dare mock us anymore!¡± Fang Shi proudly let out a sigh of relief. A literary family, where the father was only able to pass the college examinations, and a brother who passed the college examinations ten years ago but saw no progress after. And with Sang Yufei participating in the township examinations, who knew how many were eagerly waiting to mock him!


    This was just great, this was just great!


    ¡°Aiya, oh my!¡± Fang Shi suddenly pped her thigh.


    ¡°Why did you do that for?¡± Sang Hong red at Fang Shi unhappily.


    Fang Shi red back rudely and said to Sang Yufei, ¡°What do we do about Second Uncle and Aunt...¡±


    ¡°Oh yes!¡± Sang Hong eximed as he stood up. With a broad smile, he said, ¡°We¡¯ve got to inform Second Uncle and Aunt of the good news, keke!¡±


    ¡°You, stand still!¡±


    ¡°Wait, Big Brother!¡±


    Fang Shi and Sang Yufei shouted in unison as they pulled Sang Hong back.

 Chapter 107

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 107</h4>


    The sister-inw and brother looked and smiled bitterly to each other.


    ¡°What?¡± Sang Hong looked at them strangely before smiling, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. This is an extremely big good news. They¡¯ll definitely be happy for us and not otherwise!¡± Surely they wouldn¡¯t ridicule, and create trouble, for us.


    ¡°You, sit down!¡± Fang Shi forcefully pressed him on his seat and red at him, ¡°Use your head a little! Yufei is now a top escorted examinee. He can be considered an important figure in Yangliu Town, who knows how many woulde to bootlick and gift him with gifts! Knowing Second Uncle and Aunt, what do you think they would do? Are you trying to corner your own brother to a cliff?!¡±


    Sang Hong¡¯s expression changed and an obvious amount of cold sweat formed on his back, ¡°Maybe, maybe¡ª they won¡¯t...¡±


    ¡°Do you really think so? Hmph, they stick their nose in Sang Wan¡¯s matters. What makes you think they wouldn¡¯t do it to Yufei!¡± Fang Shi sneered.


    Sang Hong¡¯s heart sank and his hands turned cold. He knew his wife wasn¡¯t wrong. With his second uncle and aunt¡¯s personality, they would surely do so. What¡¯s more, they were the seniors. As the younger generation, there was no way they could talk against them or they would bebeled ¡°unfilial¡±. If Father and Mother were still around, that same principle could at least be used to suppress Second Uncle and Aunt since Father and Mother were older than them. However, Father and Mother are no longer around!


    ¡°Sister-inw is right. I rushed home ahead of the group, who¡¯ll be here to announce the good news, because of this as well.¡± Sang Yufei let out a gentle sigh, ¡°It¡¯s not that I wish to leave them out, but their actions cannot call for any respect from others!¡±


    Fang Shi cast a nce at Sang Yufei and she thought to herself: The top escorted examinee is indeed speaks of a certain standard! Those two¡¯s actions had never called for our respect. How I wish we could expose their actions out to the public!


    ¡°But the group will be here in a day or two, there¡¯s no way you can hide it from them for long ah!¡± Sang Hong frowned. For the sake of his own brother¡¯s reputation, he would put aside his feelings, and even his uncle and aunt too.


    ¡°I¡¯ve an idea that I¡¯d like to try. At least, that¡¯ll be able to keep their mouths shut...¡± Sang Yufei said, before revealing his n to his brother and sister-inw.


    Sang Hong remained hesitant after listening from Sang Yufei, but Fang Shi covered her mouth and praised with augh, ¡°I think that¡¯s not too bad, let¡¯s go ahead with it! Let¡¯s make them utterly speechless!¡± Then again, she sighed, ¡°They know no shame...I¡¯m just afraid that after we go ahead with the n, they might shameless insist on making up to us!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll just go with the flow!¡± Sang Yufei sighed.


    Two outrageous seniors were enough to push the climbing him all the way to the edge of a cliff.


    After the decision was made, Sang Yufei went to change into his old washed out clothes before heading to Sang Pingliang¡¯s house and knocking on his door.


    Li Shi peered through the door viewer and shouted deliberately, ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt, it¡¯s me!¡± With a smile, Sang Yufei raised his voice in reply.


    After a long while, the door finally squeaked open. Li Shi stood cross-legged by the door with a hand supporting on her hip and the other on the side of the doorframe. Taking a quick glimpse at Sang Yufei, she said, seemingly smiling, ¡°Oh, our Xiao Fei is back! How did it go ah? Huangzhou¡¯s a bustling ce, did you have fun there?¡±


    ¡°Not too bad!¡± Sang Yufei smiled sincerely before adding, ¡°Second Aunt, my house has no more noodles so my sister-inw asked me toe over and borrow some flour.¡±


    Would Li Shi obediently lend things to others? Her expression immediately changed and she sneered, ¡°Where would our house have flour? We don¡¯t have that!¡± Then, she added half-mockingly, ¡°Hmph, isn¡¯t your sister-inw being too ruthless? Just look, she didn¡¯t cook a bowl of noodles for you even though you may not have passed this time. Worst, she even asked a ¡®schr¡¯ like you to obtain some flour. Ai, isn¡¯t that so humiliating? Your sister-inw sure is petty! This is but your first township examinations, you¡¯re still young¡ªthere¡¯ll still be a chance for you in the future!¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt, Big Brother¡¯s house really doesn¡¯t have any flour left. Sister-inw said she saw you bought some flour from town. So will you lend us some? It¡¯s not like we won¡¯t return the flour to you!¡± Sang Yufei was getting a little impatient and his words came out somewhat impolite.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that tone! Who do you think you¡¯re speaking to! What? I won¡¯t lend, okay? Do you think I¡¯d let you rob us in the day?¡± Li Shi raised her voice sharply.


    Inside the house, Sang Pingling was also present and he listened to the conversation that was outside his house. His face furrowed with anger as he strode out to scold Sang Yufei, ¡°You uselessd! I apud you for daring to speak that way to your aunt! So you think you cane to our house and vent your frustrations for not passing the examinations? Why don¡¯t you just look at yourself, do you think you can ever dream of passing? Instead of wasting money needlessly, why can¡¯t you just be more rational and go work in the fields!¡±


    It was the hour when all men and women had returned home to have lunch and rest, and had not yet left to resume with their jobs. Although there wasn¡¯t a lot of entertainment in the vige, the curiosity within the vigers still remained. With Sang Pingliang and Li Shi shouting in the middle of the day, it attracted all sorts of folks to watch the scene and arge group soon formed.


    The crowd watched as Sang Yufei helplessly withstood all the criticisms hurled at him from Sang Pingliang and began discussing among themselves while sympathizing with Sang Yufei secretly.


    An older folk could not stand to watch any longer and he tried to persuade Sang Pingliang, ¡°Brother Sang, that boy¡¯s your nephew, can¡¯t you just speak nicely to him? Is there a need to get this angry?¡±


    ¡°This good for nothing! I¡¯ve to strike while the iron¡¯s hot ah, really! Just like that dead father of yours, all you do is take exams after exams without ever listening to others! Do you even have a life to do that?¡± Sang Pingliang let out an angry sigh before justifying himself in front of the crowd, ¡°Who knows how much was spent on that single trip to Hangzhou. Sooner orter, he¡¯s going to end up losing his entire family asset!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right! Careful not to sell away your rice bowl or you won¡¯t even be able to drink any porridge!¡± Li Shi rolled her eyes ruthlessly.


    Sang Yufei going to Hangzhou to participate in the township examinations was a fact the crowd knew. Seeing that he had returned all alone, his old clothes and the glorious Sang family¡¯s history further strengthened the crowd¡¯s conclusion that he must not have made it past the examinations. Of course, Sang Pingliang¡¯s words were right to a certain extent; after all, where would a viger have so much money to spare and not end up ruining themselves? And who had never heard of a schr who passed the college entry-level examinations but ended up not having a coffin and new clothes to bury with him during his death!


    However, the words spoken by Sang Pingliang and Li Shi were not something a senior should say to a junior.


    Sang Yufei turned unhappy and he blurted, ¡°All I did wase to borrow some flour from Second Uncle and Aunt. If you can¡¯t bear to lend some to us, then forget it. But is there a need to say so much? I, Sang Yufei, went to take the examinations without your mary support. You can speak ill about me, but how dare you speak ill of my father as well? Second Uncle, since you do not respect my father, then don¡¯t me me for not acknowledging you as my uncle!¡±


    ¡°Not that we care!¡± Li Shi chided as jets of saliva shot out from her mouth, ¡°Your acknowledgement means no value at all! Then so be it, I¡¯m sure everyone here has heard you clearly! You yourself said you won¡¯t acknowledge us as your uncle and aunt, so if something happens in the future, don¡¯te and find us!¡±


    ¡°You, you, how dare you talk back to us!¡± Sang Pingliang was also furious.


    ¡°You were the one who disrespected my father first!¡± Sang Yufei did not flinch and held his ground.


    ¡°Yufei, what¡¯s going on here?¡± Fang Shi and Sang Hong also arrived. ¡°I only asked you to borrow some floor. How did it end up like this!¡±


    ¡°Ai, taking my things means doing you a favor!¡± Li Shi said sarcastically. ¡°If you were generous enough, why not just buy for yourself? Do you think you can throw the burden to us and take our family¡¯s food to raise him? As if I¡¯d let that happen!¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt!¡± Sang Hong¡¯s face turned dark, ¡°Ah Xian only said to borrow. Even if I have to take care of my brother for a lifetime, I will do so willingly. Second Aunt, please don¡¯t turn our words into something so horrible!¡±


    ¡°Alright then! Go raise him forever! Don¡¯te and borrow from us!¡± Li Shi snorted.


    ¡°Then we won¡¯t borrow!¡± Fang Shi sneered, ¡°What elders? More like cold-blooded people! You can outspeak us, but when have any of you provided any help to us in the past few years? Don¡¯t try to use your seniority to teach us! And since you despise us a lot, then from this day onwards, our family will cut our ties with yours! Even if our Yufei cannot pass the examinations, we will support him willingly and will nevere to for beg at your house! If a dayes when he passes and bes sessful, I¡¯ll really take my hat off if your family doesn¡¯t suddenly want to ride on his coattail!¡±


    Everyone, who was listening, recalled how Sang Pingliang¡¯s family had treated Sang Hong¡¯s family in the past two years and they began to evaluate. Although they could not say too straightforwardly, but Sang Pingliang¡¯s treatment towards Sang Hong¡¯s family had indeed changed.


    ¡°You shrew, you, you¡ª¡± Sang Pingliang pointed a finger angrily at Fang Shi. He had originally hoped that Sang Hong would discipline his wife, but who knew he would remain silent with a stern expression on his face¡ªseemingly agreeing to his wife¡¯s words.


    Even he was being rebellious! Sang Pingliang jumped in fury and sneered, ¡°Alright then! If he were to pass the township examinations, then I, Sang Pingliang, will write my name starting from the back! And even if he begs me to ride on his coattail, I will not ept it!¡±


    ¡°Will he even be able to do so? Maybe unless his ancestors be deities!¡± Li Shi snorted.


    Fang Shi raised a brow and said cynically, ¡°You may talk big now, but who knows, the both of you might abuse your power as our seniors when the timees! Hehe, who in this vige don¡¯t know that Second Uncle and Aunt likes to take advantage of others! If something¡¯s of benefit, surely the both of you wouldn¡¯t refuse!¡±


    The crowd could not help but chuckle among themselves at the thought of how those two had always tried to squeeze out all the benefits they could get. There wasn¡¯t a family who had never been taken advantage of by those two thick-skinned people. Fang Shi¡¯s words were so pleasant to the ears that the crowd softly revealed to one another about those two¡¯s glorious deeds.


    There was no way Sang Pingliang could bear such humiliation! His face turned red in an instant and he scolded, ¡°Enough! When have my words ever been distrustful? I do not take back my own words; we¡¯ll go to Li Zheng¡¯s house now and cut our ties on paper. Best of luck to you two brothers; from today on, your death will mean nothing to us! And don¡¯t ever think about taking anything from me!¡±


    ¡°Really? Second Uncle,¡± Fang Shi sneered, ¡°Who knows, maybe Yufei might pass on his first try! The group announcing the news hasn¡¯t arrived yet, so who can confirm he wouldn¡¯t pass? Won¡¯t Second Uncle like to rethink your decision, else you might regretter?


    ¡°As if! Dream on!¡± Li Shi mocked, ¡°What? Are you suddenly getting afraid? Do you think we¡¯d let your family continue to exploit us? Listen carefully, it¡¯s toote for you to regret now. Go, let¡¯s go to Li Zheng house now!¡±


    ¡°You guys are a family, you shouldn¡¯t be escting your arguments over something so trivial!¡± Someone tried to persuade.


    ¡°Yes ah, yes ah!¡± The crowd echoed.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Fang Shi sneered in disdain.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi were surely not going to be able to endure this humiliation. Their anger had already reached all the way to their head and they were already heading towards Li Zheng¡¯s house.

 Chapter 108

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 108</h4>


    ¡°Fine, if Second Uncle and Aunt insist, then so be it! Second Uncle and Aunt, remember not to forget your words today! I, Sang Yufei, swear on my name, that I will never again step foot into your house!¡± Sang Yufei vowed, ¡°My neighbors, just as you¡¯ve seen, it isn¡¯t I who isn¡¯t being filial, but because Second Uncle and Aunt are much too outrageous!¡±


    ¡°You, how dare you!¡± Sang Pingliang and Li Shi could no longer wait and they hurriedly went to pull Sang Yufei to be on their way to Li Zheng¡¯s house.


    Sang Pingliang suddenly stopped in his steps before ncing coldly at Sang Hong and said, ¡°In your family, only Sang Wan¡¯s the good apple! Only Sang Wan, that child, deserves fondness. As for the rest of you, hmph!¡±


    After hearing those words, Sang Hong and Sang Yufei became frustrated. Because Sang Wan had married into a good family, Second Uncle would certainly acknowledge her. But even so, her brothers were nothing in his eyes!


    How could a person show such favoritism and be this shameless!


    ¡°Alright!¡± Sang Hong smiled bitterly, ¡°In that case, our families shall cut our ties! From today on, we will be strangers! Second Uncle and Aunt will have no need to discipline us anymore in the future!¡±


    For Sang Hong to have said such words, it really made everyone else sigh helplessly.


    ¡°That¡¯s even better to hear, and I¡¯m just about getting tired of worrying for all of you since no good deed goes unpunished!¡± Sang Pingliang grunted coldly before stating clearly, ¡°From today on, I will only acknowledge my only niece from your family! Only Sang Wan that child is worth doting over!¡±


    The crowd who were previously trying to persuade them immediately stopped as they watched with eyes of contempt.


    ¡°Only Sang Wan is worth doting?¡± In the past when Sang Wan had yet to marry into the Shi family, when had they ever showed any care for her? In fact, they were the most against the marriage, gossiping about how she would one day be abandoned by the Shi family and how she should first look at her own family situation before ever thinking about marrying into such a family. Words like such were most gossiped from none other than Li Shi¡¯s mouth!


    The crowd could not help but think that those two could not be considered humans. It was definitely for the best that the two families broke their ties with each other. That way, there would be less gossip to listen to, and who knows maybe that was the beginning step to sess? As such, the crowd followed the two Sang families closely as they headed for Li Zheng¡¯s house.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi, to express their stand, pranced in the front while the two brothers and Fang Shi walked slowly behind. For the two families to have made such a decision, who wouldn¡¯t want to watch? Before even arriving at Li Zheng¡¯s house, almost everyone in the vige already got wind of the news. Those who just joined the crowd would ask those who were already present, and then it would be their responsibility to exin to those who joined after them before letting out a sign altogether.


    ¡°What are you dawdling for? Move quickly!¡± Sang Pingliang stopped and nced behind before shouting coldly at them.


    ¡°I must say, Second Uncle ah, are you really not going to give this a second thought?¡± Fang Shi smiled, ¡°After all, we¡¯re one big family. But if Second Uncle has already decided, then don¡¯t me us for returning the favor fifteen folds!¡±


    ¡°Cut with your nonsense!¡± Li Shi grunted, ¡°We¡¯ve had enough of being burdened by your family! What else do you want? Let me make it clear to you, there¡¯s no room for regret now!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, you¡¯ve said enough already,¡± Sang Yufei said faintly, ¡°We¡¯ll just go with Second Uncle and Aunt¡¯s wish! I, Sang Yufei, has already vowed never to be involved with their family after today!¡±


    ¡°You better!¡± Sang Pingliang sneered, ¡°You¡¯re just like your father, stubborn and self-righteous! Hmph, is being an official that easy? If you can, then I¡¯m sure I can be a saint!¡± With that, he lifted his foot continued forward while urging repeatedly.


    Already, those with the news had already rushed over to Li Zheng¡¯s house and knocked on his door. Briefly, they let him on the details.


    ¡°What a mess! That Sang Pingliang isn¡¯t young anymore, so how could he propose something so outrageous!¡± Li Zheng could not help but frown before letting out a sigh.


    Although Sang Pingliang was unreliable in his eyes, but he was the only elder of the Sang family. He felt it was better to at least have an elder within the family during times of trouble as the authority they have were definitely greater than those of the younger generation.


    His decision was made with good intentions for Sang Hong and his brother.


    Li Zheng waited furiously in his house, while Sang Pingliang and the crowd hustle and bustle over.


    Without waiting, Sang Pingliang snatched the chance to speak his intention with Li Zheng first. Pointing at the two brothers, he med them for not being filial, and in order to avoid getting driven mad, he wishes to break ties with them so that his family and theirs would no longer hinder each other¡¯s road!


    Li Zheng was entirely familiar with the Sang Brother¡¯s conduct, as well as Sang Pingliang¡¯s talent to overstate. Sighing all to himself, Li Zheng could not help but urged, ¡°Since you¡¯re all one big family, why don¡¯t we have the two brothers apologize and cease this absurd situation? Their family does not have a senior to help them make decisions, and you¡¯re their uncle ah, couldn¡¯t you take pity of them? Why bother quibbling with the younger generations?¡±


    Li Zheng¡¯s words were both to persuade Sang Pingliang and to hint at the Sang brothers to make the apology. As he said it, his gaze signaled at Sang Hong to take the opportunity to initiate an apology. If he apologized, Sang Yufei would surely follow. Then with a little more coaxing by him and the crowd, this matter would be over.


    If it were in the past, Sang Hong would have given an apology and not let matters escte. But for the sake of his brother¡¯s future, and after witnessing his uncle¡¯s cold behavior towards them, numerous memories of how his uncle treated them in the past shed in his mind. Forget it, it¡¯s much better to not have this kind of senior! As such, Sang Hong pretended not to have seen Li Zheng¡¯s gaze.


    From Sang Pingliang¡¯s view, it was evident that Li Zheng¡¯s words emphasized his importance and he felt even more pleased. nting his eyes, he nced at the two brothers and snorted haughtily, ¡°You want me to forgive them? Sure, grovel before me and knock your head three times on the floor while swearing never to talk back to me! And Yufei, don¡¯t continue dreaming and start working in the fields. Ah, and give me a bank note of two hundred silvers, then I¡¯ll stop quibbling with them!¡±


    The crowd could not help but let out a sigh from those words. Swearing, groveling, and two hundred silvers? His greed sure isn¡¯t small!


    Even Li Zheng was at a loss of whether tough or to cry. Never had he thought that Sang Pingliang would be so outrageous to such a point.


    ¡°I think just an apology will suffice, they¡¯re your nephews after all! Brother Sang ah, your family only has two daughters, you¡¯ll have to rely on those two young men in the future!¡± Li Zheng urged. He was hinting at Sang Pingliang that with only daughters and no sons, he¡¯ll need to rely on his nephews to give him the final send off! Would there be anyone else he could rely on when his daughters and sons-inw belong to another family?


    His heart immediately went into distress after hearing so and he thought to himself: Oh no! This rtionship, it¡¯s better to cut it off else won¡¯t these be after my assets?


    At the thought of his empty house after his two daughters married off as well as his entire fortune; house; and field ending up his nephews¡¯ hands, Sang Pingliang heart began to ache and he secretly made up his mind.


    ¡°Li Zheng, thank you for your kindness, but I know my family¡¯s matter by heart so there¡¯s no need for you to worry! I would still have to ask you to help me out by producing the documents to sever our two families!¡± Sang Pingliang cupped his hands and said.


    Fang Shi could not help but grabbed the chance to say, ¡°Yufei¡¯s studying expenses are provided by us, so why should Second Uncle worry when we haven¡¯t even said a thing? Or, is Second Uncle jealous and afraid that Yufei might pass all the examinations to be an official, and make our family proud?¡±


    ¡°What nonsense is this wicked woman speaking!¡± Startled that his little secret was picked on, he red at Fang Shi before stressing his point at Li Zheng more strongly, ¡°Did you see that? Just look at how unfilial they are! How dare they talk like that to their senior! Li Zheng ah, you¡¯ve to fight for my justice today!¡±


    Such a behavior cannot be encouraged. Li Zheng frowned and scolded Fang Shi, ¡°Fang Shi, there is no ce for you to speak. Now, apologize! Sang Hong, control your wife properly!¡±


    ¡°Yes, I understand. Li Zheng, I will give an apology for not being sensible and for speaking nonsense!¡± Before her husband could speak, Fang Shi quickly acknowledged her mistake before bowing to Sang Pingliang with a smile, ¡°Second Uncle, it is my bad for offending you and making you mad. Please forgive me and not keep my words to heart!¡±


    It was clearly an apology, but Sang Pingliang¡¯s rage did not die down after hearing so. Instead, it became even more aze and he grunted, ¡°Ignorant woman! Bickering with you will only lower myself! Fine, I¡¯ll make myself clear today. In the future, if Sang Yufei were ever to be the head of our country, I, Sang Pingliang, will absolutely not ride on his coattail! Hmph, everyone, please open your eyes to remember this!¡±


    Fang Shi smiled without a word and silently retreated behind Sang Hong.


    ¡°Li Zheng, please help us with this matter! Even if they were to beg for forgiveness and give me money, I¡¯ll still never forgive them! I still want to live a few more years longer without driven mad into my grave!¡± Sang Pingliang puffed.


    Seeing that the Sang brothers had no slightest intention to mend their rtionship with their uncle¡¯s family, Li Zheng finally gave in. Since they had already steeled their hearts, why botherplicating things even further? Recalling how Sang Pingliang and his family had treated Sang Hong¡¯s, Li Zheng could not help but wonder if he was pedantic. Perhaps, the Sang brothers would have fewer troubles to worry about after the rtionship was broken!


    ¡°Alright then! Since you¡¯ve all ced your trust with me, then I¡¯ll help! Follow me into my house, I¡¯ll write the documents.¡± Li Zheng finally nodded.


    ¡°Ai, thank you so much!¡± Sang Pingliang red at the Sang brothers before being the first to follow Li Zheng into the house.


    Once the documents had been written, Li Zheng read it all over again before asking them whether they would like to reconsider. Without the slightest hesitation, Sang Pingliang ced his fingerprint on them, ¡°There¡¯s nothing to reconsider, thank you Li Zheng!¡±


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei pressed their fingers on the two copies thereafter and the two families each held onto one.


    Sang Pingliang shook the thin sheet of paper that was held firmly in his fingers before saying to the Sang brothers, ¡°Look at this clearly, from today on, I am no longer your uncle! Don¡¯t ever think about eyeing our family¡¯s things!¡±


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei exchanged nces with each other, confused as to what he was saying! Eye his family¡¯s things? When had they ever done that?


    ¡°Second Uncle, when¡ª¡±


    Sang Yufei had only just opened his mouth to speak when Sang Pingliang rudely interrupted him, ¡°Don¡¯t call me Second Uncle. I do not have a nephew like you! Call me Mister Sang!¡±

 Chapter 109

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 109</h4>


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, please go back!¡± Li Zheng said indifferently. He was disheartened for the world to actually have such cold-blooded people.


    ¡°Okay, I will remember that,¡± Sang Yufei gave a thin smile but refused to even call the man ¡®Mister Sang¡¯. Together with Sang Hong and Fang Shi, he bid farewell to Li Zheng and left.


    Sang Pingliang carefully kept his document, and left with Li Shi.


    Although the matter had been resolved, Sang Hong and Sang Yufei left Li Zheng¡¯s house feeling a little miserable ¨C the hurt and disappointment that they felt were indescribable. In the past, the Sang brothers would always initiate their apology and appease their uncle regardless of what happened, so conflicts like this had never been blown up. But who would have guessed that the moment they stopped giving in, matters would escte so quickly.


    Just thinking about it, if they had not given in all those times in the past, would Second Uncle have long broken ties with them?


    Butpared to how Sang Hong and Sang Yufei was feeling, it was the opposite for Fang Shi. She was feeling exceptionally great as she left Li Zheng¡¯s house, with a wide smile stered on her face and her footsteps lighter than ever.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home quickly! We still haven¡¯t had our lunch! Nanny Xu must¡¯ve already prepared it for us!¡± Fang Shi smiled.


    Sang Hong sighed quietly as he looked towards Sang Yufei, and said, ¡°Second Uncle had warned us not to eye his assets, but when have we ever?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know too!¡± Sang Yufei shook his head before reminding his brother again, ¡°It¡¯s no longer Second Uncle, but ¡®Mister Sang¡¯. Remember that, otherwise, we¡¯ll be made fun of if we greet them incorrectly!¡±


    Fang Shi giggled and curled her lips into a sneer, ¡°You guys really don¡¯t know? Well, I do! He doesn¡¯t have any sons but two daughters. He¡¯s afraid that the two of you would yearn for his assets! Heh, it would be miracle if he doesn¡¯t greed for someone else¡¯s possession, even more so to im that others are eyeing his possessions!¡±


    That could really be it! Sang Hong and Sang Yufei looked at each other speechlessly.


    ¡°Enough, enough, the issue is already over so stop thinking about it. What matters now is that we get home quickly! We¡¯ve still got to clean our house thoroughly inside out when we get home; who knows when the group will be here to announce the good news?!¡± Fang Shi smiled.


    ¡°Sister-inw is right!¡± Sang Yufei nodded with a smile as he secretly let out a sigh of relief. He couldn¡¯t wait to see the expressions on Sang Pingliang and Li Shi when they hear the news!


    Needless to say, the trio went home. As for Sang Pingliang and his wife, they headed for home as well.


    When night came, Fang Shi ughtered tworge roosters, a duck, and even fried arge te of eggs, as she prepared a scrumptious meal while the Sang brothers invited Li Zheng and a few of the respected vige elders to eat together. Announcing to everyone present that their house no longer had an elder to speak for them, the Sang brothers voiced their trouble in hopes that the elders would step in to help them in an event a conflict arise.


    At the thought of how few in members the Sang family had since their only closest rtives had cut ties with them and leaving them with a few distant rtives from another province, everyone could not help but feel sympathetic; what¡¯s more, they had even expressed their sincerity by preparing arge meal. As such, the vige elders generously epted their requests.


    The first thing Sang Pingliang did when he got home was the hide the document carefully before bring up the next matter on his mind. Seeing a deted look on his wife¡¯s face, he red at her as he waved his hands in front of her, ¡°Ai, what¡¯s the matter with you? Come back to your senses, will you?!¡±


    ¡°If I may say, I think we¡¯re the ones at the losing end here!¡± Li Shi sighed before going on, ¡°What good is there in breaking ties with them? Would it have been better¡ª¡±


    Even though Fang Shi hated her, speaks sarcastically, and rolls her eyes behind her back, she still had to show some respect towards her elders. Not only that, they could often mooch off from Fang Shi and Sang Hong. But now that the ties between the two families were broken, wouldn¡¯t they not be able to do so in the future?


    Although it felt really good for that moment, Li Shi just had a feeling that something wasn¡¯t quite right.


    After all, they had to respect those who were older than them since they belonged to the younger generation! But most importantly, has Sang Hong¡¯s family ever managed to gain any benefits them?


    ¡°What do you know!¡± Sang Pingliang scolded, ¡°Don¡¯t be fooled by the little things! How could you feel pleased over little gains like that? You unintelligent woman! They¡¯re waiting to gain something even greater from us! Otherwise, why would they be so amodating towards us?¡±


    ¡°How dare they!¡± Li Shi instantly reacted to her husband¡¯s words and fumed, ¡°This old woman isn¡¯t dead yet, they¡¯ll never get a chance!¡±


    ¡°Then what happens after you die?¡± Sang Pingliang questioned.


    ¡°You!¡± Li Shi was furious.


    ¡°What if we died? Who do you think would inherit our wealth and assets?¡± Sang Pingliang said coldly, ¡°We have no sons, but only two daughters!¡±


    Li Shi was dumbfounded, and her face turned pale in that split moment, ¡°Yes, yes ah, a hundred yearster¡ª¡±


    If a family had no sons in a hundred years, all inheritance would go to their nephews. That is the way of the society or there wouldn¡¯t be stories of how a widow got kicked out of the house while the dead husband¡¯s inheritance was divided among his brothers. Sang Hong and Sang Yufei were his closest rtives, and were the most justified to inherit after him.


    Immediately at that thought, Li Shi became even more furious than her husband, ¡°No,no, that cannot happen! How can we give our hard earned assets to outsiders just like that!¡±


    But who else was there to me other than herself? Birthing only daughters and no sons. Li Shi was hit by grief and she secretly shed a few tears.


    ¡°Mister, I think we should just leave Yan¡¯er* at home and let her marry a man into the family!¡± An answer arrived quickly arrived in Li Shi¡¯s head and she pped cheerily, ¡°I think we should go ahead with it! Then in the future, their kid will have our surname to pass!¡±


    [TL Note: Yan¡¯er is Li Shi¡¯s daughter]Hmph, keep dreaming! Sang Pingliang disagreed, ¡°Marry a husband in? Do you think that¡¯s reliable? While we¡¯re alive, we can still bind him tightly and keep him loyal, but what happens when both our feet are raised in the air? With Yan¡¯er¡¯s character, do you think she can remain firm and control him? When that timees, not only will that man do as he fits, all our family assets will belong to him and no longer recognized as ours!¡±


    ¡°Then, then what should we do? Are we going to just let those two brothers inherit what¡¯s ours?¡± Li Shi was at a loss. Sang Pingliang words made absolute sense, there was no way they could still control their son-inw after death! After all, which man would willingly marry in and be another family¡¯s son for the rest of his life?


    ¡°I already have an idea,¡± Sang Pingliang shot a faint nce at Li Shi before speaking indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ve decided to get a concubine.¡±


    ¡°What? A concubine?!¡± Li Shi¡¯s eyes widened and she instantly jumped from her seat, ¡°You, say that again!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you getting agitated for!¡± Sang Pingliang frowned, ¡°You almost gave me shock! If the concubine gives birth to a son, then wouldn¡¯t everything be solved?¡±


    ¡°You, you, you heartless person! I¡¯ve been with you for so many years, yet you¡¯ve the heart to tell me that you want a concubine! You heartless person! I want to die, I don¡¯t want to live anymore!¡± Li Shi fell back onto her seat and began wailing.


    ¡°Keep it down, will you?¡± Sang Pingliang showed no signs of concern as he red coldly into her eyes, ¡°What¡¯s there to fuss over a concubine? The concubine will still have to respect you, and the son she gives birth to will also have to greet you as ¡®Mother¡¯. Hmph, and you¡¯ve the cheek to make a scene! If you think you¡¯repetent enough, then give birth to a son for me!¡±


    s, Sang Pingliang regretted not havinge up with that idea in the past, and that maddened him even more. With a scowl, he went on, ¡°If you were virtuous, you would have already went to find a concubine for me to continue our ancestral line! How dare you have the courage to make a scene now! If we continue down this ¡®dead end¡¯, I would really do away with you!¡±


    ¡°You, you!¡± Furious, Li Shi shivered, but that anger quickly extinguished and she dare not remain dismayed as she waspletely familiar of Sang Pingliang¡¯s temperament. Being sure she could not give birth to a son, if she were to also prevent him from getting a concubine, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult for him to get rid of her if he wishes so. Her parents wouldn¡¯t be able to do much, other than make a scene! After all, there are three ways to be unfilial to one¡¯s parents, and having no sons is the worst.


    ¡°Since Mister wishes for it, then what can I say?¡± Li Shi snorted before adding, ¡°I¡¯ll go around and help you find a missy who¡¯s capable of birth!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to bother,¡± With just a few words, Sang Pingliang eased his wife¡¯s difort. ¡°I¡¯ve decided to make a trip to town. You¡¯ll stay at home and tidy up the house and change the bed mattress before I get back!¡±


    Li Shi¡¯s face immediately turned white and her heart was in turmoil. He is going to town to buy from a middleman! At the thought of waking up to a young missy in the house the next day, Li Shi was feeling overly ufortable and overly jealous that the cold beads of sweat which formed on her forehead turned sour.


    ¡°Mister,¡± Li Shi forced a weak smile and said, ¡°I think we shouldn¡¯t rush this, and slowly ask around to get to know the missies around town instead of buying from a middleman. Those missies bought from a middleman is never good, who knows if they¡¯re trouble!¡±


    Sang Pingliang grunted at her, and said, ¡°That does not concern you! Do you think I¡¯m that foolish? Hmph, that middleman cannot run away, if he were to trick me, then I¡¯ll not let him off! Besides, if I¡¯m not satisfied with my purchase, then I¡¯ll just buy another, it¡¯s not an issue! So don¡¯t you forget to get this house tied up before I return! Do it yourself, and don¡¯t ask Sang Rou to do it since what does thatss know? I¡¯ll warn you, if you dare to do something funny, then get ready to move out from our bedchamber!¡±


    Li Shi was entirely speechless, her heart ached, but she suppressed it by clenching her teeth tightly together, ¡°Mister, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be sure to tidy it up so nicely that you and the concubine will be pleased!¡±


    Just you wait, once you bring her home, just watch how I¡¯ll deal with her! A purchased good still has its benefit since there isn¡¯t a family behind to shelter her from trouble; she¡¯ll be easy controlled! Hmph, once she gives birth to a son, I¡¯ll be sure to sell her off and keep the son!


    That thought relieved Li Shi¡¯s mind in an instant and she didn¡¯t feel as miserable as before. Instead, she went on to get on her husband¡¯s good side, ¡°Hubby, are you thirsty? I¡¯ll brew a cup of tea for you!¡± Striding into the kitchen, she cleared her throat before yelling, ¡°Ah Rou, Ah Rou! Where have you died to? Go and start the fire quickly and boil a hot pot of water!¡±


    On the next morning, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju woke up in the inn. After getting ready, they ordered for breakfast to be served.


    ¡°Zhan Huan has already gone around to inquire, the group with the news will be arriving in town today. I believe they¡¯ll head over to your house tomorrow so let¡¯s stay here for another night before hurrying there tomorrow morning!¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t say no to that. ¡°Okay,¡± Sang Wan nodded with a smile.


    Breakfast was soon served onto the table. Although it was not as extravagant as those served in the Shi household, it was still plentiful. There was fresh shrimp with shredded chicken porridge, ck rice porridge, jasmine rice porridge, dumplings, steamed buns, siew mai, almond tea, lotus leaf tea with cinnamon, cream buns, and pumpkin cakes. There were also a few side dishes toplement the porridge, but those were brought from the Shi household.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, have a taste of this! Nubi specially went to Li Ji to buy this, although nubi isn¡¯t sure if it still tastes the same as those bought in the past!¡± Liu Ya chuckled and stepped forward as she presented a bowl of smooth beancurd to Sang Wan.


    ¡°Oh, how thoughtful of you!¡± Sang Wan smiled before exining to Shi Fengju, ¡°I¡¯ve always liked to eat this, and it¡¯s not often that thisss would buy a bowl for me!¡± As she spoke, she used a spoon to stir the piping hot beancurd before raising a spoonful into her mouth. After a taste, she nodded to Liu Ya with a bright smile, ¡°It tastes just the same, delicious!¡±


    ¡°Then, please have more of it, Ma¡¯am!¡± Liu Ya was d for making the trip and she ushered with a broad smile stered on her face.

 Chapter 110

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 110</h4>


    ¡°It¡¯s great that she cares about you!¡± Shi Fengju smiled as he nced over to Liu Ya ruefully, ¡°You littless, do you only look after your ma¡¯am? Why didn¡¯t you buy a bowl for me as well?¡±


    Not knowing that Shi Fengju was only joking with her, she stuttered,¡± Sir, please forgive me, I¡¯ll buy another bowl right now! I... I didn¡¯t know that Sir likes street food like these as well...¡±


    ¡°Forget it, forget it!¡± Shi Fengju saw her flustered face and he hastily reassured, ¡°I wasn¡¯t being serious, there¡¯s no need for you to buy another bowl! ¡±


    ¡°This girl is quite simple-minded, she can¡¯tprehend your joke!¡± Sang Wan was amused. Seeing how Liu Ya stood awkwardly at the side, she added, ¡°You can head back to eat with the rest, there won¡¯t be a need for you to serve us here!¡±


    Liu Ya remained unassured and did not dare to leave as she casted an uncertain nce at Shi FengJu.


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Hasn¡¯t your ma¡¯am asked you to head back? Go on ahead. I was only joking with you so don¡¯t treat it too seriously!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, this servant will head back now!¡± Liu Ya heaved a sigh of relief as she patted on her chest.


    ¡®Does it really taste that good? Let me have a taste too!¡± Shi Fengju took a look at the silky smooth beancurd and calmly scooped a spoonful into his mouth. Nodding at Sang Wan, he smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s really good. No wonder you like it so much!¡±


    Blood rushed up Sang Wan¡¯s face and she pursed her lips. Seeing how he did not find his actions out of ce, she remained silent to not make things awkward between them.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you like it. Li Ji Beancurd is the town¡¯s long-established shop with many who loves to eat their beancurd!¡± Sang wan smiled gently.


    ¡°Oh, so it is a long-established shop, that exins why it tastes so good! I have to give it another taste!¡± Upon realizing, Shi Fengju took another spoonful from her bowl without any reserve.


    The smile on Sang Wan¡¯s face stiffened, unsure whether she should continue to eat from the bowl or not even though neither options did not seem right.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Why aren¡¯t you eating?¡± Shi Fengju asked on purpose. He was amused by how Sang Wan¡¯s neck turned beef red from embarrassment and found his wife increasingly lovely with each passing day.


    ¡°Alright... err ... I was going to!¡± Sang Wan smiled nervously and took an empty bowl before splitting the leftovers into half for Shi Fengju. ¡°If you like it as well, let¡¯s split it into half!¡±


    ¡°Sounds good, thank you!¡± Shi Fengju grinned and finished his share after a few mouths while looking at her intently.


    Sang Wan savoured her¡¯s with her head lowered as if she did not sense his gaze.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go out for a walk since there¡¯s nothing to do today? On a side note, I haven¡¯t ventured around your town before!¡± Shi Fengju said tenderly.


    Although there were not many ces to visit in the town, it was better than doing nothing in the inn. She then nodded in agreement, ¡°Compared to Qingzhou, there isn¡¯t much to see here. If you don¡¯t find mind, I¡¯ll bring you around!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°There is no need for sightseeing. We¡¯ll just wander about the area!¡±


    After finishing their meal, Liu Ya brought in two new outfits. Shi Fengju¡¯s was a sapphire blue hemp robe, with simple cutting; and Sang Wan¡¯s had a red cross-stitched outer robe made with muslin to match with a white long dress. Their attire was simple yet elegant.


    Wearing such clothing would not attract unwanted attention. ¡°How thoughtful of you!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said to Liu Ya before instructing her to help put on the clothes, followed by grooming her hair and sliding an inconspicuous jade hairpin.


    Once the two got changed, Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go! Bring me to ces you frequent!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯te to the town often and I don¡¯t have any ce I frequent in particr so let¡¯s just venture around leisurely!¡± Sang wan smiled.


    ¡°Sure! Let¡¯s go to where our legs will bring us to!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. Going anywhere with Sang Wan is just fine.


    As the two walked on the street, Shi Fengju could feel the vigor burning in him at the thought of how Sang Wan used to walk on this very street. He beamed radiantly as he began flooding her with questions about the various ces in town. He was overjoyed simply by asking.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s excitement was contagious and Sang Wan could not help but to be influenced by his joyous energy. She started talking more about her past, about the makeup in Hong Hua Tang, the dumpling stall at the far east of the town, and the temple as well as the street performance at the west of town.


    As they approached a stall which was roasting a huge pot of chestnuts, Sang Wan nced at it for a few times. Amused, Shi Fengju went over and bought a bag of hot roasted chestnuts. He held it in his hands and said, ¡°Do you like them? When we return, we can ask a maidservant to peel it for you.¡±


    ¡°The roasted chestnuts only tastes good when it¡¯s hot!¡± She blurted.


    Shi Fengju was taken aback and heughed, ¡°Oh? I have not had it before myself.¡± He took one out and peeled the shell off before blowing carefully at the ash on the surface. Thinking that the chestnut was not clean, his brows creased. He was about to throw it away and take another out to peel but was quickly stopped by Sang Wan.


    ¡°Roasted chestnuts are eaten that way. Don¡¯t worry, you won¡¯t get stomach ache from it!¡± Following that, she ate one herself.


    ¡°Oh... hehe!¡± After seeing how Sang Wan ate without hesitation, he subconsciously looked around before putting the peeled chestnut in his mouth.


    Once the chestnut was dropped into his mouth, the hot aroma went straight into the mouth and it tasted delicious. The buttery sweet vour of the chestnut tasted rather good.


    Speaking of which, he had never ate while walking on the streets, and it made him feel a little ufortable. As for street food such as those roasted chestnuts, it was notmon for him, let alone tried it.


    Seeing how Sang Wan seemed contented and she found nothing strange, he held back his words. After all, it was a rare opportunity for them to head out.


    ¡°It is really quite delicious, but they¡¯re a little heaty. Having a few is enough, you shouldn¡¯t eat too many of them,¡± Shi Fengju smiled and he peeled one before hovering it in front of her mouth.


    That made Sang Wan embarrassed. She took a quick nce at their surroundings before biting at it nervously. However, her teeth almost sank into Shi Fengju¡¯s finger which sent him a considerable amount of pain.


    ¡°Is it very painful!¡± Sang Wan couldn¡¯t care to chew the chestnut in her mouth. She immediately spat it on the floor and held his hand. Seeing how his index finger had two faint teeth marks, her face immediately turned red, ¡°I am so sorry. I...I didn¡¯t do it on purpose......¡±


    As she held onto his finger, he felt warmth seeping into him and numbing the pain. No longer feeling any pain, he smiled at her, ¡°It isn¡¯t painful at all!¡±


    ¡°What a loving couple! Hehe, I feel so envious seeing you two! Young man, how about buying a hairpin or a flower for your wife to wear? My goods are all new, received straight down from Hangzhou and Suzhou! Your wife is so beautiful, she¡¯ll definitely look good with one!¡± An old woman, who wore a dark red dress and carried a bamboo basket, suddenly approached them with a smile.


    ¡°No thank you, it¡¯s fine. Please ask around elsewhere!¡± Sang Wan blushed and wanted to pull Shi Fengju away.


    Feeling entirely happy, Shi Fengju wasn¡¯t going to leave and he asked the woman with a smile, ¡°How do you know that we¡¯re husband and wife? How can you tell?¡±


    The woman caught on quickly and knew what she had said was pleasing to the young man¡¯s ears. This youngdy is clearly dressed like a married woman, and there¡¯s no way the two of you can be so intimate on the streets if you aren¡¯t already a couple! What a silly question to ask!


    Those words remained as thoughts as she spoke with a smile on her face, ¡°One look and I can tell that the both of you are husband and wife, otherwise, what else can it be? Both of you looked like a heaven match. You¡¯ll definitely be loving to each other and willst even at at old age!¡±


    The smile on Shi Fengju¡¯s face deepened and his eyes brightened while he gazed at Sang Wan lovingly. Coincidentally, Sang Wan was also looking at him. Her face flushed immediately and she quickly avoided his gaze. Shi Fengju¡¯s lips curled even more than before.


    ¡°This young man, your wife looks so pretty, why don¡¯t you buy a hairpin for her?¡± The woman said. She found the couple interesting, getting embarrassed over a statement like that. They must be a newlywed couple. Wonderful! Newlywed husbands treat their wives the best and would buy anything for them.


    Shi Fengju looked towards that basket. The hairpins were made by curling silver wires, and the handcrafts were not particrly refined as well. In Shi household, even the maidservants would not wear them. But in the heat of the moment, he was feeling ted over her statements and felt he should at least help her out. In the end, he picked a butterfly hairpin embedded with pieces of agates and turquoise stones before asking, ¡°How about this one? How much is this?¡±


    ¡°Young man, you¡¯ve such refined taste! Among all the things in my basket, this is the best hairpin, likewise for its design! It¡¯s not expensive, not expensive, just three silvers!¡± the woman smiled and said.


    Shi Fengju smiled and fished out some money from his pocket. Although he would always carry money around, he didn¡¯t have any loose change with him. From the notes, he passed the woman a 10 silver note and said, ¡°Take it, no need for change!¡±


    From just her words alone, he felt that the money was well spent!


    ¡°Aiyo, thank you, thank you sir! I wish you and your wife asting marriage and remain loving to each other!¡± The woman was so happy that her entire face wrinkled as she smiled.


    Shi Fengju smiled and nced over to Sang Wan. Looking at the silver hairpin in his hand, he suddenly felt a little unsure about what he was to do with the hairpin. The hairpin his wife wears shouldn¡¯t be this cheap in standard.


    The woman found it amusing. For such a handsome young man, he seemed so simple and honest at the same time. Hopefully, he doesn¡¯t get bullied by his wife as time flies by them. She reminded him with augh, ¡°Aiyo, your wife is waiting for you to put it on for her, what are you waiting for!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face flushed pinkish red. Not knowing what to do or say, she just remained quiet.


    Seeing how she stood still, Shi Fengju thought he should help her put it on just for the asion. Merrily, he slid the hairpin carefully into her hair.


    ¡°Aiyo, look at how it suits yourdy so much! She looks so beautiful wearing it!¡± The woman smiled and pped while she rambled on with more good words.Afraid that Shi Fengju would change his mind, she quickly left.


    ¡°That woman is quite interesting!¡± He rubbed his hand and grinned.


    ¡°The people here are trying to sell their goods, of course their words will all be ttery! You are the head of Shi household, yet you were tempted into believing her!¡± Sang Wan giggled as she red at him.


    Shi Fengju stared at her deeply and said half-jokingly, ¡°Her words sounded pleasant to my ears. I just feel happy from hearing what she said!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face flushed. With her eyes lowered, she carried on to guide him forward.

 Chapter 111

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 111</h4>


    Sang Pingliang was so excited that he could not sleep that night. He tossed and turned as he thought about the type of concubine he should buy. The girl must be in good shape, have a pretty face, and skin as smooth as the surface of a peeled hard-boiled egg. As for the age, 16 or 17 years old would be best. But if she was really pretty and attractive, she can be 18 or 19.


    But most importantly, the price must be cheap.


    Thinking about it, Sang Pingliang hesitated again. The middlemen were always tricky; without a good price, they would never sell their good ones away! If he wanted a young and good one, he might have to fork out twenty or thirty silvers!


    Twenty or thirty silvers! Not just two or three silvers! Sang Pingliang felt his heart ache just from that thought.


    He couldn¡¯t help but sigh. Whatever, if it was just to give birth to a son, what difference does a girl worth thirty or ten silvers make? All he had to choose was someone with a big hip that would be good for giving birth.


    Then, thinking again, why should he mistreat himself! He was already at this age, if he didn¡¯t enjoy his wealth now, he would never get to. This twenty or thirty silvers was worth spending!


    Sang Pingliang finally made his decision to spend, no matter how much it would take to select a girl that he would be satisfied with! Of course, that ¡®no matter how much¡¯ was limited to fifty silvers.


    On the next morning, Sang Pingliang changed into a brand new maroon floral patterned robe after waking up and having his breakfast. After counting his money and tidying his hair, he left his house happily.


    At the door, Li Shi watched him leave. Staring at his back, she gave him a deathly re and hissed at him. When she went back into the house, she vented all her frustrations on Sang Rou.


    Sang Rou remained as per usual, lying low and letting all the frustrations be vented onto her. However, she was secretly gloating over what had happened and was even more excited than her father for the new concubine.


    No matter what, there would be someone else to receive the gunfire in the household as well. Even if this was not advantageous for her, it was not disadvantageous as well. However, it was definitely a blow to Li Shi¡¯s position!


    Sang Pingliang hired a buffalo cart and headed towards town. He was only willing to spend six coppers. Because Sang Pingliang was miserly, the buffalo¡¯s owner purposely travelled at a slow pace and allowed his buffalo to graze during the journey. Regardless how Sang Pingliang pushed the buffalo¡¯s owner to hasten, he acted like he didn¡¯t hear him. By the time Sang Pingliang arrived in town, it was almost noon.


    When Sang Pingliang hopped off the cart he was feeling extremely unhappy so he gave the poor owner five coppers which angered him. But knowing Sang Pingliang¡¯s character, the buffalo¡¯s owner remained silent as it would only be a waste of saliva to bicker and grudgingly let that one copper go.


    ¡°Eh Xiao Xu,ter, I still need you to get me home in the afternoon too, since you¡¯ve to go back to the vige as well, don¡¯t you? I¡¯ll give you another 3 coppers!¡± Sang Pingliang deemed himself generous with his offer.


    Instead, the buffalo¡¯s owner spoke with contempt, ¡°I can¡¯t afford to earn money from you! I still have to rush back to farming!¡± After he finished, he cracked a whip and left. Deep down, he understood that it was the right decision for the Sang brothers to cut off ties with such a man. Having an elder like this would be worse than not having one. Thinking again, why did he even allow himself to feel greed over a few coppers? It wasn¡¯t even enough for him to get angry at!


    ¡°Really! Letting go of an opportunity to earn you money; you deserve to be poor!¡± Sang Pingliang said in disdain. With his hands behind his back, he strolled into the bustling marketce. He had decided to have his lunch first before going to the middleman. Letting his bride-to-be have one more meal at the middleman¡¯s ce still counted as a gain for him!


    Sang Pingliang chose a noodle stall at the side of the main road. He ordered a big bowl of piping hot beef noodles and requested for more chopped green onions and wonton*. [* TL Note: a type of Chinese dumpling]


    As he picked up his chopsticks, he heard a series of loud and hurried gong sounds. An officer wearing ck and brown was hitting the gong while announcing at the top of his voice, ¡°Good news! Good news! I have a big piece of good news! The Sang household¡¯s Sang Yufei from our Yangliu Town has gotten the top escorted examinee! Good News! Good News! A big piece of good news....¡±


    The officer went on shouting. Other than Sang Yufei in the Yangliu town, another person, He Shenzhi, had also received the top escorted examinee. That created a hugemotion and the people started asking around about Sang Yufei and He Shenzhi. The town was filled with amazement,pliments, and envy; it soon became busier than ever.


    ¡°Pa¡± Sang Pingliang dropped his chopsticks on the table and was stupefied for a moment.


    When he returned to his senses, the officer who was delivering the good news with the gong had already gone far away. Sang Pingliang quickly stood up and pulled the noodle stall owner aside before asking, ¡°Who? Who has be a top escorted examinee?¡±


    The owner was taken aback by his actions and stammered, ¡°Sang... Sang Yufei!¡±


    ¡°From which vige?¡±


    ¡°I think...think he¡¯s from Si...Sihe Vige!¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? Did you hear wrongly?¡± Sang Pingliang¡¯s face turned white. The hand clutching onto the stall owner¡¯s cor tightened and that almost suffocated him.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ¡ªwhat are you doing! You almost killed me!¡± The stall owner returned to his senses and forcefully pushed Sang Pingliang aside. Feeling vexed, he scolded, ¡°Are you out of your mind! What does other people getting the title got to do with you! Why are you getting so agitated for?!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean none of my **** business? That is my nephew, my blood-rted nephew!¡± Sang Pingliang stamped his feet and ran out.


    ¡°Eh, eh, you haven¡¯t paid me yet!¡± The stall owner grabbed him and stopped him from leaving, ¡°5 copper, thank you!¡±


    Sang Pingliangshed out, ¡°My nephew has gotten the title and you still want to take money from me? I need to rush home right now!¡±


    ¡°Even so, you still have to pay up!¡± Getting ruthlessly questioned by him just now without a good reason, the stall owner wasn¡¯t going to let him off so easily. Rolling his eyes, he said in impolitely, ¡°What¡¯s more, there¡¯s no way I can tell if you¡¯re just a swindler who goes around cheating people¡¯s money!¡± Having someone like you, as if your nephew can get that title! Otherwise, my son would have already been ranked top nationwide!


    ¡°Don¡¯t you look down on me, just you wait, I will remember you!¡± Sang Pingliang trembled with anger but did not bother to continue arguing with the owner. He threw the five copper at him and ran out hurriedly.


    After making sure that it was really Sang Yufei who had be the top escorted examinee, Sang Pingliang felt extremely happy and the smile on his face was from one ear to the other. Great, this was great news! All of a sudden, he had be the top escorted examinee¡¯s blood uncle! The only elder in the household of the top escorted examinee!


    However, that excitement did notst long. It was quickly dampened and the smile on his face froze at the thought of what happened yesterday.


    ¡°How can this happen, how can this happen!¡± Sang Pingliang was feeling regretful and he begun ming the officer for not delivering the good news a day earlier.


    ¡°Regardless, I am still his blood uncle and nobody can change that! If this brat thinks he can forget me when he bes sessful, that will never happen! He¡¯ll be scolded by everyone!¡± Sang Pingliang sneered to himself.


    Not only that, the news must not have reached the vige yet! Surely Yufei, that brat, is still oblivious about it. If he hurried home and reverted the decision made yesterday, then wouldn¡¯t everything be well?


    Alright! I will just do that! Satisfied with that idea, Sang Pingliang could no longer dy any moment and be a scrooge. He paid 3 silver for a ride home in a horse carriage. Forget about buying a concubine, he had to hurry back to the vige as quickly as possible!


    As the good news spread across the streets, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju were having their lunch in a restaurant¡¯s private room. When they heard the banging of the gong and loud shouts, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes brightened up and her lips curled into a smile.


    ¡°The news is finally here! This is great, this is really great!¡± Leaning against the window, Sang Wan happily said.


    ¡°The government officials will only arrive at the vige tomorrow to deliver the good news. We¡¯ll have to leave early tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengjuughed and said. The group that delivered the good news will have to continue banging the gong all the way to the recipient¡¯s house, spreading the news along the way and arriving only at noon to have lunch there. By following that guideline, they would only arrive at the vige on the next day.


    ¡°Okay! I don¡¯t know what must be done tomorrow so we¡¯ll go with your arrangement,¡± Sang Wan smiled towards him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! The servants I brought are all capable, I will pass the instructions properly to them.¡± Shi Fengju was secretly happy that she was now relying on him.


    ¡°Eh?¡± Sang Wan suddenly pointed at the crowd and said in surprise, ¡°Did you see? Isn¡¯t that Second Uncle Sang? Why is he here?¡±


    Shi Fengju looked at the direction she was pointing to and he saw an old man in his fifties squeezing through the crowd and pulling some of them aside to interrogate. Isn¡¯t that Sang Pingliang?


    Shi Fengju felt a little puzzled at the sight, but seeing how Sang Wan¡¯s brows were slightly creased together, he smiled and said, ¡°I think it might just be a coincidence! I¡¯m afraid that the news will spread the moment he arrives back at the vige. How about we hurry there now as well?¡±


    Shi Fengju didn¡¯t know about the n Sang Yufei and Sang Wan hade up with against Sang Pingliang. After all, it wasn¡¯t something morous and neither was it suitable to let him know.


    ¡°No need,¡± Sang Wan said as she thought to herself. Whether or not her second brother was able to sessfully carry out the n, she wouldn¡¯t be of much help and would instead create more trouble for him because if Sang Pingliang were to use words against her, then it would only spell trouble. Leaving tomorrow would be better.


    ¡°Okay, then tomorrow we¡¯ll leave!¡± Although Shi Fengju found it strange, he didn¡¯t give more thoughts into it.


    Sang Pingliang hurried back to Sihe Vige quickly. After getting off the carriage, he went straight for home.


    Li Shi was very concerned about the looks of her new ¡°sister¡±. Right after Sang Pingliang left, she had been eyeing at the door innumerous times. Once she saw him hurrying back, she could not help but be mad and cursed a few times under her breath.


    Wait, that doesn¡¯t look right! There was only her husband running back, with no other woman with him!


    Li Shi was suddenly overjoyed and she called out, ¡°Mister! Mister!¡± Running towards Sang Pingliang, she happily said, ¡°Mister, you didn¡¯t go to buy a concubine?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s already what time, what use is there to buy a concubine!¡± Sang Pingliang said unhappily.


    ¡°Eh, right, right!¡± Li Shi was very happy, ¡°Let¡¯s slowly think it through and find a good one. There¡¯s no need to hurry, no need to rush!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about this and go home with me right now, I have something big to tell you!¡± Sang Pingliang became even more impatient. Giving a glimpse at Sang Hong¡¯s house, a sense of greed erupted from within him.


    ¡°Okay, okay!¡± Li Shi was still full of joy from the fact that Sang Pingliang did not buy a concubine. It was the only issue which mattered to her and she agreed without a second thought.

 Chapter 112

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 112</h4>


    Wait a moment! As expected of his wife, she understood Sang Pingliang the best and finally came back to her senses. ¡°Mister, just what happened?¡±


    ¡°Hmph! It¡¯s all your fault!¡± Sang Pingliang grunted coldly and dragged her into the room before shutting the door behind them. With a gloomy expression, he said coldly, ¡°Wasn¡¯t it just a kilogram of flour? Couldn¡¯t you¡¯ve just lent it to Yufei since he asked for it? He is the son of my elder brother, my nephew, and you refused to lend a kilogram of flour to him! Is there anyone as stingy as you?! If you had just refused and closed the door then, it would¡¯ve been fine, but no, you just had to rebuke him! He¡¯s my nephew and also yours, is this any way to act as an elder?! You useless wife! Your conscience must have been eaten by a dog!¡±


    ¡°Mister!¡± Li Shi raised her hand to touch his forehead, ¡°Have you been possessed? Why are you saying something so strange? Why should we lend our things to them? Sure, they¡¯ll be borrowing, but can they return what they borrowed? Furthermore, that is all in the past now! We have nothing to do with them anymore! Forget about him, he can keep on dreaming about being our nephew!¡±


    Li Shi pouted. Don¡¯t just nag at me, you were the most enthusiastic when scolding them yesterday!


    ¡°Silence!¡± Li Shi¡¯s words stabbed right into Sang Pingliang¡¯s sore spot, causing him to roar angrily, ¡°What do you mean nothing to do with them anymore! Who said that! Sure we¡¯ve had some conflicts but can the blood rtion between us be something that will disappear with just some words? I¡¯m telling you, and you¡¯d better listen closely, I, Sang Pingliang will always be his uncle, even if he doesn¡¯t want to recognize me, there¡¯s nothing he can do about it!


    ¡°You¡¯ve changed so much just from a simple trip to town! It seems like I might have to ask Priestess Huang to make a trip here!¡± Li Shi widened her eyes in disbelief as she looked at Sang Pingliang.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine! I¡¯m fine! Calm down, I¡¯m fine, I¡¯mpletely fine!¡± Sang Pingliang finally calmed down and sighed reluctantly, ¡°Thank goodness I took a trip to town today. Otherwise, we¡¯d be in for a huge loss!¡±


    Thereafter, he told Li Shi everything about what he had seen and heard in town.


    ¡°What!¡± Li Shi cried out involuntarily, ¡°He came in first and received the title of Top Escorted Examinee?!¡±


    ¡°Lower your voice!¡± Sang Pingliang red at her hatefully and lowered his own, ¡°For now, no one in the vige knows about this yet! Listen to me, go to their house immediately and right yesterday¡¯s wrongs.¡±


    ¡°That brat, Sang Yufei, managed to be the top escorted examinee? Mister, are you sure you haven¡¯t gotten it wrong?¡± Li Shi¡¯s heart felt extremely ufortable. Just how did he manage to get the title? Was he just that lucky?


    ¡°How could I be wrong?¡± Sang Pingliang continued, ¡°I, Sang Pingliang of Sihe Vige, heard it clearly in Yangliu Town and asked many bystanders. How could I be wrong!¡±


    ¡°Maybe... maybe the announcer announced it wrongly!¡± Li Shi was starting to feel sour.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you say something more positive!¡± Sang Pingliang poked her forehead with a finger, ¡°Our Sang family is finally going to prosper, so why are you so unhappy about it?¡±


    ¡°Mister, we just broke off ties with them yesterday, so what does them prospering have to do with us!¡± Li Shi pouted.


    ¡°You still dare to say that!¡± Sang Pingliang shouted angrily, ¡°Yesterday¡¯s problem was all your fault! I don¡¯t care how you do it but change things back! What, don¡¯t you want to be the aunt of a top escorted examinee?¡±


    Li Shi¡¯s eyes lit up and she unconsciously smiled, saying happily, ¡°Oh yes, oh yes! How could I have forgotten! We are their elders after all! Keke, Mister, we just hit a jackpot!¡±


    ¡°En! Keke, that kid, Yufei, has always been smart from young. Just like I¡¯ve said, he would definitely do well!¡± Sang Pingliang liked what he heard and said with a smile while stroking his short beard.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go right away!¡± Li Shi was on cloud nine and was about to leave the house.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Sang Pingliang nced at her and frowned, ¡°Change your clothes andb your hair before you go. Also, never utter a word about the good news, not a word of it, understand me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Li Shi replied while opening the wardrobe to pick a set of clothes, ¡°If they knew about it and not let bygones be bygones, that would be really terrible for us! I have at least this much sense!¡±


    ¡°Hmph, at least you aren¡¯tpletely senseless!¡± Sang Pingliangid down on the bed, with his hands crossed behind his head and his legs crossed, as he began to dream of making fortunes.


    Li Shi changed into a new set of clothing andbed her hair before leaving for Sang Hong¡¯s house. She knocked on the courtyard gate while cheerfully calling out, ¡°Xiao Fei, Ah Hong, are you home?¡±


    Shortly after, Fang Shi walked out. Holding the door with one hand to block Li Shi, she said in a polite and detached tone, ¡°Oh, isn¡¯t this Auntie Sang? Is there something you need?¡±


    ¡°What Auntie Sang ah,¡± Li Shi smiled, ¡°Have you forgotten that I¡¯m your Second Aunt! I¡¯m here to find Xiao Fei and Ah Hong; are they at home?¡±


    ¡°If there¡¯s anything, you can just tell me!¡± Fang Shi blocked her and did not let her pass.


    ¡°What are you doing not letting me in!¡± Li Shi raged.


    Fang Shi smiled, ¡°Auntie Sang, this is my home, not yours. I don¡¯t wish to entertain a great deity such as yourself, so I can¡¯t let you in! Furthermore, Ah Hong and Yufei aren¡¯t home!¡±


    ¡°Not at home?¡± Li Shi paused before recalling that Sang Hong must be teaching in the vige school. However, Sang Hong was not the important character, thus she asked, ¡°Then where did Xiao Fei go?¡±


    ¡°He went to work in the fields!¡± Fang Shi said briefly.


    ¡°Aiyo, you guys ah! How could you let him work in the fields!¡± Li Shi¡¯s heart ached and her knees turned weak.


    Fang Shiughed, ¡°Auntie Sang, I don¡¯t think anything that happens in my house has got anything to do with you, right?¡±


    ¡°You¨C¡± Li Shi stared at Fang Shi and was at a loss of words. Fang Shi had never been afraid of her and was even less afraid now. Knowing there was nothing she could do in front of Fang Shi, she grunted and said proudly, ¡°Since they aren¡¯t home, then I shall head home first! Tell them toe to my houseter!¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t be good!¡± Fang Shi smiled, ¡°Yesterday, didn¡¯t Auntie Sang and Mister Sang say to never ever step into your house? We aren¡¯t thick-skinned enough to do something so shameless!¡± She looked at Li Shi mockingly.


    Coincidentally, two women, slightly older than Li Shi, were passing by. Seeing her outside Sang Hong¡¯s house with a face full of rage, they thought she hade to pick a fight again and quickly approached her. ¡°Old Sister, what are you doing here? Haven¡¯t you broken ties with them? Why can¡¯t you be more generous and spare them!¡±


    ¡°I agree, you should just treat them as if they do not exist! Why the need for this!¡±


    The two of them spoke, and waved towards Fang Shi before forcefully dragging Li Shi away with them.


    Li Shi was so furious that she red at them angrily before exining to them hurriedly, ¡°What, what happened yesterday doesn¡¯t count, it doesn¡¯t count at all! We haven¡¯t broken off our ties!¡±


    Oh? She has the cheek to say that!


    The two women looked at each other and inwardly scorned her with the same thought floating in their mind: Li Shi must have realized that breaking off ties means that she could no longer take advantage of them and was regretting it now! This person ah, how can she be this shameless! For the two Sang brothers to have this pair of elders, it must¡¯ve been difficult to guard their property from being emptied!


    ¡°Old Sister, that¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong! Yesterday¡¯s incident was recorded on paper by Li Zheng [TL Note: An official in charge of residential record and taxes.] so how can that not be official? Furthermore, all of us witnessed it!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±


    The two of them were extremely disgusted and excused themselves before Li Shi could defend herself.


    ¡°How dare you act so arrogantly!¡± Li Shi muttered angrily, ¡°Just you wait! When this olddy makes it big, even if you guyse begging me, I won¡¯t even bother looking in your direction!¡±


    ¡°How did it go? Has everything been settled?¡± Sang Pingliang asked urgently the moment Li Shi returned home.


    ¡°No!¡± Li Shi replied harshly.


    ¡°No?¡± Sang Pingliang raised his voice, ¡°then why have youe back?¡±


    ¡°No one¡¯s home!¡± Li Shi said, ¡°Both brothers aren¡¯t at home! That b*tch Fang Shi even yed me! So disrespectful to her elder, we should make Ah Hong divorce her one day!¡±


    ¡°No one¡¯s home? Where did Xiao Fei go?¡± Sang Pingliang was quick to ignore Li Shi¡¯sins; he only cared about Sang Yufei. As for Li Shi getting yed, it wasn¡¯t anything urgent and it was not like she would lose a piece of her flesh!


    ¡°Supposedly, he went to work in the fields but who knows where!¡± Li Shi said with a dark face.


    ¡°Work in the fields?¡± Sang Pingliang thought for a moment before asking, ¡°Then Ah Hong? Is he in school?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go look for him,¡± Sang Pingliang dusted his clothes and said, ¡°I just had an idea. I¡¯m going to find Ah Hong and drag him to Li Zheng. Then, I¡¯m going to force him to let us adopt Xiao Fei as our son, how about that?¡±


    ¡°Adopt him as our son?¡± Li Shi¡¯s eyes brightened as she pped in joy, ¡°Good, good! It can¡¯t get better!¡± Gratuitously receiving a top escorted examinee as their son and the mister wouldn¡¯t have the need to get concubines; this was literally a blessing from the heavens! However, what she didn¡¯t know was that since Sang Pingliang had already made up his mind, not even a god can stop him from getting a concubine.


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Pingliang gleefully said, ¡°The Second House doesn¡¯t have a descendant, but the Main House has two sons. It is only natural to let us adopt one so we can have someone to care for us!¡±


    Sang Pingliang was betting on Sang Hong¡¯s naivety as he would surely not dare to refute him. As long as he agrees and Li Zheng settled it on paper, then Sang Yufei wouldn¡¯t have a choice even if he refused.


    ¡°Go catch two chickens and wait at the entrance of the school. I¡¯ll add another 5 silvers as well. Just wait for me to drag Ah Hong out of the school and we¡¯ll head to the Li Zheng¡¯s house immediately!¡±


    ¡°Eh, okay, okay!¡± Li Shi could not help but feel her heart ache upon hearing that they were going to give two chickens and even add in 5 silvers.


    ¡°Listen carefully,¡± at such a crucial time, Sang Pingliang had more charm around him. He stared at Li Shi and said seriously, ¡°Pick thergest rooster and a healthy hen. Let me warn you, if you cause trouble for me with any more of your pettiness, you¡¯ll see thest of me!¡±


    Li Shi¡¯s heart ached even more from those words and was entirely frightened by thest sentence. In an instant, she nodded hurriedly.


    ¡°Be quick, I¡¯ll head out first!¡± Sang Pingliang threw in a few more words before rushing off.


    Sang Hong was giving lessons in the school to a group of children of various ages. Seeing Sang Pingliang waving to him with a broad smile from the outside, he hesitated for a moment before assigning two chapters for the students to memorise and headed out.


    Sang Pingliang had predicted correctly. Even though yesterday¡¯s matter had caused Sang Hong¡¯s heart to be cold, there was no way he would pretend not to see Sang Pingliang.

 Chapter 113

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 113</h4>


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hehe! Don¡¯t be so polite with second uncle!¡± Not waiting for Sang Hong toplete his sentence and bow with his hands cupped together, Sang Pingliang grabbed his arm intimately. ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, follow your second uncle!¡±


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang!¡± Sang Hong couldn¡¯t help but furrow his eyebrows. He snatched his hand back and said with a straight face, ¡°Second Uncle Sang, if you have something to tell me, please do!¡±


    When a person is nice with no reason, that person must be up to no good. Just because Sang Hong was an honest man did not mean he was dumb.


    ¡°Aiya, this is not the ce to talk!¡± Sang Pingliang disregarded Sang Hong¡¯s distant way of address and attitude. Wearing an affectionate smile, he said, ¡°Go, go. Follow your second uncle and you will know!¡±


    ¡°There is still an hour until my lesson ends. I will have to ask Second Uncle Sang to wait a while more!¡± said Sang Hong courteously.


    ¡°Why are you so serious over those few unbing students! Come with me!¡±


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang!¡± Sang Hong said with a straight face, ¡°I have already received their tuition payments, so how can I be so irresponsible! Second Uncle Sang, please wait for me!¡±


    ¡°You really ¡ª¡ª alright, alright, then you go ahead. I¡¯ll wait for you here!¡± Sang Pingliang relented and sighed.


    This was really abnormal! Sang Hong was secretly shocked. This was bad. Did he find out anything?


    Sang Hong went back to his ss uneasily and found himself unable to remain calm.


    An hourter, ss ended and Sang Hong got off from school. Just when he thought Sang Pingliang had left, he saw him get up from a rock and pat the dust off his rear before smiling as he forcefully pulled him, ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, follow your second uncle!¡±


    ¡°Second Uncle Sang, please, I can walk on my own!¡± Sang Hong let out a deep sigh and followed him.


    ¡°Oh, Ah Hong, you¡¯re finally here!¡± Right outside the school, Li Shi was waiting for them. Sang Hong was startled by the couple¡¯s unusual behaviour. He was not sure what tricks were up the old couple¡¯s sleeves.


    After walking a stretch of road unconsciously, Sang Hong raised his head and saw Li Zheng¡¯s house right in front of his eyes. Sang Hong was stunned for a moment and stopped in his tracks immediately. ¡°Second Uncle Sang, Second Aunt Sang, this is?¡±


    ¡°Hehe,e,e, you will know as soon as you get in! Quickly go in!¡± Sang Pingliang and Li Shi pulled and shoved Sang Hong into the house.


    ¡°Who is this!¡± Li Zheng¡¯s wife heard themotion and came out to check what was going on. Seeing the three and the two plump chickens in Li Shi¡¯s hand, she was momentarily startled, ¡°Oh? This is ¡ª¡ª¡±


    These two were the vige¡¯s infamous scrooges. If so, why were they so generous as to bring two chickens? Not only that, they usually disliked the Sang brothers, so why were they all smiles towards Sang Hong today?


    ¡°Hehe, Sister, is Li Zheng at home today? We have some things that we need him to help us with!¡± Li Shi said hurriedly.


    ¡°Oh, he¡¯s inside. Quickly,e in then!¡± Li Zheng¡¯s wife gave them a baffled look as she moved aside to let them in.


    ¡°Why are you guys here again? Is there something else?¡± Li Zheng could not help but furrow his eyebrows when he saw the couple.


    ¡°Hehe, we have something urgent that we need you to help us decide!¡± Li Shi quickly smiled catingly while holding up the two chickens in her hand. ¡°Please ept our chickens; consider it our goodwill! This hen can stilly eggs, hehe!¡±


    Li Zheng¡¯s eyebrow arched slightly and said, ¡°You can just put those aside. Have a seat first before saying what you wish for me to help you with!¡±


    ¡°We ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ahem, ahem!¡± Sang Pingliang immediately coughed twice when he saw how Li Shi was being meddlesome and red daggers at her


    ¡°Er, Mister, you speak, you speak!¡± Li Shi stopped talking in embarrassment.


    Sang Pingliang cupped his hands respectfully and beganunching into his request. Of course, he purposely did not bring up yesterday¡¯s event. First, heplimented Li Zheng in a few sentences, then followed it with a long rant about how he had no son even though he was over fifty years old and how his life in the future would be miserable. He let out a long and deep sigh as he went on about his agony.


    As Li Zheng listened, his expression softened a little but became even more disgruntled. Oh, so you guys know this principle. If so, why are you still being so stingy and unreasonable? Fancy treating your blood nephew with such coldness and harshness; your wealth was all just waiting to be buried in your grave together with you!


    After ranting, Sang Pingliang suddenly changed the subject and revealed his true purpose for being here today. Then, he tried his best to squeeze out two drops of tears and bowed deeply to Li Zheng before saying, ¡°Please, help us!¡±


    Li Shi also imitated her husband actions and said, ¡°Li Zheng, please pity us!¡±


    Sang Hong was dumbfounded and the expression on his face changed entirely!


    He never had thought that Second Uncle and Second Aunt would n out something like this!


    Having finally gotten yesterday¡¯s oue, Sang Hong knew he could never ept this matter. So how should he handle this? After all, they were being sensible!


    Li Zheng was also stunned and he asked again in disbelief, ¡°What did you say? Say that to me again!¡±


    Sang Pingliang did so.


    Li Zheng¡¯s face contorted in indignance, his lips moved but he remained silent in the end.


    ¡°Ridiculous! Stop fooling around!¡± Those were the words he actually wanted to scold out.


    This couple¡¯s age added up to be more than fifty so why did they always do something so absurd? Yesterday, they were so insistent on breaking ties, yet today, they wanted to adopt a son for their own. If their heads weren¡¯t kicked by a donkey, then what?


    Or, were they treating me as a monkey to y with!


    Li Zheng controlled his temper with great difficulty and suppressed his urge to give them a scolding. He sighed and said in one long breath, ¡°Old Brother Sang, you¡¯ve to think this through clearly. If Xiao Fei really bes your son, in a hundred years, your property andnd will belong to him! Have the two of you thought this through clearly?¡±


    ¡°We did, we did!¡± Sang Pingliang and Li Shi nodded fervently. ¡°Li Zheng ah, we have thought it through very clearly! Once Xiao Fei bes part of our family, he will be like our own son, everything that belongs to us will be his in the future! He just needs to send us off properly when we pass on!¡±


    ¡°Alright then!¡± Li Zheng nodded, ¡°If you have thought about it clearly, then I will not allow for this to be changed again. So in the future, you can never change it, so don¡¯te finding me for this again!¡±


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi were even more pleased after hearing his words and happily agreed.


    Although Li Zheng thought they were acting strange today, it didn¡¯t actually caused any trouble for him, so he did not think too deeply into the matter. He turned his head and smiled at Sang Hong, ¡°Ah Hong, have you heard? I think ¡ª¡±


    ¡°Li Zheng!¡± Sang Hong finally plucked up his courage and said, ¡°For this matter, I cannot ept! Please forgive me.¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Li Zheng was bewildered.


    The first thought in his mind was: this whole family must have eaten the wrong medicine today!


    ¡°You ¡ª¡ª!¡±


    Sang Pingliang was momentarily stumped as he red at Sang Hong, preparing to erupt any time soon, but was quickly stopped by Li Zheng.


    ¡°Ah Hong,¡± said Li Zheng. ¡°You have to think this through clearly, if Xiao Fei is adopted, he will be the only son in the Second House. In the future, everything from the Second House will be passed down to him; that¡¯ll relieve some of the burden on your and your wife!¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Sang Pingliang said impatiently, ¡°Doesn¡¯t Xiao Fei like to study? We have the money, we can let him study! What are you worried about!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Sang Hong could not help but get angry. That was his blood-rted brother. If he didn¡¯t worry about him, who would? Them? Where were they when we needed their help and concern in the past? Why did they only make such promises now?


    ¡°Li Zheng,¡± Sang Hong ignored Sang Pingliangpletely and looked directly at Li Zheng, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t think you have forgotten about yesterday¡¯s matter? If Second Uncle Sang had wanted to adopt Xiao Fei in the past, I would not be able to reject his request; but now, things are different! Firstly, we no longer have any ties so they cannot force us to ept this; secondly, I don¡¯t feel at ease letting my brother be adopted by them ¡ª¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that!¡± Sang Pingliang became very agitated when he heard what Sang Hong had said. ¡°How are we not family? Yesterday¡¯s, yesterday¡¯s matter doesn¡¯t count! It¡¯s easy, isn¡¯t it? Just tear that piece of paper!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±Li shi quickly chimed in, ¡°Ah Hong, we are doing this for your own good. Xiao Feiing with us will help you to cut down on your expenses. Your family still has a son and daughter waiting for you to prepare their wedding dowries! Furthermore, how can you just watch as your uncle and aunt do not have a son to send them off? You really are this unfilial ah, you!¡±


    ¡°Mister Sang, Auntie Sang!¡± Furious, Sang Hong trembled slightly. He didn¡¯t know how he should argue and could only address them strongly to remind them that they were no longer family.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi refused to relent. They immediately put on an aggressive stance and forcefully questioned Sang Hong, pressuring him to agree with them immediately.


    Unable to tolerate their absurdity, Sang Hong said, ¡°Li Zheng, you were also a witness to yesterday¡¯s event, yet you wish to go back on your words after no more than a day? Let¡¯s not talk about ourselves, but won¡¯t you be condemned for this? Also, can I ask what is with the Second Uncle Sang and Second Auntie Sang¡¯s sudden change in attitude? After considering everything, it¡¯s difficult for me to trust Xiao Fei with you guys! He is my blood-rted brother after all!¡±


    ¡°Have your wings have grown too big? How dare you talk back!¡± Sang Pingliang trembled in anger.


    ¡°You still dare to talk about yesterday! You guys must have done it on purpose yesterday! Yes, on purpose!¡± At that sudden thought, Li Shi unwittingly said something she should not have.


    ¡°Right, that is enough!¡± Li Zheng cut them off with displeasure, ¡°If you want to quarrel, go back and quarrel!¡±


    Li Zheng sighed to himself. He had almost messed up because of sympathy! He really thought that these two had really changed for the better, but it looks like that wasn¡¯t the case at all!


    Sang Hong¡¯s words really struck a chord and he wanted to find out why too.


    Also, from the way the couple behaved, it would only taint his reputation if he gave in, just like what Sang Hong had said.


    ¡°Adoption is a big matter,¡± Li Zheng finally decided and said, ¡°Old Brother Sang, don¡¯t me me for being straightforward with you, but it was you guys that were very determined to cut ties with them yesterday. Now, you want to ept Xiao Fei as your son? There is too big of a difference between yesterday and today¡¯s attitude! If you do not rify what the real reason behind this is, then forgive me for not offering my help!¡±


    It was all because of this Sang Hong brat that made things moreplicated! Sang Pingliang red at Sang Hong resentfully and proceeded to smile cidly at Li Zheng, saying, ¡°Really, there isn¡¯t any reason at all! The only reason is the one we said just now! We have no sons ¨C¡±


    ¡°You have had no sons for many decades already, it¡¯s not like you just found that out yesterday! Your reason is a little too far-fetched, don¡¯t you think?¡± Li Zheng cut him off.


    The Sang couple would never reveal the true reason. They continued to insist that they had not realized it until they gave some thought about it the night before which immediately made them decide toe today.


    ¡°Is that really true?¡± Li Zheng looked at them suspiciously. ¡°Then why did I hear Sister Sang saying something about yesterday¡¯s event being done on purpose? On purpose? On purpose for? What does that mean? ¡±


    ¡°Xiao Fei is ¨C¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth!¡± Sang Pingliang stopped Li Shi immediately and red at her. How could she talk absentmindedly? Things would turn bad if she revealed the truth!

 Chapter 114

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 114</h4>


    ¡°This woman was just spouting rubbish, Li Zheng, please don¡¯t take it to heart!¡± Sang Pingliang smiled then added, ¡°Rest assured, I can promise you that we will treat Xiao Fei as our own son once he¡¯s adopted. If you don¡¯t believe us, we can put that down on paper! Sigh, when one is old without a son, just thinking about the future brings chills to my heart; we really harbor no other reasons! Li Zheng, you are a person of old age as well, surely you must be able to empathize with me!¡±


    ¡°Ah Hong, what do you think?¡± Li Zheng sighed again. If only I knew it woulde to this, I would have acted differently!


    ¡°No!¡± With the situation reaching this stage, Sang Hong knew he had to remain firm. If he were to show any signs of giving in, they would definitely grab onto it tightly.


    ¡°You unfilial brat! Are you in a position to decide? I won¡¯t ept a ¡®no¡¯ for an answer even if you disagree!¡± Sang Pingliang red at Sang Hong and snarled. His heart was full of anger! He had almost convinced Li Zheng entirely but this rascal just had to be so hard-headed!


    Refusing to back down, Sang Hong replied, ¡°If Mister Sang had raised this before yesterday, I would have said nothing. But now, saying that I¡¯m unfilial doesn¡¯t seem right, does it?¡±


    ¡°You¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Eh, Ah Hong isn¡¯t wrong!¡± Li Zheng red at the furious Sang Pingliang. ¡°Your family has broken ties with theirs; both of you are no longer their elders now, so how can you criticize him for being unfilial? If he is unwilling to let you adopt his blood-rted brother, then so be it. You have no say in this! Alright, alright! Let¡¯s stop with this now! From how I see it, the two of you are still healthy. Why not just go to a neighboring district to adopt another child from the same ancestry? He will still be able to look after you and give you a proper burial!¡±


    A sudden realization struck Li Zheng, and he took a brief look at Sang Pingliang and Li Shi. Oh, since Sang Yufei is all grown up now, they would be able to have another pair of working hands without having to lift a finger at raising another child once they adopt him! This couple must indeed be harboring this thought!


    Li Zheng looked down on them even more. He waved his hand impatiently and said, ¡°Enough, enough! Old Brother Sang, you are also a wizened man now; you can¡¯t keep making changes to decisions that were already made! How can you simply revert the decision you made yesterday? Furthermore, this isn¡¯t a small matter! Enough of this already, it¡¯s no longer early now, so all of you, please go back! Oh right, take the chickens that you brought here with you as well!¡±


    This couple... Thinking again, those words surely were redundant; they would have taken those chickens away without my reminder.


    ¡°Please excuse me!¡± Sang Hong stood up and cupped his hands together as he bid farewell.


    However, Sang Pingliang grabbed onto him and said, ¡°We have not asked Xiao Fei about this! How do you know whether Xiao Fei is unwilling? Call Xiao Fei now, I will ask him directly!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right! Xiao Fei is so nice, unlike you, an unconscientious brat!¡± Li Shi chipped in.


    Why is this couple talking in such an erratic manner today? Li Zheng was perplexed. Something is definitely strange!


    ¡°Alright then, call Xiao Fei over and ask him too.¡± Li Zheng felt disgusted at how persistent the couple was acting and wished he could chase them away as soon as possible. Thus, he warned, ¡°I will say this upfront. If Xiao Fei is unwilling, then we¡¯ll close this matter! Everyone here will speak no more about this and quickly return to your own homes!¡±


    ¡°Then if he is willing, Li Zheng, you¡¯ll have to help us!¡± Li Shi hurriedly said.


    Li Zheng nced at Sang Hong and seeing how he had nothing toment, nodded his head, ¡°If he is willing, then I will help you guys with this matter.¡± After calling for his son, he instructed him to head to Sang Hong¡¯s house and invite Sang Yufei over.


    In just a short while, Sang Yufei knocked on the door binging in, ¡°Li Zheng, you wished to see me?¡±


    ¡°Xiao Fei ah! You¡¯re finally here!¡±


    ¡°Xiao Fei,e,e. Second Uncle has a huge piece of good news to tell you!¡±


    Not waiting for Li Zheng to speak, Sang Pingliang and his wife had smiles on their faces as though they had spotted a gold bar. They hurried towards Sang Yufei and spoke adoringly to him.


    With great difficulty, Sang Yufei was finally able to pull himself away from them before smiling bitterly, ¡°What¡¯s going on? Mister Sang and Auntie Sang, you¡¯re speaking too fast!¡±


    ¡°This is a huge piece of good news to you, so listen to us carefully!¡± Sang Pingliang then told Sang Yufei about how he wanted him to be his son and how all of their inheritance would be his in the future; he would be allowed to study for as long as he wanted and would not be financially interrupted! Sang Pingliang also made repeated promises on how he would treat him like his blood-rted son and that a written document could be drawn right here in Li Zheng¡¯s ce if his words weren¡¯t credible enough!


    As soon as Sang Yufei heard that, he knew that they must have somehow gotten wind of his sess. Whilst mocking them deep down, he did not show it on the surface.


    Sang Pingliang had a bright smile on his face and his mouth could not stay shut as he forcefully pulled Sang Yufei to be in front of Li Zheng before saying excitedly, ¡°Li Zheng, just look. Xiao Fei has no objections to us. Will you please help us to write the document?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please help us. We wouldn¡¯t want others ruin this matter in the future, do we?¡± Li Shi agreed immediately while ring at Sang Hong.


    ¡°Mister Sang!¡± Sang Yufei quickly released himself from Sang Pingliang¡¯s grasp, ¡°I did not agree to this! I¡¯ve stayed with my brother and sister-inw for all my life, I don¡¯t wish to be adopted!¡±


    ¡°Are you learning from that unfilial brat as well?¡± Sang Pingliang¡¯s face immediately turned cold.


    ¡°Unfilial? Just how is Mister Sang rted to us? Such words should not be spouted without care!¡± Sang Yufei was not as mellow as Sang Hong. The corner of his lips curled as he spoke sarcastically.


    ¡°I, I am your second uncle! You can¡¯t change that!¡±


    ¡°But yesterday, you just did so yourself. On a white paper with ck ink, surely Mister Sang hasn¡¯t forgotten about it so quickly, right? If you did, please go back and take it out to read again!¡± Sang Yufei nced at them coldly and pulled at Sang Hong, ¡°Big Brother, let¡¯s go home!¡±


    ¡°You¡ª¡±


    ¡°I say, Old Brother Sang ah! You should really give up this time,¡± Li Zheng urged impatiently, ¡°Just look at the time now; go back, go back and make dinner at home! Let¡¯s just end this matter here! And don¡¯t speak about this anymore! Just go out there and adopt a child, wouldn¡¯t it be the same? If not, just find a son-inw to marry into your family! Why do you have to separate others from their family?¡±


    An instant karma! Not a day had passed, and they were already pping their own faces! Really, why are these two making such a scene!


    Li Zheng shook his head in confusion, expressing how he could not understand their thoughts at all.


    ¡°You did it on purpose, you all did it on purpose!¡± Sang Pingliang was so angry as he pointed at Sang Hong and Sang Yufei without a care for everything else, ¡°You two, you two brothers must have teamed up to pranked us! Sang Yufei, you cold-blooded rascal! So you want to cut off ties with us once you¡¯ve be the top escorted examinee? You cold-blooded rascal!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Li Zheng and Sang Yufei eximed sceptically. After a moment of astonishment, a momentary sense of uneasiness shed past Sang Hong¡¯s eyes but he quickly regained hisposure.


    ¡°What? Be the top escorted examinee? Are saying me, are you saying that I¡ª¡ª have clinched that title?¡± Sang Yufei¡¯s eyes were wide open as he pointed right at his nose, in disbelief, beforeughing out loud, ¡°I say, Mister Sang, please don¡¯t pull jokes like this! If I didn¡¯t manage to get it, will youpensate me for this one?¡±


    ¡°What exactly is happening?¡± Li Zheng was also confused. ¡°Did you hear wrongly? Did Xiao Fei really be a top escorted examinee?¡± Li Zheng asked excitedly.


    ¡°The entire town knows about it now, how can it be wrong!¡± Sang Pingliang sneered, as he described what he saw and heard in town today. He pointed at Sang Yufei and questioned, ¡°And you dare to say you don¡¯t know? Hehe, if you don¡¯t know, then would you have acted the way you did yesterday? You were obviously afraid that we would gain benefits from your sess, so you set a trap for us to fall into!¡±


    ¡°Mister Sang!¡± Sang Yufei said coldly, ¡°Yesterday, all I did was borrow flour from your house. It¡¯s okay if you didn¡¯t want to lend it to us, but what did you say? Do you really need me to repeat the words you said yesterday? It¡¯s okay if you had only scolded us, but you even went on to scold our father! And today, you even dared to scold me for being unfilial! The ones who insisted on cutting ties and eventually went to find Li Zheng were the two of you. My sister-inw had tried to stop you numerous times, but did you guys listen to her? Oh, so now I¡¯ve be a top escorted nominee ah. Hehe, no wonder you¡¯d want to adopt me! Mister Sang, Auntie Sang, what a well-made n! My brother and sister-inw had painstakingly provided me with food to eat, clothes to wear and supported my education, while the two of you are here trying to reap the benefits without lifting a finger!¡±


    Li Zheng was doing his best to contain his own excitement. After hearing Sang Yufei¡¯s words, he sighed and said, ¡°Old Brother Sang, no matter what, you have already cut off ties with them. Since Xiao Fei, erm, Second Young Master Sang is not willing to be adopted, then that is final! This matter shall not be mentioned anymore!¡±


    If he had not known about Sang Yufei bing a top escorted examinee, it was still fine to call him by name. But now that he knew, a small figure like him wouldn¡¯t dare to call him by his nickname when even the mayor had to greet him respectfully.


    ¡°All of you were colluding! To deceive us!¡± Flushed with embarrassment and anger, Sang Pingliang scolded even Li Zheng as well.


    ¡°How dare you say that?¡± Li Zheng fumed, ¡°Who was the one that begged me for help yesterday? Huh?¡±


    ¡°No, no, I wasn¡¯t saying you! It was them, they must have known about it first, that¡¯s why they would¡ª¡± Sang Pingliang no longer had the confidence and started pointing fingers at the Sang brothers again.


    Sang Yufei smiled tauntingly, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you saw a group of officials announcing the good news in town today? When even our local officials have yet to receive the news, how could I have gotten it first? Anyway, this is indeed a big piece of good news. If I had known, would I have came back shabbily? Unless, Mister Sang, you¡¯re trying to y a prank with me? Have I really gotten the title?¡±


    Sang Yufei creased his brows, his face full of uneasiness.


    ¡°You¡ª¡± Sang Pingliang was sure that he had already known about the news beforehand and seeing how he was acting so pretentious, the anger in him almost choked him.


    ¡°At the age the both of you are now at, why are you still acting so appallingly? When they were in trouble, you stood aside and merely chided them. Now, that they have attained some sess, you try to mooch off them. Do you really think that there are free lunches in the world? Alright, forgive me, since I can¡¯t help you in this matter, please return!¡± Li Zheng pressured them coldly.


    Li Zheng was not foolish; he was able to read the situation and suspect that yesterday¡¯s matter was nned by the Sang brothers beforehand. But he was not dumb enough to say that out. Sang Pingliang was a selfish person that only cared about his own benefits. If there were no benefits to gain, he would not have insisted on adopting Sang Yufei. Presently, his actions meant that the news he brought back was highly probable. Which also meant that Sang Yufei was now a top escorted examinee! In the future, he might have to suck up to Sang Yufei for various reasons! So right now, it would do him good to do the top escorted examinee a favor!

 Chapter 115

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 115</h4>


    ¡°Thank you, Li Zheng. If there¡¯s nothing else, then us brothers will take our leave first!¡± Sang Yufei was in a great mood, smiling and cupping his hands as he did a bow.


    ¡°No need to thank me! Please, go home quickly!¡± Li Zheng darted to a side while returning the courtesy, saying, ¡°Oh right, if you have anything else that needs my help, don¡¯t hesitate to ask me!¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s true, then when there is, I¡¯ll have much to trouble Li Zheng with!¡± Sang Yufei said politely.


    ¡°Hehe, don¡¯t worry!¡±


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi stood at the side, looking on with their eyes wide open, feeling so shameful and angry, they were at a loss for words. Li Zheng went to see the brothers off before turning around, only to see the old couple still standing in his house. Overwhelmed by disgust, he quickly forced them to leave.


    Sang Pingliang and Li Shi are the sort who bully the weak and fear the strong. They dared to bully the orphaned Sang brothers but they did not dare to make a fuss with Li Zheng. All they could do was leave miserably while cursing on their way home.


    ¡°Mister, what do we do now!¡± Li Shi kept wiping away her tears of anxiety, ¡°From now on, they¡¯ll surely bully us to our deaths! Especially that Fang Shi, her words are even sharper than knives!¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Sang Pingliang¡¯s expression was as dark as the bottom of a pan and he coldly said, ¡°He won¡¯t let us adopt him? So be it, it¡¯s not a big deal! Hmph, but they can keep on dreaming about not recognising me as their second uncle!¡±


    ¡°Mister, you have a n?¡± Li Shi stopped crying and asked quickly.


    ¡°You¡¯ll know tomorrow!¡± Sang Pingliang sighed to vent out his anger. He believed that there was no way Sang Yufei would not acknowledge him as his uncle in front of a group of officials who would arrive to deliver the good news! The entire vige shall serve as witnesses to Sang Yufei¡¯s ruined reputation if he dared to dismiss that fact!


    For the vige to have a top escorted examinee, it would bring up the reputation of the vige¡¯s officer as well. Li Zheng quickly went to spread the news excitedly and soon, the entire Sihe Vige was buzzing. Sang Hong¡¯s house became lively on that night.


    Because everyone believed that Li Zheng would definitely not lie, then whatever he said must be true!


    The Sang brothers and Fang Shi weed wave after wave of people who came to congratte them: prestigious elders, old grannies, youngdies, as well as men both older and of the same age. Families with children taught by Sang Hong also came excitedly to pay their visit, each bringing their children and gifts, hoping to gain some blessings from the top escorted examinee.


    The Sang brothers and Fang Shi became busy untilte at night when they finally managed to send thest group of visitors away.


    Closing the main gate and looking at the various gifts piled up in the house, from eggs, noodles, live chickens and ducks, to pork and sausages, the three of them sighed with a slightly strange expression.


    ¡°Luckily, we¡¯d expected this, otherwise, it would really make us ufortable!¡± Fang Shi smiled, her words had somewhat managed to express the thoughts in everyone¡¯s mind.


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei both nodded in agreement.


    All three of them were down-to-earth so they would not have believed in Sang Pingliang just based on his words unless Sang Yufei, or themselves, had seen it for himself. Assuming tonight was fake, then the joke yed on them would have been a huge one!


    Early on the second day, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju rushed from Yangliu Town to Sihe Vige. The good news had already reached the town yesterday; by tradition, it should arrive at the vige today. And so, they had to hasten their journey.


    Arriving at Sihe Vige, Sang Hong¡¯s house was already very lively. Before Sang Yufei, there was never a person who managed to pass the township exam, so naturally, the vigers were proud of him for making history. They decided to help around in Sang Hong¡¯s house while waiting for the officials to arrive and announce the good news.


    The arrival of Sang Wan and Shi Fengju brought another wave of excitement.


    Everything aside, just the scene of a horse-drawn carriages with over ten brightly-dressed servants riding horses alongside, immediately attracted the attention of the vigers.


    Once the carriage came to a stop, Liu Ya and Zhide, who were dressed in satin clothes which had patterns of green flowers and branches with silver jewelled hairpins in their hair, got off from their carriage and hurried to the front carriage together with several other beautifully-dressed servants. Some readied the steps while others systematically helped with whatever they could. Once Sang Wan and Shi Fengju were helped down the carriage, the crowd was already chattering with excitement and admiration. On top of that, someone had already darted into the house to inform the Sang brothers and Fang Shi.


    Sang Wan¡¯s ensemble had expensive red woven wide sleeves with gold stitchings to match with her coat; cuffs andpels which had two inches of colorfully embroidered cross-stitches including gold and silver threads by the side and a white jade the size of an egg, with a thumb-sized ruby embedded in the middle, acting as a button knot at the front of the neckline. Moving down, was a reddish-orange dress, with eighteen pleats and decorated with numerous butterflies, that would sway from any slight movements to give a brilliant wave. The hair by her temples was decorated with peony flowers to represent the happy asion, but not forgetting an emerald kingfisher hairpin as well as other hair essories. There was nody in the crowd who wouldn¡¯t love those, and they gave a word of praise to the Sang family.


    Then came Shi Fengju in an ocean blue tailor-made satin robe; a beautifully polished jade around his waist and a pair of ck boots with white soles. With a handsome face, upright posture, confident aura, and his ck hair tied up neatly, he and Sang Wan were a brilliant pair when beside each other. The cheers immediately turned more intense as the crowd became more envious of the vige girl. They could not help butment at how Sang Wan was just a mere viger like them less than a year ago, and yet, her present conduct could make them feel inadequate when in her presence.


    ¡°You came!¡± The Sang Brothers and Fang Shi quickly rushed over to wee them with smiles after hearing of their arrival.


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan quickly went up to return the greeting with a smile, ¡°We heard the news in Qingzhou and arrived in town yesterday afternoon to stay a night at an inn before hurrying over today!¡± With that, they congratted Sang Yufei again.


    If even the Shi family came, then the news must be right! Those who were hoping that the Sang Family would end up celebrating for nothing gave up at this moment and had to admit: the Sang Family truly made it this time! In that instant, their feelings changed in favor of the Sang family.


    The atmosphere turned even livelier. The crowd swarmed around them and dragged them into the house to have a sit as well as ask whether they knew when the public officials would arrive. Naturally, Shi Fengju would have gone through the trouble of gathering information, so he smiled and said, ¡°They should arrive at around noon. No hurry, there¡¯s still quite some time!¡±


    ¡°Good, that¡¯s good!¡± The crowd felt relieved.


    Shi Fengju asked Zhan Huan and a few other servants toe up before smiling at Sang Hong and Fang Shi once again, ¡°I¡¯m afraid the officials will be staying for lunch and there¡¯ll easily be twenty to thirty people, so there¡¯s much work to be done. Sang Wan and I bought vegetables, fish, and meat; they¡¯re all in the carriage. Big brother and sister-inw, please arrange them however you must and feel free to make use of these servants who¡¯ll be here to help out.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s right, they came rushing from afar to announce the good news. Surely, they must stay for lunch!¡± said the crowd.


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi thanked Shi Fengju, before holding a discussion with the crowd to make certain of who would be lending the tables and chairs, how the tea should be readied, as well as all the other necessary preparations to be doneÒ» all of which needed the help from the crowd. Although the tasks seemedplicated, it was quickly assigned and settled.


    The number of men chatting in the main hall were many, so Sang Wan did not spend too much time there. After giving her greetings, she stood up to head to another room, apanied by a few otherdies around her age.


    Just when she rose to leave, she heard a hesitant voice call out to her, ¡°Cousin.¡± Turning around to look at the direction where the sound came from, she saw Sang Rou walking in from the outside. Seeing everyone¡¯s eyes on her, the awkward Sang Rou clenched her fist and forced herself to continue forward.


    Earlier in the morning, Sang Pingliang had told Sang Rou to keep an eye on the Sang Family, telling her to report to him if anything happened. The arrival of Sang Wan and Shi Fengju was big news, so it was natural that Sang Pingliang ought to know.


    In that moment, Sang Pingliang wanted to go over and get closer to Shi Fengju with the foolish hope that Shi Fengju would help him say a few words. The Sang Brothers may not have the conscience to even listen to their second uncle, but the Shi family was rich and mighty! So long as Shi Fengju helped him, he was sure that they would not dare to not give him any face!


    Sang Pingliang got surer and surer at the idea but stopped just as he was about to leave to carry it out.


    No! He had to hold back, else the entire n would be ruined! It was not the time for him to appear, not when the officials had yet to arrive! When that timees, he could take advantage of theirck of preparation! But now? Hmph! Those fair-weathered vigers would not dare disgrace themselves in their attempt to get on the good side of the two brothers. Even Li Zheng was taking sides, what about an average person?


    What if, they purposely took the chance to give him trouble and ended up injuring him, wouldn¡¯t that be bad?


    While Sang Pingliang did manage to resist the urge to go over, he could not remain calm. If he was not there, who knows what information they would feed to Shi Fengju and Sang Wan? They were sure to exaggerate and ruin his reputation! That would not do, he had to quickly invite them over first!


    In any case, he had never said to break off ties with Sang Wan, right? Having returned, Sang Wan surely couldn¡¯t avoid visiting her elders, could she? As such, Sang Rou was forcefully sent out of her own will.


    ¡°Cousin,¡± Sang Rou forced a slight smile on her face, ¡°my father has sent me to invite you and brother-inw over to have a word!¡±


    ¡°Qie!¡± The crowd could not help but jeer, ¡°Yi, why didn¡¯t your dade over instead of sending you?¡±


    ¡°Hehe, as if he¡¯d have the face to show up here!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, just look at what he did!¡±


    ¡°His skin sure is thick for having the guts to send someone over to invite them! If I were him, I¡¯d have shamefully shut my door and hid away!¡±


    ¡°Ai, how can wepare ourselves to him!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true, hehe!¡±


    As the crowd jeered, Sang Rou did not dare to make a sound. Her face gradually turned red and then pale as she looked pitifully towards Sang Wan.


    ¡°What, what happened?¡± Sang Wan was baffled, clueless of what had happened.


    ¡°Dear Ma¡¯am, we better go inside to talk! This matter is much more exciting than a y!¡± Thedies voiced.


    Today was a good day for celebration and Fang Shi could not be bothered to get angry, so she smiled at Sang Rou, ¡°Go back and tell your father that our ma¡¯am is busy! If there¡¯s anything, he can talk to her next time! Quickly, go back now!¡±


    While smiling, her eyes were cold, and before Sang Rou could react, a group ofdies were already ¡°persuading¡± her to go home.

 Chapter 116

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 116</h4>


    Fang Shi guided Sang Wan to a room nearby. Then, she excused herself to go prepare lunch to let the female guests have some time to be with Sang Wan.


    The servants followed Sang Wan into the room. As instructed, they served the freshly bought melon seeds and sweets on several tes, then ced them on all the avable tables for the guests to enjoy.


    Outside, Zhan Huan and a few other servants unloaded the meat, vegetable, condiments and alcohol from the carriage, and the rest of the guests helped out as well. Fang Shi gave a string of instructions before getting busy herself.


    The female guests were chirpier than ever as they narrated to Sang Wan the incident which happened over the past two days; of course, with a tiny bit of exaggeration.


    Although Sang Wan had already heard bits and pieces of it from Sang Yufei, she remained dismayed as she listened to the guests. Second Uncle and Second Aunt, their actions were really disheartening!


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, you haven¡¯t heard yet; Sang Pingliang refuses to acknowledge your brothers, but he still ims to be rted to you! Who doesn¡¯t know what he is up to? He is just eyeing at how you are the daughter-inw of the Shi household and is trying to dig from your ce! How dare he have the face to say that! He acknowledges Ma¡¯am but not your blood-rted brothers! If he had lent any help in the first ce, then fine! But that¡¯s not the case!¡±


    ¡°Right!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah!¡±


    The crowd nodded in agreement.


    Then, the crowd became hysterical when the story continued to the next day when the old couple tried to doggedly adopt Sang Yufei. The crowd mocked as if they had witnessed the scene with their very own eyes. Hearing so, Sang Wan found it funny, but also felt frustrated.


    She no longer wanted to listen or talk about such embarrassment and sighed, ¡°Us, three siblings, have grown up relying on one another and have finally achieved some sess. My older brother is an honest man and my second brother will not be home often in the future. If something were to happen in this household here, I hope we can rely on you sisters to help us out! I would be immensely grateful even if it were just a simple act of helping to speak up for us!¡±


    The crowd knew her words referred to Sang Pingliang and his wife. They all nodded their heads and smiled, ¡°That is of course! As humans, we¡¯ve conscience. There¡¯s no way we can just close our eyes and act as if nothing had happened, right? It is only right for us to speak for justice!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and thanked them before leading the crowd to gossip about the happenings in different households. The entire room soon became noisy again.


    After an extended period of time, Fang Shi pushed opened the door while kneading her sore shoulders andughed, ¡°Oh look at me, I was so busy that I¡¯ve ended up neglecting our Ma¡¯am!¡±


    ¡°No, I wasn¡¯t of much help to you. Thank you, sister-inw, for your hard work!¡± Sang Wan got up with a smile before pulling Fang Shi to a seat.


    ¡°What are you saying? How can I let our Ma¡¯am do the work when it¡¯s already rare for you toe back?¡± Fang Shi smiled and added, ¡°Liu Ya, thatss, is being kept busy outside! She has be more capable, and it¡¯s all thanks to her for keep the guests outside entertained that I¡¯ve got some time to rest!¡±


    The two looked like they had more to say to each other and thedies excused themselves to help out outside. Those who were less sensitive and remained ended up getting pulled by the rest.


    Sang Wan and Fang Shi acted modestly as they see the crowd off before returning to their seat to talk.


    Fang Shi said, ¡°I heard from my second brother that these officials will need mary reward. We were discussing that we should give a silver to those in the lead, and five copper coins to the rest; Ma¡¯am, you¡¯re more knowledgeable than me, do you say this arrangement is appropriate?¡± There was a pained look on her face when she spoke about money, and her brows creased as she continued, ¡°Fearing that I didn¡¯t prepare enough, I prepared thirty-six packets. Say, they¡¯re only delivering news, so why the need for so many people? And we¡¯ve also got to prepare lunch for them! Ai, I might have to trouble Ma¡¯am again!¡±


    Zhide was serving at the side. Upon hearing Fang Shi¡¯s words, she pressed her lips together and smiled. This sister-inw is indeed a down-to-earth person!


    Sang Wan could not suppress herughter and said, ¡°This is a big asion, people will look forward to eat a good meal and get a bit of a reward, so why wouldn¡¯t many of theme? Sister-inw, don¡¯t agonise over a few silvers, the days of being poor are numbered already!¡±


    After which, Sang Wan instructed Zhide to take out a big red envelope from her pouch and pass it to Fang Shi. ¡°In here is a note of a hundred silvers. When the officials arrive, have big brother pass this to the person in the lead. They can split it however they want! And once lunch is over, they¡¯ll have no matter with us!¡±


    ¡°A hundred silvers ah!¡± Fang Shi eximed, ¡°This, is too much! I think fifty silvers will suffice! You shouldn¡¯t waste your money like this even if you are rich!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw,¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°This is a joyous asion, being more generous can help to bring more luck! How can you say that¡¯s a waste!¡±


    Fang Shi could only smile and take the money. Feeling a little guilty, she said, ¡°Just look at me, I ended up spending your money again even though I only came to seek your advice, this is really¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, please don¡¯t say that unless you treat me as an outsider!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡± I am also very d that Second Brother has gotten the title of a top escorted examinee! Please don¡¯t say such words anymore, okay? Otherwise, others might see me as a person who sucks up to power!¡±


    ¡°Rubbish! Your Shi Household will soon have to kiss up to the person who just became the top escorted examinee!¡± Fang Shi quickly retorted.


    ¡°The same logic applies!¡± Sang Wan held her hand and smiled, ¡°So, let¡¯s not talk about this anymore. Any more and I¡¯ll feel distant!¡±


    Fang Shi was stunned for a moment, then sheughed , ¡°Alright, let¡¯s not talk about it anymore! We will keep this good turn in our heart!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled, and then said, ¡°Oh right, for such arge piece of good news, don¡¯t we have to treat our neighbors to a meal as well? What do Big Brother and sister-inw think?¡±


    Even though Sang Yufei was the one who had gotten the title, their parents were no longer around so the eldest brother and his wife had to act as his guardians. As such, the decisiony in Sang Hong and Fang Shi¡¯s hands. And because Sang Wan was also married and considered an adult, Fang Shi could discuss with her, which left only Sang Yufei out.


    ¡°Of course we¡¯ll have to treat them! We have already decided to put up a sumptuous meal to treat everyone!¡± Fang Shi proceeded to answer in a pained tone, ¡°Mostly to show everyone, to let them see that our Sang household is no longer the same! After years of cynicism, I can¡¯t help but want to unt this achievement!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, well spoken!¡± Sang Wan smiled. For all these years, the Sang household had received hostility, only looking forward to a day just like this. Now, the time has finallye, of course they must not let this chance go!


    ¡°Vige folks aren¡¯t picky. As long as there¡¯s a spread of fish and chicken, it¡¯s considered good enough. Your brother and I can still afford twenty to thirty tables! So you don¡¯t have to worry about that!¡± Knowing what Sang Wan was going to say, Fang Shi immediately stopped her before she could speak.


    ¡°That won¡¯t be good!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Since we¡¯re going to show everyone, then we should go all out and not be particr about it! Fix a date and we will bring chefs from town to make all kinds of delicacies ¡ª¡ª be it birdnest cooked in shark fin soup. One table is worth around eight to ten silvers. Sister-inw, everyone knows that I am married into the Shi Household. If word spread that the meal was too simple, then people might criticize us for being stingy. So, don¡¯t fret about us helping out!¡±


    ¡°This¡ª¡ª,¡± Fang Shi was too dumbfounded to speak.


    Sang Wan¡¯s words were right. Her husband belonged to the richest family in Qingzhou, with mountains of money. With their inw¡¯s family having a top escorted examinee, it would not look good for them if the spread was too simple. Even if they are not being seen as a scrooge, people would surelyment that the Sang siblings were not close.


    ¡°But, spending so much in one go, you,¡± Fang Shi gave a quick nce at Zhide and asked in the end, ¡°Is your husband fine with it?¡±


    Spending more than a hundred silvers is not a small amount.


    ¡°He is,¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°This is his idea too. But it isn¡¯t convenient for him to say, so I¡¯ll be doing it in his stead!¡±


    Fang Shi nodded and sighed with a smile, ¡°Since you and brother-inw have already put it this way, then there¡¯s nothing more that I can say. Ai, forget it, we¡¯ve already owed you so much favors, adding a little more wouldn¡¯t make any difference!¡± That made Sang Wanugh.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled! I¡¯ll inform Sir about itter!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Fang Shi nodded in agreement. Then, she suddenly leaned closer to Sang Wan and whispered, ¡°Everything else is under control, but there¡¯s just one thing that troubles me yet I¡¯ve had no one to discuss it with!¡±


    Fang Shi pointed towards the direction of Sang Pingliang¡¯s house before pouting and gesturing with her two fingers. She creased her brows and said, ¡°I¡¯m very clear about their personality! However, I¡¯m just afraid that they will create another ruckus when the team of officials arrive! Tell me, what should we do if they do?¡±


    Sang Wan was also at a loss of what to do. The dispute between the two Sang families was known throughout the entire vige, but not the town. What¡¯s more, such a thing like that could be not exined in just a few sentences.


    If Sang Pingliang and Li Shi came and create a scene, there really was no way to deal with them. After all, there was no way they could start a quarrel in front of arge group of audience!


    The peopleing from town would not know of the dispute in detail. What they would be witnessing would be the younger generation not acknowledging their blood-rted uncle, that would surely lead them to think that the Sang brothers were being unfilial. If word spreads, then that wouldn¡¯t be good!


    ¡°For that, what did Big Brother say about it?¡±


    ¡°Him?¡± Fang Shi pursed her lips and said, ¡°What solutions can he give? He¡¯ll surely just say to tolerate them and only confront them after the officials left!¡±


    Fang Shi was clearly unhappy and unwilling, ¡°As if I¡¯d ever let them overshadow us?!¡±


    Sang Wan responded with a sigh, ¡°This time, Big Brother is right; we can only let them be! After all, we can¡¯t stop them froming unless we tie them up with a rope, don¡¯t you say? We can¡¯t make a ruckus in front of the public, else that would dampen the joyous atmosphere. From how I see it, I think Big Brother is right this time, we can only tolerate them for now!¡±


    Fang Shi went silent for a moment, and finally sighed, ¡°Are we really going to give in to them?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and replied, ¡°Other than regaining some face for themselves, what else can they gain? Sister-inw, don¡¯t get too hung up over it!¡±


    After some thought, Fang Shi nodded, ¡°You¡¯re right! It¡¯ll only be for a short moment, we¡¯ll just let them be!¡±


    While the twodies chatted among themselves, a bustling noise could be hearding from outside. ¡°They¡¯re here! They¡¯re here!¡± Someone shouted from afar.


    Fang Shi quickly stood up, ¡°Aiyo, I¡¯ve got to hurry out and see! Ma¡¯am, please stay here and rest for a bit!¡±


    It wasn¡¯t convenient for Sang Wan to head out, so she agreed to see her off at the door.


    Two or three men had hurried back with a message ahead of the officials¡ª¡ªthey were soon to arrive in fifteen minutes!

 Chapter 117

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 117</h4>


    While Sang Hong thanked and rewarded the men, the crowd became excited as they gazed from afar and chattered eagerly at the same time.


    Shi Fengju then instructed Zhan Huan to invite the few men to have some tea and snacks and inquire about the number of officialsing, their status, and more. After getting hold of the information, Zhan Huan conveyed them to Fang Shi through a maidservant. Fang Shi was taken aback and quickly went to the kitchen to make the arrangements.


    Not long after, the festive music could be heard from afar. As the team of officials approached, the music became louder and many children were already rushing up to watch the lively scene. In a brief moment, officials, who wore a ck robe edged with red and a high hat on their heads, arrived grandly in front of the crowd.


    In the middle of the team, an official was carrying a scarlet tray that had arge piece of red silk clothid over the parchment. A few officials also held red boards with words ofmendation painted in ck and an auspicious drawing of a carp leaping over the dragon¡¯s gate. The team was in an orderly fashion and the percussionists drummed loudly from behind, creating a grand and festive atmosphere!


    ¡°They¡¯re here! They¡¯re here!¡± The crowd hurried forward to wee them.


    ¡°Hehehehe! Sirs, thank you for your hard work! And thank you, everyone!¡± Dressed in bright outfits, Sang Pingliang and Li Shi appeared out of nowhere like ghosts and weed the officials with cupped hands ahead of everyone else. Their abrupt greeting and unnaturally high voice took Sang Hong and the rest by surprise. Even the drum beats went momentarily out of sync.


    However, the officials did not take notice and merely assumed that the elders must have acted oddly from the excitement. After all, they had witnessed such an instance numerous times already. In that split moment, they regained theirposure and the drum beats regained its level again.


    ¡°Not to worry, not to worry!¡± The leader of the team greeted with a smile.


    Earlier on, Sang Hong had already arranged for a group to prepare the firecrackers. At this moment, they were set off and the crackling sound exploded in the air, filling the surroundings with a thick sulfur smell. Apanied by the jaunty sounds, it was a jubnt moment.


    As the firecrackers died down, the drumming gradually stopped as well. The team leader smiled and sang out loud, ¡°We are here to send our felicitations to the top escorted examinee. Congrattions to the top escorted examinee! Congrattions!¡± After he was finished, he brought the tray forward. By then, the crowd had already squeezed Sang Yufei to the front. The official kneeled on one knee and held the tray up high with both his hands.


    ¡°Please invite an elder forward to remove the cloth and read out the words on the parchment!¡± An official, well-versed in etiquette, reminded in a moderate volume.


    ¡°Me¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Pingliang rushed forward excitedly. But before he could say he would do it, Sang Yufei was quick to answer. ¡°Let us invite Li Zheng over!¡± He sped his hands together and bowed respectfully to Li Zheng before saying, ¡°You are the vige head. Furthermore, you¡¯ve watched over us over all these years. Please do not refuse my request!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah, yes ah! Everyone here hopes so too, so go for it!¡± The crowd despised Sang Pingliang and wanted to keep him out of this. Whether knowingly or unknowingly, they pped their hands and cheered with much excitement while pushing the despicable man to be back.


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll do it!¡± Li Zheng was very happy. He cupped his hands and went up, ignoring Sang Pingliang¡¯s silent re.


    Everyone watched as Li Zheng went up and removed the cloth. Holding the golden-red parchment in his hands, he read aloud with a huge smile, ¡°Sang Yufei, from Qingzhou Yangliu Town¡¯s Sihe Vige, has gotten first ce in the township exam!¡±


    ¡°Good, good!¡±


    ¡°Congrattions, congrattions!¡±


    Even though the news was already been made known long before the officials had arrived, the crowd could not help but be excited when Li Zheng articted the words aloud. Everyone gave a burst of apuse and congratted Sang Yufei.


    The officials also smiled and gave theirpliments.


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei got busy returning thepliments. Sang Hong then went to pass a red packet to the leader before inviting the officials into the house to rest and have some tea. With lunch catered for, Sang Hong also invited them to stay for lunch.


    The officials had already smelled the aroma of the food wafting from the kitchen. They rejected half-heartedly and eventually relented as they entered the house with Sang Hong.


    ¡°Everyone, thank you foring! We¡¯ll prepare a banquet another day to thank all of you! Many thanks!¡± Sang Hong and Fang Shi bowed to the crowd and thanked everyone foring to observe the ceremony.


    The crowd knew Sang Hong¡¯s family had to entertain others. Other than Li Zheng and a few respectable elders in the vige who stayed behind to lend theirpany and prepare the spread for the officials, the others did not wish to disturb them and happily left.


    The main room was not spacious enough so only the more senior officials and Li Zheng sat inside. As for the rest, they dispersed across the front yard or sat in the corridors while the servants served them tea and snacks.


    Before, Sang Pingliang and Li Shi had no chance to act as they were blocked pushed to the back by the crowd. Since there was no one left to stop them, they rushed into the house and invited the officials to sit down with a huge smile stered on their faces. Only words of politeness left their mouths and they ordered the servants around with their loud voices to make and serve the tea. It was all a show to emphasize their significance in the household.


    ¡°And this is¡ª¡± The leader was a little startled. Isn¡¯t he the one who had greeted us first but was either intentionally or unintentionally ignored by everyone else? By any chance, is he part of the top escorted examinee¡¯s family? And from the way he acted, he seemed to be the Sang family¡¯s elder.


    Sang Pingliang heard the official¡¯s question but did not rush to answer him. He smiled and nced towards Sang Yufei affectionately. Forcing Sang Yufei to address him as Uncle in front of everyone else was exactly what he wanted.


    However, while Sang Pingliang had the restraint, Li Shi did not. Hearing no answer, she immediately shouted, ¡°Our mister is Yufei¡¯s blood-rted uncle! And Yufei¡¯s our blood-rted nephew!¡±


    Yufei? While the leader of the team was still recovering from her unexpectedly intimate way of addressing Sang Yufei, Li Zheng and the few other elders scolded, ¡°Outrageous! How dare you call the top escorted examinee by his name! You ignorant woman, there¡¯s no ce for you here, please leave!¡±


    The officials were enlightened: So that¡¯s the case!


    But after witnessing the woman getting scolded, their heart pounded heavily: There¡¯s sure to be a story behind this!


    As members of the court, they were quick-witted and hid their thoughts well. They merely nodded at Sang Pingliang courteously and smiled while sipping their tea.


    ¡°Mister!¡± Li Shi said in resentment as she looked towards Sang Pingliang.


    Sang Pingliang was not in any position to help her and merely grunted, ¡°Didn¡¯t you notice that all here are men? Leave now and stop making a fool of yourself! Go to the kitchen and make yourself useful; serve these officials wellter!¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± That perked Li Shi up and she puffed her chest as she left.


    However, Fang Shi was the one in charge in the kitchen; nobody paid any attention to Li Shi even as she wandered around in the kitchen. They treated her as air, and when she tried to speak to them, they would briskly reply to her to avoid any further questions. That filled Li Shi¡¯s stomach with anger.


    ¡°Officials, today must¡¯ve been tough on you. Hehe, please enjoy the good food and drinks that¡¯ll be readied in a while!¡± Sang Pingliang then sighed, ¡°Our Sang family has finally made it! It wasn¡¯t easy for my dear nephew!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, the top escorted examinee is still young, he will have a bright future ahead of him!¡± One of the officials smiled and said.


    ¡°Indeed! I can finally live afortable life ahead, hehehe!¡± Sang Pingliang then went on to talk about how difficult it was for him to raise all three of them after their parents passed away at an early age and the relief he felt after seeing them gradually bing sessful.


    As his audience was oblivious to the actual story, they felt immense respect towards Sang Pingliang andmented positively to his words.


    But they soon realized that something was amiss because other than Sang Pingliang, everyone else, including the Sang Brothers and Li Zheng, were silent.


    The officials were bemused.


    One of them tactfully changed the topic. Letting out a light cough, he smiled, ¡°This tea is good. It has a sweet scent and tastes good. Even the color of the tea is pleasing to the eyes!¡±


    An elder smiled and pointed at Shi Fengju, ¡°That is to be expected! This tea is brought by the Sang daughter and son-inw. They wouldn¡¯t bring anything that is of low quality!¡±


    Everyone smiled and agreed.


    A thought suddenly came to mind for one of the officials and he eximed, ¡°Sang family¡¯s son-inw; isn¡¯t, isn¡¯t he the oldest son of Shi household that is regarded as the richest family in the whole of Qingzhou?¡±


    Everyone¡¯s eyes gleamed with interest; much more than when speaking about Sang Yufei.


    ¡°Haha! That is but a baselessbel given by others. It is not worth anything!¡± Shi Fengju smiled politely.


    ¡°Eh! So this is the Shi family¡¯s oldest son!¡± Everyone became excited and smiled while greeting Shi Fengju with cupped hands. Shi Fengju smiled and returned the greetings. Soon, everyone started chatting with one another and the atmosphere lightened a little.


    Sang Pingliang went along with everyone else, but he quickly seized an opening to add, ¡°Not to forget, my nephew-inw is a great man! He is so humble and filial! Whenever he returns, he woulde over to visit me as well! Hehe, big brother in heaven will be very proud to know that his daughter married such a good man!¡±


    Shi Fengju felt extremely ufortable upon hearing his words, and he disliked being misunderstood. Without the need to consider familial ties, he smiled and said coldly, ¡°You are too courteous. Including this time, Sang Wan and I only came back twice. I cannot ept yourpliments! Anyway, you have your own daughters, talking about being filial isn¡¯t for you to say!¡±


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s face reddened and he smiled embarrassedly to the rest, ¡°He¡¯s just being courteous, too courteous!¡±


    ¡°No, not really. Your words are the ones that are courteous!¡± Shi Fengju smiled slightly and said, ¡°I am only speaking the truth!¡±


    Li Zheng and the rest of the elders grumbled uneasily to themselves because of Sang Pingliang¡¯s foolishness and the Shi family¡¯s eldest son¡¯s disy of strength. However, what was good was Shi Fengju¡¯s own straightforwardness as well as his good heart.


    Everyone quicklyughed it off and changed the topic, but Sang Pingliang had a stomach full of resentment.


    Fortunately, not too long after, Li Shi hurried over with a broad smile, ¡°The food is ready. Everyone, pleasee with me!¡±


    Everyone got up altogether.

 Chapter 118

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 118</h4>


    The weather in the afternoon was good. The dinner tables were ced right in the front yard of the house. There were a total of four tables with enough seats for everyone, including the Sang brothers, Shi Fengju, the vige seniors, and Li Zheng.


    The women served the food and wine before leaving.


    In the kitchen, there was another table. It was for the people who helped out to have their lunch. The spread on this table was simpler, but the food was still of prime quality.


    When the officials saw fish, chicken, duck, and a variety of meat, paired with the best wine in town, they were delighted and courteously took their seats. The Sang family are prudent people!


    Li Shi went into the kitchen and looked around, ¡°Aiyo, have the dishes for our Ma¡¯am Sang been prepared? I¡¯ll bring it to her!¡±


    The women in the kitchen smiled and answered, ¡°Sister Fang has already sent it, why would she wait for you?¡±


    Li Shi turned and headed to the nearby room after hearing their reply, ignoring their mockery behind her.


    Sang Wan and Fang Shi sat facing each other while they ate, and was startled for a brief moment when Li Shi barged in.


    ¡°Oh, Sang Wan¡¯s already eating! Hehe, I thought nobody would care about you and went to order them to prepare food for you. Who¡¯d have thought that your sister-inw had already brought food over for you!¡±


    Fang Shi could not even be bothered to put down her chopsticks. She raised her head and smiled faintly, ¡°This is my house and Sang Wan is like a younger sister to me. Should I not receive and treat her as well? You should stop worrying about anything irrelevant! I see that you¡¯ve been busy the whole morning, why don¡¯t you go to the kitchen and help yourself to the food?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled quietly and lowered her gaze.


    Li Shi was expecting Sang Wan to urge her to stay, but Sang Wan acted as if she had not heard their conversation and remained silent. Li Shi sat of her own ord and smiled, ¡°I¡¯m not going back to the kitchen; it¡¯s inconvenient with so many people there. I¡¯ll stay here and share the meal with you!¡±


    ¡°Up to you, but there are no empty bowls here!¡± Fang Shi said without expressing any emotions.


    Li Shi was about to return to the kitchen to take a bowl, but she did not wish to be mocked by those rude women in the kitchen. Looking ahead, she saw Zhide standing at a side and smiled, ¡°Can I trouble this missy to help me grab a bowl and a pair of chopsticks from the kitchen?¡±


    ¡°Second Auntie Sang, you shouldn¡¯t order people around like that! She belongs to the Shi family and is a guest here as well, understand?¡± Fang Shi frowned and said.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t she Sang Wan¡¯s maidservant? I¡¯m Sang Wan¡¯s blood-rted aunt, can I not even order her maidservant around?¡± Li Shi said indifferently.


    ¡°You¡ª¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw!¡± Sang Wan could hear the vehemence behind Li Shi¡¯s words, and Li Shi¡¯s words surely angered Fang Shi greatly. But if a ruckus were to happen, the guests outside would be able to hear and that wouldn¡¯t be good. She gently stopped Fang Shi before saying to Zhide, ¡°Go! She¡¯s an aged person and should not be ill-treated!¡±


    Sang Wan made it clear that her gesture was out of politeness and not kinship.


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am!¡± Zhide did not really mind. She bowed and turned to leave.


    ¡°So only Sang Wan still knows etiquette!¡± Li Shi looked at Fang Shi gleefully before speaking to Sang Wan with a smile while patting on her hand. After scanning Sang Wan from head to toe with her greedy eyes, sheplimented, ¡°Aiyo, Sang Wan, your golden hairpin and the material of your dress looks expensive! They look really beautiful!¡±


    Her eyes gleamed as she spouted neverending praises. Her questions ranged from the material of the clothes to the type of flower crafted on her hair, and her hand stubbornly refused to let Sang Wan¡¯s hand go. ¡°Aiyo, even this golden bracelet is embedded with so many gemstones; it¡¯s so beautiful! Hehe, whichever family that owns this can really make it their family¡¯s heirloom!¡± Her hand could not help but stroke the bracelet gently as if she wanted it for herself.


    Sang Wan just gave her a mollifying smile but did not offer to give the bracelet to her. Fang Shi could not stand to watch this any longer and she roughly pushed away Li Shi¡¯s hands before saying, ¡°Oh Second Auntie Sang, how do you expect Sang Wan to eat like this!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not even talking to you, so why are you cutting in!¡± Li Shi grunted unhappily and red at Fang Shi, ¡°I think you should get out there and check the situation since there¡¯s still so many things waiting for you to do!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not for you to worry about!¡± Fang Shi retorted.


    Right at this moment, Zhide came in with a bowl and a pair of chopsticks. Sang Wan watched as Li Shi took the bowl and chopsticks happily before getting up with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m feeling a little tired. I¡¯d like to have a rest, although I¡¯m not sure if Sister-inw¡ª¡ª¡±


    Fang Shi quickly smiled and said, ¡°Your room has already been tidied. I¡¯ll send you over, rest well!¡±


    After she finished, she pulled at Sang Wan to leave.


    ¡°Sang Wan, sit down and chat with me more. It¡¯s broad daylight, why are you going to rest? If you rest too much, it won¡¯t be good for you body!¡± Li Shi stood up and wanted to block Sang Wan from leaving.


    Zhide subtly moved to obstruct her and said with a slight smile, ¡°In the Shi household, my ma¡¯am is used to taking a rest everyday at this hour and does not like being disturbed when having her rest. Aunty, please have your meal!¡± With that, she quickly followed behind Sang Wan.


    ¡°Shameless, so shameless ah!¡± Fang Shi fumed as she stared at Sang Wan, ¡°Luckily, you didn¡¯t fall into her trap! I see that you¡¯ve learnt a lot from the Shi household. Now you¡¯re acting more like ady from an established family! If this were in the past, hehe!¡±


    Sang Wan knew what she was hinting at without her finishing her sentence. With Sang Wan¡¯s past personality, she would havepletelyplied with Li Shi¡¯s words and give the bracelet to her. However, today, she did not!


    ¡°Sister-inw, just listen to what you¡¯re saying! Am I that naive?¡± Sang Wan smiled and said.


    But she sighed to herself. Her past life had taught her a painful lesson. In life, there are some who cannot be treated nicely because they will never feel grateful and will continue to seek benefits for themselves by taking advantage of others.


    ¡°Eh, I did not say that!¡± Fang Shi swiftly disagreed and the both of themughed.


    Li Shi was secretly upset. She sat her bottom down and mumbled to herself, ¡°The richest in Qingzhou, yet look at her stinginess! She didn¡¯t even seem like she wanted to give that worthless bracelet to her elder, really!¡±


    The officials ate and left Sang Hong¡¯s house, satisfied with the food. The Sang Brothers and Li Zheng went to see them off at the gate.


    ¡°Li Zheng and all the seniors here, we would like to arrange a spread in two days time to treat the vigers. I would like all of you toe as well!¡± Sang Hong bowed to them and announced.


    Everyoneughed and epted the invitation. The top escorted examinee was the pride of their vige! Moreover, they might be able to receive some of the blessing he had!


    Li Zheng grabbed Sang Hong¡¯s hand and smiled, ¡°If there¡¯s any help you need, please tell us. This piece of good news is something that should be celebrated as a vige, everyone will be willing to give you a hand!¡±


    ¡°Yes ah, yes ah!¡± The vige elders smiled and said.


    Sang Pingliang still remained unshaken and spoke arrogantly to Sang Hong, ¡°Much preparation is needed for it. You¡¯re young and inexperience; what do you know? Let me be the one to handle this instead!¡±


    ¡°How can we trouble you with our own matters?¡± Fang Shi overhead him as she came out and could not help but interrupt!


    ¡°For a woman, do you think you¡¯re in the position to speak? Li Zheng and all my old brothers, did you see how disrespectful and unfilial this woman is towards her elder? How could she be worthy to be our top escorted examinee¡¯s sister-inw? Ah Hong, you have to do away with your rtionship with her!¡± Sang Pingliang scolded with a face full of anger. His self-esteem was regained after everyone treated him courteously during lunch just then and he immediately scolded with an inted ego.


    ¡°You¡ª¡± Fang Shi was infuriated but Sang Yufei quickly indicated for her to stop.


    Sang Yufei whispered quietly to Shi Fengju and said, ¡°Brother-inw, you must be tired. Why don¡¯t you go take a rest in your room for a while?¡±


    Having an outsider witness a family feud was embarrassing.


    Shi Fengju was aware of the situation and agreed. After bidding farewell to Li Zheng and the rest, he turned to leave.


    ¡°Eh ya, nephew-inw, you can¡¯t just leave!¡± Sang Pingliang became agitated and held onto Shi Fengju¡¯s arm as heined, ¡°Nephew-inw, you¡¯re knowledgeable about etiquette; you must speak up for me! Tell me whether a disrespectful woman like Fang Shi should be dealt with!¡±


    Everyone else understood Shi Fengju¡¯s intention to leave and knew it was only for the best as he could not speak his heart out in front of others. But they were at a loss after seeing Sang Pingliang¡¯s disgusting actions as no one would be so thick-skinned as to pull someone back.


    ¡°That wouldn¡¯t be good!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said. He freed his arm from Sang Pingliang¡¯s grasp before saying, ¡°There are Li Zheng and the elders present. Ask them to make the decision instead of me as I am but an outsider. Please forgive me for not intervening! Aiya, my head¡¯s feeling a little dizzy. I¡¯ll go take a rest, apologies for my absence!¡±


    ¡°Please do!¡± Everyone bade him farewell as they watched Zhan Huan help him to his room. Sang Pingliang wanted to pull him back, but Shi Ming and a few other men stepped forward to stop him.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Sang Pingliang red at everyone else, ¡°This must be part of your n, right? What? Are you afraid that my nephew-inw will speak up for me?¡±


    Sang Pingliang terribly wished that the word ¡°nephew¡± could be reced with ¡°son¡±. If the Shi family¡¯s eldest son was his son-inw, these people would be grovelling at his feet. There was no way they¡¯d dare to be this rude towards him if Shi Fengju were his son-inw!


    ¡°Old Brother Sang, speak with your conscience, that white paper with ck words is noughing matter! If you continue to fool around, don¡¯t me me for being heartless and disregarding our rtionship as neighbors!¡± Li Zheng said coldly.


    ¡°You think I¡¯m scared?¡± Sang Pingliang couldn¡¯t care less at this moment. He pointed at Fang Shi and said coldly, ¡°This rude woman is disrespectful to her elder, and neither is she filial. Instead of speaking up for me, you threaten me. Are you really fit to be the vige¡¯s officer?¡±


    ¡°Outrageous!¡± An elder, with white hair and beard, named Uncle Liu was so furious that he scolded, ¡°Is there anyone who speaks like you? You¡¯ve already cut ties with them, so why should they still be respectful to you? Just look at your own preposterous face, do you think you deserve to be treated with respect? Let me tell you, not just Li Zheng, we elders are also present, so watch your attitude!¡±


    The rest of the elders nodded, ¡°That right. All these years, have you helped Ah Hong and his brother with anything? When Sang Wan got married, did you help prepare her dowry? No, not at all! Not just that, you even bullied them and took advantage of them. Are there even uncles like you? Oh, and you were the one who insisted on cutting ties. Now that they¡¯re tasting sess, you try to use your status as an elder to exploit them. Aren¡¯t you being too greedy!¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you guys the same!¡± Sang Pingliang said angrily, ¡°Did you guys give them any help in the past? Aren¡¯t you guys just doing the same as well!¡±

 Chapter 119

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 119</h4>


    ¡°You!¡± Furious, Li Zheng and all the elders were at a loss for words.


    ¡°Mister Sang, what is the meaning of those words?¡± Sang Yufei said coldly. ¡°The elders here are not rted to us brothers by blood, but they still went out of their way to stand up for us in times of trouble! Towards them, we brothers have nothing but respect. Furthermore, when have they tried to take advantage of us? Or rather, how were we not aware? Before saying such words, don¡¯t you think you should first reflect on yourself?¡±


    ¡°Ai, please don¡¯t say that. That is something we ought to do!¡± , ¡°Yes ah!¡± After hearing his words, the elders felt relieved.


    ¡°You, how dare you talk back to me, you¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Pingliang became flustered.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Uncle Liu scolded, ¡°Sang Pingliang! I must warn you, don¡¯t me us for being heartless to you in the future if you continue with your shameless behavior of harassing the Sang brothers.¡±


    ¡°Heartless? So what?¡± Sang Pingliang sneered, ¡°Are you going to kill me? Come at me if you¡¯ve the balls! Whoever backs out is the loser!¡± Sang Pingliang shouted and pointed at his own head.


    Watching his ridiculous action, the crowd felt exasperated and amused. Sang Hong and Sang Yufei looked at each other in the eye and felt utterly embarrassed; this was their uncle who shared the same blood as them!


    ¡°Killing you will only stain my own hands!¡± Uncle Liu threw him a look of disdain before adding coldly, ¡°The people in Sihe Vige cannot tolerate people like you who are greedy and ruthless. If you dare to cross the line again, then leave this vige!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right! Try us if you dare!¡± All the elders were furious, and their expressions were as cold as ice.


    The Sang Brothers¡¯ expressions changed slightly when they heard the elders. They didn¡¯t expect matters to escte to such a point. Sang Pingliang¡¯s eyes widened; they were going to kick him out of the vige!


    That would be a terrible ending for him as he would lose the vige¡¯s protection and be a nomad from then on. Furthermore, no vige would ept an exile as they were often scums of their former vige and would only spell trouble.


    The only ces left for him and his family would be in other parts of the country. And even so, it would be an arduous process to reintegrate. Alternatively, he could adapt to the city life. But there, even a de of grass would cost money; it wouldn¡¯t be so easy to survive!


    ¡°As if you¡¯d dare!¡± Sang Pingliang was intimidated, but he refused to back down and scoffed, ¡°Fine! All of you are shameless enough to team up to bully me! All of your consciences must¡¯ve been eaten by dogs! I, I¡¯ll report all of you to the government!¡±


    ¡°You rebel!¡± Uncle Liu shouted. ¡°Today, you disrespect as well as disregard your elders! With just your words, who do you think the government would help; us or you? You wish to report to the government? Go ahead! Nobody will stop you!¡±


    Uncle Liu abruptly turned to Sang Hong and Sang Yufei before ordering with a low voice, ¡°Pay no mind to this person from today onwards! Do what you must to avoid him. Whoever dares to sue you guys for being unfilial, you cane and find me. This old man will stand up for you!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right! You cane and find us!¡± All the elders, as well as Li Zheng, agreed unanimously as they looked at Sang Pingliang in disgust.


    ¡°Alright, enough now! Us elders should return! These few days must¡¯ve been exhausting for you; quickly go back and rest! If there¡¯s anything, you can find us for help! We¡¯ll help with whatever we can! Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go now!¡± Uncle Liu took a deep breath and smiled.


    Everyone agreed and they bowed to bid each other farewell before taking their leave. Fang Shi pulled at Sang Hong¡¯s arm and then signaled to Sang Yufei. They ignored Sang Pingliang and went back into their house, closing the front gate to their courtyardpletely.


    Thete autumn afternoon looked rather deste as rays of splintered sunlight shone on the ground.


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s face turned white as he muttered hatefully between his teeth, ¡°Bastards, the lot of you. Just wait and see, don¡¯te begging at me when I strike a fortune!¡±


    He raised his head before spitting at Sang Hong¡¯s front gate, ¡°Worthless! There¡¯s a saying that the higher you climb, the harder you fall. I¡¯m going to keep my eyes peeled to witness that fall!¡±


    After he was done, he scoffed and walked back to his house with long strides.


    Never had he felt so sullen before! The more Sang Pingliang thought, the angrier he got. The wings on those two brats have really grown thicker!


    Raging, Sang Pingliang vented his wrath on Li Shi the moment he reached home. Li Shi felt indignant for being scolded, but she did not dare to challenge him head on and could only swallow down her resentment as she received his fury. When his anger cooled off a little, she raised her head and said, ¡°Mister, there¡¯s no need for us to get so worked up over our status! Nobody can deny our biological rtions with them. I don¡¯t believe that they would just ignore us if we be too poor to see the doctor or feed ourselves, would they? If they would, then I, I would sit at their doorsteps and see what they can do about that! Anyway, isn¡¯t there still Sang Wan? We didn¡¯t cut ties with her!¡±


    Sang Pingliang was startled for a moment before his anger eased a little.


    This vile woman seemed to be talking some sense. ¡®If we really were to be broke, I don¡¯t believe that they would watch their biological uncle and aunt starve to death!¡¯ Sang Ping Liang thought about how he wished that they could became broke the next second. Unfortunately, he knew that was impossible as well!


    Although what she said did make sense, but his mouth still refused to admit it. He continued to keep a straight face and said, ¡°What nonsense about fame and status, watch your words!¡±


    Suddenly, he could not help but feel a sting, ¡°Who knows how many gifts thatd is going to receive and we cannot even get anything at all!¡±


    ¡°Aiya, that, aren¡¯t we making a huge loss there?!¡± Li Shi also felt the same.


    ¡°Heng!¡± Sang Pingliang stared at her coldly and said, ¡°It¡¯s all your fault! If you hadn¡¯t treat them cruelly, we wouldn¡¯t have suffered like this!¡±


    ¡°I¡ª¡ª¡±, Li Shi thought in her heart, ¡®Aren¡¯t you the same, you are stingier than me! You were not the least bit kind to them at all!¡¯ However, she did not have the courage to speak up against Sang Pingliang.


    ¡°How did Sang Wan treat you?¡± Sang Pingliang asked abruptly.


    ¡°Quite good! Hehe!¡± Li Shi showed a victorious smile andplimented, ¡°Sang Wan isn¡¯t the same as that Sang Family who doesn¡¯t have a heart! She did not treat me as an outsider.¡±


    Sang Pingliang nodded and said, ¡°Maintain a good rtionship with her and make her have a more favorable opinion of you. Tonight, go and kill a chicken. Make some good dishes and prepare a pot of good wine. Let¡¯s invite Sang Wan and her husband over for dinner tonight!¡±


    He couldn¡¯t take a hold of Sang Yufei so there¡¯s no way he could just let Sang Wan slip out of his hands. That would really cause him great misery!


    ¡°Ah? Oh... Okay then!¡± When Li Shi thought about having to kill a chicken, she felt very unwilling. But after Sang Pingliang red at her, she agreed unhappily. Their family with that kind of background, do you think they won¡¯t have eaten chicken? Maybe they prefer to eat the wild nts from the countryside instead! I¡¯ll just cook half of the chicken and leave the other half for ourselves tomorrow.


    Sang Wan went into the room just to avoid Li Shi, not really to take a nap. Thus, she removed only her outer robe and rested against the bedside. She covered her upper body with a nket and started talking to Zhide to get rid of her boredom.


    Not long after, they heard a knock on their door. When Sang Wan realised it was Shi Fengju, she quickly put on her robe and got out of bed to open the door with a smile, ¡°Why are you here too? What about my big brother and second brother?¡±


    ¡°They have some things to settle,¡± Shi Fengju gave a vague smile and an equally ambiguous answer, ¡°I¡¯m feeling a little dizzy and I came here to lie down for awhile!¡±


    ¡°Oh, then please do!¡± Sang Wan looked at him suspiciously. There wasn¡¯t a strong smell of alcohol on him and he was not someone with a low alcohol tolerance. Was he avoiding something or someone on purpose? Sang Wan thought about his arrival and a smile suddenly formed on her face; she finally understood what had happened.


    ¡°Eh, what are you smiling at?¡± When Shi Fengju rested on the bed, he saw her peculiar smile and found it strange.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Sang Wan quickly dismissed, ¡°Just lie there and rest. I won¡¯t be able to make you some hot soup now, so how about some tea for you to sip at instead?¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and nodded. He nced at Zhide before saying, ¡°Let Zhide do it!¡±


    Zhide bowed slightly and left. Sang Wan sat on the stool at the bedside, and started to talk intermittently to Shi Fengju. They finally went out after a little more than half an hour.


    Everyone had the same understanding and did not speak about Sang Pingliang and Li Shi. They focused on finalising the arrangement of the banquet to be held in two days and Sang Yufei¡¯s future prospects after bing the top escorted examinee .


    ¡°I¡¯m thinking of sending Zhan Huan and Auntie Li (TLN: Zhan Huan¡¯s wife, Li Yan) back to town in a horse carriage to purchase all the ingredients that are needed in the next two days. Two dayster, they can bring the chefs from Chun He Restaurant together with them. Altogether, that is pretty affordable!¡± Shi Fengju said.


    Sang Hong had already heard from his wife about the intentions of his sister and brother-inw. He did not show any signs of refusal and thanked Shi Fengju sincerely, ¡°Sorry to trouble you, brother-inw!¡±


    ¡°Big brother, please don¡¯t be so polite!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°I am merely giving out instructions, if you feel bad about it, just reward the servants that are doing the hard work!¡±


    Rumours and gossips tended to sprout when there were people. Although the Shi servants were acting under the instructions of their masters, they might feel some resentment without any tips. If word spreads, it would affect the Sang family and Sang Wan. This is the real reason why Shi Fengju had asked the Sang brothers to reward to the servants instead.


    ¡°Yes, Yes!¡± Sang Hong quickly nodded in agreement, ¡°That is for sure! I¡¯ll definitely reward them heavily and not miss out on anyone!¡± He gave some instructions to Fang Shi which she agreed readily. In her mind, she thought about how she should have another private talk with Sang Wan to discuss about the amount of tips she should give to a servant so that no one would talk badly about them.


    ¡°Oh right, I believe that the people from different viges and towns might head down to visit in these two days,¡± Shi Fengju pondered. He nced towards the Sang brothers and said with a smile, ¡°I suppose big brother and second brother should know that these people won¡¯t be turning up empty-handed. May I know how you will respond to their goodwill?¡±


    ¡°Second brother, you are the one who¡¯s be the top escorted examinee and they¡¯re here for you. I won¡¯t make any decisions for you so you can decide to respond to their goodwill however you want! There¡¯s no need to take me into consideration as I will support you no matter what your decision is!¡± Sang Hong had gone through many years of education and he knew that these visits were out of fraternity. However, that did not mean that their gifts were not without agendas. epting their gifts would mean that you were indebted to them and who knew what favor they would want in the future.

 Chapter 120

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 120</h4>


    Sang Yufei¡¯s eyebrows creased together unwittingly. He hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°Big brother, Brother-inw, I have to prepare for next year¡¯s Metropolitan exams. There are all sorts of people in the country, I think it¡¯ll be better if¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Hong understood his reasoning and nodded, ¡°We will wee those whoe to congratte us, and threat them with courtesy. As for the gifts, let us not ept them!¡±


    ¡°I thought so too!¡± Sang Yufei immediately let out a breath of relief. He did not speak his mind previously even though he had finally achieved some sess from working hard over so many years because his big brother and sister-inw deserved to share the fruits of his sess as well. However, if he were to reject the gifts, they would receive nothing.


    ¡°That isn¡¯t right,¡± Shi Fengju shook his head and said, ¡°We¡¯re a family so I¡¯ll just say it outright. Second Brother, you¡¯re afraid that your reputation might be harmed by the people with bad intentions. However, you are all neighbors; if you reject their goodwill, some might see you as being arrogant and unfriendly. Second Brother, forgive me for saying this, but that will not do you any good!¡±


    ¡°That, we can¡¯t let that happen, right?¡± Sang Hong was taken aback. There will be a negative consequence for not epting the gifts?


    ¡°Brother-inw, you¡¯re right!¡± Sang Yufei¡¯s expression darkened as beads of cold sweat formed at his back. The reputation of being lofty and aloof often meant that one is unsociable. How can he be an official with such traits? That would be terrible!


    ¡°We didn¡¯t consider the consequences carefully... As for this matter¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Yufei creased his brows and said, ¡°Forget it, we¡¯ll ept their gifts first! After that, we¡¯ll prepare a gift of equal value in return!¡±


    Quietly, Shi Fengju approved his words. If Second Brother is able to think this way, then he still has a chance to seed in the officialdom. If he were to think like his big brother, then he must be persuaded from joining the ranks of the officers or else he would be a pushover when under pressure. But that wasn¡¯t the worst of it. If he were to identally offend someone, his own life would be on the line.


    ¡°The return gift can be of a lesser value than the gifts given. People will understand that you¡¯ve received their goodwill!¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile.


    ¡°Right,¡± Sang Yufei nodded his head with a smile.


    Sang Hong sighed and said, ¡°Brother-inw has seen more and is able to think through issues more thoroughly. Alright, as I¡¯m less familiar with this, I¡¯ll leave this discussion between you two! I¡¯ve no objections whatsoever so long as it¡¯s good for Yufei!¡±


    ¡°Big brother!¡± With a feeling of warmth, Sang Yufei looked at Sang Hong appreciatively.


    Shi Fengju said again, ¡°Not just that, there will be many others who will turn up wanting to be servants as well. As for them,¡± Shi Fengju raised his eyebrows and said, ¡°They¡¯re mostly people who want to take a shortcut. There will be no benefit in leaving them in the household, so do reject them properly. If you need servants at home, put in a little more effort and buy them from the middlemen to put yourself at ease. If you are unsure about this, you can just let me know when you¡¯re looking to buy one in the future!¡±


    The Shi family were naturally familiar with doing business with Qingzhou¡¯s middlemen and the Shi¡¯s head servants had a system to follow when picking servants.


    Sang Yufei replied courteously and said, ¡°If there is any help that I need in the future, I¡¯ll have to trouble Brother-inw again. Let me give my thanks in advance!¡±


    ¡°Second brother, you are too polite!¡± Shi Fengju nodded and smiled.


    While the three were discussing at a corner, Fang Shi was sewing soles while speaking to Sang Wan at another. Sang Quan, Sang Nuan, Liu Ya, and Xing Zhi wereughing and ying in the front yard.


    ¡°Eh, I can see that our brother-inw is a good man. He is genuinely caring, which is had toe by!¡± Fang Shi elbowed Sang Wan and sighed happily.


    ¡°Big sister-inw...¡± Sang Wan could only smile in return.


    ¡°I¡¯ll just speak frankly with you!¡± Fang Shi sighed and said, ¡°Our brother-inwes from such a prestigious background, but he is able to treat us like his family. This already ces him above many others! Sang Wan, you are really blessed!¡±


    Sang Wan stammered and her smile became a little unnatural. It was impossible for her to not feel diffident about this. Compared to her past life, his treatment towards her was better by too many folds and it even extended to her family as well. However, he still remained ambiguous about their rtionship even though he would asionally give her a smouldering gaze which never failed to make her face blush and her heart throb. Just what is the meaning of this?


    And there was still that Gu Fangzi who would always be a thorn in her heart. To think that she could create so much trouble even when she¡¯s mourning; Sang Wan genuinely believed that the day Gu Fangzi¡¯s mourning period ends would be the day she deres on war upon her. When that day finally arrived, would he be able to treat her the same way?


    As the saying goes, ¡®Give the dog a bad name and hang him¡¯. Gu Fangzi had established her status in the Shi Household for many years and was taken care of as a biological daughter beside Wang Shi. She was also Shi Fengju¡¯s childhood sweetheart since young. Compared to Sang Wan, Gu Fangzi had everything! No, what Sang Wan had was an unreasonable and capricious sister-inw who picked on her at every chance she had!


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes dimmed a little and she sighed silently to herself.


    ¡°Right,¡± Fang Shi did not realise the change in her mood and asked softly, ¡°Are you expecting?¡±


    ¡°Ah? What?¡± Sang Wan was in a daze and did not hear her. Only after Fang Shi nudged her did she respond hazily.


    Fang Shi red at her and mused, ¡°What what, I¡¯m asking you whether you are expecting yet.¡±


    ¡°Ye¡ª¡ª No...¡± , Sang Wan was stunned for a moment before realising what she was asking and her face turned red while shaking her head slightly.


    ¡°You ah!¡± Fang Shi shook her apprehensively and said, ¡°Don¡¯t treat this lightly! Have you seen a doctor yet? The Shi family are notcking in wealth, so go find a renowned doctor for help and eat some nourishment as well! I see that brother-inw does not look like a miser and your mother-inw could not have said anything against this, right? After all, this is all for their Shi¡¯s next generation!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, big sister-inw! I understand, I understand!¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled and responded . The more she listened, the more unbearable she felt.


    ¡°You ah! How can I not worry when you¡¯re far too short-sighted!¡± Fang Shi groaned and said, ¡°You must take this opportunity to give birth to a child while that vixen is still mourning! With your status as the firstdy of the household, a son by your side and a top escorted examinee as your brother, you will never be threatened by that vixen no matter how good the tricks up her sleeves are!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, I¡¯ll remember your words!¡± Sang Wan wished to end their topic quickly and swiftly agreed. Taking a nce outside, she said, ¡°The time isn¡¯t early anymore, what will we be eating tonight, sister-inw?¡±


    Fang Shi red at her before letting out a sudden burst ofughter, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t mistreat your husband! Look at you, acting all worked up about it!¡±


    Sang Wan did not know how to reply so she conceded silently with a smile.


    ¡°En, it¡¯s quitete already, I¡¯ll go and make dinner! Help me to look over those two kids and don¡¯t let them fool around!¡± Fang Shi got up and said.


    ¡°Xiao Nuan and Xiao Quan are well-behaved kids! Why would they fool around!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said.


    ¡°Those two cows! Oh please! You better notpliment them!¡± Fang Shi said while patting her robe.


    Sang Wan could not help but giggle before getting up as well. She stood at the door and watch over the two siblings while they yed with each other.


    Before it was time for dinner, Li Shi knocked on the door with Sang Yan with her. She grinned as she invited Shi Fengju and Sang Wan over to her house for dinner.


    Shi Fengju had seen enough of their shamelessness so he quickly made an excuse to escape from Li Shi while letting Sang Hong¡¯s family handle them.


    Li Shi was much easier to shake off than Sang Pingliang. Along with the words from the elders and Li Zheng, Fang Shi herself was sufficient to get rid of her.


    ¡°How could we let our dear sister-inw and her husband go over to your house for a meal? If word were to spread, people would point at our backs and speak badly of us, saying that we¡¯re bad brothers and sister-inw! We can¡¯t ept such a bad reputation!¡± Fang Shi said without any hesitation while she pushed and shoved Li Shi out before quickly locking the front door.


    Having been pushed out without the chance to speak to Sang Wan, Li Shi was so infuriated that she started knocking on the door while shouting deafeningly. That was all ignored by Fang Shi and she acted as if she had heard nothing.


    Fang Shi¡¯s door did not open but the all neighbors beside them opened their doors and criticised her actions while shaking their heads at her disgraceful behavior.


    ¡°Mother, Mother, let¡¯s go home, let¡¯s go back!¡± Sang Yan was so flustered that her face turned red as she tugged at Li Shi¡¯s sleeve anxiously.


    ¡°Go... go... what back!¡± Li Shi forcefully flicked a finger on her daughter¡¯s forehead and said sternly, ¡°What a useless girl, you can¡¯t do anything right!¡±


    ¡°Mother! What has this got to do with me!¡± Sang Yan felt indignant and her tears immediately fell. She covered her face and ran in the direction of her home.


    ¡°Dumb girl! Why are you throwing sh*t on me too! You crawled out from my womb, yet I can¡¯t win you over! Where did you learn such defiance!¡± Li Shi scolded and returned home without a choice.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t manage to invite them?¡± Sang Pingliang¡¯s face darkened. He grinded his teeth and said, ¡°Fine! Those mean people! I am inviting Shi Fengju and Sang Wan, what has it got to do with them! Let¡¯s see if they can keep their doors shut forever!¡±


    ¡°They left?¡± The noise outside stopped and Fang Shi came out of the kitchen with an apron.


    Liu Ya immediately ran to peek at the gap under the door and nodded to Fang Shi, ¡°They left! Don¡¯t worry! Seriously, we should have treated those kind of people like this from the start!¡±


    ¡°Eh, you have a conscience, little girl; able to differentiate the right from the wrong!¡± Fang Shiughed heartily.


    ¡°Of course! I have been unhappy with her since, forever!¡± Liu Ya raised her head. Before, Li Shi had scolded her and Sang Wan so much and always asked her to help out with hardbor. She even threaten to sell her countless of times, giving her a terrible scare. She had been living with Sang Wan for so many years and are just like sisters, how could she bear to leave?


    ¡°Hehe, good girl! Your house¡¯s missy has not been nice to you for nothing!¡± Fang Shiughed again and returned into the kitchen.


    After dinner, everyone sat for a while before leaving wearily.


    Zhan Huan and the rest of the servants went back to town so the lodging was settled without much difficulty.


    Considering how there might be people visiting early the next day, Shi Ming remained to help out and he slept on a mattress in Sang Yufei¡¯s room. After all, Sang Yufei¡¯s status was no longer the same; there are some things that would be inconvenient for Sang Yufei to do. Sang Hong is his older brother, so it would be inconvenient for him as well.


    Sang Quan slept with his father and gave his room to Zhide and Liu Ya. Fang Shi would be squeezing in a room with Xu Ma and Sang Nuan. Sang Wan and Shi Fengju would be sleeping in the room Sang Wan stayed in before she got married.


    It was only after the door was shut when Sang Wan realized there was a problem. There was only one bed and nket, how were they going to sleep?


    She gave a fleeting glimpse to Shi Fengju and her face turned red.

 Chapter 121

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 121</h4>


    At first, Shi Fengju was oblivious to the situation. But he came to a realisation when he saw how his wife was acting awkwardly. His lips curled into a smile as he purposefully ignored her hint while yfully watching her reaction.


    ¡°It is quitete now, let¡¯s get some rest! There are still many things to settle tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengju said casually.


    ¡°But¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Wan furrowed her eyebrows and said, ¡°There, there is only one bed and nket, how do we sleep...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, let¡¯s just put up with it!¡± Wasn¡¯t this the perfect time to feign ignorance?


    ¡°You!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s eyes reddened and she turned her back away.


    What¡¯s the meaning of this? ording to the contract they made, he would divorce and send her away from the Shi Household next year to get together with his beloved childhood sweetheart. Yet, he spoke frivolously to her now. What did he see her as?


    Shi Fengju became distressed and he quickly tugged at her arm, ¡°Sang Wan, I have no ulterior intentions. Sorry, sorry, please don¡¯t be angry!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes dimmed. It seems like she¡¯s adamant about keeping a distance from me and is still nning to leave me! After trying so many times, her attitude is still the same as before! Sang Wan ah, Sang Wan, can¡¯t you feel my love for you from the way I treat you? I want us to continue to be married, to be together forever, only with you!


    Sang Wan used her handkerchief to wipe her tears away as she shook off his hand.


    ¡°Sang Wan, I am so sorry, please don¡¯t be angry anymore! I, I was only joking with you!¡± Shi Fengju smiled reluctantly as he apologised profusely. However, his fists were clenched tightly by his side. Sang Wan ah, Sang Wan, so long as I have no intentions of letting you go, you won¡¯t be able to leave my side. Even if your heart is made of stone, I¡¯ll be sure that it melts eventually.


    A joke! A bitter feeling rose in Sang Wan¡¯s heart. Oh, so it was only a joke! To think her heart got so agitated by that a moment ago; her mind must have thought too much!


    ¡°Where are you going!¡± Shi Fengju was startled when he saw her walking out and he quickly pulled her back.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting another nket from my sister-inw!¡± Sang Wan said hatefully, and shook off his hand forcefully.


    That stunned Shi Fengju momentarily before he smiled gently. She¡¯s angry, and was she feeling a little jealous? Er... or was he thinking too much? Shi Fengju touched his nose. Regardless, seeing how her abrupt tantrum made him feel somewhat relieved.


    When Sang Wan brought another nket over, Shi Fengju had already regained hisposure. He quickly rushed forward to take it. ¡°Sang Wan, the floor is cold, I¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan remained quiet and got onto the bed with her clothes on before making space for him, ¡°The countryside is quite chilly at night, so be careful not to catch a cold. You, you can sleep here!¡±


    Unlike the Shi household where the floor wasyered with thick carpet or they had an extra mattress, the Sang household had none of those. Sang Wan did not dare let him sleep on the floor. If he were to catch a cold and any servants spoke a word about it to Wang Shi, Wang Shi would definitely make a big fuss about it. Not just her inws, even her family would me her for not taking care of him well. Furthermore, she was not that evil to watch as he caught a cold...


    ¡°Alright!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and ced the nket on the bed. After he removed his shoes, he got on the bed and let the bed curtains down before lying down while sighingfortably.


    In the end, the bed was truly morefortable. He had notin on a bed in a long time.


    Afraid that Sang Wan would be put on edge again if he were to speak his heartfelt words, he merely let out a sigh.


    However, Sang Wan was not ignorant and could understand the subtle meaning behind his sigh. She hurriedly turned her head to face the side of the wall. She honestly felt bad about letting him sleep on the floor, even though he was the one who suggested he sleep on the mattress. But even then, she didn¡¯t expect him to persist with it for so long. She assumed that he would eventually give an excuse to sleep in the study room after just a few days.


    That night, Shi Fengju slept very soundly. He did not dare to cross the line to touch her, hug her, or even kiss her, even though she was lying on the same bed as him! When he turned his head, he would be able to see her and her sweet scent would fill his lungs. That put him in a better mood than usual. He never knew he was someone who was so easily contented. Justying by her side and his heart was filled to the brim with bliss.


    Contrary to Shi Fengju¡¯s state of bliss, Sang Wan was having trouble sleeping. Rather than being worried that Shi Fengju would act inappropriately ¡ª she could still trust his values after all ¡ª it was the mere fact that there was another man lying beside her and she was left with less space than usual. This made her feel a little perturbed and she did not dare to fidget or breath too loudly. In the middle of the night, the sound of his even breathing and the sensation of his warm breath on her face and neck gave her a significant amount of distress so she only managed to fall asleep after a long while.


    When she woke up the next day, it was alreadyte in the morning. As she opened her eyes slowly, she realised that Shi Fengju¡¯s head had shifted to her side unknowingly, almost as if he was sleeping soundly on her shoulder. Her neck was tingling as she felt his breathing.


    Sang Wan was shocked momentarily. When she nced over at the man, she saw how he was still in a deep slumber with his eyes shut. She quickly calmed herself down and moved away gently before exhaling slowly. She sat up after a while and nudged him, ¡°Mister, Mister, wake up!¡±


    Shi Fengju was actually awake after her fidgeting. However, he was just afraid that she would feel even more awkward if he showed signs that he was awake. He swore to the heavens above that he wasn¡¯t trying to take advantage of her and was unaware about what he did in his sleep. Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t me him, right? After all, he was asleep and wasn¡¯t conscious of his actions...


    Shi Fengju felt a sudden rage towards himself... why did he agree to be a fake couple with her on the day of their marriage! Really, he had brought his own misery upon himself and he couldn¡¯t go back on it! Even though he had gone through all the marriage ceremonials to marry her, he couldn¡¯t even touch her!


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Shi Fengju acted like he had just woken up and slowly opened his eyes. He blinked and said, ¡°Wow, the sky is already so bright!¡± Then, he smiled and sat up before asking, ¡°Did you sleep wellst night?¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Sang Wan nodded vaguely and said softly, ¡°Move to the side a little, I¡¯ll bring your robe over!¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Shi Fengju moved to let Sang Wan to get off the bed and take out his robe from their bag to help him put it on.


    Since morning, Liu Ya had her sleeves rolled up and was helping Fang Shi in the kitchen. She left Zhide to wait at the front of the room to serve the pair. When Zhide heard some noise from the room, she knocked softly and shouted, ¡°Sir, Ma¡¯am!¡±


    After Sang Wan opened the door, Zhide saw the pair was already dressed. She smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting in front of the door since early morning. Why didn¡¯t Ma¡¯am signal for me instead? Nubi will head over to fetch some water for you to wash your face!¡±


    By the time the pair had finished grooming, Sang Hong and Sang Yufei had gotten up as well. After a quick chat, they sat down to have breakfast. Not long after, the people started streaming into their house to pay their visits to Sang Yufei.


    Landlord Lu from the neighbouring Lujia Vige; Wan family from Yangliu Gulf; and a rich man from Xiao Luan Vige came to visit. In thete afternoon, the townspeople and many more people from other neighboring viges came. Even the heads of the households turned up as well. Some families even sent their sons and their headservants over to pay a visit. They all brought plentiful gifts: money,nd, houses, servants, old-antiques and artworks, birdnest and ginsengs, expensive silks and satin. The list went on.


    Liu Ya and Zhide were in charge of receiving the guests and serving them tea while Shi Ming was in charge of ushering the guests in and epting gifts and name cards offered. Everything was done in an orderly manner. The guests came with amon understanding that there were other visitors as well and did not fuss over the Sang family¡¯s top escorted examinee¡¯s sparse attention. They sat down happily and left before the seats turned warmed, parting with words to meet again in the future.


    Sang Yufei epted all the gifts except the servants. The visitors wanted to persuade him by letting him know that the servants they brought were honest people and he could sell them if he was not satisfied. But after seeing Shi Fengju, they understood that the Shi household would have more than enough servants to spare for Sang Yufei. The movement of these two maidservants serving them were even more graceful than ady from a wealthy family. And as for the two servants doing the ushering, one could tell that they were not from ordinary family!


    As for the houses that were given as gifts, Sang Yufei made clear that he wasfortable living in Sihe vige and did not intend to move. Thus, the houses would not be of use even if he were to ept them. He rejected their kind offers and the visitors did not insist but merely thought of recing the houses with other valuable gifts.


    While the Sang family was busy receiving visitors and epting gifts, Sang Pingliang and Li Shi were restless with jealousy. Sang Pingliang was being careful after the warning by the elders and did not dare to make a ruckus at Sang Hong¡¯s house again, but he was reluctant to gain nothing out of Sang Yufei¡¯s sess. Thus, when it turned dark, he sent Li Shi over to make an attempt to grab a share of the gifts for themselves.


    Seeing Li Shi actions, Sang Hong was soonpelled to give in as he sighed to Sang Yufei and said, ¡°Let¡¯s just give them something. This will never end and we¡¯ll be aughingstock!¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we just inly letting them take advantage of us!¡± Fang Shi was unhappy.


    Sang Yufei smiled bitterly and sighed, ¡°Big brother is right, we can be mean with our words, but cannotpletely cut them off with our actions. After all, our blood still ties us!¡±


    Fang Shi went silent. Despite the unpleasantness of Sang Pingliang and the separation of the two families, the ties between them were predetermined by fate and there was no denying them. If they really went overboard, there was no guarantee that the vigers¡¯ attitudes would still remain the same; they might even be deemed as being cold-blooded. Thus, they should ease up a little.


    After all, kindness was a key virtue to being human.


    ¡°Alright! Don¡¯t intervene with this matter anymore, I will give them what they want!¡± Fang Shi patted her chest and said. Alright, they¡¯ll get what they want, but words that the two brothers cannot say, it¡¯ll be better for me to do so.


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei thought about it and agreed.


    And so, Fang Shi brought with her a hundred silvers, two rolls of cloth, and a quarter of a kilogram of bird nest, to Sang Pingliang¡¯s doorstep together with Liu Ya.


    Li Shi and Sang Pingliang saw how she took the initiative toe to their house and instantly became cocky again; they started grumbling about the gifts being too little. Fang Shi smiled coldly and said, ¡°You think it is too little? How much are you guys nning to contribute when we are returning the gifts to these visitors? Why don¡¯t we find Li Zheng and Uncle Liu to discuss?¡±


    That finally shut their mouths.


    ¡°Eh, Liu Ya, quickly bring Sang Wan to over to our house for a visit! We have always treated her as our dear blood-rted niece! I¡¯m sure she isn¡¯t as cold-blooded as her brothers and sister-inw!¡± Li Shi stopped Liu Ya.

 Chapter 122

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 122</h4>


    Just listening to them talk would only shorten her life! Fang Shi rolled her eyes before taking her leave.


    Liu Ya was no longer the Liu Ya in the past. She smiled and said, ¡°Really? When my ma¡¯am got married, I clearly don¡¯t remember you contributing to her dowry in any way. You must be the first aunt under this vast sky to treat her dear niece-inw in such a way!¡±


    ¡°You!¡±Li Shi was furious, ¡°How dare you! How dare a mere servant talk back to me, you renegade!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a small servant who does not belong to your family, so who are you to scold me? All I did was speak the truth, how is that talking back? Fancy you scolding me, who are you to me?¡±


    Liu Yaughed coldly, ¡°I¡¯d advice the both of you to restrain yourselves a little! And please, don¡¯t think everyone is foolish! The Shi Household is only able to reach today¡¯s sess not without wit! I¡¯ll be honest with you, my sir especially hates greedy people like you, why would he let here over to your filthy house? If you¡¯re smart, you¡¯d stop pestering my ma¡¯am. Otherwise ¡ª¡ªhehe. Let¡¯s say that my sir is capable and has his means, how else would he be able to control hundreds of shops and tens of thousands of people operating on both sides of the river? Hmph!¡±


    ¡°You, you!¡± Sang Pingliang was so furious that he was out of words, ¡± Those words, who taught you those words? Huh?¡±


    ¡°I dare say, Mister, you¡¯re a clever person, I don¡¯t think I have to tell you else you might not be able to keep your face!¡± Liu Ya said coldly, ¡°You can put the hat on whoever you think might fit it, but most importantly, you should listen to me well! Otherwise, otherwise, even I do not know what might happen to you either!¡±


    Sang Pingliang was feeling both mad and shock. He was sure it was Shi Fengju who made Liu Ya said that. Really, he did not think that person would be ¡ª¡ª would be so ¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Don¡¯t think that the whole world belongs to the Shi household! Hmph, is he not afraid that his reputation would be ruined if I tell the world what he said?¡±


    Liu Yaughed as if she had heard the funniest joke in the world, ¡°Sure, go ahead! My sir hasn¡¯t been alone with you, nor has he said anything to your face, right? What you do will be equivalent to nder and that willnd you in jail! Furthermore, if you think you can ruin my sir¡¯s reputation with mere words, then you must be crazy! Really, there¡¯s no point in talking to people like you! Think about what I said slowly, will you? I¡¯ll be taking my leave now.¡±


    Liu Ya finished off with a slight grin and left.


    Sang Pingliang sank into his chair. His clenched fist trembled as he screamed rudely, ¡°Outrageous! Outrageous! That b*stard, b*stard!¡±


    However, he was really afraid this time around and could only vent out his anger by cussing.


    He dared to pick on the Sang brothers due to his rtionship with them as their biological uncle. He was used to bullying them and he was confident that if the brothers went against his wish, he could vent his resentment on them by creating a big fuss. Moreover, he knew that Sang Yufei had a reputation to keep.


    However, Shi Fengju was not the same; he was never a threat to him. If Shi Fengju did not acknowledge him, then that was so. If he were to piss that man off, just a gesture from that man¡¯s finger and a quick instruction would be enough to put him in a predicament with no chance toin.


    Sang Pingliang finally became more docile after Liu Ya¡¯s words.


    The visiting at Sang Hong¡¯s house was finally over after two days. It was time to wee the vigers to a grand spread.


    What was odd was that no one from Sang Pingliang¡¯s family came to attend. Sang Hong then asked Fang Shi to invite them over. Fang Shi was toozy to go there alone so she asked a neighbour to apany her. However, it was as if Sang Pingliang and his wife had eaten the wrong medicine as they excused themselves from the asion.


    There was no way the Sang brothers would know that they were scared off by Liu Ya. Sang Hong instructed a servant to send some food to them and that they epted.


    The Sang Brothers¡¯ actions received praise by the vigers for being generous and empathetic.


    After the busy days, things finally settled down. Shi Fengju and Sang Wan were ready to return back to Qingzhou.


    Sang Wan found it difficult to bid farewell before they left and she reminded Sang Yufei yet again, ¡°Second Brother, when you travel through Qingzhou while on your way to the capital for your exams, you muste and see me!¡±


    The capital was a thousand miles from Sihe Vige. The way forward would not be smooth and the weather might get rough. Just that thought alone worried her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will! After all, I¡¯ve promised your mother-inw to meet with Fenghua. I¡¯ll definitely go and find you,¡± Sang Yufei smiled.


    ¡°That¡¯s good!¡± Sang Wan finally felt more relieved and she smiled, ¡°Then we¡¯ll be waiting for you in mid-October¡±


    ¡°Second Brother,¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°you need to stay in the capital for a few months; it would be inconvenient for you if you¡¯ve no one to care for your well-being there. A servant who serves in the study room is different from an average servant. An unsuitable one will only bring you more trouble. If you don¡¯t mind, Shi Ming will follow you from now on!¡±


    ¡°This¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Yufei looked over at Shi Ming. When he saw a nod from Shi Ming, he understood that Shi Fengju had already talked with him already.


    ¡°Second Brother, just ept Brother-inw¡¯s goodwill. I also think that Shi Ming is quite smart and alert! It¡¯s just that, we owe brother-inw another favor yet again!¡± Sang Hong cupped his hands and bowed. He was also feeling a little uneasy about his younger brother travelling a long distance by himself. In any case, Shi Ming had been a great help for the past few days. He was indeed a clever and alert person.


    ¡°Thank you, kind sir, for your praise!¡± Shi Ming smiled and bowed.


    That made everyoneugh.


    ¡°Big Brother, there¡¯s no need to be so courteous about it. Then this is settled!¡± Shi Fengju then scolded Shi Ming, ¡°So much for the praise! Listen carefully, from today onwards, you no longer belong to the Shi household. You¡¯re now Young Master Sang¡¯s servant. Now quickly, bow to your new owner! Do your tasks well, don¡¯t give me shame!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sir!¡± Shi Ming quickly gave a kowtow to Sang Yufei to acknowledge him as his new owner. Feeling a little sad about leaving his former owner, Shi Ming looked at Shi Fengju eagerly after getting up and asked, ¡°Will this servant still be able to see you in the future, Sir?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying!¡± Shi Fengju was amused and he scolded, ¡°Our families are inws, it¡¯ll be difficult for you not to see me around. I¡¯m really curious what goes inside your head!¡± He then turned to Sang Yufei and said, ¡°Shi Ming will serve you while you study. If he dares to disobey you or is unruly towards you, you can just punish him or sell him away; you don¡¯t have to seek my opinion about it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m confident that Brother-inw¡¯s servant will not act brazenly! You¡¯re overthinking this, but I¡¯ll be sure to keep that in mind.¡± Sang Yufei smiled and said.


    ¡°I will definitely serve Young Master Sang with loyalty, don¡¯t worry sir!¡± Shi Ming straightened his back and said with pride. Shi Fengju had a few personal servants; Zhan Huan was responsible for the external affairs while Shi Ming was in charge of helping out in the study room most of the time. Before, Shi Fengju ordered him to serve Ren Zhixian but he was condemned by Ren Zhixian. Behind his back, Shi Ming harbored a huge amount of resentment towards him. As a professional, his many years of serving Shi Fengju was without criticism, yet why was he deemed not good enough when serving Ren Zhixian? Now that he was assigned to serve Sang Yufei, he swore to do his best and not let Sang Yufei have anything to pick on with him. He deemed me as not good enough to serve him in his studies? Now that I¡¯m going to serve a top escorted examinee, who might even be next year¡¯s top ranked schr, I¡¯m sure he¡¯lle to realize whether I¡¯m truly good enough to serve in the study room or not!


    When Shi Fengju and Sang Wan finally left, the Sang brothers began looking through the gifts that they had received from the past few days.


    Not doing so would have done them well as they received a huge shock after spending the day doing a count. They had received nearly a thousand acres of fertilend, four thousand silvers, and the rest were priceless antiques amounting to two or three hundred pieces.


    The brothers begun to worry about their preparations for the return gifts. The mary gifts were fine as it could be used to purchase the return gifts. However, the physical gifts received could not be passed on to others. Not only that, whether the mary amount received to purchase the return gifts was enough as well as the courtesy of buying them was a whole frontier of knowledge by itself. The town itself might not even be able to attain any precious items to be the case of a return gift.


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei were all troubled. Never did they imagine that acquiring the return gifts would be so difficult!


    Moreover, this matter could not be dragged on for too long. In a month, Sang Yufei would be heading to the capital and would be staying for eight to ten days in Shi household. ounting for that, Sang Yufei would have to leave from Sang Hong¡¯s housetest by mid-october.


    ¡°Sirs, don¡¯t be too anxious,¡± Shi Ming smiled and said, ¡°My former master has informed me that, in awhile, he will send a few servants over to hand you your gifts. After all, My former master has yet to give any gifts to Young Master Sang to congratte you!¡±


    Sang Hong and Sang Yufei immediately eased a little and sighed, ¡°This would have been difficult to handle if not for brother-inw!¡±


    Sang Hong then reminded Sang Yufei, ¡°When you are in Shi household, please interact more with his younger brother. It¡¯ll be a form of repaying your debt to him!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Big Brother! Third Young Master Shi and I got off at a good start and we¡¯re quite fond of each other!¡± Sang Yufei smiled.


    ¡°That¡¯s good! I¡¯ll be more relieved this way!¡± Sang Hong smiled and said. Initially, he was a little worried that the Shi family¡¯s third child, being the youngest, would be spoilt. It would be inevitable if he had a little prince syndrome. Sang Hong was just about to advise his second brother to treat Third Young Master Shi nicely for the sake of their brother-inw, but who knew that they would hit it off!


    ¡°Oh right!¡± Fang Shi suddenly smiled and said, ¡°Yesterday, Auntie Wang from Yangliu Gulf came and had a talk with me. Second brother, you are not young anymore. Before, you were afraid that a rtionship would affect your studies. We¡¯re relieved that you¡¯ve be the top escorted examinee, but shouldn¡¯t you also give more thought to your marriage? I heard from Miss Wang that there are a few good missies out there!¡±


    ¡°Your sister-inw is right!¡± Sang Hong nodded and said. ¡°You have to start putting some thoughts into it already! Sang Wan already has a partner to rely on which leaves me with one less thing to worry about. If you get married and form a family, I can finally feel relieved entirely! That Auntie Wang won¡¯t rmenddies carelessly. If she said they are good, we should ask her and find you a suitable partner! ¡±


    ¡°No need, no need!¡± Who knew that Sang Yufei, who was always obedient, would suddenly get all flighty as he almost jumped like a cat whose tail had been stepped on. He quickly rejected and said, ¡°Please don¡¯t! Big brother, and big sister-inw, I still don¡¯t want to think about that now! Please hold it off until after my exams!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say that you have to get married immediately, it¡¯s just to have a look! If they are really good, then we should arrange one and wait for you to return next year to get married! Good missies don¡¯t wait! If you miss it, you miss it!¡± Fang Shi smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry! I am not a greedy person who desires wealth, I won¡¯t simply fix one for you! I¡¯ll make sure to find out everything about those missies¡ª¡ª personality, appearance, everything!¡±

 Chapter 123

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 123</h4>


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean it that way!¡± Sang Yufei quickly replied, ¡°Of course, I believe in sister-inw¡¯s capability. It¡¯s just, just that, I don¡¯t want to think about it yet! Big brother and big sister-inw, please help me to refuse any offers about arranging a marriage for me of any sort. Anyway, let¡¯s talk about this only after my metropolitan exams next spring.¡±


    Sang Yufeiughed self-deprecatingly, ¡°Who knows, I may not pass the metropolitan exams. Won¡¯t it be embarrassing if the family, whose missy is betrothed to me, looks down on me or decides to break the engagement after I fail?¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡±


    ¡°Shh, don¡¯t jinx yourself!¡±


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi both red at him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t speak that way, who talks about himself in such a way!¡± Sang Hong was very disgruntled.


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Fang Shi said, ¡°If that¡¯s what you are fretting about, then don¡¯t worry! Even if you don¡¯t pass this time, nobody will dare look down on a top escorted examinee. Besides, it doesn¡¯t mean that you won¡¯t pass on the next try! Am I right? The years pass by quickly and you are really not young anymore. If not now, then when? Once your marriage is settled, we can start the preparations early at home too!¡±


    ¡°Really, there is no need for that!¡± Sang Yufei became even more anxious even as he tried to be patient and keep his cool, ¡°Maybe, maybe there will be a better girl for me in the future, so why the rush? I really don¡¯t have the mood for this matter right now!¡±


    Perplexed, Sang Hong and Fang Shi looked at each other. This young man must have eaten the wrong medicine. Why was he getting all edgy? They had never seen him lose his cool before!


    ¡°Second brother, tell me honestly, do you already have someone else on your mind?¡± After all, Fang Shi was a lot more perceptive than Sang Hong, and she asked, quickly smirking.


    ¡°No, no! Big sister-inw, what are you saying? Why would I?¡± Sang Yufei hurriedly shook his head and denied profusely.


    Fang Shi was even more certain of her own spection. She smiled and said, ¡°If you do have someone on your mind, that¡¯s fine too! Tell me which household she¡¯s from and I will arrange for the matchmaker to propose marriage. Won¡¯t doing that put you at ease? ¡±


    ¡°Big sister-inw,¡± Sang Yufei smiled wilfully, ¡°Where will I meet a missy when all I do is study? Really, I don¡¯t want to think about this right now.¡±


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi coaxed him repeatedly but Sang Yufei refused firmly. After a few failed attempts, the couple could only put his marriage matters at rest.


    Meanwhile, in the carriage, Sang Wan felt grateful for what Shi Fengju had done for her family. She diligently served tea and snacks to him.


    ¡°Will your business be affected? After all, you¡¯ve been away for quite awhile.¡± Sang Wan inquired with a smile.


    ¡°Nope, I¡¯ve already made the necessary arrangements beforehand. If there was anything urgent, someone would have ridden a fine steed to bring news to me. Don¡¯t worry about it!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear!¡± Sang Wan smiled in relieved and said, ¡°Otherwise, I would have felt bad for troubling you.¡±


    Shi Fengju suddenly sighed and said, ¡°But when I return, there are sure to be many things to settle! After all, some decisions cannot be made by the workers and will have to be put on hold until I return!¡±


    Sang Wan immediately felt a sting of guilt, ¡°Won¡¯t that tire you out?¡±


    ¡°It surely will!¡± Shi Fengju pressed his temples and grumbled, ¡°The Shi household is an enormous empire. From the small to big matters, there are hundreds to handle in just a single day. But there isn¡¯t a choice, this is my responsibility as the eldest son!¡±


    Sang Wan felt sorry for him, ¡°Sir, have the workers make the decision for matters that aren¡¯t so important, so don¡¯t tire yourself out! You didn¡¯t have a good rest these past few days so remember to take some rest when you¡¯re back. It¡¯s not aughing matter if you fall sick!¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Shi Fengju nced at her meaningfully and smiled, ¡°I actually had a good rest these past few days, really!¡± I had a good sleep lying beside you every night. I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll have to return to sleeping on the floor tonight¡ª¡ª


    Shi Fengju raised his eyebrows unwittingly. He might not be able to adjust back to the previous lifestyle after sleeping sofortably for the past few days.


    Sang Wan was stunned for a moment, but finally understood the meaning behind his expression. She blushed and looked at him askanced.


    Shi Fengju saw her quick re at him, but he found it coquettish and adorable. He instantly felt an urge to caress her face but he restrained himself. He coughed and asked jokingly, ¡°I lent a big helping hand to your family this time, have you thought about how you are going to return the favor?¡±


    Return the favor? Sang Wan¡¯s heart skipped two beats. Of course she had to, but¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Sir, how would you like me to do so?¡± Sang Wan asked calmly but her insides turned to jelly as she thought about all the different requests he might make.


    Shi Fengju raised his head and deliberated, ¡°It actually isn¡¯t anything too difficult, how about cooking a meal for me?¡±


    ¡°Certainly!¡± Sang Wan felt relieved. She smiled and said, ¡°Tomorrow, I will go to the kitchen and cook a few good dishes for Sir.¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to amodate to my taste, just cook the dishes you¡¯re best at!¡±


    Sang Wan thought about it and chuckled, ¡°I don¡¯t seem to have any dishes that I cook best, so I think I will just cook your favourites! It definitely won¡¯t be as good as the chefs at home, so please don¡¯t be too picky about it!¡±


    The twoughed and joked throughout their journey. The carriage was light and fast and they arrived at the Shi Household not long after.


    As the horse carriage entered through the gates, Shi Fengju got off first before reaching out to help Sang Wan off. Sang Wan was momentarily shocked, but gave her his hand on reflex as she got off the carriage with his help.


    ¡°Let¡¯s wash up first before greeting Mother¡±


    Hearing that, Sang Wan nodded with a smile. Before she had the chance to reply him verbally, Gu Fangzhi appeared in her grieving clothes. She bowed elegantly to greet them, her eyes shimmering as she smiled, ¡°Big cousin! Sister! Wee back!¡±


    The smile on Sang Wan¡¯s face froze and she immediately felt like her high spirits were brought down. She smiled politely and nodded, ¡°Sister, why have youe?¡±


    Gu Fangzhi nced flirtatiously at Shi Fengju but took the initiative to hold Sang Wan¡¯s arm as sheughed gently, ¡°I came to wee you and Big Cousin when I heard that you¡¯re back! Is your family doing fine? While you were gone, Aunt missed you dearly!¡±


    ¡°We will go and greet my mother in awhile. If there is nothing, you can head back first!¡± Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows. In the past, he saw her as a damsel and felt the need to protect her. These days, he felt ufortable even looking at the lovely face he had once adored in the past, almost as if there was a fake mask stered on her face.


    ¡°Then I shall not disturb Big Cousin and Sister!¡± Gu Fangzhi smiled and left.


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan remained silent on their way back to Ning Garden. What remained between them had always existed; avoiding it did not mean it had entirely disappeared! There was a bitter taste in Sang Wan¡¯s mouth.


    Back in Ning Garden, they went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce after getting themselves properly dressed.


    When Wang Shi saw that they had returned, she had a bright smile and asked numerous questions. When she heard how bustling and joyous the it was, she sighed happily and said, ¡°I wonder if Fenghua will manage to pass the provincial exams. If he does, that would be great!¡±


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry! Third brother is smart, surely he will pass! Who knows, maybe he will be a top escorted examinee as well!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and said.


    ¡°Hehe, that will be great, that will be great! When that timees, our Shi household will get to celebrate too!¡±


    ¡°No doubt!¡± Shi Yumei chimed in.


    After sitting for awhile, Shi Fengju excused himself to settle some matters in the business. Wang Shi reminded him to take care of himself before letting him leave. However, she had Sang Wan remain to chat with her and the subject naturally revolved around Sang Yufei.


    As they were spoke, Shi Yumei coughed a little and gave a seemingly harmless smile while asking, ¡°I assume arge sum of silvers was spent on this asion with all the many guests and the huge banquet?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face froze, but she admitted without denying, ¡°That¡¯s right. It wasn¡¯t a small amount. Most of the arrangements were decided by Sir, so I am not too sure about the exact amount.¡±


    ¡°Oh, how could you not know? All these were done especially for your blood-rted brother!¡± Shi Yumei said sourly.


    Wang Shi signalled at Shi Yumei to stop, with a look of warning, and criticized her before smiling generously at Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan is a married into our family, how can she intervene in her parent¡¯s home? Anyway, she is now the eldest daughter-inw of Shi Household so there¡¯s no way she can appear in front of strangers to make the arrangements. It is right that Shi Fengju settled it! Your brother can always be counted on, hehe, to not embarrass our family. How many silvers can be spent on throwing a spread in the vige? Maybe just one or two thousands!¡±


    ¡°That isn¡¯t a small sum!¡± Shi Yumei acted ignorant and asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t your big brother and big sister-inw there? This matter should have been settled by them! How could Shi Fengju take the spotlight. Aiya, your brother and sister-inw won¡¯t get angry over it, right?¡±


    Sang Wan immediately felt ashamed, but she couldn¡¯t put the eldest daughter of the Shi family in a difficult spot right in front of her mother-inw. As such, she could only smile and say, ¡°Although the final decisions were decided by my big brother and big sister-inw, Shi Fengju had lent a great amount of assistance and my family is immensely grateful! My second brother has said that he will being over soon. He has also mentioned that he would like to express his gratitude to Mother and Sir upfront!¡±


    ¡°Your brother and sister-inw are too polite!¡± Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°It is only right that rtives help one another; we are one family so there isn¡¯t a need for such courtesy! With a top escorted examinee to guide our Fenghua, I¡¯ll be extremely grateful if our Fenghua can get through the next provincial exams!¡±


    ¡°Certainly!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°We are one family after all, Mother-inw is being too courteous as well!¡±


    ¡°Ah? Hehe, yes, yes, let¡¯s stop here!¡± Wang Shi smiled and reminded Sang Wan to clean up the guest room and asked for the day that Sang Yufei would be heading to the capital. She also asked if there would be someone apanying him to the capital. Sang Wan patiently answered them all.


    Shi Yumei was feeling extremely unhappy at how Sang Wan was able to change the subject back so quickly in just two or three sentences. Listening to them talk about ¡°one family¡± made her feel like an outsider. With her heart full of resentment, she could not help but to raise her voice to switch the subject back. Smiling like broadly, she said, ¡°I think I still have to say this, but your brother and sister-inw should really thank Shi Fengju for his help! If not, the grand spread would not have been fixed so quickly! I do wonder what kind of dishes were prepared; what alcohol was served; and where were the chefs from? Ai, it¡¯s such a pity, that vige of yours, whatever it¡¯s called, is so far away from our Qingzhou. If it wasn¡¯t in such a remote ce, we could¡¯ve sent our Yuhei restaurant¡¯s head chefs down and whip out many delicious dishes! Isn¡¯t that more appropriate for our status! Hehe! Oh wait, vigers are all practical people; they love fish and meat, and may not have seen sea cucumber and abalone. Who knows, maybe the vigers wouldn¡¯t value such food and may deem the Sang family as stingy! Throwing a grand spread yet not serving any good dishes with fish and meat? Oh, let¡¯s just forget it!¡±

 Chapter 124

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 124</h4>


    ¡°You¡¯repletely right,¡± Sang Wan was feeling both bitter and angry. Her hands were held tightly together as she trembled slightly, but she smiled gently and said, ¡°Located in a remote area, the vigers in Sihe Vige are not particr and are contented with chicken, duck, and fish! Next time when Brother-inw Zhixian bes a top escorted examinee, Sister-inw can consider inviting the head chefs from Yuhe Restaurant to Mengxian to throw a grand spread! Sir will be delighted to help as well! I¡¯m also sure that Brother-inw Zhixian¡¯s rtives and friends are all cultured people who will definitely sing praises for all the sea cucumbers and abalones served!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s expression changed and she said coldly, ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of that! Are you looking down on us?¡±


    For the past few days, Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian had listened to the household praise the Sang household without an end. Even Second Uncle Shi was telling everyone about how Official Jin, who waspeting with him for the golden long-tailed rosefinch, let him win after knowing that the brother of the Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter-inw hade in first ce in the township exams. Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian¡¯s hearts were full of thorns since then. Added on with Gu Fangzhi¡¯s asional gossip, the resentment umted in Shi Yumei was so much, it was like a volcano that was about to erupt at any moment. When she saw Sang Wan, she felt that Sang Wan¡¯s face had pride and self-conceit written on it the more she looked at her. The anger within her just ballooned and all she¡¯d want to do was to humiliate woman who was the thorns in her heart... Who knew that Sang Wan would retaliate so well and make her lose her face instead?


    ¡°Sister!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed and she stood up immediately. She crossed her arms loosely in front of her body and lowered her head submissively while she stood, throwing a fearful nce at Wang Shi.


    ¡°Yumei, what¡¯s wrong with you!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s words sounded so genuine and gentle, and her expression was soft and calm. In the ears of Wang Shi, who was not directly implicated in this conflict, Sang Wan¡¯s words did not ring with another meaning. Shi Yumei was the only one who sensed the personal attack behind her words. Wang Shi creased her eyebrows and red at her daughter for throwing a tantrum. She chided, ¡°Why did you suddenly speak to your sister-inw in such a manner! Sang Wan is right, if your husband bes a top escorted examinee, I¡¯ll definitely have Fengju go to Mengxian to throw him a spread and earn you some face! Sang Wan, quickly sit down, sit down! Your big sister¡¯s personality is like that, don¡¯t take it to heart!¡±


    ¡°Why would I?¡± Sang Wan bowed to give her thanks and sat down again.


    Shi Yumei was flustered and scolded, ¡°Mother, am I still your daughter! Why would you talk to me in such a manner in front of the outsider! You are so biased!¡±


    ¡°Quiet! I think you are getting more and more unruly!¡± Wang Shi was upset too.


    ¡°You are just being in biased, forgetting your daughter after getting yourself a daughter-inw!¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Nanny Jiang signalled at Sang Wan with her eyes and Sang Wan hurriedly got up, ¡°Mother, there are still matters to handle in Ning Garden so I¡¯ll head back first! I wille again tomorrow to give Mother my greetings!¡±


    ¡°Please do, please do!¡± As Wang Shi bickered with her daughter, she really couldn¡¯t ask for more.


    Sang Wan bade farewell and hurriedly left.


    After the doors were closed, Shi Yumei¡¯s resentful voice, mixed with sobbing tears, trickled to her ears, ¡°Isn¡¯t it just a brother bing a top escorted examinee? Now, she¡¯s using that to ride above me! That kind of family, even when one of their family members got first rank in the township exam, they¡¯re still a filthy poor family who needs to rely on our family for money to throw a banquet in their vige. What a joke! Yet you and Fengju are still hoping to rely on them in the future!¡±


    Sang Wan bit her lips and held back the tears that were already in her eyes. She quickly blinked away her tears and took in a few deep breaths.


    ¡°All of you, please leave! I wish to have some time alone!¡± After returning to Ning Garden, Sang Wan chased everyone out, including Liu Ya.


    Alone inside the chamber, her tears filled with humiliation finally gushed out.


    She was properly married into this household with all the necessary ceremonials done to be the eldest daughter-inw in the family. But right now, she had to swallow down the tantrum of a married daughter who returned to the Shi Household even after getting married. There was no one whom she couldin to to vent the in humiliation she had suffered just now.


    She wished she could return all the silvers back to Shi Fengju and she wished the Sang household would never have to receive help from the Shi household anymore. But, she could not possibly make that happen! Where could she get that much money?


    Sang Wan cried for a long while before finally calming down. She wiped her tears and let out a long sigh. Luckily, big brother, big sister-inw, and second brother did not know about this. They would surely feel bad if they knew! She, alone, was enough.


    When Shi Fengju returned, Sang Wan was still in a daze in the chamber. He saw how all the servants¡¯ expressions were a little off and was perturbed. Liu Ya exined softly and Shi Fengju finally understood. He sighed softly and walked in.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡±


    Sang Wan raised her head. Seeing it was him, she quickly stood up and gave a reluctant smile, ¡°You¡¯re back!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju held her hands and said softly, ¡°Don¡¯t put my sister¡¯s words to heart, you know I don¡¯t think of it that way at all!¡±


    Everything would have been fine if he had not mentioned that again. When he spoke about it, Sang Wan felt bitter again. She took her hands away and lowered her head, ¡°Actually, she was right, we shouldn¡¯t have spent your family¡¯s money!¡±


    ¡°You are wrong!¡± Shi Fengju grabbed her shoulders and smiled, ¡°What¡¯s with your family and my family? You are now our family¡¯s daughter-inw! People have to call you Ma¡¯am when you¡¯re visiting! Don¡¯t think about this anymore, alright?¡±


    Sang Wan remained quiet.


    ¡°You just treat her words as gibberish and ignore her, ¡± Shi Fengju continued to say softly, ¡°Can you do it for me?¡±


    ¡°For your face, I¡¯ve to continue suffering under those kinds of words?¡± Sang Wan¡¯s lips curled down. ¡°If I am the Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter-inw, then how can she still say all that to me?¡±


    Shi Fengju felt a bout of headache and he said in frustration, ¡°I don¡¯t know why my sister acts like this too! She wasn¡¯t like this in the past! I will find and speak with her. Sang Wan, don¡¯t be angry over this anymore, alright? It¡¯s bad for your body if you continue to stay mad.¡±


    Sang Wan thought to herself: you don¡¯t know what is wrong with her, but I do. If not for Gu Fangzhi inciting things from behind, she would not have been so mean. But there¡¯s no way I can tell you this, because even if I did, would you believe me?


    ¡°I think you don¡¯t have to!¡± Sang Wan said without any expression. ¡°If you went to find her, she may not treat you differently, but she will me it on me forining to you and hate me even more!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure that doesn¡¯t happen! Just trust me this time, okay?¡± Shi Fengju saw how delicate and hurt she was and felt a need to protect her, coaxing her repeatedly. Sang Wan saw the way he treated her and only relented after a sigh.


    At the same time, her heartined: so what if you spoke to her? As long as Gu Fangzhi remains, this will never end! But am I able to criticise her?


    ¡°Are you hungry? I¡¯ll ask the servants to prepare dinner!¡± Sang Wan sighed softly.


    ¡°You should go and wash up first, just look at you, your eyes are all swollen!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s finger touched her eyes gently. Sang Wan instinctively wanted to avoid the cold sensation from his finger, but before she could do that, his finger had already left her eyes.


    ¡°Alright! Then you just sit here and rest for awhile!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said.


    Outside, a young servant suddenly mentioned that the maidservant from Peony Garden, Lan Xiang, had requested for an audience with Shi Fengju. Shi Fengju instinctively thought that Gu Fangzhi had once again sent her to invite him over. He creased his eyebrows and said, ¡°Ask her what¡¯s the matter and have her return! Just tell her toe back again tomorrow if it¡¯s nothing urgent as we¡¯re about to have dinner!¡±


    Hong Ye went out to ask and came back with two rolls of paper, ¡°Lan Xiang said that these are the finances done by Miss Gu for the days Ma¡¯am wasn¡¯t around, as instructed by Mistress Shi. She wishes to pass these to Ma¡¯am for her to audit them.¡±


    Shi Fengju was stunned and felt a little bad. He nodded and said, ¡°Keep them, but don¡¯t forget to let Ma¡¯am know about this!¡±


    Hong Ye bowed and went to put the ount book back in the small study room. After Sang Wan had washed her face, the maidservants brought in the dinner and the two sat down to eat.


    Shi Fengju smiled at Sang Wan and said, ¡°We were in such a rush this time and forgot to prepare a gift for your second brother. What do you think will be a suitable gift?¡±


    You still want to give a gift? If your elder sister knows about this, she would definitely re at me and gobble me up!


    Sang Wan shook her head and said, ¡°You¡¯ve already lent us much help, my brothers and sister-inw are immensely grateful towards you, I think there¡¯s no need for it!¡±


    ¡°No, this isn¡¯t proper!¡± Shi fengju smiled and said, ¡°Those vige schrs and many others that were not rted to your family had already given their gifts. If the inws don¡¯t prepare anything, then we will be criticised! I have already ordered the servant to prepare a list, you can help me to check the list of items!¡±


    Sang Wan inwardly rolled her eyes. You¡¯ve already prepared it, then what¡¯s the point of asking me? Outwardly, she nodded and agreed.


    Sang Wan thought that he would show the list to her privately, but on the next day, Shi Fengju apanied her to give their greetings to Wang Shi and gave the list to Wang Shi in front of everyone. He smiled and said, ¡°Mother, this is the list of gifts I have prepared for Brother-inw Sang, do you think this is appropriate?¡±


    After Shi Fengju spoke, those at the side, including Shi Yumei, Gu Fangzi, and Shi Lian, all seemed to have taken notice.


    Wang Shi smiled and nodded, ¡°I was just about to ask you about it, but you mentioned it first! My son is indeed capable!¡± She asked Xiu Chun to read out the list.


    Xiu Chun took the list and read from the top to bottom. Other than gold and silver, there were porcin jade burners, artworks, folding screens, silk, tea set and tea leaves. There were almost two to three hundred items in total.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s expression darkened. Gu Fangzhi maintained a straight face, but she was well aware of the turmoil within her. Sang Wan grew uneasy as well as she did not know what Shi Fengju was nning to do.


    ¡°I say, Fengju, I think you should just move all our property and belongings to the Sang family,¡± Shi Yumei could no longer maintain her calm and cut Xiu Chun off. ¡°You¡¯ve already spent a huge sum of money and lent manpower to help them hold a spread in their vige, is that not enough? Why are you still spending so much more! Fengju, the money in our house do not just fall from the sky! I am really perturbed at why you¡¯re acting so absurdly now when you¡¯ve always known how to act appropriately in the past. Is there a particr someone who has been secretly influencing you? Fengju, it is not that I want to say this as your sister, but think for yourself as well!¡±


    ¡°Big sister,¡± Sang Wan got up and said, ¡°Fengju did tell me about his n to prepare a gift, but he came up with the whole list by himself. I had only found out about this now!¡±


    ¡°So what? If not for you, my brother would never have acted so outrageously!¡± Shi Yumeiughed coldly. ¡°Sister-inw, don¡¯t forget that you are now our Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw and no longer your Sang family¡¯s daughter. Don¡¯t always favor your parent¡¯s family! If they can be relied on, then so be it. But don¡¯t think about taking what isn¡¯t yours and sacrificing our family¡¯s interests over your parent¡¯s family!¡±


    If what you said is the case, then for you who now belongs to the Ren household, you keep saying our Shi Household; what rights do you have to speak here? Sang Wan thought to herself.

 Chapter 125

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 125</h4>


    Although Sang Wan was feeling upset, she knew those words could not be said as it would only embarrass Shi Fengju and her mother-inw.


    Meanwhile, Gu Fangzi was secretly gloating when Sang Wan talked back to Shi Yumei. She could not wait for arger fight between them. However, she was disappointed when she saw how Sang Wan had no intentions of continuing the squabble after just talking back once.


    ¡°Big sister, what are you saying?¡± Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°All the gentlemen, officials, and neighbours have given expensive gifts to congratte brother-inw Sang, how can their inws be stingy on this?¡± He also casually brought up the size of fertilend, big houses, and the amount of gold and silver that were given as gifts. Adding on, he said, ¡°Anyway, you¡¯ve wrongly used Sang Wan. I settled all these with the management servants and she knew nothing about this at all!¡±


    ¡°Yumei, you better sit down prudently now! Don¡¯t you dare talk excessively anymore!¡± Wang Shi frowned at her and quickly nodded at Shi Fengju, ¡°Fengju is right! Our Shi Family is known to be the richest in Qingzhou. If our gift is too shabby, what will the people say about us! What¡¯s more, Sang Wan is our eldest daughter-inw in the family, which makes it even more important that our gifts are good! Fengju, you will make the arrangements with the management servants! Sang Wan, what do you think?¡±


    Wang Shi quickly ordered Xiu Chun to bring the list for Sang Wan¡¯s perusal.


    Shi Yumei was suddenly out of words. Yes, Sang Wan was the eldest daughter-inw of Shi Household. Her family was the Shi family¡¯s inws. What did this have got to do with her if they were to arrange expensive gifts? What say did she have here?


    At the thought of how she now belonged to the Ren family even though her surname remained as ¡®Shi¡¯, she felt a little dejected.


    ¡°Sir¡¯s decision is good! There¡¯s no way I¡¯d have a clue about this!¡± Sang Wan smiled and hurriedly nced over the list before putting it down.


    ¡°Mother, then I¡¯ll have the servants start handling this!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and took the list back. He smiled towards Shi Yumei and said, ¡°Big sister, when Brother-inw Ren bes a top escorted examinee too in the next exams, I will surely prepare the exact same expensive gifts to congratte him! I will definitely not throw your face!¡±


    Shi Yumei felt slightly better after hearing Shi Fengju¡¯s words, but she went on to grumble, ¡°Why the same? Are you so reluctant to prepare a bigger one for me?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed out loud, and said, ¡°Big sister, I can¡¯t be biased. If not, Sang Wan will surelyin that I¡¯m being unfair!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Yumei stomped her feet angrily, and she gave an elusive smile, ¡°What? Are you so afraid of your wife? You¡¯re afraid of herining but not my frustration?¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head but didn¡¯t answer her. He smiled to Wang Shi and said instead, ¡°Mother, look at big sister, why does she seemed to have grown backwards; saying all these childish words! I think, Mother, you might have spoilt her too much. You have to teach her some etiquette!¡± Not waiting for Wang Shi or Shi Yumei to reply, he took the list and ran off yfully.


    ¡°That rascal, are you my younger brother or my older brother!¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that she stomped her feet. She turned towards Wang Shi and said, ¡°Mother! Listen to what he said!¡±


    Wang Shi had already been tickled by her son¡¯s words and sheughed uncontrobly. She held Shi Yumei¡¯s hands and patted her, ¡°Alright, alright! I think Fengju is right. You have to reflect on yourself and learn some etiquette! You, you just have to care about taking care of your husband, both in his studies and his well-being, and apany me to chat once in a while. Anything else, you don¡¯t have to worry about it! I¡¯m old but not foolish and neither is Fengju a foolish man!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s heart sank a little. She lowered her voice and said, ¡°I understand, Mother... ¡±


    So what if she was feeling indignant? She belonged to the Ren family! Even if Sang Wan emptied the entire Shi household and moved all the assets to Sang household, as long as Fengju is happy, even their Mother would not be able to do anything about it, let alone someone like her. And because of that, her heart felt a little ufortable!


    On the other hand, Sang Wan was feeling secretly grateful. Just yesterday, Shi Yumei was being sarcastic about the amount of money the Shi family had spent on the Sang family, but today, Shi Fengju had taken out this costly list of gifts for everyone else to see. Shi Yumei wouldn¡¯t be able to say anything behind her back after this, even if she wanted to!


    ¡°Hmph! So you understand? If you understand, then that¡¯s good!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s expression changed, and she asked with a tone of disgust, ¡°Is that Cui Bao behaving obediently?¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Shi Yumei was stunned momentarily, but she quickly smiled and said, ¡°Her? She¡¯s quite all right, she greets me everyday and is obedient. She also doesn¡¯t give me any trouble! Normally, she will be serving in the study room and apany me asionally to ease my boredom!¡±


    ¡°You are just too gullible! You really believe the few good words other people say so easily!¡± Wang Shi gruntled, ¡°Just the day before yesterday, why did I see her in the flower garden wearing a robe made with the Xiang Yun silk that I gave you?


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei said nonchntly before saying with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s just a piece of clothing! I have gotten quite a few clothes done for myself and that silk would have been a waste if I just kept it, so I just gave it to her! Anyway, I¡¯m sure there¡¯ll be better quality silk next year!¡±


    ¡°You! Really!¡± Wang Shi sighed and could not do anything about it.


    Seeing how her mother-inw was discussing about something private, Sang Wan quickly excused herself; Shi Lian took the opportunity to leave as well. And so, the both of them left together.


    Shi Yumei watched as they left. Afraid that her mother would continue nagging at her non-stop, she quickly excused herself as well and gave a signal to Gu Fangzi before pulling her along.


    ¡°Mother, I¡¯m going to send cousin back! I wille back to apany you in the afternoon!¡±


    ¡°This child, sigh!¡± Wang Shi could not stop her and could only sigh while speaking to Nanny Jiang, ¡°Tell me, why is she so foolish. She has got no opinions of her own at all! That Cui Bao seems so unsettling, but she has already given all her trust to that vile thing!¡±


    While Wang Shi could criticise her own daughter, how could Nanny Jiang agree? She just smiled and said, ¡°Maybe Mistress is fretting too much. Jiao Garden is still within our household; so long as she remains obedient and no bad rumors are spread about, I think it¡¯ll be fine! Mistress doesn¡¯t have to worry because no one will dare to bully the eldest daughter of the Shi family!¡±


    ¡°Heng, it¡¯s only for the time being!¡± Wang Shiughed coldly, ¡°Really! Just wait and see! If she dares to put on any show here, I will immediately sell her on the next day! Then only Heavens will know what happens after that! The Xiang Yun silk is such an exquisite material, does she really think it is fitting for a concubine to wear something made of such material? If she knows her ce, she would have refused it. And how dare she wear it out!¡±


    ¡°Our Shi family¡¯s eldest daughter is a properly married wife. Even if that woman is a vixen, she will not be able to overthrow her position! Anyway, who even has the guts to go against the Shi Family! I think Mistress is really thinking too much!¡± Nanny Jiang smiled and consoled her.


    Wang Shi felt a little morefortable as she nodded with a smiled, ¡°Your words make sense! As long as we¡¯re still here in this family, nobody will dare to touch my dear daughter!¡±


    When Sang Wan returned to Ning Garden, a servant sent by the management team informed her that they would be heading to Sihe Vige in two days and asked if she had any items or messages she would like to send back.


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ve only just returned from home. For now, I have none to send back, please go along with the arrangements made by Sir. ¡±


    The servant then left without a word.


    Thinking about her promise to cook a meal for Shi Fengju tonight, Sang Wan went and discuss with Nanny Li, before having the servants prepare the ingredients so that she could begin in the afternoon.


    Nanny Li was naturally happy that Sang Wan was taking the initiative to serve Shi Fengju. She smiled before saying, ¡°Ma¡¯am, it¡¯s good that you have these intentions at heart, but the kitchen is really oily and dirty. It isn¡¯t a ce for you to be in! If oil were to stter on your hands or face, it¡¯ll be bad!¡±


    ¡°Nanny, Sir has done so much for my family, I should do something in return! Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯ll be fine!¡± Sang Wan insisted and smiled.


    ¡°Eh, then you be careful!¡± Nanny Li smiled again and said, ¡°Ma¡¯am you are really virtuous! Sir really is fortunate to have married you!¡±


    ¡°Nanny, don¡¯tpliment me anymore!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s smile turned a little unnatural.


    In the afternoon, Sang Wan changed and went down to the kitchen when it was about time. Under the instructions of the chef, she made six dishes and one soup; a bowl of steamed rouge goose, a te of fried omelette with chicken slices, boiled young bamboo shoots with arge freshwater fish, pan-fried rib, a te of lightly stir-fried green vegetables with beancurd, a te of dried beancurd skin cooked with sesame oil and arge bowl of piping hot duck stew with longans and ham.


    In the afternoon, the stewing was done above arge fire to let the vor of the ingredients mix into the stew before lowering the fire to cook through the entire afternoon. When it was time for dinner to be served, the duck meat was already soft and the stew was thick with vor. The dishes were served when hot and the aroma went straight into the nostrils of those around. Matched with golden-brown ribs and fried omelette with chicken slices that looked milky white, as well as the rouge duck that looked both greasy and shiny, the aroma from the dishes and the presentation made the dinner extremely appetising.


    ¡°You did these all by yourself?¡± Shi Fengju asked with disbelief when he returned and saw the spread.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Other than the washing and cutting of vegetables, all the cooking was done by me alone. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Nanny Li!¡±


    ¡°Sir, Ma¡¯am especially made these dishes for you. She wouldn¡¯t let us help at all!¡± Nanny Liughed at the side.


    ¡°Quickly, give it a taste! Tell me if it tastes the same as what you normally eat!¡± Sang Wan smiled and pulled him to have a seat.


    ¡°Since this is made especially by you, I¡¯m sure it will taste better than what I usually have!¡± Shi Fengju smiled but was feeling a little disappointed, ¡°This would be so much better with a jug of good wine!¡±


    ¡°Sir, here¡¯s the wine!¡± Nanny Li took the jug from a maidservant, ¡°Ma¡¯am has allowed this jug of Jade Spring Pear wine, but Sir, you mustn¡¯t have too much! Drinking too much won¡¯t be good for your body!¡±


    Nanny Li put the jug of wine down and signalled to all the maidservants to leave the room, giving space to the couple.


    Shi Fengju felt a strange sense of disappointment as he eyed the jug. What a pity, it would¡¯ve been better without the wine. Then, I can bother her again to make me another meal! Still, it must have been a huge difficulty for her toe up with all this for me.


    Sang Wan scooped half a bowl of the duck stew and said, ¡°Drink a little of this stew to warm your gut. This stew has been stewing for the whole afternoon, just right to provide you with the right nutritions in autumn and winter.¡±


    Shi Fengju took it and drank a few mouthful. Heplimented it then said, ¡°Don¡¯t just serve me, you should eat too.¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and poured some wine for him, then sat down before saying, ¡°This wine is warm enough, have a sip of this too.¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and held the cup. But just when he was about to drink it, he smiled and said, ¡°There¡¯s no meaning to drink by myself. Sang Wan, why don¡¯t you drink with me too!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed a little, she smiled unnaturally, ¡°I , I don¡¯t drink.¡± She had never drunk alcohol before. The marriage wine was supposed to be her first taste of alcohol, but she didn¡¯t drinking it in the end.

 Chapter 126

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 126</h4>


    ¡°This wine is sweet and mild, it doesn¡¯t cause intoxication or give a feeling of difort when drinking. Anyway, it¡¯s fine to get drunk in your home, so just treat it as keeping mepany?¡± Shi Fengju did not allow her to say no and filled another empty cup before passing it to her. He said jokingly, ¡°Look, nanny has even prepared a wine cup for you, you mustn¡¯t refuse her kind intentions.¡±


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll just have a cup.¡± Sang Wan took the cup and smiled at him, ¡°Sir, thank you for helping me today, as well as the past few days. Thank you for all the help you¡¯ve given my family!¡±


    She¡¯s still so distant and courteous to me, Shi Fengju sighed to himself. Still, she must have finally seen the good side of him, right? After all, she remained silent and did not chase him awayst night when he mustered enough courage to bring his nket up the bedst night. Surely, she must have some feelings for him. Shi Fengju suddenly became more hopeful. He raised his cup and said with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, it is only right that I did those!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled gently and drank the cup of wine. It tasted sweet at first when it entered her mouth, but as it flowed down her throat, it left behind a feeling of spiciness. She creased her brows and lowered her eyes. There, a hot bowl of duck soup was right in front of her eyes. Shi Fengju gave a lowugh and said, ¡°Looks like you really can¡¯t drink.¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly drank a few mouthful of soup to quench the spiciness in her mouth. She smiled and said, ¡°Of course. Sir should stop making things difficult for me! And you should drink less too!¡± Nothing goodes from drinking. The two times when Shi Fengju went out to drink did not end well and she couldn¡¯t even me him. She did not want the same thing to repeat again.


    Yet, she was the one who arranged for the wine today, wasn¡¯t it ironic?


    ¡°Alright, if you don¡¯t want to, then we¡¯ll stop.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and used his chopsticks to pick up a piece of the fish for her, ¡°Let¡¯s eat while it¡¯s hot!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sang Wan saw how he acted all natural as if he had felt nothing strange and agreed foolishly as she lowered her head to eat.


    Shi Fengju gently gazed at her, his lips curling unwittingly. When will his lovely wife understand his intentions? Well, who had asked him to be so bothered and too afraid of rejection?


    ¡°Oh right, the gift for my brother could have been sent by Zhan Huan or any of the normal servants, why trouble Head Servant Yu to send it?¡± Sang Wan suddenly smiled and asked.


    Head Servant Yu was second in rank among all the other head servants. His position was only below Head Servant Jin. As he was responsible for all the finances there were innumerable things for him to settle everyday.


    ¡°It would be more convenient for him to go,¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to feel bothered. There are many antiques and artworks amongst the gifts given by the gentlemen and officials. Your two brothers must first know their value before making their return gifts. Head Servant Yu is an expert in this and will be of help to your brothers.¡±


    Sang Wan felt touched and said, ¡°No wonder your gift list epasses so many things. Is it all, is it all especially to help my brother with the return gifts?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed happily and said, ¡°My wife is so smart! Oh, will you me me for being nosy?¡±


    Sang Wan was at a loss for words. This person, why was he treating her so nicely?


    ¡°I, why would I me you for thinking so thoroughly? I¡¯m sure my brothers and sister-inw will be grateful to you.¡±


    Shi Fengju was feeling contented after hearing these words as his efforts did not go down the drain. Wearing a thicker skin this time around, he chuckled, ¡°Hehe, then how do you n to repay me?¡±


    Sang Wan was stunned momentarily before sheughed, ¡°Sir is indeed a shrewd businessman!¡±


    ¡°I shall treat your words as apliment!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    ¡°If Sir doesn¡¯t mind, I could cook for you frequently, how does that sound?¡±


    Shi Fengju was ted, but only for a moment. After giving it some thought, he shook his head at her suggestion, ¡°I think it¡¯ll be better if you don¡¯t. The kitchen is not a ce you should be in; what if you get badly injured by the oil? How about this, since you¡¯re usually quite free, how about helping me a little with the daily finances, are you willing?¡±


    Help him a little? He wants her to help him with the finances? The business ounts? Isn¡¯t that ¡ª¡ª


    Although Sang Wan had her doubts and was hesitant as she knew she should not agree, but what she said ended up being different from what she thought. She could not help but nod with a smile, ¡°Sir, just let me know whenever you need my help with it.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll treat it as as a yes,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes brightened and he was as happy as if he had eaten ginseng. When he thought about the additional time they could spend together, Shi Fengju¡¯s spirits rose and he was ted.


    ¡°Okay! It¡¯s a yes!¡± Sang Wan smiled sweetly.


    It was mid-October in just a blink of an eye. On one fine afternoon, Sang Yufei brought Shi Ming to the Shi household. He received a warm wee from everyone in the household upon his arrival.


    Shi Fenghua had taken leave from the academy to return home. When the teacher heard that the top escorted examinee for this term would be paying the Shi household a visit, he excused Shi Fenghua without hesitation and even nagged at him to learn and exchange knowledge with the top escorted examinee as it would be extremely beneficial for his learning.


    All his schoolmates in his school were all envious when they found out and they requested him to invite the top escorted examinee for a gathering to exchange knowledge. Shi Fenghua could not refuse and relented to their request. Everyone was overjoyed and pressured him to fix a day. Without a choice, Shi Fenghua did so.


    All was well in Shi¡¯s household, and the rtionship between Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei was well. Ren Zhixian remained the only unharmonious one


    When Sang Yufei first arrived with Shi Ming, Ren Zhixian recognised him in an instant and overreacted, ¡°Eh, isn¡¯t this Shi Ming? Since when are you following Brother Sang?¡±


    ¡°Sir!¡± Shi Ming gave his greetings courteously but the expression on his face was prideful as he confidently stood beside Sang Yufei. Finally, the resentment he had was vented. You were dissatisfied with me, right? If even the top escorted examinee is satisfied with me, then this shows that you have a really bad eye for people!


    ¡°Second Brother Sang wascking someone to assist to him. Because Shi Ming is very suitable, I offered Shi Ming to him. Right now, he is Second Brother Sang¡¯s servant!¡± Shi Fengju smiled slightly.


    ¡°Shi Ming is extremely capable, I have not properly thanked my brother-inw!¡± Sang Yufei cupped his fists and smiled.


    ¡°Second Brother Sang is too polite!¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s face was full of contempt and heughedcently, ¡°Hehe, I think Brother Sang is better at cultivating people! Thisd was so clumsy when he was serving mest time and I had to return him to Fengju! Who¡¯d have thought Fengju would give him to you too, and you guys actually get along quite well. Hehe, I think there needs to be some form of affinity to be the owner and the servant.


    Shi Yumei was secretly gloating when she heard her husband. However, she purposely red at him, ¡°Aiya, you shouldn¡¯t be saying such words in front of our young master Sang! It¡¯s almost as if you¡¯re saying that you gave others what you didn¡¯t want! He is a top escorted examinee so you shouldn¡¯t throw his face!¡±


    ¡°Lady Ren is funny. But it may be because a person¡¯s opinion differs from another, I really think Shi Ming is good! After all, I¡¯m sure I can trust my brother-inw¡¯s judgement!¡± Sang Yufei smiled and nodded at Shi Fengju. It also implied that Ren Zhixian¡¯s judgement was not that great.


    Although Sang Yufei was perturbed as to why this couple was giving him a hard time, he was not a foolish man and was clear about how Shi Fengju treated him.


    Shi Fengju was also secretly infuriated. When his eyes met with Sang Yufei, he knew that Sang Yufei did not overthink it and he became less worried. He smiled and said, ¡°It was all because I did not consider that thoroughly. If Brother-inw Zhixian had told me that what he wanted was a beauty to apany him, I would not have sent Shi Ming over! It was all my fault! Anyways, Second Brother Sang was on the road for half the day, why don¡¯t you return to the guest room to rest first!¡±


    Wang Shi nodded and smiled before adding that they were to have dinner together at night when Shi Fenghua returned.


    Sang Yufei bowed politely and agreed. When he left, Shi Fengju and Sang Wan both walked him back to the guest room.


    ¡°Second Brother Sang, you can rest in our household without worry and don¡¯t be embarrassed to make any requests. You can tell either me or your sister, it¡¯s the same. If it isn¡¯t convenient, you can have Shi Ming ask in your stead,¡± Shi Fengju smiled, some words were not meant to be too clear.


    ¡°I understand. Brother-inw Fengju, you can go back to what you¡¯re busy with without worries!¡± Sang Yufei gave a knowing smile.


    After sending Sang Yufei back to the guest room, Shi Fengju and Sang Wan returned to Ning Garden, ¡°Sang Wan, Brother-inw Zhixian¡¯s character is like that, can you please tell your second brother privately to not take it to heart. Sang Wan, you won¡¯t be angry with me right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Every family has their difficulties. My Sang family¡¯s situation isn¡¯t any better than here. I¡¯m sure my second brother isn¡¯t foolish.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true!¡± Shi Fengju touched his head, andughed, ¡°I almost forgot !¡± Both of them looked at each other andughed.


    At night when Shi Fenghua returned, there was another round of celebration and warm wee.


    From then on, Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei spent most of their days in Shi Fenghua¡¯s study room. They would have someone tidy up some attic or a small pavilion and would exchange knowledge or find an answer to some difficult questions. asionally, they would explore past year questions, chatting mindlessly and draw up poems to appreciate each other¡¯s work. The two got along well and it was regretful that they did not cross paths earlier.


    Only Ren Zhixian was being a gooseberry and stuck around everyday. He was ignorant about almost everything, but acted as if he knew it all as he spoke without stopping. Whenever he received an opportunity to speak, he would go on unceasingly with lots of gibberish. When he was finished, there was always silence because Shi Fenghua and Sang Yufei both did not know what to say in reply.


    At first, Ren Zhixian did not think anything was amiss. In fact, he revelled at the thought that both of them were out of words because of his outstanding knowledge. But slowly, he became dissatisfied because the two had neither praised him nor given a look of admiration or genuine respect. This made him feel very unsettled when he realized that the duo was ignoring him. Whether they were doing so intentionally or unintentionally, Ren Zhixian could no longer sit still.


    His ego had received a huge blow and he intentionally did not find them today. Instead, he had Cui Bao went to tell them that he had gotten a cold and could not head out. He initially thought that the two woulde to visit him personally and then he would hint at them a little to let them know that they should not disregard him. Who knew that Cui Bao would bring back a message from them, ¡°Third Young Master Shi and Young Master Sang said that sir should take a good rest then.¡±


    That caught Ren Zhixian by surprise and he was infuriated. In his heart, he scolded them for being unappreciative and disrespectful!

 Chapter 127

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 127</h4>


    In the end, when Shi Fenghua invited Sang Yufei to his academy without informing Ren Zhixian, Ren Zhixian became infuriated and vented all his unhappiness onto Shi Yumei.


    Sh Yumei became angry too. She said venomously, ¡°How could they! The Sang siblings are just too much! They really are treating our Shi household as their own! Provoking us once wasn¡¯t enough for them and they do it again! Outrageous! I am going to teach her a lesson; does she really think she is so important!¡±


    Without any care for lunch, Shi Yumei rushed straight to Ning Garden with Cui Zhu.


    Sang Wan was drinking tea after having her lunch. When she heard that Sister-inw Yumei had arrived, she hurriedly got up to greet her.


    Without waiting for Sang Wan to leave her room, Shi Yumei barged in angrily. She pushed away the screen violently before pointing at Sang Wan, ¡°The fine Ma¡¯am of the Shi Household, wonderful, wonderful! Even me and my husband are being despised by you! Your Sang family sure have the guts to be arrogant and prideful in the territory of the Shi household. Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re too much? Are you going to chase us away next time? So what if your family got a top escorted examinee? What does it have with our Shi family? Our Shi family has no need for your little fame to add on to our reputation! What a joke!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister Yumei, what are you saying?¡± Sang Wan was a little flustered from the scolding which came without warning. But after a moment, Sang Wan felt a little furious as well, ¡°Big Sister Yumei, calm down first. What have I done again that made Big Sister Yumei so displeased?¡±


    ¡°Just your very presence is enough to make me unhappy!¡± Shi Yumei pointed at her and spat, ¡°Why don¡¯t you have look at yourself in the mirror! For someone from an insignificant family, is our Shi family something you can hold? What tricks did a vixen like you use to bewitch our Fengju! Your second brother isn¡¯t something good as well, bringing my third brother around everyday to learn the vices and not allowing him near his dear brother-inw! Pweh! You must think that my third brother is innocent and gullible and didn¡¯t want my husband to find out, right? Both of you siblings are nothing good!¡±


    Nanny Li and Zhide, along with all the maidservants hurriedly went to pull and stop Shi Yumei. Liu Ya was holding onto Sang Wan without a word. Sang Wan was entirely stunned as she finally realized the resentment Shi Yumei had towards her. It wasn¡¯t some simple rift between inws anymore.


    ¡°Big Sister Yumei, you need evidence to support your ims! Even though our Sang family isn¡¯t prosperous, we¡¯re definitely good people. My brothers and I were brought up by our parents to know and closely follow our morals. Big Sister, please don¡¯t speak so offensively. In any case, are you speaking about me, or my brother? If my marriage into the Shi family displeases you, please save yourself the trouble from telling me about it because it wasn¡¯t arranged by me; I wasn¡¯t the one who called for the matchmaker or arranged the marriage ceremony! If you¡¯re speaking about my second brother, I do not know what my second brother has done to make you so furious. As for my second brother apanying your third brother, I don¡¯t think that concerns you in any way!¡±


    ¡°How dare you! How dare you talk back to me and find excuses!¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that she rashly pounced on Sang Wan to vent her unhappiness.


    Li Nanny and Zhide was taken aback and desperately held her back, ¡°Please calm down! Please calm down! Calm down and only use words! ¡±


    ¡°Let go of me!¡± Shi Yumei was agitated and was struggling to remove herself from their grasp. She shouted, ¡°Sang Wan! You are indeed capable! Ordering the servants from this entire house to bully me! Great, great! If you have the guts then ask them to not let go of me, I look forward to seeing what Mother will say about this!¡±


    Speechless, Sang Wan became angry too, ¡°Big Sister Yumei, just what are you trying to tell me! And what¡¯s with all this fuss you¡¯re trying to make here? If you don¡¯t like me, that¡¯s your matter for I can¡¯t do anything about it. But you came over and made such a big ruckus, just what do you want! My second brother was invited over by Mother-inw and Fengju for a visit, I really don¡¯t understand how he offended you in any way!¡±


    Shi Yumei gave a deadly stare and forcefully shook off the grasp of Nanny Li and the rest. She sneered and said, ¡°You don¡¯t know? Hehe, you really are a natural in acting kind and innocent! I want to ask you instead, what has my husband done to offend you guys? Why is that rascal upying all of Fenghua¡¯s time and making him ignore his own brother-inw? What? Do you think that only intellectualse from your Sang household and that others are not worthy to be an intellectual? Just bing a top escorted examinee, he already has his tail high up in the sky and think that he can step on the whole world now?¡±


    Shi Yumei got angrier as she spoke; the old and new resentment all rushed up to her head, ¡°I especially despise the way you act! Hiding all the underhand methods under your sleeves; stop putting on an innocent act! If I don¡¯t teach you a lesson today, you might really continue to act like our Shi family are fools!¡±


    Shi Yumei raised her hand and sent it straight towards Sang Wan¡¯s face. Nanny Li and the rest gasped. Sang Wan eximed in shock while she ducked backwards. ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± Liu Ya shouted and went forward to shield her instinctively. ¡°Pa¡ª¡± the pnded squarely on Liu Ya¡¯s face.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡±


    Everyone cried out in shock and rushed to pull Shi Yumei back again.


    However, Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°What a loyal servant! Sang Wan, your tactics really are something. Not only do you masterfully manipte men, your servants aren¡¯t spared as well !¡± While she spoke, her body did not stop struggling. She vigorously pushed Liu Ya to the side and raised her hand again to hit Sang Wan.


    If she did not pull off this vixen¡¯s face today, then she isn¡¯t surnamed Shi!


    ¡°Big Sister! What are you doing!¡± Shi Fengju hurried over and caught sight of the scene when he arrived after receiving the news. He hastily rushed forward and grabbed Shi Yumei¡¯s arm, ¡°Big Sister, what¡¯s the matter here? Do you have to resort to violence?¡±


    ¡°What? Why don¡¯t you ask what this woman did instead of putting the me on me! Fengju, if you still want to regard me as your sister, then teach this woman a lesson for me today!¡± Shi Yumei took back her hand hatefully.


    ¡°Sir, just give me the separation document! Give me the separation document!¡± Tears gushed out of Sang Wan¡¯s eyes uncontrobly. She knew that regardless whether it was this life or her previous life, her life in the Shi household was destined to be tragic.


    At all times, she was living precariously and extremely careful with Gu Fangzi around. Now, life had be even more unbearable with Shi Yumei who she could not afford to offend at all.


    ¡°At least you have some sense!¡± Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°Separation document? You wish! Fengju, give her the divorce document! Divorce this unvirtuous woman! Isn¡¯t the person that you want to marry Gu Fangzi? Divorce her and you can marry Gu Fangzi! That way, you can live happily and have a better life than the one now!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju shouted, his face cold as ice. He stared at Shi Yumei sternly, ¡°What rubbish are you saying! Sang Wan is my wife and I won¡¯t divorce her!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart trembled, she bit her lips as her tears fell.


    ¡°You, how dare you shout at me?¡± Shi Yumei looked at Shi Fengju with disbelief, ¡°You have never spoken to me this way. Today, you shouted at me for this woman! Good, good, hehe, looks like I¡¯m the one in the wrong. You guys are a family, whereas I¡¯m an outsider, I deserve to be bullied! Why did I even try to seek justice here! I should just hide in my room, cry quietly and suck up to the people who will pity me with a bowl of rice!¡±


    Shi Yumei covered her face and ran out of the house, sobbing. Shi Fengju quickly instructed, ¡°Quickly, stop her!¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss!¡± All the servants came to their senses only a momentter and they rushed out shouting, but they were toote


    Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows. This sister of his was stepping out of line these days, she must have gone to Mother toin again.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju held her shoulders and said gently, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, I am so sorry, I let you down again! Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry!¡±


    Sang Wan pushed him away vigorously and wiped her tears, ¡°Sir, separation or divorce, you decide. What can I do as a woman? I can¡¯t stand being in this household anymore!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart ached. He stretched out his arm and pulled Sang Wan into his embrace, holding her closely without letting her go, ¡°I am not going to divorce or separate with you! Sang Wan, please don¡¯t raise this up again!¡±


    Sang Wan could not struggle out of his embrace, and she pinched his waist frantically without mercy. Shi Fengju clenched his teeth from the pain but hugged her even more tightly. How he wished he could embed her into his body. He spoke between his teeth, ¡°Sang Wan, you can be angry and hit me or scold me, but I won¡¯t ever let you leave!¡±


    Sang Wan let down her hands cidly, and she cried, ¡°Do you really enjoy seeing me getting bullied? One is your sister and the other is your cousin. What do you want me to do!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju sighed and said, ¡°Tell me, what exactly happened here. Sang Wan, I will help you to seek justice.¡±


    ¡°How many times can you help me?¡± Sang Wan said coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you are going to guard me everyday. If you do, I will end up in an even worse situation! You ask me what happened? You¡¯d better ask your sister instead! I don¡¯t know what rumours she heard, but she suddenly came over to make a big fuss!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju patted her back softly and consoled her, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re able to tell me that she heard some rumours. Doesn¡¯t that mean this is only a misunderstanding, please don¡¯t be angry. Okay? Sang Wan, be good. I promise to give you an answer. Be good, Sang Wan and don¡¯t be angry anymore, okay?¡±


    Shi Fengju consoled her gently, but she was feeling so angry. For a moment, her mind was in a turmoil and she did not know what to say or do, she was so frustrated that her tears would not stop gushing out.


    ¡°Sang Wan, let¡¯s go. Let¡¯s go to Mother¡¯s ce.¡± Shi Fengju gently let go of her. He touched her face and wiped away her tears before smiling, ¡°Okay, don¡¯t be down anymore. Let¡¯s go! I¡¯m very sure that sister went toin to Mother. We cannot let her spread false rumours and make wrong ims. Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Shi Fengju spoke and held her hand to bring her with him.


    Seeing how Sang Wan was hesitating, Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Sang Wan, do you want to stay put and let everyone misunderstand you?¡±


    Sang Wan was stunned: He was right. Disregarding everything else, she had to do herself justice; she must not be humiliated without any reason. If she doesn¡¯t go over now, the truth would be moulded into whatever Shi Yumei wished.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go! We have to be quick!¡± Shi Fengju saw how she seemed to be a little undecided and hurriedly pulled her along. Nanny Li, Zhide, and Liu Ya came along too.

 Chapter 128

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 128</h4>


    There, Shi Yumei was alreadyying in her mother¡¯s embrace as she cried intermittently and terribly. Wang Shi gently patted her back and coaxed her softly.


    Seeing Shi Fengju and Sang Wan, Wang Shi was unhappy and said, ¡°You¡¯re here, sit down!¡±


    Sang Wan felt that if not for her second brother, her easily influenced mother-inw, who doted on her daughter, would have taken her anger out on her.


    Shi Fengju pulled Sang Wan over and sat down, ignoring Shi Yumei¡¯s presencepletely.


    When Shi Yumei saw them, her crying became even more intense, and ¡°Mother!¡± and ¡°Help me!¡± was mixed in between her sobs.


    ¡°Alright, alright, stop crying! Your voice is hoarse from all the crying!¡± Wang Shi nced at her son who did not look too happy and her daughter-inw who was looking down. She patted her daughter¡¯s back and coaxed.


    ¡°Mother! I think that my husband and I should leave the Shi household! We are unwanted here and discriminated against! A married daughter is like spilled water; I was foolish to think that others would treat me as a Shi family member!¡± Shi Yumei sat up and said between her sobs.


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Wang Shi said unhappily, ¡°Our Shi family cannot even afford to take care of its eldest missy? What an utter joke! Yumei, you are never an outsider, so stop thinking too much! If you are bullied, I will stand up for you!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Tears fell from Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes again.


    ¡°Big Sister, Mother won¡¯t be the only one, I will do so too. You¡¯ll have to tell me what exactly happened today!¡± Shi Fengju sighed.


    Wang Shi was stumped, and she asked in disbelief, ¡°You don¡¯t know what happened?¡±


    ¡°Mother, ask sister for me. Has she ever told me about anything at all?¡±


    Shi Yumei was unhappy and said, ¡°What do you want me to say? If I do, will you really help me at all? Now that you have your wife, you won¡¯t stand up for your sister!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, if you really must say that, then I have nothing to say as well!¡± Shi Fengju shrugged, ¡°If Big Sister doesn¡¯t feel too happy staying here, then you may return to Mengxian! All the debts there have been settled and I can arrange for someone to help you find a house and buy some fertilends!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Yumei suddenly became speechless.


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju gently cut her off, ¡°Can I ask Big Sister, not talking about the past few years, have I mistreated Big Sister during your stay in this household?¡±


    ¡°... No, you, you treat us very well.¡± Shi Yumei said softly.


    ¡°For us siblings to reach such a state, do you think I pass as a younger brother?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying!¡± Shi Yumei became anxious, ¡°I never said you aren¡¯t good!¡±


    ¡°If so, then why did Big Sister not tell me at all when you are mistreated? Why are you so sure that I won¡¯t take your side?¡±


    Wang Shi was taken in by Shi Fengju¡¯s words and thought of all the good that Shi Fengju had done. She nodded, ¡°Yes Yumei, Fengju isn¡¯t wrong. You¡¯re both my children; if there¡¯s anything, just speak your mind! How could you hurt your brother¡¯s feelings!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, tell me! I want to hear it now!¡± Shi Fengju stared at her and spoke solemnly.


    Shi Yumei could only swallow her criticism for Sang Wan, and said, ¡°Okay, I am waiting for you to stand up for me! My husband and Fenghua got along well, but that top scorer brother-inw of yours is creating a rift between them. He prevented Fenghua from having contact with my husband, and said that my husband was incapable, a degenerate who throws the face of intellectuals! You say, how could he, as an outsider, dare to say that? Other than being prideful of his title, there must be someone instigating from behind! Someone must despise us so much and wants to chase us away!¡±


    Shi Yumei red at Sang Wan hatefully.


    ¡°Big Sister, did you hear this with your own ears?¡±


    ¡°Hmph! If I had heard this with my own ears, I would have already given him a p. Why would I wait until now? What, are you doubting me!¡± Shi Yumei widened her eyes.


    ¡°Big Sister, if you did not hear it yourself, can I know who told you about this? Big Sister, tell me and I will call that person over to get a clear understanding of things.¡±


    Of course, Shi Yumei would not expose her own husband. Since Shi Fengju had already phrased it that way, she simply did not dare to point her finger at someone else as well and could only mumble, ¡°Regardless, this is all I know. Since I¡¯ve already told you, are you going to stand up for me or not!¡±


    Shi Fengju remained quiet and nced towards Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi sighed softly as she creased her brows, ¡°Yumei, you are messing around! You, what do you mean by this!¡± Even if Wang Shi was foolish, she was able to realize that her own daughter was only listening to peoples¡¯ hearsay.


    ¡°Mother! You don¡¯t believe me too? ¡± Shi Yumei became anxious again.


    ¡°Big Sister, these words, don¡¯t tell me it was Brother-inw Zhixian who told you these?¡± Shi Fengju said all of a sudden.


    ¡°No, no! He is an honest person, why would he say something like that! Even if he was bullied, he would swallow all his resentment!¡± Shi Yumei denied decisively.


    ¡°Now this is simple,¡± Shi Fengju said lightly, ¡°I do not want anyone to feel used or unhappy. In order to settle this, I think it¡¯s better to invite Brother-inw Zhixian over now! Or I could have all the servants from Jiao Garden interrogated; the truth will be out eventually.¡±


    Shi Yumei was agitated by his words: there was nothing to hide! ¡°No need, you¡¯re right. Your brother-inw grumbled a few sentences to me, but he was only grumbling and told me to not take it to heart! I was the one who couldn¡¯t swallow this resentment! I¡¯m not used to seeing others acting so arrogant!¡±


    ¡°From how I see it, Second Young Master Sang is not that kind of person and Fenghua keepsplimenting him! There must be a misunderstanding?¡± Wang Shi hurriedly said.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei was so exasperated that she was out of words.


    ¡°I think so too,¡± Shi Fengju said, ¡°Big Sister, the age difference between Brother-inw Zhixian to third brother and Brother-inw Sang is actually quiterge, it¡¯s normal if they don¡¯t get along well. This isn¡¯t such a big deal, so why are you so angry about it? Brother-inw Sang is a guest, who will only be here for a few days, there¡¯s no way he would want to incite disharmony!¡±


    Shi Yumei said angrily, ¡°You really trust him so much! You¡¯d rather trust an outsider and not trust me! Even if you know a person, you¡¯ll never know their true colors, who knows what he¡¯s nning!


    ¡°Keep quiet!¡± Wang Shi said loudly, ¡°Yumei, you are behaving more and more unreasonable now!¡±


    ¡°Mother, let¡¯s wait until third brother returns and then ask him properly to see if Brother-inw Sang had said anything damaging to third brother. Big Sister, surely you will believe the words of third brother?¡±


    ¡°Fine!¡± Shi Yumei said crisply, ¡°You¡¯re right, then let¡¯s wait until third brother returns to ask him!¡±


    ¡°If this matter is true, then I¡¯ll settle it and give Big Sister a satisfactory answer. But what will Big Sister do in return if you¡¯ve falsely used them?¡± Shi Fengju questioned.


    Shi Yumei sniggered, ¡°If I did, then I will give my apology! Are you happy now?¡±


    ¡°Brother-inw Sang is a guest, and I think we should just ask third brother privately to keep it from him. If you did use them, then you¡¯ll have to apologise to Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Shi Yumei widened her eyes in disbelief as she pointed at Sang Wan, ¡°You want me to apologize to her?¡±


    ¡°Is that not possible?¡± Shi Fengju said expressionlessly. ¡°Big sister, Sang Wan is your sister-inw and the eldest daughter-inw in our family. Your unreasonable actions today of rushing into Ning Garden, shouting, screaming, and hitting someone, how do you expect Sang Wan to keep the servants in control? Where is her authority? If word spreads, how will people see our Shi family? How will I be seen as? My own sister and wife are involved in such an unsightly squabble, won¡¯t this be a joke?¡±


    Wang Shi was taken aback, ¡°Yumei wasn¡¯t acting reasonably in Ning Garden? She scolded, shouted, and even hit someone?¡±


    Shi Fengju nudged Sang Wan subtly. Even though Sang Wan was still resentful, she had to get up and say, ¡°Mother, that has already passed so let¡¯s not talk about it anymore!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your false kindness!¡± Shi Yumei said without appreciation.


    ¡°Keep your mouth shut!¡± Wang Shi was feeling angry and anxious as she reprimanded, ¡°And I even thought of standing up for you. It seems you were really falsely using Sang Wan! If you continue to fool around like this, I will not bother with you next time!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, Sang Wan is my wife. Even if she offended you, you ought to let me know. You humiliated her like this, have you thought of my dignity as well!¡± Shi Fengju was also dismayed.


    ¡°Fengju is right!¡± Wang Shi was so angry that she did not know what to say. Seeing how Sang Wan was still standing, she waved at her toe forward andforted her while holding her hand, ¡± Sang Wan, you are a good girl so don¡¯t be upset anymore! Mother knows you are generous, so don¡¯t be too particr with your sister¡¯s actions.¡±


    Although Wang Shi was infuriated, she still had to protect her daughter¡¯s dignity. Even though she was demanding her daughter to apologise to her daughter-inw, her daughter was still living under her roof and may end up being ill-treated by the servants! In the end, she cared more for her daughter.


    ¡°Mother! Sang Wan is alright...¡± Sang Wan smiled reluctantly as she was slightly disheartened. Blood is thicker than water, even if she doesn¡¯t relent, what can she do?


    Wang Shi felt even more guilty when she saw her docility. She softened her voice and said, ¡°Good, good, I knew you are the most understanding! Good child, I won¡¯t allow you to suffer grievance!¡± She ordered Nanny Feng to take out a box embedded with mother-of-pearl. Opening the box, there was a dazzling filigree hairpin, decorated with pearls, jade and gold pieces. Wang Shi passed it to Sang Wan personally and said, ¡°This hairpin is said to be the precious possession of an imperial concubine from the previous dynasty. This was gifted by this filial child, Fengju, to me on my fiftieth birthday. I am old and have no use for this. Today, I will give it to you as a present! Come, I will help you put it on!¡±


    ¡°This is mother¡¯s birthday present, how can I ept this?¡± Sang Wan quickly rejected. What use did it have other than being another expensive item to safeguard! What she did not know was that Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes were already filled with jealousy. She had coaxed her mother on several asions to give it to her, however, Wang Shi would always obstinately refuse to give it to her. This time, she actually gave it to Sang Wan! This woman, what underhanded tactics did she use!


    ¡°Mother is giving it to you, so stop refusing! Come, I will put it on for you!¡± Wang Shi smiled and waved.


    Sang Wan had no choice but to concede. She bent her knees lightly and leaned forward to let Wang Shi push the hairpin carefully into Sang Wan¡¯s intricate hairdo. An enormous pearl dangled from the hairpin and it almost reached her shoulder. The essory was dazzling and it entuated Sang Wan¡¯s exquisite beauty.

 Chapter 129

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 129</h4>


    ¡°Good, good!¡± Wang Shi smiled happily, ¡°Our Sang Wan¡¯s beauty is indeed unrivalled!¡± With that, Wang Shi had someone help Sang Wan back to her seat.


    Wang Shi turned to Shi Yumei and added, ¡°If you¡¯re filled with grievances, please let me or your brother know. You¡¯re not allowed to act so unruly without any regard for the rules! A prestigiousdy from the Shi family is not amon shrew on the street!¡±


    ¡°Yes...¡± Shi Yumei swallowed her words and lowered her head.


    ¡°This issue ends here!¡± Wang Shi waved her hand and said, ¡°You should all head back now, I¡¯m getting a headache from this! Fengju, apany Sang Wan back.¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded and left with Sang Wan.


    After they left the courtyard, Sang Wan immediately kept a distance from Shi Fengju and silently went to hold Liu Ya¡¯s hand as they returned.


    Shi Fengju opened his mouth but swallowed his words with a bitter smile. He knew that she had suffered considerably from this, but he understood his sister¡¯s temper even more. In front of his sister, even if he wanted to help his wife, he could not do so too directly. If he did that, his sister might be provoked to do something more extreme. After all, she was his blood-rted sister and his mother really doted on her; what could he do about his sister¡¯s unreasonable actions?


    ¡°Sir, Eldest Missy¡¯s tantrum¡ª¡ª¡± Nanny Li tugged at Shi Fengju and sighed softly, ¡°You have to urge her! If this episode repeats itself, then Ma¡¯am will really have no face left! This old servant must really step in this time; Eldest Missy is in the wrong, Ma¡¯am being angry cannot be med! Luckily, the p did notnd on Ma¡¯am¡¯s face; otherwise, how would she be able to face others?¡±


    ¡°Nanny, why would I not know that it isn¡¯t easy for Sang Wan? But Big Sister is still Big Sister and then there¡¯s my mother too.¡± Shi Fengju said, ¡°Nanny, can you help me coax Sang Wan? I¡¯llpensate her another time!¡±


    ¡°What use is there for you topensate! It isn¡¯t even your fault!¡± Nanny Li could not help butugh, then she sighed, ¡°This old servant was happy to see your progress with Ma¡¯am these few days. Who knew that this would happen! But you are right, this old servant understands your difficulty too. Sir, have you ever thought about why Eldest Missy is so against Ma¡¯am?¡±


    Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows and sighed, ¡°Big Sister was opposed to this marriage since a long time ago and she was always prejudiced against Sang Wan!¡± When Shi Fengju brought it up, he felt bad towards Sang Wan. Wasn¡¯t he the same as his sisterst time? Venting all the anger on Sang Wan even though she waspletely innocent. This marriage was an arrangement made by the elders of the two households, neither of them could change their final decision. But he vented all his anger on her and she had no choice but to endure his torrent.


    It definitely wasn¡¯t fair for her!


    ¡°That could be a reason, but that was only when our eldest missy has never seen our Ma¡¯am and isn¡¯t familiar with her which could be why she has a prejudice against her. But our Ma¡¯am is such a finedy; who will dislike her after spending some time with her? Unless, someone is behind this!¡± Nanny Li said.


    ¡°Nanny, are you hinting at something? Nanny, please be more direct instead!¡± Shi Fengju felt like some truth mighte out of this.


    Nanny Li rolled her eyes and tutted disapprovingly, ¡°Then this old servant will be straightforward with you! Sir, my words may not be pleasant to the ears, but who else in this household wants to see the downfall of Ma¡¯am and her being ill-treated? That will be none other than the person staying in Peony Park! Eldest Missy has always been close with Miss Gu and they seem unusually closer these days! This old servant doesn¡¯t believe that Miss Gu is not responsible for Eldest Missy to act in such a way today!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi?¡± Shi Fengju was stunned momentarily. He really hadn¡¯t thought about it that way at all. But it was just¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I think Fangzi is really obedient these days. Nanny, are you thinking too much? Anyway, she¡¯s only a concubine and Sang Wan is my wife. Even if Sang Wan isn¡¯t liked by my sister, what benefits could she reaped out of it?¡±


    ¡°Sir, just listen to yourself!¡± Nanny Li said disappointedly, ¡°Think about it, if Ma¡¯am bes hated by everyone, won¡¯t it be her turn to shine?¡±


    ¡°Nanny Li, your words don¡¯t seem to make sense too.¡± Shi Fengju shook his head and said, ¡°If Cousin Fangzi really want to assault Sang Wan, shouldn¡¯t she start with me? What¡¯s the use of influencing Big Sister? Sang Wan is my wife, as long as I am good to her, what can my sister do?¡±


    Nanny Li was stunned momentarily. Sir¡¯s words made sense. In a fight for affection, shouldn¡¯t Gu Fangzi be going for Sir? Instead of doing that, she went and influenced Eldest Missy. This didn¡¯t seem right. Like what Sir had said, as long as he continued to think highly of Ma¡¯am, Eldest Missy was only a woman married to another household, she could not involve herself in her brother¡¯s family. Sir was also a steadfast man, he wouldn¡¯t change his mind because of his sister.


    ¡°No matter what, Ma¡¯am has suffered today! Eldest Missy¡¯s attitude towards Ma¡¯am is also really strange. It shouldn¡¯t be the case, this is strange! When Eldest Missy came back, Ma¡¯am has always treated her with grace and kindness, and never uttered anyints. This old servant has always been watching... This is so strange, really strange!¡± Nanny Li was perturbed.


    Shi Fengju suddenly seemed to have understood why and his eyes narrowed.


    ¡°Alright nanny, don¡¯t worry. Sang Wan is my wife, no matter how others might falsely use her, I will still believe in her and protect her. You should quickly go back and apany her. I, I¡¯ll not go back for now! I¡¯m afraid she¡¯ll be even angrier at the sight of me.¡±


    ¡°Understood, then I will head over first! Remember toe back early in the afternoon and cajole Ma¡¯am. She knows you¡¯re in a difficult position and won¡¯t me you!¡± Nanny Li nodded and left.


    The thought of Ren Zhixian and Sang Yufei immediately came to mind. Sang Yufei became the top escorted examinee on his first try. On the other hand, Ren Zhixian failed even after three tries. With this stark contrast in addition to his egoistic and pedantic personality, it will be weird if he don¡¯t feel any animosity towards Sang Yufei! My own sister is alsopetitive and extremely protective of those around her. Adding to her own prejudice against Sang Wan, isn¡¯t that adding fuel to the fire?


    Shi Fengju had a headache thinking about it. Sang Wan was innocent, but his sister was quite pitiful as well. However, the one facing the most difficulty was him, being stuck in between those two!


    When Nanny Li returned to Ning Garden, she saw Hong Ye carrying a wooden box out. Seeing that it was the box which contained Shi Fengju¡¯s finance books, Nanny Li asked where she was bringing it to.


    Hong Ye lowered her head and mumbled, ¡°Ma¡¯am has instructed me to bring this to Sir¡¯s study room...¡±


    Nanny Li¡¯s eyes dimmed: Ma¡¯am is really upset this time! These few days, Sir would often bring a few finance books for her to help, and the two of them would spend time together in the small study room. Everything was going very well, but Ma¡¯am really is angry this time to even refuse to touch these anymore.


    ¡°Go! Sir should be in the study room now.¡± Nanny Li nodded.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± Nanny Li came in from outside and smiled, only to see Sang Wan consoling Liu Ya.


    ¡°Nanny, you¡¯re back!¡± Sang Wan smiled, ¡°You must be tired, you should go back and rest if there is nothing else!¡±


    ¡°The day today is short, and it will turn dark in awhile. Nanny is fine to do without the rest! Maybe Ma¡¯am would like to rest? I can call you when dinner is ready?¡± Nanny Li smiled and said.


    Sang Wan smiled gently, ¡°A day passed so quickly with me sitting around like this!¡±


    Nanny Li chatted with Sang Wan for a while longer. She wanted to say someforting words to Sang Wan, but from the way Sang Wan was acting normally and did not show any negativity, she was not able to do so.


    Nanny Li praised to herself that Sang Wan had great magnanimity. But she was quick to realize the difference. Sang Wan did not treat the maidservants differently, but her attitude towards Shi Fenju was lukewarm. Normally when Shi Fengju returned, they would say a few words to each other and the atmosphere was always light. But today, even though there was still a light atmosphere and Sang Wan still helped him to undress, pass him hot towel and serve tea, everyone could sense the difference.


    When Shi Fengju spoke to her, she lowered her eyes and answered indifferently. She did not ignore him or start amotion, but there was an awkward atmosphere lingering in the air.


    Shi Fengju did not want to say it in front of the servants and merely sighed in his heart. He thought his lovely wife had no temper, but looked like he was wrong.


    After dinner, Shi Fengju pulled her forcefully into their chamber and everyone left the room tactfully.


    ¡°Sang Wan, are you really angry with me? You even sent the books back! I was hoping to give the numbers to my subordinates tomorrow. If you don¡¯t help me, I don¡¯t know howte I would have to stay up tonight!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and stepped forward.


    However, Sang Wan did not give him face and stepped aside before saying indifferently, ¡°I should not intervene in the family¡¯s business. Sir, please don¡¯t make things difficult for me anymore. If someone were to know about this and wants to hit me for abusing my power to intervene in the Shi family¡¯s business, I don¡¯t know if there will still be a loyal servant to take the p for me anymore!¡±


    Shi Fengju did not expect her words to be so sour and he choked. But knowing his sister, she could really say that if she knew about it!


    Shi Fengju sighed unwittingly, ¡°Sang Wan, why can¡¯t you trust me again? This really was a mischance, but didn¡¯t Mother help you today? Big Sister won¡¯t dare to touch you again!¡±


    ¡°Then what if she does?¡± Sang Wan raised her head and looked at Shi Fengju squarely. These few days, Shi Yumei had caused so much trouble for her that she was frustrated and tired. Shi Yumei was not like Gu Fangzi. At the very least, Gu Fangzi knew her ce and did not dare to do anything on the front. As long as she remained vignt, it wouldn¡¯t be easy for Gu Fangzi to plot anything against her. On the other hand, Shi Yumei had no fear at all. It was not the first time Shi Yumei was tantly rude towards her, but she couldn¡¯t do anything about it at all because Shi Yumei was the legitimate daughter of Shi family who was doted on by her mother, Wang Shi!


    She had never heard of a mother-inw helping a daughter-inw instead of her daughter. Furthermore, since that daughter was in some terrible predicament, shouldn¡¯t the daughter-inw be more sympathetic, magnanimous, and tolerating?


    ¡°If she touches me again, will you hit her back for me? Or if I retaliate, will I be scolded by you or your mother?¡± Sang Wan sneered, ¡°Tell me! You can¡¯t, right?¡±


    Shi Fengju said with a straight face, ¡°I won¡¯t let such a thing happen again. I will tell Nanny Li and Zhide to look out for you. No matter what, I will not let her touch you at all. If this happens again, I¡¯ll send them back to Mengxian, okay?¡±


    Sang Wan said coldly, ¡°If she touches my people, what difference is it with hitting me in the face? You want to send them away? Please don¡¯t! If not, your idea will be mine and your mother will surely me me for it!¡±

 Chapter 130

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 130</h4>


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°If this is not okay and that is not okay; tell me, what do you want me to do?¡±


    Sang Wan was at a loss of words. Because, she didn¡¯t know what could be done too! Shi Yumei was just like a beancurd dropped among a pile of ash; she couldn¡¯t be blown away or hit!


    Shi Fengju sighed and put his hand on Sang Wan¡¯s shoulder. Even if Sang Wan moved away, he was not angry and said calmly, ¡°My sister isn¡¯t actually a bad person, she¡¯s just stubborn and direct. More often than not, she will sometimes speak without any consideration for the people around her and not give them any face. Sang Wan, she just has some prejudice against you. I think, if she knows you better, she won¡¯t treat you this way! I will do my best to let her get to know you more and let her know that you¡¯re my¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that!¡± Sang Wan became impatient, ¡°I¡¯m not that hopeful! If you wish to change her even when you know her temper, don¡¯t you think it sounds ridiculous? Furthermore, there¡¯s no need for it anyway!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, what do you mean by this?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s expression changed. There is no need for it, is she still insistent on leaving his side?


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Sang Wan shook her head before asking nonchntly, ¡°Has your third brother and my second brother returned? Did you ask them about it? What¡¯s the oue?¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju smiled bitterly, ¡°Didn¡¯t Mother say to stop, why are you raising it up again?¡±


    Sang Wan gave an incredulous look at him and said coldly, ¡°What? Even the oue cannot be told to me? Even so, I trust my second brother¡¯s morals; I know even without asking you! But I still wanted to ask because if we were in the wrong this time, will your sister still let it go?¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju looked at her sternly, ¡°You are the eldest daughter-inw of our Shi family, there are bound to be times when you¡¯ll have to suffer a little. There are some things that ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me anymore!¡± Sang Wan was exasperated. On the outside, she was a Ma¡¯am who had everything, with maidservants to order around, but was she able to escape her misery because of that? When the hostility was just right behind a thin curtain, had she not chosen to let go? She just smiled and ignored the scoldings and sarcastic words that rained upon her all these times. When that woman came to Ning Garden to ask for her things, she gave it. There was even a time when she eyed Zhide and almost took her away without permission. This time, it was something even more ridiculous: barging into her ce, pointing at her nose while scolding her, and even hitting someone. Even if she were well-tempered, surely there was no way she could continue enduring all of it?


    Sang Wan got up and left silently. Shi Fengju called out to her twice but she did not respond. She was too na?ve. She was too na?ve to think that he would change for her in this lifetime. She tried, little by little, all because she was naive!


    In fact, all of these could be resolved easily. As long as Gu Fangzi reced her and became the Shi family¡¯s Ma¡¯am, everything could be resolved and everyone would be free from this misery.


    Sang Wan was finally clear. She was too foolish, trying to be a magnanimous and nice woman. Why not do the opposite? The worst she would get was a divorce document! She still had her brothers and sister-inw, surely they wouldn¡¯t abandon her? After all, her two brothers and sister-inw would not want her to swallow all her resentments and continue to be bullied anyways!


    Shi Fengju sat in the chamber for a moment before letting out a few sighs with a hand on his forehead. This matter was even moreplicated than his business; his head was hurting so badly just from the thought of it! His wife was angry and his sister was unhappy! But he would not have been in this difficult position if he did not love them dearly! But neither of them understood his difficulty and were now both angry at him!


    Being a good person sure was difficult!


    When Shi Fengju returned home to rest, the bed curtains were already pulled closed and Sang Wan had already gone to sleep. He gently pulled one corner of the curtain and realized that this woman did not leave him any space like she would in the past few days.


    Shi Fengju hesitated for a moment, feeling lost on whether he should shamelessly squeeze beside her or obediently pull out a mattress and sleep on the floor.


    Sang Wan could feel the presence of someone standing beside the bed and she opened her eyes in reflex.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju smiled when he saw that she was awake, ¡°Sang Wan, the weather is cold, please leave me some space! I promise I won¡¯t disturb you.¡±


    Sang Wan did not want to see him at this moment, let alone lie on the same bed as him. This bast*rd had been acting pitiful and sugarcoating all his words for the past few days, to the point where she almost became sympathetic, but it seemed that there was no need to be!


    ¡°This is your room, if you want to sleep on the bed, I can¡¯t stop you either. I¡¯ll just give you space!¡± Sang Wan got up and was about to get out off the bed.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Shi Fengju panicked and held her.


    ¡°Giving you space!¡± Sang Wan said coolly, ¡°You can take the bed, I will sleep on the floor.¡±


    ¡°Forget it! Just go back to sleep!¡± Shi Fengju could not help but get angry. He let go of the curtain and pulled a long face as he forcefully opened the cab to take out the mattress.


    Sang Wan merely ignored him and continued sleeping.


    A cold war began between the two and the atmosphere in Ning Garden turned awkward. Even though the two were still polite to each other, everyone felt ufortable to be caught in the middle of the conflict.


    After asking Shi Fenghua, Shi Yumei felt embarrassed after knowing that it was a misunderstanding and asked, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you ask your brother-inw to go along with you when you left today? What¡¯s the meaning of leaving him out!¡±


    There was no way Shi Fenghua could say he purposely left Ren Zhixian out, so hemented, ¡°My friends in school said that they wanted to meet Top Escorted Examinee Sang and only wished to see Second Brother Sang, I didn¡¯t have any choice too!¡±


    Shi Yumei saw that her brother sounded convincing and had no choice but to let it go.


    Shi Fengju then said, ¡°Big Sister, I think that the age gap between Brother-inw Zhixian and Fenghua is a little big and the experiences they have are different, will Brother-inw Zhixian even have amon topic with them? There¡¯s no need to force Brother-inw Zhixian, he just has to study hard in Jiao Garden; no need to make him feel obliged to spend time with them all the time.


    That was just what Shi Fenghua needed! Shi Fenghua immediately chimed in and said, ¡°Yes, yes Big Sister, Brother-inw Zhixian¡¯s words are too deep for us, we don¡¯t understand them at all! Anyway, we also feel bad for taking up his study time too! Next time, he doesn¡¯t have toe!¡±


    ¡°Really? His words are too deep?¡± Shi Yumei was ted and asked too, ¡°Did Top Escorted Examinee Sang say the same as well?¡±


    ¡°Of course...¡± Shi Fenghua smiled and said.


    ¡°I told you so, your brother-inw is the real deal!¡± Shi Yumei was proud momentarily and generously patted Shi Fenghua¡¯s shoulder. She said, ¡°You are my brother, we are a family, it is only right that your brother-inw shares with you his knowledge. How is this considered disturbing him? Hehe, but, hmph, we cannot give free lunches to that person from the Sang family! It will be too much of a bonus for him to hear from your brother-inw! Let your brother-inw guide you after he leaves, hehe! Maybe next time, our family will have a proper top escorted examinee too and not have to rely on the fame of others!


    Shi Fenghua gave a perfunctory smile and thought: After Second Brother Sang leaves, I better get back to the academy too! He could not help but pity his sister. Why did shend herself into such a marriage!


    ¡°If our Fenghua could be a top escorted examinee, that will be good!¡± Wang Shi heard what she liked, but she also chided Shi Yumei, ¡°Yumei, don¡¯t keep pointing fingers at Sang family, we are now inws. Just think of how Sang Wan would feel if she heard what you said. I am already wizened, how long more can I continue to protect you? Soon, you¡¯ll still have to rely on her for assistance!¡±


    ¡°Who needs her!¡± Shi Yumei said under her breath, ¡°Fengju, Fenghua, are they not my brothers? Anyways, there is still Cousin Fangzi! So please, I don¡¯t need her!¡±


    ¡°Yumei!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s face turned stern, ¡°Don¡¯t speak such rubbish anymore! No matter what, Sang Wan is this household¡¯s Ma¡¯am. If you act this way all the time, where is her authority, how will she manage this household?¡±


    ¡°So what if she can¡¯tmand the respect of others, what has it got to do with me? If she is capable, then what can I do to affect it? Mother, you can¡¯t just me me for everything!¡± Shi Yumei was indignant.


    ¡°You!¡± Wang Shi was so angry that she was at a loss for words.


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t say such negative words anymore. You are still in good health and have many more years of prosperity to enjoy, at least until our third brother bes an official? Why say such words now!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    ¡°Aiyo, if there is such a day, I can surely die in peace!¡± Wang Shi could not help but be happy at that prospect.


    ¡°Mother, Big Brother already told you not to speak that way, but you are doing it again! I will definitely not let you down, Mother!¡± Shi Fenghua said eagerly.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Mother. Third brother is so clever, that day will surely happen!¡± Shi Yumeiughed and said.


    Shi Fengju said to Shi Yumei, ¡°Big Sister, we are siblings from the same mother, the main gate to this house will always be open for you. No one in this family will bully you!¡±


    ¡°I just knew I didn¡¯t dote on my brother for nothing!¡± Shi Yumei felt touched at his words and her eyes became a little moist. Wang Shi was also moved from his words. Compared to Sang Wan, she cared more about her son¡¯s attitude. If her son said this, then she had no worries anymore.


    ¡°Big Sister, if you feel miserable next time, please tell me first! I will surely uphold justice for you!¡± What he meant was for her not to act rashly and take matters into her own hands!


    In the end, you are still protecting Sang Wan! Shi Yumei¡¯s expression darkened.


    On the other hand, Wang Shi agreed with his words and nodded, ¡°Fengju is absolutely right! That should be the way!¡±


    ¡°Since Mother has spoken, what else can I say?¡± Shi Yumei rolled her eyes at Shi Fengju, ¡°Alright, next time I won¡¯t find trouble for her!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju was out of words and could only smile bitterly. He really did not know if her trait of being straightforward was a boon or bane.


    Shi Yumei was initially apprehensive and worried that her brother would remember that she still had to apologise to Sang Wan. Who knew that Shi Fengju would divert to some other topic and did not mention about the apology at all?


    Shi Yumei felt more relieved. She was the Eldest Missy of the Shi Household, why would she need to bow down to that nobody from the Sang family? In her dreams! Of course, if Sang Wan was in the wrong, she had to apologise to her instead.


    Shi Yumei felt justified. So when she saw Sang Wan in the garden, she immediately looked away conceitedly and turned her head to a side. She wanted to add a few mean remarks, but she held them back after recalling her brother¡¯s words.

 Chapter 131

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 131</h4>


    Sang Wan¡¯s temper red up. Yesterday, Shi Yumei falsely used her and made a big fuss before proiming that she would apologize if she was in the wrong. However, she did not feel any guilt today and instead acted so arrogantly. Did she really think Sang Wan was a soft pickle for her to bully?


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Sang Wan turned and loudly called out to Shi Yumei.


    Shi Yumei froze and turned to give a re at Sang Wan. She curled her lips and raised her brows as she said, ¡°You called me? Is there something?¡±


    ¡°Yes. There is something I would like to speak with Big Sister about!¡± Sang Wan nodded and smiled. She gave a signal for the maidservants to give them some space and walked towards a secluded path at the side, ¡°Can Big Sistere over for a moment?¡±


    ¡°Speak your mind, what¡¯s with all these strange actions?¡± Shi Yumei said but she followed Sang Wan nheless.


    Using a flower bush taller than a human height to conceal them, only a part of their clothes could be seen.


    ¡°What are you going to do about the truth from yesterday? Big Sister seems to owe me an apology?¡± Sang Wan looked squarely at Shi Yumei¡¯s face as she said coldly.


    Shi Yumei never thought that Sang Wan had this side to her. Shocked, her eyes widened and eximed,¡±What did you say!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of raising your voice? Feeling guilty? I¡¯m only asking when you will apologize to me!¡± Sang Wanughed lightly.


    ¡°You, you!¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that her whole body trembled. As the expression on her face turned from green to white, she spat, ¡°Not that you deserve it!¡±


    Sang Wan looked at her scornfully and sneered, ¡°I didn¡¯t put those words in your mouth. If what happened to me yesterday happened to you instead, would you have let it go so easily? Anyway, I¡¯m the Ma¡¯am of Shi Household, in what way do i not deserve your apology? Ma¡¯am Ren!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s face turned ghastly pale and she looked at Sang Wan in disbelief. Nervous, her breathing was rapid and she was too infuriated to speak.


    Sang Wan¡¯s final words were the same as stabbing her in the heart with a sharp knife. Sang Wan was clearly telling her that she was the rightful owner of Shi household and that she was but an outsider!


    ¡°Forget it! I¡¯m toozy to bicker with you!¡± Sang Wan said mockingly, ¡°After all, I can understand that it isn¡¯t easy for you! But only this time. Next time, don¡¯t me me for not showing mercy!¡±


    ¡°You, you, who do you think you are!¡± Shi Yumei gasped and said loathingly, ¡°You¡¯re just a country bumpkin from a lousy family, what rights do you have to act all arrogant in our Shi family! How dare you lecture me and speak to me this way! You vige shrew! I will make Fengju divorce you! Watch me!¡±


    Sang Wan was infuriated too, responding with a mirthlessugh, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m a country bumpkin from a lousy family, so what? This country bumpkin from a lousy family is the Ma¡¯am of this household who has gone through all the proper marriage ceremonials and was brought in by the sedan chair through the main gate! Ma¡¯am Ren, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s up to the likes of you to say that to me. If you can speak to me in such a way, why can¡¯t I do the same? You want Fengju to divorce me? Then tell him, what¡¯s the use of telling me!¡±


    Shi Yumei was mortified and the emotions inside her were overflowing; there were no words to describe how she was feeling now! An angry voice inside her screamed loudly: This shrew! This shrew!


    ¡°Don¡¯t think you are so great just because your second brother has be a top escorted examinee! Our¡ª¡ª hmph, Shi family has no need to rely on a distant rtive to boost our fame! Fengju and Cousin Fangzi have been childhood sweethearts since young; their feelings for each other are real. Hmph, Fengju would wish for no more than to divorce you and marry her!¡±


    Sang Wan concealed her anger and retorted, ¡°So what if I think that it¡¯s an impressive feat for my second brother to be a top escorted examinne? I¡¯m proud of him! Try getting that title too if your family¡¯s capable too, what¡¯s the point of just talking bad about my family! Hmph, that Gu Fangzi is just a concubine, even if Fengju divorces me, he will never marry her as his wife. If you don¡¯t believe me, then you can go ask him about it. Furthermore, people change with time, Fengju will never look at a lowly and despicable person like Gu Fangzi. Only you; you are the only one who gets along well with her! Go ahead and ask Fengju if you can¡¯t bring yourself to believe me!¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth!¡± Shi Yumei pointed at her and her voice trembled, ¡°How dare you im I¡¯m despicable, Sang Wan, you vixen!¡±


    Shi Yumei raised her hand but Sang Wan held it firmly, ¡°Big Sister, stop being unreasonable anymore! What can you do if I don¡¯t let you to?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Yumei shook away Sang Wan¡¯s hand forcefully and sneered, ¡°I see, I see, I have judged you wrongly! An uncivilised country bumpkin is still a country bumpkin with bad upbringing! I don¡¯t believe Fengju will still want you after seeing your true colors!¡±


    ¡°Please look into the mirror before criticizing others!¡± Sang Wanughed under her breath and spoke again, ¡°If you think he¡¯ll believe you, then go ahead and tell him! From now on, it¡¯s best we leave each other alone; don¡¯t mess with me next time, else don¡¯t me me for whates after!¡±


    ¡°As if I¡¯d believe that! What can you do! My mother¡¯s not dead yet and it is not yet your time to do as you wish in this household!¡± Shi Yumei jumped in anger.


    ¡°You can try,¡± Sang Wan spoke coldly before taking her leave.


    ¡°That shrew! That shrew!¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that her legs turned to jelly and she would have fallen onto the ground if not for her maidservanting to hold her. She finally exhaled a long breath and left resentfully.


    Shi Yumei had nned to go to Peony Park to tell Gu Fangzi and discuss a countermeasure while ranting to her, but all of a sudden, she changed her mind. She was utterly humiliated by Sang Wan; she couldn¡¯t possible share that with someone else! That could never happen! No one, other than herself, could know about it! Otherwise, who knows what those servants, who serve Sang Wan, would say about her if they knew! As the proper eldest missy from the Shi family, how could she let others speak behind her back!


    ¡°We¡¯re going back!¡± Shi Yumei exhaled.


    ¡°Missy, are we not taking a walk around the park anymore?¡± Xiao Shuang asked with a smile.


    ¡°What walk!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s anger returned and she sneered, ¡°What¡¯s so good about some other family¡¯s garden!¡±


    Shi Yumei quickly regretted losing the control of her words after seeing Xiao Shuang¡¯s startled gaze. With a flick on Xiao Shuang¡¯s forehead, Shi Yumei uttered, ¡°Nosy! We¡¯re going back!¡±


    Having vented all that unhappiness from within, Sang Wan was feeling a sense of tion. But that quickly changed to uneasiness and she regretted her actions after a quick reflection. Now, Shi Yumei would have something to use against her; who knows what she would say in front of her mother and brother! In any case, Sang Wan had said what she wanted to, even if it was not appropriate. There was no way to control what Shi Yumei does and in the worst case scenario, she would just be handed a divorce document!


    Sang Wan calmly awaited for the imminent storm. Who knew that a day would pass without anything happening. Her mother-inw did not send anyone to call her over and Shi Fengju did not mention anything when he returned at night. When shey on her bed, she felt that it was surreal!


    On the next day after breakfast, when Sang Wan arrived to greet her mother-inw, Shi Yumei¡¯s expression immediately changed and she turned away quickly. However, she did not speak in a mean tone like on normal days.


    Sang Wan suddenly understood: it seemed like she never told anyone about what happened yesterday!


    It is a given that Shi Yumei hated me, but it seemed like now, she¡¯s also afraid of me. At least, she won¡¯t dare to openly humiliate me anymore.


    Really, some people are just spiteful! Sang Wan thought to herself coldly.


    ¡°Daughter-inw Sang Wan is here to send her greetings!¡± Sang Wan obediently went forward and bowed respectfully.


    ¡°Good, good! Take a seat and chat with us!¡± Wang Shi raised her hand and smiled as per usual. Simr to previous days, she spoke with Sang Wan about the trifle things.


    Only Shi Yumei was behaving differently. She was exceptionally quiet today and did not utter a word beside Wang Shi.


    ¡°Yumei, what¡¯s wrong with you? Did something happen to you!¡± Wang Shi finally realized her daughter¡¯s unusual silence and asked in concern.


    Shi Yumei threw a nce at Sang Wan and saw an annoying mask of serenity on her face. Feeling disgruntled, she blurted out, ¡°Nothing! Only that I saw a fly yesterday and felt disgusted!¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking again!¡± Wang Shiughed, ¡°Why would there be flies in this season! Even if there were, why would that disgustst so long? It¡¯s just a fly, there¡¯s no need for you to feel so bothered by it! Sang Wan, don¡¯t you agree with me?¡±


    Sang Wanughed and said, ¡°Mother, you are right! But there is no absolute in the world, not just Big Sister, even I seemed to have seen a fly too! It frustrates me how it cannot be chased away or hit and it bothers everyone around it! Annoying, don¡¯t you think? No wonder Big Sister is feeling down today!¡±


    Shi Yumei stared at Sang Wan with her eyes wide in disbelief. She was tongue-tied by Sang Wan¡¯s retort and did not know what to say in retaliation.


    However, Wang Shi thought literally and was greatly surprised, ¡°Really? What a coincidence!¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it so!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°But Sang Wan didn¡¯t keep that in mind; who knew it¡¯d affect Big Sister greatly! If Big Sister still feels ufortable, then please have a good rest! Mother, I won¡¯t disturb you anymore and will take my leave first!¡±


    ¡°Haha, go, go!¡± Wang Shi smiled and waved her farewell.


    Sang Wan smiled as she took her leave, but she suddenly turned her head back to Shi Yumei and smiled, ¡°Oh right, Big Sister! If there are anymore flies that upset Big Sister, then there must be an issue with our household¡¯s hygiene. Don¡¯t forget to inform me and I¡¯ll instruct the servants to clean and disinfect every corner!¡±


    Shi Yumei expression became worse and she grunted without giving a response.


    ¡°Yumei! What¡¯s the matter with you!¡± Wang Shi nudged Shi Yumei once, and creased her eyebrow, ¡°Sang Wan is just being kind in her offer, how could you be like this! Hehe, Sang Wan, don¡¯t worry, don¡¯t worry, go ahead with the rest of your day. Ah! Your big sister¡¯s temper is just like this!¡±


    ¡°Mother, maybe Big Sister is just affected by the fly and is not feeling well today! Why would I bicker with Big Sister on this! Then I¡¯ll take my leave now!¡± Sang Wan smiled and left.


    ¡°Hypocrite!¡± Shi Yumei could no longer hold in her breath and snapped coldly right after Sang Wan left.


    ¡°Yumei!¡± Wang Shi scolded her sternly, ¡°Why are you so entric these days? Sang Wan is just being kind, how could you say that? What would she think if she heard you!¡±


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°She isn¡¯t that simple to be taken down! You should use your head to think more often!¡±


    ¡°Imprudent! You are getting more and more rude these days!¡± Wang Shi mmed the tea table and raised her voice as she scolded sternly, ¡°Yumei! Let me warn you never to speak in such an odd manner in the future! What did Sang Wan do to offend you to cause you to have something against her all the time? Just like what happened two days ago, she didn¡¯t mention anything about it after that day and didn¡¯t force you to apologize to her; are herpromises not enough? As an older sister, you have none of her magnanimity and still discriminate against her all the time! Ask yourself honestly, if the roles were reversed two days ago, would you have easily let it go? Tell me!¡±

 Chapter 132

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 132</h4>


    ¡°Mother, you, you¡¯re helping her! You¡¯re siding with her too!¡± Feeling embarrassed, Shi Yumei was flustered and her eyes reddened.


    There was a feeling ofpassion in Wang Shi, but she hardened herself and spoke coldly, ¡°I¡¯m not siding with anyone, I¡¯m only speaking objectively! You are being too unreasonable!¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine! You guys are all against me! I will leave, I will leave, okay!¡± Shi Yumei cried and got up.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Wang Shi was so angry that her voice trembled, ¡°Fine! Fine! You¡¯re bing daring enough to throw a tantrum in front of me, right? You are someone that even I have to worship in this household and follow your wishes! Fine, fine! Leave, just leave!¡±


    Shi Yumei was stunned and her crying stopped abruptly.


    Nanny Jiang quickly rushed forward and calmed Wang Shi down at her back, ¡°Mistress, calm down and don¡¯t be angry! Eldest Missy is your daughter. She¡¯ll, of course, have to respect and be filial to you! Mistress, please don¡¯t say such words out of anger! Eldest Missy will feel bad from hearing it!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to coax me!¡± Wang Shi wiped her tears andmented, ¡°If she really respects me and has me in her heart, then she wouldn¡¯t be creating so much trouble for me! It¡¯s obvious that she isn¡¯t going to let me live in peace!¡±


    ¡°That isn¡¯t so! Mistress, you are just thinking too much!¡± Nanny Jiang coaxed her repeatedly, and looked towards Shi Yumei, ¡°Eldest Missy, please say something! Mistress only wants the best for you!¡±


    ¡°Mother, it was my mistake, I am really sorry, Mother! Don¡¯t be sad and don¡¯t cry anymore!¡± Shi Yumei followed Nanny Jiang¡¯s cue. She kneeled in front of Wang Shi and tugged her sleeves.


    ¡°Why am I sad? Isn¡¯t all because of you!¡± Wang Shi cried and said, ¡°All I wish is for you sister-inws to live in harmony, even Fangzi is respectful towards Sang Wan, so why are you the only one throwing tantrums all over the ce? Regardless of what the two of you thought of Sang Wan in the past, she¡¯s now our Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw. She¡¯s good in every aspect and respects your brother; it feels so good to live through the days peacefully! Must you create conflict every now and then? Sang Wan is a good girl; even though she has never said anything, you can¡¯t keep behaving this way all the time. How long are you going to behave this way! And what can you change even if you behave this way? You¡¯re just creating more trouble for everyone! Yumei, do you know that you¡¯re just making things difficult for your mother and brother!¡±


    ¡°Mother, I won¡¯t anymore, I won¡¯t anymore, okay?¡± Shi Yumei felt both bitter and sour from her mother¡¯s words. However, she had to concede to and cajole her mother. At the same time, she felt even more indignant in her heart. Sang Wan indeed isn¡¯t simple, even mother is ensnared by her! Hmph, just seeing her true colours yesterday, there¡¯s no way for us to live well together! Even if she can¡¯t wait to deal with me, it¡¯s not yet her turn to do as she pleases in this family! There is also Mother and Brother! If not, there¡¯s no way she would still be polite to me!


    ¡°If you can understand me, then you should reflect on my words!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s tears gradually stopped and she added, ¡°Only then can she take good care of you and Mother can stop worrying too! After all, she¡¯s in charge of this household; even if Mother is around, all of this authority will still be handed over to her in the future. Your brother is also a grown man; the family business is already keeping him busy, how could he be able to handle all the mundane household activities as well? He still has to rely on Sang Wan!


    ¡°It¡¯s not as if we will be staying here forever!¡± Shi Yumei was unhappy, ¡°When my husband finally seeds and bes an official, we will leave then!¡± Behind those words meant that she did not need Sang Wan¡¯s care!


    ¡°Only if that really happens!¡± Wang Shi gave a soft snort.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei immediately felt hurt by her mother words, ¡°Mother, do you really look down on my husband so much? Does my husband really not deserve to seed forever? I just don¡¯t believe it!¡±


    Wang Shi felt bad for demoralising her daughter. Even though she did not have much faith in Ren Zhixian, she could only sigh as she coaxed her daughter, ¡°Mother did not mean that! After all, the future remains uncertain! It¡¯s always good to have a backup n!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei was infuriated, ¡°Doesn¡¯t that still mean the same; you just don¡¯t have faith in him!¡±


    ¡°Enough, enough!¡± Wang Shi creased her eyebrows and said, ¡°All I meant is that there¡¯s never too much preparation in life. If he so happens not to¡ª¡ª no, we¡¯ll talk if he really seeds. Right now, aren¡¯t you still staying in the household? Can¡¯t you just treat this as giving me a few light and carefree days? I say, you are the strange one here; Fengju is the one who married Sang Wan so why do you have so much to pick on when he has nothing against it!¡±


    Shi Yumei opened her mouth, and lowered her head, ¡°I just, felt it¡¯s not right for Fangzi ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Quiet!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s expression darkened, ¡°How could you say that? Fangzi is my niece and she grew up with Fengju since young. She also became a concubine willingly and has received my promise to have an equal status as Sang Wan when she gives birth to a son of her own. What resentment does she have? She hasn¡¯t said anything, do you think it is up to you to be nosy about other people¡¯s¡¯ matters? You should focus more on that vixen living with you! I am warning you, no matter what, Sang Wan is the wife and Fangzi is the concubine. Ever since the beginning of time, the wife and concubine are treated differently. If this rule is flouted, this household will be a mess! Our Shi household cannot allow such things as spoiling the concubine and neglecting the wife to happen!


    ¡°But Fangzi and brother are the perfect pair! Sang Wan¡¯s obviously the one being in between them!¡±


    ¡°The marriage between the families was set by your grandfather when he was alive, do you want to go as far as criticizing your grandfather!¡± Wang Shi red at Shi Yumei and sighed, ¡°I think I¡¯m at a wrong too! If I had known that Fangzi and Fengju would develop to this level, I wouldn¡¯t have allowed their rtionship to develop to such a stage! Sigh, I just thought that it was okay since they were kids then. Who knew ¡ª¡ªsigh! Don¡¯t mention this anymore, do you hear me!¡±


    Shi Yumei was suddenly out of words and she answered in disgruntlement, ¡°Yes, Mother!¡±


    Meanwhile, Concubine Fang was serving Second Old Master Shi tea and listening to him gloat about his prized birds and fish.


    When he began talking about his newly-acquired canary, Second Old Master Shi grinned, ¡°Speaking of which, I must be blessed by the fame of the first family¡¯s daughter-inw¡¯s brother. Hehe, if not for him, that old bat with the surname of Jin would not have given it up so readily to me! Hehe, our Shi family will be more famous when thatd passes the court exams next year and bes a top scorer or whatsoever!¡±


    Finally, the chance hade for Concubine Fang say what she wanted. She took the opportunity to paint Sang Yufei withpliments and said, ¡°Really, the first family¡¯s Ma¡¯am¡¯s appearance, character and attitude aremendable. Who¡¯d have known that her brother would be so outstanding and talented as well? What an exceptionald! I really wonder which luckydy will be able to marry him!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Second Old Master Shi pinched Concubine Fang¡¯s white cheek and gave an elusive smile, ¡°Are you interested in him now? Should I learn from the first family¡¯s eldest missy¡¯s husband and give away my concubine as a gift!¡±


    ¡°Aiyo, Sir!¡± Concubine Fang quickly denied. She looked at Second Old Master Shi flirtatiously and moaned, ¡°What are you saying! Naughty!¡± She giggled and batted her eyes, ¡°Even if I am, will he want me? I¡¯d rather be with you!¡±


    ¡°Heh, at least you have some sense!¡± Second Old Master Shiughed and said, ¡°Just look at you, if I¡¯m him, I also wouldn¡¯t want you¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Concubine Fang puffed, ¡°Sir, at least I gave birth to a daughter for you, do you have to speak about me in such a way?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m only joking with you, why are you so bothered?¡± Second Old Master Shiughed.


    ¡°Your joke isn¡¯t funny at all!¡± Concubine Fang rolled her eyes at him.


    ¡°What? Are you angry at me?¡± Second Old Master Shi smiled as he pinched her again, ¡°You dare toin to me, but it was you who started with all thepliments!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because I¡¯ve something to talk to you about! You¡¯re good so good at making me speak my mind!¡± Concubine Fang avoided his hand and turned her head around beforementing coldly.


    The second old master¡¯s character is like this; the tactic of retreating as an offense worked best on him. Instead of getting angry, he went ahead to coax Concubine Fang, asking her what she needed to talk to him about.


    Fang Concubine waited until his interest was sufficiently piqued before going back to her usual expression. She quickly took the opportunity to act in a coquettish manner and looked at Second Old Master Shi as she sighed, ¡°What can there be? With Sir, I have nothing to worry about. It isn¡¯t me but our daughter who worries me!¡±


    ¡°Ah Rui?¡± Second Old Master Shi was stunned momentarily, ¡°What¡¯s up with Ah Rui? Did she get into trouble?¡±


    ¡°Sir!¡± Concubine Fangined, ¡°Ah Rui is such a docile and obedient girl, what trouble would she cause! Sigh, that girl is getting older by the day, it¡¯s about time for her to find her other half! Of course, this should be decided by Sir and Mistress and not up to this concubine to have any say. But Ah Rui is still my flesh and blood, how can I not want the best for her?¡±


    Second Old Master Shi was initially unhappy when she spoke about this and was about to quote to Concubine Fang that it would be decided by his wife but he quickly stopped when he heard her remaining words. He thought to himself: Ah Rui is her daughter, it¡¯s only normal for a mother to care for her child. And since she still shows respect to Mi Shi, she¡¯s already being courteous!


    ¡°I say, you are being too anxious! How old is Ah Rui now? It¡¯s still early for her!¡± Second Old Master Shiughed casually.


    Concubine Fang quickly replied, ¡°Sir, Ah Rui is twelve this year by the calendar, and turning thirteen next year. She¡¯s not young anymore! This matter should be settled as early as possible so that preparations can be made early! What¡¯s more, with each passing year, all the good ones would already be chosen by the time it¡¯s her turn!¡±


    ¡°Just look at you, being anxious!¡± Second Old Master Shiughed and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve doted on Ah Rui since young, I won¡¯t let her settle for anything less! Just bearing our Shi family¡¯s surname, what worry does she have about not finding a good husband? Even if she were to marry tomorrow, I could prepare her dowry in one night, what preparation is there to make? Really, you start to worry about the unimportant things when you¡¯ve too much time on your hands!¡±


    Concubine Fang became even more anxious and she spoke what was in her heart, ¡°I don¡¯t have any other meaning! I was just thinking that since there¡¯s already an ideal person, why not settle it and resolve this worry?¡±


    ¡°An ideal person?¡± Second Old Master Shi was surprised.

 Chapter 133

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 133</h4>


    ¡°Yes! It¡¯s Second Young Master Sang from Ma¡¯am¡¯s family!¡± Concubine Fang quickly added, ¡°Sir, don¡¯t you think he is an ideal choice? Second Young Master Sang is a fine man and is also a top escorted examinee. There will be no problem in clinching first ce in the court exam next year! Sir, think of how great it would be to have an advanced schr as your son-inw!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right! Why didn¡¯t I think of that?¡± Second Old Master Shi mmed the table upon revtion. The more he thought about it, the more he felt strongly towards the proposal. He said happily, ¡°Yes, Yes! The two families are already inws, this can bring the two families even closer!¡±


    ¡°Sir, you¡¯re brilliant! That¡¯s precisely the reason!¡± Concubine Fang became ted when she heard Second Old Master Shi say ¡°Yes¡± numerous times. If her daughter became the wife of an official and received authority, as her blood-rted mother, she would definitely have afortable life ahead!


    ¡°But, isn¡¯t Second Young Master Sang already neen? Our Ah Rui is only twelve by the calendar, isn¡¯t she a little young?¡± Second Old Master Shi could not help but to feel that the opportunity was squandered; if only his daughter was two or three years older!


    ¡°She¡¯s not young at all, not young at all! The minimum age for the selection of royal concubines is also thirteen!¡± Concubine Fang smiled and said, ¡°This marriage arrangement can be set up first. If the Sang family is anxious to marry, then Ah Rui can marry into their family in two or three years when she¡¯s fourteen. If not, she can marry in once she bes an adult! Our Ah Rui is so obedient, outstanding in terms of looks and characters, and is also a proper missy. She will be a perfect match for Second Young Master Sang!¡±


    ¡°Right! Then this is settled!¡± The more Second Old Master Shi listened, the more convinced he was. He mmed the tea table happily and nodded while smiling, ¡°Tomorrow, I¡¯ll have someone invite Second Young Master Sang over and then speak with him about this!¡±


    ¡°Aiya, Sir!¡± Concubine Fang whined, ¡°You, must be too overjoyed that you lost your senses! How can you speak about this straight to his face? Why don¡¯t I find an excuse to visit this household¡¯s ma¡¯am and hint to her about this. Then, she can deliver this message to Second Young Master Sang for him to inform the rest of his family at home so that they can send someone to officially ask for the marriage! Sir, we can¡¯t make a mistake here! Our family¡¯s missy is a woman; how can the missy be chasing after a man? We should let the man take the first step to give our family¡¯s missy face. Sir, it will also give you and Mistress Mi face as well!


    Second Old Master Shi heard her and heughed out loud. He tapped his head repeatedly and said, ¡°Right, right, you are right! How can a woman be chasing after a man? Our Shi family¡¯s reputation isn¡¯t poor, we can¡¯t have people looking down on us!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it!¡± Concubine Fangughed and said, ¡°Sir, so this is decided? Tomorrow, I will pay a visit to Ma¡¯am then?¡±


    ¡°Yes! We should settle this quickly while Second Young Master Sang is still staying in our household!¡± Second Old Master Shiughed and said.


    ¡°Sir, don¡¯t worry, this concubine knows what to do!¡± Concubine Fang grinned.


    Concubine Fang was so excited that she could not sleep well that night and she discussed with Nanny Ying for a long while before stopping. Just from the thought of the good she would obtain from this marriage, Concubine Fang was over the moon.


    On the next afternoon, when Concubine Fang supposed Sang Wan had settled all the matters within the household, she got changed into a red outer coat with colorful flowers embroidered on it and a violet pleated dress before her hair wasbed. The beautiful gold ornaments were carefully inserted into her hair, and she left with Nanny Ying after dabbing some makeup on her face.


    Both master and servant were feeling excited and their hearts were pounding quickly as they softly discussed among themselves along the way.


    ¡°Nanny Ying, do you think Ma¡¯am will be willing?¡±


    ¡°Oh! Although Second Young Master Sang¡¯s future is bright after bing a top escorted examinee, our Shi family is still the richest in Qingzhou. With that, who can say for certain which is more prestigious? Our Fifth Missy is such a good person, this old servant thinks that this marriage is indeed a heavenly match! Second Young Master Sang isn¡¯t foolish, why would he reject this? Furthermore, Ma¡¯am is only responsible for passing on the word, she has no say in epting or denying this marriage arrangement!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes! Foolish me for speaking such rubbish! Ma¡¯am is such a kind person, she will surely help us pass the word!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, that¡¯s correct! But you aren¡¯t being foolish, just overjoyed, overjoyed!¡±


    ¡°Right, right, that is it!¡±


    The two startedughing.


    Unbeknown to them, a tragedy was about to happen to them from too much joy. Theirughter soon became cries of pain! Two girls knocked into them in the small path; the first who knocked into Concubine Fang wore a yellow dress, and the other who stepped onto Nanny Ying¡¯s foot wore a light blue robe!


    ¡°Aiyo, this hurts for this old woman! Which d*mnedss didn¡¯t look where she¡¯s going!¡± Nanny Ying jumped and eximed.


    ¡°Sorry, sorry! Nanny, I didn¡¯t notice you!¡± A young maidservant quickly went to help Nanny Ying.


    ¡°D*mnedss, you¡ª¡ª¡± Nanny Ying red at the maidservant as she grinded her teeth and exhaled sharply. Just when she was about to give a stern scolding, she quickly realized that the maidservant was Cai Yun, Shi Lian¡¯s head maidservant, and she held herself back in time, swallowing down her resentment.


    Concubine Fang was knocked in the waist. Seeing the dirty footprint on her dress, she became infuriated. But after taking a clearer look at the apologetic girl that was helping her up, she had to swallow her resentment as well.


    Shi Lian was the daughter of the first family. Being a concubine of the second family, she had no authority to scold Shi Lian. After all, She wasn¡¯t as foolish as that *** Concubine Shui .


    ¡°I am so sorry, it was all my fault! Concubine Fang, are your alright? Did you sprain your hip? Let me help you over to have a seat!¡± Shi Lian pulled Concubine Fang¡¯s elbow while remaining apologetic.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine! How can I trouble Third Missy? Really, I¡¯m fine!¡± Concubine Fang forced out a smile between her teeth.


    ¡°Missy, let this servant hold on to Concubine Fang instead!¡± Cai Yun hurriedly walked over and took over from Shi Lian. Like Shi Lian, she uttered apologies without stop.


    ¡°No need to rest! I¡¯ll head back now! I¡¯m really fine. Third Missy, do be careful next time, an ident mustn¡¯t be trifled with!¡± Concubine Fang¡¯s waist hurt faintly. Add that to her now dirty dress, how could she still meet with Sang Wan? She had no choice but to return first!


    ¡°It¡¯s great that Auntie Fang is fine! Thank you, Auntie Fang, for your reminder. I will be more careful next time!¡± Shi Lian quickly smiled and said.


    Concubine Fang went excitedly but had to return midway when a pail of cold water dampened it. The dismay and anger was just indescribable! Concubine Fang held onto Nanny Ying and left hurriedly.


    ¡°This Third Missy is so obedient in front of Mistress Wang, but how could she create such a scene behind her back! Seriously!¡± After going far, Nanny Yingined softly.


    ¡°Enough! We weren¡¯t careful ourselves! Don¡¯t speak such nonsense! Do we have the right to criticize them?¡± Although Concubine Fang rolled her eyes at Nanny Ying, she was also feeling angry as well.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Nanny Ying quickly answered and did not dare to make furtherments. She smiled and said, ¡°Lady Fang, does your waist still hurt? Should I call a doctor to have a look?¡±


    Concubine Fang creased her eyebrows and inhaled before she said snappily, ¡°Do you think this is already not embarrassing enough? Just have a servant quietly bring a bottle of ointment for the bruise will do!¡±


    Call the doctor? Calling the doctor would require informing Old Mistress. Old Mistress would definitely ask for the reason and if she knew about it, I will be a joke. Besides, it took much coaxing behind the back of Old Mistress for Old Master to let me step in; if Old Mistress catches wind of this and bes upset, she might stir up trouble for me! That would be worse!


    ¡°Understood, understood, this old servant was foolish!¡± Nanny Ying realized btedly and gently knocked at her head.


    ¡°Missy, is what they said true?¡± As they watched Concubine Fang and her servant walk away, Cai Yun asked Shi Lian softly.


    Shi Lian looked at her surroundings and whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s head back first!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡±


    The master and servant returned back to Fu Qu Lodge and closed the doors shut. Cai Yun said immediately, ¡°Missy, you have to think of a way! If not, someone else will steal the chance! We were lucky today to bump into them coincidentally and happen to hear about it, otherwise¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Enough, you don¡¯t have to tell me! Let me have some time alone!¡± Shi Lian nibbled at her lips and raised her hand as she sighed softly.


    Cai Yun studied her for a while and silently served a cup of tea before taking her leave.


    Shi Lian subconsciously pressed her hand at her chest as her heart was still pounding. After a moment, she finally let out a deep sigh and came to her senses.


    Shi Lian could not help but to feel indignant. Shi Rui was only eleven, yet Concubine Fang had harbored such a thought! Since Second Aunt Mi was not the one taking action, Concubine Fang must be behind this and convinced Second Uncle Shi about her n.


    After giving some thought, Shi Lian nibbled her lips again and decided to risk meeting with Sang Yufei. She called for Cai Yun and gave her instructions.


    Even though Sang Yufei was with Shi Fenghua daily, there was a spare moment when they would be apart after lunch. If Shi Lian wanted to meet him, that was the best moment to do so.


    After noon, the residence in every courtyard and quarters would be resting or having small chats. There would rarely be people shuttling between the quarters.


    Sang Yufei¡¯s guest room was situated in the outer courtyard. However, it was not strange for him to be within the inner courtyard as he would always be walking about in the garden during the day or resting in Shi Fenghua¡¯s side room.


    Sang Yufei arrived at a secluded corner of the garden as arranged. Shi Lian was already waiting anxiously there for him.


    ¡°Ah Lian! Did something happened?¡± Sang Yufei hurriedly asked.


    A few months earlier, Shi Lian went out of the household to offer her incense, and she met Sang Yufei who was travelling in the outskirts. They fell in love at first sight but they remained impassive as who knew whether they would meet again after bidding farewell? Thus, when Sang Yufei came for a visit, they surprisingly met again and found out that their families were actually inws! Their joy and surprise were indescribable and thought it was fate that they were destined by the heavens. If not, why would there be such a coincidence?


    Although Sang Yufei had be a top escorted examinee, he was still unaplished and was not confident enough to ask for her hand in marriage. However, he decided that next year, after passing and bing an official, he would officially send someone to send his proposal. Shi Lian was ted after hearing his words and restrained herself from appearing in front of him all these while to avoid anyplications. Of course, other than the asional nods and greetings when they met each other ¡°unintentionally¡±.


    Sang Yufei believed that if not for something extremely urgent, Shi Lian would never call him out privately. If this covet rtionship were exposed, the consequences would be unbearable for both of them.

 Chapter 134

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 134</h4>


    ¡°En!¡± Shi Lian could not hold herself back from confiding in her lover; skipping over the greeting, she hurriedly exined what she and Cai Yun had heard before asking helplessly, ¡°Yufei, what should we do about this? Even though Auntie Fang went back today, surely she would pay a visit to Sister-inw Sang Wan again tomorrow, or maybe even the day after tomorrow. If that happens¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Yufei was stunned momentarily and was a little dumbfounded. He had met Shi Rui at one of the feasts and she was still a little girl with a round face and two round hair buns on her head. Marrying a child for a wife, a shiver ran down his spine.


    ¡°Calm down a little. We¡¯ll think of a way together!¡± Although Sang Yufei was consoling her, he didn¡¯t have a solution either. However, the marriage proposal must not leave Concubine Fang¡¯s mouth.


    He was not afraid of refusing their proposal. After all, the age gap between Shi Rui and him was toorge, Shi Rui was still a little too young to be discussing about marriage. With just that reasoning, he would be able to refuse the marriage proposal easily. Even if Second Old Master Shi and Concubine Fang became unhappy about it, they could not be unreasonable. Ultimately, Shi Rui was too young and they could not force it upon him to wait for another three to four years!


    However, if he were to do so, his Sang family could not propose to Shi Lian on his behalf anymore else, wouldn¡¯t it be the same as pping Second Shi family¡¯s face? Wang Shi disliked inconvenience the most; she definitely wouldn¡¯t want to offend her brother-inw and her sister-inw. Moreover, Shi Lian was not her blood-rted daughter, why would she go through all that trouble for her?


    ¡°Concubine Fang will definitely mention it again, how can I not feel anxious!¡± Shi Lian was so worried that her tears almost fell. She spoke without hesitation but felt embarrassed soon after. Her face flushed red and she lowered her head, not knowing what to say anymore.


    ¡°You should head back first! Let me think through this slowly! You don¡¯t have to mind Concubine Fang and act ignorant. I will meet with my younger sisterter and talk to her about this.¡± Sang Yufei consoled her gently.


    Shi Lian no longer cared about acting restraint and asked Sang Yufei tearily, ¡°Have you thought of a solution?¡±


    Sang Yufei raised his brows and said, ¡°At most, I will just avoid this matter entirely. I¡¯ll leave the household and head for the capital tomorrow. When I leave, this matter will not be raised anymore. Sang Wan is my younger sister. A younger sister doesn¡¯t meddle in their older brother¡¯s marriage. It will be futile for them to mention it to Sang Wan!¡±


    Shi Lian felt relieved upon hearing him but felt a strong twinge of longing, ¡°You¡¯re leaving so soon?¡± Even though they did not get to meet everyday, but knowing that he lived in her household and that they were so close to one another, Shi Lian had been in a very good mood these few days! Now that he was leaving again so abruptly, she found it hard to ept.


    ¡°It is just a matter of time. Don¡¯t worry and head back quickly, don¡¯t let anyone see you!¡± Sang Yufei smiled and said.


    ¡°Then, please take care.¡± Shi Lian sighed and left hurriedly.


    Sang Yufei was deep in thought as he strolled in the flower garden with his hands behind his back. Not too long after, he changed the direction he was facing and headed towards Ning Garden.


    The day was short during winter. Sang Wan was resting her eyes in her chamber when she heard her second brother was visiting. She smiled and got up to wee him.


    They were close as siblings and they spoke in her chamber.


    ¡°Second Brother, is something the matter?¡± After the tea was served and the maidservants left, Sang Wan asked with a smile.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you have to help me this time!¡± Sang Yufei sipped a mouthful of tea before speaking to her about his problem. He did not mention Shi Lian and merely exined that he overheard one of Second Shi family¡¯s maidservants in the flower garden. Sang Yufei did not want anyone to know about his rtionship with Shi Lian as he did not wish for her to be looked down upon.


    ¡°This, this¡ª¡ª are you sure you didn¡¯t hear wrong?¡± Sang Wan widened her eyes in disbelief.


    Shi Rui? That yful, gluttonous, and cheerful little girl that was clearly still like a child, who would cry to look for her nanny when she fell down? Concubine Fang actually wants to marry her off to my second brother?


    In the future, I¡¯d have to greet her as ¡°Second Sister-inw¡±? Just thinking about it gave Sang Wan goosebumps and brought shivers down her spine.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear everything clearly, but I am almost a hundred percent sure about this.¡± Sang Yufei smiled bitterly, ¡°I think I will bid my farewells to Old Mistress now and leave for the capital tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a little too rushed!¡± Sang Wan sighed softly.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ve got to help me out, please!¡± Sang Yufei said and joked, ¡°Unless you want that little girl to be your sister-inw!¡±


    Sang Wanughed and reasoned, ¡°There¡¯s such a big difference between your age and hers, there wouldn¡¯t be any impact even if you reject them politely. Why do you have to ¡ª¡ªbut that¡¯s true, leaving earlier would be better!¡±


    Indeed, it will be awkward to stay in someone else¡¯s house after rejecting a marriage proposal that they had put forward. A lot of trouble could be saved if he left early.


    ¡°I had nned to leave in a few days anyway. It¡¯ll be easier to find lodgings if I head to the capital earlier.¡± Sang Yufei smiled.


    ¡°Second Brother¡¯s luggage and money¡ª¡ª have those been prepared already?¡± Sang Wan quickly asked. She had actually wanted to give her second brother more travel money, but recalling Shi Yumei¡¯s words, she held back her words. She did not want to scrounge and take advantage on the Shi family¡¯s wealth anymore!


    However, Sang Yufei was afraid that she would say that. He smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Big Brother and Big Sister-inw have already prepared everything for me! I brought three hundred silvers; although the things in the capital are pricier, the money should be enough! You don¡¯t have to worry about me!¡± Sang Yufei sighed softly, ¡°As your older brother, I should be the one taking care of you. Instead, you are always taking care of me. And brother-inw too; he has done so much for the family! My good sister, you don¡¯t have to prepare anything for me this time. If you do, my heart will feel uneasy!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother, then you have to take care of yourself on your journey. I will wait for your good news and your proud return!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded. At the thought that her words might give her second brother too much pressure, she smiled again and said, ¡°But no matter what, the most important thing is to be safe! Second Brother, don¡¯t let us wait too long for your return; you¡¯ve toe back early!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! I will! Take care of yourself too!¡± Sang Yufei smiled.


    The siblings chatted for a while more before bidding each other farewell. When it was about time, Sang Yufei went over to inform Shi Fenghua. Although Shi Fenghua was caught by surprise, he did not stop Sang Yufei since his mind was already made up. He bade farewell to him as well. After that, Sang Wan apanied him to bid his farewells to Wang Shi. Wang Shi asked him to stay for a while more, but seeing how he insisted, she sighed and said, ¡°Second Young Master Sang, you are right. The earlier you enter the capital, the earlier you can calm your heart. I will not try to hold you back then! Second Young Master Sang, please take care of yourself on your journey there! Our Shi family has many shops along the river in different towns. Zhan Huan knows very well about it. If you have any trouble, just look for the people from our shops! There¡¯s no need to be too polite about it!¡±


    Sang Yufei quickly gave his thanks.


    Wang Shi then ordered for a ceremony to be organized to see him off, but he refused insistently. He mentioned that he had troubled the Shi family enough the past few days, thus he felt uneasy and did not wish to receive any more favors. Wang Shi could only concede.


    At night, Sang Wan asked Liu Ya to send two newly-made coats to him and notify him that two notes worth fifty silvers were hidden between the seams in the coats for emergency use.


    Sang Yufei felt touched. After all, only family would go out of their way for him! If he didn¡¯t pass, how could he face his siblings and sister-inw who had invested so much in him? Sang Yufei¡¯s heart tightened.


    On the next day, Shi Fengju and Shi Fenghua went to see Sang Yufei off at the harbour personally. Sang Wan and Wang Shi said their farewells at the doorstep, but it was not appropriate for Shi Lian to do so. She could only paced about uneasily in her own chamber and when she heard from Cai Yun about his departure, she sat down listlessly.


    It was already toote for Concubine Fang to feel regretful when she heard about Sang Yufei¡¯s departure. ¡°Why did he leave so suddenly? Aiya, really, Nanny Ying! Why didn¡¯t you find out when Second Young Master Sang is leaving. If I knew he would be leaving today, even if I had to crawl, I would have crawled all the way to Ning Garden to pay the first family¡¯s young mistress a visit!¡±


    Who would have known? Even you didn¡¯t think of it yourself! Nanny Ying thought.


    ¡°Lady Fang, even though Second Young Master Sang has left, Young Mistress is still here. First Young Master Sang and his wife are also still around! You can talk to Young Mistress about this and let her discuss it with First Young Master Sang to arrange the marriage first. Won¡¯t it be the same? They say the oldest brother is like the father, and the first sister-inw is like the mother. Even if Second Young Master Sang were to be an official, he still had to listen to them!¡±


    That was really that case! Sang Hong¡¯s honest face shed past Concubine Fang¡¯s mind, and she became more certain. She smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right! This matter should be decided by them and not Second Young Master Sang in the first ce!¡±


    First Young Master Sang is such a naive person, why wouldn¡¯t he agree?


    Concubine Fang¡¯s vigor returned and after two days of nursing her waist injury, she brought Nanny Ying along and requested to meet Sang Wan again in Ning Garden.


    Upon hearing the request, Sang Wan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She wanted to avoid meeting with her, but she was already at her doorstep; there was no way she could reject without a proper excuse. After all, she had to give some face to Second Old Master Shi. As such, she could only invite her in.


    ¡°Lady Fang, why have youe? You are a rare guest, please, quicklye in and take a seat!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°You came just in time, I have a painting that I could not seem to put a finger on what¡¯s missing. It is just the right timing for me to ask for your advice!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, Young Mistress, you are too polite!¡± Concubine Fang was famous for being skillful. She received the painting and pointed out with a smile, ¡°This painting is indeed beautiful. However, the leaves are drawn too far apart, just a slight tweak will do!¡± After asking for permission, Concubine Fang took a brush from Liu Ya and added a few strokes. Indeed, the painting became more refined.


    ¡°Lady Fang is indeed skillful!¡± Sang Wan smiled andplemented her.


    ¡°Hehe, this is nothing! This is but a pastime. When you practice long enough, it¡¯lle naturally to you!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true. I think it really depends on one¡¯s talent and perception! Some can master it quickly with little guidance, and some may never reach Lady Fang¡¯s level in their entire lifetime!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress, you really have a way with words! You are making me feel embarrassed now!¡±


    Everyoneughed.


    Nanny Ying went on and said with a smile, ¡°I have always heard that Young Mistress is kind in her ways with people. It is us servants¡¯ blessing to have you as our young mistress in this household! Talking about painting, our Lady Fang isn¡¯t the best. Our fifth missy, although young, is very talented!¡±


    Concubine Fang¡¯s eyes glistened and she secretlyuded Nanny Ying¡¯s tactfulness before smiling politely. Just when she was about to follow up to bring in her daughter as the topic, Sang Wan casually spoke, ¡°Is that so? I suppose the Shi household is gifted in developing talents. The few missies in the household are adept in sewing, at least better than me! I¡¯m actually bad at it, even my maidservant is better than me at it! Sang Wan smiled and pointed at Liu Ya.

 Chapter 135

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 135</h4>


    Liu Ya smiled, ¡°That¡¯s only because Young Mistress didn¡¯t put your heart into doing this craft. Young Mistress may be even better than me if you tried!¡±


    ¡°Just listen to those sweet words of yours. Enough chatting, go and brew a cup of high quality Da Hong Pao for Lady Fang now, will you?¡± Sang Wan jokingly scolded Liu Ya before smiling at Concubine Fang, ¡°I don¡¯t know what tea Lady Fang usually drinks, but this Da Hong Pao is newly acquired this year. I have not drunk it much myself, and I don¡¯t know if it will be to your liking!¡±


    ¡°This concubine isn¡¯t particr about such things, anything is fine! That tea must¡¯ve been expensive!¡± Concubine Fang had no choice but to smile and answer.


    ¡°Lady Fang, you¡¯re too polite! This tea, is it not made to be drank by people? Let¡¯s not talk about whether it¡¯s expensive or not!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Liu Ya served the tea to Concubine Fang. Sang Wan smiled, ¡°Lady Fang, quickly, have a taste. How does it taste?¡±


    Seeing the eagerness on Sang Wan¡¯s face, Concubine Fang took two sips and smiled. She knew nothing about tea, and even if the tea was good, she wouldn¡¯t be able to tell. However, she had to give Sang Wan face and acted as if she was tasting it carefully. She squinted her eyes before squeezing apliment, ¡°It is indeed a very good tea! It smells even better than the ones I normally drink!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good if Lady Fang thinks so too!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°This tea¡¯s aroma is really strong, and it has a rich taste! I think it¡¯s quite good too! If Lady Fang likes it, take some back with youter! I don¡¯t have much, so I hope Lady Fang wouldn¡¯t mind!¡±


    Concubine Fang was surprised by her good treatment and she hurriedly smiled, ¡°Aiya, that¡¯s very kind of you! This concubine will give my thanks to Young Mistress!¡±


    ¡°Haha, Lady Fang, you don¡¯t have to be too polite!¡± Sang Wan smiled and continued talking about the art of tea and its culture. Even though there were times when Concubine Fang wanted to cut in, she could not find the right timing at all and could only hold herself back.


    Just as she was thinking about how she could cut in appropriately, Zhide rushed in from outside and whispered softly into Sang Wan¡¯s ear.


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed slightly. She creased her eyebrows and said, ¡°I understand. Have them wait awhile, I will head over in a moment! I am not free right now, so tell them to calm down first!¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Zhide bowed and smiled, ¡°Then this servant will tell them first. It¡¯s just that, those head servants and nannies are impatient, so this servant may not hold out for long. Please head over there quickly, Young Mistress!¡±


    ¡°Alright, I got it!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Upon hearing this, Concubine Fang did not dare to prolong her stay. She could only get up and smile,¡±Young Mistress, we¡¯ll take our leave first. This concubine does not dare to take up your precious time when you¡¯re busy!¡±


    Sang Wan pretended to want them to remain but smiled soon after and said, ¡°I really have some matters to take care of. Then, I will not ask Lady Fang to stay! Lady Fang, pleasee over and visit whenever you¡¯re free! Hong Ye, please see Lady Fang and Nanny Ying off!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mistress!¡± Hong Ye invited them out with a gesture, ¡°Lady Fang and Nanny Ying, please!¡±


    ¡°Then this concubine shall take my leave now!¡±


    ¡°This old servant shall also take my leave now!¡±


    Concubine Fang and Nanny Ying could only smile as they took their leave. Liu Ya did not forget to put some Da Hong Pao tea leaves into a small can and give it to them. Nanny Ying smiled and received it, ¡°Sorry for the trouble!¡±


    ¡°No wonder everyone in the household says that Young Mistress is kind and treats people well. They really aren¡¯t wrong! If the young mistress were someone else, she wouldn¡¯t have been so courteous!¡± Nanny Ying smiled and said to Concubine Fang.


    Concubine Fang immediately thought of Gu Fangzi and nodded, ¡°You¡¯re right, Young Mistress is really kind-hearted. If it were someone else, she would have already given us the air! She wouldn¡¯t have invited us to sit or gift us tea leaves!¡± But Concubine Fang sighed again depressingly, ¡°Just that the words I wanted to say weren¡¯t said!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nothing!¡± Nanny Ying smiled and said, ¡°We can always go again tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Concubine Fang red at her, ¡°We¡¯ll have to wait a few days more. How can we still go again tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Why not? Didn¡¯t Young Mistress say Lady Fang could visit her whenever you¡¯re free? This old servant doesn¡¯t think she was just being polite!¡± Nanny Ying said without concern.


    Concubine Fang rolled her eyes at Nanny Ying but could not be bothered to exin to her, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t understand even if I exined to you!¡±


    She was the concubine of the old master in the Second Shi family, while the young mistress was the eldest daughter-inw of the First Shi family. Now that she was also in-charge of managing the household, as a concubine who belonged to the Second Shi family, how could she go over to Young Mistress ce every two or three days? What would that imply? In addition, she had received a gift from them; if she were to return tomorrow, what would the servants at the side say about her?


    Furthermore, if she went too often, Second Old Mistress Mi might get suspicious and question her, how would she answer her? If she found out that a concubine by-passed her authority to arrange fifth missy¡¯s marriage, things would get troublesome! Concubine Fang made a resolve. It seems like these few days, even if she had to be thick-skinned, she would have to find a way to go to Ning Garden again. Before Second Old Mistress Mi found about her actions, she would have to settle it, otherwise¡ª¡ª


    Who knew that Concubine Fang still underestimated the amount of concern Second Old Mistress Mi had for Second Old Master Shi¡¯s concubines. After Concubine Fang and Nanny Ying returned from Sang Wan¡¯s ce, Second Old Mistress Mi had already sent head maidservant Xiao Shuang to invite her to have a word even before they had the time to settle down for tea.


    Concubine Fang¡¯s heart tightened and she quickly invited Xiao Shuang in for tea first. She smiled and asked, ¡°Xiao Shuang, do you know why Old Mistress is calling for me?¡±


    There was no way Xiao Shuang would expose anything to her, and she rejected the tea. She smiled and said, ¡°This servant was only tasked with passing the word and does not know the reason why Second Old Mistress is looking for Lady Fang! Lady Fang, Second Old Mistress is waiting, pleasee with this servant!¡±


    ¡°Alright, but let me clean my hands first. Xiao Shuang, why don¡¯t you take a seat for a moment and wait a while for me, just a while!¡± Concubine Fang quickly smiled and had someone take care of Xiao Shuang while she cleaned her hands uneasily. Her heart was pounding unceasingly.


    Over at Mi Shi¡¯s ce, Mi Shi did not waste any time to riddle her and asked directly, ¡°I heard that you went to Ning Garden?¡±


    Concubine Fang¡¯s heart jumped and she hurriedly nodded, ¡°Yes. But this concubine did not go there on purpose. This concubine was only feeling a little thirsty during a stroll in the flower garden and decided to get a cup of tea to quench the thirst when this concubine happen to walk by Ning Garden. At first, this concubine only wanted to let the maidservants pour me a cup and leave right after, but who knew that Young Mistress was present so this concubine ended up going to greet Young Mistress! Young Mistress even gave me a small can of tea leaves!¡±


    ¡°Oh, so that¡¯s why!¡± Mi Shi had some prejudice against Sang Wan and was not very willing to let the members on her side of the family associate themselves with Sang Wan. And so she said, ¡°Pay more attention next time. Don¡¯t roam about recklessly! There are some ces that are not for you to go, lest others gossip about it. Do you hear me?¡±


    ¡°Clearly. This concubine willply!¡± Concubine Fang was secretly relieved and she quickly replied submissively.


    ¡°Good!¡± Mi Shi nodded satisfactorily before waving her hand and saying, ¡°Remember it! Don¡¯t be like Concubine Shui and disobey me behind my back. You may leave!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Second Old Mistress! This concubine will never dare to disobey Second Old Mistress¡¯s words! Then this concubine will be leaving now!¡± Concubine Fang bowed and left respectfully.


    At the door, Concubine Fang and Nanny Ying looked at each other fearfully. Both of them were frightened out of their wits; it seemed Ning Garden was now temporarily barred for them! They could only wait for another opportunity to meet and discuss with Young Mistress.


    ¡°Lady Fang, let¡¯s not be anxious. There¡¯s still time! We can slowly n and prepare ourselves first!¡± Nanny Ying consoled.


    ¡°You are right!¡± Concubine Fang nodded her head. Feeling indignant, she nibbled on her lips as she wondered who the spy for Second Old Mistress was; the news was quick to arrive at her ear!


    Concubine Fang sighed to herself. But it was only just a sigh; she did not have any intention to investigate further. The reason being that even if she knew who the spy was, there was nothing she could do! Second Old Mistress Mi was the wife, and she was but a concubine. It was only right for Second Old Mistress Mi to have eyes on the concubines to know all their actions and to manage them. That was only natural; there was no way she could go against Second Old Mistress Mi!


    Constrained by her status, she felt especially resentful towards it. No matter how she tried to obtain the love and attention of Second Old Master Shi, nothing would change!


    She had no hope left for herself, but she could not allow her daughter¡¯s life to be as grey as hers. She had to fight for her! Even if she had to give it her all! Only when her daughter livedfortably then she would too!


    Back at Ning Garden, seeing that Concubine Fang had finally left, Sang Wan was secretly relieved. She believed that Concubine Fang could not possiblye again in the next two or three days. At least, for now, she had handled the situation well. If Concubine Fang were toe again, at the most she would use the same tactic again. No matter what, she had to prevent Concubine Fang from speaking about the proposal because if she were to rejected, it would surely hurt Concubine Fang¡¯s dignity, and even the Shi Second family¡¯s dignity!


    In the blink of an eye, November came. The weather got colder and the atmosphere of the young master and young mistress in Ning Garden remained lukewarm.


    Sang Wan was determined this time. In front of Shi Fengju, she regarded herself as someone who served him, cared for his needs, and every other aspect. However, everyone could tell that something was off about her, including Shi Fengju.


    At first, Shi Fengju thought that the resentment she harbored would be dispelled after a few days. But who knew that, after seven or eight days, Sang Wan still treated him with a respectful distance.


    Shi Fengju began to feel ufortable and uneasy. He felt concerned and started to initiate a conversation every now and then, with some caution. However, Sang Wan did not warm herself up to him at all. Even though she was still gentle, answering him with patience and kindness, she never said more than she should; there were no emotions in her eyes. Shi Fengju did not know what to do and it was the first time he felt powerless.


    ¡°Sang Wan, if you have nothing to do tomorrow, why don¡¯t we have a walk on the streets? Our family¡¯s tailor shop just imported a new batch of leather and fur. They¡¯re best used to make coats. I will go with you to pick a few, okay?¡± That evening when Shi Fengju returned, he asked Sang Wan with a smile on his face.


    Without a change in expression, Sang Wan lowered her gaze to not look at him in the eyes before saying indifferently, ¡°Thank you for your kind offer! A few days ago, the household has already ordered this year¡¯s coats so the trip would be unnecessary! Even if Sang Wan has nothing to do, Sang Wan does not want to go out in this cold weather. Why don¡¯t you ask your sister? Maybe she will want to go.¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression immediately darkened. There she went again!


    ¡°What do you want? Do you really have to talk to me in this way?¡± Shi Fengju asked unhappily.


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyshes fluttered a few times and raised her eyes slowly. Her eyes remained as calm as still water when she gave a nce at Shi Fengju before she asked politely with a gentle voice, ¡°Lord, what do you mean? Forgive Sang Wan for not understanding what you mean! If Sang Wan is not doing anything right, please tell me, and I will change!¡±

 Chapter 136

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 136</h4>


    At that moment, a maidservant served the tea. Sang Wan personally took the cup and served it to Shi Fengju, ¡°Lord, this is your favorite Longjing tea picked before Grain Rain. Please have it!¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± All the anger in Shi Fengju came up at once and he waved his hand furiously, unintentionally toppling the cup. Sang Wan did not let go of the cup in time and the boiling hot tea scalded her hand. She cried out in pain as the back of her left hand, as well as her delicate fingers, turned red in that moment.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± All the maidservants eximed and hurried forward to hold her.


    Shi Fengju was also taken aback. Looking at the scald on Sang Wan¡¯s hand and her trembling figure, his heart ached. He hurriedly went over to her and held her hand, ¡°Is it painful! Hurry up and bring the ointment, what are you still standing there for!¡±


    Zhide was quick to react and she went into the chamber to bring the ointment. Nanny Li ordered the servants to fetch cold water and a towel while Liu Ya held onto Sang Wan in distress. She could not help but give Shi Fengju a silent re.


    ¡°Sang Wan, I¡ª¡ª¡± Shi Fengju wanted to apologize, the words would not leave his mouth. He gently held her hand, ¡°Is it very painful? This is all my fault!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine! Just applying some ointment on it will do,¡± Sang Wan gently pulled her hand away and forced a smile, ¡°Sang Wan wasn¡¯t careful, it isn¡¯t your fault! Hong Ye, pour another cup of tea for Lord. Lord, please have a seat first, I¡¯ll go and apply the ointment.¡± After she finished, she went into another room with Liu Ya. Zhide took the ointment and followed a few of the maidservants as they went into the room with Sang Wan.


    Shi Fengju closed his eyes; his face was stiff and he was feeling both apologetic and furious at the same time! It must have been so painful that her eyes became red and her face turned pale, but she still remained lukewarm! Just what is she trying to aplish!


    ¡°Master, please have some tea...¡± Sensing danger, Hong Ye held the tray and served the tea timidly.


    Shi Fenju stood up abruptly and coldly ordered, ¡°Get out!¡±


    Hong Ye received a shock and stepped aside frantically. She did not dare to let out a sound, same for the rest of the servants.


    Shi Fengju pulled away the curtains forcefully and went into the room. Nanny Li was instructing Liu Ya to use a wet towel to wipe Sang Wan¡¯s hand. The ointment had yet to be applied and was ced on a table.


    ¡°All of you, get out now!¡± Shi Fengju said coldly.


    Everyone was momentarily stunned as they looked between Shi Fengju and Sang Wan, not knowing what to do.


    ¡°Young Master¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Nanny Li was cut off by Shi Fengju just when she was about to speak, ¡°All of you, leave now!¡±


    ¡°But the ointment has not been applied to Young Mistress¡¯ hand yet! The servants will leave once this old servant has applied the ointment,¡± Nanny Li smiled and said.


    ¡°I said, leave!¡± Shi Fengju showed no signs of giving in.


    ¡°All of you, please go out first! It isn¡¯t painful anymore, please leave now!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said.


    The crowd did not have a choice but to leave all at once.


    What is this couple quarrelling about again! Nanny Li could not hold herself back from ncing at Sang Wan worriedly. Once she had left the chamber, she chased all the younger maid servants away from the chamber. Only Liu Ya, Zhide, and herself stood outside the chamber. If something were to happen inside, they could rush in in time to intervene.


    Shi Fengju sat down in front of Sang Wan with a cold expression on his face as he pulled her injured hand towards him. There were blisters on her thin fingers and some of her skin at the back of her hand had peeled off. Her hands were delicate, and the pink skin of her injured hand made her look even more pitiful.


    Sang Wan struggled to no avail and she lowered her head as he held onto her hand.


    ¡°Is it painful?¡± Shi Fengju asked gently.


    How can it not be? If it isn¡¯t, why don¡¯t you try it yourself! She could still feel the prickling pain that came and went, how could it not be painful?


    From the way he treated her in front of Ning Garden¡¯s servants, it wasn¡¯t just her hand that was hurt! The Mistress had be a joke this time!


    All the indignance in her heart suddenly gushed up. Instantly, her eyes were covered with tears but she kept her head down without speaking.


    Shi Fengju sighed softly, ¡°I really didn¡¯t mean it. You too, why weren¡¯t you quick to dodge?¡± Shi Fengju scooped a small amount of smooth white ointment with his fingers and gently applied it at the back of her hand. Using his finger, he caressed it, ¡°I will do it carefully. Tell me if it is too painful.¡±


    Sang Wan still remained silent as she let him apply the ointment. The cooling sensation spread across the back of her hand and took away the scorching pain. Sang Wan could not help but to feel more rxed.


    Shi Fengju sensed that and smiled, ¡°This burn isn¡¯t too serious. Apply it another night and it should be healed after two days.¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, can¡¯t you speak to me?¡± Shi Fengju smiled bitterly, not knowing what to do.


    ¡°Thank you, Lord!¡± Sang Wan retracted her hand and said, ¡°This is only a small ident. I don¡¯t me you, so you don¡¯t have to feel bad or even me yourself for this.¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression darkened again and he grabbed her wrist as he spoke, ¡°Sang Wan, how long are you going to continue sulking? What can I do to make you less angry?¡±


    Sang Wan raised her head, looked at Shi Fengju calmly and smiled, ¡°Lord, you¡¯re thinking too much. Why would Sang Wan be angry with Lord!¡±


    When met with an indifferent answer again, he stared at her, exasperated to the point of silence. His breathing became harder and he spoke after a moment, ¡°You are still angry with me, aren¡¯t you? You want my big sister to apologize to you and only then you would be satisfied, am I right? I told you before, you are Shi family¡¯s Mistress. You will have to face this asionally and sometimes misunderstandings cannot be avoided. Why do you have to harp on this? My older sister isn¡¯t someone with an evil heart. She is quite pitiful too. Why can¡¯t you let it go this time? Besides, my mother has taught her a lesson; she hasn¡¯t been finding trouble for you these days, has she? How long more do you want to remain angry!¡±


    That¡¯s easy for you to say! Have I not give in enough? What happened in the end? Her p almostnded on my face! I would have borne with it if it was only about me, but why did she have to talk about my second brother too? Your mother taught her a lesson? Don¡¯t joke with me! Will your mother have the heart to do that? Will she even listen! It is more convincing to say that it was my rudeness towards her that made her more restrained!


    ¡°I am not angry with Lord, or angry with anyone,¡± Sang Wan said lightly. ¡°Because there will be no use even if I me anyone. Doing that will only mean finding trouble for myself! After all, why would I? Besides, there is also no point in that! I¡¯m sure Lord still remembers our promise, right? It won¡¯t be long before I will have to leave the Shi household, why should we bicker over something this small?¡±


    ¡°What did you say!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart throbbed as if he was dealt with a sudden blow and the pain was excruciating! She said that it would not be long before she leaves!


    ¡°You always remembered it? And because of that, you,¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s face turned as cold as steel and uttered each word slowly, ¡°That¡¯s why you have been lukewarm towards me?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me Lord has already forgotten about it?¡± Sang Wan looked straight at him, ¡°If I leave, everyone will be happy. All the problems will disappear. Isn¡¯t this the oue Lord has always wished for? I think that I¡¯ve fulfilled my duty as a wife, and have taken care of Lord to the best of my ability. Lord¡¯s judgement is not very fair for me!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, you are good! You are good! You are very good at stabbing people¡¯s hearts with a knife! Never had I thought!¡± Shi Fengju was so angry that he was out of words. He red at her squarely and said, ¡°Sang Wan, let me warn you. Just with that sentence, I will not let you leave this ce! I¡¯d like to see what you can do about it!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression sank immediately and she shook her head, ¡°No! You have always fulfilled your promises and meant every word you say, you won¡¯t go back on your words!¡±


    Shi Fengju saw how her expression changed immediately after hearing that she couldn¡¯t leave anymore and felt even more infuriated. Heughed coldly and said, ¡°Then I¡¯m going to go back on my words, what can you do? If I don¡¯t admit this, then it never happened! Sang Wan, don¡¯t you say?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Sang Wan was feeling both angry and anxious, but there was nothing she could do. He was right, their promise was only between them. If he did not want to acknowledge their promise, then it meant that their promise was for naught! There was nothing she could do about it!


    ¡°I? What?¡± Shi Fengju looked at her cruelly and said with deep animosity, ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to fulfill a wife¡¯s duty? Then, I think you have not fulfilled a wife¡¯s biggest responsibility! You think you can leave so easily after entering my family¡¯s doorstep? Sang Wan, you are looking down on me, Shi Fengju!¡±


    Shi Fengju abruptly pushed her on the bed and leaned towards her. Looking straight at her, he said coldly, ¡°Give birth to my son; after you do, I won¡¯t stop you from leaving! But right now, don¡¯t even think about it!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve gone mad! Let go of me!¡± Sang Wan had never seen this side of Shi Fengju and her face turned pale white, her eyes were full of fear.


    Shi Fengjuughed coldly and lowered his head to force a kiss.


    ¡°No!¡± Sang Wan was so shocked that she started struggling. She avoided his kiss, pushing and punching frantically with both her hands to get him off her.


    Shi Fengju had already lost all his senses to his anger. The more she avoided, the angrier he got. The hand that was blocking him, he grabbed it forcefully and pressed it down on his body. Never did he expect that the hand he had grabbed was her injured hand and the blisters on her fingers immediately burst open. Feeling as her peeled skin at the back of her hand was tearing away, together with the unbearable shame and humiliation, her tears flowed from her eyes and she started sobbing uncontrobly.


    ¡°Hand, my hand!¡± Sang Wan was feeling humiliated, angry, and in pain. She wished she could find a hole to hide into.


    Shi Fengju came to his senses all of a sudden and he frantically let go of her.


    ¡°Sang Wan! I¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan rolled to the side and used the back of her other hand to give Shi Fengju¡¯s face a p full of resentment, ¡°Leave, leave now! I don¡¯t want to see you again!¡±


    Shi Fengju was stunned. Seeing how Sang Wan¡¯s hair was in a mess, her face flushed with anger, shame, and wet with tears, her hand in an even more terrible state, Shi Fengju felt extremely regretful and he stomped his foot. He turned away and barged out of the chamber.


    How could Nanny Li and the maidservants not hear themotion inside the chamber? Hearing how Sang Wan was crying and shouting, Liu Ya¡¯s heart wrenched and she almost barged into chamber. However, she was stopped by Nanny Li¡¯s re. At that moment, they saw Shi Family¡¯s Eldest Young Master leave Ning Garden hastily without a word. Everyone was stunned but did not have the time to care about him as they rushed into the chamber.


    ¡°Young Mistress! Are you alright!¡± Seeing Sang Wan¡¯s dishevelled self, everyone was in a huge state of shock. Nanny Li was the first to hurry forward and cry out loud first, ¡°What exactly happened here!¡±


    ¡°Nanny!¡± Sang Wan cried in Nanny Li¡¯s embrace, her tears could not stop flowing from her eyes.


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 Chapter 137

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 137</h4>


    ¡°Ma¡¯am! Ma¡¯am!¡± Sang Wan stumped Nanny Li. Seeing Sang Wan clinging onto her, she could not bear to push her away, and her heart softened. She patted Sang Wan gently on her back while hugging her and said, ¡°Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry anymore! Just what on earth happened? Tell me slowly, please don¡¯t cry!¡±


    Whileforting Sang Wan, Nanny Li prompted Liu Ya and the rest with her eyes to have them leave. Liu Ya was not happy as well; she was certain that it was her young master who bullied her Ma¡¯am. Feeling furious, she stood there nkly without moving. In the end, Zhide had to drag her out, ¡°Us servants will go and get water!!¡±


    Nanny Li looked at Zhide approvingly before gesturing to them to bete when returningter. She then went on tofort Sang Wan.


    After a long while, Sang Wan finally stopped crying. The shame and anger shown on her face slowly eased. She let go of Nanny Li and took out her handkerchief to wipe off her tears before forcing a smile, saying, ¡°I apologize for losing my cool and letting Nanny see such a scene!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am...¡± Nanny Li didn¡¯t know what to say. After helping Sang Wan tidy up her hair and wrinkled clothes, she told her gently, ¡°No matter what, you and Sir are a married couple, why be angry when you could talk things out! Now that things have became like this, don¡¯t you feel bad too? Ma¡¯am you were always so forgiving and gentle, but today...¡±


    Just from the thought of what happened just now, Sang Wan did not want it mentioned again, and said, ¡°It was me who couldn¡¯t control myself and said something that angered Sir, I know! You don¡¯t have to worry, this won¡¯t happen again!¡±


    Sang Wan felt the burning pain on her hand and couldn¡¯t help but take a deep breath.


    Of course, Nanny Li could tell she wasn¡¯t telling the truth, but it was not appropriate for her to ask any further. When Nanny Li saw Sang Wan¡¯s hand, she received a shock, ¡°My goodness, how did this happen!¡± Hurriedly, she took an ointment and helped Sang Wan apply it carefully.


    ¡°Hurry in with the water and serve Ma¡¯am!¡± Nanny Li yelled loudly. Zhide and Liu Ya then opened the curtain and entered.


    Seeing that Zhide and Liu Ya were enough to serve Sang Wan, Nanny Li quietly left, andmanded the servants with a strict face, ¡°If what happened today leaks out, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless when I find out who that is! All of you better watch your mouths! Say only words that you should and quickly forget everything that you should!¡±


    The servants were terrified and quickly nodded their heads.


    ¡°Nanny, it¡¯s dinner time now, how...¡± Hong Ye whispered quietly.


    ¡°What dinner!¡± Nanny Li red at Hong Ye and sighed. After a short while of silence, she said, ¡°Quickly go and find out where Sir is right now and invite him back for dinner! As for the food, have the kitchen keep them warm first!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Nanny!¡± After receiving the instructions, Hong Ye felt relieved and ran off hurriedly.


    As Nanny Li returned to the chamber, she saw that Sang Wan had changed her clothes, washed her face, andbed her hair. She went towards Sang Wan with a smile and said warmly, ¡°It¡¯s getting dark outside, Ma¡¯am, are you hungry? I¡¯ve send someone to invite Sir back for dinner. We¡¯ll serve the food in a moment!¡±


    The moment Shi Fengju was mentioned, Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed and she said with a frown, ¡°I don¡¯t have an appetite now and would like to get some rest; serving Sir during his dinner will be enough. All of you, leave now, and tell the others not to disturb me! Now!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, you didn¡¯t have much for lunch today. It¡¯ll be best to at leaste and have a little something!¡± Nanny Li gently tried to persuade her.


    Sang Wan waved, ¡°I really don¡¯t have the appetite for dinner. Leave now. All of you! I want to have a quiet moment alone!¡±


    Without a choice, Nanny Li and the rest could only leave.


    Liu Ya¡¯s face was full of worry and she seemed as if she had something to say. Sang Wan forced at smile at her, ¡°You should leave as well! Do whatever you have to, I just need some rest.¡±


    ¡°Then, please have a good rest! We will ensure that no onees to disturb you! When you¡¯re hungry, just call for this servant and I¡¯ll ask the kitchen to prepare the food for you!¡± Liu Ya said crisply; she was on full alert. Nanny Li found it annoying and funny at the same time and she chided, ¡°Enough, get out now!¡±


    That made Sang Wanugh.


    After a short while, Hong Ye returned and reported, ¡°Nanny, Sir is in the study room. He ordered to be disturbed only if there¡¯s something important, and said that he¡¯s not hungry so he won¡¯t being back for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Why is this couple like this...¡± Nanny Li sighed and went to the kitchen to check on tonight¡¯s dinner. She asked the servants to use food boxes, which had hot water to keep their contents warm, to hold a bowl of braised pork, a bowl of Yan Du Xian, a bowl of minced chicken with smooth beancurd, a bowl of steamed egg, and a huge bowl of rice before having Liu Ya send it to Shi Fengju. Nanny Li then instructed for the te of boneless fish, stir-fried rabbit meat with ginger, fried beancurd and another bowl of Yan Du Xian to be kept warm in the kitchen and taken out whenever Sang Wan had the appetite.


    The reason why Nanny Li sent Liu Ya was because Liu Ya was Shi Fengju¡¯s closest maidservant, she was also Sang Wan¡¯s servant who had followed her from her parental house. Nanny Li carried a slight hope for Shi Fengju to think about Sang Wan when he saw Liu Ya and woulde back for dinner. However, after Liu Ya saw her ma¡¯am getting badly ¡°bullied¡±, she became vexed; how would she still have the heart to send the food to Shi Fengju?


    However, she did not dare to disobey her godmother, so she received the box reluctantly and had another servant carry it. Not long after they left Ning Garden, she stopped and told the servant, ¡°I have something urgent to settle so you¡¯ll have to send this yourself! Just pass it to Zhan Huan when you¡¯re there. Remember, leave immediately once you¡¯ve handed it over and don¡¯t you dare to say anything unnecessary, do you understand?¡±


    The servant wouldn¡¯t dare disobey Liu Ya¡¯s instructions, would she? Moreover, sending food to the young master of the Shi family all by herself was an honorable task; she suddenly felt that she was ying a pivotal role, so she answered happily and hurriedly carried the box over.


    Just as Liu Ya had instructed, the servant handed the food box over to Zhan Huan and immediately turned to leave after saying she was delivering food to Shi Fengju.


    However, after seeing Shi Fengju¡¯s terribly dark expression, with a red mark on one of his cheeks that looked like a palm print from a p, there was no way Zhan Huan would dare to enter the study room. And so, Zhan Huan pulled the servant back and said, ¡°Sister, since you are delivering food to Sir, it¡¯d be best for you to bring it in!¡±


    Normally, the servant would be more than willing to show her face in front of the young master, but Liu Ya had clearly instructed her to pass the food over to Zhan Huan, there was no way she would dare to disobey. Especially knowing Liu Ya had a bad temper, it would be terrible if she pissed Liu Ya off. Moreover, the atmosphere today was weird, anyone who wasn¡¯t a fool would have felt it; who would be silly enough to mess around?


    ¡°I still have something else to do so it would be best if you could pass it over to the young master!¡± The servant turned and ran away immediately after she finished her sentence.


    Zhan Huan could only resign himself. Worried that the food would be cold if he tarried, he sighed before knocking on the door and going in reluctantly.


    ¡°Sir, Ma¡¯am has instructed a servant to send you your dinner! Should I serve it onto the table for you now?¡± Zhan Huan quickly said before Shi Fengju could open his mouth to chase him out.


    As expected, Shi Fengju held back his words to chase Zhan Huan out, and said tly, ¡°Ma¡¯am instructed someone to send the food? Where is this servant now?¡±


    ¡°...She said she was busy. She has already gone back now.¡± Zhan Huan said with a smile.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s face turned darker immediately after he heard Zhan Huan¡¯s words, and asked again, ¡°Who delivered it?¡±


    Zhan Huan wanted to p his own head in regret for not asking the servant to stay. This Sir of his too; in any case, it was Ma¡¯am who had someone sent the food over, so why would the servant delivering it matter?


    ¡°It was an unfamiliar face, I...I don¡¯t know her!¡±


    Shi Fengju hummed coldly, ¡°I¡¯m not hungry, bring it out!¡±


    He was right, Sang Wan must be hating on him at this moment, why would she still send food over? That servant definitely wasn¡¯t sent by her! Otherwise, there was no way she would casually send ass to run off after passing the food to Zhan Huan!


    ¡°Sir, please at least have some! After all, these were sent by Ma¡¯am¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Get out!¡± Shi Fengju narrowed his eyes as he red at Zhan Huan.


    Zhan Huan pulled back in shock. ¡°Yes, yes, this servant will leave now!¡± He answered and hurriedly left.


    Shi Fengju raised up his hand and subconsciously rubbed his face as he closed his eyes. Even he did not know what he should do; he felt confused and upset.


    Shi Fengju did not return to Ning Garden to sleep that night. He sent someone to inform them that he would not be returning for a few days because he had some important things to deal with. He also sent Zhan Huan to pack a few of his clothes that he would normally wear over to the study room. At any rate, his actions meant that he was going to stay apart from Sang Wan.


    Nanny Li could not stay still anymore, but there was nothing she could do when she had no idea what exactly happened between the two. As such, she could only ease the tension by saying with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s going to be a new year soon so there must be a lot more to deal with in the business; it would be more convenient for Sir to settle them in the study room! I think we should ask the kitchen to prepare more nutritious food for Sir, what do you think, Ma¡¯am?¡±


    After hearing that he was noting back, Sang Wan felt relieved and disappointed at the same time, so she said absentmindedly, ¡°Nanny Li, you can decide on your own! We arepletely disburdened with what you do!¡±


    Nanny Li answered with a smile, ¡°Even if it¡¯s true, you are still Sir¡¯s wife, what you do for him ispletely different from what us servants do for him! Even if the things done were the same, Sir will be extremely pleased if they were done by you!¡±


    Sang Wan responded with a smile and remained silent, pretending she did not know what Nanny Li meant. Nanny Li sighed to herself and could only let it go.


    The next day at Peony Park.


    ¡°Really? Big Cousin never went back after he left Ning Garden angrily? He also slept in the study room alone?¡± Gu Fangzi sounded very excited.


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Lan Xiang was excited as well. She smiled and said, ¡°I heard it from the servants working in Ning Garden, it can¡¯t be false! But regretfully, our informants are those doing the heavy work in Ning Garden, so as to what exactly happened, they couldn¡¯t get a single clue.¡±


    ¡°This information is enough for me!¡± Gu Fangzi sneered and said, ¡°I¡¯ve waited long enough for this day! And it¡¯s finally here! That vixen, Sang Wan, has finally shown her tail! I would love to see how much longer she can stay in this household after losing Big Cousin¡¯s doting!¡±


    ¡°Missy, as long as you seize this chance, Sir will definitelye back to you!¡± Lan Xiang quickly responded.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Gu Fangzi rolled her eyes at Lan Xiang and sneered, ¡°I will let Big Cousin realize just who exactly is the most suitable woman for him!¡±


    ¡°Sir was only bewitched by Ma¡¯am temporarily, he will definitely realize it one day! After all, Missy grew up with him. If not for Ma¡¯am, there is no way Sir would leave you out in the cold! This servant will help Missy to get dressed now so that when Sir returns from work, we can¡ª¡ª¡±


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 Chapter 138

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 138</h4>


    Lan Xiang was eager to help Gu Fangzi. She was itching to see Gu Fangzi reconcile with Shi Fengju. On one hand, it was to show her loyalty to her owner, on the other, and most importantly, her bitter times would end if they reconciled!


    During the time when Gu Fangzi was given the cold shoulder by Shi Fengju, she would naturally vent her frustrations on Lan Xiang; having to pass each day trembling in fear was way too unpleasant.


    ¡°No!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes lit up for a moment before that urge was suppressed. She shook her head and said firmly, ¡°It is still not the time yet! Let¡¯s wait a while longer and speak about this in two or three days! This will give Big Cousin some time to think things through and realize who on earth truly cares for him!¡±


    Before, she lost just because she wasn¡¯t able to see the bigger picture. Now, she must learn to calm herself down and await the best possible timing; she definitely could not afford to make the same mistake twice. Hmph, men are all contemptible, the harder it is for them to get, the more they would want it. She mustn¡¯t submit too easily. Instead, she would have to devise a careful n to let him take the initiative to approach her!


    ¡°But, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang was worried. She couldn¡¯t just sit and watch as an opportunity escaped, so she hurriedly said, ¡°Missy, things may change if you dy! What if Ma¡¯am admits her mistake and reconciles with Sir? Won¡¯t we lose our opportunity again? Missy, don¡¯t forget that Nanny Li is on Ma¡¯am¡¯s side, how can Nanny Li not do anything to help them if she sees them at odds with each other? Neither Ma¡¯am nor Sir will ignore Nanny Li¡¯s words!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart suddenly shivered; that could happen too!


    ¡°Your words make sense,¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart, which was once full of confidence, was now shaken by Lan Xiang¡¯s words, just like the ripples made after a stone was thrown into a calmke.


    ¡°Yes, Missy, you have to strike while the iron is hot!¡± Lan Xiang went on to persuade her, ¡°Sir may be feeling upset right now. if Missy were to show up tofort him and be nice to him, how could he not be reminded of how nice you were before? Isn¡¯t now the best timing¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°You seem very eager and quite knowledgeable about this situation! Why didn¡¯t I notice it before!¡± Gu Fangzi raised her eyebrows and smiled faintly as she stared at Lan Xiang.


    ¡°This servant thanks Missy for the praise!¡± While Lan Xiang happily bowed and gave her thanks, she suddenly sensed that Gu Fangzi¡¯s smile and tone felt a little off, as if there was a sense of coldness and caution.


    Lan Xiang¡¯s heart quivered, and she hurriedly knelt, ¡°Missy, this servant wholeheartedly and loyally thinks only for you! This servant will never have any inordinate ambitions! This servant is alone with no one else but Missy to rely on! Only when Missy¡¯s life bes good will this servant¡¯s life be good. If Missy was deste, then this servant will struggle as well!¡±


    ¡°Enough, enough! I know that you are loyal to me, now get up!¡± Gu Fangzi waved her hand and frowned slightly. Maybe she was thinking too much; for a girl with no one to rely on, what can she do other than depend on her? Her reason for buying Lan Xiang from outside and groom her into a trustworthy servant was because Lan Xiang had no connections within the Shi family, which made her easy to use! It was likely that this girl would not dare to be disloyal!


    However, thest portion of the servant¡¯s words were triggering. Since when was she ¡°deste¡±? She was merely in her mourning period!


    ¡°Keep your eyes tight on Big Cousin and inform me once he returns! Also, pay the kitchen two silvers and have Auntie Han stew a bowl of nicely-done chicken soup with bamboo shoots!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang jolted and hurriedly answered before getting up from the floor. ¡°Should I prepare Missy¡¯s clothes and essories first?¡±


    Gu Fangzi lowered her head and looked at her in clothes. A hint of disgust shed in her eyes but she said, ¡°No need! Just this will do! All the clothes are about the same anyway! Hmph! And do you think those junk is even qualified to be called essories?¡±


    Lan Xiang did not dare to say anything else and hurriedly prepared to leave.


    Before Lan Xiang¡¯s persuasion, Gu Fangzi was calm and full of confidence. But ever since she heard Lan Xiang¡¯s words, she could no longer stay calm. She was fidgety and her heart was in a mess; how could she wait three or four days? She was itching to see Shi Fengju the moment he returned!


    She was also afraid that maybe she wasn¡¯t quick enough and the people from Ning Garden had already approached him first? Then she would be happy for nothing! Even if Sang Wan was being pretentious and refused to back down, there was still the sagacious Nanny Li in Ning Garden!


    It turned out that Gu Fangzi wasn¡¯t wrong. Nanny Li was indeed trying her best to persuade Sang Wan, ¡°Even the tongue and the teeth would meet asionally, let alone two people! How can a quarrel between a couplest overnight? Life has to go on, doesn¡¯t it? Ma¡¯am, please listen to this old servant. After tonight, let all your anger go and talk things through if there¡¯s any problem! It¡¯s going to be Lunar New Year soon and if Mistress knows about what is happening between you and Sir, won¡¯t she be upset? Ma¡¯am, then this old servant will send someone to keep a lookout for Sir and invite him back once he returns, okay? This old servant will also have the kitchen prepare some dishes that the both of you like and ready a pot of wine. Please use this chance to speak your heart!¡±


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. Sir is the master of this household, how could I dare to be angry at him? Furthermore, I have nothing to be angry about at all! This Ning Garden belongs to Sir, he wille back whenever he wants, I have noments about that! Whatever Nanny wishes to do, then please do!¡±


    After hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words, Nanny Li became speechless.


    Although Sang Wan seemed normal, something just did not seem right!


    ¡°So,¡± Nanny Li probed, ¡°If this servant invites Sir back, Ma¡¯am won¡¯t give Sir the look and will treat him well like before?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Perplexed, Sang Wan looked at her and said with a smile, ¡°Nanny must be overthinking! I will do what a wife has to do, and serve my husband!¡± Nothing more.


    Nanny Li still felt something was not right. She opened her mouth but not a single word left. In fact, she was confused as well. Ma¡¯am was gentle and generous, and served Sir wholeheartedly and carefully. She took care of everything else in Sir¡¯s life, however, something must have changed. Although she had no idea what it was, she was sure that was why Sir became angry! But Ma¡¯am did not do anything wrong, so there was nothing she could say to persuade her. That was why if Sir returned, he would still get angry at Ma¡¯am! It would be better if he didn¡¯t return!


    ¡°Maybe, maybe Sir has something urgent to handle. Let¡¯s wait a few days and see...But Ma¡¯am, please listen to this old servant, you and Sir are a married couple and life has to go on. you shouldn¡¯t let yourself be so upset even if it isn¡¯t for Sir¡¯s sake. This old servant is only saying this because I¡¯m worried for you!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s tears and hug yesterdaypletely triggered Nanny Li¡¯s maternal instinct, and it touched her heart. Unknowingly, she became a little closer to Sang Wan. Otherwise, she would have stood on Shi Fengju¡¯s side when a quarrel between them happened..


    ¡°Nanny, I know.¡± Sang Wan smiled thankfully and nodded her head.


    ¡°This old servant knew you¡¯d understand!¡± Nanny Li said with a smile.


    Finally, the long day had passed. Gu Fangzi changed into a new set of clothes andbed her hair. The chicken soup that the kitchen had been preparing for the entire day was also sent to her in a pot and was kept warm on a small stove. Gu Fangzi gazed outside frequently to check if Lan Xiang had returned.


    Unexpectedly, after a long wait, Lan Xiang was still not back even when the sun had gone down. Gu Fangzi could not help but be fretful and she cussed under her breath.


    A quick nce again and Gu Fangzi saw that Lan Xiang was back atst. She hurried out as she couldn¡¯t wait any longer and stopped Lan Xiang in the yard, ¡°What took you so long! Is Big Cousin back yet?¡±


    Lan Xiang seemed somewhat scared as she shook her head and said with a forced smile, ¡°No, not yet. This servant¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Then why are you back here!¡± Just like being poured cold water, Gu Fangzi spoke angrily, ¡°Go back and keep an eye at the study room!¡±


    Lan Xiang hurriedly mentioned, ¡°This servant heard from the servant at the study room that Sir is having dinner outside with someone tonight, so he will be backte! So, so...¡±


    Gu Fangzi was stumped for words. Of course she was upset, but this was not a bad thing after all; if he were to get drunk, then it would be even better!


    ¡°Inform the kitchen, to prepare a bowl of hangover soup! Go and eat first, continue to keep an eye on the study room after you¡¯ve finished. Return here once Big Cousin is back! Go!¡± Gu Fangzimanded.


    ¡°Yes, Missy! Missy, you don¡¯t have to worry, this servant will focus entirely on the study room!¡± Lan Xiang helped Gu Fangzi back to the house, ¡°Missy, please have your dinner, this servant will serve you first!¡±


    ¡°No need! Just have the servant bring me the dishes. Hurry up, you have more important things to do!¡± And then she grunted, ¡°If you mess this up, you should know what¡¯s waiting for you!¡±


    ¡°This servant understands, this servant will go now!¡± Lan Xiang¡¯s heart tightened and she left hurriedly.


    By the time Shi Fengju returned, it was already in the middle of the night and the moon was already up in the sky. After confirming that he went back to the study room, Lan Xiang rushed back to Peony Park to tell Gu Fangzi.


    Gu Fangzi finally got her opportunity after waiting for the whole day. Knowing that all her efforts had paid off made her excited and pleased, and a bright smile formed on her face. ¡°Quickly, pour a bowl of hangover soup, we will head there now!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang had no time to hesitate, and she answered quickly as prepared.


    After getting the hangover soup into the bowl, Gu Fangzi stopped just before her foot stepped out of the house, ¡°This can¡¯t do! Let¡¯s wait a little more! We can¡¯t go there too soon!¡±


    If she went there too soon, it would be obvious that she was purposely waiting for him! Gu Fangzi forced herself to calm down. She had to at least wait a quarter of an hour.


    Lan Xiang wanted to persuade her again, but she kept her mouth shut after seeing her missy¡¯s calm state of mind. ¡°Yes, Missy.¡± Lan Xiang stood to the side bingly.


    For Gu Fangzi who was anxious and impatient, it was miserable as waiting for a quarter of an hour was basically the same as waiting for an entire day. When it was finally time to go, Gu Fangzi strode out after telling Lan Xiang to go. Lan Xiang hurriedly follow with the food box.


    After arriving outside of the study room¡¯s courtyard, Gu Fangzi took the food box from Lan Xiang before taking a deep breath to ease the impatient expression on her face. Slowly, she went ahead.


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 Chapter 139

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 139</h4>


    ¡°Oh? Miss Gu, to what do we owe this pleasure!¡± Zhan Huan was surprised to see her. He smiled and came forward to greet her.


    Why did it sound so scornful? Gu Fangzi was slightly unhappy but she raised her eyebrows and said with what seemed like smile on her face, ¡°Why? Can¡¯t Ie?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Zhan Huan was startled and eximed as he pped his mouth lightly, before smiling, ¡°Oh, my foolish mouth, just what am I saying? Of course you can, of course you can! This foolish servant was only spouting nonsense, please don¡¯t mind me!¡±


    ¡°I am only joking with you! I¡¯m not so petty! ¡± Gu Fangzi slyly winked her eye as she let out augh.


    Zhan Huan was again startled and he chuckled with her. However, he thought to himself: the sun must have risen from the west! Miss Gu didn¡¯t get angry! This really, really¡ª¡ªreally is strange!


    Gu Fangzi smile slightly, ¡°Is Big Cousin back? I brought some hangover soup after I heard he was drinking outside. How is he? Is he very drunk ? As his servants who follow him around, all of you should advise him not to drink excessively; getting drunk on alcohol is not good for his health...¡±


    Gu Fangzi lectured as she headed towards the study room. Zhan Huan wanted to stop her but did not have the guts to do so and could only follow her as he listened and acknowledged.


    ¡°Miss Gu,¡± Zhan Huan finally mustered enough courage and stopped Gu Fangzi at the door of the study room. Smiling, he said, ¡± It is getting dark and cold, Miss Gu, you should head back quickly and rest. As for this hangover soup, I¡¯ll bring it in. Haha. Sir is a little tipsy, I¡¯m afraid Miss Gu would not be able to speak with him even if you entered...¡±


    ¡°So Big Cousin is drunk?¡± Gu Fangzi pressed, ¡°No! That¡¯s all the more reason to see him! Hurry up and open the door, but don¡¯t rm him. ¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu...¡±


    ¡°What? Do my words mean nothing to you? ¡± Gu Fangzi narrowed her eyes dangerously and red at Zhan Huan as she spoke with a cold tone.


    ¡°This servant doesn¡¯t dare! ¡± Zhan Huan was shocked and he frantically opened the door.


    Gu Fangzi called out to her cousin a few times as she headed straight to Shi Fengju¡¯s room where he normally rested. Sure enough, she saw him lying on the bed with a nket over him.


    ¡°Big Cousin! Big Cousin!¡± Gu Fangzi shook him, her heart in distress.


    Shi Fengju did not drink much. Although tipsy, he was also half awake. He opened his eyes from the noise. uUpon seeing Gu Fangzi, he sat up and frowned, ¡°Cousin? Why are you here!¡±


    This question again, like master like servant!


    Gu Fangzi harbored hate in her heart, but her face remained gentle as she spoke worriedly, ¡°I came because I heard you were drunk. Look at you, why did you not return to Ning Garden and instead lie here when you¡¯re drunk! Sister Sang Wan will be heartbroken if she finds out!¡±


    Fengju would have believed those words if they were said by others, but hearing them from Gu Fangzi¡¯s mouth, they sounded ridiculous and revolting


    Did this woman still take him for a fool, to y and lie to?


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing, you should head back first! I didn¡¯t drink much so I¡¯ll be fine after some quiet rest, ¡± Shi Fengju said inly.


    Gu Fangzi read the situation. When she mentioned Sang Wan, Shi Fengju¡¯s expression changed drastically. She could not help but feel happiness in her heart: something definitely happened between them, great, this is just great!


    ¡°Okay. I will go back once you drink this hangover soup! I specifically asked this to be made for you; it is soothing and will sober you up. You will definitely have a good sleep until tomorrow after you drink it! Here, quickly, drink it!¡± Gu Fangzimanded Lan Xiang to bring the soup over as she spoke.


    When did she be so obedient? Shi Fengju felt strange and thought it was a hallucination caused by the alcohol.


    ¡°Put it there, I will drink itter. ¡± Shi Fengju shook his head. Her actions were so weird that it made his heart ufortable.


    ¡°Big Cousin, drink it quickly. Don¡¯t you feel ufortable? I really care for you! Since young, aren¡¯t we¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi! ¡± Thest thing that Shi Fengju wanted to hear was about the past, and he broke her off, ¡°You should go back first! ¡±


    ¡°Young Master!¡± Before Gu Fangzi could finish her words, Nanny Li came in with a food box in her hand as well and was startled when she saw Gu Fangzi, ¡°Oh? Why is Miss Gu here too?¡±


    This was the third time she hearing this question tonight! Even if Gu Fangzi was good-tempered, she would have already reached her limit; needless to say, she was not good-tempered to begin with.


    ¡°Why? Am I not allowed here? I came only because I care for my husband, do I have to get Nanny Li¡¯s permission to do so? ¡± Gu Fangzi said expressionlessly


    ¡°Oh, Miss Gu, what are you saying?¡± Nanny Li said with a smile, ¡°Young Master had a few drinks tonight and should be resting. Miss Gu, you shouldn¡¯t disturb Young Master now, please go back! ¡±


    Gu Fangzi regretted her scornful words. If she fell out with Nanny Li in front of Shi Fengju, wouldn¡¯t all her previous forbearance be for naught? Despite the regrets in her heart, seeing Nanny Li speak cordially, she felt relieved and quickly said gently with a smile, ¡°I was about to leave. I brought some hangover soup for Big Cousin and nned to leave after he finished it. I¡¯d never expect Nanny Li toe! My words just now have been a little harsh, I hope Nanny won¡¯t take it to heart! ¡±


    Was she possessed by a ghost? Nanny Li was shocked. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at Gu Fangzi. She scanned Gu Fangzi from top to bottom, making sure that she did not mistake her for someone else.


    Gu Fangzi was enraged by Nanny Li¡¯s expression and tant stare. She hatefully thought to herself: this old woman must have been born a wretched. Here I¡¯m showing my good side but you¡¯re doubting it!


    ¡°Nanny, is there something on me?¡± None of that was shown on her face, but rather, she smiled bashfully.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Nanny Li withdrew her stare, and grinned, ¡°This old servant just finds it weird that Miss Gu feels like apletely different person! Oh, so Miss Gu is here to give Young Master some hangover soup. This is really rare!¡±


    Gu Fangzi did not like Shi Fengju drinking outside. Everytime Shi Fengju came back with his body smelling of alcohol, she would re up and grumble. When had she ever made some hangover soup for him? At that time, Shi Fengju doted her and would end up having to coax her. After which, he hadn¡¯t the mood to drink the hangover soup made by Nanny Li. That ached Nanny Li¡¯s heart and she was furious every time that happened.


    Upon hearing that, Gu Fangzi said, ¡°What are you saying, Nanny? Isn¡¯t it all for Big Cousin¡¯s well-being? In the past, I didn¡¯t like Big Cousin to drink outside because drinking is bad for the health, which was why I get angry every time! But I havee to realize that with the size of the Shi family¡¯s business, drinking is out of necessity, so how can Big Cousin not drink a single drop? Fortunately, Big Cousin is sensible and isn¡¯t an alcoholic, this really relieved my worry! Nanny, Big Cousin always listens to you, you should try to urge him to drink less!¡±


    Nanny Li was at a loss for words, what act was Miss Gu trying to put on?


    ¡°Since Nanny Li is here, with your care, there¡¯s no need for me to worry! Big Cousin wasn¡¯t going to drink the hangover soup just now so I was about to persuade him! Nanny, I¡¯ll leave that to you and take my leave first!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and nced at Shi Fengju affectionately before giving a nod towards Nanny Li. With that, she turned away.


    ¡°Miss Gu, this old servant has no intention of chasing you away!¡± Nanny Li came back to her senses and eximed.


    ¡°Look at what Nanny is saying! I know Nanny isn¡¯t that type of person and I have never thought of that!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled good-temperedly. She looked into Nanny Li¡¯s eyes and said frankly, ¡°All this while, I have done some reflecting ande to realize many things. Nanny, please forgive me if I have offended you in the past! In the future, I know what must be done, so there¡¯s no need for Nanny to worry!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and left gracefully with Lan Xiang.


    Nanny Li gaped and was speechless.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes dimmed and he nced at Nanny Li. He shook his head secretly and thought to himself: even though Nanny Li is wise, there are also times when she cannot see through lies.


    In the past he was also blinded by lies, but now that he could tell the truth from the lies, nothing could escape his eyes. Shi Fengju sneered in his heart; he was no longer a fool! Once was enough, he would not be worthy to helm his family business if he were fooled again!


    ¡°That person really needs a bitter experience to learn!¡± Nanny Li said as she brought the hangover soup up to Shi Fengju, ¡°Young Master, drink it while it¡¯s hot and rest early once you¡¯ve drunk it! ¡±


    ¡°Nanny, I didn¡¯t drink much and I¡¯m not even drunk; there¡¯s no need to drink some hangover soup!¡± Shi Fengju gave a bitter smile. If only all of you did note one after another, I would already be fast asleep. As for whether or not he could actually fall asleep, he did not give it much thought.


    ¡°That won¡¯t do!¡± Nanny Li forced the bowl into his hands, ¡°Miss Gu is still right about something, your health is important! You cannot disregard your health! Quickly, drink it, my heart will not be at ease if you do not!¡±


    Shi Fengju had no choice and drank half a bowl.


    ¡°Good,¡± Nanny Li said happily, ¡°I¡¯ll head back now. I¡¯ll tell Zhan Huan toe in to serve you. ¡±


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Seeing that Nanny Li did not mention a single word about Sang Wan, Shi Fengju could no longer hold it in and asked hesitantly, ¡°Sang Wan, is she¡ª¡ªalright?¡±


    Nanny Li was happy when she saw that he still remembered Sang Wan so she said with a smile, ¡°She¡¯s fine! She¡¯s fine! The ointment is effective and the burn on her hand is almost healed! Young Master, not that this old servant wants to nag you, but what did you do? Yesterday, you made Ma¡¯am cry to such a poor state and the blister on her hand had also burst. This old servant has never seen Ma¡¯am this out of herself and it really caused my heart to ache! ¡±


    ¡°Did she cry for a long time yesterday?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart tightened, the image of a girl whose face was teary and was feeling embarrassed, frustrated, and angry, shed before him. He must have been possessed yesterday; how could he have treated her that way!


    ¡°This old servant has already coaxed her,¡± Nanny Li sighed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s alright now. This old servant can¡¯tprehend, just what made the two of you fight? Young Master, Ma¡¯am treats you very well, you can¡¯t treat her the way you did! ¡±


    Shi Fengju gave a weak smile, ¡°Nanny, Sang Wan is my wife, I know how I should treat her. Nanny, is she still angry with me?¡±


    Nanny Li nced deeply at Shi Fengju and thought out loud, ¡°That, is something even this old servant doesn¡¯t understand! I¡¯m not afraid of Young Master mocking me, but even though my eyes have seen countless people, I cannot understand what Ma¡¯am is thinking! ¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? ¡°Shi Fengju asked frantically.


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 Chapter 140

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 140</h4>


    Nanny Li said with a headache, ¡°This old servant consoled Young Mistress for a while, but Young Mistress still wore a smile on her face and spoke calmly. She did not look like she was still holding a grudge, and knew what she should and should not do. But this old servant thinks that something just isn¡¯t right! However, this old servant isn¡¯t really sure! This old servant feels that, sigh, this old servant doesn¡¯t know what to say!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart sank: she still minded!


    ¡°So even Nanny feels it too.¡± Shi Fengju smiled unwittingly, ¡°Nanny, tell me, is Sang Wan any differentpared to before?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Nanny Li said, ¡°Although Young Mistress still remains equally concerned about Young Master these days and takes care of you all the same, but she seems to have distanced herself from you. No matter what, she just feels very different from the past!¡±


    ¡°Yes, she knowingly distanced herself from me.¡± Shi Fengju sighed and said, ¡°She still mes me for not speaking up for her so it¡¯s no wonder she¡¯s still angry with me. But this has to do with my big sister. Big Sister always puts up a strong front; without her saying, I know she still feels like she is living under someone else¡¯s roof. It¡¯s not easy for her too and I cannot hurt her heart any further. Otherwise, my mother will be sad. Some things can only be dealt with by closing an eye. But Sang Wan will have to be the one to end up suffering grievances because it cannot be helped!¡±


    Nanny Li suddenly came to a realization and finally understood somewhat more. ¡°Young Mistress is not the only one to suffer. From how this old servant sees it, you¡¯re suffering as well! Young Mistress is reasonable, so don¡¯t worry, she will understand this eventually! After all, one still has to live their life! If she doesn¡¯t understand, and wants to keep the thorn in her heart, she won¡¯t feelfortable! But Young Mistress¡¯s dignity cannot be disregarded. Young Master, you have to talk to Eldest Missy a little. Even if something big were to happen, how could she point at the family¡¯s young mistress¡¯s nose, give a rude scolding, and even resort to violence! How will Young Mistress uphold herself in this household when the servants see that!¡±


    ¡°This matter was because of my carelessness; it definitely won¡¯t happen again!¡± Shi Fengju then thought to himself: was this episode not enough? If this were to happen again, Sang Wan would surely ignore me forever! Shi Fengju¡¯s face dulled and he immediately felt frustrated again. They still had to continue living their lives? Will they be able to do that together? She seemed adamant about leaving this time, would he still be able to keep her?


    ¡°Nanny, please take care of Sang Wan for me. In a few days, in a few days, I will go back. I really have something that I¡¯m busy with these few days, so tell her to not worry!¡± Shi Fengju decided. No matter what, he would not let her go. In any case, he had already made himself clear; if he disregarded that haphazard promise, then it is voided!


    ¡°Young Master, don¡¯t worry! This old servant will take care of Young Mistress well. With your words, this old servant can finally rx now and Young Mistress will be happy as well! Young Master, please rest, this old ve will head back first!¡± Nanny Li said happily.


    ¡°Nanny, please do!¡± Shi Fengju nodded and smiled.


    Nanny Li went back happily and exined everything to Sang Wan at once. Of course, she did not forget to add a few morepliments for Shi Fengju and mentioned how much he still thought about Young Mistress! Sang Wan knew that she had always sided Shi Fengju so did not think much about her words and listened out of courtesy.


    ¡°Young Master said he¡¯s really busy these few days and will be back in a few days. Young Mistress, you see, Young Master¡¯s heart always has you! No matter what he did in the past, shouldn¡¯t the past remain the past? Young Mistress, you should stop holding onto them anymore! Eldest Missy doesn¡¯te and find trouble for you these days, right? It looks like Young Master had already talked to her so that absurd thing wouldn¡¯t happen again. So Young Mistress, you don¡¯t have to worry anymore!¡±


    The more Nanny Li spoke, the more her lips became loose and she revealed, ¡°Miss Gu also went to the study room to court Shi Fengju¡¯s favor. Luckily, this old servant arrived at the right moment. Young Mistress, you need to be more alert, don¡¯t let that certain someone take advantage of the situation!¡±


    Sang Wan blinked and she finally asked, ¡°Sister went to the study room as well?¡±


    Nanny Li secretly regret speaking too much, but she could only smile and say, ¡°Yes, Miss Gu brought some hangover soup to Young Master. But before he could drink it, this old servant arrived. After that, Miss Gu left and Young Master drank the hangover soup from us instead!¡±


    An inexplicable sense of unhappiness arose within Sang Wan. He must be happy that his beloved sweetheart brought him hangover soup, right?


    ¡°If that is so, then there was no need for us to bring the soup to him,¡± Sang Wan gave a small smile and said, ¡°Sister is so considerate! I¡¯m sure Young Master must be very happy to see her.¡±


    ¡°That isn¡¯t the case!¡± Nanny Li immediately said, ¡°Young Master let her leave after exchanging only a few sentences! This old servant can see that Young Master¡¯s heart only has you, he doesn¡¯t treat Miss Gu as he did previously! Young Master has finally be sensible; she is a concubine now, how can shepete with you? Young Master will never allow her to bully you!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled indifferently, ¡°I understand what Nanny is trying to say! Don¡¯t worry, as long as I¡¯m still the Shi family¡¯s Mistress, I will fulfill my responsibility!¡±


    ¡°This, this, this old servant knows you are an understanding person...¡± Nanny Li nodded with a smile. Something just didn¡¯t seem right.


    ¡°Missy, won¡¯t our entire day¡¯s effort go to waste if we leave just like this?¡± Lan Xiang could not help but ask softly as they left the study room.


    ¡°You don¡¯t say!¡± Gu Fangzi had a stomach full of resentment and she poked Lan Xiang on the forehead with her finger as she red, ¡°What other choice do we have? I¡¯m afraid that I will end up quarreling with that annoying hag again; that¡¯ll really put all our efforts to waste!¡±


    Lan Xiang was stunned for a moment as she found Gu Fangzi a little strange. She thought to herself: what¡¯s wrong with Missy? Since when was she so afraid of Nanny Li?


    ¡°This is called retreating to advance, understand? You won¡¯t know even if I were to exin it to you!¡±Gu Fangzi said snappily, ¡°Enough, let¡¯s hurry home!¡±


    In order to change her image, she would have to do it slowly and take every chance she was given. She must not be in a hurry, else, there would truly be no more hope left for her.


    Upon seeing Nanny Li¡¯s surprised expression, Gu Fangzi became filled with energy and felt that her night had not gone to waste. Also, Big Cousin was very calm and did not be angry after a few sentences. From that, she could see the effectiveness in her tactic!


    Gu Fangzi suddenly stopped in her footsteps, ¡°Wake up early tomorrow morning and find out properly if Big Cousin went back to Ning Garden to rest tonight.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang quickly obeyed.


    If Big Cousin slept in the study room even with Nanny Li trying to mend their rtionship, then that meant that he had really gotten into a serious quarrel with that vixen, Sang Wan, and it was then that her chance woulde. If he were coaxed by Nanny Li to go return to Ning Garden, then ¡ª¡ª


    Gu Fangzi became more frustrated and creased her eyebrow, saying, ¡°Keep watch at the entrance of Ning Garden secretly right now and check if Big Cousin went back!¡±


    She could not wait until the next day, otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be able to fall asleep.


    ¡°Missy,¡± Lan Xiang said bitterly, ¡°Then what time should I keep watch until? Who knows what time Young Master will decide to head back¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Stupid!¡± Gu Fangzi scolded impatiently, ¡°It isn¡¯t early anymore. If Big Cousin is going back to Ning Garden, he would definitely go back with Nanny Li. You just have to see if Nanny Li returned on her own!¡±


    ¡°Understood, this maidservant understands!¡± Lan Xiang¡¯s spirit rose in an instant. If she had to keep watch of Ning Garden for the whole night, on such a cold night, she would freeze to death.


    After helping Gu Fangzi back to Peony Park, Lan Xiang hurriedly went out after putting on a thick coat in her room.


    After just a moment, Lan Xiang returned with good news for Gu Fangzi. Gu Fangzi was so happy that her eyes lit up. After praising repeatedly, she rewarded Lan Xiang handsomely by giving her her best piece of silver hairpin.


    Tonight, she could finally sleep in peace!


    On the next morning, Gu Fangzi went to Wang Shi as usual to chat. Sang Wan felt uneasy seeing her and was afraid that she would find some way toin to Wang Shi in an indirect manner, as well as spill the beans about Shi Fengju resting in the study room. No matter the reason, Wang Shi would definitelyin about how she was not fulfilling her duty as a wife in taking care of her own husband. If not, why would he be sleeping in the study room and not in his chamber?


    What caught her by surprise was that Gu Fangzi did not mention any of that at all. She greeted her in a friendly manner and said a few words. That greatly confused Sang Wan.


    After Sang Wan left Wang Shi¡¯s ce, she suddenly understood. Of course she wouldn¡¯t say anything. If she did, Wang Shi would not have sat down to watch them quarrel, and instead would intervene to mend their rtionship as well. That was definitely not what Gu Fangzi wanted to see! She wouldn¡¯t tell on her, instead she would be more than happy to conceal it.


    Sang Wan was right, Gu Fangzi thought that way exactly. She wanted them to quarrel and would not do anything that would not benefit her at all.


    After Sang Wan left, Shi Fengju arrived at Wang Shi¡¯s ce. If there was nothing too urgent, he would give his greetings to Wang Shi everyday before leaving.


    After Shi Fengju left, Gu Fangzi could not resist telling Wang Shi, ¡°Big Cousin looks a little tired!¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Wang Shi immediately took notice when she heard her and pondered, ¡°Really? I didn¡¯t notice it just now¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°I think so too,¡± Shi Yumei seized the chance to badmouth Sang Wan and said, ¡°Second brother does look a bit pale, who knows how that daughter-inw takes care of her husband! Mother, you should question her properly!¡±


    ¡°Yumei!¡± Wang Shi red at Shi Yumei unhappily, and scolded her, ¡°There you go again!¡±


    ¡°Mother! What did I do!¡± Shi Yumei said unhappily, ¡°I¡¯m already doing what you told me to. These few days, I¡¯ve been treating her as air and did not find trouble for her anymore. If you are not happy, then what more do you want me to do? Don¡¯t tell me you want me to be her ve and obey her words! Then you might as well take a knife and end me earlier! Furthermore, I am not wrong too, shouldn¡¯t she take care of second brother as his wife? Second brother doesn¡¯t look too well, if we don¡¯t ask her then who do we ask!¡±


    ¡°Just listen to yourself! I only criticize you for a bit and you talk so much back at me!¡± Wang Shi scolded again, ¡°What do you mean by air, who would speak like you!¡± But her daughter was right, Sang Wan must be questioned.


    ¡°Aunt Wang, Cousin Yumei has always been direct with her words. I¡¯m sure she doesn¡¯t mean it. Please don¡¯t me her! I think Cousin Yumei¡¯s personality is very refreshing and very authentic!¡± Gu Fangzi hurriedly smiled and said.


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 Chapter 141

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 141</h4>


    ¡°See, even Fangzi says so too! Only Fangzi understands me, while the rest of you just me me for everything! In any case, if you want me to act all submissive like a ve and suck up to her with a smile on my face, I won¡¯t be able to do that,¡± Shi Yumei quickly added.


    ¡°Enough, enough! You! It is all my fault for spoiling you, when will you finally hit a brick wall and learn!¡± Wang Shi red at her. This daughter of hers quarreling with her really made her mad, but Shi Yumei had be a lot more restrained in the past few days and everyone seemed to be getting along well on the surface! Just let it go and let her be! Wang Shi thought to herself.


    Before Wang Shi could open her mouth to call Sang Wan over, Gu Fangzi quickly smiled and said, ¡°Aunt Wang is just protective over Cousin Yumei. Which mother doesn¡¯t love their daughter and would want to let their daughter suffer! But some of Cousin Yumei¡¯s words may sound a little too extreme; Sister Sang Wan is always very meticulous, and takes care of Big Cousin wholeheartedly. I¡¯m sure it isn¡¯t possible that she did not take good care of Big Cousin¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hey! How could you side with her when she bullies you!¡± Shi Yumei almost jumped from her seat and blurted out, interrupting Gu Fangzi.


    Gu Fangzi disliked others interrupting her when she spoke. Although she was a little unhappy on the inside, she did not dare to say otherwise to Shi Yumei and smiled docilely, ¡°Cousin Yumei, don¡¯t put it that way. Sister Sang Wan has never mistreated me, how would she¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°How did she not, you said so clearly ¡ª¡ª¡± Shi Yumei blurted out again. She was about to add that it was Gu Fangzi who said so clearly and wanted to mention a few examples as well.


    However, that made Gu Fangzi anxious and she quickly interrupted Shi Yumei, ¡°No, that¡¯s not true. There¡¯s no way Aunt Wang would not stand up for me and let her bully me!¡¯


    Aunt Wang, Aunt Wang! Gu Fangzi emphasised those words while signalling to Shi Yumei with her eyes.


    Shi Yumei finally realized the signal. Right, we cannot let Mother know. Otherwise, she will definitely be angry and that will be bad for her body. Cousin Fangzi¡¯s effort in keeping it from Mother should not be wasted because of me!


    Shi Yumei forced herself to hold back herself and said grudgingly, ¡°I suppose so!¡±


    ¡°Look at you! Sang Wan had always behaved appropriately, unlike you!¡± Wang Shi rolled her eyes at Shi Yumei.


    Gu Fangzi could onlyugh, ¡°Cousin Yumei was just concerned for me. I am also at fault for making her worry. Aunt Wang, please don¡¯t me Cousin Yumei!¡±


    ¡°Fangzi, you are bing more sensible these days!¡± Wang Shi smiled andplimented.


    ¡°This is all because of Aunt Wang¡¯s guidance,¡± Gu Fangzi gave a humble smile before adding on, ¡°Maybe it¡¯s nearing the end of the year when there¡¯s much to handle in the business and so many finance ounts to check. Big Cousin must be tired! During the same periodst year, he had to busy himself for quite awhile!¡±


    ¡°That is true! How could I have forgotten about it!¡± Wang Shi felt even more sorry for her son and sighed, ¡°Still, what can be done? Other than Fengju, no one can help him there! Sigh, it must be hard for him!¡± Wang Shi quickly instructed Nanny Jiang, ¡°Tell the kitchen chefs to make a little more of nutritious and delicious food for the Young Master every night. Also, I still have about a kilogram of bird nest; send it over to Ning Gardenter! If there are still some high-quality old ginseng around, find two good ones and send it over together as well!¡±


    Nanny Jiang quickly answered with a bow.


    ¡°Aunt Wang loves Big Cousin dearly! No wonder Big Cousin is so filial!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled as sheplimented.


    ¡°Ha, which mother doesn¡¯t love their son!¡± Wang Shi smiled casually while she shook her hands, but she felt good upon hearing those words.


    Gu Fangzi quickly went on, ¡°Oh right, Aunt Wang, I¡¯m quite free these days. Maybe I can help share some of Big Cousin¡¯s burden, I don¡¯t know if ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Shi Yumei eyes glimmered and she quickly pped, ¡°Yes, I think that¡¯ll be for the best! Since you¡¯ve helped him with the financesst year, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be able to help him this year as well! Fengju won¡¯t be so tired with you helping him!¡±


    Wang Shi also felt that it was a good idea, but quickly said, ¡°Only that¡ª¡ª do you really have the time?¡±


    Gu Fangzi quickly smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s about sincerity when ites to mourning; if the sincerity is there, I have done my duty as a child in mourning for my father. Everyday, I light up three joss sticks, chant, and pay respects during regr hours. I believe that my father would have felt my sincerity from above. Anyway, father had instructed me to repay the favor to the Shi family. Me doing something for the Shi family and sharing the burden will also be following his wishes. That is the greatest thing I can do for my father!¡±


    ¡°Fangzi¡¯s right, Mother, Fangzi is very right!¡± Shi Yumei nodded repeatedly in agreement before joking, ¡°Anyway, Fangzi is already considered a member of our family, won¡¯t it be normal for her to share some of our family¡¯s burden?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true!¡± Of course, Wang Shi doted on her son as well and was d that Gu Fangzi could share some of her son¡¯s burden. She smiled, ¡°Go ahead and let Fengju know tonight!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang,¡± Gu Fangzi hesitated a little, and smiled, ¡°Will it possible for Aunt Wang to tell Big Cousin about this instead? I¡¯m afraid¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Right, Mother!¡± Shi Yumei chipped in, ¡°If not, others might think that Fangzi is vying for Fengju¡¯s attention and spread some false rumors; like how disrespectful it is during her mourning period. Won¡¯t that damage Fangzi¡¯s reputation? That will turn her goodwill into something bad!¡±


    Wang Shi simply skipped over Shi Yumei¡¯s words and nodded, ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll let him know when he¡¯s back!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Aunt Wang,¡± Gu Fangzi was so happy that she got up to give her thanks before giving an appreciative look to Shi Yumei. The two looked at each other and smiled.


    Gu Fangzi was now gloating as her wish finally came true. As for Shi Yumei, she could not wait to see Shi Fengju neglect Sang Wan and would be ted to see that oue. From their objectives, their alliance was unbreakable.


    Gu Fangzi quickly took her leave when her objective waspleted. After apanying Wang Shi to speak a few more sentences, she obediently excused herself to ¡°mourn¡±, and Wang Shi nodded with a smile.


    In the evening, thinking that Shi Fengju was about to return, Gu Fangzi went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce. Initially, she had wanted to be more restrained, and wait in Peony Park for Shi Fengju toe up to her to invite her. But the more she thought about it, the more a sense of uneasiness crept into her heart: Big Cousin is now ensnared by Sang Wan that vixen so he isn¡¯t as rational and won¡¯t treat me as well as before. With me present, I might be able to sway his decision. Even if he is unhappy, I can still exin myself. If that isn¡¯t enough, Aunt Wang is easily influenced; in two or three sentences, Big Cousin¡¯s decision may sway.


    However, Gu Fangzi had failed to notice that her heart had already understood the fact that Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was no longer with her, which was why she had to resort to such desperate tactics.


    ¡°Hehe, you, child, are too anxious! Fengju hasn¡¯t returned yet. Don¡¯t worry, when he¡¯s back, I¡¯ll definitely tell him about it!¡± Wang Shi saw here over and smiled as she joked.


    ¡°Mother, Fangzi is just concerned about Fengju!¡± Fangzi did not have to open her mouth; Shi Yumei had already helped her to exin, ¡°If not, she would already be so happy while she waited in Peony Park!¡±


    Gu Fangzi quickly said, ¡°Big Cousin is the head of the family and also my only pir of strength; it is only natural for me to be concerned about Big Cousin.¡±


    ¡°Child, you¡¯re too considerate!¡± Wang Shi could not help but to feel touched by Gu Fangzi. She ordered Xiu Chun to watch the second gate and to report back as soon as Shi Fengju returned.


    Shi Fengju knew his mother¡¯s tendency to overreact from hearsay, and knowing that Gu Fangzi was also present, he felt a little ufortable. After hearing from Xiu Chun, he remained calm and returned to the study room first to groom himself before heading over to his mother¡¯s ce.


    As soon as he entered, Wang Shi stared at hisplexion. Shi Fengju found it weird and raised his hand to touch his face, and smiled, ¡°Mother, is there something on my face, or do you not recognize me? Why are you staring at me like that!¡±


    ¡°Quit joking around!¡± Wang Shi gave him a re and pulled him to sit for a chat. While she ordered the maidservants to serve a cup of old ginseng tea with wolfberries, she sighed to Shi Yumei and Gu Fangzi, ¡°Indeed, he looks a little skinnier and more lethargic!¡±


    Shi Fengju opened the tea cover to take a glimpse and creased his eyebrows before leaving the tea where it was. He ordered a maidservant, ¡°Change this to Longjing Tea or Pi Luo Chun Tea!¡±


    ¡°Stop!¡± Wang Shi interjected, ¡°Mother specially instructed them to prepare this tea for you to improve your health. Why change something that¡¯s fine? Quickly, now, drink it all up!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju was exasperated, ¡°My body is in good health, what¡¯s there to nourish! I don¡¯t like drinking this!¡±


    ¡°What? So you¡¯re not going to listen to your mother?¡± Wang Shi was both unhappy and concerned, ¡°Mother is doing this for your own good. Look at you, yourplexion is so pale these days, how is that good! Xiu Chun, put that tea right in front of him!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Old Mistress!¡± Xiu Chun brought the same cup of tea to him ¡°Young Master, please drink it!¡±


    Shi Fengju knew that his mother would do it herself if he continued to insist on not drinking. Not wanting that to happen, he drank two mouthful to pacify his mother.


    ¡°Now, that¡¯s much better!¡± Satisfied, Wang Shi smiled and reminded, ¡°It¡¯s almost the end of the year. Even though there are a lot of business matters to settle, you should put your health ahead of our family¡¯s business! Otherwise, I will be worried!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Shi Yumei also added, ¡°Compared to everything else, your health is most important, even more than money! Spending money at the cost of your health will make us all uneasy!¡±


    It is still my family that cares for me! Shi Fengju felt warm inside and smiled, ¡°Mother, Big Sister, don¡¯t worry. I know what to do! Anyway, I am still young, I can handle this bit of load!¡±


    Gu fangzi added in concern, ¡°Big Cousin, you shouldn¡¯t say that. You should be more careful when you are young. What if problems start to appear when you grow older because you didn¡¯t take care of yourself when young?¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s heart went ¡°Ba-thump¡±. Was that the case? If that¡¯s so , she must find someone who can help him! As for the choice of the person, Gu Fangzi is without doubt the most suitable.


    Wang Shi gave a slight cough and said to Shi Fengju, ¡°Fangzi is very right! You always make Mother worry! I understand that some decisions cannot be made by the manager or the other workers and must be decided by members from our household! How about letting Gu Fangzi share some of your burden. It has always been like that before! Then it¡¯s settled. Tonight discuss with Fangzi properly and let her help you tomorrow.¡±


    Gu Fangzi threw a gentle look at Shi Fengju and her lips curled into a soft smile, ¡°Big Cousin won¡¯t find Fangzi nosy, right?¡±

 Chapter 142

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 142</h4>


    Why won¡¯t I? Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows instinctively. He avoided answering her question and smiled as he asked his mother, ¡°Why would Mother talk about this all of a sudden?¡± She had never intervened in the family¡¯s business in the past.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it because I worry for you!¡± Wang Shi red at him, ¡°You don¡¯t know how to take care of yourself, how can I not worry! Enough, you should hurry back and rest!¡±


    ¡°Mother,¡± Shi Fengju said with a straight face, ¡°Just let Cousin Fangzi mourn in peace, she doesn¡¯t have to help.¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression changed slightly and her smile froze. How could he! This was Aunt Wang¡¯s suggestion, yet he still rejected it!


    Other than feeling sad, a sour and indescribable feeling exploded in her heart. Did he really dislike her so much to not want to be with her? Even Aunt Wang¡¯s words were futile!


    Men are men, they are untrustworthy and unreliable. In the past, he had treated her so nicely and listened to her every word, as well as doted on and coaxed her. It hadn¡¯t been long and he had changedpletely!


    How could she ept it? She was indignant and unhappy.


    ¡°Fengju, Fangzi was just being kind, how could you say that!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and said, ¡°I know, you must be afraid that Fangzi¡¯s reputation may be affected for not mourning whole-heartedly? Don¡¯t worry about that, she doesn¡¯t need to kneel in front of the altar for an entire day during mourning period, so helping you out won¡¯t sh with her mourning! Not only that, Uncle Gu also wished for Fangzi to repay our family properly; helping you will be obeying her father¡¯s wishes! You can put yourself at ease!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Shi Fengju said indifferently, ¡°There is really no need; I can handle it myself.¡± Shi Fengju could not help but think of Sang Wan. If the quarrel between him and Sang Wan did not happen, surely she would have continued to help him with the finances? Pity... she got mad at him and returned the books to him.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re afraid that a certain someone will get jealous?¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s expression turned cold with a slight indigance in her tone.


    ¡°Big Sister, don¡¯t make everything about Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju felt a twinge of anger rising within him. ¡°I am a man, I know how to make my own decisions and it is not up to others to sway them!¡±


    While he said, he gave a subtle nce at Gu Fangzi.


    Gu Fangzi lowered her head and ignored his gaze, but her heart was pounding loudly for she knew that his words were directed at her.


    Shi Yumei remained oblivious and nodded at his words, ¡°That¡¯s better! That should be the way! You cannot let her rule over you and obey her every word!¡± Suddenly, she eximed, ¡°Eh, wait! If that isn¡¯t the case, how did you know I was referring to her? Don¡¯t tell me she really gets jealous easily?¡±


    Shi Fengju almost wanted to roll his eyes from her train of thought. Who else in this household would you speak about in such a tone? Even a dimwit would know!


    ¡°There you go again!¡± Shi Fengju did not even have the patience to exin and said indifferently, ¡°Whatever it is, you just have to know that I know what I am doing! Mother, if you have nothing else, I will be going now!¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin, is Big Cousin so unwilling to receive help from Fangzi? Fangzi only wants to share some of Big Cousin¡¯s burden and not let Aunt Wang worry!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes glimmered as she looked at him, ¡°Furthermore, why could I help you in the past, but not anymore? Is it because Big Cousin dislikes Fangzi now...¡±


    ¡°Why would he! Fangzi, don¡¯t overthink this!¡± Wang Shi added, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Aunt Wang here has told you before, I will never let you suffer in the Shi household!¡±


    As Wang Shi said, she gave a warning look to Shi Fengju. She could somewhat sense that her son no longer saw his childhood sweetheart, the cousin he once insisted on marrying, the same as before. Now that Gu Fangzi had already thrown this question out, of course she would want her son to give an answer. Fangzi was too pitiful, and had already married into the Shi family. She would not allow her son to treat Fangzi poorly.


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi, you are mistaken,¡± Shi Fengju could only affirm calmly, ¡°Why would I dislike you without any reason? I know that you are just concerned about me, and I really appreciate it! But you haven¡¯t been involved with our family business this year, so there are many details you wouldn¡¯t know. Instead of rendering help to me, I¡¯ll have to take the time off to exin all the details to you. Using that same amount of time, I could already finish whatever that needed to be done! Why should I still have to trouble you? Tell me, don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    Gu Fangzi could not help but feel disappointed. After Sang Wan entered the household, her focus was ced entirely on the household and everything outside of the household was left out. However, she also understood that because the Shi Young Mistress had just married into the family, for the face of the Shi family, they would never allow her to travel out of the household together with her big cousin. And thus, it was inevitable!


    Still, why couldn¡¯t he not take the time to exin to her? She had plotted to use that opportunity to deepen their rtionship further; who knew he would give such a reason to reject her offer.


    Gu Fangzi was unwilling to give up and tried, ¡°Aren¡¯t they mostly repetitive every year? I should be able to understand with a quick exnation, I¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Your words make it sound so simple,¡± Shi Fengju said inly, ¡°A business isn¡¯t like farming where the crops are reaped every year at around the same time so long as there is no drought or flood. Business transactions are different everyday, how do I exin it all to you in a short time? One small mistake can result in serious consequences, these things have to be made crystal clear and there is no ce for ¡®probably¡¯ or ¡®maybe¡¯. I believe Cousin Fangzi is very clear about this too?¡±


    His meaning was that, before was before. Her knowledge was no longer applicable in the present! So, forget it!


    Wang Shi was made confused by his words, but there was one point that she understood: Gu Fangzi could not lend any help and instead, might bring even more trouble to her son.


    ¡°This,¡± Wang Shi was still feeling distressed and was also unwilling to give up, ¡°Are there no other ways? Mother is worried for you, seeing how tired you are!¡±


    ¡°Mother! I know what I¡¯m doing, so you don¡¯t have to worry! If you really want to do something for me,¡± Shi Fengju gave a meaningful nce at Shi Yumei and smiled, ¡°Just make sure that I can have a good rest everyday when Ie home!¡±


    ¡°Alright then,¡± Wang Shi nced at Shi Yumei once and sighed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, if anyone dares to start something within this household, I will never let the matter rest! I will tell Sang Wan to take better care of you! Enough now, go back and rest!¡±


    ¡°Mother, why does topic always return to me!¡± Shi Yumei was feeling very aggrieved.


    Wang Shi sighed unhappily and said directly, ¡°Then tell me, other than you, who else would there be?¡±


    Shi Yumei was suddenly speechless and about to start another argument with Shi Fengju. However, Wang Shi waved and said quickly, ¡°Stop disturbing your younger brother, let him quickly go back!¡±


    Shi Fengju looked towards his big sister with a smile that did not seem like a smile before turning away calmly. Shi Yumei was triggered by it and started ranting to Wang Shi.


    ¡°Aunt Wang, I¡¯ll go back too.¡± Gu Fangzi felt a little empty in her heart and she forced a smile while standing up.


    ¡°Go then!¡± Wang Shi smiled gently, ¡°Your offer was out of goodwill, Aunt Wang understands! But since Fengju said he¡¯s fine, then so be it.¡±


    ¡°En, Fangzi will pray for Big Cousin,¡± Gu Fangzi nodded submissively with a smile, and bowed as she left.


    When she turned and left Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard, her face turned cold as ice and she cursed under her breath: Everything is all a facade! So what if it¡¯s Aunt Wang! She says she cares for me, but she still cares for her son more. Just a few meagre sentences from him is able to sway her from my heartfelt words!


    Is there even sincerity in this world? True sincerity is only to oneself!


    Gu Fangzi was unable to ept that very fact so she hurriedly caught up to Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Big Cousin!¡± She ran in front of Shi Fengju and smiled bitterly, ¡°Big Cousin, why, why do you treat me like this? Big Cousin, tell me the truth, I know that the words in front of Aunt Wang were just an excuse!¡±


    Shi Fengju remained quiet and only looked at her.


    Gu Fangzi gazed straight at him too, her eyes brimming with foolish love, two streams of tears flowing slowly down her face.


    Why was she so unlucky! Everything was going so smoothly before, but after she entered the Shi Household to be an ¡°actual¡± Shi family member, everything went downhill instead.


    And all these changes were due to the man in front of her and the woman that the man married! It was all because of her!


    ¡°Looks like Cousin Yumei was right, you are afraid that Sister Sang Wan will get angry, right?¡± Gu Fangzi closed her eyes in pain and said pitifully, ¡°But I really just want to help you! Am I wrong even for doing that?¡±


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi,¡± Shi Fengju said inly, ¡°You should know very well that I don¡¯t like to be used. Whatever you want to do in the future, you can let me know instead of plotting behind my back and being so indirect!¡±


    A sense of disgust rose in Shi Fengju¡¯s heart. Did she really think that everyone is a fool? To reach her goal, she even manipted his mother! And yet she still expected him to cooperate? She must be dreaming!


    ¡°You, how dare you say that about me! Am I really such a person in your eyes!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face paled instantly and her body trembled. She stumbled forward as her legs turned weak, ¡°I didn¡¯t plot behind your back, I was just afraid that you would refuse so that¡¯s why I wanted Aunt Wang to speak some good words for me! I really just want to help you! Big Cousin, have you forgotten? You said before, no matter what happens, we will go through them together. I¡¯ve always remembered it, but you didn¡¯t!¡±


    Hearing that, there was only a strong sense of irony in his heart: a woman who was full of tricks and only thought of herself still had the nerve to use the past to question him!


    And until now, she still assumed she was not wrong, only he was.


    Shi Fengju thought that his head must have been kicked by a donkey, which was why he had liked her for so long.


    ¡°Afraid that I would refuse?¡± Shi Fengju raised his eyebrows slightly, ¡°So you nned to use my mother to apply pressure on me, right? Cousin Fangzi, I was too foolish in the past, but I know now that there are some things that cannot be shouldered by you! And, do not forget your own status! I don¡¯t have to remind you about this anymore, do I?¡±


    Gu Fangzi froze and her face became even more pale. She knew what he wanted to say was thatst sentence. Her status, her status, that was the only feelings he had for her now!


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about what you shouldn¡¯t and don¡¯t worry about what¡¯s not within your scope!¡± Shi Fengju nced at her with onest meaningful look then left without a word.


    Gu Fangzi felt an unprecedented amount of anger and resentment in her heart as she stared at the view of Shi Fengju¡¯s back. She remained stationary on the spot.

 Chapter 143

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 143</h4>


    Status, status, again and again! A mere status was firmly trapping her. That, was only a stepping stone in her life! Gu Fangzi could not imagine herself to be like Concubine Shui or Concubine Fang, living their lives revolving around the Second Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress¡¯ mood. Her life should not be like that.


    Sang Wan, it is still too early for you to be happy! The grudge between us, has not been settled!


    ¡°Missy, why not we, go back... The sky is getting dark...¡± Lan Xiang saw a few curious nces from passersby and could not help but hold onto Gu Fangzi while whispering softly.


    Lan Xiang was already prepared for her missy to vent all the anger on her, but who knew that Gu Fangzi only turned her head towards her and smiled with a nod, ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go back.¡±


    Lan Xiang exhaled and hurriedly consoled her, ¡°Missy, Young Master¡¯s heart still has you! If not, he won¡¯t have been so angry!¡±


    ¡°Oh? You think so?¡± Gu Fangzi raised her eyebrows and was a little startled.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Lan Xiang was suddenly more eager and she quickly added, ¡°Missy think about it, Young Master was so angry because you wanted to have Old Mistress help you say a few good words! However, because you didn¡¯t go directly to Young Master, Young Master must have thought that you distanced yourself from him, and thus felt angry! Missy, if there is anything in the future, why not tell Young Master directly? This maidservant believes that Young Master will be very happy.¡±


    Finally, something pleasing to her ears. Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes brightened and she felt a little better in her heart. ¡°You aren¡¯t wrong, looks like that¡¯s the case! This time, I really didn¡¯t think about it thoroughly and that¡¯s why the n did not go smoothly!¡±


    ¡°Missy, there will still be chances in the future, don¡¯t be disappointed!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, let¡¯s talk about it after awhile!¡± Gu Fangzi was depressed again. The man she had almost caught with her hands had flown off again, who knows when the next suitable chance will be.


    At first, Shi Fengju wanted to return to the study room, but he unknowingly walked to the entrance of Ning Garden. He subconsciously raised his legs and was about to enter. Suddenly, he realized what he was doing and quickly took a step back. Outside, he shuffled back and forth in front of the entrance.


    To enter, or not to enter? He was rather unsure on what he was to do.


    The young maidservants did not dare to go up to greet him for fear ofnding into trouble. But already, there were already a few hurrying to inform Sang Wan. The remaining did not dare to stand in Ning Garden¡¯s courtyard to y a staring game with their master and all scurried away, acting as if they had not seen him.


    Everyone else could do so, but Sang Wan naturally could not. She brought Liu Ya and Zhide, and went to wee him in a docile manner ¡°Lord, why aren¡¯t youing in?¡±


    Shi Fengju looked up. A woman with a gentle, feminine face and a calmposure, came into his view. In the eyes of others, Sang Wan would definitely be praised as a polite and well-mannered woman. But in Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes, there was a clear sense of coldness and istion around her that could not be dispelled. There was an invisible gulf between them that could never be crossed.


    Shi Fengu felt a sense of frustration. He had rather she was angry at him and venting all her anger out on him, than to see her acting in such a way towards him.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression sank and he said coldly, ¡°There is no need! Mistress can do whatever she pleases!¡± He turned away and left without looking back.


    ¡°Mistress, why is Master so polite today!¡± Liu Ya was a little perplexed.


    Sang Wan said lightly, ¡°Lord is a gentleman, he is always polite to people! You brat, what are you saying without reserve!¡±


    Liu Ya stuck out her tongue and said nothing more.


    Shi Fengju returned to the study room grudgingly. He would be spending another night there again. He tried to console himself: the study room isn¡¯t so bad. At least, there¡¯s a bed to sleep in and I don¡¯t have to put a mattress on the floor!


    However, it was going to be a sleepless night for him. He was a little lost at what to do. She wasthe woman he really wanted to spend his entire life with, but do they have a future together? If she didn¡¯t have him in his heart and remained as cold as ice, what use was there in forcing her to stay by his side? But if he just let her go, he was unwilling to even think about it. She was his wife in the first ce, wasn¡¯t that the case!


    Sang Wan was not having an easy time on her side as well. When Nanny Li knew that Shi Fengju stood outside Ning Garden¡¯s entrance but did not enter and left instead while Sang Wan did not take the initiative to hold him back, she had nock of advice for Sang Wan even though she did not criticise her. She was so long-winded that Sang Wan almost could not stand it.


    But what was even more troubling was that she did not know what was wrong with Shi Yumei. The next morning, when Sang Wan greeted Wang Shi, she actually proposed for Sang Wan to apany her to shop.


    ¡°It seems I haven¡¯t been out shopping after returning to Qingzhou for such a long time? Sister-inw Sang Wan won¡¯t reject such a small offer of mine, right?¡± Shi Yumei seemed polite, but her tone was domineering.


    ¡°Is there something Big Sister needs? Won¡¯t it be more convenient to ask the manager from our own shop, why don¡¯t ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°I am bored of the things from our family, I want to shop in other shops! Sister-inw Sang Wan, are you meaning to say that you don¡¯t want to apany me?¡± Shi Yumei was a little angry when she spoke.


    ¡°Sang Wan, apany your big sister!¡± Wang Shi also wanted her daughter-inw and daughter to have more interaction in order to improve their rtionship. She smiled and said, ¡°Speaking of which, you have been married into our family for almost a year now, but you haven¡¯t been out on the streets much!¡±


    ¡°You see, Mother dotes on you so much!¡± Shi Yumei gave smile that did not seem like a smile.


    Sang Wan turned speechless, and could only smile and agree after a short while. ¡°Oh right. Mother, how about asking Third Sister toe along too? It would be more fun with more of us!¡±


    Sang Wan was really not willing to be out alone with Shi Yumei. At least with someone else with them, the situation would be less awkward.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine too, ask her to join if she has nothing else to do!¡± Wang Shi gave an indifferent smile.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll leave now! Sister-inw!¡± Shi Yumei spoke again.


    ¡°Big Sister, please wait a moment while I ask for someone to prepare the carriage. When the carriage is prepared, I will request for the person to inform Big Sister.¡± Sang Wan smiled and said.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Shi Yumei nodded, ¡°Then hurry up, I don¡¯t have the patience!¡±


    ¡°Yumei!¡± Wang Shi tutted at her.


    ¡°Mother! I¡¯ve always been direct with my words, isn¡¯t everyone used to it all these years!¡± Shi Yumei spoke to her mother like a spoiled child.


    ¡°Big Sister says what she thinks; a straightforward person!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said.


    ¡°Hmph, that¡¯s right. I really hate those who are indirect and y word games. If someone offends me, they can¡¯t me me for not giving them any chance!¡±


    Sang Wanughed but did not reply. She bade farewell before leaving to give the instruction. After all, she and Shi Yumei had never clicked well together and she had already stopped expecting it to happen.


    Sang Wan instructed Zhide to prepare a carriage, while she returned to Ning Garden to have a change of clothes. After putting on a pink fur coat andbing her hair, she inserted two bright jade hairpins and wore her head essory before tying a red mantle embroidered with lotus flowers.


    ¡°Check how much money we have left,¡± Sang Wan instructed Liu Ya. That was the most important thing.


    Liu Ya took a small box over, and her expression seemed a little upset. She smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Mistress, this is all we have. There only four hundred silvers!¡±


    Sang Wan head immediately ached.


    After seeing the extent of the Shi family¡¯s wealth, even Liu Ya used the word ¡°only¡± when speaking about four hundred silvers, let alone Shi Yumei. With this little money, it might not be enough for the things Shi Yumei was going to choose.


    However, Sang Wan only had that much silver on hand. Every month, she would receive twenty silvers, but she had to spend about eleven or twelve silvers on rewarding the servants. That left her with seven to eight silvers to save. Her servants, the headservants, and nannies sometimes came to pay respects to her, but none would give her any money. After all, there was no way their amount of money would be more than the Shi family¡¯s. It might well be peanuts in their young mistress¡¯ eyes! Who would have the face to give her money? Thus, they expressed their gratitude by gifting everything else other than money.


    As a result, she had plenty of fresh fruits, desserts, dishes, perfume, makeup, embroidery, and handmade shoes and socks. She could not possibly exchange them for money, people wouldugh their teeth out if she really did that!


    Consequently, the poorest in the entire household might actually be Sang Wan, the Shi family¡¯s Young MIstress. Luckily, Shi Fengju would sometimes give her some allowance, and that was how she was able to save a few hundred silvers.


    Now, what should she do?


    If they were out shopping, Shi Yumei definitely would not use her own money¡ª even if she did want to, Sang Wan simply could not let her do so. Otherwise, her mother-inw would definitely not be happy if she knew about it!


    Both the master and servant were deeply troubled.


    ¡°Oh, Young Mistress, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Amused at the sight of them, Nanny Li asked curiously.


    ¡°Eldest Missy asked Mistress to apany her out to shop. Mistress is worried about the money!¡± Liu Ya said without any thought.


    Sang Wan could not stop her in time and could only smile. She said in embarrassment, ¡°Who knew that I¡¯d be so poor. Big Sister will surelyugh at me if I cannot afford something decent for her!¡±


    She was more afraid that Shi Yumei would not believe her and thought of her as a miser.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to worry about!¡± Nanny Liughed and said, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯re thinking too much! You are the Young Mistress of our Shi family; which shopkeeper would dare to take your money? Regardless what caught her eye, there¡¯s no need for you to worry. Just ask the shopkeeper to put it on the Shi family¡¯s tab. The servants from the shop will bring the bill directly to Young Master themselves!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled again and said, ¡°In this old servant¡¯s opinion, Young Mistress is too down-to-earth! If Young Mistress has no money, why not ask from Young Master? It is an indisputable logic for you to use Young Master¡¯s money!¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sang Wan just ignored thatst sentence and smiled, ¡°Then I really don¡¯t have to worry!¡±


    Liu Ya also let out a huge sigh of relief. She closed the box and said, ¡°Then this maidservant will put this back properly. There won¡¯t be any need to bring this around anymore!¡±


    ¡°Bringing it along will be better!¡± Sang Wan quickly added, ¡°Just in case we have to use it!¡±


    ¡°Then, bringing half will do,¡± Liu Ya was still very careful with her mistress¡¯ money. She said painstakingly, ¡°This is all of Young Mistress¡¯ savings, it shouldn¡¯t be emptied just like this! Not talking about anything else, but Young Mistress will have to give out big red packets too during the new year!¡±


    When that was mentioned, Nanny Li and Sang Wan bothughed out loud.


    After the carriage was ready and was about to set off, Shi Yumei did not forget to add a few sentences like ¡°Why are you so slow!¡±, ¡°I¡¯ve waited for a long while already!¡±. Sang Wan just let the words pass by without feeling offended. With this sister-inw whose star shed with hers, she felt that she could not afford to be angry.


    Shi Lian had a good temper and was smiling the whole time. She had a demureposure and there was no trace of anger on her.


    Shi Yumei felt it was no longer interesting after grumbling a few more sentences, and shut her mouth unhappily. She rested against the wall of the carriage and secretly regretted not asking Gu Fangzi toe along.

 Chapter 144

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 144</h4>


    ¡°Eldest Missy, which way to?¡± The driver asked with a smile.


    Shi Yumei nced at Sang Wan before answering, ¡°You should ask your young mistress! Your young mistress is the true mistress of Shi household! Don¡¯t you know how to be tactful? If you don¡¯t even know simple etiquette like this, are you not afraid that your young mistress will sack you when we return!¡±


    ¡°I have never been around Qingzhou city and there isn¡¯t anything that I want to buy. Let¡¯s just go with wherever Big Sister wants to go!¡± Sang Wan smiled gently, and casually countered.


    ¡°I¡¯m all for that as well. We¡¯ll go where Big Sister wants to go!¡± Shi Lian quickly expressed her stand. The one who was most afraid of Shi Yumei was actually her. That was because if Shi Yumei became unhappy andined in front of mother, there wouldn¡¯t be anyone who would help her exin herself! She understood the meaning behind Sang Wan¡¯s invitation, but if not for her rtionship with Sang Wan, she would not have agreed toe along.


    Shi Lian was fixated on being docile today and would not speak more than she had to.


    ¡°Go to the east of Qingzhou city and head to Guanghe Main Street. I want to have a look at the jewelry there!¡± Shi Yumei ordered.


    ¡°Yes, Eldest Missy,¡± the driver answered decisively. After swinging his whip, the wheels moved and they travelled towards the direction of Guanghe Main Street.


    Guanghe Main Street was a street famous for its jewelry and cosmetic shops. There were big and small shops on both sides of the broad street and the traffic there was heavy. It was a very bustling area.


    Shi Yumei pulled the curtain and looked outside. She suddenly felt pleased, and sighed softly, ¡°It¡¯s still as crowded as before; nothing here has changed! Oh, no, it has be more bustling than before. There are so many shops that weren¡¯t here in the past! Just look at the front of these shops, really, no other ce canpare!¡±


    After Shi Yumei finished, an awkward silence was left. Both Sang Wan and Shi Lian did not follow up with ament.


    Sang Wan wanted to keep a distance from her as much as possible. It was already enough having to withstand her sarcasm and insults daily; Sang Wan had no obligation to fawn over her. Shi Lian did not want to create trouble for herself so she remained quiet.


    There was a moment of awkwardness. Sang Wan and Shi Lian looked at each other on reflex and they both saw a bit of helplessness in each other¡¯s eyes.


    Shi Lian quicklyughed dryly and said, ¡°Big Sister is right...¡±


    Although Sang Wan and Shi Lian did not exchange any words, their wordlessmunication and mutual understanding still fell into Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes. Thinking about how the both of them normally had a good rtionship, and neither of them were particrly close with her, she suddenly had a sense of emptiness and disappointment. She felt as if she was an outsider and did not fit in.


    How could Shi Yumei stand that? She immediately felt sour, and snorted coldly before saying domineeringly to Shi Lian, ¡°You said I¡¯m right? What am I right about? Tell me? I didn¡¯t expect Third Sister to be very familiar with the city outside!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister... Big Sister, you jest... This is my third time going out onto the streets in my entire life. What would I know...¡± Shi Lian panicked and forced a smile.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t know, then don¡¯t agree so foolishly! Do you know what I was saying? You hypocrite!¡± Shi Yumei red at her once before going on to insult Sang Wan, ¡°Our Shi family has always been honest, don¡¯t learn from a certain someone and say what you don¡¯t mean!¡±


    Shi Lian¡¯s face flushed red and she lowered her head without saying another word. Feeling wronged, she subconsciously looked at Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan did not take note of what Shi Yumei said. Just like a headservant, she smiled gently, ¡°This area looks quite crowded, why don¡¯t we get down and have a look around?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Shi Yumei saw the indifferent expression on Sang Wan and felt even more infuriated instead. She increased her volume and said snappily, ¡°Hurry up! Drop us at Qiong Fang Tower!


    ¡°Qiong Fang Tower... isn¡¯t that at the south of the city, near the florist¡ª¡ª¡± The driver paused momentarily.


    ¡°Yes! We¡¯re going there! What?¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s mood became even worse than before.


    ¡°Yes, yes, right away. Right away!¡± The driver cursed himself secretly for being nosy and got a move on while thinking to himself. He would go whereverthe eldest missy of the family says. Even if she wanted him to drive around in circles, he could only submit. If even Young Mistress did not argue with her, him getting scolded for being nosy was something he brought upon himself!


    Sang Wan and Shi Lian both had no objection. After all, it was not their idea to go shopping, neither was it their objective. Shi Yumei could do whatever she wanted, but so long as they were able to get by this day safely, all was well.


    Qiong Fang Tower was the most famous jewelry shop in the city, focused on doing businesses using top quality jewelry. It was built ten years ago by a Fujian businessman. Today, that Fujian businessman had settled his family in Qingzhou and his jewelry shop had always been doing well. Even though they kept themselves on a low profile, they were the invisible rich and were quite famous among the upper echelons of society, with a yearly earning of at least ten thousand silvers.


    ¡°Oh, isn¡¯t this the Shi family¡¯s Eldest Missy! Pleasee in,e in! You are our honored guest, it¡¯s been so long since I¡¯dst seen you here! And these two are¡ª¡ª¡±


    The shopkeeper immediately greeted Shi Yumei warmly when he saw her, but he was unfamiliar with Sang Wan and Shi Lian.


    ¡°I¡¯ve onlye here twice, but Shopkeeper Sun still recognizes me. You have a really good memory!¡± Shi Yumei immediately felt happy and there was a smile on her face.


    Despite being married for many years, her family doted on her and did not treat her as an outsider. With Shi Yumei¡¯s careless personality, she did not see herself as an outsider. When someone called her ¡°Shi Eldest Missy¡±, she would be happier than usual!


    ¡°Just listen to yourself! Who in this city doesn¡¯t know the Shi family¡¯s eldest missy! Even if it were just once, this old mister mustn¡¯t forget such an important guest!¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled as he invited the three people into the private room, and instructed his subordinate to prepare their best tea.


    ¡°Aiya, Shopkeeper Sun, you¡¯re too polite!¡± Shi Yumeiughed.


    ¡°This old mister was only speaking the truth, but it made Shi Eldest Missyugh!¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled along as he agreed, but gave a questioning look to Shi Yumei, hinting at her to introduce Sang Wan and Shi Lian.


    Once they were seated and tea was served, Shi Yumei nced at Sang Wan subtly before winking at Shopkeeper Sun mischievously. Half jokingly, she said, ¡°This time, I¡¯ll have to test your judgement. Why don¡¯t you guess the identities of these two special guests?¡±


    Shi Lian was dressed in the attire of an unmarried youngdy. Even though she was dressed very well, there was some form of deference in her eyes, and her facial features had a few simrities with Shi Yumei. He could somewhat guess that she must be a missy from the Shi family who was born from a concubine and was not favored. The reason why Shopkeeper Sun was able toe to that conclusion was because he had never seen Shi Lian before. If she were favored, why would the Shi family¡¯s Old Mistress not bring her along when she went out?


    However, the other young woman, who wore a married woman¡¯s hairstyle, had a serene and graceful aura around her. She must belong to a ss which could not be ignored. Even though he and Shi Yumei ignored her coldly on the way in, he never saw her express any sort of awkwardness or looked like she minded. She remained polite and gentle, and was amiable.


    Shopkeeper Sun narrowed his eyes, and smiled, ¡°Since Shi Eldest Missy thinks so highly of this old mister and wants to give a test, this old mister will not refuse the fun! Hehe,¡± After he had finished, he sped his fists together at Sang Wan and bowed with a smile, ¡°If this old mister were to guess wrongly, then I would like to seek forgiveness. After all, it is just for fun! You must be¡ª¡ª the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress?¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper Sun eyes are good, this is indeed our Young Mistress!¡± Zhide smiled and said softly.


    ¡°Aiya, an important guest, an important guest! I didn¡¯t know it was Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress earlier on, please forgive me for any impudence!¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled earnestly.


    Sang Wan smiled slightly, but before she could reply, Shi Yumei robbed her of that chance, ¡°Shopkeeper Sun, you are too polite. This sister-inw of mine is the most polite and generous person, why would she be particr about that!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, that is so, that is so!¡± Shopkeeper Sun looked at Shi Lian and smiled, ¡°Then this must be a missy from your family as well?¡±


    ¡°This is the third missy of our family!¡± Shi Yumei smiled impatiently and said to Shopkeeper Sun, ¡°I say, Shopkeeper Sun, do you have anything good with you? Hurry up and take them out, don¡¯t keep talking about the unnecessary things!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, yes, yes. I will take them out now, I will take them out now! This old mister is just too happy. Ladies, please don¡¯t me me,¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled, and swept a nce across them before asking with an eager smile, ¡°May I know what youdies want to see?¡±


    ¡°Just bring out anything that is good! We¡¯ll only know when we see them!¡± Shi Yumei said.


    ¡°This old mister is foolish!¡± Shopkeeper Sun quickly smiled and covered his mouth. He went and unlocked the most precious items in the shop.


    In total, Shopkeeper Sun took out threeplete sets of exquisite essories and a few other individual precious items. Using four separate trays covered with a piece of red cloth, he presented them to the important guests.


    One set was named ¡°The Drunk Hibiscus¡±, sculptured with pure gold, and matched with red sapphires and emeralds. The main piece was a hibiscus crown made with golden threads and decorated with eight gems. It was made with pure gold and was an exquisite handicraft. Not only were the different colored gems big, their colors were also strikingly beautiful. They had a faint sparkle in them and did not have any impurities. Another set was called the ¡°Lantian Blue Pearl¡±, a dotted handicraft. The hairpin had a phoenix spreading its wings and a pearl in its mouth. There were twelve exquisite pearls the size of longans, thirty-six smaller pearls, and the eyes of the phoenix was made of a natural ck pearl the size of a thumb size. It sparkled greatly and was extremely dazzling. Thest set was named the ¡°Colorful Falling Leaves¡±, using the clearest and best quality jade, matched with pink, bright red, pomegranate red, begonia red, and other shades of red gemstones to make into a flower. The red flower and green leaves were extremely eye-catching and was a unique jewellery piece.


    The other tray had a bracelet with eighteen jade stones, a jade hairpin, a white jade peacock hairpin, red coral agate earrings, and green jade earrings in the shape of water droplets. Everything was top quality, made from skillful artisan. Just one look and they were obviously expensive.


    ¡°You really do have some good things! Qiong Fang Tower is still as famous as before and truly deserves its reputation!¡± Shi Yumei smiled andplimented as she listened to Shopkeeper Sun describe the jewelry.


    ¡°Hehe, you¡¯re too kind! Our shop is only able to let us scrape by, how can wepare ourselves with the Shi family! Youdies are just here out of curiosity! Without a doubt, the best jewelry in Qingzhou can only be found in Liu Li Tower!¡±


    Liu Li Tower was a business set up by the Shi family and has thirteen branches in Jiangnan region.


    ¡°Shopkeeper Sun is too humble!¡± Shi Yumeiplimented, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about the rest, but just these three essories, Liu Li Tower might not even have such valuable items!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, this old mister feels very honored listening to Shi Eldest Missy words! Is Shi Eldest Missy pleased with these?¡± Shopkeeper Sun hurriedly asked.


    Shi Yumei smiled towards Sang Wan and asked, ¡°Sister-inw, what do you think of these three sets?¡±

 Chapter 145

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 145</h4>


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Just by listening to Shopkeeper Sun, each of them are excellent on their own. We¡¯ll take whichever set Big Sister likes! After all, there¡¯s a saying that ¡®Happiness can¡¯t be bought with money!¡¯¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress is right, as long as Eldest Missy likes it!¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled and agreed as he tried to favor both sides.


    ¡°Which set do I like?¡± Shi Yumei gave a sly smile, ¡°What if I like all three sets? Will Sister Sang Wan be willing to buy all of them for me?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression froze a little. Even Shi Lian raised her head in shock, but she quickly lowered her eyes again.


    Shopkeeper Sun was so ecstatic that he felt dizzy and almost could not stand up straight.


    Three sets, three sets! If those three sets were really sold today, he would have a very sumptuous new year ahead!


    The Drunk Hibiscus was priced at eighty thousand silvers. Lantian Pearl and Colourful Falling Leaves was at a hundred and twenty thousand silvers respectively. If all three sets were bought, he could give a discount of a few thousand silvers. At the minimum, he could sell them for three hundred thousand silvers in total! In light of the shop¡¯s agreement, he could gain amission of two percent, so that would be six thousand silvers!


    ¡°Eldest Missy has such good taste!¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled and said, ¡°These three sets are all the best in our shop! There is only one of each set in the world; you will definitely not find a second set elsewhere! They fit Eldest Missy¡¯s status so perfectly!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, what do you think?¡± Shi Yumei smiled and asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s naturally fine,¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°If Big Sister likes them, then we¡¯ll take them all!¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan is so generous!¡± Shi Yumei smiled gleefully and said, ¡°Just a single transaction is worth a few hundred thousand silvers!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, you jest,¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Why would I have so much money on myself? Shopkeeper Sun, please pass the bill onto the Shi family¡¯s Young Master after this!¡±


    Shi Yumei turned queasy and said sarcastically, ¡°Using my younger brother¡¯s money to do you a favor, what a calctive person you are! So befitting of a literary family; very clever!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, your words aren¡¯t right,¡± Sang Wanughed, ¡°Didn¡¯t Big Sister like them? If Big Sister likes them, Lord will definitely have no objection!¡±


    If the money was from Sang Wan, Shi Yumei would not oppose; she had in mind to empty all of Sang Wan¡¯s personal savings. But when Sang Wan mentioned using Shi Fengju¡¯s money, Shi Yumei felt a little uneasy. Her heart would ache if she spent her brother¡¯s money in such a way.


    Shi Yumei raised her head and said to Shopkeeper Sun, ¡°Help me to wrap this Drunk Hibiscus, I want this set!¡± Looking at Sang Wan, she gave a slight smile and said, ¡°Having managed our household for more than half a year, I¡¯m sure Sister Sang Wan must at least have a sum of money, right? I only want this one set, don¡¯t tell me that Sister Sang Wan can¡¯t even afford to pay this little money? ¡±


    Having less than a hundred thousand silvers saved as her personal savings after managing the household for half a year, if word were to be spread by Shi Yumei, who knew what Wang Shi and the Second Shi family would think! If she had a huge sum of money, then all would be well. However, Sang Wan clearly did not but did not wish to be maligned without a reason.


    ¡°The family¡¯s own personal finance definitely has and lots of the money passes through my hand. Since Big Sister had already said it, then I¡¯ll tell the ountant when I return to see if we can use the family¡¯s personal finances instead.¡± Sang Wan acted as if she did not understand what Shi Yumei was saying.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s expression underwent another change, but she did not have the face to state Sang Wan¡¯s personal savings in front of strangers. As such, she merely snorted with a cold expression on her face and turned silent.


    When Sang Wan saw that Shi Yumei finally stopped, she smiled and turned to Shi Lian, ¡°Third Sister, how about choosing one or two pieces as well? You¡¯re already here, you can¡¯t go back empty handed!¡±


    ¡°There isn¡¯t any need to. I don¡¯t wear these often and I already have the ones given to me from gifts given to the family yearly and from Mother as well!¡± Shi Lian quickly refused politely with a smile.


    ¡°Silly girl, your sister-inw brought you out here, so why are you being overly polite? Quickly, pick one or two that you like!¡± Sang Wan smiled as she gazed towards her.


    Shopkeeper Sun also chimed in at the side, pushing the tray with the individual pieces towards Shi Lian.


    Shi Lian could not refuse and smiled as she thanked Sang Wan. After having a look, Shi Lian picked a gold ring embedded with a red ruby and smiled, ¡°I¡¯ll take this!¡±


    ¡°I think this looks better, take this then!¡± Sang Wan smiled and picked up a bracelet with eighteen jade beads before cing it on Shi Lian¡¯s hand, ¡°It looks good. It¡¯ll look even better when you wear it!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress has such a good taste! This is the highest-quality jade beads, theirrge pomegranate size is really hard toe by! This missy will look really good with it!¡± Shopkeeper Sun smiled and said.


    ¡°Really? But this looks a little too expensive!¡± Which young girl does not like pretty jewellery? Shi Lian caressed the beads softly. They had a soft and cool texture with a gentle glimmer, she really liked it as well. However, she was a little worried. She always kept her own status in mind and did not dare topare herself with Shi Yumei.


    ¡°Not expensive, not expensive, this piece is only eight hundred silvers! It is well worth it! Especially since it looks so good on you!¡± Shopkeeper Sun added with a smile.


    ¡°How can you say it¡¯s not expensive when it actually is!¡± Shi Lian was caught by surprise. Just this small bracelet costs eight hundred silvers! She hurriedly tried to take it off.


    However, Sang Wan held her hand lightly and stopped her. Smiling to Shopkeeper Sun, Sang Wan said, ¡°We¡¯ll take this as well!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, but¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°What but? If you like it, then take it!¡± Sang Wan patted her hand lightly and they smiled at each other.


    ¡°Thank you, Sister Sang Wan!¡± Shi Lian smiled and gave her thanks.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be so polite, we are a family!¡± And both of themughed.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan isn¡¯t choosing one or two yourself?¡± Shi Lian asked. But when she nced at the tray again, nothing else seemed to be as precious as the ones Sang Wan was wearing.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need one!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, after which she instructed Shopkeeper Sun to wrap the chosen items.


    Shopkeeper Sun smiled and agreed. He kept the jewelry which they did not choose and left after bidding them farewell.


    Shi Lianughed and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, There isn¡¯t one that Big Brother gifts to Sister Sang Wan that does not cost a sum!¡±


    ¡°You brat, you¡¯re making fun of me now, aren¡¯t you!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m justplimenting Big Brother for doting on Sister Sang Wan, I would never dare to make fun of you!¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Shi Yumei was furiously jealous as she watched their intimacy as they messed with each other. Feeling upset, she could not stand their behavior any longer and stomped off.


    Shi Yumei scolded in her heart: is Shi Lian, that damned brat still considered her sister? She was normally never close with anyone else but became so intimate with a woman who had just entered the household half a year ago. She sure knows how to pick the right one to fawn over in order to gain a support behind her! Don¡¯t Mother and I treat her well? How dare she be so shrewd!


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Lian stood up in shock and was at a loss of what to do.


    Sang Wan got up calmly, and patted Shi Lian¡¯s hand to let her know it was fine before they left the private room together as well.


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Sang Wan called out. ¡°The things you want aren¡¯t packed yet. We¡¯ve to wait a while more!¡±


    Shi Yumei jerked her head and looked at Sang Wan before saying indifferently, ¡°I don¡¯t want to wait, so? Tell Shopkeeper Sun to bring it to our household!¡±


    Sang Wan did not get angry with her and simply smiled, ¡°That¡¯s fine too.¡± With that, she went to sign her name and informed the counter.


    When she turned back, Shi Yumei had already exited the shop.


    Sang Wan and Shi Lian both wore their veil hats, and they exited the shop with Liu Ya, Zhide and Cai Yun.


    When they arrived at the area where horses were drawn, Shi Yumei was already impatient and asked, ¡°What took you so long! I think that you inws have a lot to talk about, have you both not spoken enough? Too bad I¡¯ve dampened your mood!¡±


    ¡°Look at what you are saying, Big Sister!¡± Sang Wan smiled coolly and said, ¡°Oh yes, Big Sister where else do you want to go?¡±


    Shi Yumei saw that Sang Wan did not have any trace of awkwardness and difort when faced with her apologetic expression. That made her even angrier. The world had always revolved around her; everyone would fawn over and want to be around her, since when had she felt such ¡°ill treatment¡±?


    Even Gu Fangzi would have never dared to snatch her spotlight.


    Appreciation was one matter, but she would never allow anyone to ignore her! No matter who that person was!


    Shi Yumei snorted, purposefully cutting in between them and bumped heavily against Shi Lian. She said coldly, ¡°I don¡¯t deserve such honor! You two shop on your own, I¡¯ll go wherever I want to on my own in case I ended up spoiling your mood!¡±


    Sang Wan was about to speak but Shi Lian suddenly groaned loudly. She was bent over and grabbing her left leg as she cried.


    ¡°Missy!¡± Cai Yun held her in shock.


    It turned out that Shi Lian had been bumped towards the horse carriage by Shi Yumei. The carriage shook a little and her left leg was unfortunately positioned at the side of the wheels. The horse pulling the carriage felt the vibration and moved a few steps forward, causing the weight of the carriage to heavily press on Shi Lian¡¯s foot.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong!¡± Sang Wan was startled as well as she hurriedly supported Shi Lian.


    The Shi household¡¯s carriage was made of the best handicraft and wasrger than most others. It weighed around two hundred kilograms; how could it not be painful when it ran across the foot of a delicatedy like Shi Lian?


    Shi Lian was in so much pain that her tears came out and her face was pale and contorted. The unbearable pain made her chest hurt so much that she almost could not breath normally. She inhaled sharply and clung tightly onto Sang Wan¡¯s arm as she shook her head. She wanted to speak, but no words came out.


    ¡°Are you okay? Are you in a lot of pain!¡± Sang Wan creased her eyebrows slightly, and looked at the helpless driver at the side, ¡°What are you doing watching over there, hurry up and find a doctor!¡±


    Shi Yumei stopped the driver and nced indifferently at Shi Lian¡¯s foot. Seeing that there was no blood, she snorted and said simply, ¡°It was just a light bump, so stop with your pretentious act. Who are you acting that way for? Do you want me to apologize?¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, how could you say that!¡± Sang Wan was infuriated.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking to my sister, go mind your own business!¡± Shi Yumeiughed coldly, ¡°You guys can pretend all you want, but forgive this Eldest Missy for not indulging in your act! Driver, drive the carriage. I want to go Brocade Lane!¡±


    ¡°That ¡ª¡ª Eldest Missy!¡± The driver was put on the spot and looked helplessly at Sang Wan. One party was the spoilt and favored Eldest Missy, and the other would be the head of the household in the future. He could not offend either of them.


    ¡°What? Are you not going to listen to me anymore? Want me to fire you when we get back!¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that her brows were arched angrly.


    ¡°Driver, please go ahead!¡± Sang Wan said coolly, ¡°We will head back on our ownter! Big Sister, I am really impressed with you,¡± Sang Wan smiled at Shi Yumei and said, ¡°Why would you want to pull me along to shop with you out of the blue! Why the trouble?¡± Even though you dislike me, you still dragged me along to shop with you. Isn¡¯t that just bringing difort to yourself?

 Chapter 146

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 146</h4>


    Shi Yumei could hear the implications behind Sang Wan¡¯s words and her head throbbed from anger the moment she saw the mockery in her eyes. She gave a scorn and climbed into the carriage without turning back. Why? She was aggravated and wanted to give Sang Wan some trouble. Who knew that this would only upset herself more instead!


    With ast guilty gaze from the driver, the horse carriage quickly disappeared into the rowdy city.


    ¡°Eldest Missy really ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Sang Wan said sternly and red at Liu Ya. Even if a master had faults , a master was still a master, and a servant was never in the position to criticize them. If word were to spread into Shi Yumei¡¯s ear, Liu Ya would definitely suffer greatly.


    Liu Ya¡¯sints stopped immediately and she lowered her head.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I¡¯m sorry! It¡¯s my fault for causing trouble for you¡ª¡ª¡± Shi Lian¡¯s eyes were red as she gave a bitter smile.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that!¡± Sang Wan felt bad and patted Shi Lian¡¯s hand lightly, ¡°If not for me pulling you along, you wouldn¡¯t have been injured! Does it hurt a lot? Can you still walk?¡±


    Shi Lian shook her head, ¡°Sister Sang Wan shouldn¡¯t say that, it has got nothing to do with Sister Sang Wan!¡± When she tried to move her leg, an excruciating pain struck her and her foot could not support her at all. With a muted cry, she fell heavily on Cai Yun and they almost fell onto the ground. She smiled wistfully, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Bear with it a little, we will get a carriage and bring you to see the doctor!¡± Sang Wan saw how her lips were bit so tightly that they almost bled and how there was a thinyer of sweat with stray strands of hair stuck on her forehead.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, don¡¯t worry about me, I can still bear with this.¡± Shi Lian felt so touched that her tears almost fell again. After her biological mother passed away, no one really cared for her other than Cai Yun. But now, she could see real concern on Sang Wan¡¯s face.


    ¡°Silly sister of mine! Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t be afraid! Your sister-inw is here!¡± How could Sang Wan know what Shi Lian was thinking? From the looks of the situation, Shi Lian must be afraid and in great pain. Quickly, she hugged her and pat her back gently.


    This street was in an uptown area. Almost everyone that shopped here would employ their own carriage. Those who rode rental carriages had no business being around here. Time passed and no rental carriages passed by. Sang Wan and the group waited for a long while but did not see any rental carriage.


    Seeing how Shi Lian¡¯s foot looked a little more swollen than before, Sang Wan could not help but be a little more anxious.


    ¡°Liu Ya, go to the nearby restaurant on the opposite side and ask if they have sedan chairs for rent. Ask the owner to send a chair to carry Third Missy and we will have a seat inside the restaurant. Also, have the waiter find us a horse carriage.¡± Looking at the splendid Zhenwei Restaurant, Sang Wan instructed.


    Liu Ya quickly nodded, ¡°Young Mistress, that¡¯s a good idea!¡± She turned away and left for the restaurant.


    Liu Ya crossed the street hastily. Her footsteps were quick and she identally bumped into someone right at the entrance of the restaurant.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m so sorry!¡± Liu Ya quickly bowed and apologised profusely.


    ¡°Do you have eyes, you brat! Who are you bumping into? Are you tired of living!¡± Before the man who was bumped could speak, the servant beside him had already scolded with a face full of contempt.


    Liu Ya was offended by his insults so she raised her head to talk back. But just before she could, she heard a surprising voiceing from over her head, ¡°Eh, it¡¯s you!¡±


    That came from the man she bumped into.


    Liu Ya took a few steps back and looked at him with eyes full of distrust. Her pupils suddenly contracted and she red at him in despise as she hissed, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you, pervert! Please keep your dog under control and don¡¯t let him bark like mad!¡±


    ¡°Who are you calling a dog!¡± The servant barked angrily.


    ¡°You answered it yourself, so why ask me!¡± Liu Ya sneered.


    ¡°You!¡± The servant pulled up his sleeves and rubbed his fists together.


    ¡°Back down, don¡¯t be impolite!¡± Zhuang Weixian scolded his servant and took a good look a Liu Ya before asking with a smile, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    The servant, Gao Wang, did not dare to disobey his master. He gave two grudging looks at Liu Ya before backing down. Liu Ya red back at him challengingly before turning to Zhuang Weixian to say unhappily, ¡°I go wherever I like and it¡¯s none of your business!¡± After she finished, she headed directly to the counter that was by the side.


    Zhuang Weixian smiled and walked over slowly with his hands behind his back, standing at a ce not far from her.


    Liu Ya could feel his presence so she turned around to give him a look of displeasure. However, the restaurant was a public ce and she had no right to judge where others stood. Liu Ya did not want to create more trouble so she held herself back. She took out ten silvers and pushed it towards the counter discreetly before saying courteously, ¡°Are there any avable rooms in the restaurant? Can you book one for me?¡±


    Before the shopkeeper could speak, Zhuang Weixian gave a slight chuckle and continued watching with curiosity.


    The shopkeeper creased his eyebrows and he did not even nce at the note. He said indifferently, ¡°There isn¡¯t any left!¡±


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Liu Ya panicked and thought, ¡°Then, how about a table in the main hall! Pick a table at the corner!¡±


    ¡°There isn¡¯t any left!¡± The shopkeeper shook his head, and forced a smile as he guided kindly, ¡°Missy, turn left after you exit and make a right turn after two streets. There are many small shops there. Missy, should ask over there!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s too far away!¡± Liu Ya shook her head, she looked across at the main hall and pointed, ¡°Shopkeeper, there are clearly empty tables around, why can¡¯t you book one for me?¡±


    ¡°Missy,¡± Belonging in the service sector, the shopkeeper remained courteous. He maintained a gracious attitude and exined patiently to Liu Ya, ¡°The cheapest dish from our restaurant is around five silvers. If a meal does not cost a hundred silvers, an entire table would range at least between seventy to eighty silvers! If this missy still wishes to book a table, you may still do so!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s so expensive!¡± Liu Ya opened her eyes in shock and had a pained look on her face. The cheapest dish was five silvers. Her monthly sry was only three silvers!


    The shopkeeper smiled and said as a matter of fact, ¡°Missy, you should find another restaurant!¡±


    ¡°No!¡±


    Liu Ya¡¯s reaction caught the shopkeeper by surprise. Zhuang Weixian¡¯s thick brows raised a little, and didn¡¯t give it much thought. As a maidservant of the guest who was invited to his mother¡¯s banquet, the household that this brat came from must not be poor. Would she not be able to afford a meal here?


    Liu Ya said, ¡°Then that means that there are still rooms avable, right? No matter the cost, please reserve a room for me. Also, our family¡¯s missy has injured her foot. Please prepare a sedan and apany me to the opposite street to fetch them!¡±


    ¡°Missy,¡± The shopkeeper could not help but to take a second look at Liu Ya¡¯s attire. A thin cotton-padded wear peppered with tiny green flower printings, her hairpin was embedded with tiny gemstones in the shape of small flowers and a skillfully crafted pink fabric begonia flower; she also wore a good-quality jade bangle on her left wrist..


    She must be a head maidservant from a prestigious family.


    The shopkeeper was deeply relieved that he had treated the brat with courtesy just now. He asked inquisitively, ¡°Well, it can be done. But ording to the requirements, you¡¯ll need to pay a deposit of a hundred silvers first.¡±


    ¡°A hundred silvers? So much?¡± It was true that Liu Ya had a note with two hundred silvers on her, but that was Sang Wan¡¯s meagre savings. Just handing it out made her heart ached! After a quick thought about it, Liu Ya asked with a smile, ¡°Can I ask if the bills can be credited instead? Record it in your book, and then get the payment from our young master or headservant?¡±


    In any case, this trouble was caused by Shi Yumei, why should my young mistress spend the money and energy to help her resolve this trouble? If the household funds isn¡¯t authorized to be used then Young Master should be the one paying for it instead! Liu Ya thought through it carefully!


    ¡°Credit?¡± The shopkeeper gave her what appeared to be a smile as he nced at her: Interesting. The shopkeeper asked, ¡°Can I know which family in this city does missy belong to? And who might your young master be¡ª¡ª¡±


    Liu Ya thought that the shopkeeper had agreed to her suggestion and said happily, ¡°My young master is the Shi family¡¯s young master! Just bill it to our Shi household!¡±


    ¡°Shi household?¡± The shopkeeper asked hastily, ¡°Which Shi household?¡±


    Liu Ya was stunned momentarily and spoke without thinking, ¡°Is there more than one Shi household? It¡¯s the Shi household situated on Qing Xi Street!¡±


    ¡°Your young master is the Shi family¡¯s young master, the richest family in all of Qingzhou?¡± The shopkeeper asked in shock.


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Liu Ya smiled and said, ¡°Mister, my young mistress and Third Missy are still waiting at the opposite street! Hurry and prepare a sedan chair! We¡¯ve to hurry over!¡±


    ¡°Eh, Missy, please give us a moment, we¡¯ll follow you in a moment!¡± The shopkeeper nodded and quickly called his subordinates before giving them the instructions.


    ¡°You are a Shi household¡¯s maidservant?¡± Zhuang Weixian went forward in astonishment.


    ¡°Oh, Young Master Zhuang, when did you arrive!¡± The shopkeeper came from behind and bowed respectfully. He smiled in embarrassment, ¡°This old mister must¡¯ve been blind for not attending to Young Master Zhuang. Please forgive me!¡±


    Zhuang Weixian purposely stood at the shopkeeper¡¯s blindspot just now. He shook his hand to show that he did not mind.


    The shopkeeper smiled and invited him to the floor above, ¡°The room that you¡¯ve booked is the second room in the west side on the second floor. Everything is ready, please go ahead!¡±


    ¡°No hurry, you don¡¯t have to attend to me. It¡¯s best to attend to this youngdy here first! I will go up on my ownter!¡± Zhuang Weixian smiled and gave a glimpse at Liu Ya.


    ¡°Hehe, thank you Young Master Zhuang for your understanding!¡± The shopkeeper smiled at Liu Ya and said, ¡°The sedan chair is almost ready. Missy, please wait a while more.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Shopkeeper!¡± Liu Ya smiled and nodded without throwing a nce back at Zhuang Weixian.


    Zhuang Weixian felt a little hurt, and begun to feel indignant. In all his life, this had been the second time he was ignored by someone. Most importantly, the first person to ignore him was also this woman in front of him! Even a small maidservant from the Shi household was so arrogant? No, that couldn¡¯t be. The other maidservants weren¡¯t like this, at least Lan Xiang wasn¡¯t like this! This little brat¡¯s eyes must have grown on top of her head!


    ¡°Are you really a maidservant from the Shi household?¡± Zhuang Weixian gave her an appraising look.


    ¡°What does that have to do with you? Let me warn you, don¡¯t talk incessantly to me, this missy here absolutely loathes strangers who randomly hits on people!¡± Liu Ya replied fiercely.


    ¡°Wei wei wei, why do you speak like that!¡± Gao Wang was so angry that he almost jumped on Liu Ya. With a re from Zhuang Weixian, he quickly backed down again.


    ¡°So fierce! Has your master not taught you proper etiquette?¡± Zhuang Weixian smiled and asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business!¡± Liu Ya moved to the side impatiently and kept a distance from the man who had nothing better to do.


    Zhuang Weixian smiled and said, ¡°Indeed, this has nothing to do with me. But look who¡¯s here, now I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve business with him!¡± Zhuang Weixian smiled and pointed towards the entrance.


    There, Shi Fengju walked in with Zhan Huan from the outside.


    ¡°Young Master!¡± Liu Ya said in surprise then she sprinted over to him, ¡°Young Master!¡±


    Liu Ya was bursting with joy, her smile so brilliant when she finally she saw the head of the family and her support!


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Shi Fengju said in surprise, ¡°Why are you here?¡± He looked around and asked again, ¡°Where¡¯s your young mistress?¡±

 Chapter 147

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 147</h4>


    ¡°Young Master, you¡¯ve to hurry! Young Mistress and Third Missy are on the opposite street; Third Missy is injured! Young Mistress asked me to¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Injured? What happened!¡± Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows and instructed quickly, ¡°What are you waiting for? Lead the way!¡±


    ¡°But¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Now!¡±


    ¡°Brother Shi!¡± Zhuang Weixian smiled and went up to them.


    ¡°Brother Zhuang!¡± Shi Fengju cupped his fists together and said apologetically, ¡°There¡¯s an emergency, I¡¯m afraid I will not be able to make it for our appointment. Let¡¯s have dinner another day.!¡±


    ¡°No worries!¡± Zhuang Weixian smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ve heard everything from your servant. Please go ahead! Your wife and Third Missy are more important!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded and had Liu Ya lead the way. The shopkeeper had already instructed his subordinates to prepare the sedan chair and was about to follow after them. However, Zhuang Weixian smiled and said, ¡°You should save yourselves the trouble. The Shi family¡¯s young master has his own horse carriage. They would most likely send Third Missy straight to the doctor!¡±


    The shopkeeper touched his head and smiled foolishly at himself, ¡°How silly of me!¡± He quickly went to see Shi Fengju off personally. Shi Fengju had already heard about the incident briefly from Liu Ya. After thanking the shopkeeper, he left with her. Zhan Huan quickly went to prepare the horse carriage.


    ¡°Young Master, are we still going upstairs or not?¡± Watching as Zhuang Weixian gazed at the exit with the smile on his face, Gao Wang went forward to ask. His master was supposed to meet with Young Master Shi. Who knew something urgent would happen?


    Zhuang Weixian snapped, ¡°Let¡¯s go! Why are we not!¡± He went up after saying.


    Sang Wan, Shi Lian, Zhide and Cai Yun were waiting anxiously. All of a sudden, Cai Yun and Zhide eximed at the same time, ¡°Young Master!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress, Young Master is here!¡± Zhide held Sang Wan joyfully and said.


    ¡°It really is Big Brother! Liu Ya is so capable!¡± Liu Ya could not help smiling.


    Sang Wan was taken aback and forced a smile.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju hurried towards them and asked worriedly, ¡°Are you alright? Are you hurt anywhere?¡±


    Sang Wan was slightly flustered. The person injured is your sister, not me! Did Liu Ya not tell you? What would your sister think from your behavior!


    ¡°I¡¯m fine! It is Third Sister whose foot is injured,¡± Sang Wan quickly shook her head and sent a chastising look to Liu Ya at the same time. The corner of Liu Ya¡¯s lips went down in indignance. I already told Young Master that Third Missy¡¯s foot was injured. How would I know he would react in such a way!


    Shi Fengju heaved a sigh of relief and turned towards Shi Lian, ¡°Is it severe? Endure a little while more, we will go to see the doctor now.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Thank you Big Brother and Sister Sang Wan!¡± Shi Lian smiled gratefully and was not bothered by Shi Fengju behavior. It was normal for her big brother to care more for his wife. It was not something for her toin about.


    Shi Fengju smiled and asked, ¡°Why are all of you here?¡± Baffled, he arched his eyebrows, ¡°And¡ª¡ª where¡¯s your horse carriage?¡±


    Both his wife and sister appeared here out of the blue. Liu Ya even had to go to a restaurant to borrow a sedan chair. This was all too strange.


    ¡°Eldest Missy wanted our young mistress to apany her to go shopping today! That¡¯s why we¡¯re here!¡± Liu Ya pointed to the Qiong Fang Tower nearby, ¡°We were choosing some jewellery there just now!¡±


    ¡°Oh, then where is Big Sister? Is she still in Qiong Fang Tower?¡± Shi Fengju came to a realization, but became even more confused after that.


    ¡°Eldest Missy had already left!¡± Liu Ya said sorely.


    ¡°Left?¡± Shi Fengju froze, and his expression turned unsightly. He seemed to have somewhat understood. That sister of mine, why is she still¡ª¡ª


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Eldest Missy¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°It was all my fault!¡± Shi Lian saw that Liu Ya was going toin about Shi Yumei. Although It could not be considered aint, saying the truth would have the same effect asining. If Shi Yumei found out about it when she got back, then what awaited would be another wave of conflict. Because of Big Sister Yumei, Sister Sang Wan already had to suffer so much; Shi Lian did not want another conflict to start because of her. But seeing how Sang Wan seemed indifferent about Liu Ya speaking her mind, Shi Lian quickly cut in and smiled apologetically, ¡°It was all because of my carelessness that ended up with the carriage running over my foot. Since Big Sister Yumei still had much to shop, I had to trouble Sister Sang Wan to stay behind and apany me! I am in luck today, who knew that I would bump into Big Brother! I¡¯ve troubled all of you!¡±


    After he heard her, he nced once towards Sang Wan. Sang Wan remained silent and lowered her eyes.


    ¡°You are my sister, this is no trouble,¡± Shi Fengju sighed quietly in his heart before saying, ¡°Really, what important things did my big sister have to buy that she could just leave you here without a care! Let¡¯s go get you to the doctor first; your foot has to receive treatment early!¡±


    Shi Lian nodded softly and said gently, ¡°Big Brother, please don¡¯t me Big Sister Yumei, it was all my carelessness. I ended up dampening her mood and even involved Sister Sang Wan! Really¡ª¡ª if you me Big Sister Yumei, I will feel worse!¡±


    Shi Fengju knew she only said so because she was afraid of the trouble. She would rather suffer silently than stir up trouble. He had a sudden thought that this girl was also his sister from the same father. Compared to Big Sister, they were entirely different. Shi Fenju suddenly felt a twinge of sadness swell within him!


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be saying this anymore!¡± Sang Wan held her arm and said, ¡°Listen to yourself, your words are getting more and more courteous! Seeing the doctor is more important now!¡±


    ¡°Your sister-inw is right! Don¡¯t think too much about it anymore!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    Shi Lian saw how the two were not going to harp on the issue, letting the matter slide, and heaved a huge sigh of relief in her heart as she nodded with a smile.


    After a short while, Zhan Huan arrived on the horse carriage. The group went into the carriage and they headed straight for the doctor.


    Apparently, Shi Lian¡¯s injury was not minor. She could not exert any strength on her injured foot and needed Cai Yun and Zhide to support her on both sides in order to board the carriage. Even so, it took her a while to settle herself inside. Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows even more tightly. Big Sister really crossed the line this time!


    After seeing the doctor and getting the medication, the group returned together. Sang Wan instructed the servants to fetch Shi Lian from the second gate with a smaller sedan chair and also had a few burly maidservants carry Shi Lian into her room.


    Shi Fengju and her followed behind and watched over her as the servantsy her properly on the bed for her to get a good rest. After giving careful instructions to Cai Yun, the couple left together.


    Sang Wan went to Ning Garden and Shi Fengju followed after her.


    Sitting down in a room, Sang Wan felt her mental and physical strength were exhausted from her body. ording to the doctor¡¯s diagnosis, Shi Lian fractured her toe bones. She would need to lie in bed for another two months before she could move as per normal. During the two months, it would be best for her not to leave her bedroom and get more rest.


    Shi Fengju also did not expect Shi Lian¡¯s injury to be this serious. Seeing how Sang Wan remained silent, he smiled and said, ¡°Later, arrange for two more servants to be by Third Sister¡¯s side to take care of her. All the work in her house are taken care of by Cai Yun. I¡¯m afraid she might not be able to handle everything with her master injured!¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Sang Wan sighed and said, ¡°This is all my fault. If I had not insist on dragging her along, it would not have turned out this way!¡±


    Shi Fengju replied, ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself, who would have thought of that! Next time, next time if Big Sister asks you out again, let me know. I will apany you.¡±


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes at him and thought: You left so early in the morning today. If I wanted to ask you toe along, I¡¯d have to be able to find you first! Thinking about how she had to forgive Shi Yumei so simply, Sang Wan was ufortable. She said snappily, ¡°Next time? I would rather risk letting Mother scold me than apany her out again! Anyway, today in Qiong Fang Tower, your big sister bought a jewellery set that costs eighty thousand silvers. I had also picked a bracelet, which costs eight hundred silvers, for Third Sister. They¡¯re all paid by credit so Shopkeeper Sun will be bringing the bill over to you in a few days time.¡±


    Shi Fengju acknowledged it without much thought and smiled, ¡°The things in Qiong Fang Tower is quite good. Why didn¡¯t you get anything for yourself?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need one!¡± Sang Wan said while feeling slightly unhappy. Your big sister was already giving us an icy expression when I chose the bracelet for Third Sister. What would she think if I were to pick one for myself? Who knew what else she would say after that!


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju sighed softly, and paused for a moment before adding with a bitter smile on his face, ¡°Why do I feel like it¡¯s always so hard for you to get along with her? Sang Wan, Sang Wan, to tell you the truth, I have never encountered something as difficult as this in all my life! I really don¡¯t know what to do!¡±


    Sang Wan was stared at him and said bluntly, ¡°Your family spoils your big sister too much! To the extent where she expects the entire world to revolve around her! In any case, she is never the one in the wrong, the fault always lies in others! Anything that doesn¡¯t go her way would be someone else¡¯s fault; she would vent her anger on others! Don¡¯t re at me like that, I will just speak my mind now! Let me tell you, Shi Fengju, no matter what I do, she will see me as a nuisance. In her eyes, I can neverpare to your cousin in every aspect, so why should I have any misgivings?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything, what¡¯s with the tantrum!¡± Shi Fengju did not get angry and found it funny instead. He got closer to her and consoled gently, ¡°Sang Wan, if you have any frustrations, throw them all at me. It¡¯s okay to say these words to me behind closed doors, but please don¡¯t say them in front of my mother or my big sister. I do not want my mother to feel sad. You saw how Brother-inw Zhixian is. Their marriage was arranged by my mother. Even though she says nothing of it, I know that she must be full of regret today and feels ountable for my big sister. That¡¯s why she indulges my big sister a little more. I do not want to be too critical and make her sad! If you don¡¯t like her, then avoid and ignore her, even if it is just for me, put up with her a little, please?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s father was not very supportive of Shi Yumei¡¯s marriage. However, Wang Shi was fond of Ren Zhixian at that time and was also satisfied with his family. As such, she insisted on the marriage. There was also a deeper meaning behind it. Wang Shi had some indignance since she did not have a say on her son¡¯s marriage, so she should at least have a say over her daughter¡¯s, right? No matter what her husband said, her mind remained stubborn. Without a choice, Shi Fengju¡¯s father had to concede.


    Who knew that six to seven yearster, her daughter would return without money and had to bring her husband to rely on her Shi family. Shi Fengju knew that his mother found it hard to ept, so as her son, how could he hurt his mother further?


    Sang Wan gulped and was immediately out of words. If not for Shi Fengju today, she and Shi Lian would be in an even more difficult situation. Throwing her temper at him now was unreasonable of her, but Shi Fengju remained patient with her. How would she dare to continue venting her resentment on him even if she still had any?


    Sang Wan looked away frantically to avoid his eyes while she said, ¡°Should we still inform Mother about this? I¡¯m alright, but I¡¯m afraid that Third Sister¡ª¡ª¡±


    What if Shi Yumei went to Wang Shi and distorted the facts, or exaggerated what happened? What would be of Shi Lian? When that happened, she would no longer be able to help speak for Shi Lian at all.


    One was her eldest sister-inw and the other was her younger sister-inw who belong to another mother. By title, Shi Yumei was obviously closer to her so she couldn¡¯t possibly help her younger sister-inw criticize the faults of her eldest sister-inw.

 Chapter 148

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 148</h4>


    Seeing that Sang Wan could think this way, Shi Fengju knew that things should be fine for Sang Wan for now. He smiled and said, ¡°I will tell Mother and Big Sister about it. Please care for Third Sister more, she is always honest and well-behaved, but who knows how much resentment she had to endure on a daily basis? So please take care of her!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will.¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded.


    Shi Fengju smiled after seeing her smile and really wanted to apologize for the incident that happened the other day, but no words seemed to escape from his mouth. It would be better not to bring it up as it would only make things worse. It¡¯d be better if everyone forgot about it!


    ¡°Are you hungry? You were really busy the entire morning and haven¡¯t had anything to eat!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    Sang Wan suddenly felt hungry and looked at the clock on the table. She eximed, ¡°It¡¯s already thiste!¡± She hurriedly called for someone to ask if lunch was prepared.


    Liu Ya quickly reported that it was prepared and instructed the servants to serve the dishes.


    While heading to the table, Sang Wan asked Shi Fengju with a smile, ¡°How is it so coincidental that Liu Ya bumped into you today? Did she interrupt you at your work?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it!¡± Shi Fengju replied, ¡°I was supposed to meet with the Zhuang family¡¯s young master in the restaurant to discuss about some matters, but we can always do that another day!¡±


    ¡°Young Master Zhuang?¡± Sang Wan smiled and asked, ¡°Old Mistress Zhuang¡¯s son?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°We can be considered childhood friends. Speaking of which, you haven¡¯t seen him before; next time, I¡¯ll bring you with me to meet him.¡±


    Sang Wan found their conversation too personal and did not respond to his invitation. Shi Fengju smiled and did not mention about it further.


    After lunch, Shi Fengju went over to Jiao Garden to find Shi Yumei.


    Hearing a maidservant announce his arrival, Shi Yumei went to receive him personally. She pped andughed, ¡°This is rare, which wind brought you here!¡±


    ¡°Am I not allowed to visit Big Sister?¡± Shi Fengju smiled and walked into the house with her.


    ¡°Of course you¡¯re weed to visit me anytime!¡± Shi Yumei smiled and said, ¡°But who knows if you are here to criticize me!¡±


    ¡°Criticize?¡± Shi Fengju sat down calmly andughed in spite of himself, ¡°Big Sister, why would you say that!¡±


    Shi Yumei instructed a maidservant to serve them tea before she held her handkerchief and gave a frigid smile, ¡°Enough, you know your sister hates being indirect, so stop going through the trouble of putting on an act! Surely you should know what I mean? Or have you lived with a particr someone for too long and contracted this bad habit as well?¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, can we speak more civilly?¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    ¡°Fine, fine! I¡¯ll stop, I¡¯ll stop!¡± Shi Yumei waved her hand indignantly, ¡°That person¡¯s the mistress of this household, what am Ipared to her! Since I can¡¯t afford to offend her, then I might as well just hide somewhere in order to never find trouble for her anymore. Is that alright with you?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re a family, there¡¯s no need to be so forbidding!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°In fact, I hope that Big Sister will visit Sang Wan when you¡¯re bored. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll take a liking to her when you get to know her better.¡±


    ¡°Enough! I know your eyes only have her now! Fengju, just treat it as your big sister being nosy, but Fangzi has invested so much into you; you can¡¯t just forget about herpletely!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Shi Fengju spoke indifferently, but his tone became slightly unnatural, ¡°Fangzi has already married into our family, in what way have I let her down? If she remains dutiful, our Shi family will not mistreat her. Big Sister, did you go shopping with Sang Wan and Third Sister today?¡±


    Shi Yumei could only hold back the words she was about to say and re at Shi Fengju unhappily. I knew you were here to ask about it! She said, ¡°Yes, I normally can¡¯t tell, but your wife gets along quite well with our third sister. I did not want to disturb their quality time so I left first! Did someonein to you, saying that I abandoned them?¡± Shi Yumei widened her eyes in shock and straightened her back as she red at Shi Fengju before snapping, ¡°Why are you here at this time of the day? Did she purposely ask someone to call you back when you were out at work?¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re overthinking again!¡± Shi Fengju said casually, ¡°I just happened to see Sang Wan and Third Sister on the street and brought Third Sister to visit the doctor before returning after that!¡±


    After Shi Fengju spoke, he nced subtly at her before lowering his head to sip his tea.


    Shi Yumi¡¯s expression turned a little dull and she said nonchntly, ¡°Wasn¡¯t it just a light bump from the horse carriage? Was there even a need to visit the doctor? Third Sister is too spoilt!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister doesn¡¯t know?¡± Shi Fengju was astonished then nodded with a sigh, ¡°It seems Big Sister really doesn¡¯t know. Third Sister¡¯s foot is fractured. It wasn¡¯t just a bump and the injury is quite serious. The doctor said she has to rest for two months before she¡¯d be fully recovered. Right now, she cannot even walk and has to stay in bed.¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s expression changed, ¡°Is it really this serious? I was sure the wheels only touched her foot slightly, how can it be this serious!¡±


    ¡°The horse carriage is very heavy. As a woman, how could Third Sister withstand the pressure of the carriage wheel running over her foot?¡± Shi Fengju said, ¡°Luckily, the doctor said that with careful recuperation and diligent application of medication for two months, she¡¯ll be fine and won¡¯t stay handicapped. If not, Third Sister¡¯s future would be ruined!¡±


    Shi Yumei was feeling a little ashamed of herself, but after hearing what Shi fengju said, it sounded like he was putting all the me on her. She said angrily, ¡°My fault then, it¡¯s all my fault! Is this okay for you? If she is fine then good for her. If she bes handicapped, then I will justpensate her!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Listening to his big sister saying such childish words, Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Then what were you trying to imply?¡± Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°If that wasn¡¯t what you meant, then what was the point of youing here to tell me about this?¡±


    ¡°Am I wrong to let Big Sister know about this?¡± Shi Fengju was a little flustered, and stared at Shi Yumei, ¡°Big Sister, touch your heart and tell me, are you really not at fault? If it was you who were hurt and Third Sister left without turning back, how would you think¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°How dare she!¡± Shi Yumei shouted angrily and was instantly put at a loss of words.


    Shi Fengju looked at her for an extended period before saying, ¡°So that¡¯s how Big Sister would react as well! In any case, Third Sister is still our sister, if she is involved in any ident, can you ever rest your heart in this lifetime? Third Sister has a good personality and I don¡¯t remember her ever offending Big Sister, so why would you find her a nuisance? I had always thought I understood Big Sister well, but it seems that isn¡¯t the case! Big Sister, I have no idea what you want, but I¡¯m only here today to inform you about Third Sister¡¯s situation. If you¡¯re ever free, please visit her once in a while! And please do not associate our conversation with Third Sister again. She did not get angry about anything norined to me, please do not overthink again!¡±


    After finishing the words he came to say, he got up and left Jiao Garden.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s lips moved a little, but no words came out.


    ¡°How was I supposed to know that she¡¯s so fragile, am I really so wicked?¡± Shi Yumei mumbled and was feeling sullen deep within her heart.


    ¡°Cousin Yumei!¡± Gu Fangzi slowly came out from behind the partition and held onto Shi Yumei while consoling her, ¡°Don¡¯t say that! Cousin Yumei has always spoken your mind, so how can you be associated with being wicked? This is just an ident, how could you put all the responsibility onto yourself? Big Cousin didn¡¯t mean this too, he was only here to inform you about Third Cousin Shi Lian¡¯s situation and let you rest your worries! Just now, weren¡¯t you telling me that you wished to know if Cousin Shi Lian was injured. Now that you know, you should be feeling more relieved! You had some things to deal with, wasn¡¯t that why you left Sister Sang Wan with Cousin Shi Lian? So this shouldn¡¯t have anything to do with you anymore! And who knows what else might have happened after you left, maybe she was hurt some other way? Sister Sang Wan really is too much, if she was really concerned about Cousin Shi Lian, she should¡¯ve sent her to the doctor without any dy before it became toote. Otherwise, even nothing would be something.¡±


    ¡°Visit the doctor before it bes toote? She finally found this golden opportunity to find fault in me so why would she give it up? From how I see it, Third Sister¡¯s injury now may even be caused by her tardiness! It really is strange how she managed to meet Fengju so coincidentally!¡±


    Shi Yumei gradually became angrier the more she thought about it and confirmed that Sang Wan was a calctive person who plotted against her.


    Of course, Gu Fangzi happy for the development, but she tried to exin on behalf of Sang Wan, ¡°Cousin Yumei, don¡¯t say that! Sister Sang Wan hasn¡¯t been out of the household much so she wouldn¡¯t have experienced such an ident before, much less n it? It may only be her negligence, but it¡¯s not impossible to say it was unintentional¡ª¡ª Cousin Yumei, Sister Sang Wan isn¡¯t such a person, don¡¯t misunderstand! Why don¡¯t I apany Cousin Yumei to pay Ning Garden a visit to settle this matter once and for all?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going!¡± Shi Yumei said angrily, ¡°I¡¯m never bowing down to her! Just who does she think she is! Isn¡¯t she capable of deploying Fengju to speak up for her and teach me a lesson? She¡¯ll be dreaming if she thinks I¡¯ll present myself to her and let her humiliate me!¡±


    Gu Fangzi quickly spoke and said, ¡°We won¡¯t go, we won¡¯t go if you don¡¯t want to! Cousin Yumei, don¡¯t be angry anymore. Anger isn¡¯t good for your body! Forget about it, I¡¯m sure Big Cousin will settle it with Sister Sister Wan. Why don¡¯t we visit Cousin Shi Lian tomorrow? Cousin Yumei, Cousin Shi Lian is still our family!¡±


    Shi Yumei thought about the natural chemistry and intimate rtionship Shi Lian shared with Sang Wan,pared it to the constant nervousness and distant feeling exhibited towards herself, and feel even more upset, ¡°She deserved it for siding with an outsider!¡±


    She felt a sense of exhration and the little guilt towards Shi Lian disappeared as well. Instead, it was reced with a feeling of gratification.


    ¡°I still think we should go!¡± Gu Fangzi continued to coax before whispering in the end, ¡°Not for others, but for Sister Sang Wan to see. Otherwise, this may not sound pleasant, but Cousin Yumei may end up beingbelled as the antagonist this time!¡±


    Shi Yumei suddenly realized it too. She nodded and agreed, ¡°You are right, then that means I have no choice but to visit her!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±


    Shi Yumei could not help but sigh as she held Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand, ¡°Fangzi, you are the only one who is genuinely good to me! Ai, I¡¯m looking forward to the day your mourning period ends and for you to seal the deed with Fengju. When that happens, let¡¯s see what other tricks are up that vixen¡¯s sleeves!¡±


    Gu Fangzi felt a sense of jubtion. She lowered her eyes shyly and held Shi Yumei¡¯s elbow coyly. Shi Yumeiughed and made fun of her more; her mood was feeling better now.


    At Ning Garden, Nanny Li went up to Sang Wan and smiled after Shi Fengju left, ¡°This old servant will send a servant to the study room to bring back the clothes Young Master brought over two days ago!¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback for a moment and understood where Nanny Li wasing from. She forced a smile and said, ¡°I don¡¯t think there is any need to. It may even be a good thing to put a few clothes there to provide convenience for Lord whenever he wishes to change his clothes there. Anyway, there are still clothes here! There¡¯s no need to go through the trouble to bring his clothes back!¡±

 Chapter 149

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 149</h4>


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble!¡± Nanny Li smiled and said, ¡°Young Master already took the initiative to return. Young Mistress, don¡¯t you think you should return the favor? This old servant knows that your skin isn¡¯t thick, so what you say may not necessarily be what you are thinking! But by bringing Young Master¡¯s clothes back, I¡¯m sure he will understand your gesture!¡±


    Sang Wan was at a loss of words. Again, how is this my idea? However, she could not simply tell Nanny Li that she had misunderstood and it was not her idea at all! Today, Shi Fengju had helped her resolve a difficult situation without hesitation; adding that with Nanny Li¡¯s concern, if she were to still bring up the past, it would only disy her pettiness. Nevertheless, her heart was slightly perplexed; it was almost as if he really cared for her.


    Sang Wan also understood that for people like Shi Yumei, who acted unreasonably by her own feelings and had no care for person or venue, putting too much thought into her would only bring trouble to herself!


    Seeing Sang Wan remain silent, Nanny Li made the decision decisively, ¡°This old servant will give the instructions to a servant then! Hehe, seeing Young Mistress back on good terms with Young Master, the heavy rock in my heart is finally lifted! I¡¯m so relieved!¡±


    Even though Zhide and Liu Ya stood quietly by the side, they smiled to show their agreement with Nanny Li¡¯s words. Sang Wan almost broke intoughter. She had thought the cold war between Shi Fengju and her was only known between them, but who knew others were aware of it as well.


    To tell the truth, even without Nanny Li instructing the servants to fetch the clothes from the study room, Shi Fengju already had the intention of moving back tonight. Since Sang Wan was no longer angry at him, why should he still remain in the study room all by himself? Suppose there was nothing he could do if he returned to Ning Garden, at least there was someone there to talk to.


    Of course, he was happier when he heard that a servant from Ning Garden had been sent to pick up his clothes.


    On the next day when Sang Wan went to greet Wang Shi, Wang Shi asked about Shi Lian, ¡°I heard that Shi Lian¡¯s foot was injured by a horse carriage? Just what exactly happened?¡±


    Shi Yumei was present as well and she nced subtly at Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan was a little surprised. She thought that Shi Yumei would have alreadyined and all that awaited her was Wang Shi¡¯s scolding. Who knew Wang Shi still seemed unaware¡ª¡ª Sang Wan knew for a fact that her mother-inw was not someone who would feign ignorance.


    ¡°It happened too quickly, Sang Wan wasn¡¯t able to see it clearly as well. Who knew how the wheel ended up going over her foot. The doctor said she has to rest in bed for two months. I¡¯m afraid Third Sister won¡¯t be able to give Mother her greetings during her recovery period! In any case, it is my fault for not doing a good job in taking care of Third Sister!¡±


    Wang Shi creased her brows lightly and said, ¡°It is fine, the greetings isn¡¯t important. Let her recover properly and take care of her more! You don¡¯t have to me yourself, I know this ident is also out of your control. She¡¯s already old enough to be taking care of herself; as sensible as she may be, why did she end up being so careless!¡±


    Sang Wan thanked Wang Shi and agreed without speaking more than she had to. Deep down, she sighed to herself: it really was all about who crawled out of whose womb! If it was Shi Yumei who got hurt, Wang Shi would have called for her to be taught a lesson. Why wait until now? As for Shi Yumei taking the horse carriage unreasonably, Wang Shi did not mention a word about it.


    At Fu Qu Lodge, Shi Lian did not mind her current state. While tying decorative knots in bed to relieve her boredom, she would asionally make conversation with Cai Yun. After all, the doctor said she wouldn¡¯t end up a handicap, just that was fine for her. In fact, the inconvenience of moving around allowed her to ck out in the open and she felt more carefree than usual!


    ¡°Hehe, Third Cousin is so carefree! Third Cousin sure knows how to find things to pass the time!¡± All of a sudden, Gu Fangzi and Shi Yumei came in hand in hand before their arrival was announced. Shi Lian and Cai Yun only noticed them when they came into her room.


    ¡°Eldest Missy, Miss Gu!¡± Cai Yun, who was sitting by the bedside and engrossed in her discussion with Shi Lian about how the colors of the knots should be matched, received a big surprise and got up quickly to greet the guests.


    ¡°Big Sister Yumei! Cousin Fangzi!¡± Shi Lian quickly sat up and nodded to greet them.


    Seeing how Shi Lian seemed like she was in a good state and was not in pain, Shi Yumei thought that Gu Fangzi was right. She did not feel bad towards Shi Lian and instead suspected that Shi Lian might have feigned the injury on her foot. She threw a few suspicious looks at her.


    ¡°Third Cousin Shi Lian, no need to be so polite! Be careful not to hurt your injury!¡± Gu Fangzi sat at the bedside, and patted Shi Lian¡¯s hand.


    Cai Yun immediately went to bring a chair in for Shi Yumei when she saw her standing at a side before leaving to prepare the tea.


    Gu Fangzi gave a careful look at Shi Lian before smiling to Shi Yumei, ¡°Cousin Shi Lian seems in good health. Looks like she¡¯s recuperating well since she¡¯s in a good mood!¡±


    Shi Yumei smiled and her words could not help but bring a few thorns when she spoke, ¡°You¡¯re right! I thought she would be feeling unhappy and came to console her. It seems Third Sister is well-versed in taking care of herself. I must have overthought!¡±


    Shi Lian¡¯s face stiffened slightly. She got injured without a good cause so how was possible for her not to feel any unhappy? But she was clear that even if she were unhappy, nothing could be changed. Make her big sister apologize to her? She did not even dare to harbor such a thought! She was already very grateful for the care given to her by her big brother and his wife!


    Who knew that not showing a despairing state would be a fault for Shi Yumei to pick on. Shi Lian knew that if she really had her hair messy and a look of depression with traces of tears on her face while being in bed melodramatically, her big sister was sure to be angry at that sight; she would surely conclude that she was acting for her to see!


    All in all, this ident was made entirely her fault!


    Shi Lian could not help feeling infuriated, but she had always been good at holding herself back. She acted as if she did not hear Shi Yumei¡¯s words and lowered her eyes shyly, ¡°It¡¯s only because I¡¯ve always preferred sedentary activities to being active, so I didn¡¯t think much about being injured! I¡¯m really grateful that Big Sister Yumei worried about me and came to visit me!¡±


    ¡°Oh just listen to this small mouth! You are getting better at talking!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and acted intimate. She pinched Shi Lian¡¯s cheeks lightly and said jokingly, ¡°Everyone says Third Cousin is too well-behaved and doesn¡¯t like to talk. But I find you quite witty!¡±


    Shi Yumei nodded unhappily, ¡°Fangzi, you are very right. Our sister sure brought us a surprise!¡±


    Shi Lian smiled foolishly and said, ¡°I am very flustered by Big Sister Yumei and Cousin Fangzi¡¯spliments!¡±


    Just who really is the one acting foolish! Shi Yumei rolled her eyes quietly, while Gu Fangzi pursed her lips and smiled.


    In a moment, the tea was ready and Shi Lian invited them to have a cup politely. Shi Yumei and Gu Fangzi each took a cup for themselves.


    Opening the lid, the hot aroma of the tea wafted and diffused into the air. Gu Fangzi took a small sniff and lowered her head to drink a sip beforeplimenting, ¡°What a fine quality Long Jing tea, Sister Sang Wan must have given it to you right? I remember that Big Cousin loves this tea the most. Every year, Ning Garden is given quite a lot of it!¡±


    Without a doubt, this tea was given by Sang Wan. If not her, then who else? The tea leaves given by the household, who knew how much discount was given before the leaves were allocated to her. It was definitely not a tea for a young missy!


    Seeing how Shi Yumei¡¯s expression changed slightly, Shi Lian thought hatefully to herself: it must be because Big Sister Sang Wan and I have gotten close recently and ended up offending this petty cousin. She is solely to me.


    How could Shi Yumei not be angry after hearing that Sang Wan took Shi Fengju¡¯s favorite tea leaves and gave it to someone else?


    Shi Yumei smiled coldly and said casually, ¡°Your big sister-inw really dotes on you a lot! She even sent the tea leaves to you! Why? Did the household not give you a proper share?¡±


    Cai Yun saw how this was a good chance toin and wanted to do so, but she was stopped with a re by Shi Lian.


    ¡°Of course the usual portion was given and their delivery every month was never dyed!¡± Shi Lian smiled and said, ¡°However, the doctor said that I can only drink teas that are more mild these few days. Even though Pu¡¯er tea is good for the stomach, it isn¡¯t suitable for me to drink for the time being. That is why Big Sister Sang Wan sent some Long Jing tea to me yesterday. I know that Brother Fengju usually drinks this and wanted to refuse, but Big Sister Sang Wan insisted that it was from him and wanted me to keep them. That¡¯s why I epted them. Today is the first time having this tea as well!¡±


    Shi Yumei finally stopped, but Gu Fangzi quickly smiled and said ¡°Oh so that¡¯s why. Big Cousin usually isn¡¯t very concerned, who knew that he would specially ask Sister Sang Wan to send the tea leaves to you! Looks like Third Cousin¡¯s ident is a blessing in disguise!¡± After she finished, she held Shi Lian¡¯s hand andughed intimately.


    Shi Lian felt anger boiling deep down inside her and thought to herself: Were you not given lots of things by Big Brother Fengju in the past? Even if it was a small dessert or a fresh fruit, he would always think about you first. Isn¡¯t it a little too much to try and incite conflict between Big Sister Yumei and me?


    Shi Lian widened her eyes in shock andughed in surprise, ¡°Really? I had always thought that Big Brother was a very caring person! But, hehe, Cousin Fangzi is partly right, this truly is is really a blessing in disguise for me. Big Brother has never given me tea leaves in the past, or even fruits and desserts. You don¡¯t know how happy I was yesterday! And Big Sister Yumei and Cousin Fangzi too, you rarelye by to visit me, I¡¯m so happy!¡±


    Gu Fangzi suddenly reminisced how Shi Fengju had treated her well and felt slightly awkward. ncing unintentionally towards Shi Yumei, their gaze met and Gu Fangzi knew that Shi Yumei was thinking about the past too. Gu Fangzi thought resentfully: how dare an unfavoured concubine¡¯s daughter. If not for Sang Wan, that vixen supporting behind your back, you wouldn¡¯t even dare to say that to me!


    ¡°Listen to what Third Cousin is saying! If we visit too often, you would only find us troublesome!¡± Gu Fangziughed again.


    ¡°Why would I! We are all sisters!¡± Shi Lian smiled meekly.


    At this moment, Sang Wan arrived as well. When she heard that Shi Yumei and Gu Fangzi were present, she subconsciously wanted to avoid meeting them. However, a maidservant in Fu Qu Lodge had already spotted her. Sang Wan had no choice but to enter with a smile.


    ¡°Big Sister-inw!¡±


    ¡°Sister!¡±


    Shi Lian secretly let out a sigh of relief as Gu Fangzi hurriedly stood up. With both hands loosely held together on her front torso, she bent her knees slightly to greet Sang Wan. Only Shi Yumei sat stationary and continued drinking her tea.


    ¡°Big Sister and Sister Fangzi are both here!¡± Sang Wan smiled and greeted them. A maidservant hurriedly moved a chair to her.


    ¡°Why? Do you find it strange for us to be here? Maybe that¡¯s because we are people without conscience and shouldn¡¯t be here. After all, we cannotpare ourselves to you! You are here because you are genuinely concerned about Third Sister!¡± Nothing from Shi Yumei¡¯s mouth would not sound prickly and sarcastic when speaking to Sang Wan.

 Chapter 150

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 150</h4>


    Sang Wan pretended to not hear her. She sat on the bedside where Gu Fangzi previously sat on instead of finding a chair before asking Shi Lian with a smile, ¡°Your oldest brother asked me to visit you. How are you feeling right now, are you feeling better now? Is the medicine that you¡¯re using alright? Did the wound get infected? Have you been sleeping well at night? Does it hurt a lot?¡±


    Seeing that Sang Wan ignored her, Shi Yumei was furious. She threw a harsh re at Sang Wan, but not a word could escape her mouth. After all, there was no way she could just repeat what she said to make Sang Wan hear her.


    Gu Fangzi remained docile as she stood at the side. She had a timid look and seemed to want nothing to do with the conflict. But deep down, she earnestly wished for Shi Yumei to argue with Sang Wan.


    Feeling slightly surprised, Shi Lian¡¯s eyes twitched but she would not embarrass Sang Wan. Since that Sang Wan pretended not to hear, she would do the same as well. She answered Sang Wan¡¯s questions with a smile and show appreciation for her and Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Seeing that Third Sister seems fine, I can be at ease now! I will let Mother-inw and your oldest brother know!¡± After Sang Wan received her answers, she felt relieved. She returned to her sensed and smiled at Shi Yumei apologetically before saying, ¡°Just now, what did Big Sister say? I¡¯m really sorry, I wasn¡¯t able to hear you clearly...¡±


    ¡°Humph!¡± Shi Yumei sneered, ¡°Whether or not you heard me clearly, only you will know!¡±


    Hearing that, Sang Wan could only smile.


    That angered Shi Yumei further and she sneered as she said, ¡°You are indeed in charge of this household; you¡¯re in a different ss from everyone else! Just forget about whether or not you heard me. The words from people like me aren¡¯t important, why would the mistress of the Shi household care at all?¡±


    Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve always listened to Big Sister. Big Sister, you¡¯ve wronged me. Big Sister always told me to serve my husband wholeheartedly and treat him as my god. My husband gave quite a lot of instructions to me today so I was afraid that I might leave something out and disappoint my husband. That¡¯s why I was in a hurry to ask Third Sister all the questions! Big Sister was here earlier than me, which means that Big Sister is also concerned about Third Sister, isn¡¯t that right? But who knew that I couldn¡¯t perform multiple tasks at the same time and missed Big Sister¡¯s words! Since we¡¯re all concerned about Third Sister, I hope Big Sister won¡¯t me me for that, will you?¡±


    When Gu Fangzi heard Sang Wan mention Shi Fengju, she couldn¡¯t help but feel sour and jealous, and raised her gaze to re at her.


    Shi Yumei did not expect her to say something so reasonable and her face turned from red to white in an instant. It was regrettable that she could not refute sarcastically!


    ¡°By the way, Big Sister!¡± Sang Wan said again with a smile, ¡°Since I¡¯ve ended up running into Big Sister here, then I shall take this chance to let Big Sister know so that I can save the need to send a servant to inform you! My husband said that since it¡¯s going to be Lunar New Year soon, Big Sister and Brother-inw Zhixian might have to spend more, so the allowance for next month will be given to you a month in advance. I¡¯ve already prepared the money. I¡¯ll send someone to deliver it to you in the afternoon!¡± As she spoke, she stood up and smile, ¡°If Big Sister and Sister Fangzi have the time, please send more time with Third Sister. I have some tasks to handle so I¡¯ll be leaving first! Third Sister, let the servants tell me if there¡¯s anything you need, there¡¯s no need to be courteous! Mother-inw and your oldest brother have specially instructed so!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Big Sister Sang Wan. Could Big Sister Sang Wan help me send my thanks over to Mother and my oldest brother? I will pay my visit to them when I recover!¡± Shi Lian hurriedly said with an apologetic smile while secretlyining in her heart: Big Sister Sang Wan, please don¡¯t leave! At least until they leave! If you leave now, how am I supposed to handle them!


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for Third Sister to be so courteous! Rest well, I will let Mother-inw and my husband know!¡± Sang Wan smiled, and left with her servants after giving Shi Yumei and Gu Fangzi a slight nod.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s expression did not look too well. Suppressing the anger which engulfed her heart, she stood up gravely before leaving together with Gu Fangzi. She thought to herself: Just who do you think you are? How dare you tell me what to do? Why would I stay just because you said so? Why must I listen to you!


    After seeing that they were about to leave, Shi Lian was relieved and hurriedly sent Cai Yun to see them off before letting out a long sigh of relief.


    A few dayster, when Sang Wan returned from handling some household matters, Nanny Li invited her to a room with a smile on her face. She pointed at something on the hard bed and said, ¡°Young Mistress, look! Young Master has sent someone to bring this back for you!¡±


    The moment Sang Wan entered, she saw a set of clothes that were folded neatly and a jewelry box that was slightly longer than a foot, iid with seashells and coated withcquer,ying on the side of the bed. Just when she was about to ask about it, she quickly changed her mind and smiled, ¡°Hasn¡¯t all the new clothes been given? I¡¯ve burdened him with too much expenses again!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because Young Master has only you in mind. Young Mistress, you should just enjoy the gift! Young Master has told us that these were made specially for you to wear during the Lunar New Year when peoplee and visit. These were all made from newly acquired materials, quickly Young Mistress, have a look!¡± As Nanny Li spoke, she had Liu Ya and Zhide unfold the clothes for Sang Wan to see.


    There was an orangerge-sleeved upper garment with an interlocking chrysanthemum pattern and a pleated dress patterned differently but in a lighter orange; a tapestried outer coat with peony and lotus pattern, made with yellow silk, and a pale-blue dress with a design of floral pattern; a red robe patterned with hundreds of butterflies that were so exquisite that it was as if they were real; a green dress patterned hibiscus flowers and sprinkled with gold; not forgetting a lynx fur cloak and a red camlet cloak.


    Liu Ya and Zhide held the clothes to show them to Sang Wan. The clothes were extremely gorgeous and luxurious, and everyone started praising, saying that only the young mistress would deserve such luxurious clothes made with such materials. They joked about how no one else could be more important in Shi Fengju¡¯s heart than Sang Wan for they had never seen him take the initiative to prepare new clothes for anyone else!


    As Sang Wan listened, she smiled subconsciously. Sometimes, Shi Fengju could be so nice to her, to the extent where she couldn¡¯t tell whether it was real or fake. If she didn¡¯t have the terrible nightmare-like experiences in her previous life, she believed that she would have drowned in his sweetness and would never be able to wake up. However, the nightmares were just like a thorn deep in her heart; whenever she felt happy, the thorn would prick her to remind her of her previous life.


    Sang Wan smiled. She instructed Liu Ya to keep them properly and her gaze moved to the jewelry box.


    Nanny Li immediately opened it and said happily, ¡°Just by the look of the box¡¯s craftsmanship, the quality of the items inside must be just as superior! Young Mistress, look! Look at how gorgeous this essory is! These pearls and jades are all done so well!¡±


    Nanny Li was full of praise as she took out a hairpin that had a butterfly and flower, dotted with jade and embedded with pearls. The butterfly feelers were made to sway from any slight movements, and the wings were dotted with jade and embedded with beads which made it look as if it was about to fly. The hairpin felt extremely alive. Nanny Li held the hairpin carefully with both hands and handed it over to Sang Wan before saying with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, look! This hairpin dotted with jade matches the clothes just right; Young Master has really good taste!¡±


    Liu Ya and Zhide looked at each other in amazement. Wasn¡¯t this jewelry the ¡°Lantian Blue Pearl¡± that they saw at Qiong Fang Tower the other day?


    It was worth a hundred and twenty thousand silvers! How could it not be gorgeous! As Liu Ya murmured to herself, she was happy for Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan smiled and received the hairpin. The weight was quite heavy. As the angle and the lighting changed, the color of the dotted jade became more magnificent.


    ¡°Young Mistress, this old servant will help you to put it on now!¡± Nanny Li said gleefully.


    ¡°Keep it aside first!¡± Sang Wan put it back and said with a smile, ¡°I know this is precious with just a nce at it; I¡¯ll wear it during Lunar New Year!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea too, else Young Mistress¡¯s hair may have to be redone! In any case, since Young Mistress is so beautiful, anything worn by you would look good!¡± Nanny Li grinned as she instructed Liu Ya and Zhide to keep everything aside.


    Sang Wan smiled and thought to herself: If Shi Yumei ever saw me wearing this now, who knows what she would say! Who would want to listen to her nonsense? If Shi Fengju wasn¡¯t with me, I would never wear them.


    Nanny Li continued to praise Shi Fengju without stop and she persuaded Sang Wan to treat him better and care more for him. Sang Wan almost couldn¡¯t withstand her nagging, so she quickly changed the topic when she suddenly recalled something, then gestured for all the servants to leave, ¡°I have something to ask Nanny, is Nanny busy right now?¡±


    ¡°Please, go ahead and ask this old servant anything, this old servant will listen!¡± Nanny Li said with a smile. She finally stopped praising Shi Fengju as she stood up straight and focused fully on Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan thought it over and said carefully, ¡°I heard that Zhide¡¯s mother wants her to receive grace to let her leave the household and get married. Is that true?¡±


    Hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words, Nanny Li¡¯s face changed slightly and she felt somewhat nervous. She smiled and answered hurriedly, ¡°Then I shall not hide this from Young Mistress. Yang Quan¡¯s wife, also Zhide¡¯s mother, did have that in mind. But Zhide is only seventeen this year, she can still serve Young Mistress for another two or three years. This old servant thinks that Zhide is very reliable and is a great help to Young Mistress! This matter isn¡¯t anything important, this old servant will tell Yang Quan¡¯s wife to dy this to the near future.¡±


    Servants in wealthy or influential families normally left the household to get married at the age of twenty. There were some who left at the age of twenty-two to twenty-three. The Yang family was a family who had been serving the household for the past two or three generations and wanted to seek grace for their daughter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wish to stop her.¡± Sang Wan hurriedly said with a smile, ¡°This all depends on Zhide herself, if she wants to leave, I will allow it as well. She can no longer be considered young anymore so it wouldn¡¯t be good if we force her to stay! The only thing that bothers me is that once she leaves, I would have to trouble Nanny to find me another reliable servant as soon as possible.¡±


    Not too long ago, Sang Wan helped Zhide escape from Ren Zhixian. If Zhide wanted to leave the household and get married just a month or two after the incident, it wouldn¡¯t be hard to tell that she was an ungrateful person who only cared for herself, so she wouldn¡¯t be useful even if she were to stay; it would make Sang Wan ufortable instead. It would be better to let her go in order to maintain a good rtionship between master and servant.


    Moreover, Sang Wan secretly suspected that even though it may be Zhide¡¯s parents who mentioned it first, who knew if it was her who incited it and nned to quickly leave this ce? If that was the case, then it would be even more dangerous to have her remain.


    Nanny Li kept quiet for a while after hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words. In the end, she nodded her head and said, ¡°Young Mistress is benevolent! Actually, the Yang family was thinking of arranging a marriage for Zhide with the youngest son of Head Servant Jin, the arrangements between both families are mostly settled! Since we are all in this household, the arrangement can be settled on first, there is really no need to rush at this moment. Young Mistress, Zhide has been serving in Ning Garden for many years and is quite knowledgeable about this ce. If we were to find someone else, who knows when she will be familiar with all of it! By then, if Young Mistress feels dissatisfied with her, things won¡¯t end up pretty!¡±

 Chapter 151

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 151</h4>


    However, Sang Wan remained stubborn on this. She shook her head andughed, ¡°I¡¯ve never liked to impose on others, so I think this will all have to depend on Zhide! Nanny Li, please ask her and tell her that it was me who told her to speak her mind without any worries! She had wholeheartedly served in Ning Garden for so many years; it¡¯s not impossible for her to be granted grace!¡±


    Nanny Li could only stop persuading and had toply with Sang Wan. Even so, she felt it was a pity. It could be said that she had watched Zhide grow up. Although thatss could be overly rational and mindful at times, she was very reliable. So as long as she had agreed to it, she would not try to y tricks, which could be very reassuring. If she left, Hong Ye was not someone who could take charge and Liu Ya even more so. Even if she were to nurture a new servant, it would have to depend on fate and luck as well!


    In fact, Yang Quan¡¯s wife dide to Ning Garden to seek grace for her daughter a few days ago. However, when Nanny Li found out, she stopped her unintentionally. Yang Quan¡¯s wife was tactful enough to do her a favor by not mentioning it.


    Since everything was quiet for a few days, Nanny Li felt relieved as she thought that Yang Quan¡¯s wife had finally given up. Who knew that the old woman was so cunning that even Sang Wan heard about it without her saying it out, which led to Sang Wan asking her about it.


    ¡°Even if Zhide were willing to leave the household, this old servant thinks that it shouldn¡¯t be revisited until the new year has passed! Either in March or April when there isn¡¯t much to handle in the household would be a good time. What does Young Mistress think?¡± Nanny Li spoke again with a smile.


    She would hurry to find two or three reliable new servants and let Zhide train them first. After which, she would select and gradually foster the best by herself. Having that few months to do so was better than none.


    More importantly, Second Young Master Sang¡¯s examination results would be out by then. May Bodhisattva¡¯s blessing be upon him so that he would graduate to be an official. That way, Young Mistress would have another pir to support her and no one would ever dare to make trouble in Ning Garden anymore!


    Sang Wan was also aware that the lunar new year was around the corner and there would be lots to do, therefore, it would not be good to restructure the duties for the time being. So she nodded and smiled, ¡°Nanny Li¡¯s thoughts are thorough. Please inform Zhide clearly!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Nanny Li secretly shook her head to herself. Young Mistress was being too cautious! Zhide was nothing but a servant; there was no need to inform her at all!


    Who knew that Zhide¡¯s response would please Nanny Li. Even before Nanny Li could finish, Zhide¡¯s expression changed slightly and she hurriedly said, ¡°Nanny, it was this servant¡¯s mother who made the decision by herself, this servant does not wish to leave yet! This servant still wants to serve Young Mistress for a few more years!¡±


    Nanny Li was startled and could not utter a single word. The first thought which came to her mind was whether this servant was bewitched?


    If it were Hong Ye or any other servant, Nanny Li would have believed them, but she really couldn¡¯t bring herself to when it came to Zhide. Zhide had never liked being officious; with such an opportunity ced in front of her, she actually went as far as to refuse it?


    ¡°Let me finish first!¡± Nanny Li thought after a short while and decided not to go with the flow, and to convey the young mistress¡¯s words clearly so that her kindness would not be abusedter in the future.


    Nanny Li then smiled, ¡°Since Young Mistress has sent me to ask you about it, it means she was being sincere and not toying with you! You have nothing to worry about; if you really want to leave, just a nod will be enough! Don¡¯t worry, Young Mistress is not someone who would purposely test your intentions. You have always been cautious, so please don¡¯t be mistaken!¡±


    Zhide was slightly disappointed knowing that Nanny Li could not put her full trust in her. But it was no wonder, she had always refused to say anything beyond what she had to and would always put herself away from harm¡¯s way if something was not beneficial for her. The reason why Nanny Li kept her was merely because of the fact that she was dutiful and serious in her tasks. That was also the reason why she could keep a foothold.


    ¡°Nanny, what this servant said is truly what this servant is thinking. This servant still wishes to serve Young Mistress for a few more years and doesn¡¯t want to leave yet. Nanny, please let Young Mistress know!¡± Zhide affirmed.


    Nanny Li¡¯s expression remained collected, but she still had some doubts in her heart. After a second thought, she spoke again with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress¡¯s kindness towards you wasn¡¯t in vain if you can think this way, but do your parents express the same thoughts as you?¡±


    Zhide immediately understood. It must have been the marriage that started all this. Her face turned slightly red. Head Servant Jin was a nice person, and his son¡¯s reputation was not bad. Zhide had met him a few times before, and she had no objection to the marriage. However, she did not want to get married so soon.


    ¡°My parents will listen to my opinion. Nanny, please do not worry.¡± Zhide hurriedly said.


    After hearing her, Nanny Li stopped trying to persuade any further and finally seemed happier. She nodded and smiled, ¡°This will also be good, you can leave after another three or four years. Young Mistress will definitely not mistreat you! Even I would like you to stay as well; after all, you are familiar with everything around here since you have been serving in Ning Garden for so many years. In fact, Young Mistress has always given a thought to her servants! I think it would be better if you let Young Mistress know yourself!¡±


    Zhide knew Nanny Li¡¯s purpose was to have her prove her loyalty in front of Sang Wan to please her, so she answered with a smile and followed Nanny Li to Sang Wan¡¯s ce.


    Nanny Li left right after she informed Sang Wan and left Zhide to be alone with Sang Wan.


    Without waiting for Sang Wan to question, Zhide had already knelt on the floor and kowtowed tearily, ¡°Young Mistress, this servant wishes to continue serving Young Mistress wholeheartedly. Please let this servant stay! From Young Mistress¡¯ kindness towards this servant, this servant ought to serve you for my entire life, how can I just leave so selfishly? This servant begs Young Mistress to grant this servant¡¯s wish!¡±


    After the recent incident that had happened to Zhide, there was not much change so Sang Wan thought she had forgotten about it. Of course, she would not purposely have her repay the kindness. On the contrary, the reason why she helped her was because she could sympathize with her, and she was not expecting her to feel entirely grateful at all. But now that Zhide had said so, Sang Wan felt sorry to have mistaken her.


    ¡°Hurry and stand!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly waved and smiled, ¡°It isn¡¯t anything serious, so there¡¯s no need for you to feel restrained by it. I will not stop you if you want to leave. Of course, it will be good if you are willing to stay!¡±


    ¡°This servant will stay!¡± As Zhide kowtowed and thanked Sang Wan for her kindness, she stood up and said, ¡°This servant wants to stay to help Young Mistress. As this servant had said before, my life belongs to Young Mistress after that incident, and this servant has never forgotten about it!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to do this to yourself!¡± Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but sigh lightly andughed, ¡°After hearing you say so, I feel like I¡¯m going to be in some great danger soon!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress,¡± Zhide said with a serious face, ¡°That is exactly what this servant thinks.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed as she was taken aback.


    Zhide raised up her gaze to look at Sang Wan before saying calmly, ¡°This servant had always meant to tell Young Mistress a long time ago, but couldn¡¯t find the right time to say it. Young Mistress surely hasn¡¯t forgotten that Miss Gu¡¯s mourning period will be over on the second month after the lunar new year. Miss Gu¡¯s trickery,¡± Zhide paused for a while and continued, ¡°This servant has seen a lot... With Eldest Missy now in the household, her temper...Young Mistress, this servant does not wish to boast, but with this servant by your side for this period of time, this servant will be of use to you.¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but shiver slightly and her expression changed again.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be troubling you from now on!¡± Sang Wan sighed lightly and said, ¡°I never would have thought that your wholehearted intentions were for me!¡± As she spoke, she joked again, ¡°You are also being foolish, since you are clear about it, wouldn¡¯t it be best for you to avoid it then? Why let yourself be involved?¡±


    Zhide said, ¡°Although this servant is not well born, this servant is still full of gratitude towards Young Mistress. Young Mistress can put your fullest trust in this servant from now on. No matter what it is, this servant will obey every instruction from Young Mistress.¡±


    Her words were more powerful than any other promises. Sang Wan believed that as long as it was Zhide who said so, there was no ce for any doubts.


    ¡°Good, with your words, it cannot be any better!¡± Sang Wan finally nodded and smiled.


    ¡°As long as Young Mistress trusts this servant, this servant will also feel relief!¡± Zhide let out a sigh of relief and they looked at each other before smiling.


    In a blink of an eye, it was now the final month before the new year. All arrangements had been given to the shopkeepers and workers, and those who were supposed to return home for their holidays had already departed as well. All transactions were in order; and every record which were supposed to be tidied up were cleared as well. The rest were left to be done in the first month of theing year.


    As per usual, this was the month Shi Fengju had the most avable time. He did not have to be present at the stores everyday and could rest at home. He seldom had chances to rest for a few days in an entire year like now. Wang Shi had allowed him not to greet her every morning as she cared for her own son dearly and wanted to let him have a good rest. At the same time, she had also allowed Sang Wan not to greet her, as she wanted Sang Wan to focus on attending to her own husband.


    Nevertheless, Shi Fengju did not stop going over to greet her, although he was justter than normal. The couple would often go together, a while after breakfast, to apany Wang Shi by staying and talking with her.


    Of course, Wang Shi was extremely pleased with her son and daughter-inw.


    On this day when the two returned to Ning Garden from Wang Shi¡¯s ce not too long ago and were taking off the thick fur cloaks whileining about the cold weather, Xiu Chun, who served by Wang Shi¡¯s side, hurried in before they could sit down for a cup of hot tea. She smiled, ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress! Old Mistress wishes to have you over for something urgent!¡±


    The two of them looked at each other in surprise. Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Why? Is Mother bored and wants to have a game with us? Since your young mistress still has something else to settle, she will not be going over. Let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll go with you!¡±


    Xiu Chun hurriedly smiled and said, ¡°Young Master, it would be best if Young Mistress coulde along as well! Old Mistress has received a letter from what seemed to be from Third Old Master. However, no one knows what happened!!¡±


    ¡°Third Uncle?¡± Shi Fengju was surprised and he smiled to Sang Wan, ¡°Third Uncle is an official at Sichuan. It has been two years since hest wrote back; something must have really happened. Let¡¯s hurry there to have a look!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sang Wan nodded and hurriedly had the servants get the cloak, which she took off just a moment ago, to put on again. She couldn¡¯t help but secretly feel worried. Hopefully, it was not anything urgent and that the third family was not like the eldest daughter of the family and her husband...


    When Shi Fengju and Sang Wan arrived, Wang Shi had already let the servants read the letter out to her. She said while passing the letter to Shi Fengju, ¡°Your third uncle and third aunt, together with your two cousins, said that they wanted toe back to celebrate the new year with everyone. They will most likely arrive in a few days. You¡¯ll all have to hurry and clear a few rooms out for them. Also, prepare some clothes, bedding, and daily supplies for them.¡±


    ¡°Why did Third Uncle and Third Aunt suddenly write back, saying that they want to return? Did anything happen?¡± Shi Fengju was shocked, and he hurriedly unfolded the letter to read.

 Chapter 152

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 152</h4>


    Sang Wan secretlyined. She had never been in charge of such a major family matter before. With New Year around the corner, she had to deal with the cleaning and decorations, offerings to be offered to the ancestors, hospitality, annual gifts for friends and rtives, rewards for the servants, as well as food and clothing for the entire family. Even with the help from Nanny Li, Zhide, Liu Ya and the rest, the household department servants would regrly find fault in her management, putting her under immense pressure. Now that the Third Shi family wasing back, wouldn¡¯t she have to make arrangements for them and their servants? It¡¯d be great if the Third Shi family was easy going and understanding, but if they were like Shi Yumei and her husband, then she would have to forget about spending her new year peacefully!


    ¡°They didn¡¯t seem to have included their reason in the letter. We¡¯ll have to wait until they arrive before asking. Really, why didn¡¯t they write back earlier if they were returning? Don¡¯t they know it¡¯s soon to be New Year? Fancy them on the road at such a time!¡± Wang Shi sighed.


    Shi Fengju pointed at the letter andughed, ¡°Mother, you have wronged Third Uncle! This letter was sent two and a half months ago; something must have happened on its way here that dyed the delivery!¡± Shi Fengju raised his brows and said, ¡°Third Uncle might also be dyed on his way here. We should get his house tidied, who knows when he will arrive!¡±


    ¡°Right, right!¡± Wang Shi turned to Sang Wan and said, ¡°Sang Wan, we¡¯ll have to trouble you further. When you go back, instruct the servants to begin the arrangements! Your third uncle and third aunt haven¡¯t returned since seven to eight years ago, so don¡¯t make them feel wronged else it¡¯ll be embarrassing for our family!¡±


    Although Wang Shi bore a grudge against Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Master Shi Guanghui and Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress Zhang Shi, they were still family after all and she would never mistreat them.


    ¡°Yes...Mother!¡± Sang Wan bowed and answered calmly. It was her duty, there was no way for her to escape from it anyway.


    ¡°I remember that Third Uncle and Third Aunt used to live in Qing Hui Garden, but it¡¯s impossible to finish cleaning it in time since that ce has been left empty for so many years. Why don¡¯t we pick another ce for them and tidy it up for them to stay first before deciding again next year?¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile.


    ¡°This,¡± Wang Shi hesitated and said, ¡°This isn¡¯t good. They had always stayed in Qing Hui Garden. Other ces won¡¯t be as grand as Qing Hui Garden, will they be unhappy if we change a ce for them to stay? It¡¯s going to be New Year soon, it won¡¯t be propitious to create unhappiness within the household!¡±


    ¡°Third Uncle and Third Aunt aren¡¯t like that. Mother, you¡¯re thinking too much!¡± Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Qing Hui Garden has three yards and more than ten rooms of different sizes, just cleaning away the dust that¡¯s been collecting might take a few days. The nts in the garden needs pruning, the aged doors and windows require changing, and not to mention the furniture, the list just goes on! They might even arrive before we are done, won¡¯t that be worse then?¡±


    Wang Shi suddenly became anxious. She couldn¡¯t help but regret slightly. If she knew this day would arrive, she wouldn¡¯t have locked up Qing Hui Garden in the first ce and abandoned it rashly then things wouldn¡¯t be this rushed.


    ¡°Alright then!¡± Wang Shi used to take charge of managing the household as well. Given that Qing Hui Garden wasrge and had been abandoned for many years, how could it be easy to give it an overhaul? It would only make things difficult for Sang Wan! As such, Wang Shi nodded and said, ¡°Then, get Ji Cui Tower ready first and let them stay there for now!¡±


    Ji Cui Tower was situated at the southeastern side of the flower garden, with its entrance facing Peony Park. It had servants tidying it regrly, so only simple decoration was needed. There were eight rooms in total, which should be enough to amodate the Third Shi family. Since their journey back was long, the luggage they brought along should not be much. And even if they brought a number of luggage with them, they could all be stored in the storehouse without any trouble. As for the servants, having just a few who were closer to them to stay together in Ji Cui Tower would be enough. The rest of the servants could stay in the servants¡¯ quarters in the household.


    ¡°Mother is right, Ji Cui Tower is quite appropriate. Oh right, my two cousins are no longer considered young anymore. I¡¯m afraid they won¡¯t be staying together with Third Uncle and Third Aunt. We¡¯ll have to prepare another ce for them to stay.¡±


    How troublesome! Wang Shi frowned at the thought, so she waved and said impatiently, ¡°Anyway, just do whatever you think is appropriate!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°Han Shuang Pavilion, which is at the east of Ji Cui Tower, isn¡¯t too small, we¡¯ll settle with that then! I think my two cousins have at most four to five servants so it won¡¯t be crowded.¡±


    Wang Shi nodded and smiled to Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ve heard it all, just make the arrangements ordingly! Hasten the preparations too! At least have the beddings and charcoals ready; this year¡¯s winter is pretty cold! Who knows whether they¡¯ve brought enough clothes with them, just prepare another two sets for each of them!¡±


    Not caring about everything else, Sang Wan could only agree first and ask Nanny Li about the details when she returned back to Ning Garden. As of now, she was really clueless and did not even how Third Shi family looked like.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just know how to say yes, you have to do it well! Your third uncle and third aunt are finally back after so many years, we mustn¡¯t make them unhappy! Sister Sang Wan, you¡¯ll have to be more meticulous!¡± Shi Yumei couldn¡¯t help but cut into their conversation.


    ¡°Your big sister is right, you can leave everything else to the servants to handle first, just put all your focus into this!¡± Wang Shi nodded and said.


    ¡°Yes, Mother. Sang Wan understands!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly answered.


    Shi Yumei red at Shi Fengju and said, ¡°Then you should do it well since you¡¯ve already said so. Fengju rarely has the time to rest at home for a few days, so don¡¯t go pushing everything to him once you go back! He shouldn¡¯t be worrying about all these! Fengju, you are so overly-sensitive, Mother wasn¡¯t asking you just now, so why did you answer instead? I remember that you didn¡¯t use to care about what happened in the household!¡±


    Feeling sorry as well, Wang Shi also stared at Shi Fengju and said, ¡°Don¡¯t interfere in women¡¯s business, go and rest! If Ning Garden is too noisy, juste to your mother, no one will bother you during your rest!¡±


    ¡°Mother, Big Sister, what are you saying!¡± Shi Fengju felt frustrated but found it funny at the same time, ¡°Third uncle and third aunt are also my elders and all I did was give some pointers and suggestions, how would that tire me out! Moreover, Sang Wan has only been in our household for less than a year, so how could she know Third Uncle and Third Aunt¡¯s temperament and what they like? How is she going to start the preparations? Was I not supposed to give her some pointers?¡±


    ¡°Your mother didn¡¯t say you shouldn¡¯t,¡± Wang Shi smiled, ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to tire yourself out!¡± Conveniently, she asked whether he had eaten the ginseng and bird¡¯s nest that she had sent over to him.


    Why would Shi Fengju eat those when he was perfectly fine? He gave a vague ¡°Yes!¡± and changed the topic, saying that it waste while dragging Sang Wan with him as he left.


    ¡°Mother, aren¡¯t you concerned?¡± Shi Yumei said angrily, ¡°Look at Fengju, he always puts his wife first, and doesn¡¯t let others criticize her! Others marry a wife to have someone to serve them, but he married a wife to worship her like a deity!¡±


    ¡°Enough, why are you saying this now!¡± Wang Shi frowned and thought for a while before feeling puzzled, ¡°Why would your third uncle and third aunte back when nothing happened? They didn¡¯t even mention the reason in their letter!¡±


    ¡°...¡± Shi Yumei was speechless for a moment. Her mother wasn¡¯t following her thoughts at all.


    ¡°How would I know!¡± Shi Yumei said disgruntledly, ¡°We will know once they are back!¡±


    Wang Shi snorted softly and her heart suddenly feltplicated. She had always been annoyed by the third family obtaining a position as an official. It was better if they were far away since she could always act like it never happened. But now that they wereing back, she could not ignore it even if she wanted to! If they returned grandly and gloriously, it would bring no benefit to the first family! Who knew how Old Mistress Zhuang would mock at her if she knew! Wang Shi couldn¡¯t stand it as her imagination ran wild.


    ¡°Nanny Jiang,¡± Wang Shi turned back and called, ¡°Prepare two sets of my clothes and jewelry!¡±


    What she meant was to prepare two sets of her best and most formal ones. She couldn¡¯t let others look down on her.


    Nanny Jiang had been working closely for Wang Shi for decades, so of course she understood what she meant. Immediately, Nanny Jiang bowed and went to do as instructed.


    On the way back to Ning Garden, Shi Fengju whispered to Sang Wan, ¡°Don¡¯t take Big Sister¡¯s words too seriously!¡±


    Sang Wan looked at him after hearing him and nodded with a smile, ¡°Her words aren¡¯t all that wrong, she also cares for you after all!¡± At least that was much more gentlepared to what she used to say, especially for Sang Wan who had suffered under her harshness before. More importantly, since her mother-inw was not too bothered, then she wasn¡¯t as well.


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it isn¡¯t easy for Third Uncle and Third Aunt to have a chance toe back, so shouldn¡¯t I be involved as someone who belongs in the younger generation? Let¡¯s handle this together. In any case, all we¡¯re doing is giving the orders, the servants will be the ones executing it anyway.¡±


    Sang Wan smiled thankfully at him and nodded. Seizing the chance, she asked, ¡°Where was Third Uncle posted to? Why have I never heard of anyone mentioning them after being here for more than half a year?¡±


    Even Nanny Li had never mentioned them to her before. Even though she knew about the third family in her previous life and for a fact that they had returned as well, she was already dested by then and never got a chance to meet them. She was still unsure about them even in her second lifetime.


    Shi Fengjuughed helplessly at the thought of no one in the household who dared to mention them. Who¡¯d have the courage to anger his mother and second aunt? His mother and second aunt would disagree with each other on almost every other issue, but not this. They would even prefer for every single trace of the third family to disappearpletely from this household and have no one remember them at all!


    So he said, ¡°Third Uncle is an official in Sichuan. When he first went there, he was a magistrate of Zengkou. Two years ago, he got promoted to senior magistrate of Bazhou. They have been away from home for thest seven to eight years, it¡¯d be a miracle if anyone mentioned them! Hehe, actually both Third Uncle and Third Aunt are nice people; they are very polite, and have two children. Second Sister is sixteen this year, and Fourth Sister should be ten. I¡¯m sure Third Uncle and Third Aunt has taught them to be well-mannered!¡±


    Talking about his two cousins, Shi Fengju almost couldn¡¯t recall his impression of them. After all, it had been so many years. Who knew how their temperaments were now?


    Sang Wan could help but feel troubled and she thought of Shi Yumei subconsciously. If those two cousins regarded themselves as daughters of a dignitary, behaved a notch above others, and were finicky since they had not married yet, then they would be more troublesome than Shi Yumei if they behaved like spoiled brats!


    Sang Wan secretlyined: Why do all this trouble keep falling onto me one after another!

 Chapter 153

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 153</h4>


    Just by seeing brows knitted together, Shi Fengju knew what she was thinking. With aforting smile, he affirmed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll just do whatever we have to. They belong to the third family anyway, so it¡¯ll be up to Third Uncle and Third Aunt to educate them!¡±


    Sang Wan was suddenly enlightened. She agreed with him that although they were one family as a whole, they were not close. If they really were rude and unreasonable, there was no reason for them to be rude to her. And even if they were, all she had to do was avoid them.


    ¡°Fourth Sister is only ten this year? Then wouldn¡¯t she be two when she followed them to Sichuan?¡± Sang Wan asked in surprise. The road to Sichuan had always been long and difficult. For Third Shi family to bring such a young child along with them to a faraway ce, Sang Wan found it unbelievable.


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Not just Fourth Sister, even Second Sister was only seven or eight at that time; she wasn¡¯t even as old as Shi Rui! In the beginning, Third Uncle wanted Third Aunt and the children to remain in the household, but Third Aunt insisted on going and bringing their two children along with them. Third Uncle wasn¡¯t able to dissuade her and could only concede!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded. Third Aunt must be afraid of Third Uncle cheating on her since he would be beyond the reach of her power? She seemed like a strong-minded person!


    ¡°Young Master! Young Mistress!¡± While they were talking, Zhan Huan suddenly ran up to them while panting, ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress, the third family is back!¡±


    ¡°Why are you so rmed?¡± Shi Fengju scolded him unhappily, ¡°We already know. You are dismissed now! Wait, wait around here first, I might have something for you to do, don¡¯t go running away!¡±


    ¡°No, no,¡± Zhan Huan hurriedly said, ¡°What I mean is that the third family is now at the gate and they are walking in right now!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Both Shi Fengju and Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed immediately.


    ¡°They are already here?¡± Sang Wan couldn¡¯t believe what she heard.


    ¡°Yes! Young Mistress!¡± Zhan Huan hurriedly said, ¡°Old Mistress and Eldest Missy are already on their way there. They¡¯ve sent this servant to call Young Master and Young Mistress over!¡±


    Sang Wan nced at Shi Fengju.


    Shi Fengju looked at her and said, ¡°Let¡¯s hurry there too! We will see about what to do after weing them back!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sang Wan nodded. The two of them hurried over.


    By the time they arrived at the second gate, Wang Shi and Shi Yumei had just arrived too. Second Old Master Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi arrived shortly after. Shi Fengju and Second Old Master Shi went out to wee them while Wang Shi and the rest stayed behind the second gate. Arge group of servants stood gossiping with one another as they stretched their necks to the fullest to see how different Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi were after bing an official.


    ¡°Sister Wang, what¡¯s wrong with Third Brother-inw and Third Sister-inw? Why didn¡¯t they inform us earlier? All of a sudden, they appear right at the gate!¡± Second Old Mistress said discontentedly.


    Wang Shi was not in a good mood either. By the time she heard that the third family¡¯s carriage had already stopped in front of the gate, she did not even have time to get changed. She was still wearing a lychee red overdress with grape patterns made from silks produced in Hangzhou and a silvery grey pleated skirt with dark stripes. She only had time to change into a golden hairpin which had a ruby phoenix and a prized fur cloak before rushing to the second gate.


    So she said, ¡°Who knows? We did receive a letter, but we only just got it! Who knew they would arrive right after we finished reading it?¡±


    Second Old Mistress wanted to question why they were not informed after the letter had arrived, but she gave an ¡°Oh¡± after hearing Wang Shi¡¯s words andughed, ¡°Great, our household hasn¡¯t prepared anything yet! Sang Wan, it seems like we¡¯ll have to trouble you!¡±


    Sang Wan gave a glimpse at Wang Shi and smiled, ¡°That is what Sang Wan ought to do!¡±


    But Wang Shi said, ¡°No need to panic, it won¡¯t be your fault if anything goes wrong with this, just give your all and do what you have to.¡±


    Sang Wan was a bit surprised, but she would be a fool if she didn¡¯t agree with her. Hurriedly, she smiled at Wang Shi thankfully and nodded, ¡°I understand.¡±


    As they talked, Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi were walking towards them with thirteen or fourteen others. Wang Shi quickly went forward to wee them.


    It was impossible to avoid the exchange of greetings when they saw each other, and forms of address like ¡°Sister-inw¡±, ¡°Third Brother¡±, ¡°Third Aunt¡± and ¡°Third Uncle¡± flew with a broad smile on their faces.


    Sang Wan observed Third Old Master Shi and his wife discreetly from top to bottom, they were both in their forties or fifties. Third Old Master Shi was average in stature and looked healthier and stronger than Second Old Master Shi. He had a square face shape and a darker skin tone, his eyes were narrow and he had a neat beard. His gestures disyed his dignified manner and he smiled gently when talking to the rest of the family. Third Old Mistress Shi had a lighter skin tone and a well-featured face. Although she was also smiling when giving her greetings, she looked more reserved. Her two daughters held her hands and stood beside her. They both had double-ringed hair buns and had the exact same clothes and essories, except that one was red and the other was yellow.


    Everyone went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce to sit for a chat. Servants were guided by the servants from the household department to rest first while a few who were closer to their masters stayed.


    Third Old Mistress Shi greeted Wang Shi and Second Old Master Shi and his wife again before having her two daughters greet them again as well.


    Shi Yuzhen had some memories of her elders before she left the household and could vaguely match the faces with her memory. She bowed to greet them one after another with a lovely smile on her face. There was a long lost feeling of warmth when she heard her first aunt and second aunt wee her back with a smile, and she finally rxed a little. She evenmented yfully at how beautiful Sang Wan was when she saw her even though she was a stranger to her, and that made everyoneugh.


    As for Shi Yulin, everyone present were all strangers except for her sister, parents, and nanny. She could not help but feel nervous. She stood at the side while holding onto her sister¡¯s hand right after she had finished giving her greeting.


    Once the Third Shi family were done with their greetings, Shi Fengju, Sang Wan and the rest greeted Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi. When the greetings were over, they sat down firmly.


    Nanny Jiang then brought Shi Yuzhen and her sister into another room with their nannies and let the servants prepare tea and snacks for them. Meanwhile, people in the hall began talking.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect you to arrive today! We didn¡¯t have any time to prepare anything!¡± Wang Shi shrugged lightly and sighed.


    Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi thought Wang was only saying this out of politeness, so Third Old Master Shiughed, ¡°We are all one family; there¡¯s no need to be so particr about it. Sister-inw regards us too much as outsiders by saying this!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Third Old Mistress Shiughed as well.


    Wang Shi sighed, ¡°It¡¯s good that you can understand us. I feel more relieved now! Don¡¯t you feel it¡¯s a coincidence? Fengju and I have only just finished reading your letter; we didn¡¯t even have the time to send it over to Second Brother-inw and Second Sister-inw when you arrived all of a sudden. We really haven¡¯t gotten anything prepared! What a coincidence!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi could no longer remain calm. They were so surprised that their eyes were wide open.


    ¡°How can it be!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi lost her cool, ¡°We surely posted the letter more than two months ago!¡±


    ¡°Third Sister-inw!¡± Wang Shi hurriedly made herself clear, ¡°I did not lie to you! It really just came in today! If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Fengju, oh wait, call the carrier here and ask for the person who delivered the letter here!¡±


    ¡°We...¡± Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s face suddenly turned red and was at a loss for words.


    Third Old Master Shiughed, ¡°Listen to what Big Sister-inw said! Why would you lie to us! It¡¯s a long way here, something must¡¯ve happened that caused the dy! Big Sister-inw, please don¡¯t take it to heart!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi was unhappy as she stared at her husband without saying a word. She felt wronged too: All I did was ask a question and now it all became my fault!


    Wang Shi smiled, ¡°I feel more relieved after hearing Third Brother say so!¡± She forced a smile and continued, ¡°We were busy discussing about the preparations for your stay right after we saw the letter, but who knew that before we could do anything, you arrived! Tonight...¡±


    Where would all of you be staying tonight! Wang Shi did not dare to say it upfront.


    Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi looked at each other speechlessly, they didn¡¯t think of it just now!


    Second Old Master Shi coughed and looked at everyone else before saying, ¡°I think Third Brother and Third Sister-inw will have to stay in the guest house for tonight and let Niece-inw quickly get your house ready! Nothing can be done about it, we can only improvise for now!¡±


    It was impossible for Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi not to feel ufortable after hearing that. This was their home after all, yet they would have to stay in the guest house! Furthermore, it had been many years since they were back; it wasn¡¯t easy to make it back home. Afraid that they might be neglected and isted by the family, their hearts could not help but be sensitive. Who knew this would happen the moment they returned!


    ¡°There¡¯s no other choice then, we are all one family, there¡¯s no need to mind that too much! Haha, Niece-inw, we¡¯ll have to trouble you!¡± Although Third Old Master Shi was feeling a little ufortable too, he knew that it was too much of a coincidence and he could not pressure their house to be prepared immediately. Not to mention that they would definitely not be able to make it in time!


    ¡°Third Uncle, you are too polite! I will have the servants ready your house as soon as possible!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly smiled and said.


    Third Old Master Shi nodded and smiled back while Third Old Mistress Shi lowered her head and drank her tea quietly.


    ¡°By the way, Third Brother, why did you decide toe back? Did something happen?¡± Second Old Master Shi suddenly asked.


    Both Wang Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi remained quiet to listen for an answer.


    Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi looked at each other subconsciously. Both of them looked a little uneasy.


    Third Old Master Shi finally gave a cough andughed, ¡°I was seriously illst year and my body was really not feeling well, so I resigned. I will have to stay at home for quite some time.¡±


    ¡°Resigned?¡± Everyone screamed out in surprise at the same time. Wang Shi thought: no wonder it wasn¡¯t mentioned in the letter, they probably felt too ashamed to say it!


    ¡°Why would you resign?!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi asked anxiously, ¡°Third Brother, that position wasn¡¯t easy to get, it¡¯s a big pity to resign! Isn¡¯t it...a waste!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi immediately became unhappy andughed, ¡°Second Sister-inw, you might not know, but resigning doesn¡¯t mean retiring from being an official. It is just temporary; it is still possible to return after one or two years!¡±


    ¡°One or two years? So long?!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi was even more surprised and said, ¡°Third Sister-inw, there¡¯s a saying that the tea goes cold when people leave. By the end of one or two years, would they still ept you after so long?¡±

 Chapter 154

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 154</h4>


    CH 154 The Grievance of Staying in the Guest House


    Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s face darkened immediately as she sighed awkwardly and said, ¡°This is the way the royal court works, how can they deny us? Moreover, my husband¡¯s health is more important. We can¡¯t simply ignore his health condition in order to keep his position! What will we be then!¡±


    Second Old Mistress Shi was feeling upset as well. She thought: hmph, since when do you have a say? Although your husband became an official, he received the position through the Shi family. How could he resign like this without telling us a thing?


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how the royal court works, but I wonder, Third Brother was alright for so many there, so how did he get so seriously illst year?¡±


    ¡°How would I know!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi said coldly, ¡°He always keeps himself healthy, who¡¯d have known he would fall ill? The climate there really isn¡¯t good! Now that my husband has resigned, maybe the court will station him at a better ce next time!¡±


    ¡°Oh! Then we will see how after one or two years then!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi despised the word ¡®maybe¡¯. She thought to herself: what ¡®maybe¡¯? More like ¡®not possible¡¯! Who do you think you¡¯re trying to fool when you¡¯re not even sure yourself!


    Third Old Mistress was immediately triggered by Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s sarcasticment. Just when she raised her brows and was about to refute, Third Old Master Shi raised his voice and interrupted without batting an eyelid, ¡°In any case, I will strive to be stationed at a better ce next time so that I will be able to contribute to our Shi family! I feel ashamed to mention that over all these years that I¡¯ve been far away at Sichuan, I¡¯ve been relying on the allowance from home, but I¡¯ve never done anything for the family! Ai, I¡¯ll give a better exnation to my brother and sister-inws slowly in the future after settling down!¡±


    Since Third Old Master Shi had already said so, everyone else could only smile, ¡°Third Brother, please don¡¯t regard yourself as an outsider, that amount of money is something you ought to have, no need to feel ashamed!¡±


    Seeing that it was almost time, Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Third Uncle and Third Aunt must be tired! How about I lead you to the guest house to rest first? Let¡¯s have dinner together tonight to wee Third Uncle and Third Aunt back.¡±


    Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi were eager to get out of this conversation and have a good rest. After getting up from their seat, they excused themselves after an exchange of pleasantries.


    Third Old Mistress Shi then sent servants to call for her two daughters.


    Wang Shi asked without much thought, ¡°My ce is quite spacious and warm, why not let them sisters stay here for the time being?¡±


    Third Old Master Shi hurriedly smiled and said, ¡°We¡¯ll have to trouble Eldest Sister-inw then!¡±


    However, who knew that Third Old Mistress Shi would say otherwise, ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine! We¡¯ll all stay in the guest house! Those two children are very naughty; it won¡¯t be good if they were to disturb Eldest Sister-inw!¡± She remained persistent in bringing her two daughters along.


    ¡°Alright then, so be it!¡± Since she insisted, Wang Shi said no more.


    However, after they had left, Second Old Mistress Shi dragged Wang Shi aside and whispered to her secretly, ¡°Eldest Sister-inw, look at Third Sister-inw! You were being so kind to let our two nieces stay and take care of them, but they became suspicious of you instead! I¡¯m sure they were afraid that you might secretly ask their daughters about them since they were rushing to bring them away! Your kindness wasn¡¯t rpensed! Even I am feeling indignant for Eldest Sister-inw!¡±


    Wang Shi did not think so at first, but her heart nearly skipped a beat after hearing Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s words. After much thought: wasn¡¯t that the case? That worried expression on Zhang Shi¡¯s face a moment ago!


    ¡°What nonsense are you saying!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s face turned white with anger, but she said, ¡°Which mother does not love her own children? Third Sister-inw isn¡¯t wrong for worrying about her daughters!¡±


    I¡¯ll let you remain stubborn then! Looking at her annoyed face, Second Old Mistress Shi covered her mouth and chuckled lightly, ¡°Eldest Sister-inw is right, it may just be me thinking too much then!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi left unhurriedly after saying so.


    Wang Shi calmed herself with a single breath and called for Sang Wan, ¡°Hurry and do what you have to!¡±


    That was what Sang Wan was waiting to hear. She quickly smiled, ¡°Then your daughter-inw will be taking her leave now. I¡¯lle back and consult Mother if there¡¯s anything that I cannot decide for myself! Also, for the dishes tonight, I will send the menu to Mother to have a look after checking through it once it¡¯s ready! Mother please don¡¯t dislike disfavor your daughter-inw for any shorings.¡±


    Wang Shi was feeling annoyed at that moment, so how would she be willing to bother about what goes with the third family? She waved her hand after hearing Sang Wan and said uninterestedly, ¡°Mother trusts that you can handle it by yourself. There¡¯s no need toe and ask me! Asking me won¡¯t give you any answers! In any case, they¡¯re part of our family, you don¡¯t have to be too nervous when being around them! I don¡¯t feel like checking tonight¡¯s menu as well, so settle it with the kitchen yourself. Do it quickly and don¡¯t get it done toote!¡±


    Sang Wan could only agree and turned to leave.


    While on her way, she ran into Shi Fengju by chance. Shi Fengju was returning from the guest house after leading the third family to the guest house, so the two continued on their way back to Ning Garden together.


    ¡°In the end, it just doesn¡¯t feel right to let Third Uncle and Third Aunt stay in the guest house. Let the servants hurry up and get Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavilion prepared!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    Sang Wan smiled bitterly, ¡°Mother washed her hands clean of it, so you¡¯ll have to help me out!¡± If not, I will be displeased with both of you again! Or so she thought.


    Shi Fengju loved to hear her rely on him andughed immediately, ¡°Don¡¯t you worry, who, other than me, will offer to help you? If anything goes wrong, just me it on me!¡±


    Sang Wan giggled and pretended to be annoyed with him, ¡°As if I¡¯d dare to push all the me onto you. Mother wouldn¡¯t spare me either!¡±


    They could not help butugh and their mood lightened a lot for a moment.


    After returning to Ning Garden, Zhide hurriedly smiled and reported to Sang Wan before she even had the chance to do so, ¡°The kitchen will be sending the menu over soon and will hurry to prepare them once the masters have checked it through. We weren¡¯t sure which house to clean, but Liu Ya has already went to call for servants and look for tools. Nanny Li followed the rest of the nannies who went to see the third family as they returned. We¡¯re not entirely sure whether our arrangements are proper, but they should be back soon. Young Master and Young Mistress, please have a rest first!¡±


    Sang Wan and Shi Fengju looked at each other and smiled, ¡°It must be tough on all of you to make such thorough arrangements. If anyone is here to reportter, you can tell them to inform Liu Ya that Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavilion are to be cleaned. Your young master and I will be going over thereter to see if there¡¯s anything else that needs to be added!¡±


    Zhide hurriedly epted and went to send out the instructions. The two of them sat down and a young servant served them tea.


    ¡°Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavilion are taken care of everyday so it should not be too troublesome to tidy up. Everything else that we need are in the storehouse, so there¡¯s nothing for you to worry about.¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    ¡°Mhm¡±.


    Shortly after, the kitchen delivered the menu over. Many of the dishes were distinguishingly Sichuan local cuisine such as smoked bacon with pine nuts, braised beancurd with crab meat, stir-fried pork with broli, deep fried pork loin etc. Clearly, the kitchen had put in effort toe up with tonight¡¯s menu. They made it specially for the third family to ease their homesickness.


    Sang Wan handed the menu over to Shi Fengju after browsing through it andughed, ¡°I don¡¯t know about Third Uncle and Third Aunt¡¯s liking and since Mother doesn¡¯t want to have a look, you¡¯ll have to make the decision then. If everything¡¯s fine, we should let the kitchen start preparing the dishes as soon as possible!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled as he took the menu from her. Then he nodded after a quick nce at it, ¡°Auntie Han has been in charge of our kitchen for more than twenty years. Since she¡¯s the one who prepared this, then it should be good to go!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly sent a servant to inform the kitchen.


    Right at this moment, Nanny Li returned as well and Sang Wanughed, ¡°Nanny must be tired, have a rest! Lord and I are about to head over to Ji Cui Tower and have a look around!¡±


    Shi Fengju asked, ¡°Are the servants, who came with Third Uncle and Third Aunt, settled down? Did theyin about anything?¡± Among the servants who came, some were old and had followed the Third Shi family when they left the household, as well as those who were brought. After following their master who was an official, it was inevitable for them to regard themselves a notch above others and might be finicky. The servants would bring shame to their masters if they quarrelled among themselves. Moreover, since they had no reputation to keep, why would they care about it? Such servants are harder to deal withpared to their masters.


    ¡°Young Master, not to worry, this old servant had everything settled! Everything is alright now! This old servant really is tired. I will take a short rest first before heading over to Ji Cui Tower to see if there¡¯s anything that I can help with,¡± Nanny Li smiled and said so. There were indeed a few who were hard to deal with, but as Shi Fengju¡¯s nanny, no one would dare to disrespect her. And only because of that, the servants of Third Shi family were settled without much of a problem.


    ¡°Thank you, Nanny! Please take a rest first!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and nodded before he went out with Sang Wan.


    Ji Cui Tower¡¯s floor had already been cleaned and the servants were now wiping the doors, windows, pirs, and every corner. They hurriedly bowed and greeted Shi Fengju and Sang Wan after seeing that they had arrived.


    ¡°No need to be overly courteous, quickly go back to work!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Make it through the next few days and everyone will be rewarded after it¡¯splete!¡±


    Sang Wan had never neglected giving out rewards. All of the servants cheered after hearing her words and they smiled while thanking their young mistress before returning to work energetically.


    ¡°How¡¯s Han Shuang Pavilion doing?¡± Sang Wan asked Liu Ya.


    ¡°Hong Ye is watching over there! Young Mistress, there¡¯s nothing for you to worry!¡± Liu Ya hurriedly smiled and replied, ¡°It¡¯s very messy and dusty here. Young Master and Young Mistress, please go back first. It won¡¯t be toote to check again tomorrow after we are done with the cleaning today!¡±


    Sang Wanughed, ¡°Since we are already here, it won¡¯t hurt to have a look around? Go ahead with your work, no need to worry about us!¡± She walked in with Shi Fengju as she spoke.


    Shi Fengju stopped Liu Ya and had her prepare some writing materials before he smiled at Sang Wan, ¡°There are a lot of things that needs to be added on here. It would be easier if we recorded them down with paper and brush!¡± So the two of them checked every corner, from beds, chairs and cupboards, to curtains and mattresses and carefully discussed about the type of furniture to choose, as well as the material and size; which carpet to match them with; what disy items to put on the curio shelves; where to put the screens; where to hang the curtains etc, they spent nearly four hours in discussion. It was fortunate that Nanny Li arrived shortly after to listen and secretly take quick notes so that she could have the things cleaned early the next morning after picking them out from the storehouse. By afternoon, everything should be ready to be moved.


    Sang Wan suddenly recalled something and eximed, ¡°Oh right, Mother told me before that we don¡¯t know if Third Uncle and Third Aunt had brought back enough clothes with them. Nanny Li, send a servant to inform the tailor toe and measure their clothing sizes tomorrow and quickly get their clothes ready! Also, check if there are new bedding in the storehouse. Take them out andy them under the sun if there are, if not, quickly send a few servants to buy them!¡±


    ¡°Our family has stores that sells silk, ready-made clothes, as well as embroidery. It won¡¯t be difficult to handle!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and told Nanny Li that she just had to send a servant to inform the purchasing department.


    Nanny Li epted the instructions and smiled, ¡°Young Mistress can head down to Han Shuang Pavilion tomorrow and let this old servant know how you¡¯d like to decorate it, just like today. This old servant will have everything else handled at the storehouse. Once everything¡¯s done, Young Master and Young Mistress cane again to check and make any changes if needed. You should quickly go back now and get some rest, wash, and change into a new set of clothes. There¡¯s still tonight¡¯s dinner with Old Mistress!¡±

 Chapter 155

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 155</h4>


    Sang Wan was the wife of the eldest son. Even though Wang Shi wasx with the practices, there were still many things that Sang Wan needed to arrange. When that time came, she would have to get busy. Sang Wan smiled and epted. She called for a chair, for Nanny Li to rest on, and a handwarmer for Nanny Li before giving a few instructions. Once done, she left with Shi Fengju.


    After leaving Ji Cui Tower, Sang Wan felt as if her legs could give in at any moment. Her waist and shoulders were sore and her throat was dry. She could not help but raise her arm to gently rub her shoulder and neck.


    A powerful hand was ced lightly on her shoulder. Its slender fingers helped rub her shoulder with an appropriate strength. Shi Fengju¡¯s gentle voice rang beside her ear, ¡°Tired? You are in too much of a hurry. You could¡¯ve left it to be done tomorrow. Third Uncle and Third Aunt will understand.¡±


    Feeling thefort in her shoulders, Sang Wan rxed her muscles subconsciously and hummed lightly. She tilted her head and smiled, ¡°It would be the same even if it were done tomorrow. The earlier I start, the earlier it finishes.¡±


    Although Third Aunt seemed gentle and restrained, but just by her conversation with Second Aunt, Sang Wan knew that she was not easy to deal with. Sang Wan still wished to live a peaceful life, and thus would rather work harder now. From the moment they arrived, she immediately began the preparations. She had already done her best so even if they were unsatisfied, they would not be able to me her!


    Shi Fengju smiled while shaking his head as he looked at her tenderly.


    He had never seen her work before. She was so conscientious, careful, and devoted. Her distinguished and noble temperament that was shown unintentionally through her behaviour, her words, herughter, her smile, and even her frowns, enthralled him deeply. She was his wife, and the more time he spent with her, the better he thought of her. At the same time, he felt he knew too little about her.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way this would be finished quickly, so why tire yourself out?¡± Shi Fengju smiled. He couldn¡¯t help but move closer to her and said quietly, ¡°Let¡¯s head back quickly, I¡¯ll give you a good massage when we get back.¡±


    Sang Wan blushed and pushed him away subconsciously.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move,¡± Meanwhile, Shi Fengju suddenly grasped her soft and cold hand. His gaze narrowed at her hair and he said, ¡°There¡¯s something on your hair!¡± While he spoke, his other hand brushed a wisp of cobweb off her hair.


    Sang Wan wanted to struggle, but she couldn¡¯t bicker about him holding onto her hand after hearing his words. All she could do was remain still and let him help her remove the dirty thing from her hair. Otherwise, it would be embarrassing if others saw her.


    ¡°Hehe!¡±


    Just when Shi Fengju was about to show her the wisp of cobweb around his finger, they heard the sound ofughtering from two girls.


    That surprised the two of them and they looked towards where theughter wasing from. Sang Wan even took the chance to pull her hand back before taking a step back.


    Shi Fengju felt a little sullen. He smiled at Shi Yuzhen and Shi Yulin and asked, ¡°Second Sister and Fourth Sister, why aren¡¯t you resting in your room? Aren¡¯t you tired after the long travel?¡±


    Shi Yulin was holding onto her sister¡¯s hand and hid behind her. She smiled while looking at them quietly. On the other hand, Shi Yuzhen winked wittily and said, ¡°We aren¡¯t tired. I¡¯m just bringing Fourth Sister to visit Third Sister! Who knew we¡¯d meet Big Brother and Sister-inw by coincidence!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Hurry along then! Third Sister must be feeling listless being in her room everyday. She would definitely be hoping for someone to talk with her!¡±


    Shi Yuzhen smiled, ¡°Then we shall not interrupt Big Brother and Sister-inw!¡± She nodded at Sang Wan and walked away with Shi Yulin. Shortly after, they could hear the girls¡¯ughter ringing again.


    Sang Wan was feeling somewhat embarrassed and she walked with her head held low without speaking a word to Shi Fengju again. Shi Fengju felt a little embarrassed as well. Why was he so unlucky? It wasn¡¯t easy to have a conversation with his wife and those two girls just had toe out of nowhere.


    After they returned to Ning Garden, Zhide and the rest helped change their clothes and wash their faces. After a busy round, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju sat down in a warm room to rest and have tea.


    ¡°By the way, ording to practice, I should prepare a gift for the two sisters when meeting for the first time, shouldn¡¯t I?¡± Sang Wan asked with a smile.


    Shi Fengju nodded and smiled, ¡°Just prepare two jewelry for them. They don¡¯t have to be too expensive. Later, you can bring the gifts along for dinner to give them.¡±


    Sang Wan agreed with a smile and considered giving Shi Yuzhen a gold hairpin and a pair of bracelets to Shi Yulin.


    ¡°Fortunately, you were there with me today. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t have a clue and wouldn¡¯t know where to start!¡± After much consideration, Sang Wan felt that she had better not displease this young master sitting in front of her. If he were to feel unhappy and decide not to help her, who else could she seek help from when her mother-inw wasn¡¯t willing to be bothered?


    Moreover, he deserved her thanks. She had never decorated a house in such a way before. If Shi Fengju did not help her, it would really be a difficult task for her.


    She finally said it! Shi Fengju told himself. He smiled, ¡°So you¡¯re saying that I¡¯ve been a great help to you? Then how are you going to thank me?¡±


    What a cunning profiteer! Sang Wan told herself that she asked for it. This person had be more and more insatiable as ofte. She mustn¡¯t simply promise him anything.


    Shi Fengju was not in a hurry as well. He looked at her with an enigmatic smile then lowered his head to have tea. He was calm andposed as he waited for her response. He felt more and more joy in teasing her and his mood would get better without a reason just by watching her difficult face.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Thank goodness, Zhide came just in time. She smiled and asked if it was convenient for her young mistress to hear about what she had to report.


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t ask for anything better! She quickly nodded and smiled, ¡°Go on? Tell me, there¡¯s no need to be in a hurry!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s words were automatically put off. Shi Fengju could not stop feeling gloomy, but could only genuinely enjoy his tea.


    Zhide looked at Sang Wan strangely. She did not know why her young mistress was feeling so happy. Her mouth had a smile and her eyes were bright. Zhide quickly said ¡°yes¡± respectfully before telling Sang Wan about what the few servants had reported back to her.


    At Peony Park, the news of Third Shi familying back were brought back quickly by Lan Xiang. Gu Fangzi was at the stage of pulling in allies. Even if she wasn¡¯t able to persuade them, she wouldn¡¯t allow Sang Wan to draw them to her side. Gu Fangzi immediately wanted to get changed and meet with them.


    But on second thought, she was still observing mourning. Third Old Master Shi was an official; he would most likely value filial piety more than everything else. If she went the way she was, he might end up feeling disgusted with her. She gave up on her idea to meet with them and wrote a in letter before having Lan Xiang deliver it to them as a form of greeting.


    When Lan Xiang delivered the letter to Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi, she also conveyed Gu Fangzi¡¯s greetings and her apology of not being able to greet them herself. When Third Old Master Shi and his wife heard that Gu Jin had passed away, they sighed at the unexpected and felt that Gu Fangzi was pitiful. And so, they asked Lan Xiang to bring back a few words offort. Third Old Mistress Shi said not to be sorry and observe mourning wholeheartedly, then told Lan Xiang to let Gu Fangzi know that she would be bringing along her two daughters to visit her soon.


    Lan Xiang responded respectfully and left with a smile.


    Gu Fangzi was secretly feeling happy after hearing their response as she knew she had done the right thing. She was able to nail what Third Old Master Shi and his wife liked. She was also surprised after hearing from Lan Xiang that they were staying in the guest house and she asked why.


    Lan Xiang then told her about the coincidence that happened when the letter arrived almost at the same time as when the third family arrived. Gu Fangzi couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud while gloating over it, ¡°Now this is interesting! Third Uncle should be alright with that, but it¡¯d be strange if Third Aunt didn¡¯t think otherwise!¡±


    Lan Xiang smiled, ¡°Surely not, it was a coincidence! The household wasn¡¯t neglecting them on purpose. Surely there was no one for Third Old Mistress to put the me on, right?¡±


    Gu Fangzi sneered, ¡°Knowing that fact is one thing while epting it is another! No matter what, this is Third Uncle and Third Aunt¡¯s home; why would they be staying in the guest house of their own home? Hmph, they may be alright, but it¡¯s hard for the servants not to gossip, especially while not knowing the fact. Who knows what kind of insults they would have? Unless Third Uncle and Third Aunt are going to go around exining to everyone that they¡¯re staying in the guest house because their house couldn¡¯t be readied in time as their letter got held up on the way and arrived at the same time as them?¡±


    Lan Xiangughed and nodded, ¡°Missy, you¡¯re right! This servant was confused at first too, thinking about why Third Old Master and a Third Old Mistress would be staying in the guest house? I only understood after inquiring about it!¡±


    Gu Fangzi gruntedcently and said, ¡°Sang Wan must be the one getting the houses ready. Keep your eyes tight on her and report back to me immediately if anything happens! We can¡¯t stay idle anymore, we have to do something when the time is right! Also, visit their servants more and build good rtionships with them.¡±


    Lan Xiang was motivated and said, ¡°Understood! This servant will go now!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was very satisfied with Lan Xiang¡¯s diligent spirit and she nodded with a smile, ¡°Just keep your eyes on them for these few days. You don¡¯t have to worry about the rest for now and you don¡¯t have to serve me here as well!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡±


    In the guest house, Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi were leaning on the arhat couch for a short break after a simple clean up. There was no warm room, so there was naturally no heatable brick beds to rest on even if they wanted to. Even the arhat couch had to be moved in there. It was going to be afternoon soon, who would be resting on a bed during this time? People wouldugh at them if they knew.


    Even though there was a firece in the room and a thick cashmere nket over them, Third Old Mistress Shi still felt cold. In addition to the frustration inside her, she felt even more ufortable. She nced at her husband and saw that his eyes were closed and his breathing even. His face was in peace andfort. Third Old Mistress Shi grunted loudly and said angrily, ¡°Only you can be falling asleep under this circumstance!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Third Old Master Shi opened his eyes gently andughed, ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired after the long travel? We are finally home now, so have a good rest! Home is always better than the outside, no matter what!¡±


    ¡°Home?!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sneered and said, ¡°Look closely, how is this home! Is this a house we should be staying in?¡±


    ¡°Look at you, why are you mentioning it again!¡± Third Old Master Shi frowned and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t it just a coincidence! Sister-inw cannot predict things, so how can she know that we would be arriving today? You should stop bickering about it!¡±


    ¡°I...¡± Third Old Mistress Shi was suddenly speechless. Sure, she knew that she couldn¡¯t me anyone for it, but she felt aggrieved every time the thought floated in her mind. Coming back home should be a joyous asion, but it turned out to be something so disappointing!


    ¡°This is all your fault, everything was fine, so why did you resign!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi looked outside subconsciously andined, ¡°Why should the subordinates be sacrificed in the fight among the higher authorities? Hmph, it¡¯s alright if they still remember your sacrifice, but if not... or if they pretend not to remember, what can you do? Are you really going to spend the rest of your life at home? Or are you going to learn to do business from Fengju from the start?¡±

 Chapter 156

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 156</h4>


    ¡°What would a woman like you know!¡± Third Old Master Shi¡¯s face turned dark in that instant, and he said, ¡°Stop saying these useless things; I know what I¡¯m doing, stop talking nonsense! They aren¡¯t that sort of people, we just have to wait patiently!¡±


    Seeing that her husband had gotten angry, Third Old Mistress Shi didn¡¯t dare to add on any words. She could only hold herself back even though she still felt indisposed.


    When it was time for dinner, all three of the Shi families gathered at Wang Shi¡¯s ce. Wang Shi beckoned them to have a seat. Although her face still carried a smile, it wasn¡¯t as affectionate as it was at noon and was reced with more politeness.


    This time, Sang Wan had learnt from experience and stood beside Wang Shi tamely to show her obedience to the rules. Seeing that, Wang Shi happily said with a smile, ¡°Your Third Uncle and Third Aunt are not outsiders, having the servants serve is enough. Quickly sit too!¡±


    Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi also smiled and told her not to regard them as outsiders. Sang Wan apologized with a smile before sitting next to Shi Fengju.


    Third Old Mistress Shi looked at Sang Wan before turning to Wang Shi and said, ¡°Sang Wan is so gentle and virtuous. Congrattions to Sister Wang, you¡¯ve found a good daughter-inw! Hehe, Father-inw had shown great discernment!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi spoke without any other intentions. However, Wang Shi had a guilty conscience and was stunned after hearing so. She barely forced a smile, ¡°Exactly! I¡¯m satisfied with Sang Wan. Seeing that they are so devoted to each other, I feel reassured as a mother, and can live in ease andfort!¡±


    Sang Wan blushed after hearing so. She and Shi Fengju looked at each other subconsciously and she saw a subtle glow in Shi Fengju¡¯s dark and serene eyes as if they had ardent feelings burning within them as he looked at her with a smile. Sang Wan was flustered and almost knocked her bowl over!


    ¡°That is Sister Wang¡¯s blessing!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and said again, ¡°It has been more than half a year since Sang Wan entered our Shi family, hasn¡¯t it? Has it ever happened?¡±


    Happened? What happened? Sang Wan looked confused while Shi Fengju seemed slightly awkward.


    Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but look towards Sang Wan¡¯s lower abdomen and thought to herself, oh right, I almost forgot about it. It has been some time since Sang Wan married into our family, and Fengju is also very devoted to her, surely she ought to be pregnant, right?


    However, on second thought, it was Third Old Mistress Shi who mentioned it. Wang Shi could not get over her suspicion of Third Old Mistress Shi taking pleasure in others¡¯ misfortune and immediately became unhappy. She let out a sigh and smiled faintly, ¡°Sang Wan has only been married for half a year, it hasn¡¯t been long, so how could it possibly happen so soon? There are many days toe; there¡¯s no need to be anxious about it!¡±


    Only then did Sang Wan finally realized what Third Old Mistress Shi was referring to. Her heart tightened and she blushed before lowering her head awkwardly.


    Third Old Mistress Shi was startled by Wang Shi¡¯s words and the smile on her face turned somewhat forced, ¡°Sister Wang is right!¡± She couldn¡¯t help but secretly feel irritated. She thought to herself, just what¡¯s with this? I was merely asking about it casually and showing my concern! Did you have to pull a long face at me?


    ¡°Aiya, let¡¯s eat! Don¡¯t just sit and talk, the dishes are getting cold!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi interrupted with a smile.


    Everyone agreed happily and called out to each other to eat before picking up their chopsticks. It had been a while since the entire family had gathered together and the atmosphere soon livened up again.


    All except Second Old Mistress Shi as she watched all of the first and third Shi family members present. In addition to the New Yearing soon, she was the only one all by herself and her son was still wandering outside, nowhere to be found! Not to mention she had no idea how he was doing, whether he was hungry or cold! She couldn¡¯t help but feel weighed down thinking about it.


    After dinner, they sat in the parlour and chatted for a short while before leaving. After all, the third Shi family must be tired after the long travel.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was in a mess from Second Old Mistress¡¯s words. She seemed to feel Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze at her bing more unfathomable, seemingly containing some sort of feeling which she could not describe and was afraid to know. Luckily, he didn¡¯t say anything after they returned to Ning Garden. The two of them had a casual chat like usual before they washed up and went to bed. Sang Wan¡¯s heart only felt relieved the moment she was resting on her bed.


    In Dong He Hall, Second Old Mistress Shi sat on her bed, thinking of the other two families having a lively reunion. The more she thought about it, the more upset she became and she began pouring out her woes about her son to Nanny Lin. The more she spoke, the sadder she became, and her tears fell without .


    ¡°Why is that child so disobedient? It has already been two years since he left home, how can he be so cruel and not think about his mother? What if something happened to him, how will I live?¡± Second Old Mistress Shi wiped her tears and said, ¡°I just want him toe back; all I want is for him to return! I will ede to any of his requests, won¡¯t that be enough? If he wants to marry that woman, then so be it! I¡¯m tired of always living in fear!¡±


    Nanny Linforted her while gently petting her back, ¡°Old Mistress, don¡¯t be sad! Second Young Master has always been smart and capable. What¡¯s more, he left with quite a sum of money so he¡¯s sure to be alright! You are his mother, how can he not miss you? He will definitelye back soon! Don¡¯t worry anymore, Old Mistress!¡±


    Second Old Mistress Shi grunted and said, ¡°It¡¯d be great if he would, I will say yes to every one of his demands! I will even risk my life to go against anyone who dares to disagree! Ah, no matter how good the life outside is, how can it be anythingpared to home? That pitiful son of mine has never suffered any hardships since young, now that it¡¯s freezing cold outside, who knows how he¡¯s doing!¡±


    As she spoke, she anger rose up to her head again, ¡°Fengju always said he would help me bring him back, but who knows whether he really bothered to do so; there hasn¡¯t been any progress for the past two years! Hmph, I¡¯m starting to have my doubts about him!¡±


    ¡°Ow, Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Lin was shocked and she hurriedly coaxed, ¡°Please don¡¯t think that way! There¡¯s no way First Young Master is like that. If First Young Master heard what Old Mistress just said, think about how sad he would be! There are so many people under this boundless sky, won¡¯t hiding be easy? This old servant thinks that Second Young Master must be safe and sound. Our Shi family has shops in many ces, and friends in ces where our reach is limited. If something really happened, Second Young Master can just ask around to deliver a message to us, it¡¯s as simple as that!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi was only feeling indignant when sheined about Shi Fengju, but she felt sorry too afterwards and never mentioned it again. She merely sighed about how bitter her life was and how her heart ached at the thought that her son was suffering outside of home. Nanny Lin could only keepforting her.


    ¡°This is all Jingyi¡¯s fault!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s eyes turned cold; her face turned immediately from sadness to hatred. She mmed the tea table beside her heavily and said spitefully, ¡°That useless woman! She couldn¡¯t even coax her own husband; what kind of a wife is she? If she were a little more useful, would my Fengming have run away from home? It was all due to her uselessness!¡±


    The more Second Old Mistress Shi vented, the angrier she became, ¡°Her husband is away from home, but look at her, instead of staying at home peacefully to pray for her husband and attend to her father and mother-inw, she ran back to her parents¡¯ home to live in ease andfort! You will go to her house tomorrow morning and bring her back!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Lin answered quickly while thinking to herself that Second Young Mistress Shi was indeed in the wrong. How could she stay at her parents¡¯ home for so many months withouting back now that she was someone else¡¯s wife?


    ¡°Go there early in the morning and don¡¯t you forget about it! You have to bring her back to me no matter what! As her mother-inw, I will have to discipline her. Otherwise, Fengming will run away again because of her when hees back! I can¡¯t bear to suffer this again!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi had found an excuse to pour all her rage into and she scolded Second Young Mistress Shi soundly before feeling a lot better. She then talked about almost everything else with Nanny Lin throughout the night.


    Second Young Mistress Shi¡¯s house was at Jinhe Town of Linzhou State. Even though it belonged to a different state than Qingzhou, Jinhe Town was not far from Qingzhou City and was only a three hours ride on a horse carriage.


    Nanny Lin received this difficult mission upon herself. She wrapped herself in thick winter clothes, wore a warm hat, booked a carriage, and headed to Jinhe Town with a few other servants when the sky in the east was just dawning and the morning stars still hanging high up in the sky.


    Soon, Nanny Lin and the rest arrived at the Zhou family¡¯s household. The gatekeeper¡¯s face changed slightly when he heard that the guests were from Qingzhou City¡¯s Shi family. He quickly forced a smile and invited them into the sitting room to warm themselves by the fire and to have tea as he quickly sent servants to inform Old Master Zhou, Old Mistress Zhou, Young Master Zhou, and the rest.


    Even though the Zhou family was not as rich as the Shi family, they were renown in Jinhe Town. Even though the Zhou family¡¯s crond ranged a hundred acres, their mountain field stretched dozens of miles, it would take at least two hours to exit if anyone were to travel through their mountain field on a carriage! Their field was covered mostly with palm trees and tea trees, and the Zhou family was famous for their palm oil and tea tree oil. Not only were they famous in Jinhe Town, but in the whole state of Linzhou and Qingzhou as well.


    As of now, because of the marriage ties with the Shi family, almost all of the Zhou family¡¯s palm oil and tea tree oil were supplied to the Shi family¡¯s firms. They were one of the Shi family¡¯s top suppliers of the two products. Therefore, they possessed the right to be treated equally to the Shi family and did not have to be afraid of the Shi family¡¯s wealth and power at all.


    The gatekeeper hurriedly informed Auntie Yang. When Auntie Yang went to report, the Shi family¡¯s Second Young Mistress Shi, Zhou Jingyi, was just speaking with her mother right after getting up and greeting her. Both the mother and daughter¡¯s expressions changed immediately after hearing about it.


    ¡°How dare they stille over?¡± Old Mistress Zhou loved her daughter dearly and she mmed the table angrily, ¡°Chase them out! Have them return and tell my son-inw¡¯s mother to send her son here after she has educated her son well! My daughter is not for anyone to be insulted!¡±


    Then she asked, ¡°Are Old Master and Young Master informed about this?¡±


    Auntie Yang hurriedly replied, ¡°They won¡¯t be. Old Mistress and Young Mistress are the first ones whom this old servant came to report to right after being informed by the gatekeeper!¡±


    ¡°Hmm,¡± Old Mistress Zhou nodded satisfactorily and waved, ¡°What are you still waiting for? Hurry up! There¡¯s no need to be polite to them. Beat them until they leave if they still don¡¯t want to!¡± She said spitefully, ¡°Did they think that our Zhou family is easy to mess with? How dare theye all the way here to ask for my daughter back? My daughter is not there to be a grass widow! If I had known earlier that their Second Family¡¯s son was such a b*stard, I would never have agreed no matter how rich the Shi family is! Ai, like parent, like son! The Shi family¡¯s eldest son is so outstanding, but why is the second son so unreliable?¡±


    Auntie Yang responded and was about toply with Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s order. But who knew Zhou Jingyi was hesitant and stopped Auntie Yang. She told her mother after much hesitation, ¡°Mother, this can¡¯t be good, right?¡±


    Seeing that her daughter was not of one mind as her, Old Mistress Zhou became so angry that she stared at her and said with a dark face, ¡°What? A married daughter is like water that has been poured out? I am helping to avenge you, but you¡¯re still standing up for them!¡±

 Chapter 157

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 157</h4>


    ¡°Mother!¡± Zhou Jingyi was distressed and said, ¡°But, but there will eventually be a day when I have to return. What you¡¯re doing will only make us feel better for now, but how am I going to live with that in the future!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou snorted, ¡°What¡¯s so difficult? Just divorce if you can¡¯t live with that! As the daughter of our Zhou family, do you think you can¡¯t find a better family to marry into?¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to!¡± Zhou Jingyi¡¯s expression changed slightly and she said firmly, ¡°Mother, I...I will never marry again!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou was very disappointed at her daughter. She poked her daughter¡¯s forehead and said, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that you are still thinking of that heartless man! That b*stard! This daughter of mine, why can¡¯t you wake up! A man like him, who would elope with a woman from the tavern, is not reliable! Even if you aren¡¯t going to remarry, you definitely won¡¯t be able to live with him for the rest of your life! If he can elope with a woman from the tavern, who knows if he would elope with a servant next time? Who knows what else he can do? Are you trying to stop your mother from resting in peace even after death?¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Tears swelled in Zhou Jingyi¡¯s eyes and she started crying, ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t say that! I...I...¡±


    Her mother words did not leave her the slightest amount of face. Although she was scolding Shi Fengming, he was still her husband and it wasn¡¯t any different from scolding her! Zhou Jingyi¡¯s face turned red as she felt ashamed and she couldn¡¯t stop crying. No matter how bad of a man he was, he was still her husband; furthermore, she was really fond of him.


    Old Mistress Zhou sighed and hugged her daughter. She patted her back gently and sobbed, ¡°You disappointing girl, do you mean to sadden your mother?¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Zhou Jingyi suddenly became anxious and she couldn¡¯t help but cry even louder.


    ¡°Stop, stop crying!¡± Old Mistress Zhou loved her daughter the most, so she sighed, ¡°You shall tell me then, what is it you want? Are you going to follow them back now?¡±


    Go back? Her mother-inw was definitely up to no good by sending servants to bring her back, she would definitely have to bear all sorts of torment as well as her mother-inw¡¯s anger; only a fool would go back!


    ¡°I¡¯m not going back!¡± Zhou Jingyi wiped her tears and shook her head, she said with a nasal voice, ¡°I will never go back before my husband returns!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou was slightly mollified by her word. She thought to herself, luckily, this girl is still rational enough not to make me so angry!


    ¡°What if he neveres back? Are you going to live like this forever? Mother isn¡¯t saying that I would not acknowledge you, your brother has always cared for you dearly, and your sister-inw is very virtuous as well; they will never dislike or avoid you even if you stay at home forever. But my dear daughter, it isn¡¯t worth it!¡± Old Mistress Zhou couldn¡¯t help but speak of the worst.


    ¡°No!¡± Zhou Jingyi¡¯s heart seemed to have received a sudden blow, but she shook her head and said, ¡°No, he won¡¯t, he definitely won¡¯t! How can my husband note back? There is still my father-inw and mother-inw; even if he never cares for me, I don¡¯t believe that he will stay outside forever! And Brother-inw Fengju has sent people looking for him for the past two years, we will definitely hear news about him one day!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou sighed with resignation. ¡°What if he had already died outside?¡± Old Mistress Zhou wanted to ask. However, it was too ominous considering that it was going to be the new year. In addition, she couldn¡¯t let herself hurt her daughter¡¯s heart, so she said something else, ¡°I hope that¡¯s the case! And hopefully, that man will be able to correct his own mistakes! Humph! If he ever shows up, I will never let him leave again even if I have to tie him up with a rope!¡±


    Zhou Jingyi almostughed after hearing so, but she quickly asked, ¡°Mother, what about those people from the Shi family¡ª¡ª¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou rolled her eyes at her daughter and said to Auntie Yang, ¡°Go and invite them in!¡±


    Nanny Lin and the rest of the servants had been sitting in the sitting room for quite a while. When they did not receive any follow-up, Nanny Lin got worried and she politely asked the gatekeeper to report their arrival again. Who in the Zhou household did not know about their young missy¡¯s bitter experiences? They inevitably felt sickened at the sight of the Shi family and would not listen to her requests. All they did was put Nanny Li off.


    This was someone else¡¯s territory; Nanny Lin couldn¡¯t say anything else after seeing that all her efforts were in vain and could only wait patiently.


    Finally, when a servant came to inform them that Old Mistress Zhou had invited them over, Nanny Lin quickly stood up and tidied up her clothes. She thanked them with a smile and left with the rest.


    Old Mistress Zhou was waiting at the hall. Behind her stood her daughter-inw, Lu Shi, while Zhou Jingyi had already stepped away.


    ¡°This old servant greets Old Mistress Zhou!¡± Nanny Lin went forward and forced a smile. She then knelt before giving a kowtow.


    Only after she had kowtowed did Old Mistress Zhou smiled unenthusiastically, ¡°There¡¯s no need to be so polite to a rtive, get up! You look familiar, you must be Nanny Lin who serves our inw!¡±


    Nanny Lin was secretly happy as she didn¡¯t expect Old Mistress Zhou to remember her, so she quickly nodded and said, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, you have a good memory! Precisely this old servant!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhouughed, ¡°Right! Our inw has taken such good care of my daughter, of course I would be more aware of her servants! Hehe, have a seat!¡± She ordered for a small bench to be brought in.


    The smile on Nanny Lin¡¯s face stiffened slightly. She was absolutely clear of how her Old Mistress ¡°took care of¡± Second Young Mistress Shi. Presumably, Second Young Mistress Shi must have at least told her mother a thing or two when she got back home. Now that she had met with Old Mistress Zhou who casually mentioned it, she immediately felt insecure as she foresaw that this trip would not be smooth.


    Nanny Lin smiled awkwardly and thanked Old Mistress Zhou before she sat down on the bench, tilting her body slightly.


    ¡°What brings you here?¡± Old Mistress Zhou asked with a smile.


    Nanny Lin hurriedly stood up and replied, ¡°The New Year ising soon. Our Old Mistress has specially prepared some specialities and told this old servant to send them to Old Mistress Zhou!¡± As she spoke, she presented a list of gifts to Old Mistress Zhou with both hands.


    Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s servant stepped forward and took it from Nanny Li before passing it to Old Mistress Zhou.


    Old Mistress Zhou opened the list and barely gave a nce at it before she smiled and left it aside. She said, ¡°Our inw is so polite! How kind of her to still think of us over such a distance! Ah Xian, prepare a generous gift in return as a response, you must not forget!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Lu Shi bowed and replied.


    Nanny Lin quickly forced a smile and said, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, you are too polite! Our Old Mistress said that since we are family by marriage, it is only natural for us to visit each other often to seem closer!¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Old Mistress Zhou smiled and said, ¡°Nanny Lin is so eloquent! Aren¡¯t you tired after travelling such a distance in such a cold winter? Ah Xian, what are you waiting for? Quickly send servants to bring Nanny Lin to have a good rest, let the kitchen prepare some good dishes for them! Hehe, the road that you are going to take to return won¡¯t be easy at night, so I won¡¯t ask you to stay any further! Please leave after dinner! Send my regards to your Old Mistress!¡±


    As Old Mistress Zhou spoke, she stood up while smiling.


    ¡°Old Mistress Zhou!¡± Nanny Lin became anxious. Her main purpose foring had not been discussed yet, so how could she let Old Mistress Zhou leave!


    However, before she could say anything, Old Mistress Zhou smiled, ¡°This old woman really dreads the cold during winter. Just sitting here for a while made my limbs ufortable, so I¡¯ll be going back to my chamber! You can inform my daughter-inw if there¡¯s anything else! Please don¡¯t treat yourself as an outsider!¡±


    How can I let that happen? Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s daughter-inw might not be in a position to make the decision for what is toe! Nanny Lin thought to herself. Not caring about etiquette anymore, she hurriedly said, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, please stay a while! Our Old Mistress has specially sent this old servant to bring our Second Young Mistress Shi back!¡±


    Seeing that Old Mistress Zhou seemed to have shown some interest in her words as her expression seemed to have stiffened, she quickly forced a smile and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t it the New Year soon? Second Young Mistress Shi is our Shi family¡¯s daughter-inw after all, it would be better if she... coulde back to spend the new year. Our Old Mistress also said that Second Young Mistress Shi can return here anytime she wants!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou secretly sneered and thought: Do you think I¡¯m as foolish as a three-year-old child? Humph, go back? Going back is no different from amb returning to a tiger¡¯s den, it¡¯ll be nearly impossible to bring her back here again!


    Old Mistress Zhou acted surprised and looked gleefully at Nanny Li, ¡°Hmm? Is your Second Young Master Shi back? My son-inw really, why didn¡¯t hee here to take my daughter back himself? My daughter is his legally married wife after all!¡±


    Nanny Lin blushed and prevaricated, ¡°Our Second Young Master Shi... isn¡¯t back yet...¡±


    ¡°Not back yet?¡± Old Mistress Zhou raised her brows and sneered before raising her voice, ¡°Then what are you doing here if he is not back yet? You can use this time to search for that Second Young Master of yours! Your Shi family really is interesting! Her son isn¡¯t even home for the new year, yet she wants her daughter-inw back!¡±


    Nanny Lin¡¯s face turned from red to white; she didn¡¯t expect Old Mistress Zhou to be so incisive. Nanny Lin wanted to end this and return empty-handed, but at the thought of Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s anger, she hesitated. If she returned without achieving anything, Second Old Mistress Shi would definitely vent her anger on her!


    ¡°Old Mistress Zhou,¡± Nanny Lin thought before sighing, ¡°Like what you¡¯ve just said, Second Young Mistress Shi is legally married to our Shi family, that means that she belongs to our Shi family now, so how could she spend her new year at her parents¡¯ house? Our Second Young Master will definitely return sooner orter¡ª¡ª¡±


    Thest sentence from Nanny Lin seemed like a threat. It meant that Second Young Master Shi would return sooner orter and if Second Young Mistress Shi does not give her husband¡¯s family any face, then how would she face him in the future? After all, she belonged to the Shi family now!


    Old Mistress Zhou was immediately triggered by Nanny Lin¡¯s words. Her face turned dark and she interrupted her harshly, ¡°Then we will speak again when your Second Young Master is back! What did my daughter do wrong? Are you saying that there¡¯s no fault in him treating my daughter so coldly for the past two years? I¡¯m not afraid to say this, but don¡¯t ever think about taking my daughter away if he doesn¡¯t show his fullest sincerity even when hees by himself!¡±


    Nanny Lin couldn¡¯t help but be angered as well and she said, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, where the needle goes, the thread follows. Since Second Young Mistress Shi is already married to our Shi family, she is part of our Shi family now. Are you going to keep her for the rest of her life?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by ¡®keep her for the rest of her life¡¯?¡± Old Mistress Zhou was extremely angry and she pointed at Nanny Lin as she scolded, ¡°My heart aches for my daughter even if your Shi family doesn¡¯t! She¡¯s doing fine at home! So what if she really stays here forever? Others may fawn over your Shi family, but I never will! Humph, let me tell you, if I had known that your Second Young Master was someone like that, I would rather take care of my daughter forever than marry her to your Shi family to let others make fun of her! How dare a servant like you threaten us! Beat her out!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s eyes turned red as she scolded and she forgot about all the concerns her daughter had discussed with her. All she wanted was to vent her anger out!


    ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, how can you be so unreasonable!¡± Nanny Lin couldn¡¯t help but be annoyed as well.


    ¡°Unreasonable? Is there any need to be for people like you? Bring your Second Young Master to me, I would like to discuss with him who the unreasonable one is! Are you even able to bring him to me?¡± Old Mistress Zhou refused to withdraw and ordered for Nanny Lin to be beaten out again.

 Chapter 158

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 158</h4>


    Lu Shi quickly held Old Mistress Zhou back and painstakingly persuaded her while urging the servants to bring Nanny Lin away to have a rest. Any other matter could be postponed to ater time. Nanny Lin did not dare to remain uncooperative and she left after swallowing down the anger within her. Old Mistress Zhou scolded for a while more before all of her anger had been vented out and she stopped. Holding onto Lu Shi¡¯s hand, Old Mistress Zhou cried, ¡°Ah Xian, you¡¯ve seen it! Your sister¡¯s life has been really bitter! Your Father-inw and I only have her and her brother! It¡¯s so difficult seeing your sister like this! When we, the elders, pass away in the future, you have to take good care of your sister. She mustn¡¯t be bullied by others!¡±


    ¡°Mother! Please don¡¯t say that!¡± As she helped Old Mistress Zhou take a seat, Lu Shi instructed the servants to bring some warm water to wipe her mother-inw¡¯s face. She quickly smiled and said, ¡°You and Father-inw are still healthy, why would you say something so inauspicious? Sister Jingyi is our very own sister; we will take good care of her even without Mother saying! Moreover, Brother-inw is still young. Everyone has their preposterous times; he will naturally return once he has figured things out! He will definitely treat Sister Jingyi well when that timees! Don¡¯t be too worried anymore, Mother!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou sighed and smiled bitterly, ¡°You don¡¯t have to convince me, I¡¯m not holding any expectations for him anymore! I¡¯ve seen lots of ridiculous people, but rarely are they as ridiculous as him! I can only feel sorry for my daughter!¡±


    Lu Shi could empathize as well.


    Once a servant brought the warm water over, Lu Shi rolled up her sleeves before twisting the towel which was soaked in warm water. She presented the warm towel to Old Mistress Zhou before helping to wipe her face. Soon after, a servant brought them a mirror. Old Mistress Zhou took a look into the mirror. She tidied up the hair by her temples before gesturing for the servants to bring it away. Then she sighed again and said, ¡°It was all my fault, why didn¡¯t I investigate him at that time? If only I knew about it earlier¡ª¡ªAi!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Lu Shi let out a long sigh and said, ¡°This daughter-inw has something unpleasant to say. Although Nanny Lin is abhorrent, she is still right that Sister Jingyi belongs to the Shi family now¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°What? Are you going to let them bring your sister back to the Shi family now? No! Absolutely not!¡± Old Mistress Zhou was immediately triggered by Lu Shi¡¯s words and remained resolute.


    ¡°That isn¡¯t what I meant!¡± Knowing that her Mother-inw was an impetus person, Lu Shi quickly added, ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy for Sister Jingyi toe back, of course she can¡¯t just go back there! It would be harder for her toe back again if she went with them! As long as Brother-inw isn¡¯t back, Sister Jingyi can stay with us for now! However, we can¡¯t be too harsh to the Shi family. After all, once Brother-inw returns, Sister Jingyi will have to go back eventually! If we are too harsh with them, the one who suffers in the future will still be Sister Jingyi!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou agreed with her and sighed, ¡°You¡¯re right, but the anger within me was too unbearable just now! Treat Nanny Lin nicelyter. Reward her handsomely too so that she will bite her lips when she goes back!¡±


    Lu Shi quickly epted. She hesitated a little before smiling, ¡°Mother, I think, why don¡¯t we let Nanny Lin meet with Sister Jingyi? Think about it, Mother, Nanny Lin¡¯s task was to bring Sister Jingyi back; who knows what nonsense she will say in front of our inws if she tries to pass the buck? It would be too far for us to reach her by then, so how can we control what she¡¯s going to tell them? We will let her meet with Sister Jingyi and let Sister Jingyi write a letter to our inws. That way, Nanny Lin will be able to report on her task, and our inws won¡¯t have anything to me us for as well. Won¡¯t this satisfy both parties?¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou nodded lightly at first but she quickly shook her head and said, ¡°I still think it¡¯s better not to! What if Nanny Lin insists on taking your sister back when she sees her? If her mother-inw ends up making a fuss about it, how will your sister be able to refuse her?¡±


    ¡°Mother, that¡¯s simple!¡± Lu Shi pursed her lips into a smile and said, ¡°We will make Sister Jingyi pretend she¡¯s sick!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s brilliant!¡± Old Mistress Zhou was pleased and she apuded, ¡°That¡¯s a brilliant idea! We¡¯ll go ahead with it! Let¡¯s get everything prepared right this instant! Bring Nanny Lin to your sister¡¯s roomter!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Lu Shi answered with a smile; the mother-inw and daughter-inw prepared for the n separately.


    Nanny Lin and the rest of the servants who followed her to the Zhou household were resting in the servants¡¯ quarters. Seeing that Nanny Lin did not look too well, the rest of the servants did not dare make a sound. When Nanny Lin asked them for their opinions, they passed the responsibility back to her. That annoyed Nanny Lin and she secretly scolded them for being sly!


    But now that things had reached this point, it seemed like Old Mistress Zhou would definitely not soften her attitude. As such, Nanny Lin could only be mentally prepared to receive a scolding when she went back. However, she could never let both parties vent their anger on her! It was impossible to avoid Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s scolding, but she would definitelyin to Second Old Mistress Shi about the treatment anger she had received here!


    However, she did not expect for Lu Shi to greet and console her in person. With a smile, Lu Shi said, ¡°Nanny, you mustn¡¯t me my Mother-inw; Mother-inw was just feeling sorry for Sister Jingyi. Sister Jingyi fell sick a few days ago and is still taking medication while resting in bed. Your arrival to fetch Sister Jingyi back only added to my mother-inw¡¯s worries, so how could she not be angry? It would be better if Brother-inw were here, but with no news about him, it would be impossible to hold back her anger. However, what my mother-inw said was only out of anger, she didn¡¯t mean anything else! Look here, even my mother-inw thought that she had crossed the line and sent me to apany you!¡±


    Nanny Lin felt honored after hearing so and cooled down a little before forcing a smile to give a few polite words. She went on to apologize for herck of eloquence,that it was her who was not eloquent enough with words which ended up triggering Old Mistress Zhou and that Old Mistress Zhou was not the one at fault.


    However, Nanny Lin became worried again after a second thought. What use was her face now? She would still get a scolding if she couldn¡¯t bring her Second Young Mistress Shi back!


    ¡°Is Second Young Mistress really sick? Is it very serious?¡± Nanny Lin asked hesitantly.


    Lu Shi sighed and said, ¡°It is! Although Sister Jingyi is back, she still doesn¡¯t feel happy! Nanny, who can be happy after suffering through what she had? A few days ago when the servants were not paying attention, she opened her windows and sat in front for an entire night without any reason. On the next day, she was down with a high fever. Her cough has been really bad these few days and she¡¯s still under medication! Sister Jingyi can¡¯t go back with you in such a state. Her body is really weak; now that she has fallen sick and the weather isn¡¯t good, how can she be on the road? My mother-inw will be worried! However, since you have traveled across such a long distance, we can¡¯t let you return like this, otherwise, you won¡¯t be able to answer for your task! Why don¡¯t you have dinner first before I bring you to visit Sister Jingyi? I will have her write a letter for you to bring back with you!¡±


    Nanny Lin was highly pleased and gave her utmost thanks, ¡°That¡¯s fine, that¡¯s fine! Many thanks to Young Mistress Zhou! Then that is settled, you will lead this old servant to visit our Second Young Mistress after dinner!¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Lu Shiughed, ¡°I¡¯ll have the servants serve dinner now. Please eat first! I still have things to do so I¡¯ll be going ahead first!¡±


    Seeing that Nanny Lin was only concerned over her own task and did not show any signs of concern even after hearing that Zhou Jingyi was seriously ill, Lu Shi was secretly disappointed and she let out a sigh for Zhou Jingyi in her heart. How unfortunate! For someone like her who grew up with her family¡¯s affection, nobody would expect her to suffer so much after getting married!


    As her problems were now solved, Nanny Lin¡¯s mood became brighter. The Zhou family prepared a sumptuous meal which satisfied Nanny Lin and the rest of the servants with her.


    After dinner, Lu Shi really did not break her word. She led Nanny Lin to Zhou Jingyi¡¯s room.


    The strong smell of medicine could be smelled the moment they entered the house. Nanny Lin frowned a few times before she barely held her breath as she went into the room.


    There rested Zhou Jingyi on a canopy bed, decorated withndscapes and characters traced in gold, with silvery pink curtains hanging over it. She was wearing a pink gown, her hair was messy, and there was a jade tied around her forehead. Her cheeks were slightly red and her lips were slightly pale. She opened her eyes nkly when the group came in, but could barely focus.


    ¡°Second Young Mistress! Second Young Mistress! This old servant hase to visit you! This old servant is Nanny Lin!¡± Nanny Lin moved closer to the bed. She forced a smile and greeted Second Young Mistress Shi.


    ¡°Nanny... Lin?¡± Zhou Jingyi stared nkly at her and forced a smile, ¡°So it¡¯s you! Why have youe?¡± As she spoke, she struggled to sit up.


    Lu Shi worriedly stepped forward to help her before saying gently, ¡°My dear sister, you are still sick, rest well and don¡¯t move about!¡±


    ¡°Right, Second Young Mistress! Rest well! Your health is more important!¡± Nanny Lin quickly smiled as well before adding, ¡°Second Old Mistress said that it¡¯s going to be the new year soon so she sent this old servant to fetch you back for the new year! Who knew you¡¯d be sick! Ai!¡±


    ¡°Mother-inw sent you to fetch me?¡± Zhou Jingyi suddenly shook and she couldn¡¯t help but cover her mouth as she started coughing hard while struggling to sit up.


    At this moment, Lu Shi, Su Qing, Su Bi, and everyone else became worried. Even Nanny Lin felt bad seeing how even sitting up required so much effort, so she quickly urged, ¡°Second Young Mistress, please don¡¯t worry and lie down quickly! Of course you¡¯ll have to stay and rest now that you¡¯re this ill. We can talk about your return to the Shi household at ater date! Only that, I¡¯d like to trouble Second Young Mistress to write a letter for this old servant to bring back to answer to Second Old Mistress.¡±


    Lu Shi, Su Qing, and the rest did not seem happy. Although they knew that Zhou Jingyi was pretending to be sick, how could Nanny Lin still request for a letter to be written by someone who was so seriously ¡®ill¡¯?. It was clear how inferior Zhou Jingyi¡¯s position was in front of her mother-inw.


    Zhou Jingyi did not seem to think anything was wrong. Her mother-inw and her servants had always been that way. If her mother-inw could be half as nice as Aunt Wang, would there be any need for her to n a return to her parents¡¯ house?


    ¡°I, I...Sister-inw...¡± Zhou Jingyi said a few ¡°I¡±, seemingly asking Lu Shi for help.


    Nanny Lin could not help but be distressed as her heart tightened: Second Young Mistress, you¡¯ve got to hold on. If I can¡¯t bring anything back to answer to Second Old Mistress, she¡¯ll definitely punish me!


    ¡°Sister Jingyi, please don¡¯t push yourself. How about this? Why don¡¯t you tell me what you want to write and I will write it out for you? After I¡¯m done, I will read it out to you to see if anything needs amendment,¡± Lu Shi patted Zhou Jingyi¡¯s hand gently and said.


    Before she could respond, Nanny Lin was already smiling as she spoke, ¡°Right, right, right! That¡¯s a good idea! Young Mistress Zhou is indeed clever! That way, Second Young Mistress won¡¯t have to push herself anymore!¡±

 Chapter 159

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 159</h4>


    Lu Shi gave a small smile and said, ¡°Since that¡¯s settled, then I¡¯d like Nanny Lin to leave first and wait a while. I¡¯ll pass it to you once the letter is finished!¡±


    Nanny Lin also did not want to stay in Zhou Jingyi¡¯s room for too long as she was afraid of the illness being passed on to her. Now that the task assigned to her was done, she could finally answer to her master. She nodded without hesitation and followed the lead of a maidservant who was bringing her out.


    ¡°This Shi family really doesn¡¯t have any good people!¡± Lu Shi hissed between her teeth.


    Zhou Jingyiughed softly at thement but said indifferently, ¡°Sister, there¡¯s no need for you to get offended because of some servants! Which servant serves without being selective? It¡¯s my fault that my husband is wandering out there and my mother-inw takes all of her anger out on me. The servants only serve those in favor, so why would they treat me respectfully!¡±


    Lu Shi¡¯s heart ached and she sighed softly, ¡°You¡¯re right, our husband is everything to us women!¡±


    If Sang Wan were present, she could not have agreed more with them. The two lives she had lived were living proof of this philosophy. Her own personal experience was sufficient without drawing anyparisons with others.


    As these words seemed to rub salt in the wound, Lu Shi realized that her words were somewhat inappropriate so she smiled and said, ¡°My good sister, hurry up and write this letter. It is only right to send that Nanny away from here!¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Zhou Jingyi smiled and got up, but she sighed again all of a sudden before saying in a soft voice, ¡°I can fool them this time around, but what about next year, if theye again¡ª¡ª¡±


    Lu Shi paused and pondered before smiling, ¡°What is so difficult about that? Anyway, isn¡¯t our grandmother celebrating her birthday in May? When the weather turns warm after the new year, why don¡¯t you stay for awhile at Grandmother¡¯s ce. It¡¯s not as if they could keep going there to find you? Two of our cousins are still single and staying under the same roof, you won¡¯t be bored there!¡±


    Zhou Jingyi pped her hands in tion, ¡°Sister, you are so smart! I will go after the new year!¡± The two nced at each other and gave a knowing smile.


    Nanny Lin kept Zhou Jingyi¡¯s letter carefully and epted the return gift from the Zhou family before hurrying back.


    It was no surprise that Second Old Mistress Shi was enraged when Zhou Jingyi was not brought back and she gave a severe scolding.


    Nanny Lin did not dare fan her fury further and kept quiet. Once Second Old Mistress Shi was done venting her anger, Nanny Lin quickly gave her the letter during a small window of opportunity and rambled on about whatever she saw in the Zhou household. Of course, she skipped the strong words by Old Mistress Zhou ¡ª¡ª She knew that would be the same as adding fuel to the fire if she spoke about it and she would only be finding another scolding for herself. Thus, she did the opposite and spoke well about the Zhou family as well as their weing attitude. She even went on to exaggerate Zhou Jingyi¡¯s illness and how she could not get off her bed.


    Shi Second Old Mistress was a little suspicious at first, but after hearing Nanny Lin make an oath and seeing the return letter, she finally it go. However, sheughed coldly and said, ¡°Remember this for me! After the new year, you will go again, and you will bring her back! She can¡¯t possibly be sick every single time, right?¡±


    Nanny Lin quickly epted with a smile but in her heart, sheined bitterly to herself and decided that she would never be the first to mention it if Second Old Mistress Shi did not bring it up. With the temper that Second Old Mistress Shi had, Nanny Lin was sure she¡¯d lose her dignity; she definitely did not want to make another trip there!


    While there was thismotion in the second family, the members of the first family did not have it easy too.


    Early in the morning, when Third Old Mistress Shi got up and was about to head to Wang Shi¡¯s ce for a chat, who¡¯d have known that the ground at the front door would be slippery, especially when the carpet was notid? Third Old Mistress Shi slipped and fell, shrieking as she fell down the steps. Unknowingly, the servant, Ying Fang, who was holding onto her, fell as well. In the end, both the mistress and servant fell together.


    Luckily, Third Old Mistress Shi only had a small abrasion on her wrist. However, Ying Fang was not so lucky. Her left thigh bone was fractured and there was arge bruise on her right arm.


    Nanny Gui and the rest hurried forward and helped Third Old Mistress Shi up before Nanny Gui reprimanded loudly, ¡°What were all of you servants doing! You knew that the weather is cold and the ground would be slippery, so why wasn¡¯t a carpetid on the floor? Will you be able to bear the responsibility if Third Mistress were seriously injured!¡±


    At the side, three servants who were sweeping the ground looked at one another fearfully and kept very silent.


    Nanny Gui was Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s closest servant. She had a prideful personality and a habit of bossing others around. Seeing how those servants remained stunned on the spot and were not begging for forgiveness, infuriated her. She pointed at them angrily, ¡°What are all three of you still standing there for? Hurry and kneel to seek forgiveness!¡±


    Why would the servants obey a nanny who appeared out of nowhere only to start ordering them around? The three servants looked at one another, but they remained stationary. After a brief moment, one of them was kind enough to reply, ¡°Nanny, you¡¯re mistaken. That isn¡¯t part of our duty and we don¡¯t know about it!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know!¡± Nanny Gui saw that they still had the guts to talk back and anger swelled within her. She snapped angrily, ¡°Then what are all of you still doing, standing there at a side when you see a master fall down? You don¡¯t know how to step forward to help her up? Where is your decency! Has it been eaten by dogs?¡±


    The three servants were beginning to feel a little vexed too and one of them said, ¡°Us servants are tasked to sweep the floor; we can¡¯t just leave! In any case, isn¡¯t Nanny right beside?¡±


    ¡°Precisely, and we have dirt on us, how can we go up to hold onto a master!¡±


    Nanny Gui was so furious and she pointed at Ying Fang, ¡°Then how about her! Can¡¯t you help her up?¡±


    ¡°Enough, I don¡¯t want to hear this anymore!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi stopped Nanny Gui with a dark face. She was furious as well. How dare these servants who sweep the floor talk back to her own servants right in front of her! Isn¡¯t this the same as pping her face?


    So what if they did? There was nothing she could do to retaliate! Being in an awkward position where she was neither a master nor a guest in the household, she could not disy her might as a master, else she would seem petty!


    In the end, it was Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s two servants helped Ying Fang back into the house. Third Old Mistress Shi also went back in and gave up on going out. She ordered Nanny Gui to retrieve ointment from Wang Shi and help to hire a doctor for Ying Fang.


    Nanny Gui was eagerly waiting for that set of instructions. She hurriedly went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce and exaggerated the story.


    Wang Shi received a shock upon listening, and ordered Nanny Jiang to invite a doctor immediately before personally going to Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s ce. Especially since the incident happened right after the third family returned, it was only right that Wang Shi gave Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi a proper answer as the household was under the management of the first family.


    Third Old Mistress Shi did not think that Wang Shi woulde personally and felt somewhat ufortable. She went out to wee her and repeatedly uttered words like, ¡°It was nothing¡± and ¡°It¡¯s fine¡±. But when Wang Shi saw the abrasion on Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s wrist and Ying Fang¡¯s wretched state, she immediately became embarrassed. She stayed until the doctor had left after both Ying Fang and Third Old Mistress were properly diagnosed and given medication.


    The first thing she spoke after leaving the guest house was, ¡°Bring Sang Wan over to me now!¡±


    The young maidservant who went to Ning Garden to deliver the message told Sang Wan a little about what happened. Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed immediately and she ordered Nanny Li to visit Third Old Mistress Shi personally. She also ordered Zhide to find out exactly what happened.


    Shi Fengju had wanted to apany Sang Wan, but Sang Wan would never dare to let that happen. Her mother-inw was only going to be angrier if she saw him, so she remained insistent on not letting him follow.


    Seeing how she remained firm, Shi Fengju conceded. He smiled and consoled her, ¡°This is just an ident, Mother won¡¯t me you for it, so don¡¯t worry!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope that¡¯s the case.¡± Sang Wan gave a weak smile but secretly did not agree at all.


    Indeed, she was not wrong. Wang Shi¡¯s expression was as dark as ink when she arrived. ¡°Sang Wan! I¡¯ve always observed that you are a careful and meticulous person, so I becamex and left the household for you to manage. It isn¡¯t as if this is your first day taking charge of the household, so how could something like this happen? Did you know that there¡¯s a scrape on your third aunt¡¯s wrist, and the servant by her side fractured her thigh bone. The doctor even said that she would need half a month of rest! Sang Wan, if it was your third aunt who was seriously injured, where do you want me to hide my old face! This morning, Nanny Gui almost asked me up in my face; do you know how ashamed I was!¡±


    ¡°I was careless. Mother, please punish me!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly knelt down and lowered her head quietly.


    What exnation can she offer? Can she push the responsibility to the servants? If the servants were wrong, then she should be med even more. No matter what, she would have to receive a round of scolding and punishment!


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi said, ¡°What¡¯s the point of punishing you? I just don¡¯t understand, how could something like this happen at this time? Was it because you were too nice and the servants start to be more unruly, or were your instructions to them not clear?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart shivered and did not dare to speak further.


    Not giving clear instructions was obviously her fault. The servants bing unruly would only be because she was not strict with them. No matter what, all fingers were pointed at her, and fundamentally had no difference at all.


    ¡°Yes, your daughter-inw was careless! Mother, your daughter-inw deeply apologizes to you! When I return, I will give Third Aunt an apology and a proper exnation,¡± Sang Wan said with her head still lowered.


    Wang Shi remained quiet, but her expression changed quite a few times. Nobody knew what she was thinking. Nanny Jiang, Xiu Chun, Xiu Li, and everyone else had their hands at their sides as they stood still, not daring to make a sound.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Right at this moment, Shi Fengju walked in calmly from outside. Sang Wan¡¯s tension disappeared as soon as the corners of her eyes caught sight of him.


    ¡°Why are you here too!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s face became a lot less tense when she saw her son and let him sit down.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to visit Mother,¡± Shi Fengju sat down and smiled, ¡°Luckily, Third Aunt is fine. Mother, you should stop being angry!¡±


    Wang Shi sighed and said, ¡°This isn¡¯t about me getting angry. Your third uncle and third aunt did not return for so many years and this happened immediately after they came back. Others might think that, as the eldest sister-inw who manages the household, I am purposely mistreating them! Even if they don¡¯t think that way, they will surely say that I¡¯ve not managed this household well. Does that sound pleasant to you!¡±


    ¡°There were too many things to handle yesterday; Sang Wan could not have ensured that everything was well taken care of, so Mother shouldn¡¯t be ming her! Luckily, Third Aunt is fine, so it isn¡¯t much of a problem. Next time, let¡¯s be careful and make sure this doesn¡¯t repeat itself! Mother, you should hurry and let Sang Wan visit Third Aunt, I believe that Third Aunt is not an unreasonable person!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and coaxed his mother.


    Wang Shi red at him for half a second and let out a snort, ¡°Your big sister said that you always side with your wife, I see that it¡¯s true!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re at it again!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Is there any use to scold Sang Wan now? What¡¯s more, Sang Wan is my wife, what¡¯s wrong with me siding with her and helping to say a few words? Does Mother wish to see us not get along instead?¡±

 Chapter 160

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 160</h4>


    ¡°Just listen to that!¡± Wang Shi smiled at what he said before saying to Sang Wan, ¡°Alright, alright, you may leave now! Go and give a sincere apology to your third aunt and let her know of the punishment you¡¯ve set for the three servants. Make sure you punish them properly because servants who do not respect their master should not be forgiven!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan replied at once. She let out a sigh of relief and left promptly.


    Not long after leaving Wang Shi¡¯s ce, she saw Nanny Li with two servants waiting under the shelter of the corridor. When they saw Sang Wan, they hurried over to her. The two servants each carried a gift box in their hand.


    Upon asking, Sang Wan understood that Shi Fengju had ordered them to wait for her and then apany her to Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress. Sang Wan felt touched, with all sorts of feelings welling up in her heart.


    ¡°Young Mistress, let¡¯s go over there now!¡± Nanny Li said as she nced at Sang Wan. Seeing that Sang Wan¡¯s expression remained calm, Nanny Li was secretly relieved. It was only natural for a mother-inw to scold her daughter-inw when they make a mistake; Nanny Li did not feel that Sang Wan did not deserve the scolding. If Sang Wan felt aggrieved, then she had looked too highly upon her.


    ¡°Eh,¡± Sang Wan nodded her head and asked as they walked, ¡°What gifts are we bringing with us?¡±


    Nanny Li followed closely and answered with a smile, ¡°Inside one of the boxes is two cans of premium tea leaves. The other box has twenty exquisite pouches decorated with gold and silver for Third Old Mistress to reward others!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded in silence as she sighed softly in her heart. The servants were practical without a doubt; if Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress had rewarded her servants, those servants would not have stood at the side and watched! However, Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress must have forgotten that none of the maidservants liked to stir trouble for themselves...


    When Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress saw Sang Wan, she smiled and nodded her head, ¡°Ah, Sang Wan, you¡¯vee. Have a seat! Nanny Gui, serve the tea!¡±


    Her tone was dull and she sat without moving; it was obvious that she was still feeling angry.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to visit Third Aunt!¡± Sang Wan came forward and bowed. Signaling to Nanny Li and the two other servants to pay their respect and then put down the gifts, Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°It was because of my carelessness that Third Aunt had suffered! In light of my naivety, please forgive me this once!¡±


    At this moment, Nanny Gui served the tea and could not help but say, ¡°It¡¯s fortunate that our old mistress didn¡¯t suffer any major injury. If this were to happen again, it¡¯d be hard to say for certain!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly replied, ¡°This will not happen again! Third Aunt and Nanny Gui, please do not worry! In spite of myck of experience, I will not dare to repeat the same mistake after this lesson!¡±


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress quickly stopped Nanny Gui before smiling at Sang Wan, ¡°I will let it pass this once; I¡¯m not that petty to continue harping on this incident! Speaking of which, you don¡¯t have it easy too. We returned so abruptly yesterday; there¡¯ll surely be lots you¡¯d have to settle in the household, a few mistakes are unavoidable. Also, the servants stepping over their master¡¯s head cannot be entirely med on you! Enough,e and have a sit!¡±


    Since Sang Wan did not try to push the responsibility away by saying things like ¡°My servants are unsensible and do not know the rules¡±, Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress was not as angry as before. Instead, she empathized with her! However, if Sang Wan had pushed the responsibility away, it would have angered Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress.


    As the wife of an official, she couldn¡¯t be more familiar with all sorts of excuses and those disgusted her the most. Should Sang Wan have used such an excuse, it would not work on her!


    Despite having forgiven Sang Wan, it did not mean that the incident could be swept under the rug. If that were the case, how would her servants respect her as their master? Not just her, even her family and the servants they brought over would be despised! Even more so when they had to return after her husband resigned from being an official. Regardless of the reason for his resignation, a resignation was no different from a dismissal in the eyes of others; a lost in authority. Even if she had a good temper, how would she get by in the years toe?


    Sang Wan understood the meaning behind her words and couldn¡¯t help but shudder in her heart;paring the old mistresses in the Shi household, none could bepared to Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress. Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress¡¯ words were like sharp spears hidden in the dark.


    Sang Wan replied, ¡°Third Aunt, please do not worry. Sang Wan will give Third Aunt an exnation for this! By right, the servants in this household needed some discipline, however, Mother finally had some peace and Sang Wan couldn¡¯t bear to bother her with these small matters! Sang Wan is young and has not been in the household for long, there are some matters that aren¡¯t appropriate for Sang Wan to take charge of so Sang Wan could only turn a blind eye to them! But who knew that this would turn them arrogant and leave them with no respect for their master! Just now, Mother had asked me about this and said that I was foolish for turning a blind eye, else such an incident would not have urred! This time, the rules will be strictly enforced and those who break it would be ruthlessly punished! This will be my answer to Third Aunt and will also cleanse the household of any spitefulness.¡±


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress smiled after hearing those words and she praised, ¡°No wonder your mother-inw and Fengju dote on you. You are really good with your words! Have a seat, there¡¯s no need to be so courteous here!¡±


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress and Nanny Gui felt relieved at the thought that the few servants were not intentionally against them, but rather, due to thex of rules in the household. At least, she no longer had to be angry due to the humiliation she suffered.


    Sang Wan answered with a smile before taking a seat and receiving the tea offered by Nanny Gui.


    Sang Wan took a quick nce around and said, ¡°It is really is inconvenient for Third Aunt, Third Uncle, and my two sisters to stay here. The house has been swept and cleaned yesterday. Today, the curtains will be put up and the papers on the doors will be reced. The furniture can be moved in tomorrow and the day after. I¡¯ll have to ask for Third Aunt and Third Uncle to bear with it for a few more days; the house will be ready for you to move into soon!¡±


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress was most concerned about it and after hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words, she felt relieved, ¡°That¡¯s great! We¡¯ve really troubled you! We aren¡¯t very particr, so if there are any small things we need for the house, we¡¯ll let you know. For now, we just want to move in; it is fine as long as it¡¯s almost ready!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Nanny Gui eagerly said, ¡°Not to hide from Young Mistress but staying here is a little inconvenient; having our own ce to call home is the best. It¡¯s enough to have the beds and nkets ready, everything else can be added slowly in the future!¡±


    Sang Wan did not expect them to be in such a hurry and could only agree with a smile. At that thought, it was inevitable for everyone to work harder as getting the house ready was of utmost importance!


    Nanny Gui was not satisfied with Sang Wan¡¯s answer and smiled, ¡°Young Mistress, please see if this is possible, but about changing the curtains and papers today and move the furniture in tomorrow, tomorrow is a good day, how about we move in tomorrow night?¡±


    Why the hurry? Sang Wan was stumped. She gave a quick nce at Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress. Seeing that she was drinking the tea in silence, Sang Wan understood that this was also her desire. It seemed the incident today had made her displeased and she was doing this to warn Sang Wan that she was no pushover.


    Sang Wan sighed at her misfortune. She would have to increase the manpower, make use of the afternoon period to shift the bigger furniture in, and work overnight to change the curtains and papers. Hopefully, she would be able to make it in time before tomorrow night, but there were just so many rooms! Also, it wasn¡¯t just Ji Cui Tower but also Han Shuang Pavillion! Even though Third Aunt and Nanny Gui mentioned ¡°Nearly there would be fine as long as the beds and nkets are ready,¡± she would be a fool if she took those words for real!


    Not only must the furniture be moved, the big and small decorations must also not be overlooked.


    ¡°Understood...¡± Sang Wan showed a troubled face and she pondered deeply. After a brief moment, she forced a smile and nodded, ¡°I will do my best. However, by any chance if I fail and am not able toplete it, I hope Third Aunt will be able to understand!¡±


    There was no way she could give a quick response. Otherwise, it would only add trouble for her in the future if they ever me her for not being able toplete such an easy task without any mistakes!


    ¡°I¡¯m relieved after hearing your words!¡± Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress was smart too. Even though Sang Wan gave herself an alternative course of action by not giving a definite answer, it still meant eptance to their request in any case.


    ¡°Third Aunt knows that you will do your best, so would I me you?¡± Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistressughed, and eximed, ¡°It isn¡¯t that Third Aunt wants to make things difficult for you, but it really is inconvenient to stay here! It¡¯s okay to just clean up the house, there really isn¡¯t a need for anything else!¡±


    Sang Wan agreed with a smile and asked her third aunt if she had any other requests she would like to make. Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress naturally said no, and afterwards, saw her off.


    ¡°What a character that young mistress has! Really hard toe by!¡± Nanny Gui said as she saw Sang Wan leave.


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress let out a deep sigh and spoke with a hint of jealousy, ¡°Big Sister-inw is such a fortunate person!¡±


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress did not believe in fate, but there were times when she just had to! For instance, Wang Shi did not recognize words, wasn¡¯t scheming, not very intelligent, and did not think before she spoke. However, she was said to bring luck to her husband. After she married into the Shi Family, their business indeed flourished, and her inws and husband were fond of her.


    With her inws and husband treating her well, a capable and filial son, and now a great daughter-inw, the only thing she had to do in her entire life was to enjoy.


    That was very much unlike her. Even during her prime as the wife of an official, there were various social events which required much of her efforts and she was always on her toes.


    Back in Ning Garden, Sang Wan ordered Nanny Li and Zhide, each taking charge of Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavillion. They had to increase the manpower and finish tidying promptly. She also ordered Liu Ya to take the storeroom key and bring some men to shift the big furniture out to air them before moving them into the house in the afternoon.


    Sang Wan clenched her teeth and said to all those who were involved: After these two days of hard work, everyone will be greatly rewarded! Any idlers will be punished severely!


    Nanny Li, Zhide, and everyone else went to work. For a short while, there were a few servants who brought tabs to exchange for items and some matters which required a follow up. Sang Wan settled them all before calling for Hong Ye to ask whether the incident in front of the guest house was thoroughly investigated and what happened there.

 Chapter 161

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 161</h4>


    Hong Ye quickly reported, ¡°Nanny Zhang, who is in charge of cing the carpet, has been summoned and is waiting for Young Mistress¡¯s questioning! Also, the three servants, who were sweeping at that time and offended Third Old Mistress, are here as well! Would Young Mistress want to question them now?¡±


    Sang Wan thought for a while and replied, ¡°Bring Nanny Zhang in, I will question her personally. I can¡¯t be bothered to meet with the three servants! Go out and tell the one in charge of them from the household department that these three servants disrespected their master; punish them with thirty flogging and cut their pay for three months. Cast them out at once and let the Tian Family who grow flowers use them. Remember to warn them that if they do not want to be sold, they¡¯d better shut their mouths and not spread any false rumors.¡±


    Third Old Mistress¡¯s intention was clear; Sang Wan definitely had to punish those three servants severely. If not, how would her anger subside? She was hurt, her servant was heavily wounded, but those three servants just stood by the side and even talked back to Nanny Gui. Those three servants deserved it.


    This was the most severe punishment Sang Wan had given ever since she took on the responsibility of managing the household. Hong Ye couldn¡¯t help but shudder. She quickly agreed and went to pass on her words. She warned the three servants and ordered two other servants to escort them out.


    The three servants did not expect that just by standing at the side and not offering their help, it would get them into such a huge trouble. Their faces turned pale and they kneeled down together, pulling on Hong Ye¡¯s skirt and begging her for mercy while swearing to the sky and ground, ¡°We dare not again!¡±


    Hong Ye coldly replied, ¡°You all should know very well! Youughed at a master¡¯s misery and talked back to her aide; not selling all of you is already considered merciful! Young Mistress has been busy for the past few days. Despite that, all of you went and caused her trouble; you dug your own graves!¡±


    One of them shift her knees forward and hugged Hong Ye¡¯s legs as she pleaded, ¡°Sister, please let us see Young Mistress! Young Mistress has always been merciful so she will definitely forgive us! We know our mistakes. Sister, please, please give us another chance!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress would never do something so merciless. Sister, I beg of you!¡±


    ¡°Even if we have to leave, we should still kowtow to Young Mistress! Please fulfil our wish, Sister!¡±


    The three servants pleaded pitifully as they pulled on Hong Ye, their faces full of tears. It was a heart-rending sight!


    Hong Ye had never been in such a situation before. Even though their status were notparable to hers, but fundamentally, they were all servants. She could not help but sympathize with them. The three servants saw that gleam of hope, and they begged more painstakingly, as though it was theirst chance.


    Hong Ye could not hold herself back any longer and sighed, ¡°Alright, alright. Follow me in to give Young Mistress a kowtow! Remember, do not speak irresponsibly!¡±


    The three servants¡¯ faces brightened up and they frantically kowtowed to Hong Ye to give their thanks before getting up from the floor.


    Hong Ye nced at them and frowned slightly, ¡°Tidy up your clothes and clean up your face! How can you go in to see Young Mistress in this state?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sister!¡±, ¡°Thank you for your advice, Sister!¡± The three tidied themselves before looking at Hong Ye anxiously and timidly. Knowing this was their only chance, the three of them were very nervous.


    ¡°Follow me then!¡± Hong Ye said as she led them inside.


    Inside the house, before Hong Ye could even speak, the three servants plunged to the floor and kowtowed for mercy. One after another, they begged, ¡°Young Mistress, please forgive us¡±, ¡°Young Mistress, please spare our lives¡±. That gave Sang Wan a shock.


    ¡°Silence!¡± Sang Wan was shocked and shouted. She red coldly at Hong Ye and asked, ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Hong Ye hurriedly moved forward and exined the situation briefly.


    ¡°Young Mistress, please spare us. We will not dare to do it again! We will go and apologize to Third Old Mistress at once!¡± The three servants pleaded as they cried.


    Sang Wan was already feeling vexed so how could she still take this nonsense? Her face turned dark and she red at Hong Ye as she bellowed furiously, ¡°What did I instruct you to do? Did you not hear me clearly?¡±


    As a matter of fact, Hong Ye dared to act on her own ord to bring them in partly because she sympathized with those servants, but not forgetting that it was also because she knew Sang Wan had a good temper. However, she did not expect this would enrage her.


    Hong Ye¡¯s face reddened from embarrassment. Her lips moved but she did not dare to speak.


    ¡°Someone!¡± Sang Wan shouted, ¡°Bring them out!¡±


    The three servants were only tasked to sweep the ground; they had never served closely beside a master and thus were not familiar with the set of rules, only knowing that this was their final chance and that their destiny was within their young mistress¡¯ palm. In the heat of the moment, they rushed towards Sang Wan while on their knees, hugging her legs and pulling on her skirt as they begged pitifully, just like how they pleaded to Hong Ye previously.


    ¡°How dare you! Let go of me!¡± Sang Wan was feeling both embarrassed and angry, but it was not a good idea to shake herself from them; if by any chance her clothes got torn in the midst, it would be even more embarrassing!


    ¡°Brazen!¡± Hong Ye and the rest of the servants, who answered to Sang Wan¡¯s call, were shocked at the sight and they shouted while trying to pull the three servants away.


    Would the three servants let go of their grip on Sang Wan¡¯s clothes so easily? Seeing that Sang Wan did not push them away, they were unsure whether it was because Sang Wan did not want to lower her status to argue with them, but decided to believe it was because she had softened her stance. As such, they were unwilling to let go and they clutched her skirt tightly as they cried out for mercy! This caused the servants around them to be anxious and hateful towards them. It also frustrated Hong Ye greatly!


    ¡°What is happening here!¡± Shi Fengju witnessed this ridiculous scene the moment he stepped into the house. Seeing that a bunch of servants were pulling on Sang Wan¡¯s clothes with no regard to the rules, he could not help but feel angry.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s words shocked everyone, but making use of the moment, one of the three servants was finally pulled away. Returning to their senses, the other two servants continued to grab onto Sang Wan¡¯s clothes tightly and pleaded, ¡°Young Mistress, please have mercy on us! We beg of you!¡±


    ¡°Impudent!¡± Shi Fengju came forward and kicked one of the servants as he said coldly, ¡°Are you still not letting go? What is your statuspared to your young mistress. How dare you be disrespectful towards her! If you are not letting go this instance, I¡¯ll have all of you dragged out and beaten to death!¡±


    The face of the two servants turned pale and they loosened their grip unknowingly. Soon after, they were pulled away and escorted out to be dealt withter.


    Silence was left inside the house, no one dared to make a sound.


    Sang Wan was beyond furious as she red at Hong Ye and questioned. ¡± Why are you still here? Are you not going to convey my orders, or do you need me to do it personally?¡± Among the servants, Hong Ye was the down-to-earth. Often, Sang Wan felt that honest people had their own merits; at least they would not ck off and thus, she had never reprimanded Hong Ye much. However, such a person was too naive! It was alright for Hong Ye toplete simple tasks, however, that was not the case if it involved others. It was no wonder that Nanny Li seldom had herplete such tasks by herself.


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Hong Ye¡¯s face turned pale and she left hurriedly.


    ¡°How are you feeling? Are you alright?¡± Shi Fengju asked in concern as he waved his hand to order the rest of the servants to leave before moving closer to hold Sang Wan¡¯s hand.


    His change in attitude was too quick and caused Sang Wan to be dazed for a moment. She smiled and answered, ¡°I¡¯m fine, why are you back?¡±


    ¡°Well, so long as you¡¯re fine!¡± Shi Fengju prompted her to sit before replying, ¡°I was at Second Uncle¡¯s ce having a chat with him and Third Uncle. But I was afraid that you might encounter trouble which was why I came back. Those three must be the three from this morning¡¯s incident, right? You too, why would you meet with them? It would have concluded if you just passed your orders down to them through a servant!¡±


    Sang Wan gently withdrew her hand andughed without a change in expression, ¡°Why would I meet with them? This was all because of Hong Ye¡¯s muddling!¡±


    Shi Fengju nked out for a moment before smiling, ¡°No wonder you were so fierce to her just now! Hong Ye is too down-to-earth, it¡¯s no wonder that she couldn¡¯t ignore their pleas.¡±


    Sang Wan red at him, ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯m the one that¡¯s heartless; no matter how they begged me, it didn¡¯t work for them!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°What are you saying! That isn¡¯t what I meant! You are fine this way. In my opinion, you¡¯re still not heartless enough. If not, Hong Ye would not have misbehaved!¡±


    Sang Wan shrugged and said, ¡°What can I do? Third Aunt is eager to move in. Nanny Li and Zhide are busy handling it. If they didn¡¯t, my heart will feel uneasy!¡± She let out a soft sigh.


    Shi Fengju anxiously asked how the conversation with Third Aunt went, so Sang Wan told him about what had happened there when she met with Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress.


    ¡°It must¡¯ve been tough on you!¡± Shi Fengju closed in on her and spoke gently, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t take what Mother and Third Aunt said to heart, just endure these few days! I know that this incident was not your fault. If you are unhappy,¡± he said with a smile, ¡°You cane at me!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face flushed. She hurriedly avoided his gaze and said with a slight smile on her face, ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t me Mother and Third Aunt. This incident wasrgely due to my negligence. I am the one who gave the orders and not getting things done is naturally my responsibility. Mother did not wrong me!¡±


    Originally, Shi Fengju was worried that she would feel wronged, but after listening to her words, he was relieved and said with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s great that you think this way! But then again, there were so many things to take care of in the past few days, there¡¯s no way for you to handle everything perfectly all by yourself. Mother and Third Aunt should be more understanding! How about we go to my country house and enjoy two days all to ourselves after things quiet down?¡±


    Sang Wan was shocked and quickly replied with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s almost New Year, there¡¯s no time for leisure! We have to prepare and send out New Year¡¯s gifts in these few days, receive our rtives and friends, and prepare the incense, candle, joss paper and more for our ancestors!¡±


    ¡°You are right, after the New Year then! Our family has a country house where the plum blossom flowers bloom the best. When that timees, I¡¯ll take you for flower viewing!¡± Shi Fengju smiled.


    Even though they were not gazing at each other, Sang Wan could feel his fiery gaze and was pressured to her limit. Her heart was frantic and if she were to reject him, who knew what he would say next. So she nodded her head and agreed with a smile. Seeing that he had more to say, Sang Wan quickly added, ¡°That Nanny Zhang is still waiting to be questioned, I have to hurry and give Third Aunt an answer!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head and said, ¡°You¡¯re right, then let¡¯s call her in!¡±


    That Nanny Zhang was not evasive. She answered what she was asked and kowtowed for forgiveness. ¡°It¡¯s all because of my forgetfulness. Yesterday, this old servant had alreadyid out the carpet, but it got dirty and Third Old Mistress¡¯s servant asked me it to change to a new one. At that time, it was getting dark and this old servant took the dirty carpet but forgot to rece it with a new one. Who would have thought that this would happen the next morning! I deserve death! I deserve death!¡±

 Chapter 162

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 162</h4>


    After hearing what Nanny Zhang said, Sang Wan did not know what more to add and therefore reprimanded, ¡°This is your responsibility, so how could you so easily forget about it? If your memory is not up to the task, then you should quit your job! Also, this was clearly your fault so how could you me it on Third Old Mistress¡¯s servants? If the carpet is dirty, you should¡¯ve taken the initiative to change it. They were kind enough to remind you, yet you rather use them for this!¡±


    ¡°This servant has misspoken, this servant has misspoken!¡± Nanny Zhang pped her mouth lightly and pleaded, ¡°It is this old servant who has spoken wrongly. Young Mistress is right to reprimand me! From today onwards, this servant willplete all tasks earnestly, please forgive this servant this once!¡±


    On ount of her old age and that the incident was unintentional, Sang Wan intended to give her a warning and cut at most two months of her pay. However, Shi Fengju simply spoke, ¡°A fault is a fault, if everyone just apologized after a mistake, what¡¯s the point of having rules?¡± After he finished, he called in Hong Ye to ask what the punishment for the three servants were and Hong Ye answered him respectfully.


    Shi Fengju then said, ¡°On ount of her old age, ten floggings will be enough. As for the rest of the punishment, it will be the same as the other three. Bring her out!¡±


    ¡°Young Master, this old servant¡ª¡ª¡± Nanny Zhang was shocked.


    ¡°What? Do you have anymore to say?¡± Shi Fengju stared at her coldly.


    Nanny Zhang¡¯s lips twitched and she dared not speak under the cold stare of Shi Fengju. If Sang Wan were alone, she would have dared to make a scene, but Shi Fengju was present. Even though the young master would usually not interfere with matters within the household, no one had no fear of him. Nanny Zhang¡¯s face was pale; she gave a kowtow and followed the servant out.


    Did she have something to say? Of course she did! Nanny Zhang felt wronged, but she dared not say it and could only keep it in her heart.


    At almost dinnertime yesterday, Lan Xiang went over to the guest house to worm her way into getting closer with Third Old Mistress¡¯s servants. While walking over the carpet, one of them was not careful and stumbled, dropping the hand warmer which dirtied arge spot on the carpet and even burned a small part of it. Lan Xiang kindly informed them, ¡°How can Third Old Mistress walk on something this dirty!¡±


    The servants were worried. They smiled and came to ask for a change. Seeing that it was almost dinnertime, Nanny Zhang did not want to help and wanted toe up with a reason in order to change it the next day. However, who would have thought that Lan Xiang would help them. Nanny Zhang¡¯s roundabout reason of refusal could work on the newly arrived servants, but it definitely would not work on Lan Xiang. She had no choice but to agree!


    Who knew that after she had rolled the carpet and walked not a distance away, Lan Xiang caught up from behind and said that she was heading to the storeroom. She added that she could help her exchange the dirtied carpet on the way, sparing the trouble of dying Nanny Zhang¡¯s dinner. Nanny Zhang was delighted and agreed. However, after the incident in the morning, that brat hurried over and apologized that she was busy the previous night and forgot about it! Nanny Zhang stamped her feet and eximed, ¡°Why did things have to be so coincidental!¡±


    Nanny Zhang was unable to speak of her sufferings. Lan Xiang¡¯s intentions were good so it didn¡¯t seem right to sell her out. Furthermore, Miss Gu was known to side with her people despite faults, especially when Lan Xiang was her confidant. Nanny Zhang did not dare to invoke Miss Gu¡¯s wrath and could only me it on her own bad luck. Who asked her to bezy?


    Once Nanny Zhang had left, Shi Fengju smiled at Sang Wan and said, ¡°Now, do you think I¡¯m heartless?¡±


    Even though Sang Wan did slightly feel that way, how could she say it in his face? She shook her head and said, ¡°You helped me to deal with them, I can¡¯t even thank you enough!


    Shi Fengju sighed softly and said, ¡°You are too soft-hearted. I know you took into ount her age and how she admitted to her mistakes and thus didn¡¯t have the heart to punish her severely. But think about it, she is the main offender in this incident, and yet you are letting her go despite punishing the other three harshly? What would others think? If the three servants knew about it, they would feel aggrieved and harbor a grudge towards you in their heart. Although you may have let the Tian family use them to do odd jobs, they would still be in the household. So how will you stop their mouths from bbering? Might as well punish them all equally so that they have nothing to say!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned pale and she broke out in cold sweat after hearing him.


    Shi Fengju was right. She had almost made a mistake due to her soft-heartedness! If she were to let Nanny Zhang go, it would be unimaginable what the servants in the household would say!


    Sang Wan lifted her head and stared nkly at Shi Fengju, she was speechless.


    Seeing that she was dumbfounded, he couldn¡¯t resistughing and said, ¡°This can¡¯t be med on you, it¡¯s a good thing to be kind! Alright, let¡¯s have lunch first. It¡¯s not toote to give an answer to Third Aunt in the afternoon!¡± He called Hong Ye in to instruct the servants to send their food.


    Hong Ye timidly nced at Sang Wan before rying the instructions down to the servants. She also ordered a servant to draw some water for the two to wash their hands.


    Sang Wan sighed secretly to herself. He had helped her too much these past few days; her reputation was improving daily and the servants were more respectful so there weren¡¯t any who were rude to her. Everything was going well, thus, she had be less vignt and meticulous than before. It seemed that words had to be thought through numerous times before speaking.


    If Shi Fengju did not enlighten her today, she would not have noticed the changes in herself!


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Sang Wan did not know what to say as she quietly wiped her sweat.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s abstruse eyes gazed deeply into at hers and he said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for words like ¡®thank you¡± between us. You are my wife.¡±


    Sang Wan lowered her gaze and did not speak anymore. Recently, their conversation had been ending in such a way where she would be cornered by him after a few sentences. She did not know what he was nning in his mind!


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was once again in disorder. She was distracted while having her meal, whereas Shi Fengju remained unaffected. He was himself and was also calm.


    After their lunch, they went to a room, which was partitioned out, to have tea to help with their digestion, and a chat at the same time.


    ¡°It will be difficult for Hong Ye to manage everything alone. Zhide and Liu Ya will have to get married in the next few years; we should pick two or three clever servants next year and let Nanny Li and Zhide show them the ropes. They¡¯ll be of help to you in the future!¡± Speaking of what had happened today, Shi Fengju smiled and added.


    Sang Wan became slightly fidgety after hearing him and she said softly, ¡°Lord should discuss it with Nanny Li instead. It¡¯s none of my business!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Shi Fengju felt that that came out of nowhere and was startled.


    Sang Wan suddenly felt distressed. She did not feel this way when dealing with Wang Shi and Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress. But at this moment, her nose was stinging, her mouth had a taste of astringent, and her heart felt heavy and unbearable.


    Why did he have to treat her so well? Just what was he nning!


    ¡°Did Lord really forget?¡± Sang Wan raised her head and nced at him as she said softly, ¡°After the new year, I should be leaving soon. Whatever arrangements Lord has, there isn¡¯t any need to tell me.¡±


    Shi Fengju entire body shook and his smile stiffened.


    ¡°No!¡± Shi Fengju eximed without even processing his thoughts, ¡°I will not let you go!¡±


    Sang Wan did not make a sound. She remained calm as she looked at him quietly, her eyes moist and clear with gentleness.


    ¡°I am for real!¡± Shi Fengju abruptly opened up his arms and hugged her tightly, he rested his face on her neck and said softly, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t leave me! Please stay!¡±


    Sang Wan felt a sudden pain in her heart, but she did not push him away this time. Instead, she gave a bitter smile, ¡°If you want me to stay, how do you n to settle me down?¡±


    Hearing that there was still a chance, Shi Fengju felt happy. He raised his head and looked at her in the eye, ¡°You will definitely be my first wife! And it will never change!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sang Wan said dully, ¡°Then what about your cousin? What will she be?¡±


    Upon hearing Gu Fangzi¡¯s name being mentioned, his heart sank. After a brief silence, he replied, ¡°She will not rise above you. So rest your heart!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not assured.¡± Sang Wan looked straight at Shi Fengju as she said every word calmly, ¡°Lord, I am not assured enough.¡±


    ¡°Do you not believe that I will treat you well?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Sang Wan shook her head before saying softly, ¡°She is your childhood sweetheart. Because of her, you grew up with a prejudice against me and wished that I would get out of your life! And now, after just half a year, you want me to stay, promising that you will treat me well and nobody will rise above me, including her! Lord, if you were me, would you believe yourself? If someone were to appear again in the future, how would you continue to treat me?¡±


    ¡°It isn¡¯t the same!¡± Shi Fengju retorted. He looked into Sang Wan¡¯s gaze but found himself unable to refute.


    She was right. If their roles were to change, he would not believe himself either. But he was still a man; getting deceived by a woman for so many years was not something that he could tell her. He couldn¡¯t simply tell a woman that he had loved the wrong person.


    ¡°It just isn¡¯t the same!¡± Shi Fengju thought about it for a moment and felt that he should just say it and be embarrassed this once, ¡°You are different from her. Sang Wan, I know what I¡¯m doing and I¡¯ve never been any clearer. I like you. Sang Wan, I really like you! Gu Fangzi was perhaps because we grew up together. Before you showed up in my life, I did not differentiate what feelings I had for her! But now, I am clear of my feelings for you. Sang Wan, you are the one I want to be with for the rest of my life. Please don¡¯t leave me, I will treat you well! Are you telling me that all this while, you did not feel my sincerity?¡±


    ¡°But, Gu Fangzi entered the family in the end!¡± Sang Wan gave a bitter smile.


    Shi Fengju was full of regret. If only Gu Jin did not pass away so suddenly, Gu Fangzi would not have married into the family and things would not be soplicated now. Not even speaking about Sang Wan, he did not know how he should treat Gu Fangzi!


    Some people just couldn¡¯t be faced! Even meeting her would make him feel ufortable. But as of now, she was his concubine.


    ¡°I did not expect things to turn out the way they are now!¡± Shi Fengju said with a headache, ¡°Sang Wan, I will not let her bully you! In this household, you are the mistress!¡±


    Sang Wan sighed in her heart and remained quiet.


    Not hearing a response from her after a long while, Shi Fengju could not help but try to sound her out. Seeing the calm and undisturbed look on her face, he did not know if she was satisfied. He embraced her arms tightly and said in a gentle voice, ¡°Sang Wan, I will take it that you agreed not to leave me!¡±


    Sang Wan nced at him and said, ¡°Do I have the power to refuse you? If you insist, I¡¯ll have no choice but to stay and be your wife in name, fulfil my wifely duties, serve you and Mother, and take care of this household for you!¡±

 Chapter 163

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 163</h4>


    Shi Fengju¡¯s face turned turned expressionless as he said in a low voice, ¡°Husband and wife in name? Just like before?¡±


    ¡°Do you not like that?¡± Sang Wan raised a brow slightly in amazement, ¡°You don¡¯t seem against it! I don¡¯t like to scheme against others, and neither do I have any tricks up my sleeves nor the heart to devise one. Even if you gave me your word, saying that you love me, but what about Gu Fangzi? Tell me, who doesn¡¯t know how much she loves you? I¡¯m also sure you are well familiar with her characterpared to mine? Surely, you wouldn¡¯t wish for this household to be in a turmoil!¡±


    Shi Fengju understood her meaning and said inly, ¡°Then what do you want to be done?¡±


    ¡°Make her leave the Shi household!¡± Sang Wan said without any hesitation, ¡°So long as she¡¯s here, she will just be like a thorn in my heart, making me uneasy. I can¡¯t stop you from having concubines, but she¡¯s different; she¡¯s the only one I cannot ept! If you were in my shoes, I¡¯m sure that you would not be able to ept her. If she is no longer important to you, then make her leave! If you want her, I will grant your wish! But if you want both of us to stay, you¡¯ll have to forgive me because I won¡¯t be able to do that. I will return the authority of this household to her and request Mother to let me move to the country house to stay a while.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll never allow it!¡± Upon hearing that she was intending to leave, Shi Fengju felt frustrated. He clenched his teeth and said, ¡°I will never allow you to leave, and you will never be able to leave me!¡±


    Sang Wan said inly, ¡°Mother actually dotes on me and she is very easy to speak to. As for Gu Fangzi, she probably can¡¯t wait for me to leave. I just need to mention it and I¡¯m sure she will prepare a carriage for me immediately. As for you, you can¡¯t always be at home right? When you are far away from home, would you be able to stop me?¡±


    Shi Fengju was speechless.


    He had always been clever and he understood things without having to be told twice. If he did not allow her to leave, she naturally could not leave. However, her treatment towards him could not be controlled by him! Now that her footing in the household had strengthened and her second brother was the top escorted examinee, even if he did not make it through the next examination this time, who knew if he would seed on his next try? Even if he decided to stop taking the examinations, he could settle to be a magistrate. Just by that alone, the Shi family could not do anything to her! Besides, he could not harden his heart to do anything that would harm Sang Wan!


    If he were to force her to stay, what would remain would be her body. Even if she remained gentle or virtuous, it would all be on the surface only. However, he loved her so much that he did not want just her body. He loved to see her gentle smile; he loved to have small talks with her as he listened to her soft and gentle voice; he loved her contented smile which would warm his heart. All of which could be gotten only with her by his side.


    Shi Fengju finally gave in and sighed, ¡°If she had not entered the household, everything would¡¯ve been easy to handle. But now that she had entered, asking her to leave,¡± Shi Fengju shook his head, ¡°Mother will never allow it!¡± And the person herself would definitely refuse!


    Sang Wan said, ¡°Her marriage with you was not made public, and only a handful of others know of it. With the Shi family¡¯s financial power, arranging another marriage for her would not be a trouble! Mother has always doted you and felt that letting her be a concubine was not fair for her. Only you can handle this properly, and I¡¯m sure Mother won¡¯t say otherwise!¡±


    Shi Fengju went silent. He agreed with what Sang Wan said, but she had missed the key person and that was Gu Fangzi herself! If Gu Fangzi did not want to leave, he could not force her to. If she were to make a scene, Mother would definitely feel guilty to her and would be more likely to let her stay. It wasn¡¯t that he wanted her to stay, he just wasn¡¯t all too confident about it.


    Sang Wan felt disappointed, but she had already expected him not to give an immediate reply too. Otherwise, she would feel uneasy as well!


    She gently pried his hands away and said with a forced smile, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now, I have to go to Third Aunt¡¯s ce and then check on both Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavilion afterwards!¡± She turned and left. Shi Fengju heard her instruct Hong Ye, ¡°Watch over the house properly and take care of your young master. Remember to direct any messengers to Ji Cui Tower!¡±


    From the gentle sound of footsteps, she had left with a servant.


    Hong Ye gently slid open the door and entered to serve her young master, but he waved his hands to signal her out, which she promptly did so.


    Even though the house was silent, Shi Fengju¡¯s mind was a mess. He understood Sang Wan¡¯s concerns. Her soft outer appearance and strong stubbornness made him love her even more, but he was at a loss of what to do. However, he was sure of one thing. If it¡¯s about letting her go, he would never agree to that!


    He had already done something that made him regret, and that was allowing his cousin to stay. Now, he could not afford to make another mistake that would cause him to regret ¡ª¡ª letting her leave!


    Shi Fengju did note up with a n after much thought. He suddenly felt that the house was stuffy and unbearable, which made him annoyed and irritated. He got up and left without saying a word.


    Sang Wan reached Wang Shi¡¯s ce calmly and reported to her about the conclusion, which Wang Shi nodded in agreement. Sang Wan then went to Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress¡¯s ce and apologized to her again before letting her know about the punishments given to the servants. Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress was never a kind-hearted person when it came to dealing with servants and felt that Sang Wan was not being harsh enough. In her eyes, a servant without respect for their master was the most detestable and should be beaten to death!


    On a second thought, it might be because New Year was approaching and it was inappropriate to give harsh punishment that would end up cutting their blessings. Her face did not show any displeasure as she smiled at Sang Wan while saying courteous words like ¡°You have worked hard¡±.


    Sang Wan felt relieved seeing that this incident was somewhat resolved and she hurriedly smiled, ¡°Third Aunt, please do not worry. In the future, I will properly manage every aspect of this household and not let a simr incident happen again! Oh right, thetest Third Aunt and Third Uncle can move in is tomorrow evening. When that timees, I will order a few servants to guide you there! The time given was short, so if there¡¯s anything stillcking, please let me know in the future!¡±


    Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress was ted. She smiled and said, ¡°Sang Wan is no doubt capable! It¡¯s already fine that we can move in tomorrow, we aren¡¯t too particr!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled. Afterwards, she said her goodbyes as she left for Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavilion to check on their progress.


    At Peony Park, Lan Xiang brought back the news of Sang Wan being scolded by Wang Shi early in the morning which delighted Gu Fangzi. She said with a sneer, ¡°No matter who, it must feel unpleasant to receive a show of authority after returning to the household after so many years? Besides, Third Aunt was never easy to deal with, I can¡¯t wait to see how Sang Wan will handle this!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, with so many enemies in the household, her life from now won¡¯t be easy!¡± Lan Xiang agreed happily. After receiving Gu Fangzi¡¯s orders, she left to carefully inquire about any movements.


    Unexpectedly, the incident was resolved with only harsh punishments for the three servants and the nanny. Third Shi Family¡¯s Old Mistress did not pursue the incident any further and even Wang Shi did not punish Sang Wan harshly.


    ¡°When did Aunt be so magnanimous? Her reputation has always been important to her, so how was this incident resolved so simply?¡± Gu Fangzi could not believe what she heard and stared at Lan Xiang before asking, ¡°Is what you heard urate?¡±


    Lan Xiang did not dare to answer. But after a brief moment, she toughened herself up and replied, ¡°The young master... he somehow helped to put some nice words for Young Mistress in front of Old Mistress. That¡¯s why¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Just who does that b*tch think she is! That damned vixen!¡± Gu Fangzi spat harshly as her expression quickly turned furious, ¡°I thought so. With Aunt Wang¡¯s temper, she wouldn¡¯t have let this matter rest so easily! Big Cousin, Big Cousin, once again he protected her!¡±


    The one he should be protecting was her, Gu Fangzi! Since when did he throw her aside and not show any concern for her!


    Gu Fangzi thought to herself with jealousy and hatred: Sang Wan, don¡¯t be so pleased with yourself. Men fall in love with every other woman they see. He may be protecting you now, but there wille a day when you will be in the same situation as me... abandoned like a pair of old shoes!


    ¡°Missy, do you think... that Nanny Zhang will tell on me...¡± Lan Xiang asked timidly. The reactions from the three servants were unexpected, but Lan Xiang was clearly involved in the incident with the carpet. If that nanny were to even mention a single word about her, Sang Wan would definitely be suspicious of her.


    Seeing her make use of the opportunity to think about herself, Gu Fangzi couldn¡¯t help but loathe as she red at Lan Xiang while saying unhappily, ¡°You just rest your worrying heart! In this household, there aren¡¯t a lot of stupid servants like those three. Nanny Zhang definitely knew the more she spoke, the more fault she would be in! Hmph, if she did mention you, do you think that you will still be standing here now? You would have already been dragged to Ning Garden for interrogation!¡±


    With such a great opportunity to bring her under control, why would the people from Ning Garden let it slide?


    ¡°Next time, be a little more clever when handling your tasks!¡± Gu Fangzi instructed.


    ¡°Yes missy!¡± Lan Xiang finally rested her heart.


    Having spoken the words in her mind before leaving Ning Garden, Sang Wan became nervous and did not know how she should face Shi Fengju. Luckily, she made use of the excuse of being the overseer and refused to leave Ji Cui Tower. Nanny Li was concerned for her; many a times she had asked her to leave without worries but she refused and insisted on staying. Nanny Lee had no choice but to let her have her way.


    Once it was time for dinner, Nanny Li persuaded with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, the sky is getting dark. You should hurry and return to have dinner with Young Master! The servants have to eat soon before returning to work for a little while more so there won¡¯t be any need for you toe back after dinner! Don¡¯t worry, this old servant will keep a tight watch over them!¡±


    Sang Wan felt hesitant at first but said with a smile, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then let¡¯s all call it a day. Nanny, let¡¯s go back together and discuss after dinner!¡±


    With more people around, Sang Wan felt that it would reduce the awkwardness between her and Shi Fengju.


    Who knew that Nanny Li would shake her head and say, ¡°That won¡¯t do. This old servant will have some rice and soup in the nearby kitchen with the rest of the servants. Getting the job done is most important now! Young Mistress, there¡¯s no need for you to worry about something as trivial as this. Hurry back to Ning Garden! Young Master must still be waiting for you! There¡¯s this old servant here, so there¡¯s no need for you to worry!¡±


    Sang Wan ran out of excuses and could only agree with a smile as she returned with heavy steps.


    Fortunately, Shi Fengju had sent word that he would not be having dinner tonight with her and would eating with his two uncles.


    Sang Wan felt relieved as the weight in her heart finally vanished. She hurriedly ordered the servants to bring in dinner. Once she had her dinner, she rested for a while and wash herself up before going to bed.


    The moment sheid down, rather than feeling more rxed, her heart felt even more tensed as she began to worry.

 Chapter 164

    <h4>Rebirth of an Abandoned Woman Chapter 164</h4>


    She had already said what she wanted to, but she did not know what kind of reply she would get! However, she did not want to guess! His thoughts were clear at times, but she could not read him on most asions.


    While she was in a daze, the bed curtains were pulled open and someone sat gently on the bedside, gazing at her without blinking his eyes.


    Because his gaze was piercing and willful, Sang Wan seemed to have sensed it and opened her eyes instinctively.


    She lifted her gaze to meet his eyes, which was as deep as a pit and gleaming like a star.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze suddenly became vivid. There was gentleness in his eyes as he smiled towards her.


    Sang Wan¡¯s body stiffened slightly and her mind was somewhat startled as she looked at him dazely. She did not know what he wanted when he sat by her bedside.


    Shi Fengju sighed softly. He raised his hand and softly caress her cheek which was warm and red, smooth and tender, just like touching the surface of a hard boiled egg; he could not resist.


    Sang Wan was not used to his unbridled show of affection and instinctively tilted her head to escape his hand, but it followed like a shadow.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju said softly, ¡°I have thought through it carefully; I promise you, I will let her go.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s breathing stopped momentarily and her hands were clenched tightly under the nket, ¡°Are you really sure about it?¡±


    ¡°What choice do I have!¡± Shi Fengju gently pinched her cheek and said, ¡°You¡¯re stubborn, but I just can¡¯t bear to part with you. Other than agreeing, what choice do I have?¡±


    Sang Wan flushed, embarrassed, then bit her lip and lowered her gaze.


    ¡°But you have to give me some time. I can only discuss this once she¡¯s past her mourning period, okay?¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sang Wan nodded her head. Since it was almost New Year soon, she was not expecting him to do so right away anyway. If more trouble was to happen during New Year, Wang Shi would definitely be angered and would me her for instigating it ¡ª¡ª After all, she did instigate it.


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Then that¡¯s settled! Anyway, I promise you that I will send her away. Actually, this might be a good thing for me as well!¡± A hint of sadness shed past Shi Fengju eyes. Being the person he was today, he could neither face her nor get closer to her. There was no longer any meaning for him to have her stay, even for herself.


    ¡°Do you have a n already?¡± Sang Wan asked softly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Shi Fengju nodded and smiled, ¡°I do, and I¡¯ll let you know when the timees.¡±


    Seeing that he was not going to reveal his n to her, she did not probe any further. She doubted his answer was flippant since he had thought about it for half a day,


    Sang Wan nodded her head lightly.


    ¡°Then, you¡¯ll promise not to leave me?¡± Shi Fengju gazed at her with eagerness in his eyes


    ¡°Yes.¡± Sang Wan thought about it and nodded her head lightly again, but she did not dare to look him in his eyes.


    Shi Fengju was ted. He leaned over and gave her a peck on her cheek before whispering softly in her ear, ¡°Sang Wan, we are really husband and wife now...¡±


    Sang Wan tensed up and shut her eyes but she did not make a sound.


    The edge of Shi Fengju¡¯s lips hooked into a smile. Since she did not oppose, it naturally meant that she agreed with him.


    He undid his robe and threw it aside before pulling away the nket to enter the warm and fragrant bed. He touched her soft and delicate body underneath a pink silk undershirt; both their hearts swayed as one.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju leaned on her body. Both his hands held the sides of her body firmly as he kissed her forehead, eyes, nose, cheeks, lips, temple, and earlobe without stopping. But Sang Wan did not resist and kept her eyes shut even though her eyshes were trembling. Her breathing hastened and both her cheeks were red; the heat from her embarrassment was enough to set her aze.


    ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t be afraid! Open your eyes and look at me!¡± Shi Fengju was delighted. He stopped with the tender kisses and looked at her with a smile.


    Sang Wan listened and slowly opened her eyes; her gaze met his. That handsome face of his was contracted with ecstasy which made his face red with excitement. This caused her face to burn even more with embarrassment and she hastily shut her eyes. Shi Fengju could not help but chuckle.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju suddenly hugged her tightly and ced his hands on her delicate body as he stroked her gently. Not long after, she almost felt as if she was kneaded into a puddle of water. Sang Wan had never been treated like this before so how could she hold herself back? She could not help but squeal. That added fuel to the fire as the man became even more passionate and started to kiss her lips crazily while caressing her delicate body.


    Both their clothes were off. Shi Fengju held her hands and ced them on his lower back as he embraced her tightly. Their skin were in contact with each other; their bodies felt as if they were melting into one from the heat and they could not control themselves from moaning.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan! Give it to me!¡± Shi Fengju said breathlessly as he reached out to her lower body.


    Sang Wan let out a frail moan. Her legs clenched tightly together and her face was as red as fresh blood. That ce, that ce, she could feel it bing sticky below. Why wouldn¡¯t she be ashamed to let him touch it? Even if it wasn¡¯t, she still wouldn¡¯t allow him to!


    ¡°Sang Wan, listen to me! Give it to me...¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s desire rose. He gently kissed the corner of her mouth and her cheeks as he forced his hand through her legs. His hand felt wet and sticky, and he chuckled. Sang Wan opened her eyes and red at him grievously while biting at her lips, ¡°You...¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan! My Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju gently nibbled at her lips. He gave a smile and bent his back before pressing down on both of her legs. The iron-like thing burning at his crotch pressed down at the most delicate part of her body as he whispered breathlessly at the side of her ear, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m going in. Bear with it!¡±


    He was a man, there was no way he could continue to hold himself back.


    Shi Fengju jerked with his strength. Even though only the head went in, Sang Wan was already moaning out in pain. Her body tensed up and wouldn¡¯t ease up at all.


    It hurt! Absentmindedly, the memories of her past life rushed forth. Those memories of her past life were all so clear that they seemed like just yesterday. The tearing pain brought nothing but hurt and shame! If things were to be the way it was in her past life, how could she bear with it? Sang Wan bit her lip as tears streamed down her face uncontrobly.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan!¡± Upon seeing her cry in pain, he couldn¡¯t help but feel his heart ache. He gently wiped her tears with his hands, kissing and stroking her in order to console her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯ll be more gentle! After this pain, you won¡¯t feel it anymore, so bear with it a little, okay?¡±


    Sang Wan was done venting her feelings. She opened her eyes and looked at him with her moist yet innocent eyes, with traces of tears on her face, ¡°You, be more gentle!¡±


    ¡°I will. Seeing you in pain makes my heart ache too!¡± Shi Fengju smiled as he hugged her and started his passionate kissing again. His tongue pried open her fragrant lips andtched onto her soft and nimble tongue as his body rubbed against hers. His hands that were on her soft chest rubbed vigorously, and Sang Wan was soon dizzy from pleasure; other than being foolishly aroused, her mind was nk.


    When she returned to her senses and could feel the pain again, he had already pushed himself deep inside her. She belonged entirely to him now.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Sang Wan could not help but scream out loud as she clenched her lower body.


    ¡°Sang Wan, rx a little. Don¡¯t clench so tightly!¡± Shi Fengju found it unbearable and heid on her body, panting for air. Ayer of sweat formed on his forehead.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s loud and painful scream startled Liu Ya who was on night duty. Liu Ya rushed to the entrance and ced her ears by the door as she tried to listen in on what was happening inside the chamber. While knocking on the door, she shouted, ¡°Young Mistress, are you alright?¡± She subconsciously imagine Shi Fengju bullying her mistress.


    Sang Wan was greatly rmed and she clenched herself even more tightly.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju warned in a hoarse voice as he rubbed her waist, ¡°Sang Wan, calm down!¡±


    Sang Wan gradually rxed her body and looked at him in panic: What do we do?


    Shi Fengju could not help butugh when he saw her fawn-like innocence and lovely eyes looking straight at him. He embraced her tightly and raised his voice, ¡°Your young mistress identally bumped her head, it¡¯s alright now!¡±


    Hearing that Sang Wan had bumped her head, how was that alright? Liu Ya hastily asked, ¡°Then should this servant to bring some ointment? Is Young Mistress really alright?¡±


    Why was this servant so stubborn!


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, we¡¯ll apply the ointment tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s words epassed a warning.


    Since Sang Wan did not make a sound, Liu Ya did not dare to confront Shi Fengju and could only answer hurriedly with a ¡°Yes¡± before returning to her room to sleep.


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips and giggle. Shi Fengju held her face up and smiled, ¡°You still dare tough. Why did you scream so loudly? Huh?¡± As he spoke, he carried her body and started thrusting.


    Sang Wan was taken by surprise and was about to scream again, but Shi Fengju was a step ahead of her and covered her mouth, muffling her moans and screams.


    The pain slowly receded and as her insides became more moist and smooth, she gradually began to feel a foreign sensation. There was a little bit of fear, but also excitement and anticipation. She could not exin the sensation clearly, but she knew that her body and heart were restless. They were itching unbearably as the sensation felt good yet painful. There was also something that was eager to escape but just could not seem toe out.


    All she could do was hug him tightly as they rubbed against each other and moan. The moaning from her small mouth only excited the man further which caused him to move faster and harder.


    ¡°Lord, Lord!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s pupil shrunk as she shuddered and cried out softly.


    ¡°Call me Fengju!¡± Shi Fengju gasped for breath as he forcefully kissed her flushed neck.


    ¡°Fengju, Fengju! Stop, stop!¡± Sang Wan cried out softly for mercy. Her delicate face showed emotions of bothfort and pain as she whimpered like a kitten.


    Upon seeing her delicate and frail look, Shi Fengju grabbed both her legs and hooked them around his body as he said softly, ¡°Are youing soon? Be good, don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯m with you...¡±


    After a period of a violent rush, he finally reached her deepest part. She bit her lip and moaned out loud as her body jerked violently before convulsing. Her mind went entirely white and her body was warm and moist as she finally let herself go. At the same time, Shi Fengju hugged her tightly as he released inside her, filling her inside.

 Chapter 165 - Her Objective

    <strong>Chapter 165: Her Objective</strong>


    Sang Wan gasped for air as sheid stationary, her energy spiriting away from her body. This sort of feeling was, was¡ª¡ª


    Never had she experienced it before, and she did not know how she should describe it. The feeling of both fear and anticipation; this was her first time having such a feeling in both lifetimes.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju raised her head and gave a tender kiss on her cheek as he tidied her messy hair. Softly, he said with a smile, ¡°Tired?¡±


    Sang Wan blushed and she gently shook her head before hurriedly nodding her head.


    Seeing than she was still stupefied, Shi Fengju could not help butugh and gently pinch her chin lightly as he whispered, ¡°Lie down first, I will give you a wipe.¡± He gently exited her body, and a hot current surged out at the same time, which made her blush; she did not dare to move.


    After cleaning up, the two crashed onto the bed again. Shi Fengjufortably let out a sigh and caressed her smooth and tender cheek as he said, ¡°Sang Wan, you are finally my wife!¡± One of his arms went behind the back of her neck and the other hugged onto her waist, keeping her close in his embrace.


    ¡°Fengju, don¡¯t leave me!¡± Sang Wan softly said as she cuddled into his embrace.


    ¡°I won¡¯t!¡± Feeling both happy and affectionate, Shi Fengju hugged her more tightly, ¡°Sang Wan, I will dote on and protect you forever!¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Sang Wan raised her eyes to look at him and gave a gentle smile. He was her husband and also her sky. With just his affirmation, she was satisfied.


    ¡°Sang Wan! How can I bear to mistreat you!¡± Shi Fengju became even more passionate and he uncontrobly lowered his head to peck her face. Softly, he said, ¡°It¡¯ste now, go to sleep.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sang Wan meekly snuggled in his embrace and gradually closed her eyes.


    Not long after, his breathing became deep and stable. He was clearly deeply asleep. As for Sang Wan, she gently opened her eyes before entering a trance.


    His arms were hugging her tightly. She squirmed gently, but his hands did not loosen. Not wanting to wake him up, she stopped squirming and let him continue hugging her. This was her first time being intimate with a man and she was somewhat unustomed to it. As her breath touched his strong and white chest, she felt ufortable and gently turned her face to face elsewhere.


    The recurring pain from her body constantly reminded her that what had happened was real and not a dream.


    Sang Wan was out of sorts for a moment as she sighed silently.


    Separation was never her best option. What she said during their first night together was nothing but a dy tactic. In actual fact, she had always held a gleam of hope within her.


    She was not alone. Her parents doted on her a lot and her oldest brother and sister-inw did their best to marry her off. If she were to bring home a divorce document, it would be too cruel to them. As a missy from the Sang Family, how could she so easily ept a divorce?


    In any case, she was already married. All she hoped for was to live her life peacefully. Shi Fengju was also considered a gentleman, and he was not a bad marriage candidate.


    After her second brother became a top escorted examinee, she had strengthened her conviction. With a divorced sister, it would definitely affect his reputation. That made it harder for her to leave. It was also because of her second brother who gave her the support she needed to stay in the Shi family. She knew that on the ount of her second brother, her mother-inw would definitely not let her leave. With countless probing, she finally came to a conclusion.


    Stabilising her position in this household a step at a time, all she wanted was to fulfill her duties as a wife, live in harmony with her husband thereafter with mutual respect as husband and wife, take what was needed from each other, and live out their lives peacefully. As for everything else, she did not have any other expectations.


    For a very long time, Sang Wan had been thinking about what she said today. It was best if Gu Fangzi left at the end. Even if things were to change and she ended up staying, he would definitely have a sense of guilt to her because of what he had promised her today. Adding to her hard-earned influence and the backing from her second brother, her position was now stable and she could lead a good life.


    Gu Fangzi would not be able to easily hurt her anymore.


    And that was enough!


    Giving her everything to him was just a matter of time. She did not n to remain as a fake couple with him forever, and she needed a son to further solidify her position in the household. Besides, that was also a duty of a wife, wasn¡¯t it? She would be apetent wife!


    Having lived one lifetime, she would not remain naive and trust others easily. She had to n and fight for herself in order to make them all happen.


    If she was destined to tangle with Gu Fangzi for her entire life, then she would leave it up to God to see whose life was longer! Who knows who would have thestugh at the end!


    Her past and present life, her now and future; the intertwined time and space, her dishevelled memories; all were linked in countless ways. Sang Wan fell asleep dazedly after spending half the night letting her imagination run wild and thinking extensively. Now that everything seemed to be sorted out, she could not pinpoint the exact feeling but she felt a sense of emptiness inside of her.


    Sang Wan was in a light sleep; she woke up when Shi Fengju caressed her face. Just a few strokes and she woke up, opening her passionate eyes slowly.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake,¡± Shi Fengju lowered his head and smiled. He moved towards her cheek and gave her a kiss, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re beautiful!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face reddened as she shyly avoided his gaze and said, ¡°It¡¯s almost dawn, time to get up. There¡¯s much to be done today!¡± As she spoke, she sat up while hugging the nket before extending her hands to reach for her undergarments and clothes that were at the side.


    Shi Fengju hugged his pillow with both hands behind his nape as he smiled while looking at her. His heart filledpletely with joy and satisfaction. As of now, she belonged entirely to him and he could look at her as he pleased without being modest.


    The more he looked, his eyes deepened and his lower body unknowingly reacted. The woman in front of him with snow white skin, beautiful face, and her body half-covered by a nket was extremely alluring. Her ck satin-like hair was soft and gentle as it scattered down her clear white back. There were a few strands hanging loosely over her smooth and small shoulder which added to the charm.


    Shi Fengju wasn¡¯t able to hold himself back. ¡°Ah! What are you doing!¡± Sang Wan cried when he reached out and pulled her back onto the bed. Before she could finish her sentence, Shi Fengju turned over and pressed himself over her body as he ripped off the undergarments that were freshly on her, revealing her white and supple chest. Shi Fengju licked his lips and smiled, ¡°Sang Wan, it¡¯s still too early for morning greetings, let¡¯s lie in bed a little more...¡±


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t merely to sleep; without finishing his words, he lowered his head and opened his mouth to suck on her beautiful pink circle. A shock ran through her body, she trembled and moaned while helplessly hugging his body tightly.


    ¡°You, be gentle a little... Otherwise others might hear us!¡± Sang Wan said softly.


    Shi Fengju took a breather and kissed her chest before smiling at her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will!¡±


    Sure enough, he became gentle. However, he was too gentle and it became more unbearable for her. Her face was flushed and she bit her lip to hold her moans back. Tears trickled down her eyes but they were gently wiped away by Shi Fengju.


    Nanny Li, Zhide, and the rest felt it was strange for both their masters not to wake up on time as per usual, but it was quickly exined.


    ¡°Young Mistress must be tired due to the past two days. You all be quiet and don¡¯t wake her up! Zhide, let¡¯s hurry over to Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavillion. Liu Ya, you stay here and serve Young Mistress and Young Master. When they wake up, take instructions from them!¡± Nanny Li ordered.


    Liu Ya hurriedly agreed. Her heart was in disorder. Sang Wan¡¯s scream fromst night had kept her up all night. And today, she did not wake up on time. Could¡ª¡ª something really have happened?


    Liu Ya was restless and worried, but she could not simply knock on the door and could only wait. The young servants found Liu Ya acting oddly and they stared at each other, wondering what she was worrying about.


    After the two in the chamber were done messing around, they chatted for a while before getting out of bed.


    When getting off the bed, Sang Wan could not help but knit her brows slightly in pain. Shi Fengju hurriedly held her and asked gently, ¡°Does it hurt a lot? Do you need me to ask the servants to prepare hot water for you to soak in?¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Sang Wan blushed and shook her head, ¡°It isn¡¯t really that painful. It¡¯ll be fine after a while. It¡¯s already time. I have to hurry to greet Mother before handling some things from Third Aunt¡¯s side!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to be in a hurry, I will apany you.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Sang Wan smiled and nimbly got dressed before helping Shi Fengju put on his robe. Shi Fengjuughed as he opened his arms to let her serve him.


    Looking at the messy bed sheet, Sang Wan could not help but feel embarrassed. They had already changed the bed sheet oncest night, but after messing around this morning, it needed to be changed again.


    ¡°Let the servants do it! Let¡¯s go now!¡± Shi Fengju felt nothing about it. He covered her ear and chuckled softly, ¡°Rx, I¡¯ve already hidden the bed sheet fromst night. I will find an opportunity to bring it back to the study room to wash. No one will see it.¡±


    At first, Sang Wan was puzzled. But she soon understood what he meant: That bedsheet had bloodstains on it so of course it mustn¡¯t be seen by others! Her face flushed as she pouted and stared at him with a soft hum.


    Shi Fengju chuckled and uncontrobly kissed her face again. The feeling of them being so intimate with each other was fresh and wonderful. How he wished they could be together forever and never be apart!


    ¡°Stop it!¡± Sang Wan pushed him gently and roughly tidied up the bed sheet as she heeded his advice to let the servants do it.


    When the two of them opened the door, Liu Ya dashed straight up to them while looking at Sang Wan, ¡°Young Mistress, are you alright!¡±


    Sang Wan was feeling overly self-conscious, there was no way she could withstand the gaze and questioning. Her face blushed and she unknowingly hid behind Shi Fengju before opening her mouth with great difficulty, ¡°I¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°This servant! Why are you being so noisy early in the morning!¡± Shi Fengju hugged her and gave a light pat. ring at Liu Ya unhappily, he added, ¡°Are you not going to help your young mistressb her hair and wash up?¡±


    Liu Ya was not really afraid of Shi Fengju. She scanned them suspiciously and felt that both of them were somewhat odd today. However, she could not exactly identify what it was. She asked again, ¡°Is Young Mistress really alright? Didn¡¯t you hit your headst night? Young Mistress, does it still hurt? This servant has already prepared the ointment. Should I help Young Mistress apply it?¡±


    ¡°No need, no need anymore!¡± Sang Wan felt guilty and could not wait to bury her head in a hole. She hurriedly gave a weak smile and said, ¡°Really, there¡¯s no need for the ointment anymore. It¡¯s already healed!¡±

 Chapter 166 - What Is Wrong With You Today?

    <strong>Chapter 166: What Is Wrong With You Today?</strong>


    Liu Ya was still overly suspicious and continued to inspect Sang Wan, determined to find out what happened.


    Shi Fengju was in a good mood today. ring humorously at Liu Ya, he scolded, ¡°What are you standing in a daze for? Have you turned silly?¡±


    ¡°Understood, this servant will ask someone to fetch the water at once!¡± Liu Ya was taken aback and hurriedly replied.


    ¡°That servant seems very loyal to you.¡± Shi Fengju smiled at Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan shook her head andughed helplessly.


    Shi Fengju was done washing up in a sh. He then walked around Sang Wan and sat next to her. With a smile on his face, he looked at the servant helping Sang Wan do her hair, wash her face, and do her make-up; it brought him great joy. The servant became so nervous that she almost could not hold theb steadily with him staring intensely from the side. Normally, she could still converse and joke with Sang Wan. But today, she did not even dare to let out a deep breath.


    Many of the servants were puzzled at the sight of their young master being clingy. Their young mistress would often have a shy smile on her face when her gaze met with their young master, just what had those two ¡ª¡ª or rather, why were they more lovey-dovey than when they were newlyweds?


    Others soon cast that thought aside, but not Liu Ya. When she brought a few young servants to clean up the chamber, she found out that the bed sheet was changed. However, the old one was nowhere to be found.


    Liu Ya could not help but be confused.


    Although she did not have a lifelong of experiences, she was not at the age where she knew nothing. Seeing the obvious signs of frenzy on the bed sheet, her thoughts finally cleared up was suddenly enlightened. The young servants gaze across at Liu Ya to see if anything was wrong, but Liu Ya quickly waved her hands and said with a smile, ¡°Nothing, nothing! Hurry up and change the bed sheet and tidy up the house! Later when the weather is good, take the bedding and pillows out to bask under the sun!¡± After she gave her instructions, she went out to find Sang Wan as her heart was itching to confirm her conclusion.


    However, with Shi Fengju always by Sang Wan¡¯s side, Liu Ya had no chance to ask. Feeling entirely restless, she paced about with an uneasy heart.


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan quickly noticed her strange behavior and Shi Fengju could not help but be furious at this servant who had not been acting normal since morning!


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Shi Fengju shouted with a deep voice, ¡°Go and check if breakfast is ready. If it is, prepare to serve it!¡±


    ¡°To answer Young Master, this servant has already asked for breakfast to be prepared!¡± Liu Ya hurriedly replied, but she was unwilling to move away.


    Shi Fengju spoke with a calm face, ¡°You¡¯ve been pacing up and down for the entire morning, is something bothering you? If there is, then say it!¡±


    Sang Wan saw that he was at the verge of ring up, and she gave him a re. Displeased at Shi Fengju, she hurriedly said with a smile, ¡°Why are you getting angry at a servant! Liu Ya, hurry and urge them to ready our breakfast!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya could only suppress her doubt and wait for the right chance to ask as she hurriedly left.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be angry, she¡¯s only..., only concerned about me...¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face felt a little hot. The scream from yesterday must have gave her a shock.


    Shi Fengju also recalled the incident and he chuckled as he looked deeply into her eyes, ¡°Your servant is a loyal one! But she¡¯s just too upright! Did she think that I will bully you?¡±


    Sang Wan red at him without saying a word, but she thought to herself: But you did yesterday!


    Seeing the slight anger on her bashful face, it made him love her even more. He could not contain his joy when he looked at her from time to time, and he felt both happy and contented.


    After the two tidied themselves, they went to the side hall for breakfast.


    ¡°All of you are dismissed, there¡¯s no need to serve us here!¡± With a beauty in front of him, he wanted to be alone and intimate with her. Why would he want any disturbance?


    When Sang Wan saw his gaze fixed on her and saw some yfulness leaping in his eyes, she knew that he was up to no good. But now that she belonged to him, how could she refuse him? And so, she smiled and left it up to him.


    Liu Ya and the rest took his order and retreat away silently.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju could not wait any longer and he pulled her into his embrace. Rubbing his cheek against her¡¯s, he asked intimately, ¡°What do you like to eat? I will pick it up for you.¡±


    Sang Wan red at him before picking up a piece of his favourite steamed dumpling with chicken fillings and ced it on his te. Grudgingly, she said, ¡°I know what you like, but as for what I like, you had to ask me.¡±


    Shi Fengju was fond of her acting like a spoiled child, but he also felt a twinge of guilt from her words. He held her closely and said, ¡°Sang Wan, I will remember what you like from now on! You treat me so well, surely I have to return the favor!¡± After he saying so, he asked what she liked.


    Sang Wan¡¯s most favorite food was the one-inch long dumpling stuffed with tofu, fungus, and ham. After telling Shi Fengju with a smile, he picked one up before bringing it close to her mouth,¡±Come, are you satisfied that I¡¯m serving you for once?¡±


    Sang Wanughed as she subconsciously looked around to check if they were alone before opening her mouth to eat it.


    The two of them were lovey-dovey and messed around for a while until Sang Wan rushed him to hurry as she was very much concerned about giving her morning greeting to Wang Shi as well as the matter with Shi Third family. After breakfast, the two rinsed their mouth and drape over their woollen cloak as they made their way to Wang Shi¡¯s ce.


    ¡°Why are youter than usual?¡± At Wang Shi¡¯s ce, Shi Yumei was already present. Seeing that they werete to arrive, she couldn¡¯t help but reproach.


    ¡°The matters yesterday were exhausting.¡± Shi Fengju smiled weakly.


    Shi Yumei red at him and growled softly. She was obviously unhappy with Sang Wan for not responding.


    ¡°There are indeed more things to handle these two days. Sang Wan, you¡¯ve worked hard!¡± However, Wang Shi also added, ¡°But no matter how difficult things may be, they must be properly handles so that others won¡¯t be able to pick out any problems!¡±


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. Sang Wan has always kept it in mind!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly smiled and replied respectfully.


    Wang Shi smiled and nodded in satisfaction, ¡°That¡¯s good to hear!¡±


    Sang Wan quickly reported to Wang Shi the punishment arranged yesterday, as well as the agenda for today. It included the things that the household had to prepare at the end of the year, various other purchases, and the iing tributes from the various country houses.


    Wang Shi listened with a smile on her face. She did not question much and was not fussy. At times when Sang Wan asked for her opinion, she would readily blurt a few words such as ¡°Just do as you deem fit!¡± and ¡°Ask the head servants to find out aboutst year¡¯s practices!¡± Other than that, there was no other words for Sang Wan.


    ¡°Ah, I say, Fengju, are you alright?¡± Shi Yumei suddenly spoke out loud as she eyed Shi Fengju suspiciously.


    In that instant, everyone¡¯s gaze shifted curiously to Shi Fengju from Shi Yumei¡¯s words.


    ¡°Big Sister, what do you mean? There¡¯s nothing wrong with me!¡± Shi Fengju was baffled.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Shi Yumei remained doubtful and said, ¡°You seem absent-minded today and at times you would look and smile at your wife. Did something happen?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face redden and she lowered her gaze. She thought in her heart that something must be wrong with him, how could he not know how to restrain himself and even got spotted by someone else.


    Without a doubt, Shi Fengju was definitely in a trance as he admired his wife, finding her more beautiful and lovely the more he looked at her. Thinking about the extraordinary sensation from yesterday night and today morning, as well as the pleasure from pressing himself over her body, his mouth unknowingly twisted into a smile. Who knew that his sister would point that out and make a fuss about it.


    Shi Fengju found himself in a difficult situation. After giving a light cough, he knitted his brows and said, ¡°What? Nonsense! I was only focused on the conversation between Mother and Sang Wan. Did I even do what you said I did?¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t? You aren¡¯t acting weird now, but you were just now; you definitely were!¡± Shi Yumei was certain.


    ¡°Big Sister, you should stop behaving so nonsensical everyday!¡± Shji Fengju helplessly eximed before looking at Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, let¡¯s go take a look at Ji Cui Tower and see how the preparations are going! The decorations also have to be put up soon.¡±


    ¡°Leave then!¡± Wang Shi nodded when she heard him, ¡°Your Third Aunt sure is an impetuous one; wanting to move in so urgently! The preparation should be fine as long as all the important items are moved in. As for the misceneous items, just let them handle it themselves!¡±


    Sang Wan took the chance to get up. She smiled and agreed as she left with Shi Fengju.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know anything about handling household affairs, why don¡¯t you stay and apany Mother? What¡¯s the point of going and adding trouble? Just let Sang Wan handle it!¡± Shi Yumei could not help but exim as she just could not stand the sight of Shi Fengju following Sang Wan around everyday.


    ¡°I¡¯m more familiar with Third Uncle and Third Aunt¡¯s preferences. Is there any problem with me going along? Sang Wan never had much interactions with them, so how would she know much about them? Big Sister, would you like toe with us?¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    Shi Yumei was disinclined to arouse more trouble for herself and she shook her head in revulsion upon hearing him before giving him a re, ¡°If you want to go, go, but I won¡¯t!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and left, pulling Sang Wan with him.


    After leaving Wang Shi¡¯s ce, Sang Wan hinted the servants that were following them to retreat away. Feeling both embarrassed and angry, she then turned towards Shi Fengju and said with her teeth clenched, ¡°You have to restrain yourself in front of others. Otherwise, others will make fun of us! You, you¡ª¡ª¡±


    Shi Fengju could not helped butugh as he gently stroke her cheek and said, ¡°¡®I¡¯ what? Who asked you to be so lovely? No matter how long I look at you, I just cannot enough. It¡¯s a pity that today¡¯s matter cannot be dyed. If not, we could have stayed at home and talk idly; there won¡¯t be any need for us to leave Ning Garden to suffer!¡±


    ¡°Your words are getting more ridiculous as you speak!¡± Sang Wan was displeased at him, ¡°If you continue to remain unconcerned of my position, then I¡¯ll get angry. If the servants saw us and start spreading rumors, how do you expect me to continue managing them?¡±


    Shi Fengju turned dejected as he nodded and sighed softly, ¡°You¡¯re right, I was careless! Don¡¯t worry, I will pay more attention of my behavior!¡±


    Seeing him dejected and afraid that she might have hurt his feelings, she mumbled softly, ¡°At most, at most when we return to our house...you can do whatever you like...¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes brightened and he asked with a smile.


    Sang Wan blushed and she eximed, ¡°Nothing! If you didn¡¯t hear me, then forget it! We should hurry along now!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°I heard it clearly! You better honour your words!¡±


    Sang Wan red at him quietly as heughed. Reaching his hand out to hold her in his arms, he quickly put it back down after a second thought and they made their way to Ji Cui Tower together.


    At Ji Cui Tower, Nanny Li and two other household department servants were working hard atmanding the rest of the servants to shift and ce the various furniture in position. Seeing the two masters arriving, they hurriedly stopped and greeted them.


    ¡°Young Master and Young Mistress, you¡¯re here!¡± Nanny Li stepped forward and said with a smile, ¡°Young Master and Young Mistress, there¡¯s no need for you to worry. By morning, everything will be properly ced. Things like decorations, furniture, and utensils have already been checked ording to the list by Liu Ya yesterday. They will all be move from the storeroom by afternoon! For everything else that we do not understand, Young Master and Young Mistress will have to make the decisions when the timees. But for now, you can go back and have a rest first!¡±

 Chapter 167 - hy Aren’t We Going Back To Qing Hui Garden?

    <h4>Chapter 167: Why Aren¡¯t We Going Back To Qing Hui Garden?</h4>


    Seeing that everything was in order, Shi Fengju smiled at Sang Wan, ¡°Nanny is right, I think we should head back first!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded with a smile, ¡°Alright then! We¡¯ll take a quick look at Han Shuang Pavillion before heading back.¡±


    The couple held each other¡¯s hand as they headed to Han Shuang Pavillion. With no sign of disorder there as well, they went back to Ning Garden.


    Upon entering a nearby room, Shi Fengju quickly chased out a maidservant after she served them tea. The two of them sat close to each other as they spoke, and this naturally felt very different from the other days. Shi Fengju was at the peak of his passion, and thought that his wife looked good from every angle. His passionate gaze and yful smirk reflected his iparable feelings for her, and this put Sang Wan¡¯s heart on cloud nine for the entire day. She barely noticed the time passing quickly.


    In the afternoon when the courtyard was thoroughly tidied up and prepared, a final check was made to ensure that nothing was missed before the huge furniture like beds, tables and chairs, to the smaller items like the tea cups and pots were moved. The firece was ordered to be lit before the two went to the guest house to invite the Third Shi family.


    Nanny Gui had already nced at the entrance several times, and after seeing them, her heart was finally at ease and she smiled as she greeted them, ¡°Young Master and Young Mistress, you¡¯re finally here! Come in quickly, Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi are waiting inside!¡±


    ¡°Sorry for making Third Uncle and Third Aunt wait!¡± Shi Fengju and Sang Wan went inside with a smile.


    Third Old Mistress Shi had long since packed her entire family¡¯s luggage and ced it in a corner. It seemed they were eager to move out as soon as possible.


    Seeing so, Shi Fengju and Sang Wan spoke no further and went to give the instructions to the servants after giving a few words of greeting. The luggage and belongings were carried by ten servants and were to be brought to Ji Cui Tower and Han Shuang Pavillion respectively. The young couple gestured to personally guide Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi while Nanny Li led Shi Yuzhen and her sister to their residence.


    Shi Yuzhen and her sister cheered and hurriedly ordered the servants to carry their luggage over while they ran ahead.


    ¡°It must¡¯ve been very sudden, sorry to trouble the both of you!¡± Third Old Master Shi smiled gently.


    ¡°Third Uncle, no need to be so polite! After all, this is what we ought to do!¡± Shi Fengju and Sang Wan smiled and replied.


    However, Third Old Mistress Shi asked suspiciously, ¡°Ji Cui Tower? Why ¡ª¡ª are we not going back to Qing Hui Garden? Don¡¯t tell me someone is staying in Qing Hui Garden? Or has it been changed to be used for some other purpose?¡±


    ¡°Nothing of that sort,¡± Shi Fengju quickly replied, ¡°That year when Third Uncle and Third Aunt left, Qing Hui Garden was locked and never upied. That ce is huge and difficult to tidy up in a short period of time so Ji Cui Tower was readied first for Third Uncle and Third Aunt to stay in temporarily. Next year when the temperature bes warmer, we¡¯ll clean up Qing Hui Garden and Third Uncle and Third Aunt can move in there when the timees!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi agreed softly but looked a little unhappy. Nanny Gui could not help but cut in, ¡°For so many years, Qing Hui Garden was locked and no one was ordered to look after it? That, that¡ª¡ª¡±


    For a moment, Shi Fengju did not know how to respond at all. That year, Mother was unhappy with Third Uncle being granted the position of an official. Immediately after they left, she ordered Qing Hui Garden to be locked. Not only was it never maintained, even the locked was never opened before. Surely it must have turned rusty by now!


    ¡°Enough, enough! Let¡¯s get moving! I think Ji Cui Tower is pretty good. We¡¯re a family so staying anywhere in the household is fine! There is much to do for the year-end, where would our niece-inw have the time? Qing Hui Garden can be discussed again next year!¡± Third Old Master Shi red once at Nanny Gui.


    Third Old Mistress Shi then ordered the servants to begin moving their luggage, but she did not forget to let Shi Fengju and Sang Wan know, ¡°Then next year, we¡¯ll have to trouble you again! The days that we¡¯ll be spending in the household will not be short; I think it will be good for us to stay in a residence we¡¯re more familiar with!¡±


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan naturally agreed. However, the two secretly sighed to themselves. That is a residence closed off for more than seven years, who knew how tall the weeds have grown, there will be so much work to be done! Even the roof has to be changed.


    After arriving at Ji Cui Tower, Third Old Master Shi let Shi Fengju and Sang Wan return first. Seeing the many luggage, it would be inconvenient to remain so the two quickly smiled and took their leave.


    ¡°Dear! You are too passive!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sat down on the chair and said angrily, ¡°Even if we left home, were we nevering back again? Eldest Sister-inw must¡¯ve done so on purpose! She purposely left our residence in such a state! A residence locked for seven to eight years, can it even be inhabited! Dear, they must¡¯ve done so on purpose! If you don¡¯t go hard on them, how do we spend our days in this household? Won¡¯t we just be bullied to death!¡±


    Third Old Master Shi gave a slight smile after hearing her and he answered unhurriedly, ¡°Just listen to yourself, listen to yourself, why are you getting angry over nothing? When we aren¡¯t at home, Eldest Sister-inw not touching our residence is also a form of respect! Anyways, the one who helped the court that year and resolved their problem was Big Brother. The court only gave the position as a reward in return. It was initially Big Brother¡¯s, but Father made the decision for me to have it. It goes without saying that we¡¯re the ones who¡¯ve benefited from Big Brother and Eldest Sister-inw. It is only natural for her to use that opportunity to vent! If our families were switched, could you still say that you wouldn¡¯t feel any bit of indignance?


    Third Old Mistress Shi said immediately after him, ¡°But Big Brother wasn¡¯t against it at that time. He was even very supportive of you! Unless Eldest Sister-inw doesn¡¯t understand what obeying her husband means? At the very least, she should know that doing business is very different from being an official; not anyone can be one!¡±


    Third Old Master Shiughed and said, ¡°Oh, are you saying that you know what obeying your husband means? Just look at yourself now, are you even listening to me? I didn¡¯t even say any words ofint, but you¡¯re the one feeling unhappy! Eldest Sister-inw being resentful is nothing but normal too!¡±


    ¡°You women are all the same!¡± Third Old Master Shi wanted to add, but after realizing that it was inappropriate to speak about his eldest sister-inw, he held it back.


    ¡°You!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi was exasperated.


    Third Old Master Shi smiled and said, ¡°Enough! Now that we¡¯re home, stop acting like how you would outside. Who in our family would bully us? Eldest Sister-inw isn¡¯t that sort of person, and neither is Second Brother nor Second Sister-inw. Not to mention Fengju and his wife. If they did harbor such thoughts, they would not have tried their best to clean up this house and still thought through everything so thoroughly for us! Everything is done so scrupulously! Just look around you, is there anything you can pick on? Think about it, right now, Fengju and his wife are the ones in-charge of this household. If they really want to give us a difficult time or make us look bad, they could easily have someone do some underhanded actions under a facade while we could only suffer in silence! ¡±


    ¡°You think!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi quickly harped on his words and said immediately, ¡°Does Ying Fang¡¯s fall not count? Luckily, that maidservant is loyal and pulled me away just in time. Otherwise, I would have been the one with a fracture!¡±


    Third Old Master Shi creased his brows and said, ¡°You are too sensitive! That day when we returned, there were so many things to do in the household; it is only reasonable that our niece-inw must have neglected a thing or two! Anyways, wasn¡¯t that nanny and the three maidservants punished severely already? And didn¡¯t our niece-inw also give an answer to you. Look, you made them finish tidying this ce up in two days, and they already did it, didn¡¯t they? When we entered, the firece was lit and hot tea was served, even our own children might not have done as well as them. Be more thoughtful and look at the good side of others!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi took one nce around and saw the silk curtains and pillows all prepared, and the table and chairs were all made from the same redwood. The chairs, cushions, bottles and containers, furnace, art portraits and calligraphy were all ced elegantly with style. There were even two blossoming carmine red apricot flowers in a vase by the window.


    The bright red charcoals sizzled softly, and the house was warm and cozy. There really wasn¡¯t anything to pick on.


    ¡°Fine! I can never win against you!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sighed and started instructing Nanny Gui and their servants to unpack all their luggage. The servants were all waiting, and upon receiving instructions, they scrambled to begin.


    The day gradually became dark. Third Old Mistress Shi instructed the servants to light thenterns up and led them to continue unpacking. Although it was only a resignation and many of their things were already left behind, there were still many things that they had brought along with them. In order to save space, different things were packed together haphazardly without any form of categorization. With every luggagepletely packed, unpacking them became troublesome!


    ¡°Father! Mother!¡± A child-like voice came from outside. When the door was pushed aside, it was Shi Yuzhen leading Shi Yulin over with two maidservants.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t done here? Why is it so messy!¡± Shi Yuzhen eximed.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t that fast! Sit at the side and don¡¯t make trouble for us!¡± While holding onto a list of items, Third Old Mistress Shi instructed the servants to move the things. After a short while, she suddenly raised her head and asked Shi Yuzhen and her sister, ¡°Both of you stay in Han Shuang Tower right? What do you think? Do you think it¡¯s good?¡±


    The two sisters looked at each other and smiled as they nodded, ¡°Everything was decorated nicely! Not worse than our other house!¡±


    Third Old Master Shi could not help but smile and said, ¡°What rubbish! What do you mean our other house? This is where we¡¯ll be staying now, do you understand me?¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Shi Yulin nodded, not fully understanding her father, while Shi Yuzhen stuck out her tongue quietly.


    ¡°Father! Mother! Let¡¯s have dinner first! We are all hungry!¡± Shi Yuzhen shouted and said, ¡°Nanny Li said that the kitchen will be sending the food over and asked us toe and eat with Father and Mother!¡±


    ¡°Now, listening to Xiao Lin, I really do feel hungry. Then let¡¯s eat first!¡± Third Old Master Shi quickly said too.


    Third Old Mistress Shi massaged her sore back and nodded with a smile, ¡°Time does fly!¡± After saying so, she instructed the servants to stop and to bring some warm water to wash their hands before asking whether the dishes had arrived.


    Nanny Gui hurriedly came forward with a smile, ¡°The kitchen sent the meal boxes over just now. This old servant took them and put them on the table over there!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi nodded and ordered for the meal boxes to be brought to the living room before asking if the warm water was ready.


    Ying Xia held a bronze basin while a young maidservant holding the warm kettle came forward from behind. Ying Xia smiled and said, ¡°The maidservants were unfamiliar here and took a while to find the basin! This water also had to be heated from the charcoal in the side room. It really is inconvenient without a kitchen nearby!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi nodded and looked at Third Old Master Shi subtly, implying that she was not the only one who found this ce inconvenient. This simply would not have happened if they were back in Qing Hui Garden. She merely said, ¡°Remember to remind me tomorrow to let Young Mistress know about this and have her arrange a small area in the side room to be turned into a kitchen! It will be more convenient for us!¡±


    Ying Xia hurriedly agreed and went to help her masters wash their hands clean.

 Chapter 168 - Mistreatment In The Kitchen

    <h4>Chapter 168: Mistreatment In The Kitchen</h4>


    In the small living room, the dishes were taken out from the tworge meal boxes. There was a total of eight dishes and a soup, and all of them looked just as amazing and appetizing.


    Just that¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Old Master, Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Gui sighed softly and said, ¡°These dishes are cold now, eating them may spoil your stomach. Why don¡¯t this old servant bring these to the kitchen and ask for them to be heated up!¡±


    Shi Third Old Mistress creased her eyebrows and said, ¡°Was hot water not ced inside the meal boxes to keep the food warm?¡±


    Nanny Gui quickly replied and said, ¡°They did add hot water in there, but maybe it was because the food was sent to us quite some time ago; this old servant touched a little of the water just now, and it isn¡¯t hot anymore.¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi went forward and took a look, there was no steam from the dishes at all. When she touched the edge of the te, it was cool.


    ¡°Forget it! Split these among yourself! It won¡¯t taste as good when reheated on a stove as well! Have the kitchen make us a bowl of noodles!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sighed.


    Having lived in the warmnds of Sichuan for many years, the weather back in Qingzhou felt unbearable. Even though their stomachs growled hungrily as they looked at the cold dishes again, none of them had the appetite to eat at all. Everyone looked at each other and agreed with Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s proposal.


    Nanny Gui quickly epted and thanked the masters. She ordered the servants to pack the food up and split it among themselves in their room, while Nanny Gui smiled and said, ¡°Old Master, Old Mistress, and the two missies, please wait a moment while this old servant goes to the kitchen to pass on the word!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t you have a small maidservant to do it instead? There¡¯s no need to go there personally!¡±


    ¡°What do they know? If their instructions are unclear, they might end upplicating matters! It¡¯d be better if I go, this is after all within my responsibility!¡± Nanny Gui smiled and said. She wanted to be presented an opportunity to give the servants in this household a show of her power. Now that an opportunity was right in front of her, there was no way she¡¯d let it slip by her.


    Third Old Mistress Shi smiled tacitly and sighed in her heart: In the end, only she, who had followed us all these years, would put her masters above all else!


    ¡°Nanny Gui, hurry up, I¡¯m hungry!¡± Shi Yulin pouted and said.


    Hearing Shi Yulin, Nanny Gui was even more happy and she patted her chest while promising, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Fourth Missy, this old servant will be back very soon! How about noodles in chicken soup, what do Old Master and Old Mistress think?¡±


    ¡°Just make it quick, we¡¯ll have whatever there is! Don¡¯t have to make it too troublesome!¡± Third Old Master Shi said indifferently.


    Third Old Mistress Shi nced at him once but merely instructed Nanny Gui, ¡°Hurry and go!¡±


    Nanny Gui nodded. After putting on a cloak, she held onto herntern before stepping out of Ji Cui Tower¡¯s courtyard.


    Once she was out, a sudden realization hit her head. Her memory was no longer what it used to be due to age, and after many years had passed, theyout of the household had changed slightly. On top of all that, it was already night; she could no longer tell where the kitchen was!


    As an experienced and senior old servant, she would definitely not do something as foolish as turning back to ask her masters ¡ª¡ª wouldn¡¯t that just be bringing a scolding upon herself!


    After giving some thought, she decided to follow her memory and venture about slowly. If she were to meet someone, then she would just have to ask for directions and be on her way.


    Nanny Gui pulled her cloak tighter around herself and affirmed the n to herself as she headed north, following a pavement.


    Nanny Gui had to admit that she was indeed old now! Either that, or theyout of the household had changed a lot. After going around in circles, the scenery on both sides seemed somewhat simr but not the same. Even after thirty minutes of walking, not only had she not caught a glimpse of the kitchen but also had no idea where it was!


    The masters were all hungry and waiting to eat! Nanny Gui began to panic and became more frantic. When a person¡¯s luck was bad, even drinking cold water would make her ill. While on the way, Nanny Gui slipped and fell heavily onto the ground. It was so painful that tears almost escaped from her eyes.


    ¡°This crazy weather! This is so different from Sichuan!¡± Nanny Guiined as she pulled herself up and patted away the dirt before rubbing her sore bottom. But what use wasining? She still had to find the kitchen.


    ¡°This ghastly household! How can there not be a single servant around in such a huge household!¡± Nanny Gui panicked. However, it did not hit her that in such a cold weather, the servants would would be warming themselves indoors! Who would leave thefort of their house just to freeze outside?


    Lifting her head, there was a light moving behind the bushes in front of her. Without any care for her leg, she frantically hurried across almost as if she had found her saving grace.


    ¡°Girl, is there a quicker path to the kitchen from here? The sky is getting dark and this old servant cannot see clearly!¡± Nanny Gui finally caught up to the two maidservants and asked with a small smile.


    One of them pointed towards a direction and smiled, ¡°Just walk over to that corner from here and make a turn. Follow that corridor and turn to your left at the two big melon trees. Walk a little more ahead and you will be able to spot the kitchen!¡±


    ¡°Ah! Many thanks to you two! Are you on an errand even on such ate hour?¡± Nanny Gui asked.


    ¡°Yes, we are bringing some things to Eldest Missy! Please go ahead of us!¡± The two answered and left after a short while.


    Nanny Gui let out a sigh of relief as she followed the directions given by the maidservant. Sure enough, Nanny Gui saw that the path was soon familiar to her and she became ted. She had finally found the kitchen!


    ¡°Oh, there¡¯s still the two of you here! Quickly, help my Old Master, Mistress and Missies to cook a bowl of noodles!¡± Nanny Gui pushed open the door and saw two servants still inside the kitchen. She smiled as she entered and said out loud.


    At this moment, the kitchen was already closed. Those who went home would already be home by now. Only two servants stayed behind today to tidy up the kitchen. They were just about finished cleaning up when an uninvited guest pushed open the doors!


    The two servants looked at each other once. They were slightly displeased. One of them, who wore ret-red clothes, forced a smile and asked, ¡°This nanny looks unfamiliar. Which master sent you out on an errand?¡±


    Nanny Gui was already feeling anxious while on the way to the kitchen. With the slip she had on her way, as well as the fear of receiving a scolding for making her masters wait, her heart was not at ease. Hearing those words now made her even more upset. She smiled and said, ¡°This auntie here looks very smart, so why are you speaking so foolishly! Don¡¯t you know the Shi family¡¯s Third Old Master and Third Old Mistress have returned to the household? Did that note to you if you knew I was an unfamiliar face?¡±


    ¡°Hehe! We are dumb people, of course we wouldn¡¯t think of that! We aren¡¯t as smart as you!¡± That person replied inly with her lips pursed, ¡°There are still some charcoal near the stove. The noodles, vegetables, ham and meat are all in the cab; make it yourself!¡±


    Nanny Gui¡¯s expression changed, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Nanny, please don¡¯t be angry!¡± The other servant wearing a deep green clothes said with a smile, ¡°We¡¯re already generous enough to let you have the entire kitchen for yourself, yet you¡¯re still unhappy! The kitchen is a sacred ce! If it were someone else, we would¡¯ve chased that person out! Nanny, if you want to use the kitchen, hurry and use it. We still have to return home! In this cold weather, you can¡¯t have us stay here for too long, right? We¡¯re already tired enough after a long day of work!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± The servant in ret-red clothes grunted and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t we already send someone to deliver the dishes to Third Old Master and Third Old Mistress? Is the food not to their liking? Oh, and why didn¡¯t they send the tes and meal boxes back to us? This is just great, they didn¡¯t send those back but want more to eat!¡±


    ¡°We are also very busy ourselves; we don¡¯t only have your family¡¯s masters to serve!¡± The servant in deep green clothes said again, ¡°Other families send their servants to take their food, only your family had to have our people deliver the dishes personally. And here you are, not showing any appreciation!¡±


    ¡°Right, aren¡¯t you just looking for a bone in an egg? You only followed Third Old Master outside for a few years and you¡¯re acting allcent now!¡±


    ¡°Hmph! If the outside really was that good, then whye back!¡±


    ¡°Quiet!¡± Nanny Gui was extremely furious and gave a cold smile, ¡°Can a servant talk like that about what the masters do? I think the two of you are sick of living!¡±


    The two of them were not going down without a fight, and asked Nanny Gui together, ¡°Which ear of yours heard us criticising the masters? You were the one who was picking on things and now you are putting the me on us! Oh, I think we¡¯ve already done everything we had to, what else do you want? You are the one being unreasonable for picking on us! Even if Young Mistress knew about this, the fact won¡¯t change!¡±


    ¡°Fine! Then let¡¯s go to Young Mistress now! I want to hear what she will say!¡±, Nanny Gui was so infuriated that she felt a wave of dizziness


    ¡°You are so insensitive!¡± the servant in the ret-red clothes said again, ¡°Do you think our Young Mistress is very free, and has to revolve around your Third family? Why don¡¯t you look at what time it is now? How dare you still want to trouble Young Mistress at such an hour!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Nanny, your temper is very bad! For just a few sentences, you want toin about us? We aren¡¯t like the servants who sweep the courtyard. The kitchen can¡¯t do without us in the year end!¡±


    ¡°Exactly, it¡¯s about to be a new year soon, yet there¡¯s still someone with such a bad temper, shouting so loudly and making a big fuss! Do you want all of us servants to be chased out of the household in order to satisfy yourselves?¡±


    ¡°Eh, enough, enough, let¡¯s not talk about this anymore! Who are we, how can wepare ourselves with her! Be careful, if a certain someone were toin about us, we¡¯ll only be the ones out of luck!¡±


    Nanny Gui trembled with anger, but she was at a loss of words. After restraining and getting ahold of herself, she grunted, ¡°I won¡¯t speak anymore nonsense that mustn¡¯t be heard by the masters with the both of you anymore. Quickly get to cooking so that I can bring it back for my masters! The dishes you sent were cold and were not fit for my masters to eat. They¡¯re still waiting on an empty stomach for me to return! So hurry and get it done! Hmph, if you don¡¯t do it, that¡¯s fine too, but don¡¯t me me for finding Young Mistress! I don¡¯t believe that the masters can¡¯t have their noodles if they don¡¯t want to have rice!¡±


    The two looked at each other incredulously, and red at Nanny Gui resentfully. One grumbled as she started the fire, while the other went to prepare the pot.


    ¡°Make a bowl of noodles in chicken soup, hurry up! If Third Old Master and Third Old Mistress bes unhappy, dealing with two servants shouldn¡¯t be a big deal! Your Young Mistress can¡¯t say anything too!¡± Seeing that they were finally getting to work, Nanny Gui felt very happy and wanted to deal a fatal blow onto their arrogance which made her say so purposefully.


    The servant in ret-red clothes immediately put aside the firewood in her hands, and said unhappily, ¡°How will there be any chicken soup left? At this hour, how do you expect us to make a bowl of noodles in chicken soup for you!¡±


    Nanny Gui snorted, ¡°I don¡¯t care, that¡¯s your business!¡±


    The servant in ret-red clothes was so angry that she smiled coldly, ¡°Fine then! You¡¯ll have to wait here! We still have to boil the water and kill a chicken to make your soup!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Nanny Gui was red with anger.

 Chapter 169 - Never Checked My Fortune Calendar

    <strong>Chapter 169: Never Checked My Fortune Calendar</strong>


    Aiya both of you,¡± the servant in deep green clothes was getting a little impatient to go home and said, ¡°Just back down a little! The earlier we finish, the sooner we can knock off! Really! This nanny here, there is really no chicken soup left. We¡¯ll just use whatever¡¯s left: ham, scallop, dried shrimps, eggs, winter bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and some green vegetables to cook a bowl, okay?


    ¡°Fine! So be it!¡± Since the servant in deep green clothes yielded, Nanny Gui stopped insisting on making a fuss and said, ¡°Make a bowl for four: Third Old Master, Third Old Mistress, as well as Second and Fourth missies! They must be very hungry now, please make a little more!¡±


    ¡°Eh, got it! One pot will be just enough!¡± The servant in deep green clothes started to wash and cut the vegetables nimbly while the servant in ret-red clothes merely grumbled.


    An aroma slowly rose from the steaming hot pot, and the noodles were ready very quickly. Having a whiff of the aroma, Nanny Gui could not help but feel hungry herself. However, she had to hold herself back any gracelessness.


    The servant in deep green clothes quicklydled the noodles into a huge bowl and ced it into a meal box. Inside the meal box, hot water was added inside, before she informed Nanny Gui, ¡°It¡¯s done!¡±


    Nanny Gui got up and brushed her clothes before leaving with the meal box.


    As soon as her feet left the kitchen, the other two left as well, almost as if they were afraid that she woulde back to find them again. They hurriedly locked the kitchen and hastily left in different directions.


    ¡°Just what are they!¡± Nanny Gui mumbled.


    But the truth was that those two servants were foresighted to have run off quickly. As the cold wind blew, Nanny Gui subconsciously closed her eyes. Her footnded wrongly and she slipped and fell. The meal box fell out of her hands andnded sideways heavily.


    Nanny Gui was stupefied, and her mouth gaped as she remained stationary like a statue.


    ¡°Why am I so unlucky today! If I had known earlier, I wouldn¡¯t have taken up this rotten task!¡± Nanny Gui crawled over to the meal box while sighing endlessly. Harbouring herst hope, she opened the meal box but was dismayed.


    The noodles were scattered all over inside the meal box, how can it still be eaten!


    ¡°What to do! What to do!¡± Nanny Gui was so anxious that she almost wanted to find a piece of rope to hang herself! This was just great, not only was she taking so long to get food, she wasn¡¯t even able to return with any food! It so happened that the kitchen was locked now, there was no longer a way for her to return to the kitchen and cook another bowl of noodles even if she wanted to!


    The saying that a person would be smarter when pressured to a corner was true after all. Being under huge pressure, Nanny Gui suddenly thought of Sang Wan and she quickly got up to search for Ning Garden.


    Right now, Sang Wan and Shi Fengu were cuddling and being intimate with each other. They were just like newlyweds, their rtionship in harmony, cuddling together on a cozy night felt even sweeter than honey.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress!¡± A voice from behind the doors, shattered the lovely atmosphere inside the chamber.


    Shi Fengju was embracing his wife and whispering lovingly into her ear. Upon hearing the voice from outside, he creased his eyebrows. Not letting Sang Wan leave his embrace he hugged her tightly and asked unhappily, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Behind the door, Liu Ya felt annoyed and thought that her Young Master had a very bad temper today. He seemed to find every one of them a nuisance, and always had a look of animosity towards them.


    What did they do to make him angry?


    ¡°It is Nanny Gui from the third family who wishes to see Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya hurriedly answered.


    ¡°Nanny Gui?¡± Sang Wan quickly got out of Shi Fengju¡¯s embrace and arranged her clothing. Raising her hand to arrange her hair, she smiled and asked, ¡°For Nanny Gui to see me at this hour, it must be something urgent! Do I look messy?


    ¡°Definitely not! You¡¯re fine!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and arranged her loose hair. Both of them looked at each other and smiled.


    ¡°Let here in. There¡¯s no need to go out to see her; she¡¯s not an outsider anyway!¡± Shi Fengju said as he led Sang Wan to sit together at the table before raising his voice to instruct Liu Ya to let Nanny Gui in.


    ¡°Nanny, you¡¯re here, have a seat! Is something the matter at Third Aunt¡¯s side?¡± When Nanny Gui entered, Sang Wan asked with a smile.


    ¡°This old servant shall politely refuse,¡± After the greeting, Nanny Gui smiled and said, ¡°There is something that needs Young Mistress¡¯s help! Our Old Mistress forgot about the hour when she was unpacking; by the time the third family wanted to eat, the food was already cold! I suppose Young Mistress has a small kitchen here? Can I trouble you to make a bowl of noodles? Our Old Master, Old Mistress, and two Missies have not eaten at all!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯d have thought!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly smiled and said, ¡°Winter is like this, the dishes turns cold very quickly! Wait awhile, I¡¯ll have someone make it!¡± She called for Liu Ya and instructed her to inform the small kitchen personally.


    Nanny Gui was ted, and gave her thanks profusely. Smiling, she said, ¡°Then this old servant shall not bother Young Master and Young Mistress any longer. This old servant will wait at the kitchen!¡±


    ¡°Certainly! Nanny, take care!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded.


    ¡°Really, there is everything in the house, what¡¯s the rush for Third Aunt to unpack all her things!¡± Shi Fengjuughed.


    However, Sang Wan could understand her for doing so and said, ¡°They finally have a house for themselves atst. Of course she would be anxious to decorate it! You men will understand this!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°Really? But I¡¯ve never seen you decorate our house at all.¡± He could not help but look around. It was true, other than the big red ¡®Ï²¡¯ character and the bright red silks that were taken down, everything else was the same as when they got married. Nothing was moved at all.


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes at him and remained silent. She thought to herself: I¡¯d rather store myself in order not to leave any trace, as if I¡¯d dare to touch your things that¡¯re in this house? If you purposely used that to find trouble for me, then I¡¯d be the one who deserved it!


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju saw how there was some bitterness in her eyes and thought about their rtionship in the past as well. He could not help but pull her into his embrace before lowering his head to kiss her cheeks repeatedly. He put his face against hers and smiled, ¡°You can decorate this house in any way you like. Why don¡¯t we go to the storehouse tomorrow and have a look? And maybe pick a few items that you like? Oh, the storehouse behind my study room also has quite a few treasures too, I will bring you there tomorrow to have a look!¡±


    Seeing the way he behaved, Sang Wan giggled but felt bad herself and she took the initiative to inch closer to him, ¡°Actually, our house is pretty nice the way it is. I like it, really! There¡¯s no need to move the things here and there! What¡¯s more, there are still many things to do during this year-end period, what¡¯s the point of moving them now!¡±


    Shi Fengju heard her said ¡°Our¡± and a smile spread across his face, ¡°Alright then, I will leave it up to you! From today onwards, you will be in-charge of everything in this house, you can do anything you please!¡±


    His words sounded more and more untrustworthy; Sang Wan simply did not put his words to heart and merely smiled without speaking.


    After awhile, Liu Ya announced that the noodles were already cooked and taken by Nanny Gui.


    ¡°It¡¯s no longer early anymore, let¡¯s wash up and sleep!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said. His smile seemed to be hinting at something else and Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed as she avoided his gaze.


    ¡°This servant will have hot water prepared for Young mistress to bathe in right now!¡± Liu Ya quickly said.


    Sang Wan nodded before asking, ¡°Did Nanny Gui leave by herself or did you instruct someone to send her back?¡±


    Liu Ya smiled and said, ¡°This Nanny Gui, really. At first, this servant asked two servants to send her back, but she refused itpletely. This servant wasn¡¯t able to change her mind and left it at that!¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but crease her brows and said, ¡°How could you leave it at that? Even having someone to hold thentern for her is good enough. It¡¯s so dark and cold, how can we allow her to return all by herself?¡±


    Liu Ya smiled helplessly, ¡°I agree too! But Nanny Gui was persistent and this servant couldn¡¯t simply force it upon her!¡±


    ¡°Since she was persistent about it, then you shouldn¡¯t be thinking too much about it!¡± Shi Fengju patted her shoulder lightly before instructing Liu Ya to get the hot water prepared.


    Liu Ya took a glimpse at her young master who could not keep his hands off her young mistress, and the curiosity which she had suppressed for the entire day became restless again. After epting the task, she could not wait to ask her young mistress when helping her wash.


    After receiving a warm wee and respect in Ning Garden, Nanny Gui¡¯s mood lightened significantly. It was not that she did not want anyone to send her back, but she was clear that she would definitely receive a scolding when she returned, and did not want outsiders to see. As such, she would rather return on her own.


    This way back was mostly through the long corridors so slipping and falling was almost impossible. Nanny Gui walked briskly, and as she walked, she thought in her heart how she should exin to her old mistress and not get on the wrong side of her!


    All of a sudden, a servant darted out from around the corner. That servant was not looking ahead and knocked into Nanny Gui heavily.


    Nanny Gui cried out in pain and almost broke her back from the sudden jerk. She fell onto the ground and the meal box was once again annihted.


    ¡°Which family send you out on an errand? Stand there! How can you walk without looking ahead of you!¡± Nanny Gui held her waist and sat on the ground as she shouted at the servant. The night was too dark so not only the face and appearance, even the servant¡¯s height and size was indistinguishable!


    The servant wasn¡¯t foolish. There was no way she¡¯d stand still and be caught. Instead, she was like the wind, disappearing in an instant!


    ¡°Aiyo! That wretched servant, whoever that is! Tomorrow, this old servant will find out who you are and teach you a lesson!¡± A fitful pain came from Nanny Gui¡¯s waist, and she exhaled deeply while clenching her teeth as she struggled to get up.


    ¡°Ah! Nanny Gui!¡± Only to see Ying Xia bringing along a young maidservant carrying antern. Seeing Nanny Gui, Ying Xia hurriedly went over to her and asked anxiously, ¡°What took you so long? Old Mistress and the two missies are waiting anxiously! Fourth Missy kept whining about how hungry she was! Eh, where are the noodles? Didn¡¯t you go to the kitchen?


    ¡°Gone! Just look at this!¡± Nanny Gui¡¯s heart was extremely sullen and she told her story, ¡°Why am I so unlucky! Just what¡¯s with me, maybe I really I didn¡¯t check my fortune calendar before heading out! Tonight was such a mess!¡±


    ¡°How could this have happened!¡± Ying Xia was stunned as she looked at the meal box that was on the ground. She sighed and said, ¡°Forget it, I will help you back first! You¡¯ll have to exin to Old Master and Old Mistress then see what¡¯s to be done!¡±


    Nanny Gui thought to herself that she did take too long. If she did not return to give an exnation, and continue to make Old Master and Old Mistress wait, Old Mistress would definitely re up. Not just Old Mistress, even she herself wanted to re up!


    Ying Xia held onto Nanny Gui, while the other servant carried the meal box andntern. The trio returned to Ji Cui Tower together. In the dark, a ck shadow darted silently behind their back. It was the servant who bumped into Nanny Gui just now¡ª¡ª Lan Xiang.


    Lan Xiang¡¯s lips curled into a smile that was full of mockery as she turned to return to Peony Park.


    ¡°Just what is this!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi asked sternly with a solemn expression. She saw Nanny Gui leave all fine and well, but only to return with a twisted waist and no food.

 Chapter 170 - Third Old Mistress Shi’s Fury

    <strong>Chapter 170: Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s Fury</strong>


    Shi Yulin was extremely disappointed and pouted her petite lips. She was about to wail when Shi Yuzhen quickly pulled her aside and coaxed her.


    ¡°Old Mistress, this old servant is useless!¡± All of Nanny Gui¡¯s grievances finally found an outlet. She embellished her story and said, ¡°When this old servant arrived at the kitchen, almost everyone had left and only two kitchen aunties remained to tidy the ce up. The two of them were in a hurry to go home, and said that they had already sent dinner to us, so they insisted on not cooking another one for this old servant. This old servant saw that it was not easy for them, after all, who doesn¡¯t want to return home on such a cold day like this? So I said no more, and went to Ning Garden to find Young Master and Young Mistress since Ning Garden has a small kitchen attached. I was sure that Young Mistress will not refuse to help!¡±


    ¡°Then what happened? Did Young Master and Young Mistress say anything?¡± Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s face was already as cold as ice.


    ¡°Old Mistress, calm down a little! The kitchen wasn¡¯t wrong. After all, we were the ones who had missed the hour for dinner. We can¡¯t me them for being unwilling. Nanny Gui is right, who wouldn¡¯t want to hurry back in this weather!¡± Third Old Master Shi sighed softly as he consoled at a side.


    Shi Third Old Mistress said coldly, ¡°Lord, I know you mean to tell me that the household has to be harmonious in order for it to prosper! But you see, even when you don¡¯t want to be meddlesome, just look at how others are treating us right now! Heng, this is fresh! The masters still have to think for the servants and follow their wishes? It¡¯s only one bowl of noodles, how dare they refuse to make it! Tomorrow, I will speak with Young Mistress! Nanny Gui, carry on!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress, actually the kitchen wasn¡¯t wrong too, they were really rushing home because of something urgent. That was why they refused. Their attitude was pretty good, and they were the ones who suggested that this old servant go to Ning Garden to find Young Mistress! Please don¡¯t be angry, please don¡¯t me them!¡± As if Nanny Gui would dare to allow a confrontation between Third Old Mistress Shi and the staff from the kitchen. If that happens, the paper would no longer be able to wrap the fire!


    She sighed in chagrin, ¡°Also, Young Mistress was really nice, after hearing this old servant¡¯s words, she immediately had her kitchen staff make the bowl of noodles! Just that, just that this old servant is useless! As I was walking along a long corridor on the way back, someone identally knocked into me. Not only did the meal box fall out of my hands, I also slipped and fell myself! This old servant is really useless!¡±


    Shi Third Old Mistress held her anger in and asked, ¡°And who was the person who knocked into you? Who was it?¡±


    ¡°This old servant... isn¡¯t sure!¡± Nanny Gui said in embarrassment, ¡°The sky was too dark! What¡¯s more, this old servant was in a hurry to return and wasn¡¯t paying attention. That person knocked into me all of a sudden, so this old servant... this old servant doesn¡¯t know who that person was...¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi became even more infuriated, and she said angrily, ¡°So, this ends up with no one responsible? You didn¡¯t call out to her?!¡±


    When speaking about this, Nanny Gui was also feeling angry, resentful and wronged, and said immediately, ¡°Why would I not? But the more I called out to her, the faster she ran with no sign of stopping at all? If not for having my waist twisted, I would definitely have given chase and caught her!¡± Nanny Gui¡¯s eyes darkened before saying guiltily, ¡°This old servant is fine, but it¡¯s unfortunate that the noodles were ruined, and Old Master, Old Mistress, and the two missies are still hungry right now!¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be med for this!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi went straight to Third Old Master Shi, ¡°Lord, hear that? I won¡¯t believe a word you say if you tell me that was all just a coincidence! There is obviously someoneing for us! Heng! I will go and find Young Mistress right now!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush to conclusions when you don¡¯t really know what happened!¡± Third Old Master Shi coaxed and said, ¡°I think this is all just an ident! Enough, enough, Nanny Gui, you may head down to rest now. See if there is any ointment for your injury and apply them. We can talk again tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°You are still siding with them!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi stood up all of a sudden and said unhappily, ¡°No! I have to go and question Young Mistress right now! I have to ask her what she meant by all this! It¡¯s already thiste, why couldn¡¯t she have sent a maidservant to apany Nanny Gui back? Just this alone, we can already tell that she has ill intentions!¡±


    Third Old Master Shi was suddenly out of words. From how Third Old Mistress Shi put it, she wasn¡¯t entirely wrong. Niece-inw was indeed a little careless! But, deciding that it was done on purpose just because of that seemed somewhat unfair!


    ¡°Aiya, Niece-inw is still young, it hasn¡¯t been more than a year since she married into the household, it¡¯s possible that she sometimes did not think things through thoroughly. You shouldn¡¯t be so hard on the youngsters! Looking at it in another way, why didn¡¯t Nanny Gui bring along someone else when she went out?¡± Third Old Master Shi consoled and said, ¡°Alright, alright, not eating for a meal will not starve us to death, let¡¯s go back and sleep. If there is anything else, we¡¯ll discuss tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Father! Mother! I¡¯m hungry, I don¡¯t want to sleep! I can¡¯t sleep with a hungry stomach!¡± Shi Yulin panicked when she heard what her father said.


    ¡°All because this old servant is useless! It¡¯s all old servant¡¯s fault!¡± Nanny Gui felt extremely remorseful. If she had known that such a thing would happen, she would not have refused Liu Ya¡¯s assistance! If there were any confrontations tomorrow, won¡¯t it just be disadvantageous for her? Nanny Gui quickly put the me on herself and said, ¡°Actually Young Mistress¡¯ servant did want to arrange someone to send me back, but I didn¡¯t want to trouble them. Third Old Mistress, please don¡¯t me Young Mistress...¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi said coldly, ¡°If she really was thoughtful, and respected us as her elders, even if you refused her, she would still have insisted. She quickly conceded after you refused. Surely we can tell that she didn¡¯t have the heart to do it anyway!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi creased her brows and nced at her daughter who was crying from hunger and could not help but feel her heart ache. Her face sunk and she said, ¡°Dont block me! I will go and find her now!¡± She called out to Ying Xia and a few other servants and was about to head out.


    ¡°Stand right there!¡± Third Old Master Shi became rmed and pulled her back. In a deep voice, he scolded sternly, ¡°Look at the time now, why are you still making such a ruckus!¡±


    ¡°You are the one that¡¯s being unreasonable at this hour!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi said without backing down, ¡°Let go of your hand!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you!¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡±


    Shi Yuzhen and Shi Yulin were scared stiff as they watched their parents quarrel. For a short while, Shi Yulinpletely forgot about her hunger, and tears hung on her eyshes as she stared at them nkly before subconsciously sneaking into her sister¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°Old Master and Old Mistress, Miss Gu is here!¡± Suddenly, a servant announced and the quarrel stopped temporarily.


    ¡°Miss Gu? Fangzi!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi was stunned, ¡°Why is she here!¡±


    ¡°Stop making a scene!¡±Third Old Master Shi sighed in relief and said, ¡°A visitor is a guest. She must¡¯vee with good intentions! Invite her in, quickly!¡±


    Right on time! Third Old Master Shi secretly wiped off the sweat on his forehead. He knew that his wife had always ced arge importance on presentation, and would naturally stop making a fuss when there was a guest.


    ¡°Yes, Old Master!¡± The young maidservant quickly epted, and went out to invite Gu Fangzi and Lan Xiang in.


    ¡°Third Uncle, Third Aunt!¡± Gu Fangzi took off her emerald-green cloak, and was wearing a white rice-colored fur coat. She went forward and greeted Third Old Master Shi and his wife. After the greeting, she smiled and nodded to Shi Yuzhen and Shi Yulin and said, ¡°Second Sister, Fourth Sister!¡±


    ¡°Fangzi, have a seat!¡± Sure enough, Third Old Mistress Shi suppressed her rage, smiled politely at Gu Fangzi and said, ¡°Is anything the matter at such an hour?¡±


    Gu Fangzi gave her thanks and sat before smiling, ¡°Nothing, really! I heard that Third Uncle and Third Aunt were moving house today, so I came specially to pay a visit!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, you are too kind! You still remember us!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi suddenly felt a tinge of sadness. Her Eldest Sister-inw and Second Sister-inw gave them no regard, or even sent anyone to check on them! In the end, it was Gu Fangzi who thought of them!


    ¡°Third Aunt, you¡¯re too polite, this is what I ought to do!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled meekly and said, ¡°I don¡¯t have any expensive gifts for Third Uncle and Third Aunt. I brought with me a little of the green bean cake and some osmanthus flower sweets with nuts that I made. Please give them a try!¡± After she finished, she ordered Lan Xiang to take them out before smiling awkwardly, ¡°They are all inexpensive things, but I hope I won¡¯t be mocked for it!¡±


    ¡°I want to eat, I want to eat! Oh, oh! There is finally something to eat now!¡± Hearing that there was food, the eyes on Shi Yulin¡¯s small face were full of excitement. She sprinted forward while pping with joy, and not even Shi Yuzhen could pull her back in time.


    ¡°Xiao Lin!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s expression changed a little as she pulled her daughter, whose hands were reaching out to take the cake, and chided her, ¡°Xiao Lin!¡±


    Shi Yulin could sniff the faint aromaing from the green bean cake and the osmanthus sweets. Even though it was within her reach, she could not reach out for it and she became unhappy. She sobbed, ¡°Mother is bad, Mother is bad for not letting me eat the green bean cake! I¡¯m really hungry! I¡¯m really, really hungry!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi was feeling both angry and sorry for her daughter. For a moment, she was out of words.


    ¡°Younger Sister, be a good girl!¡± Shi Yuzhen smiled awkwardly at Gu Fangzi and pulled Shi Yulin¡¯s hands to bring her aside.


    ¡°No!¡± Shi Yulin did not want to leave at all, and started to wail loudly.


    ¡°What happened to Fourth Sister!¡± Gu Fangzi was concerned. She hugged Shi Yulin and used her handkerchief to wipe her tears gently before giving her a piece of the cake. She said in a soft voice, ¡°Here, I¡¯ll give you this. Be a good girl, stop crying!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled back at Third Old Mistress Shi and said, ¡°I am not an outsider, I¡¯m happy if Fourth Cousin likes it. Third Aunt, please don¡¯t be angry at her!¡±


    Shi Yulin became obedient in her embrace, and started eating the green bean cake. After finishing a small piece, she opened her chubby hands and mumbled, ¡°I want more!¡±


    ¡°Eat slowly, careful not to choke!¡± Gu Fangziughed as she patted Shi Yulin¡¯s back softly before giving her another piece. After taking a glimpse at Third Old Mistress Shi and Shi Yuzhen, she smiled, ¡°I made these myself, they¡¯re quite tasty. Third Aunt and Second Sister, please have some too!¡±


    Shi Yuzhen was also feeling ravenous, but as she was a little older, she did not disy the same candidness as Shi Yulin. Hearing Gu Fangzi, she could not help but look at her mother. The craving and hope in her eyes could not be more obvious.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s your cousin¡¯s good intentions, have some then!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sighed softly.


    ¡°Yes. Father and Mother, have some too!¡± Shi Yuzhen put her parents first. Third Old Master Shi did not like sweet food, so he shook his head with a smile. Third Old Mistress Shi took a piece to eat first before Shi Yuzhen did so too.


    ¡°Oh, right,¡± Gu Fangzi blinked before inquiring with a smile, ¡°Just now, Fourth Sister said she was hungry... Did you not have dinner tonight?¡±

 Chapter 171 - Gu Fangzi Is Too Good Of A Person

    <h4>Chapter 171: Gu Fangzi Is Too Good Of A Person</h4>


    Third Old Mistress Shi did not want to say anything at first but now that someone had finally disyed concern for her, who had suffered an entire night of grievances, was there any way for her to hold herself back? She sighed and said, ¡°Exactly! We were busy unpacking untilte at night, and did not realise that it was past dinner time. The dishes sent by the kitchen had turned cold, so I sent Nanny Gui to make us a bowl of noodles! Who knew that a rude servant would run into her while she was on her way back. The noodles were scattered and Nanny Gui ended up twisting her lower back! I¡¯m not afraid of my words beingughed at, but our Xiao Lin* had never gone through such hardships; there¡¯s no way she wouldn¡¯t start throwing a tantrum!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and sighed again, ¡°Luckily, you came with these cakes. Otherwise, I really wouldn¡¯t know what to do with that child!¡±


    (*TLN: More intimate way of calling Shi Yulin)


    ¡°Oh, so that¡¯s the reason!¡± Upon realization, Gu Fangzi quickly returned a smile, ¡°It really is such a coincidence! But I¡¯m no outsider, why would Iugh at your words? Not just a growing child like Fourth Sister, even adults will find it difficult to bear with the hunger. If you don¡¯t mind, I have a small kitchen at my ce. I¡¯ll have Lan Xiang cook and return with a bowl of noodles! However, I only have vegetables there!¡±


    ¡°Aiya, how can I trouble you any further! Don¡¯t worry, these desserts are enough, really!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi refused with a smile


    ¡°Third Aunt, please don¡¯t see me as an outsider,¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and said, ¡°The fire in my small kitchen is readily avable; it¡¯ll be done very quickly! It¡¯s no trouble at all! How can a few of these desserts suppress your hunger? Even drinking a mouthful of hot soup will be much better! Anyway, Third Uncle doesn¡¯t eat sweet food, I¡¯m sure he¡¯s hungry!¡±


    ¡°This¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Haha, Fangzi, then we¡¯ll have to trouble you this time! I won¡¯t be polite then, there¡¯s no need to be too particr, just any bowl of noodles will do! Speaking of which, I really am hungry!¡± Third Old Master Shi smiled at a side.


    Gu Fangzi was delighted and smiled, ¡°My thanks to Third Uncle for not seeing me as an outsider!¡± After that, she ordered Lan Xiang to go back and cook a bowl of noodles.


    Lan Xiang agreed and left hurriedly.


    ¡°I¡¯m really grateful towards you!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi thanked Gu Fangzi, which Gu Fangzi epted humbly.


    Now that they were finally about to eat dinner, Third Old Mistress Shi did not allow Shi Yulin to eat too many of the desserts and asked Ying Xia to keep them away. Shi Yulin heard that they were going to have noodles and remained well-behaved.


    Not long after, Lan Xiang returned with a meal box. This time, nothing went wrong.


    A porcin bowl full of piping hot noodles was ced on the table. The aroma filled the air and the third family could not help but salivate: Not eating a meal had really made them famished!


    Ying Xia went forward hurriedly, and together with Lan Xiang, they divided the noodles into smaller porcin bowls. Even though it was a bowl of vegetable noodles, it was cooked in sesame oil and sauce together with fresh bamboo, mushroom, ck fungus, and green vegetables. Together with it were a few tes of crunchy dried carrots, chopped turnips cooked in sesame oil, sour and spicy kelp, and other side dishes. Altogether, it was a hearty meal.


    The moment the piping hot noodles and soup went down their mouths, it warmed and filled their stomachs, making them feel entirely happy.


    ¡°Fangzi, I¡¯m really grateful towards you tonight! See here, we ended up still troubling you!¡± When Gu Fangzi bade farewell, Third Old Mistress Shi and her daughters sent her off personally until the gate. Third Old Mistress Shi then held Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand and thanked her profusely.


    ¡°Third Aunt, listen to what you are saying! As a junior, I should show filial respect to my seniors. This small matter is not worth mentioning or remembering, so if you continue to, I¡¯d feel embarrassed!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled became even more gentle and humble.


    ¡°Hehe, good, good! Then Third Aunt will not speak of it anymore!¡± Third Old Mistress Shiughed wholeheartedly, and said gently, ¡°It¡¯s dark at night and the roads might be slippery, so please be careful on your way!¡±


    ¡°En, ¡° Gu Fangzi smiled and said, ¡°I will be careful. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re all tired. Don¡¯t worry and go back in to rest! I will pay a formal visit again another day.¡±


    ¡°What formal visit, juste whenever you¡¯re free. We can chat to pass the time!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and said.


    Gu Fangziughed and said, ¡°Okay, Fangzi would love to!¡± After she finished, she smiled and left with Lan Xiang.


    Looking at them as they walked further and further, Third Old Mistress Shi could not help but sigh softly to herself: What a wonderful young girl. In the future, I wonder who is blessed to have her!


    Having only returned to the household not too long ago, they had no idea that Gu Fangzi and Shi Fengju were childhood sweethearts, and knew nothing about the fact that Gu Fangzi had already been married into the Shi Household.


    Those at Ning Garden were oblivious to the chaos and turn of events in Ji Cui Tower. Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes were only feasting on the sight of the wife who he had longed for. After Nanny Gui left, he kept urging Sang Wan to take a bath. Of course, the two knew what was toe after.


    Sang Wan quietly red at him bashfully, but Shi Fengju was feeling so happy to the point he almost could not hold his happiness in. He wanted to pull her into his embrace and be intimate with her.


    The hot steam spiraled up from the bath. Flower nectar, soap, moisturiser, towel, and robe were all ready for use. Sang Wan took off her coat and hung it on the frame decorated with jade orchid and parrots. Seeing how Liu Ya was still fidgeting at a side, she smiled and asked, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you going out yet? What are you dawdling here for?¡±


    The Sang family was never particr and did not reach the level of needing someone to serve them when they took a bath. As such, Sang Wan never allowed anyone to watch while she took a bath.


    ¡°Oh...¡± Liu Ya pouted her small lips, and answered dully.


    ¡°What happened to you all of a sudden?¡± Sang Wan could not help butugh, ¡°Did someone bully you?¡± If it were before, Liu Ya¡¯s expression would have made Sang Wan distressed as she would believe that someone had bullied her servant. But now that Liu Ya was under the protection of Nanny Li, Sang Wan believed that there would not be anyone who were blind enough to bully her. Thus, Sang Wan was jesting.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya could no longer restrain herself and went closer to ask Sang Wan in a soft voice, ¡°That, erm, that ¡ª¡ª did you and Young Master¡ª¡ª?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face and neck immediately turned red, and she lowered her head guiltily to avoid Liu Ya¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya panicked and stammered, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you and Young Master were a fake couple? So howe¡ª¡ª?¡± She mumbled softly, ¡°No wonder I could not find that bed sheet at all...¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± San Wan took a few deep breaths to calm herself before looking straight at Liu Ya, ¡°Forget the words that I said in the past! Treat it as if I had never said them.¡±


    ¡°You and Young Master have already done it¡ª¡ª even if I don¡¯t want to, I¡¯ll still have to forget about it!¡± Liu Ya mumbled unhappily before smiling again, ¡°Actually, this servant also thinks that Young Master treats you better and better each day. In the future when you give birth to Young Master¡¯s son, he¡¯ll definitely treat Young Mistress even better! Seeing how you and Young Master are now, this servant feels more relieved! You may not know, but this servant has been worried to death thinking about our fate in the future! This is great, now I don¡¯t have to worry about that anymore! Hehe, oh right, there is still Second Young Master Sang. With him, nobody will dare to bully Young Mistress!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Sang Wan found it amusing, yet touched as well. She poked Liu Ya¡¯s forehead lightly andughed, ¡°So you were fidgeting and uneasy for the entire day, just because you wanted to ask me this?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Liu Ya nodded without hesitation, and exhaled, ¡°I almost suffocated from holding it in!¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but smile as she shook her head.


    Liu Ya smiled too, and her expression changed all of a sudden. She had a sullen look on her face as she asked miserably, ¡°Young Mistress, you and Young Master are true to each other now, but, but this servant doesn¡¯t want to!¡±


    ¡°What is it that you do not want?¡± Sang Wan asked inexpressibly.


    ¡°This servant doesn¡¯t want to be Young Master¡¯s concubine!¡± Liu Ya said, ¡°Young Mistress, you promised this servant, this servant is only loyal to Young Mistress and never had any ulterior motives towards Young Master!¡±


    Sang Wan almost forgot about that. After hearing Liu Ya, Sang Wan was touched. She held her hands and said gently, ¡°We have been together for so many years, don¡¯t you know what kind of person am I? Don¡¯t worry, I will never make you do something against your will.¡±


    ¡°Okay, with Young Mistress¡¯s words, this servant feels much more relieved!¡± Liu Yaughed happily and said, ¡°The water will turn cold soon. Young Mistress, quickly have a bath! I will be heading out now!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled. After she saw Liu Ya leave, she took off the rest of her clothes and went into the bathtub. The warm water surrounded her, and the air bubbles floated up the surface. She rested by the side of the bathtub and smiledfortably.


    After taking a bath, Sang Wan climbed onto her bed and covered herself with a nket before sitting against the headboard as she dozed off. Not long after, Shi Fengju was also done with taking a bath. He returned with a sweet scent as he pulled the nket over him to cover himself too. He then pulled her close to his chest and hugged her as he called out to her with a smile. He lowered his head and began kissing, traversing between her cheeks and necks longingly.


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t resist wrapping her hands around his neck and weing his affection. Her calm breathing soon became heavier, apanied with the asional soft moaning.


    ¡°Sang Wan, I really love you a lot!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze became more intense, and he stared at her with a burning passion. He kissed her luscious red lips deeply, and hugged her as they rolled on the bed and made out passionately. It was a night of pleasure as they were entangled together, enjoying themselves immensely.


    When they opened their eyes again, the sky was already bright. During winter, the bed was the best ce to cuddle. They continued to be in each other¡¯s embrace as they spoke for a long while before getting out of bed together.


    They were moreposed today. After all, the maidservants would not know what really happened between them, as well as the changes between them too. If they did not say it out themselves, no one would have dared to guess in that direction. They were the only ones that felt as if they were doing something ndestine the night before.


    ¡°Oh right, should we prepare two gifts for Third Uncle, Third Aunt, and our two sisters today? After all, they only moved in yesterday!¡± Sang Wan asked Shi Fengju during breakfast.


    Shi Fengju was suddenly at a loss of what to do andughed, ¡°Logically, there isn¡¯t any need to because this is Third Uncle and Third Aunt¡¯s home too. If we gave them a gift, it would mean we are regarding them as outsiders. But they just returned home, not giving them a gift will not seem reasonable too! It¡¯s better if you didn¡¯t mention it, but now that you have, I really don¡¯t know what to do too!¡±


    Sang Wanughed and said, ¡°So there are things that you don¡¯t know too! This is rare! How about we ask Mother and see what she says!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good too!¡¯ Shi Fengju smiled and said. They headed to Wang Shi¡¯s ce after they were done with breakfast.


    It so happened that Shi Yumei was looking for Shi Fengju and she pulled him away while they were on their way. Even though Shi Fengju was not too willing, he did not want to embarrass his sister and could only follow her. Sang Wan was then left to head to Wang Shi¡¯s ce alone to give her greeting.


    Who knew that Third Old Mistress Shi was at Wang Shi¡¯s ce speaking with Wang Shi.

 Chapter 172 - Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 172: Humiliation</h4>


    Sang Wan greeted Wang Shi and then Third Old Mistress Shi before sitting in front of them.


    Watching as Sang Wan sat down, Third Old Mistress Shi stood up with a smile and said to Wang Shi, ¡°I think you mother-inw and daughter-inw have things to talk about. Then Sister Wang, I will head back first and chat with you another day!¡±


    Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s merely just some mundane talk, there¡¯s nothing special about it, but if Third Sister has things to do then so be it! If you are free on another day,e and have a chat with me!¡±


    ¡°Will do, Sister Wang!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and nodded. When she passed Sang Wan, she stopped and raised her eyes to look at her. Her smile was polite yet distanced, ¡°Sang Wan, I have really troubled you so much in the past two days and made you busy. Our matters really aren¡¯t within your duty, so your third uncle and I feel really bad about it! Here¡¯s some silver for you.¡±


    After she finished, she pulled out two silver notes using her fingers before pressing them into Sang Wan¡¯s hand, ¡°Take it! Treat it as a token of gratitude from your third uncle and I for the hard work you put in for the past two days!¡±


    ¡°Third Aunt, what are you doing! I can¡¯t ept these! It is all within my duty! Third Aunt is being too polite!¡± In front of Wang Shi and so many servants, Sang Wan¡¯s face instantly turned red. A strong sense of shame rose within her and her eyes turned teary.


    Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s words and actions were obviously dealing a blow at Sang Wan¡¯s dignity in front of the servants and her mother-inw! Sang Wan could not help but feel aggrieved and disappointed. She did not know what she did for her third aunt to humiliate her publicly like this!


    ¡°Why not!¡± Seeing how Sang Wan was, Third Old Mistress Shiughed to herself as she had finally enacted her revenge. She forced the silver notes into Sang Wan¡¯s hand and smiled, ¡°The servants also had it difficult; use this to reward them then! We aren¡¯t your parents-inw, hehe, these tasks shouldn¡¯t have been assigned to you, but we are still very thankful to you regardless! Even blood-rted siblings don¡¯t owe any debt to one another, am I right? Oh right, I¡¯d like to request a temporary change for one of the rooms to be turned into a small kitchen. I don¡¯t know who I should inform, so I will have to trouble niece-inw again!¡±


    Sang Wan did not even dare to raise her head. Her face was as pale as wax paper and she was so ashamed that she wished she could find a hole in the ground to hide into.


    ¡°Third Aunt,¡± With great effort, Sang Wan made her voice sound as pleasant as possible. Moving her stiff lips slightly, she said, ¡°Third Aunt, you are too polite! Forgive Sang Wan for not epting this money... As for the small kitchen, Sang Wan will immediately have someone make the change for you, so please do not worry. Third Aunt, Sang Wan is young and ignorant, if there is anything that isn¡¯t done right, I¡¯d like to seek Third Aunt¡¯s forgiveness!¡±


    ¡°Niece-inw, what are you saying!¡± Third Old Mistress Shipletely ignored Sang Wan¡¯s appeal and the smile on her face turned even broader, ¡°Hehe, I am a person who does not like to take advantage of others. It is better to be clear of debt; everyone would be more at peace that way! Sang Wan, Third Aunt really doesn¡¯t have any other meaning! As for the small kitchen, there¡¯s really no need for you to be personally in-charge, really. Later on, I will have someone go to Ning Garden. You just have to inform the servant who to look for! It¡¯s not like I have never been in-charge of a household before, I¡¯m sure I can still handle something this trivial on my own! How can I keep troubling you for everything? Don¡¯t you agree? Alright, I won¡¯t say anymore. Enjoy yourselves, I¡¯ll be taking my leave first!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and she nced towards Wang Shi before giving a nod. With Ying Xia supporting her by her hand, she left gracefully without turning back.


    Sang Wan¡¯s body trembled slightly as her eyes turned red and hot tears fell onto her coat. She blinked away the tears in her eyes frantically before bowing to Wang Shi. With her head lowered and a forced smile, ¡°Mother, it is all Sang Wan¡¯s fault, Sang Wan did not handle this matter well...¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Wang Shi raised her hand to stop her. Her face darkened immediately as she stood up and walked towards another room, ¡°Youe with me. The rest of you don¡¯t follow us. You¡¯re all dismissed!¡±


    Sang Wan sighed to herself. The scolding and lesson this time was unavoidable!


    For Third Old Mistress Shi to speak such words in front of everyone, it was obvious that she was criticising Sang Wan¡¯s management of the household. For her mother-inw, who cared so much about dignity, to lose face in front of so many others, it would be a wonder if she could forgive her easily!


    However, as it was her own mother-inw, her attending to her mother-inw¡¯s needs carefully hade to fruition and her mother-inw still left her some face. She did not reprimand her right in front of everyone else!


    Sang Wan obeyed and followed Wang Shi submissively into the warm room.


    ¡°This is ridiculous!¡± Wang Shi said unhappily as she mmed the table heavily.


    Sang Wan¡¯s body stiffened and she instinctively lowered her head, ¡°Mother, Sang Wan really doesn¡¯t know why Third Aunt had such a big temper. Sang Wan will look into it carefully and give Mother and Third Aunt a proper exnation! Please believe Sang Wan! Sang Wan did not deliberately do anything imprudent to Third Aunt!¡±


    Wang Shi raised her gaze to look at Sang Wan once before waving her hand to say, ¡°I¡¯m not angry with you, I have trust in the way you handle your work! Alright, there are no more outsiders here, hurry and take a seat!¡±


    What? Sang Wan was dumbfounded and raised her head to look at Wang Shi in disbelief.


    ¡°What? Did you think Mother was angry with you? And would me it on you?¡± Wang Shi was feeling both amused and angry, and grunted, ¡°Will I not know my own daughter-inw? Of course you aren¡¯t that sort of person! Hmph, your third aunt was not an easy person even in the past. After so many years of not seeing her, she¡¯s be even bolder now! Picking on all the minor things as soon as shees back, hmph, just who is she showing her prowess to!¡±


    Wang Shi became angrier as she spoke, ¡°It isn¡¯t up to her yet to discipline my own daughter-inw! If she is that capable, then she should give birth to a son, and get herself a daughter-inw to discipline. Who does she think she is to make a fuss in front of my daughter-inw!¡±


    Sang Wan finally came to a realization from her initial confusion. Her mother-inw was furious at her third aunt for going above her head! Her mother-inw¡¯s words were sharp; if the words about not having a son were made known to third aunt, it would be the same as stabbing her heart with a knife!


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan let out a sigh of relief to herself and did not know whether to be angry at Third Old Mistress Shi or to thank her. Whatever the case, the punishment from Wang Shi was fortunately avoided this time!


    She went forward to massage Wang Shi¡¯s shoulders and back while saying gently, ¡°Please don¡¯t be angry, it is going to be the new year soon. If you damage your health, Fengju and I will be sad! Mother, maybe Third Aunt had a misunderstanding! Sang Wan will have someone to look into it and give you an answer!¡±


    ¡°What more is there to look into,¡± Wang Shi said angrily, ¡°This is nothing but a person who¡¯s purposely picking bones from an egg and dering her own status as one of the mistresses in household! Hmph, nobody said they were not! All these years, we¡¯ve never given them a silver less; which year did we not send a huge amount of silver for their disposal! This is just great. As soon as they¡¯re back, they¡¯re displeased about everything! If they were really capable, then don¡¯te back, it¡¯s not like we need them! Disciplining my daughter in-inw in front of me, hmph! Does she still see me as her big sister-inw!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan just treated those words as if they were nothing, and tried to console from the side with a gentle voice. Her mother-inw words were really vicious, if it were anyone who was overly-sensitive or with a bigger ego, they would definitely be really miserable. What her mother-inw was angry at was not her, but that her ¡°rights¡± were being encroached on by others and felt indignant!


    After venting it all out, Wang Shi finally felt more calm, but there was still anger in her words, ¡°Since they¡¯ve already made themselves clear, then next time, you don¡¯t have to bother about anything that happens with the third family! They can do whatever they want and let them torment themselves! Since no appreciation wille from doing good deeds for them, then it¡¯s better not to waste your energy and thoughts only to receive anger from them! Hear me?¡±


    Sang Wan saw how Wang Shi was still angry and did not dare to talk back to her. She quickly agreed and consoled again, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be too angry. Since we no longer have anything to do with them, what¡¯s the point of being angry? It was all Sang Wan¡¯s fault for messing up and causing Mother to be angry!¡±


    Wang Shi waved her hand and held Sang Wan¡¯s hands before patting them, ¡°Don¡¯t say that anymore, this must¡¯ve been hard on you! Sigh, how can I not be clear about the way you handle things? What¡¯s more, with Nanny Li¡¯s help and Fengju¡¯s asional aid, it is impossible for anything to go wrong! You¡¯re a good girl, don¡¯t think about this anymore and just treat it like a mad dog barking!¡±


    Sang Wan bit her lip and agreed muffledly. She almost burst outughing when she heard those words and felt a slight warmth in her heart. It felt good when her mother-inw¡¯s overprotectiveness was for her.


    ¡°Alright, you may go back now! Do what you need to do. Heng, don¡¯t worry, I will not let whatever happened today get spread outside! Whoever dares to spout any nonsense will be dealt with by me!¡± Wang Shi said angrily after she was done venting all her anger.


    ¡°Then Mother, please have a good rest. The weather in the afternoon is nice and warm. Going out to have a stroll will be good for the heart and the mood. Sang Wan will head back first!¡± Sang Wan felt a strong sense of relief and smiled as she left.


    ¡°Yes! Go now!¡± Wang Shi was pleased and nodded, but she did not forget to inform Sang Wan as she left, ¡°Call Nanny Jiang in for me!¡±


    Sang Wan obeyed and called for Nanny Jiang before leaving the main courtyard.


    At Ning Garden, while Liu Ya was helping her to take out the thick coat she wore for the winter, sheined unhappily, ¡°What medicine did Third Old Mistress eat today; how could she embarrass our young mistress in front of everyone! This servant feels really bad for Young Mistress! Having spent so much energy and not receiving any appreciation, Young Mistress shouldn¡¯t bother with the third family next time. She can do what she wants, suit herself!¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Sang Wan did not wait for her to finish before stopping her and scolded, ¡°Why does your mouth still speak so carelessly? How could you say that? If word gets outside, even I won¡¯t be able to save you!¡±


    ¡°This is Ning Garden, that¡¯s why this servant said those words. Who would dare to say that outside! Even if I get caught, I¡¯m not afraid!¡± Liu Ya was also an impulsive person when her temper red up, ¡°This servant just feels so angry for Young Mistress! What did Young Mistress even do wrong! And even First Old Mistress has never thrown your face away like this! All the more someone who isn¡¯t your parent-inw!¡± The words were said as the two went into the warm room in Ning Garden.


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face turned dark and she reprimanded, ¡°The less I speak, the more you are going at it? How many times have I told you that troublees from speaking absentmindedly? How did Nanny Li teach you?¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress...¡± Liu Ya bit her lip indignantly and looked pitifully at Sang Wan as she felt very hurt. `

 Chapter 173 - Third Old Master Shi’s Words

    <strong>Chapter 173: Third Old Master Shi¡¯s Words</strong>


    Sang Wan relented, and held her hands as she sighed softly and said, ¡°Enough, I know that you feel indignant for me, but there are some words that even I cannot say. Do you understand? Besides, other than making your mouth feel better byining, what good does that do? Everything has a cause, this matter¡ª¡ª¡±


    Liu Ya¡¯s eyes glimmered and was about to speak, but Shi Fengju pushed open the door and came in, ¡°Sang Wan!¡±


    Liu Ya tactfully bowed and took her leave quietly.


    ¡°Sang Wan, are you okay?¡± Shi Fengju went forward to hold Sang Wan¡¯s hands, and asked with concern.


    Sang Wan smiled and shook her head as she pulled him to sit together. While at it, she poured a cup of tea for him and asked with a smile, ¡°Why are you back so quickly? What¡¯d Big Sister find you for?¡±


    ¡°Only to speak some words to me, it wasn¡¯t anything major,¡± Shi Fengju took the tea but left it aside and said, ¡°I went over Mother¡¯s ce to find you and heard all about it from Mother. Sang Wan, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re feeling wronged!¡±


    Sang Wan felt a sense of warmth in her heart and shook her head gently before saying, ¡°Maybe I was careless and did something that Third Aunt dislikes. As someone of a younger generation, it¡¯s okay if she criticizes me a little. Anyway, Mother did not me me at all, so already I¡¯m very happy at heart.¡± As Sang Wan spoke with a smile, her eyes shimmered.


    ¡°That is true,¡± Shi Fengjuughed and pulled Sang Wan close. Smiling at her, he said, ¡°It¡¯s clear that Mother is reasonable and still treats you dearly! I feel less worried knowing that you won¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Of course Shi Fengju knew the real reason why his mother did not me Sang Wan. However, as a son, he was not foolish enough to make clear of that fact to Sang Wan. It was better to be foolish for some things in order for everyone to be happy. What was the point of making clear of the fact only to find trouble for himself.


    ¡°Still, I¡¯m afraid that Third Aunt still has some unhappiness towards me. We should still have someone investigate this properly to find out what really happened! That way, I can prevent the same mistake from happening again.¡± Sang Wan said again.


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ve already done that. The moment I came back, I¡¯ve already informed Nanny to do so. I believe she will be able to find out about it very soon.¡±


    Sang Wan felt more relieved in an instant and smiled gratefully towards him, ¡°With Nanny personally doing the investigation, then there really isn¡¯t anything to worry about. Third Aunt also mentioned that she wants to convert one of the side rooms into a small kitchen. Let¡¯s wait for Nanny to be back before making the decision, what do you think?¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head, ¡°The kitchen isn¡¯t very urgent at the moment!¡±


    At Peony Park, Gu Fangzi ordered Lan Xiang to ask around carefully while she waited excitedly for a storm to engulf Sang Wan. Just from a nce, she could tell that Third Old Mistress Shi was intolerant and someone who would not suffer in silence. After yesterday¡¯s anger-inducing incident, as well as all the things Third Old Mistress Shi had spilled to her, she did not believe that Third Old Mistress Shi would not take any actions today.


    However, half a day went by and Lan Xiang returned without any news.


    ¡°Did you really went to ask around?¡± Gu Fangzi asked suspiciously, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that Third Aunt went to visit Aunt Wang today morning? Did they only just sit down for a small talk?¡±


    ¡°This servant isn¡¯t very sure too,¡± Lan Xiang was in a difficult situation and shook her head, ¡°This servant did not dare to be too obvious when asking around in the main courtyard, but this servant feels that something must have happened.¡±


    ¡°Out with it!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s excitement was aroused.


    Lan Xiang did not want to say it at first, but seeing how her owner seemed to be suspicious of her, she could not help but spill whatever she could gather even though she was unsure in order to disy her loyalty, ¡°Just that, when this servant was trying to find out more, the servants there seemed to be stammering and hiding something. This servant thinks that something must¡¯ve happened, just that¡ª¡ª this servant cannot be sure...¡±


    ¡°No need to say anymore!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s face turned pale and her excitement sunk. Even though Lan Xiang did not understand, she had already understood.


    Something definitely happened in the main courtyard and the servants were ordered to keep their lips sealed. Hehe, in the main courtyard, other than Aunt Wang, who else can make the servants seal their lips?


    Aunt Wang, how dare she protect that vixen too!


    Gu Fangzi was so upset and jealous that she almost went crazy. Sang Wan, that vixen! First she stole away Big Cousin, and now she went and stole Aunt Wang away!.


    Turning her head, her hateful re was fixed in the direction of the side room where Gu Jin¡¯s tablet was ced. It was him, it was all because of him! When he was still alive, she had already suffered much humiliation, yet he was still blocking her from her happiness even now! Why was there such a father in this world!


    ¡°Missy, are you alright...¡± At one side, Lan Xiang saw Gu Fangzi¡¯s twisted face and vicious re, and became uneasy.


    ¡°Lan Xiang,¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s gazed hardened and she turned to stare coldly at the servant, ¡°Don¡¯t ever betray me, don¡¯t ever betray me in your entire life. Otherwise, I will never let you off! You know my temper!¡±


    Lan Xiang¡¯s face turned pale in an instant. Never had she dreamt that her concern would cause her missy to react in such a way. She quickly fell on both her knees and said, ¡°Missy, this servant ispletely loyal only to missy, and have never had any thoughts about betraying Missy! Whether dead or alive, this servant will always belong to Missy and will never do anything to betray Missy! If not, this servant swears to heaven above that lightning will strike and end this servant in a horrible death if this servant ever does so!¡±


    ¡°It better be that way.¡± Gu Fangzi sneered and said, ¡°If not, dying a horrible death is for certain, and it will be even worse than being struck by lightning!¡±


    Lan Xiang¡¯s body stiffened and she did not dare to speak as her head remained lowered.


    At night, Nanny Li returned with news, ¡°This old servant isn¡¯t very close with the servants from the Third family and did not find out many things. However, this old servant heard thatst night, Nanny Gui fell down and twisted her waist as she was walking back from here. The noodles that she was carrying back ended up spilling all over. After that, Miss Gu visited Ji Cui Tower and brought desserts. She then instructed Lan Xiang to cook a bowl of noodles for the third family. When she left, it was Third Old Mistress who saw her off!¡±


    Nanny Li pouted her lips and was even more disgusted. She took an instant dislike towards Third Old Mistress Shi. From how she saw it, birds of a feather flock together; Third Old Mistress Shi was definitely not a good person!


    Of course, unlike Liu Ya, she would never criticize the masters, and even if she did, she would only do so in her heart.


    Sang Wan immediately took notice of what Nanny Li said, ¡°So what Nanny is saying is that Miss Gu went to Ji Cui Towerst night?¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Nanny Li lips twitched and she said, ¡°I don¡¯t know what she¡¯s ying at! But whatever it is, Miss Gu¡¯s existence inherently shes with yours. Nothing goodes when it involves her! This old servant is really curious about what Miss Gu told Third Old Mistress. Just how did she ¡ª¡ª how did she manage to make use of Third Old Mistress!¡±


    Not only was Nanny Li bewildered, even Sang Wan was too. Although there was not much interaction between them, it was enough for Sang Wan to tell that Third Old Mistress Shi was not someone who could be easily fooled, or easily made use of by others, and must have given much thought before doing anything. Even with all that, she was still unhappy towards Sang Wan. It was clear that Sang Wan must have offended her in some way!


    But she did not know what it was that she did to offend her.


    ¡°Young Mistress, since Third Old Mistress wants a small kitchen, then let¡¯s have it arranged for her quickly! This would save a lot of our effort, and avoid Young Mistress¡¯s efforts going unappreciated!¡± Nanny Li sighed softly.


    Sang Wan nodded, ¡°Alright then! But who would have thought that such a thing had happenedst night? Have it arranged immediately and bring someone there with you tomorrow morning!¡±


    Nanny Li epted and the night went by peacefully.


    Third Old Mistress Shi thought that Sang Wan woulde over and apologize to her, but who knew that night came and still no one came. Third Old Mistress Shi became even more infuriated and she scolded Sang Wan for being rude! Little did she know that her actions had offended her big sister-inw, and her big sister-inw had instructed Sang Wan to ignore this matter. Sang Wan naturally did so as there was no point in shing with her direct mother-inw to please her aunt.


    Third Old Mistress Shi was so angry that she went andined to Third Old Master Shi, ¡°For all these years that we weren¡¯t home, who knows how much the household is earning every year. Lord, should we talk to Fengju about this, and ask to have a look at the finances?¡±


    ¡°What are you up to?¡± Third Old Master Shi¡¯s tone sunk and his face became cold.


    Third Old Mistress Shi said rudely, ¡°What else? Of course to check on them! We were so far apart, who knew if they¡¯ve done anything behind our backs! Our hearts will be more at ease if we check those books and that will also remind them of our presence!¡±


    Third Old Master Shi stared at his wife and remained silent for a long while.


    Seeing his weird stare, Third Old Mistress Shi felt unnerved by his prative gaze and could not help but re back at him, ¡°What? Why are you looking at me like that? Did I say something wrong? Don¡¯t we have the right to check the household¡¯s finances! If they don¡¯t allow us to do so, then something must definitely be wrong!¡±


    ¡°Wait for me here, I have something to show you.¡± Shi Third Old Master went into his small study room and took out two pieces of folded yellow paper before passing it to Third Old Mistress Shi.


    Third Old Mistress Shi took them with a look of suspicion. When she saw the mortgages of two shops, one a silk shop and the other a cosmetic shop, she quickly went to look at their address. They were both located at the heart of the city and were not small in size. She immediately became ted and smiled at Third Old Master Shi, ¡°When did you buy them? This is great! I was thinking of getting them. Since we are going to be staying for a long while, there¡¯s no way we can spend our days depending on just the portion of the household funds that we get. With these two properties to bring us an ie, we will be able to live morefortably!¡±


    If not, there would not be enough money to reward the servants on normal days! Won¡¯t they beughed at for being poor?


    ¡°Ai!¡± Shi Third Old Master let out a long sigh unwittingly, and looked at her as he said, ¡°You know, these two days, us three men have been drinking and talking at Second Brother¡¯s ce. Fengju already said that we can check the finance books anytime, and if there¡¯s anything unclear, we can just ask the ountant or him! As for these two shops, Fengju gave them to me privately. He said that the First family and Second family both have their own private properties outside, and we don¡¯t have that because we weren¡¯t at home. As such, he gave us two of his own shops, and said that it will let us use our money morefortably in the future! Dear, when we were in Sichuan, which year did the household not send us thousands of silvers? But what have we done for the household? There are some words you can say to my face, but never say it outside. If word reaches Fengju, think of how hurt he would be! Fengju, that child, is very honest, just like Big Brother. We, as their elders, should be more understanding and treat them better!¡±

 Chapter 174 - Let Bygones Be Bygones

    <strong>Chapter 174: Let Bygones Be Bygones</strong>


    Third Old Mistress Shi was stunned in that instant before her face turned red from feeling ashamed. How she wished she could hide herself.


    ¡°Is, is that for real?¡± Third Old Mistress Shi said hesitantly with a sour voice.


    ¡°Would I lie to you?¡± Third Old Master Shi nodded slowly before sighing softly. ¡°In the future, don¡¯t overthink too much! Fengju is an honest child and Sang Wan has already done enough. Even if there were one or two areas that were unsatisfactory, for Fengju¡¯s sake, we should not be too particr! I heard that you went and threw Sang Wan¡¯s face in front of Big Sister-inw; I¡¯m afraid what you did would have only irked her! It¡¯s not as if you don¡¯t know how protective Big Sister-inw is of her own people!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s thoughts were instantly put in turmoil and she spoke in a huff, ¡°I, I just can¡¯t get over it! First was Ying Fang who got a fracture, then Nanny Gui twisted her waist. These mishaps happened one after another, who wouldn¡¯t be angry?¡±


    ¡°Here you go again!¡± Third Old Master Shi creased his eyebrows and said, ¡°They were two different and unconnected matters, so why are you putting them together? It was the servants¡¯ carelessness that caused Ying Fang to fall, and Sang Wan already gave us an exnation for it! As for the matter with Nanny Gui, about that, it was because we missed the time to eat which caused it to happen, what did it have to do with Sang Wan? Again with the words I always say, touch your heart and think, in which area had Sang Wan not thought things through thoroughly? Is there anyone who can do better?


    Third Old Mistress Shi was at a loss for words for a moment. After some thought, she sighed and said, ¡°I¡¯m not the unreasonable sort that likes to find trouble for others. It¡¯s just that we returned not too long ago; if we don¡¯t establish our ce, won¡¯t we end up living like ves? Lord, I¡¯m sure you won¡¯t want that as well! Sang Wan did do well, but not amazingly enough. Fangzi wasparable to her.¡±


    ¡°As long as you understand!¡± Third Old Master Shi¡¯s face sank, and continued, ¡°We are masters of this household, is there any need to establish our ce? Which servant will dare disrespect us? If there are, just sack them! I don¡¯t believe that with the rules within the household, Sang Wan and Fengju would disregard the elders and side with the servants? If that really is the case, then I will do something about it myself! About Fangzi, it¡¯ll be better for you to have less contact with her. She is now Fengju¡¯s concubine, it won¡¯t be good for you to have too much interaction with her!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s attention was immediately captured by her husband¡¯s words. Her eyes widened and said in shock, ¡°What did you say? Fangzi is ¡ª¡ª Fengju¡¯s concubine?¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t know!¡± This time, it was Third Old Master Shi¡¯s turn to be shocked.


    ¡°How did that happen!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sighed. She was sure that her husband would not joke around about such a matter, ¡°How could Big Sister-inw do that? Letting her blood-rted niece to be her son¡¯s concubine, this really is ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t speak such nonsense!¡± Third Old Master Shi¡¯s eyebrows frowned again, ¡°This had nothing to do with Big Sister-inw. Do you still remember that Fangzi stayed in our household since young? I¡¯m not very clear about this myself, but you can ask around next time when you are free to find out for yourself.¡±


    Third Old Master Shi was conscious of his own position. He naturally would not gossip about his nephew¡¯s flings, but his wife¡¯s heart ended up being tickled with curiosity. Third Old Mistress Shi was not giving up until she got to the heart of the matter, and even though Third Old Master Shi kept his lips sealed, her persistence made him unseal his lips and reveal everything that he had identally overheard.


    ¡°The past half a year was so eventful!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi sighed in revtion, and was regretful about missing out on what happened!


    Third Old Mistress Shi could not resistmenting, ¡°From the way I see it, Fengju really loves Sang Wan. Fangzi sure is pitiful, she¡¯s in for a difficult life ahead!¡± She nced once at Third Old Master Shi and whispered in a low voice, ¡°So it¡¯s true that a man¡¯s heart is fickle! They change anytime they want!¡±


    Shi Third Old Master grumbled, ¡°The marriage between Fengju and Sang Wan was settled a long time ago; who in this household doesn¡¯t know? Fengju already knew that he has a wife, so it¡¯s only a given for him to be nice; what you said about Sang Wan is unfair! Talking about inappropriateness, Gu Fangzi already knew about the engagement Fengju had so she should have avoided having unnecessary contact with him to avoid a scene. Instead, she ended up creating so much trouble. I feel that the one suffering from all these is Sang Wan!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi was indignant, ¡°Your words aren¡¯t fair either. Maybe it was Fengju who approached her first?¡±


    ¡°Fengju does not seem like that sort of person,¡± Third Old Master Shi said, ¡°Anyway, even if Shi Fengju approached her first, if she were well-mannered, she should have avoided him! Marrying into the household during her period of mourning, I don¡¯t think such a woman is appropriate in any way. You shouldn¡¯t get too close with her in the future; and our two daughters as well, don¡¯t let them get too close with her too!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi just remained silent.


    On the next day, Nanny Li brought along a few servants to Ji Cui Tower and asked for opinions from Third Old Mistress Shi on where to change into a small kitchen as they could begin at this very moment. ¡°Young Mistress and Young Master have been busy checking the new year gifts for each household to see whether they are suitable. The new year gifts for you will be sent over in the next two days. Young Mistress said that after the two busy days, she wille over to greet Third Old Mistress. Young Mistress also instructed this old servant to ask Third Old Mistress and Third Old Master whether there are any other rtives to send gifts to. The household has only sent gifts to Third Old Mistress¡¯s parental family in the past and has never sent to any other rtives. Since Third Mistress is back, should we make some preparations? If there are any to send, please make a list and gifts for Young Mistress and she will have the servants prepare them for you!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t even think about this, Sang Wan is so detailed!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi was deeply ashamed of herself and she supported her forehead as she smiled, ¡°I will make the list for you now; then I¡¯ll have to trouble Sang Wan! The small kitchen isn¡¯t an urgent matter, I was thinking that there isn¡¯t any need for the rush. Changing it next year is fine too! Nanny Li, you should do other things that are urgent first!¡±


    ¡°This old servant has already found the people to do it. It¡¯s a matter than can bepleted in one or two days time, it¡¯s no trouble at all!¡± Nanny Li smiled and said, ¡°In such cold weather, it will be more convenient to have a small kitchen nearby even if it is just for brewing a cup of hot tea, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi sighed and said with a smile, ¡°Indeed. Alright then, I will lead all of you there! Sang Wan truly has the heart, I will have to remember to thank her in the future!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi got up and led Nanny Li towards the side room. Nanny Li followed behind and smiled as she said, ¡°Third Mistress, you are too polite. Our young mistress is not too particr about such!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi smiled. Recalling her husband¡¯s words, she felt even more guilty,


    At Ning Garden, Sang Wan and Shi Fengu looked through every gift request to every rtive and friend. The two servants from the household department who were in charge stood beside the couple and answered all their questions. The two servants also wrote down all of the amendments, and after a long day of changing it twice, they were finally done.


    After awhile, Zhan Huan requested to meet from the outside, saying that the things his young master bought had arrived. Shi Fengju hurriedly ordered Liu Ya to bring along a few young maidservants to pick them up. He then turned to Sang Wan and smiled, ¡°I asked Zhan Huan to prepare them a few days ago. They¡¯re presents for you, you¡¯ll definitely like them!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you just give me clothes and essories a few days ago? From where did you manage to get more presents again?¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled, ¡°You will know when you see them, I guarantee that you will like them!¡±


    After a while, Liu Ya and two young maidservants, each carrying a wooden box that was two feet long in breadth and one feet long in height. There was also another palm-sized brocade box. Shi Fengju instructed for the boxes to be put on the bed before ordering everyone else to leave.


    Shi Fengju hugged his wife from the back and pouted his lips, ¡°Guess what¡¯s inside?¡±


    Sang Wan giggled and gave him a backward nce before asking, ¡°So what if I guessed correctly? Or if I guessed wrongly?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s hands lingered on her waist before giving a light pinch. She let out a slight moan and pped away his hand in return. He rested his chin on her shoulder and rubbed against her face and loose hair as heughed in a low voice, ¡°They are yours regardless of whether you guessed correctly or not. If you guessed correctly, there¡¯ll be a reward for you tonight. If you guessed wrongly, then there¡¯ll be a punishment...¡±


    This made Sang Wan blush and she softlyined, ¡°No matter what, I¡¯ll follow your wish.¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and said intimately, ¡°How is it you following my wish? From the way I see it, you seem to be enjoying yourself¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan became even more embarrassed and struggled to push herself away from him. But Shi Fengju would not allow it. Heughed at the sight of how meekly and half-inviting she was behaving and his heart shook. He held her face in one swoop and kissed her passionately until the both of them were out of breath before letting her go.


    ¡°You. The sky isn¡¯t dark yet, so don¡¯t act so recklessly!¡± Sang Wan panted. Her face was as red as the sunset and her eyes were brighter than usual.


    Shi Fengju knew that her skin was thin and was afraid that she would get mad again so he did not tease her any further. His finger gently caressed her delicate lips and he whispered, ¡°Okay, the sky isn¡¯t dark yet so I won¡¯t mess around with you!¡± Seeing his wife¡¯s bashful and alluring face, how he wished he could bring her into the chamber and give her some love at that very instant.


    His words are getting more and more inappropriate! Sang Wan¡¯s heart wavered and before the blush could go away, her face turned even redder. The gentlemanly image of him in her heart waspletely tarnished.


    ¡°Just what are they? Really, why are you acting all mysterious!¡± Sang Wan felt that it would be better to go back to the topic.


    ¡°Try and guess!¡± Shi Fengju was still smiling and teasing her. He gave her a measuring look while keeping a smile as if he was wondering whether she would be rewarded or punished.


    Sang Wan saw the suggestive look on his face and instantly blushed again while avoiding his stare nervously. She started making wild guesses, such as makeup, essories, jade hairpins, flower hairpins, earrings, bracelets, foundation, powder, perfume, and so on. Of all the items she tried, none of them were correct. Shi Fengju just smiled and shook his head at every attempt.


    ¡°I¡¯m not guessing anymore!¡± Sang Wan could not help but feel a little disappointed, ¡°I have not the slightest clue and my throat is getting dry from all the guessing. I am not guessing anymore!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and grabbed a warm tea cup that was by the side from the side and opened its lid before bringing close to Sang Wan¡¯s lips. While she was taking a few sips, she heard him say, ¡°So do you admit that you¡¯ve lost? Then you¡¯ll have to listen to me at night...¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned hot, and she avoided the question by asking, ¡°Just what are they, really!¡± In her heart, no matter whether she won or lost, when had she not listen to him when in bed? So long as you don¡¯t have too many embarrassing positions under your sleeves...


    Thinking about it, she was embarrassed herself. This person was actually a wolf beneath his facade, waiting for any chance to strip her bare and swallow her entirely.

 Chapter 175 - Why Isn’t The New Year Gifts For Our Family Prepared?

    <h4>Chapter 175: Why Isn¡¯t The New Year Gifts For Our Family Prepared?</h4>


    ¡°Have a look,¡± Shi Fengju stopped teasing her. He grabbed one of the small boxes and opened it in front of her. Bright golden rays escaped from inside; the box was filledpletely with differently sized nuggets that were each covered with a gold leaf. Imprinted on them were various depictions: and many more. The workmanship of each and every nugget was exquisite and ingenious. Wrapped in an embroidered pouch, they were a perfect gift to children of rtives and friends when meeting for the first time during the New Year!


    Sang Wan was delighted. She looked through a few of them, and the more she looked, the more she liked them. With a smile, she said, ¡°You are the thoughtful one. I¡¯ve been thinking about this for the past few days and wanted to discuss with Nanny!¡±


    ¡°Discuss with Nanny?¡± Shi Fengju said with a hint of jealousy, ¡°Did you not think of discussing with me instead?¡±


    Embarrassed, Sang Wan smiled as she quickly held his hands to please him, ¡°Lord is someone who does great things, how would I have the cheek to inconvenience you with a matter this small! If Nanny were to catch wind of this, she would definitely reproach me for not knowing how to take care of you!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression returned to his face and he said, ¡°Oh, so it¡¯s because you were scared of Nanny¡¯s scolding. Then did you think of how you¡¯re going to care for me?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sang Wan became speechless for a moment before she spoke with a hint of shyness, ¡°I, I¡¯m sure Lord knows my thoughts, I¡¯m not going to say it...¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed out loud; consider her being let off this once. He went and open the other two boxes. One of the boxes contained the same nuggets, but they were covered in silver rather than gold, which could be used to reward the head servants and married women. The other box contained brand new copper coins which were also for rewarding during the New Year.


    ¡°I¡¯ve suddenly thought about this a few days ago and went ahead to help you settle it. Have Liu Ya and the rest keep it away for now. Will all of this be enough for you to use for the New Year?¡± Shi Fengju asked with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ve not experienced it before so I can¡¯t be sure about it. I will ask Nannyter, but it should be more or less enough!¡± Sang Wan smiled. At that moment, she was deeply moved by this.


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°This will be your first time spending New Year at our household. Next year, you will have the experience! After you ask Nanny and it¡¯s not enough, just let me know and I¡¯ll have the jewelry store make more of it!¡±


    Sang Wan responded with a smile.


    ¡°Oh right,¡± Shi Fengju grabbed another box and opened it. In it were stacks of banknotes that were arranged neatly. He smiled and said, ¡°In here are three thousand silvers. Two notes worth five hundred silvers, fifteen of them are worth a hundred silvers, and the rest of are worth fifty and ten silvers. Keep them and use them for the New Year! If you need small change, you can ask someone to exchange them with the ountant.¡±


    Sang Wan was shocked and hurriedly smiled and said, ¡°My spending In the New Year has a limit, and there¡¯s also enough in the household funds, why would I need so much!¡± Suddenly being told that thisrge sum of money was now hers, she couldn¡¯t ept it on the spot. With thisrge sum of money in hand, she would feel uneasy,


    ¡°Just keep them if you can¡¯t finish them! I am your husband, everything would be handed over to you to manage sooner orter. When I have to travel far away, if you don¡¯t take care of them for me, who would?¡± Shi Fengju did notply and insisted on giving it to her. He wanted to treat her well, treat her really well, and share everything he had with her.


    Seeing that he was a little mncholic and seemed somewhat unhappy, she did not dare to refuse him anymore and epted with a smile. Only then was Shi Fengju pleased and hugged his lovable wife while speaking gently and intimately with her.


    Two dayster, Sang Wan went to pay a visit to Ji Cui Tower, bringing with her the newly-made clothes and the list of gifts for the third family¡¯s rtives.


    Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and weed her in. She greeted Sang Wan intimately as though the previous unhappy incident did not happen at all.


    Sang Wan was a little tense at first, but seeing the situation, she heaved a sigh of relief even though it puzzled her. She also smiled and spoke intimately with Third Old Mistress Shi as she delivered the instructions clearly for the clothes and list of gifts.


    ¡°It must¡¯ve been a lot of trouble for you!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi was not invariably an overbearing and haughty person. If not, Third Old Master Shi could forget about being an official. At this moment, she held Sang Wan¡¯s hands and earnestly said, ¡°Our return ended up troubling you to manage everything for us, it must¡¯ve been difficult for you to manage everything thoroughly.¡±


    ¡°Third Aunt is being too polite, all Sang Wan did was use her mouth, the rest were done by the servants. It was no trouble at all! If there¡¯s any part that isn¡¯t up to your satisfaction, I will be contented if Third Aunt does not get angry with me!¡±


    ¡°Why would I be angry with you! I can¡¯t be grateful enough to you already!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi expressed her true feelings with a smile. She called Nanny Gui to bring over an embroidered box. She took out a pomegranate ruby bracelet and ced it on Sang Wan¡¯s hand before smiling, ¡°All the mess when we returned has been tidied not too long ago, and only then did I realize that I¡¯ve not given you any present on our first meeting! This ruby is the most auspicious and efficacious one, it will bless you with sons and happiness!¡±


    Sang Wan blushed as she lowered her gaze and thanked with a smile.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be shy,¡± Third Old Mistress Shi couldn¡¯t help but smile and said, ¡°Fengju dotes on you so much, there¡¯s no doubt that he¡¯s looking forward to be a father! With a son, your family will be perfect!¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Nanny Gui joined in from the side and said with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, at a nce, you look like someone with good fortune. You will definitely get a son for your first born!¡±


    ¡°Well said!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi said with a smile. Sang Wan was not in the position to speak and could only sit with a forced smile on her face. She remained for a while and hurriedly searched for a reason to excuse herself.


    ¡°I know that you have many things to handle so I shall not dy you! When you are free tomorrow,e to Third Aunt¡¯s ce!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi personally saw her off until the door. She held her hands and moved two steps forward to avoid the servants following them before saying softly, ¡°Sang Wan, Third Aunt was impulsive a few days ago and had gone too far with my words, please don¡¯t take it to heart! Third Aunt knows that you are a good child and does not act fictitiously!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly replied, ¡°Third Aunt, please don¡¯t say that. You are the elder and Sang Wan is the younger one, I am not worthy of these words! You are making Sang Wan uneasy!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, Third Aunt won¡¯t speak of it anymore,¡± Third Aunt said with a smile, ¡°Next time, when you are free,e over and chat at Third Aunt¡¯s ce!¡±


    ¡°En, if Third Aunt does not mind Sang Wan¡¯s ignorance, Sang Wan will dly ept!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded as she took her leave.


    Even though she did not know what caused Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s change in attitude, it was a good thing for Sang Wan. As though a huge rock had been lifted from her heart, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    However, problems soon started to arise at Shi Yumei¡¯s end.


    On the next morning when Sang Wan and Shi Fengju went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce to give their morning greetings, Shi Yumei said unhappily, ¡°Sang Wan, I heard that the list of gifts for friends and family has been nned and prepared already?¡±


    ¡°Yes...¡± Sang Wan nodded hesitantly while casting a nce at Shi Fengju subconsciously, ¡°Fengju and I have gone through it two days ago and we are sending the gifts to rtives and friends starting today...¡±


    ¡°Is it?¡± Shi Yumei raised her brow, ¡°Then what about my family? Why didn¡¯t you prepare any for my family¡¯s rtives and friends?¡±


    Your family? Sang Wan was startled. Then she remembered that Shi Yumei must mean the Ren family. Sang Wan was speechless and looked at Shi Fengju in distress. Shi Fengju knitted his brows and was about to speak, only to hear Wang Shi let out a sound of realization, ¡°Ah? Your family? Are you referring to the Ren family?¡±


    Sang Wan bit her lip as she almostughed out loud. Her heart was greatly relieved. She had originally thought that her mother-inw was the one who made Shi Yumei ask it, but in fact, her mother-inw was just as unaware. Moreover, from the tone of her words, it was clear that she did not agree with it. This made matters a lot easier.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Yumei was hurt and yelled at Wang Shi before she said unhappily, ¡°It¡¯s almost New Year and we are still considered as part of the Ren family. We should at least send some New Year gifts to their elders! If not, people will definitely gossip about it!¡±


    Shi Fengju snorted silently as he thought to himself: Afraid of people talking behind our backs? How strange! Without even giving much thought, he was sure the idea was stirred up by Ren Zhixian. If not for him, his big sister would not havee up with that herself.


    Shi Fengju sneered secretly. How clever of him to make use of Big Sister to take the front while hiding behind her back. Is he even a man?


    ¡°This¡ª¡ª¡± Wang Shi knitted her brows too. Her daughter¡¯s words made sense. They were considered part of the Ren family; if they did not respect their elders, the Ren family might not be willing to help them if they were in difficult times in the future. After all, their surname was Ren; the Shi family were in no position to help others.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Yumei saw that her mother was moved and she immediately became very pleased with herself. She ordered Sang Wan, ¡°Be quick and prepare them today, if¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju suddenly interrupted her. He smiled and asked, ¡°Brother-inw is the head of the house, shouldn¡¯t this important matter be ordered by him? Why is it Big Sister instead? I think we should get Brother-inw over to discuss about this!¡±


    Shi Yumei became distressed and hurriedly replied, ¡°He, he is busy with revision these few days! Let¡¯s not disturb him! Oh right,¡± Shi Yumei took out two pieces of paper and said, ¡°These are the lists drafted by him, just prepare ording to it!¡±


    Xiu Chun took papers and passed them to Shi Fengju. Seeing the lists made Shi Fengju angrier, but he did not express it on his face and spoke instead, ¡°No, no, we should still trouble Brother-inw to rify it to our faces! If he does not rify this with us, how can we prepare them properly? Two pieces of dried meat, but who knows how big they should be or what kind of meat? Should the pair of chicken be male or female? And how big should they be? We have to rify this! Brother-inw is from a literary family; what he listed may not be what we think it is. What if the things we prepared did not suit him? Doesn¡¯t that mean we were busy for nothing!¡±


    Shi Fengju sneered in his heart. Asking others to prepare his New Year gifts and not even showing up or giving a word of thanks. Does he treat our Shi family like servants to order around? Does he think that he¡¯s the master of this household?


    Sang Wan pinched her handkerchief and sat unperturbed as she acted as if she had heard nothing. However, she felt that all this was ridiculous and this brother-inw of theirs was not what he imed to be! No wonder Fengju was furious.


    Shi Yumei remained silent for a moment. She could hear her brother¡¯s displeasure, so she looked at Wang Shi for help. ¡°Mother!¡±


    ¡°I think Fengju is right,¡± Wang Shi said, ¡°Go and call my son-inw over. Being away from his revision for a moment won¡¯t affect him much, and wouldn¡¯t rifying this matter save us lots of trouble?¡±

 Chapter 176 - He’s Really Disappointing

    <strong>Chapter 176: He¡¯s Really Disappointing</strong>


    ¡°They can¡¯t even handle something this trivial? Just what¡¯s the meaning of this? Do they still consider me as their son-inw! Is it because they¡¯re filthy rich so they¡¯re looking down on others? In the future when I pass the imperial examinations and get an official position, if they¡¯re capable enough, they¡¯d better note and look for me!¡± In Shi Yumei¡¯s ears echoed the words of her angry husband, how would she dare to call him over?


    ¡°No need!¡± Shi Yumei said, ¡°Just prepare it as you would for others! I can handle a small matter like this personally. If I say I can, it means I can!¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then so be it!¡± Wang Shi looked at her daughter first, and then her son, before looking at Sang Wan atst, ¡°Sang Wan, just take the lists and prepare ording to them quickly! Once you¡¯re done, send them to Mengxian. The elders of your sister-inw¡¯s husband are still elders, be respectful to them!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother.¡± Sang Wan could only rise and nod in agreement as she answered with a soft voice.


    ¡°Brother-inw sure is busy!¡± Shi Fengju smiled faintly again, ¡°Mother, I still feel that this isn¡¯t a good idea. After all, they are Brother-inw¡¯s elders, how can he not show up and rify the items personally so that things can go perfectly? Since Brother-inw has such a heart to respect the elders, how could he not show up or give a single word for something this important? Isn¡¯t this very disrespectful of him?¡±


    ¡°Second Brother, are you deliberately trying to sh with me!¡± Shi Yumei questioned. Her eyes turned red and she red at him.


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Shi Fengju did not flinch, ¡°Do you think so? All I don¡¯t understand is why Brother-inw can¡¯te down personally to tell us? Does he treat us as rtives or servants? Do we have to do as instructed whenever he orders us to? And we¡¯re not even allowed to ask him at all!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother! Why would you think that way! When did I ever mean that!¡± Shi Yumei became anxious and felt wronged as well.


    ¡°Fengju!¡± Wang Shi saw that her daughter¡¯s eyes and face were red, and could not help but re at Shi Fengju angrily.


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju was upset at himself for shing with his sister, but what made him angrier was the anger within him that could not be vented on her. He held back his feelings and said apologetically, ¡°My bad, Big Sister, I didn¡¯t say that on purpose, it was just that my heart was feeling ufortable! How can Brother-inw be like this? He didn¡¯t show his face and give a single instruction about something this important; does he still treat us as his rtives!¡±


    Even though Shi Yumei was unwilling to admit it, she knew that Shi Fengju was right but even more so how prideful of a person her husband was; he would never step forth and ¡°beg¡± the Shi family to help him prepare the gifts and only knew to vent his anger on her. In short, this matter could go either way but she would remain stuck in between them!


    On one side, she was unable to make herself clear to her mother and brother, and on the other, she could not persuade her husband at home to change his mind.


    ¡°No wonder Second Brother is angry. This, this should¡¯ve been done by us. We shouldn¡¯t have troubled Second Brother, I, I...¡± Shi Yumei could not find anymore words to speak, and her tears fell from her eyes as she promptly wiped them off with her handkerchief.


    ¡°Yumei! Yumei!¡± Wang Shi quickly held her hands and patted them gently, ¡°You fool, what is there to cry for! Your brother doesn¡¯t mind, so stop being sad; this small matter is nothing!¡±


    Sang Wan had mixed feelings as she watched from the side. She could not help but be moved by how great it was to have the support of a strong maternal family! Otherwise, for a couple like Shi Yumei¡¯s, their life would have be dire and miserable!


    ¡°Fengju! Say something!¡± Wang Shi red at him angrily.


    Shi Fengju could only push back the grievance in his heart and speak gently, ¡°Big Sister, please don¡¯t cry anymore. You¡¯re making Mother sad too! I didn¡¯t say I wouldn¡¯t help you! Mother is right, this matter is nothing. It¡¯s just that I was disappointed at Brother-inw.¡±


    Shi Yumei stopped weeping as she lowered her head and found herself at a loss of words. After a moment, she raised her head and said firmly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Second Brother, in the future when he passes the imperial examinations and bes an official, I will not allow him to be ungrateful. I will make him return our Shi family¡¯s kindness!¡±


    That isn¡¯t something I¡¯d count on! Shi Fengju thought to himself. To count on him to return our kindness? The sky would be raining blood by then! Besides, can someone like him even pass? Big Sister, you¡¯re really thinking too highly of him!


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that,¡± Shi Fengju smiled faintly and said, ¡°Our Shi family doesn¡¯t need it. It¡¯s enough if he treats you well in the future!¡±


    ¡°He sure will! He didn¡¯t abandon me now even though the days are hard; he¡¯ll definitely not in the future!¡± Shi Yumei hurriedly smiled and said.


    It was Shi Fengju¡¯s turn to be speechless. That man wasn¡¯t a fool, there¡¯s no way he¡¯d abandon you now! Otherwise, he would end up cold and hungry! In the future if he ever bes sessful, it would be hard to say for certain!


    Of course Shi Fengju would not dare to say it in front of Shi Yumei as it would be like stabbing his sister at her heart.


    Shi Fengju flipped over the first piece of paper to look at the second piece. He frowned at what he saw and said bluntly, ¡°We can prepare the gifts for the elders, but the names on this paper are by no means part of the Ren family. As for these study items, paintings, and such, who are these for?¡±


    Shi Yumei was startled. She could only lower her gaze and answer softly, ¡°They, they are for your brother-inw¡¯s friends in Mengxian... Your brother-inw said to prepare gifts for them too.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± Before Shi Fengju had the chance to open his mouth, Wang Shi was already panting with rage and scolded, ¡°Those group of scoundrels who don¡¯t set a good example for my son-inw, I don¡¯t see the point of being good to them! It¡¯s best to break contact with them!¡±


    ¡°Mother! How can you say that!¡± Shi Yumei panicked.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I!¡± Wang Shi said angrily, ¡°From how I see it, those people are the ones leading my son-inw astray. If not, they wouldn¡¯t have brought him to those suggestive ces! Yumei, it¡¯s not that Mother wants to nag you, but there are some things where you have to use your authority as a wife; you cannot let him do as he pleases!¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± Shi Fengju said with resolve, ¡°It is a must to pay respect to the elders, but these friendships and favors shouldn¡¯t be handled by me, right? If not, I will really end up being deemed as his servant!¡±


    Those words were right. Shi Yumei moved her lips but no words came out. In the end, she could only close her mouth and agree.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled!¡± Wang Shi made the final decision. She turned to Sang Wan and said, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ll be having a little more to do now. Ask the purchase department to hurry and arrange another set of gifts before having someone deliver it to Mengxian!¡±


    Wang Shi let out a sigh as she was feeling sullen. For the Ren family to use the Shi family to send New Year gifts to their elders, no matter how she thought about it, it just did not seem right!


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan rose and agreed before leaving together with Shi Fengju.


    By chance, Zhuang Weixian had pressing matters and was looking for Shi Fengju. As such, Shi Fengju had a change of clothes first before leaving and left Sang Wan with the lists to pass to a head servant to do as he saw fit. Sang Wan epted with a smile.


    Once Shi Fengju had left, Sang Wan said to Liu Ya and Zhide, ¡°Your old mistress and young master had refuted your eldest missy. Who knows whether she mighte over and find trouble for me. I¡¯ll need all of you to be quick-witted. If you see someone approaching, don¡¯t speak of any nonsense; I think I should hide for a while!¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Zhide and Liu Ya smiled and answered. Liu Ya eximed all of a sudden, ¡°Eldest Missy is actually quite pitiful!¡±


    ¡°There you go again, what nonsense are you saying!¡± Sang Wan became angry at her.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it the case!¡± Liu Ya said, ¡°Women are afraid of being married to the wrong husband, this isn¡¯t wrong! I say, our young mistress has a good life only because Young Master is a good husband!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Zhide smiled and approved, ¡°Young Master dotes on Young Mistress more than before; who in this household doesn¡¯t know that!¡±


    ¡°You two sure are free to be mocking me here. Hurry along and do your work!¡± Sang Wan could not help but smile as she scolded them.


    While they were talking, they heard the greetings from the servants outside, ¡°Eldest Missy, you¡¯re here!¡±


    In the warm room, the faces of the three changed. Sang Wan hurriedly instructed, ¡°Say that I¡¯m not here. Hurry and leave now!¡±


    Liu Ya ran out frantically and was immediately met with Shi Yumei walking in from outside. ¡°Eh, where¡¯s your young mistress? Is she inside?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Missy!¡± Just her luck! Liu Ya quickly signalled to stop the servants from answering and moved forward to greet Shi Yumei, ¡°Eldest Missy, wee. But coincidentally, our Young Mistress has just left!¡±


    ¡°She left?¡± Shi Yumei raised her brow in disbelief, ¡°Where did she go?¡±


    Liu Ya shook her head and said, ¡°This servant does not know. This servant was only just done with my task and Young Mistress had already left... Does Eldest Missy have something for Young Mistress?¡±


    Shi Yumei snorted and said in a bad mood, ¡°Would I be here if there¡¯s nothing? Since she¡¯s not here, forget it then. Later when she¡¯s back, ask her to wait for me in the house and send someone to inform me at Jiao Garden. I have something important to talk to her about!¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Liu Ya hurriedly replied as she saw Shi Yumei out.


    ¡°Young Mistress,¡± Liu Ya returned into the house after seeing that Shi Yumei had left and she said, ¡°We may have fooled her, but if Eldest Missy finds out that you lied to her, she would definitely throw a fit!¡±


    Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°I will leave from the back gate and walk about this instant, that wouldn¡¯t count as deceiving her!¡± If they met, things would be more problematic, especially when she did not know how to handle her! Even though Wang Shi and Shi Fengju had used their authority to bicker with her, they still had to be considerate of her feelings. If so, how was she going to talk back to her? As if she would buy it!


    Sang Wan then called for the lynx overcoat to be draped over her shoulders.


    Zhide smiled and said, ¡°But in this cold day, where will you be headed to? Oh right, Second Missy, Third Missy, Fourth Missy, and Fifth Missy are having a barbeque and plum blossom viewing at Qing Ying Pavilion, why don¡¯t Young Mistress join in the fun! A word that you were concerned about them and went to have a look should make a good excuse!¡±


    ¡°Not bad, not bad!¡± Liu Ya also smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s a great idea! This morning, Second Missy and the rest even asked you for the different types of fresh meat, condiments and charcoal, grill and hammer! We should head over there and have a look!¡±


    Sang Wan also agreed with a smile. She left Zhide to look after the house and brought Liu Ya and two other servants with her as she left using the back gate. They headed towards the plum forest to find Shi Yuzhen, Shi Lian, and the rest.


    Shi Lian¡¯s injured leg had recovered, and it had been a long time since the sisters had met so they gathered together to eat and y. The entire ce was bustling with noise and excitement. Seeing Sang Wan arrive, they hurriedly smiled and shouted ¡°Sister-inw!¡± as they rose and greeted her.


    ¡°All of you sure have a knack for enjoying good food! I could smell the aroma from far away!¡± Sang Wan could not help butugh.


    Shi Yuzhen smiled, ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to Sister Sang Wan who gave us these fresh beef and venison. Sister Sang Wan arrived at the right time, we were just about to start grilling the best meat!¡±

 Chapter 177 - Is He Trying To Show His Devotion?

    <h4>Chapter 177: Is He Trying To Show His Devotion?</h4>


    ¡°That¡¯s right! I was too preupied with picking the plum blossom flowers just now! Sister Sang Wan, I picked these myself! Aren¡¯t they beautiful?¡± Shi Yulin smiled brightly as she pulled on Sang Wan while pointing at a vase.


    ¡°They sure are beautiful. Fourth Sister, you have a good eye for flowers!¡± Sang Wan smiled andplimented her before speaking again, ¡°Next time when you want to pick flowers, ask the servants to pick them for you. Don¡¯t do it yourself, or else you might end up injuring your hand!¡±


    Shi Yulin raised her head and said haughtily, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid! There¡¯s no way the servants know which are the best! They have no eye for it!¡± Everyoneughed as she spoke.


    They talked andughed, grilled and ate meat, until Shi Fengju came to look for them. Only then did they realize it was already afternoon and they hurriedly bid one another farewell before leaving for home. Of course, they could not miss out on teasing their brother and sister-inw. Shi Fengju scolded them jokingly with a few words while Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red with embarrassment as she lowered her head and smiled slightly without saying a word.


    ¡°There I was, thinking where you went! I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d be hanging out with those brats!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°You like to eat grilled meat? Once it¡¯s after the New Year, I¡¯ll take you to the country house and grill some wild meat. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Sure, then I¡¯ll be waiting for your invitation after the New Year!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said before asking hurriedly, ¡°I thought you would be eating outside with Young Master Zhuang. In a blink of an eye, I didn¡¯t think it¡¯d be thiste already!¡± Sang Wan smiled with a hint of embarrassment.


    Shi Fengju grinned as he leaned close to her all of a sudden, ¡°Were you afraid of Big Sistering to find you?¡±


    Sang Wan was taken aback and felt embarrassed. She nodded her head honestly and said pitfully, ¡°You saw through me! Yes, I was indeed hiding away from her! If shees and find me, there¡¯s no way I can handle her!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart softened. He held her hands and said softly, ¡°If she goes to find you, you just have to push it all to me! My big brother-inw is too despicable! Always finding trouble for others! Yesterday, Fenghua said that he wanted toe back, but I told him not to and to dy for as long as possible. Otherwise, my big brother-inw would definitely bother him everyday!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯ll be as bad as you think!¡± Sang Wan was surprised and smiled, ¡° Big Brother-inw and Third Brother are not like-minded, why would he want to find Third Brother!¡±


    Shi Fengju sneered slightly and said, ¡°In our Shi family, only Third Brother is a schr, and so only Third Brother is worthy to speak to someone like him! He looks down on me, so it¡¯s only natural that he would want Third Brother to look up to him at all cost! And of course, if Third Brother can tter him, admire him, and listen to his advice, he would be very pleased!¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Sang Wan sounded, but she did not utter another word. She looked somewhat dejected.


    Shi Fengju first found it strange, but he soon understood that his words seemed to have mocked those families of schrs, which was making his wife ufortable.


    Shi Fengju felt apologetic, but he did not know how he should exin himself. As such, he halted her before saying with a smile, ¡°The plum blossom flowers bloom beautifully this year. Since we¡¯re here, let me break a few branches and put them in a vase for you.¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head and said with a smile, ¡°Why spoil the plum blossom flowers that bloom so beautifully here? These flowers are only beautiful when they¡¯re in the garden, unlike flowers like the rose or lily, they¡¯ll only lose their elegance and grace if you ce them in the house!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and asked, ¡°You like roses and lilies? There should be a number of those in our greenhouse. I will have someone to send a few to Ning Garden!¡±


    Sang Wan giggled before scolding him, ¡°For something like that, there¡¯s no need for any more trouble! I have already assigned the flowers to be ced at various ces in the household. Once the month is almost over, most of them should be readied and ced! If another order were to be passed down by you, how would the gardener go about it? Those who don¡¯t know might think that it¡¯s my idea!¡±


    Shi Fengju frowned slightly as he grumbled, ¡° Why do we have to be so concerned about taking things from our own household? We are bing more like outsiders while the outsider is bing more and more like the opposite!¡±


    Sang Wan knew that he was referring to Ren Zhixian again. She went and held his hand before saying gently with a smile, ¡°This isn¡¯t about me being concerned. It¡¯s about respecting the elders. If their houses are not yet decorated with flowers, our house naturally shouldn¡¯t be too. Plus, I¡¯m the one managing the household, I have to be fair and impartial so that others will follow suit. Outsiders will always be outsiders; they can never be the master! Besides, why should we lower ourselves to that person¡¯s level!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled as he went in to pinch her cheek, ¡°This Young Mistress is right, there¡¯s no point in lowering ourselves to his level!¡±


    ¡°Stop, your hands are cold!¡± Sang Wan was startled and she leaned away to avoid his hand. Deep down, she was relieved that those who were present were her trusted aides.


    Shi Fengju was insistent on pinching her cheek. He smiled, ¡°Is it? It¡¯s obvious that your face is the colder one!¡± While the two were enjoying themselves, they suddenly heard a cough behind them. Gu Fangzi¡¯s soft voice gently followed, ¡°Big Cousin, Sister Sang Wan!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s body stiffened, so did her smile as she slowly turned her head around. She saw Gu Fangzi in a white dress and cloak moving towards them with Lan Xiang. She greeted Sang Wan and Shi Fengju gracefully, ¡°Big Cousin, Sister Sang Wan, what a coincidence!¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but cast a nce at Sang Wan and sighed in his heart. He faced Gu Fangzi and nodded his head before asking dully, ¡°Why are you out here in this cold day?¡±


    Gu Fangzi smiled sweetly and softly said, ¡°Big Cousin, thank you for the concern. There¡¯s no need to worry, I will take good care of myself! Being cooped up in the house for so long, I just wanted to take a walk but ended up here unexpectedly! Big Cousin and Sister Sang Wan sure are refined and elegant!¡±


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing, hurry up and go home. We should leave too!¡± Shi Fengju was speechless in his heart. How did he not notice in the past that she was someone who takes criticism for herself and reassures herself by nature? Every word of hers always found their way to him and she would even do it on purpose in front of Sang Wan!


    ¡°Right,¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and said, ¡°Sister Sang Wan is frail and may freeze in this cold, it¡¯d be best to return early! Big Cousin, can you do me a favor?¡± Gu Fangzi faced Sang Wan and smiled gently as she spoke, ¡°Sister Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t mind, right?¡±


    Sang Wan was full of disgust and her heart was full of anger without a reason. Hearing her, she looked askance at Shi Fengju from the corner of her eyes with what seemed to be a smile. She shook her head and smiled at Gu Fangzi, ¡°Go ahead, I¡¯ll be going off first!¡±


    Shi Fengju held her hands tightly without any hesitation to prevent her from leaving. He faced Gu Fangzi and said, ¡°What is it!¡±


    Shi Fengju was furious at heart. Gu Fangzi really did not deserve to be treated well. How dare she anger Sang Wan in front of him. In the past, he did not have Sang Wan in his heart, so he naturally would not spare a thought for her. At that thought, he felt guilty for that and could not imagine the amount of unfairness Sang Wan had faced in the past.


    In that moment, Gu Fangzi felt unhappy. She did not expect her big cousin to not even give her a chance to speak to him alone! He held tightly onto Sang Wan¡¯s hands in front of her, which clearly exined everything to her! In his heart, Sang Wan was the most important! He did not wish to let Sang Wan suffer from any grievance!


    Cold as the weather might be, Gu Fangzi¡¯s face turned pale, but she smiled, ¡°Actually, it isn¡¯t anything much. I just spotted a plum blossom flower that bloomed beautifully and wanted Big Cousin to pick it for me to put in a vase. Big Cousin is best at it; the branches picked in the past year was excellent. The shape was wonderful and it did not wither for half a month! Big Cousin, can you help me again!¡±


    Sang Wan did not wish to hear anymore. She could not help but struggle to free her hand, but Shi Fengju¡¯s grip tightened. She raised her gaze and looked at him unhappily but he was not bothered.


    ¡°You are still in your mourning period so it¡¯s best not to have it in your house now. You should hurry up and go back! We should be going back too!¡± Shi Fengju pulled Sang Wan and walked away right after.


    Sang Wan twitched her lips but she did not say anything as she let him pull her away.


    Gu Fangzi was stupefied as she stared nkly at the two figures leaving while being close to each other. In the moment, her world felt empty! She was that lonely and miserable person, someone who no one would value or miss!


    He rejected her in front of Sang Wan and was even unwilling to help her with a matter so small! Was he trying to affirm his feelings to Sang Wan? Gu Fangzi felt pain in her heart like never before, to an extent that she could not even fool herself!


    She seemed to have really lost him! She had lost to Sang Wan! All her years of rtionship with him could notpare to the half a year since Sang Wan entered the household! How could she be resigned to that fact!


    Lan Xiang was worried and nced at Gu Fangzi. Her missy looked pale and malevolent. She quickly went to hold her arm and said softly, ¡°Missy, let¡¯s return as well!¡±


    Gu Fangzi remained silent as she turned and left for Peony Park quietly. Unable to hold herself back, she raised her head to gaze at the forest of brightly-colored plum blossom trees as her heart surged with anger: Mourning! Again with the mourning!


    Unless she was a fool, she would not believe in it again. It was clear that that was just his excuse!


    Sang Wan finally managed to free her hand from Shi Fengju, but his warmth still lingered on her hand.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju turned his head to look at her before saying gently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will properly handle what I promised you.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sang Wan forced a smile as she raised her gaze, ¡°I didn¡¯t say I don¡¯t believe in you!¡±


    Shi Fengju was relieved and eximed with a smile, ¡°But you weren¡¯t happy just now. I thought you were angry with me.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face stiffened slightly, and she said dully, ¡°I¡¯m not angry, my heart just felt ufortable!¡±


    Shi Fengju was d when he heard her. He grabbed her shoulder gently and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to feel ufortable with things that don¡¯t matter. My good Sang Wan, your husband will only feel distressed!¡±


    Sang Wan blushed as she gently pushed away his hands and said unhappily, ¡°What are you doing! Others will see us!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and released his hand. The two returned back to Ning Garden together.


    Sang Wan just had grilled meat with the rest of the sisters and was feeling full. Seeing the table full of dishes once the servants had finished serving, she sat by the side to apany Shi Fengju and to help him pick some food from time to time. However, she did not eat at all.


    Shi Fengju said with concern, ¡°You women are too much. How could you be so boorish; to have eaten so much grilled meat? Be careful not to get a stomachache!¡± As he said, he ordered the servants to simmer a bowl of red dates in porridge with an earthenware pot and serve it to her when done.


    His actions warmed Sang Wan¡¯s heart. As the small bowl of porridge went into her stomach, she felt better and that small amount of unhappiness dispersed as well.

 Chapter 178 - Completely Refused

    <h4>Chapter 178: Completely Refused</h4>


    The two went on to talk in the warm room. Sang Wan began to share her grievances, ¡°It isn¡¯t a problem to prepare New Year gifts for the Ren family¡¯s elders, but what if Big Sisteres and asks me about the gifts for Big Brother-inw¡¯s friends, what should I do!¡±


    Shi Yumei did not dare to prompt her mother and brother to do so, but she was bold and confident when it came to an ¡°outsider¡± like her. If Shi Yumei was able to force Sang Wan into agreeing, then Wang Shi and Shi Fengju would not be able to say anything.


    Shi Fengju frowned, ¡°Didn¡¯t Big Sister ask you to wait for her in the house? Let¡¯s order someone to call for her! I will talk to her myself! Big Brother-inw is getting out of hand and Big Sister too. We are in our own household, but we are being taken advantage off!¡±


    ¡°That will be for the best! No matter how bad of a person Big Brother-inw is, he¡¯s still Big Sister¡¯s husband. If he insisted on it, Big Sister would have no choice but toply!¡± Sang Wang was not worried about his grumbling as he could do so after all. However, she could not go along with him! What she cared about was being finally free from the trouble, so she instructed Liu Ya, ¡°Send someone to Jiao Garden and invite Eldest Missy over,¡± She nced at Shi Fengju and continued, ¡°If she asks whether Lord is around, answer with a ¡®no¡¯.¡±


    Liu Ya gave a nce at the quiet Shi Fengju and epted before retreating.


    Sure enough, Shi Yumei asked if Shi Fengju was there. Upon hearing that he was not, she immediately put on her cloak and brought a few servants with her. She was worried that if she was even a second too slow, it would be toote; her brother would be back and that would be a disaster!


    Shi Yumei did not expect Shi Fengju to be present with Sang Wan inside the warm room when she arrived.


    ¡°Why is Second Brother here too!¡± Shi Yumei was so shocked that her face turned pale as she promptly frowned and cast her gaze at Sang Wan, furious at her for this situation.


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and invited her to take a seat before saying, ¡°I just came back and heard from Sang Wan that Big Sister had some problems. As a brother, I have to care for my big sister! Big Sister, please tell us!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Big Sister. If I can be of any help, I¡¯ll do my best.¡± Sang Wan also added.


    How am I supposed to say it? Shi Yumei mumbled and the smile on her face stiffened.


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± A hurt look shed across Shi Fengju¡¯s face as he said bitterly, ¡°Is Big Sister still angry at me for not giving you face this morning at Mother¡¯s ce? Big Sister is bing estranged from me!¡±


    ¡°No such thing!¡± Shi Yumei panicked. Her thoughts were jumbled now so how could she still hide it from them? And so, she just spoke, ¡°Actually, it¡¯s about the matter this morning, Second Brother, can you help your big sister this once! Your big brother-inw¡¯s friends... he says he can¡¯t have them have a low opinion of him. If he doesn¡¯t send them New Year gifts, they will think that he looks down on them, and it will hurt his reputation!¡±


    Shi Fengju only smiled and said, ¡°Brother-inw words don¡¯t seem to be right. Just think about it, Big Sister, both of you have already sold all your property at Mengxian, would Big Brother-inw¡¯s friend not know that he is currently residing in our household? Where would he get the money to buy them New Year gifts? If he really were to send gifts over, he will instead be a joke to others! He will beughed at for using his inws to act prestigious. If an educated person does not have a lofty and unyielding character, then what is he capable of! That will really hurt his reputation!¡±


    Shi Fengju sneered in his heart. Reputation? Does he still have reputation to keep? Shi Fengju still remembered the trip on August the fifteen. How the people from Mengxian described his big brother-inw, Shi Fengju was clear about it! He was too embarrassed to listen or even mention it, yet he still dared to speak about ¡°reputation¡±!


    Shi Yumei was stumped; she was at a loss of words to refute him. She could not possibly say that her husband relying on his inws to boost his reputation was something to be proud of and worth unting, right?


    ¡°Second Brother,¡± Shi Yumei forced a smile, ¡°No matter what, there¡¯s a need for favors and gifts between friends. If not, their rtionship will be gone! How about, you take it as giving me a loan; you can deduct the amount from our allowance next month, how about it?¡±


    Isn¡¯t the monthly allowance still money from our Shi family? Shi Fengju was betweenughter and tears, but Sang Wan could not help but pity Shi Yumei. If she had to marry such a brazen and proud husband, she would rather be nun!


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Shi Fengju said firmly, ¡°Can those people even be considered as friends? Those who do not abandon you when you¡¯re in a crisis and take the initiative to help you are considered true friends! When both you and Big Brother-inw were in debt, did those people take the initiative to help, even by a little? Rather, they cleaned his Four Treasures of the Study from his hands! Brothels, taverns, renting of site for so called discussions, they had family backings and jobs, but they did not fork out any money and always had Big Brother-inw pay for them. Big Sister, did the both of you forget about that? Do you still regard such people as friends? Even giving offerings to the ancestors aren¡¯t as outrageous as this! In my opinion, Big Brother-inw turning out the way he is now definitely has something to do with them. Big Sister, you have to have the courage to persuade Big Brother-inw; don¡¯t let him continue to remain a fool anymore! Big Brother-inw would be better off without those so called ¡®friends¡¯!¡±


    Shi Yumei sighed, ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t understand your reasoning! But your big brother-inw¡ª¡ªIt¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know him. He is stubborn! He deeply believes that those people are his friends, and when I try to persuade him, he would reprimand me with words like ¡®that is the view of a woman¡¯ and ¡®Keep quiet if you don¡¯t know anything¡¯. Second Brother, take it as doing a favor for your Big Sister, please! In any case, we are far from them now, those people can no longer urge your big brother-inw to do anything else, so take it as buying some peace!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister,¡± Shi Fengju had an indescribable feeling within him. He was feeling both angry and sorry for her, and said dully, ¡°You can¡¯tply and let Big Brother-inw do as he pleases anymore! Big Sister, it¡¯s not that your brother doesn¡¯t want to spend the money. If it were spent on other things, I will not say a word about it. But for things like these, I cannot allow it! What those people are, I don¡¯t even have to ask around in Mengxian to know! I don¡¯t think Big Sister is unaware of it, right? Let me say a few unpleasant words right here. Right now, Big Brother-inw hasn¡¯t even passed his examinations and be an official, yet he dares to treat you and our family any way he likes even when he is staying in our household. In the future, if he actually seeds, think about how he will treat you then! Big Sister, you cannot keep on giving in to him!¡±


    Shi Yumei was stupefied and her mind went nk. She thought for a while and sighed before forcing a smile, ¡°I know that you care for me and I understand your words, but it¡¯s just that¡ª¡ªHaiz, forget it! You¡¯re right, I cannot let him have his own way anymore! It¡¯s right to separate far from those people in Mengxian! Second Brother, I won¡¯t disturb you anymore, I¡¯ll be heading back first!¡±


    Shi Fengju seemed to have more to say, but he kept it to himself. Together with Sang Wan, they stood up and saw her off, ¡°Big Sister, take care!¡±


    Shi Yumei acknowledged. All of a sudden, her gaze fell on Sang Wan. She stared straight at Sang Wan¡¯s face and said, ¡°Next time if I¡¯m bored, I wille and find Sister Sang Wan to talk to. Sister Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t find me boring right?¡±


    It¡¯s not that I wouldn¡¯t dare to find you boring, but even more so that I can¡¯t afford to offend you! Sang Wan screamed of the suffering in her heart, but she smiled and said, ¡°Why would I, Big Sister is wee toe whenever you want!¡±


    Shi Yumei smiled and left.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Big Sister won¡¯t find trouble with you without a reason!¡± Shi Fengju gently patted his wife¡¯s back.


    Sang Wan smiled and shook her head as they sat on the bed, ¡°I treat her with respect so she won¡¯t do anything to me. Don¡¯t be angry, he¡¯s still our brother-inw no matter what, she¡¯s in a difficult position too!¡±


    Shi Fengju groaned: ¡°How can I be not angry! Where would you find such a shameless man! How did our family ept this kind of person!¡± Shi Fengju suddenly thought of Gu Jin and Sang Wan¡¯s second uncle and aunt.


    Sang Wan thought of them too. She smiled and said, ¡°Every family has their own problems; our family¡¯s problems are as such, other families surely have their own too. It¡¯s just that we do not know, nor can we understand! It¡¯s going to be New Year soon, so don¡¯t be angry anymore! It¡¯s inauspicious!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed at what she said and ced her in his embrace, ¡°I¡¯m lucky to have you, Sang Wan, I¡¯m starting to love you even more than before!¡±


    Sang Wan stiffened slightly then pried his hands away, ¡°It¡¯s still broad daylight and you are already being touchy again!¡±


    Shi Fengju said, ¡°You should know that I just endured a belly full of anger, can¡¯t you console me for once! Don¡¯t worry, whichever daring servant dares toe in, I will skin her!¡±


    Sang Wan giggled before pouting and making a wry face at him, ¡°Lord¡¯s harsh words make you seem angry, aren¡¯t you worried that you might scare others!¡±


    ¡°Did I scare you? Then Lord willpensate you...¡± Seeing her delicate appearance, Shi Fengju¡¯s heart was swept away. He held her even tighter and lowered his head to kiss her lips. Sang Wan¡¯s body and mind trembled as she subconsciously let out a delicate moan


    While the two of them were enjoying their time together, Shi Yumei was on her way back to Jiao Garden. Looking at the entrance in front of her, she could not help but get a headache.


    She feigned a calm expression as she entered the house. But before she even spoke, she heard Ren Zhixian¡¯s deadpan and authoritative voice, ¡°Has it been settled? Did you remember what I told you to say; surely you did not miss out on any of it right? The Four Treasures of the Study must be an antique, the painting and calligraphy must be from famous people and not just anymon one! The incense burner must be simple, elegant, and small, not the big ones that are too heavy; those are a joke to send it as gifts. Don¡¯t forget to add in a box of good incense, chinese eaglewood or plum blossom wood are fine, but don¡¯t send those poor quality ones! That will be all. Oh, and they won¡¯t mind clothing and food, but they won¡¯t value thosemon ones! Ai, why are you looking at me like that? Did you hear what I just said? Did you pass it down clearly to your sister-inw? Don¡¯t make her buy the wrong one or we¡¯ll have to trouble her to make an exchange!¡±


    Shi Yumei did not feel it previously, but after hearing what her second brother said and seeing her husband behaving in such a manner, she felt ashamed, angry, guilty, and hurt: Just what kind of a husband had she married!


    Even though they were his inws, based on his instructions and the way he gave out his instructions, it was clear that he had made himself seem like the master of the household! Even she felt ashamed, yet he still showed an expression that seemed as if nothing was wrong!


    Shi Yumei snorted coldly as she sat down with no trace of politeness. She ordered Cui Zhu to pour the tea and slowly drank a few mouthfuls. Seeing her husband¡¯s face turning colder by the minute, she slowly put down the cup and took out her handkerchief to wipe the corner of her mouth before saying inly, ¡°I did not tell her.¡±


    ¡°What did you say!¡± Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression turned ugly in an instant.

 Chapter 179 - Cui Zhu

    <strong>Chapter 179: Cui Zhu</strong>


    ¡°I didn¡¯t tell my sister-inw!¡± Shi Yumei raised her voice before saying coldly, ¡°Lord, please wake up. This is the Shi Household, not Ren. Those worthless friends of yours¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Ren Zhixian eximed, interrupting her words as he pointed at her and scolded, ¡°Are you lecturing me? Is this how your family raised you? How dare you talk back to your husband as a wife!¡±


    ¡°You asked and I replied, how is that talking back?¡± Shi Yumei got angry too.


    ¡°Just listen to yourself, if that¡¯s not the case, then what is!¡± Ren Zhixian mmed the table angrily and coldly said, ¡°Don¡¯t give me all that nonsense! In the end, all of you are just looking down on me with your snobbish eyes. All of you despise me because I¡¯m poor, huh! Wait until I am sessful, I will be waiting to see all your faces! Don¡¯t think you¡¯re amazing just because you¡¯ve got some stinky money! If you hate to part with your money, then I won¡¯t demand any from you! Hmph, I¡¯ll go and buy them myself!¡±


    ¡°Lord!¡± Shi Yumei said angrily, ¡°Which one of them treated you as a friend? If they did, would any of them not know that you are currently lodging with your inws? We are already broke; if they truly are your friends, then would they really be concerned about receiving New Year gifts from us?¡±


    Hearing the word ¡°lodging¡± greatly hurt his pride. It made him feel a sense of inferiority from having to lodge under someone else¡¯s roof and he had a great urge to shout at Shi Yumei with confidence! However, no matter how firm or strong-willed he might be, he was indeed ¡°lodging¡± at someone else¡¯s house!


    And because of that, the shame fueled Ren Zhixian¡¯s anger further. Holding himself back as he disregarded those words, he said, ¡°What do you know? When did I say that my friends are concerned about my New Year gifts? Shouldn¡¯t friends send gifts to one another from time to time? What we are sending are our best regards and not about whether they are expecting gifts or not! This is the rtionship among friends! So what¡¯s the meaning behind your family¡¯s intention? Do they hope for me to be cut off from others and not have a single friend?¡±


    Only with those ¡®friends¡¯¡¯¡¯ tteries and fawning did he feel like he was a man and had retrieved a little of his pride as a man, so how could he lose them easily? The more dire the situation he was in¡ª¡ªhe definitely would not admit his present state. He wanted to put on a strong front to let them remember his good side!


    If he were to realize that the only reason why others were fawning over him was because he was foolish and easy to swindle, as well as him being part of the wealthy Shi family, his rage would only be boundless!


    ¡°You are one to talk!¡± Shi Yumei was angry too. She sneered and said, ¡°You always criticize my family without reason. In what way did my family offend you? What you eat, what you wear, what you use, and where you stay, even your books and the concubine who serves you, which of them weren¡¯t provided by my family? How dare you put on airs when you¡¯re enjoying what my family can provide! Let me tell you, since you are so capable, you can take care of your friends yourself. Who are you to instruct my brother? Did you take my brother as your errand boy!¡±


    Shi Yumei red angrily at him as she let out everything within her heart to her heart¡¯s content. After which, her mncholy vanished and she felt entirely pleasant!


    She knew that her husband was a prideful person and ever since returning to the Shi household, she had been following his orders carefully and coaxing him in fear of hurting his pride. She had endured all his whining andining about her family and helped fulfil any of his unreasonable requests! But now, she realized that it was all in vain! He would never be considerate towards her intentions. Rather, he became more demanding and harsh! Did he think about how difficult it would be for her who was stuck in between? Even if he was not considerate towards her, she was still his wife, and she did not dare toin. However, her mother and second brother were innocent, why should they be dragged into hisints!


    ¡°You, you! How dare you!¡± Ren Zhixian was startled. His face was pale and his fingers trembled as he pointed at Shi Yumei, but no words came out from his mouth.


    ¡°Do you and your family think that you are all amazing just because of some stinky money? What a joke!¡± Ren Zhixian sneered.


    ¡°It¡¯s not really anything amazing!¡± Shi Yumei sneered and said, ¡°But are you not using them?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Yumei words shot right at his heart! In his mind, there were only three words swirling inside: How dare her!


    ¡°Lord, Eldest Young Mistress! If there¡¯s anything, why not discuss it peacefully? Please don¡¯t fight anymore! It¡¯s inauspicious to do so near the New Year!¡± Cui Bao took advantage of the fact that she was favored by Ren Zhixian and stepped in to interrupt them when he was cornered by Shi Yumei.


    Ren Zhixian snorted. Finally a way out! He brushed his sleeves before throwing onest sentence at Shi Yumei, ¡°I can¡¯t be bothered to argue with you!¡± He then pulled Cui Bao before storming angrily into his study room.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s face turned grave as she stared at the sight of their backs without saying a word.


    ¡°Eldest Missy, please calm down!¡± Cui Zhu signalled for the servants to retreat as she poured a cup of tea and offered it to Shi Yumei.


    ¡°Cui Zhu,¡± Tears dropped unknowingly from Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes as she looked at Cui Zhu and said, ¡°You¡¯ve always been the best to me and we¡¯ve always been the closest! You once begged me not to make you a concubine to the same husband as me, and I promised you. But in the end, I failed to fulfil that! Cui Zhu, I have let you down!¡±


    Shi Yumei could not help but shed tears as she whimpered.


    ¡°Eldest Missy!¡± Cui Zhu¡¯s face was pale and tears gathered in her eyes without any warning. She quickly blinked her tears away before smiling, ¡°Eldest Missy, what are you saying! It¡¯s all in the past now! Besides, Eldest Missy has always been good to this servant. It¡¯s already a blessing that I can serve you for the rest of my life!¡±


    ¡°I have let you down, I¡¯ve really let you down!¡± Shi Yumei felt even more miserable when she heard Cui Zhu say that. She wiped her tears and said, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have been lenient! I¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Eldest Missy, please don¡¯t say anymore!¡± Cui Zhu gently shook her head as a faint amount of tears gathered in her eyes.


    Shi Yumei let out a long sigh as she held Cui Zhu¡¯s slightly cold hands and said, ¡°Wait until after the New Year, I will speak with Lord and ask him to promote you ****! That way¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Eldest Missy!¡± Cui Zhu¡¯s expression changed. Both her knees weakened and she knelt in front of Shi Yumei, ¡°Eldest Missy, please no! This servant begs of you, this servant does not want that!¡±


    ¡°Why!¡± Shi Yumei was puzzled. Cui Zhu now belonged to Ren Zhixian, promoting her would surely increase her authority. How could she be so foolish!


    Shi Yumei spoke gently, ¡°Don¡¯t be embarrassed, I really mean it from the bottom of my heart! That way, we can be considered sisters, and in the future when you give birth to a child, your position will not be any different from me! Cui Zhu, I really want topensate you properly!¡±


    ¡°This servant does not want that, this servant would rather serve Eldest Missy like this forever!¡± Cui Zhu became worried. Her face was pale and started kowtowing towards Shi Yumei while she pleaded.


    Shi Yumei was greatly taken aback, but she tried tofort her, ¡°Cui Zhu, I really wish topensate you! I have always been frank and outspoken; this is definitely not to test you! At present, this is the best thing I can do for you!¡±


    Cui Zhu was on the brink of crying out loud, and she pleaded, ¡°Eldest Young Mistress, this servant does not need anypensation. This servant begs of you, this servant just wishes for things to stay as it is! This servant begs of you!¡±


    Seeing that Cui Zhu was determined to refuse, Shi Yumei¡¯s heart was touched by her loyalty but also disappointed for letting her down. She sighed and said, ¡°If you are really unwilling, I will not force it on you, but you have to think carefully about it! It is easy to settle with him now since he¡¯s still not an official yet, but if he bes one in the future, it will be difficult to change the decision you¡¯re making now!¡±


    Cui Zhu said without any hesitation, ¡°This servant has thought it through. This servant just wants to serve Eldest Missy wholeheartedly! This is this servant¡¯s heartfelt words with no pretense!¡±


    ¡°Foolish girl!¡± Shi Yumei sighed again, ¡°Fine then, since you do not want it, I will not force you! You foolish girl, why are you so foolish? I feel like I am letting you down more and more!¡±


    ¡°Please don¡¯t say that, Eldest Missy!¡± Cui Zhu shook her head and said, ¡°You treat me like a real sister, I am able to feel it! This servant will serve you well and not leave your side!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say anymore, hurry up and rise!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s heart ached and she helped her up.


    Shi Yumei raised her head, only to see Cui Bao standing at the door with an expression of whether or not she should enter. Gripping tightly onto the shelf by her side, Shi Yumei¡¯s expression dulled and she said, ¡°Why are you here and not serving Lord in his study room? Speak! What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Mistress!¡± Cui Bao gracefully moved forward and greeted Shi Yumei with a smile, ¡°It was Lord who asked this servant toe... he has something to ask Eldest Young Mistress.¡±


    ¡°Speak!¡± Shi Yumei grunted.


    ¡°Right,¡± Cui Bao braced herself as she smiled and said, ¡°Lord wanted to ask Eldest Young Mistress about how much of the monthly allowance is left? He asked this servant to take it and pass it to him...¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that she choked then scolded, ¡°What does he want with the money? Did he mention it?


    Cui Bao seemed to be mumbling to herself as she was stuck between the choice of whether to tell or not. But being an impatient person, where would Shi Yumei find the patience to wait? She eximed angrily, ¡°Speak!¡±


    Cui Bao was startled and hurriedly answered, ¡°Lord said that he wanted to go out to the streets to buy some New Year gifts for his friends in Mengxian...¡±


    Cui Bao only conveyed Ren Zhixian¡¯s intention and did not dare to mention the unpleasant words that Ren Zhixian had said about her. The Eldest Missy of the Shi family today was not the same as before; she did not want to dig her own grave and ask for a scolding by telling her that!


    ¡°What!¡± Even though it was merely Cui Bao passing his intention, Shi Yumei¡¯s face had already became ashen. Her palms trembled slightly as she stared at Cui Bao coldly, ¡°Did he really... say that?¡±


    This is my husband, this is my husband! Shi Yumei was both angry and bitter as she kept repeating these words in her heart.


    ¡°Yes...¡± Cui Bao subconsciously withdrew her shoulder as she replied softly.


    Shi Yumei¡¯s face was extremely ashen, and she shouted at Cui Zhu, ¡°You, go and fetch that small box over!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Eldest Missy.¡± Cui Zhu acknowledged as she turned and entered the chamber. Not long after, she returned with a half-foot long wooden box and stood beside Shi Yumei.


    ¡°Pass it to her!¡± Shi Yumei didn¡¯t have the slightest inclination to look and directly asked her to pass it to Cui Bao, ¡°The rest of the money from the monthly allowance is all here, tell him to do as he deems fit!¡±


    Cui Bao did not dare to speak out of turn. She epted the box and left promptly.


    Shi Yumei let out a long sigh as she waved her hand lethargically and said, ¡°You can go now! I want to be left alone for a while!¡±


    Cui Zhu looked at her worriedly but left quietly.

 Chapter 180 - I’ll Buy Them Myself

    <strong>Chapter 180: I¡¯ll Buy Them Myself</strong>


    Ren Zhixian felt that it was beneath his dignity to deal with money in person. Seeing Cui Bao bring the box over, he waved his hand and said with a look that showed that he did not care, ¡°Count how much there is!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Lord!¡± Cui Bao¡¯s eyes glimmered. Matters like counting money were her favourite task. Even though it was not her money, it still gave her a gratifying feeling as she counted!


    ¡°Lord, there is a total of eighty six silvers and four coppers!¡± Cui Bao quickly and efficiently counted the money and hid a few silvers when Ren Zhixian was not looking before reporting with a smile.


    ¡°Just this little!¡± Ren Zhixian, who was resting on the couch with his eyes closed, opened his eyes as he questioned her in disbelief, ¡°Did you really count properly?¡±


    Cui Bao¡¯s heart raced. She was afraid that he might have found out about the silvers she had hidden and she quickly nodded anxiously, ¡°Yes, this servant has counted properly. There is only so much. If Lord doesn¡¯t believe me, then Lord can count again!¡±


    ¡°Alright, Alright!¡± Ren Zhixian waved his hand impatiently. Eighty six silvers, this little amount of money would not even be enough for him to foot the bill in a restaurant in the past, so what could he do with such a small sum of money?


    Ren Zhixian got up and rushed back into another room. He forcefully pushed open the door, letting a gust of cold air in, which shocked Shi Yumei who was lost in her thoughts. Recognizing that it was him, she spoke with a bad temperament, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you! You almost scared me to death! There¡¯s only that much money left, and I did not keep any of it! You can do whatever you want with it!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was stumped and could not even question her. He had wanted to ask Shi Yumei if Wang Shi had given her any private allowance. A mother wouldn¡¯t be stingy, right? Surely there should be at least a few hundred silvers, right? But after giving it much thought, he felt that he could not lower his dignity in order to ask. His gaze swept across the furniture in the house, and just by his eyes, he could tell that the decorations and furniture were expensive. After all, he was born from a rich household to begin with. He could just sell a few and get a sum of money! But this was just as hard to bring up.


    He had a character to uphold!


    ¡°Where¡¯s Cui Zhu?¡± Ren Zhixian asked as he did not see her anywhere.


    Shi Yumei replied coldly, ¡°I wanted to be alone, so I asked her to leave!¡±


    Ren Zhixian snorted and sat down as he said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re right. We are lodging in your parent¡¯s home so we should be more tactful and not cause them trouble!¡±


    Shi Yumei brightened up, thinking that he had thought things through, but before she could speak, Ren Zhixian continued, ¡°So I have decided to sell Cui Zhu away! That way, we will have one less person to feed and can save some rations for the Shi Household!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Shi Yumei red up and stood up to shout, ¡°I dare you!¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I dare!¡± Ren Zhixian also became angry and he stood up while sneering at her, ¡°She is mine, and also a servant. Do I not have the power to sell her?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s heart shook coldly as she stared at Ren Zhixian in disbelief. She thought that he had sorted out his thoughts, but she was wrong! He was clearly doing this on purpose!


    He knew that her rtionship with Cui Zhu was the best, so he said so purposely in order to aggravate her.


    Shi Yumei was feeling aggrieved. She was so considerate towards him; she took care of him, empathized with him, and took care of matters that he could not be bothered to handle, but this was what she received in return.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare!¡± Shi Yumei gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Cui Zhu is a servant who follows me, you have no right to sell her! If you want to sell someone, sell your Cui Bao!¡±


    Ren Zhixian sneered, ¡°Your servant who follows you? Even you belong to the Ren family, let alone a servant! I will call for the middleman toe over right now, let¡¯s see what you can do about it!¡±


    Shi Yumei said angrily, ¡°Alright then! You can try and see if I, the eldest daughter of the Shi family, do not give my approval, who will dare to take my people away!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was taken aback and he red at Shi Yumei gloomily, ¡°Shi Yumei, don¡¯t you cross the line! I, Ren Zhixian, will not be trampled by you forever! Don¡¯t think that you and your family are amazing just because of some stinky money!¡±


    ¡°I have nothing to talk to you about!¡± Shi Yumei was too angry to get any angrier, ¡°Our Shi family has never looked down on you. It was you who wanted to think of it that way, don¡¯t force it on us!¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Ren Zhixian sneered, ¡°Food handed out in contempt and you still want me to be deeply grateful? So everything is my fault! Hmph! And you, if ¡°your¡± Shi family is so great, then don¡¯t ever think about stepping foot in our Ren family forever!¡± Ren Zhixian kicked over a chair beside him and walked away.


    Shi Yumei stared nkly within the empty house. It was undoubtedly warm like spring, but she felt shivers through her body.


    Ren Zhixian ced the silver he had in a cloth and kept it with him. He then ordered Cui Bao to retrieve and put on his cloak as he walked out of the Shi household in a fit of pique.


    He did not believe that he would not be able to survive without the Shi family! In this huge Qingzhou city, would he not be able to buy a few cheap yet fitting gifts?


    Ren Zhixian roamed the streets for a long while, gazing at the passing crowds, the big hanging crimsonnterns decorated with colored ribbons to give off a festive feel, the shops on both sides of the street with years of history, and started to feel miserable from the bottom of his heart. He suddenly felt discouraged and dejected.


    Very soon, his feelings took a drastic change into a limitless hate. The Shi family, it¡¯s all because of them! They watched me as I remain a down and out, shamed me, and treated me coldly! But wait until I be sessful, I will trample over them all the way into the mud!


    Ren Zhi Xian stomped his foot fiercely and snorted, he asked around for directions to the street with lots of antique, calligraphy, and painting shops before hiring a carriage to take him there.


    During the New Year, business was good for antique, calligraphy, and painting shops as most customers woulde to buy gifts for others. And so, many shops disyed their brightly colored, presentable, and good quality goods for potential customers to choose.


    Ren Zhixian still had still some understanding of his situation and did not go for any high end shops with a reputable history as he knew that he would not be able to afford even a piece of quality paper with the money that he had! However, a small and ordinary shop was not worth his time; even stopping for a moment in front of such shops seemed like a disgrace for himself!


    While picking a shop, he was almost at the end of the street and he realized that he could not carry on without choosing one to patronize!


    Ren Zhixian stood outside a shop for a long while before he finally entered it. It was a painting and calligraphy shop called Si Ya Tang.


    With one look, the shopkeeper could tell that his clothes and cloak were expensive. He hurriedly smiled and greeted Ren Zhixian politely, ¡°Young man, can I help you with what you¡¯re looking for? High quality Four Treasures of the Study, famous calligraphies and paintings; whatever it is, this humble shop has everything and will surely satisfy your demands!¡±


    Ren Zhixian subconsciously touched the location where he ced his money. There was a slight feeling of guilt within him and he couldn¡¯t help but be sullen and annoyed: When did I, Ren Zhixian, fall into this situation where I cannot open my mouth freely to buy what I want? Mengxian was so much better! Which store or restaurant there would not treat him like an ancestor and present their best goods to let him choose freely, and let him pay by credit?


    However, what he did not know was that the reason they had let him pay by credit was not because of his reputation, but because of the Shi family.


    ¡°Ai,¡± Ren Zhixian clenched his fist and let out a slight cough before he asked calmly, ¡°Is there any good quality Four Treasures of the Study? Take a few sets out and let me have a look.¡± He actually liked the painting of a maid with a hairpin and red plum flowers in the snow, but he knew that it was expensive with just a look; at least not something he could afford with the amount he had now.


    ¡°Ah, wonderful!¡± The shopkeeper said joyously and asked with a smile, ¡°May I ask whether they will be for self-use or as a gift?¡±


    ¡°As a gift,¡± Ren Zhixian replied, ¡°Bring out the better ones!¡±


    ¡°Oh! Is it for your friends? Rtives? Maybe even your elders or juniors?¡± The shopkeeper hurriedly smiled and asked, ¡°Young man, please don¡¯t mind my long windedness, but I¡¯ll be able to help you choose the most appropriate ones! Your reputation will definitely get a boost!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was originally getting irritated and about to re up, but after hearing what the shopkeeper said, he unknowingly stopped and nodded with a smile as he answered, ¡°It¡¯s for my friends, please choose the better ones for me!¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± The shopkeeper smiled and said, ¡°If it is for friends, we¡¯ve got three tiers: good, medium, and subpar. Should I pick the best tier for you?¡±


    Ren Zhixian wanted to ask how much the best tier would cost him, but he could not bring himself to ask. He vaguely nodded his head and asked, ¡°Does ite in a set? With the brush, ink, paper, and ink stone all included?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! There¡¯s also a packaging toe with it! This humble shop¡¯s packaging is impressive, you will be able to send it as a gift right after stepping out of here. It¡¯s both convenient, good value, and also presentable too! Young man, how about these two sets? If you¡¯re not satisfied, there are many other different designs for you to choose from!¡± As the shopkeeper spoke, he had already brought over two sets and ced them on the counter before opening it for Ren Zhixian to see.


    The packaging had a golden silk base, and it was partitioned into four spaces, just right for the four items that made a set. It lookedvish yet had a low-profile which greatly fulfilled the elegance that educated people were after.


    Seeing Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression, the shopkeeper knew that their business was more or less set in stone, so he smiled and asked, ¡°How about it? Are you satisfied with them? I¡¯m not sure how many sets you would like; we still have many other different designs!¡±


    ¡°En, not bad, it¡¯s not bad!¡± Ren Zhixian nodded his head vaguely, his hands on the counter subconsciously tightened and loosened repeated but he still could not gather himself together to ask for the price.


    The shopkeeper was slightly stunned for a moment and he secretly sized Ren Zhixian up from head to toe. Feeling puzzled, he thought to himself: is this man a scrooge? Definitely not! His clothing,plexion, and the presence he gives off doesn¡¯t seem like it! Or¡ª¡ª is he some scoundrel who¡¯s spending is controlled tightly? That cannot be so, if he were a scoundrel, he would be at a gambling house or going to brothels, he wouldn¡¯t havee here to this shop!


    ¡°Young man, do you want me to wrap them up and send them to your householdter? May I know which household you¡¯re from?¡± The shopkeeper smiled and said as he took an indirect approach.


    Ren Zhixian was pleased. That¡¯s right, when the gifts reached the household, would they not pay? Unless they want to sully their own reputation!


    ¡°Sure!¡± Ren Zhixian said delightfully, ¡°I want these two sets. Get me another four more of these but with different designs and send them to Qingzhou City¡¯s richest Shi householdter!¡±


    ¡°Shi household?¡± The shopkeeper was shocked. He hesitated and replied with a smile, ¡°May I ask if you are the Shi household¡¯s ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s face became stern and he groaned, ¡°What? Do I look like a cheat?¡±


    ¡°No, no! I do not mean that!¡± The shopkeeper hurriedly smiled and said, ¡°Listen! It¡¯s only that, you do not seem to be any of the three young master from the Shi family so that got me curious so I asked! Young man, please do not me me because the Shi family also has their own calligraphy, painting, and tools shop, so why would you¡ª¡ªwould youe all the way here to my shop?


    Seeing that there was also no servant with him, the shopkeeper became even more suspicious.

 Chapter 181 - This Is Your Bill

    <strong>Chapter 181: This Is Your Bill</strong>


    Under the shopkeeper¡¯s suspicious gaze, Ren Zhixian felt very annoyed. However, he was the type of person to be meek and civil in public but a tyrant at home. In the Shi household, he always felt that everyone owed it to him; he treated everyone with a frown andined about them, but out in the public, he cared a lot about his reputation and always maintained an aloof attitude.


    Even though he was annoyed, he did not re up. Instead, he straightened his back and raised his eyes to give off an awe-inspiring presence as he said loftily, ¡°I have my own reasons, are you telling me that you are not doing this business with me?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no!¡± The shopkeeper thought in his heart that who in Qingzhou City would dare to impersonate someone from the Shi family, and which household does not have things that can¡¯t be said, hard to say, and would not be understood if told to others? As long as there¡¯s business, whatever the reason, who cares!


    ¡°Then I shall send them to the Shi householdter?¡± The shopkeeper smiled and said.


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Ren Zhixian nodded his head with satisfaction.


    The shopkeeper thought about it and summoned his courage to ask again, ¡°May I ask how to address you? We need someone to ept and sign the goods when we deliver it, don¡¯t we?¡±


    Ren Zhixian did not want to say it at first, but he was afraid that the shopkeeper might not be able to exin the situation properly and the Shi family would not ept the bill. If that were to happen, wouldn¡¯t it be terrible? As long as the items were sent to the gate and the Shi family knew those were his, would they refuse only to end up tarnishing their reputation? He said inly, ¡°My surname is Ren, you can just mention that they¡¯re for Master Ren!¡±


    ¡°Oh, Master Ren! I¡¯ll remember it!¡± The shopkeeper nodded his head.


    ¡°Send those soon and don¡¯t dy for too long!¡± Ren Zhixian urged again as he turned and left the shop.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± The shopkeeper responded loudly. Not daring to dy the order, he ordered for the items to be packed immediately. They arrived at the Shi household almost at the same time as when Ren Zhixian did.


    ¡ª¡ª


    The entire Shi household referred Ren Zhixian as ***** , so when the servant received word that the items were for ¡°Master Ren¡±, it took him awhile to guess that those were for Ren Zhixian. He quickly smiled and thanked the courier before epting the items.


    However, the courier avoided the gatekeeper and said, ¡°Thankfully it¡¯s here. Master Ren hasn¡¯t paid yet; this is the bill. Please check if¡ª¡ª¡±


    Hasn¡¯t paid yet? The gatekeeper had the most interactions with people on a daily basis and had heard many tales and fables about his Shi Household¡¯s Eldest Missy¡¯s husband which made him despise him. Right now, someone had arrived at the gate of the Shi Household. The gatekeeper did not dare to recklessly handle the situation for fear of harming the reputation of the Shi Household. Thus, he smiled and said, ¡°How about this. I¡¯ll take the bill first while you sit here and wait for a while!¡±


    The courier naturally did not have any objection and passed the bill to the gatekeeper.


    The gatekeeper took the bill and went straight to Head Servant Yu before telling him the gist of the situation.


    ¡°How can there be such a thing!¡± Head Servant Yu¡¯s eyebrows creased immediately after listening.


    Young Mistress had already given the instructions this morning to prepare New Year gifts for that person¡¯s elders, so why would he buy so many Four Treasures of the Study out of nowhere? Head Servant Yu nced at the bill: nine hundred silvers!


    He sure ain¡¯t modest! Head Servant Yu twitched his mouth and folded the bill in his hand before instructing, ¡°Wait here, I¡¯ll go and ask Young Master what to do about this!¡± He did not dare to make the decision to withdraw such arge amount of money from the household ount! Shi Fengju had always been strict about the household ount. Other than himself and Sang Wan, no one had the authority to withdraw from there.


    Head Servant Yu hurried over to Ning Garden1. Sang Wan was not present but Shi Fengju was. After hearing from Head Servant Yu and seeing the bill in his hand, Shi Fengju¡¯s face turned cold. He did not even have the energy to be angry.


    It seemed that the Shi Household had been treating that man too well. There were definitely those in the world he could not bepliant to else they would look down on others! To think that such a shameless behavior was possible!


    If this matter were to be ignored, then there would be trouble in the future! In no time, the people in Qingzhou City will know that the one who bought things on credit was the Shi family¡¯s ****, and the reputation of the Shi family would be ruined!


    Shi Fengju returned the bill to Head Servant Yu and simply said, ¡°Since this bill is for Master Ren, then send it to him!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Master!¡± Head Servant Yu understood tacitly. He bowed and withdrew.


    Ren Zhixian was thinking highly of himself in his study room. Just at the thought, heughed in his heart: Weren¡¯t they not willing to part with a few silvers? Then I¡¯ll purposely not let them have their way! Hmph, unless the Shi family wants to keep their money and not their reputation, they will surely fork out the money!


    Ren Zhixian was happy and proud of himself for being smart. He pictured Shi Fengju¡¯s sullen and irritated face as he had no choice but to give in, and felt very pleased with himself! Hearing that Head Servant Yu was requesting for a visit, he immediately thought that his items had arrived, so he immediately ordered the servant toe in.


    Head Servant Yu pushed the door open and entered. Ren Zhixian blinked his eyes upon seeing Head Servant Yu¡¯s empty hands. He looked behind him, but there were no servants behind him, so he asked in astonishment without any thought, ¡°Where are the items?¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± Head Servant Yu stared nkly as he did not seem to understand.


    ¡°Where are the items that I bought!¡± Ren Zhixian said impatiently, ¡°Aren¡¯t you here to deliver them to me?¡±


    ¡°Oh, they¡¯re here!¡± Head Servant Yu smiled and stepped forward to present the bill with both hands.


    This time, it was Ren Zhixian¡¯s turn to be dazed as he looked at the piece of paper nkly. He took it suspiciously, and his expression distorted upon seeing it. He red at Head Servant Yu and questioned coldly, ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this!¡±


    But why would Head Servant Yu be afraid of him? Head Servant Yu smiled and said calmly, ¡°Please hear this old servant out. The courier waiting at the gatehouse asked to pass this to ¡°Master Ren¡±. He mentioned that ¡°Master Ren¡± had bought a few sets of Four Treasures of the Study, and this old servant understood that they should be yours, so I¡¯vee to deliver this to you personally!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was so angry that he copsed backwards as he said coldly, ¡°Why would you send it to me? Why didn¡¯t you send it to the ount office first?¡±


    Head Servant Yu smiled and said, ¡°That courier indicated that the items were for ¡°Master Ren¡±, so of course the bill should be sent to you! The ount office only ept bills from the household. As for this, they will not ept! Please see if you would like to personally pass the courier the silvers yourself or you could pass this old servant the silvers and I¡¯ll do it in your stead. The courier is still waiting at the gatehouse!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was gloomy and remained silent. He thought in his heart that if he had the money to pay, would he have waited until now to pay? Even a servant from the Shi household dared to show me attitude! This ce can no longer be stayed in any longer!


    ¡°It seems to me that you might want to go personally, then this old servant shall leave first!¡± Seeing that Ren Zhixian had not said anything for a while, Head Servant Yu tactfully greeted to take his leave.


    ¡°Hold up!¡± Ren Zhixian said coldly, ¡°Where is Shi Fengju? Is he at home?¡±


    Head Servant Yu felt somewhat ufortable from the way Ren Zhixian addressed his young master, and turned around to ridicule him with a long face, ¡°What are you asking? This is the Shi Household; my young master¡¯s home. If Young Master isn¡¯t here, then where would he be?¡±


    His words clearly meant that his young master was the owner and Ren Zhixian was the outsider, so an outsider better not be rude! Ren Zhixian was so furious that he felt dizzy. He eximed, ¡°Since he¡¯s at home, pass this bill to him! Take it that I am loaning a few hundred silvers from him as a brother-inw. In the future, I¡¯ll pay him back with interest! I¡¯ll write him a debt contract immediately!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was peeved and grinded the ink to write while thinking to himself: Don¡¯t think that just because you¡¯ve some stinky money, you¡¯re better! I¡¯ll borrow from you then, you can¡¯t possibly refuse right? I¡¯ll throw this contract in your face and see if you¡¯ve the face to sign it!


    Ren Zhixian thought that his move would be a p on Shi Fengju¡¯s face, and was feeling happy about it. Never would he have thought that Head Servant Yu would reply otherwise, ¡°This bill was instructed by Young Master to be sent to you. This old servant feels that you should not waste your effort! Young Master said that if you really are short of Four Treasures of the Study, he would instruct people to get the best for you, he really does not understand why you would buy so many useless things for. You should know, my young master is a businessman, he will not pay for anything useless.¡±


    The hand Ren Zhixian was using to grind the inkstone stiffened. He raised his head and stared at Head Servant Yu for a long while before nodding, ¡°Good, very good!¡± He mmed the table and red at Head Servant Yu while shouting, ¡°This Shi household is trying to humiliate me on purpose, is it!¡±


    Head Servant Yu sneered and said, ¡°If you think that way, then it really is very disappointing! The food, clothing, amodation and transport, which one of them is a standard less than any wealthy family out there! You are an educated person, so shouldn¡¯t you know how to repay with kindness?¡±


    ¡°You dare lecture me!¡± Ren Zhixian yelled with disbelief, ¡°You are just a servant but you dare to lecture me! Believe me when I say that I have ways toy you off tomorrow!¡±


    Head Servant Yu scoffed and said inly, ¡°I am not a Ren family¡¯s servant, you seem to be overstepping your boundaries!¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s happening, why are you making a big fuss again!¡± Shi Yumei pushed the door open and entered with frown.


    ¡°Great! You¡¯re here!¡± Ren Zhixian pointed at Head Servant Yu andined, ¡°This old thing has no regard for rules; he has no respect for his master. You go and tell your mother toy him off tomorrow! What¡¯s the point of keeping a disrespectful servant!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Head Servant Yu was so angry that his moustache was twitching. He had been a servant in the Shi household ever since he was thirty years old and slowly rose to be a head servant. For twenty years, he had never been scolded like this by Old Mistress and all the young masters. However, he was scolded by an outsider today!


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting! Just what happened here?¡± Shi Yumei could not help but frown and look at Head Servant Yu apologetically.


    ¡°Eldest Missy,¡± Head Servant Yu suppressed his anger and told her about the issue. Afterwards, he cupped his hands and said, ¡°This servant has already delivered the bill here. Please deal with it as you deem fit! This servant still has matters to settle so I¡¯ll be taking my leave first!¡±


    What a person! If he stayed to argue with him any further, he would exhaust the remains of his old life here.


    Shi Yumei was both angry and ashamed. She heard that he had gone out with little more than eighty silvers and thought that his frustration would subside after going for a round outside, but who knew that his bad habits woulde up again!


    This was Qingzhou and not Mengxian. Shi Yumei shared the same thought as Shi Fengju, if they let this slide, wouldn¡¯t the consequence be terrible? If it implicated the reputation of her parent¡¯s household, how would she be able to live with the guilt?


    ¡°Head Servant Yu!¡± Shi Yumei hurriedly stopped Head Servant Yu. She took two steps forward and took the bill from the table before passing it to Head Servant Yu. She instructed with no trace of politeness, ¡°Pass this to the courier at the gatehouse and say that ¡°Master Ren¡± has something urgent and left the Shi household. Ask him to bring the items back with him! Also, pass these two silvers to him as a fee for the trouble!¡±


    Shi Yumei then took out a few pieces of silver.


    Head Servant Yu nced at Ren Zhixian. Seeing that his expression was dark and did not utter a word, Head Servant Yu took the silvers and the bill before leaving after he agreed.


    Stepping out of the door, he heard an intense dispute behind him. He could not help but sigh in his heart: Eldest Missy was so proud and brash in the past; who knew that she¡¯d fall to such a state today! The ups and downs of life really were hard to predict!

 Chapter 182 - You Mustn’t Say Such Words

    <strong>Chapter 182: You Mustn¡¯t Say Such Words</strong>


    Although the courier waiting at the gatehouse ended up with such a result after so long and was not pleased, he had no choice since the recipient was not present and could only return sulkily. Fortunately, there was a constion for him and his efforts did not gopletely to waste!


    Shi Fengju heard from Zhan Huan about the result and burst outughing. He waved his hand to signal Zhan Huan to leave, and felt even more delighted at the thought of what happened.


    Such a person should have been treated in such a way in the first ce! Thankfully Big Sister isn¡¯tpletely ignorant and knew when she should not give in.


    When Sang Wan returned and saw the delighted expression on Shi Fengju¡¯s face, she asked curiously with a smile, ¡°What made you so happy? Did a huge gold bar drop from the sky?


    Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°What is there to be happy about a huge gold bar dropping from the sky?¡±


    Sang Wan knew it was her slip of tongue and nodded, ¡°You¡¯re very right! To you, Lord, only a beautiful goddess descending from the sky is worthy of making you happy!¡±


    Shi Fengju proceeded to hold her hand andughed, ¡°What beautiful goddess? I already have one ¡ª¡ª cough, leave, the rest of you!¡± Shi Fengju chased everyone else away, including Liu Ya, while he was halfway through his words.


    ¡°I already have you, why would I still need some beautiful goddess!¡± Seeing that all of them had left, he quickly pulled her into his embrace and rubbed her slightly cool cheeks whilementing before giving her two pecks on her cheeks.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed and she gently pushed him. Flustered, sheined softly, ¡°Who would want to hear these sweet nothings from you!¡±


    Shi Fengju loved seeing her blushing face. As he watched her, he continued to say more sweet nothings to her, and that made Sang Wan¡¯s face blush even more and her heart beat faster. He finally released her from his embrace and told her about what he did to teach Ren Zhixian a lesson.


    Sang Wan could not help but find it funny too, and sighed softly, ¡°Luckily, Big Brother-inw referred himself as ¡®Master Ren¡¯ which had no link to the Shi family. Otherwise, your method of handling it would have definitely be gossip for others!¡±


    News fromrge households were always popr. Any smallmotion could be a major topic in the entire city.


    Shi Fengju smiled coldly, ¡°Even if he were to mention anything to link himself with our family, I would still handle it the same way! Just what is he thinking, since when has our family mistreated him? He remains unappreciative towards everything that we provide, and keeps going back to the vices that have cheated him of his family assets!¡±


    Sang Wan sighed gently and said, ¡°It can¡¯t be helped! I can only say that Big Sister is too pitiful!¡±


    Shi Fengju nced at her andughed, ¡°Heh, now this is a little strange. Big Sister had humiliated you so much, and you are angry at her, so why are you pitying her now?¡±


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes and said, ¡°By your words, should I be gloating over her misfortune behind closed doors and have a goodugh? One matter is not connected to another, of course I am mad when Big Sister humiliates me unless I¡¯m made out of wood. But she is a woman too, ai, marrying such a man, really ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes darkened, and she shook her head lightly. The worst fear of a woman is to marry the wrong man, just like herself in her past life. She had the most right to speak. Seeing Shi Yumei¡¯s state today, she couldpletely rte.


    Shi Fengju pulled his woman into his embrace and hugged her tightly. He lowered his head near her neck and said gently, ¡°Don¡¯t think too much; you only have to concentrate on being the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress. As your husband, I¡¯ll not let you down.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart melted from his words and she rested her hand over his hands that were around her before leaning back gently. Shi Fengju felt her gentleness and her dependence on him and was pleased. ¡°Sang Wan!¡± He kissed her by her ear and called out to her.


    ¡°Fengju,¡± Sang Wan said abruptly, ¡°There is something I know I shouldn¡¯t say, so if you think it isn¡¯t right, then forget that I ever said it!¡±


    ¡°Speak, I¡¯m listening.¡± Shi Fengju was slightly intrigued.


    Sang Wan hesitated for a moment, but still resigned herself and spoke softly, ¡°Nobody knows when Big Sister¡¯s worries will end. Wouldn¡¯t it be better to ask her for her opinion to sign a peaceful separation document!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s body shook and his eyes instantly widened.


    ¡°Separation?¡± Even though he resented Ren Zhixian from head to toe, but there was never once he thought of letting his sister go through a separation. A woman who had gone through a separation, even if she were from a prestigious family, would have a hard life and be despised by others. Basically, she would end up growing old and dying all by herself. Of course, there were a few exceptional cases of such woman remarrying and leading a good life.


    Sang Wan secretly regretted shooting her mouth off, but since the words were already out, she could only continue, ¡°You¡¯ve seen how Big Sister is like! It¡¯s better to be single than to have such a husband, at least there will be less things to worry about! Big Sister still hopes that Big Brother-inw will be an official, but from what I see, it will be better if he doesn¡¯t. Otherwise, with his personality and temper, Big Sister would only end up having a more difficult life! With the Shi family¡¯s background, Big Sister will surely be able to remarry into a good household. If her partner is dependable, even if she has to remarry as a concubine, she would still be better off than now!¡±


    The reason why Sang Wan had such a thought was entirely shaped by her painful experience from her previous life. She used to believe that her husband was her everything, and this fact was immutable. However, that everything of hers never once sheltered or blocked her from the rain; there was only endless torture! She was better off without it! If she were not able to have a proper life with him in this lifetime, although separation might not have been the best option, but she would definitely choose it! Only then could she secure a path to survival.


    Shi Fengju kept silent for a moment before he sighed and said, ¡°Only say this to me, and never mention this to Mother and Big Sister. Mother would never agree to it, and Big Sister would not be willing to do so.¡±


    Shi Fengju thought in his heart: What a naive woman, to even dare to voice out such a thought! Things wouldn¡¯t turn well if Mother and Big Sister were to hear this! Since time immemorial, only reconciliation is encouraged and never separation. Furthermore, she is her younger sister-inw. There would be no way for me to defend her if Mother decided to fault her for saying such imprudent words.


    Sang Wan was already regretting being too nosy. She secretly let out a sigh of relief upon knowing that Shi Fengju did not have any signs of ming her. She smiled and said, ¡°I only dare to say this in front of you! I am not so sick of living to have the guts to let Mother and Big Sister know! I am just speaking objectively about my view for Big Sister. Just take it as I have never spoken about this!¡±


    Shi Fengju read her words as her trusting him immensely and felt extremely happy. He smiled and said, ¡°I know you are kind-hearted; I won¡¯t me you! Actually you are quite right, just that,¡± Shi Fengju shook his head and said, ¡°It is still difficult! With my big sister¡¯s personality, telling her to be single isn¡¯t something she would be willing to do!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think it through thoroughly!¡± Sang Wan admitted her wrong quickly.


    ¡°Good advice jars the ears. I know you said so with good intentions, so don¡¯t take it to heart, okay?¡± Shi Fengju smiled and patted her. She smiled gently and continued to rest in his embrace.


    In a blink of an eye, it was almost New Year and the atmosphere of celebration was strong. Everyone in the Shi household was extremely busy. All the cleaning had been done and big rednterns with golden rims were hung on both sides of the corridors. When the sky turned dark, the servants lit up thenterns and the entire household was well-lit with the red festive lights. The flowers growing in the greenhouse were also ced at every ce within the household.


    In the courtyard of Ning Garden1, camelia flowers, cherry blossoms, osmanthus flowers, azalea flowers, small pots of hyacinth grass, cmus, rose and crabapple were nted on the side of the pavement. The sight was lovely as the flowers were blossoming and plentiful. In the house, there were many exotic nt species, such as the orchid flower, the scarlet kaffir lily, and peony flowers. Theyplemented thevish decorations and added vitality into the rooms.


    The interior and exterior of the house was also decorated brightly. Nobody knew where Shi Fengju obtained so many brilliant red roses which surrounded the corridors. In the house, there were also roses ced in vases on the tables which bloomed passionately.


    Sang Wan was momentarily taken aback. Shi Fengju asked with great interest, ¡°How about it? Do you like them? You mentioned that roses in vases were pretty, so I made them for you!¡±


    Sang Wan finally remembered mentioning it casually in the plum forest and her heart was filled with mixed emotions. She smiled and said, ¡°You really... are credulous! To do all this based on a smallment from me, this really is embarrassing for me! ¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled indifferently, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with spoiling my wife? These are bought by the florist outside and not from the greenhouse in the household, what¡¯s there to be afraid of! Do you like them?¡±


    Sang Wan was touched and nodded her head lightly to agree.


    Shi Fengju immediately felt that all his efforts had paid off, and he brought her to appreciate the beautiful rose ced in arge pink vase before giving a lightugh, ¡°I also bought many rose extracts, try them when you bathe and see if they smell good!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red and she said angrily, ¡°I won¡¯t use them!¡± She knew that he wasn¡¯t harboring any good thoughts.


    Shi Fengjuughed and did not continue to tease her, but his eyes continued to sh a suggestive look.


    At night when Sang Wan was about to take a bath, she could smell the strong scent of rose from the steaming hot water the moment she entered the bath house. Seeing the petals that were spread out above the surface of the bathtub, Sang Wan¡¯s face almost turned green, and she asked Liu Ya, ¡°Where did thise from? I don¡¯t remember asking for this.¡±


    Liu Ya said cheekily, ¡°This is Young Master¡¯s instructions. Young Master said that these few days must have tired Young Mistress out, so adding some petals can help to relieve the tiredness and help with cirction. Young Mistress, the water temperature is just right, so take your time to soak!¡±


    Sang Wan opened her mouth to speak but no words came out. Liu Ya had already closed the door and left with a cheeky smile. She had no choice but to remove her clothes and step into the bathtub. The strong flower scent, together with the hot steam, rose and was extremelyfortable. The petals rested on her shoulders, hands, and chests, surrounding her. She let out a sigh and gently closed her eyes as she rested by the edge.


    After soaking herself, she wrapped herself in a gown and returned to her room. Shi Fengju reclined against the wall and looked at her excitedly with a smile as his eyes sparkled. Sang Wan¡¯s face flushed and staggered.


    This person, really he is bing more and more¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Sang Wan,e over quickly! Let¡¯s lie down together!¡± Shi Fengju stretched his hand out towards her happily.


    Sang Wan gave him a grudging look as she walked towards him. Before she could sit down, she was hugged by his long arms and fell into his embrace.


    Sang Wan eximed in a low voice, and before she could recover, she was already trapped in his embrace. He lowered his head near her body and started sniffing her body, ¡°Let me smell if you smell good...¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s resistance was futile. After awhile, her face felt hot as she rested in his embrace without strength, andined, ¡°You, I knew you weren¡¯t harboring any good thoughts!¡±

 Chapter 183 - New Year’s Eve

    <strong>Chapter 183: New Year¡¯s Eve</strong>


    ¡°Whatever did you mean?¡± Shi Fenguughed and fastened himself around her. He looked deeply into her eyes, all the way until she blushed and lowered her head.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you are really beautiful!¡± Shi Fengju raised his hand and caressed her red cheeks tenderly. Looking into the pair of watery eyes as clear as spring water, he could not help but lower his head to kiss her.


    On the next day when Sang Wan woke up, her body was still feeling sore, and she moved little by little with great difficulty. Turning her head to look at the man beside her, she saw that he was already awake and was looking right back at her. As he met her eyes, he could not help but feel a sense of adoration and touched her head lightly, ¡°Finally awake?¡±


    Sang Wan gave him a vague re before shifting her head to the side without speaking.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡±


    Shi Fengju was momentarily stunned. He went to hug her as he chuckled to himself: Why is my dear wife so cute!


    New Year came in a blink of an eye. On the day of New Year¡¯s Eve, the household had to pay respect to the ancestors before noon. Sang Wan was already awake before the sky turned bright and was instructing the servants to open the gates to the altar, do the cleaning up, take the candles and oilmps, and wash the utensils from the store house. It was an extremely busy day, and the kitchen was preparing the offerings to the ancestors.


    When it was time, the entire family gathered inside the altar ce. After cing the offerings and the candles, the ceremony proceeded in a solemn manner. Since time immemorial, women were not allowed to give offerings to their ancestors. So once the preparations werepleted, Wang Shi, Sang Wan, and the rest left and waited in the room next door. As for the men, Second Old Master Shi led them to pay respect to their ancestors.


    Second Old Mistress Shi gazed out from the room and thought about her son who was still roaming outside and missing. Her eyes turned teary again but she quickly wiped them off with her handkerchief. Looking at Sang Wan, Shi Lian, and the rest, and then thinking about her own daughter-inw who was still seeking shelter in her parent¡¯s home, Second Old Mistress Shi felt more infuriated and promised to herself that she had to get her back after the new year!


    Once the ceremony was over, the entire family dispersed. Sang Wan was left behind to instruct the servants to tidy up the ce, and arrange for servants to watching over the altar on rotation. After giving a few more careful instructions to watch over themps, she headed to the main courtyard and reported to Wang Shi. After that, she started giving instructions for tonight¡¯s reunion dinner.


    The spring couplet, and the paper-cut decorations for the window were to be put up after paying respect to the ancestors. Every servant would collect them from a management servant and put them up happily. After awhile, spring couplets, the auspicious ¡®¸£¡¯ character and other New Year decorations were put up on every door, making the ambience in the household especially lively.


    When it was time for dinner, everyone naturally went to attend the reunion dinner at Wang Shi¡¯s ce. Because it was more festive to celebrate the new year together, everyone left early in order to get together. Shi Yuzhen, Shi Lian, and Shi Yulin and her sister, were ying board games, guessing word riddles, and having fun with one another. Wang Shi and her few sister-inws yed cards in a room while Shi Fengju and his brother, as well as his two uncles, were having a chat at a corner.


    The two youngsters, Shi Fengju and Shi Fenghua, were inquisitive by nature and were interested about the Sichuan culture. As such, they could not do without asking their third uncle a few questions about the ce. Third Old Master Shi looked highly upon his nephews and knew Shi Fenghua was taking the route of bing an official. Other than Sichuan¡¯s culture, he also revealed a little of his experience as an official. The uncle and nephews had a lot joy in their discussion. However, Second Old Master Shi was uninterested in their topic of discussion, and could not resist steering their attention to the birds and fish he kept. Without a choice, Shi Fengju and the others could only patiently let him continue before brushing the topic aside.


    As evening drew near, Sang Wan came over and informed everyone that dinner was ready. Everyone stopped what they were doing and got up to wash their hands.


    Wang Shi and her sisters-inw were having a great time. They ordered the servants to leave their cards as they were, and wanted to resume after dinner!


    ¡°Sang Wan, where is your big sister and big brother-inw? Order someone to invite them!¡± Not seeing Shi Yumei when Wang Shi cast a nce across the table, she grumbled, ¡°Yumei that child, I¡¯ve already told her about this in the afternoon! Why is her memory so bad!¡±


    Sang Wan could only concede, and was about to order someone to check on them. However, Shi Fengju saw Xiu Chun standing at a corner, and ordered, ¡°Xiu Chun, make a trip there and say that Old Mistress invites Eldest Missy and Young Master Ren over for dinner!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Master!¡± Xiu Chun bowed and left.


    Sang Wan met Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze and nodded with gratitude towards him. Anything that had to do with Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian still made her feel ufortable; it was better to send someone who belonged to Wang Shi as that would save her from Shi Yumei¡¯s cold look. If anything else were to happen today that were to make her mother-inw unhappy, then it would be her fault entirely as a daughter-inw.


    Shi Fengju smiled before calling Liu Ya over to give her a few instructions. Liu Ya nodded several times before rushing hurriedly to catch up with Xiu Chun.


    Not long after, Xiu Chun returned and reported back to Wang Shi with a smile, ¡°Old Mistress, Young Master Ren seems to have caught a cold and is not feeling well. He may not be able to attend. Eldest Missy is staying behind in Jiao Garden to care of him, so she will not be attending too!¡±


    ¡°Why is he so careless during the New Year!¡± Wang Shi creased her eyebrows without any suspicion before instructing, ¡°Have the kitchen send some dishes over to them, and check if his cold is very serious. If it is, then hurry up and get a doctor to prescribe some medication for him!¡±


    Xiu Chun went ahead to ry the instructions to the kitchen.


    While the entire household was having their reunion dinner, the atmosphere in Jiao Garden was tense. An argument between Shi Yumei and Ren Zhixian had happened again.


    Ever since he did not sessfully obtain the items from his shopping, he harbored even more resentment towards Shi Fengju and the entire Shi family. The day when Shi Fenghua finally returned, he had wanted to pull Shi Fenghua to his side. They talked about all sorts of things, with him showing off his knowledge in hopes of gaining Shi Fenghua¡¯s respect and admiration. That way, he could prove to Wang Shi and Shi Fengju that he, Ren Zhixian, was definitely a talented person! He also wanted them to personally beg him to help Shi Fenghua.


    However, why wouldn¡¯t Shi Fenghua know his true intentions? Because Ren Zhixian was his big brother-inw, he had to pay him a visit for the first two days without a choice. Following that, he refused to go. Even when Ren Zhixian sent someone to invite him, he would use different excuses to avoid going. Ren Zhixian became frustrated, and was secretly resentful that Shi Fenghua did not recognise his talent. He stopped trying to get closer to Shi Fenghua, and began to harbor even more resentment towards the Shi family.


    On the eve of New Year, Ren Zhixian undoubtedly knew that everyone was supposed to get together to have a reunion dinner, but he stubbornly refused to go and did not allow Shi Yumei to go as well. He purposely wanted to make things difficult and frustrate them. The unhappier they were, the happier he would be!


    No matter how Shi Yumei coaxed and begged, he refused to budge. Shi Yumei was extremely mad, but if he was not going to go, it would not be good if she went alone. As such, she sat inside the house grudgingly.


    When Xiu Chun arrived, the two inside the house just had a big argument.


    Sensing that the atmosphere in the house was not right, Xiu Chun did not speak out of ce. She ced both her hands at a side and smiled, ¡°Eldest Missy, Old Mistress invites you and Young Master Ren over for the reunion dinner!¡±


    Hearing Xiu Chun mention Shi Yumei first before him, it was obvious that the servant did not see him as the head of the family and was angry about that fact. He said indifferently, ¡°Go back and tell your old mistress that we are not part of the Shi family, so it will not be convenient to have a reunion dinner together, thank you!¡±


    Xiu Chun was ced in an extremely awkward position and she looked towards Shi Yumei beggingly.


    Ren Zhixian noticed her impudence from ignoring his words and became even more infuriated. He boomed, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear me? Leave now!¡±


    ¡°This servant, this servant will take my leave now!¡± Xiu Chun spoke no further as she did a quick bow before leaving. But before she left, she threw a meaningful nce at Shi Yumei.


    Shi Yumei got up and left as well,pletely ignoring Ren Zhixian¡¯s scolding. She asked, ¡°Is there something?¡±


    Xiu Chun smiled and said, ¡°Young Master said that if Young Master Ren¡¯s body is not feeling well, then it¡¯s fine for you and Young Master Ren not to go. The kitchen will send a few dishes overter.¡±


    Shi Yumei sighed thankfully and nodded, ¡°Second Brother has thought about this thoroughly. Go back and tell my mother that Young Master Ren has caught a cold so we won¡¯t be attending! I will apany my mother at ater time!¡±


    ¡°Understood, then this servant will head over first!¡± Xiu Chun obliged and left.


    Shi Yumei stood at the entrance as she stared dazedly at the red plum tree in the courtyard before returning into the house to face a cold and ufortable silence with Ren Zhixian.


    After awhile, the loud firecrackers sound could be heard, followed by theughter from the people gathered and the sweet aromaing from the dishes. Shi Yumei was secretly upset and depressed.


    Ren Zhixianughed coldly, ¡°Who are you making this face for? Nobody is pulling or stopping you. If you want to go, then go! Heng, if your family really had the heart to invite us over, they wouldn¡¯t just send a servant over and invite us in such a pdash manner!¡±


    Shi Yumei finally red up and thought in her heart: If not what? You¡¯re already staying in our household and not as a guest over here. Is it considered impolite to send someone to inform us? Or do you need my mother to invite you personally!


    ¡°Actually, you aren¡¯t wrong. We are the Ren family, and not the Shi family. We shouldn¡¯t turn up at all!¡± Shi Yumei looked coldly at him once and said expressionlessly.


    Ren Zhixian was stunned as he thought she would be jumping angrily. He was frustrated and thought to himself: this woman is getting more and more imprudent. Is it because this is her family¡¯s household and there will be someone supporting her? How dare she be more rebellious and disobedient! Really, what kind of family would produce such a daughter, this is so unreal!


    Not long after, the kitchen sent the dishes over. There were six dishes and one soup, and they were still steaming hot. ¡°Let¡¯s eat!¡± Shi Yumei said expressionlessly. Seeing how Ren Zhixian ignored her, she went ahead to sit at the table before ordering Cui Zhu to prepare the bowl, chopsticks, and to scoop her rice.


    Ren Zhixian red at her disgruntledly.


    Cui Bao tactfully said, ¡°Lord, it¡¯s the New Year, you should at least have your reunion dinner with Young Mistress! Don¡¯t let Young Mistress wait too long!¡± She went forward to hold Ren Zhixian¡¯s arm before leading him to the table.


    Ren Zhixian took the opportunity to praise Cui Bao appreciatively. Cui Bao is still so considerate towards me, it seems my affection for her didn¡¯t go to waste! She¡¯s so much better than Cui Zhu who behaves just like a dead log!


    Shi Yumei appeared indifferent, however, Ren Zhixian was insistent on making her angry in order for his heart to feel contented. Once he sat down and received the bowl of rice from Cui Bao, he pulled her over and said, ¡°You should sit too and have dinner together!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s chopsticks trembled and her face darkened, but she remained still.


    Cui Bao¡¯s eyes brightened with glee, but they instantly dimmed when she came to a realization. She quickly smiled and said, ¡°Lord, please don¡¯t make fun of me. Would a servant dare to sit at the same table as Lord and Young Mistress? That would be against tradition! Lord and Young Mistress, please have your dinner quickly else it¡¯ll turn cold!¡±


    Shi Yumei grunted but her expression turned slightly better. Luckily you know better!


    ¡°I make the rules! Where did such a traditione from!¡± Ren Zhixian insisted on making her sit. When he saw Cui Zhu still standing beside Shi Yumei, he scolded unhappily, ¡°Bring a chair over!¡±


    ¡°This servant does not dare! Please do not force this servant!¡± Cui Bao expression turned white and she fell to her knees.


    Ren Zhixian could behave recklessly, but not her! Her brain was still functioning properly: this is the Shi household!


    Making Shi Yumei lose her face in public, if the people from the Shi family got angry, Ren Zhixian was unlikely able to protect her!


    ¡°You!¡± Seeing how Cui Bao behaved, his scheme only ended up embarrassing him and he could only re at her. However, there was no way he¡¯d know what Cui Bao was thinking. He did not know that Cui Bao was afraid of the people from the Shi family, which was why she did not dare to obey him. Instead, he began to like her even more and felt that she was ¡ª¡ª really obedient and sensible!


    ¡°Hurry and get up, why are you kneeling during the New Year!¡± Ren Zhixian consoled gently, and helped her up by her arm.


    ¡°This servant gives thanks to Lord!¡± Cui Bao nced quietly at Shi Yumei who was still eating indifferently and let out a sigh of relief before smiling, ¡°Lord, please have your dinner quickly!¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Ren Zhixian nodded, and ordered Cui Bao to pick the dishes for him.


    Shi Yumei could not stand the sight anymore and ate a few more mouthfuls in a fit of pique before mming the chopsticks on the table. She got up and left together with Cui Zhu.


    Ren Zhixian stared at her back as she left and said angrily to Cui Bao, ¡°Just look at her! What is the meaning of this? Does she still see me as the head of the family!¡±


    ¡°Lord, please cool yourself down!¡± Cui Bao said with a smile, ¡°Lord, it¡¯s not auspicious to be angry during the New Year! Young Mistress might not be feeling well, so don¡¯t think too much! Young Mistress isn¡¯t normally like this!¡±


    Ren Zhixian sneered, ¡°You are wrong, she wasn¡¯t like this in the past. Ever since she came back to Shi Household, she felt that she had finally found a backing and does not see me as her husband anymore! Heng, she better not forget that she is part of the Ren family. Even if she dies, she will have to be buried together in our household¡¯s grave with no links to her Shi family! Her body is feeling unwell? I think it¡¯s her heart and mind!¡±


    ¡°Lord!¡± Cui Bao face turned white with panic, ¡°Please don¡¯t speak such words anymore! After all, why bother! You won¡¯t feel good about it, and neither would Young Mistress ¡ª¡ª ¡°


    Cui Bao thought resentfully: Don¡¯t you know that we¡¯re still on the Shi family¡¯s soil? Do words go through your mind first before you speak? The Shi family may not act rashly towards you, but won¡¯t a servant such as I end up being implicated? Are you trying to send me to my grave!


    ¡°Ai!¡± Ren Zhixian could not withstand the pitiful tears of a beauty; seeing the way Cui Bao behaved, his heart immediately softened and he could not help but hold her hands as he sighed, ¡°Cui Bao, Lord only has you who thinks about me! You are still the best, only you are concerned about me! There¡¯s no one now,e, sit down and have dinner with me!¡±


    Cui Bao nced around subconsciously and forced a smile, ¡°Tradition cannot be ignored. This servant will stand and have dinner!¡±


    Ren Zhixian was happy, and nodded with satisfaction, ¡°That¡¯s fine too! Come and eat! Have whatever you like!¡±


    ¡°This servant is very thankful towards Lord!¡± Cui Bao cast a coquettish gaze at him.


    Shi Yumei guessed that everyone should be done with dinner at Wang Shi¡¯s ce, and ordered Cui Zhu to bring over herrge fur cloak in preparation to head over to her mother¡¯s ce to sit and spend the night with her mother, aunts, and sisters.


    Who knew that Ren Zhixian would have the intention of obstructing her tonight. He did not go to the study room to spend time with Cui Bao and sat in the hall outside instead. He eximed at the sight of her about to leave, ¡°Stand right there! Where are you going?¡±


    Shi Yumei said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯m going to my mother¡¯s ce to apany her with everyone else!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to go!¡± Ren Zhixian was waiting for this exact moment and he firmly refused, ¡°Today is the new year. As a Ren family member, you are not allowed to mix with the Shi family!¡±


    Shi Yumeiughed in ridicule and simply said, ¡°Lord, have you forgotten that we are now living in the Shi household? Am I not allowed to apany my mother for a small chat?¡±


    Her words poked Ren Zhixian at his sore spot and he said angrily with a cold face, ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to go if I say you¡¯re not allowed to! If you dare to take a step out, then don¡¯t ever think abouting back tonight!¡±


    With a belly full of anger, why would Shi Yumei bother? Sheughed coldly and left with Cui Zhu.


    ¡°Well done! Well done! Look at how well the Shi family has educated their daughter, really, really she¡¯s not listening to her husband at all now!¡± Ren Zhixian had never been treated as such by Shi Yumei before and was so angry that his voice trembled. Cui Bao remain at his side to console him for a long time before he finally recovered.


    Shi Yumei also did not feelfortable, and was at a loss of words. Arriving at the front of the main courtyard, she reminded Cui Zhu to not speak insensibly and fixed the expression on her face before entering cheerily.

 Chapter 184 - Cold

    <strong>Chapter 184: Cold</strong>


    Tonight, everyone was spending the night at Wang Shi¡¯s ce. The moment she arrived at the main courtyard, she could already feel the liveliness and hear theughter. Compared to the cold and empty feeling emanating from her own ce, Shi Yumei almost teared up again.


    The courtyard was well-lit because of thenterns along the corridors; a servant immediately spotted Shi Yumei and her servant as soon as they entered. The young servants all went to wee her with a bright smile on their faces, ¡°Eldest Missy, you are finally here! Old Mistress kept thinking about you!¡± One of the servants had already run off to inform everyone else about her arrival.


    ¡°I know that Mother¡¯s thinking about me, so I came right after tending to my husband!¡± Shi Yumei smiled. She was once again the prideful Eldest Missy of the Shi family.


    Wang Shi and the others were still ying cards. Nanny Jiang, Nanny Lin, and Nanny Gui, together with the other important servants, were watching by the side. Upon seeing Shi Yumei, Wang Shi waved her hands and smiled, ¡°Yumei, you¡¯re finally here! Hurry, hurry, help me to look at my hand! Your two aunts are really too good!¡±


    Second Old Mistress Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi both smiled and said, ¡°We have no one to assist us, so we can¡¯t do without being careful!¡±


    Wang Shi was careless by nature, where would she get the mind toe up with strategies? Her losing was not surprising. Shi Yumeiughed and went forward, ¡°This is Second and Third Aunt¡¯s strong suit. Mother, if I spot wrongly, don¡¯t make me pay for you!¡± After she finished speaking, everyoneughed.


    On Sang Wan¡¯s end, she was ying with the few missies in the warm room while gazing out from time to time. She had already prepared the supper, the fireworks for after midnight, and red packets to be distributed.


    After midnight, the beautiful fireworks and loud firecrackers lit up the night sky, marking the start of a new year! All the youngsters kowtowed to their seniors in the household and spoke auspicious words to collect their red packets for the new year. The servants in the household also kowtowed to wish a wonderful new year, and they gave their thanks upon receiving the reward. Everyone was tired after a night of fun, and they all went home to sleep.


    There were still firecrackers to be lit early the next morning and offerings to be given to pay respect to the ancestors. Sang Wan and Shi Fengju washed themselves quickly and went to bed. Sang Wan was so exhausted that her breathing turned steady as soon as her head touched the pillow. Shi Fengju shook his head and smiled. Hey gently beside her and inserted his hand below her neck before pulling her into his embrace. Soon, he fell asleep too.


    Shi Yumei and Cui Zhu returned to Jiao Garden only to discover that the gate was locked from the inside. She and Cui Zhu stared at each other in dismay.


    ¡°Open the door! Open the door! Eldest Missy is back!¡± Cui Zhu knocked on the gate and called out softly.


    However, there was only a dead silence.


    ¡°Hurry up and open the door!¡± Shi Yumei was so infuriated that she kicked at the gate.


    ¡°Eldest Missy! Careful not to hurt your foot!¡± Cui Zhu quickly pulled her back before going back to knock incessantly. However, there was no movement from the inside at all.


    ¡°Enough, no need to call out anymore!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s face darkened and she said, ¡°Ren Zhixian that scoundrel, it must be him who gave the order not to open the gate. There won¡¯t be any use even if you continue to knock!¡± If they were to draw the attention of the servants on night patrol, then her face would bepletely lost!


    ¡°Eldest Missy!¡± Cui Zhu was too angry to speak, ¡°In such a cold weather, what should we do?¡±


    They couldn¡¯t possibly stand here the entire night, right?


    Shi Yumei was out of ideas as well. She suddenly felt that there was no ce for her under the boundless sky, and almost teared up again.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we spend the night at Old Mistress¡¯ ce and settle this tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Definitely not!¡± Shi Yumei refused, ¡°Mother will be sad and angry if she sees me in such a state. It¡¯s the start of a new year, I can¡¯t cause trouble for her!¡±


    ¡°But¡ª¡ª¡± Cui Zhu was at a loss for words and she raised her head up to look at the high courtyard walls. There was nothing she could do right now.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go to Ning Garden1 and find Young Master and Young Mistress!¡± Cui Zhu added, ¡°We can¡¯t stay here for the entire night! It¡¯s too cold, your body won¡¯t be able to handle it!¡±


    Shi Yumei moved her lips but no words came out. Even when Cui Zhu pulled at her to go, she remained adamant.


    It would be fine if Ning Garden only had Shi Fengju, but there was Sang Wan too! To let herself be a victim of Sang Wan¡¯s joke? She would definitely beughed at!


    ¡°Then please wait for me here, Eldest Missy. I¡¯ll be back shortly! Eldest Missy, please wait for this servant!¡± Cui Zhu had no other choice but to bring her aside to take shelter from the wind before hurrying towards Ning Garden.


    At this moment, Shi Fengju was hugging onto Sang Wan and had just fallen asleep. When Liu Ya saw Cui Zhu running anxiously to see Shi Fengju, she did not dare to stop her and went to knock on the chamber¡¯s door.


    Shi Fengju was a little unhappy but he knew that Liu Ya was not insensible and would not have done so if it was not something urgent. As such, he gently let go of Sang Wan. Who knew that he would end up waking Sang Wan. Sang Wan held his hand and asked softly, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Shi Fengju said, ¡°Liu Ya mentioned that Big Sister¡¯s servant, Cui Zhu, is here and something urgent came up! Go back to sleep, I¡¯ll go and take a look.¡±


    ¡°I wille with you!¡± Sang Wan immediately pushed her body to sit on the bed. As soon as she heard that this had something to do with Shi Yumei, how could she sleep peacefully? Who knew if Shi Yumei wouldin that she did not care enough for her husband by going back to sleep to her mother-inw!


    Shi Fengju gave a helpless smile and said, ¡°Alright! But put on anotheryer to not catch a cold!¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Sang Wan obliged as she added anotheryer of clothes nimbly before tidying her hair.


    After the two were ready, they came out from the chamber. As soon as Cui Zhu saw them, her eyes turned wet and she choked on her words.


    ¡°What happened, say it slowly!¡± Sang Wan got a big shock and she quickly held Cui Zhu¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Cui Zhu finally cried and sobbed, ¡°Young Master! Please hurry to where Eldest Missy is! Lord, Lord, he ordered the servants to lock Jiao Garden and not let Eldest Missy in. She¡¯s still standing outside now!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Shi Fengju was so furious that he almost jumped. He thundered, ¡°There¡¯s such a thing? What exactly happened between them tonight?¡±


    ¡°Lord!¡± Sang Wan lowered her voice and said gently, ¡°Don¡¯t panic! We will go there right now and listen to what Cui Zhu has to say while on the go! The weather is freezing out there, we can¡¯t let Big Sister freeze outside!¡±


    Shi Fengju agreed disgruntledly and ordered a servant to fetch their cloaks before heading over with Sang Wan, Cui Zhu and Liu Ya. Before leaving, Sang Wan gave a stern order to Zhide, ¡°Tell the rest that nobody is to speak about this, and the old mistress is not to know a word about this!¡±


    Zhide quickly obliged and went to pass the order.


    Shi Fengju finally returned to his senses. This matter must not be made huge, otherwise, his big sister would be a joke. As such, he took a secluded path through the flower garden.


    ¡°Eldest Missy! Eldest Missy!¡± When nearing Jiao Garden, Cui Zhu quickly ran up and held Shi Yumei who was already in a daze.


    ¡°You are here!¡± Shi Yumei raised her head to look at her servant before ncing behind her, only to see Shi Fengju and Sang Wan. She felt bitter and quickly blinked away the tears that were forming in her eyes.


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s face turned ashen, and he patted Shi Yumei¡¯s shoulder lightly.


    Sang Wan quickly passed a hand warmer to Shi Yumei, ¡°The wind is strong out here, is Big Sister freezing?¡±


    Shi Yumei shook her head lightly and looked at Sang Wan, not knowing what to say.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid! This is our household, how dare he do this to you! Does he consider us all dead!¡± Shi Fengju said resentfully.


    Shi Yumei quickly remarked, ¡°Pah, pah, pah. Watch your words during the New Year; such a horrible word that should not be spoken so carelessly!¡±


    Shi Fengju turned his head and instructed Liu Ya, ¡°Get me adder. Be careful not to let anyone see!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Master!¡± Liu Ya brought along an old servant with her.


    ¡°What are you nning to do!¡± Shi Yumei was stupefied.


    Shi Fengju answered coldly, ¡°Of course to make him pay!¡± If he was resolute in not opening the gate, then he would not bother to knock. As the eldest young master of the Shi family, he would not stoop to the level of begging someone to open the gate!


    Shi Yumei twitched her lips and was dumbfounded.


    Sang Wan did not think much about it. After all, Shi Fengju¡¯s temper was never the best. Big Brother-inw is in for a big trouble!


    ¡°Young Master, here¡¯s thedder!¡± Not long after, Liu Ya and the old servant returned. On the shoulder of the old servant was a bamboodder.


    ¡°Put it here!¡± Shi Fengju pointed at the foot of the wall before climbing it.


    ¡°Fengju, let the servants do it, it¡¯s dangerous!¡± Shi Yumei panicked and held onto him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Fengju answered, ¡°This isn¡¯t too high, I will be careful.¡±


    ¡°Be careful!¡± Sang Wan also whispered before ordering the servants to hold onto thedder firmly and pass thedder up to him once he was on the wall. He received it and ced it onto the other side of the wall. Soon after, the gate was opened from the inside.


    ¡°Sang Wan, go back and rest. I will handle this so you should go back quickly. You still have to wake up early tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengju said gently to Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan knew that it was not appropriate for her to remain while he taught Ren Zhixian a lesson, so she nodded and said, ¡°Then I will go back first. It¡¯s still the New Year, so Lord, don¡¯t be too angry yourself!¡± Don¡¯t blow this up and embarrass everyone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Fengju nodded towards her and ordered Liu Ya to apany her back.


    Liu Ya felt a little regret. She had really wanted to stay and watch what would happen next, what a pity!


    ¡°Big Sister, go to the room at the side and rest. No matter what I do, do not intervene!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes darkened and he said coldly.


    The Shi Fengju now felt very foreign to Shi Yumei, and she could not help but feel afraid. She nodded and went with Cui Zhu.


    Shi Fengju ordered a servant to fetch a basin of cold water before stomping into Ren Zhixian¡¯s room. He cast the water at the bed, before throwing the basin onto the floor mat.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Cui Bao screamed out loud as she was awoken from her dreams by the ssh of bone-freezing water. Ren Zhixian also woke up from the sudden jerk and screamed, ¡°Who! How dare you!¡±


    The room was lit by a servant. Shi Fengju stood by the bed and coldly said, ¡°You must be feeling veryfortable. Big Brother-inw, you must be enjoying yourself a lot. May I know where my sister is now?¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Cui Bao finally got a clear look at the Shi family¡¯s young master and she quickly crossed her arms, hugging herself while frantically pulling the nket around herself. Right now, the nket was already soaked with cold water, and Cui Bao cried bitterly to herself.


    ¡°It¡¯s you! Get out now! Get out!¡± Ren Zhixian was feeling both angry and ashamed, but he still went to cover Cui Bao with his own body, as if Shi Fengju seeing her body would depreciate it.


    But why would Shi Fengju ever bat an eye at a servant? To him, she was just an object and he did not look at her even once. He red at Ren Zhixian and sneered, ¡°Get out? Are you ordering me? You are in our Shi family¡¯s territory, yet you are ordering me to get out? Big Brother-inw, you¡¯re mistaken!¡±

 Chapter 185 - Punishment

    <h4>Chapter 185: Punishment</h4>


    ¡°You!¡± Ren Zhixian said hatefully, ¡°Don¡¯t think you are all that amazing just because of some stinky money! When I be an official in the future, I will make all of you kneel in front of me and beg!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled mockingly, ¡°It¡¯s not toote for Big Brother-inw to act arrogant when that happens! What¡¯s the point of saying that now? Where is my big sister?¡±


    Ren Zhixian was fuming with anger but he could not do anything about Shi Fengju. Hearing him ask about Shi Yumei, Ren Zhixian replied coldly, ¡°How should I know? What? Didn¡¯t she go apany her mother?¡±


    Shi Fengju said, ¡°She went back, but who knows which bast*rd had the guts to lock the gate and not let her in! Heng, please enlighten me on why my big sister cannot even return to her own house! Big Brother-inw, shouldn¡¯t you give me an answer for this?¡±


    So it¡¯s because of that! Ren Zhixian felt a twinge of regret. Of course he could not admit that he was the one who gave the ultimatum not to open to the gate, and he answered, ¡°How should I know why that gate isn¡¯t open? The servants must¡¯ve thought that she was going to spend the night there and wasn¡¯ting back! What¡¯s wrong with locking the gate? Heng, doesn¡¯t she know how to call out!¡±


    ¡°Oh, so that¡¯s the reason!¡± Shi Fengju replied coldly, ¡°So this wasn¡¯t instructed by Big Brother-inw?¡±


    ¡°Definitely not!¡± Ren Zhixian did not give any thought when denying. Who was he kidding? Shi Fengju looked like he could gobble him up at anytime, as if he would dare to admit it! He thought to himself: If I don¡¯t admit it, what can you do about it?


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± If he doesn¡¯t admit, Shi Fengju really could not do anything about him. And so, Shi Fengju said stoically, ¡°Then the servants are the ones at fault! Go, call up all the servants in Jiao Garden and stand in the courtyard!¡± He gave a chilly re at the fragile-looking Cui Bao and said, ¡°And you, go to the courtyard as well!¡±


    ¡°This¡ª¡ª¡±


    Before Cui Bao could speak, Ren Zhixian had already yelled out, ¡°What has this got to do with Cui Bao!¡±


    Shi Fengju said indifferently, ¡°She is also a servant! If the servants are disobedient, they need to be taught a lesson! Go or not, you decide yourself!¡± Hisst words were for Cui Bao.


    Cui Bao¡¯s expression changed immediately and she answered, ¡°This servant will go, this servant will go!¡± After that, she quickly put on her clothes. As if she would dare to not go? She had long known that in the Shi household, Ren Zhixian would not be able to protect her!


    Seeing how Cui Bao ¡°yielded¡± and not give him any face, he became speechless with anger.


    Shi Fengju gave another cutting nce at him before turning his back to leave. In Jiao Garden, the servants were already standing in the pavillion, trembling in fear. Being ordered toe out from their warm nkets on such a cold day, everyoneined in their hearts, but nobody dared to voice it out. There was only fear in their hearts.


    Seeing Cui Bao, who was the favorite, running out in a disheveled manner, everyone¡¯s hearts tightened once more.


    Shi Fengju nced across them coldly and reprimanded, ¡°I don¡¯t have to say anything more about what happened tonight! I see that all of you must have enjoyed too manyfortable days that you¡¯ve all be unruly. How dare you decide on your own and do something so disrespectful! If I don¡¯t teach you a lesson, then what will be of the Shi Household?¡± Shi Fengju said loudly, ¡°All of you, kneel! You¡¯ll all kneel until the next morning when someone I ordered says it¡¯s enough! Kneel now!¡±


    Everyone drew in a sharp breath collectively. Some reacted quickly and said, ¡°Young Master, us servants are used wrongly. It was all Young Master Ren¡¯s instructions!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Master Ren was angry, so we servants did not dare to disobey!¡±


    ¡°Young Master, please have mercy on us, we dare not do it again!¡±


    Shi Fengju looked at them coldly and did not speak until the crowd was done exining, begging, and admitting their wrongs. He turned towards Ren Zhixian, whose face was already turning from green to white, and smiled, ¡°Big Brother-inw did you hear that? They said they were all following your instructions, this can¡¯t be true, right?¡±


    Ren Zhixian guiltily turned his head away while trying to hold onto his facade as he gave a low sneer. Of course he could not admit! A person as well-read as him couldn¡¯t possibly do such a thing? But if he were to deny it in front of everyone, it would also be a p to his face!


    Shi Fengju smiled coldly and red at the crowd as hemanded, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you kneeling! All of you really have no respect for your masters, how dare you still malign Young Master Ren! You¡¯re all really out of control! Anyone who speaks anymore will add another thirty spanks tomorrow!¡±


    Everyone was frightened, and those who wanted to voice out held onto their tongues for their dear lives. They looked at one another and kneeled without a choice. They resented Ren Zhixian in their hearts! If they knew this would happen, they shouldn¡¯t have listened to him! A few of the servants also reproached themselves for being foolish; how could they have forgotten that this was the Shi household! When had it be someone who was not surnamed ¡®Shi¡¯ to be in charge?


    Shi Fengju¡¯s action was without a doubt a hard p on his face. He was so mad that no noise could escape from his mouth! If he remained quiet, then it would imply that his servants do not respect him and had tried to nder him. It was only justifiable for Shi Fengju to teach them a lesson, and he could do nothing; not even plea leniency for them.


    ¡°Whoever dares to take a break from this should take a good look at your own worth beforehand!¡± Shi Fengju threw one final sentence before walking away with the servants from Ning Garden1.


    Ren Zhixian was furious to a state of no return!


    ¡°Cui Bao,e and help me change and prepare my bed!¡± Ren Zhixian reckoned that Shi Fengju must have already walked a distance and ordered Cui Bao again with his usual air.


    All the other servants were useless, they dared to betray him in front of Shi Fengju, andined about him! Even if they had to kneel for three days and three nights, he would not bat an eye. But Cui Bao was different, Cui Bao had him in her heart. She truly cared for him, so how would he have the heart to watch her suffer?


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s words garnered rage from the rest of the servants, however, they did not dare to confront him. Instead, all their sharp res turned to Cui Bao, almost as if they could cut her. All of them thought collectively in their hearts: If she dared to get up, then I¡¯ll definitely tell on her tomorrow!¡±


    Cui Bao was tactful, there was no way she would dare to get up. She lowered her head and whispered, ¡°This servant, this servant now guilty of an offense, this servant does not dare! Lord, please order Sister Cui Zhu instead!¡±


    In this whole courtyard, Cui Zhu was the only one exempted from the punishment.


    ¡°What? You aren¡¯t going to listen to your lord¡¯s words now?¡± Ren Zhixian sneered under his breath and went forward to pull Cui Bao up.


    Cui Bao had wanted to yield after making a small show of resistance before following Ren Zhixian, but at the thought of the servants who were ring at her like a predator, as well as Shi Fengju¡¯s icy cold expression, she quickly snatched her hand back and begged desperately, ¡°Lord, this servant deserves to be punished. Please do not make things difficult for this servant!¡±


    One after another, all of them are no longer listening to me now! Shi Fengju, that rascal, is he trying to cut me off from everyone else! Ren Zhixian tutted hatefully and stomped his feet as he left.


    He went to the door of the warm room and called out to Cui Zhu loudly. At this moment, Shi Yumei and Cui Zhu were already in bed. Cui Zhu got up in a shock and looked at Shi Yumei beggingly. She knew that if she went out now, she would be an object for Ren Zhixian to vent on, and who knew how he would torture her! But she was only a servant, if the master called for her, what else could she do?


    Shi Yumei could not bear seeing her expression and sighed softly, ¡°Ignore him, let¡¯s go back to sleep!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Eldest Missy!¡± Cui Zhu¡¯s pale expression recovered and she went back to lie down gently.


    In Ning Garden, how could Sang Wan fall asleep? When Shi Fengju pushed the door to enter, she immediately got up and looked at him, ¡°You¡¯re back!¡±


    ¡°En,¡± Shi Fengju smiled and removed his outer robe before cing it on the hanger at the side, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you sleeping yet?¡±


    Sang Wan blurted out without any thought, ¡°If you aren¡¯t back, how can I sleep!¡± But that sounded too intimate, as if she was not used to sleeping without him. Sang Wan blushed subconsciously and asked with a smile, ¡°How did it go? Is everything alright now?¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s alright now!¡± Shi Fengju smiled. His anger had already disappeared by half. He climbed up the bed and pulled her into his embrace, ¡°You were saying that you can¡¯t sleep when I am not around?¡±


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes at him and said, ¡°I¡¯m just worried! How can I sleep with something on my mind!¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Shi Fengju answered faintly and was somewhat disappointed.


    Sang Wan bursted outughing and said gently, ¡°Quickly go to sleep. I¡¯m afraid we will have to get up very soon!¡±


    Shi Fengju still remained quiet without saying a word.


    Really, this person! Sang Wan sighed helplessly. She took the initiative to put her arms around his waist and lie in his embrace as she fidgeted slightly.


    Seeing how she was as obedient as a kitten, his gloomy mood was instantly lifted and he hugged her tightly, ¡°You must be tired, go to sleep quickly!¡±


    ¡°Right,¡± Sang Wan smiled at him and found afortable spot in his embrace and closed her eyes. She instantly felt a little indignant: Hearing indirectly from Nanny Li, when he was close to Gu Fangzi in the past, he would always listen to her. Now, although it was her turn to be close to him, it was her who had to listen to him! Sure enough, different people have different predicaments!


    They were up untiltest night. The next morning, they were tardy and that made Sang Wan panic. It was the day of the New Year, Wang Shi only rolled her eyes but did not speak of it! Sang Wan only let out a huge sigh of relief and felt that it wasrgely because she was onlyte by a little.


    Nanny Jiang smiled and helped Sang Wan say a few words, ¡°I think Young Mistress must¡¯ve been tired from everything that¡¯s happening in the past few days! Everything within the household had to be managed by her after all!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Shi Fengju quickly agreed. He wanted to say that initially, but he was afraid that it would make his mother angrier.


    Although that was it, Wang Shi gave him a re, ¡°What¡¯s so tiring about it? Which daughter-inw who manages the household did not have to go through this? Don¡¯t tell me that I still have to give out instructions even until this day? Even I had to go through this in the past!¡±


    Nanny Jiang and Shi Fengju did not dare to speak after hearing so. After awhile, Second Old Mistress Shi, and Third Old Mistress Shi arrived. Only then did Wang Shi stop talking about it.


    On the next day, Sang Wan was to return to her parents¡¯ home to pay a visit. In the afternoon, she returned to Ning Garden to begin the preparations.


    ¡°Those can be handled by Nanny and Liu Ya, you should lie down and rest for a while!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    Sang Wan said, ¡°During broad daylight, how can I go to bed and rest? What¡¯s more, today¡¯s the first day after the New Year, others will definitely gossip about it if I do!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°Then just lie down on the heated bed in the warm room for a while, otherwise, where will you get the energy for tomorrow? If your big brother and sister-inw see you, they will surely me me for not taking good care of you!¡±


    Sang Wanughed and tilted her head, ¡°Big Brother and Big Sister-inw only sing praises of you, why would they me you?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°That¡¯s only because I always took good care of you! When we went back previously, I had personally made a promise with your big brother.¡±

 Chapter 186 - hy Not We Go back?

    <h4>Chapter 186: Why Not We Go back?</h4>


    Listening to him speak about the past, Sang Wan turned a little flustered and she lowered her gaze with a smile, ¡°Really? Why didn¡¯t I know about it...¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°You were not there at that time. But see, haven¡¯t I done it now?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed and she gave a soft tut without speaking further.


    Shi Fengju chuckled and pulled her into the warm room before ordering the servants to leave. He then yanked her to lie down. Sang Wan was indeed feeling a little tired and did not resist any further. She took off her outer robe and pulled the nket over her chest and fell into a deep sleep after saying a few words. Shi Fengju sat by the side with a book in his hands to chase away the boredom, but no content went into his head. He caressed her shoulders softly and his eyes were filled with gentleness. Just being with her, even if it was just looking at her, he would feel a faintfort spread in his heart, making him feel extremely at ease. She was the only one who could provide him this quiet and warm feeling of bliss.


    Third Old Mistress Shi had not returned to visit her family for many years. She would be going back with Third Old Master Shi and their two daughters tomorrow as well. After having dumplings at Wang Shi¡¯s ce, she sat for a little longer before returning to prepare.


    Second Old Mistress Shi did not express anything at Wang Shi¡¯s ce, but after returning to her house, she was feeling sulky. Nanny Lin went up to pacify her with a smile, ¡°Thinking about it, Old Mistress hasn¡¯t gone back for the past two years. Why don¡¯t we prepare a little and do the same for tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not going!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi said grudgingly, ¡°My son is yet to be found and my daughter-inw failed to live up to my expectations! What¡¯s the point of going back? I will only be mocked by others! ¡±


    Thinking about her son, her heart could not help but ache even more.


    Nanny Lin¡¯s expression changed slightly. Feeling slightly embarrassed, she did not dare utter another word.


    Jiao Garden¡¯s cold war still continued. All the servants knelt for an entire night and almost everyone felt as cold as an icicle the next day! In the morning, Shi Fengju sent a servant with an order to allow them to get up. All of them felt immense relief and gave their thanks while getting up with great difficulty before returning to their house have a change of clothes and a hot beverage. Being in the cold for a long period, their loud sneezes could be heard from the heavens above.


    Ren Zhixian was distressed at the sight of Cui Bao¡¯s red cheeks that were freezing cold and her purple lips that were trembling uncontrobly. He quickly used a thick coat to wrap around her and pulled her back into the chamber before ordering Cui Zhu to prepare hot water for her to take a bath.


    Almost every servant in Jiao Garden caught a cold, and Cui Zhu was the only one who remained mobile. Without a choice, she had to ask the kitchen for some hot water, and then the storehouse for some medication before brewing arge pot to be shared with everyone.


    ¡°Finding trouble for everyone again!¡± Ren Zhixian red at Shi Yumei spitefully and coldly said, ¡°Everyone in Jiao Garden is sick. Are you happy now? What good does doing this get you!¡±


    Shi Yumei red at him incredulously and said, ¡°You¡¯re ming me for this? Did you not think that I might end up being the one falling sick because you had someone lock me outside? Can what you speak even match up to your conscience?¡±


    Ren Zhixian mocked, ¡°Weren¡¯t you concerned about your mother? You disappearedtest night, so how would I know if you areing back? Anyway, isn¡¯t this your Shi household? Is there no other ce for the eldest daughter to stay! So of course you¡¯re to me!¡± Ren Zhixian gnashed his teeth, ¡°You purposely wanted me to lose face, so you called Shi Fengju over to make a ruckus! I¡¯m sure you know, right? Shi Fengju, that bast*rd, woke me up from my sleep by throwing a huge basin of cold water on me! Nothing less from a scheming businessman! ¡±


    Shi Yumei received a huge shock. She didn¡¯t think that Shi Fengju would be so ruthless. However, Shi Fengju was standing up for her so she certainly would not speak badly of him. Sheughed coldly, ¡°Well, you were the first in the wrong, so you deserved it!¡±


    Ren Zhixian fumed, ¡°Right, so I deserved it. I deserved to be subjected to such indignity since your entire family has their eyes on top of their heads!¡± Ren Zhixian felt that if this conversation were to continue with his disobedient wife, his anger would definitely exceed his limit. He stormed off in a huff and went to have a look at Cui Bao.


    Cui Baoy in the warm bed of his study room that was separated by a partition. She was feeling terrible with a throbbing headache and a blocked nose. Seeing him arrive, her eyes turned red and she called out to him tearily before going silent.


    ¡°All because I was useless, you¡¯ve ended up suffering!¡± Ren Zhixian felt so sorry for her, and he caressed Cui Bao¡¯s face lightly. In front of Cui Bao, seeing her rely on him made him feel like a real man, a man with an indomitable spirit.


    ¡°Lord, you mustn¡¯t say that!¡± Cui Bao¡¯s strained her throat and struggled to get up but was forced to remain lying down by Ren Zhixian. Her eyes darkened and she let out a few coughs before she spoke with a low voice, ¡°Lord had suffered a lot as well, let alone a servant like myself!¡±


    Her words immediately hit Ren Zhixian in the heart, and he sighed, ¡°What can we do! In any case, this is the Shi household!¡± He gritted his teeth indignantly as he thought to himself: If not, they wouldn¡¯t have acted so brazenly!


    Cui Bao¡¯s eyes sparkled, ¡°Has Lord never thought of going back to Mengxian?¡±


    ¡°Go back?¡± Ren Zhixian was taken aback. He had never really thought of going back. What¡¯s more, he had nothing left in Mengxian, not even a house. Going back there, what would they eat or drink!


    ¡°Yes!¡± Cui Bao answered, ¡°Going back is still better than living here, only to be at someone else¡¯s disposal! Lord, just think about it. Young Mistress is the eldest missy of the Shi household, the Shi household would never not care about her welfare!¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s eyes brightened, and he rubbed his hands, ¡°Not bad, why didn¡¯t I think about that!¡±


    If he were to return to Mengxian, Shi Yumei would have to follow too. If he had no food to eat, and no roof over his head, Shi Yumei would have to suffer the same! He did not believe that Shi Fengju would watch Shi Yumei live in poverty on the streets!


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled. I am done with the days of living under someone else¡¯s roof. Let¡¯s go back after a few days once you¡¯ve recovered!¡± Ren Zhixian said decisively


    Cui Bao cheered and she quickly added, ¡°Lord is wise. When we arrive at Mengxian, won¡¯t you be able to have your way? Nobody would dare to show you any displeasure!¡±


    Recalling how everyone in Mengxian would fawn over him, Ren Zhixian finally smiled with satisfaction and was excited about returning!


    How foolish he had been, he should have thought of it sooner! Mengxian was definitely a thousand and million times better than here! So long as Shi Yumei was around, what was there for him to be afraid of?


    Cui Bao was also naturally happy too. Once they leave the Shi household, she would belong to the Ren family. With Ren Zhixian loving her so dearly, no one would find trouble for her from then on!


    ¡°Lord!¡± Cui Bao nced around, ¡°All these valuable decorations and furniture are all avable to us. Why don¡¯t we bring them back to decorate the house? It would be so much better than buying anew from the market!¡±


    ¡°Right, right!¡± Since those were things he had used, it goes without saying that they now belonged to him. Cui Bao¡¯s words made an absolute sense!


    Cui Bao then added, ¡°Still, I worry that Young Master Shi will not permit us to do so. Lord, you¡¯ve seen how he was like yesterday...¡±


    ¡°Heng!¡± Ren Zhixian was unhappy and his expression turned sullen, ¡°As if he would still argue with me over this!¡±


    ¡°That will be difficult to say. After all, this is the Shi household, there¡¯s no way we can win against so many of them!¡±


    ¡°Then what do you think we should do?¡± Ren Zhixian asked.


    That was just what Cui Bao was waiting for. She smiled and said, ¡°This will be simple! Since no one will pay attention to us during the next few days, why don¡¯t we move all those small items out of this household and hide them elsewhere? Do you think it¡¯ll be usible?¡±


    Ren Zhixian did not seem to think that it was wrong at all. In fact, he nodded a couple of times and agreed with her. He smiled and evenplimented Cui Bao. ¡°You¡¯re smart to havee up with such a brilliant idea!¡±


    Having settled on the decision, he stopped having a war of words with Shi Yumei while harboring threatening thoughts towards her: You wait and see. Once we return back to Mengxian, I¡¯ll have to change that bad habit of yours! You¡¯ve been very rebellious ever since we came here!¡±


    Shi Yumei was entirely oblivious about his n. Seeing that he had stopped giving her trouble, she certainly would not go and find trouble for herself.


    On the next morning, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju boarded a horse carriage and headed for Yangliu Town¡¯s Sihe Vige.


    Just like before, there were two carriages. Liu Ya and two other servants shared a carriage full of gifts, while Shi Fengju and Sang Wan shared the other.


    However, the atmosphere of the journey this time around was different. After getting into the carriage and settling down, Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes were fixated on his wife and he had a gleeful smile on his face. He was feeling both restless and excited.


    Under his brazen gaze, Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed. She wanted to avoid him, but there was only that much space within the carriage.


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju extended his arm to pull her close to him and he smiled, ¡°We are husband and wife, so why are you sitting so far away from me?¡±


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes at him and thought in her heart: we were husband and wife too in the past, but weren¡¯t you the one who sat far away from me?


    Shi Fengju saw her lovely face full of grievance that seemed so innocent, and his heart fluttered. He could not help but lower his head to kiss her lightly on her forehead and nose, ¡°Sang Wan, this is our first time going out together after being together!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t do anything out of line inside the carriage. How do you expect me to meet with others if my clothes and hair be messy!¡± Sang Wan smiled and pushed him away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I know how to stay in line.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and looked outside the window through the veil. Mountains were at a distance, and the beautiful scenery went by them as the carriage continued forward. Including the time when he went to receive her for the marriage ceremony, this was his third time going by this road. However, this might be the first time he had ever felt this happy andfortable. After all was said and done, he did not let her go. Perhaps fate had it from the day they were married, that she was destined to be his, however, it was he who took so long to realize. His heart shook a little and he simply hugged her close to him and carried her onto hisp.


    ¡°Fengju!¡± Sang Wan received a huge surprise. Even in their house, he had never hugged her like this. Not having the courage to remain in such a position lest she lost face if her servants were to see her like that unintentionally, she struggled to stand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± Shi Fengju hugged her even more tightly, and smiled stubbornly, ¡°Let me hold you dearly in my arms! Nobody will see us!¡±


    Sang Wan nced towards the closed carriage doors, and felt more at ease. She spoke no further and leaned towards his embrace.


    Shi Fengju was happy and became more intimate with her. During the entire journey, they spoke sweet words to each other and the atmosphere was very dreamy.


    Sang Hong and Fang Shi knew that they wereing today and had already prepared the spread of food since a while ago. ¡°The horse carriages are here! The horse carriages are here!¡± In the afternoon, they heard the vige¡¯s young children running and shouting. Sang Hong and Fang Shi brought their children out to wee the guests.


    Shi Fengju helped Sang Wan to tidy her hair before getting off the carriage. He offered his hand to her and helped her down. Sang Hong and Fang Shi both smiled and went forward, ¡°We have waited half a day, you¡¯re finally here!¡±


    The two children, Sang Quan and Sang Nuan, were in a new set of clothes. They ran forward and greeted, ¡°Auntie, Uncle.¡±


    Sang Wan answered them and held their hands while smiling towards her brother and sister-inw, ¡°Aren¡¯t we all looking forward to this day. There was snow during the past few days so the road became a little difficult to travel on. If not, we would have arrived earlier!¡±

 Chapter 187 - The Farce In Second Sang Family

    <h4>Chapter 187: The Farce In Second Sang Family</h4>


    Fang Shi smiled and said, ¡°It must have been difficult for you! The road bes difficult to travel once the snow melts and leaves residue! How about staying over tonight? It¡¯ll just be half a day more!¡± Sang Hong nodded in agreement.


    Sang Wan and Shi Fengju looked at one another before Shi Fengju gave an answer with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan was going to let you know. Then we¡¯ll be staying for a night!¡±


    Fang Shi was ted and she smiled, ¡°I have my foresight to thank. I¡¯ve already tidied Sang Wan¡¯s room and even changed the bedding!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, thank you!¡±


    ¡°We are a family, there¡¯s no need to be so courteous!¡±


    Everyone exchanged warm greetings to one another as they entered the house and sat ording to guests and hosts. Sang Wan had a quick look inside the house, and saw that there were no expensive decorations and the furniture was the same as before. Fang Shi knew what she was thinking and smiled, ¡°I¡¯m used to everything being the way they are, and it¡¯s morefortable to live like this. Putting those expensive antiques, vases, and whatever around will really make me anxious. I¡¯m afraid I might end up breaking them if I¡¯m not careful!¡±


    Everyoneughed when she said that.


    While everyone chatted, Fang Shi and Nanny Xu went into the kitchen to prepare lunch. Sang Hong apanied Shi Fengju and Sang Wan to speak about Sang Yufei in the center of the house. He was living far away from home, and the Sang siblings could not help but feel a little empty inside as they wondered how he was spending his new year all alone in a foreign ce.


    Shi Fengju consoled them a little, and talked about how the Shi family had a few shops in the capital. Shi Ming was well informed about them, so if anything were to happen, help would definitely be given, and a quick message would also be sent back. Sang Hong felt a little more relieved and he quickly thanked Shi Fengju again.


    Not long after, visitors from the vige came to visit one after another. Sang Hong got up to wee them. This was also a custom in the vige. No matter which household had visitors, a few close neighbors would be invited to sit around and apany the guest. If no one came, then it would mean that the family had a bad reputation. The visitors who came were personally invited by Sang Hong yesterday.


    The room became lively all of a sudden. Seeing that all the guests were male, Sang Wan went up to greet them before excusing herself to the kitchen.


    During lunch, Sang Hong and the rest ate in the courtyard. Fang Shi brought a few dishes into the side room to eat with Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan was worried about Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Sanging over to create ruckus again, but who knew that a long time ended up passing peacefully. She could not help but smile at Fang Shi, ¡°Big Sister-inw, Second Uncle and Second Aunt aren¡¯t home?¡± If not, given their character, there was no way they¡¯d be so docile! They had imed to have cut ties with Sang Hong but that did not include Sang Wan.


    Fang Shi gave her a quick glimpse before giggling softly, ¡°So you aren¡¯t entirely a fool! Did you think they aren¡¯t at home? Wrong, their home is much too crowded now; they don¡¯t even have the time to bother us anymore!¡±


    Sang Wan was momentarily stunned.


    Fang Shi smiled in disdain, ¡°Your second uncle bought a woman home from town a few months ago. Ai, but what a sin it was. She is even younger than Sang Rou by slightly more than a year!¡±


    ¡°Such a thing happened?!¡± Sang Wan was shocked and thought to herself: No wonder. This time, Second Aunt would definitely be busy at home.


    Fang Shiughed coldly, ¡°Just because his little concubine is young, doesn¡¯t mean she is someone to look down on! She not only has her youth, but also her beauty to fight on even ground with your second aunt. Right now, haha, their ce is a mess everyday! It was the New Year a few days ago and that young concubine got into a squabble with your second aunt. In the end, your second aunt slipped from the stairs and twisted her waist. Right now, she¡¯s stuck in bed and cannot get out! Tell me, how can shee to our house when she¡¯s in such a state?¡± As for Second Uncle Sang, where would he have to face to bother his niece? There was no way he would ever dare to visit Sang Hong¡¯s house again.


    And that was why Sang Hong¡¯s house was finally peaceful now!


    Sang Wan listened in disbelief and said soon after, ¡°Second Aunt has always beenpetitive, who knew that she would end up in this hole! This really is ¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Wan shook her head as she did not wish to speak ill about her elders. After all, they were now very pitiful!


    ¡°There is always something dominating the other, and for them, it¡¯s retribution!¡± Fang Shi did not like Li Shi at all, andughed coldly, ¡°You may think that she¡¯s pitiful, but think about all those sinister things she did in the past which gave us trouble. Had she ever given mercy to others? Humph, Sang Wan, you mustn¡¯t be soft-hearted! Especially when you¡¯re living in such arge household, you mustn¡¯t be like that! Think about it, if the marriage between the Sang family and Shi family was canceled, or if your third brother was not able to receive the title as the top escorted examinee, how badly would your second uncle and aunt have treated our family? They would definitely force us to our deaths! Before others said anything, our two closest rtives would have taken the lead to speak ill about us! These types of people deserve no sympathy at all!¡±


    Fang Shi then added, ¡°There¡¯s something even more amusing and maddening! After Second Uncle got a concubine, why don¡¯t you try guessing what your second aunt came to tell me? Heng, she actually encouraged me to let your big brother get a concubine as well! She even mentioned that things are different in this time and age; if your big brother doesn¡¯t get a concubine, all the neighbors would end up mocking him! She even said that I was not being virtuous! Hmph, worst still, she said that I should buy two beautiful maidservants to train them to be your third brother¡¯s partners when he returns! Disgusting!¡± Fang Shi spatted, ¡°Are these words an elder should be saying? After that, I stopped responding pleasantly to her and disregarded any of her opinions! Getting a concubine is not something your big brother should ever think about in his lifetime! As the eldest sister-inw, I will also hold my stand to never allow your third brother to learn from those dirty people outside who have improper intercourse with other women before marriage. After marriage, his wife will be the one in charge of him, and whatever they wish to do between them will be none of my concern.¡±1


    Fang Shi could not hide her anger and hatred as she spoke about it. Her mother-inw left early, and then followed by her father-inw. It had been difficult for her and Sang Hong to support the household, and their family was finally able to leave their difficult situation after many years: Sang Wan got married into a family which treated her well, and Sang Yufei had a promising future ahead of him after bing a top escorted examinee; already, he could live afortable life. If he were able to pass the court examinations, then that would be even better! After all those bitter and difficult times, it was time to enjoy theirfortable days right now. For someone to suddenly mention getting a concubine, disregarding the fact about how the concubine would be able to enjoy all the fruits of today¡¯s sess without suffering, and even bring unnecessary unhappiness, Fang Shi would only do so if she were dumb!


    ¡°Big Sister-inw!¡± Sang Wan was exasperated as well after listening to her. She quickly held Fang Shi¡¯s hands and said gently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much about her, she must be feeling ufortable after Second Uncle got a concubine and wanted everyone to feel the same way too. As long as you ignore her, everything will be fine! Our Sang family is so lucky to have a daughter-inw like you! And Big Brother isn¡¯t that sort of person. He¡¯ll definitely not have such thoughts!¡±


    Fang Shi¡¯s expression rxed a little and she smiled, embarrassed, ¡°I lost myself just now and ended up voicing everything that¡¯s inside me! But there are some things that I really cannot help but be angry at and find someone to pour that frustration out to! That day, I was so maddened that I ended up quarreling with your big brother. Thankfully, your big brother did not hold it against me and even consoled me! You¡¯re right, as long as your big brother doesn¡¯t have such thoughts, why should I be angry? Even if he does, I will never allow it!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°I understand Big Brother¡¯s character, he definitely won¡¯t!¡± The two ended up having a goodugh.


    After a quick rest, Sang Wan sighed softly, ¡°Before I head back, I¡¯ll go pay Second Aunt a visit! Since we¡¯re back, we should go over there for a bit.¡±


    Fang Shi nodded her head and sneered, ¡°That¡¯s right, they may have cut ties with us but did not cut ties with you. If you don¡¯t go, it won¡¯t look good on you as others may im that you are looking down on them after being sessful!¡± After saying so, she sighed again and continued, ¡°We used to be bullied in the past, now that we¡¯ve suddenly be sessful, there are people who will intentionally try to fawn on us, and people who are jealous of us and will find any opportunity to speak badly of us. Just do the formalities to prevent others from speaking much about us! After all, there¡¯s no need to garner ill-feelings without a reason.¡±


    Sang Wan nodded in agreement.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Fang Shi nudged Sang Wan and creased her eyebrows as she said, ¡°How¡¯s that Miss Gu in your household? Marrying while she is still in her mourning period, I have never seen anyone as thick-skinned as her! Is she still obedient?¡±


    Sang Wan sighed softly and spoke about how Gu Fangzi would be ending her mourning period in February before adding, ¡°She had given me lots of trouble in the past, but she seems docile right now. Who knows if she is really being docile or just putting up an act!¡±


    Regarding the promise that Shi Fengju had made to send Gu Fangzi away, Sang Wan did not speak about it as it was a difficult promise to aplish. Firstly, Gu Fangzi was already married into the Shi family. Secondly, by her personality, she would definitely not wait obediently to be sent away and would surely y her hand. Thirdly, Wang Shi was still a major figure supporting her from behind. If Wang Shi refused, Shi Fengju would not be able to retaliate. If the household and Wang Shi¡¯s mood were to turn into a mess because of it, Sang Wan¡¯s days ahead would not be easy as well. As for what would be of their promise, although Sang Wan still remained hopeful, she felt that the only benefit she might gain would be Shi Fengju¡¯s guilt if he were unable to deliver his promise!


    ¡°That woman really is a vixen!¡± Fang Shi was amazed and she sneered, ¡°What dream, and master to interpret it. I think it¡¯s all just her pulling the strings! Yet your mother-inw and husband still believed her?¡±


    Sang Wan quickly defended, ¡°Old people will believe such things. What¡¯s more, Gu Fangzi is someone who she loves and trusts, why would she doubt it? As for Fengju, he didn¡¯t say anything!¡±


    Fang Shi rolled her eyes and smiled, ¡°You sure know how to defend your husband! But there¡¯s no use in siding with him. What¡¯s important is how he thinks about the situation!¡± Fang Shi shook her head and said, ¡°I actually have this thought that if that woman had to do three years of mourning, it would be enough time for you to get pregnant twice. Good grief, there¡¯s still no signs of your tummy getting bigger and her mourning period is about to be over! How witty of her!¡±


    ¡°Big Sister-inw, don¡¯t worry, I know what I should do and will protect myself well!¡± Sang Wan said softly, ¡°Not looking at everything else, Second Brother is now a top escorted examinee and is very likely to pass the court examinations. Just by that, the Shi family will treat me properly!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, ¡° Fang Shiughed and said, ¡°That woman does not have any other kin to side with her, there is no need to fear her! But that is equally good for her because your mother-inw and husband might be more caring and biased towards her. If she were to do anything to you, your days there¡ª¡ªSang Wan, we really won¡¯t be any help to you!¡±


    Things withinrge households were indeed the most troubling!


    Sang Wan quickly smiled and said, ¡°Has the help given by Big Brother-inw and Sister-inw been little? This is my problem anyway, I should handle it myself. There¡¯s no need for you to worry about me!¡±


    Fang Shiughed and said, ¡°It¡¯s good that you can think this way! Yourrge household is different from a small one like ours. Even if it isn¡¯t that woman, there¡¯ll be someone else sooner orter. You¡¯ll have to face it in the end!¡±


    Sang Wan gave a soft bitterugh. She had already understood that point, but after listening to what Fang Shi said and picturing how Shi Fengju would be intimate with another woman in the future as he was now with her, a sense of difort and unhappiness swept through her.

 Chapter 188 - Second Aunt Sang’s Request

    <b>Chapter 188: Second Aunt Sang¡¯s Request</b>


    After lunch, Sang Wan ordered Liu Ya to carry some presents to head over to Sang Pingliang¡¯s house together.


    Sang Pingliang was still furious at Sang Hong for not inviting him over when Sang Wan and Shi Fengju were at his house. Even if Sang Hong no longer saw him as his second uncle, couldn¡¯t he have seen him as an elder of the vige? That brat, Sang Hong, really is a cold and heartless person! However, Sang Pingliang had be timid after receiving received countless scoldings from Li Zheng and the few other elders in the vige that he did not dare to visit Sang Hong¡¯s house rashly anymore.


    What a pity that Li Shi was injured and could only lie in bed. Otherwise, he could still mobilize her to check things out!


    Hearing that they had arrived, Sang Pingliang¡¯s face brightened up in an instant and he quickly opened the door. At least Sang Wan still has some conscience and remembers to visit us elders!


    Sang Pingliang was considering carefully. This time, he definitely must not let Shi Fengju off the hook so easily without making a promise. With therge wealth and business that the Shi family had, even if the Shi family aren¡¯t willing to give away a shop or two to them, surely they could let them help out in the business, right?


    Who knew that when Sang Pingliang looked behind Sang Wan, there was no sight of Shi Fengju anywhere, and he asked, ¡°Where is my nephew-inw? Why are you the only one here?¡±


    Liu Ya could not help but pout her lips as she thought: Mister Sang, you sure are as impudent as before! Even Young Mistress Fang doesn¡¯t speak with such a tone to our young mistress!


    Sang Wan smiled faintly and said, ¡°Lord is still apanying others so I came over to visit Second Uncle and Aunt!


    ¡°Oh, have a seat, quickly!¡± Sang Pinglian was a little dispirited, but he quickly perked himself up in a blink of an eye as he thought to himself:pared to Shi Fengju, isn¡¯t Sang Wan easier to convince? As long as Sang Wan concedes, won¡¯t it be the same with Shi Fengju? There¡¯s no way Shi Fengju could deny promises made by his wife, right?


    ¡°Sang Wan, please have some tea. Old Lord bought this good tea just before the new year, and kept some just for you when youe!¡± The concubine smiled and served the tea. She wore an amber robe embroidered with flowers and her hair was tied beautifully. She had clear eyes with a touch of wittiness and a pretty face. Comparing her with Li Shi was likeparing an old vegetable with a fresh one. Was there any need to ask which side Sang Pingliang would show his affection towards?


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Liu Ya¡¯s brows furrowed, ¡°Our young mistress¡¯s name is not for you to call! Which household¡¯s concubine dares to call Young Mistress by her name, worst still, when right in front of her?¡±


    The new concubine was at a delicate age and did not wish to live a difficult life. The middleman¡¯s eyes were only on the money and he sold her to an old man like Sang Pingliang to be his concubine. It would be strange if her heart felt at ease. Banking on her youthful looks, and coquetting skills, she could be said to have her way in Sang Pingliang¡¯s house. If she was angry, even Sang Pingliang had to coax her. Since when had she ever gotten such a scolding? Her face immediately flushed and she looked towards Sang Pingliang pitifully.


    Sang Pingliang was also feeling somewhat vexed. He red at Liu Ya, and reprimanded, ¡°So you know that she¡¯s a concubine? Then how can a servant like you scold a person belonging to a master in front of your own master?¡±


    Liu Ya smiled, ¡°Mister Sang, you¡¯re wrong. That youngdy does not belong to my young mistress. Should I not be protecting my young mistress when someone is being disrespectful towards her?¡±


    ¡°Your master hasn¡¯t spoken, and there¡¯ll never be your turn to talk back!¡± The new concubineughed coldly. Seeing how Sang Wan did not speak, and how gentle and peaceful she was when she first came in, the new concubine thought that Sang Wan was easy to speak to. But who knew that she would immediately be rebutted by Liu Ya.


    ¡°I will discipline my own servants myself. And that¡¯s not for this young concubine to worry about.¡± Sang Wan nced at her unenthusiastically before getting up with a smile, ¡°Second Uncle, I heard that Second Aunt got injured. I¡¯ll go and see her.¡± With that, she turned to look at the new concubine before disapproving in her heart: This new concubine is indeed not easy to deal with. Second Aunt is a woman who only knows how to throw tantrums. Up against this new concubine, Second Aunt is definitely on the losing end.


    ¡°Young Mistress Shi, please don¡¯t be angry. The moment I saw you, I could not help but take a liking to you and wanted us to have a closer rtionship. This was all because of a slip of my tongue! I¡¯m so sorry! My old lord always speaks well about you and Young Master Shi, and having heard so many times, I ended up saying your name without thinking. Please don¡¯t be angry anymore! Please forgive me this once!¡± When the new concubine saw the change in Sang Wan¡¯s expression, as well as her displeased tone, she quickly apologized with a smile.


    However, her words were dubious and they made Sang Wan unhappy. Even Liu Ya could not help butugh coldly, ¡°Young Lady, you really have no etiquette! Who are you, and who is my young mistress? Who would want you to take a liking to, and be close with? And what¡¯s with your words, they¡¯d be a joke if others were to hear!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± The new concubine fumed, ¡°You are just a servant, your position is below me, so what are you acting so arrogant for! How dare you have the guts to scold me! This is my house!¡±


    Sang Wan creased her eyebrows lightly, and she spoke to Sang Pingliang, ¡°Second Uncle, please send my greetings to Second Aunt. We won¡¯t disturb you anymore, goodbye!¡± Once she was done, she called out to Liu Ya, ¡°Hold your tongue.¡±


    Liu Ya was so angry that she shot daggers at the new concubine as she pouted her lips without speaking.


    Now, Sang Pingliang was getting anxious when he heard that she was leaving. He quickly invited Sang Wan to sit down and talk again, and fake scolded his new concubine. The new concubine had never felt so suppressed before and began an argument with him. Having observed how chaotic Sang Pingliang¡¯s had turned into, Sang Wan spoke no further and left with Liu Ya.


    Who knew that just after a few steps, they heard Sang Yan hurry down from the floor above, shouting softly, ¡°Cousin Sang Wan, my mother, my mother wants to have a few words with you...¡±


    Seeing Sang Yan begging timidly, Sang Wan halted before nodding. Bringing Liu Ya along, they headed upstairs with Sang Yan without taking a second look at the quarrel between Sang Pingliang and his new concubine.


    ¡°Quiet down now!¡± Sang Pingliang said unhappily, ¡°She is our family¡¯s important guest, there¡¯s no benefit in crossing her. If you don¡¯t stop with your nonsense and make her angrier, then you¡¯ll get it from me!¡±


    The new concubine red at Sang Pingliang andughed coldly, ¡°Get what? You¡¯ll hit me? Come then! Your important guest! Heng, even a servant dares to talk back, and you still expect them to think of you as a family? In your dreams!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s only because you spoke too much!¡± Sang Pingliang snapped, ¡°All I asked was for you to serve tea, so why must you speak so incessantly!¡±


    The new concubineughed in disdain, ¡°Day in, day out, I hear you speak about them. All I wanted was to see what kind of person she is, and after seeing her, she isn¡¯t anything special! Heng, with that sort of cotton-like personality, I think her days in arge household must not have been easy? And you still expect her to help you? Think again! Trust me, otherwise, why did Young Master Shi not apany her here?¡±


    Sang Pingliang was stuck by her words, and was at a loss of words.


    The young concubine saw how her words had influenced him and she became satisfied with herself. With a coldugh, she said, ¡°I have an idea, but I don¡¯t know whether it would be proper to say!¡±


    Sang Pingliang nced at her, ¡°Let me hear it.¡±


    The new concubine chuckled, ¡°I think Sang Rou is quite witty, why don¡¯t you let your family¡¯s Young Mistress Shi bring her back to be Young Master Shi¡¯s concubine? That way, won¡¯t you be his father-inw? Won¡¯t that be more intimate than remaining as an uncle-inw? When that timees, can the Shi family ignore your well-being? With Sang Rou there, your family¡¯s Young Mistress Shi will have another person to depend on as well!¡±


    When the new concubine first entered the household, she was soon repressed and bullied by Li Shi, just like Sang Rou, and they quickly formed an alliance. Sang Rou only had one request, and that was for the new concubine to speak well of her in front of Sang Pingliang so that her marriage could be quickly fixed. Otherwise, if another one or two years were to go by, no one would want her, even as a concubine!


    The new concubine agreed wholeheartedly, and consoled Sang Rou. However, was there still any need to have an alliance with Sang Rou to defeat Li Shi now? If not, why would she help her to speak good words so soon? Right now, even when Li Shi was pushed by her and ended up twisting her waist, Sang Pingliang could not bear to punish her. It was clear that Li Shi was no longer a threat. On top of that, having seen Sang Wan today, the new concubine¡¯s ns had moved on to Sang Wan.


    The new concubine had heard in detail from Sang Rou about Sang Wan¡¯svisheback, and there was definitely envy in her words! Surely if that girl were able to marry into the Shi family, she would be grateful to her? The Shi family was so wealthy that if even a little of that wealth were to slip through their fingers, she would be able to lead afortable life!


    Moreover, there existed some selfish and unclean thoughts in the new concubine. If someone like me had no choice but to be a concubine, then what of you, Sang Rou? Why should I help you be someone¡¯s wife? Tell me!


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s eyes brightened and he became cheerful in an instant, ¡°Right! Why didn¡¯t I think of that! But, Sang Rou ¡ª¡ª¡± Sang Pingliang creased his eyebrows. It was clear that he was dissatisfied with that daughter of his.


    The new concubineughed coldly, ¡°You only have two daughters, if not Sang Rou then Sang Yan? Hmph, Sang Yan is docile and would stutter when speaking to others, can you rely on her? Sang Rou is only scolded or beaten everyday, but if we clean her up a little, her face and personality aren¡¯t bad!¡±


    Sang Pingliang asked, ¡°Where is she right now?¡±


    ¡°There you go again with that foolishness of yours!¡± The new concubine said unhappily, ¡°Didn¡¯t Old Mistress say that she wanted to eat rice cake? Sang Rou soaked the rice in the morning, and headed over to the east side of the vige to grind the rice in Aunty Wan¡¯s house!


    Sang Pingliang creased his eyebrows and said, ¡°She only knows how to make trouble; even when she is lying in bed, she doesn¡¯t make life easy! Go and call Sang Rou back!¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± The new concubine pointed at her nose unhappily.


    ¡°If not you, then me?!¡± Sang Pingliang said unhappily.


    The new concubine grumbled and took her time to wear a thick coat before heading out.


    Sang Wan deeply regretted her choice of seeing Li Shi. Li Shi only twisted her waist and could not move around, however, that did not stop her from expressing herself. She held onto Sang Wan¡¯s hands without letting go andined all her grievances to Sang Wan, almost as if Sang Wan could help resolve them.


    Sang Wan did not know how to respond and was put in a difficult position. Without a choice, she gave a few words of constion.


    However, that made Li Shi even more aggressive, and sniffled, ¡°Only our Sang Wan is a nice person, to still have me in your heart! To still remember me! I really am born under an ill star, otherwise, how could your second uncle treat me like this! I¡¯ve apanied him all my life, and right now, that thick-skinned vixen caused me to twist my waist, yet he could not bear to even scold her! That¡¯s the same as taking away my life! Sang Wan, tell me if he deserves to be damned!¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt,¡± Sang Wan mumbled awkwardly. How could she respond appropriately to such words? At a loss of what to say, Sang Wan persuaded her to rest well.


    ¡°Young Mistress, I think Young Master will be looking for you now. Let¡¯s head back and let Aunt Sang rest properly.¡± Liu Ya found her chance to speak.


    Just when Sang Wan was about to agree, Li Shi interjected, ¡°Nevermind me! I¡¯ve more than enough rest already, any more and mold will start growing on me. Sang Wan, stay and talk to me more! Sang Wan, Second Aunt really loves you, Sang Wan, you have to help Second Aunt!¡±


    <b></b>

 Chapter 189 - Disfigured

    <strong>Chapter 189: Disfigured</strong>


    ¡°Everything will be fine once your body recovers!¡± Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°And isn¡¯t there still Cousin Sang Yan? She will take good care of you!¡±


    ¡°Ah Yan,¡± Li Shi quickly called Sang Yan over after hearing Sang Wan, and forcefully squeezed Sang Yan and Sang Wan¡¯s hands tightly together, ¡°Sang Wan, I only have one daughter, if she doesn¡¯t have somewhere to settle down, I won¡¯t be able to die peacefully! Sang Wan, I can¡¯t expect anything from her father, so please help me take good care of Ah Yan in the future. You have to promise me, okay? Second Aunt is begging you!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Yan¡¯s eyes reddened and she teared up.


    ¡°Foolish girl, why are you crying! Sang Wan, I beg of you!¡± Li Shi looked pitifully at Sang Wan.


    Liu Ya stood at the side and watched helplessly. Deep down, she thought to herself: Now you know how to beg our young mistress? Why don¡¯t you look at all the things you did in the past! Our young mistress¡¯ reputation was almost tarnished by your words! Anyway, how could you want our young mistress to take responsibility when you and Old Mister Sang are still around? That¡¯s absolutely brazen!


    ¡°Second Aunt, you should take good care of your body. Let¡¯s not speak about this anymore! You and Second Uncle are still here, no one will dare to bully Ah Yan!¡± Sang Wan finally could not hold herself back and mustered the strength to free her hands. She got up with a smile and said, ¡°Second Aunt, you shouldn¡¯t think too much and rest well! In the future when Ah Yan finds a good partner, I will definitely help add to her dowry and give my well wishes!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, are you still angry with Second Aunt! Second Aunt willpensate you, okay?¡± Li Shi panicked when she saw Sang Wan leaving.


    ¡°I¡¯m not. Second Aunt, have a good rest. I have to head back first! If not, my big sister-inw will be worried!¡± Sang Wan smiled and headed downstairs with Liu Ya.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Sang Pingliang had a huge smile on his face as he spoke, ¡°Why don¡¯t you apany your second aunt a little while more? Why are youing down so soon?¡±


    That the new concubine was not around, and Sang Pingliang smiling with an unusual friendliness; Sang Wan found it strange. All of a sudden, she had an ominous premonition and quickly gave a perfunctory smile before leaving without any regard to his persistence in making her stay. Together with Liu Ya, they left Sang Pingliang¡¯s house as if making a quick escape.


    ¡°Ai, this Sang Wan¡¯s wings are stiff, and her heart is cold! She looks down on us now!¡± Upstairs, Li Shi could be seen sighing heavily at her daughter while holding onto her hands, ¡°Mother is really worried about you! If you don¡¯t marry well, how can I be at ease!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Yan had a dominant mother since young and had never experienced any real hardships outside. Getting married would mean leaving her mother¡¯s side; after hearing her mother worry about her marriage, she instantly panicked, ¡°Mother, I don¡¯t want to get married yet! I still want to apany you! Mother, please don¡¯t think too much. Didn¡¯t the doctor say that you¡¯ll recover after a few days? Why do you sound so serious ¡ª¡ª you¡¯re scaring me!¡±


    Li Shi saw how delicate and fragile her daughter looked, and her heart softened. No words coulde out of her mouth and she could only let out a soft sigh.


    ¡°Mother,¡± Sang Yan called out hesitantly before speaking again after another short pause, ¡°At the corner of the stairs just now, I heard father and his concubine talk about ¡ª¡ª¡±


    Before she could finish, Li Shi spat and scolded, ¡°What concubine! That vixen is no concubine of ours!¡± Then she asked again, ¡°And what did they talk about?¡±


    Sang Yan looked at her mother timidly and told her about how Sang Pingliang and the new concubine were nning to present Sang Rou to Shi Fengju to be his concubine.


    ¡°Outrageous!¡± Li Shi was fuming with anger when she heard about it. The pain in her waist was immediately forgotten and she jerked herself up, only to groan loudly in pain soon after. She punched the mattress and said resentfully, ¡°So that small vixen and silly old man devised a scheme! As if such a brat could match up to the Shi family! She should just take a look at herself in the mirror first!¡±


    Most importantly, how could she feel happy about seeing Sang Rou rise to a higher branch after marrying into the Shi family? How could she bear to see her enjoy all the delicacies and put on beautiful clothes?


    ¡°I will definitely not allow that! Call your father here and say that I wish to see him!¡± Li Shi said resentfully, ¡°When Sang Rou is back, call her here too! Just tell her that her father is here as well, and has something to say to her!¡± Li Shi knew that she could not get out of bed, and Sang Yan would not be able to urge Sang Rou toe. With the help of the vixen, it was more likely that Sang Rou would not listen. As such, only by mentioning Sang Pingliang would shee.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sang Yan nodded her head.


    Presenting Sang Rou to Shi Fengju as a concubine was a big matter that could not be hidden from Li Shi, who was the old mistress of the Sang household. In any case, it did not ur to Sang Pingliang that Li Shi would refuse, so when he heard that Li Shi wished to see him, he was thinking about letting her know about his n!


    It was fortunate that before Li Shi could speak, Sang Pingliang had already snatched the chance to tell her about his n. She was able to hold back her anger even though it was already boiling within her and remain calm on the surface. With a smile, she continued to feign civility with Sang Pingliang.


    When Sang Rou returned and went upstairs, she indeed saw her father there. Thinking that what her parents wished to talk about was the same as what the concubine had exined to her, she was very ted and smiled gleefully, ¡°Father, Mother, you wished to see me?¡±


    Sang Pingliang examined her from top to bottom. Seeing her good figure, bright and beautiful eyes, and her slightly thin lips, although her appearance was not as outstanding as Sang Wan¡¯s, she was definitely not too far off! With a change of clothes and some makeup on, she would definitely be epted!


    Sang Pingliang became more satisfied the more he looked, as if he was examining an expensive product, and the smile on his face broadened. Sang Rou noticed his expression and felt as if she could soar in the sky. She tightened her grasp around her finger helplessly while giving a shy smile and lowering her gaze as she stood at a side. That made her look even more lovely.


    ****! Just like that vixen ****! Li Shi was extremely furious, but she quickly inhaled arge breath before smiling, ¡°That¡¯s good! Come over here, I¡¯ve a few words I¡¯d like to say to you.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother.¡± Sang Rou¡¯s heart was filled with joy, would she remain on the alert when in front of Li Shi? Furthermore, this matter was already decided by her father. No matter how Li Shi wished to prevent it, there was no way she¡¯d seed. Her mind was only thinking about the good days ahead of her and how her stepmother would have to fawn over her in the future, just like how she treated Sang Wan after marriage!


    Unexpectedly, the moment Sang Rou approached the bed and was near it, Li Shi grabbed her hand and pulled her forcefully. While holding onto a silver hairpin on another hand, Li Shi shed at her face while cursing hatefully, ¡°Why don¡¯t you look at yourself in the mirror and see what you are! How dare you think about marrying into the Shi family! Is that even a family that you can marry into!¡±


    ¡°What are you doing!¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Sang Rou shrieked as she pulled herself away. Touching her face, her hand was covered in blood. She screamed and sobbed loudly as she turned and ran off.


    ¡°You, you, you!¡± Sang Pingliang was so angry that his finger that was pointing at Li Shi was trembling and no words could leave his mouth as he red at her.


    Li Shi was startled by Sang Rou¡¯s forceful push to escape from her clutches when she let out a shriek before running away. Cold sweat formed on her face and it darkened as she red hatefully at Sang Pingliang while letting out a coldugh, ¡°Me? What me? This old woman is still around, so that brat better not think about trying to clinch onto a prestigious family! Haha, I want to see now, after her face is ruined, what else she can use to seduce others!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Sang Pingliang sneered coldly, ¡°Fine then, she won¡¯t go. I¡¯ll make Ah Yan go. After all, someone has to go!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare think about it!¡± Li Shiughed coldly, ¡°I¡¯ve already spoken to Sang Wan just now. Sang Wan promised to find a good marriage partner for Ah Yan! Hmph, I dare you to try sending her there!¡±


    Sang Pingliang was stunned and was at a loss for words. So now, Sang Wan would never ept Sang Yan. Besides, Sang Pingliang did not like Sang Yan¡¯s character to begin with and was not confident in her.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± He pulled up his sleeves and left.


    Li Shiid in bed whileughing coldly to herself. After getting over the pain on her waist, she started to think of ways she could sell the ¡®favor¡¯ she had done for Sang Wan and make her remember her good deed.


    After all, she had helped Sang Wan to chase away a ¡°strong rival¡±. She was also a woman and knew how much a woman detested her husband getting a concubine, so why would Sang Wan be an exception? Knowing that she helped solve such a troubling problem for her, surely Sang Wan could not have no gratitude at all?


    By the time Sang Wan and Liu Ya returned, the vigers that were apanying the guests had already left and Shi Fengju was speaking to Sang Hong and Fang Shi. Seeing Sang Wan, Shi Fengju smiled at her, ¡°What took you so long? I was about to ask Big Sister-inw to call for you!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled, sat beside him, and said, ¡°Second Aunt is bedridden, and had quite a lot of things to say.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, that¡¯s only to you!¡± Fang Shi¡¯s mouth was never merciful, and she asked, ¡°How is she? It isn¡¯t too serious, right?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Herplexion was quite good. She should be fine after a few days!¡±


    Fang Shi did not ask any further.


    At noon, Shi Fengju had a little bit of alcohol. Not too long after, Sang Wan and Liu Ya helped him to Sang Wan¡¯s room to rest. Sang Quan and Sang Nuan were very attached to their aunt who they had not seen for a very long time, so after settling Shi Fengju down, Sang Wan went out to y with them. Shi Fengju watched as she left, and let out a soft sigh before closing his eyes to rest.


    The day passed in a blink of an eye, and everyone returned to their rooms to rest not long after dinner. Shi Fengju finally found an opportunity to be intimate with Sang Wan, and hugged her as he chuckled softly, ¡°Sang Wan, do you remember? The first time when we slept on the same bed was in this room of yours!¡±


    His words sounded questionable and Sang Wan red at him jokingly, ¡°What nonsense! If someone were to hear you, it sounds like, sounds like ¡ª¡ª¡± It sounded as if they had an inappropriate rtionship before marriage!


    ¡°There is only me and you, what¡¯s there to be afraid of!¡± Shi Fengju nuzzled his face against hers beforeughing gently, ¡°Sang Wan, did you know, I wanted to hug and love you at that time, but you were so cold towards me!¡± Shi Fengju could not help but feel indignant and seemed to want to make it up. As such, hisrge pair of hands began to touch inappropriately.


    ¡°Stop it!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly stopped his hand with all strength and bit her lip as she said under breath, ¡°Don¡¯t mess around! This isn¡¯t our house!¡±


    Her big brother and sister-inw were in the room right next to theirs. If they were to make too much noise and someone heard them, where would she have the face to see them!


    ¡°What are you afraid of!¡± Shi Fengju was in the heat of the moment and would not concede.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face blushed and her strength left her body. She breathed heavily as she struggled, but that only made her seem hard to get. Without a choice, she tried a softer approach and whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t be rash!¡±


    Shi Fengju let out a deepughter and whispered into her ears, ¡°I don¡¯t care about anything else now. I only have you in my eyes...¡±


    After a round of being intimate, they were covered with sweat. Shi Fengju kicked a nket towards the corner andughed, ¡°Your sister-inw still remembered that we¡¯d feel cold in the night, and did not forget to prepare another nket for us.¡±


    The previous time when they were here, they were still a fake couple so each of them used a nket. Sang Wan lied to Fang Shi that she was afraid of the cold, but she did not expect Fang Shi to remember that and prepared another nket for them.


    Upon hearing him, Sang Wan smiled, ¡°My sister-inw has always been a very meticulous person. She will always remember after hearing it once, but you are mocking her now because of that!¡±


    Shi Fengju pulled her into his embrace and smiled, ¡°I wasn¡¯t mocking her, I just found the whole situation funny! Sang Wan, isn¡¯t it weird that we¡¯ve always been sleeping in the same room every night yet we could still hold ourselves back in the past! Right now, I can¡¯t get used to being without you!¡±


    Sang Wan instantly thought of the words spoken by her big sister-inw in the day, and the thought of Gu Fangzi suddenly surfaced in her head. Unable to hold herself back, she spoke sourly, ¡°Really? When you have someone else, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll naturally get used to not having me anymore! Our household¡¯s Miss Gu will be ending her mourning period next month, am I right?¡±


    ¡°Are you jealous? En?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes glimmered and he pulled her smooth and petite chin closer to him as he asked with avid interest.


    Sang Wan saw how he acted and felt even more sour. She turned her head away in a fit of pique and said indifferently, ¡°As long as you are happy, how could I dare to be jealous? Aren¡¯t all women like this, it¡¯s not a matter that can be changed just because I am jealous!¡± After saying that, she could not help but feel a surge of disappointment within her.


    ¡°My foolish Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju sighed softly. He pulled her face back andughed softly, ¡°I still remember the promise I made with you, so don¡¯t you worry! After I go back, I will speak to Mother about it first. I can¡¯t bear to let my Sang Wan be overly jealous and sour!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled embarrassingly, ¡°Who¡¯s getting jealous! Don¡¯t be ridiculous!¡± But she could not help but worry and said hesitantly, ¡°Mother, she ¡ª¡ª cares a lot for your cousin, will she ¡ª¡ª think that I was the one who asked you to do this, what if she bes frustrated at me? Fengju, if Mother is frustrated at me, I will feel uneasy in my heart as well! When you are speaking to your mother about it, please tread carefully!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Fengju saw that she was still concerned about his mother¡¯s feelings and was feeling very relieved. He kissed her face lightly and said softly, ¡°Mother won¡¯t be suspicious of you, I know how I should say to her.¡±


    Sang Wan was finally relieved and smiled at him softly.


    Shi Fengju pinched her soft waist and acted as if he was angry and said grudgingly, ¡°So you actually didn¡¯t believe me before, so how should I punish you, huh?¡±


    Sang Wan met his stare and was feeling a little guilty. She lowered her eyes and mumbled, ¡°I, I¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°You what, ¡° Shi Fengju pinched again, much harder this time, and said grudgingly in her ears, ¡°You¡¯ll see how I will deal with you when we go back!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart wavered and she whimpered without speaking as she continued to cuddle in his embrace. Shi Fengju heart was tickled by her unexpected intimacy and he could not hold himself back from hugging her and making out again. Only after midnight did they finally fall asleep.


    The next day, after noon, they said reluctantly goodbye and took the carriage home.


    They did not sleep wellst night, and Sang Wan felt a little tired after a while inside the horse carriage. Last night they did not sleep well, and not long after being in the horse carriage, Sang Wan felt a little tired. Her eyes closed slightly before Shi Fengju hugged her against him, ¡°Just lean against me and sleep, I am here!¡±


    Sang Wan opened her eyes a little, ¡°En? You, aren¡¯t you tired?¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and kissed her forehead, ¡°I am not tired, I¡¯ll hold onto you.¡±


    Sang Wan softly conceded and closed her eyes as she leaned against him. After a while, her breathing became even and gentle.


    This was the first time Shi Fengju saw her sleep so soundly. Seeing her soft and fair skin, her beautiful face which gave off a gentle aura, her lips that were pressed lightly together, and her longshes, it made him want to love her even more and the corner of his lips curled slightly as he looked at her with loving eyes.

 Chapter 190 - Nightmare

    <strong>Chapter 190: Nightmare</strong>


    After some time, Sang Wan suddenly jerked. It was as if she was having a nightmare, and her breathing turned messy. Her eyebrows were creased together and her serene expression was filled with pain and anxiety. Shi Fengju was startled and wanted to wake her up, but she suddenly cried out, ¡°Lord! Lord!¡± That voice was full of despair and contained arge amount of pain in it which caused shivers down his spine.


    ¡°Sang Wan! Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju was frightened by her sudden change and gently shook her to wake her up, ¡°Sang Wan, wake up, wake up. Did you have a nightmare? Quickly, wake up!¡±


    For a long while, Sang Wan just stared nkly as if she was immersed in some sort of inexplicable state of mind. Her immense pain and sadness was something Shi Fengju had never seen before in his life. He could not help but think to himself just what kind of pain she had gone through to have such an expression. Just what happened to Sang Wan!


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan¡±, Shi Fengju became a little anxious and held her hand tightly as he lowered his head to kiss her cheek, ¡°Sang Wan, did you have a nightmare? Don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯m here. Lord is here, Sang Wan!¡±


    Sang Wan raised her gaze stiffly to look at Shi Fengju, her clear eyes covered with tears. After a moment, she finally returned to her senses and said coarsely, ¡°Lord?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Shi Fengju saw that she had returned to her senses and secretly heaved a huge sigh of relief, tightening the hand that was around hers as he smiled, ¡°Aren¡¯t I apanying you here? Did you have a nightmare? En?¡±


    Sang Wan was stunned. She shook her head, then nodded again. What she had dreamt of just now was about her past life when she was all by herself to endure the pain. There, her head ached badly and she was feeling feverish, cold and hungry, but there was no one who cared about her.


    Her life or death, nobody cared at all! Even she did not care anymore as another moment of living was nothing but torture.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid,¡± Her pained expression made Shi Fengju¡¯s heart ache and he subconsciously wiped the tears off her eyes as he said gently, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t be afraid! Don¡¯t be fooled, it¡¯s only a bad dream!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sang Wan asked in a daze. Was it really just a dream?


    Shi Fengju said with amusement, ¡°Of course, look, am I not right beside you?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s nose turned sour and she could not help but lean on Shi Fengju while sobbing heavily. It was only a bad dream, just a distant dream! He was right beside her, at this moment, he was really just right beside her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart sank all of a sudden, and he patted her back as he consoled her in a gentle tone. Her despaired crying made Shi Fengju think twice about whether it was really a dream or something which she had gone through personally! After realizing that point, it made him feel even more ufortable.


    It took a good while before Sang Wan¡¯s crying gradually became a soft sob. Shi Fengju slowly let go of her and took her handkerchief to wipe her tears. His heart was in anguish upon seeing her red swollen eyes and he asked gently, ¡°Sang Wan, what did you dream of to make you this upset!¡±


    Hearing him, Sang Wan felt pain in her heart again and she whimpered in between her sobs, ¡°I dreamt, I dreamt of you no longer wanting me! I¡ª¡ª¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart felt as if he had received several blows and his face turned extremely pale. He pulled her into his strong embrace with one jerk and clenched his teeth to say every word clearly, ¡°What are you saying! Why would I not want you! You are not allowed to have such dreams anymore!¡± Her dream seemed so surreal!


    Sang Wan said with difficulty, ¡°You¡¯re holding me too tightly, I can¡¯t breathe!¡±


    Shi Fengju quickly let go of her, but continued to cup her face up and said in a fit, ¡°Sang Wan, why would you have such a crazy dream! Why would I not want you! Promise me that you will not overthink in the future!¡±


    Sang Wan could feel a bittersweet feeling deep down, and she thought to herself: It isn¡¯t a crazy dream, but something I¡¯ve experienced! Lord, you did abandon me before like an item without value. It was real and not a dream! However, that previous life is something that seemed far away, and thinking about it now, even I feel as if that is just a dream!


    Sang Wan forced a smile and nodded quietly, ¡°Lord, I¡¯m just a little afraid¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk about it anymore,¡± Shi Fengju covered her mouth and said gently, ¡°I¡¯m here, and I won¡¯t allow you to think too much! I will help you resolve all your problems.¡±


    Sang Wan stopped speaking, and rested in his embrace quietly. Shi Fengju lowered his head to look at the gentle girl in his arms and could not help but lift her face to stare deeply into her eyes. This was his wife, the love of his life. And the fact that she had such a surreal dream of him abandoning her made him feel incredibly frustrated and distressed.


    After returning to the Shi household, Sang Wan and Shi Fengju each became very busy. It was the month when they had to visit rtives and friends, receive them as guests, and have New Year dinner. As the new daughter-inw, Wang Shi would naturally bring her along wherever she went. In just a span of eleven or twelve days, even Sang Wan lost count of how many people she had seen and spoken to.


    Ever since Shi Fengming left home, Second Old Mistress Shi would never go out to receive guests or visit rtives. Luckily, Third Old Mistress Shi was around this year to help share some of Wang Shi¡¯s burden, which relieved much of Sang Wan¡¯s responsibility.


    Wang Shi had always found such practice tiresome, with the exception of two or three families that were particrly close. She mentioned to Sang Wan before visiting another household, ¡°Remember all these people. Next year, I won¡¯t being along anymore. You¡¯ll have to handle them yourself!¡± That made Sang Wan even more nervous.


    On the twelfth day, Zhuang Weixian and a few other close friends asked Shi Fengju out to gather for a meal. Those with partners were bringing along their wives, thus, Shi Fengju informed Wang Shi that he would be bringing along Sang Wan to the gathering.


    ¡°These few days must¡¯ve tired you out. Tonight, the people who we will be meeting are friends that I am very close with, so you don¡¯t have to care much about etiquette there.¡± Shi Fengju held his wife¡¯s small face lovingly and smiled.


    Sang Wan hit his hands away andughed, ¡°Then why don¡¯t I just skip it and rest at home instead? Won¡¯t that be better?¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°All my friends have never seen you before. Their wives will be going, so naturally mine has to go as well!¡±


    Sang Wan burst outughing before saying, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll go. But I don¡¯t know much about acting within my social status, so if I ended up throwing your face, you mustn¡¯t me me!¡±


    ¡°My wife is the best woman in the world, so why would you throw my face? Think of how many people out there who are jealous of me having married such a wonderful woman!¡± Nowadays, Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes shone extremely brightly whenever he talked about his wife.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red from his words and she tutted at him softly.


    The banquet was set at Lotus Jade Restaurant, and the five or six people, other than Zhuang Weixian, brought along their wives. They were all prominent people in Qingzhou city, and after the initial greeting and catching up, the men felt bonded again. Their partners had heard from them about how Shi Fengju and Gu Fangzi were childhood sweethearts, and therefore had many doubts regarding Sang Wan. When they finally met Sang Wan, seeing how gentle, elegant, and knowledgeable she was, they instantly developed a liking towards her. Watching how extremely protective Shi Fengju was over her, it was clear that their rtionship was amicable. Everyone could not help butment at how different the wife and concubine were. Just from the aura she gave off, it was different from an ordinary person!


    Everyone gathered had an extremely good time. Only when the moon was high up in the starry night sky did they finally head for home joyfully.

 Chapter 191 - Seen By Mother-in-law

    <strong>Chapter 191: Seen By Mother-inw</strong>


    When Sang Wan and Shi Fengju got off the carriage at the second gate, they noticed specks of snowkes gradually falling from the sky.


    ¡°We¡¯re lucky to be back now. If the snow gets any heavier, it¡¯ll be hard for us to get home!¡± Sang Wan wrapped her coat tightly around herself and rubbed her hands


    ¡°I¡¯m here with you! What¡¯s there to be afraid of!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and held her hand, ¡°Come, be careful. The floor is slippery!¡±


    Ever since that dream she had, he ced even more of his attention on her for fear of her thinking too much. Whenever he thought about how much she relied on him and how sad she must have been because he left her inside her dream, there was an indescribable feeling in his heart. He felt distressed yet happy at the same time, because she was finally dependent on him and treated him like an actual husband.


    ¡°Ah!¡± As soon as Shi Fengju spoke, Sang Wan almost slipped and fell onto the slippery ground.


    ¡°Look at you¡ª¡ª¡± Shi Fengju held her firmly andughed, ¡°I ended up warning you in vain!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°That¡¯s because they kept making me drink a few cups. Right now, when the wind blows, my head feels a little dizzy.¡±


    Shi Fengju looked around him. There was only Liu Ya and two other servants following them. As such, he lifted Sang Wan up andughed, ¡°Then don¡¯t drink next time. You¡¯ll only feel unwell if you do! I¡¯ll carry you so that you won¡¯t end up swaying and falling again!¡±


    ¡°No! Put... put me down!¡± Sang Wan was frightened! They were now inside the household which was still considered a public ce! If he carried her and paraded around, people would surelyugh at them if they saw them! How would she continue to manage the servants as the Young Mistress of the Shi household?


    ¡°Don¡¯t move about!¡± Shi Fengju held her tightly with both arms andughed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t bump into anyone at this time! These are all our servants, what are you afraid of? If you move too much, both of us might end up falling. It all depends on you!¡±


    Sang Wan opened her mouth but couldn¡¯t find any words to refute. She gazed bluntly at Shi Fengju with eyes that were as bright as stars and her cheeks blushed even redder. Shi Fengju found her adorable and he lowered his head to give her a light kiss on her cheek, which made Sang Wan even more embarrassed. She let out a soft hum and hit him lightly before leaning against his chest. Shi Fengju chuckled and headed towards Ning Garden1 while carrying his wife.


    Liu Ya and the rest pretended as if they did not see anything between the two.


    Suddenly, Sang Wan felt her husband stop in his tracks, his muscles tightening. She asked faintly, ¡°Have we arrived? Quickly let me down!¡±


    ¡°Mother...¡±


    The word that Shi Fengju said with a forced smile felt like a crash of thunder by her ear. Her mind immediately went nk and she hurriedly struggled to get down, stumbling as she stood. She was so ashamed that she did not dare to look, ¡°Mother...¡±


    ¡°What... what were the two of you doing!¡± Wang Shi, who was surrounded by a crowd of servants, returned to her senses and felt a burst of dizziness as she was fairly enraged!


    Great, just great, this is just great!


    That was her dear daughter-inw whom she was extremely satisfied with and could not stop praising. But how could this daughter-inw of hers torment her son like that right behind her back? Did she not have her own feet? Did she not know how to walk? How could she ask her son to carry her in the dark!


    If it wasn¡¯t because she was returningte at this hour after bringing several servants to visit her ill daughter in Jiao Garden, she would not have seen such an infuriating scene!


    Sang Wan wished she could find a ce to hide her embarrassment. She looked down and did not dare to make a sound while secretlyining in her mind. She was now in trouble, her mother-inw must be despising her! This was all Shi Fengju¡¯s fault, she would not have ended up in this situation if not for him being carried away on a whim.


    Shi Fengju was shocked as well. He was perfectly happy treating his wife nicely and loving her dearly, but they just had to bump into his mother. Really¡ª¡ª


    Shi Fengju did not know what to do at that moment as he watched Nanny Jiang hold his mother-inw with a face of displeasure while the rest of the servants, together with Xiu Chun and Xiu Li, were nibbling hard on their lips as they tried not tough.


    ¡°Mother!¡± He quickly went forward to hold Wang Shi and forced a smile, ¡°Why has Mother not rested yet at such ate hour!¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi snorted coldly and red at him fiercely as she secretly scolded him in her heart: You good-for-nothing child! What kind of grown man would y around with his wife like this! Are you not afraid of others seeing you?¡±


    ¡°Mother, Sang Wan drank a little tonight so her head was a little dizzy. I was worried that she might fall, so I...¡±


    ¡°Hm, she drank a little?¡± Wang Shi said coldly, ¡°Here I thought her legs wereme so she couldn¡¯t walk!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju frowned and smiled bitterly, ¡°Could you not say such ominous words, it¡¯s still the new year...¡±


    ¡°What? I can¡¯t even make ament? Does this Mother look objectionable to you?¡± Wang Shi got even more angry and she shook his hands off before striding forward angrily without ncing at Sang Wan.


    ¡°Old Mistress, please slow down!¡± Nanny Jiang quickly went up to support her while signalling for the rest to keep up.


    Shi Fengju seized the chance to pull Sang Wan by her sleeve before saying softly, ¡°Sang Wan, this is all my fault. Please understand. Once we¡¯re back at Ning Garden, you can punish me however you want...¡±


    What is he saying? Sang Wan was angry yet amused at the same time. She nced at Shi Fengju before keeping up with the rest.


    The two of them stood by Wang Shi¡¯s left and right side respectively. Nanny Jiang, Xiu Chun and the rest moved to a side tactfully to make space for them.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi shook their hands away, repulsed, and said, ¡°Why are you still following me? Go back now!¡±


    ¡°Mother, we will walk you back first! Don¡¯t be angry anymore, it isn¡¯t good to spoil your health at the beginning of the new year!¡± Shi Fengju quickly forced a smile.


    ¡°En, Mother...¡± Sang Wan forced an unnatural smile on her face.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi sneered and said, ¡°Enough! You can stop pretending in front of me! I¡¯m sure you must be secretlyining about me deep inside your heart! Don¡¯t think that I don¡¯t know!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡±


    ¡°This daughter-inw wouldn¡¯t dare!¡±


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan hurriedly denied. Even though Wang Shi was mad at them, Shi Fengju still held her forcefully while Sang Wan took antern from Xiu Chun to light the way ahead as she was not Wang Shi¡¯s daughter.


    Wang Shi kept a straight face without saying another word regardless what Shi Fengju spoke.


    After they had arrived at the main courtyard, Wang Shi looked at both of them coldly and said, ¡°Alright, stop being an eyesore here and go back now!¡± That was enough of a show!


    ¡°There¡¯s no rush, ¡°Shi Fengju quicklyughed, ¡°We¡¯ll go back once Mother goes to rest. Mother, where did you return from at such ate hour?¡± As he spoke, he helped Wang Shi into her room. Sang Wan quickly passed thentern back to Xiu Chun and went forward to help Wang Shi take off her coat.


    Seeing that both of them were trying to please her, her anger gradually disappeared. She couldn¡¯t help but sigh when Shi Fengju asked, ¡°Where else would I be other than Jiao Garden? Your big sister was fine before, so how did she fall ill! Ah, all I do as a mother is worry about all of you, when will I get to live my life peacefully!¡±


    ¡°The weather has been cold these past few days, it¡¯s hard not to catch a cold. Mother, don¡¯t worry, Big Sister will be alright.¡± Shi Fengju quickly smiled andforted her before asking if a doctor hade to see her.


    Wang Shi nodded and said, ¡°The doctor has given her some medicine to take. I only left her side after seeing her take her medicine! From the way I see it, she isn¡¯t simply ill, and when I asked her, she didn¡¯t want to tell me. Hmph, help me ask about itter and see if your big brother-inw has done something again!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head, ¡°I understand, Mother. This is our home, if Big Brother-inw ever dares to do anything to Big Sister, I will definitely not let him off!¡±


    Wang Shi frowned and said, ¡°We can¡¯t get too involved since their matters are between them as a couple. Otherwise, it¡¯ll be your sister who suffers!¡±


    ¡°Enough, enough, let¡¯s not talk about it anymore!¡± Wang Shi waved irritably and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to bed now, so go back quickly! Stop being an eyesore here!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Then we¡¯lle back again tomorrow to greet Mother. We¡¯ll be leaving now!¡±


    Wang Shi snorted and looked coldly at Sang Wan, ¡°How are you feeling now? Can you still walk? Do you need me to get you some hangover soup?¡±


    Sang Wan was feeling extremely embarrassed and she hurriedly forced a smile, ¡°Your daughter-inw... I can walk by myself, I wouldn¡¯t dare to let Mother worry for me...¡±


    Wang Shi let out another snort without saying another word. Shi Fengju and Sang Wan said their goodbyes and left.


    Once they were out of the main courtyard, the two of them heaved a sigh of relief. Shi Fengju quickly held Sang Wan¡¯s hands and said regretfully, ¡°Sang Wan, it was all my fault!¡±


    You still have the cheek to say! Sang Wan rolled her eyes at him. However, he did only do so out of kindness, and it was her bad luck to me as well. Thinking about it, Sang Wan let out a bitter smile and sighed, ¡°I can¡¯t me it all on you, my luck was bad as well!¡±


    Sang Wan secretly anticipated that she might not be able to enjoy any peace for the next few days. No matter what, she should still serve her mother-inw tamely until her anger finally subsided.


    Shi Fengju quickly smiled andforted her with a hug, ¡°Don¡¯t take it to heart. If Mother vents her anger on you, once we are back to Ning Garden, I won¡¯t get frustrated at you no matter how much you were to get angry at me!¡±


    ¡°Let go of your hands!¡± Sang Wan pushed his hands that were around her and said, ¡°Am I such an unreasonable person to you? Why would I make trouble for you out of nothing?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°Yes, yes, my wife is the most virtuous! In any case, it was my fault for causing you trouble! Don¡¯t worry, I will be more careful in the future. ¡°


    Sang Wan looked at him and didn¡¯t make a sound. Only that she could feel her blood freezing at the thought of what was toe the next day.


    The more Wang Shi thought about it, the enraged she was. Just when she was about to take a sip from her cup, she suddenly mmed it onto the tea table and snorted angrily, ¡°Nanny Jiang, what do you say? Was I too kind as a mother-inw and spoiled her?¡±


    Nanny Jiang panicked and forced a smile, ¡°Old Mistress, your temper has always been good, and everyone in the household knows! Young Mistress always disys her fullest courtesy towards you and has never made any decisions by herself. Knowing full well about that, surely she isn¡¯t unruly!¡±


    ¡°Are you speaking for her?¡± Wang Shi kept feeling sour whenever she recalled the scene, and she said, ¡°You¡¯ve seen it tonight! That was her husband! Did she not know that she should always obey her husband as a wife? How.. .how could she torment my son like that? Hmph, she even dared to do that in front of me, who knows what else my son has been suffering behind my back! That child is also another good for nothing. How can he allow his wife to climb over his head?¡±


    The rage in Wang Shi kept burning. That was her son whom she had loved wholeheartedly and been proud of since young. She could never have the heart to let her son suffer and did her best to not inconvenience him. But look at what happened, he actually carried his wife on the long path home on such ate night! If she had not bumped into them, he might have carried her all the way back to Ning Garden!


    Whatever next! The son whom she had taken care of wholeheartedly was not to be a drudge for another woman.

 Chapter 192 - The Standards Must Be Enforced

    <strong>Chapter 192: The Standards Must Be Enforced</strong>


    ¡°Old Mistress, please calm down¡± Nanny Jiang quickly smiled and said, ¡°This old servant thinks that it isn¡¯t as serious as what you think! Young Mistress has always been nice and caring towards Young Master! Just think about what kind of a person Young Master is, Old Mistress! He¡¯s not someone who will be easily controlled by a woman, is he? Young Master has already exined himself regarding tonight¡¯s incident, hasn¡¯t he? He was just worried about Young Mistress stumbling because she drank more than she should. And Young Mistress isn¡¯t someone who would behave inappropriately, she would definitely not have done so if not for that reason! What¡¯s more, it¡¯s also a good thing that they are getting along well! If they were like Eldest Missy and her husband, think about how worried you¡¯d have to be!¡±


    Wang Shi turned speechless from her words and she let out a soft sigh, ¡°Your reasoning isn¡¯t something I don¡¯t understand! Of course I¡¯m happy that they have a good rtionship, or am I suppose to expect my son and daughter-inw to argue non-stop and turn the entire household upside down? It¡¯s just that I never expected Sang Wan to not know the importance of keeping her conduct! Weren¡¯t there still servants following her? Even if she was a little drunk, was it not enough to have them hold her? Why make my Fengju carry her... It really is maddening!¡±


    Nanny Jiang opened her mouth but quickly closed it tactfully for what she had said just then had all turned to nothing! The old mistress¡¯s way of thinking was still the same as before.


    ¡°Then, what do you n to do, Old Mistress...¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi sneered and said, ¡°I was too negligent in the past, but I have to start teaching her well from tomorrow onwards. She needs to learn that she mustn¡¯t forget her conduct when in public!¡±


    Nanny Jiang secretly sighed as she thought to herself: Why must Old Mistress poke her nose into the young couple¡¯s personal matters? Why did she have to make a mountain out of a molehill!


    However, Nanny Jiang was clear about Wang Shi¡¯s character. She would neverpromise once her decision had been made and would see it all the way to the end! Now, all Nanny Jiang could wish was for Young Mistress to be rational enough not to have any ill feelings towards Old Mistress because of this.


    On the next day, Sang Wan got up earlier than usual. She hurriedly washed herself up before bringing Liu Ya with her to greet Wang Shi. Nanny Li and Zhide were puzzled as they did not know about the incident that happened the previous night. As such, they smiled and asked, ¡°Young Mistress, why not go after having your breakfast? Is there something urgent that you have to discuss with Old Mistress today?¡±


    Without mentioning about what happenedst night, Sang Wan nodded vaguely and smiled, ¡°There is indeed something urgent. I¡¯ll be going first so all of you will have to serve Young Master for his breakfast!¡±


    When Sang Wan arrived, Wang Shi had not gotten up yet. She did not dare to take a seat as well, so she stood outside in the living room and waited quietly.


    Soon after Wang Shi got up, she heard from Nanny Jiang that the young mistress has arrived early in the morning to greet her and was standing in the living room waiting for her.


    Wang Shi snorted and said, ¡°That¡¯s quite sensible of her!¡± As she said, she slowly enjoined the servants to help her change and wash up. It took her quite a while before she got out of her room.


    ¡°Mother!¡± When Sang Wan saw Wang Shi, her face immediately blushed and she lowered her gaze awkwardly. She had already been made awkward before when she first arrived and was faced with Xiu Chun, Xiu Li and the rest. Luckily, they were all servants and she had always been treating them nicely. Adding to the fact that everyone could see that she was the one in Young Master¡¯s heart, no one wouldugh at her just to feel contented temporarily. On the contrary, they were afraid of her feeling ufortable, so all of them remained calm as usual and did not show any signs of being surprised about hering over so early in the morning to greet Wang Shi.


    That more or less relieved Sang Wan¡¯s tightened heart. However, it was a totally different feeling the moment she saw Wang Shi! She couldn¡¯t forget about her mother-inw¡¯s fierce wordsst night.


    Seeing that her face was red with embarrassment and she was feeling nervous, Wang Shi actually felt better and she thought to herself that at least she had a sense of shame and knew that she was in the wrongst night. She wasn¡¯t beyond redemption after all!


    ¡°En!¡± Wang Shi nodded lightly and sat on the high seat.


    Sang Wan quickly went forward and greeted her before Wang Shi waved her hand, ¡°You may get up!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother,¡± Sang Wan replied submissively. She did not stand at a side as she usually would but stood near Wang Shi on her own ord. When Xiu Chun brought in tea, Sang Wan quickly received the cup and presented it to Wang Shi personally.


    Wang Shi took the cup and had a few sips but remained determined to not respond to her. Instead, she turned and had a quick chat with Nanny Jiang before ordering them to prepare breakfast.


    Sang Wan quickly helped Wang Shi up and headed to a distant dining room with her.


    ¡°Have you eaten?¡± Wang Shi asked when she sat in front of the dining table.


    Sang Wan quickly forced a smile and said, ¡°Your daughter-inw will help Mother with your meal first. It won¡¯t be toote for me to have itter.¡±


    Wang Shi had wanted to ask her to sit down together with her, but she quickly held her tongue and asked, ¡°You were here early, have you ordered the servants prepare breakfast for Fengju?¡±


    Sang Wan quickly nodded and said, ¡°The kitchen is already preparing breakfast following his preference. Zhide will serve him when he gets up, Mother you don¡¯t have to worry!¡±


    Wang Shi then asked again, ¡°Does Fengju have anything else that¡¯ll have him leave the household today?¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head honestly and answered, ¡°Your daughter-inw doesn¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Wang Shi frowned slightly and snorted, ¡°He is your husband, do you not care about him?¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly replied, ¡°My husband did not tell me, and as his wife, I did not feel that it was right to ask him. Your daughter-inw didn¡¯t dare to ask too much about his private matters, but since Mother has said so, I will make sure to ask about it next time!¡±


    Wang Shi felt slightly better after hearing her, so she said, ¡°You were not wrong as well, it is right for us women not to have a hand in men¡¯s businesses! We shouldn¡¯t think of taking control over everything and climb over our husbands¡¯ head! Our Shi family will not tolerate such a daughter-inw, are you clear?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan quickly forced a bitter smile.


    Once satisfied, Wang Shi then began to have her breakfast. After she was done with her breakfast, she stood up unhurriedly and said, ¡°You can help yourself to breakfast, then you¡¯ll follow me to Jiao Garden to visit your eldest sister-inwter. I¡¯m afraid there will be guests in the morning, so go back and change after visiting her and wait for me to call you!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly eded.


    Sang Wan got herself half a bowl of brown rice porridge and had a few pastries. Shi Fengju had wanted to greet his mother together, but he was stopped by her. Feeling agitated like an ant on a hot pan as he circled Ning Garden1 all by himself, he finally put his coat on hurriedly when an hour had passed and it was about the usual time he would leave to greet his mother before rushing to Wang Shi¡¯s ce.


    Not long after Wang Shi finished her breakfast, she heard servants reporting to her that her son had arrived to greet her. She frowned again and subconsciously looked up at the clock on the wall. She grunted lightly and thought sourly to herself: Great, all of them are earlier than usual! One is here to seek punishment, while this one, I¡¯m afraid, is here because he followed her. He must be scared of me tormenting his wife!


    No wonder people always said that sons were useless. Once they got married, they would forget about their mothers. It was indeed the case!


    Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for herself, thinking that if that woman from the Zhuang family knew about this, how much would she be enjoying her misfortune?


    ¡°Mother! I¡¯m here to greet you!¡± Shi Fengju entered with a smile. He looked around subconsciously and froze for a moment when he did not see Sang Wan anywhere.


    Wang Shi was even more annoyed seeing his actions, so she grunted indifferently and waved her hand impatiently, ¡°Alright, you don¡¯t have to worry about this old woman and go ahead with your own business. There¡¯s no need for you to be here already!¡±


    Shi Fengju would not leave without seeing Sang Wan¡¯s face. His heart pounded anxiously and he quickly responded, ¡°I don¡¯t have anything else today, it¡¯s alright for me to apany Mother as well! By the way, didn¡¯t Sang Wane to greet Mother early in the morning? Where is she now?¡±


    He was indeed here for her!


    Wang Shi said angrily, ¡°What? You really can¡¯t part with her, even just for a moment? Are you so afraid that I¡¯ll gobble her up?¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju frowned and said, ¡°What are you saying!¡±


    How could Sang Wan, who was in the dining room, still bother to eat? She hurriedly rinsed her mouth with tea and came out while calling out, ¡°Mother!¡±


    Wang Shi red at her and snapped at Shi Fengju, ¡°Take her back with you and check if she has lost some hair or gotten any wounds anywhere while she¡¯s here!¡±


    Sang Wan secretlyined and stood at the side with her head lowered without saying a word. She thought to herself: What is wrong with him? Why did he have toe and collide with my intentions while knowing full well that Mother-inw is still in a fit of anger! Well done, now all my effort in the morning has gone to waste! Mother-inw will only get angrier!


    However, it was her mother-inw lecturing her son; as a daughter-inw, she could not chip in. There were some words that were alright for her mother-inw to say, but it would be a mortal sin if she ever said so! Even if her husband did not care, her mother-inw would never tolerate it! So it was safer for her to quietly stand by the side.


    Shi Fengju quickly exined himself, ¡°I was just asking, why must Mother be so angry? Sang Wan is my wife, she came here early in the morning, so I was just asking as I didn¡¯t see her here. Is that not normal? Why must you be angry?¡±


    ¡°Oh? So it was my fault then!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s voice shook.


    ¡°Old Mistress, you¡¯ve really wronged Young Master! What Young Master said isn¡¯t wrong as well, he was just asking casually!¡± Nanny Jiang quickly mediated.


    Wang Shi was so furious that she yelled, ¡°Enough, enough! You useless thing, do whatever you like! I can¡¯t be bothered anymore! Otherwise, it¡¯ll only make a certain someone annoyed! Bring your wife back with you, and stop being an eyesore in front of me! Out of sight, out of mind, you can do whatever you want behind my back!¡±


    As she yelled, she felt more saddened. There was no way she could get over him harboring aint about her! Just why did she do all this for? Wasn¡¯t it all for him? Yet instead of showing any signs of appreciation, he even med her for making a mountain out of a molehill! Had he ever thought about how sad she must be as a mother seeing him under the control of a woman?


    Shi Fengju was totally stunned by her sudden outburst!


    Although Wang Shi often handled things unreliably, she had always listened to her son, which meant that he could always find a way to persuade her. But this time, he didn¡¯t expect her to overreact! It seemed as if he suddenly became the most unfilial son in the world!


    Sang Wan and Nanny Jiang were taken aback as well. They had never seen the old mistress treating her son like this.


    Sang Wan groaned inwardly while thinking to herself: What are you doing! Mother-inw is already in a fit of anger, how can she still take such words from you? Now you¡¯ve made me into the bad person again!¡±


    ¡°What are you still doing here? Shouldn¡¯t you be getting out now? Will you only be happy seeing me mad?¡± Seeing that her son was still zoning out on the spot, she couldn¡¯t help but be even more upset.


    ¡°Young Master, it will be better if you leave first! This old servant will take care of Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Jiang tried to mediate while signaling to Shi Fengju with a wink.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s head was aching and he secretly let out a sigh to himself. He looked at Sang Wan subconsciously, only to see her signaling to him to leave as well. She was even more afraid of him taking her to leave together, but fortunately, he understood her and did not grab her hand to leave together. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll be going back first!¡± He said to Wang Shi and left.

 Chapter 193 - How Dare She Treat Her Son That Way

    <b>Chapter 193: How Dare She Treat Her Son That Way</b>


    ¡°Look at him, look at him!¡± Wang Shiined to Nanny Jiang again, ¡°Was it easy for me to raise him? Wasn¡¯t all that I¡¯ve done for him? But look at him, he doesn¡¯t appreciate the effort I put in at all! I care about him, yet he mes me for only finding trouble instead! Does he enjoy being a servant to someone else? He is the young master of our Shi family! There¡¯s a saying that once a son gets married, he¡¯ll forget about his mother. It isn¡¯t a lie after all! Why should I still care about him now?¡±


    Wang Shi cried andined, while Nanny Jiang busilyforted her while sighing to herself: Old Mistress, even if you wish toin, please don¡¯t do it in front of Young Mistress! She¡¯s still standing at the side, how should she respond to this!


    Needless to say, Sang Wan¡¯s head was lowered and how she wished she could bury her head into her chest. Mother-inw had always been straight forward, but those words simply hurt a lot!


    But does it matter? Sang Wanughed bitterly to herself. Didn¡¯t she still have to listen quietly? How could she talk back at her or make a scene?


    ¡°Mother!¡± Seeing that Wang Shi had more or less vented her anger, Sang Wan forced a smile and said, ¡°Mother, we should go and visit sister now. I was wondering whether she has gotten better.¡±


    Wang Shi stopped crying when she heard Sang Wan mention her daughter. She wiped away her tears after a short moment of daze and eximed, ¡°I almost forgot about that! Nanny Jiang, have a servant bring me my fur coat, we are heading over now!¡± As she spoke, she stood up and looked at Sang Wan before saying coldly, ¡°You don¡¯t have toe along! Go back and serve your husband! Otherwise, he¡¯ll me me againter if he can¡¯t find you!¡±


    Sang Wan didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry. Her mother-inw was quite a strange one to say such words. How could she behave like a child acting out?


    ¡°Mother, my husband has made it clear to me yesterday to visit Big Sister! Please let this daughter-inwe along, I can also be of help if there¡¯s any need!¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled and said.


    ¡°Old Mistress, Young Mistress is right!¡± Nanny Jiang quickly smiled as well and said, ¡°Since Young Mistress is willing to help, you should let here along! It¡¯ll be good to have more people show some concern for Eldest Missy, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±


    Only then did Wang Shi not refuse. She let out a grunt and marched out with Nanny Jiang. Sang Wan quickly followed them and held Wang Shi¡¯s avable arm. However, with seething hatred, Wang Shi tried to avoid her, but she was insistent and pretended not to know as she held onto her arm. Wang Shi felt it was wrong to push her away in front of a crowd so she let her be.


    Shi Yumei took the medicine the night before and wrapped herself tightly in her thick nket in order to sweat out her illness. As such, herplexion became much better the next morning. Cui Zhu was feeding her porridge when Wang Shi, Sang Wan, and the rest arrived.


    Seeing that her daughter had gotten much better, Wang Shi¡¯s expression immediately turned better.


    Shi Yumei still remained indifferent towards Sang Wan. At the very least, she no longer hated her as much as she used to.


    But who was Shi Yumei? She was the eldest daughter who grew up in front of Wang Shi since young, how could she not realize the change in her mother¡¯s mood? Shortly after they arrived, she stared at Wang Shi and asked, ¡°Mother, why do you look so upset today? Did somebody make you angry?¡±


    Sang Wan knew what was toe and left the room to ask Cui Zhu about Shi Yumei¡¯s condition as well as her medicine. It would have been too difficult to hear criticism about herself! If Shi Yumei were to add fuel to the fire, Sang Wan knew she would only be finding trouble if she stayed!


    Without a care for whether Sang Wan was still around, Wang Shi immediately poured out what happened to Shi Yumei. As she spoke, the anger in her heart ignited again and she began scolding Shi Fengju angrily and grievously. Of course, she did not forget to scold Sang Wan as well, describing her as not being virtuous and respectful enough to her husband, and how she regretted treating her so nicely!


    Unexpectedly, Shi Yumei only giggled when she heard her mother and said, ¡°When will he ever change that character of his? He isn¡¯t a child anymore, so why is he still acting like one? Is he not afraid of othersughing at him!¡±


    Wang Shi was puzzled by the response she received and asked in surprise, ¡°What did you say? What... what do you mean by that? Has Sang Wan really been treating your brother like this frequently? How dare she, how dare she! I knew she was hiding a lot more from me!¡±


    ¡°Mother,¡± Shi Yumeiughed, ¡°he has always been like that, he would treat the one in his heart wholeheartedly, and would even go to the extreme of giving her his everything! He has always been that way, and it isn¡¯t even inappropriate, so why do you care so much about it?¡±


    ¡°No, you are wrong!¡± Everyone knew that Wang Shi was a stubborn one, how could she be persuaded with just a few words from Shi Yumei? Wang Shi continued asking, ¡°You haven¡¯t told me what you meant by your words just now! Had Sang Wan been tormenting Fengju like that when I was not around? Tell me what you know because I find this utterly shocking!¡±


    Shi Yumei answered naively, ¡°How would I know? You can ask Fengju if you really want to know! All I know is that Fengju, Cousin Fangzi, and I grew up together and Fengju would always do many things for Cousin Fangzi as well. He used to carry her a lot when we were young! But I have to say that nowadays, his only focus is Sang Wan!¡±


    Shi Yumei let out a soft sigh.


    ¡°Fengju used to do many things for Fangzi?¡± Wang Shi was taken aback, and only after a while did she say, ¡°Our Shi household is full of servants, what is there that needs Fengju to personally do it for her?¡±


    Shi Yumei was so immersed in recalling her childhood days that she forgot to care about Wang Shi¡¯s change of expression. After all, as Shi Fengju, Gu Fangzi, and she grew up together, of course the things that Shi Fengju did for Gu Fangzi did not seem unusual to her. And so, she picked a few stories and told them to her mother.


    The more Wang Shi heard, the angrier she got and the more she had to gasp to calm herself down. It wasn¡¯t difficult to picture how her son behaved like a servant to serve Gu Fangzi from her daughter¡¯s words. Wang Shi was so furious that she almost fainted!


    There were actually so many things that she did not know about in this family! It was ridiculous! She had always loved her silly son like a precious baby while he was used as a servant! Not to mention Gu Fangzi, she used to pity her and love her wholeheartedly, and yet she dared to be a gentle and lovely little girl in front of her while tormenting her son behind her back!


    ¡°Eh, Mother, is something the matter?¡± Shi Yumei quickly questioned when she finally spotted Nanny Jiang signaling rapidly with her eyes.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Wang Shi almost gnashed her teeth in anger when she denied. She no longer had the heart to remain any more, and said, ¡°Rest well and remember to tell Cui Zhu to prepare your medicine punctually! If you¡¯re feeling ufortable anywhere or have any food you crave for, let Mother know! Mother is going back now!¡±


    Shi Yumei felt that her mother was behaving strangely, but she did not think much about it and simply nodded as she watched them leave.


    When Wang Shi came out, Sang Wan quickly went forward to hold her arm. However, Wang Shi nced away from her with dislike and grunted coldly before walking away, leaving her and Nanny Jiang behind.


    The chill in Wang Shi¡¯s eyes was so cold that even Sang Wan¡¯s heart felt like it froze. She was transfixed for a moment but quickly followed her mother-inw. Without even guessing, she was sure that Shi Yumei must have said words against her in front of Wang Shi, which exined Wang Shi¡¯s behavior. However, what Sang Wan did not know was that right at that moment, Wang Shi was boiling with rage and she subconsciously associated Shi Yumei¡¯s words with Sang Wan, who was waiting for her meekly and gently, just like how Gu Fangzi would behave in front of her. But look at what happened behind her back! All those things that she made her son do cause her heart to ache deeply!


    Wang Shi went into her warm room right after she got back, and Sang Wan waited obediently outside as she did not dare to follow her inside without her permission. Sang Wan could not help but regret; she felt like she was only asking for trouble! If she had known, she would definitely have left together with Shi Fengju! Why did she go, only to be a punching bag? She had no idea why the more she tried to appease her mother-inw, the angrier she got!


    For so many years, Nanny Jiang had never seen Wang Shi so angry before. She was so angry that her face turned green. None of the servants dared to make a sound, much less step forward to appease her.


    How could anyone understand how Wang Shi was feeling now? Wang Shi did not only feel disappointed, but she also felt betrayed!


    She had always been so fond of her niece and treated her like her real daughter, loving her and caring for her like her own. And her niece was always a clever one, and giving her all to her and her son! She had praised Gu Fangzi more than once for always being kind and knowing how to be grateful, but who knew that she was ordering her son around behind her back!


    How could she!


    Everything that she had shown in front of her was nothing but a facade!


    ¡°Where is Sang Wan? Is she still outside?¡± Wang Shi asked faintly after a while.

 Chapter 194 - Scolding Her Daughter-in-law

    <b>Chapter 194: Scolding Her Daughter-inw


    </b>


    <b> </b>


    Nanny Jiang had been waiting for her to ask, and quickly smiled, ¡°Young Mistress has been properly waiting outside! Would you like this old servant to call her in?¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi sneered and said, ¡°Properly? Who knows whether she¡¯s what she appears to be! Alright, call her in!¡±


    Nanny Jiang understood that Wang Shi was associating her with Gu Fangzi, and knowing that she was no longer rational, she remained silent and went out to call Sang Wan in.


    Sang Wan had already made the necessary mental preparation to wait outside for the entire day. As such, even though she stood outside the room for quite a while, she did not feel weary or impatient. When Nanny Jiang came out to deliver the message, she thanked her calmly without expressing any sense of relief on her face. That was something Nanny Jiang admired: Young Mistress¡¯s self-discipline was really exceptional! If it were Eldest Missy in her shoes, she would haveined right away!


    ¡°Mother! Your daughter-inw is here, is there anything Mother needs me for?¡± Sang Wan went forward and greeted Wang Shi with her hands ced together on the left side of her waist.


    Wang Shi squinted her eyes as she examined her daughter-inw from top to bottom. She was wearing an orange sleeved overcoat, a silvery blue-cored robe buttoned with a ruby shaped like a plum blossom flower at the cor. Beneath, she wore an ivory-white pleated silk skirt with floral embroidery. She had her hair tied up into a neat bun and wore a headdress decorated with ruby and sapphire. She had a slender body and a narrow waist, and her attire was simple and elegant yet rich at the same time. As she stood in front of Wang Shi, it wasn¡¯t hard to tell that she was a gentle and meek beauty.


    Just from her attire, no one would think that she was a woman who appeared virtuous while shrewish enough to torment her husband when no one was looking.


    How would Sang Wan know what her mother-inw was thinking? The gaze on her felt ufortable, but she did not dare toment on it. Instead, she stood to the side quietly, hoping that her mother-inw would be generous and not pick on her faults.


    ¡°Wait outside first!¡± Wang Shi eximed all of a sudden.


    Sang Wan thought those words were for her and she looked up, only to see Nanny Jiang take her leave. Sang Wan quickly lowered her gaze again and stood up straight.


    ¡°Come a little closer, I won¡¯t have to use too much energy that way!¡± Wang Shi leaned against her bed and said inly.


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan smiled and went forward.


    Wang Shi looked at her again and asked, ¡°Have you read ¡°Lessons for Women¡± at home?¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s words were no different than a p on her face; she was questioning her female virtues right to her face. Sang Wan¡¯s face immediately turned red and she lowered her head, ¡°I have, and I have never dared to forget it!¡±


    ¡°That better be so! Then you don¡¯t need me to tell you about the Three Obedience and Four Virtues, do you?¡± Wang Shi asked again.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan went on her knees and cried, ¡°I... Yesterday night wasn¡¯t done on purpose, I know that I was wrong, please forgive me, Mother!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s rage was fueled again when she heard Sang Wan mention about the previous night, and she spoke coldly, ¡°Answer me honestly! Has that ever happened before? Answer me! If I ever find anything that refutes your answer, I will be merciless to you then! Our family cannot tolerate a tyrannical daughter-inw! Is your husband for you to torment?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely never!¡± Sang Wan quickly answered, ¡°Mother can go ahead and investigate! Last night, I was feeling a little dizzy and almost fell when I got off the carriage, added to the fact that I¡¯ve helped my husband raise his reputation in front of his friends and made him happy, which was why he... Mother, is this daughter-inw not able to differentiate good from the bad? Do I not know that women should obey their husbands unconditionally? Would I be willing to behave so impertinently in the household? If the servants saw, not only would this daughter-inw be humiliated, even my husband would too!¡±


    Wang Shi had always been credulous, and she found Sang Wan¡¯s words reasonable as well. She was the Young Mistress of the Shi family; if the servants saw her actions, she would be left with no face as her husband¡¯s wife. Where would she have the stateliness to control the servants? She wasn¡¯t like concubines who were meant to entertain men where making a mistake once or twice was harmless!


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re clear about it! Otherwise, I would have been favoring you for nothing!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s face finally eased up and she nodded, ¡°Since this has never happened before, we¡¯ll put it aside! But keep in mind that there should be no more of such behavior in the future, understand? If I ever catch the two of you again, hmph, you should know what will happen then!¡±


    ¡°This daughter-inw will put Mother-inw¡¯s words to heart and never dare to do so again!¡± Sang Wan was secretly relieved.


    ¡°Alright, you may go back! Old Mistress Hu won¡¯t be able to be here today so there won¡¯t be any need for you toe back again. Be on your way now! And before I forget, you don¡¯t have toe and greet me so early in the morning tomorrow, go now!¡± Wang Shi nodded and waved.


    ¡°Understood, then this daughter-inw will take my leave!¡± Sang Wan curtseyed and left.


    Once she was out of the main courtyard, she subconsciously straightened her back and took a deep breath before looking up to the sky. The clouds were floating gracefully in the sky and rays of sunlight shone between the gaps. It was such a bright and enchanting view while she could still feel the cold air with every breath she took in the cold winter.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re back!¡± Just when Sang Wan arrived at Ning Garden1, Shi Fengju came out to receive her with a smile. He held her hand and asked softly, ¡°How was it? Mother didn¡¯t make things difficult for you, did she?¡±


    How could Sang Wan not be angry at him? ncing at him resentfully, she shook her head, ¡°Listen to what you just said! Why would Mother make things difficult for me?¡± That was called discipline! Which daughter-inw would not have to be disciplined by her Mother-inw? Only that this one was more or less undeserved!


    Shi Fengju knew that he had spoken incorrectly and smiled as he followed her into the house.


    After she took off her coat and went into the warm room, Shi Fengju dismissed the servants before he hugged her while speaking gently, ¡°There¡¯s no one else here, you can vent your anger out on me if you feel unhappy, don¡¯t suppress it inside!¡±


    Sang Wan was still feeling angry with him at first, but she was left speechless after hearing him say so. After letting out a sigh, she said, ¡°What¡¯s done has already been done, I don¡¯t want to talk about it anymore, just don¡¯t make the same mistake again! I feel a little tired now, so don¡¯t disturb me!¡±


    Shi Fengju could tell that she was still somewhat annoyed and felt even more apologetic. When he finally helped her up the warm bed and pulled the nket over her, he held her again, ¡°Was it because I shot my mouth off which got you into more trouble with my mother? She¡¯s old now, so please bear with her! Ai, I had no idea that it would end up like this as well! And Mother as well, why does she like to poke her nose into our own matters? What made her firmly believe the fact you were bullying me?¡±


    The anger within Sang Wan boiled again, ¡°Could you stop talking about it? Mother is your blood-rted mother, did you think she would favor me instead of you? Fengju, I really don¡¯t me Mother, this matter was my fault from the start. It¡¯s just that, although I was able to coax her quite well, her mood immediately changed to a piece of frozen ice after we went to Jiao Garden to visit your eldest sister! She pushed me away without even looking at me when I tried to help her! I have no idea what Big Sister said to her which made her so angry!¡±


    Even Shi Fengju suspected Shi Yumei after hearing Sang Wan. Not to mention Sang Wan, he was clear that his eldest sister had always disliked Sang Wan which made him feel more guilty and he petted Sang Wan¡¯s shoulders lightly whileforting her.


    Sang Wan told him that she had never thought about letting him speak out for her and scold Shi Yumei as that was impossible. Even she would beughing at herself for being rude if she really had such a thought.


    Only that there was no way she could ept being wronged for nothing. She had to tell him about it even though she was not expecting anything from him! All he had to do was be able to understand what she was going through.


    ¡°Fengju, I don¡¯t me you as well. You¡¯re right, which daughter-inw fromrge households won¡¯t suffer from injustice? Life would be too difficult if I quibble over everything! It¡¯s alright for me to be wronged, if, and only if it wasn¡¯t by you...¡± Sang Wan turned around after hearing his light and gentle wordsforting her, and she held his hands before saying softly.


    ¡°Why would I wrong you?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart melted and he hugged her gently. He gave her a few gentle kisses on her forehead and her cheeks while saying gently, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m d that you could think this way, you are truly my good wife! In any case, it was me who implicated you this time, and I will never let that happen again, alright? When the weather gets better in spring, I will bring you out. Let¡¯s go to the country house where we can do whatever we want without anyone making trouble for us! Just like what¡¯s happening right now with just the two of us, I will listen to you as well!¡± As he said so, he grinned at her with a hint of naughtiness.


    Sang Wan was more or less relieved and blushed when she finally understood him. She pushed him gently andughed, ¡°Stop it already, I¡¯m really tired and I want to rest! Mother said that Old Mistress Hu won¡¯t being over today, so I don¡¯t have to go overter!¡±


    ¡°Rest well then!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and pulled the nket up for her again. He watched her from right beside. The more he looked at her, the fonder he was and he asked with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, are you feeling ufortable anywhere? Do you need me to massage you?¡±


    Sang Wan had no choice but to open her eyes slightly and say, ¡°Go out and take a walk somewhere, stop staying here and disturbing me!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°There¡¯s nowhere to go outside. Go to sleep, I won¡¯t disturb you anymore. I¡¯ll just watch over you!¡±


    Sang Wan groaned softly and turned away, with her back facing him. Without feeling bothered when he stroked her asionally, she kept her eyes closed to get a good rest.


    By the time Sang Wan got up, it was time for lunch. The two of them were enjoying the view of fresh flowers to help with digestion in the corridor after lunch. Every day, there were servants taking care of those flowers and they would cut away the withered ones and rece the entire flowerpot if all the flowers had withered away. There were rhododendrons, camellias, roses, wintersweets, cymens, and many other flowers along the corridors; it was a splendid view of flowers.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress, Concubine Fang is here!¡± A servant suddenly came forward to report.


    ¡°Concubine Fang?¡± Shi Fengju looked at Sang Wan in surprise and asked, ¡°Concubine Fang from the second family? What did shee here for?¡±


    Sang Wan frowned and smiled, ¡°I have no idea as well! Since she¡¯s already here, let¡¯s invite her in then!¡± As she spoke, the two of them went back inside.


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but worry. This Concubine Fang was a persistent one. Ever since she was here thest time, there were two more asions where Sang Wan had bumped into her ¡®by ident¡¯, but Sang Wan did not give her the opportunity to bring up her intentions. Never did she expect her toe again!

 Chapter 195 - Decide

    <strong>Chapter 195: Decide</strong>


    Concubine Fang became slightly awkward when she saw Shi Fengju the moment she entered the house. She heard that Old Mistress Hu wouldn¡¯t be able toe today and deduced that Sang Wan must be at home, so she used every possible means to obtain Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s permission toe with a huge goal in mind. All she intended to do was to speak what was in her mind once and for all! But who¡¯d have thought that Shi Fengju would be present as well.


    Concubine Fang never saw iting. After all, it was the beginning of a new year; what sort of men would not be drinking and watching troupes outside for the entire day? Who knew that the young master would actually be at home.


    ¡°Ah, Young Master is here as well!¡± The smile on Concubine Fang¡¯s face stiffened.


    Sang Wanughed to herself before gesturing politely, ¡°Concubine Fang is a rare visitor, quickly, have a seat please!¡±


    ¡°You tter me! Young Mistress is being too polite!¡± Concubine Fang forced a smile and sat down while feeling diposed. Shi Fengju was the nephew of Second Old Master Shi, even if his niece-inw was present, it was not appropriate for a concubine to remain too long with his nephew without hispany.


    After exchanging a few rounds of greetings, Sang Wan smiled and asked, ¡°What brings Concubine Fang here? Please let me know if there is anything that you need my help with!¡±


    Sang Wan was the young mistress managing the family, as such, she definitely had the right to say so.


    Concubine Fang looked at Shi Fengju hesitantly and forced a smile, ¡°I do have something to discuss with Young Mistress, it¡¯s just that... heh heh...¡±


    Concubine Fang had made herself clear enough. She did have something to say, but she wouldn¡¯t say it in front of Young Master Shi, so she hoped that he could leave them alone for a while.


    Of course, Shi Fengju understood what Concubine Fang was trying to hint at, but he understood Sang Wan as well. Since his wife did not wish for him to leave, of course he would not leave. So he pretended not to understand Concubine Fang with a smile, ¡°Concubine Fang, there¡¯s no need for you to be so courteous, you can just say if there¡¯s anything!¡±


    Concubine Fang¡¯s lips twitched a little and she swallowed the bitterness in silence.


    There were words that could be said in front of Sang Wan, but definitely not Shi Fengju. Concubine Fang dawdled for quite a while without telling them the purpose of her trip, and asked vaguely about whether she could bring Fifth Missy out to watch thenterns on the night of the Lantern Festival before she reluctantly excused herself.


    She would not be able to exin herself in front of Second Old Mistress Shi if she stayed for too long!


    After seeing Concubine Fang leave, Shi Fengju then asked Sang Wan, ¡°Why was Concubine Fang looking for you?¡±


    He had been asking himself that question countless times just now, but could never figure it out. What made Concubine Fang look for Sang Wan? Why couldn¡¯t she tell Second Uncle even if she didn¡¯t want to tell Second Aunt? Would Second Aunt be happy if she heard here all the way here just to find Sang Wan instead of her?


    Of course, Sang Wan had nothing to hide from him, and he might actually be able to resolve the headache for her, so sheughed and sighed, ¡°It is a long story! I actually have no idea where to start!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°That¡¯s strange, why does hering to find you make you so worried?¡± He became even more interested.


    Sang Wan then sighed, ¡°It was a while ago when I identally overheard Concubine Fang¡¯s servants¡¯ conversation. They said that Concubine Fang wanted to marry Fifth Sister to my second brother. I didn¡¯t take it seriously at first, but who knew Concubine Fang would actuallye and find me a few dayster? I could tell from her expression that what I had overheard wasn¡¯t a joke, so I threw her off with other topics whenever she attempted to find me about it. After the visit, we¡¯ve met outside twice, but I didn¡¯t give her a chance to speak her objective. Who knew she¡¯de and find me here again today!¡±


    Her voice felt angry yet funny at the same time when Shi Fengju heard her, and he said, ¡°Concubine Fang actually had such a thought? How daring of her. When was it her turn to decide on Fifth Sister¡¯s marriage when Second Uncle and Second Aunt are still around? What¡¯s more, Fifth Sister is still so young, a child to be exact, if your second brother were to...¡±


    Shi Fengju didn¡¯t know whether to be angry or tough out loud. He was stricken from the thought of himself calling his little sister ¡°Second Sister-inw¡±.


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes at him and said inly, ¡°Concubine Fang won¡¯t be so careless, even if we don¡¯t know whether Second Aunt knows about it, how could Second Uncle not know?¡± To act behind her old master and old mistress, she definitely would not have the courage to do so!


    Shi Fengju was taken aback for a moment before he raged and simply mmed his palm on the table. He frowned and said, ¡°How can Second Uncle be so silly?¡±


    Sang Wan remained quiet. Second Old Master Shi only had his eyes on his precious pet goldfish and birds; he did not care much about his children so it was not difficult for Concubine Fang to instigate him as she had always been good at making him happy.


    Moreover, if the marriage came true, it would not be a bad thing for them as well!


    ¡°This had been worrying me a lot. There¡¯s a huge age gap between them, a person like my second brother would definitely not marry a wife who is so much younger than him, not to mention that I have no rights to make decisions for his marriage as a married sister! My eldest brother and sister-inw wouldn¡¯t agree to it as well!


    How could Shi Fengju not understand? Now that Sang Yufei was already a top escorted examinee, if he performed brilliantly in the next examination held this year, he would be an advanced schr at least and have a bright future ahead! He would never marry someone who was not born by a legal wife from a merchant family.


    ¡°Then don¡¯t give Concubine Fang any chance to mention it! I suppose Second Aunt doesn¡¯t know about it, or else it wouldn¡¯t be her chance to initiate! Concubine Fang must¡¯ve turned silly, so don¡¯t take it too seriously!¡± Shi Fengju said.


    Sang Wanughed, ¡°Since when was I bothered by her? The only thing that I¡¯m afraid of is that as the examination gets closer, what if Concubine Fang can¡¯t wait anymore and asks Second Uncle for help?¡±


    Shi Fengju thought for a while andughed, ¡°Of course Second Uncle will look for me if he is really going to help her, but there¡¯s no way I am able to intervene in my brother-inw¡¯s marriage. It¡¯ll be alright as long as I can exin it away! Don¡¯t you worry! If nothing works, we¡¯ll just tell them that we heard from your eldest brother and sister-inw that they have already decided on someone already!¡±


    Sang Wan was pleased and quickly smiled at his suggestion, ¡°This is a good idea!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°If Concubine Fang everes back again, try to avoid her. It¡¯ll be enough to let the servants deal with her! She is a concubine of Second Uncle after all so Second Aunt wouldn¡¯t be too happy seeing the two of you getting too close! There¡¯s no need for us to be involved in their family¡¯s matters as the first family!¡±


    Sang Wan rolled her eyes andughed, ¡°Who would want to be involved? I have never actively invited Concubine Fang over! She doesn¡¯t even give me the chance to avoid her!¡±


    ¡°I was only saying, of course my wife is clever enough!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and could not restrain himself from pinching her cheek.


    Sang Wan shifted her body away to avoid his hand before sheughed, ¡°There¡¯s something that I¡¯ve always wanted to tell you about but I keep forgetting to do so. It¡¯s about Zhide¡¯s marriage. Although she had already told me that she is willing to serve me for two or three more years before she gets married, I don¡¯t find it appropriate of me. And because it is my request, I hope to help her set her marriage with Head Servant Jin¡¯s son and they¡¯ll get married three yearster. What do you think?¡±


    Shi Fengju naturally would not have any objections to such a matter, so he smiled and said, ¡°I say that¡¯s a good thing as well! Since you, the young mistress, will be taking the reins, not only would Zhide¡¯s family feel honored, even Head Servant Jin won¡¯t dare to renege on the marriage as well. In the future when Zhide is married, her status will be raised as well!¡± If she was grateful, she would definitely serve you more faithfully as well.


    Sang Wan nodded and sighed, ¡°She has been serving you ever since the two of you were still young, and she remains as a faithful servant serving me now. She deserves this honor!¡±


    Shi Fengju couldn¡¯t agree more after hearing her and nodded, ¡°You¡¯re right. If that¡¯s the case, how about we call her mother and Head Servant Jin¡¯s wife here right now and tell them about it?¡±


    There was nothing wrong with it, so why not settle it now? Sang Wan nodded and agreed as well. She called Nanny Li in and told her about it. She then instructed Nanny Li to invite the wife of each family over.


    Nanny Li smiled when she heard about it and said, ¡°It¡¯s an honor for Zhide to receive this favor from Young Mistress! Her parents will definitely be happy about it! This old servant will send people to invite them over now!¡±


    It did not take too long for the news to spread throughout the entire Ning Garden1. Zhide was happy yet shy at the same time, so she hid herself in her room and did not want toe out. Every one of the servants envied her as Young Mistress Shi was basically acting as a matchmaker. It was considered rare among all the servants in the household!


    Shortly after, Zhide¡¯s mother and Head Servant Jin¡¯s wife arrived. How could they not be satisfied when the two families had already been considering the marriage? Head Servant Jin¡¯s wife was worried about Zhide not willing to get married soon at first, but she could finally ease her mind now. All she wished for now was for Zhide to serve her young mistress well in the next three years and be her closest servant. Wouldn¡¯t that be much better than just casually taking on another position when she marries over?


    The two wives kowtowed to show their appreciation. Sang Wan then awarded Zhide¡¯s mother a set of golden head ornaments, a pair of jade bracelets, two pieces of red thin silk brocade, two rolls of begonia red gauze and told her that those were rewards for Zhide¡¯s dowry. Once the timees for her to get married, Sang Wan promised there would be more.


    The two wives became even happier and they left after expressing their gratitude countless of times.


    Unexpectedly, Wang Shi suddenly asked about it the next day when Sang Wan and Shi Fengju went over to greet her. Sang Wan then informed her respectfully even though she found it surprising.


    Wang Shiughed and said, ¡°Zhide has been serving in the Ning Garden for so many years; she deserves such a reward! She has always been a calm and sensible one, and she always does her tasks seriously and carefully, I have always liked her as well! How about this, let¡¯s call her overter, I have something to award to her as well!¡±


    Sang Wan quickly smiled and agreed, and did not forget to thank Wang Shi on Zhide¡¯s behalf as well.


    After returning back to Ning Garden, Sang Wan sent a servant to inform Zhide about it. The rest envied Zhide even more when they heard about it and couldn¡¯t stop congratting her. Their eyes almost lit up and they thought to themselves that once the luck was upon someone, it became unstoppable! Zhide¡¯s effort of serving Ning Garden for so many years did not go unnoticed and she was finally getting rewarded!


    Not only was there an excellent marriage, but both the young mistress and old mistress were supportive of it as well.


    On the surface, Zhide kept a smile and expressed her thanks to the rest. However, she secretly found it strange. It was her job as a servant to serve her owners well, so she had never found it worthwhile to be praised. Moreover, she was already extremely honored to have her young mistress¡¯ support in her marriage; there was no need for her old mistress to join in as well! After all, her contribution to the Shi family was not even as great Nanny Li who had poured her entire heart into serving!

 Chapter 196 - Bribery

    <strong>Chapter 196: Bribery</strong>


    ¡°This servant, Zhide, greets Old Mistress!¡± In the warm room, Zhide knelt and kowtowed to Wang Shi respectfully.


    ¡°You may get up now!!¡± Wang Shi smiled as she waved her hand and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect so many years to go by in a blink of an eye! The little girl from before has grown into such a beautiful youngdy as well!¡±


    Zhide blushed lightly and smiled as she got up and stood to the side. Without looking up, she smiled to reply, ¡°It was all thanks to Old Mistress that I can be what I am today.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, it is also because you were smart and hardworking enough!¡± Wang Shi examined her with a smile before asking her amicably to show concern. However, the more she asked, the more insecure Zhide felt but she answered every question honestly.


    Gradually, Wang Shi arrived at her purpose of calling Zhide over. With a smile, she said, ¡°You¡¯ve served Young Master dutifully, even until now when Young Mistress is present. And because you are loyal and reliable, it is no wonder that your young mistress would value you a lot even though it hasn¡¯t been long since she entered the family! She even personally set your marriage!¡±


    Zhide began to get a little worried, so she forced a smile and said, ¡°I was only doing my job. That is Young Mistress¡¯ grace and this servant will never forget it!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve always knew you were a loyal one!¡± Wang Shi smiled in satisfaction, but her expression dampened all of a sudden and she said, ¡°I have a few questions for you, and you have to answer me honestly!¡±


    Zhide¡¯s body stiffened slightly but she forced a smile, ¡°Old Mistress, please go ahead and ask, this servant does not dare to lie to Old Mistress!¡±


    Wang Shi nodded and asked, ¡°Tell me, how do Young Master and Young Mistress normally get along?¡±


    Zhide was still taken aback even though she had already made the necessary mental preparation. She looked up at Wang Shi subconsciously, still feeling a little stunned. She thought for a while before answering, ¡°Young Master and Young Mistress... treat each other with respect.¡±


    Wang Shi was apparently unsatisfied with her answer. She frowned slightly and said, ¡°That¡¯s not what I¡¯m asking! Zhide, there are only the two of us here, and I¡¯m asking you because I trust you. There¡¯s no need to feel mentally burdened, you can just answer me with whatever you know! Is that clear?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Old Mistress...¡±


    Wang Shi asked again, ¡°Then let me ask you, has your young mistress ever ordered your young master about, like serve her tea? Does she lose her temper often, so much so that your young master has to coax her? Or has she ever crossed the line of being a wife? Women are supposed to be gentle and virtuous, and serve our husbands well, do you think Young Mistress has done that well?¡±


    Zhide did not know what happened that night, so she was puzzled when Wang Shi questioned her. Without a clue about what happened, Zhide did not know how she should answer.


    Wang Shi was not in a hurry to receive an answer and did not press her. Instead, she simply watched her at the side.


    ¡°Young Mistress has always been gentle and virtuous, and she is very considerate towards Young Master as well. This servant has never seen Young Mistress lose her temper in front of Young Master before! Young Mistress has always been the one serving Young Master, and never the other way around.¡± Zhide said after putting in much thought.


    ¡°Is that the case?¡± Wang Shi thought for a while before asking again, ¡°Young Mistress never disrespected Young Master in any way?


    ¡°This servant doesn¡¯t dare lie to Old Mistress!¡± Zhide knelt and secretlyined bitterly in her heart.


    ¡°Quickly get up!¡± Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°Look at you, why do you always kneel at the drop of a hat? I know that I can trust you. If you say so, then it must be so!¡±


    Then she sighed, ¡°You must be confused by my sudden questions, aren¡¯t you? Ai, I¡¯m just worrying for my own son as a mother! From what I have seen, your young master seems to be too nice to your young mistress, I am just afraid that your young mistress might develop a tendency of wanting him to do uneptable favors for her behind my back! If others were to hear about it, our Shi family will lose our reputation! And if she ever behaves that way, I would have to discipline her well!¡±


    Zhide did not dare to respond and could only reply with a soft ¡®understood¡¯ after a while.


    ¡°Zhide!¡± Once again, Wang Shi spoke affably, ¡°You have been serving your young master since young and have always been doing your best. Although I have never praised you myself, but I¡¯ve always noticed you and remember your good points! Zhide, I know you are a good girl; if you could help me with one more thing, I¡¯ll definitely never shortchange you! And when you get married in the future, I will not forget to reward you!¡±


    ¡°This servant has always been grateful for Old Mistress¡¯ kindness, and will never disobey any of Old Mistress¡¯ instructions! Please tell me what I have to do, Old Mistress!¡± Zhide did not dare to hesitate or boggle. She hurriedly knelt before answering.


    ¡°Quickly get up!¡± Wang Shi went as far as to help her up and said, ¡°I want you to be my eyes and watch everything that happens in Ning Garden1. I want you to keep an eye on your young mistress. You will inform me of any misbehavior or if she treats your young master poorly! Will you do that for me?¡±


    Zhide¡¯s face turned pale. She was stunned and did not dare answer her.


    Wang Shi said again, ¡°I don¡¯t have any other meaning behind it. I am just afraid that the young couple might have little sense of propriety. Your young master has never been bothered about trifles, so what if your young mistress gets conceited from his good grace and rumors end up spreading? It would be a disgrace to our entire Shi family! It would do everyone good if I could discipline her in time! Zhide, I will leave this to you, so don¡¯t let me down!¡±


    ¡°Yes... Old Mistress, this servant will keep it in mind.¡± Zhide stuttered and her heart was beating vigorously, ¡°If... if this servant ever finds anything out, this servant will immediately report to you, Old Mistress!¡±


    ¡°Hmm,¡± Wang Shi nodded with satisfaction and smiled, ¡°I have faith in you! Alright, you may go back now! This pair of gold hairpins is my reward for you. Do your task properly, and don¡¯t disappoint me!¡±


    ¡°This servant thanks Old Mistress for the reward!¡± Zhide took them respectfully and left with her head lowered after she kowtowed.


    After she returned to Ning Garden, she showed Sang Wan her reward from Wang Shi. Sang Wan took a look at them in her hands and smiled, ¡°This a reward from Old Mistress, keep it properly!¡±


    Zhide smiled and nodded before she left to keep the reward.


    Zhide remained hesitant for more than half a day before she finally sent the rest away under the pretext that she would stand vigil at Ning Garden. When Shi Fengju went to take a bath, she found the chance to tell Sang Wan in detail about Wang Shi¡¯s orders as she knelt in front of her.


    ¡°This servant has no idea why Old Mistress would want this out of nowhere, and this servant doesn¡¯t dare to hide it from Young Mistress after giving it much thought! Young Mistress¡¯ grace to me was like giving me a second life, this servant does not dare to forget about it!¡±


    It felt like a bolt from the blue when Sang Wan heard so, as she had never expected her mother-inw to remain unappeased after scolding her and even called for her close servant to be her eyes. Fortunately, Zhide, Liu Ya, and Hong Ye were servants close to her who were not arrogant and have their own agenda. Otherwise, if it were someone else who had received the instructions from Wang Shi, they would definitely take advantage of it to make her suffer! Even if she did behave herself, she would definitely still end up being framed.


    Sang Wan was startled and angered at the same time. How could her mother-inw be so distrustful of her?


    ¡°Old Mistress¡¯ uneasiness is because she cares for our Shi family as well. I¡¯m still young and she may have witnessed mycking in areas that worry her! Since Old Mistress has already told you to do so, then you should just report to her honestly with whatever you see! So long as nothing is made up, it¡¯ll be alright! Don¡¯t betray the trust Old Mistress has for you!¡± It wasn¡¯t easy for Sang Wan to calm the rage within her heart before she told Zhide.


    Zhide was relieved when she heard her, so she quickly answered with a nod, ¡°Yes, Young Mistress, this servant understands!¡±


    ¡°Alright, you may excuse yourself now!¡± Sang Wan waved.


    Zhide thanked her before she left and closed the door behind her softly.


    Sang Wan slowly leaned against the couch and watched the me in themp sway gently. The more she thought about it, the angrier she felt.


    When Shi Fengju came in and saw her not in bed but sitting on the couch in a daze, he went closer to her and hugged her shoulders. He smiled and said, ¡°What are you thinking about so seriously? Don¡¯t you feel cold sitting here with so little clothes?¡±


    Of course she wouldn¡¯t feel cold as there was a heater beneath the house. Sang Wan looked up at him before she smiled all of a sudden and ced her arms around his neck. She whispered softly by his ear, ¡°Carry me there.¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart turned soft by the gentle and warm body. Her body exuded a fragrance which shook his heart and there was nothing more that he could ask for. He smirked as he carried her in his arms before saying gently, ¡± I would carry you like this every night if you¡¯d like...¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red, but deep down, she felt somehow satisfied. She nibbled her lip and said softly into his ear, ¡°We better not, what if Mother finds out about it?¡±


    Shi Fengju was suddenly amused, so he lowered his head and rubbed his nose against her forehead and said, ¡°How would Mother know about what happens in our room?¡± As he spoke, he walked towards the bed with long strides before putting her down gently. He could feel and smell the warm fragrance from her delicate body. In the end, it was yet another night of ceaseless passion.


    Half a month passed and Shi Fengju found an opportunity to talk to Wang Shi about Gu Fangzi.


    ¡°Mother, I¡¯m thinking of finding Cousin a better husband, what do you think?¡±Shi Fengju thought that his mother was going to get mad at him and would argue over it, but who knew she¡¯d only raise an eyebrow instead. Her face remained somewhat calm, which surprised Shi Fengju entirely.


    After all, how could he know that Wang Shi had unintentionally heard stories about the past from Shi Yumei and became disappointed in Gu Fangzi just as much as how she used to think of her in the past. In her eyes, the most important person was only her son! She was only nice to Gu Fangzi because she had always assumed that girl was nice to her son! But since she wasn¡¯t, why would Wang Shi still treat her the same as before?


    ¡°Where did such a thoughte from?¡± Wang Shi simply asked. She was even somewhat pleased deep down after knowing that her son might not like Gu Fangzi as much as she thought he would. There was no need to worry about Gu Fangzi ensnaring him in the future anymore!


    Shi Fengju had already thought about the excuse, and said, ¡°Cousin Fangzi has stayed in our household since young, if others knew that we had married her in as a concubine, it would be a shame on our family! To those who are not clear about the situation, it might seem like we¡¯re ill-treating her and turn our grace into hatred! I didn¡¯t think about this at all before, but now I really regret marrying her! Fortunately, such an event wasn¡¯t made huge and not a lot of people know about it, so I will find her a husband who isn¡¯t from around here and marry her off when the situation quietens down! Her new family wouldn¡¯t dare to treat her poorly as long as she has our Shi family backing her! Isn¡¯t it better for her to get married as a wife instead of a concubine? I am only thinking for her as well!¡±


    Wang Shi studied him doubtfully and said, ¡°Do you really think so? Did you hear some gossip outside, or was it Sang Wan who is asking for this?¡±

 Chapter 197 - Caught By Surprise

    <strong>Chapter 197: Caught By Surprise</strong>


    ¡°Not from gossip, and neither does it have anything to do with Sang Wan. It is solely my idea. Mother, if you are not against it, then please tell Cousin Fangzi for me!¡± Shi Fengju said.


    ¡°You want me to tell her for you?¡± Wang Shi could not help but crease her eyebrows and speak without deliberation, ¡°Have you really thought through it? Can you really bear to? For her, you have quarreled with me so many times. For you to suddenly give her up, it really is out of the blue!¡±


    Shi Fengju sighed and said, ¡°Mother, why do you keep bringing up the past! Just take it that I¡¯m going back on my words, okay?¡± There were many things that he could not tell his mother! Not just his mother, even Sang Wan, he found it difficult to speak about it as well. An example would be during the mourning period when Gu Fangzi tried to seduce him into consummating their marriage by taking off her clothes...


    ¡°What nonsense are you saying!¡± There was no way Wang Shi could bear to insult her son. Upon hearing him, she eximed, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that. If she hadn¡¯t married into the household, it will still be possible to go back on words. But right now, the fact is that she is already considered part of our family. Asking her to marry another man in such a haphazard manner... this... How do you want me to mention this to her!¡±


    ¡°Mother, take it as doing your son a favor,¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Mother, I know you¡¯ve always felt that making Cousin Fangzi my concubine is shortchanging her. If we marry her grandly into another family, won¡¯t that be better! To put it simply, I don¡¯t want to have a concubine anymore.¡±


    Wang Shi sighed softly, ¡°Since you¡¯ve already put it that way, I will try to talk to her about it! But you have to find someone reliable for her, and give her a grand marriage!¡±


    ¡°I will!¡± Shi Fengju nodded.


    Watching as her son left the room joyfully, Wang Shi suddenly did not know whether to be happy for him or disappointed. Her son was not as submissive to Gu Fangzi as she had presumed. She should be ted, but Gu Fangzi had apanied her for so many years, and had served her wholeheartedly. It was impossible to say that she did not care for her!


    Now, knowing that Gu Fangzi would be married off, Wang Shi was suddenly reluctant to part with her. Furthermore, she subconsciously felt that even though Gu Fangzi had used her son behind her back, she nevertheless liked her son. If not, she would not have insisted on getting married during her mourning period. Telling her to remarry into another family, she would most likely refuse!


    ¡°Nanny Jiang, what do you think? Is this really his idea, or maybe Sang Wan was the one who instigated him?¡± Wang Shi voiced out her thoughts.


    Could Nanny Jiang simply agree with her view? She quickly smiled and replied, ¡°Maybe that might not be the case? Young Master has always acted upon his own decisions, and everyone in this household knows about his rtionship with Miss Gu. Considering Young Mistress¡¯ personality, I¡¯m afraid that she would shun anything that has to do with Miss Gu. So why would she even initiate such an idea to Young Master?¡±


    Wang Shi thought so too and she agreed. Sang Wan was not foolish. Knowing full well that Gu Fangzi was her husband¡¯s childhood sweetheart, would she not rather avoid the matter entirely instead of mentioning it without end to her husband? Otherwise, it would be the same as asking to be disliked!


    ¡°You¡¯re right! Sang Wan has a gentle and sweet-tempered, she doesn¡¯t look like the petty sort!¡± Wang Shi sighed lightly, and waved her hand, ¡°Since this is so, then let¡¯s not wait any longer. Invite Gu Fangzi over right this instant!¡±


    ¡°Understood, Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Jiang agreed and went off to assign the task.


    When Gu Fangzi heard that her aunt was calling for her, she was curious and quickly smiled to ask Xiu Li, who was here to inform her. Xiu Li did not know, and even if she did, she would not dare to talk about it. So she smiled and answered that she did not know. Seeing so, Gu Fangzi was unhappy and she thought to herself: Great, it hasn¡¯t even been long and all of you are already so sure that I won¡¯t get my authority back. How dare all of you treat me so impudently! Hmph, just wait until after my mourning period, I¡¯ll get back my authority to manage the household, and see how I¡¯ll punish all of you!


    ¡°Aunt Wang! You¡¯ve called for Fang¡¯er? Fang¡¯er is here to greet you!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and went up to greet her.


    In the past, Wang Shi¡¯s face would light up upon seeing her obedient face. But today when she saw her behavior, her mind immediately thought about how bossy she was in front of Shi Fengju, and her brows creased together. She nodded her head and smiled, ¡°Have a seat!¡±


    Gu Fangzi had long understood Wang Shi like the back of her hand, and her heart skipped a beat. She quickly epted and sat down docilely.


    This time, Nanny Jiang smiled and said to Lan Xiang, ¡°Lan Xiang, please follow me outside, there is an embroidery work that I would like you to help me have a look at!¡±


    Lan Xiang understood that her old mistress had something important to speak to her missy about, and agreed to leave with Nanny Jiang.


    ¡°Aunt Wang, did something happen? Aunt Wang can go ahead to tell Fang¡¯er, Fang¡¯er is willing to share part of your burden!¡± Gu Fangzi asked with concern.


    In front of me, she really is an obedient child! Wang Shi could not help but sigh to herself. She was so much morepelling than her daughter.


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, am I right to say that your mourning period ends next month?¡± Wang Shi sighed softly and asked.


    So it was about that! Gu Fangzi was feeling jubnt, but her face sank and she lowered her eyes as she nodded, ¡°Yes, in a blink of an eye, half a year has passed! Luckily, Aunt Wang and Big Cousin were there to look after me. If not, if not, Fang¡¯er wouldn¡¯t know how to get by! When the mourning period ends, Fang¡¯er will serve Aunt Wang and Big Cousin wholeheartedly, and repay all of you!¡±


    Wang Shi would naturally be happy if she said that in the past. However, no matter how Wang Shi listened and interpreted it, she simply could not swallow it. Repay all of their good? Her ordering Shi Fengju around, throwing tantrums, and giving him a difficult time, were those how she was going to repay them?


    ¡°Cough,¡± Wang Shi coughed and sighed, ¡°Aunt Wang here has given this much thought. Fang¡¯er, you are a decent girl, and also my blood-rted niece who I took care of since young. It wouldn¡¯t be fair for you to be a concubine!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was so happy hearing that that her heart bloomed brightly. Unfair for her to be a concubine? Then that would mean her aunt was going to change her status into that of a wife? Great, that was really great! That was what she had wanted!


    In the end, she is my aunt. All the many years of fawning over her had not gone to waste, she still remembers my good points!


    There was a sh of gratification in her eyes, and she lowered her eyes to say softly, ¡°Fang¡¯er does not feel she is being treated unfairly. As long as I can stay by Aunt Wang and Big Cousin¡¯s side, Fang¡¯er does not feel unjustly treated! In Fang¡¯er¡¯s heart, Aunt Wang is Fang¡¯er¡¯s second mother. Fang¡¯er will let Aunt Wang make all the decisions!¡±


    Of course Gu Fangzi would not refuse such a good opportunity. If Wang Shi was willing to promote her status, of course she would go with her choice! All the servants in the household would finally open their eyes wide to observe where the side of authority was leaning towards!


    Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°Fang¡¯er, Aunt Wang and your big cousin are always your family. If you have any grievances from now on,e and tell us, we will stand up for you!¡±


    That sounded unsettling to Gu Fangzi. She suddenly had a bad premonition but she nodded with a smile, ¡°Fang¡¯er has always known that Aunt Wang and Big Cousin are good to Fang¡¯er, and won¡¯t let me suffer! But in this household, no one will give Fang¡¯er any grievances!¡±


    Hearing her, Wang Shi was clear that she could no longer beat about the bush and said, ¡°Fang¡¯er, Aunt Wang feels that it will be better to arrange another marriage for you and make you into a proper wife. What do you think?¡±


    One of the most prominent traits of Wang Shi was how she could draw arge circle when beating about the bush, and then catch others by surprise when she went straight to her point.


    That was how Gu Fangzi felt at this exact moment. She was caught entirely by surprise and could not wrap her mind over what Wang Shi had mentioned.


    ¡°Aunt Wang, what, what, what are you saying?¡± Gu Fangzi spoke in disbelief, ¡°You want to arrange another marriage for me? Aunt Wang, but I am already married into the Shi household. I already belong to the Shi family, so how can I get married again!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression became extremely devastated and pitiful.


    Her mind was in a mess!


    Her aunt actually wanted to arrange another marriage for her? No, that must not happen! No matter how good the marriage was, there was no way it couldpare to the Shi household, or her big cousin. Not only that, if that really were to happen, then what was all her effort in the past for? Wouldn¡¯t it all go to waste?


    No matter what, she could not ept such an ending!


    ¡°Aunt Wang!¡± Gu Fangzi immediately kneeled in front of Wang Shi and tugged the corner of her robe as she begged in tears, ¡°Aunt Wang, please don¡¯t chase Fang¡¯er away. Fang¡¯er¡¯s mother passed away early and my father was ill-disciplined. Fang¡¯er had no one to teach me when I was young. Luckily, I had Aunt Wang take care of me all these years. If Fang¡¯er did anything wrong, please tell Fang¡¯er. Fang¡¯er will change! So Aunt Wang, please don¡¯t chase Fang¡¯er away. Fang¡¯er can¡¯t bear to leave you and Big Cousin! Fang¡¯er just want to stay by your side and pass the days happily together! Aunt Wang!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sobbed and begged. Wang Shi was someone with a soft heart. Let alone the fact that Gu Fangzi poked at all of her sore spots, Wang Shi could not help but recall all the moments she shared with Gu Fangzi over the years. In the past when she first arrived, she was still a very small girl with a skinny stature. She had a pair ofrge eyes, a cowardly expression, and did not dare to speak or y with anyone. She just stuck herself to her, and followed her everywhere. Even when Wang Shi was taking a bath, she would bring a small stool over and wait outside the bathroom, not willing to leave.


    Year after year went by and that little girl grew up into a mature young woman as beautiful as a flower. Even though she no longer followed her everywhere like when she was young, she still treated her with much respect, and was as considerate as if she was her own daughter! Seeing her break down into tears, Wang Shi¡¯s heart could not bear to remain firm with her stance. After all, her heart was not made of steel!


    ¡°Fang¡¯er, get up quickly!¡± Wang Shi bent her back to help her up and chided, ¡°What are you doing! Don¡¯t do this, hurry up and get up. Listen to me first!¡±


    After helping her up, she made her sit beside her before taking out a handkerchief to wipe away her tears. ¡°Fang¡¯er, listen carefully to what Aunt Wang is telling you. Aunt Wang is doing this for your own good! Your big cousin already has Sang Wan, and you are such a decent girl, why would you put yourself in such a position? Ai, I am the one in the wrong here, if I had known, then I should not have¡ª¡ª ai, it¡¯s toote to say anything now! Fang¡¯er, there¡¯s nothing to worry about. When you get married, Aunt Wang will not let you down!¡±


    ¡°No, no!¡± Gu Fangzi said with tears eyes, ¡°Aunt Wang, I only wish to be by Big Cousin and your side. Aunt Wang, I don¡¯t feel it¡¯s unfair to me. I beg you, please let me stay by your side, please!¡±

 Chapter 198 - Making insinuations

    <strong>Chapter 198: Making insinuations</strong>


    Gu Fangzi wiped her tears and said hesitantly, ¡°Aunt Wang, is it, is it because Sister Sang Wan cannot stand the sight of me anymore¡ª¡ª, Aunt Wang, I would never dare go against Sister Sang Wan! I am just an orphan; her older brother is now a top-escorted examinee, and will soon be a sessful candidate in the examinations. Will I dare to challenge her by knocking an egg on the stone? I will be obedient and not cross my line, Aunt Wang, please let me exin myself clearly to Sister Sang Wan?¡±


    ¡°There won¡¯t be any need to!¡± Wang Shi stopped her, ¡°It¡¯s hard to tell whether Sang Wan knows about this! Fang¡¯er, I¡¯ll speak truthfully to you, Fengju has it in mind too. Do you want to reconsider?¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s face immediately turned as pale as snow. Her aunt could not hide her thoughts; just a few clever words and Wang Shi would spill the beans! She would not believe that Sang Wan had no hand in this matter, however, she believed that Sang Wan did not have the courage and capability to convince Wang Shi to speak for her. Still, Wang Shi would not talk about this with her without a reason. This left her with only one possibility, this was her big cousin¡¯s idea!


    And she guessed it. However, without hearing it from Wang Shi with her own ears, she refused to believe her conjecture!


    But right now, she could only ept her fate! Her big cousin, her big cousin really was the one! He did not want her anymore, and wanted her to remarry!


    ¡°Aunt Wang,¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s tears were like beads falling from a broken string, ¡°Aunt Wang, Fang¡¯er cannot bear to leave you and Big Cousin! Fang¡¯er doesn¡¯t know what happened to him for him to have such consideration. Aunt Wang, if you ask Fang¡¯er, Fang¡¯er really doesn¡¯t want to leave! Fang¡¯er would rather be a servant than leave. Aunt Wang, please fulfill my wish!¡±


    ¡°Silly child what are you saying!¡± Wang Shi quickly held her hands. Since she had already said things to such a stage, Wang Shi became reluctant to convince her further. Having mixed emotions, she sighed, ¡°My good child, sigh, what can I say! Enough, stop crying. Good girl, you go back first and don¡¯t give this too much thought!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang, so Fang¡¯er can stay? Aunt Wang, please don¡¯t chase Fang¡¯er away!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes were teary.


    ¡°Why would I chase you away? Don¡¯t be foolish!¡± Wang Shi patted Gu Fangzi¡¯s hands softly before letting her take her leave.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was in a mess; how could she return in peace? However, she had no other choice. The problem did not lie with Wang Shi. She had to go back and tidy up her thoughts.


    ¡°Aunt Wang, Fang¡¯er will be going back now! I wille to visit Aunt Wang again tomorrow!¡± Gu Fangzi got up with her eyes still watery and said goodbye before leaving.


    Lan Xiang saw her missy with swollen eyes and tear stains, and was shocked. She did not dare to ask what happened inside and returned to Peony Park2 together with her. When they returned home, Gu Fangzi ordered her to close the doors before she could even ask, and coldly repeated what Wang Shi said to her.


    Lan Xiang waspletely taken aback, and her face turned pale! For a long while, she could not believe this was real!


    ¡°What happened these few days? Didn¡¯t I ask you to observe everything that happens in Ning Garden1? Have you found anything out?¡± Gu Fangzi demanded coldly.


    ¡°Nothing seemed to have happened, I think!¡± Lan Xiang pondered for a while before answering. If anything had happened, it would be that the rtionship between the young master and young mistress seemed to be getting better! But even if she was beaten to death, she would never dare to say so in Gu Fangzi¡¯s face.


    ¡°You think?¡± Gu Fangzi interrogated. Clearly she was very displeased.


    ¡°Ah!¡± All of a sudden, a thought came to Lan Xiang and she quickly corrected herself, ¡°This servant recalled that a few days ago, something strange did happen! On one morning, Young Mistress went to greet Old Mistress much earlier than usual, and I heard that she was ignored for almost half a day before she could speak to Old Mistress. After that, Young Master went as well. But when he left, he did not leave with Young Mistress. Instead, he left in a fit. After that, Old Mistress brought Young Mistress to Jiao Garden, and when they left, Old Mistress¡¯ face seemed to be contorted in anger. I heard that Young Mistress was pushed away when she wanted to hold her arm!¡±


    ¡°Was there really such a matter?¡± Gu Fangzi hurriedly asked, ¡°No matter how I hear it, It doesn¡¯t sound right. Why didn¡¯t you conduct a proper investigation?¡±


    Lan Xiang apologized while feeling wronged, ¡°After that day, everything returned to normal, almost as if nothing had happened, so this servant, this servant thought ¡ª¡ªthat it did not matter, so ¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°You fool!¡± Gu Fangzi creased her eyebrows and scolded, ¡°How many times have I told you, whatever happens in Ning Garden, you must remember them in your heart and investigate them thoroughly! Go and find out more about it right now! No, forget it! You can leave now, I want to be alone for a while!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Lan Xiang heaved a huge sigh of relief.


    Since this was rted to Shi Yumei, then things have be so much easier to handle. Rather than having Lan Xiang find out more in Ning Garden, she would rather fish for information from Shi Yumei and see if she could find out anything!


    Recalling what Wang Shi said, Gu Fangzi could not help but grind her teeth. Sang Wan, Sang Wan, she had belittled her in the end! In just a short span of half a year, she had stolen her big cousin from her, and Wang Shi no longer sided with her anymore! Third Old Mistress Shi was another person with no conscience. She had already forgotten about the help provided to her during her difficult time. She went as far as distancing herself, and even rejected my request to visit! How could she distance herself from me, and even reject my request for a visit! How slick as oil she is, no wonder she is the wife of an ex-official.


    On the next day, Gu Fangzi ordered Lan Xiang to deliver a te of desserts she made herself. Upon seeing the desserts, Shi Yumei remembered that she had not seen Gu Fangzi for three to four days already, and personally went to Peony Park to visit her.


    Gu Fangzi was already waiting for her arrival, and of course she behaved extremely intimate as they went on to have an idle talk.


    ¡°My mourning period will be ending soon so I¡¯ll have fewer restrictions by then and I will be able to spend more time to be with Cousin Yumei! Oh right, when the weather is good in around March or April, let¡¯s go take a walk and enjoy the view, how about that?¡± Gu Fangzi suggested with a smile.


    ¡°Sure! Speaking of which, we have not gone out together in a long time! Let¡¯s not forget to do some shopping too!¡± Shi Yumei added.


    ¡°En,¡± Gu Fangzi nodded meekly before smiling gently, ¡°Let¡¯s invite Big Cousin along too. We¡¯ll go together, all three of us!¡±


    Seeing the way she was, Shi Yumei could not help butugh and make fun of her, ¡°You¡¯re still calling him ¡®Big Cousin¡¯. By then, you should be calling Fengju ¡®Lord¡¯!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei!¡± Gu Fangzi feigned sweetly, but her eyes were full of joy as she spoke without doubt, ¡°Right now, Big Cousin is already my husband!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. The two of you have been close since young! Looks like the both of you are finally going to get together, I¡¯m so jealous of you!¡± Shi Yumei thought of herself and let out a sigh, ¡°Fangzi, you must be happy with Fengju!¡±


    Gu Fangzi nodded, ¡°My feelings for Big Cousin have never changed. Just that, just that I don¡¯t know whether Sister Sang Wan ¡ª¡ª¡± Her eyes darkened as she lowered her gaze to sigh softly.


    Shi Yumei stiffened slightly. For a while, she did not know what to say to console her and she sighed softly, ¡°Fangzi, allow me to say something unpleasant. I think Fengju really fell in love with Sang Wan! Ai, who knew what magic Sang Wan this girl did to make Fengju treat her so¡ª¡ª¡±


    Gu Fangzi felt unbearably bitter after hearing her and wanted to rant about Sang Wan to her. However, she remembered her purpose of inviting Shi Yumei over today, and she smiled bitterly, ¡°I can¡¯t me Big Cousin, with Sister Sang Wan¡¯s personality and appearance, how can I me Big Cousin for falling in love with her? I think there will not be many men in the world who will not fall in love with her? I heard that a few days ago, Aunt Wang got angry with Sister Sang Wan and Big Cousin because of this, I wonder if it¡¯s true!¡±


    Shi Yumei snorted and said, ¡°It¡¯s true! Mother has already mentioned it to me. That night, Fengju brought Sang Wan out to meet up with a few of his friends or something? It snowed a little when they came back, so Fengju that brat went to carry Sang Wan all the way back to Ning Garden from the horse carriage. I happened to be ill that night and Mother came to visit me. On her way back from my ce, she ended up bumping into them!¡± Shi Yumei covered her mouth to suppress a smile, ¡°You should have seen how ck Mother¡¯s face was when she talked to me about it the next morning! Hehe, I really wanted tough but did not dare to, and did not know what to say to coax her! Fengju that brat has always been like that. After all, didn¡¯t he like to do things for you in the past? What¡¯s the point of being so hung up on it when he did all of those willingly! I feel that Mother is being too overly-concerned!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was both taken aback and infuriated, her hands subconsciously grasped one another tightly. What did Cousin Yumei say? Her big cousin actually carried Sang Wan that vixen publicly, and even carried her all the way back from the second gate!


    He had never carried her before! Yet he actually carried Sang Wan!


    When they were together, the most they did was exchange affectionate gazes at each other, there was almost no skinship at all, and he never held her hands or kissed her before. That was all because she valued her chastity. She did not want him to feel that she was an easy woman; she wanted to maintain the most perfect image in his eyes! As such, even when she was going through difficult times, she would only lean on his shoulder to cry and he would only pat her lightly on the back. Never did he dare to go further than that!


    But he was so intimate with Sang Wan!


    Shi Yumei continued with a sigh, ¡°Seeing Mother with a thorn in her heart, I was sure that she would continue to feel terrible if I did nothing! So I told some of the old stories between you and Fengju which made her feel better and she stopped going on about it! Say, Fengju really, he¡¯s already a grown up now but he¡¯s still fooling around! Luckily it was only at night, if it was during the day, it would¡¯ve been embarrassing if anyone saw them! Sang Wan really, she could go overboard sometimes too!¡±


    Were it not for Sang Wan helping her during the New Year and ensuring no rumors were spread... Shi Yumei owed her a favor else her criticism would not just be an ¡®overboard¡¯. Shi Yumei knew that handling the entire household was never simple. With the incident happening within the household, if Sang Wan did not handle it carefully and instead took it as an opportunity to purposely let information leak out, then the entire household would know that their eldest missy was locked out of her house by her own husband! When that happens, even if she wanted an investigation to be conducted, it would never be traced back to Sang Wan. Sang Wan, as the Young Mistress of the Shi household, would she not have a minuscule channel to spread the news?


    After that night, Shi Yumei really changed her perception of Sang Wan. So much so that she even asked herself secretly, if Sang Wan and her roles were reversed that night, would she be able to do the same? The answer would definitely be no! Not throwing a rock at her when she fell was already fortunate for her, let alone giving her help!


    Gu Fangzi was stunned stiff. Although faint, she had somewhat caught a hint of what she was looking for.

 Chapter 199

    Chapter 199


    ¡°Cousin Yumei, you said, you said you told Aunt Wang... stories from our past?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s body trembled slightly.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Shi Yumeiughed and said, ¡°Fengju is used to fooling around with you when you were both still young, didn¡¯t he used to help you a lot with this and that? That¡¯s just him being himself, but for some reason, Mother wasn¡¯t too happy about it. She mentioned to me that she was so infuriated that she could not sleep! I really don¡¯t know what to say anymore! She really dotes on Fengju too much! But Fengju is not someone who doesn¡¯t know his limits. Furthermore, he isn¡¯t a child now; he won¡¯t behave like how he was in the past. Fooling around sometimes helps to be a change of pace for him! I had to coax Mother for quite a while!¡±


    Gu Fangzi suddenly felt her body turn as cold as ice. She had finally found the answer she was looking for! No wonder her aunt was acting a little weird yesterday, so this was the reason!


    Cousin Yumei, Cousin Yumei, why did you talk about the past all of a sudden! Do you know you will be the death of me this time! Gu Fangzi felt distressed and she cried out to the heavens in her heart!


    She knew Wang Shi more than Shi Yumei did. For Wang Shi to have heard those words from Shi Yumei, she would not only be mad at Sang Wan, but also at her too. Her imagination must have run wild which was no wonder that she had suggested arranging another marriage! If it was in the past, even if her cousin, Shi Fengju, was brainwashed by that vixen, Sang Wan, to arrange another marriage, her aunt would never agree. But yesterday, those words clearly came out from her aunt¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Why does yourplexion look so poor?¡± Shi Yumei sighed after finally realizing that Gu Fangzi was acting abnormal.


    ¡°Nothing, I¡¯m fine!¡± Gu Fangzi forced a smile and shook her head.


    Shi Yumei thought she knew Gu Fangzi well. She held her hands up and patted them as she sighed, ¡°You don¡¯t have to think too much! Sang Wan and Fengju¡¯s marriage was fixed by my grandfather and cannot be changed! Let alone the fact that she is now married into our family! Even though Fengju is nice to her, he doesn¡¯t treat you badly as well! Both of you have had feelings for each other since young; that cannot bepared with Sang Wan. Fangzi, must not attempt anything foolish! I am too familiar with Fengju¡¯s personality. So long as you don¡¯t do anything foolish, he will never turn his back on you!¡±


    ¡°Cousin Yumei!¡± Gu Fangzi knew that her own emotions were showing on her face and she quickly adjusted it back. With a smile, she said, ¡°I know that, you don¡¯t have to worry! Sister Sang Wan is Big Cousin¡¯s wife, why would I be so foolish as to scheme against her? It is only logical for Big Cousin to treat her well! I am happy as long as I can stay in the Shi household, and be by Aunt Wang and Big Cousin¡¯s side, really! I will always remember my ce!¡±


    Shi Yumei was feeling both satisfied yet sad at the same time. She smiled and spoke a while more with Gu Fangzi before leaving.


    After Shi Yumei left, Gu Fangzi was so mad she was speechless, and her face was as cold as ice. She never dreamt that the problem was because of Shi Yumei. In the end, the one to ruin her happiness entirely and remove her mightiest backing without any premonitions was Shi Yumei!


    Gu Fangzi was extremely infuriated, yet could not vent it out because she knew that Shi Yumei did not do so on purpose! However, what was done unintentionally was even more frustrating than what was done intentionally!


    Gu Fangzi knew how stubborn her aunt was. Since she now had ill-feelings towards her, to get on her good side, she had to think of a good way, and that required much brainstorming.


    While Gu Fangzi was gritting her teeth to regain her advantage, Shi Fengju told Sang Wan about his mother suggesting marriage to another family to Gu Fangzi in Ning Garden1Ning GardenSang Wan & Shi Fengju¡¯s ce of residence. Sang Wan was naturally worried about it, but she knew that the matter was not within her control, and not something that could be solved by being worried. As such, sheforted Shi Fengju gently to not rush the process and take his time. Seeing how she did not rush him, he was delighted. After all, she was his wife, and she knew his struggle!


    Gu Fangzi made the most of her time to express her filialness towards Wang Shi, and omitted any mention about leaving, almost as if Wang Shi had never suggested it to her before. Her expression remained undisturbed and she did not attempt to fawn over her or gain some sympathy. At first, Wang Shi was a little ufortable, but that feeling dissipated after awhile. Gu Fangzi saw that it was about time, and intentionally began to talk about some things from the past to Wang Shi. She did not say much but instead focused on the main point, the rest were for Wang Shi to imagine and make the connections herself. On a whole, it was about how she was young and insensible while her cousin remained patient with her which she was still forever grateful for.


    Again, Wang Shi¡¯s heart wavered after listening to Gu Fangzi. She suddenly thought of how her daughter spoke about them so casually, as if it was anything but serious. Her daughter had always been very protective of her brother. If Fangzi really was unreasonable, surely her daughter would not have been alright with it.


    Wang Shi was suddenly remorseful, as she felt she had used Gu Fangzi. Seeing how she was so filial and caring towards her, and so insistent, the thought of arranging her another marriage subsided.


    Gu Fangzi saw that her objective had been met, and was very ted. She sneered coldly, and tactfully did not talk about the remarriage at all as she put all her effort into serving Wang Shi. She could not wait for Sang Wan to take the initiative to talk about the remarriage with Wang Shi. When that happens, it would be seen as her own agenda! Wang Shi would deal with her herself, and she did not even have to make an appearance.


    Sang Wan was naturally not foolish enough to attract suspicion upon herself. About the remarriage, other than what Shi Fengju told her privately, she never expressed it and remained oblivious in front Wang Shi.


    Instead, it was Shi Fengju who could not hold his tongue and asked his mother how the remarriage was going.


    Wang Shi was unwilling to give a clear stance like before, and said ¡°Gu Fangzi¡¯s mourning period hasn¡¯t ended! This isn¡¯t something that can be handled cleanly so quickly!¡±


    Shi Fengju turned somewhat gloomy as he thought to himself: How can something so simple not be handled cleanly? But he said, ¡°I understand. Mother, then please let her know about it anytime. I will send someone to search for a suitable family to avoid being toote!¡±


    Hearing him, Wang Shi panicked, ¡°There¡¯s no need to rush this! Wait for awhile, just wait awhile more! Fengju, Fangzi has stayed in our household for so many years, and I¡¯ve always seen her as part of our family! My heart feels empty when you suddenly want to send her away! Fengju, why don¡¯t you think it through a little more! I think Fangzi is good woman, and didn¡¯t you like her a lot in the past? It¡¯s not as if our family cannot afford another bowl of rice, we should let her stay!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s expression changed, ¡°No way, I don¡¯t want her to stay at all!¡±


    Wang Shi finally realized something amiss, and her expression became solemn as she threaded her question slowly, ¡°Fengju, tell Mother honestly, did something happen between you and Fangzi?¡±


    How could he? Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows and said, ¡°Nevermind that, don¡¯t ask me anymore! Mother, I am being very serious. I cannot ept her as my concubine anymore. She has to leave in the end, if not, it will be the same as sabotaging her entire life!¡±


    Shi Fengju left immediately after throwing his words. Wang Shi was stunned and could not wrap her head around what he had said.


    Shi Fengju was furious as he red in the direction of Peony Park2Peony ParkGu Fangzi¡¯s ce of residence for a moment before heading towards the direction.


    He had wanted to leave some face for her by asking his mother to pass on the message, and finally letting his mother make the decision. When that happened, he would y a filial son who followed his mother¡¯s wishes. If it yed out that way, the eyes of outsiders or the people in the household would see it as the Old Mistress of the family feeling sorry for her niece and deciding on this decision in the end. The Young Master of the family, being filial, obeyed his mother¡¯s wishes. With that, it would be ideal for both parties!


    However, if she did not want this courtesy, then she should not me him for telling her directly!


    ¡°Big Cousin! You¡¯re here!¡± Upon seeing Shi Fengju, Gu Fangzi went to wee him with a smile and could not help but feel jubnt. She was very satisfied with what she had done. In the end, the problem reallyy with her aunt. She must have spoken some good words for her, if not, why would her cousine to Peony Park to see her?


    ¡°Big Cousin, I didn¡¯t think that you¡¯de! Lan Xiang, what are you waiting for? Go and pour a cup of tea!¡± Gu Fangzi grabbed Shi Fengju¡¯s arm happily and weed him before hurriedly ordering Lan Xiang.


    Shi Fengju pulled his arm away without hesitation, and took two steps back. He looked at her and said indifferently, ¡°I don¡¯t need the tea. Lan Xiang, you may leave! I have a few words to speak with you, and will leave once I¡¯m done.¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin, you, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s smile froze, tears clouding her eyes.


    In her attempt to make things difficult, Shi Fengju felt immensely disgusted. With his eyebrows creased, he said, ¡°Cousin Fangzi, there are no outsiders here so I will be direct with you! When your mourning period is over, I will find you a good family to marry into. Please be mentally prepared!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s tears rolled down as she said pitifully, ¡°Big Cousin, I don¡¯t want to marry into another good family, I just want to be with you, I just want to remain in the Shi household! Big Cousin, you were not like this in the past, how could you treat me like this! Please don¡¯t chase me away, I don¡¯t want to leave the Shi Household, I don¡¯t want to leave you and Aunt Wang!¡±


    Shi Fengju said, ¡°Cousin Fangzi, I have said this before, there are no outsiders here so you don¡¯t have to put up a front. I¡¯m tired of the way you act even if you don¡¯t feel that way! And please do not talk to me about the past anymore, I feel disgusted even listening to you! Regardless of how you think, I can only tell you this, the person I like is Sang Wan. Even if you continue to stay here, I won¡¯t touch you even once, so whatever for!¡±


    Gu Fangzi looked at him incredulously, and she suddenlyughed coldly, ¡°You finally admitted! You finally admitted!¡± It was almost as if she had finally caught his tail.


    Shi Fengju was out of words for a moment, but he felt more relieved than ever before. He nodded without avoiding, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve finally admitted and you¡¯ve finally gotten the answer you wanted, are you satisfied now?¡±


    Gu Fangzi was suddenly stunned. That¡¯s right, ever since Sang Wan entered the household, she had been asking him endlessly, and forcing him to answer her. However, he had always smiled and denied while asking her not to think too much, and not to worry so much! But she had never believed him! Instead, she believed her sixth sense and judgement more.


    And today, without her asking, he had finally told her honestly that the person who he liked was Sang Wan. Her spection had nowe true, and the truth showed that she was not wrong! She was right!


    So what now? Even though she was right, she clearly lost him at the same time!


    Gu Fangzi was at a loss. She did not know what sort of answer she was really looking for from the question that she was always so concerned about.

 Chapter 200

    Chapter 200


    Shi Fengju became more speechless the more he looked at her, ¡°Cousin Fangzi, you should give up now! The marriage between us wasn¡¯t widely known, and nothing really happened between us as well. It won¡¯t be difficult for our Shi family to find you a good husband. You won¡¯t have to worry!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want it, I don¡¯t want it!¡± Gu Fangzi shook her head vigorously, ¡°I don¡¯t want to leave! You can¡¯t do this to me, you can¡¯t! Big Cousin, even if you¡¯ve forgotten about our history, I am already part of the Shi family, I already belong to you! What are you thinking? How can you ask me to marry another man? Although I may not have read many books, but I still know that a woman has to remain faithful to her one and only husband!¡±


    Shi Fengju had no idea why there was no way to get through her, and his face turned dark all of a sudden, ¡°Do you actually think so? I don¡¯t understand, why must you be like this?¡±


    Gu Fangzi lowered her gaze as she cried without saying anything. Why must she be like this? How could she yield so willingly? She had nned and worked hard for more than ten years, how could she willingly give it all up when the prize was right in front of her? There was no way she¡¯d ept it!


    ¡°There is no need for you to think this way! I have already made myself clear that nothing happened between us, so there won¡¯t be any need for you to reason as such!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Gu Fangzi said with tears in her eyes, ¡°Big Cousin, I could never forget you even if you¡¯ve forgotten all about me! I am not leaving! It doesn¡¯t matter to me even if... even if you don¡¯t ept me, but please don¡¯t make me leave, please! I beg of you!¡±


    Shi Fengju once again had a taste of Gu Fangzi¡¯s ability to bind him. And it was because of this that he had no other choice but to marry her during her mourning period. Right at this very moment, she was doing it again.


    Shi Fengju asked all of a sudden, ¡°Why do you insist on staying in the Shi household?¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart immediately sank. Why? Of course it was because of him! Gu Fangzi mumbled as she cried, ¡°I¡¯m not willing to leave, I¡¯m not willing to leave...¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head in ridicule and sneered, ¡°If that¡¯s what you¡¯ve decided for yourself, then there¡¯s nothing else for me to say! You may pick any one of the Shi family¡¯s country house and stay there! Either you get married or stay at our country house, you will make your decision between these two choices!¡±


    ¡°Big Cousin!¡± Gu Fangzi suddenlyunched forward and grabbed Shi Fengju¡¯s sleeves tightly, ¡°Why must you do this to me? I have already corrected myself and the promise I made to you to always be aware of my identity, I will definitely keep my promise. So why, why must you still do this to me? Can¡¯t you see that I have already changed? Big Cousin!¡±


    Shi Fengju shook her hands away and said, ¡°Really? But I don¡¯t think so! Enough! Stop treating me like a fool; even if I am not able to guess all of your thoughts, I am clear of most of them. There¡¯s no outsiders here, so there is no need for you to try so hard to put up an act! I have made myself clear, so think it through carefully! I hope you can make the right choice when your mourning period ends!¡±


    Shi Fengju sneered quietly and left Peony Park2Peony ParkGu Fangzi¡¯s ce of residence.


    Gu Fangzi staggered and grabbed the arm of a chair while trembling, her teary eyes full of hatred. Her hate was real! Sang Wan, did she really think she could take everything from her so easily? She would never let that happen!


    Gu Fangzi soon fell ill. First she got a fever, then she started coughing without stop and had to rest in bed. The doctor saw to her and determined that she had caught a cold and suffered from lots of pent-up frustrations. Thebination of the two caused her to be unable to get out of bed, and only after those frustrations were released with the timely consumption of her medicines would she get better.


    Gu Fangzi being ill rmed Wang Shi and Shi Yumei, and the two of them went to visit her in Peony Park. Without a choice, Sang Wan had to apany them as well.


    Wang Shi was clear about what Gu Fangzi was bothered about and was left in a dilemma. Her son was firm in his decision while Gu Fangzi fell ill worrying about it! She was indeed in a difficult position as she cared for the both of them.


    Gu Fangzi remained polite and had a weak smile on her face when Wang Shi, Shi Yumei, and Sang Wan arrived even though her face was still pale. Seeing her in such a state, Wang Shi¡¯s heart ached deeply.


    ¡°You should stop worrying! Nothing can be more important than your own health, right? My dear Fang¡¯er, by the time you recover, this aunt of yours will definitely settle your troubles for you!¡± Wang Shi held her hands as sheforted her softly.


    She then turned to Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ll have to take better care of things here in Peony Park as Fang¡¯er has fallen sick. Don¡¯t forget to send a servant here to check on her condition frequently!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s meaning was clear. Her words were to soothe Gu Fangzi as well as to let Sang Wan prepare beforehand by telling her that Gu Fangzi belonged to Shi Fengju!


    Who knew that before Sang Wan could say a word, Gu Fangzi coughed and grabbed the chance to speak, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, Aunt Wang. Fang¡¯er will take good care of myself and do my best to recover as soon as possible! I know that Sister Sang Wan is busy and I wouldn¡¯t want to trouble her over something so minor. Otherwise, I would feel uneasy! Lan Xiang and the servants here are enough!¡±


    ¡°Listen to what you¡¯re saying! You¡¯re a patient, don¡¯t think about it!¡± Wang Shi pouted at her.


    There was no way Gu Fangzi would ept, and her anxious face turned red as she insisted on not troubling Sang Wan, saying that having Lan Xiang was more than enough. With no other choice, Wang Shi could onlyply with her.


    Wang Shi¡¯s heart ached even more when she saw Gu Fangzi smiling at her gratefully as if she was feeling very relieved. Her niece had suffered greatly! And she had be more thoughtful as well!


    Wang Shi sighed and held Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand. However, she did not know what to say.


    Gu Fangzi forced a smile and said, ¡°I am still sick, so I won¡¯t ask Aunt Wang, Cousin Yumei and Sister Sang Wan to stay any longer, otherwise, I would feel bad if you were to fall sick because me! A few days more and it¡¯ll be the 1st of February. From what I recall, Aunt Wang would always head to Plum Blossom Temple and stay there for a few days at this time every year. It¡¯s too bad that Fang¡¯er won¡¯t be able to apany Aunt Wang there!¡±


    ¡°Stop worrying about it. Although Aunt Wang knows that you are filial, it doesn¡¯t have to be shown in such a way! Rest well. I will ask for an amulet for you when get back!¡± Wang Shi was touched seeing how Gu Fangzi was still concerned about her even though she was so seriously ill.


    ¡°Thank you, Aunt Wang!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s smile was weak and full of gratefulness. She then said to Sang Wan, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, Sister Sang Wan will have to apany Aunt Wang more this time round. Please pray for more blessings on my behalf!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Sang Wan forced smiled and nodded.


    After a while more of chatting, they left Peony Park.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Shi Yumei suddenly called Sang Wan when they were about to leave Peony Park and she said bluntly, ¡°Where has Fengju been? Why didn¡¯t hee and visit Fangzi when she¡¯s so sick?¡±


    Sang Wan became frustrated and asked in her heart: Why would you ask me whether or not he ising?


    ¡°Enough,¡± Wang Shi frowned and said. Her son had made himself clear in front of her that day, there was no way he woulde and visit her. ¡°Mention this to Fengju when you are back, Sang Wan! Ai, Fang¡¯er is quite pitiful!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother.¡± Sang Wan answered softly.


    Wang Shi nodded and told her there was no need to follow her, before she left with Shi Yumei.


    Sang Wan still walked with them for a while more before she turned to head to Ning Garden1Ning GardenSang Wan & Shi Fengju¡¯s ce of residence. Upon reaching Ning Garden, she passed on Wang Shi¡¯s words properly to Shi Fengju.


    ¡°I think she is seriously sick, she looked so haggard and pallid.¡± Sang Wan said gloomily.


    Shi Fengju was annoyed when Gu Fangzi¡¯s name was mentioned and sneered, ¡°It¡¯s easy to catch a cold during this time of the year! I¡¯m sure she did that to herself! I¡¯ve truly underestimated her!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly stopped him and pouted, ¡°Others will think of you as someone who is cold-blooded if they heard you!¡±


    Shi Fengju grunted, ¡°I am cold blooded, why would I be scared of others hearing me? She wants me to visit her? She can dream about it! Meanwhile, I would like to see how long her illness canst. She would have my admiration if she can remain sick forever!¡±


    Sang Wan looked at Shi Fengju dazedly and was absent-minded for a moment. She couldn¡¯t help but ask herself, did he feel the same whenever she was mentioned to him in her previous life?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shi Fengju held her hands and squeezed them when he saw her staring at him nkly. He gazed at her tenderly and smiled, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mother is already clear about my stand, she won¡¯t me it on you if I don¡¯t visit her! Ai, the only thing is that her marriage will have to be dyed since she¡¯s sick. Sang Wan, please give me more time.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled and said, ¡°No one can force her to leave when she¡¯s sick! You... you don¡¯t have to always be concerned about it, it can be settled gradually.¡± Gu Fangzi would never give up so easily, would she?


    ¡°En,¡± Shi Fengju nodded and he finally rxed, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m relieved that you can say that!¡±


    ¡°Mother is going to Plum Blossom Temple on the first day of February, and I will have to apany her. I have no idea how it was prepared for the past years, so I¡¯ll be going off to ask Nanny Li and the servants from the household department about it and start preparing for it soon!¡± Sang Wan smiled and stood up after talking with him for a while.


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°Then I will go and visit Third Uncle, you can go ahead!¡± He got changed and left soon after.


    In the Peony Park, Gu Fangzi¡¯s face remained pale and pallid. She was light-headed as shey in bed with her eyes looking cold and dreadful.


    Being sick was just a pretense, she was actually using it to get rid of a future suspicion.


    ¡°Be sure to inform Ah San to get in touch with Mister Hong, and pass on the message that I¡¯ve just told you. Make sure you do not forget!¡± Gu Fangzi red at Lan Xiang.


    This was the first time Lan Xiang was actually put in charge, so it was inevitable for her to be nervous. She stroked the note worth fifty silvers in her pocket subconsciously and said, ¡°Missy, are you sure you want to do this?¡±


    ¡°Why? You aren¡¯t going to help me?¡±


    ¡°This servant doesn¡¯t dare!¡± Lan Xiang hurriedly kneeled.


    ¡°Get up! Leave and finish the task!¡± Gu Fangzi sneered and said, ¡°You just have to pass my words on to him, do you think this will have anything to do with you?¡±


    ¡°This servant understands!¡± Lan Xiang let out a deep breath after being assured.


    On the first day of February when the first ray of light appeared in the sky, Sang Wan, Shi Yumei, and Shi Lian went into the carriage heading towards Plum Blossom Temple, together with Wang Shi, and followed by a few servants as well as nannies.


    Every year on this day, Wang Shi would bring the girls along to Plum Blossom Temple to pray for herte husband, as well as for the blessings for her entire family.


    Abbess Su Heng, the one in charge of Plum Blossom Temple, was quite close to Wang Shi. The temple had already been tidied up a few days ago to wee them. Two days ago, Sang Wan also sent a few servants over to get everything else in order so that everything was well-prepared when Wang Shi and the rest arrived.


    Abbess Su Heng came out to wee Wang Shi personally and brought them to Qing Qiu Garden where Wang Shi always stayed whenever she was here. After saying a few greetings to each other, Wang Shi led her daughters and daughters-inw to kowtow to Bodhisattva before they went into another room to talk with Abbess Su Heng.


    From the next day onward, Wang Shi would kneel in the side hall of the temple together with Abbess Su Heng to chant the scriptures and pray, she would listen to Abbess Su Heng¡¯s teachings of Buddha, and it would go on for three days before they return to the Shi household.


    Sang Wan and the rest were only with Wang Shi for the first day before Wang Shi sent them out on the second day onward.

 Chapter 201 - Plum Blossom Forest

    <strong>Chapter 201: Plum Blossom Forest</strong>


    This was Sang Wan¡¯sst vegetarian meal when Liu Ya suddenly asked if there was any pretty scenery around the temple. The nun who delivered the food smiled and said, ¡°I was thinking of letting you know about it even without you asking! This temple is called Plum Blossom Temple, the plum blossom trees here are a must see! There are a few hectares of plum blossom trees right behind the temple. The weather here is cooling and it allows the flowers to bloom splendidly to form a sea of flowers; it would be a pity if Young Mistress did not visit it! Why don¡¯t you follow me to have a lookter?¡±


    ¡°Well...¡± Sang Wan hesitated for a while before refusing with a smile, ¡°I think I¡¯ll pass. I will visit it next time if I have the chance!¡±


    Her mother-inw was praying for blessings; although she did not need Sang Wan to apany her, it would be inappropriate for her to be out having fun.


    The nun smiled and persuaded, ¡°You¡¯ll have to wait an entire year for the next chance toe by. That will be a very long wait! Even the Shi family¡¯s eldest missy who visited yesterday said it was worth the visit! Everyone in Qingzhou loves the plum blossom flowers here! They say the flowers blooming here are better and vibrant than those outside!¡±


    Upon hearing so, Liu Ya became tempted and could not help but join hands with the nun to persuade Sang Wan. With theirbined effort, Sang Wan got talked into it, and they followed the nun once the dishes were cleared away.


    ¡°Look, Young Mistress, that¡¯s the ce!¡± After a short walk, the nun pointed to an indistinct cloud of red which began toe into sight.


    The master and servant look towards the direction. True enough, the scene before them deserved praise.


    When they were nearly there, a little nun suddenly came up to them from out of nowhere. While panting, she leaned towards the nun who was leading the way and whispered something into her ear. Taken aback by her words, the nun, who led the way, smiled apologetically to Sang Wan and Liu Ya, ¡°Because something happened at the temple, I¡¯ll have to make a trip back. Young Mistress, you¡¯ll arrive at the spot after taking a turn around this corner and past the back gate! Then I¡¯ll have to bid farewell to you here!¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your trouble!¡± Sang Wan nodded and smiled before going ahead with Liu Ya.


    Once they stepped out of the back gate, the sea of plum blossom flowers were right before their eyes. A sweet fragrance filled their noses as the boundless sea of flowers bloomed in red, pink, and white.


    ¡°Young Mistress, these plum blossom flowers do indeed bloom nicely!¡± Liu Ya smiled andplimented.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because they are growing near the temple which has a spiritual influence on the area!¡± Sang Wan joked.


    ¡°Xixi, those were some wonderful words, Big Sister-inw! I feel as if I somewhat understand!¡± A young maiden dressed in bright yellow approached from the side while holding two stalks of plum blossom flowers. Beside her was her servant, Cai Yun, who was wearing a turquoise uniform coat and a white long skirt.


    That maiden was Shi Lian.


    ¡°Third Sister!¡± Sang Wan was fond of her and hurriedly went up to her, ¡°You¡¯re here as well!¡±


    ¡°En, I wanted to have a walk around here since we are going back tomorrow. I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d see Big Sister Sang Wan here as well! How careless of me, I should have asked you out!¡± Shi Lian smiled and held Sang Wan¡¯s arm.


    ¡°No worries, we did end up meeting here in the end, didn¡¯t we?¡± Their eyes met and they giggled as they walked into the plum blossom forest whileplimenting the flowers.


    The plum blossom flowers near the temple lived up to their name and the two enjoyed their time around the flowers. ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Suddenly, they heard Zhide calling out as she headed towards the plum blossom forest to search for Sang Wan.


    Liu Ya quickly ran ahead towards Zhide to bring her over.


    ¡°Young Mistress! Oh, Third Missy is here as well!¡± Zhide ran up to them before bowing as he panted.


    ¡°Why are you so flustered? Calm yourself and speak slowly!¡± Sang Wang smiled and said.


    Zhide looked at Shi Lian and hesitated. Sang Wan noticed her hesitation and gently chided, ¡°What are you worrying about? Third Missy isn¡¯t an outsider! Is my mother-inw looking for me?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Zhide shook her head before she smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s that, Young Master is back...¡±


    Blood rushed to Sang Wan¡¯s face, who became somewhat embarrassed. Shi Lian could not help but chuckle as she nudged Sang Wan and smiled, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, you should hurry since Big Brother is back! He must be waiting for you!¡±


    ¡°We should go together too!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    ¡°I still want to have a look around the area. Big Sister Sang Wan, you should hurry, don¡¯t make Big Brother wait too long for you!¡±


    Sang Wan stopped insisting. She smiled and parted ways with Shi Lian together with Zhide and Liu Ya.


    The temple did not allow male pilgrims to enter, hence, Shi Fengju had to wait at the back of the mountain. Sang Wan followed Zhide and exited the plum blossom forest. Not long after, she saw a smiling Shi Fengju who was waiting for her under a cluster of bamboo.


    Zhide and Liu Ya read the atmosphere and retreated away from them as Sang Wan approached him with a smile, ¡°Why are you here? I was with Third Sister in the plum blossom forest; you should have went in to find us instead of asking Zhide to bring me out!¡±


    ¡°I only wanted to see you,¡± Shi Fengju led her by her hand to the back of the cluster of bamboo, where he hugged her tightly and kissed her on her forehead. ¡°Did you miss me?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tease me!¡± Sang Wan pushed him away, embarrassed, before smiling, ¡°There¡¯s a time and ce for everything!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, nobody will see us here!¡± Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°we are being blocked by the bamboo, and Zhan Huan is guarding the slope!¡±


    Sang Wan was speechless: this person really is ...


    ¡°So did you miss me, hmm?¡± Shi Fengju deepened his tone and whispered in her ear. Although they had only been apart for two days, he felt out of ce. He could not concentrate on his work, and could not sleep at night when he was home. As such, he might as well make his way over to find her. Only when he held her in his arms and kissed her would the uneasiness in his heart settle down.


    Sang Wang nodded and buried her face in his chest, too embarrassed to raise her head.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju called out in a low voice, as he lifted her chin and gave her a deep kiss. The moan Sang Wan made unconsciously was swallowed by him and she couldn¡¯t help but wrap her arms around his waist as she raised her head to ept his kiss.


    The two pull away from each other after a long while. Shi Fengju brushed his finger against Sang Wan¡¯s red and tender lips as heughed deeply, ¡°Sang Wan, I can¡¯t seem to fall asleep without you by my side, you have topensate me when we go back!¡±


    Sang Wan hit him lightly, ¡°Look at you, saying these words at a ce like this! Mother will get mad at me if she heard you!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and trapped her tightly in his arms, ¡°Bodhisattva only takes care of the things happening within the temple and does not have time for this big big world so there¡¯s no need for you to be afraid! Mother will be too busy to get mad at you, rest assured!¡±


    Sang Wanughed aloud, ¡°We will be going back tomorrow so you shouldn¡¯t have made an extra effort toe here. Hurry home before the sun sets. The sun in the early spring isn¡¯t warm so the journey home will be colder if you leaveter.¡±


    ¡°I will apany you for a little more; it doesn¡¯t hurt for me to sleep over at a nearby house tonight so that we can go home together tomorrow!¡± Shi Fengju came such a long way just to see her so he was not willing to go home so soon.


    Upon hearing him, Sang Wan no longer tried to persuade him. Instead, both of them sat close together as they had a private conversation.


    ¡°Young Master! Young Mistress! Not good! Not good!¡± Zhide¡¯s wavering voice reached Shi Fengju and Sang Wan, who received a shock.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± They came out from the back of the bamboo cluster. It was clear that Shi Fengju was unhappy when he gave Zhide a dark look. He was just enjoying a short but sweet time with his beloved wife in this splendid ce when it got disrupted. It was already considered tolerant of him to not chase Zhide away.


    ¡°It¡¯s Third Missy! Third Missy...¡±


    ¡°What happened to Third Sister! Hurry and bring us there!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed immediately. Did Shi Lian fall or get bitten by some venomous snakes or insects? That would be terrible!


    ¡°Young Mistress, you shouldn¡¯t go!¡± Zhide quickly went to stop Sang Wang before forcing herself to speak, ¡°A young master came out of nowhere and began pestering Third Missy. When Liu Ya and I heard themotion, Liu Ya went over to protect Third Missy while I hurried here to inform you about it. I¡¯m not sure how things are going now!¡±


    ¡°How preposterous!¡± Shi Fengju said coldy, ¡±Which directions to?¡±


    Zhide hurriedly gave the directions.


    Shi Fengju told Sang Wan, ¡°You should head over to the temple with Zhide, I will go and take a look!¡±


    ¡°Be careful, make sure Third Sister is not taken advantage of!¡± Sang Wan nodded her head as she knew that it would be inappropriate for her to follow along.


    ¡°I know! You should go back quickly!¡± Shi Fengju turned around and hurriedly walked in the direction Zhide pointed to.


    ¡°Young Mistress, let¡¯s head back quickly!¡± Zhide was unwilling to stay outside any longer as she was afraid of getting Sang Wan involved in any bad rumors.


    Upon returning through the back gate, Sang Wan and Zhide waited nervously at the garden for further news. Sang Wan was not worried about what Zhide was afraid of. After all, she was with Shi Fengju all the while so it would be impossible for her to be caught in any bad rumors with him as her witness.


    After a short while, Liu Ya and Cai Yun was supporting Shi Lian, whose hair and dress was slightly messy. Sang Wan heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Big Sister Sang Wan!¡± Shi Lian called out as she held back her tears. Sang Wan returned a fewforting words before ordering Liu Ya and Zhide to apany Shi Lian to the back of some bushes in the garden to tidy herself up before Sang Wan went out of the back gate to see Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Is Third Sister alright?¡± Sang Wan asked softly.


    ¡°She¡¯s alright.¡± Shi Fengju shook his head and said gently, ¡°Don¡¯t let Mother and the others know of this, you should head back and rest first. I will tell you in detailter, so head back first!¡±


    This time, Sang Wan was no longer the one to urge him to leave.


    She knew that they were not in a suitable ce to discuss things so she nodded and said, ¡°You should be heading back soon as well. Be careful on the road. I will be returning to the household with Mother and the others tomorrow!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and nodded his head as he watched Sang Wan make her way back. His expression turned dark when he was reminded of what happened just now.


    Although Shi Lian was not born from the same mother, she was still a missy from the Shi Family. Hong Xi, that scoundrel, better not think that he could get away with things just because he was the son of a senior provincial government official!


    After Sang Wan finishedforting Shi Lian in the side room, the group of people returned to their own rooms to rest. Liu Ya and Zhide served Sang Wan quietly and were no longer making anyments about leaving the temple.


    Liu Ya was secretly d that her Young Master called for her Young Mistress at that unexpected moment. Otherwise, it might have been her young mistress meeting that Mister Hong, and her young mistress was prettier and had a better temperament than Third Missy. One look and anyone could tell that that man was a lecher!


    The more Sang Wan thought, the more worried she was, but she could not simply ask Liu Ya and Zhide because the walls in the temple might have ears. As such, she could only hold herself back.


    On the next day, when they were leaving the temple as a group, Shi Lian¡¯sposure had recovered, and she gave a nod and returned a smile when she noticed Sang Wan looking at her worriedly. With this, Sang Wan¡¯s worry eased.


    Upon returning to the household, Wang Shi gave an order for them to return to their respective houses.

 Chapter 202 - The Hong Family

    <strong>Chapter 202: The Hong Family</strong>


    When Sang Wan returned to Ning Garden1, Shi Fengju had already left for work. She found an excuse to send Nanny Li away after washing up and changing into a new set of clothes before ordering Zhide to watch the door while she sent a servant to call Liu Ya into the side room to talk about the details.


    She received a huge shock when Liu Ya spoke about everything she knew.


    ¡°That Mister Hong is actually the son of the magistrate?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Liu Ya said angrily, ¡°Who knew that the magistrate would have such a hedonistic son! How shameless of him!¡± Liu Ya was disgusted when she recalled the scene of him greasily introducing himself as he dragged Third Missy Shi while saying words like ¡°It¡¯s your blessing to be with me as I can assure you that you can enjoy your life wonderfully here in Qingzhou! No one will challenge your authority in this city!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress, you don¡¯t have to worry. Young Master promised that he would handle it! Our Shi family is not for others to trifle with and will not sit idle when our missies are taken advantage of!¡± As she spoke, she sighed as she had yet to get over the fear, ¡°It was fortunate that Young Mistress wasn¡¯t there at that scene, and Young Master was there in time, otherwise, this servant and Cai Yun were really...really...¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s hands trembled and her face paled slightly. If not for Shi Fengju being there, there was no way such an incident could be easily kept hidden! The temple was very likely to be alerted, and when that happened, how would Wang Shi remain oblivious? The situation would only be messy¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Since Young Master already has a n, you and Zhide have to keep this a secret and not mention a single word about it, do you understand? You must not babble about it even in front of Third Missy; behave like how you always do and pretend like it never happened, am I clear?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded and let her leave, iming that she was tired and wanted some rest.


    Since this incident had to do with Magistrate Hong, Sang Wan could not help but be worried that Shi Lian¡¯s reputation might get damaged.


    Early in the morning, Magistrate Hong received a letter from Third Old Master Shi. Although Third Old Master Shi was on leave, it was a simple task for him to use his personal connections to return to the imperial court with the help of the Shi family¡¯s wealth. Third Old Master Shi¡¯s position in the court was around the same as Magistrate Hong¡¯s and he had visited and greeted Magistrate Hong during the new year. As such, Magistrate Hong did not dare to neglect the letter and hurriedly opened it.


    After reading through the letter, his face turned green with anger.


    Third Old Master Shi had been obscure with his message. Written in his letter, he mentioned that what has passed is past and nothing about the incident was to be mentioned again. However, in his letter, he also wrote that he hoped for nothing like that to ever happen again. The meaning behind the letter was clear: It was to keep peace and ask him to discipline his own son.


    Magistrate Hong had two sons. The eldest son was helping his grandfather with the family business in their hometown, while the second son followed his father and mother. His second son had just reached neen this year and had not gotten married yet. However, he had three concubines.


    It wasn¡¯t them who were not worried about their son¡¯s marriage, rather he was not in a hurry to get married. Hong Xi, their second son, indulged in his mother¡¯s love, and with his father as a local official, he idled and yed everyday, how would he be willing to marry a wife and end up having his activities restricted?


    Magistrate Hong was aware of his activities, but he was not so bothered about it as wasn¡¯t it normal for a young master like his son to behave slightly hedonistic? He had never been strict on him as his wife was always protective of him and the fact that he had been sober enough to not make any intractable trouble; at the very least no lives were threatened.


    But who knew that he would end up involving the Shi family? How could he attempt to assail a missy from the Shi family?


    Magistrate Hong went back to his residence furiously. Unable to find his son anywhere, he said to his wife with a dark expression, ¡°Where is that unfilial son of ours? Where did he go fooling around again?¡±


    ¡°Old Lord, what¡¯s going on with you today? What made you so angry all of a sudden?¡± Old Mistress Hong was frightened and she hurriedly stood up to help her husband take a seat.


    Magistrate Hong shook her hands away and sat down angrily by himself. He said coldly, ¡°Send someone to bring me back our unfilial son! I have something to ask him! Hmph, did you ask him about what happened? You¡¯d better ask your son what fine deed he has done outside!¡±


    Old Mistress Hong was dissatisfied by his reply and pouted, ¡°Xi¡¯er is still young, isn¡¯t it normal for a young man to be yful? Which one of the young masters doesn¡¯t behave this way? Why is it only our son getting criticized? He will naturally change for the better in a few years time when he gets married and build a family!¡±


    Magistrate Hong became even more triggered when marriage was mentioned, and he mmed the tea table while yelling, ¡°Don¡¯t think that I have no idea what that disgraceful son of mine is thinking. He is just afraid of being chained down once he gets married, isn¡¯t he? You should quickly pick a decent family for him, wait no, pick a girl who is astute and firm for him. This unfilial son would really have no self-restraint if there is still no one to get him under control! If you are not going to discipline him, then getting our future daughter-inw to do so would be the same!¡±


    Did he just disparage her as being inferior to their future daughter-inw? Old Mistress Hong immediately scolded, ¡°What kind of father are you? How could you bear to see your son married to a shrew! Your son won¡¯t be left with any face if he was to live under the control of a woman! He would never be able to amount to anything in his entire life!¡±


    ¡°Amount to anything?¡± Magistrate Hong sneered at her dismissively, ¡°It would be a blessing from our Hong family¡¯s ancestors if he doesn¡¯t cause any trouble for me!¡±


    Old Mistress Hong was unable to respond for a moment, but sighed soon after, ¡°Old Lord, you have been angry ever since you got back, shouldn¡¯t you at least tell me what happened?¡±


    Magistrate Hong said angrily, ¡°Do you have any idea what our unfilial son did yesterday? He has the utmost bravery to assail a young missy from the Shi family! I was only given the position here during the second half of the year and have yet to gain a firm foothold, how dare I fall afoul of a local influential family? The Shi family is a wealthy family and their third old master is an official at the imperial court as well. Now that their young mistress¡¯ brother is a top-escorted examinee, perhaps he would be an advanced or even a top schr! In front of them, even I have to be polite, but look at him, he actually dared to assail their unmarried young missy! Isn¡¯t he finding trouble for me? Third Old Master Shi¡¯s letter arrived today, early in the morning, telling me about it!¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s because of this!¡± Unexpectedly, Old Mistress Hong did not even frown when she heard about it and said with an understatement, ¡°I was wondering what would make my old husband so angry! Xi¡¯er has already told me about it!¡±


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Magistrate Hong goggled and bellowed, ¡°You already knew about this? Then why didn¡¯t you tell me sooner since you already knew about this?¡± While feeling extremely furious, he could not help but scold his unfilial and disgraceful son in his heart.


    This time around, he was feeling a little jealous rather than angry. That disgraceful son of his, how could he tell his mother and not him? Did he still see him as his father? He had better not forget who was the one who provided him with everything he now had!


    ¡°Oh, Old Lord, you shouldn¡¯t be so fierce to him! Look at yourself, you can¡¯t me him for not daring to tell you!¡± Old Mistress Hong said unhappily. She then hurriedly forced another smile and said, ¡°Old Lord, you should calm down and hear me out first! Xi¡¯er told me yesterday that he really liked that young missy from the Shi family, and asked me to send someone to ask the Shi family for their missy¡¯s hand in marriage to be his concubine!¡±


    Before Old Mistress Hong could finish, Magistrate Hong interrupted her, ¡°What are you thinking? Are you trying to get a concubine out of a young missy from the Shi family?¡±


    Old Mistress Hong humphed and said with understatement, ¡°Our son is a legitimate heir while their third missy is the daughter of a concubine. They are merchants while we¡¯re officials; none among both families are unworthy of each other when ites to family background. Surely they can¡¯t be unsatisfied if she bes our son¡¯s concubine, can they? Moreover, this is also a solution to yesterday¡¯s incident, isn¡¯t it? Our son can be partly med for the incident yesterday, but I would say, it takes two hands to p, their third missy wouldn¡¯t be venturing about like that if she was a decent one. It was her fate to run into our Xi¡¯er! What¡¯s more, any woman is a woman worth chasing for. Wouldn¡¯t it benefit us all now that Xi¡¯er is willing to marry her since he had fallen for her at first sight? If we marry her into our family grandly, their third missy¡¯s reputation would not be affected in any way too!¡±


    Magistrate Hong was at a loss for words and his heart couldn¡¯t help but waver.


    What his wife had said was notplete nonsense.


    Having observed that her words were working, Old Mistress Hong was secretly pleased, and she seized the chance to further persuade him, ¡°Think about it, Old Lord, since you are new to this city, it would benefit you if you were able to form a connection with the Shi family! Since their third missy is just a concubine¡¯s daughter, it wouldn¡¯t be unfair to her if she¡¯s married to our son; the Shi family has no reason to refuse our proposal as well. I¡¯m afraid they would even be more than willing to!¡±


    Magistrate Hong remained quiet.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled!¡± Old Mistress Hong was pleased as she had finally resolved the issue that her son had been importuning her about. With a smile, she said, ¡°I will get the servants to prepare themselves and head over to the Shi household for the proposal tomorrow! I assure you that they will agree to it!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright! You do whatever you like, I can¡¯t be bothered anymore!¡± Magistrate Hong stamped his feet as he got up and left, thinking about how he should reply to Third Old Master Shi¡¯s letter.


    ¡°Alright, you can stop hiding ande out now!¡± Old Mistress Hong saidzily with a smile as she rested on the couch.


    A young man in a long reddish brown gown with a round cor came out from behind the screen with a smile. He huddled beside Old Mistress Hong and said while beaming, ¡°Mother, you¡¯re so amazing! You got this settled so smoothly!¡±


    ¡°Hmph, be more careful next time and don¡¯t be so impetuous!¡± Old Mistress Hong poked his forehead as she scolded him with a smile.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you worry, Mother, I¡¯ll bear that in mind!¡± Hong Xiughed.


    Although Hong Xi had not been in Qingzhou for very long, his reputation of being prurient was widely spread within the entire city. There was no way he could control his urge when he heard that there was a beauty in the forest of plum blossom trees behind Plum Blossom Temple. He rushed over in a hurry!


    He did not expect to actually see a beautiful young woman there. Moreover, it was fascinating to watch a beauty admire the flowers and enjoy the scenery while he was surrounded by plenty of beautiful flowers. How could he hold himself back from stepping forward to flirt with her?


    It was purely entertainment and meant nothing to him, but what he did not expect was that beauty did not want to join him even after she knew his identity. That was uneptable to him! He was taken aback when the young master of the Shi family came while he was trying to flirt with her. To think that this beauty was actually his sister!


    The servants beside him who were jeering and watching the fun immediately went quiet. None dared to take a deep breath. What¡¯s more, he was tactfully snubbed by Shi Fengju, which made him really embarrassed. So after Shi Fengju and Shi Lian left, he said in front of the crowd, ¡°Watch carefully, I will make the Shi family obediently deliver their daughter to me!¡±


    And that was why he asked Old Mistress Hong for help. All he said was that he had fallen in love with the Shi family¡¯s third missy at first sight and wanted his mother to help him to marry her as his concubine. Hmph, once she was married to him, he would gain his reputation back. How impressive did she think she was? Just watch how he was going to deal with her then!


    Seeing that his purpose had been achieved and his father was no longer angry at him, how could he still remain at home obediently? He excused himself soon after chatting a while more with Old Mistress Hong and left to go idling about again.


    Old Mistress Hong could not help but sigh, ¡°This child is really like a wild horse without reins. Old Lord was right, he really needs a wife to keep him under control!¡±

 Chapter 203 - Proposal

    <strong>Chapter 203: Proposal</strong>


    The next day, Nanny Ning left the Hong household for the Shi household with two other servants to deliver the message.


    When Wang Shi heard that their city¡¯s magistrate had sent people over, she quickly invited them in without much thought as she assumed that they were here to invite them to Old Mistress Hong¡¯s dinner party.


    To her surprise, Nanny Ning mentioned Shi Lian¡¯s marriage right after a formal greeting, which caught Wang Shi off guard.


    ¡°Well, why did Old Mistress Hong think to do so for no reason?¡± Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help butugh as she asked.


    She actually did not feel anything was wrong when Old Mistress Hong requested for Shi Lian to be married over as a concubine. The Hong family served the imperial court; how could Shi Lian be a legal wife of their legitimate son? It was already in favor of Shi Lian to be able to marry into such a family, even if it were as a concubine.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this just fate?¡± Nanny Ningughed, ¡°Old Mistress Shi, did you bring her and a few other nannies along when you went to Plum Blossom Temple a few days ago? Our Young Master happened to pass by and decided to take a walk up the hills to watch the plum blossom flowers. Ever since heid his eyes on her from afar, he has been thinking about her, and that¡¯s why our old mistress has sent this old servant over to deliver this proposal! There is no need for you to worry, Old Mistress Shi, our old mistress is extremely kind, and our Young Master does not have a legal wife yet. Although your missy will be married into our family as a concubine, she will be granted a higher position and enjoy the same rights as if she were his legitimate wife! We will never treat your missy poorly!¡±


    Nanny Ning spoke with a bright smile on her face. These words had already been rehearsed with Old Mistress Hong and they turned out fluent and pleasant to the ears. She expected Wang Shi to say nothing but yes to their proposal, but to her surprise, Wang Shi¡¯s face stiffened slightly when she heard her.


    ¡°At Plum Blossom Temple...Young Master Hong met our family¡¯s third daughter there?¡± Wang Shi forced a smile on her face as she asked.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Nanny Ningughed, ¡°That¡¯s why I said it was all fate! Hehe, there is this saying that ¡®Though born a thousand miles apart, souls which are fated to meet will meet¡¯!¡±


    Old Mistress Hong and Nanny Ning did not expect Shi Fengju and Sang Wan to keep it aplete secret from Wang Shi, and Wang Shi had no idea at all. They thought that what they had proposed would show that the Hong family was willing to take responsibility for what had happened and Wang Shi would definitely be relieved as well as pleased with them. But who knew that they had instead surprised Wang Shi instead!


    Wang Shi was both surprised and furious, and thought to herself: that foolish girl was really not a good one, all she has done was bring trouble to this family! She didn¡¯t seem to wander a lot when she¡¯s at home, so why had she gone astray once she went out? What was she doing in the plum blossom forest? What¡¯s more, she ended up attracting the Young Master of the Hong family here. Even though he only looked at her from afar, if word were spread to the public, who knew what the rumors would be? The public might even think that they were having an affair!


    That would be an embarrassment to their Shi family!


    Wang Shi had the urge to call Shi Lian over right this instant to ask her about it and teach her a proper lesson; how could she still be interested in the marriage proposal? So sheughed and excused herself, ¡°For this, I¡¯ll have to thank Old Mistress Hong for the effort! Who knows whether our third missy deserves such good fortune? How about this, I will reply to your old mistress in a few days.¡±


    ¡°Marriage is a big thing so it definitely has to be considered carefully!¡± Although disappointed, Nanny Ning still forced a smile and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t this old servante back to receive the reply from you three dayster? Old Mistress Shi, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Good! Then we¡¯ll discuss this again!¡± Wang Shi nodded and smiled before she had the servants see Nanny Ning off.


    Right after sending Nanny Ning away, Wang Shi¡¯s face turned dark and she sent servants to call Shi Lian over.


    Shi Lian had received a fright in the plum blossom forest, and the more she thought about it, the more it became a trauma for her. She was feeling as ufortable and frightened as a bird on a wire, and the moment she heard that her stepmother was looking for her, her face immediately turned pale!


    ¡°I¡¯ll go over right after getting changed. Sister Xiu Chun, you can report back to Mother first!¡± Shi Lian quickly forced a smile and said.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be taking my leave first. Third Missy, please make haste!¡± Xiu Chun smiled and left.


    Shi Lian held Cai Yun¡¯s hands tightly and instructed her, ¡°Quickly send someone reliable to inform Sister Sang Wan that Mother has called for me. You have to hurry!¡±


    Cai Yun was anxious as well, and hurriedly nodded once Shi Lian had instructed her, ¡°I understand, Missy you can get changed first, this servant will send someone to inform Young Mistress now! She would definitely not leave you be!¡±


    The pair of master and servant, finished their preparations in a hurry andposed themselves before calmly walking towards Wang Shi¡¯s ce.


    Wang Shi was waiting for her in the warm room; Xiu Chun directly led Shi Lian in when she arrived before leaving to stand outside the door. There was only Nanny Jiang left inside to serve Wang Shi.


    ¡°Kneel! You shameless fool!¡± Wang Shi clenched her teeth and scolded her sternly.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Lian kneeled in front of Wang Shi. Her feet were suddenly too weak to stand, and she said with tears in her eyes, ¡°This daughter is ignorant and must not have been filial to anger Mother. Mother, please tell me what I¡¯ve done wrong!¡±


    ¡°You dare to ask me?¡± Wang Shi sneered and said, ¡°Keep putting on an act, I will watch you keep up your act! You shameless fool! What on earth happened that day in the plum blossom forest at the back of Plum Blossom Temple?¡±


    Shi Lian almost fainted when she heard Wang Shi asking her about it. How could she dare say anything before Sang Wan arrived? Moreover, that was not something a missy could say.


    Shi Lian¡¯s eyes were immediately full of tears, and all she could do was lower her head and cry without saying a word.


    ¡°What are you crying for? What a disappointment you are. Tell me right now, who did you meet with in the plum blossom forest on that day?¡± Wang Shi said angrily.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know who that was!¡± Shi Lian cried, ¡°I really have no idea who that was!¡±


    Shi Lian cried bitterly to herself, merely hoping for Sang Wan to save her. Would Wang Shi simply believe her? No matter how Wang Shi interrogated her, she kept her mouth shut and was not willing to spill a word. Seeing that she could not get anything out of Shi Lian, Wang Shi thought that Young Master Hong must have only happened to see her from afar while she remained oblivious to it! At the thought, her expression rxed a little, but she continued to scold Shi Lian quite a bit before forbidding her from wandering about in the future. Shi Lian hurriedly epted it, almost as if she had received a pardon from Wang Shi.


    Seeing her still kneeling on the floor, Wang Shi looked at her and said, ¡°What are you still doing here? Get out now! Copy ¡®Lessons for Women¡¯ and ¡®Principles for Women¡¯ thirty times each and send them to me in three days, now go!¡±


    That was it? Shi Lian was surprised, but hurriedly epted right after she collected herself before slowly taking her leave.


    Sang Wan left for something else just when Cai Yun sent a servant to Ning Garden1. When she heard about it the moment she got back, she had a feeling that it would be a disaster and hurried to Wang Shi¡¯s ce. She ran into Shi Lian and Cai Yun who were on their way back to Fu Qu Lodge.


    ¡°Third Sister!¡± Sang Wan called out to her and went up to them. She held Shi Lian¡¯s hands and looked at her thoroughly, ¡°How did it go? Are you alright?¡±


    Shi Lian¡¯s eyes reddened. She shook her head and said, ¡°Thank you, Sister Sang Wan, I¡¯m alright now!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great, that¡¯s great then!¡± Sang Wan was finally at ease too, but she could not help but wonder why her mother-inw would let Shi Lian go so easily as well.


    Shi Lian seemed to have read her mind and said softly, ¡°I don¡¯t know why either. I kept my mouth shut but Mother only scolded me for a bit before letting me go and copy a few books.¡± As she said, sheughed as well, ¡°That can be considered the best that I could ask for; at least it was better than what I expected!¡±


    The truth would eventuallye to light. Shi Lian knew that even though both her brother and sister-inw had been covering it up for her, her stepmother would know about it sooner orter. The sooner she knew, the sooner she would get taught a lesson, and the sooner she would be relieved from it!


    Sang Wan smiled and patted Shi Lian¡¯s hand lightly, ¡°Just forget about it! Don¡¯t take it to heart and have a good rest when you get back!¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Shi Lian smiled gratefully before the sisters-inw said goodbye to each other.


    Since Sang Wan was already on her way, she could not just leave halfway even though Shi Lian was now alright. As such, she still went to visit Wang Shi at her ce.


    When Wang Shi saw her, she couldn¡¯t help but me her for not keeping an eye on Shi Lian. Sang Wan knew that all she could get from Wang Shi were just criticisms, so she stood by the side and listened conscientiously, not daring to make a noise.


    Wang Shi was only venting her anger, and once she was done, she let out a sigh, ¡°You are here right on time, I have something to ask you right now! Sit down and listen to me slowly!¡±


    ¡°Yes Mother. If Mother has anything for me, please tell me!¡± Sang Wan forced a smile and sat down carefully.


    Wang Shi then told her about the servants from the Hong family, and then added, ¡°What¡¯s your take on this marriage? Nanny Ning said that she would be back in three days for our reply!¡±


    Sang Wan was perplexed. How could Nanny Ning and Liu Ya¡¯s story bepletely different? Since Shi Lian said nothing in front of Mother, it was no wonder that her stepmother only scolded her slightly! If she ever knew the truth, she would never let her go so easily! Wang Shi must have thought that Young Master Hong only looked at Shi Lian from afar and Shi Lian did not know about his existence!


    ¡°What are you in a daze for?¡± Wang Shi humphed with discontent when she saw her lost in thought.


    Sang Wan collected herself and hurriedly forced a smile, ¡°Mother would more or less have to handle Third Sister¡¯s marriage. About that, Sang Wan is in no position toment!¡±


    Wang Shi said, ¡°No worries, just tell me what you think about it!¡±


    Sang Wan thought for a while before answering, ¡°Mother, then Sang Wan be upfront, but please don¡¯t take it too seriously if I mention anything wrong!¡±


    Wang Shi smiled and said, ¡°Why would I? Why would I me you for answering my questions? Now tell me!¡±


    Sang Wan then said, ¡°Third Sister¡¯s biological mother passed away, and Father-inw is no longer around as well, which means that Mother is now fully in charge of Third Sister¡¯s marriage. The public would more or less make thoughtlessments if you did not arrange a marriage that was good enough for her. Some might even judge you as a mother so wouldn¡¯t you be wronged by that? After all, you have never treated Third Sister unfairly!¡±


    ¡°You are absolutely right! I think so too!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s words echoed Wang Shi¡¯s thoughts. She had never abused or treated Shi Lian harshly, and no one in the household had ever made a noise about how she had not been ying her role as a mother. If she failed to arrange a good marriage for Shi Lian, then all the good that she had done for her would be meaningless. Many years had gone by, there was no way she¡¯d let a marriage ruin her!


    ¡°Speaking of which, it¡¯s about time to think about her marriage! How muddle-headed I must be to have forgotten about it!¡± Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but sigh, but she did not look bothered. The marriage of a concubine¡¯s daughter was not a pressing issue. Selecting a fine man as her husband was all it required!


    ¡°Third Sister has just turned sixteen this year, just the right age to arrange a marriage for her, and it isn¡¯t toote yet, so how could Mother say that!¡± Sang Wanughed again, ¡°However, I¡¯m somewhat concerned that even though the Hong family works in the imperial court, which makes their position slightly higher than ours, Third Sister is going to get married as a concubine. How could a concubine bepared to a wife? I¡¯m afraid that...¡±


    Wang Shi then answered, ¡°Nanny Ning has already affirmed to us that when our third missy marries into their family, she would be a level above!¡±


    Sang Wan said, ¡°Mother, although a level above, she¡¯ll still be a concubine! When Young Master Hong marries a wife, wouldn¡¯t she have to serve her like a servant? It would bring shame to our Shi family if people knew that the concubine was a missy of ours! It isn¡¯t difficult for us to find a better husband for her, is it?¡±

 Chapter 204 - Refusal

    <strong>Chapter 204: Refusal</strong>


    Hearing so, Wang Shi hesitated for a while before she spoke again, ¡°You are right! There is no reason for a missy from our Shi Family to be a concubine in another family! Her mother is no longer around; the people out there with malicious intent will think that I am ill-treating her and spread rumors about it! However, with the Hong family so polite with their proposal, would it be rude for us to refuse them?¡±


    Sang Wan answered, ¡°Marriage should only be discussed when there is a mutual consent between both families, so it will not be a problem for us even if we refuse them. Furthermore, their proposal is for Shi Lian to be their son¡¯s concubine, not as hiswfully wedded wife! Old Mistress Hong will definitely be able to understand where we areing from if we refuse them.¡±


    Wang Shi nodded slowly, but she remained silent.


    Sang Wan did not dare to speak any further, and forced a smile, ¡°This is only your daughter-inw¡¯s small insight. Mother, please do not take it to heart if I have said anything wrong. Why don¡¯t we wait for Lord to be back to discuss and make a decision together?¡±


    Wang Shi was pleased with her words. Seeing that Sang Wan knew to take Shi Fengju¡¯s opinion into consideration, Wang Shi smiled, ¡°You have a point there. A matter of such gravity should be discussed with Fengju since he is the most familiar with the world outside!¡±


    ¡°Mother is right!¡± Sang Wanughed and bade farewell after exchanging a few more words.


    Sang Wan exhaled deeply when she stepped out of the courtyard, feeling slightly downcast. Wang Shi did not seem to be against the marriage with the Hong family, and it was not an insult to Shi Lian, who was a concubine¡¯s daughter, to marry an official¡¯s legitimate son.


    However, the son was an insolent who failed in his attempt to take advantage of her. With this problem present, would Mister Hong still treat her well when she gets married to him? And because it was Shi Lian, her life ahead would definitely be miserable!


    Sang Wan had first-hand experience with an unfortunate marriage. Deep down, she understood what it was like for a maiden to be married to the wrong man. As such, she did not think twice when it came to rejecting the marriage in front of her mother-inw on Shi Lian¡¯s behalf. However...


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart sank a little. A thought suddenly came to her; she did not actually ask Shi Lian for her opinion on the marriage. What if Shi Lian was actually willing to marry into the Hong family, which was reputable and influential?


    Sang Wan hesitated for a while before making a turn to Fu Qu Lodge with the servants.


    Shi Lian¡¯s heart was slightly settled. When she heard the news of her sister-inw making her way to her residence after a visit to Wang Shi¡¯s ce, she hurriedly went out to wee Sang Wan.


    The two went into the house, and Sang Wan gestured for the servants on duty to leave before she told Shi Lian about the Hong family asking for her hand in marriage.


    Before she could finish, Shi Lian¡¯s face turned pale and she fell onto her knees as she clutched onto Sang Wan¡¯s sleeve like it was herst option, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I do not wish to marry him! Please help me, Sister Sang Wan! I would rather marry into amoner¡¯s household or be a nun for the rest of my life than to marry that lecherous man! Please, Sister Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°Hurry and get up quickly!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s heart ached when she saw Shi Lian fall into despair. She leaned over to help Shi Lian up, and repeated the conversation she had with Wang Shi before sighing, ¡°You and I have always gotten along very well, and I do understand a thing or two about your personality. Initially, I thought that with his insolent attitude, it is highly possible for him to ask for your hand in marriage because he harbors ill-intention, which was why I persuaded Mother against the idea without asking you for your opinion. Who knew that you¡¯d think the same way as well. However, you have to understand that the final decision lies in Mother¡¯s hand, should her mind be made up, even I would not be able to change her decision.¡±


    Shi Lian¡¯s tears continued to fall as she pleaded Sang Wan for help.


    Of course Shi Lian understood. Sang Wan was the only person in the household who would willingly speak up for her, but when it came to her marriage, Sang Wan had no say in the decision made.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan has always treated me well, and I am very thankful to know that you are keen on helping me out. No matter the final oue, I will never me you and will only be grateful towards you! But please, Sister Sang Wan, please try and help me again! There is nothing I can do to make it up to you, but I will use the rest of my life to pray for your happiness and that you and Big Brother will remain as a devoted couple until both your hair turns grey as you enjoy a long and blissful life together!¡±


    ¡°Sillyss, don¡¯t be so formal!¡± Sang Wan raised her handkerchief and wiped Shi Lian¡¯s tears away before she forced a smile, ¡°the marriage has not been confirmed yet, so don¡¯t be hasty! Don¡¯t we still have your big brother? Mother always takes his words into consideration!¡±


    Shi Lian¡¯s face brightened as she held onto Sang Wan¡¯s hand thankfully, ¡°Thank you, Sister Sang Wan!¡±


    In order to ask her big brother for help to persuade her mother, she could only request Sang Wan to do so as it would be inappropriate if she did so directly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Sang Wan patted her hand andforted, ¡°The reason why I¡¯m telling you about this is because I want to know how you feel about the marriage and to get you mentally prepared. Third Sister, do not act recklessly and turn the situation worse, alright? Pretend you are clueless and let your big brother handle the rest!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Shi Lian nodded.


    Sang Wan offered a few more words offort before she took her leave.


    As this was a matter that would affect Shi Lian¡¯s entire life ahead, it was nearly impossible for her to stay calm and she cried silently after Sang Wan left. Cai Yun, whoter knew about the situation, was dumbfounded and apanied her missy solemnly.


    ¡°Missy,¡± All of a sudden, the thought about Sang Yufei popped up in Cai Yun¡¯s mind, and she lowered her voice, ¡°Why don¡¯t you be honest with Young Mistress about your rtionship with her family¡¯s Second Young Master? She might even use all her means to prevent the marriage!¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± Shi Lian panicked to the point where she forgot to cry. Displeased with Cai Yun, she exined sternly, ¡°Such a thing must not be said. Don¡¯t you act rashly! Sister Sang Wan has always treated me well and often offers her help if it is within her ability. Telling her about our rtionship might cause the situation to turn from bad to worse instead!¡±


    ¡°Missy...¡± Cai Yun could not understand.


    Shi Lian let out a deep sigh before smiling bitterly, ¡°Second Young Master Sang has a very reputable identity, while I am just a humble daughter of a lowly concubine. If Sister Sang Wan knew of our rtionship... would she still help us?¡±


    Cai Yun¡¯s expression changed, and she blurted out, ¡°Then what if Second Young Master Sang has a change of heart...¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t!¡± Shi Lian shook her head. ¡°His feelings for me will not change! And even if he does, I can only me myself for having misjudged him!¡±


    Feeling dejected, Cai Yun lowered her head and went silent.


    In the evening, Shi Fengju returned home from work. Sang Wan weed him back with a smile as she helped him untie his cloak and remove his coat. She took the silk robe that he usually wore at home from a servant, helped him wash his hands and face, and poured him a cup of tea to drink after they went into the warm room.


    Throughout, Shi Fengju smiled and spoke with her about the various happenings within the household while enjoying her soft voice. This was the time he enjoyed most after his work. He would feel the warmth of being home with a wife who was understanding and caring.


    ¡°Did you miss me, mhm?¡± Shi Fengju signaled to the servant to leave before he pulled his wife into his embrace to enjoy their alone time.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired of asking the same question everyday?¡± Sang Wan teased him with a slight push.


    Shi Fengju smiled. He held her slender and fair fingers in his hand and pulled them closer to his lips for a kiss. ¡°Why would I? I love to hear you say ¡®I miss you¡¯ to me! Sang Wan, you should know how much I think of you at every moment!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red-hot and she pouted at him shyly. She pulled her hand free and took a step forward before turning to give him a smile, ¡°Are you tired? I¡¯ll give you a little massage before we go for our dinner!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded and rested against a chair behind him. Sang Wan went to his back and massaged his shoulders and neck. Shi Fengju exhaledfortably as he closed his eyes to further rx himself.


    After a short while, Liu Ya shouted from behind the screen to ask whether dinner should be served. Sang Wan answered her before nudging Shi Fengju up. He stretched his shoulders with a little twist and turn, then hugged Sang Wan, ¡°My wife is the best, I feel sofortable and rxed now! Let¡¯s turn in early tonight, shall we?¡± He approached her and ended his words in a seductive tone.


    Heat once again crawled up Sang Wan¡¯s face and she chided him gently, ¡°Has Lord gone through the ount books yet? There should be a lot to handle with the newly opened store!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed, ¡°there are the shopkeepers, it¡¯s not like I have to do everything myself. Right now, I just want to spend quality time with my lovely wife!¡±


    Sang Wan did not respond, and instead pulled him out to have dinner. Shi Fengju curled his lips upwards, his eyes only filled with her.


    After dinner, they stood at the hallway to appreciate the flowers and encourage better digestion. In a short while, Shi Fengju urged the servants to prepare a hot water bath.


    The sky had turned dark when they were finally done bathing and drying their hair. Shi Fengju grumbled about being weary from work as he dragged his wife along with him into their chamber. Once the doors were closed, he pulled her closer towards him and they started getting intimate.


    Sang Wan drowned herself in his kisses, and her half-inviting actions turned Shi Fengju on even more.


    ¡°Sang Wan, are you tired?¡± After some cleaning up and wiping, Shi Fengjuid down beside his wife and pulled her into his embrace. Pecking her face, brows, and nose, he felt an indescribable tenderness for her.


    Sang Wan¡¯s mind was on Shi Lian¡¯s marriage. She wanted to bring up the matter to Shi Fengju tonight, but who knew they would end up having an intimate moment with each other. She did not want to throw a wet nket over such an asion. However, who knew what the situation would turn into the next day? It may already be toote for any changes to be made if her mother-inw had her mind made up.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Sang Wan was lost in thoughts when she felt a sudden sting on her fingertips. She looked down to witness her husband, who was the culprit, smiling innocently at her.


    Annoyed by him, Sang Wan pulled her hand away and chided, ¡°Are you a dog? Why are you nibbling at my fingers?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed deeply as he ced a kiss on Sang Wan¡¯smenting lips, ¡°That¡¯s because you were so lost in thought!¡±

 Chapter 205 - Urging On

    <strong>Chapter 205: Urging On</strong>


    ¡°Don¡¯t tease me! Stop!¡± Sang Wang could not handle him messing around and clumsily tried to block him whileining, ¡°My body is still aching from just now and doesn¡¯t have the strength, yet here you are teasing me!¡±


    Shi Fengju pinched her on the waist lightly before pulling her into a tight embrace, ¡°Who asked you to get distracted when you¡¯re by my side?¡±


    ¡°Since when was I!¡± Sang Wan flinched.


    Shi Fengju lowered his gaze to her and smiled, ¡°Silly Sang Wan, as someone who shares the same bed as me, do you think it¡¯ll be possible for you to hide anything from me? Tell me, is there something on your mind? Mm?¡±


    Since he had asked, Sang Wan¡¯s eyes darkened and she let out a soft sigh before replying, ¡°There is, but please don¡¯t get mad after hearing me out.¡±


    From her expression, Shi Fengju could tell that she was being serious, and he immediately stopped messing around. Thinking that Sang Wan must be feeling wronged by others, he gently tried to coax her. Sang Wan could not help but have mixed feelings.


    But after hearing what happened today from Sang Wan, Shi Fengju¡¯s expression immediately darkened.


    ¡°That rascal from the Hong family is really shameless! How dare he ask Third Sister to be his concubine!¡±


    ¡°Keep your volume down!¡± Sang Wan tugged at him lightly before she sighed, ¡°Who knows what they have in mind! Regardless, they have already sent people here to deliver the proposal, and Mother seems to be considering it, what do you...¡±


    ¡°Definitely not!¡± Shi Fengju replied coldly, ¡°Although Hong Xi and his father had settled here for only about half a year, he¡¯s famous for being a good-for-nothing who spends his time gambling and visiting brothels. I will never allow Third Sister to marry a person like him, it will only ruin her entire life! Truly, Mother must not have thought it through!¡±


    ¡°Mother does not know much about what is happening outside. That is why the Hong family is able to boast erroneously in front of her. You have to persuade her otherwise tomorrow!¡± Seeing that Shi Fengju waspletely against the marriage proposal, Sang Wan felt as if a huge weight had been lifted.


    ¡°That is a must of course. Our family has not fallen to a point where we need to use a missy to exchange for benefits, and Third Sister is my younger sister, there¡¯s no way I could bear to watch her jump into the pits of hell! What¡¯s more, Third Sister had already rejected Hong Xi in the plum blossom forest, should she marry into his family, she would definitely not be able to lead a peaceful life! I will definitely not allow it to happen.¡±


    Sang Wan answered delightfully, ¡°With your words, I can finally be at ease! I went to visit Third Sister today. Seeing her cry so sorrowfully, my heart felt miserable too!¡±


    Shi Fengju took another nce at her and smiled, ¡°Third Sister is closer to you than anyone else, but I didn¡¯t know you two were close to this extent! You must be very concerned about her well-being, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Sang Wan nced at him and replied, ¡°how would you men understand the difficulty that us women face? Indeed, we are close with each other, but I am also showing concern out of empathy. Women have no control over their own marriage. Marrying an understanding husband will be a wife¡¯s blessing, but if she were married to a bad one, there is nothing she can do but to bear with it. I can¡¯t bear to watch a fine woman like her fall into the hands of such a man and endure endless suffering in the future! ¡±


    Shi Fengju went silent, before he spoke mock himself, ¡°Are you still upset about the past and ming me for not treating you well?¡±


    Regretting her words, Sang Wan shook her head and smiled, ¡°I am not ming you, I was just speaking my mind! And you didn¡¯t treat me badly then...¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Before she could finish her words, Shi Fengju gave her a tight hug, and caressed her face as he apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    Dumbfounded, Sang Wan simply looked at him dazedly.


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°You are innocent, I shouldn¡¯t have med you for something you didn¡¯t do. Don¡¯t be angry anymore, alright?¡±


    Tears filled Sang Wan¡¯s eyes. She avoided his gaze and buried her head in his chest, ¡°Please, don¡¯t say that, Lord. We are getting along well now, aren¡¯t we? I am not angry at all, I promise.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Really!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled as he tilted her chin towards him and said, ¡°I will believe you if you give me a kiss!¡±


    Geez...This person was so cheeky!


    With his zing gaze staring right at her, she had no choice but to lean forward and give him a peck on his cheek.


    Shi Fengjuughed as his eyes glistened brightly, ¡°That isn¡¯t counted, you have to kiss me here for it to count!¡± He pointed to his lips.


    ¡°Who said so? You didn¡¯t mention it beforehand!¡± Sang Wan chuckled and turned her head away, refusing to give in.


    Shi Fengju turned her head back and kissed her deeply while embracing her warm body tightly. Only until they were out of breath did Shi Fengju let go of her, ¡°Remember this, Sang Wan, only this can count as a kiss!¡±


    That kiss left Sang Wan breathless. As she panted lightly from her red-colored lips, she gazed at Shi Fengju with her moist eyes, unable to respond.


    Shi Feng watched the woman by him. Her skin was flushed pink, her eyes captivating, her red lips inviting, and her silky hair scattered on the pillow and a few strands resting on her neck and shoulders. How could he hold himself back against such finery? He called out her name with his deep voice as his lips slowly returned to where itst was. He then spread her legs apart and pushed himself in once more. Together, they moaned as they embraced and let their lust kick in.


    The next day, Wang Shi brought up the marriage proposal to Shi Fengju without him asking when he arrived to greet her in the morning. Shi Fengju was obviously against the proposal and he quickly convinced his mother with a few words. Knowing that even her son was against the idea, Wang Shi began to give up on the intention.


    Shi Fengju then took his leave as he left to attend to his business.


    While Shi Fengju and Wang Shi were having their conversation, Shi Yumei happened to overhear them at the door when on her way to greet her mother, and she hurriedly asked her mother about the details of the conversation the moment her brother left.


    Why would Wang Shi hide anything from her own daughter? Wang Shi then spilled everything to her.


    Shi Yumei became excited after hearing her mother¡¯s words, and she hurriedly asked, ¡°Mother, why didn¡¯t you agree to such a good marriage immediately!¡±


    Of course Shi Yumei knew that the marriage was nowhere near the expectation of a ¡®good marriage¡¯, but she was never fond of Shi Lian and her mother ever since she was young. She always felt that the both of them had snatched her father away, and before her father passed away, he was alwaysplimenting Shi Lian for being a sensible child. On the other hand, he had never showered her withpliments, instead reprimanding her for being arrogant, overbearing, violent, unreasonable, and udylike. She would of course be more than happy to see Shi Lian struck with misfortune!


    In addition to her own disappointing marriage, she was even more keen to make sure Shi Lian did not marry into a good family, better still if into a family worse than hers.


    With Shi Lian¡¯s quiet and timid personality, she would definitely be tormented to death if she were married off as a concubine!


    ¡°What¡¯s good about it!¡± Wang Shi waved the thought off. ¡°Our family¡¯s missy has no need to be a concubine of another family! People will assume that I am ill-treating a concubine¡¯s daughter. I cannot afford to ruin my reputation because of this!¡±


    ¡°How is this ill-treating!¡± Shi Yumei rebutted, ¡°The man is the legitimate son of our city¡¯s official, a reputable family! Let¡¯s not speak about thosemoners, it is no insult for even legitimate daughters from well-to-do families to be married into such a family as a concubine! From what I know, this marriage is good for her! Furthermore, they are our city¡¯s official while our Shi family are merchants here. The advantages we will receive out of this marriage are boundless! Furthermore, this will help Fengju in his business and he wouldn¡¯t have to be so tired anymore!¡±


    Upon hearing her daughter¡¯s words, Wang Shi began to waver again. Her daughter¡¯s words made sense. With a marriage to connect the two families, the city¡¯s official would have to look after the Shi family as well. Then the chances of the Zhuang family overtaking them in business would be slimmer!


    ¡°But, both Fengju and Sang Wan are against this marriage. I think...¡±


    ¡°Mother, between Fengju and Sang Wan, who was the first to be against this marriage?¡± Shi Yumei interrupted.


    Wang Shi replied, ¡°Sang Wan got wind of the news first. Fengju only mentioned it when he came here today to greet me in the morning!¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s it!¡± Shi Yumei pped her hands. ¡°Mother, you should know how precious Sang Wan is to Fengju now, she must be the one who persuaded him to be against the marriage! He would obey Sang Wan¡¯s words more than an imperial edict. Whatever Sang Wan said, he would definitely obey!¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Wan Shi frowned, feeling a little jealous, ¡°Since when is Fengju easily swayed? Moreover, what good would Sang Wan gain from swaying him against the marriage? She is the daughter-inw of our family, and the future old mistress of our household. Should there be any good for the family if we were to be inws with the Hong¡¯s family, why would she be opposed?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s still decades too early for her, that is why she is nning ahead now!¡± Shi Yumei was confident of her own words.


    Wang Shi was confused by her words, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Shi Yumei sneered coldly, ¡°Mother, you mustn¡¯t forget that Sang Wan¡¯s second brother is heading to Beijing for his next examination. If he passes, he will be an official regardless of his rank! Think about it, if her brother bes an official, her position in our house will be more secure! But if we be inws with the city¡¯s official, should anything happen in the future, we will have the inws to depend on instead of the Sang family! If that happens, her standing in our family will not be as important. As such, being as clever as she is, she will not want that to happen! That is why she is trying to ruin the marriage so that we can only depend on her Sang family should anything happen! That is her scheme!¡±


    Wang Shi was stunned by her words and did not know how to reply.


    If Sang Wan was here, she would be in awe at her speech.


    She was able to make such a far-fetched reason believable, that in itself deserved ¡®admiration¡¯.


    ¡°Does, does she really have such a profound scheme?¡± Perturbed by her words, Wang Shi¡¯s heart was a mess. Her daughter¡¯s words were a shock to her. Wang Shi had never really schemed in her life, and hearing those words sent chills down her spine, almost as if it was just made known to her that she had been keeping a ferocious monster as a pet.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t Mother alwayspliment her on her cleverness?¡± Shi Yumeiughed coldly. ¡°Unlike us, she had read books before so it is clear that her way of thinking would be different from us! In my opinion, I think that this marriage is very appropriate for both Third Sister and our family! You should seize the chance since it is now or never. Mother, you should hurry and decide!¡±

 Chapter 206 - Promise

    <strong>Chapter 206: Promise</strong>


    ¡°Let me... let me think about it again!¡± Wang Shi could feel her head aching. A momentter she asked again, ¡°Tell me again? Did Fengju only do so because Sang Wan asked him to?¡±


    ¡°Definitely!¡± Shi Yumei said, ¡°I was just at the door when I heard you and Fengju. Fengju did not show any signs of being surprised or shocked when you mentioned it to him so that must be because Sang Wan had already told him! Think about it, did he consider carefully before answering, or did he respond straight away?¡±


    Wang Shi thought for a moment but she could not figure out whether it was true. In one moment, she thought that her son spoke without much thought, but she thought otherwise in the next moment. But because of Shi Yumei¡¯s words, her mind was led to believe that the former was true, and the more she thought about it, the more she believed so.


    ¡°Since I¡¯ll be the one making the decision for this marriage, then it¡¯s settled!¡± Wang Shi raised her brows and said firmly.


    ¡°That is very wise of you, Mother!¡± Shi Yumei pped andughed as she said, ¡°From now on, we¡¯ll be inws with the city¡¯s magistrate. No one would ever dare to look down on us! If we rejected the marriage, the city magistrate would be displeased with us and me us for not appreciating his favor. Worst, if the Yang family or Zhuang family knew about it, they would surely send their missies over; it would be such a pity for us if we missed this chance!¡±


    ¡°Right, right! You are right!¡± Wang Shi was immediately taken aback and felt fortunate. Instead of waiting for the arranged three days, Wang Shi instructed Nanny Jiang to head over to the Hong household to settle the proposal.


    Nanny Jiang did not find it appropriate. Although Shi Lian was going to get married as a concubine, the Shi family was one of the influential families; for the family from the side of the female to initiate right after was not very appropriate. Moreover, they only had to wait for two more days, wouldn¡¯t it go by in a blink of an eye?


    As such, Nanny Jiang tried to persuade her.


    However, Shi Yumei said, ¡°Nanny, this is a joyous thing, it would be better if this is settled quickly! Only then can our sincerity be shown! Their family works for the imperial court, there is nothing wrong with us to take the initiative! We can¡¯t wait for them to prompt us, can we? What¡¯s more, we aren¡¯t marrying Sister Shi Lian as a wife either, and there aren¡¯t any customs against it, so others would definitely not judge us!¡±


    ¡°Yumei is right, quickly go now! Speak properly when you meet them, do not make our family lose face!¡± Wang Shi added.


    Helpless, there was nothing Nanny Jiang could do other than to agree. After leaving, she went to get prepared.


    Old Mistress Hong received Nanny Jiang personally, and immediately sent a servant to fetch the calendar after hearing from Nanny Jiang. 16th February was a good day suitable for marriage, so the date was decided on and Nanny Jiang went back to report to Wang Shi.


    Old Mistress Hong sent a servant to call Magistrate Hong over right after the selection of the date and proudly told him about it, ¡°See, was I wrong? Such a good offer is difficult to find. The Shi family aren¡¯t fools, did you think they would watch this chance slip away? See how anxious they were to send someone to settle it!¡±


    Magistrate Hong was surprised too, but he was happy with the results, so heughed and praised his wife. Then he said heatedly, ¡°Keep your eyes tight on that little jerk from tomorrow onwards, don¡¯t ever let him wander about again! The Shi family is the wealthiest family in Qingzhou, we should give them respect. If he ever creates trouble that would make us lose face, I will never let him off!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Old Lord! But there¡¯s no way our son doesn¡¯t know where to draw the line!¡± Old Mistress Hong was unhappy and the joy that she was experiencing immediately halved.


    After Nanny Jiang reported to Wang Shi about the date. Wang Shi did not seem to care much about it as Shi Lian was going to be married as a concubine. There was not much to prepare and they had plenty of time, so she nodded and sent Nanny Jiang to the Hong family to seal the deal.


    Afterwards, Wang Shi sent servants to call Sang Wan and Shi Lian over.


    Of course all the preparations had to be arranged by Sang Wan, and Shi Lian had to know as well since she was involved and could be prepared earlier. There would not be enough time for her to make her own wedding dress, so she could only add a little to the finishing touches after the seamstress were done.


    Both Sang Wan and Shi Lian¡¯s expressions changed when they heard the news from Wang Shi. It had not been a long while since Sang Wan sent someone to inform Shi Lian not to worry as Shi Fengju had already convinced Wang Shi. But everything took a change for the worst in just half a day!


    Sang Wan could not believe what she heard. Embarrassed by the sudden change of Wang Shi¡¯s decision, she couldn¡¯t help but nce at Shi Lian.


    Shi Lian looked towards her direction as well, her face pale and her body as cold as ice!


    ¡°This day wille for all girls, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Alright, Shi Lian, go back and get yourself ready for your wedding. During this period, you don¡¯t have to greet me early in the morning! List down whatever you need and tell your sister-inw!¡± As for whether to provide or not, it would be up to her, the mother, to make the decision. As long as what she wanted was not uneptable, Wang Shi would not refuse.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Lian suddenly kneeled and kowtowed to Wang Shi. When she raised her head up, her eyes were filled with tears. Her mouth was open and she was about to say something.


    Seeing that things could be worse, Sang Wan hurriedly interrupted before Shi Lian could speak, ¡°Third Sister, quickly go back after thanking Mother for her favor! Stop crying! There¡¯s no need to cry over a happy asion!¡± As she spoke, she secretly signalled to Shi Lian with her eyes.


    Whatever Shi Lian wanted to say, that was stopped by Sang Wan, was nothing more than an impulsion. After collecting herself back together, cold sweat formed on her back when she reflected on herself.


    Of course she knew about her stepmother¡¯s temper; even if she was her real daughter, there was no way she could be against a marriage decided by her mother, not to mention she was not. If it wasn¡¯t for Sang Wan who stopped her just now, she could not imagine what would happen when she outright refused!


    ¡°Yes!¡± Shi Lian kowtowed again, with tears in her eyes before she got up to leave.


    Wang Shi¡¯s previously confused expression rxed and she frowned, ¡°Look at her! Who knows what she¡¯s trying to do?¡± She then turned to tell Sang Wan to get started on the preparation. Her requirement was simple, and it was for the Shi family to not to be a disgrace and to make sure that all necessary preparations were settled well.


    Sang Wan forced a smile and epted before she smiled, ¡°This daughter-inw will go and draft out a proposal together with Nanny Li and the rest. I wille back and report to Mother about it tomorrow morning!¡±


    ¡°Go then!¡± Wang Shi nodded and said.


    Sang Wan then went to Shi Lian¡¯s ce while on her way back. Shi Lian was lying on her bed and crying silently while Cai Yun stood beside her with tears in her eyes. Cai Yun was surprised to see Sang Wan, but just when she was about to say something, Sang Wan waved at her and pointed to the outside, hinting at her to leave. Cai Yun left quietly after a quick nce at her own Missy.


    ¡°Third Sister,¡± Sang Wan patted Shi Lian¡¯s back gently and said, ¡°Stop crying, I¡¯m afraid another storm wille if Mother knows about this!¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan!¡± Shi Lian¡¯s trembling shoulders suddenly stiffened. She got up and wiped her tears before saying, ¡°I am not afraid of telling Sister Sang Wan the truth! What else is there for me to lose at this point of time? So what if she knows? What can she do to me?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you say such angry words!¡± Sang Wan held her hands and sighed lightly, ¡°This is really strange, your brother did send a servant to inform me that Mother had agreed to refuse this marriage. How could they have the date settled in a blink of an eye? This really is...¡±


    How would the two of them know that it was Shi Yumei who caused it? Shi Lian shook her head and sobbed, ¡°I have no idea why it became like this as well! In any case, I¡¯ll never marry him! I would rather die than suffer from this marriage!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you say that!¡± Startled, Sang Wan held her hands even more tightly than before.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan,¡± Shi Lian smiled and said thankfully, ¡°I know that you and Big Brother have tried your best to help me, and I am very grateful to the both of you! Maybe this is my fate, which I would never be able to escape from!¡±


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but to feel sorry for her, and she only spoke again after a while, ¡°You mustn¡¯t be so pessimistic, the situation hasn¡¯t arrived at that stage yet! My good sister, don¡¯t ever do anything silly, understand? I will discuss it with your brother again when hees back at night!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for it!¡± Shi Lian smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Mother even had the date settled with the Hong family, who are the local magistrate. Since the deal has been settled, what can Big Brother do? Sister Sang Wan, I¡¯m already very grateful for your effort! I don¡¯t want you and Big Brother to quarrel because of me! You don¡¯t have to tell Big Brother about this!¡±


    ¡°You are his sister, your brother will never stand to watch you suffer! Third Sister, promise me, it has not gotten to that extent yet. You have to stay strong and you must never do anything silly, do you hear me?¡±


    Sang Wan recalled the night before her wedding with mixed feelings. She felt the same as well, didn¡¯t she? No one would be able to understand that feeling of fear and uneasiness unless they had been through the same situation. What Shi Lian was suffering right now was much worse than her back then as she was about to marry over as a concubine. Especially when her husband-to-be was such a person, and the fact that they had just been through a terrible confrontation just a few days ago!


    ¡°Mm!¡± Shi Lian nodded as her heart was warmed by Sang Wan¡¯s gentle eyes and words that were filled with deep concern for her.


    ¡°That¡¯s the way! Rest well and don¡¯t cry again! It¡¯ll be troublesome if anyone were to see you like this!¡± Sang Wan was inwardly relieved. She persuaded Shi Lian a little more before she got up and left.


    Thinking again about Sang Wan¡¯s words, Shi Lian instructed Cai Yun to bring her some water to wash her face. ¡°Third Sister!¡± Just as she was done, Shi Yumei stepped in happily after calling out to her.


    Shi Lian¡¯s body stiffened. Fortunately, she had washed her face, otherwise, Shi Yumei would definitely create trouble for her in front of her mother if she saw her crying, and she would never be able to live the rest of her days here peacefully.


    All that Shi Yumei said were words of congrattions. The fact that she crowed so much about the marriage made it seem like Shi Lian was actually the one who benefitted the most from it and she should thank Wang Shi for that.


    Although Shi Lian was extremely disgusted, she did not dare to talk back to Shi Yumei, so she forced a smile and a reply.


    What Shi Yumei wanted to see was a bitter look on her face, but she was disappointed when Shi Lian¡¯s expression remained as nd as ever, almost as if she was not concerned at all. Shi Yumei widened her eyes and stared closely at Shi Lian¡¯s face.


    ¡°Big Sister, is there something on my face?¡± Shi Lian leaned backwards to subconsciously avoid her and asked faintly.


    ¡°Of course not!¡± Shi Yumeiughed, ¡°But I do notice that your eyes look slightly swollen, did you cry just now?¡±


    ¡°Listen to that!¡± Shi Lian was frightened, and she hurriedly exined, ¡°I¡¯m perfectly fine, so why would I cry?¡±


    Shi Yumei sneered and said, ¡°Who knows? You might be dissatisfied with your marriage arranged by Mother!¡±


    Shi Lian was extremely frustrated, but she kept the nd smile and said, ¡°It has always been the parents who make the decisions for their children¡¯s marriage. Now that Father is not around, of course Mother would be the one to settle it for me. Why would I not be grateful to Mother for arranging such a good marriage for me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you know!¡± Shi Yumei was feeling a little resentful. She left shortly after as the longer she spent there, the more frustrated she would be.

 Chapter 207 - Stealing

    <strong>Chapter 207: Stealing</strong>


    ¡°I have never seen an older sister like this!¡± Cai Yun could not help but scold behind her back, ¡°I¡¯m sure she can¡¯t wait to have everyone end up in an unhappy marriage like hers! Missy, please don¡¯t be sad. This servant thinks that no matter how terrible the young master may be, he¡¯ll still be better than her husband! Funny how Old Mistress went through so much trouble to choose Eldest Missy¡¯s husband, only to pick a candidate that is an embarrassment to the family!¡±


    Before Cai Yun couldment further, Shi Lian quickly stopped her. With her eyebrows creased, she scolded, ¡°Are you tired of living? How can you say such words? If anyone heard you, your tongue will be pulled from your mouth!¡±


    Cai Yun was momentarily taken aback and she whispered softly, ¡°This servant was only feeling mad for Missy! I was only voicing my thoughts out privately to Missy, where would I have the guts to say it outside?¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard that walls have ears? You¡¯re not allowed to say such things again, do you understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Missy!¡± Cai Yun agreed disheartenedly. Suddenly, her eyes glimmered and she approached Shi Lian to whisper into her ear, ¡°Missy, do you think that this marriage was arranged in the end because Eldest Missy said something to Old Mistress...¡±


    Shi Lian trembled violently and there was a sudden change in her expression.


    Sang Wan had no reasons to lie to her, and such a lie would have been difficult to be kept in the dark for long. If she had done so, wouldn¡¯t she be creating trouble for herself? So it must mean that her mother really wanted to drop the matter. If that was the case, then someone must have influenced her to cause a huge change in her attitude.


    Other than her big brother, there were only two other people who were capable enough to do so in this household. One was her cousin, Gu Fangzi, who was now sick in bed, and the other was her oldest sister...


    Since her eldest sister had stuck her hand into it, then this marriage had no possibility of changing! Shi Lian¡¯s face immediately turned pale and her eyes lost focus. She had lost all hope already!


    When Shi Fengju came back, Sang Wan quickly informed him about it while she was helping him change.


    When Shi Fengju heard about it, he immediately became furious, ¡°What is Mother thinking! How could she agree to this so abruptly. This must not happen, I will go and speak to her!¡±


    ¡°Fengju! Sang Wan quickly held him back and said, ¡°Mother has already agreed to the marriage. You have to think of an idea before going there!¡±


    Shi Fengju became deep in thought after being stopped by her, and asked, ¡°Did someone speak to Mother after I left?¡±


    Sang Wan was startled and shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m not sure!¡± Her eyes glistened as she looked hestitantly at Shi Fengju.


    Shi Fengju was also looking at her, and the instant their eyes met, they reckoned that the culprit must have been none other than Shi Yumei!


    Shi Fengju suddenly felt uneasy and sighed, ¡°If that¡¯s really the case, then Big Sister really...¡± Sang Wan did not know of Shi Yumei¡¯s prejudice against Shi Lian, but Shi Fengju was somewhat clear about it.


    ¡°Fengju, if Big Sister really said anything, then I don¡¯t think Mother will change her mind so easily anymore!¡± Sang Wan let out a sigh.


    She had wanted to ask Shi Fengju to help Shi Lian until the end but felt that she was not in a position to make the request. After all, the one to make the final decision was Wang Shi.


    ¡°I will speak with Mother first. Even though the decision has already been made, it doesn¡¯t mean that it cannot be changed.¡± Shi Fengju patted her hands softly.


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded. The two of them spent some time to talk and have dinner together before Shi Fengju went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce by himself.


    Not long after, Shi Fengju returned unhappily. Sang Wan¡¯s heart sank when she saw him as she could somewhat guessed that he was not able to convince his mother about it.


    Before she could ask, Shi Fengju said angrily, ¡°Mother really did not think things through! To think she¡¯d say that if Third Sister got married into the family, she could assist me and bring up the reputation of our family! What nonsense when the marriage isn¡¯t even a formal one. Even if they want to help me, I won¡¯t dare to ept, not to mention find them for help!¡±


    Shi Fengju did not dare to tell Sang Wan the illogical exnations that his big sister had fed to his mother. If Sang Wan knew about it, there would probably be no way he could lift her spirits up tonight.


    ¡°Then won¡¯t Third Sister have to... Fengju, do you have any other ideas that can help her? If Third Sister really ended up in the Hong Household, then her entire life would be ruined!¡± Sang Wan panicked.


    ¡°Third sister is also my father¡¯s flesh and blood. Since I¡¯ve decided to look into this, there is no reason for me to back out. Did you think your husband is such a person? Alright, don¡¯t think too much now. Didn¡¯t Mother ask you to prepare it? Just do everything as you would, and remind Third Sister to be a little more patient and to not make amotion. If there were anyplications, then there would really be no turning back for her marriage!¡± Shi Fengju advised.


    ¡°Does this mean that you have a solution!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s eyes brightened.


    ¡°For now, no. But don¡¯t worry, there will definitely be one!¡± Shi Fengju said with certainty. He smiled and said, ¡°Do you believe me?¡±


    ¡°Of course I do! Why would I not believe in my Lord¡¯s capability!¡± Sang Wan nodded a few times and embraced him warmly as she said gently, ¡°Lord, you are the best!¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but feel a little sour. She was shy on normal asions when it was just the two of them, and hearing a word ofpliment was just as difficult as touching the sky. But right now, she was behaving so coquettishly when he was only lending help to his own sister!


    Not that he was not enjoying it, but that was what he felt at this moment.


    ¡°Something wrong?¡± Sang Wan was perturbed.


    ¡°No, nothing!¡± Shi Fengju shook his head unhappily, but could not hold himself back and asked, ¡°I¡¯m only helping my third sister, so why are you so happy about it? You seem more concerned about her than me!¡±


    Sang Wan did not know why he sounded so sour, but she sighed, ¡°I just feel that it would be a pity if she was to marry a good-for-nothing like Young Master Hong. Even if we are not rted by blood, I have developed a liking towards her gentle and kind disposition. I don¡¯t want to see her end up with a bad marriage!¡±


    If a woman jumped into that fire pit, then there would be nothing for her to look forward to in her life!


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes shimmered as he knew she was probably thinking about herself again. He grabbed her shoulders and said with a reassuring smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I am as good as my own words!¡±


    The next day when Sang Wan went to see Wang Shi again, she began to get busy preparing Shi Lian¡¯s wedding. Using the excuse to discuss the dowry, Sang Wan took a trip to Shi Lian¡¯s ce to give her some hope.


    Shi Lian was in utter despair at first, but after seeing how Sang Wan did not seem to be joking with her, she picked herself up and maintained herposure to continue passing her days as she usually would.


    Gu Fangzi had assigned Lan Xiang to keep tabs on Sang Wan the entire time. She thought that there would be a huge episode after Wang Shi and the rest returned from Plum Blossom Temple. ording to her n, Sang Wan should be tangled with Young Master Hong, and it would rm Wang Shi. Having lost her face over it, Wang Shi would never forgive her and would at the very least forbid her from leaving the household!


    Who knew that nothing happened and no one made a big fuss out of it after they came back. Gu Fangzi did not trust the information from Lan Xiang at first, but after seeing how certain Lan Xiang seemed, she changed her mind and thought that maybe her aunt was concerned about her reputation and suppressed the issue!


    When Gu Fangzi thought about it, she could not help but feel frustrated: Aunt Wang sure was good at suppressing her emotions!


    However, Wang Shi would surely seek another reason to sentence Sang Wan to a heavy punishment, but there was no news of it at all!


    Only until today, when the entire household came to know that their third missy was going to be the concubine of Magistrate Hong¡¯s son, with the date arranged on the sixteenth of this month, Gu Fangzi thought things through and realized that something must have gone wrong. That Young Master Hong must have bumped into Shi Lian instead of Sang Wan!


    Gu Fangzi immediately lost all interest in the matter and shut herself inside her room to recuperate.


    Shi Lian could marry whoever she wanted to for all she cared, be it as a wife or concubine; she would have not the slightest bit of interest in it at all. There was not even the slightest bit of guilt in her, as in her eyes, Shi Lian¡¯s marriage was not an issue at all!


    When Wang Shi observed no unwillingness from Shi Lian, she thought that Shi Lian must have agreed to the marriage as well and the little guilt in her dissipated almost immediately. The more Wang Shi thought about it, the more she felt that she had found a heavenly good match for her stepdaughter and she waited with a joyous heart to marry her off to the Hong family.


    Who knew that instead of trouble happening at Shi Lian¡¯s side of things, it was Shi Yumei¡¯s side that disrupted the peace in the household again.


    Ren Zhixian did not want to stay in the Shi Household anymore and wanted to move back to Mengxian! This matter was immediately brought up to Wang Shi.


    After heeding Cui Bao¡¯s words, Ren Zhixian and Cui Bao started eyeing every valuable item in Jiao Garden. As long as the items were not toorge and inconvenient to carry, the two would secretly smuggle them out like ants moving to a new nest. Little by little, they brought the items out and stored them in an inn. From items like incense burners, spices, stationery, brush holder, flower vases, writing papers, jade pendants, any gold or silver decorations, exquisite silk table cloths, small pottery, beautiful tes, and many more. None were spared from their thieving hands.


    The first room that became their victim was the study room, followed by the other rooms in Jiao Garden. Soon, they were finally left with Shi Yumei¡¯s room.


    Shi Yumei was oblivious to their actions at first, but sheter came to realize that her favourite decoration, a Buddha hand made from white jade, that she ced in the living hall was also gone. She asked Cui Zhu with a tone of displeasure and concern.


    In fact, who else other than Shi Yumei did not know about the despicable actions of Ren Zhixian and Cui Bao? The servants and nannies were all gossiping among themselves. However, this was a matter between their masters and no servant would dare to intervene. Even when they saw it happening with their own eyes, they would act as if they had not seen anything, and Cui Zhu was no exception.


    Even when Shi Yumei finally initiated the questioning now, Cui Zhu stuttered and remained hesitant on whether she should answer.


    Shi Yumei became more and more suspicious, ¡°Did you keep it for yourself, or did you break it identally? Don¡¯t try to hide it from me. Tell me now!¡±


    Without a choice, Cui Zhu kneeled and said, ¡°Eldest Missy, your husband... he took it away!¡±


    Shi Yumei creased her eyebrows and thought Ren Zhixian took it away for fun. Even though she was unhappy, she did not think much about it. She merely mentioned during dinner that the Jade Buddha Hand was a gift from her mother that she cherished a lot before reminding him not to break it.


    It was only a small reminder, but Ren Zhixian immediately denied, ¡°What Jade Buddha Hand? I¡¯ve never seen it!¡±


    Shi Yumei¡¯s eyes widened and she eximed, ¡°Now this is weird! Cui Zhu told me that you took it away. So stop acting silly? If you didn¡¯t take it, then why don¡¯t I see the Jade Buddha Hand on the long table in front of the window?¡±


    Ren Zhixian mmed the table and said unhappily, ¡°Cui Zhu! Did you see with your own eyes that I took it? Huh? Your things went missing and now you¡¯re asking me, how would I know!¡±


    Cui Zhu was so frightened that her legs almost gave in and her face became pale. She stuttered but was out of words. Shi Yumei knew that Cui Zhu had always been honest and would not lie to her. Seeing how her husband dared to lie so shamelessly in front of her, she was so infuriated that they started to quarrel intensely.


    Shi Yumei angrily stomped into Ren Zhixian¡¯s study room and wanted to search for the Jade Buddha Hand! Who knew that not only did she not see the Jade Buddha Hand, but she found the study room somewhat strange. After surveying the room a few times, she finally eximed, ¡°Why are so many things gone! Where is the pair of bronze cow paperweight, that phoenix jade te, exquisite flower vases, jade talisman, white jade lotus sculpture, coral-shaped candbrum, and the incense burner dusted in gold!¡±

 Chapter 208 - Going Back To Mengxian

    <strong>Chapter 208: Going Back To Mengxian</strong>


    When Ren Zhixian saw how she barged into his study room and surveyed every corner, even questioning him, he could not help but turn angry from shame, ¡°How should I know! Maybe some fool took them away when cleaning the room!¡±


    Shi Yumeiughed coldly and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t this ce cleaned by Cui Bao? Which means she must be the one who took them away?¡±


    Cui Bao was already feeling very uneasy. Upon hearing Shi Yumei, her knees went weak and she kneeled, ¡°Please don¡¯t be angry. Forgive me, but it isn¡¯t me, it isn¡¯t me!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t point fingers without any evidence!¡± Ren Zhixian signalled Cui Bao to get up. He coughed once and said to Shi Yumei, ¡°Maybe your brother was so vexed that he took them away! Forget them, I¡¯ve always wanted to say this, and I¡¯ll say this now! Since your family dislikes me, then I don¡¯t want to stay here anymore. We¡¯ll pack up and go back to Mengxian in two days!¡±


    ¡°What are you saying!¡± Shi Yumei threw away the thought of retrieving the things that were lost and said unbelievably, ¡°Go back? Hmph, there isn¡¯t even a ce there to stand now, so where do you want us to stay! In what way did my mother and Fengju mistreat us, why are you maligning them!¡±


    Ren Zhixian sneered and said, ¡°They are naturally nice to you, the one they are not happy with is me! I, Ren Zhixian, still have some pride, I¡¯m not going to wait for them to chase me before I leave! You are my wife, of course you have to follow me wherever I go! Hmph, I have many friends in Mengxian, it doesn¡¯t matter which household we stay in temporarily, we¡¯ll slowly find a suitable house there and rent! Hmph, even if I freeze or starve to death, I¡¯m not going to continue to be put up with this resentment!¡±


    ¡°You must be crazy!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s body was trembling with anger. In her mother¡¯s house, she was living a very spoilt life again, so why would she want to go back to suffer in Mengxian? But she was the wife of this person in front of her right now. If he wanted to leave, she had to follow him!


    ¡°You are the crazy one here! Wake up, this is Shi Household, not Ren Household. We have to go back eventually! In short, I have already decided! Tomorrow, you will tell your mother that we will be leaving in two days!¡± Ren Zhixian said decisively.


    Shi Yumei panicked. She really didn¡¯t want to leave this ce! There is everything here, and there was no need for her to worry since her mother and brother would help her to resolve everything. These carefree days did not evenst half a year, and she had to return to those messy days again?


    Shi Yumei ced down her ego and begged Ren Zhixian while trying to convince him with benefits if they stayed. But would Ren Zhixian listen? That icy cold water poured on him during New Year¡¯s Eve would never be erased from his mind. And what about the servants in their house? After that day of suffering, he had lost all respect and they had started to show signs of disdain towards him. He was infuriated but there was nothing he could do about it. With Cui Bao urging him endlessly, how he wished to return to Mengxian and feel free and contented!


    ¡°There¡¯s a way to make me stay, ¡° Ren Zhixian chuckled coldly after hearing Shi Yumei persuade without stop, ¡°Tell your brother to kowtow to me and apologize with a cup of tea, then I will forgive him and let what happened in the past stay in the past! Then I will remain and let you be filial to your mother, how about that?¡±


    Shi Yumei was dumbfounded, and infuriated as well.


    There was no way she¡¯d suggest it to Shi Fengju in the first ce and let him suffer from such grievance. Even if she were to suggest it, with his personality, he would definitely refuse to do it!


    ¡°You have nothing to say anymore, right?¡± Ren Zhixian grumbled and said, ¡°If not, then do as I say! Don¡¯t forget to let your mother know about this tomorrow!¡±


    Shi Yumei turnedpletely stiff. She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Fine! I was the burdensome one in the first ce, I shouldn¡¯t havee back and added trouble for my mother and Fengju!¡±


    Without waiting until the next day, Shi Yumei suggested to Wang Shi about them returning to Mengxian.


    Wang Shi was curious and naturally asked why.


    Shi Yumei certainly would not say that it was solely her husband¡¯s idea. She came up with an excuse that Mengxian was her husband¡¯s home, and it was only right to return after being away for so long.


    Even though Wang Shi would not normally intervene in matters and wasn¡¯t someone who would give too much thought, she was not a fool. Her daughter¡¯s words seemed far-fetched and herplexion looked worse than normal, so she started questioning her. Initially, she thought it must¡¯ve been because she heard some rumors in the household and had some grievances, so she called Sang Wan over to find out which servant had the impudence to speak badly about their masters behind their backs.


    Now, things could no longer be kept in the dark. Without any choice, Shi Yumei ryed Ren Zhixian¡¯s request to return without forgetting to exclude all the disgraceful words that he said. Her eyes soon turned red as she thought more about it.


    Wang Shi could clearly see her unwillingness to leave, but she remained steadfast in her decision. Wang Shi immediately knew her son-inw must be the one responsible which made her very unhappy. However, she was unable to bring herself to re up as her daughter refused to say anything mean about him.


    ¡°Since this is what you want, then let¡¯s wait for Fengju toe back first!¡± Wang Shi could only sigh.


    On the same day when Shi Fengju returned home, Wang Shi requested for someone to call him over. Hearing that his big sister insisted on leaving, Shi Fengju said without any further thoughts, ¡°I suppose Brother-inw must beining about theck of freedom in our household? Since he insists, then so be it. You can pack up and I will have someone send all of you off when you¡¯re ready to leave!¡±


    Shi Yumei froze. Although deep down she felt a little disappointed, she forced a smile and thanked her brother.


    However, Wang Shi was unhappy about the decision andined to Shi Fengju, ¡°How can you speak this way? Do you only have eyes for your wife? Do you no longer care about others?¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Mother, Brother-inw insists on leaving. I presume that Big Sister has already tried to convince him but it did not work. What do you want me to say? Do you want me to kneel down to keep him here!¡±


    Wang Shi snorted and said, ¡°That¡¯s easy for you to say! But back in Mengxian, they have no stable ie, no assets, and not even a ce to rest their foot. How do you expect them to live their days!¡±


    Shi Yumei was precisely worried about this, and she nced towards Shi Fengju subconsciously.


    ¡°How is that difficult to resolve?¡± After Shi Fengi heard Wang Shi and his big sister¡¯s words and could somewhat guess what Ren Zhixian was thinking, so he said, ¡°I will ask a head servant to go along and buy a house with two courtyards. As for Brother-inw, let him study in peace, I will have a servant send some money there as an allowance every month. Big Sister, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Fenju, I really can¡¯t thank you enough!¡± The massive worry in Shi Yumei¡¯s heart was finally lifted, and she became ted in an instant.


    Wang Shi was feeling better too and she pped her hands together before letting out a sigh, ¡°That is great! Ai, let¡¯s hope that when he goes back, he will study hard and stop spending all the money on drinks to waste his days away!¡±


    Shi Fengju merely smiled quietly but Shi Yumei became awkwardly stiff.


    ¡°In a few days, Third Sister will be marrying out. Why don¡¯t you stay a few days and wait until after she¡¯s married before leaving?¡± Wang Shi suggested.


    However, Shi Yumei merely said, ¡°Third Sister is only marrying as a concubine. There is nothing to be excited about and it makes no difference even if we were present! I think my husband will only be more impatient, so it¡¯s best if we leave as soon as possible!¡±


    Since she had insisted, Wang Shi did not continue. Shi Fengju suddenly remembered the concern that Sang Wan had for Shi Lian and his heart went cold.


    Once Ren Zhixian received the Shi family¡¯s response from Shi Yumei, he was secretly gloating to himself and thought that Cui Bao¡¯s idea was indeed a fine one. The Shi family would never ignore the well-being of their eldest daughter! Now, they have a house and a monthly ie! Thinking about his past days of enjoyment, and everyone sucking up to him, Ren Zhixian¡¯s face lit up brightly. He could not wait to go back to the Mengxian that he had dreamt of.


    When the two came back from Mengxian, they only had a small baggage. Now that they were leaving, their luggages were bloated. Of course, they had clothes, makeup, and other goods to bring back with them now. Wang Shi doted on her daughter, so she prepared several high-quality fabrics, essories, birdnest, white fungus, ginseng, and so on for them to bring back with them as well. On the next day, Wang Shi took out tworge boxes for Nanny Jiang to send over to them.


    Shi Yumei was still packing her belongings with Cui Zhu and the two other maidservants. Seeing the things sent by her mother, she quickly received them and thanked Nanny Jiang before saying that she would thank her motherter.


    A moment after Nanny Jiang acknowledged and left, Ren Zhixian suddenly came in again. He nced at the tworge boxes but took no notice of them. After all, what was Shi Yumei¡¯s was also his, that included the tworge boxes as well. He could very well wait until they returned to Mengxian before taking them for himself to examine closely.


    He came to her because he had some questions for her.


    ¡°What? If you got something, say it!¡± Shi Yumei¡¯s expression was dark and she demanded coldly.


    Ren Zhixian pulled her to the side and asked, ¡°Did your brother say where he bought our house? How big is the house? Is the furniture already prepared? How about our monthly allowance, did he say how much he¡¯ll be giving every month?¡±


    ¡°You came to ask me this?¡± Shi Yumei was so angry that her head was throbbing.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Ren Zhixian had already been through so much that he no longer cared about his dignity. Without blushing or any shame, he said, ¡°Aren¡¯t I thinking for you? It doesn¡¯t matter to me because I¡¯m a man. Even if I am in a bad situation, I could just go to my friend¡¯s ce but you are different! You are the Eldest Missy of Shi Household, how can you bear experiencing hardship! Finding a good house with aplete set of furniture is all good for you! Furthermore, as the eldest missy of Shi Household, you are entitled to have a portion of Shi Household¡¯s asset in the first ce! That isn¡¯t too much to ask for, right?¡±


    ¡°Get out! Now!¡± Shi Yumei said resentfully, If you really want to know, then ask my brother yourself. You may not trust him, but I do. He won¡¯t mistreat his big sister! I will leave everything to him. If you¡¯re unsatisfied, then do as you please!¡±


    Ren Zhixianughed coldly and said, ¡°You really can¡¯t tell who¡¯s being good to you!¡± He said that and left.


    After packing for two days, Shi Fengju ordered Head Servant Yu to bring two servants with him to apany the couple, along with Cui Zhu and Cui Bao, back to Mengxian.


    Upon leaving, Wang Shi and Shi Yumei, mother and daughter, could not help but hold onto each other¡¯s hands longingly as they reluctantly bade farewell. Gu Fangzi was still sick in bed, but she ordered Lan Xiang to see them off on her behalf. Even though Gu Fangzi felt it was somewhat a pity since she would have one less person who supported her after Shi Yumei left, but it was not up to her to decide so it was only just a thought.


    When the group arrived at Mengxian, Head Servant Yu ordered the coachman to stop at the end of a deserted street in the east side of the town. A servant got off the carriage to undo the lock before driving the carriage in through the side gate.


    It was a house with two courtyards, with everything inside already prepared. There were more than ten rooms, more than enough for all of them to stayfortably.


    ¡°All the furniture has already been prepared, and the kitchen servants are also hired. They¡¯re husband and wife, so the man is in charge of looking after the household, and keeping it clean. They will immediately start work tomorrow! Please go in first! This old servant will have the servants move the things in!¡±

 Chapter 209 - Fu Qu Lodge On Fire

    <strong>Chapter 209: Fu Qu Lodge On Fire</strong>


    Although the courtyard was spick and span, the powder-white walls and even the curtains of the newly-painted doors and windows were all brand-new. A pomegranate tree and a Yn magnolia tree were also nted in the courtyard, filling it with vigor. However, it could not bepared to the Jiao Garden, let alone the lofty and magnificent pavilions in the Shi Household!


    After getting down from the horse carriage, Ren Zhixian raised his eyebrows. He was dissatisfied. To him, this courtyard was narrow and distasteful. How could he stay here?


    Shi Yumei was also slightly disappointed, but having to depend on her parents for help, this was still fine. Naturally, this ce could not bepared to the Shi family household, but it was notcking in any waypared to the well-off families in Mengxian.


    When she went into the house, all kinds of furniture were already prepared neatly. Shi Yumei was ted and ordered Cui Zhu and others to move their things in.


    ¡°Head Servant Yu, this is the ce that your Young Master arranged for us? Is there nowhere else? Yumei is used to livingfortably so I¡¯m afraid she might not be ustomed to this!¡± Ren Zhixian called Head Servant Yu over and asked in a low tone.


    ¡°This ce is peaceful and the people around here are good people, which is exactly suitable for you! It¡¯s enough for both you and Eldest Missy to live here with a few servants! Young Master told me that if you¡¯re unsatisfied, you can search for one on your own in the future!¡± Head Servant Yu said, neither in a humble nor overbearing tone.


    Where would Ren Zhixian be able to do so on his own? Upon hearing that, he pulled a long face and snorted without saying a word. He then asked again, ¡°Where are the living expenses for this month? Did you bring it here?¡±


    Head Servant Yu replied, ¡°I¡¯ve handed everything else to Eldest Missy!¡± He then faintly added on, ¡°You¡¯re a schr so I was afraid that you¡¯d dislike the foul odor of money!¡±


    Ren Zhixian¡¯s expression worsened but he had no way out. He stamped his feet and said, ¡°Forget it. ce the things inside the courtyard and go back and report to your master! Hold on, where is the deed for this house? Did you hand it to your Eldest Missy as well?¡±


    ¡°The deed?¡± Head Servant Yu responded at a loss, ¡°I don¡¯t have any deed! This house was bought with the household funds so the deed is naturally with the household. But Young Master said that you and Eldest Missy can stay here without worries!¡±


    Ren Zhixian jumped. ¡°Do you mean that this house belongs to the Shi Family?¡±


    ¡°Since the house was bought with the household funds, it is naturally theirs.¡± Head Servant Yu tried to maintain his smile but his heart was filled with disdain as he thought to himself: He still dared to ask such a question despite being a schr. What an oddball to not feel any shame!


    Ren Zhixian grew furious, and his face turned red. He wished he could point at Head Servant Yu¡¯s nose and swear at him before taking his wife and concubines away with him. However, it was a pity that he was hard on money. He had the idea but not the guts.


    ¡°If there is nothing else, I will take my leave first! It¡¯s gettingte and I still have to rush back to report to Young Master!¡± Head Servant Yu said with a slight bow.


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Ren Zhixian forced the words out and the great resentment in his heart was quickly dispersed.


    Head Servant Yu smiled slightly and wasn¡¯t bothered by his attitude. He then went back in to bid farewell to Shi Yumei. Taking with him two servants as per usual, he ordered the cart driver to hurry up before departing in a hurry.


    After they left, Ren Zhixian rushed to Shi Yumei and asked where the living expenses were.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you?¡± Shi Yumei was immediately on guard and answered back, ¡°This is our household¡¯s living expenses. Don¡¯t even think about using it to fool around!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m asking you how much is there!¡± Ren Zhixian was getting impatient.


    Shi Yumei told him unhappily, ¡°A hundred silvers!¡±


    ¡°Only a hundred?¡± Ren Zhixian said with a sneer, ¡°Could it be that your Shi family is only left with an empty shelf? As the eldest daughter of the family, they¡¯re only willing to part with a hundred silvers a month!¡± It was not even enough to have a good meal outside!


    Shi Yumei replied with a sneer, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that not only am I the Eldest Missy of the Shi family, but I am now also a daughter-inw of the Ren family. What about you? How much did you hand over to me?¡±


    Ren Zhixian stared coldly at her and snorted. He quickly imed he was tired and needed some rest. He then dragged Cui Bao to serve him, abandoning Shi Yumei and her servant to continue tidying up.


    Shi Yumei kept scolding him in a fit of anger while Cui Zhu tried coaxing her with a smile.


    Ren Zhixian had not expected that not only was there nowhere to move about in the house, but every restaurant and shop in this region had also be stingy as they were unwilling to let him pay by credit! At first, he could not understand why, but after giving it some thought, he guessed that it must be Shi Fengju¡¯s doing. He became ashamed and furious. Not only that, he had also lost his face in front of his friends, and quarreled with Shi Yumei every day without a day of peace.


    As for Head Servant Yu, he reported back to Shi Fengju regarding the matters in Mengxian without missing any details. Shi Fengju did not care too much about it and only faintly smiled before ordering him to leave. At the same time, the person in charge of the storehouse came to report: Many of the decorations and furnishings in Jiao Garden had disappeared so they were unable to tally them before sending them back into the storehouse¡­


    Shi Fengju did not even have to think about it to know that his brother-inw had stolen them, and said, ¡°You can start a list, but don¡¯t forget to state in the books that it was lost!¡±


    The person in charge was well aware why the things went missing and responded with a smile before taking his leave.


    Shi Fengju unconsciously let out a deep sigh and thought of his brother-inw. He wondered how angry he must be when he returned to Mengxian but was held back from living an undisciplined life! But no matter what, he shouldn¡¯t be venting his anger on his older sister!


    The household was in the midst of preparing Shi Lian¡¯s marriage. Since she was going to be a concubine, they were limited to only a few varieties. There were no signs of busyness and cheerfulness in the householdpared to back when Shi Yumei got married.


    To their surprise, when the sky turned bright this day and Shi Fengju and Sang Wan were still sleeping in each other¡¯s embrace, they were woken up by Nanny Li¡¯s rmed knock on the door.


    ¡°Young Master! Young Mistress! Something bad has happened! Third Missy¡¯s Fu Qu Lodge is on fire!¡±


    ¡°What? It¡¯s on fire!¡± It came as a big shock to Sang Wan and both of them hurriedly put on their clothes after getting up.


    ¡°How is Third Sister? Has the fire been brought under control?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s expression turned heavy.


    ¡°How did it catch fire all of a sudden! My Lord, let¡¯s hurry over! And, don¡¯t let Mother know first to avoid frightening her!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly said.


    Nanny Li said, ¡°I¡¯ve already called for people to put the fire out. It¡¯s hard to say how the fire is now! Only some of Third Missy¡¯s hair has been burnt and she probably fainted from the smoke. She is now at Zhui Jin Building and I¡¯ve already sent someone to call for a physician!¡±


    Sang Wan and Shi Fengju hurriedly put on their cloaks and went over with a few servants.


    The fire had been brought under control but there was still some crackling of fire. The thick smoke could still be seen clearly, soaring to the sky, and the ashes scattered all over in the air made it suffocating.


    Sang Wan could not help but cover her mouth and start coughing. Shi Fengju hurriedly protected her and patted her back lightly while gently saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go to Zhui Jin Building instead!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded her head.


    Very soon, the physician arrived and carried out first aid for Shi Lian before she finally woke up. She seemed to be terribly frightened and started crying loudly when she saw Shi Fengju and Sang Wan. Cai Yun also kept crying at the side. Nanny Li then ordered someone to bring Cai Yun to rest and called Hong Ye, who stood at the side, to serve in her stead.


    Sang Wanforted Shi Lian first and asked Shi Fengju to leave before calling someone to help Shi Lian get changed and to wash her face. From there, she realized that her thigh had been badly burned which would most likely leave a scar!


    Nanny Li and the others sighed.


    ¡°What happened! How did it catch fire all of a sudden!¡± Someone had already leaked the news to Wang Shi. Upon hearing about it, she was startled at first, and then turned furious and anxious. She then hurriedly wore her clothes and rushed over.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Lian lifted her head from the pillow in distress and kowtowed to Wang Shi, saying, ¡°Mother, I¡¯m unfilial. I¡¯m unfilial for making Mother worry!¡±


    ¡°Where is Cai Yun? What exactly is going on!¡± Wang Shi was enraged seeing her unscathed.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju came in and said as he held onto her, ¡°Third Sister is in great shock and the physician has just prescribed rxants for her to take. Let¡¯s talk outside!¡± He then helped Wang Shi out.


    Sang Wan nodded at Shi Lian and ordered people to take care of her properly before she went out as well.


    Shi Fengju had already found out the cause. Last night, Shi Lian had been copying Buddhist scriptures for a long time and forgot to extinguish themp before she slept. Her windows were also not shut tightly so the oilmp ended up being blown by the wind and started burning the tablecloth, leading to therge fire.


    ¡°Let Third Sister temporarily stay in Zhui Jin Building! Fortunately, she¡¯s fine and there¡¯s nothing important in her house so let it be if they¡¯re gone. When the weather bes warmer, call some servants to clear away the remains and rebuild it. Mother, you mustn¡¯t take this to heart!¡± Shi Fengju persuaded his mother.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi had a cold face and could not help saying, ¡°She¡¯s grown up now but why is she so careless in her actions! She still wanted to umte good fortunes on my behalf by copying the Buddhist scriptures and something like this happened! She almost scared me to death!¡±


    ¡°Mother, this is just an ident. Who could have expected it!¡± Shi Fengju replied with a smile.


    Wang Shi sighed and asked Sang Wan, ¡°What did the physician say? Was she injured anywhere?¡±


    Sang Wan responded, ¡°The physician said that she has been frightened and needs to recuperate for some time. Her hair was burnt along with a few blisters on her hands but they are not serious. However, she has a nearly half-a-foot-long burn on her left lower thigh, around as big as half a palm, which is quite serious. The physician examined it and said it might leave a scar¡­¡±


    ¡°How can this be!¡± Wang Shi mmed the table with her palm and was really furious this time. She grumbled, ¡°Why does this have to happen at a time like this! That girl is making me worry more and more! The Hong family is going to fetch her in a few days. How can this be good!¡±


    Shi Fengju and Sang Wan nced at each other without a word.


    After Wang Shi sighed andined for a while, she said with a frown, ¡°Fengju, what do you say we should do about this!¡±


    Shi Fengju replied with a sigh, ¡°Mother, do you still have to ask! How can Third Sister get on the bridal sedan chair in this manner! Don¡¯t tell me you want her to recuperate at the Hong family!¡±


    Wang Shi was at a loss for a while. ording to Sang Wan, she had a serious burn on the leg and it probably would not recover in half a month or twenty days at least. The son of the Hong family was taking in a concubine and not an offering to his ancestors, so how would he be willing to carry her back to recuperate and serve? Besides, with the burn on her leg, would he still fancy her!


    ¡°Forget it!¡± Wang Shi said with a sigh, ¡°The most I would lose is this old face of mine. I will send someone to withdraw this marriage after dawn! That girl has no luck, she can¡¯t me anyone else but herself!¡±


    ¡°We can only do this!¡± Shi Fengju responded with a sigh.

 Chapter 210 - Withdraw

    <strong>Chapter 210: Withdraw</strong>


    ¡°Mother, everything¡¯s alright now, why don¡¯t you go back and rest first!¡± Sang Wan quickly said.


    Wang Shi was not willing to stay another second. She nodded and ordered Sang Wan to handle it properly, and informed her that there was no need to greet herter in the day as she left with Nanny Jiang and Xiu Chun.


    ¡°Young Master and Young Mistress, you should go back and rest too! There¡¯s this old servant here to handle this!¡± After sending Wang Shi away, Nanny Li smiled at Shi Fengju and Sang Wan.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll have to trouble Nanny,¡± Shi Fengju did not refuse and replied before pulling Sang Wan with him.


    It was almost time in the morning when they would usually wake up after the rays of morning light shone in. The couple returned to their chamber but could no longer go back to sleep. They took off their outer robes, and spoke to each other as they covered themselves under the nket.


    Sang Wan¡¯s ck eyes widened and glimmered, and she blinked a few times while staring intently at Shi Fengju with a mixture of inquiry and curiosity.


    ¡°Why are you staring at me? Have you be half-witted after the big fire? Do you not recognise your husband anymore?¡± Shi Fengju smiled and pulled her into his embrace, and his finger ran over her smooth and petite nose yfully.


    Sang Wan nibbled her lips andughed lightly, ¡°Tell me honestly, how did the big fire start in Fu Qu Lodge?¡±


    She did not give a second thought about it at first, but when she thought more about itter, she found it strange¡­ Even though Shi Lian was sobbing profusely, Sang Wan sensed that she was a little nervous, and there was too much crying. Furthermore, when Wang Shi subsequently called off the marriage in annoyance, Sang Wan¡¯s suspicion grew.


    Shi Fengju heard her curious inquiry but did not twitch a brow; he whispered in her ears with a smile, ¡°I knew I could not keep it from you. But you see, hasn¡¯t it been resolved? The Hong family would not follow through with the marriage again!¡± After all, Shi Lian was going to get married as a concubine and not as a wife.


    ¡°So it was you!¡± Sang Wan was suddenly somewhat out of words. This person was not a fool, and neither did he blink an eye at starting a fire in his household! Was he not afraid that the fire might go out of control?


    ¡°Then the wound on Third Sister¡¯s leg¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fake!¡± Shi Fengju simply answered, ¡°I¡¯ve already told her, if Mother does not call off the marriage today, then she¡¯ll have to act like she was traumatized by the fire and behave like a madwoman and speak nonsensically. When that happens, a priest will have to be invited to take a look at her!¡±


    The priest would naturally have to exorcise the evil. As for what the priest would say, it would be entirely up to Shi Fengju. It was a piece of cake for him to identify the marriage as inauspicious and the couple would not be a blessed pair.


    Sang Wan was nowpletely out of words. She stared at Shi Fengju and did not return to her senses even after a long time.


    Shi Fengju raised his chin proudly as if he was waiting for his well-deservedpliment and he nuzzled her face whileughing, ¡°Your husband is very smart, right?¡±


    Sang Wanughed. She nodded andplimented, ¡°Yes, very smart!¡±


    ¡°Are you very impressed?¡±


    ¡°I am!¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t just use your lips, you have to express it in some way or another¡­¡± Shi Fengju smiled and leaned forward.


    When the sky was finally bright, Wang Shi indeed sent Nanny Jiang to deliver her message. For such a thing to happen just a few days before the marriage, the old mistress in the Hong family thought that the girl was indeed an unlucky one who would only bring bad luck. She already had her reservations, and upon hearing how her thigh had a burn, she lost interestpletely. Now that the Shi family had taken the initiative to cancel the marriage, it was in her best interest as well. In just a few sentences, the cancetion was settled and never talked about again.


    Hong Xi did not mind at all. He told all his good-for-nothing friends that he would not want a disfigured and unlucky girl like her! Not that he could not have her, but she could not match up to him!


    Those friends never dared to mock him. Everything he said was for his face, and everything he heard was naturally to tter him. Hong Xi felt pleased andpletely put the marriage behind him! Qingzhou had many other beauties with interesting personalities, which one of them were not better than Shi Lian who only looked good on the outside, but wept constantly and had no charm at all?


    When Shi Lian received news that the marriage was cancelled, she heaved a huge sigh of relief, and held onto Sang Wan¡¯s hands as she was ovee with strong emotions.


    Sang Wan consoled her for a while before she could not help but sigh to herself. After this incident, she was afraid that it would be a long time before Wang Shi would talk about her marriage again! And who knew whether this would be detrimental for her in the long run.


    In a blink of an eye, Gu Fangzi¡¯s mourning period would be over soon, but she was still sick in bed. Sang Wan struggled for a while and took one of the days during her usual morning greetings to ask Wang Shi how she should prepare for Gu Fangzi.


    Wang Shi thought for a while and said, ¡°This is Fangzi¡¯s matter, she should make the decision so you should be asking her and prepare ordingly!¡± After which, she looked at Sang Wan with a peculiar look and paused before saying, ¡°Sang Wan, Fangzi has a good disposition, and she grew up by my side since young. If she were to leave our household, my heart would feel a little empty. I actually find the both of you getting along quite well; would you want her to remain here?¡±


    Sang Wan felt a little upset. Of course she would not want that but she could not say it aloud.


    ¡°Mother, this is entirely up to you and Lord, Sang Wan will not say otherwise.¡±


    Wang Shi then said, ¡°Then what if I insist on hearing your answer?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression stiffened. She knew that without a good word or two, her mother-inw would not be satisfied. Without a choice, she could onlyply with a smile, ¡°Mother dotes on Sister Fangzi a lot, of course Sang Wan hopes that she can stay by your side to take care of you and make you happy!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s face finally brightened up, and she smiled while nodding, ¡°This is what I want to hear! This is what our eldest daughter-inw in our Shi Household ought to be, virtuous and docile, and with a big heart. Since you think so too, then when you return, find an opportunity to convince Fengju not to make Fangzi leave anymore! Don¡¯t worry, you were married into this household in a grand sedan. No one can snatch away your position as the Young Mistress of the Shi Household!¡±


    ¡°This daughter-inw understands, Mother!¡± Sang Wan forced a smile before taking her leave.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart sank a little. She had never shown any disrespect ever since she entered the household, served to the best of her ability, ced her mother-inw first in decision-making, and was never biased when it came to managing the household. Having done everything by the book and never scrooging benefits for herself, why does her mother-inw only see Gu Fangzi and not her!


    ¡°Young Mistress! You¡¯re here!¡± Sang Wan was really deep in thought, so when Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s Nanny Gui shouted out to her, it really came out of the blue.


    Sang Wan immediately returned to her senses and replied, ¡°Nanny Gui, do you have something for me!¡±


    ¡°Our Old Mistress would like to invite Young Mistress over for a seat and wondered if Young Mistress is free right now!¡± Nanny Gui grinned.


    Sang Wan subconsciously looked past Nanny Gui and saw the budding of flowers and trees not far away. It was spring already so she presumed that Third Old Mistress Shi wanted to push her to get Qing Hui Garden sorted.


    She smiled and said, ¡°Right now, Mother-inw wants me to visit Peony Park2 first. How about in the afternoon? Will Third Aunt have the time?¡±


    ¡°Our old mistress usually has nothing in the day, she¡¯ll definitely have the time! Then this old servant will go back and inform Third Old Mistress; please don¡¯t forget toe in the afternoon!¡± Nanny Gui smiled and said.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Wan smiled again and nodded as Nanny Gui finally took her leave.


    Once she arrived at Peony Park to deliver Wang Shi¡¯s message, Gu Fangzi was not reckless and acted with courtesy even though her face was pale and her breathing was heavy. ¡°Sister Sang Wan, thank you for worrying about me! Even though I am feeling a little dizzy and fatigued, it isn¡¯t anything too serious. When the dayes, I will naturally have to go to Guang Ling Temple to do some ritual. I¡¯ll have to trouble Sister Sang Wan to make the arrangements for me ahead of time!¡±


    ¡°Of course, I have already informed Head Servant Jin to make the arrangements! Don¡¯t worry!¡± Sang Wan smiled. It would be inconvenient for her to make external arrangements directly, so she could only delegate the task to a head servant. Not only that, she was also reluctant to have a hand in Gu Fangzi¡¯s matter.


    ¡°Many thanks to Sister Sang Wan!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled lightly, and intentionally looked at Sang Wan before saying with a smile, ¡°You seemed to have lost much weight, but that can¡¯t be med! Sister Sang Wan has to handle so many things in the household, how can you not be exhausted? In a few more days when I am finally better, and my mourning period is over, I¡¯ll definitely help share your burden, so you can take a quick break!¡±


    Sang Wan immediately felt a slow anger building up within her, however, with a good upbringing, she never lost her temper in front of Gu Fangzi. Her expression changed a little before returning to normal. Acting as if she did not hear Gu Fangzi, she smiled, ¡°Sister Fangzi, you should have a good rest! You will only recover quickly if you worry less!¡± After that, she smiled and instructed Lan Xiang to take good care of her missy and left Peony Park.


    Not long after lunch, Sang Wan immediately went to Ji Cui Tower to meet Third Old Mistress Shi.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re here! Quickly,e in and take a seat!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled as she went forward to receive her.


    ¡°Thank you, Third Aunt!¡± Sang Wan bowed and entered. These days, Sang Wan instructed people to take good care of the activities in Ji Cui Tower. Third Old Mistress Shi was only sensitive then because she was worried that their arrival would be looked down on within the household. But after seeing how Shi Fengju and Sang Wan treated them with sincerity and cared for her family in every aspect, especially with Sang Wan treating her daughters well, her sensitivity slowly subsided and she began to understand Sang Wan more as she saw the good in her.


    After the formal greetings, Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Oh right, Third Aunt, it rains more especially between March and April in Qingzhou every year, with ten or more days when rain would fall without rain. The Southern wind also makes the region humid. These few days, I was thinking of cleaning up Qing Hui Garden once the weather bes better after April, and invite Third Uncle and Third Aunt to move there earliest before 15th August. What does Third Aunt think about it?¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi smiled and said, ¡°I actually find Ji Cui Tower a good ce to stay after being here for quite some time. The house is spacious and bright, and it is dry andfortable. I can see that much thought has been put into it when you chose this ce! You don¡¯t have to rush the cleaning for Qing Hui Garden, just do it at your own pace!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Since Third Aunt has put it that way, then I will take your word for it! Thank you, Third Aunt, for the understanding!¡±


    ¡°Why are you being so polite, we are a family!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled before she sighed, ¡°My brother-inw really had a good eye for choosing such a wonderful candidate as his eldest daughter-inw. I¡¯m not made out of wood, why wouldn¡¯t I realize the effort you¡¯ve shown me!¡±


    Nanny Gui grinned and smiled by the side, ¡°Yes, Young Mistress! Our old mistress would only sing praises when speaking about you! But you can¡¯t me her, your execution of every task really deservespliments!¡±


    ¡°Listen to what Third Aunt and Nanny said!¡± Sang Wan smiled, ¡°After you and Third Uncle returned, this is my duty in the family. Oh, before I forget to ask, what¡¯s the matter Third Aunt called me here for today?¡±

 Chapter 211 - Here Comes The Zhou Family

    <strong>Chapter 211: Here Comes The Zhou Family</strong>


    ¡°I must¡¯ve been so engrossed that I almost forgot my purpose for calling you here!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi tapped on her own forehead and smiled, ¡°Right, I want to buy several fertilends, and one to two country houses. By any chance, are you aware of any means to buy them?¡±


    Sang Wan was stunned momentarily, ¡°What Third Aunt wants¡ª¡ª¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi sighed softly and said, ¡°There isn¡¯t any need for me to hide from you. Our family¡¯s Yuzhen is already engaged to my lord¡¯s colleague and will be married in Chengdu in the middle of next year. As for Yulin, your third uncle and I have discussed it and thought that it would be good to find her a marriage here in Qingzhou in the next few years. We¡¯ll eventually turn old; it wouldn¡¯t be good if both of our daughters aren¡¯t near us. With that in mind, I¡¯m thinking of slowly purchasing severalnds now, and giving them to Yulin as her marriage dowry. I do know that our Shi family owns a fewnds, but this is to express our sincerity as her parents and it won¡¯t be a conflict of interest!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded, acknowledging with a smile, ¡°Since this is the case, Sang Wan will do her best! But I don¡¯t know much about what happens outside the household! For something like this, how about I discuss with Fengju when he¡¯s back, or I can ask a head servant who might know more about this!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi thought so too. However, as she was not in-charge of the household, it would not be convenient for her to privately invite and ask a head servant, who managed external affairs. She said happily, ¡°That will be great! Third Aunt shall give you my thanks here first!¡±


    ¡°I am only passing the word, Third Aunt has no need to be so polite with me!¡±


    After leaving Ji Cui Tower, Sang Wan took slow steps back to Ning Garden1. With her head hung low, she seemed to be deep in thought. Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s words had shaken her. She suddenly thought about herself and wondered if she should do the same and procure severalnds for herself.


    Everything was going smoothly for her. However, there was an irrational fear and insecurity within her whenever she was alone. She was clear that everything she now had belonged to Shi Fengju. What he gave, she received, but he could take them back at any time, and she would be penniless!


    Thinking back to the ambitious ims that Gu Fangzi had made not too long ago, Sang Wan¡¯s mind was in chaos.


    Gu Fangzi had a special ce in the Shi Household. Even though she did not know what happened between Gu Fangzi and Shi Fengju to make him feel so repelled by her now, as long as Wang Shi was around, Shi Fengju would not be able topletely send Gu Fangzi away. That woman was clearly a sly and scheming one, who knew what other crazy things she would do. One could be a thief for a thousand years, but there was no such thing as hiding the treasure from a thief for a thousand years. There was no way she could keep defending herself against Gu Fangzi! What if she were to identally fall into one of her traps one day, that possibility was there! When that happens and Shi Fengju bes angry with her, what should she do?


    The worst case scenario would be getting a separation, but whates after?


    Given the chance right now, she should insure herself with the purchase of private properties. At least with that, there was something she could fall back on to feel more secure.


    The more Sang Wan thought about it, the more convinced she was with the idea. She secretly made up her mind to inform Shi Fengju that Third Old Mistress Shi wished to purchase properties, and would ask a head servant to carefully investigate property prices.


    When Shi Fengju returned in the evening, Sang Wan¡¯s mood didn¡¯t seem too good. After he changed, he pulled her into the chamber and massaged her hands while asking with a smile, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Your expression doesn¡¯t look too well. Did someone cause any trouble for you today?¡±


    Sang Wan slightly trembled. She thought she had carefully concealed her emotions, yet this person could tell with a nce. In front of him, she was just like an open book.


    Her mother-inw¡¯s instructions were not words she would take lightly, otherwise, it would be terrible if she was out of luck. In any case, she had to tell him sooner orter, and since he had already asked, there was no need for her to hide it from him. Keeping her hands, she took a seat before rying her mother-inw¡¯s instructions before snapping, ¡°Mother wants me to convince you to let cousin stay in the household. Since I¡¯ve already told you, just do as you please!¡±


    Shi Fengju knew she must have been unhappy with his mother, but he did not get angry. He sat down beside her and said, ¡°Mother always liked to say those sorts of things, so don¡¯t take her words to heart!¡±


    Seeing how Sang Wan remained silent, Shi Fengju stretched his hand over her shoulders and hugged her against his body before using another hand to caress her face, ¡°What? Are you jealous?¡±


    Sang Wan red at him unhappily, and without her knowing, frustration tainted her words as she spoke, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you said to your mother, but if you were really firm, then she would not have used me to persuade you. She¡¯s an elder, how can I simply disobey her words? If I could not convince you, then it would be my fault, but it isn¡¯t my wish to convince you at all!¡±


    Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows and said, ¡°I¡¯ve really underestimated Cousin Fangzi! Who knew she was so capable!¡± Heughed coldly and said, ¡°What I hate most in life is being coerced. Even if she used any means and managed to stay, I will never nce at her!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart pounded loudly and she looked at Shi Fengju in a daze. Did he just say ¡°even if she managed to stay¡±? Was he going to give in and let her stay?


    Shi Fengju was a little puzzled by the look on her face, but he came to a realization quickly. He smiled and said, ¡°That was just a slip of the tongue. Sang Wan, I will not let her stay in our household to cause trouble for us! If she refuses to leave through the front door, then I will send her to one of the country houses far away!¡±


    ¡°Do you think she would be willing to go? You are being too simple-minded!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed coldly, ¡°Something as trifling as this won¡¯t pose a problem for me!¡±


    Sang Wan said, ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ve already ryed what Mother made me say. You¡¯ll have to deal with Mother yourself!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°That is only natural! If Motherins to you again, don¡¯t take it to heart, understood? Do it for me and put those resentments temporarily aside. In Ning Garden, you can vent them all on me!¡±


    Sang Wan burst into a soft giggle and waved her hands as she chided him, ¡°Forget it, forget it, I won¡¯t even dare to do that! If you were to take revenge on me, I will be the one ending up in tears!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled slyly and whispered in her ear with a soft chuckle, ¡°What sort of revenge would make you so fearful, huh?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red and she softly pushed him with a smile. Shi Fengju pulled her back into his embrace, and ced his forehead on her¡¯s and said with a low husky voice, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t be troubled by all that, your husband will never let you suffer!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded lightly, her eyes met his ck and clear eyes and her heart became filled with warmth. His face was near and she could not help but lift her head slightly to give a quick kiss on his cheek. Shi Fengju hummed softly and held her head before forcing a kiss on her lips. Using his tongue, he pried open her lips and kissed her deeply.


    On the twentieth of February, Gu Fangzi took her horse carriage and brought a few maidservants and nannies to Guang Ling Temple toplete her mourning period. She would return on the third day.


    Gu Fangzi wore apletely white robe, and her essories were all either white or silver. Her attireplemented her slightly pale face, and she looked the part of a depressed and pitiful filial daughter.


    Before she left, Wang Shi witnessed how she did not forget toplete the entire mourning ritual for her deceased father despite being sick. She felt a strong sense of pity for her, and consoled her with a gentle voice for a long while. After she left, Wang Shi did not forget to remind Sang Wan, ¡°Fang¡¯er is a kind and good girl! She really is filial! With a temperament like hers, she¡¯s so caring and considerate to those around her. Sang Wan, don¡¯t you agree with me?¡±


    How could Sang Wan disagree? She nodded unwittingly and smiled.


    Wang Shi gave her a meaningful look and smiled, ¡°It¡¯s good that you think so too! The both of you are sisters, you ought to take care of her more!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Mother, Sister Fangzi is so capable, I¡¯m afraid that she will be the one to take care of me in the future!¡±


    Wang Shi could notprehend the shrouded meaning behind her words, and nodded in agreement.


    After sending Wang Shi back, Sang Wan went back to Ji Cui Tower to inform Third Old Mistress Shi of her findings. There were a few fertilends that were coincidentally on the market. If they bought them now, they would be able to reap the harvest this year. Listening to Sang Wan¡¯s detailed exnation, Third Old Mistress Shi was very moved. Sang Wan also rmended having Nanny Gui check thend with the agent personally, and suggested for Liu Ya to apany her.


    Third Old Mistress Shi knew seeing was believing, and sheplimented Sang Wan for thinking things thoroughly before stating that she would send Nanny Gui out with Liu Ya to see for themselves the next day after breakfast.


    Sang Wan returned back to Ning Garden, and called Liu Ya over to instruct her carefully. Even though Liu Ya was a little confused and did not know why her Young Mistress called her to have a look at thosends, she would always obey and agreed to it.


    After ordering her to leave, Sang Wan rested on the couch as she let out a huge sigh. Judging from her mother-inw¡¯s stance, she must be insistent on keeping Gu Fangzi. There was nothing more to say, even if Shi Fengju tried, there was sure to be misgivings. If he remained firm, her mother-inw might not be able to do anything even if she was unwilling, but her mother-inw would definitely be angry at her instead. Then from that day onwards, her days would only be difficult.


    Gu Fangzi had been waiting patiently for so long, who knew what she would do once she acquired her freedom! Even with Shi Fengju¡¯s protection, who knows when trouble would arrive. Sang Wanughed to herself. It was fortunate that her big sister had returned to Mengxian. Otherwise, she would have to remain on her guard! Now, perhaps sooner orter, she would have to prepare herself both mentally and physically for what was toe!


    ¡°Young Mistress, Second Young Mistress¡¯ mother-inw and sister-inw are here! Right now, they are at Old Mistress¡¯ ce and Second Old Mistress is there with Old Mistress. Old Mistress has asked for Young Mistress to go over!¡± Zhide suddenly said through the paper door.


    ¡°Second Young Mistress? Old Mistress Zhou and Young Mistress Zhou are both here?¡± Sang Wan got up and ordered Zhide toe in. Deep down, she was somewhat curious about the situation.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Zhide pushed open the door and smiled, ¡°This servant will help Young Mistress change into your robe and groom your hair! This is really strange, why is Old Mistress Zhou and Young Mistress Zhou here but Second Mistress did note with them!¡±


    Sang Wan thought about it and found that strange too. She shook her head and ordered Zhide to help her change into a cherry red-coloured top with interweaving embroidered purple flower patterns, and an apricot-colored pleated skirt. Her hair was decorated with a brightly-coloured red coral hairpin embedded with pearls, and she brought Zhide along.


    When she first arrived at the main courtyard, she heard some quarrellinging from inside the house. She could identify Second Old Mistress Shi¡¯s voice, and there was another stranger¡¯s voice. Sang Wan assumed that it might be Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s voice. There were also Wang Shi¡¯s and nannies¡¯ voices as they tried to calm themotion. It was very rowdy inside.


    Sang Wan froze and immediately signalled to Zhide before taking a few steps back.

 Chapter 212 - Dispute

    <strong>Chapter 212: Dispute</strong>


    It was very rowdy inside and going in right now would not be good for her. From the two or three indistinct sentences she caught, it sounded like it had something to do with Second Young Mistress Shi, Zhou Jingyi. Sang Wan remained outside, at a corner of the main courtyard, and ordered Zhide to find out more first.


    Under her order, Zhide returned in a hurry and said, ¡°No wonder Second Young Mistress did not return! Old Mistress Zhou and Young Mistress Zhou are here to request a separation between Second Young Mistress Shi and Second Young Master Shi!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Sang Wan was shocked and sighed to herself.


    Zhou Jingyi was blessed. Even though her husband was unreliable, she had a good mother who would stand up for her! Sang Wan had never seen Second Young Master Shi, not even a few times, and had no impression of him, but from the way he had treated his wife, she could already tell that he was not a reliable man. For Old Mistress Zhou to be decisive enough to seek a separation, she must be quite bold and foresighted, and really loved her daughter! It was indeed very admirable.


    Standing in her shoes, it would be better for Zhou Jingyi to separate from her husband than to dy things further. Otherwise, when would this end? Sang Wan thought about how she might never be able to see her again in the future and felt a little disappointed.


    However, this was a difficult matter to resolve when it came to the Shi family.


    Second Young Master Shi had done something so disgraceful. If their daughter-inw were to call for a separation, the Shi family¡¯s face would be thrown! Wang Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi would never allow such a thing to happen!


    No wonder it was so noisy inside! Since Old Mistress Zhou had already decided to have a separation between the young couple, there was no way she would bother to be polite.


    ¡°Young Mistress, the situation inside is as noisy as a boiling porridge! Who knew that Old Mistress Zhou had quite a sharp tongue? That Young Mistress Zhou is also not an easy person to deal with as well. Old Mistress and Second Old Mistress are at a disadvantage in this conflict! Young Mistress, it¡¯s best that you don¡¯t go in. How about we return first!¡± Zhide held onto Sang Wan and smiled.


    Sang Wan thought about it and nodded with a smile, ¡°I don¡¯t think I will be of much help anyway. Nevermind, let¡¯s go back first! Ask someone to monitor the situation and inform me if there is any news!¡±


    Zhide nodded and ordered a young servant to observe the situation. The young servant was excited to gather more insider news, and epted with a smile.


    After taking a few steps, Sang Wan heard someone call out to her from behind and she stopped in her steps.


    Sang Wan turned and saw a young woman wearing a light yellow top embroidered with flowers, paired with a white skirt, as she hurried towards her along with a servant. Other than Zhou Jingyi, who else could it be?


    ¡°Sister Jingyi!¡± Sang Wan was both ted and surprised, and went up to her, ¡°Why are you here!¡±


    ¡°I...¡± Zhou Jingyi was feeling nervous and staggered, ¡°I heard my mother and my sister-inw came over, so I hurried here! Are my sister-inw and mother at Aunt-inw¡¯s ce? What could they have said!¡±


    Sang Wan saw how anxious Zhou Jingyi was, and felt somewhat certain of her conjecture. Holding Zhou Jingyi¡¯s hands, she pulled her to the back of the flower bushes, away from the servants, and whispered, ¡°Your mother, sister-inw, and mother-inw are at my mother-inw¡¯s ce! Don¡¯t worry, from the looks of it, they won¡¯t be arriving at any conclusion... you should know why your mother is here, right?¡±


    Zhou Jingyi lowered her gaze and sighed, before nodding softly, ¡°Of course I do. I...¡±


    She nibbled her lips and said, ¡°I¡¯ve never thought of asking for a separation, but my mother...¡±


    As a young woman, Zhou Jingyi¡¯s face blushed a little as she said softly, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I¡¯ve really never thought of a separation... Regardless of how long he takes toe back, as long as he does, I¡¯m willing to wait for him!¡±


    On the wedding night when he lifted her red veil, his handsome face came into her sight and imprinted itself deeply in her heart. From that moment, her nervous heart and mind calmed down miraculously. Her heart was gradually filled with sweetness and gentleness. She was very grateful to the heavens for blessing her with a perfect husband, and she would never forget him in this lifetime.


    Even though what came after left her devastated, she never lost hope. Largely because she knew that this was his home; his father, mother and siblings were here, and he woulde back one day! What she had to do was to patiently wait for him. Otherwise, he would not see her when he returns! As for the girl, Su Qing¡¯er, who he ran off with, Zhou Jingyi did not see her on the same level as herself and she was sure he would eventually grow tired of such a lowly woman. Even if they got together because of novelty, their rtionship would notst long as they were not people from the same ss.


    ¡°Sister Jingyi!¡± Sang Wan sighed softly. She did not know what to say as she held onto Zhou Jingyi¡¯s hand. Divorce and separation were never encouraged, even more so when she did not seem to have any intention to do so. ¡°Since you¡¯ve already decided, then let¡¯s go in and have a look. If the conflict between your family and my second aunt is huge, the one to receive the me will be you.¡±


    Zhou Jingyi¡¯s expression changed immediately, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, please go in with me!¡± She knew her mother¡¯s temper very well, and her mother-inw was already unhappy with her, if they really had a huge fight, then her life in the future would be a very difficult one.


    Sang Wan nodded, and went into the main courtyard with Zhou Jingyi.


    Right after they stepped into the main courtyard, the sound of conflict between Old Mistress Zhou and Second Old Mistress Shi could be heard.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think that just because the Shi family has formidable wealth, you can go trampling over others. My daughter is at such a young and delicate age but she has to be a living widow in your household. You could not make your son stay, yet you do not allow for a separation. Thispletely makes no sense!¡±


    ¡°Hmph, don¡¯t you worry! Do you think a separation document is difficult to get? When my sones back, you will get the separation paper even without you asking! For him to marry such a useless daughter-inw who could not keep a hold of her husband, why don¡¯t you teach your own daughter well first instead of making a ruckus in our house? How shameless of you!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s the one actually causing a ruckus here? Your son eloped with a vixen; how dare you talk about upbringing, even daring to speak badly of my daughter? What did my daughter not do right? Tell me, tell me quickly!¡±


    ¡°If she was capable enough, my son would not have left home even until now, and you still dare to ask me!¡±


    ¡°Pah! Your son was brought up by you since young while my daughter had onlye here for a few ****, how can you push all the me onto her? Did you think our Zhou family is easy to pick on? If I had known that your son would elope with a lowly vixen, even if a mountain of gold and silver were gifted to us, we would never agree to the marriage and betroth our daughter to your family! I tell you, if I do not receive the separation papers today, we¡¯ll settle this in court!¡±


    ¡°Fine, go on! If you are so capable, then go ahead!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I wouldn¡¯t dare!¡±


    ¡°Everyone, please calm down. We can settle this by talking!¡± Wang Shi was made dizzy by the heated argument and seemed as if she could not take it anymore.


    Old Mistress Zhou and Second Old MIstress Shi would not relent, and their argument only became worse. Full of anger, Old Mistress Zhou was incited by Second Old Mistress Shi and ordered her daughter-inw to follow her as she was about to head to the court.


    Zhou Jingyi panicked and barged in, blocking her mother while grabbing her elbow as she teared, ¡°Mother! Please!¡±


    ¡°Why are you here too?¡± Old Mistress Zhou creased her eyebrows. Everyone in the house was stunned by Zhou Jingyi¡¯s sudden appearance.


    ¡°Nevermind! You¡¯reing with me, we¡¯re going to the court now! I want to see whether the judge in Qingzhou is reasonable at all!¡± Old Mistress Zhou pulled at Zhou Jingyi to bring her along.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Please give some face to your daughter!¡± Zhou Jingyi panicked so much that tears started falling and she kneeled, tugging at Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s robe as she sobbed and begged.


    Old Mistress Zhou took in a deep breath before her eyes widened and she reprimanded, ¡°You aren¡¯t going? Why aren¡¯t you going?¡±


    Zhou Jingyi remained quiet with her head lowered as her tears continued to fall down her cheeks.


    Silence was the same as acknowledgment. Old Mistress Zhou felt that her face had been thrown, and she shook Zhou Jingyi¡¯s hand away in shame, before stomping her foot unhappily, ¡°You unfilial girl, do you want to be the death of me! You still want to remain here even though the Shi family are out to humiliate you! The Zhou Household does not have such a weak daughter like you!¡±


    Second Old Mistress Shi was delighted, and sheughed coldly, ¡°Zhou inw, you shouldn¡¯t say that. Jingyi is just being sensible! She knows that going to court isn¡¯t a glorious thing to do!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw!¡± Wang Shi creased her eyebrows and called out softly, Second Old Mistress Shi turned her head, and turned quiet.


    Old Mistress Zhou red at Second Old Mistress Shi once but could not find any words to rebut her. Her own daughter pped her in the face in front of everyone, what could she do?


    ¡°Enough, enough! My efforts have been wasted on you! From now on, you pray for your own fortune, I¡¯ll treat it as if I don¡¯t have you as my daughter! My daughter-inw, let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Zhou Jingyi was not only feeling embarrassed, but also guilty. She kneeled and hugged Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s thigh as she wept.


    ¡°What are you crying for! You still have the face to cry! If the Shi household is really that great and you want to stay, then stay! I¡¯m afraid that you¡¯re only going to dirty my leg! Let go of me!¡± Old Mistress Zhou was infuriated.


    Lu Shi secretlyined to herself. On one side was her mother-inw, and the other was her sister-inw; she could not afford to offend either side. If she said something wrong, then it would cause trouble for herself. That was why she could only try to pull at her mother-inw from the side. However, she did not know what she should say to console and stuttered, ¡°Mother-inw, please calm down.¡±


    Wang Shi got up and Sang Wan quickly walked up to her to support her, ¡°Zhou Inw, please let us discuss calmly. My nephew is young and does not know right from the wrong. When his mind has finally cleared up, he will eventuallye back. Zhou Inw, why must you separate the couple? The Zhou household is also arge and reputable household, it would not be good for your daughter if word got out that she had a separation!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou said coldly, ¡°If your nephew neveres back? Will my daughter remain a widow forever? Hmph, doesn¡¯t the Shi Household do business everywhere? Already two to three years and nobody could find him at all, who knows how he is doing right now! The Zhou household would rather throw our face than sabotage our daughter¡¯s entire life!¡±


    Wang Shi was suddenly left without words. Second Old Mistress Shi was furious from being hit in her sorespot, but before she could refute, her eyes caught a glimpse of Wang Shi¡¯s cold face. Second Old Mistress Shi immediately held her tongue.


    Sang Wan went to help Zhou Jingyi up, and a tactful maidservant went forward to help her as well. Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, my sister-inw misses our second family¡¯s young master very much. That must show that he had treated her well. He is only foolish now, but this is his home, he wille back eventually! Old Mistress Zhou, why don¡¯t you wait a little more? If you separate them now, won¡¯t it be a waste for the couple if our second family¡¯s young masteres back?¡±

 Chapter 213 - News Of Shi Fengming

    <h4>Chapter 213: News Of Shi Fengming</h4>


    Old Mistress Zhou carefully observed Sang Wan. Hearing how her daughter softly called Sang Wan ¡®sister-inw¡¯ and held her hand, she said, ¡°Are you the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress? Sigh, our Jingyi is a naive girl with a clumsy mouth. If she has half your brain and wit, then she wouldn¡¯t be in this situation! Wait a minute? A man may be fine ying around outside, but a woman¡¯s youth passes quickly. How can she afford to wait a few more years!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s words were hinting at how Sang Wan was able to ¡°snatch¡± Shi Fengju away from Gu Fangzi¡¯s hands. Many who were present immediately understood what she meant, and there were weird expressions on their faces. Sang Wan turned a little embarrassed, but responded obliviously with a smile, ¡°No matter how many years pass, Sister Jingyi will always be the formal wife of the second family¡¯s young master; nobody can step above her! For the past two years, the Shi Household has never stopped finding him. Old Mistress Zhou, please have a little more patience, there will definitely be an end to this!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Zhou inw, it isn¡¯t as if the couple do not harbor any feelings for one another. If you just break them apart like this, won¡¯t it be a pity? My nephew is only being foolish now, but after receiving a lesson, I¡¯m sure he won¡¯t make the same mistake again! When that timees, won¡¯t it be great for the couple to be able to continue living harmoniously? If you ask for your daughter back now, her reputation might be ruined as some mightment that your daughter did not abide by the virtues of being a good wife, how will you find another favorable marriage for her? My words may not sound pleasant, but if you think about it, isn¡¯t this how society works?¡± Wang Shi smiled and said.


    Old Mistress Zhou widened her eyes in anger upon hearing what Wang Shi said, but after a thorough thinking, she could not help but admit that what Wang Shi said was right. A man fooling around outside would be deemed a skilled womanizer, but a woman who stepped out of line in any way would be deemed a shameless sl*t! Even though Shi Fengming was in the wrong, it was only a small case of fooling around in the eyes of the public. As for her daughter who was only married for two years, if she had agreed with the separation and went home, what Wang Shi said could very well happen. People woulde up withments such as ¡°the Young Lady could not resist the loneliness¡±, ¡°and ¡°thirsting for men¡±. If a virtuousdy was stuck with insidious rumors like these, then her whole life was ruined.


    ncing at the tears rolling from her daughter¡¯s eyes and the pleading look on her face, Old Mistress Zhou could only sigh softly to herself.


    ¡°But she cannot simply wait indefinitely like this! Does my daughter have to remain a widow forever?¡± Old Mistress Zhou sneered.


    Second Old Mistress Shi finally lost her cool and stomped her foot as she questioned, ¡°What do you mean? You are cursing my son!¡±


    ¡°Sister-inw, Zhou inw, please settle down and we can discuss this slowly. Calm down now, calm down, even if you are angry, nothing good woulde out of it!¡± Wang Shi quickly interrupted.


    Sang Wan signaled with her eyes and Zhide, as well as Xiu Chun, went up to help the two old mistresses to their seats. Sang Wan helped Wang Shi back to her seat and stood behind her while Lu Shi and Zhou Jingyi positioned themselves behind Old Mistress Zhou.


    ¡°I will allow my daughter to wait for another year. If your family¡¯s second young master doesn¡¯t return after a year, Old Mistress, then please do us justice and send my daughter back to us!¡± Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s eyes were red and she wiped her tears off, ¡°I¡¯m not an unreasonable person. After all, we are all parents; which parent doesn¡¯t want the best for their children? What wrong did my daughtermit? I cannot simply watch my daughter be humiliated when she is a virtuous and innocent girl!¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± As soon as Second Old Mistress Shi opened her mouth to speak, Wang Shi immediately red at her.


    Wang Shi thought about it and said, ¡°One year is a little too short, how about three years? In three years, if my nephew still hasn¡¯t returned, then we will send Jingyi back to you!¡±


    They required a proper exnation for sending a daughter-inw back to her family. If the husband¡¯s family took the initiative to send her back, then the generosity belonged to the mother-inw in not wasting her daughter-inw¡¯s precious youth. As a daughter-inw, she should still express her reluctance to leave while the mother-inw convinces her to ept her well-intended instructions. Once epted, the daughter-inw would repeatedly turn her head back as she walked to her home with tears in her eyes. In doing so, the public would not speak badly about the daughter-inw. Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s request for the Shi household to send her daughter back willingly was precisely about that.


    ¡°Three years is too long!¡± Old Mistress Zhou creased her eyebrows slightly, ¡°That is really too long!¡± Her daughter was now eighteen and would be twenty-one after three years. After which, she naturally could not get married immediately and had to wait for another two or three years. By then, she would have be an old spinster!


    ¡°Zhou Inw, if you aren¡¯t willing, you can take your daughter back now!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi sneered.


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°I still think that three years is too short! Hmph, but since my sister-inw has said so, then I¡¯m without a choice! But if you aren¡¯t happy about it, then you can take her away now! Did you think that my son would not be able to remarry and have a good wife?¡± Second Old Mistress Shi spoke with a belly full of unhappiness.


    ¡°How dare you! It seems you aren¡¯t looking to have a civil discussion?¡± Old Mistress Zhou was infuriated.


    ¡°That¡¯s because you were being difficult!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi was unwilling to back down.


    ¡°Enough, enough! Let¡¯s all remain calm and not be hot-tempered! If an argument breaks out again, this won¡¯t end even when the sky is dark!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s head began to hurt when they started bickering. Suddenly, she spotted a young maidservant peeking suspiciously. She mmed the tea table and eximed, ¡°What are you doing there sneakily? Your masters are talking, how dare you be so unruly! Nanny Jiang, teach her a good lessonter! This household must be gettingx now that everyone is bending the rules!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress, please forgive me!¡± The young maidservant was so scared that her face turned pale, and she quickly ran in to kneel in front of Wang Shi before kowtowing, ¡°It¡¯s just that, it¡¯s that, Young Master had something for Young Mistress and sent this servant to invite her out sneakily. This servant¡­¡±


    Sang Wan was made extremely embarrassed, and thought that this servant was being extremely untactful. Her young master had told her to do so secretly, so she should have done so ordingly. Why was she so incapable!


    ¡°Mother! I will go out and take a look. I¡¯m not sure what Lord has for me as well,¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Wang Shi red at her and nodded without speaking. She waved her hand at the servant and eximed, ¡°What are you waiting for, leave now!¡±


    The servant quickly obeyed and picked herself up before leaving speedily.


    As soon as Sang Wan exited through the door, she saw Shi Fengju waiting for her with his hands behind his back. He smiled gently at her when he saw her.


    Sang Wan quickly walked towards him and smiled, ¡°Why are you home at this time? What¡¯s so important that it cannot be said at night?¡± And fancy seeing youe all the way to your mother¡¯s ce!


    Shi Fengju smiled, and habitually raised his hand to circle her shoulder, but he quickly put it down awkwardly and said, ¡°This is something important and I wanted to go straight to Second Uncle and Second Aunt, but I heard that the Zhou family were here and made a ruckus so I hurried here! You can go in and tell them that there is news of second brother!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s heart jumped. She smiled and said, ¡°Really? Your news really arrived at the most perfect time! They are mulling over this exact matter right now!¡±


    ¡°Quickly go in and let them know!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°Second Brother seems to have appeared in Dezhou. I¡¯ve only received the news just now and I¡¯ve already sent people to hurry there, please assure them!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded hurriedly, ¡°I will go in and let them know now, Second Aunt and Old Mistress Zhou will surely want to speak with you personally, so wait a while before leaving!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou brought along her daughter-inw and everyone in the house were women so it was not appropriate for Shi Fengju to simply barge in.


    Shi Fengju smiled and nodded.


    Sang Wan genuinely felt very happy for Zhou Jingyi. With this news, all the arguments woulde to a stop, otherwise, no one knew when Old Mistress Zhou and Second Old Mistress Shi would stop quarreling! Just from the looks of Wang Shi¡¯s expression, it was evident that she was growing extremely impatient.


    Sang Wan only left for a while and was back very soon. Her steps were light and there was a bright smile on her face when she returned. That smile was an eyesore to both Old Mistress Zhou and Second Old Mistress Shi, and they felt ufortable. Even Wang Shi creased her eyebrows and wondered what the matter was with Sang Wan. Even if Shi Fengju doted on her and brought her some treasure, was there a need for her to smile so carelessly in front of everyone else? Even she couldn¡¯t bear to look at her, let alone them!


    Wang Shi was just about to reprimand Sang Wan when she suddenly went up to her and bowed before giving a hopeful look at Second Old Mistress Shi and Old Mistress Zhou. With a smile, she said, ¡°Mother, Second Aunt, Old Mistress Zhou, Sang Wan has an enormous piece of good news. My lord has told me that he has received news of Second Young Master¡¯s whereabouts!¡±


    ¡°What!¡±


    ¡°Really!¡±


    The three old mistresses froze momentarily before they all became joyful.


    ¡°Great, great! This is really great! Where¡¯s Shi Fengju? Call him in, I want to ask him about it!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi could not wait to hear from Shi Fengju.


    After the initial shock, Old Mistress Zhou first calmed herself down before raising an eyebrow questioningly, ¡°This isn¡¯t a plot by your entire family to trick us, is it?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean! Are you looking forward to my son never returning!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi jumped.


    Old Mistress Zhou did not back down and rebutted, ¡°If not why would this be so coincidental? Why was the news only received right on the day that I came? If this doesn¡¯t seem like a plot to trick us, then what is?¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Seeing her mother-inw¡¯s dark and ominous face, almost as if she was about to start another quarrel, Zhou Jingyi anxiously said, ¡°Mother, Big Brother Fengju isn¡¯t someone like that. Furthermore, he doesn¡¯t even know that we would being today, so how can this be a plot? Anyway, what good will plotting do? Mother, why don¡¯t we call Big Brother in and carefully ask him about it!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, Jingyi is right! Xiu Chun, quickly go and call Shi Fengju in!¡± Wang Shi hurriedly added.


    Sang Wan smiled and said, ¡°I suppose Young Mistress Zhou and Sister Jingyi must be tired. Mother, why don¡¯t I apany them to take a rest in the guest room?¡±


    Wang Shi thought about it and agreed. Lu Shi was the Zhou Household¡¯s daughter-inw, it would not be appropriate for her to be here, so Wang Shi nodded and smiled, ¡°Us adults here will be enough to settle this, the rest of you can go and take a rest!¡±


    Sang Wan agreed and led Lu Shi and Zhou Jingyi into the room. Lu Shi gave an appreciative smile to Sang Wan but Zhou Jingyi actually wanted to stay behind to listen to the news. However, it was not right to leave her sister-inw alone, so without a choice, she could only follow.


    When Shi Fengju entered, Second Old Mistress Shi quickly asked, ¡°Fengju, is there really news of your second brother? Where is he now? Is he doing okay?¡± As she spoke, she sounded like she was about to cry.


    Shi Fengju hurriedly coaxed, ¡°Second Aunt, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m sure Second Brother is in good health since there¡¯s news!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou gave a low sneer, ¡°Then where is he now? When will he return?¡±


    Those were also what Second Old Mistress Shi was most concerned about, and she looked nervously at Shi Fengju.


    Shi Fengju quickly answered, ¡°A business friend of mine saw him at Dezhou a month ago. Immediately after receiving this piece of news, I hurried back to deliver it! Second Aunt and Old Mistress Zhou, please do not worry, I will send a few people to Dezhou tomorrow to search for Second Brother and bring him back in one piece!¡±


    ¡°Good! Good!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi nodded repeatedly.

 Chapter 214 - I’ll Personally Find Him

    <h4>Chapter 214: I¡¯ll Personally Find Him</h4>


    Old Mistress Zhou added, ¡°It would be best if you can bring him back! Let¡¯s hope that all the work won¡¯t be for nothing especially since the news was from a month ago!¡±


    ¡°You! What good would it be for you if my son doesn¡¯te back!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi was infuriated.


    ¡°Second Aunt, Old Mistress Zhou, please don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Fengju quickly added, ¡°Since Second Brother has been spotted in Dezhou, we will be able to identify his whereabouts even if he is no longer there!¡±


    ¡°Fengju! Second Aunt can only count on you! Even if you have to resort to tying him up, you have to bring him back!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi cried.


    Shi Fengju and Wang Shi quickly went to console her.


    ¡°Zhou Inw, since there is news about my nephew, how about we put this matter aside first! After all, won¡¯t everything be resolved once we find and bring him back?¡± Wang Shi quickly said.


    Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s heart was in a mess at the moment. As Second Old Mistress Shi was sitting uneasily in her seat and did not have the mind to resume the argument, Old Mistress Zhou could only sigh, ¡°Fine, then I will wait for your news! It isn¡¯t early anymore so we¡¯ll be taking our leave now!¡±


    ¡°You and your daughter-inw can go back if you want, but my daughter-inw has to remain behind!¡± Second Old Mistress Shi dered.


    ¡°No way!¡± Old Mistress Zhou said coldly, ¡°I have to bring my daughter back with me. When your son is back, ask him toe and fetch her himself!¡±


    ¡°Going back will also be good!¡± Wang Shi chimed in, ¡°Sister-inw, Jingyi came here in a hurry today and didn¡¯t tidy up the things in her house so let her go back and apany Zhou Inw for a few more days. When Fengming is back, she¡¯ll naturally return!¡±


    Second Old Mistress Shi let out a sigh, ¡°Since my sister-inw has already spoken, what else can I say!¡± She got up and said indifferently, ¡°I am going back first, Older Sister Wang Shi! Fengju,e with me for a moment, I still have a few things to ask you!¡±


    Shi Fengju nced at Wang Shi. After bowing to Old Mistress Zhou to bid farewell, he left with Second Old Mistress Shi.


    Seeing the change on Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s expression which seemed like she was about to make a fuss, Wang Shi quickly smiled, ¡°My sister-inw has always been quick-tempered. She must be in a hurry to tell her husband about the news! Please have some pity for them as they have been worrying about their son for two years. Now that there is finally news, it¡¯ll surely put a smile on their faces! Zhou Inw, please don¡¯t be offended! How about staying in our household for a night? It won¡¯t be toote to go home tomorrow!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou¡¯s expression rxed a little. She shook her head and said, ¡°No need for that, your household must also be very busy! If we stay behind, we¡¯ll only be adding to your troubles! I hope that my son-inw can be brought back soon to ease the worry in my heart!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true! Zhou Inw, you are very right!¡± Wang Shi secretly heaved a huge sigh of relief after she heard from Old Mistress Zhou. Amodating an important guest really was difficult.


    In response, Nanny Jiang went to call out the three in the guest room. When the three came out, they bade farewell. Wang Shi only saw them off at the entrance of the main courtyard, and Sang Wan brought them all the way to the second gate after that.


    Before they boarded the carriage, Old Mistress Zhou suddenly smiled at Sang Wan, ¡°When my Jingyi returns here in the future, I will have to trouble Young Mistress Shi to take care of her! I¡¯ll give you my thanks first!¡±


    Sang Wan quickly stopped her and returned a smile, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, you are being too polite. Jingyi is my sister-inw, and we get along well, there¡¯s no need for words like that!¡±


    Old Mistress Zhou sighed and said, ¡°Other than being kind, my daughter is really useless and doesn¡¯t know anything. Ai! Young Mistress Shi, you have to give a few pointers to her in the future. I¡¯m being very sincere here. If she was half as capable as you, she wouldn¡¯t have ended up like how she is now¡­¡±


    ¡°Mother! What are you saying! We should go back now! Sister Sang Wan, you can go back now; you don¡¯t have to bother about us!¡± Zhou Jingyi was feeling extremely embarrassed.


    She was present when Sang Wan first entered the household, and she saw with her own eyes how Sang Wan was not weed by Shi Fengju. When she suddenly heard that the couple got along well, she was bewildered. But when her own mother was being so direct, won¡¯t she just be making things awkward for Sang Wan?


    Even though Old Mistress Zhou found her words inappropriate as well, but as a mother, she only had the best interest for her daughter. Regardless whether her words were inappropriate, she could not help herself and quickly apologized, ¡°Young Mistress Shi, please don¡¯t put what I said to heart! I am just feeling so sorry for my daughter, ai!¡±


    Sang Wan forced a smile, ¡°Old Mistress Zhou, you¡¯re thinking too much. Jingyi and I are inws, we¡¯ll get along even better in the future. Jingyi is very good, and I believe that when her husband returns, he will be able to see her good points too!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, I do hope your words are true!¡± Old Mistress Zhou smiled. After urging her daughter to board the carriage, they finally left the Shi household.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was heavy as she walked back. After reporting to Wang Shi that she had sent Old Mistress Zhou and her family back, she returned to Ning Garden1.


    At first, she thought that Shi Fengju would be back to see her before leaving the household after returning from the second family¡¯s ce, but he did not. In the evening, Zhan Huan brought back word that Shi Fengju was busy today and would be back slightlyter than usual.


    Sang Wan suddenly felt ill at ease. The sky had bepletely dark After waiting for more than an hour, the sky had bepletely dark but Shi Fengju was not back yet.


    ¡°Young Mistress, since Young Master will be homete, why don¡¯t you have dinner first? You shouldn¡¯t wait anymore lest you end up starving! And if you do, Young Master will be worried!¡± Nanny Li suggested after seeing the way she was.


    Sang Wan was a little absent-minded and nodded, ¡°I understand! I don¡¯t really have an appetite, so pick two dishes to ce on the table and leave the rest for Lord!¡± Then she asked what the soup of the day was. After hearing that it was pigeon soup, she ordered the servants to leave it on a small fire for Shi Fengju.


    Nanny Li knew she was being considerate to Shi Fengju and was happy, but she also felt sorry for her. With a smile, Nanny Li said, ¡°The soup was cooked for almost half a day, it will definitely taste delicious. Young Master won¡¯t be able to drink all of it! This old servant willdle a bowl for Young Mistress to kickstart your appetite.¡±


    Sang Wan did not want to refuse her goodwill and nodded.


    Shi Fengju still was not back after dinner. When it was almost time to sleep, he hurriedly returned home.


    Sang Wan had already let her hair loose and taken a shower. She tied her beautiful hair behind her head and put on a casual silk robe with white orchid embroidery. She went up to him andined, ¡°Why are you back sote? Won¡¯t the sune up again tomorrow? What¡¯s so important that you had to finish it today?¡±


    Shi Fengju held onto her hands and squeezed it hard as he smiled, ¡°I will tell youter, I¡¯m feeling a little hungry now!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly spoke, ¡°The dishes are being heated in the kitchen. How about having them in the chamber?¡±


    Shi Fengju had no objections. He ordered a servant to fetch some warm water to wash his face and an outer robe to change into.


    After dinner, Shi Fengju said to Sang Wan, ¡°I will be going somewhere far tomorrow. If it¡¯s fast, I will be gone for less than a month. If it¡¯s long, then I will be back in two months. You have to stay at home properly.¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s expression suddenly changed, ¡°Why do you have to travel all of a sudden!¡±


    Seeing her reaction, Shi Fengju was both happy and sad. He held her hands and said gently, ¡°I am going to Dezhou. Second Aunt and Second Uncle don¡¯t feel secure enough to let others go, so I will go there personally to ease their worries! We have to bring Second Brother back no matter what, but since he is still a master of this household, the servants won¡¯t be able to force him back if he doesn¡¯t want to! It is fortunate that the river is no longer frozen so I will take a fast fleet there and be back quickly! You have to stay at home and take care of Mother; stop everything else for now and wait for me toe back!¡±


    Sang Wan paused for a while as her mind was still nk. There was no way she could convince him not to go, so she nodded reluctantly, ¡°Then pleasee back quickly, and be careful out there! Oh right, does Mother know about this?¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head and smiled, ¡°After I left Second Uncle and Second Aunt¡¯s ce, I went to settle everything on the business side of things before rushing back. I¡¯ll let Mother know about it in a moment!¡±


    Sang Wan forced a smile and said, ¡°You go then, bute back early to rest. I will help you to pack everything you need for the trip.¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and nodded. He suddenly stretched his arms around her and pulled her into his embrace before lowering his head to peck her cheeks a few times. Then he said softly, ¡°Sang Wan, I don¡¯t feel this normally when I leave for work, but right now, I don¡¯t want to separate from you at all. Wait for me to return!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart felt a little empty too, and nodded as she conceded with a smile, ¡°Hurry up and go to your mother¡¯s ce. Remember toe back early to have a good rest!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled before letting go of her.


    When Wang Shi heard that he would be travelling for a month or two the next day, her expression darkened and said, ¡°Why are you in such a hurry? Finding someone is important, but that doesn¡¯t mean your body isn¡¯t! You won¡¯t even have enough time to pack your luggage tonight! I don¡¯t want to say this, but this is really unreasonable! She can be worried about her son, but that doesn¡¯t mean that she can bully someone else¡¯s son! You too, why do you have to listen to her!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°What difference does leaving early orte make? Sang Wan will help me to pack the things I need and I can purchase anything else I may need on the trip there! It isn¡¯t the first time I¡¯ve been somewhere far so I know what I must do! Second Aunt and Second Uncle miss their son a lot; if Second Brother can be found, it¡¯ll be good for everyone!¡±


    Wang Shi still felt indignant, andined a few more times. Knowing that her son was resolute and would not change his mind, she then reminded him a few times to remain safe. Shi Fengju did not mind her nagging and sat down by her side with a smile as he nodded his head.


    ¡°Enough, enough! I won¡¯t continue nagging at you since you are leaving in the morning tomorrow. Go back for a good rest because you¡¯ll have to rest on the boat tomorrow night, ai!¡± Wang Shi said, and could not help butin about Second Old Mistress Shi a few more times.


    Shi Fengju smiled and agreed, ¡°Mother, there¡¯s also another matter I wish to talk to you about. Cousin Fangzi will be back in a few more days¡­¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s eyes glimmered a little and she looked at him suspiciously, ¡°Right, she will be back after the ritual, I mean, where else can she go! Let¡¯s not talk about it now and wait after you¡¯re back!¡±


    Shi Fengju said, ¡°Mother, Sang Wan already tried to convince me, but I really don¡¯t want Cousin Fangzi as my concubine. I¡¯m sure Mother is already aware as well, so I will settle everything else when I¡¯m back. I¡¯ve already informed Sang Wan that during the days when I¡¯m not around, she will serve Mother well!¡±


    Wang Shi felt another wave of unhappiness and did not know what was wrong with her son, but at the moment, she knew it was not the time to talk about it and nodded unhappily, ¡°Then we¡¯ll wait for you toe back before we talk about this again!¡± She grunted and added while she looked at him, ¡°I may be old but I¡¯m no fool! I¡¯m also tired of you being hesitant! Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t eat up your wife when you aren¡¯t around! I will make sure she is well and waiting for you to be back!¡±

 Chapter 215 - Saying Goodbye

    <h4>Chapter 215: Saying Goodbye</h4>


    Shi Fengju had wanted his mother to help look after his wife, but it was not very nice to say it out as he was worried that it might get onto his mother¡¯s bad side. His mother had always been a little oblivious, but she was unusually alert this time. She could not help butment angrily with a smile, ¡°I think what your big sister told me has some truth in them. Just what did Sang Wan give you to make you so thoughtful of her!¡±


    Shi Fengju creased his eyebrows and said, ¡°Mother, why do you say that! I¡¯ve my reasons for respecting Sang Wan deeply. Sang Wan keeps the household well-organized, is filial to you, and took care of Big Sister to the best of her abilities. I have no idea what to say if you are unsatisfied with her!¡±


    Wang Shi nced at him once and sighed, ¡°I know she¡¯s good, but I don¡¯t wish to see my son preferring the new and casting away the old! Ai, forget it, forget it, we¡¯ll talk more about this when youe back! I actually feel that Fangzi and Sang Wan do get along well together, why do you insist on cutting your rtionship with Fangzi!¡±


    Shi Fengju said, ¡°Since Mother raised the topic first, then I have something else I wish to tell Mother. When I am not around, let Cousin Fangzi serve by your side, but don¡¯t let her intervene in anything else! Having someone around you will be able to distract you from your boredom!¡±


    Wang Shi felt a little unhappy after what he said and told him unwittingly, ¡°I know. I won¡¯t mistreat your wife, so go back and have a good rest! You don¡¯t have toe here tomorrow morning!¡±


    Shi Fengju got up and bowed three times to Wang Shi to bid farewell before leaving.


    At Ning Garden1, Sang Wan immediately ordered Zhide, Liu Ya, and Nanny Li to pack the things needed right after he left to inform Wang Shi. Everyone was shocked to know that their Young Master was going on a long trip the next morning. Seeing how dark the sky was, everyone made haste to pack. Nanny Li grumbled throughout, mostly about how he should not make rash arrangements.


    When Shi Fengju came back, he saw that the house was a mess. Nanny Li was grumbling as she packed, but she could not bear to scold him when she saw him. She sighed and said, ¡°This old servant will have a servant prepare the hot water now. Young Master, please take a bath first and have an early rest. This old servant and everyone else will have everything ready for tomorrow morning!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Nanny!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said, ¡°For the days that I won¡¯t be at home, I¡¯ll have to trouble Nanny to take care of Sang Wan. Don¡¯t let her stay indoors for too long and don¡¯t let her get too tired!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled and said, ¡°This doesn¡¯t need Young Master to say, this old servant knows what to do!¡±


    After Shi Fengju took a bath, he ordered a servant to call Sang Wan to rest.


    Nanny Li saw how Sang Wan seemed to want to refuse, and she quickly convinced her, ¡°Young Mistress should go and apany Young Master. This old servant here is enough to watch over this! I¡¯m sure Young Master wishes to speak with you too! Besides, you might end up waking him if you went back while he¡¯s asleep, and that won¡¯t be good!¡±


    Sang Wan, without a choice, could only nod and give some instructions before entering the chamber.


    Shi Fengju ced both hands on the back of his head as heid on the bed. The soft linen robe hung loosely on his body, leaving a fair bit of skin exposed.


    Upon seeing Sang Wan, he smiled at her and got up before gesturing to her, ¡°You know that I¡¯m leaving in the morning, so why didn¡¯t youe in earlier to apany me? I had to send someone to beckon you over! Come here quickly!¡±


    Sang Wan red at him for a while before going up to him, ¡°And whose fault was it? If I¡¯m not present to watch, some things may get left out and it won¡¯t be convenient for you! And since you¡¯ll be in a hurry, there might not be any time for you to purchase anything that¡¯s left out while you¡¯re on your way!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s heart warmed and he pulled her into his embrace. He hugged her tightly to feel the warmth of her body and lowered his head to say, ¡°I¡¯m not so particr about it. Besides, Nanny is a very conscientious person; she will take care of it well. Sang Wan, I will be away for very long, are you going to miss me, hm?¡±


    He used his rough finger to run across her cheek, chin, and neck gently. Her body weakened from the sensation and she leaned entirely against him. Raising her eyes, she whispered softly, ¡°I will.¡±


    Shi Fengju curled his lips and said roughly, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m suddenly regretting my decision. I shouldn¡¯t have promised Second Uncle and Second Aunt that I¡¯d go over there personally! Sang Wan, how am I supposed to get used to waking up tomorrow without you by my side!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s breathing turned to a mess as her heart beat faster. She grabbed his waist with her hands and puffed heavily, ¡°Even if you don¡¯t leave this time, don¡¯t you have to make a few trips each year? I will patiently wait for you here...¡±


    Shi Fengju was startled and he smiled. He kissed her hard on her fair face and said, ¡°You¡¯re right, I wasn¡¯t thinking clearly just now! Sang Wan, we are going to part for nearly two months so you¡¯ll have to obey me tonight...¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s body tightened and a surge of emotions suddenly gushed from deep within her. Her clear eyes opened slightly and she wrapped herself tightly around his body.


    Shi Fengju hummed and lowered his head to kiss her again.


    After a night of intimacy, they held each other and fell asleep. Shi Fengju held her even harder than usual as she stuck herself to him. There was a feeling of sadness in her and she rested in his embrace on a whim.


    When the day was finally bright again, Shi Fengju woke up. As he gradually opened his eyes, he saw his wife wrapping her arms around him. Her eyshes were lowered and her eyes were shut tight as she was still sound asleep. He subconsciously curled his lips into a smile. After sleeping together on the same bed for so long, this was the first time she was so dependent on him.


    Shi Fengju raised his hand to move her loose hair away from her face, and looked gently at her features. He could not bear to leave her, and he could not help but lower his head to kiss her lightly on her nose.


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyshes fluttered and she opened her eyes slightly to look at Shi Fengju in a daze.


    Shi Fengju was humored by her half-awake state and lightly let her go. He caressed her smooth shoulder and said gently, ¡°Rest a little while more, I have to get up now!¡±


    Seeing how Sang Wan wanted to get up, Shi Fengju pressed her down and smiled, ¡°Weren¡¯t youining about how tired you were yesterday? Why are you so energetic so early in the morning?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face reddened, and she gave him a re.


    Shi Fengju let out a lowugh and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to get up now. There¡¯s still a while more before the sky bes fully bright! I¡¯ll leave after washing my face; you don¡¯t have to see me off.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Sang Wan nodded and said while looking straight at him, ¡°Please take care while on your way!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head and pulled her nket for her. Turning around, he took the inner robe that hung at the front of the bed frame and wore it properly before getting off the bed to retrieve a blue outer robe. He looked back at her with a smile and walked away quietly.


    Gazing at his back and watching him take gentle steps, Sang Wan suddenly felt a strong sense of attachment. She called out to him, quickly pulling arge pink robe over herself and pushing away the nket, as she ran towards him barefooted. She hugged him tightly from behind and left no gap between them.


    ¡°Fengju... You have toe back quickly...¡± Sang Wan¡¯s nose was suddenly sour. Without her knowing, she was feeling sad about him leaving. The longing she felt was very sudden and itpletely controlled her thoughts. She only knew that if she missed this moment, she did not know when the next time would be.


    Shi Fengju was stunned. There were lots of emotions churning inside him. Her body was soft and gentle. His blood instantly boiled as her warmth wrapped around him; only he knew how smooth her skin was!


    Shi Fengju wanted to turn and pull her into his embrace, but he could not bear to break the wonderful feeling of her body being close to his, so he raised his hands to hold her hands tightly, and he said with a low voice, ¡°I promise you that I wille back quickly. Be good now and go back to sleep!¡±


    Sang Wan rested her head against his back and shook her head. Her hands only became tighter around his waist, almost as if she would never be able to hold him again if she let go.


    ¡°Sang Wan...¡± She had never acted like a spoiled child, not wanting to part with him. Shi Fengju heart ached, yet he was happy and he could not help but feel dismayed. This bad woman, why was she only like this at this moment? If it were any other day, he would not hesitate to take a day off from work to apany her.


    But right now, he could not!


    Shi Fengju let out a sigh and shook his head. He lowered his head and saw her smooth and fair arms wrapped around his waist. He froze, only realizing that she wore a thin robe and ran after him. The wide sleeves slid back and exposed half her arms.


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju turned around and lifted her with her legs before carrying her quickly to the bed. He covered her with the nket before creasing his brows together, ¡°The day is still cold, it won¡¯t be good if you catch a cold! Remember to have the small kitchen boil a bowl of hot ginseng soup for youter. I have to leave now, be good!¡±


    ¡°Fengju!¡± Sang Wan pushed away the nket and wrapped her arms around his neck as she gazed at him with her watery eyes. Shi Fengju was taken aback as the red lips closed in to touch his cold lips and give him a kiss.


    Shi Fengju remained still and his breathing became rapid. Before he could press her down onto the bed, she had already turned over and pinned him down.


    Shi Fengju widened his eyes as he looked dumbfounded at the girl on top of him with an oversized pink robe hung loosely around her and her corbone half exposed. He could smell the fragrance from her raven-ck hair that was slightly disheveled and hung down to her chest while a few strands teased his face.


    ¡°Sang Wan...¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s throat tightened. His eyes suddenly glimmered and he looked straight at her.


    ¡°Sang Wan, what are you...¡± Shi Fengju gritted his teeth as he inhaled sharply and tried to switch their positions. However, a series of knocks came from the outside and Nanny Li¡¯s hoarse voice could be heard from outside, ¡°Young Master, it¡¯s almost time! Are you up yet?¡±


    The two stiffened and remained still.


    As his desire slowly subsided, Shi Fengju turned and sat up. He hugged Sang Wan andid her properly on the bed before covering her with the nket again. With a smile, he bent forward slightly, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ll owe me this. Remember that. When I¡¯m back, you have to return me with interest.¡±


    The flush on Sang Wan¡¯s face did not subside, and her eyes were bright and watery. Her lips opened to inhale heavily and no words left her mouth.


    Shi Fengju let out a soft sigh and lowered his head to kiss her before finally getting up and left.


    After the door opened and closed, the room suddenly became quiet as if nothing had happened just then. Sang Wan raised her hands to touch her own face, and she felt the heat on her cheeks.


    Recalling how daring she was, she suddenly felt ashamed and had a sense of uncertainty. Worried that he would be mocking her, she gave a self-deprecatingugh and thought that she must have really been possessed to have done so without thinking.


    ¡°Young Master, the luggage has been passed to Zhan Huan. This old servant has already ordered him to take care of it. However, because the outside is different from here, you should take care of yourself. And remember not to let that servant take a break! Even though spring is here, this boat you¡¯re taking goes north. I¡¯m afraid it will only get colder as you go northwards. Old Mistress, Young Mistress, and this old servant will miss you dearly! Once you¡¯ve found Second Young Master, please return quickly. If this piece of news isn¡¯t true, arrange for the shopkeepers and servants there to look into it beforeing back quickly. Outside will not be asfortable as at home, and everything there from your lodgings to food is done shabbily, how can it be better than the household!¡± Nanny Li nagged incessantly.


    Shi Fengju rinsed his mouth and groomed himself as he agreed. Once everything was ready, Liu Ya served arge bowl of chicken soup with noodles. Nanny Li pulled Shi Fengju to the table and passed a pair of chopsticks to him, ¡°Young Master, quickly have a seat and eat! The horse carriage has been prepared, you can go as soon as you finish eating. You mustn¡¯t tarry!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and took the chopsticks before finishing his food quickly. After he rinsed his mouth again, he drank two mouths of warm tea while Zhide came with a thin cloak to put around him. Liu Ya kneeled in front of him to help him change into a thick pair of shoes.


    After which, Nanny Li and the rest sent him to the gate. Other than Nanny Li, Shi Fengju signalled everyone else to leave before saying to her, ¡°Nanny, when I¡¯m not around, please take good care of Sang Wan for me. If she goes through any injustice, you¡¯ve to urge her to hold herself back, and wait for me to return to help her.¡±


    Nanny Li was ted when she heard him. She quickly nodded and smiled, ¡°That is natural, there¡¯s no need for Young Master to tell me to! Ai, but really, there is only one person in this household who can cause Young Mistress to suffer from injustice. Even so, Young Mistress cannot do anything to retaliate at all, I think it will be difficult for Young Master to handle even if you are back!¡±


    Shi Fengju knew that she was referring to Gu Fangzi, and he said, ¡°It¡¯s fine if Cousin Fangzi remains docile and honest, but if she does anything overboard to Sang Wan, you and Sang Wan mustn¡¯t get into a conflict with her. Otherwise, my mother¡¯s face will not look good. Just wait for me to return and I will do something about it! Sang Wan is my wife, of course she¡¯s more important than anyone else!¡±


    ¡°With your words, this old servant isn¡¯t worried anymore!¡± Nanny Li was suddenly jubnt. As to Shi Fengju¡¯s sudden change of attitude towards Gu Fangzi, Nanny Li was unconcerned. From her perspective, her Young Master was no longer blinded and it was best if he could remain this way!


    Nanny Li sighed and said, ¡°For the days you aren¡¯t here, this old servant will look after Young Mistress carefully and improve her health. It¡¯s been quite some time since Young Mistress was married. If she has your flesh and blood, then there will be less trouble in the household!¡±


    Shi Fengju was stunned momentarily, and he nodded with a smile, ¡°Yes, you are right! It¡¯ll be better to answer to my mother if I¡¯ve a son!¡± After they became intimate, they were loving each other everyday. Of course, Shi Fengju was enjoying himself and did not think about children. But after Nanny Li¡¯s reminder, he was suddenly concerned. He waste in getting married, and it should be about time to have kids. Now that his heart only had Sang Wan, he longed for her to be pregnant with his child. At the thought of a child, his heart unknowingly became happy.


    ¡°Listen to what you are saying! What answering! The eldest son from the First family should be from Young Mistress,¡± Nanny Li smiled.


    Shi Fengju smiled as well and gave a few more instructions to Nanny Li before he left in a hurry.


    After Shi Fengju left the house, everywhere else was fine except for Ning Garden and Wang Shi¡¯s ce. When Sang Wan went to greet Wang Shi in the morning, both of them were not in the right mental state and Wang Shi sent her back after a few words.


    Sure enough, Nanny Li busied herself and went out that day. Who knew where she got arge bag of herbs from, and let Sang Wan have a look while she exined to her in detail. The herbs were from the best physician in the city. Drinking it once in the morning and once at night everyday would increase the chance of a woman getting pregnant.


    Listening to Nanny Li, Sang Wan was stunned just like Shi Fengju. Although she knew that it would be best if she could have a son, she had never given it much thought.


    Having children, a matter that seemed so far away was suddenly brought right in front of her.


    Counting the days they were officially together, it had been a few months already.


    While Sang Wan remained quiet, Nanny Li thought that she was being shy and smiled, ¡°Young Mistress, having children is important, there¡¯s nothing to be shy about! Right now, Young Master treasures you a lot so you have to take this chance to get pregnant! The best is if you can have two children in three years! If not that vixen will not rest! If you have three or four sons, that vixen won¡¯t be able to overtake you even if she used every means she has!¡±


    Sang Wan remained stunned and stared nkly at Nanny Li. Her lips moved but she did not speak.


    Three or four sons? Sang Wan felt tired just thinking about it. She would already be satisfied with just a son and a daughter. Just the thought of having three or four sons was already stressful for her.


    Nanny Li seemed to have seen through her thoughts and said firmly, ¡°Three or four isn¡¯t too many at all! Just look at Old Mistress, she has two sons and one daughter, doesn¡¯t she? To go against that vixen, having many children will be good! Who doesn¡¯t dote on their grandson and granddaughter? If you have many children, then you will be regarded highly in the family. Old Mistress will definitely dote on you more! Listen to this old servant and you won¡¯t go wrong! For the rest of the days when Young Master isn¡¯t around, you have to take good care of your health so that you can get pregnant when hees back!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face heated up and she forced an awkward smile.


    Since Sang Wan did not refuse, Nanny Li immediately perked up and smiled energetically, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, this old servant is best at these! Tonight, I will boil a bowl for you!¡±


    That night before Sang Wan went to sleep, Nanny Li really boiled arge bowl of ck and smelly medicinal soup.


    The strong smell was overpowering and Sang Wan subconsciously covered her mouth to stop herself from breathing.


    ¡°Young Mistress, herbal medicines are all like this, but you mustn¡¯t look down on them. Drink it while it¡¯s hot! You will get used to it after awhile!¡± Nanny Li consoled her and brought therge porcin bowl to Sang Wan for her to drink.


    Sang Wan turned her body slowly and stared at the liquid inside. She creased her eyebrows and drank it all in one breath under the hopeful eyes of Nanny Li.


    Satisfied, Nanny Li took the empty bowl from her and Liu Ya passed a cup of water to her. Sang Wan quickly rinsed her mouth to clear away the taste still lingering inside. Nanny Li smiled and said, ¡°You might not be used to drinking it for the first time, but after a while, you will be!¡±


    Sang Wan panted for air and raised her handkerchief to wipe her mouth before she smiled bitterly, ¡°Nanny, could you make a little less next time? Thisrge bowl is too much!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled and agreed. She quickly ordered the people to help Sang Wan wash her face and prepare her for bed.


    Once the doors were closed and the curtains were put down, Sang Wan subconsciously looked to her side after wrapping herself with the nket and she smiled bitterly.


    He was only gone for a day and she could not help but think of him already. Who knew where he was now? Was he going to sleep now too? Was he thinking of her too? This was the first time she felt that the bed was so wide without him. She never had this empty feeling in the past when he slept on the mattress while she slept on the bed. But now, the cool feeling of loneliness was slowly spreading in her heart.


    Sang Wan sighed soundlessly. It was indeed scary to get used to things. When they first started, she was not used to falling asleep in his embrace, but was afraid of disobeying him. Every so often, he would lock her in his embrace until the next morning, but who knew she¡¯d be so ustomed to it in the end. At present, he would stretch his arms out in bed every night and she would take the initiative toy in his embrace. Now that he was not here, she felt like she had no one to depend on all of a sudden, and she could not sleep soundly.


    At the thought of the next day when Gu Fangzi would finally return from the temple, Sang Wan¡¯s hands tightened. s, what ising, wille.


    Sang Wan tossed and turned that night. The next day, she felt very lethargic. After having breakfast and grooming herself, she left to greet Wang Shi. Wang Shi inquired if a horse carriage was sent to pick Gu Fangzi up and Sang Wan nodded. Wang Shi gave a satisfied smile and started to hint at them living harmoniously as sisters, which made Sang Wan feel ufortable and agitated inside.


    Before noon, Gu Fangzi returned.

 Chapter 216 - Gu Fangzi Has Returned

    <h4>Chapter 216: Gu Fangzi Has Returned</h4>


    Once she was back in Peony Park2, she got changed and tidied her hair properly. Herplete makeover made her seem like she had been reborn. She was prettier than before now that she was in an elegant pale yellow robe and had some light makeup on her face.


    Gu Fangzi packed up and went to greet Wang Shi. Wang Shi was delighted and made her stay for lunch.


    Even though the mourning period had ended, Gu Fangzi still went for the dishes with only vegetables. Seeing that, Wang Shi¡¯s heart ached and she ordered the servants to bring in a bowl of ham and bamboo shoots simmered in chicken broth for her. Wang Shi smiled gently and said, ¡°Have more of the good food to replenish your body. How do you expect your body to grow if you only eat vegetables? You might end up spoiling your body! Things have already passed, so don¡¯t think about them anymore. We should always be looking ahead!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang, thank you for caring about me!¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes reddened and she gently tugged Wang Shi¡¯s sleeves before she said intimately and dependently, ¡°I only have one elder in this world and that is Aunt Wang! I hope that Aunt Wang can live a long life that is full of blessings so that I can continue to be filial to repay your kindness.¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang knows you¡¯re kind-hearted! Hehe, I¡¯m always here if you need anything!¡± Wang Shi was touched and patted Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand before she hurried her to drink the soup before it turned cold.


    Gu Fangzi smiled brightly, and drank the soup obediently. After resting for a while and chatting with Wang Shi, Gu Fangzi smiled and said, ¡°Aunt Wang, since I¡¯m now back from the temple, shouldn¡¯t the things in Peony Park be restored? Otherwise, it looks very ominous! But since everything is now in the storehouse, putting them back will take at least two to three days. I was thinking that maybe I could rest at an inn first! During those days, I¡¯lle visit Aunt Wang to have my meals, I hope Aunt Wang won¡¯t find me annoying!¡±


    Wang Shiughed and said, ¡°Why would I find you annoying! When you were young, you had all your meals together with me! You are right about the restoration to give it a new ambiance from what it now is. Not just inside the house, but the garden should also be tidied and nted with new flowers. Now¡¯s the right season to do so too! I think there¡¯s also no need for you to stay in the guest house. You can just rest at my ce at night! It¡¯ll save you the trouble!¡±


    Gu Fangzi had that thought as well, which was why she purposely guided Wang Shi into saying that. Delighted when she heard Wang Shi, she smiled, ¡°If Aunt Wang doesn¡¯t find me annoying, then I¡¯ll dly ept your offer!¡±


    ¡°There you go again!¡± Wang Shi smiled and chided. While gazing at each other, they burst intoughter.


    When Wang Shi was taking her afternoon nap, Gu Fangzi brought along Lan Xiang to Ning Garden1.


    Nanny Li¡¯s face immediately darkened when she heard that Gu Fangzi wasing and she sneered coldly, ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯s here to make trouble! If she was already back, then she should have visited Young Mistress right after visiting Old Mistress. Coming here at this hour, she¡¯s clearly trying to disy her might! This old servant suggests leaving her outside for an hour before letting her in. That¡¯ll show her who¡¯s the young mistress here. Otherwise, she would only have her eyes on her head!¡± With that, Nanny Li instructed Zhide to tell Gu Fangzi that their young mistress was not free and have her wait outside!


    ¡°Forget it, just let her in!¡± Sang Wan shook her head, and gave a slight smile to Nanny Li, ¡°Even though she never came, she has been apanying Mother all the while. Isn¡¯t she just being filial? Could I have argued with Mother about it? If I don¡¯t let her in, who knows what she would say! When that happens, Mother won¡¯t be too happy either! Just let her in and I¡¯ll entertain her for a while. It¡¯ll soon be over!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled in spite of herself and said, ¡°Young Mistress has thought it through clearly. Forgive this old servant for being blinded by rage!¡±


    Zhide finally left to pass down the message.


    Gu Fangzi and Lan Xiang waited outside for quite some time. Seeing that no one came out to receive them, Lan Xiang became a little worried and she whispered to Gu Fangzi, ¡°Missy, do you think Young Mistress is angry and purposely trying to embarrass you here?¡±


    Gu Fangziughed coldly and said, ¡°That¡¯ll be even better! She¡¯s the wife after all, it¡¯s only proper for her to do so!¡±


    But before she could finish, Zhide could already be seen from afar. She headed towards them hurriedly and invited them in with a smile. Gu Fangzi nodded and followed behind Zhide.


    On careful thought, it had been quite some time since shest came to Ning Garden. Looking at this familiar yet somewhat unfamiliar ce, Gu Fangzi was suddenly in a daze. There were many roses along the corridors, around the well, on the ground, and in the pots. They were all blooming with bright colors of red, yellow, and orange. There were especially many red roses, and all the roses were blooming to their fullest as they swayed with the wind. The sight in itself was extremely pleasing to the eyes.


    Gu Fangzi stopped in her steps shortly after and she asked Zhide with a smile, ¡°When were all these roses here? Ning Garden looks so vibrant now!¡±


    Zhide smiled gently and she replied, ¡°To answer Miss Gu, they were here before the new year. Because Young Mistress liked them, Young Master purposely brought them from everywhere he knew. You should¡¯ve seen them during the new year, there were more of them then! The entire house was decorated with many pots of roses that there was a strong and sweet fragrance.¡±


    The smile on Gu Fangzi¡¯s face froze as she acknowledged ufortably. The bitterness that was spreading in her heart felt like an invisible hand grasping onto her heart. Oh why did she ask? She really deserved it!


    Gu Fangzi suppressed the bitterness in her heart, and entered the house calmly. After entering the warm room, she bowed to Sang Wan and said, ¡°My greetings to Sister Sang Wan! I should havee earlier, but I was apanying Aunt Wang and spoke too much with her. Aunt Wang also invited me to join her for lunch, which was why I came at this hour! I hurried here soon after leaving her ce because I was worried that you might be unhappy! I hope that Sister Sang Wan won¡¯t me me!¡±


    ¡°Why would I me you for such a small matter? Mother is fond of you, so you should apany her more. That is the same as helping me and my lord in doing our duties. I can only be grateful to you!¡± Sang Wan smiled lightly.


    Gu Fangzi felt extremely ufortable when she heard Sang Wan, and she smiled, ¡°I¡¯m d that you don¡¯t me me for it! I am indebted to Aunt Wang so it is only natural for me to be filial to her! I won¡¯t dare to receive Sister Sang Wan¡¯s thanks!¡±


    Sang Wan did not rebut and smiled, ¡°Since your mourning period is over, Peony Park should be decorated again. Everyone has different preferences, and thus the help that I can provide you is limited. I have other things to worry about in the household as well, so I¡¯ll have to trouble you for most of the restoration! The things that belong to you are still in the storehouse. I¡¯ve already passed the list of items to you, so assign a few servants to move your things from the storehouse. I will assign Nanny Li to help you. After all, she was the one who helped you clean up your ce. Sister Fangzi, what do you think?


    Since Sang Wan had already made herself clear, what can Gu Fangzi do? She could not possibly request Sang Wan to help her personally to restore the ce. She could let that go, but Sang Wan even assigned Nanny Li to monitor her. Gu Fangzi was secretly infuriated.


    But before she could speak, Nanny Li bowed to Sang Wan and said, ¡°Young Mistress, you don¡¯t have to worry, this old servant will do my best to arrange everything properly and not trouble Miss Gu at all! Even though this old servant is old, I am not senile. I may sound like I¡¯m bragging, but even Young Mistress cannot find any faults to pick on for everything that I was assigned with!¡±


    ¡°That is only natural,¡± Sang Wan smiled and looked at Gu Fangzi, ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Gu Fangzi smiled gratefully, ¡°Since Nanny is doing it personally for me, I really cannot ask for more, so why would I suggest otherwise? Oh right. Before I forget, Aunt Wang has let me stay at her ce for a few days because it¡¯ll be inconvenient to stay in Peony Park when it isn¡¯t ready yet. It might be inconvenient for me to give my greetings to Sister Sang Wan then, so please forgive me!¡±


    Nanny Li creased her brow slightly. She was feeling both angry and startled. Who¡¯d have thought that Gu Fangzi would fawn over Wang Shi immediately after she returned today?


    Sang Wan remained unperturbed about it. Her mother-inw had nagged countless times about how to treat Gu Fangzi as her ¡®sister¡¯. Wang Shi had always shown favoritism towards Gu Fangzi, so it was not a big deal for her to stay with Wang Shi. Sang Wan calmly responded before seeing Gu Fangzi off.


    ¡°What a shameless vixen!¡± Nanny Li spat as she watched the back of Gu Fangzi, ¡°When Young Master isn¡¯t around, she¡¯s sparing no effort to bring Old Mistress to her side!¡±


    ¡°Nanny,¡± Sang Wan smiled and sighed, ¡°Please don¡¯t be angry, it isn¡¯t worth getting angry because of this! Mother dotes on her a lot in the first ce, and Peony Parks needs to be restored. Letting her stay for a few days isn¡¯t much to make a fuss about!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by not much!¡± Nanny Li said anxiously, ¡°The servants are looking! Young Mistress, just think about it. She was asked to stay and eat with Old Mistress as soon as she¡¯s back, isn¡¯t that the same as being favored in the eyes of the servants? Those who don¡¯t know may misjudge the situation and think that you¡¯ve lost your ce! She has always been wily, and it isn¡¯t as if she¡¯s someone without a history in our Shi family. Who knows what she¡¯ll do again!¡±


    Sang Wan did not think about it that way at first. She froze after hearing what Nanny Li had to say.


    Nanny Li saw how she reacted and regretted causing her distress. She quickly smiled and said, ¡°This old servant is only expressing my thoughts. The situation may not be as dire as what I¡¯ve said! But we can tell that she¡¯s not a simple person to deal with. We¡¯ll need to keep alert and guard against her! You mustn¡¯t put what I¡¯ve said to heart and focus on taking care of your body instead! For everything else, just let this old servant, Zhide, and Liu Ya handle them!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart softened and she smiled appreciatively, ¡°Nanny treats me the best!¡±


    Nanny Li smiled and said, ¡°Young Master mentioned to take good care of Young Mistress! This old servant remembers very well!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes dimmed but she forced a smile. Who knew where he was now?


    Nanny Li regretted her words again. Mentioning Shi Fengju only raised the load on her young mistress¡¯s mind, so she quickly changed her attention to something else.


    As for the restoration of Peony Pavilion, Gu Fangzi did not cause much trouble and instead went to inspect it once every day. After making sure that all her belongings were ounted for, she let Nanny Li decide everything else. Even though Gu Fangzi remained reluctant, she was clear about the numerous times her cousin had reminded her to remember her ce. Since he wanted her to always take that to heart, then she would so that no one could fault her when he was finally back.


    Nanny Li kept her guard up, but she was perturbed seeing the way Gu Fangzi was behaving.


    However, something neither big nor small happened in the household while the restoration was ongoing.


    It started with Gu Fangzi apanying Wang Shi when they unknowingly started talking about cone puffs. It was one of Wang Shi¡¯s favorite desserts, but because it required a lot of effort to make, it was not a dessert she would often ask for. However, when Gu Fangzi evoked her craving today, she could not help butin a little. Gu Fangzi smiled and said, ¡°Aunt Wang seldom asks for something that you want. If you want to eat it, then you should order the kitchen to make it. And maybe I¡¯ll get to enjoy it because of Aunt Wang too!¡±

 Chapter 217 - Crisis

    <h4>Chapter 217: Crisis</h4>


    After Wang Shi heard her, she was delighted and joked with Gu Fangzi, ¡°You little devil, how smart of you. I think you miss it more than me even though you¡¯re trying to act benevolent!¡±


    This caused all the servants tough. Gu Fangzi alsoughed before calling for everyone to stop, ¡°Aunt Wang has wronged me! I know you like it a lot, which is why I suggested it! I¡¯m sure Aunt Wang¡¯s pte has been piqued, so why don¡¯t I take the initiative to be filial?¡± Without waiting for Wang Shi to reply, she called Lan Xiang and told her to inform the kitchen.


    Lan Xiang epted and left. She was already briefed by Gu Fangzi on what to do, so she naturally knew what to say. When she entered the kitchen, she did not mention Wang Shi at all. She simply said that her missy wished to have some cone puffs and she would return to collect them once they were made. As for the cost, Lan Xiang told the kitchen staff to put it on her missy¡¯s ount.


    How would the kitchen staff know that they would be for the Old Mistress to enjoy? When she heard that the request came from Gu Fangzi, she became somewhatzy. When she saw how Lan Xiang was ordering her about instead of asking politely, she felt even more unhappy, and said in an unfriendly tone, ¡°Lan Xiang, cone puffs are very troublesome to make and I¡¯m not free either. Tell her to wait and ask a few dayster!¡±


    Who knew that before she could finish, Lan Xiang had already ran off. No one knew if she had actually heard them.


    The kitchen staff did not think much about it and quickly put it to the back of her mind and began doing something else.


    After Gu Fangzi went into a mourning period, she was treated very coldly and Shi Fengju did not visit her even once. Instead, he was always around Sang Wan who was now in-charge of managing the household. Which servant¡¯s heart was not clear and would put the instructions of an insignificant concubine to heart?


    The oue after that was as expected, with Wang Shi infuriated. She was the old mistress, yet she could not even have a dessert that was a little harder to make! She immediately called over the kitchen staff that was on duty and scolded her. At one side stood Gu Fangzi, who apologized profusely but continued to fan the mes of anger. That only made Wang Shi angrier.


    When the kitchen servant realized that it was Wang Shi who wanted to eat the cone puffs, she could not help but scold Lan Xiang in her heart. However, she did not dare to push the me onto Lan Xiang who did not exin clearly. If she did, who knew if there would be a greater punishment waiting for her! Without a choice, she kowtowed and begged for mercy, and could only insist that she was busy and forgot. She quickly reassured Wang Shi that the cone puffs would be made the next day before begging her for mercy again.


    This incident shocked Sang Wan too and she quickly went to inquire about it.


    Wang Shi was furious and had nowhere to vent. Upon seeing Sang Wan, sheughed coldly and snorted, ¡°Well done, you¡¯ve done a good job in managing the household. Everyone knows their house rules very well. I have to wait until this kitchen staff is free before I can enjoy my dessert! I see that you have taught them well!¡±


    Sang Wan was so shocked that she immediately kneeled. She raised her head and eximed, ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t say that! I¡¯ve always done my best to serve you and have never been careless. Mother, please check again! Maybe Auntie Xu had heard wrong. Mother, please don¡¯t be angry anymore. I¡¯ll have her make your favorite dessert immediately tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°No need!¡± Wang Shiughed coldly, ¡°I don¡¯t have the desire to eat it anymore! Isn¡¯t it just dessert? I¡¯m fine not eating it. After all, I don¡¯t wish to dy the more important matters that others have to do!¡±


    When Auntie Xu heard Wang Shi, her heart pounded even faster and she kowtowed repeatedly to ask for mercy.


    ¡°What is Mother saying? I¡¯m the one who did not do a good job in disciplining them which caused something like this to happen! Before Lord left, he reminded me to serve you well, and to let you live afortable and carefree life. Who knew that this would happen just a few days after he left! I am ashamed! Mother, if you say anymore, I will be too ashamed to show my face anymore! You are the Old Mistress of the household, who would dare to disrespect you unless they do not cherish their lives! I¡¯m sure there must be some misunderstanding somewhere. Mother, if you get angry because of a misunderstanding, not only will you feel very upset, even I will feel unhappy! So Mother, please don¡¯t be angry anymore, please?¡± Sang Wan begged desperately again.


    Wang Shi finally came to a realization and thought: That¡¯s right, Sang Wan has always been filial. And as the Old Mistress in the household, other than the ancestors ced in the altar, who holds a higher position than me? If that¡¯s the case, then which servant would dare to be insolent towards me? There must be some misunderstanding indeed.


    Nanny Li noticed the change in Wang Shi¡¯s expression and she quickly went forward with a smile, ¡°Yes, Old Mistress, Young Mistress isn¡¯t wrong! The kitchen staff might have overlooked the request since the person passing it on wasn¡¯t someone serving you but Lan Xiang, so this incident cannotpletely be the kitchen¡¯s fault! Who knew how Lan Xiang passed the request, and whether she made it clear!¡±


    Right after Nanny Li finished, Auntie Xu seemed to have found her hope and she quickly added, ¡°Lan Xiang only told me to make the cone puffs quickly and did not mention Old Mistress at all! At that time, this old servant still had matters to finish, so I said that I would do it the next day. Who knew¡­¡±


    Auntie Xu was a quick-witted person. In a split moment, she had changed what was originally ¡®a few dayster¡¯ to ¡®the next day¡¯. Lan Xiang could only suppress her anger at one side as she red at Auntie Xu. However, it would not do her good to refute. After all, she ran off after she had passed down the request and told Wang Shi and Gu Fangzi that she had done as tasked. Wang Shi would naturally assume that the instructions passed down would be clear and the cone pastries would be made. Who knew that Auntie Xu would say that? After matching the confessions, it was now Lan Xiang¡¯s fault for not rying information properly. If she had ryed the message properly to Wang Shi that the kitchen would make the pastry tomorrow, Wang Shi would not have be so furious.


    ¡°Auntie Xu, you don¡¯t have to say anymore,¡± Gu Fangzi lightly cut Auntie Xu off and nodded her head gently as she apologized, ¡°This was all my fault. I did not think it thoroughly enough! I should¡¯ve known that I¡¯m only a guest and my words carry no weight. In that case, I should have told Lan Xiang to pass the request and make it clear that they¡¯re for Aunt Wang. That way, there wouldn¡¯t have been such a misunderstanding!¡±


    This implied that the kitchen staff did not respect her.


    Auntie Xu¡¯s expression changed slightly. Before she could refute, Nanny Li answered calmly, ¡°Miss Gu is right that if Lan Xiang had ryed the message well, then there would not be this misunderstanding! The kitchen was really busy yesterday, which I hope Miss Gu did not forget. The kitchen had to prepare the offerings for the ancestors, as well as for your father, yesterday. They were as busy as bees so I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything wrong with the fact that Sister Xu can only make the pastry tomorrow.¡±


    Wang Shi almost became furious again after hearing Gu Fangzi¡¯¡¯s words, but after hearing Nanny Li¡¯s words, her anger dissipated again. Whenever Shi Fengju travelled somewhere far, the household would prepare offerings for their ancestors and gods to bless Shi Fengju with a safe and smooth travel. This was a tradition that Wang Shi had personally started many years ago.


    Her son¡¯s safety was naturally more important than satisfying her cravings. After all, how could they neglect the divine beings?


    Without a choice, Lan Xiang quickly kneeled with her head lowered, ¡°This maidservant, this maidservant was in a rush to report back to Old Mistress and Missy, and did not hear what Auntie Xu saidter on¡­¡±


    ¡°Then this is just a misunderstanding, Old Mistress! Tomorrow, Sister Xu will make the pastry for you to have. It isn¡¯t worth getting angry over this!¡± Nanny Li smiled and said.


    Auntie Xu kowtowed a few times in response.


    Wang Shi waved her hand and said with eyebrows slightly creased, ¡°Forget it, forget it! I¡¯ve already lost my desire to have it so you don¡¯t have to make it tomorrow. Stand up now. Sang Wan, you get up too! Next time, all of you have to do your work more carefully! Don¡¯t do things so haphazardly and create so much trouble!¡±


    Everyone quickly acknowledged it. Nanny Li then went forward to help Sang Wan up.Gu Fangzi stepped forward as well to help Sang Wan up together with Nanny Li. She smiled apologetically, ¡°This is all my fault. Because Lan Xiang, thatss, was disorganized, she caused Sister Sang Wan to suffer! When I go back, I will definitely teach her a lesson! Sister Sang Wan is in-charge of many things in the household, it isn¡¯t a surprise if you were to overlook a thing or two. Really, Sister Sang Wan, you¡¯ve worked hard! Yet I¡¯ve only ended up giving more trouble to you, and I feel really bad about it. I hope you¡¯ll extend your generosity and forgive me this time. I hereby apologize to you!¡±


    After she finished, she took two steps back and bowed.


    Sang Wan could not help but to feel a surge of anger rising within her, but she smiled faintly, ¡°Sister Fangzi, you are being too formal. What¡¯s there to feel wronged by over a small misunderstanding! Instead, it implicated Mother and spoilt her mood. That itself is due to my negligence!¡± Sang Wan looked towards Wang Shi and smiled, ¡°Mother, thank you for being a benevolent person. Please forgive your daughter-inw this time!¡±


    Wang Shi could not help but smile with a sigh, ¡°Enough, enough, let¡¯s not talk about this anymore! It is true that you would have overlooked some things given therge amount of work in the household. Mother only said those words because I was angry at that moment, so don¡¯t take it to heart! Next time, you should be stricter towards the servants to prevent them from bing careless when they be toofortable! Furthermore, Fangzi is also one of the masters in this household, her words also carry weight. If anyone dares to take her lightly, I will not be happy if I knew about it!¡±


    Wang Shi initially wanted to suggest letting Gu Fangzi share some of the burden Sang Wan carried in the household, but she suddenly recalled what her son had said to her before he left home. He was clearly unwilling to let Gu Fangzi be involved in the household matters. When the words were at her mouth, she quickly swallowed them back.


    Sang Wan and Nanny Li secretly heaved a sigh of relief. Sang Wan responded respectfully and left with Nanny Li, bringing Auntie Xu along with her.


    If Wang Shi took away some of her power and gave it to Gu Fangzi under this circumstance, who knew how others might think of the household. Still, even if she did not give Gu Fangzi any power, herst sentence had granted her protection.


    Gu Fangzi quickly returned to coaxing Wang Shi and made herugh to turn her mood for the better. However, Gu Fangzi was secretly very unhappy. Her initial n was to sway Wang Shi with her words to let her be involved in managing the household. While Shi Fengju wasn¡¯t around, there would be no one else who knew the household better than she did. When that happened, she would be able to meddle covertly and make Sang Wan suffer in silence. When she ended up losing Wang Shi¡¯s affection, even if Shi Fengju were back, the oue would be set!


    Who would¡¯ve known that Wang Shi would hold in her words and not say what she wanted. She had spent so much effort to obtain such an opportunity, but it seemed that her effort had gone to waste again.


    Luckily, Wang Shi was still backing her and had granted her protection. From now on, no one would dare to disrespect her, which was better than nothing.


    After staying at Wang Shi¡¯s ce for four days, Gu Fangzi finally returned to Peony Park2. In order to express her gratitude to Nanny Li for her hard work, she intentionally asked Lan Xiang to reward Nanny Li with some quality fabric and money. Nanny Li was taken aback and thought that the sun had risen from the west!

 Chapter 218 - Incoming Letters

    <h4>Chapter 218: Iing Letters</h4>


    A servant naturally had to ept a master¡¯s reward so Nanny Li epted it. She was left with no choice but to go to the Peony Park2 to give her thanks in person. Gu Fangzi received her with a smile that was out of the norm and greeted her. Nanny Li got goosebumps from her greeting as it sounded as if they were close.


    Gu Fangzi even wanted to keep Nanny Li to have a meal together but Nanny Li imed she was busy and left in a hurry.


    After pondering, Nanny Li came to feel that Gu Fangzi was solicitous in hiding her ill intentions. She mulled over for a long time and pped her thigh upon realization. She couldn¡¯t help but clench her teeth silently: That wretch must¡¯ve done so deliberately for Ma¡¯am to see so that she would throw suspicions on her!


    Nanny Li could no longer sit still and she immediately took the reward that Gu Fangzi had given her and paid a visit to Sang Wan. She sent everyone around her away before saying, ¡°Young Mistress, this is what Miss Gu has rewarded me. She said that it is a reward for my hard work helping her put her house in order! However, that is what I should do under Young Mistress¡¯ order! I dare not ept this reward, so I would like Young Mistress to take care of it!¡±


    Sang Wanughed slightly and got up before pulling Nanny Li firmly to a seat. She said with a smile, ¡°Nanny Li, there isn¡¯t any need to do that. Nanny Li is Young Master¡¯s nanny and has always taken care of me. All that is worth mentioning. I can¡¯t be any clearer on what kind of person Nanny Li is! Since Cousin Fangzi has rewarded you, you should keep it without any worries! You¡¯ve helped her, so it¡¯s normal for her to express her gratitude!¡±


    Nanny Li was relieved and hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯m d that Young Mistress understands. I will only have Young Mistress deep down in my heart! No evil-doers or vixens should think about it! When Young Master left, he had told me that I have to serve Young Mistress well and not let you suffer any grievances!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to repay your kindness,¡± Sang Wan felt a warmth in her heart and smiled gratefully, ¡°If she had seeded in driving a wedge so superficially, I have let Nanny Li¡¯s care towards me go in vain! Nanny Li, you don¡¯t have to worry too much!¡± She then cast a nce at the high quality silk fabric and said with a smile, ¡°Since it is her kind intention to give it to you, it is only right and proper for you to ept it!¡±


    ¡°Since Young Mistress says so, then I will be at ease!¡± Nanny Li was delighted and said with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress is right. There¡¯s nothing we have to be scared about if we don¡¯t do anything against our conscience. I will ept this reward since she has given it to me!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Both of them looked at each other andughed.


    Early the next day, Sang Wan got up. Her hair wasbed, and her face was washed, and she was about to have her breakfast. However, a servant entered and reported, ¡°Young Mistress, Miss Gu is here to pay respects to you!¡±


    The concubines usually had to pay their respects to the first wife early in the morning. If they met a harsh first wife, they would even have to serve her, help her get changed, and wash up as quickly as possible. After that, they would pay their respects to the elders in their household under the lead of the first wife. Those lowly concubines would not be given a chance to pay respects to the elders and could only apany the first wife before waiting outside.


    Upon hearing that, Sang Wan could not help but be in a daze as she subconsciously knitted her eyebrows. She knew that Gu Fangzi was not here to give her respect, and neither was she here to win her favor. However, Gu Fangzi was now here with the status of a concubine!


    Sang Wan started to feel uneasy. She knew that when Shi Fengju was not around, Gu Fangzi would definitely be up to no good.


    ¡°Young Mistress, we should let here in since she is already here! Otherwise, it won¡¯t look good on us! We can¡¯t keep her waiting at the entrance,¡± Nanny Li stepped forward and said.


    Sang Wan nodded her head reluctantly.


    Gu Fangzi came in with Lan Xiang holding onto her arm. She wore a buttoned yellow-green embroidered bamboo-patterned outer coat and a beige pleated skirt with tangled plum flower patterns. Her hair wasbed neatly and secured with a jasper-embedded pearl tassel hairpin. The end of that silver tassel was not uniform in length, with every three strands stitched with a finger-sized red jewel. Her fresh, simple, and elegant look was indeed gorgeous.


    ¡°My greetings to Sister Sang Wan!¡± Gu Fangzi stepped forward with a smile and greeted Sang Wan. Her slim waist was stiff like a branch that would not bend no matter what.


    It was ear-piercing for Sang Wan to hear her call ¡®Sister¡¯. She lifted her hands and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have toe so early from now on. Come after you have your breakfast and we will pay our respects to Mother together afterward!¡±


    Gu Fangzi hated that arrogance. When Sang Wan was instructing her, she quietly scolded her pretentious posture but responded submissively. She said with a tender smile, ¡°It¡¯s my blessing that Sister Sang Wan can be so empathic! Since you have said so, I will naturally do as you say!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded her head. If she had her breakfast now, she could not do without keeping her to have it together. Sang Wan simply had a loss of appetite and did not want to eat anymore. She told Gu Fangzi to have a seat before indicating that she had some matters to attend to and went into her room. When the time was almost up, she went to Wang Shi¡¯s ce together with her.


    Wang Shi was very happy to see both of them arriving together and she said a few kind words to Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan silently grumbled to herself. Wang Shi was treating them both as ¡®Sisters¡¯! What a joke! If she were to raise the old subject again when Shi Fengju returned, wouldn¡¯t Wang Shi upset her to the very end!


    Sang Wan thought for a while and said with a smile, ¡°Mother, your daughter-inw doesn¡¯t pay particr attention to Sister Fangziing over to my ce to pay her respect. It would be better for her toe here directly! Since Mother is fond of Sister Fangzi, she should apany you more!¡±


    After some thoughts, Sang Wan still felt that it would be best if Gu Fangzi was to stay as far away from her as possible, even better if they never had to meet! Regardless of what Shi Fengju decided to do about this in the future, no one would me her at the very least.


    Why would Wang Shi not go along with the suggestion after hearing it from Sang Wan? She naturally agreed with a smile. Gu Fangzi was never willing to pay respects to her and once was already more than enough. After some hesitation, she agreed to it as well.


    In a blink of an eye, half a month went by. The rich smell of spring lingered under the bright sun. The flowers bloomed and the swallows flew above them. Everything beneath the sky was vivid, and the air was filled with a strong floral fragrance.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s letter finally arrived in Sang Wan¡¯s hands. There were two letters. One was written ¡®To Mother¡¯ which was meant for Wang Shi, and the other was written ¡®To My Dear Wife¡¯ which was naturally for Sang Wan.


    After receiving the two letters, Sang Wan¡¯s heavily frustrated heart day after day finally turned cheerful in an instant. She kept the letter meant for her carefully to herself. She carried the other letter to the courtyard where Wang Shi was and reported to her, not daring to dy another second.


    ¡°Mother! Young Master has sent a letter! He must¡¯ve arrived in Dezhou!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was having a conversation with Wang Shi. Upon hearing Sang Wan, Wang Shi was pleasantly surprised and she raised her eyebrows in delight, ¡°Amitabha, what a relief, what a relief! Quickly, read it to me!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded with a smile and opened the letter to read it. He had indeed arrived in Dezhou. In his letter, he mentioned that after asking around he was able to confirm that Shi Fengming did appear in Dezhou. However, he was nowhere to be found and Shi Fengju had already sent people to search for him. Perhaps there would be an oue soon, so he would like everyone at home to wait patiently and take good care of their health, and so on.


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi nodded her head and said with a sigh, ¡°Since Fengming did appear in Dezhou, the information this time is definitely reliable and I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be able to find him soon! Even if they can¡¯t, at least we still know that he is safe and sound today. This piece of news is finally a good one! Later on, pay a visit to your second aunt and let her know about this!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother!¡± Sang Wan replied and kept the letter before handing over to Wang Shi. This was Wang Shi¡¯s letter so she shouldn¡¯t be the one keeping it. She then asked with a smile, ¡°Mother, I will be writing a letter back to Lord when I go back. Is there anything Mother would like to tell him?¡±


    Wang Shi nced at her and chuckled. ¡°Tell him to take care of his body outside. Even though the weather is warm now, it would turn cold sooner orter, so he has to remember to wear more clothes to avoid catching a cold. Also, remind him to take note of his safety and leave the search to the servants. He mustn¡¯t get too worn out! We are all waiting for him to return soon!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and agreed.


    Gu Fangzi was unhappy when she heard that she was not mentioned once in Shi Fengju¡¯s letter and she said with a smile. ¡°Sister Sang Wan, can I say a few words to him too?¡±


    Sang Wan was naturally unhappy but could only nod with a smile in front of Wang Shi. ¡°You can tell me what you want to tell him.¡±


    Gu Fangzi thought for a while before answering, ¡°Nevermind. I don¡¯t want to trouble Sister Sang Wan! I will write er on. I¡¯ll have to trouble Sister Sang Wan to send it out for me!¡±


    Her big cousin had not gone to see her for a very long time. Perhaps he had forgotten that her mourning period was over. He may not care, but she still cared about him and wanted to let him know her feelings towards him!


    ¡°It¡¯ll be better that way too. I will send the letters early in the morning the following day. Sister Fangzi will have to pass it to me at Ning Garden1,test by tomorrow night!¡± Sang Wan said with a smile.


    Sang Wan¡¯s mind was on the other letter addressed to her. She said a few words and quickly returned to Ning Garden. After going into her room, she sent everyone away before taking the letter out. She could feel her heart beating wildly as her hands trembled slightly, and she became fric all of a sudden.


    Sang Wan opened the envelope before revealing a in white letter folded inside. She gently unfolded it and was greeted by his graceful handwriting.


    After a quick look, she suddenly closed the letter. Her hands that pinched onto the letter unconsciously moved to her chest as her cheeks turned red. She could clearly feel her heart thumping wildly.


    She knew he would write intimately to her in secret and it made her face red and her heartbeat uncontrobly... He had gotten more and more brazen.


    Sang Wan was already feeling embarrassed, happy, and sweet. Even though there was nobody around, she could still feel as if countless eyes were staring at her and felt somewhat embarrassed. The letter in her hands gave her a dilemma as she wanted to give it a read but somewhat did not dare to.


    However, she was unaware that while she was blushing, her eyes twinkled and the corners of her lips were slightly raised into an intoxicated smile, enough to be alluring and charming. She was gorgeous, like a blooming hibiscus flower.


    Sang Wan could not hold herself back and took a deep breath before unfolding the letter gently to read from the beginning until the end. The smile at the corners of her lips remained and she could not help but scold that shameless lecher from time to time.


    She was in a daze when she reached the end of the letter. Her face turned bright red in an instant and she threw the letter as if it were a hot sweet potato as she scolded, ¡°This scoundrel, this scoundrel!¡±

 Chapter 219 - Schemed Against

    <h4>Chapter 219: Schemed Against</h4>


    At the end of the letter, poetry was written. Clearly, it was not to be seen by anyone else. In thest segment of the letter were two lines of his words of affection that were even more private and mustn¡¯t be seen by anyone other than her.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red for a while, even her neck turned red from embarrassment. She unconsciously lifted her hands and covered her face. With her slightly cold hands touching her face, she felt slightly better. Her gazended on the letter which she had thrown onto the ground and she thought of the indecent poetry. She recalled the moment before they parted when they were interrupted and he clenched his teeth and said that she had to repay him with interest when he was back. Sang Wan immediately turned red again.


    Amotion could be heard outside the doors and Zhide seemed to be calling the person ¡®Miss Gu¡¯. Sang Wan was stunned and she wondered why she came. Before she could return to her senses, Gu Fangzi had already pushed open the door and greeted her with a smile. Her gaze immediatelynded on the letter that was on the ground and she bent down to pick it up. ¡®Huh?¡¯


    ¡°Stop!¡± Sang Wan yelled, frightened stiff with a chill running down her spine. She anxiously hurried forth and snatched the letter back rudely.


    Gu Fangzi, Lan Xiang, and Zhide were all stunned and opened their eyes in disbelief at Sang Wan as though they did not know her at all. Sang Wan had always been gentle, quiet, graceful, and calm. If they did not see what had happened for themselves, nobody would have expected this side of Sang Wan even when she had lost all self-control even in their dreams!


    At this moment, Sang Wan could not be bothered about their thoughts of her and heaved a deep sigh of relief to herself. Unfortunately, Gu Fangzi did not let it rest after being embarrassed.


    ¡°Why is Sister Fangzi here? Quickly, have a seat! Zhide, serve the tea!¡± Sang Wan said with a smile after she had returned to her senses and calmly took a seat.


    Zhide acknowledged.


    However, Gu Fangzi stepped forward and stared at the letter in Sang Wan¡¯s hands. She said with a smile, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, is this letter written by Big Cousin? Let me have a look too!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart leaped and she subconsciously wanted to deny. But if the letter was not from him, then who would it be from? She had clearly lost her self-control just now. If this letter was not written by Shi Fengju, then it would mean it was written by someone else. For her to lose her self-control for ¡®someone else¡¯, some might im that she was having an affair.


    Sang Wan put away the letter into her pocket and said with a smile, ¡°Lord wrote this to me, telling me to serve Mother well and manage the household properly! The envelope¡¯s still here!¡± Sang Wan pouted at the table that was by the side.


    Gu Fangzi nced at the table where the light brown envelope was. There were exceptionally ring words written on it: ¡®To be opened only by my wife¡¯. Gu Fangzi got jealous and did not let the matter rest. She said with a smile, ¡°My good sister. Why won¡¯t you let me have a look? Let me have a look at Big Cousin¡¯s instructions as well!¡±


    Sang Wan frowned and she looked at her coldly before faintly replying, ¡°This is not something you can have a look at.¡±


    Gu Fangzi got angry immediately. Her cousin had warned her to remember her own position, but who was Sang Wan to talk to her like this!


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan!¡± Gu Fangzi sneered slightly and said without understanding, ¡°I¡¯m actually curious. Since this letter was written by Big Cousin, why did you throw it onto the ground just now? When Aunt Wang received Big Cousin¡¯s letter, she always kept it safe as though it was a treasure. Does Sister Sang Wan not like Big Cousin? Or, did he instruct you with something you¡¯re unhappy with?¡± She then sneered. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me I was the cause of you being unhappy?¡±


    The more Gu Fangzi thought about it, the more she felt it was so. Her big cousin must have made this woman take good care of her, which made her feel jealous! That must be the case!


    ¡°What nonsense are you saying!¡± Sang Wan eximed. ¡°Did you see me throw the letter with your own eyes? I wasn¡¯t aware when it fell onto the ground, and I was about to pick it up when you barged in so suddenly! Zhide,¡± As she spoke, she turned her head to re at Zhide. She then scolded with a frown, ¡°What were all of you doing? Why was I not informed when my cousin-inw arrived?¡±


    ¡°This servant is aware of being in the wrong. I will certainly pay more attention next time!¡± Zhide stepped forward with her hands in front of her waist. Gu Fangzi had gotten increasingly uncontroble in the Ning Garden1 and would often barge in without an exnation. They were only servants, so how could they stop her?


    Sang Wan said coldly, ¡°You should. If everyone were aszy as you, the rules in the household will not be enforced! Inform Nanny Liter on to have half of your sry deducted, got it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Zhide acknowledged respectfully.


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this!¡± Gu Fangzi was enraged. Even though Sang Wan was punishing Zhide, she was clearly given a p to her face.


    Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°The servants do not know the rules and even becamezy to inform me when someone arrives, what do you think would happen if I left it alone? I wanted to discipline them before, but now... I should be the one asking Sister Fangzi what you mean by that!¡±


    Gu Fangzi stared at Sang Wan in disbelief. She was bbergasted. Never did she expect Sang Wan, who was polite and gentle, to have a tough side to her. Now that Shi Fengju was not around, she could finally do as she pleased without any care for everyone else. As for Sang Wan, Gu Fangzi looked down on her even more! From the way she looked at her, she was weak and gentle, what could she do to her?


    ¡°So you¡¯ve finally revealed your true colors!¡± Gu Fangzi said with a sneer, ¡°I have misjudged and underestimated you! You really know how to act. I wonder if Big Cousin will still think you¡¯re gentle anddylike when he sees you now! ¡°


    Zhide and Lan Xiang had a great change in their expressions and each of them hung their heads low, not daring to say anything.


    Sang Wan did not carry on with the argument and said softly, ¡°Do you have anything else to say to me? Otherwise, please leave! I¡¯m busy right now!¡±


    How dare this wretch try to chase me out! Gu Fangzi stared at her hatefully and said with her teeth clenched, ¡°We¡¯ll wait and see! Sang Wan, you¡¯ve snatched someone away from me and I, Gu Fangzi, will challenge you in this lifetime to my veryst breath!¡± She then got up and left.


    Lan Xiang could feel her knees turning weak and she stumbled while hurrying to catch up with Gu Fangzi.


    The house turned quiet in the next second. Zhide stepped forward and said with an apologetic smile, ¡°Young Mistress, please don¡¯t take her crazy words to heart! The tea has ended up turning cold. I¡¯ll quickly get you another cup of tea!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded her head with a smile. Gu Fangzi had always been that way, so what difference did it make whether she took it to heart? That hateful Shi Fengju, why isn¡¯t he back yet? When he¡¯s back, he¡¯ll surely settle everything here.


    After Gu Fangzi left behind her ruthless words, she was never seen in Ning Garden again. Several days passed and she did not cause any trouble for her. In front of Wang Shi, she was all smiles and greeted Sang Wan intimately. Sang Wan could not help but feel ufortable. She was amazed that such a person existed.


    On one certain day, Third Old Mistress Shi suddenly came to visit. Sang Wan weed her with a smile and both of them had a conversation in Sang Wan¡¯s room.


    Sang Wan had helped Third Old Mistress Shi purchase a fertilend and country house that was to her liking. As a result, Third Old Mistress Shi treated her differently from before. However, Sang Wan felt somewhat hesitant as apart from helping Third Old Mistress Shi, she wanted to buy one for herself as well. In the end, she had spent over 3,000 silvers to purchase high-quality fertilends of around 13 hectares and a mountain country house of around three hectares in the northern suburb of Guangshan region. She had secretly called Liu Ya to handle it in her stead.


    After chattering for a while, Third Old Mistress Shi suddenly said with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, I don¡¯t treat you as an outsider so don¡¯t take what I¡¯m about to say to heart!¡±


    ¡°Please speak. In any case, I¡¯m not a fool!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly said with a smile. She secretly wondered what Third Old Mistress Shi had meant by that.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go straight to the point!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi said. ¡°This may sound funny but I have a servant who heard dubious words and reported back to me. Those words weren¡¯t anything good so I didn¡¯t want to talk about it at first, but since I¡¯m already here, I¡¯m afraid you might have doubts if I don¡¯t tell you clearly!¡±


    Third Old Mistress Shi simply said what was reported to her. It turned out that the servants in the household were gossiping that the third family liked to put on airs and were not of help to the family even after being a government official for so many years. Renovations were also heard to be taking ce in Qing Hui Garden soon; weren¡¯t they clearly finding trouble for Young Mistress and Young Master? After all, who knows when they would leave again!


    When Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s servant heard it, she wanted to see who they were but her view was blocked by the flower fence. As the two gossiped and walked away, it became more excessive. With a belly full of anger, she went to Ji Cui Tower and brought it up to Third Old Mistress Shi.


    If it was before the new year, Third Old Mistress Shi would certainly be seething with anger upon hearing from her servant and would me it on Sang Wan. However, as the days passed, she could not be more grateful to Sang Wan and Shi Fengju. So, how could she still be furious? Although it was unpleasant to hear, she soon calmed down. She carefully listened to what the servant had said again and sneered slightly.


    Third Old Mistress Shi had seen the world outside and was not a fool. As a bystander, she had seen Gu Fangzi busily gaining favor from those around her, especially winning over Wang Shi. Third Old Mistress Shi was finally able to conclude that Gu Fangzi was definitely not a concubine who knew her ce well. If a concubine did not know her ce, then death was all she deserved.


    When she thought about it slightly, she soon understood that there was certainly something amiss. It was probably linked to Gu Fangzi, who had joy stirring up trouble these days. She had wanted to make use of Third Old Mistress Shi to cause trouble for Sang Wan. How daring of her!


    As for Gu Fangzi and Shi Fengju being childhood sweethearts in the past, Third Old Mistress Shi was unaware of it. However, what she knew was that Shi Fengju protected and doted on Sang Wan a lot even thought she was a wife he had married from an unremarkable household. On the ount of Shi Fengju, Third Old Mistress Shi did not wish to fall out with Sang Wan. Even when her husband was out there as an official, Shi Fengju was the one who took care of their Shi family¡¯s business. If she were to offend Shi Fengju, she could no longer eat well!


    Not to mention getting along with Sang Wan. In fact, she actually liked her nephew¡¯s wife quite a lot.


    After much thought, Third Old Mistress Shi decided to tell Sang Wan about it and let her remember this favor of hers.

 Chapter 220 - Control

    <h4>Chapter 220: Control</h4>


    Sang Wan was both shocked and angry after listening and her expression immediately sunk. It was not surprising that Gu Fangzi would call her ¡°sister¡± intimately in front of Wang Shi but stab her behind her back again! Sang Wanughed silently at herself. Gu Fangzi had always been good at plotting against others, what a fool she must be for not putting up her guard even after being at the receiving end so many times.¡°Third Aunt, thank you for telling me this!¡± Sang Wan said with gratitude, ¡°The household has many servants who just don¡¯t watch their mouths. I wonder which ignorant servants said such nonsense to make Third Aunt unhappy! Luckily Third Aunt is an understanding person, if not, I would not be able to exin myself even if I had more than one mouth!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ve always been reliable, and definitely not someone who would gossip behind peoples¡¯ back, of course I would not believe those words! However, if someone else heard this, I can¡¯t promise whether they would believe it or not!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi smiled gently before leaving her with those words.


    After seeing Shi Third Old Mistress off, Sang Wan called Nanny Li over and ordered her to investigate what happened around the wall of flowers that grew on the fence that day. After Nanny Li heard Sang Wan¡¯s story, she was infuriated too, ¡°Young Mistress, you are so kind that others are starting to step all over you! Not just this, the case with the pastries as well, that was obviously a plot to breed disharmony between you and Old Mistress. It is even worse this time, even Third Mistress was dragged into it!¡± Then she added, ¡°Luckily, Third Mistress is understanding, if it were Second Old Mistress Shi...¡±


    Without evenpleting her sentence, Sang Wan understood what she meant and said coldly, ¡°Nanny, you have to find out who those two instigators are!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress, don¡¯t worry. That isn¡¯t actually difficult, just that it¡¯ll be a little troublesome!¡± Nanny Li instantly perked up and said, ¡°If I find out who those two are, I¡¯ll definitely skin them alive!¡±


    Even though there were many servants in the household, they were all responsible for their own duties. Who was in charge, what they were doing, and at what time, all could be easily identified. After a meticulous check, five servants were picked out. And after a series of careful questioning, only two servants were left.


    The two servants, Liu Shun and Wu Chunfang were brought to Ning Garden1, in front of Sang Wan. Before they knew what was going on, Nanny Li popped the question, ¡°Where were the both of you at during 3 to 5pm on the 23rd of March?¡± This caught them by surprise.


    They did not remember the exact date. However, the acts that they hadmitted still made them feel guilty and their expressions twitched slightly.


    Not just them, but the expression on Gu Fangzi, who was invited to be behind a screen, also changed slightly.


    ¡°You don¡¯t remember?¡± Nanny Liughed coldly, ¡°Then let me help you recall. Have the both of you been to the wall of flowers, east of the flower garden?¡±


    Both of them were dumbfounded and they looked at one another in a daze.


    ¡°Yes, yes. We did go there,¡± Liu Shun smiled, ¡°That day, us old sisters were doing our duty there, clearing away the fallen leaves. Why is Nanny Li asking us about this all of a sudden? Did we do something wrong?


    ¡°Yes, Yes,¡± Wu Chunfang nodded, ¡°We went there to sweep.¡±


    Nanny Li said coldly, ¡°Were you only sweeping and didn¡¯t say anything else? Are the both of you even in a position to speak about Third Old Mistress Shi and Young Mistress?¡±


    Li Shun and Wu Chunfang immediately imed their innocence when they heard this, and they stubbornly refused to admit to their actions.


    ¡°Quiet, all of you!¡± Nanny Li said coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t be in a hurry to im your innocence, listen to me first!¡± Nanny Li began exining from the start. How many people were on duty that day, who were doing what, and where they were assigned to. Only the two servants were left who happened to be at the wall of flowers, ¡°What more do you have to add? Unless there are servants that I do not know of now?¡±


    Wu Chunfang¡¯s face turned pale and she quickly exined herself, ¡°I remember now, I was sweeping at Fu Rong Pavillion. I wasn¡¯t at the wall of flowers, I was only there in the early afternoon!¡±


    ¡°Stop with this nonsense!¡± Nanny Li snorted, ¡°If there is no evidence, why would I bring the two of you here? In the morning, both of you were in Plum Flower Garden, and after that you were at the purple vine structure and stayed there until lunch. After lunch, the both of you went to talk with the servants in the kitchen for a while before going on with your task to clean all the way from the northeast corner of the garden to the wall of flowers. Am I correct? I even have people to support my words. If you continue to lie, then I¡¯ll bring the both of you to reflect on yourself while kneeling in the courtyard. Once you¡¯ve finished, you maye back in and we¡¯ll continue with this!¡±


    Li Shun and Wu Chunfang were both taken aback. Even Gu Fangzi began to feel a little uneasy. Who knew that Sang Wan would be so detailed!


    Li Shun and Wu Chunfang did not think of today when they did what they had that day. They merely did not let Third Old Mistress Shi¡¯s maidservants recognise them, but did not avoid the other servants who were in the garden. Everyone had their duties, would Nanny Li not know if she had already investigated it beforehand?


    Both of them looked at each other before turning towards Sang Wan and kowtowed, ¡°Young Mistress, please forgive us! We were wronged! Where would we have the guts to speak badly behind our masters¡¯ backs? Young Mistress, please check thoroughly to clear our names!¡±


    The two people kowtowed and begged loudly. Sang Wan was always gentle and had a soft-heart; so long as they were able to seek Sang Wan¡¯s help, Nanny Li wouldn¡¯t be able to badger them about this since she was just a servant after all!


    But what they did not know was that Nanny Li was ordered by Sang Wan.


    ¡°Looks like I¡¯ve been too kind!¡± Sang Wan said coldly, ¡°So one and two of you now have the guts to step over me! In front of Old Mistress, do both of you dare to cry and beg for mercy too?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s tone was imposing. Li Shun and Wu Chunfang¡¯s expressions froze. Even though their faces were flowing with tears, they did not dare to kowtow anymore.


    ¡°Do you treat me as a fool?¡± Sang Wan said coldly, ¡°Whether or not Nanny Li used you, I¡¯m sure you know best. If you don¡¯t admit to your mistakes, then don¡¯t me me for taking action! Who gave you the guts to sow discord between your masters? If you still refuse to speak when I ask you, do you want me to hand the two of you to Head Servant Jin and tell him about everything and have him do another thorough investigation? As for your families, since the adults are not being a good role model and do not know how to admit to their mistakes, then they shall be punished with you!¡±


    Li Shun and Wu Chunfang¡¯s expressions changed entirely. Before, they were capitalising on the fact that Sang Wan was soft-hearted. Now that Sang Wan was being serious, how would they dare to remain firm in their stand? Nanny Li already found out their entire day¡¯s activity, there was nowhere to push their me to and they quickly kowtowed to seek for mercy while pping their mouths to scold themselves.


    Sang Wan pursed her lips and sat coldly without speaking. Nanny Li understood what she was expecting and smiled coldly, ¡°I see that the two of you are normally not this gossipy, who was the one who prompted you? Tell the truth now!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s pupils contracted and her fists were clenched tightly.


    Li Shun¡¯s mind was simple, and just as she was about to open her mouth, Wu Chunfang hurriedly kowtowed and said, ¡°Nobody ordered us to do it, it was a moment of foolishness that made us speak such nonsense! We beg Young Mistress to let us off, we would not dare to do it next time!¡±


    Li Shun caught on, and kowtowed, ¡°Yes, we were the fools!¡± How would they dare to betray Miss Gu after benefitting from this ? With that temper of hers, she was not someone who could be messed with!


    Nanny Li asked again and again, but the two refused to loosen their mouths. Sang Wan said, ¡°Since both of you are still so stubborn, Sister Fangzi, you cane out now!¡±


    Sang Wan knew she would not get an answer, and even if she did find out, there was nothing she could do if Gu Fangzi denied the impletely! If she pushed this matter too hard, and Gu Fangzi started to cry, then she would seem like the one who was petty. What she was about to do today was to warn them that she was no fool!


    Gu Fangzi walked out from behind the screen. As soon as Li Shun and Wu Chunfang raised their heads, their faces turned pale and cold sweat formed on their backs. They both let out a soft sigh of relief. If they had confessed that it was Miss Gu who made them do it, then a worse consequence would be waiting for them!


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart was filled with hatred, anger, and shock. She said unhappily, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, you purposely invited me here to observe such a nonsensical show? Sister Sang Wan, what is the meaning of this!¡±


    ¡°Why would Sister Fangzi think this is a show!¡± Sang Wan said with a straight face,¡±These servants do not know how to hold their tongues and their hearts are despicable. Brewing conflicts behind others¡¯ backs, if they are not severely punished, then who knows what they would do in the future! If therees another time and the household is made into a mess where there is conflict within the family, how is this not a big deal? How can you say that this is just a show?¡±


    Gu Fangzi grunted and said, ¡°Sister is in charge of managing the household, you decide what to do with those who have made a mistake, why do you have to drag me here to hear this? Unless Sister Sang Wan thinks that this has something to do with me? I won¡¯t hide what I¡¯m thinking, so you don¡¯t have to hide and give such subtle hints as well. If you¡¯re suspecting me, then tell me straight up!¡±


    ¡°There are some things that we¡¯re all well aware of, how can it be deemed as suspicions! But Sister Fangzi, you shouldn¡¯t be thinking too much!¡± Sang Wan smiled mockingly, ¡°The reason why I invited you over is to hear your opinion. What do you think should be done with them?¡±


    ¡°How should I know! Everything¡¯s up to you!¡± Gu Fangzi rebutted.


    Sang Wan said, ¡°How can you say that! Even though there are rules in the household, I feel that they¡¯re not enough to be used to manage such behaviors. No matter which household, sowing discord among masters is a huge offence! Which is why I wanted to ask for your opinion. After all, you¡¯ve also managed this household before, so you must have some good ideas!¡±


    Gu Fangzi said coldly, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, you think too highly of me. Such a matter has never happened when I was managing the household in the past, so I don¡¯t know!¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu, that¡¯s incorrect!¡± Nanny Li quickly cut in and said, ¡°I remember when Young Mistress first arrived, there were already maidservants gossiping about the rtionship between Young Mistress and you. Didn¡¯t you go to Old Mistress¡¯ ce to cry in resentment? How can you say this never happened before? Your memory is worse than an old woman like me!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was instantly put out of words and her face turned red from shame.

 Chapter 221 - Furious

    <h4>Chapter 221: Furious</h4>


    ¡°Since Nanny Li is so clear about this, then why ask me? Is Sister Sang Wan purposely giving me a hard time?¡± Gu Fangzi said coldly. Her expression remained just as haughty.


    Sang Wan could not help but feel infuriated. Gu Fangzi still refused to exercise restraint and instead went for a counterattack even though they had already arrived at this point. As such, Sang Wan did not answer her and said, ¡°Now that Nanny has mentioned it, I remember now! That day, the two servants kneeled in the courtyard and were spanked before being sent to do hardbor. With that as an example, how dare othersmit the same offense again. Clearly, Mother was too merciful, so I shall act as the viin in her stead! Nanny Li, these two shall be spanked thirty times each, three months¡¯ sry forfeited, and them and their families be sent to the country house! No need to wait until tomorrow, arrange everything to be done immediately! Let every servant in the household know so that they do not repeat the same offense. Otherwise, the punishment shall be even more severe!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Nanny Li gave a nce at Gu Fangzi before acknowledging.


    Li Shun and Wu Chunfang turned pale. They never thought that Sang Wan would have such a bad temper and they instantly became paralyzed with fear. Neither of the two could even open their mouths to beg for mercy.


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression turned awfully dark. Li Shun and Wu Chunfang looked at her subconsciously for help, but she could only return a cold look and could not plead for leniency. She finally understood why Sang Wan had requested her to be present. Firstly, she did so to warn her, and secondly, it was to make her helplessly witness Li Shun and Wu Chunfang being punished. After this, which servant would still dare to do her bidding in the future?


    Li Shun and Wu Chunfang were soon taken away. Sang Wan nced at Gu Fangzi before smiling softly, ¡°This incident is neither major or insignificant. However, it implicates the First and Third family. I think it is better to let Mother know about it! Sister Fangzi, you will follow me to be the witness!¡±


    Gu Fangzi witnessed Li Shun and Wu Chunfang being dragged away right in front of her. She was already unhappy that there was nothing she could do, and after hearing that Sang Wan wanted her to go Wang Shi¡¯s ce to discuss about it, she felt suffocated and did not want to go. ¡°Since this is a grave matter, Sister Sang Wan can go by yourself! I¡¯m feeling a little tired, so I won¡¯t being along. I¡¯ll take my leave now!¡±


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Sang Wan ordered coldly and red, ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to!¡±


    ¡°So you are ordering me then?¡± Gu Fangzi pressed her hands closely together, otherwise, she would¡¯ve exploded in anger. She had never seen this side of Sang Wan before.


    ¡°If you understand it that way, then so be it.¡± Sang Wan weed her re and said, ¡°Or am I not allowed to order you around?¡±


    Gu Fangzi suddenly choked with anger. Even though the servants were quiet and had their heads hung low, Gu Fangzi knew that they were paying attention to thepetition at this moment. As for Sang Wan, she did have the right to order her around.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go!¡± Sang Wan smiled and got up. As she walked to the door, she gave an instruction to Zhide, ¡°Hold onto Miss Gu.¡±


    Zhide brought two servants and walked up to Gu Fangzi. Gu Fangzi¡¯s face immediately turned from red to white as she red angrily at Sang Wan. She shook off Zhide and ran up to Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, you better not take this too far! One day, I will surely get you back for this!¡±


    Sang Wan only spoke while looking into her eyes, ¡°You were clearly the one who started this conflict first. There is a limit to my tolerance so you better behave yourself!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was feeling at a loss and confused as she angrily watched the back of the person in front of her. It was as if she never knew the person in front of her. She dared to act impudently precisely because she had a good temper, cared about her image, acted like a saint, and disliked bickering. But when she got mad... Gu Fangzi waspletely baffled.


    When the two arrived at Wang Shi¡¯s ce, Sang Wan told Wang Shi about the incident. Of course, she did not mention the part when Third Old Mistress Shi personally went to tell her about what had happened. Instead, she onlymented that one of Ning Garden1¡¯s servants unintentionally overheard it.


    After Wang Shi finished listening, she became angry and scolded, ¡°Those servants are the worst, luckily, they were heard by someone from Ning Garden. If your third aunt were to hear of it instead, there might be another episode of conflict in the household! Those two servants deserve to be punished severely. But to chase their families out too, isn¡¯t it a little too much?¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang is right!¡± Gu Fangzi immediately smiled and said, ¡°Our household has always been merciful. Those two servants were just foolish at that moment and spoke more than they should, but nothing happened in the end. What Sister Sang Wan could do is to educate them and take away two months of their sry to make them learn from their lesson. Everyone makes mistakes unless they are saints! Why does Sister Sang Wan want to punish them so severely without sparing their families? This would make the servants feel that the masters are unkind!¡±


    Gu Fangzi could not say anything previously when there was only Sang Wan. But since Wang Shi had already spoken, she had to seize the opportunity herself.


    After Wang Shi heard her, she nodded her head in agreement.


    Sang Wan spoke calmly, ¡°Mother, that won¡¯t do! It is only our luck that this incident did not bring a severe consequence, but if the household is turned chaotic because of this, don¡¯t mention how our family members would not be harmonious, but won¡¯t we be a joke to the public? I would want to remind Mother that when I first entered the household, Sister Fangzi punished two small servants when they chose to speak badly behind us. It¡¯s clear that they were obviously trying to undermine our rtionship. With that previous example, these two servants still dared to act this way, which means that the warning had not been effective. If we let them go with light punishment, we will never know when they mightmit the same mistakes again.¡±


    Wang Shi thought about it for a while and her face sunk, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re right. The servants who speak incessantly are disgusting, but those who don¡¯t learn from past mistakes are the worst. Carry on with the harsh punishment! Such an incident must not happen again.¡±


    However, Gu Fangzi quickly replied and said to Sang Wan, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, are you ming Aunt Wang for being toox on the servants?¡±


    ¡°Quiet!¡± Sang Wan red at her coldly and yelled. She raised her brows as she said coldly, ¡°Is Sister Fangzi learning from those impudent servants who try to sow discord? Mother was being merciful out of kindness, but who knew that there would be servants who did not appreciate it and give me no choice but to be the bad person. I¡¯m sure that in the future, maybe there would be fewer of such cases. So why does it sound so different when you say it? Sister Fangzi, don¡¯t tell me you are trying to incite disharmony between Mother and me?¡±


    Everyone in the house, including Wang Shi, was stunned as they looked at Sang Wan. It was the first time they had seen her this way; sheshed out at her mother-inw¡¯s favorite niece in the public for the first time, and it was in front of her too.


    All of a sudden, Gu Fangzi felt many eyes looking towards her and her face turned red. She was so ashamed that she wished she could find a hole to hide into right away! In her heart, she cursed Sang Wan a hundred folds, but on the surface, she bit her lip and looked at Wang Shi pitifully.


    Wang Shi was also shocked. There was a small amount of fear and timidness as she smiled at Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, you mustn¡¯t be so overly sensitive. I¡¯m sure Fangzi must not have meant it that way! You have always been very filial to me, how can I not know this? This matter will be handled the way you have done so! Whatever happens in the household, I¡¯m relieved that you¡¯ll handle them well.¡±


    ¡°Mother, thank you for being considerate towards me!¡± Sang Wan quickly kneeled and said with teary eyes, ¡°I must¡¯ve overreacted just now and scolded Sister Fangzi in front of Mother. I shouldn¡¯t have done that. But what she said just now had too much bias against me. If I weren¡¯t careful, it could impact me negatively. Because of that, I became very anxious and could not help butsh out! If what she said was heard by others, how will I have a footing in this household in the future? Even for Mother, your act of kindness would be disrespected! I was taught since young by my parents to be filial and maintain a peaceful rtionship with everyone in the household, so I¡¯ll continue to do so. If I were unfilial, not only would I feel uneasy, even Lord will not forgive me too. Mother, please understand my intentions!¡±


    When Sang Wan kneeled, Gu Fangzi could not help but kneel as well. As she lowered her head and kneeled beside Sang Wan, her heart was filled with hatred. When she heard Sang Wan, she hurriedly apologized and admitted to her wrong and said that she didn¡¯t mean the words she said, and did not know that she had infuriated Sang Wan with her words.


    Wang Shi saw this and hurriedly ordered Nanny Jiang to help the both of them up before sighing, ¡°It was just a slip of tongue, let¡¯s not put it in our hearts. Sang Wan, Mother is clear about your character, so why would I think that you are unfilial? Don¡¯t think about this anymore. Fangzi, you are not young anymore so you¡¯ve got to watch your mouth. I won¡¯t forgive you if you speak this way again.¡±


    Sang Wan and Gu Fangzi both acknowledged her, but when their eyes met, they quickly looked away.


    After staying to talk for a while, Sang Wan quickly took her leave.


    Liu Ya¡¯s heart was filled with joy as she held onto Sang Wan¡¯s arm. Her smile never disappeared even after they left Wang Shi¡¯s ce. Chuckling to herself, she said, ¡°Young Mistress, that was great! Hehe, did you see that Miss Gu¡¯s face flushed purple like the colour of a pig¡¯s liver? Let¡¯s see if she¡¯ll still dare to be so arrogant again. Fancy her thinking that our young mistress is a pushover!¡±


    Sang Wan nced at Liu Ya and smiled, ¡°Enough now and don¡¯t b too much. If someone were to hear you or see your face full of smiles, they might think I purposely wanted to make things difficult for her!¡±


    Sang Wan felt exhausted and frustrated at the same time. This wasn¡¯t the life she wanted, but she had to face it, and deal with it. She had to be aggressive at times. She never thought that when Shi Fengju was not around, Gu Fangzi would dare to sow discord right in front of her. If she had been passive or hesitated for half a second, she would have been held hostage by Gu Fangzi¡¯s hostility. Wang Shi, who swayed easily, would have thought differently of her again! Scolding Gu Fangzi in front of everyone was an act she had to do without a choice. Luckily, she did not bet wrongly and her mother-inw stood on her side this time.


    Right now, she had officially fallen out with Gu Fangzi. Who knew what would happen tomorrow or the day after tomorrow? However, she knew that Gu Fangzi would not give up easily. The game had already begun and even if she didn¡¯t want to y, she would still have to.


    On a certain afternoon, a servant rushed to Ning Garden and requested permission to see Sang Wan.


    Today, Old Mistress Zhuang had organized a banquet to admire flowers and Wang Shi ordered Sang Wan to apany her. When Liu Ya heard that they were going to the Zhuang Household, she immediately thought of their young master and intentionally found an excuse not to go. As such, Sang Wan brought Zhide with her.

 Chapter 222 - Relatives

    <h4>Chapter 222: Rtives</h4>


    As the weather was great, Liu Ya moved a stool out to do needlework and gossip with a few servants under the shade of flora in the garden. When she heard that someone was requesting to see her, she called the servant in as she continued with her needlework in her hands.


    ¡°Young Mistress has gone out with Old Mistress today. Do you want to make a trip here againter or should I tell them on your behalf?¡± Liu Ya lifted her head and cast a nce at the old woman. She was slightly astonished. The old woman was Auntie Zhang from the second gate.


    Auntie Zhang hurriedly replied with a smile, ¡°It cannot wait. Girl, I have to get an answer before I can go back! Girl, I was told that a married woman is here outside with a young missy. They imed they are Young Mistress¡¯ rtives. When they were asked how they were rted to Young Mistress, the married woman wasn¡¯t able to answer, but she said that Young Mistress will know when she sees her. What should I do...¡±


    Now that Sang Wan had a firm footing as the young mistress of the household, nobody dared to neglect her matters. If it was in the past, the gatekeeper would have driven the mother and daughter out and their arrival would not be announced.


    ¡°Young Mistress¡¯ rtives?¡± Liu Ya was stunned. It made more sense if the rtives were the Shi family¡¯s since there were very few rtives from the Sang family who would pay a visit. Moreover, who woulde to Qingzhou from very far away? However, both mother and daughter were certain that their Young Mistress would know when she saw them so she assumed they were not deceiving them.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you have a look? Or should I lead them in?¡± Auntie Zhang promptly asked with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and have a look!¡± Liu Ya said and she ced the needlework basket down. She got up and brushed her sleeves and jacket before she instructed a few words. Together with Auntie Zhang, they headed towards the second gate.


    After they exited through the second gate and arrived at the outer courtyard, they saw a married woman, who was dressed in a red-embroidered clothing and an ivory skirt. She was waiting with a young missy, who was dressed in autumn-colored clothing. The married woman was looking in all directions and her face was filled with curiosity. On the other hand, the young missy looked rather anxious. She hung her head low and unconsciously yed with her fingers.


    ¡°Liu Ya! You¡¯re here!¡± When the gatekeeper saw Liu Ya, he promptly went forth and pointed to the mother and daughter. Before he could speak, that married woman rushed ahead and grabbed onto Liu Ya¡¯s hands. She then eximed while beaming with joy, ¡°Liu Ya, you¡¯re finally here! We¡¯ve waited a long time for you!¡±


    Both the gatekeeper and Auntie Zhang were stupefied. Her attitude really gave them a scare. So she turned out to be the Young Mistress¡¯ rtive! However, how did a gentle and refined person like the Young Mistress have such an uncouth rtive...


    Not mentioning the two who were muttering to themselves, Liu Ya was extremely ashamed and she pulled her hands back with great strength before returning a vague reply, ¡°Why are you here? Since you¡¯re here already,e in and follow me!¡±


    Liu Ya silently sighed. She did not expect Li Shi to bring Sang Yan to the Shi family¡¯s doorstep. She could not help but wonder what they were up to.


    Li Shi proudly nced at the gatekeeper and Auntie Zhang at the side who were both still stupefied. She said with her chin raised high, ¡°Why is there only you? Where¡¯s Sang Wan? Why don¡¯t I see her?¡±


    When the gatekeeper and Auntie Zhang heard her call their Young Mistress by her name, they couldn¡¯t help but lower their heads. Not only was this uncouth woman a rtive of the Young Mistress, but she seemed quite close to her as well.


    ¡°Young Mistress apanied Old Mistress to be a guest in another household. Hurry in and follow me! You can have a seat there, sip some tea, and have something to eat while you wait for Young Mistress to return!¡± Liu Ya smiled as she went ahead.


    How she wished to stuff Liu Shi¡¯s mouth full of food right now. Her Young Mistress was still in a fierce fight with her cousin-inw, yet the Second Old Mistress Sang had toe and make trouble for her Young Mistress.


    ¡°Liu Ya, slow down. This is too tiring!¡± Li Shi was greatly discontented. She panted as she hurried to catch up with Liu Ya before pulling her to stop.


    After noticing the surprise in the gatekeeper and Auntie Zhang¡¯s eyes, Li Shi felt herself rise to a noble. She was the Second Aunt of the Shi family¡¯s Young Mistress after all!


    As a result, she did not care about Liu Ya.When they arrived at the second gate, Liu Ya slowed down her pace and said with a smile, ¡°There¡¯s still some distance left between here and where Our Young Mistress resides. Second Old Mistress, we should hurry so that you can take a rest.¡±


    ¡°Are we still very far away? This Shi household is reallyvish! It¡¯s just as huge as our entire vige!¡± Li Shi couldn¡¯t help but look all around her. She saw pavilions bright under the sunlight among the lofty and neat buildings, as well as the verdant and lush flora. They screamed of wealth and beauty. She looked around insatiably and couldn¡¯t help but give praise. After a while, she blurted out, ¡°Liu Ya, my legs are going to break walking such a long distance. Why isn¡¯t there any sedan chair? They should have them in this big household, right? Call two sedan chairs here!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Yan felt greatly embarrassed and she pulled Li Shi¡¯s sleeve lightly.


    However, Li Shi wasn¡¯t aware and went on to urge Liu Ya to call for two sedan chairs to where they were.


    Li Shi couldn¡¯t bear to part with the carriage fee. After the driver entered Qingzhou, he dropped them near the entrance. Li Shi had thought that since the Shi family was located within Qingzhou, she was sure she would arrive by asking around. Why waste the money for nothing? Who knew that even though she had managed to ask for directions. Qingzhou was extremely huge. Both their legs almost broke when walking from the city gate to the Shi household! She had originally braced herself with a breath but now that she had arrived at her destination, that breath was lost. How could she still hold up?


    Liu Ya suddenly did not know whether to cry orugh.


    Call the sedan chairs? Second Old Mistress Sang sure had the guts to say that! Even her Young Mistress could not easily request for a sedan chair in the household since only her Old Mistress had the privilege to do so. On the other hand, Second Old Mistress Sang was impolite and ordered her around as she spoke.


    Liu Ya couldn¡¯t help but frown as discontentment grew in her.


    Li Shi held on being the ¡®Master¡¯ so she did not care about Liu Ya, which made her unhappy. When she saw some rocks by the side, she ced her bottom down and kneaded her arms and legs before yelling, ¡°I can¡¯t walk any further! I¡¯m so tired! Liu Ya, hurry and send the sedan chairs here!¡±


    ¡°Mother! What are you doing?¡± After Sang Yan took a step into the Shi household, she felt ufortable. When she witnessed her mother¡¯s crude actions, her face ended up flushing red from embarrassment.


    ¡°You, stand at the side! You don¡¯t have a say in this!¡± When Sang Yan did not go along with her, she red at her angrily.


    Liu Ya was in distress and she said bitterly, ¡°Second Old Mistress, get up quickly! This isn¡¯t somewhere you should be sitting. Only the servants will casually sit around like this! It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to call for the sedan chairs but there are rules within the household. Other than Old Mistress, even Young Mistress cannot easily call for a sedan chair on usual days! If you¡¯re tired, we¡¯ll walk there slowly! This isn¡¯t a ce to rest!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s such a rule?¡± Li Shi did not believe her.


    ¡°Why would I deceive you! If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Young Mistress when she returns!¡± Liu Ya promptly replied.


    ¡°Mother, get up quickly! I¡¯m sure we aren¡¯t far!¡± Sang Yan hurriedly helped Li Shi up.


    ¡°Fine!¡± Li Shi finally stood up and dusted her bottom before mumbling, ¡°A servant like you shouldn¡¯t forget your roots after entering the city! Hmph, I will definitely ask Sang Wanter. If you dare deceive me, I will deal with youter!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. I won¡¯t dare!¡± Liu Ya was relieved and hurriedly led the way with a smile. She could only hope that she would not meet anyone on their way as she hurriedly led them to Ning Garden1.


    To her surprise, what she was most afraid turned into reality. Not long after they started walking again, they met Gu Fangzi with Lan Xiang.


    Liu Ya¡¯s expression changed drastically. She could only drop her hands and greet, ¡°Miss Gu!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was merely heading to the garden to take a stroll since she had nothing to do. Who knew that she would bump into Liu Ya?


    She did not seem to care at first and wanted to walk away. However, she realized that there was a middle-aged married woman behind Liu Ya who was observing her from head to toe. In those eyes, she could see the familiar greed.


    Gu Fangzi had good looks and was raised in the household ever since she was young. As a result, her manners were no different from a rich daughter. Right now, she was wearing a light yellow outer robe, decorated with pictures of branches, flowers, and leaves at the side. She also wore a silver-blue silk gown with a cor. Her delicate hair bun was dazzling with a beaded green jade and she was dressed in a refined and noble manner. Li Shi loved seeing those the most, so she couldn¡¯t help but stare at her.


    When Gu Fangzi realized, she smiled at her.


    However, Lan Xiang could not take it anymore. Li Shi and Sang Yan were not well-dressed. There was not a single decent ornament in their hair. One was uncouth while the other was timid. She thought they were servants picked by Sang Wan from the country house to serve in the Shi household. Her expression immediately darkened and she scolded, ¡°How dare you! Is Miss Gu for you to stare at? Hurry up and apologize to her!¡±


    Liu Ya then returned to her senses and was silently angry at Li Shi¡¯s short-sightedness. Who knew that Li Shi would put both of her hands on her hips and raise her chin before harshly telling Lan Xiang off, ¡°You¡¯re the impudent one! What guts you have as a servant! Do you know who I am? I¡¯m the Second Aunt of your Young Mistress!¡±


    Liu Ya felt a wave of dizziness and secretly red at Li Shi. She was unwilling to address her in front of the gatekeeper and Auntie Zhang because she did not wish to let anybody know about the rtionship between Sang Wan and her. Who knew that they would end up running into Gu Fangzi and her servant.


    ¡°What!¡± Lan Xiang opened her eyes wide in shock. Even though her astonishment in response wasn¡¯t intentional, she was really shocked.


    Gu Fangzi was also stunned, but she immediately chuckled as she hurriedly lifted her handkerchief to cover the smile on her face.


    ¡°What?¡± Li Shi was furious with Lan Xiang¡¯s reaction and she snorted, ¡°Ask Liu Ya if you don¡¯t believe me! Why would I lie about it?¡±


    Was there still any need to ask? It was already shown on Liu Ya¡¯s face. She looked as if she did not know whether to cry orugh from the embarrassment.


    ¡°So it¡¯s Second Old Mistress Sang!¡± Gu Fangzi stepped forward with a smile and greeted Li Shi before saying, ¡°This servant has been impolite. Please don¡¯t mind her as it would only sully your status!¡±


    For a flower like Gu Fangzi to greet her politely and speak affectionately to her, Li Shi immediately had a good impression of her and said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re Miss Gu? Hehe, you¡¯re too polite. You look just as beautiful as a deity! Anyway, it¡¯smon to see an impolite servant, so why would I make a fuss over her?¡±

 Chapter 223 - Winning Someone Over

    <h4>Chapter 223: Winning Someone Over</h4>


    After exchanging a few words, Gu Fangzi could somewhat understand what kind of person Li Shi was. She chuckled to herself. How could she let this opportunity go? She hurriedly said with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress Sang, you tter me. Miss Gu this, Miss Gu that, don¡¯t you find that too distant? My name is Gu Fangzi. If you don¡¯t mind, you can just call me Fangzi! Please be merciful and forgive my servant!¡± She then gave another round of praise again.


    ¡°Alright, alright. Then I won¡¯t be polite! Fangzi, hehe! This is much better. We sound more like rtives now! You don¡¯t have to call me Second Old Mistress Sang as well. Just call me Aunt-inw Sang!¡± When Gu Fangzi spoke highly of her, her body was itching with joy and it felt so light that she could fly to the sky.


    Gu Fangzi grinned with her lips closed lightly and replied, ¡°Aunt-inw Sang still doesn¡¯t sound intimate enough! I¡¯ll call you Aunt Sang instead! And this is¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°That will be good too!¡± Since Li Shi had lost herself in joy, why would she refuse? She felt that Gu Fangzi was simply a good person. When she saw her looking at Sang Yan, she hurriedly pushed Sang Yan forward and said with a smile, ¡°This is my daughter, Sang Yan. She¡¯s also the Young Mistress¡¯s cousin! Ah Yan, quickly greet your cousin!¡±


    Sang Yan had long been at a loss of what to do from being flustered. In front of Gu Fangzi who was resplendent, she felt a sense of inferiority and her hands and legs were stumped. When she was pushed forward by her mother, she became even more flustered and she fidgeted for a long while before greeting her cousin as softly as a mosquito.


    Li Shi was unsatisfied with Sang Yan¡¯s performance as she felt that she was simply disgraceful for being overcautious. As a result, Li Shi frowned and pinched Sang Yan¡¯s wrist. Sang Yan clenched her teeth and tightened her fists in pain, and her eyes turned red from grievance as well.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and held Sang Yan¡¯s hand. She then observed her from head to toe before saying, ¡°You don¡¯t have to be nervous. I get along well with your cousin, so I¡¯ll definitely get along well with you too! You look lovely and dotable. Since our first meeting came so suddenly, I wasn¡¯t able to prepare anything nice for you. So please, ept this golden hibiscus hairpin. It¡¯s a little gift from me!¡±


    Once that was said, she took down her hairpin which was made of gold, the petals made of ruby, and the stamen made of pearls. She then intimately helped Sang Yan put it on.


    Sang Yan wanted to refuse but no words could leave her mouth. Her body was stiff and she let Gu Fangzi put it on for her.


    Li Shi¡¯s eyes flickered at the sight of the sparkling golden hairpin. Its gems were wless, bright and beautiful. She quietly guessed that the golden hairpin must be made with at least 50g of gold and wondered how much it must be worth. Since it was worn by Gu Fangzi, Li Shi was certain it wasn¡¯t cheap!


    Her smile was like a blooming flower and she repeatedly blurted how undeserving she was before she poked Sang Yan on the forehead using her finger. ¡°What a silly girl. Quickly say your thanks!¡±


    Sang Yan was deeply embarrassed and wished she could turn around and run off immediately. She hung her head and said timidly, ¡°Thank you...¡±


    ¡°Aunt Sang and Sister Sang Yan, you don¡¯t have to be so courteous!¡± Gu Fangzi said with a smile, ¡°Since Aunt Sang seldom makes a trip here, it¡¯s a pity that Sang Wan has gone out with my aunt to be a guest in another household. Who knows when they¡¯ll be back! If Aunt Sang doesn¡¯t mind, why don¡¯t youe over to my ce? Oh, right, has Aunt Sang had anything to eat yet?¡±


    Li Shi epted the invitation without a second thought. When Gu Fangzi asked whether she had eaten, she suddenly realized how hungry she was and promptly replied, ¡°I was in a hurry and left early in the morning without having the time to eat yet!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t possibly let Aunt Sang and Sister Sang Yan go hungry! Let¡¯s hurry then. I¡¯ll ask someone to prepare the food!¡± Gu Fangzi said as she went to hold onto Li Shi¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Fangzi, what a nice person you are! Then we¡¯ll be troubling you!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re rtives, there¡¯s no trouble at all!¡± Gu Fangzi pursed her lips and smiled.


    Gu Fangzi and Li Shi got along well so quickly that Liu Ya could not find any opportunity to interrupt them. Now that Gu Fangzi wanted to take Li Shi away, Liu Ya became anxious.


    One was unscrupulous while the other was devious. If Gu Fangzi brought Li Shi to Peony Park2, who knew what they would talk about!


    Liu Ya could not care less about her own image anymore. She hurried forth to stop them and said with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress, Young Mistress might return soon. It¡¯s best for you to follow me back to Ning Garden1 to wait for her!¡±


    Li Shi never had a good impression of Liu Ya. Not only Liu Ya, even Gu Fangzi whom she fawned over as well. She envied and hated her. That ironic feeling of hers was unexinable. She had met a rich young woman who respected and ttered her, and her vanity finally hit its peak. She loved and enjoyed such a feeling very much! How could she be willing to let it rest? As such, she replied, ¡°Sang Wan still isn¡¯t back yet, right? Since Fangzi has invited me, I¡¯ll go over to her ce for a while. Tell Sang Wan to fetch us when she¡¯s back!¡±


    Li Shi deliberately wanted to disy her power as Sang Wan¡¯s elder before Gu Fangzi and she immediately ordered Liu Ya loftily.


    Gu Fangzi wanted tough until her tummy hurt. She said with a smile and nodded her head, ¡°That¡¯s right, Liu Ya. won¡¯t it be good for Aunt Sang to go over to my ce and chat? Since Sister Sang Wan isn¡¯t back yet, won¡¯t she be bored if she went to Ning Garden to wait? What¡¯s wrong? Are you worried that I might disrespect her?¡±


    ¡°No, no! Fangzi, you¡¯re already so thoughtful to me, why would I ever think that way?¡± Li Shi hurriedly waved her hands.


    ¡°Miss Gu,¡± Liu Ya said to Gu Fangzi without letting Li Shi go, ¡°There is also a small kitchen in Ning Garden. I won¡¯t want to trouble you with Young Mistress¡¯ rtives! The servants and I will serve her, otherwise, Young Mistress will scold me for cking off, which I cannot afford! Please forgive me, Miss Gu! If you¡¯re really fond of our Second Old Mistress, I¡¯ll let Young Mistress knowter before apanying Second Old Mistress to be a guest at your ce!¡±


    Gu Fangzi sighed lightly and said softly, ¡°Liu Ya, what¡¯s wrong with you? Aunt Sang and I get along well and I merely invited her over to my ce to have a chat. Why are you bent on stopping us? Is this your idea or Sister Sang Wan¡¯s? Sister Sang Wan¡¯s rtives are also mine so I¡¯ll treat them with due respect. Besides, she might even be grateful to me if I receive her guests on her behalf. Why would she me you?¡±


    At the side, Lan Xiang also added, ¡°We¡¯ll let Second Old Mistress decide. As a servant, you shouldn¡¯t overstep your authority.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Li Shi puffed out her chest and said with a frown, ¡°Liu Ya, that¡¯s enough. You can go back first! I¡¯ll go over to Fangzi¡¯s ce, I don¡¯t need you toe with me! No matter how much Sang Wan spoils you, you¡¯re but a servant so don¡¯t try to control what you cannot! I may have closed both eyes in the past, but you¡¯re now in the Shi family and there are rules to follow. It isn¡¯t like you¡¯re here just recently, so how could you not know a principle this simple?¡±Gu Fangzi slightly smirked and said quietly to herself, ¡°It seems that the both of them don¡¯t get along well. That¡¯s good, I can make use of it.¡±


    Liu Ya did not know whether to cry orugh upon hearing that. She responded, ¡°Please forgive me, Second Old Mistress. It isn¡¯t easy for you to make a trip here from so far away. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve got a lot to say to Young Mistress, right? It¡¯s better if you follow me back to Ning Garden to make it more convenient. Young Mistress has always disliked troubling others. She will definitely be unhappy if she finds out I wasn¡¯t doing my job and troubled Miss Gu.¡±


    Li Shi hesitated all of a sudden. She had rushed to find Sang Wan because she had something to tell her. If Sang Wan was really unhappy, would she still help her? Even though it felt nice being ttered by someone, she knew what to choose nevertheless afterparing the benefits.


    ¡°You sure know how to speak now! But Sister Sang Wan has always been gentle and sweet-tempered. Why would she be unhappy? Aunt Sang, let¡¯s go. At most, I¡¯ll apany you to meet Sister Sang Wanter on and tell her clearly that I was the one who pulled you along to relieve your boredom. I think Sister Sang Wan won¡¯t mind!¡± Gu Fangzi pulled Li Shi when she saw her hesitating.


    Li Shi was at a loss and finally said with a nod, ¡°That¡¯s fine too. I¡¯ll follow you to your ce! Liu Ya, don¡¯t talk so much now and go back.¡±


    ¡°Second Old Mistress!¡± Liu Ya panicked and stepped forward to stop her with both arms extended.


    ¡°Impudent!¡± Gu Fangzi scolded deeply to herself. She held back what she had wanted to say and only tilted her head towards Li Shi.


    Upon seeing Liu Ya¡¯s improper behavior, Li Shi was furious. She red at her and said, ¡°What? How dare a servant like you want to control what I do? Is this how Sang Wan has taught you? It isn¡¯t up to you to mind where I want to go, so get lost!¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya, what is going on?¡± An honest middle-aged woman could be hearding from the side. It was Nanny Li apanied by two other servants.


    Nanny Li was on the way back to Ning Garden after taking care of some matters. When she heard from the servants that Young Mistress¡¯ rtives were here and Liu Ya had gone to receive them, she was not bothered at first. She gave out instructions to the servants to identify ces in the courtyard or even inside and outside the house that needed to be cleaned and had some tidying up to do so that their Young Mistress would not be dishonored when her guests arrived.


    Who knew that after waiting for a long while, Liu Ya still had not returned. Based on experience, Nanny Li knew something must have happened. As such, she hurriedly brought a few servants to search for Liu Ya. Luckily, she managed toe across the scene of Gu Fangzi wanting to bring Li Shi and her daughter away while Liu Ya stepped in to stop them.


    ¡°Godmother!¡± Liu Ya was relieved when she saw Nanny Li. She hurriedly told her what was going on and rested her hands in front of her as she stood by the side to let Nanny Li decide on what to do.


    Nanny Li said with a smile, ¡°Miss Gu, how can we trouble you to take care of Young Mistress¡¯s rtives? Aren¡¯t you clearly embarrassing Young Mistress? Second Old Mistress, it¡¯s better if you return to Ning Garden with me. Young Mistress will probably return soon!¡±


    When Gu Fangzi saw Nanny Li, she knew that she would not have her way. Followed by her firm words, Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression slightly changed and she immediately hung her head low while looking aggrieved.


    At the sight of Nanny Li, Li Shi was unhappy, and when she heard Liu Ya called Nanny Li her ¡®godmother¡¯, she immediately ssified them together. When she saw Gu Fangzi looking aggrieved, she was disgusted and said with a frown, ¡°I say this nanny, it was me who wanted to follow Gu Fangzi. And this is none of your business! How dare a servant¡ª¡ª¡±


    ¡°Second Old Mistress!¡± Liu Ya promptly interrupted her and defended, ¡°My godmother is Old Mistress¡¯ servant. Young Master and Young Mistress always treat her with respect. She isn¡¯t just any servant.¡±

 Chapter 224 - Fighting Over Someone

    <h4>Chapter 224: Fighting Over Someone</h4>


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Nanny Li swung her hand out to stop Liu Ya. She told Li Shi with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress Sang isn¡¯t wrong. I¡¯m just a servant indeed! However, I¡¯m indebted to Young Master and Young Mistress for thinking highly of me. You are our Young Mistress¡¯s rtive, it is our responsibility to wee you to Ning Garden1 and serve you well. If you have any dissatisfaction, please wait until Young Mistresses back before talking to her about it! Liu Ya, what are you still standing here for? Hurry and help Second Old Mistress Sang!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Godmother!¡± Liu Ya shot a nce and the other two servants went ahead as well to pull both Li Shi and Sang Yan with them. Li Shi opened her mouth and wanted to retort, but seeing Nanny Li¡¯s stern look, the words could not escape her mouth. There was only a nk look on her face as she was pulled away.


    After taking a few dozen steps, Li Shi returned to her senses. She quickly turned her head and shouted at Gu Fangzi while waving her hand, ¡°Fangzi! Go back first. I¡¯ll visit you when I have the time!¡±


    Gu Fangzi and Lan Xiang giggled and nodded at her.


    ¡°That foolish countryside woman is very interesting! I didn¡¯t expect Young Mistress to have such an interesting rtive!¡± Lan Xiang jeered.


    Gu Fangzi snorted and replied coldly, ¡°That wretch, Sang Wan, is a wild and coarse countryside woman to begin with. A rtive like her is well-suited!¡±


    With that, they returned to Peony Park2 unhappily. Gu Fangzi hated the fact that she had talked too much just now and missed an opportunity. If she had known Nanny Li woulde, she would have pulled Li Shi away.


    Nanny Li, Liu Ya, and the others were startled by Li Shi¡¯s thundering voice. Nanny Li had been living under the influence of rules in her lifetime. As such, she hated those who do not abide by the rules the most. There were words she wanted to say but did not do so at first. But when she shot a look at Li Shi, she unconsciously frowned and could not hold herself back any longer. Her feet came to a stop and said, ¡°Second Old Mistress Sang, if you have anything to say to Miss Gu, it is more than enough to instruct a servant to deliver your message. By shouting so loudly, firstly, she might not be able to hear from such a distance; secondly, don¡¯t you find it terribly tiring? Andstly, it doesn¡¯t look dignified in front of the servants! Moving on, no matter how well you get along with Miss Gu, don¡¯t call her by her name. Our Old Mistress dotes on her very much. If our Old Mistress were to see how casual you were, she will be unhappy and will fault Young Mistress for being irreverent!¡±


    Li Shi was greatly discontented and replied, ¡°Even though Fangzi was the one who allowed me to call her that?¡±


    ¡°Even Young Mistress doesn¡¯t address Miss Gu by her name,¡± Nanny Li said without hiding her displeasure.Li Shi was embarrassed and responded with an ¡®oh¡¯ before going silent.


    They entered Ning Garden, passed through the hallway and took a turn to the corridor on the left. They were greeted with many different beautiful flowers as well as the lofty and dignified house that was upright and tall. The doors were brand new and the red paint was eye-catching, and the whitewashed corridor was patterned delicately. Li Shi¡¯s eyes were filled with admiration and she felt her eyes had not feasted enough. While in a daze, she almost knocked into a pir.


    Nanny Li led the two, mother and daughter, into the warm room where Sang Wan usually went. She invited them to sit on the soft couch and ordered the servants to draw some water for them to wash their hands and clean their faces before serving tea. Liu Ya had already instructed for two bowls of noodles to be cooked and she urged Nanny Li to take a rest. ¡°I¡¯ll be here! Godmother, please take a rest!¡±


    Nanny Li was not fond of Li Shi, but since she was Sang Wan¡¯s rtive, it would be inappropriate for her to say anything. When she saw Liu Ya hurriedly chasing her away, she was aware of her intentions and said with a smile, ¡°Serve her well until Young Mistress returns and let her handle the rest.¡± With that, she left.


    Liu Ya let out a sigh of relief and promptly said with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress, Third Missy, it¡¯s neither early norte now so I¡¯ve called the kitchen to make two bowls of noodles for the both of you to enjoy. It isn¡¯t early for you to go back as well, so I¡¯ve requested for a few more good dishes to be served to you today.¡¯


    Li Shi was unhappy when she had heard Liu Ya had only prepared two bowls of noodles for them. However, when she seemed tactful enough not to chase them away, Li Shi said with a smile on her face, ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy for us to make a trip here from a far away, so I was thinking of staying here for a few days! Liu Ya, Sang Wan won¡¯t chase us away, right?¡±


    ¡°Why would Young Mistress do that?¡± Liu Ya smiled but was grumbling about it deep down.


    ¡°Of course. Sang Wan has always been very conscientious!¡± Li Shi nodded her head with a beam. She gazed about the entire house in all directions and praised while clicking her tongue, ¡°This Shi family is really rich. I¡¯ll stay a few days and open my eyes to their wealth! Aiyo, we don¡¯t even have such good material to make clothes, yet it¡¯s being used as a tablecloth! Those gold, silver, and jade porcin disys are really beautiful and dazzling to the eyes! They must cost a lot of money, right?¡±


    Afraid that she would steal them away like Ren Zhixian, Liu Ya said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m sure they aren¡¯t cheap! What I do know is that these things are registered in the storehouse¡¯s book and taken out using Young Mistress¡¯s name. They will be changed every season, so when the timees, they¡¯ll have to be returned to the storehouse!¡±Li Shi responded with a ¡®Oh¡¯ and sipped two mouthfuls of tea before staring at the flower patterns on the blue and white teacup.


    After a while, a servant came in with a red tray. Liu Ya stepped forward to receive it from her before signalling for her to leave.


    ¡°Second Old Mistress, Third Missy, pleasee and eat!¡± As Liu Ya said that, she served the two bowls of noodles onto the little round table one after the other.


    ¡°We aren¡¯t very hungry, but thank you for your hard work!¡± As Li Shi said insincerely and got up, she thought to herself: Who has never eaten noodles? You should have prepared some delicious food for us since we came from very far away. Don¡¯t think you can satisfy us with just a bowl of noodles! This servant is really bing more and more petty!


    After taking a seat in front of the table and seeing all sorts of ingredients on top of the thin white noodles such as dried scallops, hams, shrimp meats, winter bamboo shoots, and so on, as well as the fragrant and rich minced meat which smelled so savory, she could not help but swallowed her saliva subconsciously before taking out the chopsticks as her mouth itched to have a taste.


    These noodles were cooked with a soup stock and were mixed with eggs into the best quality white noodles. With the skills of the kitchen staff¡¯s cooking, how would it be the same as what Li Shi would normally have? Li Shi could not be bothered about anything else and slurped a few mouthfuls of noodles. She then felt more invigorated. She held her bowl up and slurped severalrge mouthfuls of gravy before she wiped her mouth and turned her head to Liu Ya. She said with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s really delicious, but it¡¯s not enough without chili. Bring me some chili!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Liu Ya responded. She lifted up the curtain to instruct the servants. The next moment, a bowl of chili was served.


    Li Shi scooped a spoonful from the bowl and mixed it into her bowl of noodles. She then had a taste before adding two more spoons of chilis, turning the soup red. She continued eating and said with satisfaction, ¡°The chili here isn¡¯t very good! The spiciness isn¡¯t enough!¡±


    Liu Ya took a look at her bowl and her scalp felt numb from seeing the redness. She replied with a smile, ¡°The masters of the household don¡¯t really eat spicy food. Young Master and Young Mistress usually don¡¯t eat them as well.¡±


    While Liu Ya spoke, Li Shi had already gobbled down the big bowl of noodles without a single drop of gravy left. At the bottom of the bowl, there were some green onions and small amounts of meat left. Li Shi used her chopsticks to pick each of them up to eat and told Liu Ya with a smile, ¡°Do you still have more? Go and bring me another bowl!¡±


    Even though Liu Ya was familiar with Li Shi, she had never seen this side of her before. She was stunned and forgot to answer back.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I can¡¯t even have another bowl? The Shi family isn¡¯t this petty, right?¡± Li Shi was unhappy.


    ¡°No, no. Why will they be?¡± Liu Ya secretly wiped her sweat. She thought to herself: Why aren¡¯t I aware that Second Old Mistress could eat so much!


    ¡°It¡¯ll be dinner soon. You won¡¯t be able to eat anymore if you eat another bowl now! Why don¡¯t I ask someone to serve two tes of snacks for Second Old Mistress to try?¡±


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Li Shi nodded her head. When she saw her daughter still eating her noodles slowly, mouth by mouth, she could not help scold, ¡°You¡¯re always so slow in doing things. Hurry up and eat. Their kitchen is already waiting to collect the bowls and chopsticks!¡±


    Sang Yan had been unhappy ever since arriving at the Shi household. Although the noodles were savory, it was tasteless when it reached her mouth. After she was scolded by her mother, she no longer had the appetite and ced the chopsticks down before saying bitterly, ¡°I... I¡¯m done eating. I¡¯m not eating anymore.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not eating?¡± LI Shi frowned. ¡°What a waste! Quickly eat a little more! Aren¡¯t you hungry since you didn¡¯t have lunch?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m already full.¡± Sang Yan shook her head.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not eating, then I¡¯ll eat them so that it doesn¡¯t go to waste!¡± Li Shi then extended her hands and pulled Sang Yan¡¯s bowl over. She lowered her head and finished it quickly with nothing left. She then sighedfortably and told Liu Ya with a smile, ¡°Liu Ya, hurry and bring the snacks here!¡±


    ¡°Mother....¡± Sang Yan pulled Li Shi. She felt ashamed and looked at Liu Ya in embarrassment.


    ¡°What are you doing? Liu Ya isn¡¯t an outsider! Even if she is, so what? It¡¯s a pity to waste such delicious white noodles. Liu Ya, am I right to say that?¡± Li Shi red at her daughter disappointedly.


    ¡°Second Old Mistress is right! I¡¯ll bring some snacks over. Please wait for me here!¡± Liu Ya smiled. She did not find Li Shi¡¯s actions inappropriate since she was also from the countryside. She knew how precious food was. However, Li Shi¡¯s attitude was never pleasant!


    Liu Ya silently prayed for her Young Mistress to return quickly. She did not dare to let anyone else serve Second Old Mistress Sang as she would really make a joke out of herself.


    After a while, Liu Ya served three to four tes of osmanthus cakes, water chestnut cakes, golden dates cakes, and other sweet snacks before Li Shi with a smile. She then put away the two empty bowls by the side. She would wash them herself when nobody was in the kitchen. Since the bowls were empty, Liu Ya was simply too embarrassed to bring them over as she would beughed at behind her back. [1]


    ¡°A rich family is indeed different! Look at how delicate and good-looking these snacks are. They are so fragrant!¡± Li Shi pinched a piece of soft water chestnut cake and praised it.


    Liu Ya was afraid that Li Shi would sweep everything into her mouth again. The snacks that she had brought over were rtively sweet and the amount was ample. As such, she said with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress, please go ahead and taste a piece or two of every snack. There will be more delicious ones served tonight. I¡¯ve already instructed the kitchen to prepare the dishes for tonight, so please leave some space in your stomach! Before you go back, I¡¯ll prepare a few boxes of these snacks for you to take away and slowly taste them at home!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, that¡¯ll be good, that¡¯ll be good!¡± When Li Shi heard there were more delicious ones tonight and she could even take them away, she grew refined all of a sudden. She stopped after tasting a piece of every snack.


    [1]: Traditional social etiquette to have something left in the bowl as a grateful gesture for the host and to let the host know that their hunger has been fulfilled.

 Chapter 225 - Complaining

    <h4>Chapter 225: Comining</h4>


    Liu Ya wanted the two of them to sit and have a rest. Who knew that Li Shi couldn¡¯t stop talking? She held onto Liu Ya and sighed before she startedining. She spoke long-windedly about the good and bad of the family. Liu Ya was gloomy when she was forced to listen but she could not walk away and could only respond half-heartedly. However, that made Li Shi more enthusiastic. The more she spoke, the more excited she got. Liu Ya was put through an indescribable amount of misery the more she had to listen.


    ¡°Young Mistress is back!¡±


    Atst, a servant¡¯s clear voice could be hearding from outside, followed by the quick footsteps and rustling of cloth.


    ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re back! Sang Wan!¡± Li Shi¡¯s eyes lit up. She got up and wanted to rush out of the house.


    ¡°Second Old Mistress!¡± Liu Ya quickly pulled her back before saying resourcefully, ¡°You¡¯re the elder, so Young Mistress has to be the one whoes and greets you! If you go out now, others will mock you for not knowing the rules!¡±


    Li Shi gave it some thought and coughed softly to herself before putting on her usual act as she returned to her seat.. She raised her head and urged Liu Ya, ¡°Hurry up and call Sang Wan in!¡±


    ¡°Ai, I¡¯ll go right this instant! Second Old Mistress, please wait here and don¡¯t go anywhere else. Young Mistress still has to change into another set of clothes and wash her face before meeting you! Please wait for her patiently!¡± Liu Ya then lifted up the curtains and left.


    Not too long ago when Sang Wan returned, the servants quietly informed her that Second Old Mistress Sang and her daughter hade. It startled her and her expression nearly changed. After apanying Wang Shi back to the courtyard to have a rest, she hurriedly rushed to Ning Garden1.


    Right now, when Sang Wan saw Liu Ya weing her without any strangeness, she became slightly less worried.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Second Aunt and Third Cousin?¡± Sang Wan went ahead to ask before Liu Ya could greet her.


    Liu Ya went to hold her arm while replying with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, you should change into a new set of clothes first. Second Old Mistress and Third Missy are doing fine in the warm room. Please do not worry, Young Mistress!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded. She went into her chamber to change and said to Liu Ya with augh, ¡°Luckily, you didn¡¯te with me today. Otherwise, who knows what would have happened!¡±


    ¡°Exactly, it was such a coincidence!¡± Liu Ya replied with a smile. After she had sent away the servants and helped Sang Wan change into a new set of clothes, she lowered her voice and spoke, ¡°Not just me, my godmother too. On the way here, with Second Old Mistress and Sang Yan, we unexpectedly met Miss Gu...¡±


    Liu Ya simply recounted what had happened earlier and continued, ¡°I¡¯m letting you know so that you will be prepared deep down. That way, you can avoid being kept in the dark if Miss Gu use them against you in the future!¡±


    Sang Wan was startled and furious. Her hands turned slightly cold and she responded with clenched teeth, ¡°That woman is just like a mad devil! What can she not do? Thank goodness Nanny Li and you were around today. If she brought Second Aunt back with her, that would be terrible!¡±


    Sang Wan did not dare to imagine what would happen if Li Shi was brought away by Gu Fangzi. Li Shi was brainless and with that mouth of hers, what could Gu Fangzi not ask by prying deliberately? And if she were to bring Li Shi to see Wang Shi...


    Sang Wan trembled and said, ¡°I can¡¯t have them stay. Send them back early in the morning tomorrow!¡±


    Liu Ya replied with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯ll have to think of a way! What don¡¯t you know about Second Old Mistress? There¡¯s no way she will leave so easily aftering here. She told me today that she wished to broaden her horizons by staying in the household for a few more days!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes flickered slightly as she said, ¡°I will think of something!¡±


    After much difficulty, she was finally able to stabilize her position in the household and her status. She definitely would not let someone like Li Shi tarnish her reputation. Her two elders were unkind and without conscience, and relied on a little bit of bloodline to hold onto the rtionship! Since she did not owe them anything, it was not worthwhile to be implicated with them.


    Sang Wan hurriedly changed into a set of green clothes with vine patterns and took off the expensive andplicated jewelries. She tied her hair into an ordinary bun and inserted two jade hairpins embedded with gems before leaving with Liu Ya supporting her arm.


    She suddenly stopped in her tracks and asked Liu Ya, ¡°Nanny Li...¡±


    Liu Ya faintly forced a smile, ¡°When Second Old Mistress and Third Missy arrived, Nanny Li left to do something else and I was the only one serving them. I wouldn¡¯t dare to let her spout nonsense in front of Nanny Li. It would be too embarrassing!¡±


    Sang Wan scoffed and gently poked on Liu Ya¡¯s forehead. ¡°You¡¯re bing more and more quick-witted!¡±


    Both master and servant lifted the curtain and went into the warm room. Before Sang Wan could greet her, Li Shi rushed over like the wind and hurriedly grabbed onto her hands. ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re finally back! I¡¯ve been waiting for you!¡±¡°Second Aunt, please have a seat before we talk! I didn¡¯t know that Second Aunt would being and I apanied my mother-inw out to be a guest today. Second Aunt must have waited long!¡± Sang Wan withdrew her hand and sat on the head seat.


    ¡°We have not seen each other for a very long time. There¡¯s so many things I wish to tell you!¡± Li Shi beamed and sat beside Sang Wan without thinking.


    Liu Ya hurriedly said with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress, that¡¯s Young Master¡¯s seat. Please have a seat here instead!¡±


    She gestured with her hands to guide Li Shi to sit on the guest seat.


    Li Shi spoke unhappily, ¡°Isn¡¯t he not here right now? Can¡¯t I sit here where it¡¯s nearer to Sang Wan? You are getting bolder and bolder! Sang Wan, just look at her. She is even nitpicking on what I do!¡±


    Li Shi was greatly disappointed and red angrily at Liu Ya before turning to Sang Wan with the intention of letting her decide.


    Not knowing whether tough or cry, Liu Ya opened her mouth but quickly closed it. Against a person like Li Shi, there was no way of reasoning with her!


    ¡°Second Aunt, Liu Ya always speaks what she thinks, just like my sister-inw. Why bicker with her? Have a seat here, you must have something to talk to me about, right?¡± Sang Wan smiled and pointed at the guest seat. Clearly, she wanted Li Shi to sit there just like what Liu Ya had meant.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Li Shi responded embarrassingly without saying another word. She went to the seat and sat down. She could disregard Liu Ya¡¯s words, but she did not dare to do the same with Sang Wan¡¯s.


    Sang Yan stood behind Li Shi and hung her head low until it was nearly buried in her chest. She twisted her fingers in unease and her face blushed from embarrassment.


    Sang Wan could not bear to see that so she said with a smile, ¡°Third Sister, you should take a seat too. There is no outsider here so you don¡¯t have to stand.¡±


    ¡°Exactly! Your own sister is not an outsider. Why are you standing there like a blockhead? Hurry here and greet your sister. You¡¯re getting increasingly stupid. How do you not know how to greet your sister! Sang Wan, don¡¯t mind her. This girl has not seen the world yet!¡± Li Shi turned her head to re at Sang Yan as she reprimanded her.


    Sang Yan was so embarrassed that she did not even know where to put her hands and legs. From behind her mother, she stepped forward and raised her head slightly to nce timidly before lowering her head again as she softly greeted.


    Sang Wan could not help but to pity her. With a mother like Li Shi, was she truly lucky? To say she was lucky was because her mother had arranged everything for her since she was young. Li Shi protected and took good care of her, so there was nothing she had to worry about. Because of that, Sang Wan envied her a lot. However, the unlucky side was the personality due to her upbringing, which was clearly Li Shi¡¯s fault. If Li Shi was no longer around in the future, it would be as if the chick had lost the protective wings of a hen. Would she ever live independently?


    ¡°Third Sister, please have a seat!¡± Sang Wanughed.


    Sang Yan was dragged by Li Shi to sit. ¡°Why are you so timid!¡±


    Upon seeing Li Shi being long-winded again as she scolded Sang Yan, Sang Wan hurriedly coughed to interrupt her. She said with a smile, ¡°Oh, Second Aunt, why don¡¯t you tell me what you came here for!¡±


    Li Shi¡¯s tongue immediately took a turn. Even though she wanted to lecture Sang Yan, she quickly swallowed them before sighing andining to Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, Second Aunt is really born under an ill star! Ever since I entered the Sang family, I have painstakingly taken care of the family. I should get credit for my hard work, right? Never did I expect your Second Uncle to be so ungrateful. After seeing me grow old and be an old woman, he wants to get a concubine now! What son to burn joss sticks? Those are all just excuses! I¡¯m sure he has a change of heart now that I¡¯m old! Men are no good after all! How unscrupulous! Just because he has some savings, he¡¯s be lecherous and ced his wife and child at the back of his head...¡±


    Words ofint began gushing out of Li Shi¡¯s mouth as she reprimanded Sang Pingliang for being ungrateful. She gave many examples of how she had looked after him back then, what she had done for the family, howzy that vixen was, how she even dared to talk back to her, and more. Yet that man still shielded that vixen in the end.


    Liu Ya dropped her hands and stood beside Sang Wan. She quietly listened and could not help to praise Li Shi for her good memory. Before Sang Wan returned, she had likewiseined to Liu Ya without any change in her lengthyints.


    Sang Wan became awkward while listening and quietly asked herself: What does the grudges between them have to do with me? Are you looking for support to uphold justice for you? You must be thinking too highly of me!


    Even though Sang Wan had wanted to interrupt Li Shi, she was eloquent and talked non-stop naturally and unforced. When she called out to Li Shi, she was only intercepted by Li Shi¡¯s ¡®Sang Wan, you don¡¯t know¡¯ before carrying on.


    Soon after, Sang Wan did not bother to interrupt her and held her teacup while lost in thoughts. Li Shi could just say whatever she wanted. In any case, there were no outsiders around.


    ¡°Mother, Mother!¡± The person who found it the most difficult to bear was Sang Yan. Upon hearing her mother criticize her father¡¯s scandal in full detail in front of her cousin, her face started burning up. She could no longer bear to hear her motherin and she pulled her mother¡¯s sleeve lightly. She pleaded with tears in her eyes, ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t say anymore...¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I talk about what he has done!¡± Since Li Shi had finally found a person to let out all her bitterints, there was no way she¡¯d let the opportunity escape. With grief and indignation in herints, her emotions were brewing up within her. She did not want to be interrupted by her daughter. As a result, she was exceptionally angry and poked Sang Yan forcefully on the forehead


    ¡°You ungrateful girl! Have you forgotten who your mother is and who raised and protected you? You¡¯re just as ungrateful as your father! I have raised you up for nothing, you ingrate!¡±

 Chapter 226 - Adding On To The Annoyance

    <h4>Chapter 226: Adding On To The Annoyance</h4>


    ¡°Mother! I... I did not!¡± Sang Yan was feeling ashamed. Being put in the spot in front of Sang Wan, she covered her face with her hands and started crying.


    ¡°Second Aunt, don¡¯t you know Third Sister¡¯s personality? By scolding her, there¡¯s no way she would feel better.¡± Sang Wan hurriedly urged before shooting a nce at Liu Ya.


    Liu Ya went forward and patted Sang Yan lightly on the back while consoling softly, ¡°Third Missy, please don¡¯t cry. There are servants outside. They will definitelyugh at you if they hear you!¡±


    Sang Yan was stunned and immediately stopped crying.


    ¡°Second Aunt, doesn¡¯t Second Uncle only want a concubine? You have been with him for more than half of your lifetime, he will certainly not divorce you. There is no need to be so furious!¡± Sang Wan continued with a smile, ¡°Have you calmed down a little? Let¡¯s not talk about these anymore! I don¡¯t have any ways to help you even if you tell me!¡±


    Li Shi snorted. ¡°Divorce me? How dare he! I¡¯m just feeling bitter about it. Sang Wan, our household is different from yours! The Shi family is rich and it won¡¯t matter if your husband takes in a lot of concubines. However, a countryside family like ours does not have spare money lying around. Our Ah Yan¡¯s dowry has not been prepared, yet he had already spent nearly a hundred silvers to buy that vixen. Isn¡¯t he intentionally making me mad!¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but be angry upon hearing her. She clenched the embroidered handkerchief in her hands tightly and her hands trembled slightly. Was this something that an elder should say? Why did it sound so ear-piercing!


    Liu Ya also had a face full of unhappiness. She lowered her head and red hatefully at Li Shi. Her Young Master and Young Mistress had good feelings for each other. However, Second Old Mistress Shi still talked about having concubines. Liu Ya personally did not like the idea of having concubines and felt those who did were unimpressive! Li Shi¡¯s way of thinking waspletely uncalled for!


    While Li Shi wasining endlessly, she suddenly became aware of the dull atmosphere. She looked at Sang Wan and then at Liu Ya. Her voice unconsciously grew softer and she gradually stopped.


    She was a bit baffled. No matter how foolish she was, she could sense that Sang Wan and Liu Ya were angry. However, she did not know why.


    Although Li Shi was frustrated, she had to keep her anger under control since she had to request something from Sang Wan. She chuckled and spoke, ¡°Sang Wan, Second Aunt is bad with words. If I have said anything wrong, please don¡¯t put them to heart! Forget it, let¡¯s not talk about it anymore! There isn¡¯t any point in talking so much about it! Second Aunt only wanted to grumble. Just as you have said, I do feel much better now so I¡¯ll stop, I¡¯ll stop.¡±


    Sang Wan forced a smile and looked at her before lowering her head to take a few sips of tea without uttering a word. She quietly said to herself: I¡¯m sure you¡¯re feeling much better, but you have made the people around you unhappy. Does your family have something against the Shi family? Or is it because you cannot bear to see us living well every time we meet?


    Sang Wan could not help but shake it off as she thought to herself: It isn¡¯t like I don¡¯t know what sort of person she is, so why be bothered about what she said? Silly me!


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now. Second Aunt must be feeling hungry, right? Liu Ya, send someone to take a look in the kitchen. Serve the dishes onto the table if they¡¯re done!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya answered before taking her leave.


    When Li Shi finally saw the smile on Sang Wan¡¯s face, she assumed Sang Wan did not mean to be angry with her. Thus, she was relieved and quickly said with a smile, ¡°Alright, alright. We¡¯ll eat first!¡±


    The food was already prepared. After the food had been served, she sent the servants away. She then went over to invite Sang Wan, Li Shi, and Sang Yan to eat.


    Liu Ya then stood by the side to serve them..


    Upon seeing a table full of fine, nice-looking, and fragrant dishes, Li Shi, who was initially not very hungry, could not help widening her eyes as her mouth watered.


    After Sang Wan invited them to take a seat, Li Shi, who was praising the food without end, quickly pulled her daughter to sit and could not wait to start eating.


    Sang Yan secretly took a nce at Sang Wan. When she saw her being rxed and calm, unlike her mother who was like a hungry tiger that came down the mountains, Sang Yan smiled bitterly to herself: In any case, our family had long been disgraceful. It¡¯s no different this time.


    Li Shi kept singing praise while she ate. At the same time, she repeatedly asked Liu Ya what dishes they were and how to make them. Liu Ya could only answer her half-heartedly.


    In the middle of their meal, Li Shi¡¯s chopsticks suddenly stopped moving and she lifted her head to look at Sang Wan strangely before asking, ¡°Sang Wan, aren¡¯t there any other servants to serve us? Why is it always only Liu Ya?¡±


    Liu Ya took a glimpse at Li Shi and said to herself: How can the other people endure your attitude? If they were to see that, who knows how much they wouldugh at you tomorrow? Even Young Mistress would beughed at! Some nerve for you to ask!


    Upon seeing the table wet with soup; bones, fishbones, ginger pieces, garlic skins, and other things on the floor, Liu Ya could not help but be frustrated. She would have to do the initial tidy up first before letting the servants in to clean the ce.


    ¡°The other servants are tired after a day of work, so I told them to take a rest. Besides, I¡¯m used to Liu Ya serving me,¡± Sang Wan replied with a smile.¡°Right,¡± Li Shi nodded her head as if she was being very serious. ¡°Liu Ya is considerate and knows her ce! Most servants from rich households have ill thoughts which can result in a conflict of interest between them and their masters if they are not careful! Especially for someone like you whoes from a small and poor household, I¡¯m afraid that they may look down on you! Nevertheless, it¡¯s good that you have Liu Ya!¡±


    ¡°Second Old Mistress!¡± Liu Ya could no longer hold herself back and said with a sullen face, ¡°Don¡¯t you know that you shouldn¡¯t let your tongue loose at your age? It may cause unnecessary trouble! If someone were to hear you, what would they think of our Young Mistress? How is Young Mistress going to conduct herself¡±


    ¡°How dare you lecture me!¡± Li Shi was so angry that she pointed her chopsticks at Liu Ya. She then turned to Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, just look at that. How dare she talk to me in this way!¡±


    Sang Wan clenched her teeth in hatred. She hated being the junior. How she wished she could express her unhappiness! If a servant had heard what was said, it would be like what Liu Ya had mentioned. How exactly would others think of her?


    ¡°Second Aunt, those are not kind words. Besides, our family isn¡¯t thatplicated. You think too much! You should eat first! Both of you must be tired today. Please have an early rest after eating!¡± Sang Wan said faintly without even ncing at Li Shi.


    ¡°Mother, Sister Sang Wan¡¯s family matters aren¡¯t something we should be concerned about. Let¡¯s not talk anymore and eat!¡± After stepping into the Shi household, Sang Yan had finally spoken smoothly for the first time. Sang Wan¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t pleasant just now, whichpletely surprised her.


    Li Shi was discontented when Sang Wan did not stand up for her. However, she could also feel Sang Wan¡¯s anger and quickly chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m only showing my concern for Sang Wan. I couldn¡¯t help but speak. Sang Wan, please don¡¯t be oversensitive about it! Let¡¯s eat and not talk about it anymore!¡±


    With much difficulty, the food on the table was finished and Sang Wan led the two of them back to the warm room. Nanny Li had already sent the rest of the servants out and left only Zhide and herself, as well as two other sincere and earnest servants.


    They lifted up the curtains and guided their masters into the warm room before serving them tea to rinse their mouths.


    Li Shi thought they were tea to drink. After releasing a loud burp, she gestured with her hand while saying, ¡°I¡¯m full from eating just now, so I don¡¯t want any tea yet. You don¡¯t have to put any here!¡±


    The servant pursed her lips and smiled before saying, ¡°Second Old Mistress Sang, this is tea to rinse your mouth, not to drink.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Your family is very tasteful indeed!¡± Li Shi chuckled and looked at Sang Wan. She held the cup and did what she was told.


    ¡°Young Mistress, I¡¯ve already instructed the servants to prepare the guest room. There is hot water in the kitchen as well. When they would like to go back and rest, I will have the hot water sent over to them,¡± Nanny Li stepped forward and said with a smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you, Nanny Li. I hadpletely forgotten about it!¡± Sang Wan replied with a smile before saying again after some thought, ¡°Tidy up this room instead of the guest room and let Second Aunt and Sister Sang Yan stay here tonight. Nanny Li, you can go and rest. You¡¯ve been busy the entire day. There are still Liu Ya and Zhide!¡±


    ¡°Understood. Then I will be taking my leave first!¡± Nanny Li bowed before leaving.


    Li Shi did not have a very good impression of Nanny Li. When she saw her leave, as if implying something, she was even more displeased and said to Sang Wan, ¡°That old servant is your husband¡¯s nanny? How can a nanny from arge household be so haughty, almost as if she is his real mother! Sang Wan, you really are good natured, to even treat her...¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s voice grew stern as she red at Li Shi, ¡°Nanny Li is my husband¡¯s nanny and has painstakingly served and taken care of him. In front of my mother-inw, he respects her a lot. Second Aunt, please do not say such things again!¡±


    Li Shi opened her mouth and stared at Sang Wan without a word.


    She had wanted to tell Sang Wan about what happened today to have her teach Nanny Li a lesson on her behalf. Who knew that Sang Wan shielded Nanny Li instead! Li Shi could not help but be frustrated. Without a choice, she could only let out a few coughs before lowering her head to drink her tea.


    Sang Wan felt that bickering over it would simply be asking for trouble, so she asked, ¡°Second Aunt, tell me why you¡¯vee here. After you are done, you can go back to your room and have some rest! I have already sent someone to prepare the carriage to send Second Aunt back early tomorrow morning! If you don¡¯t go back, can you really be assured about your family? Are you really not worried that the concubine will influence Second Uncle to do something?¡±


    Li Shi could only remain quiet. She had wanted to stay for a few days but could not say it. When Sang Yan heard that, she was silently relieved. If they were to stay in the Shi household for a few more days, with her mother¡¯s character, only Heaven will know how she would beughed at. It was truly ufortable to follow her here today.


    ¡°Mother, Sister Sang Wan is right. You should hurry up and tell her. She will help you think of a way! How can you leave the house with so many things still left to settle? It¡¯s the busy farming season, we have to hurry home tomorrow!¡± Sang Yan quickly persuaded her mother.


    ¡°Fine, that will do.¡± Li Shi quickly answered and then responded with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, after the busy farming season, I will bring Ah Yan here again to visit you!¡±


    Sang Wan vaguely replied, ¡°Second Aunt, beforeing the next time, ask someone to send a letter over to inform me first. Come after I write back. Otherwise, won¡¯t it be a bad situation like today? Luckily, Liu Ya did not follow me out today.¡±


    Li Shi hurriedly answered with a smile, ¡°I met your cousin-inw today on the way here. She seems nice and even invited me over to her ce! Sang Wan, you have to tell her on my behalf tomorrow that I will visit her after Ie back...¡±

 Chapter 227 - Marriage Matters

    <strong>Chapter 227: Marriage Matters</strong>


    ¡°Second Aunt!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s face fell, as she chided her coldly. ¡°Miss Gu isn¡¯t someone you should mention, and don¡¯t be too close to her! You don¡¯t know what goes on in the Shi household, so don¡¯t meddle in things that you are unfamiliar with! Just stay far away from her and never go near her if you get to see her ever again. Do you understand?¡±


    The thought of the incident today gave Sang Wan a headache. This Li Shi. Is her brain filled with sawdust or grass? You are neither a wealthy woman nor a respectable one. Not only that, the way you dress screams nothing but countrywoman! It¡¯s so obvious that you¡¯re nothing but a inmoner! Why would Gu Fangzi treat you so nicely and affectionately when it¡¯s the first time you¡¯ve met her if not for her having something else in mind!


    ¡°But, why? She seems nice. And from what I see, she is a polite and sweet-tempered girl.¡± Li Shi looked puzzled, obviously doubting Sang Wan¡¯s words.


    Hearing Li Shi, Sang Wan was unsure if she shouldugh or cry. Even if she were to cry, she was so exasperated that no tears woulde out! Even to her sister-inw, Fang Shi, she could not reveal the details of the grudges between herself and Gu Fangzi, so how could she say anything more to her second aunt? Sang Wan was sure that if she were to spill any beans, Li Shi would be able to create something out of nothing when she returned to the vige and all Sang Wan could do then would be to watch her reputation be tarnished in no time!


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s not talk about this! Just take my words to heart. It¡¯s impossible to exin the Shi family¡¯s household matters to you and knowing too much might bring trouble too so just remember my words! By the way, what brings you here today?¡± Sang Wang calmed herself down and hid her annoyance.Seeing the sudden change in Sang Wan¡¯s attitude and her imposing manner instilled a slight sense of fear in Li Shi which made her feel inferior to Sang Wan. It then dawned on her that the status of Sang Wan had changed, and things would never be the same anymore. Where Sang Wan stood now was where Li Shi would never be able to reach in this life, and she could no longer treat Sang Wan as she once did, ordering her around by abusing her status as Sang Wan¡¯s elder.


    The thought of it made Li Shi dejected, but there was nothing else she could do other than to ept her fate. She sighed and nced over at Sang Yan. ¡°Sang Wan, it¡¯s Second Aunt Li¡¯s fault for mistreating you in the past, but could we just let bygones be bygones? I know that you¡¯re broadminded and I will apologize to you for all my mistakes right now! I¡¯ll listen to whatever you say too. The next time I see Miss Gu, I will not go near her. Is that alright, Sang Wan?¡±


    Her words took Sang Wan aback. A trace of regret washed over Sang Wan for a split second but it quickly disappeared before she sighed.


    Second Aunt Li was still the same Second Aunt Li that she had years ago. Despite her words that sounded sincere and her showing her eagerness to listen to Sang Wan right now, as the saying goes, a leopard can¡¯t change its spots. Therefore, Sang Wan never expected Second Aunt Li to really repent on her actions.


    If she had really repented, she would have included Sang Hong, Fang Shi, Sang Yufei and the rest in her apology. So what if you have mistreated me? The ones who deserve your apology the most are your nephews! Have you forgotten how you gloated over their misfortune, looked coldly from the sidelines, and even spread rumors? Oh, and forcefully took advantage of them whenever you could! All those bad memories were still fresh in Sang Wan¡¯s mind. Thankfully, she had a powerful sister-inw who confronted Li Shi, or else they would be broke thanks to Sang Wan¡¯s Second Uncle and Aunt.


    ¡°It¡¯s all in the past now, so why do you still bring it up?¡± Sang Wan asked calmly.


    ¡°Yes, yes, it¡¯s all in the past. Just look at you, you¡¯re enjoying a good life now. A good person would indeed not go unrewarded!¡± Li Shi nodded profusely and heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Your second aunt only has your third sister. Ai, I¡¯m so worried about her future. Sang Wan, I¡¯m sure you have forged many connections and have a huge social circle, could you please help Ah Yan find someone suitable? It would be good if she has somebody to rely on. It will ease your second aunt of many worries and Sang Yan may even be a good help to you in the future! A rtionship by marriage is much more reliable than anything else!¡±


    ¡°Mother, what you are saying!¡± Sang Yan¡¯s face turned as red as an apple in no time as she looked to the ground in embarrassment. Sang Yan had never expected that after her parents¡¯ quarrelled about the new stepmother, her mother would bring her to visit her cousin with regards to her marriage.


    ¡°She¡¯s your cousin, what¡¯s there to be embarrassed about? It¡¯s not like she¡¯s an outsider!¡± Li Shi threw an angry nce at Sang Yan and pushed her forward. ¡°Hurry up and plead with your cousin! She can get you a good family and let you be worry-free for the rest of your life!¡±


    Sang Yan was not the only one who was shocked, even Sang Wan was too. Sang Wan initially thought that Li Shi came to ask for some money. Since Li Shi had made her way here, there wasn¡¯t any reason for Sang Wan to refuse her. But who would have expected her request to be about Sang Yan¡¯s marriage?


    This made Sang Wan¡¯s head throb and she wondered whether tough or cry. Sang Yan¡¯s parents are both alive and kicking, while I¡¯m just a cousin who has been married to another family. Moreover, we are of the same generation! What would others think if I am to take charge of Sang Yan¡¯s marriage? What is Second Aunt even thinking?


    ¡°Mother!¡± With a nasal voice and red-rimmed eyes, Sang Yan called out to her mother. How she hoped that she could dig a hole in the ground right away and vanish in there! If she knew her mother wasing here to talk about this, then she would have refused toe no matter what! Just what was this?


    ¡°Stop pulling me. Hurry up and plead with your cousin!¡± Li Shi ripped Sang Yan¡¯s hand off her arms and pushed her forward, with the hopes that Sang Yan would show some sincerity.


    However, why would Sang Yan do so? She ran to a corner, and with her back facing them, she bit her lip as tears streamed down her cheeks.


    ¡°Stupid girl! Useless girl!¡± Li Shi gritted her teeth in annoyance and turned to Sang Wan with an apologetic smile stered on her face, ¡°Sang Wan, Ah Yan has always been a shy girl. We are family, what¡¯s there to be shy about? Thankfully it¡¯s you, Sang Wan, and not anyone else. I¡¯m sure you will not make a fuss about this. Sang Wan, your aunt will ce this matter into your hands. Please help Ah Yan find a good family. Second Aunt will be grateful to you for the rest of my life!¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt,¡± Sang Wan tried not to show her surprise and continued after a slight thought. ¡°Second Aunt, a daughter¡¯s marriage has always been nned by their parents. Second Aunt and Second Uncle are still alive and kicking, how could I take Sang Yan¡¯s marriage into my own hands? Second Aunt, you may not mind about what others may think but I do! What would they then say about me if they knew about this? That I¡¯m so bossy that I spread my control over my own family? I¡¯m sorry, Second Aunt, but I really cannot do this. This concerns Sang Yan¡¯s future, and how old am I to be able to choose a guy who is right for her? I cannot take on this responsibility, it¡¯s too much for me to handle! Moreover, I have only just be someone else¡¯s daughter-inw, how would I possibly know how to choose a partner? Second Aunt, you¡¯re putting me in a difficult position! Since Cousin Sang Yan is not young anymore, why not find a good family for her yourself? I¡¯ll personally send a generous dowry for cousin. What do you think, Second Aunt?¡±


    Hearing Sang Wan¡¯s refusal, Li Shi¡¯s heart sank and she began to resent Sang Wan in her heart. Unreasonable! Looking down on us, your poor rtives, now that you are wealthy, huh? Are you afraid that my daughter would lead a life better than yours in the future and you are jealous of that?


    Li Shi wanted to voice out her resentment, but after hearing Sang Wan promising Sang Yan a generous dowy, she did not dare to continue.


    Sang Wan was the only one who could help her now, and so what if she was unwilling? If sheined further, her daughter might not even get her dowry and it would be such a huge loss! If Sang Wan really gave a substantial amount of money, then I¡¯ll be able to afford a few hundred hectares ofnd for my daughter. There would be no need for Sang Yan to worry about her future anymore after that!


    As Li Shi was deep in thought, she was cut off by Sang Wan¡¯sughter. ¡°So it¡¯s a deal! It¡¯s not early anymore, Second Aunt should get some rest before hurrying back tomorrow morning. I don¡¯t have much for you, but since you are already here, I¡¯ll get Liu Ya to prepare a few pieces of fabric and makeup for my cousin!¡±


    Li Shi immediately grinned, ¡°Thank you so much! I was still worrying about her dowy, but now there¡¯s no need thanks to you! I want to give her four hundred hectares ofnd as dowry, but it¡¯s hard to find a suitable one. Can I trouble Sang Wan to help me with this?¡±


    Hearing this, Liu Ya, who was at the side, rolled her eyes. She¡¯s indeed unrestrained. Asking for four hundred hectares ofnd? That¡¯s so costly!


    As for Sang Wan, she was unhappy with the request too. She furrowed her eyebrows and said, ¡°I¡¯ll render any help that¡¯s needed when the timees. Right, how¡¯s my elder cousin¡¯s marriage going now?¡±


    Initially, Sang Wan did not want to mention their family matters. But seeing how thick-skinned Li Shi was as she tried to take advantage of Sang Yan¡¯s marriage, it seemed unfair if she did not bring up Sang Rou.


    Li Shi¡¯s expression turned ugly immediately. ¡°Her bad temper is an issue! I¡¯m worried that no family would want to take her. If there is, I¡¯d be more than willing to pay for her to get married! It¡¯s not my business to care since her father is still around! Ah Yan is already more than enough for me to worry about.¡±


    ¡°Second Aunt mustn¡¯t say that.¡± Sang Wan smiled. ¡°Cousin Sang Rou addresses you as Mother too, so how can you not care about her too? How would Second Uncle know how to handle this? After all, what does a man know about marriage? The worry from you is absolutely needed. I have not heard of anyone¡¯s younger daughter getting married before the elder one. Am I right?¡±


    Seeing Sang Wan speak up for Sang Rou, Li Shi felt extremely unhappy. She muttered a yes and an idea came to her mind before she patted her head, ¡°Aiya, there¡¯s something that I forgot to inform you!¡± Li Shi then exaggerated Sang Pingliang and Sang Rou¡¯s intention on Shi Fengju when Sang Wan was at their house previously. She looked at Sang Wan with pride, ¡°That shameless girl, she was grinning from ear to ear when she heard her father¡¯s idea! I can¡¯t stand that vixen and I scratched her face so hard that it bled! There¡¯s still a scar that runs across her cheeks right now. Sang Wan, you¡¯re so kind to think for her but look! That ungrateful girl is plotting against you behind your back!¡±


    This made Sang Wan fume with anger, but she was also surprised. For a moment, she was at a loss for words. I really am to me for meddling into their family¡¯s problems!


    She believed that Li Shi was telling the truth as that sounded like something that her second uncle might do. Although what Second Aunt did is really for Sang Yan, she¡¯s trying to gain a favor from me now!

 Chapter 228 - Finding Fault

    <h4>Chapter 228: Finding Fault</h4>


    ¡°Sang Wan, you have to believe me. If not, you can ask Sang Yan. She was the one who happened to hear it before running to tell me! Ah Yan has never told a lie!¡± When Li Shi saw Sang Wan remain quiet, she hurriedly exined.


    ¡°I never would¡¯ve expected such a thing.¡± Sang Wan smiled faintly and responded, ¡°Second Aunt, don¡¯t worry. When Sister Sang Rou gets married, you will definitely not be embarrassed! It¡¯s about time she finds someone to settle down with and you should be helping her with it!¡±


    Otherwise, trouble might brew in the future.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. When I go back, I¡¯ll see if there is anyone suitable for her!¡± Seeing Sang Wan speaking for Sang Rou, Li Shi could not help but look at her in disdain as she said quietly to herself: I¡¯ve never seen anyone like you. You¡¯re helping that vixen even though she had nned to snatch your man away!


    Sang Wan was no longer in the mood to carry on. There was no way she could reason with a person like Li Shi, so as long as she understood not to stir up any trouble, it was good enough.


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now. I¡¯ll have Liu Ya to lead you and Sister Sang Yan to have some rest.¡± Sang Wan told her.


    Li Shi still had more to say. However, when Sang Yan heard that, she suddenly felt as if the torture was finally lifted. Without feeling shy and embarrassed, she quickly pulled Li Shi¡¯s sleeve, ¡°Mother, I¡¯m tired. Let¡¯s go back and rest. Sister Sang Wan must be feeling tired too after a long day. She still has to wake up early in the morning to greet the Shi family¡¯s Old Mistress tomorrow...¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but look at Sang Yan and said to herself: Second Aunt and Second Uncle are such single-minded people but Third Sister seems pure and likeable. She is much better than her parents.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll go ahead first.¡± Li Shi could not bear to refuse when she saw her daughter looking at her pathetically. At the thought of the things that Sang Wan had allowed her to take back the next day, as well as the sight of Sang Wan looking indifferent and not wanting to speak anymore, she pulled on Liu Ya as she left before asking, ¡°Didn¡¯t Sang Wan say she will let us bring back some things? Send them to meter and I will pack them up. Don¡¯t forget to pack the snacks that you mentioned into a box for me to bring them back to eat...¡±


    ¡°Mother...¡± Sang Yan¡¯s face immediately turned red.


    Feeling helpless and not knowing whether tough or cry, Liu Ya could only say with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress, you don¡¯t have to worry. I will pack them upter on and wrap them properly before giving them to you tomorrow morning. I assure you there won¡¯t be any mistakes!¡±


    When Li Shi heard that, she left her be.


    In the warm room, Sang Wan was still feeling dejected in her heart, as if she had swallowed a fly and felt extremely ufortable. She stared at thentern by the side for a moment before calling the servants to prepare pen and ink. She was going to write a letter to her eldest brother and sister-inw.


    She had never expected Li Shi toe over today. As such, what had happened today must not happen for the second time. She had to inform her big brother and sister-inw about it so that they could be more vignt against them in the future.


    Early the next morning, Sang Wan personally sent Li Shi and Sang Yan off. When the horse carriage finally disappeared from her sight, she felt relieved.


    After Sang Wan returned to Ning Garden1, she washed her face, rinsed her mouth, and ate breakfast before heading to Wang Shi¡¯s ce to pay respects when it was almost time. She coincidentally met Gu Fangzi at the entrance and the two of them went in together.


    As usual, after paying their respects, they would stay and talk with Wang Shi.


    Gu Fangzi nced at Sang Wan and spoke with a smile, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I met your second aunt and cousin yesterday in the garden. Why didn¡¯t you bring them to meet Aunt Wang?¡±


    Sang Wan tightened her fists. Luckily, she had sent Li Shi back early. Otherwise, there would be no way to shake it off.


    ¡°Oh?¡± Wang Shi was astonished and she said to Sang Wan with a smile, ¡°Second Old Mistress Sang came yesterday? Sang Wan, why didn¡¯t you tell me yesterday? Quickly invite them here and let me have a look at them!¡±


    Wang Shi had met the Sang family¡¯s brothers as well as Fang Shi. As such, she had a good impression of the Sang family. Now that Sang Wan¡¯s family was here, she naturally would not neglect them.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Gu Fangzi added with a smile, ¡°When I saw them in the garden yesterday, I was only able to greet them. I wasn¡¯t able to formally pay my respects to her!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly stood up and replied to Wang Shi with a smile, ¡°I was about to tell Mother about it but Sister Fangzi ended up mentioning it first! My second aunt and third cousin happened to pass by yesterday. Because they had things to settle, they left early in the morning today. Yesterday, I wanted to let Mother know they were here, but I was afraid that you must be tired after the banquet so I did not. There will still be a chance to meet them in the future so there isn¡¯t any need to hurry.¡±


    When Wang Shi heard that Li Shi had already left, she let out a regretful sigh before saying with a smile, ¡°She¡¯s your elder after all, how can I not meet them on their first visit here? We¡¯ll just be sitting down to talk in the end but you had too many considerations! Don¡¯t do that next time. Otherwise, others might say that I neglect them!¡±


    ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll bear that in mind! Because they are not outsiders, I did not think so thoroughly.¡± Sang Wan hurriedly answered with a smile.


    Wang Shi smiled and nodded, hinting for her to return to her seat.


    Gu Fangzi also smiled but could not help but look hatefully at Sang Wan. Without even needing to think, she was already expecting the scenario where Second Old Mistress Sang meets Old Mistress Shi and she would speak to her heart¡¯s content to make the wellposed Sang Wan lose her standing! Unfortunately, that foolish woman had left unexpectedly. Needless to say, it must have been Sang Wan¡¯s doing.


    Deep down, Gu Fangzi could not help but be angry. If she had known that they would be leaving, she would have informed her aunt about their arrivalst night. She did not think that Sang Wan would be so ruthless.


    After sitting for a while, Sang Wan took her leave.


    She did not walk far before she heard someone calling her from behind. Not too longter, Gu Fangzi caught up with her.


    Sang Wan stopped in her tracks and turned around to nce behind.


    Gu Fangzi went up to her and dismissed the servants around her. She snorted at Sang Wan before she said faintly, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, you¡¯re so quick to send them away, could it be that Second Old Mistress Sang isn¡¯t fit to meet with my aunt? After all, you sent them back so early in the morning. I find her quite amusing so I¡¯m sure my aunt will like her. It¡¯s too bad that she wasn¡¯t able to meet her. You should really let her know how out of the ordinary your family is!¡±


    Sang Wan replied with a smile, ¡°My second aunt really has some things to settle so she ended up leaving in a hurry, so why must you say it in such a way? I never knew you hit off well with her. This must be what others call ¡®birds of a feather flock together¡¯! If I knew how reluctant you were to part with her, I would have asked you to see her off!¡±


    Gu Fangzi immediately pulled a face and said with a cold smile, ¡±Sister Sang Wan, you¡¯ve be better at acting. She is your Second Aunt, so what does she have to do with me? As for categorizing into groups, shouldn¡¯t she and Sister Sang Wan be grouped together? No wonder you¡¯re so anxious to send them back. If my aunt were to see them, your face would be lost. Not just that, she might even assume your personality to be simr to hers!¡±


    Sang Wan replied coldly, ¡°It¡¯s not up to you to shoot your mouth about my family. If you have such thoughts, you might as well pay more attention to people from your Gu family! Those are your true rtives! Gu Fangzi, let me warn you. I¡¯m well aware of what you were trying to do yesterday. If you do that again, don¡¯t me me for being impolite!¡±¡°So what?¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression sank and she answered back coldly, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ve yed the innocent one and snatched my Big Cousin away. Now, you strut around and pressure him with your status. You even urged him to chase me away! When have you been polite to me? Sang Wan, you have to know when to be content! I¡¯ll say the same back to you. If you dare to chase me away, don¡¯t me me for being impolite!¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head. ¡°I really have nothing more to say to you! You¡¯ve grown up with him and know him better than me. If there is really any love between the two of you, what can I do to influence his decision? You¡¯re the one who¡¯s misjudged him! I¡¯m sure you were clear about our engagement, yet you still got close to him. If you want someone to me, you only have yourself to do so. No matter what the oue is, you have reaped what you sow! By ming everything on me, Gu Fangzi, aren¡¯t you just embarrassing yourself?¡±


    Gu Fangzi was taken aback as she looked at Sang Wan. There was a buzzing in her head and she could not retort.


    Sang Wan could not be bothered about her anymore and left.


    Gu Fangzi stood in a daze and her tightly clenched fists trembled slightly. In the quiet environment, she could clearly hear her own heartbeat and slightly uneven breathing.


    The sun shone brightly above her head and the cool breeze blew lightly against her. The faint shadow on the ground could not help but sway slightly. Even though the sun was shining warmly, Gu Fangzi felt ice-cold and her eyes were in a daze, almost as if the world in her eyes had changed.


    ¡°Was I really in the wrong? That¡¯s right, I got close to Big Cousin intentionally, but what¡¯s wrong with that? He¡¯s outstanding and wealthy. Am I wrong for admiring and wanting him? He used to care about me, surely that¡¯s because he likes me... Since when did that start to change? Unless... he has never liked me at all!¡±


    Gu Fangzi mumbled to herself. The more she thought, the more confused and discouraged she got. Her heart ached so much that tears gradually welled up in her eyes.


    ¡°No! That can¡¯t be!¡± Gu Fangzi shook her head and wiped the tears in her eyes with her handkerchief. She clenched her teeth and said hatefully, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re the one spouting nonsense! If not for you, things wouldn¡¯t have be like this...¡±


    ¡°Missy, we should go back!¡± Lan Xiang, who was at the side, witnessed the drastic changes in her expression. She saw grief, indignation, sadness, and anger. As such, she could not help worrying and stepped forward to support Gu Fangzi by the arm.


    ¡°Let go!¡± Gu Fangzi shook her off with all her might and said coldly, ¡°I don¡¯t need you to help me! I can walk on my own!¡¯


    All along, she had believed that the only reliable person in this world was herself. Whatever she wanted, she had to fight for it on her own because nobody would give way to her!


    Sang Wan thought that after the confrontation, her days after would at least be somewhat peaceful. However, little did she know that in the afternoon when she was about to have her lunch, Xiu Chun suddenly barged in. She was anxious and panicky, and her face was pale. Without waiting for Sang Wan to ask, Xiu Chun said, ¡°Young Mistress, not good, not good! Please hurry over to Old Mistress¡¯s ce. Something happened to Young Master!¡±

 Chapter 229 - Something Has Happened To Shi Fengju

    <h4>Chapter 229: Something Has Happened To Shi Fengju</h4>


    After a brief moment of silence, Sang Wan dropped her chopsticks and got up anxiously.


    ¡°What did you say? What happened?¡± Sang Wan swayed slightly and her entire body seemed unstable. The news was abrupt!


    ¡°Something happened to Young Master? Who said it? Where is the person who came with the report? Tell me what happened quickly!¡± Before Xiu Chun could respond, Nanny Li arrived in a hurry. Her face was even more anxious and worried than Sang Wan, and her hands kept pulling at Xiu Chun without stopping. The expressions of all the servants in the house had changed as they stared at Xiu Chun.


    ¡°I, I...¡± Xiu Chun was startled by everyone¡¯s response. She stammered and was unable to say anything.


    ¡°Nanny Li!¡± Sang Wan refrained from fainting and pulled on Nanny Li, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go to Mother¡¯s ce now...¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Nanny Li, who was flustered, held onto Sang Wan as they staggered out and almost fell, which made the rest of the servants cry out in fear.


    In the main courtyard, the situation was worse. When Sang Wan went in, she saw Zhang Huan kneeling in the hall and Wang Shi wailing Shi Fengju¡¯s name. By the side, Nanny Jiang and Xiu Li were painfullyforting her.


    The atmosphere was miserable.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s nose turned sour and tears started welling up in her eyes. She took a few steps forward and knelt beside Wang Shi before tugging her sleeve and asking as she tried not to cry, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be upset. If Lord sees you like this, how would he feel? Mother, what exactly happened? It wasn¡¯t the first time he went out on a trip so there¡¯s no way he was unprepared. He also has experienced servants following him. No matter how big the problem, he will surely ovee it! Mother, you mustn¡¯t be agitated!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress, Young Mistress is right. Young Master will definitely ovee it! If you fall ill from crying, Young Master will surely be worried when he returns,¡± Nanny Li quickly added.


    Zhang Huan did not expect Wang Shi to have such a reaction and became startled for a moment. While lost in thought, he noticed Sang Wan giving him a firm re which returned him to his senses. He hurriedly crawled ahead and kowtowed a few times before whimpering, ¡°Old Mistress was given a huge scare because I did not exin the situation clearly enough. Old Mistress, please do not worry. There is a famous doctor taking care of him as we¡¯re speaking. Young Master will surely be fine. The injuries on him... are superficial.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Wang Shi stopped weeping and gazed at Zhang Huan.


    ¡°Yes, yes,¡± Zhang Huan hurriedly said, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to deceive Old Mistress!¡±


    ¡°Fengju, my son! You have to return safe and sound! Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t want to live anymore!¡± Wang Shi once again covered her face and cried loudly. However, Nanny Jiang and the rest quietly heaved a sigh of relief as they knew that she cried because she hade around.


    Nanny Li¡¯s tears were already falling like rain. She went up andforted Wang Shi together with Nanny Jiang, and they eventually managed to do so with much difficulty.


    Wang Shi wiped off her tears. When she saw Sang Wan still kneeling beside her, she helped her up, ¡°Sang Wan, get up! Don¡¯t cry anymore!¡±


    Sang Wan did what she had been told and got up. Her tears that were streaming down her face like a string of broken pearls immediately stopped as well.


    ¡°Tell me in detail just what exactly happened!¡± Wang Shi told Sang Wan to have a seat first and sort out her feelings before asking Zhang Huan again.


    ¡°Aunt Wang! Aunt Wang! What happened to Big Cousin? What happened to him?¡± Before Zhang Huan could exin, Gu Fangzi rushed in like a gust of wind. Once she saw Wang Shi, her tears started streaming down her face. She then threw herself in Wang Shi¡¯s embrace and started bawling as she hugged her. While she cried, she kept wailing for her aunt and Shi Fengju.


    Wang Shi, whose feelings had only just calmed down after much difficulty, could not help but feel devastated again. She wrapped her arms around Gu Fangzi¡¯s head and cried bitterly.


    Nanny Li red hatefully at Gu Fangzi. Zhang Huan was about to tell them what happened. However, this unruly thing came in and interrupted him!


    Nanny Jiang also frowned slightly. Wang Shi was an elder so it was not good for her health to receive the shocking news of what happened to her beloved son. They had persuaded her with much difficulty, but their efforts hade to naught because of Gu Fangzi! If she truly cared about the elders, how could she disregard Wang Shi¡¯s health?


    Both Sang Wan and Nanny Li were quietly frustrated as well. They hurriedly went tofort Wang Shi again. Nanny Jiang also went tofort Wang Shi first before she nced over at Xiu Chun, Xiu Li, and the other servants to pull Gu Fangzi away forcefully.


    Gu Fangzi wept and hugged Wang Shi, unwilling to let go as she cried out for her cousin sorrowfully.


    Sang Wan could no longer watch any further and shouted loudly at Gu Fangzi before saying calmly, ¡°Lord only met with a minor mishap. He¡¯ll definitely be alright. What are you trying to do by crying like this?¡±


    ¡°How can it be just a minor mishap? He...¡± Gu Fangzi realized the situation after a while and quickly became quiet. She wiped her tears and said, ¡°Aunt Wang, Big Cousin will be fine. Please don¡¯t feel sad anymore!¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu, please step aside and take a seat! That way, Zhang Huan can quickly tell us everything!¡± Nanny Li red at Gu Fangzi unhappily and told herself: You can still say that right now? Young Mistress is right. What are you trying to do by crying like this? When your father passed away, you didn¡¯t even shed as many tears! Pah, pah! Dear me, what am I saying!


    Xiu Chun and Xiu Li assisted Lan Xiang in helping Gu Fangzi to a seat. Upon seeing Wang Shi finally calming down once again, Sang Wan then ordered Zhang Huan, ¡°Spill it!¡±


    Zhang Huan nodded and told them the entire story.


    It turned out that when Shi Fengju was searching for Shi Fengming in Dezhou, he soon heard that Shi Fengming and that woman had left Dezhou and went south. As for where, he did not know.


    Although Shi Fengju could not find him, he could at the very least provide an exnation to Second Uncle Shi and Second Aunt Shi with the news that Shi Fengming was safe and sound. Being away from home for a long while, Shi Fengju missed his mother and Sang Wan, so he intended to return home quickly. He instructed all the shopkeepers in the southern cities to be on a lookout. Once there was news about Shi Fengming¡¯s whereabouts, they were to send someone to tail him and report back.


    When the boat anchored at Handan¡¯s dock to replenish their supplies, Shi Fengju had set his heart on returning home as quickly as possible so he did not climb ashore to stay in an inn. He lodged in the boat cabin and waited for the boat to start early the next morning. Who knew that in the middle of the night, one of the boats had caught fire. The fire was intense and nobody realized it in the dead of the night. Soon, many boats that had anchored at the dock went up in mes. Shi Fengju¡¯s boat was not spared.


    On that night, the raging ze reflected a sheet of red on the water surface. The crackling sounds of fire could be heard and thick smoke surged from all sides. The people were wailing like ghosts and howling like wolves at the scene. It was chaotic!


    In the midst of the chaos, Shi Fengju was hit by a falling pir that was on fire and fell into the water. He was unconscious when he was rescued.


    The physician said that the smoke had heavily weakened his body and a heavy object knocked him unconscious. As such, he could not guarantee whether Shi Fengju would regain consciousness, but he would do his best.


    Zhang Huan and the others also suffered injuries but were conscious. Once they heard this, they panicked and went to plead with the physician. They also went around to ask whether there were any famous physicians in the nearby cities. They were clear that if Shi Fengju had met with death, their Old Mistress would definitely tear them apart. Moreover, they had followed Shi Fengju for so many years and would want to see him get well soon.


    Three days had already gone by but Shi Fengju still remained unconscious. After a quick discussion, the servants did not dare to dy any further. Everyone else stayed to watch over their master while Zhan Huan hired a carriage to return to Qingzhou and report the incident. Nobody dared to decide on what to do next. The Masters should be the ones to do so!


    ¡°Good for nothing! How do all of you even serve him?¡± When Gu Fangzi heard the story, she rushed up to Zhang Huan and said hatefully, ¡°How are all of you still fine while Big Cousin has to be the one who met with such a thing! How can you put your lives ahead of your master in such a situation? All of you are servants who betrayed your Master! If anything happens to Big Cousin, I won¡¯t spare your lowly lives!¡±


    ¡°I deserve to die!¡± Zhang Huan was so frightened that he shrunk his neck and kowtowed as if his life depended on it.


    ¡°Heng, so you¡¯re aware that you deserve to die! Zhan Huan, Big Cousin has always thought highly of you, yet this is how you repay him? Let me ask you. Where were you when it happened? How could you not be by his side!¡± Gu Fangzi frowned angrily.


    Tears welled up in Wang Shi¡¯s eyes and she lifted her handkerchief to wipe them off. She then red hatefully at Zhan Huan.


    ¡°Sister Fangzi!¡± Sang Wan anxiously yelled at Gu Fangzi to stop before looking at Wang Shi, ¡°Mother, this is not the time to point fingers. Zhang Huan, how is Lord¡¯s condition? What did the physician say? Did his condition take a turn for the better? Hurry up and tell us in full detail!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Zhan Huan. Hurry up and tell us!¡± Nanny Li also said anxiously.


    Zhang Huan was slightly relieved and he hurriedly exined, ¡°As to what Young Mistress asked, we invited Physician Li who is the most famous physician in Handan city. The abrasions and burns on Master have been treated and his wounds are bandaged after applying medicine. He did not suffer any other serious injuries. Since it is not hot this season, Physician Li said that we just have to look after him and make sure his wounds do not get infected to avoid him having a fever. It¡¯s just that since Master was hit by a heavy object on his head and choked on the smoke, he is still unconscious... Ah, however, he is breathing steadily and looks normal. Physician Li said that it is likely due to a blood clot in his head, so he performs acupuncture everyday on him. As long as the clot in his head is gone, he will wake up!¡±


    ¡°That means he is still unconscious now?¡± Wang Shi was saddened and anxious upon hearing him. ¡°How do you and the rest of the servants serve him! Fengju too, why is he so careless! If anything happens to him, who can I rely on?¡±


    Zhang Huan moved his lips as if wanting to say something. Eventually, he kept quiet and lowered his head.


    ¡°Did Physician Li mention when he would wake up?¡± Wang Shi hurriedly asked.


    Zhang Huan replied, ¡°Physician Li, Physician Li said... said he can¡¯t be sure! Old Mistress, this is why I came back in a hurry. You have to tell us what we should do next!¡± Zhan Huan clenched his teeth and said. He would face the same punishment regardless of what was decided. No matter the oue, servants like them could only face it. There was no way to avoid it!


    Wang Shi groaned and fell onto her seat.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly went to support Wang Shi. ¡°Mother, which physician can tell us anything for certain? How can Mother not know? Since the cause of his unconsciousness is already diagnosed and Physician Li is willing to prescribe medicine and perform acupuncture on Young Master, that means he can be saved! Who knows, he might have regained consciousness after Zhan Huan left to report to us!¡±

 Chapter 230 - Disagreement On Who To Set Out

    <strong>Chapter 230: Disagreement On Who To Set Out</strong>


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right! Young Mistress is right! Young Master has been in good health ever since he was young. He will definitely be fine!¡± Nanny Li said as she held back her tears.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Aunt Wang. Big Cousin will definitely regain consciousness! You can rest assured!¡± Gu Fangzi cried again.


    Wang Shi let out a long sigh. She held back her tears as she looked at Sang Wan and nodded her head slightly.


    ¡°Sister-inw! Is it true that something happened to Fengju? What exactly happened!¡± Soon after, Second Old Master Shi and his wife, as well as Third Old Master Shi and his wife arrived one after another.


    When Wang Shi saw them, she could not help but feel heart-broken again. How would she still have the energy to exin to them? Sang Wan, Nanny Jiang, and the rest hurriedlyforted her again as they exined what had happened briefly.


    When Second Old Mistress Shi heard the news that her son was fine, she felt great joy but kept her eyes low and her joy under control after being made aware of the situation. At the same time, Third Old Mistress Shi and others went to console Wang Shi.


    ¡°Sister-inw, don¡¯t worry. From the looks of it, Shi Fengju is in good hands since that physician knows medicine as well as acupuncture. Fengju will definitely be fine. We encountered a simr situation in Sichuan previously. Someone woke up after being unconscious for more than half a month and he was in his usual good health. Fengju is in a simr situation, so I¡¯m sure he will definitely regain consciousness!¡± Third Old Master Shi quickly added.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. My husband is right! I remember that as well. That man¡¯s situation was simr to Fengju!¡± Third Old Mistress Shi hurriedly spoke.


    ¡°Is that true?¡± Wang Shi¡¯s eyes lit up and she hurriedly asked. Sang Wan, Nanny Li, Gu Fangzi, and the others looked at Third Old Master Shi and his wife at the same time, almost as if it was finally affirmed that Shi Fengju would regain consciousness.


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s true!¡± Third Old Master Shi and his wife nodded.


    ¡°Sister-inw, I think we should send someone appropriate to take care of Fengju. That person will decide on our behalf if anything happens there! How can he only have servants there with him!¡± Third Old Master Shi suggested.


    After Wang Shi heard that, she slowly nodded her head. Zhan Huan must havee back with this intention. Moreover, she did not feel at ease when there were no close rtives beside him. If not for the long journey that would tire her body, she would have gone there personally.


    Both Second Old Mistress Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi were naturally not suitable. Second Old Master Shi only cared about his birds and fish, so he was unreliable. Therefore, Third Old Master Shi was clearly the most suitable. However, he was the one who suggested it and did not volunteer himself. In any case, if he had volunteered himself, would he do his best to nurse Shi Fengju back to health over there?


    Wang Shi was hesitant and unsettled. Gu Fangzi quickly got up and kneeled again before saying, ¡°Aunt Wang, please let me go! I¡¯m willing to take care of Big Cousin! Aunt Wang, you don¡¯t have to worry. I will bring him back in good health!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan also kneeled and said, ¡°Mother, let me go! He is my husband. Now that something like this has happened to him, if I¡¯m not by his side as his wife, it¡¯ll be hard for me to feel at ease. Mother, please let me go!¡±


    Sang Wan was silently upset that she was a step slower than Gu Fangzi. As such, she had to put in a lot of effort in her words. Ever since it was decided that one Master should head over there, she already had the intention. Who knew that just when she was hesitating on how she should go about requesting, Gu Fangzi had spoken first.


    Everyone was stunned for a moment.


    Upon seeing that the two of them had her son in their hearts, Wang Shi was gratified. However, she felt she was put in a difficult situation as well.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan.¡± Gu Fangzi said, ¡°Since this household is taken care of by you, how can you leave? It¡¯s better for me to go! Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely take good care of Big Cousin!¡±


    ¡°There is still Mother and the rest who can take care of the household. I¡¯ve always been taking care of Young Master. It¡¯ll naturally be more convenient for me to go instead of you! Mother, let me go. Otherwise, how can I be at ease! Mother, please let me go!¡±


    ¡°Young Mistress is right. Since she has the heart, you should let her go! I can help to handle the matters in the household. Young Mistress has always taken care of Young Master¡¯s daily life and knows what he wants. Nobody is more suitable than her to take care of him!¡± Nanny Li spoke in support of her.


    When Zhan Huan heard Gu Fangzi say she would go over, his head went numb and silentlyined. She had scolded him in the face just now. If she went over with him, he might get scolded even worse! Therefore, he stepped forward and cupped both his hands before saying, ¡°Old Mistress, I don¡¯t have the ce to speak. However, I have been by Young Master¡¯s side for a very long time. I know that he often misses Young Mistress so he will definitely want her to take care of him!¡±


    ¡°How dare a servant like you speak when you know there is no ce for you! Don¡¯t forget that you¡¯re guilty. What right do you have to speak!¡± Gu Fangzi was furious. She hadn¡¯t expected that even though she took the initiative, Sang Wan was still so thick-skinned as to request the same. As for Nanny Li, she had always been on Sang Wan¡¯s side, so it was not strange that she spoke up for her!


    There was nothing she could do against both of them. However, if Zhan Huan also chipped in and she did not speak up, then there would no longer be a ce for her in the household.


    After being scolded, Zhan Huan quickly lowered his head and did not dare to say anything more.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan.¡± Gu Fangzi¡¯s tears slowly came rolling down her pale face. Her eyes were teary as she begged Sang Wan with a pathetic look, ¡°Do you have to fight over this with me? Please let me go instead! I beg you! Let me take care of Big Cousin!¡±


    Gu Fangzi silently clenched her teeth hatefully. Not caring about how others would view her, she went up to Sang Wan and kowtowed.


    Everyone gasped in shock at her actions.


    Sang Wan was embarrassed, furious, and frustrated. This woman is really shameless!


    ¡°This won¡¯t do!¡± Sang Wan promptly stepped forward with Nanny Li to help Gu Fangzi up as she said, ¡°Sister Fangzi, Young Master is important, but so is Mother! You¡¯re most familiar with her. With youforting and being by her side, I can go there without any worries! Let us end this here! ¡°


    Third Old Mistress also spoke with a smile, ¡°Since the two of you are hardly this nervous about Fengju, this is his blessing! Sister-inw, I think sending Sang Wan there makes more sense! Fangzi will stay behind and apany you while Sang Wan goes! They¡¯re husband and wife after all so it¡¯s more convenient to take care of him! Although Fangzi volunteered, it¡¯ll not be convenient for someone like her who hasn¡¯t sealed the deal with him yet. It¡¯ll also bring shame to her family if she went!¡±


    Wang Shi nodded, ¡°Third Sister-inw, you are right. Sang Wan, go back and pack your things. Be on your way early in the morning tomorrow! It¡¯ll be hard on you during the journey. Once you arrive at the ce, quickly write a letter to me after seeing the situation there, got it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother! Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t dare to dy on the road. I will write a letter to you when I reach!¡± Sang Wan acknowledged respectfully.


    Wang Shi nodded and said to Gu Fangzi, ¡°Fangzi, stay here and apany me! Don¡¯t worry too. Fengju will be fine!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was feeling disappointed. Nobody in the household had spoken up for her and everyone favored Sang Wan. An extreme resentment rushed up her head in a split second and she nearly vomited blood. So what if she wasn¡¯t happy about the decision? Wang Shi had even spoken, she would only beughed at if she still insisted.


    ¡°Yes, Aunt Wang! I will apany you well and pray that Big Cousin will be able toe back safe and sound!¡± Gu Fangzi nodded her head obediently.


    Everyone consoled Wang Shi for a while more before they left. Sang Wan hurriedly returned to Ning Garden1 to pack her traveling bag. She ordered for a horse carriage to be prepared, arranged servants to tag along, and handed over the household matters. The people in Ning Garden were so busy that they did not have the time to have their dinner properly.


    When it was veryte at night and everything else had been settled, Liu Ya, Zhide, and the others went to check the luggage again.


    This time, Sang Wan picked Liu Ya and two other young capable servants to go on the journey. She also picked four more servants for protection while Nanny Li and Zhide stayed behind to look after the house.


    ¡°Nanny Li, I¡¯ll have to trouble you again!¡± Sang Wan sighed lightly.


    ¡°Young Mistress, don¡¯t say that! This is what I should do!¡± Nanny Li also sighed and felt a lump in her throat. She then added, ¡°You have to bring Young Master back! Nothing must happen to him!¡±


    ¡°Nanny Li, don¡¯t worry. I will.¡± Sang Wan also felt the same way.


    Nanny Li knew she had lost control of herself and hurriedly blinked her eyes to get rid of the tears before saying with a forced smile, ¡°Just look at that, what shallow thoughts I have! Young Master is going to be fine so we shouldn¡¯t let our imaginations run wild! Young Mistress, it¡¯s gettingte. Rest early. You have to be on the road early in the morning tomorrow. The road might get bumpy, so you have to take care! Don¡¯t worry about the household. Nobody will dare do anything. Even if they do, I will report it to the Old Mistress and let her handle it!¡±


    Sang Wan nodded her head. Nanny Li and her gave a few more words offort to each other before they parted. Sang Wan washed her face and rinsed her mouth before going into her room to rest.


    How could she fall asleep? It was as if a corner of her heart had been dug out and she did not know when it would be filled up again. Her heart was so empty that she felt uneasy and it would elerate without a reason. All she could think of was Shi Fengju. The sorrow, the joy, the despair, the peace, and the other parts of life that he had given her in her past and current life constantly appeared in her head. The thought of whether he would regain consciousness disturbed her a lot.


    She always had him in her life, regardless of whether it was by her wish or not, and she had never thought ofpletely having a life without him. Upon hearing this news, she undoubtedly felt shocked and saddened. At the same time, she was flustered and at a loss as well.


    In her two lifetimes, could it be that it would end with a tragedy where each had their own grief!


    After tossing and turning for a night, she could vaguely be seen through the curtain getting out of bed.


    Liu Ya, Zhide, Nanny Li, and the others had gotten up as well. Despite the dejected atmosphere, the servants helped Sang Wan freshen up. Nanny Li ordered the young and old servants to carry the luggage out one by one.


    After she was done freshening up, the kitchen served a bowl of piping hot porridge and light snacks.


    ¡°This morning¡¯s breakfast is a bowl of shredded chicken porridge with fresh prawn dumplings and steamed milk buns. Young Mistress, eat them while they¡¯re hot. The horse carriage is already prepared outside the second gate. You should be on your way after breakfast!¡± Nanny Li advised.


    How could Sang Wan still have the appetite? She shook her head with a bitter smile on her face as she tried to eat a few mouthfuls of porridge before putting the spoon down and rinsing her mouth. When she saw Liu Ya was done eating and was waiting for her, she went out with Nanny Li and the rest of the servants.

 Chapter 231 - Hurrying On The Journey

    <strong>Chapter 231: Hurrying On The Journey</strong>


    Not long after leaving Ning Garden1, she saw Nanny Jiang approach with two servants. Nanny Jiang stepped forward and said with a smile, ¡°Old Mistress told me to send you off. She also said that you have to take care on the journey! When you arrive there, don¡¯t forget to write a letter back!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly answered. She urged Nanny Jiang to serve Wang Shi well as she could not fulfill her duty as a daughter-inw and stay with her mother-inw. After that, they left on the journey.


    As the carriage wheels rumbled, the horse carriage soon disappeared from the sight of Nanny Li and the rest. In the horse carriage which shook slightly, Sang Wan looked gloomy as she sighed silently to herself.


    After being on the road for seven days, the horse carriage finally entered the tall city walls of Handan City.


    ¡°Young Mistress, we¡¯re here. We¡¯re finally here!¡± Zhan Huan, who was riding on a horse beside the carriage, shouted in delight.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart thumped and she grew flustered.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya was also very nervous and could not help but hold onto her arm tightly.


    The horse carriage stopped in the backyard of Yu Fu Inn before everyone got down. After helping Sang Wan down, Zhan Huan called a servant from the inn over and instructed him to quickly report to Zhu Courtyard¡¯s Head Servant Zhang that the Young Mistress had arrived. He also instructed the rest of the servants to help move the luggage into Zhu Courtyard. It was the courtyard booked by Shi Fengju and the rest.


    ¡°Young Mistress, Young Master is resting in that courtyard! Pleasee this way!¡± Zhan Huan led the way.


    Sang Wan wore a veil hat and nodded her head slightly. She took a few slow steps forward with the support of Liu Ya but almost fell to the ground as her legs turned soft.


    ¡°Young Mistress, are you alright!¡± Liu Ya was frightened and supported her with her strength. The two married women from Shi Zhong family and Wu Da family also hurriedly stepped forward to support her.


    ¡°I¡¯m... alright!¡± Sang Wan steadied her breathing and kept the intense beating of her heart under control before continuing forward.


    The closer she approached the courtyard, the faster her heart thumped. She could feel her temples on both sides of her head constantly thumping and her legs growing weaker as if she was going to fall onto the ground at any moment without being able to take a step further.


    ¡°Young Mistress! Young Mistress, you¡¯re here!¡± When Sang Wan and the rest entered the gate of the Zhu Courtyard and she took off her hat, Head Servant Zhang quickly weed her. He wore an ochre-colored dark-patterned thin hemp-clothed long robe with a happy look on his slim bronze-colored face. He stepped forward and cupped his hands before bowing respectfully to Sang Wan, saying with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, do not worry. Young Master has already regained consciousness! However, the injuries on his leg and arm have yet to recover. He is now lying in bed! When he heard that you wereing, he instructed me to wee you and let you know to not worry!¡±


    ¡°Is this true!¡± Everyone was in great spirits and even Zhan Huan opened his eyes wide with a face full of joy.


    ¡°Young Master has woken up! This is good news, this is good news!¡± Sang Wan did not know what to say at the moment but her smile unconsciously reached her eyes. She felt overly-excited, as though the blood in her was rushing towards her throat. The words she wanted to say werepletely blocked and she could only smile.


    ¡°Yes. Two days after Zhan Huan left, Young Master woke up! Bodhisattva is really with him! Young Mistress, go in quickly! I¡¯m sure he¡¯s delighted to hear that you¡¯vee!¡± Head Servant Zhang chuckled and said with a smile.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face grew slightly hot and she hurriedly asked Head Servant Zhang, ¡°Have you sent someone to report back so that Mother can be at ease?¡±


    ¡°I have sent someone there as quickly as possible the moment our Young Master woke up! I think that the messenger must¡¯ve brushed past you on the road!¡± Head Servant Zhang exined.


    Head Servant Zhang was feeling somewhat awkward when he said that. When Shi Fengju regained consciousness and heard that everyone was safe, he was relieved. However, he became furious when he heard that Zhan Huan had gone back to report and ask for a decision; he scolded Head Servant Zhang and the rest badly. He then immediately instructed a servant to head back to report to the household as quickly as possible.


    None of these servants had a brain. When the news arrived at the household, how worried would his mother be? She would probably fall ill in that instant! Sang Wan and Nanny Li would also be worried.


    ¡°That¡¯s good then!¡± Sang Wan nodded with a smile and her footsteps became quicker.


    The main building of the Zhu Courtyard was a building with two floors and three rooms with a wing on both sides. Shi Fengju rested upstairs and Head Servant Zhang made his bed on the floor to take care of him. Qian He and the few male servants slept among the partition downstairs, leaving the wings of both sides vacant. Now with the female servants, they had to rearrange. Head Servant Zhang, Qian He, and the male servants naturally could no longer stay in the main building and had to move to the wings. Sang Wan was not worried about such trivial matters. Head Servant Zhang led her into the house and took her upstairs to visit Shi Fengju.


    When Shi Fengju woke up, he heard that Zhan Huan had returned to the household and brought someone over. Although he was angry at the servants for being useless and insensible, he anticipated Sang Wan to be the oneing. Once he heard that it was indeed her today, he was ecstatic. The corners of his mouth raised slightly, revealing a shining smile. He hurriedly instructed Qian He and Qian Xiang to bring over his robe and help him wear it. Theybed his hair, wiped his face, and dressed him up neatly to see the pampered wife that he missed.


    Qian He and Qian Xiang had received many scoldings those past few days and nervously stayed with their angry Master the whole day as if they were going to lose their lives at any moment. At this moment, when they saw how happy their Master finally was, the two of them appeared to be happier as their hands and feet were swift as they helped him to prepare himself.


    When Sang Wan stepped in, Shi Fengju had fixed himself up properly and was lying against the bed couch. He wore a silver-blue silk long robe embroidered with dark round patterns as he looked at Sang Wan with a slight smile.


    When their eyes met, it was as if she had been sucked into his deep ck pupils and she stared at him in a daze, causing her not to move as her legs felt heavy. Her red lips trembled slightly as if she wanted to say something but eventually did not. She bit onto her lips and her tears uncontrobly fell.


    ¡°Sang Wan! Come,e here!¡± Shi Fengju sighed softly and extended his arms towards her with a smile.


    ¡°Fengju!¡± Sang Wan sobbed as she called out his name and rushed into his embrace before she started crying bitterly without a sound. Her delicate shoulders trembled slightly.


    ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan.¡± Shi Fengju tightly embraced her and lowered his head to kiss her beautiful hair. He gently caressed her with tender affection and put his chin on her head as he said softly, ¡°Foolish Sang Wan, am I not fine now? Don¡¯t cry anymore. Don¡¯t cry!¡±


    Despite him coaxing her in a low and gentle voice, she did not know why she had so many tears. He was already fine so she should be smiling. However, her tears flowed down her face continuously.


    Since pacifying was useless, he finally gave up with a bitter smile. He only embraced her and lightly patted her back to show hisfort and allowed her to cry as much as she wanted.


    After some time, Sang Wan gradually stopped crying and her body grew slightly stiff. She hurriedly broke free of his embrace and turned her head around.


    When Shi Fengju saw that she was a bit nervous and shy, he chuckled and pulled her head back to face him before he made her sit beside him. He then said with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Everyone left when you came in. Nobody saw how you cried!¡±


    ¡°You...¡± He had guessed her thoughts. She took another glimpse of the front of his robe. The blue material had turned dark blue from her tears. Since it was all because of her, she felt embarrassed and quickly asked, ¡°Are your injuries serious? Does it still hurt?¡±


    Shi Fengju held onto her hands, unwilling to let it go, and replied with a smile, ¡®It doesn¡¯t hurt anymore. The injury on my arm is light and formed a scab. My lower left leg suffered a slight fracture but the physician set it back properly. I will recoverpletely after ten to twenty days. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°You fractured your leg!¡± Sang Wan jumped from the fright and hurriedly lifted the nket. As expected, she saw his lower leg pressed between a nk and wrapped in thick snow-white gauze. A pungent medicinal smell assaulted her nose.


    She grew tense and carefully put the light and soft nket back again. She said with a frown, ¡°That Zhan Huan has be dishonest. He said that you had recovered from your superficial injuries. Who knew...¡±


    ¡°That fellow ought to be beaten,¡± Shi Fengju continued with a smile, ¡°However, he was quick-witted in this. In any case, a bone fracture is also a superficial injury. I¡¯ll be fine after recuperating. Why say it and make everyone more worried? I hate that this was reported back, which frightened everyone at home. Mother must have received quite a shock, right? I¡¯m worried just at the thought of this!¡±


    Sang Wan hurriedly assured, ¡°Don¡¯t worry! Didn¡¯t Head Servant Zhang say that he had sent someone back to notify them as quickly as possible? I believe Mother will be fine once she hears that you¡¯ve regained consciousness!¡±


    Shi Fengju agreed and pulled her closer to him. He lifted his hands to cup her face and stroke her fair and tender cheek lightly. He rested his forehead on hers and said in a low voice with a smile, ¡°Were you worried about me? Hmm?¡±


    The two of them who had been separated for nearly two months were so intimate at this moment. His low voice echoed beside her face and the air he exhaled subsequently gushed onto her face. Sang Wan then started to blush and her heart thumped. She slightly moved her head back and softly replied, ¡°You¡¯re my husband. How can I not be worried?¡±


    Shi Fengju seemed satisfied and chuckled. He seized the chance to pull her in his embrace and could not be any happier as he eximed with a smile, ¡°After I woke up, I kept thinking of you and wished to see you. That Zhan Huan finally understood what I wanted and brought you here. Otherwise, I would definitely not spare him! Since you¡¯re here now, let me recuperate and I¡¯ll bring you to wander around. We¡¯ll have fun on the way home, alright?¡±


    Sang Wan was startled and could not help but think about them holding hands and gazing at the different sceneries. She was unconsciously fascinated and lightly nodded her head in agreement.


    Shi Fengju also smiled and spoke with his head lowered, ¡°You¡¯ll have to take good care of me. I¡¯ll recover as quickly as possible so that I can bring you out...¡±


    Upon hearing him acting slightly coquettish and shameless, Sang Wan burst outughing at him before telling him with her eyes raised in annoyance, ¡°You don¡¯t know how happy I am to see that you¡¯re fine after you woke up. Taking care of you is my duty as your wife. How can I be taking care of you so that you can take me out?¡±


    Shi Fengju was startled and startedughing loudly. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. I am muddle-headed! I should be punished.¡± With that, he held onto her hands and caressed them before striking a pose as her hand gently hit his face. Then, he suddenly pressed her hand against his cheek. He rubbed his cheek against her soft tiny hand and imitated an infant, ¡°Sang Wan, I really missed you.¡± After that, he lowered his head and kissed her red lips, pulling her into a kiss.


    Sang Wan snorted in a low voice before she closed her eyes and raised her head. She then remained softly in his embrace.


    The two of them were intimate and spoke about every kind of trivial matter. Without them knowing, the sky soon darkened. They came to their senses when they heard a knock from outside and Liu Ya¡¯s shouting. With one nce, the lighting in the room grew somewhat hazy.

 Chapter 232 - What Do I Do If You Didn’t Regain Consciousness?

    <strong>Chapter 232: What Do I Do If You Didn¡¯t Regain Consciousness?</strong>


    ¡°Oh look at the time! I don¡¯t know if you usually take your dinner or medicine first. Has the physician arrived?¡± Sang Wan hurriedly got up and tidied the hair near her temples before calling Liu Ya in.


    Liu Ya came in and lit the candles which illuminated the entire room. Head Servant Zhang also came in and said with a smile, ¡°Young Master, Physician Li is here. Would you...¡±


    Shi Fengju nced at Sang Wan. Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Since Physician Li is here, hurry and invite him in so that he can quickly have a look at Lord!¡±


    With that, she dodged to the back of the partition.


    ¡°Let Physician Li in!¡± Shi Fengju nodded his head.


    Head Servant Zhang acknowledged his words and went downstairs to receive him. Physician Li examined the wounds as per usual and checked on how he was doing. As he lightly pressed around Shi Fengju¡¯s body, he asked how he felt. Then, he checked the wound behind his head and told him with cupped fists, ¡°Congrattions, Young Master. Your injuries are healing well. As long as you change the dressings on time, take good care of your wounds, eat light and avoid spicy foods, you will be fine after some time. I will provide a prescription so have your servants pick the herbs ording to it. From now on, I will note every day but every four days to adjust the prescription based on your condition. If you have any doubts, you can send someone to call for me!¡±


    Shi Fengju felt fine. However, Head Servant Zhang had been worried for nothing, as such, Shi Fengju did not feel it was right to refuse his good intentions. However, now that Sang Wan was here, he was unwilling to see the physician twice a day. Now that his wish had been granted, there was a joyful smile on his face, ¡°We have troubled Physician Li! That¡¯s great! Head Servant Zhang, please send Physician Li off!¡±


    After they left, Sang Wan came out from behind the partition and said with a smile, ¡°Since Physician Li said so, clearly you are fine now! Are you hungry? Why don¡¯t I ask them to serve the food! I¡¯ll help you change your dressingster.¡±


    Seeing her nag and being concerned about him, he felt warm in his heart. With a smile, he looked at her and said, ¡°Anything is fine¡±.


    When Sang Wan saw that he clearly did not wish to be concerned about his injuries and every other trivial matter, she could only instruct with a smile.


    Head Servant Zhang and the others had experience serving him, so the food they prepared was in yet tasty. Since they were afraid his injuries would get inmed, there was no seafood but only ordinary chicken and pork. There was white gourd and short ribs soup, chicken and bean curd, fresh bamboo shoots and tenderloin meat, minced pork and steamed egg, stir-fried vegetables with lily and fungus, bok choy with chicken oil, and many more which were extremely light and refreshing.


    The two married maidservants went upstairs with the meal boxes andid the table in the middle of the hall. Head Servant Zhang, Zhan Huan, and the others helped Shi Fengju get off the bed and walk over. He then sat on a wide rattan chair with a backrest.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes glimmered. Before he could say anything, Head Servant Zhang had already led everyone to take their leave. In a split second, only both Shi Fengju and Sang Wan were left in the room.


    Head Servant Zhang had never attended to him closely but Zhan Huan knew in detail. He had quietly told him beforehand that when their Young Master was getting along with their Young Mistress, he did not like anyone else to be around. Therefore, he secretly took note of it. When he saw Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze, he knew that Zhan Huan was right.


    When Sang Wan saw that everyone had left, who else was there to serve him besides her? After all, he was a patient.


    She got up and put a bowl of soup gently before him and said with a smile, ¡°Drink some soup to warm your stomach first. Tell me what you want to eat and I¡¯ll take it for you.¡±


    Shi Fengju said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m fine. You don¡¯t have to bother about me. You must have been exhausted from your journey here. You should eat too!¡± With that, he held up the bowl of soup in his hands. He scooped a spoonful of soup and tested the temperature before putting it in front of her mouth.


    Sang Wan was in a daze and stared nkly at him.


    Shi Fengju chuckled with a smile. The porcin soup spoon touched her soft lips and he spoke with a smile, ¡°Have you gone dumb? Hurry and open your mouth!¡±


    Sang Wan rigidly opened her mouth and swallowed before she promptly said, ¡°I... I¡¯ll do it on my own. You should quickly eat some! Otherwise, the dishes will turn cold!¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shi Fengjuughed. Then, he lowered his head and slowly ate while chatting with her.


    A short while after eating, Sang Wan helped him to a seat on the couch. Under Head Servant Zhang¡¯s guidance, the two married maidservants came in with a wooden basin and a pot of jet-ck liquid medicine to clean Shi Fengju¡¯s wounds.


    After which, the ointment would be applied before wrapping the wounds with new gauze.


    Head Servant Zhang used to be the one doing it, but Sang Wan was naturally the one to do so now.


    Sang Wan cautiously took off the gauze and lifted her head to look at him from time to time. She said with a smile, ¡°Tell me if it hurts.¡±


    When Shi Fengju saw her kneeling down, he hugged his legs as she cautiously did it with attention. From above, he could see her thick and soft eyshes gently blinking from time to time and the tip of her small nose which was pale and cute. Her delicate and moist red lips had a faint healthy gloss that was particrly alluring. He unconsciously loved her even more. He extended his hands to stroke her face and neck before saying with a smile, ¡°You have always been attentive and gentle so it won¡¯t hurt! You¡¯re not rough like Head Servant Zhang!¡±


    Sang Wan sneered when she heard him. Her hands trembled and she avoided him by moving to the side. ¡°Stop messing around!¡±


    Before she could finish, he sighed and frowned.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± Sang Wan was angry yet amused. She hurriedly and cautiously supported his leg before mocking him, ¡°Don¡¯t move. Otherwise, I don¡¯t know when your wounds will recover if I end up hurting them!¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and retracted his hands before he pleaded, ¡°Sang Wan, after you change the dressing, have someone draw water for me to wipe my body, alright? I couldn¡¯t bathe these few days and it feels unbearable!¡±


    Although the two of them had the most intimate interactions before, it was often back at the household. Even though she was not unfamiliar with his body, she looked helplessly at him. To see him naked in front of her as she wiped his body clean, she found it ufortable and said somewhat shyly, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that after so many days, Head Servant Zhang never helped wipe your body clean? How can you bear this since you love cleanliness?¡±


    Shi Fengju had a face full of disgust and replied, ¡°As a grown man, how can I let the servants do such a thing to me? All these days, he only wiped my hands and feet. As for my body, I can clean it on my own! But, it¡¯s still somewhat inconvenient so I stopped doing it!¡±


    Sang Wan suppressed herughter without saying a word. She said in her heart: You have a lot of shorings. However, you¡¯re only deceiving yourself! You were fished up from the water dripping wet and they had to take off your clothes? While you were unconscious, how could they not help you wipe your body? You paid particr attention to it only after you woke up and the servants do not dare speak about it.


    ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m a pitiful patient. Will you help me? You¡¯re my wife...¡± When Shi Fengju saw she was silent, he pulled on her hands and shook them with a grin.


    ¡°I¡¯ll change your dressing first. Then, I¡¯ll help you to your bed so that you can lie down while I ask someone to bring hot water in!¡± Sang Wan was resigned to her fate. Since he had spoken, what else could she say? Anyway, the two of them were a couple. They had done everything behind closed doors, this alone wasn¡¯t much.


    After Shi Fengju saw she had agreed, he responded happily with a smile. He leaned on the couch and obediently allowed her to fiddle around without moving his hands or legs. When she asionally looked up at him, she revealed a gentle smile. Sang Wan often touched him so her heartbeat immediately increased and she lowered her head. This made Shi Fengjuugh silently as he nced at her in interest.


    The wound on his leg was over two fingers long and also very deep. However, it had recovered. Because of the liquid medicine, the originally light brown skin on his lower leg was covered with arge patch of ck.


    ¡°It must have hurt a lot at first, right?¡± Sang Wan felt somewhat sorry for him. She carefully supported his leg, wet a clean cotton cloth before she cautiously rinsed it and wiped him clean.


    ¡°What pain could I feel at that time? Thinking about it, I really am lucky! Since I¡¯m in your care from today onwards, it won¡¯t even hurt anymore!¡± Her soft hands lightly caressed his leg as if brushing past his heart with a fluffy soft brush. Shi Fengju loved the considerate side of her so much that he did not hate the process of dressing his wounds as much and even silently liked it.


    Sang Wan giggled. ¡°You said this since the matter is in the past. If... If I came but you¡¯re still not awake, I really don¡¯t know... Why am I saying such ominous words!¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and his mood lifted. He asked with a smile, ¡°If you came and I were still not awake, what would you do?¡±


    He had an absurd thought all of a sudden and there was silent regret in his heart. If he had known earlier, he would have pretended to be unconscious and watched her reaction. However, thinking about it, she would definitely lean on his body and cry in a grief-stricken manner. That would surely break his heart. He was then silently d that he had not done such an absurd thing.


    ¡°What can I still do?¡± Sang Wan answered with a smile, ¡°I naturally have to take care of you by your side and wait for you to wake up!¡±


    ¡°What if I remained unconscious?¡± Shi Fengju was addicted to asking her and did not want to let the matter go. Therefore, he questioned with a smile.


    ¡°Don¡¯t spout nonsense!¡± Sang Wan frowned slightly and replied with a stare, ¡°Who would curse himself? If Mother heard you, she would definitely punish you!¡±


    Shi Fengju startedughing and said, ¡°You know how to pressure me with my mother! Now that I¡¯m awake, what¡¯s the hurry? Sang Wan, you haven¡¯t answered me yet!¡±


    Without any hesitation, she replied, ¡°I will continue to take care of you by your side!¡±


    Shi Fengju was taken aback and was suddenly at a loss for words. After a while, he said, ¡°If I still don¡¯t wake up, won¡¯t it be your mistake since you¡¯ll keep on apanying me?¡± He paused and lost his smile. ¡°If I really did not wake up, I also wouldn¡¯t know what¡¯s best for you. I naturally hope for you to always be by my side. I want you to do that for a lifetime but I can¡¯t bear to see you suffer...¡±


    Shi Fengju seemed to be pondering over something and his voice slowly became softer. Sang Wan was immediately at a loss. She was his wife so she naturally had to be by his side, which was expected. However, she searched her heart for the most realistic way and was stupefied. Her heart was nk without any thoughts at all.

 Chapter 233 - Changing The Dressing

    <strong>Chapter 233: Changing The Dressing</strong>


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about this! Since I¡¯m fine now, saying this will only make us upset, won¡¯t it?¡± Shi Fengju suddenlyughed.


    Sang Wanughed too, feeling at a loss deep down. She nodded her head and responded with a smile, ¡°Exactly! We will really be wasting time over something that has no clear solution!¡±


    She helped to wipe and clean his wounds lightly with a clean cotton towel. She then gently applied an amber-colored ointment before rubbing slowly so that it would be absorbed into the skin. Then, she wrapped twoyers of gauze around the wound.


    After carefully putting his leg on the couch, Sang Wan was then relieved. She was so tired that her back ached and beads of sweat formed on her forehead.


    She then went to unbutton his gown to see the injury on his arm. It was much better than the one on his leg. As expected, there was a scar. She used the wet towel to wipe it clean before applying the ointment and wrapping the bandage over it which she very soonpleted.


    ¡°Let Head Servant Zhang and the reste tomorrow! It¡¯s been tiring on you!¡± When she lifted her head, Shi Fengju realized that she was sweating slightly on her forehead and she was a little short on breath. As a result, his heart could not help but ache a little.


    Sang Wan shook her head with a slight smile, and said gently, ¡°Men are rough, it¡¯ll be better if I do this instead! I¡¯ll be better at this when I do it again tomorrow!¡± Didn¡¯t she travel a long distance to take care of him? If she stood at the side andzily instructed a few servants to do work, then what was her arrival for?


    Shi Fengju felt happy that she was going to personally take care of him. He then chuckled without a word and thought of letting her rest more on the next day.


    After his wounds were wrapped, Sang Wan instructed the servants toe in and clear away the basin, towels, and other things. She then helped Shi Fengju rest on the bed. Before she could speak, Shi Fengju instructed the servants to bring in the hot water to wipe his body. Two women hurriedly agreed and went to get it prepared.


    Once the water was brought in, the servants lowered their heads and hurriedly left as they softly closed the door behind them.


    Sang Wan turned somewhat awkward at the moment. She eyed the big bucket of water in front of the bed with steam lingering above it. She could feel the hot steam rising up to her face and rushing into her nostrils.


    ¡°Sang Wan, do you want me to do it on my own?¡± Shi Fengju chuckled in a low voice and looked at her with interest.


    ¡°Let me bring over a set of clean undergarments for you first!¡± Sang Wan found an overused excuse. She turned around and took out a set of silky white undergarments from the wardrobe and put them beside the bed. After pulling the sleeves, she removed his clothes.


    Shi Fengjupiled with her and did not move at all. He deliberately wanted her to do it all for him. Sang Wan could not help but silently rolled her eyes at him. Her anger and shyness made him grin even more after a while.


    Shi Fengju treated her with sincerity. He felt neither restrained nor ufortable. Instead, he leaned backward casually andbed a few strands of her hair that were more than a shoulder¡¯s length before smiling, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re doing it a little too quickly! It feels ticklish from the hot water!¡±


    Sang Wan giggled and her awkwardness just then gradually eased. She hurriedly wrung the wet towel before unfolding it to wipe him clean.


    As the hot towel wiped across his body, Shi Fengju let out afortable sigh and closed his eyes to enjoy it. The towel wiped all over him and redness surfaced on his pale skin as if his pores were opened by the steam. His breathing, which she was familiar with, hit against her face before the steam, and she could not help but blush slightly.


    Shi Fengju was not any better. He had only wanted to tease her when he saw her being shy. However, since she was so close to him, her warm, soft and thin fingers grazed against his skin from time to time, causing his blood to circte quicker. As though his body had been excessively touched by lightning, he suddenly felt numb and his uncontroble desire soared. He suddenly felt his mouth was dry and did not dare to move.


    He could control his body¡¯s movement but not his reaction.


    He was awkward at first but after seeing that she was even more awkward than him, his awkwardness vanished in an instant. Instead, he looked at her with full interest and the corners of his lips curled in an uncontroble smile.


    Sang Wan had long scolded him in her heart. She was simply giving his body a wipe, who knew he¡¯d have such thoughts even with an injured body. It left her speechless.


    Right at this moment, if Shi Fengju knew how much she despised him deep down, he would definitely cry out in grievance. Still, this was something he could not control. He could only me it on her. He was a normal man. With her attending to him, it would be terrible if he did not have such a reaction.


    After washing the towel again, Sang Wan firmly skipped a part and went to wipe further down his body with slight hesitation. Shi Fengju quickly said, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t do that! You have to wipe every part of my body!¡± Upon seeing her speechless and pleading, ¡°Alright, Sang Wan. Just help me to the end, alright? I would feel so ufortable if you don¡¯t...¡±


    Sang Wan lifted her head to look at him and could only respond with an ¡®oh¡¯. She did not shy away and wiped his inner thigh with the wet towel.


    Shi Fengju did not anticipate her actually doing it and was caught off guard by the stimtion. He could not help but groan in a low voice and his entire body shuddered. He unconsciously shut his eyes and knitted his brows slightly. In that instant, his mind went nk and he could only feel the blood all over his body rushing to that single point. It swelled immediately to the point of exploding and he almost could not endure it.


    It had been two months since he went out to search for his Second Brother and he did not think about anything else. Moreover, even if he did, he would only think of her. He had always remained clean. Even though there were times when he joined social gatherings, he only drank wine, listened to music, and watched the singing and dancing. In his eyes, no matter how beautiful the women at the brothel were, they had been touched by many men and he felt disgusted at the thought of that. Therefore, he did not have any interest in doing anything to them. Gu Fangzi had always watched him closely, thus none of the servants in the household dared to climb into his bed. As a result, his wife was the first woman, so he could only remember her goodness after experiencing it.


    Now that she was with him, their usual intimacy and affection made him restless, stirring up desire for her. At this moment, the situation was clearly aggravated. The restraint he had under control was like the flood being discharged from the dam.


    Shi Fengju unconsciously felt vexed and regretful. If he had known earlier, he should not havee up with this idea to have her wipe his body. It would be better if he did the lower half while that servant Zhang Huan did the top half!


    He deserved this suffering.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I... I didn¡¯t use much strength. Did I perhaps hurt you?¡± Sang Wan felt he was rigid all over. She was frightened when she lifted her head and saw him with his eyes closed and his brows knitted together. She thought she might have idently touched the injury on his leg.


    ¡°No, nothing!¡± Shi Fengju was in a difficult situation and hurriedly said, ¡°I feel somewhat itchy on my back. Help me to wipe my back!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief!¡± Sang Wan smiled. She dropped the towel and carefully helped to turn him over on the bed before wiping his back.


    When her hands left, Shi Fengju felt somewhat regretful and disappointed for no reason. He actually liked that feeling. He almost wanted to ask her to continue wiping there, but he felt embarrassed with that thought so he quickly dropped the subject.


    The body that was before her had a waist that was slender and wide with healthy and clear skin. His pale skin was smooth without a w like a statue perfectly carved. Sang Wan had never seen his body like this before. Since he was lying on his stomach, he could not see her expression. However, she was also bolder than before and he was startled for a moment.


    When there was no sign of her moving, Shi Fengju could not help but slightly turn his head towards her. He saw both her eyes staring at his body with infatuation. That fiery desire just now once again soared and he smiled slightly towards her. ¡°Sang Wan, are you done looking?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face immediately turned red and she returned to her senses as she wiped him with all her might. However, she was unaware that her cheeks turned an intoxicating-red from the makeup. Her glistening eyes were extremely flirtatious and the tips of her brows were charming.


    Shi Fengju gulped and turned his head to silently lie on his stomach. His heart had immediatelye to a decision.


    After he had been wiped clean, the two of them seemed to be relieved.


    ¡°Your clothes are also wet. It must¡¯ve been a lot of work for you. Go and take a shower.¡± Shi Fengju turned back to lean on the bed couch. He wore his inner garments and pulled the nket to cover himself.


    ¡°I¡¯ll attend to you until you sleep first!¡± Sang Wan then went to help him.


    ¡°Go take a shower first. I still want to sit here.¡± Shi Fengju smiled as he held her hands and gave it a pinch.


    Sang Wan smiled.


    After taking a shower, Sang Wan returned and went up to say with hesitation, ¡°You have an injury on your leg so I won¡¯t disturb you. I¡¯ll sleep on the couch outside. Call me if you need anything...¡±


    ¡°You know your limits, so stay here with me! Look here, I¡¯ve even asked the servants to prepare your nket. We¡¯ll just cover ourselves with one each! You traveled a long way here, so how can I possibly allow you to spend the night on the pathetic couch? Moreover, I like you by my side.¡± Unwilling, Shi Fengju pulled her hands, not letting them go.


    ¡°But, if I were to identally touch your injury...¡± Sang Wan was still not at ease.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Shi Fengju said with augh, ¡°The bed is big, and we aren¡¯t small kids.¡±


    Sang Wan could only respond with a smile and instructed Liu Ya to sleep in the partition across the middle hall. She pulled the embroidered curtain down and left a smallmp in the corner with a veil. She drew down the mosquito and got up the bed before getting into her nket.


    After lying down for a while, she felt Shi Fengju¡¯s hand extend over her body, embracing her together with the nket. ¡°Sang Wan, let¡¯s talk, alright?¡±


    ¡°We can talk tomorrow!¡± Sang Wan closed her eyes and said. After rushing over while worried sick on a journey that took many days, she was finally at ease. Once sheid down, she felt so sleepy that she did not want to move anymore.


    Shi Fengju was unwilling toply. He pulled away her nket and extended his nket to wrap around her before whispering in her ear, ¡°Sang Wan, we haven¡¯t met for more than two months. Did you think of me?¡± With that, he leaned closer to her.


    ¡°Your injury...¡± Sang Wan grew worried.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that!¡±


    ¡°But...¡±


    Upon seeing her distracted at this moment, Shi Fengju could not help but feel annoyed and he blocked her lips with a kiss.


    Shi Fengju finally felt satisfied.


    Afterwards, Sang Wan unintentionally had a glimpse of the gauze on his arm. There was a bit of bright red oozing out. Frightened, she sat up and eximed tensely, ¡°Your arm is bleeding!¡±


    With that, she pulled off his robe and wanted to get off the bed.


    ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯m fine. It¡¯ll be alright after a while. It doesn¡¯t hurt.¡± Shi Fengju hurriedly pulled her back.


    ¡°How will that do! I don¡¯t even know if the injury on your leg tore. I don¡¯t feel at ease if I don¡¯t take a good look at it and change the dressing!¡± Sang Wan insisted on getting off the bed. She lit themp to have a look. As she had expected, blood indistinctly oozed out on his leg as well.


    Sang Wan¡¯s face sank and she coiled up the mosquito. She took the gauze and ointment over and helped him to tear apart the gauze, wipe the wound clean, and change the dressing. She then grumbled, ¡°Look, your injury really tore. I said no but you were so stubborn...¡±


    Shi Fengju felt somewhat awkward too. Even though he had obediently allowed her to fiddle without making a sound, he knew he had been rash just then, as if he did not want his life. His willpower had always been good and he knew she did not deliberately seduce him. However, once he saw her, he could not care about anything else.


    Shi Fengju was silently d that his injury had only torn a little and it was fine after she changed his dressing and wrapped it again. If his wounds opening up again had caused the physician toe in the middle of the night, not to mention her, even he would be embarrassed.


    However, he was unaware that Sang Wan had the same thought as well.


    ¡°I¡¯m done. Go and lie back down! Does it still hurt?¡± After Sang Wan was done, she put away the things by the side and asked gently.


    ¡°No, it doesn¡¯t hurt anymore. You should quickly go to sleep too!¡± Shi Fengju saw her happy again and could not help but feel relieved. He held her hands and let her help him lie down and cover him with a nket.


    Sang Wan then climbed up the bed andid down gently beside him.


    Upon seeing her remaining silent, Shi Fengju felt that she was still angry. He extended his hands to lightly nudge her. ¡°Sang Wan, Sang Wan!¡±


    Sang Wan silently sighed. She opened her eyes and leaned her head towards him. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. I just wanted to call you! Sang Wan, do you despise me?¡± Shi Fengju asked with a smile.


    Despise? Sang Wan was in a daze. Why would she? Besides, what right does she have to do that!


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting! Quickly go and sleep!¡± Sang Wan did not know whether to cry orugh. Could it be due to his injury that he became somewhat strange?


    ¡°Really? Then,e to my nket, will you? Sang Wan, I want to sleep with you in my embrace!¡± Shi Fengju wanted more. With her by his side, wouldn¡¯t he be a fool if he did not embrace her!


    In the dark night, his eyes stared at her brightly like the stars, revealing a deep yearning and affection.


    Would Sang Wan refuse? She smiled slightly and shifted to his side. He immediately raised his nket to wee her and wrapped her into his tight embrace. ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯ll listen to you. I won¡¯t mess around next time.¡±


    A next time? Sang Wan thought to herself: I would have said that if you didn¡¯t. There was a smile on her face and she responded with a nod before making her way into his embrace. After searching for afortable position, she closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep soon after.


    Shi Fengju had been lying on the bed all day to recuperate and had spent most of his time sleeping. As he listened to her long and even breathing, she was evidently in a deep sleep. It was clear that the journey was exhausting. Even though the journey was long, she arrived quickly. Who knew how worried she must¡¯ve been. It had been hard on her!


    He lowered his head to give her a light peck on her forehead before staring at her sleeping. He remained still as he could not bear to disturb her.


    Gradually, the injury on his leg burned hot with itchiness. It must have been due to him making strenuous movements before. He only felt the blood circting through his leg extremely fast and his wound throbbed rapidly. Then, it swelled as if there were maggots in his foot that were impossible to get rid of.


    Shi Fengju knew he had reaped what he sowed. However, he also knew that even if he were given another chance, he would still want her. This was nothing to be regretful about. He could only close his eyes to endure the pain and only thought about sleeping as quickly as possible so that he would not feel the pain anymore.


    He fell into a deep sleep and the sky was bright when he woke up. The sunlight prated through the windows, and shone on the floor in front of the bed. He could see it through the bed curtain.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± The woman in his embrace asked with a smile.


    Shi Fengju lowered his head and revealed a smile before rubbing his forehead and replied with a smile, ¡°Aren¡¯t you exhausted from the past few days? Why did you wake up so early?¡±


    Sang Wanughed and handed him a walnut-sized pocket watch from under the pillow. ¡°Look at the time now. How¡¯s it still early! I was afraid that if I moved, I would disturb you so I did not dare to move. You¡¯re finally awake now!¡± Sang Wan could not help but add, ¡°You sure know how to sleep.¡±


    Shi Fengju did not dare to tell her that he only managed to fall asleep at dawn due to the pain in his leg. After shooting a nce at the pocket watch she handed him, he spoke with a smile, ¡°Since it¡¯s already afternoon, are you hungry? Let¡¯s get up quickly!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry but I can¡¯t sleep anymore or my lower back will ache!¡± Sang Wan sat up and saw his eyes on her waist. She gave him a re before gathering the nket. She put on her clothes and got off the bed to dress herself properly. Once done, she helped him to change into a clean set of clothes.

 Chapter 234 - Appreciating The Flowers

    <h4>Chapter 234: Appreciating The Flowers</h4>


    Liu Ya and others had waited in silence for a long time outside, while in the hall downstairs, Head Servant Zhang and Zhan Huan were seated silently.


    The sun was rising higher and higher and the temperature was also gradually rising, but there was still no movement in the bedroom upstairs. Head Servant Zhang nced over uneasily. He somewhat could not sit still anymore and coughed. ¡°It¡¯s about time to change the dressings for Young Master.¡±


    ¡°Head Servant Zhang, don¡¯t waste your breath!¡± Zhan Huan curled his lips and continued, ¡°Since Young Mistress is here, why should we look for trouble? Having her here will be stronger than any miracle medicine! You do not know this, but during the past few days, we were in a hurry to arrive and Young Mistress did not rest well. She must¡¯ve been exhausted and only fell asleep after much difficulty. I¡¯m sure Young Master can¡¯t bear to wake her up. Whoever goes in and disturbs them will only be asking for it! In any case, I¡¯m not going!¡±


    Zhan Huan was scolded by Head Servant Zhang before he could finish. ¡°Rascal, do you need a spanking? Are the Masters¡¯ decisions for you to decide? One more word and I will pull your tongue out!¡±


    With their heads lowered, Qian He and the rest secretly chuckled while Zhan Huan turned sullen. He rubbed his head and sighed, mumbling with his lips curled.


    Although Head Servant Zhang scolded Zhan Huan, he felt that his words were reasonable so he did not mention going upstairs anymore. Soon, after seeing the two married maidservantsing down, Head Servant Zhang quickly got up and asked, ¡°Are Young Master and Young Mistress awake?¡±


    ¡°Yes, they need hot water to freshen up! Liu Ya also asked if lunch is ready? Have it servedter! Also, bring a pot of boiling water upstairs to make tea!¡± The one from the Shi Zhong family instructed.


    Head Servant Zhang agreed and instructed the servants. Then, everyone parted ways to do their tasks.


    It was past noon when the two upstairs finished eating.


    When it was time to change the dressings, Shi Fengju and Sang Wan were dumbfounded when the gauze was torn! It was clear that the wound on his leg had turned red and swollen with faint blood stains.


    Looking at each other, Sang Wan turned slightly angry while Shi Fengju shifted away guiltily.


    ¡°Head Servant Zhang, please invite Physician Li over! The wound on Young Master¡¯s leg doesn¡¯t look very good,¡± Sang Wan got up and instructed.


    Head Servant Zhang was anxious when he heard her and hurriedly asked: ¡°Did it swell because of the hot weather these two days? I¡¯ll send someone to call the physician here quickly!¡±


    Shi Fengju was searching his heart for a reason he could use. Upon hearing Head Servant Zhang, he became overjoyed andughed. ¡°Exactly, the weather has been so hot these past two days that it became intolerable! Hurry and call Physician Li over.¡±


    Puzzled, Head Servant Zhang silently wondered to himself: This is neither a good thing nor good news, so why did Young Master be overjoyed?


    ¡°Sang Wan, it really doesn¡¯t hurt. It¡¯ll be fine after Physician Li takes a look at it. Don¡¯t be angry, okay?¡± When Shi Fengju saw Sang Wan sitting silently at the side, he knew she must be furious so he spoke while holding onto her hand with a smile.


    ¡°My arrival only did you more harm instead. If Mother finds out, she will definitely me me for not taking care of you properly! There mustn¡¯t be a next time!¡± How could Sang Wan not be angry? Sang Wan was very furious. Head Servant Zhang was not a fool. Things would not always stay the same forever. If someone were to tell Wang Shi, she definitely could not avoid a scolding.


    When Shi Fengju heard her, he felt slightly disappointed. He said with a soft sigh, ¡°Sang Wan, are you angry because you¡¯re afraid my mother will me it on you?¡± He had thought that it was because she was concerned and worried about him.


    Sang Wan was dazed. She came back to her senses and replied, ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯m naturally afraid that Mother would me it on me. However, how can I feel good seeing you like this!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and held both her hands, ¡°I really am fine! Don¡¯t worry. My injuries will have recovered when I return. Mother can¡¯t be any more joyous than that, so why would she even bother about something so trivial! In any case, I¡¯m willing to suffer this minor pain! It¡¯s really nothing, so don¡¯t take it to heart, hmm?¡±


    Sang Wan simply did not know whether to cry orugh. She could no longer be angry with him and said with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t move about. Hurry and lean back obediently. Physician Li will take a lookter when he arrives.¡±


    Sang Wan had a guilty conscience. Since Physician Li had good medical expertise, if he managed to find out the cause of the wound worsening, she would be very embarrassed.


    Shi Fengju was not bothered and leaned back like what he was told. However, he was unwilling to let her leave. He still pulled her to have a seat beside him and held her hand as they talked until Physician Li arrived. Only then did he let her hide behind the partition.


    ¡°It was still fine yesterday. How did it worsen so suddenly!¡± Physician Li burst into the room. After greeting Shi Fengju, he sat on the stool that Liu Ya had brought over before checking his pulse.


    Realizing that his pulse was indeed pulsating abnormally, he frowned slightly and unwrapped the gauze that lightly covered his leg. When he saw the wound, he was in a great shock. ¡°It¡¯s inmed! How did it be like this!¡±


    Shi Fengju coughed awkwardly and said vaguely, ¡°I suppose it must¡¯ve been because the weather got a little hot these past two days...¡±


    ¡°That shouldn¡¯t be the case!¡± Physician Li denied the excuse and carefully checked his wound. He extended his hands and lightly pressed against it before asking with a frown, ¡°Young Master, did you do anything strenuous yesterday? You muscle is slightly strained. Fortunately, your bone didn¡¯t shift. Otherwise, I¡¯ll have to set it again!¡±


    Sang Wan bit her lips and lifted her handkerchief to cover her mouth fromughing out loud. She thought to herself: You deserve it! I¡¯ll see if you still dare to disregard the consequences in the future!


    Physician Li shot a suspicious look at him as if waiting for him to clear his doubts. Shi Fengju became even more guilty and anxious before he finally smiled with embarrassment, ¡°My wife reached here from home and I couldn¡¯t bear to see her sad, so I forced myself to walk a few steps in front of her. It was only to make her feel reassured, but who knew it ended up affecting my wound. My gains really did not make up for my suffering!¡±


    ¡°I see!¡± Physician Li finally understood and he nodded before letting out a sigh, ¡°Young Master, you have to rest in bed and not move around. Otherwise, with the weather getting hotter, it will be extremely detrimental to your wound. Young Mistress is very understanding, advising her not to worry would be enough. This is only an external wound that can recoverpletely after recuperating for some time, so there¡¯s no need for her to worry!¡±


    ¡°Hehe... you¡¯re right! I¡¯ll let her know!¡± Shi Fengju nodded his head in agreement.


    Physician Li wrote a prescription again and gave his instructions before he left.


    Head Servant Zhang personally sent him off before selecting the herbs ording to the prescription.


    Sang Wan came out from behind the partition and looked at Shi Fengju with what seemed like a smile on her face. Unable to hold herself back, she let out a giggle.


    Shi Fengju no longer felt embarrassed. With a smile, he extended his arms to hint at her to have a seat beside him before he said, ¡°Isn¡¯t your husband clever?¡±


    Sang Wan nodded her head as she held back herughter. ¡°You¡¯re simply clever beyond hope!¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Shi Fengju took her into his arms with a smile and extended his hands to pinch her chin. ¡°I¡¯m tactful so your disappointment will only be in vain.¡± With that, the two of them burst intoughter.


    Physician Li¡¯s prescription was indeed effective. After cleansing with the boiled medicinal decoction and applying the ointment, the burning pain subsided gradually, causing his tensed body to rx a little.


    Ever since the previous night, the two of them no longer did anything to agitate the injury. Despite only apanying him in this small space, he still felt content.


    In the next two days, the first quarter¡¯s ount books arrived from all parts of the country. In previous years, they would be sent to Qingzhou, but this year¡¯s situation was different. Shi Fengju had already ordered for all ount books to be sent to Handan. Sang Wan had helped him look through the ount books before. As such, the two of them naturally looked at the books together this time. Drinking tea and chatting all day was getting somewhat dull for Sang Wan, so she did not refuse. With this, she would while away the time by helping him. The way she used the abacus was so smooth and nice to look at. Shi Fengju had witnessed her skills before. However, he was now even more intoxicated and he could not help but kiss her hands that were like jade bamboo shoots, which made Sang Wan giggle.


    More than half a month had passed. Shi Fengjuplied with the physician¡¯s advice, and with his beloved wife apanying him everyday, his wounds healed quickly. After all, as long as the wound closed, it would recover quickly.


    This time around when Physician Li came, he told Shi Fengju that he could now go up and down the stairs slowly. He could also go for a walk around the courtyard. The gauze wrapped around his leg was only a thin and breathableyer and the splint on his leg had been removed.


    On a refreshing afternoon the following day, Shi Fengju could no longer lie still so he had Sang Wan help him downstairs.


    After leaving the room, he stood on the green brick floor in the courtyard and watched the swaying flower branches in front of him before giving it a sniff. He felt a strange freshness. He could not help but stare at the floor as he took a few slow steps and said self-deprecatingly, ¡°It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve been out. I feel extremely happy to be able to stand on my two feet here today! People always said to never take the simplest things for granted, and I have finally experienced it today!¡±


    Sang Wan said with augh, ¡°You¡¯ve only just recovered. Let¡¯s return to the house after a short while! When you arepletely recovered, I¡¯ll have nothing to say on how long you wish to stay!¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed and said, ¡°I was only speaking my mind. It wasn¡¯t easy for me toe to such a realization, yet my Sang Wan just had to sweep away my joy without any care!¡±


    Rolling her eyes at him, Sang Wan responded, ¡°Yes, yes, Young Master said it very well! Doesn¡¯t it feel great to regain something that was lost? Then, Young Master, please take your time to appreciate it!¡±


    Shi Fengju let out a burst ofughter. ¡°You sound so insincere!¡± Then, he took her hand and brought her to a cluster of peonies with yellowish-white stamen before he said with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, these peonies bloomed well. Do you like them?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s eyes swept across her surroundings and she noticed manyrge flower vats that were about half the height of a person ced messily in the courtyard. In every vat, different peonies were nted and they filled the entire courtyard with liveliness. There were purplish-red, pink, red, rose-red, white, goose-yellow, and many more colors, all with either a solid or mixed color. The flowers were the size of a bowl and they bloomed on every branch which attracted colorful butterflies and bees.


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but exim in surprise: ¡°Where did all these peoniese from! I¡¯m sure the courtyard didn¡¯t look like this when I came... Or did I remember it wrongly?¡±


    Shi Fengju looked at her without saying a word.

 Chapter 235 - For Her

    <h4>Chapter 235: For Her</h4>


    Sang Wan found his gaze baffling but did not feel guilty at all. She tilted her head to the side and thought carefully about it before saying with a smile, ¡°I really can¡¯t remember! Was it because these peonies have yet to bloom at that time? How long has it been? They¡¯ve grown too fast! ¡°


    ¡°You didn¡¯t see these peonies in the courtyard these past few days?¡± Shi Fengju finally asked.


    Sang Wan tried to recall before shaking her head after a slight hesitation as she answered with a smile, ¡°I spent most of my time upstairs apanying you. Even if I went downstairs, I must have gone by them hurriedly, so I really didn¡¯t notice them!¡± She continued, ¡°If I saw them, I would have cut two fresh flowers and ced them in a vase upstairs!¡±


    Disheartened, Shi Fengju said, ¡°Did you really not see them? If I didn¡¯t bring you here today, you wouldn¡¯t have noticed them? Sang Wan, I intentionally made them look for these outside so that you can appreciate them! I thought you would¡¯ve seen them long ago, but you didn¡¯t!¡±


    Sang Wan was suddenly taken aback. He had intentionally sent people to search for these peonies for her? Looking at his slightly disappointed expression, Sang Wan suddenly could not help but feel upset with herself as if she had done something bad.


    ¡°Fengju, these peonies are beautiful and I like them!¡± Sang Wan thought for a moment, then she took the initiative to hold his arm, and whispered shyly, ¡°I... I¡¯ve been worried about your injuries every day and was busy looking at those ount books with you. Where would I have the mood to look at anything else? If you didn¡¯t tell me, I wouldn¡¯t have expected the change in this courtyard! Of course, I like what you did for me. How could they not be pleasing to my eyes? So don¡¯t be angry, alright?¡±


    Shi Fengju was only disappointed for a while. Even if she did not mention it, he would have quickly reasoned with himself. After hearing her say that she liked them, he held onto her shoulder and said with a smile, ¡°I spoke carelessly just now. I¡¯m happy that you care about me. Why would I be mad at you?¡±


    Sang Wan smiled sweetly. ¡°Then that¡¯s good. I was slow to notice; to think that I wouldn¡¯t notice such arge change in the courtyard!¡± She even found it funny when she said it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll apany you to appreciate them. We¡¯ll cut whichever ones you like and ce them in a vase in the room.¡± Shi Fengju told her with a smile.


    Sang Wan nodded and they went ahead to enjoy the peonies for a while. However, she was worried that his wounded leg would be more unbearable the more he was out. As such, she picked a red and white one, instructing the servants to cut them before returning to the house together.


    ncing back at the beautiful flowers in the courtyard, there was a slight ripple in Sang Wan¡¯s heart as she allowed Shi Fengju to lead her.


    She had not expected him to do such a thing for her and she did not even notice them! She knew that he was really disappointed at that time. His slightly upset look made her feel slightly guilty. Feeling a little flustered and guilty, she quickly diverted his attention to other conversations.


    He could be either good or bad to someone to the extreme. Therefore, she did not know whether she was fortunate or not as she seemed to have experienced both extremes...


    Sang Wan was in a slight daze and was somewhat at a loss for a moment.


    ¡°Oh, before I forget. Sang Wan, I have something for you!¡± Shi Fengju gently pped his forehead as if he had suddenly remembered something important. He quickly pulled Sang Wan upstairs. That shook her and she hurriedly threw her thoughts to the back of her head before saying anxiously, ¡°Slow down! Careful or it¡¯ll hurt again!¡±


    ¡°It has long recovered. I¡¯m not that frail!¡± Shi Fengjuughed and pulled her into the room.


    ¡°Sang Wan,e. Have a seat here and wait for me!¡± Shi Fengju pulled her to the front of the dressing table and made her sit on the stool before he turned around to take something.


    ¡°Why are you being so mysterious!¡± Feeling somewhat puzzled, Sang Wan asked with a smile.


    In a short while, Shi Fengju took out a red embroidered box that was two inches wide and an inch long. He opened the box and took out a hairpin before cing the box on the dressing table. He handed the hairpin to her and asked with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, this is a crystal lotus flower hairpin? Do you like it?¡±


    Sang Wan looked at it carefully. The crystal hairpin in her hand was sparkling without any traces of impurities. No traces of joining the hairpin at its body or head were seen, which was evident that it was made from a piece of crystal. The chopstick-sized body of the hairpin was ingeniously polished into a hexagon, reflecting and refracting light on it to give off a resplendent and dazzling radiance. There were two lotus flowers on a stalk that were the size of a copper coin, withyers of petals, bringing out its elegance and thinness, its pureness and vividness. It was as if the hairpin would tremble slightly if the wind blew against it. A two-finger-sized crystal butterfly was on a flower and the wings of the butterfly stood high, with the silk feelers clearly visible and light as they swayed from time to time as though alive. The lotus stamen was made of golden silk which were threaded through theyers of crystal. From within, a chopstick-sized crystal chain hung down, one long and one short, that slightly hung at the ear level when worn. The back part of it was weighed down with a finger-sized drop of gem. A lustrous pure ruby. The brightly red luster reflected the clear-white crystal hairpin and increasingly brought out its exquisiteness.


    ¡°Is it pretty?¡± Shi Fengju ced both his hands on her shoulders and asked with a smile as if he had presented her with a treasure.


    ¡°It looks pretty. It must¡¯ve been expensive!¡± Sang Wan eximed with a smile. The hairpin in her hand had a full sense of weight. Its quality was probably of great value, let alone the workmanship.¡°I got it specially ordered for you, so it¡¯s naturally more valuable. Do you like it?¡± Shi Fengju asked with a smile again..


    ¡°How can I not like such a lovely hairpin!¡± Sang Wan smiled, but the smile on her face was somewhat stiff. The more he deliberately tried to please her and treat her well, the more she felt guilty without a reason.


    ¡°It¡¯s a relief that you like it! Come on, I¡¯ll help you put it on.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and took the crystal lotus hairpin. He looked at her hair bun for a brief moment before inserting it for her. Holding her shoulders, he admired her reflection in the mirror before he praised her, ¡° Sang Wan, you are so beautiful wearing this! I did not get this in vain! I was very anxious when the boat caught fire that day. Luckily, I managed to rescue it...¡±


    ¡°What did you say!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s body trembled suddenly and her eyes widened. She took the red brocade box ced on the dressing table and saw the scorched marks on it. It was obvious that it had been rescued from the fire. She recalled the situation on that day when Zhang Huan spoke halfway with much consideration. He mentioned that he was at fault for not taking good care of his Young Master. They obviously came out together, but his young master.... he did not pay attention and the pir fell onto his Young Master!


    ¡°You...¡± Sang Wan suddenly stood up. While holding the embroidered box in her hand, she questioned Shi Fengju, ¡°You went out of the boat. Was it because youter entered the boat again to look for this? Then... Fengju, is that the case?¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju was a little frightened by her expression and felt nervous for no reason. He reached out to force her into his embrace before leaning over her shoulder to answer, ¡°Am I not fine now! Have you forgotten? Back then, when my elder sister took away the jade hairpin that I gave you, I told you that I would find a better one for you. Look, this crystal lotus hairpin is better than that one, right?¡±


    ¡°But you shouldn¡¯t put yourself in danger for this. If something bad happened to you, I would only feel sad and guilty everytime I see this hairpin. Why would I still want it then!¡± Feeling bitter, Sang Wan had no energy to lean in his arms and she grasped his clothes. ¡°Fengju, you don¡¯t have to be so good to me, really!¡±


    She was bewildered by how well he treated her, causing her to be at a loss. She was unsure how to repay him and she wanted to avoid such a feeling as she did not like it. She did not know what she had that could repay him! The better he treated her, the more afraid she was. He said he liked her, but every time she heard it, she would feel even more unnatural. But really, wasn¡¯t mutual respect between husband and wife good as well? That way, everyone could be calm,fortable, and at ease!


    But not him!


    Shi Fengju lowered his head to kiss her gently on the forehead. When he heard the sound of her weeping, he let go of her slightly and lifted her face before he gently caressed the corners of her eyes to wipe away the traces of tears, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t cry! You are my wife and the woman I like. Who will I be good to besides you?¡±


    ¡°Fengju...¡± Sang Wan¡¯s unbearable tears streamed down her face. She shook her head and lowered her gaze. ¡°Don¡¯t say anymore. In the future, don¡¯t do this again. You have to promise me!¡±


    ¡°Okay, I promise you, I won¡¯t do it again! Don¡¯t cry, hmm? Look at you, I gave you something and you cry like this. Those who aren¡¯t aware will think that I bullied you!¡± Shi Feng coaxed her with a smile and wiped off her tears.


    Sang Wan sniffled and took out her handkerchief to wipe her tears before forcing a smile, ¡°Fengju, I really don¡¯t care about these. I just want you to be safe, that¡¯s all! And Mother won¡¯t stand being frightened again!¡±


    What she said was clearly virtuous with audable filial piety. But for some reason, Shi Fengju felt a little disappointed and at a loss. Just what exactly was he looking for? He himself was in a little daze.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will pay attention to that in the future and won¡¯t let you worry!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and suddenly held her shoulders and said, ¡°Sang Wan, tell me. Do you like me?¡±


    Sang Wan froze and raised her eyes slightly. Her gaze met with his, and she could see the little nervousness in his eyes that he tried to hold back.


    Sang Wan blinked slightly to avoid his gaze. Her heart was in a mess, and although she did not know why he had suddenly asked her, she intuitively felt that she would only offend him if she answered incorrectly.


    She subconsciously nodded her head and responded with a yes.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes lit up as though they were the brightest stars in the night sky. He held her shoulders with great strength and asked, ¡°Sang Wan, you really like me, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Sang Wan nodded but was too afraid to look into his eyes as she leaned against him. He was her husband, so she could not leave him and they were going to be together for their entire lifetime. So naturally she liked him, didn¡¯t she?

 Chapter 236 - Preparing To Return

    <h4>Chapter 236: Preparing To Return</h4>


    ¡°Sang Wan,¡± Shi Fengju hugged her tightly and nuzzled his chin affectionately against her head before saying with a heartyugh, ¡°Sang Wan, I will treat you well forever, and I will never leave you!¡±


    ¡°En, I will also be your good wife.¡± Sang Wan¡¯s lips curved up.


    Peaceful days and an idle life. That was what she had always wanted, but right now, she felt like she could no longer control her heart anymore. Hearing those words from him, she could not help but feel happy, and a genuine happiness and warmth spread from within her heart.


    In the blink of an eye, seven to eight days had passed. Physician Li took onest careful examination of Shi Fengju¡¯s wounds before he cupped his fists and congratted with a smile on his face, ¡°Congrattions, Young Master, on your full recovery! In the future, you¡¯ll have to take note to not get your leg injured again or walk too much as that might aggravate your injury. In half a year, you¡¯ll be the same as before! I will prescribe you another two bottles of medication to remove the scars, you¡¯ll have to apply it twice every day. As for the other medicines, you can stop taking them now!¡±


    Everyone was ted upon hearing this piece of good news, and they congratted Shi Fengju. Shi Fengju was the most delighted and personally sent Physician Li off before instructing Head Servant Zhang to prepare an expensive gift to express his appreciation. Not only that, all the servants who served Shi Fengju during this difficult time were heavily rewarded.


    As for Sang Wan, she could not escape the fate of being passionately rewarded between the sheets that night after being abstinent for awhile. It was as wild and passionate as fire, and Sang Wan almost lost her mind.


    When they finished and cleaned up, they hugged each other and went to sleep. Shi Fengju hugged the girl that was still weak and docile. When he lowered his head, he could immediately smell her unique scent and felt a sense of bliss. How he hoped that things would always remain this way, and that they would never have to part.


    ¡°Sang Wan, do you want to go to the capital? We aren¡¯t far from the capital, why don¡¯t I bring you there? The capital has some of our businesses, we can have a look around too.¡± Shi Fengju asked with the use of a pretext.


    The capital where the Emperor resided bustled with life. It was a destination that every citizen looked forward to visiting once in their lifetime. Of course, Sang Wan was no different. Right now, Shi Fengju was tempting her softly with the ces they could go and the beautiful sceneries there. This further enticed Sang Wan.


    However, even if she was enticed, she could not say she wanted to go immediately.


    Shi Fengju had been recuperating here for more than a month now. Even though they had sent two letters back to report their situation, however, how would Wang Shi be at ease not seeing her son with her own eyes? In her letter, she nagged Shi Fengju to quickly recuperate and return home. Shi Fengju was merely in a good mood now and might have forgotten about it.


    Even if he could forget about it, Sang Wan could not. Not going home after recuperating, and bringing her to the capital? Wang Shi would definitely skin her alive when she returned.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do that next time! Next time when you are going to the capital, we can go together. We should return home without dying and let everyone at home see that you are fine. Even though Mother isn¡¯t as worried now, how would she be at ease without seeing you?¡±


    Shi Fengju was feeling a little unhappy at first upon being rejected. When he heard the end of her sentence, he was caught off guard but he remained unhappy. Knowing she was right, he could not find any words to rebut her as he had momentarily forgotten about it and suggested going to the capital instead. He naturally missed his mother at home too.


    But for some reason, she always cared for others more than the times she cared for him. Even if that ¡®others¡¯ was just his mother, he felt very sour for some reason.


    ¡°Sang Wan you are too virtuous! You always think about Mother all the time. You are even better than me as a son. Tell me, should I respect you more?¡± Shi Fengju said in a fit.


    Why does it sound so sarcastic? Sang Wan raised her eyes. Through the weak lighting through the curtains, she nced at the expression of the man, and found it both amusing and infuriating. Seeing how he was mad, of course she would not throw a tantrum as it would only make things worse, so she pulled herself closer to him, and wrapped her arms around his neck before smiling, ¡°Fengju, is it bad that I am virtuous? As a man, you have an extensive family business to maintain, and sometimes you will forget some things which I will then have to help remind you! Of course, I want to go to the capital with you, look at beautiful sceneries, and taste all the good food. I¡¯d love to! But you just had something serious happen to you, shouldn¡¯t you go home to let them know you¡¯re safe and sound, and thank your ancestors for their protection? I know you didn¡¯t forget Mother and suggested the visit impulsively. So even if I agreed with you, I¡¯m afraid that you will have to apologize and rush home when youe to your senses tomorrow! So before that happens, I reminded you first. Yet from the way you spoke about me, it sounded like I am not being tactful enough!¡±


    After she finished, she turned away and distanced herself from him.


    How could he still be angry after hearing her? Seeing her pout her lips and express her grief before turning away, she looked pitiful and cute at the same time. He stretched his arm quickly and trapped her in his embrace before smiling, ¡°I can¡¯t win against you. No matter what you say, you make the most sense, and you are right! It is not that you aren¡¯t tactful, it was just a slip of my tongue. If you were not thoughtful. I¡¯m afraid I might have to go back on my words tomorrow and apologize to you. My good wife, I¡¯m the one who¡¯s wrong. I¡¯m sorry, dear. Don¡¯t be angry anymore, okay?¡±


    Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t dare to be angry at him. Upon hearing him, a giggle escaped her mouth, and she softly knocked against his chest and said, ¡°It¡¯ste at night, let¡¯s go to sleep now!¡±


    Shi Fengju held her hands and ced them on his lips as he kissed them gently before smiling, ¡°Tomorrow, I will have them prepare the boat and we¡¯ll make our way home the following day. Even though this ce cannot bepared to the city, there is a temple near here. It is known to have answered many prayers. Not only that, their vegetarian banquet is delicious. The scenery there is also very serene. Since we¡¯re here, we should at least visit that ce. I¡¯ll take you there tomorrow.¡±


    This was a better suggestion. After being away from the Shi household for so long, they remained indoors for many days. The past few days when his leg was getting better, the two would asionally make a trip out in the city to sightsee, but there wasn¡¯t much meaning to just looking. It wasn¡¯t bad to go for a walk tomorrow too.


    Sang Wan nodded with a smile before the two went to sleep.


    The next day when the sun was out, they did not dress up too excessively because it was only a trip to the temple. Shi Fengju wore a moon-white robe with dark bamboo leaves sewn on the cor. Encircling his waist was a silver waist belt. There was also a jade bracelet with a yellow tassel hanging from his waist. His footwear was a pair of pale white light boots. As for Sang Wan, she wore a pale coat and she matched it with a jade white undershirt and a pale green pleated skirt. Her hair was done simply and secured with a simple hairpin that was tinted with two or three small flowers. Her brows were drawn softly, and with some simple makeup, she looked fresh and graceful.


    It was rare to be out today. Other than Head Servant Zhang, who led two other male servants to prepare the boats, the rest were tasked to apany the two and they were in great spirits. Sang Wan and Fengju sat in the same carriage while Liu Ya and the other two women sat in the other carriage. Zhang Huan and the rest rode horses beside the carriages.


    Ling Xin Temple was just ten miles away from the city centre, and built on top of Qiu Min hill. The hill was between two towering mountains, and Daxiong Pavillion sat on the tallest point of the hill. If Daxiong Pavillion was described as the seat, the two mountain ranges would be the armrest by the seat. This geographical position was the most auspicious as it gave off the eminence of a ruler. The pavilion overlooked a t and wide arable rice field. Further beyond, there were more uneven mountains.


    When the carriage halted at the bottom of the hill, Shi Fengju helped Sang Wan to put on a hat with a thin veil before helping her to get off the carriage. The veiled hat was extremely light, and the wearer could see clearly through the veil from inside, but her appearance would be carefully concealed from the eyes of others.


    ¡°There is still a distance from the peak! There isn¡¯t much to see at the bottom of the hill either. We¡¯ll start to see some beautiful scenery while going up the hill. Let¡¯s take the sedan until we are near the temple gate.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and said.


    At this moment, there were already a dozen sedan bearers waiting for business at the side. Seeing how they must be from a prestigious family, the sedan bearers did not dare to crowd around and try to get business. They just smiled politely at one side.


    Sang Wan could see the sedans from where she stood. Two bamboo poles were joined to a bamboo seat in between, and the four sides were not covered with only the top sheltered. At the two sides were two thumb-size width bamboo poles shielding the sun and acting as the handholds.


    Looking up at the pavilion up at the top of the steep hill, the road looked precariously narrow and winding. Sang Wan looked at the bamboo sedan and was a little worried. She smiled nervously, ¡°This, will I fall from this?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed. Before he could say anything, a sedan bearer quickly smiled and answered, ¡°Young Mistress, please do not worry, we walk this path at least three or four times a day and nothing has ever happened. It is very safe!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, they are very used to this. You¡¯ll be safe.¡± Shi Fengju smiled and held her hands.


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded her head. Shi Fengju waved his hand, and four people dashed over with two sedans. They ced it down carefully on the ground and said, ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress, please get on!¡±


    Shi Fengju helped Sang Wan up, before taking the other chair. The four bearers shouted ¡°Go!¡± And they lifted the sedans up before walking up the hill slowly.


    Liu Ya, Zhan Huan, and the rest followed behind.


    As they walked, the bamboo sedan creaked softly. That made Sang Wan feel slightly nervous and she held onto the handholds for dear life. But after a while, she finally got used to it and rxed her hands lightly. This made Shi Fengju, who was following her, chuckle and he instructed Liu Ya to follow beside her carefully.


    Sang Wan calmed herself down, and raised her eyes to look around her. The hill was filled with greenery, and there were many different shapes and sizes of pine trees. The birds were flying around and chirping, and she could even hear the faint rumbling sounds of a waterfall. On the ground, there grew many different kinds of wildflowers blooming subtly like the stars in the night sky.


    The breeze from the valley came brushing past, bringing the unique scent of pine trees, nourishing their lungs and bringing a peaceful atmosphere. The sun was shining through the thin fog, and the blue sky was clear and wide, it was indeed a good day for a trip.


    After walking for half an hour and going past the first stone gate made by gigantic rocks, they arrived on a stone tform and Shi Fengju called for the bearers to stop. The bearers stopped walking and lowered the sedans slowly.

 Chapter 237 - The Origin Of Ling Xin Temple

    <h4>Chapter 237: The Origin Of Ling Xin Temple</h4>


    Shi Fengju got down the bamboo sedan and went to help Sang Wan before asking with a smile, ¡°Did it scare you?¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head and answered with a smile, ¡°I was a bit nervous at first, but I found it interesting after getting used to it!¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and headed up with her while saying, ¡°¡±There are sedans on the mountain too. We¡¯ll take that when we go down the mountainter. Let¡¯s go up slowly. The scenery on this mountain is good and there is a very tall waterfall not far ahead! It happens that today is neither the fifteenth day of the lunar month nor any other festive day, so no one wille here, which is to our advantage!¡±


    Sang Wan responded with a smile and walked slowly with him.


    Since Shi Fengju did not want Zhan Huan to follow, he instructed him to go up the mountain first to book a vegetarian feast. Liu Ya lifted up the lunch box in her hand and grumbled, ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress, let me follow you! The two of you might get thirsty and want to have tea and refreshments while on your way up!¡±


    Speaking about being considerate and attentive, even ten Liu Yas would not be as good as one Zhan Huan. Sometimes, Shi Fengju was speechless and wondered whether she was really muddleheaded or pretending to be one.


    However, he did not know how he should talk about it. Thankfully, Zhan Huan had already whispered to Liu Ya, just enough for Shi Fengju and Sang Wan to hear, ¡°You fool! Young Master clearly doesn¡¯t want to be disturbed and yet you want to follow them. Why do you have to follow them and not wait for them! They will call you when they want to drink tea.¡±


    When Liu Ya heard that, she looked at Shi Fengju as if asking him whether that was so.


    Shi Fengju was a master. It was therefore inconvenient for him to say such tant words in front of the servants. Seeing Liu Ya looking at him, he did not know how to respond for a moment and could not help but curse in his heart: What a blockhead! Even Zhan Huan is more scrupulous than her. Too bad he¡¯s not a female servant!


    Sang Wan held back herughter and told Liu Ya, ¡°What are you still doing there? Not going to leave? Just wait for us at Erdao Monastery¡¯s main gate!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Liu Ya then went ahead with Zhan Huan. Deep down, she told herself that Young Mistress was still better since she was more straightforward!


    With no one around, Shi Fengju held Sang Wan¡¯s hand as they walked up slowly and admired the scenery. The two of them talked andughed. They were so intimate that nothing coulde between them. Seeing the purple irises on the side of the road that bloomed vividly, Sang Wan praised them with a few words. Shi Fengju picked a flower and carefully ced it in her hair, and the two looked at each other and smiled.


    When they reached the front of the waterfall, the two held onto the railing for a while. They watched the white water whizzing down from a high cliff and crashing into the deep pool under their feet before flowing into the stream. The mist and cool air rushed forth, as if baptizing the surrounding flora and fauna. With mountains and the lush green hills all around, the ce appeared secluded and refined, letting them forget any worries.


    ¡°The Great Teacher here must¡¯ve been blessed to be able to choose such a good ce to build a temple. Who knows how many would envy him!¡± Sang Wan could not help but praise with a smile.


    Shi Fengju responded with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, do you like the waterfalls? We also have them in the mountains of Qingzhou. When we go back, I will have someone find a good ce and we can build a manor on the mountain, nt flowers and trees everywhere, and raise two pairs of red-crowned cranes and sika deers. We¡¯ll stay there for a few days whenever we¡¯re free. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°...¡± For a moment, Sang Wan was speechless and looked at him in a slight daze.


    ¡°Sang Wan?¡± Shi Fengju raised his hand with a grin. He tidied the hair that was by the side of her head made messy by the wind as he came closer to her.


    ¡°Yes, of course that¡¯s good!¡± Sang Wan refrained from showing her predicament and forcibly suppressed her thoughts that almost emerged: ¡°Will Mother be angry with me if she knows about it?¡±


    Shi Fengjuughed happily. He pulled her into his embrace and lowered his head to say with a smile, ¡°Just wait and see, I¡¯ll definitely find a bigger and better waterfall for you.¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and felt that she nearly could not resist him anymore.


    Near noon, the two of them arrived at the main temple on the summit. At a distance, they could see a white-bearded Teacher wearing a kasaya and holding Buddhist beads. Behind him stood several young monks in blue-gray robes.


    Sang Wan froze for a moment and wondered if there were any noble guests visiting the temple today, but Shi Fengju quickly took her hand and quickened his pace.


    Upon seeing them, that Great Teacher¡¯s eyes lit up and he calmly walked up to bow with one hand before saying with a chuckle, ¡°Benefactor Shi, I haven¡¯t seen you in a long time. How are you? I heard from Zhan Huan that you encountered a small disaster some time back. Fortunately, you have the blessings from Buddha and managed to turn it into fortune. I¡¯m happy for you!¡±


    ¡°That servant is so talkative! It was a small matter, and I¡¯m already in good health. Thank you, Great Teacher, for your concern!¡± Shi Fengju respectfully returned the bow before carefully taking Sang Wan¡¯s hat off and handing it to Liu Ya. He said with a smile: ¡°Great Teacher, this is my wife, Sang Wan. Sang Wan, this is the Ling Xin Temple¡¯s master, Great Teacher Ling Jing!¡±


    ¡°Greetings, Great Teacher!¡± Sang Wan hurriedly bowed to greet him.


    Great Teacher Ling Jing smiled and did not dare to return the bow, ¡°When did Benefactor Shi get married? Congrattions! Your wife is a gentle and virtuous person at first nce, a match made in heaven for you!¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your words, Great Teacher! It wasst April, and it has been exactly one year since I took her as my wife!¡± When Shi Fengju heard Great Teacher Ling Jing praise Sang Wan, he was happier to hear that than anything else. The smile remained on his face as he took Sang Wan into the temple while apanied by Great Teacher Ling Jing.


    The backyard of the temple had been cleaned and the two of them washed their hands and face. Then, they went to the hall and paid their respects before they entered the meditation room to have tea with Great Teacher Ling Jing.


    Sang Wan saw that Shi Fengju and Great Teacher Ling Jing seemed to be very familiar with each other, seemingly having many things to talk about. She was bored here and did not want to disturb them. Thus, she excused herself to have a tour around the temple.


    Shi Fengju knew her intentions, so he did not stop her but only told her with a smile to be careful. He also told her not to go out of the temple. Great Teacher Ling Jing sent one of the disciples, Hui Zhen, to take Sang Wan to look around.


    Sang Wan expressed her thanks and left.


    When Zhan Huan and the rest saw that everyone did not need their service so they left to have fun in the temple. Only Liu Ya followed Sang Wan and Hui Zhen and went around the temple.


    The area was exceptionally good and a temple had been here hundreds of years ago. After the ups and downs, it was built and destroyed, destroyed and built, leaving countless traces of tales for future generations.


    Hui Zhen was eloquent and also studied Buddhism. In addition, he had the mind to give it his all. He talked non-stop and exined to Sang Wan with a silver tongue. Together with Sang Wan, Liu Ya also listened to him.


    ¡°Young Mistress, even though the temple looks bright and neat today, you won¡¯t expect this ce to be a deste area where wild foxes roamed four years ago! My master was benevolent and reconstructed this temple to wee Buddha. Many noble people and civilians from Handan Citye here to make a wish, redeem a vow, and even pray sincerely to umte blessings!¡±


    Sang Wan and Liu Ya could not help but nce at the majestic and grand buildings around them and eximed with surprise, ¡°If Junior Teacher did not mention it, it really is hard to imagine Ling Xin Temple was built four years ago! To rebuild this temple, Great Teacher Ling Jing must have collected donations for many years and suffered a lot!¡±


    Except for the imperial temples or the temples presided over by some local authorities, most of the temples in the world were built and renovated by various monks collecting donations. However, in order to obtain enough money and wood, it all depended on each person¡¯s discipline to cultivate reputation and destiny. With so many halls and buildings in the Ling Xin Temple, it must have cost a lot. Even if Great Teacher Ling Jing was reputable, he had to put in a lot of hard work.


    bbergasted, Hui Zhen nced at Sang Wan and said, ¡°Young Mistress hasn¡¯t heard about that? Young Master Shi paid for the temple¡¯s reconstruction! We are all very grateful to him!¡±


    ¡°That happened? I really didn¡¯t know about that!¡± Sang Wan was taken aback. Shi Fengju had not told her that he had paid for the reconstruction of Ling Xin Temple.


    pping her hands, Liu Ya said with augh, ¡°It¡¯s no wonder that Great Teacher Ling Jing and Young Master are so close. It turns out they have known each other for a long time! Great Teacher Ling Jing indeed has a good foresight to find Young Master for donations. Even ten of a temple thisrge won¡¯t be a problem!¡±


    ¡°Liu Ya!¡± Hearing Liu Ya shoot her mouth off, Sang Wan quickly turned her head and shot an angry re at her.


    However, Hui Zhen did not seem to mind and he said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m afraid this missy is wrong. My Master did not ask Young Master Shi for any donations...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s strange! Then could it be that my Young Master took the initiative toe here? This ce is so far away from Qingzhou, it seems very unlikely! If it¡¯s in Qingzhou, that would be more or less believable!¡± Liu Ya spoke again.


    ¡°That is not the case either,¡± Hui Zhen said with a good temper and a smile, ¡°We were out of luck then. Ever since my Master chose and made a vow here to reconstruct this ce, dozens of our disciples left to collect donations outside, but we barely managed to collect enough after five years. After collecting nearly enough and gathering the amount together, they rushed back to strive for the temple to be constructed as soon as possible. Who knew that the Martial Uncle, who was in charge of the ounts, lost the bundle with money in it. Even though we went back to search for it, it was nowhere to be found? Everyone was so anxious that even Martial Uncle cried loudly and wanted to kill himself in the river. That was where he happened to meet Young Master Shi¡¯s fleet. Young Master Shi asked about the situation and agreed to fork out the money required to reconstruct the ce. He told us to go back to the mountain first and someone would be sent to deliver the money. We thought he was joking at first, but since we had no other choice, we could only heed his words and return to the mountain first. Surprisingly, at the foot of the mountain, we met the person whom Young Master Shi sent to give the money. He rode a horse, so he was naturally faster than us who walked. At that time, he gave us a banknote worth 80,000 which shocked us all!¡±


    Hui Zhen narrated as if the situation happened just yesterday and sighed lightly before going on, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of beingughed at, but we were really dumbfounded at that time. Until that person who sent the money left, we did not return to our senses for a while as we did not dare to believe that it was real!¡±


    Liu Ya said with a smile, ¡°And after that, Ling Xin Temple was constructed?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Hui Zhen nodded and told her with a smile, ¡°With enough money on hand, we managed to purchase all sorts of materials quickly. Many vigers nearby came to help. It took more than a year to build the important halls and the other buildings were slowly built after that. When we did the calctionster on, there were still 20,000 silvers left. My Master initially wanted to return it to Young Master Shi, but he did not take it. As such, my Master built a school at the foot of the mountain and invited a schoolteacher to teach the children in the nearby viges to read and write for free. The remaining money was used to purchase a fertilend. Besides serving the purpose of the temple¡¯s expenses every year, the produce of the fertilend also served as the school¡¯s expenses. Every winter, we will also set up a food relief center to give out porridge, send cotton-padded clothings to the poor, repair the bridges and roads, and other deeds. Today, the reputation of our temple can be said to be known throughout all of Handan!¡±

 Chapter 238 - Heart Beating As One Forever

    <h4>Chapter 238: Heart Beating As One Forever</h4>


    ¡°Great Teacher really has a big heart. He¡¯s very admirable!¡± Sang Wan could not help but put her palms together and exim.


    Hui Zhen hurriedly put his palms together and bowed before saying, ¡°All monks are merciful at heart. This is what our Master often teaches us! Since Young Master Shi offered help so readily, he is a true giver. Our entire temple is indebted to him.¡±


    Suddenly, she heard Shi Fengju call for her as he came up to them from behind. Hui Zhen promptly stepped aside and bowed. ¡°Benefactor Shi!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve troubled you. Please carry on with your things!¡±


    Hui Zhen bowed to take his leave. It wasn¡¯t so often that Liu Ya was sharp. Before Shi Fengju spoke, she said first, ¡°I¡¯ll also take my leave!¡± With that, she hurriedly left.


    Sang Wan giggled and joked with Shi Fengju, ¡°She¡¯s far too innocentpared to your Zhan Huan. Don¡¯t re at her too much in the future or she¡¯ll only be stupid!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled, ¡°Why would I re at her? You really know how to shield her! I¡¯m not sure whether she is stupid or pretending to be one! If she is a fool, how can she help you with the ount books? From what I see, she uses the abacus very smoothly and recognizes many words! But she isn¡¯t bright enough!¡±


    Sang Wan replied with a smile, ¡°She isn¡¯t bright enough, so don¡¯t frighten her next time!¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head helplessly. He pulled her and said with a smile, ¡°Come, I¡¯ll take you to a good ce!¡± Then, he led her up ahead.


    Shi Fengju brought Sang Wan to a garden where there was a very tall and leafy huge tree in the middle with countless red ribbons hanging on the branches. Not far from the huge tree was a four-legged copper censer that was half a human height with many incense sticks stuck in it.


    ¡°What is this?¡± Sang Wan asked curiously. She saw countlessrge red ribbons, among the leafy branches, swaying with the wind and giving it a distinctive appearance.


    Shi Fengju said with a smile, ¡°This old camphor tree is said to be more than a hundred years old. If you make a wish to it and write your wish on the red ribbon, as long as it is thrown on the tree and does not fall, your wish wille true. The higher you throw, the more likely it wille true. Many people will try this when theye here. Sang Wan, let¡¯s try it too! ¡°


    Sang Wan scanned around and indeed saw a long table ced by the side with a pen and ink, as well as an ink b, on it. There was also an old red wooden box. The red ribbons used were arranged neatly beside the wooden box. The red ribbons were two inches wide and two feet long, and a small bag was tied to each end. There should be some things in it. If not, how could the ribbon be tossed up when it¡¯s so light?


    Sang Wan asked with a smile, ¡°Did you make a wish when you came here before?¡±


    Shi Fengju suddenly felt a little hesitant to answer. After thepletion of Lingxin Temple, he woulde to visit this ce every time he went through Handan. First, he would watch the scenery in the mountains, then he would talk with Great Teacher Ling Jing as he was worth making friends with. After listening to him, he would achieve speedy enlightenment as if all his troubles in the world were gone. The second thing he came here for was for the good food. The vegetarian food in the temple was made by Great Teacher Ling Jing¡¯s disciple, Ling Qing. It was delicious and famous in the entire Handan City. That Great Teacher Ling Qing had a rule where the dishes were only made three times a month, once every ten days. He adhered to it strictly and would not change it. However, he had made an exemption. Every time he came, Great Teacher Ling Qing would always be delighted to cook for him.


    Shi Fengju had a guilty conscience because when he heard about the effectiveness of the legend here, the first thing that came to his mind was his unfavorable engagement. His biggest wish was, of course, to cancel it. At that time, he had no other way so this was the only thing he could try. That day, he walked to this very ce and almost wrote his wish. Thinking that this wish of his did not seem right, he hesitated and left. At this moment, when he heard Sang Wan ask, he felt embarrassed when he thought about what happened in the past.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t. I only came here to talk to Great Master Ling Jing. After eating the vegetarian food, I left. Where would I have the time to do this?¡± Shi Fengju coughed and answered quickly.


    Without doubting him, Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°Since it¡¯s so effective, let¡¯s give it a try! I wonder what wish you have.¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled slightly and returned the question, ¡°Sang Wan, what about you?¡±


    Sang Wan froze and could not help but search her heart. What wish did she have? It seemed she had many and yet none. She was stunned for a moment.


    Smiling, Shi Fengju took her to the front of the table. He took out a few bright copper coins that he had prepared and threw them into the red wooden box. After scooping out some water from a pot with a woodendle, he poured it gently onto the ink b. Then, he grinded the ink and wrote: Shi Fengju, Sang Wan. Until death do us part, our heart shall beat as one forever.


    He wrote the strokes very carefully. His elegant and agile handwriting distinctly emerged on the bright red ribbon before Sang Wan¡¯s eyes. The ck characters on the red background seemed to have reached the bottom of Sang Wan¡¯s heart!


    Startled, Sang Wan suddenly felt a tide of tears surge in her eyes as they slowly blurred her view.


    At this moment, her heart was heavy and her mind was nk. He wished that he would grow old with her and have their hearts beat as one forever. At this moment, she knew that this man really had her in his heart!


    ¡°Finished!¡± Shi Fengju finally heaved a sigh of relief and ced the brush down. He looked at the few words that he wrote and asked with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, what do you think? Did I write it well?¡±


    All he asked was for her opinion, but from the way he saw her, he was sure she was thinking the same too.


    ¡°It¡¯s good.¡± Sang Wan nodded stiffly. She knew that she should have revealed a slightly bashful smile, however, her cheeks were stiff and they did not listen to her at all. There was also a heavy nasal sound in her tone.


    Sensing that, Shi Fengju turned and faced her. He gently held her hand and said with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, I only wish to grow old with you and have our hearts beat the same forever in this lifetime. Do you only have me in your heart?¡±


    Sang Wan nodded and whispered in a low voice, ¡°You¡¯re my husband...¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled. His smile was like the east wind blowing over the hillside in the early spring with the flowers blooming everywhere. ¡°Sang Wan,e. Give it a shot!¡±


    Shi Fengju stuffed the ribbon into Sang Wan¡¯s hand with a smile and pulled her to stand beside the huge tree.


    ¡°I...¡± Sang Wan froze and was nervous without a reason. Almost as if the sess or failure of their future depended on her.


    ¡°Sang Wan, quick. I believe that you can.¡± Shi Fengju told her in exhration as he raised his head and narrowed his eyes to look at the tree filled with red ribbons.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll give it a try then.¡± Sang Wan took two steps back. She looked up and aimed before using all her strength as she threw the ribbon up. Their gaze followed the red ribbon, and even Shi Fengju could not help but feel tensed as he held her hand tightly.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Sang Wan eximed disappointedly as the red ribbon did not touch the top of the tree at all. Since she had a weak strength and went a little too far behind, the red ribbon only touched the leaves of the branch before starting to fall.


    Although it fell very slowly, it did not touch a single leaf as it fell, almost as if it was doomed to be.


    Sang Wan was secretly disappointed and nced at Shi Fengju as she felt somewhat ashamed of herself. She really did not mean for it to happen. Maybe it was because her thoughts were impure that heaven decided for this to happen.


    ¡°Sang Wan, look!¡± A gust of wind suddenly blew. The red ribbon suddenly blew forward and hung onto a tree branch before swaying steadily with the wind. Shi Fengju was so happy that he quickly called Sang Wan.


    Sang Wan hurriedly looked up and was delighted when she saw their red ribbon on a branch. She pulled Shi Fengju¡¯s arm and cheered joyfully: ¡°It hung, hung up! Fengju!¡±


    ¡°I knew you could do it! This is Heaven¡¯s will, Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju lifted her up in joy and spun two rounds.


    Sang Wan giggled with her hands around his neck.


    At this moment, her heart was truly filled with unparalleled joy with a faint anticipation deep down. If she could spend a lifetime with him, she would not ask for anything else!


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju rarely saw her smile so brightly from her heart. Such an unreserved smile was even more eye-catching than the dazzling sun shining above their heads. He was used to her reserved and gentle smile, he liked this newfound smile on her face even more.


    He held onto her face and lowered his head to give her a kiss.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress...¡± Liu Ya¡¯s voice reached before her physical self. Seeing what was in front of her, she urgently stopped after speaking and turned around in a flurry as her heart thumped heavily.


    Liu Ya scowled at herself and bit her lip. It seemed she wasn¡¯t being considerate again! Shi Fengju already had a poor opinion of her, so she really did not want to offend him again! However, she really could not be med for this! How would she know that her Young Master wasn¡¯t done being sweet on usual days and did not spare even a sacred ce!


    Although Liu Ya turned around, it only made matters worse. Sang Wan¡¯s face turned red and she pushed Shi Fengju away. The atmosphere was shattered and he frowned. ¡°This damned servant, this damned servant.¡± Shi Fengju quietly scolded Liu Ya several times.


    ¡°Liu Ya, is there something?¡± Sang Wan asked.


    ¡°I came here to...¡±


    ¡°Is this how you should reply to your Master? Hurry up and turn around!¡± Seeing that she still had her back faced towards them and spoke as if minding her own business, Shi Fengju could not help but find it funny as he scolded her.


    ¡°Yes, Young Master!¡± Liu Ya promptly turned around and continued, ¡°The vegetarian feast is ready. I¡¯m here to invite Young Master and Young Mistress over!¡±


    ¡°I almost forgot about that. Sang Wan, are you hungry? Let¡¯s go over now!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and the three of them went to the main hall of the temple together.


    Great Teacher Ling Jing and Great Teacher Ling Qing were waiting at the hall entrance and were talking to each other. Shi Fengju went up to them and gave his thanks before the two monks left. A monk then brought the couple to the dining hall.


    In the hall, there was arge table of roughly seventeen to eighteen dishes on ordinary pure white bowls, arranged into different styles meticulously. The chicken, duck, and fish meat dishes seemed to pass off as real meat. However, they were made from flour, tofu, starch, bean curd skins, yams, bamboo shoots, various types of mushrooms, fungus, bean sprouts, lotus seeds, chestnuts, lilies, and more.

 Chapter 239 - The Vegetarian Feast

    <h4>Chapter 239: The Vegetarian Feast</h4>


    The shrimps with green vegetables were molded from soft broad beans and dried glutinous rice flour, with eggs and seasoning as the main ingredients of the vegetarian shrimps. The broad beans were peeled and cooked with oil, turning their color into dark jade-like green. They were cooked in the pan with oil and stir-fried with ginger slices and mulled rice wine. After which, the broad beans, sugar, salt and other spices were added into the soup first. Once the vor had leaked into the soup, the vegetarian shrimps, which were stir-fried with cornstarch and sprinkled with sesame oil, were added. The red and green gave the soup a vivid color. The broad beans were fragrant and the shrimps were tender. Although they were not real shrimps, they had a distinctive vor.


    The Luojiang Tofu Chicken used soybeans as the main ingredient. The soybeans were first grinded then drained to remove the residue. Once done, the soy milk was poured into the pan and boiled over low heat. When the paste formed a solidyer, theyer was pulled and ced aside to be sun-dried. Then, sesame powder, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and pepper powder were spread evenly on the beancurd skin, wrapped into rectangr pieces, and steamed in a steamer basket to soak various seasonings into it. After being steamed and taken out to cool, they would be cut into small pieces with a uniform diamond shape and served as a dish. It was soft, dry, salty, and chewy.


    The ivory snow bamboo shoot was mainly made from tender bamboo shoots and salted vegetables. The tender bamboo shoots were trimmed into ivory-shaped roots and nched in boiling water. The salted vegetables were washed and cut into sections forter use. Then, peanut oil was added in the pan while the scallion pieces and ginger slices were stir-fried, before cing aside after they gave off a fragrance. Lastly, the tender bamboo shoots were thrown into the pan, cooked, and simmered over low heat before thickening with cornstarch. For the arrangement, the four ivory bamboo shoots were ced in the four corners with the sharp ends pointing outwards and the middle was piled up with salted vegetables. The ivory was pure white while the salted vegetables were light and simple, tasty and fragrant.


    In addition, there were bean curd meat slices, lotus leaf meat, shredded chowder, fish maw with shrimp, fish, and pork, osmanthus scallops, chickpea flowers, crystal duck cubes, high quality dove eggs, fresh mushroom and chicken slices, lotuses, wine-pickled bamboo shoots, crowned daisy vegetables, stir-fried orange day lilies, smoked pine nut and tofu, and other dishes that were all made from vegetarian ingredients.


    Shi Fengju was obviously familiar with all this and could tell Sang Wan about each dish. Although Sang Wan had visited temples a few times before, the vegetarian food served were only stir-fried cabbage, green vegetables, and tofu. Upon seeing the dishes, she was full of praise as they enjoyed the feast. Even Liu Ya and the others got to enjoy a rare instance of fine food.


    When they were done with the vegetarian feast, the sun had set in the west. As such, the two took their leave and went down the hill.


    Nothing happened when they spent a night at an inn. Early the next morning, they set off and rode towards the dock. They got on a boat, and headed towards Qingzhou.


    ¡°We won¡¯t be dyed for long even if we stop over, so there isn¡¯t a need for us to rush too much. We¡¯ll dock ourselves at night and climb ashore to stay in an inn! We¡¯ll just leave two or three people to look after the boat,¡± Shi Fengju said.


    Upon hearing that, it was close to what she wanted. Although she was unlikely to meet with two unlucky encounters in a short period of time, it was better to be safe than sorry. Thus, she agreed with a smile.


    At night, the two of them climbed ashore to stay in an inn, together with Liu Ya.


    Nothing happened during the day journey on the boat. Although Shi Fengju was very energetic, there seemed to be hardly anything to idle away time. At night, he would naturally make love to consume his energy. Seeing that he did not have any restraint at all, she was reluctant. He was a patient who had just recovered from his injuries. If he went back with his health still weak, she would definitely be embarrassed. However, Shi Fengju said half-seriously yet half-jokingly, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯ve made up my mind. We should have a child quickly so that mother can be busy with something instead of letting her imaginations run wild the whole day!¡± Smiling, he also asked how Nanny Li was doing.


    However, what actually gave him such an idea was because of the ident he had met with. The more he thought about it, the more upset he was. If he were not able to leave behind an heir and something happened to him, he would have let his ancestors and wife down. Realizing this misery and with how much he loved his wife, this matter became even more urgent.


    Since Sang Wan thought he made sense, she did not say anything and let him undress her. Having her in his embrace, he pulled her onto the bed.


    Half a monthter, the boat finally reached the shores of Qingzhou¡¯s dock. Because they had sent a horse to report bynd two days ago, Head Servant Jin had been waiting for them at the dock with a group of others. Once Shi Fengju and Sang Wan got off the boat, Head Servant Jin quickly weed them.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Mistress, the both of you are finally back! Old Mistress and the servants have been looking forward to this day every day!¡± As soon as Head Servant Jin saw Shi Fengju, his eyes watered and he could not help but lift up his sleeve to wipe his eyes. He had watched Shi Fengju grow up. When he heard that he had met with a huge mishap, how could he not be concerned? At the sight of him, he suddenly felt as if they had been separated for a long while.


    ¡°Nobody asked all of you to be worried! Aren¡¯t I fine now? Let¡¯s go back to the household!¡± Shi Fengju scolded them with a smile before letting out a soft sigh.


    ¡°Yes, yes. Young Master, Young Mistress, please get onto the carriage. Leave the luggages to me. I¡¯m afraid Old Mistress is anxiously waiting for you!¡± Head Servant Jin hurriedly said with a smile and led Shi Fengju and Sang Wan to the horse carriage.


    After the two of them got in, the carriage headed straight towards the Shi household. The two of them did not speak as Head Servant Jin¡¯s tone made them feel somewhat miserable. It was obvious that Wang Shi must have been very worried.


    Both Shi Fengju and Sang Wan had not expected Wang Shi, Second Old Master Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi, Third Old Master Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi, Gu Fangzi, Nanny Li, and the rest to be waiting at the entrance of the Shi household. When the two of them saw that from a distance, they hurriedly instructed the carriage to pull over.


    ¡°My dear son! You¡¯re finally back!¡± Shi Fengju quickened his pace and lifted his sleeves to kneel and greet his mother. Just when he was about to get down to his knees, Wang Shi stopped him. She hugged him and started crying bitterly while everyone at the side promptlyforted her.


    After some time, Wang Shi slowly regained her senses and observed Shi Fengju from head to toe. Shi Fengju could not help but show her a rxed andfortable expression for her to see. ¡°Mother, look. I¡¯m fine now, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°What nonsense! You don¡¯t look well, and you¡¯ve lost weight!¡± Wang Shi said while sniffling.


    Shi Fengju replied with a smile, ¡°Perhaps I was worn out from the trip. I¡¯ll be fine after resting at home for a few days. Mother, tell the kitchen to make more delicious food for me and it¡¯ll nourish my body!¡±


    Upon hearing that, everyone chuckled, but Wang Shi nodded her head seriously and said, ¡°Of course! You have to rest at home for a few days and not worry about anything else. I¡¯ll ask the kitchen to make ginseng chicken soup for you everyday! Together with some longans, lotus seeds, and white fungus, they¡¯ll be very nourishing for you. You¡¯ll also have a cup of red bird¡¯s nest every morning and night to supplement your blood!¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s scalp went numb from hearing that and he agreed just for his mother to see. Second Old Master Shi and the others quickly persuaded him to go inside, and they all went to Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard.


    When he was seated, Second Old Master Shi and the rest knew that Wang Shi had a lot of things to say to Shi Fengju. They excused themselves and left the mother and son alone.


    ¡°Big Cousin, you¡¯re finally back! Auntie has been worried about you these days and would not listen to anyone. She even became vegetarian and prayed to Buddha!¡± Gu Fangzi said with a slight sigh.


    ¡°Yes, yes. Come quickly. Wash your hands, clean your face, and change your clothes first. We¡¯ll burn an incense to Bodhisattva and our ancestors in the ancestral hall to thank them for their blessings that my son was able to escape from death!¡± Wang Shi hurriedly urged.


    Shi Fengju nodded his head and said, ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll go back to Ning Garden1 with Sang Wan to have a change of clothes first.¡±


    Wang Shi then remembered her daughter-inw who apanied his son back. She nodded her head and said with a smile, ¡°Sang Wan, thank goodness you took good care of Fengju. You¡¯ve done well. Quickly, go get changed first before praying to Bodhisattva and your ancestorster!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my duty.¡± Sang Wan promptly responded before she went out together with Shi Fengju.


    Back at Ning Garden, the masters and servants had many things to talk about. Inevitably, Nanny Li also had a lot of questions, so they could not avoid briefly replying to her. Nanny Li also knew that Wang Shi had been waiting for them, so she asked the servants to help them get changed. After hearing that he was fine, she ced aside everything else that she wanted to ask.


    After praying to Bodhisattva and the ancestors, Wang Shi sent Sang Wan away first before she pulled Shi Fengju and had a look around. Then, she rolled up his sleeve to check on his arm and his injured leg.


    Greatly embarrassed, Shi Fengju quickly took a step back and said with a smile, ¡°Mother, the physician said that I¡¯m fine! Look, aren¡¯t I walking the same as before? There isn¡¯t any difference, right? So don¡¯t look anymore!¡±


    To prove what he had said, Shi Fengju immediately walked back and forth twice in front of Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi observed very carefully and saw that nothing was different. Thus, she was relieved and said, ¡°Is there a scar left on your leg? Were you seriously injured at that time? Let me take a look or else I won¡¯t be at ease!¡±


    Not knowing whether tough or cry, Shi Fengju sighed in his heart: I¡¯m already standing fine before you. Why are you still feeling uneasy? Upon seeing how insistent she was, Shi Fengju could not dissuade her. Sighing, he resigned to his fate and sat on the couch. He took off his shoes, lifted his clothes, rolled up his mid pants, and showed his injury clearly to his mother.


    He had used the ointment prescribed to him for more than a month, and arge piece of skin on his leg was covered with the brown color of the undiminished ointment which highlighted the tragically ferocious scar.


    Wang Shi trembled and gently stroked it with her hands as tears burst out again. ¡°It... it must¡¯ve been painful! My son, how can you be so careless! If anything happens to you, how would I live!¡± Wang Shi was both heartbroken and furious, and scolded him.


    Shi Fengju quickly persuaded her that although the wound looked grave, the doctor was very brilliant. The medicine he used was very effective and the injury did not hurt. He also said that he was still applying the ointment and the scar would disappear after a while.


    However, it set off Wang Shi¡¯s anger again. She scolded Zhan Huan, Head Servant Zhang, and the others badly. She was of the mind to reprimand them, but Shi Fengju managed to dissuade her once more.


    ¡°Big Cousin! Look at how badly your leg was injured!¡± Gu Fangzi suddenly shrieked and rushed in from outside. She leaned forward and reached out to touch Shi Fengju¡¯s leg.


    ¡°Cousin!¡± Shi Fengju shouted sternly and hurriedly pulled his leg away. He pulled down the leg of his pants and his robe as he frowned in dismay.


    Embarrassed, Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand stiffened and she slowly withdrew it before lowering her head to apologize softly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Big Cousin. I¡¯m sorry! I... I was out of my mind just now! Seeing you hurt like this, I... I...¡±


    Feeling awkward and embarrassed, heart-broken and sad, Gu Fangzi whimpered before covering her face as she ran out.

 Chapter 240 - Changes In The Household

    <h4>Chapter 240: Changes In The Household</h4>


    ¡°Fang¡¯er!¡± Wang Shi quickly called out to Gu Fangzi who had run out.


    ¡°You! You scared her!¡± Wang Shi shot her son a re and said, ¡°While you were away, I was lucky to have her apany and console me. Look at you. Without even thanking her, you gave her such a look. How can she feel well!¡±


    Shi Fengju replied, ¡°Mother, I am thankful that she stayed by your side. However, that is another matter. As a youngdy, how can she approach... I can¡¯t ept that!¡±


    Hearing that, Wang Shi quickly nced around her. Nanny Jiang and others tacitly retreated before Wang Shi continued, ¡°I nned to speak with you about this in a few days, but since you¡¯ve mentioned this today, I might as well tell you about it! Fengju, Fang¡¯er is really a gooddy. She treats this family well, she treats me well, and she treats you well! When something happened to you, she was really devastated. s, she still pretended to look happy in front of me as she consoled me. Behind that, she must¡¯ve cried secretly. I went vegetarian and so did she. Every morning and night, she burned incense and prayed to Bodhisattva for your safe return! Fengju, I¡¯ve decided. After some time, the two of you will consummate! She only has you in her heart and doesn¡¯t care about her status. What are you discontented with? I¡¯m sure Sang Wan won¡¯t mind.¡±


    Shi Fengju immediately felt very unhappy and he asked with what seemed like a smile, ¡°Mother, if she cried secretly in private, how would you know?¡±


    ¡°Listen to what you are saying!¡± Wang Shi froze and unconsciously derided. ¡°You¡¯re old enough, but you speak so indifferently! s, sometimes I feel that I don¡¯t understand what you are thinking! In the past, you refused to marry Sang Wan and had to force yourself to marry her into our household after dying for so long. Now, you side with her on everything... I don¡¯t mean anything. I¡¯m naturally delighted to see how harmonious both of you are. However, what did Fang¡¯er do wrong? You can¡¯t abandon her when you have Sang Wan! Unless...¡±


    Doubtful, Wang Shi asked, ¡°Did Sang Wan tell you something in private?¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shi Fengju said with a bitter smile, ¡°Is Sang Wan someone like that? What¡¯s more, do you see your son as someone without his own judgement? Mother, I cannot ept Cousin Fangzi having me in her heart. Mother, don¡¯t ask about this anymore! You don¡¯t have to intervene in this...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s out of the question!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s expression suddenly sank, ¡°Fengju, people say that you¡¯ll be able to see how true your friends are when you are in trouble. When life and death was uncertain, she was only concerned about you, and she cared only about you. She has done so much for this household, even I am touched by her! How can you be like this? What did she do to make you dislike her? I think that whatever she has done is because she only has you in her heart and is afraid to lose you! You can¡¯t belittle her for this. ¡°


    When she saw her son remaining silent, she knew he clearly did not take her words seriously. Thus, she felt angry and helpless, telling him everything that Gu Fangzi had done for the household while he was away.


    Disregarding everything else, there were two things that shocked Shi Fengju.


    ¡°Mother, what did you say? Cousin got herself involved in the Shi Ji sea freight business?¡± Shi Fengju was greatly shocked.


    Although the Shi family had countless fertilends and woods, innumerable restaurants and shops, theirrgest business came from freight transport. The family had its own fleet of nearly two hundred ships,rge and small, that travel between the northern and southern ends of the canal and coastal cities every year. It also does business with many maritime merchants and profit from the price difference of importing and exporting. Every year, the revenue made there ounted for half of the entire family¡¯s earnings.


    Shi Fengju had always been very strict with the sea freight business. Once or twice every year, he would travel with the fleet to the north and south to personally inspect and resolve any issues discovered. Since Qingzhou was at the southern end of the canal, where the Shi family was, the Shi family¡¯s sea freight headquarters was built in Qingzhou and half of Qingzhou¡¯s wharf was owned by them.


    When the two of them got along well in the past, Gu Fangzi also went to the wharf with him. As such, she knew a lot about sea freight and had a good rtionship with many of the supervisors.


    At this moment, raging waves of anger swirled inside Shi Fengju. How dare she take advantage of when he was weak to get involved!


    ¡°Saying that she got herself involved is so unpleasant to hear!¡± Wang Shi frowned and said, ¡°The boat you took to travel outside belongs to our family as well. Regardless of whether the problem lies with the boat or the crew, the crew has to be held responsible! It¡¯s a good thing that Fang¡¯er was able to help! With her intentions, how can you talk about her like this!¡±


    Holding his anger back, Shi Fengju asked, ¡°Did she tell you this too?¡±


    ¡°I think she¡¯s very right!¡± Wang Shi did not deny it. Seeing her son¡¯s expression be more and more ugly, she said, ¡°Don¡¯t me her on this matter. If you want to me anyone, then me me instead. I called several of the supervisors here to hear from them! If you think that Fang¡¯er is greedy for power, you are wrong! She was hesitant at first because she was afraid that you would misunderstand her when you return, but I reassured her not to worry about it! She will tell me about the sea freight¡¯s situation in a few days.¡±


    Not knowing what to say, Shi Fengju hurriedly asked, ¡°Mother, did she ask you to make any decisions? You don¡¯t know anything about the business, so did you tell her anything?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying!¡± Wang Shi said, ¡°Does your mother not even have this self-knowledge? Of course, I don¡¯t know about the business, so there¡¯s no way I¡¯d dare to make any reckless decisions. Our family¡¯s practices are set and the ancestors are watching us! I only told her to remind them to work diligently and inspect all ships regrly to prevent any mistakes. I also told her to remind the workers more often to learn not to panic at critical moments. That¡¯s all!¡±


    That¡¯s all? Shi Feng suddenly felt powerless. Did his mother not know that those words could give rise to countless more words! With those words from his mother, who knew what else Gu Fangzi could do. Although the supervisors were not under Wang Shi¡¯s management, they would not dare to disobey her.


    No words could describe Shi Fengju¡¯s anger. He had not expected Gu Fangzi to be more and morepetent!


    Wang Shi continued talking endlessly, but Shi Fengju no longer listened. iming he was tired as an excuse, he left the courtyard.


    If this made him annoyed, he did not know whether to be happy or worried about what else was toe.


    During the first few weeks of May, Sang Yufei, who had gone to take the imperial examination, returned. He came in third in the examination. He would be going back to the capital to work at Hanlin Academy after giving thanks to his ancestors.


    This was a joyous event. The Shi family, needless to say, was able to add glory from the Sang family¡¯s achievement.


    However, they did not expect the Sang family to tie another knot with their family. The Sang family sent a matchmaker to seek the Shi family¡¯s Third Missy¡¯s hand for the marriage.


    Wang Shi was naturally happy to hear that. The Sang family did not dislike the fact that Shi Lian was a concubine¡¯s daughter and it was also very respectable to have a son-inw who came in third in the examination.


    Although delighted, Wang Shi suddenly remembered that Shi Lian had met with a huge fire. When she saw no scars were left on her leg, she was relieved and vaguely brought up the incident that happened to Shi Lian. Unexpectedly, that matchmaker seemed to have known about the matter and said it was fine. Wang Shi was then really happy.


    Since Sang Yufei had to hurry back to the capital, the faster the marriage was done, the better. Hence, the entire household became busy.


    Shi Lian¡¯s husband came in third in the examination and was the Shi family¡¯s inws. Naturally, Wang Shi refused to neglect him and ordered everything to be handled in ordance to how a daughter would be married off if her mother was not a concubine.


    Other than having to wait for Shi Fengju and his wife to return to decide on the wedding date, everything else was ready and it was all arranged by Gu Fangzi.


    Normally, Gu Fangzi could not get involved as it was inappropriate for a ¡®concubine¡¯ to arrange a young missy¡¯s wedding.


    By mouth, Wang Shi was in charge of it. However, Gu Fangzi was the one on the ground, which made people speechless.


    Deep down, Gu Fangzi was clearly jealous and hated this marriage. What right did an ordinary Shi Lian have to marry the candidate who came in third in the examination as his legal wife? She, who was childhood sweethearts with her cousin, had to be a concubine instead! What¡¯s more, Shi Lian¡¯s husband-to-be was also Sang Wan¡¯s elder brother! This made Gu Fangzi even more unhappy.


    Even so, Gu Fangzi appeared to be happier than anyone, and she became more affectionate towards Shi Lian and took care of everything.


    She knew fully well that this was a golden opportunity! Heaven was clearly siding with her!


    She was certain that by arranging Sang Wan¡¯s elder brother¡¯s marriage wholeheartedly, Sang Wan would not drive her away as soon as she got back! As long as everything went well, she would be able to convince her!


    She believed that Sang Wan would not do that, and neither would the Sang family even if she wished to.


    As for her big cousin who wanted to send her away, Sang Wan would have no choice but to dissuade him.


    Therefore, Gu Fangzi was able to live the days feelingfortable and at ease, and was not worried about their return.


    What she thought was exactly what Shi Fengju was worried about and he knew that he could not do anything to her for the time being.


    At this moment, Sang Wan in the Ning Garden1 listening to Nanny Li talk about the changes that had taken ce in the household while they were away. As such, she also knew about it.


    Shocked and furious, Sang Wan did not manage toe back to her senses for quite a while.


    Deep down, she was puzzled why her second brother would suddenly ask to marry Shi Lian? What horrified her the most was the fact that Gu Fangzi was the one arranging everything for the marriage.


    ¡°Old Mistress is very pleased with Young Master Sang. Although she is delighted with this marriage, she would not personally handle it. Although there are Second Old Mistress and Third Old Mistress in the household, Third Missy is Old Mistress¡¯s daughter. Without Old Mistress saying anything, it was not appropriate for them to get involved. I¡¯m sure Miss Gu had a part to y in Old Mistress making the decision!¡± Nanny Li said angrily with a sigh.


    Sang Wan did not say a word. In this case, does this mean she owes Gu Fangzi a favor?


    Her mind was already in chaos, Gu Fangzi just had to visit her precisely at this moment to ¡®show concern¡¯ and give her ¡®congrattions¡¯. Naturally, she also mentioned the marriage.


    It was only when Shi Fengju came back, did Gu Fangzi take her leave with a broad smile on her face.

 Chapter 241 - She Did Not Gain An Advantage

    <h4>Chapter 241: She Did Not Gain An Advantage</h4>


    The atmosphere in the room suddenly turned somewhat awkward and gloomy. Sang Wan¡¯s heart was in chaos and could not help but mock her greed secretly. Yes, she was indeed greedy! Didn¡¯t Gu Fangzi be ¡®Concubine Gu¡¯ in her previous life? In this lifetime, she was able to marry into the Shi Family and be ¡®Concubine Gu¡¯ too. It was her wishful thinking to free herself from her, but that would be impossible!


    Shi Fengju saw her being silent and did not feel good. He pulled her into the warm room and held her hand as he said, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely do what I promised you.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Sang Wan¡¯s nose turned sour and her eyes uncontroble turned watery. She slowly held back her emotions and raised her eyes to look at him with a slight smile, ¡°Fengju, let¡¯s not talk about this for now! If we do, how will the entire household think of us? Besides, Mother will never approve of it!¡±


    Shi Fengju could not help but be a little jittery and he grumbled, ¡°If I knew I would be so troubleding back, we should not havee back!¡±


    Sang Wan tittered at that and said, ¡°What are you saying! We can¡¯t stay outside forever! Besides, even if we don¡¯te back, this matter won¡¯t disappear.¡±


    The older Gu Fangzi bes as the years go by, the less likely for her to leave.


    Sang Wan always knew that Gu Fangzi was difficult. She did not want to suffer again in this lifetime as she did in the previous life, so she brought up the request to Shi Fengju. But by the looks of it now, she had been too naive to think it would be so simple. Gu Fangzi¡¯s means were endless and beyond her imagination.


    How would Shi Fengju not know that he had said that in a pique? With a smile, he embraced her and lowered his head to kiss her gently. ¡°Sang Wan, just nurse your health well and give birth to a son. Don¡¯t worry about anything else. I won¡¯t let you suffer. Nobody can force anyone I dislike to be by my side!¡±


    Shi Fengju understood that any amount of love would not be able to cover up all the torment. Even if Sang Wan did not say anything, he would not tolerate keeping a woman with a stomach full of schemes who would even scheme against him.


    After dinner, Shi Fengju went to Peony Park2. It had been a long time since he stepped foot in there.


    Gu Fangzi and Lan Xiang were delighted to see him and greeted him with a smile.


    Lan Xiang was really happy. She was sure that her Young Master had seen what Gu Fangzi did for him and was touched by her good intentions. Didn¡¯t hee to visit her not long after returning home? This was unimaginable in the usual days.


    Although Gu Fangzi had a smile on her face, she was vignt on the inside. When something was out of the ordinary, there must be a demon. Her Big Cousin¡¯s arrival must not be something good. Her aunt might not be aware of the wicked deeds carried out under the banner of virtue, but she would not be able to hide them from him.


    Before Shi Fengju spoke, Gu Fangzi dismissed Lan Xiang first. She went forth with a smile and bowed. ¡°Congrattions, Big Cousin! You¡¯ve turned a disaster into a blessing and returned safely. This is simply something worth celebrating and is also our good fortune!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not strangers, so you ??don¡¯t have to be so polite!¡± Shi Fengju smiled slightly. He picked a chair randomly, and sat down before saying with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve stayed idle thanks to my injuries, but I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve worked hard! I used to underestimate you, so I never actually knew that you¡¯d be so capable! In less than two months, you¡¯ve dealt with everything inside and outside the household rigorously. I have to say that, that is admirable!¡±


    The smile on Gu Fangzi¡¯s face stiffened and she forced herself to question, ¡°Big Cousin, what do you mean? Are you ming me for being meddlesome? I don¡¯t have the intentions to, but Aunt Wang...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t pull my mother into this!¡± Shi Fengju went on lightly, ¡°My mother is credulous and doesn¡¯t think things thoroughly. She¡¯s like a bowl of clear water that anyone can see through at a nce. You¡¯re witty and raised by my mother from a young age. Don¡¯t tell me that you don¡¯t know how she is.¡±


    ¡°So what you¡¯re saying is that I nned everything in advance?¡± Ayer of tears gradually filled Gu Fangzi¡¯s eyes, blurring her vision. Blinking her eyes gently, two drops of clear tears fell and rolled down her fair cheeks.


    Everything before her eyes were blurry and in pieces, just like her feelings now.


    ¡°I swear that I handled everything for Big Cousin and the Shi family sincerely without any selfish motives. If you doubt me, you can check the ounts in the sea freight! You can also call over all the supervisors and head servants to inquire and see whether I gained anything from that! The reason why I got involved was because I knew that sea freight is our Shi family¡¯s top business and no mistakes must happen. Since you were recuperating, if nobody takes care of the sea freight business at every moment, who knows what other thoughts they might have! You¡¯ve misunderstood me. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll clear up all themerce and not get involved anymore! This way, will you believe me?¡±


    Gu Fangzi spoke so righteously and solemnly. Anyone who heard that would have felt moved.


    However, Shi Fengju just nced at her indifferently and said calmly, ¡°I won¡¯t check the ounts and I don¡¯t have to call the supervisors and head servants in for questioning. If I check on you without a reason today, others will naturally wonder if I will do the same to them. You know that I would not do such a thing without evidence. Moreover, those few supervisors and head servants are not idiots, they should be clear that the ounts and business dealings were never things you could meddle in! You don¡¯t have to exin to me what you think. In any case, my mother believes you, no? Then you won¡¯t have to go over tomorrow. I¡¯m sure that whatever they have, they¡¯ll report to me! Also, there will be no next time. Do you hear me?¡±


    Staring at him in disbelief, Gu Fangziughed in distress. ¡°Big Cousin, do you really hate me so much now? You¡¯re even loathing everything that I do? Big Cousin, what thoughts can I have? I only think of you and only you. I only want to spend a lifetime with you! In the past, you clearly promised me that you will not go back on your words, but now you...¡±


    Gu Fangzi could taste the bitterness in her mouth as she sobbed uncontrobly.


    ¡°Yes, I went back on my words. I regret promising you that! Are you satisfied with what you hear? We¡¯ve long had nothing to say to each other. Why are you still so stubborn?¡± Shi Fengju said coldly.


    Gu Fangzi had not expected him to be so straightforward. After she returned to her senses, she gritted her teeth and asked, ¡°Why? I can change my shorings. If Sister Sang Wan misunderstood anything, I can exin to her! Big Cousin, I...¡±


    ¡°Fangzi!¡± Shi Fengju had really wanted to cut open her head to see what was contained inside. ¡°Why must you keep pestering me? This doesn¡¯t even concern Sang Wan! I¡¯ve told you clearly that I had a change of heart! Don¡¯t exploit my mother or scheme in front of her in the future, you¡¯ll only make me despise you more! And don¡¯t be in such a hurry to exin to me! I¡¯m not like my mother, so there is no point in exining to me! Also, you¡¯d better stay as far away as you can from Sang Wan. If you dare to harm her, I definitely won¡¯t let you off! You better behave yourself! So long as I refuse, my mother won¡¯t be able to do anything!¡±


    Shi Fengju nced at her for thest time. He did not have the slightest sympathy for the pitiful expression on her face that was trickling with tears. He shook his head slightly and walked out of Peony Park.


    Looking up, Shi Fengju felt relieved. He looked at the starry sky above, but his heart still felt heavy and ufortable. On one side was Gu Fangzi¡¯s endless entanglement with him, and on the other side was his mother who could not see the truth. He really wanted to leave home with simply Sang Wan to live a few days of peace.


    Shi Fengju unknowingly returned to the study room. He sat alone for a long time behind the big and spacious desk until the candlelight in front of him flickered a few times as if it was about to burn out. Then, he regained his senses and nced at the western clock ced at the corner of his desk. ¡°Oh no!¡± Shi Fengju eximed before he hurriedly returned to Ning Garden1.


    When Shi Fengju returned, Sang Wan had already gone to bed. Zhide and a young servant, who were on night duty, took the hot water out from the kitchen briskly to wait upon him to wash his face and feet before helping him to the room to rest.


    The curtain had been hung down softly around the bed, and only the indistinct embroidered nket could be seen. When Shi Fengju gently opened the curtains, Sang Wan opened her eyes slightly.


    ¡°Did I disturb you?¡± Shi Fengju smiled and no longer held back as he climbed up the bed.


    Sang Wan shifted inwards slightly and lightly shook her head, ¡°I thought you weren¡¯ting back!¡±


    Upon hearing her feigning anger coquettishly with a bit of hidden bitterness, Shi Fengju promptly answered, ¡°I... I went to the study room afterwards. I wanted toe back after sitting there for a while, but ended up forgetting the time.¡±


    The two of them were well aware of where he had gone ¡®first¡¯ and did not wish to mention it. Since Shi Fengju did not say where he had been, Sang Wan naturally did not ask him.


    Sang Wan opened her eyes and stared at Shi Fengju. When she faintly noticed that his brows were knitted slightly, a creeping uneasiness welled up in her heart. She had been too greedy and made things too difficult for him!


    ¡°Fengju.¡± Sang Wan sat up all of a sudden and said, ¡°I can see that you¡¯re in a difficult position, I... let¡¯s forget about the promise! Take it as if I didn¡¯t mention it!¡±


    No one could win over Heaven. Some things were destined to happen and some people were destined to be entangled. It was not something that she could change by working hard. Just like when she opened her eyes again after dying, that very moment just had to be when she was in the bridal sedan heading towards the Shi household!


    Under the faint and gentle light, she shifted her eyes slightly and said it to him. Light blue cotton clothes that pressed on her skin and ck hair which hung down from her left shoulder to her chest; just like her name, she was gentle and tactful which made him want to cherish her in his embrace.


    ¡°Sang Wan.¡± Shi Fengju sighed slightly then stretched his hand out and pulled her towards him before he said gently, ¡°This doesn¡¯t concern you. Even if you didn¡¯t mention that, I cannot tolerate her!¡±


    After a moment of silence, Sang Wan finally replied, ¡°Since you say that, I won¡¯t say anything else. Fengju, you mustn¡¯t be overly hasty. I¡¯m very worried that something will happen.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll protect you!¡± Shi Fengju held onto her hands tightly.


    Just when Shi Fengju wanted to pull her to lie back on the bed, Sang Wan suddenly said with a smile, ¡°Oh, I almost forgot. Did Zhide make you drink the bird¡¯s nest just now?¡±


    Shi Fengju frowned. ¡°Why would I still eat thatte at night! Go to sleep quickly. It¡¯s gettingte!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Sang Wan quickly broke away from his embrace and said with a smile, ¡°Nanny Jiang personally sent it over, together with Mother¡¯s words. She wants you to eat it before you sleep. I didn¡¯t know you woulde back thiste. Otherwise, I would have sent someone to deliver it to your study room! It¡¯s still being kept warm in the kitchen now! Get up quickly and eat it. If not, I won¡¯t know what to say tomorrow if Mother asks me about it!¡± Sang Wan urged and pushed him to do so.

 Chapter 242 - Become Related By Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 242: Be Rted By Marriage</h4>


    Shi Fengju looked at her helplessly before he shook his head and got up. One old and one young woman were enough already. He was uncertain whether he would still have the energy left to deal with a third one in his life.


    When Zhide saw that her Young Master hade out while draping on his clothes and grumbling, she suddenly recalled the goblet and hurriedly said with a smile, ¡°I must have been muddled, to even forget such a huge matter!¡± Having said that, she went to the small kitchen and brought out the goblet of bird¡¯s nest together with a bowl and spoon before serving him.


    Shi Fengju finished it with a few mouthfuls and rinsed his mouth before returning to the chamber. Sang Wan was lying on the bed waiting for him. When she saw him, she was bbergasted and said, ¡°So fast! You should¡¯ve eaten it slowly. Wolfing the food down will only make your stomach ufortable!¡±


    Shi Fengju did not say anything. He held onto her and gave her a firm kiss before he gasped for breath and said, ¡°You¡¯re so naggy. Be careful or I¡¯ll sort you out!¡±


    ¡°Stop fooling around!¡± Sang¡¯s Wan cheeks turned red from the kiss and she scolded, ¡°You have many things to handle tomorrow! Go to sleep quickly!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled. He pulled her onto his arm and said some nice words before going to sleep. After returning back today, many things had happened. At this moment, he did not have the mood to make a din.


    The next day, Shi Fengju went to meet the supervisors of his family¡¯s sea freight business and he listened to their reports one by one. Of course, a few of them asked why it wasn¡¯t Gu Fangzi who came. Shi Fengju arbitrarily found an excuse and didn¡¯t say more.


    He secretly ensured that all of the sea freight¡¯s operations were in order and remained the same as they were before he had left. In other words, he erased every trace of Gu Fangzi¡¯s intervention. Shi Fengju did not trust Gu Fangzi now. He did not believe that she would do nothing after beating around the bush with his mother in order to get herself involved. This was too strange!


    For the time being, he would have to hold back his doubts. After Sang Wan returned from greeting Wang Shi, she picked a pair of jeweled bottles, a set of gold-embedded head ornaments, a white jade scepter, and two red and golden silk-wrapped embroidery. She went together with Nanny Li to Fu Qu Lodge to pay Shi Lian a visit and give them to her.


    Nanny Li joked with a smile, ¡°It¡¯ll be so lively here! Young Mistress, she¡¯s going to be your younger sister-inw as well as your older brother¡¯s wife. When the two of you meet in the future, it¡¯ll be interesting!¡±


    Sang Wan could not help but chuckle and said with a smile before letting out a sigh, ¡°That¡¯s not true! She will still be my younger sister-inw. But when I return home in the future and meet her, I don¡¯t know whether to call her my younger sister-inw or my older sister-inw!¡±


    Nanny Li said with a smile, ¡°I heard that Second Young Master Sang will be taking up a new post in the capital soon. I¡¯m afraid that it will be hard to meet him in the future.¡±


    Sang Wan felt a little reluctant after hearing that but she said with a smile, ¡°Yes, just like Third Uncle, he won¡¯t being back for many years after being a government official! It will be difficult to meet them in the future!¡±


    Her second brother had passed his imperial examinations brilliantly. It was supposed to be a joyous asion as the Sang family could finally hold their heads high. However, upon hearing that, Sang Wan¡¯s joyous feeling became greatly dampened.


    Upon seeing Sang Wan feel slightly emotional, Nanny Li hurriedly smiled and changed the topic. Sang Wan knew of her good intentions and also smiled without saying a word.


    Although Fu Qu Lodge was still the same as before, the atmosphere was clearly different. The gate had been decorated with many bright-colored blooming flowers to give it a vibrant look.


    The furniture in the house had been reced, even the hanging curtains and many others had been changed to a rose-tinted color. In addition to that, there were also four more pretty servants who were the dowry that Old Mistress had chosen for Shi Lian.


    Hearing that Sang Wan wasing, Shi Lian was likewise a bit embarrassed. As a bride who was about to be married, she was more shy than Sang Wan, but she had to greet her personally. Upon seeing Sang Wan, she lowered her head, seemingly not daring to look at her in the eyes as she greeted, ¡°Eldest Sister-inw!¡±


    ¡°Third Sister, you¡¯re too polite!¡± Sang Wan helped her up with a smile. She wore a lc pink embroidered outer coat, a round neck blouse, and a red-plum fish scales pleated skirt that was white at the bottom. Her waist was tied around with a silver-blue band, and a white-jade double-fished girdle ornament hung on it. Shebed two loops in her hair and a gem-embedded hairpin with flowers, as well as many delicate rose ornaments, was inserted. The way she dressed was much better than the way she usually did and it made her brighter and cheerier.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, you went out of your way toe and see me after taking care of my elder brother. How can I not feel apologetic!¡± When the two of them sat down together, Shi Lian said with a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re being too polite. When I heard about such a joyous asion aftering back, I ought to congratte you! Congrattions, Third Sister. In the future, we¡¯ll be even closer to each other! I didn¡¯t expect you to have such a fate with our Sang family!¡± Sang Wan eximed with a smile. With that, Nanny Li and the others presented the gifts.


    Shi Lian¡¯s face flushed red from the embarrassment and she hurriedly thanked her with a smile. Then, she instructed Cai Yun and others to receive the gifts and put them away before she instructed a servant to serve tea and leave after she signalled them with a look.


    Shi Lian said to Sang Wan, ¡°Ever since you married into our family, you¡¯ve been taking care of me. I¡¯ve always been very grateful towards you! To be able to marry into the Sang family is my blessing.¡± As she said that, she was about to get up to thank Sang Wan with a bow.


    ¡°No need for that!¡± Sang Wan quickly pulled her back to her seat before she said half-jokingly, ¡°Soon, I will have to call you ¡®Second Sister-inw¡¯. If you¡¯re so courteous to me like this, how can I live with that!¡¯


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan!¡± Shi Lian could not face her teasing and her face immediately turned red. She then whispered, ¡°To me, you¡¯re forever my eldest sister-inw. You didn¡¯t despise me for being a concubine¡¯s daughter and that is my blessing.¡±


    Sang Wan suddenly had an urge to pamper her and said softly, ¡°Don¡¯t think that way! Our Sang family is from the countryside. Even though my second brother passed the examinations brilliantly, he is still new to the officialdom. We don¡¯t know what his future will be like! He¡¯s a good person and I only hope that you will go through thick and thin with him. He will definitely live up to your expectations! There¡¯s also my eldest brother and eldest sister-inw.¡± Sang Wan slightly muttered, ¡°My eldest brother is an honest and sincere person while my eldest sister-inw is very straightforward and quite stubborn. After you get married into the family, I hope you can get along well with them.¡±


    Shi Lian nodded. ¡°Sister Sang Wan, don¡¯t worry. I will! Since I¡¯ll be marrying into the Sang family and bing a daughter-inw, it is my duty to go through thick and thin with my husband. I will also respect the both of them!¡±


    Sang Wan replied with a smile, ¡°You have always been gentle and kind. Cai Yun has followed you for many years and is well-informed. As for those few... servants that belong to wealthier families, they may be a little more arrogant. Since they¡¯ll be following you as your servants in the future, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll have to be more strict with them! Our Sang household isn¡¯t as extravagant as the Shi household and doesn¡¯t pay any particr attention to everything. Some things to take note about my eldest sister-inw: she cannot tolerate pretentious acts! I shouldn¡¯t be saying this to you, but I would like to remind you because I don¡¯t want you to have any hostility towards her. If you cannot understand my intention, then take it as I didn¡¯t say anything!¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan!¡± Shi Lian¡¯s eyes turned red and she held onto Sang Wan¡¯s hand, ¡°Only you will tell me all these! How can I not understand your intentions and me you? I also found those servants given to me unpleasant. By word of mouth, it is said that Mother picked them for me, but they are actually picked by the one in Peony Park2 instead! I am fine if they¡¯re honest, but if they dare to be disrespectful towards any of their masters, I will get rid of them even before we go to the capital!¡±


    Sang Wan was relieved upon hearing that and said with a smile, ¡°I was worried for nothing! It¡¯s good that you think this way! My eldest sister-inw is very easy to get along with, so don¡¯t worry!¡±


    Shi Lian quickly seized the opportunity to ask Sang Wan about many things regarding the Sang family. Sang Wan told her that in order for her to get along well with her brother and his wife in the future, it was more important not to create any trouble¡ªHeaven knows what Sang Pingliang and his wife would do to incite disharmony? If she were to face a problem with her eldest-sister-inw because of them, it would be difficult to resolve in the future! And so, whatever she said, Shi Lian remembered carefully.


    Since Sang Wan had returned, and this uing marriage was rted to the Sang family, this matter should be handed over to her. Perhaps Gu Fangzi had received a blow by Shi Fengjust night. Thus, she fell ill today. At noon, Wang Shi called Sang Wan over and ordered her to take over the marriage arrangements. She also nced at her meaningfully, but said nothing afterwards.


    Sang Wan remained calm and unafraid of what she would say. That little hope in her was not willing to perish because of Shi Fengju¡¯s words. As for herself, she had already let it go. Even if she did not wish to, what can she do?


    When Gu Fangzi previously made the arrangements, she initially wanted Nanny Li to help as well. But would Nanny Liply with her? She used Ning Garden1 as an excuse, saying that she could not leave because her Young Master and Young Mistress were not present so she had to look after the ce. However, she would follow the matter closely in the dark.


    ¡°Young Mistress, there may be acts of misbehavior that I believe can be investigated without much trouble. Why don¡¯t I conduct an investigation to uncover the greed present in the arrangement? Otherwise, we¡¯ll be easily letting off that fox as a good person!¡± Nanny Li was eager to try.


    During the preparations for festivals or huge events, the servants and nannies would strive to gain benefits, and that was the norm. As long as they did not go overboard, the one in-charge of making the decisions had the choice to turn a blind eye to that.


    Sang Wan slightly muttered to herself and shook her head, ¡°Hasn¡¯t that been the case all along? Forget it! It¡¯ll only be making more trouble for us!¡±


    Unresigned to that, Nanny Li said, ¡°That would mean letting that fox off easily even after she took the household¡¯s money to gain favors and bribe them! Young Mistress, if you don¡¯t say something about it, I¡¯m afraid that they might secretlyugh at you for being clueless!¡±


    That is true too!


    After pondering, Sang Wan said, ¡°Let those few people know that we are aware of their deeds! They won¡¯t have to return the benefits they¡¯ve received. Nanny Li, even though Cousin Fangzi might have secretly given them some benefits, if we take them back, won¡¯t they hate us for that?¡±


    Nanny Li knocked her forehead and said with a smile, ¡°That is my bad! I almost got yed by that fox! If Young Mistress says so, then so be it! Leave this to me!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and nodded her head.


    When Shi Fengju came back in the afternoon, Wang Shi called for him.

 Chapter 243 - Shi Lian Getting Married

    <h4>Chapter 243: Shi Lian Getting Married</h4>


    Wang Shi felt very uneasy. The first thing she did was scold him for being disobedient. Why was he in such a hurry to return to the business again? Hadn¡¯t theye to an agreement that he would rest for a few more days? But how could Shi Fengju rest after knowing that Gu Fangzi got involved in the business? He repeatedly assured her that he was fine, and she could only sigh before telling him toe back early every day!


    Upon seeing that his mother had let this matter go, Shi Fengju hurriedly agreed.


    Wang Shi nced at him and said again, ¡°Did you go to Peony Park2 yesterday? What did you say to Fang¡¯er? She fell sick again today!¡±


    Shi Fengju was surprised yet furious. She fell sick because of a few words that he said? Why hadn¡¯t he seen her so weak before?


    ¡°Mother, can we not talk about this? Maybe she¡¯s exhausted from all the work these days. And as if my words would even work on her!¡±


    ¡°Listen to what you¡¯re saying!¡± Wang Shi said angrily, ¡°Hadn¡¯t she been working hard for you? You have to reassure her so that she can get better soon! Today, you have to give me a word of promise! When exactly will you consummate with her?¡±


    When Shi Fengju heard about ¡®Gu Fangzi¡¯ and ¡®consummation¡¯, he answered after some thoughts, ¡°Mother, Sang Wan¡¯s second brother came in third in the examination and their family is now busy preparing for the uing joyous asion. Yet here I am, being urged to consummate. Isn¡¯t this deliberately disrespecting the Sang family? Both brothers from the Sang family love their younger sister, Sang Wan, dearly. How can they not have any opinion on this? Mother, we¡¯ll talk about this slowly again in the future. I¡¯ll be leaving first if there¡¯s nothing else! I want to go back and rest. I¡¯m feeling a bit tired!¡±


    Wang Shi went to Peony Park to see Gu Fangzi¡¯s pitiful-looking face today. She had decided to get her disobedient son to say something dependable. However, when she heard that he was tired and wanted to rest, she kept her words and waved her hands, ¡°Alright, go back and rest! Let me tell you, don¡¯t think I¡¯ll let this matter go. Think carefully about this and I¡¯ll ask you again in a few days. Nanny Jiang, remind me if I forget! And another thing, did Sang Wan serve you the bird¡¯s nest I sent over yesterday?¡±


    ¡°I ate it! I ate it! There¡¯s no way Sang Wan would forget your instructions!¡± Shi Fengju was getting a little impatient and he muttered to himself: Nothing but frustration at home. How I wish to bring Sang Wan out with me.


    ¡°Oh, Mother. Don¡¯t you think you might want to send someone to pick Eldest Sister up to stay over for a few days? Her third sister is getting married. It¡¯s a joyous asion!¡± Shi Fengju said suddenly. If my eldest sisteres back, then she¡¯ll be able to share part of Mother¡¯s energy and less focus will be on me.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Without thinking, Wang Shi replied with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s no wonder I felt like I¡¯ve forgotten something! Of course, we have to fetch your eldest sister back! I¡¯ll send someone there tomorrow! I wonder if they¡¯re doing well in Mengxian!¡±


    Shi Fengju acknowledged and left.


    On this day, the Shi family had sent a message to the Sang family to inform them that Shi Fengju and Sang Wan were back. A matchmaker, who was engaged by the Sang family, soon arrived on the next day and the Shi family set a good day to fetch the bride, which was on the eighth of June. There were only ten days left.


    After the day was decided, the final stage of preparations quickly began. They purchased various goods that could only be found in the mountains, dried goods, exotic delicacies, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, rice and noodles, fine wine, sweets, melons, and more. In addition to that, they had to check the tables, chairs, and tableware for the banquet; invite an emcee and a percussion team; prepare red ¡®Ï²¡¯ characters, red balls of silk safflower, and bonsai of flowers; check the bride¡¯s wedding scarf, as well as a final check on the chest to ensure that the dowry was ready and nothing wascking, send out wedding invitations to friends and families, and many more. Not only was Sang Wan busy, even Second Old Mistress Shi and Third Old Mistress Shi went to help. Because of that, Wang Shi could not avoid helping as well and she went to check the dowry.


    The entire household was bustling except for the bride, Shi Lian. At the thought that they were all busy because of her, she was deeply moved. She had never expected herself to have such a glorious day. After all, she was someone who was never considered to y second fiddle in the household, but she unexpectedly became the focus of attention! As the saying goes: ¡®The affairs of the world are unpredictable¡¯.


    The head servant, who went to Mengxian to fetch Shi Yumei and her husband, returned empty-handedly. He hurriedly went to report to Wang Shi that the both of them were not free and would not being back!


    Astonished, Wang Shi hurriedly eximed, ¡°Not free? As the eldest daughter and eldest son-inw, how can they note to attend such a great joyous asion? What can be more important than this! Did you ry my message properly?¡±


    The head servant quickly answered, ¡°I did, but Eldest Missy indeed told me so!¡±


    Would Wang Shi even believe him? She scolded the head servant for being muddled and not knowing how to handle the situation. She waved her hand for him to leave before she called Shi Fengju over and told him. She wanted him to send someone more appropriate to Mengxian.


    Shi Fengju immediately understood what had happened and said with a smile, ¡°Since Mother doesn¡¯t feel assured, I¡¯ll send someone there tomorrow! But I think that maybe they really don¡¯t have the time. Doesn¡¯t Brother-inw have to study? And there¡¯s no way Big Sister can leave when she has to take care of him! I think just let them be!¡±


    Shi Fengju actually found his eldest sister pitiful. The second son of the Sang family hade in third in the examination. After a person like his eldest brother-inw knew about that, would he still want toe? His eldest sister and third sister were never on good terms too. Upon hearing that Shi Lian was marrying an official, who came in third in the examination, to be his wife, would she want toe over to congratte her? She was strong-minded after all!


    Not to forget, if her rtives and friends were to ask about her husband, it would only make her more sullen.


    At that time, after he mentioned to his mother to fetch his eldest sister and left her courtyard, he knew that it would not be possible.


    Wang Shi did not think of that, and said, ¡°You¡¯ll send someone there tomorrow! Even if they¡¯re busy, can¡¯t they write a letter? Don¡¯t they even know how to do that?¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled without saying a word.


    On the next day, no one was sent. However, Shi Fengju went to meet Wang Shi with a brocade box. In the box was a pair of dragon and phoenix engraved golden bracelets, and he said to Wang Shi with a smile, ¡°Big Sister and Brother-inw really couldn¡¯te. He has to study hard and it¡¯ll be hard for him to get back to studying if he took a break! They gave this pair of golden bracelets to Third Sister instead!¡±


    Wang Shi was then relieved and said with a smile, ¡°They don¡¯t have an easy time either. They should¡¯ve left that money for themselves, yet they bought this for your third sister! You have to tell your third sister about this so that she¡¯ll remember how good her eldest sister and brother-inw are to her. In the future, she ought to help them if she can!¡±


    Shi Fengju casually acknowledged and left.


    Very soon, it was the eighth of June. Since the night before, the household had been extraordinarily lively. The red silk brocades were hung everywhere and the huge rednterns dangling by the door were not extinguished for the entire night. On the day of the wedding, it was even more lively. Every person in Qingzhou came as news about the marriage was spread far and wide. The news about the Shi family¡¯s soon-to-be son-inwing in third in the imperial examinations was also a reputable matter, so of course they had toe. Not only did those who received the invitatione, but also those who did not. Fortunately, the Shi family had anticipated it and arranged adequate manpower to guide and serve the guests. Many were from the Shi business and country houses and they were temporarily transferred to help. Although everyone was busy, no mistakes were made and the Shi family sessfully married off the bride!


    Afterwards, a banquet was arranged in thergest hall within the household in advance and everyone was invited for dinner. It was not until thete evening that thest guests were sent off. Several head servants and the servants from the household department got busy with managing the cleanup, ensuring everything was ounted for, and handing them over to the storehouse. As the person overseeing all of it, Sang Wan had to utilize all of her servants from Ning Garden1 and barely managed to put everything back to order after two days.


    On the third day after the wedding, the newly married couple returned to the bride¡¯s parental home.


    What was least expected was that Shi Yumei returned with Cui Zhu on the first day Shi Lian was toe back, saying that she came to see her third sister and brother-inw. This made everyone bbergasted, but Wang Shi was naturally happy.


    It was a busy day and the kitchen was instructed to prepare the banquet dishes that were to be served at noon. Early in the morning, the ancestral hall was cleaned. Joss sticks, candles, joss papers, and offerings were prepared for Shi Lian and Sang Yufei to pray to their ancestors.


    At noon, a head servant came to report, ¡°Third Young Mistress and Third Young Master Sang is back!¡± Shi Fengju and Sang Wan went out to wee them.


    Seeing each other was naturally a sight of affection. Sang Wan had not seen her second brother for a long time and she finally got to see him this time. Her eyes could not help but tear and she stepped forward, congratting him with a smile. Sang Yufei also had a lot of things to say, but held himself back and only smiled as he looked at her before he said with a sigh, ¡°I¡¯ve troubled you with my matters.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Sang Wan smiled and replied, ¡°Second Brother, please don¡¯t say that. I¡¯m d to be able to arrange such a joyous asion for you! I really did not expect to have this chance in my life!¡±


    Several peopleughed when they heard that. Only the newly wedded Shi Lian lowered her head and giggled as her face turned red.


    Then, everyone went to Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard. At this moment, Wang Shi, Second Old Master Shi and his wife, and Third Old Master Shi and his wife were already seated. Shi Yumei stood behind Wang Shi and the servants filled the ce.


    When Sang Yufei and Shi Lian came in, they greeted everyone and sat down. The room became lively again, and the servants immediately came in with tea for Sang Yufei and Shi Lian to serve the elders.


    Sang Yufei was now an official. Before he could kneel, Wang Shi raised her hand to stop him before instructing Nanny Jiang to help him back to his seat.


    Shi Yumei, who was standing behind Wang Shi, had her gaze on the newlywed couple ever since they came in. Everyone had a happy smile on their faces, but only she had an indifferent and reserved expression. Deep down, however, she was feeling sour.


    Sang Yufei was a tad more refined and elegant than he was before. Indeed, a person who had sessfully climbed thedder of sess was different. As for Shi Lian, she wore a red and gold embroidered outer coat with wide-sleeves, a dress with sixteen different depictions, and a gold hairpin in her hair. Upon seeing her dressed in a bright and neat manner, and with modesty across her face, Shi Yumei felt even more sour.


    She could not help butin silently. Why did her mother agree to this marriage? Isn¡¯t this clearly indulging that wretch and making her climb over her head? Her own daughter could notpare with a bastard girl. Could it be that all the glory that was once hers would be shifted over to her?

 Chapter 244 - Going Back Home On The Third Day

    <h4>Chapter 244: Going Back Home On The Third Day</h4>


    Upon hearing Wang Shi¡¯s order, Nanny Jiang stepped forward to help Sang Yufei. Shi Yumei could not help but open her mouth to speak. However, Sang Yufei interjected with a smile and raised his hand to refuse Nanny Jiang¡¯s help. Together with Shi Lian, he knelt in front of Wang Shi and said with a smile, ¡°How can we forget traditions? Mother, please ept this cup of tea!¡±


    Everyone froze and then started smiling very soon. ¡°Alright, alright,¡± Wang Shi smiled and said delightedly before drinking the tea they offered without hesitation. After acknowledging them, she gave them a gift.


    When it was Second Old Master Shi, Third Old Master Shi, and their wives¡¯ turn, they declined to receive his kowtow. Sang Yufei insisted and bowed at the very least.


    After the ceremony ended, they went to the ancestral hall to pray to the ancestors. Then, Second Old Master Shi and his brother, as well as Shi Fengju, invited Sang Yufei to the reception pavilion to have a talk. Naturally, Shi Lian followed her mother-inw and two aunts to tell them in detail about her experiences in the Sang family and how well she was getting along with her eldest sister-inw. She also listened respectfully to her mother¡¯s guidance.


    Wang Shi then said with a smile, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be so blessed as to be the wife of an official! You have to remember to serve your husband well in the future and be filial to his sister-inw! Don¡¯t throw away our Shi family¡¯s reputation! As long as you live your lifefortably, I won¡¯t have anything to worry about when I reunite with yourte father!¡±


    Shi Lian stood up hurriedly and bowed in acknowledgement.


    Wang Shi didn¡¯t have much to say to her. After asking her briefly how she was, she instructed her to return to Fu Qu Lodge to rest. When her gazended on Shi Yumei, who was staring at Shi Lian the entire time, she said with a smile, ¡°Yumei, since you happen to have nothing to do, why don¡¯t you see her off? It¡¯ll be hard for the two of you to meet in the future!¡±


    Wang Shi put a lot of thought into it. All she hoped was for Shi Yumei to be on good terms with Shi Lian so that Sang Yufei could help Ren Zhixian in the future. Shi Yumei was reluctant at first, but after thinking about something, she finally agreed and went out together with Shi Lian.


    Knowing that Shi Lian would be returning, the servants had already been sent to tidy up Fu Qu Lodge. Therefore, by the time Shi Lian and Shi Yumei arrived, tea and refreshments were ready to be served.


    Shi Lian did not have much to say to Wang Shi, let alone Shi Yumei. Upon arrival, she racked her brain toe up with an excuse to make Shi Yumei leave. However, Shi Yumei took the initiative to sit down before eyeing her with a smile.


    As a result, it became difficult for Shi Lian to speak, so she instructed Cai Yun and the rest to serve tea.


    Shi Yumei dismissed the servants and eyed Shi Lian with a smile, ¡°Are you used to living in the Sang family? How is their family? Do they treat you well?¡±


    Shi Lian could sense that something was amiss and she forced a smile as she replied, ¡°They are all very nice and they treat me well.¡±


    ¡°That should be the case!¡± Shi Yumei sighed softly and said, ¡°It¡¯s their blessing for ady like us to marry into their family. They¡¯ll definitely treat you well! I¡¯m only afraid that our own servants are more knowledgeable and sensible than them! Since they¡¯ve seen our family¡¯s grandness, they definitely have to treat you like a deity! Oh, Third Sister. You¡¯re really lucky to marry into a small household to avoid being mistreated. Although they are poor and simple, it¡¯s actually not a bad thing! By the way, what kind of dowry did Mother arrange for you? I¡¯m sure she included many hectares of fertilend, right? The Sang family has certainly struck it big this time! Where would they ever find such a good marriage!¡±


    Shi Lian suddenly felt ufortable as if she had swallowed a fly. The Sang family treated her as a close rtive; she had gotten pretty close with her eldest sister-inw, and her nephew and niece greeted her very fondly. Deep down, she had regarded them as close rtives as well. Thus, when she heard Shi Yumei¡¯s words, they sounded ear-piercing to the ear.


    However, Shi Lian held herself back. She did not retort in the end and only returned a faint smile.


    It was not that she did not want to or did not dare, but she could not. She had married better than Shi Yumei, so it was only human nature for her to be jealous. Today was the day for her to return home and Shi Yumei was used to being arrogant, overbearing, and not knowing what peace keeping meant. Shi Yumei would definitely seize the chance to make a big fuss if she said anything inappropriate. When that happened, there would be friction between the two families.


    However, Shi Yumei refused to let her off when she did not answer, and she went on to ask with a smile, ¡°Third Sister, do I make sense? Am I wrong? (Sigh), the Sang family really knows how to scheme! You have always been honest and kind, but you¡¯ve got to draw on your haughtiness in the future. Don¡¯t lower the reputation of the Shi family and let them look down on us! I heard that your eldest sister-inw has a very sharp mouth. If you end up being put into a difficult situation because of that rural vixen, it would bring shame to our family! ¡°


    ¡°Eldest Sister.¡± When Shi Lian heard those unbing words, she said softly with a smile, ¡°A woman has always listened to her husband. I am not more knowledgeable or tactful than you, but what I do know is that I have to serve my husband and be filial to my eldest brother-inw and his wife. I dare not listen to all that you have said.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I said that you¡¯re honest!¡± Shi Yumei snorted. ¡°Like, what can they do to you? Haven¡¯t they clearly gained from the marriage? Don¡¯t you feel wronged that you have to marry someone whoe from a family of a lower status than ours? ¡°


    Shi Lian answered, ¡°A married woman should listen to her husband. My marriage was arranged by Mother. No matter what, I will ept readily.¡±


    Shi Lian¡¯s intention was to express that she did not have any undesired thoughts about her marriage, so she wanted Shi Yumei to stop! There was nothing more that had to be said.


    Unexpectedly, Shi Yumei let out a pitiful sigh and said softly, ¡°Third Sister, look at how wronged you must¡¯ve been to say that! You are really too honest! Why didn¡¯t you say so earlier if you¡¯re unhappy with the marriage? Even if you cannot bring yourself to tell Mother, you could have written to me and I would have helped you!¡±


    Before Shi Yumei finished, Sang Wan and Liu Ya came in. Shi Lian¡¯s face immediately turned pale.


    Shi Yumei was secretly satisfied. She pretended not to have seen Sang Wan and told Shi Lian, ¡°(Sigh), it¡¯s toote to change or regret what¡¯s already done! Oh, what to do? Only time can help you to ept it. Still, if you don¡¯t wish to go to the capital and suffer, why don¡¯t I speak to Mother about it? Maybe she can use the excuse of being unable to bear separating with you to make you stay a while longer!¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister!¡± Shi Lian was so anxious that tears almost burst out from her eyes. Before Shi Yumei could continue, Shi Lian hurriedly interrupted, ¡°When did I have such intentions or said such a thing! Please don¡¯t misunderstand me! I never meant that!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re sisters, not strangers. There¡¯s no need to hide anything from me!¡± Shi Yumei looked like a caring elder sister as she scolded Shi Lian, who dismissed her suggestion anxiously. Then, she pretended to nce inadvertently at the door and stopped what she was going to say before smiling, ¡°Oh my, Sister Sang Wan, you¡¯re here! (Chuckle)¡­ did you just arrive?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister, Third Sister!¡± Sang Wan came in with a smile and said, ¡°I¡¯m here to see Sister Shi Lian. I didn¡¯t expect Sister Yumei to be here too.¡±


    Shi Yumei got up and answered with a smile, ¡°In that case, I won¡¯t disturb the both of you. I¡¯ll head over to my mother¡¯s ce.¡±


    ¡°Sister Yumei, take care!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded.


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I¡­¡± Shi Lian hurriedly stood up.


    ¡°Third Sister!¡± Sang Wan held onto her hand and pinched it slightly. ¡°There is no need to exin to me. How can I not know your character!¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, you¡­ you really believe me?¡± Shi Lian felt both shocked and happy as she anxiously looked at Sang Wan with teary eyes.


    Sang Wan sighed quietly to herself. Some people just could not stand seeing others doing better than them! They see others as undeserving and would incite disharmony so as to feel better.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sang Wan nodded and said with a smile, ¡°If I don¡¯t even know this, I would have known you for nothing! If you really did look down on my family, then you wouldn¡¯t have asked me for advicest time!¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan! Thank you!¡± Shi Lian blinked her eyes and turned around. She hurriedly invited Sang Wan to sit down and instructed the servants to serve tea as she raised her handkerchief to dab her eyes.


    Her eldest sister was too crafty and vicious. She seized the loophole in her words caused by a moment of negligence to twist them and force logic onto her. Not only was she rude and arrogant, her false reasoning was, without a doubt, clear and logical. If Sang Wan had any negative opinions because of that and brought it up to her family, Shi Lian knew that her future in the Sang family was destined to be miserable. Although her husband was in love with her, she knew very well how much he respected his eldest brother, and eldest sister-inw, and cherished his family.


    Sang Wan smiled and changed the topic, ¡°Have you gotten used to the environment there? My eldest brother and sister-inw are easy to get along with, I didn¡¯t deceive you, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Shi Lian nodded with a smile. Talking about her husband¡¯s family, her eyes turned gentle and she could not help but smile as she brought them up. Of course, there was a disagreement which led her to dismiss the three servants that were given to her. The servants were servants after all. Even though they followed her to the Sang family, they still regarded themselves as the Shi family¡¯s servants and behaved arrogantly. However, Shi Lian did not mention such an upsetting matter to Sang Wan.


    When Sang Wan heard that Shi Lian was getting along well with her eldest brother and sister-inw, she waspletely relieved. Her eldest sister-inw was a nice person, but not everyone could tolerate her temper. Shi Lian had a gentle character and did not behave like a haughty youngdy, which was just aboutpatible. If her second brother had married a true youngdy from a wealthy family or a government official¡¯s family, she was afraid that the situation would not be the same.


    ¡°By the way, did Second Uncle and Aunt cause any trouble?¡± Upon thinking of Sang Pingliang and his wife, Sang Wan worriedly asked.


    Since Shi Lian was the new daughter-inw, it was not convenient for Fang Shi to tell her about theplicated family conflict. In case Second Aunt Sang decided to sow discord or speak out of line and ended up pulling Shi Lian to side with them without being aware of the situation, Fang Shi would certainly be unhappy. Therefore, Sang Wan felt it was necessary to let her know about the history between the Sang family and their extended family.


    ¡°They didn¡¯t.¡± Shi Lian shook her head. She hesitated for a moment before she spoke again, ¡°About Second Uncle and Aunt, my husband has told me about them and said that I should consult my eldest sister-inw if problems arise and look to her for a decision.¡± With that, she continued with a smile, ¡°In any case, we¡¯ll be going to the capital soon. We might not even have the chance to see them!¡±

 Chapter 245 - Second Uncle And Second Aunt Are Missing

    <strong>Chapter 245: Second Uncle And Second Aunt Are Missing</strong>


    Sang Yufei naturally would not criticize the elders in front of his newly-wed wife, but Shi Lian was not foolish. She knew how to observe and listen to advice, so It was easy for her to understand the Sang family¡¯s situation. Her eldest brother-inw was honest and considerate, and her husband now held a noble title. In her opinion, no matter what had happened in the past, the fault must have been with their Second Uncle¡¯s family.


    Sang Yufei found it hard to speak out, but what he did not know was that Shi Lian had witnessed simr situations herself¡ªCousin Gu Fangzi and her father, as well as her eldest sister and her husband, were all examples. To her, it was normal for the Sang family to have their own problems.


    Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°That¡¯s good! Big Sister-In-Law knows how to handle them, so let her do it to save you from the trouble!¡± Then, she added, ¡°From what you said earlier, it means you haven¡¯t met them yet?¡±


    That¡¯s impossible! Although the two families had severed ties, Sang Yufei¡¯s wedding was such a grand and joyous event. Sang Pingliang and his wife would have definitely joined, and the Sang family would not have been able to drive them out! Had their character changed? Or had something happened to them that caused the rtionship between the two sides to bepletely broken?


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart pounded loudly all of a sudden. She suddenly recalled the incident where Li Shi gave a divorce document to her eldest brother and sister-inw. Had her eldest Sister-inw returned it back to them and taught them a lesson¡­


    If that was really the case, she¡­


    ¡°Yes!¡± Not knowing what Sang Wan was thinking about, Shi Lian said with a smile, ¡°They weren¡¯t home when we got married. I heard from Big Sister-inw that they had left the vige more than a month ago and their whereabouts were unknown! Now, only the two cousins are left at home.¡±


    Shi Lian unconsciously recalled what Fang Shi had said. Younger Sister-inw, you are in luck. The two troublemakers weren¡¯t there when you got married! Otherwise, it would have been troublesome!


    As for the two cousins, Sang Yan was well-behaved, but Sang Rou was overzealous and always wanted to use her as a stepping stone.


    ¡°There¡¯s such a thing!¡± Sang Wan was greatly shocked and hurriedly said, ¡°Does Big Brother and Big Sister-inw know where they went? What made them leave the house?¡±


    Li Shi doted on Sang Yan. It was a surprise that she would leave her at home and follow Sang Pingliang. This seemed somewhat strange.


    Shi Lian shook her head. ¡°Big Sister-inw didn¡¯t tell me about that.¡±


    Sang Wan did not ask further. Even if she asked Shi Lian about the Sang family, Shi Lian would also not be clear. She would have to ask her Second Brother when she got the chance.


    After the two of them talked for a while longer, a servant came to inform them that it was time to eat. The two of them got up with a smile and headed to Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard.


    Since they were one family, there was no need to pay particr attention to politeness. Two tables were ced in the hall, separating both genders and nothing else.


    Besides Shi Yumei, who had a long face and ate without any care for others, the atmosphere at the dining table was good as the meal ended.


    As always, the bride must not stay overnight on her first night at her parents¡¯ home. When it was gettingte, Wang Shi did not keep her. Instead, she told her with a smile toe stay a few more days before leaving for the capital. Both Sang Yufei and Shi Lian epted.


    Wang Shi reminded Shi Lian again on the Three Obediences and Four Virtues, What Makes a Good Wife, and so on. Shi Lian acknowledged them one after another.


    Unexpectedly, Shi Yumei spoke with a smile, ¡°Third Sister, don¡¯t just agree, you have to take it to heart. Your husband is an official, so reputation and dignity are both important! You have to be virtuous and get a few pretty concubines skilled in painting and calligraphy for your husband. That way, when he brings you along to social gatherings, your reputation won¡¯t be lost when you bring them along to serve you!¡±


    Shi Yumei started chuckling, but the people around her looked at each other in dismay.


    As an elder sister of a newly-wed bride who returned to her parents¡¯ home for the first time, she didn¡¯t wish her and her husband to live together even after their hair turned white or treat each other with mutual respect. Instead, she talked about getting concubines. How could there be such an elder sister like this in the world?


    Regardless whether Shi Lian agreed or disagreed, she would be at fault, so her face flushed red.


    Shi Yumei did not let her off and carried on, ¡°Third Sister, you have to bear that in mind. Since you didn¡¯t utter a word, would you rather be a jealous unvirtuous wife?¡±


    ¡°Yumei!¡± Wang Shi couldn¡¯t hear it anymore and said angrily, ¡°What nonsense are you saying! How could you say that to your Third Sister?¡±


    Sang Yufei smiled faintly and said, ¡°Mother-inw is right. She has already taught her daughter to be virtuous, so there¡¯s no way my wife would do otherwise! I appreciate your guidance with good intentions! However, there are many schrs in this world, and not all of them like beauties and concubines. I am satisfied with one wife, so thank you for your concern, Big Sister!¡±


    Shi Yumei red at Sang Yufei. Shi Lian looked at her husband and immediately looked away afterwards. She was filled with ripples of joy. She knew that she did not misjudge him. What she had done right in her entire life was reciprocating his affection and getting married to him!


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now. Mother, we should let Second Brother and his wife go back quickly! Otherwise, it will be dark before they reach home!¡± Sang Wan suddenly came forward and said with a smile when she sensed the stiff atmosphere.


    ¡°You¡¯re right!¡± Wang Shi nodded and smiled before instructing Shi Fengju and Sang Wan to send them off properly. Before letting Sang Yufei and Shi Lian go, she reminded them again to make a trip over before leaving for the capital. Afterwhich, the two sides bid farewell.


    Taking advantage of the opportunity to send them off, Sang Wan quietly nced at Sang Yufei. She signalled him to go to a quiet corner so that they could speak a few words. Sang Wan then asked about Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Sang leaving home.


    With a slight frown, Sang Yufei answered, ¡°I also find it a little weird! I heard from Big Sister-inw that someone came to their door. Then on the next day, Second Uncle and Second Aunt, together with the new concubine, happily followed that person. Someone in the vige did ask when he saw them. Second Uncle only said that he was going to make a fortune before he was interrupted as soon as he spoke by the person who went to pick them up. No one really knows where they went.¡±


    Sang Wan thought to herself: Make a fortune? It was no wonder that Second Uncle Sang and Second Aunt Sang were persuaded. Would they be so easily deceived? They followed the stranger so happily, surely there must be a reason for them to believe so. Just who could it be?


    ¡°They have nothing to do with us, and they aren¡¯t children anymore. Since they could trust that stranger, they must have their reason to do so. What¡¯s there for us to worry about! Look at how thin you are now. Now that Brother-inw has returned safe and sound, you have to take care of yourself. Don¡¯t tire yourself too much! If you have any problems, let me know. Don¡¯t treat me like a stranger.¡± Sang Yufei said as he smiled gently at her.


    He couldn¡¯t protect her well before. Now that he had be sessful, he would do everything in his power for her without hesitation if she needed him to. In those days without their parents, the two of them had lodged under their Big Brother and sister-inw¡¯s roof, and they trulymiserate with each other. As their big brother and sister-inw were rtives, they were not obligated to raise or care for them. With that in mind, he studied his hardest, and she remained humble, so as not to bring any trouble. Speaking of closeness, the two siblings were indeed the closest.


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was moved and she nodded with a smile, ¡°Second Brother, don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t be polite if I need to trouble you! Still, I only hope that you and your wife will live in harmony!¡±


    Sang Yufei couldn¡¯t help but look at her gently as he spoke, ¡°You and your husband must also be well! When there is news about your tummy, don¡¯t forget to send a letter to tell me and let me be happy for you.¡±


    ¡°Second Brother!¡± Sang Wan blushed and smiled as she lowered eyes.


    Sang Yufei didn¡¯t mention it again when he saw her tender smile. Once the carriage was ready and Shi Lian got on the carriage, the two parties said goodbye to one another.


    After the carriage had left her eyes, Sang Wan went on to stare ahead before letting out a soft sigh. She felt at a loss.


    A low chuckle could suddenly be heard from beside her. She turned her head to look at the man who was by her side.


    ¡°We should go back too! This huge event has finally ended sessfully. You¡¯ve been working tirelessly these days, so have a good rest!¡± When Shi Fengju looked at her little face, he was heartbroken. First, she had to take care of him because of his injury, and then she had to arrange for this huge event immediately after returning. During the past few days, she had often sleptte at night. When she went to bed, she fell asleep on her pillow almost immediately and he could not bear to turn over for fear that one slight movement would wake her up.


    Sang Wan smiled at him. ¡°You are also exhausted these few days! Since your business is not urgent, let the ones in charge handle it! Mother has constantly reminded me to serve you well!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled. He went close to her ear and whispered something which caused Sang Wan tough, but she refrained from saying more. ¡°Let¡¯s go back!¡± Sang Wan said with a smile and they then went back together.


    The two of them first went to report to Wang Shi before returning to Ning Garden1.


    After entering the warm room, Shi Fengju gestured to the servants not to follow them in, and before Sang Wan could respond, he lifted her up.


    ¡°What¡­ are you doing!¡± Shocked, Sang Wan nearly shrieked.


    ¡°What else other than carrying you?¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile: ¡°You are tired, so have a good rest. I will serve you today. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything!¡± Then, he walked to the side of the bed and ced Sang Wan down. He squatted down and gently removed her shoes before he helped her to lie down. ¡°Take a rest first.¡± Shi Fengju said.


    Upon seeing him in high spirits, Sang Wan didn¡¯t want to spoil his mood. Therefore, she remained lying as was told and pulled the thin nket over her chest.


    After she closed her eyesfortably, Shi Fengju smiled and nudged her again. ¡°Hey, move inside a little and give me some space. I will lie down with you.¡±


    Sang Wan could only move in, but not withoutining, ¡°Here you told me to have a good rest, yet you¡¯re being so noisy.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just apanying you. How is that being noisy?¡± Shi Fengju smiled before pulling the nket over his body. He faced her sideways with his arms stretched around her waist and holding her in his embrace. ¡°Just go to sleep! I told them not to disturb us. If there is anything, Nanny Li will handle it.¡±


    Sang Wan answered vaguely and pushed herself deeper into his embrace. Wrapped within his familiar scent, she soon fell into a deep sleep.


    When Sang Wan woke up again, the light in the room had be dimmer.


    Shocked, she freed herself and got up as she eximed, ¡°Look at the time!¡±

 Chapter 246 - Shi Yumei Borrowing Money

    <h4>Chapter 246: Shi Yumei Borrowing Money</h4>


    Shi Fengju closed his eyes for a while then woke up soon after . He looked affectionately at her and a smile crept on the corners of his lips before he was startled by her exmation . He quickly sat up and patted her shoulder as he said with a smile, ¡°What are you shouting for? Even though it¡¯ste now, there¡¯s nothing else today!¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you wake me up? It¡¯s already time to light themps! We¡¯ve been in here for half a day . How will the servants think of us!¡± Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but grumble and re at him .


    All along, Shi Fengju always woke up earlier than her . With a smile, he said, ¡°All the servants here belong to us . Who will dare to gossip? You are always too careful!¡±


    While they spoke, they got off the bed and wore their shoes .


    Before they could wear their clothes and tidy up, Liu Ya¡¯s prating voice was hearding from outside . ¡°Eldest Missy, you¡¯re here!¡±


    That startled Sang Wan and she almost sprained her ankle as hurriedly put on her shoes . She heard Shi Fengju¡¯s lowughter over her head and couldn¡¯t help but re at him . ¡°You can stillugh! If your eldest sister came in, I don¡¯t know what she would say in front of Mother!¡±


    ¡°Then don¡¯t get up!¡± Shi Fengjuughed .


    Don¡¯t get up? Sang Wan looked down at her wrinkled and messy clothes, as well as her loosely tied hair bun that was toote to organize now . While she was baffled, Shi Fengju had alreadyid her back on the bed and took off her shoes before saying with a low chuckle, ¡°Just lie down . I¡¯ll go out and have a look!¡±


    Shi Yumei looked at Liu Ya and said with a snort, ¡°Why? Can¡¯t Ie at this time!¡±


    ¡°I dare not . Eldest Missy, pleasee in!¡± Liu Ya said aloud .


    Shi Yumei suddenly stopped and stared at her, ¡°Why are you being so loud? I¡¯m not deaf!¡±


    ¡°The household was filled with noise and mor these days . Having to deliver the messages here and there, how can they hear me properly unless I speak loudly! Who knew that it would take time to adjust back! It¡¯s all my fault!¡± Liu Ya said with a smile .


    Upon hearing her mention Shi Lian¡¯s lively marriage, although Shi Yumei did not attend, she could imagine the liveliness then and she became jealous, causing her face to sink . She said coldly, ¡°How shallow . To think you¡¯d be so happy just because of a little bit of liveliness!¡±


    Liu Ya didn¡¯t realize the contempt in Shi Yumei¡¯s words . She nodded honestly and said with a smile, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare topare myself to you! I am naturally shallow!¡±


    Shi Yumei had met a snag, but she couldn¡¯t do anything that was beneath her dignity . Thus, she held back her anger and said while she walked, ¡°Where¡¯s your Mistress? Does she not wee me? Why do I not see her!¡±


    Liu Ya didn¡¯t know what to say and could only smile to herself . Then, she saw Shi Fengju lift up the curtain from the warm room and called with a smile, ¡°Big Sister!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re here too!¡± Shi Yumei was taken aback and looked at the warm room . ¡°Why haven¡¯t you lit themp at this time!¡±


    ¡°Oh . ¡± Shi Fengju casually said with a smile, ¡°I just came back from my study room just now and got to know that Sang Wan is unwell, so she¡¯s resting inside! Is anything the matter?¡±


    Shi Yumei didn¡¯t say anything and only sighed without a word .


    Shi Fengju was aware that she had something to say, so he ordered the servants to serve tea and gestured with his eyes for them to take their leave before he said with a smile, ¡°Big Sister, what¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    Shi Yumei wanted to say something but hesitated . Finally, she said with a sigh, ¡°I n to go home tomorrow! You might ask why I¡¯m going back so soon? It¡¯s because of the same troubles at home . Fengju, you¡¯re so clever, so there¡¯s nothing you don¡¯t know . ¡±


    Shi Fengju indeed knew . In fact, everyone in the Shi Family knew that the only matter that could make Shi Yumei so embarrassed was nothing but her husband being grouchy!


    ¡°I¡¯ve already ordered Head Servant Jin to give your family money at the start of every month . Did he not do what I say?¡± Shi Fengju narrowed his eyes .


    ¡°No! No!¡± Shi Yumei hurriedly said, ¡°Head Servant Jin would always send someone to deliver our money at the start of every month . However, however... You know... Your Eldest Brother-inw has so many friends and often goes out to those poetry clubs to meet with his friends, so the expenditure is a little big...¡±


    Shi Fengju sighed secretly in his heart . However, he did not intend to indulge his prideful Brother-inw and help him to pay in vain as not only would he not be grateful, his appetite would grow even bigger! He didn¡¯t even attend the Shi Family¡¯s wedding, yet he sent his wife over to ask for money while he hid safely without making a sound . Clearly, he didn¡¯t take the Shi Family to heart at all, so why should anyone help such a person?


    Shi Fengju suddenly remembered what Sang Wan had told him in the past that it would be better to persuade his eldest sister to divorce, and his heart wavered . If things remained the same as how it was in the past for his sister, it would be better for her to divorce!


    ¡°Without money to be in the club, your eldest brother-inw¡¯s friends don¡¯t want to meet him anymore . When they don¡¯t call him out for gatherings, he bes angry and vents it all out at home! He talked about being overly-subjective and his mind bing rigid after disregarding the outside world . How will he make progress if he¡¯s like that? Let¡¯s not say theing exams, he won¡¯t even make it for the one after! He really worries me . He can¡¯t calm down to study . If he fails the examination again and again, what do I hope for in the future! Fengju, why don¡¯t I write you a receipt for a loan . Please help us again!¡±


    Shi Feng then responded after a while, ¡°Big Sister, don¡¯t indulge him too much! Take our new brother-inw and Third Brother as examples . They studied diligently and never attended so many gatherings or clubs . Will those who truly spend their time studying have the time to do those things? It¡¯s better that you persuade your husband to lock himself behind closed doors and study! Besides, you know his friends . Which one of them is decent? It¡¯s good that they stay away from him! Whatever you¡¯re doing for him now, I¡¯m afraid that if he passes, he might not even have you in his eyes! Big Sister, I urge you to think more thoroughly! ¡°


    Shi Fengju was just testing his elder sister¡¯s feelings . However, he could see her face slightly change as she regretted even asking .


    Sure enough, Shi Yumei replied unpleasantly, ¡°I only asked you to help . If you don¡¯t want to and feel that I¡¯m taking advantage of you, you should just say it! I won¡¯t me you . After all, I shouldn¡¯t have bothered you about this, and I¡¯m not that unreasonable! Yes, your eldest brother-inw has a strange temper, but he is also a decent person . Although there are times when he would say some unpleasant things, he has never done anything to let me down! I¡¯ve nothing to say if youpare that Sang family¡¯s schr to my husband . I¡¯m sure he was just lucky! But you shouldn¡¯t belittle your eldest brother-inw like this, right? As a woman, my husband is my support for this lifetime . His future is where all my hope lies . You want me to think more thoroughly, but what can I do! Aren¡¯t you clearly hinting at something bad!¡±


    She became angrier andshed out, ¡°You¡¯ve never said such things to me in the past . Did someone make you this? Who is so bad-hearted and wicked that they cannot bear to see me well-off and want to see my family ruined!¡±


    Shi Yumei raised her voice when sheshed out as she casted a nce into the room .


    Sang Wan sat up after a while and felt baffled .


    She couldn¡¯t hear the conversation outside clearly, but Shi Yumei¡¯s angry words were loud and clear, and she knew they were directed at her . She did not know how she had offended her without doing anything!


    ¡°Big Sister!¡± Shi Fengju secretlyughed at himself . She had guessed correctly . Although Sang Wan did not instigate anything, she had said it herself which gave him such a thought . However, Sang Wan only did so with good intentions! His eldest sister¡¯s response made him feel that his wife had been wronged .


    ¡°Big Sister, just take it as I spoke nonsense! I¡¯ll apologize to you! Don¡¯t be so oversensitive . Who would instigate anything behind your back!¡± Shi Fengju hurriedly smiled and apologized .


    Upon seeing him like this, Shi Yumei couldn¡¯t say anything more . She responded, ¡°I ran my mouth . Fengju, don¡¯t take it to heart as well!¡¯


    ¡°Big Sister, we shouldn¡¯t see ourselves as strangers! We are siblings . Why would I take it to heart!¡± Shi Fengju quickly replied with a smile .


    ¡°That¡¯s good! That¡¯s good!¡± Shi Yumei said again .


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right . Have you had your dinner?¡± Shi Fengju asked with a smile .


    Shi Yumei then remembered that he probably had not had his meal yet, so she got up and replied with a smile, ¡°I had mine at home . Then, I won¡¯t disturb you anymore . I¡¯ll take my leave first!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head and got up to see her off . ¡°Big Sister, take care!¡±


    When Shi Yumei saw that he didn¡¯t mention anything about the money, she was slightly disappointed, but she said her goodbye . If she were to ask about it again, it would be too embarrassing . She could only hold it back, and leave with a smile .


    After Shi Fengju saw her off, he returned to the warm room . At this moment, Liu Ya and Zhide had lit themp and were helping Sang Wan up .


    Upon seeing Shi Fengjue in, Sang Wan ordered the two servants to draw water for him to wash his face . Then, she asked him, ¡°Your big sister¡¯s words just now, when had I ever offended her?¡±


    Knowing that she would definitely ask about this, Shi Fengju quickly replied with a smile, ¡°You didn¡¯t! I said something wrong and caused her to have a wrong idea . It really has nothing to do with you!¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Sang Wan shot him a nce before responding . It would be strange if she believed him!


    Shi Fengju smiled bitterly and slightly shook his head . He hurriedly pulled her close to him and leaned on her shoulder before saying, ¡°Sang Wan, don¡¯t think too much . Big Sister just came back and the two of you haven¡¯t spoken much to each other . How could you have offended her!¡±


    Sang Wan replied faintly, ¡°I¡¯m not the one thinking too much . It¡¯s her . You don¡¯t have to tell me all these . I¡¯m really fine!¡±


    Soon, Liu Ya brought the water in, and Sang Wan and Shi Fengju cleaned their faces and gargled water in their mouth . Not long after, she instructed the servants to set the table and had dinner with Shi Fengju .


    When Shi Yumei pondered about what excuse to give to her husband when she returned home, she felt annoyed after a while . Sheined about her husband¡¯s failing to live up to expectations and her brother not sparing her feelings . Not able toe up with an excuse, she eventually braced herself to talk to Wang Shi and managed to get a banknote worth four hundred silvers after lying to her .


    Roughly seven dayster, it was the day Sang Yufei had to be on his way to the capital .


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 Chapter 247

    Chapter 247


    Wang Shi had given Shi Lian an additional two servants and three maidservants . After discussing with her husband, brother-inw, and sister-inw, Shi Lian decided to leave one of the servants at home to help take care of thends given to her as dowry while she brought the other five to the capital .


    Besides Cai Yun, the three maidservants were all active and eager, and had long regarded themselves as part of the family . Upon seeing Sang Yufei who was handsome and hade in third for Hanlin Academy¡¯s examination, they adored him greatly and considered themselves as ¡®knowledgeable¡¯ for not being born in a lowly family . They were also confident that although Sang Yufei was now highly regarded, he came from the countryside where beauty standards werecking . As such, they intentionally stroked their hair coquettishly in front of him and expressed every sort of flirtatiousness . Shi Lian only watched them coldly, but Cai Yan clenched her teeth and scolded them countlessly . Sang Yufei sneered secretly . After all, he wasn¡¯t Ren Zhixian, and was not charmed by some maidservants . On the contrary, he hated seeing their behavior more than Shi Lian .


    The two of them had already secretly discussed that on their way to the capital, they would sell those three people to avoid trouble when they arrived there .


    On the day when it was time to leave, Sang Yufei and Shi Lian both paid their respects to Sang Hong and his wife . After thinking that they would only meet again in another two or three years, tears welled up in Sang Hong¡¯s eyes and he had mixed feelings . He was happy, proud, and sad to part with them .


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget to write us a letter when you settle down, so that we don¡¯t have to worry about the expenses there . If you are short on money, write a letter back to tell us . Although we aren¡¯t very wealthy, thanks to you, our situation has be better, so we can still be of help,¡± Sang Hong patted his second brother¡¯s shoulder and said . Sang Yufei quickly agreed .


    Fang Shi was pleased that Shi Lian was gentle, well-mannered, and sensible . Although she was very reluctant to part after getting along with her for a few days, she held her hands and said with a smile, ¡°We will help to look after thends and stores . The dowries that you didn¡¯t bring along, I¡¯ll tidy and lock them upter . I heard that the expenditure in the capital is high and the people there are influential, but the two of you shouldn¡¯t get by being pressed for money . I did some calctions yesterday . Thends and shops will yield 700 to 800 silvers a year . I think it¡¯ll be more than enough for the two of you to live well in the capital!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Shi Lian felt a sense of warmth in her heart . Although she wasn¡¯t the pampered daughter in her family and didn¡¯t care about money, Fang Shi was willing to give all the profits in one year to her . This kind intention was invaluable .


    ¡°Big Sister-inw, you and Big Brother, together with Xiao Quan and Xiao Nuan, have to live better too . This way, we¡¯ll not have to worry . We will be bringing quite arge sum with us to the capital, and my husband has an official¡¯s sry, so we won¡¯t be hard pressed for money . Don¡¯t worry,¡± Shi Lian said with a smile .


    Sang Hong replied with a sigh, ¡°But most of the money came from your dowry . It¡¯s better not to use them! You should keep them instead . ¡±


    Shi Lian said with a smile, ¡°Big Brother, you¡¯re regarding my husband and I as outsiders by saying that . When my husband gets promoted in the future, he can return them with his increased sry!¡±


    This brought smiles to everyone¡¯s faces .


    ¡°Big Brother, don¡¯t worry . I know what to do . ¡± Sang Yufei said with a smile . He was not inflexible . If he had to spend the money and there was no other way, it was understandable to use his wife¡¯s dowry . Just as she had said, he would return it to her in the future . Since they were husband and wife, they ought to go through thick and thin together .


    Upon seeing that it was gettingte, Sang Hong was afraid to dy their journey, so he urged them to set off . Sang Yufei and Shi Lian paid their respects again before they went up the carriage .


    When they arrived in Qingzhou City, they went to the Shi household as promised . After staying there for three days, Sang Yufei had a knowledgeable discussion with Shi Fenghua before bing a guest at Magistrate Hong¡¯s ce . After which, they took a boat to the capital under Shi Fengju¡¯s arrangement .


    After Magistrate Hong met Sang Yufei, he praised his talents and learned that he was backed by the huge financial ability of the Shi Family . He assured Sang Yufei that there was nothing to worry about when he arrived at the capital, and after a year or two in Hanlin Academy, he would have no problem entering the Ministry of Manpower or Ministry of Finance . He couldn¡¯t help but secretly make up his mind to take good care of this man so that the Shi Family would owe him a small favor in the future . Therefore, when Magistrate Hong inadvertently heard his ipetent son mention to Sang Yufei that his wife was a concubine that he didn¡¯t want, it infuriated him . Ignoring his wife¡¯s dissuasion, Magistrate Hong firmly beat his son with a hard nk .


    Not long after Sang Yufei and his wife had left the Shi household, an uninvited guest came over .


    This man wore a brand new round-neck robe, made with royal blue silk, and a pair of ck boots . He also wore a jade hairpin to tie his hair . From behind, he looked like a wealthy young man with an elegant figure . However, his front was greatly disappointing . This man was almost fifty years old . He had a pair of beady eyes, high cheekbones, yellow skin with wrinkles, t lips, and two wisps of moustache . There was also a cautious smile on his face . He clearly did not have any status or confidence .


    This man was Sang Pingliang .


    ¡°Is your Miss Gu around?¡± Sang Pingliang asked the gatekeeper with a smile .


    For such an old person to ask about Miss Gu the moment he arrived, the gatekeeper couldn¡¯t help but look at him from head to toe before asking while remaining vignt, ¡°Who are you? Why are you looking for her?¡±


    Why was he looking for her? Of course it was to ask her for help!


    Sang Pingliang hurriedly said, ¡°I am Sang Pingliang . Can I trouble you to tell her that I¡¯ve something urgent for her!¡¯ He then took out a piece of fragmented silver and shoved it into the gatekeeper¡¯s hands as he requested .


    Seeing that the money toplete such a simple task was not small, he thought to himself first and pouted soon after, ¡°Wait there and don¡¯t block the gate . I¡¯ll help you to ask!¡±


    Before Sang Pingliang could thank him, the gatekeeper suddenly eyed him from head to toe again, ¡°Your surname is Sang? Are you one of our Young Mistress¡¯ rtives?¡±


    Apart from Sang Wan¡¯s family, the Shi Family didn¡¯t seem to have other rtives or friends with the surname Sang . What differentiated a gatekeeper from other servants was the need to understand the rtionships the Shi family had with other families .


    ¡°Ah? No, no, no!¡± Sang Pingliang was startled and hurriedly shook his hand to deny . There was no way he would have dared to admit it . If Sang Wan knew about what he had done, she would surely ce righteousness before her family . That Miss Gu, who was full of smiles and amiable, was much easier to talk to! He could only shamelessly ask the kind-hearted girl . As for Sang Wan, it was best for her not to know!


    ¡°You could¡¯ve just said no . Why are you so agitated?¡± The gatekeeper stared at him angrily before going to the second gate to find someone to deliver the message .


    As for why Sang Pingliang suddenly appeared again, it all happened two months ago .


    At that time, Shi Fengju was still recuperating in Handan while Sang Wan had rushed over there to take care of him . Through Wang Shi, Gu Fangzi managed to get involved in the Shi Family¡¯s sea freight business and had the mind to get Sang Pingliang and Li Shi involved .


    Ever since she had met Li Shi by chance, she was clear on what sort of person Li Shi was . As such, she had a vague idea in her mind . Afterwards, she sent someone to Yangliu Town¡¯s Sihe Vige to investigate . From there, she learned of the dispute between Sang Pingliang¡¯s family and Sang Hong¡¯s family . Gu Fangzi almostughed out loud .


    With such a person readily avable before her eyes, she would even look down on herself if she did not make good use of him .


    Therefore, a horse carriage entered Sihe Vige one afternoon and someone knocked on Sang Pingliang¡¯s door .


    The person who arrived was named Hu San . He cupped his hands and said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re must be Old Master Sang Pingliang, right? I am sent by Miss Gu from Qingzhou¡¯s Shi Household . Is your wife at home?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re looking for my wife?¡± Sang Pingliang saw that Hu San was no older than thirty years old . For an old cabbage like his wife, he did not have any doubts when this man came to look for his wife . However, he did find it strange .


    ¡°Miss Gu told me to look for your wife . She felt like she was old friends with her even though their first meeting was short . Your wife will surely know who Miss Gu is!¡± Hu San said with a natural smile .


    Although Sang Pingliang found it somewhat strange, he still allowed Hu San in before telling Sang Rou to call Li Shi back .


    When Li Shi heard Hu San mention Gu Fangzi and the meeting they had previously, she didn¡¯t suspect a thing especially after he took out a pair of golden hairpins as a gift . She was both delighted and pleased, so she praised Gu Fangzi endlessly .


    Hu San did not expect this woman to go on and on . As he was not good at interrupting, he could only smile and give a few words of praise .


    At the very least, Sang Pingliang was not muddle-headed and knew that Hu San wasn¡¯t here just to look for his wife, give a small gift, or say a few words aftering all the way here . He coughed and interrupted Li Shi before asking with a smile, ¡°Brother Hu San, is there anything else?¡±


    This was exactly what Hu San came for, so he hurriedly said with a nod, ¡°There is! Let me exin . Our Shi Family¡¯s sea freight business is short of a watchman to watch over the warehouse . The job is very simple . The watchman only has to remember to close the door for entry and exit and patrol at night so that nobody steals the things in the warehouse . However, this person has to be someone dependable . This way, we won¡¯t have to worry, isn¡¯t it so? Miss Gu feels your wife and her are like old friends and knows that your situation isn¡¯t very good . This job is easy and will be a good opportunity for your family to earn more money . And since you¡¯re Young Mistress¡¯ family, the two of you are naturally dependable . If this job is handled by you, Miss Gu will have nothing to worry about!¡±


    ¡°No problem, no problem!¡± Upon hearing that he was going to work for the Shi Family, Sang Pingliang was so happy . How could he not agree? Even if the job didn¡¯t sound simple, since he was Sang Wan¡¯s uncle, who would dare to disrespect him when he had a role to y in the Shi Family¡¯s business? If he made a lot of friends, developed his contacts, and his luck was good, he would have a bright future ahead! Wouldn¡¯t that be better than staying in this ditch?


    ¡°Miss Gu is really kind-hearted!¡± Sang Pingliang couldn¡¯t help but praise Gu Fangzi . He hurriedly asked, ¡°May I know when we will be going?¡±


    Hu San quietly looked down on them: These are the Young Mistress¡¯ uncle and aunt? From the looks of it, Young Mistress must be no different! No wonder the Young Master wasn¡¯t willing to marry her then! Marrying a woman from such a family was simply a disgrace!

 Chapter 248

    Chapter 248


    ¡°The sooner, the better!¡± Hu San quickly said with a smile, ¡°Why don¡¯t I stay in an inn in town for a night to give you time to handle the things you need to do at home? Then you cane find me at the inn tomorrow and we¡¯ll leave for Qingzhou together . Or, it would be even better if we could leave now!¡±


    Gu Fangzi had instructed him to get it done as soon as possible without letting Sang Hong¡¯s family know . Although Hu San didn¡¯t understand why, leaving with Sang Pingliang and reporting back sooner would not be wrong .


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave now, let¡¯s leave now! No problem, no problem!¡± Sang Pingliang was also afraid that undue dy might bring about trouble, so he wished he could hurry to meet with Gu Fangzi right away . If he were a stepte and someone took his cushy job, he would certainly regret it!


    ¡°Okay! Then, we¡¯ll set off immediately once you¡¯ve packed up!¡± Hu San said with a smile .


    Sang Pingliang quickly agreed . Just when he got up, he suddenly thought of something and gently patted his head before asking with a smile, ¡°Little Brother Hu San, can I ask... um... how much is the sry?¡±


    Li Shi had been smiling at the side . It was because her husband received the job because of her, and their family ie would definitely increase . If she told others that they were put in charge of stores by the Shi Family in Qingzhou, it would certainly sound impressive . And since her husband was leaving, wouldn¡¯t she be able to torment that vixen? She had to vent all of her resentment!


    Upon hearing Sang Pingliang ask about the sry, Li Shi quickly perked her ears up to listen .


    Hu San spread his hands and said with an embarrassed smile, ¡°I¡¯m not very sure about this . You¡¯re our Young Mistress¡¯ uncle and chosen for the job by Miss Gu, your sry won¡¯t be low! Besides, this can be discussed! Miss Gu will surely allow for it . ¡±


    Li Shi quickly smiled and asked, ¡°Then, do you know how much was the sry of the previous person managing the warehouse?¡±


    This was well-asked . Sang Pingliang could not help but praise his wife with a nce .


    After thinking, Hu San replied with a smile, ¡°It should be two or three silvers . There are other perks as well . He received bonuses on festivities and three free meals a day . For Second Old Master Sang, it should be more than that . ¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a lot!¡± Sang Pingliang and Li Shi were so excited that they felt dizzy . They did not need to fork out money for meals and lodging, which was akin to solely earning money every month . Also, there were bonuses during festivities! Where would they find a job as good as this?


    ¡°Brother Hu San, hold on . I¡¯ll pack up and be right back!¡± Sang Pingliang dly said .


    Li Shi sat in the hall with Hu San while the new concubine went into the room with Sang Pingliang to help him pack .


    ¡°Hurry up! Just pick any two nicer sets of clothes and wrap them up!¡± Sang Pingliang rubbed his hands in delight and said . Then, he added, ¡°Wait, wait! Don¡¯t pack the clothes that look too good . Just pick two ordinary-looking sets instead!¡±


    The Shi Family had money . Miss Gu also had good intentions, so she was definitely not a stingy person . If she were to see him not well-dressed, surely she would have new ones made for him, would she not? So why should he bring his new clothes over? What a waste that would be!


    ¡°Yes, my lord!¡± The new concubine lowered her head and folded his clothes before she spread arge cloth on the bed to bundle them together .


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Why do you look a little unhappy?¡± Sang Pingliang pulled her hand and asked gleefully .


    ¡°My lord!¡± The new concubine looked at him with eyes full of affection and pity before saying, ¡°Please bring me along! How can you not have someone to serve by your side? Furthermore, your wife hates me very much . If you leave me here, you might not see me again when you return! Without your protection, she will not spare me! My lord, I don¡¯t wish to leave you!¡±


    The new concubine turned her body and covered her face as she started crying .


    Upon finding that reasonable, Sang Pingliang hurriedly consoled her and said after much hesitation, ¡°But I don¡¯t know if Miss Gu will object if I bring you along!¡±


    When the new concubine saw that he was persuaded, she became spirited and quickly responded, ¡°There¡¯s no problem . You can simply rent a house outside, can¡¯t you? Besides, who are you? Can Miss Gu not respect your request?¡±


    Sang Pingliang was fond of hearing such words . However, the thought of having to fork out money to rent a house pained him . He said, ¡°I wonder if the rent in Qingzhou is expensive...¡±


    The new concubine spat in contempt to herself but hurriedly said with a smile, ¡°The sea freight warehouse is usually constructed at the pier near the waters, and not in the flourishing regions of Qingzhou . How expensive can it be? I¡¯m sure Miss Gu is big-hearted . If you could put in some nice words, she might even arrange an avable house for you! My lord, if I¡¯m not by your side, won¡¯t you feel bored? Who will wash your clothes for you? And who will massage your back when you¡¯re tired?¡±


    Upon seeing his concubine charming him and showering him with suggestions, how could he bother with anything else? Unconsciously, he said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re right! Only you will care about me! Alright, it¡¯s settled then . You will pack up and go to Qingzhou with me!¡±


    ¡°My lord!¡± The new concubine was overjoyed when he agreed . After she had swiftly packed his things, she returned to her room to pack as well .


    When it was time to leave, Li Shi saw the new concubine carrying two bundles and blindly following Sang Pingliang .


    Li Shi suspiciously looked back and forth at the two of them . Her expression sank and she said, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you giving him the bundles? Can you afford to dy him?¡±


    The new concubine did not utter a word and looked at Sang Pingliang with a pair of clear and pitiful eyes


    Sang Pingliang coughed and said calmly, ¡°Yan Zhi will being along with me to Qingzhou . You¡¯ll stay at home to look after the ce!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Li Shi¡¯s eyes widened so much that they almost dropped out .


    ¡°What do you mean ¡®what¡¯?¡± Upon seeing her lose her self-control and question him in a sharp voice, Sang Pingliang felt disgusted . Even more firm in his decision to take Yan Zhi along with him, he frowned and rebuked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear me clearly? If you didn¡¯t, then I¡¯ll say it clearly once again . I¡¯m bringing Yan Zhi along with me!¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t!¡± Li Shi yelled angrily and disapproved without hesitation .


    ¡°It¡¯s not up to you to decide!¡± Sang Pingliang was furious .


    ¡°You just can¡¯t!¡± Li Shi grabbed Yan Zhi¡¯s head with utmost strength and said hatefully, ¡°You vixen! Did you seduce him again? If you think you can live afortable life in Qingzhou, that¡¯d be over my dead body! Sang Pingliang, let me tell you . Miss Gu and I clicked well on our first meeting . Did you think I won¡¯t dare to have her cancel the job offer?¡±


    ¡°Ridiculous! Don¡¯t you dare!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think that I won¡¯t!¡±


    The heated argument that almost turned into a fight made Hu San frown in disapproval .


    The one who caused this disaster quickly lowered her head and stood to the side ignorantly . On the other hand, this simply solidified Hu San¡¯s impression that this family was not anything good .


    ¡°(Cough) . Second Old Master Sang and Second Old Mistress Sang, please calm yourselves down! There¡¯s no need to argue!¡± While they were quarreling with all their might, Hu San only wanted toplete his task as soon as possible . He simply was not in the mood to watch the drama, so he hurriedly stepped forward to pull Sang Pingliang away and said with a smile .


    ¡°Brother Hu San, we¡¯ve let you see us make a fool of ourselves! Please be seated and wait a while . It¡¯ll be over soon!¡± Sang Pingliang controlled his anger and pacified with a smile . He then turned around to look at Li Shi and growled in a low voice, ¡°Stupid woman! Come with me!¡±


    Sang Pingliang had already regarded Hu San as a servant . Therefore, how could he, a master, quarrel in front of a servant? Wasn¡¯t that embarrassing? If he had to quarrel, it had to be in private .


    However, Li Shi was unwilling! She had regarded Hu San as Gu Fangzi¡¯s spokesperson, so she scolded in her heart: How dare you treat me like this in front of someone sent by Miss Gu! I¡¯ll let him see your true colors . Then, he can go back and tell her before letting her judge! We¡¯ll see if she will still take care of you!


    ¡°What right do you have to make me follow you? What is it that you cannot say in front of everyone? Let me tell you that today, I won¡¯t listen to you! Sang Pingliang, you¡¯re a scoundrel who spoils your mistress and neglects your wife . For someone with a character like you, do you think you can excel? In your dreams!¡± Li Shi said fiercely with both hands on her waist .


    ¡°Are you looking for a fight!¡± How could Sang Pingliang take that?


    ¡°You want to hit me? Just for the sake of this vixen, you want to hit me? Bring it on! Do it! Hit me then!¡± Li Shi shouted and made a scene as she went up to him .


    She usually would not dare to treat Sang Pingliang in such a way . However, she had the backing of Miss Gu now, who felt as if she had known her for a very long time . Since Sang Pingliang was also going to ask Miss Gu to take good care of him, she had nothing to be afraid of and was soon bursting with confidence .


    ¡°You...¡±


    ¡°Second Old Master Sang and Second Old Mistress Sang!¡± Hu San said to himself: Things will turn bad if they start fighting . Fetching a person is such an easy task, so I¡¯ll be done for if I can¡¯t evenplete such a task! Upon seeing that the situation was bing worse, he quickly stepped forward to stop Sang Pingliang¡¯s raised arm and said with a smile, ¡°The two of you should talk over things since you have already been married for so many years . Please calm down!¡±


    When Li Shi saw Hu San stop Sang Pingliang, she felt even more full of herself . She was increasingly certain that Miss Gu would be on her side, so she couldn¡¯t help butin tearfully . ¡°Brother Hu San, do you know how miserable I am? Ever since this vixen married into the family, there were no peaceful days in this household anymore! This vixen has so many tricks up her sleeves to seduce my husband! He doesn¡¯t listen to me no matter how I advise him, and he¡¯ll only call me unvirtuous if I say too much . He even said that I¡¯m a jealous woman! If I really were one, how could I still let her get married into this family! Look at her . I didn¡¯t do anything to her, she looks fine . Yet, my husband treats me like this! He wants to bring this vixen to livefortably while abandoning me at home . Brother Hu San, please judge whether I have done anything wrong!¡±


    Hu San¡¯s ears almost exploded from herints . He held back the urge to shout at them and took the chance to push away Sang Pingliang in order to distance himself from her . He then said with a rigid smile, ¡°How about this? Why don¡¯t you bring along Second Old Mistress Sang as well!¡±


    In any case, Miss Gu did not say that the two of them could not go together, so he might as well bring them first . Li Shi was obviously a person who was hard to deal with . Since his words did not carry much weight, there was no way he could persuade her . And seeing that Li Shi sounded as if she was very close with Gu Fangzi, if he happened to offend her and she said anything about him to her, it would be disadvantageous for him!

 Chapter 249

    Chapter 249


    Li Shi was very pleased when she heard that . Before Sang Pingliang could speak, she quickly nodded her head . ¡°Yes, yes! This is a good idea! I haven¡¯t seen Miss Gu in a long time . I also want to see her!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Sang Pingliang, who had wanted to object, couldn¡¯t say anything, let alone Hu San . However, he snorted in displeasure and said, ¡°If you leave, no one else will be at home . Are you not worried leaving both Sang Rou and Sang Yan at home?¡±


    When Li Shi heard her husband mention her precious daughter, she hesitated . However, after seeing the docile and delicate Yan Zhi at his side, her hesitation immediately vanished into thin air!


    She couldn¡¯t bear the thought of having to be an old housewife while the two of them led a merry life in the city! She definitely wouldn¡¯t let such a thing happen . Moreover, everything was in the house . Her daughter was old enough, so was there still a need to worry about her?


    She would tell her daughterter that if anything happened, she could seek Sang Hong and his wife for help . She didn¡¯t believe that the two of them would be so cruel as to not even meet her daughter!


    ¡°They¡¯re not children anymore . Why can¡¯t they take care of themselves? If you¡¯re worried, let Yan Zhi stay behind and take care of them . How about that?¡± Li Shi said while she rolled her eyes .


    Yan Zhi was slightly swayed and didn¡¯t object to it . Anywhere without Li Shi was like heaven to her . If she didn¡¯t need to deal with the two of them, that would be even better!


    ¡°Not happening!¡± Sang Pingliang cut her off . Taking Li Shi along instead of Yan Zhi? That would not happen unless he was out of his mind! Didn¡¯t he have enough of this old woman¡¯s face? Would he still want to bring her along by his side? With Yan Zhi, he would at least be able to relieve his loneliness .


    ¡°Hurry up and pack your things . We¡¯ll set off now!¡± When Sang Pingliang saw how persistent Li Shi was, he didn¡¯t bother to say more . She could follow if she wanted, but if she dared to make a big fuss and be unreasonable towards him, he secretly had ways and time to deal with her!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry . I¡¯ll be done very quickly!¡± Upon hearing that, Li Shi quickly went to pack her things happily before she called Sang Yan and Sang Rou to talk to them .


    What she told Sang Yan was naturally to take good care of herself, not to suffer, close her door and sleep early, not to go out if there was nothing important, and so on . However, she did not speak to Sang Rou in a nice tone . She couldn¡¯t speak to her without additional threats and scoldings . All she told her was not to skive off and be swift and diligent . Otherwise, she would deal with her when he returned!


    Sang Rou lowered her head and eyes as she responded timidly, but she was bursting with joy deep down . Both of her parents wouldn¡¯t be around while Sang Yan was passive . Wouldn¡¯t she be in charge of the household then? She wouldn¡¯t have to be so tired anymore, and she could eat better and wake up at ater time . She couldn¡¯t wait for them to leave!


    ¡°Lass, if Ie back and find that anything happened to Ah Yan, I¡¯ll definitely break your legs!¡± After Li Shi said these vicious words, she picked up her bundle and dumped it on Yan Zhi without being polite . ¡°Take good care of it!¡±


    Yan Zhi didn¡¯t dare to retort, so she hurriedly took it . Although Sang Pingliang was slightly displeased and frowned, he didn¡¯t want any more dys during this crucial moment . He pretended that he hadn¡¯t seen that and said to Hu San with a smile, ¡°Brother Hu San, let¡¯s go now!¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course!¡± Hu San responded before he hurriedly led them up to the carriage and they set off .


    When Gu Fangzi saw that not only did Hu San bring Sang Pingliang over, but also Li Shi and his concubine, it was exactly what she wanted and she praised him without forgetting to reward the nervous Hu San . Thus, Hu San was delighted .


    Gu Fangzi personally received the three of them with a smile . Just like what Yan Zhi had said, before Sang Pingliang could speak, Gu Fangzi took the initiative to order the servants to arrange three rooms with amon courtyard for them to stay near the warehouse .


    Sang Pingliang and his wife were very grateful, and they went on to fawn over Gu Fangzi .


    Li Shi had happily nned to go to the Shi household from time to time to have a chat with Gu Fangzi . However, Lan Xiang privately told her that it was not nice . If others saw that, they might think that Miss Gu was specially taking care of them . If they got jealous and schemed against them, it wouldn¡¯t be worthwhile! She also added that the young master and young mistress of the household were not at home, so Gu Fangzi was the one in charge of the matters within and outside the household . How would she still have the time to meet her? In the future, she would naturally invite her over when she was free .


    As such, Li Shi dropped the subject after hearing that .


    Once Gu Fangzi settled them down, she went to see Wang Shi . She told Wang Shi that Sang Wan¡¯s maternal uncle and aunt hade to find work . Since she was also short of manpower to guard the warehouse, she nned to arrange them there and asked Wang Shi whether it was fine . At that moment, Wang Shi was only thinking about her son, whose situation was not known to her yet . Therefore, would she still care about other things? She nodded her head and didn¡¯t discuss it further . Gu Fangzi then went to arrange it .


    Afterwards, things went ording to how Gu Fangzi had imagined it . Sang Pingliang and the other two were greedy . Now that he had the convenience of guarding the warehouse, together with the instigations from time to time, how could he restrain himself?


    At first, he would be very scared when he smuggled . After tasting the sweet taste of benefits a few times, he became absolutely unrestrained . Gu Fangzi sneered and told the others to turn a blind eye to that . Once someone brought this matter up, she would keep it under control . She would also vaguely reveal that Sang Pingliang was their Young Mistress¡¯ rtive and left the rest to their imagination .


    Nobody dared to voice their objections . Since the rtionship between Miss Gu and their young mistress was strained and this was the Shi Family¡¯s business, it wouldn¡¯t bring them any benefits by being concerned . So why should they meddle? Very soon, nobody brought it up and the few supervisors were kept unaware .


    The discrepancies were only found when the supervisors conducted their routine stocktakes on this day . When the supervisors pursued the issue, the workers naturally couldn¡¯t help Sang Pingliang . At this moment, Gu Fangzi was no longer in-charge of the sea freight business . Hence, everyone made use of this chance to report Sang Pingliang freely .


    The managers were shocked and angry . However, they couldn¡¯t detain him given his status . Therefore, they could only find an excuse to make him take a break for a few days while they reported this matter to their Young Master before making a decision .


    After all, Sang Pingliang¡¯s surname was Sang .


    Once Sang Pingliang heard that he would be temporarily put on a break, his face turned pale . After he secretly inquired about the reason, how could he still remain calm? He hurried to the Shi Household immediately . He had to be faster than the managers and resolve this before they did . Otherwise, it would be embarrassing for him . Could the Shi family still keep him? He couldn¡¯t bear to part with his job, as he had gotten to live and eat well . When others heard that he was the Young Mistress¡¯ uncle, they assured him that he would have a bright future . They mentioned that he would only be at the warehouse temporarily to gain experience before he could climb thedder to sess . After all, this was a practice exercised by the Shi Family, so who would dare to neglect him? As such, many workers fawned over him!


    In all his life, he had never received such treatment . This was the most beautiful and grand moment in his life . Wouldn¡¯t it be a pity to let it end here?


    When Gu Fangzi heard from Lan Xiang that Sang Pingliang had something urgent to see her about, she knew that the truth was out after the stocktake . His actions had finallye to light!


    She had been waiting for this day, so there was no way she would help Sang Pingliang to contain this matter . Instead, she would escte it even further!


    ¡°Go and settle it with him . Say that I¡¯m no longer in-charge anymore and tell him to find Young Mistress instead!¡± Gu Fangzi slowly said, ¡°You¡¯ve to tell him about the consequences too . Just tell him that she will definitely not turn a blind eye to it, and she will probably get angry after she hears about it . And don¡¯t forget to tell him toe up with a thorough exnation . After all, he would be disgraced having to be taught a lesson by someone younger! If he isn¡¯t willing to look for her, then perhaps he could plead for leniency with Old Mistress! I¡¯ll be going to my aunt¡¯s ce now . But before I go, are you confident with what you have to do?¡±


    ¡°I am! Missy, you don¡¯t have to worry!¡± If she could not do such a simple task, she would have been Gu Fangzi¡¯s servant for nothing all these years . Miss Gu had schemed against Sang Pingliang and his wife with much difficulty . How could she let him find Young Mistress and cry for help? She naturally had to draw him to Old Mistress!


    Lan Xiang bowed and went to get it done . Gu Fangzi sneered and mumbled with a sigh, ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯ll see how you¡¯re going to exin this to Aunt Wang!¡±


    Sang Pingliang was like a cat on a hot tin roof . When he finally saw someonee to invite him in, his anxious heart calmed down a little before returning to being anxious again .


    Upon seeing that Lan Xiang was the one meeting him, although he was somewhat disappointed, he still bucked up and went forward with a smile before saying, ¡°Miss Lan Xiang, where is Miss Gu? I have something urgent to find her for!¡±


    Lan Xiang responded, ¡°You can tell me instead and I¡¯ll pass it on to my Missyter on! She is serving the Old Mistress right now, so how could she abruptly leave? Why don¡¯t youe again tomorrow instead?¡±


    How could Sang Pingliang still wait until the next day? His face flushed with anger and he was embarrassed, but he gritted his teeth and told her everything . Of course, he simplified the course of events . He only said that he had been muddled and deserved to die, and shouldn¡¯t have been obsessed with money and given in to instigation by others which led to the huge mistake . He needed Gu Fangzi¡¯s help, or he would have no other way out!


    Lan Xiang was startled by his words . After a long while, she returned to her senses and said quickly, ¡°How could you be so muddled as to do such a thing! Miss Gu kindly helped you get the job, but you caused such trouble instead! I¡¯m afraid even she would have to apologize humbly . How can she even help you!¡±


    ¡°Miss Lan Xiang, you have to put in a good word for me in front of Miss Gu! I really know that I was wrong . It won¡¯t happen again in the future! I swear that I¡¯ll definitely be earnest in the future and won¡¯t disgrace Miss Gu!¡± After being criticized by Lan Xiang, Sang Pingliang couldn¡¯t help but feel anxious and guilty .


    Lan Xiang muttered unwillingly and said with a sigh, ¡°Second Old Master Sang, she is no longer in charge now . She can¡¯t help you even if she wants to! Why don¡¯t I check if Young Mistress is free and you can ask her for help instead?¡±


    ¡°No, no! You can¡¯t let her know!¡± Before Lan Xiang could think of how to shift from her Young Mistress to Old Mistress, Sang Pingliang almost jumped from what she said . He shook both of his hands and hurriedly objected, ¡°You can¡¯t tell her . You can¡¯t tell her about this!¡±

 Chapter 250

    Chapter 250


    Sang Wan treated the two of them amiably on the surface, but she was no different from the heartless Sang Hong, Sang Yufei, and Fang Shi! If she got to know about this, she would be the first one to not spare him . As if she would even help him to take care of it!


    Upon hearing that, Lan Xiang felt happy but she remained calm and collected as she asked doubtfully, ¡°Why not? Young Mistress is your niece and her words weigh so much morepared to my Missy!¡±


    The more Sang Pingliang did not dare to tell Sang Wan about it, the more Lan Xiang wanted him to seek her help .


    Sang Pingliang darted his eyes around anxiously as he pleaded, ¡°Miss Lan Xiang, I really can¡¯t tell her! You know my niece . If she knows about this, she definitely won¡¯t empathize with my situation and forgive me for being muddled for a moment . She certainly won¡¯t let me off! Miss, you mustn¡¯t tell her!¡±


    When Lan Xiang saw him panicked and terrified, she found it amusing but couldn¡¯t help sympathizing with him . She said with a sigh, ¡°You¡¯re right! Young Mistress is very strict . She will not tolerate any small mistakes . If she knew about this, she would definitely hand you over to court without a word!¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Sang Pingliang rubbed his hand in panic .


    Lan Xiang said with a sigh, ¡°Would anyone not make mistakes? I can tell that you¡¯re sincerely regretful . Why don¡¯t I guide you on the path to take? If it works, it¡¯s your luck . If it doesn¡¯t, you mustn¡¯t me me! But regardless of whether it works or not, you can¡¯t tell anyone that I gave you this idea!¡±


    It was as if he had finally seen hope, so why would he refuse? He hurriedly nodded his head in agreement and asked Lan Xiang for guidance .


    Lan Xiang said with a smile, ¡°As a servant, what I¡¯m most afraid of is getting into trouble . I¡¯ll only believe you if you swear . ¡±


    If Sang Pingliang could get through this ordeal, he would be willing to kowtow on the floor, let alone swearing . He immediately raised his hand to swear to Heaven, just as Lan Xiang had told him, before he said impatiently, ¡°Miss Lan Xiang, please tell me quickly! What idea do you have?¡±


    Lan Xiang answered with a smile, ¡°Our Old Mistress often consumes vegetarian food and prays to Buddha . She is the most benevolent and empathetic! Why don¡¯t I take you to her? Since Miss Gu is with Old Mistress now, I¡¯ll signal her . I¡¯m sure she will definitely put in a few good words for you!¡±


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s eyes lit up . That sounded good . There was still Old Mistress Shi! He was the same generation as her and they were rtives . Since she was a religious olddy who ate vegetarian food, she would definitely be easier to talk to! As long as she let this matter go, wouldn¡¯t Shi Fengju and Sang Wan, who were younger than her, have to listen to her?


    Sang Pingliang even had a shameless thought . As a woman of the household, it would be embarrassing for her to not agree with a grown man, right?


    ¡°Great! Great! I would never have thought of this! Miss Lan Xiang, I¡¯ll have to trouble you to take me to your Old Mistress!¡± Sang Pingliang could not wait .


    Lan Xiang secretly sneered and replied, ¡°Alright . Let¡¯s go there now! Once you meet Old Mistress, you have to seize the chance quickly to be humble and plead for leniency! Old Mistress has a soft heart . As long as she agrees, she definitely won¡¯t go back on her words! I¡¯ll have to tell you that if she knew the one who hired you for the job was my missy, I¡¯m afraid it would only inconvenience her pleading for you...¡±


    Sang Pingliang stared at Lan Xiang nkly, but he understood quickly and replied, ¡°How can I trouble Miss Gu when she had good intentions for me? I was the one who asked her for the job!¡±


    Lan Xiang smiled in satisfaction and asked, ¡°By right, Young Mistress is closer to you . Why didn¡¯t you ask her for the job instead?¡±


    Sang Pingliang answered, ¡°At that time, Sang Wan wasn¡¯t at home and Miss Gu was the one taking care of the sea freight!¡±


    Right on track!


    ¡°Good, good! Just like that!¡± Lan Xiang said with a smile . ¡°Miss Gu has always respected the Young Mistress . Since you are her maternal uncle, there is no reason why Miss Gu shouldn¡¯t help you!¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu had good intentions . I¡¯m so ashamed of myself for failing to live up to it!¡± Sang Pingliang quickly smiled .


    Why did that statement sound so awkward? Lan Xiang frowned slightly but quickly said with low snort, ¡°Let¡¯s go . I¡¯ll bring you to see the Old Mistress!¡± After which, she led the way quietly .


    Gu Fangzi was talking to Wang Shi when she suddenly heard that Second Old Master Sang was looking for Wang Shi . Wang Shi was startled and she asked, ¡°Second Old Master Sang?¡±


    Gu Fangzi coughed and answered with a smile, ¡°Aunt Wang, did you forget! I¡¯ve told you before that I arranged a job for him . He should be in Qingzhou now! It¡¯s strange for him to suddenlye and look for you!¡±


    ¡°Look at my poor memory!¡± Wang Shi suddenly remembered and smiled . After thinking for a moment, she said, ¡°Invite him in! I suppose he must have some matters . ¡±


    In the end, he was a rtive of her daughter-inw . She did not think otherwise and asked Gu Fangzi, Nanny Jiang, and the others to look at whether she was well-dressed .


    Unexpectedly, as soon as Sang Pingliang came in, he kneeled before her and lowered his head as he wailed . ¡°Old Mistress Shi, I was wrong . Please show mercy and spare me this once! I will never dare to do it again! I beg you, Old Mistress Shi!¡±


    Other than Gu Fangzi and her servant, everyone in the house, including Wang Shi, was dumbstruck . Everyone was dead silent as they listened to Sang Pingliang pleading .


    Gu Fangzi pretended to be shocked and lifted up her handkerchief to cover her mouth . In fact, she was afraid that she couldn¡¯t help butugh, and she exchanged nces with Lan Xiang . She was simply overjoyed with the situation!


    She did not know what Lan Xiang had said to Sang Pingliang for him to be doing this . Since her aunt had never experienced such a scenario, it would be strange if she was not taken aback!


    ¡°Old Mistress Shi, please say something! I know I was in the wrong . I really do . Please forgive me and spare me some face! I won¡¯t dare to do it again, and I promise that it won¡¯t happen again! You¡¯re a benevolent person, so you don¡¯t have to lower yourself to sympathize with me...¡± When Sang Pingliang did not get a response from Wang Shi, he was even more terrified . Besides pleading with her, he ttered her by lowering himself!


    ¡°My god! What... what is going on!¡± Wang Shi returned to her senses and eximed in shock .


    She had really been given a fright! The Sang Family¡¯s Second Old Master was the uncle of her daughter-inw, who had lost both of her parents . This was her daughter-inw¡¯s elder who was on an equal standing with her . However, once he came in, he kneeled and cried for mercy . His behavior was clearly like a servant, which caught her off-guard!


    When Gu Fangzi saw it was almost time, she coughed a few times and said loudly, ¡°Second Old Master Sang, please exin to us slowly! If you don¡¯t make it clear, how is my aunt supposed to help you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right! Exin yourself!¡¯ Wang Shi was feeling uneasy and she looked at Sang Pingliang with a frown . Apart from his bad manners, he had lowered himself to behave like a servant . His appearance was not pleasing to the eye, so Wang Shi had a very bad impression of him .


    Sang Pingliang looked up to cast a nce at Gu Fangzi and made up his mind: Miss Gu indeed cares about me . Isn¡¯t she helping me now?


    ¡°I¡¯ll say it!¡± Sang Pingliang raised his sleeve to wipe his tears and said, ¡°I... I...¡±


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Gu Fangzi scanned around and said, ¡°Aunt Wang, it¡¯s better to let the servants take their leave first!¡± If the servants gossiped outside, things would be more interesting soon! Sang Wan would definitely be embarrassed! Gu Fangzi silently sneered .


    ¡°Alright!¡± Wang Shi nodded her head and waved her hand . Other than Nanny Jiang, the rest of the servants took their leave . Then, Wang Shi said to Sang Pingliang, ¡°You should get up too!¡±


    Wang Shi felt ufortable calling the man in front of her ¡®Second Old Master Sang¡¯, so the words could note out from her mouth .


    ¡°Let me put it simply! I¡¯ve let the Shi Family and Old Mistress Shi down! I¡¯m ashamed of myself!¡± When Sang Pingliang heard Wang Shi telling him to get up, his heart was swayed: Things are turning out well! Old Mistress Shi is indeed benevolent!


    Wang Shi was not concerned that he was kneeling . But at the thought of his status, she felt it was unpleasant to her eyes to see him kneel before her . As such, she frowned slightly .


    Gu Fangzi quickly said with a smile, ¡°Second Old Master Sang, please get up! You¡¯re Young Mistress¡¯ uncle . No matter how huge the issue is, you shouldn¡¯t be kneeling!¡± She then hinted to Lan Xiang to help him up .


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Fang¡¯er . Please get up and have a seat first!¡± Wang Shi faintly said .


    ¡°Thank you, Old Mistress Shi! Thank you, Miss Gu!¡± Sang Pingliang didn¡¯t wait for Lan Xiang to help him up . And besides, Lan Xiang didn¡¯t want to help him up either . She only went to his side and pretended to raise her hand to help him .


    After Sang Pingliang got up, he thanked Wang Shi and Gu Fangzi with a bow before taking a seat with Lan Xiang¡¯s assistance .


    Sang Pingliang thought that he had good etiquette, but what he did not know was that he had lowered himself to the bottom . Since he did not have a lowly status to begin with, the more ¡®etiquette¡¯ he had, the more Wang Shi could not bear to watch . She disliked his actions before, but now, she was simply feeling disgusted .


    ¡°My aunt is benevolent, so you don¡¯t have to hide anything from her . Just speak your mind!¡±


    Gu Fangzi said with good intentions .


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡± Sang Pingliang quickly nodded his head and smiled again .


    Since he had done something wrong, he felt very ashamed . However, the words would not leave his mouth even after trying a few times, and his face turned even redder . In the end, he made the resolve to himself: If I don¡¯t say it, I would havee here in vain . Things will surely be uglier if I turn back now!


    ¡°Old Mistress Shi, it¡¯s very hard to talk about this, but everything was my fault! I shouldn¡¯t have been blinded by money and lost my conscience...¡±


    Sang Pingliang stuttered and finally admitted everything he had done . Then, he unconsciously stood up again . ¡°Old Mistress Shi, I was wrong . I really know my mistakes! Please spare me this once! If this issue is made public and I¡¯m disgraced in front of everyone, how am I to face others in the future? Furthermore, Sang Wan would also be affected! I promise that I¡¯ll nevermit the same mistake again in the future!¡±

 Chapter 251

    Chapter 251


    ¡°There¡¯s such a thing? Is what you said... true?¡± Wang Shi was both shocked and furious .


    Sang Pingliang lowered his head, unable to utter a word .


    ¡°This...this...¡± For a moment, Wang Shi didn¡¯t know what to say and her mind went nk . She had not expected Sang Pingliang to be such a person . He was the one who came to seek employment, yet instead of helping his rtives, he undermined their business and still had the nerve toe to her to plead for leniency!


    If this were made known to the public, the Shi Family would be disgraced, let alone Sang Wan .


    ¡°Old Mistress Shi, I...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Wang Shi raised her hands to stop him and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know about business, so there is no use telling me! Nanny Jiang, ask someone to call Fengju here . Tell Sang Wan toe as well!¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s expression suddenly sank .


    ¡°Old Mistress Shi, will you promise not to investigate this matter anymore?¡± Sang Pingliang quickly asked .


    So this was what he was concerned about . If Wang Shi did not agree and this matter ended up in the hands of Shi Fengju and Sang Wan, he would be done for .


    This was the first time that Wang Shi had met someone whocked basic morals . Although Gu Jin was a scoundrel, he would always think clearly . He was unlike Sang Pingliang, who could not differentiate right from wrong .


    Why did he not understand what she meant? Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but be furious and her words became slightly harsher, ¡°We¡¯ll wait until Fengju and Sang Wan arrive here first!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress Shi, you...¡±


    ¡°Second Old Master Sang!¡± Gu Fangzi said with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry . You¡¯re an elder! When Big Cousin and Sister Sang Wan arrive, this matter will be discussed again . There will definitely be a solution!¡±


    While she said that, she got up to Wang Shi¡¯s side before pulling at Wang Shi¡¯s arm . She said softly and remorsefully with her eyes looking down, ¡°Aunt Wang, it was my fault . I shouldn¡¯t have... shouldn¡¯t have...¡±


    ¡°No it isn¡¯t! You only had good intentions!¡± Wang Shi said to Gu Fangzi pleasantly, even though she felt increasingly furious .


    ¡°But, if Sister Sang Wan...¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi¡¯s expression sank . ¡°Her? She couldn¡¯t possibly me it upon you! I still have a clear mind!¡±


    Upon seeing Wang Shi get furious, Nanng Jiang couldn¡¯t care about anything else .


    It was not very nice of her mistress to say that in front of Sang Pingliang, so she said with a smile, ¡°Old Mistress, why don¡¯t you let Second Old Master Sang take a rest first! He must be exhausted!¡±


    Nanny Jiang had good intentions as she did not want Sang Pingliang to be put in a difficult situation . However, Sang Pingliang became anxious when he heard that . He quickly shook his hands and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine! I¡¯m not tired at all! Old Mistress Shi, I¡¯ll wait here!¡±


    Wang Shi, who understood Nanny Jiang¡¯s good intentions, ignored his words . She said with a nod, ¡°Take him to rest elsewhere and have someone prepare tea and serve him . Otherwise, others might think that we neglect our rtives!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress Shi, I¡¯m really...¡±


    ¡°Second Old Master Sang! Don¡¯t worry, Old Mistress is here! Follow Nanny Jiang and rest first!¡± Gu Fangzi quickly said .


    ¡°...Fine then!¡± Upon seeing Gu Fangzi raising her eyebrows to signal him, he was slightly at ease and followed Nanny Jiang .


    ¡°Just what is this! This is making me furious! How is there such an elder from Sang Wan¡¯s family!¡± As soon as Sang Pingliang went out, Wang Shi became angrier the more she thought about it . As a result, she mmed heavily on the table .


    ¡°Aunt Wang, you¡¯ve to calm down,¡± Gu Fangzi said with a smile . ¡°I¡¯m sure that every family has an improper elder like him . However, Sister Sang Wan should have told you about him earlier so that we would be aware . I shouldn¡¯t have easily agreed when he asked...¡±


    Wang Shi said with a sigh, ¡°You are right! It was no wonder that Sang Wan¡¯s elder brother and sister-inw came . I was puzzled at first . Didn¡¯t she have an uncle and aunt? Why didn¡¯t they show their faces? So it turns out that this was the reason!¡±


    Gu Fangzi quickly said, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t be saying this, but you have met Second Old Master Sang . He¡¯s such a disgrace . It¡¯s not unusual for Sister Sang Wan not to bring them to meet you . ¡±


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi loathed Sang Wan even more and said with a frown, ¡°Sang Wan has always been gentle and virtuous so I gave her the benefit of doubt! Despite her good reputation, did she think that she could hide such a thing forever? A truly honest person would have told me long ago and such a thing would not have happened! Great! Her uncle guarded the warehouse and stole from it! If such a person was insignificant, the supervisors would have already sent them to the authorities . How dare he stille here to plead for leniency! How brazen of him!¡±


    When she recalled him pleading like a servant, Wang Shi became even more disgusted .


    ¡°Aunt Wang! You shouldn¡¯t say that! After all, he¡¯s Sister Sang Wan¡¯s rtive . ¡± Gu Fangzi persuaded her at the side . After some hesitation, she said in a low voice, ¡°Sang Wan serves you with all her heart and attentively takes care of Big Cousin . Even without merits, she has clearly put in hard work . You still have to give her some face!¡±


    Wang Shi let out a long sigh and the anger deep within her pretty much dissipated . She held onto Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand and said with a sigh, ¡°Fangzi, you always think of others first! Despite how Sang Wan treats you, you still treat her sincerely . You¡¯re hard toe by! If only Sang Wan had the same thoughts as you, then the matter regarding you and Shi Fengju wouldn¡¯t have reached what it is to this day...¡± Wang Shi regretted the slip of her tongue . She should not have brought it up at this time, so she coughed and no longer uttered a word .


    Gu Fangzi forced a smile . ¡°Aunt Wang, it¡¯s okay . I can wait! Really! Some day, Big Cousin and Sister Sang Wan will surely understand my intentions!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you!¡± Wang Shi sighed slightly and looked at Gu Fangzi more pitifully . Wang Shi also had no way out of this matter . One of them was her son and the other was her niece who had always been with her since young . Both parties insisted on their grounds and the person in the most difficult position was herself in the end .


    ¡°Aunt Wang, Big Cousin and Sister Sang Wan might arrive soon . I... I think I should leave! I¡¯m afraid she might misunderstand...¡± Gu Fangzi suddenly said .


    Wang Shi objected and felt that it was unnecessary . However, Gu Fangzi¡¯s current status was very awkward . If Sang Wan had any suspicions about her, it would inevitably invite more trouble . There were advantages to avoiding Sang Wan, so she nodded her head .


    ¡°Aunt Wang, you have to talk to her properly about this . Don¡¯t be anxious, and don¡¯t get angry! I shouldn¡¯t be saying this, but it¡¯s not worth causing a strain in your rtionship over her uncle!¡± Gu Fangzi smiled and headed to the direction of Wang Shi¡¯s warm room, but she suddenly turned back and said this .


    ¡°I know!¡± Wang Shi said with a smile .


    Speaking about the two-day stocktake in the business, Shi Fengju was not present . The rules of the Shi Family was that every store had to have a stocktake done by the individual managers every month . Then in every two months, it would be conducted together with a higher-up supervisor . All the stocktakes would then be collected and reported to him . Other than the monthly, bimonthly, and random stocktakes, only the important goods would be personally ounted for by him .


    On this day, the weather was good . After breakfast, Shi Fengju apanied Sang Wan to take a stroll in the garden . The two of them went to the pond and saw many blooming lotus flowers and green-jaded lotus leaves . They couldn¡¯t help but be in a pleasant mood . They called for a boatdy to row the boat over before they got onto it to enjoy the flowers more closely .


    That was a pleasant moment for them, but Zhan Huan suddenly came to look for them . He mentioned that there was something urgent in the business that required Shi Fengju to go over . Upon hearing that, Shi Fengju could not refuse . The two of them returned to Ning Garden1 and Sang Wan helped him to get changed before seeing him off .


    Not long after Shi Fengju had left, Wang Shi asked someone to invite her over . Sang Wan had not expected the reason Shi Fengju left and why Wang Shi was calling for her to be about the same matter . She tidied herself slightly and hurried over to Wang Shi¡¯s ce .


    After entering the main hall, Sang Wan realized that the atmosphere was somewhat strange . Only Nanny Jiang was serving Wang Shi at the side; Xiu Chun and the rest of the servants were outside . Although Wang Shi looked calm, Sang Wan could clearly sense that she was restraining herself . As for Nanny Jiang, she was looking down with her hands loosely in front of her and did not nce at her when she arrived .


    Sang Wan hurriedly went forward to pay her respects and asked with a smile, ¡°Mother, may I know why you called me over?¡±


    Wang Shi took a deep breath and replied faintly with a smile, ¡°Can¡¯t I ask for you even if there¡¯s nothing? Have a seat!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean anything . It¡¯s my blessing to be able to relieve your listlessness!¡± Sang Wan smiled and sat down .


    Wang Shi was not someone who liked to beat around the bush . After thinking for a moment, she said, ¡°Do you have an uncle and aunt?¡°


    When Sang Wan heard her bring that up, her heart tightened . However, she nodded and answered with a smile, ¡°I do . ¡±


    ¡°Then they¡¯re your elders!¡± Wang Shi said with a smile, ¡°If I¡¯m right, they haven¡¯t shown their faces here, right? When are you going to invite them over to let me have a look?¡±


    ¡°Mother, why... are you suddenly asking about this?¡± Sang Wan asked with a smile .


    Wang Shi saw that Sang Wan did not answer her directly and was returning a question instead . She was clearly being disrespectful and having a guilty conscience . Wang Shi¡¯s expression changed all of a sudden and she said while feeling displeased, ¡°I¡¯m asking you, yet you¡¯re answering me with a question instead? I just thought of it today . We¡¯re all rtives, but I¡¯ve never met them . How can that be alright? People might think that we are looking down on others!¡±


    Of course, Sang Wan was not convinced that Wang Shi had suddenly thought of it . Although she didn¡¯t know what had happened, she could roughly guess that this was Gu Fangzi¡¯s doing .


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned stiff and she looked down without uttering a word .


    When Wang Shi saw that she was still being conceited and ill-behaved for being unwilling to tell the truth, she could not help but get angry . Just as she was about to re up, Sang Wan looked up and said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve mentioned it, I¡¯ll send someone to fetch my Second Uncle and Second Aunt overter . However, if they are disrespectful, I hope that Mother won¡¯t take them to heart . ¡±


    Sang Wan silently sighed . Since Wang Shi had already mentioned them, she presumed that she could no longer hide them from her . As such, she might as well tell her upfront .


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi was slightly delighted and said with a smile, ¡°Now this is funny! How could you say that about your uncle and aunt since they are your elders? Sang Wan, this is not something you should be saying! They are guests if they are here . We are fortunate if we are not the ones being disrespectful so that others don¡¯t mock us . How is it the other way instead?¡±

 Chapter 252

    Chapter 252


    Then how should she say it? Sang Wan got angry . Just like what Wang Shi had said, no matter what fault her Second Uncle had, it was not up to her to judge since he and his wife were her elders! Furthermore, it was something difficult to say in front of her mother-inw!


    Wang Shi seemed to be aware of how she felt . She knew that it was meaningless to carry on pretending, so she said with a sneer, ¡°How clever of you! You¡¯ve kept me unaware and only decided to tell me everything now that I asked you . I¡¯m sure you must¡¯ve guessed that I might know something . Sang Wan, has anybody told you how cunning you are?¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Sang Wan¡¯s expression changed greatly upon hearing that . She suddenly got up with her head lowered . ¡°Mother, I don¡¯t know what you are talking about! Please enlighten me!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know what I¡¯m talking about?¡± Wang Shi said with a sneer, ¡°You ask me to enlighten you? Even I¡¯m embarrassed to be doing that! Nanny Jiang, you tell her!¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Nanny Jiang responded . She nced at Sang Wan with a pitiful look and exined to her in full detail about what had happened just then .


    Before she finished, Sang Wan¡¯s expression had changed greatly and she was stupefied from the news .


    Her Second Uncle and Second Aunt left the vige without anyone knowing the reason . It turned out that they hade to Qingzhou and were recruited into the Shi family¡¯s business . Not only that, they even did such a thing and came to her mother-inw to plead for leniency! It was no wonder that just now, her mother-inw...


    Just now?


    Sang Wan felt so humiliated, resentful, and cold . Wang Shi had clearly seen Sang Pingliang, and yet, she pretended as if nothing had happened and sounded her out . What kind of person did Wang Shi regard her as? What was she to her?


    For a moment, Sang Wan suddenly felt downhearted .


    ¡°What do you have to say?¡± Upon seeing her sad and in a daze without uttering a word, Wang Shi asked faintly .


    Sang Wan no longer had the mood and heart to deal with it? As such, she smiled bitterly and said, ¡°I have nothing to say . Just do as you see fit!¡±


    You¡¯ve probably made up your mind already, so why ask for my opinion? Even if you aren¡¯t tired, I am!


    Wang Shi hadn¡¯t expected Sang Wan to give such a response . She choked and looked at Sang Wan before saying, ¡°Do as I see fit? Aren¡¯t you going to plead leniency for him?¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head . ¡°I am too ashamed to plead for leniency for him . Everything will be decided by Mother!¡±


    Plead for leniency? That would probably be inviting disgrace unto herself! Moreover, even if she did not plead for leniency or was not disgraced today, she had already suffered enough insults . Thus, why should she say anything more?


    This time, even Nanny Jiang could see that something was amiss with Sang Wan, so she couldn¡¯t help but give her a worried look .


    Startled, Wang Shi could not restrain her anger andughed before saying, ¡°Good, good! You¡¯re the daughter-inw of the Shi Family after all . You ce righteousness before your family and allow me to decide on this! In that case, I¡¯ll do as you say . When that happens, I hope you won¡¯t change your mind!¡±


    ¡°I have nothing more to say,¡± Sang Wan answered faintly .


    ¡°You!¡± Wang Shi seethed with anger at Sang Wan¡¯s submissive and uncooperative attitude, and Sang Pingliang¡¯s matter . At this moment, she red up and ordered angrily, ¡°Nanny Jiang! Tie Sang Pingliang up and send him to the authorities!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Jiang was shocked and anxiously said to Sang Wan, ¡°Young Mistress, hurry up and plead leniency . You¡¯ve to put in some good words in front of Old Mistress! This matter mustn¡¯t be handled like this!¡±


    Sang Wan shot a grateful look to Nanny Jiang before looking down without uttering a word .


    ¡°Nanny Jiang, what are you waiting for!¡± Wang Shi said coldly, ¡°Inform those supervisors to send a representative to report the case and let the authorities handle the rest! It is reasonable and fair for me to do so . What are you waiting for!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress, you mustn¡¯t do it!¡± Nanny Jiang kneeled and pleaded, ¡°Old Mistress, in my opinion, it¡¯s better to wait until Young Master returns and let him handle this!¡±


    ¡°Get up!¡± Wang Shi said angrily, ¡°Why are you being so kind to her? Hmph, she thinks that it¡¯s appropriate and fine anyway, so why are you still saying more!¡±


    Gu Fangzi, who was in Wang Shi¡¯s warm room, was also secretly anxious . She couldn¡¯t help but scold Nanny Jiang for being meddlesome! If this matter really got to the authorities, Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t be able to cover it up when things got outside the household, let alone inside it . It would definitely be major news in Qingzhou . Wang Shi was acting on emotions and would surely regret her actions afterwards . When that happened, she would naturally vent that anger onto Sang Wan, and hence implicate the reputation of the Shi Family! The crevice in her heart would surely be difficult to remove then!


    After that, Sang Wan would be dealing with Wang Shi while feeling under pressure . Would she still have the mood and energy to cause trouble for her?


    Sang Wan, who had not uttered a word, lifted her head and said, ¡°Mother, you¡¯re a decisive person, so I¡¯ll leave everything to you . After all, my words do not carry much weight, so I do not dare to say much!¡±


    If she had wished to deal with this appropriately, she would have discussed with her first instead of sounding her out . Since she had already done thetter, Sang Wan could tell what her intentions were! Sang Wan felt dispirited and did not have the mood to plead for leniency as she knew that even if she did, it would only invite humiliation .


    ¡°Did you hear that!¡± Upon seeing Sang Wan being indifferent, Wang Shi was even more furious . She pulled a face at Nanny Jiang and shouted sternly, ¡°Who gave you this courage? Even you are going against me!¡±


    Nanny Jiang did not dare to insist any longer . She could only reluctantly agree and give Sang Wan an embarrassed look before leaving with her head lowered .


    For a moment, only Wang Shi and Sang Wan were left in the house . One was feeling furious while the other was indifferent . The two of them did not utter a word and the atmosphere was somewhat strained .


    Gu Fangzi, who was in the warm room, smiled slightly and was relieved .


    Although Nanny Jiang had left, would she dare to send Sang Pingliang to the authorities? She knew better than anyone about her master¡¯s personality . She would not care now when she was angry, but she would definitely regret her actionster . She had been serving Wang Shi for decades, so she naturally knew what was beneficial for her master! As such, even though she had left, she only stood at the gate and looked out in hopes for Shi Fengju to hurry over . She did not do anything to Sang Pingliang at all .


    Besides, Shi Fengju was also stunned when he heard what the supervisors told him . Sang Pingliang¡¯s job was only to guard the warehouse . However, Shi Fengju would not go there usually and there was nothing to be reported about on such an insignificant job . As such, he had been unaware that Sang Pingliang was working in his family¡¯s business .


    After knowing that Sang Pingliang came during the period when Gu Fangzi was in charge of the sea freight, Shi Fengju could somewhat picture what had happened and did not ask further . He would be asking in vain even if he did so . Gu Fangzi was naturally thorough in what she had done, so she would have a set of exnations for herself . Now that things had already urred, he was not interested in them at all .


    After Shi Fengju listened to the supervisors calmly, he ordered Zhan Huan to personally bring Sang Pingliang over . Even though he was of no use to him, he could not punish him either . He would just let him leave and settle this matter behind closed doors! As for the deficits, he could not simply make Sang Pingliang return it all . Following his practice, he could only bite the loss and make up for it with his own money .


    Who knew that after a while, Zhan Huan hurriedly ran over and said, ¡°Young Master, Second Old Master Sang has left! I¡¯ve asked Second Old Mistress Sang and she said that he went to our household to plead leniency...¡±


    Shi Fengju raised an eyebrow and immediately stood up to return to the household .


    Shi Fengju had in mind whether to find Sang Wan or Gu Fangzi first . In the end, he decided to head to Ning Garden1 as soon as he got back . Who knew that he would receive news from Zhide saying that the Young Mistress had been summoned by Old Mistress . Shi Fengju silently understood that the situation was terrible so he hurried over to Wang Shi¡¯s courtyard and happened to see Nanny Jiang, who was anxiously at the gate .


    ¡°Young Master, you¡¯re finally here!¡± Nanny Jiang was relieved when she saw him . She stepped forward and said, ¡°You¡¯ve to hurry and persuade Old Mistress! She is furious! For some reason, Young Mistress refused to say or do anything!¡±


    ¡°Nanny Jiang, don¡¯t worry . Tell me what happened . ¡± At this time, Shi Fengju was not anxious . He stopped in his tracks and asked Nanny Jiang .


    Nanny Jiang couldn¡¯t care less whether she would arouse suspicions . She immediately told him everything that happened between Wang Shi and Sang Wan just then and said with a sigh, ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with Young Mistress . If she¡¯s willing to give in and plead for leniency, Old Mistress wouldn¡¯t have be so angry! Young Master, you have to persuade Old Mistresster . If she has any prejudice towards Sang Wan because of this, the household will not have any peaceful days in the future!¡±


    Shi Fengju nodded his head . ¡°Nanny Jiang, don¡¯t worry . I know what to do . When this happened, Sang Wan was still with me in Handan . She doesn¡¯t know a thing so my mother shouldn¡¯t have sounded her out like that! My mother clearly doesn¡¯t trust her . If Sang Wan gave in and pleaded for leniency, how should she even say it?¡±


    Nanny Jiang froze and was somewhat stunned .


    Shi Fengju smiled faintly and went in .


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s voice broke through the strange silence in the hall . Wang Shi and Sang Wan coincidentally felt more relieved at the same time .


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi red at him angrily .


    ¡°Sang Wan . ¡± Shi Fengju lightly tugged at her . ¡°Come, we¡¯ll talk after you have a seat . ¡±


    Wang Shi¡¯s expression darkened immediately and her eyes red at Sang Wan without uttering a word .


    Sang Wan pushed away Shi Fengju¡¯s hand lightly and stood still .


    Upon seeing that, Wang Shi¡¯s anger unconsciously dissipated slightly and she said with a sneer, ¡°Fengju, have a seat! She¡¯s in a bad temper now, so how would she take the Shi Family seriously!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s body stiffened slightly and she clenched her teeth without saying a word .


    ¡°Mother . ¡± Shi Fengju frowned slightly . ¡°I¡¯ve already heard from Nanny Jiang . This has nothing to do with Sang Wan . Why are you venting your anger out on her!¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Wang Shi stared at him as if she didn¡¯t know him . ¡°Are you ming me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of this matter . Mother, you don¡¯t have to intervene anymore!¡± Shi Fengju said .


    Anger rushed up to Wang Shi¡¯s head, so much so that she felt dizzy . If Sang Wan hadn¡¯t hidden this matter about her second uncle and aunt, Gu Fangzi wouldn¡¯t have agreed to let him work in their family¡¯s business when Sang Pingliang came to find a job . Now that he had done such a shameless thing, couldn¡¯t she even express her discontentment? For that, Sang Wan shed with her and her son even called her meddlesome!

 Chapter 253

    Chapter 253


    Wang Shi¡¯s eyes got teary and she pointed a trembling finger at Shi Fengju, ¡°You... you are ming me just for your wife! Fengju, are you still my son? For the sake of a woman, are you not going to care about anyone else?¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shi Fengju was put in a difficult situation when he saw his mother behave like that . ¡°What are you talking about? What good would it be to our family to quarrel to such an extent?¡±


    ¡°Like I don¡¯t know?¡± said Wang Shi furiously . ¡°I was just angry and needed to vent my anger! Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t I be letting someone off easily for harboring ill-intentions towards us? Although this isn¡¯t directly her fault, if she had told me about her uncle¡¯s nature long ago, Fang¡¯er wouldn¡¯t have helped him when he came! Fang¡¯er was just being nice . Now, she has to worry about whether it will cause a misunderstanding! What about you? Without knowing what is right or wrong, you shielded your wife . Doesn¡¯t she have any fault in this!¡±


    When Gu Fangzi saw that Wang Shi was choking with emotions and even mentioned her, she came out from the warm room and pulled on Wang Shi¡¯s arm . ¡°Aunt Wang, Aunt Wang! You shouldn¡¯t say anymore and calm down! This...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t meddle!¡± Before Gu Fangzi could finish her sentence, Wang Shi interrupted her furiously and said coldly, ¡°Stand aside and keep quiet or others will take their anger out on youter on!¡±


    Gu Fangzi opened her mouth awkwardly and nced at Shi Fengju and Sang Wan before she silently stood beside Wang Shi without uttering a word .


    Without inquiring or giving a condemned look, Shi Fengju said to Sang Wan, ¡°Go back to Ning Garden1 first! Cousin Fangzi, the same goes for you!¡±


    When Sang Wan saw that her mother-inw did not refuse, she bowed and turned to leave silently .


    However, Gu Fangzi didn¡¯t want to leave . She pretended not to hear and stood beside Wang Shi .


    Shi Fengju could not tolerate her ying deaf, so he said to her again, with a re this time, ¡°Cousin, you should go back too . ¡±


    Gu Fangzi could only nod her head and said softly to Wang Shi, ¡°Aunt Wang, please talk nicely with Big Cousin! Don¡¯t get too agitated!¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and leave!¡± Shi Fengju couldn¡¯t bear to see her doing that . He resisted talking in a disgusted tone and spoke coldly instead .


    Gu Fangzi immediately felt bitter . She smiled slightly, and went out feeling sad .


    Wang Shi had nothing left to say to her son . She couldn¡¯t even get angry and her expression remained cold underneath the heavy atmosphere .


    After Gu Fangzi left and saw Nanny Jiang standing outside, she immediately knew that she did not do ording to what Wang Shi had ordered her to . Gu Fangzi couldn¡¯t help but get angry . She paused her steps and stared at Nanny Jiang before grinning all of a sudden . ¡°How loyal and faithful you are to Aunt Wang! How dare you pay lip service to what she had told you to do . I wonder if she¡¯ll still see you as her trusted servant in the future!¡±


    Without a change in expression, Nanny Jiang casted a nce at Gu Fangzi and responded faintly, ¡°Old Mistress gets impulsive easily . When she does, her decisions might not be right . I¡¯m loyal to her, so how can I do something that she will regret in the future? If she mes me because of this, I will dly ept my punishment . ¡±


    Gu Fangzi sneered without saying a word and left .


    ¡°Mother . ¡± Shi Fengju sat in the seat opposite Wang Shi and said, ¡°Just now, I¡¯ve already dissuaded Nanny Jiang . She also told me what had happened . If we send him to the authorities, it won¡¯t be easy for us to get him out of there . Aren¡¯t you making things difficult for us by doing that?¡±


    ¡°Making things difficult for us?¡± Wang Shi shouted coldly . ¡°Sang Pingliang¡¯s surname is Sang . How is he rted to our family!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s still our rtive after all,¡± Shi Fengju said .


    Wang Shi was left speechless for a moment . If Sang Pingliang was really thrown to the authorities, wouldn¡¯t the money required to bail him oute from the Shi family still? If they didn¡¯t bail him out, they would seem harsh and heartless . But if they do, weren¡¯t they simply making a fool out of themselves?


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t have morals and deserves to be taught a lesson! Otherwise, he might do something even more untoward in the future!¡± Wang Shi was still furious .


    Shi Fengju said, ¡°In my opinion, he shouldn¡¯t have been allowed to work in our family¡¯s business . If I were home, I wouldn¡¯t let such a thing happen!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi stared at him and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t indirectly scold Fang¡¯er here . Are you ming her? Let me tell you . She didn¡¯t act on her own and only did so after I agreed to it! That person from the Sang Family failed to live up to expectations . How could you me Fang¡¯er? She had kind intentions, and with what has happened now, she has nowhere toin to about her grievance!¡±


    Shi Fengju was not surprised to hear that and sneered deep down . It seemed that she hadpletely forgotten his warning! He had told her to stop using his mother as an excuse to do things . However, she did not take his words to heart!


    ¡°There¡¯s no point saying this now . I will handle this appropriately, so Mother, please calm down . For the sake of Second Young Master Sang and Sang Wan, who has been taking good care of you and this family, please don¡¯t get involved in this anymore!¡± Shi Fengju said with a slight sigh .


    Upon hearing him mention Sang Yufei, Wang Shi rxed and the resentment in her heart dissipated a lot . True . I cannot disgrace my son-inw, who came in third in the examinations . Now that he¡¯s in Imperial Hanlin Academy, it¡¯ll be beneficial for when my son goes to the capital to take the examinations and gets to pay an official visit to two or three great schrs with his help! As for Sang Wan, I¡¯ll just stay away from her so that I won¡¯t get frustrated!


    Shi Fengju could roughly guess what his mother was thinking when he saw her pondering first, then feeling rxed before finally frowning . As such, he said, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t me me for shielding Sang Wan . After all, you shouldn¡¯t have med her for this!¡±


    ¡°So, I am at fault?¡± Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but get angry again when she heard him and she immediately scolded, ¡°If she had told me about her second uncle¡¯s conduct long ago, would this have happened? She¡¯s the one who clearly only cares about her own dignity, so she deliberately hid her second uncle from us!¡±


    Shi Fengju answered, ¡°Sang Wan is the junior . No matter what fault her second uncle has, how could she be the one to speak about an elder, let alone in front of you? Mother, if she suddenly told you about the faults of her elders without a reason, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be feeling more disgusted instead . You¡¯ve really put her in a difficult position! On another note, it was just inconvenient for her to tell you about them . I know very well about her situation and she did not hide anything from me . ¡±


    Wang Shi was left speechless, but was unwilling to admit her fault . She snorted and said, ¡°Your tongue is getting sharper now! That wife of yours is always the one in the right . Just shield her all you want!¡±


    ¡°Mother...¡±


    ¡°Stop calling me!¡± Wang Shi waved her hand impatiently . ¡°You can go back now! I¡¯ve worried for nothing . I can only live for a few more years, so what is there for me to look forward to? The family¡¯s assets are yours sooner orter . Even if you happily give everything to your wife, I can¡¯t be bothered! Leave and don¡¯t annoy me here!¡±


    Although Shi Fengju could see that she was in a bad mood and had spoken out in a fit of pique, her tone had be softer . As such, he knew that she was just reluctant to admit her mistake, so he smiled and got up before he bowed and left the ce .


    In the warm room of Ning Garden, Sang Wan was sitting down with a frown and was lost in thought . When Shi Fengju lifted the curtain and went in, he saw her all by herself . Her slim body appeared to be deste and lonely without reason .


    Shi Fengju didn¡¯t feel good at the sight, so he walked in with heavier footsteps and called out, ¡°Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re back!¡± After Sang Wan turned around and saw him . She quickly got up and weed him with a slight smile .


    ¡°Sang Wan . ¡± Shi Fengju held onto her hands and pecked the side of her lips before apologizing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry . I¡¯ve let you suffer again . ¡±


    Sang Wan felt sullen and ufortable, but she forced a smile and shook her head, ¡°Mother has always been straightforward . I can understand where she wasing from . What about you? I¡¯m sure it was difficult to convince her, right?¡±


    Shi Fengju chuckled and sat down while holding onto her hands before he yanked her to sit in his embrace . Sang Wan couldn¡¯t break free, so she could only let him do so . ¡°How did you know I managed to convince my mother?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re her beloved son and you know how to exin things to her . She¡¯ll definitely listen to you . I¡¯ve troubled you over my matters . As your wife, I am deeply ashamed . ¡±


    ¡°Since you¡¯re my wife, I ought to shield you . Why say that? Sang Wan, you seem estranged from me . ¡± Shi Fengju hugged her tightly as if she would disappear once he let her go .


    Sang Wan nearly shed a tear . She blinked her teary eyes before saying with a smile, ¡°Fengju, if...¡± Before she could finish her sentence, she stopped .


    Shi Fengju was waiting for her to finish, but when she did not, he asked with a smile, ¡°If what? Hmm?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing!¡± Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°What I mean to say is, how good it¡¯ll be without all these frustrating matters . ¡± In fact, she had wanted to tell him that if he had enough of her someday, there was no need to force himself and they could just part without any hard feelings . However, when she was about to say that, she suddenly felt that it was inappropriate and quickly swallowed those words .


    ¡°How I wish too!¡± Shi Fengju sighed slightly . He lowered his head to give her a light peck on her soft lips before he said with his teeth clenched, ¡°I only want to spend my days with you . Why is that so hard! Sang Wan, am I really that good? Will you be able to live without me?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s body turned stiff . Despite knowing that he was referring to Gu Fangzi, she sighed silently as she felt that he still could not see the bigger picture . There was no way a man could easily understand a woman¡¯s heart .


    Shi Fengju added, ¡°I¡¯ve told her that I don¡¯t have any feelings for her and cannot be with her . I can still regard her as a younger sister and prepare a generous dowry for her so that she can get married grandly as a daughter of the Shi Family! And in the future, the Shi Family would back her up and wouldn¡¯t let her be bullied by others . Just why can¡¯t she understand?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps, she really likes you!¡± Sang Wan casually answered with a smile .


    Shi Fengju stared at her and replied with a smile, ¡°You aren¡¯t for real! Does she really like me? I don¡¯t feel it that way from her . ¡±


    Sang Wan sighed in a low voice and softly said, ¡°Maybe she isn¡¯t willing to let it rest!¡±


    ¡°Not willing?¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s heart shook and he suddenly froze . Not willing? It did seem so . She was too obsessed with their rtionship in the past!


    ¡°Things are fine with my mother, so don¡¯t worry . Also, I¡¯ll handle your second uncle¡¯s matter appropriately,¡± Shi Fengju said .


    Sang Wan nodded her head . ¡°I felt uneasy when I heard that they had gone missing . Just as expected, they ended up causing trouble! Whatever the case, let¡¯s not keep them here any longer and let them go back quickly! The amount that my Second Uncle stole... how much is it?¡±


    Shi Fengju raised an eyebrow and asked with a smile, ¡°Why? Do you want topensate for him?¡±

 Chapter 254

    Chapter 254


    ¡°Do I have a choice?¡± Sang Wan sighed with a smile, ¡°Money that reaches their hands will never find its way back! Or can I make them return it by force? I... I will try to think of a way!¡±


    Shi Fengju said with a smile, ¡°Your second uncle has an eye for valuable goods . However, we don¡¯t know at what price he resold them . The supervisor had let me look at the ount book . They should be worth around 8,000 silvers . You don¡¯t have to worry about this . I¡¯ll take care of this matter and pay for the losses! There¡¯s no need for the two of us to make things difficult!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Sang Wan was shocked, ashamed, and furious . She had originally thought that the amount would not exceed 1,800 silvers . She hadn¡¯t expected it to be nearly 10,000 silvers . Her second uncle really hadn¡¯t been polite . Just where did he get the guts from?


    ¡°I really don¡¯t have that much money on hand . I¡¯ll owe you this favor!¡± Sang Wan smiled helplessly and said with a sigh .


    Shi Fengju was fond to see that she was not estranged from him . His wife¡¯s problems were also his, so it was right and proper for him to resolve them for her!


    ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯ll have to repay me the favor that you owe me . ¡± Shi Fengju¡¯s hand on her waist soon moved down .


    Sang Wan was not in the mood to fool around with him at the moment . However, she couldn¡¯t help but feel slightly shaken by his teasing . She grabbed the naughty hand and said to him in annoyance, ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood for this now . Stop fooling around . ¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan!¡± Shi Fengju responded with a smile, ¡°Why should you let something irrelevant affect your mood? How I miss your bold behavior before I left home . Why do I not see it today?¡±


    When she heard him mention the other day when she went on top of him, Sang Wan blushed and nibbled her lips as she scoffed . ¡°What are you talking about!¡±


    Shi Fengju let out a burst ofughter . ¡°What am I talking about? I really do miss that! Just thinking about that day brings me much regret!¡±


    Sang Wan could not bear to listen anymore . She leaned on his shoulder and smiled, not willing to lift her head .


    While having her in his embrace, Shi Fengju lightly stroked her back and said softly, ¡°Sang Wan, let¡¯s have a child soon, alright?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s body turned slightly stiff but she nodded lightly and agreed .


    Sang Pingliang and his wife left Qingzhou on the following day with Yan Zhi, and the loss was reimbursed so the matter was quickly forgotten .


    As usual, Sang Wan paid respects to Wang Shi everyday and Wang Shi treated her as she normally would . However, Sang Wan could clearly sense that there was some distance between her mother-inw and her . From time to time, she would encounter Gu Fangzi . She would greet her politely with a slight smile and nod her head before passing her by .


    If Sang Wan had used to be confident that she could really be epted and liked by Wang Shi someday, it was not the case right now . She was a daughter-inw . No matter how good she was, one slight mistake would make her beyond redemption . She tried to be more open-minded and did not think too much about it . Rather than racking her brains over something useless, it would be more important for her to quickly have a child . As long as she gave birth to a son for the Shi family, together with her second brother¡¯s backing, nobody would dare to look down on her .


    Sang Pingliang¡¯s matter seemed to have caused a huge storm, but thanks to Shi Fengju, it was swiftly swept under the rug . At first, Gu Fangzi thought that Shi Fengju would storm into Peony Park2 to reprimand her . She had even considered carefully what he might say and how she should answer him .


    But despite waiting for a long time, Shi Fengju never went to Peony Park at all . Even when she purposely revealed her face asionally at where he would pass by or met him by chance in front of Wang Shi, Shi Fengju remained indifferent . It seemed as if the matter with Sang Pingliang either never happened at all or it did note to him that it would be rted to her .


    However, Gu Fangzi did not think that way . She believed that her traces were clearly visible and could not have gone unnoticed . Despite that, he wasn¡¯t the least concerned about it . What exactly was he nning?


    After being restless for three days, Lan Xiang went to the kitchen for Gu Fangzi¡¯s breakfast one morning . However, a servant from the kitchen ended up being the one to send the breakfast back in the end . She said that Lan Xiang had to leave due to some urgent matter and the kitchen had told her to bring breakfast in her stead .


    Gu Fangzi rewarded the servant with a dozen copper coins before dismissing her . Although she was slightly unhappy with Lan Xiang for leaving without telling her, she did not take it to heart .


    When Lan Xiang did note back near noon, Gu Fangzi vaguely felt that something was amiss . Thus, she ordered the servants to inquire about it .


    Gu Fangzi had never expected an old servant to bring her news that Lan Xiang had left!


    ¡°Servant Li, who is in charge of training and allocation, has dragged away any servant who is 18 years old and does not have any matches . The young head servants of our country houses, who have been recently promoted, have also reached the age for marriage . Hence, everyone has been brought together to match, including Lan Xiang . She said that the vacancy would be filled up appropriately in the next two days...¡±


    ¡®Peng!¡¯ Gu Fangzi smashed the cup in her hand into pieces and ran towards the main courtyard .


    Lan Xiang had been dragged away without a word!


    At this moment, Gu Fangzi knew just how important Lan Xiang was to her! Lan Xiang had been serving her for many years, but she suddenly disappeared! Who was the one who did it?


    Without a second thought, Gu Fangzi put the me on Sang Wan . She rushed into the courtyard and dropped to her knees beside Wang Shi while crying and saying, ¡°Aunt Wang! You¡¯ve to help me! Please!¡±


    Wang Shi was startled by her actions and hurriedly pulled her arm before saying, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? What happened? Don¡¯t be in a hurry and tell me slowly!¡± She then ordered Xiu Chun, Xiu Li, and the others to help Gu Fangzi up .


    Gu Fangzi refused to move . She raised her delicate face that was full of tears and tightly held onto Wang Shi¡¯s clothes as if she was clutching at herst straw . ¡°Aunt Wang, Aunt Wang! Lan Xiang is missing! She has been taken away! I only have one servant that I like! I can¡¯t bear to part with her after so many years! Aunt Wang, you¡¯ve to save her!¡±


    ¡°Lan Xiang?¡± Wang Shi was stunned and quickly asked, ¡°Who has the guts to take her away by force?¡±


    Gu Fangzi shook her head and only cried . She incoherently told Wang Shi what had happened in the morning and what an old servant had inquired .


    Wang Shi trembled from the anger, ¡°I know that those older servants are taken out to find a match for them, but I never expected Servant Li to be so bold as to take away your servant!¡±


    Wang Shi was furious and wanted to summon Servant Li . However, Gu Fangzi tugged on her clothes and said with tears, ¡°Aunt Wang, I¡¯m afraid it would be useless even if you question Servant Li! She¡¯s just a servant, so how could she be so bold!¡±


    Wang Shi frowned and became even more furious . She mmed the side table a few times before she got up and said angrily, ¡°We¡¯re going to Ning Garden1!¡±


    Servant Li would not dare, so there was naturally someone else! Other than Sang Wan, Wang Shi could not think of anyone bold enough to do such a thing .


    They arrived at Ning Garden, steaming with anger . It had not been long since Sang Wan had returned from her duties . Before she could take a sip of her tea, the servants hurriedly reported that her mother-inw had arrived .


    Sang Wan, Nanny Li, Liu Ya, Zhide, and others went out to wee her .


    Wang Shi had never been to Ning Garden, at least not after Sang Wan married into the Shi Family . She would usually send a servant to deliver the message instead . For important matters, she would have Nanny Jiange over . As such, this was actually Wang Shi¡¯s first time at Ning Garden .


    Sang Wan had a bad feeling about it .


    After seeing Gu Fangzi, who was beside Wang Shi with her eyes red from crying, Sang Wan¡¯s heart pounded even more .


    ¡°Mother! You could have just asked a servant to invite me over to your ce . You didn¡¯t need toe over!¡± Sang Wan quickly smiled as she went forward and wanted to support Wang Shi .


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wang Shi brushed Sang Wan¡¯s hand away with a cold look without being polite . She kept walking forward and said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re the head of the household . I can¡¯t ept such a gesture from you!¡±


    Everyone was greatly shocked . Nanny Jiang, Xiu Chun, and others who came along looked down and pretended to have seen nothing . The servants in Ning Garden were no exceptions . However, the shock could be seen on Sang Wan¡¯s face . She did not know what had happened that would anger Wang Shi so much .


    ¡°Young Mistress, you should go in too! I think there might be some misunderstanding, so you mustn¡¯t feel anxious or get angry . Answer whatever Old Mistress asks you, got it? Otherwise, you¡¯ll be letting a certain someone off easily!¡± When Nanny Li saw that Sang Wan was standing in a daze, she quickly helped her and said softly .


    ¡°Yes . Thank you for reminding me . ¡± Sang Wan felt a slight warmth and hurried in .


    Nanny Li waved her hand to call for Liu Ya before instructing her, ¡°Find someone appropriate to call Young Master back quickly!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Liu Ya quickly nodded her head and left .


    When Sang Wan went into the house, Wang Shi had already sat down with Gu Fangzi and Nanny Jiang was standing behind her . Xiu Chun and the others stood at the side, and there was only silence in the hall .


    Sang Wan only brought Nanny Li and Zhide into the house while the other servants stayed outside .


    ¡°Mother... may I ask why you came today?¡± Sang Wan went forward and bowed .


    ¡°You¡¯re asking me? You should very well know what you have done!¡± Wang Shi shouted sternly . ¡°Sang Wan, the matter regarding your second uncle has been of the past . We should all take it as if nothing had happened, don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    Sang Wan quickly answered, ¡°Mother, you¡¯re big-hearted for not pursuing it . I can¡¯t be more grateful for that! Of course, I think so too!¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Wang Shi said with a sneer, ¡°In that case, why did you seize the opportunity to take revenge? Fang¡¯er has told me before . She was worried that you would be unhappy and suspect her . However, I assured her that you have always been virtuous, well-mannered, open-minded, and are not muddled, so I told her not to worry! I didn¡¯t expect you to do such a thing! Since you didn¡¯t say anything in the past few days, I thought you had ced the matter aside . Who knew that you already had a n! Lan Xiang has served Fang¡¯er ever since she was young . Their rtionship is not as simple as just a master-servant one . Now that you¡¯ve taken Lan Xiang away by force, aren¡¯t you cutting her off from her most reliable servant? She only likes her, so why must you separate them?¡±

 Chapter 255

    Chapter 255: 255


    ¡°Mother, what are you talking about? I... I don¡¯t understand what you mean!¡± Sang Wan looked at Wang Shi while feeling puzzled .


    ¡°Lan Xiang? Lan Xiang is missing?¡± Sang Wan asked in surprise, ¡°How can a living person go missing? Could she be taking a stroll in the flower garden?¡±


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan!¡± Gu Fangzi went forward to tug on her sleeves and pleaded, ¡°Without your permission, how would Servant Li have the guts to take Lan Xiang away? Please return Lan Xiang to me! I beg you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was crying and tugging at the same time, causing Sang Wan to feel dizzy and she asked with a frown, ¡°What exactly happened? You¡¯ve got to tell me clearly!¡±


    Gu Fangzi only cried and pleaded, and couldn¡¯t say it clearly . Upon seeing that, Wang Shi became even more furious and she said resentfully, ¡°Fang¡¯er has already spoken humbly . Sang Wan, I¡¯m sure that however much anger you have towards her should have dissipated by now!¡±


    Nanny Li could no longer watch anymore . After she signalled to Zhide with her eyes, the two of them forcibly pulled Gu Fangzi back . Nanny Li said with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious! Nothing will be resolved by being anxious! You have got to exin clearly!¡±


    Nanny Li turned to Wang Shi and said with a smile, ¡°Miss, please don¡¯t me Young Mistress anymore . Even I am unsure what has happened to Lan Xiang . ¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid so . Don¡¯t talk too much and just stand by the side!¡± Wang Shi still showed respect towards Nanny Li . When she talked to Nanny Li, she sounded warm despite looking cold .


    Nanny Li knew that she was no longer allowed to speak . Otherwise, her face would be lost if Wang Shi blew-up! Moreover, since Wang Shi had said that, it meant that she would not believe her no matter what she said . Instead, she might even get angrier if she helped Sang Wan .


    ¡°Yes, Miss . ¡± Nanny LI nodded her head and stood at the side .


    ¡°Young Mistress . ¡± When Nanny Jiang saw that Gu Fangzi had been pulled aside and was not crying as badly as before, she exined everything and said, ¡°Young Mistress, you should send someone to call back Servant Li and Lan Xiang! After all, Lan Xiang has served Miss Gu for so many years . If you suddenly sent her away, no one can stand that!¡±


    Sang Wan froze for a moment . What Servant Li had done was a usual practice of the household . After Servant Li had reported to her, she nodded her head and allowed her to proceed . However, she had not expected Lan Xiang to be included in the list as well! Otherwise, she naturally wouldn¡¯t have allowed it . Still, Servant Li definitely would not have the guts either . So who could it have been? Shi Fengju?


    Sang Wan¡¯s mouth tasted bitter . If it had really been Shi Fengju, then Wang Shi and Gu Fangzi hade to stir up trouble with the right person! Hadn¡¯t Shi Fengju done so for her? In the end, she was the cause of it!


    She looked at Nanny Jiang in disbelief . Surely an experienced and earnest person like her would not believe that this was her doing, right?


    ¡°As if I¡¯d wait for her to call them back?¡± Wang Shi said with a sneer, ¡°She couldn¡¯t wait to stall for time! I¡¯ve already sent someone to stop them! Sang Wan, what do you have to say? Without your permission, how would Servant Li have the guts? She even dared to take Lan Xiang away without letting Fang¡¯er know!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s lips moved but was at a loss for words . She was disappointed to find that she had nothing to say .


    Her mother-inw was getting more and more aggressive with her words nowadays . She had no way to refute her, and she did not want to anyway . She knew that Servant Li was definitely not brave enough, so someone must have instigated her . Could she simply shift the me onto Shi Fengju?


    Whether or not her mother-inw believed her, her mother-inw would only feel more disgusted and furious if she did that . As a wife, criticizing her husband was definitely something her mother-inw could not tolerate! Moreover, Shi Fengju had done it for her sake . She wouldn¡¯t plead innocent and shift all the me onto him .


    ¡°So you¡¯ve got nothing to say!¡± Wang Shi sneered . ¡°Sang Wan, you are getting bolder and bolder! How dare you show your pettiness just because Shi Fengju dotes on you! I¡¯m sure there¡¯s no other household with a daughter-inw like you who is intolerant of others!¡±


    Sang Wan clenched her fists tightly and her body trembled . Wang Shi¡¯s words were like knives that kept stabbing at her heart and leaving her drenched in blood .


    ¡°Old Mistress!¡± A middle-aged woman came in and paid respects to Wang Shi before saying remorsefully, ¡°Servant Li took Lan Xiang to some country house . I didn¡¯t manage to stop her in the city so I¡¯ve sent people to various country houses to search...¡±


    Gu Fangzi, who had been sobbing with her head hung low, suddenly looked up at Wang Shi with deep worries . ¡°Aunt...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry . I¡¯ll definitely bring Lan Xiang back!¡± Wang Shi frowned and waved her hand . ¡°You¡¯re dismissed! If you can¡¯t even get such a simple thing done, why do I need you? Search for them and bring them here!¡±


    The woman acknowledged and soon left .


    Wang Shi turned her head and red at Sang Wan . ¡°If anything happens to Lan Xiang, tell me how I should punish you, Sang Wan!¡±


    ¡°I will ept whatever punishment given!¡± Sang Wan replied lightly .


    Wang Shi said with a snort, ¡°Stop giving me that look! As the one who manages the household, you can¡¯t tolerate others . Apart from that, you¡¯ve used such hical means . The Shi Family cannot tolerate a daughter-inw like this! Sang Wan, reflect on yourself!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned as pale as a wax paper and did not utter a word . She knew that her mother-inw had already been polite by saying that . If she did not have an elder brother, who came in third in the examinations, her mother-inw¡¯s punishment might have been harsher! The least she would receive would have been house arrest .


    Gu Fangzi, who had the same thoughts as Sang Wan, felt upset . Reflect on herself? That was letting her off lightly! After taking away her only trusted servant without a sound, only Heaven knew what she was going to do after . Her aunt was angry and said that she would stand up for her . However, she was not harsh with her punishment and only told Sang Wan to reflect on herself!


    It was unfair!


    ¡°Aunt Wang, you mustn¡¯t me Sister Sang Wan . I was the one at fault for causing the matter with Second Old Master Sang! I shouldn¡¯t have been softhearted and let him enter the Shi Family¡¯s business . I deserve to be med by her! I shouldn¡¯t have been so meddlesome! In any case, I¡¯m willing to bear the consequences! However, Lan Xiang is innocent! As long as Lan Xiang can return to my side, I¡¯ll let this matter pass!¡± Gu Fangzi said with tears .


    Sang Wan was dizzy from the anger and stared coldly at Gu Fangzi before saying, ¡°I know what my second uncle is like . No matter how muddled I am, I would not me you! However, you im that I do, which is odd! How would you know that? Regarding Lan Xiang, Servant Li would naturally exin to you after shees back . Please don¡¯t be anxious!¡±


    Furious, Gu Fangzi said with tears, ¡°If you don¡¯t me me, then why make a move on Lan Xiang? You clearly knew that she¡¯s my most trusted servant . Without her, it¡¯s akin to having one of my arms broken . ¡±


    Sang Wan faintly replied, ¡°I¡¯ve told you, and I¡¯ll tell you again . You¡¯ll know once Servant Li returns! Instead of asking me, why don¡¯t you save your energy and ask Servant Li and Lan Xiang instead?¡±


    Gu Fangzi was at a loss for words and was slightly startled . Then, she looked at Wang Shi as if feeling wronged .


    Wang Shi had not expected Sang Wan to be so daring as to treat Gu Fangzi badly in front of her which made her angry and she said coldly, ¡°That¡¯s enough! Stop arguing! once Servant Li and Lan Xiang return, we¡¯ll ask them!¡± While Wang Shi said that, she sneered slightly at Sang Wan, ¡°Sang Wan, you¡¯re behaving more and more like how the head of the household should be!¡±


    Sang Wan looked straight at Wang Shi and calmly said without fear, ¡°Thank you, Mother, for thepliment, but I think that I¡¯m not doing well enough! Regardless of whether I am the one who caused Lan Xiang¡¯s disappearance, is it a big matter for me to deal with a concubine¡¯s servant? Why, even Mother is pulled into this!¡±


    ¡°What... What did you say!¡± Wang Shi had a great change in her expression while Gu Fangzi widened her eyes in shock as if she had been poked ruthlessly in the heart . Concubine... Concubine... She was simply just a concubine to her!


    Sang Wan continued faintly, ¡°A wife punishing a concubine is an insignificant matter, let alone her servant . Mother, isn¡¯t that so?¡±


    Wang Shi stared at Sang Wan as if she was a stranger . Her lips moved but she had no words to retort . If she spoke, she would seem unreasonable .


    Gu Fangzi was just a concubine . A wife ordering the concubines around was an ordinary thing . As long as she was happy, she could even ask the concubines to make their beds on the floor and serve her throughout the night in her own room . If she were jealous and harsh, she would not need any servants to serve them . Instead, the concubines would be the ones doing so and even her husband could not say that there was anything wrong with that .


    ¡°Cousin Fangzi . ¡± Sang Wan¡¯s expression was sullen as she said each word coldly, ¡°How do I normally treat you? Have I mistreated you? You¡¯re even excused from paying respects to me . What more are you unsatisfied with? You ran to Mother whenever you wished and pleaded to her in tears for her to stand up for you . For overstepping your boundaries, say, how should you be punished?¡±


    After Sang Wan dropped that question, there was only absolute silence . Nanny Li and Zhide felt relieved while Wang Shi and Gu Fangzi froze .


    Wang Shi felt humiliated and was angry . What had she done? As a mother-inw, she had rushed over to her daughter-inw, got angry with her, and humiliated her for the sake for her son¡¯s concubine . No matter how it sounded, it was unreasonable, but...


    Gu Fangzi was shocked and furious . She looked down and clenched her teeth and fists tightly! Sang Wan clearly knew that this was her weakness, yet she jabbed her ruthlessly . She was utterly vicious!


    ¡°Fang¡¯er isn¡¯t any other concubine! She is...¡±


    Before Wang Shi could finish her sentence, she instinctively closed her mouth .


    Nothing could change the fact that Gu Fangzi was a concubine . So what if she was her sister¡¯s daughter? When she had married into the Shi Family, she was her son¡¯s concubine and should be serving her son¡¯s wife . This was a tradition throughout history! If this tradition was broken, the household wouldn¡¯t be far from chaos!


    This was not what Wang Shi wanted to see and was something she wouldn¡¯t allow to happen .


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 Chapter 256

    Chapter 256: 256


    <h4>Chapter 256: Wang Shi Getting Angry</h4>


    ¡°Aunt Wang . ¡± Gu Fangzi had wanted Wang Shi to stand up for her . However, Wang Shi stopped before she could finish her sentence . Gu Fangzi was silently disappointed at that . She got up and said with tears, ¡°Aunt Wang! Don¡¯t say anymore! I don¡¯t want to put you in a difficult situation! I wasn¡¯t aware of the severity, so it¡¯s only right for Sister Sang Wan to punish me! I was anxious for a moment and overstepped my authority! If Sister Sang Wan isn¡¯t unwilling to forgive me, then she can punish me however she wants!¡±


    Gu Fangzi clenched her teeth . She moved forward and kneeled before Sang Wan before tugging at her dress while wailing, ¡°Sister Sang Wan, please forgive me! Please don¡¯t be angry anymore! In the future, I won¡¯t dare to do it again!¡±


    ¡°Fang¡¯er!¡± Wang Shi had been reprimanding Sang Wan at first, but Sang Wan talked back instead . And now, Gu Fangzi was kneeling and wailing while feeling aggrieved . Evidently, Wang Shi was the one losing face and the scene before her was clearly telling her that her daughter-inw¡¯s words were reasonable while she was wrong!


    In Wang Shi¡¯s opinion, Gu Fangzi had nowhere to let out her suffering, so she wouldn¡¯t me her . Naturally, her pent-up anger was vented on Sang Wan and she shouted strictly to Nanny Jiang and the others, ¡°Hurry and help Miss Gu up! What are all of you standing there for!¡±


    Nanny Jiang and the others hurriedly agreed to do as they were told . Nanny Li and Zhide also went forward to help .


    Gu Fangzi had to put on a full act now . Since she was already kneeling, wouldn¡¯t she be at the losing end if she didn¡¯t do so? She tugged at Sang Wan¡¯s clothing tightly and wouldn¡¯t let go . How could Sang Wan free herself from that? Nanny Li, whose back was facing Wang Shi, pried Gu Fangzi¡¯s fingers apart without being polite . Only then was Gu Fangzi pulled away .


    ¡°Sister Sang Wan, I really know my misconduct! Please forgive me this once!¡± Gu Fangzi hated Nanny Li to death in her heart while her tears streamed down .


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Wang Shi stood up and said with a cold look, ¡°Sang Wan, good, good! You may be capable, but you aren¡¯t worthwhile enough to be lecturing a concubine in front of me! Fang¡¯er, stop crying! She wants to use you as a stepping stone! What¡¯s the use of crying yourself to death in front of her? You say she¡¯s a concubine, right? Then I¡¯ll make the decision now and raise her status to be a wife! I¡¯ll see what sort of excuses you¡¯re left with!¡±


    Gu Fangzi felt great joy . Her delicate shoulders moved lightly while she sobbed, seeming more pitiful . However, Sang Wan felt as if she had been cut into two . Half of her was feeling ice-cold while the other half was furious . A wife?


    ¡°I have noments . ¡± Sang Wan suddenly found it somewhat funny . Had her hard work been in the wrong direction all along? She had originally thought that as long as she cautiously won over her husband, she would gain a foothold and avoid the tragedy she experienced in her previous life . In contrast, she had neglected her mother-inw and Gu Fangzi eventually seized the opportunity .


    ¡°It¡¯s pointless even if you have anything to say! It¡¯s not your turn to be making decisions in this household!¡± Wang Shi said angrily .


    ¡°Mother! Sang Wan! You two are here!¡± When the situation was getting awful, Shi Fengju arrived .


    ¡°How did the news get to you? You came so quickly!¡± When Wang Shi saw that her son had appeared during the most inappropriate moment every single time, she was not delighted at all . Gu Fangzi, who was still sobbing, hurriedly stopped and looked down to reduce her presence . She was afraid that Shi Fengju would take his anger out on her upon hearing news and me her for instigating disharmony .


    In all honesty, she only wanted Lan Xiang back! She could not imagine her days without that servant . More importantly, Lan Xiang knew a lot of things about her . Who knew if she would have a change of heart after getting married? If her husband wanted to fawn on Sang Wan to gain a favor, and Lan Xiang helped him, that would be terrible! She wouldn¡¯t even have the time to be warned .


    Shi Fengju did not answer . Instead, he turned his head to the outside and said, ¡°Come in!¡±


    ¡°Yes . ¡± A youngdy spoke in a low and timid voice . A servant in a light green sleeveless robe and white silk skirt walked in . It was Lan Xiang .


    ¡°Lan Xiang!¡± Gu Fangzi was relieved and immediately ran towards her before reaching out to hold onto her hands . ¡°Lan Xiang, you¡¯re finally back! Big Cousin, thank you!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was ted and her heart almost leaped from happiness . She only had her suspicions, but right now, she was certain that Lan Xiang had been taken away by Sang Wan on purpose . Otherwise, how would Shi Fengju have brought her back? This was what others would call ¡®the evil that one brings upon themselves is the hardest to bear¡¯! Sang Wan had made a mistake even without her lifting a finger! Her cousin must have found Sang Wan¡¯s arrogance unbearable and intervened!


    Wang Shi, Sang Wan, Nanny Jiang, Nanny Li, and the others froze . They hadn¡¯t expected things to take a turn like this . The one who received the most shock was Sang Wan . That was because she knew best that Shi Fengju had asked someone to take Lan Xiang away . Now that he had brought her back, what was he doing?


    Before anyone could recover from the shock, something more shocking happened . They saw Lan Xiang retract her hands and take two steps back to avoid Gu Fangzi . She lowered her head and murmured, ¡°Miss Gu...¡±


    Her evident resistance and attitude caused Gu Fangzi¡¯s expression to change . ¡°Lan Xiang, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Step aside!¡± Shi Fengju said to Lan Xiang .


    Lan Xiang hurriedly acknowledged and did as she was told .


    Without even looking at Gu Fangzi¡¯s surprised gaze, Shi Fengju stepped forward and said to Wang Shi with a slight smile, ¡°Mother, I was the one who gave the instructions, so shouldn¡¯t I havee?¡±


    Everyone was shocked . Gu Fangzi stared at Shi Fengju in disbelief and in pain .


    Ever since he had arrived, he had never looked at her . She thought that things were over since he was not there for Sang Pingliang¡¯s matter . However, she didn¡¯t know that he had always kept that in mind and never wanted to let her off! Taking Lan Xiang away from her was his most direct reply!


    Although she could still live without Lan Xiang around, she was more shocked at his attitude . He was simply disinclined to talk to her .


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Wang Shi raised her voice in disbelief . ¡°You were the one who asked Servant Li to take Lan Xiang away?¡±


    Shi Fengju replied faintly without any care, ¡°Yes . Lan Xiang is not getting any younger, so it¡¯s time for her to get married! As for Cousin Fangzi, she can just pick another good servant to serve her! Lan Xiang did not decline too . Because Servant Li had to leave in a hurry, Lan Xiang didn¡¯t have the time to bid farewell to her master, but it shouldn¡¯t be a big matter since she¡¯ll naturally know about it afterwards . ¡±


    ¡°You...¡± Wang Shi became even more frustrated . She lost the mood to refute when facing her son . What was there to say? Why should she interfere with her son dealing with a servant? If she and her son had a conflict because of this, their family would be a joke if word got out!


    That made Wang Shi very furious .


    ¡°No matter what, Lan Xiang has served Fang¡¯er for so long . How could you not let her bid farewell before taking her away?¡± Wang Shi scolded .


    Shi Fengju answered with a smile, ¡°Mother, Lan Xiang is also a servant in our household . Can I not even take care of this? Besides, she was also willing to do this . If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask her! She has been serving Cousin Fangzi for so many years, so I¡¯m sure Cousin Fangzi will also hope to see her get married well, right?¡±


    Gu Fangzi was not in the right state to listen, and there was only one thought in her mind: Big Cousin is really refusing to acknowledge me! He really is! He didn¡¯t even question me . He... is being so ruthless!


    Upon seeing Wang Shi¡¯s furious gaze, Lan Xiang stepped forward and kowtowed before saying softly, ¡°I... I...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Wang Shi waved her hand in disgust and interrupted her . With a sunken expression, she got up and looked at Sang Wan coldly . In the end, she said to Shi Fengju, ¡°I don¡¯t care how you¡¯re taking care of this! But let me tell you, I want Fang¡¯er as my daughter-inw! I¡¯ve already decided, so choose an auspicious date and marry her as your wife! It isn¡¯t too much for your mother to want an obedient and suitable daughter-inw to serve me, right?¡±


    Since her son was the one who had taken away Lan Xiang, whether it was true or not, she naturally would not dare to question him . Wang Shi understood that and did not wish to listen any further . As his mother, she also had the right to request the sort of daughter-inw she wanted . Whatever daughter-inw she wanted, her son would have to marry her!


    Gu Fangzi nced at Shi Fengju . She was no longer as confident as she used to be, but her obsession remained . His attitude towards her was not important anymore . What was important was that this was her wish ever since she was young! After so many years, she had to make that wishe true .


    It didn¡¯t matter anymore whether he liked her or not! What she needed more was bing the Young Mistress of the Shi Family, and the wife of the Shi Family¡¯s eldest son!


    Sang Wan¡¯s face turned pale but she remained silent .


    Shi Fengju did not utter a word either . In the end, he said warmly, ¡°I¡¯ll send you back first!¡±


    Upon seeing that her son did not refuse her at once to not make her lose face, she casted a nce at Sang Wan before snorting and letting him escort her away . Gu Fangzi stared nkly and also went out without looking at Lan Xiang who was kneeling on the floor .


    The house became silent at once which nearly suffocated everyone . Sang Wan stood up in a daze, then she looked at Lan Xiang and said, ¡°Take her away! All of you can also take your leave . I¡¯m a bit tired, so I want to rest for a while!¡±


    Nanny Li looked at Sang Wan worriedly . She instructed servants to take Lan Xiang away before helping her into the warm room . ¡°Young Mistress, no matter what happens, you¡¯re the first wife and the Shi Family¡¯s daughter-inw . Even if her status is raised, she will still have a lower status than you! Don¡¯t take it to heart! Perhaps Old Mistress only said that out of impulse . When her anger dies down, this matter might be forgotten if nobody brings it up!¡±


    ¡°Nanny Li . ¡± Sang Wan smiled gratefully and said, ¡°Actually, Mother has always had that in mind . There¡¯s no way you wouldn¡¯t know about it . She didn¡¯t bring that up in the past to give me face, but right now, she couldn¡¯t care less anymore! Since she has already said it today, how could she change her mind? Nanny Li, don¡¯t worry . I¡¯m fine . I can bear with it!¡±


    Nanny LI sighed lightly and said, ¡°That vixen only knows how to gain other people¡¯s favors . Unlike her who is only verbally filial, I know that deep down, you¡¯re filial and have made many arrangements to make Old Mistress¡¯ life easier without her needing to worry about anything . However, you shouldn¡¯t have talked back to Old Mistress today . Based on her character, she wouldn¡¯t have said that if she weren¡¯t angry!¡±


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 Chapter 257

    Chapter 257: 257


    <h4>Chapter 257: Liu Ya¡¯s Choice</h4>


    Sang Wan said with a bitter smile, ¡°I didn¡¯t think that things would get to this point today! I waspletely angered by that frustrating troublemaker and didn¡¯t think things through!¡±


    Nanny Li replied with a smile, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter . There¡¯s still Young Master! If she can¡¯t get his love, so what if she bes the second wife? You might not have seen it, but from the moment Young Master came in to the moment he left, he never nced at her once! If he was still clinging onto their old affection, he wouldn¡¯t have done anything to Lan Xiang! It¡¯s clear that her persistence had worn off his affection!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart was slightly moved, but she still felt somewhat ufortable . Although Shi Fengju had ignored Gu Fangzi, he did not reject his mother¡¯s request . It seemed that he had no way out, just like her! After all, she was his biological mother . How could he go head-to-head against her to the end?


    Despite thinking that, Sang Wan still felt sullen .


    When Nanny Li saw that Sang Wan did not look well, she helped her to lie down before she pulled the thin silk nket up to her chest and took her leave .


    Sang Wan secretly hoped that Shi Fengju woulde to see her after sending Wang Shi back . Even if he couldn¡¯t change anything, it would be good if he had a few words with her . Unexpectedly, he was nowhere to be seen after a long time . Even after she had fallen asleep and woken up when the sky was slightly dark, Shi Fengju was still nowhere to be seen .


    Sang Wan was slightly disappointed . She sat up and was lost in thoughts for a while . Then, she let out a long sigh, tidied her hair, and got down the bed .


    She secretly mocked herself . What exactly was she angry at? What was she expecting? Hadn¡¯t she been clear that there would be such a possible oue as witnessed on this day? Back then, she had concluded such a possibility as the worst possibility, and she even thought about how she was going to endure and ept it . Since it was unavoidable, rather than getting vexed about this, it would be better if she put it aside and lived her lifefortably!


    This lifetime of hers was iparable to her previous one as her life and status were guaranteed . What did she have to worry or be at a loss about? What difference was there between a second wife or a concubine, and who it was going to be? Although this one was troublesome, most of the servants were not inclined towards her . What could Gu Fangzi do to her? Now that they had already fallen out, there was nothing to worry about in the future! Since she had achieved her goal, it was fine if she could live her life from hers . However, if she were to put her in a difficult situation and plot against her, she would not be easily bullied either .


    After thinking all these, Sang Wan felt more carefree . She smiled slightly and put the matter aside .


    When Nanny Li came in to report to her that Shi Fengju still had some matters to handle and that she did not need to wait for him for dinner, Sang Wan didn¡¯t mind at all . She only faintly acknowledged before asking what the kitchen had prepared . She told someone to save a few dishes for Shi Fengju and instructed them to serve dinner as usual .


    When Nanny Li saw that Sang Wan looked much better after resting for a while, she was secretly happy for her for thinking things through .


    Despite having those thoughts, Sang Wan couldn¡¯t let things go and was still worried . With such a situation this day, no matter how busy Shi Fengju was, shouldn¡¯t hee back early and say a few words to her? Even a long time after dinner, he was not seen . Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but be unhappy . She took a bath and went to bed .


    She didn¡¯t know when Shi Fengju woulde back . However, what she knew was that while she was about to fall into a deep sleep, someone embraced her and whispered something to her before lowering his head to give her a light peck . Sang Wan did not open her eyes to bother with that . She subconsciously leaned into his embrace and fell asleep .


    On the next day, Wang Shi sent Nanny Jiang over to ry her words, telling her to decorate the house, arrange a banquet, and let all the rtives and friends know that Gu Fangzi had been raised to be the second wife .


    Once Nanny Jiang said that, everyone in Ning Garden1 had a change in expression .


    Nobody had expected Wang Shi to do something like that when she got angry . When Liu Ya, who had always been loyal to Sang Wan, heard that, she trembled from anger . If it wasn¡¯t because Nanny Jiang hade and she couldn¡¯t afford to offend her, Liu Ya would haveshed out .


    However, what Nanny Jiang saidter on shocked Liu Ya even more .


    Nanny Jiang looked at her and said, ¡°Old Mistress also said that since Miss Liu Ya has been with the Young Master for quite some time, your status will be raised as well . When the timees, you¡¯ll be Concubine Liu!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Liu Ya turned pale . Upon seeing everyone¡¯s gaze on her one after another, with some feeling dissatisfied and some jealous of her, she blushed at once . She shook her hand and quickly said, ¡°Nanny Jiang, please tell Old Mistress! I don¡¯t have much good fortune and am ill-fated, so I can¡¯t afford to have that! Whoever wants to be the concubine can take my ce . In short, I...I just won¡¯t!¡±


    Nanny Jiang was also put in a difficult situation as she had already said those words in front of Sang Wan . However, she had to make Wang Shi¡¯s words clear . Thus, she said with a smile, ¡°Miss Liu Ya, what are you saying? Old Mistress thinks highly of you! This is a blessing that many could only hope for!¡± Upon seeing that Sang Wan did not utter a word, Nanny Jiang could only say, ¡°You¡¯re Young Mistress¡¯ dowry servant and you have served Young Master . You should be delighted about this! Young Mistress will surely be happy for you too!¡±


    ¡±No! I don¡¯t want to!¡± Liu Ya panicked that her face became so red as if she was about to cry . She hurriedly shook her head and refused .


    When Nanny Jiang saw that she didn¡¯t seem like she was pretending, she was stunned . Everyone was stunned too, while only Sang Wan felt ufortable .


    This matter had long been of the past . If Nanny Jiang didn¡¯t bring it up, Sang Wan would have also forgotten about it . If Liu Ya changed her mind now, took advantage of the situation to her own benefit, and pretended to be put in a difficult situation to ¡®reluctantly¡¯ agree to it, Sang Wan wouldn¡¯t say anything either . She could only suffer in silence .


    However, Liu Ya did not not do so . She was still the innocent servant who had followed Sang Wan from the Sang Family and was wholehearted towards Sang Wan . The riches and honor over the past year did not blind her eyes or heart .


    ¡°Liu Ya, why are you making this difficult?¡± Upon seeing the situation, Nanny Li couldn¡¯t help but frown and scolded in a low voice . Liu Ya was her adopted daughter and was also someone who belonged to Shi Fengju . Obtaining a concubine status would already be the best oue . Although this foolish servant had a deep affection towards Sang Wan, she shouldn¡¯t act on impulse at this time! Besides, when she became a concubine, she would still be Sang Wan¡¯s trusted servant in the future . So why did she refuse? Now that she had refused, someone would surely implicate this matter onto Sang Wan andbel her as ¡®unvirtuous¡¯!


    She wasn¡¯t helping Sang Wan but harming her instead!


    Nanny Li was secretly anxious and couldn¡¯t help but look at Sang Wan . At this moment, as long as Sang Wan spoke, she believed that Liu Ya would definitely be able to get out of the embarrassing situation . After all, Liu Ya had refused because of her affection towards Sang Wan .


    Because Nanny Li was Liu Ya¡¯s adoptive mother, it was not convenient for her to speak . If she spoke, it would be as if she was helping her adopted daughter .


    Sang Wan was actually put in a difficult situation as well . She knew about Liu Ya¡¯s intentions but could not say a word, not even a ¡®yes¡¯ or ¡®no¡¯ . The oue had to depend on Liu Ya!


    In a moment of desperation, Liu Ya was quick-witted and said, ¡°Nothing happened between Young Master and I! I would rather be a servant for life and serve him and Young Mistress . As for being a concubine, I¡¯ve never thought about it . Please tell Old Mistress that I appreciate her kindness but forgive me for refusing it!¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Nanny Li was taken aback . ¡°Back then... Back then, didn¡¯t you...¡±


    Nanny Jiang was also dumbstruck . Just what is going on in the past two days? Why can¡¯t there be any peace? Such a simple task of passing a message, why did it have to be so difficult? She also felt a headache, let alone Old Mistress!


    ¡°Miss Liu Ya, this matter mustn¡¯t be taken lightly . ¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not, Nanny Jiang . ¡± Liu Ya quickly added, ¡°Actually... I was only serving tea in the study room . Afterward, Young Master fell asleep . He didn¡¯t tell me to leave, so I didn¡¯t dare to leave . So I... I fell asleep on the chair . The next morning, Young Master woke me up and I went back...¡±


    Nobody could utter a word . Nanny Jiang opened her mouth and said helplessly, ¡°You silly servant! Why didn¡¯t you say a thing about it? Everyone thought that the Young Master had taken a fancy to you . ¡±


    Liu Ya¡¯s face turned red and stuttered, ¡°Nobody... asked me about it . How can I simply bring it up!¡±


    Nanny Li froze . Everyone had taken it as a matter of course, so nobody would have asked her . She couldn¡¯t bring it up for no reason either .


    However...


    Nevertheless, Nanny Li still felt that this matter was too absurd .


    Sang Wan silentlyughed . This servant was quick-witted and duped both shrewd nannies .


    ¡°Liu Ya . ¡± Sang Wan finally spoke . ¡°This matter is Old Mistress¡¯ kindness towards you . I won¡¯t force you, but think clearly first . No matter what, I¡¯ll still treat you as you are in the future . ¡±


    Liu Ya was her dowry servant after all . Regardless, she had to speak on this .


    ¡°Young Mistress . ¡± Upon hearing that, Liu Ya kneeled before her . She looked up at her and said firmly and calmly, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to rise in the social ss because of connections . I would rather serve you and Young Master for a lifetime! Forgive me for not epting Old Mistress¡¯ good intentions . Young Mistress, please agree to this!¡±


    Liu Ya and Sang Wan had always been on good terms . Everyone was also used to seeing her smiling self . Now that she was suddenly serious today, they were somewhat surprised . Her expression and tone showed that she had spoken from the bottom of her heart . Otherwise, given her rtionship with Sang Wan, even if she admitted, Sang Wan would not tolerate her . So what if she became a concubine? She was still a servant and could only depend on Sang Wan . Unless she had lost her mind, she would not betray Sang Wan .


    Nanny Jiang¡¯s expression turned somewhat ugly and she felt that Sang Wan had a temper these days . She had gone against Wang Shi not long ago which caused her to act in a fit of pique to raise Liu Ya¡¯s status . However, she would not be at a losing end even if she agreed to it . Better still, when Wang Shi saw that she had gone ording to her wishes, she might even feel guilty and let the past matters be bygones . However, not only did Sang Wan not help to persuade Liu Ya, she also vaguely supported her .


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 Chapter 258

    Chapter 258: 258


    Since Sang Wan had said so, as a servant, Nanny Jiang could not intervene in the Young Master¡¯s affairs . Hence, she could only look towards Sang Wan .


    ¡°Nanny Jiang,¡± Sang Wan returned a firm gaze, ¡°Since this servant has insisted, please report to your mistress and thank her for her good intentions!¡±


    That was a refusal .


    Nanny Jiang looked at Sang Wan and nodded her head . ¡°Since Young Mistress has said so, I¡¯ll report that to herter on . As for Miss Gu...¡±


    Sang Wan faintly smiled upon hearing Nanny Jiang . ¡°Mother wasn¡¯t there when I went to pay my respects earlier . I actually had something to tell her . I don¡¯t feel well these few days, so I would like to stay at the country house for a few days to recuperate . I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to help Mother out with this! However, since she has said so, I won¡¯t dare to disagree . I¡¯ll leave Nanny Li and Zhide at home to help! There are several other experienced servants . With them, there won¡¯t be a slip-up . As I¡¯m still young and have never arranged for such a grand event, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll only bring more inconvenience if I stayed to help!¡±


    Nanny Jiang froze and subconsciously looked at Nanny Li, as if wanting to ask what had happened .


    Nanny Li was in a shock as well . Sang Wan had never mentioned that she wanted to recuperate at a country house . This was her first time hearing that .


    However, she was someone who supported Sang Wan . If she did not know about this, then it would be clear that Sang Wan had made the decision at thest moment to go against the Old Mistress . Knowing this, how could Nanny Li let Nanny Jiang have any doubts? She kept a calm look as if she had heard Sang Wan say that before .


    Nanny Jiang silently sighed before she nodded and said with a smile, ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll let Old Mistress know! Oh, right . Young Mistress, when do you n to go?¡±


    ¡°Today . ¡± Sang Wan replied with a smile, ¡°I will have to trouble you to report back . If Mother is free, I¡¯ll go over and say goodbye to her . Otherwise, I won¡¯t disturb her .


    ¡°I¡¯ll report this back to Old Mistress immediately!¡± Nanny Jiang hurriedly responded . Trouble was brewing, and she knew better than to stay .


    Sang Wan nodded her head and watched her leave .


    Nanny Li dismissed the servants and left only Liu Ya, Zhide, and Hong Ye . ¡°Young Mistress, are you really going to stay at the country house?¡±


    Sang Wan answered with a smile, ¡°Yes . I¡¯ll have to trouble you with the matters here!¡±


    Sang Wan believed that she couldn¡¯t handle Gu Fangzi¡¯s matter personally . Since she couldn¡¯t change anything, she would rather avoid it and remain oblivious .


    Nanny Li moved her lips but did not say anything about reconciliation . She sighed softly . ¡°Young Mistress should stay there for a few days! Which country house do you want to go to? After staying there for a few days, I¡¯ll send someone over to fetch you! The household can¡¯t do without you!¡±


    Nanny Li knew that she hated what was toe . As such, she would fetch her back when everything ended . Otherwise, Gu Fangzi would cause an uproar to the point that Wang Shi would put her in charge of everything . By then, it would be toote for Sang Wan to return! This was not something that getting angry could resolve . In another few days, when Sang Wan¡¯s anger dissipated, she would surely think more clearly .


    Having heard that, Sang Wan just smiled without uttering a word .


    Not long after, Xiu Chun came to invite her over . Sang Wan instructed Liu Ya and the rest to pack the luggage, while she took two young servants with her to Wang Shi¡¯s ce .


    As she had expected, Wang Shi was very unhappy . When Wang Shi saw here in, her expression looked even worse .


    ¡°Your daughter-inw is here to greet Mother!¡± Sang Wan went forward and bowed before standing up lightly . Her head was kept low, and she looked gentle and indifferent with her usual gentleness and gracefulness . However, something about her was different .


    Wang Shi didn¡¯t say anything, and neither did Sang Wan . The two of them remained silent .


    ¡°You¡¯re going to stay at the country house?¡± After a while, Wang Shi asked indifferently without any affection .


    ¡°Yes, I n to go there today . I came here to bid you goodbye, Mother . ¡± Sang Wan nodded her head .


    ¡°Hmph . ¡± Wang Shi sneered . ¡°Why are you going there? Aren¡¯t you livingfortably here? Is your body feeling ufortable? Or maybe your mind?¡±


    If this was in the past, Sang Wan would have definitely turned pale upon hearing that . However, she was not that cautious anymore . So what if she was cautious? She still couldn¡¯t change anything!


    Sang Wan pretended as if she didn¡¯t understand what Wang Shi had been talking about and replied honestly, ¡°My body doesn¡¯t feel very well . Mother, please let me go to the country house to recuperate in peace!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi nearly fainted . She was so furious that it became difficult for her to breathe .


    ¡°Go!¡± She said furiously, ¡°Having bad health is not a trivial matter . Go and recuperate well! You don¡¯t have to worry about anything when you stay there . After some time, I¡¯ll send someone over to fetch you!¡±


    What she meant was that if she didn¡¯t send anyone over, she did not need toe back .


    Sang Wan didn¡¯t take her words seriously and responded submissively . If possible, she wouldn¡¯t want to return, but there was nobody who could stop her froming back either .


    When Wang Shi saw her indifferent look, it was clear that she had not repented . Hence, she waved her hand and said impatiently, ¡°Alright, you may leave!¡±


    Sang Wan bowed and acknowledged before leaving .


    ¡°Old Mistress,¡± After Sang Wan had left, Nanny Jiang went forward and persuaded, ¡°This isn¡¯t good, right? If Young Master were to know about this...¡±


    ¡°What can he do?¡± Wang Shi replied furiously, ¡°You¡¯ve also seen for yourself . Sang Wan wanted to go there . I wasn¡¯t the one chasing her out of the house! If Fengjuins to me about this, then he isn¡¯t my son anymore!¡±


    Nanny Jiang did not dare to utter another word .


    Wang Shi became angrier when she thought about it, ¡°Sang Wan is increasingly having a bad temper now! Did she really think that I can¡¯t manage her? It¡¯s been some time since she had married into the Shi Family, yet she still isn¡¯t pregnant even though Shi Fengju doted on her for so long . When Shi Fengju marries a concubine, she gives me this attitude now! Is this how the Sang Family bring up their daughter?¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress! I don¡¯t think Young Mistress is such a person . Please calm down!¡± When Nanny Jiang saw that Wang Shi wanted to settle scores, she quickly tried to mediate, ¡°Young Mistress is also really filial to you . I can see that, so how can you not? Although I do not dare to say this, but...¡±


    Wang Shi red at her and said, ¡°Don¡¯t say it if you don¡¯t dare to! I¡¯m sure you¡¯re going to put in good words on her behalf!¡±


    ¡°Old Mistress is wise!¡± Upon hearing that, Nanny Jiang smiled and said, ¡°Miss Gu has always been close to you ever since she was young, but her status has changed to that of a concubine after marrying into the Shi family . You¡¯re always shielding Miss Gu, so it would be strange if Young Mistress didn¡¯t have any opinions on that! Yesterday, although Young Mistress¡¯ words were a bit impulsive, she was not unreasonable . She is the wife . It is a given fact that a wife can deal with a concubine any way she wishes . However, Old Mistress, you brought Miss Gu and stormed to her ce . Where is her dignity then! Moreover, the incident with Miss Gu¡¯s servant wasn¡¯t even her fault!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but waver . However, would she simply admit to it? If she did, wouldn¡¯t it mean that she was at fault? Sang Wan was being so strong-minded . At this moment, she definitely could not admit her mistake!


    ¡°That¡¯s enough . Even you are saying that!¡± Wang Shi said angrily, ¡°Sang Wan knows about Fang¡¯er¡¯s rtionship with the Shi Family . How can Fang¡¯er just be an ordinary concubine? How can I bear to see that? Since Sang Wan is my daughter-inw, shouldn¡¯t she show consideration for my feelings with her actions or words? She¡¯s clearly going against me on purpose!¡±


    Wang Shi was once again convinced and she added with emphasis, ¡°It must be the case!¡±


    Nanny Jiang was madepletely speechless . The matter between the mother-inw and daughter-inw was aplicated one . Nanny Jiang felt that she shouldn¡¯t have spoken out of line! However, since she had already said so, she couldn¡¯t help but add, ¡°I know that you have a liking towards Miss Gu, but in this way, Miss Gu and Young Mistress are bound to be ipatible one day! How long can you protect Miss Gu? Young Master has his heart set only on Young Mistress!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi sighed softly and said, ¡°How can I not know that? But Fang¡¯er is so pitiful, and she¡¯s my younger sister¡¯s only kin . How can I bear to see her suffer? That¡¯s why I want to raise her status to a second wife . When she gives birth to a son for Fengju, she will have someone by her side for a lifetime . I will guide her well and mediate between her and Sang Wan!¡±


    Nanny Jiang really wanted to ask whether it would be toote by then, but seeing that Wang Shi seemed to have a card up her sleeves, she held herself back from asking .


    Sang Wan wrapped the luggage she was bringing with her and called for a carriage . She took Liu Ya, a young maidservant, and two other married women with her .


    ¡°Young Mistress, do enjoy yourself there . After some time, I¡¯ll send someone to fetch you!¡± When Sang Wan boarded the carriage, Nanny Li said warmly with a smile . She also instructed Liu Ya to serve Sang Wan well .


    Liu Ya quickly agreed and Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ll hand the household to you . You¡¯ll only have to focus on taking care of the things happening in the household . I know very well when I should return!¡±


    Nanny Li nodded with a smile and secretly sighed as she watched the carriage slowly disappear . She turned around and let out a long sigh .


    When Shi Fengju came back in the evening and didn¡¯t see Sang Wan, he hurriedly asked about her in astonishment .


    Nanny Li was in a daze and quickly answered, ¡°Young Mistress has gone to Dongliu Country House to recuperate . She said she told you yesterday . Young Master, you didn¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°She went to the country house?¡± Shi Fengju was slightly startled . Without answering Nanny Li¡¯s words, he quickly asked, ¡°Who did she bring with her? Did she bring all the necessities?¡±


    Nanny Li answered, ¡°Liu Ya, two capable married servants, and a young maidservant . We couldn¡¯t pack everything in time, so I¡¯ll have someone send the rest over tomorrow . ¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled slightly and shook his head before he nodded . ¡°Please do . Prepare more as well . Don¡¯t let her suffer! She isn¡¯t feeling happy, so it¡¯s good that she went to tidy up her feelings .


    Nanny Li was confused thanks to Shi Fengju and wondered if he had agreed . If so, why was he shocked earlier? Did he know or not know about it?


    ¡°Young Master, don¡¯t worry . I won¡¯t let Young Mistress suffer!¡± Nanny Li quickly nodded her head to agree . After thinking, she sounded him out, ¡°Today, Old Mistress ns to raise Miss Gu to be a second wife in the next few days . This needs to be properly arranged . Young Mistress asked me to be in charge of this matter . Young Master...¡±


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 Chapter 259

    Chapter 259


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes sank and he said nonchntly, ¡°Don¡¯t do anything for now . I¡¯ll speak with my mother first!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Nanny Li was secretly happy and hurriedly agreed . Then, she told the servants to draw water for Shi Fengju to wash his face and hands before helping him get changed . She also told them to see whether the kitchen had prepared food .


    Since Sang Wan was absent, Ning Garden1 was very much silent . When Liu Ya was still around, she loved to interact with others . However, Nanny Li and Zhide did not talk much . Shi Fengju and Nanny Li had nothing more to say afterward, and he was not in the mood to speak with the rest of the servants either . When Sang Wan was around, the two of them would chat happily . Now that she and Liu Ya had left, nobody dared to make a sound besides doing the work assigned to them . As such, the atmosphere inside the house felt somewhat tense .


    Shi Fengju felt awkward being surrounded by servants . During dinner, he dismissed them, and only his bowl and chopsticks remained with him on the huge table . He couldn¡¯t taste anything from the luxurious dishes on the table, so he returned to his study room and sent someone back to Ning Garden to let everyone rest as he did not feel like returning .


    After Sang Wan had left, Wang Shi paid attention to Ning Garden and got to know that Shi Fengju had locked himself in his study room . That made her somewhat unhappy . Since his wife wasn¡¯t going back, he wasn¡¯t going to do so either?


    When it was time to pay respects to her the next morning, Wang Shi immediately went straight to ask Shi Fengju, ¡°Fengju, are you angry with me? Sang Wan said she wanted to recuperate at the country house . I wasn¡¯t the one who chased her away . Nanny Jiang was present at that time . If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask her!¡±


    Upon seeing Wang Shi look at her as if wanting her to testify for her, Nanny Jiang was caught in between tears andughter . Old Mistress has be more and more like a kid! She is the Young Master¡¯s mother . Why would he doubt her words? Besides, Nanny Jiang was her trusted aide . If the Young Master doubted his mother¡¯s words, would he still believe her? Moreover, which master even needed her servant to testify for her!


    ¡°Yes, Young Master . Young Mistress was indeed the one who wanted to leave . It had nothing to do with... Old Mistress!¡± Nanny Jiang could only say this .


    Like Nanny Jiang, Shi Fengju was also caught between tears andughter . He was angry with his mother¡¯s actions . However, when he heard her words at this moment, he didn¡¯t know whether to still be angry .


    Shi Fengju felt that he was pretty much out of luck . In the past, he had refused his and Sang Wan¡¯s marriage, and his mother had to make use of his deceased ancestors and father in order for the marriage to go through . Now that he had seen through Gu Fangzi and was fond of his wife, he wanted to spend every blissful day with her and yet his mother kept intervening .


    If his mother was deliberately causing all kinds of trouble for his wife, he would naturally protect her from his mother . However, the problem was that his mother did not actually hate his wife . Because of various reasons, things blew up and Gu Fangzi contributed to it as well . How could he bear to me his mother?


    ¡°Mother . ¡± Shi Fengju said with a helpless smile, ¡°Why would I me you? Sang Wan had discussed it with me before going to Dongliu Country House . It¡¯s naturally what she wanted!¡±


    Upon hearing her son say that, Wang Shi was relieved . She nodded her head and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m relieved that you¡¯re thinking this way! That study room is deste with no one considerate to serve you . Don¡¯t stay there tonight! If you don¡¯t want to return to Ning Garden, go to Peony Park2 instead!¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡¯ Shi Fengju¡¯s expression sank slightly .


    ¡°Why?¡± Wang Shi argued, ¡°Fang¡¯er is your concubine . Since your wife is not here, it¡¯s proper for her to serve you! Besides, she will soon be raised to your second wife . I¡¯ve set my mind on this, so don¡¯t you tell me otherwise!¡±


    After Wang Shi said that, she red at her son unblinkingly, not letting any of his slight change in expressions slip past her eyes as if she wanted to see through him .


    It wasn¡¯t that he was unwilling, but he could not do so! He, Shi Fengju, would not keep a woman who schemed and made use of his mother over and over again . By getting rid of Lan Xiang, he wanted to give her a warning, but she unexpectedly did not care at all . Instead, she made his mother say such words .


    ¡°Since you aren¡¯t against it, then this matter is set! I¡¯ll ask someone to look at the avable dates and pick an auspicious one to get it done!¡± When Wang Shi saw that her son did not say a word, she made the final decision .


    ¡°It might not be possible in theing days . ¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ll need to attend the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce this year in Hangzhou two dayster . This can wait until after that!¡±


    The Chamber of Commerce was held once every two years . Almost all the merchants in various countries would gather in Hangzhou and sell various unique goods . There would also be many new and fresh goods there, and it was one of the most important gatherings for businesses all around the world . Not only could one have connections, but it was also beneficial for one to grasp the trends of various industries at present and in the future . All along, the one in charge of the Shi Family¡¯s business would attend it . At the same time, he would bring back variousmercial purchasing contracts, which affected the direction of the Shi Family¡¯s business in the next one or two years . Naturally, Wang Shi had heard about it .


    ¡°Fine . We¡¯ll talk about it when youe back!¡± When Wang Shi saw that her son did not turn her down, she felt better . She didn¡¯t want to argue with him at the moment .


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t make this matter public yet . We¡¯ll talk when I return . Can you promise me that?¡± Shi Fengju asked .


    Despite being unhappy, Wang Shi could only reluctantly nod her head . ¡°Alright . You¡¯ll have to listen to me when you return!¡±


    ¡°When have I not listened to you?¡± Shi Fengju smiled .


    Wang Shi scoffed . ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb with me! If you¡¯re really filial, you would¡¯ve alreadyplied with me on this! Be extra careful on the journey . I think it¡¯s better to ride a carriage instead . Let the supervisors make all the arrangements first . It shouldn¡¯t matter if you reach there slightlyter!¡±


    When Wang Shi recalled the ident that had happened not too long ago, she felt fearful .


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry . I¡¯ll listen to you . I won¡¯t get on a boat this time but ride a carriage!¡± Shi Fengju replied with a smile .


    ¡°That better be so!¡± Wang Shi nodded in satisfaction upon hearing that .


    Not long after Shi Fengju left, Gu Fangzi came to pay a visit while looking pale and dispirited . She forced a smile on her face as though it would sink when it was touched, which made Wang Shi feel sorry for her . When Wang Shi saw an unfamiliar servant behind Gu Fangzi, she silently sighed, waved her hand, and said with a smile, ¡°Take a seat! Fengju has agreed to raise you to his second wife . This piece of news should be enough to make you happy, right?


    As expected, Gu Fangzi¡¯s body shook as she looked up in disbelief .


    Her big cousin had agreed to raise her to be his second wife? Had her aunt heard that wrongly or was she the one who had heard wrongly?


    ¡°Silly girl! Would I try to deceive you?¡± Wang Shi said with a smile, ¡°Shi Fengju is going to Hangzhou to attend the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce in two days . It¡¯ll be done when hees back!¡±


    Gu Fangzi, who was delighted for a moment, was dispirited again . Wouldn¡¯t it be a monthter before he returned from Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce? At that time, who knew what changes there would be! Her big cousin was clearly dying it . Only her aunt would believe him so easily!


    ¡°Thank you, Aunt Wang!¡± Gu Fangzi said softly while looking down with a slight smile on her face . Of course, she couldn¡¯t show Wang Shi that she was somewhat disappointed and displeased .


    ¡°No need to thank me . ¡± Wang Shi sighed . ¡°In my heart, both you and Yumei are my dearest children . Whenever I recall the man that Yumei married, I always feel ufortable! How can I bear to see you not getting by well!¡± That concubine¡¯s girl, whom she looked down on and did not take seriously, ended up having a good marriage .


    Upon hearing that, Gu Fangzi was moved and yet, somewhat disappointed .


    ¡°Now, things are finally perfect!¡± Wang Shi said with a satisfied smile, ¡°In the future, spend your days well with Fengju . I know that you¡¯re a good child, and you will not let me down! You still need to take good care of your cousin, Yumei, in the future!¡±


    Gu Fangzi¡¯s heart lit up and everything suddenly became clear at once . Her aunt was actually helping her wholeheartedly and had such a goal . This was just nice . This way, she would definitely help her to the end! After all, her eldest cousin did not get along well with Sang Wan, which was clear to everyone .


    ¡°She is like an elder sister to me, I¡¯ll have to ask her for guidance instead! She will be the one taking care of me instead of the other way around!¡±


    When Wang Shi heard that, she knew that Gu Fangzi regarded Shi Yumei highly, so she was very happy with that . She nodded and said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re right . The two of you are like real sisters and need to help each other in the future! Seeing you girls getting along well, I can rest assured!¡±


    Gu Fangzi hurriedly made a vow to express her dedication .


    After some thought, she suddenly said, ¡°When is Big Cousin going to Hangzhou?¡±


    Wang Shi replied with a smile, ¡°He said it¡¯ll be within the next two days . I¡¯m afraid it will be soon!¡±


    Gu Fangzi nodded and said with a smile, ¡°I remember that the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce seems to start on the 22nd of June every year . I had guessed that he¡¯d be setting off soon . ¡±


    Wang Shi said with a smile, ¡°It seems so . You have a good memory...Oh, I remember! I¡¯m pretty sure you went with him once in the past!¡±


    ¡°Aunt Wang,¡± Gu Fangzi smiled slightly and seized the opportunity to say, ¡°It¡¯ll be more convenient if someone takes care of him on the journey . Why not let me apany him there!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Wang Shi was happy . She nodded and said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re very right! With you taking care of him, I can rest assured at home! Also, the two of you can nurture your feelings on the journey . When you return from Hangzhou, you will then be raised to his second wife . Won¡¯t that be great?¡±


    Gu Fangzi had expected Wang Shi to agree . When she heard that, she felt great joy and quickly said, ¡°Aunt Wang, don¡¯t worry . I¡¯ll take good care of Big Cousin! Still, I know that he has doubts about me . Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have gotten rid of Lan Xiang! Although I can¡¯t bear to part with her, I think it¡¯ll be worth it as long as he isn¡¯t angry with me anymore . I don¡¯t know if he¡¯s still angry with me now...¡±

 Chapter 260

    Chapter 260


    Upon hearing Gu Fangzi bring that up, Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help but feel disgusted . She waved her hand and said, ¡°He won¡¯t . I¡¯m in charge of this . Go back and pack your luggage, and be ready to set off! Since he has already gotten rid of Lan Xiang, would he still be angry? If he¡¯s still angry, then he has quite a temper!¡±


    Gu Fangzi was silently happy to hear that . She quickly got up and agreed respectfully . So what if her cousin didn¡¯t like her? Since she could make himmit to her in the past, she believed that as long as she had a chance to be by his side, she would still have a way to make him fall for her! Feelings could either change for the better or for the worse, and it would depend on whether she was diligent enough toe up with a n to win him over!


    She had lost once and learnt from her mistakes this time!


    ¡°What¡¯s this servant¡¯s name? Is she useful to you?¡¯ Wang Shi nodded and asked .


    Gu Fangzi took this chance and said with a smile, ¡°She is sensible and obedient . I would like to request for another servant to go to Hangzhou together so that I can take care of Big Cousin more carefully! When Ie back, I¡¯ll return the servant to you!¡±


    This was what Wang Shi wanted . With another servant by her side, her son would naturally be better taken care of .


    ¡°Sure!¡± Wang Shi replied with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ll let Xiu Chun go with you then! If you like her, she can serve you in the future!¡±


    Wang Shi treated the servants by her side very well . How could she simply give them away after being used to them for so many years? She could not bear to give her servants even to her son, let alone others . Gu Fangzi understood she was not sincere and only blurted it out . She would be a fool if she agreed to that!


    She hurriedly refused her, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare want a servant who serves you! You have taught them to be so outstanding; I will seem inferior if I take them, so I won¡¯t dare to have them!¡±


    ¡°How dare you dislike my servants!¡± Wang Shi startedughing and felt relieved . In fact, she regretted her words as soon as she blurted it out .


    ¡°You haven¡¯t told me your servant¡¯s name yet!¡± Wang Shi raised the question again .


    Gu Fangzi was slightly embarrassed and said with a reluctant smile, ¡°She is called... called Lan Xiang...¡±


    ¡°Lan Xiang?¡± Wang Shi¡¯s expression sank and she asked, ¡°Who gave her this name?¡± Without needing to ask, Wang Shi could roughly guess who it was .


    ¡°It was Big Cousin . ¡± Gu Fangzi was still somewhat embarrassed but said with a smile, ¡°But it doesn¡¯t matter what her name is . Any name is fine!¡±


    Wang Shi sighed . ¡°Since you think so, then I¡¯m relieved! My dear child, you¡¯re sensible to be able to see the whole picture!¡±


    ¡°As long as it¡¯s Big Cousin¡¯s decision, I will not go against it,¡± Gu Fangzi said softly .


    Wang Shi sighed softly and nodded before waving her hand to dismiss her .


    ¡°Fengju is already old enough, but why does he not do things properly!¡± After Gu Fangzi left, Wang Shi couldn¡¯t help butin to Nanny Jiang .


    Lan Xiang had been sent away but here came another one . What nerve he had to do that! Wasn¡¯t he clearly punishing her on purpose!


    It was not proper for Nanny Jiang to answer that, so she forced a smile and stuttered . Wang Shi didn¡¯t need an answer from her, but felt more and more angry . She instructed Nanny Jiang to tell Shi Fengju to see her after he came back .


    Shi Fengju returned only when it was veryte . Once he heard that his mother was looking for him, he went over without even changing his clothes .


    ¡°You just returned home? Why are you back sote?¡± Wang Shi stared at him before saying sadly, ¡°Your wife isn¡¯t home . Is that why you don¡¯t want toe back?¡±


    Shi Fengju was caught in between tears andughter . What was wrong with his mother recently? Why did she suddenly drag Sang Wan into this?


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I going to Hangzhou in two days? I have to hand over everything here clearly and properly, so I came backte!¡± Then, he said to Wang Shi, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s wrong with youtely? In the past, you wouldn¡¯t say such things!¡±


    Wang Shi was startled to hear that, and thought: Great, you¡¯ve changed! Weren¡¯t her words something she would often say when her son returnedte? When did he start to talk back to her!


    ¡°What are you talking about? Your mother is doing fine . I think there¡¯s something wrong with you instead! Have you decided on a date to set off?¡± Wang Shi asked as she stared at him .


    Shi Fengju answered with a smile, ¡°Probably two days time!¡± He then added, ¡°Mother, do you have anything you want? I¡¯ll bring it back for you on my way home!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have anything I want!¡± Wang Shi replied with a smile, ¡°I want you to bring two people with you, and you cannot decline . ¡±


    ¡°Two people?¡± Shi Feng was slightly startled and seemed to have understood what his mother meant .


    ¡°You need someone proper to take care of you outside . Let Fang¡¯er and Xiu Chun follow you . They can help you tidy up and take care of your meals and everyday life . Only then will I be at ease at home!¡±


    ¡°Mother,¡± Shi Fengju frowned and refused, ¡°There is no need for them! I wanted to tell you about this too . I n to go to the Dong Liu Country house tomorrow night and bring Sang Wan along the day after . Sang Wan has been the one looking after me, even on the journey back from Handan, so I¡¯m used to her taking care of me . Furthermore, the scenery in Hangzhou is nice, so I want to bring her out to enjoy it . Cousin Fangzi and Xiu Chun should stay at home to apany you instead!¡±


    Wang Shi was startled . ¡°You... you want to bring Sang Wan with you?¡±


    ¡°Yes . ¡± Shi Fengju added, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry now, right?¡±


    Don¡¯t have to worry? Theoretically, she should be at ease . After all, there was somebody taking care of her son! However, Wang Shi felt ufortable and said after a while, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier? I was worried for nothing!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been busy, but aren¡¯t I telling you now!¡± Shi Fengju smiled brightly and said, ¡°Alright, just take it that I was forgetful and muddled . I¡¯ll apologize to you, Mother . Are you happy now?¡±


    Wang Shi was caught in between tears andughter . No matter how ufortable she felt, there was nothing she could say . She waved her hand and said, ¡°Fine, fine! Be on your way! Whatever you say is always more reasonable!¡±


    Although Wang Shi was displeased, her son¡¯s feelings were more important . Since he said that Sang Wan took care of him well, Wang Shi could only drop the subject .


    Shi Fengju smiled and said a few more words before taking his leave .


    At Peony Park2, Gu Fangzi had not stopped smiling ever since she returned . She packed her own luggage and was meticulous . She knew that it was an excellent opportunity this time . If she didn¡¯t grasp this opportunity, it would be rare toe by in the future! Jiangnan was picturesque, and the two shared amon past . They had also been on this path together, and Sang Wan would not be there to dampen her spirits . Gu Fangzi believed that a human heart was not made of iron . On the ount of her working hard to take care of him, even if he didn¡¯t change his mind right away and treated her as before, he would at least treat her well . When they returned, the two of them would definitely get along better . At that time, as long as she sowed some discord between Sang Wan and him, Sang Wan would surely make some mistakes out of anger and Shi Fengju would eventually belong to her!


    In order to gain Shi Fengju¡¯s favor and make him reminisce about the past, Gu Fangzi made careful considerations in choosing her clothes and essories . In the middle of the night, she and her servant finished packing up . They extinguished themp and went to bed .


    Lan Xiang¡¯s peaceful breathing could be heard very soon, while Gu Fangzi was too excited to sleep . In the dead of night, she couldn¡¯t help but think of the previous Lan Xiang . If she was still here, she would have been as excited and would have neverending words to tell her . The present Lan Xiang was still iparable!


    Gu Fangzi did not expect that when she paid respects to Wang Shi the next morning, she would receive a turn of events that was like a bolt from the blue . Her face turned pale in a split second and her shocked expression made Wang Shi feel even more sorry and guilty .


    ¡°This is all my fault . Things wouldn¡¯t have turned out like this if I had asked Fengju first! Since he¡¯s bringing Sang Wan along, you shall stay at home . It¡¯s good too since you can better prepare for your marriage!¡± Wang Shi slightly pped her hands while smiling .


    Gu Fangzi was so angry that she nearly cursed . She clenched her fists tightly and held herself back .


    ¡°Yes . Sister Sang Wan has always been meticulous . With her taking care of Big Cousin, you and I don¡¯t have to worry! It¡¯s fine as long as he is happy! This has nothing to do with you, Aunt Wang . How can I ept your apology?¡± Gu Fangzi said reluctantly with a smile .


    Wang Shi saw that she was apparently forcing a smile, looking worse than if she were crying . She felt awful, yet Gu Fangzi still went ahead and consoled her . Wang Shi felt very touched at that . She lightly patted Gu Fangzi¡¯s hand, and sighed while not knowing what to say .


    Sang Wan and Liu Ya had spent two days in Dong Liu Country house . It was a secluded ce where the Shi Family loved to spend their summers at . All the furniture in the house was cleaned and tidied up, so it was convenient for Sang Wan to stay in .


    There was a huge fragrant camphor forest behind the house . Sang Wan loved the peace and the special fragrance in the air there the most . She often spent half a day with Liu Ya there .


    On the day that she arrived, she was vaguely hoping that Shi Fengju woulde to find her . Even if she wouldn¡¯t go back with him, the least he could do was express that he had her in his heart .


    Unexpectedly, two days had passed and Shi Fengju was nowhere to be seen . On the contrary, Nanny Li had sent someone to deliver tea leaves, tea set, pastries, fruits, a thin nket, cushions, and more, which she was used to eating and using, on the next day . Sang Wan was grateful but couldn¡¯t help but feel wronged . She silently got angry and became somewhat gloomy .


    Liu Ya knew Sang Wan the best . Upon seeing her reaction, she consoled with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, don¡¯t be too sad . Young Master must be very busy these few days . Otherwise, he would¡¯vee here to visit you! Everyone knows that he treats you the best!¡±


    Were her feelings so obvious? Even her servant could see through her in one nce and even took the initiative to console her!


    Sang Wan suddenly felt disarrayed and embarrassed .


    After a second thought, what was she angry for? So what if Shi Fengju didn¡¯t visit or care about her? Wasn¡¯t that expected? Why did she want him toe? She was simply thinking too highly of herself and him . Why should she make herself suffer for no reason?


    With those thoughts, she suddenly felt better . She shot Liu Ya a displeased look and said with a smile, ¡°What are you talking about? How did you see that I¡¯m sad? I finally came out to have some fresh air . The scenery here is so good, and there is nothing much to worry about . I¡¯m not so foolish as to let my imagination run wild instead of spending a good time here!¡±

 Chapter 261

    Chapter 261: 261


    Chapter 261: Hangzhou


    ¡°It¡¯s good that Young Mistress isn¡¯t sad . ¡± Liu Ya was startled and said with a smile, ¡°This house is indeed not bad . Let¡¯s have a walk around . I heard that it¡¯s even better at the back mountain . There are many fishes and prawns in the creek, and the ce smells really good . Let¡¯s ask someone to go there and catch some...¡±


    Upon hearing that, Sang Wan was in high spirits and her eyes lit up . Knowing that Liu Ya had been restraining herself for a long time, Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°Nanny Li isn¡¯t here . You can go into the water! Look at you . You¡¯re waiting anxiously yet you don¡¯t dare to ask . When have I be so scary in your eyes?¡±


    Liu Ya was ted to hear that and quickly replied with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯ve always been nice to me . You¡¯re not scary at all! You shoulde too and watch me catch two big fishes to be stewed tonight . ¡±


    Sang Wan startedughing when she heard that . She changed her clothes and brought a few servants before going together . The creek water was refreshing and clear, the forest in the mountain was verdant, and the flowers in the mountain were brightly colored . From time to time, all sorts of birds flew by or pped their wings while flying back and forth in the middle of the forest . The beautiful chirping could be heard asionally . Sang Wan felt carefree and gradually eased her mind from being sad and perturbed over Shi Fengju .


    Just when she calmed down, Shi Fengju arrived . She was taking a stroll in the fragrant camphor forest with Liu Ya in the afternoon and saw a cluster of shrubs at the side of the forest with a mass of golden-yellow flowers that bloomed very brightly . Sang Wan pointed and said with a smile, ¡°I didn¡¯t notice this flower yesterday . It¡¯s blooming well . Pick a few and bring them back . We¡¯ll put them in a vase!¡±


    Liu Ya was not the one who answered her . Instead, it was the voice that she didn¡¯t know whether to feel happy or angry at . ¡°Sang Wan, do you like it? If you do, I¡¯ll pick them for youter!¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s body became stiff as though there were something wrong with her ears . She stood still without moving and did not turn her head back .


    Shi Fengju sighed softly and went up to her . He embraced her tightly from behind and stuck close to her, ¡°Sang Wan, you aren¡¯t happy that I¡¯m here?¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s lips moved but her head and body did not turn . She asked softly, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Naturally, I¡¯m here to fetch you!¡± Shi Fengju chuckled softly beside her ear . When he smelled the faint, distinctive fragrance on her, he couldn¡¯t help but give her a light peck on her neck .


    His warm breath touched her neck . It had been some time since she had felt the slightly ticklish yet familiar feeling . What she loved in the past had be something she loathed .


    Sang Wan slightly leaned her head to avoid him and struggled to break free from his embrace . While pulling apart their distance, she turned and said, ¡°You¡¯re so thoughtful to visit me despite being busy! I¡¯m doing well here, so I don¡¯t wish to go back yet . If there is nothing else, you should go back so that your mother won¡¯t me me for not caring about you when you¡¯re tired!¡±


    Shi Fengju did not hug her again and stood with his hands behind his back before saying with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m not used to not having you around . Mother wasn¡¯t wrong when she imed that you didn¡¯t take good care of me!¡±


    Sang Wan got angry when she heard that . She said in a fit of pique, ¡°Isn¡¯t Nanny Li and Zhide there? Aren¡¯t they people who can serve you? When I was around, you didn¡¯t say that you need me to personally serve you . Why? You can¡¯t bear to see me beingfortable for two days, can you? I only came out for a few days and yet you say such things!¡± After she said that, she slightly sneered and added, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to serve others, but I¡¯m sure there¡¯s a certain someone to your liking that¡¯ll be able to serve you well soon . I won¡¯t disturb you, so let me have a few more days of peace!¡±


    Shi Fengju only looked at her without saying anything .


    Under his gaze, Sang Wan suddenly couldn¡¯t help but feel sad . Her heart was cold, and tears started welling up in her eyes . She quickly blinked her eyes and turned around .


    Shi Fengju was soft-hearted when he saw her acting like this . He did not tease her anymore and went forward with a helpless sigh before he forcefully pulled her into his embrace and leaned her head against his shoulder . He lightly patted her back softly and said, ¡°Silly Sang Wan . I was just kidding . Are you angry with me? I was busy the past two days, so I didn¡¯te to visit you . However, I kept thinking of you and never forgot you . Don¡¯t be angry anymore, okay?¡±


    Sang Wan clenched her teeth and held back her tears . She sobbed before saying softly, ¡°I don¡¯t want to go back!¡±


    ¡°No, we¡¯re not going back!¡± Shi Fengju quickly replied .


    Sang Wan was startled and pushed him away before asking, ¡°I just want to be alone . Why are you staying with me as well? It¡¯s neither far nor near to the city . Won¡¯t you be exhausteding back and forth here every day? Moreover, what Mother has decided will happen eventually . She will only be angrier if you act like this!¡±


    ¡°Sang Wan, I...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say anymore!¡± Sang Wan lifted her hand and covered his mouth before she said in a low voice, ¡°You don¡¯t have to feel guilty towards me . I know you were sincere when you promised me, but who can foresee the future? Now that there¡¯s such a sudden change, I really don¡¯t me you for eating your words . Mother has made it clear . If you refuse, it¡¯ll only be hard for me, let alone you . It isn¡¯t a good thing to cause unhappiness in the family, so forget it! I only have one request, and that is she cannot manage the household . Otherwise, I would rather stay here for a lifetime . ¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t going to talk about this!¡± Shi Fengju started finding it funny . He took advantage of the situation to hold her slightly cold hands and give them a light peck . ¡°Sang Wan, let¡¯s not talk about this . This has nothing to do with you . It¡¯s my matter! No matter what decision I make, it has nothing to do with you . Do you understand?¡±


    Sang Wan shook her head and replied with a bitter smile, ¡°Fengju, your thinking is too naive! Mother will not think that way, and neither would she! What can we do about Mother when they¡¯re on good terms with each other?¡±


    This was what he felt at the bottom of his heart . The so-called being cautious in taking actions referred to that . If he didn¡¯t want to hurt his mother¡¯s feelings, how should he do this? Furthermore, Gu Fangzi didn¡¯t dare to be imprudent .


    ¡°Sang Wan, it¡¯s enough to have those thoughts . Taking care of your health and giving me a son is more important than anything! Stop thinking of all these, alright?¡±


    Despite not uttering a word, Sang Wan was at a loss .


    ¡°Rest well tonight . We¡¯ll go to Hangzhou tomorrow morning! Hangzhou¡¯s scenery is picturesque, so let¡¯s go there slowly and enjoy the scenery! Don¡¯t let irrelevant things fill your mind!¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile .


    ¡°Hangzhou?¡± Sang Wan was startled and raised her head from his embrace to look at him in disbelief .


    Shi Fengju exined with a smile, ¡°That¡¯s right! The Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce is about to start! I¡¯ve already told the supervisors to go over first and make preparations . We¡¯ll just be in time when we reach there! I was busy arranging these, so I didn¡¯t have the time to visit you . Otherwise, how could I bear to let you be sad by yourself?¡±


    Sang Wan felt indescribable feelings surging within her . When she heard hisst sentence, she still quibbled, ¡°I came here for some fresh air . I wasn¡¯t being sad!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes! You weren¡¯t sad . It was me! Okay?¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve arranged everything . Follow me and don¡¯t worry about anything tomorrow! Sang Wan, are you afraid of a long journey tomorrow?¡±


    Afraid of a long journey? No matter how frightening or tiring it would be, it was better than being cautious at home and guarding against everything . Those days had been really tiring and frightening!


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid!¡± Sang Wan shook her head lightly .


    ¡°That¡¯s good . ¡± Shi Fengju said with a smile, ¡°I will bring you along when I go on a trip in the future, okay? The Shi Family¡¯s business covers the entire country . We¡¯ll visit each of them, and more than half a year will pass just like that . ¡±


    Sang Wan was startled and understood what he meant . He couldn¡¯t retort Wang Shi¡¯s words directly, so he was retorting this way . He could do anything he wished outside and nobody could stop him .


    ¡°Fengju...¡± Sang Wan had aplex gaze .


    Shi Fengju was relieved deep down . He knew that she understood what he meant without him telling her directly .


    ¡°One day, Mother will understand my feelings . An old woman like her surely won¡¯t make things difficult for me . ¡± Shi Fengju took her in his embrace and said softly by her ear, ¡°Sang Wan, I only want to protect you for a lifetime . ¡±


    Sang Wan¡¯s heart leaped and she subconsciously lifted her hands to wrap them around his waist while leaning in his embrace without uttering a word .


    Upon feeling this heartening action, Shi Fengju was ecstatic . Her soft and fragrant touch became familiar . He released her slightly, cupped her face and lowered his head to kiss her while caressing her .


    The two had buried the hatchet . At the moment, they feel much better . After wandering in the forest for a while, they returned to the house . Shi Fengju instructed Liu Ya to pack up what was needed for the journey . When Liu Ya heard that she would be following her Young Master and Young Mistress to Hangzhou the next day, she was ted . Thus, she went to pack happily .


    Not long after dinner, Shi Fengju took a bath with Sang Wan before returning to the room . The two had parted for a few days and their emotions had finally reached a peak . There was some romance in the room, and they soon hugged each other and fell asleep .


    Since there was sufficient time, Shi Fengju was in no hurry . The road was smooth and the forest was dense . Their carriage was spacious and steady, which made several stops along the way . It was already June 20 when they arrived in Hangzhou .


    At this moment, the Chamber of Commerce in Hangzhou City was bustling with people . The Shi Family had built a house near the West Lake, which had long been tidied up properly . Shi Fengju instructed the carriage to drive them to that ce directly .


    ¡°Sang Wan, rest well these two days . If you¡¯re bored, the West Lake is just outside when you go out . You can also ask the servants to apany you for a walk! After a few days, I¡¯ll stroll around with you!¡± After they settled down, Shi Fengju had his hands on both her shoulders and said with a smile .


    Along the way, there were no distractions between them, so the two got along very happily . Sang Wan was also in a much better mood . When she heard what he had said, she smiled and nodded before she said softly: ¡°You¡¯ve got things to settle, so you don¡¯t have to think about me! Don¡¯t drink too much at the dinner gatherings ande back early!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry . If I don¡¯te back, I will send someone to let you know! If Ie backte, don¡¯t wait for me and just rest early!¡± Shi Fengju smiled and lowered his head to give her a peck .


    Sang Wan agreed and said with jealousy, ¡°There are many beauties in Jiangnan who are elegant and refined . You will probably be lost in them and might not recognize your way back!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Shi Fengju broke out in a peal ofughter . He pinched her cheek and replied with a smile, ¡°That¡¯s enough . I won¡¯t dare to provoke you again . When you get angryter on and treat me indifferently, wouldn¡¯t I be the one suffering? Although there are many beauties here, they are just scenery in my eyes . What I only think about is to return home early to apany my wife!¡±


    Sang Wanughed, feeling rather embarrassed .


    She was slightly vexed at herself . Just then, wasn¡¯t she being jealous by saying that? For some reason, she ended up saying that!


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 Chapter 262

    Chapter 262


    In the following days, Shi Fengju went out early and came backte . As expected, he was very busy . Fortunately, the scenery there was quiet and secluded . During the day, Sang Wan, Liu Ya, and the others loitered around to enjoy the scenery . They would asionally take a stroll in the city as well with thepany of the head servants . There were no quiet days for them .


    Hangzhou was prosperous and populous, which Qingzhou could notpare to . Sang Wan and Liu Ya were full of praise after seeing it for themselves and found it hard to believe .


    On the evening of this day, Sang Wan, Liu Ya, the Head maidservant of the vi, Qin Shi, and two other servants went out to appreciate the lotus flowers and jade-green leaves . The huge pink-white lotus flowers swayed a little from time to time with the wind to rest in countless postures, causing one to feel warm at heart .


    While Sang Wan, who wore a hat, together with Liu Ya, Qin Shi, and others wandered around theke on the bluestone pavement where weeping willows and peach blossoms grew by the side, they enjoyed the beautiful scenery of theke and inhaled the fragrance brought about by the wind .


    ¡°Young Mistress, you must have been tired after walking for some distance . Take a seat and have some tea!¡± When Qin Shi saw a clean stone table and stool at the side, she went forward and said with a smile .


    The view there was spacious and quiet . Hence, Sang Wan didn¡¯t mind stopping to rest for a while . She nodded her head with a smile and agreed .


    The two servants quickly moved forward to open the bundle that they had been carrying and took out a yellow embroidered willow cloth to put on the table . One of them took out the tea and three to four tes of delicate pastries from the food basket before carefully cing them on the stone table . Liu Ya held the ivory handle of a moon-shaped fan and lightly fanned Sang Wan from behind .


    Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°You guys should be tired too . Have a seat and rest!¡± Then, she told Liu Ya with a smile, ¡°The shade under the trees here is refreshing, and the wind blows over from theke . Save some energy! I know you love to y . If you want to take a stroll, you can do so nearby, but don¡¯t go too far!¡±


    Liu Ya agreed with a grin and replied, ¡°I¡¯ll see if I can reach any lotus flower and pick two for you!¡± She put the fan away .


    After the two servants acknowledged, they sat on the grass beside the tree while Qin Shi stood beside Sang Wan and talked to her .


    Sang Wan didn¡¯t want her hat to get in the way, so she lifted the front a little and her view immediately widened .


    Suddenly, a woman¡¯s clearughter was heard on the path . It sounded arrogant and unrestrained . Sang Wan couldn¡¯t help but look over .


    She saw a youngdy with a slender waistline in a cherry-red embroidered coat, beige embroidered long skirt, and a twin-looped hairstyle . A man with a white round neck robe was chatting happily with her, and there was a servant in a lc vest and white silk long skirt . That servant carried a food box in her hand .


    The two of them were chatting happily with brisk steps and they looked very happy and intimate .


    When Qin Shi saw that woman¡¯s frivolous movements, she quickly looked elsewhere . She knew from a nce that they must be from the brothel, so she knitted her brows .


    Sang Wan also sensed that the woman was not a decent one . After casting a nce, she turned her gaze away and held her teacup to taste the tea .


    There was another stone table not far away . That woman in red said in a tender voice, ¡°I¡¯m exhausted after walking for so long . Let¡¯s take a break!¡± Then, she pulled that man to take a seat not far from Sang Wan .


    That man agreed with a smile and sat down .


    The woman asked a servant to pour her tea . The servant quickly put down the box she was carrying and took out the tea before serving it . ¡°Miss!¡±


    The woman in red received the tea and took a sip before frowning . She poured the tea onto the ground and took out her handkerchief to wipe her mouth before she stared at the servant, feeling dissatisfied, ¡°The tea is cold . How am I going to drink it?¡±


    The servant didn¡¯t dare to utter a word, while the man said with a smile, ¡°There is a tea house up ahead . Just bear with it until we get there!¡±


    The woman in red was displeased and turned her body towards the man before saying in a tender voice, ¡°But I¡¯m thirsty, and I can¡¯t walk anymore!¡± She turned to look at Sang Wan . When she saw Sang Wan¡¯s behavior, she switched her gaze to look at the meticulous Qin Shi, who was behind Sang Wan . She curled her lips disdainfully and chuckled . Soon after, she leaned towards the man and whispered something to him .


    That man started frowning and unwillingly said in a low voice, ¡°Qing¡¯er, stop making a scene!¡±


    The woman in red snorted tenderly and her face sank slightly . She pouted her rosy lips and said, ¡°How am I making a scene? Who doesn¡¯t have an inconvenient moment when they go out? It isn¡¯t a big deal to borrow . Go! Quickly go!¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡¯ The man turned somewhat impatient and refused to do so .


    The woman in red got angry immediately and turned her body away before saying, ¡°You don¡¯t care about me or dote on me anymore! You said you would treat me well . I gave up everything and followed you . It hasn¡¯t been two years, and you don¡¯t dote on me anymore! You don¡¯t even want to do something small for me, yet you still say that you have me in your heart and want to spend a lifetime with me! I don¡¯t believe you at all! In the future, don¡¯t think about pacifying me with all those sweet words! I won¡¯t believe you anymore!¡±


    The woman in red acted like a spoiled child and pulled the man¡¯s sleeve as she made a fuss . Nobody knew what she asked the man to do, which he had refused .


    The man clearly liked her . Upon seeing this situation, he quickly pacified her and spoke good words to her . The woman in red was unwilling to forgive him and asserted that his sweet words were just deceiving her .


    Qin Shi unconsciously frowned and leaned towards Sang Wan before saying, ¡°Young Mistress, we should leave!¡±


    Qin Shi found them to be bad luck . She did not look at the calendar beforeing out and ended up encountering such a brazen couple . What luck Young Mistress had!


    Sang Wan couldn¡¯t bear to see that anymore . She agreed to the suggestion and stood up .


    Qin Shi quickly called the two servants nearby . She told one of them to pack up their things and told the other one to call Liu Ya back .


    While the servant was packing up, the man walked over . The woman in red sized Sang Wan up in interest and contained her smile .


    ¡°Mister, what brings you here?¡± Qin Shi said as she blocked him .


    The man felt he was put in a difficult situation and his face turned red when he was red at by Qin Shi with hostility and vignce .


    Just when he was stuttering and wondering how to open his mouth, the woman in red also came over . However, she ignored Qin Shi and went directly towards Sang Wan . She greeted her gracefully and stood properly before she said with a smile, ¡°Miss, I hope you¡¯re reasonable! I¡¯m thirsty, but my tea has gone cold . Is it convenient for me to ask for tea from you instead?¡±


    Qin Shi replied coldly, ¡°There is a tea house up ahead . Miss, you should go there . How can our Young Mistress¡¯ tea be easily given to someone else?¡±


    Upon hearing that, the woman in red did not get angry after being refused impolitely . Her eyes flickered but she still ignored Qin Shi . She said with a smile to Sang Wan, ¡°Your attire is impressive, but your servant is so crude . Before the master speaks, the servant speaks first! I wonder how you can tolerate this presumptuous servant! I really feel that she is unworthy to speak on your behalf!¡±


    ¡°What...What are you saying!¡± Qin Shi hadn¡¯t expected this woman in red to be so thick-skinned, so she couldn¡¯t help but respond, ¡°Based on your status, how can our Young Mistress speak with you? If I¡¯m younger, I wouldn¡¯t have bothered answering you! Young Mistress, let¡¯s go!¡± Qin Shi said when she saw that Liu Ya had returned .


    However, the woman in red seemed to hold a grudge against them . How could she simply let them off? This time, she no longer ignored Qin Shi . Instead, she moved forward and grabbed her sleeve . Then, tears welled up in her eyes, blinding her sight as she said pitifully, ¡°What do you mean by that? I¡¯ve never offended you and only met you by chance . I saw that this youngdy here seemed kind, so I asked for tea . However, you kept mocking me! What do you mean by saying that you won¡¯t bother answering me if you were a few years younger? How can such a nice person like me be insulted by you? Second Young Master, everyone is looking down on me . Even a servant whom I met by chance dares to point at me and insult me! Am... Am I that undesirable!¡±


    The more the woman spoke, the sadder she got . Nobody knew whether she was sobbing for real or not .


    ¡°Qing¡¯er, don¡¯t cry! Don¡¯t cry!¡± The man became flustered at once and quickly pacified her . ¡°Don¡¯t be sad . You¡¯re the best in my heart! Nobody can bepared to you!¡±


    ¡°But everyone is looking down on me . Why should I stay by your side when others belittle me? Second Young Master, in what way am I not good? Why does everyone treat me like this? I only want to spend my days with you happily, serve you as a good wife, and be filial to your parents . However, who has ever given me the chance?¡± The woman in red leaned against the man and cried loudly .


    ¡°My wife has never offended you, so why do you say such hurtful words? If you don¡¯t apologize now, then don¡¯t dream of leaving this ce!¡± When the man saw the beautiful woman crying terribly, he pacified her with sweet words and instructed the servant to lend her an arm before saying to Qin Shi with a cold expression .


    Qin Shi¡¯s husband was in charge of many of the Shi Family¡¯s business in Hangzhou . Since she was quick in handling matters, meticulous, and easy to approach, Shi Fengju had specially instructed her to take care of the vi, and serve and apany Sang Wan . She always presented herself well at home, and was ady in charge of her household whom people praised and served . When she saw this woman in red behaving like that, she was disgusted and was at a loss for words . Right now, they wanted her to apologize? That was aplete insult to her!


    ¡°Wife?¡± Qin Shi stared at the man with a sharp gaze and smiled coldly . She pointed at the woman in red and said, ¡°She¡¯s your officially-wed wife? In that case, your upbringing must have been poor! If you want me to apologize to thisdy, I¡¯d love to ask you what you mean!¡±


    That man was suddenly left speechless because the woman in red was indeed not his wife . However, he liked her and was infatuated with her . He could only y along when she acted like a spoiled child and regarded him as her husband . However, what was fake would always remain fake . There was no marriage certificate, witness, or wedding ceremony . The woman in red also had no qualifications to enter his family . She was not even qualified to be his concubine, let alone bing his wife .


    Upon hearing what Qin Shi had said, the woman in red couldn¡¯t help but have a guilty conscience and continued crying at the man .


    Qin Shi snorted and personally helped Sang Wan . ¡°Young Mistress, let¡¯s go! If we spend any longer with such a person, your reputation would be tarnished!¡±


    Sang Wan didn¡¯t utter a word . She nodded her head and they left . The woman in red did not continue pestering them . However, she kept making a fuss towards the man .

 Chapter 263

    <h4>Chapter 263: A Visit</h4>


    ¡°Bring me back to your house, will you? Even if I will be without status, I¡¯m satisfied just being by your side! I don¡¯t want other people to look down on me. I don¡¯t want that to happen any more...¡± The whimpering from the woman in red was faintly heard. Subsequently, the man¡¯s soft sigh could also be heard.


    Qin Shi spat in contempt and said softly, ¡°A person like you wants to get married into his family? It won¡¯t be strange if you caused chaos andplete mess! This gentleman looks upright, but who knew that he would be tempted by a brazen sl*t! I wonder how angry and sad his parents must be!¡±


    Liu Ya suddenly said with a smile, ¡°Their ents sound like they¡¯re from Qingzhou too!¡±


    All of a sudden, Sang Wan stopped and looked back. She seemed startled for a moment. Although she had only cast a nce at them, that man resembled Shi Fengju. Even his stature was simr when she had looked over at them.


    Could this man be Shi Fengming, who had headed south? That woman had called him ¡®Second Young Master¡¯, and he had called her Qing¡¯er? Sang Wan¡¯s heart shook.


    ¡°Young Mistress, if you¡¯re tired, let¡¯s go back!¡± Qin Shi said when she saw Sang Wan stop in her tracks.


    At that moment, Sang Wan didn¡¯t have the mood to continue strolling. After she heard what Qin Shi said, she nodded her head and answered, ¡°Head servant Qin, those two were too rude. Send two servants to follow them and see where they stay!¡±


    Since she had met them, Sang Wan had to investigate clearly.


    ¡°Yes, Young Mistress!¡± Qin Shi agreed. Those two were simply repulsive. It was no wonder that her Young Mistress, who was gentle and amiable, had gotten angry.


    When Sang Wan returned to the house, she called the head servant over and asked about Shi Fengju¡¯s whereabouts as well as when he would return home.


    In the past few days, Shi Fengju had been busy getting in touch and associating with people from the Chamber of Commerce. Since Sang Wan had never asked that before, the head servant was slightly astonished but also relieved. He understood that it was normal for his Young Mistress to feel worried. His young master was wealthy and handsome. During this time every year, the courtesans would gather in Hangzhou. Despite being only a short eight-day period, it was enough to make anyone feel worried. Therefore, it was natural for the Young Mistress to be worried.


    The head servant replied honestly with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m not sure.¡±


    It was better not to take part in anything regarding his masters!


    Unexpectedly, Sang Wan did not intend to let him off and said, ¡°Send someone to find out. Tell him that I have something urgent for him. If he is free, tell him toe back early today!¡±


    Without a choice, the head servant agreed before carrying out what he was told.


    Sang Wan had initially thought that Shi Fengju would return just before dinner. However, he came back not long after word was sent. He walked in with a smile and asked, ¡°Sang Wan, you were looking for me?¡±


    Upon seeing hime back so quickly, Sang Wan felt very apologetic. She quickly got up and weed him before replying with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s only a small matter that can be toldter on. Did I dy you from any proper business?¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head with a smile and sat down. ¡°Since you were looking for me, I got to skive for half a day!¡±


    When Sang Wan saw that he was waiting for her to speak, she hesitated as she was afraid that her guess might be wrong.


    ¡°Um... Did your second younger brother head south? Do you think it¡¯s possible that he¡¯s in Hangzhou?¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°That¡¯s possible! Second Brother loves liveliness, so he might havee here. However, he knows that I¡¯ll definitely be here!¡± In other words, if he did not want to be found, he would probably avoid this ce.


    ¡°Does the woman with him have a ¡®Qing¡¯ in her name?¡± Sang Wan asked again.


    When Sang Wan asked that, Shi Fengju could not help but knit his brows slightly. ¡°She¡¯s called Su Qing¡¯er. She isn¡¯t a properdy. Why did you bring her up, Sang Wan?¡±


    At that moment, Sang Wan was certain. She then told him everything that had happened at the West Lake that day.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression turned cold. ¡°That woman is so frivolous! How dare she pester you in broad daylight?¡±


    Sang Wan felt warm that he was concerned about her and said softly, ¡°Who could have expected this? At that time, Head Servant Qin dealt with her and I did not talk to her.¡±


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression then eased. ¡°Head Servant Qin is steadfast and capable. She did not neglect her job.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already asked someone to follow them secretly. However, I wouldn¡¯t dare to be sure if he¡¯s really the Second Young Master. ¡±


    Shi Fengju muttered and responded with a smile, ¡°We¡¯ll talk about this when the servants return! We¡¯ll know for sure when I go and pay a visit! If I can really bring Second Brother back with me this time, it would be a big matter.¡±


    Sang Wan suddenly recalled what she had heard after she left. She thought for a while and said with a smile, ¡°Su Qing¡¯er seemed to want him to bring her back too! When the timees and Second Young Master insists on taking her along, would you agree to it?¡±


    ¡°How can I?¡± Shi Fengju opposed without thinking and said, ¡°If that woman can enter the Shi household, Second Brother wouldn¡¯t have escaped angrily at that time. Besides, having a tainted reputation as someone from the brothel, the rule that my great-grandfather has set up would be broken! After such a long time, Second Brother still only has that woman in his heart?¡±


    Sang Wan recalled what she had seen and felt that he didn¡¯t just have her in his heart, he was simply obedient to her! He would even ask for tea for her.


    ¡°You¡¯ll know at that time!¡± Sang Wan said with a smile, ¡°I wonder when they will be back to report about this. Do you still need to leave the house?¡±


    Shi Fengju shook his head and answered with a smile, ¡°How could I still have the mood to do anything outside? I¡¯ll just wait with you!¡±


    However, the people who were tailing did not return even when evening came. Sang Wan sighed lightly and ordered the servants to set up the table for dinner. Some time after the two of them had their dinner, those two women hurried back to report about the matter.


    ¡°What took you two so long? You didn¡¯t lose them, did you? ¡®When Sang Wan heard that they hade back, she quickly went forward to ask them.


    The two of them looked very tired. After Sang Wan asked them, one of them quickly answered, ¡°Young Mistress, don¡¯t worry. Which part of Hangzhou are we not familiar with? How could we have lost them? That gentleman anddy strolled for a very long time. Afterward, they sat down at a teahouse and then strolled for half a day downtown. Then, they had their dinner at Furong Restaurant before they took the horse carriage home! We did not dare to walk away, so we kept following them!¡±


    ¡°The two of you have done a great job! Each of you shall be rewarded with 5 silverster on!¡± Sang Wan nodded her head with a smile before she quickly asked where they were staying.


    When the two women saw that their Young Master¡¯s expression was dark and he was sitting at the side without uttering a word, they knew that their Young Mistress had definitely brought up the day¡¯s matter to him. Their Young Master must be angry and wanted to quickly seek justice for her. They quickly told them the address, which was at a small courtyard at No. 160 at South Cui Liu Lane, Guang Lin Street.


    ¡°Sang Wan, I¡¯ll go over there. You rest first!¡± Shi Fengju got up right away after hearing that.


    ¡°Be careful on your way!¡± Sang Wan got up and sent him off. When she saw that his expression didn¡¯t look good, she couldn¡¯t help but persuade him gently, ¡°If it¡¯s what we expect, talk to him nicely. Don¡¯t end up quarreling!¡±


    Shi Fengju smiled and caressed her face. ¡°Don¡¯t worry! I¡¯ll grab this chance and not let him escape!¡±


    Sang Wan smiled and watched him leave.


    The two servants looked each other in the eyes and felt secretly envious?¡ªYoung Master treated the Young mistress really well! He even went to seek justice for her at this hour!


    Shi Fengju took Zhan Huan, four young servants, and two capable female servants along with him, and easily found the ce.


    Before Zhan Huan got down the horse, Shi Fengju had jumped off from the horse carriage and knocked on the door. His crude voice represented the anger and impatience within him.


    ¡°Who¡¯s being so unruly? What are you knocking so loudly for?¡± An impatient voice was heard from the courtyard, and the door suddenly opened. A servant in green clothes, who had opened the door, stared at the uninvited guest and was about to scold him. Under the moonlight, he was stunned to see Shi Fengju standing before him with a cold expression and an upright posture. He stammered, ¡°Young... Young... Master...¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Shi Fengju casted a cold nce at him and pushed him aside. ¡°Move aside!¡±


    ¡°Young Master!¡± Shi Lu became very anxious, wanting to step forward to stop him, yet he was hesitant. Before he could react, Shi Fengju had brought his people in. Zhan Huan pulled him away and whispered, ¡°Brother, aren¡¯t you a foolish one? You still want to inform them that First Young Master is here? You won¡¯t be at the losing end if he manages to persuade the Second Young Master to go home, but if you carry on being an aplice, Second Old Master and Second Old Mistress would surely beat you to death!¡±


    Shi Lu turned pale instantly.


    There were two entrances inside out of this courtyard, and the ce was not big either. Shi Fengju ordered two servants to guard at the gates while he slowly went to the house with two female servants.


    There was light in the house up ahead, and the two figures, reflected in the paper doors, shifted gently. A man and a woman could be seen clearly. There was another shadow faintly visible on the side, which should belong to a servant.


    Shi Fengju gestured for the two female servants to stand under the porch, while he walked forward and stood outside the window. He could hear the voices inside clearly from where he stood.


    ¡°Second Young Master, have you carefully thought about what I said today?¡± Su Qing¡¯er asked with a delicate voice and her silhouette shook slightly. It must be because she was shaking Shi Fengming¡¯s arm while asking that.


    Shi Fengming answered vaguely with a smile, ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it tomorrow, okay? Qing¡¯er, aren¡¯t you tired after strolling around for a day? Ask Xiao Lian to draw some water to take a bath. Let¡¯s rest early...¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Su Qing¡¯er snorted coquettishly and said, ¡°Do you still need to think about this? You obviously look down on me and won¡¯t take me back to your house! I don¡¯t need any status, really. I just want to be with you. That¡¯s all I want. Your parents should not be angry anymore after so long. Let¡¯s go back and beg them. You¡¯re their son. How could they refuse you so easily? Second Young Master, you¡¯re as noble as gold and jade, but you¡¯ve been wandering around with me. How can I live with that? Your parents must be worried sick at home and miss you every night. My sins are only going to get heavier! Let¡¯s go back, okay! We can¡¯t live like this forever!¡±


    ¡°Qing¡¯er, you¡¯re too good and honest!¡± Shi Fengming said with a soft sigh, ¡°You¡¯ve thought it through for me. However, you know my father¡¯s temper. He has never liked me very much. If we go back, he won¡¯t let us off easily. With so many people in the household, it will be impossible for us to escape by then! If he does anything to you, I...¡±


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 Chapter 264

    <h4>Chapter 264: Coming Up With A n To Return To The Household</h4>


    ¡°Don¡¯t say anymore!¡± Su Qing¡¯er gently covered his mouth. Her eyes blinked slightly, and her voice was as gentle as a feather when she spoke, ¡°You will always stand by me, right?¡±


    ¡°I will,¡± Shi Fengming held her hand and kissed it. He looked at the woman in front of him as if she was the most precious treasure in the world. ¡°But I¡¯m afraid that I won¡¯t be able to protect you and instead cause you to suffer...¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er knitted her brows slightly and chuckled. ¡°No parent would hurt their child. If you force them by threatening them with your death, they will definitely ept me for the sake of our love! If... If they look down on my family background, wouldn¡¯t it be fine if they simply changed my identity. As long as they can ept me, anything is fine!¡±


    ¡°This...¡± Shi Fengming froze slightly.


    Shi Fengju could not help but tighten his fists. That woman was shallow indeed! She even thought to instigate that fool to challenge his parents by threatening them with his own death? How could she say that!


    ¡°Second Young Master!¡± Upon seeing him hesitate, Su Qing¡¯er started to act coquettishly and shook him constantly. ¡°In the end, you don¡¯t love me anymore! You think that I¡¯m not worthy to be married into the Shi household! You said that you would love and care only for me in your lifetime! I bet all those are just lies! When you grow tired of me, you¡¯ll secretly pack up and run away! Even if I go blind from crying at that time, there¡¯s nothing I can do but to ept it!¡±


    The more Su Qing¡¯er thought about it, the more aggrieved she became, and she couldn¡¯t help but start to weep.


    As soon as she started weeping, Shi Fengming felt sorry for her and coaxed her incessantly, but Su Qing¡¯er refused to listen and was unwilling to forgive him.


    Shi Fengju was on hisst straw, so he walked loudly to the door and knocked on it hard.


    The sound of weeping and persuasion in the house ended right away.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± Shi Fengming was startled.


    Since Shi Fengming had eloped with Su Qing¡¯er, he naturally wouldn¡¯t visit his rtives or friends. The two of them had been staying in the small courtyard for more than ten days, and nobody had visited them before. Moreover, it was already night and the knock on the door was impolite.


    Shi Fengming subconsciously felt that it was anything but reassuring. He stopped Xiao Lian and instead opened the door himself. When he saw Shi Fengju standing at the door, he was dumbfounded.


    Shi Fengju smiled slightly. ¡°Why? You aren¡¯t going to invite me in?¡±


    ¡°Big... Big Brother!¡± Shi Fengming¡¯s heart was a mess. He smiled stiffly and stepped aside.


    Shi Fengju looked at him and walked in.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this... Eldest Young Master! Qing¡¯er greets you!¡± Su Qing¡¯er and Xiao Lian also went up. When Su Qing¡¯er saw Shi Fengu, she was overjoyed at the turn of events. She quickly paid respects to him and said with a smile, ¡°I was unaware that you would visit our humble home, so I didn¡¯t prepare anything. Our ce is simple, so please be magnanimous and bear with this ce!¡±


    Once Su Qing¡¯er spoke, she had already regarded herself as the mistress of the house.


    Shi Fengju moved to the side and avoided her greeting. He cast her a cold nce. ¡°Your humble home being honored by my presence? I¡¯m here to see my brother. It doesn¡¯t seem to have anything to do with you, does it? And is this courtyard rented or bought by you? Listen to the way you speak!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s expression turned somewhat ugly, but she forcefully maintained a smile before looking at Shi Fengming in grievance.


    How could he bear to see her aggrieved? He was displeased and said, ¡°Big Brother...¡±


    Shi Fengju answered him coldly, ¡°Make her leave. I have something to talk to you about!¡±


    ¡°Big Brother, Qing¡¯er is someone I like! You can just say it in front of her!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er was about to put a few good words for herself, but when she saw that the two brothers were about to be at loggerheads, she quickly said with a smile, ¡°You two chat, you two chat! I¡¯ll go brew the tea!¡±


    After she said that, she bowed and took her leave with Xiao Lian.


    The two brothers sat down and there was a cold silence for a moment.


    ¡°Big Brother, how did you manage to find this ce?¡± Shi Fengming asked with a forced smile as he unconsciously brushed his own clothes.


    Shi Fengju said nonchntly, ¡°Didn¡¯t you want me to find you? You clearly know that I would be in Hangzhou this time of the year. Our family has a lot of businesses here, yet you¡¯re here now. And here I thought that you were waiting for me to visit you!¡±


    Shi Fengming froze for a moment. Some thoughts seemed to emerge from his head, but he unconsciously pushed them to the back of his mind.


    Nevertheless, Shi Fengju could see through him. He raised his eyebrow and said with a faint smile, ¡°You probably wouldn¡¯t be in Hangzhou of your own ord, right? It was Su Qing¡¯er, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    Shi Fengming felt ufortable in his heart, so he could only say with a nod, ¡°Qing¡¯er said that she wanted to take a look at how lively the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce was and what new goods there would be. Therefore, we came here...¡±


    Shi Fengju responded, ¡°Is that so? I thought that she wanted to meet me by chance so that the two of you could follow me back to Qingzhou! You don¡¯t have to deny it. I overheard the conversation at the door!¡±


    Shi Fengming¡¯s eyes lit up, ¡°Big Brother...¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯d better give up on her!¡± Shi Fengju interrupted him without holding back. ¡°Don¡¯t you know about Second Uncle and Second Aunt¡¯s temper? Besides, that woman isn¡¯t easy to deal with. If she really gets married into our family, it would definitely cause chaos in the family!¡±


    ¡°Qing¡¯er wouldn¡¯t! She isn¡¯t that kind of woman!¡± Upon hearing that Shi Fengju was belittling Su Qing¡¯er, Shi Fengming retorted as if he was a pissed animal.


    Shi Fengju said coldly, ¡°If she instigated you to challenge Second Uncle and Second Aunt with your death, how can she still be a good woman? Would a good woman say such things?¡±


    Shi Fengming was at a loss for words. He said after a moment, ¡°If Father and Mother cannot tolerate her, must she wait for death? She said that because of desperation. She¡¯s true to me and just can¡¯t bear to leave me!¡±


    ¡°True to you? I think not!¡± Shi Fengju smiled slightly and asked him, ¡°I remember that when you left home, you had 80,000 silvers. I wonder how much you¡¯ve left! I suppose there isn¡¯t much left, right? Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have urged you to go home!¡±


    ¡°Big Brother!¡± Shi Fengming¡¯s heart leaped and he became distraught all of a sudden. He said with a sunken expression, ¡°Just take it as we didn¡¯t meet today! Big Brother, please go back! Qing¡¯er and I won¡¯t go back! I don¡¯t believe that I can¡¯t carve out a niche for myself!¡±


    Shi Fengming had already nned long ago that he would find and stay in a small town with Su Qing¡¯er. They would purchase a building and open a shop. Even if they weren¡¯t rich, they would still have the basic necessities. However, because Su Qing¡¯er wanted to venture around, he naturally couldn¡¯t ignore her request. Hence, the two of them had yet to settle down after going from south to north for thest two years.


    Shi Fengju was right, the silvers that he had brought with him were almost depleted. Out of 80,000 silvers, he was only left with around 14,000 silvers. Although it wasn¡¯t much, it wasn¡¯t little either. He could still settle down in a small town. He was thinking that when the two of them had kids after three or four years, his parents might change their minds and approve of them upon seeing his kids and the fact that he had gone through thick and thin with Qing¡¯er!


    He nned to let Su Qing¡¯er know about his ns, but had yet to do so. Since Shi Fengju had stabbed him with relentless words, he decided that he would be frank with Su Qing¡¯er. He believed that she would definitely agree with him.


    Shi Fengju looked at him without uttering a word.


    Xiao Lian and Su Qing¡¯er, who had both gone to the kitchen to boil water, were about to head back after doing so. Su Qing¡¯er had made up her mind that no matter how Shi Fengju was going to mock her or coldly look at her, she had to virtuously tolerate it.


    Since they were both men and she could charm Shi Fengming, how could Shi Fengju be an exception? Given her great looks and talent to captivate men, as long as she treated Shi Fengju warmly, he would be charmed by her sooner orter as no man¡¯s heart was not made up of stone! When that happened, would she not be able to enter the Shi household with him putting in a few good words for her?


    Su Qing¡¯er had not expected that it was easy to leave the house but difficult to go back. Two female servants guarded the gate without a sound and blocked her way.


    Su Qing¡¯er was slightly displeased and said with a slight smile, ¡°Nannies, please move aside. Second Young Master told me to serve him tea!¡±


    One of them cast a cold nce at her and said expressionlessly, ¡°Our Young Master has instructed us that nobody can disturb them. Please go back. You aren¡¯t needed to serve them!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er got angry right away. This servant was being unreasonable!


    ¡°This seems to be my ce. Don¡¯t you two think that this is too much? Is the Shi Family so unruly?¡±


    The two female servants scoffed, and one of them said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s not up to you to say whether the Shi Family is unruly. Just look at your own status! Are you fit to even say that? Is this your ce? Did you buy or rent it? Who are you to our Second Young Master to dare say such things!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er was furious. She couldn¡¯t do anything about them. If she were to really get into a serious fight with those two female servants, her image would be shattered, and she wouldn¡¯t be able to dream about leaving a favorable impression on Shi Fengju. If she wanted to barge in by force, it would have been simple if the ones guarding were males. After all, she was Shi Fengming¡¯s woman. Which young manservants would dare toy a finger on her? However, those two female servants clearly didn¡¯t allow her to have it her way.


    ¡°I was being rude! Please forgive me!¡¯ Su Qing¡¯er swallowed her anger and bowed at the two of them. When she saw that they were still pulling a long face without batting an eyelid or looking at her, she knew that there was no way for her to enter. She forced a smile and left with Xiao Lian.


    In the room, Shi Fengju said, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Second Brother to be so uncaring. Don¡¯t you even care about how Second Uncle and Second Aunt are getting by?¡±


    Shi Fengming showed a painful expression and said with a long sigh, ¡°They¡¯re naturally doing well. I¡¯m an unfilial son. However, if they can ept Qing¡¯er...¡±


    ¡°How can you say that?¡± Shi Fengju didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry in anger. ¡°You¡¯ll only be filial to them if they ept that woman? Otherwise, you won¡¯t admit that they¡¯re your parents? If you really think that way, you¡¯re truly an unfilial son! Second Aunt is always thinking of you. She bathes her face in tears and is always unhappy. During the New Year, the concubines and servants are always trembling with fear, frightened that she would vent her anger on them. Her anger has be worse, and she has never stopped thinking about you! Even though Second Uncle scolds you, how can he not miss you? Every time there is a piece of news about you, regardless of whether it is true or not, nobody can bear to see the anticipation on their faces! Second Uncle loved to go out with the other elders in Qingzhou City. However, he doesn¡¯t do that now. He only moves back and forth in his room because he misses you! How can you be so cruel to them just because of Su Qing¡¯er!¡±


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 Chapter 265

    ¡°Big Brother.¡± Shi Fengming felt sad upon hearing that but said with a bitter smile, ¡°I know that I¡¯ve let them down. However, I really like Qing¡¯er! She¡¯s a nicedy, and she¡¯s not at fault for being a courtesan. Big Brother, help us, will you? I¡¯ll be grateful to you if you do so! My parents wouldn¡¯t need to be so worried too!¡±


    Shi Fengju replied with a sigh, ¡°Why are you so stubborn about going down the wrong path? I know you don¡¯t love to hear this, but Su Qing¡¯er isn¡¯t a nicedy. I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re so foolish!¡±


    ¡°I know that you have prejudice against her, Big Brother!¡± Although Shi Fengming wouldn¡¯t listen to his brother, he did not get angry at him either. However, his stubbornness that prated deep into his bones made Shi Fengju so furious that he didn¡¯t know where to vent his anger.


    ¡°Big Brother, if nobody in the household can ept Qing¡¯er, I won¡¯t go back with you!¡± Shi Fengming saw that his brother had a cold expression and was slightly disappointed. ¡°I¡¯m at fault for letting Father and Mother worry about me. I¡¯ll write a letter to them. Big Brother, please pass it to them so that they can be at ease!¡±


    ¡°If you truly miss them, then go back quickly!¡± Shi Fengju said faintly, ¡°If you want to send a letter to them, ask someone else to do it. I won¡¯t help you do that. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t Second Uncle and Second Aunt me me for not bringing you back?¡±


    Shi Fengming felt happy upon hearing that. ¡°Big Brother, you won¡¯t make things difficult for me?¡±


    Shi Fengju snorted and said, ¡°I can¡¯t say for sure! I can¡¯t simply stand aside and watch you get into deep trouble. You should think about the fact that you¡¯ve always been amodating that woman, as well as everything that you¡¯ve done for her. Although you said that she treats you well, I clearly don¡¯t see that! I only hear her having a stomach full of schemes and putting you in a difficult situation!¡±


    Shi Fengju didn¡¯t care whether Shi Fengming had returned to his senses. He got up and said, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. I need to go now! I stay in a vi at the foot of a hill where a pagoda stands. If you¡¯ve thought it through, find me there!¡±


    Without uttering a word, Shi Fengming got up and sent him off. When he saw that his brother had gotten onto the horse carriage, he told him, ¡°Big Brother, take care!¡±


    Shi Fengju turned his head indifferently and his gaze fell on Su Qing¡¯er, who had somehow stuck herself to Shi Fengming¡¯s side with a smile. His expression then turned cold.


    ¡°Zhan Huan, take two people and keep a good eye on this ce. Immediately report to me if there are any movements. If Second Young Master goes missing again, you¡¯ll be waiting to receive punishment!¡± Shi Fengju naturally wouldn¡¯t let Shi Fengming off easily.


    In the house, Su Qing¡¯er pulled Shi Fengming¡¯s arm gently and in a refined manner. She went back to the room with him with a slight smile and sat down before she served him a small cup of tea. ¡°Eldest Young Master and you are truly brothers, to have spoken so much! Although he looks cold on the outside, he has a good heart and has never given us a hard time. If you meet him again next time, you have to be more polite!¡±


    Shi Fengming held onto her hands and smiled slightly. He said to himself: You¡¯re still praising him? He can¡¯t wait for you to disappear right away!


    When Su Qing¡¯er saw that Shi Fengming did not answer her, she understood and said with a smile, ¡°What did Eldest Young Master say to you? Is it convenient for you to tell me?¡±


    ¡°Qing¡¯er,¡± Shi Fengming did not answer her question and suddenly became very serious, ¡°Let¡¯s leave Hangzhou tomorrow, shall we? We¡¯ll find a small town with simple and honest people, buy a house to settle down, open a small shop, and live a good life there. When we have children in the next three or four years, we¡¯ll return home and I¡¯m sure my parents will ept us then for the sake of the children!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er was stupefied for a moment. Her goal had always been the Shi Household, and not any small town with simple and honest people! Although she had eloped with Shi Fengming back then, she had only been making a concession in order to make progress.


    She didn¡¯t believe that Second Old Master Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi were really willing to part with their son, who had left home and suffered hardship because of her. As his parents, how could they not be worried and feel sorry for him? In the past two years, Shi Fengming had wanted to write back to the Shi family. However, she stopped it by reasoning with him that if their whereabouts were exposed, she would no longer be able to be with him. She wanted them to be on edge and be ill at ease. After two years of suffering, she didn¡¯t believe that they would still have a heart of stone! More importantly, the 80,000 silvers that Shi Fengming had taken out was almost all spent. He still wanted to settle down in a small down and open a shop? She, Su Qing¡¯er, would never want to live a rough life, worry about earning a few coins every day, and have to calcte every time they had to go to a restaurant!


    Time and tide waited for no man. Her youthful age and delicate face would slowly wear away every day. What could she still use to keep Shi Fengming¡¯s heart as time went on? As long as she entered the Shi Household and became a concubine, wouldn¡¯t she gain great wealth easily? Since Shi Fengming doted on her a lot, she would not feel grieved! That kind of life was what she pursued, and not the one that Shi Fengming had nned!


    ¡°Qing¡¯er, you don¡¯t want to?¡± Shi Fengming started getting tense. He wanted to prove to Shi Fengju that he had good foresight and that Qing¡¯er truly loved him! Therefore, she mustn¡¯t decline him.


    ¡°Why would I be unwilling?¡± Knowing that she had not said something for a long time, she quickly smiled and said softly, ¡°I¡¯m willing to go anywhere as long as I¡¯m with you! However, don¡¯t you miss your parents? I feel guilty when I think that your parents are missing you at home over these two years! Another three or four years... Second Young Master, this won¡¯t do! I can¡¯t bear to suffer like this!¡±


    When Su Qing¡¯er recalled Shi Fengju¡¯s cold, disdainful gaze and those two female servants¡¯ rude attitude, she still felt grieved and her tears streamed down right away.


    ¡°Qing¡¯er, Qing¡¯er.¡± Shi Fengming embraced her in a flurry. ¡°Qing¡¯er, don¡¯t cry! Qing¡¯er, what should I do?¡±


    ¡°Your elder brother will definitely persuade you to go back. Second Young Master, let¡¯s go back with him! As long as he can help us put in a few good words, they will definitely forgive us since you are their son!¡±


    Shi Fengming¡¯s lips moved. He had indeed missed his parents, and he was unable to bear Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s constant pestering. He finally said with a sigh, ¡°If my elder brother can help put in some good words for us, we¡¯ll naturally have more assurance! However, that temper of his... He has a deep prejudice against you. How would he put in good words for us easily!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er quickly replied, ¡°You¡¯ve also said it¡¯s prejudice. That¡¯s because he doesn¡¯t know me well. Otherwise, he definitely wouldn¡¯t think that way! Second Young Master, let¡¯s be more proactive. He won¡¯t always be heartless, will he?¡±


    Shi Fengming couldn¡¯t help but feel moved, thinking that what she had said was right. His elder brother had said that because he didn¡¯t know Qing¡¯er well. If he understood her, he would definitely see her good points, just like him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s give it a try then. We¡¯ll go to his vi to visit him tomorrow.¡± Shi Fengming nodded his head.


    Su Qing¡¯er was very happy and quickly nodded her head in agreement. She was a little nervous and asked him how she should be dressed, how she shouldb, what head ornaments she should wear, and how she should behave there. She also asked about Shi Fengju¡¯s temper and preference.


    Upon seeing her eyes looking at him brightly, Shi Fengming looked nervous, cautious, and full of anticipation. She was pitiful and lovely, thus he could not help but say gently with a smile after a sigh, ¡°My elder brother is actually pretty amiable. You don¡¯t have to be too nervous. Just behave as you usually do! You just have to stay by my side. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll protect you!¡±


    ¡°Yes! Second Young Master, I know you treat me the best!¡± Su Qing¡¯er was full of smiles and leaned against him gently.


    When it was almost noon the next day, the two of them had finally finished packing up and they left together.


    Shi Fengming had set his mind on wanting to meet Shi Fengju to ask him for help. As a result, he had woken up very early and urged Su Qing¡¯er to hurry up.


    However, Su Qing¡¯er had a smile on her face and was unhurried. She constantly told him to remain calm. Su Qing¡¯er was thinking that since Shi Fengju had to go to the Chamber of Commerce for business, she wanted to be at his vi when he had already left. If Shi Fengju happened not to go out and didn¡¯t allow her to go in, then wouldn¡¯t she be left with no way in? If he wasn¡¯t there, Shi Fengming would be the master. Nobody there would dare to go against him! As for Shi Fengming, she was pretty confident about him.


    After arriving at the Shi Family¡¯s vi, Shi Fengming felt distracted as he looked at the pink walls, red door, and vaguely visible roof ridge hidden in the quiet shade. He hade to this ce with Shi Fengju three years ago. Now that he hade again, he was both master and a guest!


    When he went forward to knock on the door, an old servant opened the door in a daze and actually recognized Shi Fengming. The old servant stuttered, ¡°This must be Second... Second Young Master?¡±


    Shi Fengming immediately felt friendly and said with a smile as he raised an eyebrow, ¡°It¡¯s me! He he... you still recognize me!¡±


    ¡°Although I¡¯m old, my memory is still good! Second Young Master, pleasee in. Eldest Young Master has gone out in the morning and will only be back at night! Oh, Young Mistress is present. I¡¯ll ask someone to inform her!¡±


    The old servant smiled and invited him in. When his gazended on Su Qing¡¯er, he was slightly startled.


    Su Qing¡¯er had gone through hardships since she was young. Once she saw a man, no matter how old or young he was, she would subconsciously show her flirtatious demeanor. She smiled gently at the old servant. She thought that she was smiling in a reserved manner, but that old servant turned slightly rigid and turned away unnaturally.


    The old servant had wanted to ask whether she was the Second Young Mistress. Upon seeing the situation, he kept quiet. Since the Second Young Master did not take the initiative to introduce her as that, then she clearly wasn¡¯t. Thus, he pretended as if he didn¡¯t see anything.


    Shi Fengming¡¯s eyes lit up and said happily, ¡°My elder brother is already married? When was it!¡±


    The old servant was stunned when he heard that. He simply forgot his social rank and stared at Shi Fengming. Second Young Master didn¡¯t even know when Eldest Young Master had gotten married? He was a gatekeeper in this vi, so it was natural that he didn¡¯t know much about what happened in the Shi Household.


    Shi Fengming was quick to react and his face turned red before he said with an awkward smile, ¡°I¡¯ve left home for two years due to some matters. I didn¡¯t know he had gotten married! Which family is my sister-inw from? Is her surname Gu or Sang?¡±


    The old servant came to a realization and quickly answered with a smile, ¡°I see! Young Mistress is pretty nice, though I don¡¯t know what her surname is!¡±


    Shi Fengming was thinking that it was right too, so he smiled and didn¡¯t ask further. Afterwhich, he followed a servant in and waited in the parlor.

 Chapter 266

    The head servant came over not long after and paid respects to them with a smile. After he served them tea, he said, ¡°Young Master isn¡¯t back yet, and I¡¯ve already sent someone to inform Young Mistress! Did you bring any baggage, Second Young Master? Would you like to have a rest first?¡±


    Shi Fengming replied with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m staying elsewhere, so you don¡¯t have to. I¡¯ll wait for my eldest brother toe back. My sister-inw doesn¡¯t have to see us now. We¡¯re fine seeing them tonight instead!¡±


    Regardless of whether his sister-inw was his cousin or the youngdy of the Sang Family, Shi Fengming did not want to meet her alone as it felt awkward to him.


    Who knew that Su Qing¡¯er would nudge him with her elbow and say with a smile, ¡°Actually, we¡¯re not outsiders. Young Mistress is probably bored. If she¡¯s willing, we can pay her a visit now and chat with her to relieve her boredom!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er felt regretful. If she knew that it would be so easy to enter the vi, she would have brought her baggage over! Shi Fengming was also an inflexible person. Why did he refuse? Wouldn¡¯t their chance increase if they stayed here with Shi Fengju and his wife?


    When Shi Fengming heard Su Qing¡¯er say that, he smiled towards the head servant. ¡°Qing¡¯er is right. Since we¡¯re all one family, there is no need to be reserved. Please inform my sister-inw that we¡¯re here!¡±


    The head servant shot a weird nce at them and bowed in agreement.


    ¡°Why do you want to meet my sister-inw?¡± Shi Fengming frowned slightly.


    Su Qing¡¯er replied with a smile in annoyance, ¡°You really don¡¯t have a brain! If your eldest brother brings her out, it¡¯s clear that he treats her very well! Young Mistress is also ady, so I think she¡¯ll be able to empathize with our situation. If she helps us put a few good words in front of him, wouldn¡¯t that save us a lot of trouble?¡±


    ¡°Right, right!¡± Shi Fengming became delighted. ¡°You¡¯ve thought so thoroughly! However, if my sister-inw doesn¡¯t have a good temper and says anything bad, you mustn¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er shook her head. ¡°Why would I? Now that we have to bring up a request to someone else, it is inevitable that we have to put ourselves down. I still know such a principle!¡±


    Shi Fengming was deeply moved, ¡°It¡¯ll be hard on you!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er shook her head with a smile.


    ¡°What? Second Young Master is here?¡± Sang Wan was shocked. Wasn¡¯t he in hiding? Why did he take the initiative to visit them?


    ¡°Yes, the Second Young Master also brought ady. If you¡¯re free, they are willing to pay you a visit first.¡± The head servant didn¡¯t know how to address Su Qing¡¯er, so she addressed her ambiguously.


    ¡°Ady?¡± Sang Wan instantly understood and silently sighed. It was no wonder Shi Fengming would take the initiative to go out. It must have been Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s idea. Su Qing¡¯er was probably bent on entering the Shi household.


    As someone who sympathized with Zhou Jingyi, Sang Wan did not have any good impression of Su Qing¡¯er, who had seduced someone¡¯s husband and made him abandon his parents and wife so that he could elope with her. The day before, their meeting at the West Lake made her dislike her a lot. Would she still meet her at this moment?


    She recalled how furious Shi Fengju was when he came back the day before, with a very ugly expression. If he knew that Shi Fengming had brought Su Qing¡¯er to visit him, that anger would definitely go above his head. The gatekeeper should have informed her before letting them in! However, she felt that she couldn¡¯t me the gatekeeper. Shi Fengming was a master, so how could he stop him?


    ¡°Tell them that the weather is warm and I¡¯m not adapted to it, so I won¡¯t be meeting them! Treat them well and quickly send someone to inform Eldest Young Master!¡± Sang Wan instructed with a light sigh.


    Since they were already here, could they even be chased out? After all, Shi Fengming was her brother-inw. As a sister-inw, she could do no such thing!


    The head servant did as told. After she had sent someone to call Shi Fengju back, she personally went to inform Shi Fengming.


    Shi Fengming did not mind whether he was going to meet Sang Wan or not at first. But after he heard Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s words, he looked forward to meeting Sang Wan even more than her. Therefore, he felt disappointed upon hearing the head servant¡¯s words. He asked, ¡°May I ask if my sister-inw¡¯s surname is Gu?¡±


    If it was Gu Fangzi, she could be considered someone familiar. If he insisted on meeting her, Gu Fangzi wouldn¡¯t refuse either. If it was the youngdy from the Sang Family, then it was better to wait for his eldest brother toe back!


    The head servant said with her head lowered, ¡°Young Mistress¡¯ surname is Sang. Second Young Master, you don¡¯t know that?¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s the youngdy of the Sang Family!¡± Shi Fengming nodded his head and said while waving his hand, ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll wait here. You may leave to do your thing!¡±


    The head servant took her leave and left a servant to serve them.


    Su Qing¡¯er looked outside and said with a smile, ¡°The view in this vi is pretty good. Second Young Master, since we will be waiting idly, why don¡¯t we take a walk outside?¡±


    Shi Fengming, who was feeling bored, nodded his head and got up with Su Qing¡¯er. When he saw the servant following, he said impatiently, ¡°I know the way, so don¡¯t follow me!¡±


    The servant acknowledged respectfully and stopped in her tracks. Xiao Lian also stayed in the house.


    Shi Fengming took Su Qing¡¯er for a stroll in the garden and pointed at ces for her to see on the way. Su Qing¡¯er had never seen such a courtyard. All year long, the Shi Family might not even stay for a few days, yet every view with each step was exquisite. The exotic flowers and verdant nts and different shapes of freshwater stones conformed with one another, decorating the view from the pavilion corridors. It was also particrly quiet and secluded. From time to time, one could see the flowing of water, meandering into a reservoir. There were brightly-colored water lilies and goldfish swimming within, and mandarin ducks with vivid feathers among the water nts at the shore, adding on to the freshness of the beautiful scenery.


    After passing through the moon gate, a hedge of wisteria appeared before her eyes. It was now the season when wisteria flowers bloomed. The wisteria flowers, which were a foot long, bloomedyer overyer and were very beautiful and enchanting. They hung on the verdant branches in an eye-catching manner.


    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful here!¡± Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s eyes lit up and ran into the hedge while lifting the corners of her skirts. She was full of smiles and couldn¡¯t help stretching out to pick the flowers.


    As Shi Fengming stood in the corridor, he watched her with a smile.


    ¡°Hey, stop! Yes you, the one in front of the wisteria! Who are you? How can you pick the flowers here as you please?¡± When Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s hands reached the flowers, she heard a voice from up ahead.


    Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s spirits dampened and she picked the string of purple flowers in a fit of pique. Then, she looked up at that woman with a provocative sneer.


    How dare a servant who was just in charge of the garden shout at her? How could she simply take it lying down?


    Who knew that before Su Qing¡¯er could show her sneer, her face turned rigid.


    That servant recognized her and cried out in surprise, ¡°It¡¯s you!¡± That servant was Madame Qin.


    Sang Wan loved the purple wisteria flowers. Therefore, Madame Qin had always asked the servants to take good care of it. When she passed by today and saw such an audacious person who dared to extend her hands to pick the flowers, she shouted at the person to stop her. However, she hadn¡¯t expected that the world would be so small!


    ¡°It¡¯s you!¡± Su Qing¡¯er naturally recognized her and was stunned.


    Madame Qin shouted angrily, ¡°Why is an improper woman like you in our house! Our Young Mistress loves these purple wisteria flowers! What guts you have!¡±


    ¡°What happened here?¡± When Shi Fengming heard the argument, he quickly walked over. Upon hearing Madame Qin speaking rudely, he reprimanded her with a frown, ¡°What¡¯s your job in this household? Clean that mouth of yours, and howe it¡¯s you!¡± Shi Fengming also saw Madame Qin.


    At this time, Madame Qin felt that something was not right, so she replied to Shi Fengming, ¡°Are you a friend of our Young Master? This woman simply doesn¡¯t know how to appreciate what¡¯s good. How can she pick the flowers here at will? She¡¯s indeed an uncouth thing who isn¡¯t upright!¡±


    When Shi Fengming saw that Su Qing¡¯er was feeling grieved and awkward, he couldn¡¯t help but get furious, ¡°Quiet! Isn¡¯t it just a flower? It has already been picked, so what¡¯s the deal?¡±


    As Shi Fengming said that, he went forward and deliberately plucked another string of flowers.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Madame Qin was not someone who was amodating. Upon seeing Shi Fengming¡¯s actions, she became even more furious. Without being polite at all, she went forward and pped his hand away before blocking his way. She said with a sneer, ¡°You seem to look and behave in a dignified manner, so I thought that you were at least refined. I didn¡¯t expect that I¡¯d misjudged you! How can there be a good person with this woman! Weren¡¯t you taught that at someone else¡¯s house, you need to follow the rules as a guest?¡±


    ¡°That is absurd!¡± Su Qing¡¯er said angrily, ¡°A guest? Open your eyes wide and see. Second Young Master is not a guest. He¡¯s a master of this house! So what if I pull out the whole tree, let alone pick a flower? As a mere servant, you dared to go against your masters? I think you¡¯re the one who doesn¡¯t know the rules!¡±


    As if Madame Qin had heard a big joke, she broke out in a peal ofughter and sneered. ¡°Master? After Young Master and Young Mistress came here, I¡¯ve always been serving them. If you two are the masters, what are they? Why did Young Master and Young Mistress not inform me if that was the case?¡±


    When Su Qing¡¯er was about to speak, Shi Fengming couldn¡¯t bear hearing anymore. He pulled her and said fiercely, ¡°That¡¯s enough, Qing¡¯er. Don¡¯t stoop down to her level! Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Shi Fengming¡¯s face had turned red and he couldn¡¯t be more ashamed. He had never been humiliated like that ever since he was young. However, his own family¡¯s servant had mocked him in his own house. He suddenly had a feeling that he didn¡¯t seem to belong from the Shi Family anymore, as they no longer recognized him! He felt somewhat sad when he realized that.


    ¡°You two know your ce indeed!¡± Madame Qin said with a snort, ¡°Know some rules. Don¡¯t treat yourself as if you¡¯re not an outsider everywhere you go!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Her words had made Shi Fengming feel unbearable, and he stared at her fiercely. Without taking it lying down, Madame Qin red back at him with a sneer.


    Su Qing¡¯er couldn¡¯t take this situation anymore, so she started arguing with Madame Qin again.


    ¡°Madame Qin, what¡¯s going on?¡± Someone had already informed Sang Wan about the situation. Sang Wan felt that there was going to be trouble and could not avoid showing her face even if she wanted to. She brought some servants and hurried over. She could hear Su Qing¡¯er and Madame Qin arguing very badly, while Shi Fengming remained quiet with his hands behind him.


    ¡°Young Mistress!¡± Even though Madame Qin seemed overbearing, Su Qing¡¯er used to be popr in the brothel, so she was eloquent. When she gave it her all, all sorts of unkind words spilled. Madame Qin had never encountered such a situation. Despite not being able to hold her ground, she was unwilling to concede and argued with Su Qing¡¯er. Upon hearing Sang Wan¡¯s words, she quickly went up to her with her eyes still slightly red.

 Chapter 267

    ¡°These two people came out of nowhere and wanted to pick these purple wisteria flowers. I happened to see it, so I tried to stop them. This woman refused to acknowledge her mistake. She¡¯s arrogant and even started scolding me.¡±


    When they saw Madame Qin, Shi Fengming and Su Qing¡¯er foresaw that the woman they had met yesterday was Shi Fengju¡¯s wife. As such, they were not surprised to see her. As for Sang Wan, she had also foreseen it, so she naturally wasn¡¯t surprised.


    ¡°You must be my sister-inw? I¡¯m sorry! I¡¯ve offended you! Please forgive me!¡± Shi Fengming quickly cupped his fist to greet her.


    Su Qing¡¯er also quickly went forward and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Young Mistress. Just now, I... I only said those words because I was angry. I don¡¯t mind her scolding me, but she said that the Second Young Master was an ¡®outsider¡¯ and someone who didn¡¯t know the rules. I couldn¡¯t tolerate that, so I had a dispute with her! I found these purple wisteria flowers pretty and couldn¡¯t help picking a string of them. Since I was at fault. I¡¯ll apologize too!¡± Su Qing¡¯er then gracefully bowed to Sang Wan.


    ¡°Young Mistress, it wasn¡¯t like that. This woman, she...¡±


    ¡°Madame Qin.¡± Sang Wan stopped her with a slight smile and said, ¡°It¡¯s just a string of flowers. What¡¯s done is done! Go see what the kitchen has prepared for lunch. Second Young Master will be staying here to eat today.¡±


    Madame Qin was relieved and nodded her head in agreement before she went to do what she was told.


    Sang Wan then apologized to Shi Fengming, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry. Madame Qin didn¡¯t know it was you, so she has offended you with her words! This was my fault. I told her to look after these purple wisteria flowers since they were blooming well. Who knew that she was too cautious! I also didn¡¯t expect things to be such a coincidence! I¡¯ll offer an apology to the Second Young Master, so please don¡¯t take it to heart. Miss, please don¡¯t mind that too!¡±


    Shi Fengming still felt ufortable as Sang Wan didn¡¯t make Madame Qin apologize to him and Su Qing¡¯er. However, when he saw Sang Wan apologize personally, he didn¡¯t dare to receive it, so he quickly avoided it with a smile, ¡°Sister-inw, please don¡¯t do that! I wouldn¡¯t dare to ept it! It¡¯s just a small matter. Don¡¯t mind it! We were at fault. The people here don¡¯t recognize me, so I should have asked a servant along to lead the way when I strolled around the garden!¡±


    Sang Wan quickly responded, ¡°It¡¯s a relief that you didn¡¯t take offense to that, Second Young Master! I¡¯ve already instructed someone to let everyone know that you are here. This will not happen a second time! I think you must have waited for a long time, so let¡¯s talk in the hall!¡±


    ¡°You first, Sister-inw!¡± Shi Fengming lifted his hand with a smile.


    When Su Qing¡¯er heard Sang Wan mention her, it meant that Sang Wan didn¡¯t dislike her. Thus, she went forward and said with a smile, ¡°Young Mistress, you¡¯re really polite and eloquent! I feel at ease after hearing your words! We¡¯re actually brought together by fate. Otherwise, we wouldn¡¯t have met yesterday! I felt that you were amiable, so I wanted to be closer with you so I brazenly went to borrow a cup of tea from you. If it was someone else, I wouldn¡¯t have done so! I didn¡¯t expect to meet you today! It was really rude of me yesterday, but please don¡¯t take it to heart!¡±


    ¡°It was an ident. Miss, you¡¯re too polite!¡± Sang Wan smiled.


    Su Qing¡¯er felt even more delighted upon hearing that. She quickly stepped forward and held Sang Wan¡¯s arm before praising her with a smile, ¡°I knew that you¡¯re an extremely magnanimous person! If you don¡¯t mind, why don¡¯t I apany you for a chat or relieve your boredom when you¡¯re free in the future?


    Sang Wan leaned away to the side and replied with a smile, ¡°You¡¯re a guest here. I wouldn¡¯t dare. I don¡¯t like to go out due to the hot weather, so I spend most of my days in the garden.¡±


    ¡°By the way, Second Young Master, I¡¯ve asked someone to look for my husband, but I don¡¯t know when he will return. Do you have something urgent to see him for?¡± Sang Wan turned around and asked Shi Fengming with a smile.


    She didn¡¯t want to exchange any more conventional greetings with Su Qing¡¯er.


    Shi Fengming quickly replied with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s nothing much of an urgent matter. I just came here to see my eldest brother and you! It¡¯s important that he finishes his work first. It¡¯s no different meeting him when he has the time!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief!¡± Sang Wan smiled and nodded.


    Su Qing¡¯er could also figure out that Sang Wan didn¡¯t want to get close to her. She thought that it was fine as long as Sang Wan didn¡¯t hate her. Haste didn¡¯t bring sess, so she mustn¡¯t be shortsighted. She smiled and walked together with Shi Fengming.


    They arrived at the parlour and sat down. Their conversation revolved around their daily life and they asked about each other¡¯s current situation. Shi Fengming smiled and said that he had forgotten to congratte his eldest brother and sister-inw for getting married, which Sang Wan then thanked him with a smile. Su Qing¡¯er interrupted them from time to time, but Shi Fengming was happy to see that, so Sang Wan couldn¡¯t refute and thus slightly responded.


    However, everything changed when Shi Fengju returned.


    When Shi Fengju heard from the head servant that his second brother hade with ady wearing clothes that had been carefully chosen, he understood what was going on. Then, he hurried back with an ugly expression. On the way, he gave the head servant a terrible scolding for letting that woman enter the house. The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. He instructed the head servant to go back and tell the servants to fetch water and wash the floor; whatever that woman had touched today had to be thrown away!


    The head servant had never seen him so furious before. How would he dare to have any opinions on that? He quickly agreed and felt aggrieved deep down.


    Shi Fengju was a master, and so was Shi Fengming. Could he not allow a master to bring in a woman? Even if he had stopped them, would the Second Young Master listen to him?


    The head servant secretly peeked at Shi Fengju and thought: Even though Young Mistress is present, it isn¡¯t convenient for her to stop them as well, let alone a servant like me. But the Young Master doesn¡¯t dare to re up at her, so we servants are the unlucky ones!


    Madame Qin was also very furious and was waiting at the gate for Shi Fengju to return. Upon seeing hime back, she went forward to greet him. She managed to bring up Su Qing¡¯er and told him everything that had happened in the garden while adding detail to it.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen such a vulgar woman who speaks such harsh words. I don¡¯t know what sly means she used to seduce the Second Young Master! If Young Mistress did not arrive afterward, she would have wanted to pull out the entire purple wisteria tree! I was furious, but I tried to reason out with her. However, she mocked me and said that I was only a servant who wasn¡¯t fit to talk to her!¡±


    ¡°A servant?¡± Shi Fengju sneered. ¡°She¡¯s just a cheap person. Madame Qin, you mustn¡¯t stoop to her level!¡±


    Madame Qin¡¯s words were like adding fuel to the fire, causing Shi Fengju to rush into the hall angrily. The three of them immediately stood up.


    Shi Fengju¡¯s expression was very ugly. Su Qing¡¯er¡¯s heart tightened for no reason and she subconsciously hid behind Shi Fengming, who was also baffled. It seemed that his anger was directed towards him. However, weren¡¯t things fine the previous night? How had he offended his eldest brother again? He wanted to step forward to greet, but he couldn¡¯t say it out nor take a step forward.


    ¡°Fengju, you¡¯re back!¡± Sang Wan went forward to support him by his arm with a smile and pinched him slightly while looking at him with a tender gaze.


    Sang Wan silently sighed. She had expected Shi Fengju to get angry when he heard that Su Qing¡¯er had entered the vi, but not to this extent. What a person Su Qing¡¯er was. She managed to seduce someone else¡¯s son, causing him to desert his parents and wife and leave home. The Shi Family couldn¡¯t wait to skin her and break her bones. How dare she actuallye to visit in such a grand manner!


    ¡°Fengju, Second Young Master is here. Let¡¯s sit down and talk!¡± Sang Wan said gently.


    Shi Fengju looked at her gently and patted her hands lightly before he replied, ¡°I have something to say to my second brother. Sang Wan, you should go back to your room first.¡±


    It was good that she wouldn¡¯t be involved in the two brothers¡¯ matter. Sang wan nodded her head and answered with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave first! Fengju, speak with your brother nicely. Don¡¯t get agitated. He¡¯s your brother after all.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Shi Fengju nodded.


    Sang Wan released him with a smile and nodded her head at Shi Fengming before she took her leave with Liu Ya.


    ¡°Eldest Brother!¡± Shi Fengming said with a forced smile, ¡°You¡¯re so blessed! Sister-inw is so virtuous!¡±


    When Shi Fengming saw that his own eldest brother¡¯s expression had eased, he was secretly relieved. He admired Sang Wan. His eldest brother seldom got angry, but when he did, his expression would sink to a point where even his aunt would be afraid. He hadn¡¯t expected that not only did his eldest sister-inw dare to go forward, but she also managed to calm him down with a few words.


    Shi Fengju ignored his words and said while he stared at Su Qing¡¯er coldly, ¡°The Shi Family doesn¡¯t wee you. This is not where you cane. Leave!¡±


    Su Qing¡¯er face turned pale and she subconsciously gripped Shi Fengming¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Eldest Brother!¡± Shi Fengming became anxious.


    ¡°Leave!¡± Shi Fengju was even more furious upon seeing that. He said with a sneer, ¡°Know your ce and get lost quickly! Otherwise, I¡¯ll ask someone to throw you out! You can try me!¡±


    ¡°Eldest brother!¡± Shi Fengming, who was anxious, spread his arms out in front of Su Qing¡¯er. ¡°Qing¡¯er doesn¡¯t have any ill intentions. We¡¯re here to ask for your help. Since she¡¯s sincere, why aren¡¯t you willing to hear us out first!¡±


    ¡°Are you going to leave or not? Now that you¡¯re here, nobody can save you! Put away your sly appearance because that doesn¡¯t work on me!¡± Shi Fengju red at Su Qing¡¯er with a mocking gaze.


    Su Qing¡¯er felt even more ashamed and her hatred grew. She wished she could hide in a hole. Other people might not know what Shi Fengju¡¯s gaze meant, but she did.


    In the past, Shi Fengju had been the target who she had wanted to seduce. Unfortunately, she did not seed. Hence, she changed her target to Shi Fengming, who was naive, so was not an opponent for the most popr courtesan in the brothel. Very quickly, she was able to seize his heart.


    However, although Su Qing¡¯er had captivated Shi Fengming, she had underestimated the opposition of the Shi Family towards her. Despite Shi Fengming agreeing to take her as a concubine, Second Old Master Shi and Second Old Mistress Shi had flown into a rage. If Shi Fengju hadn¡¯t been rational and stopped them, the two of them would have asked someone to tear down the brothel!


    Afterward, the Shi Family went to get Shi Fengming a wife, which made Su Qing¡¯er anxious. Even though Shi Fengming liked her, how long could a man¡¯s sincerityst? After he had gotten a wife and beautiful concubines, he might not think of her as much. In about a year, when his wife had kids, she was afraid that she would be thrown to the back of his mind.


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