Minglan was initially taken aback, then her face lit up with joy as she repeatedly offered congratulations.
At the mention of this, Madam Wang became exhilarated, her eyebrows dancing with delight: "The good news came early, but since it was still early days, we didn’t dare announce it. Now that the pregnancy is stable, she’s returned to let the family see her. Speaking of which, Old Madam was truly overly cautious—as soon as she heard the news, she sent two capable matrons over to keep a close watch on Rulan, ensuring she eats, rests, and takes care with everything."
This was precisely what was irritating about Madam Wang—even when elders doted on her daughter, she had to put on airs instead of simply accepting the kindness. At that moment, she twisted her body and complained to Old Mrs. Sheng, saying, "Mother, really! I know you adore Ru'er, but with such actions, my in-laws might take offense. When I visited the Wen family a few days ago, I noticed Old Madam Wen didn’t look pleased!"
Hai Shi appeared somewhat embarrassed, while Minglan, quite accustomed to such scenes, lowered her head as if she hadn’t heard a thing: Although Old Madam believed in Buddhism, she was no pushover. Madam Wang had tried putting on airs before, but it usually ended with her facing harsh consequences.
Sure enough, Old Madam cast a faint glance over her daughter-in-law’s smug face, took a sip of tea, and sighed: "In the past, I too cared about saving face and didn’t like interfering in such matters. But now, thinking of Hualan’s condition, I feel that the girl’s health must come first. Even if it means being somewhat impolite to the in-laws, it can’t be helped. Ru Yatou’s temperament isn’t as steady as Hua’er’s. If she gets into arguments at the Wen family, it could either harm relations or damage her health. Better to let me play the villain!"
Recalling Hualan’s frail state, Madam Wang’s eyes welled up, and she bowed her head in silence. Truth be told, Old Madam Wen was no easy character either, but the Sheng family had strong backing, and their son was wholeheartedly devoted to Rulan. With neither soft nor hard power to compete, the Wen family had no choice but to quiet down.
Old Madam set down her tea bowl and spoke earnestly to her daughter-in-law: "You are blessed with children and grandchildren. Now that Hualan has two sons to rely on, she can finally catch her breath. As for the other girls, let’s not mention them. Rulan was raised by your own hands. I’m getting old and may overlook things—you should guide her more in daily life!"
"After all, she is someone else’s daughter-in-law now. She shouldn’t run back to her maternal home all the time, or others will say our Sheng family is overbearing. She must be considerate and respectful toward her husband—never put on a face as if she’s done him a favor, unless she doesn’t want to live peacefully in the future! She should be even more gentle and tolerant toward her mother-in-law and sisters-in-law. She must endure when necessary! Don’t act as if she’s suffered some great injustice over trivial matters. Which daughter-in-law hasn’t gone through this? Is she made of gold and jade? I don’t think the fifth son-in-law is cold-hearted. If Rulan doesn’t overstep, even if he prospers in the future, he will treat her well." Old Mrs. Sheng’s tone wasn’t particularly harsh, but every word struck at the heart of the matter, both directly and indirectly, hitting Madam Wang like blows to the chest. Choking on her words, she couldn’t utter a single response.
"What Mother says is right. I’ve taken note of it all and will speak properly with Ru’er later," Madam Wang forced out after a long pause, her neck stiff.
Hai Shi lowered her head, imitating Minglan’s example, and solemnly began counting the tea leaves in her bowl.Old Madam saw Madam Wang's face turn ashen and felt about seventy to eighty percent satisfied. She then shifted the tone of the conversation: "If we are at fault in etiquette, even the greatest reason loses three parts of its weight! But if Rulan fulfills all proprieties, then no matter what misconduct the in-laws commit, the Sheng family is not to be trifled with!" As she spoke, she grew somewhat angry herself. How could she not feel heartache for her beloved eldest granddaughter suffering? But after all, that was considered marrying up. If even those marrying down had to endure humiliation, the Sheng family would become a laughingstock.
When it comes to in-laws, equality is best. It's not as if it's a fraudulent marriage—no one should have to swallow their pride.
By the time Minglan counted the tea leaves for the third time, she stepped in to change the subject. Turning to Hai Shi, she said, "Sister-in-law, when are you planning to hold Huijie's full-month celebration? I've been waiting eagerly for so long."
Hai Shi, sharp and perceptive, immediately smiled and replied, "When I gave birth to the girl, my pregnancy condition was poor. Mother, being considerate, decided to hold a double full-month celebration for Hai Shi. This way, whether meeting relatives or attending banquets, both Huijie and I will have more energy."
Madam Wang nodded, casting a satisfied glance at her daughter-in-law, then turned to Minglan and said, "That's exactly right. By then, your eldest sister will have finished her month of confinement, Rulan will have stabilized her pregnancy, and we can all gather as a family."
Minglan glanced at Old Madam seated at the head of the room, who was impassively fiddling with dried tangerine peels on a plate, a faint trace of mockery at the corner of her lips. Suppressing a laugh, Minglan said to Madam Wang, "As expected of Madam, with broad experience and thoughtful considerations. We juniors have much to learn." Her beautiful eyes gazed at Madam Wang, her words sincere and expression genuine. This was a skill Minglan had long mastered—even if Madam Wang said the most absurd things, she could blink without hesitation and express one hundred percent agreement.
Madam Wang lightly covered her vermilion lips and, to appear humble, changed the topic: "Speaking of your eldest sister, I went to see her a few days ago. Though she's thin, her spirits are quite good."
"That's a relief. When I saw eldest sister at the third-day bathing ceremony, I felt her clothes were hanging loose on her," Minglan said with concern, wondering if that 'clever plan' had worked.
Unable to contain her pride, Madam Wang said delightedly, "Ha! Now that Madam Yuan has her hands full, your eldest sister's days are much better. She even mentioned missing you. If you have time, why not go visit her?"
"Her hands full? What happened in the Yuan family?" Minglan's heart skipped a beat, feeling both excited and uneasy.
Just as Madam Wang was about to speak, Old Mrs. Sheng coughed heavily, snapping her back to reality. She realized it was inappropriate to discuss other families' elders in front of the younger generation. Hai Shi, ever tactful, immediately interjected with a smile, "It's nothing much. It's just that a while ago, Lord Yuan, the Earl of Zhongqin, welcomed a new concubine into the household. Madam Yuan thought the newcomer didn't understand the rules and couldn't properly attend to the Earl's daily needs, so she's been busy teaching her a thing or two." See? The same story, but what a difference in delivery! Madam Wang, one is never too old to learn.
Minglan acted as if hearing it for the first time, slowly responding, "Oh..." Yes!
Though it was rather wicked to thrust a concubine between a couple, but every man for himself, and the devil take the hindmost. That old woman had tormented her Hualan so much, she'd almost stuffed a whole women's volleyball team into Hualan's quarters. Now let her taste her own medicine. Serves her right! Minglan felt not a shred of guilt.
"...Madam Yuan is truly virtuous," Minglan said, her eyes pure and innocent.Old Mrs. Sheng glanced at her young granddaughter with a knowing half-smile, causing Minglan to suddenly feel a pang of guilt. Her cheeks flushed red as she lowered her head.
After being carried onto the daybed by his wet nurse, Quange had been playing with an ancient jade thumb ring strung on a red cord around his neck. He first tried inserting one chubby finger—too loose. Then two fingers—still too loose. Finally, he shoved his entire little fist through, only to find his hand stuck! The smooth jade didn't hurt much, but as Quange waved his arm frantically, the ring refused to come off. He then raised his trapped fist and burrowed into Old Madam's embrace, seeking rescue.
Old Mrs. Sheng had no choice but to coax him while gently working the ring off. Just then, a maid announced from outside: "The Master and Third Young Master have arrived."
All the women in the hall except Old Madam rose simultaneously, smoothing their skirts to pay respects as Sheng Hong and Changfeng entered one after another. At that moment, Quange was babbling against Old Madam's shoulder, stretching out his short arms toward Sheng Hong while chirping happily.
The middle-aged, portly Sheng Hong felt his heart melt at the sight of his little grandson. After paying respects to Old Madam, he smilingly reached out to take Quange, settling on the daybed's side seat to bounce the chubby toddler on his knee.
"Gwan-pa!" the little fatty lisped, expertly reaching for his grandfather's beard.
"Yes! My precious!" Sheng Hong beamed, indulging the tiny hand tugging at his facial hair.
Old Madam still held the thumb ring, watching the pair's exaggerated reunion with amused exasperation. "You heartless little rascal!" she scolded laughingly.
Sheng Hong chuckled while holding Quange, who enthusiastically smeared saliva over half his grandfather's wrinkled face. Madam Wang observed, "They say grandparents dote most on grandchildren—how true indeed."
Mindful of the younger generation present, Sheng Hong eventually handed Quange back to his wet nurse after some play. Old Madam told Hai Shi, "This restless one won't settle without outdoor play. Since it's sunny today, take him out for awhile longer."
Hai Shi responded softly. The clever little chubby boy in the wet nurse's arms seemed to understand—the moment the nurse bent down, he kicked his legs and landed steadily on the floor, skipping joyfully outside followed by three or five maids and nannies.
Hai Shi looked somewhat flustered as she hurriedly curtseyed. "This child has no manners..."
"Never mind!" Sheng Hong waved dismissively while smiling toward the doorway. "Boys ought to be sturdy when young. Whether pursuing decades of study or military training later, all depends on a robust constitution."
"Exactly," Old Madam agreed, though she deliberately added, "With such a strong body, when his father canes him someday, we needn't worry! Unlike his useless Sixth Aunt who couldn't even endure a palm caning!"
"Grandmother!" Minglan exclaimed in embarrassment, "That... that was only once! Must you still...?!"
Amid the room's laughter, Hai Shi curtseyed and withdrew. Everyone reseated according to seniority: Sheng Hong and Madam Wang on either side of the daybed, Minglan and Changfeng facing each other.
"What about Sixth Son-in-Law?" Old Madam asked between recovering breaths after laughing.Sheng Hong was about to stroke his beard, but only found a messy bird's nest tangled by his grandson's hands, so he changed to smoothing it instead: "He spoke with me for a while in the study before heading to the Five Military Commissions. With the Emperor away from the palace these past two days, morning court is canceled, but there's no shortage of official duties."
Minglan looked at her father. Despite having skipped work early, his expression remained one of loyal devotion to the sovereign. Playing along perfectly, she immediately added: "Both Empress Dowagers are slightly unwell and have gone to the Western Hills retreat for recuperation. His Majesty visits them every few days—such profound filial piety!"
Sheng Hong nodded with satisfaction. Among his daughters, Minglan was the most perceptive, especially adept at matching his tone.
As a seasoned official, he had merely clocked in at the Censorate in the morning and returned home upon seeing no urgent matters. After all, with the Emperor absent, nothing critical was likely to arise. Those still bustling with nonstop work at this time were mostly close confidants, heavy ministers, or favored officials—like his new sixth son-in-law who had just hurried off.
"What were you discussing earlier, Mother? I could hear laughter from afar," Sheng Hong asked cheerfully, respectfully engaging Old Madam in conversation.
Old Madam smiled and pointed at Minglan. "Matters among the sisters. Hualan misses Ming Yatou, and Ruer is mobile again now. We'll have them gather during Huijie's double-month celebration banquet."
Sheng Hong chuckled in agreement, then suddenly grew wistful. Softly, he murmured, "Speaking of which, Mo'er married earlier. Why is there still no news?"
His words noticeably chilled the room's atmosphere. Madam Wang curled her lips disdainfully and ignored the remark. Changfeng, who had been silent, suddenly looked up, his face showing a trace of concern. Old Madam glanced at the father and son and said indifferently, "Consequences follow causes. She looked down upon Ruer's blessings—what can be done?"
Madam Wang felt vindicated, while Sheng Hong could only sigh deeply. After observing him for a moment, Old Madam's heart softened, and she comforted him gently: "You are a good father who has fulfilled your duties. Mo Yatou chose her own path—one she fought for desperately, even at the cost of her parents' and family's burdens. Now... she has no one to blame."
Minglan bowed her head in silence. She had heard about Mo Lan's situation—not particularly good, but not terrible either. While lacking the sweetness of an affectionate couple, she hadn't suffered abuse and humiliation like the tragic Yingchun.
Mo Lan was skilled at maintaining appearances and could generally manage both internally and externally—roughly falling into the category of mutual respect exceeding affection but falling short of being doted upon.
Most concubine-born daughters were like weeds; those who survived tended to be resilient. Even the cherished eldest daughter Hualan had endured hardships—how much more privileged could concubine-born daughters be? Perhaps without Consort Lin's shelter and misguided guidance, Mo Lan might even carve out her own path.
Want to act spoiled, willful, stubborn, or temperamental? Sorry, unless your background is as solid as granite and you have unwavering family support. How many ancient women achieved perfect marriages? The ideal standard was mutual respect: I manage your concubines and children, you provide for the family and maintain our social standing—partners getting through life together.
Everyone struggles through life. Minglan didn't plan to pity or sympathize with anyone.
Old Madam didn't wish to dwell on the topic further and turned to Sheng Hong: "Since you're here today, did you have something to discuss with me?"Sheng Hong remembered his purpose and couldn't help but feel cheerful again. He smiled and said, "Mother guessed correctly. Today, I'm here to share some happy news." He glanced at Changfeng and continued, "Remember when we attended the banquet at the Liu family a few days ago? Well, just a few days ago, Brother Liu suddenly came to see me, saying he's interested in forming a marriage alliance with our family."
Old Madam's eyes lit up: "Which young lady?"
Speaking of this, Sheng Hong became even more delighted: "It's the second legitimate daughter, who also happens to be the third child."
Madam Wang's mouth fell open, Minglan was also greatly surprised, and Old Madam quickly pressed: "Is this true?"
"Absolutely true! Brother Liu has always been sincere in his words." Sheng Hong stroked his beard, smiling as he looked at his son beside him, the more he looked the more he felt the young man was exceptionally handsome and distinguished.
Changfeng blushed, shifting uncomfortably in his seat before hesitantly lowering his head. Minglan, sitting opposite him on a low stool, could see from her side view that his expression was quite peculiar - seemingly bashful yet somewhat unwilling, with a faint sense of resigned acceptance.
Now, this Liu Ming, Liu Daren, was one of the few close friends who had journeyed with Sheng Hong from being classmates, to passing the imperial examinations together in the same year, to becoming colleagues, maintaining their friendship to this day. He currently held the position of Left Assistant Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, a fifth-rank official. Although his official rank was lower than Sheng Hong's, he came from the legitimate main branch of the Yanzhou Liu family - a genuine multi-generational scholarly official family, an aristocratic clan with a history spanning one to two hundred years.
Since the previous dynasty, the Yanzhou Liu family had never lacked for imperial examination graduates and provincial scholars among their clan members. They had produced two first-rank officials and three second-rank officials, with countless descendants serving as officials. Although none had reached the highest ministerial positions or become regional governors, each generation had produced officials wearing the official headdress.
It was said that the number of ancestral tablets in the Liu family ancestral hall representing official positions would be more than enough for a game of dominoes. Although their influence and prestige couldn't compare with the Hai family, they still had solid foundations. Whenever Sheng Hong spoke of the Liu family, he couldn't hide his admiration while sighing with regret.
Previously, Sheng Hong had considered having a Liu family son marry Rulan, but unfortunately the Liu family had strict rules as a large clan, and the grandfather had directly arranged the marriage. However, why would the legitimate daughter of such a family...? Minglan wasn't anxious, turning her head slightly toward Madam Wang, waiting patiently.
"How could they possibly consider Feng Ge'er worthy?" Madam Wang indeed couldn't restrain herself, asking bluntly, "Husband, you must inquire carefully. Could there be some mistake in this?"
Sheng Hong felt as if cold water had been poured over him, glaring at her in displeasure. Old Madam also slightly frowned: "The third young lady of the Liu family? I vaguely remember she seemed to be engaged?"
Changfeng lowered his head even further, stubbornly refusing to look up. Madam Wang exclaimed in surprise: "Has the engagement fallen through?"
Sheng Hong glared at her again before turning back to continue speaking with Old Madam: "Mother, rest assured. How could I be careless in matters of our children's marriages? Brother Liu behaves like a nephew before you, and you know his character well. He explained everything to me thoroughly. The Liu daughter was indeed engaged - to the Jiang family of Ding'an, specifically the youngest legitimate grandson of the retired Grand Secretary Jiang."
Old Madam narrowed her eyes and nodded: "That would be a well-matched marriage."
Seeing that Old Madam's mood had eased somewhat, Sheng Hong took a sip of tea to moisten his throat: "Originally, they were supposed to marry before the new year, but remember when Ding'an suffered from that epidemic? Grand Secretary Jiang's son passed away, so that young Master Jiang had to observe three years of mourning for his father."
"That's proper etiquette. In that case, the marriage must be postponed." Old Madam said.Sheng Hong set down his teacup and sighed, "So the two families agreed to hold the wedding after the mourning period ended. But unexpectedly, just a few months ago, the Liu family discovered something..." He let out a long sigh, "That young master Jiang actually... actually had an affair with a maid during the mourning period, and even fathered a child!"
Old Madam's face darkened, while Madam Wang curled her lips disdainfully, "The Jiang family of Ding'an is nothing special after all."
"Sister-in-law Liu comes from a prominent clan herself and has always been strict about propriety. When she heard about this, she specially went to Ding'an to demand an explanation. The Jiang family repeatedly apologized, and after much discussion, they even increased the betrothal gifts considerably. But there was still no proper resolution. So Madam Liu refused to marry her daughter into their family," Sheng Hong said quietly.
The room fell silent. After a long while, Old Madam finally spoke, "If it were me, I wouldn't want to marry my daughter there either."
Minglan nodded inwardly - this Madam Liu was indeed a sensible woman.
First, Young Master Jiang's behavior during the mourning period showed he was unfilial and immoral, with questionable character and self-control. Second, the fact that a child had been born proved the Jiang family's lax discipline - at the very least, Madam Jiang couldn't escape blame for spoiling and indulging her son. Having such a mother-in-law would be quite troublesome. Third, since they hadn't agreed to send away the mother and keep the child, it seemed the maid had some skills that made Young Master Jiang quite fond of her.
With these three points, even if the marriage went through, life would likely be difficult. Better to endure short-term pain than long-term suffering. Rather than marrying and leaving the initiative in the Jiang family's hands, it was wiser to think carefully before the wedding.
"If she doesn't want to marry, then don't!" Madam Wang said sarcastically. "With the Liu family's status, it's not like their daughter can't find another match?"
"It's not that simple!" Sheng Hong smiled bitterly.
As Madam Wang prepared to retort, Minglan quickly intervened to mediate, saying softly, "This matter is indeed complicated. The Jiang and Liu families have been friends for generations. Even if they can't become in-laws, they shouldn't become enemies. If the engagement is broken, the Liu family would have to disclose Young Master Jiang's unfilial conduct to clear their name. Since our dynasty values filial piety above all, this would ruin Young Master Jiang's future prospects. But if they keep it quiet, the blame for breaking the engagement would fall on Sister Liu, making it harder for her to find another match..."
Her gentle words made even Madam Wang pause: "This... is indeed troublesome."
Sheng Hong glanced at Minglan with pleasure before turning back to Old Madam, "As Ming'er said, with their daughter's marriageable age passing, Brother Liu is quite anxious, which is why he came to propose this match to us. Others may not know the details, but we understand the Jiang family is entirely at fault here. Besides, you've met the Liu girl before - haven't you often praised her character and conduct?"
By now, Old Madam was quite tempted. Her eyes met Sheng Hong's, and after a silent exchange, mother and son understood each other perfectly.
This marriage proposal was excellent.
Originally, as a concubine-born son who had only passed the provincial exam with no certainty of when he might pass the imperial exams, and with the Sheng family not being an established clan, Changfeng marrying the legitimate daughter of the prestigious Liu family would have been an ambitious match. But now that the Liu family had come seeking the marriage themselves, even if they secured this daughter-in-law, they wouldn't have to worry about Changfeng feeling inferior as a husband or receiving condescending treatment from his in-laws.Old Madam slapped the armrest of the daybed decisively. "This marriage is acceptable. There's no question about the character of the Third Miss of the Liu family - she's truly a virtuous woman who can manage a household. Go inquire about her birth date later. If it's compatible..." She paused briefly, "I will personally visit to propose the marriage."
Madam Wang's face turned half green with barely contained fury, but before she could speak, Sheng Hong quickly interjected, "Mother is absolutely right. I share the same opinion - we cannot truly let the woman's family reverse the proposal process."
"Since we're going through with this marriage, we must do it properly," Old Madam declared firmly. "We'll tell everyone that I genuinely admire the Liu girl's character, and though I know we're reaching above our station, I'm willing to swallow my pride and personally seek this match."
"Then we'll have Brother Liu pretend to be somewhat reluctant, letting the Jiang family take the initiative to find some excuse - like mourning duties or guarding ancestral tombs - saying they're afraid of delaying the young lady, thus dissolving the engagement. This way we'll have a proper explanation for society," Sheng Hong had already worked out the entire plan.
"This matter is bound to draw some gossip. Let's swallow our pride and allow the Liu family to save face completely. They'll remember this kindness and will surely support Feng Ge'er generously in the future!"
The mother and son exchanged words back and forth, leaving no room for anyone else to interject. Madam Wang was fuming internally, frustrated by her inability to quickly come up with a reason to object. Minglan kept her head firmly lowered, avoiding Madam Wang's gaze. This was indeed a good match—even she couldn't find any flaws in it at the moment.
Old Mrs. Sheng turned her head, her eyes filled with affection as she looked at Changfeng. After all, she had watched him grow up and hoped he would have a smooth life. The Liu family had many members in official positions; even if their ranks weren't high, there was strength in numbers. In the future, Changfeng would have a reliable support system.
Sheng Hong promptly instructed him to kowtow to Old Mrs. Sheng in gratitude.
"Your grandson is unfilial, troubling you again, Grandmother. To have you, at such an age, running about for my marriage arrangements—I am truly ashamed," Changfeng said, his words as charming as ever, his face flushed and his demeanor as shy as a young maiden.
Old Mrs. Sheng chuckled warmly, "If I can secure a good wife for you, I'd be happy to wear my old legs out running for it."
After a few more lighthearted jokes at Changfeng's expense, Sheng Hong sent him back to his room to study.
Changfeng's face was as red as clouds at sunset, his cheeks flushed like peach blossoms, his eyes tinged with a trace of melancholy and resentment. He didn't dare meet the elders' eyes, but before leaving, he cast a meaningful glance at Minglan. Minglan was loudly congratulating Sheng Hong and Old Mrs. Sheng, cheerfully adding to the festive atmosphere. Suddenly catching Changfeng's gaze, she couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt.
She understood what Changfeng meant, but she didn't dare bring it up.
After Changfeng left, Old Mrs. Sheng and Sheng Hong continued discussing the key points of the marriage arrangement, growing more and more engrossed in their conversation. Minglan noticed Madam Wang's ashen expression and sensed her deep displeasure. Quickly, she diverted her with amusing stories of country life—catching wild rabbits, trapping sparrows, soaking in hot springs...
Madam Wang gradually perked up and asked, "Is that hot spring estate also on the Western Hills? They say it's a wonderful place—warm waters and soothing mountains, perfect for restoring one's spirits. Soaking in hot springs can even cure ailments. Your eldest sister hasn't been well..." She trailed off meaningfully.
Minglan caught on immediately and replied with a smile, "You're absolutely right, Madam. I've been thinking about this for a while. I've already ordered the estate to be tidied up. Once Eldest Sister is feeling better, I'll invite her to rest at the hot spring estate for a couple of days. You and Old Madam should come along too. It's just a pity that Fifth Sister is pregnant and shouldn't soak in hot springs."
Pleased with Minglan's docile and obedient manner, Madam Wang added, "I know you're a good child. Our family has so few relatives in the capital. Even after you marry, you mustn't forget Kang Yima. Let them share in your good fortune too..."
Before she could finish, there was a loud thud—Old Mrs. Sheng slammed her teacdown onto the bedside table, her face as cold as frost. "A married daughter belongs to her husband's family. It's one thing for Hualan, who is unwell, to need recuperation. But what would it look like if a swarm of maternal aunts and cousins from her maiden family descended upon the Gu family's estate? Are they seeking refuge or looking for handouts? Does the Sheng family still care about face or not?!"
Sheng Hong, who always prized his reputation, hadn't thought much of Madam Wang's words earlier, but now his expression darkened with displeasure.Madam Wang's face was extremely unpleasant as she muttered under her breath, "It's just a trivial matter. Now that Ming Yatou is doing so well, shouldn't she help her maternal family a bit..."
The Old Madam let out a few short, cold laughs, staring at Madam Wang as she slowly said, "How many days has it been since the wedding? She has sent generous gifts to Hua'er, to you and Brother Bai's wife, and even to Ru Yatou—how many lavish presents has she given already! Those sable furs and snow ginseng, all the food, clothing, and daily necessities—I’ve held my tongue, but you act as if they were picked up from the roadside, wishing you could demand even more?"
Being scolded in front of the younger generation, Madam Wang was utterly humiliated and resentful. Sensing the Old Madam’s anger, she dared not retort. Minglan respectfully stood up and positioned herself properly to the side. She had no desire to speak. The Sheng family was one thing, but as for Kang Yima—she only wished to see her less often. Every encounter ended with a scolding, and she wasn’t a masochist, offering the other cheek after being struck on one.
The hall fell into silence. The Old Madam slowly swept her gaze over Sheng Hong and his wife, then said meaningfully, "Take Feng Ge'er today, for example. If it were truly a good match, I would drag my old bones to arrange it! But the Gu family? Their pond is deep, the waters murky—this marriage was never one I approved of from the start."
These words made Madam Wang break out in a cold sweat, while Sheng Hong felt a bitter taste in his mouth.
The Old Madam glanced at Minglan, who stood with her head bowed, revealing her delicate chin. A surge of anger rose in the Old Madam’s heart, and she raised her voice, "Ming Yatou is carefree and easygoing—she ought to have married into an honest, ordinary family. But the Gu family is a nest of troubles! How old is Ming Yatou? She’s just a child, newly married, with no caring elder to look after her. She doesn’t know the depths of that household, living on edge every day, never knowing when she might make a misstep. She can barely take care of herself! And before she’s even found her footing, people are already thinking of 'benefiting' from her?"
Madam Wang’s face burned with shame. Sheng Hong shot her a sharp glare—was it because Minglan wasn’t her own daughter that she felt no pity? Thankfully, he had personally arranged Changfeng’s marriage; otherwise, who knew how it would have turned out.
Minglan’s eyes grew warm, and she struggled to hold back tears. She knew the Old Madam was setting boundaries for her, to prevent Madam Wang from constantly making demands on behalf of this or that person. She blinked hard, forcing the moisture from the corners of her eyes, then stepped forward to the Old Madam’s side, smiling sweetly. "The Old Madam pities me, afraid I’ll empty my in-laws’ house for my maternal family and end up being sent back!"
The Old Madam couldn’t help but curl the corners of her mouth. Minglan linked arms with her, coaxing affectionately, "It’s just a few hot springs. Others may be excluded, but of course, our own family must go! When the time comes, I’ll scrub your back and massage your shoulders for you and Madam. My skills—the Old Madam knows them best. Don’t get so comfortable you can’t climb out of the pool!"
The Old Madam swayed from Minglan’s shaking and pinched her hard, smiling as she shot her a mock-stern look. Minglan turned to Sheng Hong, her expression serious and her tone earnest. "Although your daughter wishes to fulfill her filial duties, men and women must maintain propriety. Father, you’d better rely on my brothers and sons-in-law for that. But let me warn you first: your sixth son-in-law wields a three-hundred-pound strong bow and great arrows—he can draw the string with both arms. You’d better take it easy."
Sheng Hong’s worried expression vanished. Unable to maintain his composure, he burst out laughing, pointing at Minglan and shaking his head. "You girl!"
The Old Madam finally laughed too, wrapping her arms around her granddaughter and hugging her tightly, patting her several times. "All you know how to do is talk nonsense!"After some laughter and banter, Sheng Hong and Madam Wang took their leave together, leaving only the grandmother and granddaughter in the hall. Old Mrs. Sheng slowly wiped the smile from her face, immediately got down from the daybed, and pulled Minglan straight into the inner room.
"Speak, what happened at the Gu residence?" Old Mrs. Sheng stared solemnly at Minglan. "I raised you—I know exactly how many twists and turns are in your gut. Cut the nonsense and talk!"
Minglan knew she couldn't hide it, so she simply told the truth, from beginning to end, taking a full two cups of tea to finish.
"So you want to come back and hide for a couple of days?" Old Mrs. Sheng's voice rose sharply, her gaze as if looking at a blockhead.
Minglan flushed with embarrassment, stammering: "...I was just thinking about it. I know it's not appropriate."
"At least you're not completely foolish!" Old Mrs. Sheng shot her an exasperated glare.
Minglan rubbed her head, sheepishly drooping like a scolded puppy.
Old Mrs. Sheng pulled Minglan closer and said slowly, "Tell me the truth—do you feel your husband went too far in this matter? You disagree in your heart, so you don't want to stay there, am I right?"
Minglan's eyes were clear as she gazed directly into the old woman's eyes. After a long while, she shook her head and whispered, "No, actually, I think he did nothing wrong."
Old Mrs. Sheng's eyes flickered. Minglan leaned her head on her grandmother's shoulder and said word by word, "Those people, though they wail and pretend to be pitiful, I know they're far from desperate. What Tingye truly wants, they understand perfectly well—it's nothing more than 'justice.' Yet they deliberately avoid mentioning it."
"Tingye isn't trying to drive them to ruin. They simply can't bear to part with their wealth and status. They want to rely on Tingye's influence to continue enjoying their privileges, yet they refuse to sincerely repent for how they wronged Lady Bai and Tingye back then and over the years. Their weeping, howling, and shameless antics are all just to pressure Tingye into softening his heart and loosening his grip, so they can slip past."
Minglan drifted into thought. "I wanted to hide away, only... only..." She found it tiresome and didn't want to charge into battle.
Old Mrs. Sheng lovingly stroked her hair, her aged voice as soft and warm as cotton batting in the sun: "You're clever. There's much I needn't say—you understand it all in your heart. Go back and live your life well."
Minglan lifted her radiant face, wrapped her arms around Old Mrs. Sheng's neck, and responded firmly: "Mm."
...
That day, she ate her fill at the Sheng residence, slept soundly through the afternoon, and returned to Clear Garden full of fighting spirit.
With her attitude adjusted, Minglan felt much more cheerful. She attended to Gu Tingye with utmost care, helping him change and wash up. Dinner was set up as usual in the cool courtyard. Dismissing the maids, only the couple remained to share a light drink.
"I thought you might stay there?" he asked with a tipsy smile.
Minglan shook her head playfully: "Grandmother said, you and I are like two grasshoppers tied to the same string. Even if you were to kill and burn, I'd help you cover the traces."
Gu Tingye's handsome brows lifted slightly. He raised his glass in a toast and laughed heartily: "The old lady speaks wisely!"
He drained his cup in one go, set it down, and felt a surge of contentment. He added, "And this marriage for your third brother is quite suitable. Liu Ming appears stubborn and inflexible, but in truth, he's firm on the outside and adaptable within. With all the turmoil in the capital over the years, and so many in the Court of Judicial Review dismissed or executed, he's managed to remain safe till now. He's quite a figure."Minglan wasn't surprised. Like attracts like - no wonder Sheng Hong had instantly clicked with the former Minister of Works Old Master Lu shortly after joining the ministry. At their core, they were the same type of people.
Originally, Old Master Lu had planned to retire from his position as Minister of Works, but unexpected political turmoil provided an opportunity for him to join the Grand Secretariat instead. Barring unforeseen circumstances, Sheng Hong seemed determined to follow in Old Master Lu's footsteps.
Given how long Sheng Hong had maintained good relations with Minister Liu Ming, Minglan suspected the minister's imitation of Hai Rui must have its limits.
"It's a good match, so why do you look like that?" Gu Tingye noticed Minglan seemed somewhat emotional. "Does your third brother object?"
"How could he object? This Third Miss Liu remarkably resembles her father in both character and appearance."
Gu Tingye caught her implication and studied Minglan for a moment. "Both character and appearance?" An unflattering image quickly surfaced in his mind.
"Strikingly similar."
It wasn't that Third Miss Liu was shockingly ugly, but... ahem, every time Minglan saw her, she was reminded of her stern high school principal - that dignified countenance wearing a wig adorned with pearl hairpins.
Gu Tingye's eyes lit up. "Does your third brother know?"
"Of course he knows."
The women of both families frequently visited each other. Even if Changfeng didn't remember what Miss Liu looked like as a child, Rulan, who rarely encountered young ladies so different from herself in appearance, would return from every visit to the Liu residence practically broadcasting her observations through a megaphone.
Minglan's eyes grew melancholy. "That's why my third brother is so overjoyed he can't even eat."
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