For the next two days, Kang Yifu and Wang Old Madam came to visit in succession. Changbai sent word to Minglan: Matters at the front are being handled by your father, brother, and husband—just focus on taking good care of Old Madam. The above complete sentence was the result of combined imagination from Hanniu and Hai Shi.
Minglan was not one to meddle in others' affairs, so she obediently stayed in the Longevity and Peace Hall, keeping Old Madam company with silly jokes and reading a couple of volumes of Buddhist scriptures by her bedside, only occasionally inquiring about updates from outside.
According to Xiaotao's reports, Lord Sheng Hong performed quite admirably over these two days.
When Kang Yifu arrived, Sheng Hong appeared utterly dejected, repeatedly advocating for peace and saying it wouldn't do to truly have the Wang family bear the shame of a divorced daughter—how would the Wang family face others? He urged Kang Yifu to take Kang Yima back. Kang Yifu was terrified, fearing that his troublesome wife might make yet another miraculous comeback, and swore vehemently to voluntarily send her to the House of Repentance before hastily fleeing.
When Wang Old Madam came, Sheng Hong was filled with righteous indignation, quoting sages and principles, invoking conscience and morality, and citing classics until he was moved to tears, nearly severing ties with the Wang family just to insist on severe punishment for Kang Wangshi.
Crucially, Madam Wang stepped forward with her head held high, declaring like a martyr her willingness to repent by chanting scriptures in the family temple for ten years. When Wang Old Madam tried to say more, her daughter coldly walked away without even a glance at her mother.
Left with no choice, Wang Old Madam knew the matter was beyond remedy and finally nodded in agreement.
In the sweltering summer days, lingering by doors and windows was exhausting. During a break, Xiaotao treated Hanniu to some chilled mung bean soup and casually gathered updates about Changbai and his wife.
"...Over these two days, the young master has only spoken five and a half sentences," Hanniu lamented the hardships of his work. "Jade Swallow from the young mistress's side said things will improve in three or four days, but I think it'll take at least ten days to half a month." Life is unbearable! Wuwuwu.
On the third day, the three families gathered at the Sheng residence to finalize the arrangements. Wang Old Madam agreed to send her daughter to the House of Repentance, Kang Yifu repeatedly promised not to mistreat the children from his first wife, and Sheng Hong repeatedly assured that he would treat his nephews as kindly as before.
That afternoon, they prepared carriages and deliberately took remote, secluded paths to the Imperial Household Department. The eunuch in charge of the House of Repentance was well-experienced, and since Gu Tingye had made arrangements two days prior, he didn't inquire about Kang Wangshi's offenses. He simply had both her natal and marital families stamp and sign the documents, then somberly declared the matter settled and irrevocable.
Gagged and bound tightly, Kang Wangshi was thrown into a carriage. They passed through a narrow, dilapidated path overgrown with weeds, flanked by towering grey brick walls, with vermilion and yellow tiles faintly visible in the distance.
She still didn't understand what was happening until several stern, indifferent matrons in coarse clothing dragged her through a secluded black-lacquered gate into a crude, gloomy room. Only then did she struggle and cry out softly. The Wang family, uneasy, followed behind.
Wang Old Madam, tears in her eyes, said, "My child, this is the House of Repentance. Behave well here, and I will visit often..."
It was like a thunderclap ringing in her ears—Kang Wangshi couldn't hear the rest. What kind of place was the House of Repentance? Having been raised in luxury since childhood, how could she endure such a life worse than that of pigs and dogs?!She began to wail frantically. As soon as the maids beside her removed the cloth from her mouth, she screamed like a madwoman, "How could you send your own daughter to such a place?! What kind of mother are you? What kind of brother are you?! Do you want me to die? How heartless! Seeing the Sheng family's wealth, you no longer care about your own flesh and blood!"
Her eyes were bloodshot, and she looked like a rabid beast ready to tear someone apart, frightening Madam Wang and her son into taking a step back.
"If you won't save me, why did you even give birth to me?! You guarded my father jealously, yet you always preached about virtue and wifely duties to me. When I didn’t live up to your expectations, you abandoned me! You are not my mother—you heartless, ungrateful creature..."
With her younger daughter despising her and her elder daughter filled with such venom, Wang Old Madam finally couldn't bear it any longer. She coughed up a mouthful of dark red blood and collapsed weakly. Wang Uncle caught her, calling out repeatedly. Seeing his mother unconscious and her face as pale as gold paper, he turned angrily to his sister and said, "Mother has worn herself out for you, and this is how you repay her? I am not your brother. Fine, from now on, you are no longer my sister either!"
With that, he carried his elderly mother out on his back. For a moment, chaos reigned inside and outside the room. When everyone had finally left, a middle-aged female official in plain clothes slowly emerged from the corner of the room and said coldly, "Such defiance and unfilial behavior deserve to be disciplined properly."
Kang Wangshi opened her mouth to curse, but the female official raised her hand and slapped her hard twice across the face, leaving her ears ringing. Still defiant, Kang Wangshi managed to utter two insults—"worthless servant!"—before the female official took a thin wooden board handed to her by a maid and struck Kang Wangshi's cheeks forcefully. She struck more than a dozen times, until Kang Wangshi's cheeks were swollen, bruised, and bleeding from the corners of her mouth.
"If your mouth remains unruly, I will keep hitting you. Let's see which is harder—your temper or my board," the female official said expressionlessly.
Half of Kang Wangshi's face was numb with pain, and she nearly fainted. Bound tightly and unable to move, she gritted her teeth and said, "I would rather die than endure your abuse!"
The female official remained unmoved and replied coldly, "I advise you not to resort to threats of suicide. Many have died here—one more won't make a difference." Of course, it was better if she lived, as she could still contribute offerings.
With that, she turned and left. Three or four rough, sturdy maids rushed in, quickly stripped Kang Wangshi of her clothes, took away her silk garments, and tossed her a set of coarse cloth clothing. Humiliated and furious, Kang Wangshi lacked the courage to go out naked. Suppressing the pain in her face, she cursed under her breath and resentfully put on the musty-smelling fabric.
The doors and windows were tightly shut, and the silence was unnerving. Kang Wangshi grew increasingly frightened. Was she truly going to be trapped in this wretched place for the rest of her life? No, she wouldn't allow it—she had to escape. She had overcome countless dangers in the first half of her life; she could do it again! No one could bully her—she was the legitimate eldest daughter of the Lanxi Wang family!
Just then, the door creaked open halfway, and a middle-aged woman slowly entered. Kang Wangshi's eyes lit up, and she rushed forward to grasp the woman's hands. "Dear sister-in-law, you've finally come! I... I..."
Wang Aunt gently shook off her hands and looked with satisfaction at her sister-in-law's battered face and shabby clothes. She said leisurely, "I came to bid you farewell. Originally, Mother was supposed to deliver the message, but now she’s half-dead from your anger, so I had to come instead."Kang Wangshi wept, "I must have lost my mind earlier to insult Mother! Please beg Mother to come see me—I'll kowtow and apologize... Brother is angry with me too, please plead on my behalf and rescue me from this place..."
"Hehe, Auntie, you jest. With your vast knowledge, how could you not know the rules of the House of Repentance? Once entered, none may leave without an imperial decree. Are you suggesting we storm the palace to break you out?" Wang Aunt covered her sleeve with a light laugh.
Kang Wangshi shook her sister-in-law urgently, "Then tell Brother to beg the Emperor!"
Wang Aunt laughed even harder, "Oh my, Auntie, such grand ambitions. Pity your husband holds a petty official rank—even gaining an audience with His Majesty is difficult, let alone pleading for special favors."
Kang Wangshi cried out indignantly, "My father served three reigns! His memorial tablet rests in the Hall of Distinguished Ministers—how could the Emperor refuse me grace?"
"Each reign brings new ministers, Auntie. Have you considered what era this is? Besides, remember the Third Master of the Gao family prosecuted years ago? His father also served three reigns."
Kang Wangshi released her grip in despair, fear and panic mingling, "Is there truly no one who can petition the Emperor?"
Wang Aunt replied coolly, "Among our relatives, only two can speak before the Emperor: Marquis Gu and the old Prince of Anyang. But..." She smiled faintly, "Does Auntie believe the Sheng family's sixth daughter would ask her husband to seek mercy for you? Or that your illegitimate daughter longs for your release?"
Knowing Minglan's bitter hatred for her, Kang Wangshi grasped at straws: "I still hold Jin Yiniang's contract! If that wretched girl disobeys, I'll sell her mother!"
Wang Aunt shook her head in amused disbelief, "Stop scheming to sell others. All your confidantes—starting with Nanny Qi—will be exiled to the Yunnan frontier within days, every last one."
"Why?!"
"Do you think the Wang family would keep those who know of this affair? Moreover, these servants not only failed to dissuade you but actively abetted your schemes. Mother is venting all her fury upon them now."
Frantic, Kang Wangshi stamped her feet and thrashed her disheveled hair, "I don't care! I must get out! Tell Mother to find a way! Tell Brother to bribe officials, promise posts, seek help from Father's old friends—"
Wang Aunt cut off her rambling, "Stop dreaming. You're never leaving. Do you know how you ended up here?" Her smile turned icy with sarcasm, "When this broke, your husband stormed in demanding to either divorce you or send you a silken cord. The Sheng family insisted on justice. To preserve the Wang family's dignity—and your life—this was the only option."
Kang Wangshi spat bitterly, "I knew Mother only cared about the family's reputation. Let the Kang family divorce me! I'd survive better outside than suffering here."
"The Wang family has more than just you. Mother has other children and grandchildren to protect. Don't overestimate yourself—did you truly believe you were a golden phoenix, heaven's favored daughter?" Wang Aunt sneered. What arrogance, blind to reality.
Kang Wangshi glared hatefully, "You must be delighted to see me so wretched."
"You're absolutely right," Wang Aunt admitted bluntly.
Kang Wangshi snarled, "You—!""Everyone says the Wang family is a good match, with a kind mother-in-law and husband. Who would have thought I'd encounter a sister-in-law like you?"
Wang Aunt smoothed her hair, her calm expression concealing years of suppressed resentment. "...I knew early on that my future husband's family had two daughters. Having no sisters of my own, I always imagined treating you like my own younger sisters, hoping for a harmonious family. But from the moment I entered this household, you've been whispering in Mother's ear, finding fault with me in various ways, making me follow strict rules, and even sowing discord between me and your brother. Did you think I didn't know... Hah, I knew everything. But I had no choice but to try every means to please you, even your maids and servants."
Recalling those humiliating days, waves of hatred surged within Wang Aunt.
"That year, right after I gave birth to You Ge'er's elder sister, you urged Mother to find a concubine for your brother. How many times did I cry in secret, waking up terrified at night? Fortunately, your brother is gentle and Mother is reasonable, so they didn't listen to you. Heh, that must have displeased you, didn't it?... You've had this temperament since childhood—everyone should obey you, watch your mood, and place you on a pedestal. The slightest disagreement would make you throw a tantrum. An unmarried sister-in-law meddling in her brother and sister-in-law's private affairs—truly unheard of, and you made me witness it."
Kang Wangshi's cheek muscles twitched—she had never taken this sister-in-law seriously, never expected...
"I waited and waited, and finally you married out. But then..." Wang Aunt looked at her mockingly, "You took a fancy to my white jade Guanyin statue for granting children. That was something my mother obtained from Fengxia Mountain after kowtowing every three steps. You demanded it as you pleased, even threatening not to marry unless you got it, and I had to smile while handing it over. Thank heavens I later had You Ge'er. But from that day on, I truly hated you to the core."
Remembering how her mother, worried about her delayed childbirth, devoutly kowtowed at Fengxia Mountain until she was covered in wounds, Wang Aunt unconsciously twisted her face into a fierce expression of hatred.
Kang Wangshi suddenly thought of something and shouted, "Don't you dare trouble my Yuan'er! If you have grievances, take them out on me..."
Wang Aunt threw her head back and laughed, almost to the point of tears: "Originally, I didn't dare touch her, thinking of just finding a concubine. But now... Heh, don't worry, I'll soon find a good match and get You Ge'er an equal wife!"
"An equal wife? How dare you?!" Kang Aunt rushed forward to grab her collar, screaming hysterically, "Whether Yuan'er can bear children is still uncertain, but even if she can't, just take a maid and be done with it, keep the child and discard the mother!"
Wang Aunt shoved her away with an elbow and sneered, "Do you still think you're the Wang family's young lady who gets whatever she wants? Bah, look at yourself in the mirror! Let me tell you, Yuan'er absolutely cannot bear children!"
"How do you know? Unless... you did something!" Kang Wangshi reacted quickly—she often did such things herself. "How cruel! She's your niece too! Your daughter-in-law!"
Wang Aunt straightened her sleeves, her eyes icy: "A daughter-in-law like Yuan'er—I wouldn't want her even with mountains of gold and silver. It's hateful how Mother favors her, forcing me to endure it. I thought since she's still young, I could properly train her. But... Hmph, after entering this household, she's been disrespectful and impudent. I merely scolded her a few times, and she ran back to her family to complain. What exactly did you tell her?"Kang Wangshi thought of that secret matter and broke out in a cold sweat.
Wang Aunt said coldly, "You told Yuan'er that Mother is too old to manage affairs, and You Ge'er and his father are both honest men. Once I die, not only will no one restrain her, but the entire Wang family will fall into her hands! You also gave Yuan'er many fine things, didn't you? Hmph, too bad your daughter only inherited your viciousness but not your cunning. She easily trusted those around her, allowing me to extract the whole truth."
She suddenly raised her voice, "I don't provoke others unless provoked. Though Yuan'er couldn't find an opportunity to harm me, I had plenty. I sent someone to a brothel to obtain a potent medicinal soup and had Yuan'er drink it. She'll never bear children in this lifetime!"
Kang Wangshi screamed, lunging at her with ten sharp fingers outstretched, but her steps were unsteady. Wang Aunt pushed her away forcefully, sending her crashing heavily to the ground. Kang Wangshi could only weep, "That was all my idea! If you're angry, you could have complained to Mother and punished us severely. Why harm a child?"
Wang Aunt sneered, "What good would complaining do? Mother has always favored you. This time, it took Sheng Shi mobilizing the entire family's resources to have you sent here. Auntie is so capable, I dare not take you lightly."
"I'll tell Mother about your wicked deeds!"
Wang Aunt laughed, "The next time the House of Repentance opens won't be until the first month of next year. By then, the whole family will have long since accompanied your brother to his new post. Though he couldn't remain in the capital, he managed to secure a good position—in the warm, gentle landscapes of Jiangnan, perfect for recuperation. Barring unforeseen circumstances, he'll serve two terms there."
She lowered her voice, her eyes smiling, "This time, Mother was so angered by you that her condition worsened. The physician said her old chronic illnesses have resurfaced. Tell me, will she still be around in seven or eight years? Or if she is, will she still have the strength to intervene?"
A chill spread through Kang Yima's heart as she sat on the ground, feeling like a helpless trapped beast—she knew Wang Old Madam's health well, having been plagued by serious illness for years. It was precisely because she feared her mother's time was short that she wanted to act quickly, lest she find herself powerless and constrained in the future. Who knew she'd run into such a hard obstacle—all because of that Sheng girl, who refused to let go and insisted on investigating thoroughly.
Wang Aunt picked up her hand, clicking her tongue, "Auntie's hands are so well-maintained. At your age, they're still like a young girl's—tender, white, and smooth. Ah, but from now on, you'll have to chop wood, wash clothes, and do rough labor. Once you develop chilblains and calluses... tsk tsk, what a pity."
She straightened up and slowly walked to the door, "Yun'er is a kind-hearted child with good fortune. I doubt the Sheng family will treat her too harshly. As for Yuan'er... her reckless, arrogant behavior seems almost like madness. I'll find a courtyard where she can recuperate properly. Don't worry, Auntie, as long as I live, I'll ensure she lives well with good food and drink."
As she stepped outside, Kang Wangshi's wailing cries followed, mixed with vicious curses. The middle-aged female official approached like a ghost, whispering, "Madam need not worry. Although the rule is to see relatives twice a year, rules are made by people. When the time comes, we can simply report that you're unwell and unable to come out."
The tricks of powerful families were numerous, and she managed to earn a tidy sum from them each year.Wang Aunt smiled, "Then I'll trouble you, sister. I'll send the annual offerings, and please don't disdain these humble gifts."
As long as she could hold out until Wang Old Madam passed away, it wouldn't matter even if Kang Jin and Yun'er found out. Moreover, she had long since erased all evidence and traces. Without any proof, Kang Wangshi's mad ravings were unlikely to be believed by anyone.
After years of swallowing humiliation, today's vindication brought Wang Aunt indescribable joy.
Thinking she had finally rid herself of this curse-like, lingering scourge—that her husband would no longer have to humble himself to beg for mercy and clean up messes, and she wouldn't have to scrimp and save silver each year for Kang Wangshi to squander—even the scorching summer sun beating directly on her face felt inconsequential. And then there was her son; this time, she would carefully select a bride for him. It didn't matter if the family background was humble, as long as the girl was virtuous and well-behaved.
When she stepped outside, the Kang Family had long disappeared, and the Sheng Family had also returned. Because her mother-in-law had suddenly fallen ill, her husband had escorted her home first. Wang Aunt took another carriage and, after some thought, decided not to return directly to the Wang residence but instead detoured to the Sheng residence.
After entering the Sheng residence, she sought out Madam Wang and comforted her with kind words. Madam Wang, feeling both fearful and aggrieved, tearfully expressed her gratitude, "I know you care for me, sister-in-law. It's just hateful that my own birth sister would harm me like this."
Wang Aunt sighed. Although this sister-in-law had a bad temper, she had never made things difficult for her over the years. She was just stubborn and unlikable. On the other hand, her daughter Rulan was said to be growing more steady and dignified. Ah, if only they had secured Rulan as a daughter-in-law back then—it was all ruined by that detestable woman.
Madam Wang wiped her nose, still weeping, "That heartless wretch of mine told me to set off in two days, saying something about... leaving early and returning early, to complete the ten years soon!"
That wretched boy was truly heartless. He even sent a scroll inscribed with "x year, August 25th"—the date he had set for her departure—and told her to hang it on the wall of the family temple, to look at it often and keep it in mind. The brat even magnanimously said that ten years later, in August, she could return half a month early, just in time for the Mid-Autumn Festival with the family.
Boo hoo, are these the words of a human being?!
Fortunately, Hai Shi secretly informed her that as long as Old Madam's anger subsided and she softened, she might speak up, and Madam Wang could potentially return a few years early. Hai Shi also sent a blank notebook she had personally prepared, with straight, slender ink lines drawn on snow-white silk paper. She instructed her mother-in-law to spend the next few years learning more characters, practicing calligraphy diligently, and carefully copying several sutras to present to Old Madam as a gesture of repentance.
Boo hoo, her daughter-in-law was truly good—filial and considerate. It was just a pity she was too ashamed to face her now.
And that wasn't all. Hui Jie'er had been raised by Madam Wang since childhood and slept in her grandmother's arms every night. Three days ago, Changbai took his daughter from her room. The little granddaughter clung to her clothes, crying as if her heart would break, refusing to leave. In the end, her tiny fingers were pried away one by one, and she was taken away—Madam Wang wept bitterly, her heart shattered. It was only then that she felt the piercing regret.
Heavens above, she should never have harbored evil intentions or wicked thoughts. Now, the Bodhisattva was punishing her.
After comforting Madam Wang, Wang Aunt had a maid escort her to the Longevity and Peace Hall.After paying respects to Old Mrs. Sheng, it was evident her complexion had improved. She reclined partially against the headboard while speaking with Quange, while Hai Shi held her infant son of just a few months, cheerfully joining in the conversation. Meanwhile, Changbai was admonishing his younger sister nearby, though his voice was too low to be clearly heard.
Wang Aunt sincerely offered many wishes for a speedy recovery. Not knowing whether Old Mrs. Sheng was aware of the poisoning incident, she carefully avoided any mention of it. Old Mrs. Sheng responded with a warm smile and engaged her in pleasant small talk. Changbai, his sister, and Hai Shi all rose to exchange greetings and well-wishes. Seeing the Sheng family's continued kindness toward her, Wang Aunt finally set her mind at ease. After a few more words, she took her leave.
Since Hai Shi was holding the child, Changbai gestured for Minglan to see their guest out. Standing under the corridor as Wang Aunt walked away, Changbai turned to speak again, but Minglan clutched her head pleadingly: "Brother, don't scold me anymore! I've already kowtowed to Father and apologized. What more do you want?"
Changbai maintained a stern expression: "Words reflect one's heart. Your question 'what more do you want' shows you're not truly repentant. The sages say—"
"Please, brother, I truly know I was wrong. I shouldn't have stubbornly escalated the situation, shouldn't have willfully confined Aunt, and certainly shouldn't have been so reckless as to arrest people..."
"Wrong," Changbai interrupted. "None of those things were mistakes. I would have done the same."
Minglan looked bewildered: "Then... where did I go wrong?"
Changbai flicked her forehead sharply: "You shouldn't have used your husband's influence to defy Father and make him lose face. However mistaken Father might be, he's still your elder. Threatening and mocking him—is that how a child should behave? Father isn't unreasonable. Had you properly explained the situation and consequences, you would have naturally united to face it together. Where was your usual cleverness when you were carrying on so dramatically? You only show intelligence when it's convenient."
Thoroughly chastened and unable to offer any defense, Minglan muttered: "I'm not as smart as you, brother. You can discuss Aunt's poisoning from court politics to household affairs, from present implications to consequences decades later..."
Changbai glared and raised his hand for another flick. Minglan ducked, protesting: "I've already admitted my fault! With all my crying and serving tea, Father doesn't blame me anymore!" Though in truth, Sheng Hong had simply taken the opportunity to let the matter drop.
As they spoke, Minglan suddenly felt nauseous, covering her mouth as if to vomit, though nothing came up. The siblings had returned indoors to find Doctor Lin checking Old Madam's pulse.
"Are my words that disgusting?" Changbai continued his lecture, noting her inadequate attitude toward repentance.
Minglan shook her head and waved her hands. It was Hai Shi who noticed something unusual and asked concernedly: "Sister hasn't looked well these past few days. Since Doctor Lin is here, why not have him examine you?"
Old Madam, full of worry, immediately had Minglan sit down.
Doctor Lin cheerfully placed three fingers on her wrist. Soon, a peculiar expression crossed his face. He glanced at Minglan before concentrating on the pulse again. Seeing the doctor remain silent, Old Madam grew anxious: "What is it? What's wrong?"
Rising with a smile, Doctor Lin bowed: "Congratulations, Old Madam. The lady is with child."
The room fell silent. Changbai looked at the two fingers he'd used to flick her forehead. Hai Shi glanced at Minglan's flat stomach. Quange looked at his brother sleeping like a little pig. Sitting in the rosewood armchair by the window, Minglan smiled foolishly, unaware: "How far along?"
"Over two months," Doctor Lin replied wryly—he'd never seen such an energetic pregnant woman. "The pulse is steady and strong. There's no need for concern, though you've been overworking yourself recently. Some proper rest will suffice." After offering a few more instructions, he bowed and left the room.Old Mrs. Sheng sat woodenly on the bed, remaining silent for a very long time. Suddenly, she erupted in fury, slapping the bed frame as she scolded, "Get back home this instant! Return today!" Turning to Mama Fang, she ordered, "Go pack her things, including her husband's! You personally escort her back to the Marquis residence and hand her over to Cui Mama. Make sure nothing goes wrong!"
She then fiercely pounded a soft pillow and pointed at Minglan, "You troublesome little wretch! The two of you have been freeloading meals here! If you dare delay another moment, I'll break your legs!"
Seeing her grandmother truly enraged, Minglan scurried away like a frightened rat, obediently following Mama Fang. Hai Shi smiled and led Quange out after them, leaving only the grandmother and grandson in the room, plus a tiny infant sleeping soundly on the heated kang who wouldn't understand anything even after waking.
"That wretched girl!" Old Mrs. Sheng had been restraining herself for a long time.
Changbai watched his grandmother with an amused expression. After a while, he suddenly knelt down: "Barring unforeseen circumstances, I should be reappointed to my position. Once you've recovered from your illness, grandmother, please come with me."
Old Mrs. Sheng remained silent in contemplation. Changbai said softly, "Grandmother already knows everything, doesn't she?" Old Mrs. Sheng smiled bitterly, "Mama Fang couldn't keep it from me. Ah, human hearts are unfathomable. Who would have thought at my age I'd encounter such strange circumstances."
Changbai looked up, "Grandmother, come with me to my post. Though it's not as prosperous as the capital, the people are simple and honest, with beautiful mountains and clear waters - the scenery has its own unique charm. Didn't you always want to travel around? Come with me."
Old Mrs. Sheng sighed, "It wasn't me who wanted to travel around, but Kong Momo. Her health was poor and she passed early. I've always wanted to fulfill this wish for her."
"This works out perfectly then," Changbai said. "My wife and I will take good care of you."
Looking into her grandson's clear, perceptive eyes, Old Mrs. Sheng sighed inwardly.
She understood his intention. She had always been someone who couldn't tolerate the slightest dishonesty, and Sheng Hong's recent scheming had truly discomforted her. Rather than putting on a show of motherly affection and filial piety when they met, it would be better to simply avoid each other. After several years apart, these matters would naturally fade.
"I'm just worried it might damage your reputation," she said. Since father and son are connected, if Sheng Hong's reputation suffers, Changbai would inevitably be affected.
"Don't worry, grandmother," Changbai reassured. "We can say there's a famous physician there, and I'm taking you to seek treatment."
Old Mrs. Sheng chuckled, "Be careful not to stretch that lie too far, or people might actually come looking for this famous physician at your place."
Changbai laughed, "Then we'll say the physician travels widely, cured you, and moved on again."
The old madam shook her head with a smile, suddenly feeling her heart lighten, the past grievances no longer seeming so despicable or hateful.
Outside the door, Hanniou listened with sweating palms: Oh no, oh no, it seems the young master has been speaking quite a lot in the inner quarters again today.
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