Chapter 35: Individual Thoughts

Old Madam Zhu realized her words might have been inappropriate and quickly backtracked. She smiled at Lu Man, saying, “Zhanwei’s wife, don’t misunderstand. I was talking about the past in our Jiang family, not Zhanwei. Although he comes from a humble background, he is a responsible and good child.”

Her words felt insincere, even causing her to furrow her brow. She wouldn’t have lied like that to a concubine’s daughter-in-law if not for fear of upsetting the Princess.

As old Madam Zhu’s words reached Lu Man’s ears, she felt it was time to speak up to uphold her integrity.

Wiping her mouth with a napkin, Lu Man responded, “We can’t choose our background, but we can choose the kind of person we become. I may be new here and unaware of the Jiang family’s history, but I know about my husband’s choices. He aims to be filial, loyal, and responsible. He didn’t hide anything, it’s just that his brothers overshadowed him. Once pushed into the spotlight, everyone realized he’s just as remarkable as the others.”

Her words both challenged old Madam Zhu and praised Jiang Zhanwei.

Lu Man’s response left old Madam Zhu speechless. Princess Changting intervened cheerfully, “Sister-in-law can’t let go of the past. It’s been decades, with three of the four already gone. Why dwell on them? Zhanwei’s wife is right, we can’t choose our background, but we can choose who we are. As long as an illegitimate son has a good heart, ambitions, and doesn’t covet what isn’t theirs, it’s a good thing for the family. I misjudged before, but once my husband wakes up, I’ll talk to him too.” She glanced approvingly at Lu Man, adding, “In harmony, both of you are dutiful and understanding children.”

With the tone set by the head of the family, the eldest Madam, second madam, third madam, young madam Han, and Jiang Ling all chimed in with praises and agreements.

Especially third madam, who was quite eloquent. She chuckled, “I’ve just noticed that Zhanwei’s wife is quite articulate. She praised Zhanwei and his brothers, making us all happy.”

Second Madam Lin, seemed to be in a world of her own, detached from Jiang Zhanwei’s affairs, showing no courtesy or acknowledgment.

After the meal, as everyone rose to leave the room, Lu Man intended to massage old Marquis. However, the Princess declined, saying, “Since Zhanwei is home today, go back and take care of him. Come again tomorrow.”

Jiang Zhanwei quickly interjected, “Grandfather’s health is crucial. Let Lu Man give him a massage.”

The Princess shook her head, stating, “Your grandfather has someone to massage him. It’s not the right time for these gestures. After the commotion today, you’re all tired.”

Third Madam added with a jest, “Grandmother pities her grandson. Knowing he only returns home once every ten days, she naturally doesn’t want to take away the new bride.”

The joke didn’t land well at all.

A few people chuckled in response, but Lu Man couldn’t even muster a forced laugh.

Nevertheless, Jiang Zhanwei continued, “Third Aunt is teasing her nephew. If there are any shortcomings on Lu Man’s part while I am away, I ask the elders to kindly guide her and not indulge her.” With a slight bow, he portrayed a caring demeanor, expressing hope for her improvement.

This remark elicited another round of laughter, leaving Lu Man feeling uneasy.

The Princess nodded, “Naturally, I also hope the two of you will get along well and avoid causing any more trouble. Your grandfather waking up will bring joy as well.”

After seeing off the Princess back to the main house, the others began to head outside.

At the Gate, they bid farewell to Old Madam Zhu and grandmother Zhu, helping them onto the carriage. The women and children dispersed to their respective courtyards, while Second Master, Third Master, along with Fifth Young Master and Fourth Young Master, headed towards the outer courtyard.

Jiang Yuanzhao (Second Master) was somewhat annoyed, muttering, “After his military service and the words from this morning, he thinks he’s all spirited, yet he acts just like that, so overprotective and coddling.”

Jiang Yuanchong (Third Master) chuckled, “Zhanwei only spends a day at home every ten days, it’s only natural to be concerned about his siblings.”

Inside the carriage, Grandmother Zhu asked old Madam Zhu quietly, “Why is Third Young Master Jiang so protective of Lu Man, showing no displeasure towards her? Is he truly considering the well-being of his ailing grandfather?”

Old Madam Zhu shook her head and responded, “No! The more illegitimate the child, the more arrogant and unruly they are. How could he not care about the embarrassing past of Lu Man? Hmph, Jiang Zhanwei’s words sound convincing, all sweet-talk to please the Princess and gain some benefits for himself, not to mention he finds Lu Man attractive. Once he gets what he wants and the novelty of the new bride wears off, he won’t keep her around.” Through gritted teeth, she muttered, “That little rascal, turns out he can’t even stand straight, but today he put on quite a show. Only my kindhearted old sister-in-law fell for his tricks.”

Thinking of the stunning Lu Man, Grandmother Zhu remarked, “Lu Man is truly a beauty, captivating even Third Young Master Jiang, will he be willing to let her go?”

Old Madam Zhu explained, “Men value reputation above all. Why else is Second Master Jiang so infatuated with Lin? It’s not because Lin is exceptionally beautiful – there are plenty of attractive women – but it’s her reputation…”

Eldest Madam Hong, Jiang Ling, and Young Madam Han walked towards Eldest Madam’s Minghe Hall. Supporting Eldest Madam’s arm, Jiang Ling inquired skeptically, “When did Third Brother change like this? Standing there so coldly, exuding such power, it’s chilling.”

Eldest Madam chuckled, “You’re worrying over nothing. He’s your cousin, even if not from the same household. What’s there to fear? Besides, he’s just a seventh-ranking military official, not capable of causing a stir. Now, your grandmother has listened to him due to your grandfather’s health, showing considerable reliance on Lu Man… how pleased they appear! However, no matter if your grandfather wakes up, their days won’t be any better. If he doesn’t wake up, it’s all for naught. And even if he does wake up, considering your grandfather’s attitude towards illegitimate children, they won’t benefit much. Also, who were the enemies of Lu Man’s maternal grandfather…”

………

Lu Man walked with Jiang Jiu following behind Jiang Zhanwei and Jiang Zhankui. At a fork in the road, Jiang Zhanwei stopped and said to Lu Man, “You should go back first. I’ll take my younger brother and sister back to Qingfeng Courtyard.”

Jiang Jiu pouted, “Why not invite Sister-in-law to our courtyard? Let her have dinner with us.”

Jiang Zhanwei gently replied, “Let’s do it another day. I need to talk to your brother, and you need to rest. No one is available to play with her.”

Lu Man also chimed in, “Let’s save it for another day. Jiu must be tired today, you should go rest.”

Jiang Jiu, indeed feeling weary, nodded, withdrew her small hand from Lu Man’s and placed it into Jiang Zhanwei’s large hand.