Madam Jiang’s face turned red as she realized she had misspoken. In noble families, only the legitimate mother was acknowledged, never the birth mother. Her words today had indeed been a grave misstep!

Old Madam Li’s expression remained cold, and her tone was no longer polite. She said, “Wanru has been in this household for many years. As long as she follows the proper conduct, Madam Jiang need not worry about her well-being in the manor. Nanny Zhang, go and inform the madam that her second sister-in-law has arrived. I’m sure she will be delighted.”

“Thank you, Old Madam.” Madam Jiang smiled, rose to her feet, and bid farewell.

Ouyang Nuan smiled slightly. “Second Aunt, there’s no need to be so formal. Grandmother has always been kind and understanding. Please remind Mother to take good care of herself and recover soon.”

────ρя


Upon entering Furui Courtyard, Madam Jiang saw that Nanny Wang was already waiting at the entrance. The moment she spotted Madam Jiang, she hurried forward to greet her.

Madam Jiang first inquired, “How is your mistress?”

Nanny Wang’s face was clouded with worry. She said, “You should go in and see for yourself.”

Madam Jiang frowned and followed Nanny Wang into the room. Lin Wanru was already seated at the table, waiting. When she saw the maid lift the curtain and Madam Jiang entered, she quickly stood up and led Madam Jiang to sit on the kang bed by the window. She personally handed Madam Jiang a cup of tea. “Second Sister-in-law.”

“You called me here in such haste. Is there something urgent?” Madam Jiang asked.

Lin Wanru’s eyes instantly turned red, looking utterly aggrieved. “It was supposed to be a joyous occasion, but now it has become a disaster.”

“What exactly happened?” Madam Jiang frowned. Before, when Old Madam Li saw her, though the other party hadn’t been overly warm, she had at least been polite. But today, after just a few words, the other party’s expression had turned cold and harsh. This had already made Madam Jiang suspicious. The messenger had only said it was an urgent matter and insisted she come in person, refusing to explain further. Now it seemed the issue was indeed serious.

“Second Madam, you don’t know yet that our mistress is pregnant. It should have been a heaven-sent blessing, but for some reason, Abbess Hui’an declared that the child is a ‘Heavenly Calamity Lone Star’! This is undoubtedly the work of the eldest miss! But the old madam and the master are both furious with our mistress, and I fear this child will not be allowed to survive!” Nanny Wang sobbed as she spoke.

Madam Jiang froze. “Heavenly Calamity Lone Star?” Her mind spun rapidly. That Abbess Hui’an held a revered status in the capital, so how could a mere young girl like Ouyang Nuan have managed to sway her? Unless…… was the grand madam also involved? Madam Jiang was sharp and astute, instantly connecting the crucial points.

“Second Madam, do you think there’s a way to remove this ominous label?” Nanny Wang pressed on anxiously.

Madam Jiang sighed. “Abbess Hui’an’s status is extraordinary, and even the empress dowager regards her highly. If you wish to overturn her words, it’s absolutely impossible for now.”

“Does that mean we have to just sit by and let them take my child? Second Sister-in-law, this child is my only hope! I have waited for so many years for this! You know that! Please, you must help me!” Lin Wanru pleaded desperately.

Madam Jiang nodded and pondered for a moment before coming up with a plan. “This matter is both difficult and not difficult. Fortunately, you sent for me in time. With your elder brother and me here, even if the old madam and your husband wish to act against the child, they won’t dare to make a move so easily. First, we must ensure the child’s safety. As for the ominous label, we can find a way to remove it later. No matter how ruthless they are, once they see their own kin, their hearts will surely soften. But you must be careful. No matter how much you suffer in these coming days, you must endure it. Do not act on impulse and ruin everything.”

That was precisely Lin Wanru’s plan, but hearing Madam Jiang say it out loud gave her a stronger sense of reassurance. Her face lit up with a smile. “Second Sister-in-law, you are truly thoughtful.”

Madam Jiang smiled and said, “Just focus on taking care of yourself. When the child is born, with a minister of war as his uncle, he will never suffer. Besides, your second brother’s future won’t stop here.”

Lin Wanru’s eyes gleamed. “You mean my eldest brother……?”

Madam Jiang smirked coldly. “He won’t last much longer. One day, Marquis Zhengou’s title will be ours. But you must give birth to a son as soon as possible. Otherwise, everything will be for nothing.”

Lin Wanru nodded eagerly, but her eyes could not hide her satisfaction. As long as her elder brother inherited the Marquis Zhengou title, she would become the sister of a noble lord. By then, her child would undoubtedly inherit the Ouyang family’s legacy! That so-called ‘Heavenly Calamity Lone Star’ was nothing but nonsense!

As soon as Madam Jiang left, Lin Wanru immediately changed her attire. She draped herself in a crimson robe embroidered with gold, its wide sleeves flowing elegantly. A pale yellow skirt with lotus-leaf edges and a phoenix-tail design complemented her look. She adorned her hair with a phoenix hairpin of pure gold inlaid with a ruby, paired with large ruby earrings. Glancing at her reflection, she still found the ensemble lacking in grandeur, so she added a rose-red mink-fur cape. With this transformation, the resentment and pallor that had clung to her earlier vanished, replaced by a radiant, joyous air.

“Madam……” Nanny Wang hesitated, wanting to speak but holding back.

Lin Wanru let out a cold laugh. “I want them to see that in this household, I alone am the true mistress. Just because they have the old madam’s backing, they think they can climb over my head? Let them wait and see— one by one, I will deal with them all!”

With a composed smile, Lin Wanru walked gracefully toward Shou’an Hall. As the maid lifted the curtain for her entrance, she had yet to step inside when she heard Old Madam Li’s laughter from within.

Inside the room, Ouyang Nuan had just told a joke, amusing Old Madam Li, while Li Yue’e sat beside them, smiling and playing along. The atmosphere was warm and harmonious.

Li Yue’e had styled her hair into a fallen horse bun, tucking two small pomegranate blossoms no larger than fingernails into her dark, cloud-like tresses. She wore a lake-green, plain floral robe, her delicate eyes carrying a misty charm and her posture as soft as a willow in the breeze. She was an image of frail beauty, pitiable yet endearing. At the sight of her, Lin Wanru was filled with disgust. But outwardly, she maintained an expression of joy, stepping forward to greet Old Madam Li with a bow. “Mother.” She said with a smile. “What is the occasion for such merriment?”

Her previous depression had completely lifted following Madam Jiang’s visit.

Old Madam Li’s smiling face suddenly turned cold. Li Yue’e’s lively demeanor also changed, and she lowered her gaze to her feet as if she had neither seen nor heard anything.

Ouyang Nuan smiled and said, “Mother is here. Please, have a seat.”

“If Mother does not allow it, how could I dare to sit?” Lin Wanru said with a seemingly earnest smile.

“You are certainly polite.” Old Madam Li remarked indifferently, sipping her tea before instructing Nanny Wang to prepare a seat. “You are with child, so you should sit while you speak.”

Lin Wanru expressed her gratitude and sat down gracefully.

Old Madam Li asked, “After taking the physician’s medicine, has your health improved?”

Lin Wanru smiled and replied, “Thank you, Mother, for your concern. I feel much better now. Perhaps it is true that joyful events bring a lively spirit. I feel as though this child and I are deeply connected.”

At those words, Old Madam Li’s gaze turned cold as she cast a glance at Lin Wanru’s abdomen, an unreadable chill in her eyes. “It seems you are quite fond of this child.”

Lin Wanru’s sharp gaze immediately locked onto her, eyes flashing with intensity. “Mother……” There was even a glimmer of moisture at the corner of her eyes.

“No need to be so tense.” Old Madam Li said indifferently. “Since even the minister of war’s wife came to visit you personally, you should recover quickly and ensure the birth of a healthy child.”

Hearing that, Lin Wanru finally felt a weight lift from her heart. It appeared that the old madam had changed her mind and decided to let the child stay. As for the reason, it was certainly not because she had suddenly seen reason, but rather because Madam Jiang’s visit had made her realize that Lin Wanru had powerful backing, forcing her into a temporary compromise.

“Yes.” Now that her goal was achieved, Lin Wanru responded cheerfully, her gaze shifting toward Li Yue’e and Ouyang Nuan.

Li Yue’e maintained a calm expression, as though she had heard nothing— neither happy nor sad. Yet deep in her eyes, a trace of jealousy and resentment could not be concealed. Meanwhile, Ouyang Nuan watched Lin Wanru with a warm smile, as if she were genuinely delighted at the prospect of Lin Wanru giving birth to a son.

Why couldn’t Ouyang Nuan be as easy to read as Li Yue’e? Lin Wanru thought angrily to herself.

────ρя


Time passed swiftly, and Ouyang Manor remained peaceful. Under Old Madam Li’s direct instruction, Li Yue’e gradually took over the household management. She was obedient and sensible, handling all matters according to rank without excessively encroaching on others’ interests. If she ever encountered a difficult decision, she would consult Old Madam Li, ensuring that everything ran smoothly.

For his part, Ouyang Zhi did not care who managed the household. As long as order was maintained and the servants remained efficient and disciplined, he was satisfied. The only one furious about the change was Lin Wanru. Under the pretense that she needed rest during her pregnancy, Old Madam Li had extended the suspension of her household authority from half a month to the duration of her pregnancy.

How could she accept this? Lin Wanru resorted to every trick— falling ill, fainting, vomiting, sobbing to Ouyang Zhi— but this time, he remained resolute. No matter how much she acted up, he ignored her, barely even stepping foot in Furui Courtyard, as if fearing that the unborn child might bring him misfortune. Moreover, pregnancy had inevitably diminished Lin Wanru’s beauty. Ouyang Zhi naturally preferred seeking pleasure with the young and alluring Li Yue’e instead.

Seeing the situation turn against her, Lin Wanru finally suppressed her frustration and focused solely on nurturing her pregnancy. She vowed to give birth to a healthy son and prove herself to everyone. Deep in her heart, she was determined to make this child inherit the Ouyang family name and forever shatter the calamity star reputation that was plaguing him!

Madam Jiang came once more after that visit, this time bringing a maid named Jiaoxing, specifically stating that she was a gift from the minister of war’s wife to Madam Lin.

At first, Li Yue’e was unaware of Jiaoxing’s influence. When she went to pay her respects to Lin Wanru, Jiaoxing blocked her at the door, saying that Lin Wanru was unwell and asked her to wait. Li Yue’e stood outside in the cold wind for an entire hour, yet Lin Wanru never met her in the end. Upon returning, Li Yue’e naturally fell seriously ill. When Ouyang Zhi, feeling pity for her, asked how she had caught the cold, Li Yue’e, too weak to speak, remained silent. However, the maid beside her, indignant on her behalf, exaggerated the story while recounting it.

Ouyang Zhi, furious, stormed over to seek justice. However, Lin Wanru’s eyes turned red as she softly said, “Husband, I have been unwell and truly had no knowledge of this matter. If Concubine Li were referring to any other maid or servant in my courtyard, I would allow her to handle them as she pleases. But Jiaoxing is different. You know that my second sister-in-law sent her specifically to care for me during my pregnancy. If you punish her, wouldn’t that be a public embarrassment to my second sister-in-law? And in turn, wouldn’t it also make my second brother lose face?”

Her words were crystal clear— Jiaoxing was a gift from the minister of war’s wife, not a servant of Ouyang Manor to be dealt with at will. If he laid a hand on her, it would be the same as slapping Lin Wenyuan’s face. Ouyang Zhi was merely an assistant minister of personnel, while Lin Wenyuan was the minister of war— an official rank above him. In the imperial court, even a single rank difference could crush a person. Did he dare to try?

Ouyang Zhi’s fury instantly dissipated, and he left with only a few embarrassed words. After this encounter, Li Yue’e finally realized Jiaoxing’s power and began avoiding her altogether. Seeing that even the master’s favorite concubine had to keep her head down, Jiaoxing became even more brazen. Soon, everyone in Ouyang Manor knew that the madam had a formidable maid by her side.

────ρя


Ouyang Nuan returned to Tingnuan Pavilion as usual. In the courtyard, everyone was busy with their tasks, but upon seeing the eldest miss arrive, they all paused to greet her.

However, when they reached the porch, not a single servant was stationed there.

Nanny Fang, angered by this, was about to scold them when Ouyang Nuan raised her hand to stop her. “No need to be angry, Nanny. Let’s first see what’s going on.”

Turning past the corridor, they saw a few young maids and two old female servants gathered around another maid, whispering among themselves. The maid at the center was wiping her tears, her nose red from crying.

As soon as they saw Ouyang Nuan approaching, the old female servants quickly stood up with smiles on their faces, while the young maids looked uneasy and immediately fell silent.

Nanny Sun hurried over and, without delay, handed Ouyang Nuan a hand warmer. “Eldest Miss, I’ve kept adding charcoal— it’s still warm!”

Ouyang Nuan smiled slightly as she took it, but Nanny Fang’s expression turned cold. “Nanny Sun, what is happening in this courtyard? Why is everyone idling around gossiping instead of working? How are you managing things?”

Nanny Fang was Ouyang Nuan’s most trusted aide, so Nanny Sun dared not put on airs. With a forced smile, she explained, “Nanny Fang, you misunderstand. Baojuan had a little accident while she was out just now. She slipped and fell. Huiyu and the others were just trying to comfort her.”

“Oh? She fell?” Ouyang Nuan glanced at Baojuan, who kept her head down, not daring to meet her gaze. She thought to herself, A fall that could leave a clear five-finger mark on her face? Now that is truly unheard of.

Baojuan had always been timid and never caused trouble. She merely lowered her head, silent and afraid to speak. However, Huiyu, who was more outspoken, pointed at Baojuan’s face and said directly, “Eldest Miss, Baojuan didn’t just fall, someone hit her!”

Nanny Sun’s heart sank. She had spent all that time trying to smooth things over, yet Huiyu had dared to blurt out the truth in front of the eldest miss! In a hurry to cover things up, she quickly interjected, “Eldest Miss, don’t listen to this girl’s nonsense. Baojuan accidentally broke a bowl earlier, and I was momentarily angry and gave her a slap……”

Huiyu wanted to say more, but under Nanny Sun’s fierce glare, she puffed up her cheeks in frustration and fell silent.

“Nanny Sun has always been kind, why would you suddenly hit someone over such a trivial matter?” Ouyang Nuan said lightly. Then she turned and ordered, “Hongyu, go investigate this matter thoroughly and report back to me.”

“Yes, Eldest Miss.”

Nanny Sun’s face flushed red, and she dared not speak again.

Ouyang Nuan returned to her room, and before half a stick of incense had burned, Hongyu lifted the curtain and entered. “Young Miss, here’s what happened. This morning, when Baojuan went to fetch your breakfast, Jiaoxing from the madam’s courtyard happened to be there as well. She insisted that the madam had a poor appetite today and wanted something different to eat. The kitchen steward told her that all breakfasts had already been accounted for in advance and that any special requests needed to be made ahead of time. But Jiaoxing refused to relent. The steward finally said he would prepare something fresh for the madam and asked her to wait. At that moment, she saw Baojuan carrying a food box and immediately rushed up, lifted the lid, and forcibly snatched away the bowl of jujube millet porridge. She claimed that since the madam is pregnant and in delicate health, she cannot go hungry, and that Young Miss should wait instead. Baojuan couldn’t hold back and tried to argue, but she ended up receiving a slap from Jiaoxing.”

“Oh……” Ouyang Nuan listened, then let out a cold laugh. On the surface, it seemed like nothing more than a dispute over a bowl of porridge. But in reality, it was just an excuse to slap her maid in public. Jiaoxing was truly bold, and the person behind her was undoubtedly scheming with great effort. Outwardly, they acted as if they were peacefully nurturing a pregnancy, yet in the shadows, they were still stirring up trouble! Very well. If they refused to enjoy peaceful days and insisted on seeking misfortune, then they had only themselves to blame.

“Hongyu, I heard that Jiaoxing is quite beautiful. Is that true?” Ouyang Nuan’s brows arched slightly, her gaze shimmering with an indescribable charm.

“Young Miss, that girl has a slender figure, fair skin, and delicate features. She’s indeed quite striking.” Hongyu recalled carefully and answered seriously.

A beauty, with a sharp temper, and utterly obedient to Lin Wanru. Madam Jiang must have sent such a person over with the intent of having Lin Wanru arrange for Ouyang Zhi to take this maid as a concubine, thereby ensuring he remained in Furui Courtyard. This would also serve as a warning to those restless concubines. However, Lin Wanru was an exceedingly jealous woman, and there was no way she would tolerate a stunning maid gaining favor. In that case, Jiaoxing’s usefulness would be greatly diminished.

“Hongyu, in a little while, instruct the kitchen to prepare some exquisite pastries and deliver them to Furui Courtyard.” Ouyang Nuan said slowly, her eyes gleaming with a mischievous glint.

“For the madam?” Hongyu asked in confusion. In the past, the young miss had always delivered such things personally. Why today……

“No, send them to Jiaoxing.” Ouyang Nuan replied with a faint smile, winking at her.

────ρя


When Hongyu arrived at Furui Courtyard, Jiaoxing was indeed standing at the door, her pretty face frosty. “Madam is unwell and resting. If the eldest miss has any instructions, please tell me, and I will report them inside.”

Hongyu smiled sweetly. Seeing that Nanny Wang was watching from the corridor with a cold gaze, she raised her voice deliberately, “I’m not here to see the madam. This morning, a small misunderstanding occurred, and one of our courtyard’s maids offended you. Eldest Miss felt uneasy about it, so she specially asked me to bring you some pastries as an apology on her behalf.”

With that, Hongyu opened the food box, revealing the first layer— a small plate of jujube yam cakes and another of water chestnut cakes. When she lifted the second layer, there was a dish of osmanthus-sugar steamed chestnut cakes, still warm and fragrant.

Nanny Wang glanced over and sneered inwardly. This eldest miss was truly skilled at winning people over. Just a minor incident, yet she went so far as to send a gift to apologize. To outsiders, it would seem as if she was kind-hearted and generous. But looking at how she dealt with the madam, it was clear that beneath her smile lay sharp claws— a true smiling tiger^[1]someone who appears friendly but is actually dangerous or ruthless. With a cold snort, Nanny Wang turned and left.

One could not strike a smiling face. Even though the madam detested Ouyang Nuan, Jiaoxing couldn’t just drive out a Hongyu who had arrived with such a pleasant demeanor. Jiaoxing had initially thought the other party had come to retaliate for the morning incident, but unexpectedly, she was there to apologize instead. Jiaoxing’s frosty expression could no longer hold, and she said awkwardly, “You are too courteous. Please, come inside and have a seat.”

Inside the room, Hongyu placed the food box on the table, then took out a red silk pouch from her sleeve and handed it over. “Eldest Miss asked me to bring this to you. She said that since the madam is pregnant and Nanny Wang is getting older, you, Sister Jiaoxing, are now the most trusted person by the madam’s side. This morning’s matter was just a misunderstanding, and Eldest Miss hopes you won’t take it to heart.”

Jiaoxing accepted it suspiciously and opened it to find two gold rings, a ruby-inlaid hairpin, and a pearl hair ornament. Her face immediately lit up with a smile. “Oh, this is too much……”

No wonder everyone in Ouyang Manor praised the eldest miss’s kind nature. Even though she had been bullied, instead of retaliating, she had taken the initiative to apologize and send gifts. That was truly rare.

“Eldest Miss has the kindest heart. Since she has given them to you, she will not take them back. Please, Sister Jiaoxing, accept them without worry.”

Jiaoxing’s smile unconsciously grew brighter. She quickly fetched a stool for Hongyu, and the previously tense atmosphere between them eased considerably.

Hongyu glanced around the room, which, though tidy, was obviously small and cramped. She remarked, “I’ve always heard that Sister Jiaoxing is a straightforward person. Seeing how neatly and beautifully this little room is kept, it’s clear that you are both clever and capable.”

Jiaoxing smiled but felt somewhat displeased in her heart. She had arrived the latest and was given the worst room, having to share it with others. It was far from what Madam Jiang had promised her. However, she couldn’t reveal her dissatisfaction in front of Hongyu, so she merely forced a smile and said, “You must be joking. I’m just a maid. Keeping things tidy is part of my duty.”

Hongyu chuckled and asked, “Sister, what kind of person are you? You won’t be living in this kind of room for long, so why bother tidying it up?”

Jiaoxing was momentarily stunned, her gaze flickering slightly as she replied, “I’m just a maid. If I don’t live in a place like this, where else could I stay……”

Hongyu smiled faintly and said, “Sister, there’s no need to hide it from me. Everyone in the household already knows……” She deliberately dragged out her words. “The madam is pregnant, and at this time, the second madam of Marquis Zhengou Manor has sent such a beauty like you here. Do I even need to say more?” She then pointed toward the main building in the east, where Lin Wanru lived.

Jiaoxing forced a smile upon hearing that. “The second madam sent me here to serve the madam, nothing more. Sister, please don’t misunderstand.”

“How do you explain this, then?” Hongyu feigned a look of astonishment and continued, “I heard that a few days ago, Steward Miao came on behalf of his son to propose marriage to the madam. And the one he wanted to marry was you! Steward Miao’s son serves under the master, he is handsome and has a promising future. Many maids in the manor would envy such a good match. Yet, the madam firmly refused, saying that you were sent by the minister of war’s wife and that she had no right to decide your fate. Afterward, Steward Miao went around telling people that you were meant to become the master’s concubine…… Everyone knows about this now!” She then muttered to herself, as if puzzled, “But why hasn’t the madam allowed the master to take you in yet?”

Jiaoxing never expected Hongyu to say such things. Back then, Madam Jiang had indeed hinted that she should come there to help the madam secure the master’s heart. Because of that, she had always believed that Lin Wanru would eventually have Ouyang Zhi take her in. However, after waiting for a full two months, Lin Wanru had yet to make a move. This realization left Jiaoxing increasingly anxious.

Hongyu suddenly exclaimed, “Ah! Why am I saying all this? These matters are for the madam to decide. Sister, you should just wait for your good days to come.”

Jiaoxing’s smile became even more strained. After exchanging a few more casual remarks, Hongyu stood up to take her leave. When she reached the door, she hesitated for a moment before turning back to look at Jiaoxing. “Sister, though we haven’t known each other for long, I feel that we get along quite well. Don’t blame me for speaking out of turn, but you should really start planning for yourself.”

Jiaoxing watched Hongyu leave with a complicated expression on her face and an indescribable feeling surged within her heart……

────ρя


As soon as Hongyu left, Lin Wanru immediately summoned Jiaoxing and stared at her, demanding, “What did Hongyu say to you?”

Jiaoxing forced a smile. “Madam, the eldest miss sent Hongyu over to apologize to me.”

“Nothing else?” Lin Wanru pressed on aggressively, her eyes fixed on Jiaoxing without blinking.

“She only asked if I was adjusting well to life in the residence. Oh, and she brought a food box filled with pastries. I haven’t touched any of them yet. Would Madam like to try some?” Jiaoxing asked softly.

Lin Wanru sneered, “Eating her food will only cause indigestion. You can keep it for yourself.”

Jiaoxing’s heart skipped a beat under Lin Wanru’s cold gaze. Lowering her head, she asked, “Does Madam have any other instructions?”

“That will be all. You may leave.” Lin Wanru’s expression returned to its usual calm as she dismissed Jiaoxing indifferently.

After Jiaoxing curtsied and left, Lin Wanru’s face darkened as she watched Jiaoxing’s retreating figure. She then turned to Nanny Wang and asked, “What do you think Ouyang Nuan means by this?”

“Madam, this old servant truly cannot guess what the eldest miss is thinking.” Nanny Wang replied, shaking her head. “In any case, Madam is currently pregnant. No matter how bold she is, she wouldn’t dare make a move against you right now.”

“Hmph! My child was cursed as a bringer of calamity because of her. What else wouldn’t she dare to do?” Lin Wanru scoffed coldly, her eyes filled with resentment.

Nanny Wang lowered her voice and said, “Madam, you can set the eldest miss’s affairs aside for now. This old servant will keep an eye on her. She won’t be able to stir up any trouble. But what about Jiaoxing? Have you decided what to do with her?”

Lin Wanru frowned and said, “Second Sister-in-law’s intention is clearly to have me arrange for the master to take her in, using her to keep him by my side. But……” She wasn’t willing to cultivate another rival for herself. If Madam Jiang had other motives, Jiaoxing could very well become another Concubine Zhou. Thinking of that, Lin Wanru’s expression grew even colder. “Second Brother may genuinely want to help me, but there is still a barrier between Second Sister-in-law and me. Who knows what she is really thinking? To be on the safe side, I’d rather choose a simple, obedient maid from my own people— someone easy to control.”

Just then, they suddenly heard a voice outside.

“Jiaoxing, what are you doing here?”

Jiaoxing’s panicked voice drifted in from outside, “I…… was afraid the madam might have other instructions.”

Lin Wanru’s expression changed as she exchanged a glance with Nanny Wang, who then swiftly rushed to the window, lifting the wooden lattice in one motion. Through the opening, Nanny Wang saw Jiaoxing’s hurried figure retreating into the distance. Closing the window securely, she returned to Lin Wanru’s side and said, “Madam, the words we just spoken……”

“It’s fine if she overheard.” Lin Wanru’s voice was indifferent. “Go inform Steward Miao that I have agreed to the marriage he requested. However, even after Jiaoxing weds, she will remain in my courtyard to serve. I still have use for her.”

“Madam, should we inform Madam Jiang……”

“No need.” Lin Wanru’s tone grew colder. “I will simply say that Jiaoxing and Steward Miao’s son are deeply in love and personally begged me to fulfill their wish. She won’t be able to hold it against me.”

Hearing her mistress’s firm decision, Nanny Wang sighed inwardly and did not press the matter further.

────ρя


That afternoon, Ouyang Nuan came to visit Lin Wanru. This time, Jiaoxing remained hidden inside, making no attempt to obstruct her. With no one to hinder her, Ouyang Nuan passed through the courtyard with ease.

When Nanny Wang received word of Ouyang Nuan’s arrival, she hurriedly stepped out to greet her. Seeing Ouyang Nuan dressed in a honey-colored cotton jacket, a pale silver-red front-clasped long coat, and a plain silk-cotton skirt, her face devoid of any makeup yet exuding an indescribable elegance, Nanny Wang couldn’t help but be astonished once again. She possessed the youthful charm of a young girl while maintaining a dignified air, appearing as if she had walked straight out of a painting.

A maid lifted the deep red embroidered curtain for Ouyang Nuan. She smiled faintly and stepped inside. She saw Lin Wanru sitting on a kang draped in crimson satin cushions, wrapped in a deep red astrakhan shawl. She wore a rose-red silk jacket embroidered with gold thread, a dark blue-gray mink-trimmed cloak, and a bright red silk skirt. The delicate emerald earrings set in red gold dangled at her cheeks, swaying slightly with each movement, making her look even more radiant and noble. However, the signs of pregnancy and her poor mood had dulled her complexion, and not even the best cosmetics could conceal the spots and exhaustion on her face.

A maid named Lixiang stood at the edge of the kang, holding a small lacquered tray with a lidded tea cup resting atop it. Just as Lin Wanru was about to take the tea, she caught sight of Ouyang Nuan and immediately replaced her cold demeanor with a warm smile. “In such frigid weather, it’s rare for you to think of coming over. Come, sit on the kang and warm yourself.”

Ouyang Nuan smiled softly and approached. “Mother, are you feeling any better?”

Lin Wanru replied, “Much better now. I have you to thank for always thinking of me.”

Ouyang Nuan sat at the edge of the kang. Lin Wanru was about to say something when she suddenly coughed. Ouyang Nuan immediately stepped forward to help soothe her. Taking the tea Lixiang handed over, she tasted a small sip to check the temperature before carefully supporting Lin Wanru as she drank. Ouyang Nuan’s expression was gentle, her movements natural and practiced. Watching this, Lixiang was momentarily dazed, thinking to herself that no matter who looked at this, they would assume the eldest miss was the madam’s own daughter.

Nanny Wang, observing from the side, felt a surge of complex emotions. The entire household now praised the eldest miss for her impeccable character, her open-mindedness, and her calm disposition. Her beauty was unparalleled, and compared to her, the second miss, Ouyang Ke, was far inferior. Yet only the madam knew the truth. This seemingly gentle and virtuous girl was in fact a ruthless and calculating figure. However, she was so meticulous that not a single misstep could be found in her conduct. If this continued, how would things unfold……?

Forcing a smile, Nanny Wang said, “Eldest Miss is truly gentle and considerate, no doubt accustomed to such duties after serving the old madam for so long.”

Ouyang Nuan turned her head and glanced at Nanny Wang. Nodding slightly, she said, “Mother is unwell and expecting my younger brother. Since she cannot serve Grandmother in person, as her daughter, it is only right that I fulfill my filial duty in her stead. Don’t you agree, Nanny Wang?”

Nanny Wang’s face stiffened. She quickly stole a glance at Lin Wanru’s now darkened expression before lowering her head and forcing a smile. “Yes, Eldest Miss is right.”

Nanny Wang had originally intended to mock Ouyang Nuan, to call her nothing more than the old madam’s lapdog. Yet, Ouyang Nuan had turned the remark back on Lin Wanru, subtly implying that Lin Wanru should be the one attending to the old madam instead. Everyone knew that ever since becoming pregnant, Lin Wanru had neglected her duty to visit the old madam…… This eldest miss was not one to suffer the slightest loss.

“Oh, Mother, I almost forgot the important matter I came for.” Ouyang Nuan said with a smile, as if the earlier exchange had never happened. “Grandmother’s birthday is on the fifth of February. I have written a calligraphy piece with the character for ‘longevity’ as a birthday tribute. However, I am unsure if it will suit Grandmother’s tastes and would like Mother’s opinion.”

Lin Wanru smiled faintly. “You should ask your father about such things. What do I know about calligraphy?”

She inwardly scoffed. A single character for ‘longevity’— how could that be considered a fitting birthday gift? She truly looked down on the gesture.

“Mother is right.” Ouyang Nuan said, still smiling. “I have already sent someone to invite Father over. I wish for both of you to assess it together, in hopes that Grandmother will like it.”

Although Lin Wanru still wore a smile on her face, she felt a deep sense of unease. What exactly did Ouyang Nuan mean by that? Why had she invited Ouyang Zhi and herself to appraise it together? Could there be some hidden agenda? Lin Wanru carefully thought it over. She had always kept to herself and had no weaknesses that could be used against her. That realization allowed her to feel slightly more at ease.

Ouyang Nuan and Lin Wanru exchanged a few pleasantries when suddenly, the curtain was lifted, and Jiaoxing burst into the room.

“Madam!” Her face was pale, but her eyes shone with an astonishing brightness. Her entire expression carried a sense of reckless desperation. The young maid who followed behind her was drenched in sweat, her face full of panic. “Madam, this servant couldn’t stop her……”

“What kind of behavior is this? Hurry and drag her out!” Just after sending someone to inform Jiaoxing that her marriage had been decided for her, she had rushed in like this. Surely, it couldn’t be anything good! Nanny Wang was furious and directed the servants to pull Jiaoxing out.

Jiaoxing’s willow-like brows shot up and her almond eyes widened with anger. “Who dares to touch me?!”

She had once been a favored senior maid by Madam Jiang’s side, both spoiled and strong-willed. Even after coming there, she had relied on the favor granted by the minister of war’s wife. Lin Wanru had often depended on her, and in Furui Courtyard, who didn’t yield to her at least three parts? Seeing her act so unruly now, everyone was momentarily stunned, unsure of what to do.

“Nuan’er, I have something to handle. You should return first.” Lin Wanru said upon seeing Ouyang Nuan standing to the side. It was inconvenient for her to act out in front of Ouyang Nuan and thus wanted to send her away first.

“Mother, what’s going on?” Ouyang Nuan asked, her expression tinged with curiosity. Her eyes shimmered as if she felt a little wronged. “Is there anything that a mother and daughter cannot speak of?”

Lin Wanru’s hands, resting on her dress, clenched tightly into fists. Her nails dug into her flesh, but she felt no pain. Yet, her face maintained its smile. “What nonsense are you saying, Nuan’er. As if I had something to hide from you? Very well, Jiaoxing, if you have something to say, speak.”

“Madam!” Jiaoxing fell to her knees with a loud thud. “This servant does not wish to marry Steward Miao’s son!”

As soon as those words were spoken, the atmosphere in the room became eerily strange.

Lin Wanru’s voice turned as cold as frost. “Jiaoxing, I am discussing something important with the eldest miss. If you have something to say, wait until later!”

“Madam!” Jiaoxing abruptly raised her head. “Madam, my former mistress did not send me here to become the wife of a steward’s son. Didn’t she tell you that?” Her sharp chin was lifted high, her eyes filled with indignation. “She sent me here to share your burdens and to serve the master!”

“You wretched girl……” Nanny Wang’s eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at Jiaoxing. “You— you’ve gone mad! How dare you say such things in front of the madam?!”

Ouyang Nuan’s expression remained calm as she observed Lin Wanru’s face instantly turn pale as snow. She turned to Jiaoxing and slowly said, “Second Aunt sent you here only to properly serve my mother. What nonsense are you speaking?”

Jiaoxing’s eyes shone with unwavering determination. “This servant was indeed sent to serve the madam, but my indenture contract is still with Marquis Zhengou Manor. Even if the madam wants to marry me off, if the second madam finds out, she will not agree!”

“So, what do you intend to do?” Ouyang Nuan’s voice was gentle and deliberate, each word falling lightly into the air like a soft spring breeze, yet strangely compelling.

A flicker of hesitation crossed Jiaoxing’s face for just a moment before it vanished. She had been sent to this manor because Madam Jiang had promised her the status of a concubine. That was practically half a mistress! She had not come there just to be married off to a steward’s son! Thinking of what Hongyu had told her, her resolve only deepened. She raised her voice and declared, “This servant begs Madam for mercy! If Madam no longer wishes to keep this servant, then please allow me to return to Marquis Zhengou Manor!”

“Impudent!” Lin Wanru’s face turned livid with rage.

Nanny Wang hurriedly stepped forward to gently pat Lin Wanru’s back, soothing her. “Madam is still with child, you must take care of yourself. Don’t let this shameless wretch upset you.” Then, turning sharply to Jiaoxing, Nanny Wang scolded, “Since you arrived at this manor, how has the madam treated you? You ingrate! If not for the madam’s protection, do you think you could have run rampant in this household? And now that you’ve grown wings, you dare to challenge the madam?!”

Jiaoxing froze, a trace of fear flashing across her face.

Ouyang Nuan sighed and said, “Jiaoxing, listen to yourself. Steward Miao’s son is marrying you as his second wife, but he still serves under my father. How would marrying him be a loss for you? Mother has carefully arranged this for you. You should think it through.”

Second wife?

Jiaoxing’s eyes practically burned with rage. With her looks, back in Marquis Zhengou’s Manor, countless stewards wished to marry her. Why would she go out of her way to come there just to be someone’s second wife? “Even if it is the madam, she cannot force this servant to do something I do not wish to!”

Lixiang, who had served Lin Wanru for many years and knew her mistress’s temperament well, could not bear to see Jiaoxing bring misfortune upon herself. She quickly stepped forward and grabbed Jiaoxing’s arm. “Jiaoxing, don’t speak to the madam this way……”

Jiaoxing recalled overhearing Lin Wanru saying she wanted to find a reliable and obedient maid to marry off. Her anger flared up at once, and she flung Lixiang’s hand aside. Coldly, she sneered, “Don’t pretend to be innocent. Do you think I don’t know? You’re just acting meek and obedient so that the madam will favor you and one day make you a concubine!”

Lixiang was stunned, unable to believe what she had just heard. She had genuinely meant to help, yet Jiaoxing had twisted her intentions like this! Truly, being kind was futile! As she lifted her gaze, she caught sight of Lin Wanru’s venomous, snake-like glare aimed directly at her. Terrified, Lixiang quickly knelt, bowing low. “Madam, please spare me! This servant would never dare to have such thoughts!”

Jiaoxing, however, paid no heed and continued, “Madam, ever since this servant was sent here by Marquis Zhengou Mansion, I have served you with all my heart, staying by your side day and night, sharing your burdens, and easing your worries. Even if I haven’t made great contributions, I have at least shown loyalty! How could you marry me off like this? Wouldn’t that be betraying my former mistress’ wishes?” She pulled out a handkerchief and began to weep. “Madam, it’s not that this servant intends to go against your wishes, but I truly cannot bear to leave you. In this household, Nanny Wang is getting old, and the other maids are too timid. If one day Madam is bullied, who will speak up for you? For the sake of all I have done, please, I beg you to keep me here!”

Ouyang Nuan sighed softly and said, “Mother, to be honest, Jiaoxing is quite an exceptional girl. To have her marry Miao Mu as a second wife would indeed be a waste.” She glanced at Jiaoxing, then continued, “If Mother really forces this marriage, Second Aunt may not be pleased either……”