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The “she” referred to by Jiang Zhanwei and his brother was Miss Zhou. As she had never been raised to the status of a concubine, they couldn’t even address her as “mother”. Despite being their birth mother, they couldn’t simply call her “Miss Zhou,” so they referred to her as “she.”
Jiang Zhanwei made a firm decision that once he succeeded, he would not only control his own life and protect his siblings but also ensure that Second Master elevated “her” to the status of a concubine, granting her a recognized position.
Although displeased that “she” was an eyesore to Second Madam and disrupted their harmony, why should “she” be expected to bear children for him? It wasn’t as if “she” had seduced or forced herself into his bed, she came from a respectable family. They had actively pursued her, yet now they treated “her” in this manner…
Jiang Zhanwei continued, “I may not return to the residence often in the future, and I might even spend some time away from the capital. If you encounter any problems you can’t resolve in my absence, go directly to Grandmother or Third Uncle.”
Upon hearing that his brother might be leaving the capital, Jiang Zhankui’s eyes reddened, and he asked with a pout, “Brother, is it because of that woman that you’re leaving…”
Knowing his younger brother was astute, Jiang Zhanwei held nothing back and shook his head, saying, “That woman doesn’t have the power to make me leave. It’s my own decision. Only by leaving this home and joining the military can I truly realize my potential. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing for us siblings. You’re a young man, take care of yourself and protect your sister…”
Just as Jiang Zhankui had surprised Jiang Jiu with his loud voice, she woke up and hurried to the east room upon hearing that her brother had arrived. The nursemaid, Mama Gu, came out with clothes, calling, “Second Young Miss, get dressed and don’t catch a cold.”
With flushed cheeks and teary eyes, Jiang Jiu held onto Jiang Zhanwei’s robe and looked up, saying, “Brother is back. While you were away, I’ve been very obedient, not picky with food, and even drinking goat’s milk every day.”
Jiang Zhanwei smiled warmly, had Mama Gu help her dress, and then lifted her up, saying, “That’s good. Brother rewards you with osmanthus honey from Baofeng Pavilion and some steamed cakes…”
After exchanging a few more words, Jiang Zhanwei excused himself and headed to the Crane Hall.
Meanwhile, in the bedroom, Lu Man was giving a massage to old Marquis Jiang. It was physically demanding work, and she was exhausted, with Lu Ying occasionally wiping the sweat from her brow.
Suddenly, she heard the maid at the door reporting to Princess Changting, “Third Young Master has arrived.”
Lu Man’s hands paused momentarily during the massage, and although she continued, her touch became gentler. Her heart pounded in anticipation – she was about to meet that man? Would his return home lead to…
Thinking about the unfinished wedding night, Lu Man became even more nervous.
In her previous life, she had pursued a few people and had been pursued in return, and had been set up for blind dates dozens of times. While some didn’t find her suitable, most of the time, she found others lacking.
Despite numerous opportunities, she had only been in three short-lived relationships where there was minimal physical contact – just hand-holding and hugs, no kisses. One man even tried to kiss her the day after they met, and she immediately shut him down.
Her standards were high, if a man didn’t meet her criteria in looks or abilities, she wouldn’t give them a chance. But now, regardless of the man outside – his looks, abilities, or compatibility – she couldn’t refuse…
Princess Changting was reclining on a couch in the east room, resting. She had heard that Jiang Zhanwei had returned, but waited half an hour before being informed of his arrival. Thinking about the task she had for her grandson, she suppressed any displeasure and sat up, opening her eyes.
Jiang Zhanwei entered and bowed to her. She waved him over, smiling, “Zhanwei, come here to your grandmother.”
Jiang Zhanwei hesitated but obediently approached her.
The Princess smiled, pulled him to sit beside her, and patted his hand, saying, “Your father and I are upset about you not coming home.”
Apart from “her” showing such affection towards him in his childhood, no elder had ever treated him this way. Especially the Princess, who had always remained distant, hardly speaking to him.
Unaccustomed to such warmth, Jiang Zhanwei blushed and replied, “Grandson dare not trouble you, Grandmother.”
Observing her grandson, the Princess had never been this close or observant of him before. Previously, she had viewed him as academically and physically unimpressive, a bit lazy. He often skipped school when he was young, and his interests seemed trivial and inappropriate. He always kept his head down, far less impressive than the other legitimate grandchildren. The old Marquis often mentioned that the family shouldn’t have illegitimate children and, if they did, they shouldn’t treat them too well or let them excel too much. Otherwise, they might foster unjustified expectations, causing chaos in the family…
Therefore, she paid him even less attention.
Upon closer inspection of her grandson, the Princess couldn’t help but be impressed. Despite wearing slightly worn clothing, his fair complexion, handsome features, deep gaze, and remarkable demeanor rivaled any of the legitimate grandchildren dressed in finery. The aura of aloofness and radiance emanating from him exuded a commanding presence that surpassed the refined legitimate grandchildren, making him impossible to ignore.
Had this grandson changed, or had she misjudged him before… Surely, everyone in the family couldn’t have been mistaken?
The Princess regained her composure and said with a heavy heart, “You are my true grandson, and I cannot bear to see you suffer. That matter, both your father and I have no choice. With your grandfather’s illness, no matter which grandson, someone had to marry Miss Lu. Ultimately, you were chosen, and we regret forcing you to break off your engagement and marry her…”
Jiang Zhanwei pursed his lips, shaking his head, and replied, “Grandmother, you are being too harsh. If my sacrifice can contribute to my grandfather’s recovery, even if it costs my life, I would gladly offer it. From my perspective, the elders choosing me to marry Miss Lu means she is undoubtedly the best choice and they are favoring me.”
The Princess was pleased with his first statement but felt a surge of resentment at his contradictory follow-up. She squeezed his hand tightly, speaking more gently, “Miss Lu’s reputation may not be favorable, and her past actions may irk you. I understand your anger, as even a mud figure has some temper, let alone a living person. However, since she married for the sake of your grandfather’s recovery, all duties must be fulfilled completely. Incomplete actions would lack sincerity and be of no benefit to your grandfather.” Glancing at her bowed grandson, she added, “I see Lu Man as quite astute, composed in demeanor, and possessing a pleasant appearance. Perhaps her past mistakes were simply a moment of confusion. Now that she has realized her wrongs, apologized to me, and diligently massages your grandfather every day, she is showing filial piety.”
Jiang Zhanwei lifted his head and said, “Grandmother, Miss Lu sincerely shows respect for Grandfather, who has shown signs of improvement. Regardless of her past actions, I’ll accept her and endure.”