Volume One, Chapter 17: Qin Huaisheng Was Dragged into the Guest Room

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Today, the visitors were not only Madam Qin but also Qin Huaisheng, who came along. Although the two families had already begun discussing the marriage, this behavior was truly against custom. Before a marriage is formalized, the man and woman should not meet, especially when the wedding date had not even been set. The Marquis of Ding’an’s household seemed to look down on the Xu family to some extent. Xu Huaian was angry but dared not speak out. After all, it was the Xu family who first broke off the engagement, making him feel guilty. The Marquis of Ding’an’s family, unwilling to compete with the royal family for a bride, naturally vented their dissatisfaction and anger on Xu Huaian.

“Xu Fengyi, if you look down on the Marquis of Ding’an’s family, you might as well say so outright. Why humiliate my son like this? After all, my son was personally bestowed the title of ‘Top Scholar’ by the Emperor. Many noble daughters from distinguished families admire him!” Madam Qin, seeing Xu Huaian keep his head bowed, spoke even more recklessly. “My son is simple and sincere, especially devoted to your eldest daughter. Yet you turn around and climb to a higher branch, kicking my son aside. How can the Marquis of Ding’an’s family face the world in the future?”

She did not dare to reprimand Xu Zhiyi, for the imperial edict had already sealed the matter. Besides reclaiming the betrothal gifts today, Madam Qin also hoped to extract some benefit from the Xu household. As she looked around, her brows gradually furrowed. There was no sign of the betrothal gifts, and the servants had already discreetly avoided the area. Thus, even if Madam Qin wished to make a fuss, it was difficult.

Xu Huaian forced a conciliatory smile and finally spoke, “Madam Qin, please do not be angry. This is indeed the fault of the Xu family, but the Emperor has already issued the decree. We cannot disobey the imperial command. Both I and Huaisheng are subjects; the king’s orders are paramount and must be obeyed.”

Qin Huaisheng kept his head down, making it hard to read his emotions. He was not fixated on Xu Zhiyi, but considering the Marquis of Ding’an’s current situation, he could not help but resent Xu Zhiyi’s shamelessness. He confidently believed that Xu Zhiyi should be grateful to marry him. He did not care for her, but she must be devoted to him wholeheartedly! He hated Xu Zhiyi for betraying their engagement and despised her for only aiming to climb higher socially. One day, she would regret today’s decision.

Madam Qin continued to curse, each phrase more offensive than the last. Xu Huaian suppressed the anger in his eyes and listened patiently. They say you don’t strike a smiling face, but Madam Qin felt as though she was punching cotton. She ranted for nearly half an hour before finally falling silent.

“Huaisheng, the residence recently transplanted many rare flowers and plants. Why don’t you take a stroll in the garden?”

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Qin Huaisheng glanced at Madam Qin, and upon seeing his mother nod, he rose and cupped his hands. “Then I won’t keep you from your conversation any longer.”

The people of the second branch had been waiting under the corridor. Seeing only Qin Huaisheng emerge, their faces lit up with joy. “Quick, report back to the Second Madam! Tell her it’s settled.”

The young servant dared not delay and hurried away at a brisk pace.

At the Wutong Courtyard, Xu Zhiyi listened to Xiao Yuer’s report and smiled gently. “Good, I understand.”

Seeing her indifferent, Xiao Yuer hesitated before speaking, “Miss, I don’t know what schemes the second branch is brewing again. Do you want to go have a look?”

Xu Zhiyi held a rolled-up book in her hand and did not look up. “As long as they don’t target us, it’s fine. Have you finished the tasks I assigned you? There’s no time to worry about the second branch’s affairs.”

Xiao Yuer lowered her head awkwardly, nervously twisting her fingers. “I was thinking that since Young Master Qin once had an engagement with you, if something were to happen to him, you might feel guilty.”

Xu Zhiyi’s expression darkened swiftly, a cold light flickering in her eyes. “Xiao Yuer, you must never say such things again! He is no good man. Besides, I am already a princess-to-be. Every word and action must be cautious, understand?”

One must be careful with their words. “Before doing anything, one must first ensure absolute safety. After all, life is precious…”

Recalling Xiao Yuer’s tragic death in her previous life, Xu Zhiyi’s eyes welled with tears, but she quickly composed herself. “You may leave now. Oh, and call Aunt Wu in here.”

Xiao Yuer, realizing she had spoken out of turn, apologized profusely and withdrew. She felt the young lady had changed greatly, almost like a different person. The once timid young lady was now sharp-tongued and vengeful, which, upon reflection, was quite satisfying.

Aunt Wu soon entered. She was efficient in her work, though a bit loud. “Young lady, you called for me? Please tell me what you need!”

Xu Zhiyi quietly rubbed her ear.

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“Aunt Wu, I heard that a bride’s dowry must be registered at the government office. Is that true?”

“I lost my mother young and never learned these things. I thought to ask you so we don’t embarrass the Prince of An’s household later.”

Her voice was soft, tinged with helplessness and sorrow.

Aunt Wu, having witnessed countless power struggles in the palace, genuinely felt concern for this innocent young lady. “Miss, yes, that is the custom. You might be unfamiliar, but surely Lord Xu understands?”

Her words carried an unspoken accusation toward Xu Huaian for neglecting this marriage. To treat an imperial betrothal so carelessly—how could he not be punished?

Xu Zhiyi pressed her fingers to her brow and sighed softly. “I cannot blame Father entirely. My nature is too rigid, and he does not favor me. Besides, the household lacks a mistress, and Father is overwhelmed with trivial matters. It’s understandable if he forgot one or two insignificant things.”

Upon hearing this, Aunt Wu angrily slapped her thigh. “That’s no excuse! Your engagement to the Prince of An was personally granted by His Majesty. If Lord Xu neglects it, does that mean he resents the Emperor? Don’t worry, Miss, I will go register it for you right away!”

Without waiting for a response, Aunt Wu left as briskly as she had come.

Xu Zhiyi lowered her gaze and sipped the tea on the table. Once the registration is done, Mistress Lin will find it difficult to tamper with things. Besides, after ten lashes, one cannot leave the bed for a couple of months.

The dowry had long been stored in the warehouse, but as a princess-to-be, it was inappropriate for her to visit the government office herself; rumors would surely spread. Xiao Yuer was young and simple-minded, unsuitable to take the lead. Aunt Wu was an experienced palace elder who had served the mother of the Third Prince. Even if Xu Huaian was angry, he could only endure it.

Thinking of Xu Huaian’s helpless anger brought a sense of satisfaction.

Only Xiao Yuer was among the accompanying maids, which seemed a bit meager. Xu Huaian had sent a few more, but Aunt Wu, perceptive as ever, tactfully declined them on Xu Zhiyi’s behalf.

Those few maids were all close to Mistress Lin, who was even more ambitious than Xu Huaian, scheming to plant spies in the Prince of An’s household.

Xiao Yuer peeked cautiously into the room. “Miss, Young Master Qin was dragged to the guest room by the second branch’s servant. Hehe, I saw the second branch’s Miss Yan enter afterward. There’s definitely going to be trouble in the house today!”

Xu Zhiyi gave her a sharp look. “Stop daydreaming. Go mind your own business!”