Chapter 121 Night Visit to the Imperial Prison (part 2)
The imperial prison at night was completely silent, except for the occasional 'squeak' of rats and the faint sounds of a few jailers drinking and gambling from the place where there was a fire at the other end. These sounds reverberated and were especially terrifying.
The petty official also heard the sound of drinking and fun from the other end. His lip curled. He didn't get to have a few mouthfuls of the good wine and food that was bought with his money. Fearing that the good stewed beef would be eaten by the group of grandsons, he quickened his pace and led Mrs. Yu to turn another corner before arriving at the gate of the prison where the three members of Xiao Family were imprisoned.
He took out the oil and sweat covered key and opened one of the doors: "Go in quickly. I will take you out when the time comes."
After opening the door, he let Mrs. Yu in before locking the door again. He said: "I'll be next door. Give me a signal when you want to come out later."
After that, he turned around and walked to the nearby table where the prison guards ate and drank and sat down. He didn't dare to take it lightly as those inside committed capital crimes. If they escape, he won't be let off.
The three members of Xiao Family were imprisoned in separate cells, but were next to each other. Xiao Hai Ru, who hadn't yet fallen asleep, heard the sound of the door opening and immediately sat up. Seeing a woman dressed in black cloak come in, his eyes slightly closed as he stared straight at the familiar figure.
Taking off the cloak that covered most of her face, the husband and wife who had been separated for nearly three months met again in this dimly lit, stinking and permeating imperial prison.
"You..." Xiao Hai Ru's lips trembled slightly. He dazedly stared at her emaciated wife. For a moment, the husband and wife were speechless, quietly staring at each other quietly like two stones. Neither of them dared to take this step to walk toward each other.
After unknown amount of time, tearful Mrs. Yu broke the silence between the two. The normally decorous her plunged into Xiao Hai Ru's arms. Not minding him being unbathed and unchanged for a few months, she tightly hugged him as if she was unwilling to let go: "Master, you have suffered!"
Xiao Hai Ru sighed. This was the first time that the couple, who have been married for more than 20 years and have been respectful to each other, showed their inner emotions so enthusiastically. Hugging the person in his arms, Xiao Hai Ru expressed his concern: "Imperial Prison isn't a place you should come. How did you come in without stirring some noise?"
The husband and wife stood and hugged each other. After a while, Mrs. Yu came back to her senses. The lotus-like face was slightly flushed with embarrassment. The husband and wife recovered from the excitement.
"It's Su Family's little lass who used connections to allow this access, but it's only for an hour."
Yu took out two packs of food from the bag that she hid in her cloak as well as the thick fluff, indigo, fine cotton cloak she specially had made. Opening it, she placed it in front of Xiao Hai Ru: "Master, you must have eaten badly in here these days. Although we can't save you, we can only let you eat better and not get chilled by the cold at night. This way we can be at ease if you are well."
"I'm the one who dragged you down!" Xiao Hai Ru held the densely stitched cloak his wife made in a hurry. He was both moved and ashamed, "Now I'm here, this is the worst it can get. As long as you and Mother take good care of yourself outside, I can rest in peace even if I pass away."
Although Mrs. Yu felt as if she was being pricked by a needle when she heard him say this, one can't go against fate. What can she do?
The couple talked for another quarter of an hour before Mrs. Yu came out of Xiao Hai Ru's cell. Through the heavy cell door, she saw Eldest Son had lost a lot of weight. Tears kept falling like it didn't cost money: " Lin Yu!"
When the still awake Xiao Lin Yu heard the familiar voice, he raised his head in surprise. Looking outside in disbelief, his voice trembled unconsciously: "Mother?"
Was he seeing things? How could Mother appear in the imperial prison alone?
"My son!" Mrs. Yu was even more agitated than when she saw Xiao Hai Ru just now. If it weren't for being afraid of attracting others, she would have to hold his head and cry for a while.
Naturally, Mrs. Yu knew the doubts in his heart. So she told Xiao Lin Yu about her experiences during this period of time and finally said: "Mother was wrong before. I shouldn't look at You Jin like that. If it wasn't for her, we would have been bought by Bai Ya-er."
Only then did Xiao Lin Yu realize that she was the one who came all the way from Luohe Prefecture to the capital and rescued his Xiao Family's female family members. His love and gratitude for her increased in his heart.
"You Jin doesn't care about these people with superficial reputations. If she did, she wouldn't have rushed to the capital from Luohe Prefecture in the first place." Xiao Lin Yu thought of that bright girl and a faint smile appeared on his much thinner face. He spoke: "At first I was worried about what would happen to Mother and old Ancestors if we weren't here anymore. Now that she is here, I am relieved."
Mrs. Yu was amused by his proud reaction. For a while she didn't know whether to cry or laugh as she uttered: "You child!"
In fact, the mother and son weren't considered close in the past. Now it was the last time they saw each other, the barriers that have been between mother and son for more than ten years have all been broken. The two hushedly talked. Mrs. Yu did most of the babbling, while Xiao Lin Yu only occasionally interjected a sentence or two. Still, they were much closer than before.
The mother and son chatted for a long time. Mrs. Yu took out the cloak and food that was prepared for him: "This cloak was sewed with the help of You Jin. You have to be fine here."
"Mother, don't worry. I will take good care of myself." Xiao Lin Yu held the heavy cloak in his hand, nodded in agreement, knelt down on both knees, and gave Mrs. Yu three heavy knocks: "It's just that Son isn't filial. I can't see Mother in the future. Mother, please take care of yourself!"
Mrs. Yu never expect the normally calm and restrained Eldest Son would suddenly kneel down to her and say such a word that pierced her heart. The tears that had dried up flowed down again. She was speechless for a long time.
After coming out of Xiao Lin Yu's place, she went to see Second Master Xiao and gave him a cloak and food made by Mrs. Zhao mother and daughter, as well as Mrs. Zhao letter . Then, under the urging of the petty official, she left this prison where uncountless innocent souls have been imprisoned with her head turned at every third step.
After Mrs. Yu's night visit to the imperial prison, Mrs. Song and Mrs. Zhao's health gradually recovered. Under You Jin's suggestion, the female family members of Xiao Family followed You Jin on the journey back to Luohe Prefecture.
Back to Bai Ya-er, who had been struggling to find a chance to sort Xiao Family out. She could only get people to keep an eye on the movement of Sujiacha. When Bai Ya-er heard Xiao Family making a move and appeared to prepare to leave the capital, she suddenly had a plan in her mind. She called her confidant attendant and whispered a few words in a low voice. After listening to her words, Attendant Bai frowned: "Miss, isn't this bad?"
"Since I told you to do it, you go do it. It's just a few lowly slaves and mud legs who came out of the poor remote countryside. The world is currently chaotic. Even if one dies halfway, it must be caused by bandits and robbers, right?"
At this moment, Bai Ya-er's eyes were full of bloodthirsty madness. She deeply hated Xiao Family. If it weren't for them, how could she have fallen to the point where she was kicked out of the house by Grandfather?
Recalling how she begged Grandfather to let her back in Bai Family after the official slave auction, she was dismissed once again. Old Master Bai had a noble life all his life. How could he tolerate this granddaughter who dared to have a private relationship with a concubine-born son of an unpopular singer while she was engaged to Xiao Family and got caught by the victim, Xiao Family? Knowing that she came knocking, old Master Bai was so infuriated that his beard jumped up. Sitting in the armchair, he shouted angrily toward the outside: "Does she think that she can enter the gate of my Bai Family again after Xiao Family was over? Dream on! Although my Bai Family isn't a noble household, we don't have such a shameless daughter like her!"
Bai Ya-er, who hurried over to seek mend, never expected to be humiliated by old Master Bai in such a way? Returning to Xu's house after eating such a big loss, she witnessed Husband's eyes that were shining with expectation gradually become desolate and sad. Despite this, he still endured the disappointment to comfort her. The steam in Bai Ya-er's heart simply shot up sky high.
Now that Xiao Family were about to leave, who could she vent her anger to? It can only be said that people who were blinded by hatred can really do anything.
Attendant Momo raised her head and looked at Miss she brought up since she was a child. The originally beautiful and gentle face was full of distorted hatred. She couldn't help but sighed deeply in her heart. Her feeling toward Miss was like a mother and daughter. Although she knew that it was wrong for her to do so, she still followed the order.
Unforeseen, You Jin considered how the female family members of Xiao Family were all weaker and chose the slow but the smooth waterway. The person Bai Ya-er found followed them all the way on the official road and watched the target board the boat in the end. Since they couldn't find a chance, they had to turn back.
When Bai Ya-er heard the news, she smashed a good few teacups. You Jin and Xiao Family had already boarded a merchant ship to Luohe Prefecture and gradually moved away from the capital.
On the other side of the narrow courtyard assigned to Xu Zhi Tong by Xu Family, Xu Zhi Tong, who was studying in the study, heard his wife breaking the teacup and shouting uncontrollably from the main room. His lowered eyelids blocked the contempt in his eyes. If it wasn't for the sake of getting connected with old Master Bai, he had long since lost the patience to get entangled with this woman who seemed gentle and graceful but was actually ruthless on the inside.
Back to Su and Xiao Family. It was a smooth journey. On the boat, they watched the water for half a month and the scenery of trees on both sides of the bank changed little by little from the capital to the north. Finally, they entered the scope of Luohe Prefecture in late June.
"Look, old Madam, that's our home." On the plywood on the second floor of the merchant ship, You Jin supported Mrs. Song out for fresh air. The ship happened to sailed pass Wuliqiao. So she cheerfully pointed to a house with blue bricks and tiles on the bank in the front left. A few clumps of mountain flowers and fake stones were in front of the door. Behind the house was a mountain of green bamboo.
Mrs. Song squinted her eyes and looked in the direction she was pointing at. She was attracted by the benefits of this home with a lot of rural charm. Although it was located outside the city, a house of this size might not be affordable by ordinary people. After nearly two months of getting along, Mrs. Song already knew the general situation of Su Family. She couldn't help but appreciate and admire the little girl by her side.
Chapter 122 Return home
Su Family received a letter from Miss long ago. Mrs. Su estimated that her daughter should return within the next few days. Due to this, Su Family's driver would come to the pier every morning and wait. After waiting for three days, he finally brought Eldest Miss and the people she brought back.
"Eldest Miss! Eldest Miss! Our carriage is here!" The driver saw the Eldest Miss and Leader Guard Xiao from the distance and happily beckoned to the two.Then he quickly squeezed through the crowd to welcome: "Eldest Miss, you're finally back! "
You Jin cheerfully nodded. She was still by Mrs. Song's side, supporting her. She looked at the driver: "This isn't the place to speak. Let's go back and talk."
There were six-seven people. Fortunately, Su Family's carriage was large enough and they could squeeze in. After everyone was firmly seated, the driver shook his whip and hit the docile horse. The carriage noisily moved out of the dock and then went south to Wuliqiao. Shortly later, the carriage stopped steadily at the gate of Su's house.
Right now, Uncle Wang and another little servant, Chun Sheng watched the door. The little servant was very clever. When he heard the sound of a carriage outside, he rushed out. Seeing Leader Guard Xiao jump off from the carriage, he knew that Eldest Miss was back and hurriedly notified Uncle Wang. Then he headed to the main courtyard to report: "Madam, Madam, Eldest Miss, Eldest Miss back!"
Mrs. Su had a headache from the matters that happened these days. When she heard the messenger's call and thought those people came again. After carefully listening and hearing that the Eldest Daughter was back, she felt that her head wasn't painful and her movements were more nimble. She immediately stood up and joyfully went to welcome: "Eldest Miss is back?"
Mrs. Su's personal maid, Chun Fen supported her to the door of the main courtyard. Both of them looked at Chun Sheng with joy on their faces: "Do speak!"
"It is Eldest Miss. This servant saw Leader Guard Xiao get out of the carriage and hurried over to let Madam know." Though Chun Sheng was a little panting, he smoothly replied: "She's probably getting off the carriage now."
As soon as Mrs. Su heard that Eldest Daughter came back, she hurried out to welcome her. Chun Fen and Chun Sheng quickly followed. Auntie Song and Mrs. Han, who was at home, also heard the news and joined them. The entourage of six or seven people went to the front. A group of girls who were still studying in Su Family's study room heard the ruckus outside. Each and every one of them couldn't sit still and absent-mindedly looked out from time to time, for fear of missing any news.
"Mother!" Mrs. Su group had yet to exit the first entry door when You Jin group entered the gate and called her.
"It's good that you're back.!" Mrs. Su took in the person dressed in an ivory white round-neck, double-breasted gauze dress with lilac and purple white butterfly patterned skirt. Her hair combed into a small single snail coil. A matching purple jade pin was stuck at the top. Overall, her complexion was great and didn't seem to be tortured by the journey. After separating from each other for a good few months, Mrs. Su and her daughter definitely missed each other. Their eyes couldn't help but reddened a little.
She noticed behind her daughter were a few women of different age who weren't well-dressed but gave a vibe of nobleness. She could not help but have some doubts: "These are?"
Didn't Daughter say she was going to Chaxiang to discuss business? Why did she bring so many people back? And Daughter was supporting one of the kind looking elderly. Her behavior was respectful. Not one bit like a servant?
"Here's not the place to speak. Let's settle down first. We'll slowly talk about it in a while!" You Jin smiled at Mrs. Su and motioned her with eyes.
Receiving the signal from her daughter, Mrs. Su nodded and cheerfully responded: "Jin-er is right. You all must be tired from the journey. We'll rest for a while first. As for the rest, we'll talk about it later?"
A group of more than ten people entered Su Family's main courtyard in a somewhat formal but harmonious manner.
Receiving Auntie Song's instruction from the master, she sought people to clean up the empty yard. She also called the kitchen staff to prepare a light meal. Then she sent someone to go to the city to fetch the doctor. It was quite hectic. Sitting in the kitchen and watching the kitchen ladies work away, Auntie Song was relieved: "Everything will be fine now Eldest Miss is back."
That's right. Eldest Miss was gone for so many months. Although Third Madam was here to help Madam manage the household and Third Miss was also strong, Eldest Miss was the symbol of Su Family and the backbone of Su Family. As long as Eldest Miss was present, Su Family won't be scared even if the sky fall. That's because they all felt that the sky wouldn't collapse with Eldest Miss here.
Not only did the servants think so, but also Mrs. Su and You Zhu, who have been running around like busy bees.
Regarding the story of Xiao Family, You Jin didn't give the details. She just explained that they were Gentleman Xiao's elders and she happened to encounter them and rescue them out of repaying life-saving grace. As soon as Mrs. Su heard that it was Eldest Young Master Xiao's elders, she approvingly nodded: "So it's really fate. It's thanks to the two Gentleman Xiao's help in the past few years that we reached here today. Now that Xiao Family encountered mishap, their family couldn't stand aside and not reach out a hand. This was a matter of favor. "
Mrs. Su's words made Mrs. Yu feel emotional. At the beginning, she saw Su Family in that light. She assumed Mrs. Su was a restless widow and her children were little vixens. That's why Lin Yu didn't want to go home. Now she knew that her original impression of Su Family was so outrageous!
Mrs. Song jollily responded to Mrs. Su's words: "I always wonder what kind of mother raise an exquisite and beautiful person like You Jin. Although it's the first time meeting Mrs. Su, your sincerity to my Xiao Family is really a blessing that my Xiao Family had cultivated for a few lifetimes. It's also our two families' fate! "
Mrs. Su group chatted with Xiao Family for a while. Auntie Song's side passed on words that lunch was prepared. Su Family's children who were locked in for one morning were finally released by old Teacher Chen. As soon as they heard that Eldest Sister came back, they all rushed to the main courtyard: "Eldest Sister!"
A group of small girls with different heights, but similar faces swarmed You Jin and made it difficult for her to walk. You Jin squatted down to hold You Duan and hold You Chou's hand. She grinned: "Alright, alright. We have noble guests at home today. Whatever words can be left after the meal, okay? "
"Eldest Sister, we all miss you. I even thought you don't want us anymore!" Little Eighth hugged You Jin's neck tightly and refused to let go. So cute and adorable.
Looking at a group of jade fair, cute little girls, the hearts of Mrs. Song, Mrs. Yu, and others melt. Although Xiao Family was rich, they weren't children-wise. Mrs. Song only had two sons. Mrs. Yu was the same. While Mrs. Zhao had one son and one daughter. They had never enjoyed the treatment of being surrounded around their knees by children. They couldn't resist showing a fond smile.
As soon as the girls heard that there were guests, they properly followed Yu Lan's manner lessons and bowed. Seeing that the little girls knew propriety, Mrs. Song and others liked them. Each and every one smiled until their eyes were curved. Afterward, they had a lively meal together. You Jin personally sent Xiao Family to the cleaned yard where they'll live. The hired doctor checked Xiao Family's pulse and concluded there wasn't much problem. After opening a maintenance prescription for Mrs. Song, You Jin left Xiao Family's temporary living yard and headed to the main courtyard.
She distributed the small trinkets she brought back from the capital among the sisters one by one. Then she chatted for a good while before getting the attendants to bring the children back to the room for a nap. She, Mrs. Su, and Mrs. Han sat together and talked.
"Everything at home was fine during these months? Why do Mother and Third Aunt seem off?" Looking at the bags under Mrs. Su and Mrs. Han's eyes, You Jin felt something must had happened at home.
Mrs. Su stared at the You Jin as if she wanted to speak but was hesitant. In the end, she really didn't know how to open her mouth and sighed with annoyance: "I really don't know where to start!"
Looks like something did happen at home. Judging by Mrs. Su's reaction, it should be just a trivial matter. If it was something big, she wouldn't hold back when she returned. Since she could leave it until now when everything was sorted, it should be ok. You Jin was relieved and said, "It's fine. Now there's just us family. Mother , Third Aunt, tell me whatever the problem is."
Eyeing Mrs. Su's appearance of not knowing what to say, Mrs. Han sighed and turned to You Jin. She recounted the matter that Mrs. Su didn't know how to bring up. "It's like this. Five days ago…"
"She actually came knocking?" You Jin was a little shocked. At the beginning, troublemaker Yue Chang Lu was resolved. Not long later, Xiao Family's mishap occurred. Now she thought about it, she had forgotten Wan Niang. Before she sorted her out, she dared to come to the door by herself: "She came looking for trouble and you let her have her way?"
She listened to Mrs. Han's recount of Wan Niang brought Yue Wen Bao and stir a ruckus these days. Although the west side of the river didn't have anyone, a group of villagers watched at the door. Mrs. Su felt their face was wiped off clean. Though she was so angry and worried to the point she couldn't sleep well for several days, she didn't know what to do. Today, when she heard that someone came, she thought Wan Niang had came to make trouble again. She had felt that her heart missed a beat.
"What else can I do? Let her fan out your life story. What will happen to marriage in the future?" One must know that when they settled Luohe Prefecture, Mrs. Su claimed to be a widow. Being a widow's child was already a bad reputation. Being a separated wife's children and also following the mother was even worse. Mrs. Su and the children left Dingyuan because Yue Da Fu went to the temple to find a master fortuneteller and was told the children in the family were repressing the family's fate. Now the children were getting bigger, she couldn't leave it alone!
You Jin was clueless about Mrs. Su's scruples. She frowned slightly and spoke, "Mother, don't worry. Since I am back, I will handle Wan Niang's affairs myself."
Mrs. Su knew that Eldest Daughter knew the limit. Since she said this, she must have a solution in mind. Still, she chipped in out of worry: "Jin-er, breaking the surface facade with Wan Niang won't do us good. We can't sacrifice the family for her."
Mrs. Su was still ill-at-ease. Fortunately, Wan Niang sought trouble during the day the last few times and You Zhu didn't encounter it as she was in the city. With You Zhu's nature, she would most likely rip the sky apart!
You Jin didn't overthink like Mrs. Su. But since Mrs. Su opened her mouth, You Jin wouldn't drop her face and nodded, "I know the boundaries. Mother, be at ease."
Inside, she was already coming up with solutions.
The mother and daughter conversed for a while. The knots in Mrs. Su's heart was gone and tiredness slowly crept up. You Jin and Mrs. Han still had things to discuss. The two went to You Jin's study room in the backyard to not disturb Mrs. Su's nap and continued their discussion.
Chapter 123. Considerate flower
"With this trip, I was gone for more than two months. The shop matter truly troubled you, Third Aunt." You Jin sat at the top and poured a cup of tea for Mrs. Han. She asked, "Everything going smoothly?"
When Sujiami opened at the end of February, the business was constantly doing well. However, You Jin was away for more than two months. Naturally, there were some worries about Sujiami's business not being on track.
Mrs. Han accepted the tea and took a sip. After taking a long breath of pleasure, she grinned: "Now there is Third Master Huang helping at the shop, everything is in order. After all, he is someone produced by a major household. The shop is getting better and better day by day. I am a bit redundant though. " After Xiao Family's mishap, old Master Huang redeemed himself. Later, Uncle Song visited the thatched cottage and repeated sincere invitations, Third Master Huang finally chose to go to Sujiami to help manage the business with his relationship with the old owner in mind. But going along with Third Master Huang's wish, he no longer sold himself. He just signed an employment agreement with Su Family.
Third Master Huang went to Sujiami to take care of the business. Uncle Song had reported this in a letter to her. In all fairness, Third Master Huang was deep foundations in Luohe Prefecture. Those he interacted with were major households. Since You Jin was aiming to be middle-high end, Third Master Huang was indeed more suitable for the role of the manager than Mrs. Han. However, this meant her original promise to Mrs. Han had become an empty check. That's why You Jin felt a little guilty: "Third Aunt..."
"Oh! You Jin, what are you doing!" Mrs. Han had thought it through. After all, it was thanks to You Jin that she can reunite with her children, her son can study, and her daughter now gave birth to a baby. She wasn't greedy. Besides, Third Master Huang was more suitable than herself. How could she blame You Jin? Mrs. Han smiled sincerely and said, "I have been in contact with Third Master Huang. I also know that he is indeed more suitable as the manager. Besides, your Elder Sister You He had just given birth to a baby. I can go see her whenever I'm free. Isn't this wonderful? It's just I'm freeloading. This is a bit overboard. Whatever you want me to do, I have no objection."
Mrs. Han's sincerity made You Jin more guilty in her heart as well as feeling closer to Mrs. Han: "How about Third Aunt learn a bit or two from Third Master Huang. Then we can see what business you can do. I will give you my support at that time! "
After listening to Niece's words, it would be a lie to say Mrs. Han wasn't moved. After all, she had two sons who hadn't yet started a family. Although her daughter was married, she needed a strong maternal family. Although, there was second branch for everything, she can't freeload for a lifetime, right? Although there was affection between the two families, it shouldn't be worn out this way.
"Sure! But I can't bother you in vain. Although I want to do something small, I have to give you a share." Although Mrs. Han had suffered a lot of suffering the last few years, the toughness in her bones and heart were still there. She was originally raised as a boy. Her horizon and chest were much taller than the women from ordinary small households.
The aunt and niece happily chatted away. After that, on the second day, the formerly idle Mrs.Han began to get busy again. Although she had managed a small grocery shop before, she still learned stuff from following Third Master Huang. These were what she had never dipped into before. Although she was a little bit unhappy before, Mrs. Han was reconciled when she saw the shop's monthly main ledger at the end of the month.
Sujiami was different from Sujiaxiang. The pricing in Sujiami wasn't low. The customer target was naturally the rich households in Luohe Prefecture. Third Master Huang had been in Luohe Prefecture for many years, so he naturally has his own networks. In addition, there was no other who sold honey and high-end flower tea like Sujiami. It was really unique. It can be said Sujianmi was booming during this period. June's income overtook Sujiaxiang's. Now it had become the most often patronized by the respectable in Luohe Prefecture.
Wan Niang encountered You Yin on the street and felt she looked familiar. Only after inquiring about it, she discovered that Su Family had only moved to Luohe Prefecture in recent years. It was a household of female managing outside, so it wasn't difficult to inquire. Wan Niang, who had reached resource end, encountered Yue Chang Lu's separated wife, Mrs. Su. She dared to step forward and tightly stick on. Only squeezing out a layer of oil from Su Family would she be reconciled.
"Son ah! Eat all you want, Mother has money!" She stroked Yue Wen Bao's messy head with a loving expression as she watched him holding a big chicken leg and gobble it. The smile on the corner of her mouth carried a hint of proudness. She knew what Mrs. Su was afraid of. Now those lowly girls were older and reached marriageable age. If she announced the results of fortune telling Yue Fu got from the temple, those lowly girls wouldn't be able to marry out at all.
She must tightly grasp this rare opportunity to plan and seek a future for herself with her son! Laughing, she spoke to herself, "Why can those b*tches live in big houses and be served by so many slaves? All of this should be my child's!"
"My!" Yue Wen Bao was young and didn't know what Mother's words meant. He fiercely swallowed the last bit of chicken and cheerfully parroted after Wan Niang's words.
Wan Niang heard her son and the twinkle in her eyes was even more obvious. She handed a chicken leg to her son, confirming, "Yes, it's all ours!"
At this side, Wan Niang was daydreaming of taking all of Su Family's assets. This side, You Jin already sent people to investigate her movements these days.
At this time, Su Family's guard was reporting to Eldest Miss the latest news that he had brought back: "After Yue Chang Lu disappeared, she hooked up with her neighbor in a few days. A hawker named old Fifth Lin. His wife's family is a butcher in Luohe Prefecture. The woman is a strong character. If she found out old Fifth Lin was eating outside, she would grab a knife and chop this pair of adulterers."
Wan Niang's movements weren't hidden. These dirty matters naturally couldn't escape Su Family's investigation.
"Truly a rare gentle considerate flower!" There was a trace of sarcasm in You Jin's eyes. Back then, didn't she hook up with Yue Chang Lu like this? Have to say, this Wan Niang really wasn't picky when it came to survival! "There was Yue Chang Lu in the front, and then old Fifth Lin afterward. Since she likes to be someone's considerate flower, let's do her a favor!"
The guard silently raised his head and glanced at the harmless smile on Eldest Miss's face. He solemnly remarked in his mind that Eldest Miss was diverting the troubled water to the east! Just don't know which sucker will be the unlucky one!
Luohe Prefecture was quite populated and huge. Naturally, there was no shortage of people, let alone rich people.
It went without saying You Jin wouldn't be kind enough to find a diamond king for Wan Niang. Third Master Huang had a wide network in Luohe Prefecture. In a few days, he found the person You Jin was looking for. "You Jin, this Boss Chen is not a good person. What do you want from such a person?"
It wasn't that he wanted to talk out of turn or gossip. Mainly because even a well informed person like him can't accept Boss Chen's actions. No matter what, it wasn't good to have any dealing with such a person!
"Acting as a matchmaker for others!" You Jin looked at Third Master Huang with a sly look. She had already started planning how to create opportunities for Wan Niang.
Third Master Huang had a lot of contact with You Jin in the past few years. Naturally, he saw through the bad intention under the smile and felt relieved. Since You Jin knew that Boss Chen was such a person, she wouldn't use him on people by her side. He crossed his arms and said, "What do you need me to do for you?"
You Jin was waiting for him to take the initiative. Seeing him speaking out, the joy in her eyes was even more obvious. She responded: "There are some things I need to trouble Third Master to help me arrange a bit."
She brought out her plan. Seeing that Third Master Huang had no objection, this matter was settled. You Jin's plan was very simple: create an opportunity for Boss Chen and Wan Niang to meet. Although the hero saving the beauty was cliche, this trick never gets old and was effective.
Although Wan Niang had always lived bitter days, it was in her bones to like prettiness. The twenty silver liang she got from Su Family was enough for a normal family to spend in a year. She had spent it all. Wan Niang thought she had a firm grasp on Su Family and wasn't afraid of running out of money. After getting the money, she bought a lot of rouge and gouache, as well as clothes and jewelry. Initially Wan Niang was somewhat pretty. If not, how could she bewitch the Eldest Master when she was a maid back then? Later, Yue Chang Lu and old Fifth Lin?
After these days' suffering, initially skinny Wan Niang was even thinner. A pliant willow-like waist and limbs were matched with a pair of fluttering with affections eyes. You Jin was confident that this Wan Niang can latch onto Boss Chen!
It took a few more days before Su Family stealthily prepared everything. Now it was just waiting to watch the good show.
"You little whore dared to seduce my man!" Wan Niang, who walked on the street with a vegetable basket, was caught off guard and slapped dizzy by a woman who was half wider than herself. The vegetable basket had long flew into an unknown corner. That woman didn't give her the opportunity to explain. After slapping Wan Niang, she jumped on top of her. One hand tightly grasped her collar, while the other hand unreservedly went all out on Wan Niang's little cheeks in turn. Shortly later, her cheeks were red and swollen. The corners of her mouth had bleed out. The woman didn't show mercy at all. As the one-sided beating went on, berating sang out at the same time: "Seduce people eh, you shameless b*tch. You have a son with no father. You are a vixen whose whole family is dead!"
Two women in a tussle immediately attracted many pedestrians to gather around and spectate. Because old Fifth Lin's wife's one-sidedly crushing, Wan Niang had no ability to fight back. Due to the on-site explanation of the victim, the onlookers whispered into each other ears. Some even spat at the already beaten disheveled Wan Niang: "These vixens are the most shameless. Deserve to be beaten to death!"
"That's right! She deserves it! Dare to seduce other's husband. Look at those eyes. One glance, and you can she's not a good thing!" Another middle-aged woman with a horse-faced face spat out with disdain. Internally, she was jealous of the little vixen having the appearance of attracting people.
"Stop! What are you doing?" Just when Wan Niang was already in despair, a middle-aged man's voice penetrated through the crowd. It heavily landed in her buzzing ears but like a heavenly voice.
Boss Chen originally had a business meeting to attend today and had no intention of intervening in this catching the cheater case. However a glimpse caught his attention. The beaten woman's fair waist that was exposed under the torn clothes dazzled his eyes. Raising his sight, he saw a pair of fluttering eyes that conveyed unspeakable shame. It halted his steps. He decided to be a hero saving the beauty.
Boss Chen's appearance wasn't bad. Although he was middle-aged, being decked in luxurious clothes was countlessly better than those pedestrians. Beaten to her last breath, Wan Niang's eyes gained an unknown light. Even the other female onlookers became a little shy. Old Fifth Lin's wife involuntarily stopped her hand and stared at him blankly.
Chapter 124 Hero save the beauty
In a two-story restaurant opposite the street, a lattice window was half opened. A girl in a goose yellow narrow sleeve robe with a moon white twelve part split skirt was holding a cup with a faint fragrant thorn rose tea and drank it slowly. As if the far-reaching drama on the opposite side of the street was like a wonderful drama.
"Miss, how do you know that this Boss Chen would reach out a lending hand? If he doesn't save, wouldn't your plan fall out?" Standing behind Eldest Miss, Qiu Fen looked at Eldest Miss as if she saw a god descended down to earth, full of worship and doubt.
You Jin put down the tea cup in her hand and watched the drama that hadn't ended outside. With a faint joking tone, she responded: "It won't. Boss Chen is just one of the options. Even if he doesn't step in, I feel happy from seeing her getting beaten."
With her current power, it wasn't hard to make a small character with no foundation, family, or friends in Luohe Prefecture like Wan Niang disappear. She was reconciled to solve it so straightforwardly. That's why she came up with this method.
Qiu Fen was clueless of her Miss's plan. Hearing her finish speaking with such a light tone, she could not help but have another new understanding of her Miss's magical brain circuit: "No matter, Miss always has a way."
The master and servants no longer said anything, just watched the cliche and old-fashioned hero saving the beauty scene that continued to play.
"You, you, who are you?" Although old Fifth Lin's wife was brazen, she wasn't a person who had no eyes. The person in front of her was obviously a rich man. If she offended him, there won't be any good result.
Boss Chen glanced at old Fifth Lin's wife and did not say anything. He went up to support the excessively swollen Wan Niang and asked softly: "Young lady, you're okay?"
He didn't mind that her clothes were stained from being pressed on the ground; nor did he care about putting distance between men and women when he supported her by her arm. The soft voice of the rich people made many female onlookers envious and jealous from the bottom of their heart toward this vixen who seduced another's husband: "No wonder she's a vixen. Even when beaten to this point, she hasn't forgotten to lure a man! "
It was unknown who said such words first. Those gray-faced women responded and whispered one after another: "So true, truly a vixen!" "A rotten thing. Who knows how many people wore that broken shoe!"
"Thank you, Savior for life-saving grace. It's just that I'm in a difficult spot right now. I'm unwilling to drag Savior down. Savior, please leave quickly!" Wan Niang weakly leaned into the arms of Boss Chen. A pair of watery fluttery eyes glanced at him as if weeping and complaining. The considerate flower's melodious whispering was enough to make Boss Chen feel itchy. He couldn't wait to crush her into his own bones. How could he bear to let such a delicate woman be bullied by these crazy women?
Following this, Wan Niang could be seen tightly embraced by Boss Chen as she slowly followed Boss Chen out of the stage. Two of his personal servants were left behind to solve old Fifth Lin's wife, who wanted to continue her ruckus. The first act of the hero saving the beauty drama was finally finished.
As for Old Fifth Lin, he heard that his own wife was beating his hidden considerate flower on the street. Once he rushed to the scene, he witnessed the considerate flower that was normally snuggling in his arms in the embrace of another. Depression brewed in his heart.
When old Fifth Lin's wife saw him, she jumped on him like a hungry tiger pouncing on a sheep. As she pulled on his collar, she wailed: "Old Fifth Lin, you heartless beast without a conscience! This lady will live dying with you today! I birthed children for your Lin Family, serving those still-not-dead in your house, and suffered many years with you. You actually found a vixen behind my back!"
Losing Wan Niang, old Fifth Lin felt aggrieved. Now that he was dragged on the street by a snotty and teary tall, stoutly-built woman, he felt his manly ego was lost. He pushed away his wife and then slapped heavily: "I can't stand you, you shrew! I'm divorcing you today!!"
As soon as old Fifth Lin's wife heard this, she became a paper tiger and all energy was sapped out of her. Stunned, she sat on the ground and began to wail: "Old Fifth Lin! You dare to treat me like this! I did so much for this family for more than ten years and you are going to divorce me today because of a vixen ridden by thousands of people!"
Watching Wan Niang's figure disappear around the corner of the street, You Jin turned around and stopped watching the husband and wife's farce. She closed her eyes. She was waiting for the next good show!
"Thank you for saving my life. I can never repay it back." In the medical hall, the already patched up, teary Wan Niang thanked Boss Chen who was sitting at the side: "My name has already been stained. I can't let Savor be dragged down. If Savior's reputation is damaged, it is my sin."
Boss Chen eyed her tender fair waist that occasionally peeked out and his expression became cloudy. Staring at Wan Niang, he comforted: "It's okay. Where do little lady live? Let me send you back! Otherwise, your family would worry. "
"Few days back my family head was gone and left us, an orphan and a widow behind. I'm raising a son alone. In order to spend less money I spoke to the seller a few sentences more. Unexpectedly, his wife misunderstood me. Now that my reputation has become messy, how can I still have the face to live in this world!"The more Wan Niang spoke, the more agitated she became. In the end, she collapsed, lying in the small bed provided by the medical hall and sobbed. The initially peeking waist was now fully exposed, landing in the eyes of Boss Chen.
Boss Chen had long experienced a cluster of flowers. How can he not understand this? A hot hand was placed on her waist. Carefully gauging, he softly responded: "Little lady don't need to mind this. I can sit upright and naturally not be afraid of those long tongue gossiping women."
Although Wan Niang had her back to him, she could feel the warmth from the man.Her heart stirred up and her mouth revealed a hint of smirking. This was a man! Old Fifth Lin was so skinny that he didn't have much flesh. If it weren't for him being able to supplement her a bit, she wouldn't want to come in contact with such people! One must know that from the first glance one can tell the person behind was wearing good quality clothes. There were two jade pendants on his waist. It indicated that he was a rich person. Latching on him was much better than old Fifth Lin! Furthermore, if she wanted to seize Su Family's assets, it wasn't possible by herself. The person in front of her may be a good choice.
From that day, the male had affection and the female was willing and the two came into contact. Boss Chen and Wan Niang really hooked together.
Wan Niang can be said to be quite comfortable recently. With a new lover and a rich one, she and her son rented a new yard in Gejia Lane in the city west. Although it wasn't big, it was much better than a small broken courtyard outside. Not to mention that, Boss Chen even hired an attendant to wait upon her, do laundry, and cook.
"Hurry up and wash the clothes. Then bring in the food!" Sitting in the main room, Wan Niang was quite domineering dressed in a newly made silk and a lotus embroidered dress. Attendant Feng was spinning from the commands. Seeing Attendant Feng sweating from the busyness, she felt pleasure. If Attendant Feng's hands and feet were a little slow, she would beat and scold her: "You didn't eat or what! Such rough and clumsy hands and feet. Be careful or I'll sort you out!"
Attendant Feng covered her whipped arm. Lowering her head she acknowledged with a yes. Her hand didn't dare to drop her pace. She had already berated this flaunting master over 800 times: "It's just a can't be seen mistress. She actually treats her no-face, no-skin self as something! "
It went without saying Wan Niang didn't know how many times she was scolded by Attendant Feng behind her back. Right now, she only felt happiness! She had never lived such a good life in her life. Even when she climbed up to Master's bed when she was a maid, she was driven out of the house by that female tiger before enjoying a single rich day. Later, when following Yue Chang Lu, she thought she could endure until becoming above others. Unforeseen Yue Chang Lu was missing after seeking refuge in Luohe Prefecture. As for old Fifth Lin, Wan Niang never wanted to have much involvement with him.
More importantly, Boss Chen was very generous! She cried and made trouble with Su Family for half a day and only got twenty liang silver. After thinking about it, she was with Boss Chen for half a month and he rented a new yard and found an attendant for her.
The more she thought about it, the prouder she felt. Wan Niang felt right now things at its worst will mend. Happily sitting in the main room, she watched her son playing in the outside yard. In a merry mood, she hummed a tune. Life was truly wonderful!
As for Boss Chen's side. After gaining a beauty that matched his taste, it went without saying he'll coax her with good words and give her things. Anyway, he didn't lack money, right? Once he gets her into the house... Thinking of this, Boss Chen's eyes were full of salivation and anticipation: "Such a beauty, I wonder how long she can last!"
In blazing July, Wan Niang joyfully sat in a small sedan with blue canopy into the city east's grain seller, Boss Chen's manor.
Since Eldest Daughter returned, no one came to make trouble again. Mrs. Su completely relaxed. Now, there were addition of two peers, Mrs. Yu and Mrs. Zhao at home, it was more lively. When Xiao Family was at its peak, there were hundreds of servants at home. As the mistress of the house, Mrs. Yu's mentally and methods were much stronger than others. Mrs. Su knew she had the ability and simply sought her everyday for a chat. She asked her to help manage the household affairs. As for Mrs. Zhao, she was born into a literate household and was a local of the capital city. She had something in common with Yu Lan and the two would play chess whenever they were free. Life was very happy.
"What do you mean that she won't come again?" Mrs. Su and Mrs. Yu were planning to change clothes into autumn ones. When they heard Daughter say this, they couldn't help but have some doubts: "She left Luohe Prefecture?"
You Jin gave a sly grin and replied, "Daughter matched a good marriage for her. She is now married to her beloved and decked in brocades and jades. How can she still miss our bit of money?"
Seeing her mischief, Mrs. Yu couldn't help but tease her: "Then she should bring a gift of gratitude over and thank you?"
The longer Mrs. Yu got along with You Jin, the more she liked this little girl. She was decisive in handling matters. And when there is gratitude or grudges, she'll repay it. Even if there was a grudge, she would remember but not keep it.
Looking at Mrs. Yu's clear smile and looking at her own mother's out of it expression, You Jin felt that her mother still had a lot more to learn from Mrs. Yu. At least, she would learn how to deal with the world. Learning to be decisive was also good.
Chapter 125 Ending
Back to Wan Niang. After entering the gate of Chen Family, she realized that although she was a concubine, Chen Family didn't even have any other concubine. Not even a Mistress of the house. For a while, she soaked in bliss. She hugged Yue Wen Bao, who was now decked in silk and satin clothes: "Son ah. Us mother and son have survived. We can live a good life!"
What she didn't notice was that the servants of Chen Family were looking at her with gazes of sympathy and pity behind her back. She only assumed those lowly things were jealous of her.
Only a few days after entering Chen Family's house, Wan Niang realized that she was wrong. Gravely wrong!
"Ah! Master, please spare me!" A water-red gauze was long torn apart by a whip. Dark red blood oozed out and mixed with the original color of the gauze. Two lines of tears flowed down her well-groomed face. The extremely sorrowful and charming appearance entered Boss Chen's eyes that were already a little red with excitement and made him even more excited. He swung the whip in his hand and it landed on Wan Niang's body that was already covered with bloody wounds. Then, another scream cried out: "Ah!"
"Beauty, cry out louder! Hahahahaha!" Boss Chen's excited appearance filled Wan Niang's sight, causing a deep panic in her heart. All her limbs tried to break free from Boss Chen's restraint: " Let me go! Ah!"
…
In the early morning of the next day, the morning light was faint. The morning's mottled sunlight shone into the room covered by a smell that made people blush. Boss Chen stood in front of the closet, opened his arms and was served by the attendants on getting dressed in clean clothes. Looking refreshed, he headed out. As for the person lying on the carved wooden bed in the inner room of the main room, she hadn't woken up despite the sun being high in the sky. The naked and exposed skin was covered with horrible red marks and the blood on it had already solidified. Quite a terrible sight.
When Su Family's first round of osmanthus fragrans harvest was finished, Third Master Huang brought the news that Wan Niang was gone: "She passed the night before yesterday. The servants of Chen Family carried her to a mass grave outside the city and threw her away."
"This incident taught us the reasoning, don't reach out if it's not yours, or your life will be lost!" Hearing this news, You Jin didn't react too much. It was as if she just crushed the most inconspicuous ant to death.
Hearing her speak so calmly, Third Master Huang couldn't help but tremble a little. Little girl was getting more and more powerful now! He recalled the news he had inquired back. The dead body was covered in bruises. No one area was good. He understood that You Jin hardened her heart to sort her out! Although he didn't know what kind of enmity there was between the two, it must be a deep hatred that resulted in one to die so tragedily.
After Wan Niang's death, Yue Wen Bao, who had only had a good life for a few days, was kicked out by Chen Family. He was just a four-year-old child who lost his mother. On his own, he sat on the side of the street, not knowing what to do. Just when he was about to be taken away for some candied haws by a trafficker, two guards with swords came from nowhere and drove the trafficker away. Then they left Luohe Prefecture with him in their arms and headed south for two days. After they gave him to a family of farmers, the two guards left.
"As long as he is settled, it's fine. It's his parents whom I have a grudge against. The child is innocent. Why would I bother to kill them all?" You Jin let out a long sigh. Yue Da Fu couple and the first branch were missing. Yue Chang Shou had nothing to do with her. While Yue Chang Lu and Wan Niang were taken care of. The enmity between her and Yue Family should be considered having a conclusion!
"Miss, aren't you afraid that the child will come back to seek revenge in the future?" Third Master Huang, who thought she was going to kill them all, really didn't expect Miss to send the woman's son to a farmer in another place to raise. What's more, she gave the family twenty liang silver as compensation. He felt conflicted on the inside. Before, he felt that Miss was too cruel at such a young age. But now it seemed that Miss only took revenge on the woman. It truly made him a little impressed.
"It's just a four-year-old child. He might not remember anything in two years. So there's nothing to worry about." Although You Jin hated Yue Chang Lu and Wan Niang to the bone, the relationship between her and Yue Wen Bao had no hatred. If she really got rid of Yue Wen Bao, her conscience wouldn't be at ease: "This matter will be left like this."
Now that the party involved had already made up her mind, Third Master Huang naturally had nothing more to say. Remembering the news from the capital, he asked: "When is Miss going to leave for the capital?"
Third Master Huang knew Xiao Family's female members were all rescued by You Jin and had been paying attention to the capital. Now that it was autumn, it seemed that the execution at the end of autumn was soon.
Thinking of this matter, You Jin felt a little down. She sighed lightly and responded: "I'll set off in three days. With this trip, I will be gone for more than a month. When the time comes, the business in Luohe Prefecture will have trouble Third Master."
What should come will come. Although she was physically in Luohe Prefecture these days, Manager Wu had been making movements in the capital. If there was the slightest chance, they will try to rescue him. But now it was autumn and there was still no solution. She can only do her best in the end. At least, someone will collect his body and set up a grave for him!
Deep in thought, Third Master Huang nodded: "Don't worry, Miss. With me here in Luohe Prefecture, everything will be fine when you come back."
Third Master Huang was a person who cared about old affection. If not, he wouldn't have chosen Su Family among so many people who wanted to recruit him. The facts had proved that Su Family lived up to his expectations. They were indeed a family that valued relationship and righteousness. Although the head of the family was a girl, she was no worse than a hot-blooded man in terms of temperament, vision and friendship.
Now that everything in Luohe Prefecture was in order, You Jin leaving for a while shouldn't be a problem. But before she left, something cropped up.
"I'm going too." Red-eyed Mrs. Yu and Mrs. Zhao blocked You Jin's room door to prevent her from going out.
You Jin took in Mrs. Yu and Mrs. Zhao, who had cried so many times in secret, and couldn't help but feel a little headache: "Two Madams, I'm not..."
She wanted to make up a reason to coax the two of them. After all, it was a long way to travel from Luohe Prefecture to the capital. The two of them had only recovered a little. If they encounter another round of tossing, they might not be able to take it.
"We know you're going to the capital for the execution at the end of autumn. Right now the Mid-Autumn Festival is over." Reaching this point, choked up Mrs. Yu turned her head away. She was afraid that You Jin would see the tears in the corners of her eyes. After the Mid-Autumn Festival, the execution at the end of autumn will soon happen.
Although Mrs. Zhao was weaker than Mrs. Yu, she still insisted on going. Facing the request of the two elders, You Jin only felt her headache increase.
In the end, she had no choice but to bring Mrs. Yu and Mrs. Zhao to the capital. Xiao Lin Ru was left to accompany Mrs. Song in Luohe Prefecture.
"They should be arriving in Tu Prefecture soon, right?" Mrs. Song was sitting on the lounge by the window with a warm earthenware hot water bottle in her arms as she looked at the gloomy weather outside. She feebly spoke to herself. Tu Prefecture was the only way to travel from Luohe Prefecture to the capital. You Jin and her party had been on the road for seven days. At this time, they must have entered Tu Prefecture.
You Jin and the others didn't hide this from Mrs. Song. They couldn't find any reason why the two daughters-in-law wanted to leave together. They had no other choice but to tell the truth. Mrs. Song knew that she was getting old and it would be a burden to force them to bring her along. So she only instructed the two daughters-in-law a bit. Enduring the grief in her heart, she stayed in Luohe Prefecture and waited for them to bring the remains of her children and grandchildren back to their hometown.
"Grandmother, drink the medicine." Xiao Lin Ru came in with a bowl of steaming medicine and noticed a bean-sized teardrop hanging on her grandmother's half-sagging face. Her heart twisted. However, on the surface, she acted like she didn't see and respectfully brought the medicine to Mrs. Song.
Although You Jin had arranged enough servants to take care of Xiao Family after they moved into Su's house, Xiao Family felt that they owed Su Family too much and insisted on taking care of their own daily life. Only one attendant to serve the elderly. The attendant had been sent out by Mrs. Song to do other things. That's why when Xiao Lin Ru suddenly broke in, she saw the scene of her grandmother crying.
"Good child, thank you for your hard work." Mrs. Song accepted the medicine from Xiao Lin Ru, grasped her originally creamy hands that now had a thin layer of calluses, and patted this gentle and sensible granddaughter's hand with distress.
Xiao Lin Ru brought a blanket for Mrs. Song to cover her legs and carefully tucked the corners. With a soft smile on her face, she said, "It's my job to be filial to Grandmother. How can it be called hard work?"
Seeing that her only granddaughter was so sensible, Mrs. Song felt even more distressed. Such an outstanding granddaughter was divorced by the husband's family whom she had carefully selected for her when her family was in trouble. When she thought of this, she was annoyed with herself for choosing such a family to marry her granddaughter!
In fact, Xiao Lin Ru can be considered open-minded. She was an official slave now. But since she entered Su's house, she had taken care of her own daily life. Despite this, Su Family's servants did the laundry, cooking, and sweeping the floor. Only difference from before was that she didn't have four maids serving her. It was countless times better than those who were bought back to be slaves!
Right now, she can have enough to eat and be dressed warmly. Now long after the Mid-Autumn Festival, the autumn clothes made by Su Family were already on her body. Although the brocade material with red plum patterns and double embroidery wasn't as good as the Liuguang brocade and Feiyun brocade she wore before, it was the same material as Su Family's girls. From You Jin to the youngest of the Su family, Su Kang, they all treated her like a distinguished guest. What was there to complain about?
After You Jin left, Mrs. Su didn't mistreat Xiao Family's member at all. Since the master at the top valued them so much, the people below naturally didn't dare to neglect them so lightly.
As for Mrs. Han, she had learnt a lot of things with Third Master Huang. Now she was planning to open a shop of her own. Everyone in the family was busy. Even Yu Lan was occupied with giving qin lessons to Su Family's girls every afternoon. Only Mrs. Su had the most idle time. After a long time, Mrs. Su started having thoughts of doing something.
"What does Madam want to do?" After listening to Mrs. Su's long complaint, Yu Lan felt a little relieved in her heart. She knew about the elder girl's worries. Although Madam was kind, she was just too soft-tempered, soft-hearted, and simple minded. If she was a young girl, it wasn't a bad thing. But as the mistress of the house, she was absolutely unqualified.
When Mrs. Su was asked such a question, she didn't know how to respond. She stammered out: "I, I don't know either."
After saying that, she lowered her head in shame. She was really useless. She didn't even know what she wanted to do.