Chapter 92 Huang Yue's Thoughts
When Cheng Yunshuo heard Lu Lingyun say this, his expression turned somewhat cold.
Lu Lingyun glanced at his face, placed a chess piece, and continued, "She's pregnant; you should be more considerate of her."
Cheng Yunshuo remained silent, but he slowed down in placing his next move, clearly showing some hesitation and acknowledgment.
He just needed an excuse to step down.
There was nothing wrong with him visiting Xing Dairong; it had been several days, and he was genuinely worried and wanted to see her.
But after all, it was he who had driven her away, so going directly would be a blow to his pride.
If someone could coax him and provide that excuse, he would go.
Before Lu Lingyun could continue coaxing him, Huang Yue, who was serving tea nearby, chimed in, "Your Highness, why don't you visit Aunt Xing? In our place, the woman carrying a child is always the most important, and we must endure and yield no matter what she does."
Her words sounded innocent and harmless, yet they made Lu Lingyun raise an eyebrow slightly.
What did she mean by enduring and yielding no matter what she did?
Wasn't this a subtle way of saying that Xing Dairong was at fault this time, that she had done something terrible, but everyone had to tolerate it because she was pregnant?
She cleverly hid Cheng Yunshuo's punishment and her own meddling behind the scenes, making it seem like everything was Xing Dairong's fault.
This new little maid looked innocent, but she was far more cunning than Xing Dairong.
Sure enough, after hearing Huang Yue's words, Cheng Yunshuo's softened expression hardened again, and he threw the chess piece back into the basket, "Every time, I'm the one who gives in! She always uses her pregnancy as an excuse to do whatever she wants!"
His relationship with Xing Dairong was truly not the same as before.
After several conflicts, Xing Dairong's attempts to regain his favor relied solely on her pregnancy—either seeking his sympathy or acting with impunity. Cheng Yunshuo had long harbored resentment.
After Huang Yue's words, he didn't want to go anymore and decided to leave her alone.
Seeing this, Lu Lingyun looked up and gazed at Huang Yue coolly, "Huang Yue, you're young. How many pregnant women have you seen?"
Upon hearing Lu Lingyun's question, Huang Yue's doe-like eyes immediately sparkled innocently, "My aunt has been pregnant a few times. When she craved meat, my uncle would buy it for her, and when she threw tantrums, my uncle would bear with her. My grandmother said that a pregnant woman is the most important."
As she spoke, she secretly glanced at Cheng Yunshuo, which only made him more displeased.
At this moment, Lu Lingyun suddenly asked, "Didn't you say you had no family left?"
Huang Yue's watery eyes flashed with panic, "I don't have any family left. My uncle's family moved away a long time ago and haven't been with us."
She was slightly nervous, but fortunately, Cheng Yunshuo didn't notice.
Lu Lingyun merely glanced at her and then turned to Cheng Yunshuo, "Your Highness, I remember Aunt Xing was also an orphan."
"At least Huang Yue still has an uncle who cares about her, but Aunt Xing has no one. Since she married into the marquisate, you are the closest person to her. Don't keep quarreling with her."
With these few words, Lu Lingyun brought the conversation back, touching on the past between Cheng Yunshuo and Xing Dairong.
Instantly, Cheng Yunshuo's heart softened.
He didn't love her deeply, but he couldn't easily let go. Thinking back to how he had redeemed Xing Dairong from the brothel when she was an orphan, their passionate and carefree past, his anger dissipated.
"I'll go see her." He stopped playing chess, got off the couch, and walked out without a glance at Huang Yue.
Huang Yue tried to follow but was stopped by Lu Lingyun's cough, "Huang Yue, your tea is quite good. Pour me another cup."
Huang Yue immediately stopped, "Yes, Young Lady."
She used the small teapot to pour another cup of hot tea for Lu Lingyun.
Trembling and cautious, she looked down demurely, evoking pity.
"How can you manage selling tofu alone in the south of the city? Can you handle it?" Lu Lingyun asked.
"It's manageable. I get up at the third watch to cook beans and make soy milk, finishing by the fifth watch, and then sell them at the market. I can handle it alone."
"You must work hard."
"Madam, we are all born to labor. There's no such thing as hard or easy work," Huang Yue said, looking down.
After listening, Lu Lingyun smiled faintly, "In this world, there's no such thing as fate. Some people use their minds, others their strength, but everyone strives to improve their lives. Don't you agree?"
Hearing this, Huang Yue frowned slightly and nodded, "Madam is right."
"I think you're a smart person, and I like smart people. But you must use your intelligence wisely. Take things one step at a time, and only then will life improve, right?"
Huang Yue immediately knelt in fear, "Yes, Little Yue will never cause trouble for the marquisate."
Seeing this, Lu Lingyun frowned. She looked at the girl kneeling on the ground, head bowed low, trembling, and sighed, "Get up. As long as you do your duty, no one will be harsh with you."
After saying this, she also threw the chess piece into the basket and left the couch.
After she left, Huang Yue slowly rose from her kneeling position.
As she stood up, her lowered eyes were filled with resentment and bitterness.
Ha, what foot-by-foot progress, what hard work, what duty—it was all because she was born a noble lady and could marry into the marquisate as the lady of the house!
If she were like her, just a lowly tofu seller, she wouldn't be able to speak so easily!
She despised women like Lu Lingyun, who looked down on her and lectured her. She wished Lu Lingyun would rot in hell!
Cheng Yunshuo went to Yuerong Pavilion.
Xing Dairong saw him come, and she neither cried nor made a scene, remaining quiet.
Cheng Yunshuo, seeing her like this, felt his heart soften completely. He apologized to her with remorse, "Dairong, I was too impulsive last time."
Xing Dairong said nothing.
Cheng Yunshuo continued, "If you really can't let it go, hit me a couple of times."
Xing Dairong still showed no reaction.
Cheng Yunshuo pulled her into a tight embrace, and Xing Dairong did not resist.
She didn't know what had come over her, nor could she pinpoint her feelings toward Cheng Yunshuo now.
Love, hate, resentment, and frustration all mingled together, making her feel aggrieved and resentful, yet unable to fully unleash her emotions.
Tightly held by Cheng Yunshuo, she pushed him a few times before letting out a sob, tears streaming down her face.
Ah, ah, ah, she cried in distress, her voice hoarse.
Hearing her heart-wrenching cries, Cheng Yunshuo felt as if his heart were being torn. He held Xing Dairong tightly, "Dairong, I was wrong, I was wrong."
"I was just so angry that day when I said those things."
"I swear, there's nothing between me and Huang Yue. She is just an orphan I rescued because I felt sorry for her."
Chapter 92 Huang Yue's Thoughts
When Cheng Yunshuo heard Lu Lingyun say this, his expression turned somewhat cold.
Lu Lingyun glanced at his face, placed a chess piece, and continued, "She's pregnant; you should be more considerate of her."
Cheng Yunshuo remained silent, but he slowed down in placing his next move, clearly showing some hesitation and acknowledgment.
He just needed an excuse to step down.
There was nothing wrong with him visiting Xing Dairong; it had been several days, and he was genuinely worried and wanted to see her.
But after all, it was he who had driven her away, so going directly would be a blow to his pride.
If someone could coax him and provide that excuse, he would go.
Before Lu Lingyun could continue coaxing him, Huang Yue, who was serving tea nearby, chimed in, "Your Highness, why don't you visit Aunt Xing? In our place, the woman carrying a child is always the most important, and we must endure and yield no matter what she does."
Her words sounded innocent and harmless, yet they made Lu Lingyun raise an eyebrow slightly.
What did she mean by enduring and yielding no matter what she did?
Wasn't this a subtle way of saying that Xing Dairong was at fault this time, that she had done something terrible, but everyone had to tolerate it because she was pregnant?
She cleverly hid Cheng Yunshuo's punishment and her own meddling behind the scenes, making it seem like everything was Xing Dairong's fault.
This new little maid looked innocent, but she was far more cunning than Xing Dairong.
Sure enough, after hearing Huang Yue's words, Cheng Yunshuo's softened expression hardened again, and he threw the chess piece back into the basket, "Every time, I'm the one who gives in! She always uses her pregnancy as an excuse to do whatever she wants!"
His relationship with Xing Dairong was truly not the same as before.
After several conflicts, Xing Dairong's attempts to regain his favor relied solely on her pregnancy—either seeking his sympathy or acting with impunity. Cheng Yunshuo had long harbored resentment.
After Huang Yue's words, he didn't want to go anymore and decided to leave her alone.
Seeing this, Lu Lingyun looked up and gazed at Huang Yue coolly, "Huang Yue, you're young. How many pregnant women have you seen?"
Upon hearing Lu Lingyun's question, Huang Yue's doe-like eyes immediately sparkled innocently, "My aunt has been pregnant a few times. When she craved meat, my uncle would buy it for her, and when she threw tantrums, my uncle would bear with her. My grandmother said that a pregnant woman is the most important."
As she spoke, she secretly glanced at Cheng Yunshuo, which only made him more displeased.
At this moment, Lu Lingyun suddenly asked, "Didn't you say you had no family left?"
Huang Yue's watery eyes flashed with panic, "I don't have any family left. My uncle's family moved away a long time ago and haven't been with us."
She was slightly nervous, but fortunately, Cheng Yunshuo didn't notice.
Lu Lingyun merely glanced at her and then turned to Cheng Yunshuo, "Your Highness, I remember Aunt Xing was also an orphan."
"At least Huang Yue still has an uncle who cares about her, but Aunt Xing has no one. Since she married into the marquisate, you are the closest person to her. Don't keep quarreling with her."
With these few words, Lu Lingyun brought the conversation back, touching on the past between Cheng Yunshuo and Xing Dairong.
Instantly, Cheng Yunshuo's heart softened.
He didn't love her deeply, but he couldn't easily let go. Thinking back to how he had redeemed Xing Dairong from the brothel when she was an orphan, their passionate and carefree past, his anger dissipated.
"I'll go see her." He stopped playing chess, got off the couch, and walked out without a glance at Huang Yue.
Huang Yue tried to follow but was stopped by Lu Lingyun's cough, "Huang Yue, your tea is quite good. Pour me another cup."
Huang Yue immediately stopped, "Yes, Young Lady."
She used the small teapot to pour another cup of hot tea for Lu Lingyun.
Trembling and cautious, she looked down demurely, evoking pity.
"How can you manage selling tofu alone in the south of the city? Can you handle it?" Lu Lingyun asked.
"It's manageable. I get up at the third watch to cook beans and make soy milk, finishing by the fifth watch, and then sell them at the market. I can handle it alone."
"You must work hard."
"Madam, we are all born to labor. There's no such thing as hard or easy work," Huang Yue said, looking down.
After listening, Lu Lingyun smiled faintly, "In this world, there's no such thing as fate. Some people use their minds, others their strength, but everyone strives to improve their lives. Don't you agree?"
Hearing this, Huang Yue frowned slightly and nodded, "Madam is right."
"I think you're a smart person, and I like smart people. But you must use your intelligence wisely. Take things one step at a time, and only then will life improve, right?"
Huang Yue immediately knelt in fear, "Yes, Little Yue will never cause trouble for the marquisate."
Seeing this, Lu Lingyun frowned. She looked at the girl kneeling on the ground, head bowed low, trembling, and sighed, "Get up. As long as you do your duty, no one will be harsh with you."
After saying this, she also threw the chess piece into the basket and left the couch.
After she left, Huang Yue slowly rose from her kneeling position.
As she stood up, her lowered eyes were filled with resentment and bitterness.
Ha, what foot-by-foot progress, what hard work, what duty—it was all because she was born a noble lady and could marry into the marquisate as the lady of the house!
If she were like her, just a lowly tofu seller, she wouldn't be able to speak so easily!
She despised women like Lu Lingyun, who looked down on her and lectured her. She wished Lu Lingyun would rot in hell!
Cheng Yunshuo went to Yuerong Pavilion.
Xing Dairong saw him come, and she neither cried nor made a scene, remaining quiet.
Cheng Yunshuo, seeing her like this, felt his heart soften completely. He apologized to her with remorse, "Dairong, I was too impulsive last time."
Xing Dairong said nothing.
Cheng Yunshuo continued, "If you really can't let it go, hit me a couple of times."
Xing Dairong still showed no reaction.
Cheng Yunshuo pulled her into a tight embrace, and Xing Dairong did not resist.
She didn't know what had come over her, nor could she pinpoint her feelings toward Cheng Yunshuo now.
Love, hate, resentment, and frustration all mingled together, making her feel aggrieved and resentful, yet unable to fully unleash her emotions.
Tightly held by Cheng Yunshuo, she pushed him a few times before letting out a sob, tears streaming down her face.
Ah, ah, ah, she cried in distress, her voice hoarse.
Hearing her heart-wrenching cries, Cheng Yunshuo felt as if his heart were being torn. He held Xing Dairong tightly, "Dairong, I was wrong, I was wrong."
"I was just so angry that day when I said those things."
"I swear, there's nothing between me and Huang Yue. She is just an orphan I rescued because I felt sorry for her."
Chapter 93 Reconciliation
"I really don't like her. I really didn't look for anyone else outside."
Cheng Yunshuo frantically explained.
The more he tried to explain, the harder Xing Dairong cried and struggled.
Cheng Yunshuo refused to let go and continued to hold her tightly, "Dairong, I swear to you, I will only love you in this life, forever and ever, there will be no other woman."
After hearing his words, Xing Dairong screamed in a fit of emotion, struggling out of Cheng Yunshuo's embrace like a madwoman. But just as she broke free from his arms, she closed her eyes and collapsed backward.
"Dairong!"
"Miss Xing!"
Doctor Liu hurriedly arrived at the mansion.
After examining Xing Dairong, he shook his head repeatedly, "How could you let a pregnant woman get so agitated!"
Lu Lingyun was also present, frowning as she asked, "How is she and the baby?"
"This concubine has been emotionally unstable throughout her pregnancy. Today, she suddenly went into shock, and the baby's condition is extremely unstable, showing signs of a threatened miscarriage." Doctor Liu wasn't exaggerating this time.
Xing Dairong's condition was too poor, and he even lacked confidence.
"Save the baby! Save the mother! Save both of them!" Cheng Yunshuo, agitated, grabbed Doctor Liu's collar tightly.
"Prince, calm down," Lu Lingyun stepped forward. "Aunt Xing is still okay; it's not that serious yet."
At this moment, Xing Dairong slowly regained consciousness, coughing lightly.
Cheng Yunshuo immediately let go of Doctor Liu and rushed to Xing Dairong's side, "Dairong, Dairong, I was wrong."
Seeing her awake, everyone breathed a sigh of relief, and Doctor Liu added, "It's good that she woke up. As long as she isn't stressed again, ensure she stays in a good mood and remains emotionally stable. I'll prescribe some calming medicine."
"Why haven't you gone yet!" Cheng Yunshuo shouted, turning around.
When he turned back, Cheng Yunshuo spoke softly and gently to Xing Dairong, "Dairong, I was wrong. I won't treat you like that again. I promise."
Xing Dairong turned her head away.
Cheng Yunshuo held her hand tightly and continued, "This time, it was my fault. You can do whatever you want to me, but please don't be angry with me anymore."
He spoke softly and coaxingly.
Seeing this, Lu Lingyun waved her hand, signaling everyone to leave.
As she walked away, Xing Dairong, lying on the bed, finally gave him a slight nod and said, "Can I really trust you one more time?"
"Absolutely! Dairong, I promised you a lifetime commitment. I will keep that promise."
"Hmph!" Xing Dairong sneered.
Cheng Yunshuo hugged her and continued, "I have never betrayed you, truly."
"Spare me. If you didn't betray me, how did Qiu Ling end up pregnant? Her child didn't appear out of thin air!"
Cheng Yunshuo was momentarily speechless.
But this time, Xing Dairong didn't press further. She sighed deeply, "Yunshuo, let's put the past behind us. I won't care about Qiu Ling or the Lady anymore. In the future, please don't betray me. You promised me a lifetime commitment."
"Yes, okay, I promise."
Lu Lingyun listened to their mutual promises and reconciliation from the courtyard. Her expression remained unchanged.
Beside her, Chunhe exclaimed enviously, "Our Prince is truly devoted. Despite all that happened, they can still reconcile like nothing ever happened."
"Exactly," Chunxing added sourly, "No matter what she does, the Prince can't let her go. After all this, they've reconciled completely. They seem even better than before."
"You're right. It might overshadow our Lady," Chunhe said, realizing her slip of the tongue and quickly looked at Lu Lingyun.
Shuang Hong scolded, "Stop talking nonsense. No one compares to our Lady!"
"Yes, yes," Chunhe and Chunxing fell silent.
Lu Lingyun's expression remained unchanged throughout. She looked up at the twilight sky, which was now crimson and filled with brilliant sunset hues, much like the dawn.
Such dazzling light could either be the sunrise or the last glow of dusk.
Cheng Yunshuo and Xing Dairong had reconciled.
They were inseparable once again. Coincidentally, Cheng Yunshuo had taken a half-month leave and stayed at the mansion, spending every day with Xing Dairong.
He didn't even return to Yaoguang Pavilion.
Together, despite being injured and ill, they recovered rapidly under the power of love.
Xing Dairong's appetite improved significantly, and she could eat anything.
Cheng Yunshuo's wounds, both on his body and head, were tended to by Xing Dairong, and they healed quickly.
Their intimate actions made the servants of the mansion feel envious.
Qiu Ling simply visited Lu Lingyun's courtyard daily, ignoring everything, and focused on sewing clothes for the unborn child.
Lu Lingyun managed the accounts of the mansion and planned the development direction of various businesses for the new year.
A piece of news that amazed the entire mansion came: Lu Lingyun's keen insight.
After the spring began, there indeed was warfare beyond the border, and the caravans heading west were unprepared. Many wealthy families' caravans were stranded outside the pass, unable to return or move forward, suffering heavy losses.
Lu Lingyun had sent the two caravans of the marquisate to Jiangnan in advance, and this foresight truly amazed everyone in the household.
Especially Lady Qin and Steward Qian, who saw that Lu Lingyun's two movements successfully avoided losses for the marquisate, were utterly impressed by her.
Lady Qin sent a letter of commendation and some rewards, encouraging Lu Lingyun to work without restraint.
Lu Lingyun's side was smooth sailing, with a flourishing life. Xing Dairong and Cheng Yunshuo were also getting better every day, everything looked good except for one person.
"Has the Prince not returned yet?" Huang Yue asked hopefully in Yaoguang Pavilion.
"The Prince is staying at Aunt Xing's place, why would he come back?" a servant from Yaoguang Pavilion replied.
"But, he can't stay in Aunt's courtyard every day, can he?" Huang Yue's tone carried a hint of jealousy.
"Tsk, what's so surprising about that! You don't know how much our Prince used to dote on that Miss Xing!" The servant glanced at Huang Yue, noticing her beauty and harboring some thoughts.
"How so?" Huang Yue hurriedly asked out of curiosity.
"That Miss Xing came from a brothel. Our Prince spent ten thousand taels to redeem her, causing a stir throughout the Imperial City. He even went against the Lady and Lord Marquis for her sake. You tell me, wasn't she favored?"
After hearing this, a glint flashed in Huang Yue's eyes as she feigned surprise, "That auntie is from a brothel? Doesn't the Prince mind?"
"Mind because she's from a brothel? Aunt Xing even ran away with a man and came back, and our Prince still adored her just as much!"
Upon hearing this, Huang Yue's eyes lit up, and a sharp glint immediately flashed in her clear eyes.
Chapter 94: The Spring Examination Begins
The days of the second month were busy. After the arrival of spring, festivals big and small followed one after another, and the bustling Spring Examination had also begun.
Lu Lingyun managed both major and minor affairs in the manor when Wang Qiluo came to visit her.
"Lingyun, it's started, it's started."
"What has started?"
"The imperial examinations!" Wang Qiluo grabbed Lu Lingyun's hand, her eyes filled with nervousness and excitement.
Only then did Lu Lingyun remember that the Spring Examination had already begun.
The second session is held on the birthday of the flowers, and the results are announced on an auspicious day.
The examinations would be held in February, with the results announced in March. Now, all the candidates in the Imperial City were mobilized.
"Let's go take a look!" Wang Qiluo pleaded, clinging to Lu Lingyun.
Seeing her like this, Lu Lingyun reached out and poked her head, sighing, "What a wimp!"
Even as she scolded Wang Qiluo for being a wimp, Lu Lingyun still put aside the matters at home and went out with her.
On the day of the examination, outside was bustling. Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo arrived at the Examination Hall, where the crowd was even denser.
Candidates entering the hall, families accompanying them, vendors selling food and lucky charms—all blocked the entrance to the Examination Hall solidly.
"Lingyun, quick, look over there!" Wang Qiluo spotted Liu Shuhui in the crowd.
Accompanying Liu Shuhui was Jiao Jie.
While talking to Liu Shuhui, Jiao Jie glanced around and quickly saw Wang Qiluo and Lu Lingyun.
"Miss Wang!" Jiao Jie waved at Lu Lingyun.
Liu Shuhui also turned to look over.
Wang Qiluo excitedly pulled Lu Lingyun towards them.
Feeling her steps, Lu Lingyun shook her head inwardly.
This girl, once married, will definitely be a submissive wife, completely under her husband's control.
Such a nature isn't necessarily bad; women ultimately seek love from their husbands, someone to protect them. Being a little woman isn't bad at all.
But it depends on the person and luck.
Fortunately, in this life, she knew Liu Shuhui's character well.
He was stubborn but also a rare good man.
She remembered that in his previous life, he didn't rush into marriage after topping the charts. He wanted to achieve something before considering his personal life. After becoming a Prefect, his mother urged him to marry a local girl. However, within two years of marriage, his personality clashed with his career, leading to a downfall. His wife divorced him, and Liu Shuhui gave her the divorce papers, giving most of his wealth to her, keeping only his child and elderly mother.
Later, his career revived, but he never remarried and didn't even have a concubine.
At that time, Lu Lingyun thought he was a man of great resolve, untouched by money or women, leaving himself without any weaknesses. His ambitions were his only focus.
Such a person was truly intimidating.
Wang Qiluo marrying him meant no worries about his character, but she would have to endure hardships with him.
Looking at Wang Qiluo's silly face, it seemed she was prepared to commit fully.
"Jiao Jie, why are you here?" Wang Qiluo asked with a smile.
Jiao Jie replied while looking at Liu Shuhui, "Today is Brother Liu's Spring Examination day, so I came to see him off."
Seeing these two conversing, Lu Lingyun almost rolled her eyes at Wang Qiluo. Act, keep acting.
Such poor acting, who could they possibly fool?
"How did you get here?"
Well, they could fool someone—Liu Shuhui.
"We just happened to pass by," Wang Qiluo smiled at Liu Shuhui, pretending it was a coincidence, "I didn't expect today to be your big day, Young Master Liu. Qiluo wishes you smooth sailing, a fountain of ideas, and success on the golden list."
A string of blessings flowed out, and Liu Shuhui nodded at her, "Thank you, Miss Wang."
He looked at Lu Lingyun, who said, "Good luck."
"Hmph!" Liu Shuhui turned his head, "Of course I'll do my best!"
Lu Lingyun: "..."
With such an annoying temper, what did Wang Qiluo see in him!
Liu Shuhui didn't talk to them anymore. He took the food box and a beautifully embroidered Sichuan knee protector from Jiao Jie, hesitated slightly, and then headed towards the Examination Hall.
After he left, Jiao Jie smiled at Wang Qiluo, "Miss Wang, the items are delivered."
"Thank you for your trouble." Wang Qiluo had Cuicui take out some coins and handed one to Jiao Jie.
Jiao Jie hurriedly refused, "No, no. Brother Liu has been kind to me. Even if you didn't give me anything, I would still prepare for him."
"Just take it!" Wang Qiluo forced the coins into Jiao Jie's hand. Jiao Jie couldn't refuse and accepted them.
After exchanging a few more words of gratitude, she also left.
Wang Qiluo turned her head and met Lu Lingyun's scrutinizing gaze.
"Those snacks and knee pads, did you prepare them?"
Wang Qiluo immediately blushed upon hearing this. "No, no, how could it be me?"
"How come the material of those knee pads looks like the fabric I gave you?" Lu Lingyun had given Wang Qiluo two pieces of cloth for making clothes before the new year.
She recognized the material at once—it was from her marquisate.
"Good sister," Wang Qiluo knew she couldn't deceive her and held onto Lu Lingyun's arm. "I made those knee pads with the leftover fabric from making clothes. It's nothing, don't mention it."
"You, shameless!" Lu Lingyun poked her hard.
At that moment, they encountered a group of people coming their way.
"Wenxun, you must do well in the exams and bring me back a top scholar's wife!"
"It's just the preliminary exam, still early."
"No, I believe you will definitely become the top scholar!" A heavily pregnant woman, about to give birth, clung to his arm softly.
At this moment, she saw Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo approaching.
"What are you doing here?" Lu Hanyi asked warily.
"Today is the imperial examination, I came with Qiluo to watch the excitement." Lu Lingyun said.
The man beside Lu Hanyi stepped forward and greeted Lu Lingyun. "Sister, hello."
"I almost forgot, today is also Brother-in-Law's big day for the exam. I wish you success in the rankings." Lu Lingyun gave a perfunctory blessing.
Receiving her blessing, Li Wenxun was quite happy. "Wenxun will definitely perform well and not disappoint Sister's expectations."
Beside him, Lu Hanyi seemed lost in thought, looking displeased. She tugged at Li Wenxun fiercely. "You don't need to live up to her expectations; just don't disappoint mine! What does her expectation matter!"
"Hanyi, that's your sister." Li Wenxun frowned slightly, giving her a meaningful look.
In this life, he was not close to Lu Lingyun, who had never paid any attention to him or interacted with him. Their relationship could only be described as lukewarm, but Lu Lingyun was still the lady of the marquisate.
Chapter 95 Excessive Confidence
A person like Li Wenxun has always been friendly to those who might help him.
Lu Lingyun's status is high, so there's no shortage of formalities.
"You know she's my sister!" Lu Hanyi snorted coldly. "She's not your sister. You're always so close to her; I thought you had some ulterior motives!"
To speak the truth, Lu Hanyi felt guilty.
She had taken over Lu Lingyun's marriage and couldn't help but worry if there might be some hidden connection between them.
Therefore, she didn't like Lu Lingyun getting involved in her family matters.
Even when Li Wenxun hinted several times that she should seek Lu Lingyun's help for his official position, she refused to do so.
She feared something might happen between them behind her back.
After she said this, Li Wenxun's face darkened instantly. "What nonsense are you talking about!"
"Hmph, every time you see her, you rush over. Who is your wife, me or her?"
"Shut up!" Li Wenxun sternly reprimanded Lu Hanyi, his usually gentle face now long and stern.
"You're even scolding me..."
"Enough!" At this moment, Lu Lingyun spoke coldly. "Hanyi, it's fine if you say some nonsense at home, but today is Wenxun's important day for the Spring Examination. Why are you causing trouble!"
Lu Lingyun's rebuke was highly effective.
It immediately silenced Lu Hanyi.
Today was Li Wenxun's crucial examination day. She couldn't afford to quarrel with him, act out, or cause any trouble.
She softened her stance. "I misspoke just now. Wenxun, don't take it to heart."
"Hmph!" Li Wenxun gave her a cold look, took something from a servant, and strode towards the entrance of the Examination Hall.
Lu Hanyi thought for a moment and then chased after him. "Do well on the exam, and you'll definitely become the top scholar!"
Li Wenxun's face grew even longer.
He truly realized that the wife he had married was incredibly foolish!
And full of delusions!
Watching Li Wenxun pass through the checkpoint without looking back and enter the Examination Hall, Lu Hanyi's face showed a hint of dissatisfaction and resentment.
Why hadn't she noticed Li Wenxun being like this in her previous life? When he was with Lu Lingyun, he seemed particularly gentle and considerate.
Why did he turn into such an annoying person with her?
But as soon as she turned around and saw Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo still there, Lu Hanyi straightened her back.
"Hmph! Li Wenxun will definitely become the top scholar, and I'll be the scholar's wife! Your good days are over; wait and see how I'll rise!"
Lu Lingyun: "..."
Wang Qiluo: "..."
After saying this, Lu Hanyi, supported by her maids, climbed into the carriage with her swollen belly, full of arrogance and anticipation.
Li Wenxun had gone to take the imperial examination and would soon become the top scholar. She was about to start her glorious new life!
The scholar's wife!
That would definitely catch everyone's attention.
At that time, what would Lu Lingyun be? Just a fleeting glory.
She had taken Lu Lingyun's fortune and would live her own good life, stepping on her and watching her rise step by step!
Her rise was coming!
"That sister of yours seems strange," Wang Qiluo said, linking arms with Lu Lingyun after Lu Hanyi left.
"How so?"
"Being confident in one's husband is good, but excessive confidence borders on madness." Wang Qiluo remarked.
Lu Lingyun chuckled.
Returning from the Examination Hall, the mansion was calm and peaceful.
Lu Lingyun inquired about the affairs in the various courtyards and learned that Cheng Yunshuo had taken Xing Dairong out for a trip today. After carefully asking about their itinerary and confirming there was no danger, she returned to her courtyard to rest.
Cheng Yunshuo and Xing Dairong had a great time together.
They visited the streets and temples they had frequented before, reliving many memories.
This brought their relationship closer.
Hand in hand, they returned warmly, feeling a sense of reunion after enduring many storms.
They had quarreled and acted out countless times, but which couple doesn't go through similar experiences?
Their personalities had been smoothed out, and they found each other better than before.
"Yunshuo, let's go back to the flower street we visited before tomorrow."
"Sure, wherever you want to go, I'll accompany you."
Cheng Yunshuo helped Xing Dairong through the door.
As soon as they entered, a young maid approached, "Prince, you're finally back."
Huang Yue, now in new clothes, looked even more vibrant and delicate than when they first met.
Her watery eyes stared straight at Cheng Yunshuo, looking particularly harmless.
Seeing her, Xing Dairong frowned deeply, "What are you doing here?"
Huang Yue knelt down with a thud, "Aunt Xing, I came to see the Prince."
She acted as if Xing Dairong had forced her into this.
Xing Dairong felt a surge of anger, but beside her, Cheng Yunshuo said, "Alright, Dairong, don't be so harsh on her. Little Yue is timid."
Hearing this, Xing Dairong's anger only grew. If it were in the past, she would have confronted either Cheng Yunshuo or Huang Yue, but this time, she held back.
"Hmph!" Xing Dairong turned her head away in disgust.
"What are you doing here?" Cheng Yunshuo looked at Huang Yue and asked gently.
"I made a mistake," Huang Yue immediately lifted her innocent face, her watery eyes brimming with tears, "While cleaning your study, I accidentally dirtied some of your documents."
Hearing this, Cheng Yunshuo became instantly anxious, "How bad is it?"
"A lot of them got dirty. I hung them out to dry. You should go take a look," Huang Yue said, appearing both nervous and fragile.
Cheng Yunshuo, seeing this, couldn't afford to scold her and hurriedly headed towards his courtyard, "Come with me quickly."
Xing Dairong, seeing this, called out urgently, "Yunshuo!"
"Dairong, go back to the courtyard first. I'll join you later!"
Cheng Yunshuo didn't turn back.
Xing Dairong, seeing his demeanor, angrily flung her sleeves and followed him.
When she arrived at Yaoguang Pavilion, she saw scrolls spread out on the ground outside the study, many of which were stained with ink.
Huang Yue was still kneeling nearby.
After Cheng Yunshuo picked up each scroll, he sighed in relief, "Phew, fortunately, it's not too serious. You can get up now."
"Really no problem, Prince?"
"It's fine, just a few ink stains."
Perhaps because Huang Yue had initially sounded very serious, Cheng Yunshuo had been quite tense, but upon seeing that it was just a few ink spots, he relaxed and even felt a bit relieved.
Huang Yue, under his words, hesitantly stood up, "Prince, I will be more careful in the future and won't cause any more trouble for you."
"Alright, no one blames you. You can leave now." Cheng Yunshuo dismissed her lightly.
At this moment, Xing Dairong's voice rang out, "Yunshuo, is this how you treat a servant who has made a mistake!"
Chapter 96 Now Are You Satisfied?
Xing Dairong's words drew everyone's attention.
"Dairong, it's not a big deal. Let it go," Cheng Yunshuo said.
Xing Dairong glanced at Huang Yue, who looked like a frightened little rabbit, "If we don't punish her for her mistakes, everyone will end up just like her!"
Her woman's intuition had made her dislike Huang Yue from the first glance.
That weak and pitiful appearance of hers was instantly off-putting!
Hearing this, Huang Yue fell to her knees with a thud, "Young Master, Aunt Xing is right. Little Yue has done wrong. I beg for punishment, Young Master."
Seeing Huang Yue kneeling on the ground trembling, Cheng Yunshuo frowned, "Stop kneeling. Get up."
"Yunshuo, she did something wrong, and you can't let her off just because she looks pitiful!"
Cheng Yunshuo looked at the aggressive Xing Dairong, "Dairong, our Ningyang Marquisate isn't so harsh on servants. If Little Yue knows she's wrong, that should be enough."
Hearing this, Xing Dairong became even angrier, "Are you going to punish her or not? If not, I will!"
She rushed forward to slap Huang Yue, but Cheng Yunshuo grabbed her raised hand, "What are you doing?"
"Cheng Yunshuo, are you out of your mind? She's just a lowly servant. She did something wrong, and you're still protecting her!"
The crude words pierced Cheng Yunshuo's ears, making his frown deepen, "Didn't you say everyone is equal before?"
The Ningyang Marquisate originated from beyond the border, and their lineage is short, lacking the tradition of being overly harsh on servants.
Moreover, the higher the status of a family, the more lenient they are towards their servants. Anyone who casually beats or kills a maid would be criticized by others.
Cheng Yunshuo, having grown up as a pampered young master, never approved of mistreating servants.
Xing Dairong had once caught his attention with her belief in equality.
But somehow, Xing Dairong had changed.
"You said that was in the past. People aren't equal. Some are born rich, like you. Others are born lowly, like her!"
Xing Dairong had indeed changed.
Her experiences in this era were like slaps in the face, awakening her.
Without any background, born in a brothel, she couldn't marry Cheng Yunshuo openly and could only be his concubine.
She wanted to escape but lacked the means to survive, allowing others to abuse her.
Adapting to the customs, adapting to the customs. If she didn't adapt, she would be an outsider, initially seen as novel but eventually as an anomaly.
If she didn't change, how could she survive in this era?
She now deeply understood that this was an era where background and fate mattered!
Lingyun had a good background and could be the head of the household. She had nothing and could only live under her.
And Cheng Yunshuo, he was also born lucky!
How could she still shout about equality, how could she still talk about romance with Cheng Yunshuo as before?
This world is cruel and realistic!
Looking at the twisted expression on Xing Dairong's face, Cheng Yunshuo felt a sense of strangeness, "Dairong, you weren't like this before."
"Hmph!" Xing Dairong sneered, her eyes filled with reality and disdain, "Before, I was just a fool!"
She used to see Cheng Yunshuo as everything, loving him desperately, causing trouble, but in the end, he repeatedly hurt her.
Like a fool, she let him bully her over and over again.
Now they were reunited, but she knew.
There was no reunion; things could never return to what they were before.
"You've really changed into someone I don't recognize." Cheng Yunshuo frowned tightly, clearly displeased.
"Hmph!" Xing Dairong sneered again, "Just say whether you'll punish her or not!"
Cheng Yunshuo clenched his lips, meeting her gaze.
At this moment, the kneeling Huang Yue cried out, "All the mistakes are mine, Young Master. Don't make yourself suffer for me. I'm not worth it!"
She then began banging her head on the ground, saying, "Little Yue was wrong. Please forgive me, Aunt."
She continued banging her head vigorously.
In no time, blood appeared on her forehead.
Even with the blood, Huang Yue kept banging her head, causing everyone to frown tightly.
Even Xing Dairong, who was holding Cheng Yunshuo back, let go of his hand.
Cheng Yunshuo frowned even more, displeased, "Now are you satisfied?"
He shook off Xing Dairong's hand, walked to Huang Yue, and pulled her up.
"No more head-banging!"
Huang Yue lifted her bloody head, her watery eyes looking pitiful, "Young Master, it's all Little Yue's fault. I'm clumsy and can't do anything right. That's why Aunt is upset. Don't plead for me. I will correct my mistakes."
"Enough!"
Cheng Yunshuo coldly interrupted her coquettish words and directly led her into the house. "Some people are indeed going too far!"
Xing Dairong, left standing there, stiffened upon hearing Cheng Yunshuo's words. The hurt and disbelief in her eyes had faded. She watched as Cheng Yunshuo pulled Huang Yue into the study and called for Qingfeng to quickly fetch a doctor. Xing Dairong merely let out a cold snort.
"Hmph, I'm the one who's going too far?!"
Xing Dairong returned to her courtyard and did not cry or make a scene this time.
Quietly, that night, Cheng Yunshuo did not come to see her and stayed in Yaoguang Pavilion.
Qiu Ling, knowing what had happened between them in the afternoon, came over late at night to check on her.
"Miss Dairong, how are you?"
Xing Dairong lay on the bed, her eyes vacant as she stared at the canopy above, lost in thought. She spoke emptily, "I'm fine."
Seeing her like this, Qiu Ling felt a tightness in her heart. She walked to Xing Dairong's side and squatted by her bed. "Miss Dairong, you married into the marquisate and wed the heir. A man like him would naturally have other women around. Don't be too..."
The word "jealous" was hard for her to say.
Truthfully, it was always the main wife who advised against jealousy. Xing Dairong was just a concubine, brought in from a brothel; she had no right to say such things.
Even the young mistress didn't mind her presence, yet she spent her days envying Aunt Qiu and even the maidservants around the heir.
Qiu Ling didn't know how to console her.
But after her words, she heard Xing Dairong suddenly burst out with a long sigh from the bed. "I will never lose!"
"Whether it's Lu Lingyun, Qiu Ling, or that wretched woman, no one can take Cheng Yunshuo away from me! He can only be mine!"
It was no longer about love. Xing Dairong now wanted to win this fight!
She was determined to win back Cheng Yunshuo and ensure he loved only her!
Chapter 97: Someone Wants to Harm My Child
Early in the morning, Xing Dairong went to Yaoguang Pavilion.
Cheng Yunshuo was having breakfast in his courtyard when he saw Xing Dairong approaching. He was slightly surprised.
He thought he would have to go and coax her again. Of course, he had also prepared himself to visit her after finishing his meal.
But at the same time, he had an idea that if Xing Dairong continued to cause trouble, he would use an excuse to be busy later.
He wasn't very willing to keep coaxing her anymore.
Even if they reconciled, he didn't have the same enthusiasm as before to keep indulging her.
"Yunshuo!" Xing Dairong approached him with a radiant smile, as if nothing had happened yesterday.
"Dairong..." Seeing her like this, Cheng Yunshuo's eyes showed a hint of evasion.
"Aren't you supposed to accompany me to the Flower Street today?" Xing Dairong sat beside him, clinging to his arm charmingly.
Cheng Yunshuo, seeing she wasn't angry, felt a jolt in his heart. "Yes."
"Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!"
Xing Dairong pulled him up to stand.
"Aren't you mad at me?"
"What do I have to be mad about!" Xing Dairong tightened her grip on his hand. "What's there to be angry about between us?"
At this moment, Huang Yue entered carrying a basin. "Your Highness."
She had bandages on her head and her pretty face stiffened momentarily upon seeing Xing Dairong.
Xing Dairong, changing her demeanor from yesterday, asked gently, "Is your head better now?"
"In response to Aunt Xing, Little Yue, Little Yue..." Huang Yue looked fearfully towards Cheng Yunshuo.
Cheng Yunshuo then said, "Answer her question. Why are you always so afraid!"
Playing weak can be effective, but it shouldn't be overused.
Overusing it can be annoying.
Especially now, with Cheng Yunshuo favoring Xing Dairong, he found Huang Yue's timidness irritating.
Huang Yue sensed this and quickly changed her tone. "Little Yue is fine, no worries, Aunt Xing."
"It's good that you're fine." Xing Dairong smiled at her, turned, and pulled Cheng Yunshuo. "Yunshuo, let's go out."
"Okay."
Cheng Yunshuo was pleased with Xing Dairong's behavior. As long as she didn't cause trouble, he was willing to do anything with her.
Xing Dairong held onto Cheng Yunshuo as they walked out together.
As they passed by, she glanced provocatively at Huang Yue, who was staring wide-eyed.
Her eyes were filled with blatant pride and disdain.
Ha, a little wench, daring to challenge her! She really took herself seriously!
Xing Dairong couldn't compete with Lu Lingyun because their backgrounds were vastly different. Lu Lingyun was on a different level altogether, making it impossible for her to win against her.
And Qiu Ling—had she not been too naive back then, Qiu Ling wouldn't have been able to take advantage.
Now, a mere wench dared to provoke her and try to bring her down. No chance!
Xing Dairong's softening stance made Huang Yue lose completely!
Watching them leave lovingly, Huang Yue felt a surge of anger upon receiving Xing Dairong's taunting gaze.
Ugh!
So infuriating!
Xing Dairong shifted her focus to guarding against Huang Yue. She went in and out with Cheng Yunshuo every day, and Huang Yue tried several times to catch his attention, but Cheng Yunshuo now prioritized Xing Dairong.
He didn't care much about Huang Yue, considering her just a maid. With Xing Dairong clinging tightly to him, he paid even less attention to Huang Yue.
All of Huang Yue's attempts to seduce him failed, leaving her envious and resentful as she watched Cheng Yunshuo dote on Xing Dairong.
Lu Lingyun, in her courtyard, planned the major and minor affairs of the mansion. Hearing about Xing Dairong, Cheng Yunshuo, and Huang Yue, she rarely praised Xing Dairong, saying, "She's showing some improvement."
Finally, she wasn't acting as she used to, wallowing in despair and expecting others to indulge her. Now, she knew she needed to fight for what she wanted.
Huang Yue might have some tricks, but she was still a newcomer with little capital beyond her own cunning. As long as Xing Dairong didn't lose her composure, Huang Yue couldn't compete with her at her peak.
Except to suffer frustration.
Lu Lingyun watched these petty struggles with a faint smile. As long as they didn't go too far, she wouldn't interfere.
Lu Lingyun closed the account book of the marquisate and pondered for a moment. "Call Manager Qian."
"Yes."
Soon, Manager Qian appeared before Lu Lingyun.
"Madam, you called for me!"
"I was thinking that since the market is good this year, we should open another silk shop."
Lingyun said.
She had previously instructed Head Qian to bring more silk on this trip to Jiangnan. This year, southern silk was in high demand, and the current shops of the Marquis Manor were rather mediocre, lacking any standout features. Therefore, Lingyun wanted to focus on a popular product.
"Good idea! No problem!" Head Qian agreed immediately.
Ever since the usury and the merchant caravan incidents, he had been immensely impressed by Lu Lingyun.
Moreover, Lady Qin had delegated most of the household management to Lingyun, allowing her free rein. Head Qian had no doubts about her decisions.
Whatever Lingyun said, he would do.
He readily agreed.
"Very well, once the shop is set up, I'll go take a look."
"Hmm!"
After Head Qian left, Lingyun stretched lazily. At that moment, someone rushed in and reported, "Madam, something has happened!"
"What happened now?"
"It's Aunt Qiu; she's having stomach pains!"
"What?!"
Hearing this, Lingyun immediately pushed everything aside and rushed to the Autumn Fragrance Courtyard.
Qiu Ling was already seven months pregnant, with an expected delivery in May. What could have gone wrong now!
Upon arriving at the Autumn Fragrance Courtyard, she saw that Qiu Ling had started bleeding.
"Qiu Ling, what's wrong?"
"Madam!" Seeing Lingyun, Qiu Ling clung to her hand as if she had found a lifeline.
"Don't worry, it's going to be fine." Lingyun calmly comforted Qiu Ling and then asked, "Where's the doctor?"
"The doctor is here."
Doctor Liu hurried over again.
This year, the salary from the Marquis Manor was well-earned; he had to visit every few days.
He quickly came over to examine Qiu Ling. After checking her pulse, Doctor Liu frowned tightly, "Bad news, this aunt has consumed safflower!"
Safflower!
Hearing this word, both Lingyun and Qiu Ling were shocked.
"How is the baby?" they both asked anxiously.
Doctor Liu was very serious, "The baby's condition is extremely unstable. Fortunately, this aunt is in good health and has been well-nourished, but the baby is likely to be born prematurely within half a month."
Hearing this, Qiu Ling panicked, but Lingyun remained calm, "Don't be afraid. The baby is already seven months old, so even if it's premature, it's not as scary. You need to rest."
"Yes, Madam is right. We will closely monitor the situation for the next half month, and the baby can be saved," Doctor Liu said.
With the reassurances from Lingyun and Doctor Liu, Qiu Ling calmed down.
But soon, she broke out in a cold sweat and gripped Lingyun's hand tightly, "Madam! Someone is trying to harm my child!"