Madam Cai staggered to her feet and retreated behind Tang Rong, who faced Xin An with a cold expression. Bowing slightly, he said, “It was my fault that you were startled, Sister-in-law. Thank you for your forgiveness. If you ever need anything, I will always be at your service. Please don’t let this matter weigh on your mind.”
Xin An wanted to continue scolding him, but with his father present, she held back. She regretted not seizing the earlier opportunity to say more. Given the current situation, any sharp words or displays of temper would be understandable—how could Tang Rong, self-proclaimed paragon of virtue, dare argue back?
If he had dared retort even a single word, she would have ensured he paid for it dearly. But alas, the moment had passed.
“There’s no need for the young lord to dwell on it either,” Xin An replied with a cold smile. “Second Young Master, despite his initial anger, didn’t retaliate or insult me. Instead, he offered me comfort and sat properly dressed all night. That alone proves his noble character and virtuous conduct.”
“Second Young Master is handsome, well-built, and though he may lack extraordinary talents, he is upright in character. Marrying him is no humiliation to me.”
Tang Mo stood quietly, though he subtly straightened his back, exuding confidence. Tang Gang scrutinized him and had to admit that his second son did have a fine appearance. From last night to now, Tang Mo had caused no trouble, showing that despite his usual recklessness, he could handle himself in critical moments.
“Your wife is an excellent woman. You must respect and cherish her,” Tang Gang declared.
Tang Mo bowed and replied, “I will, Father.”
“Good.” Tang Gang nodded. “Now that you’re married, it’s time to mature. In a few days, you will report to the Northern Guard.”
Tang Mo froze, his disbelief quickly replaced by joy. He had longed to join the Northern Guard for years, but his father had consistently refused. Unlike the Southern Guard, known for its deadly combat, the Northern Guard was a training ground for the sons of nobility. A few years there, coupled with the right connections, could lead to rapid advancement.
“Thank you, Father! I will not disappoint you,” Tang Mo exclaimed, barely able to contain his excitement.
Seeing his son’s delight, Tang Gang felt a twinge of warmth and softened slightly. Wang Shi, suppressing her own excitement, stepped in to smooth over the situation, finally bringing the chaos to an end.
Governor Tao, who had observed the entire scene, frowned. He couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. The stark contrast was clear: his daughter had gained nothing but trouble, while Tang Mo’s household had reaped countless benefits.
The crowd dispersed quickly. Xin Kuan was pulled back to the front hall to continue drinking, and Tang Rong, who had planned to console Tao Yiran, was instead sent to the ancestral hall to reflect.
Wang Shi turned her full attention to Xin An, her words warm and affectionate. Madam Xin sighed in relief. She had once thought highly of Tang Rong, but today she saw him in a new light. His thick skin and shameless behavior were unmatched.
Now, however, even Tang Mo, whom she had previously disliked, seemed far more tolerable. Wang Shi lavished praise on Xin An, mentioning that in three days, she would transfer the household management rights to her.
Xin An, having managed the household in her previous life, was well aware of the complexities involved. She politely declined, her tone resolute.
“Mother, I deeply appreciate your kindness, but I am in no state to take on such responsibilities now. My mind is still in turmoil. I must trouble you to continue managing the household.”
Wang Shi, who had initially been reluctant to relinquish control, felt reassured. She had prepared herself to hand over the reins, consoling herself that at least her own daughter-in-law would have them, rather than Tao Yiran.
Seeing Xin An’s sincerity, Wang Shi softened further. “I understand how you feel. You’ve only just entered this household. Take your time to settle in. When you’re ready, come to me and I’ll teach you everything you need to know. The household management rights will always be yours when you want them.”
Xin An bowed in gratitude, and Wang Shi went on to address the matter of Tang Rong’s mother’s dowry. Xin An, knowing all too well the details of that dowry from her previous life, firmly declined.
“Mother, as I have married Tang Mo, I will dedicate myself to him. That dowry belonged to the young lord’s mother, and it would be improper for me to take it. I cannot accept it. Please handle it as you see fit.”
The Tang family, despite their noble title, lacked substantial wealth. Transitioning from military to civilian life had left them scrambling to maintain their status, with much of their facade propped up by borrowed funds. Xin An had no intention of investing even a single coin into the household unless she held absolute control.
Moreover, she had no desire to be tied to a dowry that could later be used against her.
Wang Shi, seeing her restraint, was filled with joy. She felt that all her efforts and sacrifices had been worthwhile. After a few more words of comfort, Wang Shi left to check on Tao Yiran in the Spring Blossoms Courtyard, knowing she needed to maintain appearances with the Tao family.
Once the room was cleared, Xin An shooed Tang Mo away and locked herself in with Madam Xin.
“I can’t believe the Tang family thought it acceptable to use Tang Rong’s mother’s dowry as compensation for you!” Madam Xin fumed.
Xin An chuckled softly. “The household accounts are probably strained. It’s no surprise.”
“Thank goodness you didn’t take on the household management. That Madam Cai is insufferable, and evenWang Shi can’t control her. If you had married Tang Rong, you’d be enduring her tyranny.”
“Honestly, you shouldn’t have intervened earlier. They should have beaten her to death.”
Xin An smiled faintly. “By sparing her, I’ve shown generosity. The household will see me as magnanimous. Sometimes, enduring small losses brings greater gains. That so-called ‘husband’ of mine is probably celebrating next door.”
Madam Xin laughed along. “I’ve realized Wang Shi doesn’t like Tao Yiran at all. I caught her smirking several times today. With her favor and Tang Mo’s newfound position, your life won’t be too difficult.”
“And that opportunistic son-in-law of mine is no fool. If you two support each other, life will surely turn out well.”
Deixe um comentário