Capítulo 825: Chapter 347: Li Guoxing Returns (Part 1)
Su Zhu’s sister-in-law quickly looked at the maid following behind her upon hearing this. This maid, quite perceptive, immediately lowered her head upon hearing these words. Su Zhu’s sister-in-law felt stifled; Madam Zhu, whether because she’s growing old and muddle-headed, actually dared to call Cousin Miss a jinx at the Ma Family, putting Madam in a difficult position.
Madam Zhu’s words quickly spread to Begonia Garden. Xiang Wei was furious upon hearing them, lamenting that she had initially thought the Zhu Family was decent, but how could they be like this?
Xiang Wei thought the Zhu Family was fine based only on the conditions they put forth. However, because Yueyao initially opposed it, Xiang Wei did not continue to look into it. Therefore, she did not realize until now how malicious the Zhu Family members were.
Yueyao did not mind these rumors, but Xiang Wei, being someone who always retaliates, not only had these words reach Ma Chengteng’s ears but also spread Madam Zhu’s requirements for choosing a daughter-in-law, leaving Madam Zhu deeply embarrassed.
Madam Tang also felt ashamed because Ma Chengteng had already instructed the gatekeeper not to allow people from the Zhu Family in anymore. Madam Tang angrily said: “I don’t know what’s wrong with Auntie lately. Could she actually be senile?” Madam Tang always felt her Auntie was reasonable and easy to talk to, but her recent behavior was increasingly distasteful.
Su Zhu could only console her: “Madam, fortunately, this marriage didn’t go through, otherwise there would surely be endless trouble afterward!” This could be considered a blessing in disguise.
Madam Tang was feeling down about this situation when she heard that a letter from Shandong had arrived. It didn’t take long for the letter to be in Madam Tang’s hands, while also bringing words from Ma Chengteng instructing her to prepare more nourishing items to send to Shandong.
Upon reading the letter, Madam Tang found out that Zhuang Ruolan was pregnant again. Madam Tang felt somewhat troubled; Zhuang Ruolan had already given birth to two sons and two daughters and was pregnant once more. Madam Tang touched her own abdomen, feeling somewhat saddened, as she hadn’t conceived again since giving birth to her eldest son, and she didn’t know the reason.
Yueyao also received the news, thinking about making a couple of small clothes for the unborn child. However, the thought only briefly crossed her mind as she had to learn many things, leaving her no time to make small clothes.
At the end of September, Li Guoxing returned to the Capital City. Li Guoxing was promoted to Minister of Revenue, a position second only to Minister of Personnel. There were very few people offering support in critical times but many who came to share in the prosperity. Those bringing gifts and connections nearly broke down the threshold.
Upon learning that Li Guoxing had returned to the Capital City, Yueyao also sent an invitation. Originally, she thought she wouldn’t see anyone from the Li family so soon, but unexpectedly received a reply that very night inviting her to visit in a couple of days.
Yueyao was delighted to hear this and quickly sent a note to Tingzheng, asking him to return to the mansion over the next couple of days. After all, Tingzheng grew up in the Li Mansion and had deeper feelings for the Li family.
Tingzheng rushed back the following afternoon.
Upon seeing Tingzheng, Yueyao asked incredulously: “Tingzheng, didn’t they say that the Primus Battalion has frequent outdoor drills? You haven’t been out?” Tingzheng’s skin not only didn’t get darker but seemed to have gotten lighter. Now his complexion was as white and tender as freshly made tofu, making Yueyao want to pinch it to see if it would yield any moisture.
Tingzheng was equally frustrated: “I also joined them for drills, but not only did I not tan, I’ve actually gotten whiter.” Tingzheng actually hoped he would tan a bit, but while others got darker, he seemed to get progressively lighter.
Yueyao couldn’t help but laugh: “You’re certainly favored by heaven.” With such tender skin, Yueyao knew it was due to her health maintenance over the days, but Tingzheng’s was entirely congenital; not to mention his looks, even his complexion likely incited envy in many.
Xiang Wei jokingly commented: “Miss, I think you should have An Zhichen take a look at Tingzheng.” If An Zhichen saw Tingzheng, he might feel inferior.
Tingzheng didn’t think much of it and laughed upon hearing this: “Sister Xiang Wei, I saw Brother Chen at the military camp a few days ago; he was even teaching me marksmanship!”
Xiang Wei hadn’t expected An Zhichen to be so clever, knowing to take the younger brother-in-law route.
Yueyao quickly sent Xiang Wei away to prevent further nonsense: “Uncle Li has returned to the Capital City, did you know?”
Tingzheng joyfully replied: “Uncle Li has returned to the Capital City? Why did he return? Did Auntie Li and Li Han also come back? I haven’t seen Uncle Li and them for over a year, and I miss them dearly.”
Yueyao told Tingzheng about the situation of the Li family: “We’ll go see them tomorrow. By the way, Li Han will be going to Bailu Academy in a few days. You two haven’t seen each other for a long time, make good use of these leave days to catch up.” Li Han and Tingzheng’s relationship was closer than real brothers.
Tingzheng smiled and said: “Alright.”
Yueyao said softly: “Tingzheng, in the future, don’t smile outside; keep a straight face, understand?” Although Yueyao considered herself not lacking in looks, she couldn’t help but feel inferior in front of Tingzheng. Especially when he smiled, Yueyao couldn’t withstand it.
Tingzheng’s face fell instantly: “Sister, I heard that men generally start growing beards at eighteen or nineteen.” Tingzheng had already decided that once he grew a beard, he would let it grow long to completely cover his face so that no one would mention his appearance again.
Yueyao felt a bit regretful, this thought having just crossed her mind, Yueyao clapped her hands and said: “Come to think of it, I still haven’t made a painting of you!” Not painting such a beautiful person is practically squandering a treasure!
Tingzheng always wanted to help Yueyao with something, but unfortunately, Yueyao never had anything for him to do regularly; this time with such a small request, he certainly wouldn’t refuse.