Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Afterward, Ms. Fang led her daughter-in-laws and daughter back into the house, leaving Madame Zhao and her daughter-in-law standing outside. The maids inside were instructed not to open the door for them, as they appeared to be quite agitated.
Outside the house, a crowd had gathered, witnessing the unfolding drama. Whispers and discussions filled the air.
Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, some onlookers believed it would be best for the truth to be revealed and for everything to be clarified. By doing so, they hoped to prevent any unfounded rumors from spreading further.
As the news of the incident spread throughout the village, it reached the ears of everyone residing there. This widespread awareness was also a stroke of luck for Yang Xiaoni.
Coincidentally, during the same period, Shao Yunduan achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the Provincial Champion. This prestigious title commanded respect and had the power to ward off any ill intentions or troublemakers.
Given the "bad" reputation of the first section of the Shao family for their quick temper, no one dared to provoke or offend them. Even after the incident was revealed and clarified, there were concerns that people might shift the blame onto Yang Xiaoni, suspecting that there must be something wrong with her. They might question why such an incident happened to her alone and make baseless assumptions about her character or circumstances.
But things were different.
When the villagers learned about the visitors, they all blamed the Zhao Family.
"The audacity of the Zhao Family! They have committed numerous wrongdoings simply because they have wealth. How dare they offend the family of the esteemed Provincial Champion? It's no wonder they are plagued by misfortune! "
"If only they had raised their son properly! They have brought this upon themselves and deserve no good fortune in their lives!"
"Absolutely! A family like theirs deserves to learn a lesson. We should be grateful that fate has revealed their true colors!"
"It's utterly shameless of them to show up at our door after everything they've done!
The two women from the Zhao Family overheard the disparaging comments and felt a surge of fury and humiliation. Unable to bear the situation any longer, they hastily departed from the scene.
Back at home, Zhao Guangyin anxiously awaited the return of his mother and wife. Seeing them arrive, he approached with concern and inquired about the situation.
Madame Zhao, overcome by anger, snapped at him, "Don't make me endure such humiliation! I have lived for so long only to be subjected to this. Instead of supporting me, you are driving me to face further disgrace. How dare you let this happen to me!"
Zhao Guangyin's heart sank as he realized the severity of the situation. He turned to his wife.
Young Madame Quan smiled bitterly, "We were even denied entry at the door! The Shao Family refused to entertain any discussion or accept our gestures of apology."
Madame Zhao sneered, "Let's not dwell on it for now. They're just putting on a show. Shao Yunduan is merely a Recommended Man, not an official. There's no guarantee he'll secure a government position. We must be cautious and ensure Guang doesn't become entangled in their schemes!"
Zhao Guangyin felt a profound sense of weariness and heartache.
He was never as favored as his brother, and his mother's bias towards his brother was evident. However, he never anticipated that his mother would go to such lengths to protect his brother, even in this situation.
Instead of encouraging self-reflection, she instructed him to remain indoors to avoid falling victim to any schemes orchestrated by the Shao Family.
But did the Shao Family really need to set him up? After all, Shao Yunduan's father-in-law was none other than County Magistrate Qiao!
"Mom, have you forgotten about County Magistrate Qiao? This…"
"Stop bringing up County Magistrate Qiao to me!" Madame Zhao felt a surge of annoyance upon hearing his name. "That corrupt official has extorted so much money from us. If he dares to make any moves, we'll bring him down with us!"
"Mom, he can easily deny any involvement with the money. Let's not invite more trouble,"
Madame Zhao was taken aback by her son's words and snapped, "Just leave! Stop standing there obstructing my view! "
Zhao Guangyin sighed and bid his mother farewell, retreating from her