Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
But upon hearing Qiao Xuan's request, Madame Qiao couldn't help but feel annoyed. She believed that Qiao Xuan was being far too unruly. Where did they think they could just take a nap? Did they forget how they used to behave in the past?
In her previous days, she would have never dared to make such a request.
Although Madame Qiao wanted to give a resounding negative answer, she restrained herself from bursting out in anger. It was fortunate that she was out of sight.
Deciding to accommodate their request, Madame Qiao instructed the servants to find a suitable place for Qiao Xuan, Lixia, and Liqiu to rest. The courtyard was carefully prepared, and despite some wilted flowers on the table, an array of pastries, snacks, and drinks were served.
However, Lixia and Liqiu couldn't help but voice their dissatisfaction upon seeing the pastries and snacks.
"The pastries lack the smoothness of ours! They are so roughly-made!"
"The tea has no scent and looks far inferior to what we have at home!"
"And these flowers, they are not as pretty or fragrant as ours!"
Qiao Xuan couldn't help but be amused by their complaints. After all, she was the one who had created those pastries at home, using the finest ingredients. The tea she served was made from the most precious tea leaves, cultivated and nurtured under her watchful eye with her unique powers. Naturally, nothing could compare to the quality she had achieved.
The Qiao Family was no longer a threat to her.
Together with Shao Yunduan, they had been strategizing on how to sever ties with the Qiao Family. They had no intention of maintaining any closeness with such tasteless and shameless individuals.
Soon, their plans would come to fruition.
As the mistress and maids were engaged in conversation, Concubine Du appeared with the reluctant Qiao Kou in tow. It seemed that Concubine Du had come to beg for forgiveness for their past wrongdoings.
The harsh reality of their lives was evident in the worn-out appearances of both Concubine Du and Qiao Kou. Concubine Du, who used to exude arrogance and pride, now seemed devoid of any such expressions.
Qiao Xuan had no interest in engaging in trivial arguments with them, but she also had no intention of forgiving them easily. What right did they have to beg for her forgiveness now, expecting her to grant it?
The previous owner of her body must have endured a great deal of suffering, which was why Qiao Xuan herself found it difficult to establish a harmonious relationship with them. Especially Qiao Kou, who had intentionally caused her numerous troubles.
"You are not in a position to demand forgiveness, and I am not inclined to grant it," Qiao Xuan stated firmly.
Concubine Du appeared relieved. "Second Miss, are you saying you have decided to forgive us? Thank you…"
"I'm sorry for the misunderstanding, Concubine Du. The truth is, we have no connection whatsoever. We have never offended each other, nor do we need to seek forgiveness. The best solution is for us to live separately. What are your thoughts on that?"
Regardless of whether Concubine Du was willing to accept the truth, she was nothing more than a slave to Madame Qiao, bound to carry out her orders regardless of her own desires or dislikes. Rebelling against Madame Qiao's commands was out of the question for her.
While Qiao Xuan despised Concubine Du for her actions and felt anger towards her, she had no intention of seeking revenge or causing her unnecessary hardship. However, if Concubine Du ever attempted to deceive her or set her up, Qiao Xuan would not forgive her, nor would she be accommodating or allow her to have her way.
Concubine Du's expression stiffened. After a moment of contemplation, she forced a smile. "Second Miss, you are correct…"
Concubine Du had initially planned to beg Qiao Xuan for forgiveness, hoping that if Qiao Xuan showed leniency, they could form an alliance. In doing so, she would use Qiao Xuan's influence to bring down Madame Qiao, while also gaining personal benefits from the situation.
However, Qiao Xuan proved unexpectedly difficult to persuade.
Not daring to linger any longer, Concubine Du muttered a few more uncertain words and hastily departed with Qiao Kou.
Lixia and Liqiu glanced disdainfully at them, remarking on the fickleness of both the mother and daughter.
Qiao Xuan let out a mocking laugh.. "Concubines can only navigate their existence through such means, constantly searching for a solid footing but never truly finding it!'