The Vice Minister of Rites’ Madam Shen couldn’t have imagined that the Song Family really invited them over as guests, especially since they sent an individual invitation to Fu Qing. Madam Shen knew exactly what this meant.
While sighing about her niece’s good fortune, Madam Shen secretly envied that her own daughters, who were about the same age, had no prospects. Alas.
"Why do you sigh, Madam?" Hong Cui, her trusted maid, smiled and said, "It’s your blessing that Miss Qing received an individual invitation. If she really is that fortunate and both families are satisfied, wouldn’t Miss Qing be grateful for your kindness? After all, you are her aunt."
Madam Shen smiled with a tinge of reproach, "I’m just feeling sentimental. Qing has luck, yet Yun seems immature. Otherwise, sigh..."
"Our Miss is still young, with a temper that is pure and somewhat spoiled. We should take our time to find the right match."
"That’s precisely what’s worrisome. Who knows what kind of family she’ll marry into in the future?" Madam Shen was deeply concerned.
Hong Cui chuckled, "When the time is right, a good family will naturally come along."
Outside, another maid came to report that someone had been sent from the Dowager Madam’s side to ask if they were ready.
Madam Shen’s smile faded, and she let out a huff.
Hong Cui instructed the maid to reply that they were about to set off, then turned back to find Madam Shen looking displeased, and quietly said, "Madam, please don’t be angry. Bringing one more person along isn’t a big deal. If things don’t work out, at least we won’t be laughed at, right?"
"I naturally understand that logic, but I wonder how people can be so biased. Can the reputation of the third young lady, spoiled as she is, be saved? Yet I’m still asked to bring her to the banquet, unafraid she’ll cause trouble for the family." Madam Shen said indignantly, "Bringing her along, do they think she stands a chance? A young lady with a notorious reputation, who would consider her?"
"Madam," Hong Cui gently scolded.
"Forget it, forget it, I can’t argue with her. Make sure they closely follow the third young lady, don’t let her cause trouble for me, or if she offends the Song Family, we’ll see if they still indulge that second household." Madam Shen snorted coldly.
Hong Cui sighed helplessly. Every family has a biased Dowager Madam, and Shen Family is no exception. What can be done but endure?
Duke Zhongyong Mansion.
Madam Gu of the Duke Zhongyong Mansion felt somewhat uneasy. Ever since she had her nephew meet Song Ruqi, Madam Song was upset and became indifferent. When other marriage matters were brought up later, she would interrupt directly, not allowing any further discussion.
Now that Song Ruqi was betrothed, Madam Song finally invited them to a banquet. Perhaps to get closer? But Madam Gu had heard that the real focus wasn’t the Duke Zhongyong Mansion, but rather the Shen Family, as it seems the Song Dowager had taken a liking to one of the Shen Family’s young ladies.
It seems they are using the Duke Zhongyong Mansion as a cover.
Madam Gu was quite upset, her sister-in-law had gained prestige and yet looked down on her own family.
In the past, when the Song Family was not as influential, they often sought help from her family. Now that they’ve prospered, there’s no thought of supporting them, only acting opportunistically.
However vexed she was, Madam Gu couldn’t refuse to attend. After all, the last time she had arranged for her nephew to encounter Song Ruqi secretly, even the Marquis got involved and was angry with her for several days, not visiting her main quarters and instead staying with his concubines.
Later when they reconciled, the Marquis mentioned that although Song Zhiyuan holds power, the Duke Mansion had been in decline these past years, so the connection through marriage between the families mustn’t be further strained.
Close ties, close ties, even the Marquis doesn’t truly believe if his sister sees the Gu Family favorably. Humph.
Madam Song sneezed twice, looked up at the sky, and wondered if the weather was changing?
No, someone is cursing you in their heart!