Lu Liangwei frowned. “I remember that all new hires at the imperial holiday home have to go through the Imperial Household Department, but you hired her right away without reporting to the department. Is this place a joke to you?”
Although she could tell that Housekeeper Yu was not a wicked man, he had handled this matter inappropriately.
If she did not punish him, others may end up following his example by bringing anyone they wanted into the holiday home, and this place would turn into a breeding ground for danger.
If that were to happen, would she and Long Yang be able to find peace here anymore?
Under the Emperor’s rule, Great Shang had become a force to be reckoned with in the eyes of other kingdoms, hence he had quite a number of secret enemies.
Thank goodness it was only Li Tong’er this time – if it were an assassin, wouldn’t the Emperor have been in danger?
It was nearly impossible to guard against sudden attacks!
The thought made Lu Liangwei’s face harden. “The imperial holiday home does not need an impulsive housekeeper. Go to the counting house and collect your salary for this month, Housekeeper Yu. Then you may leave.”
At her words, Housekeeper Yu’s face turned ashen, but he bowed his head without arguing back. “Thank you for your mercy, Your Highness.”
Li Tong’er was anxious to plead for him, but the cold look on Lu Liangwei’s face eventually kept her from opening her mouth.
It was obvious that Lu Liangwei would not revoke her judgment.
Besides, it was already considered a light punishment.
She looked at Housekeeper Yu apologetically. “I’m sorry for bringing you into this.”
Housekeeper Yu did not blame her and comforted her instead, “It’s not your fault. I’m the one to blame. I was too careless, and I’ve betrayed His Majesty and Her Highness’s trust.”
With that, he stood up, bowed once again to Lu Liangwei, then finally turned and left.
Li Tong’er was still kneeling on the floor. She still had a lot to say, but in the end, she could not bring herself to say anything and kowtowed to Lu Liangwei. “Since you’ve spared me, I shall take my leave, Your Highness.”
Lu Liangwei nodded. “Go ahead.”
Li Tong’er rose, and looking at the young girl, suddenly said, “I apologize for what I did.”
She was referring to her attempt at seducing the Emperor.
“It’s no big deal. Even if there were ten of you, His Majesty still wouldn’t fall for you. You’ve underestimated him and his love for me, so you don’t have to apologize.”
Li Tong’er flushed in embarrassment.
Lu Liangwei had never taken her seriously, which made her apology seem a little conceited.
Unable to stay a second longer, she left hastily.
Zhu Yu came out from the courtyard, a little indignant to see the woman walking away. “Miss, how could you let her go like that? Remember what she was planning… Aren’t you being too kind to her?”
“Then do you have a better suggestion?” Lu Liangwei asked, smiling.
“I…” Zhu Yu felt that anyone who attempted to seduce the Emperor and replace her mistress deserved to be put to death, but she could not bring herself to say it, considering that Li Tong’er had not actually committed any heinous crimes.
“Never mind. Li Tong’er has come to her senses, plus she didn’t exactly do anything atrocious. Since she’s willing to turn over a new leaf, let’s not be too cruel to her,” Lu Liangwei said airily.
“You’re right, Miss.” Zhu Yu nodded in agreement.
Lu Liangwei was starting to feel tired from standing for so long, so she turned and walked into the courtyard.
Long Yang was drinking tea in the house. When he saw her come in, he got up and took her hand, helping her sit down. “Are you tired?”
“A bit.” Lu Liangwei nodded, not mentioning what had happened outside just now, but Long Yang did not ask her either.
“In that case, you should get some rest.” Long Yang scooped her into his arms and headed to the bedroom.