Chapter 1394: It’s Too Late to Say Anything Now
Editor: Henyee Translations
Contemplating Concubine Du’s biting words about “retribution,” Old Master Qiao felt a deep sense of sorrow.
Could it truly be… retribution?
Yet he also harbored a profound sense of injustice. What had he done to deserve this? He had done nothing!
Thinking of his virtuous wife, Ms. Dong…
Third Old Master Qiao’s anger surged, making him want to confront Ms. Dong and deliver a severe reprimand. However, upon further consideration, what would it achieve? Even if he scolded her, what difference would it make?
He couldn’t even handle a concubine; how could he dare harm his lawful wife? Moreover, she was already enduring her own misfortunes. Hongxi’s child had been ruined, and Wei’er’s family affairs remained unresolved. The future was uncertain, and even if he were to resort to extreme measures, he could only endure it.
One thing Concubine Du had spoken rang true:
It was all his fault.
.
If only he had paid more attention to the affairs of the inner chambers, if he had treated his children more equitably and cared for them to some extent, would things have turned out differently?
Would his children have loved and supported each other? Could all the tragedies of today have been averted?
Though he couldn’t be certain, it seemed highly likely!
At the very least, a loving family wouldn’t find themselves in such dire straits.
It was all his fault…
Sadly, it was now too late for regrets.
Everyone held him accountable, their blame resounding. There was no room for forgiveness.
“Take Concubine Du away and confine her. She shall not leave the courtyard. Instruct her maids to keep a watchful eye on her. If I discover that Concubine Du has ventured beyond the courtyard, she can forget about her life!”
After issuing the order, Third Old Master cast a stern glance at Concubine Du and spoke in a low, warning tone, “Listen carefully. Behave yourself and stay put. If you dare to play any more tricks, don’t blame me for being ruthless!”
“And when the time es, it won’t just be you; even Third Girl won’t be spared! Don’t think she’s suffering now. Hmph!”
Concubine Du’s face paled, her earlier audacity now replaced with fear.
As the sky darkened, families across the land paid homage to their ancestors, lighting incense, burning paper money, and setting off firecrackers. This was followed by a lively reunion dinner.
Although the Shao Residence wasn’t crowded, it was filled with joy.
The liveliness was not solely determined by the number of people but by the atmosphere itself.
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan had arranged a meal on the bed, while Lixia, Liqiu, Songshi, and Qingyan sat around the table next to them. The room exuded warmth, the food was abundant, and the aromas were tantalizing. The master and her servants shared a harmonious atmosphere, conversing and laughing.
They hadn’t disclosed that Qiao Xuan would be acpanying Shao Yunduan to Qingdi the following year. Instead, they were told that their Old Master would be escorting Princess Shuangfu for her wedding. The departure date was set shortly after the New Year.
Fearful that Qiao Xuan might feel lonely or sad, they found various ways to convey their loyalty. The overarching message was that although the Old Master was embarking on a lengthy journey, they would ensure the well-being of his wife and provide her with panionship.
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan were deeply moved, unsure whether to laugh or cry.
However, it wasn’t the right time to reveal their plans. After all, Crown Prince had only made a private promise to Shao Yunduan, and it hadn’t been officially announced yet.
While it was virtually certain, it wasn’t appropriate to disclose it prematurely, lest they slip up.
The two of them took the opportunity to give them lessons.
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