Chapter 67

Chapter 67

As the sky began to brighten, hinting at an impending clear day, the wind in the courtyard showed no signs of abating.

Xun Yunhe invited Pei Xun into the warm chamber on the west side of the hall. The charcoal fire had just been lit, and the room was still rather desolate. This wasn't Pei Xun's first visit to the Xun residence, and he clearly noticed that the estate had changed significantly since his last visit. There were more flowers and plants in the courtyard, with the scenery arranged tastefully.

It was as if a lifeless tree had suddenly found the will to live, infusing everything with vitality.

This demonstrated the weight Xu Yunqi held in Xun Yunhe's heart.

The two sat across from each other at the table. As soon as Pei Xun took his seat, he clapped his hands, and a servant entered, carrying a brocaded box, which he placed on the table before retiring. Pei Xun then personally opened the box, revealing an ancient yellowed silk scroll inside. He carefully removed it and unfolded it before Xun Yunhe.

"Yesterday, while tidying up the storeroom, I stumbled upon this ancient chess manual. Not long ago, I heard His Majesty mention how he hasn't played chess with the Venerable Grand Secretary for quite some time. So, I thought of presenting this to Venerable Grand Secretary Xun so that he can enjoy a game with His Majesty."

Pei Xun's words were well-measured.

Xun Yunhe was known for his incorruptibility, not caring for wealth or women. Many officials who had attempted to curry favor through bribes had returned empty-handed. However, no scholar could resist ancient books, calligraphy, paintings, musical instruments, or chess manuals. Xun Yunhe was no exception. Pei Xun knew that Xun Yunhe never accepted gifts, so he invoked the emperor to make it difficult for Xun Yunhe to decline. It was also a way for him to indirectly show filial piety to his father, killing two birds with one stone.

There was a backstory to Pei Xun's tidying of the storeroom. Recently, a drought had struck the Qingzhou region, leaving the people with no harvest. Pei Xun promptly sold valuable items from his estate to exchange for silver to aid the Ministry of Finance in their relief efforts. This act had already spread throughout the official district, forming a stark contrast to the debauched former crown prince's actions. It was clearly a clever move by Pei Xun to win over the hearts of the people.

It was clear that Xun Yunhe wasn't so easy to deal with. After a careful glance at the chess manual, he chuckled and said, "Many thanks for Prince's generosity, but it just so happens that I already possess this very same chess manual."

This was a straightforward rejection of Pei Xun's goodwill.

Pei Xun's expression faltered slightly. "Is that so?" He clearly didn't want to accept this reality.

Xun Yunhe smiled faintly and nodded. "If Your Highness doesn't believe me, I can recite it from memory and show you."

Pei Xun could only respond with a bitter smile now.

Xun Yunhe was well-read and had an incredible memory; he had likely memorized the entire chess manual with just one look.

Not only was Xun Yunhe resolute, but there was also a hint of annoyance in his demeanor.

Pei Xun understood then that his ruthless move against the Xi Palace last time, which implicated Xu Yunqi, had displeased Xun Yunhe.

In truth, Pei Xun had spent two days pondering over the matter involving Xun Yunhe and the Xi Palace.

Regardless of who ascended the throne, under the current circumstances, Xun Yunhe's position as the prime minister was unshakable. Even Pei Xun himself could only groom Su Ziyuan as Xun Yunhe's successor, with no intention of replacing the prime minister. Xun Yunhe held immense sway in the court; anyone aspiring to smoothly inherit the throne would need the support of this cabinet leader.

Yet, Xun Yunhe was precisely Prince Xi's father-in-law.

Thus, Pei Xun ventured a bold idea. He intended to sever the ties between the Xi Palace and Xun Yunhe.

It sounded implausible, but Pei Xun had a certain degree of confidence.

There existed an insurmountable gulf between Pei Muheng and Xu Yunqi – Xu Yunqi was determined to practice medicine and had no intention of yielding to Pei Muheng. It was evident that Xun Yunhe was well aware of this fact, and it presented an opportunity for Pei Xun.

He neatly put away the chessboard and retrieved a book from the lower layer of the brocaded box before pushing it towards Xun Yunhe.

"In addition to the chess manual, I also found this medical book. Your Excellency might not know, but I once taught Yunqi archery, so we share a teacher-student bond. When I stumbled upon this medical text, I thought of her. Seeing your fatherly protectiveness, Your Highness has decided to present it to you as well, helping you extend a favor to someone."

Xun Yunhe's gaze fell on the yellowed cover, and his eyes narrowed, as expected.

Pei Xun knew that this gift had struck a chord with Xun Yunhe. He leisurely fanned himself with an ivory fan, a playful smile on his lips. "Yunqi's character is so carefree and innocent, like a soaring swallow in the sky. Did Your Excellency give her this name?"

At the mention of his daughter, Xun Yunhe's expression softened visibly. He chuckled and said,

"Yes, I was deeply fond of her when she was born. I searched through countless books of poetry before settling on that name."

Pei Xun nodded slowly.

"'Life as a wandering guest, losing the serenity of Yunqi. Even if there's a chance to revisit, the mist and clouds might confuse.' It's a fine name. With mountains as companions and water as friends, dwelling amidst the clouds—how free-spirited that must be."

Pei Xun's words were a subtle reminder to Xun Yunhe not to forget the original intention behind the naming. Xu Yunqi was meant to soar in the skies, not be confined within the palace walls like a caged bird.

Upon finishing his speech, Pei Xun clearly noticed the gravity in Xun Yunhe's eyes.

Having made his point, Pei Xun had achieved his purpose and didn't linger. He carelessly tossed aside the box and left.

Watching Pei Xun's leisurely strides, Xun Yunhe's expression darkened quickly.

Something was amiss here.

Pei Xun's intentions today were clear: he didn't want Xun Yunhe involved in the struggle for succession in the Xi Palace, and he wanted freedom for his daughter.

This raised another question: if the old man was truly in Pei Xun's hands, and Pei Xun knew the secret of the Thirteen Needles, how could he possibly attempt to make such a move without permission?

Xun Yunhe and Empress Yunqi held a feud that could not be reconciled.

There were two possibilities. First, Pei Xun might have captured Elder Zhang without knowing that he was Yunqi's maternal grandfather, thus attempting to win him over blindly.

Second, Elder Zhang might not be in Pei Xun's custody, and Pei Xun was unaware of the secret behind the Thirteen Needles technique.

In the former scenario, they had the advantage of operating in the shadows while their enemy was in plain sight, which was a favorable situation for both Xun Yunhe and Yunqi.

However, if it was the latter case, they were in trouble.

Even someone as composed as Xun Yunhe couldn't help but break into a cold sweat.

The transfer order was Su Ziyuan's doing, and the mastermind behind the scenes was undoubtedly Empress Su. With such a significant matter at hand, how could she not inform Pei Xun?

Xun Yunhe keenly sensed that an important clue might have been overlooked.

*

After bidding farewell to Xun Yunhe, Xu Yunqi returned straight to Qinghui Garden.

Over at the medicine corner, Yinxing had already prepared the herbal decoction, which she handed to Nurse Chen to deliver to the study. Seeing Xu Yunqi listlessly sitting in the eastern chamber, sipping tea, she approached with a cheerful smile and asked,

"Miss, why aren't you visiting Lord Husband in the main courtyard?"

The maid seemed to be hoping she would go.

Xu Yunqi shot her a withering look and gazed out the window with her teacup in hand. "If he's pretending to be ill, let him suffer through it."

It was rare for Xu Yunqi to speak out of anger, which showed how upset she was this time.

Seeing her delicate face set in determination, Silver Apricot felt genuine joy.

Miss had finally shown some human vulnerability.

"Indeed, yes, let him suffer until he's half-dead. Then no one will bother us about seeking Grandfather's help," Silver Apricot said seriously, playing along.

Xu Yunqi put down her teacup at these words, looking at her slowly before being amused despite herself. "You imp, which side are you on?!" She tapped Silver Apricot's forehead lightly.

Silver Apricot burst into laughter. "Of course I'm on Miss's side. If Miss has the ability, then truly don't bother with him."

Xu Yunqi remained silent.

At that moment, Chen Mommy returned with the medicine, standing outside the curtain and greeting Xu Yunqi with a warm smile,

"Madam, Third Master has sent someone to inquire three times now, hoping you would join him for dinner in his study."

Pei Muheng had been eager to rush over after learning that Xu Yunqi had stormed back to the inner courtyard. However, he reconsidered and remembered Yunqi's advice to stay indoors. If he were to venture out into the wind recklessly, it might only infuriate her further, so he refrained from acting impulsively and instead asked Chen Mommy to come to her.

Upon hearing this, Xu Yunqi felt at ease once more.

He was always astute, knowing just how much to give and when, leaving her unable to find fault with him.

Fortunately, he was willing to put in the effort. If she were in his shoes, she'd rather read a few pages of medical texts or concoct some pills than engage in such romantic gestures.

Xu Yunqi was a person of great magnanimity; she didn't hold Pei Muheng's actions against him. As the dusk of late autumn fell, she walked to the study, stepping past him into the western chamber without a word.

Pei Muheng stood by the display cabinet, watching her enter, observing as she moved past him and sat down at the desk without uttering a sound. He turned around, leaning against the cabinet with his arms crossed, gazing at her with a gentle smile in his eyes. "Yunqi?" He tried calling her name.

Xu Yunqi remained composed and tranquil, merely tending to her skirt, showing no reaction to his attempt at engagement.

Finally, she was no longer being indifferent to him and was willing to show her emotions.

Pei Muheng gradually smiled and slowly crouched down in front of her. Extending his arms, he was about to embrace her waist. Xu Yunqi glanced at him and said, "What are you doing?"

Pei Muheng's dark eyes shimmered with a bright glow as he pleaded softly, "Don't be angry anymore, okay?"

"I'm not angry," Xu Yunqi replied gently this time. "If you don't care about your own body, why should I be angry? Oh, I forgot to tell you that soaking in cold water is detrimental to having children."

Upon hearing this, Pei Muheng's composure was lost. His brows knitted tightly together. "Yunqi, is that true?"

Xu Yunqi blinked and said, "Would I lie to you?"

Pei Muheng's face was filled with frustration. He placed his arms around her sides, looking like a withered eggplant.

Xu Yunqi couldn't bear to see him like this. She chuckled softly and asked, "Will you dare to do it again next time?" Her eyes flickered, like a tranquil pool of autumn water. That pool of autumn water seemed to ripple through his eyes and into the depths of his heart.

Pei Muheng stared at her intently, his heart surging with emotion.

Feeling uncomfortable under his intense gaze, Xu Yunqi averted her eyes again and spoke seriously, "Don't worry, I've already used acupuncture to expel the cold from your body. You'll be fine..."

Her voice was as soft as a feather brushing against his earlobe.

Pei Muheng's arms tightened, gradually encircling her before he lifted her horizontally in his arms and walked straight towards the inner chamber.

Xu Yunqi's cheeks flushed as she glanced at the servants passing by outside. She whispered in annoyance, "What are you doing? It's almost time for dinner."

"It's still early..." His voice echoed softly in her ear.

Xu Yunqi thought he was about to do something intimate, so she closed her eyes helplessly.

Fortunately, the man merely wrapped his arm around her slender form, holding her close without any further actions.

The two of them lay in the bed, their position intimate.

Pei Muheng's chin rested on the tip of her hair, and he asked softly, "What did your father-in-law say to you?"

He hadn't called him that in front of Xun Yunhe, but he acknowledged the title in private.

Xu Yunqi didn't dwell on such details. She shook her head and replied, "He didn't say much."

The man behind her clearly paused.

With Xun Yunhe's solemn demeanor, how could he not have said anything? After a moment of silence, Pei Muheng's tone was crisp and clear, "He didn't tell you to leave me, did he?"

Pei Muheng could tolerate anything, but he would never allow Xun Yunhe to interfere with his feelings for Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi turned her gaze, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him, "No, he just inquired about Grandfather and asked me to inform him of anything in the future."

Pei Muheng was somewhat skeptical but didn't press further. He held her for a moment before unable to resist, he gently kissed her neck,

"Yunqi, you've always been important to me. In the past, it was because you were my wife, but now it's because of the person Yunqi that you are."

He didn't evade the fact that there had been a rift between them before. At their wedding, he truly had no feelings for Xu Yunqi. His affection for her had grown over time through their interactions.

His words were simple and unadorned, lacking grandiose language.

It was a way that Xu Yunqi liked and was willing to accept.

Leaning against his chest, her lips moved softly as she murmured an affirmation.

Pei Muheng saw a hidden blush beneath her refined composure on her fair cheeks. Unable to resist, he gently caressed her earlobe and whispered, "Nanny?"

This tender nickname sent shivers down Xu Yunqi's spine.

She immediately turned her body in his embrace, staring at him speechlessly. "What are you calling me?"

Pei Muheng felt a twinge of jealousy. "Your nickname is Nanny, and I'm not wrong. Are you saying only your father-in-law can call you that?"

Xu Yunqi's throat tightened. "That's not what I meant."

In the past, she had avoided Xun Yunhe, leaving no time to care about what he called her. Now, hearing 'Nanny' from Pei Muheng's lips gave it an entirely different connotation – one that was strangely intimate.

"Anyway, don't call me that."

Pei Muheng was persistent. "Xu Yunqi, you can't play favorites."

Annoyed, Xu Yunqi retorted, "Stop being irrational; this is a different matter altogether."

"What different matter? Next time, if you have the courage, tell your father-in-law not to use your pet name in front of him. Otherwise, I'll keep calling you Nanny."

Pei Mushan found the name delightfully appealing.

Xun Yunhe had truly invested his heart and soul in her, causing Pei Mushan to suddenly feel a twinge of jealousy. He needed to surpass his father-in-law in her eyes.

Xu Yunqi ignored him, turning her back and closing her eyes with her wrist as a pillow.

She spent the night in the study. The next day, when Pei Mushan went to the Temple of Heavenly Praise, she returned to Qinghui Garden.

The urgency of finding her grandfather left Pei Mushan with little time to spend at home, as she continued her routine of leaving early and returning late each day.

On the second day of the eleventh lunar month, winter had fully set in. Many elderly and weak citizens caught a cold, flooding Chengyang's medical clinic. Xu Yunqi took Silver Apricot to the clinic to assist with consultations.

The following morning, after a rare sunny day, a message was delivered to the palace from the Yan residence, stating that Pei Mushan was ill.

The Empress of Xihua was deeply worried and instructed Nurse Hao, "Go tell Yunqi and ask if she would like to come with me to visit Shan Shan at the Yan family residence?"

Xu Yunqi readily agreed and promptly changed into a pink brocade robe adorned with golden butterflies, topping it off with a water peach-colored floral jacket. She arrived at Jinhua Hall, where Empress Xihua was already prepared for the visit. Scanning Xu Yunqi, the Empress noticed her lack of an overcoat and frowned.

"Even though the sun is out, the wind outside is biting. Why aren't you wearing a cloak?"

Xu Yunqi had been consuming donkey hide glue daily to nourish her body, so she didn't feel the cold. Just as she was about to explain, Princess Xi's consort had already instructed Maomao to fetch a garment. It was a bright red fur coat embroidered with golden pheasant feathers and peach blossoms.

"This is a fur coat I made last year but never wore because I thought it was too vibrant. Don't mind it, put it on for now. I'll have a few more tailored for you later."

In the past, only Pei Mushan had received such treatment.

Xu Yunqi never paid much attention to her attire or diet, so she smiled and replied, "This one is fine, there's no need for more."

Princess Xi's consort didn't argue further and led the way out.

The Yan family's residence was separated from the palace by the Imperial City. After leaving the Xi Palace and heading south for a while before turning west to cross Zhengyangmen Avenue, they arrived at the Yanyang Lane where the Yan family lived. The Elder Madam Yan was waiting at the entrance, beaming as she welcomed the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law duo.

Seeing her mother-in-law smiling carefree, Princess Xi felt annoyed. Her daughter was ill, yet this Elder Madam Yan didn't seem to have any worries. Indeed, a mother-in-law was not the same as a birth mother. With a composed expression, Princess Xi entered the residence.

It was Xu Yunqi's first time at the Yan family's residence. She found the entrance spacious and luxurious, even grander than the palace. The Yan family's two decades of serving as high-ranking officials exuded an elegant demeanor.

Unbothered by Princess Xi's sullen face, Elder Madam Yan instead took Xu Yunqi's hand and asked warmly, "Yunqi, it's your first visit to our Yan residence. We're honored, and I'm overjoyed. But I'm unsure of your taste. Please tell me so I can instruct the kitchen to prepare accordingly."

This time, Princess Xi wasn't at a disadvantage. As they walked through the hall, she glanced at Elder Madam Yan.

With a preference for light flavors, there's no need for those greasy meats; the fish should be fresh and cut open, steamed with scallions and garlic for a tender taste that she enjoys... Other dishes can be skipped, but we mustn't lack the new cauliflower."

Xu Yunqi heard this and gave a quiet glance at the back of Princess Xi.

She might not be picky, but that didn't mean she had no preferences.

Princess Xi's words were spot on.

Madam Yan was as clear-minded as a mirror, laughing heartily. "Very well, I'll see to it."

As they arrived at Qiutang Courtyard where Pei Mushan resided, they saw Yan Shaoling standing in the corridor, bowing respectfully. Still clad in armor, he looked travel-worn, indicating that he had rushed back upon receiving news.

"Greetings to my mother-in-law."

Princess Xi responded to her son-in-law with a warm expression. Standing on the steps, she replied, "Why are you back? Serving in the military isn't child's play. If word reaches His Majesty, you'll surely be reprimanded. With us here, you can go back and attend to your duties."

Madam Yan resonated with these words. Yan Shaoling was now the family's only hope, but he wouldn't listen to her. It was good for him to receive some guidance from his mother-in-law. Smiling, Madam Yan stood aside, watching the scene unfold.

Yan Shaoling wasn't one to be easily tamed. He laughed heartily. "It's just city patrol. Whether I'm there or not, my comrades will carry on as usual. It won't cause any trouble."

Seeing his mother-in-law's temper rising, he immediately adopted a conciliatory tone and pointed at Xu Yunqi, "After Third Sister-in-Law has her pulse taken, I'll be reassured and return to the camp right away."

Princess Xi said no more and gracefully entered the house.

As it was a gathering of women, Yan Shaoling did not enter but instead retreated to wait outside for news.

No sooner had Princess Xi and Xu Yunqi crossed the threshold than they heard Pei Mushan retching from inside.

Princess Xi froze for a moment, her mind racing with thoughts. No wonder the old lady had been beaming – this was the reason.

Without betraying any emotion, she entered the room.

Pei Mushan was lying on a canopied bed, leaning over the side to vomit. Beside her sat a woman soothing her back with a calm, experienced tone, "You'll feel better after throwing up. A sip of sour plum soup will do the trick..."

It was Wen Ruyu, daughter of Duke Wen.

The group entered noisily, exchanging greetings and pleasantries. Princess Xi and Lady Yan sat on a window-side couch, while Wen Ruyu drew Xu Yunqi to sit beside Pei Mushan.

Princess Xi and Lady Yan were masters of their emotions, asking nothing after entering. They simply watched the three women interact.

Upon catching sight of Xu Yunqi, Pei Mushan immediately threw herself into her embrace, clasping her waist and weeping bitterly.

"Sister-in-law, I've missed you so much."

Wen Ruyu chuckled mischievously beside him. "Off with you, now lie down obediently and let your sister-in-law take your pulse."

Pei Mushan did not move, but instead drew Xu Yunqi even closer in her embrace. Yunqi's smile remained unchanged, her customary warmth and grace. With one arm encircling her younger sister-in-law, she gently freed Mushan's wrist with her other hand, cradling it against her own chest to take her pulse. Unconsciously, all eyes in the room were drawn to her. Every word she spoke, every gesture she made, every fleeting expression of mirth seemed to bathe those around her in the gentle warmth of springtime.

In the early months, the pulse was not particularly distinct. After holding it for a while, Xu Yunqi released it and simply asked Pei Mushan,

"How many days has she been vomiting?"

Pei Mushan, leaning in Xu Yunqi's arms, dizzily replied, "I threw up last night, thinking it was due to a chill in my stomach. But after sleeping, it got worse. My stomach feels as if I've swallowed a fly, causing such disgust..."

Hui Wangfei couldn't bear to listen and shot her an annoyed glance. "Nonsense."

The people in the room couldn't help but chuckle.

Upon hearing this, Pei Mushan immediately lifted her face from Xu Yunqi's embrace and stared at her mother, saying,

"Mother, to be honest, I feel utterly disgusted," Xu Yunqi said with sincerity.

Seeing the tears on Pei Mushan's face smudging Xu Yunqi's fur robe, the Princess Xi furrowed her brow. "Oh dear, sit properly and don't dirty your sister-in-law's clothes."

Only then did Pei Mushan notice that Xu Yunqi was wearing a familiar fur robe. She immediately cried out in protest,

"Oh, Mother, why have you given such a fine item to Sister-in-law? This is the finest fur in your storehouse, which you promised me!"

With her arms akimbo, Pei Mushan pouted in anger.

Princess Xi, of course, knew that her daughter had no intention of competing with Xu Yunqi for the fur; she was merely finding an excuse to belittle her.

The Elder Lady Yan nearly choked on her tea from laughter. Pointing at Pei Mushan, she scolded playfully,

"You little girl, daring to be jealous of your sister-in-law! Our Yan family won't lack furs for you. You can choose one from my storehouse later. If you dare bully your sister-in-law, I'll complain to your brother."

Wen Ruyu chimed in with jests, causing everyone to burst into laughter.

Xu Yunqi allowed them to jest, focusing instead on studying Pei Mushan's expression and inquiring about her menstrual cycle. Finally, he said,

"The pregnancy is still in its early stages, so the pulse isn't very distinct, but it's most likely true."

Wen Ruyu promptly offered her congratulations, reaching over Xu Yunqi to pinch Pei Mushan's cheek playfully.

"You're truly blessed, my dear. Barely a fortnight after your wedding, and you're already with child. Your family treats you like a treasure. You must have accumulated virtue from past lives."

She, like Pei Mushan, came from an affluent background, but her husband was nowhere near as loving and considerate as Yan Shaoling.

Pei Mushan blushed at Wen Ruyu's words, continuing to cling to Xu Yunqi. "I owe it all to Sister-in-law."

With Xu Yunqi's guidance, the couple spent their first night together that very evening, and Yan Shaoling proved to be a fierce tiger or leopard, visiting Pei Mushan's chambers two or three times throughout the night. She was left completely drained by his attentions.

Calculating the timeline, it was during that initial night that conception occurred - a feat undoubtedly facilitated by Xu Yunqi.

Unaware of the details, Lady Elder and Princess Xi remained silent, while Xu Yunqi smiled without comment.

Wen Ruyu couldn't help but feel envious, though her admiration dimmed when her gaze fell upon Xu Yunqi's flushed cheeks.

She had forgotten about Xu Yunqi. Xu Yunqi had been married to Pei Mushan for over a year, but there was still no news of a pregnancy. No doubt she was anxious, and the matriarch had noticed the signs, suppressing her joy so as not to show it too openly.

The Duchess of Xi was already shedding tears from excitement. "Being with child is indeed a great joy...” But after the initial elation, a wave of endless sorrow followed.

Perhaps this was the heavens' punishment for them, for neglecting Yunqi in the past, the Duchess thought.

The Duchess's tears kept flowing. "Look at me, I'm truly overjoyed."

Everyone saw through her but chose not to say anything.

Wen Ruyu, fearing that Xu Yunqi might be upset, found an excuse to take her out of the eastern annex, leaving the Duchess of Xi and the matriarch with Pei Mushan.

Xu Yunqi followed her out of the main hall and into a side room on the west side. The two of them sat by the brazier, warming themselves.

Seeing Xu Yunqi's calm and composed expression, Wen Ruyu softly advised, "Don't rush things, and don't be unhappy. It's best when everything happens naturally."

Xu Yunqi was left in a state of amused exasperation.

"I'm not unhappy," she replied.

Wen Ruyu wore a look that said Xu Yunqi should stop pretending. "I've been there before. I was anxious at first, but then I relaxed, and the child came along."

Xu Yunqi didn't bother explaining. She smiled warmly. "Alright."

"By the way, I forgot to tell you. After the last incident, my father gave that scoundrel a good lesson. He's been behaving lately, staying home to teach our daughter to read. He doesn't even leave the house," Wen Ruyu said, feeling vindicated.

"Wan Doctor took his pulse and prescribed two remedies. If he behaves, I'll stay with him. If not, I'll just wait for him to die," she declared.

Xu Yunqi looked at her with concern. "Why don't you divorce him? By waiting for him, aren't you wasting your own life?"

Wen Ruyu's expression remained cold. "After everything he's done to me, why should I step aside? Let him have a happy marriage and more children? In his dreams! The Chengguo Duke's estate can only belong to me and my daughter."

"Besides, what would happen to my daughters if we divorced? If we returned to the Wen residence, we'd be relying on my brother and sister-in-law. And if I remarried, who would truly care for them?"

At the mention of the children, Xu Yunqi had no grounds to argue.

"In that case, it's undoubtedly best for the children, though it will be tough on you," Xu Yunqi said, a faint sadness in her eyes.

When her mother, Zhang, had left years ago, hadn't Xu Yunqi also felt resentment? It wasn't until she grew older that she realized how fortunate it was that Zhang had made that choice.

Rather than enduring hardships alongside her, she wished for her mother to have her own home, so they wouldn't be a burden to each other.

Wen Ruyu wiped away her tears, her tone resolute. "No, I don't feel wronged. No matter how despicable the Cheng family is, they are still their biological father. A biological parent is always better than an outsider. As long as they are well, I am not wronged."

Xu Yunqi lowered his gaze, remaining silent for a while.

After the noon meal, Princess Xi bid farewell with Xu Yunqi.

On their way back, Princess Xi had a change of heart. Her son was reaping what he sowed, and it was fine if they delayed having children. It was a good thing that her daughter was pregnant, and that her second daughter-in-law was also expecting. Putting herself in the Yan family's shoes, she felt a twinge of guilt for the kindness they showed her daughter. Thus, she instructed to set up the evening meal in the flower hall, to celebrate Li Xuanyan's pregnancy.

Pei Mucheng arrived home at the third watch of the evening, when the sky had just turned dark. As usual, he first went to the Jinhua Hall to pay his respects. Passing through the ornamental gate, he saw the lights glowing brightly in the flower hall on the eastern side, accompanied by laughter and chatter, suggesting a banquet was underway.

Perhaps Xu Yunqi was there too, so Pei Mucheng stepped forward.

Just as he was about to ascend the steps, a gentle voice suddenly echoed from behind him.

"My husband, come quick and help me..."

Pei Mucheng spun around abruptly.

That tender and crisp "Dearest Husband" would have sounded incredibly delightful if it had come from Xu Yunqi's lips.

Pei Mujing supported his pregnant wife as they carefully passed by Pei Mujing's side. Seeing him standing rooted to the spot, he inquired,

"Younger Brother, what are you daydreaming about?"