Since the deaths of their father, eldest brother, and second brother on the battlefield, and the remarriage of their eldest sister-in-law and the suicide of their second sister-in-law, the Zheng family has fallen into silence. This silence is not due to the decline of the family's fortunes, but rather the collapse of the family members' spirits.
During those long three years, the family was in chaos. The mother was mentally unstable, the younger sister was willful and unruly, and the nephews and nieces were young and ignorant.
He tried everything to help them regain their spirits, but with little success.
After all, he is away from home for a long time, and even if he makes the most thorough arrangements, it is difficult to cover everything. Many things can only be left to fate.
However, everything began to change quietly after Gu Qinlan entered the house.
Initially, he didn't have high expectations for Gu Qinlan, because he was well aware of the current situation of his family members. Gu Qinlan was still young, and although she was exceptionally intelligent, it would be extremely difficult for her to single-handedly confront the powerful Duan Prince's Mansion.
However, she gave him a huge surprise.
She not only brought order to the Prince Duan's mansion, but also gave his family members a new lease on life, achieving unprecedented unity and harmony.
Whenever he thought of these things, his gaze towards Gu Qinlan was filled with warmth and gratitude. "You've worked hard these past six months."
Gu Qinlan smiled gently and replied, "Your Highness is too kind. This is all I should do."
Zheng Dinglian had a thousand words in his heart, but when he saw her, he was like a gourd that had been sawed in half, speechless.
Gu Qinlan was also speechless for a moment, not knowing how to start the conversation.
The two walked on in silence, the atmosphere slightly awkward.
Suddenly, Gu Qinlan slipped.
Zheng Dinglian swiftly reached out and supported her.
Gu Qinlan, still shaken, steadied herself and said softly, "Thank you, Your Highness."
After confirming that her ankle was fine, she tried to continue walking, but Zheng Dinglian held her hand tightly and refused to let go.
He gently supported her and whispered, "Let's go."
Gu Qinlan felt a little embarrassed, but ultimately accepted his kindness.
They are husband and wife. Although they are still strangers to each other, she is willing to accept his hand when he takes the initiative.
So, amidst the falling snowflakes, the couple walked hand in hand through the courtyard, strolling along the quiet path.
Mei Yun, who later learned of Zheng Dinglian's return, rushed over, and the scene before her eyes broke her heart.
Since arriving in the capital, she has felt isolated.
Although she was not neglected, she was placed in the most remote corner and closely watched by several menacing maids.
She tried to ask Madam Zheng for help many times, but was stopped by the maids.
The grievances and helplessness in her heart almost suffocated her.
She gritted her teeth and waited silently, and finally the prince returned.
However, what she witnessed was a heartbreaking scene.
But she quickly regained her spirits.
It turns out that this prince, who is usually as cold as ice, is actually so gentle in private. If she can win his heart, then this tenderness will also belong to her.
Meiyun was full of confidence.
What Gu Qinlan could do, she could do as well! She was even confident that she could do it better than Gu Qinlan!
Zheng Dinglian, skilled in martial arts and with keen hearing and eyesight, quickly discovered Mei Yun's presence.
He didn't even glance at her, but simply asked Gu Qinlan in a low voice, "Why did you settle Miss Mei in your home?"
Gu Qinlan replied, "She resolutely refused to live outside, claiming that she had no one to rely on in the capital and was worried about being bullied. With the New Year approaching, I thought that we didn't lack her share of food, so I let her stay temporarily to prevent anyone from using her to cause trouble for our family in the future."
Gu Qinlan's use of the word "our family" warmed Zheng Dinglian's heart.
In the past, he always fought alone, but now, with her by his side, he is no longer alone. He can devote himself wholeheartedly to his career, while she meticulously manages all the affairs at home. She considers everything for him and discusses problems with him. Similarly, when he is unsure of what to do, he can rely on her wisdom.
He was deeply moved by this feeling of mutual support.
Zheng Dinglian's voice was full of pleasure: "You've thought this through very thoroughly. I'll leave this matter to you."
The couple walked and talked, and soon arrived at the dining room.
As everyone watched them walk hand in hand, they couldn't help but reveal sly smiles.
Although Gu Qinlan was a little shy, she didn't act coy. She let go of Zheng Dinglian's hand in a generous manner and went straight to her usual seat.
Zheng Dinglian followed closely behind and sat down beside her.
The servants began serving the dishes one after another, and the atmosphere at the table gradually became lively.
After the dishes were laid out, Princess Duan smiled kindly and said, "Everyone, please start eating. Get some rest after you finish eating."
Gu Qinlan habitually picked up the serving chopsticks and was about to stand up to serve Zheng Dinglian the dishes.
However, before she could even get up, several more dishes had already been added to her bowl.
Zheng Dinglian picked it up for her.
"Eat quickly, there's no need to tire yourself out."
Gu Qinlan was a little unaccustomed to it. She had worked hard in the Ji family for many years. Whether it was Ji Yinli or the old lady of the Ji family having a meal, she had to serve the dishes.
Over time, this habit became almost an instinct for her.
"The prince has been away fighting for a long time, so it is my duty to serve you food."
Zheng Dinglian responded gently, "I don't feel tired when I fight on the battlefield, so how could a meal make me tired? There are no complicated rules in our home, so you can just enjoy your meal."
Zheng Huiyi raised her eyebrows slightly to the side.
In the past, when his eldest and second sisters-in-law followed the rules, his third brother had never made such remarks.
However, Zheng Huiyi did not expose him. Instead, she went along with his words and said, "Yes, sister-in-law, you've had a hard day too. Sit down and eat."
This chapter is not finished, please click the next page to continue reading!
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
