Today is the day when Lady Hou can finally hold her head high.
Early in the morning, she dressed herself up smartly, which boosted her spirits considerably.
Two days ago, she received many invitations to the banquet. Most of the guests were coming to the Marquis's residence, so the Chi family's place was naturally deserted.
A smug glint flashed in Lady Hou's eyes. So what if Chi Yan rose through the ranks quickly? There are plenty of people who can't stand him. He has offended all the aristocratic families. Who would give him face now?
Once today is over, the second wife will become a laughing stock in the entire capital!
Lady Hou curled her red lips into a smile and asked slowly, "How is that wretched woman?"
The old woman knew who she was talking about and answered carefully, "Aunt Qiu is still ill and hasn't been seen going out today."
A cold glint flashed in Lady Hou's eyes: "She always claims to be sick when asked to do something. In that case, she doesn't need to go out today!"
She was well aware of Aunt Qiu's thoughts, but she felt that this matter was thankless and difficult to handle. If she did it well, there would be no reward, and if she did it poorly, she would get into trouble. She didn't want to take the blame herself.
She made an excuse that she was sick, but the banquet was imminent, so how could they force her to do it despite her illness?
However, this was exactly what Lady Hou wanted. She felt that her health had recovered a lot recently, and it was time to take back control of the household.
Otherwise, how could a noble family like Marquis's mansion allow a concubine to take charge of the overall situation?
Since Qiu Shi took over the household, she has increasingly disregarded her as the mistress of the house. It's time to let her know who the master of the Marquis's mansion is!
She inevitably felt powerless to do everything she could on her own, so this time she specially asked Chi Yue to assist her. With her daughter's wedding approaching, it was time for her to learn how to manage the household.
...
Aunt Qiu, who was feigning illness, nestled on the couch, squinting her eyes contentedly.
The maidservant, however, was somewhat worried: "Madam, if we push this matter out, won't Madam be unhappy?"
Aunt Qiu lifted her eyelids and glanced at her sideways: "Do you think that if I handle this matter perfectly, Madam will treat me differently?"
Of course not, on the contrary, they might even feel that they stole her thunder!
A hint of hesitation flashed in the maid's eyes: "But we've finally gained control of the household, what if Madam intends to take this opportunity to take it back..."
Aunt Qiu's face darkened. Although she was smiling, her smile was somewhat cold: "Of course I won't let her have her way so easily."
As she thought of something, her eyes crinkled slightly. "Madam entrusted the kitchen to the Third Miss, but as you know, our Third Miss is always pampered. The kitchen is a dirty and messy place, how much care can she possibly give?"
——
"Madam, the guests have all arrived."
Lady Hou's smile never faded as she watched the endless stream of guests.
The guests came forward to greet them, saying flattering things. The old lady smiled warmly and invited them inside.
Lady Hou glanced at the person beside her: "What's the situation over there?"
The servant was very perceptive and said in a fawning tone, "I heard that not many people have come to visit. They're probably standing at the door eagerly waiting right now!"
A smug smile played on her lips, and the Lady Hou's eyes gleamed with disdain: "I've said it before, outside the Hou Mansion, their second branch is nothing! Alright, go inside and greet the guests, you're in for a busy day!"
However, not long after, Lady Hou vaguely sensed that something was amiss.
During the women's gathering, the expressions of the ladies were subtle. Her heart sank, but she stepped forward without showing any emotion and asked, "Why are you all standing there in a daze? Have some tea! I was so busy just now that I'm finally catching my breath. Please forgive me if I have been uncooperative."
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
