Chapter 37 Kneeling
Shen Jizhao did not receive a reply from Jiang Shuifu. A figure slowly walked into the East Palace. This figure was over forty years old but very tall and straight. She deliberately blocked most of his view, so that he could no longer see her.
Jiang Sheng bowed to him, his words respectful but his demeanor carrying a hint of arrogance and self-satisfaction.
“Your Highness, I once said that my daughter is someone who can take things in stride. She may have made mistakes at the beginning or in the process, but she will never make mistakes in the end. Today, I have come to take my daughter home. In the past, my daughter loved it when I would pick her up from her playtime. Although she didn’t say it, I knew that she lost her mother at a young age and is inherently somewhat afraid. Therefore, she especially loves being pampered and loved, and the feeling of being cherished. When she fell in love with you at first sight, I told her that after she married you, no one would pick her up from her playtime or comfort her. But she still wouldn’t turn back until she hit a brick wall. No matter how I punished her, it was no use.”
Shen Jizhao remained silent, showing no expression whatsoever.
If she was someone who needed to be pampered so much, why did she marry him? And why did she never show it after marrying him, instead always pretending to be a virtuous and gentle crown princess?
It was because of him! All the budding love in a young girl's heart was given to him!
The blood in his palm flowed endlessly, covering the ground. Just as it was about to reach Jiang Sheng's toes, he suddenly moved his foot away, not wanting to get a single drop on it.
This action was exactly the same as Jiang Shuifu's; they both disliked him just as much.
Fortunately, the past is gone like smoke, and Jiang Sheng breathed a sigh of relief:
“But my daughter has the right to make mistakes. This old minister will always wait for her and protect her. For three years, His Highness the Crown Prince has never called this old minister ‘father-in-law.’ This old minister knows he is not worthy of such a title and has never even dreamed of it. Therefore, this day is not surprising at all. This old minister has finally waited for it!”
After speaking, a smile slowly appeared on Jiang Sheng's lips, his eyes full of light. He turned and walked towards Jiang Shufu, naturally and affectionately taking the bundle from Jiang Shufu's hands, "Fu'er, come home with your father!"
Jiang Shuifu smiled knowingly, her eyes filled with the warmth of returning home and longing for the future. No matter what, her father was always the best to her.
She suddenly felt as if she had returned to her childhood, when she was still the little girl who loved to cuddle with her father.
She rushed up and took his arm, which was flabby and loose from years of hardship:
"Father, I'm sorry I'm late. I wanted to eat dumplings. Tonight is New Year's Eve, a night for family reunion."
Jiang Sheng nodded, his expression full of affection:
"Father will cook for Jiaojiao, and she can eat as much as she wants! With Jiaojiao back, the New Year in our Jiang family is truly a New Year. Father will be very happy this year!"
Upon hearing this, Jiang Shuifu's eyes instantly welled up with tears. She did not cry in the face of the emperor and empress's oppression, nor did she yield to Shen Jizhao's domineering and forceful nature.
However, she failed to fulfill her duty to her father, the person who cared for her most in the world.
For the past few years, he could only watch helplessly as she fawned over others in the cold palace, desperately seeking affection that she could never obtain, while the man who gave her love and affection, who was within her reach, had been a lonely figure for far too long.
After a long silence, tears—tears that in the Eastern Palace meant being unruly, pretentious, and annoying—flowed again. She shook her head, her voice slightly choked with emotion:
"It's not Daddy, it's not you who cooked it, it's Jiaojiao who cooked it, Jiaojiao cooked it for Daddy, and Jiaojiao wishes Daddy good health, peace, and joy year after year!"
Jiang Sheng was overjoyed, but also heartbroken. How had his darling become so sensible? She could even cook!
But why does she have to be sensible? He would rather she were still that carefree little girl she used to be, and he would protect her for the rest of his life.
He patted her obedient head, feeling extremely tender towards her.
The peach was moved by this scene and felt a great sense of pride. She could no longer hold back and turned around to glare fiercely at Shen Jizhao.
Hmph, that arrogant bastard has finally been abandoned.
She deliberately changed her form of address, and without turning her head, swaggered away with Jiang Shuifu and the others.
"Miss, let's go! We're never coming back!"
Miss!
He hadn't heard those two words in a very, very long time!
Yes, she is no longer the Crown Princess; she has returned to being Jiang Shuifu, the most beloved only daughter of the Jiang family.
There was no further connection between them.
Shen Jizhao stood there alone, watching their joy and excitement. He could hear their laughter and words of comfort from time to time. He was now a complete outsider.
Her words, expressions, and demeanor had nothing to do with him.
His gaze remained fixed on her, on his former crown princess, until her figure disappeared around the last corner from his sight.
Their voices faded away, and the last thing he heard was, "Miss has finally come to her senses!"
It turns out that, in the beginning, she was the only one who had any hope for this marriage.
The world thought she was not good enough for him, he didn't like her, and even everyone around her knew it wouldn't last, but she stubbornly persisted for three years.
He had already persevered for three years, so why give up halfway? If it were him, he wouldn't. He despises people who give up easily, and he wouldn't care about people who give up on him easily either.
After a long while, Shen Jizhao turned around and went back to his study.
That night, the study was brightly lit by candlelight, and he continued to perform his duties as crown prince, as if nothing had ever happened.
After returning home, Jiang Shuifu kept her word and cooked a large pot of wontons and stir-fried many other dishes. Jiang Sheng was not idle either, as he couldn't bear to see his beloved Jiaojiao working so hard, so he joined in the cooking. The atmosphere was harmonious and joyful, and the entire Jiang residence became much more vibrant.
After finishing her meal, she chatted with Jiang Sheng for a long time, as if she wanted to tell her closest father about her life over the past few years, but she only said the nice things.
As Jiang Sheng listened, she kept drinking, and the more cheerful she looked, the more it proved how wronged she was.
He only reported good news and never bad news; his beloved daughter truly broke his heart.
As midnight arrived, the past five years had finally come to an end. Every day from now on would be brand new. Jiang Sheng raised his wine cup and said in blessing, "Jiaojiao, Daddy welcomes you home!"
Jiang Shuifu smiled, but felt uneasy inside: "Father, you're getting old. I'll support you from now on!"
As the New Year approached, the Emperor, still merciful, remembered Jiang Shuifu's contributions and allowed her to leave on the fifth day of the New Year.
These past few days, she hasn't gone anywhere, staying with her father the whole time. This parting will last for three years.
The price of this marriage was too high. Three years after three years, her father was without her for six whole years. The person she owed the most was him.
However, she will never waste a single moment on people who are not worth it.
Although Jiang Shuifu didn't go out, the news of her divorce had already spread like wildfire and everyone knew about it; people were talking about it everywhere.
Without exception, she was once again thrust into the spotlight.
Surprisingly, she didn't hear any criticism or condemnation of her. Or rather, they had learned their lesson and knew to point fingers at her behind her back and secretly curse her for being ungrateful.
Besides this, there was another matter that caused a great deal of discussion among the people: Shen Jizhao's wedding date was set for the ninth day of the first lunar month, which meant that he had just divorced and was about to welcome his new wife into the palace.
In the past few days, the Tang family and the He family have been engaged in various open and covert struggles, both wanting the position of Crown Princess. This opportunity is too good. They thought they would have to wait a few more years, but who knew that a pie would suddenly fall into their laps.
Therefore, in the past few days, Shen Jizhao has either unexpectedly run into Tang Shan'er or mistakenly heard He Rushuang playing the zither and singing.
He made no comment, showed no favoritism, and simply let them fight it out.
Jiang Shuifu overheard the story of his two concubines vying for attention and was very happy to have some peace and quiet. Thanks to him, people's attention was diverted.
On the last day, she met up with her best friend and played to her heart's content, including pitch-pot, horseback riding, and cricket fighting.
The day of departure arrived quickly.
Her destination was Su Yang, where her maternal grandfather lived.
Before she left, Jiang Sheng held her hand and gave her many instructions. He told her to wear more clothes and not to focus on looking good, and to eat less oily food because he was worried she might not be able to adapt to the new environment on the road.
Jiang Shuifu agreed to everything, "Father, you should also take care of your health and not come home too late. Take good care of yourself, or I won't stand for it if you don't gain ten pounds when Jiaojiao comes back!"
Jiang Sheng laughed loudly, "Alright, Jiaojiao, go back. Your maternal grandparents miss you too, and your father will visit you often. It's only three years, it will pass quickly. When that time comes, your father will resign from his official post and take you to travel all over the mountains and rivers."
Jiang Shuifu quickly said seriously, "Father, please don't do this. Father has things he wants to do. Jiaojiao has grown up and doesn't need Father to sacrifice himself to fulfill my wishes. I'm not at ease if you do this. Besides, Jiaojiao said she wants to be your support, so just wait for me obediently. When the time comes, I'll take you to enjoy a life of luxury!"
Jiang Sheng was deeply moved, and his eyes involuntarily welled up with tears.
At this moment, a large number of people suddenly appeared in front of the Jiang residence, which had been quiet.
The people naturally knew the conditions of the former crown princess's divorce, and now many people went to watch. She was the first woman to dare to divorce the royal family, and while they despised her, they also became very curious about her.
Although the people were much more restrained and dared not criticize Jiang Shuifu to her face, after all, her powerful father was right in front of them.
Yet, faint, unpleasant sounds still emerged, similar to:
"Shameless! How dare you even think about divorce!"
"Get out of here! Get out of the capital! You're a disgrace!"
"If this were my daughter, I'd drown her in a pig cage!"
Such comments kept coming in, and Jiang Shuifu was used to them, but being used to them didn't mean she had to keep enduring them. However, at this critical juncture, she had no choice but to endure them.
This is exactly what the emperor wanted: all the blame should be placed on her alone, because she had invited it upon herself.
But Jiang Sheng couldn't help himself and was about to reprimand them and arrest a few as an example when a powerful and authoritative voice reached the ears of everyone present:
"Who dares!"
The crowd that had just surrounded the Jiang residence immediately and spontaneously made way for them.
A figure slowly emerged from the center of the road, wearing black and gold jade brocade boots with a unicorn design. Every step he took exuded an unapproachable aura, as if stepping on the hearts of everyone present. If anyone displeased him, their life would be shattered to pieces.
Looking further up, the dark brocade robe with its lotus flower pattern was so bright that one dared not look directly at it, exuding a unique aura of authority.
The newcomer wore a white jade crown with a mythical beast playing with a pearl, and all his hair was tied up. He looked to be in excellent health and showed no signs of sadness or bad mood.
Jiang Shuifu frowned. Why was Shen Jizhao here? Did he think the "farewell" he gave her wasn't big enough?
She had nothing to say to him, so she patted Jiang Sheng's hand and said, "Father, don't be angry. Jiaojiao is leaving now. You must take good care of yourself."
This was a plea for Jiang Sheng not to get angry. His situation was already difficult, and if he didn't restrain himself, things might get out of hand.
Seeing this, Jiang Sheng had no choice but to stop and bow to Shen Jizhao.
Shen Jizhao declined their formalities, a faint smile playing on his lips, but it was a smile devoid of any genuine joy.
"I'd like to see whose mouth they don't want today, so I can cut it open and drown them in a pig cage!"
Upon hearing his threat, the people dared not continue, bowing their heads low and becoming like cowards.
"Yes, His Highness hates gossipy people the most. When I first came back, I was also greatly troubled by them. Fortunately, His Highness stood up for me. Don't worry, Jiang Nu Niang, His Highness is kind and will not let them speak ill of the royal family like this!"
She was so jealous that she wanted to tell her clearly that Shen Jizhao was only speaking up for her to protect the royal family, and it had nothing to do with her, the former crown princess.
Jiang Shuifu raised her eyes, and sure enough, it was He Rushuang. Was she here to assert her dominance? What a waste of her time!
"Miss Jiang, are you really leaving? Are you really not going to be the Crown Princess anymore?"
This time it was Tang Shan'er who spoke. She looked miserable, her lips were pursed, and she didn't want to enter the Eastern Palace at all. She was so tired these past few days, having to compete for favor every day.
If Jiang Shuifu doesn't become the Crown Princess, what will happen if He Rushuang does? She's so hypocritical; what if she locks her up and beats her when the Crown Prince isn't around?
She still prefers Jiang Shuifu to be the Crown Princess.
Upon hearing this, He Rushuang gave Tang Shan'er a slightly sharp look. What a fool she is! What if she regrets it?
Shen Jizhao's gaze also secretly shifted to her, his thumb unconsciously rubbing the web of his hand, casual and unrestrained, but the pressure of his thumb was getting deeper and deeper.
Jiang Shuifu smiled helplessly: "The roasted rabbit at the East Palace should be delicious. You can try it, Consort."
Tang Shan'er's face turned even more bitter, while He Rushuang remained expressionless. Who was Shen Jizhao? If he were to come back, he would be the first to disagree!
Yes, Shen Jizhao was very arrogant. He said disdainfully, "Don't misunderstand, I just happened to be there."
How could Jiang Shuifu misunderstand? Did she really think that he still had feelings for her and couldn't bear to part with her?
ridiculous.
Today's scene clearly shows that he and his concubines are cultivating their relationship.
The time had come, and she had to leave. After hugging her father, she got into the carriage, but Shen Jizhao wouldn't leave. Considering his status and her father who remained in the capital, she still said goodbye to him.
"Congratulations, Your Highness, on finding your perfect match. Your wedding day is just around the corner. I wish you a harmonious and blissful marriage."
This is true; her greatest wish is for him to have a son soon, so that she can return to see her father.
Shen Jizhao didn't answer, his expression as indifferent as ever, making one want to punch him and tell him to stop pretending.
She walked away gradually, reluctant to leave her father. She lifted the curtain and looked at the Jiang residence from afar. Her father told her to hurry up and not to worry about her. She only sat back down when they were about to leave the city.
However, Shen Jizhao's voice continued unabated. From the moment she boarded the carriage until now, he had been talking to his two concubines. Now that she had closed her eyes to rest, his words were clearly audible to her:
"I have heard of a place with beautiful mountains and rivers, and my relatives live there. I will go there soon."
"Ru Shuang is going too..."
Finally, Jiang Shuifu left the capital. Shen Jizhao's gaze gradually returned, and he lost interest. He immediately abandoned the two of them and headed back home.
.
After two months apart, Jiang Shuifu finally arrived in Suyang.
Suyang is a wonderful place. It's just the beginning of spring, and the city is full of spring colors that are hard to look away from. The flowers, grass, and fruits on the trees all seem to be smiling.
They rushed to their maternal grandfather Jiang's house without stopping.
The Jiang family received news early on that Jiang Shuifu was coming back, and they knew that she would arrive today.
When she arrived at the Jiang residence, there was no one outside the gate, and no one came to greet her.
When she usually comes back, her whole family comes to welcome her back.
She was a little confused. Along the way, she had heard many stories of divorced women being rejected when they returned to their parents' home. So, did her maternal grandfather not welcome her?
She would never think that way! Her maternal grandfather treated her very well, and her maternal grandmother liked her very much too!
She knocked on the door, but no one answered. Undeterred, she continued knocking. After a long time, the person inside probably got annoyed and opened the door a crack, peeking out a few heads.
"Sister, sister, you're back!"
It's Tiger Brother, Little Sister Bao, and Bean Sister!
"We miss you so much! But you should go away and hide for a while, don't come back yet!"
Before Jiang Shuifu could ask any further questions, a stern and angry voice boomed down: "Kneel down!"
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Author's Note: Things will stabilize in a couple of days, and the update frequency will return to normal. I've been moving these past few days, so sorry about that. Thank you for your patience.
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