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nChapter 1022: Side Story 2 (2)

nEditor: Dragon Boat Translation

n“I understand,” Hong Suzhi replied, bowing deeply. “Thankyou, Father, for saving my life.”

n“Nonsense!” Lord Hong chuckled. “We’re family. There’s no need for formalities. However, you must be cautious from now on. Never reveal your true identity.”

nMadam Hong chimed in with her advice. “And when you do eventually remarry, make sure you choose someone who makes you happy.”

nHong Suzhi offered a dry laugh. While she held no resentment towards the deceased King Kang, the experience of being his wife had left her utterly exhausted. If possible, the thought of another marriage held little appeal.

nThe couple spent some additional time offering instructions before Third Madam Li sent word that dinner was ready. The three of them then gathered to share a meal.

nAfterward, the time came for the Hongs to depart.

n“Greetings, Father and Mother,” Hong Suzhi bowed respectfully to the Li couple upon her return. For the sake of this charade, she adopted the name Li Lijun.

n“Alright, alright, child.” Third Madam Li smiled warmly, helping her to rise. “Take good care of yourself when you return home. Don’t hesitate to ask if you need anything.”

n“Of course, Mother,” Hong Suzhi replied with a laugh.

nThird Master Li, observing his daughter’s lack of grief over King Kang’s demise, finally sighed in relief. However, a flicker of concern crossed his face.

n“Ahem, Lijun,” he began, dismissing the servants with a wave of his hand. “Do you have any plans for the future?”

n“I want to meet with my two cousins and live on the farm for a while to relax,” Hong Suzhi requested, eager for some peace and quiet.

n“That’s good too. You can pick two maids to follow you,” Third Master Li readily agreed. After such a traumatic event, it was natural for her to need some time to heal.

nIn the evening, Third Master Li called his two sons over and informed them about the situation. He emphasized the importance of secrecy. “If you don’t want to die, keep this matter in your stomach. Do you understand?”

n“Don’t worry, Father, we’re not stupid,” Mr. Li Er, the elder son, assured him. “But Cousin Lijun and little sister really look alike in almost everyway. If they changed their clothes, outsiders might not recognize the difference.”

n“That’s true,” Third Madam Li chimed in. She had been carefully observing Hong Suzhi. “Let’s change her hairstyle later.”

nAfter dinner, Third Madam Li took matters into her own hands. She styled Hong Suzhi’s hair in a way that closely resembled her deceased daughter’s. “This looks very similar,” Third Madam Li declared with a satisfied smile. “Use this hairstyle as much as possible in the future.”

n“I understand,” Hong Suzhi replied, grateful for the woman’s kindness.

nThird Madam Li beamed. “It’s wonderful; my daughter is back,” she whispered, overcome with emotion.

nEarly the next morning, Third Madam Li took Hong Suzhi shopping. They purchased some practical clothes and jewelry, along with two maidservants. Later, they set off for the Li family farm.

nThird Madam Li stayed with Hong Suzhi for three days, ensuring she was adjusting well. Once satisfied, she returned to the main residence.

nHong Suzhi embraced the peace and quiet of farm life. She helped out with the chores, cooked with the other women, and found a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of her recent experiences.

nShe returned to the Li mansion just before the New Year celebrations.

nOn the 15th day of the first lunar month, after dinner, Mr. Li Er came over and extended an invitation. “Little sister,” he said, “the Lantern Festival is especially grand this year. Would you like to go out with us?”

nHong Suzhi hesitated for a moment, a flicker of longing for normalcy crossing her features. “Let’s go,” she finally agreed. “I haven’t seen lanterns in years.”

nWith two maidservants in tow, she joined her brother and his companions for a celebratory outing.

nAs they walked through the bustling streets, Hong Suzhi’s natural talent and grace quickly attracted attention.

nWhen it was time to part ways, one of Mr. Li Er’s classmates couldn’t help but inquire, “Brother Li, has your sister been engaged?”

nMr. Li Er was momentarily taken aback. He scrutinized the young man for a moment before responding with a sly smile, “Do you like my little sister?”

n“Why, is it not okay? Although I’m not as good at studying as you guys, I’m better at business than you guys, right?”

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