Chapter 1099: Concealed

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

However, eventually, she severed ties with the Qiao Family, an act considered deeply unfilial.

Qiao Xuan responded, her voice calm yet resolute. “Lady Tian, I believe there is a misunderstanding. Learning requires time, but talent is equally crucial. Take my husband, for instance. His rise to the position of Primus at such a young age is a testament to his dedication and natural aptitude. Similarly, my proficiency in tending to flowers and trees is not something that can be acquired solely through time.”

She emphasized the significance of talent over mere passage of time. She continued, recounting her past experiences. “In the past, I used to sneak out and use the money my mother gave me to purchase books of this nature. Although the content was sparse, I would destroy them after reading, fearful that they might cause trouble. Nevertheless, I gleaned some knowledge. At that time, it was merely for amusement; I never anticipated its practical value.”

Qiao Xuan addressed the topic of gratitude. “Regarding Ms. Tian’s suggestion to express gratitude to Third Madame Qiao, that must surely be a jest. Parents should fulfill their roles as parents, wouldn’t you agree?”

“However, I am genuinely grateful to Third Madame Qiao for breaking off my previous engagement and arranging my marriage to my husband. It is true that misfortunes and fortunes often shape our destinies.”

A bewildered silence fell upon the room as they exchanged uncertain glances.

It was a foolproof plan.

Thanks to the Tian Family, many secrets regarding Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan had been unearthed, including her previous betrothal, which was no longer a secret.

When Qiao Xuan married Shao Yunduan, he was merely a destitute talent from the countryside, while her former fiancé was an educated scholar groomed for the position of County Magistrate. So, was Third Madame Qiao truly acting in her best interests?

It seemed she had been scheming to ruin Qiao Xuan’s life!

To steal someone’s marriage and shatter their entire existence, one could describe her lineal mother as treacherous as a snake.

No one could fault a concubine’s daughter for lacking respect toward such a lineal mother.

Furthermore, Qiao Xuan had married Shao Yunduan after accidentally falling into the water.

But how could a girl fall into the water so easily?

However, these individuals were not easily swayed. They were the esteemed madames of the distinguished noble families, well-versed in the ways of deceit and cunning.

They believed that Third Madame Qiao had orchestrated the incident, intending for the concubine’s daughter to meet her demise in the water.

But to everyone’s surprise, Shao Yunduan had rescued her.

No one dared to speak ill of Third Madame Qiao.

Tian Jingjing, a member of the Tian Family, felt deeply humiliated by Qiao Xuan’s rebuttal, particularly the final sentence. What did it imply? It hinted that although the Tian Family appeared prosperous and esteemed, there might be an underlying source of trouble.

How dare they!

Tian Jingjing sneered, unable to contain her frustration. “So, Madame Shao, it seems you hold great dissatisfaction toward Third Madame Qiao. What has she done to warrant such a decisive severance? Perhaps you’d care to enlighten everyone?”

Tian Jingjing’s mother, Ms. Yuan, was taken aback. She shot her daughter a reproachful glance. “Jingjing!”

Meanwhile, Qiao Xuan had already begun staging her own performance. She sighed, shaking her head and replied, “The past is in the past. What good does it serve to delve into old matters? Although we are estranged, I have no desire to dwell on the past any longer. Ms. Tian is correct. As juniors, we should strive to be reasonable, adhere to decorum, and exhibit kindness. Let us leave certain things behind us.”