Chapter 604 - Chapter 604: Chapter 610 (1/2)
Chapter 604: Chapter 610
“Everyone knows the principle, but it’s not so easy to put it into action. Nevertheless, it doesn’t matter, for I have my own desires, even if…”
Chen Li didn’t finish her sentence, but Su Wenyue understood her meaning and didn’t say anything more. Even knowing what Chen Li’s fate had been in her previous life, Chen Li still chose that path. Their friendship was only so deep, and since Chen Li was fixated on those things, any persuasion from her would have been futile.
Chen Li was nonetheless grateful for Su Wenyue’s few caring reminders. She wasn’t an ungrateful person, nor was she oblivious to the logic in Su Wenyue’s words. However, being deeply entangled, what could she do other than continue on? Not to mention that she had developed feelings for Liu Xiu; even if that were not the case, she was already aboard this ship with no turning back. The situation was irreversible. Living in this era, just because she was a woman, life was already difficult, and her behavior was at odds with the cultural norms. Although these people outwardly treated her with respect, internally, they likely harbored nothing but fear, contempt, and dislike for her. Even if they didn’t show it, Chen Li could sense it. Yet, Su Wenyue’s words seemed to come from a place of sincerity, making them a rare treasure in Chen Li’s heart.
Su Wenyue had no idea that her casual reminder would elicit gratitude from Chen Li, a serendipitous gain. After all, even though Chen Li would eventually fall from grace, becoming a scapegoat, she had once been a formidable figure. In the imperial harem, even Yin Lihua had to avoid her sharpness.
The main character had arrived. The City Lord’s wife, supporting the Madam, entered enthusiastically, greeting Yin Lihua, Su Wenyue, and the others with warm hospitality.
As the only daughter of the City Lord Mansion, Liu Xinru followed behind her mother, dressed splendidly, emanating the elegance of a young lady from a noble family, utterly ignoring the presence of Yin Lihua and Chen Li.
Liu Xinru had her own considerations. Since she held intentions toward Liu Xiu, being excessively accommodating or yielding in her demeanor towards Yin Lihua, Liu Xiu’s wife, would make others believe she was showing weakness. This was not a perception she was willing to allow.
Although Liu Xinru adored Liu Xiu and was optimistic about his future, as the legitimate daughter of the City Lord Mansion, she wouldn’t demean herself to become a mere concubine. Moreover, Liu Xiu was already married, so her conflict with Yin Lihua was irreconcilable. There was no need to be overly friendly with Yin Lihua from the start.
Liu Xinru’s attitude was bolstered by the support of Liu Wenyong, who valued Liu Xiu and believed he had potential. He wanted to win Liu Xiu over, and marriage was the most effective way to do so. Otherwise, Liu Xinru wouldn’t have indulged her feelings for Liu Xiu, knowing he had a wife.
Liu Xinru was cold towards Yin Lihua but not towards Su Wenyue. As the wife of Han Yu, who was a valued subordinate of Liu Xiu, akin to his right-hand man, Liu Xinru intended to win her over. Even if she couldn’t get Su Wenyue on her side, the least she could do was not offend Han Yu’s beloved wife.
“I have long heard of Madam Han’s unparalleled beauty and virtuous character. Today, seeing you in person, you indeed stand out from the ordinary,” Liu Xinru said with a smile, the intention to ingratiate herself quite apparent. The majority of the ladies present, wanting to please the City Lord’s wife, complimented Liu Xinru constantly, heaping praises and flatteries upon Su Wenyue wave after wave.