Chapter 180: The Unpredictability of Human Nature

Translator: 549690339

“Madam, this Madam Zhou clearly has ill intentions. You mustn’t believe her words; otherwise, the baby in your stomach will be worried, and the master will be worried as well,” Grandma Chen said hurriedly when she saw a worried expression on Su Wenyue’s face. She had heard what Zhou Wang had said, and although there were a few credible points, there was also the suspicion that she deliberately wanted to worry the madam. Otherwise, knowing that the madam was pregnant and should not be stressed, why not let Lord Zhou relay the message to their master directly? There was no need to confuse the matter in front of the madam.

Even though Zhou Wang was a deep thinker, in front of old women like Nanny Zhou and Grandma Chen, who were used to seeing inner house struggles, her little schemes couldn’t stay hidden. That’s why Zhou Wang left in a hurry under the stare of Grandma Chen, otherwise, she would have continued to say more.

“Don’t worry, Grandma, I know what Zhou Wang aims to do, and I haven’t taken her words to heart. However, her news may not necessarily be false. Lord Wang has been in his genuine eighth rank position for quite a while and it’s time for a move. It’s normal for him to feel uncomfortable with the husband taking that position, human nature, after all.”

Su Wenyue wouldn’t be disturbed just by a few words from Zhou Wang. However, Lord Wang was indeed a problem; Madam Wang had been domineering in Xinluo Town for so long, not just because of her temperament which others didn’t want to provoke, but also because her mother’s family was not to be trifled with. Madam Wang’s father, Sun Bocheng, was the general magistrate of Yiyang Prefecture, a position that has always been held by someone trusted by the emperor. Although there is internal chaos in the Court now and the magistrate’s power has declined, the status remains.

After the female guests dispersed, the front courtyard was still bustling with activity. The men were drinking and chatting, in high spirits. Han Yu was unable to leave and, worried about Su Wenyue, had sent his servant to inquire about her situation, telling her to rest early without waiting for him.

Su Wenyue had something on her mind that she wanted to discuss with Han Yu, so naturally, she wouldn’t rest early. Having lain on the couch and rested for a while, upon waking up, she didn’t know how much time had passed, but the front courtyard hadn’t quietened down, so she sent a servant to check again.

Meanwhile, as Han Yu was hosting a banquet, Sikong Ling had already received the news.

“This Han Yu really knows how to climb the ranks. In such a short time, relying on opportunism, he has climbed to the seventh rank position. He does have some ability,” Sikong Ling remarked with an indecipherable expression, taking a sip of wine. The man in black stood silently by his side, not speaking. He knew the master wasn’t asking him for a response, nor did he need one.

“How’s her condition? Is she still suffering badly from morning sickness?” Sikong Ling asked with a bit of concern. He had seen Su Wenyue looking quite pale during their last visit to Lingyin Temple. Barely over four months pregnant, her stomach was already so large. Later inquiries confirmed she was carrying twins.

Being naturally petite and dainty, and at an age shortly after coming of age, carrying one child would be hard enough, let alone twins. If her condition became worse, it would be very dangerous indeed. Sikong Ling didn’t care much for the child in Su Wenyue’s womb, but he didn’t want anything to happen to her.

“The Han Family may not be a large, deep residence, but the servants are strict with their words. It took quite an effort for my subordinate to gather some news: Madam Han should be alright now. It is said that she has a good appetite and can eat a lot during the day. Some have noticed that Madam Han’s complexion and energy seem much improved from before,” the report came.

Sikong Yu felt considerably relieved upon hearing this. He didn’t know why, but he was so concerned for a woman with whom he had few dealings.

“Also, Mr. Sun, the general magistrate, has some objections to Han Yu’s recent promotion. He feels Han Yu blocked his son-in-law, Lord Wang’s path. It’s likely he may take some action soon.”

“I understand. You may go now. Keep a close watch below and immediately report any news. Before the child is born, I don’t want any major upheaval affecting her mood,” Sikong Yu was uninterested in whether or not Han Yu would be harmed by others. However, if something happened to Han Yu, Su Wenyue would definitely be affected. With twins on the way already posing a danger, they couldn’t risk anything further.

“Yes.” The man in black knew his master was overly concerned about that woman, but it wasn’t their business to meddle. They just had to execute orders.

Han Yu returned from the front and carried the scent of wine. After freshening up, he came in and saw Su Wenyue reading a book. His brow furrowed, and he snatched the book out of her hand.

“Didn’t I tell you to rest early? Why are you still reading at this late hour? You don’t care about your eyes or your body, do you? You’ve just recovered a bit and already you’re neglecting your health; what am I to do with you!” Han Yu, having consumed alcohol, inevitably sounded a bit harsh.

Su Wenyue knew she was at fault, but it was indeed boring just sitting there doing nothing, so she took Han Yu’s hand and explained.

“Don’t be angry, I’ve already rested a bit just now. I couldn’t sleep anymore, so I picked up a book for a while. You know how much I care for the child in my stomach; how could I be careless? Has the meeting ended out front?” n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Han Yu’s anger eased a bit when he heard Su Wenyue say this. He glanced at Aunt Li standing by for confirmation. His expression relaxed somewhat, and he showed a hint of fatigue as he embraced Su Wenyue.

“Daughter-in-law, how did you feel today, tired? Did those women say nonsense? If they did, don’t take it to heart. They’re just jealous of your husband’s promotion. After all, with my limited experience, it’s natural for many to be disgruntled with me in this position,” Han Yu said, obviously aware of the things Zhou Wang had told Su Wenyue.

“It’s precisely because of this that I’m a little worried. Those sour and bitter words aren’t worth fussing over; I’ve already forgotten them the moment I heard them. What truly worries me is that those people might be scheming against you behind your back. Even if some of them seem to be alright on the surface, who knows what they’re really thinking? The human heart is the most difficult to gauge, and sometimes climbing too fast isn’t good either,” Su Wenyue said, sighing.

Han Yu hadn’t expected his daughter-in-law to think so deeply, even considering other aspects. Indeed, she was different from other women, focusing on the real issues. However, Han Yu didn’t want his daughter-in-law to worry about these matters.

“Daughter-in-law, don’t worry. What kind of man do you think your husband is? Since I have climbed to this position, of course, I have the ability to securely hold it. Even if they try to trip me up behind my back, your husband has the means to cope. You just need to take good care of yourself and the children; don’t worry about these matters.”

“But… did you know all about what Madam Zhou said when she left today? The position you now hold was originally destined by Mr. Sun for his son-in-law, Lord Wang. Others might not speak up, but Mr. Sun is definitely displeased. Even if he doesn’t trip you up behind the scenes, he likely won’t wish you well. Husband, what do you think about this? Perhaps we should approach my father and ask him to think of a solution. Although the Su Family has already divided, according to the rules set by our ancestors, our branch has not entered the Court. But in the face of difficulty, my grandfather and eldest uncle won’t just stand by,” Su Wenyue said.