Chapter 17

Chapter 17 Close to Being Ruined

My daughter’s prophecy proved to be true.

She felt a mix of sadness and fear.

During the night, Zhang Ling remained awake as she stood at the gate, staring in the direction of the Zhang family’s residence a few streets away.

There, flames soared, and distant cries echoed.

“Madam, everything will be alright,” Hu Yue assured, sensing her icy hands and trembling body.

Zhang Ling’s lips turned blue as her body quivered slightly. It took much effort for her to speak. “So close… so close…” The Zhang family’s so close to being ruined.

Luckily, I heard Yuting’s thoughts.

Yuting’s a precious gift from above.

As dawn approached, Zhang Ling, who had kept a rigid stance, finally moved a little.

Hu Yue rushed to support her,

“Is Lord Yang back?” Zhang Ling asked, her face pale and drained.

Hu Yue shook her head. “Lord Yang hasn’t returned all night.”

With Hu Yue’s support, Zhang Ling closed her eyes, pushing down her fear and doubt

She didn’t dare to entertain the thought of Yang Mingrui being involved in this.

“Madam, I’ve gathered some information.

“Last night, the Imperial Guard raided the Zhang family’s residence and discovered a blood–written letter beneath the crooked–neck tree outside your chamber. Master Zhang is now being interrogated while kneeling outside the study, Xu Jia reported hastily, having gathered information overnight.

Xu Jia and Jiang Ning, the two maids, looked anxious.

They noticed a lingering frown on Zhang Ling’s face, but she seemed to have relaxed a little. They thought they had seen wrongly.

Zhang Ling remained silent, her lips pursed.

Throughout the day, she felt uneasy. Since marrying Yang Mingrui, she had gradually lost her independence and relied heavily on him.

She bore his children, tended to his needs, and lost the sharpness of her former self as a gifted lady in the Capital.

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Chapter 17 Close to Being Ruined

She sent for Yang Mingrui, but he hadn’t returned.

She wanted to give him a chance to be honest. Yet, he didn’t even come home.

She remained seated until evening.

The gatekeeper rushed to report, “Madam, members of the Zhao family has arrived.”

Hearing that, Zhang Ling abruptly stood.

The Zhao family had a marriage arrangement with her eldest son, Yang Taojian.

Their visit at this time likely indicated trouble.

Both Zhao and Yang families were esteemed, but the Zhao family excelled in literature, with descendants reaching high positions as officials.

On the other hand, the Yang family focused on martial affairs. Though Yang Mingrui lacked literary talent, his marriage to Zhang Ling had brought some advancement.

But compared to the Zhao family, they still fell short,

“Master Taojian was quite promising back then. They were the ones who suggested the engagement,” Hu Yue remarked as she helped Zhang Ling change, noting her lifted spirits before guiding her out.

Zhang Ling paused. “Bring Yuting along.

Yang Yuting, chubby and joyful at forty days old, brightened up any room with her smile.

Entering the main hall, Zhang Ling faced Madam Zhao, who had been waiting with a stern expression.

On the table lay a tray covered in red cloth.

Zhang Ling hesitated for a moment.

Zhang Ling, it’s been a while. I even missed your baby’s one–month–old celebration. I’m really sorry.” Madam Zhao sighed, a hint of shrewdness in her demeanour.

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