The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

Upon hearing what Nanny said, Lu’s expression showed a hint of embarrassment, yet she was unwilling to admit any wrongdoing.

”Can’t she give me some face? We’re all sisters-in-law, how can I face my elder sister-in-law in the future?” Lu wiped the corner of her eye and then smiled bitterly, saying, ”Forget it, even if she doesn’t slap my face, I’m still lower than them in status now. They’re so smug, one is an official’s wife with many children and distinguished relatives by marriage. Another has talented twins, the elder being a small officer, the younger is the Crown Prince’s Study Companion, with limitless prospects, and even the matches they consider are from eminent families. How can I, without any family of my own, compete?”

This matter has been brought up again.

Words like these have been frequent since the two brothers from the First and Second Houses passed the scholar exams, basking in their glory. Madam Lu has never been short of jealousy and envy, and the more envious she is, the more she presses Young Master to make progress.

Alas, she hasn’t given up; seeing her cousins shine so brightly, how could Lu tolerate her only legitimate son being mediocre?

Nanny was momentarily at a loss on how to comfort her. People fear comparisons the most; the more distinct the difference, the harder it is to maintain peace of mind. The more you think, the more crooked your thoughts become.

”Madam, comparing oneself to others only leads to despair. Shouldn’t we focus on what we have rather than what others possess? The more you compare, the harder it is to attain peace of mind.”

Lu could only manage a bitter smile; she didn’t want to compare, but how could she cultivate what’s called a peace of mind?

Should she blame fate for being unfavorable, for not marrying an adored legitimate son?

Lu recalled the past, though life was tough back in Shanxi, lacking the splendor of the capital. Yet, those years were arguably the most comforting she had in her life, with complete family harmony.

After returning to the capital, everything changed.

For a moment, Lu felt regret; had she known, would staying in Shanxi have been more comforting than the present upheaval?

Nanny, seeing her in a daze, dared not interrupt, only sighing inwardly.

If Madam herself cannot figure it out, no amount of advice will work.

...

Nanny Gong served Song Ci the herbal remedy and said teasingly, ”You just embarrassed Third Madam in front of the First and Second Madams. She might complain, thinking you’re biased.”

Song Ci, savoring a candied fruit, retorted, ”No, how have I embarrassed her?”

”You mentioned Young Master’s daily life, somewhat hinting to not mistreat the stepchildren.”

”I’m wrongly accused!” Song Ci swallowed the candy and said, ”I was merely concerned for the children. Can’t you see Zhou’er is unhappy? I’m afraid she’ll drive the child into depression.”

Before Nanny Gong could reply, she snorted, ”So what if I did hint at her? I’m her mother-in-law; should I fear her grumbling or her dissatisfaction?”

”True, true, you’re an assertive mother-in-law.”

”Naturally. I dare say there are few as enlightened and transparent as me in the whole capital.” Song Ci snorted, ”If I truly intended to embarrass her, she’d be in tears just about making her follow the rules. Consider how much advice I’ve shared privately, and if she still blames me, then she’s beyond help, let things be, it’s her life.”

Nanny Gong said teasingly, ”You talk like that, but isn’t it for the sake of Fourth Young Master and his siblings?”

The young grandchildren were Song Ci’s weakness.

Song Ci sighed, ”I want them to become my soft spot because while I’m alive, who else would indulge them? Alas, people cause themselves trouble when they can’t appreciate what they have.”