Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 2096: Grandmaster Miao Doesn’t Think So

“Grandmaster Miao, you’re overthinking it. I simply find it unfamiliar to have such a person at my side. I have no ulterior motives. Please convey my gratitude to Lord Liu for his kind gesture when you return. Let him know that I am grateful!”

Grandmaster Miao’s expression shifted.

He hadn’t realized he was reading too much into it.

Shao Yunduan wasn’t offering excuses; he genuinely disliked the idea of having such a person in his household.

And his wife would undoubtedly share his sentiment.

How could he bear to see her unhappy because of this?

However, Grandmaster Miao perceived Shao Yunduan’s refusal as a deliberate attempt to distance himself from Prefect Liu, refusing to heed his counsel.

Why else would he reject such a tempting offer?

Wouldn’t he benefit from having such a beautiful and refined woman in his home? Even if he didn’t fancy her, he could have relegated her to the background.

But Prefect Liu hadn’t compelled him to dote on such a concubine.

Grandmaster Miao cast a deep glance at Shao Yunduan, offering a polite smile and a few courteous words. He refrained from further attempts to persuade Shao Yunduan, even halting Constable Li’s attempts to argue.

Hurriedly, as if fleeing from a pursuing monster, Grandmaster Miao departed Anze Province with Constable Li and their entourage.

He was genuinely fearful that Shao Yunduan might turn hostile and detain him. What recourse did he have?

Upon hearing the news, Qiao Xuan teased Shao Yunduan.

“What’s all the fuss about? Everyone seems so concerned about your backyard,” she quipped.

Grandmaster Miao promptly reported to Prefect Liu upon his return: “Shao Yunduan is disloyal! I fear he’s plotting rebellion!”

Initially skeptical, Prefect Liu dismissed the notion with disdain. He remarked that while Anze Province might be sizable, Prefect Shao possessed considerable wealth and capable subordinates.

Yet, Prefect Liu reasoned, Shao Yunduan’s power might extend throughout Anze Province, but it paled in comparison to the broader world.

Was he truly worthy of rebellion?

He was the esteemed Prefect who governed the 11 provinces and counties within Huaixi Province. He even pondered whether he should establish himself as a local overlord. Was Anze Province sufficient for him?

But Grandmaster Miao disagreed.

“If that were the case, his actions wouldn’t make sense. You, Lord, are his immediate superior. How could he dare to refuse your request unless he harbors ulterior motives? If he’s not foolish, then he must have a reason!” Grandmaster Miao remarked.

Prefect Liu nodded in agreement, puzzled. “Indeed. Miss Qingwan is a fine young lady, and your gesture was kind. I can’t fathom why Shao Yunduan declined her.”

Could it be that he couldn’t afford to support Miss Qingwan? Was the Shao Family facing financial difficulties?

It seemed deliberate!

He wasn’t rejecting Miss Qingwan; he was rejecting Prefect Liu’s attempt to ingratiate himself!

Prefect Liu’s expression finally turned serious at this revelation.

Seeing this, Grandmaster Miao delivered the final blow. “Lord, let’s not forget that Shao Zhizhou’s brother-in-law is Jiangnan’s wealthiest man, Zhao Shu. He has a vast fortune but indulges in extravagance. I’ve heard he greatly respects Prefect Shao. Currently, the couple resides in Anze Prefecture City’s intermediate. Shao Zhizhou’s younger brother is the rising star of the Northwest Army, General Shao. He’s adored by the entire Northwest Army, poised to become its new leader.”

“Prefect Shao is not without support!”

With wealth, influence, and amidst such chaotic times, disloyal thoughts would hardly be unexpected.