PUGPF – Chapter 740

Chapter 740: Demonstration

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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Taking his hand, Lian Fangzhou smiled softly. “I will just have Luo Guang take me over. You are too busy! Don’t make people laugh, Zhu Yuying is not a three-headed, six-armed monster, she can’t eat me so why should I be afraid of her? Since she is determined to cause trouble for me, I can avoid it this time but what about next time?”

Li Fu felt a little guilty and pulled her into a hug, saying softly: “I’m sorry…”

Lian Fangzhou’s eyes softened and her lips curled into a smile. “I think it’s a bit exciting! But you are determined to ruin my fun!”

Hearing her, Li fu started to laugh. He stood up and smiled. “Alright, let Luo Guang take you over! Remember, if anything goes wrong, just leave! I want you to be safe.”

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Humming in agreement, Lian Fangzhou took Chun Xing and Hony Yu and went out.

Luo Guang drove the carriage while four of Li Fu’s soldiers dressed as servants followed behind on horseback. They left the city and arrived at the Zhu family’s courtyard in just half an hour.

Hidden between patches of slender bamboo, a tall green brick wall could be seen in the distance, revealing several dark highly arched roof ridges among the green trees.

The courtyard door was opened wide and there was a steward posted there, checking invitations. He greeted them and had someone step forward to lead Lian Fangzhou and her servants inside.

Two maids led Lian Fangzhou, Chun Xing, and Hong Yu to the garden where the banquet was being held while a servant took Luo Guang and the soldiers to rest elsewhere.

Luo Guang glanced at Lian Fangzhou, who nodded slightly and smiled.

Passing through the corridors, they bypassed a piece of rockery and through a small flower garden. You could see a pavilion in front that was transparent on all sides, nestled among the flowers and trees. Maids dressed in red and green uniforms darted back and forth while many young girls dressed in luxurious clothing were talking and laughing in delicate voices.

Lian Fangzhou’s eyes flashed and she looked carefully.

Unexpectedly, the two maids suddenly stopped. One smiled at Lian Fangzhou and said: “The ladies are just in front, Madam Li. Please go in directly! This slave still needs to greet other guests at the door, so I won’t lead Madam Li over.”

After saying this, the two maids started to leave without waiting for Lian Fangzhou to say anything.

Lian Fangzhou’s eyes narrowed. Quickly blocking the maids, she smiled and said: “Is this how the Zhu family treats their guests? Leading them half way and then ignoring them? In this case, let’s go back! I suddenly remembered that I have something urgent to deal with at home, so I will go first.” Saying this, she really turned around and headed back.

Chun Xing and Hong Yu naturally agreed and followed her.

The two maids were stunned for a moment. They shared a look of panic and before they knew it, Lian Fangzhou had already walked several steps away.

They quickly rushed to stop her and the maid who had spoken earlier lightly slapped her own mouth with a smile: “Madam Li, this slave deserves to be punished! I should not have neglected Madam Li! Madam, you must not leave or the miss will blame this slave!”

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Lian Fangzhou raised an eyebrow, expressionless and silent.

The two maids became even more anxious. They looked at each other and then knelt down, begging: “Madam Li, please don’t bother with us stupid slaves! Please spare us!”

They were just following orders.

Although their behavior was rude, it was not worthy of death. She had frightened them just now so she raised a hand and smiled. “Get up quickly. Since we are already here, there is no harm in sitting down for a little while.”

As if they were being pardoned, the two maids immediately smiled and kowtowed her in thanks. They didn’t dare to show the slightest sign of making things difficult for her and led Lian Fangzhou and her maids over honestly.

Blocked by flowers and trees, the people on the other side of the pavilion could not see what was happening over here.

When Lian Fangzhou and her maids arrived, the head maid, who was waiting at the pavilion to welcome guests. After the two maids handed her over, she stepped forward to greet Lian Fangzhou and announced her with a smile.

There were about seven or eight young ladies all looking her way and Lian Fangzhou raised her eyes to glance at them. Several of them were familiar faces from Prince Li’s boat but the most familiar was Li Wanrou.

Today, Li Wanrou was wearing pink butterfly colored brocade pants with a flower trim, an apricot colored dress, and a red and gold eight-treasure hairpin inlaid with pearls as big as eyes. Combined with her ruby and sapphire necklace, she looked extremely rich. She was standing next to Zhu Yuying and smiling, looking very close with her.

Lian Fangzhou took this all in at a glance. When she looked over, Li Wanrou happened to glance up and their eyes met. Immediately, Li Wanrou curled her lip with disdain and snorted, looking away.

So that vulgar woman really was here too! She would just wait and see how she made a fool of herself later, hopefully she could handle it!

Zhu Yuying was wearing an apricot red slant-breast dress embroidered with chrysanthemum buds and a light colored pleated skirt embroidered with chrysanthemum petals. Her hairpin was dotted with cordyceps, which made her look very lively.

The ones standing closest to her were Li Wanrou, Zhu Yuying’s cousins, and the daughter of the Chief Transport Secretary, Liu Jiahe.

“Sister Lian is finally here, we were just talking about you! Hehe, please come in!” There was a smile on Zhu Yuying’s pretty face and her almond eyes were bright as she came forward.

Because of Lian Fangzhou’s background, everyone immediately looked at her and they all stepped forward to greet her with a smile.

Looking shy, Lian Fangzhou smiled sheepishly: “I was worried that I would make you all laugh because I was late!” After everyone laughed, she smiled at Li Wanrou and said: “Hello, Sister Wanrou!”

Li Wanrou nodded and called: “Third Sister-in-law.” Then she turned around to flatter Zhu Yuying.

A new wave of guests arrived and Zhu Yuying smiled. “Sister Lian, please help yourself. I’m going to greet the others. Sister Zhang, could you please help me look after Sister Lian?” Saying this, she entrusted Lian Fangzhou to another young woman next to her who was about the same age as Lian Fangzhou and was wearing a rose-red shirt and skirt.

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The girl snorted vaguely and raised her chin proudly. “I am also a guest, I’m afraid that I can’t take care of you.” Saying this, she turned around and walked away to talk to someone else.

Everyone was watching this. Some of their eyes were gloating at her misfortune, some were waiting to watch the show, some were joking, and a few were sympathetic. All of these expressions were obvious.

PUGPF – Chapter 739

Chapter 739: No borrowing

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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The mother and daughter chatted while they waited for Nanny Zhou to come back.

The more she thought about it, the more impatient Li Wanrou became. Worried, she said: “Mom, what should we do if that country woman refuses to let us borrow it? Where has she seen such good things before, how can she be willing to let them go?”

Her mother said: “This is a life-long opportunity for you, how could she dare not to give it? It’s just a few pieces of jewelry! Hmph, if she refuses, it would be too stingy! Don’t worry, if Nanny Zhou can’t convince her, I will go there myself!”

Relieved, Li Wanrou smiled. “Thank you, mother!”

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As soon as Nanny Zhou was announced, Li Wanrou couldn’t wait for her to get inside and was greedily staring at her hands. “Where are they? Where is the jewelry?”

Nanny Zhou was so surprised that she forgot to salute, only stammering: “She, she didn’t lend them. The young madam said—”

“What did you say!” Li Wanrou jumped up angrily. Looking at her mother, she whined: “Do you hear that? She refused to lend them! That damn ignorant village woman!”

Second Madam’s expression was also dark. Coldly, she asked: “Did you make everything clear? Didn’t I tell you that this banquet is important to Wanrou’s future? Isn’t it good for her if her sister-in-law marries well? Did you make it clear? It’s just borrowing, why is she so stingy!”

Li Wanrou also stared at Nanny Zhou, her eyes almost boring a hole in her body.

Nanny Zhou trembled and quickly said: “Madam, Miss, the third young madam said that she had also received an invitation from Miss Zhu and was going to the banquet in a few days, so she was planning on wearing this jewelry herself—”

“What!”

“What did you say?!”

The mother and daughter shouted in unison, sharing a look.

“That’s impossible!” Li Wanrou screamed. “Who is she?! She’s just a vulgar woman from the countryside! What kind of identity is Miss Zhu, how could she be invited? You must have been deceived by her!”

Second Madam glanced at her daughter but her expression was a little uncertain.

Miss Zhu suddenly invited her daughter and then Lian Fangzhou?

Seeing that Li Wanrou was still demanding answers from Nanny Zhou, she sighed and stopped her. “Okay, Wanrou. Don’t blame Nanny Zhou, she likely hasn’t been fooled. No matter how stupid that woman is, she wouldn’t lie about this.”

“Mom! Are you really speaking for her?” Li Wanrou stomped her foot angrily.

“Why would mother speak for her?” Second Madam pulled her daughter to sit down and hugged her. Looking at Nanny Zhou she said: “You go out first!”

Relieved, Nanny Zhou quickly left.

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Second Madam’s eyes flashed. Sneering, she said: “Wanrou, do you still remember those rumors from a few years ago?”

“Rumors? What rumors?” Li Wanrou did not expect her mother to change the subject so abruptly and was both confused and annoyed. She only cared about the banquet, why would she care about old rumors?

“You!” Second Madam sighed softly. “What else could it be? Wasn’t there a rumor between Sixth Miss Zhu and your third brother?”

Li Wanrou looked startled, realizing what she meant. “That’s what you were talking about? Oh, that was so long ago, why are you bringing it up now?”

“Silly girl! If you think about it carefully, why would Miss Zhu suddenly invite you over and then Lian Fangzhou? Back then, she wholeheartedly admired your third brother and even wanted to marry him.”

“But Third Brother married Lian Fangzhou!” Li Wanrou’s eyes lit up, finally understand. But…

“But what does mom mean by telling me this? Mom, I don’t have any good jewelry, what will I wear to the banquet? I don’t want others to look down on me!” Li Wanrou whined again.

No matter how much Second Madam felt sorry for her daughter, she had to admit that her daughter could be a little stupid. She could only say patiently: “Think about it, a peasant woman married your third brother, how could Miss Zhu be reconciled? If I guess correctly, Miss Zhu invited you because she wants to make friends with you. This way, you can say some good things about her to your third brother and she will have the opportunity to make a fool of Lian Fangzhou!”

Thinking about it, Li Wanrou clapped her hands with a smile. “Yes, this must be the case! Otherwise, why would Miss Zhu invite someone like Lian Fangzhou?”

The second madam hummed. “So Miss Zhu will definitely try to get close to you. Wanrou, you must seize this opportunity to make a good friend of Miss Zhu. If she makes things difficult for Lian Fangzhou, remember to stand back and don’t talk to her too much, okay?”

Second Madam was thinking too highly of Li Wanrou.

Li Wanrou rolled her eyes. “Mom, what are you saying? How could I speak to her? Ha, I wish she would make a fool of herself! Hmph, I really can’t stand that vulgar woman! Just wait, when she becomes the laughingstock of the capital, let’s see if my third brother still wants her!”

“If your third brother abandons her, then Miss Zhu will likely become your sister-in-law!” Second Madam smiled happily. “Then—”

“Mother, don’t worry! I will definitely get close to her!” Li Wanrou’s eyes lit up.

The mother and daughter shared a smile, feeling quite pleased with themselves.

“But mother!” Li Wanrou cried, feeling distressed again. “What kind of jewelry should I wear? I really don’t have anything good enough for that crowd!”

Second Madam grit her teeth. “It’s fine, we will buy some now!”

Happy again, Li Wanrou hugged Second Madam’s arm and learned against her affectionately, saying: “Mom is the one that loves me the most!”

–

In the blink of an eye, it was time for the banquet. That day, Lian Fangzhou changed her clothes, combed her hair, and got ready to leave.

She had never been very particular about these kinds of things and this was not a good party. Since there was no telling what the situation would be like today, there was no need to show off. She picked out a lilac satin jacket embroidered with primroses and paired with a front placket narrow sleeved aqua blue shirt embroidered with bamboo leaves, a white sash, and a pine-colored skirt.

Her hair was combed into a loose bun and other than a simple eight-treasure aster flower hairpin with a silver tassel and a pair of mutton-fat white jade bracelets, there was no outstanding jewelry.

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This simplistic outfit revealed elegance and was fresh without being plain. She looked peaceful, calm, and elegant, without losing her identity.

Since Li Fu did not go to court or the yamen today, he spent the whole morning wandering around with Lian Fangzhou. Seeing her all dressed up, he said: “I will take you over! You can just go in and say hello, I will be there if you get bored. If you really want to admire the flowers, I will take you over to the imperial temple, I heard the chrysanthemums are growing very well over there!”

Lian Fangzhou knew that he was worried that she would be plotted against by Zhu Yuying but what should come would always come.

PUGPF – Chapter 738

Chapter 738: Will she still be invited?

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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Seeing that Li Fu was still frowning, Lian Fangzhou smiled slyly. “I can’t let others look down on my, I want everyone to know I am worthy of you!”

“You have always been worthy of me.” Li Fu’s heart tightened when he heard her words and his arms pulled her closer. “In my heart, you are the best wife!”

“Then what are you worried about, my husband…” Lian Fangzhou muttered. Fiercely wrapping her arms around his neck, she took the initiative to kiss him.

Li Fu hummed low in his throat and responded with even more enthusiasm. In front of his wife, his self-control plummeted to zero and he couldn’t help but think: Would she use a beauty trap if he refused a little bit? Maybe he would try it in the future…

Putting that thought away, he picked Lian Fangzhou up and walked towards the bedroom.

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The next day, Li Fu went to court and Lian Fangzhou saw him off. Afterwards, she didn’t go back to sleep but went to talk a walk in the garden. Then she washed her hands, had breakfast, dealt with a few household matters, and went to the kitchen.

Unexpectedly, the nanny watching the door came in and reported: “Someone has come to the door, asking to speak with Madam.”

Lian Fangzhou frowned, wondering who this person could be, and asked them to bring the person inside. The person turned out to be Nanny Zhou, who served Second Madam and was a familiar face.

 When Nanny Zhou raised her eyes, she saw Lian Fangzhou sitting on the main seat with a beautiful appearance and natural aloofness. She was wearing a magenta cross collar jacket embroidered with begonias, a light purple shirt embroidered with branches, and a peach red sixteen-piece hunan skirt. In her hair was a green hairpin, adding to her extraordinary appearance.

Nanny Zhou’s heart trembled and she instinctively felt cowed. Lowering her head, she didn’t dare to raise it again as she stepped forward to salute.

Was this the same country woman she had met on the pier? Nanny Zhou felt very uncomfortable.

Of course, she didn’t want to admit how powerful Lian Fangzhou looked. Unable to ignore her emotions, she could only deceive herself by sighing inwardly: It was all the clothing! After Lian Fangzhou had good fortune. If she had such good fortune, she would not be worse than her…

“It turns out to be Aunt Zhou. If you have something to say, just tell me!” Lian Fangzhou smiled and ordered a little maid to bring over a chair for her.

Nanny Zhou thanked her and sat down carefully with a smile. “This old slave was sent over by Second Madam. Our young miss will be attending an important banquet tomorrow and would like to borrow some jewelry from Third Young Madam. Just a few things, like the beaded phoenix hairpin and pair of mutton-fat white jade bracelets Third Young Madam wore that day she received the title. Second Madam said that when miss comes back from the banquet, she will return those things to Third Young Madam!”

Chun Xing and Bi Tao could not help but twitch their lips secretly. With Li Wanrou and Second Madam’s temperament, would she really return those things? Not to mention their madam, even they didn’t believe it!

Lian Fangzhou was amused in her heart. She was really discerning, picking out two good things as soon as she opened her mouth!

“An important banquet? What kind of banquet?” Lian Fangzhou didn’t answer but asked curiously.

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Nanny Zhou was eager to show off her miss’ dignity in front of Lian Fangzhou, so she immediately smiled proudly and said: “It’s the biological sister of Princess Li who is holding a banquet to appreciate the chrysanthemums outside city in two days. She specially invited our miss!”

The day after tomorrow? Zhu Yuying?

Lian Fangzhou raised an eyebrow as her heartbeat picked up. Smiling, she said: “Oh, is the Princess Li’s sister very close to Wanrou?”

Nanny Zhou looked stumped.

Not waiting for her to answer, Lian Fangzhou smiled. “If a person is close, it doesn’t matter what jewelry you wear. It’s okay to wear what you have at home!”

Startled, Nanny Zhou cried: “No, no! It’s the first time Miss Zhu has invited our young miss and Second Madam attaches great importance to this opportunity. I think Miss Zhu will definitely become closer to our miss in the future!”

Thinking about it, Lian Fangzhou started to understand some things in her heart. Smiling awkwardly, she said: “What a coincidence, Miss Zhu also invited me to attend her chrysanthemum party in two days. I’m afraid I can’t loan those things, I was planning on wearing them myself.”

Nanny Zhou looked at Lian Fangzhou doubtfully.

Lian Fangzhou smiled lightly. “What? Does Aunt Zhou want to see my invitation?”

“No, no! I don’t dare!” Nanny Zhou was actually a little afraid of Lian Fangzhou’s look and quickly shook her head, waving her hands.

Since Lian Fangzhou wanted to use such an excuse, it was obvious that Nanny Zhou couldn’t use the second madam’s plan. She had no choice but to stand up and leave.

Lian Fangzhou didn’t keep her and had a little maid send her out.

What a coincidence that not only had Zhu Yuying invited her, she had also invited Li Wanrou, who she had never been friends with before. Zhu Yuying was indeed, very affectionate and actually asked about the Li family affairs!

Did she think she could use Li Wanrou as a sword to achieve her purpose?

If Lian Fangzhou had run into Li Wanrou at the banquet, she would have been caught off guard. Thankfully, Nanny Zhou came and let her know in advance, so she could plan to deal with it calmly.

–

When Second Madam and Li Wanrou received Zhu Yuying’s invitation, they almost went crazy with joy. Who was the Zhu family? They were a noble family that gave birth to a prince consort! This was a level that people like Second Madam and Li Wanrou could not reach!

And the sixth young miss of the Zhu family had actually posted a personal invitation to Li Wanrou, this was a huge honor!

Li Wanrou’s heart was hot, feeling as if she had become completely superior.

Second Madam excitedly told her repeatedly that after she went over, she must become good friends with Zhu Yuying and gain her favor, so that she could have the opportunity to attend such banquets in the future. This would be a great benefit in finding a good marriage.

Naturally, Li Wanrou also thought this way and quickly agreed. The mother and daughter talked all night, feeling that a golden opportunity had opened up in front of her!

But when she woke up the next morning, Li Wanrou suddenly remembered that she didn’t have any good jewelry, how could she go? Wouldn’t those people laugh at her?

Her mind quickly turned to the things that Lian Fangzhou had been wearing the last time she saw her and her heart moved. After quickly washing up, she went to find her mother to ask her to help borrow a few items from Lian Fangzhou.

Of course, whether she returned the things she borrowed would depend on her mood!

When she married into a high-ranked family and could treat gold and silver like dirt, she would return those things to Lian Fangzhou.

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Second Madam was convinced and smiled: “My Wanrou is a great beauty, only you are worthy of such good things! Mother will send someone over to borrow them from her, she won’t be able to be stingy! Look at your clothes and see if any are suitable. If we don’t buy them now, I’m afraid it will be too late to get them later!”

Naturally Li Wanrou would not refuse and also said that she wanted to buy some new makeup as well, which could match her delicate skin.

Second Madam was determined to launch Li Wanrou into the upper-class circle, so she was willing to spend a lot of money. No matter what Li Wanrou asked for, she agreed without hesitation.

PUGPF – Chapter 737

Chapter 737: Arrogant Princess

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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After calming her down, Li Fu found two people passing by and hired one to guard the horse while the other went to the Li manor to bring someone back.

Lian Fangzhou’s expression was still dark so he pulled her into a hug and smiled. “Let’s go! Are you scared? Didn’t I say that as long as I am here, no one can hurt you? Don’t be afraid.” He lifted her onto his own horse and valiantly swung up behind her. Holding her carefully in his arms, he nudged his horse forward.

Suddenly, Lian Fangzhou sighed. “I always feel afraid these days, thinking that there is danger everywhere in the capital. If you don’t pay attention, you will suffer a disaster! Do you think I should practice martial arts too?”

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“…” Li Fu felt that when it came to preparing for a rainy day, no one was a match for his wife.

“Forget it, it’s not that serious.” Li Fu smiled. “Today was just an accident. From now on, when you want to go out, I will accompany you when I have time. If I don’t have time, I will have Luo Guang and the others go with you. You can keep your heart in your chest.”

“Oh.” Lian Fangzhou said. “But I still feel like I need to have something handy. Are there any simple martial art forms?”

“Simple?” Li Fu thought for a moment and then laughed. “What you said makes sense. There is no easy way to learn martial arts but I have a few ideas. When we go back, I will have someone make you a few sleeve arrows to have for emergencies, okay?”

Her eyes lit up happily and her mouth curved into a smile. “That’s a great idea! Don’t forget!”

Li Fu smiled and hugged her tighter. Leaning against her neck, he whispered: “How could I forget? I will get it started tomorrow…”

The couple snuggled intimately on the horse, completely forgetting about the other people on the road. They didn’t notice all the strange looks and glances they were getting from the pedestrians…

Lian Fangzhou found a comfortable position in Li Fu’s arms and leaned back lazily. “I vaguely saw that there was a woman leading those people back then? Could she be a princess from the capital?”

They had not stopped for Li Fu, which showed that their position could not be low.

Thinking about it, Li Fu smiled and said: “There was a big story in the capital not long ago and I think this person should be Princess Liu.”

Lian Fangzhou looked startled. “Princess Liu? Is Prince Liu so powerful that his wife can be arrogant and domineering? The emperor is so good to his relatives!”

Li Fu smiled faintly. “This princess is not an ordinary person. She is from the Northern Kingdom, Princess Feng Zhen. I heard that a few years ago she accompanied her father as an envoy and fell in love with the talented Prince Liu in one glance. At the time, she was a secondary princess and so this marriage was very beneficial. Both countries were willing to make the match. The princess was very impatient and didn’t even wait until her hair tying ceremony to get married. Later, her father had the honor to ascend the throne as emperor after the previous emperor died, and she went from being a secondary princess to an imperial princess. She was already married to Prince Liu at the time and since she was favored by her father, he sent an envoy to confirm her title and reward her with countless rare treasures. Her marriage to Prince Liu also made him very popular and though he won’t become the crown prince, he enjoys a first-rate prince’s salary and honor guard.”

Lian Fangzhou thought about it and came to some realizations. As a princess of two nations, it was no wonder that she was so arrogant. A favored foreign princess, naturally nothing could be done about her. Afraid that if she got into trouble, they would have to clean up the mess!

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It seemed that they were just unlucky today.

Li Fu laughed. “Let’s not talk about her! In fact, there are only a few people like her in the capital so just avoid them if you see them from a distance.” There really was no other way to deal with such a person!

Luckily, Lian Fangzhou had never been someone who worried about things she couldn’t change. She smiled and stopped mentioning it, chatting lightly with Li fu.

Neither of them realized that their intimate position would irritate a lot of people and later there would be rumors that Li Fu found a male lover outside, causing Li Fu to be sullen and annoyed for a long time. Lian Fangzhou was banned from wearing men’s clothing, which made her laugh so hard she cried.

–

A week later, Lian Fangzhou finally calculated the accounts of the pastry shops and the results were both satisfying and a little surprising. It seemed that it was true that food was the most important thing for people. If a business was done well, it would make money!

In just a few days, Xinghua Village had already made a name for itself. It’s three main cakes were extremely popular, especially the egg tarts, and they were sold out every morning. Long lines of customers would wait outside every door, many full of older people.

Not to mention Lian Fangzhou, her shopkeepers, Li Si, and Wang Wu were also excited and full of pride. No one had expected such a great performance.

Lian Fangzhou took the opportunity to encourage everyone and promise that if business continued to boom, there would be bonuses at the end of the year. She also specifically told Li Si and Wang Wu to be optimistic and remember not to cut corners. Everything had to be done realistically.

Everyone agreed.

Now Lian Fangzhou was free to focus on her roast duck.

The main shop had been renovated, the staff were trained, and all of the necessary tools and utensils were prepared. Even the poultry livestock had been ordered and were waiting in cages for the opening day.

The only think left was the taste. Although she had managed to make a finished product, it didn’t taste quite right and she still needed to tweak the recipe a few more times.

Before she knew it, she suddenly received a message from Zhu Yuying, inviting her to the Zhu family’s house in the countryside to view chrysanthemums.

It couldn’t come soon enough!

Lian Fangzhou sneered in her heart. Admiring chrysanthemums? More like a Hongmen banquet!

When she told Li Fu about it, his face went dark. “The Zhu family again? They still aren’t giving up! I think its better not to go, it won’t be anything good and I will be worried about you.”

She smiled. “I’ve already accepted the invitation, I have to go.”

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“Just let me handle it.” Li Fu hugged her, lowering his head to kiss her gently on the cheek. “I don’t want you to take risks, not even a little. Is the foundation of our family so shallow? I’m worried—”

“Husband!” Lian Fangzhou covered his mouth softly. “I have to go but don’t worry, I will be careful! Based on your identity, I will be safe. Zhu Yuying would never dare to blatantly deal with me while you are here. If she wants to plot against me, hmph! I don’t know if she has the ability!”

PUGPF – Chapter 736

Chapter 736: Go back

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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---

A coachman, groom, and servants were all the most useful, closest people around a man. These servants had been carefully selected and she had been sure they would gain Li Fu’s favor!

There were also the two embroiders. Before she sent them over, she had specially designed several sets of unique men’s clothing and taught them how to sew them. This was the equivalent of making clothing for him herself.

She even had her third brother go to the famous brothels in the capital to inquire about their fashion and instructed the embroiders to make a few sets of clothing in the most famous brothel styles for Lian Fangzhou!

Hmph, she had been waiting to see Lian Fangzhou make a fool of herself! Who knew that her dreams would disappear before they even started? How could she not be annoyed?

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They actually returned the gift, what a bully!

Zhu Yuying hated Lian Fangzhou even more.

–

Just two days after Li Fu and Lian Fangzhou moved into their new house, a new shop called Xinghua Village Pastries opened on the 8^th.

In fact, a total of sixteen of them opened, all at the same time. In addition to their main cakes such as egg tarts, cloud cakes, and honey cakes, they also took advantage of the Double Nineth Festival coming up to launch flower cakes, chrysanthemum crystal cakes, walnut cakes, pear cakes, milk rolls, silk cakes, and several others. The variety was dazzling.

The day before, the preparations were all in place and Lian Fangzhou had randomly selected six stores to check out. When she was sure that there were no flaws, she sat back and waited for the opening.

The morning of the 8^th, she took Li Fu out and visited the shop with the best location. Watching the people coming and going and smelling the crispy egg tarts from a distance, she was very excited.

Li Fu shook her hand and smiled. “Are you relieved now?”

Lian Fangzhou smiled, her brows full of joy. “Three days of grand opening with half off two items each day, I wonder if we will have any people? I can only count the records after a few days.”

Despite her modest tone, Li Fu could see how obviously thrilled she was and couldn’t help but laugh. Knowing that she liked to hear good things, he said: “Food is the most important thing for people. Other things can be given up but as long as there is good food, people will come. If you don’t believe me, wait three days and you will see.”

As expected, Lian Fangzhou’s smile became even brighter and she nodded happily.

Not long after they returned home, Chun Xing and Bitao also returned from checking the other stores. Looking at the smiles on their faces, Lian Fangzhou could tell that the business was going to be successful.

Now that her idea was realized, Lian Fangzhou’s confidence rose rapidly. She would just wait to see how the sales turned out after a few weeks and then she would start planning her second batch of stores. She also needed to prepare for the roast duck restaurants.

It seemed that it wasn’t as hard as she thought to get a share of the pie in the capital…

Business was worry-free and the next day was the Double Ninth festival. Li Fu had agreed to take Lian Fangzhou out of the city to enjoy the scenery.

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The next day, Lian Fangzhou suddenly wanted to dress in men’s clothing so they could ride out of the city without any guards. Li Fu couldn’t resist her and complied.

 Wearing a plain green robe embroidered with bamboo leaves and a pair of soap-colored boots, her figure appeared much taller. When she tied her hair up with a men’s hairpin, she looked handsome and a bit romantic.

Satisfied, Lian Fangzhou held Li Fu’s hand and the couple went out together.

Chun Xing and the others watched them leave, looking a little dazed. They all felt something was wrong…

After a moment, they all realized: Madam was dressed like a man but she was still holding Master’s hand and behaving so intimately… how would others see this?

–

Lian Fangzhou and Li Fu rode out of the house together.

Quickly slowing his horse, he said: “Slow down when we approach the market later. Follow me and don’t move around too much. There are a lot of people in the city, be careful not to bump anyone.”

Lian Fangzhou smiled and nodded. “Don’t worry, I am not so ignorant!”

Li Fu was more worried about people bumping into her and guarded her carefully. Seeing his nervous expression, Lian Fangzhou’s heart was warm and see was too shy to mess around.

Behaving herself, she followed him cautiously out of the city.

Today was the Double Ninth festival and there were quite a few people going out of the city to enjoy the scenery. However, as they moved further away from the city, the number of people became less and les.

Lian Fangzhou stretched on top of her horse and smiled sweetly at Li Fu: “Husband, can we start galloping now?”

Li Fu furrowed his brow, hesitating.

“After all my hard work, can’t I relieve my boredom and relax?” Lian Fangzhou curled her lips.

“Go!” Li Fu couldn’t stand it and gave in with a smile. “I can see I am holding you back! But don’t go too fast.”

His wife laughed. “Don’t worry, my riding skills are pretty good now!” Raising her arm, she struck the horse with the whip. The horse immediately neighed and raised it’s legs, breaking into a gallop.

The wind was strong, whistling past her ears and the sides of her face while her clothing flattened against her body with a rustling sound. Nothing could compare to the joy of flying through the wind, making people feel excited and relaxed.

“Fangzhou, slow down!” Li Fu shook his head and urged his horse forward to follow close behind her. He expertly controlled his speed to stay at a steady distance, ready to protect her if something unexpected happened.

What Li Fu didn’t expect was that his precaution would soon come in handy.

It didn’t take long for the sound of horses to suddenly burst out like thunder behind them. Turning around, Li Fu saw nearly two dozen horses charging towards them with impressive momentum and no hesitation, raising a thick cloud of dust.

Shocked, he realized that this situation was not good and with a light push against the stirrup, he used his strength to jump over to Lian Fangzhou.

Lian Fangzhou screamed ‘Ah’ as he wrapped his arms around her and they tumbled onto the side of the road.

“You—” Lian Fangzhou was about to ask him what he was doing when she was suddenly choked by a burst of flying dust. Her poor horse was not as lucky as them and had no time to dodge before she was trampled to the ground by those people. She fell to the ground with a scream and it was clear that she was injured.

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“Those people are really too much!” Lian Fangzhou took out a handkerchief and covered her mouth and nose, coughing a few times. She stepped forward to look at her horse and her expression became even more ugly. “Who are they! They must be officials from the capital? What an arrogant attitude, daring to be lawless at the emperor’s feet!” she said angrily.

Li Fu’s expression was black. Turning to look at her, he patted Lian Fangzhou’s shoulder gently and said: “Okay, don’t be angry. Since we came out to play, let’s not ruin the mood. If you can’t bear to put down the horse, let’s have someone bring it back to the house to take care of. You won’t be able to ride it anymore though.”

Lian Fangzhou had a good heart so naturally she felt sorry for her horse. Hearing Li Fu, she was both upset and comforted. With no choice, she agreed.

---

TN: Poor horse ☹

PUGPF – Chapter 735

Chapter 735: The Zhu family’s gift

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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---

“What a big gift. Husband, this kind of kindness is really rare. I wonder what my husband plans to do with it?” Lian Fangzhou smiled.

Li Fu heard her tone and his scalp went numb. His wife had clearly figured it out and was angry!

Snorting, he made an expression of disgust and said without thinking: “I am not used to using the servants of others, deal with them as you please!”

This is what Lian Fangzhou wanted to hear. Feeling relieved, she smiled and said: “I also don’t like using people given by others. Is it okay to send these people back?”

“Of course!” Li Fu said immediately.

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The Zhu family’s approach, even if they didn’t have any ulterior motives, was improper. It was taboo to send your own servants into someone else’s house! This was especially true when the two parties were not close, making it the equivalent of sending in spies. Who would be able to tolerate this?

Even the second branch didn’t talk about sending in maids and servants!

Steward Qian looked startled and advised: “Madam… is sending back a gift like this okay? I’m afraid that the Zhu family might have some ideas.” Seeing Lian Fangzhou give him a look, he quickly added: “Why should Madam have trouble with the Zhu family for such a trivial matter? They are just a few servants and they are now part of our household. Since Madam doesn’t want them, she can just send them out!”

Lian Fangzhou laughed. “I know you mean well and what you said is right. However, I want to send everyone back.”

Steward Qian, who had been about to let out a sigh of relief, stiffened and stared at her, looking a little stupid.

Sneering, Lian Fangzhou continued: “The Zhu family is already unhappy with me, what should I worry about? Hmph! Don’t even think about making moves on my husband! This is their own embarrassment, they can’t blame me. If it wasn’t for the cold weather, I would have already sent those people back tonight. Remember to send them over tomorrow morning. Just say that there is no shortage of people in our house and there is no need for such a big gift!”

Subconsciously, Steward Qian looked at Li Fu. When Madam said these words, Li Fu was not only not angry but his eyes when he looked at her were gentle and full of affection. Steward Qian was even more confused. Why was it that this couple was so different than those other families?

The pressure of being a servant was so great, you never knew when you would do or say the wrong thing. He was already an old man, was it possible he had to learn everything all over again?

Seeing that Steward Qian was lost in thought, Li Fu coughed: “Steward Qin, did you hear your madam clearly?”

“Ah?” Steward Qian suddenly came to his senses and quickly nodded. “Yes, this old slave understands clearly…”

But…

Steward Qian raised his head worriedly, hesitating. Facing these two, he really didn’t know how to speak up.

Lian Fangzhou smiled calmly. “I understand your kind advice in my heart but I have my own reasons. Go back.”

“Yes, Madam!” Steward Qian didn’t dare to say anything else and respectfully retired from the room.

There was no need for Lian Fangzhou to save face for the Zhu family. They were blatantly bullying her, did she still need to be polite? This was also a good opportunity to let everyone in the capital know that it was not easy to touch her husband!

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–

Early the next morning, Steward Qian sent those servants back.

He was not confident leaving this matter to others and after making some arrangements for his absence, he personally escorted the people back himself.

Originally, he wanted to hand them over to the Zhu family’s steward and leave but Steward Zhu said that there was no protocol for accepting returned gifts and asked him to wait while he reported back to his master for instructions.

Who would have guessed that this matter was done secretly by Third Young Master Zhu, who spoiled his sister the most, while Master Zhu and his wife had no idea. When they found out, they were shocked!

Furious, Master Zhu shouted: “What a good thing this scoundrel has done! Call him over quickly!”

While someone ran to bring over Third Young Master Zhu, he also sent the steward to politely take the servants back and politely send off Steward Qian.

After the crown prince fell seriously ill last year, his health had been in and out of danger. He was very weak and no one knew how long he would live. His son, the emperor’s grandson, was still young and when the crown prince died, it was difficult to say if he would become the crown prince or if the older princes would still have a chance.

Seeing hope, these imperial princes were fighting fiercely in private but on the surface, each cherished his feathers more than the last. All of them wanted to appear indifferent and content.

The Zhu family was the maternal family of Princess Li and their relationship with Prince Li was carved in stone. Blatantly trying to send their own servants into the residence of the highly favored General Li, how did this look?

However, Madam Zhu’s thoughts were not the same as Master Zhu’s. She snorted and said: “Master, that General Li is so shameless! Why couldn’t he give us this little face? He actually returned the gift we sent out! Isn’t this a slap in the face for our Zhu family? If he doesn’t care about us, doesn’t he still have to have Prince Li in his eyes?”

Master Zhu rolled his sleeve and said coldly: “The thoughts of a woman! Your son stuck his face out to be beaten, can you still blame others? Hpmh, having Prince Li in his eyes? Don’t say this again! Even our Zhu family can only have the emperor in our eyes!”

Madam Zhu’s expression changed and she pinched her handkerchief in her hands, speechless.

Third Young Master Zhu came over with sleepy eyes and was unexpectedly scolded by his father. When he learned that the servants he sent over were returned, his thoughts were the same as his mother but he didn’t dare to complain in front of his father.

Master Zhu ordered him: “Look for an opportunity to talk to General Li later and apologize for this matter! I don’t care what you think, this matter must not be ignored! Otherwise, we can just wait for the imperial censor to come down on us for forming personal factions!”

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“How could it be so serious?” Third Young Master Zhu muttered. “Isn’t it just sending a few servants? How is that forming a faction…” Before he could finish speaking, Master Zhu boxed his ears, forcing him to dodge in pain while Madam Zhu tried to persuade her husband.

Master Zhu was unable to continue hitting his son but he refused to back down. In the end, Third Young Master Zhu was forced to promise he would explain the matter to Li Fu when he had an opportunity.

When Zhu Yuying heard about it, she was so angry that she started cursing.

As Lian Fangzhou had guessed, the reason she had asked her third brother to send those people over was with a specific goal.

PUGPF – Chapter 734

Chapter 734: Moving to a new home

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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---

Li Fu was a valued official and this manor had been bestowed by the emperor. Naturally the Zhu family would not fail to express their gratitude. They had to support the emperor, right?

However, the Zhu family and Li Fu had never been in contact before. And not only the Zhu family, none of the other royal relatives either.

Seeing Third Young Master Zhu coming up to congratulate him with a smile, Li Fu responded with a smile, feeling wary in his heart.

His wife had mentioned a young lady from the Zhu family who seemed to be named Zhu Yuying. He was afraid that the third young master of the Zhu family was not here just for congratulations.

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However, it seemed that he had been overly concerned. Third Young Master Zhu really just wanted to express his congratulations. He chatted with Li Fu for a while and then said thoughtfully: “There are many guests today and General Li needs to greet others, please go on.” Then he left to talk to someone else he knew.

When the banquet was over, Third Young Master Zhu came over and said a few words to Li Fu before he left, asking for advice on riding and shooting when he had free time. Hearing Li Fu’s vague response, he left with a smile.

Li Fu still felt a little uneasy but then thought that he was probably thinking too much. Smiling, he decided to stop worrying about it.

The house was busy until late at night, everyone barely finishing their tasks before it was time for bed. At the end of the day, everyone was very tired but also very happy when they thought of all the excitement.

Although they were servants, their fates were tied to their masters from the moment they entered the manor. The more prosperous the master’s family, the more stable their lives would be. If the master’s found misfortune, their servants were often the first to suffer.

In the main room of their courtyard, Lian Fangzhou had changed out of her formal clothing and was sitting on the couch, chatting with Li Fu.

Although today had been hard work, luckily nothing had happened.

Originally, Lian Fangzhou had been worried about two things: The second branch and Miss Qin.

If it weren’t for fear that family acquaintances like Madam Miao might want to visit Miss Qin, Lian Fangzhou might have even locked her up in her yard with a big lock.

As expected, Madam Miao and three of four other young ladies actually did go to visit Miss Qin. When they came back out, their expressions when they looked at Lian Fangzhou were a bit weird but Lian Fangzhou didn’t bother to talk to them.

This was a matter of their backyard and no matter how long their hands were, they were outsiders? Still wanting to fight for Miss Qin? Who did they think they were?

As long as their husbands were not stupid, they would not allow them to act recklessly.

Intervene in General Li’s inner courtyard? Are you tired of living?

At most, they would likely try to embarrass her at future parties and banquets. But Lian Fangzhou did not care, she had never been afraid of anyone.

Surprisingly, the second branch did not cause any trouble.

Except for Li Wanrou, who stayed home, the rest of the second branch all came. However, none of them acted like masters, giving out random orders and showing off. Instead, they all acted like normal guests and chatted with their own friends.

When Lian Fangzhou saw that they were so sensible, she had to admit she was relieved. It seemed that they could still moderate their own words and actions.

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Now that everyone was gone, Lian Fangzhou asked someone to bring over the gift list to take a look. The gifts were not light, which was beyond her expectation!

She showed Li Fu and joked that she had never thought that moving would be such a great way to make money! Look at these two thick books, if they were frugal, they could live off these gifts for a lifetime and even have enough to make a dowry for their daughter!

Li Fu laughed.

They were still chatting and laughing when Chun Xing came in and reported that Steward Qian wanted to see them.

Li Fu, who had been about to coax his wife into the bath, was particularly unhappy when he heard this. Frowning, he said: “What does he need to talk about? If he has something to discuss, let’s talk about it tomorrow. Tell him to go back!”

Lian Fangzhou stopped him with a smile. “I don’t think Steward Qian is ignorant, since he is here, there must be something important. Let him come in quickly.”

Seeing that Li Fu did not object, Chun Xing left.

“I want to hear what he has to say!” Li Fu complained grumpily. “If it turns out to be frivolous, he doesn’t have to be the steward!”

His wife smiled and served him some tea. “Calm down and drink some tea, you are becoming more and more domineering!”

Li Fu choked, unable to laugh or cry. Taking advantage of her, he squeezed her soft waist and pulled her closer. Whispering in her ear, he said: “Madam thinks I am domineering, I will have to settle the score with you later!”

When Steward Qian came in, he could see that his master’s expression was not very good and felt a lump in his chest. He didn’t dare to talk nonsense and got straight to the point, like he was pouring beans into a bamboo tube.

He had come about the gift from the Zhu family. Namely, a coachman, a groom, two servants, and two embroiders.

“According to the Zhu steward, the coachman is very familiar with the capital, the groom has been caring for horses for ten years, and the two servants, though they are illiterate, they are smart and talented. The embroiders are also very skilled tailors. I put the other gifts in the storeroom but I don’t know how to make arrangements for these people, so I came to ask Master and Madam for some instructions.” Steward Qian explained carefully.

Hearing this, Lian Fangzhou clapped her hands and smiled. “This Zhu family is really interesting and has thought things through carefully. How thoughtful to send a gift like this!” Turning her head, she looked at Li Fu and said: “But why does it require instructions from the master— what’s the matter?”

Seeing Li Fu’s ugly expression, Lian Fangzhou was a little surprised.

Li Fu didn’t know that the Zhu family had sent such a gift. It would be strange if his expression was good!

Startled, Lian Fangzhou thought for a moment and suddenly came to a realization. Looking fierce, she said: “Zhu family? The maternal family of Princess Li?”

“Answering Madam, yes, it is this Zhu family.” Steward Qian quickly answered.

Now Lian Fangzhou’s expression was also ugly. She hummed without saying a word.

The atmosphere was a little weird. The two masters didn’t speak but looked very unhappy, how could the servants dare to talk? In particular, Steward Qian was very confused and frightened, worried that he had said something wrong.

Coachman, groom, servants, and embroiders?

Heh, this was really complete.

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Lian Fangzhou understood everything after thinking about it for a moment. A coachman who went everywhere with him, a groom took care of the general’s valuable horse, smart and capable servants to attend to him. If Li Fu used them, then naturally his whereabouts would be reported back at all times in the future.

The embroiders were of course to cut and sew clothes for Li Fu!

As for her, his wife, she would be quite free, having all the servants of the Zhu family take care of her husband!

PUGPF – Chapter 733

Chapter 733: This little girl’s temper

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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---

Startled, Xiao Mu looked around and saw that this was actually not his doghouse— wait, what doghouse? This girl was too rude!

Bi Tao glared at him again and slammed the bowl in her hands on the table with a bang. “Sobering Soup.” Saying this, she turned around and left angrily.

He suddenly felt a little regretful and opened his mouth to say ‘hey’ but before his wine-soaked mind could think of something to say, Bi Tao was already long gone.

Sighing and rubbing his aching temples, Xiao Mu muttered: “Why did I get so drunk…” He looked at the bowl of soup and felt a little warmer in his heart. He didn’t notice the corners of his lips curl slightly.

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That girl had a bad temper but it seemed she still had a good heart. He had really misunderstood her just now. For a girl to have a grown man misunderstand her like that, she must feel sad, right? Well, he would have to say a few nice words to her later…

Xiao Mu stood up and tidied his clothing. After washing his face, he drank the bowl of soup and found that it actually tasted pretty good. He felt even more strongly that he should go and say a good word to Bi Tao but he couldn’t just go up to her for no reason.

An idea flashed in his mind. Why not go and thank the boss? That little girl would probably be over there too. Feeling proud that he had come up with such a great idea, he opened the door and headed towards Li Fu and Lian Fangzhou’s residence.

Luck was on his side and before he reached the door, he met Bi Tao cleaning the porch.

Naturally, Bi Tao didn’t have a good expression. She glared at him, snorted, and ignored him.

“Hey!” Xiao Mu called out.

But Bi Tao only remembered that this was how Ding Xiang had called her on the day she was picking trouble. Angry, she stopped abruptly and glared at him, spitting words out from between her teeth. “I have a name, Lieutenant Xiao!”

Xiao Mu was a little stunned. Name? Of course she had a name…. but it seemed that he never had called her by name before? Hm, did it sound weird?

Awkwardly, Xiao Mu stepped forward and squeezed out a smile while trying his best to sound friendly and gentle. “B-Bi Tao, right?”

Boring!

Bi Tao rolled her eyes secretly and snorted. Her expression was stiff and polite. “Is there something Lieutenant Xiao needs?”

Xiao Mu felt even more regretful, thinking that his reaction this morning had been too much. No wonder she was angry with him. “Thank you… for the sobering soup…”

Bi Tao’s face immediately tightened and she thought in her heart: Who wants your thanks!

“Lieutenant Xiao, you don’t need to be so polite. This is what Madam instructed me to do last night, this slave was just following orders! Besides, you are a guest. What you do is your own business, I don’t deserve Lieutenant Xiao’s thanks! If people heard you, they would say that this slave is arrogant.” Bi Tao said lightly.

She was not like Miss Qin and Ding Xiang, disregarding status and being self-righteous could only be done by that pair!

“I didn’t mean anything else, just, haha, just thank you.” Xiao Mu felt embarrassed when he heard her words and his heart was bitter. This little girl was sharp-tongued! The people around his sister-in-law were not ordinary after all.

He didn’t realize it but his heart no longer disliked Lian Fangzhou. No matter how partial he was to Miss Qin, he had to admit that the gap between the two was not just a point or two. Not to mention anything else, there was no one in the house that could make Lian Fangzhou suffer.

In all honesty, what his boss needed was a wife who could take charge, was tough and smart, not a wife like Miss Qin, who only knew how to suffer in silence.

Miss Qin was only suitable for simple environments.

Had the sun come out of the west? He actually thanked her, how rare! Bi Tao looked at Xiao Mu, her eyes full of scrutiny and calm vigilance. Her madam had taught them that no one was courteous for nothing. There were no free shows of kindness, let alone a free lunch.

“Is there something that Lieutenant Xiao wants? Just say it!” Bi Tao said firmly. There was no need to put on a show for her!

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Originally, Xiao Mu really had just wanted to thank her but hearing her tone, it seemed like he would be guilty if he didn’t say something. Feeling at a loss, he unthinkingly blurted out: “Miss Qin…?”

Bi Tao’s face immediately went dark, feeling extremely angry.

Look at his exposed fox tail! Just ‘wanted to thank her’? Pah! So he was waiting for this!

“What does Lieutenant Xiao think?” Bi Tao raised her eyebrows. “I’m not her maid, how would I know about her? I’m only responsible for serving Madam! Miss Qin lives over there, if Lieutenant Xiao wants to know more, ask her yourself!”

Saying this, she pointed northeast, turned around, and walked away angrily.

This was too much!

Xiao Mu stood there, dumbfounded. It seemed that this little girl was… very angry? But thinking about it, he couldn’t figure out where he had offended her.

Shaking his head, he sighed softly. His eyes could not help turning northeast with a dark expression. A sense of bitter helplessness slowly spread from the bottom of his heart.

Didn’t he want to see her? However, he knew that she did not want to see him, the only thing she wanted was the boss.

Unfortunately…

–

The sixth day of the month arrived quickly, which was the day that they moved into the new house.

Everything had been tidied up and arranged and servants were everywhere, transporting things from one end to the other, getting ready for the relocation ceremony.

On the morning of the sixth, amidst the bursts of firecrackers, Li Fu and Lian Fangzhou walked into the new house. Steward Qian led the servants to kneel down and pay respects to their masters, after which Li Fu and Lian Fangzhou passed out rewards. They had now officially moved in.

One after another, guests came to congratulate the couple and both Li Fu and Lian Fangzhou were busy entertaining them in the front and back yard.

Chun Xing and Bi Tao were also very busy.

Hong Yu was managing the kitchen, which meant that they needed to attend to Lian Fangzhou, send messages, and deal with any situations that arose. This was a major banquet and it was also the first time for the staff to manage such an important task, no one could afford to be negligent. Otherwise, Lian Fangzhou’s reputation would be ruined from the start.

Fortunately, with the help of Madam Shen, the wife of Li Fu’s superior, Madam Ding, and the other wives from the restaurant party, Lian Fangzhou was able to take a breather.

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The only unexpected thing was that Third Young Master Zhu, the biological brother of Princess Li, would also come to congratulate them.

Usually, Li Fu would not be important enough for Zhu family to take notice of. Most royal relatives would send housekeepers to deliver a card with some gifts. No matter how favored a general, could he be more noble than them?

But this time was different.

PUGPF – Chapter 732

Chapter 732: Are the two in love?

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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---

Madam Ding lowered her head to drink tea, pretending not to notice, but her ears were pricked as she listened intently.

On the other side, Madam Miao only hesitated for a moment. She was also a straightforward person and when she liked someone, she liked them wholeheartedly. Her mind immediately fired up and she said: “Okay, I will just say it! General Li and Miss Qin are in love, who hasn’t seen it! She is very measured and never hoped to be the general’s wife, why can’t you tolerate such a shy and gentle person?”

“The two are in love?” Lian Fangzhou sneered. “Did she tell you this or did my husband say it himself? How come I didn’t know this? Haha, this is really funny! How could you know something about my husband that I, myself, do not know?”

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“What do you mean?” Madam Miao looked startled.

Lian Fangzhou raised her chin. “I mean that you are wrong! Very wrong! My husband has never been in love with her, he treats her like a sister. If you don’t believe it, go ask around! Anyone can tell you that he once asked to accept her as his adopted sister but she refused. Hmph, hearing what you said, now I understand why she refused!”

Madam Miao’s temper flared: “She’s not here to defend herself, so you can say whatever you want! It’s not like we don’t have eyes, we all saw it!”

“What did you see? Did you see my husband confess to her? We’ve only been married a short while, if he wanted her as a concubine, wouldn’t he have married her long ago? Why wait until Madam Miao comes to stand up for her?” Lian Fangzhou scoffed. Her words could not be called sharp but Madam Miao still felt choked.

Extremely happy, Madam Ding noticed that Madam Miao was about to try and exit the conversation and smiled. “I feel that Sister Li’s words are the most reasonable. Madam Miao, don’t think about this matter anymore. If you miss Miss Qin, why don’t you go and visit her after they move into their new house?”

She smiled at Lian Fangzhou and said: “I heard from my husband that the moving date has been set to the sixth of the ninth month, right? There are only a few days left!”

Lian Fangzhou smiled. “Yes, you should all come and visit later!”

“Naturally!”

Madam Miao bit her lip and hummed slightly before standing up and walking away.

Lian Fangzhou didn’t stop her.

On this occasion, she didn’t hesitate to speak up for Miss Qin. It was impossible for such a person to become her friend. Besides, what Lian Fangzhou said was not false, so why try to sugarcoat it?

If she wanted to be angry, just let her go be angry!

Madam Ding winked and said softly: “Don’t worry about her, just ignore it! She can’t cause any trouble; you are General Li’s main wife and what you said is true. You can stand your ground, what is there to be afraid of?”

“I’m not afraid of her.” Lian Fangzhou smiled casually. “Obviously I have to take care of my husband. If anyone dares to say he loved someone else, I won’t agree with them!”

“Exactly!” Madam Ding clapped her hands. “I feel like my sister and I have really hit it off!”

The two shared a look and couldn’t help laughing, the unhappiness in Lian Fangzhou’s heart disappearing instantly.

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–

By the time everyone was ready to go home, it was very late and Li Fu was drunk enough that his steps were unsteady. Lian Fangzhou raised an eyebrow but didn’t say anything.

In front of outsiders, you had to give people face. But kneeling on the washboard behind closed doors was another matter.

She listened as some of the wives scolded their husbands and didn’t comment.

Looking around, Lian Fangzhou noticed that Xiao Mu was also there and even more drunk than Li Fu. She frowned and called over Luo Guang, ordering him to take two people and help Xiao Mu back to the house.

How could he go home when he was so drunk? Not to mention being unstable, he lived alone with only one elderly male servant to manage the door and clean the yard. Who would take care of him like this?

Li Fu valued this brother very much, she had to take a little more care for him.

Luo Guang quickly agreed and left while Lian Fangzhou helped Li Fu into their carriage. Even though he was so drunk he could barely move, Li Fu still knew how to hug his wife. He pulled her onto his lap and tilted his head to smack kisses on her neck and cheek, a lopsided smile on his face. “Good wife, I missed you so much! Did you miss me?”

Lian Fangzhou giggled, twisting to avoid his kisses, which were not gentle and very ticklish. “It’s not like we separated at the end of the world, I didn’t think about it at all. You just drank too much and are confused.”

“I’m not drunk, I just miss you!” Li Fu rubbed his cheek against hers and said tiredly. “Wife, can I give you a massage when we get home?”

“…” Sure enough!

Even though she was annoyed that he was already pushing, his hot breath and confident movements made her body feel weak. It didn’t take long to switch from the warm carriage to a warm bed, enjoying a spring breeze all night.

When Li Fu woke up the next morning, his head hurt a little from the hangover but he clearly remembered everything from the night before. Thinking about his wife, his heart immediately became hot again and kissed her smooth fingers. They were like fine jade and the soft fragrance tickled his nose with her unique scent.

Unable to hold back anymore, he turned over and wrapped her into another hug, caressing and kissing her again and again.

Lian Fangzhou’s eyes were still closed. Muttering a few words, she twisted reluctantly and even raised a foot to kick him, as if blaming him for interrupting her sweet dreams.

“Still so dishonest!” Li Fu chuckled and avoided the kick easily, not stopping his intimate touches at all. The two had been married for so long, if he still didn’t know her yet, he would be too stupid.

Something sank deeply into her body and Lian Fangzhou let out a low moan. Opening her eyes, her vision was filled with a handsome smiling face and bright, heated eyes. Before she could speak, she was kissed deeply…

The two people were extremely affectionate but in the guest room, Xiao Mu opened his eyes and let out a low shout of surprise when he saw the person standing on the other side of the bed. He flipped over in embarrassment and quickly pulled up the quilt to cover himself.

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His movements made it seem like he was facing a big pervert.

Bi Tao was so angry her nose almost went crooked. Glaring at him, she said angrily: “Who the hell wants to see you? If Guard Commander Luo hadn’t asked me to come and see if you were awake, this aunt wouldn’t have bothered! Hmph!” She was so mad! Who was he? Take advantage of him, ha, not even if he begged her. If he hadn’t been fully dressed, she would have never come in.

Xiao Mu was not very clear headed due to his hangover and his body was sluggish. He scratched his head and mumbled in confusion: “Why are you here?”

Everything she had said was in vain!

Bi Tao snorted with a cold face. “Lieutenant Xiao, open your dog eyes and see clearly! This is our house, not your doghouse! Last night, our madam saw that you were very drunk and asked Guard Commander Luo to bring you back!”

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TN: These two are just too funny!

PUGPF – Chapter 731

Chapter 731: Why didn’t Ah Qin come?

All credit to original author: Yi Yi Lan Xi

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When the couple arrived at Zuiqing Tower, those military officials had already set up. Looking around, Lian Fangzhou saw that there were about twelve or thirteen people, all between twenty to thirty years old. Some of them had wives while others were single.

Seeing them come in, the group all smiled and came forward to greet them, calling ‘Brother Li’, ‘General’, ‘Sister-in-law’, ‘Madam Li’, everyone was very lively.

Lian Fangzhou could see from their expressions and actions that their sincerity came from the heart and she couldn’t help feeling moved.

Now that they were here, the men couldn’t hold back and shouted that they wanted to drink until they were too drunk to go home. Naturally, the woman would not join them and after laughing, their wives retreated behind a screen in the middle of the room.

The wife of Captain Zuo, who served in the Fifth Army with Li Fu, was about the same age as Lian Fangzhou and was already familiar with everyone. She affectionately took Lian Fangzhou’s arm and introduced her to the others one by one.

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All of the women were smiling.

“The more we see each other in the future, naturally the closer we will become!” Madam Zuo said. “We often get together to play cards or ride horses, even archery or throwing pots. You will see later, it’s very lively!”

Lian Fangzhou nodded, smiling.

Another woman, Madam Fu, who’s husband was serving as the foreign affairs official in the Ministry of War, came up and giggled: “Speaking of which, I just remembered something! You all must have heard about it, right? Hehe, it’s our Madam Li who is the most talented! Everyone is talking about how those noble young ladies and madams got beaten at their own game of poetry. Which of us hasn’t had them look down on us over those useless things in the past? Calling our husbands rough men! Hmph, if it wasn’t for our husband sweating and bleeding in the west, could they still sit around writing poetry? They’d just have to wait for death!”

 This Madam Fu had lived with her husband at the border for several years in the past and it was normal for her to look down on those soft capital ladies who thought so highly of themselves.

Many of the other wives also felt this way and after hearing her, they laughed and joked, praising Lian Fangzhou: “As expected of General Li’s wife! You are too amazing! How exciting, we can’t praise you enough!”

Lian Fangzhou couldn’t laugh or cry.

In this situation, she could only smile humbly. Like this, the relationship between her and the other women unconsciously became much closer.

Eventually, everyone sat down and the food and drinks were served. The atmosphere was very relaxed, with several women cheerfully saluting each other with drinks, making the rest of them laugh. Lian Fangzhou quickly realized that her fears had been completely unnecessary. The more they chatted, the closer they became with her, especially after hearing that she could ride a horse and enjoyed playing cards.

Of course, there would always be one or two sour grapes.

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After drinking a few rounds and finishing the food, the group had broken into several smaller groups. Some were chatting while others were playing games. Some sat on the side and watched while drinking tea.

After three rounds of drinking, Lian Fangzhou had reached her capacity. Feeling thirsty, she whispered something to Madam Ding and the two went to drink some tea. While they drank, a young woman in her twenties suddenly came over and sat down with them. She was wearing a pink embroidered jacket over an ivory white dress.

She said a few casual words and then abruptly smiled at Lian Fangzhou. “By the way, why don’t I see Ah Qin? Did you not bring her? I haven’t seen her for so long! Wasn’t she was usually the one who came to these occasions, Sister Ding?”

Madam Ding looked embarrassed. Frowning, she subtly glanced at Lian Fangzhou.

While Miss Qin’s thoughts were unnoticed by Li Fu’s wooden brain, women were more sensitive to these matters. Miss Qin had also never hidden her thoughts in front of them, though whether this was intentional or unintentionally, who knew?

At that time, many of these women had been affectionate towards her because of their husbands, hoping that she would say a few good things in front of Li Fu. Some, like this Madam Miao, who’s husband worked under General Jiumen, was good friends with her.

Seeing that Miss Qin hadn’t come, Madam Miao was a little unhappy and since she had found an opportunity to make Lian Fangzhou feel bad about it, wouldn’t she take it?

Lian Fangzhou’s eyes flickered, suddenly realizing some things in her heart. She couldn’t help but curse ‘bastard’ in her heart a few times! If it wasn’t for Li Fu, how would these people know Miss Qin? She really didn’t know what he was thinking.

“She’s doing well at home.” Lian Fangzhou smiled leisurely. “I wanted to bring her but I didn’t think it would be good, after all, what would be her identity? I will talk about it next time and when we get together again, I will definitely bring her.”

“That’s right!” Madam Ding smiled. “As the sister of General Li, how could Ah Qin come out so easily?”

If there were people like Madam Miao who felt sorry for Miss Qin, then naturally there were people like Madam Ding who looked down on her.

No matter how unfavored military scholars were, would they marry a girl like that? She was just the daughter of the general’s wet nurse! To put it bluntly, she was a servant. How could she show off her dignity and socialize with them?

Moreover, though she had never been accepted by General Li, she liked to throw out half-hints and implications, making herself seem close to the general. Such a scheming woman was really despicable!

She was lucky that even if the other women disliked her, they wouldn’t say anything. When everyone got together, they would smile and say a few words with her. If it had been Wen Chen, she would have been scolded so badly, she would pass out!

Madam Miao was not satisfied with Lian Fangzhou’s answer and curled her lip. “Ah Qin is different than others, what’s wrong with this? Didn’t she could out all the time before? General Li didn’t say anything about it! I think General Li wouldn’t mind.”

As she spoke, her eyes glanced at Lian Fangzhou. Her meaning was so obvious, she might as well have said: ‘You must be intolerant of others and are deliberately separating her from the general! You are bullying her and not letting her out!’

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Lian Fangzhou could see Madam Miao’s expression and her heart trembled. Expression dark, she raised an eyebrow and smiled coldly: “Does Madam Miao want to say something? I am not a smart person and am not good at guessing riddles. Since Madam Miao has something to say, you might as well say it directly! I also want to hear it.”

Madam Ding’s eyes flashed happily, cheering for Lian Fangzhou in her heart. This Madam Li was an upright and straightforward person, just the type she liked!