When Shen Qingyuan returned from the Censorate, Chun Xi immediately told him about Shen Qingchi’s visit.
Shen Qingyuan’s expression was calm: “So you’re trying to persuade me not to divide the family?”
Mo Yunwan wasn’t entirely wrong—Shen Qingyuan didn’t have any obsession with splitting the estate. Everything he did was just to better protect Chun Xi and prevent her from being wronged.
If Chun Xi didn’t want to split the family, he had other ways to protect her. It would just take a bit more effort.
“Of course not!” Chun Xi raised her voice, her expression stern. “If Mother can force your sister to threaten you with her life to stop dividing the family today, she could use the same trick tomorrow to try to make you divorce me. That’s unacceptable!”
Her verbal agreement to Shen Qingchi during the day had only been a delaying tactic—she didn’t want Shen Qingchi to literally kowtow herself to death at the Heart Court.
Seeing Chun Xi’s clarity, Shen Qingyuan relaxed and cooperated: “Then what does Madam plan to do?”
Chun Xi gestured for him to come closer.
“This is what I’m thinking: the family must be divided, and all accounts over the years need to be settled publicly—no one should suffer a loss. The promotion banquet is the perfect opportunity.”
She explained her plan to Shen Qingyuan in detail and asked: “Husband, do you think this is feasible?”
Shen Qingyuan nodded. “This plan isn’t flawless, but with my cooperation, Madam may proceed as you wish.”
His tone was calm and commanding, as if whatever happened, he would fully back her up.
Chun Xi’s eyes curved, and she quickly kissed Shen Qingyuan. “I knew my husband was the best.”
Shen Qingyuan’s gaze darkened instantly.
He knew he had been a bit indulgent since returning to the capital, but after so many years of restraint, suddenly having the opportunity—it was hard for him to contain himself.
He lifted Chun Xi onto the bed. Moments later, as they grew closer, Chun Xi suddenly pushed him away: “No, I’m on my period.”
“……”
Seeing the playful glint in her eyes, Shen Qingyuan’s temples throbbed.
This little vixen was doing it on purpose!
She had known she was on her period yet still provoked him—a clear act of revenge for his recent teasing.
Shen Qingyuan didn’t feel anger; he found her vengeful spirit increasingly adorable.
He sighed, about to lie back to calm himself, when Chun Xi’s intentionally soft voice reached him: “Husband, I didn’t do it on purpose. I really like you and just want to be close. You won’t be angry, will you?”
Her mischievous smile almost betrayed her. If she were a fox, her tail would be flicking shadows in all directions.
Shen Qingyuan tensed further. He gritted his teeth and leaned in to smell her neck.
“Your husband will never be angry with you. If you wish, I can teach you other ways to… relieve yourself.”
“……!!!”
Chun Xi’s eyes widened, her body frozen.
Other ways? What ways? Has he been researching some other… improper methods?!
The triumphant little fox was stunned.
Shen Qingyuan laughed and rubbed her head. “I’m teasing you. Don’t worry. If you’re uncomfortable, just rest well. I’m not that desperate yet.”
He stood, went to the kitchen, and soon returned with a steaming bowl of brown sugar ginger tea.
Chun Xi had a strong constitution and never suffered from menstrual cramps. During her years working in the Wei household, she had no reason to fuss. Still, seeing this bowl of tea made her pause.
When she had redeemed herself and returned home, Madam Wang never cared for her like this.
Fearing her emotions might break, Chun Xi lowered her head to avoid Shen Qingyuan’s gaze.
He noticed and explained: “Don’t overthink it. I’ve been judging cases in Jingzhao for nearly ten years. It’s normal for me to know a bit more about women’s matters than most men.”
Chun Xi nodded and drank the entire bowl of brown sugar ginger tea.
After lights out, Shen Qingyuan held Chun Xi and massaged her back.
Chun Xi’s eyes warmed as she wrapped her arms around him and buried her head in his chest, quietly saying: “Husband, after a few days, let’s go offer incense for my father together.”
Shen Qingyuan continued his movements steadily, replying softly: “Alright.”
The next day, Chun Xi discussed the promotion banquet with Shen Qingchi.
Her attitude was as warm and familiar as before, showing none of yesterday’s cold distance. Shen Qingchi asked uncertainly: “Sister-in-law, are you not angry with me anymore?”
“I wasn’t really angry. Maybe I was uncomfortable yesterday because of my back pain and period, so my mood seemed off and you misunderstood.”
Chun Xi’s tone was cheerful and natural, showing no trace of resentment.
Shen Qingchi secretly relaxed, her mood lifting. “It’s good that Sister-in-law isn’t angry. After all, we’re family. There’s no reason for family to fight and make a laughingstock of themselves.”
She pulled out a guest list she had prepared in advance. “This is a guest list I drafted a few days ago. Sister-in-law can use it as a reference.”
The list was very detailed—relationships with the Marquisate, past conflicts, and notes on who shouldn’t sit together.
Chun Xi looked touched: “You made this list so detailed—it really helps me a lot.”
Shen Qingchi clenched her handkerchief, her expression a mix of nervousness and guilt.
Most of the list was accurate, but a few who had grudges were noted to sit together. Chun Xi didn’t know enough about these prominent families to notice, but anything could happen at the banquet.
If these people quarreled, everyone would laugh at her for being inexperienced and careless.
Although Chun Xi had promised to persuade Shen Qingyuan not to split the family, it was still safer for the household control and the late Madame Marquis’ dowry to remain in Mother’s hands. Her actions were meant to keep the family intact.
Shen Qingchi reassured herself and gently said: “As long as I can help Sister-in-law, that’s enough. By the way, in previous years, the Marquisate booked fruit, pastries, and wine from reputable shops for banquets. I know the shopkeepers and can get discounted prices. If Sister-in-law trusts me, I can accompany you to check them out.”
“That’s perfect! I’ve been busy settling accounts and haven’t had time to think about this. Luckily you’ve done it. Since you’re familiar with organizing banquets, let’s hold the promotion banquet in half a month. The day seems good, and finishing early will make things easier for me.”
Chun Xi spoke cheerfully, clearly pleased with the help she received. Shen Qingchi clenched her hands harder, yet said: “Good, we’ll do as Sister-in-law says.”
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