Qin Xuan left, his spirits lifted by Qi Mingzhu. Back in his study, he applied himself to his books with more diligence than usual, leaving Wu Jing to wonder how long his master's newfound enthusiasm would last.
Lu Jingning had been keeping tabs on Qin Xuan and Qi Mingzhu. She knew when Qin Xuan had secretly visited Qi Mingzhu's courtyard. Lu Jingning had prepared herself for Qin Xuan to spend the night there. However, her subordinate reported that he hadn't stayed long before returning to his study. When the subordinate went in to serve tea, Qin Xuan was engrossed in his studies.
Qin Xuan suddenly seeing the light? That was impossible.
So, what had Qi Mingzhu said to Qin Xuan?
Lu Jingning pondered. If Qin Xuan had truly reformed because of Qi Mingzhu's words, it meant Qi Mingzhu was very important to him, and her existence would severely impact Lu Jingning's own status. This was something Lu Jingning could not tolerate. She could tolerate Qin Xuan doting on Qi Mingzhu, but she could not tolerate Qi Mingzhu easily influencing Qin Xuan.
The Crown Princess was also keeping a close watch on Qi Mingzhu's courtyard.
Therefore, she too learned of Qin Xuan's visit and departure.
"Go invite Concubine Qi over. Tell her my small kitchen has stewed crispy custard, and ask her to come and try it," the Crown Princess instructed her attendant.
Qi Mingzhu naturally dared not delay. Upon receiving the message, she hurried over.
She had been prepared to face the torment of her resentful aunt-in-law. To her surprise, the other party had no intention of tormenting her. She had indeed stewed crispy custard, served her a bowl, and then inquired about her recent health, advising her to take good care of herself, emphasizing that her health was the most important thing, and nothing else mattered.
"Mingzhu, I know you resent your aunt-in-law, but I don't think I've done anything wrong. You are a mother now, and when your child is born, you will understand the difficulties of being a mother. Every mother wants the best for her child and wants to give them the best. You are not bad, but you are not the most suitable for Xuan'er," the Crown Princess stated frankly.
Qi Mingzhu respectfully lowered her head and listened to the Crown Princess. Any form of rebuttal would be irrational. All she needed to do was to listen obediently. Whether she was the most suitable person for her cousin was not for her aunt-in-law to decide, but for her cousin himself.
"However, now that things have reached this point and you have entered the household, it is irreversible. Even if I were unwilling, I cannot deny your existence. Moreover, you are now carrying Xuan'er's flesh and blood," the Crown Princess continued.
Qi Mingzhu was a little confused about what she was trying to say. After all, since she had entered the household, her aunt-in-law had disdained to speak to her, let alone say so much, and in such a calm manner.
"I have also come to terms with it. As long as you know your place, I am willing to accept you again. In fact, I am willing to dote on you privately as I used to. You can call me Aunt-in-law!" the Crown Princess added.
"Replying to Madam, Mingzhu knows her own status and will naturally know her place," Qi Mingzhu said respectfully.
"I knew Mingzhu was always obedient and well-behaved," the Crown Princess said with satisfaction. "Take good care of yourself and the child. After the child is born, bring them to be raised by Jingning. Rest assured, that is my grandchild, and I will arrange for the best wet nurses to care for them. You, on the other hand, should focus on recovering your health and serving Xuan'er well, striving to have more children. I promise you, if you have a daughter, you can raise her yourself."