If it were in the past, Qiao Shanjian would naturally have feigned ignorance and played dumb. But now, he felt it was unnecessary. Since they had come to his doorstep, they had clearly been watching him for a long time. Why bother with pretense? He might as well lay his cards on the table. Instead of answering directly, he asked, "Second Master Feng and Third Miss, what important matter brings you here?"
Feng Er raised an eyebrow. His reputation was considerable, but perhaps only within the circles of the powerful and wealthy. For ordinary folk to recognize them at a glance suggested sharp eyes, instantly discerning their identities.
Indeed, as formidable as in his past life. Though still young and with a hint of immaturity, his demeanor was already undeniable.
A phoenix emerging from a chicken coop. The Qiao family currently lacked anyone capable of managing affairs. For him to have grown into this manner was entirely due to his own efforts. Feng Jin Yao dared not underestimate him.
Exchanging a glance with Feng Er, she produced a box.
Upon opening it, inside lay the heirloom jade pendant that had been swindled away by Madam Shen.
Qiao Shanjian's eyes lit up with joy, but he quickly suppressed it. Thinking of his future plans, he stood motionless.
"This is not something your mother left you. Why do you show no reaction?" Feng Er asked curiously. Despite his young age, his mind was so astute. He was indeed his third uncle's child, quite similar to him in this regard.
"I do not accept charity!"
His upright and righteous demeanor amused Feng Er, almost making him chuckle. Recalling their purpose, he softened his tone and continued, "You have read many books, but unfortunately, you have learned the wrong lessons. We are not here to bestow charity upon you. Do not let your resentment towards your third uncle fester here."
His identity exposed so directly, despite his righteous words moments before, he felt profoundly inferior at that instant.
An illegitimate son, whose birth mother died early and whose father disowned him, to have grown to this age meant he had endured hardships. Even with kind neighbors, there were bound to be oversights. His sensitivity and meticulousness were gradually cultivated.
Looking at Feng Jin Yao and Feng Jin Lin now, Qiao Shanjian's cheeks flushed, his eyes filled with unwillingness.
Feng Jin Yao sighed softly. He was like a child raised by wolves in the forest, possessing extraordinary strength but lacking human understanding. She then spoke words of comfort.
"I understand what you are thinking. I do not know why your third uncle is unwilling to acknowledge you, but Qiao Shanjian, the Bai family is not comprised solely of him. There is your maternal grandfather, your maternal grandmother, your eldest uncle, and your fourth uncle's family. If they knew of your existence, they would never have allowed you to live here alone for so many years."
"Hmph, Bai Sanlang, an illegitimate son born in the courtyard, was still ostracized for years. How much more so for me? Third Miss is truly formidable to weave such a lie to trick me."
Qiao Shanjian had secretly visited the Prime Minister's mansion before. Unfortunately, before he could even enter the grounds, he was sent away. He had only watched from afar a few times as Prime Minister Bai returned home from court, wondering if he could have succeeded if he had rushed forward to acknowledge his grandfather. But in the end, he held back.
How could an illegitimate son, disliked by his birth father, gain favor with his grandfather's other uncles? Rather than entering that den of wolves where daylight was scarce, it was better to hone his skills outside. Eventually, the Bai family would seek him out, wouldn't they?
His resentment was so strong that Feng Jin Yao, a reborn woman, could barely match it. It seemed convincing him to return to the Bai family would be truly difficult.
So she spoke again, "Whether you believe it or not, this is the truth. We have come today to return the jade pendant to you. Madam Shen borrowed this item under the Bai family's name to deceive you. Now that it is returned intact, consider it a token of our goodwill."
Upon learning their intentions, Qiao Shanjian was somewhat taken aback. He had thought they had come to mock him, but unexpectedly...
Looking at the patterns on the jade pendant, Qiao Shanjian couldn't help but recall the portrait of his mother in the inner room. It was painted by his father, her eyes filled with tenderness, just like a loving couple. Alas, this affection was misplaced. He wanted to return to the Bai family, not in disgrace, but to make them regret their actions and beg for his return, only then would he feel satisfied.
With so many thoughts swirling in his mind, a stubborn expression appeared on his face. Feng Jin Yao, seeing this, could roughly guess his thoughts. "Since you enjoy reading, have you considered attending Yunqi Academy?"
Yunqi Academy. Even beggars on the street had heard of its fame. Whether noble sons or commoners, everyone yearned for it, and Qiao Shanjian was no exception.
Seeing his expression soften slightly, Feng Jin Yao continued, "You also know the rules of Yunqi Academy. However, there is a path that can help you officially enter the academy. I wonder if you are willing?" After saying so much, she still hadn't revealed the method. Qiao Shanjian stared at Feng Jin Yao, trying to discern if she was teasing him or genuinely offering help.
At this moment, he truly observed Feng Jin Yao. It had to be said, her beauty was ethereal. But what was most admirable was her calming aura. For some reason, no matter how absurd the words, they became believable when spoken by her.
"Third Miss, what advice do you have?"
"Marry into the Bai family's eldest branch, and once you are legitimately recognized as the eldest son, everything you desire will fall into place."
Qiao Shanjian was stunned. He, an illegitimate son who was not to be acknowledged, how could he dare to aspire to the position of the eldest son of the Bai family's main branch!
"Eldest Uncle and Aunt have been married for many years and are childless. At your age, if you acknowledge them as your parents, although you won't enjoy the carefree days of childhood, I can guarantee that with them by your side, you will never be bullied again, especially by Madam Shen."
Qiao Shanjian harbored an intense hatred for Madam Shen. That person was not only utterly hypocritical but also malicious. If he hadn't been too young and unprepared, how could he have let her take his mother's belongings? Feng Jin Yao's words struck directly at his heart. He fell silent, contemplating the feasibility of this matter.
Feng Er glanced at his sister. They had not discussed this matter with the Bai family. Acknowledging his lineage would not be difficult, but being adopted into the eldest branch was no trivial matter. It meant that the entire Bai family would eventually fall into Qiao Shanjian's hands. Was that possible? Could he handle it? Or could he truly let go of past grievances and treat the Bai family well? He didn't know. However, the certainty in A Yao's expression reassured him considerably.
"You don't need to answer me right now. When you have made up your mind, go to Yiyuan Pawnshop and tell the shopkeeper that the deal is done. I will make the arrangements. However, there is one point that needs to be made clear in advance."
Qiao Shanjian looked at her, his gaze now lacking the initial doubt. "Third Miss, please speak."
"Your eldest uncle and aunt are kind and benevolent people. After being adopted into the eldest branch, they will be your only parents, both in name and in private. You must sever all ties with the third branch, even if your third uncle returns to acknowledge you."