Chapter 782: Staying Away

Translator: Henyee Translations    Editor: Henyee Translations

Madame Qiao was aware that First Madame held a dislike towards them, and she acknowledged First Madame’s strong and independent nature, making it difficult to influence her.

Qiao Xuan’s behavior didn’t offer much support either, as her att.i.tude seemed to align with First Madame’s.

Despite this, Madame Qiao felt fortunate to have made a connection with Second Mrs. Yuezheng.

However, what Madame Qiao didn’t realize was that Second Mrs. Yuezheng had no involvement in the family’s business affairs. She lacked the capability to contribute or meddle in any significant way. Her only purpose seemed to be sowing discord among the family members, making her a rather futile contact.

Nonetheless, Madame Qiao couldn’t leave abruptly. After exchanging a few pleasantries, she decided to take her leave, requesting Qiao Xuan to see them off.

“l would like to have a word with you,” Madame Qiao stated.

“Of course, Mother,” Qiao Xuan responded promptly, showing no hesitation.

Ms. Fang and Yang Xiaoni exchanged worried glances as they observed the interaction between Madame Qiao and Qiao Xuan. Qiao Xuan rea.s.sured them with a smile and a slight shake of her head, indicating that she could handle the situation.

Madame Qiao grew increasingly annoyed by this display. She felt a sense of frustration towards how the entire family seemed to perceive her. How could an in-law family behave in such a manner?

Qiao Xuan accompanied them outside.

In the front yard, Madame Qiao cast a glance at the others, signaling her desire to speak with Qiao Xuan privately.

Qiao Wei wasn’t particularly pleased, but after a momentary exchange of glances with Qiao Xuan, she reluctantly complied.

“Do you have something to say to me?” Qiao Xuan asked with a smile.

“You are the wife of the Provincial Champion, and your popularity is soaring. I don’t dare to give you any orders!” Madame Qiao remarked sarcastically.

Qiao Xuan maintained a pretense of ignorance towards the mockery, responding with a bashful smile, “I’m not that popular, but I’m happy. After all, my husband holds the t.i.tle of Provincial Champion!’ Madame Qiao’s expression softened slightly.

Why had she attempted to mock Qiao Xuan in the first place?

She gazed at Qiao Xuan intently and asked, “Qiao Xuan, I can see through you  now. Do you hate me and the Old Master?”

Qiao Xuan denied it, a serene expression on her face. “That’s not true. We can simply keep our distance from each other, just as we have done in the past.”

Madame Qiao sneered, “Shao Yunduan is still far from becoming an official. Are you already trying to push us away?”

Qiao Xuan countered, “Haven’t we always been distant from each other? What do you mean by pushing you away now?”

Madame Qiao felt a mix of shame and anger welling up within her.

Indeed, their relationship had been virtually nonexistent until Old Master sought to curry favor with Shao Yunduan, considering his promising future.

“You truly despise us. What do you think the Old Master will do when he learns of this?” Madame Qiao questioned.

Qiao Xuan maintained her smile. “As a married daughter, you have no power over me. Madame Qiao, focus on earning the trust of County Magistrate Qiao first.’

“You!” Madame Qiao’s mind raced with one thought—I won’t let her live in peace. I won’t let Shao Yunduan succeed! Otherwise, this wretched girl will overshadow and trample over me!

“You were the one who made the lipsticks, weren’t you?” Madame Qiao suddenly inquired, recalling the information she had heard from Ms. Mi Junior.

The popularity of the lipsticks was undeniable, and Madame Qiao was well aware of how challenging it was to obtain one. Qiao Xuan, in her eyes, lacked the skill to create such exquisite products.

However, Madame Qiao couldn’t dismiss the possibility that Ms. Mi Junior had spoken the truth. Qiao Xuan had been deceiving her all along, hiding her true abilities.

She lied. She lied so she could create those lipsticks, Madame Qiao realized. Qiao Xuan met her gaze, a smile playing on her lips as she nodded. “Yes, I did..