Yin Hui expressed her concern, “You’re right to think that way, but I’m worried that both my elder brother and my second uncle and aunt will resent you even more.”
Yin Yong responded with a meaningful look, “A tiger doesn’t eat its cubs, but that doesn’t mean it lets them run amok. You can rest assured; I have my own methods.”
Yin Hui had no choice but to place her trust in her grandfather’s wisdom and experience.
After leaving the house, Yin Hui paid another visit to the Liao family. She found that Liao Qiuniang had started working, and she was busy in the store.
Yin Hui didn’t want to disturb them, so she entered through the back door and met with Liao Shisan.
Yin Hui asked, “Are you really not considering going back to the Yin family? Grandfather has seen the injuries and knows you were merciful. He won’t hold a grudge against you for this.”
Liao Shisan lowered his gaze and replied, “No, it’s not appropriate.”
He had been merciful because he was concerned about the consequences, but he had no intention of returning to the Yin family and facing Yin Wen again.
Yin Hui couldn’t help but notice his strong and muscular arms and asked, “Uncle Liao, what are your plans for the future?”
Liao Shisan had already made up his mind, saying, “I’ll help Qiuniang manage the store. Madam, you’ve been very kind to us, and we owe you a lot. Take Lihua back with you. With me here, no one will dare to harm my daughter again.”
Yin Hui thought about how Liao Shisan’s formidable martial arts skills could be put to use, so she suggested, “Your martial arts are excellent. If you’re interested, I can try to introduce you to the military.”
She believed that introducing Liao Shisan to the military would serve two purposes: it could help him build a future, and it might deter Yin Wen from seeking revenge.
Liao Shisan was moved by the suggestion and even knelt down before Yin Hui, saying, “Madam, Shisan has nothing to repay for your kindness.”
Yin Hui quickly asked him to stand, reassuring him, “Don’t worry. I may not be able to arrange it right away. We’ll have to wait for the right time.”
Liao Shisan replied, “Whether it succeeds or not, you are the benefactor of our entire family for saving Qiuniang.”
Yin Hui nodded in understanding, appreciating his gratitude.
At the Northwest Guard Station, King Yan conducted an inspection to boost morale before preparing to depart. When Wei Luo and Feng Su both wished to see him off, King Yan then remarked, “My third son can accompany me out.”
Feng Su reluctantly stayed behind, observing as the father and son rode away from the guardhouse. King Yan glanced at the guards trailing them and beckoned Wei Luo over, striking up a casual conversation. He inquired, “Has Xiao Heng’s mother gone out frequently?”
Wei Luo responded, “Yesterday, she mentioned that she had to tend to some matters at the bun store but would return shortly. Today, she went to Jinxiu.”
The daughter-in-law wished to oversee the dowry property, and the third son had reported this to King Yan because the daughter-in-law’s property was modest but could prove useful in critical situations. King Yan concurred, yet he found it inappropriate for the daughter-in-law to leave the house for trivial matters.
King Yan refrained from inquiring about the bun store’s situation but instead cautioned his son, saying, “Once a month is sufficient. Please oversee it to ensure she doesn’t grow bolder.”
Wei Luo’s earlobe turned red.
Throughout his life, Wei Luo had strived for perfection and had never received a reprimand from his father. Yet that day, he was lectured for such a minor matter.
At dusk, Wei Luo returned to Chengxin Hall. Yin Hui embraced Xiao Heng and sat on the couch, her watchful eyes were on Wei Luo as soon as he entered.
Yin Hui had expressive eyes that conveyed her concerns. Wei Luo met her gaze and understood her worries. He continued spending time with his son as usual.
The man’s cold face displayed no emotion, and Yin Hui had to endure her curiosity until they retired for the night. Finally, Yin Hui couldn’t restrain herself any longer and lightly prodded his arm, asking, “You went out with your father this morning. Did he mention me?”
Wei Luo responded, “What would he say?”
Yin Hui felt guilty and confessed, “I went out twice this month.”
After a moment of silence, Wei Luo replied, “No.” As soon as he finished speaking, he heard her heave a long sigh of relief.
Wei Luo added, “However, my father might overlook it once, but there can’t be a second time…”
Yin Hui quickly assured him, “There won’t be a next time. I promise there won’t be a next time!”
She didn’t dare to challenge her father-in-law’s authority, especially after their morning encounter. Wei Luo surmised that she didn’t dare either, so he closed his eyes and said, “Go to sleep.”