Since Wei Youtong asked this question, he must already know the truth and be fully confident.
She forced herself to remain calm, silently repeating "be flexible" several times before whispering, "It was my mistake. That's why I came here today to apologize."
"Is it really you?" You Tong sat up abruptly, showing no mercy, and said coldly, "You Tong has never offended you, so why have I suffered such a calamity? Those thugs caused trouble back then, and if my husband hadn't arrived in time, I would have been killed long ago. Not to mention, there were assassins behind me. Even the most vicious women wouldn't do such a despicable thing, Aunt—you are the wife of a military governor with an imperial title. To do such a vile thing, to plot against your own family, aren't you ashamed before the ancestors of the Fu family?"
"I made a huge mistake, it was all because I was confused for a moment," Shen said through gritted teeth, her face flushed red.
"You made a mistake, but I almost lost my life." You Tong sneered, turned her face away, and ignored her.
This attitude was truly sharp, leaving no room for maneuver. Shen Shi, having been openly insulted, lost face and said in a deep voice, "Things have come to this, I will accept the punishment I deserve. You Tong, don't go too far. Leave some room for maneuver, so we can meet again in the future. The Fu family is only a small place; we'll have to see each other every day. I am, after all, an elder. Even if I've made a mistake, it should be dealt with according to family rules. Your words are excessive."
"So you're just taking advantage of your elder status to act with impunity. I've been murdered, and I can't even curse the mastermind for being vicious? Should I be like your aunt, all smiles and kindness to your face, but plotting against you behind your back?" Seeing that Madam Shen was speechless, she continued, "Or is your aunt threatening me? Waiting until this matter is settled before making things difficult for me?"
These words struck a chord with Madam Shen—for now, she had failed in her planning and could only accept her fate. But there was plenty of time in the future; Madam Wei had married far away and would be living in the inner quarters, where there were countless opportunities for her to cause trouble.
Shen decided to drop the pretense and said in a deep voice, "You should understand the principle of knowing when to stop."
You Tong certainly understood this principle.
If she had to stay in the Fu family, or remain as lonely and helpless as before, walking on thin ice, she really shouldn't offend Madam Shen. After all, given her status as the wife of the military governor, Madam Shen would have plenty of ways to harm her in the future.
But at this point, the feud has already been formed. If she backs down by half a step and saves face, the Shen family will treat her well.
Impossible!
Given Shen's temperament, although she may not be the type to hold grudges, she will make up for the setback she suffered today in the future.
It would be better to take the offensive as a form of defense, making her wary and thus more secure.
He then sneered and said, "Auntie may have the means to suppress me, but I may also have the ability to protect myself. Whether I'll end up shooting myself in the foot is hard to say. Using despicable means to collude with outsiders against one's own family is an unforgivable crime. Since Auntie has come here today, it must be Uncle's intention to have you apologize to the younger generation. This shows his determination. I have no enemies in the household, but if I ever stumble in the future, I will first investigate Auntie. Do you think Uncle values the stability of the household more, or Auntie's reputation?"
Which one does Fu Deming value more?
In the past, Ms. Shen might have still hoped that her husband would protect her dignity.
But yesterday in the study, Fu Deming, in a fit of rage, made his words crystal clear.
The cooperation between the East and West wings is more important than that between husband and wife, father and son. If she causes trouble again and creates a rift, what will Fu Deming choose?
The Shen family is still counting on her to promote and take care of them. If she really leaves the Fu family, how will she survive?
Shen dared not think any further.
It's really not worth risking her future wealth and honor for a nobody like Wei!
She clenched her handkerchief, looking at You Tong's calm and composed attitude, and suddenly realized that this seemingly unassuming and lazy young Wei Shi understood some things better than she did. And beneath her obedient and secluded demeanor, there was a sharp edge hidden—for example, her confrontation with the old lady in Shou'an Hall, and this time, her use of leverage against her.
After a long silence and deliberation, her face flushed, Madam Shen finally stood up.
"Putting aside the distinctions of age and social status, I was ultimately in the wrong. Your aunt apologizes to you here."
As he spoke, he gave himself a slight bow.
You Tong stepped aside, not completely avoiding her. Seeing that she was hesitant, he felt a little more at ease and nodded, saying, "What I said just now was to remind you, Auntie, that if we can live in peace, both of us will benefit, but if we have ulterior motives, we will harm others and ourselves. I have difficulty walking, so I won't keep you any longer, Auntie."
Shen had no face to stay there. She forced herself to say, "Take care of your injuries," and left alone.
...
After Shen left, the house became quiet. Outside, Aunt Xia and Du Shuangxi were busy cooking, while You Tong limped to the side room, took out the business plan for the hot pot restaurant, and stared blankly at herself.
I first entered the Fu family last year, and more than a year has passed since then. Many things have quietly changed.
The initial thought of divorce never faded.
The reason she had initially considered ascertaining Fu Yu's attitude before making a decision was that things were peaceful at the time, and whether she stayed a few more or a few less months wouldn't make a difference. Under those circumstances, if she insisted on leaving, even if Fu Yu eventually agreed, Fu Yu and his son would inevitably feel that she was being pretentious and naive, disregarding the reputation and overall situation of the Fu family, and harboring some resentment, which would be detrimental to her future situation.
Now, the Shen family has given her the perfect excuse.
A reason that would not only not anger the Fu family, but would even make them feel guilty.
She was left with only two paths—
Seize this rare opportunity and leave the Fu family cleanly and decisively, or stay in the manor for Fu Yu's sake.
If she stays, even if Madam Shen has some reservations, their daily interactions will inevitably lead to friction, which is not what she desires. If she leaves, she will get what she wants, leaving no evidence against her. She can let go of her guilt and reluctance towards Fu Deqing and Fu Lanyin, but the only one who will be in a difficult position is Fu Yu.
Thinking of Fu Yu immediately brings his face to mind.
With his iron fist that intimidated the borderlands and his dignified and imposing demeanor, this man was undoubtedly exceptionally talented.
From the initial indifference and coldness after marriage, to the later care and concessions, and now...
Many things surfaced: his little schemes in the capital, his suggestive advances in the bathtub, his daily interactions and playful banter in the South Tower, even that kiss fueled by alcohol, his words of apology, his tender promises, and how he even abandoned his imposing and cold demeanor as the Deputy Military Commissioner to carry her back in the rain, tenderly caring for her.
It would be a lie to say I wasn't tempted.
His importance in her heart had long since gone beyond simply being attracted to someone.
But given the current situation, destruction is necessary for construction. If things are left to their own devices in a muddled manner, You Tong has no idea where things will lead in the future. This marriage started in a terrible mess, and keeping it hidden in her heart will ultimately remain a knot in her heart.
And the shield that Shen offered herself up was indeed very useful.
She sat silently in the side room, gazing out through the crack in the window, lost in thought at the shadows of the trees and the eaves, until the sun began to set, the pale golden light slowly shifting from the base of the wall to its top, leaving only the afterglow of the sunset and the weary birds returning to their nests. Smoke rose from the small kitchen, carrying the soft laughter of maids and servants, and the room gradually darkened. You Tong vaguely recalled a line of poetry.
The setting sun lingers over the ferry crossing, and a wisp of smoke rises from the village.
She sat by the window and chuckled to herself. Suddenly, she heard light footsteps outside. She looked over and saw Fu Yu walk in.
Chapter 77 Divorce Agreement
As dusk settled, the aroma of food wafted from the south building, and the creeping fig on the fence trembled slightly in the evening breeze.
Fu Yu had clearly come from Liangshu Pavilion. He had changed into a casual dark blue long robe, his hair was tied up with a jade crown, and a brocade belt was wrapped around his waist. He was tall and upright. Hearing the sounds of cooking in the kitchen, he glanced inside and saw You Tong through the crack in the window. He then went straight into the side room.
Upon entering the room, he saw her sitting by the window, her chin resting on her hand, her eyes bright and clear, smiling as she looked at him.
"My husband is back early today. Haven't you eaten yet?" You Tong asked.
"I don't have much to do right now, I'll come over as soon as I'm done and we're in a hurry to eat." Fu Yu was quite frank. Seeing a plate of candied loquats on the table, he casually picked one up and ate it, then fed her one. He seemed to be in a good mood. Seeing that You Tong wasn't feeling well, he helped her up and went to the Wangyun Tower area for some fresh air.
When You Tong asked him if he had been busy lately, he briefly told her about the things he had been doing recently.
After a stroll around, dinner was ready, steaming hot and served on the table, enough to soothe a tired body.
After the after-dinner chores were settled, Aunt Zhou, with a keen eye, led all the maids out to wait for orders. Fu Yu helped You Tong into the inner room and sat her down. Seeing several unopened brocade boxes on the long table, he asked, "Were those things a gift from your aunt?"
"Yes, it was delivered in the afternoon, saying it was to apologize to me." You Tong thought about Shen's attitude in apologizing and secretly pouted.
Fu Yu noticed her subtle expression and his lips twitched. "How did she apologize?"
"Just say a few words and admit your mistake, that's all. How else can you make amends?" You Tong was wearing a thin summer dress. Seeing that it was still early and not time to bathe, she sat on the couch with her legs drawn up. She raised her eyes slightly to observe Fu Yu's expression and tentatively said, "However, I have a bad temper. I was thinking about what happened that day and it was really awful. I snapped at her a few times."
"Of course, she was malicious to begin with." Fu Yu's expression was not good when Shen was mentioned.
Seeing that You Tong was sitting with her legs bent, revealing a section of her calf under her skirt, he sat cross-legged on top of her and held it in his hand.
After unwrapping the layers of gauze, the swelling around her ankle had subsided considerably. The ointment, having seeped into her skin, left faint yellowish marks, making her skin appear even whiter, smoother, and softer than jade. Fu Yu gently stroked her wound with his fingers, checking its healing progress. His other hand held her soft, delicate foot; her arch was slender, and her toes were exquisite.
Having grown accustomed to the coldness of swords and the hardness of pens, the warm, fragrant touch of this jade is undoubtedly quite pleasant.
Last night, when they shared a room, he held her in his arms, and when he woke up in the middle of the night, he touched her chest, which was so soft that it made him want to stay with her.
Fu Yu's heart stirred slightly, but now was not the right time, so he restrained himself and changed the subject, "My uncle came over today and said that he has investigated the matter thoroughly. My aunt's character is not fit to manage the household affairs. My father's intention is to entrust these matters to you. I will talk to my grandmother. I hope you will take on some of the work from now on, okay?"
You Tong was preoccupied and had been staring absently at his features when she heard his words. "Let me take charge?"
"Okay." Fu Yu nodded. "Don't worry, with my backing, your aunt won't make things difficult for you."
You Tong smiled knowingly at his teasing tone.
It's quite rare to hear him use the words "backing you up," but—
You Tong met Fu Yu's dark, jade-like eyes, hesitated for a moment, and slowly shook her head. "I can't take on this task. In fact, after Aunt came today, I've thought about many things, and they've all been carefully considered. My husband might be angry if I say it, but I still want to discuss it with him, is that alright?"
Her words were clearly not kind.
Fu Yu did not deny it, but raised his eyebrows and said, "Tell me about it."
"My husband must have investigated why my aunt targeted me. The entanglement involved is not something that can be suppressed with just a few words. And what happened that day truly terrified me—hiring local thugs to cause trouble on the road. Just how much does my aunt resent me? My husband knows my nature. I will try my best to do what I like, no matter how difficult it may be. But I really don't want to play tricks on my own family. If I stay in the manor, even with my husband's support, I may not be able to live happily in the future."
Fu Yu could already guess the implication of those words.
His expression hardened slightly, as he tried to stop her.
You Tong knelt down and placed her hands on his shoulders.
"My husband, please let me finish speaking, okay?" she said quickly, her voice soft.
A graceful sixteen-year-old beauty, delicate and charming, her thin summer blouse's sleeves slipped down, revealing her fair wrists and forearms. She knelt on the couch, her waist slender, her chest full, her exquisite collarbones captivating—a uniquely feminine allure. Her jet-black hair was styled in a bun, adorned with gold hairpins and pearl flowers, accentuating her small, delicate face. Her beautiful eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of pleading.
Fu Yu softened and swallowed the words that were about to come out of his throat.
"Okay." In the end, he didn't stop him.
You Tong breathed a sigh of relief, but thinking about what she was about to say, she felt a pang of sadness. “The Fu family is of noble birth, and my husband is an exceptional man. Although outsiders may think you are cold and aloof, making you difficult to approach, I know that my husband is actually a very good person. I remember all the care he has given me since our marriage. My father, Lan Yin, and Zhao’er have also been very kind to me. It’s just that my grandmother is very strict and my aunt is resentful. If I stay in the mansion, I won’t be able to flatter and serve her properly, which will only cause discord within the household.”
She bit her lip and saw Fu Yu's pupils tighten slightly.
The usually imposing and stern general, whose iron fist could intimidate thousands of troops, revealed a hint of panic in his eyes at this moment.
You Tong felt a sharp pain in her heart, but she still gritted her teeth and said, "Let's just say I'm being too selfish. Life is short, and I want to be as carefree as I can. My husband is wonderful. Even if I lived two more lifetimes, I might not find someone as good as him. But this marriage has been unhappy from the very beginning. How about we get a divorce?"
The voice was soft yet firm at the end.
The room fell silent for a moment. Fu Yu remained motionless, but the hand gripping her shoulder tightened unconsciously, and a dark undercurrent began to surge in his deep eyes.
In the past, when I heard such words, I felt annoyed by the rejection and would often walk away in a huff, refusing to discuss it further.
Now I know that regret is useless.
After a year of marriage, he gradually figured out You Tong's temperament. The matter of divorce had also changed from initial tentative discussions to a resolute tone. She didn't like this mansion, and forcing her to stay would be like a bird in a gilded cage—she might not be happy. He commanded thousands of troops and his fame was known throughout the court, yet today, he couldn't make his wife smile and willingly stay by his side.
He clearly remembered You Tong's restraint and self-control at home and her carefree and unrestrained nature outside.
What welled up in my heart was not anger, but loss and pity.
Fu Yu remained silent, while You Tong stared directly into his eyes without flinching.
After a long pause, Fu Yu finally asked, "Have you thought it through?"
"Deliberate and resolute."
"No regrets?"