Blossom in Adversity

C144. Covered in a Burlap Sack.

Chapter 144: Covered in a Burlap Sack

In the still cold month of March, the capital city showed no signs of greenery, especially after a freezing rain that made everything seem desolate.

Freezing rain was something usually seen in the south, and it was rare. It was puzzling how it had made its way to the capital city this year, making the weather colder after showing hints of warming up.

News of Hua Jing being divorced spread at this time, with the rumor circulating through the streets before reaching the Hua family's ears.

"Weren't we clear that Hua Jing and the Hua family had no ties anymore? Could it be that everyone thought I was joking?" Xu, the house steward, reported the situation to Hua Zhi while she was in conversation with Wu shi, not even blinking an eye. "If there are no ties, what does her divorce have to do with the Hua family? Surely no one expects me to generously welcome her back."

Although Wu shi was indignant, she could only nod. Many people shared the same sentiment.

"That would be disappointing for everyone. As an inner palace woman, I do not hold the power to forgive and forget as the high-ranking officials do. It's not my place to retaliate."

Wu shi admired her attitude, but she also worried about the negative impacts on the Hua family and Hua Zhi. "If it's just a matter of assigning a courtyard for her to live in, I don't think the other members of the Hua family would object."

"You may not object, but I do. Fourth Aunt, I am determined to put Hua Jing in her place. First and foremost, it was Grandmother's wish, and I have no reason not to honor it. Moreover, do you think she will come back just to sit quietly in a corner?"

She wouldn't, Wu shi understood the temperament of Hua Jing, the eldest daughter of the Hua family. If she returned, chaos would ensue until she gained control. The Hua family had no idea how disorderly things could get.

Wu shi was pleased with the current state of the Hua family. Despite the absence of a man supporting the household, their unity was stronger than ever. Initially, she had her doubts, but now she wholeheartedly believed that Hua Zhi would lead the family out of their predicament.

For this reason, Hua Jing absolutely could not come back. Hua Zhi showed an exceptionally proactive attitude. "I will speak to those families personally."

"Thank you, Fourth Aunt."

The silence of the Hua family sparked gossip and speculation. People naturally sympathized with the weaker party, even if that party had been domineering in the past. When news spread of Hua Jing falling ill, the gossip intensified.

Hua Zhi was not one to sit idly by. She fought fire with fire, bringing up the incident that had caused their grandmother to pass away. Many were left speechless by her words.

In the Daqing Dynasty, where even a slight smile during the mourning period could invite criticism, causing one's birth mother to die of anger was beyond disrespectful, especially with the matriarch's words left behind. No one could fault Hua Zhi.

Despite this, some persisted in blaming the Hua family, and they didn't have to look far to find the instigator.

Holding a plant in her mouth and resting her cheek against her hand, Shao Yao was oblivious to the smudge of medicine on her cheek. "Hua Hua, I don't understand. What is his purpose in doing this? He can't possibly want to reconcile with the Hua family."

Hua Zhi wiped her cheek with a handkerchief. "Why not? If the Hua family accepts Hua Jing back, it means they have forgiven her. As her son, no one can fault him anymore. It would resolve this issue, wouldn't it?"

"In his eyes, am I that easy to forgive?" Hua Zhi laughed, pleased that others saw her as a kind and pure-hearted person.

Shao Yao rolled her eyes. "Even if you are forgiving, that doesn't excuse his actions. Is he oblivious to that?"

"What do you suggest? Don't—"

Hua Zhi's impatient expression silenced her as she recalled the recent news in the capital.

Before the rumors of Hua Jing's dismissal spread, the biggest news in the city was the attack on Chen Zhi, who was beaten and had filth thrown at him. Reports claimed his face was so swollen that he was unrecognizable, and the harsh weather couldn't wash away the stench.

The thought of the impending backlash left her speechless. When Shao Yao approached her boasting about her achievements, she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with conflicting emotions.

Since the scandal involving Chen Zhi and Yu Zhiyao had been exposed, the Hua family had held the moral high ground. Yet, once Chen Zhi was attacked, even though the mansion was full of women now, they were the first to be suspected. If they couldn't retaliate themselves, they wouldn't allow others to do so. Although Patriarch Hua didn't have full authority yet, his influence was unquestionable in the capital.

A perfectly fine situation was disrupted by this foolish girl, and she had the nerve to come seeking praise from her. Hua Zhi immediately withheld all the sweets she had that day.

If Song Chenghao were to be attacked again, the Hua family would never be able to clear their name.

Shao Yao chuckled mischievously, finding this the most direct way to feel satisfied!

"We don't need to pay attention to this. The Hua family's stance has been made clear. Let people say what they want. If the family changes their attitude based on idle gossip, they will lose respect," Hua Zhi said firmly, looking directly at her. "Remember, do nothing. Understood?"

"Of course, I won't do anything. I don't even want to. I felt dirty after three baths when I got back," Shao Yao muttered, her voice getting softer. Even though she had others do the dirty work, she admitted to being the one who had laid hands on him.

Hua Zhi couldn't bear to blame her. Knowing she wouldn't cause further trouble for Song Chenghao, she quickly changed the subject, preventing her from dwelling on it. "Have they found out the child's identity yet?"

"Not yet," Shao Yao leaned closer to Hua Zhi, her hand grabbing onto her arm.

Hua Zhi let her crease her clothing, covering her hand with hers. The warmth from her hand transmitted to Shao Yao, soothing her emotions little by little.

Shao Yao leaned against Hua Zhi's shoulder, whispering softly, "There are always some people who don't deserve to live in this world."

"Even if they don't deserve it, you shouldn't be the executioner," Hua Zhi stated.

Shao Yao looked up at Hua Zhi.

Hua Zhi gently smiled as she held out Shao Yao's hand. Due to years of handling medicinal herbs, Shao Yao's hands were not fair and delicate; they were calloused in places, with small scars here and there. However, if she rolled up her sleeve a bit, her fair and flawless skin would be visible.

Without the disfigurement, Hua Zhi believed Shao Yao would have been a stunning young woman. Perhaps she even had an impressive background and could have married a suitable husband chosen by her parents.

But now, it was all just wishful thinking.

So she understood the hatred in Shao Yao's heart.

"If there is karmic retribution for murder, I hope they meet their end at their own hands, not at the expense of your happiness," Hua Zhi said.

Shao Yao bit her lip, eyes reddening as she buried herself in Hua Zhi's embrace. She was willing to die for Hua Zhi, willing to do anything for her. She vowed it!

Hua Zhi gently stroked her head, looking up at the empty space. Death was final, but for some, it would be too merciful.