Chapter 1542: What a Lively Show

Editor: Henyee Translations

“Ugh…”

The two of them embraced for a while before settling against the headboard, holding each other close.

Shao Yunduan, cautious and hesitant, was careful not to frighten his wife. He tactfully asked about her well-being, expressing concern repeatedly. The mere thought of Qiao Xuan enduring the past two days and nights made him want to eliminate the Fourth Prince.

Qiao Xuan, sensing his worry, reassured him. She mentioned that she had figured out they took her as a bargaining chip to pressure him. Though initially scared and unsure of the situation, she became fine afterward. She even attempted an escape but was rescued by Xie Jingrong and his servant.

They exchanged stories and comforted each other for a considerable time.

...

Relieved to see her in good spirits, Shao Yunduan noticed the brightness in her eyes and her radiant smile. She wasn’t hiding or frightened in his embrace.

As they discussed the events at the inn, Shao Yunduan sneered, revealing all the details to Qiao Xuan.

Hearing this, Qiao Xuan became furious. “It seems the mole is indeed the Deputy Prefect and his wife. I had my suspicions about Madam Qin, and they must have leaked the news to humiliate you and tarnish my reputation. They are utterly malicious!”

The kidnapping of a young family member of an official for a night was a stain that couldn’t be easily erased.

She suddenly smiled, looking up at Shao Yunduan. “If I didn’t return, what would you do if the Deputy Prefect’s wife kept pestering you?”

Shao Yunduan replied, “It doesn’t matter who comes.”

“But it will make you look guilty!”

“So what?” Shao Yunduan snorted. “As long as I don’t admit it and don’t allow it, no one will dare to intrude. If anyone dares to spread rumors, I’ll set an example. If you’re not afraid, let them spread it.”

Qiao Xuan couldn’t contain her laughter and sighed, “Thank goodness I’m back.”

Shao Yunduan smiled gently. “Indeed, you’re back! You’re irreplaceable, truly.”

The couple exchanged grins.

Had Qiao Xuan not returned, Shao Yunduan would have had no choice but to employ secretive means to locate her and vehemently deny any allegations, regardless of what others might say.

Refusing to admit to anything, even in the face of skepticism and the Deputy Prefect’s wife’s aggression, became his strategy. If rumors spread, and they couldn’t touch her, they wouldn’t dare to touch others either. Furthermore, they could compel the magistrate and Deputy Prefect to punish severely whoever propagated the rumors. It wasn’t the ideal plan, just a desperate measure, and who knew how long it would take?

But now, she was back.

“Madam Qin seems so certain I’m not here,” Qiao Xuan sneered. “I think I’ll invite her to come and see for herself.”

Since she was so “friendly,” so “concerned,” and claimed to be “familiar at first sight,” she should express her gratitude, right?

Shao Yunduan’s eyes gleamed, understanding that his wife’s invitation to Madam Qin wasn’t merely for herself.

He smiled with interest. “Wife, what’s your plan?”

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