Summoned by Song Zhiyuan, Song Zhiqing had no choice but to go, even if he was reluctant, he hurriedly left Plum Garden.

As soon as he left, all strength seemed to drain from Madam Lu’s body; she felt weak, her body swayed, and she propped herself against the table, her lips pale.

"Madam." Nanny Zhou stepped forward, supporting her as she moved towards the Arhat bed.

Madam Lu had barely taken a step when she cried out in shock.

Nanny Zhou was startled and almost let Madam Lu rest her entire weight against her as she helped her sit on the Arhat bed. She then knelt down, lifted her skirt, and removed her socks.

"Heavens."

Looking down, Madam Lu saw her left ankle was severely swollen and throbbing with pain.

Nanny Zhou, full of concern, looked up at her face, which bore a fresh, red handprint, and said, "Madam, we should call the physician from the residence to bandage you up."

Madam Lu nodded. With her ankle in such a state, it needed attention.

Nanny Zhou instructed Ru Yi to summon the residence physician and sent someone to fetch the Jade Skin Cream, applying it to the injury herself.

"Madam, does it hurt? The master is too heartless."

Madam Lu felt hopeless, responding listlessly, "No physical pain can compare to the pain in my heart. You heard his accusations; he treats us like we’re nothing. In his heart, even a dead person is more important than us."

Nanny Zhou grit her teeth and said, "The master is confused."

Madam Lu closed her eyes and said, "Let him be. I dare not depend on him anymore, nor can I."

Nanny Zhou hesitated, then quietly said, "You must endure it. The most detested person can’t appear before you anymore."

Madam Lu, however, gave a bitter smile and said mockingly, "White has gone, but there’s still Zhang and Chen. As long as he wishes, more will come into this house."

"But isn’t there a new family rule this year that a man of forty must not be without concubines? Surely the master wouldn’t dare violate family rules."

"Even if he doesn’t take them in, keeping someone outside or having a maid for comfort, what difference does it make?" Madam Lu rubbed her temple, exhausted, "Anyway, let him be."

Nanny Zhou heard the weariness in her voice and couldn’t help but sigh.

At Moyun Inn, Song Ruwei was complaining to Madam Shen, her emotions leading her to tears.

Madam Shen patted her head and said, "Your father couldn’t accept the sudden loss of Aunt Bai, which is why he spoke indiscreetly. Forgive him this time. Your attire is perfectly fine and shows sincerity."

While saying this, she inwardly cursed Song Zhiqing furiously.

What kind of person doesn’t understand the thin skin of a young girl, daring to mock her openly? She’s the first daughter, not given a shred of respect. It’s downright unruly, like a boor from the countryside.

Madam Shen, touching her own swollen belly, thought that regardless of this pregnancy’s outcome, she couldn’t trust Song Zhiqing with raising the child.

Song Ruwei felt despondent, her heart brimming with frustration, especially towards the deceased Bai Shuilian. Before her arrival, her father wasn’t like this.

A maid entered to report, "Madam, Plum Garden has called for the residence physician."

Madam Shen was shocked.

Song Ruwei jumped up anxiously, "Mother must be hurt; I need to see her."

Madam Shen said, "Don’t rush, I’ll go with you."

How intense was this anger to require calling the residence physician? The master doesn’t know his own strength and might end up causing serious harm.

The news reached Chunhui Hall, and Song Ci’s face immediately darkened.

"That damn fool is really getting more outrageous. We’ll see; if he shows deep emotion after today, I’ll admit defeat."