The Double
Chapter 103 - 103 76 Regretting the Marriage_2

103: Chapter 76: Regretting the Marriage_2 103: Chapter 76: Regretting the Marriage_2 This year, when the Imperial College posted the examination results, Zhou Yanbang originally thought he would be second.

The only one in the whole Imperial College who could surpass him was the eldest son of the Right Chancellor’s Residence, Li Jing.

But this time, Li Jing came in second, and he was third.

The first place was taken by a Ye Shijie, a name he had never heard before, likely not from an official family in Yanjing City.

“Mother, it’s not because of this…” Zhou Yanbang found it difficult to speak.

In Marquis Ningyuan’s Mansion, he was the only son.

Both Madam Ningyuan and the Marquis were very fond of him, but to make such a request at this time, Zhou Yanbang himself felt it was somewhat absurd.

“Then what is it about?” Madam Ningyuan asked curiously.

“I…” Zhou Yanbang clenched his teeth and said, “I don’t want to marry Miss Jiang the Third from Minister Yuan’s Residence.

The one I truly have feelings for is Miss Jiang the Second!”

The pastry dish in Madam Ningyuan’s hand, with a “clack,” fell to the ground.

…

“The master sent over silver.”

In Fangfei Garden, Tonger held a small wooden box excitedly and placed it on the table.

Upon opening the box, Jiang Li saw neat stacks of silver ingots.

She heard that Jiang Yuanbai would reward silver whenever Jiang Youyao’s performance was commendable.

She wasn’t sure if this was to treat someone fairly or if he had also sent her silver.

However, Jiang Li understood that if Jiang Youyao had come out on top in all assessments, Jiang Yuanbai would have not only given silver but also would have congratulated her warmly, instead of just giving a few simple praises and walking away.

Jiang Li was not surprised.

Jiang Yuanbai and a daughter who had been away from home for eight years would hardly have a special deep bond, aside from feelings of guilt.

Naturally, he would be more affectionate towards Jiang Youyao, who was raised by his side.

Now that Jiang Youyao had underperformed, Jiang Yuanbai certainly wouldn’t pompously celebrate Jiang Li’s success.

The difference in affection was obvious at a glance.

She said, “Put the silver away, we can use it in the future.”

As told, Tonger stored the silver securely, while Ming Yue knocked on the outside door.

Jiang Li said, “Come in.”

After entering and closing the door, Ming Yue came forward and whispered, “Miss, I have inquired about it.

That Miss Meng from the Meng Family still hasn’t returned home.

Madam Meng is still waiting in the residence, and Master Meng has gone out to mediate.

It seems like Princess Yongning won’t let the matter rest this time.”

Jiang Li nodded, “I see.” This was what she expected.

Meng Hongjin was unlikely to get off easily.

Jiang Li had experienced Princess Yongning’s methods of tormenting people.

This time, Meng Hongjin might be left with permanent scars by Princess Yongning.

If things go as expected, Meng Hongjin will be released tomorrow, but what she has endured during this time is anyone’s guess.

Perhaps she has been greatly frightened, or perhaps Princess Yongning has left a few scars on her as well.

The Meng Family had to swallow their woes like a mute person eating bitter herbs, unable to speak of their suffering.

Upon hearing this, Bai Xue asked Jiang Li, “Does that mean the bet with Miss Meng is no longer valid?”

“I would like to hold it, but unfortunately, it no longer stands.

Tomorrow, Meng Hongjin certainly won’t come forward.

At that time, you guys find a few people to declare at the entrance of the Imperial College that I understand Miss Meng has been frightened, and that the bet was just a joke from the start, to be dismissed without further mention in the future.”

Tonger was somewhat disappointed, “That really lets her off too easily.”

Jiang Li smiled and said, “Even if I didn’t say it, Meng Youde would find an excuse to nullify this bet or apologize to me.

In any case, he wouldn’t let Meng Hongjin truly lose face.

If I had lost, Father would also find ways to cancel the bet.

The outcome was inevitable.

Now, by saying this, I can actually acquire a good reputation, why not?”

Others will only say she has a generous heart and broad mind, not just talent but also virtue.

Being too aggressive always seems too calculative.

If mere words don’t hinder the outcome or cause any trouble, why not say them?

In her previous life, she didn’t care enough about her reputation, which allowed others to use it against her.

Now, she intends to have a reputation for virtue – it’s always simpler to operate behind a mask.

“Miss, I heard that people who top the examination are to enter the palace, where Emperor Hongxiao personally bestows honors,” Tonger remembered something, “Doesn’t that mean you will soon be able to enter the palace for an audience?

This is a reward from the Emperor, an honor of the highest order.

From then on, no one will dare to bully you.”

Jiang Li laughed at the thought.

The last time she saw Emperor Hongxiao was after Shen Yurong became the top scholar, and there was a night banquet in the palace, where she attended as a family member of Shen Yurong.

Many envied her, the wife of the new top scholar, since Shen Yurong was charming and promising.

At that time, Princess Yongning even shared a drink with her.

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