The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

Chapter 1105: Imperial Approval

Song Ci also received news from Madam Song, saying that both families have their eyes on the youngest daughter of the Duke Dingguo Mansion, Guan Shuyan. They plan to make contact a few times, and when Su’er returns from his break, the two young ones can meet. If there are no objections, this matter will be settled."Although both families have shown interest, it’s best not to make it too public. If the marriage arrangement doesn’t work out, it would cause discord between the families, which is not ideal." Song Ci told Madam Song, "Daughters are precious and are carefully raised treasures. As the man’s family, it’s right for us to be humble. After all, we’re seeking to marry their cherished daughter."

This was a subtle warning to Madam Song not to act too high-handed.

Madam Song was slightly frustrated, as she hadn’t said much.

"Mother, don’t worry, I understand."

"Yes, when the year turns, Su’er will only be sixteen. Being engaged first, there’s no rush to marry. I assume the Duke Dingguo Mansion feels the same. It’s understandable if they want to keep their daughter for a couple of more years. There’s no need to be anxious; if they wish to keep her, let them keep her."

Madam Song smiled and said, "I thought Mother was eager to hold a great-grandchild."

Song Ci replied, "Being anxious won’t help. The child is young, and marrying and having children too early means they’re not mature enough. Delaying a year or two is fine; their bodies will be stronger, and the children they bear will be healthier. Women go through hardships, so let’s not let our children suffer the same."

Madam Song felt slightly awkward, even though they were talking about a joyous occasion, it seemed her mother-in-law had a deeper meaning.

After a few days, Madam Song thought to strike while the iron is hot and sent an invitation to Madam Guan and her daughter to join her in plum blossom viewing and hot spring soaking. Within a short two-day interaction, they looked at each other knowingly and came to a mutual understanding. As long as Song Lingsu visited, Madam Song would arrange another meeting with Madam Guan to make things clear, then invite a matchmaker. This matter would essentially be settled.

The interaction between the two families wasn’t done in secret. Observant people could see the signs, as the two families, who had little contact before, suddenly became close for their children’s engagement—who would believe otherwise?

Even Emperor Chu got word of it and curiously asked Song Zhiyuan if he was interested in the Guan family’s daughter.

Song Zhiyuan glanced over, his expression one of wondering if the Emperor was being too gossipy.

Emperor Chu blinked: "..."

Can’t I be concerned about my nephew?

"It was mentioned by my wife. My mother is quite fond of the young girl, they really hit it off." Song Zhiyuan considered, then asked, "What do you think of the Guan family?"

Emperor Chu raised an eyebrow and said, "If I say I don’t think much of them, would you call off the engagement?"

"There are plenty of women in the world. I’ve no intention of being tied to just one tree."

Emperor Chu laughed, "You sound like a romantic, yet all these years, haven’t you only had Gu?"

Song Zhiyuan responded, "There’s much to do, no time for dealing with flirtations. Besides, with age, dealing too much is bad for health."

Emperor Chu put down the teacup he had just picked up and said, "Are you hinting that I should spend less time in the harem?"

"I wouldn’t dare, I don’t want the Chu family’s ancestors to accuse me of being an evil minister. Ensuring the Imperial Family’s growth is the Emperor’s duty."

He understood the words separately, but from this guy’s mouth, why did it feel like he was being compared to a stallion?

Emperor Chu snorted softly and said, "If Aunt likes the young girl, then settle it. It’s rare for the old lady to find someone she likes."

Song Zhiyuan felt relieved and was about to speak when a young eunuch hurriedly entered and knelt, reporting in fear, "Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager has suddenly fainted."

Emperor Chu knocked over the tea cup next to him and stood up abruptly, his face cold as frost.