“Isn't this too extravagant? It's part of your dowry, and I couldn't possibly accept it.” Elder Huyin pretended to hesitate, feigning reluctance to accept the gift from her daughter-in-law.

Meng Zhilu observed her mother-in-law's greedy eyes, inwardly pitying her avarice. In her past life, after her demise due to her treacherous husband's schemes, a significant portion of her wealth had fallen into the hands of those three villains.

This allowed the three branches of the Shen clan to live comfortably off her wealth for the rest of their lives. Shen Zhongting, Elder Huyin, Li Lianshuang, and two other branches descended from the former family head's concubines, which included more than 150 servants.

But this life she will not let them enjoy it for long. As for this golden tree, she was merely lending it. She would reclaim it once after the Shen clan fell, shortly.

Meng Zhilu thought, but maintained her face then said. “Why not, Mother? Please accept it. There are many such trees in my dowry boxes. It's only right to share one with you.”

The two exchanged pleasantries, one insisting on giving, the other feigning reluctance. Finally, Elder Huyin 'reluctantly' accepted the gift. With a radiant smile, she promptly excused herself. “Well then, I'll leave you to it, after the journey, you may be quite exhausted. I will return to my chambers to rest for a while”

“Zhilu, you needn't see me off, should take care of your husband”

Meng Zhilu got up and said goodbye to her mother-in-law who walked away with a happy face, “Rest well, Mother.”

“Mother, take a good walk,” Shen Zhongting got up, and said briefly, He sighed in relief as his mother departed, then glared at Meng Zhilu, silently fuming in defiance, for her pretending not to know when he sent her eyes.

Once everyone had left, Meng Zhilu, not wanting outsiders to witness the disarray in her household, turned to the shameless couple, then said

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“My dear sister seems quite weary from the journey. Why haven’t you offered her a room? I've had the servants clean the Wei Feng House. There are plenty of vacant rooms there; you can surely spare one for her.”

The Wei Feng House Meng Zhilu referred to is a residence for female visitors to the Shen family. It was a single-story building located on the north side of the Shen's mansion, built to accommodate guests. Spacious, with up to ten rooms, it was separate from the main hall and dining room. A reading room and a flower garden at the back provided relaxation, especially during the hot summer months.

As Li Lianshuang has not yet undergone the formal concubine ceremony, her status within the Shen household remains that of an outsider, So, Meng Zhuli offered this residence to her.

“Indeed, it might be beneficial for Shuang'er to stay there for now.” Shen Zhongting concurred with his wife's suggestion. After a moment's contemplation, he turned to his beloved, his voice gentle, and dismissed the thought of blaming Meng Zhilu. Seeing Li Lianshuang's melancholic expression, he reassured her, “Shuang'er will stay there temporarily. After the tea ceremony next month, you'll move into the main residence. I'll escort you there personally.” With that settled, they prepared to depart.

Meng Zhilu observed their every move, her gaze steady. A smile that didn't quite reach her eyes graced her lips as she addressed Shen Zhongting softly, “Please, go and good rest. Both of you.”

After speaking, then Meng Zhilu turned to instruct the remaining servants. “Assist Miss Li in transporting her luggage to the Wei Feng House. As for the items of the Master, have Ruyi and the others carry them to the house of him and store them neatly.”

“Yes, Shen Huyin!” Two groups of servants acknowledged the order, and Pi Qiao stepped forward to help lift the chest boxes and the remaining heavy luggage. They carried everything out as Meng Zhilu had instructed.

Shen Zhongting nodded curtly at Meng Zhilu, then turned and led Li Lianshuang away.

Meng Zhilu watched their retreating figures with malice until they vanished from the courtyard. Then, she looked down at the jade pendant in her hand, reclaimed from Shen Zhongting. She had won this round.

‘Li Lianxuan, Shen Zhongting, this is merely the beginning. I will inflict far greater pain upon you. In my past life, I vowed to send your souls to hell with my own hands. Just wait, you two. You'll have plenty of time to enjoy each other's company... in the afterlife.'

With a final sneer, Meng Zhilu turned and walked back inside, heading towards the chamber in the west wing of the main house of Shen’s Mansion.