Meeting the family 2

Duke Shenxiu's residence, Old madam Nie's courtyard.

Liqiu stiffened at the Duke's arrival, she took a few calming breaths and stood with everyone else to welcome him. 

The Duke was the head of the family and although old Madam Nie was still the host. Proprietary dictate that the Duke be accorded the maximum respect.

Her heart raced as the duke stopped in front of her.

Her hands shook slightly and she quickly clutched at the edges of her skirt.

Although she had been incognito throughout that night by wearing the hood, there was still a small chance that her cover was blown.

Madam Liu owed her no loyalty and would betray her in a heartbeat if it benefited her to do so. A lot of negative possibilities ran through her mind, all of which fell through at the Duke's next words.

"This must be your new concubine, Shaoqing".

"Yes, father".