Gu Jiao liked Dean Li and, in a muddled state, took him as a father; what more could she, as a mother, do?
Madame Li's affection for Xue Ningxiang and the child was a plus.
Plainly speaking, Xue Ningxiang was tired and wanted to find a man on whom she could rely, to peacefully spend the rest of her life with.
The Empress Dowager understood Xue Ningxiang's choice.
Not everyone in the world can be as strong as Gu Jiao, who is truly unique.
She never sought a sense of security from anyone; her heart was strong enough and filled with power.
Of course, this came at a cost. No one is born strong; she just had too many burdens to carry on her tender shoulders.
Jiaojiao bore them all.
Xue Ningxiang didn't need to become another Jiaojiao; it was fine for her to live her easygoing little life.
Additionally, Xue Ningxiang wrote a letter to Gu Jiao, which the Empress Dowager had been keeping in her purse for playing cards; she gave the letter to Gu Jiao.