Chapter 5: Placing Her at the Apex of My Heart

"Chosen by Mother herself, you have countless merits. I have been deceived, causing you hardship over these years," Suyuxin spoke apologetically.

Qingque Ziyuan exchanged a glance, seeing disbelief and a hidden layer of surprise in each other's eyes. Both had received the late Madam's favor and pledged lifelong service to the young lady. However, the young lady persisted in trusting those deceitful individuals and even expelled Nanny Luo. They felt well-intentioned yet powerless.

If only the young lady could truly awaken and see through the false facades of those individuals, it would undoubtedly be a blessing from the late Madam's spirit. Yet, they feared. What if this was merely due to angering the young lady? Her momentary whim could lead to more false accusations from Tao Hong, leaving them with no recourse.

"Every word I speak comes from my heart. If a single word is false, let the heavens strike me," Suyuxin solemnly swore, raising her hand.

Her sudden change in demeanor, given her previous conduct, indeed made it challenging to believe.

"You exaggerate, Miss," Qingque Ziyuan immediately knelt down, saying, "We believe in your words."

"Please rise," Suyuxin extended her hand to help them up. "In the future, I'll need your support in all matters."

"Yes," Qingque Ziyuan stood up, excitedly saying, "We servants will be even more diligent and devoted in serving the young lady."

"Stop calling me 'young lady.' I am already married as the lawful wife, wedded by the General," Suyuxin added.

Upon hearing this, Qingque Ziyuan became even more pleasantly surprised. Despite the scar on the General's face appearing fearsome, he genuinely treated the young lady. Unfortunately, the young lady couldn't see it. Now, if the young lady had changed her address, had she discerned the General's virtues and wished for a harmonious life with him in the future? If so, the late Madam's spirit could rest in peace.

"This is Red Line White Jade Ointment, miraculous for reducing swelling and bruises," Suyuxin retrieved a rouge jade bottle from the shelf, handing it to Ziyuan. "Apply it to your palm, and it'll surely restore by tomorrow."

"Thank you, Madam," Ziyuan bowed but didn't take it, saying, "My hand is already fine. There's no need for medication."

"Take it," Suyuxin insisted, placing the ointment in her uninjured hand. "Get better quickly; I'll need you later."

Ziyuan held it in her hand, feeling a warm sensation within.

"Miss, breakfast has been served," a maid entered and respectfully informed.

"Qingque, from now on, this mansion only recognizes the General's wife," Suyuxin directed.

"Yes," Qingque complied.

"And henceforth, I'll dine in the dining hall for all three meals. No need to deliver them separately," Suyuxin added.

Previously, she detested the General so much that she wouldn't even spare him a glance. Since marrying, she dined in her own courtyard, avoiding the dining hall. But now, she wanted to be closer to the General, becoming an outstanding General's wife and growing old with him.

"Yes," Qingque bowed, her delight evident.

"Let's go," Suyuxin rose, walking out while asking the maid, "Did you summon the General?"

"The General has left the mansion and hasn't taken breakfast," the maid replied.

"He left without having breakfast?" Suyuxin paused, her delicate eyebrows slightly furrowed. He didn't attend the morning court today. Was there something urgent?

Regrettably, in her past life, she was arrogant and indifferent, unable to grasp or understand anything. She couldn't deduce anything now either.

"Yes," the maid nodded, feeling perplexed. Why would the Madam care about the General's whereabouts? It was indeed unusual!

"Do you know where the General went?" Suyuxin continued to inquire.

"He's resting today and not attending court. He's likely gone to the military camp," the maid answered.

"Ah," Suyuxin finally relaxed. Her husband was the Grand General of Daliang, in charge of a hundred thousand cavalry in the capital and commanding the northwest armies. Naturally, he was inundated with official duties. Once he freed up, she needed to learn from the mansion's chefs, especially from Xia Nanny. Her culinary skills rivaled those of the palace's chefs.

Thinking of Xia Nanny, Suyuxin felt as though she had overlooked something crucial. When she tried to recall, she couldn't.

Suyuxin furrowed her brows, struggling for a while. Finally, she smiled helplessly. What was she fussing over? She could simply check later after breakfast.

Breakfast was sumptuous: six dishes and a porridge, with Longan Crystal Buns, Shrimp Dumplings, Sesame Pancakes, and Lotus Root Cakes as the main course. The dishes were aromatic and tantalizing, precisely to Suyuxin's taste.

Looking at it, she felt a pang in her heart, inadvertently clouding her eyes with a layer of mist. Despite never fulfilling her duties as a wife and causing chaos in the General's mansion every day, the General still held her in high regard. He understood her preferences and never forced her to do anything she disliked. Even her food, clothing, and other needs were the best and most suited to her.

Yet, she was ignorant of such profound affection.

She had let down the General and harmed herself.

"Madam, please eat quickly; it might get cold," Ziyuan noticed Suyuxin's melancholy and immediately spoke up.

"Alright," Suyuxin snapped out of her reverie, picking up the bowl in front of her.

As she ate, a servant came to report that Miss Er (Second Miss) had come for a visit.