In Shuifu Garden, Mrs. Miao counted Du Yunying's dowry one last time. Once she was sure everything was in order, she finally relaxed and handed the dowry ledger to Du Yunying.
"I've given you everything I can. From now on, you must really make an effort," Mrs. Miao said, while secretly slipping a stack of silver notes into Du Yunying's hand. "These aren't listed in the ledger; they're my personal savings."
Du Yunying clutched the thick stack of silver notes, her eyes reddened.
Mrs. Miao hugged her, gently stroking her back, saying, "Your husband won't inherit a title, so don't entertain vain hopes that will leave you in a difficult position. If you ever truly feel wronged, just send someone to tell me. Our Du Family can't compare to the Chengyi Bo Mansion, but we're not pushovers either."
Du Yunying responded dutifully, casting a glance at the fine lines at the corners of Mrs. Miao's eyes, causing a suspicion to arise in her heart, though she dared not voice it.
