Chapter 629: Chapter 629: The Unusual Imperial Concubine
After speaking a few intimate words with Song Ci, Song Zhiyuan left Chunhui Hall. Standing outside in the courtyard, he still felt a bit uneasy, so he quietly summoned Nanny Gong for a private conversation.
Nanny Gong came forward and bowed.
"Has the Tai Furen had any unusual concerns lately?" Song Zhiyuan asked directly, getting straight to the point.
Nanny Gong was somewhat surprised and shook her head: "Why is the Prime Minister asking this? The Tai Furen is fine."
Sheâs eating well, her health has been well-maintained, and she often pulls her to chat and gossip about some people.
"Doesnât she seem troubled about anything?" Song Zhiyuan pondered and asked, "Do you know why the Tai Furen is saving up those rewards?"
Nanny Gong pursed her lips lightly, thinking whether she should say it.
Song Zhiyuan narrowed his eyes slightly, saying: "Nanny Gong, you are an old servant from the palace, having been at the Prime Ministerâs Mansion for quite some years. Youâve been dedicated in attending to the Tai Furen; weâve all seen it. I promise you that no matter what the future holds, the Prime Ministerâs Mansion will ensure your lifelong care."
Feeling at ease, Nanny Gong smiled and said: "This old servant has long regarded the Prime Ministerâs Mansion as her home and treats the Tai Furen like her own sister. Rest assured, Prime Minister, if the Tai Furen behaves inappropriately, I wouldnât dare to hide it. As for those rewards..."
She hesitated for a moment, then stepped forward and whispered, "The Tai Furen wishes to accumulate more merit points to exchange for an Iron Certificate for the Song Family."
Song Zhiyuanâs pupils contracted as he looked at Nanny Gong: "Did she say this personally?"
He thought of what Song Ci had just said and felt a complex mixture of emotions, pressing his lips tightly and clenching his fists.
"Why would the Tai Furen think of such a thing?"
"She didnât say, but she once inquired." Nanny Gong said, "The Tai Furen often says one thing, that itâs lonely at the top. She hopes the Song Family grows into a towering tree rather than bloom like an epiphyllum. Within her means, she wants to provide an extra layer of protection for the Song Family."
Song Zhiyuan felt shaken, his eyes stinging. He was truly unfilial, for he hadnât realized how much his mother worried about the future of the Song Family.
"Nanny Gong, the Song Family hasnât reached that point yet. Try to persuade her not to worry too much, as itâs not good for her health." Song Zhiyuan said, "The Song Family still has me, and my second brother is also supporting it. She should just enjoy her blessings."
"I understand, the Tai Furen actually became more open-minded after her serious illness. Rest assured, Prime Minister."
Song Zhiyuan nodded, gave a few instructions, and let her return to her duties.
Nanny Gong thought for a moment and then called after him, "Prime Minister, no matter how the Tai Furenâs temperament changes or what she does, you must trust that all she does is for the good of the Song Family."
Song Zhiyuan raised his brow slightly; was it an illusion, or did Nanny Gongâs words carry a profound hint?
Nanny Gong watched him leave with a gentle smile. Only when he disappeared from sight did she sigh and turn to go back.
Song Zhiyuan returned to the main courtyard with a hint of worry, where Madam Song was arranging a list of supplements to be sent to their daughtersâ mansions. Seeing her husband return, she stood up.
"Whatâs the matter? You seem preoccupied."
Song Zhiyuan glanced at the list on the table and said, "Itâs nothing. Winter is coming, you should pay more attention to what mother needs. Donât skimp on whatâs necessary."
Madam Songâs expression stiffened slightly, thinking he was reproaching her. She forced a smile: "Rest assured, Iâd never dare to neglect it."
Seeing her misunderstanding, Song Zhiyuan frowned slightly, just about to speak when Madam Songâs maid dashed in, face ashen.
"Madam, Second Young Ladyâs maid Shu Mo has arrived, saying something happened with the Second Young Lady!"
Madam Song caught her breath, her heart pounding rapidly.