but to build a foundation of that size, you'd need at least 10,000 taels to get started."Fang Jinshi's planned mountain lodge wouldn't have many living quarters. Instead, it would primarily consist of...Upon hearing this, Mu couldn't help but burst into laughter.

"So, it seems Palace Master is lost."

This person is so dumb.

"I'll have someone take you out. This is the rear garden of Jing Wangfu, it's not appropriate for Lord Gong to stay here."

Upon hearing that this was actually the backyard of Jing Wangfu, Gong Yu's expression immediately panicked. He was afraid that Mu would misunderstand him and think he was a scoundrel or something.

He hurriedly bowed and apologized, "Madam Mu, please forgive me. I truly didn't know this place was the rear garden of the Royal Manor. It was certainly not intentional."

"I, I am most certainly not a frivolous person."

He kept explaining, and the more he explained, the more he stuttered, the more he spoke, the more confused he became. At first, Mu merely felt helpless. She had met this palace official a few times before, and he had even saved her and her two grandsons. How could she not know Palace Yu's character

"My Lord, please don't panic. I truly didn't think you were intentionally trespassing."

"You said you were lost, and I believe you."

"Don't be so nervous, why don't I pour you a cup of tea You're stammering and sweating so much."

Gong Yu panicked and broke out in a sweat. Seeing Mu Shi's understanding, his tense mood eased considerably.

"Mrs. Mu, there is no need for tea. Just send someone to lead the way for me."

Mu Yunhe had already poured the tea and offered it to him. Gong Yu saw this and couldn't refuse such a kind gesture, and he didn't want to refuse either.

Then, with the utmost care and restraint, I accepted this cup of tea.

Sōhei, who was hiding behind a tree and saw this scene, clenched his fist tightly. He couldn't help himself, stepping on a twig with his foot and making a noise.

"What sound"

Mu Yunhe and Gong Yu also heard it, and at the same time turned their heads to look in the direction of the sound.

Zhongpingchuan had a chance to dodge and avoid being discovered, but for some reason, his feet were rooted to the spot, not moving an inch. He deliberately let the two people see him.

He was curious to see what kind of reaction Mu Yunhe would have upon seeing him.

"How is it you What brings you here" Mu Yunhe's reaction was to frown. The faint smile on her face just moments ago vanished, replaced with indifference and alertness the moment she saw him.

He smiled so gently at Gong Yu, but turned cold when he saw him

And the wariness in her eyes, during a marital encounter with Mu Yunhe, she was actually wary of him

Zhong Pingchuan strode over, knowing that the best thing to do at this time was to turn and leave, but he couldn't control his actions.

He started with the tone of a husband questioning his wife.

When did you meet Lord Gong

"What were you just doing"

"This is the Jingshi Palace, Mu Yunhe, you are too unrestrained. Don't you know your own position You're much older than others. Let the children see this, will you even have a face left"

Mu Yunhe didn't expect Zong Pingchuan to say these words as soon as he came up. She was originally just a little surprised to see him in the backyard of the prince's mansion.

I thought he was also lost, just like Master Gōng.

But unexpectedly, as soon as he opened his mouth, he started to slander her with blood-curdling lies.

"Master Zong, please be careful with your words! Madam Mu is virtuous and upright. Don't slander her anymore!"

Gong Yu was still holding him, his expression of nervous seriousness mixed with anger like a spark igniting Zong Pingchuan's simmering rage.

"She is my wife, and our marital affairs are none of your concern, you lowly sixth-rank official!"

"You, come with me!"

He didn't say a word, and he shoved past Gong Yu to grab Mu Yunhe's wrist, trying to take her away by force.

The maidservants in the manor were initially hesitant to approach, as these two individuals were officials from the imperial court. They dared not act presumptuously. However, the situation gradually became increasingly out of hand. One maid hurriedly ran back to the main courtyard to report to the lord, while the other rushed to Mu's side, wanting to pull her back but hesitated.

Palace Elm originally adhered to rules and regulations, not daring to overstep even a fraction. He was gentle in nature and almost never argued with others.

But when he saw Zong Pingchuan attacking Mu's family without hesitation, he rushed forward.

"Master Zong is the one who has no right to interfere in my and Madam Mu's affairs."

"Didn't you already sign and seal her divorce papers Master Zong should think more about the legitimate wife in his front courtyard, the daughter of the prime minister! She is your rightful wife now!"

"If she knew what Lord Zong was saying and doing now, who knows what she would think!"

As soon as Zong Pingchuan heard Gong Yu mention Yuan Xiangli, his mind instantly cleared up and he unconsciously relaxed his grip.

Gong Yu seized the opportunity and pulled Mu Shi into his arms, whispering an apologetic phrase before letting go. He then shielded Mu Shi behind him.

He stood, his slender frame a shield against Zong Pingchuan's furious gaze.

Mu clutched her rapidly beating heart, trying to calm it down. She wasn't sure if she was scared or what else had happened.machache and insisted on stopping the carriage to use the restroom. This delay caused Fang Jinshiu's carriage to disappear from sight.Fortunately, it was snowing now, and they wouldn't lose their way...