The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

At present, the greatest pride in the eyes of the Duke is Qi Zhen. With the support of a capable wife’s family, his future looks promising. In Qi Zhen’s words, he has established a foothold in Jiangnan, and staying there long would serve as a strength for the family.

Therefore, the Duke highly favors this son. Now, as he offers a way out, he fulfills his previous words about not wishing to see brothers at odds. Whether or not it’s genuine, at least he shows it on the surface.

The Duke stepped down elegantly, lifted his robe embroidered with a tiger’s head, and sat grandly on the Taishi Chair, glaring at Qi Rui with eagle-like eyes.

"This time, thanks to your third brother speaking on your behalf, I’ll let this one slide. Now that you’re back, don’t idle away like before. You may not excel in reading, so stay by Steward Qi and help manage some housekeeping affairs. It’s unacceptable to reach thirty and still achieve nothing, living life aimlessly."

Qi Rui was somewhat pleasantly surprised and said, "Father, are you willing to let me manage the household affairs?"

Madam Qi and Little Mrs. Liao were also somewhat pleasantly surprised.

The Duke snorted, "You’re neither adept at academics nor martial arts. If you can’t manage household affairs, what else can you do? The year-end is approaching. Begin by managing the inventory of several estates to see your capability. If it’s satisfactory, we’ll discuss further responsibilities."

Qi Rui immediately pledged, "Rest assured, Father, I will not disappoint you."

The Duke narrowed his eyes and said, "I hope so. Your third brother climbed to where he is now through his own efforts. Although there was family assistance in the past, he has stood his ground with his own skills over the years. Now he’s secured a good future, and even with help, he still has a genuine ability."

Although Qi Rui was smiling, inwardly he was disdainful, thinking that the third brother simply got lucky with a powerful wife’s family and a good father-in-law, unlike himself.

Sensing her husband’s subtle emotion, Little Mrs. Liao’s smile froze at the corners of her mouth, twisting her handkerchief.

The Duke appeared unaware of the subtle expressions of the second couple, continuing, "I am not yet so old as to be blind. In this family, I know clearly who is capable and what everyone’s personality is. I observe the open and hidden struggles. I don’t want to mention past events, but if anyone still wishes to create unrest, don’t blame me for being ruthless; they can live quietly in the old house."

As he spoke, he cast an intentionally incidental glance at Little Mrs. Liao, whose face turned pale.

"You may leave now." The Duke waved his hand.

The younger ones left, leaving only the Duke and Madam Qi in the room.

Madam Qi gently offered a cup of tea, gently saying, "You are willing to give the second one a chance, and he will surely cherish it."

The Duke glanced at her and said indifferently, "I’m willing to give all my sons a chance. Whoever has ability will have a say. For the inheritance of this Duke Mansion, I will only focus on nurturing those with capability."

Madam Qi’s pupils slightly contracted, "What do you mean, Lord?"

"Since the second one has returned, relinquish the complete management of domestic affairs to Mrs. Lu. Educate Zhang’er well. Look at him; he stammers even when speaking to me, what kind of Young Master of the Duke Mansion does that make him?" The Duke said with a frown of disapproval.

Madam Qi was momentarily dazed by his statement about completely handing over the household management to Mrs. Lu and did not realize.

"Moreover, the third one’s son, Jin, was born, and although the confinement period is nearly over, we should send extra medicinal supplements to the Prime Minister’s Mansion. I have already discussed this with them; the confinement will be grandly celebrated in the mansion. It’s a gesture of farewell for their family, so Mrs. Lu should arrange it well. The third son has a twofold cause for celebration this time; let’s avoid any mishaps that could cause embarrassment." The Duke warned.