Mrs. Gu Sr. did not stop there and voiced her own concerns.

"Eldest son said in front of me today that he would go to the Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion and cancel the engagement. Although he did not disagree with me later, I know that he might handle it tomorrow. When dawn breaks, you should help me by going to Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion and bringing his daughter here, saying that I want her to accompany me. Also, send a message to the East Mansion in the morning and have Sister Ning come here to keep me company." Mrs. Gu Sr. was left with no choice.

Only this way can we prevent my son from canceling the marriage at Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion.

Nanny Chi hesitated, "What if the Marquis still goes to the Vice Minister’s Mansion?"

If the mother and son become estranged over this, it wouldn’t be good.

Nanny Chang also advised, "There is no need for haste, Madam, the Marquis can be persuaded. Currently, the girl just recognized Prince Shou. If Prince Shou hears about this and becomes angry with the Marquis, it would be difficult for the Marquis to explain."

"In the eyes of outsiders, Prince Shou ceased to exist long ago. The Holy Emperor declared early on that Prince Shou was gone; he wouldn’t mention that Prince Shou was alive now. Do not worry about this. Speaking of Eldest Son, he marries into two families. The Marquis Mansion marrying a concubine does not affect the East Mansion; each lives their own life behind closed doors. When Sister Ning married in, she already knew Eldest Son was marrying into two houses, so there’s no need for doubt on that matter." Mrs. Gu Sr. refused to be swayed, "It’s decided, tomorrow, you will go, one to Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion, and the other to the East Mansion."

The two knew that further persuasion was useless, so they agreed and waited for Mrs. Gu Sr. to rest.

Early the next morning, Nanny Chi went to the Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion, and Nanny Chang went to the East Mansion. Gu Yifeng and Lin Youning had just gotten up, and hearing that Nanny Chang arrived, Lin Youning knew there was business, so she let her in directly.

Since that incident, Lin Youning seldom spoke with Nanny Chang, let alone have her visit.

After Nanny Chang came in, she saw the Marquis at the side being attended to for washing up and didn’t look long. She bowed her head slightly, "Madam invited the girl from Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion to visit today, and sent me to inform Madam to come and keep company."

Lin Youning paused, then laughed, "I understand, thank you for making the trip, Nanny."

Nanny Chang mentioned that Madam couldn’t be without company, and left promptly.

When Nanny Chang delivered the message, Gu Yifeng was present, naturally hearing it. Both of them understood the situation, and upon hearing Nanny Chang’s words, they knew Madam’s intention.

Hailan, who served in the room, did not understand. She didn’t expect the legitimate daughter from Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion to catch Madam’s attention. Zhang Xian had a quarrel with the Second Girl, yet she could come to the mansion. This surprised Hailan.

After breakfast, Gu Yifeng didn’t go to the study but sat down to talk with Lin Youning. As Hailan noticed this, she led the servants out of the room, "Mother sent someone over early. Presumably, Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion also sent someone early."

Gu Yifeng’s face did not show ease, looking rather tired. Lin Youning laughed, "Big Brother doesn’t need to worry about me. I’m fine. Auntie has already sent a message; I should go over."

She was relieved that Auntie didn’t let her persuade Big Brother.

Gu Yifeng stood up, "I’ll go with you."

Lin Youning laughed, "Won’t Auntie think I’m asking your support?"

"Probably." Gu Yifeng nodded seriously.

His serious look amused Lin Youning, who called Hailan to help her change clothes. The two then headed to the Marquis Mansion. But before leaving the East Mansion, Zhang Wu came in, greeted them both, "Marquis, Madam, Uncle is here," Zhao Wu paused, "Uncle has someone with him."

Lin Youning’s eyes lit up as she glanced at Big Brother beside her. Gu Yifeng nodded at her, which quickened Lin Youning’s pace towards the front yard, with Gu Yifeng trailing behind and gently reminding, "Slow down."

Lin Youning didn’t slow down but sped up.

Gu Yifeng had to catch up with big steps. While Zhao Wu didn’t follow the Marquis out, he learned from Li Si about the Marquis locating Prince Shou.

Seeing Uncle arrive with someone and Madam in a hurry, Zhao Wu guessed the person’s identity.

As Zhang Wu followed, he saw Madam already embracing the unfamiliar middle-aged man, surprising Zhao Wu. Gu Yifeng’s brow furrowed.

He rushed forward, pulling Sister Ning aside, saying, "You’re pregnant now, yet careless; if you strain, Prince worries for you."

Lin Youning was too thrilled seeing her father, "I’m not a child; I’m simply excited Father is here."

She hadn’t expected to see Father this soon.

"Since Prince is here, it’s inappropriate to go over there." Gu Yifeng called Zhao Wu over, under Zhao Housheng and Prince Shou’s puzzled looks, instructing Zhao Wu, "Inform Madam that Madam cannot entertain Vice Minister Zhang’s Mansion’s daughter as Prince is visiting."

Zhao Wu responded and withdrew.

Lin Youning smiled, guessing Big Brother’s intention. Just like their talk last night, he indeed used those methods.

Lin Youning was naturally delighted, though Auntie might be displeased.

Zhao Housheng and Prince Shou noticed something was amiss but did not inquire further, following Gu Yifeng to the courtyard, with Lin Youning tagging along.

When Mrs. Gu Sr. received this message, she smiled and acknowledged it. But once Zhao Wu left, her smile faded immediately, "Eldest Son is opposing me; how can I feel at ease?"

Having failed with the second, Mrs. Gu Sr. dared not contemplate problems with the eldest.

Nanny Chang advised, "Madam shouldn’t overthink."

Mrs. Gu Sr. shook her head, "This isn’t about wanting conflict; Eldest Son can’t be allowed to mess around. Balance must be maintained; once Prince Shou leaves tonight, send a message for Marquis to return; tell him I have business."