Chapter 1547: Shocked by Her Scheming Brother

Song Zi sincerely asked Madam to be the main guest for her eldest daughter’s coming-of-age ceremony, which was indeed a good thing. Madam did not decline and readily agreed, considering that the sister-in-law was quite adept and not annoying; giving her this honor was no harm.

But when this news reached Mrs. Lu’s ears, it wasn’t perceived the same way.

They are both aunts, and yet she is a close relative. Song Zi didn’t consider her, ultimately because her status wasn’t high enough.

See, this is how it is with people: those with poor backgrounds and low status simply don’t get recognized.

This matter made Mrs. Lu all the more concerned about Song Ruwei’s future marriage prospects. If Wei’er doesn’t want to follow the same old path, she needs to marry well.

Song Zi was unaware of Mrs. Lu’s inner complaints. Naturally, even if she knew, she would have paid it no mind. Of course, the more distinguished and virtuous the person invited to preside over a girl’s coming-of-age ceremony, the better.

If she ignored Madam and instead invited her sister-in-law, it would be laughable and could create a rift with Madam, a loss that wasn’t worth having.

What, self-interest?

Who doesn’t have self-interest? Which mother doesn’t truly care for her daughter and want the best for her?

If it were Mrs. Lu, she would do the same.

Unaware of her sister-in-law’s complaints, Song Zi was now on guard as she listened to her brother’s sudden concern.

This brother, who had previously caused trouble for his sister, was now concerned about his niece’s age and marriage prospects, sending a chill down her spine.

Song Zi, without showing her feelings, said, "Zhilan is only ten years old now, and she’ll be eleven after the New Year. Why is brother bringing up her marriage? We’re not in a hurry."

Song Zhiqing glanced at her and said, "In the past, you and your husband hurriedly arranged Zhihui’s marriage without giving it much thought, and refused to call it off when advised. I, as the uncle, had nothing more to say then. But as for Zhilan, you must not make a hasty decision."

Song Zi’s temples throbbed, and she laughed sarcastically, "My husband and I are quite shallow. We are content as long as we find a respectable family with good character as the in-laws, and we wouldn’t dare to covet anything beyond reach, only to meet trouble instead of delicacies."

Listening, Song Zhiqing was frustrated and retorted, "Speak if you must, but there’s no need for veiled barbs."

Song Zi stood up and curtsied, "Little sister wouldn’t dare."

Song Zhiqing snorted and said, annoyed, "I’m only concerned for you and your nieces and nephews. If the marriage is well-chosen, not only will the daughters be blessed, but Ming Hui will also gain support, won’t he?"

"Hearing this from you, it seems you think our Lin Family isn’t competent enough and can’t help you rise higher."

"You!" Song Zhiqing’s face darkened, "Do you have to speak to me like this? I am your own brother."

Song Zi pouted, "It’s you, Third Brother, who subtly looks down on us."

"You, forget it!" Song Zhiqing waved his sleeve, lowering his voice, "I’m serious with you. Zhilan’s age is just right. I see she looks even more charming than her sister did. Raise her well."

Song Zi’s face turned green. What did that mean? Was she supposed to have Zhilan use her looks to serve others in the future?

"Zi, the Crown Prince has been chosen, but the Crown Princess Consort and the four consort positions have not yet been decided. In the future, the Emperor and the Empress will surely choose a consort for the Crown Prince. Zhilan’s age is just right. If you are willing, prepare yourselves. If she’s selected, wouldn’t it be an immense fortune?"

Song Zi was utterly shocked, standing up abruptly and glaring at Song Zhiqing.

She truly couldn’t believe it, that her own brother dared to have ambitions about the Heavenly Family!