“I’m thinking of your well-being,” Shen Du said coldly, his eyes fixed intently on Zhu Yan, hoping she would understand his intentions.
Zhu Yan responded righteously, “Husband, don’t you often teach me that one should bear the responsibilities of their position? Now that we have a case right before us, you want me to stand aside. Do you think I can do that?”
Shen Du fell silent. Zhu Yan wasn’t wrong. He understood her mindset—whenever she encountered a case, she would spare no effort to investigate it thoroughly. But if she faced danger during the investigation, how could he protect her?
Seeing Shen Du’s silence, Zhu Yan thought he had compromised. She smiled and said, “I am Madam Shen. Assisting you in investigating cases is my duty. If I stand aside, what should I do if you encounter danger?”
Zhu Yan’s question left Shen Du speechless. Somehow, her words struck a chord in his heart. Was she genuinely concerned about him? Whether sincere or not, at this moment, this woman was worried about his safety. Thinking of this, Shen Du found himself unable to refuse her anymore.
“From now on, you must consult with me before making any decisions, especially regarding cases. You cannot act on your own.”
“I understand,” Zhu Yan quickly replied, adding solemnly, “As a married woman, I should prioritize my husband and consider his interests in everything. Are you satisfied now, husband?”
The final question made Shen Du frown. He had initially felt somewhat pleased, but then realized Zhu Yan was teasing him.
“Nonsense,” Shen Du responded flatly, though his expression showed no trace of gloom.
Zhu Yan wasn’t offended. She shrugged and turned to leave.
Two more peaceful days passed, and Shen Du removed the fetters from Zhu Yan’s feet. The previous incidents were behind them, and life returned to normal. Zhu Yan began dividing her time between the Ministry of Justice and the Zhu family, helping Shen Du investigate cases while caring for her family.
One day, as Zhu Yan was organizing case files at the Ministry of Justice, a yamen runner hurriedly reported that Duke Ying had arrived.
Zhu Yan frowned deeply. Princess Yong’an had been visiting the Ministry rather frequently lately. What could be her intention?
Before she could ponder further, the visitor had already reached the ministry’s entrance. Zhu Yan could only rise to welcome her.
“This official greets Duke Ying,” Zhu Yan said, bowing.
Princess Yong’an nodded amiably, gesturing for her to rise.
After they were seated with tea served, Zhu Yan bowed again and said, “The Ministry is not as comfortable as home. If there’s any lack of hospitality, I hope Duke Ying won’t take offense.”
“It’s quite alright,” Princess Yong’an replied, her gaze fixed on Zhu Yan. “It’s been a while since we last met. Has everything been well with Madam Minister?”
“Thank you for your concern, Duke Ying. This official has been well.”
“That’s good to hear.”
Princess Yong’an stood up, her tall figure exuding an air of superiority. “Madam Minister is indeed clever, capable of both investigating cases and managing household affairs. You’re truly a rare talented woman.”
Hearing the praise, Zhu Yan’s expression remained unchanged, fully aware that it was mere flattery.
“Duke Ying,” Zhu Yan bowed again, “the Ministry still has matters to attend to. May I ask the purpose of your visit?”
Seeing Zhu Yan’s direct approach, Princess Yong’an’s expression turned serious. “Madam Minister, please allow me to address you as Zhu Yan.”
Zhu Yan quickly nodded, realizing that Princess Yong’an must have something important to discuss.
“I’ve heard about the recent events in the Zhu family. Everyone in your household seems troubled by this matter. I have a strategy that could completely resolve the situation, but it requires your cooperation to implement.”
Hearing this, Zhu Yan’s frown deepened. She wasn’t sure which matter Princess Yong’an was referring to—was it about her third sister and Han Shiyuan, or her fourth sister’s broken engagement?
Seeing Zhu Yan’s silence, Princess Yong’an continued, “I’ve always admired talented individuals. You’re not only intelligent but also courageous. I value you highly, so… if you’re willing to take a position at the Judicial Review Office, I will personally petition the Empress to grant a marriage between your third sister and Han Shiyuan, fulfilling the wishes of this loving couple.”
Upon hearing this, Zhu Yan’s heart sank. She certainly wished for her third sister to spend her life with the man she loved, but Princess Yong’an’s condition, though seemingly reasonable, carried deeper implications. Zhu Yan was currently investigating Han Shiyuan’s case with Shen Du, and Princess Yong’an’s attempt to recruit her at this time was aimed at halting the investigation. However, the princess’s actions only suggested that the case held more unexpected truths than they had imagined.
Zhu Yan found herself in a dilemma. She wanted to uncover the truth, but she also wanted her third sister and brother-in-law to be together.
Instead of agreeing to Princess Yong’an’s proposal, Zhu Yan said she needed time to consider it. The princess, citing palace matters, left the Ministry of Justice.
“I hope Madam Minister can give me an answer soon. I’m quite busy, you know,” she said, having achieved her immediate goal. The outcome now depended on Zhu Yan’s decision.
As evening approached and Zhu Yan was preparing to leave, she was informed that Zhang Baohuan had also arrived.
It seemed to be a day for unexpected visitors.
Zhu Yan straightened her official robes and went to greet Zhang Baohuan, who waved away the formalities as she entered.
“There’s no need for such a ceremony, Minister Zhu. It’s getting late, and I hope you won’t mind my untimely visit.”
“This official wouldn’t dare. If Minister Zhang has something to say, please speak freely.”
Zhang Baohuan relaxed a bit, and after a moment of contemplation, she looked at Zhu Yan earnestly and said, “I don’t have any major business. I just wanted to ask… is Young Master Han doing well at your residence?”
Hearing Zhang Baohuan inquire about Han Shiyuan, Zhu Yan was puzzled. For a moment, she seemed to misinterpret the question, and the corner of her mouth twitched.
“He’s doing fine,” Zhu Yan replied, playing along. “Does Minister Zhang have any particular interest in my third sister’s husband?”
“Haha…” Zhang Baohuan let out a light laugh as if mocking Zhu Yan’s words. “What particular interest could I have? Minister Zhu, you’re overthinking. We’re just old acquaintances, and I’m simply asking after him. Please don’t read too much into it.”
“Of course, of course,” Zhu Yan responded awkwardly. “Minister Zhang’s concern for the people is commonplace. How could this official dare to assume otherwise?”
“Good that you understand,” Zhang Baohuan said coolly, then surveyed the ministry’s main hall. “The Ministry of Justice is quite modest. It must be tiring for Minister Zhu to persevere in her duties here. When I have the chance, I’ll certainly put in a good word for you with Her Majesty. Minister Zhu, you must serve the court well.”
“Thank you, Minister Zhang. This official will not disappoint you and will serve the court with utmost loyalty.”
“Very well,” Zhang Baohuan replied, then glanced at the sky outside. “It’s getting late. I need to return to the palace. You should head home soon too, Minister Zhu.”
“This official will see Minister Zhang off.”
Zhu Yan bowed and escorted Zhang Baohuan out, but her mind was filled with more questions than ever.
Zhang Baohuan’s unexpected visit to inquire about Han Shiyuan, coupled with her vague words, surely hinted at some hidden agenda.
Without dwelling on it further, Zhu Yan left the Ministry of Justice and headed for the Zhu residence.