RMBLCUCS – Chapter 19: Father-in-Law Misunderstands His Son-in-Law
The Xin family’s residence in the capital was only a temporary dwelling. It had not been well-maintained over the years and lacked grandeur, yet Xin An liked it. After the downfall of the Marquis’ household in her previous life, this place had been her refuge, shielding her from the storm.
“I’ll have people come and tidy up the place, plant some flowers, and add a few servants to keep it clean,” she said, already making plans.
Seeing her daughter still in the mood to think about such things, Madame Xin felt truly relieved. “Your husband treats you well, doesn’t he?”
Xin An replied nonchalantly, “He’s… alright.”
Inside the house, she and Tang Mo respectfully bowed to Xin Kuan. When Xin Kuan saw Tang Mo, however, his expression remained displeased. Tang Mo’s reputation outside wasn’t exactly stellar.
Tang Mo cast a pleading look at Xin An, hoping she would speak on his behalf. She ignored him, looping her arm around her mother’s and heading straight to the backyard—there was much to talk about.
The mother and daughter spoke in hushed tones for a while. Upon learning that Xin An and Tang Mo had not consummated their marriage, Madame Xin did not urge her to conceive quickly to secure her position. She had always believed that if a man did not truly care for you, even bearing ten children wouldn’t change his heart.
“I don’t think he’s too bad,” Madame Xin said after some thought. “Why not give him a chance? Maybe it’ll turn out to be a good match.”
“I understand.”
Xin An took a sip of tea and then placed the cup down, her expression turning serious. “Mother, I know it’s not exactly joyous talk for a homecoming visit, but you need to tell Father—the Marquis of Wei Yuan’s household should not be trusted. Just because I am now married into their family doesn’t mean Father should offer them unwavering support. He must leave himself a way out.”
She couldn’t reveal too much, but Tang Gang was not a trustworthy man. “To put it plainly, what real power does the Marquis’ household have in court? The little reputation they still have comes from the old marquis’ military achievements. Ever since the family abandoned the military path in favor of civil service, they’ve done nothing of significance. Even though Tang Rong has a good public image, climbing the ranks in court requires more than a good reputation—it takes money and influence.”
She scoffed, “Tang Gang and Tang Rong are not men who repay kindness. If we help Tang Rong rise, what benefit will that bring me?”
Madame Xin frowned, “Your father mentioned the same concerns last night. He was worried this would put you in a difficult position.”
Xin An chuckled. “What’s there to be troubled about? My husband is not the favored eldest son—any benefits will go to Tang Rong first. No matter what happens, no one will blame me.”
“The Marquis’ household is nearly drained of resources. Just yesterday, my mother-in-law wanted to give me two thousand taels from her own private savings.”
Madame Xin’s heart clenched with regret. “We should never have let you stay in the Marquis’ household.”
Xin Huan joined the conversation, “Sis, what should we do now?”
“Use the Tang family’s name while we can, but always keep an escape plan. We mustn’t tie ourselves to just one tree.”
Xin Huan nodded eagerly. “Sis, explain it all—I’ll follow your lead.”
Xin An tapped his forehead lightly, “You’re already a grown man—are you using your brain for decoration?”
“You’re the smart one!” Xin Huan grinned, rubbing his forehead. “I’ve always listened to you, and I always will.”
A rare warmth spread through Xin An’s heart. This time, she would protect her foolish little brother.
Meanwhile, in the Front Courtyard…
Tang Mo sat awkwardly in front of Xin Kuan, feeling as if he could dig a hole through the floor with his foot. Xin Kuan remained silent, calmly sipping his tea. After what felt like an eternity, Tang Mo finally gathered the courage to speak.
“I heard Father-in-law will be returning to Huai Jiang soon?”
“Mm.”
Another painful silence followed.
Tang Mo let out a forced laugh. “When will Father-in-law visit the capital again?”
“When you start mistreating my daughter.”
Tang Mo: “…”
“Father-in-law must be joking,” Tang Mo quickly said. “I may be a bit of a troublemaker, but I would never mistreat my own wife.”
Xin Kuan’s gaze was piercing, as if he could see straight through him. “Good. I don’t know if all the rumors about you are true, but now that you’re married, you must behave differently.”
He tapped the wooden chest beside him. “This is for you. As long as you treat Xin An well and keep her comfortable, this won’t be the last of it. If you ever see something expensive you like, don’t bother fighting for it—just buy it.”
Tang Mo leaned forward curiously, only to see a chest full of silver.
For a moment, he was speechless.
His first thought? Damn you, Tang Rong. You ruined my reputation so badly that even my father-in-law thinks I’m a greedy little schemer!
“…Father-in-law, I believe you have misunderstood me.”
Xin Kuan raised an eyebrow. “You never fought with your brother over things?”
“…I did.”
Xin Kuan took another sip of tea. “Then what’s the problem?”
Tang Mo opened his mouth but had no comeback. How could he argue with that?
Xin Kuan cut off any further protests. “From now on, unless it’s something absolutely necessary, don’t fight over it. It’s just money.”
Damn. Having a wealthy father-in-law really boosted one’s confidence. Tang Mo suddenly felt rather smug.
In his previous life, Tang Rong enjoyed the full support of the Xin family. The Tao family, in contrast, had barely lifted a finger to help him, constantly making excessive demands instead. Back then, he had seethed with jealousy, unable to sleep at night.
But now? Now, the favor had shifted to him.
Tang Mo sat up straighter. “Many thanks, Father-in-law.”
He solemnly vowed, “Rest assured, I will always cherish and respect my wife. She will always come first.”
Xin Kuan’s stern expression softened just a little. “As long as you understand.”
Later That Evening
When Xin An learned about her father’s ‘brilliant’ strategy, she forced a polite but awkward smile.
She couldn’t believe it. Her father—one of the most influential salt merchants, a man who had dealt with high-ranking officials all his life—had come up with something so childish.
“You’re under my control now, dear wife,” Tang Mo whispered smugly in her ear.
Xin An’s dry laughter was almost a cough. “Just remember—half of whatever you get, you hand over to me. I decide how well you live.”
“Deal.”
At that moment, Tang Mo was thrilled. He clung to his father-in-law’s good graces like a lifeline, eagerly calling him “Father-in-law” at every opportunity. He was equally warm toward Madame Xin, promising to take Xin Huan out the next day. When Xin An casually mentioned needing tonics, he immediately promised to buy them first thing in the morning.
This level of enthusiasm finally convinced Xin Kuan that maybe his daughter had married someone decent after all.
Returning to the Marquis’ Residence
By sunset, it was time for Xin An and Tang Mo to return to the Marquis of Wei Yuan’s household. The Xin family had showered them with gifts—so much so that their return trip required an extra carriage.
Just as they arrived at the Marquis’ gates, Tang Rong and Tao Yiran also returned from their visit to the Tao family.
Tang Rong’s gaze swept over the mountain of gifts in their carriages. His eyes narrowed.
Just as he was about to lead Tao Yiran inside, Tang Mo seized the opportunity and strolled over with a cheerful grin.
“Big Brother, Sister-in-law, you’re back?
“…Apologies, Father-in-law and Mother-in-law sent us off with so many gifts that we blocked the entrance.”