Chapter 1088: Engagement Breaking Off

Chapter 1088: Engagement Breaking Off
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
That unfortunate event left Auntie Ling feeling powerless to dissuade Third Madame Qiao any further, so she reluctantly obeyed the order.
Third Madame Qiao, elegantly dressed, consumed a bowl of red date, snow fungus, and lotus seed soup before venturing out with Auntie Ling and Yuzan. Their destination was the Ning Family residence.
Her purpose there was to call off the engagement with the Ning Family.
Since the Ning Family would no longer be her future in-laws, there was no need for formalities. After some casual conversation, Third Madame Qiao explained her intention to retrieve the birthdate note.
Unbeknownst to her, Third Old Master had entrusted the task of arranging Qiao Kou’s marriage to the two Sister-in-laws due to her illness. Had she been aware of this, she would never have agreed to the engagement. She had already made a promise to someone else regarding Qiao Kou’s marriage, and they were about to exchange birthdate notes. It would be improper for one daughter to make promises to two families simultaneously. She expressed deep regret for the situation.
Furthermore, Qiao Kou, being the daughter of a concubine, received limited education from her mother at a young age. She lacked knowledge of zither, chess, calligraphy, painting, and household management. Her social skills were lacking, and she felt unworthy of Young Master Ning.
Third Madame Ning’s expression turned grim. After exchanging a few polite words, she promptly returned Qiao Kou’s birthdate note to Third Madame Qiao without hesitation.
Upon learning of this development, Ning Liufang grew irritated. He professed his sincere affection for Qiao Kou and pleaded with his mother to allow the marriage.
Third Madame Ning snapped, “It’s impossible! If it weren’t for the unfortunate incident, we would still need to explain ourselves to the Qiao Family. Do you think I would willingly accept a concubine’s daughter as my daughter-in-law? Her biological mother herself requested the return of the birthdate note, and I can’t wait to comply. Her biological mother stated that she is useless, and if we were to proceed with the marriage, we would become a laughingstock!”
The idea of the Ning Family marrying a concubine’s daughter, openly criticized by her biological mother, was utterly humiliating.
Ning Liufang was left speechless.
He had developed genuine feelings for Qiao Kou, but he was unwilling to sever ties with his family over her. Alternatively, he could simply let the matter go.
Ultimately, he prioritized maintaining his reputation.
Third Madame Qiao informed her two Sister-in-laws about the situation with the birthdate notes, instructing them to cease their efforts. She then tasked Auntie Ling with conveying the news to Third Old Master, Qiao Kou, and Concubine Du.
Qiao Kou and Concubine Du were taken aback by Third Madame Qiao’s actions. Their hearts sank with despair.
Enraged, Third Old Master stormed up to Third Madame Qiao and slapped her across the face. Pointing a trembling finger at her, he uttered not a single word.
His anger was so overwhelming that he couldn’t even muster a curse.
Remaining composed, Third Madame Qiao sneered. “Wei has suffered greatly, yet Old Master does nothing to console or defend her. Instead, he confines her and blames me. That wretched Qiao Kou stole Wei’s fiancé. Old Master, do you really think I will fulfill her desires? Dream on!”
“You’re being unreasonable! Kou is also a victim! She is innocent! How can you blame her?”
“Such claims are nothing but foolish lies! I won’t believe a word of it!”
“If you don’t believe me, then show me the evidence, and I will believe you!”
“And even if they provide evidence, will the marriage still be for Wei?”
Unable to find words, Third Old Master glared at Third Madame Qiao.
His love for her was shattered.
That woman was his wife! She was his beloved wife!
He had once been overwhelmed with emotions and considered himself fortunate to be married to such a virtuous woman. She had helped him resolve numerous troubles and spared him countless headaches in the province.