Chapter 2017: Xiao Shi's Intention to Divorce

Chapter 2017: Xiao Shi's Intention to Divorce

Xiao Shi responded with a soft ''Hmm.'' She said, ''He came a few days ago. He mentioned that things in the capital have more or less been resolved now. My parents are fine, and the uncle who once plotted against us has had his head chopped off. It's time for me to return.'

Shu Yu was well aware of these events. Over the past half year, order had been restored in the capital.

During the rebellion led by the Second and Third Princes, Xiao Shi, her parents, and even her cooperation with the South Mansion had played crucial roles in providing valuable information and misleading the Xiao family members. They were not guilty and even deserved recognition for their contributions. Shu Yu believed that the Emperor would reward them accordingly.

However, as members of the Xiao family, they were bound to face unfavorable rumors and whispers behind their backs.

Nevertheless, they could finally reunite as a family.

"When are you leaving?" Shu Yu inquired.

Xiao Ruojun sighed lightly and replied, "Tomorrow."

"So soon?" Shu Yu was surprised.

"Yes, I've been to Dongqing Temple before, and I bid farewell to Daoist Tongqiu. I came to the Lu family today to express my gratitude for taking care of me during this long period. Unfortunately, you weren't here, and I wasn't sure when you'd return. I had to ask your grandmother to convey my thanks. Luckily, we crossed paths. Otherwise, I would have been very regretful."

Shu Yu replied, "No need to feel regretful. In any case, I'm likely going to the capital next year as Yun Zheng participates in the Spring Examinations. When that happens, I'll visit the Xiao family to meet you and catch up."

However, when she said this, Xiao Shi suddenly fell silent.

Shu Yu noticed something was amiss with her expression and furrowed her brows slightly. "What's wrong?"

Xiao Ruojun forced a smile, her face showing amusement, but her eyes were devoid of humor.

She spoke softly, "I might not be in the capital next year."

Shu Yu asked, "Why not?"

This time, Xiao Shi smile seemed elusive, and her face showed a complex expression. After a moment of silence, she took a deep breath and continued, "After I return, I plan to ask my husband for a divorce. Afterward, I intend to take my parents away from the capital and start a new life elsewhere."

Shu Yu was taken aback. "A divorce? You want to divorce from Lord Xiang?"

"Yes," Xiao Ruojun confirmed. "You know, this marriage was originally something I forced. I naively believed that staying by his side and being persistent would eventually make him fall in love with me. At that time, my thoughts were truly naive. I even thought about causing trouble for you because of his peculiar attitude toward you."

Looking back now, Xiao Shi found herself quite despicable.

"But after going through so much and almost losing my life, I have come to my senses. During the time I lived in the rear courtyard of Dongqing Temple, I heard the chanting of sutras every day, had simple meals, and chatted with the Daoist nuns. I helped them with gardening, watering plants, and even catching insects in my free time. I read books and wrote. Later, when I stayed at the village, I maintained these habits. Over this long period, my mindset has become much more peaceful, and I've come to terms with many things."

Shu Yu could see that the current Xiao Shi was vastly different from when they first met.

However, divorce?

Shu Yu expressed her concern, "I don't think Lord Xiang will agree to that." Even if Lord Xiang did not love Xiao Shi, once he took someone into his home, he would be responsible for her for the rest of her life.

Especially now, with the Xiao family's downfall, Lord Xiang would be less likely to abandon her during such a time."