Doted By The Regent King

Chapter 1691 - 1629: No Regrets

Madam Zhou was unable to move easily, so she leaned against the couch, with several large welcoming pillows propped behind her and needed someone to support her to stay seated.

"Old sir, please forgive my lack of manners for not being able to rise to express my gratitude to you." With a smile at the corner of her mouth, Madam Zhou addressed Old Mr. Meng: "Wufu is a fortunate child to have you as her mentor. From now on, I entrust her to your care, sir."

Listening to her weak voice, Old Mr. Meng felt a pang of sorrow and his lips moved: "You, you’re clearly about to enjoy happiness, how come... sigh."

Madam Zhou gently caressed her belly and said, "My blessings are not enough."

Old Mr. Meng glanced at her abdomen, knowing she had lost all vitality because of the child—difficult childbirth was something few women could withstand. That she could sustain herself until now was due to the combined efforts of several physicians and her own determination.

Once that breath is exhausted, she will...

Old Mr. Meng, unable to bear it, turned away.

Standing beside, Hua Wushuang also felt heartache, recalling the day his mother passed away. Looking at Madam Zhou, her ties with the Mei Family seemed faintly connected but at least there was Wufu.

"The bride is coming."

Outside, Ah Jiu grasped Wufu’s hand firmly and said, "Do not fear, you have me."

Wufu looked at him, tears streaming down.

Ah Jiu felt deep compassion.

There was no music, few guests bearing witness, no wedding matron — only the auspicious color red, with both families’ seniors, subordinates, and servants. Everyone squeezed into a small room, or stood before windows outside, witnessing this sorrowful wedding ceremony.

Madam Zhou watched the two move forward, tears in her eyes, a smile on her lips.

"First bow to Heaven and Earth."

The one presiding over the ceremony was an officer from the Ministry of Rites who stayed behind in Changan. Overriding the Empress and Emperor of Beiyan, Prince Jin made the decision to marry on his own. The officer, having served many years, found this action truly perplexing and unprecedented.

But since Prince Jin insisted and took full responsibility, he had no option but to proceed despite reluctance.

"Second bow to the High Elders."

Madam Zhou watched as the two bowed in unison, flowing tears of joy, she reached out a hand to wipe them away, saying "good" several times. She had no regrets.

"Husband and Wife bow to each other."

The couple bowed to each other, gazing at each other with sadness as well as a trace of gratitude and consolation.

"Ceremony complete."

Someone then served tea, and Wufu handed a cup to Madam Zhou: "Mother, please have tea!"

Madam Zhou extended her hand, everyone saw that it trembled uncontrollably, and Qiu Xiang held back tears and sought to assist her.

"No need, I must do this myself." Madam Zhou’s trembling hands clinked the teacup, spilling a little tea, yet she managed to bring it to her lips for a sip, smiling: "It’s very sweet, the sweetest tea I’ve had in my life."

Qiu Xiang hurried to take it from her, Madam Zhou released her grip, gasping heavily.

Immediately after, Ah Jiu presented tea, and Madam Zhou took a sip. With just two cups of tea, her strength was almost entirely spent. Looking at Ah Jiu, she said: "Ah Jiu, today I leave Wufu in your hands; do not fail her. Otherwise, even in the ground, I will not forgive you."

Everyone felt a sting in their noses.

"I, Jhin Mo, swear that if I fail Wufu, may I be struck by Five Thunders and be doomed to become the Nine Livestock for eternity." Ah Jiu immediately raised his hands and vowed.

Madam Zhou breathed a long sigh, smiling: "Good. Mother wishes you lasting harmony, a house full of children and grandchildren, happiness, and health."