Chapter 1263: Request
Zhao Mu was wealthy, but his wealth was his alone. He possessed a selfish disposition, offering little benefit to the clan. In contrast, Zhao Shu was far less generous than Zhao Shu!
Their haul exceeded 10,000 liang, with each of them potentially receiving 1,000 to 2,000 liang, alongside two valuable antiques for emergencies. With prudent management, this windfall could secure the family’s well-being for decades.
Returning home, Zhao Shu wore a contented smile.
That evening, they selected one-third of the treasures and brought 30,000 liang to visit Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan at the hostel.
“Please accept these humble offerings, Officer Shao and Madame Shao!” Zhao Shu said, eager yet worried about their response. “Officer Shao, Madame Shao, I insist, consider these gifts a token of our gratitude!”
Qiao Xuan couldn’t help but chuckle. “Young Master Zhao, since you acquired these freely, we won’t stand in your way.”
“Madame Shao, please, do not feel obligated,” insisted Zhao Shu, known for his kind-heartedness, refusing to take back the gifts. “Had it not been for Madame Shao’s ingenious plan, we might have left empty-handed. We couldn’t have extracted a piece of their wealth before departing. Furthermore, there is another matter I would appreciate your assistance with…”
Qiao Xuan gracefully accepted Zhao Shu’s offer, exchanging glances with Shao Yunduan, who nodded approvingly while accepting the money. “Young Master Zhao, we are partners in business, so there’s no need to mention it.”
Zhao Shu sighed deeply. “I want my mother to divorce Zhao Mu, but I fear he won’t agree easily. Still, I wish to attempt it. My mother and I would rather be interred with my grandparents than have any ties to Zhao Mu.”
He added with a touch of bitterness, “In truth, if I had a choice, I’d prefer to leave the Zhao Family and join the Zheng Family, but that’s not feasible.”
Understanding the situation, Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan exchanged knowing glances.
Changing his surname for no reason was out of the question; the Zhao Family would never allow it.
Furthermore, even if he were to depart from the Zhao Family, the Zheng Family might not readily accept him. If they did, they would likely demand substantial benefits, potentially even hounding him for more than he could bear.
Leaving Zhao Mu was already the best possible outcome for him, considering the circumstances.
It appeared that securing a divorce for Ms. Zheng would prove to be a formidable challenge.
Zhao Shu mustered a strained smile. “I recognize that my request is quite audacious, and the path ahead is far from easy. If Officer Shao and Madame Shao happen to have any insightful suggestions, I would greatly appreciate them. If not, we can let it rest.”
Qiao Xuan offered him a sympathetic glance.
The constraints of ancient customs were beyond their control.
After some contemplation, Shao Yunduan chuckled. “Let’s give it a shot. Those IOUs you possess might prove to be valuable.”
Zhao Shu was taken aback.
Qiao Xuan had already caught on to Shao Yunduan’s plan, smiling as she elaborated, “My husband is onto something. Those IOUs can be leverage. It all hinges on whether Old Master Zhao is more inclined to part with his money or divorce. I believe Young Master Zhao, you can anticipate his choice, right?”
Zhao Shu’s face lit up with hope. He nodded and grinned, “Indeed, why didn’t I think of that? His attachment to his wealth is undeniable!”