I'm Not Going

"This isn't just about humiliation. It's likely to cost us a considerable amount of money, with no guarantee of a favorable outcome. Prefect Shao may be reasonable, but who knows what kind of person the Lord Prefect is?" remarked Second Old Master Fan, expressing his concerns.

Old Lady Fan's anger flared. "You! Are your wife behind this? How dare you speak to me like that! You ungrateful son!"

The accusation caught Second Old Master Fan off guard. "Mother, what are you implying?! I haven't discussed this matter with her at all! And she wouldn't have the audacity!"

Old Lady Fan sneered, suspicion evident in her eyes. "Behind my back, who's to say you aren't plotting against me?"

Second Old Master Fan fell silent, his expression darkening.

Attempting to diffuse the tension, First Old Master Fan interjected, "Mother, let's focus on the issue at hand!"