Applying for Leave

The thought alone brought a sour sting to Zhang Mei's nose. Not too long ago, the Gu family was prosperous and envied by many, including the Gong family, their in-laws. Many sought to ingratiate themselves with them, but now, their circumstances were pitifully desolate.

Zhang Mei was still unwilling to accept this reality. At times, she couldn't help but wonder if things would have been better if Gu Zi and Lin Miao hadn't been switched back. 

After all, she had heard that Lin Miao had been living quite well these past years. Gu Zi, on the other hand, was indeed more capable, able to bring honor and glory to the Gu family. It seemed that Gu Zi was more suited to stay with the Gu family.

However, the sight of Lin Miao's inconsolable state that day made Zhang Mei feel guilty for harboring such thoughts. Even if the Lin family had treated her well, it was nowhere near the conditions the Gu family could offer Gu Zi. What good would it do?