"I really have nothing with Madame Zhao."
Xu Zhenchang, in any case, would not admit it even if it killed him.
Having been the village chief for so many years, he hadn't held the position for nothing. He understood the principle of leniency for those who confess, harshness for those who resist.
With such matters, as long as you're not caught in the act, a firm denial means nobody can do anything to you.
If he admitted it, his status at home would definitely plummet, and what if Liu Qing caught wind of it? Would he let him off?
Don't take Liu Qing for a fool, despite his slow wits, his body is all muscle, strong and powerful.
When he loses his temper, he's like a bull, intimidating to anyone who encounters him.
Xu Zhenchang's physique was certainly no match for him.