This time, First Madam Fan and Second Mrs. Fan clenched their jaws, refusing to offer apologies. Surrendering now would mean a lifetime of submission.
Old Lady Fan, unaccustomed to such defiance, was profoundly affected by their refusal.
So consumed with rage was she that she collapsed before she could regain her breath.
The room descended into chaos once more.
"Mother!" "Mother!"
"Help!"
"Ah!" "Mother!"
"Someone! We need help!"
"Fetch a doctor!"
Fan Ruyin shook Madame Lady Qiao and cried out, "Mother!" Then, without a second thought, she turned towards First Madam Fan and slapped her across the face. "This is all because of you!"
First Madam Fan seized her hand and retaliated with a fierce slap, causing Fan Ruyin to recoil in pain. She pointed accusingly. "Enough! If you hadn't caused trouble, none of this would have happened. You show no remorse and only grow more insolent. Take a good look at yourself!"
