Concubine Yan's heart raced with panic, her face draining of color as she turned to First Madam Lu for guidance.
What should she say now? How could she possibly know how to navigate this situation?
First Madam Lu, equally flustered, offered a strained smile. "Madam Shao, I believe there must have been a misunderstanding on Concubine Yan's part…"
"Yes, indeed! These rumors have been circulating outside. Why wouldn't they be? Lord Shao's actions during the Lantern Festival clearly indicated his protection of our Third Miss!" Concubine Yan interjected hastily, attempting to justify her previous statement.
