“I have an idea. I’ll explain the details to Brother Luo later and ask for your opinion,” Ruan Ning said with a smile. “I’ve stabilized the situation at the official residence. The most crucial thing now is to find a place for our family to hide after my father is released.”
Ruan Ning had a plan? Luo Jie was impressed and said: “Come to my home. My father will be happy!”
“I’m afraid that won’t work,” Ruan Ning smiled without elaboration. She was determined not to marry the county magistrate, and Ruan Shi Xin would likely struggle to leave the yamen openly. Once rescued, they would be fugitives, and a straightforward relocation was impossible.
Meeting would still be within County Magistrate Li’s acceptance. He thought for a moment and said: “Now that all the guests are here, it’s not convenient to arrange things. The madam should return to the bridal chamber and wait.”
Ruan Ning relaxed as she followed the matchmaker to the bridal chamber. County Magistrate Li was alone, accompanied mostly by family members of colleagues and subordinates. Ignoring them, Ruan Ning picked at the pastries and fruits on the table, quickly finishing a large plate of wedding treats. Understanding she would face a fierce battle to save her father, she needed to eat well to gain strength.
After two quarters of an hour, County Magistrate Li dealt with the guests and hurried to the bridal chamber. The observing women tactfully dispersed. Li rushed forward, but before he could touch her hand, she stood up coldly and said, “Sir, if I can’t see my father, this marriage cannot proceed.”
Although somewhat displeased, County Magistrate Li replied, “See? How can we not see? Madam, please come this way. I will take you to see him right now.”
As they left the bridal chamber and circled around the residence to the front yamen, Ruan Ning listened carefully for movements behind her, noticing that Luo Jie and others were secretly following, which reassured her.
Due to his status as the county magistrate’s future father-in-law, Ruan Shi Xin had been treated quite well these days.
