Willow-Folded Waist: The Ascetic Regent Drops His Act

The Marquis's household had spent three years giving up on everything. Now Jiang Yuning had returned in a blaze of glory, determined to restore the Jiang family's standing as its legitimate daughter. But the women of her family were easy targets in the capital, and everyone wanted to take a swipe at them.

“Miss, your cousin from the Marquis of Wuhou's household killed someone and burned the body, and plans to frame you.”

Jiang Yuning said, “It’s time that the military funds the marquis embezzled three years ago found their way back into the soldiers’ bellies.”

“Miss, the chancellor’s daughter hired a troupe to spread rumors that you’re having an affair and have ruined your reputation!”

Jiang Yuning said, “Today’s a fine day to bring out the chancellor’s imperial robe and give everyone a look.”

…

Jiang Yuning’s fearsome reputation spread far and wide, and not a single matchmaker dared visit. The entire capital delighted in her misfortune. “A shrew like her deserves to grow old alone!”

The next day, Zhao Xuanjing showed up with 360 loads of betrothal gifts to ask for her hand. The aloof, taciturn regent, who always kept his desires under wraps in public, tugged at her sleeve and dropped the act completely. “A Ning, don’t just scare other people. Why don’t you scare me a little, too?”