Ma Peng's actions were indeed effective. Zhuang Ruolan knew nothing about the matter before the full moon feast. But by the time of the banquet, the secret could no longer be hidden.
Zhuang Ruolan, upon hearing Madam Bao mention it, suppressed her fury and said indifferently, "I don't know where mother heard such things. Mother shouldn't jump to conclusions based on rumors."
Madam Bao, looking at Zhuang Ruolan's contorted face, felt a sense of satisfaction. Recently, dealing with Hailan's marriage had left her seething with anger. Now, seeing Zhuang Ruolan's discomfort brought her some semblance of balance.
After Madam Bao left, Cai Yun advised Zhuang Ruolan, "Young lady needn't worry. Look how the Old Master and the Eldest Young Master don't believe it and are so fond of Miss."
