In the glass-walled pavilion of the Marquis's Mansion, Chen Yutong slammed her teacup down onto the table, the gold-inlaid jade base emitting a crisp, sharp sound. "It’s preposterous! I have been close with Miss Jiang for five years; I know exactly what kind of person she is. Those vile rumors are clearly just the work of those who cannot bear to see others succeed!"
Wang Qinghe nodded, clutching her handkerchief. The jade bracelet peeking out from her sleeve was the very one gifted to her by Jiang Wan. "I heard people gossiping at Zuixian Pavilion yesterday, claiming Miss Jiang had an affair with a merchant from the Western Regions—how ridiculous. I have seen that merchant myself; he is clearly a distant relative of the Marquis's Mansion!"
"That is precisely why I have invited you all here today," Jiang Wan said, signaling for Xiaotao to bring out a gift box. Inside were letters exchanged with the noble ladies and the various gifts they had shared. "These items all have a traceable record. I would appreciate it if you could take these back with you today. If anyone asks, please say a few kind words on my behalf."
Chapter 222