"Father, you should give up on this idea. Since I already know, it is impossible for me to abandon you here. It is just as well that Elder Sister has left; I will send people to search for her, but do not pin your hopes on it—if she is intent on hiding, she will be difficult to find. However, how shall we explain this when the royal family members come? You really ought to give that some thought."
"It is likely too late for us to run now. The day Elder Sister left, they were all present; I fear they already know and are keeping a close watch on the Zhao Estate," Zhao Chengyin said, well aware of the stakes.
"We must tell the truth. We shall say we received word that her childhood fiancé perished at sea and she has gone to find him. In any case, Keke was not betrothed to any of them. Since nothing was promised, no one can force her hand. How much of our assets have we transferred? All the important docks, property deeds, and house titles must be moved. The same goes for our bank notes."
Chapter 244