Within the Zhou family, ever since Zhulan returned with the message, her heart hasn't been at ease. Zhou Shuren had entered the palace—entering the palace at such a time, and alone, has drawn the eyes of the entire capital upon him. Just the thought of it is frightening!
Zhou Laoda was anxiously pacing back and forth, "Mother, Father has been in the palace for over an hour, yet there hasn't been any news?"
Zhulan was filled with various speculations but maintained a calm demeanor, "Laoda, sit down."
Zhou Laoda could not sit still without any news from the palace; when he did sit down, it was as if he had been pricked by a needle. But upon meeting his mother's gaze, he suppressed his restlessness and sat obediently.
Zhulan looked down at her hands. Now she understood why some people liked to hold a String of Pearls; she wanted to do it too, having something in hand would calm her mind.
