A pearled gem covered in dust—Nolan wasn’t the only one with eyes sharp enough to spot it. Ninth Royal Uncle never imagined that someone else in this world could share his vision, seeing the true worth of Serena Feng beneath her ruined reputation.
For the Young Clan to ignore Serena Feng’s ruined name and insist on marrying her, despite all outside criticism, proved that the Young family’s patriarch had a truly ruthless eye for talent.
Ninth Royal Uncle felt a surge of relief that he’d acted early—otherwise, given Serena’s longing for a quiet life, she might really have considered marrying into the Young Clan. After all, what they offered was exactly what she always wanted: not only the position of principal wife, but the role of head-madam of the entire Young household.
Without a doubt, this would be the best vindication of Serena’s innocence. If she married into the Young Clan, under their protection, no rumors could ever touch her again—her entire life would be peaceful and smooth. With her skills, surviving in the rear court would be no problem at all.
Yet—even knowing this kind of life was the best outcome for any woman, Ninth Royal Uncle still refused to allow it.
Serena’s happiness could only come from him—whatever others offered, no matter how good, he would never allow her to accept it.
“Serena, do you want to marry into the Young Clan?” Ninth Royal Uncle held her tightly, his gaze burning. Seeing Serena silent for so long, he pressed her again.
He was afraid—afraid Serena might regret following him without name or status…
Marry into the Young Clan? Of course not. She didn’t answer because she thought Ninth Royal Uncle’s question was ridiculous—there was no point replying. If she’d wanted to marry, she never would have let Nolan into her bed in the first place.
But seeing Ninth Royal Uncle so tense and serious, pressing her again and again, she certainly wasn’t going to give a straight answer. Since the opportunity was so rare, of course she wanted to make him nervous for once.
Serena lifted her chin, putting on a serious face: “The Young Clan is pretty good. They’re sincere enough to overlook my reputation and propose marriage. I don’t think becoming the Young Clan’s head-madam would be too difficult for me.”
“You want to be the Young Clan’s head-madam?” Ninth Royal Uncle’s voice rose, his words coming fast.
“Am I not worthy?” Serena shot back with a smile, her eyes glinting dangerously.
If Ninth Royal Uncle dared say she wasn’t worthy, she’d kick him out on the spot. If he said she was, then what more was there to discuss?
But Ninth Royal Uncle wasn’t stupid—he heard the meaning behind Serena’s words. He sneered coldly, threatening: “Serena, you want to be the Young Clan’s head-madam? Keep dreaming. I won’t allow it. If you dare accept their proposal, I’ll send troops to Cloud City and raze the Young Clan to the ground. I’ll see who you could possibly marry then.”
Seeing Serena’s calm face, Ninth Royal Uncle added, “Serena, don’t think I’m just saying this. If I say I’ll do it, I will. Try me—if you dare accept the Young Clan’s proposal, I’ll destroy them and make them hate you for life.”
If his first words were just a threat, this was a promise of violence. Ninth Royal Uncle tightened his grip, as if he might crush Serena in his arms.
Serena felt herself suffocating—the killing intent and ruthlessness radiating from Ninth Royal Uncle made her panic for a moment. She never imagined that a casual remark could provoke him to such fury, even to the point of wanting to march on Cloud City for her sake.
How could she, Serena Feng, possibly deserve such devotion from this man—worthy of being called a femme fatale?
Serena didn’t dare cry out in pain or struggle. Instead, she hugged Ninth Royal Uncle back tightly and said with absolute certainty, “No. I won’t marry anyone. I won’t accept the Young Clan’s proposal. No matter how good they are, no matter how impressive the head-madam’s seat, it has nothing to do with me. I don’t want it. I don’t want…"