Yuwen Tong kept everyone’s face in his mind with only a quick glance at Ling Family’s gate. He didn’t find anyone of the same age as Ling Zhang. It was clear that Ling Zhang wasn’t here.

Yuwen Tong frowned slightly, and this subtle action was barely noticed by others. ‘So he isn’t home?’

He was surprised to learn of this engagement with the Ling Family. But since the Ling Family wanted to end it, he would not force them to do otherwise. The purpose of his visit to Tanyang was mainly to find a new solution to the problem he might face back to the capital, and he also intended to do Ling Family a favor; another purpose was to probe into the situation of Tanyang at his convenience. On the contrary, he didn't mind the termination of their marriage contract at all.

But Ling Zhang’s absence left Yuwen Tong with a strange feeling at this moment, a hint of unspeakable and subtle displeasure.

What did Ling Family mean? Were they afraid that he would fall in love with Ling Zhang at first sight and marry him?

Despite all the thoughts in mind, he just kept that cool look.

"Greetings, my lord." Ling Xingzhong said as he led the rest member of Ling family to pay their respects.

In view of the fact that Yuwen Tong didn’t want to reveal his identity, Ling Xingzhong and Ling Zhaowen didn’t honor him as Marshal. They had discussed this matter in advance so as not to ruin Yuwen Tong’s plan.

Yuwen Tong dismounted at once. He came up to Ling Xingzhong and helped him up. “Oh, please, Lord Ling. Let’s not stand on ceremony. As a junior, how can I accept your kneeling.”

“All of you here get up.”

“Thank you, my Lord.” Ling Zhaowen led others to stand up.

Yuwen Tong was not only tall and straight, but also had a powerful aura, which made people feel oppressive. For a moment he was the center of attention. The Ling Family’s servants had never seen anyone with such an imposing temperament. They instantly became quiet, even breathing carefully.

“My lord, your coming from afar is really a pleasure for us. I haven’t been to the Capital for many years. How is your family?” Ling Xingzhong asked.

“Thank you for your regards. Everything is fine,” Yuwen Tong said. “My grandfather mentioned you many times when he was alive. Your kindness to our family will always be in my mind.”

Ling Xingzhong didn’t expect that Yuwen Tong would take the initiative to mention the past. His tone was sincere, and it was clear that he did remember how the Ling Family had helped them in the past. This surprised and delighted Ling Xingzhong. As long as Yuwen Family still remembered their kindness, they would not blame Ling Family for breaking off the engagement.

Ling Xingzhong and Ling Zhaowen were relieved when they heard Yuwen Tong’s words. Yuwen Tong made a good impression on the two of them.

“I am glad that your grandfather remembered me. I just did what I was supposed to do in that year. So it was not worth mentioning,” Ling Xingzhong said.

“A favor, even a small one, received during times of dire need should be repaid with redoubled effort. You saved my grandfather’s life, so don’t be so modest. As long as I am alive, I will remember your kindness.”

Ling Xingzhong said with a smile, "I really do not deserve your praise, my Lord. However, if you still feel indebted to me, my Lord, why don't stay here, and we shall call it even?"

“Thank you a lot. I am serious, Lord Ling. How can your kindness to us be easily forgotten?” Yuwen Tong insisted.

Ling Xingzhong smiled. “My Lord, please.”

Yuwen Tong nodded, then walked into Ling Mansion with Ling Xingzhong. At the same time, he glanced at Ling Zhaowen and asked, “May I ask who is this?”

“This is Zhaowen, my second son. He is currently holding a position at the Prefecture Yamen of Tanyang as a Right Tongzhi.” Ling Xingzhong said.

Ling Zhaowen folded his hands to show respect.

Yuwen Tong nodded as a response and pretended to inadvertently ask, “I didn’t see your grandson just now. Isn’t he at home?”

Yuwen Tong took the initiative to mention Ling Zhang, which confused Ling Xingzhong and Ling Zhaowen. They answered honestly, “Yesterday, he took his cousin to the Herb Farm in the south of the city. So he didn’t know your coming. I have sent a message to the Herb Farm to inform him. And I will get him back soon.”

It turned out that he didn’t shun me. A Desire to Escape