"Good." Zhenghe's tone was quiet, but it cut through the air. "Now, both of you listen. I've tolerated this household's nonsense for too long."
He turned first to Marin. "You married into this family, Marin. You carry the Gu name, yes but in this house, you are a Qian. Don't forget that. What you say here echoes outside, and what you spit in anger stains us all. Xu Yunying is your daughter-in-law now. Even if you dislike her, even if you think she's unworthy, your contempt does not leave this table. Do you understand?"
Marin's lips parted, but the ice in her husband's eyes left no room for protest. "…Yes.." she murmured.
Then Zhenghe's gaze shifted to Jinxing, sharp as a blade unsheathed. "And you, don't think you can storm out every time you don't like what you hear. That isn't strength. That's arrogance. You want your wife respected? Fine. But respect is not demanded by shouting. It's earned by standing firm without losing your temper. Are you capable of that?"
