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As they stepped out of the courtyard, they found Zhao Cheng and his brothers blocking the gate with a crowd of men, thick sticks in their hands. The moment Madam Zhao appeared, Zhao Cheng shouted, "Niece-in-law, what do you mean by going around ruining our reputations?"

"We only felt sorry for you, a widow raising children alone, and wanted to look after the shop until Luoxi came of age. It's not as if we wouldn't give it back. But after all your shouting, everyone thinks we're trying to steal my nephew's family property. What are you trying to do?"

"Don't tell me you've found a lover and plan to pocket my nephew's and grandnephew's property with him."

"That's a filthy lie!"

Madam Zhao had never imagined he could be so shameless. Not only did he refuse to admit what he had done, he turned around and slandered her with such a despicable accusation!

Afraid Madam Zhao would fall for his trap, Shen Lantang grabbed her and called out, "Everyone knows how devoted Madam Zhao and her husband were. There's no need for you to drive a wedge between them. If the neighbors have doubts, Madam Zhao can write a Statement Letter making it clear that she is only managing the family property for the two children and will hand them their shares when they come of age."

"That's right! We all know how much Mr. and Madam Zhao loved each other!"

"You're the one with an ulterior motive! Stop slandering Madam Zhao!"

"..."

Seeing that his tactic wasn't working, Zhao Cheng dropped the pretense. He raised an arm and shouted:

"No point talking sense into you. Men, smash it!"

A dozen or so men surged forward, swinging their sticks at the gate of the Zhao Residence. The servants rushed to