He never anticipated that Mrs. Bai would resort to such underhanded tactics behind Madam Shao's back.
It explained why Madam Shao kept her distance from Mrs. Bai—clearly, she saw through her true character.
Speculation arose about Mrs. Bai's motives, especially regarding her unmarried daughter. It dawned on everyone that she aimed to become Lord Shao's mother-in-law through less-than-honorable means. Failing to win Madam Shao's favor, she resorted to slander, hoping to coerce Madam Shao into submission for the sake of her reputation.
Further revelations painted Mrs. Bai's daughter in an even more unfavorable light. Her shameless pursuit of Lord Shao two years prior, coincidentally timed encounters, and subsequent public reprimand by Lord Shao only intensified disdain towards her.
Disgust for Mrs. Bai and her daughter spread like wildfire. Many deemed her unworthy of even carrying Lord Shao's shoes, let alone earning his affection.
