Zhang Li's words didn't come as a surprise, but even more, Ling Tianya felt sorry for herself. Just because Ling Qi was worried that her dirty deeds would be exposed, she chose to sacrifice Ling Tianya.
Ling Tianya knew that Zhang Li's words couldn't be taken at face value either. At least, Li Chenfeng definitely didn't find Ling Qi in order to uncover the truth or seek vengeance for Ming Hui. Most likely it was because there was evidence of Ming Hui and Ling Qi's interactions, so they wanted to use it to blackmail Ling Qi. In order to protect her reputation and position, she chose to give them money.