Chapter 1023: Side Story 2 (3)

Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Mr. Li Er’s mind raced as he considered the young man’s proposal. On the surface, things weren’t bad.

Sure, the guy tended to blather on, but he wasn’t a notorious womanizer, and at least he remained unattached.

More importantly, his family lineage was clean—no concubines for three generations. He’d even met his sister—not exactly a paragon of virtue, but refreshingly straightforward. All in all, it could be a decent match for his little sister.

However, Hong Suzhi’s situation was far from ordinary. Her true identity was a secret, and she was also a widow. These were not details most men would readily accept.

With a sigh, he offered a compromise. “Listen, Runsheng,” he began, “why don’t I ask around a bit and see what she feels? I’ll let you know later.”

“Sure, but be quick about it,” Runsheng pressed.

“Why the urgency? You’ve been single for twenty years!” Mr. Li Er countered with a laugh.

“That’s different! Once you find someone you like, you have to act fast. Otherwise, you’ll be left crying into your pillow when someone else snatches her up.”

“Alright, alright. I’ll get back to you tomorrow.” With that, Mr. Li Er bid farewell to his friend and returned home with Hong Suzhi.

Upon entering the house, they were greeted by Third Master Li and his eldest brother, as well as Mother Li.

“Lijun, how were the lanterns? Did you enjoy yourselves?” Mother Li inquired as soon as they walked in.

“They were lovely,” Hong Suzhi replied with a smile. “It’s been a while since I’ve seen such a display.”

After some pleasantries, Mr. Li Er hesitantly brought up the topic of Runsheng. “Little sister, what are your thoughts about Young Master Yao, the one we call Runsheng?”

“Does he have an interest in Suzhi?” Mother Li interjected, her voice laced with concern. “No, no, that boy is far too flirtatious. Suzhi wouldn’t be happy with him as a husband.”

“Mother, you’re only seeing one side of him,” Mr. Li Er countered. “He might be a bit loose with his words, but that’s just his personality. He doesn’t even have a concubine or a servant girl!”

“He’s not a bad person,” Eldest Young Master Li agreed. “He’s quite resourceful. Most importantly, the Yao family is well-established, making them a suitable match in terms of social standing. Plus, both families are major landowners.”

“Lijun, what do you think?” Mother Li finally turned the question to Hong Suzhi.

“Marriage isn’t something I’m considering at the moment,” Hong Suzhi confessed.

“Silly girl,” Mother Li chided gently. “Finding someone compatible isn’t easy. If you feel something for him, give it a chance. Regret can be a bitter pill to swallow later.”

“Indeed, you’re not getting any younger.” Third Master Li echoed his wife’s sentiment.

While Hong Suzhi didn’t dislike the young man, she didn’t exactly feel warmth toward him either. The talkative young man was an enigma to her.

Seeing her hesitation, Mr. Li Er offered a solution. “Why don’t I invite him over tomorrow? You two can have a proper conversation. If you see potential, then you can consider it. If not, let me know privately, and I’ll handle the rejection.”

Hong Suzhi pondered for a moment before finally nodding in agreement. “Alright, that sounds fair.”

The following day, when Hong Suzhi met Young Master Yao, he resembled a blooming lotus, desperately trying to impress her with his eloquent rambling. However, to her eyes, he seemed too flamboyant, leading to her swift rejection.

As Mr. Li Er escorted his friend out, Runsheng inquired in confusion, “Brother Li, did I say something wrong? Why the sudden rejection?”

“You put on too much of a show,” Mr. Li Er explained with a chuckle. “Think peacock with a fully fanned tail. Most women would be intimidated. Besides, my sister has a quiet personality, and your constant chatter might grate on her.”

Runsheng pondered this feedback, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow. Finally, he raised his hand and slapped his mouth, seemingly coming to terms with the situation. “It looks like I really have to be more mindful of my mouth in the future.”