Chapter 1984: Disgusting Former Brother

Zhao Di seethed with anger.

Upon hearing Zhao Di’s grievances, the other family members rallied to his side, empathizing with his plight. Hastily, they intervened, whisking him away before he could utter another word.

Naturally, Zhao Di couldn’t simply depart without a plan. Aware of Zhao Shu’s volatile temper, he understood that further agitation would only result in expulsion. Thus, he begrudgingly swallowed his indignation, opting not to provoke Zhao Shu any further during their journey.

This concession left Zhao Shu feeling somewhat remorseful.

Secretly, he harbored a desire for Zhao Di to misstep, providing him with a justification to take action.

Upon their arrival at Heshan County, Zhao Di and Zhao Ye were promptly lodged at the inn. Despite being adopted, they felt entitled to better treatment. Their relegation to the inn left them discontented.

Uncle Qing and Aunt Qing had diligently made preparations. Upon the Zhao Family’s arrival in Heshan County, they merely needed to rest briefly before the groom’s arrival.

Promptly upon his arrival, Zhao Shu dispatched a missive to the primary branch of the family.

The following day, Zhao Shu’s two uncles and two aunts made their way to Shaoding Village to confer with Ms. Fang, Eldest Uncle, and other members of the Shao Family regarding the wedding arrangements. This face-to-face discussion was deemed necessary.

Thanks to Zhao Shu’s prior correspondence, the first branch of the family was well-prepared for the impending visit from the Zhao Family.

Upon the arrival of Zhao Shu’s relatives, the courtyard of the first branch was meticulously cleaned, and everyone donned their finest attire, elevating their usual appearance without appearing ostentatious or out of place.

Though not as affluent as Zhao Shu, the first branch of the Shao Family still enjoyed a level of prosperity far surpassing that of any other household in the village.

However, when Uncle Zhao Shu and company departed for the village, Zhao Di somehow caught wind of their plans and insisted on tagging along. Despite Uncle Zhao Shu’s attempts to dissuade him, Zhao Di stubbornly persisted, eventually relenting only when it became apparent that he wouldn’t be allowed to accompany them.

Consequently, when one of Uncle Qing’s subordinates introduced Zhao Di as his Young Master’s cousin, Qiao Xuan couldn’t suppress a silent sneer at the sight of him.

Zhao Di was unfamiliar with Qiao Xuan, just as she was with him. While Qiao Xuan had deceived the Zhao Family, she had no prior acquaintance with Zhao Di beyond knowing his name.

However, Qiao Xuan could discern Zhao Di’s demeanor from the moment he set foot in the courtyard. His scrutinizing and disdainful expression spoke volumes.

Ms. Fang and Eldest Uncle remained oblivious to Zhao Di’s intentions, extending warm greetings to the Zhao Family, along with Ms. Xu and Shao Dalang. They failed to detect any hint of animosity from Zhao Di.

Unlike the others, Yang Xiaoni didn’t appear naive. Despite the cordial reception extended by Ms. Fang and Eldest Uncle, she sensed something amiss with Zhao Di’s attitude. Tugging at Qiao Xuan’s sleeve, she whispered, “Fifth Sister-in-law, that’s Young Master Zhao’s cousin. Why does he seem to harbor ill feelings and look down upon us?”

Qiao Xuan was taken aback but offered a reassuring smile to Yang Xiaoni.

“I believe you, Yang Xiaoni, I’m not doubting your observations.” Sensing Yang Xiaoni’s earnestness, Qiao Xuan continued, “I understand your love for Taotao, and I know you wouldn’t speak ill of the Zhao Family without cause. I witnessed it too–the eye-rolling and disdainful expression. You’re right to be concerned. Who would roll their eyes at a wedding, after all?”