Chapter 1992: Ms. Ma Is Getting More Enthusiastic

Qiao Xuan and Yang Xiaoni tactfully ignored Mother-in-law’s teary eyes, choosing instead to offer comforting words about Taotao’s bright future. Their laughter helped ease the tension, and Ms. Fang visibly relaxed.

Realizing that crying on such a joyful occasion wouldn’t be appropriate, Ms. Fang regained her composure. She took solace in the fact that Taotao was marrying into a family where she wouldn’t be mistreated. If Taotao ever wished to return, she could do so freely, maintaining contact with her birth family.

With spirits lifted, Ms. Fang invited everyone to return to the banquet.

Despite initial reluctance from Ms. Ma and Third Uncle, they couldn’t afford to snub the event. The thought of the first section of the family seizing the marriage left them feeling aggrieved. However, boycotting the celebration would only fuel rumors of discord within their own branch of the family.

How could this be tolerated! The couple begrudgingly accepted their fate.

Shao Xiaozhi remained absent throughout the entire affair.

Ever since her unsettling encounter with Zhao Shu, she couldn’t bear to dwell on thoughts of him. Though she still harbored a secret admiration, it was tainted with other, less savory emotions.

Nevertheless, she couldn’t shake her resentment towards Taotao.

As Taotao’s grand wedding unfolded, Shao Xiaozhi refused to attend out of spite. And Ms. Ma, understanding her daughter’s feelings, didn’t push her to go. If anyone inquired, they would be informed that Shao Xiaozhi was unwell and resting at home.

When questioned about Shao Xiaozhi’s absence, Ms. Ma’s response dripped with jealousy. Suspecting ulterior motives behind the inquiry, she haughtily proclaimed that her Xiaozhi wasn’t in a rush. Once her husband Liulang ascended to a high-ranking position in the capital, they would secure a prestigious match for Xiaozhi from an official family.

“…If a brother who has risen to a high position doesn’t look out for his sister, then who will? They share the same blood! Xiaozhi must marry into an official’s family, no question about it. The status of an official’s wife is prestigious and esteemed. Who wouldn’t show respect to her? She’s in a league of her own compared to mere rich folks and businessmen!”

Ms. Ma’s fervor only intensified as she spoke, displaying a clear disdain for businessmen.

Her words left the relative who had inquired feeling deeply embarrassed. He wanted to interject, but found himself at a loss.

To be frank, his question had been rather casual. He never anticipated Ms. Ma would seize upon it as an opportunity to expound on Taotao’s husband.

Had he known better, he wouldn’t have asked at all!

The others at the same table felt a similar sense of discomfort. Even if there were a couple of curious onlookers who were intrigued by the drama, they dared not utter a word.

Better to simply listen and avoid stirring the pot. Nobody wanted to risk Ms. Ma’s ire.

Not everyone possessed Ms. Ma’s audacity, nor did they share her lack of tact.

Why did she choose the wedding banquet to air her grievances?

Ms. Fang and Qiao Xuan remained oblivious to the underlying tension.

Ms. Ma’s continued commentary proved futile. It was evident to everyone that her remarks stemmed from jealousy.

But Ms. Fang silently removed two items she had intended to include in Shao Xiaozhi’s dowry…

If you hold merchants in contempt, then don’t accept gifts procured through their commerce.

As the festivities drew to a close, relatives and friends dispersed, leaving the household to tidy up. By the time dusk fell, the chores were mostly completed.