Chapter 211: Determination
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The Lin family was dumbfounded, and when Su Shen approached, Gu Zits father asked, “Didn’t we agree that you just needed to give Little Zi three gold
pieces of jewelry?” It seemed different from what they had discussed by the river!
Su Shen replied, “At that time, I hadn’t thought it through. I believe I should express my determination to marry Gu Zi in the most direct way.”
As he spoke, the people in front of Lin’s house cleared a path, and the bridal procession had arrived at the door.
The Lin family had been decorating for their daughter’s wedding, and the arrival of the procession added even more festivity to the atmosphere.
After Jin Long and others finished moving and arranging the furniture, they came over to express their blessings and then hurriedly left.
With the gifts delivered, Jin Long had to check on the pig farm.
After all, it was his good friend’s wedding, and he was willing to help out as much as he could. Su Shen had put in a lot of extra hours for him before, so it was only fair.
Lin Cheng and Li Hua brought over some chairs, inviting Su Shen and Gu Zi to take a seat. They then headed to the kitchen, fetching tea and snacks to offer the bridal party some refreshments on the side.
The formal ceremony kicked off, with the bridal procession lining up neatly. A professional wedding announcer stepped forward to convey blessings and recite the list of gifts.
“Under the radiant sunshine and amidst lively drumbeats, congratulations on the union of the Su and Lin families! The betrothal gifts encompass a pair of mandarin ducks, gold rings, gold earrings, gold necklace, gold bracelets, and a gold pendant set. The betrothal money amounts to 8888 yuan, accompanied by six boxes of gift candies and cakes…”
While the announcer spoke, she approached Gu Zi’s parents, placing each gift before them. The bamboo baskets and red boxes swiftly piled up, creating a small mountain. For many, such scenes had only been heard of in stories, and witnessing it today was truly enlightening.
As soon as the sum “8888 yuan” was mentioned, everyone seemed to hold their breath. Facial muscles twitched as they grasped that Lin Lao’er’s family was undeniably prosperous, now being the wealthiest in Little Lin Village.
The pair of mandarin ducks represented an unwavering commitment, while the gold items conveyed wishes for prosperity and happiness in married life.
Since ancient times, rich families generally refrained from flaunting their wealth, but major life events and ceremonies were exceptions to this norm.
Gu Zi wasn’t sure when Su Shen had arranged all of this, but she was certain that what he had done surpassed what met the eye. This man was truly deserving of marriage.
Yet, she couldn’t help but ponder: Were these betrothal gifts too lavish? Glancing at Su Shen, he responded with a tender smile, and his eyes held a profound affection that made Gu Zi’s heart beat faster.
After the betrothal gifts were presented, Mr. and Mrs. Lin didn’t exhibit the kind of exuberant joy seen in those who suddenly struck it rich. Their happiness stemmed more from the fact that their daughter had found a good man rather than the extravagant gifts.
After a short while, they invited Su Shen and Gu Zi into the house, while Lin Cheng took charge of having the betrothal gifts brought in.
Li Hua opened a box of gift candies and cakes, distributing them to the villagers present.
Inside the house, Gu Zi’s father expressed to Su Shen, “Your courtesy has deeply moved us. We are overjoyed that Little Zi is marrying you, not just because of the extravagant betrothal gifts. However, traditionally, it’s not customary to accept the entire betrothal. We’ll keep these items, but the betrothal money and gold are for Little Zi to take back. Consider it our return gift. ”
The elderly couple handed over the betrothal money along with the gold to Gu Zi, aiming to boost her confidence.
With Lin Cheng as a capable son, they believed their family could sustain itself, and they were still quite active themselves.
Having alreadv received a considerable amount from Su Shen, thev couldn’t accept more. This money wasn’t something they could take.
Mother Lin said to Gu Zi, “Take this money back. Let Su Shen help you open an account, deposit the betrothal money in there, and consider it your personal savings given by your parents.”
Gu Zi was very touched when she heard Mother Lin’s words. She recognized the practicality of keeping the money safe, especially considering the recent commotion. Lin Miao might still cause trouble, and it was better to keep the money secured until needed.
Reflecting on the generosity of the older couple, Gu Zi wondered if this was the famed tenderness of caring elderly.
Su Shen found her smile and slightly bashful demeanor adorable. Men are inherently goal-oriented creatures, and for him, spending this money was about making her happy, and her happiness, in turn, brought him joy. He desired her but also sought legitimacy through traditional rituals.
Su Shen did not have any objections to Mr. and Mrs. Lin’s suggestion, and he held an even deeper respect for the elderly couple. Despite enduring poverty for a long time, their spirit remained unbroken. Having such people to call father and mother, Su Shen felt sincerely honored..