Chapter 51:

Yu Xiang’an accepted Lin Chuanbai’s ring.

Perhaps it was an impulsive decision, maybe too soon, but she wanted to say yes—as if bewitched.

The two quickly settled on a day off, agreeing that their families would meet then.

When she got back, Yu Xiang’an splashed cold water on her face to cool down, but the heat wouldn’t fade—whether it was on her cheeks or in her heart, she couldn’t tell.

So this was what it felt like to be love-struck?

She touched the corners of her upturned lips and suddenly understood why her eldest brother in this life had come to her to learn how to cook for his wife. Before that, he had never stepped foot in the kitchen.

When the groom’s side came to visit, Yu Qingshan, Yu Xianghai, Yao Cuifen, and Qin Qiang were all present. Lin Chuanbai was accompanied by his grandfather Lin Duzhong and his uncle Lin Jiqing. Xu Haili didn’t come—Lin Duzhong was afraid she might say something unpleasant and ruin the match.

Her words were never kind.

He knew the reason too. Since Lin Chuanqiong’s job after graduation wasn’t as respectable or easy as Lin Chuanbai’s, she harbored resentment.

Her son hadn’t gotten into a pharmaceutical factory or a prestigious unit like the supply and marketing cooperative.

Lin Chuanqiong had ended up in a textile factory. Food, clothing, shelter, and transportation—clothing came first, so it wasn’t a bad industry. But in the textile factory, he wasn’t a manager or an office worker. Instead, he was in the labor union, where the work was exhausting—constantly mediating disputes and dealing with complaints. It was tough, and at his young age, he struggled to handle it. But the textile factory was the only place with an opening Lin Duzhong could arrange for him at the time. Even though he knew Xu Haili was dissatisfied, he had to secure the job first before looking for opportunities to transfer him elsewhere.

Getting a transfer after having a job was entirely different from trying to secure a position without one.

But Xu Haili didn’t understand. Especially when she saw Lin Chuanqiong often working overtime, mediating disputes until his throat was hoarse, and once even coming home with three scratches on his face from an altercation, she grew even more convinced that Lin Duzhong was playing favorites.

She didn’t dare confront Lin Duzhong—she still needed him to help transfer her son—so she took her anger out on Lin Chuanbai, resenting any good fortune that came his way. She had already nagged at him more than once when he came home late.

Thinking about it, Lin Duzhong felt it was a good thing they lived separately. Fewer complications. If they argued, it would only make things ugly.

Lin Chuanbai was also relieved she hadn’t come. His grandfather was reliable—he hadn’t let her show up at such a critical moment. He was genuinely afraid she’d say something inappropriate.

He felt utterly wronged. She thought his grandfather favored him, giving him such a good job, but—

Had she forgotten? He had earned this position himself.

Today, Lin Chuanbai was the center of attention, dressed sharply in a well-fitted outfit. He brought two bottles of liquor, a bag of fruit, two packs of candy, and two pounds of meat—a generous gift.

The liquor was a thoughtful choice. Yu Qingshan enjoyed a drink or two, though he wasn’t a heavy drinker. On special occasions, a small glass was enough to satisfy him. He drank sparingly not because he lacked the desire, but because their family’s circumstances didn’t allow for indulgence. He also knew better than to overdo it—too much alcohol could lead to trouble. A sip or two was enough to enjoy the moment.

The two bottles were Maotai, a premium liquor that required a certain rank to purchase. His father’s status qualified, so Lin Duzhong had some on hand. For this occasion, he brought two bottles.

All of this had been prepared by Lin Duzhong. After all, he wasn’t some stone-born orphan—with elders present, what role did a young man like him have to play?

Lin Duzhong was a man of refinement, speaking with warmth and grace. After just a few words, Yu Qingshan took a liking to him. The saying went, “When buying a pig, look at the pen.” Seeing Lin Duzhong’s demeanor, Yu Qingshan felt that Lin Chuanbai, raised under his guidance, couldn’t be too far off the mark.

With sensible elders above, parents-in-law living separately, and uncles and aunts already divided from the main household, his daughter would have a much easier life marrying into this family compared to others.

The conversation soon turned to the couple’s future—matters like the dowry, the bride’s family’s gifts, and how they would live together.

Lin Duzhong mentioned that they had already found a small courtyard in a certain location, negotiated the price, and would soon complete the transfer. They planned to demolish and rebuild it as their marital home. As for the betrothal gifts, since Lin Chuanbai already had a bicycle and a watch, they would provide a radio and a sewing machine, along with two hundred yuan.

Hearing this, Yu Qingshan was immediately pleased. Living separately was ideal—the young couple would have their own space. His daughter had mentioned that Lin Chuanbai’s second aunt wasn’t easy to get along with. Moreover, this was their family’s tradition: younger sons were expected to move out. Just like now—Lin Duzhong lived in the ancestral home, while the younger son’s house next door had been built later. The courtyard had even been expanded by purchasing neighboring properties. The ancestral home went to the eldest son, while the others built their own houses nearby or elsewhere.

Yao Cuifen kept her expression neutral but was inwardly satisfied. “What about their salaries…?”

“They’ll keep them for themselves. I have my pension, and their parents are still in their prime. Supporting them in old age is a matter for the future.”

“It’s only right for the young to take care of their elders. Whatever needs to be done will be done.”

Yu Qingshan assured them that all the betrothal gifts would be returned with his daughter—they wouldn’t keep anything. He was already preparing her dowry chest, which would include furniture and other essentials.

Lin Chuanbai only spoke at the beginning, then mostly stayed silent, nodding when needed and otherwise remaining quiet like a wooden figure. Lin Duzhong didn’t expect much from him and handled everything himself.

Yu Xiang’an spoke even less, with no room for her input. Even Yu Xianghai had little say—Yu Qingshan and Yao Cuifen dominated the conversation.

The discussion went smoothly. The wedding date wasn’t set yet since the house wasn’t ready, but it seemed likely to happen once construction was complete.

Yu Xiang’an: “…”

She wasn’t surprised. In these times, once two people took a liking to each other and started courting, marriage was usually the next step. There was no such thing as a years-long courtship.

Some couples met once, exchanged a few words, and married the next month—such cases weren’t rare.

Lin Chuanbai was visibly excited today. When their wedding was mentioned, he couldn’t help but glance at Yu Xiang’an, his joy overflowing. He was thrilled.

Yu Xiang’an returned his gaze.

She was happy too.

After they left, Yu Xiang’an asked her family, “What do you think?”

Yao Cuifen was the first to speak. “Not bad. He seems like an honest young man, not too slick with words. His grandfather is easy to get along with. As for his parents, just show them respect. They’re far away, so don’t expect too much from them. Don’t aim too high.”

“I’m not marrying him for his parents.”

“Good.”

Yao Cuifen smiled warmly. “Xiao An, the man you’ve chosen seems like someone you can build a life with. May your future be bright and prosperous.” She refrained from mentioning the misfortunes of Zhou Boyang and Ding Minxiu—this wasn’t the time for such talk.

Yu Xianghai also approved. “I chatted with him a bit. His attitude was good.” Compared to how Zhou Boyang had treated him, the difference was stark.

This was someone who genuinely wanted to be his brother-in-law.

The house Lin Duzhong had arranged was roughly halfway between the county hospital and the food factory, slightly closer to the hospital. There weren’t many options—they were lucky to find a seller at all.

The two rooms being sold were practically dilapidated. The original owner’s family had lived there, but now that they had been allocated new housing, they had moved out, leaving the place empty. The three rooms were made of mud bricks, but the courtyard was spacious, leaving room for expansion.

Yu Xiang’an and Lin Chuanbai eagerly began designing their future home.

They didn’t argue over the layout. The first floor would have a living room, kitchen, bathroom, guest room, and storage space. Upstairs would be their master bedroom, their respective studies, and another living area. For the exterior, they’d follow the norm—plain red brick with whitewashed interiors. The courtyard would have a wall, lined with fast-growing plants for privacy, while the inside could be used for herbs or vegetables. They’d also dig a well for easy water access.

As for the interior decor, though they claimed to discuss it together, Yu Xiang’an made most of the decisions.

Lin Chuanbai’s only requirements were a bed, a wardrobe, and a bookshelf in the study. The rest was up to her—he wasn’t picky.

Yu Xiang’an was the opposite. She loved the process of decorating their home. When the factory housing had been built, she had spent ages “dressing it up” with excitement.

Lin Duzhong covered the costs. He had plenty of money—his past salary, current pension, and contributions from his eldest son.

Xu Haili was green with envy. Building such a house would cost several hundred yuan. Add the sewing machine, radio, and two hundred yuan, and the total was nearly a thousand!

What kind of golden child were they marrying?

The other side wasn’t that impressive—just working under a deputy factory director and owning a house. Her father was just an ordinary worker.

With this precedent, how could her son ever afford such a dowry when he married?

He couldn’t.

The more Xu Haili thought about it, the more bitter she became.

Lin Chuanqiong sighed. “Mom, don’t compare like that. Uncle is a factory director—his rank is high.” His own father was just an ordinary worker.

Xu Haili’s eyes reddened. “Your father just isn’t capable.”

Lin Chuanqiong shook his head. “Mom, don’t say that. Our family is doing fine.”

When Yu Xiangqing heard the news, she grew anxious. She hadn’t been home in two or three months—how was her sister already getting married?

As someone who had been through it, she knew how emotions could cloud judgment. She pulled Yu Xiang’an aside. “Xiao An, are you sure you’re making this decision with a clear head? Do you really know what kind of person he is? What he shows you—is it just what he wants you to see? If one day you find out he’s deceived you, what will you do? If you realize he isn’t the man you thought he was, how will you handle it?”

“I’m not saying he’s a bad person, but I want you to be certain. The cost of regret is too high for women like us.”

Breaking up during courtship was one thing, but divorce after marriage was another. Remarrying meant settling for less—people who once looked down on you would suddenly feel entitled to judge.

The humiliation was unbearable.

Yu Xiang’an considered each question carefully. “You asked if I’ve thought this through. Yes, I’ve asked myself many times. I like him. Even I’m surprised by how suddenly this feeling came, but right now, seeing him makes me happy. I want to build a family with him.”

“I’ve also thought about what I’d do if he turned out to be a fraud—if his true nature was despicable. But there’s always a way out. Even if I regret it, I have the means to cut my losses. Other people’s opinions don’t matter to me. Does the law forbid divorce? No. My life is my own. If he proves to be vile, I’ll leave.”

“Fourth Sister, do you think if we split, I wouldn’t find someone else?”

Yu Xiangqing thought about her sister’s circumstances. Finding someone exceptional might be hard, but an average match wouldn’t be difficult.

“Then go ahead. Just remember, we’ll always be your family—your support. If you ever face problems, talk to us. Even if we can’t solve them, we can brainstorm together. Three heads are better than one. Don’t shoulder everything alone.”

Yu Xiangqing realized she had overthought things. So what if they divorced? Her own parents—both soldiers—had divorced. If they could, why couldn’t her sister?

If he ever mistreated her and refused to divorce, the Yu family had numbers on their side. They wouldn’t let him bully her.

“Have you set a date yet?”

“Not yet. There’s no rush—the house isn’t ready. No need to fix a day so soon.”

Suddenly, Yu Xiangqing felt a pang of sadness. The wedding wasn’t far off. Preparations took time, but not that much—building a house with enough manpower took a month or two, plus some time for decorating.

But given their past experiences, Yu Xiangqing couldn’t fully trust Lin Chuanbai. She discreetly asked an old classmate with a relative at the county hospital to check his reputation. Only after hearing positive feedback did she relax.

If he has been pretending all along, then there’s nothing to say—he’s so good at it that they can only suffer the loss. But if they’ve already found out that he’s problematic, then they need to cut their losses in time.

She will definitely find a way to delay and then seize the opportunity to expose his true colors.

Yu Changyou and the others were also shocked by the Lin family’s extravagance. At this time, the usual requirements for the groom were just one or two rooms as a marital home, but they were asking for a two-story house—an entire building just for the young couple. On top of that, they had to gather the “Four Big Items,” using a radio and a sewing machine as betrothal gifts, along with 200 yuan in cash.

When Xu Xiaojuan heard about these things, her mouth fell open, and she was momentarily stunned. Comparing her own dowry of just a few dozen yuan back then to the current 200 yuan, it was hard not to feel ashamed.

Not to mention the sewing machine and radio—having all four big items? What kind of heavenly life was this?

Because of this, Zhang Chahua took Yu Xiang’an’s hand and said, “You’re going to live a blessed life from now on. Cherish these good days.” Back when she got married, it was much simpler—just a set of clothes and some small odds and ends, and that was it.

Now, in the blink of an eye, she had a granddaughter getting married, and to such a good family at that.

Xu Xiaojuan listened with envy, hoping that one day their own place would develop just as well. Nowadays, the men in their brigade were already having an easier time finding wives compared to before. If things improved further, maybe even marrying a city girl wouldn’t be difficult.

The Yu family had no objections to the marriage. Men should marry when they come of age, and women should marry when they’re ready. At her age, getting married wasn’t considered early—some girls married as young as 16. She was 20 now, and the usual marrying age was around 18.

At 20, many were already mothers. Yu Xiangqing was a special case—she had been delayed in the countryside. Now, they were already helping her look for a match, but so far, she hadn’t found anyone suitable. Once she did, the wedding would happen quickly.

Generally, the older siblings married first, followed by the younger ones. But if the younger ones found their match first, there was no harm in them marrying earlier.

However, seeing that Yu Xiang’an’s future was settled, Zhang Chahua couldn’t help but grow anxious about Yu Xiangqing.

She was a year older than Xiang’an, already 21. In the countryside, no one remained unmarried at that age. But it was hard to find a match for her there.

How many workers of the same status were there in their area? They’d have to look in the commune or the county town.

Zhang Chahua pulled Yu Qingshan aside. “Do you have any plans for Xiaoqing? Another year will pass in the blink of an eye, and she’ll be 22.”

Yu Qingshan replied, “Mom, do you think I haven’t been trying? I introduced a few before, but she turned them all down. Let’s take it slow. Twenty-two isn’t that old. The more you push, the more she’ll resist. Even if we introduced a perfect match now, it wouldn’t work. Let her relax for now. I’ve asked someone to look into a potential match, and I’m waiting for news. I’ll let you know when I hear something.”

Hearing that he was making inquiries, Zhang Chahua felt a little more at ease. “As long as you have a plan in mind.”

On the Lin family’s side, Lin Houpu received a letter from his hometown.

Lin Duzhong explained the situation in the letter—his second grandson already had someone he liked. He had met the girl and thought she was a good match—a formal worker who had received commendations, was literate, and even had articles published in newspapers.

His previous suggestion of matching him with his comrade’s daughter was no longer feasible.

Lin Duzhong also wrote two separate letters—one to his former daughter-in-law and another to his eldest grandson in Shanghai—to inform them of the matter. This was a big deal, and they needed to know.

Lin Houpu opened the letter, skimmed through it, and frowned. *He already has someone he likes?*

And just when he had suggested setting him up with someone else? Was he deliberately trying to defy him? But after a moment’s thought, Lin Houpu dismissed the idea. His father wasn’t the type to be fooled. If this were just an excuse, the letter wouldn’t have been so straightforward.

So it really was just a coincidence—his son had found someone he liked.

His second son was about to start a family—that was good news. But then, what about Zhang Yue?

At the thought, he sighed.

He and her father had been comrades-in-arms, fighting side by side. Later, he left the military while her father stayed in service. Though they were in different places, they had always kept in touch. Then, out of nowhere, he received the tragic news of his friend’s death, leaving behind only these two children. They had come to him with their father’s letter.

Their mother had died in childbirth while delivering the younger brother. Their grandparents had already passed, leaving only an uncle and aunt—who turned out to be wolves in sheep’s clothing, only interested in exploiting them for personal gain.

With no other choice, Zhang Yue had brought her younger brother to seek refuge with him. Their father had once told them that if they ever faced hardship, they could turn to him—his closest comrade.

Lin Houpu had taken them in without hesitation. It was only right—his household could easily accommodate two more.

But while her younger brother was manageable, Zhang Yue was already a grown woman, and not unattractive. Having her live under the same roof required extra caution. His wife was particularly sensitive about this—she didn’t mind an extra child, but an 18-year-old girl was different.

His fallen comrade had already been given all the benefits due to him. The siblings had managed to escape their hometown with some money, but the rest had been seized by their uncle and aunt. If Zhang Yue hadn’t fled, she would have already been married off—to a bad family, from what he’d heard.

She couldn’t go back.

After spending time with her, Lin Houpu found Zhang Yue to be a gentle, obedient girl, just the right age for his second son. That was why he had considered arranging a match. But now, that plan had fallen through.

His father’s letter was already cheerfully discussing preparing betrothal gifts for his second son. If he objected now, his father would surely hold it against him. There was no reason to break up a happy couple—especially since the girl had a job and seemed talented.

He’d have to look into finding a promising young man in the factory to introduce to Zhang Yue later. Then, he’d prepare a dowry and marry her off properly.

As for Zhang Ying, he’d raise him alongside his youngest son until he came of age, then find him a job.

That way, his old friend’s spirit in the afterlife should be at peace.

Li Yujiao knew about this—it had been her idea in the first place, to avoid accusations of being an uncaring stepmother who neglected her stepson’s marriage prospects.

A high school graduate, matching in education and age, the daughter of a sworn comrade who had passed away—what could be more fitting?

But who would have thought the reply would say he already had someone in mind? And from the tone of the letter, the wedding was imminent—even asking if they’d return for it.

*”What a coincidence?”* She was skeptical, but she had seen the letter before it was sent. There was no hint of her involvement.

Still, it didn’t matter—the girl was just an ordinary worker from a small county town.

As for whether they’d return—of course not. Lin Houpu was too busy managing the factory, and she had her own job and child to look after. Where would they find the time?

Sending some money would suffice.

Lin Houpu hadn’t mentioned this to Zhang Yue, but Li Yujiao had “accidentally” let it slip once, so Zhang Yue knew.

Of course, she had been willing—marrying the son of a factory director would secure her future, and living here with her brother would be justified. But now, that was no longer possible.

Zhang Yue could sense the impatience beneath Li Yujiao’s outwardly kind demeanor.

She and her brother were freeloading here.

She grew restless.

Where could a woman like her go with her younger brother? She had no job, no income. The remaining money couldn’t be touched—it was their last resort.

What should she do? She couldn’t keep living off the Lin family forever.

Listening to them discuss what to send for Lin Chuanbai’s wedding, her grip on her chopsticks tightened.

That should have been *her* future.

Lin Houpu truly had no time to return—a round trip would take at least a month. He was so busy he barely had time to eat, let alone travel. With plans to expand the factory, he’d only get busier.

He hadn’t attended his eldest son’s wedding either, so missing this one wasn’t a big deal.

But while he couldn’t go in person, he had to show his sincerity. He was their father—this was his responsibility.

“The Four Big Items must be prepared. I wonder if my father has all the necessary coupons. The wristwatch coupon from last month is still here, right? I also have a refrigerator coupon—I’ll send that too.”

Li Yujiao’s hand stiffened. “The wristwatch coupon is still here. But refrigerators are expensive—even with the coupon, they might not buy one.” She had planned to use that coupon herself—to buy a better watch.

“It’s fine. I’ll send the money too and ask my sister to purchase it for them.”

Li Yujiao: “…” Even though she knew this would cost them, she couldn’t help feeling uneasy. “Besides that, weddings require many other things.”

“It’s fine. My salary is high.” He glanced at his lively five-year-old son. “The family savings were always meant for the children’s weddings. Now that the second son’s marriage is settled, it’s just him left. He won’t marry for another decade—plenty of time to save up again.”

Li Yujiao exhaled inwardly.

“True. We’ll save gradually. Since we’re not there with them, we should at least prepare money and gifts properly.”

This would drain their savings, but she couldn’t object.

Doing so would make her seem petty. Some things could be compromised—others couldn’t.

Some things couldn’t be bought with money—like power.

At that thought, she calmed down.

“By the way, about the Worker-Peasant-Soldier university quota I asked you to look into—any news?”

Li Yujiao smiled. “She hasn’t replied yet. I’ll ask again tomorrow.”

The more Zhang Yue listened, the tighter her grip became. Suddenly, driven by an impulse, she blurted out, “Uncle Lin, since you’re too busy to return, I have time. Why don’t I go back on your behalf?”