Reborn as the Blissful Wife in the countryside Chapter 1269: Zhong Dummy
Previously on Reborn as the Blissful Wife in the countryside...
Mrs. Zeng felt a surge of fury, wishing she could strangle Mrs. Chen on the spot. Mrs. Chen, with her knack for creating discord, had clearly instigated the situation with her venomous remarks. Now that Xu Ling had been provoked into causing a scene, Mrs. Chen had the audacity to feign innocence.
However, Elder Xu proved unexpectedly enthusiastic, grasping his hand and launching into conversation the moment they met.
Zhong Yu felt a flicker of discomfort and tried to pull his hand away, but Elder Xu immediately re-secured his grip.
"Young Master Zhong is indeed a distinguished young master; how could I not recognize you?" Elder Xu declared with evident delight, causing Zhong Yu's expression to darken.
Having joined the army, he preferred his identity to remain unrevealed, wary of receiving special treatment due to his background.
Qin San Lang chuckled inwardly, thinking, 'Ah, you came here to flaunt your presence, didn't you? Now you've gone and tripped over your own feet.'
Elder Xu continued, "Young Master Zhong has made a special trip here. You must be weary. Please, come inside with me to eat and drink, and take a good rest." Elder Xu's eagerness was palpable, clearly concerned that Zhong Yu might be tired or hungry.
A special trip? This Young Master was merely passing through with Qin. Exhausted? Underestimating me, are you? This Young Master's physique is far beyond ordinary; how could I possibly be exhausted?
Nevertheless, maintaining the decorum befitting his noble upbringing, Zhong Yu managed a smile for Elder Xu. "Thank you, sir. My brothers are hungry; I would trouble you to prepare two tables for them."
"Rest assured, Young Master Zhong, I shall have arrangements made immediately," Elder Xu replied. He then turned to Uncle Xu, his tone sharp, "Why are you just standing there? Hurry and prepare two top-grade tables for them! Ensure the military officers are well-fed and watered!"
The displeased tone seemed to vent some of the frustration caused by Xu Ling's earlier actions onto Uncle Xu.
"Yes," Uncle Xu responded, though with a hint of reluctance. He had harbored a desire to stay and converse with Zhong Yu, considering him rather naive and easy to get along with. Perhaps if he could establish a good connection, he might even arrange for Xu Ling to marry into the Zhong family as a concubine.
For a family of the Xu family's standing, having a daughter become a concubine in the Zhong family would be seen as a significant social advancement.
"Thank you!!" The soldiers voiced their gratitude loudly, jolting Uncle Xu back to the present. He hastily began making arrangements for the meals, fearing any delay might lead to the men, ravenous with hunger, causing trouble.
"Young Master Zhong, come, let us proceed inside to eat and converse," Elder Xu stated, not waiting for Zhong Yu's assent and practically pulling him towards the guest hall.
Zhong Yu felt a sense of helplessness, casting a pleading look towards Qin San Lang for assistance.
However, Qin San Lang remarked, "Brother Zhong, today is the day the Gu and Xu families are finalizing their betrothal. Since you are here, you must present a gift. Otherwise, people might say the Prefecture garrison and the Zhong family are lacking in etiquette."
Zhong Yu was taken aback, turning to look at Qin San Lang. 'I came here to show off to you; I didn't bring a gift! How am I supposed to present one now?!'
Yet, as a son of the Zhong family, enjoying the privileges that came with it, he held the family's reputation dear. Furthermore, his role as a soldier instilled a sense of duty to uphold the honor of the camp. Qin San Lang's words struck a sensitive chord. For the sake of the camp's and the Zhong family's reputation, he had no choice but to retrieve a Jade Pendant. Handing it to Elder Xu, he said, "I came in haste and was unaware of the Xu family's joyous occasion. This Xu Family Pendant shall serve as my gift to your esteemed family."
Qin San Lang felt a pang of distress. This 'Zhong Dummy' had actually used the Zhong Family Token as a gift! If Master Zhong were to find out, he would surely be furious.