Lin Yue listened to this Shen Huizhi and thought he sounded like the man he had often encountered before. Yet, upon further reflection, it didn’t quite match. Having met so many times, if he intended to propose, he would have done so long ago. Why wait until now? If not for some unexpected turn of events, he would have been married by now. It couldn’t be him.

But why another scholar? Had he stumbled into some kind of scholar colony lately? Just thinking about that beanpole named Shang made him feel like he was developing a prejudice against the entire scholarly class. As the saying goes, “The most righteous are often the butchers, while the most faithless are the scholars.” How true that was.

Lin Yue noticed his mother had also developed a shadow over her face. The moment she heard the word “scholar,” the smile faded from her lips.

Matchmaker Li was a master at reading people. Seeing the family’s shifting expressions, which seemed dissatisfied, her heart immediately sank.

Though Scholar Shen had made it clear when he came that the match didn’t have to succeed, the earnest intent to propose must be shown. At the very least, the whole village should know someone came to the Lin family today to discuss marriage.

Yet in all her years as a matchmaker, she’d never received such generous payment and gifts. Scholar Shen’s words were both pleasing and sincere, and the Lin family’s ger seemed promising. She truly hoped this match would come to fruition.

Matchmaker Li remained tense, yet her tone softened considerably. “My family is also from Linshui Village, and we have ties with the Shen family. The Shen household is known for its upright values. Shen Huizhi’s parents are easygoing people, especially his mother—she’s exceptionally gentle. There won’t be many friction points in daily interactions.”

“As for Shen Huizhi, he passed the tongsheng exams years ago. I hear he studies diligently. He might even become a Xiucai this year. Plus, he’s down-to-earth. The farmwork can’t run without him. Unlike those bookworms who study without achieving anything, neglect the fields, and just wave their sleeves around spouting Confucian nonsense—utterly contemptible.” “

Lin Yue listened in amazement. Matchmaking truly wasn’t for just anyone. In the blink of an eye, she’d spun a tale of praise, even introducing contrasting figures for comparison. Truly remarkable.

Matchmaker Li kept glancing at Lin Yue. Seeing his growing interest, her eyes lit up. She recalled that young men always cared about appearances, especially one as strikingly handsome as this Lin ger—he didn’t look like a farmhand at all. If not for the calluses on his hands, she might’ve mistaken him for a pampered young master.

Recalling Shen Huizhi’s appearance in her mind, Madam Li continued her introduction: “The Shen family’s young man is also handsome. His eyes and brows are sharp and spirited—sword-like brows and starry eyes. His features are well-proportioned and angular. Standing next to Young Master Lin, they’d make a fine pair. It’s just that his complexion can’t compare to Young Master Lin’s—he’s darkened from working in the fields.”

Lin Yue suddenly chuckled upon hearing this. Whether it was because he’d never heard a matchmaker speak this way before or simply found it odd, he couldn’t tell. Wasn’t the point of such introductions to highlight only strengths? Yet here she was, pointing out flaws.

But the description really did match that person. Could it be him?

Zhou Wenlan, who had been listening quietly beside him, finally spoke up after Matchmaker Li paused. Her expression softened considerably, and even Lin Yuan asked a couple of questions—evidently still shaken from yesterday’s incident.

What does this mean? It means there’s hope!

Matchmaker Li’s heart settled halfway. She hurriedly added, “If your family is interested, we can come tomorrow to present the betrothal gifts and propose marriage. Or if you’d prefer to meet the Shen family’s young master first before deciding, that’s also fine. Please feel free to state any requirements your family may have. The betrothal gifts are already prepared. No matter which day you choose for the betrothal ceremony, we can handle everything smoothly.”

Zhou Wenlan had been startled several times that morning. While it was natural for suitors to be eager, this was excessive. Could there be something wrong?

Her brow furrowed at the thought. Forgetting subtlety, she asked directly, “How is the young man from the Shen family’s health? Could he have some hidden ailment? Why the rush?”

Her suspicion was understandable. Just yesterday, her household had been thrown into turmoil, and today this suitor arrived with the matchmaker in a fluster, demanding a marriage proposal.

Early that morning, she had barely risen when the sound of gongs and drums erupted outside. She feared her family had offended someone who now sought to cause trouble, aiming to humiliate them. She had even prepared weapons— a thick one with spikes, placed within easy reach behind the door. Fully prepared, she held her breath and cautiously opened the door. There stood the matchmaker, clutching a red handkerchief, grinning so widely her teeth were barely visible. Even now, she couldn’t bear to recall the feeling that moment when she opened the door…

Madam Li was startled by the question. Under Zhou Wenlan’s piercing gaze, she quickly reviewed her words. Nothing was amiss—she’d merely been a bit more attentive than usual… Could it really be that her extra care had caused misunderstandings?

Surely not.

Unable to think of any other reason, the matchmaker stuck to this explanation. “Don’t worry, there’s nothing to it. The Shen family lad is tall and sturdy, perfectly healthy. Not only does he have no hidden ailments, but he rarely even gets sick. I asked about all this before coming. It’s just that he’s three or four years older than your ger, so he’s a bit more eager.”

Zhou Wenlan didn’t say whether she believed it, only nodding.

She and Lin Yuan exchanged a glance. After years of marriage, they understood each other implicitly. A single look conveyed their mutual understanding.

Zhou Wenlan looked at the matchmaker, her tone hesitant yet her expression resolute. “We appreciate the sincerity you and the Shen family have shown. But this marriage isn’t a game. We need to consider it carefully. Compatibility is one thing, but the children’s feelings matter too. We wouldn’t want them to become bitter partners later. If the Shen family is willing to wait, we’ll give you our answer after a few days of consideration.”

Matchmaker Li hadn’t expected an immediate agreement. Hearing this, she felt no surprise. After all, marriage proposals—especially for a young ger renowned far and wide for his good looks—often required multiple attempts.

“I understand your point, sister. Marriage is a weighty matter that warrants careful consideration. When would be a suitable time for me to return? Or perhaps we could arrange for the young couple to meet from a distance first? Though such a custom isn’t traditional, having elders present would prevent any gossip.”

Zhou Wenlan refused without hesitation. If word got out, Yue-ger’s reputation would be ruined.

Matchmaker Li couldn’t think of another solution on the spot. Just as she was about to try persuading Zhou Wenlan further, she was cut off by a single sentence.

“Then let us meet. We can see each other clearly. If we don’t suit each other, we can cut our losses early and avoid unnecessary trouble.”

Lin Yue’s words stunned everyone in the room.

Zhou Wenlan was the first to snap out of it. She shot to her feet. “No! What nonsense are you spouting? Don’t you understand the power of gossip?”

Seeing Zhou Wenlan’s finger nearly jab Lin Yue’s forehead, Lin Yuan hurriedly pulled her back. “Calm down first. Let’s hear what the child has to say.”

Lin Yue didn’t speak immediately. Instead, he nodded to Madam Li, the matchmaker. “Please take a seat.” Then, he led Zhou Wenlan into the bedroom.

Closing the door, Lin Yue smiled. “Father, Mother, I don’t want to marry someone I know nothing about. This man at least seems responsible—he wouldn’t ruin my reputation. If we find a suitable match, let’s settle it. Otherwise, people will think I’m heartbroken over that Shang fellow and refuse to remarry. Besides, I don’t want to be constantly mentioned alongside him. It’s just bad luck!”

Zhou Wenlan felt a wave of panic wash over her. Her heart burned with hatred for the Shang family, and she bitterly regretted her poor judgment in allowing her daughter’s marriage to suffer such hardship.

Unaware of her mother’s turmoil, Lin Yue noticed the redness in her eyes and grew anxious himself. “Mother, don’t worry. If you don’t approve, I won’t do anything rash.”

Zhou Wenlan sighed, ruffling Lin Yue’s hair. “I’ll trust your judgment. You’ve always been decisive since childhood. Making your own marriage decisions isn’t wrong. But I must accompany you to the meeting. You’re not allowed to speak to him. If you have questions, tell me beforehand, and I’ll ask for you.”

“I’ll do as you say.”

Seeing that the mother and son had made up their minds, Lin Yuan said no more. He only looked at Lin Yue and said, “Since you’ve made your decision, and your father and I aren’t opposed, we’ll be there no matter how the meeting goes. Don’t be afraid.”

The family of three returned to the main hall after their discussion. Zhou Wenlan wasted no time and addressed Matchmaker Li directly: “Tomorrow at the fourth hour, have that Shen family lad pass by outside the courtyard. He needn’t linger. I’ll instruct Yue’s younger ger to wait outside. Come back early the day after tomorrow. Regardless of the outcome, I’ll give you an answer.”

Madam Li was taken aback. This arrangement seemed to be Lin-ger’s idea, and what was more astonishing was that the Lin couple had actually agreed. Such a scene was unprecedented—the Lin family truly was extraordinary.

Her mind raced with thoughts, yet her expression remained composed. Clearing her throat, she spoke firmly, “I shall return at once to inform the Shen family. Tomorrow, the two young people shall meet. I shall return to your doorstep the day after tomorrow.”

“If it’s meant to be, the betrothal ceremony will be held three days hence. Rest assured, in my many years as a matchmaker, I’ve seen countless unions succeed. On the rare occasion it doesn’t work out, both families part ways amicably—never a single incident.”

Zhou Wenlan still felt uneasy. She reluctantly asked once more about the Shen family’s circumstances before seeing the matchmaker out.

No sooner had she stepped out of the courtyard than Matchmaker Li summoned the two young men. Gongs clanged and drums pounded, creating an atmosphere of pure joy—every sign pointed to the match being sealed.

Dong dong qiang, dong dong qiang…

Zhou Wenlan choked back a sob. She didn’t want to see the people outside or hear their chatter. Slamming the door shut, she retreated to the main hall.

Inside, Lin Yang was bombarding Lin Yue with questions, wearing him down. Spotting Zhou Wenlan enter, Lin Yang turned to ask her something, only to be pushed away abruptly.

Lin Yang glanced between his brother and mother, utterly confused about whether the match was settled or not. Unfortunately, neither had time for him. Finally, Lin Yuan spoke up, motioning Lin Yang to step outside to talk.

Left alone with his mother, Lin Yue couldn’t help but notice the bewildered expression on her face—it was strangely amusing. Dragging a stool over, he sat before her and offered another round of reassurance.

By the time they sorted through the matter, the entire morning had passed, and it was time to prepare lunch.

Zhou Wenlan had planned for the family to work the fields today, finishing up the tasks on both plots. But after wasting the morning, they wouldn’t get it all done. Remembering the farmwork, she forgot all about the settled matter. She busied herself, ordering Lin Yang to tend the fire, directing Lin Yue to cook, and even sending Lin Yuan off to chop wood. The whole family was kept running around like chickens with their heads cut off.

Lin Yue felt the family’s emotional swings these past two days had been far too extreme. This wasn’t good—it could easily harm their health. He decided to prepare a dish to clear the heat from their bodies. With the day being hot, it would also serve as a welcome refreshment.