Li Dayong's wedding banquet was held at the biggest restaurant in the capital, which would have been one thing, but the banquet hall had also been decorated in an ancient-style theme, even featuring a backdrop symbolizing the Magpie Bridge.
This arrangement did not fit at all with the hard work and plain living that had been championed inland over the past few years, so many guests clicked their tongues in amazement the moment they entered.
"He really is a big boss from Hong Kong! He's truly marrying off his girl like a princess! I wonder whether that Li kid can bear such good fortune."
"He can bear it. The grander the spectacle here, the more it proves how much they value this marriage—and how much they value us inland."
"Damn, now that you mention it, I almost didn't catch on."
There were quite a few guests today. Besides Li Dayong's relatives, there were his classmates, colleagues, and even teachers. Naturally, some among them had seen through it.
But Fan Chunhua definitely was not one of them.
She stared blankly at the banquet hall before her. After a long while, she gritted her teeth and asked Wang Jianqiang, "Qiangzi, go ask how much it costs to hold a banquet here for one day. Your father and I will scrape it together for you."
Wang Jianqiang had long gone numb to his old mother's urge to compare herself with others. He said coldly, "This place has to be booked months in advance. Having money won't help."
"Then go ask Li Ye for help!" Fan Chunhua said unwillingly. "Isn't Li Ye a cadre in the capital? Have him find someone and put in a word."
Wang Jianqiang slowly shook his head. "I'm not that thick-skinned. I can't do something like slapping my face