When word of this reached Zhou Yunshen and Qing'er's parents, all three wore quite spectacular expressions.
Zhou Yunshen looked the pair over. No matter how he looked at it, his son seemed like the one on top.
In the end, their family had gotten the better deal.
Qing'er's parents were not nearly so calm. After three days of silence, they finally erupted.
In the end, they agreed that Zhou Yunshen would provide a bride price. Even if their identities prevented them from holding a wedding, their only child must not be shortchanged.
Zhou Yunshen readily agreed.
Marriage was marriage, no matter whom one married. Marrying Qing'er would only bring their families closer together. Why not?
Only Qing'er was unhappy, thumping Zhou Sesong several times. "I'm telling you, I'm not marrying into your family. You're marrying into mine! The bride price counts as you paying for the privilege, understand?"
Zhou Sesong scratched her ear, looking a little aggrieved. "What difference does it make? We're together anyway. Do we really need to draw a line between yours and mine?"
"No! I'm a grown man. At most, you're the little wife I keep. If you don't agree, I'm leaving with my father tomorrow!"
"I agree, I agree! I'll agree to anything you say, Qing'er! I'll give you my private savings too!"
Zhou Sesong took her hand and nuzzled her arm coyly.
Qing'er nodded in satisfaction. Next time, she would be the one on top!
By the time Liu Shuyue finished arranging her eldest daughter's engagement banquet, the New Year was almost upon them.
With a rare moment to spare, she set aside some time to find New Year's gifts for her two future daughters-in-law.
Hearing that a Many Treasures House had opened and was currently offering discounts, she immediately took the two little