After three rounds of drinks, Li Chen and Tang Shan's Mother rose to take their leave.
The Tang Family hurried to their feet to see them off, escorting them all the way outside the estate gates.
Tang Yue and Tang Zhen exchanged a glance, each seeing a deeper meaning in the other's eyes.
Young Master Li had shown little interest in that treasured sword, but he had given their younger sister Tang Hongxiu a few extra looks.
Once Li Chen's carriage had disappeared into the distance, Tang Zhen immediately pulled Tang Hongxiu back into the Inner Court.
"Sister, you're not getting any younger. It's time you considered marriage," Tang Zhen said bluntly.
Tang Hongxiu's pretty face flushed slightly, and she lowered her head, fiddling with her sleeve. "I just haven't met anyone I like yet."
Tang Yue gently waved his folding fan and smiled. "What did you think of Young Master Li today?"
"Huh?" Tang Hongxiu's ears turned crimson. "It was only our first meeting. We hardly know each other. Besides, he's younger than me."
"What do you know!" Tang Zhen slapped his thigh. "A wife three years older brings a gold brick to hold! Young Master Li holds a high position in the Imperial Clan, and he has close ties with the Myriad Treasures Chamber of Commerce. If things work out between you, our Tang Family won't have to tread so carefully everywhere. We'd finally have someone backing us."
Tang Yue chimed in. "Little sister, our eldest sister-in-law arranged this especially for you. Miss this chance, and you might never find such a fine match again."
The two took turns pressing their case until Tang Hongxiu's face was burning red.
She bit her lip and said softly, "Then... then I'll give it a try. I'll dress up properly the