The wedding had reached its midpoint, and the proceedings were surprisingly brisk. Compared with all those elaborate formalities, Wang Xiaoliang's wedding reception could practically be called minimalist.
Originally, even the officiant's remarks and the elders' speeches had been left out. Shangguan Rui's spur-of-the-moment idea had forced them back into the program.
Xiao Mo's seniority spoke for itself. He was the oldest of their generation, and he could reasonably count as a workplace leader too. The job of officiant could only go to him.
He stepped onto the stage and took the microphone, utterly composed.
"Today, Xiaoliang and Zijin are getting married. Standing here, I have just one thing to say." Xiao Mo's voice was steady. "From now on, build a solid life together, and talk things over when something comes up. Really, all the friends and family here can rest completely easy about these two. Their relationship couldn't be better. Now, I solemnly declare the marriage of Wang Xiaoliang and Wei Zijin legally valid."
Short and sweet. Applause rang out across the room.
Xiao Mo ambled off the stage, and the host, Zeng Haiyan, continued.
"Thank you, President Xiao, for officiating. Next, let's invite Mr. Hu Yang to the stage as the family representative to say a few words to the newlyweds."
At the main table, Hu Yang was leaning back in his chair. Hearing his name, he didn't get up right away. Instead, he turned his head and reached over to pinch Shangguan Rui's cheek.
Shangguan Rui smiled at him, making no attempt to hide the success of her little scheme.
Hu Yang smiled back without the slightest hint of blame. He stood, straightened his clothes, and walked onto the stage.
He took the microphone Zeng Haiyan handed him and nodded to her in acknowledgment. Standing in the center