Liu Acheng actually understood Shen Jin's loss of composure and helplessness... He himself felt that once he passed this village, there would be no other shop like it. How could the other man feel any differently?
The problem was, from what Liu Acheng had observed of Xi Jiabin, he really was a first-rate scion of the great clans, with ideals, drive, and brains. Besides, his original purpose in marrying now was to put his parents at ease, which made him even less likely to do such a thing while fetching his bride, even if it was only a verbal promise.
And Liu Acheng could hardly give his consent either.
"Acheng, what if I asked you to speak to the young master of the Xi Family first and secure his agreement, then sent her over after the wedding?" Even after his spirits sank, Shen Jin was clearly unwilling to give up, and asked earnestly again.
"No. You don't understand. Jiabin is marrying now to put Xi Linhai and Lady Fu at ease. Never mind that he has no such intention-even if he did, he wouldn't act at the risk of angering his elders." Liu Acheng shook his head repeatedly, his heart bleeding. This was a Shen Family Daughter! If he could marry her now, he really could spare himself ten years of struggle. But he could only hold himself back.
At last, Shen Jin had nothing left to say.
Liu Acheng could only cup his hands and take his leave, though he had to steel himself to add, "I'll still have to trouble you with transporting my clansman's supplies, Brother Shen. Thank you for your efforts."
Shen Jin was plainly dejected beyond measure. Without even raising his head, he merely waved a hand. "Why bring this up again and again? Would