The sky gradually darkened.
A man and woman walked hand in hand through the dim bamboo grove. The tiny space beneath their green oil-paper umbrella became the warmest little world for two.
After returning from paying respects to her parents, Luo Ning looked much more relaxed, as though she had brought her sweetheart home to meet them and received their approval. She said nothing when Ye Jingtang held her hand, and even interlaced her fingers with his.
Ye Jingtang swung their joined hands. Seeing that Ning'er was in a good mood, he thought for a moment, then leaned close to her ear.
"We've bowed to heaven and earth and paid respects to your parents. Isn't it time to enter the bridal chamber?"
Luo Ning's steps briefly faltered. She blinked, then released their interlaced fingers and put on a displeased expression.
"You were talking nonsense during the offerings just now. I only played along in front of my parents because I didn't want you to lose face..."
Ye Jingtang had known Ning'er would go back on her word. He promptly assumed the bearing of her fiancé, put an arm around her waist, and started walking back.
"How can you say one thing and mean another when reporting to your parents? Come on, let's go back and clear things up."
?
Luo Ning would never dare lie before her parents' graves. Naturally, she refused to go back and pulled Ye Jingtang to a stop.
"Since I've said it, how could I go back on my word...? But that was only a betrothal, not a wedding ceremony. What bridal chamber are you talking about?"
Only then did Ye Jingtang stop. He turned to face her, wrapped his arms around her waist to draw her against his chest, and lowered his head to meet