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Chapter Twenty-Seven: Forced Marriage

Miss Zhao Yu's fiery temper was well-known, but no one expected that she would even dare to defy the Madam and the Lord of the Fortress. In order to avoid marrying Lu Qingcheng, she compromised and abandoned the modesty and shyness that a young lady should have, and publicly pursued Qing Jianyue.

The incident caused a sensation throughout the entire Lu Family Fortress in less than half an hour. Zhao Yu's betrayal not only brought shame to Madam Lu but was also a great humiliation to Lu Qingcheng. Therefore, people were watching closely to see how the Madam and the Fortress Master would react. At the same time, they were also speculating about what would happen to Su Haibo, who was implicated. Of course, most people were waiting to see Su Haibo suffer, and they were eager to take his place as soon as he was overthrown.

That evening, Lu Qingcheng brought Qing Jianyue to the Su family home for dinner. Also present were Qingfeng, Bai Yiting and his daughter, Cai Bo'an and his wife, Zhou Yanhua, and Lei Yongxiang and his wife. There was also an unexpected guest, Liu Xicheng. Liu Xicheng had returned the previous night to report back, and thus naturally became one of the distinguished guests invited that evening.

At the banquet, Lu Qingcheng was witty and humorous, showing not a trace of displeasure. He displayed great magnanimity, not only refraining from reprimanding Su Haibo but also forgiving Zhao Yu's rude behavior. Those who had been eavesdropping to hear the news were all green with envy.

Throughout the entire banquet, Qing Jianyue smiled broadly at the table laden with delicious food, constantly stuffing his mouth full. Whatever Lu Qingcheng or Su Haibo was thinking seemed irrelevant to him.

Tonight, Su Haibo, contrary to his usual aloof and detached demeanor, engaged in lively and eloquent discussions, quoting classical texts and creating a very harmonious atmosphere at the banquet. Coupled with the hostess's attentive hospitality, the guests enjoyed a truly wonderful evening.

Qingfeng appeared casual and approachable, a radiant smile blooming on his handsome face, captivating the maids who lingered around him, constantly urging him to drink, ensuring his left-hand cup was always overflowing with fine wine. Occasionally, he discussed business matters with Su Haibo, earning Su Haibo's admiration. The diligent assistance of Bai Yiting and his daughter, and Cai Bo'an and his wife, further enhanced the harmonious relationship between the two sides.

After finishing a glass of wine, Liu Xicheng's cheeks were flushed with the smell of alcohol, and his fair face turned bright red under the lamplight. "Third Lord, what kind of show are they putting on? Can Qing Jianyue even get married?"

Lei Yongxiang glared at him. "That's enough. No more drinking. If you get drunk and cause trouble, I'll twist your head off. Also, watch your mouth. Tonight, you're not allowed to say anything except eat."

Liu Xicheng shook his head and said, "I just can't figure it out. What kind of show is the Lord of the Fortress putting on this time?"

“The lord has his own plans.” Lei Yongxiang placed some food in his wife’s bowl. “Are you feeling unwell? You haven’t been eating much these past two days.”

Yang Xueli leaned lazily against her husband's chest, her cheeks flushed, exuding a captivating charm like a blooming flower. She said sweetly, "I don't know why, but I just can't eat."

"Could she be sick?" Lei Yongxiang nervously touched his wife's forehead. "Let's ask a doctor to come and take a look tomorrow."

Yang Xueli smiled radiantly, her charm indescribable. Lei Yongxiang was captivated, pulling her even closer. Liu Xicheng chuckled, seemingly amused that this strong man had become a paper tiger in front of his wife. Zhou Yanhua, sitting opposite them, secretly observed this. Although she was happy for them and sincerely wished them well, the thought of being alone filled her with sadness. She sighed softly, and Grandma Cai, hearing this, glanced at her sister with melancholy, also feeling troubled.

A melodious and poignant melody filled the air, instantly silencing the banquet hall. Zhao Yu, dressed in a bright yellow embroidered silk dress and silk brocade shoes, emerged gracefully and alluringly. Her appearance was like the rising moon, radiant and captivating, instantly drawing everyone's attention. She first made a light and graceful movement, then her red lips parted slightly, releasing a soft and beautiful, ethereal song, as gentle as clouds and water.

"Waves ripple, willows sway, a lonely village nestled amidst fragrant grasses, apricot blossoms fluttering in the setting sun. Spring in Jiangnan ends, my heart aches with longing, duckweed fills the riverbank, but my beloved has not returned."

Listening to her sorrowful and beautiful singing voice evokes a picture in one's mind.

A vast expanse of clear water, misty and boundless, with willows swaying gently along its banks. A solitary little fishing village, bathed in the glow of the setting sun, appears serene and tranquil. The fragrant grasses are lush, the apricot blossoms have faded; spring in Jiangnan has passed, and the islet is covered in white duckweed. But my beloved, who has traveled far away, has not yet returned; how can I not be filled with longing and unresolved sorrow?

Upon hearing this, Zhou Yanhua was overcome with sorrow and couldn't help but secretly shed tears.

Zhao Yu's captivating eyes shone with the pain of unrequited love. She was confused, troubled, and tormented by unrequited love. But Qing Jianyue knew perfectly well that her troubles weren't for him, but for someone else. Who could that person be?

Kiyoshi glanced at Lu Qingcheng instinctively, only to find that Lu Qingcheng was also looking at him. Their eyes met, and for some reason, they both felt a jolt in their hearts.

It wasn't him; that person wasn't him.

Lu Qingcheng suddenly raised the corner of her mouth, revealing a strange smile, as if she knew what he was thinking.

Qingjian Yue's face inexplicably flushed, and he turned to look at Qingfeng. Interestingly, Qingfeng was also looking at him, and was quite drunk.

It wasn't Qingfeng either. Since she hadn't returned, her lover certainly wasn't in the fortress. So who could it be? Qing Jianyue pondered: There are currently four lords who haven't returned from their missions outside: the fourth lord Cai Zhonghe, the fifth lord Li Anguo, the sixth lord He Zhiqiang, and the eighth lord Du Fangwei.

Du Fangwei and Bai Tuzi were childhood sweethearts and had a marriage agreement, so it couldn't be him. Of the remaining three—Cai Zhonghe, Li Anguo, and He Zhiqiang—Cai Zhonghe is the best in terms of talent, looks, and social standing.

After the song ended, everyone applauded and cheered.

Kiyomi Tsukie frowned slightly: Could it be a handsome older brother?

Zhao Yu swayed gracefully as she approached, smiling sweetly, "Greetings to Young Master Jianyue."

Qingjian Yue calmly rose to return the greeting, "Ha, may Miss Zhao enjoy her blessings."

A white fox suddenly appeared, jumped onto the table, and wagged its tail and howled.

Kiyoshi was startled, grabbed it and shoved it under the table, saying apologetically, "Miss Zhao, please don't be offended, it's just too naughty."

Zhao Yu smiled charmingly, "It's okay, it's so cute."

With a whoosh, the white fox crawled out from under the table, rubbing its body against Zhao Yu's leg in an extremely fawning manner, and making a pleasant chirping sound.

Zhao Yu asked eagerly, "Can I hold it?"

"It will get you dirty."

Kiyoshi tried to dissuade her, but she had already bent down. The white fox eagerly jumped into her arms, its pointed mouth agape with delight.

Miss Zhao Yu's breasts are so beautiful and soft; it feels so comfortable to lean against them. Alas, it's a pity that the little fox cub is less than a year old. If it were a thousand-year-old fox spirit, it would surely turn into its master and devour Miss Zhao Yu from head to toe.

Kiyomi Tsuki was furious. That lecherous fox, she'd definitely teach him a lesson sometime.

“Young Master Jianyue, I heard you’re twenty-three years old. You’re getting on in years; it’s time to get married. You know, one should settle down before building a career. It’s clear that every man needs a virtuous wife to support him.” Mrs. Su snuggled into her husband’s arm and said coquettishly, “Husband, don’t you think so?”

Su Haibo gazed at his wife with deep affection, smiling without saying a word.

Kiyoshi's eyes were glazed over, and he didn't even realize he'd put his finger in his mouth.

“Young Master Jianyue, although my sister is a bit fiery, she is an incredibly kind and considerate girl. Besides, with her looks, she's one of a kind. You should be careful, or you might miss your chance.” Mrs. Su glared at him. “So, have you made up your mind?”

Zhao Yu chuckled, "Young Master Jianyue, how old are you? Still sucking your fingers?"

Kiyomi blinked a few times, and it took her a while to realize what was happening. She hurriedly pulled her finger out of her mouth, looking embarrassed.

The crowd burst into laughter.

Qingjian Yue blushed and said, "Everything you said, sister, is good, but raising a wife costs a lot of money."

Mrs. Su seemed afraid that her sister wouldn't be able to get married, and kept saying, "It's okay, it's okay, we'll give her a bigger dowry."