Chapter 20: Your Man Is Bound to Be Ruined Sooner or Later
“Do you have any other questions?” Wen Zongfu squinted at her, feeling that something was off since she kept referring to her cousin.
Jiang Mi shook her head, the knot in her heart loosening considerably. She changed the subject, “You sober up pretty fast.”
“I didn’t drink much. I was just pretending. Otherwise, everyone in your family would have passed out—that wouldn’t look good, right?” He chuckled and lay back under her blanket.
Wen Zongfu glanced around her room. Though not very new, the bed and bedding were clean, the windows bright, and a desk and built-in cupboards were neatly arranged.
It was clear she was well-loved at home. Having met her parents once, he knew they were honest folks who only wished the best for their daughter.
He thought highly of these in-laws—the first time he truly approved of his mother’s taste.
Jiang Mi found his act of feigning drunkenness a bit much but was glad he hadn’t drunk too much, especially since Mrs. Wen had reminded him to drink less early that morning.
She poked his arm, “If you’re not drunk, get up. It’s best to head back before sunset.”
“Don’t want to stay home longer?” Wen Zongfu teased, thinking she might be reluctant to leave.
Feigning thoughtfulness, Jiang Mi said, “Fine, then why don’t you go back, and I’ll stay a couple more days.”
“You dare!” Wen Zongfu pulled her close instantly, threatening, “You’ve got some nerve. If I accompany you home but end up going back alone, people will think I’m useless. Can’t even bring my wife home for a visit.”
“I’m joking,” Jiang Mi said awkwardly, itching to pull away from his touch, but he held on tighter.
As she squirmed, she accidentally pressed against him in certain places. Wen Zongfu stiffened, his expression darkening.
Feeling his heavier breathing, Jiang Mi looked up and met his restrained gaze. Her face flushed instantly as she sensed something unspoken. She sprang up and distanced herself quickly.
Wen Zongfu bent forward to regain control. A man in his twenties with his soft, fragrant wife in his arms suddenly had his mind flooded with those thoughts.
After three days of discomfort, seeing the culprit avoiding him so earnestly made him laugh bitterly, “Jiang Mi, you’re really going to wear me down.”
Jiang Mi blushed even more at his tone, feeling embarrassed.
“If this keeps up, your husband will be useless sooner or later.”
His coarse words hinted at something more. Not wanting to continue the conversation, Jiang Mi hurriedly opened the door and slipped out, even saying, “Go cool off and calm down.”
Wen Zongfu was speechless; she was utterly beyond his reach.
When Jiang’s parents returned, they gave her a long lecture. Her mother kept telling her that after marriage, she couldn’t be so headstrong and must discuss everything with the family.
They all knew she was strong-willed but feared her independent nature might upset the Wen family.
Jiang’s parents were honest and kind-hearted. Finally, her father asked what her plans were—whether she intended to find a job or...
Jiang Mi candidly told her parents and brother, “I plan to continue studying.”
“Studying?” Jiang’s family glanced worriedly at Wen Zongfu, who was sipping tea to sober up.
Wen Zongfu set down his cup and explained, “My family supports her decision.”
But marrying and continuing education meant expenses and delayed childbirth. Usually, in-laws wouldn’t allow their daughter-in-law to keep studying. They worried because the Wen family had agreed, so they still looked concerned.
Jiang Mi sighed and gave Wen Zongfu a meaningful look; no matter what she said, her parents wouldn’t feel at ease.
Wen Zongfu shot her a loaded glance before stepping in to help, “Mom, Dad, big brother, we’re doing fine financially. Mi doesn’t need to work. If she wants to study, that’s great—she can gain knowledge. My parents think she’s more driven than I am. If we can have a college graduate in the family, it’ll be a pride for the Wens. I’m not cut out for school, but now Mi can fulfill my parents’ dream.”