Chapter 268 - Chapter 268: Chapter 268: Inviting Miss Wei to Throw the (1/2)

Chapter 268: Chapter 268: Inviting Miss Wei to Throw the

Pot_l

Translator: 549690339 I

She hasn’t been betrothed yet, and if comments from Xiu Yaojun somehow compromise her reputation, it would not bode well.

So, in front of everyone, Wei Ruo made it clear that she and the Xiu family’s son were not betrothed, and Xiu Yaojun’s comments were merely a jest. Though Wei Ruo had no intention of marrying into a prestigious family, she did not want to be burdened with an undeserved reputation.

“How was I speaking recklessly? Everything I said was true. Or could it be that being betrothed to my brother is an inconvenience for you?” Xiu Yaojun was somewhat displeased.

Wei Ruo said calmly, “Marriage is no child’s play. Without the exchanging of betrothal gifts or formal inquiries, it cannot be considered a betrothal. The elders’ jests should not be taken seriously.”

Xiu Yaojun’s face instantly darkened, feeling offended.

Seeing Xiu Yaojun’s gloomy expression, everyone else dared not speak further. At this moment, Lady Yuan and the other two were a bit worried about Wei Ruo. They didn’t want Wei Ruo to irritate Xiu Yaojun. In Taizhou prefecture, those who offend Xiu Yaojun often end up facing difficulties.

Wei Ruo continued, “Given the Xiu son’s talents and virtues, he is indeed a rare gem. He deserves a better pairing, perhaps even with a noble lady from the capital. If the matter was already determined, it’s fine to discuss it. But if it’s not, spreading rumors not only does no good for me, but it’s also not favorable for the Xiu’s son.”

“Your remarks do make some sense,” Xiu Yaojun slightly cooled her temper, “After all, it would be indeed a step-up for a lady from the Wei family to marry my brother. I was quite surprised when my mother told me she was considering you as a candidate. Once my brother aces the exam this year, he would even be deserving of a Commandery Princess from the capital!” Xiu Yaojun continued, “Though the Wei family is of nobility, everyone is actually aware of the real situation. It’s good that you, at least, are self-aware enough not to act haughty as an heiress of the Earl Residence, unlike certain others.”

After finishing her speech, Xiu Yaojun shot a glance at Wei Qingwan from the corner of her eye.

Wei Ruo sighed inwardly. Xiu Yaojun was rather outspoken, her words perfectly aligning with the character Xiu Yaojun was speculated to have. If Wei Qingwan still had her heroine’s privileges, Xiu Yaojun’s unchecked remarks would certainly spell trouble for Wei Ruo.

But Wei Ruo was uninterested in further engaging with Xiu Yaojun. Firstly, Xiu Yaojun held contempt for her, and although Wei Ruo bore no grudge against her, she was not fond of her either. Secondly, Xiu Yaojun was rather stubborn, and no amount of reasoning would do.

Wei Qingwan, who was indirectly insulted by Xiu Yaojun, bowed her head, savoring the Wufeng tea that Chu Lan had just served, pretending she hadn’t heard anything.

Xiu Yaojun was satisfied, then her attention was drawn to the bustling noises outside.

The dragon boat race was in full swing, with crowds of spectators along the lake bank and numerous dragon boats fighting for the lead on the lake.

The sound of gongs and drums as well as cheering could be heard intermittently.

Wei Ruo savored her tea while idly watching through the window. She didn’t notice Wei Qingwan slipping away from the tea pavilion under the pretext of going to the restroom.

After quite a while, someone informed Xiu Yaojun that Wei Qingwan had not yet returned.

Xiu Yaojun scoffed, “Leave her be. She might have a stomach upset.” At this moment, the dragon boat race has reached its climax. The dragon boat of Anzhou Academy and that of Wei Yuan Trophies Bureau were at the forefront. The two dragon boats were neck and neck, and it was unclear who would secure the victory until the very last moment.

Xiu Yaojun was too engrossed in the exciting race to pay any attention to Wei Qingwan.

No one else said anything either and continued to watch the dragon boat race attentively.

At the very last moment, the dragon boat from Anzhou Academy slightly outstripped the other and crossed the finish line first, winning by a hair’s breadth.

Xiu Yaojun was overjoyed. She took off the pouch from her waist and gave it to her maid, instructing her to tip the servants at the Yusheng Tea House.

Xiu Yaojun then told everyone, “My elder brother will be coming to the Yusheng Tea House to rest with his schoolmates in a while.”