Ch 78: Is There Really Such a Good Thing? [QT]

The news of Shen Yunxuan marrying into a town family quickly spread through the village, creating a buzz. Shen Yunxuan’s prospects weren’t considered great in the village—she only had a middle school education, unlike Shen Xuewei, who graduated from high school and could be called “cultured.” She was dark-skinned, thin, and deemed frail, making her seem unsuitable for childbearing. Her quiet demeanor and tendency to keep her head down while working didn’t win her favor either; many villagers found her unlikable and even unlucky.

Adding to this, her parents’ clear favoritism towards her siblings left her without familial support, and few families in the village saw her as a desirable match. Previously, a family with modest conditions had shown interest, but the Shen family demanded a bride price of 200 yuan, and the match fell through. Most people assumed she’d end up staying home as a spinster. Who would’ve thought she’d end up marrying into a town family?

Curious villagers gathered to learn more about the Xiao family. Hearing they had four working adults in stable jobs, people overlooked Xiao Jun’s idle behavior—after all, city jobs came with salaries. Four working adults meant significant income!

Moreover, their jobs came with perks. A chef could bring food home, a textile factory worker could get fabric, and a supply and marketing cooperative employee could access various goods. Even teachers could bring home pens and notebooks. These positions were highly coveted, and the Xiao family was clearly well-off.

On top of that, town residents received monthly ration tickets and oil allowances. One family had even saved enough oil and salted duck eggs to fill small barrels, a luxury unattainable in the village. With four working adults, the Xiao family must have accumulated a fortune. Shen Yunxuan was marrying into a life of comfort! No one in the village had ever secured such a favorable marriage—she was truly lucky!

However, some villagers found it odd. Didn’t the Shen family dislike their eldest daughter? How did she end up with such a good match? Inevitably, the conversation turned to how Shen Xuewei’s marriage to Xing Kai left the Xiao family’s good match available for Shen Yunxuan. By this logic, Shen Yunxuan owed Shen Xuewei her gratitude.

While the village buzzed with chatter, the Shen family’s mood was sour. Grandmother Shen was furious upon learning that the Xiao family wasn’t giving any cash and that they had to provide a dowry instead. When she found out they had actually published a severance notice in the newspaper, she pointed at Shen Yunxuan and began scolding, “You ungrateful, heartless thing! You disgraceful wretch!”

Unbothered, Shen Yunxuan went straight to her room.

Shen Xuewei, her good mood ruined, scrutinized Shen Yunxuan and asked, “Why did you insist on severing ties?”

While packing her belongings, Shen Yunxuan replied, “I’m afraid you’ll change your mind and come after the Xiao family, using our sisterhood as an excuse to seduce my husband. Severing ties means you won’t have an excuse to visit.”

Shen Xuewei’s face flushed red with anger. She hadn’t expected such an accusation. Furious, she snapped, “Are you insane? I gave up on the Xiao family because I thought it through! I’m going to live a good life with Xing Kai. Why would I seduce that good-for-nothing? You’re crazy!”

Shen Yunxuan shrugged indifferently. “I’m just being cautious. Remember what you said today—don’t ever step foot in the Xiao household or contact us again.”

On the verge of hitting her, Shen Xuewei stormed out, slamming the door. She shouted at Grandmother Shen, “Grandma, do you want the whole village to hear? We’re about to have a wedding—can’t you stop talking about unpleasant things? Instead of fussing, help me sew my bedding! If I marry properly and make Xing Kai happy, he’ll help our family even more.”

As she was about to become an officer’s wife, the family instinctively followed her lead. The commotion quieted. Grandmother Shen grumbled, “I still don’t understand why we agreed to her severance. If I’d had time to think, I’d have smacked her eight times a day until she stopped being so uppity.”

Fang Fang chimed in, “I was so focused on arranging the two marriages that I didn’t think it through and just agreed to her demand. I figured the sooner she married into the Xiao family, the better. We didn’t have to rush so much.”

Shen Xuewei took a deep breath. “If we hadn’t rushed, we would’ve lost the Xiao family. Marrying into another family is a one-time deal, but marrying into the Xiao family has long-term benefits. Haven’t I explained this enough? You’re upset because the Xiao family isn’t giving us money, right? Don’t worry. After some time, you can ask my sister for money. She won’t refuse. I’ve already told you—severance notices don’t have legal validity. It’s just to scare her.”

Seeing that she was getting annoyed, the family quickly moved on from the topic. The recent flurry of events had been overwhelming, and they weren’t used to dealing with such urgent matters. It was only natural for them to second-guess their decisions and complain. After all, wasn’t it common for villagers to realize mistakes after the fact and create trouble later?

As Shen Xuewei said, the weddings were approaching quickly, with two daughters being married off. There wasn’t time to dwell on things—they needed to prepare the dowries. Since the long-term benefits of these matches were crucial, the dowries couldn’t be too meager. Fortunately, they had been saving fabric and ration tickets for Shen Xuewei’s marriage over the past year, so they had some items ready.

However, meeting the Xiao family’s demands meant cutting Shen Xuewei’s share in half. After much hesitation, Fang Fang told her, “You know we don’t have much money. Since we’re giving your sister 100 yuan, we won’t be able to give you pocket money for your trousseau right now. We’ll make it up to you later. As for the bedding, thermos, and other items, we’ll have to split what was prepared for you and give half to your sister.”

Shen Xuewei felt suffocated with anger. “How can that be? You all know the truth—Xing Kai is a battalion commander! How can I marry with such a shabby dowry?”

Shen Weiguo frowned. “It’s not that bad. Didn’t the Xing family only give 188 yuan and nothing else? The dowry we’re giving you matches that. Besides, this is technically a second marriage for both of you. It’s normal for it to be simpler than a first marriage.”

Tears welled up in Shen Xuewei’s eyes, and she stormed out. She felt utterly stifled. She had been reborn, seized the opportunity, and should have become the commander’s wife in style, slowly advancing to the rank of a general’s wife. How did everything turn out so humiliating?

As the wind by the river cooled her down, she gradually regained her composure. What mattered wasn’t temporary glory but a lifetime of it. Why bother fussing over trivial details? After all, she had already secured the most significant advantage.

On her way back, she ran into several village women. Seeing her alone and looking upset, they couldn’t help but ask, “Did something happen? Is it because your sister took that town marriage after the incident in the river?”

Shen Xuewei paused, then lowered her head, feigning disappointment. In a soft voice, she said, “The matter between Xing Kai and me was arranged by our families. I don’t know about anything else.”

“Ah, don’t be embarrassed to admit it. We all heard you were supposed to marry into the town. Everything was almost settled, and then that incident happened. What a coincidence! Otherwise, you’d already be a city woman.”

“Exactly. Four people in the Xiao family have jobs—that’s incredible wealth! Now your sister gets to enjoy it instead.”

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but wouldn’t it have been better if your sister had been the one who fell in the river? You could have gone to the town like planned, and she could have married into the Xing family. She’s good at working, and being a stepmother suits her perfectly.”

“But what’s up with the Xiao family? How could they agree to switch from you to your sister? The difference is huge.”

Shen Xuewei lowered her head further and said, “Please don’t talk about this anymore. My sister is a good person. She wanted to marry into the town, so this arrangement works out. I should head home.” With that, she walked off hurriedly, her retreating figure exuding an air of profound grievance.

The women exchanged glances and began speculating. “Could it be that Yunxuan set her sights on the Xiao family and insisted on replacing Xuewei?”

“Do you think the Xiao family agreed right away when Yunxuan went to meet them? Could there be something more to this?”

“What could there be? With Yunxuan’s dark and skinny looks, even if she batted her eyes at someone, they wouldn’t be interested.”

The group laughed as they walked away, their voices fading. Hiding around the corner, Shen Xuewei smirked. She hadn’t said anything, yet the villagers had already created a juicy story. Since Shen Yunxuan was so worried about her seducing her husband, why not let the villagers believe Shen Yunxuan schemed her way into the Xiao family?

On the surface, the Xiao family was far better than the Xing family. It would appear that she had made a sacrifice. From then on, no matter where Shen Yunxuan went, these rumors would follow her.

The next day, when Shen Yunxuan went out, some nosy villagers approached her, their eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Tell us, how did you manage to secure the Xiao family? Did you really take the marriage meant for your sister?”

Surprised, Shen Yunxuan replied, “Who told you that? My sister insisted I marry into the Xiao family. I didn’t want to go at first—it’s embarrassing to replace her after they’d already met. But I had no choice. My parents and grandmother sided with her, and she convinced them that she’d rather marry Xing Kai.”

The villagers exchanged confused looks. “Why would your sister give up the Xiao family for Xing Kai? That doesn’t make sense—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime decision! And your family loves her so much. Why would they agree?”

Shen Yunxuan sighed. “The wedding is in a few days. Please, let’s not talk about this anymore. Don’t ruin the happy occasion.”

Embarrassed, the villagers assured her, “Don’t worry, we won’t say anything.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded and walked away, leaving the villagers convinced her story was true. After all, she showed no signs of joy or excitement, as one might expect from a bride marrying into a better-off family. It truly seemed like she was simply following her family’s arrangement.

Realizing it wouldn’t be appropriate to gossip further, people began discussing the matter privately rather than openly. Meanwhile, the Shen family made two trips to town, buying everything from Xiao Jun’s sister-in-law without any discounts. Feeling disgruntled, they would have complained if not for Shen Xuewei urging them to prioritize the wedding and avoid offending the Xing family.

With the help of neighbors, they quickly prepared the dowry, sewing quilts and fluffing cotton. On the day before the wedding, Xiao Jun arrived on a bicycle to take Shen Yunxuan to register their marriage, while Xing Kai also cycled over to pick up Shen Xuewei.

Shen Xuewei deliberately avoided looking at Xiao Jun, trying to show her innocence. She worried Xiao Jun, known for his nonchalance, might approach her and mention their previous matchmaking, potentially upsetting Xing Kai. However, to her surprise, Xiao Jun didn’t even glance her way. Instead, he grinned at Shen Yunxuan, flashing a set of bright teeth, and said, “Come on, hop on. I tied a cushion to the back seat; it’s soft and comfy—guaranteed not to jolt.”

Shen Yunxuan smiled back. “Thanks. Let’s go.”

“Let’s go! First stop, wedding photos!” Xiao Jun pedaled off with Shen Yunxuan seated comfortably behind him, giving a cheerful smile to the curious villagers as he rode away.

Shen Xuewei’s expression stiffened. What was going on? Did Xiao Jun actually fancy Shen Yunxuan? Xiao Jun had always been dismissive toward her, never willing to talk nicely. Why was he so cheerful and attentive with Shen Yunxuan?

She overheard villagers chatting excitedly:

“Yunxuan’s fiancé is so handsome! I’ve never seen such a good-looking young man in all my years.”

“Is he wearing a brand-new Zhongshan suit? So sharp! And look at his new Liberation shoes! Even his bike looks fresh off the store rack.”

“They said the dowry includes the ‘three rounds and a sound’—this bike must be part of it. Four working family members, no wonder they’re well-off!”

On the other hand, Xing Kai rode an old, beat-up bike. Despite sitting upright on the back seat, Shen Xuewei could feel the villagers’ sympathetic gazes. To them, Xing Kai was a low-ranking soldier with little prospects, often away from home, and burdened with two children. They assumed she was marrying him out of misfortune due to the river incident. Adding to the contrast, Xiao Jun’s thoughtful gesture of tying a cushion made Xing Kai seem even less considerate.

Shen Xuewei reassured herself silently. It didn’t matter; soon, everyone would envy her as the wife of a commander. Besides, hadn’t she wanted Shen Yunxuan to experience joy before falling into despair? That would be the ultimate torment.

On the way, Shen Xuewei started chatting with Xing Kai. They decided to take wedding photos too, and she thoughtfully bought candies and hair ties for Xing Kai’s two children. As expected, Xing Kai was pleased and even began calling her “Weiwei.”

Meanwhile, Shen Yunxuan and Xiao Jun finished taking their wedding photos. Shen Yunxuan said, “I’ll pay you back for the photo costs once I get the money. Keep a record of anything we buy today. You can pay for now, and I’ll reimburse you later.”

Xiao Jun waved dismissively. “Now that you’re officially my wife, do you think I’ll let you pay? Keep your money for yourself—buy some dresses or Snowflake Cream. Anyway,” he added cheekily, “I can win back the expense with a few card games.”

He glanced at Shen Yunxuan, noticing her lack of reaction, and raised a brow. “Aren’t you going to scold me?”

Shen Yunxuan blinked in surprise. Having been reborn, she knew that casual card games would be tolerated in the future, provided it wasn’t serious gambling. But for now, even small-stakes games were considered trouble. She chuckled lightly. “Just don’t get caught or rack up debts. Judging by how quick-witted you are, I doubt you’d need advice.”

Xiao Jun’s eyes lit up, and he gave her a thumbs-up. “You get me! Someone as sharp as me? I’ll be fine. My parents worry over nothing, nagging me all the time. Once you’re officially my wife, you’ll have to shield me from their scolding. Remember, we’re a team—don’t side with them to give me trouble.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded slightly, and Xiao Jun grinned. “Let’s go get our marriage certificate. My dad’s already prepared a meal at the state-owned restaurant for us to celebrate.”

“Sounds good.”

Xiao Jun grew even more excited. He appreciated Shen Yunxuan’s straightforward nature. If it had been anyone else, they’d likely fret about the restaurant cost or insist on skipping the meal. Shen Yunxuan, however, matched his vibe perfectly.

After officially registering their marriage, they carried candy and received blessings from onlookers who assumed they were a deeply-in-love couple. Their genuine smiles and joyful demeanor made their union seem idyllic.

Later, at the family meal, Xiao Jun’s relatives were worried Shen Yunxuan might feel out of place, so they warmly encouraged her to eat and chat. To their surprise, she conversed easily and respectfully, responding to everyone with poise. She showed no sign of discomfort, and her composed demeanor left a strong impression on them.

The Xiao family had initially expected a quiet, compliant bride who could help guide Xiao Jun, but they were delighted to discover Shen Yunxuan’s charm and confidence. Her behavior far exceeded their expectations, and their smiles became increasingly genuine.

Xiao Jun, noticing how well his family had taken to Shen Yunxuan, felt a surge of pride. Look at that—his brilliant idea of a “fake marriage” solved everything. Now, even his family wasn’t nagging him anymore. Seeing how capable Shen Yunxuan was, he resolved not to let her down.

On the way back to the village, Xiao Jun deliberately carried a large bag of wedding candies and handed them out to everyone they met. He cheerfully thanked them for taking care of Shen Yunxuan over the years.

Villagers gathered around, offering well-wishes and scrutinizing the couple. They couldn’t hide their surprise. Hadn’t they heard Shen Yunxuan either stole her sister’s match or been forced into this marriage? Yet Xiao Jun seemed genuinely fond of her. To anyone watching, they appeared to be a happy, loving couple who had chosen each other willingly.

Someone asked, “Young man from the Xiao family, did you fall for Yunxuan at first sight?”

Xiao Jun grinned and said, “That’s right! My family set me up with several matches before, but I didn’t like any of them—until I met Yunxuan. The moment I saw her, I knew she was the one. So I hurried to marry her.”

The crowd laughed, teasing him for being shameless. Xiao Jun responded cheerfully, “Why be shy about getting a wife? When you meet someone you like, you’ve got to act fast and bring her home!”

Suddenly, someone noticed something odd. “Wait, you said you didn’t like anyone before Yunxuan? But what about Xuewei…”

The person trailed off, hesitant to continue, as it felt inappropriate to mention Xuewei now that Xiao Jun was married to Yunxuan, and Xuewei was married to Xing Kai.

Xiao Jun waved dismissively. “Oh, we did meet once, but I didn’t agree to it. My parents wanted to persuade me further, but then the Shen family brought Yunxuan over, and I immediately agreed.”

The crowd exchanged glances, realizing they’d just uncovered a surprising truth. So the earlier rumors about Xuewei marrying into the Xiao family were false? The Xiao family never agreed in the first place. This meant that if Yunxuan hadn’t been substituted, the Shen family would never have secured the match with the Xiao family.

Then why had Xuewei acted so aggrieved earlier? Even without the river incident, it seemed she wouldn’t have been able to marry into the Xiao family. Why hadn’t she clarified when people accused Yunxuan of stealing the match?

The villagers were full of questions, but Xiao Jun and Shen Yunxuan didn’t stick around to answer. After handing out wedding candies, they headed back to the Shen household. There, Xiao Jun carefully inspected Yunxuan’s dowry and insisted that Fangfang hand over the 100 yuan intended for Yunxuan’s personal savings before he left.

As he was about to leave, Xiao Jun glanced at the Shen family’s disgruntled expressions and chuckled. “My parents told me to double-check if there’s anything amiss with the wedding arrangements. I’m just making sure everything goes smoothly for tomorrow. By the way, our house is all set—the ‘three rounds and a sound’ are already displayed in the room, looking great. Want to come see?”

The Shen family had initially planned to visit the Xiao household to see the dowry setup, but Xiao Jun’s smugness annoyed them so much that they decided against it. They reasoned they could see it later, so they politely declined, saying, “We trust the Xiao family’s preparations.”

Their words were meant to embarrass Xiao Jun, hinting that the Xiao family had doubted them first. But Xiao Jun didn’t seem to care. He grinned and told them to feed Yunxuan well and let her rest early before riding off on his bike.

His parting words sounded like a jab, implying the Shen family had mistreated Yunxuan. The Shen family was fuming, thinking, Just wait until the wedding’s over; as her elders, we’ll give Xiao Jun a piece of our mind!

They ignored Yunxuan, who left the house to take a walk. Meanwhile, a few young women approached her, curious about the Xiao family, and asked whether they had ever considered Shen Xuewei.

“I don’t know,” Shen Yunxuan replied. “They didn’t tell me anything about it.”

The girls were frustrated by her vague answer. “What do you mean you don’t know? Why did your family send you to marry into the Xiao family, then?”

Shen Yunxuan explained, “It all started after my sister fell into the river and was rescued. She suddenly insisted on marrying Xing Kai. My parents disagreed, but she said if they didn’t let her marry him, she’d stay single forever.

“Later, I overheard her telling them that Xing Kai was already a battalion commander. A battalion commander is far better than any town worker. She could be an officer’s wife and take care of Shen Jie. My family was thrilled and immediately agreed. That same afternoon, they went to the Xing family to arrange the marriage.

“But since the Xiao family lives close by and is highly regarded in town, they said it’d be a shame to miss out on such a good match. They insisted I marry into the Xiao family, even though I said no. They scolded me until I agreed. Thankfully, the Xiao family has treated me well. If they hadn’t been good people, I would’ve been doomed. It’s truly a stroke of luck!”

The young women stared at her, stunned by her tone of relief. They began to reevaluate their perception of Shen Xuewei. Could it be that Shen Xuewei wasn’t the pitiful girl forced to marry Xing Kai due to the river incident? Had she chosen him because he was a battalion commander, abandoning the Xiao family to pursue status? That explained everything.

By the evening before the wedding, the story had quietly spread throughout the village. Though no one confronted the Shen family, the news reached the Xing household. Relatives asked Xing Kai directly if he was indeed a battalion commander and whether he could help the villagers.

The Xing family had been trying to keep this a secret. Upon realizing that Shen Xuewei’s marriage motives stemmed from her desire for status, they were furious. To them, this was nothing short of vanity and opportunism—a scheming girl aiming to climb the social ladder.

However, with the marriage certificate already issued, it was too late to back out. The wedding would have to proceed.

🌸˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧🩷˚⋆