Chapter 389: Fourth Sister-in-law
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Qin Zhenzhen regarded Chen Shanshan with a serious expression. “I didn’t anticipate you’d be so thoughtful.”
In ancient times, marriages were typically arranged by parents, making it uncommon for individuals to prioritize love when considering a life partner. Chen Shanshan’s perspective on their relationship was a rarity, as she wanted to ensure that neither she nor the person she loved would be wronged.
Such rationality was a precious quality, especially for women in ancient times. A woman with such an open and rational mindset promised a harmonious and enjoyable future together.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn’t help but remark, “I initially intended to discuss this matter with you myself, but I was feeling a bit hesitant. I worried that my family’s background might not be on par with yours, and I also had concerns about whether I was deserving of Silong.”
Coming from an ordinary family while the Qin family held substantial wealth as prominent merchants, Qin Zhenzhen was actually the Marquis Mansion’s prince consort. Qin Silong had already attained the rank of chiliarch, and his future prospects seemed boundless.
Chen Shanshan clarified that her feelings for Qin Silong predated his military service. Her sentiments were not a result of his status as a chiliarch; rather, she had harbored these feelings for him prior to his departure.
She had subtly hinted at her affections in the past, but unfortunately, Qin Silong had not interpreted her intentions in that manner. It was likely that he regarded her as a dear friend.
Understanding his perspective, Chen Shanshan had initially abandoned the idea of pursuing a romantic relationship. Otherwise, given her straightforward personality, she might have directly confessed her feelings to Qin Silong.
However, as time passed and Qin Silong departed for the military camp, Chen Shanshan discovered that her love for him ran deep, to the point that she couldn’t envision marrying anyone else. She regretted not having confessed her feelings to Qin Silong earlier.
Now that she had taken the initiative to address the matter, Chen Shanshan worried that people might misconstrue her intentions. They might assume she wanted to marry Qin Silong solely because of his promotion. This concern made her feel somewhat embarrassed.
Qin Zhenzhen, however, laughed heartily and reassured her. “How can you ever be unworthy of my fourth brother? To be honest, it’s his good fortune to marry a cheerful and straightforward woman like you. It’s as if he’s benefiting from his past life’s karma.”
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen’s words, Chen Shanshan’s embarrassment subsided, and she regained her confidence. She replied confidently, “I’m not afraid at all.”
Qin Zhenzhen then asked about Chen Shanshan’s approach to revealing this to Su Ning. She wondered if Chen Shanshan was concerned about Su Ning spreading the news to others.
Knowing Su Ning’s character well, Chen Shanshan responded proudly, “I know that Su Ning won’t divulge this to anyone else. She’ll keep it a secret, just like you.”
Qin Zhenzhen playfully teased her, “Then I’ll address you as Fourth
Sister-in-law from now on?”
Chen Shanshan waved her hand quickly, dismissing the idea. “It’s too early for that. At least… after the engagement!”
“Huh?”
The idea that she could be called Fourth Sister-in-law after the engagement seemed to imply that she was already being considered a part of the family.
Qin Zhenzhen then jokingly continued, “In that case, I’ll promptly inform my parents about this and suggest they select a propitious day to send a matchmaker to your home for a formal proposal.”
Chen Shanshan readily agreed, saying, “Alright.”
For her, once the engagement took place, people in the neighborhood would stop gossiping about her being unmarried at her age. Although she understood that Qin Silong might not be able to return and marry her for another two to three years, she was more than willing to wait.
This period of waiting also provided an opportunity for her to learn from Qin
Zhenzhen.
Chen Shanshan was determined to dedicate herself to studying diligently. Her goal was to acquire even a fraction of Qin Zhenzhen’s skills, and that would already be a significant accomplishment.
She recognized the importance of becoming a capable woman, feeling that this was the only way she could truly deserve Qin Silong.
Even if she were to marry a government official in the future, she had no intention of confining herself to the household and living a life of luxury. Chen Shanshan aspired to lead a fulfilling life, much like the one Qin Zhenzhen enjoyed..