The next day, old master Tang returned from the tavern, his face brimming with confidence. When he looked at Wandie, a broad smile spread across his face as he said, “ Wandie, it seems I have finally lived up to the expectations of our ancestors. master Jiang is truly a benefactor for our family.”
From his father's demeanor, it was clear that this deal was almost certain to succeed.
However, Wandie's heart sank. For the past few days, she had been restless, as if something bad were about to happen, leaving her on edge for no apparent reason.
After some thought, she urged her father, “Father, I see that master Jiang is cunning. This matter may not be as simple as it seems. You must think it over carefully and not let him deceive you.”
At that moment, old master Tang was preoccupied with thoughts of how to make You Lan Wine famous and hardly paid attention to Wandie's words.
He patted her hand reassuringly but somewhat dismissively replied, “ Wandie, I see that master Jiang is quite attentive to you. If our families were to unite in marriage, would he dare deceive me, your father-in-law? Besides…”
“Father, this matter cannot be discussed further. I will not agree to it,” Wandie interrupted him, turning her face away in annoyance.
As she had suspected, the man’s intentions were not solely business-related.
“Are you still thinking about that the Bao Family boy? How can he compare to master Jiang? My daughter! Don’t be foolish!” old master Tang ’s expression shifted to one of tension and discomfort as he sensed his plans were being thwarted.
Wandie remained silent, tacitly acknowledging his words.
She indeed still had feelings for Bao Sinian; no one else could capture her heart or interest.
“ Wandie, I have already agreed to this marriage on your behalf. master Jiang is preparing the betrothal gifts as we speak. Soon enough, you will belong to the Jiang family. If you continue to have any ties with that the Bao Family boy, don’t blame your father for being unkind!”
Old Master Tang was furious at Wandie's attitude, angrily tossing his sleeve and turning away in a huff.
A few days later, Jiang Haotian indeed sent someone to deliver the betrothal gifts.
The box, adorned with bright red satin, filled the entire main hall, the blood-red color stinging Wandie's eyes painfully.
"Wandie, look at these gifts. Are they enough?" Jiang Haotian said, hands behind his back, stepping forward with a steady gait, his eyes and brows brimming with pride.
Yes, he had every reason to be proud.
The Jiang family was the wealthiest in Tongcheng, having been merchants for generations. Under Jiang Haotian's leadership, their business had flourished even more.
A young and handsome man, ambitious and capable—what woman wouldn't be moved by him?
Yet, Wandie remained resolute in her feelings; her love for Bao Sinian was unwavering and steadfast. She would not spare a glance at anyone else.
"Master Jiang, you are too kind. I cannot accept these gifts. Please take them back to where they came from! I do not agree to this marriage," she replied coolly.
Wandie cast him a dismissive glance, her expression slightly contemptuous. Though subtle, it pierced Jiang Haotian's heart like a sharp blade.
A hint of embarrassment and anger flickered across his face, but he struggled to maintain an air of elegance. He stepped closer to Wandie and for the first time spoke softly, "Wandie, what have I done wrong? Is it that the betrothal gifts are insufficient?"
Old Master Tang wanted to give Jiang Haotian a way out, so he hurriedly stepped forward and laughed, "Master Jiang, don't listen to this girl’s nonsense. Matters of marriage are determined by the parents and matchmakers; how can it be left to her whims?"
"Uncle Tang, I can't let Wandie be wronged. If she has any dissatisfaction, she can speak up. Wandie, you..."
Before he could finish his sentence, Wandie impatiently turned and went back to her room.
Old Master Tang was so angry that he stomped his feet behind him, cursing while apologizing to Jiang Haotian.
Jiang Haotian, however, simply watched her retreating figure in silence, a hint of a determined smile unconsciously appearing at the corner of his mouth.
He was sure he had fallen in love with this woman. Just a fleeting glance six months ago had made her occupy his thoughts day and night. Now that they had finally met again, how could he easily let her go?
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