Chapter 292: Conflict

Chapter 292: Conflict
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Zhou Lan revealed a gratified smile. Seeing her eldest daughter being treasured and pampered made her increasingly thankful. She was relieved that during her absence from this world, someone else was there to cherish her daughter Jiang Qing.
Zhang Ping proudly bragged, “Today we encountered a huge wild boar on the mountain! My two younger brothers and I combined our efforts to kill it and brought it back. Father and Su Zhen are now processing the pork in the courtyard. We can feast on wild boar meat for lunch, and use the bamboo shoots stored from summer to stew it into a soup.”
Jiang Qing laughed and responded, “The bamboo shoots are in the cellar; I’ll fetch them shortly.”
Upon hearing about the bamboo shoots, Jiang Xia was elated. In her modern life, bamboo shoots were her favorite—crunchy and sweet, and they’re especially delicious when stewed with meat.
She eagerly proposed, “Should we get them now?”
Jiang Qing affectionately tapped her nose and replied, “Alright, I’ll lead the way.”
Liu You awkwardly stood aside, watching their joyful family interactions and felt she was rather out of place.
She discreetly nudged Zhang Hu, hoping he would speak up for her. Gritting his teeth, Zhang Hu bravely addressed, “Mother, since Liu You is here today, let’s finalize a date.”
Upon Zhang Hu’s remark, everyone became aware of Liu You, who had been inadvertently overlooked. The room fell silent. Jiang Qing and Jiang Xia, who were about to fetch the bamboo shoots, halted.
Jiang Gu, sitting in Zhao Wan’s lap, looked at Zhang Hu with big, curious eyes. After listening, Zhao Wan calmly placed Jiang Gu on the floor, signaling her to go play with Zhou Lan.
Zhao Wan then stated, “Liu You, although our families rarely interact, I’ve watched you grow since you were a child. As someone who’s experienced life, I see things more clearly than you. You and Zhang Hu are not a good match.” “Why aren’t we?” Zhang Hu challenged.
“We come from different backgrounds, and there are differences between the Liu family and ours. It’s not suitable for you two to build a life together.”
Liu You assumed Zhao Wan was referencing their wealth, especially since the Liu family was the wealthiest in the mountain area and even considered rich in the nearby villages.
She hastily interjected, “My family doesn’t mind. Yes, your family might be less affluent, but my father promised a generous dowry of two chests and a box of jewelry when 1 marry. 1 can even share it with your family!”
There was a hint of boastfulness in Liu You’s voice. In those days, a bride having two dowry chests was impressive, let alone an additional box of jewelry. Most would consider having new clothes as satisfactory.
Jiang Qing had arrived at Zhang’s household without a dowry.
Zhou Lan frowned upon hearing this, thinking, “This girl really doesn’t use her brain.”
Those who knew her would think she’s naive, but those who didn’t might assume she was implying something. How could she speak in such a manner? She neither elevated herself nor put down others.
Furthermore, it didn’t seem like Liu You really loved Zhang Hu. It seemed more like an obsession. Why was she so adamant about marrying into the Zhang family?
Currently, all Zhang Hu could think about was being with Liu You, and he wouldn’t listen to anyone trying to dissuade him.
Perhaps teenagers at this age all have a rebellious streak. At first, he didn’t think Liu You was anything special – just a potential match he was getting to know.
But later, as the family strongly opposed their relationship, especially the adamant disapproval from the Old Master Zhang, Zhang Hu’s rebelliousness peaked. No matter what, he wanted to marry Liu You. He would find every means possible to meet her daily, even sending gifts to her house, which frequently angered his father to the point of breaking things.
The rest of the Zhang family could only helplessly watch Zhang Hu act foolishly. Despite their numerous attempts to advise him, both overtly and covertly, all was in vain. They eventually gave up and let the relationship develop.
Third Brother Zhang, was straightforward and didn’t overthink things. Liu You’s words made him uncomfortable. He spoke without considering the feelings of Liu You or Zhang Hu, saying, “Why should you care if our family is poor or not? We’re content with our lives and don’t need you flaunting your wealth here.”
Zhang Hu, who would never defy his mother and couldn’t stand up to his eldest brother, dared to lose his temper with Third Brother Zhang. Now, as Third Brother Zhang spoke out, Zhang Hu’s stubborn temper flared up, “How can you speak to Liu You like that? She’s going to be your sister-in-law!”
Third Brother Zhang, known for his short temper, retorted, “I don’t want such a sister-in-law. If you two get married, I’ll cut ties with you!”
“I don’t even want a younger brother like you!”