The False Heiress In The 1980s

13. Preparations and Promises

After receiving their marriage certificate, Zhang Wei turned to Lin Yuqi, his expression calm but sincere.

"We'll head to the market now to buy a few things for the wedding banquet tomorrow," he said, his deep voice steady yet warm.

As they walked, he glanced at her, seeming almost hesitant.

"I apologize that the wedding preparations have been done in such a hurry. Once the New Year has passed and things settle down, I'll make it up to you."

Lin Yuqi looked at him, noticing the sincerity in his eyes, and felt a flicker of appreciation.

Despite his stoic nature, Zhang Wei truly seemed to care about her comfort.

"There's no need to apologize," she said with a small smile. "I don't mind."

They walked together through the bustling market, where Zhang Wei explained that 5 kilograms of pork meat and bones would be delivered to the Xia family home later in the day.

"It's part of my business," he explained. "Raising and butchering pigs. We'll get the rest of the supplies here."

Lin Yuqi nodded, impressed by his straightforward manner and efficiency. They moved from one shop to the next, gathering fresh vegetables and wedding candies to prepare for the banquet.

At one shop, Zhang Wei stopped and turned to her. "I'd like to buy a sewing machine and a bicycle for you," he said, his tone casual but firm.

Lin Yuqi blinked in surprise, then nodded slowly.

"Thank you. But, if it's alright, I'd like to keep them at the Xia family house. Mother Xia will find them useful as well."

Zhang Wei nodded, respecting her decision without a word of protest.

After paying for the items, they continued on, finally arriving at a jewelry shop.

Zhang Wei motioned her inside. "I'd like us to pick out our wedding rings here," he explained.

Feeling a slight thrill at the thought, Lin Yuqi began looking through the selection of rings.

She eventually settled on a pair of simple, gold bands. They weren't overly elaborate, but they had a classic elegance, and she knew that gold would only appreciate in value over time.

Zhang Wei agreed with her choice, and as they moved to the next counter, he gestured to a set of gold jewelry featuring a plum blossom design—bracelet, necklace, and earrings.

"These would suit you," Zhang Wei said, his tone soft but certain.

Lin Yuqi's eyes widened as she admired the pieces.

The delicate plum blossoms were crafted with such precision and elegance, radiating a gentle, timeless beauty that she knew would remain fashionable even decades into the future.

"The plum blossom is a symbol of resilience and hope," Zhang Wei said, his gaze meeting hers. "It blooms in winter, enduring the cold to bring beauty to the world."

Touched by his thoughtfulness, Lin Yuqi thanked him quietly.

Zhang Wei's stoic face softened just a little as he replied, "We're family now. There's no need for thanks."

Upon their return to the Xia family home, they arrived just as the meat delivery was being made.

A friendly man with a robust frame—Uncle Li, who seemed honest and efficient—greeted Zhang Wei with a respectful nod.

"Boss, I've brought the meat for tomorrow's banquet," he announced.

Zhang Wei helped Mother Xia and Lin Yuqi carry the meat into the house, ensuring everything was stored properly.

Outside, curious villagers began to gather, their eyes fixed on the Xia family yard.

The sight of such a large amount of meat was a rare event, and whispers began to ripple through the crowd.

Children from the village, fascinated by the delivery truck, pointed and chattered excitedly as they examined the vehicle.

Seeing the gathering of curious neighbors, Mother Xia took the opportunity to address them.

She smiled warmly, motioning toward Lin Yuqi and Zhang Wei.

"Please join us for the wedding banquet tomorrow," she announced, her voice filled with pride. "This is my daughter, Yuqi, and her husband, Zhang Wei."

The villagers exchanged looks, whispers rising. Some nodded approvingly, others with raised brows.

"So, this is the mistaken daughter from the city," one woman murmured. "Look how fair and delicate she is! City women truly are white and tender."

Another chimed in, "And she seems educated too. But marrying a pig farmer from the next village?" She shook her head doubtfully.

One elderly man nodded thoughtfully, his gaze flicking between the couple.

"If you ask me, they make a fine match. She's a beauty, and he's a strong man. Plus, they're both tall. It suits them."

The villagers gave their blessings, nodding and murmuring their approval as they promised to attend the banquet.

Just then, Zhang Wei's children arrived, running up to their father with bright smiles.

"Father!" the little boy and little girl exclaimed, beaming.

Lin Yuqi's heart softened as she reached out, gently patting the children's heads.

She pulled out two milk candies from her pocket, handing one to each child with a warm smile.

"Here's a treat for today," she said, her tone gentle. "And if you're good, you can have another tomorrow."

The children's faces lit up as they clutched the candies tightly, cheering with excitement. Their joyful exclamations filled the yard, and soon enough, the entire group was laughing.

At that moment, Xia Tian entered the yard, his eyes widening when he saw the children with their candies.

A faint look of envy crossed his face, and his eyes flicked to his sister with a pleading gaze. (⁄ ⁄>⁄ ▽ ⁄<⁄ ⁄)

Catching his expression, Lin Yuqi chuckled, reaching into her pocket for one more candy. She handed it to him with a teasing smile. "Here you go, Brother Xia Tian."

Xia Tian's cheeks flushed as he accepted the candy.

"Thank you, Sister!" he said, a shy smile appearing on his face.

He carefully slipped the candy into his trouser pocket, treasuring it. After all, it was the very first candy his sister had ever given him.

The villagers slowly dispersed, chatting about the upcoming wedding as they left, and the Xia family returned inside, feeling the excitement in the air.

Tomorrow would be a big day, and as Lin Yuqi thought about it, she felt a warm sense of anticipation.

Zhang Wei's thoughtfulness, the kind faces of the villagers, and the sweetness of the children all made her realize that this life, with its simplicity and joy, was beginning to feel like home.

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