“Much obliged!” I nodded slightly and followed him into the inn.
Su Yao sat in the pavilion, her neck slightly tilted back, supporting her cheek with one hand. Her bright, large eyes stared blankly into space.
“Su Yao, Su Yao?” I walked forward slowly and called her twice with no response. Helplessly, I raised my voice, “Boss, I’m here!”
She was startled, almost sliding off the chair, but fortunately, I supported her in time. She collected herself and, seeing me, eagerly grabbed my hand, “Xin Ran, you’re here!”
I sat down in the seat next to her and asked, “What’s wrong? You look like something’s on your mind.”
She pulled at the corner of her mouth, with a forced smile, “Nothing! It’s just that my mother has been constantly saying that a girl shouldn’t be out and about, and is eager to arrange a marriage for me!”
I think I could understand her feelings. A proud woman like her would surely be unwilling to accept someone else’s arrangements and be just an appendage to a man for her entire life! Especially in this era where she has no control over her own destiny!
I placed my other hand over hers and comforted her, “Don’t overthink it.”
“That’s not what I meant. I just don’t comprehend the idea of establishing a career before marriage. It seems too impractical from my perspective.”
I took a deep breath, trying to keep my patience. “Look, it’s not about the impracticality; it’s about gaining independence. You’ll feel stronger and more confident in any relationship.”
Her brow furrowed again as she considered my words, the transition in our conversation clearly weighing on her. “But what if I don’t want that? What if I just want to settle down and create a family?”
I pondered her question carefully, searching for the right words. I had to respect her desires while still encouraging her aspirations. “You can do both. You can create a family and pursue your career. You shouldn’t feel limited to one path or the other.”
She looked at me thoughtfully, but confusion still clouded her expression. “It just seems like a lot to handle. Can I really have both?”
