Stunned, Ruan Qing tugged at Ruan Shiming’s sleeve, whispering, “Father, we can’t let this go.”
Fourth brother is waiting to be adopted. If she brings in a live-in son-in-law, outsiders might steal our family’s property!”
Ruan Shiming looked at the two hundred taels of silver on the tray, his face darkening. His younger brother was giving less and less. If his wife brought in a live-in son-in-law, she might give away all the family’s assets. This cannot happen!
After the father and daughter left, Ruan Shiming handed the tray to Ruan Qing, whispering, “Go back. I’m going to find your third uncle.”
Ruan Shiqi was the most down-and-out among the three brothers, often borrowing clothes from Ruan Shixin. Although they had fought over adopting their sons, they united against the threat of an outsider taking their belongings.
“Let’s go, bring my wife and son. Why should outsiders get our family’s assets?”
Ruan Shixin felt nervous but stood firmly. Despite being skilled in martial arts, the clan’s family rules had been ingrained in him since childhood. Although he had argued with his elder brother over his wife and daughter, he felt lacking in confidence facing the punishment rod that represented family law.
“Elder brother,” he said, a hint of pleading in his voice, “I have seen Ning’er’s marriage prospects.”
Am I not allowed to make decisions about my daughter’s marriage?”
“Hmph, that depends on who she’s marrying. If it’s some poor outsider, our family law will never agree!” Ruan Shiming saw his fear and became more aggressive. “Move aside! I want to see who would dare marry an outsider without my approval!”
“Elder brother, I want to find a well-known son-in-law from our local area too, but whenever I do, you and third brother go to their home to cause trouble. The men you suggest are all worthless rascals. What am I supposed to do?” Ruan Shixin tried to reason. “Ning’er’s husband selection is my decision. If there are family rules that require punishment, come at me, but don’t touch a hair on Ning’er!”
“Then don’t blame me for being impolite, third brother,” Ruan Shiming’s face darkened. “Come help me teach this unruly person a lesson!”
