TSWRLM -Chapter 384 The End

Xiao Yechen brought all of his wealth to propose, and his assets were far more abundant than the Xiao family had imagined.

Besides the rewards he had earned through military achievements, he also owned several shops and estates.

Although these assets together were still far from matching the Xiao family’s fortune, they were enough to provide Xiao Qinghe a life of luxury.

Xiao Yechen offered all his wealth to propose, showing complete sincerity. Madam Xiao and Father Xiao had no objections and left the decision entirely to Xiao Qinghe.

On the day of the proposal, Xiao Yechen wore a sapphire blue brocade robe embroidered with flounders, his black hair neatly tied with a jade crown. He looked vigorous and spirited, even the tips of his eyebrows radiating energy.

Spring had fully arrived, and standing in the flower-filled garden, Xiao Yechen’s usual aloofness was gone. He now carried an extra air of nobility and elegance.

Seeing Xiao Qinghe, he still felt a little nervous but immediately smiled: “He’er, little sister.”

Xiao Qinghe curved her eyes slightly in response: “I heard that today you brought all your wealth to ask for my hand. Have you thought it through?”

“There’s nothing much to think about. If I can marry He’er, it would be the greatest blessing of my life,” Xiao Yechen replied without hesitation. Then he cautiously asked, “Little sister, do you think there’s anything wrong with me?”

Xiao Qinghe shook her head: “No, you are very good, and you treat me well. I have nothing to find fault with.”

Hearing this, Xiao Yechen exhaled in relief. Then Xiao Qinghe added: “The last wedding between the Wei and Xiao families was grand, but this time I don’t want extravagance. I just want to invite some close friends and family to witness it.”

“That’s fine. After all, my family doesn’t have many relatives. As long as you’re happy, He’er, little sister, that’s enough.”

“Although Wei Lingze has passed away, once we’re married, people will inevitably compare us to them. If you hear any gossip, don’t keep it in your heart. Tell me immediately.”

“Of course,” Xiao Yechen nodded. “Little sister, don’t worry. I won’t pay attention to what others say.”

“One last point: in the future, no matter what disagreements arise between us, you must not strike me. If you do even once…”

“If I ever do, little sister He’er, you may divorce me, and I will personally destroy my hands and apologize to you and the Xiao family.”

Xiao Yechen interrupted Xiao Qinghe, giving the promise directly.

Xiao Qinghe paused, then quietly replied: “Okay.”

The wedding was set for three months later. According to Xiao Qinghe’s plan, the banquet would be simple. Apart from the Xiao family, only people she had a close relationship with would attend.

Though not grand, every guest genuinely came to bless them.

After the ceremony, Xiao Qinghe was led to the bridal chamber.

Xiao Yechen, meanwhile, was dragged by Xiao Qingyang and Xiao Qingyun to drink.

“He’er is our Xiao family’s precious lady. If you dare treat her badly after marriage, I’ll be the first to punish you!”

“Yes, the last person who wronged He’er… grass has already grown many times over his grave. If you follow his path, I’ll scatter your ashes myself!”

Each spoke in turn, their threats carrying deep love and concern for their sister.

Xiao Yechen nodded solemnly: “Don’t worry, eldest and second brother. I will treat He’er well. If I fail, I don’t even need you to act—I won’t forgive myself.”

Father and Madam Xiao also gave him many reminders.

Late at night, the banquet ended.

The steward brought a congratulatory gift: “This was sent by a young gentleman claiming to be a friend of the general.”

Inside a small box were silver notes. A rough count suggested several thousand taels.

Xiao Yechen frowned slightly. “Where is he?”

“I don’t know. The young gentleman wore a mask, so I couldn’t see his face. After inspection, I confirmed the box and notes are fine. I wanted to invite him to the banquet, but he only wanted a glass of wedding wine before leaving. Should I send someone after him?”

Xiao Yechen shook his head: “No need. He drank the wedding wine, that’s enough.”

His face was not suited to appear in Hanjing.

He pocketed the silver and continued forward. A few steps later, the steward reminded him: “General, you’re going the wrong way. The guest rooms are there; the main courtyard is to the left.”

“I’m not wrong,” Xiao Yechen shook his head. “Send hot water and a hangover soup to my room. I have too much alcohol on me; I need to clean up before seeing my wife.”

“Ah?”

The steward was astonished. Usually, grooms smell of alcohol, but the general seemed to care too much for his bride.

Xiao Yechen gave him a sharp look: “What, didn’t hear me clearly?”

The steward hurriedly bowed his head: “Understood. I’ll go right away.”

After drinking the hangover soup and rinsing carefully, Xiao Yechen changed into his clean wedding robe and proceeded to the bridal chamber.

Inside, Xiao Qinghe sat quietly in her phoenix-patterned wedding gown.

Xiao Yechen dismissed the matchmaker and servants, took a deep breath, and lifted the bridal veil.

Beneath the veil, Xiao Qinghe’s makeup was exquisite, her beauty radiant and breathtaking.

Xiao Yechen’s breath caught; he almost dropped the veil.

He truly… had married the young lady!

Seeing Xiao Yechen stunned and entranced, Xiao Qinghe’s eyes curved in a smile: “I heard from Quezhi that you drank quite a bit at the banquet. How come there’s no trace of alcohol on you, husband?”

Xiao Qinghe spoke first. Just as Xiao Yechen recovered, her calling him “husband” sent shivers down his spine. He hurriedly said: “I didn’t want to disturb you, so I took a bath before coming.”

Xiao Qinghe, who had been a little nervous, felt moved and relaxed.

This time would be different. She would be truly cherished and never hurt again.

The matchmaker was sent away. Xiao Qinghe guided Xiao Yechen through the remaining rituals. After finishing the ceremonial wine, Xiao Yechen habitually asked: “And then? What comes next?”

“….”

Xiao Qinghe choked, then shot him a glance: “Lights out.”

“Oh.”

Xiao Yechen obediently extinguished the lights. The room went dark. Soon, Xiao Qinghe felt Xiao Yechen sit beside her.

His breathing grew noticeably heavier, and her heart, just relaxed, tensed again.

After a moment, she heard him ask: “Little sister He’er, may I hold your hand?”

“…Hmm.”

Xiao Yechen’s palm was hot, as if on fire, making Xiao Qinghe’s fingers curl slightly.

Feeling her reaction, he immediately let go: “If you’re not ready, I can sleep in the guest room tonight.”

He started to leave, but instinctively, Xiao Qinghe reached out and grabbed his robe.

She had decided to marry him—what preparation was left to make?

Her gentle hold was like a spark that instantly ignited Xiao Yechen.

He spun toward her, leaving no time for either to react, and kissed her passionately.

His kiss was forceful, as if to pour years of buried feelings into her, yet controlled, without recklessness.

Xiao Qinghe, nearly breathless, heard him murmur: “Wife… is this okay?”

“….”

She said nothing, instead wrapping her arms around his neck.

It was like triggering a mechanism; the whole night became fervent and burning.

Exhausted, Xiao Qinghe couldn’t help thinking that her aunt and princess were right—Xiao Yechen was indeed… very restrained yet intense.