Chapter 539: The Ferocious Father-in-Law

At dawn, the cheerful cries of a few magpies broke the silence of the early morning, their clear voices ushering in the first light of day. Not to be outdone, the roosters raised their heads and crowed loudly, their calls echoing across the village as if proclaiming their dominion over the new day.

With the chorus of crowing, Xiahe Village slowly awakened. Zhu Ping’an had risen early, already dressed and prepared. Meanwhile, Li Shu was being carefully attended to by Hua’er and the older servant woman, who helped her wash, comb her hair, and adorn herself.

Today was the day of returning to her natal home. After accompanying Li Shu back to Shanghe Village, Zhu Ping’an would then set off on his journey to the capital.

The custom of returning home—also called guining—was when a newlywed daughter, accompanied by her husband, went back to visit her parents and relatives. It usually took place three days after the wedding, commonly referred to as the “third-day return,” and marked the final ritual of the marriage ceremonies.

In ancient times, women seldom stepped beyond the inner chambers of their homes. Marriage was often the first time they were separated from their parents for such a long period. This return visit served both as comfort for their longing and as a gesture of gratitude, reminding them never to forget the kindness of their upbringing.

There was, however, another saying. In those times, most brides were pure maidens, while young grooms were often brimming with unrestrained vigor and lacking in gentleness. Once they tasted intimacy, they could easily become overindulgent. The bride, having endured the pain of her first night, might find it difficult to recover. Thus, her family would use the excuse of the return visit to bring her home, allowing her to rest and recuperate.

Madam Chen had prepared the return gifts early in the morning. Tradition dictated that such gifts be in even numbers, so she had arranged wine, tea cakes, geese, lamb, fruits, and a generous assortment of mountain delicacies—many of which Zhu Ping’an’s father and elder brother had gathered during their recent trip into the hills.

Three carriages stood ready outside the new residence. The first was a splendid carriage embroidered with the character “Zhu,” reserved for Zhu Ping’an and Li Shu. Following behind was a more modest carriage for the older maids and accompanying servants. The last carriage was laden with the return gifts.

“You must speak steadily when you get to Shu’er’s home. Be observant, keep your eyes open, and don’t just sit there once you enter. If there’s work to be done—even something as simple as pouring tea or serving water—you must take the initiative,” Madam Chen instructed repeatedly beside the carriage, her tone filled with concern, afraid that her son might leave a poor impression on his in-laws.

“I understand, Mother.” Zhu Ping’an rubbed his forehead helplessly. She had been reminding him of this since dawn—he could practically recite it word for word by now.

“Keep your words sweet and your hands busy. And take good care of Shu’er while you’re there,” she added once more, unwilling to let it go.

“I’ve got it, Mother.”

Zhu Ping’an nodded firmly.

“Mother—”

Surrounded by her maids and attendants, Li Shu approached gracefully. The moment she stepped out, she greeted Madam Chen warmly, quickening her pace to move ahead of the others and stand by her side.

There was now an added grace to her—a subtle charm that belonged to a married woman. She wore a soft pink cloud-patterned blouse embroidered with elegant plum blossoms, paired with a flowing moonlight skirt that trailed along the ground, its hem adorned with pale blue butterflies poised as if about to take flight. Her long black hair was styled into the coiffure of a new bride, adorned with a pearl-and-jade hair ornament that swayed gently with her movements. A light touch of makeup enhanced her already delicate features—her fair cheeks carried a natural flush, as though they might yield dew at a touch, like petals freshly kissed by rain.

“Shu’er looks truly beautiful. That foolish boy of mine is blessed indeed,” Madam Chen said with deep satisfaction, clearly delighted with the daughter-in-law she had chosen.

“Mother…” Li Shu lowered her head shyly at the praise, her cheeks turning rosy as she drew out the word softly.

In his mother’s eyes, it felt as if even Li Shu’s fart smelled better than that of her own biological son… Zhu Ping’an rubbed his nose, speechless.

“Well then, it’s getting late. You two should get on the carriage. Don’t keep your in-laws waiting. And when you return, give them my thanks—if it weren’t for them finding you at sea last time…” Madam Chen said with a smile, half teasing, half sincere.

Xiahe Village lay close to Shanghe Village—only a short journey of ten or so minutes. Crossing the small bridge was enough to reach their destination.

During the ride, Zhu Ping’an thought through countless scenarios—what to say when he met Li Shu’s father, what to say to her elder brother. Yet when the moment truly arrived, he realized he had been “too young, too simple”.

As soon as they reached the entrance of Li Shu’s family estate in Shanghe Village, the sharp crackling of firecrackers erupted into the air.

“Shu’er is back!”

Even amidst the explosive noise, that voice rang out clearly, filled with unmistakable joy.

It was a voice Zhu Ping’an recognized instantly—Li Shu’s father, the wealthy Master Li.

“Father! Shu’er is here!”

Inside the carriage, Li Shu’s face lit up with delight. Before the carriage had even come to a complete stop, she eagerly leapt down, unable to contain her excitement.

Just moments ago, when boarding, the maids had carefully placed a stool for her to step on—and now she jumped down like this… what if she fell?

Lifting the curtain, Zhu Ping’an watched as Li Shu gathered her skirt and ran toward her father, her figure as light and joyful as a young swallow returning to its nest. For some reason, a faint trace of something sour stirred in his chest—though he himself did not quite notice it.

Master Li looked much as he always did—dressed like a nouveau riche merchant. A round head topped with a small cap, thick gold rings on both hands, and a jade pendant hanging from his waist, clearly of great value.

The moment he saw the returning carriage, he became visibly excited.

But when he saw Li Shu jump down, his expression turned to alarm. He hurried forward, calling out anxiously, “Careful! Careful, Shu’er! Don’t fall, my precious!”

Then, his face darkened as he barked at the maids who followed behind, “How are you taking care of the young miss?”

Hua’er lowered her head sheepishly, sticking out her tongue in embarrassment, while the others hurried after Li Shu, fearful of incurring their master’s anger.

“Father—”

Li Shu ran up to him, lifting her skirt slightly as she went. Her cheeks were flushed, and her voice carried a hint of affectionate pleading as she called out to him.

“Shu’er, how have you been over there? Has anyone bullied you? Don’t be afraid—your father will stand up for you. Are you used to living there? I’ve already had the embroiderers replicate everything from your boudoir. I’ll have it all sent over in a few days. And I’ve brought back two cooks from the south—they’re excellent at southern cuisine and pastries. I’ll send them to you as well…”

Hearing her call him “Father,” Master Li’s eyes grew moist, as though tears might fall at any moment. He sniffed hard, holding back his emotions, and fussed over her with boundless concern, as if he wished he could move the entire household to her new home.

“I’m doing very well, truly. Father is the best,” Li Shu replied sweetly, holding his hand and swaying it gently, her tone drawn out with affectionate warmth.

“You must be tired from the journey. Come inside—your father has had the kitchen prepare a full table of your favorite dishes,” Master Li said with a tender smile, his voice gentle beyond measure.

He spoiled her just as he had when she was a child—utterly and without restraint.

Watching from behind, Zhu Ping’an couldn’t help but think so.

After waiting for their reunion to settle, he stepped forward respectfully and bowed. “Your son-in-law greets Father-in-law.”

Zhu Ping’an would never forget the look Master Li gave him.

If the man’s gaze toward Li Shu had been as warm as spring sunshine, then the way he looked at Zhu Ping’an now was as cold as the depths of winter.

That expression—

It was as though he were staring at a scoundrel who had abducted his precious daughter. The hostility in his eyes was almost fierce, as if Zhu Ping’an had committed some unforgivable crime.