Chapter 1032: Pressuring to Marry (3)

Xiu Xi stayed silent. He didn’t deny being petty; he simply didn’t like Lu Xian, and that was that.

Jiaojiao also noticed this issue. Lu Xian and Lu Zishu were brothers, but it was clear that Xiu Xi disliked Lu Xian more. His attitude toward Lu Zishu was at least somewhat decent.

Jiaojiao thought, "It really is about spending time together—longer interactions lead to better relationships."

Just like three years ago, the Ruan Family’s Lunar New Year dinner was a big reunion. This time, however, it was likely held at the Shu Family residence. Old Shu looked at his wife’s memorial portrait, feeling a little downhearted, thinking how great it would be if she were still here.

Old Shu’s sudden wave of emotion caught everyone off guard.

Shu Jiao exchanged a meaningful glance with Jiaojiao. Jiaojiao immediately ran to Old Shu’s arms, acting cute and playful. She was small, had a sweet voice, and her antics completely disarmed Old Shu. His mood improved in no time.

Everyone assumed that moment of sadness had passed, but unexpectedly, during the meal, Old Shu suddenly sighed again. This time, his melancholic demeanor felt oddly theatrical, almost like he was putting on a show.

Out of respect as juniors, Shu Jiao and the others had no choice but to ask him what was wrong. "Dad, why are you sighing again? We’re all together having a nice family meal—it’s such a rare occasion," Shu Jiao asked.

"Ah..." Old Shu sighed deeply once more, his meaningful gaze falling on Shu Lang across the table.

Shu Lang was drinking with Ruan Jianguo at that moment. Noticing the gaze, Ruan Jianguo mistakenly thought it was directed at him. His spine stiffened in alarm as his mind raced, trying to recall if he had done anything wrong in recent days.

"Ah..." Old Shu let out another long sigh.

At this point, Shu Lang had no choice but to take his father seriously.

"Dad, what’s with all the sighing during the New Year festivities?"

"Do you think I want to sigh?" Old Shu snapped irritably. "Last time I went out—you remember—your Uncle Qian, your Uncle Jiang... and you..."

"Alright, alright! Stop beating around the bush and get to the point, would you?" Shu Lang replied impatiently, stuffing a mouthful of food.

"They all have grandkids! And I’m the only one who doesn’t!" Old Shu’s voice rose in agitation. He jabbed his finger at Shu Lang and shouted, "You’re twenty-seven already—how come you haven’t brought me a grandkid yet?!"

"..." Shu Lang.

It really sounded like his father thought he could give birth to one himself.

"Dad, I’ve been busy at work. Once things settle down, I’ll come spend more time with you. If you’re feeling lonely at home, why not go stay with my brother-in-law for now? What do you think, Jianguo? You’d welcome my dad, wouldn’t you?" Shu Lang turned to ask Ruan Jianguo.

Could Ruan Jianguo possibly say no?

Of course not—he raised both hands in agreement. "Absolutely, Dad! Why don’t you come back with us this year? Our place in town might be a bit cramped, but I’m working hard! Next year, we might even move into a villa."

"You’re considerate," Old Shu replied, unexpectedly pleased. Ruan Jianguo was flattered by this rare display of kindness from his father-in-law. But no sooner had he relaxed than Old Shu’s expression darkened again. "How old were you when you married Xiaojiao?"

"T-Twenty-one..." Ruan Jianguo stammered nervously. Was Old Shu about to dredge up old grievances?

"And do you know how old he is now?"

"Twenty-five?" Ruan Jianguo quickly calculated.

"Twenty-seven! By age reckoning in Beidu, it’s two years higher!" Old Shu rapped the table with his knuckles.

"I don’t care! On the sixth day after the New Year, you must go meet Old Qian’s daughter. If you don’t, this old man won’t be able to eat another bite!"