Shen Chen experienced the true meaning of being at a loss for the first time. Not even during the arduous internal cultivation practice did he feel this way.

Since the day he was born, he had been accompanied by darkness, sinking into the mud.

He was forever plagued by self-doubt, which stemmed from darkness, grew in darkness, and eroded the heart.

Indeed, when you wish to pursue something, you might feel unworthy due to your various reasons.

The Ye Family nodded and said, "Let’s set this matter aside for now. August is the time for the autumn examinations. You must perform well and not let other matters disturb your emotions."

This matter can’t be rushed. Although the Ye Mansion is wealthy, Xiao Chen is considered exceptional among people, while Ah Zhi lacks literary talent, and spends her days practicing martial arts. If Xiao Chen is fond of graceful ladies in the future, what path should the youngest daughter take?

She must observe carefully.

The elder daughter’s marriage was a mistake; now Prince Jin has taken his concubine and left for distant lands. What decorum is this?

However, one cannot force the Emperor to issue a decree to summon them back.

"Okay," Shen Chen replied.

Xun Yin initially probed, but now he’s certain of Xiao Chen’s feelings for Ah Zhi. Xiao Chen has a solitary nature; for significant matters like marriage, if he is uninterested, he would naturally find excuses to avoid them. But his response was concern that Ah Zhi would be wronged, isn’t that clear willingness?

Desist from dismantling ten temples rather than ruin one marriage.

He continued, "Perhaps my sister-in-law could visit Ah Zhi and probe her thoughts."

The Ye Family’s eyes gleamed thoughtfully, "Let’s discuss this matter after Xiao Chen’s autumn examinations in August. Meanwhile, I will also keep an eye on suitable matches around me. Marital matters are always managed by parents, and this is for Ah Zhi’s own good."

Xun Yin also understands Ye Fu’s situation, fearing a poor match might lead Ah Zhi to follow in her elder sister’s footsteps, so he stays silent.

Nearby, Huanhuan quickly sneaks off towards the side hall.

"Ah Zhi, Ah Zhi, big news, big news~"

Even before reaching the side hall, her excited voice rings out.

Ye Zhi was subtly probing into Ming Yan’s romantic affairs, asking if she still secretly liked Master Zhi Chen, when Huanhuan’s voice came bursting through.

She leapt over the threshold and jumped in.

Ye Zhi looked at her with clear eyes and said, "What’s up? Speak slowly; you’re running so hurriedly. If my mother sees you, she’ll mention again that women should have a lady-like gait and posture, gentle and graceful is the most elegant."

The main hall and the side hall are separated by a winding corridor.

Excited, Huanhuan forgot to use her Qinggong, quickly hopping over directly, her face lightly flushed. Ye Zhi poured her a cup of tea to calm down, but unexpectedly, she pushed it away without drinking. Curious, Ye Zhi asked, "Not even drinking water? What’s the matter? Hurry up and tell me."

Completely in the mood for gossip, unaware the gossip was about herself.

Nearby, Ming Yan looked expectantly.

"Just after you left, your parents quarreled over the matter of you not having a betrothed. Later, Uncle Xun recommended Xiao Chen as your husband. Xiao Chen said he’s afraid you’d be wronged marrying him. Your mother said they’ll discuss it after his autumn examinations in August. I’m unsure if it’s a yes or no."

Huanhuan’s eyes rolled around as she quickly spilled all she knew about the situation from beginning to end, clearly.

The room fell silent.

Ye Zhi’s heart was shaken, still trying to grasp the situation. Did this mean the elders intended to pair her with Little Traitor?

Would she become the official female lead?

Ugh, what nonsense about an official female lead.