"Only wealthy families in the county town would prepare so many gifts."

“For families in the village, preparing two or three items, plus a few taels of betrothal money, is about right.”

Grandma Qiao snorted: "I just want to show those people who say that our Qiao family's grandsons will never be able to find wives and that our lineage will end."

It wasn't just about being kind to the Ling family girl and giving the Ling family face; she had been holding back a grudge and wanted to vent it all.

"After Dayong gets married, it will be Dacheng next, Xi'er girl."

"Grandma, I'm not in a hurry. I'll wait another year or two and spend more time at home with everyone," Qiao Xi'er said.

Her words reminded Old Mrs. Qiao: "The family our Qiao family daughters marry into must be an open-minded one, the kind where they can go back to their parents' home whenever they want."

"Such a big courtyard, with a large room for everyone, isn't it meant for everyone to live in?"

"So if you find a suitable family, settle down with them to avoid them being snatched away by someone else. In these surrounding villages, there are only a few families with good family traditions who can arrange marriages for you when you reach the right age. Xi'er, don't be reluctant. You can come back to the Qiao family anytime—"

As Grandma Qiao was speaking, Qiao Yunni nudged her with her elbow and gave her a meaningful look.

Grandma Qiao suddenly remembered.

The old man in the family had already found a good man for Xi'er, and she was still here trying to arrange a marriage for Xi'er.

He's getting senile.

"Oh dear, let's consider your brother Da Yong and brother Da Cheng's marriage first. We'll talk about yours later. Our Xi'er is only fifteen years old, still young."

She actually quite liked Mu Xinghe.

It's pitiful to have no parents, but if Xi'er really marries him, there will be fewer troubles in getting along, which will save her some worry.

Seeing that Old Madam Qiao had suddenly changed her tune, Qiao Xi'er looked puzzled.

Moreover, the mother and daughter exchanged glances just now, as if they were hiding something from him.

Qiao Lian'er also remembered this matter. Counting the days, the exams should have ended and the results released, and Mu Xinghe should be back by now.

As if on cue, a figure appeared ahead, carrying a book box on his back, walking step by step forward.

"Brother Xinghe," Qiao Lian'er called out.

Mu Xinghe turned his head, his face full of ambition and his eyes shining.

Grandma Qiao told the driver to stop the oxcart and let Mu Xinghe get on as well.

"Star River, you're back."

Despite the long journey, Mu Xinghe looked somewhat tired, yet he seemed to be supported by something, displaying great spirit.

"Yes, have a safe journey." Mu Xinghe only reported the good news and not the bad. When he arrived in the county town, he had almost run out of money and had to walk dozens of miles back.

He was tired and hungry, but in a good mood.

He glanced at Qiao Xier subconsciously. She had changed into a floral dress, which made her face look dewy and beautiful, like a flower, with sparkling eyes.

During this time, her image would occasionally flash through his mind, but he told himself not to think too much and to focus on preparing for the exam.

Ms. Feng asked, "Have all the exams finished?"

"The exam is over, and I've passed and become a government-subsidized student."