Meanwhile, outside the gates of the Shen Mansion, the atmosphere was quite different – ​​a mix of intense "killing intent" and well-intentioned harassment.

The wedding procession from the Yongding Marquis's residence was grand and imposing, filled with the sounds of gongs and drums. Dressed in a bright red wedding robe, which made him even more handsome and dashing, Xiao Ze was escorted to the gate of the Shen residence, his face beaming with barely suppressed joy and anticipation. However, the tightly closed vermilion gate and the three "door gods" lined up in front of it caused his smile to freeze slightly.

On the left is Shen Huaiyu's older brother, Shen Huaijin, dressed in a royal blue brocade robe, arms crossed, a half-smile playing on his lips, his eyes sharp as an eagle's. On the right is Shen Huaiyu's cousin, Shen Rui, now a father, his demeanor much more composed, though a mischievous smile still lingers in his eyes. And standing in the middle, hands on hips, his small face trying to maintain a serious expression, is none other than the fourth young master of the Jing Prince's Mansion, Yan Ge'er, who has just turned fourteen!

"Brother Ze, this road is blocked!" Shen Huaijin spoke first, his voice booming. "Taking away the apple of our Shen family's eye is not such an easy task!"

Xiao Ze took a deep breath, knowing that the "test" had arrived. He calmly dismounted and bowed deeply to the three men, adopting an extremely humble posture: "Brother Huaijin, Brother Shen Ruitang, and Brother Yan, I have come today to marry Huaiyu with utmost sincerity. I humbly request that you three be kind enough to grant me this favor." The servants from the Marquis's residence behind him immediately and cleverly presented the heavy red envelopes that had been prepared beforehand.

Yan Ge'er, being the youngest, had his eyes light up instantly when he saw the bulging red envelope. He tried to keep a straight face and said, "Hmph! A red envelope is a must! But... but just having a red envelope isn't enough!" He puffed out his little chest. "My cousin is the best girl in the world! You have to tell me how you're going to treat my cousin well in the future. If you dare to bully her, I... I'll be the first to object! My dad, my mom, my older brothers, my second older brothers, my third older sister, and my fourth older sister won't agree!" He tried to imitate an adult's tone, but with the childishness unique to boys, which drew good-natured laughter from the surrounding guests who were watching the spectacle.

Looking at Yan Ge'er's earnest little face, Xiao Ze smiled inwardly and solemnly promised, "Yan Ge'er, rest assured, and please let your father-in-law and mother-in-law, Brother Huai Jin, Brother Shen Ruitang, and all the relatives and friends present witness! In this life, Xiao Ze will cherish Huai Yu as a treasure, respect her, love her, protect her, and never let her suffer the slightest grievance! If I break this vow, may heaven and earth not forgive me!" His voice was clear and resounding.

As a married man, Shen Rui smiled and posed the question: "Talk is not enough! My cousin is exceptionally talented. Prince Ze must compose a poem on the spot using the characters 'Spring' and 'Jade' to express your feelings!"

This question isn't too difficult, but it requires quick wit. Xiao Ze pondered for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the newly blooming plum blossoms at the entrance of the Shen residence, and then said loudly:

"The spring breeze first touches the Shen family gate, red makeup reflects the snow and shines brightly. I wish to win your heart forever, to cherish this good time and to be true to you."

Although the poem wasn't particularly brilliant, it was sincere and heartfelt, closely adhering to the theme, and drew widespread praise.

The final act was Shen Huaijin's turn. He stepped forward, his eyes fixed intently on Xiao Ze: "The poem is quite good. However..." He deliberately dragged out his words, "If you want to take my sister away, you'll have to get past me first! Brother Ze, listen carefully: What's my sister's favorite snack? What small animal is she most afraid of? When she's angry, does she remain silent first or shed tears first?"

This question was tricky, full of everyday details, and only someone close to her could answer it. Xiao Ze, however, remained calm and composed, even a gentle smile playing on his lips, and answered clearly: "Huaiyu's favorite food is the Osmanthus Cake made in the Shen family's small kitchen, which is slightly sweet but not greasy; she is most afraid of hairless soft-bodied insects, such as earthworms, and will scream when she sees them; if she is really angry, she will first purse her lips and not speak, and her eyes will slowly redden; only when she is extremely aggrieved will she shed tears."

His answers were quick and accurate, revealing genuine emotion in the details. As Shen Huaijin listened, the "difficult" look on his face gradually faded, replaced by satisfaction and a hint of relief. He patted Xiao Ze's shoulder forcefully, his voice filled with emotion: "Good lad! You passed! Remember what you said today!" He stepped aside, waving his hand, "Open the door! Welcome the bride!"

The heavy vermilion gate slowly opened amidst the deafening sounds of gongs and drums and cheers. Xiao Ze's eyes blazed with immense joy. He bowed solemnly once more to Shen Huaijin, Shen Rui, and Yan Ge'er, then strode eagerly toward the inner courtyard, which was overflowing with happiness and anticipation.

Inside the boudoir, the commotion outside had already been heard. Ning'er excitedly ran to the window and peered out: "He's here! Cousin Ze has passed the test!" She turned back to Shen Huaiyu, winking, "Cousin! Get ready to be picked up!"

Shen Huaiyu's heart leaped into her throat, a mixture of joy, shyness, and anticipation. Supported by Shen Yuewei and her sisters, she slowly rose. Adorned in a phoenix coronet and wedding gown, with beaded curtains swaying, each step felt like walking on clouds.

When Xiao Ze finally appeared at the door of the boudoir, the moment their eyes met, the clamor seemed to fade away. His eyes held undisguised amazement and an overwhelming, unyielding love. He strode forward, bowing deeply to Shen Yuewei, Lin Qingrou, and the other women. Then, his gaze fixed intently on Shen Huaiyu, whose face was veiled by a red veil, his voice low and firm, filled with boundless respect:

"Huaiyu, I've come to pick you up."

Amidst the wedding officiant's loud chants, the blessings of relatives and friends, and a shower of flower petals and confetti, Xiao Ze steadily took Shen Huaiyu's hand. Shen Huaijin, as her elder brother, carried his sister on his back, step by step, out of the bridal chamber and towards the bridal sedan chair. Shen Yuewei watched her niece's departing figure, secretly wiping away tears from the corners of her eyes, and exchanged a smile with her husband, Xiao Chengjing, beside her.

The bridal sedan chair was lifted, and joyous music filled the air. In front of the Shen residence, Shen Huaijin, Shen Rui, and Yan Ge'er stood side by side, watching the sedan chair depart. Shen Huaijin's eyes held a hint of reluctance, but even more so, a blessing for his younger sister's future. Ning Jie'er excitedly chased after the sedan chair, waving vigorously.