The Feng family proposed marriage, and a happy union was agreed upon.
Liu Mianying's subtle and pervasive approach proved remarkably effective. Feng Yanshu's heart, previously solely devoted to classical texts, had been quietly won over by the intelligent, charming, and understanding daughter of a merchant. Meanwhile, under Liu Mianying's numerous unobtrusive visits and perfectly timed care, Madam Feng's fondness for this "unusual" Liu family daughter grew significantly. Her previous prejudices against the traditional social hierarchy of "scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants" gradually faded in the face of genuine human warmth.
When the time was right, the Liu family asked a retired vice minister from the Ministry of Rites, who had some connections with both families and was highly respected, to act as matchmaker and formally propose marriage to the Feng family.
On the day of the marriage proposal, the atmosphere in the hall of the Feng family mansion was solemn yet harmonious.
Although Master Liu was a merchant, his speech and manners were proper and generous, without any trace of greed. He sincerely said, "My daughter, Mianying, although born into a merchant family, has been well-versed in poetry and literature since childhood, and is sensible and knows how to conduct herself. She has long admired Young Master Feng's character and learning. I dare not presume to associate with such a distinguished family; I only wish that my daughter can meet a good man and have a smooth life."
Vice Minister Feng was an upright man, but not a pedantic one. He had already heard about Liu Mianying's many virtues from his wife and son, and with the matchmaker's strong encouragement, he was already seven or eight parts in favor. He stroked his beard and pondered, "Brother Liu is too modest. I have also heard of your daughter's intelligence and virtue. However... this marriage still needs to be discussed with Yanshu himself."
All eyes turned to Feng Yanshu, who stood respectfully to the side. He was dressed in a brand-new scholar's robe, his face slightly flushed. He rose and bowed solemnly to both sets of elders, his voice clear and firm: "Father, Mother, Uncle Liu. This nephew...this nephew has long admired Miss Liu. Miss Liu is exceptionally kind and understanding, unlike any ordinary woman. If I could find such a worthy match, it would be my great fortune."
He spoke frankly, though with the shyness typical of a scholar, his attitude was clear. Seeing her son's reaction, Madam Feng smiled with relief. Vice Minister Feng nodded as well, his last remaining concern vanishing.
The two families quickly reached an agreement and exchanged preliminary marriage contracts on the spot, thus formalizing the engagement. The subsequent details were then discussed by the women of both families and the matchmaker.
The process of discussing the details of the marriage further highlighted Liu Mianying's quick wit and intelligence.
When discussing the betrothal gifts and dowry, the Liu family displayed remarkable sincerity and thoughtfulness. Master Liu took the initiative to say, "The Feng family is a distinguished family, so the betrothal gifts need not be too extravagant, as long as they conform to etiquette. As for the dowry, my daughter has managed some businesses since childhood and has accumulated some savings, which will accompany her when she marries into the family. Firstly, it will be for her own use, and secondly... it may also be of some help to my nephew Yanshu in his future endeavors in the Hanlin Academy, in making connections with scholars and publishing his works."
This was an extremely eloquent statement. It respected the Feng family's reputation, avoided any appearance of "flaunting wealth," and genuinely provided support for Feng Yanshu's future career and academic research. It transformed the wealth of a merchant into assistance for her husband's career, making it impossible for anyone to refuse.
Madam Feng was initially worried that the customs of merchant families would be different, but the nanny sent by the Liu family was extremely proper in her speech and manners, and knew all the wedding etiquette procedures by heart. She was even more particular than many officials, which put Madam Feng at ease.
After discussion, both parties decided to hold the wedding in the spring of next year. Firstly, this would allow ample time for preparations; secondly, springtime, with its blooming flowers, is auspicious.
The marriage was arranged, and the news spread quickly.
Inside Prince Yi's residence, Qin Yuti, upon hearing the news, was genuinely happy for her cousin and her best friend. Zhao Jingyi, however, stroked his chin, a knowing look on his face: "Tsk tsk, that girl Liu Mianying, she's got some skills! She won over your bookish cousin without a sound! It seems that in this capital, when it comes to 'taming a husband'... oh no, I mean finding a good match, she and your wife are a match!"
Qin Yuti rolled her eyes at him, annoyed: "Do you think everyone is like you, needing to be 'tamed'?"
Zhao Jingyi immediately leaned closer, grinning, "I've been 'tamed' by the Princess Consort! I'm doing this willingly!"
The most excited of all was Shen Anci. She rushed straight to Liu Mianying's "Mianying Pavilion," laughing and patting her shoulder: "You, Ying'er! You really got it done! Tell me, how did you make that old-fashioned scholar see the light? Did you use some kind of 'honey trap'?"
Liu Mianying blushed and scolded, "Sister Anci! What nonsense are you talking about! I...I was just sincere!"
Xu Nianchu also sent a congratulatory gift and was pleased for Liu Mianying. In this way, the four close friends all found their own happiness, and although the process was full of ups and downs, the ending was finally satisfactory.
A marriage that seemed to be of vastly different social standing eventually became a beautiful story thanks to Liu Mianying's wise management and Feng Yanshu's sincere acceptance.
This adds another significant chapter to the marriage charts of the capital.
Next, all that remains is for the bridal sedan chair to arrive next spring, thus creating a beautiful tale of a scholar and a merchant.
Meanwhile, amidst all the joyous news, Prince Yi's mansion welcomed another day in which the princess's pregnancy was gradually stabilizing, but the prince was still showing obvious signs of "pregnancy brain."
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