At the end of the year, the air in Yecheng was filled with a chilly atmosphere, yet it was also brimming with the festive spirit and joy of the New Year.
Lu You and Cheng Zhou's wedding was held in a quaint and elegant garden-style hotel.
On the wedding day, the weather was perfect; the winter sun, though not scorching, was warm enough.
Golden light shone on the pavilions, towers, bridges, and streams of the garden, as if gilding the joyous occasion with a light golden halo.
Shang Wu wore a tailor-made light blue cashmere coat; the coat was impeccably tailored and concealed her pregnant belly.
Far from appearing bulky, it adds a touch of rounded and graceful charm.
Her hair was styled in a bun with only a simple white jade hairpin, and her earlobes were adorned with matching pearl studs. Her eyes held a gentle tenderness that suggested she was about to become a mother.
She stood there, like a beauty who had stepped out of a classical painting, gentle and graceful as jade, elegant as bamboo.
Lu Rang stood beside her, wearing a crisp dark gray suit, his posture upright.
He carefully supported Shang Wu, his eyes constantly watching her feet and her surroundings; his meticulous care was obvious to everyone.
He was in an excellent mood today; the coldness between his brows was replaced by a gentle smile, and when he looked at Shang Wu, his eyes were filled with deep affection.
The wedding ceremony was not held indoors, but rather in an open pavilion overlooking the water.
Red palace lanterns and exquisite silks hung all around, and the guests' seats were Ming-style official hat chairs.
The table is decorated with seasonal flowers such as plum blossoms and daffodils, creating a fresh and elegant atmosphere.
The auspicious hour has arrived, and the sounds of gongs, drums, and flutes fill the air with joyful music.
Cheng Zhou was the first to enter.
Today, he was unusually dressed in a traditional Chinese suit, a dark red long gown embroidered with a pine and crane motif, which gave him a rare air of composure and handsomeness.
Cheng Zhou stood at the end of the open pavilion, looking towards the entrance, his hands clasped together in nervousness.
Then, amidst melodious music and the gazes of the guests, Lu You, led by Lu Zheng, slowly entered the venue.
She didn't wear a phoenix coronet and embroidered robe, but instead wore a modified version of a cheongsam-style main wedding dress.
The upper body is embroidered with exquisite Suzhou embroidery, featuring twin lotus flowers and mandarin ducks, symbolizing happiness and fulfillment. The lower body is draped with a soft gauze skirt, and a red veil covers her head, revealing her bright and charming face.
Lu Zheng was also radiant today, wearing a brand-new Zhongshan suit. When he handed his daughter's hand to Cheng Zhou, he squeezed Cheng Zhou's hand tightly. Although he didn't say much, the entrustment and approval in his eyes were self-evident.
Cheng Zhou nodded solemnly and held Lu You's hand tightly.
The banquet following the ceremony was held indoors in a warm setting, with traditional Chinese round tables, creating a lively and harmonious atmosphere.
After several rounds of drinks and dishes, it was time for relatives and friends to give speeches.
The emcee smiled and invited, "Next, please welcome our bride's younger brother, Mr. Lu Rang, and his wife, Ms. Shang Wu, to the stage to say a few words to everyone."
Amidst applause, Lu Rang carefully helped Shang Wu walk step by step onto the red-carpeted stage.
Shang Wu's pregnant belly was already showing, but she walked with ease. Her light blue coat looked exceptionally fresh and refined against the red background.
Lu Rang took the microphone, adjusted its height, and then handed it to Shang Wu, showing his thoughtfulness in every detail.
He spoke first, his voice steady and strong: "First of all, on behalf of my family, I would like to thank everyone for coming today to witness the marriage of my sister Lu You and Cheng Zhou."
He paused, looked down at the newlyweds clinging tightly to each other below the stage, and his tone became gentle and sincere.
“My sister has always been opinionated and independent than me. She also knows better than me what she wants. I’m happy for her to find her own happiness today.”
His gaze shifted to Cheng Zhou, carrying a hint of warning befitting a younger brother, but more so, approval.
"Cheng Zhou, I'm entrusting one of my most cherished family members to you. Treat her well from now on. If she suffers any injustice, I won't let you off the hook."
Before he could finish speaking, a burst of good-natured laughter and cheers erupted from the audience.
Cheng Zhou shouted from below the stage, "Don't worry! I promise to take good care of Lu You!"
Lu Rang smiled and handed the microphone to Shang Wu.
Shang Wu took the microphone.
Her hand gently rested on her pregnant belly, and her voice flowed slowly through the banquet hall: "Sister and brother-in-law, congratulations."
Shang Wu looked at Lu You, her eyes filled with warmth, "I still remember the first time I saw you, I felt that you were like a bright and warm flame, independent and decisive. I am very happy that today this flame has found a light that can shine and warm each other."
She looked at Cheng Zhou again, her tone slightly teasing, yet full of blessings.
"Cheng Zhou, thank you for melting the iceberg of our Lu family with your persistence and sincerity. From now on, we are truly a family. I wish you happiness and fulfillment."
She turned slightly to the side and leaned against Lu Rang.
Lu Rang immediately reached out and put his arm around her waist to support her.
Shang Wu's pregnancy is quite advanced now, and attending this kind of wedding for a while would be tiring.
Shang Wu continued: "Me, Lu Rang, and our soon-to-be-born baby..."
As she spoke, she gently stroked her belly, "Let's all wish the newlyweds a long and happy marriage."
Lu You, sitting in the audience, nodded vigorously at Shang Wu with slightly moist eyes.
Lu Rang took the microphone from Shang Wu, helped her carefully walk off the stage, and returned to the main table.
Lu Zheng nodded with satisfaction as he watched their loving relationship.
The atmosphere at the ensuing banquet was even more lively.
Cheng Zhou and Lu You changed into toasting attire and went from table to table to offer toasts and express their gratitude.
Shang Wu substituted tea for wine, but Lu was worried about her, so he shielded her from all unnecessary small talk and disturbances, allowing her to enjoy the lively atmosphere in peace.
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