After days of traveling, everyone was exhausted.
After a short rest in the afternoon, the Zhu family prepared a dinner to entertain Lin Shikang in the evening.
"I had heard before that Lin Tanhua was a man of exceptional talent and handsome appearance, and seeing him today, I can confirm that his reputation is well-deserved," said Zhu Chengzhi, the county magistrate, with a smile.
Lin Shikang responded humbly, "Lord Zhu is too kind."
Zhu Chengzhi became more and more satisfied with Lin Shikang, and felt that his plan was very good. He said, "Lin Tanhua is young and promising. Afu, why don't you come over and toast Lin Tanhua?"
As Zhu Chengzhi finished speaking, a young woman gracefully emerged from behind the screen. She was beautiful, with fair skin and captivating eyes that exuded charm.
Lin Tanhua was stunned.
"Lin Tanhua, this is my daughter Afu, who also enjoys literature."
Zhu Chengzhi's meaning was already clear.
Zhu Wenfu said softly, "I have long admired Lin Tanhua's talent. I would like to offer Lin Tanhua a toast."
"Ah Fu, you sit next to Lin Tanhua and pour him wine," Zhu Chengzhi said again.
"No need, Miss Zhu is of noble birth, how could she serve me wine?" Lin Shikang refused.
Zhu Chengzhi naturally understood that Lin Shikang was refusing not only the wine, but also Zhu Wenfu.
However, Zhu Chengzhi was not angry, since he still had a backup plan.
Zhu Chengzhi then said, "If Lin Tanhua doesn't like beautiful women, then let's watch a play. My wife heard that I am hosting a banquet for Lin Tanhua today, so she specially invited a troupe from Xiahuaqiao. One of the plays in this troupe features Lin Tanhua as the protagonist, which is very fitting for the theme of my banquet for Lin Tanhua today."
"What a coincidence?"
Zhu Wenfu responded with a charming laugh: "Isn't it a coincidence? I heard that this opera troupe's plays are very popular in other counties and towns. The name of the play is also interesting. It's called 'The Top Scholar's Son-in-Law,' which is said to praise a poor scholar who has achieved the highest rank in the imperial examinations."
Upon hearing this name, Lin Shikang's heart skipped a beat, and he had a bad feeling.
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