Chapter 55: Let Us Finalize the Marriage!

“This isn’t chauvinism; this is called gentlemanly conduct.”
“Gentlemanly conduct? In the West, men and women usually split the bill evenly when they go out to eat.”
“Really?”
“Of course it’s true.”
“Then those Western men must be shameless, splitting the bill with women at dinner.”
“I told you, that’s just your chauvinism talking.”

The two were engrossed in their lively conversation, which pleased Hong Haifeng, who had been quietly observing from the kitchen.

His desire to play matchmaker for Qin Feng and Hong Yue wasn’t just about his own future—it was also for Hong Yue’s lifelong happiness. Qin Feng was a suitable match in terms of looks, character, and family background, particularly considering Hu Jiayun, the “older sister.”

When the dishes were served, Hong Haifeng took out some treasured wine from home and poured a glass for Qin Feng.

“Qin Feng, I called you here today mainly to thank you for helping Hong Yue buy the computer last time. The car broke down, and you ended up spending a night out in the wilderness—I feel truly sorry about that.” Hong Haifeng said this as he toasted with Qin Feng.

Qin Feng knew very well why Hong Haifeng had called him over; these were just polite words.

“Director Hong, you’re too modest. I should be the one apologizing for making Hong Yue suffer that night.”

After several rounds of drinking, Hong Haifeng, half-drunk and half-awake, finally spoke up: “Qin Feng, Hong Yue, I’m a straightforward person, so I’ll be frank today.”

“Go ahead, Director Hong,” Qin Feng nodded, already knowing what was coming. He gave Hong Yue a subtle glance that said the real show was about to begin.

---

“Last time, Secretary Xu directly promised to arrange a match for you two, and Secretary Hu agreed as well. It’s been over a month now, and from what I’ve seen, you both get along quite well.”

“Today, I want to hear your thoughts. If you both think the other is suitable, we can finalize this. Secretary Xu even asked me specifically about it today.”

“Secretary Xu has given us tremendous face with this. Given his status, how could he possibly be a matchmaker for someone else? Qin Feng, what do you think?” Hong Haifeng said, looking at Qin Feng.

By invoking Secretary Xu’s name, Hong Haifeng effectively cut off any chance of Qin Feng refusing. Besides, as a man, Qin Feng couldn’t outright reject this, especially if he had any respect for Hong Yue.

“Yes, Secretary Xu’s agreement and concern really honor me, and I’m very grateful to you, Director Hong. However... I think we should first hear Hong Yue’s opinion.” Qin Feng cleverly shifted the responsibility to Hong Yue.

His thinking was simple: Hong Yue didn’t have much affection for him and would likely refuse. If she rejected, all the problems Qin Feng faced would vanish.

“Hong Yue, what do you think?” Hong Haifeng asked.

“Brother... we’re just friends,” Hong Yue said, blushing.

“Being friends is a start. Going from strangers to friends already says a lot. You’re both grown up now and should consider personal matters. Besides, Secretary Xu cares about this. So, tell me honestly today—do you agree or not?”

“If you agree, we can move forward and finalize this. If not, then there’s nothing more to discuss, right?” Hong Haifeng pressed for an answer.

Hong Yue’s face flushed deeper as she said, “I don’t want to eat with you anymore,” then stood up and hurried into her bedroom, closing the door behind her.

This move left Qin Feng stunned. He had hoped for a clear refusal to ease his predicament, but although Hong Yue didn’t agree, she hadn’t uttered a single word of rejection. How was he to respond now?

Hong Haifeng laughed heartily, watching Hong Yue’s embarrassed retreat.

“Qin Feng, Hong Yue’s attitude is clear—she agrees.”

---

“What? She didn’t say that, did she?”

“You’re still too young to understand women. When it comes to matters like this, if a woman doesn’t oppose, it means she agrees. You expect her to say it outright? Our girl is shy—she wouldn’t say it, but I know her well.” Hong Haifeng poured another glass for Qin Feng.

Qin Feng smiled awkwardly and said nothing, unsure of what to say, while urging Hong Haifeng to drink more, hoping to get him drunk.

“Qin Feng, I need a clear answer from you today. What do you really think of Hong Yue? Do you like her or not?” Hong Haifeng asked seriously, setting down his glass.

“I like her... of course I like her.” Qin Feng had never felt so cornered in his life.

At a moment like this, how could he say he didn’t like her? Saying no would offend both Hong Haifeng and Secretary Xu, and more importantly, would be a severe blow to Hong Yue.

“That’s all I need to hear. Tomorrow I’ll visit Secretary Xu and Secretary Hu, and we’ll finalize this.” Before Qin Feng could finish, Hong Haifeng interrupted.

“Wait, wait, Director Hong, please let me finish.” Qin Feng was startled and quickly spoke.

“Hong Yue is beautiful, kind-hearted, gentle, and understanding. If I said I didn’t like her, I’d be lying. But liking her doesn’t mean we know each other well—I’ve only known Hong Yue for about a month and have only met her three times; today is the fourth.”

“Of course I hope we can be together soon, but marriage is a lifelong matter. Once decided, there’s no turning back. It’s easier for a man to decide, but for a young woman, it’s a very serious matter.”

“I think we shouldn’t rush. Let’s get to know each other better and spend more time together. This would be more responsible to Hong Yue. You wouldn’t want me to be irresponsible, would you, Director Hong? Isn’t that right?” Qin Feng said as gently as he could.

While Qin Feng spoke, Hong Yue quietly listened behind the bedroom door, her cheeks flushed with a rosy glow.