Qiao Xuan and Yang Xiaoni tactfully ignored Mother-in-law's teary eyes, choosing instead to offer comforting words about Taotao's bright future. Their laughter helped ease the tension, and Ms. Fang visibly relaxed.
Realizing that crying on such a joyful occasion wouldn't be appropriate, Ms. Fang regained her composure. She took solace in the fact that Taotao was marrying into a family where she wouldn't be mistreated. If Taotao ever wished to return, she could do so freely, maintaining contact with her birth family.
With spirits lifted, Ms. Fang invited everyone to return to the banquet.
Despite initial reluctance from Ms. Ma and Third Uncle, they couldn't afford to snub the event. The thought of the first section of the family seizing the marriage left them feeling aggrieved. However, boycotting the celebration would only fuel rumors of discord within their own branch of the family.
How could this be tolerated! The couple begrudgingly accepted their fate.
