"Brother, you knew she was married, and now you are married too. Do you understand what marriage entails? You took Elder Sister-in-law as your wife; do you know how to be a good husband?" Lin He asked Da Bao very seriously.

"Did Mother say something to you?" Da Bao inquired.

"Mmm, Mother did tell me a few things, but it's not just Mother. I, and the entire family, all have eyes to see. You and Elder Sister-in-law have only been married a few days. Logically, this should be the sweetest time for you both, yet whether I look at Elder Sister-in-law’s face or yours, I see no trace of sweetness. What exactly is the reason for this? Have you not been treating her well?"

"He’er, you know my situation. I am serious about Mei’er. Mei’er is that woman just now. Do you think I could accept Yunqi so quickly?" Da Bao countered Lin He.

"Then why did you agree to Father and Mother’s wishes back then? I told you, since you agreed to marry her, you must treat her well. Otherwise, you should have just broken the engagement back then."

"I thought I could let go of Mei’er then, but some things aren't easily let go just because you say so. Besides, I truly have no feelings for Yunqi. I want to treat her better, but I just can't control myself. I don't even know what's happening," Da Bao sighed, somewhat helplessly.

"Brother, I understand your feelings, and I can sympathize, but I don't agree with your actions. You should know that in this world, no matter how hard we try in the beginning, things often turn out contrary to our wishes—this can happen with feelings or careers. Furthermore, no one can predict matters of the heart; it won't stay with you forever just because you promised to cherish someone for a lifetime. Sometimes, emotion isn't just about two people; it involves too many others and circumstances. Consider family standing, background—only those who don't understand tend to insist so purely."

"Having experienced so much, don't you understand these things yet? Look at that girl just now; wasn't she quite composed when she faced you? That shows she understands these matters, that she has long since moved on from that relationship and is living her own life well. Why can't you do the same?"

"Some things are in the past; let them go. Don't dwell on them anymore. You are a married man now; you must manage your household properly—you are a man. For some decisions you make initially, you must see them through, whether they turn out right or wrong; ultimately, it was your choice."

"Elder Sister-in-law might not be the type you favor. She might not be capable either, but she harbors no ill will. Treat her well, and feelings will slowly develop."

Lin He’s words were quite extensive, and Da Bao felt a stir upon hearing them. He had to admit that every word his sister spoke was reasonable and sensible; he had truly been too stubborn. Perhaps some things he was too fixated on, trapping himself and hurting others in the process.

Seeing Da Bao’s expression, Lin He patted his shoulder and said, "Brother, think carefully about what I've said. Regarding Mother, I've spoken with her too. She truly means well for you; don't blame her."

Da Bao shook his head, indicating he didn't blame Mother. After a pause, he said, "He’er, I envy you. I envy that you and Wen Ningxuan can stay together for life."

Hearing Da Bao, Lin He smiled helplessly, "Brother, some things cannot be judged merely by appearances. Ningxuan and I have paid a considerable price to reach this point, and it hasn't been as smooth as you imagine. There are always unforeseen difficulties. Consider Ningxuan's family—for them to accept our humble household, hasn't Ningxuan faced hardships? He just doesn't tell me, and I pretend not to know."

"Yes, He’er, you are right. Nothing in life is entirely smooth sailing; one must rely on their own efforts. Don't worry; I will live my life well from now on and stop making the family worry about my affairs," Da Bao said, suddenly breaking into a smile after a moment of silence.

Lin He looked at Da Bao’s smile, wondering if her brother had finally understood. But regardless, whether Da Bao didn't want them to worry or had genuinely seen the light, in the end, he had to live his own life; no one could do it for him.

Da Bao sat for a moment, then remembered something and asked, "He’er, what you said earlier—does that imply someone in the Wen family looks down on our family? But that doesn't seem right. Last time Boss Wen and Madam Wen came to propose, their etiquette was impeccable; everything seemed fine?"

"No, I was just giving an example. But difficulties always exist, though Ningxuan will handle them. Don't worry, and don't mention it to Father and Mother. Anyway, at this point, I don't want to dwell on it. Life must go on," Lin He said with a faint smile.

Da Bao nodded, looking at Lin He’s demeanor. He knew things weren't as simple as He’er made them sound, but since she didn't want to elaborate, he wouldn't press the issue. Moreover, Da Bao knew his sister was clever and would handle her own affairs. Besides, she had him, Father, Mother, and this family supporting her back, not to mention Wen Ningxuan backing her up.

After talking with Da Bao, Lin He took Ziyu and left. It was the first day after the New Year, and the streets were bustling with many people and incessant hawking sounds. Lin He hadn't been out in a long time and strolled with Ziyu for quite a while before planning to return to the shop.

However, halfway there, Lin He unexpectedly ran into Madam Wen. Ziyu spotted Madam Wen from afar and whispered, "Miss, Madam Wen is ahead. Should we greet her, or should we pretend not to see and walk this way?"

Lin He figured Madam Wen had probably seen them already. Regardless, a greeting was necessary. She walked over with Ziyu, putting a smile on her face, curtsied to Madam Wen, and called out, "Greetings, Madam Wen."

Madam Wen looked at Lin He and didn't say much, a faint smile also gracing her lips. She said, "Miss Lin, out in town today? Xuan'er has gone to Qinghe County; did you know?"

"Mmm, Second Young Master mentioned it. I suppose there must be some matters at the factory requiring his attention," Lin He replied with a smile.

"Mother, is this the 'He’er' Third Brother is always talking about? She seems ordinary enough, nothing special. It's a wonder Third Brother praised her so highly; isn't she just a country girl?" The voice came from a young girl beside Madam Wen.

The girl looked about eleven or twelve, with a small, delicate nose and cherry-like, thin lips. Although she possessed a refined and flawless face, her expression was utterly repulsive. Lin He noticed the girl bore a striking resemblance to Madam Wen and guessed this must be Miss Qingmo, the favored daughter of the Wen family Ziyu had mentioned before.