Chapter 46 – “Dinner at the In-Laws! A Father’s Subtle Inspection of His Future Son-in-Law”

“Okay, sis, see you tonight then. I’m hanging up now.”

Wanqing had just ended her call and returned to her seat beside Ye Fei.

Ye Fei glanced at her and slowly asked, “What’s app? Who was calling just now?”

“My big sis. Who else?”

“And what did she say?”

Wanqing held Ye Fei’s hand tightly and said,

“She told us to head home early for dinner tonight. Don’t be late.”

“Since Dad’s in a good mood today, she said you should make a good impression.”

“Good luck, hubby! I believe my hubby is the best.”

“You’re such an outstanding man—I’m sure my dad will accept and approve of you.”

“I have so much faith in you.”

Wanqing smiled gently. “Because I believe my taste in men can’t possibly be wrong!”

That was a fresh kind of flattery.

Ye Fei suddenly chuckled.

“Relax. Your husband will behave well and won’t let you down.”

“Mhm! I trust you, hubby.”

The two of them started showing off their love without warning—shamelessly throwing dog food around[¹]. They blatantly ignored everyone around them.

Nearby students looked on, completely defeated.

We came here to study, not to watch a live romance drama. Is this public display of affection really necessary?

Meanwhile, at the Zheng family villa— After her call with Wanqing, Wanyu reported to their father, Zheng Jianguo.

“Dad, Wanqing said she and Ye Fei will arrive on time tonight.”

“Let’s get ready in advance so we’re not scrambling once they arrive.”

Getting up from the couch, she added, “Mom, I’ve got some free time. Want me to help you prepare the vegetables?”

Zheng Jianguo sat on the sofa.

A faint smile briefly appeared at the corner of his lips, but vanished quickly—no one noticed.

Though Zheng Jianguo had somewhat traditional values, he still held a grudge against this brat who had casually taken his daughter’s first time.

And Ye Fei’s decision to hide the fact that he owned Qingteng Bar rubbed him the wrong way too.

But after Wanyu’s persistent talks these past few days, and after binge-watching love movies and Korean dramas…

She even educated him on how modern young people view relationships.

Gradually, Zheng Jianguo started to understand a little.

Still, he had to meet Ye Fei in person to really judge. At the very least, he wanted to assess the young man’s character.

He had already surrendered. As long as Ye Fei treated his daughter well, there was nothing more a father could ask for.

After all, she was a grown-up now. Even if he opposed it, it wouldn’t make a difference.

She’s my daughter after all. Her elbow will always lean outward.[²]

Zheng Jianguo let out a helpless smile and muttered to himself.

By 8 PM, Ye Fei and Wanqing finally arrived.

They brought some small gifts with them.

Just as they rang the doorbell, Zheng Wanyu opened the door.

“Sis, we’re here.”

Seeing them standing at the entrance, gifts in hand, she said, “Come in quickly! We’ve been waiting for you. The food’s getting cold.”

As they stepped inside, Zheng Jianguo appeared a little tense but still maintained a strict expression.

In truth, he was panicking inside.

Honestly, Zheng Jianguo was your classic tsundere dad—cold on the outside, soft on the inside.

He always looked fierce, but deep down, he was a total softie.

Every time he scolded Wanqing, he’d secretly worry about how she felt.

But he’d never let her know that.

That’s what being a real father is like.

Li Qiuchun was quite warm and welcoming—mainly because she didn’t expect Ye Fei to be so good-looking. He seemed like a great match for her daughter.

Granted, her ideal son-in-law was some rich heir from a giant corporation.

That way, they could form a strong alliance and benefit the family business.

But the situation was already set in stone. She had no choice but to accept it.

“This must be Xiao Ye. Come in, come in. Dinner’s ready.”

Ye Fei smiled. “Uncle, Auntie, I brought you a small gift.”

Li Qiuchun waved her hand. “Oh, you shouldn’t have! You’re already here—no need to bring anything. Next time, don’t waste money like that. Your uncle and I are pretty easygoing.”

“Besides, we don’t really lack anything. You showing up is good enough.”

“Alright, you all chat. I’m going to use the bathroom.”

Zheng Jianguo stood up. While in the restroom, he pulled out a little notebook from his pocket.

He scribbled down a line: “Brought gifts on the first visit.”

Then he put a checkmark next to it.

Done with his notes, Zheng Jianguo stepped out, ready to keep observing.

Footnotes:

[¹] 撒狗粮 (sǎ gǒu liáng) – Literally “sprinkle dog food”; internet slang meaning to show off your romantic relationship publicly, often making single people feel lonely or envious.

[²] 胳膊肘往外拐 (gēbo zhǒu wǎng wài guǎi) – An idiom meaning someone favors outsiders over their own family, often said humorously or bitterly by parents.