Chapter 308: Mindfulness
Shen Yixiang and Shen Yiguang bore a striking resemblance around their brows and eyes, which lent Shen Yixiang a somewhat masculine aura. She looked incredibly spirited, the kind many sought in a daughter-in-law. People with such an appearance usually come across as competent, and even if they’re not exceptionally capable, they are easy to get along with—straightforward and direct individuals, generally speaking.
Moreover, apart from her handsome features, Shen Yixiang was also a pretty girl, with a rosy and healthy complexion. She sat there, neither shying away nor blushing, exuding a confidence that made her stand out. Some observant guests remembered her earlier assistance in the kitchen, recognizing her as a diligent and capable girl who could manage a household. She got along well with her sister-in-law, had taken the initiative to help take care of her pregnant sister-in-law, and her sensible and kind-hearted actions only made her more endearing as time went by—they felt she was someone not to be missed.
However, Shen Yiguang, her older cousin, was not someone easily fooled. It was impossible to bypass him. Although the leader was known to crack a joke in private from time to time, he was utterly stern and authoritative when it mattered, with no room for personal feelings. His strong and superior methods demanded respect, which made those around him nervous and cautious in his presence.
Shen Yiguang glanced over at them with a hint of a smile, teasingly saying, "Scram, I invited you all to eat today, no hidden agendas."
A few groaned in dismay below.
Yet some daring souls, risking their lives, prepared to step up and take a chance. The first to do so poured Shen Yiguang a glass of wine, the 1.1 yuan per bottle Jingzhi Bai Gan, a liquor usually too precious for regular consumption. Thus, some guests had been secretly pleased by its appearance at the table, looking for an opportunity to drink more. Now, pouring for Shen Yiguang, their gestures fittingly respectful, "Look at what you’re saying. If there’s anything amiss here, just tell us, and we’ll do our best to set it right. You see, these are all tried and true matters..."
The tone suggested this was no joking matter. This comrade named Lu Haijun was spirited and well-proportioned.
Everyone perked up as if energized with excitement.
Knockabout smiles spread across the faces, sweeping toward Shen Yixiang.
Yang PeiMin didn’t want to upset her young aunt and was about to speak out to shield her; however, Shen Yixiang took the field herself, needing no assistance, "Honestly, I’m not interested in considering this right now, but I do admire military men. It’s just that I’m still young and want to work for a couple more years, earn some money, and take care of my parents first."