Chapter 1214: Chapter 1214: Worthy of the Lord’s Approval?
The return of Song Lingsu made the Song Family more lively. After a family reunion dinner, he was called to the study by Song Zhiyuan, who first examined his studies and then brought up the matter of marriage.
Although mentally prepared, Song Lingsu still felt a bit embarrassed and stammered, "Marriage is the mandate of parents. Whatever you and mother decide is fine."
Song Zhiyuan smiled and said, "Though it is the mandate of parents, you must truly approve yourself. Only if both young couples find each other suitable can they live together harmoniously and sweetly, able to discuss things and support each other in the future. Su’er, a harmonious and melodious relationship is indeed more joyful than just being polite to each other."
Song Lingsu was a bit moved.
"In fact, not only must we approve, but the other party must approve you as well. The child in question is the youngest daughter of Duke Dingguo, and she is very cherished. Duke Dingguo and his wife surely wish to find a suitable son-in-law. I am not worried about Madam Guan, they say mothers-in-law, the more they see their son-in-law, the more they like him. It’s just Duke Dingguo who may pose some challenges for you, so when you respond, you should display the demeanor of the eldest legitimate son of the Prime Minister’s Mansion."
Song Lingsu straightened his chest and nodded solemnly.
Song Zhiyuan patted him on the shoulder, saying, "You are the eldest legitimate son. Once you are settled, it will be easier to arrange marriages for your younger brothers, so there’s reason to settle early. Remember, you are in no way lesser than anyone else. If the other party truly doesn’t approve, we will simply seek elsewhere. There’s no need to lament endlessly over it."
Song Lingsu laughed and said, "I understand, father."
Song Zhiyuan gave him some more advice, then let him go to rest, instructing him to submit a visiting card tomorrow and accompany him to the Duke Mansion.
Visiting immediately after returning to the mansion shows utmost sincerity.
...
Duke Dingguo indeed was somewhat satisfied. He was well aware of the happenings in the capital and knew that Song Lingsu had only returned to the Prime Minister’s Mansion yesterday, and today submitted a visiting card to meet him. The sincerity of the Prime Minister’s Mansion was evident, leaving no room for fault.
Looking at Song Lingsu, dressed in a long blue robe, with a tall and refined appearance, a countenance like a polished jade, and a gentle demeanor, Duke Dingguo couldn’t help but sigh. Regardless of anything else, just his appearance, combined with his family background, made him the ideal son-in-law in the eyes of many a noblewoman.
No wonder even his own wife approved of him; he certainly had some outstanding qualities.
Duke Dingguo cast a glance at Song Zhiyuan, who was leisurely sipping tea, allowing him to be scrutinized generously, and then engaged in conversation with Song Lingsu.
Duke Dingguo had a stern and imposing presence, and a tough and dominant aura. At first, Song Lingsu was quite nervous. After all, being young and having a purpose in mind, it was only natural to feel a bit tense.
But as they talked more, Song Lingsu gradually became more composed. Although he couldn’t answer some questions fluently, he expressed unique insights for someone his age, which made Duke Dingguo see him in a slightly different light.
The eldest legitimate son of the Prime Minister’s Mansion indeed fit the description of being exceptional.
Duke Dingguo’s expression softened, his smile emerging slightly, but noticing Song Zhiyuan’s gaze from the corner of his eye, he quickly concealed his smile.
"I still have an unfinished game with your father. Go to the main courtyard to meet the madam," Duke Dingguo dismissed Song Lingsu, summoning a page boy and a maidservant to guide him to the main courtyard.
Song Lingsu bowed deeply, gracefully withdrew, and only upon exiting the study did he notice his palms were clammy, and he took a deep breath.
"This way, Young Master Song," the page boy led the way with a beaming smile.
Song Lingsu smiled cautiously, reminding himself that there was still another hill to climb.
In the study, Song Zhiyuan asked Duke Dingguo with a smile, "So, how does my eldest son fare in your eyes, my lord?"
