Chapter 29

The Pressure of Forced Marriage The early autumn breeze carried a slight chill. Lin Xiaoxiao stood by the library window, gazing at the falling leaves outside, feeling a bit uneasy. Lu Tingshen's phone call broke her reverie. "Xiaoxiao, are you free this weekend? I want to take you to a special place." There was a hint of mystery in Lu Tingshen's voice. Lin Xiaoxiao hesitated for a moment, "Tingshen, I... I have some things to deal with recently." Lu Tingshen sensed her hesitation, "What's wrong? Is there any trouble?" Lin Xiaoxiao sighed, "It's family matters. My parents have been pressuring me lately..." Lu Tingshen was silent for a moment, then said, "Xiaoxiao, no matter what difficulties you face, I will be by your side." A warm feeling surged in Lin Xiaoxiao's heart, "Thank you, Tingshen." Over the weekend, Lin Xiaoxiao returned home, feeling both helpless and anxious in the face of her parents' pressure to marry. Her parents sat on the living room sofa, looking serious. "Xiaoxiao, you're not young anymore. It's time to consider personal matters." Her father's words were resolute and unquestionable. Lin Xiaoxiao sat opposite them, her heart full of conflict, "Dad, Mom, I know you mean well, but I don't think it's the right time yet." Her mother sighed, "Xiaoxiao, we just hope you can find a good partner and live a happy life." Lin Xiaoxiao lowered her head, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her clothes, "I know, but I hope my marriage is because of love, not because of age or other reasons." Her father frowned, "Love is important, but a stable life and family are equally important." Lin Xiaoxiao felt a wave of powerlessness. She knew her parents were concerned, but she hoped to choose her future according to her own wishes. After learning about Lin Xiaoxiao's troubles, Lu Tingshen decided to visit her home, hoping to alleviate her pressure. "Xiaoxiao, I want to talk to your parents and help them understand your thoughts," Lu Tingshen said on the phone. Lin Xiaoxiao hesitated, "Tingshen, I don't want you to feel troubled because of me." Lu Tingshen said firmly, "Xiaoxiao, I want you to be happy. I'm willing to do anything for you." Over the weekend, Lu Tingshen arrived at Lin Xiaoxiao's home with a bouquet of flowers and some carefully selected gifts. "Hello, Uncle and Aunt. I'm Tingshen," Lu Tingshen greeted Lin Xiaoxiao's parents politely. Lin Xiaoxiao's parents scrutinized him, their eyes filled with assessment, "Tingshen, we've heard about you. Xiaoxiao often mentions you." Lu Tingshen smiled, "I'm glad to meet you. I know you care about Xiaoxiao's future, and so do I." Her father nodded, "You are a responsible young man, but we hope Xiaoxiao can settle down soon." Lu Tingshen said seriously, "I understand your concerns, but I believe Xiaoxiao has the ability to choose the life she wants." Her mother sighed, "We just worry that she will be lonely." Lu Tingshen held Lin Xiaoxiao's hand, "Auntie, I will always be with Xiaoxiao, supporting her choices." Lin Xiaoxiao looked at Lu Tingshen, her heart full of gratitude. After a deep conversation, Lin Xiaoxiao's parents gradually understood her thoughts and saw Lu Tingshen's sincerity towards her. "Xiaoxiao, we respect your choice and hope you will be happy," her father finally said. Tears glistened in Lin Xiaoxiao's eyes, "Thank you, Dad, Mom." Lu Tingshen and Lin Xiaoxiao stood at the door, watching her parents leave. "Xiaoxiao, being able to have an honest conversation with your parents today felt very meaningful," Lu Tingshen said. Lin Xiaoxiao nestled beside him, "Tingshen, thank you. With you here, I truly feel happy." The two strolled under the moonlight, enjoying the tranquility of the night. "Xiaoxiao, no matter what the future holds, I will stay by your side," Lu Tingshen said softly. Lin Xiaoxiao tightly held his hand, "Me too, Tingshen." Their hearts were filled with anticipation for the future and deep affection for each other.