I have been in a relationship with Gu Jinzhi for eight years.
He's getting older, and his family is really urging him, so he finally proposed marriage to me.
Gu Jinzhi said he doesn't like fanfare, that marriage is a matter between two people, and he doesn't want a wedding, just a marriage certificate.
As for the engagement banquet, it's just a meal with the two families gathered together.
I booked the hotel and arranged everything thoughtfully to take care of both sets of parents and elders.
At seven in the evening, everyone had arrived except for Gu Jinzhi.
I called him several times, but no one answered.
Mrs. Gu frowned, and apologetically said to my mother:
"My son is really out of line, once he gets here, I'll surely give him a good talking to."
My mother is very satisfied with Gu Jinzhi as a son-in-law; the Gu Family is in business and has a prestigious background.
However, Gu Jinzhi didn't develop a spoiled temperament; on the contrary, he excelled in both conduct and academics from a young age. After graduating, he managed the Gu Group, and the business has been thriving.
More importantly, a person like him remains very well-behaved, and there hasn't been a hint of scandal during the years he's been dating me.
My mom courteously smiled:
"Oh dear, everyone knows that Jinzhi is a famous workaholic; perhaps something held him up."
Mrs. Gu was also pleased with this response. She raised her glass and drank it all, while still being polite on the surface:
"Even if it's for work, it shouldn't delay the engagement. It's my fault for not managing my son well; I'll drink as a penalty."
Amidst the clinking glasses, the atmosphere was warm and joyful, and everyone was genuinely happy.
Only my face carried a forced smile, somewhat lost and out of sorts for no reason at all.
I called over and over again, but still, no one answered.