The group gathered around the coffee table and the conversation got more animated. Su Zhendong, who had been disinterested at first, became quite chatty.
He excitedly shared stories from his days working hard in Guang Province, sometimes getting so fired up that he would slap his own thigh and show off his scars and various injuries.
Older men often enjoy telling younger generations about their struggles and achievements.
Su Zhendong not only talked about how he built his family and career but also shared some personal anecdotes from his two years of unusual experiences.
These were usually things he wouldn't discuss with outsiders, but he was clearly acknowledging Shen Lang's performance by doing so.
"You see how your dad is now?"
In the kitchen, Zhang Chunling and Su Lexuan were preparing dinner. Zhang Chunling remarked, "You wouldn't believe how grumpy he was this morning before you all arrived."
Su Lexuan still remembered Su Zhendong's harsh words about Shen Lang from last night and huffed, "Hmph, who cares about him?"
"Alright, no lingering grudges between father and daughter," Zhang Chunling advised. "Find a chance to have a good chat with your dad. Don't forget your roots after you get married."
"Mom, what are you talking about? I just started college," Su Lexuan said, blushing and pouting. "And Shen Lang has to propose to me before I'll even think about marrying him."
Like most girls, Su Lexuan dreamed of a grand, romantic wedding. Even though Shen Lang hadn't confessed his feelings and had just taken her out for movies and shopping, and almost stole her first kiss, she was willing to overlook that. But for marriage, she insisted that Shen Lang must propose with a ring before she would agree.
"Seriously? It's such an old-fashioned thing to do," Zhang Chunling said dismissively. "Your dad and I don't even know what a marriage certificate looks like, and we still have you and are living well."
"Ah, you can't compare those times with now," Su Lexuan countered. "I definitely want Shen Lang to propose. I won't marry him until then!"
"Suit yourself, but I really like this kid," Zhang Chunling said with a smile. "Shen Lang is decent-looking, makes money, and is very articulate. Even your dad, who's a bit of an old-timer, is being charmed like a child."
"Mom knows your temper—spoiled, unreasonable, and sometimes stubborn," Zhang Chunling continued. "But if you and Shen Lang end up fighting, you have to communicate well. I'd really like him to be my son-in-law."
"Well, that's still far off," Su Lexuan said shyly, glancing at Shen Lang and her dad in the living room.
The two were chatting animatedly about martial arts novels like old friends.
"Hopefully," Su Lexuan thought, a sweet smile forming on her face.
...
"Dinner's ready, you two heroes!" Zhang Chunling called out cheerfully as she set the table.
Shen Lang and Su Zhendong walked to the table, chatting and laughing. To Zhang Chunling and Su Lexuan's surprise, Su Zhendong had his arm around Shen Lang's shoulder.
They seemed more like close buddies than a father-in-law and son-in-law.
"You wait, I'll show you some of my prized wine. I promise it'll knock your socks off!" Su Zhendong said, patting Shen Lang on the back and heading to the storage room to fetch the wine.
"What kind of magic did you work on my dad?" Su Lexuan asked eagerly once Su Zhendong left. "Why is he acting like a completely different person?"
"Oh, it's just chatting with your uncle," Shen Lang replied with a smile. If the system couldn't handle the father-in-law, it might as well start over.
"Little Shen, check out this wine. It's from 2000, a local specialty you can't even find on the market anymore," Su Zhendong said excitedly, frowning slightly as he added, "Go on, sit with your mom. I'll drink with Little Shen."
Su Lexuan: "?"
...
The dinner turned into a drinking session between Su Zhendong and Shen Lang.
Su Lexuan and Zhang Chunling watched with a mix of exasperation and amusement.
Su Zhendong was a heavy drinker. He wanted to enjoy a good drink with Shen Lang but also hoped to get him a bit tipsy to hear some honest thoughts.
Shen Lang, on the other hand, thought he'd be drinking with his father-in-law until they were both drunk. But after drinking the body-strengthening liquid, Shen Lang found his tolerance surprisingly high.
He used to get drunk after two glasses, but after downing seven or eight, he didn't feel even a hint of tipsiness.
Meanwhile, Su Zhendong was red-faced and slumped over, clinging to Shen Lang and babbling.
"Little Shen, you don't know, but she's my only daughter."
"As a dad, I'm not against her dating, I'm just worried she'll meet bad men."
"Have you been drinking at all? Why is your glass always empty? Don't try to fool your uncle!"
"Come on, finish this glass, and I'll take you to karaoke!"
"Little Shen, calling me 'uncle' is too formal. Try calling me 'Dad' and see what happens."
"Oh! For that 'Dad,' Springling, get my wallet!"
After several hours of ruckus, Su Zhendong was finally drunk and was carried to the bedroom by Zhang Chunling.
Shen Lang loosened his shirt collar and sighed, "Your dad can really hold his liquor."
"Huh? I feel like you're the one who drinks the most," Su Lexuan said with a wry smile. "You wouldn't believe it, but my dad's never drunk like this before. You're really impressive."
"Ha, I'm young, I can handle it," Shen Lang said, glancing at the time—it was already past eight.
Zhang Chunling came out of the bedroom and Shen Lang said, "Auntie, thank you for the hospitality. It's getting late, so I'll head home and visit again some other time."
"Wait, Little Shen, you've drunk so much. How will you drive?" Zhang Chunling said, grabbing him. "We have an extra room. Let me fix it up for you. You should stay here tonight."
"That might not be appropriate; this is my first time visiting," Shen Lang said, a bit embarrassed.
"What's inappropriate about it?" Zhang Chunling said with a casual smile. "Just listen. I'll get you a set of uncle's pajamas. Go take a shower and stay here tonight."
"Well, if that's the case, I'll stay," Shen Lang said with a shy smile, turning to look at the blushing Su Lexuan with anticipation.