The Century Old Promise

After the graduation ceremony, the family made their way to their ancestral home, a magnificent traditional Chinese mansion that stood tall and proud. Its architecture was a testament to the family's rich heritage, with intricate details and its traditional Min dynasty style was unique like entering another timeline.

As they approached the grand mansion, they were greeted by the enchanting beauty of the garden. A shimmering pond, nestled in the heart of the garden, delicate water lilies floated on the surface of pond.

Peonies and orchids bloomed in vibrant hues, adding splashes of pink, orange, and white to the landscape. The peonies stood tall and proud, their blooms resembling fluffy clouds of cotton candy. The orchids, with their intricate shapes and vibrant colors, exuded an exotic allure.

And amidst it all, the red roses stood out the most , when she was a kid Lin Qing told Grandma Lin that she prefer roses so they called the flowering service and planted them a day later. It was one of the solid evidence of how much they love and spoil her.

Inside of the mansion was wooden, the intricate carvinv of the mahogany woodwork in the halls were showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans.

The walls displayed stunning calligraphy and other styles of paintings from different artists, among the various styles of artwork, there was a particular painting that caught Lin Qing's eye. It was a piece she had created when she was 18, and seeing it again after all these years brought forth a rush of emotions.

Inside the mansion, a beautifully carved wooden shelf showcased glimmering jade ornaments. Each piece was a symbol of the family's grandeur and prosperity, cherished heirlooms that had been passed down through generations. They served as a testament to the family's wealth and influence, a reminder of their esteemed lineage.

Despite his age, Grandfather Lin chose to reside in the ancestral home, surrounded by a dedicated team of butlers, cleaners, and maids who catered to his every need. Since the passing of Grandma Lin, he had preferred to live this way, occasionally embarking on travels, while leaving his only son in charge of the family's affairs.

The following day, the Su family arrived, and both families gathered for an opulent lunch. The dining hall was filled with an array of delectable dishes, meticulously prepared by skilled chefs. As they indulged in the exquisite flavors, the conversation gradually shifted to a more serious tone.

During the afternoon tea break, an air of anticipation filled the room. Finally, the grandfathers, Grandfather Su and Lin Qing's own grandfather, decided it was time to unveil a long-kept secret. Lin Qing, though aware of the betrothal promise due to her rebirth, skillfully masked her knowledge and get herself ready to act.

Grandfather Su took a deep breath, his eyes filled with sincerity. "Both myself and Old Lin we now here and ready to share with you a promise made between our families nearly a century ago."

He looked around the young folks looking at him with curiosity so he contuined " You should know, It was a time when traditions and family alliances held great importance."

Lin Qing put on a confused face then she looked at her own grandfather.

Grandfather Lin nodded at her solemnly while Grandfather Su continued, "Many years ago, my grandfather and your grandfather's grandfather were close friends and business partners. They both wanted to ensure the unity and prosperity of our families, so they made a solemn promise. It was an agreement to join our families through marriage, a bond that would strengthen our ties and secure our futures."

Lin Qing's brother looked at her with a tinge of sadness and then he glared towards the three young masters of Su.

Grandfather Su continued, "Only a select few elders of both families were aware of this promise. We never wanted it to overshadow the lives of the younger generations.

But a promise is a promise, it is a good merit to honour one's ancestors. Since both sides of our family's children are still single, we have decided to honor this promise."

As the tea was served, Lin Qing observed the expressions on everyone's faces.

Her father looked angry and disappointed, her mother appeared anxious, and her big brother seemed furious, glaring at the Su young masters as if they had already kidnapped his beloved little sister.

On the other side, Su Haoran maintained his stoic expression, though his eyes flickered with surprise.

Su Huan's eyebrows furrowed slightly, but he couldn't help being amused by Lin Qing's brother's glare.

However, Su Haoyu stood up in shock, unable to contain his emotions any longer. "Ridiculous! How can you expect us to accept this? An age-old promise? Are we supposed to abide by it as if we have no say in our own lives? Are we merely pigs to be sold?"

Grandfather Su's soft gaze turned stern as he glared at his tactless grandson. "You brat, how mannerless! No one is saying you have to get married. You have been provided with education and opportunities, and fulfilling this promise is what a Su man should do."

Then his stern voice changed into a soft version a little while later as he turned to look at Lin Qing

"However, we don't want to force anything upon Little Lin or ... any of you."

Lin Qing was observing the tension in the room while Grandma Su and Grandfather Su looked at each other and nodded as it was a tacit agreement between both of them the with the elegant upbringing and her lovely personality they felt that she should really be their grand-daughter in law!

Grandfather Su again spoke in a gentle tone, expressing his apologies for any inconvenience caused. "Little Lin, we have inconvenienced you. You guys can get to know each other first , there is no rush ,no matter what we'll still respect whatever choice you'll make."

Internally amused by the proposition, Lin Qing playfully mused to herself, 'It's like I am here shopping for a husband, it is almost like buy one, get two free deal.' Grandfather Su reassured her that there was no rush, emphasizing that she could take her time to get to know each of the Young Masters of Su.

With a mischievous glint in her eyes, Lin Qing looked at Young Masters of Su.