Bai Yichen’s response was a clear acceptance of the challenge. Instantly, the onlookers’ curiosity and excitement flared up, their desire for gossip ignited.

Everyone in the village had heard bits and pieces about An xin’s past with Zhang Fan. The sudden switch to Bai Yichen as her groom had already been a hot topic. And now, on her wedding day, Zhang Fan’s appearance to stir up trouble was both expected and juicy.

The clash between the “new love” and the “old love” was nothing short of thrilling.

Luckily, only a few people were close enough to see what was happening at the bridal chamber door. The rest stood at a distance, watching the drama unfold. Even Chen Hongyan and the three children sat far away, unaware of the commotion.

An xin remained calm, quietly seated the entire time. She had expected something like this the moment An Ling’er brought Zhang Fan to the bridal chamber. It was clearly premeditated. She knew there was no stopping it.

Zhang Fan, being the petty and vindictive man he was, wouldn’t let her marry without causing trouble. He had to create a scene to soothe his bruised ego.

Thankfully, Bai Yichen exuded calmness throughout the ordeal, which reassured An xin. Though their relationship lacked deep feelings for now, they were tied together in this situation. If Bai Yichen were humiliated, it would reflect on her as well.

For now, all An xin could do was bide her time, ready to step in and help him if needed.

Zhang Fan noticed that Bai Yichen had taken the bait. A sinister smirk crept across his face as he reached into his coat and pulled out a bottle of strong white liquor. He placed it on the table with a loud thud.

“Today is your big day. I brought this bottle to celebrate. On such a joyous occasion, the bride and groom should drink a toast together in front of us all to make it even more festive!”

Hearing this, An Ling’er quickly chimed in, her voice full of fake sweetness.

“Yes! Sister and Brother-in-law, you’re so in love. What better way to show your devotion than drinking a toast at your wedding?”

As soon as the two spoke, the few people nearby joined in, egging the couple on.

“That’s right! It’s such a happy day. Let us witness your toast!”

Laughter rang out, laced with mischief.

An xin and Bai Yichen both glanced at the bottle of white liquor. They immediately recognized it as a high-proof liquor, the kind only seasoned drinkers could handle. It was infamous for its potency and was not for the faint-hearted.

An xin, who was from modern times, felt her stomach churn at the mere sight of the bottle.

Zhang Fan and An Ling’er exchanged a satisfied glance, sensing victory. Zhang Fan smirked and mocked them further.

“What’s the matter? Can’t even manage a toast on your wedding day? It seems your love isn’t as deep as we thought.”

An Ling’er giggled, her face feigning innocence as she turned to Zhang Fan.

“Don’t say that! My sister and Brother-in-law’s love is unshakable. They’ve already broken so many taboos before marriage. A simple toast is nothing for them!”

Nearby onlookers chimed in, adding fuel to the fire.

“That’s right! You’ve done more intimate things already. Why not drink a toast in front of us?”

Dongmei face darkened with anger. She was about to retort when An xin suddenly stood up. But before she could speak, Bai Yichen’s steady, deep voice echoed through the room.

“It’s just a toast. On such a joyous day, let’s not disappoint our guests. Bring the cups.”

Bai Yichen understood Zhang Fan’s petty intentions perfectly. But he was not one to back down from a challenge, especially on his wedding day.

An xin’s gaze met his. Her encouraging eyes gave him a strange sense of calm.

Zhang Fan’s smug expression deepened as he turned to An Ling’er.

“Go get the cups. Don’t delay the auspicious moment, or you’ll ruin their happiness.”

Though his tone feigned concern, every word was dripping with malice. It was clear to everyone that Zhang Fan had no respect for this marriage.

An Ling’er quickly complied, pulling out two large enamel mugs and placing them on the table.

An xin didn’t drink, and Zhang Fan knew it. He intended to exploit her weakness. If they could get her drunk enough to make a fool of herself—or even end up in the hospital—it would be the ultimate revenge.

The onlookers’ eyes widened in disbelief. These mugs weren’t for drinking; they were practically buckets!

Without hesitation, Zhang Fan uncapped the liquor and poured it evenly into the two mugs. The strong scent of alcohol filled the air, making everyone’s stomach churn.

The crowd, initially entertained, began to feel uneasy. Drinking an entire mug of such potent alcohol wasn’t just reckless—it was dangerous.

It was now blatantly clear that Zhang Fan and An Ling’er weren’t here to celebrate. They were here to sabotage the newlyweds.

An xin, unsurprised by Zhang Fan’s malice, cast a cold glance at the mugs. She raised her eyes to meet Bai Yichen’s concerned gaze and responded with a reassuring smile.

Taking a deep breath, she walked to the table, her smile sharp and unyielding as she addressed Zhang Fan and An Ling’er.

“I didn’t expect my dear cousin and her boyfriend to be so generous with their blessings. Thank you for the thought. Rest assured, when it’s your turn to marry, I’ll return the favor with an even grander gift.”

Her words, laced with hidden threats, made Zhang Fan and An Ling’er’s faces stiffen.

Play with fire, and you’ll get burned.

An xin thought to herself. She was already married now, and it wouldn’t be long before these two tied the knot. When the time came, she would make sure they experienced the same treatment—if not worse.

A smile spread across An xin’s face as she gracefully picked up the two mugs. She handed one to Bai Yichen while holding the other herself.