Chapter 45: Confronting Father-in-law

After everyone else had left, Shen Youfu remained behind unnoticed, knowing as Shen Zi’an’s father, he had the right to stay.

Li Shi patted Shen Zi’an on the shoulder and left, knowing there was still the matter of handling the captured tiger at home, a task that was sure to cause chaos.

Facing Shen Zi’an’s father, whom she had encountered but never formally greeted, Su Zhi felt a deep sense of aversion. This feeling surpassed her disdain for Shen Zhang Shi and Sun Shi. While those women had no blood ties to Shen Zi’an, this man was his biological father, yet he treated Shen Zi’an with such severity. It reminded Su Zhi of the saying “where there’s a stepmother, there’s a stepfather,” particularly since he had been neglectful of his lawful wife after marrying Shen Zhang Shi, making him a despicable man in her eyes.

“Fath-… Father, is there something you need? Our home is humble, and there’s no place for you to sit,” Su Zhi addressed Shen Youfu with a tone that concealed her inner reservations.

Su Zhi, while internally disdainful of the old man, maintained a composed facade. In today’s society, filial piety was crucial, and while she refused to be oppressed by it, she also understood the importance of observing customary courtesies. By politely addressing him as “Father” and engaging in small talk, she managed to navigate the situation, leaving no room for criticism or exploitation, ultimately achieving a subtle victory.

Shen Youfu nodded, observing Su Zhi. He noted her remarkable transformation, from appearing intimidating a few days prior to her current composed demeanor. Her features were strikingly more elegant than those of the other daughters-in-law.

Glancing around the courtyard, though modest, tidily arranged, he acknowledged Su Zhi’s capable handiwork. However, recalling her earlier sharp retorts to Sun Shi, his expression darkened. Allowing Sun Shi to lose face reflected poorly on the Shen family.

“You keep mentioning our modest household. Do you blame me for the unequal division of assets during the family separation? It was agreed upon by Shen Zi’an. We spent all our savings on your treatment. Do not be ungrateful!” Shen Youfu’s words lacked courtesy, hinting at an underlying dissatisfaction.

Su Zhi inwardly noted his impoliteness. She had clarified with Shen Zi’an that her medical expenses were minimal, and after a few consultations, Sun Shi had raised objections. Eventually, a compromise was reached where Shen Zi’an kept most of his earnings, only contributing a small portion, which he used to cover her medical expenses without involving the family’s funds.

Su Zhi’s expenditures from the Shen family funds were indeed accounted for. Shen Zi’an had dutifully handed over his earnings to the family, more than sufficient to cover her medical expenses. During the division of assets, they received no share, leaving Shen Zhang Shi likely with remaining funds.

“Father, I cannot comment on the fairness of the division as I wasn’t present. However, Shen Zi’an is deeply filial; he agreed, and I followed suit without complaint. We are young and can build our fortune together. Just after the separation, we’ve already had good luck. With this money, we can build a fine home. I am content now; my health has improved, and Shen Zi’an’s hunting skills can support our family. I’ve heard he is a diligent worker, earning as much as two person,” Su Zhi eloquently expressed, observing Shen Youfu’s darkening expression with a sense of satisfaction, determined not to be taken advantage of.

Initially feeling regret for causing them trouble during the division, Su Zhi’s concerns eased upon realizing the surplus from Shen Zi’an’s earnings. She felt it was a fair contribution towards their household and hoped they would use it wisely.

Shen Zi’an, standing nearby, smiled as he listened, appreciating how spirited and articulate his wife had become. Her words were like a refreshing breeze, now shining like sunlight. He admired her even more.

“Zi’an, do you think I’m right?” Su Zhi inquired, seeking his opinion on her response.

Su Zhi glanced at Shen Zi’an, pleased to see him smiling, indicating he wasn’t bothered by her banter with his father, which reassured her.

Shen Zi’an affirmed, “Wife, you are right. Father, Su Zhi is correct. You and Mother should take care of yourselves; consider it our gesture of goodwill.”

Shen Youfu’s face could have dripped water given its darkness. He was seething but unable to articulate his anger. Su Zhi’s words, while not explicitly accusing him of unfairness during the asset division, subtly hinted at it. He had hoped her illness would make her feel indebted to the Shen family, but her remarks had shifted the dynamics, portraying Shen Zi’an as a filial son who had contributed financially. This unexpected turn left Shen Youfu without a trump card to use against the couple in the future.

“Living with the Buddha made you quiet, but you’ve returned with a sharp tongue! Your mouth has caused all this trouble, leading to your illness. Behave yourself and speak less; women needn’t be too eloquent,” Shen Youfu scolded, displeased with Su Zhi’s outspokenness.

Shen Zi’an felt his father was unfairly reprimanding his wife. Although her words upset his father, he recognized her intentions to support him and refused to let her be mistreated.

“Dad, my wife speaks the truth. Wise words can be spoken by anyone. It’s those like Third Sister-in-law who require correction. Since you and her share the same courtyard,  make sure she doesn’t create unnecessary conflicts,” Shen Zi’an defended his wife’s integrity.

“Ungrateful child! Marrying a wife, and now you dare to challenge your father. Just because you killed a tiger doesn’t mean you can defy me. I am still your father!” Shen Youfu erupted in anger.

Shen Youfu, amidst his tirade, unsure whether to escalate the situation, was halted by the arrival of Shen Zifu.

“Dad, on such a joyous occasion, why quarrel with Fourth Brother? Let’s not strain ourselves,” Shen Zifu intervened, concerned about his father’s well-being.

Summoned by his son, Shen Zifu had first checked on the tiger before hurrying to Shen Zi’an’s home. Upon entering and witnessing his father scolding his younger brother, he sighed inwardly. He knew Fourth Brother had faced hardships from a young age, and now, having recently married, it was disheartening to see his father still finding fault with him.

Shen Youfu, not wanting to escalate the conflict, had been caught up in the moment. However, accustomed to speaking his mind, he relented upon Shen Zifu’s intervention.

Congratulating Shen Zi’an, Shen Zifu suggested he visit Li Shi’s home, as Li Shi had requested his presence.

With everyone gone, Su Zhi closed the door, feeling a sense of accomplishment in handling her father-in-law and ensuring he understood they wouldn’t be taken advantage of easily.

The tiger had been dealt with, and Li Shi distributed some tiger meat to the villagers who had gathered, bringing joy and excitement to all. Li Shi had arranged for the tiger meat to be sent to a local inn even before the tiger was butchered. The innkeeper and the owner arrived promptly, purchasing all the meat, including the skin, bones, and other valuable parts, at a high price.

By nightfall, everything was finally sorted out. Shen Zi’an returned home with the earnings, and the young couple sat together under the dim oil lamp, smiling at the silver and copper coins before them.