Chapter 38: Father‑in‑law, the Great One!

First time creating, and in half a month wrote a phenomenon‑level mid‑length novel?

Through the prospective son‑in‑law, Chen Shi witnessed what is called talent.

If he hadn't heard it with his own ears, he would never believe that such a thing exists in the world, no matter what anyone says.

And when he thinks again of having devoted over twenty years to studying literature, having published only a single poem in some factory newspaper…

Chen Shi's heart endured ten thousand critical blows.

"Xiao Xu is truly impressive; the moment he stepped into the literary world, he became a great writer."

Chen Shi clicked his tongue in amazement, hurriedly picked up the work he had just been writing at his desk, and, smiling, handed it to Xu Yuexin, "Could you take a look at how these poems turned out?"

"Are there any parts that need improvement?"

Is the father‑in‑law an enthusiast? Xu Yuexin had already taken the manuscript paper Chen Shi handed over and skimmed two lines.

Well, I can't say it's bad; I can only say…

There's still huge room for improvement!

If I must suggest where to revise, it would be best… to rewrite it entirely.

The only problem is that saying that might be a bit too hurtful to him…

"Dad, that new guy writes novels, you write poetry, it doesn't match at all."

Qiao Qiao understood her dad's level; to spare Xu Yuexin difficulty, she blurted out before he could answer, "If you really want to know how the poems are, I'll bring them to the department tomorrow and ask a few teachers."

"Poetry and prose are one. We have a great writer right before us; why look far when the answer is near?"

Chen Shi laughed and waved his hand, still not realizing what his daughter meant.

"Um, Uncle, your writing is… excellent."

As the two argued, Xu Yuexin put down the manuscript paper, lifted his head with difficulty, and said, "It's so refined that it appeals to few; many may find it hard to grasp its subtleties, let alone appreciate it."

"Keep it up; I believe you can become a poet of a generation."

Chen Shi instantly felt he had found a kindred spirit.

Having been creating for over twenty years, he'd only ever heard criticism of his poetry, never someone like Xu Yuexin who highly praised him.

"I told you, the last time I submitted to a magazine, they rejected it outright."

Chen Shi thumped his thigh and said, "If I submit a few more times, I should meet an editor with the discerning eye you have."

"From now on I'll seek your advice more, hoping you won't be stingy with guidance."

What Xu Yuexin could say, he could only force a smile and keep nodding.

Silence, maintaining a smile, eyes courteous.

This is an emotional‑intelligence play!

"He's busy; he may not have time to discuss your poems."

Qiao Qiao promptly rescued Xu Yuexin, "If you really want to improve, join a few poetry groups and see how others write."

"It'll definitely be more progress than you make by working in isolation."

"I know." Chen Shi, still floating from Xu Yuexin's praise, didn't even hear her, "By the way, Xiao Xu, I'll be entrusting my Qiao Qiao to you from now on."

"She's been spoiled at home; if any conflict arises, I hope you won't get angry—just tell me and her mother, and we'll educate her properly."

"What the…?"

Before I even said anything, the father‑in‑law already took the initiative to speak up? Isn't the pace a bit too fast?

Not only did Xu Yuexin not react, even Qiao Qiao was dumbfounded: "Dad is that decisive?"

There's no bureaucracy at all, straight to the final step? While Qiao Qiao was still confused, Xu Yuexin had already recovered and responded.

"Qiao Qiao is an exceptionally sensible and gentle girl; I'm content to be able to marry her."

"Rest assured, I'll devote my whole life to her, never letting her suffer any grievance."

"Also thank your family for raising such a fine young lady, allowing me to meet her."

Father‑in‑law, the great one, may I bow as your son‑in‑law! Xu Yuexin's speech was flawless, covering every aspect.

Chen Shi listened, his face lighting up like a dragon, his joy equal to the moment his poetry was praised.

"Your meeting was fate; had you not intervened in time, Qiao Qiao might have…"

Chen Shi, feeling emotional, shouted toward the kitchen with a manly vigor, "Zhou Zhifeng, start cooking now, so we can have lunch early."

Before Xu Yuexin arrived today, Chen Shi had made a three‑point agreement with Zhou Zhifeng: normally he could be a bit spineless, but with his daughter's suitor coming, he must give him face.

After instructing Zhou Zhifeng, Chen Shi continued the lively discussion with Xu Yuexin about literature.

In this issue of People's Literature, there's a novel that's also outstanding. After reading it, I felt it was on par with 'The Wreath Under High Mountain.'

The novel, titled 'The Horse Herder,' tells of protagonist Xu Lingjun's tumultuous life after being sent to a ranch, a plot moving enough to provoke deep reflection.

Chen Shi ranted on, his mind filled with 'The Horse Herder' plot, "I guess the author must be someone who's lived a lot and thinks profoundly."

"I've heard members of the Cultural Troupe discuss this novel often; I read it yesterday too."

Chen Yixue, who usually keeps silent, spoke up about 'The Horse Herder': "The plot truly twists and turns; it captivated me so much I even forgot lunch."

"I've long wondered what kind of life truly counts as freedom?"

"After reading 'The Horse Herder', I think that dedicating oneself to a beloved cause like Xu Lingjun, untainted by worldly fame and profit, is true freedom."

"Yuexin, what do you think?"

Xu Yuexin smiled without answering, instead looking at Qiao Qiao beside him, seeing her snickering.

After their gazes met, she understood what she should do.

"Actually, 'The Horse Herder' was also written by Brother Xin."

"Chunyu is also his pen name."

Qiao Qiao revealed the answer to her father and sister, "On his behalf, I thank you for your support."

Afterward, she playfully blinked, observing Chen Shi and Chen Yixue's expressions.

Only then did Chen Shi's face show astonishment, and Chen Yixue also slightly part his red lips, looking at Xu Yuexin with an incredulous gaze.

(End of chapter)