Chapter 280

"Sister-in-law, you've seen more of the world," Daniel River said with a grin, his eyes crinkling into slits.

Emily Johnson suppressed an inward sigh. She truly hadn't witnessed a matchmaking scene from this era before.

"Alright."

Since they'd come to invite her personally, it would be impolite to refuse.

After the college entrance exams ended, she still read books but no longer buried herself in study like during exam preparations. To cultivate David and Tommy's reading habits, the three often read together. When they encountered difficult questions, she patiently explained. If she didn't know the answer, she'd have them jot it down to research later.

After breakfast, Emily instructed her sons, "Play on your own—read or go outside if you want."

Though summer had tanned them, David and Tommy remained fairer than other village children.

Today she was attending as a guest, so she dressed more carefully. She wore a light blue blouse with a bow-tied collar, paired with a floral-print skirt and white soft-soled sandals. Her hair was swept into a simple bun, and she'd applied a touch of lipstick for color.

"Who's that?"

"Isn't that Emily Johnson?"

"My goodness, she cleans up so beautifully?"

"Michael spoils his wife—won't let her work the fields. Her family sends gifts often too. No wonder she's so well-kept."

Children playing outside stared curiously as she passed.

The River family home appeared shabbier than Captain John Stone's residence. Upon entering, Martha River greeted her warmly.

"Dear niece, thank you for coming today. I heard the girl's cousin married into town. Your mother-in-law will join us soon."

Elizabeth Stone stole glances at Emily's slender waist, thinking privately: How could this be the figure of a mother of two? Her skin glowed without a blemish, and her clothes were so stylish.

"Aunt, this is my first time..."

Martha patted her hand. "Don't worry, just treat it like casual conversation."

Soon, Mary Stone arrived.

"Mother."

"You came too, third daughter-in-law?"

The house was set with candies and sunflower seeds, awaiting the young woman's arrival.

Daniel had dressed smartly in a white shirt and black trousers, though his Liberation shoes somewhat ruined the effect.

"Mother, why aren't you wearing the sandals I bought you?" Emily noticed Mary's cloth shoes. In this heat, they must be stifling.