On 28/2, a wedding in Huaibei city, Anhui province, became a focal point of public attention in China due to the intertwined relationships of the family members. The bride and groom were nominally "siblings" in a blended family.

Three years ago, Mr. Zhuang married Ms. Chen. At that time, he had a son from a previous marriage, while Ms. Chen also had a daughter. After registering their marriage, all four moved in together under one roof.

For three years, the family of four lived together harmoniously. Noticing that both children were single, had spent a long time together, and understood each other's personalities, Mr. Zhuang and Ms. Chen came up with the idea of matchmaking their children.

"Knowing their backgrounds and having lived together for so long, we believe no one can care for our children better than someone within the family", Mr. Zhuang stated. With the parents' support, the two children gradually developed feelings and decided to marry, creating a family "closer than ever".

Ms. Chen and her daughter with Mr. Zhuang and his son. Photo: *China News*

The story garnered particular attention when a guest named Ling, who attended the wedding, posted a video on social media with a humorous caption: "I truly don't know what the child born later will call their elders. Will they have to call them both paternal grandparents and maternal grandparents?"

The video immediately sparked discussions. Some netizens expressed confusion about the family hierarchy, calling it "a confusing circle of titles". However, most opinions voiced support and sent blessings.

Many people commented that this was a "win-win" scenario. "This relationship will actually be very stable. The bride will never have to face the worry of 'mother-in-law-daughter-in-law' conflicts, because her mother-in-law is also her biological mother", one user commented.

From a legal perspective, Chinese experts confirmed this marriage is lawful. According to the country's Civil Code, the two children are not blood relatives, and their parents are also not blood relatives. Therefore, the marriage does not violate regulations prohibiting marriage between direct blood relatives or within three generations.

Some family psychology experts also viewed the situation from a humanitarian perspective. A mother and a father who had experienced past failures found new stability. Now their children have also found happiness with someone they fully trust, which is a fulfilling ending for homes pieced together from many fragments.

Video of the wedding of two "siblings" from a blended family in Anhui, China. Video: *Douyin*

Bao Nhien (According to *China News*, *Toutiao*)