Author: plum

Upon returning, it was the end of the year, and Chinese New Year was approaching.

The month-long journey was indeed beautiful, but the fatigue from traveling took a toll. Ye An spent several days in bed to recover her energy and adjust her state.

However, Xie Shuo was not as free as her. After resting for two days only, he immersed himself in the pile of accumulated work.

Worried about him getting too tired and not wanting to watch over him constantly, Ye An could only entrust Zhong Fu with reminding him to take breaks.

On Chinese New Year’s Eve, the two went over to Grandfather Xie’s place for a family reunion dinner.

At the dinner table, Ye An saw the little girl, Sui Sui, who had come to play with her when she got married to Xie Shuo.

The little girl had grown two years older, and her height had increased significantly. She was dressed in a pink princess dress, and her big eyes were dark and bright.

During dinner, the little girl would occasionally look up at Ye An. After dinner, when Xie Shuo was called away by Xie Baiyan, and Ye An went to rest on the side, the little girl followed her.

With nothing to do, Ye An started initiating the voices of characters from cartoons, just like she did last time. She would switch between different characters, and the little girl blinked her eyes, thoroughly entertained.

Soon, other children from relatives’ families were also attracted and gathered around.

This scene happened to be seen by Grandfather Xie and one of Xie Shuo’s aunts. The aunt teased, “An An, if you like kids so much, when are you planning to have one?”

“………”

A new round of pressure to have children began again.

Ye An responded perfunctorily, and in the corner of her eye, she saw Xie Shuo coming over. Quickly getting up, she slipped to his side and hooked her arm through his.

With Xie Shuo as her shield, the noise beside her ears quieted down. That night, the couple didn’t stay overnight at the ancestral residence and drove back to their own home.

The TV was playing the Spring Festival Gala, and the two cuddled on the sofa, playing games and snatching red envelopes on their phones. Occasionally, they whispered and laughed. 

Thinking about what happened earlier, Ye An suddenly asked Xie Shuo, “Do you want kids?”

The pressure to have kids had never stopped, but Xie Shuo hadn’t shown a clear stance on it.

Xie Shuo didn’t answer but asked back, “Do you want to?”

Ye An shook her head. “Not really.”

She hugged his arm, locking her hand with his. “With how busy you are, where would you find the time to take care of a child?”

Although with the conditions of the Xie family, there would be no shortage of people to care for the child, it’s always better for parents to be present as they grow up.

Xie Shuo rubbed her delicate fingers, smiling. “Let’s wait a bit longer then.”

After discussing the topic of children, they chatted about other things.

At midnight, the alarm rang on time.

At the same time, outside the window, faint sounds of fireworks could be heard in the night sky.

Ye An handed her neatly wrapped red envelope to Xie Shuo with a smile. 

“Happy New Year, may you have peace all year round.”

Xie Shuo smiled.

“May you have peace every year too.”

In the years to come, we will always be together.

……

After the Spring Festival, life gradually returned to normal. Although Xie Shuo remained busy, it was noticeably better than before, and he could now take time off even during holidays.

As for Ye An’s studio, its reputation was growing, attracting many new talents, and the business expanded into various aspects of the entertainment industry.

As for Ye An, she would take on a few projects every month, occasionally working on a couple of theme songs and dedicating some time to mentor the newcomers under her wing. It kept her busy enough.

In the early autumn of that year, the Xie Shuo family celebrated another joyous occasion as Xie Yuran and Xin Li, the quarrelsome but loving couple, finally held their wedding.

Xin Li designed her wedding gown herself, but there was a hiccup along the way, so it took almost half a year to get the final product.

Looking at the bride on stage with her trailing wedding gown, Ye An couldn’t help but recall her wedding.

She turned around, and when others weren’t looking, she sneakily gave Xie Shuo a kiss.

Xie Shuo held her hand and pulled her into his embrace before a smile appeared on his face,

In the second of Xie Yuran and Xin Li’s marriage, perhaps realizing that pressuring Xie Shuo was futile, Grandfather Xie shifted his hopes of holding great-grandchildren to them, initiating a new round of persuasion.

Being urged to have children just over a month after getting married — they were in for a tough time.

Listening to the relentless urging, Ye An exchanged a glance with Xie Shuo, expressing a sense of sympathy.

Due to the pressure to have children, Xin Li and Ye An’s new in-law relationship leaped forward, and Xin Li occasionally sought her out for advice.

……

When the first snowfall of the year arrived, Ye An dragged Xie Shuo to the garden and built two snowmen.

“Mine is cuter than yours.”

After making the snowmen, she smiled brightly.

Xie Shuo looked at the chubby snowmen on the ground and held her freezing red hands, trying to warm them up. 

Ye An deliberately slipped her hands inside his coat, her face rosy but full of smiles. “Feeling cold?”

“Let’s go back.”

Xie Shuo embraced her and walked toward the house.

Fine snow covered the greenery, bending their branches and leaves. When the wind blew, it scattered some snowflakes. The ground lamps cast a soft glow, creating a warm atmosphere.

After the two showered, the snow that had stopped for a few hours started snowing again. Leaning against the bedhead, Ye An looked at the snow outside before turning to Xie Shuo and asking, “After the new year, you’ll be turning 30, right?”

Xie Shuo had just gotten into bed, and upon hearing her question, looked at her, not understanding why she suddenly brought this up. 

Was she implying I’m getting old?

Ye An leaned in and whispered into his ear, “Shall we have a baby?”

Lately, Xie Baiyan had been openly hinting for them to have a child, considering Xie Shuo’s age. After considering it seriously, Ye An thought it might be the right time.

Xie Shuo remained silent, just looking at her. Ye An embraced his neck and playfully tapped his lips with her index finger. “Why so quiet? Don’t want to?”

The next moment, her waist was embraced, and Xie Shuo flipped over, pressing her beneath him.

Ye An placed her hand on his chest and cautioned him, “You mustn’t drink for a while, and don’t stay up late anymore …”

Before she could finish her sentence, her lips were sealed, and amidst the blending of breaths, she heard a muffled, “En.”

……

Ye An and Xie Shuo’s first child arrived in the summer of the following year.

That day, Ye An was in the recording studio dubbing for a movie. When she reached an emotional scene, she suddenly retched.

The other staff in the recording studio were all stunned: Was there such a part in the script?

Two seconds later, someone realized what happened and hurriedly approached, asking, “Ye laoshi, are you okay?”

At first, Ye An thought she might have caught a cold due to a lack of sleep in the past few days. She waved her hand and adjusted her condition before signaling everyone to continue.

After enduring the discomfort and finishing the recording, she rushed to the restroom, retching for a long time. It finally dawned on her that something was amiss. A certain thought flashed through her mind, and in a hurry, she left the studio, instructing the chauffeur to take her home.

It had been more than half a year since she and Xie Shuo started preparing for pregnancy. In the first two months, Ye An was occasionally anxious, but as time passed without any signs, and considering the false alarm with her upset stomach, she gradually became more relaxed about the matter.

Although her intuition was strong this time, she was afraid it might be another false alarm. Upon returning home, she first used a pregnancy test kit.

Looking at the result displayed on the pregnancy test, she couldn’t help but smile. She took out her phone, intending to call Xie Shuo, but then remembered he had an important meeting today. Instead, she asked the chauffeur to take her to the hospital.

At the hospital, estimating that his meeting should be over by now, she called Xie Shuo.

When Xie Shuo got the news, he rushed to the hospital. Ye An was sitting in the waiting area, waiting for the results.  

Seeing her, he walked quickly toward her. The usually composed and calm man unexpectedly showed a hint of nervousness. 

Looking up, Ye An grabbed his hand and smiled. “I’m waiting for the results; it should be soon.”

Xie Shuo sat down beside her, holding her hand with a slightly firmer grip.

Seeing him like this, Ye An playfully scratched his palm and teased, “Why are you even more nervous than me?”

Just as she said that the doctor came out with the examination results, confirming that she was indeed six weeks pregnant and in good health.

The tension on Xie Shuo’s face finally faded, replaced by a smile.

Ye An took his hand, placing it on her stomach, and said with a smile, “Congrats, you’re going to be a dad.”

Xie Shuo looked down, his large palm caressing her lower stomach through the fabric, and at that moment, it felt as if he could truly sense the heartbeat of the new life within.

After the doctor provided what to take note of for pregnancy and the schedule for prenatal check-ups, the two left the hospital.

On the way home, Ye An kept touching her abdomen, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Xie Shuo held her hand, and a rare smile lingered on his usually reserved face.

However, Ye An excitement didn’t last long. Once they arrived home, she was hit by another wave of nausea.

Xie Shuo poured a glass of water, helping her drink it before placing the cup down on the coffee table.

“Feeling better?”

Leaning against him in his arms, Ye An caressed her stomach helplessly. “There are still ten months to go… so long.”

Xie Shuo held her delicate hand, gently massaging it, saying reassuringly, “Not ten months. Starting now, it’s less than nine months.”

Ye An: “…….”

Even at this time, your logic remained.

Clearly, this reassurance didn’t have much effect; nine months still seemed very long.

Ye An could only lower her head and speak to her belly, attempting to communicate with the little one inside: “Be a good baby; don’t be naughty, okay?”

Watching her, Xie Shuo smiled lovingly.

Xie Baiyan had been staying at the ancestral residence lately. Soon, he received the news and hurried over with Grandfather Xie. Xie Yuran and Xin Li also came over.

In an instant, the entire house became lively.

Grandfather Xie smiled and inquired about the situation before advising Xie Shuo to come home early and spend more time with Ye An.

Sitting next to Ye An, Xin Li curiously touched her belly after obtaining permission.

“Do you feel anything?”

Ye An shook her head. At this stage, other than discomfort, there were no other sensations.

After Grandfather Xie finished instructing Xie Shuo, he noticed Xin Li’s action and turned to Xie Yuran, saying, “Xiao Ran, you should also hurry up.”

Innocently caught in the crossfire, Xie Yuran: “…….”

That night, lying in bed, Ye An belatedly felt a hint of surrealness.

Xie Shuo lifted the blanket and got into bed. Seeing her staring blankly, he reached out, placing his hand on her lower abdomen, and asked gently, “Still uncomfortable?”

Ye An shook her head and asked him, “Do you want a son or a daughter?”

Xie Shuo smiled. “Either is fine.”

Ye An snuggled into his arms and whispered, “Given how it’s causing a ruckus now, I feel like it’s a son.” 

Xie Shuo held her and remembered something, saying, “Don’t go to the studio for now.”

Ye An kissed his chin and said coquettishly, “Then, don’t attend social gatherings until so late; come home early.”

Xie Shuo: “En.”

Being pregnant, Ye An didn’t dare to be careless. After finishing her current projects, she had Xiang Quan handle the remaining projects and focused on her pregnancy at home.

In addition to the auntie taking care of chores at home, Xie Shuo also hired a professional doula to take care of her, ensuring that her meals were nutritionally balanced.

Ye An felt like she had become someone incapable of managing her own life, relying on others for everything.

As for Xie Shuo, he changed his previous habits. He made a point to return home early every day to accompany her. Occasionally, if there were unavoidable social engagements, he would abstain from alcohol.

In the initial months, due to pregnancy-related symptoms, Ye An’s emotions were somewhat unstable. Her mother, Mrs. Xia Jin, occasionally conveyed concerns about “men being most likely to cheat during pregnancy,” making her more anxious. 

Fortunately, Xie Shuo always accommodated her, avoiding anything that might upset her. He didn’t engage in any troublesome matters or give rise to any rumors of impropriety. Gradually, Ye An found peace of mind.

In fact, during Ye An’s pregnancy, some women did try to get close to Xie Shuo, but as soon as any signs emerged, he promptly extinguished them without any mercy.

Four to five months later, Ye An finally returned to normal, and her face regained its smile.

Her belly had also grown, requiring her to be cautious and supportive of her waist when walking.

On a winter day, with the warm sunshine scattered around, she finished her walk in the garden and rested alone on a chaise on the balcony, closing her eyes. A half-read book was placed by her side.

Returning home earlier than usual, Xie Shuo opened the door and entered their bedroom. At a glance, he saw her figure lying peacefully in front of the sunset.

The soft light cast onto her face, creating a gentle and radiant glow.

Xie Shuo tread softly, walking over to her side, his eyes filled with tenderness.

However, Ye An suddenly woke up and saw him, smiling with a twinkle in her eyes. “You’re back?”

Xie Shuo sat down beside her, gently pulling up the blanket covering her and holding her hand. “Why didn’t you go inside and sleep?”

“I got tired from reading and accidentally dozed off.”

Ye An handed him the book beside her. Since the early stages of pregnancy, she has been studying various prenatal education methods, making reading almost a daily routine.

“Before, I used to be the one reading. Now, you can read to me and the baby.”

She looked at Xie Shuo, expecting him to ignore her, but who knew that he would take the book and begin to read.

His voice was magnetic and had an inexplicable sense of charm.

Listening to his voice, Ye An’s gaze unconsciously landed on his face. The man’s features seemed unusually gentle, quite different from the cold demeanor he had on the night they first met.

In the blink of an eye, so much time had passed.

Xie Shuo looked up, and seeing her lost in thought looking at him, he asked gently, “What’s the matter?”

Ye An cradled his face, smiling. “Nothing much, just wanted to look at you more.”

Xie Shuo also smiled, his eyes reflecting her figure.

“Oh right, the baby moved today. Do you want to listen and talk to him?” Ye An suddenly said.

She put down her hands and leaned back, gesturing for Xie Shuo to lower himself. He bent down, pressing his ear against her belly. After a while, he heard a faint sound.

The lingering sunlight blurred the scene.

……

The next year, when the begonias bloomed, Ye An finally delivered the baby. Contrary to her initial guess, it was a girl.

The delivery process wasn’t very smooth. Xie Shuo waited outside the delivery room for several hours. His eyes deepened, and his complexion grew increasingly somber.

Finally, when the delivery room door opened, and the words, “Congratulations, mother and daughter are safe,” were heard, everyone outside breathed a sigh of relief.

Xie Shuo walked directly in, quickly reaching the bedside. Ye An lay there, strands of damp hair clinging to her forehead, her complexion pale, looking extremely weak.

Holding her hand, Xie Shuo kissed her forehead and said softly, “An An.”

Ye An turned her head and saw his frown. She smiled and said slightly hoarsely, “I’m fine. How’s our baby?”

“Here she is.”

Xie Baiyan took the pink and tender baby from the nurse and handed her to Xie Shuo.

Xie Shuo, not accustomed to holding such a small child, cradled her carefully and placed the baby by Ye An’s side.

The newborn’s face was wrinkled, and Ye An gently touched her cheek with her finger, smiling. “Baby, I’m your mommy.”

She then looked up at Xie Shuo and added, “This is daddy.”

The baby squinted her eyes, seeming to have fallen asleep.

The two of them exchanged a knowing smile.

After confirming that Ye An was in good health, Xie Shuo took her and the baby back home.

On the first night back home, the baby cried almost the entire night. Ye An had just given birth and was too weak to take care of the baby, but she wasn’t entirely at ease leaving it just to the nanny and the housekeeper, so the heavy task fell on Xie Shuo, the newly appointed dad.

After a sleepless night, Xie Shuo was at his wit’s end. Surprisingly, soothing a baby proved to be more exhausting than the sleepless nights he spent competing with business rivals when he first took over the company.

In the morning, Ye An woke up and saw him coming out of the nursery, glum—his shirt all wrinkled. She felt a mix of pity and amusement.

Sitting up in bed, she reached out and hugged him, suppressing a laugh. “You’ve worked hard. Here’s a hug.”

Xie Shuo, smelling the faint fragrance on her, softened a bit and stroked her hair. “Get up and have some breakfast. I’ll go take a shower.”

“I’ll get your clothes for you.”

Ye An released him and lifted the blanket, getting ready to get out of bed. 

Xie Shuo held her hand. “No need.”

After having breakfast, Ye An went to the nursery to check up on their baby.

After a night of fussing, the baby had fallen asleep. Ye An sat beside the crib, watching the rosy face of the newborn, and her heart softened, subconsciously smiling.

Xie Shuo came to see the two of them before peacefully returning to their room to get some sleep.

……

Regarding the baby’s name, during pregnancy, Ye An pulled Xie Shuo to consider many names but never settled on one. Feeling that there might be a better choice, they kept postponing the decision.

Torn between choices, Ye An sent a message to Shi Shuangshuang, asking for her opinion. She wrote novels and scripts, so she should have a knack for choosing names.

Shi Shuangshuang: “Well, you may not know, but many authors struggle with naming too.”

Shi Shuangshuang: “Actually, the surname Xie is quite good for naming. For example…”

Ye An: “Xie Daoyun?”

Shi Shuangshuang: “Forgive me, the first name that flashed in my mind was…”

Shi Shuangshuang: “Xie Guangkun*.”

Xie Guangkun – together could be interpreted as something like “Grateful for the wide and nurturing”

Ye An: “………”

Sure enough, Shi Shuangshuang received a message of being blocked by Ye An.

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Epilogue: Ye An & Xie Shuo

As the season changed to summer, the weather became increasingly hot. Under the scorching sun, the chorus of cicadas echoed incessantly, and even the leaves of the plants beside the road wilted.

Ye An, having just woken up from an afternoon nap, nestled on the sofa, reluctant to move. The AC was set low, and she covered herself with a thin blanket, revealing her calves.

It had been over a month since her wedding ceremony with Xie Shuo, and he had returned to his busy schedule, perhaps even busier than before.

Ye An, on the other hand, was so free. She had just finished dubbing a drama last week and hadn’t taken on any new projects lately. The studio was managed by Xiang Quan, and she had also hired an assistant, so there was not much for her to handle.

It was super sunny outside, so she decided to stay at home and rest.

Ye An crossed her legs and lay on the sofa, playing on her phone for a while before getting up to fetch an English pronunciation practice book from the study.

The upgraded Little Penguin, Yin Yin, stood in the corner by the wall, reminding her to take breaks periodically. 

The summer days were long, and even by 5:00 p.m., the sunlight was still somewhat dazzling, with the heat almost penetrating through the glass windows.

Ye An checked the time, and as usual, sent a message to Xie Shuo, asking if he had any social gatherings for the night.

Xie Shuo quickly replied with an affirmative answer.

Ye An reminded him to “drink less” and “take care of your eyes” before putting down her phone and getting up to stretch.

Just as she stood up, she remembered something and picked up her phone again, adding, “Come home early.”

Sitting in his chair at the office, Xie Shuo shifted his gaze away from the documents on the desk, and a loving smile appeared on his face as he looked at his phone.

……

After dinner, Ye An took a short stroll in the garden before returning to her bedroom to chat and play games with Shi Shuangshuang and the rest.

Shi Shuangshuang messaged her: “You’ve been so free lately. You’re not gonna go on a honeymoon with CEO Xie?”

Thinking of the honeymoon at Qianyue Mountain, she replied: “We already went on one.”

After the wedding ceremony, she did consider planning a proper honeymoon, but unfortunately, Xie Shuo was too busy, and since he didn’t bring it up, she suppressed the idea.

Well, who asked her to marry a workaholic?

……

Around 8:00 p.m., as night fell and the starry sky glittered above, the bedroom door was pushed open. A tall figure walked in, and Ye An was deeply engrossed in her game, completely oblivious to the approaching footsteps.

Xie Shuo walked to her side, bent down, and embraced her from behind, resting his chin in the crook of her shoulder.

His warm breath puffed on her neck, and Ye An finally sensed his presence. It just so happened that the game ended, so she turned around and smiled. “You’re back?”

Xie Shuo embraced her waist, uttering a soft, “En.”

Ye An gently hooked his chin with her fair index finger and said, “You came back relatively early today. Keep it up in the future.”

Xie Shuo glanced at her phone. “Stayed at home all day?”

Ye An nodded, “It’s too hot; I don’t wanna go out.”

While speaking, she grabbed his tie and pulled him closer. “Did you drink?”

Xie Shuo didn’t answer but followed her movement, leaning down to kiss her on the lips.

No scent of alcohol.

Ye An was pleased. On the other end of her phone, Shu Shuangshuang excitedly shouted, “An An, where are you? Hurry up, it’s about to start!”

Ye An picked up her phone again, and just when she was about to speak, her waist was suddenly pinched by Xie Shuo.

She patted his hand, handing him the phone. “Play a round for me?”

Taking it, Xie Shuo started playing on her behalf.

Ye An leaned on his shoulder, watching his moves and occasionally giving him some pointers.

After the round ended, Shi Shuangshuang shouted on the other end, “Did you get some help or what? This isn’t your skill level!”

Ye An was delighted, kissing him on the corner of his lips as a reward. Xie Shuo immediately closed the phone and held the back of her head, deepening the kiss.

……

When they parted, Ye An was now sitting on Xie Shuo’s lap. His tie had been taken off and thrown to the side; the two collar buttons of his shirt were undone, revealing a flush on his collarbone.

This appearance made people itch with desire.

Ye An suppressed her stirring thoughts and pushed his chest before saying disdainfully, “You’re full of sweat; go take a shower.”

Xie Shuo held her and kissed her two more times before letting go and getting up.

Ye An grabbed his PJs for him and placed them in the bathroom. This time, Xie Shuo didn’t take advantage of this to mess around with her.

Ye An showered after him. When she came out of the bathroom, the bedroom was empty, and there was no sign of Xie Shuo.

Ye An walked out of the bedroom and looked toward the direction of the study. As expected, the light was on inside, casting a long beam of light through the partially closed door.

She walked over and pushed the door open, finding him sitting at the desk, typing on the keyboard in front of the laptop. The glasses perched on the bridge of his nose reflected a glimmer of light.

Ye An: …. Finally back early for once, and he’s still working overtime at home.

This man had no sense of moderation when he got busy. Thinking about his eyes, Ye An pushed the door open and walked in.

Hearing the sound, Xie Shuo looked up and glanced at her before continuing with his work.

Ye An walked over to his side and leaned against the side of the chair, resting her elbow on his shoulder before leaning in close to his ear and saying, “Still not sleeping?”

The smell of body wash wafted in the air, and Xie Shuo kneaded her fingertips, saying, “You go to bed first.”

Ye An raised her other hand. Initially, she intended to take off his glasses, but after some thought, she changed her mind.

She smiled and extended the tip of her foot to gently brush against his shin.

For the first few touches, Xie Shuo didn’t react.

Ye An leaned in again by his ear and blew a breath. “Honey…”

Just as she finished blowing, her waist was embraced, and Xie Shuo lifted her onto his lap.

Ye An wrapped her arm around his neck with a playful smile and asked, “Really not sleeping?”

Xie Shuo’s eyes darkened, finally taking off his glasses. He pinched her chin and leaned down to kiss her.

The sounds in the room continued until midnight, and the two took another shower.

Ye An, feeling weak all over, curled up in Xie Shuo’s arms, almost drifting off to sleep when she suddenly heard him ask, “Where do you want to go for our honeymoon?”

With drooping eyelids, she mumbled, “With how busy you are every day, do you even have time to go on a honeymoon?”

Xie Shuo said nothing, just kissed her forehead.

Extremely sleepy, Ye An randomly mentioned, “How about Africa? I want to dig for diamonds and become richer than you.”

Xie Shuo: “…….”

First Antarctica, now Africa.

Her thought process was always so unconventional.

Completely oblivious to his reaction, Ye An held his waist and snuggled in his embrace before drifting into a deep sleep.

The next day, as per his routine, Xie Shuo woke up early and went to work. Ye An stood in front of the mirror, going through her morning routine, when she suddenly recalled his question from last night and paused.

He finally remembered that they hadn’t gone on a proper honeymoon?

However, after that, Xie Shuo hadn’t brought up the topic of their honeymoon again.

Ye An speculated that he might have considered it but was overwhelmed with his responsibilities. She didn’t dwell on it too much since they had plenty of time ahead. Whenever they found the time, they could always plan and make up for it.

……

Days passed amid the hustle and bustle, and with the arrival of winter, the foliage turned yellow.

One day at the end of November, Xie Shuo suddenly took her to the hospital for a check-up,

His unexpected move left Ye An a bit uneasy. Lately, the pressure from his grandfather and the rest to have children had been increasing. Could it be that he couldn’t resist any longer and wanted children now?

Ye An didn’t oppose the idea of having children, but the suddenness of it all made her a bit anxious. They hadn’t discussed it beforehand, and they hadn’t even started preparing for pregnancy.

That night, after taking a shower, Ye An climbed into bed. Seeing Xie Shuo sitting at the bedside looking at a document, she leaned over and asked, “Why did you suddenly decide to have a check-up today? Did Grandpa and Dad pressure you again?”

Xie Shuo looked up, stunned.

Seeing his reaction, Ye An thought she had guessed right. She moved closer to him and said, “Such an important matter, why didn’t you discuss it with me…”

Before she could finish her sentence, she suddenly caught a glimpse of a line on the document in his hand… Antarctic Travel Plan.

She was stunned. “What’s this?” 

Xie Shuo handed her the document. “Didn’t you say you wanted to go to Antarctica for our honeymoon?”

Ye An: …….?

They were really going to Antarctica!

Ye An was shocked. When she came back to her senses, she snatched the travel plan and started reading it carefully.

“When did you start planning this?”

Ye An looked up, overjoyed.

Xie Shuo smiled. “Don’t wanna go?”

“Of course, I wanna!”

No wonder he had been extremely busy in the past few months. Despite her constant nagging, it turned out he was busy preparing for this trip.

Ye An hugged his neck and gave him a deep kiss on his cheek. “I love you!”

Xie Shuo embraced her waist, then changed the topic suddenly, picking up on what she misunderstood earlier. “You want to have a baby?”

Ye AnL “…….”

“No!”

Ye An pushed him away coldly and turned to the side before immersing herself in looking at the travel plan.

Seeing the departure date on top, she couldn’t help but worry, “We’re leaving early next month, and I haven’t prepared anything. Won’t it be too rushed?”

Afraid she would spend the whole night dwelling on it, Xie Shuo took the paper from her hand and placed it on the nightstand.

Ye An reached out to grab it, but he pulled her into his arms. “I’ve already arranged everything. You just need to bring yourself.”

Leaning against him, Ye An was overjoyed and kissed his chin, her eyes sparkling as if she had already stepped into the icy world of Antarctica, seeing groups of penguins.

……

In early December, the couple, well-prepared, embarked on their honeymoon to Antarctica.

Before leaving, Ye An patted the little head of Yin Yin in the study and said with a smile, “We’re going to see your relatives!”

Yin Yin excitedly flapped its small wings. “I want to go too! I want to go too!”

Ye An couldn’t help but chuckle and waved at it before walking out of the study arm-in-arm with Xie Shuo.

The preliminary plan for this trip was set for a month. They would first take a private plane to King George Island and then board a cruise ship heading toward the Antarctic Peninsula.

On the day they boarded the cruise ship, while there was still a signal, Ye An took a photo and posted it on her WeChat Moments.

Caption: Honeymoon in Antarctica…

The photo received an immediate flood of comments…

“Antarctica?”

“Is this a ‘Once in a Lifetime’ series? Share itinerary!”

“Can you buy a penguin back for me? Or maybe a seal?”

……

The scenery along the way was infinite, and the two enjoyed the views as if they had entered another world.

In December, Antarctica had long daylight hours, and the weather was relatively warm.

On the azure sea, glaciers floated, and in the distance, there was an endless expanse of pristine white snow.

In the midst of the ice and snow, Ye An finally saw living penguins. They moved in groups, walking clumsily yet cutely.

Leaning against Xie Shuo’s embrace, she pointed to one of them and said, “Look, doesn’t that one resemble Yin Yin?”

In reality, they were quite far away, and only the general outlines could be discerned, but she still thought it looked like Yin Yin.

Wrapping his arm around her shoulder, Xie Shuo looked in the direction that she pointed at and responded with an “En.”

Ye An turned around and cupped his face; the breath she exhaled turned into mist. “Do you know which one I’m talking about? Are you just responding to me?”

Her fingers were cold. Xie Shuo smiled and wrapped her hands in his palms, adjusting her scarf, and asked, “Do you want to go ashore and take a walk?”

Ye An nodded, and hand-in-hand with Xie Shuo, disembarked along with the others.

Later, the two took a photo on the island. At that moment, it seemed as if time had stopped, and the figures side by side merged with the eternal ice and snow of Antarctica.

……

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Soon, it was the eve of Xin Li’s birthday. Xie Yuran had dinner with her as usual and drove her back to her condo.

The car stopped downstairs at the condominium. Xin Li unbuckled her seatbelt and got out of the car. Xie Yuran followed suit, intending to accompany her upstairs.

However, Xin Li said, “Don’t come upstairs.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning against him and looking up with a smile. “I’m afraid if you come upstairs, you won’t want to leave again.”

Xie Yuran lowered his head and said, “How about moving in with me?”

Upon hearing this, Xin Li displayed a hesitant expression.

It wasn’t that she objected to living together; they had already done so many intimate things, so there was no need to be coy. However, she hadn’t confessed to her parents yet, and if they suddenly came over…

While she was in a dilemma, she noticed a sudden change in Xie Yuran’s expression, and his gaze shifted behind her.

“What’s wrong?”

Turning around, Xin Li followed his gaze and immediately spotted Xu Wanqin standing not far away… She had no idea how long she had been there.

Xin Li: “…….”

Speak of the devil.

After a pause, Xin Li let go of Xie Yuran and uttered, “Mom.”

……

……

In the living room, the atmosphere was awkward. Xin Li and Xie Yuran sat side by side on the sofa, silent.

Xu Wanqin sat on the other side, looking at the two of them with a solemn expression.

After a moment, Xin Li summoned up the courage to ask, “Mom, why are you here?”

Xu Wanqin didn’t respond to her and turned her gaze to Xie Yuran as if expecting an explanation from him.

Xie Yuran didn’t evade her gaze, meeting her eyes and tightening his grip on Xin Li’s hand.

“Auntie Xu, Xiao Li and I are dating.”

Xu Wanqin frowned slightly. Although Xie Yuran’s presence in the Xie family was relatively low compared to his brother, Xie Shuo, Xu Wanqin was not unfamiliar with him. 

The relationship between the Xin and Xie families was still intact, and considering Xie Yuran was her junior, Xu Wanqin didn’t want to create too much tension. She tried to ask calmly, “When did this start?”

Before Xie Yuran could respond, Xin Li interjected, “Just recently.”

Xu Wanqin glared at her, and Xin Li immediately fell silent.

Turning her attention back to Xie Yuran, Xu Wanqin said, “It’s getting late. I have something to discuss with Xiao Li. Why don’t you head back first?”

Xie Yuran appeared as if he still had something to say, but Xin Li scratched his palm and shot him a meaningful look. “Go back first.”

Xie Yuran glanced at her and then at Xu Wanqin before finally getting up and leaving.

With only the two of them left in the room, Xu Wanqin dropped the pretense and asked sternly, “What exactly is going on?”

Playing with her fingers, Xin Li looked down and said, “It’s just as you saw. I’m dating Xie Yuran.”

“……”

Xu Wanqin felt a lump in her chest. After all her efforts to set her up with Xie Shuo, she ended up choosing Xie Yuran?

Xu Wanqin’s head started to ache, so she raised her hands to massage her temples.

No wonder she had resisted being with Zhou Zeyan so adamantly.

Seeing her like this, Xin Li dared not argue with her and said, “Mom, he treats me very well. Can you guys try accepting him?”

Hearing these words, Xu Wanqin’s headache intensified. After a while, she said, “We’ll talk about this later.”

Putting down her hands, she looked at Xin Li and said, “Your dad hasn’t been feeling well lately. He just went to the hospital this afternoon. Go and visit him; don’t be at odds with him anymore.”

“Dad’s sick?”

Xin Li asked anxiously, “Is it serious?”

Xu Wanqin: “Nothing serious, but he needs to be observed in the hospital for two days.”

After a pause, she reminded, “Don’t tell him about you and Xie… Xie Yuran for now.”

Xin Li understood her meaning and nodded. If she were to reveal their relationship to him right now, it might turn a non-serious condition into a critical one.

“You two…” Xu Wanqin seemed to want to ask something else but didn’t know where to start, so she stopped.

With Xin Yuanhong’s illness, it wasn’t good for Xin Li to quarrel with him. Early the next morning, she went to the hospital to visit him. 

Perhaps because it was her birthday, Xin Yuanhong didn’t stay glum when he saw her, and the relationship between father and daughter finally eased a bit.

Xin Li spent the entire day at the hospital and didn’t return to her condo at night. Instead, she went directly back to the Xin family residence. 

Xu Wanqin had already arranged for a cake and birthday presents to be prepared, simply celebrating her birthday.

After dinner, Xin Li returned to her room and couldn’t wait to take out her phone. She sent a message to Xie Yuran, asking what he was up to.

However, after a while, she didn’t receive a reply.

Xin Li couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed. After all, it was her birthday today. How could he not show any signs of well wishes?

Could he have forgotten?

Just as she was pondering, a call came in.

Seeing the nickname displayed on the screen, Xin Li’s eyes lit up, and she answered the call.

“Hello?”

“You went home?” Xie Yuran asked.

Xin Li responded with an “En,” before complaining, “Did you forget what day it is today?”

Xie Yuran: “Do you still want your birthday present?”

“?”

“Come out, I’m in front of your house.”

Xin Li was taken aback, instinctively turning to look out the window… of course, she couldn’t see anything.

Returning to her senses, she slipped on her slippers and ran out of her room quietly, looking left and right to ensure no one noticed before swiftly exiting the house.

The night breeze brushed past her ears, and her heart pounded. As she walked, she couldn’t help but complain in her mind: What era is this? Meeting a boyfriend feels like a secret rendezvous.

Passing through the main gate, Xin Li immediately saw a familiar figure under the moonlight.

Leaning against his car, Xie Yuran watched as she ran out in a dress, with a smile forming on his lips.

Xin Li jogged over to him, her eyes filled with surprise.

Xie Yuran handed her a jewelry box. “Happy birthday.”

Xin Li took it, opening the box.

Inside was a custom-made bracelet: a delicate silver chain with a beautifully crafted little fox made of a gemstone, transparent and lovely without losing its cuteness.

Xin Li fell in love with it at first sight and couldn’t bear to part with it, smiling brightly.

Xie Yuran asked, “I’ll put it on for you?”

Xin Li extended her wrist to him with a bright smile.

Taking the bracelet, Xie Yuran looked down and put it on her. His fingertips lightly glided over her wrist, a tingling sensation spreading to the depths of his heart.

The bracelet was exquisite, emitting a delicate glow under the lamplight, especially enchanting on her fair-as-jade wrist.

After putting it on, Xie Yuran naturally clasped her slender fingers and pulled her closer.

Xin Li kissed him on the lips as if rewarding him.

“This present is quite satisfactory.”

Xie Yuran smiled slightly, his fingers gently caressing her knuckles as he asked, “How’s your dad’s health?”

Xin Li’s smile faded slightly. “It’s nothing serious; he’ll be discharged in a couple of days.”

Looking down at her, Xie Yuran pondered for a moment before saying, “How about I pay him a visit?”

Xin Li was startled and hurriedly said, “Not now!”

Afraid that he might be upset, Xin Li hugged him and explained, “My dad wants me to marry into the Zhou family. He’s been angry at me because of this. If you visit him now, he’ll definitely be even angrier…”

“How about you visit him after he has fully recovered?”

Xie Yuran remained silent, and Xin Li could only kiss him again.

Xie Yuran lifted his hand, embracing her waist.

The gentle breeze brushed through their hair, and under the streetlight, the leaves swayed gently, creating patterns of light and shadow.

……

After her birthday, Xin Li continued to stay at home, not returning to her condo.

Xin Yuanhong’s health improved, but he persisted in the matter of a political marriage, actively searching for a new prospective partner for her.

Xin Li felt perplexed.

In actuality, she could understand their perspective. The Xin family had been facing a downhill trend in the past two years, and the recent financial issues in the company made the need for a marital alliance even more pressing. If it weren’t for Xie Yuran, perhaps she would have compromised long ago.

Just at this time, Xie Yuran was forcibly called back to HQ due to the wedding preparations for Xie Shuo, temporarily taking over the affairs there. He was busy day in and day out.

The two barely had any chances to meet, and Xin Li found herself without a place to seek comfort.

Seeing that Xin Yuanhong was about to set her up with a new prospective partner, Xin Li finally couldn’t hold back and called Xie Yuran.

When he answered the call, Xie Yuran had just returned from a business trip. He was unlocking his door when he asked, “What’s the matter?”

Feeling stifled, Xin Li, in a moment of impulsiveness, spilled everything to him.

In the end, she said, “How about we secretly register our marriage?”

Xie Yuran paused and said, “Okay, how about tomorrow morning?”

Xin Li chuckled. “I’m just kidding. Did you really believe me? You betta propose first before thinking I’ll marry you! How presumptuous!”

Xie Yuran laughed.

With their playful banter, Xin Li’s mood improved significantly. Considering he had just returned from a business trip and must be tired, she didn’t keep him on call for too long and was about to hang up.

“It’s late, get some rest. Let’s talk tomorrow, goodnight.”

Just before she hung up, Xie Yuran asked, “Do you have any plans tomorrow?”

Lying on the bed, Xin Li turned to look out the window and said unhurriedly, “Nothing planned. Why, do you finally have some time?”

Xie Yuran unbuttoned his shirt, saying, “Wait for me at your house tomorrow morning.”

Hearing this, Xin Li excitedly sat up. “Okay.”

……

At 9:30 a.m. the next morning, Xie Yuran arrived punctually outside the Xin family residence.

Answering her phone, Xin Li excitedly grabbed her purse and headed out.

The sky was clear, and the greenery in the residential area was lush and vibrant. Xie Yuran leaned against the car door, waiting for her.

Quickly approaching, Xin Li held his face in her hands, deliberately sighing, “Sigh, it’s not easy. I finally get to see my boyfriend live.”

Xie Yuran chuckled and opened the car door for her.

As the car left the residential area, Xin Li suddenly remembered to ask, “Where are we going?”

Xie Yuran glanced at her and said with a smile, “You’ll find out when we get there.”

So mysterious…

Suddenly recalling the joke from last night, Xin Li exclaimed, “You’re not seriously planning to go to the Civil Affairs Bureau, are you? I didn’t bring my hukou.”

Xie Yuran turned around a bit. “Go back and get it?”

Judging by his calm demeanor, it was clear that wasn’t the case. Ignoring him, Xin Li turned around to look ahead.

The car drove through the city and headed to a secluded area, finally stopping outside the Xie family’s ancestral home.

Xin Li got out of the car and looked around, realizing where they were. She stared at Xie Yuran in disbelief.

Xie Yuran held her hand, leading her inside and answering her previous question, “We’re here to see yeye*.”

yeye – a term to address one’s paternal grandfather

Xin Li was instantly overwhelmed, and she quickly pulled down the hem of her knee-length dress, all flustered. “Why didn’t you tell me in advance? If I had known, I wouldn’t have worn this dress.”

As she said that, she stopped in her tracks and took out a mirror from her purse before adjusting her hair, looking visibly nervous.

Seeing her like this, Xie Yuran couldn’t help but smile. Normally fearless and outspoken, it was surprising to see her nervous now.

He took her mirror and said with a smile, “You look beautiful.”

Leading her inside, Xin Li felt as if her heart had stopped. When they reached the entrance, she suddenly remembered something and anxiously said, “I didn’t bring a gift!” 

“How about we just forget about it today? We can come back when I’m ready?”

She turned to go back, but Xie Yuran held onto her wrist. On her wrist was the little fox bracelet he had given her, sparking in the sunlight.

“Scared?”

He raised an eyebrow, smirking,

Xin Li could never resist a challenge, and she retorted, “Who’s scared?”

Xie Yuran chuckled, leading her by the hand as they ascended the steps and entered the manor.

Grandfather Xie was sitting in the living room with a cup of hot tea on the coffee table in front of him. It seemed like he had been waiting for them for a while.

“Yeye.”

Xie Yuran led Xin Li forward and greeted him.

Grandfather Xie smiled kindly. “You’re here?”

Xin Li composed herself and returned a smile. “Xie yeye.”

Grandfather Xie nodded. “Take a seat.”

They sat side by side, and Grandfather Xie looked at Xin Li from head to toe, smiling gently. “It’s been a while. You seem to have lost some weight. Has Xiao Ran not been taking good care of you?”

Xin Li’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she glanced at Xie Yuran.

That afternoon, Xin Li and Xie Yuran stayed to have lunch with Grandfather Xie, and they chatted for a while before leaving in the afternoon.

After getting into the car, Xin Li gradually came back to her senses and turned to ask Xie Yuran, “Why… did you suddenly decide to bring me to meet your grandfather?”

Xie Yuran gripped the steering wheel and was about to start the car when he paused at her question.

He turned around, smiling at her. “If I don’t bring you here soon, my girlfriend might become someone else.”

Xin Li chuckled but then grew concerned, asking uncertainly, “Are you planning to have your grandfather step in and persuade my parents?”

“Xiao Li.”

Suddenly, he reached out and held her hand, his expression earnest.

“While I may not be as capable as my brother, I’m not as useless as you think. There are things I simply choose not to fight for. My uncle has done a lot for me, and my brother has always protected me since we were kids. For me, they are more important than so-called fame and status.”

That’s why, after becoming an adult, he chose to avoid any collision of interests with Xie Shuo, becoming independent.

Looking at her, he said, “But for you, I will do my best to strive.”

Xin Li was momentarily stunned.

……

A few days later, Grandfather Xie and Xie Baiyan personally accompanied Xie Yuran to visit the Xin family.

Before they arrived, Xin Li confessed to Xin Yuanhong about her relationship with Xie Yuran.

Xu Yuanhong, like Xu Wanqin, was also very surprised when he learned about it.

So, after all the commotion, it was back to the Xie family?

Before he could fully process this, Grandfather Xie, Xie Baiyan, and Xie Yuran had arrived.

Once seated, Grandfather Xie smiled and said, “I came here today to talk to you all about these two kids…”

As Xin Yuanhong listened to Grandfather Xie’s words, he looked toward Xin Li seated beside Xie Yuran, and his initial frown gradually relaxed.

If this had happened in the past, he and Xu Wanqin might have opposed it. However, with Grandfather Xie and Xie Baiyan stepping in and considering Xin Li’s firm stance, they ultimately chose to agree after careful consideration.

Finally free from hiding, Xin Li breathed a sigh of relief and began to let herself go.

They could finally date openly and publicly, occasionally showing PDA with Xie Yuran, appearing to be a couple deeply in love, which earned teasing from her girlfriends. 

In June, Xie Shuo and Ye An held a belated wedding ceremony, and Xin Li was invited to attend.

The bride wore a white wedding dress with a long, flowing train that spread out like layers of stars.

Looking at the wedding dress, Xin Li turned to Xie Yuran and said, “This wedding dress is so beautiful.”

Xie Yuran asked in a low voice, “You like it?”

Xin Li glanced at him, seeming to guess what he was about to say, deliberately choosing not to answer.

The wedding was grand and lively, lasting until late at night. Xie Yuran, as one of the groomsmen, shielded Xie Shuo from a fair share of toasts.

Xin Li was concerned that he couldn’t handle it and helped him to his room to rest.

Xie Yuran was quite drunk, stumbling into his room and collapsing onto the bed, carelessly pulling at his tie.

Xin Li had someone bring honey water up and helped him sit up, offering the cup to his lips.

After drinking half the cup of honey water, Xie Yuran became a bit more sober. He leaned against Xin Li’s shoulder, squinting his eyes.

Xin Li helped him loosen his tie and unbutton his shirt collar, saying, “Go take a shower before you sleep.”

Xie Yuran massaged his temples and, with her support, stood up and headed to the bathroom to take a shower.

Xin Li walked to the balcony, leaning against the railing, gazing at the vast night sky.

The breeze was cool, and the moon was bright, with the stars shimmering.

After a while, footsteps sounded, and Xie Yuran, still a bit wet from the shower, embraced her from behind.

In moments like these, even without saying a word, it didn’t feel dull. It just seemed like a peaceful and good moment in time.

“Does your design studio take wedding dress commissions?” 

Xie Yuran suddenly asked.

Xin Li paused, turning around to look at him.

After a while, she raised her chin slightly, smiling. “That depends on who it’s for.”

Xie Yuran lowered his head, a smile in his eyes. “For my girlfriend.”

Xin Li turned back, gazing once again at the vast starry sky with a bright smile.

A few seconds later, her voice floated in the night breeze…

“We can consider it.”

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Epilogue 12: Xin Li & Xie Yuran

Xin Li entered the house with light steps, but her smile faded when she saw Xu Wanqin sitting in the living room.  

While she solved the issue with Zhou Zeyan, dealing with her parents would be another challenge.

Seeing Xin Li’s seemingly happy expression when she came in, Xu Wanqin thought she had been on a date with Zhou Zeyan and asked, “Did Zeyan send you back? Why didn’t you invite him in?”

Xin Li hesitated for a moment but eventually couldn’t hold back and said, “Mom, Zhou Zeyan and I are not suitable for each other.”

Xu Wanqin was surprised upon hearing her words. “You two were getting along so well. What do you mean that you two aren’t suitable so suddenly?”

Xin Li: “We’re just not suitable. I made it clear to him today.”

Xu Wanqin’s expression immediately changed, frowning. “Such a big matter; why didn’t you discuss it with me and your dad beforehand?”

Not wanting to argue with her, Xin Li suppressed her frustration and said, “Discussing it wouldn’t have changed anything. I really don’t have any feelings for him. I’m sleepy, gonna go to bed.”

Without giving Xu Wanqin a chance to respond, she quickly went upstairs.

“Xiao Li…”

Xu Wanqin sighed helplessly as she watched Xin Li’s retreating figure.

That night, after Xin Yuanhong returned home from his social gathering, Xu Wanqin informed him about the matter.

Xin Yuanhong, unlike Xu Wanqin, was not as easy-going. The next morning, during breakfast, he questioned Xin Li. He was in the middle of negotiating a partnership with the Zhou family, and any complications at this time were unacceptable.

Xin Li restrained her impulses this time and didn’t argue with him. She remained silent, letting him scold her without uttering a word.

Seeing her like this, Xin Yuanhong felt a lump in his chest. Unable to continue scolding, he suppressed his anger and went to work.

Once he left, Xin Li packed her things, preparing to move back to her condo.

Xu Wanqin came over to persuade her, “Xiao Li, don’t be so stubborn…”

Xin Li dragged her suitcase, pausing at the doorway, and asked, “Mom, am I just a tool for a political marriage?”

Xu Wanqin’s expression froze.

Xin Li said nothing further and walked straight out of the main door.

……

Since Xin Li hadn’t lived in her condo for a long while, it had gathered quite a bit of dust. She hired someone to come and clean, busying herself until dark.

Looking at the clean and bright room, her mood improved a lot. She lay on the sofa, legs crossed, and sent a message to Xie Yuran.

At noon, she had already informed Xie Yuran that she was moving back to her condo and arranged to have dinner together.

Xin Li: “I’m dead tired. When are you coming over?”

Xin Li: “Lying down.”

Several minutes later, Xie Yuran directly called her, “I have a matter to deal with later. How about we have dinner tomorrow?”

Xin Li had just quarreled with her family and was feeling a bit down. She initially wanted him to comfort her, but now that he dipped on her, she couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed. “Alright, take care of business first.”

After hanging up the call, she punched the pillow in her arms unhappily before getting up and going out to find a restaurant nearby to have dinner.

Upon returning home, she entered the study and started designing on her laptop.

The entire condo was quiet, with just her inside. In the middle of sketching, her phone, placed beside her, suddenly vibrated.  

With a glance, she saw that it was her brother calling her.

“Argued with Mom and Dad again?”

Xin Yu asked as soon as she answered the phone.

Lately, Xin Yu rarely stayed at home, so he hadn’t witnessed the scene this morning. He had only heard about her moving out from their mom, Xu Wanqin.

Pursing her lips, Xin Li mumbled, “They insist that I marry Zhou Zeyan, but I really don’t have any interest in him.”

Xin Yu had always been protective of her, so upon hearing her words, he didn’t erupt in anger like Xin Yuanhong. Instead, he changed the topic and asked, “Any plans tomorrow? Wanna go to the equestrian club with me?”

Feeling irritated, Xin Li wanted to go out and clear her mind, so she readily agreed, “Sure.”

Xin Yu: “I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning then.”

After talking with Xin Yu, Xin Li looked at her nearly completed draft. Feeling a bit tired, she closed her laptop and went to take a shower.

Coming out of the bathroom after taking a shower, Xin Li walked toward her bed, preparing to sleep, when her phone suddenly rang.

She picked it up and answered.

Xie Yuran’s slightly tipsy voice came through, “Are you asleep?”

Sitting down at the edge of the bed, Xin Li replied, “Not yet.”

Xie Yuran: “Come and open the door.”

Xin Li was stunned for a bit before quickly walking out of her room.

Opening the door, Xin Li found Xie Yuran standing outside, dressed in a white button-up, looking exceptionally good-looking.

Her eyes lit up. “Didn’t you say you had something to do?”

Xie Yuran smiled. “I wanted to see you.”

Entering the condo, he closed the door behind him, and concerned that she might be upset and still hadn’t eaten, asked, “Have you had dinner?”

“Yeah.”

Xin Li smiled, and the previous displeasure she felt seemed to vanish in thin air with his arrival.

Relieved, Xie Yuran embraced her shoulder and led her further inside.

Xin Li caught a faint scent of alcohol from him and asked, “Have you been drinking?”

Xie Yuran loosened his tie and sat on the sofa. “I had a little at dinner tonight.”

Turning around, Xin Li went to the kitchen and made a cup of tea before handing it to him.

Accepting the tea, Xie Yuran held her hand and pulled her to sit beside him.

He took a few sips of the tea before placing the cup down on the coffee table and asking, “Are you still hungry? How about I accompany you for a late-night snack?”

Xin Li shook her head. “No thanks, I’ve already taken a shower.”

Xie Yuran’s gaze fell on her, noticing she was wearing a light and thin nightgown, revealing a large expanse of her snow-white collarbone.

Sensing his gaze, Xin Li didn’t avoid it and raised an eyebrow. “Where are you looking?”

Having had some drinks, Xie Yuran’s eyes lost their usual clarity, gaining a hint of drunken haziness.

He focused on her for a few seconds before leaning closer and whispering, “Looking at my girlfriend.”

Xin Li’s heart skipped a beat, and the next moment, her lips were gently kissed by him.

She tilted her head up slightly as her fingers clutched his shoulder, exerting a little pressure.

Their breaths intertwined between their lips as the fragrance of shower gel mixed with a subtle hint of alcohol. The curtain swayed in the night breeze, creating a rhythmic dance.

After a while, Xin Li felt her nightgown being lifted. Suddenly, she remembered something, and the remaining trace of reason prompted her to stop his hand.

Pushing him away, she looked up and said, “I’m going to the equestrian club with my brother tomorrow, and he’ll be coming to pick me up early in the morning.”

Xie Yuran paused and withdrew his hand before looking down at her. “I’ll go with you.”

Xin Li mentioned this to remind him to be discreet, but he seemed to completely miss her point and hastily said, “Let’s not for now. My brother doesn’t know about us yet…”

As soon as she said that, the expression on Xie Yuran’s face became a bit muted. He let go of her and sat back.

Xin Li held his hand, observing his expression. “Angry?”

Xie Yuran remained silent.

Xin Li leaned forward and embraced his waist, coaxing him, “My brother has a bit of a bad impression of you from the things before. If we tell him about us now, he might end up punching you.”

She concealed the reason involving her parents and pinched his chin, saying, “Who told you to dip on me tonight? I thought you were busy tomorrow; else, I wouldn’t have agreed to him.”

After hearing her words, Xie Yuran’s expression softened.

The night outside deepened. Holding her waist, he massaged his temples and said, “Go to bed early. I’ll go back first.”

As he stood up, Xin Li followed suit. Noticing his discarded tie, she picked it up and handed it to him. “Your tie.”

Taking it, he walked toward the door.

Sending him to the door, Xin Li tiptoed to kiss him. “Goodnight.”

Finally, a smile appeared on Xie Yuran’s face. “Goodnight.”

……

Early the next morning, Xin Yu came to pick up Xin Li.

Together, they went to the equestrian club in the suburbs, and to their surprise, they saw Xie Yuran there.

Xin Li was taken aback.

Xin Yu also paused and glanced at Xie Yuran before turning to look at her.

Afraid that Xin Yu might notice something, Xin Li quickly withdrew her gaze, pretending as if they had no connection. However, she couldn’t help but sneak a glance at him from the corner of her eye.

Not long after, the two of them went to change into riding attire.

Xin Li managed to change ahead of Xin Yu. Seizing the opportunity, she secretly pulled Xie Yuran aside and asked, “Why are you here?”

Xie Yuran asked insipidly, “Why can’t I be here?”

Xin Li: “……..”

The equestrian club wasn’t owned by her family, so he was indeed allowed to be there.

“Then, don’t get too close to me later, in case my brother was to find out,” Xin Li instructed.

Xie Yuran neither agreed nor disagreed, just looking at her.

While they were talking, Xin Yu also came out after changing into his riding clothes. Xin Li quickly turned around, preparing to go choose a horse.

Just as she was about to take a step, her hand was suddenly grabbed. Xin Li turned back and tried to free herself. “Let go quickly…”

Seeing that Xin Yu was coming their way, she became anxious and tried to break free.

“My brother is coming over; let go quickly!”

Before Xin Yu approached, Xie Yuran finally let go of her hand.

Xin Li gave him a warning look that seemed to say, “If you mess around again, go back and kneel on the keyboard.” She then greeted her brother with a smile, “Ge.”

Xin Yu looked past her and glanced at Xie Yuran, who was not far away, meaningfully.

Feeling a bit guilty, Xin Li pulled him to another side to choose horses.

Perhaps it was the warning look from Xin Li that deterred him. During horseback riding, Xie Yuran didn’t get too close to her. He kept a certain distance, following from afar.

Xin Li hadn’t gone horseback riding in a long time. After a few laps, she decided to take a break. However, she accidentally twisted her foot when she dismounted.

Fortunately, it wasn’t a serious injury, just a slight pain when walking. She didn’t dare to exert too much force. After returning to the lounge, she headed to the restroom.

When she came out, she saw Xie Yuran waiting outside.

He stepped forward to support her. Looking at her foot, he asked with a frown, “Did you sprain it?”

The surroundings were open, making it easy for others to see. Xin Li hurriedly tried to push him away, saying, “I’m fine…”

Ignoring her protests, Xie Yuran embraced her waist, attempting to lift her up.

Just then, footsteps sounded from behind. Xin Li’s heart skipped a beat, and she quickly freed herself from Xie Yuran, moving to the side.

It wasn’t until she turned a corner in the corridor and saw no one was there that Xin Li leaned against the wall, relieved.

She looked at Xie Yuran, who followed after her, whispering, “Didn’t I tell you not to stay too close to me? What if we’re found out?”

Xie Yuran stared at her, his expression turning somewhat soured. “Am I that disgraceful to be seen with?”

Xin Li was taken aback.

His expression was glum, seemingly genuinely upset.

“No…” Xin Li was about to explain when footsteps approached once again.

Xin Yu appeared at the corner, observing the two of them.

Xie Yuran glanced in his direction and said nothing more before following Xin Li’s suggestion to leave from another direction.

Xin Li instinctively wanted to call him back, but before she could speak, Xin Yu had already walked up to her.

“Why are you entangled with him again?” Xin Yu questioned.

Feeling bothered by Xie Yuran’s words just now, Xin Li decided she was too tired of hiding, so she directly admitted, “Ge, we’re together now. He’s my boyfriend.”

Xin Yu frowned. “Since when?”

Xin Li: “A while ago.”

Xin Yu finally understood why she had suddenly rejected Zhou Zeyan. He couldn’t help but feel a headache. “Is he the only option for you?”

Looking into his eyes, Xin Li softly said after a moment, “Ge, I really like him.”

No matter how good others might be, they were irrelevant to her.

Xin Yu was always unable to bear seeing her in such a pitiful state, so he softened his tone after a moment of silence and asked, “What do you plan to do about Mom and Dad? Do you intend to keep it a secret forever?”

Xin Li paused before replying, “I will find the right time to confess to them, but please don’t tell them for now.”

Xin Yu naturally wouldn’t tell on her, saying reluctantly, “Let’s go get lunch.”

They returned to the lobby, but there was no sign of Xie Yuran.

She looked around but couldn’t find him anywhere.

Did he really leave in anger?

Did he have to be this petty?

Taking out her phone, Xin Li called him.

After a bit, he answered. 

“Where are you?”

“I have something to attend to, so I went back to the city.”

His tone was somewhat cold, and Xin Li asked, “Are you really angry?”

There was a faint, indistinct, clamorous noise from the other end. Xie Yuran must be on the road. After a while, he said, “No.”

Xin Li continued, “Let’s have dinner together?”

“En,” came the reply.

……

Around 4 p.m., Xin Li returned to her condo, feeling sore all over. After taking a shower, she lay on the bed like a corpse.

As the sun set, Xie Yuran finally came over.

Hearing the doorbell, Xin Li quickly got up from the bed and rushed to open the door.

Before Xie Yuran entered the door, she threw herself into his arms, hugging his neck tightly. “You’re here!”

Xie Yuran was pushed back half a step by her sudden embrace but quickly recovered, holding her waist.

Her body wash wafted through the air as Xie Yuran embraced her waist and walked inside. In contrast to her enthusiasm, he was much calmer.

Seeing him silent, Xin Li planted a kiss on his lips. “Still upset?”

Xie Yuran looked down at her; any lingering anger faded away in the face of her playfulness.

He asked, “Didn’t you mention going out for dinner?”

Xin Li smiled. “I’ll go change. Wait here for me.”

With that, she kissed him again and turned to enter her room.

Her touch on his lips felt like a dragonfly skimming the water. Xie Yuran watched her retreating figure and smiled.

After changing, Xin Li did some light makeup and came out of her room.

“Let’s go.”

The two went downstairs and headed to a nearby restaurant.

After dinner, it was still quite early, so Xin Li pulled Xie Yuran for a stroll in the park next to the restaurant.

As they walked, a young couple passed them; the girl held a bouquet of vibrant roses.

Xin Li glanced at them and couldn’t resist poking Xie Yuran’s chest. “Look at you. Since we met until now, forget about gifts, you haven’t even given me a single strand of flowers. Yet, you have the nerve to be angry with me.” 

Xie Yuran grabbed her finger and interlocked his hand with hers. Suddenly, he asked, “Is your birthday coming up soon?”

“There’s still five more days,” Xin Li raised an eyebrow. “You still remember? I thought you had long forgotten.”

Xie Yuran recalled the bites she gave him on her last birthday night. He leaned down to her ear and said, “You bit so hard; how could I forget?”

Xin Li: “…….”

Xin Li’s ears went slightly warm, glaring at him. “Who told you not to prepare a birthday present for me?”

After strolling for a while, Xie Yuran sent Xin Li back to her condo.

Once inside, Xin Li held onto his arm, showing no intention of letting go.

Leaning against him, she looked up and asked, “Have you figured out what present to give me this year?”

Xie Yuran smiled slightly but didn’t answer.

Xin Li grabbed his collar and raised her chin before saying willfully, “If you don’t prepare anything this time, I’ll…” 

Xie Yuran glanced at the collar she had pulled open and asked, “What will you do?”

Xin Li tilted her head and nibbled his Adam’s apple before pushing him down onto the sofa. Kneeling beside his legs, she looked down at him with a playful glint in her eyes.

With a hint of a smile on his lips, Xie Yuran lay casually, letting her take the lead.

Xin Li leaned in, sealing his lips with hers.

Suddenly, she pushed him away and got up, sitting beside him.

Xie Yuran immediately felt the weight off of him and was momentarily stunned before sitting up, too.

Xin Li smiled at him, her face still flushed, but she was clear-headed. Her bright eyes sparkled. “It’s so late. Aren’t you gonna go back yet?”

Looking at her, Xie Yuran’s eyes were fervent.

Xin Li grabbed a pillow to put in front of her body before reminding him once more, “You should head back now.”

As if he hadn’t heard her words, Xie Yuran leaned in closer and took away the pillow that separated them before holding her slender shoulders.

……

The night had deepened, and the moon cast a faint light, silently falling through the window.

……

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Epilogue 11: Xin Li & Xie Yuran

Feeling as if he had been slapped in the face, Xie Yuran hesitated before saying, “I take back what I said before.”

In actuality, the major reason Xie Yuran said that they were not suitable initially was that he thought Xin Li, being a pampered heiress, would lose interest in him quickly. 

After all, it was his brother that the Xin family favored, not him.

“Words that are spoken are like spilled water; how can you take them back?”

Xin Li glanced at him. “Doesn’t your face hurt?”

Xie Yuran agreed with a nod, “It does.”

Xin Li smiled slightly and suddenly asked as she remembered something. “What about Zhang Muqing then?”

Mentioning Zhang Muqing, the hint of a smile vanished instantly from her face.

Worried that she might react as she did last time and ignore him, Xie Yuran earnestly explained, “Xiao Li, when I first met Zhang Muqing, we were both just teenagers. We shared a similar background of being taken in by others, creating a sense of camaraderie. She’s older than me and usually took care of me, so naturally, I developed some feelings. However, it was just a fleeting interest…”

“Later, I realized that she was actually interested in my older brother and was only using me. So, I gradually let go of any thoughts in that regard.”

He rarely spoke about the past with anyone as it carried a tinge of embarrassment. He had always been overshadowed by his brother, and he was just merely a supporting character in the eyes of others.

Even she, initially, was supposed to meet his brother.

“Who hasn’t been a bit reckless in their youth?”

He gazed at her, his slightly intoxicated eyes reflecting her figure. “What happened between me and her is long gone. Now, in front of me, is you.”

Hearing that last sentence, Xin Li smiled again, a hint of sweetness blooming in her heart.

She suppressed her almost overflowing joy and looked up at him, pretending to be disappointed. “Oh, just in front of you?”

Xie Yuran also smiled and took her hand, placing it on his chest. “Also, in my heart.”

Through the fabric of his shirt, she could feel the warmth and the beating of his heart. 

Feeling a bit embarrassed, Xin Li wanted to pull her hand back, but he held it firmly.

Xie Yuran lowered his head and gently kissed her.

Looking up, Xin Li endured his gentle touch and slowly opened her mouth, beginning to reciprocate.

After a long while, Xie Yuran finally left her lips, but he didn’t let her go. He held her waist and panted, his breath puffing on her ear.

The alcohol disrupted their thoughts. After a while, he lowered his head again, his kisses landing on her neck, becoming more pressing.

Seeing things getting out of control, Xin Li pressed a bit on his chest to stop him from going further.

Xie Yuran looked up, and with a breeze passing through the door, Xin Li became a bit sober and said, “I want to rest now. You should go.”

Xie Yuran was puzzled, not understanding why she suddenly changed her attitude.

Xin Li pushed him away and hesitated for a moment before saying, “I need to explain things to Zhou Zeyan first.”

She also had to explain things to her parents, and she feared it wouldn’t be easy.

Thinking about all this made Xin Li feel a bit restless.

Xie Yuran held her shoulders, frowning. “Are you really dating him?”

Looking up and seeing his serious expression, Xin Li couldn’t help but smile, arching an eyebrow. “If I really am, what are you planning to do?”

When she smiled, sparkles shone in her eyes, resembling falling stars. Lowering his head, Xie Yuran pecked at the corner of her lips before saying, “I’ll win you back.”

“If I really am dating him, it’s useless for you to even try.” 

Xin Li shot him a sideways glance. “Who asked you to reject me before?”

This statement implied that they weren’t together yet, and Xie Yuran softened his expression.

Xin Li opened the door, pushing him out. “Alright, you should leave. I’m really feeling dizzy.”

Xie Yuran stood at the doorway. “Rest well.”

“Got it.”

Xin Li closed the door.

As the room quieted down, she leaned against the door and touched her flushed face, suddenly feeling a sense of unreality.

……

The next day, Xin Li invited Zhou Zeyan to meet and have afternoon tea at a cafe.

Seeing her stirring her spoon incessantly without saying a word, Zhou Zeyan asked, “Did you invite me out to talk about something?”

Xin Li looked up and said, choosing her words carefully, “I’ve thought about it seriously these past few days, and maybe… we should call it off?”

Zhou Zeyan paused slightly before asking, “Because of Xie Yuran?”

Xin Li didn’t deny it, showing a guilty expression. “I’m sorry. I don’t want to waste your time, and I don’t want to deceive you.”

Since the last time he saw her with Xie Yuran, Zhou Zeyan had anticipated that such a day would come, so he wasn’t surprised.

He smiled. “It’s okay; we were clear about it from the start about being transparent.”

He didn’t really have strong feelings for her, just a slight interest. In political marriages, feelings weren’t the primary consideration.

Hearing his words, Xin Li felt relieved and said with a smile, “Thank you. I will explain things to my parents.”

After making things clear, the atmosphere became much more relaxed. They chatted for a while before leaving the cafe.

Zhou Zeyan politely asked, “Do you need a ride home?”

Xin Li shook her head with a smile. “No, thank you.”

Zhou Zeyan chuckled, teasing, “Waiting for someone to pick you up?”

Xin Li hadn’t thought of that, but his mention sparked a thought.

After Zhou Zeyan left, she took out her phone and wanted to send a message to Xie Yuran to have him come pick her up. However, she realized that she had blocked him.

Unblocking him, she messaged him, “What are you doing?”

Shortly after, Xie Yuran replied, “At the office.”

Xin Li: “When will you finish work today?”

Xie Yuran: “Half an hour later, what’s up?”

Xin Li: “Your girlfriend wants to invite you to have dinner. Do you want to come and pick her up?”

After sending the message, Xin Li’s cheeks blushed slightly as she awaited his response.

Inside his office, Xie Yuran saw the message on his phone and smiled before asking, “Where are you?”

Xin Li smiled and sent him her location.

As the sun began to set, the wind breezed through the bustling streets. Xin Li looked around and returned to the cafe, sitting by the window and waiting for him.

Outside the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, pedestrians hurriedly passed by. The slanting sunset created a beautiful reflection of radiance.

About an hour later, a familiar car stopped by the road. Seeing through the window, Xin Li’s eyes brightened and smiled.

Xie Yuran got out of the car and noticed Xin Li sitting by the window inside the cafe, separated by the glass.

Xin Li put her phone into her purse and swiftly exited the cafe, walking over to him.

Xie Yuran smiled slightly. “Did you wait for long?”

“It was quite a while. I almost got sick of coffee.”

Xin Li replied, sounding a bit displeased.

Wrapping his arm around her shoulder, Xie Yuran turned to open the passenger door for her.

Once Xin Li got into the car, she fastened her seatbelt and turned to him, saying, “Let’s just find a place nearby; I’m starving.”

Xie Yuran agreed and drove to a nearby Chinese restaurant.

The restaurant had an elegant, romantic atmosphere, with several couples on dates.

They chose a private room on the second floor where they could see the sunset through the window.

After seating themselves, Xin Li ordered some dishes and took a photo with her phone, her eyes sparkling.

Seeing the gleam in her eyes, Xie Yuran smiled and asked, “Do you want to go see a movie after dinner?”

Placing her phone down, Xin Li smiled, “Sure~”

As dusk fell, they finished dinner, and the night had set in.

The vibrant lights illuminated the plaza outside the movie theater, bustling with people.

They entered the movie theater and chose a rom-com.

Initially, Xin Li watched attentively, but as the plot took an unexpected turn, becoming more melodramatic, she lost interest. She began absentmindedly stuffing popcorn into her mouth.

She turned to glance at Xie Yuran, grabbing a piece of popcorn and offering it to him. Leaning in, she whispered some complaints about the plot.

Xie Yuran opened his mouth to accept the popcorn. In the dim light, the smell of popcorn quietly dispersed, adding a faint sweetness to the air.

Seeing her boredom, Xie Yuran whispered, “Let’s go back?”

Leaning against him, Xin Li glanced at the screen and said, “It’s almost over. Let’s finish it.”

After another ten minutes, the movie ended.

As the final scene darkened, the audience eagerly rushed toward the exit, chatting and complaining.

Xin Li and Xie Yuran also stood up, and as they did, someone bumped into them. Xie Yuran quickly wrapped his arm around Xin Li’s shoulder, shielding her in his embrace.

Leaning against him, Xin Li looked up at him, her heart overloading with sweetness. Even her dissatisfaction with the movie had dissipated.

Exiting the movie theater, they held hands with their fingers intertwined, strolling toward the parking area while chatting. 

The gentle night breeze brushed past them. The boundary between the shadows on the ground blurred.

Back in the car, Xie Yuran held the steering wheel with one hand and asked, “Where to?”

Xin Li retrieved the seatbelt and fastened it, smiling. “I haven’t been staying at my condo. Send me back home.”

Xie Yuran started the car, merging into the swiftly moving traffic after covering some distance.

Leaning back in her seat, Xin Li looked at his side profile, feeling happy; her eyes sparkling.

On both sides of the street, streetlights formed a continuous line, stretching far into the distance.

……

The car entered the residential area and eventually stopped outside the Xin family’s courtyard, a distance from the main entrance.

Xin Li unbuckled her seatbelt and turned to Xie Yuran, smiling. “I’ll head in first.”

After saying that, she opened the car door and got out.

The night wind blew past, carrying a hint of chilliness. Xie Yuran followed suit, suddenly grabbing her arm. 

Xin Li turned back, puzzled. “What?”

Xie Yuran looked at her, his gaze carrying a clear meaning. “Are you just going in like this?”

Xin Li paused before realizing his meaning, but she didn’t want to give in. Pretending to be clueless, she said, “What else?”

The night was hazy, and the soft light from the streetlights fell into her eyes, revealing a hint of mischievousness.

Xie Yuran pulled her in front of him and looked down at her.

Xin Li couldn’t help but suppress a laugh. She glanced around, making sure no one was near, then tiptoed and gave him a kiss. 

“See you tomorrow.”

Xie Yuran finally let go, whispering, “See you tomorrow.”

Xin Li waved, looking back every three steps while heading back before disappearing inside.

Xie Yuran stood by his car with one hand in his pocket. He watched her until her figure vanished from sight before driving away.

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Epilogue 10: Xin Li & Xie Yuran

It was rush hour, and people surged like a tide, bustling. 

Xin Li paused for a moment before continuing to move forward.

Xie Yuran walked over and grabbed her wrist.

Xin Li hesitated, then turned around before asking calmly, “Why are you here? I’ve already made myself clear last time.”

Xie Yuran looked at her. “You made yourself clear, but I haven’t.”

“What do you want to say?”

Xin Li tried to pull away, but he held onto her wrist even tighter.

Xie Yuran said, “The incident that night was a misunderstanding.”

Unable to free herself, Xin Li let him do as he pleased before looking up at him. “En, and then?” 

Xie Yuran: “…….”

Xin Li couldn’t understand him. In the past, he was indifferent to her pursuit. Now that she finally decided to let him go, he refused to move on.

Could it be that he developed feelings after sleeping together?

If she had known this, she wouldn’t have wasted so much effort chasing him. She would have just tackled him directly.

Seeing her indifferent expression, Xie Yuran felt a bit of a headache. “I did have some feelings for her, but it’s all in the past. When she came to me for help that day, I didn’t agree. With everything that happened with Zhang Junfeng, there’s no possibility of anything between her and me.”

Hearing the last two sentences, Xin Li’s anger flared up. “So, as a second choice, you turned back to me?”

Xie Yuran didn’t expect her to interpret it this way, frowning. “That’s not what I meant.”

Xin Li clearly didn’t believe him.

Looking at him, she said, “I know you want to take responsibility for that night, but I’ve already said that you don’t need to. We’re both adults; there’s no need to force ourselves to be together over such a matter.”

Just as her words fell, a voice suddenly sounded from nearby, “Xiao Li.”

Xin Li turned around, and she was taken aback upon seeing Zhou Zeyan standing not far away. 

Why is he here too?

Xie Yuran’s expression changed slightly, and his hand that was holding Xin Li’s wrist tightened suddenly.

Zhou Zeyan’s gaze fell on the two of them, but he didn’t walk over.

The atmosphere instantly became awkward, and Xin Li suddenly felt like she had one foot in two boats*, with a feeling of overturning unexpectedly.

one foot in two boats – having two lovers at the same time 

After a few silent seconds, she turned to Xie Yuran and said, “You’ve explained what needs to be explained. If there’s nothing else, I’ll leave first.”

She forcefully pulled away from him and walked quickly to Zhou Zeyan, asking, “Why are you here?”

Zhou Zeyan replied, “I had some business nearby, so I thought I’d drop by.”

He glanced at Xie Yuran and asked, “Did I disturb you?”

Xin Li shook her head, smiling a bit unnaturally. “No.”

Zhou Zeyan understood and then asked, “Want to grab dinner together?”

Xin Li hesitated for a moment, sensing the gaze behind her before agreeing, “Sure.”

She followed Zhou Zeyan into his car. Before they left, she turned back and saw Xie Yuran standing still in place, staring straight at them all glum.

The setting sun behind him painted a touch of loneliness, like a scene of desolation.

Soon, the car drove away, and Xin Li’s gaze remained fixed outside the window, staring at the bustling city landscape, not retracting.

A nameless, bitter feeling surged in her heart, and she couldn’t shake it off.

Zhou Zeyan suddenly asked, “The guy just now, was he your ex-boyfriend?”

Xin Li snapped back to reality and smiled. “No.”

They had never even been together, so how could he be considered an ex-boyfriend?

Zhou Zeyan seemed to understand what was going on and didn’t press for more details.

Xin Li looked out the window again, feeling a bit disoriented.

Despite her strong reluctance to admit it and her efforts to conceal it, she couldn’t deceive herself.

She still liked Xie Yuran; she hadn’t gotten over him.

Due to this little incident, Xin Li’s mood remained unsettled for several days. She was even too lazy to go to her studio and decided to invite her girlfriends to go out.  

……

Not long after, it was Xin Li’s grandfather’s birthday, and the Xin family hosted a banquet at a hotel.

Although the initial arranged marriage didn’t happen, the relationship between the Xin family and Grandfather Xie remained. Since Grandfather Xie wasn’t feeling well, Xie Shuo and Xie Yuran represented him to offer his well wishes.

Thus, during the banquet, Xin Li encountered Xie Yuran once again.

When he appeared, Xin Li was holding a glass of wine, chatting and laughing with Zhou Zeyan. When she looked up, she met his gaze and was slightly stunned.

The clamorous and bustling atmosphere in the hall seemed to fade away in an instant, and the voice beside her became indistinct.

Xie Yuran didn’t come up to her, stopping a few steps away and looking at her.

After a few seconds of eye contact, Xin Li came back to her senses and moved her gaze away before continuing to talk with Zhou Zeyan.

Seeing her smiling, Xie Yuran felt it was a sore sight for his eyes. He didn’t walk away and kept his gaze on her. 

Feeling uneasy, Xin Li chatted with Zhou Zeyan for a while before excusing herself and going to the nearby lounge area, holding her glass of wine.

As she walked over to the lounge area, she noticed Ye An sitting alone on the sofa, and Xie Shuo was nowhere to be seen.

After the last time, the two had become acquainted. Recently, she had heard that she and Xie Shuo were having talks of divorce. Curious, Xin Li sat down and engaged in some gossip. 

Before long, Xie Shuo came over and embraced the slightly drunk Ye An before leaving, leaving Xin Li alone there.

Amidst the lively crowd, she seemed so separate and away from it.

Xin Li downed the contents of her glass and sat alone for a while in a daze. Feeling a slight headache, she decided to go upstairs and find a room to rest.

As she stood up and took a step, she noticed Xie Yuran standing not far away, watching her. It wasn’t clear for how long he had been standing there.

Through the layers of shadows cast by the lights, his handsome features appear somewhat blurred, and his expression mysterious. 

Xin Li paused in her steps and glanced at him before turning around and walking through the crowd, heading upstairs.

The hallway was carpeted, muffling the sound of footsteps. Yet, Xin Li felt his presence behind her.

Without looking back, she staggered to a room and inserted the keycard.

As she entered the room, she went to close the door when a slender hand suddenly blocked it.

Looking up, Xin Li saw Xie Yuran’s face. Before she could react, he forcefully entered the room.

Simultaneously, he closed the door with a firm push.

He seemed to have drunk quite a lot; the scent of alcohol hit her as he neared, and his gaze seemed a bit off.

Forced to take a step back, Xin Li asked, “What are you doing?”

Xie Yuran stared deeply into her eyes as he grasped her shoulder and pressed her against the wall of the door. He lowered his head and asked, “Are you with Zhou Zeyan?”

His scorching breath puffed onto her forehead as if it could invade her breath at any moment. Xin Li felt inexplicably nervous and grabbed his arm before pushing him away. “We don’t have any relationship; why do you care who I’m with?”

“We don’t have any relationship?”

Xie Yuran’s breath intensified, pressing her even tighter against the wall, and his gaze became even more fervent.

“Do you really think there’s any?”

Her back against the wall, Xin Li met his gaze. “Then tell me, what’s our relationship?”

Xie Yuran gazed into her eyes before smiling. “Are you denying that we slept together?”

Xin Li: “…….”

Xin Li blushed unexpectedly at his sudden comment. She instinctively retorted, “Who’s denying that we slept together?”

Xie Yuran added, “You.”

“…….”

Xin Li choked for a moment, pushing him with force. “That was your choice; I didn’t force you or tie you up!”

She pushed him a few times, finally breaking free from his restraint and steadying herself against the wall.

Xie Yuran loosened his grip, not pressing any further, and just stared at her silently. The way he was looking at her resembled that of someone looking at a woman who played with his feelings and then abandoned him.

Under his scrutiny, Xin Li couldn’t help but feel a bit guilty. “Unless you wanted me to take responsibility?”

Xie Yuran counter-asked, “What if I do?”

Xin Li: “……”

Xin Li was speechless. Her hands curled into fists, remaining silent for a moment before the emotions she had been holding back for a longtime finally erupted. “Xie Yuran, if you don’t like me, what’s the point of all this?

Xie Yuran stared at her and said, “Who said I don’t like you?

“……..?”

Xin Li was taken aback.

Xie Yuran approached her step by step, casting a shadow that enveloped her. 

He stopped in front of her, gazing into her eyes and saying, “If I didn’t like you, I wouldn’t have come here tonight.”

Xin Li met his deep gaze, and her heart skipped a beat. The long-lost palpitations instantly awakened.

Pressed against the wall behind her, she instinctively held her breath as if she could hear the frantic beating of her heart.

Is he… drunk?

Xie Yuran held her shoulders, and where his fingers touched, warmth spread.

“Xiao Li, can you stop avoiding me?” he whispered.

His sudden confession left Xin Li’s hands hanging at her sides, unsure of what to do.

She felt that she couldn’t succumb so quickly. Trying to steady her mind, she raised her chin and deliberately brought up past issues, “Didn’t you say we weren’t suitable?”

“……..”

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Upon returning home from the hospital, Xin Li felt somewhat absentminded and had little appetite.

At the dining table, Xu Wanqin brought up the topic of matchmaking again, suggesting that Xin Li prepare to meet Zhou Zeyan, the second young master of the Zhou family.

Xin Li, feeling increasingly unable to eat, said irritatedly, “Mom, I don’t want to talk about this right now.”

As soon as she said that, Xin Yuanhong, sitting at the head of the table, suddenly erupted in anger. “You don’t want to talk about it now, then when do you want to talk about it?”

The harsh remark from Xin Yuanhong caught Xin Li off guard. He had always spoiled her since she was little, rarely scolding her like this. She felt a twitch in her nose.

Seeing the situation, Xu Wanqin quickly intervened and said gently, “Xiao Li, listen to Mom. Just meet him first…”

Xin Li said nothing, remaining silent for a moment before putting down her bowl and spoon, saying, “I’m full,” and quickly went upstairs to her room. 

Xin Yuanhong stayed glum, and he didn’t look pleased. Xu Wanqin sighed and said, “Don’t yell at her now. I’ll go talk to her.”

Xu Wanqin went upstairs and knocked on Xin Li’s door. “Xiao Li?”

There was no response from inside.

Xu Wanqin gripped the doorknob and twisted it.

The door wasn’t locked, and with a push, it swung open. Xin Li was sitting on the edge of her bed, staring at her phone.

Xu Wanqin walked over and sat beside her before sighing and saying concernedly, “Xiao Li, it’s not that we want to force you. You’re not little anymore. You can’t always be so willful. You should consider the family…”

Xin Li parted her lips, wanting to say something, but seeing Xu Wanqin’s worried expression, the words stopped at her throat.

Although she was accustomed to being willful, there were some truths that she understood. Life wasn’t always about living freely; there were responsibilities to bear.

Xu Wanqin held her hand, saying gently, “Meet that kid from the Zhou family first. Who knows, you might just hit it off?”

Looking down, Xin Li remained silent for a while before saying, “Mom, let me think about it.”

Seeing signs of her wavering, Xu Wanqin didn’t press further. She embraced Xin Li’s shoulder and said, “Alright, go to bed early, and don’t stay up late.”

Xu Wanqin left her room, closing the door behind her.

Xin Li sat inside her room, and for some reason, she suddenly thought of Xie Yuran.

After hesitating for a while, she dug out his number and dialed.

The call connected promptly.

“Have you gone back yet?”

Xin Li felt a bit uneasy as she spoke.

Her call took Xie Yuran by surprise. After a pause, he responded, “I’m on my way back.”

“Didn’t you say you wanted to talk?”

Xin Li pursed her lips. “Give me your address. I’ll come over.”

Xie Yuran was taken aback for a bit before giving her his address.

Hanging up the call, Xin Li grabbed her purse and left her room.

Just as she went downstairs, she ran into Xu Wanqin. Seeing her with a purse, Xu Wanqin asked curiously, “It’s so late; where are you going?”

Xin Li, wrapping a scarf around her neck, replied, “I have something to attend to, made plans with someone.”

Worried that Xin Li might throw a tantrum again, Xu Wanqin didn’t press further and told Xin Yu at the side, “If you have time, escort your sister.”

Xin Li immediately refused, “No need, I can go by myself.”

Xu Wanqin frowned. “It’s late, going alone isn’t safe.”

“Really, I’ll be back in no time!”

Before Xu Wanqin could nag even more, Xin Li changed her shoes and swiftly ran out of the house.

Outside, the night had fallen, and a dense ink-like darkness pressed down, obscuring any sight of stars. Only the faint glimmer of distant lights swayed gently.

A beam of light cut through the night as they entered the residential area.

The chauffeur parked the car and turned to look at the back seat.

Xie Yuran opened his eyes and massaged his temples before getting out of the car.

Not even after walking two steps, he didn’t expect to spot a person standing near a tree ahead.

It was a cold winter night, and the air seemed to have a layer of frost. Zhang Muqing hugged herself, walking back and forth as if she had been waiting for a long time.

“Yuran!”

Seeing Xie Yuran, she hurriedly ran over and stood in front of him.

Xie Yuran’s faint smile disappeared in an instant as he looked at her. “Why are you here?”

Zhang Muqing’s fingers were frozen from the cold, and she looked a bit weary. “I called you, but you refused to answer, so I had to come here to wait for you.”

Xie Yuran remained silent for a few seconds before asking, “What do you want?”

A gust of wind passed by, causing Zhang Muqing to shiver. She forced a smile and softened her voice, “Can we go upstairs and talk?”

Xie Yuran glanced at his watch and said, “It’s too late, not convenient. Whatever you have to say, say it here.”

Zhang Muqing was taken aback, her complexion turning paler. She found it hard to believe and said, “Yuran, even you…”

Xie Yuran remained calm. “I know why you came; I can’t help you.”

After he said that, he continued walking forward.

Just as they were about to pass by each other, Zhang Muqing completely panicked. She grabbed his arm pleadingly. “Yuran, don’t go…”

She held onto him tightly, tears welling up in her eyes.

“Consider it a favor for me, please? I really have no other options…”

Xie Yuran halted in his steps but didn’t look at her. Instead, he gazed ahead, seemingly lost in thought.

Seeing him appear to be moved, Zhang Muqing struck while the iron was hot, “I know you have feelings for me, right? Yuran, remember, in the past…”

The night was dark, and a Bentley was parked not far away.

Through the car window, Xin Li could see the intertwined figures near the tree.

At a distance, she couldn’t hear their conversation, but she could see Zhang Muqing holding onto Xie Yuran’s arm, and he didn’t shake her off.

What a perfect scene of a melodramatic love; she came just in time.

After being perplexed for so long, enduring the pressure from her family, she finally made up her mind to give him another chance. Now, it seemed like a complete joke.

Fury surged in her heart. Xin Li turned back and gripped the steering wheel tightly before restarting the car.

Perhaps sensing something, Xie Yuran suddenly turned around and looked in her direction.

Seeing the figure inside the car, his expression changed abruptly. He hurriedly pushed Zhang Muqing aside and walked briskly toward the car.

Unfortunately, Xin Li had already driven away, and he attempted to chase after her, but it was futile. He was left with exhaust fumes in his face.

Behind him, Zhang Muqing persisted and caught up, calling out, “Yuran…”

As she called out, she was interrupted by the look in Xie Yuran’s eyes.

He looked at her and said, “Some things are better left in the past. There’s no need to bring them up again. You knew very well what intentions you had back then.”

Xie Yuran paused for a moment before continuing, “Zhang Junfeng raised you all these years, treating you as a tool for climbing the social ladder. In the past, you could argue that you had no choice. But what about now?”

Zhang Muqing seemed to be struck in a sensitive spot, and her face turned pale instantly.

Xie Yuran ignored her and turned around, taking out his phone to call Xin Li.

With the last bit of hope shattered, Zhang Muqing looked at his back and smirked self-mockingly before turning around to leave the residential area, looking disheveled. 

……

Along the long road, lights zoomed past as Xin Li drove faster than when she came. 

Her phone, thrown to the side, vibrated continuously, yet she acted as if she didn’t hear it.

Xu Wanqin’s words, coupled with the scene from earlier, replayed in her mind, causing a splitting headache.

Passing through a particular four-way intersection, she nearly ran a red light due to her distraction. After braking, she grabbed her phone and swiftly turned it off.

Upon reaching home, she parked the car in the garden, sitting in the driver’s seat in a daze, reflecting on everything since she met Xie Yuran.

Since meeting him, she felt like she had changed, no longer herself.

Why did I like him so much?

To the point of being a bother, giving up even my dignity. 

The shadows of the trees cast gentle sways on the car window.

After a while, Xin Li got out of the car and walked into the living room.

Xin Yuanhong and Xu Wanqin were already asleep, and it was quiet all around. She went upstairs and bumped into Xin Yu, who was coming out of the study.

Xin Li called out, “Ge,” looking a bit listless.

Looking at her, Xin Yu asked, “Did you go find Xie Yuran?”

Surprised, Xin Li blurted out, “How did you know?”

Xin Yu glanced at her meaningfully… Your little tricks could easily be seen through.

Xin Li silently complained: You must be a mind reader.

Seeing her looking defeated, Xin Yu asked again, “Judging by your appearance, rejected again?”

Xin Li: “……..”

Life is already hard as it is; can’t you be a bit more tactful? 

Are you even my real brother?

Xin Li felt a sense of mockery and angrily said, “No, it’s me who doesn’t wanna deal with him this time, and I won’t in the future either!”

Xin Yu glanced at her with obvious skepticism, as if saying, “Really?”

Xin Li felt a bit guilty and insisted, “This time, I mean it! I won’t bother with him anymore!”

Xin Yu didn’t express whether he believed her or not. He walked to her side and changed the topic, saying, “The one our parents picked for you, Zhou Zeyan, I know him. He’s not bad; you can meet him first.”

Xin Li’s anger instantly subsided and fell silent. Xin Yu had always spoiled her, and if he said someone was not bad, he wouldn’t dig a hole for her to fall into.

Perhaps she should step back and try getting to know someone else.

“If you don’t like him after meeting, then we’ll find another one.”

Xin Li: “Are you choosing a consort? If you don’t like one, just find another?”

Xin Yu continued, “If you really want to choose a consort, I will help you too.”

Xin Li chuckled, her nose twitching a bit.

Xin Yu patted her head gently and said, “Alright, go to bed early. Don’t frown all day. If he doesn’t like you, there naturally will be someone else who does.”

“En.”

Xin Li nodded before entering her room.

……

That night, Xin Li practically didn’t sleep at all, and when she woke up the next day, she was muddle-headed.

She picked up her phone and turned it on, noticing the missed calls.

Seeing the name on the screen, she stared at it for a while before throwing her phone aside. As she was about to get up, another call came in.

It was still from Xie Yuran.

This time, Xin Li didn’t decline the call and answered it.

She brought the phone to her ear, remaining silent.

After a brief silence, Xie Yuran finally spoke, “Xiao Li, what happened last night wasn’t what you saw…”

Xin Li interrupted him, “You don’t need to explain to me. We didn’t have much of a relationship anyway. It’s been me persistently pursuing you. Whoever you like and want to be with is your choice…”

Hearing the coldness in her words, Xie Yuran finally felt a sense of urgency. “Xiao Li…”

“Don’t worry, I won’t disturb you anymore.”

After saying that, she abruptly hung up the call.

To prevent herself from changing her mind, she decisively blocked all of his contacts.

After blocking him, she took a deep breath and threw her phone aside before getting up to freshen herself.

When she came downstairs, Xin Yuanhong and Xin Yu had already left, and only Xu Wanqin was in the living room.

Seeing her come down, Xu Wanqin cleared her throat and said, “Up already?”

Thinking about her resolution just now, Xin Li hesitated for a moment before saying, “Mom, I agree to the blind date. I’ll meet Zhou Zeyan.”

Surprised that she agreed so quickly, Xu Wanqin happily pulled her over and said with a smile, “It’s good that you’ve come around. There’s no harm in meeting him.”

Xin Li barely forced a smile.

Xin Li and Zhou Zeyan agreed to meet at a restaurant on a Saturday afternoon.

Before the meeting, Xu Wanqin had sent Xin Li a photo of Zhou Zeyan to avoid any confusion like last time.

Xin Li arrived at the restaurant punctually and immediately spotted the man sitting by the window.

He looked at his watch as if he had been waiting for a long time.

Xin Li hurriedly walked over. “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting.”

Zhou Zeyan looked up and smiled. “No worries; I just arrived too.”

His appearance resembled Xin Yu’s, with a gentle and polite smile that easily created a favorable impression.

Xin Li’s resistance to this blind date lessened a bit as she put down her purse and took her seat.

Zhou Zeyan called the server over and asked her, “What would you like to eat?”

Xin Li politely smiled and ordered two dishes she liked.

As Xin Yu mentioned, Zhou Zeyan was a gentleman who knew how to take care of a girl. After the dishes were served, the two of them chatted while eating, and the atmosphere was not as awkward.

However, Xin Li felt that it was a bit dull, perhaps because she hadn’t completely moved on from Xie Yuran.

After lunch, Zhou Zeyan offered to drive her home. Suddenly, he asked, “Did you not want to come today?”

Xin Li was taken aback, momentarily unsure of how to respond. She could only say, “I’m sorry…”

Zhou Zeyan, understandingly, smiled and said, “It’s okay. I’m not in a hurry for marriage. If you’re not ready, we can be friends first. We can discuss the future later.”

Becoming friends with someone like him was indeed a comforting prospect. Xin Li finally showed a genuine smile and agreed, saying, “Okay.”

And so, Xin Li and Zhou Zeyan reached a mutual agreement to be just friends for now, dealing with their respective parents.

Time passed quickly, and before they knew it, the Spring Festival was over. On a certain day in mid-March, as Xin Li left her studio, she suddenly noticed a familiar car parked by the road. 

The car door opened, and Xie Yuran stepped out, looking at her.

Xin Li paused in her steps. It had been over three months since she had blocked him, and they hadn’t seen each other since. 

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Epilogue 9: Xin Li & Xie Yuran

The person ringing the doorbell was the delivery man. Xin Li thanked them as she opened the door and took the breakfast before returning inside.

She placed the breakfast directly on the coffee table and sat on the sofa before eating.

From the time she woke up until now, she hadn’t said a word to Xie Yuran. She had only ordered breakfast for herself, treating him as if he were invisible. 

In contrast to her calmness, Xie Yuran felt increasingly uneasy. He stood there watching her for a while before finally sitting down beside her.

“Xiao Li.”

He called her name.

Xin Li stopped in her movement, a flicker flashed through her eyes. 

She looked up. “Why haven’t you left yet?”

Remembering her words from before, Xie Yuran looked into her eyes and said, “Let’s give it a try.”

Give it a try?

Xin Li was momentarily stunned. After confirming she didn’t hear it wrong, she raised an eyebrow. “What, are you trying to take responsibility?”

Her indifference made Xie Yuran frown.

Before he could speak, Xin Li added, “If you’re taking responsibility for me, what about Zhang Muqing?”

Xie Yuran was taken aback, surprised that she knew about him and Zhang Muqing.

Xin Li caught his reaction, and she felt like a sharp blade had been thrust into her heart. 

Initially, she held a glimmer of hope, thinking perhaps the rumors were wrong. But now, it seemed like her friend didn’t lie to her; he did have feelings for Zhang Muqing.

Unable to continue eating breakfast, Xin Li threw the remaining food into the trash and stood up, saying, “We both drank too much last night; there’s nothing to take responsibility for. You can leave.”

Xie Yuran grabbed her wrist, frowning. “You…”

Before he could say another word, his phone suddenly rang.

He picked up his phone and glanced at the caller ID before answering the call.

After picking up the call, Xie Yuran’s expression gradually became solemn. Without delay, Xin Li broke free from him and headed to her room.

After a brief exchange on the phone, Xie Yuran hung up the call and said to her retreating figure, “I have an urgent matter to tend to. I’ll come over tonight, and we can talk things through.”

Xin Li acted as if she didn’t hear him and just entered her room.

Soon, the sound of footsteps faded away, and Xie Yuran left her condo.

Hearing the door opening and closing Xin Li paused for a moment and looked back.

She walked to the side of the bed and angrily lifted the disheveled sheets, muttering, “Who cares if you take responsibility!”

Her head was still throbbing. She changed the bedsheets and got back into bed, deciding to catch up on some sleep.

In the midst of her nap, her phone on the nightstand started ringing and vibrating incessantly.

At first, Xin Li ignored it, but after a while of pestering, she reluctantly reached out to grab her phone.

It was a call from Xin Yu.

“Hey, bro.”

Wrapped in the blanket, she uttered hoarsely. 

“Still not up? Mom’s not feeling well; she’s asking you to come home.”

Upon hearing this, Xin Li instantly woke up and sat up, asking, “What happened?”

Xin Yu replied, “Nothing serious, just caught a chill. Mom wants you to come home and keep her company.”

Xin Li breathed a sigh of relief and said, “I’ll go back this afternoon.”

Uncharacteristically compliant of her, Xin Yu asked, “Do you want me to pick you up?”

Xin Li replied, “No need, I have to stop by the studio later.”

After hanging up the call, Xin Li went back to lying in bed for a while before finally getting up and leaving the condo.

She first drove to the studio, and around 5:00 p.m., she headed back to the Xin family residence. 

Upon seeing Xin Li, Xu Wanqin started to nag at her out of habit. Perhaps fearing that Xin Li might leave again in anger, she didn’t bring up Xin Li’s important life matter and only had her move back home for a while. 

Xin Li, not particularly eager to face Xie Yuran, agreed.

That night, sure enough, Xie Yuran called her.

Having just finished dinner and chatting with Xu Wanqin, Xin Li hesitated briefly when she saw the incoming call before deciding to hang up directly.

Not even two minutes later, Xie Yuran called again.

Xin Li continued to reject his call, her expression somewhat peculiar. 

Xu Wanqin glanced at Xin Li’s phone screen and asked curiously, “Whose call is it? Why aren’t you answering?”

Xin Li replied, “Nobody important, just someone I don’t like.”

Xu Wanqin: “Why not block them then?”

Xin Li hesitated for a moment then said, “I’ll do it later.”

Blocking needs the right timing?

Xu Wanqin sensed something was amiss and looked at her suspiciously, “Xiao Li, are you secretly dating someone?”

Xin Li instinctively denied, “No.”

However, Xu Wanqin wasn’t entirely convinced. Before she could dig deeper, Xin Li yawned and said, “Mom, I’m a bit tired today. I’m going to bed.”

With that, she went upstairs with her phone.

Xu Wanqin: “…….”

Back in her room, Xin Li sat on her bed, and a new unread message appeared on her phone. Xie Yuran had switched to sending a message on WeChat.

Xie Yuran: “I’m outside your door; can you open it?”

Xin Li: “I’m not at my condo, go back.”

Xie Yuran: “Where are you? I’ll come over.”

Holding her phone, Xin Li paused for a moment before replying, “I’ve returned home.”

She didn’t believe that he would dare to come find her at the Xin family residence. 

As expected, the other end went silent for a few seconds before he sent over another message, “Answer the phone.”

Xin Li typed, “I already made it clear this morning. I drank too much last night. You don’t need to take responsibility.”

She liked him, but it wasn’t to the extent of resorting to such tactics. Who knew if he would regret it once he calmed down in a couple of days?

Xie Yuran stood outside her condo, looking at the messages on his phone, frowning. He couldn’t understand the change in her attitude. Just recently, she seemed entirely focused on pursuing him.

After a while, just when Xin Li thought he had given up, a new message was sent over, “Didn’t you say that we won’t know if we’re suitable until we give it a try before? Let’s give it a try.”

Seeing this message, Xin Li felt inexplicably irked. Give it a try, not giving it a try; did he think everything revolved around him? 

What did he take me for?

She looked down and quickly typed a message.

A moment later, Xie Yuran received two messages…

Xin Li: “We already tried last night, and we’re not suitable.”

Xin Li: “Your skills are just too poor!”

Xie Yuran: “……..”

Xie Yuran’s expression immediately darkened, and the veins on his forehead twitched.

He clenched his phone tightly, choosing not to reply, and briskly went downstairs.

Meanwhile, Xin Li imagined his furious reaction and couldn’t help but laugh while lying back on the bed. 

……

Perhaps the impact of Xin Li’s final words was so strong that in the following few days, Xie Yuran didn’t contact her again.

Xin Li also didn’t reach out to him, obediently staying at home to accompany Xu Wanqin. 

As the season changed to winter, the weather grew colder day by day.

Not long after, there was breaking news from the Xie family… Xie Shuo regained his vision!

Xin Li heard this news from her dad, Xin Yuanhong.

The news was breaking, coming out of nowhere, and like everyone else, Xin Li found it a bit hard to believe.

She instinctively took out her phone and opened Xie Yuran’s WeChat, wanting to confirm if the news was true or not. However, upon seeing their last conversation, she hastily restrained herself.

Everything had been made clear in their previous conversation. It would be awkward to reach out to him at a time like this.

While lost in thought, Xin Yu knocked on her door. “Ready to go yet?”

Xin Li snapped out of her thoughts, saying, “Wait a sec.”

She grabbed a purse from her closet and hastily went outside. “Let’s go.”

These past few days, her stomach hadn’t been feeling well, so she planned to go to the hospital for a checkup.

They went downstairs, and Xin Yu drove her to the hospital.

On the way, Xin Li curiously asked, “Ge, is it true that Xie Shuo regained his vision?”

Xin Yu glanced at her. “Why are you suddenly so interested in him?”

Xin Li smiled. “Just curious.”

Xin Yu retracted his gaze, focusing on the road ahead, and said insipidly, “It should be true.”

Xin Li then asked, “Is the news about the Zhang family also true?”

Simultaneously with the news about Xie Shuo regaining his vision, there was another breaking news… The Vice Chairman of the Xie Group, Zhang Junfeng, who was also Zhang Muqing’s foster father, was arrested on charges of embezzlement, leaking trade secrets, and hiring someone to cause a car accident.

Due to this, the Zhang family collapsed and disappeared from the list of elite families in the city.

Xin Yu glanced at her again and replied, “En.”

Xin Li felt a bit perplexed, so she didn’t continue asking further.

The Zhang family had fallen, and because of such serious charges. Was there still even a chance for Zhang Muqing and Xie Yuran?

Lost in her thoughts, Xin Li arrived at the hospital and did a check-up. After getting her results, she walked toward the waiting area when she suddenly spotted a familiar figure.

Xie Yuran was standing not far away, gazing at her. He looked weary, and his expression wasn’t great.

Xin Li was taken aback, involuntarily stopping in her tracks.

In the hospital corridor, people hurried back and forth. Every person’s face carried an expression of sorrow, joy, or indifference, all different from one another. 

The two stood a distance apart, silently locking eyes for a few seconds.

In the end, Xin Li looked away first, turning to go in another direction.

Xie Yuran stared at her retreating figure and the medical report in her hand, his expression inscrutable.

For some reason, he suddenly quickened his pace and grabbed her wrist.

Xin Li turned back, seeing Xie Yuran’s displeased expression.

“What are you doing?”

The warmth of the wrist in his hand felt warm, a little too slender. In less than a month, she seemed to have lost a lot of weight.

Xie Yuran loosened his grip slightly and asked, “What happened to you?”

What happened?

Seeing the concern on his face, Xin Li suddenly felt a burst of anger. Since that day, he hadn’t reached out to her at all.

She had told him he didn’t need to take responsibility, and he really didn’t even try to press on further.

If he really cared, why hadn’t he done something sooner?

She raised her chin slightly and said mockingly, “What happened to me? What does it have to do with you?”

Curious glances from the people around prompted Xie Yuran to frown and pull her into a nearby emergency exit.

“Are you not feeling well?”

He glanced at the medical report in her hand, focusing on her abdomen, his expression peculiar. 

“I told you, it’s none of your business…”

Xin Li twisted her wrist, trying to free herself from his grasp. Inadvertently catching his gaze, she suddenly realized what he might be thinking. She widened her eyes, looking at him in shock. “You don’t think I’m pregnant with your child, do you?”

Seeing her surprised expression, Xie Yuran felt like she might say, “With your skills, how is that even possible?” any second. His face soured slightly.

Xin Li couldn’t help laughing, as if she had just heard a hilarious joke. 

“You’re really good at letting your imagination run wild, huh?”

Xie Yuran’s expression became even more glum.

“My stomach isn’t feeling well, so I came to do a check-up. It has nothing to do with me being pregnant.”

Xin Li suppressed her laughter and glanced at him speechlessly. “Can I go now?”

However, Xie Yuran continued to hold her wrist tightly, unwilling to let go.

Thinking that he didn’t believe her, Xin Li directly handed the medical report to him, saying, “It’s true. If you don’t believe me, take a look yourself.”

Taking the report, Xie Yuran skimmed through it, and indeed, it was just a regular gastrointestinal examination unrelated to pregnancy.

“I told you not to overthink…”

Taking the report back from his hands, Xin Li looked at him once more, then turned around and left without hesitation, as if she had truly detached herself from her feelings, without a trace of attachment for him.

Xie Yuran stood still for a long time, unmoving.

Xin Li turned around the corner, walking to the waiting area. Her long eyelashes drooped slightly, and the fingers that pinched the medical report turned pale.

A few steps away, Xin Yu had his back to her, answering a call.

Sensing her approach, Xin Yu said a few more words to the other end before hanging up the call, smiling lovingly at her.

“Done with the check-up?”

Xin Li nodded and handed him the report.

After Xin Yu carefully examined the report and found no major issues, he sternly reprimanded her and reminded her to eat meals on time.

Xin Li rolled her eyes. “Got it.”

They then walked to the elevator, waiting for the doors to open along with others.

Suddenly, Xin Li’s phone in her purse rang. Checking it, she saw the familiar nickname on the screen.

She paused for a moment before declining the call.

As if sensing something, she turned around and saw Xie Yuran standing at the corner of the corridor, looking at her while holding his phone.

Xin Li pursed her lips, her heart wavering a little.

She shifted slightly, attempting to block Xin Yu’s line of sight.

However, this move seemed to be counterproductive as when Xin Yu looked up, he also spotted Xie Yuran.

Turning to Xin Li, he frowned. “You’re still in contact with him?”

Xin Li shook her head hurriedly, feeling a bit guilty. “No, today was just a coincidence, meeting by chance.”

Xin Yu relaxed a bit. “If you want to end it, end it cleanly. Don’t muddy the waters.”

Amid their conversation, the elevator doors opened, and Xin Yu wrapped his arm around her shoulder, guiding her into the elevator. 

Xin Li couldn’t resist his strength and could only cast one last glance at Xie Yuran before the elevator doors blocked their view.

Xie Yuran watched her leave, standing still for a while, not pursuing after her. He then turned around and headed to Xie Baiyan’s hospital room.

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Epilogue 8: Xin Li & Xie Yuran

In October, Zhang Muqing really did return to the country.

The Zhang family hosted a banquet for her, and both brothers from the Xie family were among the invitees.

Since losing his sight, Xie Shuo had been living reclusively, rarely appearing in public, and he had no intention of attending. Therefore, Xie Yuran was going alone.

Having heard the news from her brother, Xin Li spent a restless night feeling frustrated.

Picking up her phone, she opened and exited her chat with Xie Yuran several times.

She strongly wanted to send him an unreasonable message, commanding him not to go, but she was acutely aware that she didn’t have that right.

These days, his tolerance toward her was nothing more than just using her to pass the time, just playing with her.

Ultimately, she threw her phone away and punched her pillow for a while to vent, forcing herself to forget about it.

The next day, Xin Yu came to visit her. Seeing her looking downcast, he couldn’t help but frown and advised, “Since he’s not interested in you, don’t delude yourself into approaching him.”

Hearing these words, Xin Li became even more depressed. She also knew that what her brother said was correct, and she should cut her losses in time to save face but she was not reconciled.

……

Not long after the banquet at the Zhang family, the Xie family also hosted one—Xie Baiyan’s birthday celebration.

Due to Xie Shuo’s blindness, this birthday banquet was relatively low-key with only a few invited guests.

Originally, Xin Li was not on the guest list and had little interest in attending. However, upon hearing that Zhang Muqing would be there, her interest sparked, and she asked Xin Yuanhong to ask for an invitation for her.

It had been a while since she and Xie Yuran had seen each other. They had just been talking through the internet lately. Even if they were to sever ties completely, they needed to clarify things face to face.

Xin Yuanhong thought she just wanted to attend the banquet for fun, so he didn’t ask further.

On the day of the banquet, Xin Li hired a professional makeup artist and spent four to five hours getting ready. She didn’t go until she was satisfied with her appearance. 

Inside the banquet hall, it was brightly lit as if it were daytime. As soon as Xin Li entered, she spotted Zhang Muqing. Compared to a year ago, she hadn’t changed much, still maintaining that dignified and elegant appearance. 

Besides Zhang Muqing, Xin Li also spotted Xie Shuo’s wife, Ye An. After Xie Shuo became blind and had limited mobility, the Xie family arranged a marriage for him—someone who could take care of him closely.

The wife of Xie Shuo was quite stunning, and Xin Li couldn’t help but look a few times at her.

Initially, Zhang Muqing was talking to Xie Shuo, but Xie Yuran suddenly walked over, interrupting them and said something to Zhang Muqing with a smile.

Xie Shuo and Ye An then left, heading to a corner to rest.

Holding a crystal glass, Xin Li watched the two of them, who were chatting with a smile under the lights, from a distance. A lump formed in her heart, and she nearly crushed the glass in her hand.

She couldn’t understand what was so special about that woman that made him so devoted to her.

Then again, wasn’t she just another version of him?

She clearly knew the outcome but foolishly made the same mistake over and over again.

After staring at the two of them for a while, she turned away and walked to the side, unwilling to subject herself to further pain.

However, after just a few steps, she accidentally bumped into Ye An, who was coming from the other direction. The red wine in her glass spilled out, staining her gown. 

“I’m sorry…”

Xin Li quickly apologized.

Fortunately, Ye An had a good temper and didn’t get angry. Xin Li accompanied her upstairs to change her gown, chatting casually along the way.

When she came back downstairs, Xie Yuran finally finished catching up with Zhang Muqing and went over to Xie Baiyan’s side to help entertain the guests. 

Xin Li circled around in the crowd and found his figure. She grabbed another glass of wine and leaned against a table, sipping it slowly.

Inside the crystal glass, the red wine rippled, reflecting a shimmering light.

After a while, she saw Ye An coming down from upstairs alone. Feeling bored, Xin Li took the initiative to strike up a conversation with her.

The wine in her glass gradually diminished, and Xin Li began to feel a bit drunk. The scene in front of her became somewhat blurry.

Thus, she didn’t continue chatting with Ye An. Stepping on her high heels, she swayed through the crowd toward where Xie Yuran was.

Before she could get close, Xie Yuran’s gaze fell on her, and he paused.

As Xin Li walked up to him and brushed past him, she pretended to accidentally bump into him. 

Xie Yuran raised his hand and grabbed her arm.

Taking advantage of the situation, Xin Li leaned in close to his ear and whispered, “I’ll wait for you upstairs.”

After saying that, she glanced at him meaningfully before she continued walking, heading upstairs.

Xie Yuran watched her retreating figure. Not long after, he also excused himself from the lively crowd, quietly making his way upstairs.

Xin Li was waiting for him on the balcony. Tonight, she wore a black, off-the-shoulder dress. The cool night breeze helped sober her up a bit.

Seeing him arrive so quickly, Xin Li was somewhat surprised. She thought he might ignore her or delay it for a while. 

Xie Yuran approached her, his gaze sweeping over her exposed shoulders, landing on her flushed face.

“Not feeling well? Do you need to go to a room to rest for a while?”

He asked, adopting a caring host’s demeanor. 

Xin Li looked at him, and the scene of him chatting and laughing with Zhang Muqing at first flashed across her mind, and her mood instantly soured.

She indeed wasn’t feeling well, but it wasn’t physical; it was emotional.

“No need.”

As soon as she spoke, she sneezed.

Xie Yuran glanced at her partially exposed shoulders and collarbone again, saying gently, “It’s cold at night. Wear more clothes and be careful not to catch a cold.”

Leaning back against the railing, Xin Li smiled and raised an eyebrow. “You’re this concerned about me?”

Xie Yuran didn’t respond, just looking at her.

The balcony was dimly lit, making his eyes appear much deeper than usual.

“Why don’t you ask me why I called you up here?”

Seeing him silent, Xin Li asked.

Xie Yuran smiled slightly, following her lead, “Why did you call me up here?”

Looking at him slightly drunkenly, Xin Li smirked., “Guess?”

Before he could react, she suddenly lunged forward and pressed him into the nearby corner. Gripping onto his shoulders, she kissed him.  

Her movements were too abrupt, and she almost tumbled onto him. Taking a few steps back, Xie Yuran instinctively held her waist, preventing her from falling.

Their lips met, and the air grew tense in the darkness. 

Xin Li gripped him, kissing him without any restraint as if venting her frustration.

The balcony directly faced the living room, and the curtains were not drawn. If someone passed by, they would be able to see what was going on. 

Coincidentally, at that moment, faint footsteps sounded from the direction of the living room. Xie Yuran’s expression changed slightly. He gripped her arm and sternly whispered before pushing her apart. 

Hearing the footsteps as well, Xin Li let go of him and peeked inside. She only caught a glimpse of a slender figure disappearing around the corner of the hallway.

After recognizing the person in a split second, Xin Li withdrew her gaze and looked back at Xie Yuran. Seeing his nervous expression, she inexplicably felt pleased.

She raised her chin proactively and teased, “What? Afraid of being seen?”

Xie Yuran glanced at her., “Aren’t you afraid?”

Xin Li felt a hint of guilt, but she quickly suppressed it and said, “What do I have to be afraid of?”

After all, her mother, Mrs. Xu, wasn’t around.

Meeting her fearless gaze, Xie Yuran’s expression changed slightly. There seemed to be a lingering taste of her on his lips, and the warm sensation persisted.

Feeling a rising heat, he realized that he, too, was pretty drunk. 

Thinking he might leave angrily, Xin Li was surprised when he reached out to support her instead. “Let me take you to a room to rest.”

Xin Li had a bit too much to drink and was feeling a bit tipsy. She reached out and held onto his arm instead. “No need, just take me home.”

Xie Yuran turned his head slightly.

For her to come and attend the banquet, there should be a chauffeur from home to pick her up, and there was no need for him to send her back.

However, Xin Li was determined to have him take her back, gripping onto his arm with an expression of “if you don’t take me home, I won’t let go.”

He had experienced her willful, heiress temper before. After a few seconds of locking eyes with her, Xie Yuran ultimately chose to compromise. 

He went downstairs and exchanged a few words with Xie Baiyan before calling his chauffeur over and leaving with her. 

Throughout the ride, Xin Li leaned on him, surprisingly quiet, leaving him curious about what might be on her mind.

Xie Yuran escorted her back into her condo. Seeing that she was pretty drunk, he decided to help her into her bedroom.

The lights suddenly turned on, a bit too glaring.

He helped her lay down on the bed and pulled the blanket over her before saying softly, “Rest well. I’ll be leaving first.”

As he tried to leave, Xin Li unexpectedly embraced him from behind. “Don’t go.”

Xie Yuran was taken aback.

Xin Li wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her chin on his shoulder, and muttered, “What exactly do you mean? If you don’t like me, why do you care so much about me?”

Xie Yuran turned around and saw her hazy gaze, the corners of her eyes slightly tinged with red.

“Say something!”

She grabbed his tie and pulled it forcefully. “Explain yourself… Are you doing this on purpose…”

She had originally decided to give up, but he chose to confuse her again.

Xie Yuran looked down, gazing at her intently. Before he could respond, his lips were suddenly sealed. 

Xin Li wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him again. Afraid that he might push her away, she used a considerable amount of force.

A faint fragrance mixed with the scent of alcohol invaded the space between their lips, gradually stirring the dormant desires.

Xie Yuran encircled her waist, and before he could make a move, she pushed him down onto the bed; the fabric of their clothes was in disarray.

The soft and still lighting cast reflections of their tangled and disheveled figures…

……

For Xin Li, the experience of this night was not that good, and one might even describe it as quite terrible.

Perhaps it was because both of them were drunk. 

The next day, Xin Li woke up early with her head throbbing and her body aching. 

Xie Yuran lay beside her, eyes closed, still asleep.

When he was asleep, his features looked even more handsome. A few strands of black hair lightly rested on his forehead, giving him a somewhat girlish look—innocent and harmless, making it hard to blame him. 

Xin Li turned around and looked at him, recalling the events of last night with a myriad of emotions. 

Their clothes were scattered on the floor in a disheveled mess.

She got up quietly and picked up the fallen clothes before wearing them and entering the bathroom to freshen up.

The sound of running water woke up the person still in bed. When Xin Li came out of the bathroom, Xie Yuran had already put on his clothes and was sitting at the edge of the bed. 

His white shirt hung loosely on him, untucked. His collar was open, revealing the dubious hickeys on his collarbone and chest. 

With a towel wrapped around her body, Xin Li paused in her steps and glanced at him before continuing onward to her closet to get dressed. 

They were both adults, and there was nothing to make a fuss about regarding such matters, especially since she had initiated it last night.

If one were to be particular, she had also made a loss.

The sunlight outside climbed onto the windowsill, casting a bright glow behind her. Xie Yuran watched her enter the closet before getting up to go to the bathroom, too.

There were no clothes for him to change into, so he could only take a quick shower.

After he finished showering, the bedroom was empty. He left the room and found Xin Li in the living room.

She was lying on the sofa, engrossed on her phone.

Xie Yuran walked over and stopped in front of her. He was just about to say something when the doorbell suddenly rang. 

Xin Li’s eyes lit up, and she quickly got up, slipping on her slippers as she headed toward the door.

As she took the first step, Xie Yuran noticed that her posture seemed a bit awkward as if she was not entirely comfortable.

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