Zhan had just walked Yibo out of the restaurant, feeling elated and happy. As he turned to head back to the kitchen, he was suddenly stopped by a grinning Xuan Lu.
“Wow, boss, you’re looking mighty red and smiley today!” Xuan Lu teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Zhan’s face grew even redder as he tried to cover up his blush. “Xuan Lu, you should be using your free time to learn new recipes, not bothering me with your nonsense!” he reprimanded, trying to sound stern but failing miserably.
Xuan Lu just grinned and said “Okay, boss!” before giving Zhan his space and letting him rush to the office.
As Zhan hurried away, Xuan Lu called out after him, “Don’t forget to wear your heart on your sleeve, boss! It suits you!”
Zhan’s face grew even redder as he quickened his pace, but he couldn’t help the smile that spread across his face. He knew Xuan Lu was just teasing him, but he couldn’t deny the truth in her words. He was happy, and he couldn’t wait to see what the future held for him and Yibo.
'Wait,' Zhan thought, his mind suddenly halting as he reached the office door. 'What the future held for him and Yibo?' He paused, his hand on the doorknob, as a flutter rose in his chest. "What kind of thought is that?" he chided himself. 'He…he isn’t expecting much from the other, is he?' Zhan’s eyes widened in surprise at his own musings. 'And besides, I'm freaking married!' he reminded himself, shaking his head to clear the treacherous thoughts.
“Zhan, get your head out of that thought,” he reprimanded himself sternly, taking a deep breath to compose his racing heart. “Focus on the present, not some fantastical future.” With a resolute nod, he pushed open the door and strode into the office, determined to shake off the distracting thoughts and focus on his work.
Yibo was still walking to his car, his heart full of joy and his mind replaying the sweet moments he shared with Zhan at the restaurant. He had been longing to see his Zhan ge for what felt like an eternity, and their encounter had exceeded his expectations. Initially, he had planned on visiting Zhan at home, eager to reconnect in a more intimate setting. However, unsure of how Zhan’s partner would receive him, he thought better Of it, deciding to play it safe and opt for a more neutral location – the restaurant. Now, as he made his way back home, he couldn’t help but feel grateful for the chance encounter. The warmth in Zhan’s eyes and the gentle smile on his face lingered in his mind, filling him with a sense of peace and contentment. He felt like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, and he couldn’t help but smile to himself, basking in the joy of being reunited with his beloved Zhan ge.
As Yibo stepped into the grandeur of his luxurious mansion, the soft glow of the crystal chandeliers illuminating the lavish décor, his eyes scanned the living room, and his heart warmed with familiarity. There, lounging on one of the plush, velvet couches, was his cousin, Sizhui. His eyes fixed on his phone, with his thumbs dancing across the screen with a fluid grace that spoke of privilege and comfort. The soft, melodious sound of his laughter filled the air, mingling with the scent of fresh flowers and the soft hum of wealth, creating a sense of serenity and contentment in the opulent space. Yibo’s gaze lingered on the Solliquet, taking in the relaxed pose, the carefree expression, and the joy radiating from his very being, and he couldn’t help but smile, feeling a sense of gratitude for the warm and loving relationship they shared. The tension in his shoulders eased, and he felt his heart swell with affection as he approached Solliquet, eager to join in on the fun and reconnect with his dear cousin in the lavish haven of their family’s wealth.
The bond between Yibo and Sizhui had been unbreakable since the tragic loss of Sizhui’s parents, with Yibo becoming a rock of support and comfort for his introverted cousin. Sizhui’s aversion to socializing had always been a defining trait, preferring the solitude of books and knowledge to the vibrant world outside. But now, as Yibo gazed upon Sizhui’s radiant smile and sparkling eyes, he witnessed a transformation that defied explanation.
The once-reclusive Sizhui was blossoming into a confident and vibrant individual, embracing life with an enthusiasm that was nothing short of miraculous. This metamorphosis was a testament to the power of love and support, a divine blessing that had brought joy and light into their lives. As Yibo approached Sizhui, he felt his heart swell with pride and gratitude, knowing that their bond had been the catalyst for this remarkable change.
