Chapter 51: Final Chapter: Please take care of me for the rest of my life.

In the days that followed, Xu Yinyin continued her usual 9-to-5 routine, eating melons at work. The only difference was that all her after-work time was now monopolized by Huo Yan.

He either took her to newly opened restaurants to try new dishes or took her to play various indoor sports—skiing, squash, surfing. Saturdays were spent at the amusement park, and weekends were for skydiving. Every day, he arranged everything clearly for her.

On national holidays, they would even fly abroad. Sometimes it was to seek out new foods, other times it was to buy her some unique trinkets.

Under Huo Yan’s constant thoughtful attention, Xu Yinyin gradually grew accustomed to his company. The two of them became more and more in sync with each other.

Now, Huo Yan’s return to the country became known in elite circles, and various invitations to social events began flooding in. In the past, he would have simply sent his secretary to handle them.

But things were different now. His girlfriend liked eating melon, so of course, he had to accompany her personally.

“Baby, when we go, just follow me. I’ll handle the socializing. If you want to interact, you can, if you don’t, then you don’t have to.”

“Mm, I understand.” Xu Yinyin replied calmly.

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“You don’t think about it, but Grandpa arranged for Uncle Zhang to be his eyes and ears. He knows everything about my progress with Ah Yan. Haven’t you noticed how busy the family has been lately? Mom’s been meeting with designers and planners, obviously preparing for my wedding. The marriage is already on the schedule.”

“What if Huo Yan suddenly proposes to you? Would you accept?”

“Of course, I would. If I get married, I won’t have to work anymore. Just for that, I’d say yes.”

“Can’t you want something else? This is a bit hurtful. He likes you so much.”

Huo Yan nodded vigorously in his heart. His girlfriend’s love for him was too lukewarm. Sometimes, he even felt like he couldn’t compete with a plate of food.

The way she looked at him wasn’t even as enthusiastic as when she was eating melon, and it frustrated him.

Although their relationship had progressed significantly, in terms of intimate actions, they were still at the stage of just kissing. For a man who had only recently bloomed in middle age, it was a bit too cruel.

“You can’t just act on desire right now. With you as a baggage, even if I wanted something to happen, it always feels like someone’s watching.”

“Is it my fault then?”

“What else could it be? By the way, can I block you?”

“What are you trying to do? Are you so eager?”

Huo Yan’s eyes lit up. Whether he could take their relationship to the next step depended on this moment.

“Of course, with such a high-quality man, who wouldn’t be eager to have him? If it were you, wouldn’t you be anxious?”

Though the system was displeased with the host’s forgetfulness of loyalty in favor of lust, it still magnanimously said: “As long as you don’t want me, just completely ignore my presence.”

“Is it that simple? Let me try!”

The next second, the system seemed to be blocked from all sensory input, falling into endless darkness.

System: QAQ Whimper, no loyalty from you!

Xu Yinyin seized the opportunity to kiss Huo Yan, a deep kiss that lasted at least five minutes. Only after getting him all heated did she let go.

Huo Yan: “Although this is an experiment, there’s no need to ignite someone’s burning desire. :)”

“Xiao Qi, what did I just do?”

Xu Yinyin’s tone was curious, almost like a little kid eager to show off a new toy.

“I don’t know. I can’t see or hear anything, and I can’t even imagine it. But if I had to guess, you must have done something unspeakable to him.”

“Hehehe, now I know how to control when you’re online and offline.”

“Then I also know when you want to do bad things, hmph.”

“Don’t worry, just feel free to imagine whatever you want as long as you can’t see it.”

“Would you ignore gossip because you’re too absorbed in beauty?”

It was a gossip system, after all. If it didn’t get any gossip for a long time, it would die, right?

“How could that be? Romance is just a spice, eating melons is the true fun of life. Don’t worry, I won’t change my mind and abandon you. A life without gossip is meaningless.”

“Mm, now I’m at ease. I knew you wouldn’t disappoint me. Love you, Yinyin.”

The system sent a sizzling hot love heart.

Xu Yinyin couldn’t help but laugh at its dog-like flattery, smiling foolishly beside it.

Huo Yan also couldn’t help but laugh, pulling her hand and intertwining their fingers.

The car quickly arrived at the venue of the banquet. The two of them got out of the car hand in hand and entered the main hall.

Xu Yinyin’s eyes immediately lit up with excitement, as if she could hardly wait.

“Xiao Qi, it’s time to open the melon.”

“Here it comes!”

As their voices rang out, those who knew the gossip began to perk up their ears. Those who didn’t were shocked and glanced around.

The host of the banquet shuddered. Oh no, he had forgotten that Huo Yan’s girlfriend was the famous melon queen Xu Yinyin.

“The host of this banquet is quite upright, not much gossip here, but the guests are another story. Ready?”

When the host heard that he was safe, he sighed in relief and also pricked up his ears for the gossip.

Of course, other people’s gossip is always the most delicious!

The guests, as mentioned by the system, had their own thoughts. Some were curious and eager for the gossip, some were anxious and fearful, and others had already mentally prepared to flee.

“All set, go!”

“Okay, look at the pair of sisters at 8 o’clock, the ones in black dresses and dark blue strapless gowns. See them?”

Everyone subtly searched for the target, then locked in on them.

“Mm, I see them. What’s the melon?”

“The two of them got divorced last month, then remarried. The older sister married her brother-in-law, and the younger sister married her brother-in-law.”

“Wow, that’s a classic case of “good things come to those who wait”!”

Huo Yan had just taken a sip of wine when he choked on it and turned red, coughing, “Cough, cough, cough.”

Even though he was mentally prepared, Huo Yan was still shocked by this gossip and choked.

“Drink slowly,” Xu Yinyin hurriedly patted his back to help him catch his breath.

“I’m fine, I’m fine,” Huo Yan reassured, holding her hand.

It wasn’t just him; everyone who had just learned of the gossip from the gossip queen was shocked. Indeed, eating melon was both a surprise and a delight—outrageous and explosive.

“More, more! Keep it going!”

Once Huo Yan had calmed down, Xu Yinyin handed him a glass of water and waited for him to finish drinking before continuing the gossip.

“Continue, continue.”

“Look at the young lady in a water-blue silk gown at 9 o’clock on your right, with long hair down to her waist. See her?”

“Mm, I see her.”

“She broke up with her ex-boyfriend two weeks ago, and now he’s become her stepdad.”

“Oh my, this is the legendary case of “If I can’t be your boyfriend, I’ll be your father.” How impressive!”

“But this stepdad didn’t marry her mother. He actually got married to her dad abroad.”

“Wow!!!!”

“Poof—cough, cough, cough!”

Some of the guests spat out their drinks in shock, and the room filled with the sound of people coughing.

“Eh, what’s wrong with these people? Is there something wrong with the wine?”

“Maybe it’s fake wine.”

Banquet host: Thank you, it’s high-quality whiskey. It’s just that the gossip you’re sharing is so explosive that it’s too much for our bodies to handle. 🙂

“Who cares? Is there more?”

“Right in front of you, a man and a woman sitting across a long dining table, throwing daggers at each other with their eyes. See them?”

“Mm, what’s the gossip?”

“They also just broke up, but during their relationship, they did everything they were supposed to do. After breaking up, the woman was upset about the two years of lost youth, so she sued him for compensation. Two hundred per session, totaling two hundred thousand.”

Xu Yinyin was taken aback. “Is this the “compensation for wear and tear” I think it is? The kind that happens during… you know, those activities?”

“Mm, isn’t that outrageous?”

“Pfft, hahaha, this is too weird.”

The crowd of onlookers struggled to suppress their laughter, and then they heard—

“The ridiculous part is that the man followed suit and sued for compensation for “body essence output.””

“Hahaha, I’m dying! No wonder they say, “You can’t have two different kinds of people in one bed.””

The gossip crowd was shaking from holding in their laughter, and Huo Yan also had to press his palm to his hand to keep from losing his composure. This was just too absurd and funny.

The people whose gossip was exposed were shaking with rage, but they couldn’t figure out where the sound was coming from—outrageous!

“The world is big, and there’s all kinds of people.”

“That’s right, sometimes the gossip from young people can’t even compare to some of the older foxes.”

“What do you mean?”

The gossip crowd silently looked around, their eyes scanning the group of people over fifty.

“Do you see the family of seven standing with the banquet host?”

Everyone turned to look at the target group and was suddenly “called out,” making the family of seven shiver.

“I see them.”

“Don’t be fooled by how affectionate the family looks; actually, the old man is the most flirtatious. He often has affairs and, when he finds one he can’t get rid of, he just lets his son marry them. Those three beautiful daughters-in-law of his are all the result of his past affairs.”

“Wow, looks like the older generation really knows how to have fun!”

“And after marriage, they take turns serving him in bed. Whoever serves him the best gets money from their husbands. When the sons run out of money, they fight over sending their wives to serve him.”

“Good heavens, the old man must think he’s an emperor or something!”

“I can only say they’re playing a very new type of family dynamic. The old man is thriving!”

The gossip target’s face turned red, and he quickly excused himself to leave, with his three sons chasing after him.

“Eh, why did they suddenly leave?”

“The old man probably wants to study the mysteries of life with his daughters-in-law again.”

The onlookers bit their lips, thinking to themselves, “What mysteries of life? I’m dying from laughter right here!”

“Hic~ Tonight’s gossip really fills me up.”

Xu Yinyin said she was a bit full and pulled Huo Yan to the dining table to find something else to eat.

However, the guests’ excitement had already been stirred up by her. The gossip spirit had transformed into a little devil, bouncing on their hearts, urging for more. “Come on, come on, this is how a banquet should be opened!”

Huo Yan, however, didn’t want his precious one to get too exhausted. Seeing that she had already had her fill of gossip for the night, he made sure she ate and drank well. After bidding farewell to the host, they left.

After witnessing the power of the Gossip Queen, everyone silently decided that in future banquets, they would not participate unless Huo Yan and Xu Yinyin were there!

As soon as they got into the car, Xu Yinyin, full and drowsy, leaned on his shoulder and fell asleep. Huo Yan gently placed her head on his lap to make her more comfortable.

The more he interacted with her, the more Huo Yan felt his girlfriend was like a child—carefree, eating when hungry, sleeping when tired, and loving to gossip. She was so easy to take care of.

Being able to spend his life with her truly felt like the greatest happiness.

Thinking of this, he couldn’t resist bending down to kiss the corner of her lips, only to have her suddenly pull him by the back of his neck, deepening the kiss.

After the kiss, Huo Yan gently tapped her nose and smiled, “Pretending to be asleep? You’re getting more mischievous.”

“Ah Yan, can I not go home tonight?” Xu Yinyin said shyly and timidly.

Huo Yan was stunned at first, then his eyes immediately filled with boundless joy, “You… you’re serious?”

“Mm,” Xu Yinyin shyly nodded. “Don’t you want to?”

“Of course I want to! You know how hard I’ve been holding back, baby. Are you sure you want to take this step with me?”

Setting aside the physical desire, Xu Yinyin’s decision meant complete trust and dependence on him. It was something he had always longed for, but he genuinely reminded her not to act impulsively and regret it later.

“No matter what, I’ve already decided on you for this lifetime. I’ve always told you that in our relationship, you’re always the one in charge. I’m happy to follow you, so please never compromise or back down just to cater to my feelings, okay?”

Xu Yinyin knew that Huo Yan respected and cared for her deeply. This decision wasn’t made on a whim; she truly wanted to take things further with him.

Although they would eventually get married, sometimes when the feelings were right, taking that next step naturally made sense. Huo Yan always held back, and she could see and feel how much he valued and cared for her.

“There’s no backing down; I really want to go further with you. When you’re holding back, I’m holding back too, okay?”

Xu Yinyin muttered, a bit resentful.

Huo Yan pinched her cheek, unable to resist kissing her again and holding her in his arms, feeling a little awkward in his flustered state.

“Baby, I love you, so much.”

Xu Yinyin’s face heated up, and despite her shyness, she responded, “I love you too.”

---

When Xu Yinyin woke up again, it was already noon the next day. She opened her eyes to see clothes scattered all over the floor, the disarray indicating the urgency and excitement of last night.

Thinking back to Huo Yan’s actions from last night, she wanted to find a hole to crawl into.

How could he be so skilled? He didn’t seem like a first-timer at all. No wonder people said men are self-taught in that area; she’d truly learned that the hard way.

Lost in thought, Huo Yan walked in, looking refreshed, and the sunlight coming through the window made him look even more energized.

In contrast, she felt sore all over, her body in pain. Life is just so unfair.

“Awake, baby? Are you hungry? I made breakfast. How about you eat and then sleep some more?”

Huo Yan lay down next to her, his loose bathrobe slightly open, revealing his chest and abs with faint red marks—just a glance made Xu Yinyin feel embarrassed, so she quickly pulled the blanket over her head.

“Oh my god, am I a dog? How could I have done that to him? But I think I really like his waist and abs. Ah, I can’t think about this anymore, my body can’t handle it!”

Huo Yan was so touched by her thoughts that, recalling his performance last night, he figured he must’ve satisfied his baby.

Feeling proud, he raised his chin and scooped her up, blanket and all.

Xu Yinyin, startled, stretched out her arms to hold him, scared. “What are you doing? I’m not dressed yet.”

“It’s okay, you look beautiful even without clothes. I love every version of you.”

Without caring for Xu Yinyin’s struggles, he carried her to the dining room, sat her on his lap, and fed her porridge, watching her awkwardly eat, a smile never leaving his face.

Xu Yinyin had always thought that couples being too lovey-dovey in movies was a bit cheesy. Now, she realized she had become the very thing she used to dislike.

After last night, just a look from him would make him go all out, leaving her in a daze.

Xu Yinyin learned her lesson and dared not make eye contact with him. She lowered her gaze to the floor, zoning out. However, someone deliberately teased her and asked with a smile, “Want it again?”

“Huh?!” Xu Yinyin looked up in confusion and then quickly shook her head in fear. “No, no, my legs are so sore.”

“If you don’t want it, then drink the rest of the bird’s nest soup,” Huo Yan said, holding up a spoon to signal her.

“But I can’t drink anymore, I just want to sleep.”

“Alright, no food then. Let’s go to sleep.”

Huo Yan wiped her mouth clean, picked her up, and carried her to the bedroom. After gently laying her on the bed, he lay down beside her, pulling her into his arms, resting his head on her neck, and closing his eyes.

Xu Yinyin’s body stiffened suddenly, and Huo Yan chuckled, “Don’t be afraid, just sleep. I won’t disturb you.”

“You better keep your word.”

“Mm, go to sleep. If I talk more, I’m not sure I can keep my promise.”

Xu Yinyin quickly closed her eyes upon hearing this, soon drifting into sleep.

After confirming she was asleep, Huo Yan slowly got up, covered her with the blanket, and kissed her forehead before leaving the room.

As he reached the first floor, his three ungrateful sons arrived with tools to set up the scene.

Since the day they returned from R Country, Huo Yan had been brainstorming for the proposal. After nearly a month of preparation, it was finally taking shape, and today was the final stage.

“Brother Yan, you’re so eager, you made us think you’d propose today,” He Yang said, a bit resentful.

“The day is right, so why not today?” Huo Yan replied.

“Mm?!!!” The three of them exclaimed in surprise.

“Wait, are you really proposing today? Where’s the ring?”

Huo Yan pulled out a dark blue velvet box from his pocket and waved it in front of them, wearing a proud expression. “It just arrived this morning.”

“Oh~ no wonder you rushed us. Turns out you had it all planned out.”

Ji Kai looked a bit downcast. “I was the first to get into a relationship, yet you’re the first to propose. Tsk!”

“Who can predict fate? I thought Brother Yan was bent the other way.”

Huo Yan shot him a glance and urged, “Enough chatter, hurry up and get to work.”

The three men begrudgingly went to the backyard and started setting up. Imagining the scene when their sister-in-law would see the finished setup, they were energized.

After all, she had helped them with Huo Yan for a while, so putting together an unforgettable proposal for her was the least they could do in return.

Huo Yan, with the air of a grandmaster, directed everyone with a picky and harsh attitude, resembling a very demanding figure.

The three worked tirelessly through the afternoon, not even having a sip of water, only to be hurried away by Huo Yan.

As they grumbled about his lack of compassion, they hopped into the car. Huo Yan didn’t care about being humane around these ungrateful sons; he treated them like laborers.

To him, a proposal wasn’t about restraint or needing witnesses. As long as she agreed, everyone would be happy, and if she didn’t, he’d give her a graceful exit.

That’s why, from the very beginning, he hadn’t planned for anyone to be present. Once it was over, he’d send them all home without hesitation.

Thinking she should be awake by now, he quickly chased the others off and went to check on his future wife. He found her still sound asleep and felt a twinge of regret. He shouldn’t have exhausted her so much.

But this feeling lasted only for a few seconds, as his sweet wife was worth every bit of it. He’d do it again next time.

Suppressing his emotions, Huo Yan went back to the dining room to prepare a candlelit dinner.

Xu Yinyin came out of the bedroom and saw him wearing an apron, busying himself between the kitchen and dining room.

This domestic side of him was something she had never seen before. Compared to the aloof and distant person she first met, he was now considerate and gentle.

Of course, this was only true outside the bedroom.

“Need help?” she asked without much sincerity.

“Baby’s awake, just sit and wait for the food,” Huo Yan replied.

“Okay,” she answered naturally.

She had to admit that Huo Yan was quite good at cooking, and the presentation was great. When the rice was served, she couldn’t wait and said, “I’m going to eat now.”

Huo Yan nodded and started serving her vegetables, eating slowly himself. Maybe because he was nervous, he felt that his cooking wasn’t up to par today.

“Is it good?” he asked anxiously.

Xu Yinyin, starving, ate quickly, too busy to speak but nodded and murmured an affirmation.

“Slow down, don’t choke,” Huo Yan hurriedly ladled some soup and placed it next to her.

After she drank a couple of sips and finally felt full, she noticed that Huo Yan hadn’t eaten much.

“Why aren’t you eating?”

“I’m not hungry. Did you eat enough, baby?”

“I’m full.”

“Then, how about a walk in the backyard?” Huo Yan gestured toward the small garden behind them.

Since last night had been so rushed and their minds were elsewhere, Xu Yinyin suddenly became interested in the luxurious little garden.

“Sure!” she responded eagerly, then added, “But I have to go back tonight. You’ll take me home later?”

“Can’t you stay just one more night? I promise I won’t do anything,” Huo Yan said, looking pitiful.

If the proposal failed, he could soothe her right away. If she left, it would be a disaster.

“Do you think I believe you?” Xu Yinyin teased.

“Alright, fine, go ahead. It’s not like I’ll be alone in an empty room. I’ll get used to it. Even if I’ve had warmth before, I can adapt to the cold again.”

Xu Yinyin ignored his pitiful act, stood up, and headed toward the backyard.

Seeing that his act of playing the victim didn’t work, Huo Yan hurried to catch up, grabbed her hand, intertwined their fingers, and whispered slyly, “Can’t you stay a bit longer?”

“At most until eleven.”

“Okay.”

They walked slowly along the white stone path toward the backyard.

The small courtyard has an overall European-style garden theme, lush with greenery and a variety of flowers in full bloom, competing for attention. In the center of the yard, there’s a small fountain, its gentle flowing water blending beautifully with the surrounding greenery, creating a unique and serene atmosphere.

To the left of the fountain is a delicate leisure platform, where modern ground lights and light strips set a romantic mood.

Next to it, a scenic water pool with mountain stones and flowing water adds a touch of spirit to the small garden.

Further ahead is a vast lake. In the distance, the sunset is slowly sinking in the west. The two of them stand hand in hand in the glow of the orange light, gazing at the distant mountains. The clear lake reflects the warm, orange sky, creating a picturesque view in every direction.

“The scenery here is really beautiful,” Xu Yinyin said sincerely.

“If you’re willing, this place can also be your home,” Huo Yan turned to look at her, gently kissing her hand.

Xu Yinyin smiled knowingly. “Does this count as a proposal?”

“Not yet. A proposal can’t be so casual,” Huo Yan replied seriously.

Xu Yinyin laughed. “Then, in your eyes, what kind of proposal would be considered formal?”

Huo Yan smiled but didn’t answer. A breeze picked up, and he took the opportunity to say, “I’ll get you a jacket. It’ll get cold tonight.”

“Thank you,” Xu Yinyin didn’t press him on his deliberate avoidance, smiling as she expressed her gratitude.

When he left, she didn’t stay where she was and instead wandered around by herself.

After about ten minutes, still no sign of him returning, Xu Yinyin began to feel puzzled. Just as she was about to turn back the way she came, the lights around her suddenly brightened.

The small courtyard seemed to have been suddenly filled with stars, as countless star-shaped lights illuminated the surroundings like daylight.

Even the previously dim stone path lit up, but instead of a continuous light, the light from below her feet formed small clusters, and upon closer inspection, she noticed the light strips contained hidden messages.

It looked more like a miniature display screen, with orange-pink text scrolling: “Walk forward.”

She stepped forward, and another cluster of lights lit up, showing the text: “Take five steps to the left.”

Xu Yinyin’s face lit up with joy, and a thought surged in her mind.

“Xiao Qi, do you think Huo Yan is about to propose to me?”

Her voice couldn’t hide the excitement and happiness.

The system, which had been blocked for a day and a night, responded bitterly, its tone filled with irritation: “If he’s going to propose, then let him! You’ve already done “this and that” with him, do you think he wouldn’t propose?”

“That’s not it! Just look at the setup around here. You couldn’t pull something like this off in just ten days or so.”

The system casually scanned the surroundings. The light bulbs alone were handmade pure crystal, each one costing a fortune. The electric wiring and the mini high-tech display screens on the ground were also a big undertaking.

But what did that have to do with it?

Once they got married, it would be locked away in a little dark room when there’s nothing for it to do. It couldn’t handle the isolation, and it would be so lonely—boo-hoo.

If it had known how clingy they were, it never would have told the host how to block it! This was like digging its own grave!

“Since he’s put so much thought into this, why not pretend you don’t know?”

“I know it’s a proposal, but I can’t predict the outcome until the very end. I’m so excited, Little Seven, how could Huo Yan be so amazing?”

“Hmph, it’s just a rich person’s little trick!”

Xu Yinyin couldn’t care less about the system’s sour remarks. She just wanted to follow the signs and keep walking.

After taking five steps to the left, the next sign lit up: “Please open the treasure chest in front of you.”

Xu Yinyin looked down at her feet, seeing nothing. Just as she was about to wonder what was going on, the ground suddenly opened up to reveal a hidden compartment, from which slowly rose a paper box about one meter tall.

Thinking it might contain a ring, she opened it and found it was filled with her favorite snacks, brightly colored and waiting to be enjoyed.

Xu Yinyin smiled knowingly. These were things she loved, and it was so like him to understand her so well.

She continued following the signs, and as she reached the end of the garden, the lights suddenly dimmed.

“Eh? Is there a power outage?” Xu Yinyin said, half laughing and half bewildered.

“No way there’s a power outage! A CEO proposing is practically like launching a rocket to the moon! Power outage? Please, this must be another surprise.”

The system’s tone was still dripping with jealousy.

Suddenly, in front of her, a crystal light formed, connecting from the bottom to the top in the shape of a heart. Huo Yan stood right in the center of the heart.

The man who had just gone to get a jacket for his girlfriend was now dressed in a formal three-piece suit. His broad shoulders, narrow waist, and long legs were perfectly outlined, transforming him from a casual, homey look to a high-powered CEO. Standing in the center of the heart, he looked a bit awkward but still fixed his gaze on her.

Seeing her smile at him, Huo Yan was so nervous that he couldn’t speak. After a long pause, he finally managed to say, “Yinyin, come here.”

Although his tone should have been commanding, it was trembling with nervousness.

If you looked closely, you could see his hand at his side repeatedly clenching and relaxing, revealing just how nervous he was.

Xu Yinyin walked slowly toward him, smiling teasingly as she asked, “Weren’t you going to get me a jacket? Why are you dressed so formally now?”

His nervousness eased a little with her playful tone. He gestured for her to approach, and she didn’t hesitate, placing her hand in his palm.

As he held her hand, she clearly felt him trembling. She reached him, wrapped her arms around his waist, and looked up at him with a teasing smile, “You’re nervous? That’s rare.”

Huo Yan smiled as well, nuzzling his nose against hers affectionately. He then took a deep breath, his gaze locking with hers, sincere and unwavering.

“Yinyin, I’ve waited for this day for twenty-nine years. Before meeting you, I never imagined what my future wife would be like, nor did I consider whether I would ever get married. But the moment I met you and fell for you, I knew that in this lifetime, it could only be you. Xu Yinyin, will you marry me and become Huo Yan’s wife?”

Huo Yan kneeled on one knee, his right hand, which had been resting behind him, slowly lifted. With his palm facing upwards, he opened his fist to reveal a small blue velvet box lying quietly in his hand.

Though it seemed weightless, the solemn expression on Huo Yan’s face, combined with his nervous, uneasy gaze, showed that this little box carried all his hopes and dreams.

Xu Yinyin looked back at him. Her silence made Huo Yan’s heart race, but the smile slowly spreading in her eyes gave him comfort.

Just as he was about to ask again, Xu Yinyin took the box from his hand and gently opened it. The sight of the diamond ring made her unable to suppress the emotion swelling inside her. Her eyes immediately became teary.

“Is this the one we saw at the vintage shop in F Country? You actually bought it! Didn’t the shopkeeper refuse to sell it?”

“The shopkeeper didn’t sell it. I sketched the design from memory and had a designer I know improve it. It was just finished this morning. Although it’s not exactly the same—”

Before Huo Yan could finish, Xu Yinyin hugged him, burying her head in his chest and muttering in a muffled voice, “I’m willing, Huo Yan. Xu Yinyin is willing to be Huo Yan’s wife, to grow old with you, and never be apart.”

With such a thoughtful boyfriend, who could resist? She was completely smitten.

Huo Yan stood frozen in place, his eyes filled with both surprise and joy. After a long while, he embraced her back, tightening his hold with satisfaction. “Thank you, my dear. I love you. For the rest of our lives, please take care of me, my wife.”

Even though the system still harbored some resentment, it couldn’t help but feel moved at witnessing the couple’s happy ending. Tears welled up in its eyes.

“Wuwu, even though I’m upset that once you two get all lovey-dovey, I get locked away in my little dark room, seeing how happy you two are still makes me emotional. Fine, I forgive you! Wuwu, manually throwing flowers! Congratulations, congratulations!”

The moment Huo Yan placed the ring on Xu Yinyin’s finger, the lights around them all lit up. Suddenly, the sky above brightened, and countless fireworks exploded overhead. Xu Yinyin leaned into Huo Yan, quietly enjoying the brilliance and beauty of the moment.

*

On the day Xu Yinyin and Huo Yan got married, their families and close friends attended the ceremony. At their request, the wedding was kept simple, with only the closest friends and family invited. The venue was Huo Yan’s private island, with sunshine, beaches, and delicious food—everything Xu Yinyin had imagined for her dream wedding.

The soon-to-be newlyweds walked through the ceremony in a relaxed manner, exchanging wedding rings and reading their vows before completing the ritual.

The rest of the time was spent with guests drinking, chatting, dancing, and celebrating. The newlyweds mingled with the guests, having lively conversations, creating a festive atmosphere.

“It’s really wonderful. I never thought I’d live to see the day Huo Yan got married. I once thought I’d never see a granddaughter-in-law,” Yan Yashan said, looking at the newlyweds with a tear in his eye.

Xu Hongtian, recalling the rumors about Huo Yan, couldn’t help but laugh, “I’ve watched Huo Yan grow up. How could you believe such nonsense? You must be getting old.”

“Yes, getting older makes us think strange things. But now it’s all settled. Huo Yan and Yinyin are finally together. We can all be at ease,” Yan Yashan said.

“Exactly. Shall we have a toast?” Xu Hongtian raised his glass.

Yan Yashan smiled and clinked glasses with him. They exchanged a look full of reassurance and contentment.

Jiang Xin looked at her happily married daughter, her eyes turning red with emotion, “Now that Yinyin is gone, there are only three of us left at home. She just came back, and now she’s leaving again… Wuwu.”

“Hey, why are you crying on such a joyous occasion? Yinyin and Huo Yan are in love with each other. This is the best outcome. We should be happy. Also, Zhou Xinyi and Qian Chuan have been arrested, and the evidence from Lao Er and Yaoyao is enough to put them away for life. Our family has no more worries. This is truly a reason to celebrate. Stop crying, dear. I beg you,” Xu Hongtian said gently.

“Yes, Mom. From now on, all that awaits us is a smooth path. Sister and Brother-in-law are in love with each other, and both families are close friends. It’s the perfect marriage. We should all be happy for Sister. No more tears, okay?”

Jiang Xin nodded quickly, wiping away her tears, “Okay, I won’t cry. I should be happy that Yinyin has found true love.”

Meanwhile, Huo Yan was looking at the extravagant gift list from the “ungrateful” brothers, which included private islands, airplanes, and yachts. It was truly extravagant.

But what made him even more confused was that these gifts were all things his friends specifically wanted to give to his wife. Huo Yan was torn.

“What’s the meaning of this?”

“Isn’t it our duty as brothers to show respect to our sister-in-law?”

“A small token, surely Huo Yan wouldn’t think it’s too little?”

“I’ll make sure to pass on your kind thoughts. Thanks for your help today,” Huo Yan said sincerely.

“Hey, don’t mention that. Come on, let’s all toast the groom! Wishing you and Sister a lifetime of happiness, and may you have a son soon!”

Huo Yan smiled and raised his glass, drinking heartily, “Thanks for the well wishes.”

Xu Yinyin, watching Huo Yan happily drinking with his friends from afar, couldn’t help but admire, “Sis, my brother-in-law is really great. He’s handsome, generous, and listens to you. He’s really one in a million.”

Xu Yinyin took a sip of her drink, giving him a sidelong glance, “I know, that’s why I married him without hesitation. And I even get to quit my job and fully enjoy life. I married young, so I won’t be able to help with the company much. Grandpa doesn’t expect me to, but what about you? Have you decided what you’ll do after graduation? I’m waiting for an investment from you.”

“I’ve thought about it. I’ll return to the company and start from the bottom, just like you said. I can’t just enjoy the benefits of the family without giving back. Grandpa is getting older, and I should help him with the family matters. Plus, there are many ways to prove oneself. As long as I put in the effort, I’ll achieve success wherever I am. Sis, you can rest assured and enjoy life. Feng Yi and I will take care of things for you, so you can sleep without worry.”

Xu Yinyin looked at him with surprised admiration and said, “Not bad. In just a few months, Ah Yao has grown a lot.”

“It’s all thanks to my sister’s good guidance. You deserve half the credit for my achievements. If I miss you, can I visit you often?”

“Of course, no need to ask,” Xu Yinyin affectionately ruffled his hair.

Xu Yao smiled contentedly. With something to eat, everything was good.

Time passed quickly, and soon it was late at night. The guests’ enthusiasm continued to rise. Huo Yan, eager for some alone time with his wife, took advantage of the situation and sneaked Xu Yinyin away when no one was paying attention.

The two of them walked along the mountain path on the island, climbing to the highest point. They sat on the ground, leaning against each other, quietly gazing at the bright moon.

“Honey, are you tired?” Huo Yan raised his hand to drape it over her shoulder and gently asked.

“A bit,” Xu Yinyin bent over and lightly rubbed her calves. “Mostly because I’m not used to wearing high heels.”

Huo Yan smiled, squatted down, removed her shoes, and gently massaged her feet, moving his hands up her calves.

Xu Yinyin closed her eyes in comfort. “Thank you, darling. Mua!”

She gave him a soft kiss, and Huo Yan responded with a deep kiss. He said, “Baby, hang in there. After we send off the guests tomorrow, we can stay on the island for a while before going back.”

“Sounds good,” Xu Yinyin smiled brightly.

Huo Yan raised his hand and pinched her cheek. “My wife is so easy to please—just feed her, give her drinks, and take her out to play, and she’ll be happy. It’s great.”

“My husband is great too—gentle, thoughtful, and knows how to massage. Truly amazing.”

“I’m amazing in other ways too.”

Xu Yinyin instantly understood and hurriedly nodded, “Yes, yes, you’re amazing in every way.”

“Are you just saying that to flatter me?”

“No, really, you’re amazing.”

“Then, since my husband is so amazing, how are you going to reward me?”

Xu Yinyin played with his tie and asked, “What does my husband want?”

“Does that mean if I want something, my wife will give it to me?”

“Yes.”

“Alright, you said it.”

As soon as the words left his mouth, Huo Yan leaned in close to her ear and said in an ambiguous tone, “I brought a bunny girl outfit. Let’s play that tonight.”

Xu Yinyin’s ears instantly turned red, and she shyly nodded, “Okay.”

Huo Yan lightly bit her nose, unable to wait any longer, and immediately picked her up and started walking down the mountain.

“What are you doing? The guests are still here.”

“Baby, just try to keep the noise down.”

“……”

The system gave a start, realizing with dread that it was about to be locked in the little dark room again. Damn it, Huo Yan, can’t you just hold back for a bit? QAQ

---

Sansukini: Awww… it’s done. This novel is not really focused on romance but I still appreciate the romantic ending of the story. Personally, I don’t think I want my partner to hear my thought because my head is often in a clutter and there are often some random bad thoughts in my head that are not really serious. I’m glad that she was protected by the system in a was that others were not allowed to reveal to her that they can hear her thoughts coz that allowed her to stay a carefree person.

Thanks so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this one and give it a heart here and a 5-star ratings on novelupdates.

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