The Marriage Partner Is The Villain Boss Chapter 38
byChapter 38
Take your time, I am not in a hurry.
Standing on her tiptoes, Xu Zhiyi leaned into her ear and whispered a few words that only the two of them could hear.
Unexpectedly, before she could even finish, the woman’s expression immediately lit up with joy. She tried to lean in for another kiss. Are you serious? Wife, you have to wait for me…
Before she could finish the words working overtime, she was shyly pulled to the table by Xu Zhiyi. Let us eat first.
Alright. Pei Qingyan naturally pulled her to her side, acting as if she couldn’t bear to be apart from her. I want to hold my wife while I eat.
Mm… don’t get distracted.
Xu Zhiyi selectively ignored the other woman’s restless hands and leaned into her embrace with half-hearted resistance. Have you felt unwell lately? What did the doctor say?
Quite good.
Fearing she wouldn’t believe her, Pei Qingyan added, The doctor meant that my condition is much better than before. I don’t need any more IV drips for the time being.
Mhm.
It is all thanks to my wife’s supervision.
As light as a feather, a touch of moisture brushed against her cheek. Xu Zhiyi looked up, meeting eyes that were brimming with pleasure from the successful secret kiss.
So you mean you want me to supervise you every day from now on? She turned her face away, her tone softening. If it meant curing the woman’s long-standing ailment, she was willing to do anything.
It would be even better if there was a reward.
The woman looked at her expectantly, her long-hidden fox tail finally showing itself.
A reward…
How could Xu Zhiyi not understand what she was thinking? After a moment of thought, she nodded. Fine, there can be a reward.
As for the specifics, it is a secret for now.
She brushed against the woman’s fingertips, intentionally leaving the details vague. You will definitely like it.
Wife—
Focus on work first, we can talk about it later tonight. Xu Zhiyi hurriedly stood up. If she stayed a moment longer, she feared she would completely melt into the woman’s arms.
The moment she turned away, she didn’t see the sudden upward curve of the other woman’s lips.
…
Xu Zhiyi hadn’t come here today just to idle around.
She had brought her laptop, intending to further refine her project proposal.
The conversation with Qian Hui at noon had been like a stone dropped into a pond, creating ripples while also making her re-evaluate her career planning.
Undoubtedly, her goal was to gain enough experience to become a formal researcher. However, this process would take at least five years, not to mention the various potential complications along the way.
She had asked Qian Hui about this, and the other woman was clearly aiming for the same title. However, according to her, one had to produce truly impressive results.
Besides one’s own efforts, a bit of luck was also required.
Xu Zhiyi typed the final punctuation mark and noticed out of the corner of her eye that her tea was gone.
Her shoulders felt stiff, so she stood up, intending to walk around and see if there was a place to refill her water. But once she stepped out, the vast space made her feel a bit disoriented. After standing still for a moment, she heard faint voices coming from the end of the corridor.
Was that the pantry?
She hesitated, but Pei Qingyan had gone downstairs for a meeting with an uncertain return time, leaving her alone in the office.
Waiting around like this wasn’t a solution either. Xu Zhiyi picked up her cup and walked slowly in that direction. At the very least, she could ask for directions.
As she drew closer, the conversation became clear.
President Pei seems to be in a good mood today. When I went to deliver documents just now, she was actually smiling!
Of course. Just look at who came to visit today…
Speaking of which, when President Pei asked me to push back her schedule last week, I was still wondering about it. It didn’t seem like her style at all, but now I finally understand.
When I went to deliver documents just now, I caught a glimpse of that Miss Xu from a distance. I almost dropped my files—
The conversation suddenly cut off as if a pause button had been pressed, replaced by a synchronized, Hello, President Pei.
What are you doing here? Pei Qingyan’s voice betrayed no emotion. Have you finished organizing the materials I requested?
The sound of scattered footsteps followed, accompanied by the sound of doors closing.
Xu Zhiyi suppressed a smile, wondering when she should step out to give her a fright. To her surprise, the woman discovered her first.
Wife, why did you come out?
Xu Zhiyi shook her empty water cup, her mood inexplicably brightening. I couldn’t find where to get water, President Pei.
I told you not to call me that. The woman’s expression gradually softened as she took her hand. I’ll take you. There is a water dispenser right next to the office.
Mhm. She obediently followed her back, finding the recent eavesdropping quite amusing. So that is what you are like at work.
Like what?
A bit fierce. Xu Zhiyi paused for a second, choosing to be honest.
Unexpectedly, as soon as she said it, the woman stopped in her tracks.
If you don’t like it…
A-Yan. Xu Zhiyi looked up at her, her tone light. I didn’t say I disliked it.
She wrapped her arms around the woman’s neck, pressing herself close while lightly pecking her tightly pressed lips. No matter what you are like, you are my A-Yan.
When she heard footsteps echoing in the corridor, the courage she had managed to gather vanished instantly. She tried to pull away from the woman’s embrace in a panic. The door isn’t closed.
It’s fine. Pei Qingyan wanted to keep kissing her regardless of everything, to prolong that intoxicating feeling. But for a moment, reason prevailed. She turned and locked the door. My wife is still so easily embarrassed.
This is a workplace, after all… Xu Zhiyi finally felt safe enough to lean back into her arms, murmuring softly, I’m afraid of making a bad impression.
It won’t.
The woman nibbled on her earlobe before kissing the skin near her collarbone, leaving behind trails of moisture.
I actually hope my wife will come to see me more often.
…Mm. Xu Zhiyi was kissed into a daze and nodded in agreement subconsciously, completely unaware that she had fallen into the other woman’s trap once again.
By the time Pei Qingyan was finally willing to let her go, she remembered her conversation with Qian Hui and unknowingly voiced her question. A-Yan, do you like children?
They’re alright, the woman replied seriously while holding her with satisfaction. As long as they are born from my wife, I will like them.
Then— Xu Zhiyi couldn’t help but bite her lip, the rest of the question stuck in her throat.
She was afraid that asking would hurt their relationship, but not asking felt like a thorn in her heart.
Before we registered our marriage, you told me you didn’t want children before the age of thirty. Pei Qingyan seemed to sense her unease and took the initiative to break the silence. I completely agree with that.
Whether or not we have a daughter is secondary to me. I only want you, wife.
Xu Zhiyi was stared at by her, the surging emotions in her eyes clearly visible.
This is cheating, she thought, her blood feeling as if it were burning under that gaze.
Even after Pei Qingyan finished her work, the heat in her face had not returned to normal.
By the time they returned home, the clock was nearing midnight.
After washing up and lying in bed, Xu Zhiyi found herself unable to sleep for some reason.
She tried to close her eyes and steady her breathing, her ears filled with the woman’s strong and steady heartbeat.
This kind of peaceful life somehow made her feel incredibly attached, to the point where she wished it could last forever.
Yes, forever.
She quietly turned over, observing the woman’s peaceful sleeping face from a close distance, her fingertips hovering near the contour of her cheek.
She wanted to get closer, but she was afraid a clumsy touch would wake her.
A-Yan, she thought silently, becoming bolder since the other woman couldn’t hear her. I think… I like you even more than I did yesterday.
Her heart was beating very fast.
She turned her face away slightly, as if she had confessed out loud. Amidst her nervousness, she peeked out of the corner of her eye to observe the reaction.
The woman was still deep in sleep, but she reached out an arm and accurately pulled her by the waist, as if she wasn’t used to the emptiness in her arms.
Xu Zhiyi kissed her cheek, her voice barely a whisper. Goodnight.
…
Notice: All teachers, please come to the conference room for a meeting at 4:00 PM today.
When Xu Zhiyi opened her eyes, her phone was buzzing incessantly. She replied Received in the group and immediately rubbed her eyes to get up.
A-Yan, why didn’t you wake me? I overslept.
She followed the aroma to the kitchen and hugged the woman from behind like a koala.
It isn’t even eight o’clock yet. Besides, don’t you guys have no clock-in system?
Pei Qingyan placed a fried egg into a sandwich and freed a hand to rub the top of her head. Here, breakfast is ready.
It smells so good. Xu Zhiyi reluctantly let go of her and went to the sink to wash two pairs of chopsticks. Your cooking has improved so much.
Because I have to cook for my wife, I naturally don’t dare to be too clumsy.
The woman handed her the plate. Try it.
Xu Zhiyi cooperatively took a large bite. The softness of the bread paired with the fresh vegetables made for an exceptionally refreshing taste. It’s delicious.
Seeing this, the other woman clearly breathed a sigh of relief, her eyes brightening slightly.
I was worried you wouldn’t like it.
I remember the first time you cooked for me, I even ate half a bowl. Xu Zhiyi opened a carton of milk and handed it to her, unable to stop the smile on her lips.
We were only in middle school back then. You suddenly had the whim to try cooking and burnt the ribs. Plus, you used sugar instead of salt. I ate for a long time without even realizing they were ribs.
The scene of Pei Qingyan stuttering an apology to her afterward flashed before her eyes, and her smile grew even softer. I still remember that the reason you wanted to cook for me was because I never had a full meal at home. You somehow found out that day and insisted I eat something.
So, I was actually very happy during that meal. She hooked her pinky finger with the woman’s. It has been the same every time since then.
The taste wasn’t the most important part; she could feel the other woman’s heart, to the point where even the aftertaste was sweet.
Before leaving, she was caught by the woman again, the familiar sense of pressure sinking from the tip of her tongue into her heart.
If we kiss like this every day, will my lips get chapped? She thought somewhat dazed.
…
When she stepped into the office, Xu Zhiyi was surprised to find it bustling with activity. Her colleagues, who usually kept their heads down for research, were discussing something animatedly, their expressions filled with excitement.
She rarely arrived late, and she had intended to read some literature first, but their conversation caught her attention.
What are you talking about? What happened to Professor Zhang?
Hearing the familiar name, she couldn’t help but put down her mouse and join the discussion.
Exactly, Professor Zhang was furious.
Qian Hui sighed with emotion. Didn’t Zhou Bo target your student before? After the situation was verified, his permissions here were immediately revoked. As a result, many other teachers in the school were dissatisfied with him and took this opportunity to strike, telling Professor Zhang that this man only cares about his own profit…
To put it simply, the students he was supposed to help supervise were all delayed in their graduation without exception. One of the boys almost took his own life, but luckily he was talked down in time. This happened just yesterday, and it has had an extremely negative impact on the college and our Research Institute.
Another teacher, feeling that Qian Hui was taking too long to get to the point, took over the conversation:
In short, Zhou Bo has completely run into trouble now. Several students are planning to file complaints against him. If the matter gets too big, he probably won’t be able to stay here for long.
So that’s how it is. Xu Zhiyi seemed to realize something. Then this afternoon’s meeting—
Yeah, it’s mostly to give us a warning so that similar things don’t happen again.
After a few more minutes of small talk, the group returned to their workstations.
Xu Zhiyi sat back down and opened the school’s social media page, searching for traces of yesterday’s incident.
She hadn’t expected that her impulsive report would trigger such a profound butterfly effect, putting Zhou Bo in the crosshairs of everyone.
But this also proved from another angle that sinister people are disliked everywhere; everyone just lacked a reason to act.
Whew.
The online descriptions of the incident were heart-wrenching. After reading the first paragraph, Xu Zhiyi couldn’t bear to look further.
She had also gone through graduate and doctoral studies, especially the latter; her hair fell out in clumps as graduation approached.
She wouldn’t want to experience that kind of pain a second time.
Therefore, when she saw these students, she could often empathize with them, sometimes having to restrain herself from empathizing too much.
Sigh, Teacher Xu, do you think Zhou Bo will be disciplined this time? Qian Hui asked quietly.
It might be difficult.
Xu Zhiyi didn’t fully disclose her thoughts, simply analyzing a bit. The school will definitely try their best to suppress it, and after the heat dies down, probably not many people will pay attention.
I guess so too. Qian Hui shrugged. Luckily we don’t have to work with that guy now, otherwise I’d be really angry.
Yeah, he probably won’t be transferred back in the short term.
Xu Zhiyi reopened her literature interface, pushing the miscellaneous thoughts aside and forcing herself to calm down.
Regardless, the afternoon meeting would provide a result. She wanted to make some progress on her work.
…
At 5:30 PM, the meeting adjourned.
Xu Zhiyi held her notebook and pen, walking slowly at the back.
She declined Qian Hui’s invitation to chat, using the excuse that she had things to do, and returned to the office first.
The content of the meeting was as expected: loud thunder but small raindrops. All key details were vague. Aside from giving them a lecture on ideological and political education, it didn’t serve any practical purpose.
Xu Zhiyi had long anticipated this outcome. It wasn’t that the college or Professor Zhang were intentionally biased toward Zhou Bo, but rather that the person behind him was willing to spend money to settle things.
She wasn’t exactly disappointed, just helpless.
Beep beep!
Not long after she entered her work state, a message from Pei Qingyan popped up, asking what time she would finish work.
I’ll be a bit late today, I might not be able to go to your company.
The woman replied with a simple Okay.
Habitually reminding the other woman to rest and eat, Xu Zhiyi finally felt at ease to immerse herself in her new research. Before she knew it, it was 9:00 PM. When she turned off her computer, she noticed it was pitch black outside.
The night breeze was slightly cool, mixed with the lingering summer heat.
She had just opened her phone app to call a car when her eyes habitually glanced toward the roadside.
Wait, that is—
In the moment she froze, the car lights flashed twice. Pei Qingyan opened the car door and stepped out, her hair fluttering slightly against her face. It felt like an unreal mirage or an exaggerated movie scene, making her disbelieve it while a surge of unexpected joy rose in her heart.
Why are you here? She took two steps at a time and ran over. Have you been waiting long?
The moment she touched the woman, her hanging heart finally settled.
A-Yan…
She suddenly fell silent, quietly feeling the woman’s warm body temperature surrounding her. The fatigue of a busy day vanished in an instant.
I haven’t been waiting long, about half an hour.
The woman’s deep voice made the tips of her ears turn red. I guessed you were still at work, so I stopped by to pick you up and go back together.
You must be tired, right? Come on, let’s go home.
Perhaps because her tone had a reassuring power, Xu Zhiyi obediently handed her hand to her. Her brain fell into a brief, chaotic blankness, wanting to think of nothing.
She rarely trusted someone so wholeheartedly. Her heart was so full of love it felt like it couldn’t hold any more.
When the woman leaned over to fasten her seatbelt, she quietly looked up, her lips brushing against the elegant curve of the other’s jaw, leaving an irregular kiss mark.
She would never tire of that elegant sandalwood scent, no matter how many times she smelled it.
I don’t want to go home. Relying on being favored, Xu Zhiyi willfully slipped her fingers into the gaps between the woman’s. We’ve been married for so long, yet you haven’t taken me to see your parents.
Even during her teenage years when she was inseparable from Pei Qingyan, the number of times she had seen the other’s parents could be counted on one hand. Today, for some reason, she thought of this and used it as an excuse.
I can take you to see them now.
The woman chuckled meaningfully, smoothing a stray hair near her ear. They will like you very much.
Why?
Because I talk about you every day. After hearing it so many times, they naturally think you are unique, the kind of person one couldn’t find even with a lantern…
I’m not going anymore. Xu Zhiyi suddenly felt a bit downcast, muttering, I’m not as good as you say.
Silly wife.
The woman cupped her face, her eyes dark with a hidden fire, not allowing her even a moment to look away. But you are quite cute like this.
You! Xu Zhiyi had no way to deal with her, feeling her whole body heating up under those focused eyes. In the next second, her questioning words were swallowed by a forceful kiss, turning into intermittent moans.
When the woman didn’t restrain her desires, she was like a beast that only knew how to attack, making it difficult for her to withstand, nearly melting into the other’s breath.
Finally, when her eyes were misty with tears, Pei Qingyan slightly let go of her, a burning kiss falling on her forehead. We’ll go visit another day. Let’s go home and rest today.
Alright.
By the time Xu Zhiyi dizzily agreed, she realized too late that she was the one who had started the topic.
She turned to look out the window, just in time to see the crimson flush rising on her cheeks.
…
Before going to bed that night, she couldn’t help but share what had happened at the Research Institute today.
…Sometimes, I wonder if I’m being too idealistic. She stared at the ceiling, the image of Zhou Bo’s restrained yet smug smile flashing before her eyes, an inexplicable fire rising in her heart. The whole thing, from start to finish, didn’t have a single part that felt right.
It’s not that I’m looking for some grand, satisfying conclusion. After all, such a terrible result should naturally lead to punishment. But they called it a serious disciplinary action when it was actually just a verbal warning. It feels like punching a bale of cotton; it has no actual effect. Next time, things will just be the same as they were.
Xu Zhiyi sighed, but it only lasted a second. I want to do something, more or less. Zhou Bo might have escaped this time, but he might not next time. If he keeps acting this way, he will eventually show a weakness.
Mhm, Pei Qingyan nodded seriously. I support you.
You said the same thing last time.
Xu Zhiyi glanced at her. As her mood brightened, she couldn’t help but expose her.
I support whatever my wife does. The woman’s response was to lean over, hugging her as naturally as breathing.
You… Xu Zhiyi couldn’t help but soften her attitude under this offensive, leaning into the crook of her arm. So, A-Yan, this is also the reason why I’ve always been reluctant to have you come find me at the Research Institute.
Mhm, I know.
The woman’s tone wasn’t displeased; instead, the end of her sentence rose, suggesting she was in a good mood. You want to rely on your own efforts to gain titles, achieve results, and even move to better platforms. I also know that my wife is very excellent, much better than me in terms of scientific research.
When I went out of my way to give Zhou Bo a warning and have him transferred, it wasn’t because I didn’t trust your ability. It was because I wanted those people to know that they can’t mess with you. I don’t want you to suffer even a bit of grievance outside—no, not even half a bit.
Pei Qingyan became uncharacteristically serious, every word laced with coldness. In an instant, she transformed back into the cold, aloof President Pei.
Xu Zhiyi stared at her blankly, her heart feeling as if a handful of honey had been sprinkled over it. The initial taste was sweet, and the aftertaste was a long-lasting sweetness.
A-Yan, I didn’t know you thought that way before—
Now you know. The woman leaned against her ear, her tone gentle.
Mhm, I know.
Xu Zhiyi repeated, her eyelashes trembling slightly. Tomorrow, if there is time, let’s go see your parents.
Have you made up your mind?
Mhm, I have to see them sooner or later. She answered firmly, using it to hide her inner unease.
Don’t worry, they will definitely like you.
Before sleeping, the woman asked for a long goodnight kiss, so long that it almost stirred up desire.
…
It was a sunny day, and the air was dry and hot. Walking outside for even a moment would leave one drenched in sweat.
Before her lunch break, Xu Zhiyi searched online for posts about giving gifts to elders, but she couldn’t find anything she liked after picking for a long time.
She couldn’t help but think back to before she left this morning, when she had specifically discussed this issue with Pei Qingyan.
Do you really want to know? The woman pondered for a moment, not answering immediately.
Of course.
Seeing that she was still thinking, Xu Zhiyi couldn’t help but draw out her voice. Tell me, A-Yan.
You have to let me kiss you. The woman wavered slightly, her fingertips brushing over her moist lips as she made a new request.
In an instant, her desire for knowledge overcame her shame. Xu Zhiyi simply sat astride the other woman’s lap, her lips lightly touching the woman’s cool ones.
She had originally intended to just touch and be done with it, but the woman grabbed her waist, pulling her close for a greedy demand.
When the zipper of her dress was halfway down, Xu Zhiyi hurriedly pressed the woman’s hand, her breathing scattered. You said only one kiss.
Alright. Pei Qingyan regretfully helped her pull the zipper back up, reluctantly rubbing against her neck again. Is it really not okay? Wife.
I have to go to work.
Xu Zhiyi gave her a shy, reproachful look and said softly without any real threat, What do Mom and Dad like?
Hmm… The woman seemed truly stumped, deliberating for a long time. Just buy a box of fruit from the supermarket.
That was as good as saying nothing.
—She was being played again. Xu Zhiyi turned her head away in anger, not wanting to talk to her. But this determination only lasted for five minutes before vanishing when the woman pitifully called out Wife.
Before she could despise her own soft-heartedness, she was held by the other woman and teased for a long time.
As a result, she arrived more than ten minutes later than usual.
Xiaohui, would it be too cheap if I brought a box of fruit? Xu Zhiyi opened various gift lists, feeling a faint throbbing in her temples. But I really don’t know what to buy. And my partner’s family, well, they are quite well-off.
Gifts don’t necessarily have to be expensive. Qian Hui understood and offered advice from the side. Since she said a box of fruit is fine, just buy a box of imported cherries… She couldn’t possibly lie to you about this.
I’ll try.
Xu Zhiyi hesitated for a long time, a lingering sense of nervousness always hovering in her heart.
She didn’t want the other’s parents to look down on her, nor did she want to make things difficult for Pei Qingyan because of a lack of etiquette.
There didn’t seem to be a perfect solution.
…
In the afternoon, as they headed toward the outskirts of the city, she looked at the scenery flying past the window, wishing the car would go even slower.
Wife, you’re shaking. Pei Qingyan adjusted the air conditioning to the lowest setting and handed her a blanket. Are you cold?
I’m not cold.
Xu Zhiyi was too embarrassed to say she was nervous. She hadn’t felt this way in many years.
Then I’ll drive a bit faster so we can have dinner together later.
The woman added worriedly, Tell me immediately if you feel uncomfortable in any way.
Alright.
Xu Zhiyi curled up in her seat and closed her eyes like an ostrich.
The sound of the wind whistling outside, the steady breathing of the woman beside her, and the thumping of her own heart unknowingly converged into a single point, exploding like fireworks.
A-Yan, I— Seeing that they were almost there, she opened her mouth, then paused hesitantly. It’s nothing.
Don’t worry, wife. My parents will definitely like you, I can swear it.
If I find out you’re just coaxing me, you’ll be in trouble when we get back. Xu Zhiyi intentionally spoke harshly. Seeing that the other woman was still full of confidence, her mood seemed to be infected, and she gradually calmed down.
They were already here; there was no way back. She could only suppress her uneasy heart and watch as the car drove into the garden.
We’re here.
Pei Qingyan led her through the main entrance of the villa. Upon entering, she saw a huge living room with a whole wall covered in antique collections.
There was no one in the house. The excessive silence made Xu Zhiyi feel even more at a loss. She stood there holding the box of fruit, not knowing where to put it.
Let me.
The woman easily took it and took the initiative to put the things on the balcony.
They might have gone out for a trip and might not be back. Sensing her wife’s unease, she spoke to comfort her.
Does that mean they could come back at any time? Hearing this, Xu Zhiyi became even more nervous.
Maybe. Pei Qingyan suppressed a smile and acted as if nothing was wrong as she pulled her upstairs. Let’s rest for a bit first, wife.
Xu Zhiyi gripped her skirt, her palms a bit damp, and her hands were shaking imperceptibly. The first thing she did upon entering the room was to tidy her appearance in front of the full-length mirror, asking the woman a question she had already asked ten times, Do I look okay?
Pei Qingyan didn’t answer. Suddenly, she picked her up from behind, and the two of them fell onto the bed together.
It’s messed up again… Xu Zhiyi was startled and was about to sit up, but she was held down firmly by the other woman. It’s fine. My wife looks good no matter what.
The magnetic voice made her heart itch.
By the time she realized it, the woman had skillfully unzipped her dress. Her hot breath made her skin turn red.
What if Mom and Dad come back…
It’s fine. Pei Qingyan took the opportunity to press her down, lowering her head to swallow her breath. Her soft tongue rubbed in circles, occasionally probing into her open teeth for a deep suck.
Wu… A-Yan…
Xu Zhiyi was kissed until she couldn’t speak. A wet sensation spread from the corner of her mouth, and the sound of sticky water came in wave after wave, as if trying to wash her away in the tide.
Even though it was just a kiss, she seemed to lose all her will to resist, allowing the woman’s breath to penetrate deep.
If it was Pei Qingyan, she was willing to play along.
…
At dinner time, Xu Zhiyi faintly heard voices coming from downstairs, which abruptly extinguished her dazed sleepiness.
A-Yan, is there a sound outside?
Mhm. The woman responded lazily, forming a sharp contrast with her nervousness. You can sleep a bit longer.
No, help me up quickly.
Xu Zhiyi pushed the soreness of her body to the back of her mind and hurriedly changed her clothes. While sitting at the dressing table to touch up her makeup, she caught a glimpse of the woman’s focused gaze out of the corner of her eye. Every inch of her exposed skin felt completely hot.
Haven’t you seen enough? she scolded.
Mhm, not enough. Pei Qingyan rubbed her waist. Although it seemed like a massage to relieve fatigue, after a few strokes, Xu Zhiyi’s body immediately went soft, leaning into her arms as if she had no bones.
In the mirror, the possessiveness in the other’s eyes was clearly visible.
Alright, stop teasing me. She bit her lip in distress, racking her brain to figure out how to cover the strawberry marks on her neck.
Unfortunately, they were numerous and dense.
Xu Zhiyi slapped the other woman in annoyance. I told you to restrain yourself, why did you still…
She felt flustered. Fortunately, more marks were covered by her clothes, so she didn’t truly get angry.
But even so, when she went downstairs with the woman, her legs were soft.
What if Pei Qingyan’s parents don’t like me?
This thought uncontrollably popped into her head.
Because she had been treated coldly by her own parents as a child, Xu Zhiyi placed much more importance on this aspect. Of course, the main reason was that she didn’t want Pei Qingyan to be caught in the middle.
…
They will definitely like you.
The words the woman had emphasized several times seemed to have come true.
The kind attitude of Father and Mother Pei made Xu Zhiyi feel somewhat overwhelmed by the favor. More importantly, from their first meeting, she could read a look of satisfaction in their eyes.
Could it be that Pei Qingyan’s ability to fool people was truly that powerful?
She sat at the table, feeling the atmosphere of a home for the first time in a long while. Even the words Mom and Dad that slipped out of her mouth carried some genuine emotion.
Zhiyi, come here, I want to say a few words to you.
After dinner, when she took the initiative to stand up and clear the dishes, she was gently called over by Mother Pei.
Alright. Xu Zhiyi obediently followed her to the living room, feeling her heart, which had just settled, hang in the air again.
She went over her actions just now in her mind again and again, and only breathed a sigh of relief when she found no flaws.
Don’t be nervous, it’s just a chat. Mother Pei comforted her. I mainly wanted to talk to you about A-Yan.
What happened to A-Yan?
The way we educated her since she was a child was to let her be. Plus, she is a very independent child; she never let us worry about anything. Thinking about it, the only thing we ever pressured her about was her marriage.
Mother Pei seemed to fall into a memory, remaining silent for a moment. But A-Yan’s answer to us was always the same: she would marry no one but you. Seeing that we couldn’t persuade her, we gave up. Later, she suddenly told us she was getting married, and it was a political marriage. Once we heard you had returned to the country, how could we not understand?
But after registering the marriage, she refused to bring you to see us. She said she was afraid we would scare you away, and she emphasized over and over again that we should watch our attitude. Today, when she brought you back, she also gave us several warnings in advance. Mother Pei was somewhat helpless. A-Yan can be a bit stubborn sometimes, but her taste is quite good. Among all her childhood playmates, she was only ever attached to you…
Xu Zhiyi’s face turned slightly red as she listened. Suddenly, her skin felt a cool touch. A translucent bracelet was quietly hanging on her wrist, making her skin look snow-white.
Mom, this is?
When you got married, I didn’t have time to prepare a gift. This bracelet has some history; it was given to me by A-Yan’s grandmother, and now I’m giving it to you.
After chatting for a while longer, the harmonious conversation finally came to an end when Pei Qingyan came over to urge them several times.
The bracelet is nice, it suits you. The first thing the woman did after sitting down beside her was to grab her wrist and examine it closely.
Xu Zhiyi hurriedly pulled her hand back and lowered her voice. Mhm, I like it very much too.
That’s good. Pei Qingyan knew she was thin-skinned and didn’t tease her, suggesting, Do you want to go out for a walk? I’ll show you around.
Alright.
Compared to just sitting there, she preferred to take a walk in the spring-filled garden.
A-Yan…
After taking a few steps, she pinched the woman’s fingertips and shook them lightly, her tone so soft it was like she was acting spoiled. I’m very happy.
Not nervous anymore?
Mhm, because you arranged everything. Xu Zhiyi’s lips curved upward, and the bracelet on her wrist made a tinkling sound.
She could feel the woman’s hand gripping hers with some force, but not enough to hurt her.
What matters is whether you like it. Pei Qingyan said gently. Only if you like it does my doing these things have meaning.
Xu Zhiyi’s response was a kiss as light as a dragonfly touching the water.
I like you, A-Yan. Under the night sky, she threw herself into the other’s arms, the sound of cicadas drowning out her heartbeat.
I like you so much.
They didn’t seem like a newly married couple, but rather like a pair of lovers deeply in love.
When Xu Zhiyi was carried to the pavilion, she could just see the scattered lights coming from the second floor of the villa.
She couldn’t help but think of what Mother Pei had said and asked the question that was on her mind. A-Yan, why did you choose to play with me when we were little?
She still remembered the rabbit plushie and the way the other woman had stood up for her with a stern face.
Maybe I thought you were like that rabbit. The woman laughed softly, her chest vibrating with pleasure. Even if you were to be bullied, you could only be bullied by me.
You!
Xu Zhiyi turned her face away and was only coaxed by the other woman for a long time before her brow gradually smoothed out.
In the future… if there’s nothing else going on, I can come back with you. she said in a low voice.