Cheng Zhinan crossed his arms, “When I woke up and found you weren’t beside me, why did you come out?”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Black is still adjusting to this new place. I heard it whimpering outside while I was sleeping and knew it must be scared, so I thought I’d come keep it company. Before I knew it, I fell asleep.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Planning to sleep here tonight?”

 

Xiang Yuan glanced at the time, “You go back to bed first. It’s late, don’t let this affect your schedule tomorrow.”

 

Cheng Zhinan laughed instead of getting angry.

 

On its very first day here, Black had already learned to compete for affection.

 

At that moment, it whimpered and changed sleeping positions, nestling comfortably in Xiang Yuan’s embrace.

 

Cheng Zhinan stepped forward and scooped Black out of Xiang Yuan’s arms.

 

Xiang Yuan was startled, “Cheng Zhinan…”

 

“I’ll keep it company. You go back to the bedroom and sleep.”

 

“But…”

 

“It’s fine. I’ll bond with it. It shouldn’t have any objections.”

 

And so.

 

Xiang Yuan watched as Doctor Cheng, wearing a black bathrobe that partially revealed his chest, placed Black against his chest muscles and prepared to sleep.

 

Having suddenly changed companions, Black quickly adapted.

 

Leaning against the man’s warm chest, it soon closed its eyes and fell asleep.

 

It was too late, and Xiang Yuan just wanted to get some sleep quickly.

 

But that brief glance had accidentally caught sight of Cheng Zhinan’s chest muscles.

 

For a moment, Xiang Yuan couldn’t decide whether to envy Cheng Zhinan or envy Black.

 

Thanks to having company, Black remained particularly quiet throughout the night.

 

When Xiang Yuan woke up the next day, she found Cheng Zhinan had just returned home.

 

He was holding a leash and carrying breakfast he’d bought for her. Black, having exercised vigorously early in the morning, was panting heavily and rushing to the dining area for water.

 

Xiang Yuan looked at him sleepily, “You’re up this early?”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Yeah, was worried it might feel cooped up at home, so took it out for a walk. Brought you breakfast while I was at it.”

 

Xiang Yuan sniffed the air, “Smells delicious.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “You’re up early today too.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Probably because we have a new family member. Feel like there’s something on my mind, so wanted to get up early and check.”

 

Cheng Zhinan placed the breakfast on the table, “No need to worry. When I have time, I’ll take care of its daily routine. Come eat first.”

 

Xiang Yuan smiled shyly, “I feel like you’re much more responsible than I am.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “As you just said, it’s a new family member.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Mm.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Since it’s a new family member, whether I take care of it or you take care of it makes no difference. No need to be overly concerned about it with me.”

 

Besides, he woke up early every day, maintaining an extremely disciplined lifestyle. Taking the dog out for walks wasn’t particularly burdensome for him.

 

While eating breakfast, Xiang Yuan’s phone buzzed.

 

After reading for a few seconds, she simply replied “OK” and said to Cheng Zhinan:

 

“Doctor Cheng, I might need to go out today.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Where to?”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Recently, family members have been having minor health issues. My mom is superstitious and thinks we should visit the temple to pray. I’ll go with her this time – it’ll be like a little outing to relax.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “You’ve just recovered, so be careful when you go out. Don’t overexert yourself.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Okay, I know.”

Toward the end of the meal, Cheng Zhinan placed her favorite sesame balls in front of her and asked gently:

 

“Just the two of you today?”

 

“Yes,” Xiang Yuan replied, puzzled. “Why do you ask?”

 

Cheng Zhinan shook his head. “Nothing, just asking casually.”

 

It wasn’t that he was afraid she’d inexplicably gain another close male friend it was just

 

Cheng Zhinan pondered for a long time internally.

 

In the end, he couldn’t come up with a good excuse to justify himself.

 

A few seconds later.

 

He resigned himself with some relief.

 

Forget it it was better to admit that he did mind other men being around her.

 

–

 

After tidying up briefly, Xiang Yuan picked up You Mei in the car.

 

You Mei sat in the passenger seat, studying her expression. “I thought you’d still be asleep, but you replied to my message surprisingly fast.”

 

Xiang Yuan drove while responding:

 

“Is that the image your daughter has in your mind?”

 

You Mei: “I’d hoped marriage might change you, but with Zhinan spoiling you, not only haven’t you improved, you’ve gotten worse.”

 

You Mei said this more in a teasing manner.

 

Before the marriage, she and Xiang Yuan’s father had been determined to find a son-in-law who would dote on their daughter. Though she complained verbally about Cheng Zhinan being too indulgent, inwardly she was quite pleased.

 

Xiang Yuan: “Yes, yes, in your eyes, that son-in-law of yours is the best I’m practically losing my place in this family.”

 

You Mei: “How’s your relationship been since marriage?”

 

Xiang Yuan: “It’s alright.”

 

You Mei frowned, dissatisfied with the answer. “What do you mean by ‘alright’?”

 

Xiang Yuan chuckled. “Just alright. We married through a matchmaking arrangement we’re not some passionately-in-love couple. We haven’t known each other long and don’t understand each other deeply yet. How could we instantly develop true love?”

 

Sensitive by nature, You Mei felt her daughter’s words carried a hint of resentment. “I set you up on that blind date for your own good. You weren’t interested in dating freely, and there were no suitable prospects around you. Look at the men in your social circle hardly any decent ones. They’re either idle rich kids or those who fool around. If we’d really let you choose your own partner, who knows what kind of person you might have brought home.”

 

Xiang Yuan quickly reassured her: “I’m not blaming you. Besides, marrying Cheng Zhinan was my own decision. I chose him because I saw his qualities don’t overthink it.”

 

You Mei: “Anyway, I think Zhinan is a fine young man. He handles everything inside and outside the household since your marriage and is so patient with you. Don’t take advantage of him learn to be more considerate and don’t always act like a spoiled young lady.”

 

Xiang Yuan smiled faintly. “If I act spoiled, it’s because you and Dad spoiled me. How could I change that overnight?”

 

“You…” You Mei was exasperated. “By the way, your father really liked that gift your father-in-law sent recently. He said we should get both families together for a meal sometime soon.”

 

“Sure.”

 

“Oh, and…”

 

“Hmm?”

 

You Mei cleared her throat lightly. “Have your in-laws been pressuring you about having children?”

 

“Not yet.”

 

“If they start pushing later, just say you’re not ready. You haven’t been married long you should enjoy your life first. Don’t let them talk you into anything rashly.”

Xiang Yuan’s smile widened. “Don’t worry, they’re not that kind of people.”

 

You Mei had an open mind and particularly doted on children, naturally unwilling to let Xiang Yuan experience the troubles of childbirth and parenting too early.

 

You Mei: “What about Zhinan? Does he like children?”

 

Xiang Yuan: “I actually don’t know about that. Mainly because I’ve never asked him that question, but I see he’s quite adept at taking care of Black. He’ll probably be a responsible father in the future.”

 

You Mei: “You… how can you compare a child to a puppy? If Zhinan hears this, be careful or he’ll get angry with you.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Doctor Cheng isn’t that petty.”

 

You Mei: “Finding a husband like him is your blessing. Don’t make him unhappy. With Zhinan’s temperament, he rarely gets angry. If he does get angry, it means you’ve truly gone too far.”

 

Xiang Yuan was getting a headache from her mother’s nagging. “Alright, I understand. I’ll definitely treat him well in the future. If you keep lecturing me, I won’t accompany you anymore.”

 

You Mei: “…”

 

When the mother and daughter arrived at the temple, they prayed sincerely. Xiang Yuan was quite lucky and even drew a highly auspicious fortune slip.

 

The temple was surrounded by mountains on all sides, perfect for enjoying the scenery.

 

The last time Xiang Yuan came here for hiking was when she had fractured her bone.

 

It had been a long time since she last visited.

 

You Mei was inside chatting with the monks, which took some time.

 

Xiang Yuan found it boring to wait alone, so she decided to stroll around nearby.

 

The recent good weather had attracted many young people to the temple area, combining their visit with mountain hiking and scenery appreciation.

 

Xiang Yuan bought an expensive bowl of beef noodles in the scenic area. It looked quite presentable, though the flavor was lacking.

 

Halfway through eating, she lost interest and put down her chopsticks.

 

Suddenly, a bottle of water appeared beside her. She turned to look and found a rather handsome young man standing next to her.

 

The young man appeared to be a college student, probably around Xiang Ming’s age. He smiled shyly and said to Xiang Yuan very politely and gentlemanly:

 

“This is for you.”

 

Xiang Yuan glanced at the water bottle on the table.

 

The young man’s intention was somewhat obvious he probably mistook Xiang Yuan for someone his own age and wanted to ask for her contact information for potential future development.

 

Soon, the young man took out his phone. “Um, could we…”

 

Xiang Yuan stopped him with a bright smile. “Sorry, I’m married.”

 

“Married…?” The young man clearly seemed doubtful.

 

Xiang Yuan cleverly took out a photo of Cheng Zhinan. “I’m not lying. This is my husband. Quite handsome, right?”

 

“…”

 

She really didn’t have many photos of Cheng Zhinan saved in her phone.

 

This ID photo of his was quite meaningful.

 

Even in a formal ID photo, the man still had dashing eyebrows and bright eyes, with superior, three-dimensional facial features that were quite impressive.

 

Sure enough, after seeing the photo, the young man became somewhat hesitant.

 

Since Xiang Yuan had lost her appetite anyway, she left the water bottle on the table and walked away.

 

When she returned to where she had been earlier, You Mei happened to come out. She was mumbling to herself and looked very pleased.

 

“What were you talking about inside just now?” Xiang Yuan asked her.

 

You Mei couldn’t contain her happiness. “I asked them, and they said these are just minor setbacks. There will be nothing but good things in the future, especially for you. You’re sure to have smooth sailing, with success in both family and career.”

Xiang Yuan thought her mother’s superstition wasn’t entirely bad at least it provided some spiritual comfort.

 

However, the sky was gradually darkening, showing signs of impending rain.

 

They had been wandering around the area all day. Xiang Yuan looked up at the sky and asked, “Is it going to rain?”

 

No sooner had she spoken than the rain arrived.

 

A torrential downpour suddenly began. Not wanting to bother with the hassle, the mother and daughter decided to stay at a nearby hotel.

 

Xiang Yuan had her own room. The first thing she did upon entering was take a shower.

 

After her shower, she realized it was getting late and she should call Cheng Zhinan to check in.

 

She lazily leaned against the bed, initially considering a video call but unsure if he was busy. In the end, she settled for a simple phone call.

 

The call was answered almost immediately.

 

Xiang Yuan was in good spirits. “Doctor Cheng, are you off work?”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Yes, I’m off work and have already taken the dog for a walk.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Did you get caught in the rain?”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Fortunately not. It only started raining after I got home.”

 

Xiang Yuan sighed softly. “I might not be able to come back tonight. The rain here is really heavy. My mom and I got a room at a nearby hotel. We’ll head back tomorrow once the rain stops.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Alright, safety comes first.”

 

Alone in her room with nothing to do, Xiang Yuan found herself reluctant to hang up, even though there wasn’t anything particularly important to discuss.

 

She rarely called Cheng Zhinan under normal circumstances, only reaching out when there was something specific to communicate.

 

His voice was very pleasant.

 

In the quiet, cozy room, accompanied by the sound of the heavy rain outside, talking to her partner felt unexpectedly romantic.

 

Xiang Yuan had just showered, and her lazy demeanor caught Cheng Zhinan’s attention.

 

“Lying in bed?”

 

“Doctor Cheng is so sharp. How did you guess right away?” Xiang Yuan chuckled playfully.

 

The man on the phone cleared his throat softly. “Your voice just sounds familiar. You often have this tone when you’re sleepy.”

 

“Yeah, it’s pouring outside. I got a bit wet, so I took a shower as soon as I got to the room. Now I feel all warm and cozy, not cold at all.”

 

“Is your mom in the same room with you?”

 

“No, she’s next door. She’s not used to sharing a bed with me worried I’ll disturb her by playing on my phone.”

 

“If you’re tired, you can rest for a while.” Cheng Zhinan’s voice was gentle, with some faint rustling noises in the background.

 

Curious, Xiang Yuan perked up her ears. “What’s that sound on your end?”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “I was just teaching Black some basic commands. He’s very smart and picks things up quickly, so I’m giving him a reward now.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Really? Doctor Cheng is amazing.”

 

Cheng Zhinan paused briefly, his lips curving slightly. “Still not sleepy?”

 

Xiang Yuan: “I’ll sleep in a bit.”

 

Finally,

 

he initiated a topic.

 

“What did you do over there today?”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Just wandered around, prayed for blessings, enjoyed the scenery. I also listened to you and didn’t overexert myself. My mom even did a fortune-telling for me and said I’ll have good luck in the future. But there was one thing today that upset me.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Oh?”

 

Perhaps infected by the energy in her tone, his voice softened even more.

 

Xiang Yuan said dejectedly:

 

“I had a bowl of really awful noodles in the scenic area, and they were expensive too. So disappointing.”

 

He hadn’t expected that to be the thing bothering her.

Xiang Yuan pouted, “Fine. Since Doctor Cheng is trying so hard to cheer me up, I won’t stay angry.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “Any other interesting stories?”

 

Xiang Yuan pondered.

 

Should she mention being flirted with by a young puppy at the scenic spot today?

 

The fact that a married woman could still attract attention from male college students proved she still had charm.

 

But

 

This was definitely not something to tell Cheng Zhinan.

 

What if he got jealous again and repeated last time’s car incident?

 

Xiang Yuan wisely chose to keep quiet.

 

Xiang Yuan: “There were many interesting things, but I can’t recall them right now.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “That’s normal. After a whole day out, your brain needs rest.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “So I need to recharge now.”

 

In the living room.

 

The man paused his pet-feeding motion.

 

“Recharge?”

 

Xiang Yuan sweetened her tone, deliberately teasing him.

 

“Talking with you is how I recharge.”

 

“Is this some new trendy chat style?”

 

“Well… you could think of it that way.”

 

Then.

 

Cheng Zhinan set down the pet treats, focusing entirely on their call.

 

“So, you need me to help you fall asleep now?”

 

This time, it was Xiang Yuan’s turn to be stunned.

 

When did Cheng Zhinan become so smooth?

 

She rolled over, “How do you plan to help me sleep?”

 

“…You can make any request.”

 

“How can I request that? You should use your own creativity.”

 

“…”

 

For a long while after.

 

Cheng Zhinan remained deep in thought.

 

Xiang Yuan initially waited patiently, but gradually grew impatient.

 

She finally spoke up, “Forget it, I’ll teach you.”

 

“Alright, tell me.” The man sounded ready to learn.

 

“Just say ” Xiang Yuan cleared her throat, mischief in her voice, “Baby, I miss you. When are you coming home?”

 

The man’s Adam’s apple bobbed, “What else?”

 

“Have you never called me baby? Not even ‘wife’?”

 

“No.” Cheng Zhinan answered truthfully.

 

“Tch…” Xiang Yuan secretly complained about his lack of romance, realizing she’d have to train him herself.

 

Xiang Yuan: “Call me baby.”

 

Xiang Yuan: “Wife works too.”

 

Cheng Zhinan remained silent.

 

Xiang Yuan got angry.

 

He wasn’t keeping his promise.

 

He’d clearly agreed earlier.

 

Just as she was about to lose her temper, a deep, husky baritone came through the receiver, wrapping around her ears like an aural spa:

 

“Baby, I miss you so much.”

 

Xiang Yuan froze instantly.

 

She could even picture Cheng Zhinan’s expression while saying this.

 

He must be using that handsome face to deliver such flirtatious words completely deadpan.

 

Forced into it, yet obediently following his wife’s orders.

 

So satisfying.

 

What should she do?

 

She wanted to hear him say even more thrilling, exciting things.

 

But even this much was already affecting her.

 

She’d only known her ears were sensitive before a light breath would make her blush.

 

But

 

Now just this seductive male voice through the receiver was making her heart flutter.

 

She squirmed under the covers, slightly embarrassed. Electric sensations traveled from her eardrums as she lowered her lashes, her laughter reaching Cheng Zhinan’s ears:

 

“Mhm, continue.”

 

Cheng Zhinan: “…”

 

Xiang Yuan: I just love making unreasonable demands [scattering flowers] [starry eyes] [scattering flowers]

 

Doctor Cheng: (seeing right through it) (helpless) (spoiling his wife)