Cheng Zhinan naturally knew today was Sunday.

But he was waiting for Xiang Yuan’s opinion.

He never did anything Xiang Yuan wasn’t willing to do.

She had been running around outside all day yesterday – he didn’t know if she had rested well today.

Cheng Zhinan turned around to face her. “Not tired today?”

Xiang Yuan shook her head honestly. “Not tired.”

She had just finished showering, and her damp hair brushed against his chest.

Not only did Cheng Zhinan not mind, he picked up a strand of her hair with his fingertips. “If you don’t dry your hair, you might catch a cold.”

Xiang Yuan deliberately acted spoiled: “Then you help me dry it.”

Cheng Zhinan took the hairdryer and patiently dried her hair for her.

Xiang Yuan sat on the sofa, simply enjoying Doctor Cheng’s exclusive service.

Cheng Zhinan probably rarely served others like this.

She was likely the first.

She appeared drowsy, her eyes half-closed, perfectly embodying the word “enjoyment.”

Cheng Zhinan looked down at her.

No wonder he always thought Xiang Yuan resembled a cat.

Her expression of enjoyment was no different from a satisfied cat.

As if sensing Cheng Zhinan’s smile, Xiang Yuan secretly opened one eye and asked him, “What are you smiling about?”

“Nothing.” Cheng Zhinan unplugged the hairdryer. “Your hair is dry.”

Xiang Yuan sniffed the ends of her hair. “I suddenly realize your hair-drying skills are pretty good.”

Cheng Zhinan smiled faintly with his back to her. “That means I can do more of this for you in the future.”

Xiang Yuan: “Makes sense.”

“Then now ”

He turned around, one hand in his pocket, and asked seriously, “Is there anything else you need me to help with?”

Xiang Yuan thought for a moment. “I haven’t eaten the cake you bought yet. Can you bring it in for me?”

“Sure.”

Cheng Zhinan brought the cake in for her and placed it in front of her.

Xiang Yuan carefully opened the cake box and found it looked quite presentable.

“The flavor should be good.”

“Try it,” Cheng Zhinan said.

Xiang Yuan picked up a spoon, scooped up a portion and put it in her mouth.

The cake was lemon-flavored. While the sweet taste occupied her taste buds, it wasn’t overly cloying. The fresh lemon flavor was quite special, making her appetite surge and wanting to eat more.

Seeing Xiang Yuan had a good appetite, Cheng Zhinan felt relieved.

It seemed he had bought a flavor she liked.

While tasting the cake, Xiang Yuan praised him, “Doctor Cheng, how do you even know how to pick desserts so well?”

Cheng Zhinan: “…You really like it?”

Xiang Yuan: “Of course, it’s delicious. Do you want to try some too?”

Hearing this, his gaze naturally lowered.

Soon.

The sweet creamy scent drifted toward him.

Xiang Yuan leaned close to him, deliberately tempting him. “I know you’re not very interested in sweets, but you could try it. What if you like it?”

As she leaned forward, a generous view of her chest was revealed.

Voluptuous yet pale and smooth.

Unfortunately, she remained completely unaware, still flaunting the cake in her hand, wanting Cheng Zhinan to taste it too.

Cheng Zhinan unconsciously glanced.

He pressed his lips slightly and averted his eyes.

Seeing his indifferent response, Xiang Yuan felt somewhat deflated.

This man was truly lacking in romance.

She had actively brought it to his lips, yet he remained unmoved.

Truly an icy block.

If she wanted to melt him, it really wouldn’t be easy.

Xiang Yuan was in a bit of a sulky mood, directly stuffing the cream from her spoon into her mouth as she mumbled indistinctly:

“Although I know this is just your personality, if you keep rejecting me, be careful or I’ll…”

Cheng Zhinan: “What would you do?”

Xiang Yuan let out a light hum, but before she could voice her dissatisfaction, the man leaned in, pinching her jaw with one hand. A mint-flavored kiss mixed with the lemony scent of cake instantly filled the space between their lips.

His right hand applied slight pressure, forcing her mouth open as his tongue met hers.

Xiang Yuan’s eyes widened in surprise.

Cheng Zhinan today…

What’s gotten into him?

She was left breathless by his kiss, barely able to form coherent words, the small cake in her hand nearly dropping to the floor.

Through their kiss, Cheng Zhinan tasted the sweetness of the cake.

He lowered his gaze, forehead resting against hers as he temporarily broke the kiss, his voice hoarse with lingering desire. “Now I’ve had a taste.”

Xiang Yuan’s face flushed crimson. “You like eating cake in such an improper way?”

Cheng Zhinan chuckled softly. “If you choose to see it that way, then I’ll be the villain in your heart.”

Perhaps it was because she had been about to utter some threatening words that Cheng Zhinan didn’t want to hear – words that could damage their relationship – that he had so abruptly silenced her.

Xiang Yuan had thought there would be some buffer time in between, never expecting Cheng Zhinan to be so impatient, wanting to jump straight into things now.

Wait…

Shouldn’t there be some emotional connection between them first?

Men and women were truly different.

While she was still thinking about engaging in some flirtatious teasing, Cheng Zhinan already wanted to get straight to the main event.

A man is a man.

And Cheng Zhinan was no exception.

Xiang Yuan felt this lacked romance, mustering her resolve to resist being swayed by his earlier kiss, determined to fight for more flirting time.

“At least let me finish my cake first.”

“Alright,” Cheng Zhinan agreed.

Xiang Yuan bit her spoon, batting her eyelashes as she stared at Cheng Zhinan.

Her mind quickly calculated.

How long had it been since they’d had marital intimacy?

No wonder she’d been having wandering thoughts lately, feeling all restless.

It must be because Doctor Cheng hadn’t been fulfilling his husbandly duties properly.

If the atmosphere became suitable later, she would definitely give him a proper scolding.

From now on, they should stick to their Sunday schedule as planned, with occasional extra sessions thrown in.

What kind of husband neglects his wife like this?

After being starved for so long, every time she saw him standing before her in his white shirt, so proper and serious, her mind automatically drifted to improper thoughts.

The blame lay with him always exuding that aura of restraint, making her crave what she couldn’t have.

Xiang Yuan had to admit – this was exactly her type.

Even if other men threw themselves at her, no matter how handsome or wealthy, she wouldn’t be interested.

Only a man like Doctor Cheng – disciplined yet profound – could make her feel so irresistibly drawn.

Perhaps she was too distracted by her thoughts, unable to focus on eating.

Her crimson lips were dotted with traces of white cream, her pink tongue occasionally visible as she kept glancing toward Cheng Zhinan.

Cheng Zhinan loosened his tie and flicked her forehead.

“Eat your cake properly.”

Xiang Yuan winced and covered her forehead, not understanding why she’d been punished for no reason.

Wasn’t this an unwarranted disaster?

Before she could settle the score with Cheng Zhinan, her phone on the table rang.

Both Cheng Zhinan and she turned their gaze toward the phone.

Xiang Yuan swallowed the last bite of cake and answered the call with one hand, asking, “What is it?”

Ke Hang noticed her muffled voice. “What are you eating?”

“Cake.”

“Eating cake this late? Aren’t you afraid of gaining weight?”

Xiang Yuan deliberately ignored his sarcastic tone. “What do you want?”

Tonight was supposed to be her romantic evening with Cheng Zhinan, and she didn’t want it interrupted casually.

She initially planned to brush him off with a few perfunctory replies, but Ke Hang actually had something important to discuss this time.

Xiang Yuan raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure it’s true?”

Ke Hang chuckled lazily. “Well, since you left your sister with me, I ought to take some responsibility. But she’s grown up now and has her own thoughts. I can’t interfere too much, so I’m letting you know to avoid you accusing me of being useless later.”

Over the years, Xiang Ming had rarely mentioned anything about her love life.

Xiang Yuan had always thought her younger sister was too young to be interested in romance, but it was also possible she simply didn’t share such matters with her family not even with her own sister.

The two chatted for a while, the conversation growing quite lively.

In her focused state, Xiang Yuan didn’t notice the subtle movements behind her.

A meticulously tailored, glossy black tie fell to the floor.

With her back to Cheng Zhinan, she only heard steady footsteps.

Before she could react, the man’s firm, solid arms wrapped around her from behind.

She looked down and saw his rolled-up sleeves and the veins prominent on his arms.

Even without exerting force, the veins on his arms were clearly defined. His palms were slender, simply clasped together in front of her waist, as if he could easily encircle her entire waist with one hand.

Xiang Yuan held her breath, distracted by his actions.

Ke Hang had just asked a question and, receiving no reply, grew puzzled. “Why aren’t you saying anything?”

“Ah… I zoned out for a moment.” Xiang Yuan lightly patted Cheng Zhinan’s arm, signaling that she was on the phone and they could deal with things later.

However, Cheng Zhinan, who was usually the most composed, didn’t listen to her today.

He didn’t withdraw his arms. Instead, upon hearing her words, he pulled her into his embrace.

Holding her phone, she effortlessly sank into the embrace behind her.

From this angle, she couldn’t see Cheng Zhinan’s face, but she could feel her earlobe suddenly enveloped by a warm mouth.

That sensation from last time washed over her again.

Xiang Yuan bit her lip in embarrassment.

What kind of habit was this of Doctor Cheng?

Why did he have to bother her while she was on the phone?

Couldn’t he wait until she finished her gossip?

She hadn’t even finished asking about Xiang Ming’s situation, and here he was sucking and nibbling again. Her mind was completely scattered now.

Perhaps noticing Xiang Yuan’s distraction, he lowered his head to look at her, his eyelashes lightly brushing against her skin. His palm slid upward slightly, touching her lower abdomen, and then his kisses slowly descended, landing on her cheek and the corner of her lips.

Feather-light kisses continuously fell on the corner of her mouth, carrying the lingering scent of cream from earlier.

Xiang Yuan’s breathing grew increasingly rapid until she could no longer bear it. She finally said to Ke Hang over the phone:

“I have something to attend to now, so I won’t chat with you any longer. I’ll call you back tomorrow.”

Ke Hang was puzzled. “Tomorrow? What could you possibly have to do right now?”

Xiang Yuan replied, “Something very important.”

With that, she decisively hung up.

If she hadn’t ended the call, she would have given herself away.

She had restrained herself for so long to prevent any strange sounds from escaping her lips.

If Ke Hang had heard those noises, she might as well forget about showing her face in S City tomorrow.

Just as she turned around, ready to confront Cheng Zhinan, the man proactively spun her back to face him.

Xiang Yuan’s cheeks flushed slightly as she met his gaze.

From this angle, Cheng Zhinan’s features appeared exquisitely handsome.

Bathed in the warm indoor lighting, his skin was pale and cool, his demeanor elegant, and his slender, bony fingers began unbuttoning his shirt one button at a time.

“…” Xiang Yuan swallowed hard. “Don’t think using this tactic will make me forget about what just happened. I was, after all, on the phone with a friend. If anyone had heard what we were doing, what would they think of me? You’re supposed to be a proper person, yet sometimes you act even bolder than ordinary people.”

He continued unbuttoning without pause. “I thought you’d like this.”

Xiang Yuan froze in place.

She’d like this?

What kind of terrible image did she have in Cheng Zhinan’s mind?

What did he take her for?

Just as Xiang Yuan was about to lose her temper, Cheng Zhinan’s kiss descended upon her once more.

Simultaneously, his white shirt fell to the floor.

This time, he cupped Xiang Yuan’s face in his hands and kissed her with earnest intensity.

All the questions Xiang Yuan had nearly blurted out were swallowed back.

So Cheng Zhinan had learned this trick too.

For tonight, she’d let slide what had happened earlier, considering he’d initiated the kiss.

This time.

Cheng Zhinan kissed her gently.

Sitting on the sofa at the same height, he had to lean down considerably to reach her lips.

The way he lowered his head was incredibly sensual.

The height difference made it seem as though he enveloped Xiang Yuan completely.

His tall, broad chest encased the soft, delicate woman before him, creating a beautifully romantic scene.

Xiang Yuan smelled fragrant and felt wonderfully soft against him; being close to her was becoming addictive.

As Cheng Zhinan kissed her, he wondered when exactly he had become increasingly unable to resist her allure.

But right now, he didn’t want to think too much.

Since childhood, he’d always had countless matters to consider and attend to meticulously.

The only time he had ever indulged himself was when he chose his marriage partner.

Even though Xiang Yuan sometimes expressed dissatisfaction with him

She complained he was too rigid, too by-the-book, and lacking in romance.

Yet he wanted to be a husband who could satisfy her.

At least she seemed relatively content with their intimate life.

Tonight, Cheng Zhinan wanted to make her happy.

His body burned with heat, so scorching that Xiang Yuan instinctively retreated.

Cheng Zhinan supported the small of her back, preventing her from tumbling off the sofa.

“What are you afraid of?” His voice was unbearably husky. “It’s not like this is our first time.”

Xiang Yuan blushed with embarrassment, wanting to immediately cover Cheng Zhinan’s mouth.

This man when it came to these matters, he either remained silent or spoke the most provocative words with utter seriousness.

And he seemed completely unaware of it himself.

Cheng Zhinan was well aware of it himself.

Though it wasn’t the first time, Xiang Yuan still felt fragile.

He didn’t want to make her uncomfortable or bring her to tears either.

So he leaned closer, kissing her forehead again. “I’ll be very gentle.”

This assurance brought an intangible sense of comfort.

But as he spoke these reassuring words, Xiang Yuan’s nightgown slipped to the floor.

The color in Cheng Zhinan’s eyes deepened as he attentively traced the curves of her body.

Xiang Yuan smelled particularly fragrant today.

Even more so than the cream pastry she had offered him earlier.

He wasn’t usually one for sweets, but today he found himself making an exception.

“You smell wonderful today,” he said truthfully.

Xiang Yuan’s lips curved slightly.

Only now did she truly understand the allure of a mature man.

His straightforward compliments affected her more deeply than any elaborate sweet talk ever could.

She couldn’t bear hearing Cheng Zhinan say much more, or she’d surrender completely.

So she took slight initiative, returning his kiss as she murmured vaguely:

“Let’s move to the bed.”

Cheng Zhinan rose, effortlessly supporting her with one hand under her hips as he carried her to the bed.

The room lights went off, leaving only the small bedside lamp glowing.

Xiang Yuan leaned over him, her fingers wandering freely. “Doctor Cheng, your physique feels even better than before. Have you been secretly working out behind my back?”

Cheng Zhinan lay flat, breathing heavily as he caught her mischievous hand. “Don’t mess around.”

Xiang Yuan chuckled softly. “You get to tease me, but I can’t tease you?”

That wouldn’t be fair at all.

She intended to give as good as she got.

Her bright, cheerful laughter drew Cheng Zhinan’s complete attention.

Soon enough.

Xiang Yuan learned that some jokes really shouldn’t be made lightly.

Cheng Zhinan’s fair skin showed every mark easily – her sharp nails left several red trails across his chest with just gentle scratches.

They looked particularly indecent.

Having teased him, she received no verbal response, only actions in return.

This time, Xiang Yuan’s laughter completely faded.

Her brows slightly furrowed, she looked somewhat wronged.

“Cheng Zhinan, you… wait a moment.”

Cheng Zhinan took a deep breath. “Wait for what?”

“Whatever it is, just… wait a moment.”

“…”

“Mmm…”

“Hmm?”

“Why aren’t you listening to me?”

“Sorry.”

“I can’t wait.”

Xiang Yuan whimpered slightly, channeling her frustration into physical action.

Several red marks inexplicably appeared on Cheng Zhinan’s smoothly sculpted back.

He seemed completely unbothered, as if feeling no pain at all.

Xiang Yuan took several deep breaths.

At first she resisted somewhat, but gradually her voice changed, and her face flushed with an inexplicable redness.

Cheng Zhinan rarely spoke, only occasionally checking on how she felt.

But even these few inquiries managed to irritate Xiang Yuan.

Xiang Yuan: “You… stop talking so much.”

Thinking he had upset her, Cheng Zhinan fell silent and focused on finding more ways to please her.

Xiang Yuan bit her lower lip tightly.

Damn.

It seemed she shouldn’t casually scold him during such moments next time.

Her eyes shone brightly, the tip of her nose flushed with moisture, her pupils veiled in a faint mist.

The man’s fingers brushed the corner of her eye, seemingly catching a trace of moisture. His voice grew rough. “Why are you crying?”

Xiang Yuan felt as if she were walking on soft cotton candy, ready to float into the sky at any moment.

One second grounded, the next soaring among clouds.

Helpless, she could only cling tightly to Cheng Zhinan.

This intense feeling of attachment made her physically aware that they were truly a married couple.

Her emotions were completely tied to Cheng Zhinan.

Like a thread, sometimes taut, sometimes loose one moment tense, the next relaxed.

Finally.

When a tear fell from the corner of Xiang Yuan’s eye, Cheng Zhinan lowered his head to kiss her, his voice hoarse as he whispered:

“Xiang Yuan, hold me tight.”

…

…

The next day.

While changing his shirt, Cheng Zhinan saw the scratches on his back in the mirror.

Xiang Yuan had shown some restraint, not leaving marks on any other exposed parts of his body.

If his colleagues saw, they would probably tease him about being overly indulgent during the newlywed period.

Although the scratches stung slightly, Cheng Zhinan acted as if nothing was wrong, treating them like marks left by a little cat.

After getting dressed and ready to leave for work, he noticed Xiang Yuan was still sound asleep in bed.

She had been thoroughly exhausted last night, and Cheng Zhinan didn’t want to disturb her sweet dreams, so he moved quietly as he left, careful not to wake her.

Xiang Yuan woke up around ten in the morning.

Upon waking, her sensations were similar to before.

Her waist ached, as if it were about to fall apart.

Xiang Yuan lay in bed for a while, lost in thought.

Last night’s “battle” had lasted nearly three hours three times in one night.

It seemed even more intense than before.

It appeared that because they had missed out on so much recently, Cheng Zhinan had made up for it all in one go.

She didn’t know whether to scold him or thank him.

To be such a meticulous husband he really was a model among husbands.

Xiang Yuan almost gritted her teeth in frustration.

He seemed so proper, yet in bed, he had no sense of restraint.

Although she had been the one to initiate the invitation last night, she never expected Cheng Zhinan to compensate so efficiently.

She threw off the covers, planning to use the bathroom.

The moment she lifted the blanket, she noticed a trail of delicate kiss marks around her ankle, scattered like beautiful, enchanting datura petals.

Memories suddenly flooded her mind.

Fragments from the previous night instantly appeared before Xiang Yuan’s eyes.

Just like in that dream the other day.

Cheng Zhinan had actually left burning kisses near her ankle.

Every time she tried to escape, his strong hands would mercilessly pull her back.

The more Xiang Yuan thought about it, the more embarrassed she felt, and she hurried to the bathroom to freshen up.

When she came out, she noticed Cheng Zhinan had sent her a message.

CZN: 【Awake?】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【Yes.】

CZN: 【You expended a lot of energy last night. I thought you’d sleep longer.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【…】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【Woke up naturally.】

Perhaps sensing her unusual tone, Cheng Zhinan replied after two minutes.

CZN: 【What would you like for lunch? I’ll order for you.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【I have plans at noon, so I won’t be eating at home.】

CZN: 【Okay.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【Doctor Cheng, do you know how long you lasted last night?】

CZN: 【…Not sure.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【Three hours!】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【It’s time you showed some restraint.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【Serious face.jpg】

Her anger seemed to radiate through the screen.

Three hours.

Even the Doctor Cheng in comics wouldn’t dare go on for that long.

Yet the real-life Cheng Zhinan had the audacity to do it.

CZN: 【Was it really that long?】

CZN: 【Sorry, I didn’t keep track of the time.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: “I’m not lying.”

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: “If you don’t believe me, next time I can use my phone to time it for you.”

CZN: “…”

CZN: “No need.”

Xiang Yuan replied with a smiling emoji and tossed her phone aside.

Cheng Zhinan didn’t respond further probably not wanting to add fuel to the fire after seeing that expression.

Given her excessive physical exhaustion, it was normal for her to be a bit irritable, so he decided to bring her some sweet soup tonight.

A moderate amount of sweetness could cheer a girl up this was something Cheng Zhinan understood well.

After hanging up, Xiang Yuan put on makeup and changed clothes.

She had arranged to meet Xiang Ming near her company for lunch.

When Xiang Yuan arrived at the restaurant, Xiang Ming was already waiting at the entrance.

Spotting Xiang Yuan, Xiang Ming waved excitedly.

“Over here, sis!”

Xiang Yuan walked at a leisurely pace until she reached Xiang Ming.

Noticing faint dark Marks under Xiang Yuan’s eyes, Xiang Ming asked suspiciously:

“Did you stay up late last night? You look drained.”

Xiang Yuan: “Hmm… maybe I slept a bit late.”

Xiang Ming: “Shouldn’t brother-in-law keep you in check? Staying up every night if Mom finds out, she’ll nag you again.”

Xiang Yuan: “…”

The real culprit is that Cheng Zhinan, she grumbled inwardly.

Xiang Ming led her inside. “I came here with colleagues a couple days ago the food’s great. Their specialty dishes are amazing. Perfect chance to try them with you today.”

Just then, a server handed them the menu.

Xiang Yuan browsed the dishes:

“How are you getting along with your colleagues?”

Xiang Ming: “Pretty well!”

Xiang Yuan rubbed her nose. “Any handsome guys at work?”

Xiang Ming wore full makeup almost daily, left early and returned late, fully dedicated to her job no wonder she had no time to care for Black at home.

Xiang Ming: “Of course there are. A company this big would be pathetic without a few quality options.”

Xiang Yuan smirked. “Found one you like?”

Xiang Ming: “Hey, why so nosy? Hurry and order it’s on me today.”

Seeing her evade the question, Xiang Yuan went ahead and ordered.

After returning the menu, Xiang Ming studied her curiously:

“You seem a bit off today.”

Xiang Yuan: “How so?”

Xiang Ming: “You look tired, like you didn’t rest well, but your overall vibe is really good totally different from last time I saw you.”

Xiang Yuan coughed lightly. “Stop asking so many questions. Mind your own business.”

Xiang Ming pouted. “Can’t I care about you?”

Xiang Yuan: “You’re treating me before payday? Careful you might run out of money by month’s end.”

Xiang Ming: “Not worried. I just missed you! You never have time to come home, so I figured we’d meet for lunch.”

As they chatted, Xiang Ming spotted an acquaintance.

She quickly stood and greeted the passerby.

“Li Ge!”

“Here for lunch too?”

“This is my older sister we’re having lunch together.”

Xiang Yuan glanced up curiously.

The man greeting Xiang Ming had refined, pleasant features and was neatly dressed.

Noticing Xiang Yuan, he nodded politely.

“Enjoy your meal. See you this afternoon.”

“Sure.”

“See you later.”

Once he left, Xiang Ming sat back down.

Xiang Yuan studied her for a moment. “Why’s your face red after a simple greeting?”

“Our company senior, isn’t he handsome?” Xiang Ming touched her flushed cheek. “He’s highly competent professionally and very considerate. He’s been looking out for me ever since I joined the company.”

Xiang Yuan chuckled lightly. “Have you taken a liking to him?”

“Of course not.” Xiang Ming shot her an annoyed look. “I just think he’s a good person.”

Xiang Yuan: “He’s just a colleague. Is he worth that adoring expression of yours?”

After all, throughout Xiang Ming’s over twenty years of life, there had only been one person she truly admired – her own elder sister, Xiang Yuan.

Xiang Ming waved her hand, not wanting to continue the topic.

“You wouldn’t understand.”

Xiang Yuan: “You just graduated from university not long ago. Don’t get fooled by some scumbag as soon as you enter the workforce.”

Xiang Ming: “I’m not that naive.”

Xiang Yuan: “If you meet someone suitable, you can bring him to see me. Your brother-in-law and I will vet him for you.”

Xiang Ming: “Has brother-in-law been busy lately?”

Xiang Yuan: “Fairly so.”

Xiang Ming: “Your birthday is coming up soon. I was planning to throw you a birthday party, but I’m not sure if he’ll have time then.”

Xiang Yuan shook her head. “Not sure, but his matters are important. Work always comes first for him.”

Hearing this, Xiang Ming sighed while drinking the beverage that had just been served. “If I ever get a boyfriend, I definitely won’t choose someone like brother-in-law.”

“Oh?”

“Handsome as he is, he’s just too busy. If I get a boyfriend, I want someone whose whole world revolves around me.”

Xiang Yuan smiled. “Alright then, I wish you get what you want.”

–

After dining with Xiang Ming, Xiang Yuan went shopping alone at the mall.

Some new arrivals had recently come in that happened to interest her, so she decided to go shopping and buy them.

She thoroughly enjoyed shopping alone, not wanting a man to accompany her every moment.

Men’s tastes didn’t represent her own – what they liked might not be what Xiang Yuan liked.

She preferred shopping freely, casually swiping her card to make purchases.

She spent lavishly, buying several limited edition items in succession without looking at the prices, simply for her own pleasure.

This was her way of compensating herself after being overly exhausted last night.

Along the way, she spotted a handsome-looking men’s watch and, after some thought, decided to buy it as a gift for Cheng Zhinan.

After all…

He had performed quite well last night.

He deserved a reward.

If he could be this punctual every week from now on, she might consider giving him gifts regularly.

Xiang Yuan browsed around and finally selected the most expensive one, directly asking the staff to wrap it up to give to Cheng Zhinan that evening.

While waiting for the packaging, a voice suddenly appeared beside her.

“Xiang Yuan?”

Xiang Yuan turned to find it was an unfortunate encounter.

She offered a strained smile. “What a coincidence.”

She had thought seeing Jiang Zixin at the last class reunion would be the final time.

Never expected their ill-fated connection to run so deep – even randomly shopping at a mall, she could encounter the person she least wanted to see.

Jiang Zixin glanced at the men’s watch she had chosen. “Buying it as a gift?”

Xiang Yuan answered honestly: “For my husband.”

Jiang Zixin’s expression shifted slightly.

After all, the watch Xiang Yuan had chosen wasn’t cheap.

For her to casually buy it for Cheng Zhinan showed she was still the same free-spending young miss as before.

Jiang Zixin: “You’re so good to him. If I were a man, I’d want to marry you too.”

Xiang Yuan could detect a slightly sour note in those words.

“After all, we’re married now. Being good to him is only natural. I think if you had a partner, you’d be equally generous.”

“Of course.” Jiang Zixin smiled faintly, maintaining her composure. “It’s just that few people can match your level of extravagance.”

Xiang Yuan had no desire to continue this charade with her.

“I heard you once pursued Cheng Zhinan?”

A flicker of panic crossed Jiang Zixin’s eyes. “Did he tell you that?”

Xiang Yuan: “Well… just something I heard.”

Jiang Zixin’s smile turned awkward. “That was all so long ago. I’d completely forgotten about it until you mentioned it.”

Just then, the sales assistant handed Xiang Yuan a carefully packaged bag.

“Madam, this is the watch you purchased. Please keep it safe.”

Xiang Yuan nodded, accepting the bag while casually remarking to Jiang Zixin:

“It’s fine, everyone has a past. But you’re probably not his type. If you ever pursue another man, I could give you some advice.”

Jiang Zixin’s smile vanished. “What advice?”

Xiang Yuan: “When you encounter a man who doesn’t like you, being clingy isn’t a good strategy. It’s more practical to spend more money.”

Jiang Zixin laughed in exasperation. “So you’re saying you won him over by spending money?”

Xiang Yuan nodded. “If that’s how you want to interpret it, sure.”

After all, money was what Jiang Zixin cared about most.

Letting her misunderstand like this was actually quite satisfying.

Though she’d transformed herself by relying on her father and thought she’d joined high society, her deeply ingrained inferiority complex remained completely unchanged.

Xiang Yuan deliberately targeted this weakness, employing some clever tactics.

She had no intention of prolonging the conversation with Jiang Zixin and prepared to leave the mall with her bag.

However

Only when she reached the entrance did she realize she might have used the wrong card for payment today.

Xiang Yuan: …

No wonder the consumption notification message hadn’t arrived.

It turned out she hadn’t used her own card today, but rather the exclusive supplementary card Cheng Zhinan had given her after their marriage.

At this moment.

Xiang Yuan stared at the card in her hand, falling into deep thought.

So, all her deliberate posturing and displays of lavish spending in front of others… had actually been charged to Cheng Zhinan’s card?

She wondered if he had received the notification.

Just as Xiang Yuan was feeling somewhat guilty, Cheng Zhinan’s message actually arrived.

Though he wasn’t asking about the bill.

CZN: 【Are you home yet?】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【Not yet.】

CZN: 【Some colleagues might come over for dinner tonight. Do you mind?】

CZN: 【If you’re uncomfortable with it, I’ll take them to a restaurant instead.】

Yuanyuanyuanyuan: 【I don’t mind at all.】

CZN: 【Okay, I’ll wait for you at home.】

Ever since Cheng Zhinan got married, his colleagues had been extremely curious about his partner.

Who could have possibly captured the renowned unattainable beauty of their hospital?

The wife must be truly extraordinary.

When they got married, they only invited close friends, not ordinary colleagues or acquaintances.

Today’s dinner was essentially a housewarming gathering.

Knowing there would be guests at home today, Xiang Yuan bought some prepared deli dishes on her way back.

When she arrived home, she found Cheng Zhinan’s colleagues had already arrived.

The house was quite lively.

Several people gathered near the entrance.

“So this is the wife?”

“We’ve heard about you from Zhinan before, but this is our first time meeting you.”

“Doctor Cheng is truly blessed to have such a beautiful wife, hahahaha…”

“Why is our sister-in-law still standing? Come on in.”

“…”

“…”

A group of people stood chattering at the doorway, leaving Xiang Yuan somewhat bewildered.

Finally, Cheng Zhinan emerged from the kitchen.

He walked up to Xiang Yuan, took her hand, and introduced her to his colleagues: “This is my wife, Xiang Yuan.”

Miao Hao: “We know. You and your wife look like a married couple. Just one glance tells us you two are a pair.”

Cheng Zhinan turned to look at her. “These are all my colleagues.”

Xiang Yuan: “Do we have enough groceries at home? I just got back and it’s a bit rushed. If I’d known earlier, I would’ve prepared a proper welcome for you all.”

Miao Hao: “Don’t worry, sister-in-law. We’re not picky. Besides, Doctor Cheng is cooking tonight, and we’re helping as assistants. No need for you to lift a finger.”

Xiang Yuan looked at Cheng Zhinan.

He was wearing a shirt with rolled-up sleeves, looking like he’d just stepped out midway through cooking.

She curved her lips: “Let me help. You’re all guests, please have a seat.”

When they reached the kitchen.

Cheng Zhinan lifted the lid of the earthen pot to check the simmering soup.

“Smells wonderful.” Xiang Yuan twitched her nose. “What soup are you making?”

Cheng Zhinan: “Pork rib and corn soup.”

Xiang Yuan: “Impressive.”

Cheng Zhinan: “Their visit was rather sudden. I was worried you might be unhappy.”

Xiang Yuan: “Not at all. They’re your colleagues, and they seem like good people. Of course I welcome them warmly.”

Since she came to help as an assistant, she needed to look the part.

She put on the couple’s apron matching Cheng Zhinan’s, stood watching for a while, then finally picked up a spring onion, pretending to get to work.

“By the way, Cheng Zhinan.”

“Hmm?”

“Did you check your phone earlier?”

“I did.”

“Did you see the text messages?”

“I did.”

“I…” Xiang Yuan sounded somewhat embarrassed. “When I went shopping today, I accidentally used the wrong card – yours. I spent quite a lot. Why don’t you calculate how much I spent, and I’ll transfer the money to you later.”

“Transfer it to me?” Cheng Zhinan turned off the stove. “Are we really going to be so calculative?”

“It’s not about being calculative, I just feel it’s not right.”

“When I gave you that card, it was for you to spend freely. You’ve never used it since we got married. When I saw the message today, I was actually happy for a while, thinking you’d finally come around. But it turns out…”

He gave her a meaningful look, “You just used the wrong card.”

Xiang Yuan: “…”

After that, Cheng Zhinan fell silent and continued preparing ingredients.

Xiang Yuan felt she might have said something wrong.

She slowly moved closer to Cheng Zhinan. “Are you angry?”

Cheng Zhinan: “…”

Xiang Yuan: “I won’t bring up money with you anymore. Don’t be mad at me, okay?”

Cheng Zhinan glanced sideways at her.

Xiang Yuan pouted, “Your colleagues are all here today. Save me some face.”

In the end, Cheng Zhinan didn’t stay angry with her.

“Alright, I’m not angry with you.”

Xiang Yuan knew he wouldn’t stay mad at her.

Although he could be difficult at times, he rarely got angry with her. Even when he did, he was easy to placate.

This made Xiang Yuan curious.

What would he really look like when truly angry?

Xiang Yuan: “I brought you a gift too.”

Cheng Zhinan: “What gift?”

Xiang Yuan: “I’ll give it to you after they leave.”

Cheng Zhinan: “Okay.”

After a few seconds, Cheng Zhinan seemed to suddenly realize something.

“Why are you giving me a gift?”

Xiang Yuan: “Because…”

Seeing her hesitate, Cheng Zhinan lowered his gaze. “Could it be because of what happened last night?”

“Of course not.” Xiang Yuan waved the peeled green onion in her hand. “It’s because I realized I’ve never given you a gift before, so I decided to do it on a whim.”

If she told the truth, Cheng Zhinan definitely wouldn’t accept it.

Cheng Zhinan didn’t know whether to believe her explanation or not. “Last night was my fault. I’ll pay more attention to the timing in the future and try not to make you uncomfortable.”

“…Mm.”

“Does it still hurt?”

Asking such a question so openly in the kitchen made Xiang Yuan too embarrassed to answer. “Your colleagues are still outside.”

“It’s fine, they can’t hear us.”

“…”

The blush on her face made Cheng Zhinan misunderstand her meaning.

He gently held her waist. “Still hurts?”

Xiang Yuan: “…”

Cheng Zhinan: “Then after they leave, I’ll check it for you.”