Before Yin commenced her duties at the district offices, Lu Zheng suggested meeting in a different town for privacy and adventure, a departure from their discreet meetings in Naerang which were limited and had become boring over time.
Yin agreed, appreciating Lu Zheng's thoughtful gestures each time he brought a new direction to their short holidays. While fancy gifts were part of the allure, this time, Yin found a deeper satisfaction, a new kind of acceptance after a heart-to-heart with Mu Rong that morning.
In this newfound connection, Yin felt a sense of liberation and ease to be with Lu Zheng, dispelling any need for secrecy and fear of judgment from people.
The hour-long ride from Naerang to Balo unfolded a scenic journey that she had not witnessed anywhere else.
Upon arriving in Balo, Yin anticipated another ride to the hotel where Lu Zheng awaited her. Balo, renowned for its rich ancestry in jewelry and crafts, was a favored destination for couples during holidays and festivals.
As the streets teemed with vibes and themes of marriage and love, Yin found herself entranced by the beauty emanating from the goods merchants displayed and the warm weather that kept the vibrant.
It marked Yin's first venture into Balo, and Lu Zheng's prediction proved accurate; she fell in love with the town's aesthetic charm which she hadn't seen anywhere else.
Each side of the street held a unique beauty that captivated her senses. After the cart veered off the main road onto the path leading to the hotel, Yin took a deep breath, feeling a soothing relaxation.
The hotel's surroundings, blending the richness of countryside charm with modernity, added another layer to the enchantment.
"Wow," she mused, her face radiant with joy. In that moment, Yin made a silent promise to Lu Zheng. "Dear Lu Zheng, from now on, I promise not to hide you." She whispered this commitment in her heart, savoring the aroma of the plants lining the road to the hotel.
The hotel, nestled a few meters away from the town, greeted Yin with a beautiful and verdant yet modern ambiance. After paying the driver, Yin ascended the steps to the reception, admiring the light-colored exterior, floating threads above the walking porch, the welcoming shade for waiting visitors, and the well-arranged reception staff that welcomed her warmly into the premises.
Choosing to check in as Mrs. Lu Zheng, contrary to Lu Zheng's suggestion to check in as herself, introduced a moment of confusion for the receptionist who had to Double-check Lu Zheng's entry which listed Yin as the next guest.
The receptionist confirmed the couple's booking when Yin gave in her own name but sought further verification as per the hotel's rules. A call to an escort was made to accompany Yin to Lu Zheng for authentication.
Yin's signature and thumb stamp were collected before an escort guided her to the room. Adhering to the hotel's protocol, the escort lingered until the door was opened and the occupant confirmed the identity of the new entrant(s).
Reaching Lu Zheng's room, the escort knocked on the door, identifying himself as part of the service team. Lu Zheng arose from his desk where he was reading a book and went to the door to find out what was needed of him.
Yin, upon seeing Lu Zheng open the door, walked in and fell into his arms which would have been enough to confirm their familiarity with one another but the escort observed for confirmation before Lu Zheng thanked him and ushered him away.
"Hey, what is the matter?" Lu Zheng inquired in a warm tone, puzzled by Yin's apparent disregard for their privacy which she regularly sought so much.
"Nothing," Yin replied, maintaining the embrace. Lu Zheng closed the door with his left hand, continuing to enjoy the moment. His smile conveyed the belief that Yin was merely in one of her moody phases.
"Are you sure you are okay?" Lu Zheng persisted. After Yin affirmed her well-being, they continued hugging before deciding to sit down.
"I'm sorry about yesterday, but I only wanted to maintain a professional work ground," Lu Zheng apologized, assuming Yin was still upset about the penalty.
"It's okay! Just cut half of our salaries until the penalty is done," Yin suggested, surprisingly sounding more cheerful than expected.
Lu Zheng considered reducing the penalty, understanding that 250 coins would be a small amount for Yin, considering the allowance cut he had taken away from her and her high maintenance costs.
She, however, assured him, "We will manage," displaying an optimism and calmness that surprised Lu Zheng, given Yin's usual inclination to prioritize her friend.
"I will supplement something on top of that for both of you. Don't worry," Lu Zheng assured Yin, still uncertain about the source of her morning disposition.
Yin objected to the supplemental idea and redirected the conversation to exploring the town.
"We should explore the town now before it gets late," Yin requested, her grip firm on his arm.
"We are going to go but first you have to eat something I had already ordered for you and anyways tomorrow is a public holiday. The offices will be closed."
Lu Zheng revealed, directing his interest in spending another day in Balo.
"Really? Why didn't you tell me earlier? I promised Mu Rong I would be at her house very early tomorrow!" Yin exclaimed, a blend of surprise and excitement in her voice.
"She can take care of herself. I already spoke to Marquis about this, and by the way, there is an extra room in this room where you will be resting," Lu Zheng informed Yin, leading her into the room to unpack her belongings, even if it amounted to just a pair of clothes and some cosmetics.
The promise of a relaxing stay and the anticipation of exploring the town together lingered in the air and Lu Zheng excused himself from the room to give her some privacy to change.
After Yin unpacked her bag and changed into fresher outdoor clothing, Lu Zheng took the lead, guiding her first to the restaurant and then to the town. They spent the rest of the day exploring together and immersing themselves in the charm of the surroundings.