Afterward, Xin Yue proposed they locate a tranquil spot to bask in the evening's splendor together. Discovering a secluded bench in a nearby park, surrounded blossoming flowers and the symphony of chirping birds, they settled in. Xin Yue leaned her head against Chang Yi's shoulder, finding solace and affection in her embrace.
Xin Yue couldn't help but grow curious about Chang Yi's expertise with the female form, yet hesitated to broach the topic directly. "Can I ask you something? You seem so knowledgeable about...well, everything. Have you had much experience with women?"
Chang Yi blushed while answering "Um, well...I suppose I have, in a way. I've always felt a connection with women, ever since I can remember," Chang Yi confessed, her tone sincere. "But nothing serious has ever transpired, I assure you, Love."
Xin Yue fell silent for a moment, considering Chang Yi's revelation. Finally, she opened up, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "I've never really given much thought to my sexuality," she admitted. "I've been with men, of course, but... it's never gone very far."
Chang Yi gently caressed Xin Yue's arms, her touch offering comfort as she spoke softly, "Back when I was in the US, things felt easier. Everything was so different compared to here in Taipei. Being a lesbian wasn't as much of a challenge in the Western world."
Xin Yue teased, a playful glint in her eyes, "So, why did you come back here then? Don't tell me it's just to see me."
Chang Yi chuckled softly, meeting Xin Yue's gaze with sincerity. "What if I told you it's true?" she mused, laughter dancing in her eyes. "I wish I had known you earlier, dear." Tenderly, she pressed a gentle kiss to Xin Yue's forehead before continuing in a serene voice, "But I had to come back because of my family."
Xin Yue sensed the underlying sadness and pain in Chang Yi's voice, which held her back from probing further into the matter. Cheerfully, Xin Yue asked, "So, what's your type? Shouldn't she be tall, pretty, and blonde since you gained your experience in the West?"
Chang Yi chuckled at Xin Yue's attempt to change the topic. "Nothing quite like that," she replied, shaking her head. "Some were blonde, some were redheaded, but mostly it's Asian women that pique my curiosity."
Xin Yue listened, a hint of jealousy creeping into her voice as she responded, "Some and mostly, huh? I can only imagine how playful you must be now."
Chang Yi wrapped her arms tightly around Xin Yue, embracing her with tenderness. "That's all in the past, dear," she reassured, holding Xin Yue close. "It's been three years since I've been back, and believe me, you're the first person who's ever made me lose control."
"Now that we have our matching necklaces, shared kisses, and more," Chang Yi looked into Xin Yue's eyes, "how do you think we should define this relationship? I don't want you to have the wrong idea that I'm just playing around, but I understand if this feels a bit awkward." Before she could finish her sentence, Xin Yue silenced her with a kiss, stopping her mid-sentence.
Chang Yi hesitated for a moment, mindful of their public surroundings, but the softness of Xin Yue's lips blurred her judgment. With affectionate warmth, she responded to the kiss, surrendering to the moment despite the surrounding eyes. Xin Yue suddenly became aware of their surroundings and shyly pulled back her lips, their faces flushed with embarrassment. "What have you done to me?" she thought, chastising herself for her sudden boldness. "Can I take a moment to think before I answer that question?" she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Chang Yi nodded, a tinge of disappointment flickering across her features as she heard Xin Yue's response. "Of course, dear. Please take your time," she replied, understanding the complexity of commitments, especially in their situation. Despite her own experiences with women, she recognized the need for adjustment. Gently gripping Xin Yue's hand, Chang Yi suggested calling it a night, since it was already late.
Xin Yue understood, but she couldn't shake the longing she felt for Chang Yi. She yearned to be with her, to feel her touch once more. Yet, amidst these desires, she felt a sudden pang in her stomach—an acknowledgment of how much she had come to depend on Chang Yi.
This realization unsettled Xin Yue. She had always prided herself on her independence, never wanting to rely on anyone, even in past relationships. But now, she couldn't deny the growing significance of Chang Yi in her life. Silently, Chang Yi had become someone—or something—that occupied her thoughts day and night. Her presence had begun to affect Xin Yue in ways she hadn't anticipated, stirring emotions and vulnerabilities she had long kept guarded.
"Do you want to come back to my place?" Xin Yue bravely asked Chang Yi, unwilling to let their time together end so easily.
Chang Yi seemed momentarily distraught by Xin Yue's question. She knew she should be going, giving Xin Yue the space to think about their relationship. With a heavy heart, she pushed herself to reject the invitation.
"I would love to, dear, but I don't think it's wise, uh?" Chang Yi gently stroked Xin Yue's hair, her touch soothing. "Let's not let our activities influence your decision about what you want, love."
"We may be a good match in bed, I suppose," Chang Yi acknowledged, her tone gentle yet firm. "But you understand that it will be much more than just our lovemaking, right?" She attempted to explain, hoping Xin Yue would grasp the depth of what she was trying to convey.
Disappointed by the rejection, Xin Yue understood deep down the depth of Chang Yi's intentions. She realized that it wouldn't be fair for either of them to continue hanging onto their emotions so heavily without clarity. With a heavy heart, she decided to call it a night, recognizing the need to give both herself and Chang Yi the space to navigate their feelings.
As the moon rose high in the sky, casting a soft glow over the park, Xin Yue leaned in to kiss Chang Yi. They were uncertain about what tomorrow might bring, but they held each other close, feeling the warmth of their hearts beating as one.