As they stepped out into the bustling market, Chang Yi guided Xin Yue through the labyrinth of narrow alleys and crowded stalls. Despite the chaotic surroundings, Xin Yue felt safe by Chang Yi's side, her fingers interlocked with hers, anchoring her in the whirlwind of activity.
Navigating through the maze, they finally emerged onto the vibrant streets of Taipei. The sights and sounds of the city enveloped them as they hailed a taxi to take them to the train station.
During the journey, Chang Yi leaned close to Xin Yue, her warm breath brushing against her ear as she whispered, "I'm excited for our trip to Tainan. It's going to be an adventure."
Xin Yue smiled, her heart fluttering with anticipation. "Me too," she replied, resting her head on Chang Yi's shoulder as they continued their journey towards their next destination.
The driving to Tainan was a journey through Taiwan's stunning landscapes. They left the urban sprawl of Taipei behind, venturing into the picturesque countryside. Rolling hills dotted with lush greenery stretched out before them, while majestic mountains loomed in the distance, their peaks shrouded in wisps of mist.
As they cruised along the winding roads, the scenery shifted from verdant fields to quaint villages nestled among the hills. Traditional Taiwanese houses with tiled roofs and ornate wooden facades passed by, each one a snapshot of the island's rich cultural heritage.
Occasionally, they would catch glimpses of tea plantations clinging to the hillsides, their emerald leaves shimmering in the sunlight. Chang Yi pointed out landmarks along the way, sharing anecdotes and stories about each place they passed.
Xin Yue marveled at the beauty of the countryside, her eyes drinking in the panoramic views from the window of the taxi. She felt a sense of serenity wash over her, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
As they neared their destination, the landscape began to change once again. The hills gave way to sprawling rice paddies, their vibrant green hues stretching as far as the eye could see. Sunlight danced on the surface of the water, casting a golden glow over the fields.
Finally, after hours of driving, they arrived in Tainan, the ancient capital of Taiwan. The city welcomed them with open arms, its streets bustling with activity and its air filled with the tantalizing aromas of street food stalls.
With bubbling excitement, Chang Yi and Xin Yue emerged from the car upon reaching the resort managed by Xin Yue's cousin. Having informed him of their proximity earlier, they were greeted by Xin Yue's cousin and his wife, who awaited their arrival. "Han Gege!" Xin Yue exclaimed joyfully as she rushed to embrace her cousin tightly.
Xin Han's face lit up with a wide smile at the sight of Xin Yue, his beloved cousin whom he hadn't seen since his relocation to Tainan. Wrapping his arms around her, he greeted her affectionately. "How have you been, little Tulip?" he asked with genuine fondness. Xin Yue responded with a playful grin, declaring, "In dire need of a holiday."
Moving on to greet her cousin's wife, Xin Yue enveloped her in a warm embrace. "I've missed you, Ting Sao," she expressed warmly. Hue Ting returned the hug with equal warmth, her smile reflecting genuine affection. "And I've missed you too," she replied fondly.
Their reunion filled the air with warmth and happiness as they made their way into the resort, eager to begin their much-anticipated holiday in Tainan.
The winter wind carried a slight chill as Xin Yue introduced Chang Yi to her cousin Xin Han and his wife, Yi Ting. "This is Chang Yi," she hesitated for a moment, searching for the right words, "my assistant," she finally managed to say. Chang Yi extended her hand to Xin Han and Yi Ting, offering a polite greeting. "Nice to meet you. Sorry for the last-minute intrusion," she apologized.
Upon hearing Xin Yue's introduction, Xin Han arched an eyebrow but chose to say nothing, instead shaking Chang Yi's hand with a grin. "No worries. My sister always finds a way to push the limits, doesn't she?" he remarked jovially. "Come on, let me show you where you'll be staying tonight," he continued, picking up their luggage. Yi Ting interjected, suggesting, "Honey, why don't you show A Yue the renovation site plan while I take Ms. Chang to their room? It's already noon, and they must be hungry and tired from the journey before the festival, right?"
Xin Han nodded in agreement. "Ah, that's true. What do you think, A Yue?" he inquired, turning to Xin Yue. She glanced at Chang Yi and provided an explanation, "Han Gege's boss wants to expand the resort. He also asked me to provide a quotation for it. Would you mind going to the room first?" Chang Yi nodded understandingly, replying, "That's fine. I'll take care of the belongings," before gathering their things and following Yi Ting to their room.
~~
They parted ways, with Chang Yi making her way down a pathway lined with cottages nestled alongside the beach. Yi Ting took the opportunity to explain the layout of the resort to Chang Yi, leading her to a small yet charming cottage. Opening the door, Yi Ting gestured inside. "We have a few VIP cottages like this one, complete with a kitchen and living room, although I doubt you two will be cooking anything," she remarked with a smile.
Chang Yi stepped inside and was immediately taken aback by the cozy and inviting atmosphere of the cottage. The living room was tastefully decorated with plush furniture and colorful throw pillows, while the kitchen was fully equipped with modern appliances. She couldn't help but feel grateful for Yi Ting's thoughtfulness in arranging such luxurious accommodations for them.
Then she nodded in agreement. "Yes, I think Xin Yue wants to have dinner at the festival," she confirmed. Yi Ting smiled at Chang Yi's mention of Xin Yue. "Sorry, Xin Yue didn't mention that she would be with you, so we only prepared one bed," she explained apologetically. Chang Yi blushed under Yi Ting's gaze but replied, "It's okay, we can share."
"Not to pry, but you're the first person she's brought to meet her family," Yi Ting said, trying to ease Chang Yi's nerves with a warm smile. "Are you two together?" she asked bluntly.