Chang Yi was momentarily speechless, then replied shyly, "I don't think it's my place to say. You should ask her yourself." Yi Ting nodded understandingly. "I just want you to know that you're both welcome here. There's no need to feel uneasy," she reassured Chang Yi, gently caressing her arm like a supportive older sister. "Many couples come here, so it's nothing out of the ordinary for us. Our staff can handle it professionally. Hopefully, you both can enjoy your time here and feel rejuvenated."
"Thank you, Mrs. Yi. I appreciate that," Chang Yi replied gratefully. "Okay, I'll let you get settled. Once Xin Yue arrives, just head back to the main building. I've already prepared lunch for you both," Yi Ting said, before leaving Chang Yi to unpack.
As Chang Yi unpacked, she couldn't shake off the nervous excitement bubbling within her. This trip with Xin Yue felt like a significant step in their relationship, and meeting Xin Yue's family added a layer of intensity to their journey together. She hoped she could make a good impression and that Xin Yue's family would approve of her.
As she arranged their belongings neatly in the cottage, Chang Yi's mind wandered to their time together, the intimate moments they shared, and the deep connection they had forged. Despite the uncertainties and challenges ahead, Chang Yi knew one thing for certain – she wanted to be by Xin Yue's side, supporting her through whatever came their way.
~~
Xin Han guided Xin Yue to the other side of the resort, where the lush forest bordered the sandy beach. "There should be 15 to 20 resorts here. I dreamt that this could be the most luxurious one, catering to the wealthiest visitors," Xin Han shared with enthusiasm.
"So, tourism is booming around here?" Xin Yue inquired, her interest piqued. It had been a long time since she had visited Tainan due to her busy life, and she noticed many changes since then. Xin Han nodded in response. "Yes, but it can't be too much, as it's difficult to find proper hotels and resorts in this area. So, we thought that by expanding, the government could enhance their tourism programs, which would be good for the locals," he explained.
As they walked along the forested path, Xin Yue took in the natural beauty surrounding them. Tall trees swayed gently in the breeze, their leaves rustling softly, while rays of sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor.
"So, what happened between you and your assistant?" Xin Han asked, breaking the tranquil silence. Xin Yue hesitated for a moment before responding, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Well, nothing really happened," she replied, trying to downplay the situation.
Xin Han raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Come on, Little Tulip, you're not fooling anyone. You don't just introduce your assistant to family unless there's something more going on," he teased, using Xin Yue's childhood nickname.
Xin Yue chuckled nervously, feeling a pang of embarrassment. "It's complicated," she admitted, unsure of how much to reveal to her cousin. "We're just... figuring things out."
Her cousin regarded her with understanding eyes. "I see," he said gently. "Just remember, whatever it is, you have my support."
Grateful for his understanding, Xin Yue smiled warmly at her cousin. "Thanks, Gege," she said, using the affectionate term for older brother. "I appreciate it."
They continued their stroll through the forest, enjoying each other's company and the serenity of the surroundings. As they walked, Xin Yue felt a sense of peace wash over her, grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with her family and escape the pressures of her busy life.
"Does Xin Lang know about you two?" Xin Han inquired with a grin.
Xin Yue chuckled at the question. "You know how clueless he can be, right? Unless we're kissing right in front of him, he wouldn't catch on to anything," she explained.
Xin Han laughed heartily at her response, continuing to embrace Xin Yue's head as they shared a lighthearted moment together.
After their laughter subsided, Xin Han gently released Xin Yue from his embrace and looked at her with a warm smile. "Well, as long as you two are happy, that's what matters most," he said, his voice filled with genuine affection for his cousin.
Xin Yue returned his smile, feeling grateful for her cousin's understanding. "Thanks, Ge," she said, using the affectionate term for older brother. "We're figuring things out, taking it one step at a time."
With a nod, Xin Han glanced at his watch and then back at Xin Yue. "It's getting late, and I have a meeting with the construction team soon. Why don't you freshen up and relax for a bit? I'll send someone to pick you up when it's time for lunch."
Xin Yue nodded in agreement. "Sounds good, Ge. Thanks for showing me around and for everything," she said gratefully.
With a final smile, Xin Han bid Xin Yue farewell and headed off to attend to his responsibilities, leaving Xin Yue to enjoy some quiet time to herself.
~~
Lost in her thoughts, Chang Yi didn't realize how quickly time had passed until she heard a knock on the door. Startled, she quickly composed herself and opened the door to find Xin Yue standing there, her eyes bright with excitement.
"Hey, sorry for taking so long," Xin Yue said with a sheepish smile. "No worries, I was just getting things settled here," Chang Yi replied, returning her smile. Xin Yue stepped inside, taking in the cozy surroundings of the cottage. "Wow, this place is adorable!" she exclaimed, looking around.
"Yeah, it's quite cozy," Chang Yi agreed, feeling relieved that Xin Yue liked the cottage. "How was your meeting with Ting Sao?" she asked, eager to hear about Xin Yue's interactions with her family.
"It went really well," Xin Yue replied, her smile widening. " Ting Sao was so welcoming, and they're excited to have us here for the lantern festival. Oh, and they've prepared lunch for us back at the main building."
Chang Yi nodded, feeling grateful for the warm reception from Xin Yue's family. "That's great to hear. I'm glad they're supportive of us being here," she said, a sense of relief washing over her.
As they prepared to head back to the main building for lunch, Chang Yi couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead during their stay in Tainan.