The Storm That Is Coming
Chai Xiaoqi has experienced an extremely turbulent existence on Earth. Everything appeared to be out of her control, from her crash landing to her developing affections for Fang Leng. Even while she was aware of the threat to her mission—and her heart—she couldn't help but be pulled to the austere CEO.
Fang Leng, meantime, was similarly perplexed by his newly discovered feelings. As a man of reason and order, he was sidetracked by Xiaoqi's capricious personality and her inexplicable attraction. He wouldn't acknowledge it, but whenever she came close, his restrained manner cracked a little.
The Incident at the Beach
To commemorate the successful introduction of Fang Leng's new product, the firm organized a beachfront getaway. Workers were invited together with their families, which made the event a vibrant and casual one. Despite his early objections, Xiaoqi accompanied Fang Leng as his "plus one," keen to see the ocean for the first time.
When they arrived, Xiaoqi was enthralled by the sight of infinite water and the salty wind. "Whoa! How can humans coexist with such a big, blue liquid? "This is incredible!" she said as she sprinted barefoot onto the beach.
"Xiaoqi, it's just the ocean. Fang Leng murmured, "Try not to embarrass me," but his eyes softened as he observed her enthusiasm. She had the delight of a kid, and it made him feel something deep inside.
A Bit of Trouble
Xiaoqi couldn't help but run into the water. She laughed as she splashed around and made sporadic attempts to speak to the fish. Her antics attracted the interest of everyone on the beach, including Jiang Xue, Fang Leng's ex-girlfriend, who was also there at the retreat while posing as someone who was "networking."
Jiang Xue took advantage of Xiaoqi's easygoing attitude to make fun of her. With a condescending tone and a saccharine grin, she walked up to him. Don't venture too far out, Xiaoqi, my love. For someone who don't know how to swim, the water may be... harsh.
Unaware of the animosity, Xiaoqi smiled. "Oh, don't worry! I'm capable. In addition, I already have a friendship with the water! She bowed theatrically toward the waves to demonstrate her point, which made Jiang Xue roll her eyes.
Seeing the exchange from the shore, Fang Leng had a wave of protectiveness. "Xiaoqi! Return here before "you drown!" he cried out.
However, Xiaoqi was pushed off balance by a sudden, big wave before she could react. She thrashed her arms in panic, momentarily losing her alien powers. Fang Leng acted without hesitation. Another wave broke over them as he rushed into the sea and pulled her to safety.
A Furious Argument
The audience applauded, thinking they had just seen a romantic rescue, as Fang Leng brought her back to the shore. Wet and wheezing, Xiaoqi's eyes widened as he gazed up at Fang Leng. "You saved me."
So careless of you, Xiaoqi! Don't do it ever again! He reprimanded, but his tone showed that he was worried.
Jiang Xue cut her off before she could respond, acting worried. "You are such a hero, Fang Leng. However, she really shouldn't have been so irresponsible. It's not always possible to save her.
Fang Leng gave her a stern glance. That's sufficient, Jiang Xue. Don't get involved. She was upset by his abrupt reaction.
A Moment of Silence
As the retreat celebrations came to an end later that night, Fang Leng saw Xiaoqi resting in a towel by a campfire. A rare moment of contemplation replaced her normal brightness.
He sat next to her and said, "Are you okay?"
With her eyes sparkling in the firelight, Xiaoqi gave him a quick glance. "Earth is different from the countless worlds I've visited. It's frightening as well as lovely.
"You've taken a lot of trips?" Intrigued, Fang Leng inquired.
When she realized she had spoken too much, Xiaoqi paused. "Well, that's something you could say."
There was a heavy stillness between them, but consoling. Unusually, Fang Leng leaned out and tucked a flyaway hair behind her ear. "You must use greater caution. I... do not wish for you to suffer any harm.
His remarks caused her heart to accelerate, but she swiftly overcame it with a giggle. "Don't be concerned, Mr. CEO. I'm more resilient than I appear.
Realization and Jealousy
Jiang Xue became increasingly envious as the evening wore on. In private, she confronted Fang Leng, accusing him of substituting someone lower in position for her. Will you truly fall in love with someone like her? Fang Leng, she has no place in our world. She is only a diversion.
Fang Leng's answer was forceful yet icy. "You have no say in who I choose to care for. Furthermore, Xiaoqi is more sincere than anybody I've ever encountered.
Xiaoqi overheard the exchange without their knowledge. Although Fang Leng's remarks moved her, they also made her realize how impossible their relationship was. After all, she was extraterrestrial. What role could she ever have in his life?
The Spark
Fang Leng discovers Xiaoqi sitting by herself on the beach as the story comes to a gentle close. Her glistening tears appeared to be reflected by the stars overhead. He offered her his jacket as he sat next to her.
"You're freezing." Take this, please.
Her heart ached as she gazed at him. "Fang Leng, why are you so nice to me? Do you not think I'm... weird?
His eyes softened as he grinned. "You're weird. But perhaps that's why I enjoy your company. You make things less predictable in my life.
Their unsaid bond grew stronger than ever as they looked up at the sky. Their relationship would soon be put to the test in ways neither of them could have predicted.