The morning sunlight streamed through the windows, waking Ye Chen with its gentle warmth. He stretched lazily and got out of bed, feeling refreshed. Today was the day of their picnic at the lake, and he was looking forward to spending time outdoors with his sister-in-laws.
As he came downstairs, he found Jiayi and Lianyi in the kitchen, packing food into baskets. Jiayi wore a casual white blouse and jeans that accentuated her graceful figure. Lianyi had on a light sundress that swayed with her movements.
"Good morning, Sisters," Ye Chen greeted with a smile.
"Good morning, Ye Chen," Jiayi replied, her face lighting up.
Lianyi looked up shyly and gave him a small smile. "Good morning."
"Everything ready?" Ye Chen asked, walking over to help.
"Almost," Jiayi said. "Can you carry this basket? It's a bit heavy."
"Of course," Ye Chen said, taking the basket from her. Their fingers brushed, and Jiayi gave him an approving smile.
"Thanks. You're always so reliable," she said.
"Don't let him fool you," Meixiu's voice called out from the living room. She appeared in the doorway, wearing a tank top and shorts that showed off her toned legs. "He's just trying to impress us."
"I don't need to try," Ye Chen replied with a playful grin.
Meixiu smirked. "We'll see about that."
Soon, they piled into the car, with Jiayi driving. The trip to the lake was filled with chatter and laughter. Meixiu leaned forward from the back seat to poke Ye Chen's shoulder every so often, while Lianyi quietly looked out the window, enjoying the scenery.
When they arrived, the view took Ye Chen's breath away. The lake was calm and clear, reflecting the blue sky and surrounding trees.
"This place is amazing," he said.
"It's been a favorite spot of ours for years," Jiayi said, smiling as she spread out a picnic blanket on the grass.
Ye Chen helped set up the food while Meixiu and Lianyi arranged the plates and cups.
"Try this," Jiayi said, offering Ye Chen a bite of a freshly baked pastry. She held it up to his mouth, and he hesitated for a moment before taking a bite.
"Delicious," he said, grinning.
Jiayi looked pleased. "I'm glad you like it."
Not to be outdone, Meixiu grabbed a slice of watermelon and held it out. "Here, Ye Chen. This is better."
He took a bite, and Meixiu smirked. "Told you. I know what's best."
"Both are good," Ye Chen said diplomatically, earning a laugh from Jiayi.
As they ate, the mood was light and cheerful. Lianyi offered Ye Chen some of her homemade fruit salad, and her shy smile made his heart race.
"Thank you, Sister Lianyi," he said softly, making her blush.
After the meal, they decided to explore the area. Jiayi led the way along a trail that circled the lake, while Meixiu and Lianyi walked beside Ye Chen.
"Ye Chen, look at this," Meixiu said, pointing at a small stream that fed into the lake. She crouched down and splashed some water in his direction, laughing when he jumped back.
"Hey!" he exclaimed.
"What? It's refreshing," Meixiu said, grinning mischievously.
Jiayi shook her head. "Meixiu, don't get him all wet."
"It's fine," Ye Chen said, laughing. He scooped up some water and splashed her back, earning a surprised yelp.
"I'll get you for that!" Meixiu said, chasing after him.
Jiayi watched with amusement, while Lianyi stood quietly by the water, admiring the view.
After some playful splashing, they returned to the picnic spot to relax. Jiayi lay on the blanket with a book, while Meixiu stretched out beside her, basking in the sun. Lianyi sat under a tree, weaving wildflowers into a small crown.
"Here," Lianyi said, walking over to Ye Chen and placing the flower crown on his head.
"How do I look?" Ye Chen asked, grinning.
"Like a king," Lianyi said softly, her cheeks pink.
"Or a clown," Meixiu chimed in, earning a glare from Lianyi.
Jiayi looked up from her book and smiled. "I think it suits you."
As the afternoon wore on, they packed up and headed back home. The car ride was quieter, with everyone feeling pleasantly tired. Jiayi glanced at Ye Chen in the rearview mirror.
"Did you enjoy yourself?" she asked.
"Absolutely," Ye Chen replied. "Thank you for inviting me."
"It's our pleasure," Jiayi said warmly.
Back at the villa, they spent the evening reminiscing about the day. Jiayi sat beside Ye Chen on the couch, leaning her head on his shoulder as they talked.
"You've been such a great addition to the family, Ye Chen," she said softly.
"Thank you, Sister Jiayi. That means a lot," he replied, feeling a sense of belonging he hadn't felt in years.
As the night wore on, Lianyi hesitated before giving Ye Chen a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight, Ye Chen," she whispered.
Meixiu, not to be outdone, pulled him into a tight hug. "Don't let her have all the fun," she said, planting a quick kiss on his other cheek.
Ye Chen laughed, feeling his face warm. "Goodnight, Sisters."
As he headed upstairs to his room, he couldn't help but smile. Living here was turning out to be an adventure he hadn't expected—but one he was grateful for.