Ye Chen was in the living room, flipping through a magazine, when Lianyi quietly approached him. She was dressed in a modest yet elegant blouse and skirt that highlighted her soft, graceful figure.
"Ye Chen," she said softly, her voice hesitant.
He looked up and smiled. "Sister Lianyi, what's up?"
"There's a… conference I need to attend," she began, twiddling her fingers. "It's in another country, and I don't like traveling alone. Would you… would you come with me?"
Ye Chen blinked, surprised. "Me? Are you sure?"
Lianyi nodded, her cheeks slightly pink. "I feel more comfortable when you're around."
Ye Chen smiled warmly. "Of course, I'll go. When do we leave?"
"Tomorrow morning," she said, her eyes lighting up. "Thank you, Ye Chen."
The next day, they boarded an early flight. Lianyi had chosen a window seat and sat quietly, gazing out at the clouds.
"You seem nervous," Ye Chen said as the plane took off.
Lianyi glanced at him and smiled shyly. "I don't fly often. It's a little… overwhelming."
Ye Chen patted her hand gently. "Don't worry. I'm here."
Her cheeks flushed, and she nodded. "Thank you, Ye Chen."
As the flight continued, Lianyi gradually relaxed. They chatted about the conference, her role in the company, and her plans for the trip.
"I have a presentation tomorrow," she said, her voice tinged with worry. "It's important, but I'm afraid I'll make a mistake."
"You'll do great," Ye Chen said confidently. "You're always so meticulous and prepared. I know you'll impress them."
Lianyi smiled softly. "That means a lot, Ye Chen."
When they arrived at their destination, Lianyi guided Ye Chen to the luxurious hotel where the conference was being held. Their room was a spacious suite with a stunning view of the city skyline.
"This place is incredible," Ye Chen said, setting down their luggage.
Lianyi nodded, her expression nervous. "I hope everything goes smoothly tomorrow."
"You'll be amazing," Ye Chen said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
She glanced at him, her cheeks pink again. "Thank you for always believing in me."
The next morning, Lianyi stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her blazer. She wore a professional yet flattering outfit that emphasized her elegance and charm.
"How do I look?" she asked hesitantly.
Ye Chen smiled. "You look perfect. They'll be captivated before you even say a word."
Lianyi laughed softly, a rare sound that warmed Ye Chen's heart. "You always know what to say to make me feel better."
Before they left for the conference, she handed Ye Chen a badge. "This will let you sit in on the presentation. I want you to be there."
"Of course," Ye Chen said, taking the badge.
The conference hall was grand and filled with professionals from various industries. Lianyi's presentation was scheduled for the afternoon, so they spent the morning attending other sessions.
When it was finally her turn, Lianyi took a deep breath and stepped onto the stage. Ye Chen sat in the audience, watching her with admiration.
Her presentation was flawless. She spoke confidently, her knowledge and poise impressing everyone in the room. When she finished, the applause was thunderous.
"You were amazing," Ye Chen said when she returned to her seat, his eyes shining with pride.
"Really?" Lianyi asked, her voice soft.
"Absolutely. You're incredible, Sister Lianyi," he said.
Her face lit up with a smile, and she whispered, "Thank you, Ye Chen."
That evening, Lianyi suggested exploring the city. They walked along brightly lit streets, the atmosphere lively and exciting.
"This place is beautiful," Ye Chen said, glancing at the vibrant buildings around them.
"It is," Lianyi agreed, her voice soft. She paused in front of a small shop selling handmade trinkets.
"Do you like something?" Ye Chen asked.
Lianyi hesitated, then pointed to a delicate bracelet with tiny charms. "It's lovely, but I don't need it."
Ye Chen smiled and bought it for her without hesitation. "Here. A souvenir from this trip."
Lianyi looked at him in surprise, then took the bracelet with trembling hands. "Thank you, Ye Chen. It's beautiful."
She slipped it onto her wrist and smiled softly. "I'll cherish it."
As they returned to the hotel, Lianyi stopped him just outside their room.
"Ye Chen," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Yes?" he asked, looking at her curiously.
She stepped closer, her gaze shy but steady. "This trip… it would have been so difficult without you. Thank you for everything."
Before Ye Chen could respond, she leaned up and kissed his cheek. Her lips were soft and warm, and the gesture left him momentarily speechless.
Lianyi stepped back, her cheeks red. "Goodnight, Ye Chen."
"Goodnight, Sister Lianyi," he said, his voice soft as she disappeared into her room.
Ye Chen stood there for a moment, his hand touching his cheek where her kiss lingered.