The morning after Lianyi's successful presentation, Ye Chen woke up feeling refreshed. The sunlight streaming into the hotel suite highlighted the modern decor. He got out of bed and stretched, wondering if Lianyi was already awake.
As he stepped out of his room, he saw her sitting by the window with a cup of tea. She wore a casual white dress that flowed elegantly around her, her hair falling in soft waves over her shoulders.
"Good morning, Sister Lianyi," Ye Chen greeted, walking over to her.
Lianyi turned and smiled softly. "Good morning, Ye Chen. Did you sleep well?"
"Like a rock," he replied, chuckling. "How about you?"
"I slept well," she said, her voice gentle. "It feels good to have the presentation behind me."
"You were incredible yesterday," Ye Chen said, sitting across from her.
Her cheeks turned pink, and she looked down at her teacup. "I couldn't have done it without your support."
"You didn't need me," Ye Chen said honestly. "You're amazing on your own, Sister Lianyi."
She glanced up at him, her smile soft but sincere. "You're too kind, Ye Chen."
With a few hours before their flight back home, Lianyi suggested exploring a nearby park. The park was serene, with tall trees and a sparkling lake at its center. They strolled along the path, the gentle breeze making Lianyi's dress sway lightly.
"This place is so peaceful," Lianyi said, stopping by the lake.
"It really is," Ye Chen agreed, standing beside her.
Lianyi looked at him, her gaze thoughtful. "You've been so kind to me, Ye Chen. I don't know how to repay you."
"You don't need to repay me," Ye Chen said, smiling. "I'm happy to help."
She hesitated, then stepped closer, her hands clasped in front of her. "Still, I want to do something for you. If you ever need anything, please tell me."
"Having you as my sister-in-law is more than enough," Ye Chen said sincerely.
Lianyi's cheeks flushed, and she looked away, the corner of her mouth lifting in a small smile.
On the flight back, Lianyi seemed more relaxed than before. She leaned against the window, gazing at the clouds, while Ye Chen sat beside her, flipping through the in-flight magazine.
"Ye Chen," she said softly, breaking the silence.
"Yes, Sister Lianyi?" he replied, turning to her.
She hesitated for a moment, then spoke. "This trip… it made me realize how much I appreciate having you in my life. You're not just part of the family. You're someone I trust deeply."
Ye Chen's heart warmed at her words. "That means a lot to me, Sister Lianyi. I feel the same way about you."
Her gaze softened, and she gave him a small smile. "Thank you."
As the flight continued, she leaned her head on his shoulder, her eyes slowly closing. "Wake me when we land," she murmured.
Ye Chen smiled and nodded, feeling a protective warmth as she rested against him.
When they arrived back at the villa, Jiayi and Meixiu were waiting for them in the living room. Jiayi was reading a book, her elegant posture making her look like a painting, while Meixiu was sprawled on the couch, scrolling through her phone.
"You're back!" Meixiu said, jumping up as soon as she saw them.
"How was the trip?" Jiayi asked, setting her book aside.
"It went well," Lianyi said, smiling softly.
"She was amazing," Ye Chen added, glancing at Lianyi with pride.
"Of course she was," Meixiu said, pulling Lianyi into a quick hug. "You're the smart one."
Jiayi stood and approached Ye Chen, her gaze curious. "And how did Ye Chen do? Was he helpful?"
"Very helpful," Lianyi said, her cheeks tinged pink. "I couldn't have asked for better support."
Jiayi smiled warmly and patted Ye Chen's shoulder. "Good job, Ye Chen. You're becoming quite the reliable companion."
Meixiu grinned and nudged him playfully. "Don't let it go to your head."
That evening, as the sisters prepared dinner, Ye Chen found himself reflecting on the trip. Lianyi's words and gestures had left a lasting impression on him.
During dinner, Lianyi glanced at Ye Chen several times, her soft smiles making his heart flutter.
"You've been quiet, Ye Chen," Jiayi said, raising an eyebrow. "What's on your mind?"
"Nothing," Ye Chen said quickly. "Just tired from the trip."
"Well, you earned a break," Meixiu said, grinning. "But don't get too comfortable. We've got plenty of things planned."
Lianyi laughed softly, her voice like a gentle melody. "Don't overwhelm him, Meixiu."
As the conversation flowed, Ye Chen felt a deep sense of belonging. Each moment with his sister-in-laws brought them closer, and he couldn't imagine his life without them.