It was a bright, sunny day when Jiayi approached Ye Chen in the villa's living room. She wore a casual summer dress, her elegance shining as always, but there was a hint of nervousness in her expression.
"Ye Chen," she said softly, sitting beside him. "Can I ask you for a favor?"
"Of course, Sister Jiayi," Ye Chen replied, setting down the book he was reading.
She hesitated for a moment before speaking. "There's a swimsuit contest at the beach this weekend, and I've been invited to participate. It's part of a charity event for one of our family's businesses."
"That sounds exciting," Ye Chen said, smiling.
Jiayi smiled faintly but looked down at her hands. "I'm a little nervous. I've never done something like this before. Would you… come with me for support?"
Ye Chen's heart softened at her vulnerability. "I'd be honored, Sister Jiayi. You'll be amazing."
Her eyes lit up, and she placed a hand on his arm. "Thank you, Ye Chen. It means a lot to me."
The day of the contest arrived, and Ye Chen accompanied Jiayi to the beach. The golden sand stretched out under the warm sun, and the sparkling blue ocean provided a picturesque backdrop.
Jiayi disappeared backstage to prepare, leaving Ye Chen to find a seat among the audience. The event was lively, with cheerful music and a large crowd gathered to watch the competition.
When Jiayi finally stepped onto the stage, Ye Chen's breath caught in his throat. She wore a tasteful yet stunning swimsuit that accentuated her graceful curves and elegant posture. Her confidence radiated as she walked, but her gaze searched the crowd until it found him.
Ye Chen gave her an encouraging smile and a thumbs-up, which made her smile back, her nervousness visibly easing.
"She's incredible," Ye Chen thought, unable to take his eyes off her.
Jiayi's performance earned her loud applause and admiration from the crowd. Although she didn't win first place, she was surrounded by well-wishers congratulating her as she stepped off the stage.
Ye Chen waited nearby, and when she saw him, she immediately walked over.
"You were amazing, Sister Jiayi," Ye Chen said sincerely.
Jiayi's cheeks flushed slightly. "Thank you, Ye Chen. I couldn't have done it without you here."
He handed her a towel, and she smiled warmly as she took it. "Let's go somewhere quieter," she said.
Jiayi led Ye Chen to a secluded part of the beach where the waves lapped gently at the shore. The setting sun painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, creating a romantic atmosphere.
"Thank you for being here with me," Jiayi said, sitting down on the sand. "I was so nervous earlier, but knowing you were in the audience gave me the confidence I needed."
"You didn't need me," Ye Chen said, sitting beside her. "You're amazing on your own."
Jiayi turned to him, her eyes soft. "You always say the kindest things, Ye Chen. You're so special to me."
Her words made his heart race. "Sister Jiayi…"
She leaned closer, her gaze locking onto his. "Do you know how much you mean to me?" she whispered.
Before Ye Chen could respond, Jiayi gently cupped his face with her hands and pressed her lips to his. The kiss was soft and tender, her warmth enveloping him completely.
Ye Chen's mind went blank for a moment, but he soon relaxed, kissing her back with equal tenderness.
When they finally pulled apart, Jiayi's cheeks were flushed, and her eyes shimmered with emotion.
"I don't know when it happened," she said softly, "but you've become so important to me, Ye Chen."
"You're important to me too, Sister Jiayi," Ye Chen replied, his voice steady.
She smiled, her eyes filled with affection. "I'm glad. Being with you feels… right."
As they walked back to the main event, Jiayi slipped her arm through Ye Chen's, leaning against him slightly.
"Promise me something, Ye Chen," she said.
"Anything," he replied.
"Stay by my side," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ye Chen smiled and nodded. "Always."
The bond between them had deepened, and the shared moments of that day would remain etched in their hearts.