Tang Qianyu opened her eyes as she woke up with a sore back and limp legs remembering the contents of her dream, she stared motionless at the ceiling without saying a word as a heavy weight of guilt pressed against her chest. She instinctively wrapped her hands around Xin Yuexia who was sleeping by her side. But to her surprise, Xin Yuexia wasn't there. She felt a weird sense in her chest as she frantically looked around the room to find Xin Yuexia with a worried look in her eyes.
'Did she find out about what I said that night?' Tang Qianyu thought as she felt her tears building up. 'I… I never even thought that would even happen. No, no, no! Please! I must find her.' Tang Qianyu stood up and fell on the ground with a loud thud as she slipped off the blanket.
Hearing the commotion, Xin Yuexia walked out of the bathroom wearing a bathrobe and looked at Tang Qianyu's horrified expression with a silly smile. "Do you miss me that much for you to react like that?" She teased as Tang Qianyu went up and hugged her tightly.
This the second time Xin Yuexia has seen Tang Qianyu this terrified and scared and was filled with concern as well as she hugged her tightly and patted her back. "What's wrong?" She asked.
"... I thought you left me." Tang Qianyu whispered as her hug tightened but seeing that Xin Yuexia was feeling uncomfortable, loosened her grip as Xin Yuexia smiled and held both of her cheeks in her hands and reassuringly caressed it.
"Why would I leave you?" Xin Yuexia asked as Tang Qianyu didn't say a word and averted her gaze. Xin Yuexia noticed this and patted Tang Qianyu's head softly, fixing the top of her long brown curly hair as she hummed. "I would never leave you." She said with a sweet smile. "Never ever." She added as they both hugged each other.
•••••
The two spent their afternoon preparing for the opening of the newly established hotel my father and I had spent 3 years meticulously planning and building. With Xin Yuexia by my side, helping the staff with the lists of guests and what they needed for the upcoming opening ceremony tonight, we didn't have any time to breathe.
Still, Tang Qianyu felt a sense of relief as she remembered how Xin Yuexia comforted her a few hours ago and smiled without her noticing. Soon, the sun goes down as the party is about to begin.
Tang Zhiheng, Tang Qianyu's 55 year old alpha father, met with Tang Qianyu and Xin Yuexia with a stoic look on his face which Tang Qianyu had always feared when she was young.
"Father, you arrived early." Tang Qianyu spoke as she came face to face with her father, holding Xin Yuexia's hands tightly.
"And why wouldn't I? I'm the host, I need to come early." Tang Zhiheng replied with a cold tone as he glanced at the close relationship of his daughter and daughter in law as he looked around. "You did well decorating the place but those old fogey don't like the colour orange and those trinkets around the tables. You should quickly replace it." He reprimanded as he pointed around the place and even looked at his secretary to order someone to replace it.
"But father, those decorations fit the theme and they're perfect—" Tang Qianyu tried explaining but was stared down by her father with a stern look in his face as she closed her mouth and lowered her head.
Xin Yuexia held her hand and comforted her with a smile as Tang Qianyu looked at her. Feeling a surge of confidence built up inside of her, she opened her mouth to speak.
"Father," she said, her voice calm but firm, "the decorations were chosen with great care, and they're not just random choices. The orange symbolizes wealth and happiness—it's a vibrant, auspicious color that stands out. For an opening ceremony, it's perfect to set a bold and celebratory tone." Tang Zhiheng's eyes narrowed, his displeasure evident, but Tang Qianyu didn't falter. She gestured to the tables with the so-called "trinkets."
"As for these, they're not clutter—they're handpicked centerpieces inspired by traditional patterns of ruyi and peonies. They represent prosperity and success, blessings we want to extend to the hotel and its future guests. Every detail has been chosen to honor both tradition and modern elegance." Her father's expression remained stern, but she noticed a flicker of hesitation. She pressed on.
"I've consulted experts, studied our guest list, and made sure that every element balances cultural significance with contemporary appeal. Changing the design now would not only waste all the effort and resources I've put into this, but it would also make the setup feel rushed and disjointed. That's not the first impression we want to give." Tang Zhiheng's gaze bore into her, but he said nothing for a moment.
Xin Yuexia stepped forward, her voice gentle but supportive. "Uncle Tang, I think An-an's designs reflect her dedication and understanding of what makes this event special. They blend respect for tradition with a fresh, modern touch. Isn't that what we want to showcase?"
Tang Qianyu squared her shoulders, meeting her father's gaze head-on. "I know you want everything to be perfect, Father. So do I. So please, trust me on this one. These decorations aren't just designs—they're a message. And I'm confident they will resonate with our guests."
Tang Zhiheng looked at her with an indescribable look in his face as he turned around and walked around in a huff. "Do whatever you want but if this backfires, you'll have to deal with the damages." He spoke in a cold tone as Tang Qianyu smiled widely and looked at Xin Yuexia, her eyes glistening with joy.
"Thank you." Tang Qianyu said as she wrapped her hands around Xin Yuexia for a big hug. "I wouldn't have been able to do this without your help." She whispered as Xin Yuexia chuckled and patted her back.
"No," she whispered. "You can do this even without my help. You're more than capable of that." She added with a sweet smile.
The two staff members looked at the childish couple hugging each other in the middle of a busy scene as they all went back to work and let the two love birds enjoy their moment. A few minutes later, the two separated—blushing while they awkwardly said goodbyes and went over to continue their job.
Despite being married for 7 years, the two still act a lot like teenagers who've been dating for only just a month when they're surrounded by other people.
•••••
The grand opening of the Golden Phoenix Hotel began with a display of modern elegance fused with traditional charm. Guests filled the courtyard, adorned with red lanterns and flowing orange drapery that exuded warmth and vitality.
At the center of the stage stood Tang Qianyu, exuding confidence in a tailored female alpha suit—a sleek black design with gold embroidery inspired by traditional Chinese patterns, subtly hinting at phoenix motifs. The sharp cut of the suit contrasted with her soft, yet determined gaze.
She took a deep breath, gripping the microphone firmly. "Distinguished guests, family, and friends, welcome to the grand opening of the Golden Phoenix Hotel. Today marks the start of a new journey—one built on hard work, tradition, and a vision for the future. We hope tonight's celebration will leave you inspired and excited for what's to come."
The audience responded with warm applause as Tang Qianyu stepped back, her heart steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her. The master of ceremonies, Lin Jianyu, a male beta, took the microphone next. His polished demeanor and charismatic voice carried easily over the crowd.
"Thank you, Ms. Tang, for your inspiring words and for being a driving force behind this project. Tonight, we celebrate the culmination of countless hours of dedication and the beginning of something extraordinary. Now, it is my honor to invite Mr. Tang Zhiheng, the man whose vision brought this dream to life, to address us."
Tang Zhiheng approached the microphone with his characteristic gravitas, his sharp suit and commanding presence radiating authority.
"Ladies and gentlemen, tonight we unveil not just a hotel but a legacy—the Golden Phoenix Hotel, a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. This is a place where the past meets the future, and where our guests will experience the finest in hospitality. None of this would have been possible without the support of my family and the dedication of our team." He paused, his gaze briefly meeting Tang Qianyu's. "A special thanks to those who worked tirelessly to ensure every detail reflected the excellence we stand for."
As he concluded, the trio—Tang Qianyu, Tang Zhiheng, and Lin Jianyu—moved to the entrance where a golden ribbon awaited. Tang Qianyu held the ceremonial scissors with poise, standing tall beside her father. Together, they cut the ribbon amid cheers and applause, marking the official opening of the Golden Phoenix Hotel.
Lin Jianyu's voice rang out once more: "Ladies and gentlemen, the Golden Phoenix Hotel is now open! Let the celebration begin!" The evening's festivities commenced with vibrant performances, fine dining, and tours of the hotel's elegant interiors, signaling a promising start for the Tang family's newest venture.
•••••
As the party started, Tang Qianyu and Tang Zhiheng were occupied by the partners and other businessmen making short conversations and talking about future investments into the Grand Phoenix Hotel, to which the Tang father and daughter responded kindly.
After talking and standing for hours, Tang Qianyu managed to slip away as she looked around for Xin Yuexia and saw a figure who closely resembled her wife as she's about to call out her name, she heard a voice she never thought she'd hear again.
"Qian-Qian?" A low raspy voice rang through Tang Qianyu's ear as she stood there frozen—not daring to look behind. She heard rapid footsteps of high-heels brushing against the floor as she looked behind with a frown.
"What are you doing here, Qin Meiying?" Tang Qianyu asked as the gorgeous woman, adorned in a sleek, off-shoulder black evening gown, smirked and tried to hold her hand but Tang Qianyu pushed her hands away.
"How cold~" Qin Meiying replied playfully with a mocking tone as she looked at Tang Qianyu with a mischievous smile. "Is this how you'll greet your girlfriend after 7 years of not being able to see each other again? Don't you miss me?" She asked one after another as Tang Qianyu remained unmoved which seemed to tick her off.
"We already broke up 7 years ago." Tang Qianyu replied curtly as she tried to leave but was stopped by Qin Meiying. Qin Meiying seemed to notice the ring in her hand as she had a look of disbelief in her eyes.
"You're married?" Qin Meiying asked in a low tone which sounded as if she's hurt. "Since when?" She asked as Tang Qianyu pulled her hands away from Qin Meiying and wiped it off with a handkerchief.
"That's none of your business." Tang Qianyu replied with a disgusted look on her face as she walked off without saying another word. She didn't look back to see the tears flowing down Qin Meiying's eyes and even if she did, she would merely snort.
Tang Qianyu was finally able to find Xin Yuexia, and for a moment, she froze, starstruck by the vision before her.
Xin Yuexia stood gracefully amidst the crowd, her long black hair cascading like a silken waterfall down her back, gleaming under the soft lighting. She wore a stunning red qipao-inspired gown with a modern twist—the traditional high neckline was adorned with intricate gold embroidery of blooming peonies and phoenixes, symbols of prosperity and elegance.
The fitted bodice accentuated her slender figure, while the skirt flared out slightly at the hem, the layers of fabric swaying gently as she moved. Her emerald-green eyes, vivid and piercing, seemed to sparkle against the bold hue of her dress. To complete the look, a delicate gold belt cinched her waist, and a pair of golden drop earrings shimmered as she turned her head.
She exuded a regal, almost otherworldly presence, drawing every gaze in the room as if she were the centerpiece of the entire evening. After being able to compose herself, Tang Qianyu took a deep breath and quickened her steps as she stood by Xin Yuexia's side who seemed oddly quiet and downcast.
Tang Qianyu looked at her with concern as she held her hands and rubbed it with her thumb. "What's wrong?" She asked softly as Xin Yuexia chuckled and shook her head which was quite odd.
"It's nothing." Xin Yuexia replied with a reassuring smile and yet, Tang Qianyu could sense something was wrong which caused a small panic in her heart. Xin Yuexia had sense that the big idiotic alpha in front of her were having unnecessary thoughts as she held Tang Qianyu's left cheek and pushed her face closer to hers, looking like she's about to whisper but to Tang Qianyu surprised, Xin Yuexia planted a soft kiss on her lips. "I told you I'm okay, don't worry about me." She said reassuringly.
"Are you sure?" Tang Qianyu asked in a much more happy tone as Xin Yuexia nodded and slowly pushed Tang Qianyu away from her.
"Yes, yes, I'm sure. Now go and meet with our clients, I still need to entertain our other guests." Xin Yuexia replied as she ordered Tang Qianyu sternly in which she obliged awkwardly. Xin Yuexia smiled and gave her another peck in her cheeks as she quietly left Tang Qianyu standing there, dumbfounded.
Tang Qianyu looked at the sad back of Xin Yuexia's as the distance between them grew farther and farther until Tang Qianyu could no longer reach her anymore. Tang Qianyu felt a heavy feeling in her chest as Xin Yuexia's figure disappeared into the sea of crowds.
Maybe, it's finally over.
•••••
It's been three weeks since the party ended and Xin Yuexia remained distant to Tang Qianyu. Xin Yuexia remained with her usual playful display of affection, teasing Tang Qianyuans giving her hugs and kisses everytime the two would have a chance but the kisses became fewer and fewer and while she would hug Tang Qianyu, Tang Qianyu still couldn't feel like Xin Yuexia was really there. As if the person she's hugging was just a teddy bear. A self aware teddy bear.
Tang Qianyu felt confused. She never felt this way before throughout their whole marriage, not even once did Xin Yuexia act this way towards her even when the two would have a massive fight that lasted for a month. This anxiety, this looming dread as if everything's about to shatter and disappear, and the emptiness in Tang Qianyu's heart that could never be filled is keeping her on edge, unable to focus at work and would often catch herself staring at the computer screen for hours.
She didn't do anything wrong. She remained faithful and as a loving and caring wife towards Xin Yuexia, she performed her duties as a wife and yet, it left a distasteful feeling in her chest whenever she thought of that. Regardless, she's done all her responsibilities—everything—and yet the thought of everything being merely an act leaves her feeling broken.
What does she truly want? She doesn't know. She doesn't understand. If, by chance, she really did something wrong that displeases Xin Yuexia, would Xin Yuexia forgive her and give her a chance or would she leave? And if so, what did she do? Just why?
Would Xin Yuexia leave her? No, no, no. That can't happen. She can't lose her. But why? Why can't she lose her? Was it because she didn't want to disappoint her father? Was it out of guilt and responsibility? Why? She doesn't know the answer.
All she knew was that she needed to go home. Now. She needs to see her, yes. She needs her. She needed her wife.
Tang Qianyu stood up as she put on her cloak and rushed out the door, surprising her secretary as she explained that something urgent came up. Every step she took felt heavy, it's painful and her heart kept pounding loudly. She doesn't know what to do, she's at a loss.
Tang Qianyu reached an elevator and entered and yet no matter how much she tried to press the ground floor, the elevator didn't work. It's open and working and yet when she tries to press the floor she needed to go down to, it doesn't work. She's frustrated. She frowned and felt her anger rise up in her body as she's left confused as to why.
Why won't the elevator work? Why does it have to malfunction now? Why? Why? Why? Why does everything in her life break down and why can't she do anything?
Soon, the elevator whirred to life as Tang Qianyu felt the elevator moving. As she felt the ground shake and the familiar sounds of the machine ringing as it opened the door. She arrived at the ground floor as bright lights blinded her vision and the next second she stared at the mirror that showed her reflection but, something's off—the reflection doesn't follow her movement.
Terrified, she observed the mirror until she saw a knob—she's in front of a transparent door. The person inside looks like her and looks as confused as she was. She tried opening the door but couldn't—it's locked.
She tried searching for the key, looking everywhere in this small room that felt oddly familiar. The room looked like a library with rows of shelves lined the walls, filled with old, leather-bound books whose spines gleamed under the low, golden ambient light.
The comforting stillness of the room only heightened her unease. She searched frantically, her fingers brushing over the shelves and under the desk in the corner, looking for a key or anything that might help her escape—or unlock whatever truth this place was hiding.
"Qianyu." She heard a whisper as she looked up and stood up in fright, her eyes around the room and found no one leaving her restless. "Qianyu." She heard a whisper again as she turned back and saw a girl smiling at her.
She couldn't properly picture the face of the girl in front of her but she felt the familiarity between the two of them. She doesn't understand. Why is this happening to her? What does this even mean? She doesn't know.
Suddenly, the girl came towards her and gave her the key. She was confused and took it when
•••••
Tang Qianyu opened her eyes slowly as she stared at the ceiling feeling lost. She doesn't remember her dream but she felt a heavy sorrow building up in her heart. She turned to her side and saw that Xin Yuexia was gone, again.
She stood up, feeling disappointed, as she went to the bathroom for her daily morning routine. After finishing, she went outside to the living room only to find that Xin Yuexia wasn't there. She sighed and looked for Xin Yuexia in the kitchen and all around the house but couldn't find her.
Tang Qianyu panicked and immediately took her phone out to call Xin Yuexia but was surprised when she saw Xin Yuexia opening the door with a dumbfounded look on her face. "What's wrong?" She asked with a smile as Tang Qianyu put down her phone and calmed herself down.
"Where did you go?" Tang Qianyu asked as she noticed the paper bag that Xin Yuexia was holding and took it from her as it seemed very heavy, Xin Yuexia smiled and let her hold it as she took off her shoes and wore her slippers.
"I went to the store to buy something." Xin Yuexia replied as the two sat on the couch as Xin Yuexia took the paper bag from Tang Qianyu's hands and smiled mischievously. "Do you wanna guess what this is?" Xin Yuexia asked as Tang Qianyu nodded—confused. "Good, then, let's start!" Xin Yuexia replied excitedly.
The two started a long game of guessing before Xin Yuexia laughed and opened the bag. The bag was full of sweets and desserts that Tang Qianyu likes. Tang Qianyu's eyes glistened as she smiled sweetly to Xin Yuexia.
"Did you buy this for me?!" Tang Qianyu asked excitedly as Xin Yuexia nodded. "But, why?" She asked, and Xin Yuexia gave her a soft kiss.
"Because I want to. Why? Am I not allowed?" Xin Yuexia asked back as Tang Qianyu chuckled and shook her head. The two remained silent as Xin Yuexia observed Tang Qianyu open up the box of chocolate wafers, taking a piece and bit it with a satisfied look on her face.
Xin Yuexia's smile felt oddly strange, it's like she had something to say but couldn't. Tang Qianyu smiled at her and offered her a wafer as she opened her mouth to take a bite. The two ate the desserts and converse in light hearted topics, spending the morning together until Xin Yuexia went to her office upstairs to continue on her work, giving Tang Qianyu a kiss goodbye as Tang Qianyu left to meet with her friends.
It didn't take long until Tang Qianyu arrived at the place where her friends invited her to drink and have a party to celebrate her birthday early. It has become a tradition for the four of them to have their own little celebration a week before anyone's birthday that only them could attend to spend time with each other despite their busy lives.
Tang Qianyu opened the door and was greeted by her friends as they all celebrated her upcoming birthday. They sat on their seats. They all drank a lot and ate the food served on the table as she chuckled—She's drunk and feeling woozy as she laughed along with the group whenever one of them would joke around.
'I drank way too much, didn't I? Hmm, maybe…' She chuckled as she thought of Xin Yuexia, wondering what she was doing at their home.'Is she still at her office working? Has she even eaten yet? Maybe I should contact her soon…' Tang Qianyu took her phone out to chat with Xin Yuexia when she heard them calling her as she looked up.
"What's this, ya missing your wife?" Chen Haoming teased as he took a bite of cake in front of him. "Come on, you should focus more on us~" He pouted as Tang Qianyu chuckled as she apologized to Chen Haoming and put down her phone and continued their conversation.
It's been so long since they all last hung out and Chen Haoming had come a long way since their college days. Now a renowned biology professor at the country's top university, he'd pursued his dreams, gotten married two years ago, and was about to become a father. His husband, Liang Yuheng—a 32-year-old omega and fellow professor—was pregnant with their first child.
"Ever since Ah-Heng got pregnant, he's been so moody," Chen Haoming groaned, running a hand through his hair. "He kicked me off the bed at 3 a.m. the other day just because he didn't like the way I was breathing!"
The group erupted in laughter at his plight, and Chen Haoming took a big swig of his beer, pointing accusingly at Lin Weichen. "Don't laugh too hard, Lin Weichen. You're not exactly living the dream either."
Lin Weichen grinned sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. Back in college, he'd been infamous for his wild flings with betas and omegas, but everything changed at 23 when he met Zhao Lihua, a single mother seven years his senior, during a hiking trip. She'd completely turned his life around. Despite his family's objections, he married her, becoming a stepfather to her son and eventually a father to two more kids—with another on the way.
"Yeah, yeah," Lin Weichen said, chuckling. "But at least my wife doesn't kick me out of bed. Though…" He trailed off, rubbing his temple. "She's been so irritable lately that I've been banished to the guest room. Every time she sees me, she sighs like I'm the bane of her existence." He sighed theatrically, taking a sip of his wine.
The group burst into laughter again, ribbing Lin Weichen mercilessly, until Wang Xiurong cut in with a groan. "Ugh, can you two stop talking about your spouses? Not everyone wants to hear about your domestic struggles."
Chen Haoming and Lin Weichen immediately wrapped their arms around her shoulders, grinning. "Oh, come on, Rong'er, don't be jealous," Chen Haoming teased.
"Yeah, where's your sense of humor? Or are you mad because you don't have anyone to kick you out of bed?" Lin Weichen added with a wink.
Wang Xiurong swatted them both away, muttering something about how they were lucky she hadn't walked out on their nonsense already.
"Yeah, and aren't you dating someone just a few weeks ago? What happened to her?" Tang Qianyu asked as Wang Xiurong slumped on the back of their chair and took a shot of whiskey, she let out a satisfied sigh after finishing it down.
"She broke up with me." Wang Xiurong replied as they all looked at her in confusion. They wanted to ask her for make information but was cut off by Wang Xiurong, "She cheated on me with her colleague and when I found out, I confronted her and instead of apologizing and shit, she fucking dumped me right then and there." Wang Xiurong scowled as she took another shot of whiskey.
"Damn, what the fuck is wrong with her?" Lin Weichen blurted out in shock as everyone agreed.
"Yeah, I don't really care." Wang Xiurong exclaimed as she looked at Tang Qianyu. "Anyway, enough about me, we should focus on our birthday girl instead." She diverted the conversation as they nodded.
"Yeah, how have you been lately?" Chen Haoming asked as Tang Qianyu smiled sheepishly. Noticing the change in her expression, everyone smirked and leaned in closely. "So the rumours were true?" Chen Haoming asked as he winked at her. "No wonder you're smiling widely like that.
Tang Qianyu felt confused, when did her and Xin Yuexia's plans for having a baby get leaked? She never even told anybody considering how she felt shy telling her friends how much she adores her wife.
"Oh! Yeah, I saw her three weeks ago too, she attended that party." Lin Weichen replied after finally piecing all the puzzles together. "Eyy~ I didn't know you were sneaky like that, Qian'er." He winked as well leaving Tang Qianyu and Wang Xiurong stunned.
"What are you guys talking about?" Tang Qianyu asked as the two looked at her with a teasing grin.
"No need to hide it, Qian'er. We know you've been waiting for Qin Meiying to come back so that you can finally divorce your wife and marry your first love instead. I just didn't expect that you would invite her to the opening ceremony." Lin Weichen replied leaving both Tang Qianyu and Wang Xiurong in disbelief.
"You're cheating on Ms. Xin?" Wang Xiurong asked as Tang Qianyu shook her head, feeling aggrieved that she's misunderstood.
"Of course not!" Tang Qianyu shouted back in reply. "I would never cheat or leave Yuexia because I-," Tang Qianyu paused. What does she even want to say? What does she feel about Yuexia? Does she love her? She's not sure. Maybe she does? Or does she? Really?
Tang Qianyu groaned and scratched her cheeks. "Regardless, I would never leave her or divorce her and me and Qin Meiying are already done. We already broke up 7 years ago." She continued as Wang Xiurong looked at with scrutiny.
"You better be telling the truth because if I found out you're actually cheating on her, I would skin you alive." Wang Xiurong threatened with a frown as Tang Qianyu frowned as well.
"You don't need to threaten me, I already promised to myself and the whole world that I would never leave her." Tang Qianyu replied with a scowl. Noticing the tense atmosphere between the two female alphas, Lin Weichen and Chen Haoming laughed awkwardly and broke them off.
"Anyway, we're here to celebrate Qian'er so, how about we ease up and start eating our food? I'm already getting hungry…" Chen Haoming spoke as he reached out for the steak sitting at the top of the table.
"Yeah, yeah, we should start eating now." Lin Weichen joined in as he took a plate of pasta and offered them to Wang Xiurong. Wang Xiurong scoffed and took the plate as the four of them started eating.
Lin Weichen and Chen Haoming converse while eating and was soon followed by the two and soon, they all went back to laughing and throwing jabs at each other even though the words that Wang Xiurong wanted to say to Tang Qianyu remained unsaid.