Chapter 241 Don't Bark (Part 1)

The noise in the live stream gradually subsided, and the last thing I saw before turning it off was a barrage of comments saying "Don't bark, Brother is awesome."

After ending her live stream, Ji Wanqing stretched lazily and her gaze fell on the chat box on her phone that she was following closely.

Meng Chao, from the big shot who initially supported her in her live stream to the man who later inexplicably entered her real life, their relationship has long surpassed the simple one between a streamer and a top fan.

Recalling the dramatic reunion of the two mothers, Ji Wanqing still feels that fate is truly wonderful.

Who would have thought that because Meng Chao followed her live stream, the two mothers would recognize each other in a chance encounter offline, and the grievances and misunderstandings that had been building up for years would finally be resolved.

This past event, ironically, became the most special bond connecting Meng Chao and Ji Wanqing.

My phone vibrated with a message from Meng Chao.

Meng Chao: [Let's go downstairs and get some late-night snacks.]

Ji Wanqing's lips unconsciously curled up, she replied "okay", quickly changed into a comfortable dress, grabbed her bag and went out.

Downstairs, Meng Chao's sleek black sports car sat quietly in the night.

He leaned against the car door, without the ostentatious display of a typical rich kid. His simple black T-shirt and trousers couldn't hide the refined and elegant air he had cultivated from a privileged upbringing.

When he saw Ji Wanqing, a hint of tenderness flashed in his eyes. He naturally reached out and took her small handbag, then opened the car door for her.

"How did the broadcast go today?" Meng Chao asked casually as he started the car.

"Not bad, there were a few trolls stirring up trouble, but they were all overshadowed by Brother Biefei's gifts!" Ji Wanqing tilted her head to look at him, her tone carrying a hint of girlish slyness and dependence, "Thank you, President Meng, for your generosity."

Meng Chao chuckled softly, freeing his right hand to accurately grasp hers, his fingertips gently caressing the back of her hand.

"Why do you need to thank me? Just tell me if you see anything you don't like in the future."

His palms were warm and dry, radiating a reassuring strength.

Ji Wanqing felt a sweet warmth in her heart and intertwined her fingers with his.

She knew that Meng Chao's kindness towards her had long surpassed the simple monetary support he provided in the live stream.

He understands the hardships of her live-streaming industry, respects her work, and when she is maliciously attacked, he will use his own way—both domineering and considerate—to create a peaceful environment for her.

Instead of heading to those top Michelin-starred restaurants, the car turned into a lively food street they frequented.

Meng Chao knew that after Ji Wanqing finished her broadcast, she preferred these warm and inviting places where she could completely relax.

He skillfully ordered her favorite grilled skewers, crayfish, and a bowl of hot congee.

While waiting for the food to be served, he carefully rinsed the bowls and chopsticks with hot water and arranged her portion neatly.

"My mom was nagging again today, saying that Auntie invited her to go flower arranging this weekend." Ji Wanqing bit her straw and drank the warm milk that Meng Chao had ordered for her. "It feels like the two of them see each other more often than we do."

Meng Chao raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that good? It saves us the trouble of running back and forth to accompany them."

He paused, then casually mentioned, "By the way, my parents are having a small family gathering next weekend, and my mom specifically told me to make sure you come along."

Ji Wanqing's heart skipped a beat.

Although she was already familiar with the two mothers and had visited Meng Chao's home several times, this was the first time she had formally attended his family gathering as his "girlfriend".

This represents a further step in recognition and acceptance.

She looked at Meng Chao nervously, "Oh? A formal gathering... Should I prepare anything? What should I wear? Your parents...?"

Seeing her body tense up instantly and a series of questions, Meng Chao's smile deepened, and he tightened his grip on her hand.

"Don't be nervous, it's just a regular family dinner. Don't you know my parents? My mom treats you like her own daughter. My dad is a bit serious, but he approves of you. He even praised you for your quick wit and high EQ during the live stream last time."

The certainty and reassurance in his tone were like a gentle breeze, dispelling the unease in Ji Wanqing's heart.

She looked into his deep eyes, where her reflection was clearly seen, filled with affirmation and support.

"Okay." She nodded, a warm feeling welling up inside her.

The late-night snack ended in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

Meng Chao drove her home, and when he parked his car downstairs, he didn't immediately unlock the door.

The night was quiet, and soothing music filled the carriage.

“Qingqing,” he turned to her and looked at her earnestly, “the gathering next weekend is just to help you integrate more naturally into my family. You don’t need to feel any pressure, just be yourself.”

He reached out and gently tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, his movements tender. "Because what I love is the most authentic you."

His words were straightforward and sincere, without any flowery language, yet they were more moving than any sweet talk.

As Ji Wanqing gazed at him, seeing the unmistakable deep affection and determination in his eyes, the slight unease she had felt earlier due to the difference in their family backgrounds completely vanished.

She leaned in and placed a soft, brief kiss on his lips.

"I understand." Her voice was soft and sweet, with a hint of a smile. "I will do my best and not embarrass our CEO Meng."

Meng Chao's eyes darkened at her sudden initiative, but he quickly turned the tables and deepened the kiss.

After a long while, he reluctantly let go of her, his forehead pressed against hers, his breathing slightly rapid, his voice hoarse.

"Go upstairs quickly and get some rest."

Ji Wanqing's cheeks flushed, her heart pounded like a drum, and she whispered "Goodnight" before getting out of the car with slightly unsteady steps.

Seeing the light in her room upstairs turn on, Meng Chao slowly drove away.

Instead of returning to his large, single-level apartment where he usually lived alone, he instinctively drove towards his parents' house.

The city was ablaze with lights at night, but he felt that the true way home was towards the place where she was and where his family was waiting.

The weekend is almost here.

Ji Wanqing had indeed made careful preparations for this family gathering.

She chose a tasteful yet feminine light pink dress, put on light makeup, and prepared suitable gifts for Meng Chao's parents.

For Meng's mother, it was a fine silk scarf that she highly praised; for Meng's uncle, it was a box of top-quality tea.

When Meng Chao came to pick her up, he couldn't help but chuckle when he saw her slightly nervously clutching the gift bag.

"Relax, my dad won't eat people."

Even so, when he led her into the elegant yet imposing villa of the Meng family, he could still feel the slight dampness in her palms.

Meng's mother greeted them warmly, completely ignoring her own son, and affectionately took Ji Wanqing's hand.

"Wanqing is here! Come in, come in quickly. Auntie cooked some soup herself today. Try it and see if you like it."

Their enthusiasm was even greater than that for their own son.