Chapter 61 The Banquet 1
Xie Shiyan looked down at her beaming face and listened to her cheerful chatter. He reached out and gently stroked the bridge of her pert nose with his knuckles, his tone teasing:
"You like children so much? Once you finish your studies, we'll have one too. Let's see if you're still as 'overflowing with maternal love' then."
He had personally witnessed the chaotic scene of Xiao Xiao and Shen Nian'an being tormented by their own mischievous child; that was the real "sweet burden."
Jiang Yining wrinkled her nose and snorted defiantly. Xie Shiyan smiled, picked up the soup she had served, and walked to the dining room. The soup was at the perfect temperature, carrying the subtle bitterness of the herbs and the mellow sweetness of the ingredients. The warmth slid down his esophagus, soothing his tired stomach.
After dinner, Xie Shiyan went to his study to finish some work. Jiang Yining, carrying her foreign language textbooks and laptop, followed him in and sat on the sofa opposite him. She began to study the difficult original texts, her fingers clattering on the keyboard. She had also taken on a part-time online translation job.
The study was quiet, save for the sounds of turning pages and typing. Soft light enveloped the two of them, creating a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. Xie Shiyan occasionally looked up from his documents, his gaze falling on the focused girl opposite him.
Whatever she's doing—whether it's studying, working, or quietly keeping him company like this—it makes him feel content.
From childhood to adulthood, protecting her has become an instinct etched into his very bones. No matter where she is or what she looks like, as long as she needs him, his wings will always be spread for her, shielding her from all the storms of the world.
Time slipped by unnoticed, approaching 10:30. Xie Shiyan closed the last document and rubbed his temples. He stood up, walked to the sofa, took the book from Jiang Yining's hands, and easily lifted her up in his arms.
"Ah." Jiang Yining exclaimed softly, instinctively wrapping her arms around his neck.
"It's late, time to sleep." Xie Shiyan's voice carried an undeniable authority. He lowered his head and planted a kiss on her smooth forehead, his gaze deep and unwavering.
“In a few days… I’ll be going on a business trip and won’t be able to sleep with you.” He said meaningfully, his tone carrying a hint of teasing and reluctance about the upcoming “short separation.”
Jiang Yining's cheeks flushed instantly, and she buried her head in the crook of his neck. That night was naturally tender and passionate, and they didn't fall into a deep sleep in each other's arms until the early hours of the morning.
The next day, Xie Shiyan woke up early as usual, full of energy, and personally cooked a simple brunch, keeping it warm for Jiang Yining. Jiang Yining slept until late morning and then leisurely ate her breakfast.
She nestled on the sofa in the living room, continuing her translation work with her laptop. The afternoon sun streamed in through the huge French windows, making it warm and inviting.
Around 3 PM, the soft click of the fingerprint lock opening came from the entryway. Jiang Yining looked up in surprise and saw Xie Shiyan walking in with a composed gait.
"Why are you back so early?" She put down her computer, somewhat surprised.
Xie Shiyan walked up to her, his deep gaze falling on her, a gentle smile on his face: "There's a charity auction gala tonight, I'll take you there. Xiao Xiao and the others will go too, so you won't get bored at home alone."
He paused, noticing a fleeting hint of nervousness and hesitation in Jiang Yining's eyes, and added, "Don't worry, it's just a normal occasion, don't be shy. Nian'an will be with you, and I'll be here too."
Hearing that Xiao Xiao and Shen Nian'an were also going, Jiang Yining felt much more at ease, and her eyes lit up: "Really? Then... what do I need to prepare?"
"Now I'll take you to choose a dress." Xie Shiyan took her hand, his tone natural.
The car drove towards the most exclusive private bespoke club in S City. The environment was elegant and private, displaying exquisite garments that resembled works of art. Xie Shiyan led Jiang Yining inside, where a well-dressed, professionally smiling manager immediately greeted them.
"Mr. Xie, good afternoon, beautiful lady." The manager bowed respectfully, his gaze quickly but politely sweeping over Jiang Yining, already having a preliminary matching plan in mind.
"Help her choose a suitable evening gown for the charity gala," Xie Shiyan instructed succinctly, before being led to a comfortable lounge area.
Just then, a surprised voice came from the spiral staircase: "Ningning?"
An Kexia, wearing a royal blue fishtail dress she had tried on, was gracefully walking down the stairs. Upon seeing Jiang Yining, a genuine joy flashed in her eyes, and she quickly walked over.
"What a coincidence, you're here to choose a dress too? I just finished trying one on, so I'm here to give you some advice." Her attitude was natural and affectionate.
"Sister Xia?" Jiang Yining smiled as well. "I heard you went abroad on a business trip. You're back so soon?"
"I just landed today and came straight here after receiving the invitation." An Kexia naturally took Jiang Yining's arm and led her into the dazzling dress area, chatting enthusiastically with the manager.
“Lily, bring out your store’s prized piece, ‘Moonlight Galaxy,’ for Ningning to try on. With her presence, she can definitely pull it off.”
The manager's eyes lit up, and he immediately agreed and left.
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