Chapter 12: The Wedding

It was no surprise to Lu Yunheng. A week ago, the large screen in the prime location of Nancheng had been showcasing Wen Shuyu and Jiang Huaiyu’s wedding photos. Their parents didn’t care about being low-key; they simply wanted to spread the joy.

Thanks to the large screen, Lu Yunheng had come across the video on social media. The comments were full of praise for their perfect match and destined love.

More importantly, Jiang Huaiyu had just sent him a wedding invitation.

[Dear old classmate, you are warmly invited to attend my wedding with Fish. We look forward to your presence.]

Seeing the timing, Lu Yunheng understood. The wedding was about to begin, and he feared that Jiang Huaiyu might be trying to block any potential rival.

Driven by male hormones, even if he didn’t like it, he had to show off.

Lu Yunheng quickly replied, [I can’t wish you happiness, even though it’s a makeshift marriage. Just treat Fish well.]

Makeshift? Treat Fish well?

Lu Yunheng had no right to say such things, especially given his past status.

Jiang Huaiyu was irked, [Fish is my wife, so naturally, I’ll treat her well.]

Lu Yunheng: [Don’t make her sad or hurt her because of other girls.]

Jiang Huaiyu: [I’m not you. I won’t abandon Fish, nor will I let her be hurt.]

The last sentence struck a nerve with Lu Yunheng, and their conversation ended there.

In the bride’s waiting room, Wen Shuyu glanced at a friend request on her phone and hit the lock screen button.

He had no right to offer congratulations—he wasn’t even a former lover.

The phone rang again; it was Jiang Huaiyu calling. Wen Shuyu answered, and she heard a soft, inquiring voice.

“Fish?”

“Oh, what’s up?”

Hearing the familiar, cold tone and the background chatter of Shen Ruoying and Shi Yuanan, Jiang Huaiyu’s anxious heart relaxed.

Jiang Huaiyu closed his eyes and casually replied, “Nothing, I dialed the wrong number.”

“Oh, then I’ll hang up.” In her neurotic state, Wen Shuyu didn’t think much of it.

At 11:25, the wedding was about to begin.

Jiang Huaiyu stood on the empty stage, his gaze fixed on the grand doors. Every second of anxiety felt more intense than ever before.

The current torment was like being in a tiger’s den, as if on the brink of death.

He was terrified that Wen Shuyu might run away from the wedding.

Nervous and excited, Jiang Huaiyu had barely slept the previous night. He had just dozed off briefly and dreamed that everything he had achieved was just an illusion.

In the dream, Lu Yunheng had returned to snatch the bride, and Wen Shuyu had decisively removed her veil and left with Lu Yunheng, hand in hand.

Lu Yunheng had mocked him, “See? Fish only loves me.”

The nightmare was so horrifying that Jiang Huaiyu woke up abruptly, his forehead drenched in cold sweat.

The dream had triggered his insecurities.

Suddenly, the grand doors slowly opened, and Wen Shuyu appeared under the spotlight.

The song that Jiang Huaiyu had specially chosen played through the venue.

“In the old street, running around, exploring the world, coming back with three hundred legends, spring and autumn, snow and rain, forming small seasons, two people, flipping through the book, but finding no beauty like jade.”

With the melody guiding her steps, Wen Shuyu was about to become his bride. The countless scenes that had played out in his dreams were finally coming true.

From the day he realized he liked Wen Shuyu, his dream wedding was finally becoming a reality.

“I am filled with joy, except for the world being too crowded, the moon above, you in my eyes.”

As the song ended, Wen Shuyu, in her pure white wedding dress, approached Jiang Huaiyu.

Naturally, Jiang Huaiyu took Wen Shuyu’s hand, as he would when they were kids at the beach, worried she might slip, holding her tightly.

Wen Shuyu glanced at him. He was dressed in a sharp black suit, his cool demeanor softened by a hint of joy in his features.

The emcee announced, “The poem ‘The boy rides the bamboo horse, playing around with green plums’ is the best description of the bride and groom. Let’s take a look at their story.”

The video showcased many photos Wen Shuyu had never seen before—her back, her profile.

When were these taken? Wen Shuyu had no idea.

In this story, Jiang Huaiyu and she had a deep bond, childhood sweethearts who had finally come together.

Professional companies were indeed different; two emotionally detached people had managed to create such a beautiful love story.

She almost believed it.

The magnificent crystal chandelier lit up, and Wen Shuyu felt as if she was in a sea of flowers. Roses and hydrangeas, flown in from afar, covered the entire venue, a real-life Monet garden.

The display screens on either side featured a full wall of butterfly flowers with “Y & X” written in flowers.

Two massive butterfly lamps danced among the flowers, lost in a summer romance.

Jiang Huaiyu tilted his head and asked, “Are you satisfied, my wife?”

Wen Shuyu nodded, “It’s not bad.”

As the video ended, the emcee continued, “Next, we will exchange rings. A little secret—the wedding rings were specially designed by the groom for the bride.”

Bridesmaid Shi Yuanan brought out a tray with a fish-shaped ring.

The main diamond was a green diamond as large as a pigeon’s egg.

It was her favorite color, bought at an auction by Jiang’s mother two years ago.

The engagement ring was already thoughtful, but the main ring—where did this engineering guy get his design inspiration?

As the ring was slowly slid onto the bride’s finger, the ceremony reached its highly anticipated moment.

The emcee announced, “It’s time for the much-watched segment—the bride and groom’s kiss.”

Jiang Huaiyu wrapped his arms around Wen Shuyu’s waist and slowly leaned in, as if to fulfill a dream they once shared.

His familiar yet refined face drew closer. Just as their lips were about to meet, Wen Shuyu turned her head slightly, causing Jiang Huaiyu’s soft lips to brush against her cheek instead.

The fleeting warmth of his touch was like a dragonfly skimming the water—gone in an instant.

She still couldn’t do it.

She had tried and struggled, but ultimately failed.

Jiang Huaiyu’s lips were now close to her ear, his voice low and husky. “Mrs. Jiang, you’re being difficult.”

Wen Shuyu placed her hand on Jiang Huaiyu’s shoulder, maintaining the pose for the kiss. Calmly, she said, “Jiang Huaiyu, it’s just a show. Don’t take it too seriously.”

“What if I say no?”

Unbeknownst to her, Jiang Huaiyu’s hand had moved from her waist to the back of her head.

Without warning, his scorching lips were about to cover hers completely.

The moment froze; Jiang Huaiyu’s lips hovered a centimeter from hers.

A brief pause made Wen Shuyu’s heart skip a beat. Instinctively, she tried to retreat, only to be held tightly in place.

She had no choice but to look directly at Jiang Huaiyu.

Noticing her resistance, Jiang Huaiyu used his other hand to grasp her wrist, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. “Be a good girl, Fish. Move again, and I might just kiss you for real.”

A second later, with a smile in his dark eyes, he said, “Or should I say, do you want me to really kiss you?”

Wen Shuyu’s eyelashes fluttered. “How could it be? Kissing isn’t that interesting.”

Jiang Huaiyu pressed further. “Have you ever kissed anyone before?” He had asked this before and wanted to confirm again.

Wen Shuyu smirked. “Of course, it happens quite often.”

The air conditioning in the venue was set very low, and Wen Shuyu’s palms were sweaty, her oxygen seemingly drained by the man before her.

Under the scrutiny of the guests, Wen Shuyu struggled to focus, using the dim light to observe her husband.

From her vantage point, his face, as clear as a moonlit night, with thick, dark eyelashes, looked intense and serious.

Time seemed to slow down, and Wen Shuyu’s mind grew foggy, enveloped in the crisp scent of wood.

Her cheeks were flushed, and her breathing was quick. She touched her lips, still tingling with his woody scent.

Her pulse raced. Jiang Huaiyu smirked and said, “What’s the matter? Is this your first time being so close to a man?”

Wen Shuyu glared at him, unwilling to back down. “It’s been a while since I had a kiss.”

“Should I help Mrs. Jiang recall?” Jiang Huaiyu moved in even closer.

Wen Shuyu extended her hand slightly to block him. “No need.”

To those watching from below and the bridesmaids and groomsmen at the side of the stage, it looked like they were genuinely kissing.

Zhou Hangyue commented, “These two are really kissing.”

Shi Yuanan said, “My poor best friend, losing her first kiss like this.”

Zhou Hangyue asked, “Has she never kissed Lu Yunheng?”

Shi Yunan shot him a look, clearly annoyed. “You’re such a fool.”

The long wedding finally concluded. Wen Shuyu was in the dressing room removing her makeup.

Shen Ruoying helped her take off the floral headpiece. “I heard Fu Qingzi was crying at home. The little princess went on a trip and couldn’t make it.”

After getting up at 5 AM and still being active at 2 PM, Wen Shuyu was so exhausted she could barely lift her fingers. She said wearily, “Fu Qingzi is just a bit willful. She’s still a good person. Why didn’t Jiang Huaiyu choose her?”

Shi Yunan picked up the makeup remover oil, eager to gossip. “Princess Fish, how was the kissing experience?”

Wen Shuyu bit into a piece of chocolate and replied irritably, “It was terrible, really awful.”

They hadn’t even really kissed, and it was still her word against his.

Their conversation was overheard by three people outside the door. Song Jinnan and Zhou Hangyue exchanged glances and teased Jiang Huaiyu, “Heard you’re terrible at kissing, haha.”

Zhou Hangyue patted Jiang Huaiyu on the shoulder. “No, no, it’s not just bad. It’s really bad.”

Jiang Huaiyu shot them a sharp look. “I heard you. No need for reminders.”

Shen Ruoying signaled Wen Shuyu that someone was approaching from behind.

Through the mirror, Wen Shuyu saw long legs approaching slowly and raised her voice. “It was bad to begin with, and now you’re not even letting me complain.”

The other four quickly understood the situation, exchanged knowing glances, and quietly exited the dressing room.

The room fell into an awkward silence. Jiang Huaiyu had removed his suit and was now wearing a simple white shirt.

The gentlemanly yet roguish air was in full display.

Jiang Huaiyu leaned down, resting his chin on Wen Shuyu’s shoulder. “Not as experienced as Mrs. Jiang, and still so awkward.”

He hadn’t even kissed her but was now mocking her.

His breath, as intense as on stage, scorched her neck. Wen Shuyu abruptly stood up, creating distance between them.

She was afraid he would take advantage of the situation out of embarrassment.

Jiang Huaiyu straightened up, adjusting his cufflinks. The small fish design stood out, and he coldly emphasized, “Don’t worry, I won’t kiss you.”

Wen Shuyu pouted. “Oh, after all, this is my…”

She suddenly stopped herself. My first kiss—it shouldn’t be given away casually.

Jiang Huaiyu asked, “Your what?”

He deliberately provoked her, eager to hear her answer. Zhou Hangyue had already relayed Shi Yunan’s original comment.

Had she never kissed Lu Yunheng after all that time together? Was it just make-believe?

Wen Shuyu deflated. “Nothing.”

It was all just for show. No one was more noble than the other.

That evening was a family banquet. They had to return to the old house, and due to the wedding’s drinks, the driver took them there.

The plane trees along the street retreated backward. The summer sun blazed like fire, filtered through layers of leaves, and cicadas chirped in the trees.

Wen Shuyu leaned back in her seat, catching up on some much-needed rest. Jiang Huaiyu suddenly remembered their childhood days—playing together and returning home at dusk, with Wen Shuyu resting her head on his shoulder as she fell asleep.

Those sunlit, joyous summers were gone forever.

Unlike now, where Wen Shuyu remained distant, preferring the hard chair back to his shoulder.

Watching the faintly tired profile of Wen Shuyu, her steady breathing soothing in the quiet, Jiang Huaiyu gently nudged her head onto his shoulder.

Muttering to himself, he asked, “Fish, do you still like him?”

He was afraid to ask aloud, even hesitant to hear a false answer.

With Wen Shuyu, Jiang Huaiyu felt insecure.

Especially after overhearing classmates’ conversations, “Isn’t Wen Shuyu supposed to like Lu Yunheng? How did she end up marrying Jiang Huaiyu?”

“They’re married, but it’s normal for them to have separate lives after marriage.”

“Back in high school, Wen Shuyu was so into Lu Yunheng. Her eyes would light up whenever she talked about him. Unlike today, she seems so unhappy. She didn’t even seem willing to kiss.”

Indeed, high school Wen Shuyu’s affection was unhidden.

Jiang Huaiyu gently caressed Wen Shuyu’s cheek, his gaze heavy with intent, “Whether you like him or not doesn’t matter now. You’re my wife. As for the others, they’re out of the picture.”

He had seen her grow up, from a young girl into a graceful woman, with a few detours along the way, but now back on the right path.

Forty minutes later, their dark car arrived at the underground garage of the Xishan Forest Residence.

“Shh.” Before the driver could speak, Jiang Huaiyu had already predicted his words, signaling him to be quiet and to exit first.

Wen Shuyu slept through the journey, truly exhausted, not waking even upon reaching the garage.

She slept soundly while Jiang Huaiyu dared not move, fearing to disturb the woman resting on his shoulder.

Even though his shoulder was numb and aching.

Two hours later, Wen Shuyu stirred, her eyes bleary. “Are we there?”

Jiang Huaiyu maintained his position, speaking softly, “We’re here. Sleep a bit more if you want.”

The summer evening dinner would start late, there was still at least an hour to go.

“No need, thanks.” Wen Shuyu looked at the light blanket covering her and her sleeping posture, instinctively expressing gratitude.

Checking her phone, she saw it was nearly 6 PM.

She had unknowingly rested her head on Jiang Huaiyu’s shoulder for almost three hours.

He had no complaints, not even waking her up.

Jiang Huaiyu stretched his numb left arm and turned to smile mischievously. “Mrs. Jiang, just after the wedding and you’ve forgotten our roles? What’s this ‘thanks’ for?”

The term “Mrs. Jiang” reminded them of their relationship.

Wen Shuyu pushed his head away. “Jiang Huaiyu, act normal.” She shoved the blanket into his hands.

Jiang Huaiyu opened the car door. “Alright, wife’s orders are absolute. Whatever Fish says goes.”

Ignoring him, Wen Shuyu reflected on how she never realized Jiang Huaiyu was such a drama enthusiast.

The two walked to the elevator, one in front and the other behind, like complete strangers.

As they exited the elevator, Jiang Huaiyu called out, “Wife.”

He extended his left hand.

Wen Shuyu, puzzled, responded instinctively, “Huh? What’s up?”

She put her hands behind her back.

Jiang Huaiyu took Wen Shuyu’s left hand from behind, sliding his fingers into hers, gripping firmly.

Their intertwined fingers were more intimate than ever.

“Playing the full act, huh?” Wen Shuyu squeezed Jiang Huaiyu’s palm with all her strength, leaving crescent-shaped marks.

At the noon wedding banquet, entertaining guests was the priority, and by the evening, being with family meant she drank a bit more.

“Jiang Huaiyu, let’s go.” Wen Shuyu, not wanting to hear her parents’ nagging, spoke to Jiang Huaiyu in a slightly harsh tone, using just his name.

The elders repeated their usual advice, reminding them to cherish each other and for Jiang Huaiyu to treat her well.

“Alright, dear.” Jiang Huaiyu took Wen Shuyu’s hand, giving it a gentle pinch.

Seeing four puzzled looks from the family, Wen Shuyu quickly adapted, changing her address, “Honey, let me help you.”

It sounded forced, devoid of any emotion.

Supporting the tipsy Jiang Huaiyu, Wen Shuyu smiled sweetly, “Mom and Dad, we’re heading back now.”

Staying at the old house meant they would have to share a bed under their parents’ watchful eyes.

Mother Jiang said, “Be careful.”

Parents, being experienced, understood that the young couple needed privacy, and staying at the old house wasn’t ideal.

Once in the car, Wen Shuyu sat at the far side, far from Jiang Huaiyu, adjusting her skirt and frowning. “Stop pretending.”

Wen Shuyu saw through Jiang Huaiyu’s pretense. He might be red-faced from alcohol but wasn’t drunk to the point of insensibility.

That was how he had muddled through the high school graduation party, ruining her confession in the process.

Jiang Huaiyu closed his eyes. “Wife, I really have a headache.”

His words were half true and half false, with no credibility from Jiang Huaiyu.

The long day, like a battle, was nearing its end.

Outside, the neon lights dazzled, and the stars in the night sky had lost their dim glow.

Passing by the CBD Plaza in the city center, the large screen flashed their wedding photos.

“Full of joy, embarking on a lifetime together.”

What a beautiful wedding blessing.

Wen Shuyu rested her head against the car window, lost in the recent congratulatory message.

In her youth, she had dreamed of growing old with someone, but it seemed like a joke now.

Entering marriage for convenience, and with her reluctance, she barely glanced at the wedding photos, having no expectations.

A beam of light from outside illuminated her diamond ring, reflecting dazzling brilliance.

The delicate design of the fish, surrounded by waves, symbolized their connection with water. Jiang Huaiyu had clearly put a lot of thought into it.

Little did she know, her loneliness was caught by another’s eyes.

Wen Shuyu guided Jiang Huaiyu into the guest bedroom, proving the old saying true: a man three parts drunk can act enough to make you cry.

Ignoring him, she returned to her own bedroom.

As Wen Shuyu emerged from the master bathroom, she collided with Jiang Huaiyu, who collapsed into her, his entire body draped over hers.

Startled, Wen Shuyu exclaimed, “Ah, what are you doing?”

“Wife, I’m dizzy,” Jiang Huaiyu whimpered like a big, needy puppy, burying his face in her shoulder.

His hot breath, mingled with the scent of grapes, hovered near her nose.

Wen Shuyu had also drunk that night. Whether it was the alcohol or the shock, she forgot to push Jiang Huaiyu away, her hands gripping the blanket tightly.

Jiang Huaiyu lifted his wrist, tucking her hair behind her ear, his gaze burning intensely.

His dark eyes were like the deep sea or a black hole, as if they might swallow her whole.

Why did it suddenly become so intimate?

Under the ceiling light, Wen Shuyu’s attention was drawn to the red bracelet on Jiang Huaiyu’s left wrist, adorned with three ordinary beads.

It had a cheap, plastic feel—like the kind you’d find for five yuan for three at a school gate.

Curiosity piqued, Wen Shuyu asked, “Jiang Huaiyu, you’ve been wearing this bracelet for years. Who gave it to you?”

After a moment’s hesitation, Jiang Huaiyu’s gaze softened as he replied, “A silly girl gave it to me.”

A girl? If he had kept it for so long, she must have been someone he cared about.

No wonder he hadn’t sought out Fu Qingzi, fearing she might cling to him.

Having someone in his heart wasn’t so bad.

It’s just that, even with someone he liked, he still wanted to kiss her.

Wen Shuyu struggled to break free from Jiang Huaiyu’s embrace and tugged him up with effort. “Jiang Huaiyu, I’m going to bed. You can leave now.”

“I can’t get up. My head hurts,” Jiang Huaiyu protested, refusing to move from the bed.

Using all her strength, Wen Shuyu dragged him out, slamming the door behind him with a “bang” and locking it with a “click.”

Standing at the door, Jiang Huaiyu’s eyes cleared immediately as he sighed silently.

On their wedding night, being kicked out of the master bedroom by his wife, and now being ignored by her—if Zhou Hangyue found out, he’d never let him live it down.

A sleepless night passed, and Wen Shuyu didn’t rise until noon. The benefit of familiar surroundings was that she didn’t have to worry about appearances.

Jiang Huaiyu set the table, “Fish, come eat.”

Wen Shuyu, wearing red lipstick and high heels, picked up her chain bag and smiled brightly. “I’m not eating. I’ve made plans to go shopping with Yingying. I’m running late.”

She turned and left gracefully.

Leaving Jiang Huaiyu alone with the elaborate meal he had spent the entire morning preparing.

All his plans for a romantic date were for naught; she hadn’t even considered developing feelings for her new husband.

As night fell and the clock struck ten, the front door remained silent.

Wen Shuyu didn’t respond to WeChat messages, and her whereabouts were unknown.

Unable to reach her, Jiang Huaiyu called, “Mrs. Jiang, it’s ten o’clock. The curfew is up.”

Wen Shuyu suddenly remembered, “I’m at my own place now. Bye.”

What curfew? She had no intention of obeying it.

After all, it was a plastic marriage, so it didn’t matter.

Jiang Huaiyu sat on the balcony, reflecting on the past two days: kicked out of the master bedroom on their wedding night, and now his wife was simply not coming home.

What a unique husband he must be.

On the third day, Wen Shuyu returned to work at the law firm, bringing wedding candies for her colleagues.

Maintaining appearances was important.

Meng Man popped a milk candy into her mouth. “Honey, you’re really not going on a honeymoon? The worst was Cheng Lu, who had been to a matchmaker session with you. Jiang Huaiyu only asked for a drink refill when he was with him.”

A honeymoon with Jiang Huaiyu? Don’t be ridiculous.

Wen Shuyu opened her computer. “Really? Is he that childish?”

“Yes, and you were changing clothes at the time.”

Meng Man recounted the details, concluding, “Jiang Huaiyu has a certain possessiveness over you. Whether he actually likes you, though, is hard to say.”

Wen Shuyu didn’t look up, focusing on the litigation results. “It can’t be liking. He still wears that bracelet from someone he cared about, even after getting married.”

“That’s good. It’s better if he’s not too attached. Especially since your parents are both familiar with him.”

Meng Man sent Wen Shuyu a file and continued, “Liangshi Technology is preparing to hire a legal advisor and is publicly tendering for it. Here’s the information for you to review.”

“And then?”

Wen Shuyu flipped through a few pages. Liangshi Technology was a relatively new company in the emerging medical field. Its scale was modest, but it had a decent business volume and not many lawsuits, making it a worthwhile opportunity.

Meng Man came over and turned to the last page. “You really don’t care about your ‘plastic’ husband. Look at the legal representative.”

The screen displayed prominently: Legal Representatives Jiang Huaiyu and Song Jinnan.

The registered and paid-in capital amounts exceeded Wen Shuyu’s expectations. Jiang Huaiyu was wealthier than she had imagined.

Every extra penny he earned was half hers.

Wen Shuyu said, “Oh, then you can involve others. I’ll stay out of it.”

Moreover, Jiang Huaiyu hadn’t mentioned wanting her involvement, clearly indicating he didn’t want her participation.

Involving a company advisor was Cheng Xianzhi’s specialty, so he would lead the team of lawyers.

After setting up a meeting time with Liangshi Technology, Cheng Xianzhi arrived punctually.

Song Jinnan and Jiang Huaiyu were already waiting in the conference room.

Jiang Huaiyu extended his right hand politely. “Lawyer Cheng, we meet again.”

“Mr. Jiang.”

Cheng Xianzhi followed Jiang Huaiyu’s gaze, understanding immediately.

“Fish has other cases to handle, so I will be fully responsible for your company’s advisory services.”

Using the nickname “Fish” for his wife, Jiang Huaiyu found it increasingly irksome, scratching his ear in irritation.

Adults have to maintain a facade of cordiality. “Then we’ll leave it to Lawyer Cheng,” Song Jinnan said with a polite smile.

As the sparks between Jiang Huaiyu and Cheng Xianzhi fizzled out, Song Jinnan stepped in to smooth things over. He began to explain the details of the tender process. “It’s fairly straightforward—routine contract reviews and debt recovery lawsuits. The bids are uniform. Please prepare a report for us, and we will internally review and give a decision. Results will be posted on the website in about two weeks.”

“Understood.” Cheng Xianzhi asked a few more detailed questions as dusk approached.

The setting sun, a deep orange hue, hung between two skyscrapers like a giant oil painting.

Song Jinnan, with a smile, asked, “It’s getting late. Lawyer Cheng, would you like to stay for dinner?”

Cheng Xianzhi closed his notebook and capped his pen. “Next time, perhaps. I have plans tonight—company dinner.”

Song Jinnan escorted him to the elevator. “Then I won’t keep you. Have a safe trip, and let’s plan for dinner another time.”

“Certainly. Take care,” Cheng Xianzhi said as he stepped into the elevator, maintaining his genteel demeanor.

After seeing the lawyer off, Jiang Huaiyu, the other head of Liangshi Technology, seemed lost in thought.

He recalled Cheng Xianzhi’s words—company dinner. Wen Shuyu hadn’t mentioned this to him. Their relationship was nowhere near the stage of sharing such details.

More precisely, Wen Shuyu seemed indifferent to his words.

Song Jinnan, leaning against the desk, teased Jiang Huaiyu, “You’ve got a rival, and you’re in trouble.”

With his gentle and polite demeanor, Cheng Xianzhi was the type most women would find appealing.

Jiang Huaiyu’s eyes narrowed. “I have evidence; it’s disgraceful to destroy someone’s family.”

He was being stubborn, yet during the wedding, he had been the one getting people drunk. Song Jinnan chose not to call him out.

As he left, he said with a smirk, “Alright then. If I heard correctly, you’ll be alone tonight while Lawyer Cheng dines with your wife.”

“Just stay at work and keep busy,” Jiang Huaiyu replied.

Song Jinnan quickly departed; he had no intention of working late.

Left alone in the office, Jiang Huaiyu sent a message: [Fish, are you coming back for dinner tonight?]

No response. The chat window remained green with unread messages.

After a long wait, Wen Shuyu finally replied: [Not coming back. You eat by yourself. Company dinner.]

Her indifference was clear, no emojis to soften the blow.

Jiang Huaiyu, annoyed yet amused, closed his phone with a sigh: [Then be safe.]

The message went unanswered.

After waiting some more, Jiang Huaiyu sent another message: [Wife, just a friendly reminder: curfew is at 10 PM, and there are only 10 minutes left.]

This time, it was read but not responded to. Wen Shuyu had replied to her mother in the family group but ignored him.

It was obvious she was choosing to ignore him.

At 11 PM, Jiang Huaiyu paced the room and called Wen Shuyu, trying to keep his tone calm. “Wife, where are you?”

Wen Shuyu, drying her hair, replied with irritation, “At home.”

“I see.” As soon as Jiang Huaiyu finished speaking, the call ended abruptly.

In just two days of marriage, they had already slipped into a separation, with him unable to even see his wife’s face.

And he felt like a jilted husband.

It felt like a mockery of a marriage.

The phone emitted a series of beeps, and Wen Shuyu muttered a curse.

“Crazy.”

Around ten minutes later, the doorbell rang. Wen Shuyu peered through the peephole and saw her “plastic husband” standing outside, his expression dark.

She opened a crack in the door and leaned against it. “Jiang Huaiyu, what are you doing here?”

Jiang Huaiyu pressed his lips together and said, “I’m here to take my wife home.”

He smiled suddenly, but it was a smile that sent shivers down Wen Shuyu’s spine.

In the hot summer, it felt like a cold winter.

“I’m staying here. You should go back,” Wen Shuyu said, trying to close the door.

Jiang Huaiyu placed his hand firmly against the doorframe and squeezed inside through the gap.

Wen Shuyu stared at him, her lips tight. “Jiang Huaiyu, don’t go mad.”

“I don’t mind going a bit mad.”

Jiang Huaiyu advanced step by step, cornering her as Wen Shuyu retreated, falling onto the sofa, enveloped in his shadow.

Despite his intense gaze, Wen Shuyu’s finely arched brows were furrowed with anger as she raised her voice.

“Jiang Huaiyu, you’re being too controlling. I want to be where I want to be and return whenever I please. Who are you to set curfews and control me?”

Her eyes blazed with fury.

“And what if I do, wife?”

Jiang Huaiyu’s lips curled into a half-smile. He lifted Wen Shuyu into a princess carry, sweeping a blanket from the sofa to cover her exposed areas.

How many strapless nightgowns did she own? Each one barely concealed the essentials.

From the moment he entered, he couldn’t ignore her smooth, delicate shoulders.

Tonight, she wore a black nightgown, her graceful figure concealed within it. Her slightly damp curls framed her pale, alluring shoulders.

The sudden princess carry made Wen Shuyu instinctively cling to Jiang Huaiyu’s neck, displeased. “Jiang Huaiyu, you’ve really lost it.”

Her arms and knees felt the warmth of his body.

“Really? I don’t think it’s enough.”

Jiang Huaiyu paused, lowering his head to look at Wen Shuyu, their noses nearly touching. His eyes swirled with emotions, clearly showing his intentions.

Only a centimeter separated them from a kiss.

As his lips neared hers, he shifted to her ear. “This is what madness looks like.”

Wen Shuyu reflexively covered her mouth as his warm lips brushed her arm.

It was a near miss, the initiative was in Jiang Huaiyu’s hands.

Wen Shuyu, clad in just a nightgown and partially covered by a blanket, felt a flush of shame at the thought of strangers seeing her. She negotiated with Jiang Huaiyu, “Then put me down. I’ll walk myself.”

Jiang Huaiyu didn’t hesitate. “No.”

Wen Shuyu’s curls swayed gently with the summer breeze, brushing against Jiang Huaiyu’s neck and making it tickle.

As night fell and every home turned off their lights, the stars in the sky followed suit.

In his arms, Wen Shuyu felt an inexplicable sense of safety. Once, he had held her like this after she sprained her ankle running 800 meters in middle school.

Now, he was a grown man.

The 80-meter distance between their buildings meant they were lucky not to run into any neighbors. If they had, people would surely marvel at their harmonious marriage.

Jiang Huaiyu laid Wen Shuyu down on the bed in the master bedroom, gently playing with her hair. “Remember to reply to messages, no matter how late it is. I’ll worry if I can’t reach you. We’re married now, and curfew helps to nurture our relationship.”

“If you don’t follow it, next time, I’ll really kiss you. I’m not joking.”

Jiang Huaiyu’s cold, determined tone carried a weight of certainty.

“Why do we need to nurture our relationship?” Wen Shuyu blurted out.

“Because we’re in this for a lifetime.”

His conviction was so absolute that it made the prospect of a lifetime together seem real.

Jiang Huaiyu didn’t linger in the master bedroom. After his words, he left, turning off the light with a thoughtful touch.

The room was quiet, with a comfortable temperature that chased away the heat. Before she returned, Jiang Huaiyu had already turned on the central air conditioning, ensuring it would be perfect for her arrival.

Wen Shuyu tossed and turned in bed, unable to fall asleep. The sleep bug hadn’t arrived on time.

Her mind grew clearer.

The lingering scent of Jiang Huaiyu on her earlobe made her realize she didn’t truly understand him. What she thought was a makeshift life together seemed to be veering off course.

Her childhood friend, Jiang Huaiyu, had a hidden obsession.

If he liked someone else, why was he still intent on spending his life with her? Had she offended him somehow? Was this his way of tormenting her?

Had she secretly competed with him in exams?

It was all so confusing.

If she wanted to divorce smoothly, she needed to figure out one thing: who did Jiang Huaiyu like?

Finding that girl might provide the solution.

From childhood to now, Wen Shuyu knew every girl who had been close to Jiang Huaiyu. She could count them on her fingers.

Using the process of elimination, she dismissed Fu Qingzi. Impossible.

The school beauty from middle school, or high school, or perhaps someone she didn’t know from online—none of them seemed likely.

Wen Shuyu decided to consult her small group chat: [Yingying, Anan, who do you think from our class might be the one Jiang Huaiyu likes?]

Shigu An: [I can’t think of anyone. Could it be you?]

Wen Shuyu: [Impossible.]

She was so certain, partly because she had never shared her thoughts with anyone.

Shen Ruoying: [I agree, it’s unlikely. If he liked you, he wouldn’t have stayed silent all these years.]

Love was evident in the eyes, nervous avoidance, cautious glances, and concerned stares.

The ones involved were oblivious, and even Shen Ruoying and Shigu An, as outsiders, had never seen it.

The question looped back to the starting point.

Ultimately, the Sandman triumphed. Wen Shuyu fell asleep.

That night, she was plagued by strange dreams. When Jiang Huaiyu appeared in her dream, she felt an urge to hit him.

One of the greatest benefits of marriage, Wen Shuyu discovered, was not having to rush for breakfast anymore. Someone made it for her in various ways.

The two of them walked to the garage, where a black and a white car were parked side by side.

Jiang Huaiyu leaned against the car door, raising an eyebrow with a smile. “Wife, can you finish work on time today?”

Wen Shuyu hesitated, “Not sure. I’ll let you know in the afternoon.”

Jiang Huaiyu said, “Remember to practice your address. You didn’t do well at the family dinner last time.”

At the family dinner, she had almost slipped up but managed to react quickly.

Jiang Huaiyu was critical, but he was the one who had been overly casual.

Wen Shuyu gave a forced smile and dryly replied, “Oh, husband, is this okay?”

“Not bad, barely passable,” Jiang Huaiyu nodded, clearly unsatisfied.

He was taking advantage and acting coy.

“Fine, barely acceptable then.” Wen Shuyu opened the car door, not in the mood for an argument.

The world spun as Wen Shuyu was enveloped in a warm embrace.

Jiang Huaiyu held her close, whispering into her ear, “Goodbye, wife. See you tonight. Remember to think of me.”

This embrace reignited Wen Shuyu’s anger from last night.

Clenching her fist, she kicked Jiang Huaiyu’s leg. “Get lost.”

Jiang Huaiyu wasn’t annoyed. He smoothed her curls and said, “Hitting is affection, scolding is love. If you hit me more, it just means you love me.”

“Crazy.”

Wen Shuyu sat in the driver’s seat, forgetting to start the car. She was sure Jiang Huaiyu was seriously unwell.

Distracted, she walked into the office, where Meng Man noticed her state. “Didn’t sleep well?”

Wen Shuyu slumped on the desk. “No, I’m just always tired—spring drowsiness, autumn fatigue, summer naps, and winter slumber.”

There was never a time she wasn’t tired throughout the year. Meng Man pulled down the blinds. “Then sleep a bit. The client isn’t meeting until the afternoon.”

But as soon as she fell asleep, Wen Shuyu was caught in another dream, unable to wake up for a long time.

Half-awake, she couldn’t tell if she was in reality or still dreaming.

In her dream, she was 18 again, on the night after the college entrance exams, fireworks lighting up the sky, by the endless sea. Jiang Huaiyu was confessing his love to her.

The next moment, Lu Yunheng appeared, interrupting everything.

Time warped, the calendar flipping rapidly, landing at the end of the year.

Snowflakes fell heavily, the courtyard illuminated by brilliant lights. Starry lights circled the trees, sparkling like starlight obscured by clouds.

Jiang Huaiyu, in a brown coat, stood under a tree, rubbing his hands and waiting for her return.

“Fish, I like you—”

A flurry of snowflakes interrupted Jiang Huaiyu’s confession.

In the next moment, Lu Yunheng appeared at her door. “Yuyu, I’m back.”

Suddenly, a loud knocking echoed through the house. Wen Shuyu jolted awake, her body tensing.

The dreams seemed to connect; what had started at night continued into the day.

Wen Shuyu pressed the back of her hand to her forehead, wondering if she was sick too—perhaps a case of post-sun syndrome.

Otherwise, why would she keep dreaming about Jiang Huaiyu?

There was no turning back, and as for the grass near her nest, she had no intention of grazing there.

Wen Shuyu gathered herself, “What’s the matter, Senior Sister?”

Meng Man pushed open the door. “The plaintiff, Lin Si Luo, has arrived early.”

Lin Si Luo, from the domestic violence case, had not succeeded in her divorce last time and was now preparing for an appeal.

Her husband, wearing glasses, looked harmless—nothing like the stereotypical abusive partner.

Lin Si Luo had once been deceived by this outward appearance.

In the heat of summer, Lin Si Luo wore long sleeves and pants, clutching a cup of hot water. “Lawyer Wen, can I still get the divorce?”

Anyone who had endured such a prolonged struggle would lose confidence.

Wen Shuyu took her trembling hand, offering reassurance. “Yes, you will. We will make it happen.”

“This is a new injury report; I had it assessed,” Lin Si Luo handed over a stack of documents.

Wen Shuyu hesitated to open them, wondering how such a frail girl had endured so much over the years.

“Alright, I will make sure you get your divorce this time.”

Lin Si Luo stood up. “Thank you, Lawyer Wen. I won’t disturb your lunch.”

Wen Shuyu steadied her. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. I’m going back to work,” Lin Si Luo forced a bitter smile.

After seeing off the plaintiff, Wen Shuyu turned her attention to the new injury report and began preparing evidence for the appeal.

The report detailed swollen knees, bruised wrists, and stitches on her forehead.

Scars can fade, but how do you heal the wounds of the heart?

Her nose felt sour, and she fought to keep tears at bay.

The sun rose and set as usual, day after day, and fortunately, Lin Si Luo was still here to see it.

Wen Shuyu feared that Lin Si Luo might end up like the unfortunate figures in the news. She needed to win this divorce case swiftly.

She packed away the black folder and left the office, her shadow growing heavy behind her.

As night fell, dark clouds gathered, threatening a storm.

Wen Shuyu drove through a less-traveled city road. With few cars and people around, she noticed a black sedan maintaining a steady, yet unsettling distance behind her.

Since leaving the office, it wasn’t just paranoia.

In a state of panic, Wen Shuyu called the first contact in her phone. Jiang Huaiyu’s voice came through the receiver. “Hello, Yuyu, what’s wrong?”

“Jiang Huaiyu.”

Wen Shuyu tried to stay calm, but her anxiety was evident in her voice. “It seems like someone is following me.”