Chapter 15

Song Wei’s heart raced as she nodded blankly and shut the door. Leaning her back against it, she tried to steady herself.

Soon, the sound of footsteps faded, followed by the opening and closing of the main door.

The pain she’d felt earlier had subsided, but she forced herself to process what had just happened.

No regrets.

Like he said, if this was something that had to happen eventually, now was the best time, and he was the most suitable person.

Song Wei lay back on the bed.

Five hours until work. He had said they’d get the marriage certificate first, but he hadn’t mentioned what would happen afterward.

She wanted to ask if they’d handle the certificate before or after work, but she hesitated. She’d already been so forward; would it seem too much to reach out again?

Caught in her indecision, she couldn’t fall back asleep.

After tossing and turning for a while, a thought struck her. She got up and went to Yang Yingqiu’s room.

Since her parents weren’t home, getting the household registration book was surprisingly easy.

All the important family documents were in the bottom drawer of Yang Yingqiu’s bedside table. Opening it, she found a pile of certificates and two bright red marriage certificates. The edges were slightly ajar, a sign they’d been looked at recently.

Squatting down, Song Wei carefully took out the marriage certificates.

Yang Yingqiu and Song Gao Yi had been college sweethearts who married after graduation. In the wedding photo, the man and woman beamed with joy.

She reached out and touched the image of her younger parents. The tension in her heart eased slightly at that moment.

She didn’t fully understand the meaning of marriage, but Chen Jubai wasn’t wrong. Back then, her parents had entered marriage with love, sharing the most important thirty years of their lives. Though things hadn’t ended ideally, they didn’t regret it.

People always said children were the crystallization of their parents’ love. For the first time, Song Wei truly grasped the sentiment behind that phrase.

She was proof of their love, and she felt fortunate to be a trace left by their relationship.

Choosing to part ways now was for their own happiness, and there was no reason for regret.

Closing the marriage certificates, Song Wei smiled softly.

She found the household registration book beneath the certificates, carefully closed the drawer, and left the room.

It was already 4 a.m. Too late to sleep and too restless to try, she decided to shower, wash her hair, and apply a face mask.

When it came time to do her makeup, she hesitated. They hadn’t taken specific photos for the marriage certificate, so they’d probably do it at the Civil Affairs Bureau. Was heavy makeup suitable for a certificate photo?

After some deliberation, she opted for a moderate look—not too heavy but not too light. After all, this was likely a once-in-a-lifetime photo, and she wanted to look good.

Choosing an outfit presented another dilemma.

A dress? A blouse?

White seemed traditional, right?

Rummaging through her wardrobe, she finally found a proper white blouse she’d bought for job interviews after graduating college. It had cost her half a month’s living expenses and, after one successful interview, had remained unworn.

The blouse that had once accompanied her into a new chapter of life was now set to do so again.

After changing into the blouse, Song Wei applied a bit of perfume. She rarely used perfume, but this bottle, a gift from Zhu Qingfei, had a light woody scent she’d described as “man-slaying.”

Song Wei leaned closer to her collar and sniffed. It did smell quite nice.

Everything was ready, even her previously agonizing stomach was behaving.

6 a.m.

Still early.

She cooked some frozen dumplings to satisfy her hunger, then sat on the couch to wait.

Her cat, Snowflake, had been roused by her earlier noise and now stayed obediently by her side. Stroking Snowflake’s chin, Song Wei murmured, “Snowflake, what do you think Chen Jubai is doing right now?”

“Do you think he’s still asleep?”

“Did I make the right choice?”

“Snowflake…”

“Forget it. You’re just a little flirt who cozies up to good-looking people. What would you know?”

Snowflake tilted its head in displeasure, meowing indignantly.

Song Wei tapped its head. “Hey, you disagree with me now?”

After a bit of muttering to herself, the sound of movement came from the front door. Thinking it was Chen Jubai returning to pick her up, her heart tightened, and she straightened her posture.

But it wasn’t Chen Jubai. It was Song Gao Yi, coming home from work.

Both were surprised. Song Wei spoke first. “Dad, why are you back at this hour?”

“Overtime ran late,” Song Gao Yi said, setting down his briefcase. “Have you not slept, or are you already up?”

“Neither,” Song Wei said, thinking for a moment before continuing, “Dad, I need to tell you something.”

Song Gao Yi walked over. “What is it?”

Song Wei bit her lip, suddenly a bit nervous. “I’m going to get a marriage certificate with Chen Jubai in a bit.”

As expected, Song Gao Yi was shocked, staying silent for a long time.

Finally, he said in a low voice, “Weiwei, this isn’t a small matter.”

Chen Jubai had said the same thing last night. “I know.”

“Have you thought it through?”

“I have.”

Song Gao Yi hugged her. “Then Dad wishes you happiness. Weiwei, marriage isn’t easy. Treat Xiao Chen well, but don’t sacrifice your happiness. Dad and Mom will always have your back.”

Song Wei’s eyes stung, and her throat felt tight. “Thank you, Dad.”

“Does your mom know?”

Song Wei shook her head. “I haven’t told her.”

“Give her a call. If you tell her after getting the certificate, she might be upset.”

“Okay.”

Song Wei dialed the number. Yang Yingqiu’s phone was always on. After two rings, it connected. “Weiwei?”

Glancing at her father, who patted her shoulder and mouthed, “It’s okay, just say it,” she gathered her courage. “Mom, I want to marry Chen Jubai.”

There was a long silence on the other end. Thinking her mother was angry, Song Wei called out nervously, “Mom…”

Yang Yingqiu sighed. “Weiwei, don’t rush into this. You don’t have to do this.”

Rushing was part of it, but without some impulsiveness, the marriage might not happen.

Last night, Chen Jubai had told her to think about it. If she’d thought for more than two hours, she’d have regretted it. But since he’d agreed, this decision wouldn’t change easily.

“Mom, he’s great. Honestly, I’m a bit excited. I think we’ll be happy.”

Yang Yingqiu sighed again. “If you’re sure, then go ahead. But if it doesn’t work out, don’t be afraid to let go.”

“Okay.”

At 7:30, Chen Jubai sent a message saying the Civil Affairs Bureau opened at 8:30, and he’d pick her up at 8.

She replied, “Okay.”

At 8, Song Gaoyi walked her downstairs.

The neighborhood, blanketed in snow, was serene and white.

Chen Jubai hadn’t expected Song Gaoyi to be there. Glancing at her and then at his future father-in-law, he seemed unsure of what to do.

Song Wei stood next to him and said, “Dad, we’re leaving now.”

Song Gaoyi didn’t respond to her but turned to Chen Jubai. “Come here. I need to have a word with you.”

His tone was serious, not much different from how her mother had interrogated him the other day.

The two men stepped a few paces away. Song Wei couldn’t hear their conversation, so she quietly observed the man who was about to become her husband.

He might not have slept, but he had clearly just showered—she caught a fresh scent of body wash when she got close. His hair had been styled, with an evident application of hair gel.

As for his attire, he was impeccably dressed in a fitted suit, paired with a striped bow tie. He looked slightly different from his usual self, but she couldn’t pinpoint exactly what it was—just that he looked rather dashing.

With his looks, physique, wealth, and capability—not to mention his decent personality—he had surpassed 99% of the men she had ever met. If this wasn’t the ideal candidate for a husband, who else could it be?

Their conversation didn’t last long. Chen Jubai returned and opened the passenger door for her. “Let’s go.”

Song Wei waved at Song Gaoyi before getting into the car.

As soon as she fastened her seatbelt, she caught sight of her father still standing in place through the rearview mirror. Tears welled up in her eyes.

This was just registering for a marriage certificate, not even a formal wedding. Why did it feel so emotional?

She took a deep breath to steady herself. The man beside her seemed to notice, and he lowered the window slightly.

The chilly wind rushed in, clearing her head.

From Bihu Garden to the Civil Affairs Bureau was a thirteen-minute drive. They remained silent the entire way.

When they arrived, Chen Jubai parked in a roadside spot.

It was the first day of the new year, and the bureau’s entrance was bustling with people. Some were there to get married, others to divorce—it was a lively scene.

Chen Jubai turned off the engine but didn’t get out of the car. “Song Wei.”

She turned to look at him, meeting his gaze.

“There’s still time to regret this,” he said.

“What about you?” she asked.

He retrieved their household registration booklets and ID cards from the console.

Looking at the prepared documents in his hand, she smiled. “Why didn’t you ask me this before starting the car? Why wait until we’re at the door?”

He didn’t smile, his lips pressed into a firm line. “So, do you regret it?”

Without answering, Song Wei opened the car door. “Let’s go.”

There weren’t many people getting married, so the process only took twenty minutes.

When they stepped out, two bright red marriage certificates were in her hands.

It didn’t feel real.

Back in the car, Song Wei opened one of the booklets to take a closer look.

The wedding photo had been taken on-site, but it turned out surprisingly well. He stood half a head taller than her, with her shoulder aligned with his. The composition looked harmonious.

Neither of them was smiling much in the photo. Chen Jubai had stood close to her during the shoot, which made her a bit nervous, and he had seemed tense as well, his expression stiff.

Still, the photo was decent overall. With their looks, they carried it off well.

After admiring the picture, she examined the details below. His date of birth showed that he was two years older than her—January 15, just recently passed. An Aquarius, which suited his personality.

She carefully read through every word on the marriage certificate before closing it. Then, she noticed the car hadn’t started. Turning her head, she found herself meeting his dark, unreadable gaze, filled with emotions she couldn’t decipher.

Avoiding his eyes, she placed the two certificates into her bag and asked, “Why aren’t we driving?”

“Want to get breakfast first?” he suggested calmly.

Breakfast wasn’t a bad idea, but Song Wei still wasn’t sure how to interact with him now. Politely, she declined, “Let’s head to the office. I’m already late.”

His Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed, but he didn’t argue. He started the car.

When they arrived at her office building, Song Wei unfastened her seatbelt. “Are you coming up?”

“No, I have to head to Shenzhen,” he replied.

“Alright then, take care,” she said, reaching for the door.

Before she could leave, he grabbed her hand, his deep, melodic voice following. “Song Wei.”

He said her name often, but this time, her heart jumped into her throat. Suddenly flustered, she avoided his gaze for a long moment before finally turning to him. “What is it?”

To her surprise, he held out a ring box.

She was slightly taken aback. In the short hours since last night, where had he gotten a ring?

He opened the box and selected a simple women’s wedding band. “May I?”

Song Wei nodded.

He took her right hand and gently slid the ring onto her ring finger.

She recalled the dream she’d had not long ago—her unfinished wedding ceremony, interrupted before it could reach this moment. Now, that dream was complete.

But in the next instant, she burst out laughing.

Holding up her hand, she tilted her head with a playful grin. “It’s too loose.”

The ring, rushed overnight, had been guessed at for size. He hadn’t known her measurements but insisted on this gesture. Seeing her amused expression, he sighed in relief. “I’ll get it resized next time.”

“Good.” She didn’t hesitate. A wedding ring was a must.

Noticing the remaining ring in the box, she took it out. “Let me put yours on.”

His fit perfectly. The plain silver band slid onto his veined finger, a symbol of their commitment—a tether to each other for life.

The moment felt surreal to Song Wei. Avoiding his gaze, she quickly said, “I’m going now.”

This time, he didn’t call her name but caught her wrist instead, pulling her into a brief embrace.

His clear voice murmured near her ear, “Wait for me to come back.”

She could feel the powerful rhythm of his heartbeat, its thumping seeming to echo through her own body.

Her breath hitched, and her cheeks flushed.

“Okay.”

…

Even after sitting at her desk, Song Wei still felt like she was in a dream.

She reached into her bag, touching the two small booklets. Pulling them out, she confirmed once again: she had registered her marriage. She was now married.

Her phone buzzed with a message from Chen Jubai:
[Song Wei, this marriage was rushed. You haven’t met my family yet, and I didn’t give you a proper proposal. I’m sorry for that. Marriage is like an elective in the course of life, and I want to ace it. Please trust me.]

Song Wei read it twice, then stood and walked to the window.

From there, she could see the street below. The low-profile Mercedes had just turned on its signal light and merged onto the main road.

Retracting her gaze, she replied:
[I want to ace it too.]

Around nine, the office began to buzz with activity. Song Wei collected herself, retrieved the New Year red envelopes she had prepared, and stepped out.

On the first day back at work, everyone was still recovering from the Chinese New Year holiday. Song Wei didn’t assign them any tasks right away—holiday blues needed some time to wear off.

But the ever-efficient Capital Company operated differently, and Andy’s call came as expected.

Yesterday, Song Wei had sent her some introductory materials about Guangnian Technology. Andy reaching out again today suggested a 60% probability of success for the collaboration.

Andy’s new company was still focused on intelligent education, which was Song Wei’s area of expertise. She could explain the concepts without even conducting research.

“Andy, whether it’s VR, AR, or MR, they all create a new digital environment. For science, geography, history, and other subjects, knowledge that students could only imagine before is now fully presented before their eyes. This enhances interactive learning experiences to complement traditional education. If I’m not mistaken, your son just started first grade this year, so you probably have a deeper understanding of education than I do.”

“Not just education. Didn’t we also work on training and resource platforms before? Those can be applied here too,” Song Wei added. “There are already similar products on the market. Andy, once you’ve seen the competitive analysis report, I believe you’ll make an accurate judgment.”

Andy laughed, “When you were in charge before, I didn’t even need to look at those reports. Now, I might have to handle them myself.”

The atmosphere was relaxed. Song Wei also laughed, “You said it yourself—this time, you’re working for yourself. It seems you’ll have to work a bit harder.”

“I regret letting you go back then,” Andy joked. She then asked, “Does your company handle product-related business too?”

“No, we have a dedicated business team. But if you choose us, Andy, I won’t let you down. I’ll send you the business manager’s contact details later.”

“If the deal is finalized, can you lead this project?”

On a broader level, there were no issues, but the specific arrangements would depend on Jiang Zhendong. Song Wei didn’t make any promises. “Andy, I just joined. I’m not sure if I can take on new business yet.”

Andy didn’t press her. She ended the call after getting the contact information.

At 4 PM that day, Song Wei was called to the business department for a meeting about a project proposal from Xingfu Jiaoyu Technology, Andy’s company.

It was an informal meeting with only a few participants, but their ranks were high: Business Director Su Gong, Technical Manager Shan Kaicheng, and a laptop running Tencent Meeting on the side.

Song Wei wasn’t familiar with any of them, so she started by greeting everyone and introducing herself.

Su Gong, in his forties, with slicked-back hair and a noticeable beer belly, said, “President Jiang has mentioned Manager Song several times. Glad to finally meet you.”

Sitting across from him, Song Wei smiled politely. “Looking forward to working with you.”

Shan Kaicheng barely glanced at her, tapping the table impatiently. “Mr. Su, can you get to the point? There’s a lot of work to do.”

“You guys are always busy. Can’t wait a moment, huh?” Su retorted, but quickly moved on. Turning to the blank Tencent Meeting screen, he asked, “President Chu, are you there?”

A clear male voice came from the computer. “I’m here.”

The surname Chu—Song Wei realized this was likely the tech department head that Zhu Qingfei had recommended.

Su Gong continued, “President Chu, a company from the capital reached out today about a potential collaboration on an intelligent education project. I did a preliminary evaluation and think it’s feasible. I’d like to hear your opinion. The relevant documents have been sent to your email.”

The sound of a mouse clicking came from the other end, probably browsing through the files. Five or six minutes later, a face appeared on the screen.

Song Wei saw a man with sharp, handsome features. She silently admired how someone could still look good on a video call—he must be even more striking in person. No wonder Zhu Qingfei liked him.

Su Gong said, “Yes, but the project fell through due to funding issues from the partner. Now, with the traditional education and training market declining, there’s a lack of independent experiential education. I think it’s worth pursuing.”

Chu Qi asked, “Which company is this?”

“Xingfu Jiaoyu Technology. It’s a new company established last year,” Su Gong replied, then turned to Song Wei. “Manager Song, this is your client. Why don’t you introduce them to President Chu?”

Without asking how Su Gong knew, Song Wei calmly responded, “President Chu, Xingfu Jiaoyu Technology is a new company founded by my former boss, Andy. Andy has extensive experience in the field, having worked in intelligent education for nearly a decade, with over 20 product launches and industry solutions. About one-third of related resources in the capital are in her hands. However, when I left, the company had just been established, and its qualifications still need further evaluation.”

At a hotel in Shenzhen, Chen Jubai happened to pass behind Chu Qi when Chu asked, “What do you think, President Chen?”

Chen Jubai, not having heard the context, replied, “About what?”

Hearing a familiar voice, Song Wei looked up at the projector. She saw only the torso of a man behind Chu Qi, his striped tie looking identical to the one she had seen that morning.

She paused, her face inexplicably flushing.

Su Gong nudged her forward. “Manager Song, report to President Chen.”

With no other choice, Song Wei braced herself and explained the situation again.

Chen Jubai, hearing the name “Manager Song,” finally looked at the screen. The blurry conference camera only showed a small figure.

Still, her voice was clear and organized, her points unbiased. After understanding the matter, Chen Jubai asked, “What’s your opinion, Director Su?”

Su Gong replied, “It’s a small project for us. Since we’ve had prior experience, we can take it on.”

“And Manager Shan?”

“No issues,” Shan Kaicheng replied.

“Then move forward with it,” Chen Jubai said.

The meeting ended there, but Chu Qi forgot to exit the online room, and a conversation between him and Chen Jubai was audible.

“I heard the banquet President Bi arranged tonight is at a high-end club. They go all out there,” Chu Qi said, his tone full of curiosity and mischief. “President Chen, take it easy tonight.”

Before the reply could be heard, Su Gong quickly ended the meeting.

Song Wei: ???

“Go all out”? “Take it easy”?

Well, well, Chen Jubai—partying hard on the first day of their marriage? No wonder he had rushed to Shenzhen.

Was he one of those seemingly honest but secretly wild types?

So much for a flash marriage with no risks.

As the three walked out of the meeting room, Su Gong interrupted her spiraling thoughts. “Manager Song, once the collaboration is secured, you’ll be in charge of this project.”

Song Wei asked, “What about President Jiang?”

“President Jiang has already approved it,” Su Gong replied.

Left with no choice, she agreed.

Su Gong called out to the man rushing ahead, “Shan Kaicheng, where are you rushing to? Reincarnation?”

Shan Kaicheng replied impatiently, “What now?”

“You’ll be working with Manager Song next. Be more respectful.”

Shan Kaicheng glanced at Song Wei again, nodded, and left.

Su Gong sighed helplessly and turned to Song Wei. “Our tech experts all act like kings.”

Song Wei silently agreed but maintained a professional tone. “Technical teams do tend to be busy.”

-First Day of the New Year

Song Wei returned to her office and mulled things over before calling in Yao Miaoxuan.

Group A was currently handling two projects. Ji Yao and Dong Ruicheng were already tied up, leaving only Yao Miaoxuan with some free time.

Previously, Li Cheng had warned Song Wei about Yao Miaoxuan’s temperament. Coming from a wealthy family, she had the airs of a spoiled young lady and wasn’t great at getting along with others. The advice was simple: keep it strictly business and don’t bother trying to build rapport.

Now, looking at the impeccably dressed girl in front of her, with her expensive-looking necklace and bracelet, her slightly tilted chin, and a hint of disdain in her gaze, Song Wei felt the “princess attitude” description was spot-on.

Keeping things professional, Song Wei said, “Miaoxuan, our team is about to take on a new project, and I want you to lead it. It’s in the smart education field. Spend the next few days familiarizing yourself with the market, and we’ll prepare for the next steps once the partnership is finalized.”

“Smart education? Isn’t the market already saturated?”

“Where did you get that conclusion?”

Yao Miaoxuan faltered but remained defiant. “Everyone’s doing it to death.”

“I rely on reports, not hearsay,” Song Wei replied firmly, meeting her gaze with unwavering resolve. “I’ll need market research and a competitor analysis from you.”

Yao gave her a sidelong glance and walked out.

6:00 PM – End of Work

When Song Wei returned home, she was greeted by a pleasant surprise—her parents, Song Gaoyi and Yang Yingqiu, were there, and the aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air.

Song Gaoyi stepped out of the kitchen holding a spatula. “Just got off work?”

Yang Yingqiu appeared at the doorway of the study, asking, “Didn’t Xiao Chen come back with you?”

“…?” Song Wei was puzzled by the situation.

Yang Yingqiu frowned. “Today’s a special day. Why isn’t Xiao Chen here with you?”

Seeing the three dishes already laid out on the table, Song Wei realized they had planned a celebration. Feeling a little awkward, she explained, “He’s on a business trip…”

“A business trip? At this hour?” Yang Yingqiu’s frown deepened. “Call him.”

At past 6 PM, there was a high chance he was already at some upscale club enjoying himself. Song Wei silently prayed for him.

As the phone rang, Song Wei glanced at her mother’s expression—it didn’t look promising.

“Chen Jubai, you’d better handle this well,” she thought.

When the call connected, Song Wei handed the phone over. “My mom wants to talk to you.”

On his way to the club with Chu Qi, Chen Jubai’s heart skipped a beat. “Alright.”

Yang Yingqiu took the phone and walked to the balcony. Her tone was less severe than her expression. “You’re on a business trip?”

“Yes, I’m in Shenzhen. I’ll be back in a few days.”

Yang Yingqiu wasn’t truly angry, but there were things she needed to address. Knowing that her husband, Song Gaoyi, would play the nice guy, she took on the “bad cop” role. “Xiao Chen, this marriage was far too hasty. Did your father even agree to it?”

“…He doesn’t know.”

“Then can you guarantee that Weiwei won’t be mistreated in this marriage?”

“She won’t. I won’t let her suffer.”

“You talk big, but she’s already at a disadvantage. She married you hastily, with no proper ceremonies or traditions. Tell me, where’s the fairness in that?”

Chen Jubai sat up straighter. “Auntie—no, Mom. Once I’m back, I’ll make it right. There will be a formal ceremony, betrothal gifts, and a proper wedding. I promise.”

Yang Yingqiu’s tone softened slightly. “Xiao Chen, I don’t care why you and Weiwei got married. Now that you’re married, you need to take responsibility. Love her, protect her. Let me make this clear: if she ever sheds a tear in front of me because of you, don’t expect to see her again.”

“Understood, you have my word.”

“Good. When you’re back, come home for dinner.”

“Alright, Mom.”

Hearing him call her “Mom” after a pause, Yang Yingqiu finally ended the call.

Meanwhile, Chen Jubai lowered the car window, but the cool breeze did little to dissipate the heat rising within him.

Chu Qi, sitting beside him, was stunned—not just by the content of the conversation but also by the beads of sweat on Chen’s forehead.

Wide-eyed, Chu Qi asked, “That was…?”

Chen kept his eyes on the road ahead. “My mother-in-law.”

“…”

Chu Qi was floored. Still trying to process it, he was about to ask more when Chen picked up another call. This time, his tone was calm and warm. “What’s up?”

Earlier, Song Wei hadn’t heard her mother’s words clearly, but the volume suggested they weren’t soft. Now back in her room, she stifled a laugh. “Did my mom scold you?”

“No, she just gave me some advice.”

“Really?” Knowing Yang Yingqiu’s initial hostility, Song Wei wanted to smooth things over. “My parents thought we’d be home today and made a special dinner. I think they wanted to celebrate. Since you weren’t here, they called you.”

After hesitating briefly, she added, “They’ve raised me for over twenty years, and now I’ve suddenly married you. My mom’s probably feeling a bit emotional. If she said anything harsh, don’t take it personally.”

Hearing her softened tone, which almost sounded like she was coaxing him, Chen’s lips curved slightly. “She didn’t say anything harsh. It’s my fault for not calling her first.”

After all… Chen Jubai glanced down, hiding the faint smile in his eyes.

He had indeed married their cherished daughter.

“We’ll sort it out when you’re back. My dad’s calling me to dinner now.”

Just as he was about to respond, he heard her murmur something almost inaudible: “Chen Jubai, happy wedding day.”

The call ended abruptly.

Ten seconds later, Chu Qi exclaimed a string of disbeliefs. Piecing together the phone conversations, he asked, “Wait, when did you even start dating? How are you already married?”

Chen glanced at him and calmly corrected, “Not dating. Married.”