Chapter 37: Spring Festival

The next day, Shen Yanming contacted Charles, the manager of his Netherlands-based supermarket, to request another batch of supplies. This time, he emphasized baby products— clothes, shoes, milk powder, diapers, and other necessities for various ages. Naturally, he also requested a collection of small umbrellas. As he did so, he couldn’t resist a mischievous smile.

Shen Yanming and Bi Qiao’an returned to their normal routines, savoring these final months of tranquility.

When the Spring Festival came around, the couple decided to fly back to the Netherlands. Upon their arrival, Charles greeted them at the airport and took them directly to the warehouse.

Charles had already prepared a vast array of supplies by discretion, all of which were expensive high-end brands. Observing Shen Yanming’s expression, Charles worried that his initiative might displease his client.

Shen Yanming remained composed though inwardly he was surprised by the sheer volume. He understood Charles’ motivation; more supplies meant higher commissions and likely some generous kickbacks.

“Well done!” Shen Yanming wasn’t concerned with the cost. The sheer quantity was impressive, earning Charles his praise.

Charles was pleased and assured Shen Yanming he’d continue acquiring everything they needed. After completing their transaction, Shen Yanming instructed Charles to continue purchasing supplies.

Though it was not his original intent, Shen Yanming felt it would be wasteful not to further take advantage of the Netherlands.

Next, the couple ventured to Maldives, situated in the southern hemisphere and basking in its summer months. Bi Qiao’an eagerly changed into a flowy dress, ready to embark on a “honeymoon trip” with Shen Yanming.

This was their true honeymoon; when they eventually married, the circumstances would hardly allow for such a trip. Their previous overseas venture had been dominated by collecting supplies. This time, they relaxed. With their preparations nearing completion, they deserved to enjoy themselves.

Their days were filled with adventure and relaxation: scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, leisurely walks on sandy beaches, basking in the warm sun, exploring lush parks, capturing memories through photos, indulging in playful moments on swings, browsing local shops, savoring delicious meals, and cozying up for movie nights.

On their final day, Shen Yanming roused Bi Qiao’an early to visit a photo studio. After makeup, hair styling, and trying on wedding dresses, they set out with a photography team, capturing scenes of joy at various scenic locations. The day was long, but the results were immensely satisfying.

Prior to their departure, Shen Yanming coordinated with the studio owner to have retouched digital versions of the photos sent to his email. He also requested that a complete album be shipped to Qinghua using international express mail.

Back in the Netherlands, Shen Yanming and Bi Qiao’an collected another warehouse full of supplies prepared by Charles. This time, it was all luxury goods. Bi Qiao’an couldn’t help but sympathize with Shen Yanming’s visible disappointment. He’d hoped for more survival necessities, but Charles had procured a vast collection of designer watches, bags, clothing, and cosmetics. Despite wanting to reprimand Charles, Shen Yanming held his tongue and proceeded to pay for the goods.

When the two returned to Qinghua in mid-February, the Spring Festival holiday was ending. They brought small gifts for their colleagues— candies and snacks purchased in the Netherlands.

While they were away, several significant events took place back home. For instance, Zhang Heping had moved a new girlfriend into apartment 1601. There was also Zhang Chenjun, who persevered and, after two months, successfully connected with Xiao Fei at Feiyang International. And then there was Wei Yun, who discovered the truth about Shen Yanming.

How did she learn this? Shen Yanming’s coworker, Mi Xue’er, played an unwitting role.

Over the Spring Festival holiday, Wei Yun’s sister, Wei Mo, returned from abroad. Naturally, she wanted to gather with her friends, including Mi Xue’er, a classmate from high school. Although their paths diverged after college, their friendship remained strong.

Mi Xue’er and Wei Mo sat on her living room sofa while chatting about family matters. Gradually, their conversation shifted to discussing each other’s relationship issues.

“I have a crush on this man at work, Shen Yanming,” Mi Xue’er confided in Wei Mo. 

“He’s handsome, rich, capable… but sadly, he has a girlfriend. I shouldn’t be obsessed, but I can’t help it. He treats his girlfriend so well, he’s an absolute dream boyfriend! Should I pursue him, even though he avoids me? Xiao Mo’er, tell me what to do? I really like him so much!”

Unbeknownst to Mi Xue’er, Wei Mo’s sister, Wei Yun, had emerged from her bedroom and stood at the staircase and overheard the entire conversation. As she listened, Wei Yun gritted her teeth while overflowing with resentment.

Aware that Wei Mo’s friend worked at the Management Bureau, which had mandatory strict physical exams, Wei Yun began to put the pieces together. If this man was indeed the same Shen Yanming she knew, then Cai Chun had shamelessly lied to her!

After returning to her room, Wei Yun immediately ordered someone to investigate this Shen Yanming they were talking about. In a matter of moments, his information— including a familiar face in the photo, was sent to her phone. She could barely contain her fury as she stared at the photo. After a fierce outburst in the bedroom, she composed herself and made a decision and picked up her phone.

“Cai Chun, why did you lie?”

“Miss Wei, what are you talking about?”

“You claimed Shen Yanming was ill, but he’s at the Management Bureau! Explain this!” Upon hearing Cai Chun’s denial, Wei Yun felt the urge to tear him to shreds.

“Miss Wei, I swear, I heard the doctor myself!”

“But he’s working for the government!”

“Miss Wei, could there be a mistake? How could someone like President Shen settle for a subordinate role?”

“Impossible. My investigation is thorough. Return to Qinghua at once.”

“Miss Wei, sorry. I have important work in Europa…”

“Cai Chun, if you don’t comply, I’ll expose your betrayal to the world. You think I wouldn’t? Heh, I’ll just be seen as a woman scorned, driven mad by love. But you? Betraying your boss? No one will ever trust you again!”

“Wei Yun, you…”

“If you want me to keep my mouth shut, come back to the country and do something for me. As long as you finish this, we’ll go our separate ways!”

Following an extended pause, Cai Chun grudgingly acquiesced, “Okay.”

Cai Chun felt irked, as he knew Wei Yun was demanding something dangerous. He had no choice but to comply with her demands for the sake of his own future.