Cen Wei didn’t stay long before being called away, leaving Chu Lai inside, bored and playing games.

Outside, Xuan Rongqing was welcoming guests. When she saw Cen Wei arrive, she introduced him.

Cen Wei was a little surprised to see Ding Xiulin. The other person was chatting with a lady around Xuan Rongqing’s age.

Ding Xiulin was dressed in a white suit, looking quite elegant. It seemed like the family in front of him was his brother’s, much older than him. They appeared to be getting along well. When Ding Xiulin shook hands with Cen Wei, he smiled and said, “Congratulations on your wedding.”

Cen Wei responded, “Thank you.”

After that family went inside, Cen Wei asked Xuan Rongqing, “I didn’t see him on the guest list. Do you know him?”

Xuan Rongqing replied, “I just found out. Uncle Xiao has been widowed for many years, right? When you were still in school, he was already dating this lady. Her son is from her previous marriage.”

Before Cen Wei could say anything, Xuan Rongqing sighed, “The kid’s pretty handsome. I saw him once at the apartment, and he left quite an impression.”

Cen Wei: …

Good thing Chu Lai doesn’t like handsome guys.

Before Xuan Rongqing could finish her words, more guests arrived. This time it was Jiang Liyong’s parents.

Everyone knew they were divorced, but since the Cen family had strong connections with both of them, they still came together for the wedding, which was quite respectful.

While the elders chatted, Liu Yuan, who was standing behind them like a Jiang family member, asked Cen Wei, “Mr. Cen, where’s Lai Lai? Can I go find him?”

Cen Wei replied, “In the lounge.”

He glanced at the paper bag Liu Yuan was holding. There was a hole in it, and though it was unclear what was inside, it looked like fabric.

Probably surprised that Liu Yuan had arrived with Jiang Liyong, Cen Wei glanced between the two of them for a second. Jiang Liyong explained, “We ran into each other along the way.”

Liu Yuan, noticing what Cen Wei was thinking, bluntly said, “It’s not like I’m so desperate that I’d start seeing my ex’s brother right after a breakup.”

Perhaps that sounded a bit harsh, so he sincerely added, “But, big brother, you’re definitely not a scumbag.”

“I’m just here to give Lai Lai a wedding gift,” Liu Yuan continued.

Cen Wei nodded, glanced at Jiang Liyong once more, and then walked into the hall with his parents to avoid being teased by the groom.

Chu Lai was still looking through the photos they took last night when they went out together. The satay beef had become a reminder of their bond, much like the green peppers they ate together.

Chu Lai thought that if they ever parted ways in the future, every time he ate green peppers, he’d think of Cen Wei, and the same would go for the satay beef.

Why was it that after waiting so long, it turned out there was a machine error, and they had to wait another half hour? Normally, Chu Lai would’ve just gone to another restaurant, but for some reason, he wanted to wait that day.

Cen Wei didn’t object either, thankfully, since he had a bowl of pork rib soup before leaving. Wandering around the mall together wasn’t boring.

Chu Lai was so engrossed in flipping through the photos that he didn’t even notice the knock on the lounge door. He thought it was Liu Yuan and casually said, “Come in.”

Only when the person entered did Chu Lai look up and see Ding Xiulin.

He looked at the visitor in surprise, “Why are you here?”

Ding Xiulin, in a perfectly fitted suit, looked very graceful. He greeted Chu Lai, “I came with my mom.”

Chu Lai wasn’t too familiar with his family, but from the way he said it, it sounded like they had a formal invitation. “Your parents know the Cen family?”

Ding Xiulin nodded, “My mom remarried when I was in my third year of high school, so I went abroad for college afterward.”

Their alma mater wasn’t particularly prestigious, and their families didn’t have many resources either.

Cen Wei went abroad to get a fresh perspective, but since he was a few years older than Chu Lai, they never crossed paths.

Chu Lai nodded. His hair was styled in the morning, and even though the room was heated, he still wrapped himself in a colorful blanket over his suit, showcasing his unique style.

Ding Xiulin asked, “Are you feeling better from your cold?”

Chu Lai paused for a few seconds before putting down his phone. He sensed that Ding Xiulin seemed to have more to say.

He responded with a “hmm” and asked, “Do you have something you want to talk to me about?”

Chu Lai looked at him seriously. His gaze was clear, but like the time he rejected Ding Xiulin, it carried a sense of distance.

Back then, Ding Xiulin didn’t know the truth. Now, the music had already started playing outside.

Right outside the lounge was the backup lawn for the wedding. If it didn’t snow, Plan A would’ve been an outdoor wedding. There were many guests, and Chu Lai recognized a lot of familiar faces from the industry.

Ding Xiulin said, “I heard.”

Chu Lai blinked, “Heard what?”

Leaning back on the couch, he set aside his tablet. Ding Xiulin glanced at it. The game on the lock screen was still in auto-battle mode.

It naturally reminded Ding Xiulin of the time when Chu Lai was playing Temple Run under the desk during a summer break.

At the time, Ding Xiulin had passed by him, amused by what he saw, and the image of the red mole on Chu Lai’s wrist stayed in his mind. He didn’t understand why then, but later he realized it was too late.

Ding Xiulin asked, “Are you and Cen Wei in a contract marriage?”

Chu Lai thought of the night they waited a long time for the elevator in the parking garage. He could guess that Ding Xiulin had overheard him and Cen Wei returning from the hospital.

The parking garage was never an ideal place to discuss secrets. The late-night silence made everything easy to overhear.

Ding Xiulin looked at Chu Lai, who had a pale complexion. Even without makeup, his lips were rosy, and today, being his wedding day, he had dressed up carefully.

Chu Lai replied, “It was a contract marriage at first, but not anymore.”

Ding Xiulin didn’t step closer to Chu Lai. It felt like years ago when they were in school, and Chu Lai, sleepy from attending a sports event, barely filled a spot in the crowd. After running the 400 meters, Ding Xiulin returned and sat a seat away, placing down some snacks.

The Chu Lai of those days resembled a butterfly that would fly away if startled. Now, however, Chu Lai had flown into someone else’s garden.

Ding Xiulin knew this marriage was solid. He’d seen fragments of Chu Lai’s daily life shared on social media, each piece hinting at Cen Wei’s presence, a testament to the sincerity behind Chu Lai’s past rejection.

Since Ding Xiulin already knew, Chu Lai didn’t bother lying. It was too much trouble. “At first, it was a contract, but after spending time together, we realized it wasn’t so bad.”

“Cen Wei is a good person. I really…”

He glanced at the fruit on the table, a gift from Cen Wei. It wasn’t exactly proper for a wedding spouse to stay away from the guests, but Cen Wei didn’t force him.

If anything, Cen Wei indulged him, letting Chu Lai fall into his embrace, knowing that even if he fell, the soft carpet laid by Cen Wei would catch him.

Chu Lai couldn’t help but smile, “… like him.”

It wasn’t hard for Ding Xiulin to guess that what Chu Lai meant by “at first” and “later” included developing feelings over time.

He remembered noticing the odd dynamic between Chu Lai and Cen Wei when they met again, confirming that his intuition hadn’t been wrong. But now, it was too late. The questions were answered, and nothing unexpected remained. Ding Xiulin smiled and handed over a gift envelope. “Congratulations on your wedding.”

Since he had come, Chu Lai didn’t refuse. “Thank you for coming to my wedding.”

Then, muttering to himself, he added, “I told you not to bother. I didn’t even invite my colleagues.”

Ding Xiulin noticed how at ease Chu Lai seemed alone in the lounge, playing games with tea readily available. It was clear someone had taken good care of him.

He asked, “Am I just a colleague?”

The man smiled, his eyes quite striking. His style was very different from Cen Wei’s. After a couple of glances, Chu Lai realized he still found Cen Wei more pleasing to the eye.

Chu Lai replied, “We’re not even friends. We’re not that close.”

Ding Xiulin shook his head, “You’re a bit heartless.”

Chu Lai nodded cheerfully, “Everyone thinks that.”

He imitated something Ding Xiulin’s friends used to say back in high school, “Chu Lai’s always got that cold, distant expression. So annoying.”

His imitation was pretty spot-on, making Ding Xiulin laugh. “That wasn’t me who said it.”

Chu Lai looked at him, a bit vengeful, “But didn’t you nod in agreement?”

Who knows how old that grudge was. They chatted for a while longer.

Liu Yuan, who had been searching for the lounge for ages, finally found it, only to spot Cen Wei at the door.

The lounge wasn’t easy to find; the entrance was hidden in a tricky spot and easily overlooked.

When Liu Yuan saw Cen Wei, he was startled, thinking, Have I been lost for that long?

Just as he was about to say something, he heard a voice from inside—a man’s voice: “Can you grant me a request?”

Then came Chu Lai’s voice, though it was noticeably lower, making it hard to hear. But given Liu Yuan’s familiarity with Chu Lai’s social circle, he could easily guess who it was through the process of elimination.

He almost screamed out loud. The groom was standing right outside! Chu Lai, how is your life so dramatic? Is this really what I think it is? Your ex shows up on your wedding day?

Liu Yuan was both envious and nervous, glancing at the man standing beside him.

He had no idea when Cen Wei had positioned himself there, gripping the door handle tightly. Even his hands were a sight to behold, not to mention his face, which was no less attractive than a celebrity’s.

However, half of Cen Wei’s face was hidden in the shadows, making it impossible to discern his expression.

Liu Yuan didn’t know whether to stay or leave. He thought, The hotel’s soundproofing is terrible, and the gap in the door is huge. Was it left open on purpose?

Just as Ding Xiulin started asking, “Could you bring Cen Wei to the school reunion next year?” the door opened.

With a soft click, everyone inside turned to see who had entered. Liu Yuan saw the man inside as well.

It was indeed Chu Lai’s first crush and class president.

Liu Yuan suddenly felt a bit sour. Ever since Chu Lai broke up with Shen Quanzhang, his romantic prospects have skyrocketed. Is being cheated on some kind of love-life boost? Where’s my luck?

Liu Yuan sneaked a glance at the man standing beside him.

Without waiting for Chu Lai to speak, Ding Xiulin stood up and said, “Just catching up with an old friend, nothing more.”

The atmosphere was heavy. Chu Lai noticed Liu Yuan behind Cen Wei, who was winking at him as if saying, You’re really lucky.

Chu Lai twitched his mouth, thinking, Lucky my ass.

He looked at Cen Wei, but the other man remained silent. With that, Ding Xiulin left.

Liu Yuan didn’t feel comfortable entering. He tossed the paper bag to Chu Lai and made his exit.

Inside, only Chu Lai and Cen Wei were left. Chu Lai’s phone was still stuck on the game screen, its background music cheerful. Cen Wei couldn’t help but wonder, What did Ding Xiulin say to him? Did he confess again?

Countless thoughts raced through his mind, though his expression remained neutral. The next second, a white veil covered his face. The culprit spun around and admired him for a moment, saying, “I think this suits you better.”

This idea had been Liu Yuan’s, suggesting that besides the cash gift, he should also give a special surprise.

Liu Yuan had sent the finished product to Chu Lai at dawn, but Chu Lai had only seen it in the morning. By then, it was too late to stop him.

Chu Lai couldn’t even imagine wearing this thing. Even though the craftsmanship was exquisite, it still looked odd, especially in front of so many people.

But now, as he and Cen Wei looked at each other through the veil, Chu Lai could read the concern in his eyes.

Chu Lai said, “He knows about our contract marriage.”

Cen Wei grabbed his hand, “But we aren’t anymore.”

Perhaps it was the seriousness in Cen Wei’s expression that made Chu Lai cup his face and smile, “What are you so worried about? It’s not like I plan on divorcing you.”

It’s rare for people to talk about divorce on their wedding day, yet both of them didn’t find it unusual.

It was their first time getting married, and their steps weren’t like ordinary people’s. If a flash marriage led to a flash divorce, it wouldn’t be surprising, but Cen Wei didn’t want that.

He continued to stare silently at Chu Lai. As Chu Lai let go of his hand and prepared to say something, the next second, he was pulled into a tight embrace and fell onto the soft sofa.

The playful veil fell to the floor as Chu Lai was met with a rough kiss. Their fingers intertwined tightly, as if Cen Wei was pouring out all his long-suppressed anxiety and desire.

Cen Wei held Chu Lai tightly, his voice coming out low and raspy, as if still holding back something.

His words came out with more force than his embrace: “Don’t be with him.”

Clearly, he was the one who started it, yet he was the one panting now. The man who always appeared composed and elite wasn’t particularly good at kissing in the beginning. He needed Chu Lai to teach him.

Not that Chu Lai was an expert either, but as they kissed, they learned from each other, quickly picking up on what the other wanted.

Chu Lai hugged him back, “I’ll only be with you.”

He didn’t want to bring up others, listening to Cen Wei’s heartbeat as he asked, “If we hadn’t gotten close, if today’s wedding was just for show, would you have come in after hearing that?”

He thought Cen Wei wouldn’t have. He assumed that Cen Wei’s sudden entrance was due to their growing relationship. But to his surprise, the man said—

“I would have.”

Chu Lai was stunned for a few seconds, a bit taken aback.

Cen Wei adjusted Chu Lai’s collar, fastening the buttons to hide the red marks on his neck from the excessive kissing. “No matter how many times, I’ll always like you.”

“Lai Lai, this isn’t something I can control.”

Chu Lai stared at him, dazed.

He had been in relationships before, but he had never felt this moved. His hands acted on their own, cupping Cen Wei’s face. The other man glanced at his watch, about to say something, but it was cut off by another kiss.

The buttons that had just been fastened came undone again. Cen Wei’s meticulous appearance was completely shattered as their heavy breathing intertwined, their kisses growing more fervent, until Xuan Rongqing’s phone call interrupted them.

Cen Wei pulled back a little, “We need to head out.”

Chu Lai asked, “Can’t we just skip the wedding?”

Cen Wei thought for a moment, “At least exchange the rings.”

Chu Lai reached into his pocket, “They’re not here?”

At this point, neither of them was presentable. After changing into new outfits under Xuan Rongqing’s urging, they finally headed out.

Many people had never met Chu Lai, but the rumors of Cen Wei being cheated on were widely known. And today, the person who supposedly cheated on him was also at the event.

Liu Yuan, immersed in the biggest gossip of the year, was both excited and nervous.

Shen Ke, whispering to Yuan Chen, glanced at the grand scene, while Liu Yuan sat alone next to Jiang Liyong.

He quietly asked Jiang Liyong, “Big brother, aren’t you feeling awkward?”

Jiang Liyong had corrected Liu Yuan’s way of addressing him countless times, but Liu Yuan’s “big brother” was so forceful that anyone who didn’t know better might think they were street hustlers.

Jiang Liyong twitched his mouth, “Why would I feel awkward?”

Many people’s eyes were on their table, and it didn’t take much to guess what gossip they were spreading.

Wasn’t it the story of how Cen Wei’s childhood friend became the third party, stole his boyfriend, and quickly got married? In response, Cen Wei, unwilling to be outdone, also had a flash marriage?

Who would’ve thought it would all end up as true love, burning as fast as a wildfire?

As the wedding march played in the background, Liu Yuan glanced at Cen Wei’s ex-boyfriend, Shen Ke, who looked almost dazzling. He thought, Two guys together don’t necessarily look good, but with this much flair…

But the Cen family’s setup was so grand that even Liu Yuan was a bit intimidated.

He muttered, “They’re really putting a lot of pressure on Chu Lai. It’s like he’s giving a graduation speech. Is he gonna bail?”

Liu Yuan’s metaphors were always unique. Jiang Liyong stayed quiet for a long time before saying, “Haven’t you noticed there are only a few tables here? We’re in the inner circle.”

If it weren’t for the snow outside, the wedding would’ve taken place on the lawn.

For an ordinary citizen like Liu Yuan, this was his first time attending such a high-end banquet, and he couldn’t help but say, “Not even concerts are this fancy.”

They initially expected the newlyweds to give a speech, but no one showed up.

The host had never seen such a situation before. Thankfully, the wedding company was experienced, and they quickly switched to a different plan, where Cen Jianzun gave a speech about his grandson’s wedding.

Suddenly, someone in the audience let out a loud shout, causing everyone to look in the direction of the person’s gaze.

The few tables inside were separated from the outdoors by large floor-to-ceiling windows, and several people noticed two figures running in the falling snow outside.

One was dressed in a suit, holding a distinctive umbrella. The other wore a thick cloak, being guided by the other person’s arm as they ran.

The tassels on the umbrella danced in harmony with the snow, creating an unexpectedly beautiful and romantic scene.

Liu Yuan looked down at his phone and saw a message from Chu Lai sent two minutes earlier: Eat and drink well. I’m leaving early. Let’s catch up another time.

He glanced outside again, where Cen Jianzun was still on stage, looking full of joy, as if he had just gained a great-grandson.

Inside, the live band was playing a soft, romantic tune, which, coincidentally, became the perfect soundtrack for the couple running off together outside on the lawn.

Even the normally composed Jiang Liyong couldn’t help but exclaim, “Whoa!”

The second-generation heir, Yuan Chen, who had been labeled as the “third party” clicked his tongue twice. “I never expected this from Cen Wei.”

Shen Ke, resting his chin in his hand, admired the scene of the newlyweds in the snow. “It turns out that even wood can blossom. It just needs to meet the right person.”

“So, he’s not frigid after all.”

Everyone turned to look at Jiang Liyong, the doctor. He raised his eyelids and said, “Why are you looking at me? I’m an orthopedic surgeon, not a urologist.”

“Besides, being frigid doesn’t mean impotence. It can be treated.”

He thought of how dejected Cen Wei had looked that day and added, “Even dry wood can burn into a blazing fire.”

Liu Yuan nodded in agreement, not sure what he was thinking, and replied to Chu Lai with—

Would you like me to share some five-star tips for your wedding night?