Chapter 29.2

Sharing the blame felt fairer.

Lin Jinshen considered her words before replying, “Alright.” His calm agreement betrayed no hesitation or guilt.

This wasn’t how Lu Yi imagined it would go. She thought he’d at least say something like, That’s not necessary, so she could insist it was fine. Instead, she barely brought it up, and he readily accepted.

The adjustment thrilled the photography crew. They initially braced themselves for a grueling schedule based on Lin Jinshen’s earlier briefing, imagining three outfits per day in a tightly packed itinerary. If the newlyweds would feel tired, the crew—hauling heavy equipment and sweating under the island sun—would suffer even more. Complaints were inevitable, though they’d endure it for the paycheck.

Now, with the change, they were ecstatic. The mornings were for work, and the rest of the day was free for leisure. Expenses on the island were covered, so it felt like a paid vacation.

After the morning shoot, Lin Jinshen returned to the villa to work, while Lu Yi joined the photography team for some relaxation. She explored the local market, indulged in a spa session, and spent the hotter parts of the day at the beach bar, gazing at the ocean and chatting with locals.

When approached by strangers trying to flirt, she simply held up her wedding ring. That subtle gesture was far more effective than words in warding off unwanted attention.

She fully embraced the vacation vibes, even shopping for small gifts for friends and family at the market. The photographer captured candid shots, and when she looked through them, they were stunning. Lu Yi picked nine photos, posted them to her social media, and captioned it: Today’s personal photographer—thank you, jpg.

Within minutes, her friends flooded the comments.

Lin Yumuo: Sister-in-law, you’re incredible… What did my brother ever do to deserve this?

Yu Yin: AHHH! My goddess is finally active! You’re killing me with this beauty!

[Anonymous]: What’s the occasion? My goddess posted? I’m in tears!

[Another comment]: Soft and sweet—let me shower you with kisses!

Wu Sidong: Creeps, back off. Protecting this angel is our solemn duty.

[Yet another comment]: Quick question—did Lin take these photos?

[Reply]: Are you dumb? These are clearly professional shots. Lin Jinshen? A straight-laced guy like him? No chance.

Yu Qian: Wow, gorgeous! Meanwhile, here I am working like a mule. Envious doesn’t even cover it!

Lu Yi addressed the curiosity about the photographer by tagging him directly, recommending his services, and helping him get exposure. The photographer expressed his gratitude repeatedly, thrilled by the shoutout.

After indulging in a small dessert, Lu Yi noticed a new notification—a like and a response to Lin Yumuo’s comment.

It was from Lin Jinshen. His reply was a simple: ?

—

Lin Jinshen had only seen Lu Yi’s post because of Mrs. Qin. She’d complimented him for apparently taking her advice to heart, praising how well he photographed Lu Yi. “This marriage is clearly doing you some good,” she’d remarked.

Confused by her words, he opened Lu Yi’s profile, which he’d pinned under “Wife,” and saw her latest post.

Nine photos. He clicked on the first one, pausing for several seconds before scrolling to the next. In a soft blue gown, her long hair cascaded down her back, framed by fan-shaped earrings. Whether she was leaning over a market stall to pick out souvenirs or simply caught in a candid moment, her elegance radiated in every shot.

When he finished looking, his eyes landed on Lin Yumuo’s comment: What did my brother ever do to deserve this?

“…”

A few minutes later, he sent Lu Yi a message: Where are you?

Her response came half an hour later: Out playing. I might not come back for dinner—don’t wait for me.

“…”

That evening, Lu Yi prepared to visit a renowned beachside bar.

The bar featured beanbags and beach chairs under string lights. There was live music, dancing, and even fire shows. As the sun set over the sea, the atmosphere turned lively with people enjoying ice-cold beers and colorful cocktails.

The crew had done their research. Originally worried they wouldn’t have time for sightseeing, they now seized the opportunity to experience the island’s nightlife.

When they arrived, the music was already pumping. Young men and women swayed to the beat, beers in hand, enjoying the freedom of anonymity.

“This place is lit!”

“I hear it’s also a great spot for romantic encounters. Something about the mix of alcohol and music—passionate and thrilling.”

“You’re here for work or to find a girlfriend?”

“…”

The makeup artist crossed her arms and teased, “Honey, don’t listen to them. They talk a big game, but when it comes down to it, they’re the most timid of all.”

Lu Yi smiled. “I know, it’s fine. Everyone just relax and have fun.”

She found a seat and settled down, ready to enjoy the sunset.

The others couldn’t stay put. They wandered off to order drinks, dance, and soak up the moment.

Her view was suddenly blocked by a figure—a young man with blond hair and blue eyes. He asked if she was alone. Familiar with such pick-up lines, she instinctively held up her hand, showing off her wedding ring.

The young man was unfazed. He raised his hand, showing off a ring of his own.

“…”

“It’s okay,” he said with a sunny smile. He wore a tank top and beach shorts, his gym-toned muscles on display. “I’m just looking to make a friend. You seemed lonely, and leaving you by yourself wouldn’t be very gentlemanly.”

Lu Yi explained she was here with friends, glancing around, only to realize none of her group was nearby.

The young man’s smile widened, his teeth dazzling. “I’ll just sit here for a moment. Once your friends come back, I’ll leave.”

She felt a headache coming on, surprised at how persistent he was. Pulling out her phone, she prepared to message the photography crew, asking anyone to come to her rescue.

Before she could send the message, a familiar voice spoke up.

A deep, steady voice with impeccable English: “She doesn’t like your type.”

Lin Jinshen stood nearby, dressed casually in a light-colored shirt and knee-length shorts. His dark sunglasses couldn’t hide the sharpness of his expression.

The young man looked surprised. “Who are you?”

“Her husband,” he replied curtly.

Lu Yi propped her chin on her hand, finding the scene amusing for reasons she couldn’t fully explain. Maybe it was how rare it was to see him dressed so casually. Or perhaps it was the way he introduced himself—clear and definitive. He’d introduced her before, and now it was his turn to make his identity known. He really seemed to enjoy emphasizing that.

The young man quickly apologized and left.

Lin Jinshen took off his sunglasses, his deep-set eyes calm and restrained.

“Blockhead,” Lu Yi murmured, resting her chin in her palm as she looked at him. The phrase popped into her mind, so she said it aloud.

He frowned slightly. “What?”

“Nothing.” She brushed it off with a faint smile. “Sit down. The sunset is starting.”

The sunset was breathtaking, a golden blaze melting into the sea, staining the water crimson.

Unfortunately, the serene moment didn’t last long. Not long after the sun disappeared, rain began to fall.

The downpour came without much warning, the heavy drops quickly escalating into a torrential rain. Most of the tourists rushed back to their hotels.

Lu Yi and Lin Jinshen were among them, but the rain intensified so much that they had to find temporary shelter. They ended up under a small pavilion with a palm-leaf roof that barely offered any protection. Outside, the rain poured in sheets; inside, it dripped steadily.

Both of them were soaked. Lu Yi’s soft blue dress turned a deeper shade, clinging to her skin. Lin Jinshen wasn’t much better off.

Their eyes met, and something indescribable passed between them—a strange, magnetic pull. The air seemed charged, as if their gazes had tangible weight. Rainy days always seemed to evoke something.

The sound of the rain drowned out their erratic heartbeats.

The world felt paradoxically quiet and chaotic, a peculiar contradiction.

Forced to stand close together, their hands accidentally brushed. His palm then covered the back of her hand. His gaze shifted to her lips, and his fingers gently touched the corner of her mouth.

His eyelashes were damp and lowered, hiding the emotions in his eyes. His voice, low and steady, mingled with the sound of the rain.

“A husband kissing his wife,” he said, “is perfectly normal.”

When he cupped her face and kissed her, the words echoed clearly in her ears.