Translations by Pearl

Father: Are you already this busy just after getting back to work? Father: You still need to take more care of your health.

As I was getting ready to head out this morning, my father called with a concerned greeting.

Actually, he hasn't been living at home these past few days. It's likely out of respect for my habits—a way to preserve a sense of normalcy in my daily life.

He fixed up a small place nearby and checks in on me from time to time.

Sometimes it’s a home-cooked dinner, and other times it’s a caring phone call, like right now.

In this slightly eerie world, my father’s loving words feel strangely surreal.

Youran: I’m doing fine! Don't worry! Youran: Dad, I’m not a child anymore.

I instinctively tried to hold onto the moment, but something deep inside me continued to waver.

Gentle words echoed in my ear as the dark front door stood before me.

I pushed the door open, and the piercing light hit my retinas, sending a wave of vertigo through me.

Youran: Dad, why are you here?

I didn't even know why I was asking, but some questions just have a way of slipping out instinctively.

The other end of the line fell into a sort of silence before that familiar, tender voice finally drifted through.

Father: Because my business has finally come to an end. Father: After coming home, I was still worried you were just a child.

...

Child's Father: Does that damn school take me for a fool?

Youran: ……From the records, your son, Zhao Yang, seemed like a very sensible child. Have you given any thought as to why he would take his own life?

Child's Father: Why? It’s obviously the school's fault!

Child's Father: Do you have any idea how much money I poured into that boy? To make sure he’d amount to something, I bought only the best milk powder and supplements!

Child's Father: I never missed a single payment for his cram school. Now that he's gone, the school isn't going to compensate me?

Child's Father: Ptui! When it was time to pay tuition, every single one of them was faster than the next to take the cash. Now that something’s happened and they have to cough it up? They’re refusing?

Child's Father: I’m going to make a list of every cent I’ve invested over the years. They’re going to pay me back double.

Youran: ……Double?

Child's Father: I have to have another one, don't I? Does that not cost money? Is that not a cost?

Child's Father: I’m telling you, not only must they pay, they’re going to be responsible for taking care of me in my old age. The school owes me that much.

Youran: But regarding the reason your son jumped……

Child's Father: He’s already dead, why bother with that?!

Child's Father: You’re with the media, right! I’ll cooperate with whatever you need me to do. As long as I get my money, I’ll say whatever you want!

Child's Father: Don't you worry about them not having the money to pay out. That school isn't short on cash.

His frantic, hideous words manifested as bloodshot streaks in his eyes, blurring together with every cold or distorted face I had seen over the past few days.

A heavy, searing sensation, like a brand of red-hot iron, began to climb steadily from my chest.

My entire body trembled violently as I tried to suppress something. My temples throbbed incessantly, as if blurry fragments of images were flickering across my mind.

..

The boy sensibly tucked away every cent of pocket money the man and woman gave him. He ate a single biscuit before his small figure darted between various cram schools, large and small.

Child's Father: It’s okay. Your mother and I will give you the very best of everything, no matter what. You’re young, so don't worry about it too much. This bit of hard work is nothing.

Child's Father: Even if I have to sell everything we own, my son is going to have the best education. You won't be second to anyone!

It felt as though a voice flickered past, filled with a heavy yet prideful expectation.

It left the boy’s face pale, yet it also filled him with a desperate, driven resolve.

Child's Father: Spending money on you is just throwing it away.

Something suddenly evaporated into thin air. The boy was hammered against his desk by those ice-cold words. He clutched his head in his hands, his expression completely numb.

Piles of books and test scores became the walls and swords that trapped him. The man cornered him, repeatedly slashing at his body and stabbing at his eyes with the blade.

..

Countless moments of stifled, overlapping memories flashed before me. For a second, I couldn't tell what I was seeing—it felt like the collective grief of that deceased child manifesting in my mind.

Youran: ………Your child is not your property.

Youran: Has it ever occurred to you that your attitude might be one of the reasons he made that choice?

Child's Father: I provided for him, I fed him, and I paid for his education. Now he just goes and dies, and I’m the one not allowed to say I’ve been cheated?

Youran: ……Your child is dead, and all you can think about is being cheated and getting compensation?

Youran: What kind of mindset do you have to have to say something like that?

Child's Father: What’s that supposed to mean? You said you came here to learn about my son, and I told you it was the school's fault. Now you’re turning around and blaming me?

Child's Father: We’re done here. Forget the interview. This is garbage.

With that, he stood up and lunged toward the camera standing nearby.

I instinctively moved to stop him, but he moved as if to shove me aside.

Child's Father: What do you think you're doing? Watch it, or I'll sue you!

He reached out, intending to hurl me further away, but as he swung his hand, it was suddenly caught and locked in mid-air—

Gavin stood coldly behind the man, his black leather gloves glinting with a sharp, metallic chill.

I couldn't tell how long he had been there. His gaze swept over my face before coming to rest on the man's grimacing features.

Gavin: Mind your tongue.

Child's Father: Oh, Officer, you’re here! It was this woman—she started being unreasonable first, saying all these bizarre things.

Child's Father: That thing you asked me to look into, about my son's social circle? I’ve checked everything.

Child's Father: I'm telling you, none of them are any good. There was definitely some negative influence involved! Once I’m done suing the school, I’m coming for every single one of those parents!

As he spoke, he began rummaging through a thick stack of documents on the dining table.

Gavin shifted his gaze back to me, his look clearly signaling for me to leave.

I looked at him but quietly averted my eyes, refusing to take the hint.

Gavin: This is an STF investigation.

Youran: ....The Evolver Company is still filming. Regardless, I was here first.

Gavin: He just said he’s done.

Youran: But you stopped him from leaving, so our recording is still technically in progress.

At that, he arched an eyebrow. With one long stride, he was at the camera. Before the cameraman could even react, Gavin’s black-gloved finger pressed the power button.

Then he looked back at me, looking completely justified in his actions.

I was just about to argue back when that excited voice piped up again.

Child's Father: Found it, Officer! Look at this.

Child's Father: His social media spaces, his Weibo, his Douyin account—oh, and his diary. I had his mother tear through every single one of them.

Stripped-down, jarring details had been bled onto the pages as printed images—it was as if someone had peeled back the boy's skin only to drag out his bones and nerves for display.

Child's Father: I'm going to post all of this online and let everyone see!

Youran: How could you treat what he left behind like this?!

Youran: He’s already gone. Is this really how you’re going to handle his private thoughts?

Child's Father: What’s it to you? If you don't want to film it, I'll find another outlet. You think you're the only media company in Loveland City?

Child's Father: I'm telling you right now, I don't give you permission to release anything we filmed today! If you dare publish a single word...

Gavin: Are these all the records?

Gavin: What about that electronic watch you mentioned he wore? Have you found it yet?

Interrupted by that icy tone, the man instantly shut up and turned back to Gavin, acting respectful once more.

Child's Father: We actually haven't found that. Theoretically, he should have been wearing it every day.

Child's Father: I bet the school hid it! There’s probably some decisive evidence in there!

Gavin: Understood.

Gavin: Thank you for your cooperation.

He turned to leave, but as if remembering something, he paused. He cast a warning look in my direction.

I pursed my lips and signaled to the cameraman. I still gave the man a small, professional nod.

Youran: Thank you for your time today.

Child's Father: Just get out!

Youran: ......

I knit my brows and walked quickly toward the door, but I couldn't stop myself from turning back one last time in anger.

Youran: Just for a single moment... have you missed that child at all?

My only answer was the blunt, heavy thud of the door slamming shut.

I stood there blankly, the hollow void within me tearing further open, leaving a gaping wound devoid of any warmth.

There were already so many reasons for this tragedy to have occurred.

I couldn't even tell if what was happening before me was simply the way things were, or if it was the result of the same influence that had been changing everyone else.

Exactly when did it start? When were that child—and those other children—swallowed whole?

After leaving the residential complex, the cameraman had the sense to get in the car first, leaving me standing alone at the main gate.

Gavin said nothing, simply straddling the seat of his motorcycle.

Youran: Gavin, that child… he didn't deserve to be treated like that.

Gavin: Every family has their own way of dealing with their children.

Gavin: It has nothing to do with us.

Youran: But……!

When I looked up, those amber eyes weren't filled with anger; instead, they were terrifyingly still, pinning me to the spot instantly.

The back of his hand on the handlebar was pulled taut, trembling almost imperceptibly.

Gavin: No one chooses their parents.

Gavin: If you can't endure it, you fight.

Gavin: If you can't fight, you run.

Youran: ......

I had almost never seen this side of Gavin, yet it felt strangely familiar.

He stood a short distance away from me, isolated and sharp, like a man made of jagged edges.

But those edges were peculiar; it was as if they grew inward as well, piercing into his own flesh.

Youran: And what if... they can't win the fight, but they're too afraid to run?

Gavin stood perfectly still, like a silent tower.

For a split second, I thought he was going to rev the engine and leave.

But he didn't.

He watched me without blinking, the wind gently brushing the hair over his forehead. In that moment, his eyes looked exactly as they had when he was eighteen.

Furious, struggling. Unwilling to forgive himself, yet wanting to hide away.

Gavin: Then you become stronger.

Gavin: Strong enough to have the courage to make a choice. Any choice.

Youran: Is that courage... really just because they "became strong"?

I couldn't find a more precise way to put it. But I felt that beyond just "strength," there should be something else more important supporting those unfortunate children.

Like a promise filled with resolve, a bit of warm companionship, a figure to look up to, or a fleeting moment full of love.

Gavin didn't answer. A flash of doubt seemed to flicker in his eyes at my question, and his grip on the handlebar tightened further.

Youran: In your eyes..... do you think Zhao Yang made a choice?

Gavin: The investigation is still ongoing. I will find the answer.

What about you?

I bit my lip, leaving the question unasked.

He lowered his eyes and moved to pull his helmet on.

Youran: ………Gavin, don't you think we shouldn't judge a child so harshly?

Youran: Does one really... have to be such a strong child?

Gavin hunched his shoulders, his body going completely still.

Youran: A child shouldn't have to be the one to satisfy their parents' expectations or carry the weight of their disappointments.

Youran: I know I'm speaking in high-minded platitudes, and I can't instantly change every irresponsible parent out there.

Youran: But I'm going to keep doing this. I'll keep speaking out, saying the things I believe are right.

Youran: I want to tell every child that they aren't a mistake, they aren't a waste, and they aren't fighting alone.

Youran: I'll be angry right alongside them.

The moment the words left my mouth, darkness suddenly surged over me. A cold, hard sensation covered my vision, completely shielding his figure from my sight.

As if trying to avoid me, Gavin had once again forcefully shoved a motorcycle helmet onto my head.

Youran: ………What are you doing?

Gavin: ......

He seemed to have reacted purely on instinct, looking as though even he didn't quite understand his own behavior. It took a long while before he managed to squeeze out a few words.

Gavin: Don't look at me.

His voice sounded like a warning, yet it lacked any real conviction, stretched thin into a stiff, flat line.

Gavin: ……Whatever you choose to do is your business.

Gavin: You don't need to explain it to me.

All the clues gathered from outside the campus and the materials provided by the parents seemed to point toward the same conclusion—it appeared the high school students had indeed committed suicide.

Youran: ……So this really is just a tragedy born from family upbringing?

Thinking of the parents I had visited, I knit my brows. I directed the team at the company to organize the findings from the past few days of investigation while I hurried toward Loveland High School.

After a series of discussions and persistent persuasion, and thanks to my status as a distinguished alumna, the dean at Loveland High finally agreed to let me conduct a brief interview and investigation.

Of course, this was granted under the strict condition that I must not create any unnecessary negative publicity for the school.

I walked through the campus, my gaze resting heavily on the academic buildings.

Even if this was just an ordinary social tragedy, I wanted to see it through to the end.

Instinctively, the lonely image of Gavin’s back as he drove away three days ago flickered through my mind.

Suddenly, the moment I brushed past the security guard, a sharp wave of vertigo surged through my brain, making me knit my brows in pain.

??: Just... here... I... didn't...

??: Received... lock appearing...

??: Key... locked...

I heard a cacophony of voices flowing over strange, blurry images. Chaotic fragments of speech rose and fell one after another, yet they were laced with a hint of familiarity.

What is this? Who are these people?

I gasped for air and braced myself against the trunk of a ginkgo tree, my eyes widening in sheer panic.

Until a clear, resonant voice rang out, like a golden ginkgo leaf drifting into my palm.

Gavin: You were the one who first discovered the scene, correct?

Gavin: STF. I’m here to get the details.

He stood quietly before me as the scene around us began to dissolve and melt away, fading into a carpet of fallen leaves on the ground.

The view shifted back to the peaceful campus, as if everything I had just witnessed was nothing more than an illusory dream.

No... that’s not right.

I suddenly remembered that a similar situation had occurred back at Zhao Yang's house.

Youran: Could it be...

An incredible thought flashed through my mind. I fought to remain calm, forcing myself to recall those fractured, ethereal fragments.

Suddenly realizing something, I turned and ran toward the figure of the security guard not far away.

Security Guard: Are you finished with your investigation?

The only familiar voice from those fragments spoke, providing a sort of confirmation for my theory.

There was only one step left until I could be certain.

Youran: Not yet. I’m just waiting for the break between classes.

Youran: While I wait, I’d love to chat with you about your thoughts on the school. After all, in your position, you’re essentially the guardian of Loveland High.

Security Guard: Hah, guardian? It’s just a job.

The man waved his hand dismissively, though he couldn't hide the flicker of pride on his face from the compliment.

Youran: Speaking of which, do you know anything else about the children who passed away?

Security Guard: You shouldn't ask about that. I promised that police officer I wouldn't go around leaking information about the case.

Security Guard: He said he’d arrest me for some kind of information crime if I did!

Youran: Of course, of course. I wouldn't want to cause you any trouble. Let's just talk about Loveland High then.

I proceeded to ask him a few casual questions about the current state of the school.

As we wrapped up our conversation, I enthusiastically shook his hand, my instincts driving my power forward.

—Just as I suspected, I saw the man's memories.

My memory Evol has returned to my body.

I was stunned for a moment. Ever since my ability was taken by Cyril at the Hotel of Hopes, I never imagined it would be possible to possess it again.

Is this an effect of the changes I’ve brought to the world?

Too many questions flooded my mind, but now wasn't the time to ponder them.

I immediately pulled my wandering thoughts back and focused on the guard's memory.

The power I hadn't used in so long felt surprisingly natural. Soon, I found exactly what I was looking for.

Gavin: You were the one who first discovered the scene, correct?

Gavin: STF. I’m here to get the details.

He stood before me once again, just as he had in the fragments, his amber eyes filled with a cold, piercing scrutiny.

Security Guard: Ah, yes, that’s right, Officer.

Gavin: Tell me what happened on the 18th.

Security Guard: Uh... I-I found them at five in the morning while I was patrolling the playground...

Security Guard: I was terrified. I didn't dare look too closely, so I just called the police right away.

Gavin: You were also on patrol on the night of the 17th, right?

Security Guard: Yes. Classes end at eight, and by eight-thirty, most of the students are gone.

Security Guard: We start a final sweep around 8:50 to make sure no one is lingering on campus overnight.

Security Guard: I remember it clearly. I was responsible for the east side.

Security Guard: I have an alarm on my phone that goes off at nine every night. I was passing the small basketball court on the east side when the alarm went off, which brought me right to the spot where they fell.

Security Guard: That whole area was a wide-open space back then. Forget a body—there wasn't a single person in sight.

Gavin: How many minutes did it take you to walk through that area?

Security Guard: ……No more than five minutes at most. I didn't hear a thing.

Gavin: Do you have the keys to the rooftop?

Security Guard: Yes. There are only two keys to the roof—one for loaning out and one spare. Both stay in the security office.

Gavin: According to the surveillance footage provided, a student's hand appeared around the corner at 9:03 PM on the 17th.

Security Guard: That’s impossible! I told them that during my statement! I was right there at nine o’clock. There was no one!

Security Guard: Four people jumping... I’m not deaf! There’s no way I wouldn't hear that! And there was so much blood!

Security Guard: I even underwent one of those brain scans, and the results were fine!

Gavin simply gave him a faint, scrutinizing look. Tang Chao, standing by his side, gave a slight nod.

Security Guard: But since the STF is involved, it must be because of Evols, right? Are those little monsters the ones causing trouble?

Gavin: Thank you for your cooperation.

Gavin: If we need anything further, we’ll be in touch.

Gavin: Due to the confidential nature of this investigation, you are not to disclose anything from today or your previous statements to anyone else.

He turned away as decisively as a sharp gust of wind. However, I caught the instinctive furrow of his brow—his deep amber eyes looked as though a storm was brewing within them.

I watched his departing figure within the memory and then proceeded to double-check the guard's memories from that night once more.

The alarm clock going off like clockwork, the deserted corner—everything was exactly as he had described.

The image of them lying in a pool of blood was so vivid it only took a split second to leave a lasting impression. I couldn't bear to look, yet within that chaotic vision, I noticed a subtle sense of distortion.

It was as if a flicker of transparent flame had swept through, giving the edges of the walls a terrifying, fluid quality.

But that moment was too brief. No matter how many times I re-examined it, the only result was my growing confusion.

Everything about this pointed toward something strange and contradictory, yet there were truly no traces of this man's memory being altered.

If all of this actually happened, could it be related to an Evol?

I quietly withdrew from the security guard's memory and offered my thanks. Just then, the bell for the lunch break rang out.

Watching the academic building gradually come to life, I thought back to the expression I had just seen on Gavin’s face in that memory.

Gavin... aside from this suicide case... is there another reason you're looking so desperate?

Student A: Wang Xiangyu? I’m not close with him. He didn’t really like talking to anyone anyway.

Student B: He was fine before, right? But since sometime last semester, I don’t know what happened, he’d just blow up over the smallest things. It felt like he thought the whole world was out to get him.

Student A: Paranoid delusions, probably. He thought everyone was obsessed with him, but honestly, nobody gave a damn.

Student C: Zhao Yang? Yeah, he was my seatmate. He was just... normal? He went to class and studied like everyone else.

Student C: Sure, I guess we were friends. But we’re not little kids anymore—do we really need to ask each other "how are you feeling today" every single morning? He seemed fine before.

Student D: I really never expected Zou Chunying to be the type to jump. She looked so small and her voice was always so quiet. She was actually pretty brave.

Student E: Hey, miss, so was Tian Jing really a suicide? Do you have any inside info? Let me have something to brag about to my classmates. Things have been so boring lately.

Student F: I didn't know them. Besides, there are too many people on Earth anyway; the planet is practically bursting. It doesn't really matter if a few people die, especially if they did it on purpose.

Student G: Speaking of which, Wan You from our class hasn't shown up for a few days. He isn't trying to follow the trend, is he?

Dean: These children were all just ordinary students. Their grades were mostly middle-of-the-pack for their respective classes, and none of them really stood out.

Dean: I have no idea why they’d suddenly pull a stunt like this. It’s caused nothing but trouble for everyone. They were so thoughtless.

Youran: .....

A cacophony of voices flowed past me like a rushing stream.

The waves crashed against black jagged rocks, kicking up a spray of white foam that splattered against me, leaving behind a lingering chill.

A sense of profound coldness and detachment was spreading like a contagion, leaving the eyes of every child looking utterly hollow.

I stopped in my tracks instinctively as I passed Class 3-7.

Gazing at that seat by the window, I held my breath softly.

This place felt like the Loveland High from my memories, yet it seemed so foreign at the same time—

Just like this world, and just like Gavin.

I wondered if the rebellious boy who once sat there had ever felt as full of doubt and confusion as I did now.

When the world casts its fences of isolation, could I remain as unwavering as the boy you used to be?

But the wind was gentle, and there was no cold, distant boy at that quiet desk to turn his head and give me an answer.

Suddenly, I felt a gaze land on me.

My heart tightened, and I spun around on instinct, but there were only students coming and going—no one in particular stood out.

Youran: ………Stop overthinking it.

I let out a sigh, taking one last look at Gavin’s old seat before turning to head downstairs.

...

As I passed the small basketball court, a patch of open ground came into view.

The shaded area felt somewhat chilly in this season. The ground was spotless, with stray ginkgo leaves drifting down in silence.

I examined the edges of the walls again, but I couldn't find that subtle sense of distortion from the security guard's memory.

It was as if nothing had ever happened. The world was profoundly quiet, one cloud melting into another.

I sighed with a sense of helplessness and looked up.

A sharp, piercing gaze—one that had no time to look away—collided with mine at that very moment—

Gavin was standing at the very edge of the rooftop, looking down at me.

My mind went blank for a second. By the time I came to my senses, I realized I had already poured every ounce of my strength into shoving open the rooftop door.

The clear sky looked like a sheet of colored glass, glowing with a distant, brilliant light. The autumn sun hung low in the west, casting a shadow from Gavin that was neither too long nor too short.

In contrast to my heavy, ragged breathing, he didn't even turn around. He seemed lost in thought, perhaps imagining the children who had met their ends here.

Youran: You……

Gavin: What are you afraid of?

Noticing my panic, he spoke casually while taking a step out into thin air—

Gavin didn't fall, of course. He simply remained suspended in the sky.

The wind caught his clothes, tracing a silhouette that looked like a desperate gamble.

He looked like a fifth child hanging in the air.

I stared at his figure, looking again and again, before finally stepping forward to meet his gaze as he turned his head.

Youran: Are you okay?

Gavin: .....

His brow furrowed, and in the next second, he stepped onto the iron railing of the rooftop, blocking out most of the autumn sun.

Gavin: Don't worry. I've fallen from here before.

Gavin: I won't fall again.

The youth half-crouching on the railing looked down at me coldly. His face was hidden in the shadows, but his eyes were strikingly bright.

For a moment, it was impossible to tell if he was just being stubborn or making a declaration.

Looking at him like this, I could only murmur.

Youran: Why did you fall from here?

Gavin: There's nothing to say about the past.

Youran: ……But I want to know.

Gavin: I don't need your sympathy.

He stood up straight, just as he had many years ago, his face masked in a distant, rebellious indifference that kept everyone at arm's length.

Those eyes that were once filled with joy were too beautiful, too bright—so much so that they made me forget how he had armed himself, step by step, to fight against the world.

He was so strong, so free-spirited, that I almost forgot whether there were too many unresolved knots in his heart and a soul that had once been covered in scars.

Looking at that defiant face, I realized I had never seen his stubborn, dangerous eyes as clearly as I did in this moment.

An intense wave of emotion surged within me, and I felt my eyes begin to sting. I simply bit my lip, grabbed the iron railing, and began to climb up.

Gavin: .....What are you doing?!

I ignored him, climbing toward the top of the railing step by step, trembling as I tried to stand up.

The iron bar was so thin that it vibrated slightly with every gentle gust of wind.

I didn't know what kind of mindset those children had when they climbed up here, nor did I know how Gavin—who had just mentioned falling—felt when he stepped onto the edge of this roof.

A massive wave of vertigo gnawed at my heart, and I felt my entire body shaking, only to have my palm gripped tightly by him in the next instant.

Gavin: What are you try—

Youran: Now we're in the same place, Gavin.

He seemed to stop breathing instantly.

Youran: It's so high up here… I'm already terrified. Those children, and… you, must have been so scared, right?

Gavin: I was in a fight. It's not the same as them.

Youran: Pushing someone down during a fight is even worse.

I looked at him, only to see him avert his eyes uncomfortably.

Youran: Were you hurt back then?

He seemed to stiffen. His fingertips tightened around mine instinctively, as if he were holding onto something vital.

Gavin: No.

Gavin: I....

Gavin: I got lucky.

Youran: ....That’s a relief.

The heart I had been holding in my throat finally settled, and I squeezed his hand back firmly.

Youran: I wasn't trying to pity you........ I just want to understand you. I want to know more about you. I want to stand by your side.

Youran: Thank you for telling me, Gavin.

Gavin: You'd be too noisy if I didn't.

I couldn't help but snicker. He looked rare and flustered as he pulled me along and jumped back down onto the platform.

Youran: Do you think someone is really trying to harm those children?

Gavin: Based on your company's reports, you should know perfectly well that this was an ordinary suicide case.

Youran: So you actually read our reports! I heard our click-through rate hasn't been great lately.

Gavin: ......

He went dead silent, his face darkening slightly, which only made my smile grow wider.

Youran: According to my current investigation, that's how it looks, but that's only part of it.

Youran: I found something else very strange today, and at the same time, I saw you here.

Gavin: What does that have to do with me?

Youran: If this really were just a suicide case, you wouldn't have been investigating it for this long.

Youran: You doubt it. And I... I trust your intuition.

He froze, his eyes blinking before he instinctively looked away again.

Gavin: Whatever.

But soon, Gavin turned and started walking away, acting as if he were heading for the rooftop door.

Indifference and distance became the wind that wrapped around him once more, making my heart ache with bitterness. My eyes burned, but I could only force a wry smile.

Youran: Ever since I came back, you always seem to want to leave the moment you see me.

Gavin: I do not.

He denied it almost the exact same second.

The reply came so fast it seemed to startle even him.

In the end, Gavin just planted his feet firmly. As if giving up, he swung the door shut, then marched back in his combat boots, grabbed my wrist, and sat me down with him on the steps.

Gavin: I was just closing the door.

His tone was a bit gruff and his body was stiff. He kept his face turned away, making it impossible to read his expression.

Everything became very quiet. Even the wind died down.

Gavin seemed tense and restless, leaving me unsure of what to say for a moment.

Gavin: I just don't know...

Gavin: How I'm supposed to be by your side.

I don't know what the distance between our fingers should be, or how long my gaze is allowed to linger on you.

I don't know what pace I should use to walk toward you, or the right tone to use when I speak. I don't know how to catch your tears or how to treasure your smiles.

I don't know why the version of me in my memories could hold your hand and look into your eyes so naturally, beyond just the duty of protecting you.

I don't know if I can still walk toward you with confidence, now that I've forgotten how we used to be together.

I don't know why I’m still standing here when there are clearly more important things to attend to.

I don't know the reason why I absolutely have to stay by your side.

Too many unspeakable questions flood my mind, and ever since you reappeared, everything has become even more frustrating and contradictory.

I like you.

But those three simple words aren't enough to encompass all of my hesitation and distress.

Youran: Gavin... how do you view everything that happened between us in the past?

Gavin: I believe I fulfilled my promise and protected you as I should have.

Gavin: But that was my sanctuary.

Like a brilliant summer break, a bright full moon, or a gentle, fleeting breeze.

She would comfort him, light his way... and pass him by. The one who was drifting and cowardly was him.

Youran: .....Do you feel like you were the one being protected?

Gavin: It’s that I wasn't strong enough.

In his memories, he was too passive, too hesitant, too weak—too desperate to stay reflected in her beautiful eyes.

Gavin: My summer break has to end.

He should be returning to the heart of the storm.

Yet, why did simply saying it out loud make his irritation flare up even more?

Gavin: .....But I'll find the answer.

I saw him resting one hand on the back of his neck, head tilted slightly back.

His expression was troubled yet sincere, and even the line of his jaw looked perfect in the light.

I gave a soft laugh.

Even though something had clearly happened, I knew that Gavin was still himself at his core.

Youran: Is there a certain way you’d prefer me to act around you?

Gavin: You just need to be yourself.

Youran: I feel the same way.

Youran: Gavin, for me, I want you to be yourself, too. You don't need to become anything... or anyone we expect you to be.

Youran: I once read something in a book about how summer vacation is a luxury of time, belonging only to boys who stare at the clouds and dream.

I stood up and faced him.

Youran: You already have a place you need to go and things you need to do, don't you?

Gavin: I’m not eighteen anymore.

Youran: Neither am I. At sixteen, I wouldn't have dared to stand in front of you like this.

I looked at him with a smile and raised my hand, pointing at him as if issuing a challenge.

Youran: I'm not your summer break.

Youran: I'm the person who will search for answers and stir up the storm right alongside you.

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Chapter 1-15

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Kagetoki: Being a bushi......

Kagetoki: To put it simply, it is the worst possible profession.

Yoshino: Huh?

Kagetoki: And to put war into words—it is the absolute pits.

(That’s barely any different!)

Kagetoki: Risking one's life for the sake of a conviction is nothing short of madness. It’s completely irrational.

I stood there speechless, stunned by how boldly he made such an unexpected claim.

Yoshino: Irrational? But you're Yoritomo-sama's right-hand man...... is it really okay to have that kind of attitude......?

Kagetoki: Compared to the final result, one's attitude is a trivial matter.

Kagetoki: To me, being a bushi is merely a job. My relationship with the Shogunate is strictly professional.

Yoshino: Well, in a way, that does sound like you, Kagetoki-san. It makes sense.

Kagetoki: I'm glad to hear it. It is often said that living true to oneself is the best way to be, after all.

(I feel like you'd need some kind of inner fire to fight in a war, but I guess it’s different for Kagetoki-san.)

Kagetoki: An organization lasts longer when it harbors a few outliers.

Kagetoki: There is no need for you to force yourself to share the same perspective as the other bushi.

(Is that how it works?)

Though my doubts hadn't entirely vanished after his flat declaration, I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.

Kagetoki: Of course, you don't need to share my perspective either.

Kagetoki: Just as you and I differed in how we handled a child crying over their murdered parent......

Kagetoki: You must find the perspective that only you, as Yoshino the apothecary and the fox-possessed, can possess.

Yoshino: A perspective only I can possess......

Kagetoki: For someone like you, who has tried to discern the truth for yourself since the moment you arrived at the palace, it shouldn't be all that difficult.

A man as strict as Kagetoki-san would never offer empty encouragement or careless deceptions.

Because I knew that, his words sank straight into my heart.

Yoshino: —Yes! Thank you so much, Kagetoki-san.

Kagetoki: You certainly are quick to smile.

Amidst the wind, Kagetoki-san narrowed his eyes with a soft, slightly exasperated look.

(It’s not fair for Kagetoki-san to suddenly smile like that.)

Just as I was wondering how to respond, I saw one of Kagetoki-san's subordinates walking toward us.

Bushi 1: Kagetoki-sama, do you have a moment? I'd like to consult you regarding our route.

Kagetoki: Very well.

Yoshino: Then I'll just take a walk around here.

Kagetoki: Fine. Just don't wander too far.

I gave a small bow to Kagetoki-san's subordinate and stepped away.

I took a drink of the lake's clear water and was enjoying a light stroll when......

(Hm? That man......)

I spotted an elderly bushi sitting by the base of a tree, rubbing his lower back.

Yoshino: Um, excuse me. Does your back hurt?

Elderly Retainer: Eh? Ah, yes. Traveling by horseback for so long is taking a toll on these old bones. It’s a pitiful thing.

Yoshino: That sounds painful. If you'd like, would you let me take a look? I'm an apothecary.

Elderly Retainer: Oh! Really? That would be a great help.

(I’m glad I brought some medicine with me just in case.)

After asking a few questions, I applied a light moxibustion treatment using loquat leaves to soothe the pain.

As he lay face down, the elderly retainer's expression relaxed into a smile.

Matsue: Thanks to you, I feel much better. My name is Matsue.

Yoshino: It’s nice to meet you! I’m—

Matsue: You're Yoshino-san. I’ve heard many rumors about you.

Yoshino: A-are there bad rumors going around?

Matsue: No, no. I’ve been curious about you for a while, having heard there was a woman who could assist with Kagetoki-sama's work without being reduced to tears.

I couldn't help but laugh at his playful tone.

Yoshino: I’ve come close to crying plenty of times, though.

Matsue: Haha, I don't doubt it. Kagetoki-sama is quite merciless, after all.

(The way Matsue-san talks about him isn't like the others—he doesn't seem to be avoiding Kagetoki-san out of fear.)

Yoshino: Matsue-san, have you known Kagetoki-san for a long time?

Matsue: I have served the Kajiwara family since he was a young child.

Yoshino: Since he was that small......! What was Kagetoki-san like back then?

I leaned in, unable to hide my curiosity.

(I really can't imagine Kagetoki-san as an innocent child at all.)

Matsue: Let me see......

Matsue-san placed a hand on his chin, lost in thought, before finally speaking.

Matsue: He was never an ordinary child from the very beginning.

Yoshino: Huh?

Matsue: Despite being born into a military family, Kagetoki-sama was an eccentric who did nothing but read books.

Matsue: He was a child prodigy who memorized everything he saw, read, or heard—a genius whose thinking surpassed even the adults around him.

Matsue: Naturally, he couldn't fit in with the other children. He was especially shunned by the sons of other bushi.

Yoshino: He was that smart even as a child......

Matsue: Yes. To the point where those around him were actually terrified.

With that, Matsue-san shared a memory from a certain day.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Do you understand why you’ve been summoned here, Kagetoki?

Kagetoki: I have a few theories.

The young Kagetoki, standing before his grandfather, answered in a composed, adult tone without a hint of hesitation.

Matsue: .......

Matsue, who had been ordered to attend as his caretaker, watched the situation unfold with bated breath.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: I heard that yesterday, the two children who were particularly cruel to you had a massive brawl on the mountain behind the village.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Apparently, the fight was so violent that one of them nearly fell off a cliff.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Even the adults are scratching their heads, wondering how two childhood friends who were practically brothers could turn on each other so suddenly.

Kagetoki: Is it not because their bond was so deep that once the seeds of hatred were sown, they were able to bear fruit all the more quickly?

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: ........

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: I hear the other children are acting strange as well. They’ve stopped inviting one another to play, and they’ve grown lax in their martial arts training......

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: It’s as if they are constantly anxious, or perhaps... terrified of something they can't even name.

Kagetoki: Is that so? How unfortunate for them.

The grandfather closed his eyes before the boy who spoke with such utter indifference, then continued as if bracing himself.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: —Kagetoki. Was this all your doing?

Kagetoki: Yes. That is correct.

Matsue: How could this be......

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: ......Tell me. What on earth did you do to them?

Kagetoki: It was nothing significant. First, I spread false rumors to drive a wedge between them......

Kagetoki: Once they split into factions exactly as I intended, I approached each group and whispered sweet deceptions into their ears.

Kagetoki: By repeating this cycle of manipulation and betrayal, the children eventually became consumed by paranoia......

Kagetoki: The two with the shortest tempers simply ended up destroying each other.

Neither the grandfather nor Matsue could immediately process the explanation given so nonchalantly.

Matsue: You’re saying you gained complete control over their hearts and manipulated them like pawns......?

Kagetoki: I imagine I’ll be able to do it even more efficiently next time. Though, I hope the occasion does not arise.

Groaning, the grandfather pressed a hand to his temple.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Kagetoki. Is this revenge? If it is, you should have consulted me sooner. No......

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: It is my responsibility for failing to realize you had been pushed so far.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Because you always kept such a calm face, I dismissed it as nothing more than childish teasing and left you to deal with it alone.

Kagetoki: ......

After tilting his head slightly, Kagetoki murmured.

Kagetoki: No, this was not revenge.

Kagetoki: I didn't care if they insulted me or hid my belongings.

Kagetoki: Even the occasional bit of violence...... well, I didn't think it was worth making a fuss over.

Matsue: Then, why......?

Kagetoki: A month ago, they tore the book I was reading. It is quite inconvenient to be unable to read the ending.

Before the two stunned adults, Kagetoki’s eyes—which still held a lingering trace of childhood innocence—shone with a cold, deep light.

Kagetoki: —I simply wanted to read in peace. So, I devised a plan to make that a reality. That is all.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: That is all, is it? You......

Kagetoki: Have I done something wrong? Grandfather.

..

Yoshino: To think something like that happened......

Matsue-san let out a long sigh as he finished his story.

Matsue: That was the first and only time I have ever felt true terror toward a child of such a tender age.

(I can see why. That goes way beyond the scope of a typical childhood spat.)

(If it had been done in the heat of the moment, it would be one thing, but Kagetoki-san was calm and meticulous.)

Yoshino: What happened after that......?

Matsue: Since he hadn't technically laid a hand on anyone himself, Kagetoki-sama’s actions were never made public.

Matsue: Though his grandfather scolded him, he seemed at a loss for how to properly teach him the error of his ways......

Matsue: After a while, he bought him a koto.

Yoshino: A koto?

The image of Kagetoki-san plucking at the strings of a koto—an instrument he was by no means skilled at—came to mind.

Matsue: His grandfather told me then:

Matsue: "That boy’s intellect is extraordinary. In the future, he will either become a genius who brings revolution to the world......"

Matsue: "Or he will become a great villain feared by all."

Yoshino: A genius, or a great villain......

Matsue: Yes. To prevent the latter, he wanted him to touch the sounds of music—an area where he lacked talent—as a way to humble himself and learn restraint.

Yoshino: ......So that's why Kagetoki-san makes playing the koto a part of his daily routine.

Matsue-san nodded at my wide-eyed realization.

Matsue: I cannot say for sure how much his grandfather’s concerns influenced him......

Matsue: But for Kagetoki-sama, a man who never does anything without a purpose, the fact that he still continues his koto practice to this day... I believe that is your answer.

(I used to wonder why he bothered playing the koto when he never seemed to get any better at it......)

Yoshino: Matsue-san, thank you for sharing this with me.

Matsue: Not at all. It puts my mind at ease to know that a kind woman like you is by Kagetoki-sama’s side.

In Matsue-san’s warm, narrowed eyes, perhaps he could still see the young Kagetoki from all those years ago.

(This man watched Kagetoki-san grow up, even while finding him frightening.)

Yoshino: Matsue-san, what do you think of Kagetoki-san now?

Matsue: Kagetoki-sama is not a man who seeks the understanding of others. His thoughts are far beyond the reach of an ordinary man like myself, but......

Matsue: I firmly believe he has become a genius. Kagetoki-sama is a man who will undoubtedly leave his mark on this world.

Yoshino: ......I believe so, too.

(And if possible, I’d like to stay by his side to see it happen.)

Seeing me nod softly, Matsue-san wore a look of quiet satisfaction.

...

That night...... we finally arrived in Kyoto.

Kagetoki: We will use this inn as our base and begin a full investigation into the movements of the court nobles starting tomorrow.

Yoshino: Right! And while everyone else is out investigating, Kagetoki-san and I are supposed to head to the Imperial Court to pay our respects first, correct?

I had been summoned to Kagetoki-san's room to discuss our plans for the following day.

(The Imperial Court...... That’s a place I never would have stepped foot in my entire life if I were living a normal existence.)

Without realizing it, my tension began to mount, and I clenched my fingers tight.

Yoshino: I have to make sure I behave properly tomorrow. Oh, but... what does behaving properly even look like there?

(I don't know the first thing about how to act in such a noble place. What if I end up embarrassing Kagetoki-san?)

Kagetoki: Just act as you normally do. It’s not as if anyone is expecting any special tricks from you.

Yoshino: ......Are you treating me like a dog again?

I gave him a playful glare before letting out a small sigh.

Yoshino: Besides, acting normal is the hard part. When I'm nervous, I feel like I'm bound to do something strange.

Kagetoki: Oh? In that case, perhaps I should teach you a few tricks after all.

(Eh?)

While still seated, he suddenly closed the distance between us, his handsome features drawing closer.

Yoshino: Kagetoki-san......?

Kagetoki-san placed his palm against my back as I tried to shift away, and for a moment, my breath hitched in my throat.

Kagetoki: Straighten your posture. People are foolish creatures; they prey on anyone who appears weak-willed.

Kagetoki: You are the trump card of the Shogunate. You may act as boldly as you please. You have my permission.

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Chapter 9

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Mitsuki: I...... I'm returning to my world on the night of the next full moon.

I made my confession to Drake on a night just a few days before the full moon was set to arrive.

Sitting across from me with a wine glass in hand, he widened his eyes in surprise.

Seeing that reaction made me feel a tiny spark of hope, but......

Drake: .......I see. That's good news then.

He immediately offered a smile and raised his glass toward me.

Drake: A toast to your smooth voyage. It’s a good thing, having a place to return to.

Mitsuki: Yeah...... I guess so.

I offered a stiff smile of my own and clinked my glass against his.

Drake: Since we’re talking about traveling across space and time, I don’t expect we’ll be seeing each other again. Take care of yourself.

Mitsuki: Yeah...... You too, Drake.

(Even though you called me your woman of destiny...... you're so casual about us saying goodbye.)

I drained my wine, the taste matching the bittersweet ache in my heart.

(In the end, I never even told him...... that I love him.)

Mitsuki: I just came by to tell you that tonight. I should probably get back to the mansion now.

I started to stand up, not wanting him to see the lingering regret on my face, when he suddenly grabbed my arm.

Drake: .......Don't go.

My heart leaped into my throat as I looked down at him.

(Could it be that Drake actually......?)

But before my hope could take shape, he let go of my hand as if it were nothing.

Drake: Sailors have a ceremony to celebrate when a comrade sets sail.

Drake: On the day of departure, we toast to the rising sun and drain our drinks in one go.

Drake: I'll give you a special send-off with that ritual, so come down to the Seine on the morning you're set to leave.

I pushed down the ache in my chest and forced a smile.

Mitsuki: Thank you, Drake. ......It'll be a wonderful memory.

(This is for the best. I’ll leave these unrequited feelings behind in this era.)

—

On the day Mitsuki was to return, Drake stood by the banks of the Seine, looking up at the sun as it climbed higher into the sky.

Drake: .......She’s not here.

Drake: Mitsuki isn't the type to break a promise. ......Did something happen?

Drake leaped from the boat and broke into a run toward the mansion.

...

—Awareness slowly drifted back to me, and I opened my eyes.

(......I feel like I’ve been asleep for a very long time.)

As my hazy gaze wandered, my eyes met with those of a strange man standing beside the bed.

???: Mitsuki! You're finally awake......

(Who is this person? How does he know my name......?)

???: How are you feeling? You've been asleep for a full day and night.

Mitsuki: G-gah...... Then, what about the door......?

???: Unfortunately, it already closed.

???: Well, it should open again in another month. Just take it easy until then.

(I can't believe it...... I thought I was finally going home, but now I have to wait another month.)

As I hung my head and looked down, the man peered at me with a worried expression.

???: What's wrong? Are you really feeling sick somewhere?

(He’s been acting strangely familiar this whole time, but......)

Mitsuki: Um...... who are you?

???: What kind of joke is that? I’m not even mad at you for breaking our promise.

Mitsuki: Drake...... Is that your name? And what promise......?

Drake: .......Look, little fawn. That’s enough of that—

Mitsuki: Little fawn...... Are you talking to me? Even if you tell me that’s enough......

Faced with a string of things I didn't understand, I tilted my head in total confusion, and the man—Drake—looked at me with a serious gaze.

Drake: Are you serious? You don't mean...... you've got amnesia?

Drake: Wait here. I’m going to go get someone.

After that, I spoke with everyone from the mansion who had rushed to my side, and it became clear that my memory loss was specific.

There was only one person missing from my memories—everything regarding Drake.

Drake: What...... So you're saying you've completely forgotten about me and only me?

Mitsuki: ......I'm so sorry.

Drake: ......Well, it can't be helped if it's gone. Sorry for bothering you, little fawn.

As he gave a wave and turned his back to me, a sudden, sharp ache throbbed in my chest.

(I don't remember a single thing about Drake...... and yet.)

Watching him leave the room, a surge of emotion I couldn't explain welled up inside of me.

...

Even as night fell, I couldn't stop thinking about him.

(Drake...... He’s apparently a pirate, but I wonder what kind of person he is?)

(And why is it that he's the only one I’ve forgotten......?)

I paced around the room searching for clues, and when I pulled open my desk drawer—

(Why do I have something like this......?)

It was a pistol, decorated with beautiful engravings.

Drake: —I’m the one who gave that to you.

Along with a sudden gust of night wind, I heard a voice.

I turned around and instinctively caught my breath.

Mitsuki: D-Drake......? Why are you...... ah!

Before I knew what was happening, he grabbed my arm and pulled me into his embrace.

Drake: I’m not one for giving up, Mitsuki.

Drake: I’ve come to take you back.

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Part 2

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As evening approached, a ceasefire was declared and both armies withdrew their ships.

Kicho: Mai fell into the sea?

Motonari: To be precise, she threw herself in. All while still wearing those shackles.

Kicho: ......I find it hard to believe she could still be alive, then.

Just as Kicho turned a listless gaze toward the ocean—

Mitsunari: Are those words you just spoke the truth?

Mitsunari, who had concealed his presence, stood in the distance.

Motonari clicked his tongue at the sight of Mitsunari’s deathly pale face.

Motonari: ......So you were listening, then.

Mitsunari: Tell me. The location where she fell and the time.

Kicho: Surely you don't intend to search for her?

Mitsunari: Yes, of course. She is strong. I am certain she has found a way to survive.

His voice was dry, and his purple eyes were unusually stern.

Motonari: ......And if I say I'm not tellin' you? What then?

Mitsunari: I will sink your ships. One, then another...... until you speak.

Mitsunari: The preparations are already complete. Would you be so kind as to tell me before I signal the subordinates I have placed in hiding?

Motonari, Kicho: .........

Afterward—

Mitsunari calculated the position of the ship he had been told and the direction of the tide, searching the coastline where there was a high probability she might have washed ashore.

He galloped along the sand, searching for any sign of Mai.

As the beach grew dark, it seemed like an utterly reckless endeavor.

Mitsunari: My calculations are correct. She must have washed ashore here.

Mitsunari: If only she hadn't been shackled......

Motonari had given Mitsunari detailed information, including the point of impact, the time, the ocean currents, and even the wind direction.

Whether those details were the truth or not remained to be seen.

His opponent was a man who bore the title of a god.

As the situation grew increasingly desperate, a single shadow appeared amidst the waves.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama......?

He dismounted and waded into the sea, sending sprays of water into the air.

Soaked to the bone, he finally reached her. Mai was clinging to a piece of wreckage from a broken ship.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama!

Though he pulled her into his arms, Mai wasn't breathing, and her heart had stopped.

Mitsunari: Not yet...... Don't give up......

He brought her back to the beach, laid her down, and placed his hands on Mai’s chest.

Mitsunari: Overlap my hands, and press down firmly with the base of my palms.

Mitsunari: Repeat this patiently until her breathing returns......

He repeated the compressions and the rescue breaths exactly as Mai had taught him.

Her lips against his were as cold as ice.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama...... Mai-sama......

Just as he was desperately praying, continuing without surrender even as sweat poured down his face,

Mai: Ngh...... cough......

Mai coughed painfully, spitting up water.

...

(What...... happened to me?)

When I lifted my head, the orange sky stretched out across my vision, and beside me was......

Mai: Mitsunari-kun......?

Mitsunari: Mai-sama......

Mai: I finally found you...... Thank goodness.

(You have no idea how much I wanted to see your face......)

Mitsunari: Do you truly still feel that way?

Body trembling, Mitsunari-kun pulled me into a fierce embrace.

His warmth seeped into me, wrapping me in comfort.

(That's right...... I jumped into the sea on my own, and I survived......)

The hazy edges of my consciousness gradually began to sharpen.

I remembered clinging to a piece of wreckage as I sank beneath the waves.

Mai: You’re the one who found me, Mitsunari-kun.

Mitsunari: I thought...... it was too late......

The voice whispered against my ear was more fragile and strained than any I had ever heard from him.

Rather than relief at my own survival, my heart ached to see the person I loved in such pain.

(Mitsunari-kun was this terrified of losing me.)

(I would be just as terrified if I lost him. But......)

Mai: Mitsunari-kun, listen to me......

I rested my hand against Mitsunari-kun’s cheek, which was stained with seawater and sand.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama......?

Mai: I understand all too well—to the point it hurts—that you went against your own convictions for my sake...... that you betrayed the Oda forces and chose this dark path.

Mai: But I can’t bear to see you get hurt because of the choice you made.

Mai: Having your soul sink into the darkness is...... far more terrifying to me than death.

Mitsunari: ......

(This man has always walked the path of light and righteousness until now.)

Mai: Mitsunari-kun, you remember the townspeople who betrayed the villagers, don't you?

Mai: Even when you were devastated by human malice, you still believed in the goodness of people.

Mai: That’s why you showed those townspeople a path of atonement by having them dedicate themselves to the village’s reconstruction, right?

Mai: That was an act of kindness and strength. That’s the Mitsunari-kun I fell in love with.

Mitsunari: ......!

His violet eyes wavered, looking as if his heart had been pierced.

Mai: Please. Return to the Oda army.

Mai: I want you to fight alongside everyone else against Kicho and Motonari’s forces.

Mitsunari: ......The path of crushing Kicho-dono and Motonari-dono’s plans, stopping the destruction of the future, and curing your condition.

Mitsunari: But that is a battle where not a single failure can be permitted.

Mitsunari: Whether we stop the destruction five hundred years from now first, or whether your life reaches its limit first......

Mitsunari: If we make even one mistake, there is no telling what will happen.

(I understand that this is a high-risk choice.)

I tucked my chin and stared intently into Mitsunari-kun’s eyes.

Mai: Just like now, I’d be forcing you to take responsibility for my death into your own hands.

Mai: But there’s one thing that’s different this time.

Mitsunari: Eh......?

Mai: —This time, Mitsunari-kun, you won’t be alone.

Mai: I’m certain everyone in the Oda army is waiting for your return.

Mitsunari: ......

Mitsunari: But......

(It’s only natural for him to hesitate after having betrayed them. Even so......)

I slid the fingertips that had been touching his cheek into Mitsunari-kun’s hair.

Mai: I’m sorry. It seems I’m far greedier than I thought I was.

Mai: Saving just my life isn't enough.

Mai: I want to save your pride, too. I want to protect your convictions, Mitsunari-kun.

Mai: ......Let’s go to the battle that will allow us to see the peaceful world we’re both aiming for, together.

Mitsunari: You are......

After a moment of silence, Mitsunari-kun let out a short laugh, looking as if the tension that had gripped him finally snapped.

It was a smile that looked like it was on the verge of tears.

Mitsunari: You always believe in me, don’t you?

He took my hand and pressed it gently against his own forehead.

Mitsunari: You are my light.

(Mitsunari-kun......)

My chest swelled with a warmth that felt like it would overflow.

Mitsunari: I’m sorry. Even though I knew it wasn't what you wanted, I acted on my own selfish impulses.

Mitsunari: I will apologize to Nobunaga-sama and the rest of the Oda forces, and take full responsibility for my actions.

Mai: I’ll apologize with you. And then, we’ll ask them for their help.

Mitsunari: Yes......

The darkness had vanished from Mitsunari-kun’s expression as he nodded.

(He’ll be okay now......)

Mai: Please, don’t ever disappear from my side again.

Mitsunari: Yes, I swear it.

Mitsunari: —Let us go together, to the battle we cannot afford to lose.

Mitsunari-kun’s dignified voice rang out, holding its own against the sound of the crashing waves.

...

We rode our horse through the pitch-black path after the sun had set, and finally arrived at—

Nobunaga: So you’ve returned, Mitsunari, Mai.

This was the main camp established by Nobunaga-sama, who had been out on the front lines.

Mitsunari-kun bowed his head deeply toward Nobunaga-sama, who sat upon a folding stool.

Mitsunari: I have caused you a great deal of trouble.

Mai: I’m sorry for making you worry.

(I wonder how Nobunaga-sama will judge this?)

(He’s a rational man, so surely he won't dispose of Mitsunari-kun immediately.)

Despite my thoughts, the intensity of his gaze made my anxiety flare.

Nobunaga: Mitsunari, if you wish to spout excuses, I am listening.

Mitsunari: No, my betrayal is a matter of fact. Please, do not forgive me.

Mitsunari: I will take full responsibility for what I have done.

Nobunaga: You mean to say you will accept any punishment?

Mitsunari: I have been prepared for that from the start.

Nobunaga-sama’s lips curled into a smirk at Mitsunari-kun’s calm response.

Nobunaga: I intended to cut you down where you stood had you begged for your life, but that answer is just like you.

Mai: Eh......!

Ieyasu, who was waiting nearby, turned a cold gaze toward me.

Ieyasu: Only those close to Nobunaga-sama know of Mitsunari’s betrayal.

Ieyasu: But he’s done something so reckless that he couldn't complain even if his head were taken as an example to others.

Mitsunari: You are exactly right.

Nobunaga: Your punishment is to return safely to Azuchi. You can look forward to a lecture from Hideyoshi, who is waiting for you with bated breath.

Nobunaga: His lectures are long enough to make one yawn, you know.

Mitsunari: I will take those words to heart and accept it.

(Nobunaga-sama...... He talked about cutting him down, but I feel like he had forgiven Mitsunari-kun long ago.)

Mitsunari-kun has always forgiven the mistakes of others and stood by everyone with a selfless heart.

That’s why it felt like the other warlords would be able to accept him back, too.

Ieyasu: ......

(Ugh, Ieyasu has been keeping his eyes averted from Mitsunari-kun this entire time.)

I’d already heard from Mitsunari-kun about how they had actually crossed blades on the battlefield.

Mitsunari: Ieyasu-sama, I am truly sorry.

Ieyasu: ......What’s with that look? You look like a abandoned puppy.

(He hit the nail right on the head......!)

Ieyasu narrowed his eyes as he walked over and gave Mitsunari-kun a firm thud on the chest.

Ieyasu: You went and did whatever you pleased, causing nothing but trouble. Do you have any idea how much hardship we went through?

Ieyasu: Well, I suppose thanks to that, we were able to clear the rot from within the Tokugawa.

Ieyasu: Being able to capture the vassals who were just waiting for their chance to betray us—that’s your achievement.

Ieyasu: I assume you hand-picked those specific individuals from the start, didn't you?

(Is that so......?)

Mitsunari: But that was merely a byproduct of the situation......

Ieyasu: Shut up. In any case, stop acting out a betrayal that doesn't suit you in the slightest.

Ieyasu: You realized you weren't cut out for it, didn't you? If you’re going to act, act like yourself, Mitsunari!

Once again, Ieyasu struck Mitsunari-kun’s chest.

But it didn't seem to be out of anger; it felt like a gesture of encouragement.

Mitsunari: ........! Yes, Ieyasu-sama.

(Thank goodness, Ieyasu accepted him too.)

More than anything, I couldn't help but smile at the fact that the bond between them hadn't broken.

Nobunaga: Now then...... Mitsunari. Knowing you, I assume you intended to crush Kicho and Motonari from the very beginning.

Nobunaga: Tell me the weaknesses in their army.

Mai: Eh, from the very beginning......?

As I tilted my head in confusion, Ieyasu furrowed his brows.

Ieyasu: You should be able to tell if you were listening just now. Mitsunari was truly, genuinely betraying us.

Ieyasu: He had to go that far, otherwise he never would have gained the trust of Kicho and the others.

Ieyasu: And then, as a way to atone for the crimes he committed, he intended to crush them in the end.

(So Nobunaga-sama had a faint idea of what Mitsunari-kun was thinking all along.)

(He really is a man fit to rule the world under one sword.)

Standing before Nobunaga-sama and Ieyasu, Mitsunari-kun’s violet eyes shone even more intensely.

Mitsunari: Then, I shall explain. First, Kicho-dono and Motonari-dono’s strategy relies on causing the enemy to collapse from within.

Mitsunari: First, they identify the individuals among those serving the Oda forces who are the most desperate for merit or have the strongest personal greed.

Mitsunari: Next, they drive those individuals into a chain of isolation and fear.

Apparently, Kicho and the others had been spreading secret pacts, promising that if the war situation worsened, they would guarantee lands to anyone who took Nobunaga’s head and surrendered.

When the tide of battle turned unfavorable, soldiers would watch the movements of potential traitors and fall into paranoia, believing they couldn't survive unless they betrayed the others first. This triggered a chain reaction of betrayal that led to self-destruction.

Mai: How are we supposed to counter people like that?

Mitsunari: We will take the very essence of the enemy's strategy—paranoia—and turn it against them.

Nobunaga: Ho......?

Mitsunari: We shall counter it with trust.

Mitsunari: I told them that relationships built on trust are fragile and easily broken,

Mitsunari: But in truth, they did not understand the true meaning of being bound by a thick, powerful bond of mutual trust.

Nobunaga: Nobunaga-sama narrowed his eyes for a brief moment at Mitsunari-kun’s words......

Nobunaga: Mitsunari, I leave the command of tomorrow’s battle to you. Do as you please.

His command rang out with great power.

Mitsunari-kun straightened his back.

Mitsunari: I understand.

—

Dawn broke, and the time for the decisive battle arrived.

The location shifted from the sea to the land—ironically, it was a coastal path overlooking the very village that had been brought to the brink of ruin by Motonari-san’s schemes.

Nobunaga: Before we head into battle, I have something to tell you all.

Nobunaga-sama appeared before the soldiers standing in orderly ranks, his gaze imposing.

Nobunaga: I am well aware of the fact that many of you were planning to betray the Oda. I even know exactly who you are.

Soldiers: !?

The soldiers began to exchange glances with each other, visibly shaken.

Nobunaga: However, if you distinguish yourselves in this battle, all will be pardoned. You are to fight for the sake of the Oda.

Nobunaga: Ensure you survive, and claim as many rewards as you desire through your own strength.

Soldiers: Y-Yes......!

(Incredible, the look in the soldiers' eyes has completely changed.)

Mitsunari-kun was there as well, standing by Nobunaga-sama’s side.

Mitsunari: The enemy's strategy is to take advantage of the weakness in our hearts.

Mitsunari: But I am betting on the strength of your hearts.

(If we don't defeat Kicho-san and Motonari-san, the future will be destroyed.)

(But I don't know what will happen to me once the warring era ends. Even so, Mitsunari-kun placed his bet on us.)

Receiving the reins from a vassal, Mitsunari-kun mounted his horse.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama, your hand, please.

Mai: Right!

He pulled me up, and I joined Mitsunari-kun on the horse.

Mitsunari: I shall take command. Now, we march!

As soon as the battle commenced, the combined forces of Kicho and Motonari were thrown into a total rout by the Oda army.

Mitsunari: We’re going to charge straight for the enemy's main camp. Please take care not to fall off.

Mai: I’ve got it!

Clinging to the horse I shared with Mitsunari-kun, we charged headlong through the battlefield......

Kicho: I thought the Oda forces were moving differently than yesterday, and as expected, it was you.

Motonari: Tch. You really are a troublesome man.

(Why are they here!?)

The two of them came galloping toward us from ahead, pulling up their horses just a few meters away.

Mitsunari-kun calmly brought our horse to a halt to face them.

Mitsunari: You’re abandoning your subordinates and retreating, I see.

Kicho: The outcome of this battle has been decided. Looking at the state of the front lines, I’m sure even you understand that an immediate withdrawal is the correct choice.

(A strategic retreat? Even so, to just leave their men behind like that......)

Motonari: Yo, Princess. Looks like you’re still kicking.

Motonari-san laughed, narrowing his crimson eyes at me. I braced myself and stared him down.

Mai: Yes. I told you I’d find my way back to Mitsunari-kun, didn’t I?

Motonari: No one actually thought you’d pull it off.

(That's not true......)

Mai: Mitsunari-kun believed in me. He believed in me, searched for me, and saved me.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama......

Motonari: ......Heh.

Motonari-san’s expression turned serious as he toyed with his earring.

Motonari: I didn't realize what a fine woman you were. Maybe I should've grabbed that arm of yours when you jumped off the ship.

Just as I felt his gaze waver ever so slightly,

Mitsunari: Have you forgotten what I told you before, Motonari-dono?

(Eh......!)

From behind me, Mitsunari-kun firmly wrapped his arm around my waist.

Mitsunari: At the time, you were going by the name Shojumaru.

Mitsunari: You asked me, “She’s quite a beauty. Does she have a lover?”

Mitsunari: And I gave you this answer.

Mitsunari: “I am her lover. I have no intention of surrendering her to anyone, so please keep that in mind.” —That is what I said.

Looking at Mitsunari-kun’s profile and his clear, steady eyes, my heart gave a violent throb.

(I know this isn't the time for it, but I’m so happy.)

Motonari: ......

Motonari: Kuku...... Hahahaha!

Motonari: You’ve got quite the bark now, Ishida Mitsunari! Your face looks a hell of a lot more determined than it did back then.

Motonari: —It looks like trying to steal that woman from you now would be more trouble than it’s worth.

Kicho: Enough of this useless chatter. Let’s go.

Motonari: See ya, you two. Make sure you entertain me again sometime.

After a loud laugh, Motonari-san turned his horse around and rode off alongside Kicho.

Mitsunari-kun and I watched their departing figures until they disappeared.

Mai: Should we be chasing them?

Mitsunari: My subordinates are already in pursuit. My priority must be to bring this battle to an end.

(If it’s Mitsunari-kun, I know he can do it. The war is finally over......)

Mai: Ah...

I felt a slight wave of dizziness and stumbled, only for Mitsunari-kun to pull me even closer against him.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama, I will protect your “future,” without fail. Please, endure just a little longer.

Held within the arms of a Mitsunari-kun who looked more fearless than ever before, I gave a small smile and nodded.

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Passionate Ending Chapter 15 Premium Story

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A few weeks had passed since the incident at the castle—

Silvio: I’m leaving the castle now. I’ll be back late, so go to sleep without me.

Emma: ......Where are you going at this hour?

Silvio: Business. Just business.

He spoke as if it were nothing and left the room. Once he was gone, I quietly began to tail him.

(I never dreamed I would end up tailing Silvio-sama......)

(But I want to see for myself whether those dark rumors are actually true.)

With that resolve, I recalled the incident that started this—the rumor I had overheard by chance on my way home from shopping in town.

..

Merchant 1: Hey, have you heard the rumor?

Merchant 2: Yeah. You mean the one about Silvio-sama frequenting underground auctions lately?

Merchant 1: Exactly. It sounds like a tall tale, but if it’s true, it would be a huge scandal.

..

(Silvio-sama is the type to use money to get whatever he wants.)

(Even so, I can’t believe he’d actually involve himself with illegal auctions.)

(If he really is participating, there has to be a reason why he’s being forced to do so.)

As I followed him with careful, stealthy steps, I recalled Silvio-sama’s behavior throughout the day.

(I tried to ask him about it earlier, but he just brushed me off.)

(I can’t even get him to listen if I only have mere rumors. I need to find something concrete......)

Desperate to find even a single clue, my tailing has been going surprisingly well so far.

(Ah....... Silvio-sama stopped.)

His sea-colored eyes were fixed upon a grand, old manor that looked incredibly suspicious.

Silvio: .......

(If those rumors are true...... does that mean an underground auction is being held here?)

While I stood there hesitating, Silvio-sama stepped into the manor with an unwavering stride.

(It’s impossible to investigate any further than this...... right?)

(Once Silvio-sama gets back, I’ll just tell him what I saw here and ask him to tell me the truth.)

...

It was late in the night by the time Silvio-sama finally returned to the room.

Emma: Welcome back, Silvio-sama.

I straightened my posture on the bed where I’d been sitting, and his sea-colored eyes widened.

Silvio: You stayed up waiting for me?

Emma: Yes. There’s something I wanted to ask you......

Silvio: And what would that be?

Emma: What were you doing at that manor tonight?

Silvio: Hah. Don’t look so smug with that pathetic attempt at tailing me.

Emma: Wait, you noticed me?

Silvio: Of course I did, you moron. Don’t go wandering around late at night—it’s dangerous.

Silvio: Well, I had guards on you, so I suppose it’s fine.

(There were guards!? I didn't notice at all.)

Emma: ......I’m sorry. But I just had to see for myself.

Silvio: See what?

Emma: —Is it true that you’re participating in underground auctions?

Silvio: Who told you that?

Emma: I happened to overhear some merchants gossiping about it in town yesterday.

Emma: It’s just a groundless rumor, right? You aren’t actually taking part in underground auctions, are you?

Silvio: Taking part? Hah. Don't insult me by treating me like some small-time player.

Emma: .......What do you mean by that?

Silvio: Exactly what I said. I’m not some minor character who just participates in underground auctions.

Emma: I knew it! Thank goodness...... what a relief.

Emma: Then, what was that manor for?

Silvio: It’s an auction venue.

Emma: .......But you aren't participating, right?

Silvio: Yeah, because I’m the organizer.

Emma: Eh......?

Emma: ......Of the underground auction?

Silvio: Who knows?

(My head is spinning.)

(Silvio-sama seems to be trying to dodge the question, but he basically said he’s the one running the underground auction, didn't he......?)

Emma: Why would you do such a thing?

Silvio: Is there any reason to hold an auction other than to get what I want?

Silvio: I use my wealth to get my hands on anything and everything—that’s who I am. You should know that well enough by now.

Silvio-sama curled one side of his mouth into a haughty smirk.

Emma: Silvio-sama, you’re talking like a complete villain.

Silvio: A villain, huh? Doesn't sound too bad.

Emma: What do you mean it doesn't sound too bad? ......Silvio-sama, you aren't that kind of person.

Silvio: I am “that kind of person.”

Emma: I know there has to be another reason.

Emma: Even if you won’t tell me, I’ll find a way to drag it out of you, so please just be honest with me.

Silvio: There’s nothing more to it than the reason I just gave you. Now be a good girl and go to sleep.

Emma: How am I supposed to sleep in a situation like this!?

Silvio: Then shall I help you settle down? I’ll strip those clothes off and hold you myself.

Emma: ......That’s playing dirty.

(I won't let this go. I want to truly understand why Silvio-sama is doing this.)

(......I’ve got it!)

Emma: In that case, let me participate in the auction too!

(If I’m with Silvio-sama, I might be able to figure out his reasons.)

Silvio: Hah? Absolutely not. Are you a complete idiot?

(I’m sure participating in the auction is the fastest way to learn Silvio-sama’s true intentions......)

(I refuse to back down now.)

As I stared at him defiantly, Silvio-sama suddenly grabbed my waist and pulled me toward him with overwhelming force.

Just like that, he pinned me down against the bed—

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Premium Ending

If you'd like to support my translations and read them DAYS before they are published on this Tumblr, consider joining my Patreon!

—

It was five in the afternoon, and the setting sun was ushering in the most poetic chapter of the city’s day.

I turned into a small alleyway. The evening breeze moved at a leisurely pace, quietly brushing away the sweltering legacy of the midday sun from the heat-soaked asphalt.

It should have been a peaceful summer evening—if I hadn't heard that frantic bird chirp behind me a second before stepping through my front door.

You: That's strange. Why does that sound so familiar?

Unable to suppress my curiosity, I followed the sound back out.

Just as I reached the public mailboxes at the corner, a small, dark shadow lunged into my arms with a soft flump.

Chirp, chirp—accompanied by a clear, sharp cry, I recognized the signature black-and-gold silk scarf around her neck and those round, beady black eyes.

You: Sherry—

You: What are you doing here?

I balanced the hopping little sparrow in my palm, wondering what could have possessed Charlie’s precious daughter to fly all the way to my house solo.

Sherry let out an indifferent peep and turned to dive into the thick vines beside the mailboxes. There was a frantic rustling deep within the leaves, mixed with a few faint chirps.

You: Are you looking for something, Sherry?

She ignored me. Just as I thought I was being snubbed, a fluffy little head popped back out from the vines, holding a bronze object in her beak.

You: The mailbox key! You were looking for this...

You: I see. Are you trying to tell me there’s something important in the mailbox?

Sherry: Chirp, chirp!

Sherry hopped up and nuzzled my cheek in confirmation. I took the key and opened the mailbox—

Inside was a thick stack of white documents. Aside from those, the mailbox was empty.

You: Where did this come from?

The seal on the transparent folder was printed with the words Guangqi First People’s Hospital. A subtle sense of unease began to pool in my heart.

For as long as I could remember, images associated with hospital and documents were never particularly pleasant...

Sherry: Chirp, chirp!!

Sherry reminded me that there was a card pressed beneath the documents.

To be precise, it was a crumpled sticky note torn from a hospital calendar. The words had been written in a frantic rush, the handwriting so scrawled it looked like it was trying to take flight—

Charlie's Note: I’m at the hospital. It’s urgent. Come quickly.

Charlie's Note: SOS, Charlie.

You: This is bad. Something happened!

I dropped the folder and dashed to the curb, hailing the nearest taxi.

You: Driver, Guangqi First People’s Hospital! As fast as you can!

Taxi Driver: Little lady, is someone in your family having a health emergency?

You: ...Yes.

I answered absentmindedly. A crystal-clear realization hit me: I might truly be Charlie’s only family in Guangqi.

I imagined the helplessness he must have felt writing that distress signal and the tension in his face. Unsettling images flashed through my mind like a revolving lantern.

Right now, I just needed this taxi to go fast—faster.

Ten minutes later, Guangqi First People’s Hospital.

Stepping into the lobby, I instantly recognized the figure in the distance, deep in conversation with someone else.

Charlie: Since time is short, let’s leave the discussion regarding my health here for now.

Charlie: Once I’ve ascended to the heavens, remember to tell everyone not to miss me too much.

You: What?!

My ears couldn't process anything further; I stood frozen in place.

"Health"... "heavens.".. those words felt like a heavy blow, pinning the last rays of dawn against a suffocating gray wall.

You: His condition is actually that serious...

I stared blankly at Charlie’s back. His Sea Silk haute couture suit was still as crisp and handsome as ever, and his voice remained deep and captivating.

It felt as if nothing had changed—when mentioning the end of his life, he sounded as suave as if he were arranging a routine global banquet for the Novaten Group.

But somehow, everything had changed. The documents in the mailbox had issued a pale, grim warning, and he was already planning his departure.

I couldn't suppress my emotions any longer and sprinted toward him. The moment my footsteps echoed through the lobby, he whipped around and saw me—

Charlie: Fiancée!

Charlie opened his arms as a reflex and caught me.

You: I'm sorry, I'm late.

His warm embrace acted like a net, catching all my unease. But the more warm and familiar it felt, the more I couldn't help but feel terrified of what almost was.

You: Charlie, why didn't you tell me about this sooner...

You: Were you really going to leave me and go all by yourself?

Charlie: What are you worried about, you silly girl?

Charlie reached out and patted my head, soothing me gently.

Charlie: If I'm going, I'm certainly taking you with me.

You: Huh...?

I snapped my head up, the tears that were about to fall freezing in my eyes.

You: No, that—that...

You: That's really not necessary.

Charlie: How is it not necessary?

Charlie gently pressed me back into his embrace, his movements tender and his tone intimate.

Charlie: There could never be a better candidate than you.

You: Wait, wait just a second!

Noticing my resistance, Charlie lowered his head, his soaring tone suddenly dropping.

Charlie: But, fiancée, I can't wait any longer.

Charlie: No matter how omnipotent I am, I simply cannot—

Charlie: Experience an aerial wedding all by myself.

You: ...Eh? You want to experience an aerial wedding with me?

Charlie: Exactly. I asked Sherry to deliver the physical examination forms and safety precautions earlier.

Charlie: Don't tell me my fiancée still doesn't understand my heart?

Charlie arched an eyebrow and pulled a stack of familiar white documents from behind his back, the folder printed with the exact same hospital logo.

You: Oh, I see...

I gave an embarrassed laugh, taking the opportunity to wipe away my half-dried tears.

Charlie: It seems I've caused a misunderstanding.

Charlie knelt down to meet my eyes, his thumb gently rubbing my swollen eyelids.

Charlie: I'll have to handle things personally from now on.

Charlie: I was so busy with the check-up that I didn't consider things thoroughly. Put this debt on my tab; we'll settle the bill altogether later.

You: ...You really do love picking up the check, don't you?

Charlie: I can't help it; my love is just too generous.

We traded words back and forth, and through our mutual teasing, the atmosphere that had been frozen with awkwardness began to melt away.

Charlie stroked my back and began to explain the whole story—

Charlie: Actually, I should thank you, fiancée. Ever since I arrived in Guangqi, I've suddenly realized the massive potential of the wedding industry.

Charlie: A friend contacted me recently about co-investing in a wedding planning company. Our main project is aerial weddings—

Charlie: We'll combine live aerial broadcasts with traditional ground ceremonies to give couples a more unique wedding experience.

Charlie: However, there’s very little experience to reference for this format. To optimize the process to the fullest, I had to sacrifice myself and experience it firsthand.

Charlie: As for the wedding partner...

Charlie glanced at me meaningfully. In an instant, we both thought of the blunder that had just occurred. I looked away, feeling a bit sheepish.

You: Haha, so that's how it is.

You: You should have just said so. When I saw your signature on the card, I thought...

Charlie: You thought—?

Charlie stopped mid-sentence as if a lightbulb had gone off.

Charlie: Oh, right, right! I forgot to synchronize one thing with my fiancée—I recently changed my email signature.

Charlie: S.O.S. Charlie.

Charlie: It’s an abbreviation for "Super Outstandingly Sweet Charlie."

Charlie: Isn't it much more magnificent than the old "Love Charlie?"

Looking at Charlie's proud expression, I guiltily gave him a thumbs up.

You: It certainly shows... a real spirit of craftsmanship.

The misunderstanding finally settled. Charlie and I successfully completed a series of signature confirmations.

Just as I was preparing to head to the next part of the physical exam, Charlie suddenly pulled me back, his expression looking slightly constrained.

Charlie: By the way. Y/N, do you... want a real wedding ring?

Charlie: I mean, after all, an aerial wedding experience is still a wedding, isn't it?

You: A wedding ring?

Hearing him ask this, I was actually a little confused. Knowing Charlie's personality, he should have had a plan long ago...

But before I could answer, Charlie suddenly switched gears as if he had already found the answer. He leaned against the wall in a dashing pose and let out a seemingly helpless sigh.

Charlie: Sigh, I understand your internal conflict.

You: ...Eh? Am I conflicted?

Charlie ignored me and continued speaking softly to himself.

Charlie: A wedding without a diamond ring and a commitment is incomplete.

Charlie: But you're worried that if we prepare the ring now, there won't be a sense of surprise later. Most importantly, it would make it look like you're in a hurry.

You: ...You have a point. So, what do you think, Dr. Zha?

Charlie: Me? Hmph, I'm staying calm in the face of change, of course.

Charlie raised his left hand and rubbed his nose.

Suddenly, several flashes of golden light caught my eye. Even if it was just for a split second, I couldn't help but notice—on his left hand, he was secretly trying on at least five different styles of glittering diamond rings.

It seemed someone was indeed in a hurry. However, I decided privately that some things were better left unsaid.

You: Dr. Zha, allow me to offer a few perspectives.

You: Actually, as a designer, I've seen many diamond rings.

You: Most of the time, they're just a way to turn romance into something physical; one shouldn't be constrained by it.

You: Besides, I believe you'll never lack a sense of surprise. Right?

Charlie coughed and consciously hid his hand full of diamond rings behind his back.

Charlie: Exactly, I was thinking the same thing.

Charlie: When it comes to being in sync with my fiancée, I'm second to none.

I gave his chest an encouraging pat, but I didn't expect a large stack of photos to fall out of his suit pocket, scattering all over the floor. The designs on them looked somewhat familiar—

You: ...Charlie, are these sample photos for wedding dresses?

Charlie: Fiancée!

Charlie let out a loud shout, lifting his bare wrist which didn't have a watch on it at all.

Charlie: It’s getting late. Hurry and go get your physical exam.

And just like that, I was hurriedly ushered into the examination room by a flustered Charlie.

The entire process finished quickly. The doctor informed me that all my health indicators were normal, and the aerial wedding would proceed as scheduled.

Wedding day.

I arrived early at the lounge provided by the wedding company. By now, everyone was already bustling about.

Staff Member A: Miss Y/N, time is tight. Could you please go and try on your wedding dress first?

Staff Member A: We will handle contacting Mr. Zha, so please don't worry.

You: Understood.

I gave a polite nod. Then, clutching a bundle of wedding gowns, I entered the dressing room alone.

Just as I was about to change into the dress, I felt a sudden tug on my scalp—it turned out my hair had gotten tangled tightly in my necklace.

You: Sigh, really...

I tried to untangle it, but the hair only wound around a bit tighter...

Now, what should I do—

Option 1: Ask the staff for help Option 2: Ask Charlie for help Option 3: Untie the necklace yourself Option 4: Search belongings for a compact mirror Option 5: None of the above

—

Option 1: Ask the staff for help

Inside the dressing room, I was at a complete standstill with that stubborn lock of hair.

In the end, I decided to ask the staff members outside for help.

You: Hello, is there anyone...

Before I could finish, the click of a latch reached my ears, as if in response to my request.

Relieved, I immediately gave up my struggle with the stray hairs and pulled open the dressing room curtain.

You: Excuse me, would you have a moment to help me—

??: I do. I’m here.

The person outside the door heard the movement and glanced in my direction. In an instant, I found myself looking straight into a pair of clear, violet eyes.

You: Charlie!

You: What are you doing here—

I snapped the curtain shut, holding it firmly in front of me.

Charlie strode over to the dressing room. His footsteps stopped at the entrance, but his voice pursued me relentlessly through the fabric.

Charlie: What’s wrong? Don't want to see me?

You: Of course not!

I felt the mess of stray hairs at the back of my head. A subtle yet stubborn sense of propriety took hold of me—

Standing here with my hair in such a state was not at all how I wanted him to see me for our "wedding ceremony."

Right then, Charlie, on the other side of the curtain, descended into an entirely different romantic brainstorm.

Charlie: ...If it isn't that you "don't want to see me," then it must be that you do.

Charlie: You want to see me, yet you refuse my help?

Charlie: Then I can only interpret these feelings as lovesick longing, mixed with a touch of tender pity and heartache.

You: Wait—!

I pulled back the curtain slightly and poked my head out from behind the door.

You: Didn't the staff tell us before that the groom and bride have to remain a mystery and can't see each other before the ceremony...

Charlie: Mm, I haven't forgotten. But I missed you. I want to see you right now, and not even the rules of a wedding ceremony can stop me.

You: But what if the staff finds out...

Charlie: If you don't tell and I don't tell, who’s going to know?

Charlie: Surely my fiancée isn't still the type to tattle at her age?

Charlie looked at me pointedly, his brow arching slightly.

Just then, a series of hurried, unfamiliar footsteps approached from the corner nearby.

???: Mr. Zha, are you in here?

???: You haven't tried on your suit yet, Mr. Zha. Mr. Zha?

Charlie’s expression shifted instantly. It was a look I’d only ever seen on the face of a student caught red-handed while cheating on an exam.

You: It doesn't seem like a matter of tattling anymore...

Charlie: I know. Hold on, let me find a place to hide.

Even though he was trying to act calm, I could still sense his tension from the way his brows were knit tight.

The unfamiliar footsteps drew closer and closer. On a sudden, inexplicable impulse, I reached out my hand toward him.

Charlie: ...You!

You: You don't want them to find out, right? Come in.

I lightly tugged on Charlie’s suit cuff. The curtain was lifted and dropped, and a rich, fougère scent instantly flooded the room.

The next second, Charlie was standing right in front of me.

As most of my impulsive energy faded, I realized just how risky my actions had been. My cheeks suddenly felt hot, and I quietly turned my head away.

Charlie: Thank you.

I pressed a finger against his lips as a silent response.

In the stillness, it felt as though all I could hear were two beating hearts and the movements of the staff member outside the door.

Staff Member: Miss Y/N, are you there?

Being called out by name so suddenly nearly made me jump out of my skin.

You: Ah... I’m here! Is something the matter?

Staff Member: Excuse me, have you seen Mr. Zha? we don't seem to be able to find him anywhere...

Charlie lowered his gaze and shook his head at me.

You: ...I haven't seen him.

Staff Member: Alright, sorry to have bothered you.

I felt a sudden pressure against my back as Charlie reached out to embrace me, his chest vibrating slightly as if he were stifling a laugh.

Finding no success in their search, the person outside muttered to themselves and headed off in the opposite direction.

It wasn't until the sound of footsteps faded around the corner that my nerves finally began to settle.

I fumbled for the switch to a small mood light in the dressing room. The space brightened instantly, allowing me to see the expression of the man in front of me clearly.

Strangely, Charlie, who had been the one driving the atmosphere just moments ago, had gone silent. A suspicious flush had crept up to the tips of his ears.

You: Charlie, what’s wrong?

Charlie turned his head away, his hand pointing vaguely toward my chest.

Charlie: Fiancée, you... please fix your clothes first.

I looked down only to realize the neckline of my wedding dress wasn't straightened yet, leaving quite a bit of skin exposed.

You: Agh, I...

Thinking back to Charlie’s odd reaction just now, my cheeks flared up with heat.

Charlie: No, don't be nervous. I’ll keep my eyes closed the whole time.

Charlie: Get yourself sorted out first. I’ll wait for you.

Hearing his words, I looked up at him. Sure enough, the man in front of me had his eyes squeezed shut, his thick eyelashes fluttering steadily with every breath.

You: Okay, let me just fix a few more things.

The proximity of Charlie’s body heat felt like a timer urging me to move faster. I checked everything in order, from the folds of the mermaid skirt to the rose decorations on the shoulders.

However, my necklace was still tangled in my hair.

You: Charlie, since you're already in here, could you do me a favor?

Charlie: ...Ahem. What do you need me to do?

You: My hair and my necklace are caught together. See if you can help me untangle them.

Charlie gave a soft hum of affirmation. His warm fingertips pressed against my shoulder, slowly climbing up along my collarbone as if he had lost his way.

When I looked up, I saw that he was, predictably, still keeping his eyes closed out of habit.

You: Pfft. Honestly, Charlie, you can open your eyes now.

Charlie: ...Alright.

His light lashes lifted slowly. Our eyes met, and Charlie’s gaze shimmered with a dewy light in the dim surroundings.

After taking a long, careful look at my outfit, his lips curved into a warm arc.

Charlie: Though it might be a bit early to say this—fiancée, you really are beautiful.

After he finished speaking, his hands found the knot where my necklace and hair were tangled. He fiddled with it gently for a moment, but it didn't seem to come loose.

Charlie: Tsk, it’s still a bit too dark.

With that, he took a step closer, standing before me in a position that was practically an embrace.

His lowered head was right before my eyes, sending his hazy breath against my neck. Everything was already dim, and under the dressing room lights, the atmosphere became even more ambiguous.

You: Is it okay now?

Charlie: Shh, just a little longer.

His fingers brushed against my shoulder. Before long, I heard the click of the necklace unfastening, and the tension on my scalp finally vanished.

A wordless, honest understanding flowed quietly through the room. I was just about to say something—

Unexpectedly, the footsteps at the door doubled back once more.

Staff Member: That’s strange. Has no one found Mr. Zha yet?

Staff Member: You don't think there’s been another "runaway groom" incident, do you...

Hearing the "runaway groom" business mentioned so suddenly made Charlie and I look at each other. A trace of irony drifted through the awkward silence, a sense of how much things had changed.

I pressed my palms together, giving Charlie a guilty "sorry" gesture.

Charlie leaned down, whispering into my ear and deliberately letting his breath fall against my burning earlobe.

Charlie: ...Hmph. Don't let it happen again.

Just as we thought the crisis was about to resolve in this atmosphere, the staff member outside suddenly tapped their head, struck by an idea.

Staff Member: Let’s just give him a call.

You: What, a phone call?!

Both Charlie and I widened our eyes. Oh no—this was a disaster.

No sooner said than done; before Charlie could even react, the staff member pressed the call button.

Charlie: Wa—wait a second.

"Chirp, chirp-chirp"—Charlie’s exclusive ringtone suddenly erupted from inside the dressing room, accompanied by a buzzing vibration.

Charlie and I exchanged a look: We’re doomed!

Suddenly, all the busy noise from the staff outside came to a halt.

Vaguely, I could hear a chorus of whispers—"Mr. Zha is actually in there," "No wonder he didn't answer when we called," "The young couple really can't wait a single moment, can they."

Both Charlie and I turned beet red; at this point, no amount of explaining could clear our names.

Staff Member: Everyone, let's clear the area immediately and leave the space to Mr. Zha.

The surrounding staff members murmured in agreement and began to file out. Before leaving, someone even called out toward our direction.

Staff Member: Mr. Zha, the bride’s wedding accessories are quite intricate. Please... take it easy, don't go tearing anything.

Charlie: ...Something’s already been torn.

You: It was only my hair that got caught!

I gave Charlie a light poke as a warning. He chuckled softly, his tone suddenly becoming relaxed.

Charlie: It’s all the same; you needed me to come to the rescue either way.

You: Fine, then on behalf of the version of me in a parallel universe who actually tore her dress, I thank you.

As we went back and forth, the awkwardness unknowingly vanished without a trace...

It was almost time. Charlie turned to go prepare for his change of clothes, while I began my hair and makeup styling.

Busy hours always seem to slip away without a sound. By the time the last stray lock of hair was tucked into place, the music for the wedding ceremony had already begun to play outside.

During the most intense heat of the afternoon, a stretch Lincoln delivered me to the Hundred Flowers Cliff.

This was the highest point in all of Guangqi. Flowers in shades of white and purple crept along the path toward the edge of the cliff, eventually unfolding into a vast, rolling sea of blossoms.

In the deepest and most distant corner of this floral expanse, a mountain of gifts and ribbons seemed to form a romantic whirlpool. And at the center of all that romance stood the man I had been anticipating for so long.

Charlie: Fiancée, you’ve finally arrived.

Charlie stood leaning casually against the front of the car with his legs crossed. The plain-colored suit complemented his frame, making him look exceptionally tall and handsome.

Perhaps because the wait had been so long, the moment I heard his voice, a hollow corner of my heart suddenly felt as though it had been filled.

He walked toward me at a measured pace and naturally took hold of my right hand, which was clad in a white silk glove.

You: Charlie, how long have you been waiting here?

Charlie: A year.

You: ...Charlie?

Charlie: It has been exactly one year since the first time we met.

Charlie: Therefore, it has been about a year since I fell in love with you at first sight.

So, he wasn't thinking about how long he had been waiting by the cliff.

You: Do you think that’s too long?

Charlie: Not at all.

Charlie: Or are you the one in a hurry, thinking we’ve let too much time slip by?

You: Of course not. I just still feel like I don't fully know you yet...

You: I suspect you feel that way sometimes, too.

Charlie: On that point, I agree.

Charlie: However, time itself is a very curious thing. It’s something everyone possesses equally without needing to trade anything for it.

Charlie: That is why I rarely use time to measure value; it would make things feel far from special.

You: Charlie, do you care a lot about things being "special?"

Charlie: I do. Because you are "special," I must be "special" enough to match.

Charlie: For instance, today—

Charlie snapped his fingers, and a group of staff members in suits slowly pushed a giant, platinum-colored motorized glider toward the edge of the cliff.

Under the dazzling sunlight, every mechanical detail of the glider radiated a brilliance even more intense than the sun itself.

I hadn't expected Charlie to arrange something like this; I stood there, staring in a daze.

You: Is this... the aerial wedding?

Charlie: Exactly. I’ve considered ten thousand ways to get closest to the sky, but none of them compare to this.

Charlie: Come now, fiancée. Are you willing to be the one who flies with me?

Charlie bowed slightly, extending a gentlemanly hand toward me.

Without a moment's hesitation, I placed my hand in his, our palms meeting as we interlaced our fingers in a firm grip.

Charlie and I sat on the glider, one behind the other. The summer breeze was gentle now, carrying the warmth of the entire city of Guangqi as it whispered to me from across the cliff.

Charlie: Put on your helmet. We’re heading out.

The glider started up, and the propeller behind us began to spin, accelerating from slow to a high-speed whir that sent my long hair and veil fluttering in the air.

With a loud, thunderous roar, the glider soared into the sky.

Charlie: Don't be nervous. Just leave the rest to me.

You: Mm. I’m truly entrusting my life to you now.

Offering words that were half-joking and half-earnest, I turned my head to find Charlie’s gaze.

My billowing veil obscured Charlie’s smile behind a shroud of white mist. I gave the white gauze a tug, but I didn't expect that with just a light pull, the veil would fly off like a white dove.

You: Wait—

The veil was like a drifting white leaf, falling back into the cluster of flowers by the cliffside.

Charlie: It’s alright. Let it go.

Charlie: The most important thing is always the scenery in the next chapter.

I nodded and looked back at him again. Without the veil blocking my view, Charlie’s smile looked even more sincere.

The glider was like a vessel, sailing into the boundless skies of Guangqi. The city's sprawling landscape unfolded beneath us like an endless, grand scroll.

Suddenly, I spotted a familiar golden building on the ground.

You: Charlie, look over there.

You: That's your house, isn't it?

Charlie followed the direction of my finger and gave a nodding smile.

Charlie: Exactly. It seems my fiancée already has my location etched into her heart.

You: I know more than just that.

You: Look there. That place near my house—that should be Guangqi First People’s Hospital.

Charlie: Yes, you haven't mistaken it.

You: Of course I haven't. How many all-nighters did you pull in that second-floor duty room just so you could go on a date with me?

Charlie: I don't remember. That's not important.

Charlie: I only need to remember the image of my fiancée and me sharing a deep embrace at the hospital.

I laughed softly, my gaze suddenly drifting toward a vibrant splash of color—the amusement park.

The stories about those balloons floated back into my mind. Thinking of that boy waiting in the dusk made me want to peer closer, to reach out and lead him away from the shadows.

Slowly, I reached out and covered Charlie's hand as it rested on the railing. I felt the clear lines of his knuckles and gradually laced my fingers with his.

Charlie: It's alright to hold on tighter, fiancée.

Charlie: Because we're going even further now.

Charlie laughed and pulled the control lever, sending the glider veering in a new direction with the wind. Suddenly, he leaned close to my cheek, dropping a curious question in my ear.

Charlie: Fiancée, let me test you.

Charlie: Over there in the suburbs, that place surrounded by green trees—do you still recognize it?

I looked where he was pointing and saw a familiar piece of land.

You: That's... the zoo.

You: I remember you released an eagle there. I wonder how it's doing now...

Charlie: Good memory. I had someone look into it; that eagle is doing very well. It's a free bird now.

You: Mm, that’s wonderful.

Charlie: Hmph, "wonderful"? What exactly is so wonderful?

Charlie: Is it that after experiencing so many things, you can finally appreciate from every angle what a perfect fiancé I am?

You: Mmhmm, I suppose you’re passable.

Charlie: What? "Passable"?

Charlie: Are you sure about that?

Charlie laughed as he delivered his final ultimatum.

The moment I gave a slight nod, the glider suddenly jolted. The abrupt sensation of weightlessness terrified me into instantly changing my tune.

You: I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I wasn't telling the truth!

You: Charlie, you’re the most perfect of all!

Charlie: Hmph, that’s more like it. I’m satisfied with that answer.

The pride in Charlie’s voice practically overflowed, and even the stray hairs on his head seemed to perk up with his mood.

Charlie: However, I didn't change course just to scare you.

I was half-skeptical. Charlie curled his lips into a smirk and pointed beneath us.

Charlie: If you don't believe me, look.

I looked down and saw that the glider had cleared the rolling mountain ranges of Guangqi, reaching the far side of the peaks.

A vast, emerald lake shimmered with golden ripples under the sun. The wind carried the damp scent of forest trees, rippling with a beauty as ethereal as mist.

Our tiny reflection sat right in the center of the lake, as if the mountains and waters themselves were witnessing our freedom. Excitedly, I pointed out the moving dark shadow on the water to Charlie—

You: Look, there’s another pair of newlyweds over there!

Charlie leaned in, resting his chin on my shoulder as he looked in the direction I was pointing.

Charlie: Where?

You: Right there! In the very center of the lake, there’s our reflection!

Charlie: Eh? You aren't playing a joke on me, are you, fiancée? I can't see a thing.

You: How could you...

A sense of confusion slowly rose in my heart. It was such an obvious shadow; why was Charlie being so blind to it?

I reached out and waved my hand in front of his eyes. Snap—Charlie caught my flailing hand in a firm grip.

Charlie: Alright, there’s nothing wrong with my eyes.

Charlie: Point it out one more time. Give me one last chance.

You: Fine, but you have to look closely this time.

Skeptical, I reached out and pointed toward the center of the lake once more.

Charlie: Found them!

You: Really?!

I turned back toward Charlie's face in excitement, only to find him wearing a mischievous smirk.

The hand I was using to point toward the center of the lake was suddenly captured by his, and a cool, miniature ring-shaped object began to slide slowly down my finger.

By the time I came to my senses, I realized a purple ring had appeared on my hand, its crystal-clear diamond refracting a brilliant, shimmering light.

You: This...

The suddenness of the gesture left me stunned. A thousand things I wanted to say were caught in my throat, choked with emotion.

Charlie: Well? Do you like it?

You: I do.

You: Charlie, I love it!

I looked back into his violet eyes, which sparkled with a light as unique as the diamond itself.

Charlie: Mm. Fiancée, I love you, too.

His smile was blindingly bright as he leaned his head against my neck, his soft hair brushing against my skin.

You: Charlie, that was so sudden...

You: I was just a second away—only a tiny bit away—from being scared out of my wits! Why didn't you give me any time to prepare?

I leaned against his shoulder, murmuring my complaints. Hearing this, Charlie let out a triumphant look.

Charlie: If you had time to prepare, how could it be called a surprise?

I smiled. Perhaps this was just how it was with Charlie; I had to get used to the fact that he would always arrive a step ahead of the surprise itself.

Charlie: Fiancée, if you really insist on having preparation time, I suppose it’s not impossible.

Charlie: You’re about to have an opportunity right now. Look below us.

I looked down and realized we had already flown past the mountainside and were hovering over the lawns of the Guangqi Manor.

Balloons drifted through the estate and music filled the air. People dressed in their finest suits and gowns were waving up at us.

Charlie: This is where the ball will be held later.

Charlie: It’s about that time. Fiancée, are you willing to touch down with me?

You: I am.

I agreed with a nod, not a single doubt in my mind.

When I looked back, I saw Charlie press a button, and a small megaphone rose from the glider’s storage compartment—what was he doing?

Charlie pressed the button on the megaphone and held it to his lips—

Charlie: Hello, friends and family!

Charlie: The current Guangqi time is 5:21 PM, and my fiancée has just told me that she is willing!

Charlie: Repeating the broadcast: it is 5:21 PM Guangqi time, and my fiancée has told me she is willing...

You: Is this... is this really the "preparation time" you promised me?

Charlie: It is. I did say "it’s about that time."

To the sound of Charlie’s deafening public announcement, our glider slowly made its descent.

The melodic strains of the orchestral dance music and the enthusiastic cheers of both adults and children surrounded us completely. I stepped off the glider and onto the white carpet.

Charlie: Fiancée, take my hand.

You: Okay.

I took Charlie’s arm and we walked along the carpet, passing through three floral arches. Chirp, chirp—countless birds flew in from every direction, circling around us.

In this moment, I began to believe it: when Charlie spoke of "a hundred birds paying homage to the phoenix" back at the zoo, perhaps it wasn't a joke after all. Just like all his other seemingly "exaggerated" claims, it was actually the truth.

As we passed through the final floral arch, the music swelled toward its climax. Suddenly, amidst the harmonious rhythm, a sharp, sudden eagle’s cry rang out—

You: What happened?

I looked up to see an eagle soaring down from the mountaintop, the color of its feathers strikingly familiar.

You: Charlie, is that the eagle we released at the zoo?

Charlie: Exactly. That’s the one.

As the eagle flew closer, I noticed it seemed to be carrying something in its beak—

You: It’s the veil that flew away back at the cliff!

In this moment, I couldn't tell what moved me more: recovering what I’d lost, or reuniting with an old friend.

Tears nearly welled up in my eyes. Charlie took the veil from the eagle and pinned it back into my styled hair. At this moment, every accidental spark of love we’d shared along the way felt like it had finally become a complete story.

Charlie: Fiancée, may I have this dance?

Charlie: As the most perfect opening for this wedding.

Charlie bowed, extending an invitation to me.

I gave a soft nod, returning his gesture with a whole year’s worth of passion and anticipation.

The music began to play. Bathed in sunlight, the formal orchestra struck up the most joyous movement of the day.

The music swelled. The orchestra, clad in formal attire, played the most jubilant movement under the sun.

The notes danced and the melody flowed as if it would never reach a rest.

The miniature music box figurines atop the ten-tier cream cake began to chime and twirl, as if the surrounding air were being drawn into a sweet, swirling vortex.

The miniature music box figurines atop the ten-tier cream cake began to chime and twirl, as if the surrounding air were being drawn into a sweet, swirling vortex.

You: Charlie, may I invite you to the next dance?

Charlie: Of course. Today, yours is the only invitation I will accept.

Charlie: Because when it comes to the dance of love, no one could ever be a more perfect partner than you.

I followed Charlie’s lead, spinning joyfully as I lost myself completely in the music.

When the song ended, Charlie and I followed the line of the setting sun along the mountainside until we reached the front of the garden.

You: By the way, Charlie, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.

Charlie: Speak.

Charlie popped a lollipop into his mouth and looked at me with an arched brow.

You: Back in the dressing room, were you really afraid of being caught seeing each other early?

You: It just didn't seem like you to be so worried about rules and procedures.

Charlie: You’re right. I don't care about rules.

Charlie: But I do care about you.

Charlie: As long as you give me the nod, I am willing to treat everything concerning you with the utmost gravity. Not because of a wedding, or anything else.

I looked at Charlie; the light in his eyes felt even richer and more mellow than the sunset.

You: Charlie.

I whispered his name, taking hold of his hand as it hung at his side.

I often realized that the gentleman sitting beside me possessed an incredibly buoyant soul. It seemed that for him, neither time nor distance were anything out of the ordinary.

If love was the scale by which he measured everything, then I wanted to be the only frame of reference beneath those violet clouds.

—

Option 2: Ask Charlie for help

After struggling fruitlessly with my necklace, I finally gave up and decided to ask Charlie for help.

You: Charlie, are you there?

I poked my head out from the dressing room, searching for him.

A stylist with twin tails saw me looking around and walked straight over.

Stylist: Miss Y/N, Mr. Zha has already headed to the wedding venue.

Stylist: Is there anything you would like me to convey to him?

I quickly explained the situation to her. The stylist warmly helped me untangle the necklace and promised to hand it over to someone reliable for safekeeping.

With her help, everything seemed to be going much more smoothly.

Half an hour later, all the preparations were complete. Surrounded by the staff, I climbed into a six-wheeled stretch Hummer.

The car drove into a sea of endless blossoms, heading all the way toward a private manor nestled on the mountainside.

Gradually, the vegetation on both sides of the road grew shorter, and the view began to open up.

You: The manor should be just ahead.

I looked out from the window toward the distant lawn. A small figure in white stood alone before the wedding plane, waiting quietly.

You: It’s Charlie!

You: I couldn't mistake him.

The Hummer slowed to a stop at the manor gates, and the figure in the white suit was now right before my eyes.

The broad, sturdy shoulders, the flawless hairstyle, and the long, lean legs—every detail was like a model answer with Charlie’s name written all over it.

Strangely, however, he kept his back turned to me. His slender hand rested on the fuselage of the plane as if he were inspecting something.

You: I didn't know Charlie was an expert in aircraft maintenance, too.

Holding up the skirt of my dress, I ran toward that tall silhouette beneath the wing. When I was only four or five meters away from him, I gently slowed my pace.

The breeze carried Charlie’s low murmurs directly to me.

Charlie: Strange, how could this happen?

Charlie: An accident like this has never occurred before today...

Charlie’s tone sounded incredibly solemn. My heart began to sink; I had a growing, vague feeling that what was happening before my eyes wasn't quite what I had imagined.

Just a few steps away, he continued to mutter in a rare, bitter tone, his expression almost one of penance.

Charlie: I specifically prepared five sets of alternative plans before heading out, and I even asked Uncle Ji to conduct three separate sensitivity tests...

Charlie: Now that this has happened, how am I supposed to face my fiancée?

Seeing how distraught he was, I desperately wanted to go to him and offer some comfort.

You: Charlie, what’s wrong?

Hearing me call his name, Charlie nearly jumped out of his skin.

Charlie: Fiancée, you’re here.

Charlie turned around, shielding his forehead with his hand while casting a guilty glance in my direction.

Charlie: I... I’ve run into a bit of a situation here, but it’s nothing serious.

You: It’s not serious? That’s good. You looked a bit down just now; I thought there was something wrong with the plane.

Charlie: A problem with the plane? Hardly. Your safety is always my number one priority.

Charlie: It’s just...

Charlie hesitated, his voice trailing off as he lowered the hand covering his forehead.

Charlie: I developed a closed comedo last night.

I looked up at Charlie’s face, and indeed, there seemed to be a tiny bump on his otherwise flawless forehead.

You: Haha, so that's what you were worried about! No one would notice it unless they were looking up close, so don't worry.

You: You look very handsome today. I could pick you out from five hundred meters away.

Charlie: ...Really?

A second ago he was dejected, but now a laugh escaped from the corner of Charlie's mouth.

You: Of course. You told me once—a smile is your best business card!

You: Right now, your business card looks like it’s been engraved in gold.

Charlie’s lips curled upward as that light of self-confidence filled his eyes once more, making even the air around him seem to turn buoyant.

As evening fell, Charlie and I boarded the wedding plane.

Although the exterior looked no different from an ordinary aircraft, the cabin was a world of its own. The combination of classical style and modern relief decorations gave the entire space a sense of solemnity without losing its fashion-forward edge.

Charlie and I found the sofa closest to the window and sat down.

Charlie: Fiancée, are you nervous?

You: Not at all. I’m actually really looking forward to it.

Charlie: Good to hear. Then, we’re heading out.

Clap, clap, clap—Charlie clapped his hands three times. As if they had ears, the surrounding walls began to emit a mist, making it feel as though we were nestled right in the clouds.

Outside the window, Guangqi grew smaller and smaller. Melodic classical music slowly began to play, swirling around us along with the clouds and mist. Everything felt pleasant and relaxed.

You: So this is what it feels like to look at Guangqi from within the clouds.

Charlie: Exactly. This perspective is much like a bird’s.

Charlie and I leaned against the window, gazing at the scenery outside together.

You: Charlie, do you usually get to see the full view of Guangqi from an angle like this?

Charlie: Theoretically, yes.

You: Does that mean it’s actually different in practice?

Charlie: It is. Such situations are quite common. For instance—

Charlie: If there is ever a day where my fiancée is unhappy and hides from me, then Guangqi is no longer complete to me.

You: So that’s what you meant...

As I spoke, I recalled the scene of our very first meeting on a plane.

At that time, I knew almost nothing about the engagement and was forced into a game of Russian Roulette. My internal resistance had reached its absolute peak.

But who could have known that such a change would occur in the months that followed?

I wasn't even sure myself when these feelings began to shift.

Perhaps it was when he stepped in to help me at the bar, or when I saw him refuse the dolphin show at the zoo, or perhaps it was when he picked me up and softly called me "fiancée"...

By the time I realized it, the defenses that once stood like a barrier had crumbled away, piece by piece.

The wings sliced through the gradually darkening clouds. Before I knew it, a long time had passed.

Charlie: Fiancée, it’s about that time. Let’s head to the chapel.

We entered the chapel inside the aircraft. Beneath the Baroque portico, a shimmering belt of mica stretched across the center of the hall.

Inspired perhaps by the rose lines of European cathedrals, it was transparent and magnificent, running the entire length of the chapel.

At this moment, the staff had not yet arrived, leaving only the two of us in the hall.

You: Charlie.

I called out his name, and a low echo drifted through the cabin as if responding to my voice.

Charlie: Fiancée, why did you suddenly call my name?

Charlie turned around, looking at me in surprise.

You: I just realized your name sounds very beautiful.

Charlie: Y/N.

Charlie: Yours is, too.

The empty chapel also bounced back his voice. Like a jazz melody, it lingered within the ethereal light of the cabin.

Watching his tender gaze, I couldn't help but look forward to a day when we might leave even more echoes in each other's hearts.

After a brief tour, I chose a seat on a bench on the left side of the chapel.

Charlie paced onto the platform on the right side, looking back at me from across the room.

You: Charlie, let me ask you something.

Charlie: Ask away.

You: What made you think of building a chapel like this inside a plane?

Charlie’s gaze followed the rose line all the way to me, his curled lips suggesting he was in an excellent mood.

Charlie: Fiancée, do you know? The higher the altitude, the thinner the air and the lower the gravity.

Charlie: No place is better suited for "freedom" than the sky.

You: But...

Charlie: Mm, what is it?

You: But many people say that a wedding is a commitment and marriage is a constraint.

You: That seems a bit contradictory to the idea of freedom.

Charlie: It’s not a contradiction.

Charlie: Fiancée, you should understand this better than I do.

Charlie looked down at me. Though he was smiling, I felt a rare sense of gravity from him.

I think we both simultaneously recalled the scene of our first meeting, and the long-standing tug-of-war between freedom and love.

Charlie: Fiancée, perhaps things aren't that complicated.

Charlie: I simply hope that lovers can make their purest vows in the place closest to the heavens.

From his current angle, Charlie looked like a deity looking down upon mortals; suddenly, his words felt much more persuasive.

Feeling the sudden tension in the atmosphere, I couldn't resist teasing him.

You: Charlie, tell me the truth then.

You: Standing up there on the stage, do you feel the power of "purity"?

Charlie: I...

Charlie paused, not having time to answer. Suddenly, I felt the plane jolt several times.

Fortunately, I gripped the chair, preventing myself from sliding off.

You: What’s happening?!

Charlie: Fiancée, don't be afraid—

Before Charlie could finish his sentence, the plane began to pitch even more violently.

The wooden chairs around us creaked and groaned, and the bells on the walls shivered, ringing out a desperate warning.

Charlie: Fiancée, it seems... we've encountered abnormal turbulence.

You: What do we do?!

Charlie: Wait a moment, I'll be right—ah—

Suddenly, there was another jolt. I heard a loud thud, and Charlie’s silhouette collapsed onto the prayer desk on the platform.

In an instant, the lights all went out, plunging everything into a boundless darkness.

Only the mica rose line in the center of the chapel emitted a slender glow in the chaos, leading straight ahead.

You: Charlie, are you okay?

Charlie: I... hiss, I'm fine.

The turbulence grew increasingly severe, and even Charlie’s voice was trembling.

Charlie: Fiancée, you don't need to worry. It's just... mm, it hurts a little bit, that's all.

Hearing his forced comfort only made my heart tighten further.

You: Really...

You: I clearly heard a very loud noise just now!

Charlie: I am the perfect Charlie, after all. These little things are nothing to me.

You: How is this a little thing...

The candlelight before me blurred into a haze, and I could barely stand.

Yet, supported by some unknown will, I slowly pushed myself up using the chair. Within the swaying cabin, I fumbled through the darkness toward Charlie.

Amidst the chaos, I saw Charlie’s violet eyes, unable to hide how moved he was.

Charlie: Fiancée, you...

Just as I reached the final step before the platform, I stumbled and fell straight toward the prayer desk.

Charlie: Careful!

Charlie opened his arms, and I fell directly into his embrace.

His familiar, warm body heat enveloped me instantly, giving me a strange sense of stability amidst the flood of fear.

You: Charlie...

I softly murmured his name. The echoes that were once clear in the chapel were now drowned in the mayhem—

Charlie: Fiancée, I'm here.

Charlie’s low voice sounded in my ear, replacing that echo.

In an instant, two intense rhythms—accident and love—thundered within my chest.

You: I'm... a bit more afraid now, because of you.

Charlie lowered his head, responding with an even firmer embrace.

Charlie: Fiancée, if this were the final moment, would you be willing?

His voice seemed to carry an irrepressible emotion. Suddenly, I realized his words from a few days ago might have been a premonition—I really might be "ascending to heaven."

I fought back my surging emotions and gave a heavy nod.

You: I do, Charlie.

I pressed my forehead gently against his cheek, pouring out the truest thoughts in my heart.

You: Charlie, although I had some misunderstandings about you at first and thought you were some fifty-year-old marriage-obsessed old man—

You: The truth is, I’ve never met anyone better than you.

You: If this were my final moment, I would definitely say I am willing.

You: Thank you for this past year.

Charlie: Fiancée, me too...

I felt Charlie sobbing, his body trembling against mine. The world seemed to be falling apart before my eyes.

Suddenly, a massive explosion sounded. The sky was lit up by a ball of light, making the room as bright as day—

I closed my eyes in despair.

Charlie: Fiancée?

Charlie’s gentle call sounded in my ear, and my consciousness slowly returned.

Charlie: Fiancée, open your eyes.

Opening my eyes, I met Charlie’s gaze.

The turbulence outside had gradually calmed, and the lights along the corners of the walls flickered on one by one.

When I looked back at Charlie, I found him wearing a relieved smile?!

You: Charlie, what is going on...

Just then, music started to play, and a crowd of people appeared.

Bystander A: The Phoenix meteor shower is truly extraordinary!

Bystander B: It just goes to show Young Master Zha's capability! To be able to land exactly at the calculated time to light up the chapel!

I finally realized that this had all been Charlie’s arrangement.

You: Charlie, you!

Charlie: Don't be angry, the wedding is about to begin.

Charlie: Chirp, chirp.

Charlie gave two whistles—Sherry and her boyfriend, the Starling, flew through the doors in response.

As they drew closer, I realized they each held a ring in their beaks.

Charlie: Thank you, both of you.

Charlie gently took the rings and held them in his hand.

Facing me, still shaken, Charlie showed ten times the usual tenderness and patience.

Charlie: I’m sorry, I only wanted to give you a surprise. Actually, the Phoenix meteor shower isn't dangerous; it’s just incredibly dazzling.

Charlie: I thought it would be quite fitting if it appeared at our "wedding."

Charlie: It’s just that this year’s conditions were a bit more unexpected than I anticipated.

He lowered his head meekly, patiently explaining everything to me, and the agitation in my heart was slowly soothed.

Charlie gazed deep into my eyes and opened his hand to me.

I saw the pair of rings in his hand. Unlike the magnificence I had imagined, the diamonds on the rings weren't as clear as I expected; instead, they contained slight impurities.

However, they were already sufficiently unique and beautiful.

Charlie: Fiancée, may I have your hand?

At that moment, a lingering piano melody began to play, and everyone in the chapel held their breath, waiting for what was to come.

I raised my right hand, resting it over Charlie’s as he held the rings.

Charlie: Fiancée, did you know?

Charlie: The last time the Phoenix meteor shower visited Earth was on the very day we met on that plane.

Charlie: And the embers that survived their journey through the scorching atmosphere are exactly what you’re holding in your hand right now.

I widened my eyes, looking at Charlie in utter disbelief.

You: You mean—

Charlie: That’s right. This pair of wedding rings is made from the very meteors that fell the day we met.

I stared blankly at Charlie, nearly melting into the depth of his gaze.

You: Charlie, you...

Charlie: Fiancée, you said "I do" just now, didn't you?

Charlie: Now, I’ll give you my answer as well.

Charlie gently supported my right hand.

That singular meteorite ring slid onto my ring finger, feeling as though the entire brilliant galaxy had been tied to my hand.

Charlie: Fiancée, I do.

The room erupted into thunderous applause that didn't stop for a long time.

In a private moment when no one was watching, I gave Charlie’s arm a little squeeze.

You: Charlie, do you remember how you described this chapel just a moment ago?

You: "A place close to the heavens, where lovers make their purest vows"...

You: Look at you. What part of this is "pure" now?

Charlie actually gave it some serious thought before he finally spoke.

Charlie: This was originally meant to be an opportunity for me to show off my romantic talent.

Charlie: But from the moment you ran toward me in the darkness, it seems my heart stopped being so pure as well.

Charlie: I’ve only just realized that our meeting was a game of Russian Roulette for me, too.

Charlie: But in this moment, I feel like my luck is incredibly good.

I thought about it for a moment, then tilted my head back to look into Charlie’s eyes.

You: No, Charlie. It isn't luck.

It’s love—but I didn't say those words out loud.

A thousand words were condensed into a single embrace above the mica rose line.

You: Charlie.

You: Charlie, Charlie...

I kept calling his name. If there were someone who could give me both love and the sky at once, then I had already repeated that answer countless times.

—

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.

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Part 2

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—

The bright midday sun filtered through the gaps in the leaves and passed through the glass display window, settling upon the white bridal veil.

The sheer fabric fluttered with the girl’s movements, reflecting fragments of golden light back toward nature.

From a distance, this was the beautiful scene that met my eyes.

You: It’s so beautiful...

Sariel: If I recall correctly, you were the one who designed that veil.

Sariel: It seems your habit of self-praise has reached new heights lately.

You: I wasn't talking about the veil, I meant the whole atmosphere... though the veil is beautiful too, of course!

I looked at Sariel expectantly, hoping for a nod of agreement.

Sariel: I wouldn't go as far as beautiful, but it is certainly decent.

Seemingly left with no choice under my persistent gaze, he gave a quiet hum of affirmation. His eyes drifted back to the display window, where a crowd was already lining up at the newly built booth to try on the veils.

Three months ago, Diary—a bridal brand under Warson—decided to organize a special garden event to celebrate its thirtieth anniversary.

The theme of the event was Nature, and the venue was set right here in this forest park. Not only did it provide free fittings and photoshoots for all participants, but it also featured several interactive zones.

Today was the first day of the event. I came here with Sariel, wanting to see the immediate reactions to this bridal collection.

Looking at the faces filled with happiness and longing around the booth, I couldn't help but feel a little bit proud.

You: Everyone seems to be quite satisfied.

Sariel: It is a free fitting, after all. Unless there is something truly unbearable, most people won't have any complaints.

You: Hmm, you have a point... Does that mean we came here for nothing today?

Sariel: Even if they don't say anything, you can see it with your own eyes.

Sariel: The same garment will present a different state and temperament depending on who is wearing it.

Sariel: It might look perfect on a draft, a mannequin, or a model.

Sariel: But when worn by more ordinary people, some of those meticulously carved details might actually become a flaw.

I mulled over Sariel's words while looking at the participants, all of whom had different figures and styles, and I nodded.

You: No wonder you agreed so quickly when I invited you to come to the site.

You: You had this outdoor lesson planned all along!

Sariel: That wasn't the only reason.

You: Was there something else?

I tilted my head in confusion. I watched as Sariel picked up an event guide from a nearby rack and tapped his finger lightly on the cover.

You: Could it be... there’s a specific activity you really want to join?

I was a bit surprised and immediately leaned in closer, curious to see what kind of activity could actually pique Sariel's interest.

Sariel: I am not like a certain silly bird.

Sariel: Someone who looks enthusiastic about every single thing they see during meetings with the marketing department.

You: That's because every activity looks so interesting. I want to try them all!

You: But wait... so you actually wanted to go do those activities with me—

Just then, the thin guidebook was tossed into my hands, cutting me off.

Sariel: We don't have time to try every single activity.

Sariel: We're going to the main exhibition area first. As for where to go after that, you still have time to think it over.

You: Mhm, Mhm!

I held the guidebook close to my chest and nodded to Sariel expectantly.

The main exhibition area was divided into two major zones: one featuring display windows and booths, and the other dedicated to the fitting area.

I could tell from a distance that it was lively, but as we drew closer, I truly understood the meaning of the phrase "a sea of people."

Fortunately, the staff members were keeping things orderly. Everyone seemed content to chat while admiring the garments, with no signs of impatience in sight.

We wove through the rows of display stands toward the fitting area, which also had a long queue winding through it.

Sariel and I didn't plan on going any further inside. We simply stood near the dressing rooms, observing the couples who were already dressed and heading off to take commemorative photos.

You: Hmm... the pleated design on the cuffs of that dress looks a bit impractical.

You: The angle of those white pumps is a little strange; it looks like it would be difficult to walk in them...

You: And the bowtie on that suit...

I continued to discuss my observations with Sariel as I scanned the crowd. Suddenly, a familiar wedding dress caught my eye.

My lips curved upward into a slight smile, and I gave Sariel’s sleeve a gentle tug.

You: Sariel, do you see that gown over there?

Sariel: Mm. The very first draft a certain someone handed in. After twelve revisions, it’s difficult to forget.

You: You don't have to go out of your way to emphasize the number...

I let out a soft, disgruntled huff and turned my gaze back to the crowd, spotting more and more familiar designs.

There were gowns by Mao Ge and Manman, a suit by Jiang Lai, and heels designed by Gao Cheng...

I was just pulling out my phone to take a few photos for the group chat when a staff member approached us.

Staff Member: Excuse me, would you two like to try on—wait, Y/N?

I froze for a moment, looking at the uniformed staff member. I realized it was Hana, a colleague from the marketing department.

Hana: Y/N, Director Qi? What are you two doing here? I thought only Mya from the Design Center was coming today.

Hana: She’s over at the display stands right now. There’s a media interview scheduled in an hour.

Hana: Are you two lost? I can show you the way.

You: Well, actually we...

Sariel: That won't be necessary. Let her handle the interview.

Sariel: We have other things to attend to.

I was still hesitating over how to explain things to Hana, but I didn't expect Sariel to speak up first.

He quietly took hold of my wrist, almost as if he were worried Hana might actually lead me away.

Hana: Other things?

Hana’s expression went blank for a split second.

Her gaze slowly drifted down to my wrist. It was as if she had a sudden epiphany, and her eyes widened in shock.

Hana: Are you two here to try on the wedding attire?!

You: Eh?!

The conversation was moving far too fast. Noticing Sariel’s brow furrow slightly out of the corner of my eye, I hurried to interrupt her.

You: No, no! We’re just here to see how the designs look in person, and then maybe try out some of the interactive activities!

Hana: Oh, I see! You’re going to participate in the activities once you've changed.

Hana: That makes sense. A lot of couples do that—it makes the memories more special.

You: I know, but...

Hana: Honestly, I always felt you two were close, but I didn't realize you were actually...

Hana: Don't worry, my lips are sealed! I won't tell a soul!

Hana: I’ll even help explain things to everyone when you’re getting fitted.

Hana: I’ll just say you’re here representing the Design Center to test the experience and offer feedback.

She seemed to be fueling her own imagination, wearing the kind of grin Manman usually gets when she's binge-watching dramas.

Caught up in her excitement, I had a fleeting thought of dragging Sariel off to get changed, but I quickly dismissed it.

The long lines, the changing, the makeup... every step was incredibly time-consuming. Even I found it a bit daunting, let alone Sariel.

But looking at Hana’s ecstatic face, I got the feeling that nothing I said now would get through to her.

I could only turn to look at the man beside me—the one my colleagues called the "Iron Tree." Surely Sariel would find this a massive bother and refuse immediately, right?

The "Iron Tree" himself, Sariel, maintained his usual cold expression, his gaze sweeping once over the display stands.

After a brief silence, he spoke up, his brow furrowing slightly.

Sariel: This line is too long.

You: ?

Was that really the point? I was stunned for a moment, and Hana seemed just as confused. But she was the first to snap out of it.

Hana: The line is quite long, but don't worry! As the designers, you naturally have priority.

Hana: Just a moment, I’ll get everything sorted for you right away!

With that, Hana hurried off with an excited spring in her step.

I finally found my voice and looked at Sariel with a mixture of confusion and surprise.

Sariel: Why are you looking at me?

You: Oh, nothing... I just didn't expect you to agree. I thought for sure you'd find it too much of a bother.

Sariel: It is a bother.

Sariel looked toward the crowd in the long queue, offering a rare moment of agreement.

You: It’s not too late to change your mind. Should I go tell Hana?

Sariel: I said it was a bother; I didn't say I regretted it.

Sariel: You, on the other hand, looked quite reluctant just now.

I instinctively shook my head like a rattle.

You: Not at all! I’m a hundred and ten percent on board!

Perhaps because he didn't expect such a strong reaction, Sariel’s eyes widened in surprise. He watched me for a moment before lowering his head slightly, a faint smile seemingly gracing his lips.

Sariel: I get it. You don't have to be so loud next time. I can hear you.

We only stood there for a short while before we spotted Hana squeezing her way back through the crowd.

She led us through the employee passage directly to the two dressing rooms at the very back.

You: Um, we haven't picked out which sets to change into yet—

Before I could even finish my sentence, Hana pulled out a set of attire that looked incredibly familiar to me.

Inspired by the tiered layers of a cake dress, it combined a playful, lively spirit with elegant poise, using embroidery and jacquard to define the intricate details of the veil and hem.

This was the wedding gown I had designed, "June Bride."

I had designed several different wedding dresses for this event, but "June Bride" was the only one for which I had also designed a matching suit.

Hana: I heard from my friends in the Design Center that every designer dreams of getting married in their own creations. I assume you're the same?

Hana leaned in and whispered into my ear, giving me a knowing wink.

Belatedly, I felt my cheeks begin to flush, but I couldn't help but nod my head.

You: Mhm. Thank you.

As I stepped into the fitting room with the wedding gown, I couldn't help but recall the moments when I was designing it.

According to the original plan, I wasn't supposed to design any menswear for this event.

But on that afternoon when I was revising the details of "June Bride" with Sariel, the sunlight was just so beautiful.

When I saw him lowering his head to brush his fingers against the gauze of the hem, the light catching the strands of his hair, a sudden urge to design a suit took hold of me.

In the past, whenever I started a draft, I always had a specific model in mind who would suit it best.

And while I was drawing that particular suit, the only person on my mind from start to finish was Sariel.

After struggling a bit to fix the veil in place, I took a deep breath and pushed open the fitting room door.

Sariel had already finished changing. Hearing the movement, he turned his head, and our gazes met.

In his pure white tailcoat, the only hint of color was a touch of ink-black at the lapels. It perfectly complemented his golden eyes and the sunlight reflecting within them, making it impossible to look away.

I stood there, dazed and motionless, only coming back to my senses when Sariel stepped right in front of me.

You: Sorry, I just—

Before I could finish, I felt a faint warmth brush against my temple.

Sariel: You managed to put your veil on crooked.

Sariel: Or did you quietly change the design while I wasn't looking?

You: How would that even be possible...

The chapel-length veil was romantic and elegant, full of ceremonial flair, but it was undeniably a bit cumbersome to wear and walk in.

Sariel helped me adjust the veil. His fingertips didn't pull away immediately; instead, they lightly brushed over the moon-white jacquard patterns.

Sariel: Stick to a fingertip-length one next time.

You: Yeah, I think this one is a bit too long, too.

After agreeing, I suddenly realized something felt off. Did Sariel just say "next time?"

The next time I wear a wedding dress... when exactly would that be?

The word wedding flashed through my mind, and I felt my face begin to heat up uncontrollably.

Fortunately, a knock at the door sounded. Sariel turned around, seemingly not noticing the flush creeping onto my cheeks.

Hana: Are you both ready? I’ll take you to the makeup room now.

You: Okay.

Although I had experience with photoshoots and runway shows before, I was exceptionally nervous today. As I sat in my seat, my gaze kept drifting toward Sariel beside me.

Makeup Artist: Oh my, are you that impatient? It will be finished in just a moment.

You: N—No, I'm not.

Reminded by the makeup artist's teasing smile, I quickly pulled my gaze back, though I couldn't stop myself from continuing to watch his reflection in the mirror with a flushed face.

Perhaps having overheard our conversation, Sariel also looked at me through the mirror.

His lips moved, and I hurriedly tried to make out what he was saying—

Sariel: What are you looking at, you silly bird.

I wrinkled my nose and shot back a retort, refusing to back down.

You: I wasn't looking...

I wasn't sure if it was just my imagination, but I thought I heard a very faint chuckle beside my ear.

Just as the makeup artist said, my hair and makeup were finished in no time.

The hallway was filled with couples who had finished changing and were taking selfies. I lifted the hem of my dress and navigated through the crowd with some difficulty in my high heels.

Sariel: Those heels are a bit too high. It isn't too late to go back and change into a different pair.

You: But these look better. Besides, a higher heel makes it less likely that I'll step on my veil.

I gave a muffled response and looked at Sariel with a hint of a pout, only to see a hand extended toward me.

Sariel: Then walk slower.

Sariel: Lest someone looks back on today and only remembers how embarrassed they were.

You: I won't...

Despite my protest, I naturally took hold of Sariel’s hand.

Because of our gloves, the sensation of our palms meeting wasn't entirely clear, but a steady warmth still radiated through our interlaced fingers.

We walked through the hallway hand-in-hand, looking no different from any of the other couples around us.

Now that we’ve changed into our formal attire, we can start enjoying the event just like everyone else. So, where should we go first?

Option 1: Go to the interactive game zone Option 2: Go to the garden photoshoot area Option 3: Go to the souvenir shop Option 4: Go to the lakeside Option 5: None of the above

—

Option 1: Go to the interactive game zone

You: Sariel, let's go check out the interactive game zone.

You: I saw in the guide earlier that we can even win a mystery prize for participating!

Full of anticipation, I arrived at the interactive game zone with Sariel.

Compared to the main exhibition area, there were fewer people here, so I finally didn't have to be so careful about holding up my hem and watching out for passersby.

You: There’s an introduction over here... Huh, you actually have to sign up to participate?

Sariel walked over to my side and looked at the activity rules on the poster with me.

The interactive session was divided into three segments: a Q&A session, a drawing session, and a compatibility challenge.

You: “Couples who successfully complete all three segments will receive a special mystery prize prepared by the organizers.”

I murmured the rules from the poster. Just then, a staff member noticed us and walked over.

Staff Member: Would you two like to sign up for our activity? You’ll get a prize just for participating.

As she spoke, she pointed toward a beautifully decorated booth in the distance. It was covered with various transparent gift boxes, but the so-called mystery prize was nowhere to be seen.

You: Excuse me, what is this “mystery prize”?

Staff Member: Sorry, I’m afraid I can't reveal that.

Staff Member: Why not try participating? You might just clear all the stages and win the prize for yourselves.

I didn't expect them to keep it such a secret; it only made me more curious.

I immediately turned to look at Sariel.

You: Can we sign up? Please?

Sariel: You don't even know what the prize is, yet you want to join just for the sake of it?

You: It’s because I don't know that I want it even more. I guess that’s the “charm of the unknown”?

Sariel: Just a reminder. Even if we participate, there is no guarantee we will win that specific prize.

You: We can still get something else, then. The staff member said everyone who joins gets a prize.

You: Besides, I have faith in you, Director Qi. These three little games will be a piece of cake for you!

Sariel: ...You always have a mountain of excuses.

Sariel didn't say anything else. He looked back at the game rules, his expression actually showing a hint of seriousness.

With the help of the staff, we finished our registration. After waiting for about ten minutes, the activity officially began.

There were more people participating than I expected. I counted roughly thirty couples, all of them looking quite enthusiastic.

The first stage was a Q&A competition. The host would ask questions about "weddings," and everyone had to write their answers on their own boards.

As long as you answered five questions correctly, you could move on to the next stage.

You: I’m suddenly getting a little nervous... they won't ask anything incredibly tricky, will they?

Sariel: Weren't you the one oozing confidence when we signed up? Why the nerves now?

Sariel: It’s the taking part that counts. They aren't going to disqualify the majority of people in the very first round.

You: Mm, you have a point...

And even if I really can't answer, I can always just copy yours. I silently finished the sentence in my head without saying it out loud.

Host: First question.

Host: Does everyone know which three words the bride and groom should say after the priest finishes his inquiry in a Western-style wedding?

You: That really is easy. You were right after all, Sariel.

Sariel: It’s only the first question. Don't get ahead of yourself.

Sariel: Just write.

I nodded and quickly scribbled the words "I do" (我愿意) on my board before turning to look at Sariel.

He had just finished as well. Three elegant, powerful words appeared on his board, each stroke looking exceptionally deliberate.

The host announced that time was up. The other contestants showed their answers one after another. After the staff confirmed them, they announced that everyone had answered correctly.

Host: Congratulations! Now, in the presence of the priest, please say the answers you wrote to one another!

My eyes widened in surprise. I didn't expect such an interaction to be set up right after the Q&A.

The crowd erupted into a stir. A priest appeared beside the host and nodded to us, requesting that we stand face-to-face and hold hands.

I thought I was already used to holding hands with him, but looking at Sariel’s face so close to mine—his downcast lashes—my heart couldn't help but start racing.

It felt... just like a real wedding.

Priest: To the bride: do you take this man to be your husband and enter into a covenant of marriage with him?

Priest: Through sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, or for any other reason.

Priest: To love him, care for him, respect him, accept him, and be faithful to him until the end of your days?

You: I... I do.

Perhaps because I was so nervous, my voice trembled slightly. My fingertips, held within Sariel's grasp, curled inward ever so slightly.

Sariel: You’re far too tense.

Sariel: When it comes to the real wedding, am I going to have to remind you to breathe, too?

You: Eh?

My heart skipped a beat. I looked up at him in a daze. Just then, the priest asked the groom the same question.

I gazed into those golden eyes. Sariel looked at me with an intensity more serious than any moment before.

Sariel: I do.

I thought his words would make me even more flustered, but strangely enough, I became calm instead.

Those two words were like a comfort, a confirmation telling me that there was no need to be nervous.

He would always be there. Forever.

The interactive segment ended, and the priest exited. The host asked a few more simple questions.

Things like which finger the wedding ring is usually worn on, or what color wedding dresses typically are.

Host: Everyone got the previous questions right. Now, the difficulty is about to ramp up.

Host: Question five: when did the tradition of "wearing a white wedding dress" start becoming popular?

As soon as the question was asked, the crowd started whispering. Everyone felt the difficulty had spiked too high.

The organizers likely realized this, so it wasn't an open-ended question but a multiple-choice one.

Since I had been buried in making wedding dresses recently, I had looked through a lot of related materials and had some memory of the history.

You: I think it was... the nineteenth century?

I looked at Sariel uncertainly, and he gave a slight nod.

Sariel: The mid-nineteenth century. To be more precise, 1840.

You: You remember it so clearly.

While marveling at him, I casually wrote the answer on the board. After a moment, a thought occurred to me, and I felt a bit curious.

You: Sariel, have you ever designed a wedding dress for someone before?

I knew he had been a designer for a very long time, and it was likely unavoidable that he’d design all sorts of attire throughout his long career.

But out of a tiny bit of selfishness, I still hoped Sariel’s answer would be "no."

However, Sariel nodded slightly.

Sariel: Twice.

You: I see... when was that?

Sariel: A long time ago.

Sariel: The first time... do you remember Vesi?

I nodded.

Sariel: Someone asked me to design a set of formal wear for his wedding back then.

Sariel: It was during the process of making that attire that I founded Vesi.

Sariel: You could say the brand was born because of those clothes.

You: Then it must have been a very important set of clothes. I’d love to see what they looked like.

Sariel didn't respond immediately. He lowered his eyes and remained silent for a long while before speaking again.

Sariel: That attire was never finished.

You: Why? Did something happen?

Sariel: The person who commissioned me met with an accident. The wedding was canceled.

Sariel: As for the second time, I was commissioned to make a wedding gown.

Sariel: By today’s standards, the fabric wasn't great and the design was simple. But the client loved it.

Sariel: Only, in the end, she wasn't able to marry the person she wanted to.

You: ......

Looking at Sariel's expression, I understood that there must be two very heavy stories behind those two garments.

I stopped prying and lowered my head slightly.

You: To be honest, I’ve been looking forward to this since I first heard about the Diary event.

You: I wanted to see what a wedding dress designed by you would actually look like.

You: I even thought that maybe I could wear a gown designed by you...

You: So when you told me you wouldn't be participating this time, I felt it was such a shame.

You: But thinking about it now, it’s actually okay.

I adjusted my veil and looked at Sariel with a smile.

You: After all, I’m a designer too. In the future, we can wear the formal wear I design, just like right now.

You: Besides, these clothes aren't just my hard work alone.

You: You gave me so much help; you could say it’s a piece we completed together, right?

I didn't want him to fall into heavy memories, so I said it on purpose.

Sariel looked at me, and his expression truly seemed to relax a lot.

Sariel: If we're counting it that way, then all your previous design drafts should have my name added to them.

You: An internationally renowned designer, the Design Director of Warson... why are you still fussing over something like this?

Sariel: You were the one who brought it up first.

The atmosphere between us seemed to finally return to its usual state. Just then, the answering time ended.

We successfully moved on to the next stage. After all ten questions were asked, only about half of the participants remained.

Host: The second stage is "Drawing." You and your partner need to draw your "Dream Wedding" together.

Host: Then, the guests on-site will vote. The five couples with the most votes will enter the final round.

You: Let’s start with a general scene.

Picking out a tube of blue paint from the box, I was about to paint a blue sky when I suddenly realized something and looked around.

You: Everyone is painting blue skies and white clouds. It doesn't feel very unique... How about we paint a sunset?

Sariel: I’ve never seen anyone start their wedding at dusk.

You: Other people are other people, and we are us. Don't you think a "Wedding under the Sunset" is exceptionally romantic?

Sariel thought about it for a moment. He didn't say yes or no, but simply found a tube of red paint and handed it to me.

The pale red sunset gradually took shape under my brush. Looking at the ground which was still blank white paper, I had a sudden spark of inspiration and dipped my brush in white paint.

Sariel: Are you drawing a white sea urchin?

You: It’s a night-blooming cereus! What even is a white sea urchin...

Though I didn't want to admit it, after Sariel said that, I also felt like my drawing looked a bit like a sea urchin.

Just as I was feeling a bout of frustration, I felt a sudden warmth pressing close behind me.

Sariel tucked my veil behind my ear. He stood by my side and raised his hand to grasp the brush in my hand.

Through the thin gloves, I could feel the warmth of his palm.

Stroke by stroke, he guided my movements until a white night-blooming cereus leaped off the paper.

Sariel: That is what a night-blooming cereus looks like.

Sariel: Haven't you seen them many times before?

You: Mm... even if I've seen them, it's still a bit difficult to just draw one perfectly on a whim.

I spoke casually, staring at the flower on the paper, wanting Sariel to draw another one for me as a demonstration.

You: Can you—

I couldn't finish my sentence because the moment I turned my head, the faint fragrance of night-blooming cereus filled my senses.

I didn't know when it had appeared, but a small night-blooming cereus was nestled in Sariel’s palm, swaying gently in the summer breeze.

Sariel: Can you remember it now? The way it looks.

I nodded and carefully took the flower from him, holding it as if I were cradling a hidden yet magnificent love.

Sariel and I sketched and colored together, and our "Dream Wedding" was finished in no time.

The soft glow of the sunset and the hills covered in night-blooming cereus complemented the fluid lines of our beautifully designed formal wear. It was exceptionally eye-catching among the sea of blue skies and white clouds, allowing us to smoothly advance to the final stage.

Host: The final stage will test your mutual compatibility.

Staff members moved two large display boards to the center of the venue. Each board was covered in postcards printed with various designs, including landscapes, people, and even cartoon characters.

Host: The bride and groom will each choose one postcard that they like best.

Host: Naturally, you will be separated during this process and are not allowed to communicate.

Host: If you choose the same theme, the challenge is a success!

You: There must be at least a hundred postcards here. This is too hard...

I looked at the board in front of me, at a total loss. I couldn't help but peek at Sariel by the opposite board; he had his eyes lowered, seemingly deep in thought.

You: What Sariel likes most... drinking tea? Or listening to crosstalk?

You: Ugh, there don't seem to be any postcards with those themes.

I knit my brows in frustration when suddenly, a splash of soft red caught the corner of my eye.

You: It's the sunset...

After hesitating for only a few seconds, I reached out and gripped that postcard tightly in my hand.

Soon, the selection time was over. I tucked my postcard into the envelope provided by the organizers and went back to stand with Sariel.

You: Sariel, what did you choose?

I looked at Sariel’s calm, expressionless face and swallowed nervously.

Sariel: See for yourself.

With that, he moved to hand me his envelope.

You: Wait, wait! I'm a little nervous. You... how about you look at mine first?

Sariel: Is there a difference?

Despite saying that, Sariel still took my envelope. Watching him open it, I couldn't resist asking a question.

You: Did you choose... the sunset?

He had already opened my envelope. The sunset on the postcard was half as fiery as a flame and half tinged with the gloom of approaching night.

Sariel didn't answer me directly. Instead, he immediately opened his own envelope.

A white honeysuckle flower was enveloped in the glow of the sunset, dyed a vivid crimson that echoed the clouds in the distant sky.

Sariel: Are you still nervous now?

You: ...That's wonderful! I knew you'd choose this too! Thank you, "Dream Wedding"!

My mood instantly shifted from anxious to ecstatic. I grabbed his hand, feeling so happy I almost wanted to jump for joy.

When the results were announced, I discovered that Sariel and I were the only ones who had successfully completed the challenge, which made me feel even better.

Staff Member: Congratulations to you both! This is your prize, the special edition "Wedding Dolls."

I took two small, adorable wedding dolls out of the gift box. They were the mascots for Diary, but they had been slightly customized to match the likenesses of Sariel and me.

In other words, they were one-of-a-kind in the entire world.

The thought alone sent a sweet ripple through my heart.

Staff Member: Next, you can take your postcards over there to participate in the "Time Post Office" activity.

Staff Member: You can mail a message to each other ten years in the future.

You: Mm, thank you!

Even after I sat down at the table and gripped my pen to write the postcard, I still couldn't contain my excitement. I hummed a little tune while looking at the two dolls on the table.

Sariel: You’re being far too dramatic. Is it really worth being this happy over?

You: We were the only ones to complete the challenge! And since it was so difficult, I don't think any amount of excitement is uncalled for!

As I spoke, I placed the two sunset postcards together on the table and nodded in satisfaction.

Sariel: What if I told you that the postcards we chose aren't actually the same theme?

You: Eh?

You: Aren't they both sunsets?

Sariel shook his head and pointed to the postcard he had chosen.

Sariel: This one is indeed a sunset. But the one you chose is a sunrise.

You: They look almost the same...

Sariel: There is a faint mist at sunrise, and the light is much softer.

I looked closer and realized that the one I had chosen was indeed enveloped in a thin mist, whereas the light on Sariel’s was more piercing.

You: But I remember there was only this one sunset image on the board...

Sariel: The organizers likely couldn't tell the difference themselves.

You: Well, our challenge was still a success, right? And hearing you explain it that way actually makes it feel like an even bigger coincidence.

Sariel: What do you mean?

You: Sunrise and sunset, over and over again in a cycle. Doesn't that mean we’ll spend every single day together from now on?

You: Just think of it as a blessing sent to us from the heavens.

A look of surprise crossed that usually indifferent face. Then, Sariel blinked slowly, a helpless smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

Sariel: ...There you go talking nonsense again.

You: Then let it be nonsense. As long as you’re willing to listen to it, that’s all that matters.

I smiled and picked up my pen, flipping the postcard over as I began to think about what to write.

Ten years from now... I wonder what we'll be like then, or what we'll be doing?

When I really thought about it, ten years didn't actually seem that long.

We’ll probably still both be designers, sitting together and bickering over the small things, just like we do now.

With that thought, I wrote down a single line.

"I hope that in the next ten years, we can continue to watch the sun rise and set together."

I looked up and found that Sariel had already finished writing as well.

Sariel: Are you done?

You: Yeah.

Sariel: Then let’s go. To the mailbox.

The Time Post Office activity didn't have a limit on participants, so there was a large crowd around the mailbox.

Worried about being separated by the throng, I was just about to call out to Sariel when he naturally took my hand in his.

As we stood in line waiting to drop off our letters, I couldn't suppress my curiosity and had to ask.

You: Sariel, what did you write?

Sariel: You will know in ten years.

Those words felt like a promise. I froze for a moment, then nodded with a smile.

You: Mm. Then I’ll wait ten years to find out.

You: Can we write them again in ten years? And then the ten years after that, and the ten years after that...

Sariel: Fine.

Before I knew it, the horizon had begun to glow with the colors of the sunset.

Sariel looked down at the postcard in his hand; the honeysuckle under the setting sun was enveloped in a soft, radiant luster.

That small white flower was just like the girl whose hand he held so tightly, swaying in the glimmering light, whispering softly to him.

She said that it didn't matter, for as long as one endured the long winter night, the sun would eventually rise.

He had walked in the darkness for far too long, but now, he had finally reached the dawn.

From now on, every day—through the endless cycle of sunrise and sunset—would be filled with the simple grace of ordinary happiness.

—

Option 2: Go to the garden photoshoot area

You: Sariel, let's go to the garden area.

You: I saw in the guide earlier that the flowers are blooming beautifully this season. It'll be a perfect spot for photos.

Sariel: Photos?

You: Of course! Since we've already changed into our formal wear, we should at least have something to remember it by.

I pretended not to notice the "not particularly interested" expression on Sariel’s face and pulled him toward the garden.

Once we arrived, I realized I wasn't the only one who had the idea to come here for photos. The organizers had even set up a dedicated photoshoot area complete with professional photographers.

You: There are so many people here. Let's head a bit further in.

We followed a small stone path all the way into the depths of the garden, until there was no one else in sight.

The air in the forest park was wonderful; even the soil smelled fragrant. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, feeling the gentle breeze brush past my ears.

You: This feels so good...

Sariel: So you walked all this way in high heels just to feel the wind?

I opened my eyes and found Sariel’s gaze resting on my heels, a hint of worry hidden in his eyes.

You: I'm fine, really. My feet don't hurt, so don't worry.

Sariel: ...I wasn't worried.

You: Mhm, I know!

Nodding along with a smile, I turned my attention back to the scenery around us.

You: Look, Sariel! The flowers over there are so pretty! Wait, why is there a tiny one next to them? Is it still growing?

Sariel looked where I was pointing. There were several round, purple flowers that looked like tiny hydrangeas.

Beside those "hydrangeas," there was a much smaller purple bud, nestling against the nearby leaves like a child.

Sariel: Those are two different flowers.

Sariel: The larger ones are Allium giganteum, and the smaller one is Nepeta—also known as catnip.

You: So that's what catnip looks like?

I walked over, smoothing out my hem as I knelt down to catch its scent. I could indeed smell a faint, minty fragrance.

You: I wonder if there are any kittens nearby. I’d love to see if it actually works...

I glanced around, and then a thought occurred to me. I turned to Sariel with a mischievous smile.

You: Hmm, it's a good thing they didn't plant any foxtail grass here.

I intended to tease him, but to my surprise, Sariel only froze for a second before blinking, looking completely unbothered.

Sariel: They can plant it if they want.

Sariel: It’s only you here, anyway.

Now it was my turn to be stunned. It took a good while for me to find my voice again.

You: Can I take that to mean... you feel safe because I’m here?

Sariel: ...Think whatever you like.

Sariel: Once words are spoken, the power of interpretation lies with the listener.

You: Fair point. And it just so happens that I’m an expert at interpreting Fox-speak!

Sariel: You...

He looked like he couldn't help but want to say something more, so I quickly pulled out my phone and pointed it at the Allium, pretending to be very busy taking a photo.

You: Let’s take a picture together, okay? To commemorate the first time we saw catnip!

Sariel: The phrase making a fuss over nothing must have been coined specifically with you in mind.

Despite his words, he still walked over to my side.

Sariel: How do you want to take it?

You: Just like this. Three, two, one—cheese!

I leaned my head close to Sariel’s, held the phone up high, and pressed the shutter button.

Compared to a professional photographer, the photo I took on my phone was definitely lacking, but that didn't dampen my spirits in the slightest.

I pulled Sariel along as we continued forward. Suddenly, a rustling sound came from behind us.

Were other people coming this way too?

I thought it was another couple coming to take photos, but when I turned around, I saw an elderly woman with silver hair.

She looked a bit lost, glancing around in all directions. Was she looking for someone?

I felt a bit worried seeing an elderly person out here alone, and Sariel’s brow furrowed slightly as well.

You: Let’s go check on her.

When we reached her, she was still blinking vacantly at the ground, so I called out to her softly.

You: Excuse me, ma'am, are you alright? Why are you out here all by yourself?

Old Woman: I’m fine, I’m just looking for the place where they try on wedding dresses. I wanted to help my granddaughter pick one out—

She looked up at me and suddenly froze, a look of joyful confusion crossing her face.

Old Woman: Oh, Yueyue! My dear granddaughter. What are you doing here?

Old Woman: When did you pick out your dress? My, it’s absolutely beautiful!

As she spoke, she stepped forward and took my hand, gesturing for me to twirl around. She likely wanted to see the details of the hem.

You: Um, I’m not actually your granddaughter...

Old Woman: Don't say such nonsense! You don't even recognize your own grandmother?

Old Woman: Oh? And this young man beside you... are you my granddaughter’s husband?

You: H—Husband?! No, that’s not it, we aren't in that kind of relationship...!

I shook my head and waved my hands frantically, my face flushing as I stumbled over that word.

Old Woman: You aren't? Then why are you wearing a wedding dress and a suit in the middle of the woods?

You: Uh, we...

For some reason, the way she phrased it sounded a bit strange, but I didn't know how to argue back. I could only look toward Sariel for help.

Sariel let out a quiet sigh, thought for a moment, and turned toward the elderly woman.

Sariel: What she means is, not just yet.

Old Woman: Right, right, I remember now. You haven't had the banquet yet, so it’s only natural she’s still shy about the title.

You: Sariel!

I jumped in surprise. Sariel reached out and caught my flustered hand, explaining in a low voice.

Sariel: Her being here alone means she must be lost.

Sariel: I’m just playing along for now so it's easier to lead her back to the staff.

You: ...Oh, I see.

I nodded, but I didn't feel the sense of relief I expected. Instead, there was a subtle, strange trace of disappointment.

Shaking it off, I focused my attention back on the woman.

You: Um, Grandma. Why don't we head back to the main exhibition area? It’s much more lively there. See, there's hardly anyone out here.

Old Woman: Oh, you’re right. Look at me, I’m getting so senile. I came looking for you all by myself and left your mother behind.

Old Woman: Come on, let's go find her.

So she hadn't come alone. Hearing this, I immediately looked at Sariel, and he gave a small nod.

Sariel: Let's go.

Back at the main exhibition area, I happened to spot Hana. I immediately explained the situation regarding the elderly woman.

Hana: I understand. We’ll take responsibility for helping her find her family.

She walked over to the woman and explained she was part of the staff. But the moment she mentioned leading her away to find her family, the woman's face fell.

Old Woman: What do you mean? My granddaughter is right here. We'll just wait for my daughter together. Why would I go with you?

Hana tried to persuade her a few more times, but to no avail. Watching with concern, I eventually tapped Hana on the shoulder.

You: It’s okay. Go look for her family. We’ll stay here and keep her company.

Hana: Thank you so much. We’ll be as quick as we can.

Sariel: Let's go sit and rest in the makeup room for a bit.

You: Okay.

I took the woman's hand, preparing to lead her over. Fortunately, she trusted me completely and listened to everything I said.

We sat down on the sofa in the makeup room to rest. We had barely settled in when the old woman spoke up.

Old Woman: Xiao Qi, you’re quite a thoughtful young man. You noticed I was getting a bit tired from standing and knew to bring us in here to rest.

You: Xiao Qi... Pfft.

It took me a second to process it before I burst out laughing. Sariel’s expression, on the other hand, looked a bit strained.

Sariel: What are you laughing at? Stop that.

You: Mhm, I... I’m not laughing, haha...

Old Woman: What are you two whispering about that's making you so happy?

Old Woman: Speaking of which, I haven't heard what kind of work Xiao Qi does. How much do you make in a month? Is it enough for her to spend?

This question was truly a bit too much for Sariel to handle. I quickly bit back a smile and moved to rescue him.

You: Grandma, I have my own salary. It’s plenty.

Old Woman: That’s not the same. Him spending money on you is his way of showing his devotion.

Old Woman: Xiao Qi, I’m asking you a question.

It was clear that "Xiao Qi" had never experienced this kind of interrogation before. With a dark expression, he finally spoke after a long silence.

Sariel: I am a designer. In a month, I earn...

I guessed that his concept of money was likely very faint; he certainly wasn't the type to sit around checking his pay stubs at the end of every month.

Sariel shot me a look. I felt like it was the first time I had ever seen the words help me written in his eyes.

Suppressing my laughter with effort, I began to explain.

You: Grandma, he actually isn't very sure himself, because he gives all his money to me every month.

Old Woman: Is that so? Well, you should have said so earlier! Not bad, not bad at all. This young man has the right mindset. He seems dependable!

You: Yeah, I think so too. Director Qi is very reliable.

I wasn't sure if it was my imagination, but Sariel’s body, which had just begun to relax, seemed to stiffen again for a split second.

Old Woman: So he's a Director, too? That really is quite impressive.

Old Woman: Sigh, tell me, when did you start dating? You didn't even give me a word of it; you had to wait until you were practically married to say anything.

A hint of loneliness seeped into the woman’s tone. She held my hand; her palm was a bit dry, yet very warm.

Looking into her aged but gentle eyes, I thought of my own grandmother and couldn't help but answer softly.

You: I was just so busy that it slipped my mind. I didn't keep it from you on purpose.

Old Woman: It’s alright. It’s not too late to tell me now. I’m all ears.

Old Woman: How did you two meet?

You: We...

I was just considering whether I should fabricate a simple, sweet story or something soul-stirring to make the old woman happy when Sariel spoke up.

Sariel: We crossed paths a long time ago, but we officially met at a competition.

I was a bit surprised that Sariel had adapted to this role of the grandson-in-law so quickly, but I followed his lead and nodded.

You: Mm. At that time, I was a contestant and he was a judge.

You: I was thinking of my grandmother when I made a hat, but he ended up scolding me for it.

Sariel: ...It wasn't a scolding. I simply hoped she would improve.

Sariel: Because she is a very talented designer with a true passion for her craft.

Is that how Sariel sees me? I listened silently, feeling a bit shy.

Old Woman: Then when did Xiao Qi start falling for my granddaughter? And what is it about her that you like?

My heart was thumping in my chest. I looked at Sariel. He didn't seem to have any intention of avoiding the question; instead, he seemed to be thinking about it seriously.

Sariel: Perhaps it was when she came to visit me while I was ill. Or maybe when she brought me a new hat she had made... or even earlier.

One by one, past events seemed to float before my eyes as Sariel spoke.

Sariel: As for what I like...

Sariel: I love everything about her.

I didn't know what to say. My heart felt full, overflowing with a certain warmth.

The old woman let out a satisfied smile, holding my hand and gesturing for Sariel to reach out as well.

She layered our hands together and gently patted the back of my hand.

Old Woman: My dear granddaughter, answer one last question for your grandmother.

You: Grandma...

I couldn't help but call out to her, nodding as my eyes grew a bit misty.

Old Woman: Is he good to you?

The woman’s gentle gaze reflected the figures of Sariel and me. I heard my own voice, steady and firm.

You: No one is better to me than him.

The old woman let out a satisfied sigh, gazing at Sariel with a smile.

Old Woman: I’m entrusting my granddaughter to you from now on.

Sariel: Mm.

It was a single, simple word, but he spoke it with exceptional sincerity and gravity.

Our overlapping palms pressed tightly together, and then our fingers interlaced.

I pursed my lips, squeezing that dry, warm hand with all my strength as I fought to keep my tears from falling.

Just then, the door clicked open.

Hana came running in, looking exhausted, accompanied by a middle-aged woman.

Hana: We found the daughter!

I hurriedly wiped the corners of my eyes and stood up from the sofa with Sariel, making room for the woman to sit beside the elderly lady.

Middle-aged Woman: Mom! How did you wander off the moment I looked away? You nearly scared me to death!

Old Woman: What's there to be scared of? I’ve been with my dear granddaughter this whole time. Nothing was going to happen.

Middle-aged Woman: Huh? What granddaughter?

You: Um, actually...

I explained the circumstances of how we met the old woman to her, and she nodded at us apologetically.

Middle-aged Woman: Sigh, actually... my daughter passed away in a car accident six months ago.

Middle-aged Woman: My mother has been so sick with grief that she sometimes grabs onto people and calls them her “dear granddaughter.”

Middle-aged Woman: And you just happened to be wearing a wedding dress... Around the time my daughter passed away, she was right in the middle of preparing for her own wedding.

You: ...So that’s what happened.

Middle-aged Woman: I’m truly sorry for causing you two so much trouble.

Middle-aged Woman: Alright, Mom, let's head back now.

Old Woman: Go back where! My granddaughter’s wedding is about to start. I have to stay until it’s over before I can leave!

Middle-aged Woman: There isn't any wedding. Stop causing these people more trouble.

Old Woman: They’re already dressed for it. If they aren't having a wedding, then what are they doing?

The two went back and forth in front of the sofa, neither able to convince the other. Seeing the situation reach a standstill, I thought for a moment and interrupted them.

You: We... we should be able to hold a simple “wedding.”

Everyone's eyes fixed on me. My cheeks flushed involuntarily, but I still looked toward Sariel, my eyes earnestly asking for his thoughts.

Sariel: I understand.

And so, busy preparations began for this sudden “wedding.”

Hana helped us find a spare exhibition hall to use as a venue, the makeup artist found a pair of plain bands, and the photographer was dragged in to temporarily "play" the priest.

There were other colleagues I didn’t recognize, and even tourists who had wandered in out of curiosity; they sat in the hall, offering us their blessings.

The wedding finally began. I stepped in time to the Wedding March, walking toward Sariel one pace at a time.

Even though we had been looking at each other face-to-face just minutes ago, catching his eye in this setting made my heart thud uncontrollably.

The "priest" stumbled through the words beside us. With every syllable, I felt my heartbeat quicken.

By the time I said "I do," my mind was a complete blank.

Sariel: Don’t be nervous.

Perhaps seeing right through me, Sariel offered a soft word of comfort. I nodded and took a few deep breaths, trying to steady myself.

The first part ended smoothly, and next came the vows.

Sariel looked at me, those familiar golden eyes reflecting an emotion quite different from his usual self.

Sariel: I solemnly swear to take you as my wife.

Sariel: From this day forward, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish you.

Sariel: Until death.

My heart felt a sharp, sudden squeeze.

In a daze, I thought back to the makeup room—to the question the old woman asked and my own answer.

The person standing before me is the one who treats me better than anyone else in this world. The person I like most, the person I love.

Closing my eyes, I spoke my own vows.

You: I solemnly swear to take you as my husband.

You: From this day forward, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health.

You: To love and to cherish you, until death.

Cheers and applause erupted from the audience. We brought out the rings; though they were just the simplest plain bands, they seemed to shine with a brilliant luster in my eyes.

Under the blessings of the crowd, we placed the rings on each other’s fingers. Finally, only one part of the wedding remained.

"Priest": Having witnessed your vows of mutual love, it is my great pleasure to pronounce you husband and wife.

"Priest": You may now kiss the bride.

Thump, thump.

I could hear my own heartbeat growing faster and faster as Sariel drew closer.

You: Are we... really... with so many people watching...

His hot breath brushed against my face. I heard Sariel’s voice, very close.

Sariel: You were the one who suggested holding this "wedding" with me.

You: I know, but... maybe just a kiss on the cheek?

With so many people around, I couldn't help but feel shy.

You: Um, or I’ll close my eyes, and then you can...

Just as I closed my eyes, intending to pretend I couldn't see everyone, I heard a soft sigh by my ear.

Then, a kiss landed on my cheek.

Cheers and applause filled the hall. I slowly opened my eyes, touched my cheek, and stared blankly at Sariel.

Sariel: The ceremony is over.

Sariel: Why are you looking at me like that?

I shook my head, still feeling a bit dazed.

...

Amidst the old woman’s parting words and her family’s thanks, we saw them off at the park entrance.

You: I didn't expect acting to be this exhausting. I want to rest for a bit...

After running around in high heels for so long, I was truly worn out.

On the way back to the main exhibition area, we passed through a small woods and spotted a swing. I sat down and looked up at the sky.

Sariel walked over to my side. He didn't say anything, simply gazing at the sky with me.

You: Sariel, why did you only... kiss my cheek earlier?

Sariel: Wasn't that what you asked me to do?

Sariel: You asked, and I agreed. It’s as simple as that.

I didn't expect an answer like that. A quiet flush crept over my face.

You: Then... will you agree to anything I say?

Sariel: You can try telling me first.

I tilted my head and thought for a moment before speaking slowly.

You: Actually, that "wedding" just now was a lot like the wedding I imagined.

You: Surrounded by family and friends.

You: Wearing a gown I designed myself, making our vows to the person I love while everyone cheers for us.

You: So I hope that our future... wedding... can be just like today.

I paused, but I forced myself to say the word "wedding" anyway. At least in this moment, I didn't want shyness to stop my true feelings from reaching him.

Still, I didn't quite dare to look directly at Sariel’s expression, so I kept my head down, pretending to look at the flowers on the ground.

Sariel: You mean exactly like today?

You: ...Is that not okay?

Sariel: It’s not that it isn't okay.

Sariel: But besides the people here today, you’ll probably want to invite that huge crowd of colleagues from Group A.

Stunned for a moment, I snapped my head up, unable to hide my joy.

You: Yes! Not just Group A, but other colleagues and friends too!

You: Ah, and of course we have to invite Qi She and Granny Huai.

Sariel: With that many people, today’s hall won't be nearly big enough.

You: Then we’ll find a bigger venue. Ideally in a field of flowers, by a lake, with the wind and the birds...

I went on and on, while Sariel just watched me quietly, a faint smile lingering in his eyes.

Sariel: And the ceremony? Will that be exactly the same too?

You: Eh? Is it not good?

Sariel: I think there are still parts of the ceremony we just had that could be improved.

He reached out to grasp the rope of the swing, meeting my gaze directly.

In the next second, a spark of warmth pressed against my lips.

The scent of unknown flowers drifted around us, only to be overtaken by the sandalwood scent so close at hand.

The crisp chirping of birds echoed from afar, mingled with the sound of our entwined breaths.

Sariel cupped my cheeks, his movements uncharacteristically firm, yet the kiss itself was so very tender.

I couldn't help but close my eyes.

I let him guide me, bit by bit, until he filled my breath, my mind, and my entire world.

I didn't know how much time had passed, but by the time our lips finally parted, breathing had become a struggle.

I panted softly, yet I still couldn't stop myself from reaching out to wrap my arms around Sariel’s neck.

Sariel: Hm?

Without a word of inquiry, he circled my waist with his arms and looked down at me.

You: I just want to look at you...

Sariel: You’ve already stared at me so many times. Haven't you had enough yet?

I shook my head and tilted my face up, gazing at him with an almost stubborn intensity.

I looked at Sariel—studying the shape of his eyes, the bridge of his nose, and the curve of his lips.

Just as he had always kept his eyes on me, I wanted to keep looking at him until the very end, until death.

I used to feel that Sariel was like a patch of mist or a drifting cloud. I feared that one day he might simply vanish, returning to a realm where he truly belonged.

That was exactly why I couldn't help but be so lively and noisy around him. I hoped the mundane warmth of this world could entice him to stay.

Only when I called his name, caught his scent, or held his hand could I be certain he was by my side.

But it seemed my way of thinking had been wrong from the very beginning.

Even if Sariel truly were a wisp of smoke or a passing cloud, he would stay by my side as long as I needed him.

You: Sariel, Sariel...

Sariel: Mm. I’m here.

I hugged him with every ounce of strength I had.

You: I hope you’ll stay by my side forever.

He didn't answer. Instead, he cupped my cheeks once more.

My heart, which had always felt so restless, was filled to the brim by a single kiss.

Because I knew that this was a promise, a vow, and the proof that he would walk with me until the end of time.

—

Option 3: Go to the souvenir shop

Actually, while I was flipping through the guidebook earlier, the page for the souvenir shop had already caught my eye.

As a bridal brand, Diary releases various commemorative merchandise during important holidays like brand anniversaries, Valentine's Day, and Qixi.

Their previous releases, such as necklaces and perfumes, were exquisitely crafted from the packaging to the products themselves, earning them widespread acclaim.

You: How about we head to the souvenir shop first?

Sariel: The souvenir shop? This is the "activity" you chose so carefully?

You: No, no! I just think we should check it out before we dive into the rest of the event.

You: Diary's commemorative items are all limited edition. If we go too late, they’ll be gone.

True to my expectations, by the time we reached the shop, quite a few customers were already inside picking out items.

You: Let’s hurry too!

Lifting my long hem, I was about to "dash" into the store when someone passed by us. I hurriedly shrunk back, terrified they might step on my skirt or veil.

Almost at the same moment, Sariel’s hand steadied my shoulder. Turning around, I was met with the worry in his eyes.

Sariel: Are you really that impatient?

Sariel: Who was it that promised me just now to walk slowly?

You: It’s because someone jumped out so suddenly... I definitely won't do it again, I promise.

Sariel put on an "I don't believe you" expression. I blinked, let go of my hem with one hand, and took hold of his.

You: Besides, you’re holding onto me anyway.

Sariel furrowed his brows slightly and moved his hand back to his side. His fingertips twitched, but he didn't let go.

Sariel: Fine. Let’s go.

Although the souvenir shop wasn't very large, the variety of merchandise was impressive.

You: They have perfume this year, too.

My attention was drawn to a small, exquisitely packaged bottle of perfume. The mint-green transparent glass featured vine reliefs, the top was adorned with tulle-cut flowers and leaves, and there was a lily of the valley outlined in silver thread.

It fit the "Nature" theme of this event perfectly; just looking at it made one feel as though they were standing in a secret garden.

Thinking of the plants and flowers Sariel kept in his courtyard, I couldn't help but lean in to study the scent.

You: A woody floral... Hm, the base note is sandalwood...?

The moment I murmured those words, a familiar fragrance filled my senses.

You: What do you think of this one?

I lightly sprayed a bit onto a scent strip and held it out to Sariel.

Sariel: The scent is simple—mostly woody notes.

Sariel: But it has good versatility. It wouldn't feel out of place regardless of who uses it or the occasion.

You: Wait, you said it’s mostly woody... can you tell exactly what notes are in there?

Sariel took another sniff and listed off several names. I hurriedly checked them against the description and found that he was entirely correct.

You: That’s amazing!

Sariel: I only stated what I smelled. This fragrance isn't particularly faint.

You: But most people would find it hard to identify every single note at once.

I twitched my nose and took a sniff, and a thought suddenly struck me.

You: Ah! Is it because you’re part of the Spirit clan so your sense of smell is so sharp? Foxes are canines after all...

Sariel: ......

Seeing Sariel’s expression become increasingly subtle, I quickly forced a smile and changed the subject.

You: Um, I think this smells wonderful. I’m going to go buy a bottle!

By the time the clerk wrapped the perfume and handed it to me, Sariel’s expression had returned to normal. We continued browsing the other items in the shop.

Suddenly, a flash of gold entered my vision. I walked over to the display case and found a pair of rings.

The bands were crafted to look like tangled vines, twisting together to create a delicate sense of balance. In the center was a small chrysoberyl cat's eye acting as the finishing touch.

Just like the golden eyes of the man beside me, it caught my attention instantly.

Clerk: Would you two like to try on the rings?

Just as I leaned in for a closer look, a smiling clerk spoke up.

She carefully took out the two rings. The men's ring was pushed toward me, while the women's was moved toward Sariel.

I thought the clerk had made a mistake and was about to point it out, but she gestured with a beaming smile.

Clerk: Since you two happen to be dressed in formal wear, why not put them on for each other?

Clerk: Think of it as a rehearsal for the ring exchange at a wedding?

"Wedding"—hearing that word made my heart race involuntarily, and a hint of anticipation bloomed within me.

Clearing my throat, I glanced at Sariel.

You: Should we try?

Although I tried to keep my tone casual and natural, my voice still sounded a bit tense when I spoke.

Sariel didn't answer. Just as I thought he was going to refuse, he reached out and took the women's ring.

Sariel: Give me your hand.

Nodding blankly, I hurriedly held out my left hand.

You: Just put it on my middle finger...

Before I could finish, I felt a cool sensation on my ring finger. In contrast, the fingertips he gently held radiated the warmth of Sariel’s palm.

Sariel: If it’s for a wedding, it should be worn here.

The ring on my finger, the heat of his hand, and his breath so close—it all made me feel a bit dazed.

It was as if we were truly at a wedding, exchanging rings that would belong to us forever.

That’s right, exchange! I need to hurry and put Sariel’s on too.

Snapping back to my senses, I scrambled to reach for the ring on the counter—

His Response 1 Sariel: You’re putting on a ring, not undoing a button.

Sariel: "Until death do us part"... is that what you want to hear?

I took the ring out and, without a second thought, placed it on the ring finger of Sariel’s left hand, just as he had done for me.

His fingers were long and slender with distinct joints; against the platinum band, his skin seemed even fairer. But it wasn't a pale white—it was a beautiful, soft white, like a cloud.

You: It’s on...

Sariel: Mm.

Our hands, one large and one small, were very close. Both ring fingers wore the same band, like a silent vow.

Clerk: They look wonderful on both of you, and the size is just right.

Clerk: Perhaps this is fate; otherwise, you wouldn't have spotted this pair at a single glance, would you?

The clerk smiled at us, her eyes full of sincere blessings.

Clerk: Then allow me to wish you a happy marriage in advance. I’m sure these two rings will accompany you through the rest of your lives.

You: Th—Thank you!

I felt a bit lightheaded from her words, my mind filled with terms like "newlyweds" and "the rest of our lives."

It wasn't until we bought the rings and left the counter that a realization hit me.

You: Wait a minute, Sariel. I just realized—did we just fall for some sales tactic?

You: I get the feeling she says that to everyone who tries on the rings.

Sariel: Does it matter? If it was a tactic, would you have chosen not to buy them?

I looked at the ring box in my hand, thought for a moment, and shook my head.

You: You’re right. Tactic or not, it doesn't matter.

You: Like you always say, it’s not bad to be a fool once in a while, right?

I smiled at him, seeking his agreement, only to see Sariel lower his eyes slightly.

Sariel: Don't get it twisted. You’re the only fool here.

Sariel: I bought it simply because I wanted to.

You: Eh?

You: Does that mean... you were planning to buy it for me all along?

Sariel: ...You can interpret it that way if you wish.

My heart skipped a beat. Looking into those familiar golden eyes, I was left with only one thought.

I wanted to believe what the clerk said—that from the moment we gave these rings to each other, we would surely walk through the long years of the rest of our lives together.

His Response 2 Sariel: If we added a necklace, it wouldn't be impossible to wear it around the neck.

Sariel: What? Is the cravat a bit crooked?

Perhaps because I was a bit nervous, I didn't have a firm grip on the ring.

Just as it was about to tumble onto the counter, a hand appeared just in time, catching it steadily in his palm.

Sariel: I’ll put it on myself.

You: Oh...

I felt a bit disappointed, but I didn't push it; after all, it was my own fault for being clumsy.

Sariel glanced at my hand, paused, and then slipped the ring onto the same position on his own hand.

Seeing that he had it on, I hurriedly stretched my left hand out in front of him so the two rings were side by side.

Sariel: What are you doing?

You: It makes it easier to admire them.

Clerk: Oh my, they really suit the both of you. Is the size a perfect fit as well?

As I looked them over, I felt the clerk was right—it really did look good on Sariel. Of course, mine was quite nice too.

Walking out of the souvenir shop clutching the ring box, I felt like I was in the best mood ever.

Sariel: Are you really that happy?

You: Yes! I’m so glad the size was right. It would have been such a shame if we couldn't buy them.

You: To be honest, I fell for them at first sight. This chrysoberyl in the middle is beautiful—it looks like your eyes.

His golden eyes widened slightly. Sariel looked away, and it was a moment before he spoke again.

Sariel: You must be the first person to buy a ring for a reason like that.

You: So what? As long as I'm happy, right?

As I spoke, I couldn't help but want to open the box to admire them again, when I suddenly noticed a short poem printed on the side.

You: "My heart, the bird of the wilderness."

You: "Has found its sky in your eyes."

Softly reciting the poem, I involuntarily looked toward Sariel.

In those familiar eyes, the summer sky was reflected—along with a smiling version of myself, dressed in a wedding gown.

—

Option 4: Go to the lakeside

You: You saw the cover of the guidebook just now, right? It was so beautiful. How about we go for a stroll by the lake?

The forest park where the event was being held spanned a massive area and was home to many famous scenic spots, with the central lake district being the most renowned of them all.

When we reached the lakeside, quite a few people had already arrived, drawn by its reputation. Some were taking photos, while others had ventured directly out onto the water in small boats.

My white veil caught the gentle breeze, and paired with the shimmering ripples of the lake, the scene looked exactly like an oil painting.

I felt a stir of excitement, but then remembering something, I quickly turned to Sariel.

You: Sariel, do you remember when we went to Kyoto and took a boat ride there, too?

Sariel: I remember.

Sariel: Besides the boat, I also remember someone getting incredibly worked up over nothing more than a squirrel.

You: Can't you remember the good things for once? Honestly...

Sariel: Whether good or bad, I remember it all.

As he spoke, he looked out across the lake with a nostalgic gaze, as if he were traveling back through a year of time to that day we spent drifting together.

You: It’s a rare opportunity. Why don't we go for another boat ride together?

Sariel: I’ve noticed you have a knack for suggesting the strangest things at the most inappropriate times.

You: What’s inappropriate about it?

You: This is a recommended activity right on the cover of the guidebook. Plus, so many people are doing it, which means it’s worth experiencing.

Sariel: My definition of inappropriate isn't referring to the activity itself; it’s what you’re wearing.

Sariel: Last time it was a kimono and geta, and this time it’s a wedding gown and high heels.

Sariel: I suppose next time you’ll be dragging me onto a boat in a formal evening gown.

You: Now that you mention it, you have a point... but today is a special occasion. Everyone else is out on the boats in their wedding dresses, so it’s fine.

You: As for the evening gown, if we have the chance next time, I wouldn't mind trying it. It sounds like fun, doesn't it?

I smiled at Sariel, imagining us in formal wear, drifting on a lake at night with the sky and the water both shimmering with stars.

Sariel didn't answer. He simply looked toward the mini-pier by the shore.

Sariel: If you want to go, then hurry up, before it’s completely swarming with people.

You: Yes, sir!

Soon, we boarded a small wooden boat. Because of my heels, the boarding process was a bit of a struggle, but luckily Sariel held my hand the entire time.

The lake surface was much cooler than the shore. The summer breeze carried the chill of the water, and I couldn't help but close my eyes and take a deep breath.

You: This feels so good—

Before I could finish my sentence, the wind suddenly shifted directions and sent my veil flying.

You: Whoa!

In an instant, my vision was consumed by a sea of white. I tried my best to straighten the veil, but since I couldn't see a thing, I didn't know where to start.

It looks like I'll have to ask Sariel for help...!

1. [Record your audio] Fail to call his name

Sariel: I hear you. Stop moving around for a second.

Hearing that familiar voice, I instinctively stopped my frantic fumbling and waited quietly for Sariel’s “rescue.”

In a moment, the white lace obscuring my vision was untangled and fell neatly back behind my head.

You: That scared me... Ah, the veil isn't ruined, is it?

Sariel: Rest assured, it’s fine for the time being.

You: What do you mean for the time being? You make it sound like it’s destined to be ruined later...

I gave Sariel a slightly mournful look while tenderly checking on the handiwork I had almost accidentally destroyed.

Sariel: If you keep looking everywhere but where you're going, it probably won't be long before it actually is ruined.

You: Then... should we head back to shore early?

Sariel: Mm. While we haven't drifted too far yet.

I looked at the other boaters in the distance with a bit of regret, silently resolving to use a shorter veil next time.

2. [Record your audio] Call his name

Sariel: Hold on, I’ll have it fixed in a second.

Even though I couldn't see, that familiar voice brought a wave of relief, and I stopped tugging blindly at the fabric.

Quickly, with Sariel’s help, the veil was smoothed back into place behind my head.

You: Thanks. I guess I’ll have to be more careful from now on...

Fortunately, after that brief interlude, the wind on the lake died down significantly.

Gradually, my attention returned to the beautiful scenery before us.

You: Sariel, did you see that fish? Is it a koi?

He glanced in the direction I was pointing and gave a soft hum of affirmation.

Sariel: So, are you planning to make a wish now?

You: Eh? How did you know?

Sariel: Have you forgotten who sent me a picture of a koi before, saying something like, “I heard this is very lucky lately, you’ll have good fortune if you forward it.”

You: But what if it actually brings good luck?

You: Why don't we both try making a wish on it and see whose wish comes true?

Sariel: I’m not quite at the point where I need to pin my hopes on a fish.

You: You have a point when you put it that way... Never mind, then.

Sariel looked at me with a hint of surprise.

Sariel: You’re giving up remarkably fast this time.

You: Because I can't really think of anything else to wish for right now.

You: At this very moment, I already feel so happy.

You: If I had to say I have a wish, it would just be for every day from now on to be exactly like today.

I watched the koi as it swam further away. After a brief silence, I heard Sariel’s voice beside me.

Sariel: It will come true.

The warmth of his hand, held tightly in mine, was something uniquely his. Even under the height of the summer sun, I found myself unwilling to let go.

3. [Record your audio] Call him dear, baby, hubby

Sariel: Don’t move yet. It’ll be ready in a second.

His familiar voice reached my ear, filled with soothing reassurance. I instinctively stopped my restless movements and sat obediently in place.

After a few seconds of rustling, my world finally returned to normal.

You: I almost couldn't breathe... Ah, the veil is okay, right?!

This was the wedding dress I had stayed up for several nights to finish; I didn't want it to be sacrificed like this. I immediately turned my head to inspect it.

Sariel: It’s not ruined. Did you think everyone was as clumsy as you?

You: You can't blame me for that. The wind started it.

I puffed out my cheeks at him. Sariel had his arms crossed and looked ready to say something, but right then, another gust of wind swept by.

The white veil fluttered again. I immediately reached out to catch it, but then a warning sounded in my ear.

Sariel: Careful.

Because my center of gravity had shifted, the wooden boat rocked unsteadily. I lost my balance and pitched forward all at once.

Fortunately, in the next second, a hug scented with sandalwood firmly enveloped me.

Sariel: You claim you aren't clumsy, yet here we are.

Sariel: Who are you going to blame this time? Still the wind?

You: I'm not blaming anyone. I just didn't sit firmly enough...

I sat back up sheepishly and straightened my veil.

Sariel stared at me for a while, let out a helpless sigh, and then moved from the opposite seat to sit right beside me.

You: What’s wrong? Do you want to see the view on this side too?

Sariel: The scenery is much the same.

Then why the sudden move? I was just about to ask when another breeze drifted by.

But this time, the wind was much lighter than before and didn't disturb my veil at all.

Instead, it was Sariel’s hair that fluttered in the summer wind, gleaming with a beautiful luster.

I realized what was happening in an instant. A gentle breeze seemed to blow through my heart as well, stirring up ripples that refused to fade.

—

Option 5: None of the above

The forest park itself was filled with sights worth seeing, and with all the various activities available, I was starting to have a bit of a hard time choosing.

You: The park is so huge, maybe we should just wander around? Ah, but I don't mean walking through the whole park, of course!

Sariel: I know what you meant. Let’s go.

Since we didn't have a fixed destination, we slowed our pace, enjoying the scenery as we strolled along.

In addition to us, there were many other couples on the path dressed in wedding attire, as well as ordinary tourists.

Blessings like “Happy Wedding” echoed endlessly around us, and every face was wearing a happy smile.

I stole a glance at Sariel beside me and couldn't help but let my own lips curve upward.

—

Night fell before we knew it, and today’s garden event finally came to a close.

Sariel and I changed back into our own clothes. Just as we stepped out of the main exhibition area, we spotted a photo wall where several visitors were looking through the pictures as if searching for something.

As I drew closer, I realized the wall was covered in Polaroid photos—likely taken by the staff. Each one featured a couple who had tried on the formal wear.

You: Sariel, it says here we can find our own photo and take it home as a keepsake.

You: Let’s look for ours, too.

I stood on my tip-toes, straining my neck as I searched, when I felt a hand gently steadying me by my waist.

Sariel: Just look at the ones in front of you. I’ll look for the ones higher up.

As he spoke, he stood behind me and raised his hand to begin his search.

The faint scent of sandalwood enveloped me, shielding me from the rest of the world.

Involuntarily, my heart began to race. I tried to calm myself for a moment before joining him in the search.

As my gaze swept over the wall, I realized that every photo seemed to tell a short story.

Some couples looked very young, perhaps in their early twenties, with sweet smiles suggesting they were about to enter the halls of marriage.

Others were white-haired but still smiled radiantly and happily, full of hope for the rest of their lives.

There were exceptions, of course—like a middle-aged couple who had apparently bickered while getting fitted. They stood with their backs to each other, yet couldn't resist stealing glances out of the corners of their eyes.

I admired the photos as I searched. Suddenly, two incredibly familiar figures appeared in the corner of my vision.

You: Sariel, look at that photo. Isn't that...

Before I could finish, Sariel had already leaned down slightly and retrieved the photo.

In the picture, I was holding my hem in one hand and Sariel’s hand in the other. My expression was a bit nervous, but more than anything, it was full of anticipation.

Standing beside me, Sariel was firmly holding my palm in return, waiting quietly. There was a rare tenderness in those golden eyes.

Even though it was clearly a candid shot, my heart softened the moment I saw it.

You: It’s a beautiful photo.

Sariel: Mm. It really is.

After a pause, I looked up at the other photos on the wall again, a hint of curiosity surfacing.

You: Sariel, what do you think we'll be like in the future?

You: Will we be like them—bickering occasionally but always staying by each other's side?

You: Or will we be like this photo, looking so harmonious and happy?

I pointed randomly at two of the photos. Sariel glanced at them and then shook his head.

Sariel: Neither.

Sariel: People are different, and so are the ways they express their love.

Sariel: We will only ever be ourselves. No matter how much time passes, we won't turn into anyone else.

Sariel: The way things are now... I think it’s perfect.

I blinked thoughtfully and looked at the visitors around us. I realized that while everyone looked happy, each person’s happiness had its own distinct flavor upon closer inspection.

There are so many ways to express love in this world—some are passionate, some are warm, and some are even subtle and hidden.

But no matter the expression, they are all wonderful, and they are all forms of happiness.

You: Yeah. I hope we can just keep going like this from now on.

The clear light of the moon spilled over us. Yet, strangely, I didn't find the moonlight cold at all.

Instead, it felt warmer and softer than any sunlight, shaping itself into the happiest memory deep within my heart.

————

PHONE CALL

Sariel: You forgot something again.

You: Eh? I did?

You: I was wondering why my folder felt a bit light... I thought I just had a lot of energy after my nap and felt stronger.

Sariel: It is just a stack of photos; they weren't heavy to begin with.

Sariel: Is this... you as a child?

You: Ah! Why are you looking at them! Don't look!

Sariel: If I didn't look, how would I know what it was or who it belonged to?

You: Okay... you have a point.

You: That being said, you’re amazing. How did you know those were mine at a single glance?

Sariel: It was easy to tell. Your eyes are crinkled with laughter just from holding a lollipop, exactly the same as they are now.

You: I wouldn't do that now. It would take at least a whole plate of snacks to get that reaction.

Sariel: It seems you have a fairly clear understanding of yourself.

You: Ordinary snacks won't do, either. It has to be the ones you make.

You: Wait for me for a bit, okay? I’m coming to get the photos right now.

Sariel: If you aren't in a hurry to use them, you can just get them this evening.

You: I can't. I need them for this afternoon.

Sariel: These photos?

You: Yeah, I have a discussion meeting this afternoon with the theme “memory,” and everyone has to bring childhood photos.

You: We’re going to swap them and brainstorm together~

Sariel: In other words, you brought those photos specifically for other people to see.

Sariel: Then why were you so nervous when I saw them just now?

You: You’re different...

Sariel: How so?

You: It’s just... I didn't want you to see me looking all silly and goofy as a kid.

Sariel: It doesn't matter. I’ve seen you looking plenty silly and goofy as an adult.

You: When you put it like that, I suddenly feel like this is so unfair.

You: I’m swapping photos with my other colleagues for a discussion, but you saw mine and I haven't seen yours.

You: No way, you have to show me your childhood photos too! Ah... but I guess there weren't cameras back then?

You: Then a painting or something would work. You must have something like that.

Sariel: There were some in the past, but they were lost a long time ago.

You: How could that be...

You: Does this mean I’ll never have a chance to see what you looked like as a child unless I travel back in time like in a TV show?

Sariel: Do you really want to see that badly?

You: Because I want to know more about you.

You: But if you really can't find anything, then never mind. Even if there isn't a picture, it would be nice if you told me some stories about when you were little.

Sariel: There you go talking to yourself again. I never agreed to tell you anything.

You: You already looked at my photos! For the sake of fairness, you absolutely have to tell me!

Sariel: I only looked at that one.

You: Then just tell me one thing! For example... what was your favorite thing to eat when you were a kid?

Sariel: ...I didn't have a favorite. If I had to choose, pears were decent.

Sariel: There was a pear tree in the courtyard where I lived as a child.

Sariel: So almost every year in July or August, I could eat pears. I got used to the taste.

You: You never told me that before! Next time, let's make some rock sugar pear soup together!

Sariel: After all that talk, it turns out you just wanted something to eat.

You: Not at all. I just want to relive the flavors of your childhood with you.

Sariel: I don't recall ever mentioning such a specific dish as “rock sugar pear soup.”

Sariel: But if you truly want to eat it, I suppose it’s not out of the question.

Sariel: In a little while, pears will be at their best. We can make it together then.

-

TEXT MESSAGE 1

Sariel: What is the meaning of the link you sent above? You: I want to invite you on a long-distance trip, of course!

Sariel: If I remember correctly, the next long holiday isn't until October. You: Even if there isn't a long break right now, we can still start planning! There are so many details to discuss. Sariel: Before we discuss details, could we perhaps settle on a destination first? Sariel: Sending me that many links... are you planning to take me Around the World in Eighty Days? You: I haven't decided on a specific place yet, but ideally, it should be a city with lots of delicious food and fun things to do! Sariel: I figured. Your requirements are as simple and straightforward as ever. Sariel: If all you're thinking about is eating and sightseeing, the fifth link you sent is decent. You: Eh? You actually clicked on all the links and read them? There were over a dozen... Sariel: If I didn't read them all, how would I know what kind of scheme you were hatching this time? Sariel (Voice MSG): Since you know it was a lot, send fewer next time. Sariel (Voice MSG): Or just come find me, and we can talk in person.

-

Option 3: Untie the necklace yourself

My fingers climbed along the length of the necklace until they brushed against a distinct indentation.

A scene from years ago suddenly flashed through my mind—the moment I first encountered this piece while I was living abroad, all on my own in that shop—

Shop Assistant: This is a piece created by the renowned jewelry designer, Miss Carla Noren, when she was only sixteen.

Shop Assistant: It features a unique, irregular clasp design. This special mechanism minimizes the difficulty of putting on a necklace by yourself.

Shop Assistant: It’s why this necklace was once voted the "most suitable accessory for singles." When you want to take it off or put it on, all you have to do is this—

The assistant pointed to that distinct indentation on the slender chain and gave it a light flick; the necklace unlatched instantly.

Shop Assistant: See? Isn't it convenient?

That afternoon, I used the very first bit of extra income I earned after crossing the ocean to buy a necklace that wasn't set with a single gemstone.

..

Click—the faint sound of the hidden clasp snapping open brought me back to reality.

You: It really is as convenient as ever.

I was just about to tuck the necklace back into my bag when the sounds of the rehearsal suddenly drifted in from outside.

Bang—the sound of celebratory fireworks splashed a long-lost liveliness into the quiet early summer afternoon. It gave me such a start that my hand shook, and before I knew it, the necklace had slipped through my fingers.

I hurriedly kicked off my heels, gathered up my skirt, and crouched down to search everywhere. In my frantic state, I hardly noticed the footsteps behind me.

??: I’ve finally found you.

A broad shadow fell over mine, and I was suddenly lifted up by the waist.

Today, an exceptionally potent fragrance of fougère marked every corner of my vision with Charlie’s name.

Charlie: My dear lady, the wedding is about to begin. Why are you still crouching on the floor pretending to be a radish?

I wiggled a few times, only to realize there was no escaping the restraint of those arms. So, I gave up the struggle and let Charlie carry me.

You: ...My necklace is gone.

Charlie: A necklace? Which one?

You: One I bought back when I was a student.

Charlie: I know the one. The one with the indented clasp.

You: You actually remember it!

Startled by Charlie’s incredible memory, I blinked and looked back at him in disbelief.

Charlie: Mmhmm. It’s a small matter.

Charlie: Leave it to me. I’ll make sure it’s returned to you in its original condition once the ceremony is over.

You: Really? Promise you won't try to fool me with a duplicate...

Even though I had no idea how Charlie planned to launch a "devil-style" search, hearing his confident reply made me want to jump for joy.

I would have jumped, too—if I weren't currently being held by the waist. Unfortunately, I forgot that part.

As I kicked out instinctively, I suddenly felt Charlie lose his footing behind me.

Charlie: Ah—

Both Charlie and I lost our balance, toppling backward onto the sofa.

I could feel the firm lines of the man beneath me as we were pressed tightly together. My cheeks flushed hot, and I tried to scramble up immediately.

Charlie: Wait, don't move.

With a sweep of his long arm, Charlie pulled me right back into his embrace.

You: You... let me up first.

Charlie: No.

Charlie grumbled his refusal. I was just about to protest when I heard a sharp crack, and something golden flashed before my eyes.

Charlie: Fiancée, you’ve played with my button so much you actually popped it...

My eyes caught the glint of the golden button sitting in the corner, and I was immediately hit with a wave of guilt.

You: Charlie, I’ll sew it back on for you.

His Response 1 Charlie: It’s a relief that the only thing you managed to break was a button.

I helped Charlie sew the button back on. Although it was a bit loose due to the time constraint, it at least looked presentable enough for the occasion.

Before heading out, I glanced back at the button on his suit.

Charlie: Don't obsess over it too much. It actually looks quite good.

You: It's okay, you don't have to comfort me.

I patted his chest as a gesture of reassurance. Creak—the button loosened another turn.

You: Ugh, I really...

Charlie: Actually, there’s one more way to save the day.

You: What is it? At this point, I’m willing to do anything except sewing.

Charlie: Give me your hand.

Confused, I placed my hand in his.

Charlie’s fingers, lightly calloused, slipped gently between mine until our fingers were fully interlaced.

You: And then?

Charlie: Just like this. Congratulations, you've succeeded.

Seeing the confusion in my eyes, the corners of Charlie’s mouth curled into a smile.

Charlie: As long as we hold hands like this, naturally, no one will notice the button on my suit.

I realized what he was doing a second later and burst out laughing.

Charlie: Feeling relaxed now?

Charlie: It’s about that time. We should go.

...

Charlie held my hand, leading me from the lobby of the lounge out into the bright sunshine.

Our joined hands rested gently against his heart.

Charlie: I will always keep you right here.

The warm breeze carried the scent of sun-drenched grass, and a hot air balloon was already waiting for us in the distance under the scorching sun.

His Response 2 Charlie: Fiancée... are you testing me?

Charlie: Those hour-long daily core workouts have certainly paid off.

Feeling guilty, I picked up the button and tried to sew it back on, but I couldn't find where it had come from.

You: Charlie, are you sure this button actually fell off your suit?

Charlie closed his eyes in contemplation, only looking up after a long silence.

Charlie: No, it seems to be... it’s a button from my trousers.

An awkward silence spread through the air as we stood there, speechless.

Just as I was about to break the silence, a staff member rushed in—

Staff Member: Mr. Zha, Miss Y/N. So this is where you were.

Staff Member: Please follow me quickly, or you’ll miss the scheduled time for the shoot.

Charlie: ...Alright.

Charlie stood up. Seeing how embarrassed he looked, I took the initiative to step in front of him.

You: Charlie, let me lead you this time.

I discreetly stayed in front of him, shielding him as we finished the entire photo session for the ceremony.

Among everyone who attended, a story began to circulate about how the "Zha couple" were so sweet and inseparable that they spent the whole time locked in a passionate embrace.

—

Option 4: Search belongings for a compact mirror

After a while, the strand of hair was still tangled. It was only then that I remembered I had a compact mirror in my bag.

You: I should have thought of this sooner.

I quickly pulled out the compact and set it on the vanity. The reflection from both mirrors gave me a clear view of my hairline.

With a few quick movements, I teased the hair free, unlatched the necklace, and placed it safely in its storage box.

As I held the small mirror, watching the ring of light dance tirelessly around its edge, a sense of joy bubbled up within me. Suddenly, a familiar face appeared in the center of that circle of light—

Charlie: Fiancée.

I turned my head. Sure enough, Charlie was leaning against the doorframe with a smirk.

Charlie: No wonder you didn't respond when I called... it turns out you were so captivated by your own beauty that you couldn't pull yourself away.

You: I was not.

Charlie: Mmhmm, really? Then let me check.

Charlie walked over and leaned down to adjust the mirror, until the round surface captured both of our reflections perfectly.

Charlie: Look, fiancée.

Charlie: Has the mirror told you who the most handsome man in the world is?

Charlie: Go ahead, say his name.

1. [Record your audio] Fail to call his name

Charlie didn't seem to get the answer he wanted, and he set the mirror down with a look of feigned disappointment.

Charlie: Truly no other answer?

You: There is one, but I’m a little too embarrassed to say it out loud.

I waved Charlie over, signaling for him to come closer.

Once he leaned down, I cupped my hands and pressed them against his ear.

You: My answer is—

At his most focused and sensitive moment, I mischievously swallowed the final words and blew a soft puff of air against his ear.

Charlie covered his reddening ear, looking at me in utter disbelief.

Charlie: Fiancée, you...

You: Is that not a good answer?

Charlie: No, it’s perfect.

Charlie laughed and wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me into his embrace.

Some things don't really need to be answered, because the response has been written in our hearts all along.

2. [Record your audio] Call his name

Hearing my reply, the corners of Charlie’s mouth curled into that familiar smile.

Charlie: Mm. I like that answer very much.

At that moment, the intermittent sounds of the orchestra’s rehearsal drifted through the window.

In about thirty minutes, Charlie and I would be walking across the sun-drenched lawn, stepping to the rhythm of the music as we passed through the floral arches.

I couldn't help but start imagining the scene—

You: Charlie, how do you want me to address you later?

You: Dr. Zha, Fiancé, or...?

He lowered his head in thought for a moment, then finally looked up and met my eyes with a serious expression.

Charlie: My name.

Charlie: I want you to call me Charlie at the wedding—my full name.

Charlie: Because I also want to call you by yours—Y/N.

Charlie: Not as someone’s fiancée, or someone’s cutie, or someone’s Mrs. Zha.

You: Mm, I understand.

You: I feel the same way, Charlie.

I softly spoke the name Charlie; the way the syllables bounced between my lips and teeth sounded exceptionally beautiful.

You: Charlie.

I said it once more.

In the days to come, I would be thinking of it countless times.

3. [Record your audio] Call him dear, baby, hubby, Fiancé, etc.

Charlie arched his brow, clearly very satisfied with my answer.

Charlie: Then I have one follow-up question.

Charlie: Mirror, mirror, who is the most beautiful fiancée in the world?

As he spoke, Charlie turned the mirror back toward me.

Charlie: Oh, it turns out it’s you.

You: So, right now, the two of us are officially the most beautiful and the most handsome people?

Charlie: Indeed, that makes perfect sense.

Charlie: Love can make a person blind, but I trust my own eyes.

You: Wait a second, let me double-check.

I tilted my head and looked into his eyes, which remained clear and bright, like violets melting into a curved lake.

You: Not bad. You’ve successfully convinced me.

He laughed openly, and I naturally didn't feel any embarrassment, accepting his praise with peace of mind.

With a deep gaze, he watched me in the mirror, as if his eyes were tracing the very outline of my face.

Slowly, Charlie moved even closer—so close that our faces were almost touching. We could feel the heat pulsing beneath each other's skin, yet we both remained silent in mutual understanding.

Charlie: Everyone says that when two people are together for a long time, they start to look more and more alike.

Charlie: What do you think about us?

I tilted my head and looked at Charlie in the mirror. Charlie looked back at me through the reflection as well. Perhaps some subtle change had already taken place by fate, though it was hard to put into words.

You: There’s no change in our appearance, but maybe our magnetic fields have shifted.

Charlie: A shift in magnetic fields... mm, a wonderful analogy.

Charlie murmured the words to himself, a smile appearing on his lips.

Suddenly, his fingertip poked my right cheek.

Charlie: This spot used to be the North Pole, but now it’s become the South Pole.

You: And what about you?

Charlie: I’ve always been the North Pole.

I laughed and poked his face in return, once on the left and once on the right.

You: What about you then? Is your North Pole on the left or the right?

Charlie: Neither.

Under my confused gaze, Charlie’s warm breath suddenly drew close—

Against the right cheek he had marked as the South Pole, Charlie left a "North Pole" kiss.

The electromagnetics of it all are actually quite complex. But between Charlie and me, there is perhaps a kind of kinetic instinct—just as the flow of love is an eternal theorem of this world.

—

Option 5: None of the above

The war between my hair and the necklace felt like a game of cards where far too much was left to chance.

One moment they were hopelessly inseparable, and the next, a winner might suddenly emerge. So, facing a stalemate like this, I decided not to force the issue any further.

You: If all else fails, I can just have the stylist help me sort it out later.

Just as I stepped out of the dressing room, a tall figure in a white suit pushed the door open and waved at me.

Charlie: Fiancée, let’s head out now.

You: Coming!

I'd leave future troubles for my future self to worry about. For now, my only task was to hurry up and enjoy every bit of this wedding experience.

—

The orchestral music reached its final movement as the sun dipped below the mountain ridge.

Everything had finally settled. The manor, now devoid of notes and cheers, was quiet enough to hear the steady whisper of the summer night breeze.

I sat before the vanity while Charlie stood behind me, helping me take off my accessories one by one. I felt like a girl from a fairytale returning home from a ball, slowly shedding her radiance to return to her everyday self.

Charlie: Just one last earring on the left side.

You: I’ll do it myself.

I reached up to take it off, but Charlie’s hand had already found my earlobe with practiced ease.

He quietly massaged the aching lobe before removing the final bit of sparkling jewelry. I took the earring from him, my fingers tracing the facets of the diamond.

Charlie: What is it? Sad to let it go?

Charlie: Fiancée, you haven't been so moved by today’s perfect ceremony that you've had a sudden whim to actually marry me, have you?

You: Pfft, I never said that.

Charlie: Mm, that’s good. After all, now isn't exactly the optimal time.

Hearing such a response, I couldn't help but feel curious, peeking at him through the vanity mirror.

You: If preparing such a grand ceremony doesn't count as the "optimal time," then when is?

Charlie adjusted the hair on my forehead in the mirror, thinking for a few seconds.

Charlie: For me, the more casual the moment, the better.

Charlie: People think far too solemnly of marriage. Clearly, love is the true lifelong commitment; getting married is nothing more than a point in time.

Charlie: So, if I were to choose an optimal moment... it could be some grand, passionate night—

Charlie: Or it could be a morning of soy milk and tea eggs, or perhaps a dusk after finishing overtime work.

Charlie: As long as I wish it, any day on the calendar is the optimal time.

You: Mm, that sounds very much like your style.

Charlie: Mmhmm, of course.

Charlie’s understanding of things was just like the impression he’d long left in my heart—willful enough, romantic enough, and full of imagination.

You: By the way, Charlie, where are the rings we just took off?

Charlie: Right here.

Charlie opened his hand, and the two rings lay in his palm.

I picked up the feminine band, examining it closely against the light of the vintage wall lamp. With just a slight tilt, the diffraction of light shifted subtly.

You: Charlie, you said this is a type of meteorite, right?

Charlie: Exactly. Do you find it a bit strange? Why it isn't some variety of expensive gemstone this time?

You: ...Yes, I have been a little confused. I don't mean to say that a meteorite isn't lovely, of course.

Charlie: I understand. Every stone has its own story.

Charlie: Compared to silently enduring beneath the Earth's crust, I think I prefer the story of the meteorite—

Charlie: Before I fell, I burned for you.

You: ...Burned for you.

I chewed on those words, and it felt as though something was being ignited in my own heart—between me and the man before me, we were destined for an encounter that could never be frozen.

As for what the future holds, there is no way to know, but from this moment on, I am willing to burn for you.

Charlie toyed with the rings in his palm. They spun a turn and a half around their center of gravity before slowly coming to a stop.

Charlie: Fiancée, these were prepared for the wedding.

Charlie: Now that the ceremony is over, you may dispose of them however you wish.

I looked up at Charlie, slightly shocked.

You: You don't want to keep them as a memento?

Charlie: I do. But I have another idea—what if we just left the rings here?

You: Here? You mean leaving them at this public wedding venue...

Charlie: Mm, exactly. They are meteorites, after all.

In an instant, I understood what he meant—they were meteorites. Unlike other jewels, they didn't need to be sealed away in a safe every moment.

They could be exposed to the sunlight and the gaze of others for generations, existing in the world with a proud yet natural posture, serving as proof of their own existence.

I stood up abruptly, clutching the ring that had once been an object from beyond the heavens.

You: But a cleaning lady might pick it up and throw it straight into the trash as a cheap imitation.

You: If that happened, would you feel like your feelings weren't cherished?

Charlie shook his head, looking instead into my eyes.

Charlie: But it could also be excavated a hundred years from now, coexisting with this manor as a piece of history and culture.

You: By then, it wouldn't just be history; it would be a witness to our "love," wouldn't it?

Charlie: Exactly. Fiancée, you completely understand my train of thought.

At this moment, the emotional resonance felt like it had poured endless courage into my heart. I looked at the vintage wall lamp nearby and fell into thought.

After a while, I opened my palm toward Charlie, staring at the ring along with him.

You: Charlie, I’ve decided how to handle it.

Charlie: What do you want to do?

You: Since this meteorite arrived here by burning—

You: Then why not let it continue its mission?

With that, I swung my arm, and the ring flew from my palm in a perfect arc. The tongues of fire inside the distant wall lamp leaped up, taking in this brave meteorite that had once traversed the atmosphere.

I brushed my hands together, signaling that the job was done. Charlie smirked, immediately catching my meaning.

Charlie: Alright, then I’m joining you.

The other ring sprang up quickly, falling sharply into the flames of the wall lamp.

Half a minute later, the fire twisted and swayed, as if there were no trace that it had ever been disturbed.

Watching the flames rise and fall, I knew that from this moment on, it wasn't just these two rings that would share their fate together.

All the festivities had ended, and Charlie was driving me home. The sudden shift from a magnificent gala to the dim interior of a car made it feel as though the world had fallen silent for centuries.

Inside the quiet space, Charlie took the initiative to break the silence.

Charlie: Want to listen to some music?

With the press of a button, a melodic jazz track began to flow through the car. The magnetic quality of the male vocals seemed to recount complex, unspeakable emotions.

You: I feel like I've heard this song somewhere before.

Charlie: It was that time I ran into you at the bar and brought you home.

Charlie rested his hand on the steering wheel, unable to stop himself from looking down with a low chuckle.

Charlie: Back then, you told me I had good taste.

You: Really...

I furrowed my brows, desperately trying to find the answer within the fragments of my memory.

I remembered that we were like water and oil at the time, and I had gotten dead drunk right then and there—I couldn't believe I would have offered such a friendly compliment.

Charlie: I never remember things incorrectly, so it is an absolute fact.

You: Fine. I was drunk anyway, so it’s just as well if those fuzzy memories get overwritten.

The music of days past permeated the air between us. I gazed out the window, quietly reaching my hand toward the gear shift beside me.

A warm sensation sat just before my fingertips. My fingers climbed over Charlie’s knuckles as they rested on the shifter, one by one, until they hooked into the soft curve of his hand.

With our hands clasped, a silent, hidden bridge was built within the cabin.

A familiar hour of the night, a familiar jazz tune—yet everything was constantly pulling the two of us into an even closer bond.

The sedan turned into the street in front of my house, where few people ever passed by. I stepped out of the car alone and said my goodbyes to Charlie.

Charlie: Wait, you forgot your things.

Thud—Charlie stepped out of the car with something in his hand and quickly made his way around to me.

Charlie: The necklace. I’ve been keeping it safe for you ever since you took it off.

The fine silver chain lay quietly in his palm, bathed in the thick glow of the streetlights.

I didn't take the necklace. Instead, I looked up into Charlie’s eyes.

You: Charlie, could you put it on for me?

He nodded, and the necklace swung in an arc from his fingertips as he leaned in close.

He fumbled for the clasp, his fingertips brushing ghost-like against the back of my neck. Snap—the necklace was fastened gently behind me.

Charlie: There, all done.

Charlie was just about to pull away when I felt the cool summer night air rush into the space between us. A sudden wave of reluctance hit me, and I wrapped my arms around his waist before he could leave.

You: Not yet. Just a little longer.

Charlie froze for a second. It took another two seconds for him to finally react, and he laughed as he rubbed the back of my head.

Charlie: Alright, I’ll wait. I’ve been waiting here for a long time anyway.

A silent street, cool moonlight, and the warmth of holding the person I love.

It felt as though a brand-new era of time had been unlocked. And he, starting from that initial SOS, had truly become the Super Outstandingly Sweet Charlie.

Our story felt as though it had been seasoned by the moonlight for ages, yet also as if it were only just beginning.

————

PHONE CALL

Charlie: Fiancée, I had a bit of a realization today.

You: A realization? What happened...

Charlie: While I was doing rounds today, I happened to help a high school senior with a math problem...

You: Wait, you actually still remember high school math?!

Charlie: I told you long ago, my powers of comprehension, memory, and calculation are not to be underestimated.

Charlie: Of course, that’s not the point. The point is, I realized a profound truth about love today from some simple mathematical theories.

You: I see. Then could Dr. Zha tutor me a bit as well? I want to learn too.

Charlie: Of course, no problem.

Charlie: Now, class, do you remember the primary definition of an ellipse?

You: I... don't think I remember it very well. Sorry, Professor Zha...

Charlie: It’s quite alright. Professor Zha is very patient.

Charlie: Ahem. The primary definition of an ellipse—for any point on an ellipse, the sum of its distances to the two foci is constant.

Charlie: In other words, the trajectory of the ellipse...

You: I get it! The trajectory of an ellipse is formed around two fixed foci.

Charlie: Not bad. Answering before I've even finished; how gratifying.

Charlie: So, can you feel the similarity between an elliptical trajectory and us now?

You: You mean, we are the two fixed foci?

Charlie: Exactly. Once, the world was a circle with me at the origin.

Charlie: But ever since you appeared, the stories happening around the two of us have formed the most romantic ellipse.

Charlie: And we have both maintained our original positions, just like eternally fixed foci.

Charlie: We haven't forced ourselves to change for the other, whether in the past or the future.

You: Wow, that sounds so romantic.

You: Sometimes far, sometimes near, yet never leaving.

Charlie: Fiancée, when you say "never leaving," are you referring to the ellipse, or to us?

You: Hmm, maybe both.

You: The world is full of these sorts of philosophical unities, after all.

Charlie: As expected of my fiancée. Learning to apply one principle to three others; you'll be graduating in no time.

You: Graduating? No way...

You: I still have so many things to learn from Professor Zha! Or are you saying you're no longer willing to teach?

Charlie: I am always willing. As long as you are, too.

-

TEXT MESSAGE 1

Charlie: I have an announcement to make. You: Is it... about our wedding? Charlie: Unfortunately, not this time—right now, I only want to help my fiancée solve her problem with staying up late. Charlie: (PS. But if my fiancée insists, I can put the "wedding ceremony" on the agenda immediately.) You: Charlie, you already sent me bedding before... is there really another way this time? Charlie: Bedding only changes the environment. While it certainly has an effect, it’s not obvious enough. Charlie: Now, I want to approach this from a psychological perspective and utilize the "magnet effect." With the company of a perfect member of the opposite sex like myself, you will surely have more motivation to fall asleep. You: Charlie, I... don't have any plans to move in together yet! Charlie: That’s perfect, because I don't have those plans for the time being, either. Charlie: However, even if we can't be in the "same place," the "same time" is quite easy to manage. Charlie: I call this perfect plan "Sweet Sleep." You: Alright then, let's start right now! Charlie (Voice MSG): Hey, why didn't you praise me for how cleverly I used that space? "Sweet Sleep"—slumbering separately, yet the sweetness remains undiminished. Charlie (Voice MSG): But since my fiancée has already issued the invitation, I won't say any more. Charlie: I suggest we put this plan into action immediately. Goodnight, my dear fiancée.

TEXT MESSAGE 2

Charlie: I have an announcement to make. You: Is it... about our wedding? Charlie: Unfortunately, not this time—right now, I only want to help my fiancée solve her problem with staying up late. Charlie: (PS. But if my fiancée insists, I can put the "wedding ceremony" on the agenda immediately.) You: Do you have a good idea? I can't fall asleep at all until the middle of the night... Charlie: Have you ever heard of the "magnet effect"? Charlie: When you spend time with a certain member of the opposite sex, a special kind of stimulating force is generated, which has a positive impact on your life. Charlie: If I accompany my fiancée as she sleeps, wouldn't you have more motivation to go to bed early? You: That makes a lot of sense! How do you want to do it? Charlie: Objective conditions are limited at the moment; we cannot fall asleep in the same place. Charlie: But at the very least, we can enter a state of sleep at the same time. Charlie: This is the "Sweet Sleep" plan I’ve prepared for you. You: You used that space very cleverly! Charlie (Voice MSG): You noticed! Using a space to represent the perfectly measured sleeping distance between us—simple, yet full of meaning. Charlie (Voice MSG): With a plan that even has such an exquisite name, it would be hard not to carry it out, wouldn't it? Charlie: So, call upon me to your heart's content, my dear fiancée.

-

TIMELINE POST Charlie: Ran into a patient at the clinic today who claimed to be a 15-year-old senior citizen. You: People have been calling me "Auntie" for three years now. Charlie's Response: People have also been calling me "Uncle" for three years. It seems that in the eyes of outsiders, we really are a perfect match.

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