Shen Yi put away their luggage as Lu Xinyi got excited, looking out of the window. After their short flight, they had to travel via train to reach the small town where the Grace Palace was located. The train hadn’t moved yet since there were still passengers boarding. They were in a private compartment with a king-size bed, a small bathroom, and a sitting area.
“How long is the train ride?” Lu Xinyi asked as she watched the passengers run towards the entrance of the train before it closes.
“About two to three hours. Why? You’re already bored?” Shen Yi sat beside her near the window, leaning his back at the soft cushions and opening a book.
She grinned before pulling one of his arms so she could settle next to him. Her husband arched a brow and dropped an arm around her while she leaned her head on his shoulder.
“No, this is my first time visiting this province. I’m excited to see the museums and shrines they have in here. Didn’t Grammie say there’s an upcoming autumn festival?”
Shen Yi chuckled, “We have enough time to explore everything, wife. Be patient.”
—
Shen Huang sat on his chair, holding a taxation book, thinking if his mother made the right decision in giving the restaurant to his eldest son and daughter-in-law. He couldn’t actually say that he doubted that the two could really revive the restaurant, but his mother’s motive behind these was too confusing for him.
He looked at his mother who was reading today’s newspaper while his youngest son was eating his favorite meat buns, checking emails through his laptop.
“It’s unfair, Dad. Why’s he always getting a vacation while I’m here stuck dating a mouse and a keyboard?” Shen Xue complained.
“They should have arrived by now,”—Shen Huang checked the clock—”and before you complain, don’t forget that your brother hasn’t taken any leave for the past year. He deserves it.”
“And I deserve all this paperwork?” Shen Xue muttered to himself because he knew it’s pointless to argue. His brother’s sudden vacation was decided by Grammie herself.
“Xue, if you want a month-long honeymoon, too, marry someone. I’ll give you something to enjoy.”
“No thanks, Grammie. I don’t need a woman who’ll betray me or use me. My right hand keeps me company and will never betray me.”
As soon as Shen Xue said those words, a thick book came flying towards his head, hitting him hard.
“Oww…” He bowed down and consoled his head. “What’s that for, Dad?!”
—
Shen Yi and Lu Xinyi arrived at the station. Lu Xinyi walked beside her husband who pulled the trolley of their luggage. Giving him a side glance, Lu Xinyi tried to suppress a smile threatening to spread on her lips. Shen Yi, in his usual disguise again, looked normal but still eye-catching.
“We’re just in time before the festival begins on Friday. Do you want to try wearing a Hanfu for the festival? There will be food stalls and games you might want to try.” ρꪖꪕᦔꪖꪕꪫꪣꫀꪶ
“That sounds like a good idea,” Lu Xinyi clasped her hands behind her back and looked around. “Wow…” she whispered, clearly impressed by the scenery outside the train station. It wasn’t suffocating unlike the city, and one can take in a deep breath without worrying about the air.
Shen Yi settled their luggage at the trunk of the taxi that was waiting for them.
“Xinxin, get inside. We still have enough time to get lunch before we check the restaurant.”
No one welcomed them just as he requested. He wanted to spend this whole month only with his wife.
“At the Peach Blossom Resort, please.” Lu Xinyi told the driver when Shen Yi sat beside her at the backseat.
The short car ride gave Lu Xinyi some time to appreciate the perspective of this rural area. The scenery truly captivated her, and it amused Shen Yi how easy it was to please his wife.
When they arrived at the resort, the couple was welcomed by the manager named Qian Luoyang. He was a short old man with an almost bald head and squinty eyes. Peach Blossom Resort was also owned by the Shen family; it was easy for Madam Shen to prepare everything beforehand.
“Master Yi! It’s been a while since you visited Peach Blossom! Who’s this young woman with you? Are you here for business?” Qian Luoyang asked excitedly. The Shen family’s Young Master checked each property and asset of the Shen Group, and it was the third time the old man met Shen Yi.
“No, not purely for business.” Shen Yi corrected him. “We’re also here for our honeymoon.”
Qian Luoyang gaped. His mouth opened and closed like a fish that had been pulled out of the water.
“Honeymoon?” He then looked at Lu Xinyi who was still busy checking the details of the resort.
“Yes. That woman is my wife. You’ll give her the proper respect she deserves.”
“Of course, Master Yi.”
They were led to their private quarters and given enough time to settle at the new place.
“What were you talking about earlier?” Lu Xinyi asked as she stepped out of the shower. She remembered seeing Shen Yi talking with the old man while she was sightseeing.
“Nothing much. He just asked if we’re here for business or pleasure.” Shen Yi replied nonchalantly as he waited for his wife to dry her hair.
“W-what?” Lu Xinyi stopped on her tracks, her towel still on her wet hair. “We’re going to be busy with the restaurant. Stop giving him ideas!”
“I wasn’t lying anyway. We’re gonna get pretty busy with our pleasure, dear.” He stood up from his seat to answer his ringing phone.
“Shen Yi, one day, I’ll get even with you!”
“You can punish me later in bed.” Shen Yi winked leaving his wife flustered and embarrassed.
“Shen Yi!”
“Xinxin, it’s not time to scream my name yet!”
