Chapter 22: We're going home.

As they finished their meal, Jin Liwei wiped his mouth with a napkin, savoring the last flavors of the delicious breakfast. He turned to Xie Ming with a gentle smile, his eyes still bright with appreciation for her cooking. "After breakfast, get ready. We're going home."

Xie Ming looked at him, confusion evident in her eyes. The warmth she had felt from everyone's enjoyment of her cooking was suddenly replaced by uncertainty. "Where?" she asked, her brow furrowing slightly.

Understanding dawned on Jin Liwei's face. "Ah, I should have been clearer. We're going to meet my parents and grandfather. They've been eager to see you since you woke up."

The news hit Xie Ming like a sudden gust of wind. Her mind raced, trying to process this unexpected development. 'It's so soon,' she thought, a hint of panic rising in her chest. 'I haven't even fully adjusted to this new life yet, and now I have to meet my in-laws?'

Desperately, she began sifting through her newly acquired memories, searching for information about Jin Liwei's family. Images and impressions flashed through her mind:

Jin Liwei's grandfather, the formidable patriarch of the Jin family. His aura was intimidating, yet he had a soft spot for Xie Ming. She was, after all, his choice – the granddaughter of his best friend, Li Qiang. A wave of sadness washed over her as she recalled the circumstances of her arranged marriage, a dying man's wish to secure his granddaughter's future.

Her thoughts turned to Jin Liwei's parents. His mother, Jin Yue, was a vision of elegance and beauty. Xie Ming remembered the warmth she had once shown her, treating her like a daughter. But those memories were tainted by flashes of her own rudeness, her inability to socialize, pushing away the very people who tried to welcome her.

Jin Liwei's father, Jin Hui, was more of a mystery. His name evoked a sense of awe and fear – the master of the business world who had elevated the Jin Group to new heights. Yet, try as she might, Xie Ming couldn't conjure a clear image of his face.

Lost in her thoughts, Xie Ming didn't notice Jin Liwei studying her, concern etched on his features. "Relax," he said softly, reaching out to touch her hand. "You don't need to overthink this. If you're not comfortable going, we don't have to."

Xie Ming shook her head quickly. "No, no. I want to go," she insisted, though her voice betrayed her nervousness. "It's just... there are some things I can't remember clearly. I don't want to embarrass you in front of your parents."

Jin Liwei's expression softened, a gentle chuckle escaping his lips. "Don't worry," he reassured her. "They know about your condition. And trust me, my family isn't as dramatic as you might think." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Now, don't think too much. Let's get ready, okay?"

Xie Ming nodded, forcing a smile. "Okay," she agreed, though inside, her emotions were a whirlwind of anticipation and anxiety.

As they rose from the table, Xie Ming couldn't help but reflect on the irony of her situation. In her past life as Zhao Ming, she had longed for acceptance from her in-laws. Now, she found herself with a family seemingly ready to welcome her, yet she was the one holding back, unsure of how to navigate this new dynamic.

She followed Jin Liwei upstairs to prepare for their visit, her mind still swirling with fragments of memories and the weight of expectations. As she chose an outfit, her hands trembling slightly, she made a silent vow to herself: This time, she would try her best to be the daughter-in-law they deserved. She would embrace this second chance, not just for herself, but for the Xie Ming whose life she now lived.

With a deep breath, Xie Ming steeled herself for the day ahead. Whatever challenges awaited her at the Jin family home, she would face them with grace and determination. After all, she had already lived two lives – surely, she could handle one family visit.

As they prepared to leave, Jin Liwei noticed the resolve in Xie Ming's eyes. He smiled to himself, feeling a surge of admiration for her courage. Whatever happened today, he silently promised to be by her side, supporting her every step of the way.