บท 30: A warm farewell.

As the breakfast dishes were cleared away, the warmth of family and delicious food lingered in the air. Xie Ming couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment, having successfully impressed her in-laws with her culinary skills. She caught Jin Liwei's eye across the table, his proud smile making her heart flutter.

"Xie Ming, dear," Mother Jin said, reaching out to grasp Xie Ming's hand. "You must teach me some of your recipes. I've never seen Jin Liang so excited about Chinese food before!"

Xie Ming laughed softly, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Please, Mother. You're embarrassing me. I simply cooked a few simple dishes and nothing else. I am still lacking in terms of culinary skills compared to you, especially when it comes to Western dishes. You need to teach me some of Liwei's favorite dishes."

Mother Jin's eyes sparkled with delight at Xie Ming's humble response. "Perfect then. I will teach you western cuisine, while you give me your secrets of authentic Chinese cooking. Even though I make these dishes almost daily, they still don't taste close to yours."

Seeing Xie Ming and his mother getting along so well, a content smile appeared on Jin Liwei's lips. It was a sight that he had yearned to look forward to for years.

…..

After breakfast, as the family began to disperse, Jin Liwei approached Xie Ming, placing a gentle hand on her back. "Shall we head upstairs to pack?" he murmured, his breath warm against her ear.

Xie Ming nodded, trying to ignore the shiver that ran down her spine at his proximity. The couple excused themselves and made their way to their bedroom.

Once inside, Jin Liwei closed the door behind them, his eyes darkening as he gazed at Xie Ming. "You were incredible down there," he said, stepping closer. "I've never seen my family so impressed."

Xie Ming felt her cheeks flush. "I'm glad they enjoyed it. I just wanted to show my appreciation. Mother gave me the heirloom of the family and trusted me so much and accepted me as a family member. How could I not do anything for them?"

Jin Liwei reached out, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "You've shown more than appreciation. You've won them over completely. Now my mother loves you more than me and my brother. It's as if we have become extras for her."

Hearing this, Xie Ming's heart warmed and she chuckled to see him complaining like a child. Before she could respond, Jin Liwei's lips were on hers, soft yet insistent. The sudden kiss caught her off guard, but she melted into it, her hands finding their way to his broad shoulders.

The passion from their newly established connection reignited, and Xie Ming found herself pressed against the wall, Jin Liwei's body a solid warmth against her own. His hands traced the curve of her waist, sending shivers down her spine.

"Jin Liwei," she gasped as he trailed heated kisses down her neck, his breath hot against her skin. "We can't... not here...that's not right."

Jin Liwei pulled back slightly, his eyes dark with desire. "You're right," he said, his voice low and husky. "But when we get home..." His gaze traveled over her flushed face, lingering on her parted lips.

Xie Ming's cheeks burned crimson at his bold words, her heart racing. "No! Don't try to fool me. You're forgetting our deal." She pushed him away, her hands trembling slightly, and retreated to the bathroom to hide from this lustful monster and cool down her heated face and tingling, slightly swollen lips.

….

They separated reluctantly, both taking a moment to compose themselves before packing their overnight bags. Xie Ming was surprised by how much they now had to take back. They had arrived empty-handed, but Mother Jin's generosity had changed that.

Carefully, Xie Ming packed the new clothes, jewelry, and most importantly, the family heirloom she had been given. Each item represented her growing acceptance into the Jin family, making her heart swell with gratitude.

As Xie Ming folded her clothes, she couldn't help but marvel at how quickly her life had changed. From an Empress in ancient times to a modern woman falling in love with her husband – it was almost too much to comprehend.

"What are you thinking about?" Jin Liwei asked, noticing her contemplative expression.

Xie Ming smiled softly. "Just... how different everything is now. How much has changed."

Jin Liwei approached her, taking her hands in his. "Change can be good, Xie Ming. I feel like I'm finally getting to know the real you."

Xie Ming's heart clenched at his words. If only he knew how true that statement was. "I'm glad," she said, squeezing his hands. "I want you to know me, Jin Liwei. All of me."

Their eyes met, a moment of understanding passing between them. Jin Liwei leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "We have all the time in the world for that," he murmured.

….

With their bags packed, they made their way downstairs to bid farewell to the family. Mother Jin embraced Xie Ming warmly, whispering, "Come back soon, dear. You're always welcome here."

As they were about to leave, Jin Liang approached Xie Ming with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Hey, Xie Ming," he said, grinning broadly. "Keep coming here to cook more dishes for me. Or better yet, just give me a call when you're cooking at home. I wouldn't mind dropping by for a taste of your delicious food."

Before Xie Ming could formulate a response, Jin Liwei stepped between them, his expression stern. "Jin Liang, don't you dare pester my wife with your nonsense. You're not invited to our place, understood?"

"Hmph! Why are you being so domineering and stingy?" Jin Liang protested. "It's just food, brother."

After exchanging final goodbyes with everyone, the couple left the mansion, heading back to their villa.