Chapter 60:

Upon hearing this, Tan Mo fell silent for a few seconds before tightening her expression and speaking up, “The graduation ceremony is in two weeks.”

“Mm.”

“The school assigned me another task again.”

“And then?”

“I’m going to get busy. I’ll move back to campus next week.”

Xie Qichen finally caught on and chuckled lowly, “Avoiding me?”

Tan Mo puffed her cheeks in a haughty manner, unwilling to give someone the satisfaction, “No, I’m just following a normal schedule. Besides, I only have a few more days left on campus, and I want to spend more time with my roommates.”

His tone softened and became more serious, “You’re telling the truth?”

Considering his question, Tan Mo thought carefully, “I guess I just want to go back and spend a few days with them?”

Of course, Xie Qichen wished the girl could stay by his side every day, but he also respected her social circle, “Alright, it’s your decision.”

Her eyes lit up, “Really?”

He smiled helplessly, “Would I say no?”

Her lips curled into a smile, “Then I’ll ask them.”

Thinking that graduation was only a week away, Tan Mo indeed wanted to cherish her final days at school.

That evening, back at Jiayu Tiancheng, Tan Mo asked her roommates in their group chat. The other two roommates, who were interning elsewhere, said they had taken leave recently to return to campus to handle graduation procedures and pack their belongings. Since they hadn’t seen each other in a long time, Chang Yue was also urging them to come back. So Tan Mo decided to return as well.

The other three teased with smiles: [Jasmine, did your husband approve your return?]

After Tan Mo and Xie Qichen publicly revealed their relationship online, their classmates at school found out. The three roommates had confronted Tan Mo, slightly “angry” about why she hadn’t told the truth. Later, Xie Qichen, with his high emotional intelligence, took Tan Mo to treat the three to a meal and explained everything, after which they understood.

Tan Mo noticed that Xie Qichen was particularly skilled at winning people’s hearts—not only with Ji Shu, but with all of Tan Mo’s friends, each of whom developed a favorable impression of him after meeting him.

Looking at the man who was about to head to his study to work, Tan Mo couldn’t help smiling:

[Even if he disagrees, it doesn’t matter. I make my own decisions.]

The next evening, Tan Mo packed a few daily necessities. Xie Qichen dropped her off at campus. When they reached the small park beside the dormitory building where no one else was passing by, she looked at him longingly:

“Xie Qichen, I have to go to the dorm now. I’m going to miss you so much. I’m so sad, waaah.”

Helplessly lowering his gaze, the man reached out and pinched her cheek, “You can’t even hide your smile.”

Unable to contain her smile, Tan Mo buried herself in his arms, “I really will miss you, but it’s okay. I’ll be back next week.”

Her chin was lifted, and Xie Qichen’s lingering, reluctant gaze fell on her, “When you sleep in the dorm tonight, don’t let the air conditioner blow directly on you. No staying up late, no playing with your phone too much, and make sure to eat well, understand? I’ve finally managed to put a little weight on you. If I find you’ve lost weight when you come back next week, you’ll be in big trouble.”

Softly, she asked him, “What am I supposed to do?”

He cast a cold glance at her, his voice low and husky, “Nothing much. Just behave yourself and wait to come back and get screwed.”

Tan Mo’s cheeks flushed bright red, “Pervert…”

They lingered close for a while, and finally, with reluctance, Xie Qichen pulled her into his arms again, kissing her until her lips were slightly swollen before letting her go upstairs.

Tan Mo had initially felt a little sad, but when she returned to the dorm and saw her three roommates, she instantly forgot everything else.

Sadness, missing him—none of that existed anymore. She was going to indulge in the final moments of campus life!

For the next few days, the four roommates moved back into the dorm together, resuming their lazy routine of eating together, gaming together, and chatting in bed. Sometimes they would go out together to buy barbecues and fruits or hang out at nearby bars and bookstores, just like when they first entered university.

Life was carefree and pleasant. Tan Mo felt like a little mouse thrown back into a rice barrel—she was incredibly happy every day.

But while she was enjoying herself, the situation on the other side was completely different—

Ever since he let the girl return to campus, Xie Qichen felt like she had completely forgotten about him. Her schedule was packed every day, even busier than his. She only had time to video call him in the evenings, and often after the video started, she would say she needed to play games with her roommates. As soon as he agreed, she would hang up so decisively.

Frowning, Xie Qichen asked Wen Cheng, “Do you think Tan Mo is about to forget she even has a husband?”

Wen Cheng: “…”

No, Mr. Xie. She’s already forgotten.

Trying to help his boss come up with ideas, Wen Cheng suggested, “What if… you call your wife back home? We can send her to school in the morning.”

In the end, Xie Qichen still allowed the girl to stay on campus. He could sense how happy she was. With only a few days of university life left, letting her enjoy herself for a while wouldn’t hurt.

Time flew, and the week quickly passed.

The following week, the graduation ceremony finally arrived.

Early that morning, Tan Mo woke up early because the school had assigned her a task, so she left the dorm first.

On her way, she bought breakfast and, as usual, sent Xie Qichen a voice message: “Morning, I’m up. I just bought something to eat and am heading to the auditorium. I’ve got work to do.”

A while later, Tan Mo arrived at the auditorium, where several students from the organizing committee were making final preparations.

Tan Mo needed to transfer files from her phone to the computer, so she shared her screen. As a result, she didn’t notice Xie Qichen’s voice message and accidentally clicked to play it, causing the voice to play throughout the entire meeting room:

“I’m up too, baby. I’m coming to attend your graduation ceremony. After today, can I take you home?”

The classmates who heard the voice message: ???!!!

The man’s voice, hoarse and deep from just waking up, was filled with longing, like a pitiful dog waiting for its owner to come home.

As soon as the voice message played, many classmates started teasing her, laughing as they looked at Tan Mo:

“Senior Tan Mo, we didn’t expect Senior Xie to be so affectionate in private!”

No one expected that the usually cold and aloof Xie Qichen, who rarely smiled at any female students, would call Tan Mo “baby” so intimately and ask when she would go home. The stark contrast was so heart-melting that everyone outside couldn’t help but swoon.

Quickly ending the screen share, Tan Mo blushed deeply from the teasing.

Sorry, she unintentionally shattered someone’s aloof image. XD

Well, she couldn’t help but proudly admit that she had always been special to Xie Qichen. She had never seen him act coldly toward her…

At around nine in the morning, the graduation ceremony finally began.

This was the university’s official graduation event, and besides all the graduates, some parents were also invited.

It started with speeches from the school leaders, followed by Tan Mo and another outstanding graduate giving their speeches. Then there were various performances and choral presentations by the students. Finally, the school leaders presented graduation certificates to all the graduates.

After this series of complex and solemn procedures, the graduation ceremony was officially concluded.

As the school anthem played, everyone gradually left the venue, taking photos and reminiscing freely.

When Tan Mo and her classmates walked out of the auditorium, she saw the man she had been expecting standing at the entrance, tall and upright, holding a bouquet of flowers, his demeanor calm and outstanding.

Even with people passing by all around him, he remained dazzling, instantly catching everyone’s attention.

Meeting Xie Qichen’s affectionate and gentle gaze, Tan Mo’s lips curved into a smile, and she couldn’t help but run toward him in small steps.

“Wow…”

Instantly, cheers and teasing erupted from the crowd around them.

Under the watchful eyes of many, Xie Qichen handed the flowers to Tan Mo and smiled as he said,

“Congratulations on graduating, Mrs. Xie.”

Smiling, Tan Mo accepted the flowers and then heard his even gentler voice, “Seeing you on stage today, you were especially outstanding.”

Upon hearing this, Tan Mo’s heart melted.

Watching the scene, her classmates teased, “I told you so! Today is Tan Mo’s graduation, and Senior Xie definitely came!”

“Of course! A husband must come!”

“Hahahahaha…”

Only later did Tan Mo realize she was blushing. Xie Qichen then hugged her close, politely greeted her classmates, and finally led Tan Mo away.

Holding the flowers, she looked up at him with a smile in her eyes, as if they were sparkling with stars:

“I didn’t expect you to buy me flowers. I thought you wouldn’t.”

He arched a brow at her, “Do you really think your husband is that unromantic?”

Tan Mo smiled sweetly, “Of course not. Who could be more romantic than you?”

Walking out together, they passed a large photo wall where graduates could sign their names as a keepsake.

Tan Mo glanced at Xie Qichen, who understood her intent, “Go ahead. I’ll hold the flowers for you.”

“Okay.”

Tan Mo walked alone to the photo wall. A boy in front of her finished signing and turned around, handing her the marker. She took it—

Only to look up and see Ye Yao’s face.

She paused slightly, “Thank you.”

Ye Yao also seemed momentarily startled. Tan Mo continued signing, and a few seconds later, a soft, restrained voice came from beside her, “Tan Mo, congratulations on graduating.”

The girl turned to meet his gaze, and after a few seconds, naturally curved her lips into a gentle smile:

“Same to you. Congratulations on graduating.”

During the school anniversary, Ye Yao saw Xie Qichen giving a speech on stage and finally understood just how exceptional he was. He completely understood why Tan Mo had said that after falling for Xie Qichen, she couldn’t see anyone else anymore.

That day, after experiencing a mix of emotions, Ye Yao eventually found peace. He posted on his social media: [As the ancients said: ‘Since Zhou Yu was born, why must Zhuge Liang be born too?’ Fortunately, you are not Zhuge Liang, and I am not Zhou Yu either. I admit my inferiority.]

Ye Yao acknowledged Xie Qichen’s excellence and accepted that he was far from reaching his level. His grace eventually earned respect from many people on social media.

Now, seeing him again, Tan Mo decided to let go of all the unpleasant past and leave only good wishes for each other.

They were both moving forward after graduation.

After signing, Tan Mo returned to Xie Qichen’s side, took back the flowers, and smiled, “Let’s go.”

Xie Qichen wrapped an arm around her and asked, “What do you want to do next?”

“Let’s take some photos? I’ve taken pictures with my classmates and teachers before, but not with you yet. Senior Xie, would you do me the honor of taking some couple-style photos?”

Xie Qichen smiled, “Sure.”

Tan Mo skipped happily ahead, “Tomorrow I’ll pack my luggage, and then I can almost leave school.”

“Mm. Next, let’s plan the wedding? The wedding dress has already been tailored, just waiting for you to try it on.”

Tan Mo nodded, her eyes sparkling with joy and clarity, “Okay.”

She was really looking forward to their wedding.

She exclaimed, “Getting married right after graduation, I’m the fastest in my class.”

“I’m the slowest in my class, not getting married until I’m thirty,” Xie Qichen said with a teasing tone, “Don’t I have to hurry up a bit?”

Upon hearing this, Tan Mo couldn’t help but laugh:

“Old man is in a hurry, rushing to marry me as soon as he came back from abroad.”

Xie Qichen’s lips curled into a smile, “Of course I’m in a hurry to be with you. I’m just afraid you might be taken away by someone else.”

Tan Mo laughed, “I won’t be taken away…”

Laughing and chatting, the two walked along the tree-lined path on campus.

The green leaves swayed gently in the breeze, creating a dazzling and mottled play of light and shadow, stretching their shadows very long…

After graduation, the wedding preparations were put on the agenda.

To show their seriousness, Xie Wenzong and Yang Xialan flew back to Licheng from abroad respectively, and the two families formally sat together to discuss.

The wedding would be held on a small island near Geirangerfjord, Norway. Earlier this year, Xie Qichen had purchased this island in Tan Mo’s name, naming it Jasmine Island.

The island had a pleasant landscape and a warm climate. Xie Qichen had the idea of holding their wedding there even before buying it, so he started making arrangements long ago.

They set the wedding date at the end of August. A week before the wedding, Tan Mo and Xie Qichen arrived first.

At first, they simply enjoyed a carefree couple’s time together for two days. Then their parents also arrived. Since the entire planning was entrusted to the wedding team hired by Xie Qichen, they were very relaxed. The two families only needed to come and check the results.

When confirming the wedding details, Xie Qichen always gently asked Tan Mo, “Do you like it?”

He gave her the final say, fully respecting her opinion. Tan Mo looked at him with a slightly bewildered expression, “Can I really decide?”

“You’re the bride. Why wouldn’t you be allowed to?”

Xie Qichen smiled and ruffled her hair, “I want everything about this day to be wonderful and unforgettable for you.”

Tan Mo felt a surge of emotion and realized how lucky she was to have met such a good man in this lifetime.

The wedding preparations proceeded smoothly. The day before, all the relatives, friends, and guests were arranged to fly to Geirangerfjord and finally arrived at the island.

The night before, according to tradition, Tan Mo and Xie Qichen had to stay separately.

Before going to bed, they called each other. Tan Mo was lying in bed and told Xie Qichen that her mother had come to chat with her that evening. They talked about how her adoptive parents found her.

That year, Tan Mo had just been born and was abandoned at the back entrance of the hospital. That day, Tan Mo’s adoptive father was accompanying her mother for a medical checkup and coincidentally witnessed a stranger holding Tan Mo, shouting and calling the police.

No one came to claim Tan Mo that day, and the surveillance footage couldn’t identify who had abandoned the baby. Seeing the white, soft infant in the crib, Tan Mo’s adoptive mother thought of Tan Zhiwan and was moved by maternal affection. After going through the necessary procedures, they finally adopted Tan Mo and brought her home.

Xie Qichen asked Tan Mo, “Do you want to find your biological parents?”

Thinking for a moment, Tan Mo murmured softly, “Actually, I don’t want to know who they are, nor do I want to search for them. Even if I find them, I won’t go back to them.”

She asked, pursing her lips, “Xie Qichen, do you think I’m heartless?”

The man’s gentle voice replied, “No.”

He felt for his little girl, his tone cold, “They abandoned you first. People like that don’t deserve to be called parents. What’s the point of searching for them?”

Tan Mo lowered her gaze, murmuring, “Yeah, so I think I should just stay with my current parents.”

The kindness of raising her surpasses the sky itself. Over the years, in Tan Mo’s heart, Tan Father and Tan Mother had become her true parents. She carries the surname Tan, and that will never change in this lifetime.

“When I was little, I used to be upset about why my birth parents abandoned me. But now that I have parents who love me, and I met you, I’m already very satisfied.”

Tan Mo smiled, saying, “Mr. Xie, as long as you stay by my side forever, it’s enough.”

They had married and would become one family from now on.

The man on the other end of the phone felt his heart soften and replied,

“Yes, you’ll always have me.”

–

A night passed, and the next day arrived, bright and sunny, finally welcoming this joyous occasion.

Today’s wedding venue was in a town nestled in a valley on Jasmine Island. In the center of the valley lay a vast open lawn where the wedding ceremony would be held outdoors.

As the lawn stretched to its end, the bay’s water sparkled in a brilliant blue, reflecting golden ripples under the sunlight. Steep mountains surrounded the area, with waterfalls winding down their slopes. Standing here, not far in the distance, continuous snow-capped mountains came into view, creating a scene of exquisite romance.

The ceremony lawn was decorated around the theme of jasmine flowers. The venue also featured fresh flowers flown in from around the world and premium red wine, making the setting grand and magnificent.

In the morning, all the guests arrived and took their seats.

Today, Ji Shu and Tan Mo’s three roommates formed the bridal attendants, while Lu Zi’an, Xun Huo, and other guys formed the groomsmen. In addition, many of Tan Mo and Xie Qichen’s university classmates also came.

As the time approached, the groom arrived.

The man wore a meticulously tailored high-end black suit today. Broad-shouldered, with long legs, his elegant and upright posture highlighted his dignified and mature aura. His sharp jawline and deep-set eyes, as dark and clear as a deep pool, exuded handsomeness and charm.

Soon after, people began to wonder why the bride had not appeared yet.

Then everyone looked up and saw a colorful hot-air balloon approaching them from the clear blue sky.

Around it, 9,999 drones from Aochuang transformed into various patterns, flying in formation as an escort. The hot-air balloon slowly advanced, leaving a trail of colorful trails across the sky. Gradually, the drones formed the words “Tan Mo & Xie Qichen,” surrounded by countless tiny hearts.

The guests were amazed by the spectacular scene. Then someone looked closer and realized that inside the hot-air balloon stood today’s leading lady.

Under the gaze of everyone, the hot-air balloon gently descended behind the lawn. Tan Mo slowly stepped out.

Tan Mo wore a pure white floor-length wedding gown today—an exclusive design worn nowhere else in the world. It had taken artisans three months of hand-stitching to complete. The fabric was embroidered with jasmine flowers.

The train of the skirt stretched as long as ten meters, like a cascade of the Milky Way, sparkling with brilliant light under the sun, rippling like waves with every step.

Today, the girl looked like a princess, her black hair contrasting with her red lips, her skin white as congealed fat. Her delicate face, framed by clear and bright almond eyes, wore a white veil like clouds and mist, as if she had stepped straight out of a painting—so beautiful that all the guests were moved.

With the help of flower girls, she stepped down from the hot-air balloon. Tan Father stepped forward, and Tan Mo took his arm, walking along the red carpet, greeted by applause.

Tan Mo lifted her head and saw the man standing in the middle of the carpet, his gaze fixed solely on her.

Her lips curved into a bright smile as she took one step closer to him.

Finally arriving before him, Tan Father’s eyes brimmed with tears. Smiling, he placed Tan Mo’s hand into Xie Qichen’s.

The man looked down at Tan Mo, his eyes brimming with deep affection as he softly spoke,

“My bride today is ten thousand times more beautiful than I imagined.”

Tan Mo’s eyes glistened, her lips curling upwards. She finally took Xie Qichen’s arm and slowly walked onto the platform.

When the two stood facing each other, a drone slowly descended, carrying two wedding rings.

Today, Tan Yuanzhou was the officiant. Standing between them, he looked at Xie Qichen and asked,

“Mr. Xie Qichen, do you solemnly promise, in accordance with the wedding vows, to love your bride for the rest of your life, whether in poverty or wealth, in sickness or in health, to comfort her, respect her, protect her, and remain forever faithful to her? Do you accept this?”

Xie Qichen gazed at Tan Mo, smiling as he softly replied,

“I do.”

“Ms. Tan Mo, do you solemnly promise, in accordance with the wedding vows, to love your groom for the rest of your life, whether in poverty or wealth, in sickness or in health, to comfort him, respect him, protect him, and remain forever faithful to him? Do you accept this?”

Tan Mo looked at Xie Qichen, her eyes moist as she nodded, “I do.”

Thunderous applause erupted from below.

They helped each other put on the rings.

Then Tan Yuanzhou smiled and said, “Now, groom, you may kiss your bride.”

Blushing, Tan Mo looked at Xie Qichen. The next moment, her veil was lifted, her waist drawn into an embrace. As she closed her eyes, a gentle breeze brushed past, and the man’s tender kiss landed softly.

At that moment, the drones scattered petals across the sky, and time seemed to freeze.

A tear slid from the corner of Tan Mo’s eye. In her heart, there was only the man deeply kissing her.

A few seconds later, Xie Qichen pulled away. His warm dark eyes gazed at the girl’s face just inches away, filled with deep affection:

“Mrs. Xie, my dream has finally come true.”

They were each other’s deepest longing.

Four summers ago, he left the country.

Four years later, he returned and finally married her. She had become the wife of the only man she had ever secretly loved in her life.

From now on, all regrets were left behind.

Tan Mo and Xie Qichen would be joined in matrimony, growing old together, never missing each other again.