"It seems a bit large, Yueyue's wrists are too slender," Meng Hualan remarked.
Su Yue gazed at the bracelet dazedly, wanting to refuse, but the elderly lady spoke first:
"It's fine if it's large, you can keep it for collection."
She then looked at Su Yue, her eyes brimming with affection:
"Grandma has many pieces put away. Next time you visit my home, I'll pick out a suitable one for you. I gave one to your aunt before and wanted Chen Ziming to bring it to you, but this brat refused."
Meng Hualan pouted and, looking at Su Yue, added:
"Yes, he always likes to go against us."
"Let's not mention him," the old lady waved her hand, took the bracelet off, placed it back into the gift box, and pushed it towards Su Yue:
"This is for my granddaughter-in-law, and also for my descendant. Your aunt mentioned you're currently studying journalism at the Communications University and aspire to be a reporter. In that case, we're colleagues."
Upon hearing this, Su Yue's heart leaped with joy. Forgetting the bracelet for a moment, she eagerly and earnestly replied:
"Yes, Grandma, my ambition is to be a reporter."
"That's wonderful! Grandma has plenty of experience. I was just worrying about having no one to talk to after retirement. I'll give you my address and phone number. Come find me when you have time, and I'll teach you properly."
Her tone conveyed more than just fondness; it was a clear expression of cherishing talent.
Su Yue's excitement had already transformed into elation.
For the remainder of the time, the conversation primarily revolved around the careers of the three people at the table, rather than her relationship with Chen Ziming.
Both elder women were women of great vision with substantial careers. They did not see Su Yue as merely a young, beautiful girl but focused more on her thoughts and capabilities.
This moved Su Yue deeply.
She suddenly felt fortunate to have met Chen Ziming, and by him, to have been brought into such a life.
To encounter top-tier, outstanding individuals and receive their respect and recognition.
This was something she had never even dreamed of.
And it was a privilege she could only enjoy by being with him.
After dinner, Meng Hualan drove her home.
Before Su Yue got out of the car, Meng Hualan, with a knowing smile, cautioned her to keep their conversation a secret from Chen Ziming.
She truly envied him a little now.
Such a good family, such understanding elders who respected their children's opinions.
No wonder he had grown into such an outstanding person.
No wonder he always carried himself with such confidence.
Su Yue's mindset had also undergone a subtle shift.
Initially, she merely liked his looks and wanted to flirt with him playfully.
Later, her intentions were less pure, seeking his silent protection.
Then came continuous heartbeats, evolving into affection, and finally, the decision to be serious with him.
And now, and for all the long years to come.
His presence would be like the light in her life, guiding her to become like him, like his mother and grandmother, a person of great vision.
She suddenly felt her life wasn't so bad anymore.
His appearance was fate's redemption for her.
A happy smile bloomed on the girl's face, her eyes misting over with captivating tears.
These tears, accumulating, finally spilled over when she opened the door to his home.
Her heart was filled with ecstasy, like a lost girl encountering a divine light-bearer; she no longer had to live in fear.
Her future would be illuminated by this light.
Clear and beautiful.
Su Yue crouched down, her trembling hands retrieving her phone. She opened WeChat and tapped on the person at the very top.
Her slender white fingers tapped out a few words and sent them.
Then, she hugged herself and wept unrestrainedly.
These were tears of joy.
The young police officer, having just handled a call, opened his phone.
Artemis's message popped up.
[I miss you]
The feeling of happiness was impossible to conceal; even if she tried, it would betray itself in her eyes and the corners of her lips.
Checking the time, it was eleven o'clock.
His darling might already be asleep.
But he still found a quiet corner and called her.
To his surprise, she answered quickly.
"My darling isn't asleep yet, is it because you miss me?"
"Mmm, I miss you, I miss you very, very much."
She answered boldly, knowing she would receive an even more affirming reply.
This was the confidence he gave her.
As expected, he burst into laughter. Had she been able to see him, she would have noticed his gaze, so tender it could melt everything.
"Be good, my darling. Get some sleep quickly. Tomorrow morning, at six o'clock, I'll be home."
"Mmm, then... you've worked hard."
She couldn't help but blush again, her voice softening, and after responding, she quickly hung up.
Looking at the call ended screen, the man could guess her expression at that moment.
The smile gradually faded but remained in his eyes.
And so, that night, the officers at the Yuluo Street Police Station all felt a shockingly gentle demeanor from Officer Chen.