8 months later-
The months just flew by as Han Zihao and Xu Nuan settled into their new lifestyles, caring for their adorable daughter and embracing the joys and challenges of being new parents. Between late-night feedings, first giggles, and learning the delicate art of diaper changes, time seemed to slip through their fingers.
Suddenly, as they were fulfilling the uncharted roles of new parents, they realized a year had passed since they had become husband and wife. Their first anniversary was here, a gentle reminder of the vows they had made and the life they had built together.
Late at night, Xu Nuan stirred awake, sensing Han Zihao's soft gaze on her. Turning her head, she met his eyes, twinkling with a gentle smile as he watched her sleep.
Yawning and stretching, she asked, "What's going on? Why are you up? It's still pitch-black outside."
He leaned over and tenderly kissed her forehead, whispering in a voice full of affection, "Happy anniversary, my love. Can you believe it's already been a year?"
"Anniversary?" she mumbled, still caught between sleep and wakefulness. "Oh, right! That's today!"
The previous night, he had arrived home late, finding her curled up in bed, exhausted after finally getting Zixuan to sleep. Their little girl had been especially fussy lately due to teething, crying more often, and managing her mood swings had become a real challenge.
Seeing Xu Nuan's worn-out face, he had decided against waking her at midnight to celebrate. Instead, he had changed quietly and slid into bed beside her, waiting for the perfect quiet moment in the early hours.
Now, as she woke to this loving gaze, she saw in his eyes not just the warmth of affection but a reflection of everything they had shared and learned together in this remarkable first year of marriage.
Xu Nuan's face broke into a smile, warmed by his loving expression. She wrapped her arms around his waist and nuzzled her face against his chest, purring like an attention-seeking cat, and murmured, "Happy one-year anniversary, my dear husband."
"Ah, I can't believe it's been a year already. What an eventful time it has been." Her voice trailed off into a contented sigh as she reflected on all the unforgettable moments that had filled such a short span of time.
One of those cherished memories was the birth of Zixuan, the most precious gift in their lives.
Han Zihao hugged her even tighter, gently rubbing her back, his voice soft and soothing, "Get some more sleep, love. Tomorrow, I have something planned for us, so rest up and be ready for a surprise."
"Surprise? What is it?" she asked, curiosity dancing in her eyes as she raised her head to look at him.
With a teasing smile, Han Zihao gave her a quick peck on the lips and replied, "Sleep now. Surprises aren't supposed to be revealed. You'll find out tomorrow."
"Fine," Xu Nuan pouted playfully, shrugging her shoulders before snuggling closer and drifting back to sleep. For her, cuddling with him was the most comforting way to drift off, wrapped in the secure embrace of their love.
Han Zihao playfully frowned, countering, "Not more than Mom. But still prettier than any other girl in the world."
Jia Fei and Luo Dan exchanged knowing glances, shaking their heads with smiles. Best not to think too deeply about their loving comments, while they casually disregarded the existence of the world surrounding them.
The couple spent the day taking beautiful pictures, using the lush greenery of their back garden, the cheerful front yard, and the breathtaking backdrop of blue skies and mountains to frame their joy.
Xu Nuan and Han Zihao held little Zixuan snugly between them as they posed, their faces glowing with pride and love. The photographs captured not just their smiles but the essence of a family united in happiness.
Jia Fei, designated as the photographer, was busy snapping away, while Luo Dan, ever the creative mind, suggested fun and heartwarming poses. Han Liang and Yuhan were supposedly in charge of props and refreshments, but they seemed more interested in commenting, teasing, and enjoying the snacks.
They munched on treats and offered playful commentary, having found the perfect excuse to avoid the actual work. Luo Dan and Jia Fei were doing most of the work, but Han Liang and Yuhan didn't seem to mind.
After all, sometimes not having a particular skill is a blessing in disguise. It allows you to sit back, relax, and savor the moments.
The day was all smiles, snapshots, and shared memories. Their anniversary turned into something more—a celebration of family, friends, and the love that tied them all together.
After the family photo session, the couple enjoyed lunch with everyone, feasting on the delicious food they had ordered since there was almost no time to cook and prepare everything themselves.
Afterward, they embarked on a journey to greet the elders. First, they went to the Jiang Household to meet Grandfather Jiang and receive his blessings.
From there, they traveled to meet Grandfather Gu, who was thrilled to see them and little Zixuan. At the Gu Household, Xu Nuan encountered Lin Ran, who remained controlled and silent around her.
Though Lin Ran was not outwardly affectionate with Xu Nuan, at least she no longer created problems for her. It seemed that Gu Zhang's decision to send Lin Ran home for a few days as punishment had its effect. From that day on, she never uttered a word of hatred towards Xu Nuan.
Surprisingly, though Lin Ran might not have liked Xu Nuan, she adored Zixuan and treated her with kindness, a fact that surprised everyone.
The couple didn't linger at the Gu Household and proceeded straight to Han Mansion to greet Grandmother Han and the rest of the family. Grandmother Han wanted them to stay for dinner, but Han Zihao already had plans.
However, to please the elders, he did something that would delight them. He handed Zixuan to Grandmother Han, leaving her with her for a day.
Han Zihao wanted to spend the remaining time with Xu Nuan alone, and Grandmother Han understood the need, happily taking little Zixuan into her arms.
Playing with her great-granddaughter was Grandmother Han's favorite pastime, and she was overjoyed to spend the night with her little one. They all said goodbye to the couple, content with the joy and connections of the day.