Travelling to the Hou Ancestral Home
Tuesday, continued…
After a few moments of quiet, Hou Yi’s attention shifted back to Anna as she emerged from the bathroom. She had spent a little longer than expected, but he didn’t mind—he understood that moments like these were needed for both of them to reset. She looked elegant as she entered the walk-in robe, her movements graceful despite the lingering exhaustion of the day.
Hou Yi moved quickly, picking up his clothes and heading into the bathroom for his own shower. He dressed efficiently, not wanting to waste any time. When he returned to the bedroom, he saw Anna still struggling with the zipper of her dress. Without a word, he walked over and finished the task for her, his fingers brushing gently against her skin. He also helped her put on the necklace from Feng, its delicate design gleaming under the soft light.
Before they left, Hou Yi entered the bathroom again, casually tossing their clothes on the floor around the bed, hoping to create a certain image for anyone who might see the room later. He wanted the illusion of spontaneity, something far wilder than what had really transpired between them. But, in truth, it didn’t matter. It was just a game of appearances, and they both understood that.
With a quick glance to make sure everything was in place, Hou Yi took Anna’s hand, guiding her out of the suite and down the stairs. At the bottom, they were greeted by Butler Ge, who handed Hou Yi a coat and a simple black wrap for Anna. She slipped on a pair of white heeled shoes, a touch of elegance to complement her quiet beauty.
Hou Yi addressed Butler Ge, giving a series of quick but important instructions. “I need you to do three things. Call my driver and let him know we’re on our way down. Call my family to let them know I’ll be there within 30 minutes, subject to traffic. Most importantly, please arrange for our suite to be tidied up and prepared for our return.”
With the calls made and the necessary arrangements in place, Hou Yi and Anna entered the elevator. The car was waiting at the door, and Hou Yi helped Anna inside before climbing in himself. He turned to the driver and gave the order, “Drive us to the ancestral home, and close the privacy screen.” Once the door clicked shut, he ensured Anna was comfortable, gently helping her adjust her seatbelt before securing his own.
“Rest,” he whispered softly. “We have about 30 minutes before we reach the Hou family ancestral home.”
Anna, still feeling the weight of the day’s events, laid her head on his shoulder. Within moments, she was asleep, her breathing steady and calm. Hou Yi sat back in his seat, allowing himself a few moments of quiet as he reflected on the day. He had been protective of Anna, ensuring she felt safe and secure, even as they navigated through uncomfortable situations. But this was different. This was his family, his heritage—and he hoped, for Anna’s sake, that this part of the journey would be the easiest.
He thought of his mother, Du AnLing, and his aunt, Leng Xi. Of all the family members, they would likely be the ones to take to Anna first. It wasn’t just because of Anna’s charm or beauty, though he knew those would not go unnoticed. No, it was because he was giving Anna access to something far more coveted—his money, his resources, his freedom to spend without the usual restrictions. That would appeal to his family, but if it helped Anna adjust, helped her feel more at home in this world, then so be it.
His thoughts began to drift, the soothing rhythm of the car and the quiet of the night lulling him into a light doze. He wasn’t sure how long he slept, but soon he was jolted awake by the soft stop of the car. The driver’s voice came through the intercom, announcing their arrival at the ancestral home.
Hou Yi glanced over at Anna. She was still asleep, her head resting peacefully against his shoulder. Gently, he shook her awake. “Anna,” he whispered, his voice tender. “We’ve arrived. We’ll only stay as long as we need to, then we’ll head back to the apartment.”
Anna stirred, her eyes blinking open, still groggy from sleep. As she moved to get out of the car, Hou Yi leaned over, his words soft but earnest. “Please don’t be angry about this again,” he said, his voice carrying a hint of apprehension.
Without waiting for her response, he swept her into his arms, lifting her effortlessly as he stepped out of the car. His actions were a bit dramatic, but he could tell it was something his family would appreciate. Staff members stood by, watching with raised eyebrows as he carried Anna through the front door of the Hou Ancestral Home.
Inside, waiting to greet them, were his parents. His mother, Du AnLing, and his father, along with several staff members, stood in the foyer, watching the scene unfold. Hou Yi moved with purpose, but his mind was already racing ahead, wondering how Anna would react to this new phase of her life.
