Shutting Immigration Down
Thursday, continued…
Anna stepped into the elevator with three bodyguards and most of the immigration officials, her mind racing. As the doors closed, she instinctively used the pass card Assistant Wang had given her to select the floor where Hou Yi’s office was located. Seconds later, another elevator opened, and Assistant Wang emerged with the rest of the group, ensuring no one was left behind.
Anna handed her laptop bag and handbag to Assistant Wang as he discreetly passed the original marriage documents back to her. “Madam Hou,” he whispered, “I’ll keep these safe for you.”
The group made their way to Hou Yi’s office, drawing curious stares from employees along the way. Anna could feel their eyes, filled with questions about who she was and why she warranted such a formidable entourage.
As they reached the outer office, Hou Yi opened the door, his demeanor calm and authoritative. Anna walked in first, the immigration officials trailing behind her, clearly uneasy. Once everyone was inside, Hou Yi gestured for the bodyguards to close the door, effectively shutting out any onlookers.
Without hesitation, Hou Yi walked over to Anna, wrapping his arms around her and placing a gentle kiss on her temple. “Are you okay, sweetheart?” he asked softly, his concern evident.
“I’m fine, Yi,” Anna replied, her voice steady. “I just want this resolved.”
Hou Yi nodded, guiding her to the couch. He sat down and pulled her onto his lap, his hand never leaving hers. As Anna leaned against him, her composure remained strong, despite the weight of the situation.
The immigration officials, clearly stunned, observed the couple. Hou Yi’s demeanor was far from the aloof, detached image he was known for. Instead, he exuded warmth and affection toward his wife, a stark contrast to his public persona.
Hou Yi glanced at Assistant Wang, who was standing by the desk. “Are we ready?” he asked.
“Yes, CEO Hou,” Assistant Wang replied. “I’ve sent the footage to the screen. The officials can view it at your convenience.”
Hou Yi gestured to the immigration officials. “Gentlemen, take a seat. This footage should clarify everything.”
With the press of a button, the blinds closed, and a hidden television screen revealed itself. The video began playing, showing timestamped footage of Hou Yi and Anna at the Civil Administration Bureau obtaining their marriage certificate. The authenticity was undeniable.
While three of the officials focused on the footage, the fourth kept his eyes on Anna and Hou Yi, scrutinizing their every interaction. Anna, reclining slightly on the couch, appeared entirely at ease, her hand resting on Hou Yi’s chest. Their quiet whispers and stolen glances only reinforced the image of a newlywed couple deeply in love.
When the footage ended, the lead official cleared his throat. “CEO Hou,” he began, but his voice faltered as he took in the sight of Anna, now playing with Hou Yi’s tie, her hair slightly tousled from leaning against him.
“Yes?” Hou Yi’s tone was sharp, his patience clearly wearing thin.
The official hesitated. “While the documents and footage appear authentic, we could not find a record of your marriage in the national database. We need to contact the Civil Administration Bureau directly for confirmation.”
Hou Yi sighed. “We’ve been married less than two days. It’s no surprise the records haven’t updated. Use the phone on my desk to make your call. And while you’re at it, confirm her dual citizenship. That should clear up any remaining doubts.”
The official picked up the phone and quickly dialed the Civil Administration Bureau. Within minutes, the confirmation came through. The marriage certificate and related documents were genuine, and Anna’s dual citizenship was valid.
“Apologies, CEO Hou, Madam Hou,” the official said, visibly humbled. “We received incorrect information suggesting Madam Hou was working illegally and that her visa had been revoked. Clearly, that is not the case. Is there anything we can do to rectify this misunderstanding?”
Anna sat up, her gaze steady. “We understand you were following up on a report, but we’re not ready to go public with our marriage. We ask that you keep this information as confidential as possible and limit the details in your records. Can we count on your discretion?”
All four officials nodded in unison. “Of course, Madam Hou.”
“Then, if there’s nothing further, we’d appreciate it if you left us to our work,” Hou Yi said curtly.
The officials filed out of the room, each acutely aware of the monumental secret they now carried. One, however, hesitated. He had been instructed to retrieve Anna’s laptop, a task he had failed to complete. The conflicting orders weighed heavily on him as he exited the office, unsure of what his next move would be.
As the door closed behind them, Anna let out a slow breath, finally allowing herself to relax. Hou Yi tightened his arms around her, whispering, “You handled that perfectly, sweetheart. They won’t bother you again.”
“Let’s hope not,” Anna replied, leaning into him. “But we both know this isn’t over. Not yet.”
