My mom paused mid-step— and my dad practically sprinted in from the kitchen like he'd seen a snake.
> "Yiren, don't joke like that!" my mom scolded.
"He's her boss, not—"
> "Maaa~~," I said, dragging the word in embarrassment.
But before I could explain, Xiang reached for my hand and said confidently:
> "Auntie, Uncle—we're in a relationship."
For a second, the entire room froze.
My parents stood like snow statues.
My brother leaned in and tapped their shoulders dramatically.
> "Don't be so shocked," he said.
"When I visited her last time, this 'boss' had already fallen for her.
But she told me to keep my mouth shut."
---
My father immediately grabbed Xiang's hand like he was welcoming a VIP guest and led him into the living room.
My mother followed, still stunned.
She turned to me and asked,
> "When… when did you… fall in love with your boss?"
I rubbed my head sheepishly.
She looked at me in disbelief and muttered,
> "Zhou Ye… I seriously underestimated you.
You're a brave girl, huh?"
---
We sat at the dining table and began eating.
Just as Xiang was about to take his first bite, my father asked:
> "When did you meet her?"
Xiang smiled politely.
> "I met her when she joined the company, Uncle.
But… she actually knew me three years ago."
I shot Xiang a murderous look.
My parents turned to me as if I had committed a crime.
My brother raised an eyebrow and gave me a bombastic side-eye.
> "I thought he fell for you, but it turns out you fell for him three years ago?
How did you even manage to hide that?
You're not smart enough to pull that off."
I slapped him on the back.
> "Shut up."
My mother intervened.
> "Quiet, both of you."
Then she turned to Xiang.
> "Do your parents know about this relationship?"
Xiang nodded.
> "Yes, Auntie. They know, and they've accepted it."
My father chuckled, clearly impressed.
> "Boy, you came prepared, huh?"
Xiang smiled sheepishly and nodded.
---
After dinner, my father invited Xiang to play a game with him.
Normally, my dad was unbeatable—
but this time, he regretted the challenge.
Xiang won all ten rounds.
I laughed, watching my father grow flustered.
My mother leaned in and whispered:
> "Your boss seems kind-hearted.
He really takes care of you. He's a good son-in-law."
I stared at her in shock.
> "So… you and Dad accept our relationship?"
She nodded proudly.
> "Yes."
I jumped up and hugged her.
> "Thank you, Mom."
---
That night, while I went to bed, Xiang stayed up talking with my brother.
> "How did you fall for her?" Yiren asked.
"As her brother, even I can't handle her. How do you do it so easily?"
Xiang chuckled.
> "She's not as naughty as you think. Compared to me, I'm the mischievous one.
She puts up with me—she's patient.
And she's my baby."
> "Ugh, cringey," Yiren groaned.
"But seriously, I do care about her. If she ever cries, I won't be as calm as she is.
Take care of her, okay?"
Xiang smiled warmly.
> "I will.
With all my heart."