The next day, Xiang informed his mother that he was going to visit my parents for New Year's Eve.
She responded warmly,
> "Xiang, buy them gifts and serve them well.
Most importantly, be a good son-in-law. Don't make us worry.
When you return, you should return with glory."
Xiang laughed and replied,
> "Don't worry, Mom. I've planned everything.
And if anything goes wrong, Zhou Ye will take care of it.
You just enjoy the New Year.
I will return with glory. Advance Happy New Year!"
His mother chuckled, nodded, and ended the call.
---
That evening, we packed our things and headed to the station.
As we boarded the train and found our seats,
I noticed Xiang carrying a bunch of carefully wrapped gifts for my parents.
His hands were slightly trembling.
I leaned closer and asked,
> "Xiang, are you nervous?"
He laughed awkwardly.
> "No… It's just my first time meeting them, that's all."
I gently patted his arm and smiled.
> "My parents are just like me—warm, a little dramatic, but not strict.
You'll get along with them easily. Don't stress."
He nodded, then suddenly leaned his head on my shoulder like a clingy puppy.
I smiled and let him rest.
---
The next morning, it was finally New Year's Day.
We reached my home, and as soon as my mother opened the door,
she greeted me with pure excitement and hugged me tight.
Meanwhile, Xiang stood beside me awkwardly—
looking like a forgotten side character.
---
Pulling back, my mom looked at me with concern.
> "Ye, you've lost weight. Are you eating properly?
I should've told your friends to keep a close eye on you!"
I laughed and reassured her,
> "I'm fine, Mom. My friends are taking good care of me."
Then she noticed Xiang. Her eyes narrowed slightly.
> "And who is he?"
Xiang, as if on cue, popped up like a jack-in-the-box and gave a polite little wave.
> "Hello, Auntie!"
But instead of assuming anything romantic,
she simply tilted her head.
> "Ye… isn't he your boss?
Why'd you bring your boss home?"
She stepped aside and invited us in.
Right then, my brother walked in, raised an eyebrow at me—
And I quickly signaled him with my eyes.
He smirked.
> "Brother-in-law," he said loudly, turning toward Xiang.