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Chapter 166 Double the Surprise
Chapter 166 Double the Surprise
At 3:50 p.m., Liu Yifei's phone vibrated precisely on time.
She was curled up on the living room sofa scrolling through Weibo, and saw that the comments under her Paris group photo had exceeded 10,000, with a smile on her lips that she herself did not realize.
A text message popped up from Jiang Yu: "I'll be home at four. I'll leave at six in the evening, dressed formally."
She replied immediately, her fingers flying across the keyboard: "Okay! Where are we going? Give me a hint? Just a tiny bit!" She added a puppy emoji with eager eyes.
The reply came quickly: "Restaurant. Other details are confidential."
"You stingy little thing." Liu Yifei sent a pouting emoji; the cartoon girl's lips were so pouty they could hang an oil bottle on them.
"You'll find out tonight, sweetie." Jiang Yu replied with a patting emoji, a large hand rubbing the kitten's head.
Liu Yifei made a face at her phone screen, but couldn't help laughing.
She put down her phone, slipped on her slippers, and walked into the walk-in closet.
Since we're being formal, it's probably not a very casual occasion.
The walk-in closet is very large, almost the size of a bedroom in an average home.
The left side belongs to her, and the right side belongs to Jiang Yu, but most of the clothes have already been moved over.
Jiang Yu said, "We'll have to move in sooner or later anyway, so let's get used to it first."
She opened her wardrobe, looked at the dazzling array of clothes inside, and suffered from decision paralysis.
The first dress she took out was a black spaghetti strap long dress, made of silk, with a simple and elegant cut, which she bought in Paris last time.
Isn't this too somber? It's my birthday today, I should dress brighter.
I hung it back up and took out the second one; a light pink tulle skirt with layers of thin tulle, very princess-like, a gift from the "Black Swan" crew for my birthday last year.
She looks too girlish. Shouldn't she be more mature at 22? And doesn't the pink color clash with the platinum and diamond necklace she's wearing today?
It was hung up again.
The third dress is a royal blue velvet gown with a V-neck design and excellent tailoring, making it particularly elegant.
Isn't this too formal? What if we're just going to a regular restaurant? Would wearing this seem like overdoing it?
She was looking at the wardrobe, her fingers sliding across the clothes rack, when the sound of the door lock turning rang out right on time. At four o'clock sharp, Jiang Yu returned.
"Choosing clothes?" Jiang Yu walked into the dressing room and loosened his tie.
He saw Liu Yifei standing in front of the wardrobe, her brows slightly furrowed, holding three dresses in her hands and comparing them. She looked incredibly cute.
"Hmm, you mean formal, but I don't know how formal..." Liu Yifei turned to look at him, her eyes suddenly lighting up, "What are you wearing? I'll match your outfit."
Jiang Yu wore a dark blue custom-made shirt today. The fabric was crisp and textured, with one button undone at the collar and the sleeves casually rolled up to his elbows.
He wore matching trousers, formal yet relaxed, which suited his style perfectly; businesslike yet casual, sophisticated yet not rigid.
"This one will do." Jiang Yu didn't look at the dresses, but instead took out an outfit she hadn't expected from the other side of the wardrobe; it wasn't a dress, but a black Chanel suit, a short skirt with a small jacket, a classic style, with delicate pleats at the waist, understated yet elegant.
"This outfit?" Liu Yifei took it and held it up against herself. "Isn't it a bit too... professional? Like I'm going to a meeting."
"No, it won't." Jiang Yu walked over, straightened her collar, and said seriously, "You're bright enough as a person. If your clothes are too flashy, they'll just steal the spotlight. This outfit is perfect, elegant and sophisticated, and all the attention will be on you."
Liu Yifei felt a sweet warmth in her heart from his words, but she still deliberately pouted, "Your words are so sweet, like they're coated with honey. Okay, fine, I'll listen to you."
She took the clothes and went to change.
Chanel's tailoring is truly impeccable; it fits perfectly when worn, and the short skirt falls just above the knee, making the legs appear straight and long.
A light jacket draped over the shoulders instantly elevates one's style; it's not girlish sweetness, but mature elegance.
She came out of the fitting room and twirled in front of Jiang Yu: "How was it?"
Jiang Yu's eyes lit up. He took two steps forward and reached out to straighten her coat collar: "It looks good. It's just..."
"What is it?"
"It's just too formal." Jiang Yu suddenly laughed and took out a simple T-shirt from the closet. "Take off your jacket and wear this underneath."
"Huh?" Liu Yifei was stunned. "Doesn't that mean a T-shirt and a short skirt? Isn't that too casual?"
"Trust me." Jiang Yu's eyes held a mischievous glint in them. "There's a barbecue tonight, and it's inconvenient to dress too formally."
.
"Barbecue?" Liu Yifei caught the key word. "Didn't you say a restaurant?"
"Ahem..." Jiang Yu coughed lightly, changing the subject, "Anyway, let's hurry up and change, time is a bit tight." He glanced at his watch, "It needs to be done by five o'clock."
"So rushed?" Liu Yifei asked in surprise. "Weren't we supposed to leave at six?"
"We need to arrive a little earlier," Jiang Yu said vaguely, pushing her towards the fitting room. "Anyway, let's hurry up. I've called the makeup artist; she'll be there soon."
As he pushed Liu Yifei into the fitting room, her mind was still racing: a restaurant? A barbecue restaurant?
What kind of occasions require both formality and ease of movement? And barbecues... does that mean outdoors?
She came out after changing her clothes; she was wearing a T-shirt and a black tweed mini skirt, which was definitely more comfortable than the previous outfit.
Jiang Yu looked him up and down, then nodded in satisfaction: "Perfect. Now go to the living room; the makeup artist should be here soon."
Sure enough, the doorbell rang as soon as he finished speaking.
The aunt went to open the door, and yesterday's premiere makeup artist Lisa and hairstylist Kevin came in with their assistant Xiao Yang. All three of them were carrying professional toolboxes.
"Happy birthday, Miss Liu!" the three of them said in unison, all with smiles on their faces.
"Thank you." Liu Yifei sat down on the makeshift makeup chair in the living room. "Keep it simple today, nothing too heavy."
"Understood, President Jiang instructed that it should be natural and elegant, but also allow for easy movement," Lisa said, opening her makeup case. "I heard there's an outdoor activity tonight?"
Liu Yifei immediately glared at Jiang Yu in the mirror.
Jiang Yu was sitting on the sofa not far away, texting on his phone. Sensing her gaze, he looked up and blinked innocently.
"President Jiang is really..." Liu Yifei was both annoyed and amused, "He's very tight-lipped."
Lisa smiled and began applying her foundation: "Mr. Jiang is so thoughtful towards you, even adjusting your makeup style according to the occasion. In all my years of doing celebrity makeup and hair, this is the first time I've met such a considerate boyfriend."
Liu Yifei felt sweet inside, but deliberately said, "He's just very controlling."
"But someone has to be willing to be controlled by him first," Kevin replied, starting to do her hair. "Miss Liu, your hair is so beautiful, so smooth and shiny, you don't need to do much styling."
While Jiang Yu was getting her makeup and hair done, she waited in the living room, clearly somewhat distracted.
He would answer the phone every now and then, speaking in a low voice; then he would send a text message, his fingers flying across the keyboard; then he would check his watch, his brow slightly furrowed.
Liu Yifei became even more curious when she saw his reflection in the mirror.
Who is Jiang Yu? He's the kind of person who can calmly drink coffee at an investment negotiation meeting worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
What kind of arrangements could make the usually calm and composed Jiang Yu appear so "tense in preparation"?
She felt like a kitten was scratching at her heart, making her very itchy.
At 5:20, the makeup and hair were finished.
Lisa applied very light makeup to Liu Yifei, emphasizing the brightness of her eyes and the moisture of her lips. Her skin was only lightly covered with foundation, preserving its natural glow.
Her hair wasn't styled in a complicated way; it was simply blow-dried and left to fall over her shoulders, with a few stray strands casually framing her face—elegant and natural.
Liu Yifei stood in front of the full-length mirror in the entryway, examining herself.
A white T-shirt paired with a black mini skirt is simple yet refreshing.
The F&Y necklace around her neck shimmered under the mirror lights, truly the finishing touch to her entire outfit.
"Beautiful." Jiang Yu's voice came from behind.
He walked behind her, looked at her in the mirror, and said tenderly, "You're gorgeous."
"Really?" Liu Yifei turned around, her skirt tracing a graceful arc.
She tiptoed and gave him a light kiss on the lips. "Thank you for the compliment. Can we set off now? I'm so curious!"
"It's okay." Jiang Yu took her hand, his fingers intertwining tightly with hers. "Let's go, a surprise awaits."
The two went downstairs, and the elevator went directly to the underground parking garage.
As soon as the door opened, Liu Yifei was stunned; waiting there was not her usual Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but a black Rolls-Royce Phantom.
The driver, dressed in uniform, stood by the car and respectfully opened the back door when he saw them get out.
"So grand?" Liu Yifei turned to look at Jiang Yu in surprise.
"It's just a birthday," Jiang Yu said casually, helping her into the car. "It only happens once a year, so of course it has to be a big celebration."
The space was ridiculously spacious; Liu Yifei could even stretch her legs out in the back seat. Chilled champagne and two crystal glasses were already laid out on the small table in the middle.
"Would you like a drink?" Jiang Yu asked her.
"Now?" Liu Yifei shook her head. "Let's wait until then. I'm afraid I'll miss the surprise if I get drunk."
Jiang Yu smiled, didn't force him, and didn't drink any himself.
The car smoothly drove out of Yintai Center and onto the East Third Ring Road.
Traffic in Beijing started to get congested in the evening, but the Rolls-Royce Phantom had excellent sound insulation, so you could hardly hear the noise outside inside the car.
Liu Yifei leaned back in her comfortable seat, looking at the scenery outside the window, her brain racing as she tried to guess her destination.
This direction... it's not going to Guomao, it's not going to Wangfujing, it's heading east?
Are there any upscale restaurants to the east? She ran through her mind: Liangmaqiao? Sanyuanqiao? Or...?
"Where are we going?" she couldn't help but ask again, the third time she had asked since getting in the car.
"You'll see when we get there." Jiang Yu repeated his previous statement, this time holding her hand tightly and gently stroking the back of her hand with his thumb. "Trust me, you'll like it."
Liu Yifei looked at his profile, a faint smile on her lips, her eyes filled with anticipation and nervousness as if a carefully prepared gift was about to be revealed.
She suddenly stopped asking.
She leaned back in her seat and grasped his hand in return: "Okay, I believe you."
After driving for about twenty minutes, we finally entered a high-end residential area that looked very private.
The security guard clearly recognized the car and let it through immediately.
The community has excellent greenery and consists entirely of detached villas with large spacing, ensuring a high degree of privacy. The Rolls-Royce slowly stopped in front of one of the three-story villas.
"This is..." Liu Yifei got out of the car and looked around at her surroundings.
The courtyard is shaded by green trees, the lawn is neatly trimmed, and a stone path leads to the entrance of the villa.
The villa is in a modern Chinese style, with white walls and gray tiles, which is very charming.
The warm yellow ground lights in the courtyard have already illuminated the space, creating a cozy atmosphere.
It's very quiet, not like a restaurant, more like... a private club? Or someone's home?
"Let's go in." Jiang Yu led her inside.
Liu Yifei was even more surprised. Jiang Yu was so nervous that his hands were sweating? What kind of surprise was this?
Pushing open the heavy solid wood door, you enter a wide, high-ceilinged lobby, the lights dimmed so that you can barely see anything.
Liu Yifei squinted, adjusting her eyes to the dim light. She could only vaguely make out what appeared to be many figures in the hall...
She was wondering when suddenly...
Surprise! Happy Birthday!
The lights suddenly blazed on, not with a blinding white light, but with a warm, soft yellow glow, like the soft light of the setting sun.
At the same time, music started playing; it was her favorite old English song, "What a Wonderful World".
Ribbons and petals fell from the ceiling, like a rainbow rain.
The hall was full of people, all familiar faces.
At the front was Shu Chang, grinning from ear to ear, holding a confetti canister. Next to her were Jane Zhang and Yao Beina, these two best friends had also come. Jiang Xuerou led the "kids" from Light Chaser Pictures—Lu Yang, Shen Ao, Wang Zhi, Zhu Yilong, and Zhang Jin.
She saw her university classmates Wang Jia, Zhou Yang, Liu Jing, Luo Jin, Zhu Yawen, Ma Wenlong... She even saw her mother Liu Xiaoli and Jiang Yu's mother Zhou Huiwen!
The two mothers stood together, their smiles gentle and loving.
Everyone gathered in a semicircle, with a three-tiered cake in the center. The cake was creamy white, decorated with pale pink roses and silver sugar beads, and topped with a number 22 candle, its flame flickering.
A banner that read "HappyBirthdayXiXi" hung on the wall, with each letter strung together with a small light bulb, making it sparkle.
Balloons and flowers were everywhere, and the air was filled with the faint aroma of champagne and food.
Liu Yifei was completely stunned.
She stood there, her eyes wide open, her mouth slightly agape, as if a pause button had been pressed.
Happy birthday, Sisi!
Shu Chang was the first to rush over and hug her, planting a loud kiss on her cheek that left a faint lipstick mark. "Surprised? We've been keeping this from you all day! I was dying to tell you! I wanted to tell you yesterday!"
"You...you guys..." Liu Yifei finally found her voice, but she choked up, as if something was blocking her throat.
She looked at Shu Chang, then at Zhang Liangying and Yao Beina, then at her classmates, then at her colleagues, and finally her gaze settled on the two mothers; Liu Xiaoli was wiping her eyes with a handkerchief, while Zhou Huiwen gestured for her to come over.
Tears welled up instantly, falling in large drops that I couldn't stop.
She turned to look at Jiang Yu, her eyes red and swollen like a little rabbit's: "You arranged all of this? All of this?"
"Mmm." Jiang Yu put his arm around her shoulder, gently wiping away the tears from the corners of her eyes with his fingers, his movements as light as if handling a fragile treasure. "Do you like it?"
"I love it...I love it so much..." Liu Yifei said, choking back tears, then threw herself into his arms, burying her face in his chest, her voice muffled, "Thank you...thank you all...how could there be...so many people...how did you manage that..."
Jiang Yu patted her back, as if comforting a frightened little animal, his voice so gentle it could melt water: "Take your time, no rush. Happy birthday, my little birthday girl. Now, go and receive everyone's blessings."
The music changed to the classic Happy Birthday song, with a gentle piano intro.
Everyone started singing in unison, alternating between Chinese and English, their voices unified and warm: "Happy Birthday to You~ Happy Birthday to You~"
"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to FeiFei..."
Liu Yifei was pulled by Shu Chang and Zhang Liangying, one on each side, to the cake.
The candlelight flickered before my eyes, illuminating every smiling face.
She closed her eyes and clasped her hands together.
What is your wish at 22?
The candlelight was warm, and she was surrounded by the warm gazes and songs of her friends. Behind her was Jiang Yu's firm embrace and his hand on her shoulder.
She thought for a moment and silently said to herself:
My first wish is for my family and friends to be healthy, safe, and live a peaceful life.
My second wish is that I can continue to film the movies I love, encounter good roles, become a better actor, and live up to every expectation.
My third wish... is that Jiang Yu and I will always love and cherish each other like this, year after year, day and night. May our love be like the lock on the bridge in Paris, able to withstand wind and rain, and endure the test of time.
After making her wish, she took a deep breath and bent down to blow out the candles.
The 22 small candles went out with a puff, and a wisp of smoke rose up.
Applause and cheers erupted, and another round of confetti swept across the room.
Shu Chang conjured up another ribbon tube from somewhere and fired it at the ceiling.
With a "bang," golden confetti flew everywhere.
"Cut the cake! Cut the cake!" Lu Yang led the chant, and the others followed suit.
Liu Yifei picked up the silver cake knife next to the cake, her hand trembling slightly; she was too excited.
Jiang Yu took her hand from behind, his warm palm enveloping hers, and helped her make the first cut.
The blade sliced through the delicate frosting, making a soft rustling sound.
The first slice of cake was cut, revealing delicate cream, a soft cake base, and a filling of fresh strawberries and raspberry jam.
It's her favorite red velvet flavor, not the traditionally sweet one, but with reduced sugar to better suit her taste.
"Wow! President Jiang even knows the cake's flavor and sweetness so clearly!" Wang Jia exclaimed. She is now a teacher at the Beijing Film Academy and is particularly sensitive to details.
"Of course, our CEO Jiang knows Xixi inside and out," Shu Chang teased, winking. "From what she likes to eat to what size she wears, from her allergens to her menstrual cycle, there's nothing she doesn't know."
"Sing!" Liu Yifei blushed and gently pinched Jiang Yu's waist.
Jiang Yu remained expressionless, placed the first piece of cake on an exquisite bone china plate, and handed it to Liu Yifei: "The birthday girl eats first."
Then she turned to everyone and said, "Don't stand, sit or play as you like. Dinner will start soon. There's barbecue in the yard, and drinks are for everyone. Except for the birthday girl, she also needs to stay sober to receive the gifts."
The crowd laughed, and the atmosphere immediately relaxed.
The music changed to light jazz, and the waiters started pouring drinks for everyone.
Students surrounded Liu Yifei, hugging her and saying "Long time no see" and "Happy Birthday"; the colleagues from Light Chaser Pictures were more reserved, coming over one by one to offer their blessings.
Zhang Liangying and Yao Beina each put their arms around her, saying, "Xixi, we have to sing a duet later!"
Liu Yifei was surrounded by happiness, and her face was sore from smiling.
The villa's backyard was larger than I had imagined and had been meticulously decorated into a party paradise.
The lawn was mowed like a golf course, soft and smooth.
In the center were several long dining tables covered with off-white linen tablecloths, on which appetizers were already laid out: Spanish Iberian ham, as thin as cicada wings, glistening with marble-like oil under the light; a French cheese platter exuding a rich aroma; a colorful vegetable salad; and freshly baked baguettes still warm.
Next to it is a long bar counter, like a mini bar.
Red wine, white wine, champagne, beer, all kinds of soft drinks and juices are available.
Several professional bartenders in black vests and bow ties were shaking the jug, the sound of ice cubes clinking together was crisp and pleasant.
In the wine cabinet, Liu Yifei immediately spotted the bottle of Romanée-Conti, Jiang Yu's collection, which he usually couldn't bear to drink.
The most attractive spot is the barbecue area in the corner of the yard, where two professional charcoal grills are already lit, and the bright red charcoal blocks are emitting scorching heat.
The shelves are skewered with a variety of tempting ingredients: thick slices of Australian M9 steak with beautiful marbling that looks like a work of art; New Zealand lamb chops with rosemary; chicken wings brushed with a secret sauce; prawns and scallops neatly arranged; corn, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions... all in a riot of colors.
Two chefs wearing tall hats were busy at work, the charcoal fire crackling and the aroma already filling the courtyard.
"My God, the scale of this..." Liu Yifei stared in disbelief, linking her arm with Jiang Yu's. "How long did this take to prepare? How many people did they hire? This must have cost..."
Before she could finish speaking, Jiang Yu gently covered her mouth: "Don't worry about the money. It's your birthday, so it has to be the best."
"It started yesterday." Jiang Xuerou walked over with a glass of champagne. She had changed out of her daytime business attire and was now wearing a wine-red velvet gown, elegant yet relaxed. "President Jiang personally finalized the menu, wine list, and guest list. Even the barbecue chef was specially hired from the Ritz-Carlton. That chef originally had a wedding banquet today, but President Jiang insisted on borrowing him."
Liu Yifei turned to look at Jiang Yu, who was being talked to by his mother, his gaze never leaving her.
Sensing her gaze, he raised an eyebrow slightly and mouthed, "What's wrong?"
She shook her head and just smiled, her heart overflowing with joy.
"How are you feeling?" Shu Chang leaned over and handed her a glass of pink sparkling juice.
"Surprised? I haven't dared to send you any strange messages these past two days to keep it from you, it's been so hard! I almost let it slip yesterday!"
"Thank you, Changchang." Liu Yifei hugged her, sincerely. "And thank you everyone for going to so much trouble for me."
"Don't mention it." Shu Chang hugged her back, then lowered her voice mysteriously, "Let me tell you a secret, President Jiang not only arranged all of this, but there's also a special segment..."
Before she could finish speaking, Zhang Liangying, holding a microphone, grabbed her and pulled her away: "Come sing! There's an open-air karaoke bar here! Qianqian, you come too!"
Liu Yifei then noticed that a small stage had indeed been set up in another corner of the courtyard.
It has professional audio equipment, a standing microphone, and even a small control panel.
The music video for "What a Wonderful World" was playing on the large screen next to us, and Louis Armstrong's smiling face looked especially warm in the twilight.
"You even set up a karaoke bar?" She walked up to Jiang Yu and asked in a low voice, scratching his palm with her finger.
.
"Don't you like singing?" Jiang Yu said naturally, taking her mischievous fingers in his hand. "Besides, among your friends, Zhang Liangying and Yao Beina are professional singers. It would be a shame not to let them showcase their talents. And your college classmates, Luo Jin and Zhu Yawen, aren't they all from the Beijing Film Academy? They can sing and dance."
"You've thought of everything." Liu Yifei felt as sweet as if she had just eaten a spoonful of honey, the sweetness spreading from the tip of her tongue to her heart.
Dinner officially began.
There were no assigned seats; everyone could help themselves to food and chat in small groups.
Comfortable outdoor sofas and cushions were scattered on the lawn, with some people sitting and some standing, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Liu Yifei was surrounded by her friends and became a temporary gift-receiving station.
She had already seen the handmade photo album that Shu Chang gave her, but the custom-made microphone that Zhang Liangying gave her surprised her. It was a pure gold microphone with her name and the number "22" engraved on the handle, along with the words "AlwaysSingYourHeart" in small print.
The sheet music that Yao Beina gave her was even more special. It consisted of several songs that she had handwritten herself, which were suitable for Liu Yifei's vocal range, and each song had been adapted and annotated.
The thoughtful little gifts from the students piled up into a small mountain: Wang Jia gave a set of rare movie posters; Zhou Yang gave a whole perfume line; Liu Jing gave a calligraphy work by a master, "Yi Fei Wu Shuang"; Luo Jin and Zhu Yawen gave a professional tea set together, saying, "Make tea when you're tired from filming."
What touched her most was a jade bracelet given to her by both mothers.
Instead of the usual round beads, they are individual jade pieces carved into the shape of small lotus leaves, strung together with a delicate platinum chain.
Each lotus leaf is lifelike, lush and vibrant green, with excellent moisture content, and gleams with a warm luster under the light.
"Your mother and I chose this together." Zhou Huiwen helped her put it on. The jade felt cool against her wrist. "Lotus leaf, harmony," she said, "we hope you are safe, peaceful, and healthy."
"Thank you, Auntie. Thank you, Mom." Liu Yifei hugged one mother in each arm, her eyes reddening again.
"Silly child, you can't cry today, you have to smile." Liu Xiaoli patted her back, while wiping her own eyes.
The barbecue area became the liveliest spot.
Lu Yang and Shen Ao, two seemingly refined directors, are surprisingly good at grilling skewers and are serving Wang Zhi and Zhu Yilong.
Lu Yang pushed up his glasses and studied the cooking time with a serious expression: "These chicken wings need to be flipped over, otherwise they'll burn."
Shen Ao was much more unrestrained, grabbing five or six skewers in one hand and flipping them over the charcoal fire.
Zhang Jin then demonstrated his "kung fu barbecue," using a long pair of iron chopsticks to flip over a dozen skewers of chicken wings at the same time. His movements were clean and efficient; with a flick of his wrist, all the chicken wings flipped over in the air and landed steadily back on the rack, the oil dripping onto the charcoal fire, sizzling and emitting blue smoke.
"Brother Jin, it's a shame you're not running a barbecue restaurant with skills like that!" Zhu Yilong praised as he ate, his plate already piled high with food.
"No way, I only show my skills to my friends." Zhang Jin smiled憨厚ly, his forehead covered in sweat. "Running a barbecue restaurant is too tiring, I'd rather stick to acting."
Jiang Yu also rolled up his sleeves and joined the barbecue, unbuttoning the top two buttons of his shirt and rolling up his sleeves to his elbows, revealing his smooth forearms.
He was grilling steak, and his technique was so professional that even professional chefs would take notice: first, he used high heat to lock in the juices, then moved it to a low-temperature zone to grill slowly, and finally used a blowtorch to lightly sear the surface, creating a perfect caramelized layer.
Liu Yifei leaned closer to watch. He was using tongs to flip a steak over. Oil dripped onto the charcoal fire, causing flames to leap up and illuminating his focused profile.
"You can even do this?" she exclaimed in surprise, handing him a tissue to wipe his sweat.
"I learned it while studying abroad." Jiang Yu took the tissue and casually wiped his forehead. "Back then we were poor, and if we wanted to eat well, we had to cook for ourselves. Steak is the simplest; as long as the meat is good and the cooking time is right, it can't be bad."
He placed a slice of steak on her plate, just the right size for one bite. "Try it, medium-rare, if you like."
Liu Yifei used a fork to pick up the steak and put it in her mouth.
The outer layer is slightly charred and crispy, while the inside is tender and juicy with a rich meaty aroma. The simple seasoning of salt and black pepper perfectly highlights the flavor of the beef itself.
"Delicious!" Her eyes lit up, like stars were shining in them. "Even better than in restaurants!"
"Of course." Jiang Yu was very proud, with the corners of his mouth turned up. "The Jiang family's exclusive secret recipe is not to be passed on to outsiders."
As the two were talking, Shu Chang grabbed the microphone and shouted, her voice carrying throughout the courtyard through the speakers: "Birthday star! Come sing! Everyone's waiting! You can't just eat and not sing!"
The crowd started making a fuss.
Liu Yifei was a little embarrassed. Although she liked to sing, she was still a bit shy in front of so many people.
Jiang Yu gently nudged her back: "Go ahead, you're the boss today. Sing whatever you want."
She walked to the small stage, looked at the song selection screen for a moment, and then selected "A Little Happiness".
This song is the theme song written by Jiang Yu for the film "Bouquet". It has not been released yet and is sung by Yao Beina.
As the prelude begins, the clear sound of a piano flows out.
She held the custom-made microphone, looking at her friends in the audience, some sitting and some standing, all smiling at her.
Jiang Yu stood by the barbecue grill, holding a bottle of beer in his hand. He didn't drink it, but just looked at her with eyes as gentle as the moonlight tonight.
She began to sing, her voice clear and pure, drifting through the night air: "I hear raindrops falling on the green grass, I hear the distant school bell ringing..."
When she sang "It turns out you are the luck I want to keep the most," her eyes met Jiang Yu's.
He raised his beer bottle and made a toasting gesture to her, his smile, illuminated by the firelight and string lights, was so gentle it was heart-fluttering.
After the song ended, there was enthusiastic applause.
Zhang Liangying was the first to rush forward and grab the microphone: "No, no, singing alone is too boring, the birthday person has to sing a duet! Mr. Jiang! Let's have one! Everyone agrees, right?"
"One more! One more!" Zhu Yawen led the chant, and the others joined in clapping and stomping their feet.
Jiang Yu was unusually embarrassed, and his ears turned slightly red.
He didn't refuse, put down his beer and went over. Liu Yifei smiled and handed him another microphone.
"What are you singing?" she asked, her eyes sparkling.
"You decide," Jiang Yu said, his voice coming through the microphone, deep and magnetic.
Liu Yifei thought for a moment and typed "Today You're Going to Marry Me" into the song selection screen.
As the intro began, with its lively Latin rhythm and the sounds of hand drums and maracas, a chorus of whistles and cheers erupted from below.
"Wow! That's so direct!" Shu Chang shouted the loudest.
Liu Yifei blushed, as if she had applied rouge, but she didn't change the song.
She sang the female part first, her voice so sweet it could drip honey: "The blooming flowers of spring take away the sadness of winter, and the gentle breeze brings a romantic atmosphere..."
When it was Jiang Yu's turn, he actually sang quite well, with accurate pitch and a steady rhythm. Although he didn't have the skill and expressiveness of a professional singer, his sincerity was his strength.
He watched her sing, his eyes filled with both laughter and deep affection: "Hold hands and walk with me to create a happy life..."
When they sang the chorus, the two looked at each other and sang together, their smiles and sweetness impossible to hide.
In the audience, Shu Chang was already moved to tears, while Jiang Xuerou was frantically filming with her phone; this video was sure to make headlines.
Zhang Liangying and Yao Beina swayed to the rhythm on the side, while the students raised their phones to record videos, and even the barbecue chefs stopped what they were doing and laughed.
When the song ended, thunderous applause erupted, and some people even whistled.
Both mothers stood up and applauded loudly: "Great! Well sung! The emotion was spot on! Much better than those lip-syncing singers!"
""
Jiang Yu pulled Liu Yifei off the stage, his face slightly flushed; it was from the heat and a touch of excitement.
Liu Yifei leaned on his shoulder and laughed, able to hear the strong heartbeat in his chest: "I didn't expect you to sing so well."
"That's right, you're really good at hiding your abilities." Jiang Yu pretended to be smug, but tightened his grip on her arm.
The party continued to heat up.
Jane Zhang and Yao Beina took turns singing, and their professional performances brought the atmosphere to a climax.
Jane Zhang sang "Peerless Under Heaven," her high notes soaring to the heavens; Yao Beina sang "Maybe Tomorrow," her emotions overflowing, making listeners want to cry.
Later, people started requesting songs and singing randomly—pop songs, old songs, rock, folk songs... people requested everything.
Those who sang off-key, forgot their lines, or grabbed the microphone laughed so hard they almost fell over.
Luo Jin and Zhu Yawen sang "Brothers" together, but Luo Jin's voice cracked and he burst out laughing. Wang Zhi was pushed up to sing "Invisible Wings," which was surprisingly good. Zhu Yilong sang an English song with standard pronunciation and a gentle voice. Even Lu Yang and Shen Ao were pulled up to sing "Friends," which was off-key but sincere.
Liu Yifei sat next to Jiang Yu, holding a glass of sparkling juice. Watching this scene, her heart was full, as if she were being soaked in warm water.
Jiang Yu draped his arm over the back of her chair, a possessive and protective gesture.
He would occasionally lean in and say something to her, his warm breath brushing against her ear: or he would pick up some food for her, whatever she liked.
All the string lights in the yard lit up, their warm yellow glow forming a continuous expanse, like a galaxy on the ground.
The charcoal fire on the barbecue grill glowed a bright red, reflecting the smiling faces of everyone.
"Are you happy?" Jiang Yu asked, his voice clear amidst the noise.
"I'm happy." She leaned on his shoulder, able to smell the faint scent of aftershave and a hint of charcoal fire on him. "I'm especially happy."
""
"As long as you're happy." He kissed her cheek, a very light kiss, but she felt it.
It was late at night. Most of the cake had been eaten, a lot of wine had been drunk, and songs had been sung one after another.
The two mothers went home first, telling them not to stay out too late and to be careful.
Her colleagues also said goodbye one after another, and each of them gave Liu Yifei a big hug as they left, saying "Let's get together next time" and "Keep in touch".
In the end, only the classmates and their group of young people remained, along with Shu Chang, Zhang Liangying, and Yao Beina, her best friends.
Everyone stopped singing and sat on the sofas and carpets in the yard, looking at the night sky. It's rare to see stars in Beijing, and tonight there were a few particularly bright ones twinkling against the deep blue sky.
The courtyard quieted down, with only the occasional crackling of the charcoal fire and the faint chirping of insects in the distance.
"Sisi, you're 22 now, what are your thoughts?" Shu Chang asked, her cheeks flushed from drinking a little wine, leaning on Zhang Liangying's shoulder.
Liu Yifei thought for a moment, then said very seriously, "I feel...very happy. I have you as my friends, my loving family, and..."
She glanced at Jiang Yu, who was looking at her. "You have someone you love. You have a job you enjoy, and you have a future you look forward to. 22 years old, that's great, I'm content, and I'm looking forward to it."
"You've really moved me." Zhang Liangying raised her glass, which contained the last bit of champagne. "Come on, to our forever fairy Sisi, to 22 years old, to friendship, to love, to the future—cheers!"
"Cheers!"
The glasses clinked together, making a crisp sound that echoed in the night sky.
It was almost 1 a.m. when the party ended.
After seeing off her last friend, Shu Chang was helped away by Zhang Liangying and Yao Beina. She had drunk a bit too much and kept saying, "Xixi, I hope you will be happy" and "President Jiang, you must treat Xixi well."
Luo Jin and Wang Jia hailed a taxi and waved goodbye one by one; the barbecue chef and waiters packed up their things and also quietly left.
The courtyard quieted down, leaving only colorful ribbons, empty wine bottles, string lights that were still burning, and embers of charcoal fire.
The long table was littered with cups and plates, but there was a sense of warmth after the lively atmosphere.
Liu Yifei and Jiang Yu stood side by side, looking at this "battlefield".
A cool night breeze blew by, and she sneezed slightly.
Jiang Yu immediately took off his coat and draped it over her shoulders, still warm and smelling of his body: "Are you cold? Let's come inside."
"Let's stay a little longer." Liu Yifei pulled him close and leaned against him. "I want to remember every moment of tonight."
The two of them stood there, looking at the starry sky and the warm lights in the courtyard, neither of them saying a word.
The silence was filled with happiness, almost overflowing.
After a while, Jiang Yu suddenly took out a small, square, black box from his pocket.
"More gifts?" Liu Yifei's eyes widened in surprise. "I've already received so many gifts today..."
"The final gift." Jiang Yu opened the box; inside wasn't jewelry, but a key.
There was a card under the key, which was a copy of the property certificate, and the property owner was listed as "Liu Yifei".
"This villa," Jiang Yu placed the key in her palm, the brass gleaming warmly in the moonlight, "is a 22nd birthday present for you. It's registered in your name; the paperwork was just completed today."
Liu Yifei was completely stunned. She looked up at him, her eyes filled with shock, emotion, and bewilderment: "This is too precious...this..."
Jiang Yu cupped her face in his hands, making her look into his eyes. "Qianqian, I want to give you a home. Not a house, but a home. A home with warmth, laughter, friends coming and going, love, and life. This is it."
He pointed to the yard: "We can have barbecues and parties here."
Pointing inside, he said, "There's a media room where we can watch movies together; a music room where you can sing; a study where we can read and work together; a kitchen where, although my cooking isn't great, I can learn; and..."
Jiang Yu paused, his voice softening, "This house is waiting for its mistress to arrive."
Liu Yifei's tears fell again, this time tears of happiness.
She threw herself into his arms, hugged him tightly, buried her face in his chest, and said in a muffled voice, "Jiang Yu... why are you so good to me..."
"Because I love you." Jiang Yu hugged her tightly, resting his chin on the top of her head. "I want to give you the best."
Liu Yifei looked up at him, her eyes blurry with tears.
Under the moonlight, his eyes shone like stars and were as affectionate as the ocean.
"Jiang Yu..."
"Um?
"
"I love you," she said, very seriously and solemnly, "I love you so much."
"I love you too." Jiang Yu lowered his head and kissed her, a very deep kiss filled with love, a promise, and boundless hope for the future.
A night breeze blows, and the string lights in the courtyard sway gently, as if dancing, as if blessing them.
The fragrance of osmanthus blossoms grew stronger, sweet and infused into the night.
My 22nd birthday, the day I went live on Weibo, a surprise party, barbecue and karaoke, blessings from friends, the company of my loved ones, and... a home.
Liu Yifei leaned against Jiang Yu's chest, looking at the starry sky, and thought: This is probably the most concrete, complete, and sweetest form of happiness.