WHCTIL - 73

Chapter 73: Epilogue – Jiang Chuan and Qin Tang (4)

As Jiang Chuan stepped out of the airport, he immediately spotted Qin Tang standing outside. She was wrapped in a smoky gray scarf, revealing only half of her face, but she caught sight of him at once.

The airport was unusually crowded today, with throngs of people gathered together—it was a fan group welcoming a popular celebrity.

Qin Tang was jostled several times by overzealous fans and was pushed to the side.

Jiang Chuan noticed this, frowned, and strode over quickly. Wrapping his arm around her shoulder, he asked softly, “Are you alright?”

Qin Tang leaned into his shoulder and shook her head, “I’m fine.”

Then, with a faint smile, she slipped her hands into the pockets of his coat—they were warm.

With one hand carrying the luggage and the other holding her close, Jiang Chuan guided her out of the crowd. He glanced down at her from time to time, “Did you drive here?”

Qin Tang nodded, “Yes, it’s in the parking lot.”

Jiang Chuan took the car keys from her hand, “I’ll drive.”

Qin Tang protested, “No, I’ll do it. You just got off the plane...”

“Not tired.”

Qin Tang glanced at him and silently slid into the passenger seat. Out of habit, she reached for her seatbelt, but suddenly, she felt herself being pulled back. Her waist tightened as she was lifted and placed onto his lap.

Jiang Chuan smiled at her, “Why do you look so preoccupied?”

She hadn’t even cracked a smile upon seeing him.

Qin Tang paused, “I’m not unhappy.”

Jiang Chuan raised an eyebrow, “Then smile for me.”

Qin Tang: “…”

She had just been thinking about whether to go directly to her parents’ place or return to her apartment first. Jiang Chuan had taken an early flight, and it was still quite early.

Seeing that he was still staring at her, Qin Tang looped her arms around his neck and tilted her head to kiss his lips.

He didn’t move, simply enjoying the moment.

Just as she was about to pull away, he suddenly took control, fiercely nibbling on her lips.

After a long while, Jiang Chuan released her. His hand slid out from under her shirt, pinching her earlobe lightly as he whispered in her ear, “I’ll deal with you tonight.”

Qin Tang chuckled softly, leaning closer to his ear, “Alright…”

Jiang Chuan stared intently at her.

Qin Tang slid off his lap and returned to the passenger seat, “Let’s go back to my place first. We can head over later this afternoon.”

The last time Jiang Chuan had come to Beijing was six months ago. Back then, he had practically forced his way into staying at her place and pressured her into acknowledging their relationship.

Who would have thought that this visit would be to meet her parents?

When Qin Tang opened the door to her home, warm air greeted them. She exhaled deeply, removing her scarf, coat, and sweater. Jiang Chuan also stripped down to just one layer, wrapping his arms around her from behind. As he brushed aside her hair, preparing to kiss her neck, his gaze suddenly froze.

Qin Tang turned to look at him and realized he was staring at the closet.

Jiang Chuan gazed at the closet, somewhat lost in thought. The motorcycle models were gone, replaced by a few artistic photo frames.

He gently rubbed her earlobe between his fingers.

“When did you put them away?”

“Before my last trip to Xi’an.”

Jiang Chuan smiled, lowering his head to nip at her soft, pink earlobe. His voice was hoarse, “Why?”

Qin Tang squirmed, trying to avoid his teasing touch. She nearly let out a sound, her voice trembling, “You didn’t like them, did you?”

“Did I ever say that?”

“No, but I could tell…” His tongue traced the curve of her ear, nibbling on her earlobe. She trembled uncontrollably, “It tickles…”

“Where does it tickle?” His hand slipped under her shirt, cupping her soft breast and teasing the tip. “What time are we heading over this afternoon?”

“Three o’clock…”

“We’ve got time.”

Jiang Chuan scooped her up and carried her toward the master bedroom.

He had stayed here before but never entered the master bedroom, not even catching a glimpse of it.

Qin Tang wrapped her arms around his neck, knowing what he was thinking. As they reached the door, he pressed the handle, but before he could proceed, she kicked the door open with her foot.

The master bedroom was spacious, featuring a circular princess bed with pale pink sheets.

A very girlish color.

Jiang Chuan raised an eyebrow, “Do you like pink?”

Qin Tang pursed her lips, “My mom likes it. She picked out the bed and bedding.”

When she was younger, she had liked it too. Now, though she wasn’t particularly fond of it, she hadn’t bothered to change it.

A man entering a woman’s room always carried a different significance.

Seeing Qin Tang lying on the pink bed, Jiang Chuan found it incredibly stimulating. He pressed down on her, and she wrapped her legs around his waist. Jiang Chuan chuckled lowly, “Did you miss me?”

Qin Tang nodded, reaching to remove his clothes, “What about you?”

“I’ll show you.” His deep voice brushed against her ear.

Their bodies entwined, breaths growing ragged, every inch of skin rubbing against each other, sending shivers of pleasure deep into their bones.

Afterward, Jiang Chuan carried Qin Tang to take a shower, then returned to the bed, pulling the blanket over them. He caressed her skin, squeezing her buttocks. Qin Tang flinched slightly, “Don’t move…”

He had been rough earlier.

Jiang Chuan chuckled, “Want to sleep for a bit?”

Qin Tang’s eyes were half-closed, feeling drowsy but not particularly sleepy. She looked up at him, “Let’s talk.”

“What do you want to talk about?”

“About my parents. Later… my dad might make things difficult for you.”

“It’s fine.” To marry his daughter, there would naturally be a price to pay. Jiang Chuan understood this well, “I’m prepared.”

“Then I’ll tell you more.”

“Alright, go ahead.”

…

After lunch and a short rest, the two headed back to the Qin family villa.

The Qin family was wealthy and didn’t care much for gifts, but Jiang Chuan had still brought some cigarettes, alcohol, and nutritional supplements. The gifts were a bit cliché, but better than nothing.

To Qin Tang’s surprise, he had also brought Black Tiger along. After the case was resolved, Jiang Chuan hadn’t asked for anything except the dog. Cao Sheng had arranged for someone to send Black Tiger to Beijing and then to the Qin residence.

Qin Tang patted Black Tiger, “Buri was with my parents since they started dating. They raised him for over a decade, and their bond was deep. After Buri passed away, my dad stopped keeping dogs.”

People had gifted dogs before, but Qin Sen always sent them back.

Black Tiger was stronger and healthier than Buri.

Jiang Chuan looked at her, “Maybe your dad will like Black Tiger.” 

Qin Tang smiled, “Perhaps.” 

The front door opened, and Qin Yue walked out, “What are you two dawdling for? Hurry up and come in.” He stared at Jiang Chuan, raising an eyebrow as he glanced at Qin Tang. 

Qin Tang pointed to Jiang Chuan, “Say hello.” 

Qin Yue: “What should I call him?” 

“Jiang Chuan.” 

Thinking about the beating he had endured because of this man, Qin Yue was reluctant to call him “brother-in-law”—after all, nothing was set in stone yet. After a few seconds, he settled on, “Brother Jiang.” 

Jiang Chuan chuckled, patting his shoulder, “I heard you got beaten up because of me?” 

Qin Yue: “…” 

Why did he have to bring up such an embarrassing topic right to his face? He shot a glare at Qin Tang—how could she casually mention something like that! 

Qin Tang pretended not to notice. What was there to hide? In their courtyard, which boy hadn’t been beaten at some point? 

Just as Qin Yue was about to say something, his attention was drawn to Black Tiger. His eyes lit up, “This dog is pretty impressive.” 

Qin Tang said, “You handle him. Let’s go inside first.” 

As soon as she finished speaking, Jing Xin appeared at the door to greet them, “You’re here! Come in quickly.” She glanced at Jiang Chuan and smiled, “Come in and sit down.” 

Jing Xin was well-preserved, looking youthful and elegant. Her demeanor made her appear far younger than her fifty years. Jiang Chuan greeted her with a respectful “Aunt,” and just as he raised his head, he noticed two elderly figures standing behind her. 

Qin Tang smiled and walked over, “Grandpa, Grandma, what brings you here?” 

Grandma whispered softly, “Yueyue told us.” 

Qin Tang understood immediately—with her grandparents present, her father would likely behave more restrainedly. 

Her younger brother really cared for her. 

Qin Tang’s grandparents looked at Jiang Chuan. They found him handsome, sturdy, and already knew about his background. For elderly people, a man’s integrity, good character, and how he treated women were the most important qualities. 

Most importantly, Qin Tang liked him. 

Qin Sen sat in the living room, watching TV without sparing a glance in their direction. 

Jiang Chuan approached him, “Uncle, hello.” 

Only then did Qin Sen raise his eyes to look at him, responding indifferently, “Hmm.” 

Qin Tang called out sweetly, “Dad,” with a hint of coquettishness. 

Jing Xin walked over and discreetly kicked Qin Sen’s leg, signaling him to be more polite. Finally, Qin Sen gave Jiang Chuan a proper look and said, “Sit down.” 

The aunt was already preparing dinner in the kitchen, a pot of soup simmering gently on low heat. Jiang Chuan recognized the scent—it was the cured lamb ribs his father had brought back for Qin Tang before. 

Qin Yue led Black Tiger inside and pointed at the dog, saying, “Dad, Brother Jiang brought this for you.” 

Qin Sen froze for a moment, looking at Black Tiger. 

Even Jing Xin was surprised. 

The year after Buri passed away, Qin Sen had asked her if they should get another dog. Jing Xin had declined, and they hadn’t kept one since. 

Qin Sen harrumphed, “Your mother mentioned wanting a poodle recently. She likes poodles.” 

Jing Xin: “…” 

Recently, Jing Xin had indeed mentioned wanting to adopt another dog—but she had suggested a Samoyed, not a poodle! When had she ever expressed liking poodles?! 

Qin Tang knew her father was deliberately being difficult. 

Qin Yue bluntly said, “Poodles? The kind that’s always in heat, humping everything in sight, including shoes? I think it’s better not to get one…” 

It was just too cringeworthy to even think about. 

Men generally preferred larger breeds, and Qin Yue was no exception. He didn’t believe his father would actually get a poodle, nor did his mother like them. 

Qin Sen was furious. This brat was undermining him at every turn, “What do you know!” 

Qin Yue: “…” 

Fine, he’d shut up. 

Jiang Chuan interjected calmly, “Poodles aren’t bad either.” 

Qin Sen frowned, and Jing Xin pinched him from behind, smiling as she asked, “What’s this dog’s name?” 

Jiang Chuan: “Black Tiger.” 

Jing Xin nodded approvingly, “That’s great. Let’s keep Black Tiger. As for poodles…” She glanced at Qin Sen and teased, “If you like them, we can get one too.” 

Qin Sen: “…” 

Everyone seemed to side with Jiang Chuan, leaving Qin Sen fighting a losing battle alone. 

After enduring an entire evening, exhausted, Qin Sen retreated to his study after dinner, choosing to avoid the situation altogether. 

Jing Xin followed him, asking, “What are you doing?” 

Qin Sen: “Nothing. It wasn’t easy for me when I married you. Your father scolded me constantly back then. Now that I’m the father-in-law, I can’t let Jiang Chuan off so easily.” 

Jing Xin looked at him speechlessly, “Is that really why?” 

Qin Sen: “What else?” 

Jing Xin sighed, “...You’re becoming more childish as you grow older.” 

Qin Sen: “...” 

Jiang Chuan stayed in Beijing for a few days, during which Qin Sen relentlessly tested his future son-in-law. One day he criticized this, the next day that. Despite Qin Tang throwing several tantrums and pleading with her father, it didn’t work. 

Jing Xin consoled her, “It’s fine. Let your father have his fun for a few days. He didn’t have it easy back then either.” 

Qin Tang: “...Alright.” 

Jiang Chuan’s patience was remarkable—he endured everything Qin Sen threw at him. 

Jiang Chuan cooked dinner for them twice. In terms of culinary skills, no one in the Qin household could match him. Qin Sen enjoyed the meal and remarked, “An An can’t cook, but you make up for that.” 

Qin Tang turned to her father and said, “Jiang Chuan is an excellent cook.” 

Qin Sen: “Are you saying my cooking isn’t good?” 

Qin Tang exchanged a helpless glance with Jing Xin. Mother and daughter both sighed, and Qin Tang replied diplomatically, “Of course it’s good.” 

Qin Yue rolled his eyes. He wondered how long his father intended to torment Jiang Chuan… 

He was genuinely worried that his father might run out of tricks and challenge Jiang Chuan to a fight. 

To his dismay, Qin Sen actually instructed Qin Yue to spar with Jiang Chuan at Uncle Zhou’s martial arts studio. Qin Yue had studied taekwondo before, but... 

Qin Yue protested, “Dad, I’m still growing! Brother Jiang used to be a police officer. His physical fitness and build are far superior to mine. You can’t be this cruel to your own son, can you?” 

Qin Sen sneered, “Are you backing out?” 

Qin Yue: “...How dare I!”

Without a doubt, the twenty-year-old Qin Yue, who was still growing, stood no chance against Jiang Chuan. 

Fortunately, Jiang Chuan held back, so Qin Yue didn’t end up looking too bad—his handsome face remained intact. 

After a week, Qin Sen finally ran out of tricks to torment Jiang Chuan. 

Qin Tang breathed a sigh of relief and pulled Jiang Chuan back to her place. 

Jiang Chuan sat on the couch with Qin Tang in his arms. They kissed deeply and tenderly. Qin Tang whispered softly, “Are you leaving soon?” 

Jiang Chuan: “Mm.” 

Qin Tang licked her lips and said, “In a month, I’ll come over to take photos. Will you have time to accompany me?” 

Jiang Chuan smiled, rubbing her earlobe, “Of course. I couldn’t go last time, but next time, wherever you want to go, I’ll be there.” 

“Then I’ll come as soon as possible.” 

“Alright.” 

He tightened his embrace, burying his head in the crook of her neck, inhaling her unique scent—not perfume, but something naturally fragrant and comforting. “Tang Tang,” he murmured softly. 

“Mm?” 

“By the end of the year, I’ll try to transfer my work to Beijing.” 

Qin Tang froze for a moment, lowering her gaze to look at him. She couldn’t see his eyes. “What about the volunteer station?” 

Jiang Chuan lifted his head, “Lü An is there, and I’ll visit often. It won’t affect anything.” 

He smiled faintly, “I promised your father that I’d help you manage the An Yi Foundation together.” 

“My father talked to you about it?” 

“Mm.” 

… 

Qin Sen had said, “An An spends most of her time in Beijing, and you’re in Xi’an. This long-distance arrangement isn’t sustainable. If you’re a man, figure something out. If you need financial support, I can help. Also, the An Yi Foundation is something Jing Xin and I poured our hearts into. Right now, An An is managing it alone, and it’s exhausting. We can’t guarantee that something like what happened before won’t occur again. I hope you can stay and take over.” 

Qin Sen wanted Jiang Chuan to take charge of the An Yi Foundation, ensuring it wouldn’t be exploited and would remain clean forever. 

… 

Jiang Chuan pressed his forehead against hers, “Why aren’t you saying anything?” 

Qin Tang replied, “It’s fine. You decide.” In truth, she didn’t care about the distance. She hadn’t thought about it before and respected all his decisions, just as he respected hers. 

Jiang Chuan leaned down to kiss her. 

“Mm.” 

The decision was easy. Wherever she was, he would be there too.