Chapter 38

Chapter 38

Bai Chen waited outside for quite some time before Xie Yilin finally came out.

The two got into the car, and Xiao Ling immediately took the wheel, driving off. It wasn’t until they had left the palace grounds that his expression relaxed slightly, and a smile appeared on his face.

It seemed the palace was a tense place for him too.

Moreover, Bai Chen noticed that when he and Xiao Ling were waiting for Xie Yilin outside, although Xiao Ling chatted with him a few times, he was clearly distracted.

The car left the palace grounds and entered the bustling streets of the capital planet. The streets were packed with traffic and bustling crowds, exuding a lively atmosphere, as if the city had come alive. Bai Chen glanced out the window and suddenly said, “Hold on, can we stop for a sec?”

He pointed to a spot near the window and said with a smile, “I wanna grab something.”

It was a little snack stand.

The Omega hurried over, jogging lightly, and came back shortly, holding something in his hands. He hopped back into the car, barely sitting down before offering it to Xie Yilin like a treasure, “Try this!”

Xie Yilin glanced down.

It was a steaming sesame ball, a local snack, fried to a golden hue, coated in sesame seeds, looking both fragrant and sweet.

It even had a toothpick stuck in it for easy grabbing.

Bai Chen grabbed one for himself, eating it with satisfaction, his eyes crinkling into a smile, “My mom used to say something.”

“If the sky’s falling, better eat something good.”

“With a full belly, you’ll have the strength to face anything.”

It was a simple truth.

Xie Yilin grabbed one too.

First, the aroma of sesame, then the soft pastry, biting into the middle, the ball flattened, releasing the filling, and the sweetness flooded his mouth.

Just one bite.

It was like stepping from a freezing winter into a warm, human world.

Bai Chen didn’t outright comfort him, but it was clear he’d noticed Xie Yilin was in a bad mood.

This was simple food, its taste maybe not as fancy or refined as a grand meal. But in that moment, what he tasted wasn’t just food, but a feeling he couldn’t find in the palace.

...And his words.

Xie Yilin ate just one, then reached out, grasping Bai Chen’s fingers, holding them tight, as if holding the whole world.

On a cold, snowy mountain stood a forgotten temple. First, the snow stopped, and sunlight poured in; then the snow melted, and spring came; later, the god’s statue stirred, unable to bear the once lonely, cold, and monotonous world, it awoke.

Unknown to anyone, a seed had been carried by the wind, quietly falling into the temple, sprouting into a tree. Its branches reached high, fresh green leaves swaying, full of life, blooming with snow-white petals, as beautiful as the snowflakes outside, but entirely different.

Warm and touching, bringing comfort to anyone who saw it.

Anyone would be moved.

Even wanting to disguise oneself, to change the cold environment—just because this tree needed sunlight, rain, and a warm climate, all conditions that were incompatible with this place, to grow freely and smoothly.

So, to conceal the dark shadows, only giving him the best part.

He deserves to be treasured and treated with the utmost care.

In the Alpha's cool gray gaze, there was already the deepest, most profound emotion. He reached up to hold Bai Chen's hand; the Omega's hand was slightly smaller, slender and fair, with delicate fingers. He gazed silently for a moment before releasing his hand.

Xie Yilin closed his eyes briefly, then opened them and murmured, "It's delicious."

"How about we go to that barbecue place you like?"

"Really? Wow!"

Bai Chen lit up with excitement, "Sure!"

To Bai Chen's surprise, Xie Yilin still remembered that barbecue meal.

Last time they went, they were too preoccupied and barely ate, leaving quickly. This time, Bai Chen was determined to eat to his heart's content.

Xiao Ling turned with a grin and teased, "Your Highness, Mr. Bai, mind if I tag along?"

"I promise I won't intrude. I'll just hang out in the hall, outside your private room, keeping watch... and maybe sneak a bite of lamb, alright?"

Lamb? Xiao Ling even knew they served lamb there.

The three of them in the car quickly changed course, heading to the barbecue restaurant near the square. It was around five in the afternoon, nearing dinner time. Bai Chen had already swapped his formal attire for casual clothes after meeting the emperor.

He even deliberately wore a hat, pulling the brim low, and cheerfully walked into the barbecue restaurant, requesting a private room.

The owner, as busy as last time, didn't recognize them but gave Xie Yilin a lingering glance. The three entered the private room, and as Xiao Ling was about to leave, Bai Chen called out with a smile, "Adjutant Xiao, stay."

"His Highness and I are here, and it's awkward for the waiter to come in. Why don't you help us with the barbecue?"

Though he framed it as needing help with the barbecue, Bai Chen actually felt bad about Xiao Ling eating alone outside.

Xiao Ling understood and was touched. He glanced at Xie Yilin—Bai Chen's thoughtfulness was one thing, but it was up to His Highness.

To his surprise, Xie Yilin agreed.

Xiao Ling: ...Well, now he wasn't so sure about eating.

This was their private moment, and he... he really didn't want to intrude!

But as he hesitated, Xie Yilin and Bai Chen had already taken their seats. Moreover, His Highness the Crown Prince shot him a cold look, as if saying, 'I let you stay, so why are you still standing there?'

Xiao Ling: Alright, I'm just here to play waiter, got it.

But seriously, Mr. Bai's words really hold sway.

And, His Highness actually suggested eating barbecue.

Could it be...

His eyes rolled, but he didn't dare to think further.

The waiter came in, bringing plates, utensils, bowls, and many side dishes.

The table was filled with a dazzling array of perfectly tender meat slices sizzling with oil, the aroma of barbecue slowly wafting out, floating in the delicate private room. Bai Chen's eyes were fixed on the grill, and he subconsciously licked his lips.

It smells so good, I want to eat.

The little glutton was having a hard time, so he simply looked away, saying, "Actually, this place has been around for a long time. It's a century-old shop."

"Oh?"

Xiao Ling, while flipping the meat, became intrigued, "Isn't it said that it was opened by some... retired film legend? Is he very old?"

"No, no."

Bai Chen laughed and gossiped with him, "The original owner of the shop was the movie star’s great-grandfather. That is to say, if the director hadn’t happened to come into this shop for barbecue and met the movie star who was helping out at home by waiting tables, he could have taken over the shop several years earlier."

"...The movie star struggled for half his life, only to come back and inherit the family business, which is kind of funny."

So that's how it was.

As Bai Chen spoke, he brought up his own story, "When I was little, I had barbecue here with my mom, so I know a bit about it."

Xiao Ling had also seen Bai Chen’s profile and knew he had a mother, though they didn’t live together.

He nodded and followed up, "Is your mom still in your hometown?"

Bai Chen casually replied, "No, she’s at a sanatorium on Cangxu Star."

"Cangxu Star..."

Xiao Ling suddenly felt that the name of the planet sounded very familiar.

He recalled for a while and suddenly remembered—the sanatoriums on Cangxu Star were quite famous in the empire.

Cangxu Star was remote and resource-poor, so it had always been overlooked. But about a hundred years ago, a unique substance was discovered there.

This substance didn’t work outside of Cangxu Star, so it could only be used locally. Through research, scientists found that long-term exposure to this substance was very beneficial for Omegas’ bodies.

Especially for Omegas who had lost their glands.

Thus, many sanatoriums catering specifically to Omegas were established on Cangxu Star. Before this, Omegas who lost their glands would become physically weak, suffer from hormonal imbalances, and have significantly shortened lifespans.

Bai Chen’s profile didn’t mention a father, and he took his mother’s surname...

Xiao Ling had a vague suspicion, and his first reaction was to look at Xie Yilin.

He remembered that he and His Highness had reviewed information about Cangxu Star together a few years ago.

Xie Yilin appeared not to have heard their conversation, his expression remained indifferent as he picked up a piece of grilled meat and placed it into Bai Chen’s bowl.

"...Ah, thank you, Your Highness."

Bai Chen was briefly surprised, then ate it without hesitation. The rich flavor immediately overwhelmed his taste buds, and he closed his eyes in satisfaction, about to speak when suddenly, footsteps were heard at the door.

Someone stopped at the door, hesitated briefly, then knocked and said cautiously, "Hello, I’m here to deliver some side dishes."

Side dishes?

Bai Chen glanced at the table, one, two, three, four... eight side dishes were already there, why would more be necessary?

He couldn’t help but look at Xie Yilin, who looked slightly stern. He didn’t speak, merely tapped the table lightly with his fingertip.

Xiao Ling immediately stood up and walked to the door.

The person at the door, having waited for a response for a long time, grew impatient. He knocked again and said, "Guest?"

Xiao Ling made a motion as if reaching for his waist.

Bai Chen: "...It's a bit exciting."

His eyes widened slightly, and those sparkling little glimmers appeared again. Xie Yilin noticed them, and they warmed his heart.

However...

He reached out and took Bai Chen's hand again, whispering softly, "Not scared?"

"Not at all."

Bai Chen smiled sweetly, confidently saying, "With Your Highness here, what do I have to fear?"

Even if the Federation army attacked, he wouldn’t be afraid—not with His Highness by his side.

In Xie Yilin's heart, it felt like a kitten's soft paw had gently patted him.

It didn’t hurt at all—instead, it was ticklish, tugging at the depths of his heart.

The person outside the door couldn’t wait any longer.

The sound of shuffling footsteps was noticeable. He tentatively leaned closer and asked, "Guest? Could you open the door?"

Xiao Ling paused, then whispered, "...Seems like it’s just one person."

He cracked the door open slightly and peeked through the gap.

The person outside wasn’t a waiter—no tray in hand. Seeing the door open, he perked up immediately, "Hello, I’m from Starry Media. Sorry to bother you, but could I..."

Ah, so it’s a reporter.

His Highness had just returned to the capital planet—how did they follow him here? Had his whereabouts been tracked?

Xiao Ling’s heart skipped a beat. Security was no small matter, especially now, during this critical time for His Highness.

So he played it cool, "Oh, you’re from the media? How’d you get here?"

The reporter looked a bit embarrassed, "In our line of work, we always have people at the spaceport. When we saw the royal ship, we... kept an extra eye out."

He added nervously, "Could I... get an exclusive interview? Ten minutes—no, five minutes is enough!"

At first, he was terrified, thinking this might cost him his life.

But recalling those variety show episodes, he thought: His Highness might look intimidating—and he was—but he was still just a person, an ordinary Alpha.

Look at how he treats his partner! Look at how Bai Chen interacts with him! So sweet.

Watching them, he even forgot his editor’s assignment—to watch the show and write an article—and started shipping the couple.

Ah, it was too good to resist. Even an old dog like him wanted to fall in love.

Short on cash, he gritted his teeth and followed, hoping to seize this opportunity.

An exclusive interview! Even a few sentences would do! The first scoop could mean promotions, raises—everything!

It’s fine—His Highness is human, after all!

And most importantly... Bai Chen is here too!

If all else fails, interviewing Bai Chen would guarantee a hit tonight.

The sharp-eyed man tried to peek inside, but Xiao Ling blocked him firmly, leaving him unable to see anything. He felt a bit disheartened, thinking he might have wasted his trip. But Xiao Ling turned around, said a few words, and then let him in.

Xie Yilin gave his consent.

Maybe he was in a good mood today, or maybe he had other reasons. But at this moment, he actually agreed.

The part-time journalist quickly slipped in, afraid the door might close any second.

He was cautious, careful not to make any mistakes, and stood nervously in the corner.

Coming from a humble background, he wasn't used to formalities. He finally remembered to bow, but his attempt was clumsy, more like a leg spasm.

Bai Chen couldn't help but chuckle.

He could see the guy was nervous.

The Omega smiled and asked, "Brother, you're from Star Media, aren't you? May I know your name?"

He seemed to be the only one in the room who knew the media—Xiao Ling didn't count; he was new to the royal office.

"Hello, Mr. Bai, I'm Wang."

Brother Wang relaxed a little, his tone turning flattering. "Mr. Bai, when you first started out, our media interviewed you. It was during 'The Cliff.' Remember?"

"Oh..."

Bai Chen remembered.

That did happen. But back then, he wasn't famous, and it was a short interview.

However, with this connection, it was easier to start a conversation. Bai Chen thought for a moment and recalled some details, politely saying, "So, Brother Wang, are you here to interview His Highness?"

Brother Wang nodded eagerly.

"Hmm..." Bai Chen wasn't sure if Xie Yilin would agree to the interview, but since he had already allowed him in...

Xie Yilin said indifferently, "It's fine."

Bai Chen was a bit surprised.

He couldn't imagine Xie Yilin giving an interview, but at the same time, it didn't feel entirely out of place.

He must have his reasons, Bai Chen thought.

The Omega naturally stepped aside to make space. Brother Wang swallowed hard, moved closer, but stopped about a meter away. Any closer, and he really wouldn't dare.

Then he began the interview.

After some preliminary questions, he turned on the recording device.

"Your Highness, hello, I'm Wang Qi."

Brother Wang wasn't entirely unprepared. He pulled out a script, planning to follow the usual interview questions. "It's a great honor to interview you today."

He had a clear idea, focusing mainly on the variety show.

"Everyone is very curious, why did you decide to participate in the variety show 'The Irresistible Ta'?"

"Given your status and position, participating in an entertainment-style dating show must have come with many concerns, right?"

As soon as this question was asked, Bai Chen perked up; he was also very curious.

Xie Yilin paused.

The man's back remained habitually straight, his demeanor still carrying an unmistakable military bearing. His cool gray gaze swept over, lingering slightly on Bai Chen beside him before gently shifting away.

"No reservations," he said calmly. "I agreed to join this show because of Bai Chen."

"The show invited him. At that time, the news of our marriage had not yet been officially announced."

"He's an actor, and appearing on variety shows is part of his career goals. As his partner, I am willing to support his work."

"This has nothing to do with my status or position."

Bai Chen couldn't help but click his tongue: Wow, His Highness really knows how to put things.

Old Wang was stunned, momentarily at a loss for words.

This feeling... how do you describe it? It's like even the world's richest man has to pick up his kids and do chores... Even His Highness the Crown Prince has to support his partner's career.

It's still pretty unbelievable.

"Then..." Old Wang composed himself and continued, "Your Highness, there's another question on everyone's mind."

"If you don't mind, could you tell us how you two decided to get married?"

Meeting by chance, falling in love by opportunity, but deciding to marry—that's really tough.

Xie Yilin's fingers interlaced, unconsciously rubbing them together a few times.

He looked at Bai Chen again. Bai Chen thought Xie Yilin might not be good at lying, not able to act like he could.

However, Xie Yilin spoke.

"It was because of that online public opinion."

"Oh..." Old Wang asked curiously, "Was it after that variety show, when Bai Chen got some hate from anti-fans?"

Xie Yilin nodded.

"Correct."

The man's gaze shifted away, but Bai Chen could tell he was still paying attention to him, seemingly very concerned about the Omega's reaction to these words.

His cool gray gaze stayed indifferent, like nothing could shake it. But under Bai Chen's watchful eyes, Xie Yilin said calmly, "I'm a soldier, so I'm pretty careful when choosing a partner."

Before coming back to the capital, he'd never thought about marriage.

"Meeting Bai Chen was really an unexpected twist."

From a group of highly compatible Omegas, he chose the only one with a commoner status—Bai Chen. In his profile, the beautiful Omega had a sweet smile.

"At first, I had a lot of concerns."

He didn't want his partner getting a death notice, or seeing an innocent Omega get hurt.

"There were also a lot of outside factors to think about."

Status, position, past, present—all these things loomed like dark clouds, pressing down heavily.

"But at that moment, I suddenly realized that Bai Chen needed me."

No matter the obstacles or difficulties, he had become his light—a small star in the vast darkness, occupying his mind in an instant, making it impossible to let go.

"Maybe I can't change how the world sees things."

Perhaps he still has a long road ahead, with many challenges to overcome.

"But as an Alpha, I knew I had to stand by my Omega in that moment."

He needed Bai Chen, needed to hold onto that faint, sweet scent of oranges.

"So, we decided to get married."

...It was a good idea.

Bai Chen was completely floored.

He hadn’t expected Xie Yilin to be so skilled at this.

His words were just as compelling as his singing and acting, if not more. Even the minor incident of being attacked by anti-fans, unrelated to Xie Yilin, was woven in so seamlessly it felt entirely real.

They say the best lies are mostly fiction with a sprinkle of truth. Who’d have guessed the Crown Prince of the Empire would pull such a move?

It felt like he was seeing a whole new side of Xie Yilin for the first time. Bai Chen stared at him, the barbecue completely forgotten.

The interviewer, Old Wang, was just as shocked.

Wow, just wow. Bai Chen’s sweet, and the Crown Prince? Absolutely impressive.

Those in the know see it as an interview; others might think you’re just flaunting your love!

He couldn’t help but recall a line from a gossip magazine he’d read years ago and blurted it out.

"Your Highness, are you saying..."

"Favoritism is about preference, but love means standing by someone, right?"

A bright smile lit up Xie Yilin’s eyes.

He’d been holding Bai Chen’s hand the entire time, gently squeezing his palm.

His cool gray gaze was tender, unwavering as he gave a firm, positive answer.

"Absolutely."

Old Wang was nearly speechless.

He felt like he needed oxygen, gasping for air.

But work’s work, and he had to push through.

He carefully made the day’s biggest request: "Your Highness, Mr. Bai, could I get a photo of you two together?"

"Ideally... something a bit more intimate."

Without a photo, people might doubt the interview ever happened—but even without it, a shot of the two together would be a major win.

The request was not unreasonable, and Xie Yilin and Bai Chen naturally agreed.

So, Old Wang took out his camera and aimed it at the two of them.

Just as he was about to press the shutter, Xie Yilin suddenly raised his hand and pulled up the Omega's fingers as well.

He kissed the Omega's fingers.

...A particularly affectionate snapshot.

Author's Note: Thank you to all the supporters who voted for me or showed their support from 2021-09-02 15:57:11 to 2021-09-03 15:28:11~

Thank you to the supporters who showed their encouragement: Venus, 8 bottles; 48616584, Qingtian Xingqin, 6 bottles; Ruined Family, 2 bottles; Third Brother, 1 bottle;

Thanks a ton for all your support—I’ll keep giving it my best!