************
After exchanging last goodbyes with a plan to meet at the launching party, Lu Aotian and Mei Xing left.
"You okay?" Lu Aotian asked softly. "You are quiet."
Mei Xing squeezed his hand. "I'm just... processing. I'm fine though." Lu Aotian studied her for a moment and nodded. Then they continued their work in silence.
They drove home, the city lights reflecting off the car windows. Mei Xing looked out at the passing scenery, her mind replaying the events of the day.
She felt a mix of exhaustion and contentment, knowing that despite the challenges, they had emerged stronger.
As they pulled into the driveway of the building housing the penthouse, Mei Xing turned to Lu Aotian. "Tian?"
"Hmm?" He turned to her.
"I love you," she whispered, her brown eyes holding his emerald green ones.
Lu Aotian leaned in and kissed her gently. "I love you too, Mei. Always."
••••••