He didn't need to be told twice. His mouth claimed hers again, firmer now, passion simmering beneath the surface. Their bodies pressed flush together, no space left between, his hands roaming the outline of her figure, curves he knew too well but never got tired of discovering.
When they finally broke apart, Ruyi's lips were kiss-bruised, her eyes glazed with affection and heat. She smoothed her blouse, a soft, amused smile tugging at her lips.
"We should test these dresses and see if they fit," she murmured, her voice was now husky.
Lu Zhi Hao leaned in one last time, kissing the corner of her mouth. "Fine. But tonight, once this gala is over…"
She arched a brow. "You will want more trouble?"
He grinned. "I will make time for nothing else."
"Hehe... Sorry to bust your bubble! The doctor forbade us to strictly!" She giggled, wearing the dress to see if it was fitting.
He suddenly looked like a deflated balloon.
Ruyi twirled in front of the mirror, the silk fabric hugging her curves perfectly well showcasing what she was born with.
She caught Lu Zhi Hao's reflection sulking behind her, arms crossed and pout deepening by the second.
"Don't look so tragic," she said over her shoulder, laughter still dancing in her voice. "It's not a forever thing."
"But it feels like exile," he muttered dramatically. "The doctor didn't say how strictly that should be, right? Maybe just—"
"Zhi Hao, Honey." Her voice was gentle but firm as she turned to face him. "No loopholes to manipulate. The baby has to be safe more than anything. So now, we listen." She gently caressed her abdomen. After six years, they were finally having their own fruit; they needed to be careful.
He sighed, dragging a hand through his hair, slightly defeated, and he actually understood her; more than ever, he had always wanted to have a little baby just like Ruyi. 'I know. I just didn't think self-control would feel like this. Don't worry, I won't do anything that would compromise your safety and the kid's safety."
Ruyi stepped closer, brushing her fingers over his jaw. "Then let me reward your restraint with a dance at the gala tonight. Just you and me, like old times. Let's feel the love and magic." Yes, it was he who made her feel wholly.
He caught her hand and kissed her knuckles reverently. "If you promise me that, I will behave like a saint." Of course, who didn't want to flaunt their wife? He had such a beautiful and perfect one, he would show her to the world and watch everyone due with envy.
She laughed softly. "A dancing saint in a suit. Now that's a look I would pay to see."
He grinned again, brighter this time. "Just wait till I twirl you on that ballroom floor. They'll think the gala was made just for us."
"And maybe," she whispered as she adjusted his tie, "when the doctor lifts the ban, we can make our own encore."
The mischievous gleam returned to his eyes. "Then I will mark the calendar. Every day." They giggled, gazing at each other with adoration and love.
— — — — — —
Meanwhile, in the lounge, Lu Ting Cheng and Lu Zi Zhen stood in front of tall mirrors, both scrutinizing their reflections.
Ting Cheng chose a sharp black tuxedo with a white waistcoat and slim black tie—modern, elegant, and crisp, defining his status in society.
Zi Zhen, ever the more daring one, selected a deep burgundy velvet jacket over classic black trousers, paired with a crisp white shirt. His cufflinks bore their family crest, adding a regal touch.