Under the night sky, the combined blooming time of all the epiphyllums lasted only thirty minutes.
But those thirty minutes were enough to leave an unforgettable memory.
The guests, as if waking from a dream, returned to the banquet hall still thinking about the greenery they had just witnessed. Many Alphas could still feel the vibrant life force emanating from them, which soothed their mental energy.
Even upon returning to the banquet hall, the lingering fragrance of the epiphyllums clung to many of them. Naturally, those who had been closest carried the strongest scent.
Xia Ze didn’t know how it had happened, but somehow, he had ended up following Old Mr. Colin. Steeling himself, he entered the banquet hall and instinctively wanted to slip away.
Unexpectedly, Old Mr. Colin called out, “Wait, where are you running off to?”
“What’s your contact info? I’d like to check in on those seeds from time to time.”
This remark only deepened the envy of those around.
Countless botanists had tried to forge connections with Old Mr. Colin. Any plant he so much as glanced at would skyrocket in value.
Xia Ze had merely known a little about the epiphyllum’s habits his luck was just too good.
But in truth, only Xia Ze knew that Old Mr. Colin was probably more interested in the moss. After all, not many people cultivated moss in this era.
After exchanging contact details, Xia Ze noticed two more figures emerging from the garden one tall and smiling, the other delicate but visibly furious.
Based on what he’d learned recently, the former was likely an Alpha, while the latter was an Omega.
The two had been seated in the garden pavilion, their positions only slightly less prestigious than Old Mr. Colin’s, which meant their status was undoubtedly high.
Sure enough, the moment they appeared, Ding Ruijie immediately tensed and whispered, “That Omega is Dimolin, the daughter of the previous wife of the head of the Dier family. Though she’s actually very close to her stepmother, the current Duchess Dier. No doubt she’ll try to stand up for her.”
“The Alpha is Joshi, the heir of the Hagrid family. Both the Hagrid and Dier families are old nobility with considerable influence in the royal court.”
Xia Ze gave a slight nod.
Here they were, the Dier family.
He’d been warned about them when he first entered the banquet hall, but he hadn’t expected them to be so well-hidden.
Yet as time passed, the Dier family’s Omega clearly wanted to approach, only to be held back by the young Hagrid heir beside her.
The whole situation was strange.
Even the queen’s nephew, Yisong, who had been observing from the shadows, had yet to see the notoriously spoiled Dier heiress make a move.
The undercurrents of tension in the banquet finally subsided as it came to an end, and Xia Ze unconsciously let out a sigh of relief.
Dealing with these people was exhausting.
But perhaps because he had kept his responses minimal mostly nodding along by the time the event was winding down, some of the older Omegas had even started offering him advice on childbirth and handling household disputes.
He really didn’t need that!
This was just a fake marriage!
Maintaining his composure, Xia Ze smiled politely, though his mind had already wandered back to his own garden.
Yet their words also circled around another topic.
Directly or indirectly, they probed: Since your wedding is coming up, why isn’t General Qi on the main planet?
They might as well have outright asked if there were problems in their relationship.
Xia Ze kept his gentle smile intact. “Official duties come first. Greater ability means greater responsibility.”
The moment those words left his mouth, the gossiping mouths around him promptly shut.
No one could argue with that.
Is it wrong to say that General Qi bears greater responsibilities with his greater abilities?
In the end, they could only mutter sourly, “I’ve never seen an Omega like you. How did General Qi even choose you?”
Not only were they whispering, but Delin from the Dier family was also glaring in their direction, surrounded by a crowd of young Alphas and Omegas who were clearly fawning over her.
Yet Delin only acknowledged Josie and the host of the banquet, Alva, while dismissing everyone else with disdain.
Such complicated relationships.
Unable to resist, Xia Ze even sent a message to General Qi.
However, there was no reply from him something must have happened.
Finally, as the banquet neared its end, Xia Ze let out a small sigh of relief. At least he got to see the night-blooming cereus that alone made it worthwhile.
Strangely, the expected trouble from the Dier family never came.
While waiting for his family’s aircraft at the estate entrance, Josie, the ever-smiling heir of the Hagrid family, stood beside Xia Ze.
The heir appeared to be only around twenty-four or twenty-five, his smile carrying a hint of frivolity, yet his gaze was piercing.
“Little Xia Ze, shouldn’t you thank me?”
Xia Ze frowned as the man continued, “If it weren’t for me, Delin from the Dier family wouldn’t have let you off so easily.”
“In front of everyone, you’d have been humiliated.”
“General Qi isn’t here, no one could protect you.”
Xia Ze had heard similar remarks countless times that evening.
They all mocked him for General Qi’s absence from the capital planet, as if it would actually upset him.
Xia Ze gave him a cool glance before stepping into the vehicle, saying flatly, “A dog catching mice none of your business.”
Who just demands gratitude out of nowhere?
Besides, it wasn’t even his fault.
It was like knowing there was a pothole on the road, already prepared to either go around it or fill it in.
But then someone insists on stepping in to “help,” only to demand thanks afterward as if refusing would make you the unreasonable one.
That’s nothing but a dog catching mice meddling where it shouldn’t.
Moreover, this guy was clearly closer to the Dier family.
They were on the same side.
His actions could only have one purpose, digging an even bigger pit for him.
As someone who worked with plants, how could he not recognize a trap when he saw one?
After uttering those words, Xia Ze told the driver, “Let’s go home.”
Then, the “driver” chuckled softly and replied, “Alright, let’s go home.”
That voice!
Xia Ze’s indifferent demeanor vanished instantly as he leaned forward, peering eagerly. Qi Jing reached back and ruffled his hair, then coldly addressed the stunned Hagrid heir outside: “A dog catching mice none of your business.”
The nearby guests waiting for their own aircraft nearly burst out laughing.
Damn, Xia Ze’s remark was already hilarious enough.
But General Qi indulged him and repeated the same line!
After the laughter subsided, realization struck, Qi Jing!
General Qi was here?!
Wasn’t he supposed to be on a mission? How did he have time to pick up his Omega?
A few bold onlookers noticed he was still in uniform, he must have come straight after returning.
Damn.
Who said General Qi didn’t care about his Omega?
Exhausted from a mission, yet rushing over to fetch him and even backing him up in an argument this was indifference?
Josie, hearing the surrounding laughter and seeing Xia Ze’s suddenly brightened expression, darkened with resentment, all traces of his earlier smirk gone.
As Alphas, he had been overshadowed by Qi Jing since birth!
Now even his fiancé could mock him!
Only after the Qi family’s aircraft departed did the murmurs erupt into louder discussions.
“General Qi wasn’t he out on a mission? How did he return so quickly?”
“They must be preparing for their wedding.”
“Looks like he rushed back, he’s still in his military uniform.”
“Coming straight to pick someone up after rushing back? Who wouldn’t be jealous?”
Qiao Xi gritted his teeth as he watched the Qi family aircraft disappear into the distance.
He had assumed this Omega from the countryside would be naive and easy to deceive.
He’d even used the same trick to fool many Omegas from the capital planet.
Countless Omegas had developed feelings for him after receiving his “help,” showering him with gratitude.
Little did they know it was just a casual act for him.
General Qi’s fiancé, impressive.
Meanwhile, inside the aircraft, Xia Ze was still explaining: “He was with that person from the Dier family, so he must have known about the threat against me all along.”
“Why ignore it before but suddenly intervene now? There must be ulterior motives.”
“When someone shows unwarranted kindness, they’re either after money or lust!”
Qi Jing chuckled. With Xu Chuan and Ding Ruijie now piloting the aircraft, he sat opposite the young man to rest, his uniform still dusted with sand.
Yet his weariness gradually faded as he watched the boy animatedly recount the banquet’s events.
“I’d say it’s lust.” Qi Jing poked Xia Ze’s cheek. “You’re beautiful.”
Xia Ze’s face flushed crimson.
Nonsense!
Qi Jing then produced a crystal case containing two desert roses.
Desert roses, despite their name, aren’t actual roses. They earned the title because their vibrant, multi-petaled blooms resemble roses.
These desert-dwelling flowers have thick stems to store water during arid seasons, yet their blossoms remain exquisitely delicate crimson beacons of hope amidst endless sands.
With worsening environmental conditions and perpetual sandstorms on fringe desert planets, desert roses have become rarer than the ephemeral night-blooming cereus they’d seen earlier.
“For you.”
Xia Ze accepted the case. The freshly cut stems still glistened with moisture harvested no more than six hours ago.
Six hours ago… General Qi had been on a remote desert planet?
No wonder even someone as formidable as him showed traces of fatigue.
Xia Ze had never felt such instant attachment to any plant, turning the case over in admiration.
Qi Jing teased: “Don’t like it?”
“How could I not?” Xia Ze blurted before realizing he’d been played. “Thank you, I truly love it!”
As Qi Jing withdrew his hand, Xia Ze caught his wrist: “These wounds from getting the desert roses?”
Tiny lacerations marked the general’s knuckles and fingers.
“Mhm. It hurts.” Qi Jing deadpanned.
The pilots Ding Ruijie and Xu Chuan rolled their eyes.
Seriously?!
Those scratches would heal within hours.
Never underestimate a top Alpha’s regenerative abilities!
Qi Jing offered his other hand: “Got injured retrieving them.”
Xia Ze panicked: “No! The sap is toxic, we need medical attention immediately!”
Qi Jing naturally knew this he’d already consulted the military doctor.
“Got the ointment. Will you apply it?”
Xia Ze nodded decisively.
Of course. For someone who braved dangers to gift him plants, how could he refuse such a simple request?
Qi Jing couldn’t suppress another smile.
Guilt was starting to prick his conscience for deceiving the boy.
Xia Ze carefully removed the medicine and gently applied it to General Qi’s hand, ensuring not a single wound was missed.
The wounds caused by the desert rose were fine and intricate, requiring the removal of all its sap.
Qi Jing rubbed his nose, too embarrassed to mention that the slight toxin meant nothing to him. The child’s soft fingers felt incredibly pleasant against his skin.
Ding Ruijie and Xu Chuan, still piloting the aircraft, had already given up on commenting.
Was the reason they didn’t have partners simply because they lacked General Qi’s shamelessness?!
The moment they returned to the villa, Xia Ze immediately took the desert rose to the greenhouse. Since desert roses could propagate from cuttings, there was still plenty of time to process them!
Having changed his clothes, Qi Jing leaned against a pillar in the garden, quietly watching the boy bustle about.
After a while, Qi Jing walked in and said, “I’ve already heard about what happened at the banquet. Don’t worry about the Natural Science Academy, I was the one who reserved those seeds first. Colin has a good impression of you, so you can interact more in the future.”
“As for Alva and Josie, you can ignore them.”
“I’ll also handle matters with Duchess Dier.”
To his surprise, the boy shook his head.
Xia Ze said, “Did you bring me here just to do these things? Besides, you saw, I can handle it myself.”
That was true. The boy wasn’t one to suffer losses.
Xia Ze understood General Qi’s situation. Moreover, despite being so busy, he still remembered to bring him greenery, how could he trouble him every day?
Once Xia Ze finished processing the desert rose, all that was left was to wait for successful propagation. His flower shop finally had a signature piece!
A desert rose!
Perhaps the first one in the entire network?
If he managed to sell it, he’d definitely share the profits with General Qi.
He could even build a more advanced greenhouse in his own courtyard.
Xia Ze happily headed upstairs, instinctively turning left upon entering.
The moment he stepped inside, he realized his mistake and instinctively backed up, only to collide with a warm presence, his waist steadied by a firm hand.
!
He’d forgotten!
He’d been sleeping in General Qi’s room these past few days and had instinctively come here.
Now that General Qi was back, he should have gone to the right room instead.
Flustered, Xia Ze scrambled for words. “I went to the wrong room. Ah, right, General Qi, why are you back so early? Didn’t you say it’d take a week?”
“Things went smoother than expected,” Qi Jing replied.
What he didn’t say was that Duchess Dier causing trouble so soon had also caught him off guard.
So he’d wrapped things up quickly and rushed back.
Xia Ze had only asked casually. His hand was already on the doorknob as he blurted, “Well, good night! Bye!”
Qi Jing’s fingers still tingled with the memory of the boy’s waist. Softly, he murmured, “Good night.”
But there was no need to ask further.
By breakfast the next morning, the news had already broadcast the fate of the pirates from the border planets.
The footage briefly showed Qi Jing’s figure as his subordinates escorted the captured pirates to the interstellar prison.
Not only that, but their communications with certain media outlets were exposed, along with payment records and timestamps.
All of it served as undeniable proof to the citizens of the galaxy.
The earlier attacks on General Qi’s fiancé had been deliberate. The online trolls were bots maliciously released to manipulate public opinion.
Their goal was to undermine General Qi’s reputation and smear his fiancé, sabotaging the marriage.
The evidence was overwhelming, the facts indisputable, leaving countless people stunned.
The Star Network was abuzz with discussions about the incident.
[That’s terrifying, almost fell into their trap.]
[Yeah, really scary.]
[Didn’t you guys notice? General Qi personally stepped in to resolve this.]
[I noticed! What an incredible man!]
[He charged in for his wife!]
[Just a few days ago, people were saying General Qi didn’t care about his fiancée because he left on a mission before the wedding. How’s that for a slap in the face?]
[I’ve noticed something ever since General Qi’s fiancée was revealed, there’s been a surge of negative rumors about him.]
[Exactly, the same old nonsense over and over. It’s exhausting.]
[Right? Trash planet this, low-class that, orphan this…]
[Ugh, it’s the interstellar era, and people are still harping on about “trash planets”? It’s called an F-grade star system.]
[That said, I’m still skeptical. What’s so special about this Omega? Just his looks?]
[Speaking of which, they haven’t revealed their pheromone compatibility rate. What if it’s really low?]
[They’re about to get married they must’ve tested it already.]
[Yeah, it’s fine if they don’t disclose it, but they definitely would’ve checked.]
With a batch of rumor-mongering media arrested and a group of space pirates eliminated, the online sentiment improved significantly.
Those pulling the strings behind the scenes no longer dared to provoke openly, resorting to more covert tactics.
General Qi’s subordinates were still tracking down leads, ensuring a period of quiet ahead.
Xia Ze stared at the news in shock before turning to General Qi. “You… you went to eliminate space pirates? They were the ones spreading rumors?”
“But that doesn’t make sense. Why would space pirates target me? There’s no benefit for them.”
Even if they wanted to undermine General Qi’s reputation, this method seemed unnecessarily convoluted.
Qi Jing glanced at the young man. Many couldn’t grasp the logic, but he saw through it instantly truly sharp.
“Whether they were the masterminds or not, they had to pay the price.”
Making an example out of them!
Xia Ze understood.
So, in just two or three days, General Qi had not only wiped out space pirates but also retrieved desert roses.
What a formidable man.
Xia Ze gazed at him with admiration. “I wish I could be as strong as you.”
Qi Jing met his eyes and took a bite of his fried egg. “I’ll teach you later.”
Huh?
“Didn’t you want to learn dagger techniques? I’ll instruct you.” With that, he shot a glance at his obediently eating subordinate, Ding Ruijie.
Ding Ruijie blinked in confusion.
Really, General?
You’re jealous over this?
Ding Ruijie cleared his throat. “Yeah, it’s better if the General teaches you. I’ve been swamped lately.”
He added, “General Qi is the best, after all.”
Xia Ze had no objections either instructor was fine!
But for him, learning combat skills wasn’t the priority. What mattered was checking on the desert roses!
Last night, he had prepared cuttings. Given their current growth rate, tiny roots should have sprouted by now.
Desert roses thrived in loose, dry soil, a relatively easy species to cultivate, though obtaining them was the real challenge.
Xia Ze was confident about this.
Sure enough, after a night of growth, the returned desert roses had revived, their leaves unfurling and petals glistening with moisture.
The greenhouse seemed even more vibrant with life.
This matched what Ding Ruijie and Xu Chuan had sensed earlier only now, it was even more pronounced.
Needless to say, the increased variety of plants and flowers in the garden undoubtedly made it even more pleasant.
Everyone couldn’t help but marvel inwardly.
No wonder wealthy interstellar elites were so obsessed with greenery royalty and nobles even spent fortunes maintaining gardens. So this was the feeling.
Even Qi Jing hadn’t expected the garden to transform so much in just the few days he’d been away.
In fact, just passing by the villa’s entrance, one could sense that even the large trees and stones radiated a soothing, natural vitality.
Researchers referred to this as “natural energy.”
It was still a relatively niche field of study, known only to a select few in the empire.
The known effects of this energy were primarily its ability to aid sleep and calm mental agitation, the most commonly recognized benefits.
The garden’s succulent cacti had already flourished to the point where they could be transplanted and sold.
The rose seeds had also sprouted, contributing significantly to the vibrant natural energy in the air.
Then there was the desert rose.
Together, these three had completely revitalized the garden’s atmosphere.
If they could successfully cultivate the upcoming hydrangeas and the three rare narcissus flowers, this garden could easily rank among the top ten in the entire star system.
Not to mention, even the guards now vied for shifts near the garden and villa entrance.
Working here wasn’t just a job it was practically a retreat.
Xia Ze grew more delighted the longer he looked. He snapped a photo of the cacti, nearly a hundred thriving plants then couldn’t resist capturing the desert rose as well, casually uploading both to his online plant shop’s page.
The cacti were for sale.
The desert rose?
That was just for show!
He simply wanted to show off!
As for the remaining roses, Xia Ze had no intention of selling them. These seeds were far too precious they were meant for propagation.
Moreover, these seeds technically belonged to General Qi. Once the garden was fully decorated, he planned to gift them all to him.
Greenery like this was always practical, whether kept or given as a gift.
Unaware of Xia Ze’s thoughts, Qi Jing had to leave again today.
The trouble with Duchess Dier needed resolving.
Their side would undoubtedly demand an official compatibility test between the two, but as an Alpha and a Beta, they were biologically mismatched.
But that didn’t matter.
His privately owned hospital would simply produce a report declaring a 100% compatibility rate not in terms of pheromones, but in overall suitability.
Xia Ze sat in the garden, waving obediently as Qi Jing snapped out of his thoughts and left.
With Qi Jing gone, the villa quieted down. His four aides were all occupied with their duties, and Uncle Qi was busy preparing for their wedding.
Xia Ze wasn’t idle either.
So many seeds still needed tending!
The hydrangeas!
The narcissus flowers!
They were all waiting for him.
By noon, when Uncle Qi called him for lunch, Xia Ze finally rubbed his stiff neck and glanced at his communicator.
It was flooded with messages!
A closer look revealed they were all reactions to the two photos he’d posted.
Both the plump, vividly colored cacti and the rare desert rose had drawn massive attention.
Fortunately, few recognized the desert rose. Most of his regular customers were just thrilled to see the shop’s young owner reappear and with so many new plants!
[Ahhhh!!! Boss!!! You’re back!!!]
[T-T Finally! Are these for sale? I’ll take them all!]
[Don’t be greedy! Share with the rest of us!]
[Help!!! The missing shop owner has returned!!!]
“Ahhhh start the livestream please, we’re begging you!”
Hundreds of messages flooded the screen.
Inside was a special message: “Little boss, do you still remember me? My grandfather is that retired veteran! After using the plants you grew, his health has improved so much! Please, I’m begging you, sell me some more!”
Xia Ze remembered this customer.
Back then, after giving all the plants to Ding Ruijie and the others, he had shipped some plants from his own home to this person.
Calculating the time, it had been nearly a month now?
They must be running low indeed.
Seeing so many regular customers asking, Xia Ze looked up and asked Uncle Qi: “Uncle Qi, can I go live? I won’t reveal my location, just work in the greenhouse.”
Uncle Qi smiled and said, “Even if you reveal the location, it’s fine. This is your home after all.”
That was out of the question.
He needed to keep his little secret identity intact.
Being able to go live was enough!
First, post a live stream announcement! He’d broadcast in the afternoon!
That afternoon, the online plant shop that hadn’t streamed for over twenty days finally turned on its camera.
As regular customers entered the stream, they immediately noticed the noticeably more advanced greenhouse, with glimpses of a larger garden visible at the edges of the frame.
[Is it just me, or has the location changed?] [Yeah, the greenhouse looks different bigger.] [The garden’s bigger too, though there are fewer plants now.]
Xia Ze replied, “Yes, we’ve temporarily relocated. There are indeed fewer plants now, but we’ll have more soon.”
[Ahhhh!!! Little boss’s voice!!!] [Little boss, let me see your hands!!!] [Hands!! We demand hand appearances!!!] [Your comments are so synchronized!!!]
Hearing the little boss’s voice, the comments noticeably sped up.
“Long time no see, everyone’s still so enthusiastic.” Xia Ze skillfully avoided their suggestive comments and got down to business. “The first batch of cacti is limited, but these cactus pots can be shipped to more locations now. My current location has better shipping options.”
Customers who couldn’t previously purchase plants due to distance restrictions were overjoyed.
Heavens! Before, when the little boss was on that remote planet, shipping to many areas was impossible.
They could only drool over the treasure trove of a shop every day. Now, hearing this sudden good news, they could only express their excitement with exclamation marks.
Other customers were also happy to varying degrees.
The little boss being in a more convenient location meant faster deliveries, which meant they could enjoy the plants longer once received.
Fantastic!
What an unexpected surprise!
[So happy!!!! Has little boss left the junk planet? Are you in the B or C star system? Maybe we’re even on the same planet!] [Or maybe the main star or A system, lol.] [Hahahaha that’s noble and royal territory not for us commoners!] [But if little boss wants to come to the A system, I can cover all living expenses.] [In awe of A system big shots either old money or new rich. So impressive. Might there even be main star VIPs in this stream?] [Don’t even think about the main star. What kind of place is that?] [Little boss, don’t believe them! Online romances can’t be trusted!]
Xia Ze didn’t explain, just smiled and said, “Don’t worry, I won’t believe them.”
“The plants can be shipped out tomorrow. You can place pre-orders now. The streaming features here are much more comprehensive than on the junk planet, you can place orders directly during the stream, and they’ll be shipped tomorrow morning.”
Though it was the same streaming platform, features varied between star systems, and even the audience demographics differed.
The main planet’s platform undoubtedly had the largest traffic, so although his small livestream was inconspicuous, it still attracted a few passersby to watch.
However, upon seeing that the most ordinary cacti were being sold inside, many people immediately left.
None of them noticed that the small online shop owner had just listed a hundred potted cacti, which sold out instantly.
The customer loyalty of this small shop was downright terrifying.
With all the items already pre-ordered and nothing else to do, Xia Ze followed his usual routine of chatting casually before preparing to end the stream.
But some sharp-eyed viewers noticed: “Shop owner! I saw another picture you posted is that a rose? How much is it?”
Xia Ze turned to look. The two desert roses were placed next to his Gabriel Archangel roses, one red and one white, both exceptionally beautiful.
And both were not for sale.
Xia Ze replied, “Those two aren’t roses, and they’re not for sale. Just letting you take a look!”
[So mean! Only letting us look!]
[They’re so beautiful, and they look very special.]
[Shop owner, you’re too cruel teasing us like this!]
[Am I seeing this wrong? They’re not roses, but they look a bit like roses. Could they be what I’m thinking?]
[Ahhh, no way! Shop owner, please, sell them to us!]
Xia Ze shook his head firmly. “No can do. These were a gift to me, so they’re not for sale.”
Regular customers knew that while the shop owner seemed soft-hearted, he rarely changed his mind once he’d made a decision.
Many still asked whether he would sell roses or similar flowers in the future, to which Xia Ze gave a definite answer.
“Yes, I will. The current batch I have can’t be sold, but once I’ve organized the garden, I’ll buy some reasonably priced flower and plant seeds to cultivate.”
The seeds Qi Jing had bought were far too precious. In the future, he’d buy more affordable seeds to grow.
That way, he could afford them, and so could his customers.
After sharing his plans, Xia Ze promptly ended the stream.
Finally, he was going to have some income!
Xia Ze gently touched the advanced equipment in the greenhouse.
For the sake of this setup, he had to save up!
Luckily, logistics on the main planet were convenient, so he could sell more greenery.
He’d heard there was a large shopping mall on the main planet entirely dedicated to selling plant seeds. Maybe he could visit sometime.
That said, Xia Ze knew that before the wedding, he should just focus on casual sales. A trip to the mall would have to wait.
After all, the wedding wasn’t far off.
Counting the days, it was only about ten or twelve days away.
Xia Ze could already tell that Uncle Qi was leaving the house more frequently.
The wedding would be held at the Qi family villa, the venue was more than spacious enough, but the finer details still needed arranging.
He and General Qi would likely be busy in the coming days.
After all, it was their wedding.
Even if it was just for show, a wedding was still a wedding.
As if on cue, early the next morning, Uncle Qi stood sternly behind Qi Jing and Xia Ze, holding several thick booklets.
“Young Master, Little Master, the wedding is in ten days. You really can’t afford to focus on anything else now.”
Xia Ze instinctively felt guilty, realizing then that Uncle Qi had been anxious for a while. But since General Qi had been occupied with official duties first at the military headquarters, then visiting Duchess Dior, he hadn’t pressed the matter.
Now that General Qi was finally free, they both had to participate in the wedding preparations.
Uncle Qi repeated sternly, “A once-in-a-lifetime wedding can’t be taken lightly.”
Even Qi Jing, uncharacteristically, rubbed his nose and nodded. “Naturally.”
After breakfast, the two sat in the living room flipping through the wedding handbook prepared by Uncle Qi.
Everything inside was neatly categorized all they had to do was make their selections.
From the wedding flowers to the design of napkins, the style of tables, and the specific layout of the venue.
Not to mention their formal attire and, most importantly, the rings.
The outfits required them to go for fittings, which could then be quickly altered.
As for the rings, they only needed to choose the design.
By the end of the day, Xia Ze was already slumped in exhaustion at the tailor’s shop, while Qi Jing was still meticulously examining the rings.
Xia Ze glanced at him and couldn’t help but mutter, “Getting married is way too much trouble.”
Only now did he realize just how much Uncle Qi had taken care of for them!
Qi Jing chuckled. “Well, it’s only once in a lifetime.”
Once?
Xia Ze tilted his head to look at him, nearly making the tailor’s staff squeal behind them.
General Qi really knew how to flirt.
That was practically a confession right there.
Xia Ze’s ears turned slightly red as he leaned back against the armrest of the sofa. “I’m done looking. You pick the rings.”
Qi Jing reached out and pulled him over, letting him rest against his shoulder. “Just lean on me. I’ll flip the pages, you only need to say what you like.”
Their posture instantly became intimate.
To onlookers, they looked like a pair of lovebirds nestled together while choosing wedding rings.
The tall Alpha sat upright, while the Omega leaning against him only had to move his eyes to follow along.
The staff collectively took a deep breath.
Who wouldn’t want a husband like that?!
They were all Omegas, why was the gap between their partners so huge?
But even after hours of browsing, with the outfits already altered, Qi Jing still hadn’t found a suitable ring. Finally, he said, “We’ll look again later.”
Xia Ze gave him a questioning look, and Qi Jing tactfully explained, “They’re not good enough.”
Not good enough?
These were all carefully selected by Uncle Qi masterpieces from renowned designers.
Any one of them would have people lining up to buy them. The fact that they were compiled into a catalog was already unbelievable.
Fortunately, nothing could stump Uncle Qi. A thinner booklet of wedding rings was soon placed in their hands.
Inside, a simple yet elegantly carved rose ring immediately caught Xia Ze’s eye.
Though most carved roses tended to look the same, this one was different, its floral pattern unmistakably resembled the Gabriel Archangel Rose, with delicate diamonds embedded in the petals, making the flower appear lifelike.
Beautiful.
He wanted it.
Qi Jing noticed the spark in the boy’s eyes instantly and asked, “This one?”
Xia Ze nodded. “This one. It’s pretty.”
If the picture alone was this stunning, he could only imagine how breathtaking the real thing would be.
Uncle Qi, relieved they had finally made a choice, smiled when he saw the selected ring. “For this pair, I’m afraid the young master and little master will have to retrieve them personally.”
These rings were the work of a master artisan, with the rose carvings inspired by ancient texts.
Many had tried to purchase them, only to be turned away.
Even Uncle Qi didn’t have the authority only the couple themselves could acquire them.
That troublesome?
Xia Ze was about to suggest choosing another when Qi Jing leaned down and asked, “Shall we go now?”
Xia Ze’s heart itched with temptation. On one hand, he felt a fake marriage didn’t warrant this much effort. On the other, he genuinely adored this ring so much that even if they divorced later, he’d still want to wear it.
Qi Jing already knew the answer. With one arm around Xia Ze’s waist, he let the boy rest against him before telling Uncle Qi, “The outfits are nearly done. We’ll head back after picking up the rings.”
Old Qi smiled as he saw them off.
In the following days, Qi Jing and Xia Ze were busy preparing for the wedding. The rings had been retrieved the same day they were ordered.
The master jeweler had initially been hesitant, but after accepting another variety of roses personally grown by Xia Ze, he reluctantly agreed.
The Qi family villa grew livelier by the day, with wedding decorations gradually filling the grand hall.
People came and went constantly, all making preparations for the upcoming ceremony.
Xia Ze could only spare brief moments each day to water the large stone and complete the garden arrangements.
The sale of potted plants from his livestreams also continued without delay.
Xia Ze felt he had never been this busy before.
Everything was progressing smoothly.
Then, as expected, another unwelcome guest arrived.
Her expression was the same as before, accompanied by the same entourage of servants.
Duchess Dier had changed into an elegant outfit, though the look of absolute certainty in her eyes had faded.
Xia Ze was inspecting the fresh flowers for the wedding having previously selected their colors and varieties, he now examined the samples.
Qi Jing stayed by his side, finalizing the guest list.
Though the invitations had already been sent out, this was a final check for any omissions.
The entire villa buzzed with wedding preparations.
Xia Ze frowned. “These flowers aren’t fully bloomed. Are these the only ones available?”
Old Qi, who had seen the flowers Xia Ze cultivated, wasn’t satisfied with the supplier’s offerings either.
But these were the best they could provide.
After a moment’s thought, Xia Ze said, “Then we’ll make do. But when arranging them, use my nutrient powder hopefully, they’ll bloom better by then.”
As they discussed this, a servant approached. “Duchess Dier has arrived.”
No sooner had the words been spoken than the duchess strode into the hall, her gaze lingering on the decorations with a complicated expression.
She had once been the lady of this house, yet a wedding had never been held here for her.
Many claimed Qi Jing’s last-minute preparations were a sign of disregard for Xia Ze.
But few knew that her own wedding had been entirely outsourced to a wedding planner and held elsewhere.
Of course, she could have chosen to have it here but she hadn’t liked the idea, and Qi Jing’s father had no time for such matters. So, after some back-and-forth, they opted for a more professional venue.
Now, seeing the romantic and beautiful decorations, she couldn’t help but feel displeased.
But this visit was about something else.
Duchess Dier demanded, “When exactly are you two going to undergo your pheromone compatibility test?”
Qi Jing frowned. “I’ve said it many times, we’re not doing it.”
“Not doing it? Why? If your compatibility is too low, how will you produce a worthy heir for the Qi family? Have you even considered that?” The duchess’s voice turned sharp. “You are my most outstanding son. You cannot father some inferior Alpha or Omega.”
“Every royal and noble does this, who doesn’t?”
Realizing she wouldn’t get through to Qi Jing, she turned to Xia Ze. “You give me a sample of your pheromones. I’m having your genetic grade tested.”
If she couldn’t get the compatibility test done, she would at least determine Xia Ze’s genetic rank.
Over time, she had grudgingly accepted that her son would marry an Omega from a backwater planet his looks made it somewhat tolerable.
But if they refused the compatibility test, then the genetic test was non-negotiable.
This was her final line in the sand.
Xia Ze still held the bouquet of flowers in his hands, causing those who glanced his way to momentarily daze, once again realizing just how stunning this Omega was.
Many couldn’t help but think forget that he was a low-ranking Omega, even if he were a Beta, people would still flock to him.
Xia Ze grew nervous and instinctively looked toward Qi Jing.
In General Qi’s eyes, he was a Beta, how was he supposed to explain pheromones now?
Xia Ze’s tension, however, was interpreted as fear by Qi Jing. Setting aside the list in his hand, Qi Jing wrapped an arm around the young man’s waist, pulling him protectively into his embrace. “We’re getting married because we love each other, not because of so-called genetics or pheromones.”
Because we love each other.
Not because of genetics or pheromones?
Duchess Dill sneered.
Impossible.
The mutual attraction of pheromones between Alphas and Omegas was instinct. That superior genes produced superior offspring was common knowledge.
Love? What even was that?
She didn’t believe in such nonsense.
Xia Ze, who had been silent until now, suddenly spoke up. “Duchess Dill, you just said that the royal family and nobility select partners based on superior genes to produce outstanding descendants.”
“If that were truly the case, then every descendant of royalty and nobility must be intelligent, beautiful, brave, and resilient pillars of the nation, right?”
The crowd stiffened. The Qi family stifled laughter most royal and noble heirs were barely well-behaved enough to avoid causing trouble, let alone being “pillars of the nation.”
The Dill family, however, felt Xia Ze’s words carried a mocking edge, especially since their own family had been embroiled in two or three scandals just last month.
“Duchess Dill,” Xia Ze paused, his tone utterly sincere, “I’ve wanted to say this for a long time.”
“General Qi is outstanding because of who he is because of the training he endured since childhood, the battles he fought, the hardships he overcame, and the countless struggles he survived.”
“Why do you insist on attributing all of that to ‘superior genes,’ completely dismissing his own efforts?”
“That’s unfair.”
Qi Jing’s gaze deepened as he watched the young man defend him. Xia Ze rarely showed such emotion, and his words clearly came from the heart.
Qi Jing wasn’t someone easily moved but he was hopelessly fond of Xia Ze standing up for him.
Unable to resist, he pressed a light kiss to Xia Ze’s forehead.
!!!
Xia Ze, who had just finished his rebuttal, immediately flushed red to the tips of his ears.
What are you doing?!
We’re in the middle of an argument!
Is this really the time?!
