Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen arrived five minutes early at Jade Emerald Villa. They walked up to the designated private room, pushed the door open, and after a momentary pause, smiled.
“Sorry, we’re late.”
Everyone inside the room stood up, some reassuring Yan Ge that it was fine, while others appraised Huangfu Yuchen.
A tall, thin man walked up to Yan Ge and playfully punched his shoulder. “You rascal, we got here early. Won’t you introduce us?”
Yan Ge generously put his arm around Huangfu Yuchen’s waist. “This is my partner, Huangfu Yuchen. You can just call him Huangfu. Yuchen, let me introduce you: this is my old classmate, Xu Kai. We’ve been classmates from high school to university. This is his wife, Wu Qian. Wherever they go, they’re the model couple. And this is Yang Fan, I’ve known him for about four or five years. This is He Xin, an old friend. And this gorgeous lady is Lu Hanya.”
“Nice to meet you.” Huangfu Yuchen adapted to the situation, shaking hands with each of them.
Yang Fan, He Xin, and Lu Hanya’s partners were strangers to Yan Ge, so the three introduced their family members themselves. Now, everyone in the room knew each other.
Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were the only male couple, creating a somewhat awkward atmosphere. Even Xu Kai, who seemed the most outgoing, couldn’t help but secretly scrutinize Huangfu Yuchen. In terms of appearance and temperament, Huangfu Yuchen was certainly worthy of Yan Ge, but they had little exposure to same-sex couples, making the situation a bit awkward.
Huangfu Yuchen suggested, “Shall we sit down and chat?”
“Yes.” Yan Ge led Huangfu Yuchen to their seats. “Have you all placed your orders?”
Others also took their seats.
Xu Kai chuckled, “If Boss Yan didn’t show up, who would dare to order?”
“Exactly,” Lu Hanya smiled sweetly, “Boss Yan, are we free to order anything today?”
“Of course,” Yan Ge responded, “Order whatever you like. If I don’t have enough money, I can always stay and wash dishes.”
Laughter filled the room, and the atmosphere finally became more relaxed.
Huangfu Yuchen added, “No need to order drinks for now. I brought a jar of wine that’s both sweet and not too intoxicating. I think everyone will enjoy it. The lovely ladies can also have a taste. It’s refreshing and good for the skin.”
No wonder there was a faint smell of wine earlier. Everyone’s gaze shifted to the bag in Huangfu Yuchen’s hands, watching him take out a rustic wine jar. Everyone was curious. Such wine jars were usually seen in period dramas. Could this wine really have some extraordinary qualities?
Yan Ge explained, “Don’t underestimate this wine. It’s brewed using Yuchen’s family’s ancient method. I won’t say much, you’ll know once you taste it.”
The mention of ancient brewing techniques heightened their interest. They believed that this man wouldn’t bring something poorly made to his partner’s friends’ gathering. If it didn’t deliver, wouldn’t that be embarrassing?
With orders placed, the conversation continued.
Knowing Yan Ge’s friends had a lot to say to him, Huangfu Yuchen stood up. “Excuse me for a moment, I’ll use the restroom.”
“Turn left after you exit,” Jade Emerald Villa was the Yan family’s property, so he was familiar with the layout.
“I won’t get lost,” Huangfu Yuchen patted Yan Ge’s head, then opened the door and left.
Xu Kai, He Xin, Yang Fan, and Lu Hanya immediately gathered around Yan Ge.
“Yan Ge, where have you been all this time?” Xu Kai couldn’t wait to ask.
He Xin added, “Yeah, when we heard you went missing, we searched everywhere but couldn’t find any news.”
Yan Ge explained, “I was kidnapped and then had an accident that caused memory loss. I don’t remember anything.”
Yang Fan was surprised, “You’re the second young master of the prestigious Yan family. Who would dare to kidnap you?”
“Not sure. I was drugged, woke up alone in the deep mountains. That’s where I met Yuchen.” Yan Ge changed the topic, “Enough about that. It’s all emotional. By the way, I haven’t congratulated He Xin and Yang Fan on their recent wedding. This is a belated gift from Yuchen and me. It’s just a small gesture.” He took out two identical brocade boxes from his bag.
“What wedding? We’ve been married for years, no need to be so formal,” He Xin declined.
He Xin’s wife, Long Miaomiao, was an easygoing woman a she said with a smile, “No need for a wedding gift. Our daughter turns one next month. Yan Ge, you better prepare a birthday gift in advance.”
Yan Ge smiled, “The little princess is almost one year old? Congratulations! I’ll definitely prepare another gift then.”
Yang Fan accepted the gift and handed it to his wife, Lu Xin. “Keep it. Yan Ge’s gift must be something good. Don’t refuse.”
Lu Xin playfully scolded him, “You have such thick skin.”
Yang Fan grinned, “We’ll give them a gift when they have their wedding feast, won’t we?”
Yan Ge chuckled, “Perhaps that day will come soon.”
“Ah,” Lu Hanya playfully slapped Yan Ge’s shoulder, “Are you serious? I never heard you say you liked men before. Didn’t you used to date women?”
“Really,” Yan Ge admitted candidly, “I’ve always been attracted to men. But before, I was either busy studying or working, never had time for dating. So, naturally, I didn’t randomly tell you all I liked men. But he’s great.”
The two words “He’s great” held many implications. Xu Kai and the others understood and didn’t pry further, shifting to lighter topics. They teased Lu Hanya and her somewhat shy boyfriend and chatted while waiting for the food to arrive.
Huangfu Yuchen timed his return well, sitting down just as the dishes were being served.
He placed the wine jar on a tray and smoothly peeled off the clay covering the opening, not spilling a single speck. This skill impressed Xu Kai and the others. Opening the wine jar released an inviting aroma, stimulating their senses. The fragrance invaded their nostrils, awakening their spirits. The scent effortlessly stirred everyone’s appetites.
“Excellent wine!” Xu Kai sincerely praised.
Little did they know, the fragrance had stirred up a commotion among the guests in the hall outside the private room. The aroma lingered, even enticing some non-drinking female patrons to inquire about the wine from the staff.
The staff felt helpless; this wasn’t the villa’s wine. How were they supposed to explain?
Inside the private room, Huangfu Yuchen poured wine for everyone with expert precision.
Yan Ge watched him secretly, musing how lucky his friends were. Having an emperor personally serve them was quite an honor. But he, as the emperor’s man, was even luckier.
Huangfu Yuchen glanced at him with a smile and continued pouring the wine.
As everyone knew, wine jara had wide openings and were prone to spills while pouring. Yet, Huangfu Yuchen managed to pour wine into each glass accurately, without a single drop wasted. Xu Kai and the others were genuinely impressed.
“Give it a try,” Yan Ge eagerly took a sip.
Yang Fan took a sip but didn’t immediately swallow. He savored the taste before letting the liquid glide down his throat. “Rich, smooth, and fragrant, wonderful wine!”
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Yan Jiaqiang entered with a somber expression, his smile fading upon seeing Yan Ge by the table.
“Yan Ge, what are you doing here?”
“Dad.” Yan Ge walked over, smiling faintly, his demeanor calm. “I’m treating my friends to a meal. Do you need something?”
Yan Jiaqiang was about to flare up but remembered his main purpose for coming. He suppressed his anger. “I wanted to ask about the fragrance of the wine here.”
Yan Ge casually replied, “Oh, this wine is brewed using Yuchen’s family’s ancient method. The taste is quite robust.”
Yan Jiaqiang’s thoughts shifted. “I see. Alright then, enjoy your time with your friends and come home for lunch tomorrow. We haven’t had a meal together as a family since your return.”
Yan Ge agreed, turned, and went back to the private room.
Seeing Yan Jiaqiang’s expression, Xu Kai and the others assumed he had learned about Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen’s relationship. Without asking, they continued discussing light topics, letting Lu Hanya and her somewhat shy boyfriend join the conversation while they awaited the arrival of the food.
After a satisfying meal, everyone was in high spirits.
Yan Ge then sent his friends off in a taxi. He and Huangfu Yuchen didn’t drive, instead opting to stroll along the road.
“Thinking about your father?” Huangfu Yuchen asked.
“I don’t know how he plans to use me again,” Yan Ge looked up at the sky, “Several times before, I couldn’t help but wonder if I’m really his biological son.”
Huangfu Yuchen recalled Yan Jiaqiang’s appearance. There was a striking resemblance between Yan Jiaqiang and Yan Ge. “If you don’t want to go, then don’t. Xiao Ge, I don’t want you to feel wronged or force yourself.”
“Since I’ve already agreed, I’ll go,” Yan Ge had a plan in mind, “If they want me to do something I’m unwilling to do, I’ll just refuse directly.”
“I’ll go with you tomorrow,” Huangfu Yuchen didn’t have a good impression of Yan Jiaqiang, Du Rulan, Yan Weifeng, and especially Yan Yan. Yan Yan appeared innocent on the surface, but it was far from the truth.
Yan Ge shook his head, “No need. I also want to have an honest conversation with them.”
Huangfu Yuchen was about to say something, but Yan Ge slyly raised an eyebrow, “Don’t forget the cooking class I arranged for you.”
Huangfu Yuchen thought about his beloved- he wasn’t one to tolerate being taken advantage of, so he abandoned the thought.
The next day, Yan Ge drove Huangfu Yuchen to his cooking class. Afterward, he wandered around until around eleven before heading to the Yan family home.
“Welcome back,” Du Rulan greeted him.
“Mom,” Yan Ge smiled lightly, calling out. He saw Yan Jiaqiang, Du Rulan, Yan Weifeng, and Yan Yan all in the living room.
Du Rulan said, “Good timing, you can wash up and then we can eat.”
After washing his hands, Yan Ge came out. The servants had already set the table with food, and Yan Jiaqiang and the others were seated around it.
“Let’s sit down and eat,” Yan Jiaqiang’s tone was gentle.
Yan Ge was now more certain that his parents had some ulterior motive, seeing that they were all being so amicable. However, he didn’t show it, quietly eating and occasionally answering his parents’ questions.
After the meal, the family gathered in the living room.
“By the way, Yan Ge, did the wine in your private room last night really come from that Mr. Huangfu?” Yan Jiaqiang inquired.
Yan Ge answered truthfully, “It was brought by Yuchen. It’s brewed using the Huangfu family’s ancient method. The taste is different from regular wine. Dad, if you like it, I can have him send you a jar.”
Yan Jiaqiang continued, “Of course, that’s great. But do you know how the wine is brewed?”
Yan Ge sneered internally and smiled, “I’m not sure. Yuchen did mention he was interested in teaching me, but I wasn’t interested in learning and didn’t ask him about it.”
Yan Jiaqiang’s disappointment showed in his narrowed eyes, “I see. Yan Ge, you know that Jade Emerald Villa specializes in cuisine and emphasizes green and uniqueness. So, what I mean is, can you ask Mr. Huangfu if he’s willing to sell the recipe? Just think about it, the unique recipe could bring tremendous profits to our Yan family!”
Yan Ge shook his head, “Dad, you’re really putting me in a difficult position with this matter. It seems like Yuchen intends to start his own winery, so it’s unlikely he’d sell the recipe.”
Du Rulan furrowed her brows, “Didn’t you say he’s your lover? What kind of lover does not even give you this bit of face?”
Yan Ge was left speechless. He truly couldn’t believe that such words were coming out of Du Rulan’s mouth.
After a brief silence, he spoke again, “So, Mom and Dad, does this mean you both accept my relationship with him?”
“Impossible!” Du Rulan’s face turned cold as ice, and she said sharply.
Yan Ge found it amusing, and he actually burst into laughter, “Mom, Dad, in fact, I wanted to ask you both a long time ago: am I really your biological son?”
“Nonsense!” Yan Jiaqiang abruptly stood up, “You ungrateful child! How could you say something so disrespectful to your parents?” He raised his hand, intending to slap Yan Ge.
Yan Ge caught his wrist, pushed it away calmly, and stood up, “Yuchen’s class is ending soon, I should go.”
Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen arrived five minutes early at Jade Emerald Villa. They walked up to the designated private room, pushed the door open, and after a momentary pause, smiled.
“Sorry, we’re late.”
Everyone inside the room stood up, some reassuring Yan Ge that it was fine, while others appraised Huangfu Yuchen.
A tall, thin man walked up to Yan Ge and playfully punched his shoulder. “You rascal, we got here early. Won’t you introduce us?”
Yan Ge generously put his arm around Huangfu Yuchen’s waist. “This is my partner, Huangfu Yuchen. You can just call him Huangfu. Yuchen, let me introduce you: this is my old classmate, Xu Kai. We’ve been classmates from high school to university. This is his wife, Wu Qian. Wherever they go, they’re the model couple. And this is Yang Fan, I’ve known him for about four or five years. This is He Xin, an old friend. And this gorgeous lady is Lu Hanya.”
“Nice to meet you.” Huangfu Yuchen adapted to the situation, shaking hands with each of them.
Yang Fan, He Xin, and Lu Hanya’s partners were strangers to Yan Ge, so the three introduced their family members themselves. Now, everyone in the room knew each other.
Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were the only male couple, creating a somewhat awkward atmosphere. Even Xu Kai, who seemed the most outgoing, couldn’t help but secretly scrutinize Huangfu Yuchen. In terms of appearance and temperament, Huangfu Yuchen was certainly worthy of Yan Ge, but they had little exposure to same-sex couples, making the situation a bit awkward.
Huangfu Yuchen suggested, “Shall we sit down and chat?”
“Yes.” Yan Ge led Huangfu Yuchen to their seats. “Have you all placed your orders?”
Others also took their seats.
Xu Kai chuckled, “If Boss Yan didn’t show up, who would dare to order?”
“Exactly,” Lu Hanya smiled sweetly, “Boss Yan, are we free to order anything today?”
“Of course,” Yan Ge responded, “Order whatever you like. If I don’t have enough money, I can always stay and wash dishes.”
Laughter filled the room, and the atmosphere finally became more relaxed.
Huangfu Yuchen added, “No need to order drinks for now. I brought a jar of wine that’s both sweet and not too intoxicating. I think everyone will enjoy it. The lovely ladies can also have a taste. It’s refreshing and good for the skin.”
No wonder there was a faint smell of wine earlier. Everyone’s gaze shifted to the bag in Huangfu Yuchen’s hands, watching him take out a rustic wine jar. Everyone was curious. Such wine jars were usually seen in period dramas. Could this wine really have some extraordinary qualities?
Yan Ge explained, “Don’t underestimate this wine. It’s brewed using Yuchen’s family’s ancient method. I won’t say much, you’ll know once you taste it.”
The mention of ancient brewing techniques heightened their interest. They believed that this man wouldn’t bring something poorly made to his partner’s friends’ gathering. If it didn’t deliver, wouldn’t that be embarrassing?
With orders placed, the conversation continued.
Knowing Yan Ge’s friends had a lot to say to him, Huangfu Yuchen stood up. “Excuse me for a moment, I’ll use the restroom.”
“Turn left after you exit,” Jade Emerald Villa was the Yan family’s property, so he was familiar with the layout.
“I won’t get lost,” Huangfu Yuchen patted Yan Ge’s head, then opened the door and left.
Xu Kai, He Xin, Yang Fan, and Lu Hanya immediately gathered around Yan Ge.
“Yan Ge, where have you been all this time?” Xu Kai couldn’t wait to ask.
He Xin added, “Yeah, when we heard you went missing, we searched everywhere but couldn’t find any news.”
Yan Ge explained, “I was kidnapped and then had an accident that caused memory loss. I don’t remember anything.”
Yang Fan was surprised, “You’re the second young master of the prestigious Yan family. Who would dare to kidnap you?”
“Not sure. I was drugged, woke up alone in the deep mountains. That’s where I met Yuchen.” Yan Ge changed the topic, “Enough about that. It’s all emotional. By the way, I haven’t congratulated He Xin and Yang Fan on their recent wedding. This is a belated gift from Yuchen and me. It’s just a small gesture.” He took out two identical brocade boxes from his bag.
“What wedding? We’ve been married for years, no need to be so formal,” He Xin declined.
He Xin’s wife, Long Miaomiao, was an easygoing woman a she said with a smile, “No need for a wedding gift. Our daughter turns one next month. Yan Ge, you better prepare a birthday gift in advance.”
Yan Ge smiled, “The little princess is almost one year old? Congratulations! I’ll definitely prepare another gift then.”
Yang Fan accepted the gift and handed it to his wife, Lu Xin. “Keep it. Yan Ge’s gift must be something good. Don’t refuse.”
Lu Xin playfully scolded him, “You have such thick skin.”
Yang Fan grinned, “We’ll give them a gift when they have their wedding feast, won’t we?”
Yan Ge chuckled, “Perhaps that day will come soon.”
“Ah,” Lu Hanya playfully slapped Yan Ge’s shoulder, “Are you serious? I never heard you say you liked men before. Didn’t you used to date women?”
“Really,” Yan Ge admitted candidly, “I’ve always been attracted to men. But before, I was either busy studying or working, never had time for dating. So, naturally, I didn’t randomly tell you all I liked men. But he’s great.”
The two words “He’s great” held many implications. Xu Kai and the others understood and didn’t pry further, shifting to lighter topics. They teased Lu Hanya and her somewhat shy boyfriend and chatted while waiting for the food to arrive.
Huangfu Yuchen timed his return well, sitting down just as the dishes were being served.
He placed the wine jar on a tray and smoothly peeled off the clay covering the opening, not spilling a single speck. This skill impressed Xu Kai and the others. Opening the wine jar released an inviting aroma, stimulating their senses. The fragrance invaded their nostrils, awakening their spirits. The scent effortlessly stirred everyone’s appetites.
“Excellent wine!” Xu Kai sincerely praised.
Little did they know, the fragrance had stirred up a commotion among the guests in the hall outside the private room. The aroma lingered, even enticing some non-drinking female patrons to inquire about the wine from the staff.
The staff felt helpless; this wasn’t the villa’s wine. How were they supposed to explain?
Inside the private room, Huangfu Yuchen poured wine for everyone with expert precision.
Yan Ge watched him secretly, musing how lucky his friends were. Having an emperor personally serve them was quite an honor. But he, as the emperor’s man, was even luckier.
Huangfu Yuchen glanced at him with a smile and continued pouring the wine.
As everyone knew, wine jara had wide openings and were prone to spills while pouring. Yet, Huangfu Yuchen managed to pour wine into each glass accurately, without a single drop wasted. Xu Kai and the others were genuinely impressed.
“Give it a try,” Yan Ge eagerly took a sip.
Yang Fan took a sip but didn’t immediately swallow. He savored the taste before letting the liquid glide down his throat. “Rich, smooth, and fragrant, wonderful wine!”
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Yan Jiaqiang entered with a somber expression, his smile fading upon seeing Yan Ge by the table.
“Yan Ge, what are you doing here?”
“Dad.” Yan Ge walked over, smiling faintly, his demeanor calm. “I’m treating my friends to a meal. Do you need something?”
Yan Jiaqiang was about to flare up but remembered his main purpose for coming. He suppressed his anger. “I wanted to ask about the fragrance of the wine here.”
Yan Ge casually replied, “Oh, this wine is brewed using Yuchen’s family’s ancient method. The taste is quite robust.”
Yan Jiaqiang’s thoughts shifted. “I see. Alright then, enjoy your time with your friends and come home for lunch tomorrow. We haven’t had a meal together as a family since your return.”
Yan Ge agreed, turned, and went back to the private room.
Seeing Yan Jiaqiang’s expression, Xu Kai and the others assumed he had learned about Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen’s relationship. Without asking, they continued discussing light topics, letting Lu Hanya and her somewhat shy boyfriend join the conversation while they awaited the arrival of the food.
After a satisfying meal, everyone was in high spirits.
Yan Ge then sent his friends off in a taxi. He and Huangfu Yuchen didn’t drive, instead opting to stroll along the road.
“Thinking about your father?” Huangfu Yuchen asked.
“I don’t know how he plans to use me again,” Yan Ge looked up at the sky, “Several times before, I couldn’t help but wonder if I’m really his biological son.”
Huangfu Yuchen recalled Yan Jiaqiang’s appearance. There was a striking resemblance between Yan Jiaqiang and Yan Ge. “If you don’t want to go, then don’t. Xiao Ge, I don’t want you to feel wronged or force yourself.”
“Since I’ve already agreed, I’ll go,” Yan Ge had a plan in mind, “If they want me to do something I’m unwilling to do, I’ll just refuse directly.”
“I’ll go with you tomorrow,” Huangfu Yuchen didn’t have a good impression of Yan Jiaqiang, Du Rulan, Yan Weifeng, and especially Yan Yan. Yan Yan appeared innocent on the surface, but it was far from the truth.
Yan Ge shook his head, “No need. I also want to have an honest conversation with them.”
Huangfu Yuchen was about to say something, but Yan Ge slyly raised an eyebrow, “Don’t forget the cooking class I arranged for you.”
Huangfu Yuchen thought about his beloved- he wasn’t one to tolerate being taken advantage of, so he abandoned the thought.
The next day, Yan Ge drove Huangfu Yuchen to his cooking class. Afterward, he wandered around until around eleven before heading to the Yan family home.
“Welcome back,” Du Rulan greeted him.
“Mom,” Yan Ge smiled lightly, calling out. He saw Yan Jiaqiang, Du Rulan, Yan Weifeng, and Yan Yan all in the living room.
Du Rulan said, “Good timing, you can wash up and then we can eat.”
After washing his hands, Yan Ge came out. The servants had already set the table with food, and Yan Jiaqiang and the others were seated around it.
“Let’s sit down and eat,” Yan Jiaqiang’s tone was gentle.
Yan Ge was now more certain that his parents had some ulterior motive, seeing that they were all being so amicable. However, he didn’t show it, quietly eating and occasionally answering his parents’ questions.
After the meal, the family gathered in the living room.
“By the way, Yan Ge, did the wine in your private room last night really come from that Mr. Huangfu?” Yan Jiaqiang inquired.
Yan Ge answered truthfully, “It was brought by Yuchen. It’s brewed using the Huangfu family’s ancient method. The taste is different from regular wine. Dad, if you like it, I can have him send you a jar.”
Yan Jiaqiang continued, “Of course, that’s great. But do you know how the wine is brewed?”
Yan Ge sneered internally and smiled, “I’m not sure. Yuchen did mention he was interested in teaching me, but I wasn’t interested in learning and didn’t ask him about it.”
Yan Jiaqiang’s disappointment showed in his narrowed eyes, “I see. Yan Ge, you know that Jade Emerald Villa specializes in cuisine and emphasizes green and uniqueness. So, what I mean is, can you ask Mr. Huangfu if he’s willing to sell the recipe? Just think about it, the unique recipe could bring tremendous profits to our Yan family!”
Yan Ge shook his head, “Dad, you’re really putting me in a difficult position with this matter. It seems like Yuchen intends to start his own winery, so it’s unlikely he’d sell the recipe.”
Du Rulan furrowed her brows, “Didn’t you say he’s your lover? What kind of lover does not even give you this bit of face?”
Yan Ge was left speechless. He truly couldn’t believe that such words were coming out of Du Rulan’s mouth.
After a brief silence, he spoke again, “So, Mom and Dad, does this mean you both accept my relationship with him?”
“Impossible!” Du Rulan’s face turned cold as ice, and she said sharply.
Yan Ge found it amusing, and he actually burst into laughter, “Mom, Dad, in fact, I wanted to ask you both a long time ago: am I really your biological son?”
“Nonsense!” Yan Jiaqiang abruptly stood up, “You ungrateful child! How could you say something so disrespectful to your parents?” He raised his hand, intending to slap Yan Ge.
Yan Ge caught his wrist, pushed it away calmly, and stood up, “Yuchen’s class is ending soon, I should go.”
