Time flowed quietly, like water. Before they knew it, the day marking their legal marriage anniversary had arrived.
Once, this date had symbolized coercion, humiliation, and the beginning of a farce. But now, when Emma circled it again on the calendar, Her heart filled with gratitude— And a solemn reverence.
She wanted to redefine this day. Not as a reminder of a cold transaction, But as a celebration of rebirth— Of their relationship, Their family, And her own journey of redemption.
The night before, Emma fell asleep with a sense of sacred anticipation. She woke earlier than usual, Careful not to disturb Gu Liang or the babbling baby in the crib.
She tiptoed downstairs into the kitchen. Today, she declined the housekeeper's help— Determined to make breakfast for Gu Liang herself.
It was no small challenge, But she approached it with meticulous care, Following the recipe like crafting a delicate work of art.
When Gu Liang stirred, awakened by Ai Nian's morning sounds, He reached for his water glass— Only to find a folded note beneath it.
Emma's bold, slightly messy handwriting read:
"To my brightest morning and gentlest dusk: One year is not a shackle, but a beginning. In the dining room, I've prepared our 'starting point'—and my forever love. — Yours, Ma"
His heart fluttered. A smile tugged at his lips. He picked up the eager baby and headed downstairs.
The dining room was filled with the scent of food and warm sunlight. On the table: Heart-shaped sunny-side-up eggs, Perfectly toasted bread, Fresh fruit salad, And two steaming cups of milk.
Not as polished as the housekeeper's, But every detail radiated care.
Emma stood by the table in an apron, visibly nervous. When she saw them, her eyes lit up.
"You're awake? Try it—my first attempt. I hope it suits your taste."
She took the baby naturally, kissed his cheek, And pulled out Gu Liang's chair.
Gu Liang took a bite of the egg— Surprisingly delicious. He looked up at Emma's expectant gaze and smiled gently.
"It's really good."
Three simple words. Emma exhaled in relief, Her smile blooming like a child praised for the first time. Ai Nian waved his little hands, babbling as if cheering for his mother.
This breakfast, made by Emma's own hands, Set the tone for a day of warmth and sincerity.
That afternoon, Emma arranged for the nanny to take over, Then pulled Gu Liang out of the house with a mysterious smile.
She didn't take him anywhere extravagant— Just to a quiet, artsy district on the outskirts of the city.
No crowds. Just cozy studios, galleries, and charming cafés.
Hand in hand, They strolled the cobbled paths like any ordinary couple.
They stopped at a pottery studio. Emma had booked a couple's session.
"Let's make something special to remember today," She said with a playful wink.
Gu Liang was surprised, But agreed.
Aprons on, hands on clay— The sensation was new, grounding.
Emma had clearly practiced. Her technique was clumsy but earnest. Gu Liang, with his artistic touch, quickly got the hang of it.
Their hands met often, Covered in clay, Their laughter soft and easy.
Together, they shaped the clay— As if shaping their future.
They finished a pair of simple but elegant cups, Each imprinted with their handprints and Ai Nian's tiny ones.
"These will be our family cups," Emma said, satisfied.
Gu Liang looked at her— Sunlight catching the clay on her cheeks, Her face radiant.
She always found ways to move him— To turn ordinary moments into poetry.
That evening, Emma prepared a private dinner in their garden. Warm string lights, A long white tablecloth, Flowers and candles.
No guests. Just the three of them.
After Ai Nian was fed and asleep, Only Emma and Gu Liang remained.
The breeze was gentle. Candlelight flickered. The air smelled of food and fresh blooms.
Emma raised her glass— Filled with Gu Liang's favorite mellow red wine.
"Gu Liang," Her voice was deep, tender in the glow, "One year ago today, I stood across from you, Full of resistance and coldness. I thought it was the end— The beginning of a cage."
She paused, Her voice thick with emotion.
"But now I know— It was the turning point of my life. The greatest mercy the universe gave this foolish Alpha. Thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you for giving me the chance to learn how to love, How to take responsibility, How to become a real Alpha, A real partner, A real mother."
Her eyes shimmered with tears.
"This past year, I've regretted every day— And been grateful every day. Regret for hurting you. Gratitude for your presence. Gratitude for our beautiful Ai Nian."
"Today isn't about that paper contract. It's about our rebirth."
She set down her glass, Pulled out a velvet box.
Inside— Two uniquely shaped keys.
"These are the keys to our new home. I'm giving them to you again. This home will always prioritize your comfort. It will always be the warmest harbor for us and Ai Nian."
She looked into his eyes, Each word like a vow.
"Gu Liang, I love you. This love grows every day. And for every anniversary to come, I want to be beside you— Watching Ai Nian grow, Growing old with you."
Gu Liang listened quietly, Tears already falling.
He had seen Emma's transformation— From cold to caring, From avoidance to accountability, From selfishness to selflessness.
Her love wasn't sweet words— It was woven into her actions, Her presence, Her unwavering protection.
He reached out, Took the keys, Held them tightly.
Then looked at her, Eyes wet, Voice trembling but clear.
"Emma, I love you too. Not because of the child. Not because of duty. Just because you are you— The you who makes me feel safe and happy."
He stood, Walked to her, And kissed her.
A kiss salted with tears, But full of sweetness and promise.
In the candlelight, Their shadows embraced.
This anniversary was no longer a scar— But a mark of joy. It marked the end of something painful, And the beginning of something filled with love and hope.
Emma knew— Her love for Gu Liang had long surpassed pheromonal pull, Surpassed the bond of marking.
It was soul-deep. A vow to protect, To make amends, To love for a lifetime.
Happy anniversary, my love, She whispered in her heart.
And every year to come—I'll love you more than I do today.