As Gu Liang's pregnancy progressed, his belly became impossible to conceal, even with tailored suits. Emma, with deliberate planning and Gu Liang's quiet cooperation, increased their joint appearances at public events. It was a signal— To the outside world, of Ai Group and First Heart Capital's solid alliance. To themselves, of a growing, unspoken rhythm.
At a high-profile charity auction, the room shimmered with luxury and power. Emma wore a black velvet suit. Gu Liang, a deep blue satin ensemble tailored for his pregnancy. They entered hand in hand— And the crowd turned.
Whether for business or curiosity about their dramatic marriage, People flocked to greet them.
Emma was flawless. She shielded Gu Liang from the crowd, Handled greetings—genuine or probing—with grace. Her cedar scent was stripped of aggression, Leaving only calm, steady protection— A silent shield against the chaos of others.
Gu Liang remained poised. Cool. But when offered congratulations—however insincere— He nodded politely, Sometimes even smiled.
His white tea scent was gentle, Blending with Emma's, Creating a quiet but formidable presence.
But there's always someone who doesn't know when to stop.
Mr. Wang, a construction magnate with a grudge against Ai Group, Tipsy and smug, approached with a drink in hand.
He flattered Emma, Then turned to Gu Liang's belly— Eyes oily, voice mocking.
"President Gu, what a blessing. Double happiness, eh?" He chuckled. "Just curious—will the child take the Ai name, or… yours? After all, First Heart Capital is your empire. Would be a shame if…"
The implication was venomous. He questioned the child's legitimacy, Mocked Emma's position, Suggested she was riding Gu Liang's coattails.
The room fell silent. Everyone watched.
Gu Liang's face turned cold. His eyes frosted over.
He opened his mouth— But a warm, firm hand pressed gently on his.
Emma.
She stepped forward, Subtly shielding him, Her gaze calm, Her smile faint— But devoid of warmth.
"Mr. Wang, you jest." Her voice was low, But it carried— Laced with Alpha authority.
"My child will bear the Ai name. That was decided when Gu Liang and I married. No need for your concern."
She paused. Let the words settle. Then continued, Slow and sharp:
"As for First Heart and Ai Group— We are strategic partners. There is no dependency. Gu Liang is my husband, And my equal. His achievements make me proud. And Ai Group's future includes him—inseparably."
Her gaze swept over Wang's stiff face.
"If you envy our unity, Perhaps focus more on your own family, Rather than meddling in ours."
The jab was precise. Everyone knew Wang's messy personal life.
His face flushed. Then paled. He stammered, "Excuse me," And fled.
Soft laughter rippled through the crowd. The looks toward Emma and Gu Liang shifted— From curiosity To respect.
Emma ignored them. She turned to Gu Liang, Her eyes melting into concern.
"You okay? Any discomfort?"
Gu Liang looked at her. At her genuine worry. At the tension in her jaw from defending him.
Something deep inside him cracked.
He shook his head. His voice softer than usual.
"I'm fine."
Emma exhaled. Relieved.
She gently took his arm again.
"Let's greet a few more people, Then head home. You need rest."
"Okay." No resistance.
For the rest of the evening, Emma stayed close. Her scent wrapped around him like armor.
And for the first time, Gu Liang didn't resist. He felt… safe.
On the drive home, They were silent.
But the air had changed.
Emma's cedar scent was relaxed, Saturated with quiet pride. Gu Liang's white tea was soft, Like moonlight blooming in stillness.
As they pulled into the garage, Emma reached to open his door— But Gu Liang spoke.
"Wait."
She paused. Looked at him.
The dashboard cast a dim glow. His face was turned away.
"Thank you. For tonight."
Not polite. Not distant.
Real.
Emma's heart clenched. Then flooded with warmth.
She opened her mouth— But no words came.
Finally, she whispered:
"You don't need to thank me. It's what I should do."
To protect you. To defend you. As your Alpha. As the father of our child.
No matter our past. No matter what comes next.
That truth Branded itself into her heart.
Tonight's defense Was a catalyst.
The ice hadn't fully melted— But trust had begun to sprout. A fragile shoot Pushing through the cracks.