As the final meeting concluded, a wave of relief washed over Chen Ke. The project, which had consumed so much of her energy and focus, was finally wrapped up. She took a moment to gather her thoughts, reflecting on the countless late nights, the stress, and the pressure she had endured. But now, it was all behind her.
With her heart racing in anticipation, she pulled out her phone and typed a message to Danni:
I finished the project! I'm finally free. Can't wait to see you!
The moment she hit send, she felt a rush of exhilaration. Danni was her safe haven, the person who understood her in a way no one else could. She wanted nothing more than to be wrapped in Danni's warmth, to share her triumph, and to finally breathe without the weight of expectation on her shoulders.
Just as she set her phone down, her father entered the room, a proud smile on his face. "Chen Ke, I just wanted to commend you on your hard work. You've really outdone yourself on this project."
"Thanks, Dad," Chen Ke replied, her heart swelling with a mixture of pride and relief.
"I'm sorry if I put too much pressure on you. I know I can be demanding, but I only want what's best for you," he continued, his tone sincere.
Chen Ke looked into her father's eyes, seeing the familiar blend of expectation and affection. "I understand, Dad. I appreciate the support. It was tough, but I learned a lot."
"I'm glad to hear that. You're going to go far, Chen Ke. Just remember to balance your work and your personal life. You deserve to be happy," he said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
At that moment, Chen Ke's thoughts drifted to Danni. She could feel the warmth of their connection pulsing in her chest. Danni was more than a distraction; she was a source of joy, a reminder of the life Chen Ke wanted to lead beyond the walls of corporate pressure.
As if on cue, her phone buzzed. Danni's reply lit up the screen:
Yay! That's amazing! I'm so proud of you! When can I see you?
Chen Ke grinned, unable to suppress her excitement. She quickly typed back:
How about tonight? Can you come over to my apartment? I want to celebrate with you."
Danni's response came almost immediately:
I'll make us something special. Can't wait!
As Chen Ke read Danni's message, her heart fluttered with excitement. The thought of celebrating with Danni filled her with warmth. She quickly typed a response, feeling a giddy anticipation.
Sounds perfect! I'll come by right after the company party. I can't wait to see you.
With that sent, Chen Ke closed her phone, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. The small company gathering was just a formality, a chance for her colleagues to unwind after the intense weeks of work. But all she could think about was Danni and the special evening they would share.
The party was held in a modestly decorated conference room, filled with balloons and a table laden with snacks and drinks. As the festivities began, Chen Ke found herself surrounded by her colleagues, who congratulated her on the project's success. Laughter and chatter filled the air, but her mind was elsewhere.
"Chen Ke! Join us for a toast!" one of her coworkers called, raising a glass of champagne.
"Cheers to Chen Ke, our star!" another chimed in, lifting her drink high.
Chen Ke smiled and raised her glass, feeling a mix of pride and exhaustion. As the clinking of glasses echoed around her, her thoughts drifted back to Danni. She could already envision the evening ahead—soft music, warm food, and the comfort of being with someone who truly understood her.
