Chapter 26: Xiuya Leaves Dayuan Port with Williams
131
Inside the chapel of Dayuan Port Church, the air was filled with the fresh scent of pine, and sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows, falling upon the exquisite wooden floor, casting mottled patterns of light and shadow. Golden candelabras hung from the towering dome arches, their points of light flickering in the air, adding a sense of mystery and solemnity to this sacred occasion. Within the chapel, Williams and Xiuya stood before the altar, surrounded by silent church members, only the nuns’ voices resonating through the air, echoing blessings of sanctity.
Xiuya wore a white Western-style wedding gown; the skirt swayed gently with her steps, gleaming with a warm luster. Her eyes were filled with both longing and anxiety for the future. Matthews, on the other hand, was dressed in an elegant tailcoat, standing at the altar, his gaze softly fixed upon the bride and groom. Shayan was clad in traditional Siraya chieftain attire, walking steadily and gracefully, holding Xiuya’s arm as they approached the altar. A motherly smile graced her face, her eyes conveying unspoken emotion and blessing.
Matthews raised both hands, speaking in a low, solemn tone: “O God, we thank You for this joyful wedding; we thank You for this wedding day of significant importance; we thank You for this important moment; we thank You for Your constant presence with us; in the name of Christ and the Holy Spirit. Amen.” The nuns beside him joined in singing hymns in unison, their voices echoing through the air, as if sending all blessings and love to the heavens.
Matthews continued reading: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy. Love does not boast, is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own interest, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs; it does not delight in injustice but rejoices with the truth…” His voice was full of power, reverberating throughout the altar.
At this moment, Williams slightly turned toward Xiuya, his eyes full of deep affection and promise, while Xiuya gently clasped his hand, her palm slightly warming, her heartbeat quickening.
Matthews spoke again, his tone even firmer: “Standing before God, I urge you both to remember that love and fidelity are the foundation upon which joyful and eternal homes are built. If you always uphold your solemn vows; if you steadfastly seek and follow the will of your Holy Father; your life shall forever be harmonious and happy; the family you establish shall withstand any change.” He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping across the bride and groom, then scanning the guests, “Of course, you must also remember that you do not walk life’s journey alone. When you face difficulties, do not hesitate to seek help from others. Helping hands come from friends, family, and the Church. Accepting others’ assistance is not shameful, but an act of sincerity. Around us, the Lord extends His helping hand. The hand of Jesus Christ is everywhere. Most importantly: we witness the union of this couple. Amen.”
Matthews bowed his head, placing both hands upon the Bible, speaking softly: “Please place your hands upon the Bible.”
Xiuya and Williams exchanged a glance, their eyes filled with trust and love, then each extended a hand, gently placing it upon the Bible. Their fingers intertwined lightly, appearing so harmonious and resolute.
Matthews turned toward Williams, his eyes shining with gentle light: “Williams, do you take Xiuya to be your wife, to live with her as a friend and companion? Do you love and respect her? Will you share with her equally in joy, in sorrow, in triumph, and in confusion?”
Williams slightly bowed his head, gazing tenderly at Xiuya standing beside him, his voice firm and affectionate: “Yes, I do!” His words were clear and strong, engraving every vow into his heart.
Upon hearing this, Xiuya’s eyes moistened slightly, and she softly replied, “I do!” Her voice was gentle yet resolute, as if in this moment her heart completely merged with Williams’ heart.
Matthews looked at them, a satisfied smile appearing on his face: “Before God and the guests, the couple pledges to be united in marriage, in sickness and in poverty, forever of one mind.” He paused for a moment, his gaze turning tenderly to the bride and groom, “The bride and groom exchange rings.”
Williams and Xiuya smiled at each other, then each reached for the other’s hand, gently exchanging rings. In this moment, the love and commitment in their hearts were symbolized by these rings.
Matthews then spoke: “The wedding ring symbolizes eternity; it signifies the eternal union of two hearts and souls filled with boundless love. Now, offer your love and your earnest desire to unite your hearts and souls forever as a gift to her. You may place this wedding ring on your bride’s finger.”
Williams took a deep breath, gently lifting Xiuya’s hand with both of his, carefully placing the ring on her ring finger. His gaze was focused and tender, as if time had stopped for them in that instant.
Matthews smiled faintly, his tone gentle and full of blessing: “Williams, you may kiss the bride.”
At this moment, Williams’ heart raced; he gently lifted Xiuya’s veil, his gaze tenderly locked onto her eyes, then leaned down to kiss her lips. In that instant, the world existed only for them, all light and blessings converging in this fleeting kiss. Shayan stood beside them, her smiling face glistening with tears. Her eyes were filled with maternal love and satisfaction, watching her daughter and her future, silently offering her blessings and fulfillment.
132
The sea breeze at the dock brushed gently, carrying a salty scent and a slight chill. The distant sky was shifting, the golden sunlight of the setting sun casting a ribbon of gold across the sea, illuminating the entire surface with brilliance. Along the dock, a few fishing boats swayed gently in the waves, while a sailboat prepared to depart. Its white canvas billowed lightly in the wind, and warm lights glowed on board, as if greeting the newlyweds, Williams and Xiuya. Shayan and Father Matthews stood on the dock, their faces carrying reluctant smiles, watching the couple set off.
Xiuya stood in front of Shayan, reluctant to part, gently holding her mother’s hand, speaking softly but with a trace of sorrow: “Sena, take care of yourself. We’ll be back soon.” Her voice trembled slightly, yet she forced a faint smile.
Upon hearing this, Shayan’s eyes displayed a trace of gentle sorrow. She lightly touched Xiuya’s hair, her voice steady but filled with deep affection: “Take this necklace and gold ring with you; they will bring you good fortune, Xiuya.” She bent down to remove the heart-shaped necklace from her neck, then gently took off the gold ring from her finger. In that moment, it seemed as if time slowed. Carefully, she placed the ring on Xiuya’s ring finger and hung the necklace around her neck. The golden necklace and ring were like two blessings, carrying endless maternal love.
Xiuya lightly touched the ring, tears welling in her eyes. She raised her head to look at her mother, her lips trembling, almost unable to speak. She reached out, hugging Shayan tightly, her voice weak but resolute: “Mother, I will carry your blessing with me.”
Shayan’s hand gently patted Xiuya’s back, as if wishing to convey all her strength and love to her. She smiled, though a faint tear shimmered in her eyes: “My child, go, I bless you.” Her voice was filled with boundless attachment and blessing.
Father Matthews lightly patted Williams on the shoulder, his gaze sincere and solemn: “Williams, take good care of your wife.” His tone carried a fatherly sense of responsibility.
Williams stood upright, his gaze firm, replying: “I will, Father.” He reached out, lightly patting Matthews’ hand, as if making a promise and taking responsibility. In his eyes, there was only love for Xiuya and infinite anticipation for the future.
Shayan turned to look at the ship about to set sail, her breath slightly quickened, her tone firm: “The ship is about to leave! Xiuya, board the ship.” Her voice carried a forced strength, attempting to appear calm, yet the deep affection and reluctance in her eyes made her voice tremble slightly.
Xiuya took a deep breath, looking back at her mother, her heart filled with indescribable emotion. She walked toward Williams, gently holding his arm, and together they walked toward the gangway. Each of Xiuya’s steps seemed to carry infinite memories and feelings, while Williams held her hand, walking steadily, sensing every unease and emotion of hers, silently vowing to protect her for life.
Father Matthews gently supported Shayan, and together they stood at the shore, watching the couple approach the ship. Shayan waved lightly, her eyes glistening with tears, yet her face still bore a smile, sending her daughter off with a final blessing. Matthews also waved, his face carrying a gentle smile, his eyes filled with calm and blessing.
The sailboat slowly departed from the dock, the canvas whistling in the wind, the vessel sailing steadily as if carrying all the blessings and hopes, gradually leaving this shore bit by bit. Shayan and Matthews stood at the edge, watching the ship disappear into the distance until it was completely out of sight. The sea breeze brushed their faces again, bringing a cool sensation, as if it were a blessing from the future.
133
When Shayan pushed open the wooden door of Junsheng Clinic, she was greeted by the familiar scent of herbs, accompanied by a warm glow. She carried a simple cloth bag on her shoulder, which made slight noises, as if containing the emotional burdens of her entire day. After the wooden door closed gently, the atmosphere in the room quieted. Kali and Bossman were sitting around the dining table, which was laden with steaming dishes, the steam appearing in the light as a thin mist, rendering the dinner atmosphere warm and intimate.
Kali put down his bowl, staring directly at Shayan, furrowing his brows, his tone filled with obvious displeasure: “Shayan, where have you been? We haven’t seen you all day.” His tone carried a trace of urgency and a hint of anger.
Shayan lightly freed herself from the strap of the bag and set it down, then walked toward the table, exhaling slightly before speaking calmly: “I went to the church to officiate Xiuya and Williams’ wedding.” Her tone remained calm, seemingly attempting to maintain composure, but her slightly flushed cheeks still revealed a trace of emotion.
Kali’s face changed abruptly, his brows knitting, eyes igniting with anger. He slammed down his utensils with a heavy motion, muttering in dissatisfaction: “What? Shayan, you…” His tone was full of surprise and anger, as if he could not comprehend Shayan’s choice.
Jia-mei was startled by Kali’s sudden reaction, her hand trembling, almost spilling her soup. She quickly withdrew her hand, eyes showing confusion and tension, whispering: “Uncle Kali, please don’t get so agitated…”
Seeing this, Bossman furrowed his brow slightly, then lightly waved his hand toward Kali, his tone a little helpless: “Don’t scare the child!” His voice was calm, trying to ease the tense atmosphere.
Lalu turned around, looking at Shayan with concern, smiling: “Shayan, you must be hungry. Come, have dinner.” Her tone was gentle, with a trace of care, as she pushed a steaming bowl of soup toward Shayan, her eyes shimmering with tenderness.
However, Kali clearly had no intention of stopping. He stood up in anger, slapping the table forcefully, producing a dull sound, and spoke again in an angry tone: “Why didn’t you listen to my advice, Shayan?” He strode toward the backyard, evidently unable to tolerate further argument, the tense atmosphere intensifying with each step.
At this moment, Bossman took a deep breath, turning toward Kali with a slightly heavy but firm tone: “Kali, calm down! Shayan did nothing wrong in doing this!” He shook his head helplessly, trying to make Kali understand that Shayan’s decision was not impulsive but carefully considered.
Lalu added: “Yes! Brother, not all foreign men are faithless. You should respect Xiuya’s choice.” Her tone carried a reluctant admonishment, also criticizing Kali for excessive interference in Xiuya’s affairs.
Ali stood up, walking beside Kali, patting his shoulder gently, his tone soft but caring: “Calm down, Kali.” His tone seemed to comfort him while also conveying understanding of Kali’s emotions.
Yet, Kali’s heart was still filled with raging anger. Ignoring everyone’s advice, he raised his hand to cover his eyes and brows, his anger unspent. Then he walked to the backyard, his face filled with helplessness and frustration. As he walked, he took a deep drag of smoke, the haze mingling with his inner turbulence. The scent of tobacco seemed to somewhat quell his surging emotions, yet the inner pressure could not dissipate.
134
The sailboat gently swayed on the azure sea, sunlight scattering across the surface of the water, reflecting streaks of golden light. A gentle breeze stirred the elegant long hair, making it dance with the wind, forming a serene and beautiful scene together with Williams beside her. At the edge of the ship, the two stood side by side, the surrounding seawater quietly lapping against the hull, producing a soft sound. In the distance, the sunlight shimmered on the waves, resembling a sea of sparkling jewels.
Williams spoke in a low voice, with a trace of excitement in his tone, pointing toward the distant sea: “Xiuyah, look, there is a pod of dolphins on the water, chasing a school of fish.” He slightly turned his head to look at Xiuyah, a satisfied smile on his face.
Xiuyah raised her head, her eyes glimmering with light. She gazed at the lively group of dolphins in the distance and gently nodded, “I see them.” Her tone was gentle, seemingly captivated by the magnificent scene, but then her gaze lowered again. She took off the heart-shaped necklace from around her neck, gently brushing over the small photo on it, and fell into contemplation.
Williams noticed the change in Xiuyah’s mood, gently turned toward her, and lightly placed his hand on her shoulder, asking with concern: “Xiuyah, what are you thinking about?” His tone was soft, his eyes full of care and curiosity.
Xiuyah was slightly startled, then lifted her eyes to look at Williams. Her voice was low and slightly sorrowful: “This is a photo of my parents on their wedding day.” She gently caressed the necklace, staring at the two people in the photo, a trace of nostalgia and loneliness in her eyes.
Williams frowned slightly, surprised, and asked: “Is this your biological father?”
A hint of confusion passed through Xiuyah’s eyes, then she nodded, her tone calm yet tinged with a trace of helplessness: “Yes, his name is Junsheng. My mother said he came from the Netherlands.”
Upon hearing this, Williams’ expression became even more surprised, a flicker of shock in his eyes: “What a coincidence? I know him!” There was a trace of astonishment in his tone, as if he could not believe such a coincidence.
Xiuyah looked at Williams, a puzzled expression on her face, her brow slightly furrowed: “You know him?”
Williams nodded, his tone becoming more certain: “This Dr. Junsheng lives near my house. In the past, my family and I often went to him for treatment. I heard he came from Amsterdam, Netherlands.” His tone conveyed a sense of familiarity, as if recalling memories of the past.
Xiuyah’s eyes instantly widened, and she asked in surprise: “Then that must be him. So he moved to England—no wonder for the past twenty years, I couldn’t get any news about him.” Her tone carried a mix of disbelief and a long-lost hope. She tightly held the necklace, as if suddenly driven by some impulse, raised her head to look at Williams, and asked urgently: “Can you take me to see him?”
Williams showed a warm smile, gently patting her hand, his tone firm yet gentle: “Of course! Being able to reunite you with your father is a good thing.” His eyes showed support and understanding, as if he could feel the expectation in Xiuyah’s heart.
Xiuyah looked into Williams’ eyes, her expression tinged with emotion. She gently nodded, her voice low yet with a hint of relief: “I thought I would never see my biological father again in this lifetime.” A glimmer of tears flashed in her eyes, as if the long-hidden regret in her heart might finally find an answer at this moment.
The sea breeze caressed them, the sailboat slowly gliding across the ocean, and everything around seemed to freeze in this moment. Only the gaze and words between the two engraved this memory permanently in each other’s hearts.
135
An English afternoon, sunlight streamed through the windows into the spacious living room, filling the air with a serene and warm atmosphere. The antique furniture in the room exuded a sense of history, and family photographs hung on the walls, quietly telling stories of the past. Outside, the garden was meticulously tended, the colorful flowers gently swaying in the breeze, as if flowing together with time.
Williams held Xiuyah’s hand as they stepped into this warm home. A trace of nervousness was on his face, but more than that, there was anticipation. He whispered to Xiuyah beside him: “This is our future. Perhaps here you will find some answers.”
Xiuyah’s gaze wandered, her mood complex—filled with expectation but tinged with a little unease. She tightly held the heart-shaped necklace and gold ring in her hands, these two meaningful tokens, ready to present them to the father she had not seen for a long time.
Junsheng sat on the sofa. Upon hearing the doorbell, he rose to greet them. When he saw Williams and Xiuyah entering, a flicker of surprise and curiosity passed over his eyes, and a smile immediately appeared on his face: “Congratulations, Williams. Please come in, both of you.” He greeted them warmly, with a tone carrying the familiarity of a long-unseen friend.
Williams smiled slightly, holding Xiuyah’s hand as they stepped into the living room. He turned to Junsheng, his tone earnest and respectful: “I have brought my newlywed wife to meet you, Doctor.”
Junsheng’s eyes immediately fixed on them, he paused for a moment, then nodded, his mood stirred: “Thank you, thank you both. Please, have a seat.” He gestured toward the sofa, signaling them to sit, his gaze unconsciously falling on Xiuyah’s face, as if searching for some familiar traces.
Williams gently nudged Xiuyah forward, his tone soft: “My wife wants to see you. She says you might be her long-lost family.”
Junsheng’s brow slightly furrowed, his expression showing some confusion: “Family?” He tried to process this sudden news.
Xiuyah took a deep breath, gently removed the heart-shaped necklace and gold ring, hesitated for a moment, then handed them to Junsheng. Her hand trembled slightly, as if she dared not look directly into his eyes. Junsheng’s hand trembled slightly as he took the two tokens, feeling the weight of the emotion. His eyes involuntarily welled up with a sense of excitement and shock.
Junsheng’s voice quivered slightly: “These two tokens, were they given to you by Shayun?” He paused, as if confirming everything before him.
Xiuyah’s voice was gentle yet firm: “Yes, Shayun is my sena. My name is Xiuyah.” Her gaze looked deeply at Junsheng, revealing a previously unspoken yearning in her eyes.
The shock in Junsheng’s eyes did not dissipate; instead, it deepened. He asked with concern: “Xiuyah, has your sena been well all these years?” His tone carried immense care, as if wanting to make up for the lost years.
Xiuyah lowered her head, tears welling in her eyes, her voice calm yet filled with endless sadness: “Sena goes to the pier every evening, waiting for my biological father to return.” She held the necklace tightly, as if feeling her mother’s loneliness.
Upon hearing this, Junsheng’s expression grew heavy, sorrow rising in his heart. He lowered his head, speaking with a tone full of pain: “I am sorry! I am the heartless man.” His hand trembled slightly, as if apologizing to his past self.
At this moment, Viana standing beside them was also affected by the atmosphere. Unsure of how to speak, she gently opened her mouth, attempting to defuse the tension for Junsheng: “You cannot blame Junsheng. When he left the Netherlands back then, he had no choice.” Her tone was gentle, as if trying to soothe Xiuyah’s emotions.
Xiuyah’s brow furrowed tightly, her tone slightly cold and indignant: “But for the past twenty years, you’ve been completely absent. That has been cruel to my sena.” Her tone was full of helplessness and disappointment, the pain long faded by time now surged back.
A trace of guilt appeared on Junsheng’s face. He said softly: “Xiuyah, I thought Shayun would be with Kari, and Kari would make her happy.” He gently lowered his eyes, his tone full of helplessness.
Xiuyah’s voice was cold and straightforward: “So you think that gives you the right to abandon us mother and daughter without any guilt?” She straightened her body, looking directly at Junsheng, her tone carrying pain that could not be concealed.
Junsheng lowered his head, appearing even more guilty, clasping his hands together, his tone sincere: “Xiuyah, I do not dare to hope for your forgiveness, but in my lifetime, I will do my best to make amends for my mistakes.” His tone was full of remorse and earnestness, as if longing for a trace of pardon.
Suddenly, Mary walked over from the side, apparently having heard fragments of the conversation. She asked, a bit confused: “Daddy, why is this sister speaking to you so rudely?”
Viana gently touched Mary’s head, smiling as she explained: “Mary, this sister is your father’s daughter. She has come from the Far East.” Her tone was gentle, with a hint of comfort.
Jack also stood nearby, appearing somewhat puzzled. He frowned and asked: “How can she be Daddy’s daughter? Why has Daddy never mentioned her?”
Viana smiled gently, her tone soft: “Twenty years ago, your father went to the Far East and married a girl there.”
Upon hearing this, Junsheng’s expression relaxed slightly. He stood up, turning to Williams and Xiuyah, his tone carrying some apology and gratitude: “Viana, since Williams and Xiuyah have come a long way, we should show them our hospitality.”
Viana smiled and nodded: “Okay, I’ll go prepare. Jack, Mary, come help Mommy in the kitchen.” She softly called the two children, leading them into the kitchen.
The atmosphere in the room remained quiet, but with Viana’s departure, this long-lost familial conversation seemed to find some room for relief.
