《Times of Our Lives》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    Author¡¯s Note: Wishing that all readers of this work will be able to enjoy a relationship like this. Hope you¡¯ll have the time of your lives, and live with affection. Wishing you all to be eternally happy, blissful, a life filled with pleasure, and to good health.


    It was summer. Cicadas were singing and the sun was shining through the window onto Xie Meng¡¯s face. He could not help but raise his hand to block the sun, and the back of his shirt completely soaked.


    Swaying, the bus halted at the bus stop. Following the crowd, Xie Meng squeezed his way down the bus. He frowned and wiped the sweat off his face, and made his way to the school gate in the scorching sun.


    On the first day of school at W High, a festive red banner was hung across the school gate. On it was an old-fashioned message, ¡°Today I¡¯m Proud of W High, Tomorrow W High will be Proud of Me!¡± As a school that was not considered to be top-tiered, the quality of W High¡¯s teaching staff was not to be very diverse. As such, the enrolment numbers of new students were poor. There were only six classes in total for the first years, and each class had about forty students. Even on the first day of school, the campus did not seem very lively.


    As there were only six classes, they were not divided in any specific manner. Xie Meng found his name and student number under Class Three¡¯s roster. When he entered the classroom, he found that many people were already there.


    W High did not have an affiliated middle school. Most of the students here had either done badly in the high school entrance examinations or had poor grades in middle school. There were even a few girls with light makeup on, and they were looking curiously at Xie Meng.


    No air-conditioning was available in the classroom. Sweat was dripping down Xie Meng¡¯s face, and his shirt was sticking to his body. His fair neck looked radiant in the light.


    The whispers from the back row grew louder. As Xie Meng wiped his sweat, he took a seat. With his newly cut fringe, his eyes looked black and bright.


    ¡°Hey, Classmate.¡± A petite girl came up to him. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    Xie Meng looked up, again wiping his sweat.


    ¡°I¡¯m Wu Xiaomei.¡± The girl stuck her hand out, tilting her head adorably. ¡°How about you?¡±


    Xie Meng hesitated for a moment. He wiped his sweaty hand on his pants, then shook Wu Xiaomei¡¯s hand. ¡°Xie Meng.¡±


    ¡°I graduated from Q Middle School.¡± She pointed at the group of people at the back row. ¡°They¡¯re from L Middle School, and only Mimi is from the same school as me.¡± The girl referred to as Mimi was a little shy, from her seat, she smiled at the two of them.


    Xie Meng was silent for a while before he slowly said, ¡°I¡¯m from S Middle School.¡±


    ¡°S Middle School?¡± Wu Xiaomei was surprised. ¡°That¡¯s the best middle school in the province. I remember that it has an affiliated high school. Isn¡¯t that also the top school in the province?¡±


    Xie Meng gave an imprecise acknowledgment. Wu Xiaomei studied him and was about to continue asking, but had to give up with the successive arrival of more new students.


    ¡°Would you like to sit with us?¡± Wu Xiaomei invited warmly. ¡°The teacher isn¡¯t here yet.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, a fat man looking like the Maitreya Buddha walked in. With a booming voice, he laughed, ¡°Who said I wasn¡¯t here yet? Quick, go take your seats.¡±


    Wu Xiaomei pouted a little and returned to her seat reluctantly. Although there were still a few students absent, Maitreya could not wait any longer and started giving them their seating arrangement.


    ¡°Oh, a little handsome boy.¡± Maitreya called out. ¡°You¡¯ll sit in the middle. What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Xie Meng.¡± He brought his bag over.


    Maitreya glanced at him. ¡°I remember you. Your score was very high, you only needed a couple more points for direct enrolment in S High.¡±


    Xie Meng shook his head, ¡°I didn¡¯t do my best.¡±


    Maitreya patted his shoulder, ¡°A person sometimes accidentally misses a step in life. Continue working hard, don¡¯t be discouraged.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded and said earnestly, ¡°Thank you, Teacher.¡±


    Maitreya was buoyant, repeating ¡°no need to thank me¡±, he directed the rest of the students to their seats.


    ¡°Wu Xiaomei!¡± Maitreya was so loud that he gave people a shock. ¡°Don¡¯t always think of sitting next to a handsome boy! No puppy love allowed!¡±


    Wu Xiaomei replied impatiently, ¡°Who¡¯s thinking of puppy love! Can¡¯t I have some eye candy?¡±


    The rest of the students burst out laughing. Everyone was well-intentioned, and no one jeered. Xie Meng smiled as well. Wu Xiaomei blushed as she looked at him, playfully sticking her tongue out.


    Xie Meng followed a few other boys to collect his school books and uniform. The books were very very heavy, and a few trips had to be made to collect them all. On his nth trip, Xie Meng came back to find a few boys blocking the doorway.


    Maitreya seemed to be scolding someone, but his tone was not strict, ¡°Be a better student! You¡¯re late for the first day of school!¡±


    Then, he added, ¡°You dyed your hair? Get rid of it by tomorrow!¡±


    Xie Meng squeezed his way between two boys in the back row with an ¡°excuse me¡±, and the boy standing in front turned to look at him.


    ¡°I was born with this hair colour.¡± The boy turned his head back very quickly. Tugging at his fringe, he spoke lazily, ¡°Teacher, if I dye it black, that¡¯ll be actual dyeing.¡±


    Brought to agner, Maitreya rolled up the class list and smack the boy¡¯s head with it, ¡°Acting like a rascal, in what way do you look like a student?!¡±


    Even after getting hit, the boy was not angry. With a rakish smile, he spoke to the person next to him then looked for a place to sit. When Xie Meng was going to make another trip for the books, he stood up as well.


    ¡°I¡¯m Ji Qinyang.¡± The boy placed his hand on the corner of the table and introduced himself casually. He tilted his head to look at Xie Meng. With a smile on his face, he was very good looking.


    ¡°¡­ Xie Meng.¡± He paused before he said his name. Ji Qinyang nodded, mumbling to himself, he repeated Xie Meng¡¯s name.


    Without thinking about it, Xie Meng looked up at him, and the other person smiled at him.


    Someone came from behind and placed his hand on Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulder. He seemed to be very popular, and soon became one with the rest of the boys in the class. Xie Meng followed behind them, as they walked through the corridor, the wind blew in through the windows, and the blue curtains fluttered. Xie Meng stopped, he turned his head and shut his eyes, enjoying the cool summer breeze upon his face.


    Military training began the next day. The schedule that was originally spread across three days was all compressed within a day. Lining up in formation, marching, standing at rest, within half a day, many students could not handle it.


    Taking off his cap, Xie Meng went to wash his face, his fringe sticking to his forehead due to his sweat. Splashing his face with a couple of handfuls of water, as he was fanning his collar, he suddenly heard a loud whistle coming from the field.


    The instructor happened to be playing basketball with several boys, and Ji Qinyang was one of them.


    The boy was tall, and when he jumped up, his dark brown hair seemed to glow under the sun. Skilfully, he dribbled the ball past his opponent, and with a yell he shot the ball into the net.


    Xie Meng looked at that bright smile, and silently replaced the cap back on his head.


    Only when the lunch break ended were Ji Qinyang and his group of friends willing to come back. They were sweaty, looking as though they were steaming with heat. Just as Xie Meng was bending over to refill the water dispenser, he turned around to see Ji Qinyang behind him.


    ¡°Let me help you.¡± With a smile, the boy rolled up his sleeves. The sweat on his face had dripped to his neck. Just standing next to him, Xie Meng could feel the heat exuding off him.


    They worked together and replaced the bulky bottle for the water dispenser. Xie Meng thanked him, then walked off alone with the empty bottle. When he returned, he saw Ji Qinyang talking to the boy next to him.


    ¡°You seem to know Xie Meng quite well?¡± The boy asked without any malice.


    Ji Qinyang did not reply, shaking his head as he drank his water.


    ¡°People from S Middle School are very impressive. Not many people in the entire class would dare to take the initiative to talk to him.¡±


    Ji Qiyang smiled with a cock of his eyebrow, ¡°What an exaggeration.¡±


    The boy punched him lightly, ¡°He¡¯s good at studies, and proud.¡±


    ¡°So what.¡± Ji Qinyang spoke indifferently. ¡°He¡¯s now in the same school as us.¡±


    Xie Meng leaned against the door, only entering the classroom when they finished their conversation. When he walked past Ji Qinyang, he was sprawled across his table, and no one knew if he was asleep or not.


    Most of the girls were already awake. Wu Xiaomei crept over to Xie Meng and poked him on his shoulder. Putting her hands around her mouth, she spoke mysteriously, ¡°This Ji Qinyang is very famous in our school.¡±


    Xie Meng was a little curious, and just like her, he replied in a low voice. ¡°He¡¯s from your school?¡±


    Wu Xiaomei nodded. Under the boy¡¯s gaze, her face reddened a little. Mustering up her courage, she started gossiping, ¡°He only focuses on certain subjects, and he had won prizes with his chinese essays before. He can play many instruments¡­ I heard that after school, he would go to that kind of places to play, but I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s true or not¡­¡±


    ¡°That kind of places?¡± Xie Meng could not help repeating. ¡°What kind of places?¡±


    Wu Xiaomei looked a little evasive, she hesitated. ¡°It¡¯s not any place good¡­¡±


    Xie Meng blinked.


    Wu Xiaomei hurriedly continued, ¡°I¡¯ve also only heard it from others. It may not be true.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Wu Xiaomei might have felt that she spoke a little too much, she gave an embarrassed dry laugh. The two of them spoke a little more, only separating when the instructor came in.


    The afternoon was a repeat of the morning. However, the boys now had an additional activity, crawling forward. Twenty over boys were divided into two groups, and a few instructors set up the rope nets across the grounds. After a few practices, they were going to be timed, and the slowest group had to do a round of frog jumps around the field.


    Xie Meng was the leader of the first group, and Ji Qinyang was the leader of the second one. The instructor suggested for them to decide the order with an arm-wrestling match, whoever who lost would crawl first.


    Xie Meng pushed up his sleeves. Despite being in the sun for so long, his skin was still very fair. However, it did not look delicate, the lines of his arms had a youthful gracefulness to them. Ji Qinyang was already seated at the table, raising his arm with a smile on his face.


    The both of them clasped their hands together. Ji Qinyang¡¯s body temperature was a little higher, his palm was dry and warm. Xie Meng was lost in his thoughts, by the time he regained his wits, his hand had already been forced halfway down.


    Enthusiastic cheers erupted around them.


    Ji Qinyang was very strong, having gained the advantage, he tried forcing Xie Meng¡¯s wrist down, but it was not as easy as he thought it would be.


    The back of Xie Meng¡¯s hand always maintained a safe distance from the table. He did not tremble, and his hand remained steady. Ji Qinyang raised his brow, with steady amusement, he looked at the person across him, and realised that Xie Meng was frowning at him.


    Their eyes met, then Xie Meng suddenly relaxed. In the eyes of others, it looked like Ji Qinyang had successfully forced Xie Meng¡¯s hand down, but only Ji Qinyang knew that it was the other person who had decided to put his own hand down.


    Ji Qinyang did not express any special joy or displeasure after winning. He smiled cheerfully and patted Xie Meng¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Thanks bro.¡±


    Xie Meng replied politely, ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡±


    In this moment, they probably would not have thought that in the years to come, arm-wrestling would become the best way for them to resolve their differences. Winning or losing did not matter, as most of the time, winning was not dependent on strength, just like how Xie Meng purposely lost to Ji Qinyang today.


    Because, in their lives, winning or losing was not the only thing that was important anymore.


    That day, the collective timing of Ji Qinyang¡¯s group was two seconds slower than Xie Meng¡¯s group. With cheeky grins, the youths did their frog jumps around the field. The rays of the setting sun shone across the red running tracks, and the shadows crept along slowly. Due to the long distance, Ji Qinyang¡¯s face was blurry, but Xie Meng knew that he was definitely still smiling.


    There was no reason for it, that was just how he thought it would be.


    After the military training, their studies became more intense. The interactions between Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang were like raindrops falling into a lake, after a few ripples, they faded to nothing. Other than being in the same classroom, listening to the same teachers, completing the same homework, and being classmates, they did not have any other things in common.


    In the eyes of the teachers, Xie Meng was a model gifted student. He was calm and restrained, and even a little boring. He was not talkative, and the only person close to him was a boy called Zhang Ganggang, and the only reason for that was because their desks were next to each other.


    At the beginning, Zhang Ganggang was a little intimidated by Xie Meng. Thinking that the other had graduated from S Middle School, his results were great, and he looked very aloof, he would definitely look down on him. However, after interacting with him, he realised that that was not the case at all.


    Xie Meng was very gentle.


    Although it was a little sissy to use gentle to describe a boy, but Zhang Ganggang felt that no one was more suitable than Xie Meng to be described as gentle.


    Just like a pretty hard candy, so pretty that people were reluctant to eat it. Finally, after putting it in their mouth, they would feel that it was sweet, and then after biting into it, they would discover that even the heart of the candy was soft inside.


    ¡­ Zhang Ganggang felt that his description was a little mushy, but that was truly how he felt.


    Of course, Xie Meng did not know that his desk mate had described him like that. He was working on his algebraic homework, and once he was done, he placed it on Zhang Ganggang¡¯s desk.


    ¡°I¡¯ve calculated the problems already, take a look yourself.¡± Xie Meng was very patient. He had been deskmates with Zhang Ganggang for nearly two months, and nearly everyday he would have to do the mathematics class exercises and homework twice, not including the revision after each quiz.


    Zhang Ganggang joyfully took the exercise book. Following Xie Meng¡¯s calculations, he calculated them himself one more time, then erased Xie Meng¡¯s work when he was done.


    While erasing, Zhang Ganggang exclaimed, ¡°The midterms are coming.¡±


    Xie Meng was fairly indifferent. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What am I going to do with maths?¡± Zhang Ganggang moaned. ¡°Even you won¡¯t be able to save me¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng wanted to tell him that he had no intentions of saving him anyway.


    ¡°But it doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Zhang Ganggang suddenly cheered up. Xie Meng could almost see his HP level recovering. ¡°As long as Ji Qinyang is around, Maitreya won¡¯t look for me. Not only is Brother Yang has high HP, he can also taunt very well!¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s pen came to a stop. ¡°Ji Qinyang?¡±


    ¡°Brother Yang had once got a score of 1 for Mathematics in middle school, and the only reason why he got that mark was because his name was written very properly on the exam paper and his handwriting was very neat.¡±


    ¡°¡­ He handed in a blank paper?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang shook his head, ¡°No, he wrote a lot, why else would the teacher think that his handwriting was neat?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng was incredulous. ¡°He wrote so much, but they were all wrong?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang looked as though he completely understood. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. He just didn¡¯t know how to do it.¡±


    ¡­ This was too unbelievable. Xie Meng thought as he twirled his pen. He turned around to look at the back row. Ji Qinyang was writing something with his head buried, sweeping his gaze across the rostrum, their eyes met. Ji Qinyang was slightly taken aback, before smiling at him.


    Xie Meng looked at him, then looked away after awhile.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    After that, they did not know why, but their eyes would often meet each other. Sometimes, it was unconscious, but other times it was because one was looking at the other.


    During math class, Xie Meng would often be called up to the blackboard to complete the sums there. From the moment he stood up, Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes seemed to be glued to his back. Of course, it might be just a false impression, as many people were also watching him. Zhang Ganggang¡¯s eyes were especially passionate, so worshipful of this curve-wrecker to the point that he almost wanted to prostrate himself¡­ He even did not know when it started, but he now developed the habit of applauding whenever the teacher announced that Xie Meng¡¯s solution was correct.


    Each time, Xie Meng would awkwardly return to his seat amidst the cheers and the light boos from his classmates. At this time, if he was to look at Ji Qinyang, nine out of ten times he would be looking at him as well. His smile was very sincere, but his eyes were teasing, and he was also clapping.


    Zhang Ganggang had clapped til his hands were red, and he was very excited. ¡°Maitreya hasn¡¯t even taught us this, but you already understand it!¡±


    ¡°I always preview the lesson before class.¡± Xie Meng replied calmly.


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s blind worship was a little exaggerated. ¡°That¡¯s very impressive too!¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him, then flipped open the textbook and pointed to an example. ¡°Look, they¡¯re exactly the same. Only the numbers were changed. All I did was memorise the steps.¡±


    When Zhang Ganggang studied the example, he found that it really was the same.


    ¡°If you memorise the steps, you¡¯ll be able to do it as well.¡± When Xie Meng said this, it was as though he was discussing something easy like what he ate that day, and he patted Zhang Ganggang¡¯s arm in encouragement. ¡°You should go up to the blackboard next time and give it a try. If you get it correct, I¡¯ll applaud you.¡±


    Maitreya was good at teaching mathematics, and he was also humorous enough. When teaching geometry, he even brought a toy in the shape of an ant with him, just as though he was teaching little students. However, amongst his students there were only one that was like a child ¡ª Ji Qinyang.


    Only Ji Qinyang would jokingly ask him, ¡°Teacher, why would the ant climb on the cube? Is there sugar on top?¡±


    When going through algebra, he would also be the only that thought a + b should equal to ab.


    Maitreya was so angry that he wanted to swear, but he could not do anything with Ji Qinyang. Although the boy was not a conscientious student, and he did not always obey the rules, but he did not skip classes nor start fights, and never ever slept in class. Even if he wanted to chide him for not being dedicated to his studies, he could not find any reason to do so.


    ¡°You should work harder.¡± Maitreya grasped onto his patience tightly and advised the students earnestly. ¡°Learn from Xie Meng, preview your lessons before class, and revise again after class.¡±


    At that time, it was the evening¡¯s self-study session. Some students were engaged in a quiet discussion at the front of the classroom with the teachers, and Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice sounded out lazily.


    ¡°I did.¡± He laughed, ¡°But without any talents, I can¡¯t remember a single thing.¡±


    When Xie Meng heard him, he looked up unconsciously, and Ji Qinyang also happened to look towards him. He winked at Xie Meng, then suddenly pulled his lips down, stuck his tongue under his philtrum, rolled his eyes up and imitated the look of a gorilla. Seeing him, Xie Meng burst out laughing.


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang gave him a bewildered look. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Xie Meng coughed and composed himself. ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I choked on my water.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s look could be described as ¡°you¡¯re definitely deceiving me but I¡¯ll forgive you¡±. This entire afternoon, he had been talking to Xie Meng about a friend he just met online, and the whole time, his face was beaming with delight. ¡°I¡¯ll let you know, Rourou is super cute and super gentle, she even writes poems, can her writing skills be any better¡­¡±


    As Xie Meng listened, he looked towards the front of the class. Ji Qinyang had already looked away and was lazily provoking Maitreya, as though nothing had happened.


    Despite there being only a few more days to the mid-term examinations, Ji Qinyang invited Qi Fei to play basketball. Together with a group of seniors, they spent half the day on the court, only stopping after a break.


    Qi Fei was the boy who asked Ji Qinyang if he was close with Xie Meng. ¡°I heard that the Year 2s have started a band, are you interested?¡±


    Lying on the ground with his head resting on his arm, Ji Qinyang replied, unconcerned, ¡°It¡¯s just making some noise, how boring.¡±


    ¡°That might not be the case.¡± Qi Fei laughed. ¡°I think Yin Luoxue is the lead singer.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was a little taken aback when he heard Yin Luoxue¡¯s name. ¡°Why is she going along with them.¡±


    Qi Fei spread his palms. ¡°How would I know? She¡¯s chasing her boyfriend from such a long distance¡­ When did you guys break up?¡±


    Ji Qinyang snorted. His smile remained upon his face, but it did not reach his eyes. ¡°There¡¯s nothing between the both of us. She can do whatever she likes.¡±


    Qi Fei clicked his tongue. ¡°She¡¯s always been so crazy about you. After hearing that you¡¯ve enrolled in W High, she even followed you all the way here. During the military training, I did see her, her eyeballs were pretty much glued to you the entire time.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was noncommittal. The weather in November was a lot cooler, after lying down for a bit, he sat up and pulled his jacket around him. Turning back, he found Qi Fei copying a paper.


    ¡°When did you become so dedicated to your studies.¡± Ji Qinyang joked. He leaned over and took a look. ¡°Whose paper are you copying?¡±


    ¡°Xie Meng¡¯s.¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow, a little surprised. ¡°When did you become so close to him?¡±


    ¡°This has nothing to do with closeness.¡± Qi Fei replied indifferently. ¡°He gave me after I asked him for it, he¡¯s a pretty nice person.¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s expression changed subtly. He suddenly reached out and grabbed Xie Meng¡¯s paper, ignoring Qi Fei calling out behind him.


    Xie Meng¡¯s handwriting was as clean and neat as him. It could not be described as beautiful, but was tidier than most boys. After looking through it for awhile. Ji Qinyang lost interest, and tossed it back to Qi Fei before putting on his jacket properly.


    ¡°How long more do you need to finish copying?¡± Ji Qinyang kicked Qi Fei¡¯s knee lightly. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°What are we having?¡± Qi Fei slowly gathered up the papers. ¡°Mutton?¡±


    Ji Qinyang shook his head. ¡°I promised my mom to go home for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Sister Fairy is cooking today?¡±


    Ji Qinyang shot him a look. ¡°Who allowed you to address my mom this way?¡±


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s wrong with calling her Sister Fairy? The last time we went to the arcade, she was even chatted up by some college freshman, I didn¡¯t see you getting angry then.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not reply. He reached out and shoved Qi Fei¡¯s head away, a warning given with the amount of force he used.


    Xie Meng was alerted by others to the ringing of his mobile phone, the display showing Zhang Ganggang.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Zhang Ganggang¡¯s voice sounded rather anxious. ¡°I¡¯ve called you several times!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng sighed, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s many questions in the mock paper that I can¡¯t solve¡­ Rourou hasn¡¯t been around recently, where¡¯s your paper?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s with Qi Fei.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang cried out, ¡°Why did you give it to him? Based on our relationship, shouldn¡¯t you keep it for me?¡±


    Xie Meng rubbed at his nose, and could only say, ¡°Why don¡¯t you come and look for me, I¡¯ll go through it with you face to face.¡±


    ¡°Ok, ok! Give me your address, I¡¯ll be right over!¡±


    ¡°No. OO, XX Road, Room 2 on the 3rd floor.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang muttered, ¡°2¡­ 3rd floor¡­¡± He paused, and his voice became cautious. ¡°Isn¡¯t this the very famous martial arts centre in the city¡­?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xie Meng¡¯s tone was placid. ¡°I¡¯m in the Sanshou Hall, when you arrive, remember to come to the correct place.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    When Ji Qinyang returned home, Ji Shanrong was in the living room reading a newspaper. Seeing his son coming home, he did not look up, and only said, ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡±


    Mo Suyuan stepped out of the kitchen with a huge pot in her hands. ¡°Quickly wash your hands,¡± his mother urged. ¡°Your father brought some crabs home, have more today.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not have much of a preference for crabs. After washing his hands, he sat at the table, cracking the legs of the crabs disinterestedly. It was a rare occasion for Ji Shanrong to be home. He was a geologist, and often travelled the world on expeditions. His passion for rocks greatly exceeded his concern for his son.


    As Mo Suyuan peeled the crabs for both the father and son, she tried to make conversation with her son.


    ¡°Was school fun?¡±


    Ever since Ji Qinyang moved up to high school, Mo Suyuan never seemed anxious about it. She would only ask if school was fun, as though her son was there to play and not study.


    Ji Shanrong gathered up the crab roe, dipping it into vinegar, he fed it to his wife. Reminding her to be careful as it was hot, he watched as his wife ate it happily.


    ¡°¡­¡± Caught off guard, Ji Qinyang was force-fed a show of affection. He muttered, ¡°Singles also need to be cared for¡­¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Mo Suyuan smiled and poked Ji Qinyang¡¯s head, asking again. ¡°Was school fun?¡±


    Ji Qinyang bit into the crab leg and replied perfunctorily. ¡°It was ok¡­. Pretty interesting.¡±


    ¡°Any good looking girls?¡±


    Mo Suyuan: Are there any good-looking girls?


    Ji Qinyang gave a vague reply. ¡°¡­ I didn¡¯t pay attention.¡±


    ¡°What about good looking boys?¡±


    Ji Qinyang hesitated. Xie Meng¡¯s face suddenly flashed across his eyes, and his brows creased slightly.


    Mo Suyuan blinked and laughed, ¡°Oh? Is he as good looking as you?¡±


    Ji Qinyang shot a glance at his mother, then looked toward his father. Ji Shanrong was still slowly peeling his crab. The two of them exchanged looks, and the older man gave a fake cough. ¡°Why are you concerned about other boys?¡±


    Mo Suyuan smiled coyly, ¡°Getting jealous?¡±


    Ji Shanrong was completely helpless against this wife who still behaved like a young lady. ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Then, he placed the crab meat into his wife¡¯s bow.


    ¡°Go make more friends.¡± Mo Suyuan caressed her son¡¯s shaggy hair. ¡°You should have fun at school.¡±


    Hugging his bag, Zhang Ganggang stood trembling outside the hall. Xie Meng had greeted him before starting a practice match. His body clearly looked very slender, but as he exchanged blows with his opponent, he looked tenacious. Dressed in a close-fitting silk mandarin jacket, his sleeves fluttered with his actions.


    He only stopped after exchanging about thirty to forty blows with his teacher, wiping his sweat as he headed out of the hall.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your paper?¡± Xie Meng looked at Zhang Ganggang¡¯s bag. ¡°Which ones do you not know how to solve?¡±


    Only then did Zhang Ganggang remembered his objective in coming here, and hurriedly retrieved his paper from his bag.


    Hanging his towel around his neck, Xie Meng held the paper with one hand as he pulled out a pen to mark it. Zhang Ganggang stood by the side and looked at him. His fringe was a little long, and was hanging in front of his forehead damply.


    ¡°Bring this over here, then sum it up after square-rooting it¡­¡± Xie Meng paused, his eyes fell onto Zhang Ganggang¡¯s daydreaming face and sighed, ¡°Are you listening?¡±


    ¡°¡­ You¡¯re very good looking.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°When did you start learning Sanshou?¡±


    ¡°My health wasn¡¯t good as a child, so my grandmother sent me for classes¡­  So, this geometry problem¡­¡±


    ¡°Hold on first, no need to hurry.¡± Zhang Ganggang was completely distracted. ¡°Is it useful to learn this? For self-defence or something¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°To save damsels in distress?¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him, speechless.


    ¡°To give a helping hand and uphold justice?¡± Zhang Ganggang gave a hero¡¯s pose.


    Xie Meng finally could not hold it back anymore. ¡°I¡¯m only learning Sanshou, and did not become Superman or Spiderman. What exactly are you thinking?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang still did not give up. ¡°Then, what¡¯s the point of learning it?¡±


    Xie Meng bit the bullet and replied, ¡°It¡¯s first to improve your health and fitness¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s eyes had turned starry. ¡°Then?¡±


    ¡°Then¡­ Maybe¡­¡± Xie Meng was getting nervous as Zhang Ganggang watched him, and finally said reluctantly. ¡°Then to¡­ protect the country?¡±


    ¡°No matter what.¡± Zhang Ganggang looked at Xie Meng seriously. ¡°You¡¯re really very cool.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Thank you.¡±


    After explaining the questions to Zhang Ganggang, it was nearly dinner time. The two of them settled their dinner at the mutton restaurant outside the martial arts centre.


    ¡°Rourou has been very busy recently. I think they¡¯re about to take their exam too.¡± Zhang Ganggang slurped the noodles. ¡°She even want me to study hard and progress everyday.¡±


    Xie Meng was squinting and carefully picking out the garlic in his bowl. Hearing the words ¡°study hard and progress¡±, he was surprised. With his clear, black eyes, he stared at Zhang Ganggang through the steam wafting off the mutton soup, and did not say a word.


    Zhang Ganggang seemed to understand his suspicions, and a blush quickly infused his baby face. Stumbling, he replied, ¡°We, we¡¯re not dating¡­ W-we¡¯re only encouraging each other¡­ Sh-sharing¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t like her?¡± Xie Meng finally managed to pick out all the garlic. Picking the noodles up, he blew at them gently. ¡°Everyday, other than asking me about your homework, everything else you talk about has to do with Rourou¡­ How did the two of you know each other?¡±


    The blush on Zhang Ganggang¡¯s face had yet to fade, and he looked both awkward and shy. ¡°We met in a study group¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng did not understand what a study group was¡­


    ¡°It, it¡¯s a group of good students discussing homework and their studies¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang was a little embarrassed. ¡°I, I sneaked into S High¡¯s study group.¡±


    Xie Meng opened his mouth. ¡°¡­ Copying each other¡¯s answers?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± Zhang Ganggang was alarmed, and retorted righteously. ¡°Rourou is very smart! The questions they talk about are all very difficult, and they¡¯re all very serious and enthusiastic during the discussion!¡±


    Xie Meng could not imagine that the image was as beautiful as Zhang Ganggang described. After a moment of thought, he asked, ¡°Do they know you¡¯re from W High?¡±


    ¡°They don¡¯t know¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang became desolated. ¡°I¡¯m too embarrassed to mention it. The topics they discuss are all very difficult, I don¡¯t understand any¡­ Once I accidentally asked about something I didn¡¯t know, and Rourou was the only one who answered me.¡±


    Xie Meng remained silent. He patted Zhang Ganggang¡¯s arm before saying, ¡°You¡¯re fine. Not understanding the topic is nothing to be ashamed of. It¡¯s their problem if they ignore you.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang smiled. ¡°That was what Rourou said as well.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. ¡°She must be outstanding.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang blushed again, giggling as though he was the one complimented.


    ¡°You¡¯re very outstanding too.¡± Zhang Ganggang poked Xie Meng¡¯s arm gently. ¡°I¡¯m sure you understand all the topics that they¡¯re discussing too. It¡¯s just that you¡¯re not in S High, it¡¯s no big deal?¡±


    Xie Meng laughed in spite of himself. He poked Zhang Ganggang back. ¡°There are only two things in this world that¡¯s fair. One is knowledge and the other is time. Once you get that, it doesn¡¯t matter which school you¡¯re in.¡±


    His mouth stuffed with noodles, Zhang Ganggang raised his thumb at him with a worshipful look.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Taking his time, Xie Meng finished up his last mouthful of the mutton soup. ¡°But I wasn¡¯t the one who said that statement.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    After the mid-term exams, the weather quickly cooled down. Xie Meng woke up at 6am to prepare some milk for his grandmother. While waiting for the water to boil, he practised a set of Sanshou. As he was going through the last motions, a palm suddenly entered his vision. Xie Meng retreated a few steps, then responded to his opponent, and within one or two minutes, they had exchanged over ten blows.


    ¡°Watch your legs!¡± Zhang Luojuan was short, and her feet were nimble and accurate. Xie Meng bent his knees, avoiding the attack before he steadied himself.


    ¡°Grandma.¡± Xie Meng was resigned. ¡°How many times have I told you not to use your feet? You¡¯re too old for this.¡±


    Zhang Luojuan was dressed in a martial arts outfit. She clearly had just returned from her practice, with her white hair and youthful face, she looked fresh and bright.


    ¡°Why?¡± Zhang Luojuan shot a look at her grandson and smiled, ¡°Are you looking down on an old lady¡¯s feet? You think they¡¯re not deft enough?¡±


    Xie Meng facepalmed, ¡°¡­ You know I don¡¯t mean it that way.¡±


    Zhang Luojuan snorted. ¡°Your master was taught by me.¡±


    ¡°Yes yes yes.¡± Xie Meng returned to the kitchen to prepare the milk, and even from a distance he did not forget to coax the old lady. ¡°Not only are you my good grandmother, you¡¯re also my grandmaster, alright?¡±


    Zhang Luojuan was amused by the teasing, and laughingly scolded Xie Meng.


    The scores of the mid-term exams were posted on the blackboard, and only the top twenty students could be seen on the list, and all subjects were listed as well. Xie Meng ranked first in the list, and unexpectedly, Ji Qinyang was within the top five too.


    Although his scores in the four science subjects were horrendous, but they could not distract from how his scores in the other five subjects were close to perfect.


    The name Ji Qinyang was no different from the other names on the list, but it seemed to be gold-plated, and glittered in the midst of words.


    Zhang Ganggang looked at it with some jealousy. ¡°His biasness for subjects can even be so high-profile¡­¡±


    Xie Meng did not say a word. As he patted at Zhang Ganggang¡¯s head, he turned to see Ji Qinyang leaning against the classroom door looking at him.


    The boy seemed to have grown taller, his dazzling features looked delicate, and he had a lazy faint smile on his face.


    After their eyes met, Xie Meng lowered his head, and looked away without a trace.


    Qi Fei was late, and when he saw Ji Qinyang he casually asked him, ¡°How come you¡¯ve been so early recently?¡±


    ¡°I came with someone.¡± Ji Qinyang yawned, his tone indifferent. Unconsciously, he looked towards the row in front. Xie Meng was dressed in a khaki woollen coat, and his black hair was a little long, covering half of his pale neck. The boy seemed to be very scared of the cold, he pulled down his sleeves to cover his hands, only exposing his fingers that were holding a pen.


    Qi Fei looked towards the direction at where he was staring. ¡°What are you looking at, what¡¯s wrong with Xie Meng?¡±


    Ji Qinyang lifted his chin. ¡°He¡¯s pretty tall.¡±


    ¡°Is he?¡± Qi Fei was very doubtful. He suddenly cupped his hand around his mouth and whispered, ¡°Xie Meng¡ª¡±


    Xie Meng took awhile before he finally turned his head back. He first looked at Ji Qinyang, then turned his eyes towards Qi Fei with a questioning look.


    The teacher had already arrived, so Qi Fei did not dare to speak loudly. He continued whispering audibly, ¡°What¡¯s ¡ª your ¡ª height?¡±


    Xie Meng frowned slightly, and seemed to be processing Qi Fei¡¯s question.


    Afraid that he did not understand, Qi Fei gestured at his head, signalling their heights.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng showed three numbers using his hand.


    As his actions were too fast, Qi Fei did not see it clearly. Just as he wanted to ask him to repeat them, he saw Ji Qinyang suddenly pointing at himself.


    Xie Meng raised his brow. His eyes brightened, and he made a basketball shot gesture.


    Xie Meng raised his eyebrows. His eyes were bright and he made a shooting position: ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang nodded, and crooked his index finger showing a hooking action.


    Xie Meng hesitated, but still waved his hand. The teacher just happened to look over in their direction, and Xie Meng could only turn back.


    Ji Qinyang clicked his tongue, a little unhappy.


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°What on earth were you talking about?!¡± He was frantic. ¡°Why didn¡¯t I understand a single bit of it?¡±


    After that short episode accidental charades, the relationship between Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang also did not suddenly warm up. After all, the differences between their looks to their social circles were completely different. One played basketball after school, and the other did his homework after class. Each went his own way, the log bridge was still the log bridge, and the broad path still remained bustling every day.1


    After one of their basketball games, Qi Fei saw the belle of Class Five waiting by the court.


    ¡°Huh.¡± Qi Fei passed the ball to Ji Qinyang. ¡°When did you hook up with her?¡±


    Ji Qinyang dribbled the ball past another player, shooting the ball, he comfortably got a three-point shot. Turning around to look by the side of the court, he laughed. ¡°I¡¯ve forgotten when.¡±


    Qi Fei huffed, then he took a look around the court, but did not see Yin Luoxue.


    Ji Qinyang knew who he was looking for, and gave him a shove, mocking him, ¡°You just want to see some drama that badly?¡±


    Qi Fei obediently gestured to zip his mouth shut. He had been buddies with Ji Qinyang for so many years, he knew that although he usually looked as though he had a good temper, but if his bottom line was touched, he could torture the person to death.


    The belle of Class Five was called Sun Tian. Unlike Yin Luoxue¡¯s mature and adult manner, she was as sweet and lovely as her name.2


    As soon as Ji Qinyang was done playing, she dutifully handed him a bottle of water.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Ji Qinyang unscrewed the bottle with a smile. Picking up his school bag, he reached out with his arm, and placed it familiarly around the girl¡¯s shoulders.


    Sun Tian¡¯s face was a little red. There were many girls on the sidelines watching Ji Qinyang, and many of their eyes fell onto Sun Tian.


    ¡°Today,¡± Sun Tian pretended to speak casually. ¡°I happened across Yin Luoxue.¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s expression was calm, and even his tone did not waver.


    Sun Tian knew that he meant ¡°I got it¡±, but she was still somewhat not resigned to that answer. ¡°Are the both of you¡­ still friends?¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked down at her, replying coldly. ¡°Probably not.¡±


    Sun Tian finally smiled. She tilted her head cutely, ¡°What do you dislike about her?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Ji Qinyang thought for a moment. ¡°I like obedient people.¡±


    He caught Sun Tian¡¯s hand. ¡°Just like you.¡±


    When they were about to reach the school gate, Sun Tian suddenly discovered that she had left something behind in the classroom. Ji Qinyang told her that if it was not anything important, then just forget about it.


    ¡°It¡¯s homework.¡± Sun Tian was vexed. She shooked Ji Qinyang¡¯s arm coyly. ¡°Can you come along with me to go get it?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled. ¡°It¡¯s not very feasible for me to go to your class.¡±


    Sun Tian pouted. After whining for a while, she saw that Ji Qinyang was not moved at all, and so reluctantly went back to look for it.


    Idly, Ji Qinyang headed towards the gate with his hands in his pocket. With a few steps, he suddenly saw a familiar figure. His feet paused, and with their backs facing him, they clearly did not notice his presence.


    ¡°I don¡¯t blame you.¡± The boy¡¯s voice was a little helpless. ¡°At that time, that situation¡­ was really very awkward.¡±


    Xie Meng never expected to be accosted by Lin Weixin at the school gate after school. He had not told a single of his middle school classmates that he was enrolled into W High, and he did not know how long it took for her to find him.


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you go to S High?¡± Lin Weixin gradually became agitated, and even her eyes were red. ¡°You¡¯re still blaming me¡­ blaming us. Your grades could clearly¡­¡±


    ¡°My grades really didn¡¯t make it.¡± Xie Meng interrupted her. His voice was gentle yet cool, ¡°I missed the acceptance score by one mark. It can be seen from the transcript, do you think I¡¯ll lie to you?¡±


    Lin Weixin remained silent. From Ji Qinyang¡¯s angle, he could roughly see that the other person was hugging Xie Meng, and her intermittent sobbing was mingled with the boy¡¯s gentle consolations.


    Lin Weixin finally still had to leave. Staring at her back, Xie Meng sighed deeply. Turning around, he came across Ji Qinyang.


    Ignoring Xie Meng¡¯s surprise and nervousness, Ji Qinyang gave a carefree wave. ¡°Hi.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng¡¯s mouth was open.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Your girlfriend?¡±


    Xie Meng smiled wryly. ¡°Not anymore.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Ji Qinyang wanted to continue asking, but he heard Sun Tian shouting his name not too far away.


    There was a moment where the boy¡¯s expression seemed unhappy and frustrated about being interrupted. He stared at Xie Meng¡¯s face, and his brows creased slightly.


    This time, Xie Meng¡¯s smile was real. He pointed behind Ji Qinyang, ¡°Your girlfriend is calling out to you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang sighed, unwilling to say much. ¡°Mn.¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him, and again smiled softly.


    ¡°Ji Qinyang.¡± He waved. ¡°See you tomorrow.¡±


    Xie Meng seldom smiled, not because he was a very serious person, but because he was used to it. Most of the time he was buried in his books or was doing his homework, looking very handsome, and behaved as though he was a silent quartz. However, he smiled twice at Ji Qinyang today, causing the latter to keep thinking about those smiles on the way home.


    Just like the drifting snow lit up by the street lamp in winter, the entire world was black, and there was only that one patch of radiant white snow, cold, yet gentle.


    When Lin Weixin came back again, Xie Meng realised that this person would not be easily dismissed. A little helpless, he looked at that girl standing by the school gate who refused to leave.


    ¡°The finals are coming. Don¡¯t you need to study?¡±


    Lin Weixin stubbornly said, ¡°Study with me.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re in different schools, and our exam topics are different. Why should we study together?¡±


    Lin Weixin remained silent. Xie Meng rested his forehead in his palm, and spoke up after a moment of silence. ¡°You know what¡¯s my reputation like amongst your classmates. Don¡¯t be too close to me.¡±


    ¡°Those are just lies! Now, I know I was wrong, can¡¯t you forgive me this time?!¡± Lin Weixin burst out suddenly. She sobbed, ¡°You¡¯re still blaming me¡­ I was also very scared¡­ My own boyfriend might be g¡ª¡±


    Lin Weixin clamped her mouth tightly with her hands.


    Expressionlessly, Xie Meng looked down at her. After a long pause, he slowly said, ¡°You knew that I wasn¡¯t. At that time, you could have stood up to prove it, but you didn¡¯t.¡±


    Lin Weixin shook her head desperately. She wanted to reach out and grab Xie Meng¡¯s sleeve, but the boy avoided it.


    ¡°You¡¯re just like them.¡± Xie Meng said dispassionately. ¡°You¡¯ll rather believe those few photos, than believe me.¡±


    The first thing Zhang Ganggang did when he returned home was to turn on his computer. After logging in to QQ, he then took out his homework and started working on it. Today, the S High¡¯s group conversation was very lively. Zhang Ganggang did not care at first, until he saw a familiar name.


    ¡°Xie Meng? That Xie Meng?¡±


    [Experimental Class ¨C Li]: Wasn¡¯t he very famous in middle school? Even the high school knew about it. He seemed to be in a relationship with a male teacher?


    [Experimental Class ¨C S]: I know about him too. At that time he was well known in the school¡¯s BBS. He was the beau of the middle school, and his grades were excellent.


    [Graduating Class ¨C A]: It¡¯s true that he¡¯s handsome, and as for his grades¡­ With his relationship with a male teacher, he must have gotten the examination answers before hand. If he was really that excellent, he wouldn¡¯t have done so badly during the high school entrance examination.


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s initial surprise turned to rage, and when he saw the last sentence, his face flushed with anger. Tossing his homework aside, he typed at his keyboard with all his might. ¡°Xie Meng would never do such a thing like getting the examination answers! He¡¯s so outstanding! Without getting any answers, he can still score very well!¡±


    [Graduating Class ¨C A]: ¡­ Who are you? It¡¯s as if you know him very well.


    Zhang Ganggang: I¡¯m his friend! I¡¯m with him every day! You all don¡¯t even understand him, how can you say such nonsense behind his back!


    [Experimental Class ¨C S]:  Tsk tsk tsk see this, he¡¯s with a homosexual everyday~ I remember that he¡¯s in W High now, you said that you¡¯re with him daily, doesn¡¯t that mean that you¡¯re from W High?


    Zhang Ganggang froze in front of his computer.


    [Graduating Class ¨C A]: @administrator How come people from W High can enter the S High group conversation? Can we stop letting all these random people join us?


    Zhang Ganggang did not continue looking at it. He directly logged out of QQ, shut down his computer, and climbed onto his bed without even changing his clothes. Wrapping himself up in his blanket, he was still angry, and even more aggrieved. However, he did not know if he was feeling that way for Xie Meng or for himself.


    When his phone notified him of an incoming text, Zhang Ganggang was still mired in injustice. He hesitated for a moment before reading the text.


    Darling Rourou: I¡¯ve seen the chat history, and kicked out those people already. It¡¯s not your fault, don¡¯t be angry.


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s mood improved a little, and he replied: Can I give you a call?


    After a long while, he finally received a reply: My parents are both at home¡­ It¡¯s not very convenient, sorry.


    When his goddess apologised, Zhang Ganggang was immediately flustered, and was full of self-reproach: It¡¯s my fault! My fault! You¡¯re so outstanding your family must be very strict¡­ I was the one who went too far QAQ


    Darling Rourou: Don¡¯t say that, you¡¯re very good.


    After a while, he received another text: I missed you very much today, did you miss me?


    Zhang Ganggang blushed. After interacting with each other for so long, he always felt that Rourou, unlike the other girls, she was not as reserved. He was clearly the boyfriend, but the other party was a lot more proactive¡­ Zhang Ganggang reflected silently. After he responded to the text, he climbed out from his blanket. Retrieving his hidden journal from his drawer, he conscientiously copied down the contents of the texts.


    A few days before their finals, the first snow in winter fell upon Suzhou City. Maitreya was still going through the last few questions in their mock-exams, but several students sitting by the window started getting restless.


    Wu Xiaomei was the first to shout. ¡°Wow, the snow is super heavy!¡±


    Maitreya did not get angry. ¡°Fine, I know, I know! I¡¯m about to be done! I¡¯ll let you guys off to play soon!¡±


    The students all laughed, and Xie Meng too could not help turning to look outside the window.


    Beyond the dark blue curtain, snowflakes were falling through the air, landing on the holly trees outside the classroom.


    Through the reflection of the glass window, Xie Meng saw Ji Qinyang, and their eyes met. In this rare occasion, the former did not look away, and the snow silently accumulated on the window sill. Eventually, the condensation on the window gradually blurred away their expressions.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    By the time school was over, the snow had piled up. Zhang Ganggang was so excited that he ran screaming into the school yard, while Xie Meng pulled his overcoat on and wrapped a scarf around most of his face before he slowly walked into the snow.


    For a southern city like Suzhou, it was very rare to have such heavy snow. The students¡¯ excitement was no less than how they felt about the Lunar New Year.


    ¡°Let¡¯s play for while before we leave.¡± Zhang Ganggang looked at Xie Meng expectantly. ¡°Did you apply for leave with the martial arts center today?¡±


    Xie Meng tugged his scarf down, and his breath came out in a mist of white. Looking around, he agreed, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang pumped his fists up in the air, ¡°Yeah!¡±


    In the distance, Qi Fei shouted from the edge of the field. ¡°Hey! Zhang Ganggang! Come over quickly! We¡¯re having a snowball fight with Class Five!¡±


    Xie Meng looked in the direction of the voice, and immediately noticed Ji Qinyang¡¯s conspicuous light hair in a glance. Despite it being winter, the boys were all dressed in very few layers, and leaving their jackets unzipped, they were all prepping snowballs.


    ¡°We only have 20 boys in our class, it¡¯s a big disadvantage.¡± Qi Fei was a very competitive person, and his eyes were almost burning with a desire to win. ¡°Line up in formation, we cannot lose.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°We¡¯ll just screw with them when we see them, why do we need a formation?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was not concerned with winning this battle. He was holding his phone up and taking selfies, insisting on dragging Xie Meng into the photos with him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t raise your phone up so high.¡± Xie Meng motioned him to put it closer to them.


    Zhang Ganggang was a little worried, ¡°If it¡¯s too close, will it make my face look fat¡­¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Qi Fei pinched Zhang Ganggang¡¯s cheek. ¡°Look at your baby fat! Stop taking photos, come and make some snowballs.¡±


    A group of them crouched down and started piling up snowballs. Xie Meng was the only one not wearing gloves, and after making just one snowball, his fingers were red with cold. Ji Qinyang saw him, then removed one of his gloves and passed it to him.


    Xie Meng did not reject it, and gave a fleeting smile. He said politely, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. He watched as Xie Meng tugged on his scarf, pulling it over the tip of his nose, and revealing only a pair of black eyes, looking just like a boy who had yet to grow up.


    ¡°What are the two of you still doing?¡± Qi Fei swung his arms, starting his warm-up. The people from Class Five had already stood up, ¡°Ready¡­ Zhang Ganggang! Don¡¯t run around!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang ran away from the flying snowballs, yelling all the way. Qi Fei swore, and yanked him behind himself, picking up a huge snowball and tossing it over. Ji Qinyang pulled Xie Meng up, and a snowball shot between them. Ji Qinyang returned the attack, and hit the head of the person closest to them.


    Zhang Ganggang had his phone raised up again, ¡°Let¡¯s take photos!¡±


    Shoving his head, Xie Meng dodged a snowball. After hearing a shutter sound, on the screen was a hideous baby face with distorted facial features.


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡­¡± Xie Meng scratched his nose. ¡°Just take another one.¡±


    Another snowball was aimed at them. Xie Meng leaned backwards, and heard a loud ¡°Fuck!¡± behind him. The class monitor of Class Five shouted gloomily, ¡°Aim properly! Can¡¯t you see that it¡¯s our own people here?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang laughed until he convulsed. He no longer took photos, and switched to taking videos instead.


    Both of Qi Fei¡¯s hands were full of snow, just as though he was fighting them in close combat. Ji Qinyang had been besieged by a few people, and his coat and hair were in a mess. Xie Meng unwound his scarf, shook it hard, and wrapped Ji Qinyang in it face to face. With a turn of his leg, he kicked a snowball that was flying towards them, but unexpectedly, the snowball was packed too loosely, and it disintegrated, spraying snow into his face.


    ¡°Hahahahahahaha!¡± Zhang Ganggang laughed heartlessly, only to have a handful of snow suddenly shoved into his mouth.


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°Hahahahahahaha!!!¡±


    Xie Meng brushed off the snow on his face, and looked back to see Ji Qinyang patting his coat. The boy¡¯s shaggy hair was covered with ice, and half of Xie Meng¡¯s scarf was hanging off his head, and the other half around his neck.


    Zhang Ganggang came running over, shivering with cold. He did not forget about taking photos, wanting one with Xie Meng. Qi Fei also took his phone out, capturing the miserable figures of Class Five. Out of habit, he asked Ji Qinyang, ¡°Do you want to take a shot too?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not disagree, wrapping the scarf around him, he took a photo with Qi Fei.


    ¡°You¡¯re too good looking.¡± Qi Fei grumbled. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have taken a photo with you.¡±


    Hearing that, Zhang Ganggang leaned over and said energetically, ¡°Let¡¯s take a photo together!¡±


    He dragged both Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng in front of the lens, while he could only half-crouch right at the front, making his baby face look larger.


    ¡°Let¡¯s use my phone.¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly said. ¡°Your phone is running low on battery.¡±


    Only then did Zhang Ganggang noticed the low battery sign at the upper right corner of his phone.


    Ji Qinyang fiddled with the camera on his phone. He looked at Xie Meng and smiled lazily, ¡°Let¡¯s take a photo together?¡±


    Xie Meng felt that he had taken a lifetime¡¯s worth of selfies that day. Zhang Ganggang even had a portable battery charger with him. Ji Qinyang only took one shot with Xie Meng, after that, his phone was taken away by Qi Fei to shoot all sorts of rubbish.


    Xie Meng returned his one glove to him.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Xie Meng said with a smile.


    Ji Qinyang looked at the other person¡¯s smile. He was still wrapped in Xie Meng¡¯s scarf, and had no intentions of removing it. ¡°I¡¯ll wash it and return it to you?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Xie Meng nodded, then he added. ¡°No hurry.¡±


    When Sun Tian came looking for Ji Qinyang, the snowball fight was already over. Ji Qinyang was sorting out the photos in his phone with his head lowered, and Xie Meng¡¯s scarf was wound a few times round his neck and covered half his face.


    Actually, in terms of appearance, Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes were too exquisite. Before he grew into his current height, he could be described as androgynous looking.


    Sun Tian pouted and whined at her boyfriend, ¡°I want to take photos too.¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. His mouth was blocked by the scarf, and so his voice was muffled. ¡°There¡¯s no battery left, we¡¯ll do it next time.¡±


    Sun Tian complained, ¡°It might not snow the next time.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Isn¡¯t it the same if you use your phone?¡±


    Sun Tian was not very happy. ¡°Take a photo with your phone then you can use it as a background image. Don¡¯t couples always use each other¡¯s photos like this? How else to prove that we¡¯re a couple.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was noncommittal. He did not say anything, leaving Sun Tian to babble on but did not give her any response.


    ¡°Are you even listening to me?¡± Sun Tian was a little angry. ¡°I¡¯m talking to you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang removed his arm from the girl¡¯s shoulders. He stood in place, turned his head and looked at Sun Tian dispassionately.


    The latter stopped talking, and her face looked a little panicked and scared. She opened her mouth, as if to give in.


    ¡°You should head back first.¡± Ji Qinyang spoke, his voice flat and without any intonation. ¡°I still have something on, I won¡¯t accompany you.¡±


    After spending a long time selecting from the photos of the snowball fight, Zhang Ganggang finally found a satisfactory one and sent it to Rourou. He was too embarrassed to send his own photo, and so sent a photo of a snowy landscape, attaching a text description underneath it.


    ¡°Today, Xie Meng and I were in a snowball fight, and our class won it.¡±


    After sending the message, Zhang Ganggang felt a little nervous. As he was trying hard to suck the pearls in the milk tea, he finally received a reply from his goddess Rourou.


    ¡°How great, I don¡¯t even have time for snowball fights.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang started giggling again. Without a scarf, Xie Meng could only pull the collar of his coat up, and looked at Zhang Ganggang awkwardly.


    ¡°My goddess has replied to me.¡± Zhang Ganggang was cheerful. After picking up all the pearls, he handed Xie Meng the leftover milk tea. ¡°Drink some, warm yourself up.¡±


    Xie Meng sighed. Holding the cup in his hands, he watched Zhang Ganggang, with his head bowed, seriously typing his response.


    ¡°What do you think I should reply.¡± Zhang Ganggang asked. ¡°Should I ask her to have a snowball fight with me next time?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it. ¡°She¡¯s from S High, so she should be very busy with her studies. She might not have the time to do so.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang thought that he might be right, ¡°Then, I should tell her to pay attention to her health and don¡¯t tire herself out?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng actually also did not have any experience in coaxing a girlfriend.


    Zhang Ganggang was entirely a teenager who was engrossed in the troubles of love, drafting out a text for half a day before sending it out.


    Xie Meng¡¯s bus had already, and so he called out to Zhang Ganggang. ¡°You should head home quickly.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was still entering his text with his head lowered, and was reluctant to waste his time waving goodbye. Xie Meng shook his head, resigned, and got on to the bus.


    The snow began falling again.


    The speed of the bus was twice as slow as usual. Xie Meng watched the streetlights turned on, and under the lights, the snowflakes drifted gently to the ground. Shantang Street was much quieter than usual, and the store selling small wontons at the end of the bridge was also ready to pack up.


    As the snow got heavier, Xie Meng was soon covered in snow once he got off the bus. He lowered his head, and his eyelashes were coated with a thin layer of frost.


    People walked on the bridges while water flowed underneath, and the boats were all waiting by the concrete banks. The houses and shops by the river had already hung their lanterns up. As Xie Meng crossed the stone arch bridge, snow fell gently from the sky, and the lights along the river were all reflected in the water.


    Zhang Xiujuan was holding an umbrella. She was dressed in a Chinese jacket in the style of the Republic of China, and under her pleated skirt was a pair of embroidered cotton shoes.


    ¡°Grandma.¡± Xie Meng took the umbrella from her. ¡°Let me hold it.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan patted the snow away from his body,  removing her shawl and pulling it over her grandson¡¯s head. ¡°Such a rare occasion for it to snow so heavily, I also decided to come out and appreciate the scenery.¡±


    Xie Meng pulled down the shawl and covered his face. Snow was still sticking to his eyelashes, as though after melting, spring water could be seen in his eyes.


    Xie Meng wrapped his grandmother¡¯s shoulders with half the shawl. ¡°We¡¯ll be able to make a snowman in the yard tomorrow.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan laughed. ¡°I¡¯m already too old for that.¡±


    Xie Meng did not say a word, but he gently pressed his cheek against Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s white hair.


    The first reaction Mo Suyuan had after learning that Ji Qinyang had ordered a drum set was to change her son¡¯s music room to a bigger one.


    Ji Shanrong sighed, ¡°You spoil him too much.¡±


    Mo Suyuan did not feel that way, ¡°He normally doesn¡¯t care about much. It¡¯s good that he has a hobby. Don¡¯t I support your hobby as well?¡±


    Ji Shanrong was speechless. The Mo family had produced tea for generations, and were famous tea merchants in Jiang Nan. They had tea plantations in Dongshan, and their income each year was considerable. Mo Suyuan had inherited it from her family, and she accepted her own apprentices, never insisting that her son had to inherit this family business.


    ¡°At that time, to marry you, I could have given up on everything.¡± Mo Suyuan prepared the tea and passed it to Ji Shanrong. She was dressed in a cheongsam, her figure graceful, and there were almost no trace of the years that had passed on her face. ¡°Even the elders were able to accept it, why should we be so hard on the younger generations?¡±


    Ji Shanrong had interacted with stones for a lifetime, and naturally was unable to argue with his wife. He wrote himself a piece of calligraphy and hung it in his study, which summarized his life simply.


    ¡°Read thousands of books, travel thousands of miles, get a good wife, and a harmonious family.¡±


    Ji Shanrong drank his tea and sincerely praised his wife, ¡°You¡¯re my good wife.¡±


    Mo Suyuan laughed, ¡°You¡¯re also my good husband.¡±


    The day before the finals, Ji Qinyang was still hibernating in his music room, and did not look at his books. Mo Suyuan and Ji Shanrong had went to the mountains to spend some alone time together. Other than employing a part-time cleaner, they had left their son alone. Ji Qinyang was also accustomed to such freedom.


    Xie Meng¡¯s scarf had been folded and placed next to the drum set. Ji Qinyang rested his head in one hand, an earbud in one ear, and was drumming a rhythm on his thigh.


    His phone rang three times in a row, and on the fourth time, Ji Qinyang finally picked it up impatiently.


    ¡°Are you revising?¡± Qi Fei did not mind that Ji Qinyang did not answer his calls. He always boasted that he had an indomitable spirit. ¡°Want to come out and have a small campfire?¡±


    ¡°In reviewing?¡± Qi Fei didn¡¯t mind that Ji Chinyang did not answer his previous calls. He always boasted about his indomitable spirit: ¡°Come out and start a small cooker together?¡±


    Ji Qinyang flicked the cord of his earphones and asked casually, ¡°Who else would be there?¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°Just those people.¡±


    Ji Qinyang sneered, ¡°Sun Tian went to look for you.¡±


    Qi Fei was a little embarrassed. ¡°She only wants to get back with you¡­ Is there no chance at all?¡±


    ¡°She thinks I don¡¯t know about her finding someone to provoke Yin Luoxue?¡±


    Qi Fei was taken aback. ¡°I thought Yin Luoxue and you¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s two separate things.¡± Ji Qinyang interrupted him. ¡°I know clearly what Yin Luoxue wants, but at least she won¡¯t harm others. Tell Sun Tian, breaking up means breaking up, don¡¯t do such degrading things.¡±


    Qi Fei sighed, ¡°Fine, fine. Don¡¯t be angry. Let¡¯s go play basketball?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not answer.


    Qi Fei knew that there was no hope any more, so he could only tell him that he would see him in the examination hall tomorrow before hanging up.


    Ji Qinyang tossed his phone aside in annoyance, and it happened to fall on Xie Meng¡¯s scarf. He thought for a moment, and again picked it up.


    In his photo albums were all photos taken on that day the snow fell. Most of them were taken by Qi Fei, there were all kinds of ugly depictions of Class Five, inexplicable snowscapes, and even many of them were blurry. There was also a shot of just half of Zhang Ganggang making a face, and also the backs of many people that he did not recognise. While looking through them, Ji Qinyang started deleting them, and finally he saw the photo of him and Xie Meng.


    Ji Qinyang had asked Xie Meng, ¡°Let¡¯s take a photo together?¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him and gave a nod, ¡°Sure.¡±


    They stood very close, their heads almost leaning against each other. On Ji Qinyang¡¯s neck was Xie Meng¡¯s scarf, and Xie Meng was looking at the lens expressionlessly. Behind them was a background where the sky was indistinguishable from the snow.


    The youths were bright, and the times were right.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    There were not many differences in the rankings between the finals and the midterms. Zhang Ganggang had however improved a lot, and squeezed into the top ten.


    ¡°Finally I have something to show my parents¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang was so emotional that he was about to cry. ¡°I¡¯m always afraid that if my grades are too bad, my red packet money would be gone.¡±


    Xie Meng put his papers away and asked casually. ¡°Why do you need so much red packet money?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang thought about it carefully. ¡°First, I want to treat you to a meal.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Then, I want to buy a present for Rourou.¡±


    Xie Meng did a double-take. ¡°What are you buying?¡±


    ¡°A present.¡± Zhang Ganggang counted on his fingers. ¡°Valentine¡¯s Day is approaching.¡±


    ¡°¡­ What do you plan on buying?¡±


    ¡°That lavender bear seems to be very popular now.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng was speechless. ¡°Don¡¯t buy things at random. What if bugs grow on it.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang murmured, ¡°Will bugs grow on it?¡±


    He asked Xie Meng, ¡°Can you go with me to buy it?¡±


    Looking at Zhang Ganggang¡¯s hopeful baby face, Xie Meng was really unable to refuse him¡­


    Even though it was now the winter break, Xie Meng¡¯s schedule did not change much. He woke up at 6am, prepared hot milk, trained, remained on guard against Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s sneak attacks, and practiced his skills against her for half an hour.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go out for lunch this afternoon. I¡¯ve already prepared your meal.¡± Xie Meng said as he pushed Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s incoming palm away.


    Zhang Xiujuan reached out and brushed past Xie Meng¡¯s chin, ¡°Yo, going on a date?¡±


    Xie Meng turned his head and dodged. ¡°It¡¯s a boy.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan returned to the cool down position and smiled, ¡°It¡¯s rare that it¡¯s a boy too. You¡¯ve never brought any of your friends home before.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯ll be chances in the future.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan did not believe him. ¡°You said that in middle school too, but in the end there wasn¡¯t even one.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s different now.¡±


    ¡°Which is better?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it. ¡°It¡¯s better now.¡± After a pause, he added, ¡°I¡¯ve met a lot of people, and I¡¯m very happy.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang said that he wanted to treat him to a meal, and he did acted like a host. However, due to his baby face, round like a ball, the waiter in the end still handed the bill over to Xie Meng.


    ¡°I¡¯m footing the bill! I¡¯m footing the bill!¡± Zhang Ganggang was anxious, and tossed his red packet on the counter. ¡°Take it yourself!¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    The waiter, ¡°¡­¡±


    In the end, despite eating all they could, the total sum of the bill was only around 200yuan. As Zhang Ganggang¡¯s red packet was too ostentatious, Xie Meng decided to go buy a wallet first.


    ¡°How much red packet money did you get?¡± Zhang Ganggang covertly asked Xie Meng.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have many relatives.¡± Xie Meng was picking a color for the wallet. He took a light brown one and asked, ¡°What do you think about this one?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang threw a casual glance at it, ¡°It¡¯s nice¡­ But your grandpa and grandma should still give you red packets right?¡±


    Xie Meng said, ¡°I¡¯m staying with my grandmother, and my parents have passed away already.¡±


    He asked the salesman to remove the tag, indicating that he did not need a bag, and turned around to see Zhang Ganggang with an expression of wanting to die on his face.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng could neither laugh nor cry. ¡°What are you thinking about? They haven¡¯t been around since I was in elementary school. It¡¯s fine telling you about it.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang wished that he could carve the words ¡°I¡¯m a sinner¡± on his face. He spat a couple of times, ¡°It¡¯s the lunar new year, let¡¯s not talk about this. Instead, we should think about happier things.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed, ¡°I¡¯m very happy. You¡¯ve invited me out, and treated me to a meal. All these make me very happy.¡±


    He looked at Zhang Ganggang with a smile, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    As for Rourou¡¯s present, two people with no experience in dating made a very old-fashioned choice, selecting a plush teddy bear. As it was too big, Zhang Ganggang could only carry it on his back.


    ¡°How are you going to give it to her?¡± Xie Meng could not help asking.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send it to her through delivery. If I send it directly to her school, it¡¯ll cause Rourou trouble.¡±


    ¡°¡­ How virtuous of you.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang did not mind that others called him virtuous. His family was of the situation where the males would take care of the family while the females took care of outside matters. For a man to be described as being virtuous did not have a derogatory meaning for him.


    After buying the bear, they went window shopping. Zhang Ganggang wanted to eat ice cream, and Xie Meng bought it for him. They took turns carrying the bear, and in the end, they no longer had the strength to continue carrying it.


    ¡°I can¡¯t take it anymore¡­ I¡¯m about to collapse¡­¡± In the cold winter day, Zhang Ganggang was actually drenched in sweat. He decided to first carry the bear back home. ¡°Want to have dinner at my house tonight? My mother has been asking after you.¡±


    ¡°Not today, maybe next time. You can come over to my place too.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang naturally had no objection to it. Comically, he carried the bear on his back and boarded the bus, then waved at Xie Meng through the window.


    ¡°Be careful with that.¡± Xie Meng pointed at his bear. ¡°That¡¯s a present.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Zhang Ganggang replied him laughingly.


    The sun set early in winter. After seeing Zhang Ganggang off, Xie Meng was not in a hurry to return home. Pulling the hood of his down jacket over his head, he continued down the street.


    With the lights and lanterns, the feeling of the lunar new year had yet to fade away. Tail lights of cars left neon trails through the night. Xie Meng crossed the road, and the streets and lanes were still scattered with scraps of red paper left by firecrackers. The cultural market would open after the fifth day of the lunar new year, and many students were preparing for their classes in the upcoming semester.


    Xie Meng looked at a bookshelf, about to bend down and look through them, then someone reached and touched the back of his head.


    That person lowered his head and called out Xie Meng¡¯s name uncertainly.


    Xie Meng looked up, somewhat surprised. ¡°Han Dong?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you in awhile.¡± Han Dong nodded his head in greeting. ¡°How have you been?¡±


    Xie Meng spread his hands apart, giving a small smile, ¡°Not too bad.¡±


    Han Dong observed him carefully.


    ¡°Happy New Year.¡± He finally said.


    The cultural market was situated very close to S High. There were many cafes around the area where students could study. In front of Ji Qinyang was a foam-topped latte, sitting there in boredom, he was waiting for Ji Moli to pick a cake.


    ¡°I want both¡­¡± Ji Moli scrunched up her face aggrievedly. ¡°Let¡¯s buy both.¡±


    Ji Qinyang glanced at her. ¡°You¡¯ve already put on 3kg over the new year, you don¡¯t think that¡¯s enough?¡±


    Ji Moli returned to her seat rolling her eyes. She had been studying in S High for half a semester already. Her grades were not much, but she was very familiar with the cafes in the area. With the excuse of buying books, she made her cousin Ji Qinyang accompany her here for snacks.


    The bell at the entrance of the cafe chimed. Unconsciously, Ji Moli looked up, and immediately hunched over when she saw who it was.


    ¡°?¡± Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Shh!¡± Ji Moli hushed him nervously. ¡°I saw Han Dong!¡±


    She spoke in a cautious tone, ¡°He¡¯s a big shot in our international class. He¡¯s both good looking and has excellent grades, and is my new boyfriend.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was bewildered. ¡°¡­ Why are you hiding from your boyfriend?¡±


    Ji Moli said solemnly, ¡°I gave him the label of my boyfriend by myself. He doesn¡¯t know about it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Moli peeped over again, ¡°Oh, he¡¯s out with a boy¡­ Hey, that guy looks very familiar?¡±


    Before Ji Qinyang could turn around, Ji Moli suddenly said, ¡°Ah! I¡¯ve seen him on the BBS of the middle school! He¡¯s called¡­ Xie, Xie Meng?¡±


    Han Dong paid for his coffee. He asked Xie Meng, ¡°What would you like to drink?¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at the menu, ¡°Milk is fine.¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t changed.¡± Han Dong paid for it. ¡°You always drink milk every time you come here.¡±


    Xie Meng was noncommittal. He chose a seat by the window, and a bunch of plants behind him blocked him from view.


    Han Dong gestured, ¡°Let me show you something.¡±


    He pulled out his phone, scrolled through his photos, and pushed it in front of Xie Meng.


    It happened to be the chat record of Zhang Ganggang¡¯s ¡°lip battle¡± on S High¡¯s group chat.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng frowned. ¡°Did you all bullied him?¡±


    Han Dong laughed, ¡°That¡¯s not the point.¡±


    He tapped at his screen. ¡°These few people are from S Middle School, to be able to keep dragging this matter out, they¡¯re also quite capable. Although that old post has already been locked, but it was not deleted. Even though it¡¯s now deep within the records, but there are still clicks. You know what that means.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. He drank a mouth of milk, then said after a while, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter anymore, I¡¯m now in W High anyway.¡±


    Han Dong looked at him. ¡°Lin Hengjing has been discharged from the hospital already. The school is now looking into this. If he doesn¡¯t want his teaching qualification certificate to be revoked, he would definitely insist that you were the one forcing him.¡±


    Han Dong sighed, ¡°You were too impulsive. Those photos were taken at too good an angle already, and the one beaten up has now become the victim.¡±


    The loading of the school¡¯s BBS was not very fast. Ji Qinyang logged in with Ji Moli¡¯s account, and after going through many pages he finally found the locked post, and the title was ¡°Breaking News¡±.


    There were three photos in the first post. From the angle, they were taken secretly, and looking at the images, it seemed as though Xie Meng was pushing someone against the wall and forcefully kissing them.


    ¡°Wow.¡± Ji Moli covered her mouth. ¡°This is our laboratory building¡­ How exciting.¡±


    Ji Qinyang squinted. He studied it carefully, then said, ¡°This is a screenshot. It should be a video, the person who created this post had only captured a few shots.¡±


    Ji Moli blinked. ¡°You mean¡­?¡±


    Ji Qinyang wagged his finger, and put it lightly on his lips.


    The milk in front of Xie Meng had cooled down already. Expressionlessly, he looked outside the window, and it felt like his face had frosted over. The glass window had fogged up, the sky was turning dark, but the lights in the night were not bright.


    ¡°I found the person who took the photos, and naturally, Lin Hengjing would be able to do so as well.¡± Han Dong motioned to the waiter to bring the namecard of the cafe and a pen. ¡°He¡¯s called Zhuo Xiaoyuan. Coincidentally, he has also been admitted to W High. I don¡¯t know if he¡¯s ever looked for you, but the evidence is in his hand. Lin Hengjing would definitely try to find him.¡±


    Xie Meng watched at Han Dong wrote down Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s information and class. He hesitated for a moment, and finally still accepted that card.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Xie Meng said sincerely.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always believed in you.¡±


    Xie Meng gave a nod. ¡°I know. The Academic Affairs Department did not expel me¡­ It¡¯s because you spoke for me.¡±


    ¡°As classmates, it¡¯s something I should do.¡± Han Dong stood up and patted Xie Meng on his shoulder. ¡°Let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll send you back.¡±


    Qi Fei¡¯s family did not have much, but it had many members. Each lunar new year, even by the eighth day, their dinner parties were still not over. When he received Ji Qinyang¡¯s call, he was carrying a girl belonging to one of his aunts, and that girl just happened to pee on his leg.


    ¡°Hey hey!¡± Qi Fei carried the girl in one arm while answering the phone with another. ¡°Who is this?!¡±


    Amusement could be heard in Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice. ¡°What happened? You¡¯ve been trapped by your aunts again?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Qi Fei sighed. ¡°Are you here to save me?¡±


    ¡°My spirit is willing but my body is weak.¡±


    Qi Fei was exasperated, ¡°Then why are you calling me¡­¡±


    ¡°I do have something.¡± Ji Qinyang lowered his voice and spoke in a rare, serious tone. ¡°Do you know Zhuo Xiaoyuan?¡±


    Qi Fei thought about it. ¡°He sounds familiar¡­ I think he¡¯s from Class 6?¡±


    ¡°Who is he close with?¡±


    ¡°How would I know this¡­¡± Qi Fei was puzzled. ¡°Why are you suddenly concerned about others?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not answer. Thinking through it, he suddenly said, ¡°Alright, I have an idea. I¡¯ll hang up first.¡±


    ¡°Eh eh¡­¡± Before Qi Fei could ask him anything, Ji Qinyang had cut off the call.


    The little girl on his thigh widened her eyes. Sucking on her fingers she stared at her brother, ¡°Gege 1how kids usually refer to their older brother in Chinese.[/eten_note]¡­ Carry me!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Qi Fei screamed. ¡°You little scamp! Don¡¯t wipe your saliva on my arm!¡±


    This was not the first time Xie Meng rode in Han Dong¡¯s car. His driver also recognised him, and Han Dong motioned him to go in first.


    ¡°How come this doesn¡¯t seem like the car I remembered?¡± Xie Meng looked at the trunk. ¡°When did you change it?¡±


    Han Dong replied indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s a New Year gift. I¡¯m just driving it around.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng changed the topic. ¡°Right, do you know a girl called Rourou?¡±


    Han Dong was taken aback, his expression changing subtly. ¡°Why are you asking this?¡±


    Xie Meng explained. ¡°It¡¯s Zhang Ganggang, the one who had argued in your group chat. He¡¯s very close to that Rourou girl. I don¡¯t know if you know her. How is she as a person?¡±


    Han Dong said without any hesitation. ¡°Of course she¡¯s a nice person, she¡¯s very nice.¡±


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng looked at him suspiciously. ¡°You¡¯re very close to her?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re quite close.¡± He thought about it, then started listing it out. ¡°Her family background is good, her studies are good, her looks are also good. There¡¯s not even a need to mention her character, she respects her elders and cares for her classmates.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I didn¡¯t want to know so much.¡±


    ¡°You can tell all that to your friend.¡±


    Xie Meng thought that that made sense.


    ¡°What about him?¡± Han Dong suddenly ask. ¡°How about that friend of yours?¡±


    ¡°Zhang Ganggang?¡± Xie Meng replied earnestly. ¡°Of course he¡¯s very nice. He¡¯s very cute, and very lively and generous. He also studies hard.¡±


    ¡°Do you have any photos? Let me take a look.¡±


    Xie Meng showed him the photo he took with Zhang Ganggang in his phone.


    Han Dong looked at it for a while then frowned, somewhat dissatisfied. ¡°Don¡¯t you have a photo that¡¯s just him alone? Send it to me.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Han Dong¡¯s car could only send him to the entrance of Shan Tang street. Xie Meng got out of the car and waved goodbye at Han Dong through the window.


    ¡°If there¡¯s any trouble, let me know.¡± Han Dong looked at him. ¡°I¡¯ll help wherever I can.¡±


    Xie Meng stooped down and nodded. ¡°I know, thank you.¡±


    Han Dong waved his hand. He instructed the driver to turn around, and mouthed ¡°goodbye¡± at Xie Meng.


    The celebratory festival in Shan Tang Street had yet to be over. The noisy hawkers bustled around, and it was difficult for Han Dong¡¯s car to make its way through, his brake lights flashing in the midst of the endless neon lights.


    The dragon dance group blocked Xie Meng¡¯s view. He slowly walked up the arch bridge, and the granny by the bridge who recognised him gave him a stick of cotton candy that she had just prepared. ¡°Son, Happy New Year.¡±


    ¡°Happy New Year.¡± Xie Meng smiled.


    As he sat by the pier, he could see the boats drifting along the river. The boatman sang his song, and with a stroke of his oar he broke the reflection of the lights on the water. The string of lights winded along the riverside, and lit up the walls and pavilions along the bank.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    There was nothing much to do on the first day of the new semester. After collecting their books and cleaning up their classrooms, the students gathered in small groups and started chatting.


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s bear had been delivered a day ago, and Rourou even took a photo and sent it to him. In the photo was only a gigantic plush teddy bear sleeping in a bed.


    ¡°Now, I hug the bear every night to sleep, just like I¡¯m hugging you.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s ears turned red with agitation. He secretly showed Xie Meng the content of the message, and vowed solemnly that this was ¡°true love¡±.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng was curious. ¡°So how did you respond to her?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was a little embarrassed. ¡°I sent her my photo.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Then did she send you her photo?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Zhang Ganggang said naively. ¡°But she took a photo of the bear and sent it to me, and they even slept together.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Listening by the side, Qi Fei finally could not endure it anymore. He scoffed, ¡°Please, she¡¯s sleeping with the bear, are you a bear?! Also, that bear was purchased by you¡­ Why do you still want a photo of the bear?¡±


    With his mouth open blankly, Zhang Ganggang was unable to respond.


    Xie Meng inhaled deeply. Clasping Zhang Ganggang¡¯s shoulder, he gravely said, ¡°No matter what, you shouldn¡¯t casually give your photos to strangers. You¡¯ve never even met before, you should at least get a photo of them for confirmation.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang slowly nodded his head. Xie Meng ruffled his hair, and did not know if he was listening to what he said.


    Maitreya had let them out of school early, and Xie Meng refused Zhang Ganggang¡¯s invitation to walk home together. He waited outside the door of Class Six, and the door to the classroom finally opened after about ten minutes.


    ¡°Hello.¡± Xie Meng stopped a girl who was the first to step out. ¡°May I ask, which one is Zhuo Xiaoyuan?¡±


    The girl studied him, then smiled and shouted into the classroom. ¡°Zhuo Xiaoyuan! Someone¡¯s looking for you!¡±


    A boy sitting in the last row turned his head, and when he saw Xie Meng, his eyes narrowed.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan slowly stood up. He was very tall, and his hair was coarse and in a crew cut. His eyes were narrow, and was very handsome.


    He walked up to Xie Meng and placed a hand against the door frame, looking down at him, ¡°Why are you looking for me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m called Xie Meng¡­¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s expression was aloof. Someone behind him called out to him, and he turned to answer, ¡°Coming.¡±


    Xie Meng hesitated for a moment. ¡°I came looking for you, because I want¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan interrupted him suddenly. ¡°I have to go play basketball. If there¡¯s anything, we¡¯ll talk about it tomorrow.¡±


    Xie Meng frowned. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Both our classes happen to be having our physical education session tomorrow, come and look for me then?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng looked at him. He thought about it, and finally compromised. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not say anything else. He stared at Xie Meng¡¯s face, then suddenly reached out to pinch his arm. Unconsciously, Xie Meng blocked him, shoving a palm at him only for Zhuo Xiaoyuan to dodge it.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Why are you so nervous?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan snorted. ¡°What do you think I was going to do to you?¡±


    When Qi Fei arrived at the court, Ji Qinyang had already been playing for quite some time. A few boys from Class Six were watching from the sidelines, and the tallest one seemed a little familiar to Qi Fei.


    Ji Qinyang was playing 3v3 on a half-court, and it looked like he had won.


    ¡°Why are you going all out today?¡± Qi Fei walked to the court as he looked at Ji Qinyang. It was a rare occasion that the boy did not have a smile on his face. His brows were tight, and his expression cold.


    Ji Qinyang did not reply him, but raised his chin towards the boys of Class Six. ¡°Which one is Zhuo Xiaoyuan?¡±


    ¡°It should be that tallest one¡­ What do you want to do?¡±


    Holding a bottle of water, Ji Qinyang walked in the direction of that group of boys. His height was comparable to Zhuo Xiaoyuan, and standing in front of them, he was very intimidating.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan unconsciously straightened up.


    Ji Qinyang looked at him and smiled lazily. ¡°Let¡¯s have a match together?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan had his hands facing Ji Qinyang in a half-crouch and was defending against him. At first, he had only thought that the boy only had an excessively pretty face, but after getting attacked a few times in a row, he realised that some things really could not be judged by their covers.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already scored three times.¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s breathing remained steady, and a smile hung around the corner of his lips. ¡°Shall we have a bet?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not reply. The back of his jersey was soaked, and his eyes were fixed on the basketball in Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand.


    Ji Qinyang dribbled the ball between his hands for a while, and suddenly said. ¡°5-0, then you¡¯ll give me that video of Xie Meng.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked up in astonishment. With a great force through his shoulder, Ji Qinyang broke through the defense. Jumping up, he slammed the ball into the basket. Letting go for that swaying basket, he landed in front of Zhuo Xiaoyuan on one foot, ¡°It¡¯s now 4-0.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan narrowed his eyes slightly. ¡°Why do you know about Xie Meng¡¯s incident?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not for you to worry about,¡± Ji Qinyang said lazily. ¡°Just give me that thing.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan sneered. ¡°Who knows what you¡¯re going to do with it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang chuckled. He leaned forward, his face almost against Zhuo Xiaoyuan, and coldly said, ¡°Then, keeping it, what do you plan on doing with it? Blackmail? Threaten him with it? Since you didn¡¯t use it to clear Xie Meng¡¯s name, how are you any different from that scum?¡±


    Qi Fei was wondering how the two players ended up so close together while playing basketball. A second later, he saw Zhuo Xiaoyuan grabbed Ji Qinyang¡¯s collar and threw a fist. However, Ji Qinyang was not a person who would sit back and let this happen. Before anyone from either side could react, his fist had already landed in Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s face.


    ¡°Speak nicely! There¡¯s no need to fight!¡± Qi Fei ran up and caught Ji Qinyang¡¯s waist. ¡°Why are you going crazy again?¡±


    Ji Qinyang was still struggling. Zhuo Xiaoyuan had already taken a few steps back while covering his face. He was obviously angry, and yelled at Ji Qinyang with bloodshot eyes, ¡°As if you know anything?! Were you from the same middle school as Xie Meng?! You think you can fight this on his behalf?! You know nothing!!¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s lips thinned. He broke out from Qi Fei¡¯s hold, and stared at Zhuo Xiaoyuan frostily. ¡°I¡¯m still better than you. At least I didn¡¯t release the photos randomly and refused to clarify it later. If not for you, would he even be in this situation?!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s eyes flashed. He opened his mouth as if to explain, clenching his fists over and over again, but giving up in the end.


    As more and more students gathered around them, Qi Fei reminded him, ¡°Boss Ji¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes swept through the crowd. He did not want to expose Xie Meng¡¯s incident, so he reached out and grabbed Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s collar, pulling him to one side. Leaning into his ear, he gritted, ¡°I give you three days to hand that thing to me. If anything negative about Xie Meng is spread, you¡¯ll be the first one that I¡¯ll come after.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan responded coldly. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I wanted to say to you. You better take care of yourself.¡±


    Ji Qinyang could not be bothered to continue the conversation. He boorishly gave Zhuo Xiaoyuan a middle finger, then left the court and pulled on his coat. While buttoning up his coat, he then realised that his punch had been too vicious, and his knuckles were now swollen.


    Qi Fei was still nagging, ¡°Boss, why are you so irritable today¡­ What happened exactly?¡±


    Ji Qinyang was fed up. ¡°Don¡¯t ask.¡±


    Qi Fei had no choice but to shut his mouth. As they walked through the corridor in front of the classroom building, Qi Fei followed behind Ji Qinyang. When Ji Qinyang abruptly stopped, Qi Fei nearly crashed into his back.


    ¡°Why did you suddenly¡­¡± Before he could finish his complaint, Qi Fei saw Cie Meng slowly approaching from the other end of the corridor.


    The boy had his head bowed, looking like he was in a daze, and his black coat made him look even thinner. Only when he drew closer to them did he look up, and he was a little startled when he saw Ji Qinyang, his eyes widening slightly.


    ¡°Ji Qinyang?¡± Xie Meng called his name.


    ¡°Hi.¡± Ji Qinyang greeted him in a natural manner. ¡°You¡¯re not going home yet?¡±


    Xie Meng paused, then smiled.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it the same for you?¡± He laughed.


    Ji Qinyang just looked at his smiling face, and did not speak. Maybe because his stare was too direct, Xie Meng stopped smiling after a while. He suspiciously touched his own cheeks and asked with slight embarrassment. ¡°Is there something on my face?¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked away. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Xie Meng was bewildered. He stood in place for a few moments, before asking uncertainly, ¡°Well, then I¡¯ll head back first?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly said. ¡°Qi Fei has some school work that he¡¯ll like to ask you about.¡±


    ¡°???¡± Qi Fei looked completely confused¡­


    Xie Meng smiled again, looking somewhat resigned.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go.¡±


    All three persons were not heading in the same direction. Qi Fei pretended to ask a few questions, and when his bus arrived, he ran away faster than anyone else, leaving only Ji Qinyang standing next to Xie Meng with his hands in his pockets, waiting for the bus with him.


    As the bus gradually came to a stop, it could be seen that it was very crowded inside. Xie Meng followed the crowd up the bus, and he was squeezed to the side of the door. Ji Qinyang followed behind him, and circled him with his arms against the wall of the bus.


    People behind were still pushing, and Ji Qinyang tried his best to create a circle of space. An old man with a child squeezed over, and the bus happened to move. Reaching out, Xie Meng curled his arm around Ji Qinyang¡¯s waist and they faced each other closely.


    The old man steadied himself, then smiled at Xie Meng. He tugged at the child¡¯s hand, ¡°Nan Nan, say thanks.¡±


    The child shyly hid behind the adult, and when he noticed that Xie Meng was looking at him, he buried his face down again.


    Xie Meng said, ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± He pulled himself close to Ji Qinyang¡¯s neck. ¡°There¡¯s a little too many people, please bear with it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang adjusted his standing posture. He had one hand against the bus, another hand holding the rail, forming a triangle. He was very close to Xie Meng, and just by looking down, he could see his forehead.


    Xie Meng¡¯s arm was still around his waist, simply to steady Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°I forgot to bring the scarf.¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes fell on Xie Meng¡¯s clean and fair neck.


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng only understood after a moment and smiled, ¡°That thing¡­ It¡¯s fine.¡±


    The two of them swayed along with the bus, and more and more people crowded around them. Xie Meng leaned closer against the wall, and told Ji Qinyang, ¡°Come in closer.¡±


    Ji Qinyang hesitated, then circled Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders with his arm.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang explained indifferently. ¡°There¡¯s more space like this, and it¡¯s more stable as well.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at the empty spot behind the boy that was occupied immediately, and then said nothing.


    Shantang Street was the final stop, and most people got off there. There was nothing strange about them holding their hugging positions all the way to the end of the route. The spring cold in the evening of May was severe, along the long streets and narrow lanes, it was crowded and noisy.


    ¡°Where do you stay?¡± Ji Qinyang asked casually.


    Xie Meng pointed, ¡°That innermost lane of Shantang Street.¡±


    He asked Ji Qinyang, ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t live here, I¡¯m here to see my grandfather.¡±


    This was not false. Mo Zhaohe really did live near Shantang Street, and Mo Suyuan would occasionally leave the shop to visit him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll walk with you to the entrance of the lane.¡± Ji Qinyang raised his chin. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    When Mo Suyuan received her son¡¯s phone call, she had just left the tearoom. Surprised, she asked, ¡°You¡¯re at your grandpa¡¯s place? Why did you think of going there?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t go in, and just walked around Shantang Street.¡± Ji Qinyang spoke lazily as he sat by the bridge. He was waiting by a fried stinky-tofu hawker, and pulled his phone slightly away and instructed, ¡°Add a little chili and some coriander¡­ Yes. How much is it?¡±


    Mo Suyuan laughed. ¡°Just wait there, I¡¯ll come and pick you up.¡±


    Ji Qinyang hung up his phone, holding a plastic bowl as he sat alone by the pier. Under his feet were ripples of green. A boat drifted closer, and at the tail end of the boat was a cormorant. Under the setting sun, it squinted and flapped its wings. The boatman tossed a fish at it, and the long and heavy oar knocked gently against the side of the boat. The cormorant stretched its long and slender neck, then plunged into the water.


    The winter had yet to be over, but Sucheng was already blooming with spring.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    Xie Meng did not sleep well. When he woke up in the middle of the night, he had a slight headache. Climbing out of the bed to get some water, but he ended up alerting Zhang Xiujuan next door.


    The old lady was dressed in a grey linen robe, standing by the door wrapped in a large shawl, and frowning slightly. ¡°What time is it?¡¯


    ¡°It¡¯s around 3am.¡± Xie Meng felt a little guilty. ¡°You should sleep for a little longer.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan sighed and walked to the table. ¡°If you¡¯re unable to sleep, as an old woman, why should I be able to do so?¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. He boiled some water, prepared some soup, crouched down and passed it to Zhang Xiujuan. When he stood up, she grabbed his hand.


    ¡°What exactly happened?¡± Zhang Xiujuan studied her grandson¡¯s face, her heart aching. ¡°There was a period in middle school when you were like this too. Grandma refused to ask about it, but I was still very worried.¡±


    Xie Meng opened his mouth before closing it again. He smiled slightly and held Zhang Xiujun¡¯s hand. ¡°There¡¯s really nothing, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not come to school the next day. Xie Meng kept waiting til the physical education class ended, but he still did not see a shadow of him. With no other choice, he could only look for him again after school.


    ¡°Zhuo Xiaoyuan has applied for leave.¡± The class monitor of Class Six was a girl. ¡°He didn¡¯t say how long he was applying it for¡­ Why? Are you looking for him urgently?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng¡¯s face did not look very good. ¡°Do you have his address?¡±


    She said, ¡°The address book is with the teacher, do you want to look for her instead?¡±


    Xie Meng faltered. He went to the office, stood outside the door for a while and still gave up in the end. When he turned around to head downstairs, he bumped into Ji Qinyang who happened to be running up.


    When the other person saw him, he raised his brow. ¡°So you were here? I¡¯ve been looking for you.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°?¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Let¡¯s go back together.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­ You¡¯re going to your grandfather¡¯s place again?¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked momentarily confused, but soon registered his words. He acknowledged it, then added after thinking, ¡°My grandfather¡¯s cat has given birth, so I¡¯ll be going there to help him out for the next few days.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng cocked his brow. He rarely had such a teasing look on his face, and his eyes showed his amusement. ¡°Little kittens¡­?¡±


    Ji Qinyang replied earnestly, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed. Ji Qinyang looked at him, and suddenly reached out to brush his fringe.


    Xie Meng, ¡°?¡±


    ¡°There was something in it.¡± Ji Qinyang flicked his fingers, and he gave his customary insouciant pretty smile. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan never returned to school. Xie Meng¡¯s dazes got longer, and sometimes, dark eye circles could be seen on his face, showing his obvious lack of sleep the night before. He was originally thin, and now, when he dressed in a black shirt, he would give the impression that he was so thin he could fade away any moment.


    Ji Qinyang still went back with him every day after school, finding all sorts of excuses to accompany him.


    ¡°Did you cut your hair?¡± Ji Qinyang once asked without thinking. He had two arms around Xie Meng, and the both of them were standing together in the bus.


    The boy¡¯s hair was a little shorter, and it clung to his neck.


    ¡°I cut it myself.¡± Xie Meng was a little embarrassed. ¡°I wasn¡¯t concentrating¡­ It seems like I did a bad job?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled. ¡°No.¡± He placed his palm on Xie Meng¡¯s neck. ¡°It¡¯s not too bad.¡±


    The skin under his palm was very smooth. As it had been exposed to the elements, it was a little cool. Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand was very warm, and Xie Meng did not refuse this gesture that seemed almost like it was pinching his neck.


    Ji Qinyang tightened his fingers, acting as if nothing was going on. ¡°Your muscles are very stiff.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s probably because my head¡¯s been lowered for too long.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not say anything. Using his knuckles, he massaged the side of Xie Meng¡¯s neck, repeating the motion for three times before stopping. ¡°How does that feel?¡± He asked.


    Xie Meng did now know when he had closed his eyes. He sighed, ¡°It feels very comfortable. You know how to give a massage?¡±


    ¡°My mother is always preparing tea for tea ceremonies, and her shoulders often ache.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. ¡°That¡¯s nice.¡± It was not clear if he was referring to Ji Qinyang¡¯s massage techniques or something else.


    When they got down from the bus, they would go to Shantang Street for snacks. It was no longer clear who suggested it first, but it gradually became a habit. Xie Meng had finished half his bowl of beancurd before he realised Ji Qinyang was still adding chili to his bowl.


    The weather was starting to warm up. Halfway through eating, Ji Qinyang removed his coat, leaving himself in a long-sleeved shirt.


    Xie Meng was still wrapped in his coat. The rays of the evening¡¯s setting sun fell on his face, highlighting his handsome face, and drew attention to the area of his neck under his chin.


    Ji Qinyang stared for a long time before looking away. His fingers were heating up, and he placed his bowl on the table.


    Xie Meng looked at him strangely. ¡°You¡¯re done?¡±


    Ji Qinyan¡¯g skin was so pale it was almost translucent. As he had too much chili, his lips were red, and sweat dotted the tip of his nose. His dark brown hair curled naturally and was a little shaggy, curling around his ears.


    ¡°It¡¯s a little warm.¡± Ji Qinyang loosened his collar. Resting his head in his hand, he smiled at Xie Meng. ¡°Go ahead and finish yours.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng quickly finished up the last of the beancurd in his bowl.


    Ji Qinyang took out his phone to look at the time.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± He picked up both their school bags. ¡°I¡¯ll walk you to the junction.¡±


    Zhao Xiaoyuan¡¯s right leg was in a cast, and it was resting on the coffee table. With nothing to do, he was sitting in the living room and watching TV. His sister Zhuo Jinjin came running in with two ponytails on the side of her head, and marched back and forth in front of the television.


    ¡°Hurry up and say what you want to say.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan impatiently tossed a cushion at her. ¡°You¡¯ve just had an ice cream, what do you want now?¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin had just reached the age of ten. Because of certain physical issues, she did not have to go to school, and would stick to her older brother looking for snacks and fun. Zhuo Xiaoyuan was stuck at home recovering for so long, and out of the entire family, she alone was the happiest one.


    ¡°Someone came saying he¡¯s your classmate.¡± Zhuo Jinjin hung from Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s shoulder, gesticulating at the same time. ¡°It¡¯s a very pretty handsome older brother.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan could not stand her. ¡°If he¡¯s handsome, he¡¯s handsome. If he¡¯s pretty, he¡¯s pretty. Don¡¯t you know this?¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin pouted, coming down from Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s body reluctantly. She helped open the door for her brother, and Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s face instantly darkened upon seeing Ji Qinyang walk in.


    ¡°Why are you here.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan spoke coldly. His hair had grown a little longer, poking stiffly up.


    Ji Qinyang passed the fruits he had brought to Zhuo Jinjin. Bending over, he patted the little girl¡¯s head. ¡°Good girl, can you wash the strawberries yourself and eat them?¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin had absolutely no resistance to all good looking guys around her brother¡¯s age. She scooted into the kitchen, and no longer bothered about Zhuo Xiaoyuan.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to see if you¡¯ve grown any moss yet.¡± Ji Qinyang smiled lazily. He looked at Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s cast. ¡°Has it nearly recovered? If so, quickly return to school, don¡¯t add anymore trouble for others.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan frowned. ¡°Who did I add trouble for?¡± He snorted, ¡°I thought you don¡¯t want to see me around?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you, doesn¡¯t mean that others don¡¯t.¡± Ji Qinyang fished a pair of earphones out from his bag and slung it around his neck. ¡°Still carrying on despite not being able to win the fight, you really think you¡¯re a hero?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s face was ugly, but he did not take it lying down. He said stiffly, ¡°That scum is no much better. So what if he had more people? He still ended up in the hospital because of me.¡±


    Ji Qinyang scoffed. Zhuo Xiaoyuan glanced at him, and could not help asking, ¡°Did that scum harass Xie Meng again?¡±


    Ji Qinyang said lightly, ¡°There¡¯s me around.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think that this is because of you. Han Dong just doesn¡¯t want Xie Meng to get into trouble again. If they really start fighting, even with more people, it¡¯s nothing for Xie Meng.¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was too lazy to explain it to him. ¡°You¡¯ll understand it in the future.¡±


    Ji Qinyang narrowed his eyes. Looking pensive, he swung the cable of his earphones and said, ¡°You seem to know him quite well.¡±


    ¡°Xie Meng?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan gave him the side-eye. ¡°I definitely know more about him than you do. This matter has to do with our S Middle School, I don¡¯t know why are you sticking your oar in.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed scornfully. ¡°We¡¯re now in W High. He¡¯s from our Class Three. Please think about it, who¡¯s the actual outsider?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was angered. Blowing his breath out a few times, he still could not come up with a rebuttal.


    Ji Qinyang put his earphones on. He stood up, shoving his hands in his pockets. ¡°I see that your leg has pretty much recovered. Remember to come to school tomorrow. If I don¡¯t see you in the morning, don¡¯t blame me for coming here to drag you out.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng and Zhang Ganggang arrived at school at nearly the same time. Outside the door to Class Three, the two of them bumped into Zhuo Xiaoyuan who was already waiting there.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng¡¯s eyes fell on the cast on the other person¡¯s leg.


    ¡°That scum won¡¯t be able to teach anymore for his entire life,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan said dispassionately. ¡°If you want the details, you¡¯ll have to ask Han Dong. I¡¯m only in charge of passing the message.¡± He did not look at Xie Meng again, limping away with a crutch under his armpit. Just as he was about to head downstairs, Xie Meng shouted after him.


    ¡°Zhuo Xiaoyuan.¡±


    Turning his head around impatiently, ¡°What?!¡±


    A smile appeared on Xie Meng¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan glared at him, muttering, ¡°Crazy fellow!¡±


    Xie Meng smiled and waved, while Zhang Ganggang looked at the both of them, bewildered. ¡°What happened? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Xie Meng saw Ji Qinyang who happened to be coming upstairs. Around his neck was his earphone cable, and he raised his brow when he saw him.


    ¡°Morning,¡± Ji Qinyang greeted.


    ¡°Morning.¡± Xie Meng noticed his chest, and asked, ¡°What are you listening to?¡±


    ¡°Early.¡± Xie Meng noticed his chest and unconsciously asked, ¡°What are you listening to?¡±


    Ji Qinyang handed him one side of the earphones. ¡°Want to listen to it?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Before Xie Meng could react, the earbud was pushed into his ears. An unfamiliar silvery melody played in his ear, the tiny resonance trapping his attention like a spider web, and even his heart started trembling lightly.


    ¡°Does it sound nice?¡± Ji Qinyang leaned in very closely, looking down and studying Xie Meng¡¯s expression.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xie Meng nodded and said uncertainly, ¡°But I¡¯ve never heard it before¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s smile was a little proud. ¡°This is a song I wrote.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng blinked, his earbud already snatched away by Zhang Ganggang.


    Ji Qinyang just passed the MP3 player to them. ¡°Remember to return it to me.¡± He pointed at Xie Meng.


    Finally done with his classroom duty, Qi Fei walked out of the class. Seeing the MP3 in Zhang Ganggang¡¯s hand, he called out with a ¡°Yo.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d better record it down.¡± Qi Fei boasted. ¡°This would be a dark history in the future, a student work from China¡¯s top music producer.¡±


    Ji Qinyang kicked Qi Fei in the leg, and the latter exaggeratedly cried out in pain.


    Xie Meng and Zhang Ganggang followed behind them with a earbud each in their ear. Zhang Ganggang was dancing along with the music, and Xie Meng hurriedly grabbed the earphone cable that was about to be yanked away, shaking his head helplessly.


    The fine dust danced in the air, reflecting the morning sun shining through the window. The warm spring sun lit up the youths¡¯ fresh faces.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    When he received the call from Han Dong, Xie Meng¡¯s class was about to attend their physical education session. After informing Zhang GangGang, Xie Meng walked alone to the side of the field.


    ¡°Zhuo Xiaoyuan has returned to school?¡± Han Dong asked. ¡°Isn¡¯t he still recovering?¡±


    ¡°His cast has not been removed¡­ Why didn¡¯t you guys call me then?¡±


    Han Dong laughed, ¡°Why should we call you? You might end up killing someone. Isn¡¯t it good that someone¡¯s standing up for you instead?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s originally Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s fault anyway. If he hadn¡¯t believed the wrong person, you wouldn¡¯t have suffered so much.¡± Han Dong continued, ¡°At that time, his sister was sick, and so he could not report this matter to the school. In the end, that buddy of his started saying nonsense, and Lin Hengjing also used his authority and blocked Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s IP, and made it impossible for him to post it on the school¡¯s intranet.¡±


    Han Dong sighed, ¡°His sister¡¯s health has stabilized recently, that¡¯s why he has the time to deal with this matter, and he feels guilty towards you. Lin Hengjing found a group of people to threaten him, but got beaten up by him and sent to the hospital instead, and finally managed to vent this anger.¡±


    Xie Meng was silent for a moment, ¡°How¡¯s his sister?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a little harder to deal with.¡± Han Dong whispered, ¡°He knows, and is prepared. Ji Qinyang knows about this as well.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Ji Qinyang?¡± Xie Meng was surprised. ¡°What does this have to do with him?¡±


    This time, it was Han Dong who was startled. ¡°You weren¡¯t the one who told him about the middle school thing? Zhuo Xiaoyuan was worried that Lin Hengjing would go and harass you, so Ji Qinyang even accompanied you home. When he was being threatened, it was also Ji Qinyang who got a group of people to go and save him.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°Lin Hengjing has been dismissed today. Be on your guard these few days, I keep feeling that he won¡¯t give up so easily.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Xie Meng promised. ¡°Thank you, be careful yourself.¡±


    Han Dong snorted. ¡°He dares to do anything to me?¡±


    Xie Meng laughed, and they moved on to other matters. Han Dong suddenly asked, ¡°How is Zhang Ganggang recently?¡±


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng felt that this abrupt change in topic was too random. ¡°Why are you asking about him?¡±


    Han Dong had a pretty good reason for it. ¡°I¡¯m helping Rourou to ask after him.¡±


    Xie Meng was a little suspicious.


    ¡°Girls are shyer.¡± Han Dong said.


    Xie Meng thought that he made sense. ¡°What would you like to know?¡±


    ¡°What is he wearing today?¡±


    Xie Meng looked over at Zhang Ganggang. When the latter noticed him looking, he still foolishly raised his hand in a ¡®V¡¯ gesture.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng waved at him, and said into his phone, ¡°A school uniform.¡±


    ¡°Just a school uniform? So obedient?¡±


    Xie Meng could only say, ¡°School uniforms are more convenient.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Han Dong still did not give up. ¡°What did you guys do today?¡±


    ¡°Went to class, dismissed from class, lunch, returned to class.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Han Dong was a little angry. ¡°Can¡¯t you be more serious about your answer?¡±


    Xie Meng was helpless, ¡°What do you want to hear about then?¡±


    Han Dong thought about it, and mumbled, ¡°Then, tell me about what classes he attended, and what did he eat during lunch.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    After the basketball game, Ji Qinyang sat by the court and chatted with Qi Fei. A few girls surrounded the, and Wu Xiaomei was the first to notice Xie Meng.


    ¡°Xie Meng!¡± The girl extended her arm and waved at him.


    There were two bottles of sport drinks in Xie Meng¡¯s hands. When he drew closer he handed them to Qi Fei and Ji Qinyang. As he passed it to Ji Qinyang, he gave a small smile and said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not ask him what he was thanking him for. He twisted the cap open and drank some before smiling, ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡±


    Next to them, Qi Fei was confused. ¡°What charades are you playing this time?¡±


    Ji Qinyang drank from the bottle without a word. Xie Meng gave an excuse that he had to run with Zhang Ganggang, and left. Qi Fei pulled at his hair unhappily, ¡°How mean, why are you hiding things from your buddy.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s his private matters, I can¡¯t tell you about it.¡± Ji Qinyang stood up. He did some warm-up exercises, and looked down towards Qi Fei. ¡°Shall we play basketball tonight?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not going home with Xie Meng anymore?¡±


    Ji Qinyang paused, then smiled. He said lightly, ¡°There¡¯s no longer a need for that.¡±


    Nearly two months into the second half of the semester, the school finally started preparing for its sports meet. W High¡¯s sports meet did not only have track and field, but also included ball games like basketball, badminton, table-tennis as well as dodgeball. If not for the small student population, they could even organise a football competition¡­


    However, even though only five players were needed for basketball, some classes found it difficult to gather enough participants.


    Only Ji Qinyang, Qi Fei and a boy named Chen Dong often played basketball in Class Three. As they really could not find anyone else, Qi Fei had no choice but to drag Zhang Ganggang in.


    ¡°How, I only know how to dribble the ball!¡± Zhang Ganggang¡¯s attitude was very positive, but his actions were a little pessimistic. ¡°So little time left, how is that enough¡­¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°I¡¯ll teach you! Now, we just need one more¡­ We have to get enough players first!¡±


    Chen Dong suggested, ¡°There¡¯s only Xie Meng left who¡¯s considered taller in our class. Are any of you close to him?¡±


    The three of them looked simultaneously at Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang glanced at Zhang Ganggang and said lazily, ¡°As if you¡¯re not close to him?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s different! My relationship with Xie Meng is more complicated, I¡¯m indebted to him for giving me new life!¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­ What the hell, you¡¯re even talking about him giving you life?!¡±


    Ji Qinyang placed his index finger on his temple. He seemed to fall into a daze for a moment before laughing, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll ask him.¡±


    ¡°¡±Basketball?¡± Xie Meng was sorting out the garbage, and tied up each garbage bag one by one. He looked up, ¡°You want me to participate?¡±


    Ji Qinyang tossed the garbage bags to one side, ¡°There¡¯s not enough players. We¡¯ll only be able to register if you join us.¡±


    Xie Meng frowned slightly.


    Ji Qinyang looked at him, ¡°What other ball games did you sign up for?¡±


    ¡°Dodgeball.¡±


    ¡°Then just participate in one more for fun.¡±


    Xie Meng sighed, ¡°I¡¯m not very good at basketball¡­ At most, I only know some basics.¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°I can teach you.¡±


    Xie Meng was a little hesitant. Ji Qinyang continued, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, there¡¯s still Zhang Ganggang to make you look better.¡± When he said this, Xie Meng happened to be looking at his eyes. Maybe due to the lack of melanin, Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes were very light as well, and when he smiled at others, he seemed a little indifferent.


    ¡°So how?¡± Ji Qinyang smiled at him lazily. ¡°Let¡¯s have fun together, I¡¯ll teach you.¡±


    And so, muddleheaded, Xie Meng agreed. After the five of them registered, they realised that there were actually quite a lot of issues. There was less than one month to the sports meet, and they had to teach two rookies.


    Qi Fei called out first. ¡°Zhang Ganggang, I¡¯ll teach you. You better be serious, ok?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang bowed, his adrenaline pumping. ¡°Yes! Sir!¡±


    Chen Dong played the rear guard position, and had nothing much to teach. Hence, Xie Meng was naturally handed over to Ji Qinyang.


    As such, the four of them would be together every day after school, and they could often be seen playing 2v2 on the court. During the sessions, Qi Fei felt that Zhang Ganggang really had no basics, and decided to pull him aside to give him his full attention. To others, he called this their secret training, but actually, it was just to not let his disciple disgrace his master too much.


    In comparison, Xie Meng was a genius who progressed rapidly, with good resilience, great focus, and fast reactions. After teaching him for a few days, Ji Qinyang had nothing left to teach him. When the two of them played against each other alone, although he still lost more than he won, but Xie Meng could now score a few points from Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°Press your back into me, push against me, then turn and shoot.¡± Ji Qinyang demonstrated it for Xie Meng. ¡°Your turn.¡±


    Xie Meng accepted the ball. His back faced Ji Qinyang, dribbled the ball, and when he retreated, he used too much force, and fell into Ji Qinyang¡¯s embrace.


    Ji Qinyang steadied himself, his arms went around Xie Meng¡¯s waist, and held him in what looked like a hug.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng, ¡°Sorry.¡±


    Ji Qinyang leaned into Xie Meng¡¯s ear and laughed, ¡°It¡¯s fine. This would happen to all novices. Practise it a few more times and you¡¯ll know how to do it.¡±


    ¡­ In the end, there were many times when Xie Meng still could not control his strength, and again fell into Ji Qinyang¡¯s arms.¡±


    Xie Meng was a little embarrassed. ¡°Am I doing something wrong?¡±


    Ji Qinyang told him patiently, ¡° Your movements are correct, but don¡¯t feel rushed. Press close to me, and just push against me.¡±


    Xie Meng repeated it one more time. He followed the actions Ji Qinyang taught him, his back pushing closely against his chest. The warmth of the boy¡¯s chest could be felt through his shirt, and Xie Meng could even smell the scent of Ji Qinyang¡¯s sweat. Soaking in the warmth of the sun, even the air around them felt heated.


    Ji Qinyang looked down and saw that the ends of Xie Meng¡¯s hair were damp. With his two arms around the other person¡¯s sides, he leaned into the boy¡¯s neck and said quietly, ¡°Come in closer, look for an opportunity.¡±


    Xie Meng shrunk his neck subconsciously, and with a moment of distraction, the ball got stolen by Ji Qinyang.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang spinned the ball with one hand, raising his eyebrow with a smile, ¡°Focus.¡±


    Xie Meng wiped the sweat on his forehead, ¡°Let¡¯s continue.¡±


    Ji Qinyang tossed the ball back at him, and the two of them again began practicing dodging. It took five times before Xie Meng grabbed the opportunity to break through the other person¡¯s defense and shot the ball into the basket.


    ¡°Let¡¯s end here today.¡± Ji Qinyang took his phone out. Slanting his head to one side, he looked at Xie Meng, ¡°Rest for awhile before we leave?¡±


    They sat by the court. The evening wind of April will still chilly, and Xie Meng pulled on his jacket after sitting for a few moments. Out of habit, he tugged his sleeves over his hands.


    A few girls were standing by the court side, and they seemed to be looking over at them. Amongst them, Xie Meng saw Sun Tian.


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly tilted his head over. He squinted slightly, ¡°Is there a pretty girl?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Xie Meng felt a little awkward. He saw Sun Tian look in their direction.


    Ji Qinyang put one hand on Xie Meng¡¯s shoulder, looking back indifferently. At first, Sun Tian still stubbornly stared at him, but it did not take long before she bit her lip and turned away.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng hesitated. ¡°You¡¯re¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang again revealed that dispassionate smile of his, ¡°We broke up long ago.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s arm was still around him. ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng took a moment to understand, and smiled, ¡°I don¡¯t have a girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t plan on looking for one?¡±


    ¡°When would I have the time¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang apparently did not intend to let him off lightly. ¡°What type do you like?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Resigned, Xie Meng found that he could not avoid this topic, and could only answer, ¡°Obedient, sensible, adorable, black hair, big eyes¡­ Just these I guess.¡±


    Ji Qinyang regarded him thoughtfully, ¡°You don¡¯t like dyed hair?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about whether I like it or not,¡± Xie Meng thought about it. ¡°It depends on the person I think.¡± He swept his eyes towards Ji Qinyang¡¯s head. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang seemed to still be thinking of something else, and responded after a moment, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Nothing.¡± Xie Meng said. ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    With only a week to go before the sports meet, Zhang Ganggang finally managed to pass the ball when trapped on both sides, rather than falling to the ground as he rolled and hugged the ball. Qi Fei felt that he had really completed a long and arduous task, and he no longer seek for anything more than that¡­ Of course this was not the only improvement around.


    For some reason, before the games, Ji Qinyang dyed his hair black.


    When the boy appeared at the door of the classroom, he attracted most of the class¡¯s attention. Xie Meng looked up to see Ji Qinyang watching him.


    ¡°Morning.¡± Ji Qinyang removed his earbuds. He seemed to conditioned his hair, it was not as shaggy as before, and dyed as dark as ink.


    Xie Meng stared at him for quite some time. ¡°Morning¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled. His facial features were exquisite, and with his black hair, they looked even more prominent, looking as perfect as those male models on fashion magazines who had been photoshopped.


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­ Are you planning on going down the path of being an adonis?¡±


    Ji Qinyang was very curious. ¡°You mean, I¡¯m not one?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang thought about it, ¡°Well, you¡¯re the number one beauty in W High¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang was quite surprised. ¡°How come I didn¡¯t know about that?¡±


    Qi Feig clapped his hands. ¡°I remember it now! Last time, someone had post a ranking on the girls¡¯ channel of the school intranet.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang counted with his fingers. ¡°Ji Qinyang, Xie Meng, Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡­ We occupy 3 out of the top 5 ranks!¡±


    ¡°What we.¡± Qi Fei rolled his eyes. ¡°Zhuo Xiaoyuan is from Class 6.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°He knows Xie Meng. Xie Meng¡¯s friend is our friend!¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°That¡¯s pretty interesting.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at him. Ji Qinyang also happened to turn his head. Their eyes met for some time, and only looked away when Maitreya arrived.


    Qi Fei and Zhang Ganggang were still squabbling about Zhuo Xiaoyuan. Maitreya had to call out loudly to them to be silent a few times before they stopped.


    Maitreya tousled Ji Qinyang¡¯s hair. ¡°Yo, you¡¯ve finally dyed it back.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang tidied up his messed up hair impatiently.


    Maitreya chuckled, ¡°It looks very good now, an obedient pretty boy.¡±


    Xie Meng could not help laughing when he heard the words ¡°obedient pretty boy.¡± Ji Qinyang stared at his laughing face, widening his eyes to make an innocent expression.


    Xie Meng choked, and stopped laughing.


    Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei did not bother disguising their amusement. They laughed loudly non-stop.


    Maitreya could not longer tolerate the noise, and they only stopped after he began scolding them.


    As the next day was the sports meet, the students were all very inattentive in class. At the end of the school day, they even stayed back to practice their formation. The person holding the sign was changed to Ji Qinyang, and Qi Fei and Zhang Ganggang, standing by the side of the field, took turns to shout ¡°W High¡¯s No. 1 Beauty¡± and ¡°obedient pretty boy¡±¡­ Class Six was also lining up on the track. Zhuo Xiaoyuan, holding his class sign, collided head on with Ji Qinyang, and when they staggered apart, their fists even met for a bit.


    The two classes practised their formations, and Xie Meng nodded at Zhuo Xiaoyuan when he walked past him.


    As a result, Zhuo Xiaoyuan started shouting his class cheer. ¡°Class 6 Class 6 we¡¯re number one! Class 6 Class 6 we¡¯ll kick some buns!¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Qi Fei was about to die laughing. ¡°This cheer is too funny! Hahahaha!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°Hahahahahaha!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was angry. ¡°If yours is better, then shout yours!¡±


    Ji Qinyang supported the sign on his shoulder, and randomly said something. ¡°Friendship first, competition second.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°You¡¯re going to just shout this?¡±


    Ji Qinyang shrugged, ¡°As long as it¡¯s not as dumb as yours.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    After the formation training, a few people still had to stay back and train. Chen Dong wanted to have a friendly match with Class Six. Zhuo Xiaoyuan had brought Zhuo Jinjin along, and the little girl sat obediently by the court.


    ¡°Qinyang-gege!¡± Zhuo Jinjin¡¯s smile bloomed like a flower, and waved her arms.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan had a dirty look on his face. ¡°Why did you call at him.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin was very honest. ¡°Because he¡¯s better looking than you, gege.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang walked over. Behind him was Xie Meng, and when Zhuo Jinjin saw him her eyes were about to fall out.


    ¡°Hello, Jinjin.¡± Xie Meng crouched down, smiling as he patted the little girl¡¯s head.


    ¡°Ah ah ah!¡± Zhuo Jinjin shrieked as she hid behind Zhuo Xiaoyuan.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng froze, he was at a loss.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan clicked his tongue in displeasure.


    Ji Qinyang gave a smile with an indiscernible meaning. ¡°Her reaction wasn¡¯t even that big when she saw me for the first time.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin peeped out from behind her brother with a red face, speaking shyly, ¡°You¡¯re so handsome~¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan pressed his forehead into his palm. ¡°Ignore her. She¡¯s going boy-crazy.¡±


    Qi Fei had the most experience handling children. If he compared the 10 year old Zhuo Jinjin with those wild children of his relatives, she was basically a little angel. Zhuo Xiaoyuan watched as he turned coins into flowers to charm his sister, and could no longer bear it. With a dark face, he said, ¡°You should give up now. I won¡¯t let my sister marry you!¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin laughed and clapped her hands. ¡°I want to marry Xie Meng!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°You just told me the other day that you wanted to marry Ji Qinyang!¡±


    Qi Fei pretended to be heartbroken and held his hand to his chest. ¡°I¡¯m not good enough? I¡¯m also very handsome!¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin laughed joyfully. Qi Fei lifted her up and placed her around his neck, then motioned for Zhang Ganggang to bring the basketball over. ¡°Let¡¯s go shoot the ball into the basket.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin shot twice, and both missed. When Ji Qinyang took over and carried her, the little girl was a little shy.


    ¡°I¡¯m not strong enough.¡± Zhuo Jinjin grumbled.


    Ji Qinyang held her waist and stood under the basket. He looked up at Zhuo Jinjin, his gentle smile very pretty. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. Qi Fei is just too short.¡±


    Qi Fei immediately squatted down and acted pitiful. ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah¡­ I stretched so much that my neck is now sore.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin giggled. She took the ball from Xie Meng, and looked at the basket with a serious look on her face. This time, the ball landed in easily.


    Cheers rang out across the court. Ji Qinyang put Zhuo Jinjin down gently and hoked, ¡°The pre-show has ended. Little princess, would you like to watch by the side now?¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin looked at Xie Meng. ¡°Will you go on court as well?¡±


    Xie Meng smiled and nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin went over to hold Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s hand. She said confidently, ¡°Although I like you a lot, my older brother will definitely not lose.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not speak. He picked up his little sister, and the two of them hooked their little fingers together. Zhuo Jinjin clenched her fist, ¡°Gege, fighting!¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan promised, and pushed his cheek towards Zhuo Jinjin. ¡°Give ge a kiss.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin hugged him tightly and smacked her brother¡¯s cold, fierce, slanting eyes with her lips.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan grinned and laughed foolishly.


    The friendly match did not start off fiercely. Class 3 mainly wanted to practise their cooperation and teamwork. Zhang Ganggang¡¯s skills could at most not handicap them, and Chen Dong tried his best to just pass the ball to only Ji Qinyang and Qi Fei.


    Qi Fei like to charge into the restricted area by himself, but Ji Qinyang rarely did so.


    At the start, Xie Meng was unable to make an immediate decision when he caught Ji Qinyang¡¯s passes. However, his reactions started speeding up as he got used to it.


    ¡°Here!¡± On his right, Qi Fei signalled to him. Ji Qinyang glanced at him, and with the turn of his wrist, the ball was instead tossed to the left. Xie Meng swiftly threw off the two guards from Class Six on him, caught the ball and entered the restricted area with a turn. Ji Qinyang was already waiting under the basket. Zhuo Xiaoyuan wanted to intercept, and Xie Meng took a step back, positioning himself to take a shot at the basket.


    ¡°Get ready for the rebound!¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan shouted.


    The trajectory of the thrown ball was far, but it was not aimed directly at the basket. It was already too late when Zhuo Xiaoyuan caught on to Xie Meng¡¯s plan. Ji Qinyang leapt up, caught the ball in front of the basket, and dunked it in.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± Zhang Ganggang jumped onto Xie Meng¡¯s back with a shout of laughter.


    Ji Qinyang swept up his damp fringe, and held his hand out towards Xie Meng as he smiled.


    Xie Meng slapped his palm against his. Unexpectedly, Ji Qinyang caught his hand and pulled on it, and his other arm wrapped around Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders, tightly embracing him.


    ¡°Nice one.¡± Ji Qinyang pressed his palm against the back of Xie Meng¡¯s neck. He seemed to find it insufficient, and even hugged the boy around his waist with one arm and lifted him off the ground.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Fortunately, Ji Qinyang only hugged him for a while and released him. However, Zhang Ganggang was even more emotional than the both of them. He hugged them both, jumping and shouting, nearly bouncing around in a circle, and even Qi Fei could not drag him off.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get too excited. ¡° Zhuo Xiaoyuan shot them a challenging look. ¡°We¡¯ve only just begun!¡±


    The few of them bumped their fists against each other, and now the rivalry between two teams heated up. Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang¡¯s teamwork was seamless, and Zhang Ganggang gradually caught up with the rhythm as well. However, Class Six was no weakling. Zhuo Xiaoyuan 3-pointers were lethal, and Xie Meng¡¯s team of five was unable to defend against it. Both teams exhausted themselves on the court, and the match ended with Class Three trailing by two points.


    ¡°Yay¡ª!¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan ran off court and lifted Zhuo Jinjin onto his shoulders. The little girl smiled so hard that her eyes were closed.


    Xie Meng lay on the concrete ground, panting. A pair of sneakers appeared in his field of vision. Ji Qinyang held his hand out to him and smiled, ¡°Was it fun?¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. He was not in a hurry to get up. Holding hands with Ji Qinyang, and one was lying on the ground with the other crouching, but no one found it weird.


    ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve had fun like this.¡± Xie Meng suddenly said. He raised his chin and looked into Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes, smiling, ¡°It¡¯s really very interesting.¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. He looked down at Xie Meng¡¯s smile, as though pondering over what he just said, then responded after a while, ¡°Let¡¯s play together next time.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed for a long time, and the curve of his lips did not straight. Standing up with Ji Qinyang, he suddenly asked. ¡°Why did you dye your hair?¡±


    Ji Qinyang paused, then turned his head and looked at Xie Meng with a smile. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look good?¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡± Xie Meng stretched out his hand and tousled the hair at the back of Ji Qinyang¡¯s head vigorously.


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang rubbed his nose. The tips of his ears, hidden in his hair, were a little red.


    ¡°It looks good even without dyeing.¡± Xie Meng thought about it, and earnestly said, ¡°You¡¯re pretty no matter how you look.¡±


    Class Six had won the game, so naturally Zhuo Xiaoyuan had to give them a treat. A few boys headed out of the school gates to get some cold beverages. Ji Qinyang grabbed cornettos for himself and Xie Meng, and the two of them ate it in similar postures.


    Zhuo Jinjin, licking at her ice cream cone, tugged on Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s shirt. ¡°Gege¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan drew his face towards her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin leaned onto him, and pointed a finger asking him to look at the school gate.


    Ji Qinyang looked back, and the smile on his face cooled.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s brows pinched tightly. He picked Zhuo Jinjin up and handed her to Qi Fei, heading towards the school gate alone.


    Xie Meng, ¡°?¡±


    He wanted to turn around, but his shoulder was held on to by Ji Qinyang, and Ji Qinyang looped his arm around his head with some force.


    Lin Hengjing leaned against his car door, and Zhuo Xiaoyuan glared at him coldly. ¡°What do you want?!¡±


    In terms of appearance, Lin Hengjing was the type of man who looked soft-spoken, and could even be called elegant. His eyes turned to Xie Meng who had his back facing him in the distance.


    ¡°I just want to talk to him alone.¡± Lin Hengjing raised his hands. ¡°I won¡¯t do anything.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°He has nothing to say to you.¡±


    Lin Hengjing laughed, ¡°You¡¯re not him, how would you know?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not want to continue such nonsense with him, and asked him to fuck off. Lin Hengjing felt that he had no other choice, and suddenly shouted, ¡°Xie Meng!¡±


    ¡°¡­ You!¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan was about to fly into a rage. Lin Hengjing again shouted, ¡°Xie Meng!¡±


    Xie Meng finally turned his head. He looked towards them for a while, then slowly walked over.


    Ji Qinyang followed with an insouciant smile.


    Lin Hengjing studied Xie Meng with a friendly look on his face. ¡°It¡¯s been awhile.¡±


    Xie Meng gave a nod. ¡°Why are you looking for me.¡±


    Lin Hengjing saw Ji Qinyang put his hand on Xie Meng¡¯s shoulder, and his eyes were drawn to that hand for a few seconds before looking away.


    ¡°I just want to talk to you alone.¡± Lin Hengjing lowered his bearing. ¡°I don¡¯t even have a job now, I won¡¯t pose any threat to you.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan wanted to say something, but was held back by Ji Qinyang.


    Xie Meng thought about it and agreed, ¡°Fine.¡±


    Lin Hengjing leaned over and motioned to go to another side to talk. Ji Qinyang let Zhuo Xiaoyuan walk off first. He looked coldly at Lin Hengjing, then walked over to Xie Meng with his hands in his pockets.


    ¡°Call me if there¡¯s anything.¡± Ji Qinyang said.


    Xie Meng smiled, ¡°Sure¡­ There won¡¯t be anything though.¡±


    Ji Qinyang observed him, then reached out a hand around Xie Meng¡¯s neck and adjusted his collar at the back of his neck. Xie Meng was stunned for a few seconds, then cooperatively lowered his head.


    ¡°It was wrinkled.¡± Ji Qinyang smiled softly.


    Xie Meng laughed, ¡°Mn. Thank you.¡±


    Lin Hengjing waited for Ji Qinyang to be a distance away before he looked back. He carefully watched Xie Meng¡¯s expressionless face, and smiled wryly. ¡°You haven¡¯t smile like that at me in a very long time.¡±


    Xie Meng knitted his brows silently.


    Lin Hengjing muttered, ¡°You used to be so serious in my class, and even looked for me after class to ask me about the work¡­ You clearly have no interest in me, but still gave such a good looking smile. Has that boy also been attracted by you?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± Xie Meng said coldly. ¡°Ji Qinyang is different from you.¡±


    Lin Hengjing smiled strangely. ¡°How are we different? Because he¡¯s younger than me, better looking that me¡­¡±


    Xie Meng interrupted. ¡°If this is all you want to talk about, then we have nothing to say.¡± He turned around, about to walk off.


    Lin Hengjing grabbed his arm agitatedly. ¡°How do you know that he doesn¡¯t share the same thoughts as I do?¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Lin Hengjing spoke incoherently, ¡°You seduced me, and now you¡¯re seducing someone else¡­ It¡¯s all your fault¡­¡±


    Xie Meng fiercely shook off Lin Hengjing¡¯s hand that caught his. Raising his palm, he grabbed the other person¡¯s neck and slammed him onto the trunk of the car. Lin Hengjing was caught off-guard, and he screamed painfully as he banged his back against the bumper.


    Ji Qinyang ran over, but did not pull Xie Meng away. He only asked, ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    Xie Meng nooded. He looked down at Lin Hengjing¡¯s painful expression and said dispassionately, ¡°It¡¯s your business if you like pretty little boys. However, you shouldn¡¯t arrogantly force your feelings onto others. Other than your apology, I don¡¯t want to hear anything else from you.¡±


    Lin Hengjing was in so much pain that his tears flowed out. He whimpered as he kept apologising, until Xie Meng let go of him, and he knelt on the ground, coughing.


    ¡°Scum!¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan spat. ¡°Aren¡¯t you fucking off yet?!¡±


    Lin Hengjing staggered as he stood up. Finally, he glanced over at Xie Meng, then stared at Ji Qinyang, reluctant to leave.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°?¡±


    Lin Hengjing did not give up. ¡°He¡­ Does he also like men¡­¡±


    Xie Meng could neither laugh nor cry. With a cold face, he shielded Ji Qinyang with his body and warned, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to be sent to the hospital again, don¡¯t even think about him.¡±


    Lin Hengjing¡¯s face had an obvious look of fear. He hesitated for moment, and eventually got into his car in wretchedness.


    When Lin Hengjing¡¯s car drove off, Ji Qinyang still had a bewildered look on his face. ¡°What did he mean just now?¡±


    Xie Meng did not want to reply. He bought another two cornettos, one for himself, and the other, he passed to Ji Qinyang after removing the wrapper.


    ¡°Hush money is useless.¡± Ji Qinyang bit into the cornetto and spoke with his mouth full. ¡°If you don¡¯t tell me, I¡¯ll keep asking.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at him and calmly said. ¡°I didn¡¯t understand it either.¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked his brow and laughed. He pulled half his earphone wires around Xie Meng¡¯s neck, and pushed the earbud into his ear as he increased the volume a little. Xie Meng¡¯s head was almost resting on Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulder.


    The melody he had heard the last time played from the earbud.


    Xie Meng heard Ji Qinyang quietly adding the lyrics to the song. ¡°The years move on without rest, the days pass by, tender and slow. Little by little, bit by bit, the times never linger.¡±


    The afterglow of the setting sun outlined Ji Qinyang¡¯s delicate features. He leaned his head over and sang by Xie Meng¡¯s ear. ¡°Your smile of fleeting snow, lights upon my heart. Little by little, bit by bit, hidden under the traces of our lives together.¡±

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    Zhang Ganggang brought his camera along on the day of the sports meet. As they were walking in the formation, he was taking photos. When Ji Qinyang was participating in the high jump event, he was taking photos. Even when Qi Fei was lying on the ground panting with his tongue out after the 1500m running event, he also took photos of that.


    ¡°¡­¡± Qi Fei shouted angrily at the camera that was in his face. ¡°Zhang Ganggang what the hell are you taking photos of? Quickly help me up!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang reached out. ¡°Yes, yes.¡± He looked around, ¡°Where¡¯s Xie Meng?¡±


    Qi Fei twisted the bottle of mineral water open and poured it over his head. ¡°He¡¯s part of the second team doing the high jump. Ji Qinyang has left to accompany him and didn¡¯t come to cheer me on!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s normal.¡± Zhang Ganggang consoled him. ¡°People always prefer the new to the old.¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    Where the high jump area was, Xie Meng was warming up, and Ji Qinyang was next to him. Xie Meng was dressed differently from the rest in short-sleeved shirts and shorts, he was in a simple trousers and a shirt. Ji Qinyang was talking to him with his hands in his pockets.


    When Zhang Ganggang dragged Qi Fei over to cheer him on, Xie Meng was about to do his jump.


    ¡°Xie Meng!¡± Zhang Ganggang yelled. ¡°Fighting!!!¡±


    Xie Meng heard him, and turned his head and waved. Ji Qinyang suddenly pulled at him.


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng looked down and found that his shoelaces were loose. Before he could bend down, Ji Qinyang had already crouched down.


    ¡°¡­¡± Unconsciously, Xie Meng pulled his foot back


    Ji Qinyang looked up. He raised his brow at Xie Meng. ¡°Why did you move your foot?¡±


    Xie Meng felt awkward. ¡°There¡¯s no need¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang ignored him, and deftly tied his shoelaces. Pressing his hands on his knees, Xie Meng shyly thanked him.


    Ji Qinyang smiled. ¡°Fighting.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. He extended his hand to Ji Qinyang, and from the corner of his eyes, he saw that Zhang Ganggang was still taking photos¡­


    Zhang Ganggang was very excited. ¡°The two of you, come closer. I¡¯ll take a few more shots.¡±


    As the ranking of the classes were according to points, so other than the athletes having to work hard, the cheer team also had to work hard. Every note that was submitted could be awarded an extra point, and Maitreya led Wu Xiaomei and the rest of the girls to busy themselves writing.


    Writing was one thing, but there also needed to be participants. As there were too few students, in the end, Class Three had to have the athletes cheer each other on, and you could often see the comical sight of the athletes running all over the place.


    After finishing the high jump, Xie Meng went to watch Zhang Ganggang throw shot put. Amongst a group of sturdy and muscular professional athletes, Zhang Ganggang looked like a little abused chick in a nest that did not get enough food¡­


    ¡°Hi¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang trembled with fear. ¡°Friendship first, competition second¡­¡±


    A group of bulky fatties looked down at him.


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang¡¯s look on his face screamed his fright.


    After the track and field events, the results of Class Three were not ideal. Other than Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng getting the top two scores in high jump, Qi Fei getting second place in the 1500m run, as the champion was a national runner who easily lapped him¡­


    ¡°We¡¯re 30 points away from first place.¡± Qi Fei held Zhang Ganggang¡¯s camera as he calculated. ¡°If we can win the 100m relay race, we¡¯ll cut the lead in half.¡±


    Ji Qinyang tapped his chin. ¡°We have to rearrange the order of the runners. Qi Fei will be the first one, I¡¯ll be the last one.¡±


    Chen Dong raised his hand. ¡°I¡¯m not that good, so I¡¯ll take the second spot.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Then the third spot will be for Xie Meng.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at Ji Qinyang, and gave just a nod.


    Zhang Ganggang headed towards them in a hurry. ¡°I went to check it out! The other classes don¡¯t  have any good runners, so Class 6 is our biggest competitor. Zhuo Xiaoyuan will be taking the last position!¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled. ¡°The time for revenge has come so soon.¡±


    Qi Fei was stretching his legs. Hearing that, he cheered out loudly. The four people stuck the numbers on their back, and when they were about to enter the track, Xie Meng suddenly stopped Qi Fei.


    ¡°I¡¯ll swap with you.¡± He handed Qi Fei his number. ¡°I¡¯ll go first.¡±


    Usually, the speed between the both were similar. Qi Fei did not think too much about it, and swapped with Xie Meng. When they were in the respective positions, Ji Qinyang did not see Xie Meng when he turned around.


    A hundred metres away, Qi Fei waved at him.


    Ji Qinyang squinted. He stared at the runners in the first position. Xie Meng was already preparing to start running, and his back looked full of energy.


    The starting gun went off.


    Cheers and encouragement rang from the audience. The girls also stopped writing notes, and Maitreya took the lead in cheering his class on, while Zhang Ganggang took photos with much anxiety and nervousness.


    ¡°Xie Meng¡¯s in the lead! Xie Meng¡¯s in the lead!¡± Wu Xiaomei was about to jump off the stand. Coming around the curve, Xie Meng had an obvious lead from the runner in second place.


    Chen Dong shouted from the second position. ¡°Hurry hurry hurry!!!¡±


    Xie Meng handed the baton over. Because his speed was so fast, he had ran with Chen Dong for nearly ten metres, and their lead was apparent. For the second runner, his pressure was a lot lesser.


    Zhang Ganggang ran up to hug Xie Meng.


    ¡°It¡¯s not over yet.¡± Xie Meng laughed as he rubbed Zhang Ganggang¡¯s head. He saw that Chen Dong had already passed the baton to Qi Fei, and Class Six had also caught up. For now, it was hard to tell who would be first.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the finishing line.¡± Xie Meng told Zhang Ganggang. The third runner was already halfway done, and the two classes that were leading were neck to neck. Ji Qinyang, in the last position, was already prepared to take the baton.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan took his baton at about the same time.


    At the finishing line, Xie Meng¡¯s eyes were glued to the runners passing the last curve. There were more and more people from Class Six joining him, and they were all yelling out Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s name together. Ji Qinyang¡¯s lead was not obvious.


    Zhang Ganggang was extremely anxious. Qi Fei and Chen Dong had also came over, but their cheers of encouragement were no competition for the volume of Class Six. In a fit of anger, Qi Fei brought the group and waited right in front of the finishing line.


    ¡°Yang-ge!!!!¡± Qi Fei roared with all his might.


    Zhang Ganggang shouted as he took photos. ¡°W High¡¯s Number 1 Beauty!!!!¡±


    Chen Dong, ¡°Obedient pretty boy!!!!¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Everyone was staring at him.


    Xie Meng took a deep breath and yelled, ¡°Ji Qinyang!¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked up. Xie Meng opened his arms at the finishing line. He looked into his eyes, smiled and yelled again. ¡°Ji Qinyang!¡±


    The next second, the gun sounded again. Ji Qinyang had already thrown himself into Xie Meng¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Yeah!!!!!!!¡± The first one to realised they had won was Qi Fei. He shouted as he embraced Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng who were still hugging each other, and Chen Dong and Zhang Ganggang also jumped onto them.


    Zhang Ganggang was so happy that he forgot himself. ¡°We won we won we won!!!¡±


    Xie Meng was being hugged by Ji Qinyang. The boy was very strong, and his waist was nearly hurting from the pressure on it. Xie Meng had to put his arm around Ji Qinyang and patted him on his shoulder.


    Ji Qinyang suddenly lifted him up.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang held him up for a very long time.


    Xie Meng could neither laugh nor cry, ¡°Am I not heavy?¡±


    Ji Qinyang chuckled a couple of times. He tightened his arms around Xie Meng again, then slowly put him down.


    ¡°You should eat more.¡± Ji Qinyang said. ¡°You¡¯re too light.¡±


    All the track and field events had concluded in the morning. Class Three was less than ten points away from first place. To the classes without any sports athletes, the ball games in the afternoon was like a blessing.


    Wu Xiaomei led the girls in dodgeball, and took their first championship.


    ¡°Ahh!!!¡± A group of girls screamed as they hugged each other, and even spontaneously lined up and went around the stadium celebrating, doing the rabbit dance.


    Qi Fei led the boys in cheering. ¡°Which class has the prettiest girls?!¡±


    The boys shouted, ¡°Class 3!¡±


    ¡°Which class has the cutest girls?!¡±


    ¡°Class 3!¡±


    ¡°Which class has the smartest girls?!¡±


    ¡°Class 3!¡±


    The girls laughed in amusement, and when it came to the boys¡¯ basketball match, Wu Xiaomei returned the favour.


    She somehow managed to get cheerleading pom poms for the girls, and the twenty-plus girls had one each in their hands, cheering orderly by the court side.


    ¡°The girls in our class are really encouraging.¡± Chen Dong laughed as he dribbled the ball, warming up.


    Zhang Ganggang handed his camera to Xie Meng, asking him to take photos of him holding the basketball.


    ¡°Make the shot look good.¡± Zhang Ganggang tried to pose coolly. ¡°They¡¯re for Rourou.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°Is it done? Is it done?¡±


    ¡°¡­ You shouldn¡¯t try too hard.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang put the ball on his head.


    ¡°¡­ Next pose.¡±


    After thinking about it, Zhang Ganggang put the basketball between his legs.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang could not watch it anymore. He helped to pose Zhang Ganggang in the simplest position, the basketball under his armpit.


    In the tournament between the six classes, two classes dropped out of it. Among the four classes, there would be two matches, and the winners of each match would face the other in the finals. The strength Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s class was undeniable, and was sure to go into the finals. As for the rest, there was only Class Three, this dark horse, and the two teams were like enemies on a narrow road, always bound to meet.


    ¡°Let us win?¡± Qi Fei shamelessly asked Zhuo Xiaoyuan. ¡°You guys won¡¯t have enough points even if you win. If we win, we¡¯ll be in first place.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan ignored him.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. No need for them to give us chances. I¡¯ll watch him.¡±


    ¡°You?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked mocking. ¡°Why, you don¡¯t want your restricted zone anymore?¡±


    Ji Qinyang pointed at Xie Meng, laughing provocatively. ¡°We have a secret weapon.¡±


    This classic line from Coach Anzai2


    Twenty minutes later, Zhang Ganggang left the court gloomily¡­


    The game continued, and Zhuo Xiaoyuan started shooting his three-pointers.


    Qi Fei, ¡°Why does it look like the ball wouldn¡¯t go into the basket from his position?!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°That¡¯s right that¡¯s right! See, it didn¡¯t go in!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    Qi Fei replaced Zhuo Xiaoyuan, and immediately ran into the restricted zone once he got the ball.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan started teaching Zhang Ganggang. ¡°See, this is how a mad dog would play basketball. There¡¯s no strategy to it at all, his intelligence is too low. Don¡¯t learn from him.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang nodded his head vigorously.


    ¡°¡­ Who has low intelligence?!¡± The mad dog Qi Fei roared. ¡°I¡¯ll bite you!¡±


    Finally, Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng were also tired.


    ¡°The three of you can go and play.¡± Ji Qinyang tossed the ball to Zhuo Xiaoyuan, then opened a bottle of water and passed it to Xie Meng. The two of them sat by the courtside, quietly watching the three clowns play basketball.


    The back of Xie Meng¡¯s shirt was drenched with sweat. He undid his top button and fanned the shirt slightly, revealing the clean and gentle lines of his collarbone.


    Ji Qinyang turned his face away, looking up and straightening his fringe. It was not long before he could not help himself and turned his head back.


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng had already buttoned his shirt back up. He smiled at Ji Qinyang.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    Before the summer vacation, Zhang Ganggang nervously sent a text to Rourou. ¡°Do you have time to go swimming during the vacation?¡±


    The response came quickly. ¡°Sorry¡­ I might have to go for tuition during the vacation.¡±


    It was impossible for him to not be disappointed, but as a understanding and sensible man (¡­) Zhang Ganggang naturally would not be calculative about it.


    Rourou sent another text. ¡°You must take photos for me when you go swimming. I miss you very very much, that basketball photo was my wallpaper for a long time.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng recorded the summer homework down, and saw Zhang Ganggang¡¯s flushed face when he turned around.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng was very worried. ¡°Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    Qi Fei laughed wickedly. ¡°It¡¯s not that he¡¯s feeling unwell, he¡¯s just horny.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    After the summer solstice, the temperature in Suzhou soared up. During the day, the sun was shining, heating up the air. However, the night was still cool. Xie Meng would occasionally carry a rattan chair out to the yard for Zhang Xiujuan to enjoy the breeze.


    His schedule did not change a bit. He woke up early to practise his martial arts, and exchanged blows with Zhang Xiujuan.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going out to play during the vacation?¡± The old lady¡¯s fists were brisk and efficient, and was merciless to even her little grandson. ¡°Don¡¯t always stay at home, you¡¯ll grow mold.¡±


    Xie Meng spoke helplessly, ¡°If I go out all the time, what to do if something happens to you?¡±


    ¡°What can happen to me? Don¡¯t be so anti-social.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng could neither laugh nor cry. ¡°I¡¯m going swimming today.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan perked up. ¡°With a girl?¡±


    ¡°A boy, he¡¯s coming over later.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan stared at him. ¡°Hah, you¡®re something, even wanting others to come pick you up. Go take the green bean soup out from the refrigerator and warm it up. It¡¯s so hot today, don¡¯t you know how to show some courtesy?¡±


    When Ji Qinyang came, he saw Xie Meng holding a thermos flask. He raised his brow, one foot on the ground supporting his new mountain bike.


    ¡°My grandmother¡¯s green bean soup,¡± Xie Meng explained. He unscrewed the lid, pouring a cup for Ji Qinyang. ¡°Try it.¡±


    The warmth of the soup was perfect, light and refreshing. Zhang Xiujuan had added rock sugar, and the soup was sweet and yet not cloying.


    Ji Qinyang laughed as he drank. ¡°Is this considered the transport fare?¡±


    Xie Meng too laughed. He cracked a rare joke, ¡°Then you¡¯re also too cheap.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not deny it. He motioned for Xie Meng to sit behind him, and hung the thermos flask at the front of the bike.


    There were many bridges along Shanteng Street. They were small, but high. Ji Qinyang had to stand up and pedal as he ferried Xie Meng up the slope.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I come down and push the bike,¡± Xie Meng proposed.


    Ji Qinyang regulated his breathing and did not speak. When going downhill, the summer wind blew his bangs up, revealing his bright forehead, ¡°Stand up, and put your hands on my shoulder.¡±


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng was puzzled, but he did as he said.


    Ji Qinyang rushed up the highest bridge with all his might.


    As the warm wind danced past them, Xie Meng squinted, unconsciously tightening his hands around Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulders. The cycling boy smiled. He turned his head, and the bright sunshine softened his exquisite features.


    By the time they arrived at the swimming pool, both Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei were already waiting there. Zhang Ganggang even brought a duck-shaped swimming tube along with him.


    Seeing Ji Qinyang, Qi Fei was a little surprised. ¡°Didn¡¯t you just pierce your ear yesterday? It¡¯s fine to go swimming today?¡±


    Hearing that, Xie Meng turned his head, looking doubtfully at Ji Qinyang.


    Ji Qinyang revealed his left ear. On his lobe was a small silver stud.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng stared at it for a long time.


    Ji Qinyang smiled, turning his face. ¡°How does it look?¡±


    Qi Fei looked as though he could not take it anymore. In his eyes, Ji Qinyang was really too narcissistic. ¡°Enough, Boss, you¡¯re the most beautiful, you¡¯re way too sexy!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang instead was more worried that Maitreya would find out about it once school started. However, listening to Qi Fei, Ji Qinyang had already even dyed his hair before, this was so small, no one would bother about it.


    ¡°So, will you still be swimming today?¡± Once Xie Meng got used to it, he was fine with it. In his eyes, Ji Qinyang was very pretty, sometimes what he wore was even more suitable on him than on girls.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°I¡¯ll just watch from the sides, it¡¯s cooler in the pool anyway.¡±


    As they were early, not many people were in the pool. Zhang Ganggang lay on his big yellow duck, insisting on Qi Fei pushing him along, while Ji Qinyang sat by the pool alone, feeling somewhat bored, his feet in the water and his eyes unwittingly glued to Xie Meng.


    The boy was like a fish. Covered with water, he looked a lot softer than usual.


    Ji Qinyang watched him swim towards himself. Xie Meng pushed himself up and sat next to him.


    ¡°You must be very bored.¡± Xie Meng wiped the water away from his face. His complexion was very fair, but not the translucent type like Ji Qinyang. As it was a little colder getting out of the water, Ji Qinyang noticed that Xie Meng¡¯s nipples were hard.


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang scratched at his nose, coughing, ¡°A little.¡±


    Xie Meng took a towel and rubbed his hair. He thought about it, ¡°Let them play by themselves later, I¡¯ll bring you somewhere else.¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s interest grew. ¡°Oh? What are we going to do?¡±


    Xie Meng smiled, tossing the towel aside. ¡°It¡¯s no fun telling you now.¡±


    After waving goodbye at Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei, Xie Meng happened to bump into Zhuo Xiaoyuan as he led Ji Qinyang out. Zhuo Jinjin was in a pretty little swimsuit edged with lace, and she shrieked upon seeing him.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was ruthless. ¡°With this figure of yours, there¡¯s nothing to be embarrassed about.¡±


    Zhuo Jinjin huffily punched her brother.


    Ji Qinyang gave Zhuo Xiaoyuan a fistbump. ¡°Take good care of your sister.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan raised his brows. ¡°As if I need you to tell me that.¡± He looked at the both of them, ¡°You¡¯re done swimming?¡±


    Xie Meng did not answer directly. ¡°Ganggang and Qi Fei are still inside.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan clicked his tongue irritably. ¡°We¡¯ll be be playing with idiots again.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    When Ji Qinyang cycled to the door of the martial arts center, he had yet to react. Xie Meng walked up the few steps and waited for him.


    ¡°My health was poor as a child, and so my grandmother sent me here.¡± Xie Meng greeted the uncle at the door, walking towards the sanshou hall familiarly. There was no one in the changing room, and Xie Meng passed Ji Qinyang a new set of athletic wear.


    The boy himself was wearing a chinese silk jacket, and his feet were bare.


    Ji Qinyang followed him, taking his shoes off and walking behind him into the hall.


    The instructor was still teaching his disciples. Many of them looked around five or six years old. They were in the horse stance, and childishly shouting along as they punched the air.


    ¡°Will I be following along with them?¡± Ji Qinyang was curious. He watched as Xie Meng pulled on his wrist guards, and had a pair tossed at him.


    ¡°It¡¯s too late for you to learn the basics now,¡± Xie Meng laughed. ¡°I¡¯ll teach you the practical techniques, normally used for self-defense.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was somewhat amazed. ¡°I never thought that you¡¯ll knew such things.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. He pulled Ji Qinyang¡¯s arm towards him, crossing it with his own arm. Then, he drew his palm back and pushed it forward, and Ji Qinyang followed along with his rhythm.


    ¡°Left foot in front, right foot at the back, and your front knee slightly bent.¡± As Xie Meng spoke, he moved his left leg around Ji Qinyang, and the arm that was crossed with his straightened and pulled. Ji Qinyang fell forward, and before he could react, Xie Meng kneed him in the calf. With a twist of the body, Ji Qinyang was pushed onto the ground, unable to move.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng looked down at him. ¡°The ancient masters said, hands, heads, fingers, palms, fists, elbows, shoulders, knees, legs, hips, arms. Each part could be used in an attack. Pay attention to the unexpected, and work practically.¡±


    He helped Ji Qinyang up, and put on a defensive posture. ¡°Your turn to try it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang lay on the ground, sweating. Xie Meng poured him some green bean soup.


    ¡°What was that just now?¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly asked.


    Xie Meng, ¡°Wing Chun, San Ban Fu.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°This is also part of Sanshou?¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°It¡¯s part of the traditional Chinese martial arts.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°How come you know everything? What a grandmaster.¡±


    ¡°Wong Kar-wai¡¯s film wasn¡¯t too bad,¡± Xie Meng laughed as well. ¡°The special effects are just a little over-exaggerated.¡±


    Ji Qinyang nodded. ¡°Mn, duangduang1.¡±


    Xie Meng nearly sprayed out the green bean soup in his mouth. Ji Qinyang rested for a while before standing up, circling his wrists and ankles.


    ¡°You want to practise some more?¡± Xie Meng was surprised, ¡°With such urgency, aren¡¯t you afraid you won¡¯t be able to get up tomorrow morning?¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked his brow, playing with a pun, ¡°In such matters of pounding, a man should never lose.¡±


    Qi Fei again invited Ji Qinyang to go swimming halfway through the summer vacation.


    ¡°Your piercing has healed, right?¡± Qi Fei held his phone between his shoulder and ear, coaxing his little cousin to take his nap. ¡°I¡¯ve invited Zhang Ganggang and Zhuo Xiaoyuan as well. Xie Meng and you have to come, if not I¡¯ll have to playing with two idiots alone.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°I¡¯m not free, I¡¯ve been busy with other things recently.¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°Great Artist, you¡¯re composing music and lyrics? Then call Xie Meng, he should be free right?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not free either, you don¡¯t have to ask him.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Ji Qinyang said lazily, ¡°So, you three idiots will have to play with each other.¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    When Xie Meng received Zhang Ganggang¡¯s call, he was teaching Ji Qinyang how to quickly subdue his opponent facing the wall. He pulled Ji Qinyang¡¯s hands behind his back, his thigh between Ji Qinyang¡¯s thighs.


    ¡°Excuse me¡­¡± Xie Meng motioned that he was answering the call. Ji Qinyang¡¯s expression was a little awkward, and he tried his best to let his body relax, leaning against the wall.


    ¡°What are you doing with Number One Beauty?¡± Zhang Ganggang complained. ¡°We can¡¯t even meet up to play.¡±


    It took Xie Meng to realise who the number one beauty was..


    ¡°I¡¯ve been working lately.¡± Xie Meng glanced at Ji Qinyang. This was not a lie. Other than teaching Ji Qinyang, he had also been teaching other small children.


    Zhang Ganggang knew the economic situation of Xie Meng¡¯s family very well, and immediately deflated. ¡°Oh right¡­ Is it tough?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°Is it fun?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it. ¡°It¡¯s fun.¡± He looked at Ji Qinyang, who had been pressed against the wall by himself. Laughing, he stressed again, ¡°It¡¯s very fun.¡±


    Ji Qinyang curled his lips. He moved his shoulder suddenly, knocking into Xie Meng¡¯s shoulder. The latter was caught off guard, and was pushed into the wall by Ji Qinyang, and their positions were now reversed.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled wickedly and mouthed, ¡°It¡¯s¡ªvery¡ªfun.¡±


    By the time the summer vacation was about to end, Ji Qinyang could exchange about ten blows with Xie Meng. Although Mo Suyuan could not understand why her son¡¯s hobbies had changed in such a strange direction, she still supported him and made him sets of martial arts wear that were each suitable for spring, summer, autumn and winter.


    Whereas Ji Shanrong was very gratified, and he even specially wrote, ¡°Martial arts is noble, benevolent and chivalrous¡±, hanging it up in Ji Qinyang¡¯s music room.


    In the last few days of the vacation, Ji Qinyang woke up early every day, going for a run, a cycle, and practising the Xingyi Fist as he listened to music.


    Mo Suyuan had finished preparing the breakfast, and watched her son in infatuation, ¡°My little fellow is so handsome.¡±


    Ji Shanrong coughed with feigned sternness.


    Mo Suyuan laughed, ¡°Fine, old man, you¡¯re very handsome too.¡±


    Ji Qinyang finished the soymilk and kissed his mother on the cheek.


    Mo Suyuan patted him on the back. ¡°Will you come back to eat?¡±


    Ji Qinyang waved his hand, signalling no. He put on his earphones and ran downstairs, humming.


    ¡°¡­¡± Mo Suyuan pressed her palms to her face, worried. ¡°Is our son in love?¡±


    Ji Shanrong shook his newspapers, snorting, ¡°It¡¯s not like he has never brought a girl back home before.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s different this time.¡± She smiled, ¡°He¡¯s my son. If he really likes someone, how could I possibly not know?¡±


    Face to face, Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang were going through the Taichi steps. The two of them vaguely had an impression of a master¡¯s bearing. Probably because he had no foundation, Ji Qinyang progressed rapidly without any limitations. Like a piece of paper that had been splashed with ink, it turned into a fantastic scroll, only seeking to win fast and accurately.


    Ji Qinyang threw his left fist, and Xie Meng raised his hand and blocked it. Ji Qinyang¡¯s right knee followed, and Xie Meng withstood it. Thrusting his palm, he aimed it at Ji Qinyang, pushing him away. With the pressure on his chest, Ji Qinyang retreated a few steps.


    Xie Meng gave a small smile, and did not let him go. With a lift of his leg, he kicked Ji Qinyang on his shoulder. The latter reacted quickly, and immediately grabbed Xie Meng¡¯s calf.


    Xie Meng, ¡°!¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s other hand seized at Xie Meng¡¯s chest, almost lifting him up, and twisting about, they both fell onto the ground.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang was lying right on top of Xie Meng. Pushing himself up, he looked down at him with a smile.¡±


    Xie Meng was a little dispirited. ¡°What maneuver did you use just now¡­¡±


    ¡°I learnt it from the movies.¡± Ji Qinyang did not seem to have any intentions of getting up. He suddenly tugged at Xie Meng¡¯s fringe. ¡°Isn¡¯t it very useful?¡±


    Xie Meng exhaled, and moved his legs. ¡°Get up¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang was lazy, and refused to move.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    The boy suddenly rubbed against his shoulder for a while, like a puppy. Xie Meng touched his shoulder, it was all Ji Qinyang¡¯s sweat¡­


    ¡°You¡­¡± Xie Meng burst out laughing.


    Ji Qinyang laughed as well. He stood up, pulling Xie Meng¡¯s arm. ¡°School¡¯s about to start, have you finished the homework?¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡±


    ¡°Great, let me copy your math homework¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    Every year, the first of September was a big day for all students. The ones in their second year would move on to their third year, the first years would become second years, and there would be a new batch of fresh young faces in the first year.


    Early in the morning from the corridor of the second floor, Qi Fei looked down. Zhang Ganggang had made a few journeys back and forth to move several books, and when he returned, Qi Fei was still standing there.


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Zhang Ganggang went up to him.


    Qi Fei hooked his arm around Zhang Ganggang¡¯s neck, speaking with a mysterious expression, ¡°I heard that there¡¯s a beauty amongst the first years. Come, look out for her with gege.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was scornful. ¡°So what about a beauty? She¡¯s definitely not as good looking as Rourou.¡±


    ¡°Forget it, who knows if your Rourou is a cow or a pig? Only you think she¡¯s a fairy.¡±


    All that filled his mind now was his Rourou, and Zhang Ganggang was not concerned about Qi Fei¡¯s insult. ¡°So did you manage to find that beauty?¡±


    Qi Fei sighed, ¡°In the past, Boss Ji could just stand anywhere and the beauties would come by their own initiative¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was indifferent. With the corner of his eye, he saw Xie Meng about to come upstairs with his books. He immediately yelled, ¡°Xie Meng!¡±


    The boy raised his head, and Ji Qinyang who was walking beside him stopped as well.


    ¡°Boss!¡± Qi Fei shouted deliberately, ¡°Let¡¯s play basketball in the afternoon!¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not answer. He turned to Xie Meng and asked, ¡°Are you going?¡±


    Xie Meng nodded and smiled, ¡°We haven¡¯t played together in a while.¡±


    The academic pressure on the second year students gradually picked up. Many students started to attend extra classes in order to lay a good foundation for next semester when they would split into the science or arts stream.


    Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng never discussed about such topics, and it was not sure if they were indifferent or subconsciously avoiding it.


    Instead, it was Qi Fei who privately mentioned it during language class. ¡°I heard from Maitreya today that Xie Meng is going to participate in the Olympiad competition. He¡¯ll be going to another school for extra classes in a few days.¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s brows creased, and did not say a word. With a ear bud in his left ear, he continued writing. The language teacher was analyzing ancient poems, and Ji Qinyang¡¯s paper was still the model.


    Qi Fei sneaked a glance at him. ¡°You¡¯re definitely going into the arts stream, right?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not acknowledge the question, and his eyes fell on Xie Meng in the front row. The boy¡¯s hair was a little long again. With his head lowered, the beautiful curve to his neck was revealed.


    ¡°Zhang Ganggang wants to study mass communications, and so decided on arts,¡± Qi Fei whispered. ¡°I¡¯ve asked Zhuo Xiaoyuan already. Since he wants to go into medicine, he¡¯ll definitely choose science.¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s pen ran out of ink. He pressed firmly on his paper a few times, then tossed it into his desk impatiently.


    Qi Fei sighed, ¡°Don¡¯t be like this. Even if we¡¯re separated into different classes, we can still see each other and play together.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was silent, and plugged his ears with his ear buds. He saw Xie Meng look back in his direction, and their eyes met.


    Ji Qinyang averted his eyes first.


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng looked at Qi Fei, and the latter shrugged innocently.


    Xie Meng did not reject the matter about the Olympiad. He found a time to tell Zhang Ganggang about it.


    ¡°I wonder if Rourou will be going too,¡± Zhang Ganggang spoke dreamily.


    ¡°If she¡¯s in the international class, it¡¯s likely she¡¯ll go.¡± Xie Meng then saw Ji Qinyang entering from the front door.


    ¡°Ji Qinyang.¡± Xie Meng waved.


    Ji Qinyang glanced at him lazily, deliberately taking off his earphones and asked, ¡°You called me?¡±


    Xie Meng could neither laugh nor cry, ¡°Yes, I called you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s lips twisted, and he slowly walked over.


    ¡°Would you like to come to my house today?¡± Xie Meng gave a good-tempered smile. ¡°I have something for you.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang heard him and immediately said, ¡°I want to go too, I want to go too! It¡¯s been so long, but I¡¯ve never been to your place before!¡±


    Xie Meng was just about to tell him next time, then he heard Ji Qinyang suddenly speak up.


    ¡°Sure.¡± He glanced at Xie Meng. ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    As compared to Zhang Ganggang¡¯s excitement, Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang looked a lot more silent on their way back. Ji Qinyang attentively listened to his music, occasionally hitting a rhythm along with the melody. Xie Meng looked over at him a few times, but was ignored.


    No matter how slow Zhang Ganggang was, he too realized something was wrong. He leaned into Xie Meng¡¯s ear, whispering, ¡°You had a fight with Beauty Ji?¡±


    Xie Meng hesitated for a moment and shook his head.


    Zhang Ganggang patted his shoulder with a look of understanding. ¡°Hurry and make up, I¡¯ll create an opportunity for you guys to be alone later.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang had obviously forgot that the so-called opportunity to be alone had long been destroyed by him¡­


    In the afternoon, Zhang Xiujuan would go to the geriatric university to learn Chinese painting. In the fridge was a fruit tea and green bean soup. Xie Meng welcomed Zhang Ganggang and Ji Qinyang into the house, going alone into the kitchen to get some cups.


    The walls outside the old-fashioned house were covered with ivy. The living room was very dark, and the wind brought with it the damp scent of earth from the yard. Xie Meng¡¯s house was clean and tidy. Two black and white portraits hung upon the wall, and on the table below, there were fruits and an urn.


    ¡°Those are my parents.¡± Probably afraid of awkwardness, Xie Meng took the initiative to explain. He came out with tea and snacks, only to have Ji Qinyang take them from him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take them,¡± Ji Qinyang said indifferently.


    Xie Meng stopped, then smiled, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    The three people sat down at the square table in the living room. Zhang Ganggang look at the portraits and could not help asking, ¡°Uncle and Auntie¡­ What happened to them?¡±


    Xie Meng lit a joss stick and inserted it into the urn. ¡°My parents were the first group of freelance journalists. When I was 6 years old, they went to Israel and Palestine¡­ and passed away in the conflict there.¡± He looked at Zhang Ganggang, ¡°You like taking photos right? I have many photos taken by my parents in my room, would you like to see them?¡±


    Of course Zhang Ganggang wanted to see, but he felt embarrassed about bothering Xie Meng, and hurriedly said, ¡°Just remain seated, I¡¯ll take them myself.¡±


    Xie Meng told him where the photos were and let him look by himself. Only Ji Qinyang and him were left in the living room.


    The smell of the joss stick gradually filled the room. Ji Qinyang drank his tea, looking intently at Xie Meng¡¯s face.


    ¡°¡­ There¡¯s something on my face?¡± Xie Meng rubbed his cheeks with the back of his hand, uncertain, but did not feel anything on them.


    ¡°Right,¡± Xie Meng suddenly remembered. ¡°I have a gift for you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang watched Xie Meng stand up and retrieve a box from the cupboard behind.


    Xie Meng looked a little nervous. ¡°I¡¯ll be attending the Olympiad training in a few days. I might not make it in time for your birthday, so I prepared it in advance.¡±


    Ji Qinyang undid the wrapping of the box, and found that it was actually a pair of Sony headphones inside.


    ¡°I don¡¯t really know which one¡¯s better, so I asked a lot¡­ This one was recommended by the salesman.¡± Xie Meng smiled at Ji Qinyang, ¡°However, you¡¯ll be the one to decide if they¡¯re good or not.¡±


    Xie Meng saw that Ji Qinyang did not react, and could only force himself to continue, ¡°This is the manual, they work with your MP3 player as well. I didn¡¯t throw the receipt away, the warranty is for 2 years, if it doesn¡¯t suit you¡­¡± Xie Meng felt a heat upon his lips, the rest of his words had all been blocked.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s face was very close. His eyelashes were long and curled up, and his eyes were smiling.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°What happens if they¡¯re not suitable?¡± The touch of the lips was still indistinct, and Ji Qinyang had already returned back to a safe distance. As though nothing had happened, he plugged the headphones into his MP3 player.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng said blankly, ¡°Umm¡­ You can use the receipt and exchange it.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Ji Qinyang put on the headphones and smiled. ¡°But they¡¯re a present from you, how could they not be suitable?¡±


    The students participating in the Olympiad had been split into two classes, and each class had fifteen students. The classes were held from 2pm till 8pm every day, and the classes were divided according to their progress. Xie Meng was the only non S-High student in the express class.


    Han Dong was not surprised when he saw him on the first day. ¡°It¡¯s been a while.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled, ¡°It¡¯s been a while.¡±


    His former classmates came successively to greet him, and Xie Meng responded to them one by one, his expression cool.


    ¡°After Lin Hengjing¡¯s affairs were settled, the Academic Department seemed to have contacted your grandmother to discuss about you transferring back.¡± Han Dong glanced at him, ¡°However, they were harshly rejected.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan had never mentioned this to Xie Meng, but he could imagine his grandmother¡¯s tone at that time.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing very well in W-High,¡± Xie Meng said.


    Han Dong gave him a scornful glance, ¡°I¡¯m also not blind. I can see that you¡¯re now soaked in bliss.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    At 8pm when the class ended, Han Dong and Xie Meng exchanged their notes. As they were discussing the topics, they bumped into the students from the normal class that were dismissed at the same time.


    Lin Weixin was standing gracefully by the back door.


    ¡°Xie Meng.¡± The girl took the initiative to call out to him, her smile very sweet.


    Han Dong chuckled, poking at Xie Meng¡¯s arm. ¡°Aren¡¯t you lucky.¡±


    Xie Meng glared at him, helpless, then looked down at Lin Weixin, ¡°You¡¯re not going back yet?¡±


    Lin Weixin swept her long hair from the front to her back with a smooth action, her eyes shining, ¡°I¡¯m waiting for you¡­ Let¡¯s go back together?¡±


    It was almost 10pm when Xie Meng returned home. Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s door was closed, and a commentary was playing from her old-fashioned radio inside. Xie Meng quietly took a shower and returned to his room. Lying on his bed, he was unable to fall asleep.


    He sat up, opened his bag and took out Lin Weixin¡¯s letter. Sniffing at it, he realised there was actually perfume on it.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng smiled wryly and tossed the letter back into his bag.


    On the table was boiled water that had already been cooled, and Xie Meng poured himself a glass. He then saw Zhang Xiujuan removing the facial mask from her face while humming <A Girl¡¯s Love> as she walked out of her room. When she saw her grandson, she was startled.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you let me know you were back?¡± Zhang Xiujuan threw the mask away and complained. ¡°Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make something myself if I¡¯m hungry. You should head to bed,¡± Xie Meng urged. Zhang Xiujuan yawned and patted him on the head, ¡°Then I¡¯m going to bed, don¡¯t stay up too late.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. He drank some water, and his head again started to hurt when he remembered Lin Weixin.


    The urn in front of his parents¡¯ portraits was full. Xie Meng poured out some of the ashes onto the plants, and lit three joss sticks and inserted them into the urn.


    The fragrance of the joss stick wafted into his nose. As though possessed, Xie Meng touched his lips with his fingers.


    It felt as though there were still traces of Ji Qinyang left.


    As the training class started at 2pm every day, Xie Meng would still attend school as per normal in the morning. The first thing Zhang Ganggang asked upon seeing him was about Rourou.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng had completely forgot about it. He was very apologetic, ¡°I¡¯ll help you ask today¡­ I really forgot.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was magnanimous. ¡°It¡¯s alright. Then did you bring the album?¡±


    Ever since his visit to Xie Meng¡¯s house, Zhang Ganggang had been thinking non-stop about the photos taken by Xie Meng¡¯s parents.


    Xie Meng did not forget this. ¡°Yes.¡± He took the album out from his bag, and Lin Weixin¡¯s letter was accidentally pulled out along with it. Zhang Ganggang deftly grabbed it.


    ¡°You actually received a love letter and you didn¡¯t show it to me?!¡± Zhang Ganggang was jealous. ¡°Are we still buddies?!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng replied awkwardly, ¡°It¡¯s not what you think it is¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang held the letter up, refusing to let him take it back. Suddenly, his hand was empty, and he turned around to see Ji Qinyang standing behind him.


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. Around his neck were the headphones Xie Meng had given him. Waving the letter in his hand lightly, he had a smile on his face. ¡°A love letter?¡±


    Xie Meng somehow felt guilty. He opened his mouth, denying it, ¡°No¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Ji Qinyang responded, ¡°Then I¡¯ll help you throw it away?¡±


    Xie Meng frowned.


    Ji Qinyang looked at him, and tossed the letter onto the table. His smile dimmed a little, ¡°I was joking. You can keep it.¡±


    When Xie Meng tidied his bag in the afternoon, he purposely took out Lin Weixin¡¯s letter. Thinking about it, he finally stuffed it into a pile of books in his desk.


    Xie Meng took a leave of absence from the PE class. There was no one in the classroom. He packed his bag, and Ji Qinyang came in as he was about to leave.


    Just as their eyes met, Xie Meng unconsciously shifted his eyes. As a result, his action was too deliberate, and instead made things awkward.


    ¡°You¡¯re leaving now?¡± Ji Qinyang greeted him with a natural expression.


    ¡°Mn.¡± Seeing that Ji Qinyang was calm, Xie Meng too relaxed a little. He looked at Ji Qinyang wearing the headphones and could not help asking, ¡°Ji Qinyang¡­ How does your family express their gratitude?¡±


    ¡°?¡± Ji Qinyang was baffled. ¡°Why are you suddenly asking about this?¡±


    Xie Meng bit his tongue. ¡°That day¡­ when you kissed me¡­ Was it because you were very happy¡­ and wanted to thank me?¡±


    Ji Qinyang was silent, before he laughed, ¡°Why do you think of it in this manner?¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang walked up and stood next to Xie Meng. Removing his headphones, he placed them on his head. Xie Meng unconsciously retreated, but his arm was caught by Ji Qinyang.


    The melody coming from the headphones was foreign yet familiar. Xie Meng only felt a warmth on his lips, the entire world quietening down, only leaving Ji Qinyang¡¯s singing, as though he was whispering in his ear.


    ¡°Your smile of fleeting snow, lights upon my heart, little by little, bit by bit, hidden under the traces of our lives together.¡±

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    Qi Fei came over from the basketball court and took a seat next to Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°Did you quarrel with Xie Meng?¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked at him questioningly.


    ¡°I rarely see the two of you together lately,¡± Qi Fei explained. ¡°Also, I can see that you¡¯re not in a good mood.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not deny it. He had a rare unsmiling expression, and his gaze was very cold.


    Qi Fei observed his face and spoke carefully, ¡°There¡¯s no arguments that last overnight between buddies¡­ Just talk about it and it¡¯ll be fine. There¡¯s no point in avoiding it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think it is,¡± Ji Qinyang was annoyed.


    Qi Fei shrugged, ¡°Ok, ok, don¡¯t get angry.¡± He put his arm around Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulders, ¡°Let¡¯s go play with pretty girls.¡±


    Of course, Ji Qinyang had no interest in pretty girls.


    He was agitated, emotional, but there was no way to vent it. It was like having no matter how many love songs he wrote, how well he sang them, there was no one listening to them.


    Han Dong saw that Xie Meng was in a daze, staring at his paper yet he did not write a word. He did not know what he was thinking about, and he called out to him, ¡°Hey.¡±


    ¡°¡­?¡± Xie Meng turned to look at him.


    Han Dong tapped at his paper, ¡°Are you going to work on it?¡±


    ¡°Mn¡­¡± Xie Meng smiled wryly. ¡°I got distracted.¡±


    Han Dong snorted, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re still thinking about Lin Weixin. This may sound ugly, but you¡¯ll see a person¡¯s true face when you¡¯re in difficulties. In junior high, you were a good pair, a golden couple, but what sort of attitude did she have when that happened to you?¡±


    Xie Meng was awkward, ¡°I¡¯m not thinking about her.¡±


    Han Dong smiled, shrugging it off. ¡°In this training, who doesn¡¯t know that everyday, Lin Weixin is writing a love letter for you, and waiting for you after class to walk home with you? Let me advise you, you clear it up as soon as possible if you want to do so.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Xie Meng turned the paper over and quickly listed out the formulae. ¡°I¡¯ll find a time and make it clear to her.¡±


    When the second class in the afternoon ended, Yin Luoxue came to the entrance of Class 3. Qi Fei saw her and nudged at Ji Qinyang.


    Unlike other girls, Yin Luoxue¡¯s beauty was very flashy. Even the skirt of her school uniform was deliberately shortened to reveal her long, fair legs.


    Thinking about it, Ji Qinyang might have really liked her back in junior high. However, after their breakup, their relationship was very calm. There was no nostalgia, no hostility, and no so-called sadness, and they just simply did not want to have any more entanglements with each other.


    With the whoops from some of the boys, Ji Qinyang left for the field with her.


    ¡°How long have we not spoken?¡± Yin Luoxue looked at him with a smile.


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember,¡± Ji Qinyang spoke with little interest.


    Yin Luoxue did not get angry. ¡°You¡¯re still the same, completely heartless.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was noncommittal. They continued walking along, and he impatiently spoke up, ¡°Why are you looking for me?¡±


    Yin Luoxue went straight to the point, ¡°I want to ask you for a song. Singing those few songs over and over in the bar, the customers would get bored. Our band knows about you, and later on, when people ask, we¡¯ll tell them it¡¯s your song.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not reject her, only asking, ¡°Did you bring your earphones?¡±


    Yin Luoxue grumbled, ¡°Don¡¯t you have a pair¡­ Can¡¯t I borrow it?¡± She took her earphones out.


    Ji Qinyang tossed his MP3 player over to her. ¡°Pick a song yourself.¡±


    Yin Luoxue listened to the songs for a while, her expression gradually changing. Her eyes widened, and she looked at Ji Qinyang with some astonishment, ¡°You have a person you like?¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked his brow. ¡°What¡¯s so strange about that?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ I mean¡­¡± Yin Luoxue¡¯s expression was complex. She was silent for a moment, then smiled sadly, ¡°I just thought how when we were together, you didn¡¯t write me a love song.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak, and some time passed before he spoke lightly, ¡°He doesn¡¯t like me.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Pfft!¡± Yin Luoxue rocked back and forth with laughter, wiping the tears from her eyes. ¡°Can I say that you deserve it?¡±


    Ji Qinyang shot her a side-eye glare, his expression a little ugly.


    ¡°There¡¯s actually someone that you can like so much.¡± Yin Luoxue was a little envious. She sighed, ¡°I really want to know who it is.¡±


    Ji Qinyang curled his lips, speaking coldly, ¡°Why do I have to tell you?¡±


    Yin Luoxue thought he was joking.


    Ji Qinyang smiled lazily, ¡°Didn¡¯t you always say that I¡¯m heartless? Want to know what it¡¯ll be like when I really like someone?¡±


    Yin Luoxue opened her mouth, ¡°You¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang thought about it carefully, ¡°It¡¯s like this.¡±


    Yin Luoxue, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I want to be with him, I want to kiss him, and I want to write him endless love songs.¡± Ji Qinyang was calm. ¡°I want the entire world to not know about him, and I¡¯ll be the only one.¡±


    Xie Meng had asked Maitreya to borrow the key to the library. Although this was very spineless of him, he was using revising for the Olympiad as an excuse for avoiding Ji Qinyang.


    In the morning, there were barely any students in the library. Xie Meng was distracted after looking at a few questions. He attempted to work on them several times, but could not take it in, and so he gave up.


    He moved a stepladder over, planning to look for other books on the highest shelf. While sitting on the top of the ladder flipping through the books, he heard Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    ¡°!¡± The book in Xie Meng¡¯s hand fell to the ground.


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow, then stooped down and picked it up.


    ¡°Homosexual Psychology.¡± Ji Qinyang looked at the cover and laughed. ¡°Why are you looking at this?¡±


    Xie Meng had a poker face. ¡°What are you doing here.¡±


    ¡°I skipped class.¡±


    Xie Meng frowned disapprovingly.


    Ji Qinyang replied with an air of indifference, ¡°It¡¯s Chinese, so it doesn¡¯t matter if I skip it. Also,¡± He looked up at Xie Meng. ¡°How would I be able to find you if I don¡¯t skip classes?¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Holding the <Homosexual Psychology> book, Ji Qinyang climbed up the other side of the ladder. Xie Meng remained sitting there, and watched expressionlessly as Ji Qinyang approached.


    ¡°You¡¯re not running away anymore?¡± Ji Qinyang shoved the book back into the shelf. With his hands supporting himself on the ladder, he studied Xie Meng¡¯s expression directly.


    ¡°Why do I have to run away?¡± Xie Meng¡¯s tone was a little blunt. Probably realising it, he covered his mouth, somewhat annoyed.


    Ji Qinyang smiled, staring at Xie Meng¡¯s lips. He leaned down slowly, and just as they were about to come in contact, Xie Meng suddenly turned his face away. ¡°Don¡¯t do something like this anymore¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s lips almost brushed past the boy¡¯s cheek. He narrowed his eyes, his smile a little cold. ¡°What shouldn¡¯t I do? Kiss you?¡±


    Xie Meng finally showed some emotion, and he awkwardly reproached him in a low voice, ¡°Doing this, how are you any different from Lin Hengjing?! You¡­¡±


    ¡°You clearly know I¡¯m different from him,¡± Ji Qinyang calmly interrupted him. ¡°Didn¡¯t you beat him? If you think that I¡¯m the same, why don¡¯t you beat me?¡±


    Xie Meng raised his head and glared at him fiercely.


    ¡°I¡¯m now standing on this ladder. If you push me, I¡¯ll fall, and maybe I¡¯ll get injured? A fracture, bleeding, hah, who knows?¡± Ji Qinyang held his amusement back, focusing on Xie Meng¡¯s face as he asserted, ¡°As long as you¡¯re willing to do that, I¡¯ll understand, and I won¡¯t bother you again in the future.¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s chest heaved. His mouth moved, but he was unable to say a word, his eyes blank and conflicted.


    The two people remained silent for a long time, staring at each other.


    Until Ji Qinyang suddenly reached out and held Xie Meng¡¯s face.


    The boy¡¯s palm was warm and dry, his thumb stroking Xie Meng¡¯s cheek with some force. Xie Meng shut his eyes, and he felt Ji Qinyang¡¯s forehead against his.


    ¡°Xie Meng.¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him with a complicated expression, ¡°?¡±


    Ji Chinyang took a deep breath in. ¡°I like¡­¡±


    ¡°What are you two doing?¡± The librarian knocked firmly on the bookshelf. He could only see the four legs on the ladder. ¡°How many times have I said this?! Two people are not allowed on the ladder! Do you know how dangerous it is?! Come down!¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng pulled Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand away, not daring to look him in the eye. He whispered, ¡°¡­ Let¡¯s go down.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak nor did he leave immediately. He waited for the librarian to lock the door before returning to class with Xie Meng.


    Qi Fei saw them coming in one after the other and whistled, joking, ¡°Yo, back from your date?¡±


    Ji Qinyang went up and gave him a kick.


    Zhang Ganggang too thought that they had reconciled, and exclaimed that they had to eat lunch together.


    ¡°I have an exam during today¡¯s training, I need to go over earlier.¡± Xie Meng declined graciously. He tidied his desk, and found out that Lin Weixin¡¯s letters had disappeared.


    He looked through his belongings again, but still did not find them.


    Ji Qinyang came over, ¡°What are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡­¡± Xie Meng turned his head, only to discover that their faces were very close together.


    Ji Qinyang revealed his smile, tilting his head, and quickly rubbed his nose against Xie Meng¡¯s tip of his nose.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Fortunately, no one around them noticed. Even so, Xie Meng was still nervous, his mouth dry, his palms sweaty, and his heart pounded rapidly..


    He was about to be unable to tell why he was so nervous and scared.


    The training on Saturday only took up half a day. As the competition drew closer, the training was no longer as intense, so as not to cause the students to crack under pressure. Xie Meng was one of the last few to leave the classroom, and Lin Xinwei was still waiting for him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go out for a walk.¡± Lin Xinwei spoke earnestly, ¡°There¡¯s something I¡¯ll like to tell you.¡±


    The training was held at a place very close to the park of Lake Jinji. It was rare that there were so few people in the park, and there were two small man-made lakes with varying sizes of Taihu stones in them.


    Lin Weixin carefully stepped onto the largest stone, her arms spread out to hold her balance.


    ¡°Be careful.¡±


    Lin Weixin smiled at him.


    ¡°Did you read all my letters?¡± The girl asked him.


    Xie Meng glanced at her and shook his head.


    Lin Weixin did not seem surprised. ¡°I also felt that you wouldn¡¯t read it. You¡¯re always like this. You seem very gentle, but once you come to a decision, you won¡¯t change your mind easily.¡±


    Xie Meng did not respond, and watched Lin Weixin jump onto another stone.


    ¡°I was wondering, if you don¡¯t have a girlfriend, do I still stand a chance?¡± Lin Weixin looked down at him.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng opened his mouth, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°You have someone you like?¡±


    What replied her was silence. Just as Lin Weixin thought that he would never give her an answer, she heard Xie Meng quietly acknowledged it.


    ¡°I think I have someone I like,¡± Xie Meng smiled. He looked at Lin Weixin, and repeated earnestly, ¡°I have someone I like already.¡±


    When Xie Meng received Ji Qinyang¡¯s call, the bus was still a few stops away to Guanqian Street. The boy¡¯s surroundings seemed to be very noisy, and he had to greet him several times before he heard him.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Ji Qinyang asked.


    Xie Meng looked at the sign that just passed. ¡°Yinma Bridge¡­ I¡¯m still on the bus.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed, ¡°I know you¡¯re in the bus.¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s right ear heated up with his laughter, and changed the topic somewhat unnaturally. ¡°Did you deal with my letters?¡±


    Ji Qinyang admitted it without much hesitation, ¡°Yes.¡±


    His frankness made Xie Meng choke. Standing up, preparing to get off the bus, Xie Meng joked, ¡°¡­ You¡¯re even getting jealous?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± From Ji Qinyang¡¯s side of the conversation came the announcement of the name of the bus stop. Xie Meng unconsciously looked out of the window, and the boy was standing in the crowd with his phone.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting jealous over the person I like,¡± Ji Qinyang raised his chin to look at Xie Meng in the bus, speaking slowly. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡±

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    When Han Dong walked out from the examination room, he saw Ji Qinyang leaning against the wall with his headphones one. They looked at each other, then the boy smiled and removed his headphones.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Han Dong nodded.


    ¡°Hi,¡± Ji Qinyang looked behind him. ¡°Where¡¯s Xie Meng?¡±


    ¡°He went to help the teacher collect the papers.¡±


    Ji Qinyang pointed inside. ¡°Can I go in?¡±


    Han Dong smiled, ¡°Go in, he should be waiting for you too.¡±


    Xie Meng helped the invigilator bind the papers. As he was about to finish, he could not help glancing a few times outside. The invigilator saw him and could not resist asking, ¡°Is there someone waiting for you?¡±


    Xie Meng was a little embarrassed, ¡°Mn¡­¡±


    The invigilator joked, ¡°Is it your girlfriend?¡±


    Xie Meng was a little embarrassed, but he did not deny it. He quickly bound up the last few papers and stood up, saying his farewells.


    ¡°Go on, go on,¡± The invigilator laughed and waved. ¡°Don¡¯t let your girlfriend wait too long.¡±


    Sitting in the corridor, Ji Qinyang watched Xie Meng coming from a distance. He closed his eyes and remained motionless, and as expected, Xie Meng¡¯s footsteps became lighter as he drew closer.


    Xie Meng had thought that Ji Qinyang fell asleep. He crouched down, leaning over to remove the headphones from the boy¡¯s head.


    Ji Qinyang suddenly threw his arms around Xie Meng¡¯s neck and dragged him into his embrace.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang opened his eyes and looked down at him, ¡°What did you want to do?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng tried his best not to let his entire body rest on Ji Qinyang. ¡°You weren¡¯t asleep?¡±


    ¡°I had wanted to sleep,¡± Ji Qinyang said lazily.


    Xie Meng¡¯s expression looked as though he did not really believe him.


    Ji Qinyang used one hand and stroked Xie Meng¡¯s hair, then pressed the back of his hand against his face.


    Xie Meng, ¡°?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°I want to kiss you.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang leaned into him. ¡°Can I?¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s face was suspiciously red. He averted his eyes, and his tone was stiff, ¡°¡­ Why do you have to ask?¡±


    The boy¡¯s lips tasted a little of soda, somewhat sweet, and very clean. Ji Qinyang kissed him for a while and started to feel dissatisfied. Pinching Xie Meng¡¯s cheek, he wiggled it slightly and coaxed him, ¡°Open your mouth.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng opened his mouth and his tongue immediately got caught.


    They kissed for a long time, until they had no choice but to separate.


    Ji Qinyang was still holding onto Xie Meng tightly.


    Xie Meng pushed at him, ¡°Let¡¯s get up.¡±


    Ji Qinyang hung his headphones around his neck. ¡°Want to go to my place?¡±


    ¡°Next time, ¡° Xie Meng smiled. ¡°There¡¯s a temple festival tonight on Nanhao Street, Zhang Ganggang and the others are going.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng only felt a weight on his shoulder as Ji Qinyang buried his face in his neck.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng could neither laugh nor cry, ¡°What are you whining about?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not whining.¡± Ji Qinyang murmured, ¡°I¡¯m charging myself up.¡±


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng did not understand.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°I need to charge myself full of the bliss in being with you alone, so that I can then share you with others.¡±


    Xie Meng burst out laughing. ¡°¡­ I suddenly that it¡¯s a little wasteful for you to be writing songs.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°?


    Xie Meng turned his face and kissed him on the forehead. ¡°What you say sounds even nice than what you sing.¡±


    This temple festival was the busiest one in Suzhou every year. There were shops selling a dazzling array of items, and many children were riding on the adults¡¯ shoulders. Looking out at it, it was a huge crowd of people.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan too lifted Zhuo Jinjin up. The little girl had her hair tied up in braids, and in her hand was a pinwheel.


    Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang arrived late. They had to squeeze through the crowd for quite some time before they met up with Zhang Ganggang and the others.


    ¡°How was your exam?¡± There were too much noise around them, and Qi Fei had to shout, ¡°What ranking would you get?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang bought cotton candy that was bigger than his face. Afraid of bumping into people, he could only raise it up high. ¡°How can you ask about the results right after an examination?¡±


    Qi Fei scorned, ¡°Only curve-fodders1The opposite of curve-wreckers. People who are bad at school.2 like you have this sort of thoughts.¡±


    Ji Qinyang returned with drinks that he bought, and everyone had a cup.


    ¡°When would the results come out?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan sucked on the bobas in the drink as he asked.


    Xie Meng thought about it, ¡°Probably next month.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°You and Han Dong would most likely take the first two spots. His pressure is no less than yours.¡±


    Ji Qinyang poked a straw into his milk tea, drinking a mouthful from it. He then exchanged it with the one in Xie Meng¡¯s hand that had yet to be unsealed.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Taking advantage of the fact that no one was noticing, Ji Qinyang mouthed at him, ¡°Indirect kissing.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang had finished his. He looked at Xie Meng who was holding onto his milk tea without touching it for some time, then asked, ¡°Are you not drinking it? If you¡¯re not, give it to me.¡± He then reached out for it.


    Xie Meng hurriedly sucked on the straw¡­


    ¡°I¡¯m drinking,¡± Xie Meng mumbled.


    Ji Qinyang handed Zhang Ganggang the milk tea that was still unsealed, and the latter suddenly felt embarrassed. ¡°Then what will you drink¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled and took the milk tea from Xie Meng very naturally, ¡°I¡¯ll just share one with Xie Meng.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang placed the straw Xie Meng had sucked on into his mouth, then raised his eyebrow at him.


    At night, lanterns were strung up along both sides of Nanhao Street, and bronze statues of the Eight Immortals were placed on the square. There were people dressed up as He Xiangu, carrying bamboo baskets and selling lotus flowers and lotus pods. On the stage the play of the Eight Immortals was starting, but Xie Meng and his friends were not interested.


    Behind Nanhao Street was the river around the city. The sightseeing boat was full of people. Carrying Zhuo Jinjin, Zhuo Xiaoyuan stood by the banks, and the river was brightly lit with lanterns. Sounds from gongs and drums filled the air, and the dragon and lion dancers appeared. He Xiangu was tossing a lotus flower-like silk ball around, and the dragon wandered along the river.


    The crowd moved slowly along with the dragon and lion dancers. Qi Fei grabbed onto Zhang Ganggang, turning his head with difficulty and warning, ¡°Let¡¯s walk hand in hand! If not we¡¯ll be separated!¡±


    Ji Qinyang pulled Xie Meng over, throwing his arm around his shoulders. He was almost hugging him as they slowly made their way forward. Zhuo Jinjin was riding on Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s shoulders all the way at the back. As they were rather eye-catching, they were not afraid of losing sight of them.


    Outside a shop someone lit fireworks. Bright sparks flew everywhere, and Zhang Ganggang quickly took photos for everyone.


    Qi Fei grabbed onto a lion dancer, borrowing the lion head and putting it on. Zhuo Xiaoyuan bought Zhuo Jinjin another pinwheel, and both siblings were foolishly raising their pinwheels up. Xie Meng bit into the cotton candy, while Ji Qinyang bit into the other side, and the two smiled across the candy.


    ¡°Gege!¡± Zhuo Jinjin excitedly patted at Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s head, shouting, ¡°Look! There¡¯s so many stars!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang looked up and exclaimed, ¡°The weather is really good.¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°How rare. A few more years and we probably won¡¯t be able to see it anymore.¡±


    From behind, Ji Qinyang hugged Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders. As there were too many people, such movements were not obvious.


    Zhang Ganggang raised his camera, ¡°Let¡¯s take another photo?¡±


    Four people stood together. Zhuo Jinjin was carried by Zhuo Xiaoyuan, and Zhang Ganggang quickly ran over after setting up the camera. In the end, his actions were too hurried and he did not stop in time, falling onto Xie Meng instead.


    ¡°Hurry hurry hurry!¡± Zhang Ganggang clumsily scrambled up. ¡°We¡¯re taking 3 shots in a row!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng helped him up, adjusting his posture.


    Qi Fei squeezed a sentence out from between his teeth. ¡°The second shot.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan could hardly carry his own sister anymore.


    ¡°Stay where you are! It¡¯s the last shot!!¡¯ Zhang Ganggang¡¯s mouth opened wide and shouted, ¡°K-I-S-S¡ª!¡±


    Ji Qinyang swiftly turned his head and kissed Xie Meng on his face.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang screamed as he hugged his camera, ¡°I didn¡¯t ask you guys to really kiss!!! That was our only good shot!!!¡±


    Qi Fei joked as he saw the photo, ¡°Boss Ji, you¡¯re so biased. Why didn¡¯t you kiss me? There has already been so many years between us¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s face was cold, but his focus was entirely on something else. ¡°Why am I so not photogenic¡­ It¡¯s too ugly.¡±


    The five people made a lot of noise, and in the end, they did not take another photo.


    In that photo of youth, Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s face was expressionless as he carried Zhuo Jinjin, Qi Fei was smiling until his eyes could not be seen, Zhang Ganggang was comically trying to stand up straight, and Ji Qinyang was kissing Xie Meng on his face.


    Above the city of rivers, beneath the Milky Way, the past of the long history connected with the long and mottled years that had yet to come.


    On the day the results of the Math Olympiad competition was released, Xie Meng was not very concerned about it. The school pulled out the big red banner, and Xie Meng was called out by Maitreya halfway through class to take the trophy and the certificate. He even had to take a photo.


    ¡°It¡¯s been very long since W High has had just glory.¡± Qi Fei looked towards the court. ¡°Look how happy Maitreya is.¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked from a distance, then asked casually, ¡°What are you guys going to do after school?¡±


    ¡°Zhang Ganggang wants Xie Meng to tutor him in maths, I¡¯ll probably do the same¡­ What about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve decided to take the arts route,¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly said. ¡°I received a letter of recommendation from Zhong Yin last week.¡±


    Qi Fei was stunned, then excitedly said, ¡°Boss, you¡¯re amazing! Doing all these without a sound?! It¡¯s been settled?!¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°It¡¯s only a letter of recommendation. To be accepted into their music composing faculty, I still need to pass the music theory exam.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand all that.¡± Qi Fei clicked his tongue. He was silent for a moment, then sighed, ¡°In about a year and a half, we¡¯ll probably all split apart.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. He watched Xie Meng walk through the shade. The sunlight that broke through the branches and leaves fell upon his face, and the boy had the trophy tucked casually under his arm. Walking past the corridor, he raised his chin and looked up at the second floor.


    The eyes of the two people met, and Xie Meng smiled at Ji Qinyang.


    After school, only Qi Fei, Zhang Ganggang, Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang were left in the classroom. Maitreya had left the key behind. Afraid of noise, Qi Fei closed the doors to the classroom.


    The four people put the tables together. Qi Fei and Zhang Ganggang sat side by side, like students, while Xie Meng sat opposite them. He picked out their wrong answers and explained them. Ji Qinyang had nothing to do, and so listened to music as he wrote lyrics, and was pretty peaceful.


    ¡°Bring a into b, then it¡¯s proved¡­¡± Xie Meng¡¯s pen suddenly drew a long line on the paper. Zhang Ganggang looked at it for a long time, but still did not understand.


    ¡°Prove what?¡± Zhang Ganggang looked blank. He glanced at Qi Fei, who looked even more stupid than him¡­


    Xie Meng frowned slightly. He seemed to be enduring something, and quickly finished the explanation for that question.


    ¡°Do you understand?¡± Xie Meng took a deep breath. Under the desk, Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand was on his leg, while he was writing with his head on his hand as though nothing was happening.


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang began to seriously doubt his IQ. He had no choice but to ask, ¡°Could you¡­ repeat it again?¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand moved to Xie Meng¡¯s knee, and the latter shrank a little as he was ticklish.


    Qi Fei, ¡°?¡±


    Xie Meng said awkwardly, ¡°Sorry, I bumped into you¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang finally pulled his hand back. Xie Meng resisted the impulse to look at him, and repeated his explanation.


    Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei seemed to finally understand. They took their papers back and redid them. The next second, Xie Meng¡¯s hand was caught by Ji Qinyang under the desk.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang pretended to look out of the window with his head resting on his hand. The boy¡¯s fingers slowly slid across Xie Meng¡¯s palm, then finally intertwined their fingers tightly together.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    As the weather grew colder, Xie Meng came out to train one morning and was surprised to not be exchanging any blows with Zhang Xiujuan. The old lady was basking under the sun in the courtyard, nodding off in sleep.


    ¡°Grandma.¡± Xie Meng wiped his sweat, ¡°Go in to sleep, it¡¯s cold outside.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s eyes squinted in a smile. After November, she would be turning 70. Recently, she had not been as energetic as before.


    ¡°Suddenly, I really do feel my age,¡± Zhang Xiujuan tucked in her white hair behind her ear. She patted the seat next to her, ¡°Come sit down with your grandmother.¡±


    Xie Meng sat down next to her and rubbed at her hands, ¡°Now, the ones who call themselves old are actually not old at all.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s different,¡± Zhang Xiujuan said lightly. ¡°When I say I¡¯m old, I¡¯m really old. I know it myself.¡±


    It was rare that Mo Suyuan would wake up early on Saturday to go fishing with Ji Shanrong in Xishan. She had already been used to her son running and training in the morning.


    ¡°Would you like me to prepare anything when you bring your friend over to play?¡± Mo Suyuan yawned as she rummaged through the refrigeration, mumbling, ¡°There¡¯s not enough snacks¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang wore his shoes, pulling his headphones on. ¡°He can do it himself, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Mo Suyuan gave him a look. ¡°How can you let the guest do it themselves?¡±


    Then, she was a little uncertain, ¡°Is it really not a girl?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my boyfriend.¡± Ji Qinyang raised his brow, speaking in a manner where it was not certain if he was lying or not. ¡°His name is Xie Meng, I¡¯ll introduce him to you next time.¡±


    Mo Suyuan thought he was joking. She waved at him, preparing to wait for her son to leave before taking the strawberries from the fridge into the kitchen to wash them.


    Xie Meng opened the gate to the courtyard, waiting for Ji Qinyang to stop his bicycle. When the boy was locking his bike, he suddenly asked, ¡°Hey, why doesn¡¯t the key fit?¡±


    ¡°Let me take a look.¡± Xie Meng did not doubt him. When he bent over, Ji Qinyang suddenly turned his head and planted a light, butterfly kiss on his lips.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan called out from inside the house, ¡°Xiao-Ji, come and try the red bean soup I made.¡±


    ¡°Coming,¡± Ji Qinyang wrapped an arm around Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders.


    Xie Meng sighed, ¡°¡­ Don¡¯t always do this sort of sneak attacks.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°?


    Xie Meng, ¡°I¡¯m about to get a heart attack from fright.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. Taking advantage of Zhang Xiujuan not paying attention to them, he leaned into Xie Meng¡¯s ear and whispered, ¡°I can¡¯t help myself.¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s expression was very serious. ¡°It¡¯s torturous to not kiss you.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s radio broke down last week. At that time, Xie Meng was just done with the mid-term exams, and he inadvertently mentioned it to Ji Qinyang. The boy then volunteered to come over and repair it.


    Xie Meng had originally only thought that he was looking for an excuse to come to his home. In the end, Ji Qinyang really took Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s radio apart and fixed it back. After testing it out for a little while, a voice singing and telling the story of <The New Ballad of Mulan> in a Suzhou dialect drifted out from the radio.


    Zhang Xiujuan exclaimed in delight.


    Ji Qinyang turned up the volume a little. Although some static could still be heard, it was much clearer than before.


    Zhang Xiujuan said joyfully, ¡°¡­ I can finally hear it clearly.¡± She could not help scoffing at her own little grandson, ¡°Look at how competent Xiao-Ji is!¡±


    Ji Qinyang too did not stand on courtesy, speaking in a Suzhou dialect, ¡°I want to be Grandma¡¯s grandchild too.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re all my grandchildren, you¡¯re all my darlings.¡± Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s smile was like a blossom. ¡°Quick, quickly go have some red bean soup.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s radio was finally repaired, and so she was reluctant to part with it. Xie Meng then just left the old lady alone to quietly listen to the play, and pulled Ji Qinyang out to have some red bean soup. He gave him a bowl that was filled to the brim, while he only took a piece of chinese pancake.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like sweet things?¡± Ji Qinyang did not pick up a spoon, but drank most of it directly from the bowl.


    Xie Meng shook his head. ¡°You like sweet things?¡±


    ¡°I do.¡± Ji Qinyang smiled. He finished up the rest of the soup, and placed the bowl in the sink.


    ¡°You should buy Grandma a new radio.¡± Ji Qinyang poured out some detergent. ¡°My repair can only fix it for so long. It¡¯s too old, it has to be replaced.¡±


    Xie Meng reached out and pulled up his sleeves for him, his head lowered. ¡°She¡¯s used to using it, and is unwilling to change it. It¡¯s fine as long as she likes it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. His eyes fell on Xie Meng¡¯s attentive profile, and suddenly said, You¡¯re also my darling.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed and kissed him on his temple, ¡°You¡¯re extremely sweet.¡±


    The old lady went to the teahouse in the afternoon to listen to a storytelling session. Xie Meng locked the gate to the courtyard, and Ji Qinyang waited for him by his bicycle.


    ¡°What shall we eat tonight?¡± The boy confirmed again, a little unwilling to give up, ¡°You¡¯re really not going to spend the night over at my house?¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him helplessly.


    Ji Qinyang pouted, ¡°Fine.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed out loud. He reached out and ruffled the back of Ji Qinyang¡¯s head. ¡°You¡­¡±


    It was deep autumn. Ji Qinyang had Xie Meng on the back of his bicycle as he rode past the little bridges and streams. Along the streets were gingko trees, the fan-like yellow leaves covering the ground. The wheels of the bicycle rolled on silently.


    Ji Qinyang was humming a tune that he wrote. As they made a turn, Xie Meng listened to it for a bit then asked, ¡°What about that song?¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice drifted along with the wind, and his amusement could be heard. ¡°Which song?¡±


    Xie Meng tried to recall it, and hummed a few bars, a little unpracticed.


    Ji Qinyang waited for him to stumble through those two lines before answering, ¡°I haven¡¯t finished writing it¡­ Do you like it?¡±


    Xie Meng nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Then it¡¯s all for you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re serious?¡± Xie Meng smiled and asked.


    ¡°In the future, all the songs I write are yours.¡± Ji Qinyang turned his head, looking at Xie Meng, ¡°They¡¯ll all be written for you.¡±


    When they arrived at Ji Qinyang¡¯s home, Mo Suyuna had yet to return. On the table were the washed strawberries, and they were very appetizing-looking.


    ¡°You want something to eat?¡± Ji Qinyang held half a strawberry in his mouth, mumbling as he pointed at it. ¡°Here.¡±


    Xie Meng held his head and leaned over. Kissing each other over and over again, all they could taste was the sweet strawberry juices.


    Ji Qinyang hugged him, refusing to let go. Their lower bodies were pressed against each other, and it was evident that they both had a reaction.


    Xie Meng calmed himself down, speaking quietly, ¡°I won¡¯t eat anymore¡­ What time are your parents coming back?¡±


    ¡°Probably later,¡± Ji Qinyang pulled back a little, but still held on to Xie Meng¡¯s hand tightly. He led him to his music studio, and handwritten scores were scattered next to the piano.


    Xie Meng picked up a few pieces and looked at them.


    ¡°They¡¯re all tadpoles,¡± Xie Meng laughed. ¡°I don¡¯t understand any of it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang pulled him on his lap as he sat on the piano bench, his fingers pointing on the score, ¡°Dodo, miso, fafare~¡±


    Xie Meng followed him earnestly, ¡°Dodo¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang slid his hand into the boy¡¯s clothes, his lips caressing his fair neck.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang mouthed at his earlobe, licking at it. Being ticklish, Xie Meng tried pulling away. ¡°Don¡¯t¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang turned him around. Xie Meng straddled his thighs, and they were in a face-to-face position. The boy hid his face behind a score, and the edges of the paper wrinkled with his grip.


    ¡°What are you doing.¡± Ji Qinyang laughed as he tried to pull the score away. ¡°If it¡¯s torn, who am I going to look for to get it back?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng put his hands down. His face was a little read, but he looked composed. Ji Qinyang leaned forward to kiss the corner of his eyes and the center of his brows.


    The heating was on. Ji Qinyang rolled up Xie Meng¡¯s thin sweater, and he lowered his head to kiss his chest, his tongue teasing his nipples.


    Xie Meng pushed at him, the feeling a little more than he could bear. ¡°Don¡¯t always touch there.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Ji Qinyang smiled. ¡°Is it not comfortable?¡±


    Xie Meng was embarrassed, and did not want to speak. Ji Qinyang then laughed and spoke deliberately, ¡°Seems like it¡¯s comfortable then.¡±


    Behind them was the piano. Unable to dodge him, Xie Meng could only half-lean against it.


    Ji Qinyang kissed him again for a while, and could not help but reach out and pull the zipper of Xie Meng¡¯s pants down.


    The boy¡¯s half-hard member was trapped in his underwear, and the exposed shape and colour were very pretty. Xie Meng unconsciously lifted his hand up to cover it, but was lightly swatted away by Ji Qinyang.


    Thinking about his own experiences in masturbation, Ji Qinyang gave Xie Meng a handjob. The latter clutched at his shoulders, the flush on his face deepening.


    Ji Qinyang watched the boy¡¯s expression intensely. His hand never stopped moving, and his voice was hoarse, ¡°I want to use my mouth¡­ Can I?¡±


    Xie Meng shuddered. Before Ji Qinyang could react, he already orgasmed.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang muttered, ¡°What a pity¡­¡±


    Towards Ji Qinyang¡¯s regret, Xie Meng hardly knew how he should react to it. Flustered, he picked up some tissues and wiped himself clean. Only when he accidentally bumped into the area between Ji Qinyang¡¯s legs did he discover that he was still hard.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Xie Meng took in a breath. ¡°I¡¯ll help you¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. Pulling Xie Meng¡¯s hand behind him, he wrapped his arms around him, ¡°We¡¯ll forget it this time.¡±


    Xie Meng felt guilty. ¡°But¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang kissed him on his lips. ¡°Next time, can you blow me?¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    When Mo Suyuan returned, Ji Qinyang was teaching Xie Meng to recognise the notes on the score. She secretly opened the door, and the two boys never noticed her, huddling together as they whispered to each other.


    Mo Suyuan walked lightly towards Ji Qinyang¡¯s back, and Xie Meng saw her as soon as he looked up.


    Mo Suyuan raised a finger, shushing him, then reached her hands out to cover her son¡¯s eyes.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Mo Suyuan pitched her voice up girlishly, ¡°Guess what Mama is wearing today~¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. He pulled Mo Suyuan¡¯s hands down, ¡°You look good no matter what you wear.¡±


    Xie Meng stood aside, greeting her a little reservedly. ¡°Hello Auntie.¡±


    Mo Suyuan did not seem to have the temperament of an elder at all. She gave a friendly pat on Xie Meng¡¯s shoulder, joking, ¡°This is definitely my son¡¯s ¡®boyfriend¡¯, so good looking~¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    It was rare that a friend of her son would stay for dinner. Mo Suyuan wished she could prepare a Manchu-Han Imperial Feast, and from start till end, Xie Meng¡¯s bowl was never empty.


    Halfway through the meal, Mo Suyuan remembered something. ¡°Today, when I was fishing with your dad, we bumped into Teacher Wu. He asked if you¡¯ve read the recommendation letter from Zhongyin.¡±


    Xie Meng had never heard Ji Qinyang mention anything about Zhongyin. His hands paused, and he turned to look at Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°I¡¯ve read it.¡± Ji Qinyang ladled a bowl of soup and passed it to Xie Meng. ¡°I¡¯m still considering it.¡±


    ¡°This is a good opportunity,¡± Ji Shanrong said. ¡°Teacher Wu has already helped you sign up for this summer¡¯s music theory exam. Work hard.¡±


    Ji Qinyang had no objections about it. He picked more food for Xie Meng, only to find him holding his bowl in a daze.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Ji Qinyang nudged him.


    Xie Meng regained his senses, ¡°You¡¯re¡­ planning on studying in Beijing?¡±


    Ji Qinyang replied casually, ¡°I haven¡¯t decided yet, maybe.¡±


    Xie Meng opened his mouth. He ate a mouthful of rice, not knowing what to say.


    ¡°What about you, Xie Meng?¡± Mo Suyuan asked in warm concern, ¡°Where are you planning on studying?¡±


    ¡°Ma, you don¡¯t even have to ask.¡± Ji Qinyang laughed, ¡°Of course he¡¯s coming with me to¡­¡±


    ¡°Shanghai.¡± Xie Meng calmly interrupted him. He averted his eyes, deliberately avoiding Ji Qinyang¡¯s astonished expression, and spoke slowly, ¡°I plan on studying in Shanghai.¡±


    The street lights along Shantang Street were few and far. Ji Qinyang pushed his bicycle, walking silently next to Xie Meng. The light and shadows came and went, blurring their expressions like it was an old-fashioned movie.


    ¡°Are you angry with me for not telling you about Zhongyin?¡± In the dark, Ji Qinyang suddenly spoke up. Only when they were about to approach the next streetlight did he hear Xie Meng sigh.


    ¡°No.¡± Xie Meng stood under the streetlight, a glow cast upon his face. The boy¡¯s face was gentle, ¡°I¡¯m only a little surprised¡­¡±


    He deliberated, ¡°I¡¯m very happy for you that you are able to go to Zhongyin. Really, it¡¯s terrific.¡±


    Ji Qinyang frowned, ¡°But you don¡¯t want to go to Beijing.¡±


    Xie Meng bit his lip. He avoided Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes, trying to speak as calmly as possible, ¡°Even if I don¡¯t go to Beijing, there wouldn¡¯t be any changes¡­¡±


    ¡°You want to be in a long-distance relationship with me?¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s tone was a little rushed, icy and sharp. ¡°Or, do you think that it¡¯s fine if we break up because of the distance?¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s eyes widened, his expression complicated and angry. He opened his mouth, refuting, ¡°What are you saying¡­?!¡±


    ¡°You never tell me anything, and I also don¡¯t know what you¡¯re thinking.¡± Ji Qinyang stared at his face, ¡°I¡¯m just like a hot-headed fool.¡±


    Xie Meng clenched his fist. He seemed to be holding himself back, and spoke coldly after a moment, ¡°Then, did you tell me about going to Zhongyin? You would rather tell Qi Fei, then talk to me about it!¡±


    The lane was empty and quiet, and the light from the streetlamp scattered across Ji Qinyang¡¯s feet. He turned his face away, his voice stiff, ¡°I don¡¯t want to quarrel with you.¡±


    Xie Meng was silent. He watched as Ji Qinyang swung his leg over his bicycle. Supporting himself on one foot, the boy leaned over slightly, and placed a somewhat forceful kiss on his brow bone.


    ¡°I¡¯m going back,¡± Ji Qinyang said lowly. ¡°I¡¯ll see you tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    For a long time afterwards, Xie Meng would always dream about Ji Qinyang¡¯s back as he rode away on his bicycle. He stood under the gradually dimming street light, his head turned, watching him. The boy rode very slowly, his figure flashing amidst the lights. He did not turn back, but yet looked reluctant to leave.


    The next day when Xie Meng woke up, he discovered that he had overslept. Groaning with regret, he slowly sat up to find something falling out from his blanket.


    Baffled, Xie Meng held the thermometer in his hand.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± Zhang Xiujuan entered. She was wearing a pair of reading glasses, and reached out to him. ¡°Give it to me.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng obediently handed it over.


    The old lady¡¯s glasses balanced on the bridge of her nose. Holding the thermometer at a slight distance, she looked at it carefully for a long time. ¡°It¡¯s nearly 39?C.¡±


    She gestured, ¡°Do you want to go to the hospital?¡±


    Only then did Xie Meng feel dizzy. Pulling at his hair, he coughed. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll be fine after taking some medicine.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan did not nag, only saying, ¡°I¡¯ve applied for 3 hours of leave for you. Have some porridge first.¡±


    After freshening up and having porridge, Xie Meng felt a little better. He took two cold tablets, and found out that it was raining outside only when he was prepared to leave.


    The moment he opened the door, the rain was nearly blown onto Xie Meng¡¯s face. The boy shivered before thinking to turn around and pick up an umbrella.


    ¡°An autumn rain and a cold.¡± Zhang Xiujuan changed her shoes and followed behind him, ¡°I¡¯ll walk you to the bus stop.¡±


    The old lady had to carry an umbrella. Xie Meng failed to talk her out of it, and could only hunch over as much as possible. By the time they reached the bus stop, the back of his shirt was wet.


    Zhang Xiujuan wiped him off as she sighed, ¡°Grandma is really old¡­ You¡¯re so much taller than me now.¡±


    Xie Meng held her hand, coughing immediately once he opened his mouth.


    ¡°You should go back quickly,¡± Xie Meng¡¯s voice was hoarse. ¡°It¡¯s cold outside, and the ground is slippery. Don¡¯t fall.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan smiled, ¡°I should be the one telling you that.¡±


    She looked outside the bus stop, nudging her grandson lightly, ¡°The bus is here, quick, get on.¡±


    After getting onto the bus, Xie Meng stood by the window, and Zhang Xiujuan waved at him. When the bus drove off into the distance, he could still see the old lady¡¯s slightly bowed figure.


    When Xie Meng arrived at school, the second lesson of the day had just finished. He bumped into Zhuo Xiaoyuan outside the door of Class 3, and it took him a long while before he reacted.


    ¡°Your fever seems very high.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan frowned, ¡°Didn¡¯t you apply for leave?¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s head was a little stuffy. ¡°¡­ Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°The classes have already been split. Class 3 and Class 6 have been divided by the science stream and the arts stream. You¡¯re lucky that you don¡¯t have to move, your seat hasn¡¯t changed.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng looked confused, and only a moment later did he remember to ask, ¡°What about Ji Qinyang?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s gone to Class 6. He¡¯s in the arts stream. Qi Fei and Zhang Ganggang went there too. You weren¡¯t here for the first two classes, if not I would have watched a play of people bidding each other farewell on a long trip.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan helped Xie Meng carry his bag. ¡°You¡¯ll have to wait till the afternoon if you want to express your sympathy. They have three classes in a row of memorising ancient Chinese texts. If you go, Zhang Ganggang¡¯s Historical Records by Sima Qian would definitely turn into Zhu Geliang¡¯s Chu Shi Biao.¡±


    Xie Meng followed Zhuo Xiaoyuan, returning to his seat in a state of muddledness. His mind was filled with nothing but glue named Ji Qinyang.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked at him in worry. ¡°Are you really ok? Do you want to apply for a day¡¯s leave?¡±


    Xie Meng waved him off. His throat was so painful he could hardly speak. Half the classmates around him were from Class 6, most of them boys, and unfamiliar looking.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan sat next to him. ¡°You sure you¡¯re ok?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Xie Meng coughed. He saw Maitreya coming in with a pile of papers. The bell for the third class had already rung.


    Ji Qinyang finished writing the ancient test half an hour ago. Under his table, he sent a text to Xie Meng, but did not get a reply even after waiting for a long time.


    The arts teachers were very indulgent towards him, mainly because of his excellent scores. As long as he did not affect anyone else, Ji Qinyang was allowed to do whatever he wanted in class.


    Finally managing to wait till the class ended, Ji Qinyang headed directly over to Class 3 only to find the door closed. Glancing through the window, the expression on his face was a little ugly.


    Zhang Ganggang who had followed him leaned on the windowsill. ¡°They¡¯re doing a test? It¡¯ll take at least two classes then¡­ Is Xie Meng here yet?¡±


    Ji Qinyang frowned, and did not answer Zhang Ganggang. His eyes were glued at Xie Meng who was working on his paper. The boy had his fist in front of his mouth, and he looked like he was coughing.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the dean¡¯s office.¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly said, ¡°Watch over Xie Meng from here. If there¡¯s anything, call me on my cell.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was shocked. ¡°What are you going to do there¡­ Hey, don¡¯t go!¡±


    Xie Meng covered his mouth, trying his best to suppress his cough. Because of his high fever, his test was blurry, and with his muddled mind, he did not know what he had written.


    When doing the geometry questions, Zhuo Xiaoyuan nudged at him. Xie Meng slowly raised his head to see Ji Qinyang carrying his bag standing in front of his table expressionlessly.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng, ¡°?


    Ji Qinyang reached out and placed his palm on his forehead. He commanded him firmly, ¡°Stand up.¡±


    It took Xie Meng a moment before he made a questioning sound.


    Ji Qinyang pulled the pen and paper away from the boy. Pulling the desk away, he packed everything into his bag. Turning around, he saw Xie Meng obediently putting his coat on.


    ¡°Why did you wear so little?¡± Ji Qinyang reproached him. He took off his coat and placed it around Xie Meng, tugging it over him and fastening the buttons.


    Xie Meng sniffed, and his voice was like a buzz, ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang patted him on his head, laughing.


    Maitreya was standing at the door, waving the two leave forms in his hand, ¡°Aren¡¯t you ashamed that your teacher have to help you submit your own leave form?¡±


    ¡°Then you can give it to Zhang Ganggang.¡± Ji Qinyang carried two bags with one hand as he supported Xie Meng with the other. He called out to Zhang Ganggang, ¡°We¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang hurriedly nodded. ¡°All right all right, be careful on your way back, we¡¯ll come after school!¡±


    ¡°Why are you coming.¡± Ji Qinyang spoke bluntly, ¡°Why would we need so many people at a place like the hospital? It¡¯s enough for me to accompany him.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang was very hurt, and he looked at Xie Meng with eyes wide open.


    Xie Meng coughed, barely managing to wave at him, ¡°You really don¡¯t have to come¡­ I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Go back to class,¡± Ji Qinyang said impatiently. ¡°It¡¯s not a parting of life and death, what are you feeling upset about?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    There were quite a lot of people in the hospital Ji Qinyang bought a mask for Xie Meng, and when the boy put it on, only his black, glimmering eyes were revealed.


    Ji Qinyang could not help turning back to look at him when he was filling up the registration form. Finally, he could not hold himself back anymore. Taking the opportunity when no one was paying attention to them, he hugged Xie Meng and kissed him on the lips through the mask.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°You look like a puppy.¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him, his voice muffled, ¡°¡­ You¡¯re the puppy.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. He rubbed his nose against Xie Meng¡¯s, holding him in him arms.


    Registering to see a doctor, Xie Meng then did a blood test. Ji Qinyang ran downstairs to get his medicine. The doctor looked at the test results and suggested that he get an IV drip. The two found an empty spot and waited for the nurse to come, then Ji Qinyang went to borrow a blanket to cushion him under his body.


    ¡°Do you want something to eat?¡± Ji Qinyang stared at the nurse injecting Xie Meng. He smiled at her, and the lady blushed.


    Covered with Ji Qinyang¡¯s coat, Xie Meng looked at the clock on the wall gloomily. ¡°It¡¯s already past 12¡­ Are you hungry?¡±


    Ji Qinyang pulled the coat up on him. ¡°I¡¯ll go buy some porridge. You can take a nap first.¡±


    When Xie Meng was about to groggily fall asleep, he felt someone place something warm under his hands. Opening his eyes, he saw Ji Qinyang with his sleeves rolled up, blanching the bowl and cutlery with boiling water.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± Ji Qinyang looked at him. The boy reached out and touched his forehead. ¡°Why are you still so warm?¡±


    Xie Meng turned his head around. In his hands was a small electric hot-water bottle with a drawing of Spongebob Squarepants on it.


    ¡°Do you feel warmer?¡± Ji Qinyang poured the plain porridge into the bowl. Stirring it, he scooped a spoonful and held it to Xie Meng¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Have you eaten¡­?¡± Xie Meng asked, muffled, porridge still in his mouth.


    ¡°Finish it up quickly, I¡¯ll eat the rest.¡±


    Xie Meng quickly took a few more mouthfuls before shaking his head, ¡°I don¡¯t want anymore, you have it.¡±


    Ji Qinyang confirmed that he really could not eat anymore before finishing up the bowl. Pouring a cup of water for Xie Meng, he watched him eat his medicine before taking the bowl and cutlery to the sink.


    ¡°Sleep a little while more.¡± Ji Qinyang came back, wiping the water droplets from his hands. Unconsciously, he reached out to check Xie Meng¡¯s temperature, only to remember that he had just washed his hands, and so pulled his hand back.


    Xie Meng grabbed him. ¡°Don¡¯t run around here and there. Take a rest.¡±


    Ji Qinyang agreed with him. He did not pull his hand back, and just took a seat next to him.


    The drops from the IV drip were not very fast. Ji Qinyang looked up at it, carefully rubbing around the needle on the back of Xie Meng¡¯s hand.


    ¡°How warm.¡± Xie Meng suddenly spoke with his eyes closed.


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°You¡¯re talking about the IV?¡±


    ¡°Mn. It¡¯s been warmed up by you.¡± Xie Meng smiled at him. ¡°My veins, my blood vessels, my muscles.¡± The boy pointed at his heart, ¡°Also, right here. They¡¯re all very warm.¡±


    Ji Qinyang could not help laughing, ¡°You¡¯re very mushy.¡±


    Xie Meng spoke helplessly, ¡°I¡¯m also a male. How can I not know how to say such sweet things?¡±


    Ji Qinyang joked, ¡°If you¡¯re really so touched, join me in Beijing?¡±


    Xie Meng did not say anything. Ji Qinyang held his hand without the needle, ¡°Why not, let¡¯s arm wrestle. If I lose, I¡¯ll let you go to Shanghai. If I win, we¡¯ll go to Beijing together. How about that?¡±


    Xie Meng frowned, ¡°¡­ Are you bullying an invalid?¡±


    Ji Qinyang said shamelessly, ¡°I have no choice. You¡¯re so impressive, if I don¡¯t take advantage of this opportunity, how will I win?¡±


    Xie Meng bit his lip. He looked at Ji Qinyang, who surprisingly did not have a smile on his face, but instead had his hand raised with a serious expression.


    ¡°I¡¯ll count to 3.¡± Ji Qinyang looked at him earnestly, ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to let me win.¡±


    At the start, the two of them, just like their first time, were a match for each other. Xie Meng stared at Ji Qinyang¡¯s wrist, focused, trying his best to not let his hand be pressed down. As they were in a stalemate, Ji Qinyang suddenly asked, ¡°Are you refusing to go to Beijing because you can¡¯t leave Grandma behind?¡±


    Xie Meng looked up in surprise. He felt his wrist relaxed, and the back of Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand was on the chair.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng, ¡°You¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang clicked his tongue remorsefully. ¡°If I knew I wouldn¡¯t have said anything. As expected, I needed to concentrate.¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s face was blank for a moment.


    Ji Qinyang held his head, looking into Xie Meng¡¯s eyes and smiling, ¡°Seems like I can only apply for Shangyin now.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang took out his headphones from his bag and placed them on Xie Meng¡¯s head.


    ¡°Go to sleep.¡± He kissed him on the forehead, ¡°I¡¯ll be here with you.¡±


    When the nurse came to remove the needle, the sky had already turned dark. Xie Meng gave Zhang Xiujuan a call, and also applied for leave tomorrow afternoon with Maitreya.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s coat was still covering Xie Meng. The boy stuck both his hands in his pockets, standing by the side and looking at him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll accompany you tomorrow afternoon.¡± Ji Qinyang touched Xie Meng¡¯s face, ¡°Why do I feel like you¡¯ve lost weight again?¡±


    Xie Meng grabbed his hand and laughed, ¡°You¡¯re exaggerating so much¡­ I feel so much better now.¡±


    Ji Qinyang opened his arms and embraced him.


    Xie Meng placed his chin in the burrow of his neck. Because he was wearing too many clothes, he was unable to lift his hands up. ¡°¡­ Then what about the recommendation letter from Zhongyin?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only a letter of recommendation. I can only reply it in the first semester of our third year in high school, and I first have to take the music theory exam in the school break during our second year.¡± Ji Qinyang laughed quietly in Xie Meng¡¯s ear. ¡°I¡¯ve applied to Shangyin as well. It¡¯s good to always have another opportunity.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. Ji Qinyang held him, standing by the road and waiting for a taxi. Many of the passersby looked in their direction, but Ji Qinyang looked uncaring, hugging onto Xie Meng as he hummed a tune.


    Xie Meng was entirely buried in Ji Qinyang¡¯s arms. He suddenly said something, and the other person laughed. Ji Qinyang¡¯s chin rested on his head as he coaxed him, ¡°You said it so softly, how could I have heard it clearly?¡±


    ¡°¡­ If you couldn¡¯t hear it clearly then forget it.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so petty.¡± Ji Qinyang laughed and pretended to complain. He held Xie Meng¡¯s face, their foreheads against each other¡¯s, and in their eyes were only each other.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    Finals were coming up soon after the classes were separated. Class 3 and Class 6 happened to be located in the same place, only on different floors. Ji Qinyang could leave early almost everyday, and he would go to the second floor to wait for Xie Meng.


    After seeing him for a few times, Zhuo Xiaoyuan got accustomed to it. One day, he really could not help but poke fun at this, ¡°You guys are really an old couple. Aren¡¯t you sick of doing this every day?¡±


    The finals were spread over three days. On the first day, they had their Chinese exam in the morning and maths in the afternoon. Ji Qinyang handed his papers in early, and leaned against the wall next to the door of Class 3 with his headphones on.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was scornful when he saw him.


    ¡°I¡¯m also not waiting for you,¡± Ji Qinyang pulled his headphones down around his neck. He saw Xie Meng walking out. The boy was wearing a white, down jacket, his eyebrows sharp and angled, his eyes black and bright.


    ¡°How was your exam?¡± Xie Meng smiled, ruffling the back of Ji Qinyang¡¯s hair.


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°Didn¡¯t we say that you can¡¯t ask curve fodders such a question?¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him. ¡°Speaking as though you¡¯re one.¡±


    ¡°I am,¡± Ji Qinyang sprawled lazily onto Xie Meng¡¯s back. ¡°It¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know how bad I am at maths.¡±


    Ji Qinyang rode the bicycle while Xie Meng sat behind, drinking his warm milk. When he stopped at the traffic light, Ji Qinyang turned to look at him.


    ¡°Give me a taste.¡±


    Xie Meng stood up and put the straw to his mouth.


    Ji Qinyang took a sip just like that. ¡°It¡¯s not sweet?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the original flavour,¡± Xie Meng smiled. He suddenly lowered his head and kissed Ji Qinyang¡¯s lips. ¡°Here¡¯s a little sugar for you.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan was basking under the sun in the courtyard. She opened her eyes when Xie Meng returned, ¡°Xiao-Ji is here too.¡±


    Ji Qinyang greeted her by calling her grandma, and Zhang Xiujuan smiled, ¡°My dear grandson.¡±


    Xie Meng went into the house to help the old lady take her radio out, and found another blanket.


    ¡°Don¡¯t stay out in the sun for too long,¡± Xie Meng covered Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s legs. ¡°Call me when you¡¯re feeling cold.¡±


    These days, Zhang Xiujuan had been feeling a lot more tired. She had went to the hospital for a check up, and the doctor said that she was just getting old, but there were no specific symptoms.


    In their old age, people would get weaker.


    Xie Meng dared not think too much about it, and only tried to accompany her as much as possible.


    Ji Qinyang only left after dinner. Xie Meng walked him to the entrance of the alley, and the two of them walked next to each other hand in hand.


    Xie Meng¡¯s palm was damp and warm. At first, it was only a normal hand-holding, but later, Ji Qinyang¡¯s fingers were interlocked with his. The grip was too tight, and a little painful, but neither let go.


    Ji Qinyang stopped at the entrance of the alley. ¡°You should go back first.¡±


    Xie Meng acknowledged it, but continued holding hands.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just throw away the recommendation from Zhongyin,¡± Xie Meng suddenly said. ¡°It¡¯s a pity not to go if you actually get in.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. He looked at Xie Meng, pulling him into his arms with a slight force.


    After the three days of examinations, the rankings were announced. A few more papers were added to their homework for the winter break. As the Spring Festival was later than usual, Zhang Ganggang had grumbled about this for quite a few days.


    ¡°Only children like the Spring Festival,¡± Qi Fei ridiculed him. ¡°How old do you think you are?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang objected, ¡°I¡¯ll get red packets as long as I¡¯m not married. Why wouldn¡¯t Spring Festival be good?¡±


    Qi Fei no longer received red packets since a few years ago. Not only did he not get them, he still needed to take care of children during every festival. As such, he was completely uninterested in the Spring Festival.


    On the other hand, Zhuo Xiaoyuan and Xie Meng were also unable to experience the trouble of having too many family members. Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s parents were working overseas, and Zhuo Jinjin had been sick for so many years. Every year was like a gift, and Zhuo Xiaoyuan treasured each day as though it was stolen.


    ¡°How has Jinjin been recently?¡± Ji Qinyang asked.


    ¡°A few days before the exams, she had been hospitalized. She¡¯s just came home, and should be able to spend the New Year at home.¡±


    Xie Meng patted his shoulder with encouragement.


    ¡°How¡¯s your grandmother?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan asked.


    Xie Meng was calm. ¡°She¡¯s still the same.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan nodded. He smiled, his angled eyes looking very rakish. ¡°With less people, the New Year would also be less troublesome. You don¡¯t have to prepare as many things, and don¡¯t have to worry about it.¡±


    They exchanged their plans, and Ji Qinyang was the only one who might be travelling abroad for the New Year.


    ¡°It¡¯s not confirmed yet,¡± Ji Qinyang sat on Xie Meng¡¯s seat, his smile unconcerned. ¡°My mother¡¯s the one who wants to go, I don¡¯t really care about it.¡±


    Qi Fei quipped, ¡°Your mother and father are really just a pair of celestial lovers. You¡¯re superfluous.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was not angry, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s why I also don¡¯t want to go. I don¡¯t know what I can do when they¡¯re having fun.¡±


    ¡°Then come over to my place for the New Year.¡± Zhang Ganggang would always be the type of person who loved having the bustle of a crowd. ¡°My mother had mentioned many times to bring my friends home, but none of you have ever given me any face¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang glanced at Xie Meng, smiling, ¡°We¡¯ll see. In any case, I won¡¯t be spending it alone.¡±


    It snowed before the Spring Festival. Xie Meng woke up to find that the courtyard had turned white. He huffed a breath, returning back to his room to put on his cotton jacket before doing his martial arts practice.


    Zhang Xiujuan stood under the eaves with a mug, watching her grandson train as she chatted with him.


    ¡°Go to the market later, I want a chicken.¡±


    Xie Meng exerted pressure with his foreleg, turning with a graceful flow. The snow on the ground was swept around, leaving a thin layer behind. ¡°Anything else?¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan listed everything out. ¡°Cakes, dates, flour¡­ Get some fried snacks as well. Oh, don¡¯t forget about candy too.¡±


    Xie Meng threw his fists into the air, a force underlying the gentleness. ¡°We won¡¯t have any guests, there¡¯s no need to waste money on things like fried snacks.¡±


    ¡°How will we not have guests? What if Xiao-Ji comes visit us?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng returned to a relaxed position. He wanted to tell the old lady that Ji Qinyang might have gone overseas already, but he decided not to do so. He went into the house to take some money, ¡°I¡¯ll go buy them. It¡¯s very cold outside, don¡¯t bask under the sun.¡±


    There were not many people in the market. Many people had returned back to their hometown because of the Spring Festival. After buying the chicken, Xie Meng went to the snack shop. He grabbed some melon seeds, hawthorn and pork jerky, and even bought some smelly tofu from the stall on the bridge.


    ¡°Happy New Year,¡± The hawker selling smelly tofu greeted him cheerily.


    Xie Meng exchanged his money for a bowl. ¡°Happy New Year,¡± he said.


    Just as Xie Meng was feeling puzzled that the gate to the courtyard was not shut, he saw a familiar bicycle parked by the side. Ji Qinyang was rolling his sleeves, walking out, and he smiled lazily when he saw Xie Meng.


    ¡°You¡¯ve bought everything?¡± The boy stepped forward and took the things from his hands with a very natural movement. He even looked inside the bags, ¡°Yo, you bought smelly tofu as well?¡±


    Xie Meng was a little incredulous looking at him. ¡°¡­ You didn¡¯t go overseas?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Ji Qinyang glossed over it, ¡°You also know how my parents are like. I don¡¯t want to be a gooseberry.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang brought the chicken to the kitchen. When he came back out, Xie Meng was still standing there.


    Ji Qinyang waved his hand in front of his eyes. ¡°Are you so happy you¡¯ve turned into an idiot?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ Do you want some candy?¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°You think I¡¯m Zhang Ganggang?¡±


    Xie Meng was not listening to him, clumsily piling the snacks on the table. ¡°I¡¯ve bought hawthorn, melon seeds, pork jerky as well as some plum candy¡­ What would you like?¡±


    Ji Qinyang suddenly reached out and hugged Xie Meng fiercely.


    Xie Meng, ¡°?


    Ji Qinyang turned his face and kissed the boy on his cheek. ¡°I¡¯ll love you even more in the new year.¡±


    Hugging him, Xie Meng was silent for a moment before whispering, ¡°Me too.¡±


    Kneading the dough, stuffing, rolling, and making dumplings, Xie Meng then removed the seeds from the cooked dates. Choosing three, he stuffed them into the dumplings, and Ji Qinyang laughed when he saw it.


    Xie Meng was a little embarrassed. ¡°One for each of us, it¡¯s good luck for the new year.¡±


    The three people prepared a table full of dishes. Ji Qinyang chopped the chicken up, showing off and preparing two dishes. Zhang Xiujuan was happy, and drank a little liquor. The radio was by their side, and an opera was playing.


    Ji Qinyang had long stopped the habit of watching the Spring Festival Gala punctually at 8pm. When Xie Meng turned on the television, he still did not recall about it.


    ¡°Grandma likes it.¡± Xie Meng switched over to the Central channel. Zhang Xiujuan switched off the radio and watched the TV attentively.


    ¡°Right,¡± The old lady suddenly clapped her hands together. Rummaging around in her pockets for a while, she retrieved two red packets. ¡°One each.¡±


    She smiled, ¡°Go outside and watch the fireworks, there¡¯s no need to accompany an old lady like me.¡±


    Xie Meng took a large scarf, wrapping one end around him and the other around Ji Qinyang. The two of them walked to Shantang Street. The snow had not melted away, and when stepping on it, crunching sounds could be heard.


    On the night of the New Year¡¯s Eve, Sucheng was quiet and cold. Other than a few children coming out to set off fireworks, there were barely anyone around.


    Red lanterns were hung along both sides of the river, and the lights were reflected upon the water. Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng sat next to each other on the pier, watching the children release fireworks.


    ¡°Do you want to play with one?¡± Ji Qinyang asked with a smile.


    Xie Meng took out a few sparklers from somewhere. ¡°Let¡¯s just play with this.¡±


    They asked to borrow the fire from the children, and crouched together and lit their sparklers. The heat from the sparklers was not high, and Xie Meng cupped his hand around it, looking as though he was holding fireworks in his hand.


    The sparks highlighted Ji Qinyang¡¯s delicate features. He lowered his head, quietly looking at Xie Meng.


    ¡°This is our last stick.¡± Xie Meng looked up and met Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes, ¡°¡­ You don¡¯t want it?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll just watch you light it.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled as well. He lit the last sparkler, then watched the sparks slowly burn out.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡± Xie Meng stood up and adjusted the scarf. He lowered his head, pressing his lips onto Ji Qinyang¡¯s forehead, ¡°Happy New Year.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not stand up immediately. He took Xie Meng¡¯s hand, and the latter felt something hard in his hand.


    ¡°¡­ What?¡± Xie Meng turned his wrist over, and Ji Qinyang slowly released his hand as he stood up.


    Xie Meng looked down to see a pair of silver earrings in his palm.


    Ji Qinyang reached out and touched his earlobe. ¡°Want to get a piercing?¡±


    In the second semester of their second year, Ji Qinyang started attending music theory classes in preparation for his arts degree. As for the culture classes, he was not as anxious as his other classmates.


    Xie Meng had signed up for a cram school outside of the school. Zhang Ganggang also wanted to join in, but when he went in, he found Han Dong was there too.


    ¡°A curve wrecker¡¯s life is also very lonely,¡± Han Dong gave an excuse. ¡°With nothing to do, I can only study more.¡±


    Because Zhang Ganggang was in the S High group chat, whenever he met S High students in real life, he would instinctively be a little apprehensive.


    Han Dong glanced at him expressionlessly.


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Han Dong nodded. ¡°Hello.¡±


    With good manners, Zhang Ganggang sat down next to him. ¡°H-hello¡­¡±


    Xie Meng introduced the both of them to each other. ¡°Han Dong knows Rourou. Zhang Ganggang, if you have any questions, you can just ask him.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Real, really?!¡±


    Han Dong¡¯s attitude was reserved, and it took him a moment before he acknowledged it faintly.


    Xie Meng looked at him strangely.


    ¡°How, how does Rourou look like?¡± Zhang Ganggang cautiously asked him, full of anticipation.


    Han Dong raised his brow, drawling, ¡°Short, black hair.¡±


    ¡°Oh, short hair¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang was a little disappointed.


    Han Dong sneered. ¡°Why? You don¡¯t like short hair?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang hurriedly denied it. ¡°Of course not¡­ It, it¡¯s just different from what I imagined.¡± He observed Han Dong¡¯s expression, and spoke a little placatingly, ¡°Actually, short hair is pretty nice too¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Han Dong was non-committal. ¡°You like it?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang hesitated. ¡°I¡­¡±


    Han Dong frowned, snorting impatiently, ¡°Do you like it or not?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang mustered up his courage and glared at him. ¡°¡­¡±


    Han Dong narrowed his eyes back.


    ¡°¡­ I like it.¡± Zhang Ganggang finally humiliatingly gave in under Han Dong¡¯s ¡°you¡¯ll die if you say you dislike it¡± stare.


    Ji Qinyang was in a cafe near the cram school. He sent a text to Xie Meng, then ordered a cup of milk to takeaway at the counter. When Xie Meng came out, he saw the boy waving the plastic bag at him.


    ¡°How long have you been waiting?¡± Xie Meng took the milk. He held Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand, then leaned in and stroked his forehead.


    Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°I didn¡¯t wait that long.¡± He looked behind Xie Meng, and Han Dong nodded at him expressionlessly.


    ¡°Hello.¡±


    ¡°Hi,¡± Ji Qinyang greeted.


    Zhang Ganggang sniffed, grumbling, ¡°You guys are really very close¡­ There¡¯s no one waiting for me at all.¡±


    Han Dong looked down at him. ¡°Want me to send you back?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was a little frightened. ¡°No, no need¡­¡±


    Han Dong stared at him expressionlessly.


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang hunched over, speaking in a feeble tone, ¡°All, all right¡­ Sorry to bother you.¡±


    Xie Meng was speechless. He watched as Zhang Ganggang took his own sweet time walking to Han Dong¡¯s car, and glanced at the person who started all these disapprovingly. ¡°Don¡¯t bully him too much. What if he cries?¡±


    ¡°Just let him cry then.¡± In a good mood, Han Dong tucked his scarf into his coat. His eyes fell indifferently onto Xie Meng¡¯s earlobe, and he smiled. ¡°The two of you.¡±


    He pointed at Ji Qinyang. ¡°Don¡¯t be too obvious about it.¡±

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    Warning: Slight NSFW


    For students, the most painful thing was to analyze the exam papers after the midterms. Since the start of their second year in high school, everyone¡¯s results were no longer contained within the school, but released to the entire city and province.


    Almost all of Xie Meng¡¯s science exams were the models the teachers used for the analysis. Therefore, he could only share a desk with Zhuo Xiaoyuan and looked at the same paper.


    ¡°How do you do this question?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan was recalculating the question he did wrongly, ¡°I clearly used the correct formula.¡±


    Xie Meng took the paper over. ¡°Your order is wrong, you have to solve the part in the brackets first.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked down and waited for him to finish solving it. He suddenly whispered, ¡°Your ear stud¡­ Is it from Ji Qinyang?¡±


    Instinctively, Xie Meng covered his earlobe and looked up at Zhuo Xiaoyuan.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you can¡¯t see it at all from a distance,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s expression was aloof. ¡°Also, you¡¯re a good student. Teachers are not worried about you at all.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng slowly put his hand down. ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan pursed his lips scornfully, ¡°When did your relationship start?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it, ¡°It¡¯s been over a year.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan clicked his tongue, ¡°No wonder he was so enthusiastic about that scum then. Seems like he himself is not much better.¡±


    Xie Meng frowned, ¡°I¡¯m a willing party, he didn¡¯t force me.¡±


    ¡°Fine, I know now, don¡¯t show your love off,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked disdainful. He was silent for a bit, before turning his face away and speaking stiffly, ¡°If he dares to force you, I¡¯ll be the first in line to beat him up.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed out loud. He thought about it for a while, and could only thank him.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan ignored him.


    After a long silence, Xie Meng heard the boy speak awkwardly, ¡°Didn¡¯t he used to have quite a lot of girlfriends¡­ You have to be more careful.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan frowned and nagged, ¡°If he goes back to his playboy ways, you shouldn¡¯t tolerate it. You must first¡­¡±


    ¡°Then¡­¡±


    ¡°Finally¡­¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± When they were about to reach the school gate, Ji Qinyang confirmed once again, ¡°You were listening to this the entire class?¡±


    Xie Meng sighed. ¡°What else could I do? Cover his mouth and don¡¯t let him continue?¡±


    Ji Qinyang had a meaningful expression on his face, ¡°¡­ He seems to know quite a bit about all these.¡±


    Xie Meng too felt complicated, ¡°I feel like I have another member in my family.¡±


    Ji Qinyang threw an arm over his shoulder. ¡°You have many additional members in your family.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°?


    Ji Qinyang rubbed his nose. ¡°Qi Fei realised it too.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng asked, ¡°Does Zhang Ganggang know?¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed wickedly, ¡°With his IQ, it¡¯s going to be a little difficult.¡±


    Xie Meng could not help but laugh as well. Ji Qinyang watched him, and suddenly leaned over to kiss his lips.


    ¡°¡­ We¡¯re still in school.¡± Xie Meng pushed his forehead away. He looked resigned, but he did not look reproachful.


    Not bothered, Ji Qinyang hung entirely off Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders. He took off the headphones around his neck and placed it on Xie Meng¡¯s head, and the melody Xie Meng was starting to get familiar with now had new lyrics added to it. Xie Meng listened to it for a while before turning to look at Ji Qinyang, ¡°You haven¡¯t finished writing it?¡±


    Ji Qinyang hummed along with the rhythm. With a serious expression, he raised his brow, ¡°Good things have to take their time.¡±


    After Mangzhong, the weather began to warm up. The summers of Suzhou were rainy with little wind. That afternoon, the sun was fierce, enveloping the greenery on the school grounds.


    Xie Meng checked over his exam papers, then looked out of the window. The fans in the classroom spun, causing the dry, warm air to shift. Cicadas could be faintly heard.


    After the last paper, Zhuo Xiaoyuan sprawled across his desk as though he had collapsed. Just as Xie Meng finished packing his bag, he saw Ji Qinyang standing at the backdoor.


    ¡°Coming here everyday to abuse dogs1,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan said gloomily, holding his head in his arms. ¡°You guys are really too much¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang patted the ¡°dog¡¯s head¡± as he walked by. Qi Fei who was following him mocked, ¡°You haven¡¯t gotten used to it yet? I¡¯m already numb to it.¡±


    Xie Meng asked, ¡°Where is Zhang Ganggang?¡±


    Ji Qinyang took his bag from him. ¡°Han Dong came. We¡¯ll go reserve the seats first, he¡¯ll join us later.¡±


    Xie Meng did not understand why Han Dong was here. Qi Fei glanced at him, ¡°He¡¯s here to help Goddess Rourou deliver her letter¡­ What year is it now, I¡¯ve never seen anyone dating with such a foolish manner. We¡¯ll ignore the fact that they¡¯re still writing letters, but they even found a middleman to be their postman. As expected, China Post is unreliable.¡±


    This is the first time Qi Fei had taken the initiative to speak to Xie Meng in several days. Ever since he learned about his relationship with Ji Qinyang, Qi Fei¡¯s attitude had turned very awkward. A few days ago, even when they bumped into each other along the corridor, Qi Fei would deliberately avoid him and take a detour.


    Ji Qinyang had been unbothered and just hugged Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders, speaking lightly, ¡°Ignore him, the idiot will think things through himself in a while.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    The few people were waiting for Zhang Ganggang at the dessert shop near the school. Ji Qinyang and Zhuo Xiaoyuan went to the counter to make their orders, and Qi Fei sat across Xie Meng, clearing his throat awkwardly.


    ¡°Umm¡­ I wasn¡¯t being prejudiced or anything like that.¡± Qi Fei scratched his head, vexed. ¡°After all, Boss Ji had always been going after girls¡­¡± He glanced at Xie Meng¡¯s face, muttering, ¡°Although you¡¯re pretty good looking, but you¡¯re too handsome¡­ No matter how I look at you, you¡¯re still a man.¡±


    Xie Meng was speechless for a long time, and finally, he could only thank him, neither laughing nor crying.


    ¡°Why are you thanking me? I didn¡¯t compliment you.¡± Qi Fei said carelessly, ¡°As long as Boss Ji is happy, we¡¯re still buddies.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled and nodded, ¡°We¡¯ve always been buddies.¡±


    Qi Fei twisted about in his seat, and could not resist gossiping smugly, ¡°However, I had really not expected that Boss would finally fall under your hands. He was a man whom Yin Luoxue could not even settle in middle school! At that time, he was truly lascivious, with girlfriends one after another, Boss Ji really has no precedents, nor will he have any successors.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng¡¯s smile was ambiguous. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Qi Fei exclaimed proudly, ¡°Of course¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course what?¡± Standing behind Qi Fei, Ji Qinyang interrupted. He was done paying, and smiled, asking Xie Meng, ¡°What was he saying about me?¡±


    Qi Fei turned his head around stiffly, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng answered mildly, ¡°We were talking about your past.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°?¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s expression was unruffled. ¡°Truly lascivious, with girlfriends one after another, no precedents, nor any successors?¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng looked at Qi Fei, ¡°Is there anything else? Just say it all at once.¡±


    He patted the seat next to him, ¡°Ji Qinyang and I will listen together?¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    Han Dong watched as Zhang Ganggang bounded towards him. In the heat of the day, the boy¡¯s head was covered in sweat, and his baby face was reddened by the sun. He even nearly tripped and fell in front of him.


    ¡°¡­¡± Han Dong stared at him expressionlessly. ¡°Hello.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang panted as he greeted him. ¡°H-hello¡­¡± He wiped his sweat, looking nervous and excited, ¡°Where¡¯s the letter?¡±


    Han Dong slowly pulled out a pink envelope from his bag. ¡°Where¡¯s yours?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang hurriedly handed over the letter he wrote. He even remembered to warn him, ¡°Don¡¯t read it.¡±


    Han Dong¡¯s hand paused. He glanced at Zhang Ganggang, coldly acknowledging him.


    Zhang Ganggang eagerly opened Rourou¡¯s letter. He looked warily at Han Dong, then carefully covered the letter with his hand before reading it.


    Han Dong, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was still worried. ¡°Can you turn your head around?¡±


    Han Dong took a deep breath. Holding himself back for a while, he finally turned around. It was about five minutes later, when Zhang Ganggang allowed him to turn back, satisfied.


    ¡°You¡¯ve finished reading it?¡± Han Dong was scornful, ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you know what Rourou said to me?¡± Zhang Ganggang cut him off excitedly. At that moment, the boy looked like he was surrounded by a layer of pink floating hearts.


    Han Dong paused. He had been affected by how Zhang Ganggang had the aura of a main character in a shoujo manga, and was unable to say anything rude. Twisting about for some time, he finally stiffly spoke, ¡°W-what did she say?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang giggled for a long time. Only when Han Dong clearly looked impatient did the boy spoke with a solemn face, ¡°You really want to know?¡±


    Han Dong¡¯s eyes narrowed coldly, ¡°Are you going to say it or not.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang grinned. ¡°I¡¯m not going to tell you~¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°¡­¡±


    Because of exams, Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang had not been to the martial arts centre for a while. When they arrived, many of the martial arts trainers all came over and greeted them.


    ¡°You¡¯re late.¡± Master Li who taught Sanshou exchanged a few blows with Ji Qinyang. Xie Meng had already changed, and smiled at them. ¡°You can just leave us the spare key, I¡¯ll lock the doors.¡±


    Master Li certainly had no objection. He warned them not to play until too late and left.


    Ji Qinyang changed his clothes straight in the hall. Xie Meng was doing a split, his hands holding onto one foot, and his face almost pressing against a knee.


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. He crouched down, reaching out wanting to touch the boy¡¯s waist. Xie Meng saw him and suddenly snapped his legs together. With a spin, he turned and sat up.


    ¡°What are you avoiding?¡± Ji Qinyang smiled. He took a step forward, only for Xie Meng to trap his legs. Before he could regain his balance, Xie Meng caught his arm and pulled.


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang lay on his back. Xie Meng was sitting across him, looking down.


    The boy was wearing a satin black jacket. As his collar was too big, a large patch of his fair chest was revealed when he bent over.


    Xie Meng frowned. Looking down, he saw Ji Qinyang¡¯s erection pressing against his buttocks.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng could not help but say, ¡°You¡¯re really not well-behaved.¡±


    Ji Qinyang held his waist, not feeling embarrassed at all. His smile was very rakish. ¡°Towards you, I can never be well-behaved.¡±


    Xie Meng narrowed his eyes. Ji Qinyang¡¯s hands had already slipped down to his buttocks, kneading at them a little roughly. Xie Meng licked his lips, and as Ji Qinyang stared at his face, he could not help but sitting up and kissing him.


    Xie Meng leaned back. Pressing one hand against Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulder, he pushed him back to the ground.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s breathing sped up. ¡°Hurry up¡­ Come give me a kiss.¡±


    Xie Meng was not moved. ¡°Other than Sun Tian, Yin Luoxue, who else were there?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes were full of innocence. ¡°How can you believe what Qi Fei says?¡±


    Xie Meng laughed lightly. He suddenly reached out and drew his finger along Ji Qinyang¡¯s lips before standing up and walking towards the door.


    With a look of bafflement, Ji Qinyang saw Xie Meng locked the door.


    Xie Meng returned, kneeling down beside Ji Qinyang¡¯s legs.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°?¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s face was blushing slightly. He undid his belt, blindfolding Ji Qinyang with it. ¡°Don¡¯t take it off.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not move. He could feel Xie Meng pulling his trousers down. The boy¡¯s hand was slightly cool, and his tugging actions were not very experienced. However, it did not affect Ji Qinyang¡¯s excitement at all. The erected part of his lower body was swollen and aching. Unconsciously, he reached down to grab hold of it, but felt Xie Meng¡¯s hair instead.


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang yanked off the belt around his eyes. The image before him was so arousing he nearly lost his mind.


    Xie Meng had his entire face buried between his legs, and was clumsily sucking him off.


    Probably because it was his first time, Xie Meng¡¯s technique could be described as awkward. He worked hard, swallowing Ji Qinyang¡¯s considerably sized cock, and when his tongue occasionally licked past the tip, he could taste something salty. At the start, Ji Qinyang could still control himself, but later on, he could no longer hold himself back, and as though encouraging him, he kneaded the back of Xie Meng¡¯s head.


    Xie Meng took a deep breath, taking even more of Ji Qinyang into his mouth. Ji Qinyang moaned in pleasure.


    The deepthroating made the corner of Xie Meng¡¯s eyes reddened slightly. He looked up towards Ji Qinyang, and Ji Qinyang was also looking at him. Their eyes met, and Ji Qinyang came.


    Unprepared, Xie Meng coughed. It was too late by the time he pulled himself off, and quite a fair bit of fluids spattered across his face. He reached out to wipe it off so as to prevent the come from dripping onto the floor.


    Ji Qinyang deftly removed his top and covered Xie Meng¡¯s head with it.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng was embarrassed. ¡°Stop wiping it¡­ It¡¯s already clean.¡±


    Ji Qinyang stopped. Through the shirt, he hugged Xie Meng, refusing to let him see his face.


    Xie Meng was amused. ¡°Is my technique that bad?¡±


    Ji Qinyang spoke, his voice muffled, ¡°It¡¯s not because of that.¡±


    ¡°Then why?¡± Xie Meng asked.


    Ji Qinyang turned his face away. ¡°Can¡¯t I be shy about it?¡±


    Xie Meng started laughing. Looking at him, Ji Qinyang leaned over and kissed his lips.


    ¡°A few days later, I¡¯ll be taking my music theory exam.¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve received the letter of recommendation from Shangyin. There¡¯s also an interview of Zhongyin in October.¡±


    Xie Meng patted his hair, ¡°Then you should go.¡±


    ¡°Do you wish for me to get into Shangyin?¡± Ji Qinyang held Xie Meng¡¯s hand and asked again, ¡°Do you wish so?¡±


    Xie Meng did not reply. He buried his face into Ji Qinyang¡¯s palm, and nodded softly after some time.

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    After the summer vacation, Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s body never truly recovered. When she was tired, she could sometimes even fall asleep in the courtyard. Xie Meng had to keep watching over her to prevent her from getting a cold or heatstroke.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s music theory exam results came out before the start of their third year of high school. Xie Meng did not ask, and he did not say either. The form teacher of Class 6 had sought him out a few times, and it seemed like quite many music colleges had offered him a space.


    They had a heavier class load now, and their homework stacked up like mountains. It felt as though their leisure time were truly precious now. Xie Meng spent most of his time reviewing his language classes, while Ji Qinyang sat next to him and guided him.


    ¡°Write down the line from Nalan Xingde¡¯s poem that expresses the yearning between lovers.¡±


    Xie Meng wrote in his book. ¡°If time could stop at the first moment we meet¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°It¡¯s not this line.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at him. ¡°This line is more familiar.¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled and shook his head. He took Xie Meng¡¯s book, and with words as pretty and exquisite as him, he wrote, ¡°Two entwined for life, an overwhelming dispute, yearning and longing but not together, for whom is spring.¡±


    Early October, Ji Qinyang began preparing to attend the interview at Beijing Central Conservatory of Music (Zhongyin). He applied for a month off school, and Mo Suyuan planned on accompanying him the whole time.


    ¡°This time, we can go to Beijing and have a good time.¡± His mother packed her clothes into the luggage. ¡°I remember that we¡¯ve been there when you were very young, but I don¡¯t know how it looks like now.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was sitting by the window, in a daze. He acknowledged his mother dully, and his headphones were around his neck.


    Mo Suyuan looked at her son. After a moment of deliberation, she slowly asked, ¡°You don¡¯t want to go to Zhongyin anymore?¡±


    Ji Qinyang turned his head around, cocking his brow. ¡°Of course not¡­ Don¡¯t overthink it.¡±


    Mo Suyuan sighed. ¡°I just feel that you don¡¯t seem very motivated. Previously, when you received the recommendation letter, you were still quite interested. Now, when you¡¯re about to go for the interview, you don¡¯t seem to place too much importance on it.¡± Mo Suyuan reached out, brushing her son¡¯s fringe and speaking gently, ¡°I know you¡¯ve applied for Shangyin as well¡­ But I hope you¡¯ll consider clearly what is it you exactly want.¡±


    Ji Qinyang pulled his headphones over his head. He grabbed the handrail, swaying along with the bus. Other than during the New Year, Shantang Street always had a spectacular crowd, and so there were many people waiting for the bus at the bus stop.


    On the bridge was a stall selling fried smelly tofu. The hawker was already very familiar with Ji Qinyang, and he called out to him from afar. ¡°Are you eating today?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled and waved his hand. ¡°Not today.¡±


    He crossed the bridge and walked along the river, down the narrow lane, and finally stopped outside the gate of Xie Meng¡¯s courtyard.


    Zhang Xiujuan was sitting in a rattan chair in the courtyard. The half-closed door hid Ji Qinyang, and she did not see him.


    The boy stood there quietly for a while. He heard Xie Meng shout from within the house, ¡°Grandma.¡±


    The old radio next to Zhang Xiujuan was playing <Dream of the Red Chamber>. The old lady was engrossed, and she only replied after a long time, ¡°Hey.¡±


    Xie Meng walked out with a bowl and chopsticks.


    ¡°Grandma,¡± The boy coaxed. ¡°It¡¯s time to eat.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan was like a child, seeming a little unwilling. ¡°I don¡¯t feel like eating.¡±


    Xie Meng dragged a chair over. ¡°Even if you don¡¯t feel like eating, you have to eat a bit. I¡¯ll feed you.¡±


    The old lady grumbled something, but at last she still obediently ate the food her grandson fed her.


    ¡°I¡¯m old now,¡± Zhang Xiujuan sighed as she ate. ¡°These few days, I¡¯ve been dreaming about your parents. They say they want to bring me to them so that they can show their filial respect.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled. ¡°Is my filial piety not enough?¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan snorted. ¡°It¡¯s not your turn yet.¡±


    Xie Meng did not say anything. After feeding her a few mouthfuls, he suddenly stopped and held Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s hand. ¡°Let me show my filial piety, alright? I¡¯ll be filial to you till you¡¯re a 100 years old. You must live till you¡¯re a hundred, if not you¡¯ll lose out.¡±


    ¡°Silly child.¡± The old lady was amused. ¡°Who can live for a hundred years? The dramas are all lying to you.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan tucked her hair behind her ear, then she patted Xie Meng on the back of his hand. ¡°Grandma doesn¡¯t want to hold you back¡­ You were looking at the universities in Beijing a while ago, weren¡¯t you? That¡¯s a place where Chairman Mao1 had lived before, and Grandma has never been there. If my grandson can go there, that¡¯s something to be very proud of.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan looked at Xie Meng. The wrinkles around her eyes seemed to mark her years, but her eyes were still clear and bright.


    ¡°Grandson, you have to remember,¡± She laughed. ¡°Grandma isn¡¯t your future, and you will meet someone even more important than me. You have to walk a very, very long road with that person, and live a happy, blissful and long life, just like how it is in the dramas.¡±


    Books always said that young people would easily give in to their impulses. Between love and reality, they would usually choose love. After maturing, they would always regret it. Many years later, when Ji Qinyang was about to turn forty, having experienced the ups and downs of life and his career and finally reaching success, someone too asked him a question about this.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± Despite the years leaving their marks on his face, Ji Qinyang¡¯s facial features were still exquisite and dazzling. He rested his chin on his hand, looking at the reporter who asked the question. The lady blushed. Flustered, she looked down at her list of questions.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ So in other words, you would tend to choose love?¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯d tend to choose love, but that I will still choose love.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t regret it?¡± The reporter asked.


    ¡°Why will I regret it?¡± Ji Qinyang smiled. He turned to face the audience, and the camera took a very clear shot of the simple silver ear stud in his left earlobe.


    ¡°I¡¯ve lost everything before,¡± Ji Qinyang said slowly. ¡°But I had always had love.¡±


    However, when he was only sixteen or seventeen, just like how the books were, Ji Qinyang was impulsive.


    Wearing his headphones, the teenager was lying on the stone bank of the river. The water flowed under the bridge, and the evening wind blew against his heated, burning chest.


    That was the last wind of this summer.


    When Ji Qinyang left for Beijing, Xie Meng did not see him off. He had a quiz that day, and after the quiz, he received a test from the boy. In the text were only five words. ¡°Wait for me to return.¡±


    Qi Fei pillowed his head with his arms, mumbling. ¡°Seems like the boss will be going much further than us¡­ Maybe we¡¯ll only be able to meet every winter and summer break annually?¡±


    Xie Meng replied the text. He packed up his belongings, and Zhang Ganggang was watching him. ¡°I want to go to Beijing too. Xie Meng, what about you?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan expressionlessly smacked Zhang Ganggang¡¯s head. ¡°You should first get your grades up. You think it¡¯s so easy to get into a Beijing university?¡±


    Xie Meng smiled. He flicked Zhang Ganggang¡¯s forehead with his finger. ¡°Let¡¯s work hard.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan went to the hospital for another check up a week ago. The results were not very good. The doctor implied that she had reached her time already, and wanted Xie Meng to be prepared.


    ¡°My grandmother has always been very healthy.¡± Xie Meng frowned, speaking composedly, ¡°Last year, she even sparred with me every morning.¡±


    The doctor sighed. ¡°Many old people are like this after the age of 80. I¡¯ve also met cases before, where they were usually very fit and healthy, they would run every morning, then suddenly pass away at night while sleeping¡­ This has nothing to with any diseases. It¡¯s just the circle of life. When your time is up, this is bound to happen.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. He looked at Zhang Xiujuan who sitting in the corridor. The old lady was chatting with a patient next door, and pride could be heard in her voice.


    ¡°My little grandson¡­ He¡¯s in his third year of high school, and his grades are extremely good.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s going to go to Beijing to study after he graduates¡­How would he not make it?!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, he¡¯s very filial. I¡¯m a blessed old woman.¡±


    Xie Meng called out to her when he came out. ¡°Grandma.¡±


    The patient exclaimed, praising him. ¡°Your grandson is very good-looking.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan was delighted. Xie Meng supported her, and waited for her to say goodbye to the patient.


    Exiting the hospital, Xie Meng hailed a taxi. The driver could only drive till the intersection of Shantang Street, and after disembarking, Xie Meng crouched down in front of Zhang Xiujuan.


    ¡°Grandma,¡± He turned and smiled at the old lady. ¡°I¡¯ll carry you on my back.¡±


    The setting sun dyed the clouds on the horizon red, and the clear river under the bridge glimmered in the light. With Zhang Xiujuan on his back, Xie Meng slowly walked along the bluestone path. A black canopy boat meandered past them, and on her grandson¡¯s back, the old lady hummed the Purple Bamboo Tune.


    Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s humming broke off intermittently, and Xie Meng was silent the entire time. Halfway through, the old lady suddenly thought of something and asked Xie Meng. ¡°Where is Xiao Ji, how come he hasn¡¯t been here in such a long time?¡±


    Xie Meng shifted her up a little. ¡°He¡¯s gone to Beijing for an exam, and would be back next month.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan smiled. ¡°See, he¡¯s already gone to Beijing already¡­ You have to work hard too.¡±


    Xie Meng did not reply. Only when they were about to arrive at home, he agreed.


    Zhang Xiujuan slept early that night. Xie Meng called Ji Qinyang in his room, and through the phone, the boy sounded a little hoarse.


    ¡°I¡¯ve sang too much the past few days,¡± Ji Qinyang explained. ¡°What about you? Did you miss me?¡±


    Xie Meng lay on his bed, covering his eyes with his arm. ¡°What do you think? ¡­ Don¡¯t waste the cost of the long distance call.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed quietly.


    Xie Meng did not speak for a while until Ji Qinyang asked him, ¡°How is grandma?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s still fine,¡± Xie Meng said. ¡°Just like usual.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back in half a month¡¯s time,¡± Ji Qinyang said in a low voice. ¡°I¡¯ll come back and accompany you.¡±


    The weather gradually cooled down in the late October. During the weekend, the heat of the sun was pleasant. It was rare that Zhang Xiujuan woke up early, and after practising his martial arts, Xie Meng helped carry her rattan chair and her radio out into the courtyard.


    ¡°What would you like to listen to?¡± Xie Meng fiddled with the knobs on the radio. It had been long since the old lady had been so energetic, and he too felt a lot more relaxed.


    Zhang Xiujuan thought about it. ¡°Let¡¯s just listen to <A Girl¡¯s Love>.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed. ¡°You¡¯ve already listened to it so many times, aren¡¯t you sick of it yet?¡±


    Although he was grumbling, he still played Wan Xiaoli¡¯s version of <A Girl¡¯s Love>. The radio was still not very good, and it took a while before sound came out from it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go do the laundry.¡± Xie Meng straightened Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s hair. ¡°Call me if you need anything.¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan did not answer. Under the sun, she squinted in satisfaction.


    Xie Meng stepped into the house. He soaked every item of clothing as he listened to the somewhat desolate voice of the male singer.


    ¡°Mandarin ducks and butterflies fly in pairs, the garden in spring is intoxicating¡­¡± The old radio jammed a little, and barely managed to continue. ¡°¡­ I asked the eminent monk, is my daughter beautiful¡­ my daughter¡­ beautiful¡­¡±


    The radio suddenly stopped, only leaving a buzzing sound of rotating machinery. Xie Meng frowned, and he called out. ¡°Grandma.¡±


    Sunlight scattered over the walls of the courtyard. The wind rustled through the fallen leaves on the ground. Zhang Xiujuan sat motionless on her rattan chair.


    Xie Meng stood up. ¡°Grandma?¡±


    No one responded.


    With a click, the play button of the radio sprung up. It was silent, and could never make a sound again.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    Ji Qinyang was fiddling with his mobile. After changing her clothes, Mo Suyuan walked out from the fitting room. Standing in front of the mirror, she shifted and looked at her reflection.


    ¡°Does it look nice?¡± Mo Suyuan asked her son. Ji Qinyang looked and smiled, ¡°Is there even anything that looks bad on you?¡±


    Mo Suyuan rebuked him, ¡°Are you treating your mother like a girl? What a honeyed tongue.¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked his brow and remained silent. He waited for Mo Suyuan to pass the clothes over to the salesgirl to pack them up and prepare the receipt before slowly asking, ¡°When are we going back?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t we already agreed on this?¡± Mo Suyuan took her wallet out, speaking unconcernedly. ¡°Let¡¯s have one more week of fun¡­ and I¡¯ll take a look at Zhongyin¡¯s dorm with you, so that we can prepare anything that¡¯s lacking in advance.¡±


    ¡°I might not stay in a dormitory.¡±


    Mo Suyuan was taken aback. ¡°You¡¯re not staying there?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too small, there¡¯s not enough space for my instruments,¡± Ji Qinyang explained. ¡°It¡¯s better to rent an apartment.¡±


    Mo Suyuan looked at him in askance. ¡°You sure you¡¯re not planning on cohabitating with a girl?¡±


    Ji Qinyang replied with much innocence, ¡°Who is this girl I¡¯ll be cohabitating with?¡±


    Mo Suyuan snorted, ¡°You know it yourself.¡±


    She winked slyly, ¡°Sure, you can rent a place. You have to think of a way yourself though, Mama is not going to help you.¡±


    Early in the morning, Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not see Xie Meng arrive at school. He also did not reply his text, and after the first class of the day, Maitreya asked him to go to the office to help pick up the examination papers.


    ¡°Distribute them.¡± Maitreya stacked the pile of marked papers on Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s arms. The teacher whose desk was next to them happened to return, and greeted Maitreya. ¡°This time, Qidong¡¯s papers are very difficult. How did your class do?¡±


    Maitreya spread his palms, ¡°Same old, same old.¡±


    The teacher laughed. ¡°Xie Meng is the first in class again?¡±


    ¡°When is he not the first?¡± Maitreya sighed, ¡°This child just cannot get a break¡­ The college entrance examination is approaching, yet this happened to his relative. I don¡¯t know if he¡¯ll be able to push through it.¡±


    Some of the papers on Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s arms slid to the ground. Maitreya saw this and cried out, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    ¡°What happened to Xie Meng¡¯s grandmother?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked closely at Maitreya, his brows knitted deeply. ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s funeral was very simple. Most of it was done with the help of their neighbours, setting up the mourning hall and inviting the monks to chant rituals. As the old lady was of an advanced age, and she had left without any pain, it was considered a funeral for one who had lived to a ripe old age. Many of the people who came to mourn were not excessively sorrowful.


    In the kitchen, Xie Meng was steaming buns alone. Taking a basket out, he distributed them to everyone.


    Master Jin from the martial arts centre patted him on the shoulder. ¡°Xiao Xie, you¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    The colour of Xie Meng¡¯s face looked awful, and his eyes were obviously tired. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    Master Jin nodded. He took out a cigarette and lit it, smoking a few puffs and offered it to Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s picture. ¡°What do you plan on doing now?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it. ¡°I¡¯ll apply to a university, and continue to study I guess.¡±


    ¡°Going to university is good,¡± Master Jin smiled. He looked at the wreaths in the courtyard, ¡°Your grandmother always wanted the best for you.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. After a long moment, he finally acknowledged Master Jin¡¯s words.


    The two sat down and chatted for a while more. It was getting late, and the guests all started leaving one after another. Xie Meng stood up to send them off, and when he returned, Master Jin was no longer there. On the table was a white envelope, and Xie Meng discovered 5000rmb inside.


    The cigarette was left with only the butt. Xie Meng cleared the trash before lighting up a joss stick and kneeling in front of Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s photo, bowing three times.


    The joss stick burned slowly, and the ashes fell into the burner. Xie Meng stood up, looking at the old lady¡¯s black and white photo in front of him.


    No matter at what age Zhang Xiujuan was, it was evident from her facial features that she was a beauty in her youth. She had a pair of smiling eyes, gentle and affectionate.


    No matter how old she is, Zhang Xiujuan can see from her five senses that she was a beautiful woman in her youth, with gentle and affectionate smiles. She is a typical woman in the south of the Yangtze River who looks like smoke and water. Gentle and pretty, she was the model Jiangnan woman.


    The years seemed reluctant to make her older, and so silently gave her a gentle end.


    When Ji Qinyang received Xie Meng¡¯s call in the middle of the night, he even incredulously confirmed the call again. Getting up from his bed, he walked to the balcony.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you sleeping yet?¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s room was located on a very high floor of the hotel. Looking down, he could see the bustling nightlife. Unlike Suzhou, even after 10pm, Beijing was still lit up with bright lights, swarming with life.


    Xie Meng¡¯s voice was a little quiet. ¡°I¡¯m about to sleep¡­ Were you sleeping?¡±


    Ji Qinyang lied, ¡°Of course not, I¡¯ve been waiting for your call.¡±


    Xie Meng breathed lightly. He was silent for a moment, before speaking slowly. ¡°There¡¯s a thunderstorm over here in Suzhou¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Ji Qinyang looked at the neon signs on the buildings in the distance. ¡°The weather in Beijing is very good, there¡¯s a wind, and it¡¯s not wet¡­¡±


    ¡°Ji Qinyang.¡± Xie Meng interrupted him suddenly.


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°¡­ When are you coming back?¡±


    Ji Qinyang paused, then laughed. ¡°It¡¯s rare to hear you say something like this¡­ Did you miss me?¡±


    Thunder could be heard, and even Xie Meng¡¯s voice sounded somewhat damp.


    The boy sighed, seemingly resigned. ¡°Other than you, who else can I miss?¡± A pause, and Xie Meng whispered, ¡°Come back soon.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang rested his forehead on his hand. After some time, he mumbled, ¡°I really want to look at your expression right now¡­¡±


    Xie Meng was embarrassed. ¡°¡­ Better not, it¡¯s too ugly.¡±


    ¡°Why would it be ugly? Did you cry?¡± Ji Qinyang joked.


    Xie Meng remained silent.


    Ji Qinyang thought about it. ¡°You¡¯ll definitely be very handsome when you cry too.¡±


    Xie Meng sounded a little hoarse. ¡°I¡¯ve never even cried in front of you before, how would you know?¡±


    Ji Qinyang paused before chuckling, ¡°There would always be a chance of it happening in the future.¡±


    After hanging up, Ji Qinyang did not return immediately to his room. Frowning, he scanned through his contact list and dialled Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s number as he leaned against the railing.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan picked up very quickly, his voice alert and a little cool. ¡°Hold on for a bit,¡± He told Ji Qinyang. Then he sounded like he was comforting someone, his tone low and gentle. ¡°We¡¯ll go back after this injection. If you¡¯re sleepy, just take a nap, Gege will accompany you¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang waited for him to settle down before asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Jinjin?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the same old problem, it¡¯s nothing urgent,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan was composed. ¡°I¡¯ve been wanting to contact you. I haven¡¯t been able to get through to Xie Meng recently, and he hasn¡¯t been replying my texts¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°I¡¯ve just spoke to him on the phone.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan choked, gritting his teeth. ¡°Are you going to let the single person talk!?¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Forget it,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan huffed, grumbling. ¡°Then, what did he talk to you about?¡±


    Ji Qinyang had just opened his mouth, only to hear Zhuo Xiaoyuan speaking gloomily, ¡°If it¡¯s nothing but sweet talk, you can just shut up¡­ Abusing a single dog in the middle of the night, be careful of me suing you!¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed evilly, ¡°Then I better not say anything.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You guys really¡­¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan clicked his tongue, feeling a headache. ¡°I really don¡¯t know if I should say your relationship is very good or what. Forget about Xie Meng not telling us about it, but he¡¯s also hiding it from you¡­ But you¡¯re going through an exam in Beijing, he probably doesn¡¯t want to trouble you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s smile disappeared. ¡°What exactly is going on?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan kept silent for a while, before he slowly said, ¡°Grandma Zhang has passed away. It happened last Saturday, and Xie Meng has applied for a leave of absence til the 7th. I wanted to go down today, but then Jinjin¡¯s health¡­ Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei have arranged to go over first tomorrow, when are you coming back?¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s fingers tightened over his phone.


    Seeing that he had yet to respond, Zhuo Xiaoyuan called out to him doubtfully. ¡°Hey, are you still listening¡­ Anyway, just come back as soon as you can. Xie Meng has a very quiet nature, if he doesn¡¯t cry or make a fuss, I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll get sick from it¡­¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t,¡± Ji Qinyang insisted. ¡°With me around, he won¡¯t.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan sounded scornful. ¡°¡­ Where is your confidence coming from? He didn¡¯t even tell you anything.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°He doesn¡¯t need to say anything and I would still know.¡±


    The boy looked up, and the colourful neon lights from the opposite building reflected upon his face. Ji Qinyang looked calm and gentle. ¡°Whatever Xie Meng is thinking, I understand everything.¡±


    Ever since Zhang Xiujuan passed away, Xie Meng¡¯s schedule had turned irregular. Since the first night he stood vigil, his sleep schedule had never adjusted back. For the next few days, he was unable to fall asleep.


    Exhausted in the morning, unable to sleep at night, the only thing Xie Meng could do was to force himself to eat a little more, so as to not collapse.


    After calling Ji Qinyang that night, Xie Meng held his phone and finally groggily fell asleep. The next morning when he woke up, the sky had cleared up.


    Clearing the ashes in the burner, Xie Meng again wiped the photo frame.


    Once October was over, the feel of autumn became more intense. Clouds were high, and the breeze was light. The fragrance of the sweet-smelling osmanthus wafted all the way to the courtyard. Xie Meng thought about it, then stood up to open the gate. He planned on airing the place, but just as he opened the door, someone was standing there.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand was raised, looking as though he was about to knock on the door. Standing outside, his luggage was next to him, and his hair was in a mess, doing nothing for his image.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang was taken aback, then he smiled. ¡°Good morning.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng blinked. ¡°Aren¡¯t you¡­¡±


    ¡°I bought the earliest flight ticket, spending the night in the train station. Fortunately, there was a train from Shanghai to Suzhou in the morning.¡±


    Xie Meng could not say a word.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes were fixed on Xie Meng¡¯s face. He looked for a very long time, before opening his arms and smiling, ¡°Come, give me a hug.¡±


    After filling his stomach, the next thing Ji Qinyang was in a hurry to do was to wash his hair. The water heater was not yet turned on, and Xie Meng could only boil some water instead. He prepared a basin for Ji Qinyang, and after soaking his hair, the boy washed his face as well. Standing behind him with a scoop, Xie Meng slowly poured water over his head.


    ¡°Is it too hot?¡± Xie Meng combed Ji Qinyang¡¯ soft hair with his fingers.


    The boy shook his head, mumbling, ¡°It¡¯s not too hot¡­ Pass me the shampoo.¡±


    Xie Meng rolled up his sleeves. ¡°I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡±


    Xie Meng foamed up the shampoo and rubbed it into Ji Qinyang¡¯s hair. Massaging his head a few times, he then rinsed it with water.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move,¡± Xie Meng instructed. Handing a towel to Ji Qinyang, he went into the house to grab a hairdryer. When he came out, he saw the boy rubbing at his hair.


    Ji Qinyang hung the towel around his neck. He held Xie Meng¡¯s hand, and trapped him between his legs.


    Xie Meng looked down at him.


    Ji Qinyang reached out to touch the boy¡¯s hair, then his cheek, and finally his lips. He pulled at Xie Meng¡¯s neck. The latter bent down, and the two exchanged a kiss.


    ¡°¡­ Blow your hair dry first.¡± Xie Meng kissed Ji Qinyang¡¯s forehead.


    After lighting a joss stick for Zhang Xiujuan and bowing, Ji Qinyang saw Xie Meng on the phone in the courtyard. When he hung up, Ji Qinyang asked, ¡°Zhang Ganggang?¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. ¡°Mn. He¡¯ll be coming over with Qi Fei in the afternoon.¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. ¡°The afternoon¡­¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°?


    Ji Qinyang took a few steps over to Xie Meng. Crouching, he lifted Xie Meng up in his arms.


    ¡°!¡± Without thinking, Xie Meng wanted to struggle. However, Ji Qinyang did not let go, and even raised him up a little as though he was weighing him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost weight again.¡± The boy turned to look down at Xie Meng. ¡°Let¡¯s go take a nap first?¡±


    Xie Meng was embarrassed. ¡°A nap¡­ What if I can¡¯t sleep?¡±


    Carrying him, Ji Qinyang headed to his room, speaking calmly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely make you fall asleep.¡±

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    By the time he was stripped and shoved into his bed, Xie Meng still had yet to register what was going on. Ji Qinyang climbed into bed from the other side, and Xie Meng felt a heat upon his feet. Ji Qinyang was holding his ankles.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­¡± Feeling Ji Qinyang¡¯s kisses on his toes, Xie Meng blushed, embarrassed. ¡°They¡¯re dirty.¡±


    Ji Qinyang ignored him. His kisses moved from his toes to the top of his foot, then trailed up his calves, and to his thighs. When he started sucking on the skin of his inner thighs, Xie Meng had a very evident response in the lower part of his body.


    The boy covered his face with the back of his hand. Ji Qinyang slowly kissed up to his waist and belly, finally popping his head out from under the blanket, and licked Xie Meng¡¯s nipples.


    The hand Xie Meng was using to cover his eyes was pulled away by Ji Qinyang. Clasping their hands together, Ji Qinyang held the hand down next to the pillow. He kissed him on the forehead, and finally stopped at the slightly damp corner of the boy¡¯s eye.


    Xie Meng opened his eyes and looked at him.


    Ji Qinyang kissed as he mumbled, ¡°As expected, you¡¯re very handsome.¡±


    Xie Meng shook his head, reaching out and holding onto Ji Qinyang tightly.


    They spent the entire morning in bed, with Ji Qinyang kissing Xie Meng from head to toe several times. During the blowjob, Xie Meng covered his mouth, refusing to let his moans out. After coming, Ji Qinyang still refused to let him off, and his collarbone was covered with kiss marks.


    Ji Qinyang too had a reaction, but he refused to let Xie Meng help him out.


    ¡°You should sleep,¡± Ji Qinyang hugged him through the blanket.


    Xie Meng was so drowsy he could not open his eyes. Burying himself in the crook of Ji Qinyang¡¯s neck, he sniffed at the clean scent of sunshine from the boy.


    Ji Qinyang pressed his lips against Xie Meng¡¯s forehead. He hummed for a while, and when he looked down again, Xie Meng had fallen asleep.


    He slept all the way till 2 or 3 in the afternoon. Covering himself with the blanket, Xie Meng sat up. He could hear Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei speaking in the living room.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± Ji Qinyang entered the room with clean clothes. He closed the door, and sat down next to Xie Meng.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you wake me up¡­¡± Xie Meng rubbed at his face. ¡°How long have they been here already?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, looking at Xie Meng¡¯s expression. Reaching out, he stroked his face. ¡°You look so much better.¡±


    Xie Meng held his hand. ¡°I slept very well.¡±


    ¡°Seems like it¡¯s all thanks to me.¡± Ji Qinyang leaned in and kissed the boy¡¯s lips. ¡°Raise your hands.¡±


    ¡°?¡± Baffled, Xie Meng raised his arms. Ji Qinyang wrapped his arms around him, and pulled him onto his thighs with a little bit of strength.


    ¡°Come, Gege will help you dress.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang had brought along with him his mother¡¯s cooking. Qi Fei was in charge of buying fruit, and the two almost filled Xie Meng¡¯s refrigerator entirely. As they ate, Zhang Ganggang¡¯s eyes were red.


    Xie Meng looked at Ji Qinyang, and the latter shrugged innocently, implying that he did not know what had happened.


    ¡°Don¡¯t, don¡¯t be sad¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang choked up as he placed some food in Xie Meng¡¯s bowl. ¡°This too will, will pass¡­¡±


    Xie Meng was rather helpless. ¡°I¡¯m not even crying, why are you crying?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang cried aloud. ¡°I-I¡¯m crying on your behalf¡­¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    After spending quite a lot of effort to coax Zhang Ganggang, the four of them sat in the courtyard during the evening and chatted. Qi Fei asked what plans did Xie Meng have now.


    ¡°For now, there¡¯s no problem with money. There¡¯s still some left over from my parents¡¯ insurance, and my grandmother had savings as well.¡± Xie Meng took the bankbook out and made some calculations. ¡°If there¡¯s not enough, I can work after the college examination, and earn the university fees.¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°You don¡¯t have to work. The country has scholarships to help students, and in your situation, you can apply for them.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was more concerned about other matters. ¡°Then where are you planning to apply to? You¡¯re not going to Beijing?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak, but turned his head to look at Xie Meng.


    ¡°My grandmother¡¯s greatest wish before she died was for me to go and study in the capital. So¡­¡± Xie Meng said slowly, meeting Ji Qinyang¡¯s eyes and smiling faintly. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best, and get into Beijing.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang cheered. Ji Qinyang raised his brow, reaching out and giving Xie Meng a high-five. Qi Fei clicked his tongue, ¡°If you¡¯re all going to the capital, it seems like I¡¯ll be the only one left in Suzhou then.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang urged him, ¡°You should go to Beijing too.¡±


    ¡°This is something you won¡¯t understand,¡± Qi Fei folded his arms, speaking solemnly. ¡°I¡¯m developing my tyranny over Suzhou here. Later on, when you guys are no longer able to handle being out there, and you want to come back, I¡¯ll take care of all of you!¡±


    Ji Qinyang punched him lightly, giving a lazy laugh. ¡°What a good buddy.¡±


    Qi Fei was smug. ¡°Of course!¡±


    Emotionally, Zhang Ganggang hugged Qi Fei. ¡°Mama Qi! I¡¯ll definitely be very filial towards you in the future!¡±


    Qi Fei exploded. ¡°¡­ Who the fuck is your Mama Qi?! Let go! Let go of me now!¡±


    After seven days of mourning, Xie Meng returned to school. Early in the morning, he bumped into Zhuo Xiaoyuan outside class.


    ¡°Morning.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s eyes fell onto the boy¡¯s left arm, where a piece of black silk was hung. ¡°Has everything been settled?¡±


    Xie Meng nodded. ¡°Everything was fine.¡±


    ¡°Is Ji Qinyang back?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xie Meng revealed a small smile. ¡°Is Jinjin still ok?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s still the same situation, I¡¯m used to it already.¡±


    Xie Meng thought over it, and said slowly, ¡°She¡¯s still young, there¡¯s still hope ahead of her.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan looked at him, raising his brows. ¡°I know, I won¡¯t give up so easily.¡±


    Compared to Ji Qinyang who would be taking the arts route, Xie Meng and the three of them were immersed deep in the life of studying. Even though Qi Fei and Zhang Ganggang had chosen the liberal arts course, they still had the insurmountable mountain of mathematics in front of them.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was pretty good at mathematics, but weak in English. The one thing he did the most everyday was to memorize his vocabulary and grammar.


    Xie Meng planned a schedule of translating the ancient Chinese texts for himself, and also needed to help tutor Zhang Ganggang and Qi Fei in mathematics.


    In the end, the one who was most relaxed was Ji Qinyang. The boy just wore his headphones everyday and wrote his songs. After class, he would go buy food for the few of them.


    ¡°Zhang Ganggang, didn¡¯t you sign up for a weekend cram school?¡± Qi Fei listed the formulae on a piece of draft paper. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you improved at all?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang happened to be eating fried noodles, and with an oily mouth, he mumbled, ¡°That cram school was for people like Xie Meng¡­ I¡¯m about to be kicked out soon.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at him. ¡°Who is the one who keeps talking to Han Dong about Rourou during the class? You spend half the class reading a letter, and the other half writing a letter. Other than Rourou, there¡¯s nothing else going on.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang responded guiltily, ¡°But the questions are really very difficult¡­ And that Han Dong is really too impressive! He clearly doesn¡¯t listen to anything, but he knows everything! He¡¯s just a monster!¡±


    ¡°I remember that Han Dong got second in the Olympics competition.¡± Ji Qinyang split the chopsticks and handed the fried rice to Xie Meng. ¡°Why are you comparing yourself with this kind of people? Of course he doesn¡¯t need to study, but can you do that?¡±


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡± Zhang Ganggang¡¯s mouth fell open blankly. ¡°He lied to me, saying he was here to play¡­¡±


    Qi Fei could not bear to see him like this, and patted his head. ¡°Son, you should just stay by my side. There¡¯s too many bad people out there.¡±


    Xie Meng requested for leave during the cram school on Saturday, saying that he was going out to play with Ji Qinyang and to relax himself. Zhang Ganggang wanted to follow, but was sent away by Ji Qinyang¡¯s ¡°you still need to write and exchange your diary with your Rourou¡±.


    Unwillingly, Zhang Ganggang headed to the cram school. Han Dong was still sitting in the same seat, looking at him annoyed.


    ¡°Why are you so late?¡± He glanced at Zhang Ganggang¡¯s expression, cocking a brow. ¡°You don¡¯t want Rourou¡¯s letter anymore?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang muttered, ¡°It¡¯s not like you¡¯re Rourou¡­¡±


    Han Dong smiled coldly. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang shut his mouth. Taking an envelope from his bag, he pushed it across the table. Then, like a quail, he hunched in his seat, no longer moving.


    Han Dong glared at him. ¡°What do you mean by this?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang seemed to still be very afraid of him. He hemmed and hawed for a long time, before speaking aggrievedly, ¡°Everytime I ask you why Rourou never come out to meet me, you¡¯ll just answer me perfunctorily¡­ It¡¯s not like I¡¯ll do anything to her.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Han Dong sighed, rubbing between his brows. ¡°Didn¡¯t I already tell you that her family is very strict?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just help me take a photo when she passes you the letter?!¡±


    Han Dong laughed aloud, then snorted. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you don¡¯t care how she looks like? Were you lying?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang immediately deflated. ¡°No¡­ I¡¯m just curious¡­ I want to know, that¡¯s it¡­¡±


    Han Dong sneered. ¡°What¡¯s there to be curious about. It¡¯s just a nose and a pair of eyes. What she has, I have them too, it¡¯s enough for you to just look at me.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    The last final exams of the third year of high school was equivalent to being the last exams they would have before the college examination. Zhang Ganggang was so nervous that he could hardly sleep. Not only did Xie Meng had to revise the ancient Chinese poems, he still had to prepare a few math problems for the few of them to do.


    ¡°I heard that this time, the exams will be the same for all schools.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan selected a few geometry questions. ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like it¡¯ll be enough just to look at our own school questions, right?¡±


    All along, Zhang Ganggang had always believed in practising questions over and over again. ¡°Then what should we do?¡±


    Xie Meng considered it. ¡°I¡¯ll go ask Han Dong for some of their school papers. S High has always been very good at picking questions.¡±


    Han Dong answered very easily and frankly. ¡°I¡¯ll send them over¡­ Where are you?¡±


    Ji Qinyang took the phone. ¡°We¡¯re at the McDonald¡¯s on Shi Street. How long will it take for you to come over?¡±


    ¡°About ten minutes.¡± Han Dong asked, ¡°Zhang Ganggang¡¯s there too?¡±


    Ji Qinyang glanced over at Zhang Ganggang sitting across him.


    He still had that innocent, childlike face. ¡°?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ji Qinyang sold him without feeling any guilt. With a relaxed tone, he added, Bring something to drink when you come over, Xie Meng¡¯s not used to the milk in McDonalds.¡±


    The five people did not wait long before Han Dong arrived, and he really did bring milk for Xie Meng. His eyes sweeping across the group, then fell on Zhang Ganggang¡¯s face.


    The latter glared at him as though he saw a nemesis.


    In between the both of them, Qi Fei felt a little awkward. ¡°Want me to move aside?¡±


    Han Dong glanced at him. Putting his bag down, he took the papers out and spread them on the table. Xie Meng looked through them, and was delighted. ¡°As expected, S High¡¯s questions are really of a higher standard.¡±


    He asked Han Dong, ¡°You¡¯ve done them all already?¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡± Han Dong nodded. Pretending to be indifferent, he spoke calmly, ¡°You can do them first, and I¡¯ll explain it to them?¡±


    Qi Fei and Zhuo Xiaoyuan naturally had no objections about that. Before Xie Meng could say anything, Zhang Ganggang leapt up in a hurry.


    ¡°I, I¡¯ll wait for Xie Meng to be done and he can explain it to me!¡±


    Narrowing his eyes, Han Dong stared coldly at him.


    Zhang Ganggang forced himself to say, ¡°I¡¯m too stupid, you won¡¯t be able to teach me!¡±


    ¡°At least you know you¡¯re stupid.¡± Han Dong snorted disdainfully, ¡°Since you¡¯re stupid, just listen to me obediently, understand?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    In Suzhou, there was a saying that the winter solstice was as important as the new year. Despite the atmosphere being all tense due to the impending examinations, Zhang Ganggang was still looking forward to drinking winter brewed wine in the evening.


    Xie Meng too prepared two small jars of wines. He poured three cups, placing them in front of Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s and his parents¡¯ portraits. The smell of incense combined with the fragrance of the osmanthus wine, full bodied and dense.


    Early next morning, Ji Qinyang came by to pick Xie Meng up for school. At the front of the bicycle hung a stalk of osmanthus, and Xie Meng laughed when he saw it.


    Ji Qinyang cocked his brow. ¡°BM Fragrant Car.¡±


    Xie Meng shook his head, ¡°How cultured.¡±


    He climbed onto the seat at the back, holding the osmanthus stalk in his hand. Ji Qinyang rang the bell as he cycled through the old streets and alleys.


    After the winter solstice, the sun rose later. At seven in the morning, it still felt like the gentle morning sun. The old lady selling sugar porridge1 was pushing her cart, and steam was wafting off her open pot.


    ¡°It feels like it¡¯s going to snow.¡± Ji Qinyang warmed his hands with the bowl of sugar porridge. Seeing him, Xie Meng took his gloves off and passed it to him.


    Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°One for each of us.¡±


    Xie Meng was helpless against him. ¡°There were originally yours. I¡¯m not the one cycling, yet you insist on making me wear them.¡±


    ¡°Then you must hold me tightly when you sit behind me. Like this, you¡¯ll be warm.¡±


    Xie Meng glanced at him, remaining silent. After they finished their porridge, they continued on their way, and from behind, Xie Meng hugged Ji Qinyang tightly.


    ¡°My good little darling.¡± Ji Qinyang laughed. He looked in front of him without turning back. ¡°Have you memorized all the ancient poems yet?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of swallowing in the wind?¡± Amusement could be heard in Xie Meng¡¯s force. ¡°I¡¯ve memorized them all.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll test you?¡±


    Xie Meng was a little surprised. ¡°Now?¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡± Ji Qinyang thought for a moment, ¡°Su Shi¡¯s <Courtyard Full of Fragrance>. For fame as vain as a snail¡¯s horn2, and the last line.¡±


    Xie Meng recited it almost instantaneously. ¡°The Southern shore is fine, with a thousand cups of wine, and the courtyard fragrant with song.3¡±


    ¡°But in the crowd once and again.¡±


    ¡°I look for her in vain. When all at once I turn my head, I find her there where lantern light is dimly shed.4¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed and continued, ¡°Give me your hand I¡¯ll hold.¡±


    Xie Meng paused, before answering slowly, ¡°And live with me till old.5¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡± Ji Qinyang turned his head, ¡°We¡¯ll agree on this then.¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him, smiling and promised, ¡°Ok.¡±


    Ji Qinyang only had two days of examinations. On the last day, while waiting for Xie Meng, the first snow of winter fell in Suzhou.


    White snow drifted from the heavy, grey sky. Walking out from the classroom, Xie Meng immediately saw the youth standing in the snow.


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s black hair was covered with snowflakes. He was not holding an umbrella, and his face was flawless, his smile gentle and bright.


    Xie Meng ran to him. With arms wide open, Ji Qinyang embraced him as the snow fell.


    Behind Xie Meng, Zhang Ganggang was cheering loudly, ¡°The exams are over! It¡¯s the New Year!¡±


    Qi Fei threw his schoolbag at him in scorn. Zhuo Xiaoyuan stood in the corridor, looking at the two people who were still hugging each other from a distance.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan called out to Xie Meng.


    The boy turned around.


    With angled eyes, Zhuo Xiaoyuan smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s spend the New Year together.¡±


    On New Year¡¯s Eve, Ji Qinyang arrived at Xie Meng¡¯s house early in the morning. The two of them went shopping for new year goodies, and Ji Qinyang had brought some dessert Mo Suyuan had prepared. There was a cake in the adorable shape of a bunny, and plenty of fruit tarts.


    Ji Qinyang placed one in his mouth. He hooked onto Xie Meng¡¯s neck, leaning over.


    Xie Meng looked down, biting into the edge of the tart. Ji Qinyang ate half of it, and pushed the other half into Xie Meng¡¯s mouth with his tongue.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng¡¯s mouth was now full of a buttery fragrance.


    Ji Qinyang licked his thumb. ¡°Is it delicious?¡±


    Xie Meng nodded, and Ji Qinyang kissed him on the cheek. ¡°Bring them along, we can have some on the way.¡±


    Xie Meng picked up one more and stuffed it into Ji Qinyang¡¯s mouth. Packing the rest of them up, he held the package in his hand, and they left for the market near Shantang Street. As Xie Meng was selecting the vegetables, he asked Ji Qinyang what he would like to eat.


    ¡°Anything is fine,¡± Ji Qinyang said indifferently. ¡°Don¡¯t buy too much.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed, ¡°There¡¯s no need to help save money for me.¡±


    On the way back, Xie Meng also bought some candies. When they were nearly home, they saw Zhuo Xiaoyuan holding onto Zhuo Jinjin from afar. He was waiting there with an impatient look on his face.


    ¡°Why did you guys take so long?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan complained. Seeing Xie Meng, Zhuo Jinjin immediately turned shy, her expression saying, ¡°Adonis, I love you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang responded unhappily, ¡°Why did you come so early?¡±


    Xie Meng gave Zhuo Jinjin a candy, then opened the door and welcomed the guests in.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to help.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan took over the bags from Ji Qinyang¡¯s hands. ¡°I don¡¯t sponge off people.¡±


    The three boys busied themselves in the kitchen, and only Zhuo Jinjin was left watching TV alone in the living room. Xie Meng glanced outside, then patted Zhuo Xiaoyuan on his arm. ¡°Go out and accompany your sister, Ji Qinyang and I can handle things here.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan finished washing the vegetables, and wiped the water from his hands. ¡°Another 10 minutes and the perch should be done.¡±


    Xie Meng nodded, ¡°I know.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was not assured. ¡°Cook properly, don¡¯t keep flirting with each other.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    When the dishes were ready, the little girl came over, wanting to help. Tip-toeing, she carefully carried the plate from the counter. As Xie Meng was cutting fruits, he heard a knocking on the door.


    ¡°Who else did you invite?¡± Ji Qinyang stuffed a slice of apple in Xie Meng¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Xie Meng mumbled. ¡°I¡¯ll go take a look.¡±


    Wrapped like a ball, Zhang Ganggang was standing outside the courtyard. Grinning like a fool, he shouted, ¡°Surprise!¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Let me in, let me in! I brought a lot of good food! Quick, quick help me carry some!¡±


    Xie Meng looked down to see him carry two big lunch boxes. Ji Qinyang followed him out, and he raised his brow when he saw Zhang Ganggang. ¡°What are you doing here? You¡¯re not spending the New Year at home?¡±


    After putting his things down, Zhang Ganggang removed his clothes one by one. ¡°I¡¯ve talked to my mother about it already. Look! These were all made by her!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan opened the lunch boxes and was nearly blinded. In it were all sorts of food, encapsulating items from land, air and sea. Zhuo Jinjin grabbed onto the edge of the table, wanting to take a look as well, and was carried up by Zhang Ganggang.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan spoke, resigned. ¡°We¡¯ve cooked in vain.¡±


    Xie Meng hesitated. ¡°Shall I invite a few more people over?¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed, ¡°It¡¯s the New Year. Who would come?¡±


    In the end, just as he finished speaking, the courtyard gate that had not been closed properly was once again pushed open from outside.


    Carrying flowers and wine, Han Dong was taken aback when he entered the house. ¡°There¡¯s so many people here?¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him and could not help laughing. ¡°Shall we call Qi Fei over too?¡±


    By the time Qi Fei arrived, the five people had already started eating. The flowers Han Dong brought was placed in front of Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s portrait. They did not plan on finishing the wine, but shared a bottle of juice.


    Zhuo Jinjin was very happy to see Qi Fei. The two of them played a clapping game at the dinner table. Zhuo Xiaoyuan watched his sister, occasionally placing food in her bowl.


    Zhang Ganggang asked him, ¡°Where are you planning to study?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan replied, ¡°Shanghai, probably. It¡¯s nearby, and I can take care of my sister.¡±


    Qi Fei interrupted, ¡°Staying in Suzhou is more convenient.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s not good medical school in Suzhou¡­ Next year, my mom can come back and take care of Jinjin. I¡¯ll go to Shanghai to study, and I can come home during the weekends.¡±


    Han Dong eyed Zhang Ganggang. ¡°Where will you be going?¡±


    Mustering his courage, Zhang Ganggang gave him a side-eye. ¡°Why should I tell you?!¡±


    Han Dong narrowed his eyes. Before he could speak, Ji Qinyang answered for Zhang Ganggang. ¡°He wants to get into the Communication University of Beijing. So, our future little reporter?¡±


    ¡°My dream isn¡¯t that simple!¡± Zhang Ganggang spoke proudly. ¡°I want to be a famous reporter, and become China¡¯s number one photographer!¡±


    Xie Meng was encouraging. ¡°Then you have to work hard. Did you bring your camera?¡±


    Just last year, Zhang Ganggang had finally saved enough money to buy a DSLR, and wished that he could carry it along with him everyday just like it was a treasure.


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t mention it, I¡¯d have nearly forgotten.¡± Zhang Ganggang happily took out his camera kit. Adjusting the lens, he pointed it at Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng. ¡°Come, take a photo.¡±


    Ji Qinyang smoothly put his arm around Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders. The two put their heads close together for Zhang Ganggang to take a shot.


    ¡°Awesome!¡± Zhang Ganggang showed them the photo, exclaiming, ¡°You guys are really too good-looking. You guys look perfect together.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Despite knowing that he was just complimenting them innocently, Xie Meng was still a little embarrassed.


    In contrast, Ji Qinyang was cheekier. He touched Xie Meng¡¯s ear stud and agreed, ¡°I think so too.¡±


    The expression on the other three boys could be identified as cursing him for putting his love on display for the single people around. Only Zhang Ganggang was foolishly happy after being praised.


    ¡°Help us take a photo too.¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan was hugging Zhuo Jinjin. The little girl smiled sweetly, giving a ¡°V¡± sign, and the boy lowered his head, kissing his sister¡¯s face.


    Zhang Ganggang captured this image.


    ¡°The man of iron is actually tender huh.¡± Qi Fei ridiculed him as he looked at the photo. Zhuo Xiaoyuan shot him a look, laughingly asking him to scram.


    Xie Meng took out the fireworks Zhuo Xiaoyuan had brought. Placing the big ones in the courtyard, he lit them, while letting Zhuo Jinjin hold onto the small ones. Zhang Ganggang raised his camera, snapping away. Qi Fei wanted a jump shot, and only succeeded after a few tries with the resplendent fireworks in the background.


    Xie Meng and Zhuo Jinjin both held onto sparklers. Ji Qinyang stood by the side, looking at him tenderly.


    ¡°Do you want to play too?¡± Xie Meng looked up, asking him. Ji Qinyang could not resist, and bent over to kiss the boy on his forehead.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­ Jinjin is still around.¡±


    The little girl¡¯s eyes almost disappeared with her smile. Wrinkling her nose and sticking her tongue out, she said, ¡°Qinyang-gege is shameful~¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised his brow. Lifting Zhuo Jinjin up, he placed her on his neck. The little girl cheered, waving the sparkler in her hand.


    In the distance, Zhuo Xiaoyuan lit the biggest fireworks.


    Han Dong looked up at the explosion in the sky. The bright colours reflected on his well-defined face. Unconsciously, Zhang Ganggang picked his camera up and took a shot.


    Han Dong turned around, and the boy¡¯s lens was still pointed towards him.


    ¡°Um¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang stuck his head out from behind the camera, suggesting, ¡°Want to try smiling?¡±


    Han Dong did not speak. A moment later, he smiled at Zhang Ganggang¡¯s camera.


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Smiling, Han Dong asked, ¡°Are you going to take the photo?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Zhang Ganggang quickly adjusted the focal length. He hesitated a little before pressing the shutter. Han Dong waited for him to finish taking the shot before turning his head back to the fireworks, and Zhang Ganggang sneakily went back to the photo he took just now.


    In the photo, Han Dong¡¯s smile glowed gently with the reflection from the brilliant fireworks. His eyes seemed to pierce through the lens, looking straight into Zhang Ganggang¡¯s eyes.


    There were too many fireworks. The six of them played for an entire two hours before they finished them. After cleaning up the courtyard, with the lights from the house, they carried a square table out to play mahjong.


    After 8pm, Zhuo Jinjin started feeling sleepy. The little girl¡¯s head was already nodding away, but she refused to go to bed. Zhuo Xiaoyuan carried her inside, and Xie Meng prepared a hot water bottle and handed it to him.


    ¡°Go and play,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan carried his sister and whispered. ¡°I¡¯ll accompany her.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled, ¡°It¡¯s fine, Zhang Ganggang is there.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was amused. Xie Meng took a new quilt, making a bed for the siblings. Hugging her brother¡¯s neck, Zhuo Jinjin mumbled something. Zhuo Xiaoyuan carried her and lay down, pressing their foreheads together and spoke gently, ¡°Happy New Year.¡±


    Xie Meng motioned that he was going to go out. Zhuo Xiaoyuan nodded, and mouthed, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Xie Meng closed the door for Zhuo Xiaoyuan. When he went out, he saw Ji Qinyang waiting for him in the living room.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you playing mahjong?¡± Xie Meng asked curiously.


    Ji Qinyang shrugged, ¡°I asked them to go play cards.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    He laughed and shook his head, ¡°You¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang hugged him from the back. ¡°Let¡¯s watch the Spring Festival Gala.¡±


    Xie Meng agreed. He took another quilt out, and the two of them covered themselves on the couch, watching TV. Chatting and laughing together, midnight slowly approached. From the courtyard, Zhang Ganggang could be heard shouting loudly, ¡°Zha!¡±


    Following the countdown of the Spring Festival Gala, exploding firecrackers could be heard from outside the courtyard.


    Ji Qinyang hooked his arm around Xie Meng¡¯s neck. The two of them exchanged a kiss, leaning their foreheads against each other.


    ¡°Happy New Year.¡± Xie Meng smiled, speaking softly.


    ¡°Happy New Year.¡± Ji Qinyang kissed his lips again. ¡°I love you.¡±

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    The weather would not warm up immediately after the New Year. The cold would still last for more than a month, and so, the students who had returned to school were still depressed.


    Maitreya started distributing exam papers the moment he entered the classroom early in the morning. He completely ignored the dissent of the class, joyfully garnering hatred. ¡°Even if you¡¯re frozen to death, you¡¯ll still need to sit the exams. Hurry! Take out your pens!¡±


    There were four classes in the morning. After the math exam was the language exam. Even for students like Xie Meng, they too had a headache at the end of it.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan did not even have the strength for lunch at noon. He lay upon his table, exclaiming, ¡°I¡¯m completely suffering¡­ Finally, I feel like I¡¯m about to take the college entrance examinations.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was breaking apart his chopsticks. Trying for a long time, he was still unsuccessful. Qi Fei rolled his eyes, impatiently stretching out his hand. ¡°Give them to me!¡±


    ¡°So fierce¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang muttered. ¡°Look at how No. 1 Beauty is so gentle to Mengmeng. Mama Qi, shouldn¡¯t you learn from him?¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng was amused. ¡°When did I become Mengmeng?¡±


    Ji Qinyang placed a chicken drumstick into Xie Meng¡¯s bowl. ¡°Ignore him. Recently, he¡¯s been getting addicted to giving people nicknames.¡±


    ¡°This is called developing feelings!¡± Zhang Ganggang said righteously. ¡°We¡¯re going to be separated after graduation. How can we not leave any beautiful memories before that happens?!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan narrowed his eyes. ¡°Leaving a stupid nickname?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang looked at him, angry. ¡°Shut up, Ironman Zhuo!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan, ¡°¡­¡±


    It was rare that they did not have to study during noon. They could rest from 12pm till 1.30pm, and Ji Qinyang went to the music room to practice on the piano with his music book.


    Sitting by the window, Xie Meng did some exam practice. He would occasionally look at Ji Qinyang, and the boy had his back facing him with his headphones on. Bent over the piano keys, he was writing on his book. Often, he would play a snippet of a melody, and revised and played it repeatedly.


    In that moment, Ji Qinyang had a rare solemn and serious look on his face, even exuding a sense of loneliness as though he was isolated from the outside world. Xie Meng listened to every individual note, slowly coming together to form an unfamiliar melody. The air around him rose and sank, gathering into a magnificent sea, and the tide gently curled around his ears and heart.


    When the bell rang in the afternoon, Ji Qinyang did not hear it. He had his headphones on, making the final edits to his music. By the time he snapped out of his focus, he discovered that two classes had already passed.


    ¡°You¡¯re done?¡± Xie Meng only closed his book after seeing him turn his head. The boy stretched, a smile on his face. ¡°We can still catch the third class if we head back now.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± It did not matter if Ji Qinyang attended class or not. He frowned, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me?¡±


    Xie Meng dusted his trousers off. ¡°It¡¯s a rare chance to skip classes¡­ and it was also just a good private concert.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. He rubbed at his nose before hanging his headphones around his neck.


    After Xie Meng tidied up his books, he looked up to see Ji Qinyang standing right in front of him.


    ¡°?¡±


    Ji Qinyang suddenly reached out and pulled the blue curtains behind him. Unconsciously taking a step back, Xie Meng was now against the wall, and Ji Qinyang¡¯s arm was beside his cheek.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang placed his palm onto Xie Meng¡¯s chest, mumbling, ¡°Your heart¡¯s beating really fast.¡±


    Xie Meng opened his mouth, wanting to object. Ji Qinyang lowered his head.


    At first, the boy only sniffed gently, the tip of his nose brushing against Xie Meng¡¯s neck. Next was his cheek, his temples¡­ Ticklish, Xie Meng evaded him, and could neither laugh nor cry. ¡°What do you want exactly¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. He pressed a little harder on Xie Meng¡¯s chest, speaking to himself. ¡°These all belong to me.¡±


    Xie Meng looked at him.


    Ji Qinyang stroked Xie Meng¡¯s hair, his palm heated. He squeezed himself between Xie Meng¡¯s legs, pushing him right up onto the wall. Without thinking, Xie Meng pulled the curtain to cover the both of them, and Ji Qinyang leaned down to kiss his lips.


    It felt as though the needle of youth slowed slightly for a second, stretching out the teenagers¡¯ secret kiss behind the curtain.


    Xie Meng only returned to the classroom for the last class of the day. Zhuo Xiaoyuan frowned when he saw him.


    ¡°You guys need to be more careful.¡± He pulled out a wet wipe from his desk and handed it to Xie Meng, ¡°Your lips are all swollen¡­¡±


    Xie Meng apologised, covering his lips with the wipe. It even caused Maitreya to come over in concern, ¡°Are you still feeling unwell? Don¡¯t force yourself, just go back and rest.¡±


    Sitting by the side, Zhuo Xiaoyuan nearly vomited blood. He muttered, ¡°How lucky to be a good student, one can even abuse single people openly.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    As the weather gradually warmed up, Xie Meng went with Ji Qinyang to sweep Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s tomb during the Qingming Festival. The bus journey took the entire morning before they arrived at Dongshan. They then cleaned up the tombstone, kowtow-ed, and burned the joss papers offerings.


    As the smoke curled up, Ji Qinyang placed his hands together, closing his eyes. While burning joss papers, Xie Meng looked up at him.


    ¡°What did you say to Grandma?¡± Xie Meng asked as they walked down the hill.


    It rained just before the Qingming Festival. The tea fields of Dongshan were lush and green, with a lake in the distance. The scent of tea wafted over with the wind.


    ¡°Nothing much.¡± Ji Qinyang walked amidst the rows of juniper trees. He reached his hand out to Xie Meng, smiling. ¡°I told her I¡¯d take good care of you.¡±


    Xie Meng too smiled, and he held Ji Qinyang¡¯s hand.


    The number of people walking down the hill gradually increased. Seeing the two boys holding hands, they were a little curious. Some elders called out to them kindly. ¡°Are you two brothers? Whose tomb are you sweeping?¡±


    ¡°My grandma.¡± Ji Qinyang did not explain their relationship, and Xie Meng too did not mention it. They politely nodded towards the old man who asked.


    At the foot of the hill was a town. Many tea farmers lived in Dongshan, and their houses were scattered in various places, surrounded by fields and ponds. The freshly turned earth was still damp, and under the ridge was a water canal that looked clear and fresh.


    Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang walked along the only road. Some of the farmhouses had loquat trees planted outside, all tall and sturdy. There were fruits, but none were ripe. Green and dainty, they looked adorable.


    Outside the town was a lake. Willows grew along the bank, and the reeds had yet to turn yellow. Crowds of ducks swam among them.


    Holding onto Xie Meng¡¯s hand, Ji Qinyang placed it in his own pocket.


    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful.¡± Xie Meng looked at the fishing boat in the distance.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°When we¡¯re old, we¡¯ll buy a lakehouse here and live together.¡±


    Xie Meng shook his head. Laughing, but not speaking, he slowly walked back with Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for a lakehouse.¡± Under the setting sun, Xie Meng looked down the road, speaking slowly. ¡°It¡¯s enough that we can still return here when we¡¯re old.¡±


    After Mangzhong, the sign for the countdown to the college entrance examination at the back of the classroom was in its single digits. Every day, Zhang Ganggang would have to turn and look at it a few times, making Qi Fei stressed as well.


    As the only one out of their group who would be staying in Suzhou, it could be said that after Ji Qinyang, Qi Fei was having the easiest time of all. As such, he truly turned into Mama Qi, becoming Zhang Ganggang¡¯s trash can.


    No matter how nervous he was about the examination, Zhang Ganggang never stopped thinking about his goddess Rourou. Qi Fei could not stimulate him casually, just in case it affected his exam mood.


    On the last day of school, the entire grade had a pledge ceremony.


    As the representative of their grade, Xie Meng was in charge of going on stage to give a speech to boost his classmates¡¯ morale. The speech was written by a literature student that Maitreya had asked. Only when reading till the end did Xie Meng realised the signature there read Ji Qinyang.


    The boy paused, looking down the stage. Sure enough, Ji Qinyang was also looking at him from a distance away. When their eyes met, Ji Qinyang raised a brow, giving on a pretty, cheeky smile.


    Xie Meng could not help chuckling. He slowly recited the last paragraph of the speech.


    ¡°We¡¯ll soon go our separate ways, starting our different lives. The road ahead will be full of thorns and roses. We might fail, and we might succeed.¡±


    Standing below the stage, Ji Qinyang silently recited each word along with Xie Meng.


    ¡°Although we¡¯ll face countless losses and choices in life, there will always be love and dreams to tell you¡ª¡±


    Xie Meng looked around, carefully putting down the speech in his hands.


    ¡°Tell you, where the path lies.¡±


    After the ceremony, all the students were very moved, and there were even girls huddling together, crying. With red eyes, Wu Xiaomei complained about Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng. ¡°Why did you write something so sentimental¡­ I¡¯m going to be reluctant to part.¡±


    ¡°Who said anyone will be parting?¡± Qi Fei winked at the both of them. ¡°Yang-ge has already said it, love and dreams! Right, boss?!¡±


    Ji Qinyang kicked him, throwing an arm around Xie Meng¡¯s shoulder.


    Xie Meng laughed and watched them make a scene. Zhang Ganggang came over with his camera, saying that he wanted to capture shots of the school for his memories. As such, the few people once again became temporary ¡°models¡±.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuna and Xie Meng sat at the desks, one in front of the other. To create a studious atmosphere, they even stacked books on the table. Qi Fei wanted a shot with Ji Qinyang on the basketball court, and they got Zhang Ganggang to capture the photos while they played against each other. In the end, they were too serious about the game, and forgot to look at the lens¡­ Ji Qinyang had a solo shot of himself in the music room, playing the piano. There was a shot of Xie Meng¡¯s side profile, sitting by the window, reading. Another had Qi Fei wiping his sweat with his shirt off as he was too warm after the basketball game. Zhuo Xiaoyuan hung off the horizontal bar, upside down, giving a victory sign towards the camera.


    In the heat of summer, the rays of the afternoon sun shone through the lush leaves and branches, casting mottled shadows along the main path in the school. Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng were holding hands while Zhang Ganggang captured the images from behind them.


    Youth within the lens was not aged, and time too gentled the faces of the young people.


    Accompanied by the chirping June cicadas, the last bell of the college entrance examination finally rang. Xie Meng followed the crowd out of the examination hall, and Ji Qinyang was waiting outside with his headphones on.


    From a large distance away, Zhang Ganggang waved his arms wildly. ¡°Here! Here!¡±


    Xie Meng walked over, smiling. Zhuo Xiaoyuan and Qi Fei had yet to exit the hall.


    ¡°We¡¯re free!¡± Zhang Ganggang did not wait for Xie Meng to come closer before lunging towards him. ¡°Let¡¯s go on a graduation trip! A graduation trip!¡±


    Xie Meng laughed. ¡°Our results are not even out, and you¡¯re already thinking about playing. Seems like you¡¯ve done pretty well in the exam?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang giggled. From the corner of his eyes, he saw Qi Fei coming over, and so he shouted, ¡°Mama Qi! Here!¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked at Xie Meng, smiling lazily. ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you.¡±


    Xie Meng reached out and ruffled the hair behind his head. ¡°You too.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was the last to exit the hall. The four people were discussing where they should go as they waited for him.


    ¡°We should go somewhere closer,¡± Ji Qinyang said. ¡°If it¡¯s too far, it won¡¯t be very convenient for Xie Meng and Zhuo Xiaoyuan.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan raised his brow. ¡°Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai wouldn¡¯t be a problem.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang said enthusiastically, ¡°Shall we go to all these places then?¡±


    Qi Fei spoke up. ¡°We should go to the beach in the summer. Ningbo Xiangshan will be nice.¡±


    ¡°We can go to Changzhou Dinosaur Park! And eat Yangzhou soup bun!¡± Zhang Ganggang shouted. ¡°Dinosaur Park! Soup bun! Dinosaur Park! Soup bun!¡±


    ¡°Yangzhou, Changzhou, Ningbo,¡± Ji Qinyang declared. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll go to these three places then. Tonight I¡¯ll go back and check which route is the most convenient. You¡¯ll all start packing, and we¡¯ll leave tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Cool!¡± Zhang Ganggang said excitedly, ¡°A trip where we¡¯re going so spontaneously!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was speechless, and he mocked him. ¡°Fine, you can just go. Without us, let¡¯s see how you go. You won¡¯t even know that you¡¯ve been sold.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    While packing his luggage that night, Xie Meng was on the phone with Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°I¡¯ve packed the plasters, can you bring the travel sickness pills?¡± Xie Meng retrieved the medical kit in his house, picking the items he wanted to bring.


    ¡°Sure. There¡¯s not need to bring too many clothes with you.¡± Rustling could be heard over the phone, ¡°I¡¯ve also brought medicated balm, a torch¡­ don¡¯t forget your swimming trunks.¡±


    Xie Meng stopped what he was doing. ¡°The boxer-styled ones right?¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°What are you getting worried about?¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak.


    In a very good mood, Ji Qinyang hummed. ¡°I¡¯m bringing the boxer type one. It¡¯s up to you?¡±


    Xie Meng paused, speaking deliberately, ¡°Then I¡¯ll bring the boxer-styled ones too.¡±


    Ji Qinyang chuckled for a long time.


    ¡°Have you booked the tickets yet?¡± Xie Meng asked after he was nearly done packing.


    ¡°We¡¯ll first go to Changzhou, and I¡¯ve already bought the tickets. As for the hotel¡­ how should we book for 5 people?¡±


    Xie Meng too did not think about this issue. As he was pondering over it, he heard Ji Qinyang pull his phone slightly away.


    ¡°I have a call coming in.¡± The boy seemed to have looked at his screen, his voice somewhat surprised. ¡°I¡¯ll call you again later.¡±


    Xie Meng agreed, then hung up and packed up his belongings. Cleaning Zhang Xiujuan¡¯s portrait, he lit a joss stick. In less than ten minutes, he received Ji Qinyang¡¯s call.


    ¡°The hotel and transport are all settled,¡± Ji Qinyang sounded delighted. ¡°Han Dong is joining us too¡­ Right, don¡¯t tell Zhang Ganggang about this.¡±


    Xie Meng really wanted to ask why he should not tell Zhang Ganggang, but after thinking about it, he felt it was wiser not to say anything.


    It was a rare occasion that Zhang Ganggang woke up before his alarm. With his bedhead and closed eyes, he went to wash his face. Mama Zhang was in the kitchen making egg pancakes. Through the door, she shouted with vigour, ¡°Clean up the sink! Don¡¯t spit your toothpaste onto the mirror!¡±


    She then turned to Papa Zhang. ¡°Old man, stop playing with your bird already! Come and help me pack the pancakes, quick!¡±


    Papa Zhang acknowledged her, putting down the spoon he was using to feed his bird and ran to the kitchen to give Mama Zhang a hand.


    Zhang Ganggang was done with his morning ablution. When he came out of his room, he saw Mama Zhang still stuffing his bag with food.


    ¡°It¡¯s enough, Ma,¡± Zhang Ganggang could not endure it any longer. ¡°There¡¯s only five of us, are you raising pigs¡­¡±


    ¡°A pig isn¡¯t as smart as you!¡± Mama Zhang laughed heartily. She kissed her son on his forehead heavily. ¡°Be careful! Treat your friends more often! Remember to make friends properly!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Zhang Ganggang bit into his portion of the pancakes, leaving his house. As soon as he reached the entrance of his neighbourhood, he saw an extremely large nanny van parked right there.


    Zhang Ganggang walked over with a baffled expression, leaning into the window and looking through it cautiously.


    With a sudden whir, the door opened from within.


    ¡°Woah!¡± Zhang Ganggang was startled.


    Sitting cross-legged, Han Dong removed his sunglasses and looked expressionlessly at him.


    ¡°¡­ What are you doing here?!¡±


    Han Dong cocked his brow. Before he could even speak, Qi Fei poked his head out from behind. ¡°Zhang Ganggang, what are you dilly-dallying about? Quick, get onto the bus!¡±


    ¡°Mama Qi, why are you inside too?!¡±


    Han Dong responded lightly, ¡°Because I¡¯m going with all of you.¡± He patted the seat. ¡°This nanny van belongs to my family.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    The driver was an experienced chauffeur, respectfully addressing Han Dong as Young Master. Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng were seated in the last row, and the six boys in the bus shared the pancakes Mama Zhang made.


    Extremely reluctant, Zhang Ganggang sat next to Han Dong. He turned his head away deliberately to avoid speaking to him.


    Qi Fei smacked his head from the back. ¡°What tantrum are you throwing this time?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang fumed, ¡°Neither riches nor honours can buy me!¡±


    Han Dong sneered, ¡°Did I offer to buy you?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang choked.


    Zhao Xiaoyuan responded coolly. ¡°He¡¯s just envious of you for being rich and willful.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang was furious. ¡°Ironman Zhuo, you read my Weibo again!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan enjoyed the scenery outside, pretending that he did not hear Zhang Ganggang¡¯s accusation.


    Han Dong suddenly spoke up. ¡°You have Weibo?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Zhang Ganggang watched him vigilantly. The boy suddenly thought about something, and his antagonism instantly transformed into friendliness. ¡°Right! Does Goddess Rourou have Weibo?!¡±


    Han Dong gave him a meaningful look. ¡°I¡¯m not sure either. Shall I help you ask later?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang opened his mouth, immediately sitting upright and declaring gravely, ¡°Master Han Dong!¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s expression was very serious. ¡°During this trip, I¡¯ll definitely follow after you and serve you wholeheartedly!¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°¡­¡±


    In the last row, Ji Qinyang had his arm wrapped around Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders. He placed his headphones onto Xie Meng¡¯s head. After their graduation, Ji Qinyang had replaced his previous mp3 player with a more luxurious Sony ZX1 player, and stored his completed song in it. After listening for a bit, Xie Meng turned his head to see Ji Qinyang fiddling with Xie Meng¡¯s phone.


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng asked, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled carelessly. ¡°I¡¯m downloading Weibo and WeChat onto your phone.¡±


    Xie Meng took his phone, glancing at it. ¡°There¡¯s not much memory space in my phone¡­ I¡¯ll have to replace it after a while.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard the iPhone 6s is coming out?¡± Ji Qinyang was still using the iPhone 4s, and his lock screen was the first photo he had ever taken with Xie Meng during that snowy day.


    Xie Meng laughed. ¡°You¡¯re still keeping such an old photo?¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised a brow. ¡°Because it looks good.¡±


    Xie Meng looked over it and earnestly said, ¡°You¡¯re better looking.¡±


    Clicking his tongue, Ji Qinyang spoke. ¡°Your words are getting sweeter and sweeter.¡± He uploaded the photo, then taught Xie Meng to like it and save it. Ji Qinyang too did not have many friends on his account, and everyone always liked each other¡¯s posts. It was not too long before Qi Fei, Zhuo Xiaoyuan and Han Dong all liked the photo.


    Qi Fei even left a message. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you posting it on Weibo? Shouldn¡¯t you be more professional in your PDA endeavours?¡±


    Xie Meng was extremely amused, and Ji Qinyang kicked the seat in front of him. Qi Fei howled exaggeratedly, and the entire bus burst out into laughter.


    In the end, Ji Qinyang did post the photo on Weibo, and even tagged Xie Meng.


    Zhang Ganggang shared Ji Qinyang¡¯s post. ¡°I have even more photos than you!¡±


    Xie Meng went to his main page, and there were many photos taken by Zhang Ganggang. They ranged from the snowball fight long ago, to the temple festival, then the fireworks they released during the New Year, as well as the photos they took when they graduated.


    Zhang Ganggang compiled them all into an album, naming it ¡°Times of Our Lives¡±.


    ¡°There¡¯ll be even more in the future.¡± Zhang Ganggang turned around, kneeling on the first row of seats. He raised his camera, his lens catching everyone within. ¡°Come everyone, smile!¡±


    They only need one and a half hours to travel from Suzhou to Changzhou Dinosaur Park on the Hurong Expressway. After getting off the car, Zhang Ganggang began taking photos like crazy, while the others left their bags in the bus and headed straight to the hotel.


    ¡°We¡¯ll go to China Dinosaurs Park first.¡± Han Dong had requested for a map. ¡°We can have lunch at Dinotown. Do you want to go to the hot spring in the afternoon?¡±


    Qi Fei fainted. ¡°Hot spring in the hot summer?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was indifferent. ¡°Since we¡¯re here, let¡¯s try everything.¡±


    Towards the dinosaur museum whatsoever, the boys were not very interested. Zhang Ganggang led the way to the Jet Tower.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng almost had to tilt his head all the way back to see the top of the tower.


    Qi Fei¡¯s face looked somewhat awful. ¡°I think I¡¯m a little afraid of heights¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang clenched his fist tightly. ¡°Mama Qi! Show us your papa side here!¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng, Ji Qinyang, Zhang Ganggang and Han Dong sat in a row. Ji Qinyang held Xie Meng¡¯s hand, ¡°If you can¡¯t bear it, just scream.¡±


    Xie Meng gulped. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best¡­¡±


    As their seats ascended slowly, Xie Meng could not help but look down at the ground. By the time they reached the top, the crowd below looked as small as ants.


    Seated next to Xie Meng, Zhang Ganggang already started screaming.


    ¡°Ahhh!!!!¡±


    When they dropped, Xie Meng felt that his heart was about to stop. His ears were filled with Zhang Ganggang¡¯s screams. ¡°Rourou! Rourou! I¡¯m going to die!¡±


    Han Dong could stand it no longer and roared, ¡°Shut up!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang ignored him. ¡°Rourou! I love you!!¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Rourou! Saranghaeyo!!!¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was nearly hoarse. ¡°Je t¡¯aime! Rourou! I love you! I love you I love you I love you! Ahhh!!!¡±


    Han Dong yelled, ¡°Shut up, stupid! I got it!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was so excited that he could not hear anything. After the safety bar was released, the boy still had yet to recover. He coughed as he wiped his tears, ¡°That was too invigorating¡­¡±


    Qi Fei came from another side. Supported by Zhuo Xiaoyuan, his face was green.


    Han Dong¡¯s expression too was not much better, but it did not seem like it had anything to do with a fear of heights.


    Xie Meng exhaled. ¡°You guys are too impressive¡­ We¡¯ve just arrived and you chose something so thrilling.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed lazily. ¡°Then shall we try something else? What about bumper cars?¡±


    After playing four or five rounds with a group of seven to eight years old children, Qi Fei finally recovered. When Zhang Ganggang wanted to play the 4D rollercoaster, Mama Qi refused to go even on the pain of death.


    ¡°They¡¯re essentially shortening their lives by over-indulging¡­¡± From below, Qi Fei watched Zhang Ganggang and Han Dong being tossed left and right and doing 360? flips on the roller coaster. ¡°Why did human beings invent such things to torment themselves?¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan shot him a scornful look. ¡°Why don¡¯t you say that love makes you torment yourself as well¡­ And why would people still fall in love?¡±


    Qi Fei, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang bought ice cream. When Xie Meng saw an employee selling all sorts of headgear, he could not help but glance over a few more times.


    ¡°Shall we buy one?¡± Ji Qinyang selected a pair of black cat ears and paid for it.


    Xie Meng was unable to avoid his insistent hands, and looked resignedly at Ji Qinyang.


    The boy laughed, ¡°It looks very good.¡±


    Xie Meng narrowed his eyes. He suddenly opened his mouth and meowed emotionlessly.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Xie Meng focused on his ice cream, speaking lightly. ¡°That just means thank you.¡±


    ¡°¡­ You better take off those ears,¡± Ji Qinyang said.


    Xie Meng, ¡°?


    Covering his nose, Ji Qinyang spoke slowly. ¡°I can¡¯t bear it, it¡¯s too cute.¡±


    The six people headed for the theme hotel in the dinosaur park in the afternoon. While assigning rooms, they ran into a small problem. Without any hesitation, Zhang Ganggang had clung onto Xie Meng. ¡°I want to sleep with Mengmeng!¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked a brow. He leaned against the counter, smiling lazily. ¡°No.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang looked as though he had received a hard blow¡­


    Ji Qinyang pointed at the rest. ¡°Other than Xie Meng, you can have your pick.¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I choose Mengmeng?¡± Zhang Ganggang pouted, huffing. ¡°I want Mengmeng!¡±


    ¡°Because he¡¯s not yours.¡± Ji Qinyang reached out and curled his arm around Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders, pulling him over to himself. ¡°He¡¯s mine.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Qi Fei piped up sympathetically. ¡°Forget it, just come sleep with Mama. I¡¯ll tell you a bedtime story.¡±


    Han Dong opened his mouth, his expression a little strange. He looked as though he wanted to say something, but could not say it out loud. With his bag, Zhuo Xiaoyuan came over. With a puzzled frown, he asked, ¡°What are you thinking about? Have you got the room card yet?¡±


    Han Dong glanced at him unenthusiastically.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan nagged, ¡°You don¡¯t snore or grind your teeth when you sleep, right? I can¡¯t sleep when there¡¯s sound.¡±


    Han Dong, ¡°¡­¡±


    After checking into their rooms, they went to the hot spring together. Due to the hot weather, not many people went to the hot spring, and many of the pools were empty.


    Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang soaked in the red wine pool for a bit, but as it was too warm, they ended up just sitting by the pool and soaking their feet.


    Xie Meng noticed that Ji Qinyang was indeed wearing boxer-styled trunks.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look,¡± Ji Qinyang leaned back on his arms, smiling carelessly. ¡°It took me a lot of effort to soften, but I¡¯m about to harden again when you look at it.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Unable to cry or laugh, Xie Meng ruffled Ji Qinyang¡¯s hair.


    In the evening, Qi Fei took out a pack of cards and started playing dou dizhu in the room. Ji Qinyang shuffled a few times, all because of Zhang Ganggang¡¯s mistakes. Qi Fei howled in frustration, ¡°Zhang Ganggang, do you know how to play? Why are you hiding the bomb? Growing it for the New Year?!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°One more time! One more time!¡±


    He called out to Han Dong, ¡°Master Han! I¡¯m kneeling here awaiting your guidance!¡±


    Ji Qinyang tossed his cards down, giving up his seat to Han Dong. ¡°You can take over, Xie Meng and I are going to bed.¡±


    ¡°So early?¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan raised a brow. ¡°Will you even be able to fall asleep?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak, instead pushing Xie Meng to the door. Before they left, they heard Zhang Ganggang yawning. ¡°I want to go to bed too¡­¡±


    ¡°Sleep your ass!¡± Qi Fei roared. ¡°You better get up!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± In the corridor, Xie Meng laughed. ¡°Seems like the battle will rage till dawn.¡±


    Ji Qinyang pursed his lips. ¡°Let them have their fun. They¡¯ll know what suffering is tomorrow.¡±


    Xie Meng shook his head. Taking out the room card, he opened the door. Before the door even closed, he was pulled into Ji Qinyang¡¯s arms and a kiss was pressed onto his lips. The boy was dressed in only a bathrobe, and the reaction of his lower body was obvious.


    The room had a tropical rainforest theme, and the wallpaper was printed with towering trees.


    The air conditioning was cold. Stripped bare, the two people nestled into the bed, grinding against each other, kissing non-stop.


    Xie Meng felt Ji Qinyang¡¯ hand occasionally probing behind him, but he never went further. He could not help but open his eyes, looking at Ji Qinyang. ¡°?¡±


    ¡°Your birthday falls during the end of the year.¡± Ji Qinyang kissed Xie Meng¡¯s eyes.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. He flipped over, pressing Ji Qinyang down.


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang laughed. ¡°We can do it this way too.¡±


    Xie Meng lowered his head, kissing him. He spoke lightly. ¡°It¡¯s better that you do it. I¡¯m afraid that due to my inexperience, I¡¯ll hurt you.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Ji Qinyang suddenly hugged Xie Meng tightly.


    ¡°?¡± Xie Meng stroked his head. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Ji Qinyang murmured. ¡°I just feel that you¡¯re really too cool¡­¡±


    Early next morning, other than Ji Qinyang and Xie Meng, the rest all looked like they had just returned from death. All their expressions looked as though they wanted to just die again.


    Getting onto the car, Han Dong immediately put his sunglasses on. Zhang Ganggang occupied the last row, and drooled all over himself while he was sleeping.


    ¡°You guys really went all out.¡± Xie Meng looked at them helplessly. Zhuo Xiaoyuan had went to bed at dawn, and he seemed to look a little better than the rest.


    ¡°Not me,¡± Zhuo Xiaoyuan yawned. ¡°When I left, the three of them were still playing cards, and I could hear Zhang Ganggang screaming the entire time¡­¡±


    Han Dong walked to the last row, patting awake Qi Fei who was acting as a pillow for Zhang Ganggang. ¡°I¡¯ll sit here, you can go to the front and sleep.¡±


    Qi Fei was more than happy to not have to sacrifice his thighs. Groggily, he made his way to the first row and tried to catch up on his sleep.


    Han Dong sat down, gently placing Zhang Ganggang¡¯s head on his thigh.


    Ji Qinyang raised a brow at him.


    Han Dong motioned him to remain quiet, and Ji Qinyang turned away with a smile.


    As they were somewhat late departing Changzhou, they only arrived at the hotel they booked in Yangzhou in the afternoon. They grabbed a simple meal, and then returned to their own rooms to catch up on their sleep. This time, Han Dong had arranged for him to be in the same room as Zhang Ganggang.


    Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang did not plan on sleeping so early. They hired a trishaw, and went to tour the city center of Yangzhou.


    For supper, they had hulatang, and even went to take a look at the old city gate. Taking advantage of the night, Ji Qinyang held onto Xie Meng¡¯s hand, slowly strolling down Dongguan Street.


    By the time they returned to the hotel, it was already past 10pm. Han Dong was waiting by the door of their room with his laptop, and frowned with disdain when he saw them. ¡°Showing off your love at night, aren¡¯t you afraid of getting struck by lightning?¡±


    Ji Qinyang was not bothered. ¡°If you¡¯re envious, you can show off your love too.¡±


    Han Dong¡¯s face turned cold, but he was unable to refute. His face screamed his upset.


    Xie Meng looked at them, baffled. ¡°What are you guys hinting about?¡±


    Ji Qinyang opened the door with his room card, answering lightly, ¡°Nothing¡­¡±


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ji Qinyang asked Han Dong.


    Han Dong waved his laptop. ¡°The cut-off points for the examination are out, I want to estimate our scores with Xie Meng.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was speechless. ¡°You¡¯re really good at dragging the mood down.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed and wrapped his arm around Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulders. He pushed open the door, signalling Han Dong to enter. ¡°Where do you plan on applying to?¡±


    ¡°My first choice would probably be Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications,¡± Han Dong turned his laptop on, connecting to the internet. ¡°You?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it, ¡°Renmin University of China.¡±


    Han Dong raised a brow. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be easy to get in there.¡±


    ¡°I know, but it¡¯s pretty close to Zhongyin.¡±


    Ji Qinyang was delighted. He leapt off the bed, hugging Xie Meng and gave him a big kiss.


    Han Dong¡¯s expression spelled, ¡°Enough is enough, you damn single-abusers¡­¡±


    ¡°Has your spot in Zhongyin been confirmed?¡± Han Dong asked Ji Qinyang. He entered the website and started analysing the scores.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already passed the interview, and as for my scores¡­ Even if I scored zero in Math, I¡¯ll still be able to get in.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Han Dong ground his teeth. ¡°You¡¯re even more arrogant than a curve wrecker.¡±


    Ji Qinyang shrugged gloatingly.


    After looking at the points, Xie Meng¡¯s feelings were mostly settled. He discussed with Han Dong about what they would like to major in, and tentatively decided on banking and finance.


    ¡°Your ranking in the province shouldn¡¯t be low. The other top scorers would probably choose Tsinghua or Peking, so it¡¯ll depend on how many places Renmin would give Jiangsu.¡± Han Dong made a few calculations. ¡°You should be able to make it.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s not only this option for finance. When I filled in my application form, I¡¯ve already made a few choices.¡±


    Han Dong nodded, ¡°They¡¯re all fine. With a finance degree, it¡¯ll be easier to find a job in the future. There¡¯s the tax authority, the China Banking Regulatory Commission, or if that doesn¡¯t work out, there¡¯re still banks and insurance companies.


    Xie Meng smiled, ¡°I haven¡¯t thought so far ahead.¡±


    ¡°If you want to have a firm footing in the capital, then you have to start considering all these early.¡± Han Dong finished checking before switching off his laptop. He also helped Zhang Ganggang estimate his score.


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°So how? Would that kid be able to get into media?¡±


    Han Dong revealed a rare smile. ¡°He should be fine. His hard work before the examination was not in vain.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°Next is Zhuo Xiaoyuan and Qi Fei. Qi Fei should be fine.¡±


    ¡°Zhuo Xiaoyuan wants to apply to Tongji University School of Medicine. He¡¯s probably looking at the scores tonight as well.¡± Han Dong looked at the time, ¡°I¡¯ll go to his room and ask him, you guys should head to bed first.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t stay up too late too.¡± Ji Qinyang switched off the lights in the corridor, only leaving the lights by the bed turned on. ¡°We¡¯ll be going for morning tea at the teahouse tomorrow.¡±


    Business at Yechun Teahouse in Yangzhou was bustling early in the morning. To celebrate that he was able to get into his first choice, Zhang Ganggang insisted on giving everyone a treat.


    The crab roe soup bun was the size of a plate, and when they were served, the skin was even wobbling. At first, all six of them were a little stunned, and did not know how to eat it. It was only when the waiter brought them the straws did they come to a realization.


    ¡°This is so fun¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang was completely satisfied. ¡°The ones in Suzhou are not so big.¡±


    Qi Fei¡¯s expression looked a little complicated while eating. ¡°It feels like sucking on a breast.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Zhang Ganggang looked down at the bun that looked like a breast¡­


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan was disgusted. ¡°Can you don¡¯t be so trashy? Do you want us to stop eating?¡±


    Ji Qinyang and Han Dong were unaffected. The two big eaters even asked for four servings each. Xie Meng too thought that it was delicious, and had one more.


    They had tea, soup buns, and ordered three more baskets of fried dumplings. Zhang Ganggang¡¯s heart was bleeding as he paid, mumbling, ¡°Next time I will never treat boys to a meal again¡­ They can really eat an impressive amount¡­¡±


    After breakfast, they went to Slender West Lake for a stroll. Zhang Ganggang always remembered a line from an ancient poem, ¡°West Lake here does rival the Beauty of the West. Howe¡¯er she is exquisitely or plainly dressed.1¡± And so, he ran about with his camera, snapping away.


    Ji Qinyang could not help but make fun of him. ¡°Su Shi¡¯s West Lake refers to Hangzhou¡¯s West Lake. Why are you getting all excited here?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was not bothered. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. Anyway, we¡¯re about to go to Hangzhou already. I¡¯ll take more photos there.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not going to Hangzhou¡¯s West Lake,¡± Han Dong cruelly said. ¡°We¡¯re heading straight to Ningbo Xiangshan, to the beach. You can take photos of the sea instead.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang, ¡°¡­¡±


    It would take them nearly six hours to drive from Yangzhou to Ningbo Xiangshan. As such, they moved off from Yangzhou before 10 in the morning.


    In the car, someone started singing, and Qi Fei clamoured for Ji Qinyang to sing his own song.


    ¡°I¡¯m not finished with it yet.¡± The boy stretched his arms lazily, but did not refuse. ¡°I can sing a small part though.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang had already readied his phone. ¡°Don¡¯t be shy, Number 1 Beauty! Come on!¡±


    Xie Meng turned the Bluetooth speaker on. He looked at Ji Qinyang, and the boy smiled at him.


    ¡°I remember, the snippet of the morning song.¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice was low and gentle. Zhang Ganggang held his breath, raising his phone. ¡°The setting sun dyed the hills red, and the water gradually flowed away, never looking back.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan turned his head. He looked at the scenery outside, tapping his fingers on his thigh along with the rhythm.


    ¡°The boat, drifting under the bridge.¡± Ji Qinyang smiled and sang, ¡°Plum blossoms in bloom outside the courtyard, and the sound of pipa made homesickness feel a world away.¡±


    ¡°Time moves slowly, don¡¯t wait for me; Time goes by, and who now has regrets.¡±


    The familiar chords of the chorus played, and Ji Qinyang looked at Xie Meng.


    ¡°The years move on without rest. The days pass by, tender and slow.¡±


    Xie Meng sang along, ¡°Little by little, the times never linger.¡±


    ¡°Your smile of fleeting snow, lights upon my heart.¡± Ji Qinyang harmonized with Xie Meng. ¡°Little by little, hidden under the times of our lives.¡±


    When they arrived at Xiangshan, it was already evening time. Zhang Ganggang was still looking at the video he recorded of Ji Qinyang singing. The others had saved the original version into their own phones, and like Xie Meng, used it as their ringtone.


    ¡°Yang-ge, you¡¯ll definitely become famous.¡± Qi Fei suddenly said earnestly after listening to the song one more time.


    Ji Qinyang punched him. ¡°I plan on working behind the scenes, and not as a singer. It doesn¡¯t matter if I¡¯m famous or not. I¡¯ll just let my work speak for me.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was a little surprised. ¡°You¡¯re not going to be a singer? Isn¡¯t it better to be a singer-songwriter¡­ Number 1 Beauty, that completely would not be a problem for you!¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, not saying a word. Zhuo Xiaoyuan tapped Zhang Ganggang¡¯s head. ¡°A person should try to be low-profile, alright? You think everyone wants to be famous?¡±


    Xie Meng¡¯s eyes fell onto Ji Qinyang¡¯s face. The boy¡¯s smile was unconcerned, gentle and beautiful.


    The hotel they booked was located near the ancient city of Shipu Fishing Port. After putting their luggage in their rooms, they went to explore the ancient city. As they were near the sea, the summer breeze that blew upon their faces carried along the scent of the sea.


    The stairs of the city zigzagged upwards, with old wooden houses on both sides. Fishermen hung rows of conchs under their eaves, and planted flowers within.


    Zhang Ganggang looked for a spot to take photos. Standing on a tall platform, Han Dong looked down. Next to him, Qi Fei exclaimed, ¡°It¡¯s truly a place with a long history.¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked at the merchant branches carved on the stone tablets. ¡°Mn, it¡¯s really nice here.¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan wanted to buy a conch for Jinjin, and Xie Meng helped. After a lot of deliberations, they finally settled on one.


    Dinner that night was all seafood. Clams, oysters, all sorts of shellfish, and squid. Zhang Ganggang was eating and scratching away, and his arms were all red from scratching. Han Dong had no choice, returning to grab the ointment and applying it for him.


    After dinner, Qi Fei made noise about going to the seaside. Ji Qinyang was worried that they would not be able to see clearly in the dark, and even brought a torch along. They did not expect that there would be many fishing boats on the sea, each with lanterns hung on the masts, moored quietly. With stars scattered across the sky, it was as beautiful as an ancient painting.


    The sky gradually got darker. The sounds of the waves were unceasing, breaking upon the shore.


    The boats swayed along with the waves, the lanterns just like stars, shimmering in the dark sea.


    Zhang Ganggang asked the fishermen for a few lanterns, and piled up sand by the shore, with Han Dong crouching down and watching by the side. Zhuo Xiaoyuan and Qi Fei were playing in the waves nearby. As it was too dark, they could not see clearly, and ended up drinking a fair bit of seawater each time. Qi Fei¡¯s shouts could be heard even in the distance.


    With a lantern, Ji Qinyang stood on the rocks, smiling and extending his hand to Xie Meng.


    They walked to the bottom of Xiangshan. Pulling Xie Meng along, Ji Qinyang sat down at a higher spot. The sound of the waves crashing upon the rocks made Xie Meng look down. Very close to them was a fishing boat. The sky was very dark, and the lantern on the fishing boat was the only thing that gentled the savage sea.


    Ji Qinyang laughed, ¡°The late song of the fishing boat.¡±


    Xie Meng made a rare joke. ¡°Are you getting inspired for lyrics now? Do you need pen and paper?¡±


    Ji Qinyang pinched his face. ¡°Do I still need inspiration? Huh?¡±


    Xie Meng laughed and evaded him, only to have Ji Qinyang catch both his hands. Their fingers intertwined, and they kissed intimately surrounded by the song of the sea.


    ¡°As long as I¡¯m with you,¡± Ji Qinyang pressed their foreheads together. ¡°I can write the most beautiful songs.¡±


    Xie Meng hugged him, laughing. ¡°In this point, boys who study science are at a disadvantage.¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised a brow. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t write poems, nor can we sing.¡± Xie Meng thought over it. He looked at Ji Qinyang, pointing at his own chest. ¡°I only have a heart that loves you, will that be enough?¡±


    Ji Qinyang¡¯s mouth fell open, and he could not speak for some time.


    Xie Meng kissed his face. ¡°I¡¯ll tear through all brambles for you, no matter the cost?¡±


    ¡°Where would you need to tear through brambles¡­¡± Ji Qinyang laughed and murmured, ¡°Just stay by me and it¡¯ll be enough.¡±


    Xie Meng did not speak. Their foreheads pressed against each other, and they looked down at the continuous surge of the sea at their feet.


    From a distance, Zhang Ganggang shouted their names. ¡°Quick, come and see what I¡¯ve written! Once the tide comes up, they¡¯ll be gone!¡±


    Ji Qinyang shouted back, ¡°What did you write?!¡±


    ¡°Youth is forever!¡± Qi Fei laughed and shouted on behalf of Zhang Ganggang.


    Zhang Ganggang shouted excitedly, ¡°There¡¯s another sentence! Another sentence!¡±


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan refused to shout it. ¡°That sentence is too cringy, ok?!¡±


    Han Dong could not resist Zhang Ganggang¡¯s pleading eyes. He could only resignedly say, ¡°We must be together forever!¡±


    On the beach, they laughed and laughed, mocking each other.


    The vibrant laughter of the youths seemed to be able to cross the endless sea, lighting up the resplendent stars in the sky.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    ¡°This is your access card to everything on the campus. The items for the military training can be collected at the Friendship Hall. Your dorm is 403¡­ Ah, do you know the Friendship Hall?¡± Mo Shanshan, in charge of receiving the new students, had a bit of trouble controlling her words. She stared at the boy, who had his head lowered and filling up the form, unable to drag her eyes away. ¡°Would you like me to take you there?¡±


    Ji Qinyang looked up. His features were handsome and delicate, and his silver ear stud glittered brightly in the sun.


    ¡°No need, xuejie1,¡± The boy smiled. ¡°I know the way.¡±


    Mo Shanshan¡¯s mouth fell open. She had been stunned by his smile, and her brain was completely blank for a second.


    Ji Qinyang completed the form, then went alone to the Friendship Hall after collecting the key to his dorm.


    Along the way, recruiting leaflets for various clubs were constantly shoved into his hands.


    After collecting the requisites, Ji Qinyang went to the dorm. As he was early, he was the only one there. Once he was nearly done packing everything away, someone entered.


    ¡°Oh, there¡¯s someone here already.¡± The person had a strong Beijing accent, and he did not have a shirt on. With bare arms, he greeted cheerily, ¡°Hi, my last name is Guo, the same Guo as Consort Yi of the Gorolo clan. I¡¯m Guo Lin¡¯an.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed, reaching out and shaking his hand. ¡°I¡¯m Ji Qinyang, the same Ji as Ji Xianlin.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an hurriedly said, ¡°Nice, we¡¯re both descendants of famous people. What a destiny.¡±


    With familiarity, he chose the bunk above Ji Qinyang, opening his bags and digging out a clean T-shirt to wear as he chattered non-stop. ¡°Hey, handsome. Where are you from?¡±


    ¡°Jiangsu¡¯s Suzhou.¡± Ji Qinyang confirmed that his things had been tidied up before locking the cabinet.


    Guo Lin¡¯an jumped down from his bunk, speaking enthusiastically. ¡°Suzhou? That¡¯s a good place. A good environment nurtures talented people, a place propitious for giving birth to great men. It¡¯s full of beautiful women there, right?¡±


    Ji Qinyang raised a brow. ¡°There¡¯s no lack of them in Beijing too.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an gave a thumbs up. ¡°This bro is too good with his words!¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed and replied, ¡°You¡¯re quite chatty yourself.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an asked him, ¡°Shall we eat together later?¡±


    ¡°Not today,¡± Ji Qinyang picked up his wallet and phone. ¡°I¡¯ve an appointment with someone.¡±


    Walking out of the school, Ji Qinyang found the South Fuxing Station. As he texted, he waited for the special line 4. Getting onto the bus, after 13 stops, then walking for 270 metres did he finally find Renmin University.


    Today was also the day when the freshmen would report. He walked into the school, and was once again given a pile of recruiting leaflets.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Holding his phone, Ji Qinyang looked around. His height and face were too striking, and people near and far all looked at him.


    ¡°Mingde Square.¡± Xie Meng¡¯s side was a little noisy. It seemed like someone was introducing something next to him, and he said, ¡°Hold on.¡±


    Ji Qinyang listened as Xie Meng refused politely. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to dance¡­ I¡¯m not good at singing too¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±


    ¡°Brisk business?¡± Ji Qinyang laughed and teased him. ¡°Just stay where you are, I¡¯ll come look for you.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed too, ¡°As though it¡¯s not the same for you¡­ Wait, I see you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang turned back to see Xie Meng walking towards him.


    The boy seemed to have just perspired, and part of his fringe clung to his forehead. When Xie Meng neared him, Ji Qinyang could not help but reach out and tugged his hair.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng simply brushed his hair backwards, muttering, ¡°It¡¯s grown out¡­ Time to cut my hair.¡±


    ¡°Now?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it, ¡°Sure.¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, and hugged his shoulders without a care.


    As they studied the subway in Beijing while chatting, Ji Qinyang asked after Xie Meng¡¯s dorm.


    ¡°I was alone when I left,¡± Xie Meng looked carefully at the lines on the map. ¡°I was early, so I didn¡¯t see anyone from my dorm.¡±


    He looked at Ji Qinyang. ¡°You?¡±


    ¡°I met a local. He¡¯s quite chatty, and seems pretty interesting.¡±


    ¡°People in Beijing seems to be quite talkative.¡±


    ¡°Mn. Southerners are too reserved.¡± Ji Qinyang found the nearby barber shop he looked up on his phone, then took Xie Meng¡¯s ID card to buy the subway tickets. ¡°This is good. You can just say what you¡¯re thinking about, there¡¯s no need to keep it within you.¡±


    Xie Meng acknowledged it with no rebuttal. They both got onto the subway. As there were many people in the carriage, the two openly stood very close to each other. Leaning against the wall, Ji Qinyang was almost embracing Xie Meng.


    When they were about to reach the barber shop, they received a call from Zhang Ganggang.


    ¡°This is my new number!¡± Zhang Ganggang¡¯s voice sounded very energetic on the phone. ¡°Hurry up! Save it!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright.¡± Xie Meng promised to save his number, then asked Ji Qinyang, ¡°Have your school given them to you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but I haven¡¯t swapped to it. I¡¯ll tell you later.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang was surprised. ¡°Top beauty is next to you? Why didn¡¯t you call me out to play too?¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m just going to cut my hair.¡±


    ¡°You still have to call me!¡± Zhang Ganggang was angry. ¡°My school is so far away¡­ wuwuwuwuwu¡­ But there are many pretty girls from the International Studies University next door¡­¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    After sending their coordinates to Zhang Ganggang, Xie Meng asked the barber to trim his fringe. Ji Qinyang sat by the side, seemingly considering to do something about his hair as well.


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll dye my hair.¡± Pointing at his head, he asked Xie Meng, ¡°What colour do you like?¡±


    Xie Meng considered it, then answered with some trouble. ¡°It feels like everything suits you¡­¡±


    With a good mood, Ji Qinyang smiled, ¡°But you still need to choose one.¡±


    The barber standing behind them was amused as well, and he suggested, ¡°What about an ash tone? Your skin is fair, and your hair is naturally loose and light. This colour will definitely look very nice.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. He seemed to have decided to let Xie Meng make the choice. The latter was not sure. He looked at many photos, then after comparing them for some time, he finally decided. ¡°Let¡¯s go with this then¡­ What about your hairstyle?¡±


    The barber looked in the mirror. ¡°Any hairstyle will do, the structure of your friend¡¯s face is really too perfect.¡±


    Xie Meng finally picked a style that will reveal his forehead for Ji Qinyang. His fringe was swept towards the back, a little ruffled and tasteful looking. When everything was done, even the stylist could not help but bring the camera over, taking a photo with Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°Will I get any advertising fees?¡± Ji Qinyang joked. He patted away the stray hair on his clothes, tilting his head as he looked at Xie Meng. ¡°Does it look good?¡±


    Xie Meng sighed, ¡°It looks too good. I¡¯m a little regretful choosing this style for you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked a brow. When no one was paying attention to them, he leaned into Xie Meng¡¯s ears and whispered, ¡°Then hide me away. I¡¯m more than willing to have that happen.¡±


    Xie Meng let out a laugh, helplessly ruffling the boy¡¯s styled hair.


    Zhang Ganggang lost his wits when he saw Ji Qinyang. Mulling over it for a long while, he finally said something profound. ¡°As expected, the hairstyle is not what¡¯s important. Being good looking is still king.¡±


    ¡°King your ass.¡± Ji Qinyang flicked his forehead unceremoniously.


    After eating, the three of them headed to the supermarket. Xie Meng bought some necessities, and when making the payment, he saw Ji Qinyang selecting some lip balm at the counter.


    ¡°Why are you looking at that?¡± He leaned over and discovered that the boy had also purchased hand cream and moisturizer.


    ¡°I got them for you. You¡¯ve only just arrived, so you¡¯re probably not used to needing them.¡±


    Xie Meng stared at the lip balm. ¡°I need to apply this too?¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡± Ji Qinyang paid, removing the packaging and unscrewing the cap. ¡°Open your mouth, ahh¡ª¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang applied it for him, then wiped the excess from the corner of his lips with the tip of his finger as he indicated Xie Meng to close his mouth.


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng, ¡°It feels weird.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed, ¡°It¡¯ll be fine once you get used to it.¡±


    He helped Xie Meng put the lip balm and hand cream away, and when he was done, he found that Xie Meng was still looking at him.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you applying any?¡± Xie Meng asked.


    Ji Qinyang raised a brow. He lifted up the shopping bag to block their faces, then swiftly lowered his head and kissed Xie Meng.


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°Now I¡¯ve applied it.¡±


    Just like usual, Zhang Ganggang bought a pile of snacks and instant noodles. When he saw the lip balm in Xie Meng¡¯s hand, he was not at all astonished. ¡°Oh, this? Young Master Han bought them all for me already.¡±


    ¡°Han Dong?¡± Xie Meng was puzzled. ¡°You¡¯ve met him already?¡±


    Zhang Ganggang pursed his lips. ¡°It was him who sent me to my school for reporting. Ugh, rich people, just arriving at Beijing and he already has a car¡­ You know, the roads here are so packed. Tsk, it¡¯s really a big city.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Ganggang continued gleefully, ¡°We have a car now if we want to explore Beijing. Like that Sanlitun, Zhongguancun, and Wudaokou?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it,¡± Ji Qinyang burst his dreams. ¡°The traffic in those places are even worse. We won¡¯t be able to play if we drive, all we¡¯ll do is sit on the roof of the car and admire the scenery.¡±


    Zhang Ganggang¡¯s school was further away. Once they were done with dinner, he had to go first. Ji Qinyang sent Xie Meng back to his school, and the two of them strolled within the campus for a while.


    ¡°I¡¯ll accompany you to your dorm.¡± Ji Qinyang caught hold of Xie Meng¡¯s hand, swinging it. ¡°Once I know the way, I can go look for you directly.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled, ¡°I¡¯ll just go look for you at Zhongyin next time.¡±


    ¡°Sure, Block 6, Room 403. You¡¯re welcome to stay overnight.¡±


    Xie Meng was speechless. ¡°There has to be space for me to sleep in the first place.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak. He acted, throwing a qinna move. Xie Meng reacted very quickly, turning his hands and pushing back. The two of them exchanged over ten moves, and neither was able to win the other.


    ¡°Your progress is really very fast,¡± Xie Meng exclaimed. ¡°In a while more, I¡¯ll probably not be able to beat you.¡±


    Ji Qinyang kneaded Xie Meng¡¯s neck. ¡°An accomplished disciple owes his thanks to his teacher.¡±


    Xie Meng laughed as he shook his head, ¡°A teacher can only lead the way, while it¡¯s up to the student to practice.¡±


    ¡°How can I not work hard?¡± Ji Qinyang threw an arm over Xie Meng¡¯s shoulders. In the faint darkness, he kissed Xie Meng¡¯s temple. ¡°After all, I¡¯m your man.¡±


    Ji Qinyang only returned to his dorm a couple minutes before the curfew. ¡°Yo,¡± Guo Lin¡¯an noticed him.


    ¡°You¡¯re back from your date?¡± Guo Lin¡¯an leaned halfway out from his bunk, and paused when he saw him. ¡°Your new hairstyle has made you way too good looking.¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled. He looked at the two new people in the dorm.


    ¡°Di Lin.¡± On the bed near the door, a boy introduced himself with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m from Chongqing, Sichuan. Where you from?¡±


    Ji Qinyang was amused by his accent. ¡°Suzhou.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s pretty close to me.¡± A boy on the bed furthest from the door came down, shaking hands with Ji Qinyang. ¡°I¡¯m Bai Xingtian, from Ningbo, Zhejiang.¡±


    Ji Qinyang cocked a brow. ¡°What a coincidence, I just went to Xiangshan for a vacation over the break.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fun, right?¡± Bai Xingtian smiled somewhat proudly. ¡°A coastal city, with the songs of fishermen in the dusk. Doesn¡¯t it feel extra special?¡±


    ¡°Mn. It¡¯s really a nice place,¡± Ji Qinyang responded.


    Bai Xintian, ¡°I live close by. Come over and play when you¡¯re free, the seafood my mom cooks is the best.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed and agreed. They chatted for some time before Ji Qinyang went to shower. When he returned, he noticed his water bottle had been filled up.


    There were all sorts of snacks on the table. Ji Qinyang even saw a jar that looked like it contained pickled vegetables.


    Di Lin got up to drink water, explaining, ¡°My mom made that. It¡¯s so delicious that it¡¯ll make your tongue fall out.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Ji Qinyang raised the jar in his hand. He returned to his bed and saw Guo Lin¡¯an grinning at him.


    ¡°What?¡± Ji Qinyang shut his eyes lazily as he lay on his arm. ¡°What time are we reporting to the training base tomorrow?¡±


    Bai Xintian, ¡°We¡¯ll gather at 6.30am, and it¡¯ll be a day of exercise.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an continued, ¡°How is it only just one day? It¡¯s two full weeks of training training training training training.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still missing one week of training,¡± Di Lin said seriously. ¡°Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck2!¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°¡­¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an laughed till he almost fell out of bed. ¡°Hahahaha, how are you this funny?¡±


    Di Lin blushed, responding a little gloomily. ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡±


    Bai Xintian, ¡°Hahahahaha!3¡±


    All four were now wide awake with laughter. Guo Lin¡¯an sat up, cross-legged. ¡°Come come, let¡¯s talk about you, handsome boy, first.¡±


    ¡°What is there to talk about?¡± Amusement could be heard in Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice. ¡°Also, I¡¯m not the only handsome one around.¡±


    Bai Xintian agreed. ¡°Di Lin is also very good looking. They say that Sichuan produces good looking people¡­ Xiao Di, do you have a girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°In my dreams.¡± Di Lin was gloomy. ¡°I look too delicate, and all the girls scorn me.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an started being cheeky again. ¡°Come here, come here, Guo Guo won¡¯t scorn you.¡±


    Di Lin laughed, asking him to fuck off. After a moment, he continued, ¡°Who has a girlfriend here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m single,¡± Guo Lin¡¯an raised his hand. ¡°My name is Forever Alone.¡±


    Before Ji Qinyang could speak, Guo Lin¡¯an shouted. ¡°Handsome boy, I know you have a girlfriend. If you¡¯re going to show it off, you¡¯re not allowed to say anything!¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed, ¡°Then there¡¯s really nothing much to say.¡±


    ¡°What about Bai Xingtian?¡± Di Lin ignored the pained howls of Guo Lin¡¯an. ¡°I remember that there was a beautiful girl accompanying you when you just arrived here.¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡± Bai Xingtian did not deny it, admitting generously. ¡°She¡¯s my girlfriend, and she got into the Central Academy of Drama this year.¡±


    Ji Qinyang , ¡°You¡¯ve been together since high school?¡±


    Bai Xingtian smiled, ¡°Yes. We both agreed to apply to the arts schools together, and that if we meet with any difficulties, we¡¯ll hold on together. It won¡¯t been easy, but we both love each other very much.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an hugged his head as he rolled about on the bed. ¡°Are you guys abusing singles here¡­ Can we even play happily together now?! I also want someone to accompany me and strive together!¡±


    Di Lin roared, ¡°What are you being long-winded about?! I¡¯ve already been scorned for three years already! I¡¯m single too!¡±¡±


    Bai Xingtian turned and asked Ji Qinyang. ¡°What about you? Did you guys started dating in high school too?¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡± Ji Qinyang smiled in the dark. ¡°But he¡¯s smarter than me, he got into Renmin University.4¡±


    Bai Xingtian, ¡°It¡¯s already very lucky that you guys are in the same city. ¡°I had quite a number of couples in my class who broke up after the college entrance examination.¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not speak, raising his arm to cover his forehead. Di Lin and Guo Lin¡¯an were still making a fuss, and after listening to them for a while, he took his phone out and held it in front of him.


    Xie Meng had sent a text a minute ago. ¡°I¡¯m unable to fall asleep yet¡­ The entire dorm is very excited. You?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the same here,¡± Ji Qinyang replied. ¡°When do you start your military training?¡±


    ¡°They said it¡¯ll be on the second day of the month, and we¡¯ll be going to Shenghua Talent Training Center.¡±


    ¡°That means we won¡¯t be able to see each other for half a month. I¡¯m going to miss you so much.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Xie Meng sent a line of ellipses.


    Ji Qinyang could not help but burst out laughing. Through the mosquito net, Bai Xingtian shook his bed. ¡°You¡¯re chatting with your girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°Mn.¡± Ji Qinyang sent his text, then opened his eyes and looked at Bai Xingtian with the help of the light from his phone. ¡°You¡¯re not texting your girlfriend?¡±


    Bai Xingtian, ¡°We¡¯re no longer that sticky with each other after being together for three years. However, I still have to call her every day.¡±


    Di Lin exploded. ¡°Fuck this shit, you¡¯re all not sleeping but here abusing us singles instead. If you¡¯re going to continue, I¡¯m going to start barking5!


    Guo Lin¡¯an, ¡°Woof woof woof woof!¡±


    Di Lin, ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    After a break of less than ten minutes, the instructor blew the whistle, signalling that it was time for the students to assemble. Ji Qinyang placed his cap back onto his head, and under the brim, it could be seen that he was dripping with sweat.


    Di Lin¡¯s fair face and soft skin was turning red under the sun. However, he was still rather energetic, and his back was pencil straight.


    The instructor paced around, surveying them. He corrected the posture of a few boys, before blowing the whistle and pointing at Ji Qinyang. ¡°You! Fall out!¡±


    Ji Qinyang stepped forward. ¡°Here!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be the flag bearer!¡±


    Ji Qinyang was surprised, and immediately answered loudly, ¡°Yes!¡±


    The instructor again pointed. ¡°Return to your position!¡±


    Ji Qinyang took a step back, and Guo Lin¡¯an, standing next to him, furtively gave him a thumbs up.


    This time, Central Conservatory of Music had only recruited about 200 new students, and less than a hundred of them were male. During the military training, they were divided into four groups, and each had only about twenty people. There was only a small number of them, and the instructor too was very strict. They would stand at position in the morning, and march in the afternoon. During their last break, Ji Qinyang could have wrung water out from his camouflage shirt.


    ¡°The benefit of learning to play in an orchestra is very apparent during such times¡­¡± Guo Lin¡¯an lay on the ground, about to melt. ¡°Both their lungs and physical fitness are top of the line.¡±


    While drinking water, Ji Qinyang turned his cap the other way around on his head. Next to him, Di Lin was memorising something that looked like a script. Guo Lin¡¯an leaned over to take a look. ¡°Speech for Freshmen¡¯s Dinner and Dance¡­ Hahahahaha why are you practicing this hahahahaha!¡±


    Di Lin¡¯s cheeks burned red, and no one could tell if it was from embarrassment or because of the sun. He folded the script close. ¡°Go ¡®way, go ¡®way. There¡¯s no need fo¡¯ ya opinion on me p¡¯actice!¡±


    ¡°Hahahahaha don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re going to read it in Mandarin?!¡± Guo Lin¡¯an was crying tears of laughter. ¡°Your way of speaking is so adorable now, why are you practicing it in Mandarin? Don¡¯t practice anymore!¡±


    Di Lin ignored him, and Ji Qinyang took the book from him for a look.


    ¡°I remember that you studied solf¨¨ge.¡± Ji Qinyang cocked a brow. ¡°Why is your Mandarin so poor?¡±


    Di Lin looked at him gloomily. ¡°I can¡¯t pronounce my L an¡¯ N proper.¡±


    Ji Qinyang, ¡°This doesn¡¯t matter. In the speech, there shouldn¡¯t be too many words with L and N.¡±


    Di Lin frowned, saying nothing.


    Guo Lin¡¯an sat up, turning solemn. ¡°Tell us the truth, is there someone mocking you because of your accent?¡±


    ¡°Aiyah, no, no.¡± Di Lin waved him off embarrassedly. He continued after a pause, ¡°Why are ya takin¡¯ it so seriously¡­ Fo¡¯get it, I won¡¯t practise ¡®nymore.¡±


    Ji Qinyang kept quiet. He saw Bai Xin Xintian walking over, and there were a few people following him.


    ¡°There are only 13 boys in the music composition faculty this year.¡± Bai Xintian sat down next to Ji Qinyang. ¡°They¡¯re from the dormitory room next door.¡±


    A taller one amongst the group spoke up first. ¡°Anyone know Ji Qinyang here?¡±


    Bai Xintian did not expect that he would ask the question so directly. Unconsciously, he looked at the boy next to him. Ji Qinyang was calmly watching Di Lin, and Di Lin froze, immediately turning his head to look at Guo Lin¡¯an.


    ¡°¡­¡± Guo Lin¡¯an coughed, sweeping his fringe coolly. ¡°Is there a reason why you¡¯re looking for me?¡±


    Bai Xintian, ¡°¡­¡±


    Di Lin, ¡°¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang covered his face with his cap, his shoulders heaving with laughter.


    ¡°¡­¡± That boy was now embarrassed. ¡°I don¡¯t have any ill intentions, it¡¯s just that I¡¯ll like to get to know him.¡± After a pause, the boy continued somewhat secretively. ¡°I have some insider news. His song was evaluated very highly by the professors, and both the preliminary and the qualifying examinations, he was the top scorer.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an patted his chest as though he was alarmed. ¡°¡­ I¡¯m too afraid to continue acting in this role anymore. The script is too high level, and my acting isn¡¯t good enough.¡±


    Ji Qinyang spoke lazily, ¡°What are you afraid of? It¡¯s not like you¡¯re expected to make it a blockbuster.¡±


    Bai Xintian could neither laugh nor cry. ¡°Alright, the two of you should stop teasing Liu Wendao now. Wendao, introduce your dorm mates.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Liu Wendao was not a shy person, and he called the other three people to join the circle. One of them sat directly between Ji Qinyang and Di Lin.


    ¡°Please excuse me.¡± That person was very thin, and his fairness could compete with Di Lin. He held his hand out to Ji Qinyang, smiling. ¡°I¡¯m Qian Mo, you must be Ji Qinyang.¡±


    Ji Qinyang shook hands with him, and only discovered that the other party was wearing circle lenses when he met his gaze.


    Qian Mo smiled slightly. He was an extremely exquisite, pretty boy. His hair was very long, and it was bundled on one of his shoulders.


    ¡°Qian Mo has always wanted to get to know you.¡± Liu Wendao laughed as he introduced him. ¡°He¡¯s very famous in 798, and he has his own band.¡±


    Qian Mo waved him off. ¡°It¡¯s not that grand.¡± Pulling out a postcard from his pocket, he handed it to Ji Qinyang.


    ¡°Bring your friends along when you¡¯re free. We¡¯re all into music, and we can get to know each other.¡±


    Xie Meng was heading towards the school cafeteria in the west zone while looking through some information for recruitment of tutors. When he flipped to the second page, an arm landed suddenly around his shoulders.


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Yu Run pushed his head closer, and was astonished when he saw the word tutor. ¡°What? We¡¯ve only just started our first year, and you¡¯re looking for a job already? Haven¡¯t you just applied for financial aid?¡±


    ¡°The financial aid only covers the school fees.¡± Xie Meng folded up the papers. ¡°I still have to earn my own living expenses.¡±


    Yu Run pursed his lips. ¡°It¡¯s really hard on you¡­ You didn¡¯t get in touch with your girlfriend the past few days?¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°I did. They¡¯re still in military training.¡±


    Yu Run, ¡°Military training is this most dangerous time. Although they say that guys and girls are trained separately, they¡¯re still able to see each other. If your girlfriend is the slightest bit attractive, she¡¯ll definitely be ogled at. You have to pay more attention.¡±


    Xie Meng smiled, remaining silent. Yu Run thought about it, and then continued uncertainly. ¡°However, you¡¯re so handsome, your girlfriend is definitely very attached to you¡­ If she¡¯s free, bring her around and let us meet her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve already said it was dangerous,¡± Xie Meng responded lightly. ¡°So why would I bring them out to meet you guys?¡±


    Yu Run, ¡°¡­ Wives of friends cannot be touched! I¡¯m very principled!¡±


    Zhang Ganggang had set up a Wechat group, adding all six of them to it. Soochow University did not go to the army camp for military training this year, and organised it on the campus grounds instead. Qi Fei was spamming non-stop, and he kept posting photos of food in the middle of the night. Zhuo Xiaoyuan was studying in a medical school in Shanghai. He had only ended his military training a few days ago, and his classes had officially started.


    Studying in Beijing, other than Xie Meng, the other three all had military training upon starting school. As such, other than Xie Meng and Zhuo Xiaoyuan¡¯s occasional messages, Qi Fei alone was posting food photos continuously.


    Finally, there was a day when Zhuo Xiaoyuan could no longer endure it.


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan: I¡¯m about to attend my lab classes¡­ Can¡¯t you have a little bit of conscience?


    Qi Fei: I posted it for Xie Mengmeng to see. Mengmeng isn¡¯t eating well in Beijing, why aren¡¯t you letting him see them?


    Xie Meng: ¡­


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan: ¡°Bullying him like this, be careful of your Boss Qi flying back to teach you a lesson!¡±


    Qi Fei: Come, come, I¡¯m lonely, empty and cold~


    Xie Meng: [Image]


    Qi Fei: ??!


    Xie Meng: The food in our school is pretty good, and there are also many cafes.


    Qi Fei: ¡­


    Xie Meng: Our class schedule isn¡¯t very tight as well. Our school¡¯s nickname is Renmin¡¯s Holidays University of China.


    Qi Fei: ¡­


    Zhuo Xiaoyuan: Hahahahaha you asked for it!


    On the last day of the military training for the Central Conservatory of Music, other than the military parade, there was also an arts performance. For the music students, the performance was like a covert large-scale concert. Representing the music composition faculty, Di Lin gave the freshman speech, and down in the crowd, Guo Lin¡¯an was even more nervous than him.


    ¡°I¡¯m really afraid that when he opens his mouth, he¡¯ll say ¡®I¡¯m very ¡®appy to be ¡®ere! Kids, are ya ¡®appy?!¡¯¡± Guo Lin¡¯an clutched Ji Qinyang¡¯s shoulders, gabbling away. ¡°He¡¯s going to start, he¡¯s going to start!¡±


    Di Lin took a breath, and with his first word, the entire audience fell silent.


    His properly accented Mandarin was like a live broadcaster. Blankly, Guo Lin¡¯an¡¯s jaw fell, and he still had yet to react by the time he finished listening to the entire speech.


    Di Lin was reciting his last few sentences. ¡°During this military training, we have learned a lot. Let us put in even more effo¡¯t to learn, and more effo¡¯t in livin¡¯ our lives!¡±


    It took about five seconds for the audience to realise what the ¡°effo¡¯t¡± Di Lin was talking about, and the entire crowd burst into laughter.


    ¡°¡­¡± Guo Lin¡¯an covered his face. ¡°I had thought that he would be able to hold on to the end¡­¡±


    Ji Qinyang exchanged a high-five with the dark-faced Di Lin when he stepped down from the stage. Next to them, Bai Xintian consoled him, ¡°It¡¯s not bad already, it¡¯s not bad. Your starting was so good, you definitely earned extra points. We truly didn¡¯t expect it at all!¡±


    ¡°Like there¡¯s any damn use!¡± Di Lin vented. ¡°Me image is all d¡¯stroyed.¡±


    Xie Meng was in class when he received a call from Ji Qinyang. He asked Yu Run to cover him, and he sneakily ran out from the back door to answer his phone.


    ¡°I forgot you have classes now¡­¡± Ji Qinyang laughed on the other side of the phone. ¡°Is it convenient for us to talk now?¡±


    Xie Meng leaned against the wall. ¡°Answering your call is more important.¡±


    Ji Qinyang laughed heartily. ¡°You¡¯re too good with words.¡±


    Xie Meng huffed with laughter. ¡°Is military training exhausting?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± It sounded as though Ji Qinyang was on the road, and even a bus honking its horn could be heard. ¡°It¡¯s pretty fun, and I met someone in a band. Do you want to go with me to 798 in a few days to take a look?¡±


    Xie Meng was curious. ¡°Where is that?¡±


    Ji Qinyang did not give him a direct answer. ¡°You¡¯ll know when you get there.¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡± He asked again. ¡°Are you getting along with your dorm mates?¡±


    Xie Meng thought about it. ¡°It¡¯s not too bed, but you should be better than me in this aspect.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Ji Qinyang¡¯s voice was indolent. ¡°Other than you, I¡¯ll never waste my efforts on anyone else.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t keep silent.¡± Ji Qinyang was still laughing. He suddenly said, ¡°Right, we have a handsome guy from Chongqing in my dormitory, and his dialect is so entertaining. We¡¯re all about to pick up his accent already.¡±


    Xie Meng, ¡°The Chongqing dialect? You can understand it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s pretty similar to Mandarin. Shall I say it for you to hear?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°Mn¡­¡± Ji Qinyang took a moment. ¡°Are we frien¡¯s?¡±


    Xie Meng was amused. ¡°Are we not?¡±


    ¡°I ¡®eally miss ya.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I ¡®eally like ya.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I luv ya to death, dahling.¡± He laughed as he asked Xie Meng, ¡°Do ya luv me?¡±


    The model teacher of the Chongqing dialect, Di Lin, who had to endure Ji Qinyang¡¯s display of affections spewed, no longer able to endure it, ¡°Go shove ya luv in ya ass, we don¡¯ speak such mushy nonsense like ya!¡±


    Ji Qinyang ignored him, and continued his conversation for awhile more before hanging up. He knocked on the back of Guo Lin¡¯an¡¯s chair. ¡°Hey, wake up. There¡¯s something I¡¯ll like to ask you.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an groggily wiped his saliva away, groaning ¡°State your matter if you have something¡­ If not, you should withdraw¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Wanting to laugh, Ji Qinyang patted his face. ¡°How much does it cost to rent a place around Xizhimen?¡±


    Bai Xintian looked over. ¡°Why, you want to move out with your girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°I plan on doing so.¡± Ji Qinyang did not deny it. ¡°However, I don¡¯t have enough money this semester, and so I have to think of ways to earn it.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an finally responded. After searching his memory, he replied uncertainly, ¡°It¡¯s not cheap living in Xizhimen, on average it¡¯ll cost more than 5000RMB¡­ You want to rent the entire apartment?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ji Qinyang nodded, ¡°I want the entire apartment.¡±


    Guo Lin¡¯an answered admiringly, ¡°You¡¯re really willing to spend¡­ Seems like your girlfriend is definitely a beauty.¡±


    Ji Qinyang smiled, not saying anything. He sat at the back, going onto 58.com to search for places around Xizhimen. With the agent fee, as well as having to pay for three months¡¯ rent and one month¡¯s deposit all at once, he would not be able to get anywhere without at least twenty thousand renminbi.


    The boy frowned, putting on his headphones. Just as he was searching the site, a message appeared on his phone.


    Qian Mo: My band has a performance at Mao in Nanluoguxiang this weekend. Do you want to come by and watch us?¡±