The next day, Xidan.
Today is the first day of the Lunar New Year. Normally bustling Xidan has only a few shops open at this hour, but if you look, you can still find one or two open for business.
People are coming and going on the street, chatting and laughing, getting ready to visit relatives and friends for the New Year.
Jiang Zhiyi stands at the entrance of Yun Meng Ze, looking at the gate.
She has always known about the entertainment venue opened by Jiang Zhida, but because she didn't come back to Guangzhou at that time and later went abroad, she never really came to see Yun Meng Ze.
Now seeing Yun Meng Ze, Jiang Zhiyi's first reaction is shock. This entertainment venue is even more high-end than what she saw in Guangzhou. Moreover, it doesn't give off an unscrupulous vibe; instead, it makes some dishonest people hesitate.
As she watches, familiar footsteps sound behind her. Jiang Zhiyi's body stiffens, and suddenly, a feeling of shyness rises as if she were close to home.
She wants to turn around, but her feet seem to be stuck, and she can't turn around at all.
"Zhiyi."
The constraints on Jiang Zhiyi's body seem to be suddenly broken. Her body regains awareness, and she slowly turns around.
Qian Ran, wearing a dark gray coat, stands a step away behind her, looking deeply into her eyes with a familiar affection.
Jiang Zhiyi's emotions suddenly break, her nose suddenly tingles, and tears instantly fill her eyes.
"Brother Xiao Ran, I'm... I'm sorry."
Qian Ran suddenly sighs, takes a step forward, and embraces Jiang Zhiyi, gently patting her back. "You know, I've never blamed you."
Jiang Zhiyi tightly grasps the front of his shirt, crying without being able to utter complete words.
"I... I know, but... but I blame... myself."
Qian Ran's hand suddenly tightens, and the discomfort in his heart for a long time seems to be smoothed out by this one sentence.
He will always be soft-hearted towards Jiang Zhiyi.
"It's your job; you don't have to blame yourself. Don't cry."
Jiang Zhiyi: "I... I can't stop."
Qian Ran helplessly chuckles, holding her as she cries, and the two of them don't say anything more to each other.
Yun Meng Ze opened its doors today, and the staff working on this day can receive triple wages, with bonuses also doubled. Therefore, many employees eagerly volunteered to work during the holiday.
The security guard on duty at the entrance observes the two embracing for a long time. They exchange a glance, and a sense of gossip fills their eyes.
However, due to the work environment, they maintain a formal posture without any additional gestures.
Jiang Zhiyi has finally cried enough. In the past few days, it seems like she has shed all the tears she had accumulated over the years.
She releases Qian Ran and looks at the large area of his coat soaked with tears. She awkwardly covers it with her hand, looking up at Qian Ran. "I didn't mean to."
Qian Ran playfully flicks her head with his hand. "Even if you did it on purpose, so what? I won't blame you. Let's go."
"Yeah." Jiang Zhiyi nods, and Qian Ran naturally takes her hand, walking on the streets of Xidan.
There are open-air billiard tables on the side of the street, where young people gather to play pool. There are also many children running around, casually tossing firecrackers.
Occasionally, they hear the sound of firecrackers from nearby homes, and the atmosphere is filled with the festive spirit of the New Year. Jiang Zhiyi exhales a breath of white air; these are all familiar things to her, and she feels very relaxed.
Qian Ran finished watching TV with Jiang Zhiyi last night and didn't sleep much throughout the night. He doesn't know what awaits him.
All he knows is that Jiang Zhiyi is coming back, but he has no idea about her intentions.
Qian Ran is afraid of receiving an answer he doesn't want, but he has to come. Regardless of the outcome, he and Jiang Zhiyi must talk now.
However, seeing Jiang Zhiyi, Qian Ran can't bring himself to say anything. He doesn't want to ask her intentions; he just wants the two of them to keep walking like this.
After walking for a while, Jiang Zhiyi looks at Qian Ran. "Brother Xiao Ran, why don't you ask me why I came back?"
Qian Ran remains silent for a moment and then says, "I dare not ask."
The bitterness in Jiang Zhiyi's heart reaches its peak. In her mind, Qian Ran has always been a confident person. Although he doesn't talk much compared to Jiang Zhida, he has never said anything he dares not say since he started his business.
Looking at Qian Ran, Jiang Zhiyi tries to conceal the bitterness in her heart and smiles at him. "I came back because I miss my family, and I miss you too."
Qian Ran, holding Jiang Zhiyi's hand, couldn't help but tighten his grip. His breath pauses for a moment. "Zhiyi, did I hear you correctly?"
Qian Ran's tone is somewhat cautious. He is truly afraid that he may have misunderstood Jiang Zhiyi's intentions. He has waited for this moment for too long over the years.
"No. I won't leave in the future; I'll stay in the capital."
Jiang Zhiyi no longer lets Qian Ran guess, and directly gives him a positive answer. Over these years, the person she feels most sorry for is Qian Ran.
Qian Ran takes a deep breath and suddenly embraces Jiang Zhiyi. His grip is strong, as if he wants to embed Jiang Zhiyi into his body.
His hands tremble, and the veins on his hands stand out. Qian Ran is trying hard to restrain himself from getting too excited.
Jiang Zhiyi also hugs him tightly, understanding his excitement.
"Zhiyi, this is the best blessing I've heard for the New Year."
Jiang Zhiyi smiles and pats him. "Then can I say it to you every year from now on?"
Qian Ran takes a few deep breaths to calm his emotions before releasing Jiang Zhiyi. He holds her hand, looks into her eyes, and asks, "Are you serious?"
"Yes!" Jiang Zhiyi nods without hesitation, smoothing away the uncertainty in his eyes.
Qian Ran nods. "Good, you said it."
Jiang Zhiyi wants to carefully observe the expression in Qian Ran's eyes, but before she can do so, Qian Ran pulls her and starts running. "Come with me."
His tone is urgent, as if something very important is waiting for them ahead.
Jiang Zhiyi is momentarily stunned by his actions but still follows him, asking, "Where are you taking me?"
Qian Ran doesn't answer. "I won't sell you. You'll know when we get there."
He takes Jiang Zhiyi to where he parked his car, opens the door, and lets her get in.
Although Jiang Zhiyi is puzzled, she has taken a bold step once and doesn't mind doing it again now. Moreover, she wants to know what Qian Ran is up to.
After Jiang Zhiyi is seated, Qian Ran opens the driver's door, sits in, leans down to fasten Jiang Zhiyi's seatbelt, and starts the car.
Jiang Zhiyi looks at the road ahead, becoming increasingly familiar with it.
"Brother Xiao Ran, isn't this the way to your house?"
Qian Ran nods. "Yes, are you afraid?"
If Jiang Zhiyi expresses any fear now, Qian Ran will immediately turn back and won't go any further.
"Not afraid."
Jiang Zhiyi understands what Qian Ran is planning, but she is not afraid at all.
"But Brother Xiao Ran, if we are going to visit your parents, I would like to buy some gifts before going. I don't want your parents to misunderstand that I don't understand etiquette on the first day of the New Year."
On the first day of the New Year, it's customary to bring gifts when visiting elders.
Qian Ran: "There are some in the trunk of the car."
Jiang Zhiyi widens her eyes, looking at him in surprise. "You've prepared everything in advance. Have you been planning to bring me to meet your parents for a long time?"
Qian Ran doesn't hide it from Jiang Zhiyi at this point. With a simple "yes," he admits it.
"Coming to see you today has only two possible outcomes. One is that we breakup, you go back to work overseas, and I..."
"Stop, there's no such assumption!"
Qian Ran hadn't finished his sentence when Jiang Zhiyi interrupted him. Qian Ran burst into laughter, genuine joy evident in his eyes.
"Alright, the other outcome is that you want to spend the rest of your days with me. Last night, I was thinking that if it's the latter, I'll immediately take you home to meet my parents. I want to settle down with you as soon as possible and get married."
When Qian Ran says the last sentence, his eyes are fixed on Jiang Zhiyi, expressing impatience. He is determined.
"So, you prepared the New Year's gifts in the trunk in advance?"
Qian Ran nods with a simple "yes." He won't let Jiang Zhiyi be disrespectful in front of his parents. He wants their blessings for a lifelong relationship with Jiang Zhiyi.
A radiant smile blossoms on Jiang Zhiyi's face. "Brother Xiao Ran, I'm so happy."
She is happy for Qian Ran's feelings for her, happy for Qian Ran's thoughtful consideration, and happy that he wants to spend his life with her.
At this moment, Jiang Zhiyi feels incredibly fortunate that she decided to come back. If she hadn't, she would have regretted it for the rest of her life.
The car quickly stops in front of Qian Ran's parents' home. They live in a family housing complex, and his parents reside on the second floor.
In the capital, Qian Ran also bought a traditional courtyard house, jointly with Jiang Zhida.
When Jiang Zhida first had the idea to buy a courtyard house, he later found some suitable ones. Those who got along well with each other all bought one.
In addition to the courtyard house, there are other properties, as Chu Xia mentioned. In the future, if they decide to open any businesses, having a property on hand means they won't have to worry about finding a suitable place to open a shop.
Chu Xia also purchased a house near Cen Huai'an's school, considering that Cen Huai'an might need it in the future.
She didn't buy houses indiscriminately but thoughtfully acquired properties she could use. If she couldn't use them, she didn't see the need to hoard.
Chu Xia collaborated with Jiang Zhida to develop numerous ointments, cosmetics, and skincare products, all of which generated dividends. With additional dividends from Yun Meng Ze, she was financially secure.
When she and Cen Zhengnian retire, Chu Xia plans to find a place not too far away, away from the hustle and bustle, yet with various convenient facilities nearby. During her leisure time, she envisions taking walks, enjoying the scenery of the capital, and savoring life.
Thinking about these future days, Chu Xia feels an eager impulse to retire.
***
Qian Ran's purchased courtyard is also quite spacious. Initially, he wanted his parents to move there, but they were accustomed to living in the family housing complex and were unwilling to move since the second floor wasn't significantly higher.
Jiang Zhiyi only started feeling nervous when she followed Qian Ran to his doorstep. In reality, she had met his parents before, considering Qian Ran and Jiang Zhida grew up together, and their houses weren't far apart.
"Brother Xiao Ran."
Jiang Zhiyi tightly grips Qian Ran's hand. Qian Ran's other hand is full of items, and he uses the hand holding hers to gently rub her hand back, soothing her.
"My parents, you've met them before, and you know their temperaments."
Jiang Zhiyi understands this, but she can't quite control her inner anxiety.
"Who is it?"
Footsteps are heard from behind the door, and the next moment, the door opens. It's Qian Ran's mother. When she sees Qian Ran and Jiang Zhiyi standing together, she looks at Jiang Zhiyi in confusion and says, "Zhiyi, when did you come back? Why are you with Xiao Ran? Come in, come in."
As she attempts to grab Jiang Zhiyi's hand, she lowers her head and notices the intertwined hands of Jiang Zhiyi and Qian Ran. Her movements abruptly stop, and she raises her head, looking at Qian Ran and then at Jiang Zhiyi with a surprised expression.
"What... what is this?"
Qian Ran raises the hand he holds with Jiang Zhiyi and smiles. "Mom, as you can see, Zhiyi and I are dating, planning to get married in the future."
Mother Qian is momentarily stunned but quickly recovers, bursting into joyous laughter. Her gaze toward Jiang Zhiyi is filled with boundless kindness.
"Ah! This is wonderful news. Zhiyi, come in quickly. Xiao Ran didn't tell us anything about this. I was still worried about when he would get married."
Mother Qian is so happy that she doesn't know what to do. Father Qian, hearing their conversation, also wears a smile.
Unlike Second Uncle Jiang, Father Qian is genuinely good-natured, likes to smile at everyone, and enjoys helping others. Second Uncle Jiang's smile always carries a bit of hidden meaning, showing his more diplomatic nature.
The one who holds sway in the Qian family is Mother Qian. She busies herself pouring water, preparing fruits and snacks, and placing various seeds and candies in front of Jiang Zhiyi.
"Zhiyi, eat. I remember you loved these snacks when you were young. Fortunately, I prepared plenty for the New Year."
"Thank you, Aunt Qian." Jiang Zhiyi is no longer nervous, as Mother Qian and Father Qian still look familiar to her. She picks up a piece of her favorite snack and starts eating. Having not eaten much for breakfast, she is now quite hungry.
"I heard that Zhiyi is now a journalist?"
"Yes." Jiang Zhiyi nods. "I used to work in Guangzhou and overseas, but I'll be working in the capital after the New Year."
Mother Qian's smile grows even wider. "Working in Beijing is great. You grew up here since childhood, so you're familiar with the place. You won't have to worry about being bullied."
Jiang Zhiyi nods with a smile, agreeing with everything Mother Qian says, whether she truly thinks so or not. She's just trying to please Mother Qian and make her happy.
Qian Ran is naturally reserved and quiet. At this moment, he speaks even less, only uttering a few words when necessary. He mainly attends to Jiang Zhiyi and his mother, making sure they have everything they need.
As the conversation progresses, they touch upon the topic of marriage. Previously, whenever Mother Qian brought up Qian Ran's marriage, she would sigh and express her concerns. Now, her face is beaming, and the joy is evident.
"Nowadays, elders respect your youngsters' opinions when it comes to marriage. Your dad and I also respect your decisions. Take your time; we're not in a hurry."
Mother Qian is content with this idea. As long as her son has found a partner, marriage is just a matter of time, and she doesn't feel the need to rush things.
The relationship between the two children has improved, and they will be willing to get married when the time comes.
"Mom," Qian Ran speaks up at this point, "I will discuss this with Zhiyi."
"Sure, sure, sure." Qian's mother sees Jiang Zhiyi blushing and thinks it's normal for young people to feel shy discussing marriage matters.
"Today, Zhiyi, have your meal here. I remember when you were young, you loved the dishes I made. Whatever you want to eat today, just tell me, and Auntie will showcase her culinary skills."
Father Qian chimes in, happily nodding, "Normally, whenever Xiao Ran and I want to eat Auntie's signature dishes, it depends on her mood. Today, we've got a chance thanks to Zhiyi."
Qian's mother nods, "Exactly, can you even compare to Zhiyi?"
Jiang Zhiyi is not a picky eater. She never had the luxury to be selective about food when she was young, and during her years abroad, she learned to appreciate whatever was available. "I'll eat whatever is made. I don't mind," she says.
Qian's mother smiles, "Then I'll take care of it. Family Head, help me out. Xiao Ran, make sure to keep Zhiyi company."
Jiang Zhiyi offered to help, but Qian's mother declined, mentioning that Father Qian would be sufficient.
As the two elders head into the kitchen, Qian Ran asks Jiang Zhiyi, "Want to watch TV?"
Jiang Zhiyi shakes her head, "Not really. I just want to talk to you."
She wraps her arms around Qian Ran's, leaning on his shoulder.
Qian Ran pats her head, "Tired?"
Jiang Zhiyi shakes her head, "Not tired. I just want to lean on you for a bit and chat."
"Then let's go to my room."
"Sure."
Qian Ran's room is usually tidied up by himself, but since he started doing business with Jiang Zhida in Guangzhou, he has spent less time here.
There are more books inside, along with various items he used to play with during his school days.
Jiang Zhiyi sees familiar things and points at them, grinning as she asks him, "You used to play with spinning tops too?"
Qian Ran turns to look, nodding, "There wasn't much else to do back then."
There is only one chair in the room, and Qian Ran gestures for Jiang Zhiyi to sit on it.
Jiang Zhiyi pats his bed; he has many beddings layered on it, making it soft.
"Do you live here now?"
"You know, I mostly stay in Guangzhou. I only come back to clean up and don't really live here."
Qian Ran opens a cupboard and takes out a packet of snacks for Jiang Zhiyi.
Jiang Zhiyi looks at the cupboard, "Do you only store food here?"
Qian Ran laughs, "Mostly, you can pick whatever you want to eat."
When Jiang Zhiyi worked in Guangzhou before, she knew that Qian Ran liked to stock up on food. He would eat when he felt tired from work.
If he didn't engage in regular exercise, he might have gained a lot of weight.
However, Qian Ran has maintained a good physique. Despite being in his thirties, he doesn't have the greasy feeling that other men might have, appearing refreshing and handsome. There's even a mature charm that makes him more attractive.
Jiang Zhiyi went over and picked her favorite small cake. However, she didn't eat much since she would have a proper meal later.
"Zhiyi, there's something I want to talk to you about."
The small cake is tiny, easily swallowed in one bite. After Jiang Zhiyi finishes one, she replies with a slightly unclear voice, "Go ahead."
Qian Ran's throat moves, and he looks at Jiang Zhiyi with a serious expression. Her eating motion involuntarily stops because of his earnest attitude.
Qian Ran holds Jiang Zhiyi's hand and says, "Zhiyi, I don't know if you're thinking about marriage right now, but I want to marry you. If you agree, I'll talk to my parents today about the day we'll go to your house with the betrothal gifts. If you're not ready, I can continue waiting."
Qian Ran has been thinking about these words since earlier; he doesn't want to wait any longer, fearing that he might lose the courage to speak up if he delays.
"Okay."
Thinking that if Jiang Zhiyi refused, he might be disappointed but not too much because today's surprise from Jiang Zhiyi was already sufficient.
Qian Ran holds Jiang Zhiyi's hand and says, "Zhiyi, I don't know if you're thinking about marriage right now, but I want to marry you. If you agree, I'll talk to my parents today about the day we'll go to your house with the betrothal gifts. If you're not ready, I can continue waiting."
Qian Ran has been thinking about these words since earlier; he doesn't want to wait any longer, fearing that he might lose the courage to speak up if he delays.
"Okay."
Thinking that if Jiang Zhiyi refused, he might be disappointed but not too much because today's surprise from Jiang Zhiyi was already sufficient. However, when Jiang Zhiyi actually agrees, Qian Ran's initial reaction is to stand there in shock, thinking he misheard.
"What?"
Qian Ran asks again, disbelieving.
Jiang Zhiyi tilts her head, looking at Qian Ran with a smile, "I said okay. Let's get married. We..."
Before she can finish her sentence, Qian Ran fiercely embraces her. "Zhiyi, I'm so happy. I've never been this happy before!"
Qian Ran had never dared to think about their future or if they could get married. Just the thought made him uncontrollably uncomfortable.
Jiang Zhiyi nods, saying, "I'm happy too."
During lunch at Qian's house, Jiang Zhiyi enjoys herself, with everyone taking care of her to ensure she eats well.
Being a few years older than Jiang Zhiyi, Qian Ran has always treated her like a child, and it has become a habit to take care of her.
After lunch, Jiang Zhiyi spends time talking with Mother Qian and Father Qian before Qian Ran takes her home.
Downstairs at Jiang Zhiyi's place, Qian Ran holds her hand, reluctant to let go. "I'll pick you up tomorrow. There's a holiday resort near the outskirts of Beijing that's open during the New Year. Let's go there for some fun."
"Sure. But don't you have to visit relatives tomorrow?"
Visiting relatives on New Year's Day is a tradition. Jiang Zhiyi's relatives finished their gatherings on the day of the New Year's Eve dinner, and the rest are her elders' friends and colleagues. She can choose whether to go with them or not.
"We can delay the visit by a couple of days."
Jiang Zhiyi asks, "Okay, can I invite others to join us? It might be more lively with more people."
"Of course. Dazi would probably want to go too."
The two were discussing whom they could invite tomorrow when Second Uncle Jiang returned with some guests and happened to see their intimate appearance.
He rubbed his eyes and looked again; indeed, it was Jiang Zhiyi and Qian Ran.
Second Uncle Jiang immediately called out, "Zhiyi!"
Jiang Zhiyi looked over, confidently holding Qian Ran's hand, and walked up to Second Uncle Jiang. "Dad, this is my boyfriend, Qian Ran. You should know him."
"Hello, Uncle Jiang."
Second Uncle Jiang frowned as he looked at the intertwined hands of the two. Jiang Zhiyi didn't let go; instead, she held even tighter. "Dad, this is my Brother Xiao Ran, and we've made a promise."
"Alright. Uncle, we were a bit abrupt today. I'll visit you and Auntie another day."
Second Uncle Jiang waved his hand, signaling them to leave.
As soon as Qian Ran drove away, Second Uncle Jiang asked Jiang Zhiyi directly, "When did you talk to him? Did you two get together back in Guangzhou?"
Jiang Zhiyi walked towards home, saying, "Yes. Brother Xiao Ran has a successful career, a harmonious family, and good looks. I've waited for him for so many years even when I was abroad. Dad, is there anything about him that you're not satisfied with?"
Second Uncle Jiang looked puzzled, furrowing his brows and carefully thinking, indeed, he couldn't find any fault with Qian Ran. He even thought this son-in-law was quite good.
"He's a bit old," Second Uncle Jiang said after pondering for a while.
Jiang Zhiyi replied, "Being older means he'll be more caring."
This was not necessarily a problem. Many parents liked their daughters to marry slightly older men who could take better care of them.
Second Uncle Jiang felt even more frustrated. His daughter had just returned, and now she was about to be taken away by a wolf.
However, his daughter was of marriageable age, and Qian Ran was a good match.
"How far have you two gone?"
Jiang Zhiyi answered, "We're at the stage of discussing marriage."
"Cough, cough, cough!" Second Uncle Jiang was choked by his own saliva and coughed violently. After a while, he spoke in shock, "You two...!"
"It's not what you're thinking. We're getting married. His parents will probably come over in a few days to discuss the engagement."
Second Uncle Jiang almost choked again. This series of revelations left him struggling to accept the situation.
"So fast?"
"Not fast at all," Jiang Zhiyi explained. "We've been discussing this for several years. Dad, go home and tell Mom. I'm afraid we'll end up arguing if we keep talking about it."
Second Uncle Jiang had a headache written all over his face.
***
At Yun Meng Ze, Zhang Lu got up early.
She had developed a routine of jogging every morning, waking up at a specific time when her parents were still asleep.
Zhang Lu didn't wake them up; instead, she went for a run and brought back breakfast. By the time she returned home, her parents were awake.
During breakfast, Zhang Lu informed them about her plans to go out and have fun.
Upon seeing Zhang Lu's hair, Jiang Zhiguan couldn't help but feel uncomfortable. Hearing her announcement, she quickly waved his hand, saying, "Go ahead, go ahead. Your hair is making my eyes uncomfortable."
Zhang Lu quickly devoured several buns, gulped down a bowl of soy milk, wiped her mouth, and then ran off.
Watching her daughter eat like a whirlwind, Jiang Zhiguan and Zhang Wei stared at her with wide eyes.
After Zhang Lu ran out, Jiang Zhiguan couldn't hide her sadness, "Lu Lu must have suffered a lot at the military academy."
Zhang Wei sighed, "Ah, it's all because she likes it."
If it weren't for Zhang Lu's passion, Zhang Wei would never have let her daughter attend the military academy.
As they continued eating breakfast, the taste of the food seemed less satisfying.
Zhang Lu, oblivious to their concerns, had developed a fast eating pace during her special training. If she didn't eat quickly, she might have less time for rest, and sometimes she couldn't even finish her meal before the break ended, risking going hungry.
She took the bus to Yun Meng Ze, which hadn't opened yet.
Jiang Zhida didn't stay at Yun Meng Ze last night either. If Zhang Lu didn't have the special card that she brought, she might not even be able to enter.
Her appearance had changed dramatically, and Yun Meng Ze had also hired new staff, so it was understandable that she wasn't recognized.
Staying in the special private room left by Jiang Zhida, Zhang Lu called each of her friends and sent beeper messages.
Everyone who received her call happily agreed to come, asking her to wait at Yun Meng Ze.
It had been a long time since Zhang Lu had seen these friends, and she was looking forward to their reunion.
Tang Song was the first to arrive at Yun Meng Ze. When he received the call, he didn't even want to wait for the bus and took a taxi directly.
Taking a deep breath at the door of the private room, Tang Song calmed his nerves. Finally, he didn't look as excited anymore. He knocked on the door.
A familiar and cheerful voice echoed from inside the door, "Come in, no need to knock!"
Tang Song pushed open the door and saw Zhang Lu sitting inside, with a buzz cut, wearing a sweater, camouflage pants, and high-top leather boots.
He hesitated for a moment and called out, "Zhang Lu?"
"It's me! What, you don't recognize me with a new hairstyle?" Zhang Lu smoothed her hair, patted the seat next to her, and said, "Come in quickly, I just queued up a military song. Can you sing it? If you can't, we'll sing together."
It was still Tang Song's familiar voice and sunny personality. She always made people feel comfortable and engaged. Even if you were not talkative, she would accompany you, ensuring you wouldn't feel bored.
Tang Song walked over and sat beside her, still looking at her hair. Since Zhang Lu went to university, they hadn't met again, and her appearance had changed dramatically.
No matter how much she changed, her personality remained the same as before, the Zhang Lu familiar to Tang Song.
He missed Zhang Lu so much. Seeing her now, he wanted to take a few more glances. After she started school again, he didn't know when they could meet again.
Zhang Lu handed the other microphone to Tang Song, saying, "Let's begin! In the cold wind, fluttering leaves..."
Zhang Lu sang, and although it was a somewhat melancholic song, she sang it with a bright and sunny demeanor, as if singing an uplifting military song.
Not hearing Tang Song's voice, Zhang Lu turned her head to look at him, signaling him to sing along.
Tang Song picked up the microphone, and the two sang together, line by line. He sang with more of the song's inherent charm, expressing his own feelings. His gaze never left Zhang Lu.
However, Zhang Lu was immersed in the song and didn't notice.
As they sang, other classmates entered the room one by one, not disturbing the duo.
When they finished singing, the group cheered and applauded, shouting, "Great!" "Sing another one!"
Zhang Lu wore a sunflower-like smile and waved enthusiastically to them, "Hello, everyone! Next, I'll bring you the song 'Returning from Target Practice'!"
"Great!"
"Oh oh oh~"
The crowd was very enthusiastic, and Zhang Lu began singing loudly. Everyone knew this song since the music teacher taught it to them in school, and then classmates used it for choir competitions.
The entire room was filled with the sound of "The setting sun in the west, red clouds flying," deafeningly loud.
When Cen Huai'an pushed open the door of the private room, his ears were almost blasted off by the volume.
He rubbed his ears, took a moment to adjust, and then entered. He found that everyone was singing, completely immersed in the atmosphere. The group seemed to have transformed into the soldiers from "Returning from Target Practice," competing to see who could sing louder and who could be happier.
Tang Song didn't join the madness with others. He had handed his microphone to someone else, but he remained seated next to Zhang Lu, watching her sing loudly. Like an indefatigable sun, he tried to illuminate the surroundings with her singing.
After one song ended, Cen Huai'an finally walked in. However, he didn't go to the singing area but walked to the side of the pool table. He listened to the group of people howling and wailing, silently picked up a pool cue, and began playing.
He played a game by himself. Zhang Lu handed the microphone to someone else and went to the side to drink water, noticing him.
Zhang Lu ran over with a drink in hand, "An'an, why aren't you singing?"
Cen Huai'an, bending over, eyes on the ball he lined up with his cue, pocketed the ball with a single stroke. He straightened up and said, "Tone-deaf."
Zhang Lu indeed hadn't heard Cen Huai'an sing and believed his explanation.
"Need anything to eat? There are also drinks. The chef in Xiaoshu's shop might not have taken a break."
Cen Huai'an, "Wait until I finish this game."
Zhang Lu put the drink aside and grabbed a pool cue, "Let me play with you. Let's see if my skills are rusty."
Tang Song stood not far away. Among the classmates who stopped singing, he also came out.
Hearing this, he stepped forward and said, "I'll be the referee for you."
"Sure! Tang Song, I remember you're good at pool, right?"
Tang Song, "I can play."
"Then, after An'an and I finish, how about we play a game too?"
Naturally, Tang Song had no objections, and even his heartbeat quickened. He both hoped Cen Huai'an and Zhang Lu's game would finish quickly and wished it would take longer, giving him enough time to prepare.
Some people noticed Zhang Lu and Cen Huai'an playing pool and gathered around to watch. However, many others continued to sing.
Everyone understood the rules of pool. They watched without interference, ensuring it didn't affect the two players.
Some people, itching to play pool, saw a nearby table and invited companions to join in.
On the other side, Cen Huai'an dominated the game with precise shots, leaving no chance for Zhang Lu. All his balls went in, and he started with the next break.
Zhang Lu, not bothered by her own loss, complemented Cen Huai'an's impressive skills.
"An'an, did you secretly practice at home? At least you used to give me a chance."
Cen Huai'an wiped the cue and said, "I'm feeling good today."
Having agreed to play with Tang Song, Zhang Lu didn't continue playing with Cen Huai'an. She asked Tang Song if he was ready.
Tang Song nodded, and he took the first shot.
Sitting on the side with a pool cue in hand, Zhang Lu drank water and chatted with Cen Huai'an, "I hope Tang Song gives me a chance."
As she finished speaking, Tang Song took a shot. The ball narrowly missed going into the pocket, and he smiled at Zhang Lu, "Almost there. It's your turn."
Zhang Lu perked up, picked up the cue, and went over to Tang Song with a playful smile, "This is the chance you've given me. I'll definitely win this game!"
Tang Song chuckled, "Well, my skills are not as good as yours."
Zhang Lu laughed, "Haha, I'm just kidding. I'm not that good; it's been a long time since I played pool."
She stretched her wrist, bent down, and suddenly became serious.
At this moment, Zhang Lu, who had been lively and cheerful just a moment ago, transformed into a poised and focused predator, ready to capture her prey like a coiled cheetah.
Tang Song now realized that Zhang Lu's real change wasn't in her appearance but in her confrontational momentum. It was the kind of experience gained only through military training, like a drawn sword ready to strike, unstoppable!
Cen Huai'an watched Zhang Lu, and his posture straightened. His expression changed, mirroring Tang Song's thoughts. The military had made a significant impact on Zhang Lu.
Zhang Lu played each shot, sinking one ball after another into the pockets. She remained focused, without arrogance or a smile. Her eyes were fixed on the balls on the table, now her adversaries.
Ball after ball, until the last one went in, Zhang Lu's momentum suddenly relaxed. She happily turned to Cen Huai'an and Tang Song, "I won!"
Her smile was pure, like that of a child, and nothing hinted at the fierceness she had displayed while playing.
The classmates who were initially stunned by Zhang Lu's intense gameplay turned their heads back to applaud and cheer.
Zhang Lu told them not to clap, then ran to Tang Song, handing him a candy, "Here, even if you lose, don't cry. Have some candy."
The candy she handed over to Tang Song was casually picked up from the table just now. She had put it in her pocket, intending to eat it herself, but since Tang Song lost, she thought it would be a nice gesture to console him.
After giving the candy, Zhang Lu ran over to Cen Huai'an, her eyes forming two crescent moons as she smiled, "Aren't I amazing? If I had started the game, I might have won."
Cen Huai'an replied, "How about another round?"
Zhang Lu shook her head, "No, playing continuously becomes boring. Let's do something else."
The two of them chatted and prepared to go ice-skating, leaving Tang Song holding the candy tightly in his hand. The ripples in his heart grew stronger and stronger.