Chapter 1, The Fleeting Light.

I dare not look into my mother's eyes, fearing to see the disappointment within them. Such a gaze is more painful than having my flesh cut with a knife

At that time, there were many guests, and someone had already started looking this way

The young man before me is even more handsome than Meng Xilou. His hair is neat and tidy, his features are composed, and his eyes seem to reflect the city's lights, shining brilliantly and making it difficult to look directly at them. His skin is like white porcelain, resembling a graceful young man who has stepped out of a painting. Despite my collision with him, there is not a trace of displeasure in his gaze, only curiosity.

As usual, I was busy, waiting, until Meng Xilou walked in

... ...

Gu Mi Yin's words struck home, hitting my Achilles' heel

I gratefully bowed to her, said "goodbye," and turned to head home

I would very much like to respond with "Hatred cannot solve problems, and betting away my dignity cannot solve problems either," but I cannot say it, for I am the least qualified person to utter those words

A cashier took a few days of sick leave, and I filled in for her

When I was on my way home from school, I foolishly asked my mother if I was not beautiful

Hello, may I ask what you need

When drinking cola, he always has the habit of taking a big gulp first and then slowly finishing the rest. He has a bad habit of chewing on straws. After finishing the cola, the straw is always chewed up by him

We apologize; if our staff has made any mistakes, please feel free to point them out.

Gu Mi Yin is famously known as the "Little Flying Girl" at school, acting recklessly and causing chaos every day, leaving everyone helpless, including Gu Yue Tian. She is never short of male admirers, always wearing a carefree smile, frequently clashing with teachers, and her grades are perpetually at the bottom.

I quickly caught up, and the closer I got, the faster my heart raced. In my life, apart from leaving a blank exam paper during the college entrance examination, I have never done anything out of the ordinary.

If Meng Xilou knew that you liked him, do you think he would dislike you? If Zhang Xiuxue knew that you liked Meng Xilou, would she be furious?

At the moment the mechanical female voice announced the score, the atmosphere changed completely

His name is Meng Xilou

After venting enough, Mother threw away the feather duster, sat on the sofa, and covered her face while crying

Meng Xilou glanced back, a smile playing at the corners of her mouth, as she waved to the crowd

She changed her shoes and prepared to run out

After the summer vacation, Gu Mi Yin will be entering her third year of high school

Those moments that cannot be revisited always tug at the heart the most

However, such an event did not occur until the start of the school year. As long as the diary was not returned for a day, my heart remained unsettled, hanging in mid-air.

Can it still be called a hamburger if the top layer is removed? I paid for it! I only like to drink cola, not orange juice! Gu Mi Yin raised her voice, drawing everyone's attention.

She walked towards me with a beaming smile, looked at the menu, and said: "I would like one deep-sea codfish burger and two servings of cola"

The four of us live together

I stubbornly refused to leave, my eyes gradually reddening, and I choked out, "It is not my fault"

Every now and then, Gu Mi Yin's harmless pranks would occur, which were nothing new and could only be these. I originally intended to tidy up, but since I was covered in the sweetness of cola, I went to take a shower

I just want to have more interactions with Meng Xilou. However, in this situation, I simply cannot express myself, so my face turns bright red, and I am unable to say anything further

Gu Mi Yin did not let go, and the two of them were at a standstill. During the argument, I accidentally pushed her a little. At that moment, unexpectedly, the front door opened, and my mother and stepfather walked in and saw this scene. My mother immediately changed her expression; without even changing her shoes, she walked directly in front of me and scolded me indiscriminately: "Why did you push your sister?"

I was drenched all over, my hair was in disarray, and my body was covered in the sweetness of cola, looking utterly disheveled. This appearance was fully captured in Meng Xilou's eyes

I closed my eyes and made an effort to suppress the anger within me

In the evening, the streets remain bustling, adorned with neon lights; the city at night is alive. However, the city feels excessively cold, with no bright moon in sight, nor can one see the stars scattered across the sky. The thick layers of clouds obscure the starlight.

The first poem I learned as a child was "A Cut of Plum Blossom" by Li Qingzhao. At that time, my mother and I were still in Suhe Town. In the evening, she would hold me and recite the verses while sitting in the courtyard

Sitting on the sofa, Gu Mi Yin wore a hint of sarcasm at the corner of her mouth and said, "The top student in the grade can't even get into a third-tier university in the end; it would be better to just die."

Gu Mi Yin retreated and mocked, "You, who have always been the obedient girl, actually like a little hoodlum, Su Xi. I really can't see that, tsk tsk."

I rarely make her angry, nor have I ever disappointed her, but this time, I have hurt her feelings

In the triumphant laughter of Gu Mi Yin, I cast a glance at Meng Xi Lou with my peripheral vision, then turned to change my clothes. At the moment I stepped out of the door, I looked back at that boy; his eyes were filled with the image of another person.

Although I had anticipated the consequences of my mother knowing my college entrance examination score and had prepared myself to endure such outcomes, I still felt extremely distressed inside

The scores obtained are insufficient to even qualify for a third-tier university

I took a glass of cola, then added three ice cubes, carefully wiped the water droplets that had spilled on the outside, and then cautiously handed it to him

Alright, please wait a moment

I walked over and, clinging to her arm, said in a spoiled tone: "Mom, I can only go in the afternoon; I will stay at home and study obediently in the morning. I want a bit more social practice experience, rather than becoming a bookworm. Please allow me to go, okay?"

I do not know how long I have walked, the sky gradually darkens, and the streetlights illuminate. I see my own shadow on the road, and tears suddenly fall. I stand dazed under the streetlight, madly reminiscing about the years in Suhe Town

I strode forward and reached out to grab the notebook

I was startled awake by the sound of a car horn

Such a wonderful person, I can never compare to her, a wave of bitterness rises in my heart, and the person she is running towards is in my heart

September 17

They are there, they will always be there. In fact, I do not know what to say, I am just speaking aimlessly, sharing in his sorrow. I hurriedly wiped away his tears, my palms becoming damp.

Looking at her expression, I had a bad feeling. Usually, when she rolls her eyes, she is already plotting how to scheme against someone

In the past, I did not understand; I always thought that when the swallows returned, the moon would be full

What kind of age is seven years old

Gu Mi Yin has a great fondness for applying bright red lipstick. With a bare face, she does not wear eyeliner or fill in her eyebrows, but she loves to apply lipstick. Her fair complexion makes the red stand out exceptionally, creating a captivating and beautiful appearance. Gu Mi Yin always knows how to capture people's attention

After getting off the car, Gu Mi Yin walked straight ahead, while I deliberately lagged two steps behind, walking slowly at the back. The two of us entered the school gate, one in front and the other behind.

Mother was choked, speechless, not knowing what to say. She unhappily grabbed my hand and dragged me to the bedroom

Therefore, after he left, I mustered the courage to ask the staff at KFC if they were still hiring part-time workers. The young girl who was busy collecting payments replied without looking up: "Sorry, our part-time positions are already filled."

Outstanding individuals are always followed by a large group of admirers. Such brilliance can only inspire awe. How could someone as gentle and kind as Vanga not be liked?

I am reluctant to leave this place, and I am also unwilling to part with the joy of handing the cola to Meng Xilou at that moment

The long summer vacation has arrived, and Gu Mi Yin spends her days out playing with Meng Xi Lou. In the evenings, Meng Xi Lou rides his bike to bring her back. Whenever I hear the roar of the motorcycle, I cannot help but stand by the window, gazing out, hoping to catch a glimpse of his shadow in the distance

We sincerely apologize, but our store is no longer accepting customers

She took out a small mirror and a rose-colored lipstick from her bag. She applied the lipstick to her lips while looking in the mirror, slightly pursing them. Her lips were full and beautiful, resembling cherries touched by morning dew, glistening and radiant

Mother replied without raising her head: "What will we wear and eat after leaving the Gu family? If it weren't for the Gu family, you might have already gone out to work by now."

I still keep my head down, not saying a word

Mother finally lifted her head to look at me, and she said slowly: "I have been counting on you for my entire life"

Gu Mi Yin tore open the hamburger packaging, suddenly waved at me, and said: "You, come here!"

Gu Mi Yin smiled gently, her eyes darting around. She looked around and then pointed at a boy, saying: "If you hug him, I will return your diary."

That notebook is my most treasured possession, filled with the name of Meng Xilou

Gu Mi Yin has never concealed her hostility towards me

Alright, please wait a moment

I later learned that he was called Vanga, and I found out from another girl. Vanga had just transferred in, and due to his outstanding appearance and top grades, he became the most popular boy among the girls at school. The most crucial point was that I heard from other girls that Vanga was very gentle, treating everyone well and fulfilling everyone's requests one by one. In front of others, he always wore a smile, so within less than two weeks of arriving at school, he captured the hearts of a large group of girls

One short, two long, three honks of the horn

Even now, I still do not understand why the quiet Mengxi Building has transformed into something entirely different

A muffled groan came from above.

At that time, a full moon hung in the sky, the large moon seemed to be right in front of me, as if I could reach out and touch it. The cool moonlight spilled over me, and the evening breeze was gentle; that tranquility remains unforgettable to this day

The supervisor's expression was very unpleasant, and it was clear that Gu Mi Yin was not someone to be trifled with. In order to find a compromise, he turned around, looked at me with a serious face, and said: "You should quickly change your clothes and leave; you don't need to come in tomorrow"

After a moment of contemplation, Mother finally spoke, saying: "Then come back early tonight, pay attention to your safety, and do not fall behind in your studies"

What if I don't?" Gu Mi Yin provocatively asked

I foolishly asked, "Classmate, may I give you a hug?"

While my mother was helping me pack my things, she comforted me, saying: "Xixi, you must work hard in your studies. Your mother is counting on you to succeed. I know the grievances you have endured. A-Yin is still immature, so please be more forgiving towards her"

Upon entering the bedroom, she was taken aback by the scattered items and the disheveled clothes on the floor, remaining motionless for a long time

I sniffed and said with a pout, "Mom, can we leave the Gu family?"

I nodded vigorously, noticing a hint of expectation in her gaze

As I changed my shoes, I honestly said: "I am going to look for a part-time job"

Then you should immediately dismiss this employee; I will not pursue today's matter any further. Gu Mi Yin looked at me, her face bearing a provocative expression

For the sake of the diary, I am willing to go all out

The atmosphere in the living room was unprecedentedly heavy and serious. The wall clock ticked away, each sound striking at the heart, causing a tremor within and making it hard to breathe. I lowered my head, not daring to look at my mother's expression.

He has a very handsome appearance, with naturally chestnut-colored hair that stands out particularly in the sunlight. His eyebrows and eyes are not of the cold, slender type, but rather double-lidded, giving him an inexplicable charm. His eyes are brown, and combined with his deep facial features, they carry a hint of mixed heritage. His style leans towards hip-hop, and he sometimes enjoys wearing a black hat backward, never conforming to conventional norms

In the summer, my favorite activity is wading in the shallow riverbank, where I can feel small fish swimming past my feet. In the evening, I can always hear adults shouting for their children, calling from the east to the west, one voice after another, carrying a unique accent that echoes in the wind

Hmm. This time, he showed no hesitation

I thought I would be rejected, but unexpectedly, the boy hesitated for three seconds and gently nodded.

I remain silent, filled with bitterness.

She turned around and called the store manager to explain the situation, then hung up the phone, looked at me, and said: "Then you can come to work tomorrow afternoon."

I am becoming increasingly anxious and angry, and the root cause of it all is Gu Mi Yin

In my eyes, Meng Xilou is special, not because of his silence, but because he seems to carry many stories within him, evoking curiosity.

Thinking this in my heart, I quickened my pace and approached Gu Mi Yin, blocking her way, and whispered, "What will it take for you to return my diary?"

I sit on the bus, watching the name of Mengxi Building intricately outlined on the glass window.

After working part-time for so many days, this is the first time I have encountered such a situation. I clearly know that Gu Mi Yin is deliberately making things difficult for me, yet I find myself powerless.

I felt guilty and dared not to look at such a smile, which was dazzling and heart-wrenching

Undeniably, Gu Mi Yin is beautiful. Her beauty carries the breath of youth. In a crowd, she can be spotted at a glance, and one cannot take their eyes off her.

In the afternoon, Meng Xilou entered the store holding a skateboard and walked towards me. I smiled, my heart filled with joy.

The petals fell onto the surface of the river with the wind, looking particularly beautiful, and even a ladle of water would carry the fragrance of the peach blossoms

Thank you, Mom

Silly child, why would mother need you to say thank you

The diary is in her hands, and I go through each day in fear and trepidation, dreading that my mother will burst in and scold me for having the audacity to like a little hoodlum, and also fearing that when Meng Xilou comes to take Gu Miyin out to play, he will suddenly berate me for being shameless

Meng Xilou arrived suddenly and departed just as suddenly; no one knows when he came, nor does anyone know when he left

I lowered my head, stubbornly refusing to speak. I feared that if I opened my mouth, tears would fall.

If I repeat a year, I will have more time to do something

Meng Xilou left the crowd holding a skateboard, and I secretly followed him. I watched as he went to a KFC, bought a cup of iced cola, sat down at the third seat by the window, slowly finished drinking, and then left.

Gu Mi Yin let out a long whistle, a smile on her lips, and quickly jumped off the sofa. Wearing slippers, she rushed to the bedroom to change into a pair of tank top shorts, then ran like the wind to the door, suddenly remembering something and turning back.

I called out "Mom" in a hoarse voice, then embraced her and cried out, "Mom, I'm sorry, I promise to get into a good school next year, will you believe me?" The last three words were a gentle plea

Today is the time when the college entrance examination scores are released

Every time I see him sitting by the river, I secretly hide behind a tree to watch him. Meng Xilou is very thin, and his outline can be seen from the back. Sometimes, I will go to the opposite bank of the river just to catch a glimpse of the expression on his face.

However, Meng Xilou only comforted Gu Miyin, saying: "Ayin, it would be better if we don't come next time. Don't be angry, and don't let yourself get upset over someone who is irrelevant."

After returning home, only my mother was sitting on the sofa watching television, and the clock's hands pointed to 11

It is late at night, and I should also return home

When I drink cola in Mengxi Building, I deliberately tidy up the table next to him or pretend to casually walk past him. However, his gaze is never on me, but rather focused on the screen of his phone

The two requests she made were peculiar and difficult to understand, and I instinctively glanced at Meng Xilou's expression. However, Meng Xilou was only looking at Gu Miyin, smiling as he said, "Your preferences are indeed strange." He did not find the proposal abnormal at all

Zhang Xiuxue is my mother. If my mother were to find out that I like a little delinquent, she would surely be greatly disappointed in me, and I cannot allow her to be disappointed again

I stared at him blankly, feeling a sense of inexplicable joy

Gu Mi Yin raised the corners of her mouth in a smile and mocked, "So you like Meng Xi Lou."

The pain in my body kept coming, and I endured the agony until I could no longer hold back, crying out: "Mom, I'm sorry..."

Many years later, I still remember that embrace, warm yet tinged with a hint of confusion and youthfulness, leaving a profound imprint in my mind, which inevitably marked the beginning of my connection with Vanga

My mother often says that I am like a little monkey, always making a fuss. The clothes I just changed into become muddy as soon as I go out to play. People around me always praise my intelligence, but no one has ever said that I am good-looking

All grievances can only be swallowed in silence

I gazed at him from a distance and found that he was like this every day

Later, Vanga explained the reason he wanted me to embrace him. He said that if a person does not truly need a hug, they would not seek one from others. If he can bring happiness to others, why not allow others to embrace him

Suhe Town is not large, and a river runs through the middle of the town. My favorite place is the peach blossom forest located on the eastern side of Suhe Town

That day, Meng Xilou was sitting by the river as usual, and I was secretly watching him from behind. I saw his shoulders trembling, and I could faintly hear the sound of sobbing.

I have won some bets and lost others, fulfilling myself but failing to fulfill others

I looked at my mother's red eyes and her tear-streaked face, and my heart felt like a crumpled piece of paper, turning to dust at the slightest breeze

I do not dare to tell my mother that I deliberately performed poorly in my exams because I wanted to wait for someone, which has caused her such sadness

I looked at the hamburger sprinkled with sesame seeds and cursed the inventor of the hamburger in my heart more than a dozen times

At that moment, for some unknown reason, I also became very sad. So I ran over and gently hugged him, just like my mother would comfort me when I cried, saying: "Good child, do not cry. Do not cry, you must be a little more obedient"

My face flushed red as I said, "It's none of your business who I like!"

Gu Yue Tian asked with a stern face: "Where are you going again?"

You tidy up these things, and I will help you with the laundry

Alright, you should take a shower and go to bed early

"I believe you, Mom." My mother stood up, gently stroked my hair, and replied with a smile

When I finished my shower and came out, I found Gu Mi Yin sitting on the sofa in the living room, holding a diary and looking at me with a beaming smile

Upon hearing that the customer was about to leave, the manager became even more agitated. He turned to me and said coldly, "Before you leave, please apologize to this customer."

I was knocked back a few steps, covering my injured nose, with tears welling up in my eyes

The first word that comes to mind for anyone who sees Gu Mi Yin is: beautiful

Gu Mi Yin returned the diary to me as promised. When she looked at me, she revealed a mocking expression: "Su Xi, for a mere diary, you actually had the audacity to hug a boy. Do you have any dignity left?"

Meng Xilou paid the bill, took the plate voluntarily, and tilted his head to ask Gu Mi Yin: "Do you want to sit by the window?"

I do not know why, but when I see someone I like, I feel an overwhelming surge of energy throughout my body

The supervisor, showing no interest in me, continued, "Regardless of whether it is your fault or not, you must leave! Our store does not need a server with a poor attitude!"

Meng Xilou handed over the money, then took the cola, and this time left directly without any pause, his gaze showing no other changes. The reunion after many years turned out to be like this

Meng Xilou is skateboarding, and he does it exceptionally well. There are many difficult moves that I cannot find the words to describe; I only feel that the moment he is airborne is very impressive, and at the same time, my heart tightens. It is not until he lands steadily that my heart returns to its original place

I never imagined that Mengxilou would become what it is now

I walked anxiously behind the boy, hesitating whether to speak up. Lost in my thoughts, I didn't even notice when he stopped, and thus I bumped into him.

At the corner of the stairs in the school, I encountered Meng Xilou, who seemed to smile at me.

For a long time after he left, I would go to the riverside, as if to reminisce

That person is the one whom Gu Mi Yin is rushing towards

I am the only one who knows this secret

I wiped my tears haphazardly and nodded vigorously

I remained silent, but Gu Mi Yin retorted without hesitation: "Auntie, don't make baseless connections; I have no relationship with her at all!"

I stand by the window, watching her run towards another person, her radiant smile capable of dimming the sun.

It was only later that I realized it was a solitary goose

I am silently reciting that rhythm sequence, which I am most familiar with.

I wanted to say something, but seeing how busy everyone was, I simply bought a cup of cola and sat down nearby, planning to wait until there were fewer people in the store before trying again

With my eyes closed, a figure flashed through my mind and quickly disappeared

The young girl hesitated for a moment and said, "Then I will first consult the store manager. If he agrees, you can stay."

The little boy in my memory seems to grow taller like bamboo shoots after the rain, eventually maturing into a handsome green bamboo

The whispers of the guests fill the air around me

My stepfather is named Gu Yuetian, and he runs a pharmaceutical factory, which is quite prosperous. In the Gu family, there is also an older sister, Gu Miyin, who is a few months older than me.

However, at this fearless age, I encountered a person, and from then on, I have kept them in my thoughts for a lifetime

With red-rimmed eyes, I looked at Meng Xilou with a sense of grievance, hoping that he could speak on my behalf, or at least say to Gu Miyin, "Do not pursue this matter."

I owe her more than just a single "I'm sorry"; I owe her a life.

I turned back and glanced at Gu Mi Yin from a distance, then gently embraced Fan Jia

Meng Xilou is indifferent to other girls; his tenderness, his smile, and everything about him is devoted to a girl named Gu Mi Yin

Mother stood up abruptly and said in a tone that brooked no argument: "You are to stay at home and study diligently, and you are not allowed to go anywhere!"

Time came to an abrupt halt, as if even the air had ceased to flow

I felt a pang in my nose, walked over and embraced her, and said without a doubt: "Mom, I will work hard, I swear!"

Although Meng Xilou and I attend the same school, and he often comes to pick up and drop off Gu Mi Yin, I have never spoken a word to him

Yet he does not remember, he does not recall that under the peach blossom tree, during the season of blooming, he once placed a peach blossom in my hair

I did not understand anything else, I only understood one sentence

I am merely an unrelated person

Meng Xilou arrogantly parked his motorcycle at the school gate, causing the girls to scream repeatedly. The sun was shining perfectly that day, and he was dressed in all black, with his chestnut-colored hair looking particularly beautiful in the sunlight

These are undoubtedly Gu Miyin's "masterpieces"; her hostility towards me has always been unmasked. From the moment I entered the Gu family, she has disliked me and has also harbored disdain for my mother

The guests were discussing among themselves, pointing and saying, "How could the store hire such an inconsiderate staff member?" "Why is KFC's service getting worse and worse?"

Classmate, why are you following me

"Gu Mi Yin, return my diary to me!" I suppressed the anger within me and strode forward, grabbing a corner of the diary.

When I lift my head after a busy period and see that familiar figure, all my fatigue vanishes completely

I hurriedly stood up from the bench and squeezed into the crowd.

This wait lasted until 10 PM

Gu Mi Yin pointed at my nose and shouted: "How can your store hire such unqualified employees? They can't even solve a small problem!"

Watching her busy figure, I felt a surge of emotion and asked, "Mom, are you happy?"

I know that it is not actually a smile directed at me, but merely an illusion of my own.

"Return my diary to me quickly!" I said, my voice raised and my neck flushed.

I silently recite in my heart

I placed the hamburger and cola on the plate and respectfully presented it in front of Gu Mi Yin

Seeing the rare smile on my mother's face, I suddenly felt that all the grievances were insignificant. Gu Mi Yin does not have a mother; considering her perspective, at this moment, how much she lacks maternal love.

That afternoon, the wind swept across the river's surface, reflecting two small shadows embracing each other, shattered into a glimmer of light. That afternoon, the last peach blossom fell, and the green leaves danced gracefully.

Gu Yue Tian indeed cannot control Gu Mi Yin

Gu Mi Yin slyly rolled her eyes, smiled again, and replied: "I am not feeling unwell."

When I lifted my eyelids by an inch, I could see my mother's trembling hands, which revealed how furious she was

Meng Xilou asked with concern: "What is wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

Meng Xilou and Gu Miyin are in the same class, and he is also a complete troublemaker, belonging to the so-called bad students in school. Fighting and such are commonplace for him, and he can share the responsibility for punishments with Gu Miyin. He has a good appearance, which makes him quite popular with girls, and I have witnessed several girls confessing their feelings to him.

Those who express their affection for him, he will unhesitatingly declare that they are not his type, while those who deliver love letters are often frightened to tears by the sight of Meng Xilou tearing up the letters.

I saw her sit down, and my heart sank along with her.

Now she sits on the sofa, leisurely applying nail polish to her toes. After finishing, she puffs her cheeks and blows. She has painted her nails a bold red, vibrant and dazzling, just like her personality, always so radiant.

I raised my head and looked at the mockery and pride in Gu Mi Yin's eyes, choosing not to make any defense. In fact, I was not at all saddened by Gu Mi Yin's treatment of me; I was merely upset by Meng Xi Lou's indulgence towards Gu Mi Yin. That pampering demeanor stung my eyes.

After a while, she turned her head to look at me, her eyes red, and said: "Just bear with it, for now we are living under someone else's roof"

South Korea

Gu Mi Yin looked at me like a goddess of victory

I will never go back on my word!" Gu Mi Yin replied without hesitation

Upon hearing these words, my tears fell unexpectedly.

In my childhood, every spring, I loved to play under the peach tree. The peach blossoms would fall all over me, and when I returned home, my hair was filled with petals, leaving my mother both amused and exasperated

My name is Su Xi, I am seventeen years old. My biological father passed away early, and it was my mother who raised me alone. Two and a half years ago, my mother married into the Gu family with me.

The boy that Gu Mi Yin referred to walked in front of us, approximately 1.8 meters tall, with a slender figure. He was wearing a school uniform, and his posture was as upright as a white poplar, making his silhouette pleasing to the eye.

I opened my eyes wide, thinking I was seeing an illusion, and thus uncertainly asked: "Is it really possible?"

There are many young girls nearby screaming and calling out the name Meng Xilou

The little boy in front of me said nothing, but simply placed a branch of peach blossoms in my hair and remarked, "It looks beautiful"

Originally, she was chatting and laughing with Meng Xilou, but when she saw me, the smile on her face froze, and there was a hint of irritation in her expression

October 9

The secrets hidden in the darkness were thus exposed to the sunlight, and my face flushed red and pale, as if I had been stripped bare, and I could only say in a low voice: "Please return my diary to me."

My heart suddenly tightened, and my breathing became labored

I covered my nose and lifted my head, looking at the person in front of me, and was instantly stunned

In my memory, Suhe Town has always been beautiful. Not only because of its scenery, but also because a boy named Meng Xilou suddenly entered my life when I was seven years old

In the morning, I got up early and eagerly wrote the name of Mengxi Building in my notebook. Those unspeakable matters can be recalled simply by looking at a name and a date

Every part of my body hurts, tears wet my cheeks, and I keep whispering "I'm sorry".

A glass of cola, with three ice cubes, thank you

Unexpectedly, Gu Mi Yin suddenly picked up a cola and slowly poured it over my head: "Did I come into the store to see your expression? If you can't solve the problem, you might as well get lost! Where is the boss? Where is the boss?"

I nodded

She turned around and asked displeased, "Where have you been?"

In fact, it is not my fault for calling her that, although she should be older than me, she appears timid.

Meng Xilou whistled as he sent Gu Mi Yin back, plucking a leaf from the large tree at the entrance, seemingly playing a wonderful tune. In reality, the sound of the leaf being blown did not form a melody, yet I silently marked it with the label "Meng Xilou".

Therefore, I always looked forward to growing up. Later, I learned that the little boy was named Meng Xilou, who often sat alone by the river, lost in thought. His silhouette was so lonely, as if the surrounding scenery also became lonely along with him

When the wild geese return in formation, the moon is full over the western tower

It was not supposed to be like this. I quietly glanced around, and seeing that there was no one around, I carelessly wiped away the marks on the glass window, as if I had inadvertently revealed a secret

Having not found a part-time job, I was quite tired from walking, so I found a bench to sit down. Just as I was about to twist off the cap of my water bottle to take a drink, I heard a cheer coming from behind me

Gu Mi Yin is an unadulterated little madwoman, with a dark rose tattooed on the back of her neck. Her skin is already fair, and the rose tattoo only adds to her allure. Her hair is dyed a wine red, and her appearance does not resemble that of a student

I have done something wrong, yet in my heart, I believe it is right

I lay beneath the peach blossom tree, my eyes closed and feeling drowsy, as a gentle breeze brushed against my face, carrying a faint fragrance that was quite pleasant. Suddenly, I sensed an unfamiliar presence approaching and immediately opened my eyes. In my line of sight was a magnified face, with a pair of lively brown eyes and long, curled eyelashes. The person before me was so beautiful, appearing silently and unexpectedly, leading one to suspect that she was sent by the peach blossom fairy.

Vanka is such a kind person

Meng Xilou choked with emotion and said: "My father and mother... are no longer here..."

I gazed at the figure slowly walking away, my eyes feeling somewhat sore

Mengxi Building

In my childhood, I was so naive that I actually sat up in fright, staring at the handsome little boy in front of me, and nervously asked, "Are you... sent by the Peach Blossom Fairy?"

Gu Mi Yin pointed at the sesame seeds on the hamburger and said, "I do not like to eat sesame seeds, please remove them. Also, there are too many bubbles in the cola, I am not used to it, please remove them as well"

Gu Mi Yin appeared indifferent and said: "Whatever"

I raised my head and said, "If not, I can forgo my wages and help for free! Rest assured, I am truly diligent and will not cause you any trouble."

Gu Mi Yin saw that I did not move and raised her voice, saying: "Why don't you take action? Why are you just standing there? Didn't you come over to serve us guests? Can't you even handle this small matter?"

Mother's low voice sounded: "How could you only score this much? How could you possibly score this much?" By the end of her question, her voice trembled slightly, mixed with disbelief

That afternoon, a small person took residence in my heart, and his name was Meng Xilou

This time he is not alone; standing beside him is Gu Mi Yin

The customer is God

This is the result I desire

The neighbors casually talked about how Meng Xilou grew up with his grandmother in the city, as his parents had passed away, which is why he returned. It was the first time I understood that loss could be such a sorrowful matter

For two and a half years, I have endured, and I have truly had enough. I do not know how much longer the future will be, and I must continue to endure, with no end in sight

When I was seven years old, I was always mischievous and playful, maintaining a sense of novelty towards new things and harboring curiosity about the world. At that time, I did not understand what it meant to have a heartbeat, nor did I comprehend the concept of love; I only knew how to play

I was taken aback, then I approached honestly and asked, "Hello, may I ask what you need?"

She leisurely applied nail polish, her nails delicate and beautiful, such a quiet demeanor from her is truly disconcerting

Every word sounds so beautiful, when spoken, it is filled with tenderness, and that kind of affection permeates the heart

I asked my mother why Meng Xilou came here; in a small town, whenever there is a stranger or something happens, it can spread like wildfire.

A glass of cola, with three ice cubes, thank you

Gu Yuetian sat nearby, smoking one cigarette after another, his brow furrowed

Gu Mi Yin turned around, made a face, and mischievously said: "It's none of your business!"

My face burned with embarrassment at Gu Mi Yin's shout

Suddenly, a roar of motorcycle engines came from outside the gate

Having grown up this much, I have not only never hugged a boy, but I have not even touched a boy's hand

I like Meng Xilou, that is a secret, and it can only be a secret

These are all my retributions, all that I deserve. Even though I feel wronged, I must endure it.

Even Gu Yuetian, who usually socializes outside, did not go out, and there was a rare smile in his expression

When there were finally not many people in the store, I walked up to the little girl again and said with a hint of pleading: "I really need this part-time job, the amount of money is not important, I just want... just want..."

I met Meng Xilou in the spring

I will no longer take on a part-time job and will focus on studying at home

Upon returning home, neither my mother nor my stepfather was present, and Gu Miyin was likely in her room. I went back to my bedroom and saw that the items on the desk were in complete disarray, all the books in the bookshelf had fallen to the floor, and the clothes in the wardrobe were strewn everywhere, having been trampled and dirtied.

Every spring, the pink peach blossoms fill the sky, as if the entire Suhe Town is enveloped in the fragrance of peach blossoms

I remember everything about him clearly

I did not tell him that the embrace was merely due to a wager, solely because of the dignity staked by a desperate gambler, for another person, and also to keep a secret.

I watched her silhouette, contemplating how to approach her to get my diary back. If she were to bring the diary to the classroom and make it public, it would be disastrous

On the first day, I arrived at my post on time, changed into my work uniform, and began working. The location of the KFC store is excellent, as it overlooks the open space of the square

I trembled slightly, curled up into a ball, neither dodging nor avoiding, allowing my mother to hit me. She desperately needed an outlet to process the fact that her daughter, who usually performed well, had failed to get into even a third-tier university.

In the gaps of the crowd, I keenly noticed that the person surrounded was Meng Xilou

My mother stroked my head and said, "When you grow up, you will become beautiful"

In order to maintain peace, the supervisor urged, "Since that is the case, change your clothes quickly and leave, so as not to affect the business of this establishment"

What I see is a void, and for a moment, my mind is in a state of emptiness, making it impossible for me to recall anything

The cola in the cup has long been finished, and my stomach is growling with hunger. Those staff members have glanced at me several times, especially that young girl

I curiously turned around and discovered that behind me was actually a vast and flat open space, where many people were gathered in a circle, continuously cheering.

It is not because the name Mengxilou carries my longing for Suhe Town that I hold it in my heart, but rather that it has become a symbol of that period of time in Suhe Town

On the screen is the smiling face of Gu Mi Yin, radiant like a sunflower

It was around that time that I realized there were concepts of beauty and ugliness in the world. At the age of seven, I was in the first grade of elementary school, and while attending school, I secretly observed the people around me. Among the boys, none could compare to Meng Xilou, while most of the girls were more beautiful than I was

The supervisor hurriedly ran out from the inner room, bowed to Gu Mi Yin, and politely asked: "Hello, Miss, may I ask what you need?"

This Mengxi Building is equally dazzling

I numbly traversed the streets and alleys, walked through the crowd, heard the frantic honking of taxi drivers, heard the various calls of discounted sales, and heard different strains of music. Many sounds blended together, leaving one unsure of their whereabouts

At first, she would tear my books, ruin all my clothes, and pour water into my quilt in the middle of winter at midnight. Gu Yuetian would only scold her, while my mother always defended Gu Miyin, saying that the child was still young and that we should not hold grudges.

At the beginning of the third year of high school, Gu Yuetian drove me and Gu Miyin to school. In fact, I didn't want him to give us a ride at all, nor did I want anyone at school to know that Gu Miyin and I were actually sisters. I guess she felt the same way, so at school, no one knew that we were sisters.

He said it looks good

Some people boldly approach and confess their feelings for him, while some girls shyly hand over love letters with flushed faces. At this moment, Meng Xilou's face shows no expression.

Staying at home all day is not a solution, so I went out to look for a part-time job, wandering aimlessly, and before I knew it, I had arrived at the city square

Lying on the bed, the image of Meng Xilou skateboarding keeps swirling in my mind

"How did you end up like this?" Mother asked, raising her voice in distress

Gu Yuetian extinguished his cigarette and said in a deep voice: "Su Xi, you should repeat a year of study."

Is what you say credible

He really does not remember me

My mother called with a smile, saying that our family is about to have a little top scholar, after all, my grades have always been excellent, never falling below the top five in the city

I politely said: "Please do not take the layer with sesame seeds on top, and I will help you replace the cola with orange juice"

I can hear my own breathing, hear the powerful heartbeat of the monk, hear his steady breathing, and I can also hear the gentle breeze passing by my ears. I can smell the faint freshness on him, a scent that inexplicably brings comfort, calming my restless heart.

The sound of my mother's reproach still lingers in my ears, forming a stark contrast with such leisure

Seeing that I was silent, my mother picked up the feather duster beside her and swung it fiercely at me. With tears in her eyes, she scolded, "All these years have truly been in vain! If you can't get into university, what can you do? Who would dare to hire you if you go out to work?"

Gu Mi Yin used to be a very cheerful girl, unmarked by any tattoos, and she would smile at everyone she met. However, after the passing of her mother, her temperament changed drastically

He does not know me, yet I have deeply hidden him in my heart, even unwilling to take him out to share

I bowed and, in a conciliatory manner, said "I am sorry," hoping that this apology would alleviate the resentment in her heart

I gave her a big smile: "Thank you, Mom"

Whenever Gu Mi Yin bullies me, my mother always says: "Just endure it, it will pass." Or she says: "We are currently living under someone else's roof, you need to be more compliant."

I resemble a scavenger, collecting bits and pieces of memories and carefully preserving them

September 27

When I was lost in thought, my mother grabbed my arm and forcefully pulled me a few steps inward, then she tugged at me a few times with great intensity

Mother paused as she picked up something and said slowly: "A mother's happiness is all tied to you."

I remember so many things, every detail, repeatedly tracing them every night, as if I want to engrave them into my bones, never to forget for a lifetime

Meng Xilou's words were like a dagger, piercing a deep hole in my chest

The sound of sobbing made me feel increasingly guilty, as my selfishness has caused my mother to be this sad

Nominally, Gu Mi Yin is my elder sister, but she does not exhibit the slightest semblance of an elder sister.

Gu Mi Yin deliberately shook the notebook in her hand and said proudly: "You can come and take it"