Chapter 2, I like you the most

Han Yulu and her boyfriend have maintained a stable relationship, while Feng Ya has also started dating this semester. Such situations are always difficult to conceal from roommates who share their daily lives.

She felt that the girl looked somewhat familiar; such a appearance was truly hard to forget.

The phone rang

Li Zhixing smiled and said, "I am preparing to return to the city, waiting for the bus."

Li Zhixing gently shook his head: "Not entirely. The matters of the world are quite complex and cannot be generalized. Moreover... I do not feel that I have been of much help; with your abilities, you will always find a solution."

It is not that, it is just that Yan Xiaodong mentioned her to me

Yu Xibai helplessly said: "Mom ... ... "

With just one sentence, Li Zhixing roughly figured out the reason behind it

My bag is still at the hotel

Having studied at the university for two years, apart from mandatory activities that required her to leave campus, Tang Mi had hardly stepped outside the school gates, and her understanding of the capital city was only slightly better than nothing. She felt that asking Li Zhixing was a good choice

Your father must have been very popular with girls at that time

Only then did she recall the principle of reflection, oh, although it was a narrow elevator space, there were countless Li Zhixing.

The gate of Kyoto University loomed ahead, yet Li Zhixing stopped, appearing to be deep in thought

Hmm..." Tang Mi said, "Whether one likes something or not cannot be forced. It's just that—"

He has already consulted the map, and the small inn at Jiaheju is conveniently located along the downhill path, reachable within a fifteen-minute walk

She is already on her way back. Li Zhixing would not mention her waiting for him at the fork in the road, skillfully changing the subject, "I came to get her backpack, where is her room?"

Tang Mi looked at him and asked, "What is it?"

Tang Mi lowered her head, staring intently at her phone, sitting dazed in front of the piano. Then, there were no more messages from the other party.

"No, that's not it," Tang Mi explained with difficulty, "For example, Guan Wei really likes you."

"Did you come over for a walk?" Li Zhixing asked tentatively, "Aren't you with that group from the Mathematics Department?"

The bus stop is quite small, with a section of the mountain road protruding outward. Below it, there is a wooden bench where pedestrians can sit and wait for the bus. Once two people sit on the wooden bench, there is no space left. In early May in the north, it has not truly warmed up yet, thus it can be referred to as late spring. The nights in the mountains are much cooler than in the urban area; once one stops walking, it becomes distinctly noticeable that a cool breeze is blowing out from the forest, carrying a somewhat rare sense of moisture

The Yiyuan Community consists of six-story buildings, and the per capita area is certainly above the average level of the city. The community appears to be somewhat aged, but precisely because of its age, the environment is quite pleasant, with shaded trees and lush gardens. The two did not delay much and entered the community, going upstairs to open the door and enter the house. In an instant, the room was filled with bright light, and Tang Mi felt a bit dazzled for a moment. After a few seconds, she adjusted to the light and began to survey her surroundings

No...

Luo Zhiwei and Li Zhixing had met at school, and he provided an explanation: "They are high school classmates, it should be fine."

I am leaving early and do not wish to call for a car anymore

Ah, is that so?" Tang Mi was taken aback.

"What girls like should be someone like you," Tang Mi said

I am sorry, Li Zhixing. You are so outstanding that you can find someone better than me

Ms. Liu, Yu Xibai's mother, interjected: "Zhi Xing, it's rare to meet today, why don't you and your classmate get in the car and go together."

Hmm..." Tang Mi looked up at him

She softly said, "This song sounds very familiar"

The girls' dormitory is similar to the boys' dormitory; during late-night talks, the topics of conversation often revolve around the same gossip about men and women.

Yu Xibai sat in the passenger seat, looking at the two people on the bench, slightly surprised: "Zhi Xing, what are you doing here?"

He stood by the piano, his body still enveloped in the steam from the bathroom, his hair not yet completely dry. He reached out to block her hand as she was closing the piano lid, alternating between his index and middle fingers to play a few notes, quite smoothly.

Li Zhixing did not provide any additional explanation regarding her parents' passing, allowing Ms. Liu to continue misunderstanding without any detriment

"It's nothing." Ye Yichao remained silent for a long time before finally speaking, "You can rest assured, Li Zhixing will take care of her."

Have you told your mother

I understand my own feelings very well" Li Zhixing looked directly into her eyes "I am not mistaken

Tang Mi said softly, "Is that so?"

The bitterness in Li Zhixing's heart rendered his voice somewhat hoarse: "I wasn't very certain before, but seeing your attitude now has confirmed it. But that is not important. Tang Mi, could you please consider me, alright?"

That is good

Yes...

"Please wait a moment," Li Zhixing said while searching the internet on his phone, secretly pondering why she was planning to leave now when she had only just arrived at noon. Moreover, she was not carrying anything with her. "There is a bus at the halfway point that goes back to the city, and it stops running at 9 PM. It is about four kilometers to walk from here."

"It sounds really nice," she said in a thin voice, unable to come up with a better compliment, and could only double her praise, "Really, it sounds very nice, thank you."

Tang Mi followed him into the house, cautiously surveying the room. This three-bedroom apartment featured a spacious living room with an elegant decor that was not overly intricate. In one corner of the living room stood a large, glossy black grand piano. It was evident that someone regularly cleaned this place, as there was not a speck of dust on the piano.

Yu Xibai also said: "That may not be the case. This bus is still uncertain as to when it will arrive"

Well, my mother's house. It was left to my mother by my grandfather, who was a professor at Huazhong University of Science and Technology.

Continuing to ask would likely only leave her feeling disheartened, so in the end, Ms. Liu could only exclaim: "What an outstanding child! Your parents must be very proud of you"

I just checked the bus route. Walk down the mountain road for three kilometers, and the guesthouse where you are staying is right along this route. Li Zhixing showed her his phone. The last bus departs at 9 o'clock, and it is currently 8 o'clock, so if we leave now, we will still make it.

Tang Mi is an extraordinary individual, possessing both intelligence and diligence. Her formidable resume is enough to overshadow the vast majority of students in the world, even giving a sense of superiority over the relatively outstanding Yu Xibai. As various pieces of information are reported, and upon seeing her face, which remains strikingly beautiful even in the night, the impact is such that Ms. Liu can only sigh inwardly, retracting her earlier assessment of the product.

Her ears were ringing, and her face was devoid of color: "Do you know ... ... "

Do not be afraid

The auction will commence at 7:30 PM. As the host takes the stage, the indoor atmosphere becomes lively and noisy. Mother has long been in charge of the proceedings, and Li Zhixing feels a sense of relief, taking the opportunity to step out of the hall for some fresh air. Unexpectedly, just as he reaches the courtyard, he encounters Tang Mi.

Li Zhixing finally unfastened the watch on his wrist and placed it on the coffee table

She is not foolish. Li Zhixing's three-piece suit is impeccably tailored, clearly indicating that he has matters to attend to at the Cangshan Hotel. Moreover, given his status, why would he need to take the bus? Even if there is no dedicated vehicle or convenient transport available, it would be quite easy for him to simply call for a car.

Listening to your accent, you are not from the north

I will not let you encounter any trouble. If you take one step towards me, I will take the remaining ninety-nine steps, is that acceptable

For someone with a crush, yearning yet being unable to attain it is likely to be very painful

Classmates

Because Li Zhixing is taller than her, for the vast majority of the time, she can only look up at him, and only when sitting can she meet his gaze at eye level—yet now, his half-kneeling posture makes him appear much shorter, allowing her for the first time in her life to look down at this tall boy she has known for nearly five years. He has just taken a shower, and his shirt carries the fresh scent of starch, with a hint of moisture in his hair, which is as black as ink.

What about high school classmates? I am referring to Tang Mi's safety issue!" Cao Wei emphasized, "Someone like him looks like he is not in the same dimension as us, okay!

Love Story, during high school, I played it at the school's New Year party

However, it is quite coincidental that I also plan to go back, so let's go down the mountain together to take the bus. Li Zhixing checked the map on his phone and showed the route to Tang Mi.

No, I cannot afford to have confidence in this. She lowered her eyes, avoiding Li Zhixing's gaze, "You have said before that I should not dwell on those entangled matters, but if I am with you, everything will become very complicated. There are many things I need to do, and I am unable to cope with so many troubles"

The living room, now bright again, rendered everything exposed; for a moment, she wished it would remain dark instead.

Please take a seat, I will play the piano for you

"There is no ... ..." Lü Ziyi was caught in a loophole, feeling somewhat awkward. After a pause, she said, "Ye Yichao had good intentions, yet she turned her back and left, not even willing to come back to pack her bag.

Upon arriving in the city, Yu's mother and daughter were very courteous, only allowing the two to disembark after taking them near Peking University

In reality, very few classmates from high school still maintain contact with Tang Mi, apart from occasional communication at Peking University and Huazhong University of Science and Technology, the only remaining connection is with Yan Xiaodong

She is well aware of the reasoning her mother expressed, feeling greatly that it is not due to her own lack of effort, but rather the formidable strength of her opponents

I have not heard of Li Zhixing, it is probably a small vacation inn

Under the faint light of the inn, Tang Mi silently took the backpack from Li Zhixing and put it on her back. The road down the mountain was very quiet, with only the occasional car passing by, its bright headlights shining. The air in the mountains was truly refreshing, the night breeze gently brushing against her face, the leaves exuding a fresh fragrance, and looking up, one could see the vast Milky Way.

Li Zhixing pointed to the other side of the road, where a community named Yiyuan was less than one kilometer away from Kyoto University, gazing at each other across the street: "I want to go home to change clothes and take a shower. Besides, my backpack is still at home..." As he spoke, his pace slowed down, "Will you accompany me back?"

For instance, when Tang Mi says "School of Management," Li Zhixing will add, "the hardest to get into is the Finance Department." Tang Mi then mentions, "I chose a double degree." Li Zhixing seemingly nonchalantly remarks, "It's a double degree in Mathematics." ... In all these instances, Tang Mi has looked at him several times with a bewildered expression.

Arrived

Li Zhixing smiled and asked, "Is it time for the group photo?"

Before her words had faded, a bright beam of light swept in from the distance, and the two turned to look towards the source of the light—unfortunately, it was not a bus, but a white SUV. In the next moment, the vehicle came to a sudden stop beside them, and the partially rolled-down window slid all the way down, revealing a fair face.

She said, "All along, have you been helping me like this because you like me?"

How could he not know? Li Zhixing smiled wryly as he watched her for so long from behind; how could he possibly be unaware of her thoughts

The notion that music cultivates the soul is a grand proposition; I do not have any concrete feelings about it, but at times, it indeed benefits the improvement of one's thinking. Li Zhixing smiled as he walked to one side of the living room wall, his long fingers tapping twice on the switch, causing the living room to instantly darken

Tang Mi's heart skipped a beat, and she slowly raised her head to say: "I should thank you for not saying those words that would make me approach the situation rationally and view the problem dialectically"

Tang Mi was captivated as she observed such high-end musical instruments up close. The lines of the piano body were graceful, and the lacquered surface gleamed. She was entranced, her fingers gliding gently like flowing water over the textured black and white keys. She did not apply any force, and naturally, the piano did not produce any sound.

When did you arrive

What happened

"Well, my grandfather passed away several years ago," Li Zhixing said. "I lived here for a while when I was a child, and then I moved away. After I started university, I cleaned this apartment again, and occasionally when I need to stay up late, I come here to stay."

She did not say anything further, merely shifting her body to stand beside Li Zhixing. Ahead was a 180-degree bend, with cars ascending the winding road, their bright lights illuminating the two of them from afar. Next to the bend were several residential houses, and the fragrant scent of orchids wafted into the air, reaching the noses of the two.

Arrived at noon

During the two years back in Yanjing studying, Li Zhixing accompanied his mother to several large-scale social events. While such activities can indeed facilitate social connections and are not entirely without merit, Li Zhixing personally harbored little interest in them. He lacked enthusiasm and engaged in small talk with others as if it were a mere formality, yet he maintained a composed demeanor.

What did she tell you?

If Tang Mi had a drum in her heart, then Li Zhixing's evaluation would be like a hammer, striking the drumhead suddenly and creating ripples.

She listened intently, and as the piece concluded, the room fell silent, so much so that one could hear a pin drop.

Almost none

Previously

The two ascended the stairs, and Lu Ziyi led Li Zhixing into the room. She saw him accurately locate Tang Mi's backpack in the room, and he gathered the two books scattered on the table and placed them into the backpack. Leaning against the doorframe, she smiled slightly and said, "She is not sick; she just doesn't want to come back, right?"

Li Zhixing sat down at the piano, and his unhurried narration gradually brought Tang Mi back to her senses

In reality, although Tang Mi experiences considerable academic pressure, due to good habits and excellent study methods, she is always able to resolve all academic issues within the seventeen hours from waking up at 6:00 AM to going to bed at 11:00 PM, and has never been forced into a situation where she "had to stay up late"

At this reminder, Tang Mi immediately realized that his impeccably tailored suit was indeed not suitable for returning to the dormitory

"You should have heard it," Li Zhixing said with a hint of laughter in his voice, "I mentioned that I would play it for you again"

Li Zhixing first greeted Yu Xibai's mother, then asked her: "What brings you here?"

I am a boy and I am very clear about the type that girls like the most. Li Zhixing tried to steer the conversation in a light-hearted direction

She made a victory gesture and said, "No problem!"

Why are you apologizing? This is not your responsibility

How are you?" Li Zhixing smiled at her, "I came to the hotel to accompany my mother to a charity auction. Now that my task is complete, I originally planned to return to the city. Since I ran into you, I thought it would be nice to take the bus back together.

"As long as you like it, it is worth my time to practice," Li Zhixing said with a smile, "If I really had to play other pieces, I wouldn't be able to."

I just ran into Tang Mi," Li Zhixing explained, "She was feeling unwell and went back to school to rest. You all can enjoy yourselves over the next few days without needing to wait for her.

"She lives with me." The only girl in the group, Lu Ziyi, raised her hand and said, "Come with me."

Ms. Liu was indeed very curious about Tang Mi. After clarifying her background, she began to inquire about her school and major. Tang Mi responded briefly with a polite attitude, but occasionally her answers were so dry that when the atmosphere in the car became uncomfortable, Li Zhixing would calmly add a few words to help.

Do you still have contact with her now

"No, it's not that simple," Tang Mi still shook her head

I want to return to school

Li Zhixing replied that the person driving was Liu Nüshang, Yu Xibai's mother

Yu Xibai is not someone who enjoys lively gatherings, and this is the first time Li Zhixing has seen her in such an occasion

This is not a good omen. Li Zhixing observed her expression, but in the dim and hazy night, everything was unclear.

The bus has been delayed for a long time, and Li Zhixing said: "Let me see your father's photo"

Li Zhixing let out a sound of surprise, perfectly expressing his astonishment. He found nothing strange about it; just moments ago, he had seen Ms. Fu in the hall purchasing a painting and donating money to her mother's charity association. At that time, Ms. Fu's expression showed no signs of abnormality, appearing completely calm.

Ms. Liu let out a laugh: "How is that possible? Throughout this journey, how many times did Li Zhixing help her with her words? Not only did she leave with Tang Mi ahead of Zhang Jingyu to attend the auction, but she also walked down the mountain? Waiting for the bus on a dark mountain road? Are they just ordinary classmates? This is an insult to three-year-olds."

Hmm?" Tang Mi looked at him in confusion

Ms. Liu also said, "There is no need to take it too seriously, it's just on the way"

"When we are in the dormitory, they occasionally joke with me," Tang Mi said

Ye Yichao

Li Zhixing, how could you like me? You must be mistaken...

After a considerable amount of groundwork, Tang Mi could not say she was too surprised, yet the moment the event truly occurred, the shock remained undiminished.

Alright

Lü Ziyi smiled awkwardly

At this moment, Tang Mi suddenly felt a strange sensation—as if fate had suddenly materialized, transforming into a gigantic hand that grasped the collar at the back of her neck and threw her onto the turning point of her life, leaving her no room for contemplation

If one were to decisively refuse a small matter such as accepting a ride from the other party's generous invitation, it would likely put the Yu family's mother and daughter in an awkward position.

What a pity..." Luo Zhiwei looked at Ye Yichao with a face full of regret, "I hope it wasn't due to anger.

Without waiting for Li Zhixing to respond, Yu Xibai's gaze immediately fell on the girl beside him. This girl had fair and radiant skin, and a pair of beautiful almond-shaped eyes that still sparkled in the night, truly dazzling and impossible to ignore. Thus, she asked: "Zhixing, who is this?"

Just by looking into her eyes, one can tell that her mind is made up, and further discussion would be futile. She has always been strong and courageous, even her decisions are not subject to change.

"There is no such thing." Li Zhixing said

She is not without experiences of receiving confessions, but she has always responded calmly; only at this moment is she flustered and at a loss.

Although I was initially reluctant, after studying for a while, I came to realize that music is truly a wonderful thing

My grandmother came to see me earlier. She briefly recounted her encounter with Ms. Fu on the road during the day

Before Li Zhixing could finish his sentence, his voice faltered. He saw Tang Mi rummaging through her backpack to pull out a white and blue hooded sweatshirt.

at the nearby Jiahe Residence

She recalled that during her first year of high school, Li Zhixing would often come to her with strange math and physics problems to ask her about

Ms. Liu wore a smile, yet her gaze was fixed on Tang Mi, devoid of any malice, carrying a hint of the evaluative look familiar to Li Zhixing, as if assessing items on a shelf.

Tang Mi said: "In high school, there were many girls in the school who liked you"

How?

He stood at the entrance, changed his shoes, opened the door, and took her hand as they walked outside

Since we are already in the car, there is no need to be polite, Li Zhixing said: "If it is on the way, just drop us off near Kyoto University."

Yes

The chaotic sounds of discussion reached Li Zhixing's ears. He glanced around and immediately understood the situation, walking over. Due to the relationship between Ye Yichao and Tang Mi, Li Zhixing had encountered this group of boys from the Euclid Club almost all of whom were in the realm of "knowing each other but hardly having interacted".

Ms. Liu glanced at Tang Mi through the rearview mirror—this female classmate of Li Zhixing had always maintained a rather indifferent and silent demeanor. She was quite interested in her and asked with a smile: "Are you also planning to return to school?"

Indeed, it is a brilliant move, thought Li Zhixing. The highest realm of negotiation is truly to win the heart, and it is no wonder that she is the mother of Tang Mingsheng; this tactic has been executed exceptionally well

Li Zhixing said no more, picked up his backpack, and went downstairs, nodding farewell to the talented students of the Mathematics Department

Li Zhixing's voice came through the moonlight, and in the next moment, the curtains in the living room were completely drawn open. The silver glow of the moonlight and the community streetlights spilled into the living room through the window. Tang Mi's vision gradually returned, and she saw Li Zhixing sitting upright in front of the piano. He turned his head, made a gesture of calmness towards her in the night, pointed to the sofa, and slightly raised a smile.

Today there have been too many changes, she hasn't reacted at all, just saw Li Zhixing taking out a backpack from a certain room and nodding to her.

Tang Mi clasped her hands, not answering directly. It is easy to say to return to the city, but it is not that simple in practice. Her backpack is still at the family inn—if she goes back to retrieve it, she will inevitably encounter Ye Yichao and Lü Ziyi.

Tang Mi and Li Zhixing looked at each other for a while, thinking, "Today is really an unusual day. Everyone we know has gathered on this remote mountain."

Her words were filled with emotion, causing Li Zhixing's heart to tremble. Tang Mi was not a sentimental person, nor was she particularly adept at empathy. The number of boys she had decisively rejected without mercy was countless, and among those with impure motives, there were also many who genuinely admired her in their hearts. However, she had never felt any remorse for this, always wearing an expression that seemed to say, "Stay away from me, don't bother me." Yet at this moment, she was expressing her thoughts on the feelings of her "secret admirers."

He glanced at her: "She just doesn't like to talk, she's not indifferent, and can be humiliated."

Li Zhixing's movements while playing the piano are not large; his posture is upright, with only his ten fingers dancing across the keys

She stared at Li Zhixing for a long time, recalling numerous past events... She remembered the time when she struggled with English, and he took the initiative to suggest "tutoring"; she remembered the image of him standing in the hospital corridor when her grandmother was bedridden... It's indescribable, with so many things.

No, nothing...

It is not surprising that the Li family has a house nearby; what is surprising is his invitation—Tang Mi was astonished: "Are you saying I should go to your house?"

Seeing Li Zhixing in a suit wearing his own sportswear, even Tang Mi felt a twinge of compassion, so she quietly stuffed the clothes back into her backpack

He said he wanted to ease the relationship with me and even gave me a photo of my father

Two people stood at the elevator door, watching the numbers jump one by one. The corridor was silent and empty, with only the faint hissing sound of the elevator in operation. Finally, it stopped at the sixth floor, the doors opened, revealing an empty interior. The two entered the elevator, one after the other. In the narrow elevator space, the multiple energy-saving lights scattered at the top flickered like stars, and the walls of the elevator were made of metallic mirrors, clearly reflecting the tall figures of the people beside them, one, two, three... countless. Inside the elevator, all around were the reflections of Li Zhixing.

As Ms. Liu turned onto another main road, she watched a young man and woman walking towards Peking University, their figures disappearing from the rearview mirror

Alright, let's go

However, it's quite late at night, and it's not safe for her, a girl, to be out alone

Li Zhixing? What are you doing here?

I

Why was Li Zhixing at Cangshan Hotel? It was actually a coincidence. The charity association under Zhang Jingyu's jurisdiction held an auction at Cangshan Hotel. This event was a regular one with a large scale. The proceeds from the auction will be used to donate to underprivileged children. Hundreds of social celebrities attended. Following his mother's suggestion, Li Zhixing also participated in this event.

"Is that so? Then, Xiao Tang, you are also from Peking University, which college are you in?"

Tang Mi said: "If I do not cause you any trouble..."

She thought that her feelings for Ye Yichao were a secret, and she had hidden them very well, believing that no one would discover them. However, at this moment, being pointed out so mercilessly by Li Zhixing was like having her veil of modesty lifted and then being slapped in the face.

Tang Mi continued in the same tone: "Does music cultivate the soul?"

My viewpoint is quite simple: if you hate them, then continue to hate; if you ignore them, then continue to ignore; if you cannot let go, then do not let go. Your grandparents will neither affect your grades nor change your life, so there is no need to pay them any mind

"Have you offended her?" Li Zhixing's mind raced through several scenarios, yet his expression remained impassive, as if he had merely asked a casual question

In the moonlight, Li Zhixing's figure appeared somewhat blurred, but she could see clearly as Li Zhixing rose from the piano and walked towards her

Although it was only a few seconds, it was enough for Li Zhixing to see Ye Yichao's message clearly—there is no doubt that Tang Mi's emotions, which had originally stabilized, were disrupted by this message. If it were merely because Ye Yichao's words were not what she wanted to hear, Tang Mi would not have shown such an expression

He is my classmate, named Tang Mi

Thank you for remembering the careless words from those years

Is it useful

Is it necessary? Tang Mi is not a child anymore and knows the way back.

Indeed

Ms. Liu glanced at her daughter thoughtfully and asked, "Have you met that girl named Tang Mi before?"

Do you discuss this topic with girls

Whether we believe it or not does not affect their relationship

There is actually a bus stop in these remote mountains and wild hills, which is really a pleasant surprise. Tang Mi's eyes lit up.

Indeed, there is no difference..." Lv Ziyi pondered, "However, I have truly witnessed another side of her. I used to think she was the kind of person who, while not easy to approach, would not offend anyone.

If it were a normal situation, Tang Mi might have refused outright, but now it's different--she doesn't know if it's because of his attentive gaze or because she remembers the journey back from Cangshan with Li Zhixing by her side.

How many steps is the distance from the entrance to the door

"I have a piece of clothing here that you can wear..." she said

Although I didn't particularly like you at that time, the questions you asked me were very interesting

"Tang Mi, what is wrong with you?"

Even though Tang Mi was feeling restless and conflicted, he was completely stunned upon hearing Li Zhixing's words

Ms. Liu casually asked, "Zhi Xing, where are you going?"

She just needs to take a break, and she asked me to convey her apologies to you all said Li Zhixing with a smile

"It's quite good; they are complete strangers to you. If you don't want to pay attention to them, then don't." said Li Zhixing

Li Zhixing went to the wardrobe to get a set of clothes and entered the bathroom, leaving Tang Mi alone in the living room. Soon, the sound of water came from the bathroom. With nothing else to do, she walked over to the piano and sat down, casually lifting the piano lid.

Although both sets of parents intended to bring them together, in order to avoid further complications, he made his intentions clear to Yu Xibai early on. Yu Xibai did not mind and simply said, "Then let's be ordinary friends." Li Zhixing did not want to hurt the girl's feelings, so this ordinary friendship was established.

I am leaving, thank you all. I apologize once again for the matter concerning Tang Mi

"There is no need to be modest." Ms. Liu sighed deeply

"You pity me, or perhaps feel guilty..." she murmured, "This is impossible"

Li Zhixing does not have a girlfriend. Yu Xibai looked ahead in confusion, "They are classmates and friends, right"

She said her mood is not good, but in the options of her life, there has never been the concept of "being together with Li Zhixing"

Why is it not possible? Do you like someone else

Li Zhixing was almost kneeling in front of her: "Could you have a little faith in me?"

Tang Mi asked him: "Are you cold?"

The lobby of this ordinary guesthouse cannot be compared to that of a five-star hotel, but it is nonetheless clean, bright, and refreshingly tidy

You have a significant advantage, which is that your judgment is not influenced by your emotions. The changes happening around you do not affect the path you are on; just keep it up. Li Zhixing said, "I recall your attitude towards me in the first year of high school; it was quite interesting. Although you were not keen on engaging with me, you would still provide detailed answers when I sought your advice on questions.

No, this has nothing to do with Ye Yichao..." Tang Mi calmed her breath, "It's just that being with you is impossible.

Li Zhixing released her hand: "Let's go back to the dormitory. It's already past ten o'clock."

I am not cold," Li Zhixing said firmly

Therefore, I say this is your strength: not allowing personal likes and dislikes to influence your judgment. With such an attitude, you are well-equipped to navigate the world. " Li Zhixing smiled gently

Nothing there," Tang Mi said.

Although he knew it was difficult to discuss this topic with her, when she actually spoke it out loud, Li Zhixing still felt as if he had been struck hard

Years of being a top student were not in vain; Tang Mi's memory surpassed that of the vast majority. After searching her memory, she finally recalled that there was indeed such a matter. She had once remarked that this piece of music was beautiful, and Li Zhixing had expressed his intention to play it for her again

I do not want to pay attention to her

Li Zhixing finished his shower and changed his clothes, just in time to see her with her head down, lost in thought. He placed the dry towel he used to dry his hair on the coffee table and walked towards Tang Mi

Tang Bi remained silent after getting into the car. She was not the type to enjoy interacting with strangers, and she particularly disliked being in debt to others. Having no connection with the mother and daughter, she felt uneasy about hitching a ride with Li Zhixing.

"Yes," Li Zhixing said, "I just wanted to see when you would no longer be able to tolerate me, but you answered every question without ever showing impatience."

"There is no one else, just me living here occasionally." Li Zhixing slowed his tone, staring at her without blinking, "Will you accompany me back, okay?"

Li Zhixing said, "So how did you respond?"

"Tang Mi, I have thought about it many times as well, but it is not so," Li Zhixing's words were unequivocal. "If it were merely that, I could have withdrawn long ago. But it is still not possible; what I cherish the most is you"

Tang Mi, let us go

If it were Tang Mi herself, she would rather wait another ten minutes for the bus than take this inconsequential ride. However, with Li Zhixing present, if she does not leave, he is unlikely to leave either—why should she let him waste time accompanying her?

Because of me, you and Guan Wei have become like strangers. I apologize

The moonlight tonight is exceptionally abundant, a fact that Tang Mi had already noticed on Cangshan Mountain. This moonlight radiates with considerable power even in the urban area, surprisingly not overshadowed by the city lights. In the next moment, a beautiful melody began to play in the living room

In the darkness of the night, unable to see anything, Tang Mi was taken aback and stood up to look around: "Li Zhixing?"

Li Zhixing asked, "Are you willing to speak?"

"I heard that my idol is here tonight, so I asked my mother to take me to see the excitement," Yu Xibai said, pointing to a famous movie star in the front row

Tang Mi moved her lips, but didn't say a word for a long time. It was two or three years ago when she and Li Zhixing made this agreement. She had completely forgotten about it, but he actually remembered it until now?

"What?" Luo Zhiwei and Li Zhixing have met a few times. Although they were surprised by his appearance, their conversation was also casual. "Weren't you fine just an hour ago? Why suddenly feel unwell? Where is she now?"

Li Zhixing used the flashlight function of his mobile phone to take a look at these obviously old photos. The elegant and handsome young man did not smile much, not even in the photos, with a similar expression to the ones he had seen on Li Zewen's computer before. He sighed lightly and returned the photos.

Li Zhixing had called her name many times, but never with such solemnity; those two characters fell upon Tang Mi's heart like a sudden drumbeat, unexpected and indescribable. After so many years as classmates, she knew what Li Zhixing was like when he was serious. After the initial shock, she realized she could not evade the situation and must give Li Zhixing a response

I actually do not enjoy learning the piano; it is quite tedious. However, my mother, being a person whose inner self is always tied to the artistic youth of her era, particularly hopes that I will be versatile, so she hired a teacher to instruct me

Watching him leave with an air of arrogance, the male students from the mathematics department exchanged glances. Cao Wei nudged the sullen-faced Ye Yichao, saying, "Hey, Ye Yichao, this is not scientific! Are we just going to let him take Tang Mi away like this?"

Before the auction began, he met Yu Xibai. Yu Xibai came with her mother, wearing a white dress and greeted him with a smile.

"I know it is difficult, but it is not impossible," Li Zhixing said. "Nothing in this world can be achieved overnight; there will always be challenges. I will overcome them step by step. I will persuade my parents and elders, and I will convince anyone who poses any resistance to us."

"You like Ye Yichao, I know, but Ye Yichao is not the one who will accompany you to the end."

As the continuation of the tragic ending of Tang Xue and Jiang Lingbai, the case of her uncle's failed marriage is still present before her eyes, and she truly cannot ignore or overlook all of this

His profile bathed in moonlight, the young man in a white shirt played the piano under the moon. The moonlight blurred the details of his face, and Tang Mi could only see the straight bridge of his nose and the perfect curve of his lips and chin. In that moment, Tang Mi felt that the beautiful music was less a flow from Li Zhixing's fingertips than a melody played by the moonlight itself

"Has anyone ever said these words to you?" Li Zhixing asked, "Ye Yichao?"

"Have you considered finding a boyfriend as well?" Although Li Zhixing's tone was calm, he felt a bit nervous inside

She stood there alone, her complexion and condition were far from good. Upon hearing his voice, she was startled and let out a soft "ah".

She broke free from Li Zhixing's grasp, stood up, and casually picked up her backpack.

"Yes," Yu Xibai said, "I came to Peking University before to look for Zhixing and met her once."

Li Zhixing turned his thoughts and inquired with a sidelong glance at Tang Mi, "We have been waiting for twenty minutes, and we still do not know when the bus will arrive"

She took out her phone from her pocket, opened it, and saw a text message from Ye Yichao, which was very brief, consisting of only a few words

He lowered his head and kissed her fingertips slowly, then raised his head with clear and persistent eyes.

In the dimness of the night, even though it was clear that one could not discern his expression, Tang Mi still turned her gaze to the left where Li Zhixing was walking. Just then, their eyes met, and his dark eyes shone like jewels

"Not only a high school classmate but also a college classmate..." Ms. Liu shook her head with a sigh, "With such a girl by Li Zhixing's side, you really have it tough..."

In the center of the hall, a group of young people is discussing the route to find Tang Mi

Li Zhixing opened the back door, allowing her to get in, and he followed suit by sitting down as well

Where do you live

What is it, after all

She stood up holding her backpack and bowed her head to thank the Yu family mother and daughter, saying, "Well... thank you both."

Ye Yichao finally spoke: "Where is she?"

It must be said that Li Zhixing, in his impeccably tailored suit and meticulously tied tie, stands in stark contrast to the several impoverished university students around him, who are dressed in T-shirts and flip-flops. Li Zhixing's inherent mature demeanor, combined with the added prestige of his obviously expensive formal attire, truly brightens the lobby of this family-run inn.

This unproductive conversation truly cannot satisfy Ms. Liu, but at this moment, Li Zhixing took over the topic: "Aunt Liu, she is my classmate from high school and university, a person from the south"

She gathered her spirits and asked Li Zhixing in front of her, "Um, do you know if there are any vehicles nearby that can take me back to the city?"

Tang Mi replied after a moment, "Yes, that is the case"

She was so unhappy when she left, yet Ye Yichao still sent a text message to inquire about her well-being

"You should consider that nothing has happened in this room before; once we step out of this door, we will return to being friends"

Ye Yichao, I think it would be best for us to split into three groups

Is that something that happens occasionally

No one would doubt that Tang Mi is wooden, it's just that she has been expressionless for too long, which makes people forget that she still has any extra emotions.

"What Ye Yichao said is not entirely wrong," Li Zhixing said, "but this does not apply to you"

She saw Li Zhixing's figure moving in the moonlight; he walked to the sofa and turned the light back on

Li Zhixing smiled and said, "That is truly wonderful, let us go."

Li Zhixing smiled and declined, saying, "Aunt Liu, it is not a bother for you; the bus will arrive very soon"

But, it is not possible

Li Zhixing understood in his heart—Tang Mi was alone, without any luggage or backpack, which suggested she had come from nearby. He recalled asking her before May Day if she had any plans, to which she had mentioned an event with classmates from the Euclid Club. He was not particularly surprised and did not inquire further—he assumed that the activities led by Ye Yichao's mathematics club were merely discussions on mathematical problems, not realizing that this time they had finally ventured out of the campus

When I was a child, I would sit here practicing the piano

Li Zhixing loosened his tie with one hand. It was only now that Tang Mi truly saw Li Zhixing's attire—he had pulled off the dark plaid tie and removed his suit jacket, revealing a matching vest underneath, and beneath the vest was a fitted white shirt, crisp and neat, accentuating the lines of his waist and back.

Not cold, it's you--

Both of the two people in your dormitory have boyfriends, right

Yu Xibai turned around with a smile and looked at Li Zhixing, saying, "Speaking of which, what made you think of taking the bus? There are so many cars at the hotel."

She followed along

I'll help you take it out. There's no need to wait for her to realize the flaw in her words. Li Zhixing put his phone in his pocket and pulled her along, saying "Let's go."

"Tang Mi, I like you." Li Zhixing gazed into her eyes, "Will you be with me?"

The intense emotions in his gaze surged like a tidal wave, almost overwhelming her; for the first time in her life, she felt what it meant to be "suffocated"

"Li Zhixing is an outstanding young man in every aspect; I have never seen any boy who can compare to him." Ms. Liu said thoughtfully, "However, I wonder what his parents think of Tang Mi. I will inquire about it later."

Li Zhixing is very clear about Ms. Liu's concerns and focus. He is a young man who has had a "blind date" with Yu Xibai. It is said that Ms. Liu is very satisfied with him and seems to regard him as a "prospective son-in-law"ーーAt this moment, when the mother and daughter saw him alone with a girl in the mountains in the middle of the night, it is impossible not to think crookedlyーーThe key point is, even if one were to think crookedly, there is nowhere to go.

Long time no see

Ah... Tang Mi finally came to her senses and hurriedly closed her phone, saying, "I was just looking at the piano"

Hmm

"......" Tang Mi's voice was somewhat hoarse, "What?"

Are you coming with me?

Clearly, Ms. Liu was not satisfied with this answer, and she said, "What kind of joke is this?"

Alright

Five-star hotels have never been stingy with their consumption of electricity. Under the bright glow of the streetlights, Tang Mi's eyes were slightly red. When Li Zhi walked closer, he could see it clearly, and his heart sank a little.

Li Zhixing grabbed her hand and said, "Wait for me a moment, I will pack my backpack and then go back to school with you."

What do you mean by someone like me

Have you arrived at school

Tang Mi hurriedly stood up and went to close the piano cover: "I'm sorry."

Li Zhixing fell silent for a moment. Tang Mi was almost completely detached from gossip, so when he suddenly brought up this matter, he needed to carefully consider her intentions. During their first year of high school, Tang Mi and Guan Wei had a good relationship, but now they were like strangers.

He paused for a moment before saying, "It feels a bit strange; I have never discussed matters of 'like or dislike' with you before"

Tang Mi averted his gaze

Is this your home

The school dormitory has a strict lights-out policy. During exam weeks, most students feel that "there is never enough time to study when it is needed," and they long for a place to stay up late and cram for their exams. However, the vast majority of students can only go to nearby 24-hour stores or temporarily rent a place. It is truly rare for someone like Li Zhixing, who has a house next to the university.

"Look at my clothes, how can I go back to school now"

"Oh, it's you." Yu Xibai smiled, "I remember now, I saw you once at Kyoto University. What are you doing here?"

Tang Mi had never thought about it before, but now it was completely clear. With two steps, one foot in front and the other behind, the two of them stood outside the door

You resemble your father very much

"Being ill or not wanting to return, there is no difference."

Are you planning to go back

Hmm?

What is her relationship with Li Zhixing

Yes

Li Zhixing said, "I do not wish to hurt her, but I truly do not like her"

Li Zhixing found it both amusing and perplexing; he felt that they had swapped scripts. Clearly, it should have been the boy inquiring about the girl's well-being, yet the roles had been reversed. After all, he was dressed in a three-piece suit, how could he possibly be cold

Li Zhixing casually placed the keys in the basket and said, "If you ever need to stay up late, just let me know"

Li Zhixing walked towards her, knelt down in front of her, took out a mobile phone from her palm, slowly held her hand, looked up at her and said, "Tang Mi, do you understand what I mean?"

The two of them walked and talked, and soon they walked three or four kilometers.

It's quite a coincidence, is your math club also active around here? Li Zhixing's tone was light and cheerful, trying to make the conversation more relaxed.

I will go take a shower and change my clothes, feel free to sit. There are books in the study, and if you want water, please help yourself to the mineral water.

"How can one know without trying?" concluded Ms. Liu.

Ye Yichao, who was troubled by the furious outburst of Tang Mi, turned around upon hearing someone call out, and then saw a familiar face

"Um..." Tang Mi replied hesitantly

She was taken aback: "Were you doing it on purpose at that time?"

Li Zhixing was greatly astonished; fortunately, the darkness of the evening effectively concealed his moment of embarrassment. He never expected that Tang Mi would suddenly ask him whether he was "popular".

After walking for several minutes, she looked up at him and said, "You didn't ask me why I left the hotel."

Of course.

The elevator doors opened, and Li Zhixing was the first to step out, then he turned back once more to look at her, who was a step behind—just like the countless times this action had been repeated over the years