Chapter 3, Cannot Be Together

I am currently in Xuanzhou, I will find a way, do not worry.

"Last semester, what is your relationship with the man, Li Zewen, who ate with you in the cafeteria?"

Other girls also laughed, and various comments were made.

I have turned off my device

Ye Yichao took a deep breath and calmed down. Even if he did not trust Tang, he would still believe in Li Zhixing's abilities

"You know I am not joking," Ye Yichao repeated. "Tang Mi, if you like me, I will be with you"

The complete apple peel gently fell into the trash bin, as Li Zhixing skillfully used a small knife to cut the apple into small pieces and placed them on a plate, inserting small bamboo skewers before handing it to Yu Xibai. Answering this question in front of a girl he likes is not very considerate. Li Zhixing does not like to be too entangled, but he also has no intention of hurting Yu Xibai, as she has already been hurt too much today

What

Tang Mi's breath was rapid; she composed herself and looked up to meet Ye Yichao's gaze

Yu Xibai was wearing shorts, and Tang Mi carefully examined her legs and arms—there were numerous abrasions on her legs, and the skin on her arms was scraped, with several ruptures, but there was no bleeding. Seeing her in pain with tears streaming down, Tang Mi concluded that she most likely had fractures—she dared not move her any further.

She not only absorbs knowledge quickly, but also can swiftly translate various knowledge into practice. Although she has only recently learned, she has taken on a substantial amount of calculation and verification work, with a workload no less than that of Ye Yichao

However, a few days later, she heard new news from her second aunt

Tang Mi said, "Are you taking her back?"

Cui Jia watched the car disappear into the distance and couldn't help but feel emotional: "That must be Li Zhixing, right? I have seen him come to find Yu Xibai at school before."

Tang Mi said, "There are still mathematical papers to be completed"

"Today, Yu Xibai asked me for your phone number, saying it was for a thesis, so I gave it to him," Li Zhixing said

Li Zhixing made a mistake and invited her to sit down on the sofa beside him; Yu Xibai, however, disregarded her opinion and took the initiative to order her some ice water

Ah, said Tang Mi

Tang Mi's expression suddenly changed, and she hurriedly looked down, only to see Yu Xibai forcefully fall in the middle of that field—since the autumn harvest was over, the field was a desolate sight, with only a few bundles of wheat stacked together. Yu Xibai, dressed in a white T-shirt, stood out starkly in the field.

"She must have a fractured calf, and needs emergency assistance," Tang Mi said, "We need a vehicle to take her to the hospital... Can you think of a way?"

Luo Zhiwei looked at her with an incredulous expression, "You figured out the pattern of prime numbers by yourself? How old were you at that time?"

Tang Mi's heart raced to an unbearable degree. Ye Yichao, this person, had always exhibited no unnecessary movements and maintained a proper demeanor. At this moment, he sat upright in front of her, his hands placed on the table, looking at her with such seriousness.

"Alright." Li Zhixing jumped into the passenger seat, "Then I'm off, Tang Mi."

How could I have said such words at that time, causing him to feel hurt

It is absolutely her own show of strength, what does it have to do with you.

That is likely to take quite a bit of time

After this conversation, Tang Mi's impression of Yu Xibai has also changed somewhat. It is understandable, as Yu Xibai is being considered by the elders of the Li family as a potential girlfriend for Li Zhixing, so her overall qualities must be very high.

All those present are the most outstanding students of the Mathematics Department, and they cannot help but imagine what it would be like if she were to study in the Mathematics Department—likely, it would leave them feeling quite defeated

"Did Zhi Xing not tell you? I am studying sociology at Min University. This summer vacation, we are going to conduct a sociological survey around Xuanzhou across the river. Previously, on the bus, you mentioned that you are from the towns surrounding Xuanzhou. I would like to consult you first to gather some information and make a note of it"

Li Zhixing smiled and didn't pursue further. If this topic were discussed by two other people, it would actually be very awkward. But both of them are graceful individuals who successfully concealed the subtle disharmony between the topics.

With urgent matters at hand, Li Zhixing could not possibly delay too long in Tangjia Village. After Yu Xibai returns, there will be a large number of examinations to conduct; if the spine is injured, it would be a serious problem.

Tang Muzhen was shocked to the extreme, staring blankly at Ye Yichao in front of him, even forgetting his words.

Do you want me to cut off contact with Li Zhixing?

Li Zhixing sat in the car and asked Cui Jia and others, "Who wants to go back to the city? Do you want to leave?"

A bitter smile, without the courage to continue speaking--Yu Xibai also fell completely silent, her whole body still too painful.

Tang Mi also wouldn't be too fixated on whether "Li Zhixing is pretending or serious" -- she is a person who can distinguish between priorities, and knows that it is impossible for her to figure out this matter at the current stage. With Li Zhixing's guidance, she has also returned to her normal state.

Li Zhixing said: "Without television, we can only read books."

However, plans are no match for swift changes. No matter how well the contingency plan is made, something unexpected may still happen in the end.

Mr. Li is the cousin of Li Zhixing. He came to school that time to help me.

It's like a story where she knew the ending early on, and now she's just waiting for the conclusion.

She dialed the number, and Li Zhixing answered quickly.

Tang Mi habitually fell silent. She gazed in the direction of Li Zhixing's departure, her emotions so complex that she found it difficult to describe.

Yes.

On the afternoon of May 3rd, the group from the Mathematics Department concluded their rare vacation and returned to school. Tang Mi estimated their return time and planned to meet Ye Yichao. Unexpectedly, Ye Yichao took the initiative and called her directly, inviting her to meet up.

Tang Mi unexpectedly received a call from Yu Xibaiーーon the other end of the line, she said that there was an urgent matter to consult her "opinion" and invited her out for a meal.

What should I say in the end? Should I talk about my helplessness and resignation? Should I talk about my powerlessness and sympathy?

No problem, I am also at fault. I should take a different path.

The sound of footsteps in the distance grew closer, and the village chief arrived with people to provide assistance. A college student who came to our village to conduct a social survey injured their leg. Although it is not a major incident, it cannot be considered insignificant either, so naturally the village chief is concerned.

Li Zhixing really likes you...

From any perspective, Li Zhixing is a very important figure to Tang Mi. She still owes him a lot of favors that she hasn't been able to repay, so how could she refuse his requests?

"Stalker?"

"However, her feelings for you are not the kind you expect." Yu Xibai lowered his head and took small bites of the apple, "Although I have only just met her, I can tell that she is not the kind of person who can be easily swayed."

She never considered what Li Zhixing was feeling at that time; now, in this situation, she finally understands a thing or two

Yu Xibai's pale face revealed a hint of a bitter smile: "Well... I suppose he will look down on me..."

The faces of those present changed dramatically

The two of them continued to discuss the difficult points in the paper, striving to simplify and eliminate them, and everything was as usual.

The night before, it had rained in the village, making the roads quite slippery. Tang Mi reminded them to be careful of their footing all the way. The several villages that Yu Xibai and the others had previously investigated were slightly better off than Tangjia Village in terms of conditions and were almost entirely not located in the mountains. This group had many girls, all of whom had grown up in the city, and judging by their clothing and necessities, it was evident that they came from relatively well-off families and had likely never faced such trials before

This phone call lasted only two or three minutes. After hanging up, Tang Mi noticed that Yu Xibai's ankle was swollen. She furrowed her brow, recalling the first time she met Yu Xibai when she was struggling to walk on crutches in the campus of Beijing University. She remembered that her injury at that time was also on her left foot. In this case, the possibility of this fall affecting her left foot has become a hidden danger.

The field below and this road have a height difference of two meters This fall could result in injuries that vary in severity

Suddenly asked about events from a few years ago, Tang Mi was taken aback. In her impression, Ye Yichao was never one to hold grudges, or rather, the concept of "holding grudges" never took root in his mind. Aside from mathematics, there was never anything that he truly kept in his heart. Yet at this moment, he persistently inquired about old matters.

The ability to still speak indicates that the legs touched the ground first, and the head was not injured

Yu Xiri did not show off in this situation, but obediently handed over her backpack, which contained her camera, notebook, and other items, and was quite heavy

After more than a month of busyness, the work on the mathematics paper has finally been declared paused

Take good rest, I'm going home.

Encountering her in my hometown is not a highly probable event

When speaking, his expression was somewhat serious, revealing a thoughtful appearance.

Hello, said Li Zhixing.

Over the years, many people have been injured in the mountains. The village chief and the experienced villagers know that if someone has a fracture, they cannot move around randomly. Therefore, they organized people to bring a door panel to carry Yu Xibai out.

Yes. I know.

In fact, this matter is quite lengthy to explain. After Tang Mi suddenly left from Cangshan, the boys, curious about the reason, jokingly said, "He must have run away because he was jealous." In the past, the boys had often joked about Tang Mi and Lu Ziyi, and Ye Yichao had never paid much attention. However, this time he thought more deeply about it, until he suddenly recalled Tang Mi's angry remark as she left, "You might as well go find Lu Ziyi," which was filled with resentment, prompting his question.

She struggled to speak: "Because... she really likes you and has been asking me for help."

Yi Xi Bai, I am Tang Mi, where did you fall?

"Are you concerned about my relationship with Yu Xibai?" Li Zhixing suddenly asked.

What to do?

The social investigation journey of Yu Xibai has come to a complete end, but it does not mean that others have also ended their investigations. This is also the conclusion that Yu Xibai and Cui Jia just discussed. Yu Xibai still hopes to do a good job in the social investigation, and besides, she is not lacking in people to take care of her.

Tang Mifu has always been a dwarf in terms of language. While he was still considering his words, Ye Yichao had already spoken up.

......

Yu Xibai was so painful that she didn't want to speak. Tang Mi directly took out her phone from her and tidied up her T-shirt and shorts.

Don't worry, everything is fine. We have already resolved the trouble, and there is no problem now." Tang Mi quickly waved his hand and said, "Ye Yichao, really, trust me."

He repeated: "Do you not want me to have any contact with Lu Ziyi? Do you have this thought?"

Ye Yichao shook his head and said, "I don't know. I asked her at that time, but she didn't say anything. You can ask her."

In front of the road is a crossroads, with the traffic lights flashing. She stopped, the sun shining brightly above her head, and the bustling crowd and traffic on the long street in front of her. She paused to look back thoughtfully at the car, only to see Li Zhixing riding up from behind under the scorching sun and stopping accurately beside her.

Ah!

It's nothing, process of elimination.

These few days, I will trouble you.

Oh, so that's how it is.

I--" Ye Yichao fixedly looked at her, "Tang Mi, did you not tell me about such a big matter because you think I am unreliable? Compared to me, do you prefer to believe in Li Zhixing?"

Where does it hurt?

Tang Mi can swear that this is the first time in her life that she has heard Ye Yichao's sigh.

Not everyone can freely choose their own life. In Tang Mi's helpless life experience, there are too many places where she lacks freedom. She was forced to owe Ding Xiaoxiao a favor and had to repay the debt in this way.

When Tang Mi arrived, Yu Xibai was already in the shop, chatting with Li Zhixing at the opposite table, separated by a small brown wooden table. Li Zhixing seemed to have said something, causing Yu Xibai to involuntarily smile and gaze at Li Zhixing without turning her eyes. It was already summer, and Yu Xibai was wearing a simple and elegant blue dress with flat sandals, looking sweet and generous.

"Yes," said Li Zhixing, "Tell her about your injuries."

There was a long silence on both ends of the phone.

Li Zhixing pedaled once, and after the chain made a light "clink clink" sound, he rode across the pedestrian crossing.

Did you call Li Zhixing?

I cannot refuse her request...

Classmate relationship.

Even Tang Mi was a bit surprised; she went to the village chief's house and truly saw Yu Xibai and his group. Their social investigation team consists of a total of six members: two men and four women, with the team leader being a male named Cui Jia

"Let's go to the restaurant," Ye Yichao said, with his hands in his pockets, "I will treat you."

Tang Mi is also very aware that Ye Yichao has never been the kind of person who considers others in everything; only when facing her does he thoughtfully take her into consideration

The words you spoke that day, I reflected on them carefully after returning home and realized that you were right; I was too reckless. I should not have commented on your family matters so casually. It was my presumption, and I will not act this way in the future

I still remember an incident from our high school competition class. At that time, we collected all the phone numbers of the class and wrote them on the blackboard to look for prime numbers. While I was still pondering, it was Tang Mi who first circled a phone number, claiming it was very likely a prime number. Later, we had a classmate write a program to verify it, and it turned out to be correct. Ye Yichao paused and added, "That was not long after the start of our first year in high school"

Third Year of Junior High School

During the May Day period, there are not many people at the school, and since it is relatively early, the restaurant is quite quiet

"Tang Mi, if I were to ask you not to associate with Li Zhixing, would you agree?" Ye Yichao suddenly asked

What did my mother say, and what is the conclusion?

After the holiday, Tang Mi did not return home immediately. In order to resolve her thesis issues, she spent every day in the Mathematics Department, wholeheartedly focusing on assisting Ye Yichao with the supplementary work for their thesis. A person's potential truly exceeds imagination. Thanks to the high-intensity English training from the Finance Department, her English proficiency is now sufficient to surpass most people in the Mathematics Department. In just over a month, she has tackled five related books and dozens of papers, and has also translated many articles—reading extensively naturally leads to a rapid increase in ability—leaving Cheng Jingdu astonished by her learning capacity.

Tang Mi shook his head and said, "No, I will not be going back during the summer vacation."

The sunlight blazed and dazzled the eyes, and Li Zhixing's silhouette appeared hazy and indistinct in the interplay of light and shadow

"No." Tang Mi said softly

Indeed, the relationship is quite good

She has many things she wants to say to Ye Yichao, such as her "lack of choice," the responsibilities and burdens she carries, her financial pressures, and her inner uncertainties and lack of confidence

To appear cooperative on this topic, Li Zhixing asked, "Did you ask my mom?"

The restaurant selected by Ye Yichao is located right next to the university, and the entire establishment is very elegant, particularly suitable for artistic youth who pursue a refined atmosphere

Ye Yichao calmly continued, "You can refuse. Especially in a situation where I have already told you not to do so"

In the next moment, she heard a scream coming from below

"I..." She composed herself before saying, "If I were thinking this way... what would you do?"

Tang Mi was extremely surprised by this question—"Ah... why do you say that?"

Cheng Jingtian expressed, "No wonder Ye Yichao has always spoken highly of you; your talent and effort have reached their peak. The key is not to be constrained by previous opinions. It would be a great pity for a student like you not to study mathematics"

Having experience with her grandmother's incident, she knows that 120 cannot reach Tangjia Village at all, and even if it could, the efficiency is debatable

Yes, can you do it

Tang Mi composed herself. Yu Xibai had not set a password, and she quickly opened the contact list, and as expected, found Li Zhixing.

Tang Mi fell silent. She heard Li Zhixing's faint breathing coming from the other end of the phone, like a breeze, yet she never hung up the call

A fracture is not an emergency; as long as one does not move around excessively, it should not pose a significant problem if there is a slight delay

Luo Zhiwei was the first to speak: "Even with the current amount of knowledge, accurately identifying prime numbers among eleven digits without a computer is not an easy task, let alone five years ago. How did she manage to do it?"

It turns out she studies sociology, truly one should not judge by appearances

That evening, Li Zhixing called Tang Mi to inform her of Yu Xibai's examination results. The X-ray results indicated that she had a fracture in her left ankle and would require a long period of rest, thus she would be returning to Beijing tomorrow

But what does it matter how beautifully the words are spoken? At this point, discussing anything else is just pretentiousness

What is your relationship with Li Zhixing? Yu Xibai's voice dropped several notches.

"Since I was young, I have never really thought about what love and romance, terms that others often mention, truly mean. I am not sensitive to or concerned about such feelings." Ye Yichao continued, "I like mathematics and think that studying it alone is quite good. However, your appearance has changed my perspective. Sometimes, when others joke about you, I also think that if you liked me, I would be with you."

Compared to you, I feel very foolish

The two met outside the dormitory area. In just two or three days, it is hard to say that there have been any significant changes. However, seeing Ye Yichao's still refreshing appearance, it can be inferred that he has been doing quite well during these two or three days, at least emotionally unaffected by her departure

"I was just terrified... I thought I was going to die..."

Well, alright

Ye Yichao is also a very pure person; in his life, mathematics always comes first. The emotional entanglements between the two probably wouldn't even stir up a decent ripple. He quickly set it aside and began his calculations.

"No, please don't." Yu Xibai, who was walking at the front of the road, said with a smile, "Don't underestimate us!"

A girl named Gao Ying expressed, "Having such a wonderful boyfriend is truly a blessing..."

Yu Xiyi lay on the hospital bed, idly playing with her phone. Her arms and legs were treated for abrasions, her left ankle was wrapped in a bandage, and it was in a cast. She had fallen hard this time, with injuries all over her body

After a moment, he spoke again: "Li Zhixing is to you what Lu Ziyi is to me. Lu Ziyi, as a classmate, is impeccable; she has helped me a lot in daily life, and I cannot possibly avoid associating with her."

Mathematics is such a discipline that effort can only achieve a certain level, and once one surpasses higher mathematics to reach more specific fields, it is entirely a test of talent

The social research team led by Yu Xibai is expected to stay in Tangjia Village for five days. Tang Mi, serving as the tour guide, takes Yu Xibai and others to stroll around the village and visit the elderly residents. Many of the elderly in the village cannot speak Mandarin and have a strong local accent, so she also takes on the role of translator. Tang Mi feels that their work style is quite rigorous, similar to that of a journalist's interview, with several cameras, voice recorders, camcorders, and notebooks, all equipped with various devices.

I understand now. Ye Yichao slightly turned his face, as if listening to some mysterious sound.

Ye Yichao slightly raised his chin to look at her, his gaze fixed on her, with clear pupils reflecting her figure, showing no signs of evasion

The group of students conducting the survey has come to our village today and is staying at the village chief's house. By the way, there is a girl who says she knows you, A-Mo

There were at least ten people in the room, and for a moment, it was completely silent. The others were also curious about how she managed it, so they gathered around to listen.

Tang Mi, there is something I would like to ask you

Li Zhixing sat beside the hospital bed, holding an apple and began to peel it

Tang Mi looked up at Li Zhixing beside him and said, "Sociology? I don't understand it at all. You can also ask Li Zhixing."

I just learned that your relationship is not merely that of classmates; Tang Mi is also the niece of your aunt's ex-husband

I do not know what she told you," Li Zhixing said, "but for me, I am just fulfilling my duty. The Yu family has some connections with my family. Moreover, the key point is that you called me

After spending a few days together, Tang Mi gradually became familiar with them. The few individuals studying sociology were all very outgoing and articulate, making the journey quite lively. Initially, it was thought that this social survey would conclude peacefully, but unexpectedly, an incident occurred.

This inspection seems to be quite a task; Yu Xibai has tanned a bit, but her complexion is still good. Tang Mi greeted her.

Tang Mi thought that he indeed never said he would stay, but he had naturally assumed so

She thought that she must be insane, driven to the point of losing her reason

"Li Zhixing's cousin?" Ye Yichao narrowed his eyes slightly, not too surprised by this answer, "What help did he provide you?"

She may have fractured her calf bone. Tang Mi said quickly, You all go back to the village to call the village chief, I will stay here with her.

Li Zhixing saw her smile and felt relieved, casually pulling over the blanket that was draped over her knees

With the united efforts of the uncles in the village, they passed through Tangjia Village and finally brought Yu Xibai to the side of the road

After a full half hour had passed, Yu Xibai finally concluded the questioning and closed the computer

Well... alright

"No..." Tang Mi spoke with difficulty. "Ye Yichao, the matter of being a stalker will only cause annoyance, and resolving it is not easy. Moreover, I do not wish to trouble you."

There is no such thing.

After a long time without hearing Tang Mi's response, Yu Xibai also realized. The pain throughout her body was dissipating, replaced by a numbness in her brain's nerves

"I will always be here," Li Zhixing said finally, "You can rest assured"

No, we will leave in a couple of days

You have also stated the reason

Tang Mi let out a sigh of relief and handed Yu Xibai's backpack to Li Zhixing

After the confession incident, Tang Mi initially felt somewhat awkward when facing Li Zhixing, as she had no experience in continuing to interact with someone she had rejected. However, Li Zhixing's attitude towards her remained unchanged; when he was not busy with club activities, he continued to study with her, asking her for advice on the problems he encountered in his dual degree, his demeanor completely unaffected and very calm.

Tang Mi is not someone who enjoys unexpected situations frequently arising in life; if possible, she hopes that everything in life proceeds in an orderly manner, following a predetermined path. However, the changes in life never shift according to personal will

Prior to this, Li Zhixing had already made a phone call, stating that he would bring someone over, allowing Yu Xibai to wait at ease for a while

"I did not discard it like a worn-out shoe; I care about it very much, it's just..." Tang Mi held her hand tightly, her voice growing softer.

Should we call 120

Speaking of which, during the summer vacation, if you are available, we would like to invite you to be our tour guide

Yu Xibai also said: "I went to her house, and that house is about to collapse. She lives with her grandmother, who also does not look young anymore... There isn't even a television in the house, it is hard to imagine how she grew up"

I wish to obtain an answer from you

No one understands this better than Li Zhixing

After living in a methodical manner for just a few days, another incident occurred

Tang Mi was simply desperate for it. She had fled back to school at the last moment, which was quite unprincipled. After the initial anger and frustration, especially upon realizing her own foolishness at that time, she was eager to find an opportunity to apologize to Ye Yichao

Keep in touch, contact me if you need anything

After turning on the screen, Tang Mi's gaze fell on the phone screen, but she was taken aback. The screensaver displayed a photo, a portrait of Yu Xibai and Li Zhixing together. The photo was quite interesting; the background featured a massive gray stone wall made of piled stones, with a road under repair running through the middle of the wall, marked by two conspicuous blue signs with white lettering stating "No Entry Without Permission." Li Zhixing and Yu Xibai were leaning against the wall, with Li Zhixing not fully standing upright, leaning back against the wall, his long legs stretched out in front, while Yu Xibai stood straight beside him, perfectly aligned to lean shoulder to shoulder, creating an intimate appearance.

Hmm?

It is fine, she is quite serious

She cares about you

She looked at him in surprise and said, "Aren't you supposed to have dinner with Yu Xibai?"

Ye Yichao looked at everyone and nodded, "So I say, her talent is truly unmatched."

Two individuals rode their bicycles to the Mathematics Department building, as the weather gradually warmed up, continuing their efforts on the thesis

Yu Xibai looked at him. Li Zhixing had recently gotten a buzz cut, his profile clean and refreshing. She remembered that Li Zhixing had also been good-looking as a child, a chubby little boy with big eyes, but he was completely different now. He was the kind of person whose presence became more prominent with age, even overshadowing his appearance.

Tang Mi lightly frowned; she was not a person skilled in words, and it was not easy for her to defend herself. However, Ye Yichao had already turned the page and continued onward

"Do you really... like her a lot? How much do you like her?" Yu Xibai asked again

Tang Mi was taken aback; she had even forgotten about this matter herself, and did not expect Ye Yichao to still remember it. She then vaguely recalled that before this incident, her interactions with Ye Yichao had been completely nonexistent; after this event, he would actively seek her out to talk and discuss topics.

Li Zhixing was very surprised: "Why should I take her back? She has parents. Besides, I just returned to Xuanzhou, and I haven't even had a meal with my dad yet"

It is nothing

Ye Yichao clearly presented his difficult questions without ambiguity, doubt, or further inquiry, simply waiting to hear her answer. Ye Yichao had already extended his hand to her, but she personally pushed his hand away, retreating like a turtle.

Cao Wei said, "I understand the method of elimination, but how can I ultimately determine a specific number?"

What is it not

"Correct does not equal 'suitable.'" Ye Yichao said, "My thoughts do not apply to you. I understand this point."

It was likely due to Tang Mi bearing her weight that Yu Xibai became somewhat unsteady, walking even more shakily than before. Just when Tang Mi thought she could stand firm, Yu Xibai suddenly lost her balance. Behind her, Cui Jia attempted to catch her, but once a person's center of gravity tilts, the force required is simply beyond what one hand can grasp. Tang Mi watched helplessly as Yu Xibai fell off the path.

"During high school, you repeatedly helped Ding Xiaoxiao confess to me, what was the reason for that"

Just as Yu Xibai said, "When feelings do not develop, we remain friends," Li Zhixing also harbors an element of admiration for her in his heart

"I just thought I was going to die... If I die, I will regret it..." Yu Xibai's voice carried a sob, perhaps due to the pain, "This world is truly unfair... I like him so much, yet he does not like me... What you consider worthless is what I have longed for... Throughout my life, I have had everything I wanted, except for him..."

Then she took out her laptop and opened it, saying, "Ready to start!"

"You know," Tang Mi said with difficulty, "he has a slight kinship with me... and he has also helped me a lot, this is impossible"

"When did I ever say I wanted to have dinner with her?" Li Zhixing smiled at her, "It was you who took the opportunity to run away while I went to the restroom, and you were quite quick to escape."

The term "dust has settled" roughly refers to this state

In just a few seconds, Yu Xibai's face turned completely pale. She had not spoken for a while, and after a moment, her eyes were filled with tears. She struggled and trembled, her lips quivering as she said: "I... I have pain in my leg"

Tang Mi handed the phone to Yu Xibai, and she quietly chatted for a few moments with Li Zhixing on the other end of the line, a smile immediately appearing on her face

Is your foot still hurting

Tang Mi held her hand and gently comforted her, saying, "It's alright, it's over, don't be afraid"

He has confessed his feelings to you, hasn't he

She is not at all familiar with Yu Xibai, but for the sake of Li Zhixing, she feels it is necessary to extend this basic hospitality

Yu Xibai lay on Tang Mi's lap, the summer sun so glaring that it shone directly into her eyes. She wanted to turn over, but the pain in her body was unbearable, rendering her unable to move. Tang Mi extended her hand gently to cover Yu Xibai's eyelids, shielding her from the harsh sunlight.

"Are you not clear about your mother's attitude?" Yu Xibai chose to sidestep the issue.

Li Zhixing let out an "ah," seemingly surprised, but quickly regained composure: "So, she is conducting a social survey in your village?"

She recalled Li Zhixing holding her hand, calmly telling her under the warm light, "We will revert to being friends"

"You..." Ye Yichao asked her seriously, "Do you not like seeing me with Lu Ziyi?"

The eyes and half of the face were covered by Tang Mi's palm, making it difficult to discern Yu Xibai's expression. Tang Mi felt that her palm was slightly damp, likely from Yu Xibai's tears

Yu Xibai laughed heartily, her laughter causing her to lean back and forth. The fruit plate containing apples trembled precariously, nearly sliding off her lap.

Hmm

Tang Mi placed her backpack by the roadside and jumped over the muddy bay a few steps away. There was a small path beside her, and she grabbed the bushes by the road, leaping down into the field below. She ran to Yu Xi's side, knelt down, and supported her upper body, resting it on her own knees.

She looked up at the road above, where Cui Jia and the others were almost still stuck in the muddy bay. A few of them were lying by the roadside, anxiously asking, "How is it? How is it?"

Upon seeing Li Zhixing enter the room, she put down her phone and fixed her intense gaze on him, asking, "Did you go to make a call with Tang Mi?"

She thought that Li Zhixing had clearly confessed to her, yet he immediately turned around to take care of another girl. Given the relationship between Li Zhixing and Yu Xibai, it was inevitable that he would not only take her to the hospital but also possibly escort her back to Beijing. Li Zhixing is someone who considers everything thoroughly, and he must be very attentive in taking care of Yu Xibai.

I am very grateful to you today for resolving my significant trouble

Tang Mi's character is resilient, and it is by no means a trivial matter that can be easily shaken.

Is your phone with you

She sincerely revealed her innermost thoughts, yet all she received in return was a soft sigh from Ye Yichao: "So, you still do not believe me"

Ye Yichao shook his head, dismissing her apology with indifference

Indeed, her attitude towards academics is quite proper

Yes, indeed

Tang Mi felt a bit puzzled as she recalled Yu Xibai, but Yu Xibai's social survey was supposed to take place in July, so Tang Mi did not pay much attention to it

ankle

The relaxed smile on Ye Yichao's face had completely vanished, replaced by an expression of extreme concentration, one that Tang Mi rarely witnessed, only appearing when he encountered particularly challenging problems.

Thank you.

The one who was busy with Ye Yichao?

Li Zhixing nodded to her: "Let's go back to school together"

"If you want to know my answer, please answer my question first." Ye Yichao is a person particularly skilled at asking questions; at this moment, he is using questions in place of answers, much like studying mathematics.

After a while, he finally spoke again: "Tang Mi, I have occasionally wondered if you like me. Some girls like me; they hope to be with me, calling me, writing love letters, sending text messages, or directly asking me out to tell me. From your actions, I cannot tell at all. I have thought about it repeatedly, but I have no conclusion."

I am truly very sorry for what happened in high school. Ye Yichao, I recklessly took advantage of your kindness

"Left, left leg." She seemed to be in considerable pain, her voice small and thin.

Although most social issues are economic in nature and there are many similar studies, it is still essential to conduct surveys. Therefore, we would like to go out into the field to gather firsthand data.

Thus, conversing with intelligent individuals is advantageous, as there is no need to exert effort in explanations; the other party can immediately grasp the situation. Tang Mi briefly outlined the circumstances and clarified the matter regarding Yu Xibai's injury

On the third day of the investigation, they learned that there was a large stone on the back mountain of Tangjia Village, which was carved with several local deities, and they couldn't help but feel curious, suggesting that they go and take a look

Li Zhixing hardly interjected from beginning to end, only glancing at her now and asking, "Do you have other plans?"

"Indeed," Tang Mi said, "Yes... Lu Ziyi is very outstanding... I used to think I was the best in mathematics among girls, but it wasn't until I saw her that I realized... I have many shortcomings as well"

Yu Xibai said, "I called you earlier, but I couldn't get through"

Yu Xibai felt a bit anxious; she could not discern what Li Zhixing was truly thinking. She only sensed that he wore a smile and appeared very relaxed.

Tang Mi's thoughts were beyond comprehension; after falling from a two-meter-high mountain path into the field and sustaining such injuries, she still pondered the question of "like or dislike." How could she have reached such a conclusion after only seeing herself a few times

Li Zhixing's actions can be described as swift; within two hours after that phone call, he arrived at Tangjia Village. He had thought things through very carefully, procuring a black SUV and bringing along a doctor. The vehicle was equipped with a first aid kit to attend to the minor abrasions on Yu Xibai's body. With the doctor's assistance, everyone helped Yu Xibai into the back seat of the car

She had only been back for a few days when she heard a fresh topic from the villagers—apparently, a group of university students had recently come to the nearby five townships and eight villages to conduct surveys, visiting the village daily to inquire about various strange and unusual news. Over the years, some university students had also emerged from these rural areas, and the villagers had long since passed the stage of being surprised by the term "university student," so they did not inquire much. Moreover, since the villages were separated, not much news reached Tang Mi's ears.

Perhaps today he is prepared to settle all old accounts, which is why there are many issues. Tang Mi honestly confessed

It is a reasonable perspective, one that stems from a serious approach to scholarship

For a moment, she actually hoped that it was herself who had broken her leg—she wondered what was wrong with her. What was the matter? Could it be that she was jealous of Yu Xibai? Or was she angry with Li Zhixing?

He is currently in Xuanzhou, saying that he is looking for a solution

Tang Mi was taken aback, recalling the night two days ago when Li Zhixing had half-knelt before her, softly pleading with her.

Under Ye Yichao's clear and cold gaze, Tang Mi found it impossible to lie

She truly did not know what was worth discussing, but considering that she had recently hitched a ride with the other party, who also had "urgent matters" to attend to, she had no choice but to come out and meet. Yu Xibai was a student from the neighboring Min University, which was very close to Jing University—thus, the meeting place was a café situated between the two schools.

Tang Mi hesitated for a moment and said, "When I was young, because my school was quite far from home, it took more than an hour to walk. During that time, I tried to analyze and summarize the patterns of prime numbers, and later I indeed found an approximate pattern - I now realize it is the prime number theorem"

In mid-August, Tang Mi returned to her small home in Tangjia Village after a day of bustling about, carrying documents and many unfinished tasks. She had not seen her grandmother for a long time. Unlike the rapid changes in the big city, Tangjia Village had hardly changed, still retaining its original rural appearance. She returned too late; the autumn harvest was nearly complete, and her grandmother's hair had turned significantly gray. Classmate Tang Xiaogang had astonishingly grown half a head taller, now standing as a tall young man

"It is not Yu Xibai, it is I, Tang Mi," said Tang Mi

The road to the back mountain must pass through a famous muddy bay. Whenever it rains, this muddy bay transforms into a nightmarish existence. If one steps into it, they can lift their foot to find three pounds of mud clinging to their shoe. The way to navigate through is by jumping from stone to stone across the muddy dirt path. However, that is not all; the muddy bay is situated within the terraced fields of the mountain road. If one is not careful and steps incorrectly, they may fall into the fields two meters below.

"Last semester, I encountered a stalker, and he and Li Zhixing helped me find the stalker..."

Upon entering the room, I greeted the two individuals

Tang Mi then suggested, "I think we should return first and come back when the weather is a bit better"

Li Zhixing said: "I am not from Xuanzhou and know nothing about the local customs and traditions. Moreover, what she wants to ask is the impact of economic development on rural social customs"

"No, you are still the smartest girl I have ever met." Ye Yichao paused, his tone calm and his demeanor composed, as if nothing had just happened. He even smiled at her, "Let’s go to the office; we still have a paper to write"

Li Zhixing was not surprised. After encountering the mother and daughter during the May Day holiday at Cangshan, it was simply impossible for them not to inquire about who Tang Mi was upon returning. Whether they asked their own mother or their aunt, they were indeed "asking the right person".

"You're welcome, come in." Tang Mi truly felt that it was no big deal

Tang Mi did not understand what significance Yu Xibai found in this question. If she could answer, she would undoubtedly deny it by saying "no," but she was not one to lie easily and could only make an effort to change the subject

Tang Mi looked at her in surprise and asked, "What do you need from me?"

She now understands that when a person is nervous, their heart can truly beat like a drum. She can hear her heart pounding violently, almost ready to leap out of her chest

After hanging up the phone, Li Zhixing stared at the two characters "Tang Mi" on the screen for a few seconds before returning to the single patient room

Tang Mi returned home and turned off her mobile phone. Those who truly wish to contact her can also call the landline.

"No, at that time I was too excited..." She said softly, feeling both guilty and touched, "Ye Yichao, what you said is all correct"

"Ye Yichao... the words you have spoken to me, I will remember for a lifetime..." Tang Mi took a deep breath, straining to suppress the tremor in her voice, "but... Ye Yichao, I, I cannot..."

Yes

Cui Jia no longer hesitated; Tang Mi was a hundred times more familiar with Tangjia Village than they were, so it was best to follow her lead. Tang Mi tightly grasped Yu Xibai's hand, her mind racing as she contemplated the next course of action

Tang Mi's expression was stern: "Then she must be sent to the side of the highway."

Yu Xibai did not know when he had opened his eyes, and was staring intently at Tang Mi

Tang Mi, as the guide, led them to take a look.

Yong Mi has lived in this mountain for twenty years, and with her good athletic ability, she finds it very easy to traverse such paths. However, it is evident that Yu Xibai and the others are not as capable—Tang Mi stands on a rock ahead, looking back at them as they support each other while walking on a muddy mountain path that is less than thirty centimeters wide, struggling greatly.

Although she was uncertain about what rural sociology looked like, she began to answer Yu Xibai's questions in the following time, flowing like a journalist in an interview. Yu Xibai had a cautious attitude towards learning and engaged in deep reflection, preparing a large number of questions, such as the changes in funeral customs and the development of marital relationships. Many of these questions were unheard of by Tang Mi—what she considered to be a matter of course was, in Yu Xibai's view, quite novel.

In the next moment, Ye Yichao's expression changed slightly, his body leaned forward, and his gaze fixed intently on her

Li Zhixing glanced at Yu Xibai in the car and shook his head

Even during the summer vacation, Tang Mi would never slack off in the slightest; after finishing the farm work, she would seize every moment to read.

"It is impossible. How could Li Zhixing be such a person"

Where is the left leg

Then give me your bag

Tang Mi was eager to deny it, but the words that came out were completely different

Then Yu Xibai warmly invited Tang Mi to join them for lunch, but Tang Mi firmly declined. Tang Mi had little interest in dining with unfamiliar people, and after politely refusing, she stood up and left.