Chapter 6, The Most Special Me

"Hehe, this is also the first time I have such a longing for an exam," I said with a smile

You failed to confess your feelings, and yet you blame me? How strange!

Today, I have come to realize that there has always been such a thought in Ai Zhe's mind

Aizhe took the initiative to volunteer, and I initially intended to decline. However, upon reconsideration, I thought, why not? Having one more person means one more mind, and perhaps we could come up with some good ideas.

Ah? What? Protection? ... I just don't want him to drag down my performance anymore, is this ...? ... also considered protection?

What? A figurine! Oh my God! I have always wanted one! Haiye actually said he would buy me an authentic figurine to motivate me; he is simply like a robotic cat sent to me by God!

Forget it, now is not the time to think about those things; let's focus on practicing the song first

Well said! It completely reflects my sentiments. When it comes to confessing one's feelings, one must be prepared for the possibility of rejection.

My mind is very confused, and I do not know how to understand Haiye's words

That being said, I had no idea where the chocolate had fallen that day; it turns out it accidentally dropped here

I bought it online, and there is a Japanese purchasing agent, and it wasn't very expensive either. Haiye smiled and patted my head. This seems to have become his habitual gesture

You, in the past, would always get particularly anxious whenever something happened. If you weren't allowed to relax, you would become so tense that it could make you ill. Ai Zhe reached out and tapped my forehead, smiled, and continued, "If you are too tense, you will develop a fever, and it won't get better in less than three to five days. In the end, it is your hands that suffer. Every time I see your hands turning blue from the IV drip, I feel a deep sense of guilt.

"This is the first time I've heard someone look forward to an exam like this." At that moment, Min'er’s voice reached me, and I turned my head to see her looking at me as if I were an alien.

Oh, by the way, I brought you a little something. " Hainiao reached into his pocket and fumbled around for a moment, quickly pulling out a pendant, " I thought you would like it.

It is not your fault; in fact, it is I who did not consider things thoroughly. You are so popular, yet you are asked to help other boys confess their feelings.

I see, how about I think together with you

This is... ah ah ah! It is 'Shenwei'! I exclaimed excitedly, taking the pendant and caressing it lovingly, "I have always wanted to buy it, but it is so expensive that I have never been able to bring myself to purchase it"

Uh, you... I was just about to say something when I suddenly heard a commotion not far away. Following the sound, I found that Aizhe seemed to be arguing with someone. "Huh? What happened?"

Ah? I withdrew my gaze and looked at Aizhe in confusion. He simply smiled at me and did not say anything further

Research, seminar? This is quite exaggerated. However, how did they know about it

With Aizhe's assistance, I have indeed become much more relaxed. I have entrusted him with writing love letters and also left the task of helping others confess their feelings to him.

At that moment, the phone rang; it was a call from Aizhe. I answered the phone: "Hello, what’s up?"

"No practice today." Yi Yuan You walked over and said to me, "Set aside a day specifically to hold a seminar for your midterm exam."

Min'er glanced at me and said, "With so many strategists at your disposal, you still haven't made a decision, how ridiculous."

Indeed, indeed, my logic has always been quite peculiar said Aizhe, nodding while laughing

"Umino's voice will always be the best in my heart." I gave Umino a thumbs up, and he simply smiled and looked down.

As soon as I finished speaking, Min'er pushed me out. I stumbled a few steps, steadied myself, and then slowly walked towards the door

I pulled Aizhe over and, after scrutinizing him from head to toe, said very seriously: "Aizhe, you should no longer go out and expose yourself; just handle logistics for me, how does that sound?"

It is strange, why do I care so much about Aizhe's emotions

However, Xiaoyan, why does the box of chocolate say to make you and Hainye happy and joyful? Yuyuan's mouth was simply too quick; I didn't have time to stop her before she had already said it.

Still somewhat dazed, I stared blankly at Umiya and nodded.

This abandoned classroom now serves as my Love SOS office during the day and as the base for group practice at night, making dual use of the space and saving costs

I turned back and made a face at that boy, which made him stomp his feet in anger. Then I waved lightly at Hainye and mouthed the words "thank you"; he seemed to understand, nodded, and turned to leave as well

"If you have the ability, go chase after it yourself, don't waste our time." Ai Zhe turned to me, held my hand, and said to that boy, "Both of us are outstanding students in our department, and we have many other things to attend to. Therefore, we don't have time to waste with you." After saying this, he took my hand and walked away

Has Umino noticed it? Aizhe's true nature is well concealed, and it generally only manifests in front of me. Until now, no one has discovered it; every classmate and teacher who knows him describes him as a gentle and amiable person

I am eager to receive the teacher's affirmation immediately, as this will ensure that everyone's efforts are rewarded. This examination is not solely my own; it is also an assessment of the collective成果 of everyone's hard work.

This is bad! The situation has become serious!

Aizhel was momentarily taken aback, seemingly at a loss for words.

Not great, I have no idea what to do. Sigh... I let out a long sigh, gazing at the black night sky. At this moment, not a single star is visible, just like my current mood, devoid of any brightness.

"Oh my! It's Yukino Umi! She looks even better in person!" Min'er exclaimed excitedly, shaking my arm incessantly, "Hurry up, don't keep the handsome guy waiting."

Aizhe, standing next to the piano, smiled at me, and I instantly understood that he must have informed them. This time, it truly is the case that many hands make light work

After this incident, I realized that if I let Aizhe help boys confess their feelings, the failure rate would increase dramatically. Looking at the notebook filled with annotations of "failure," I felt somewhat helpless

However, now when you ask me again, I find myself at a loss for how to respond. Instinctively, I feel a bit resistant to the phrase 'childhood sweethearts,' always sensing that these four characters impose some kind of constraint. Faced with Haiye's question, I momentarily do not know how to answer.

"Xiao Yan, do you feel a bit more comfortable now?" Ai Zhe suddenly asked

Sigh... After thinking for half a day, I still have no clue, and all I can do is let out a sigh

Upon hearing my words, Umiya casually brushed his black hair and said, "I feel that color is too flashy, I wanted to be more low-key, so I dyed it black."

Iyuan You naturally shrugged her shoulders, chewing on chocolate, and pointed to Umiya beside her, saying: "I found this here before, it has your and Umiya's names on it, so I gave the chocolate to Umiya to pass it on to you. Didn't you receive it?"

A few of us sat together and began discussing my midterm exam questions. Everyone spoke in turn, and the conversation was lively and enjoyable

Helplessly, I could only explain the whole situation to them. However, due to my nervousness, I exerted a great deal of effort to clarify the matter. After learning the truth, everyone returned to a state of calm, and the expression on Ai Zhe's face also softened considerably

In fact, he does not need to do this; I will also study diligently, after all, this is something we all work hard on together

This fellow is indeed quite leisurely, having not a trace of pressure at all

"You should keep an eye on your person, don't let him out to harm others!" A boy shouted at me, and I was somewhat baffled by his outburst

I sense that Aizhe, although elegant and gentle in front of others, is merely putting on a facade. Haiye concealed the smile at the corner of his mouth, gazing somewhat melancholically at the setting sun in the distance

As Haiye and I were strolling casually through the academy, he suddenly seemed to remember something and asked me:

"Xiaoyan, how is your preparation for the midterm exam going?" On the other end of the phone, Aizhe seemed to be eating something, and the sound of his chewing could still be heard.

Speaking of which, how is your Love SOS agency doing

Umino smiled and pointed at my phone, saying, "Your phone's wallpaper told me."

A bewildering sense of anxiety, an irregular heartbeat, a rising warmth on my face... all of this leaves me feeling flustered and disoriented, yet I find this sensation... quite pleasant!

I looked at him, speechless. Now, I am completely at a loss for words, my heart filled with mixed emotions

I really hope the exam comes soon... I muttered softly in boredom while leaning on my desk, gazing out the window and becoming somewhat distracted

Aizhe turned around, reached out to touch my hair, and said with a smile, "It's fine, in the future I will wear a mask so that they won't recognize me."

Sitting in the dormitory, I rest my chin on my hand and gaze out the window, my mind searching: what song is most suitable for me? What should I sing?

"Huh? That's not right, I never said I liked it. How did you know?" It's strange, I have never mentioned to him that I like watching 'Gintama', nor have I ever said I liked Kamui from the Yato clan. How did Umi know?

Shall we sing "Memories"? You are quite familiar with that song. " Yi Yuan You took out a piece of chocolate from her pocket, eating it as she spoke, and did not forget to offer me a piece.

I am too lazy to explain anything; as long as he does not go out to show his face, it does not matter what he thinks.

On this night, I leaned against Aizhe's shoulder, gazing at the night sky. For a brief moment, I seemed to see a distant star, shining with a faint light. It seemed to be guiding me towards something.

What does "special" represent? How does Ai Zhe view me? Is it not just childhood sweethearts?

While busy with the Love SOS Agency and balancing the group activities, another significant event has occurred—midterm examinations, which undoubtedly represent the most important matter for me in the near term

Min'er looked at me with a smile, her arms crossed over her chest, and said, "Don't forget, I am the captain of the gossip squad at the music academy. Do you think there is anything that can be kept from me?"

Let's confirm again tonight. My personal opinion is that 'This Lonely Lake' would be better, " said Hai Ye with a smile.

But, Haino, why are you giving me gifts for no reason? I voiced my inner confusion

"By the way, have you chosen the pieces?" Min'er pulled over a chair and sat down in front of me, resting her chin on her hands and looking at me.

Speak of Cao Cao, and Cao Cao arrives. Aizhe came running over, smiling as he asked me: "Xiaoyan, I have arrived. Is there anything you need me to do?"

Compared to those expensive and impractical items, receiving Lord Shenwei's phone charm is truly a fortunate thing. It is strange, though, why did Haiye suddenly give me a gift? ... It is neither my birthday nor any holiday ...

I was completely taken aback, not expecting that Umiya would even spend his spare time thinking about this matter for me. A wave of emotion surged within me. This was the first time, apart from Aizhe, that someone had cared so much about my affairs, and this person was my idol.

However, the anticipated pain did not arrive, and I cautiously opened my eyes

In order to prevent others from knowing oneself, one deliberately uses a completely opposite facade as a disguise. Only in front of those who are trusted will the true self be revealed. Hai Ye spoke in a calm tone; although he was referring to Ai Zhe, it sounded more like he was speaking about himself.

Previously, he had never told me, and I had never noticed. I always took his kindness towards me for granted

Hai Ye grasped the boy's wrist, his eyes radiating an unusual chill: "Let's speak properly; there's no need to resort to violence."

Alright, it's getting late, let's go practice. Today, let's decide on the song, how about that?" Haiye lightly patted my head, simultaneously bringing my thoughts back.

I met Aizhe downstairs at the dormitory. I changed my clothes and ran down the stairs. As soon as I reached the bottom, I saw Aizhe already waiting there, and I was astonished by his speed: "You are so fast!"

Ah? How did you know? It's strange, I haven't told anyone else.

Xiao Yan... suddenly, Ai Zhe raised his head, his eyes filled with joy, leaving me somewhat at a loss. "Are you protecting me?"

Uh. Alright, you win. I raise my hand in surrender

Min'er is my deskmate and is a very lovely girl

Oh my, such matters truly shorten one's life

"Haine, what do you need from me?" This is the first time he has come to see me; is there something special on his mind?

Xiao Yan, you want to protect me because of that boy from before, right? I am so happy, really!" Ai Zhe whispered in my ear

You ... ... '' The boy looked very unconvinced, but for a moment he couldn't find the words, his face turning a deep shade of blue.

In fact, he is a very gentle person, yet he is not easily open-hearted towards others. However, he has been silently protecting me in his own way, which warms my heart

I have indeed become increasingly strange, as I find myself blushing and my heart racing even when facing Aizhe

Oh dear, I almost forgot if she hadn't mentioned it. Although I have practiced a lot these past few days, it is still not finalized yet

I was taken aback and took out my phone to take a look. It turned out that I was using Lord Shenwei's screensaver. It had been so long that I had almost forgotten about it myself

If this continues, we will surely go bankrupt. I supported my heavy head, contemplating what to do, and finally reached a conclusion: it is better not to let him go out and show his face; he should switch to logistics instead.

He himself is timid and unwilling to speak out, yet when we offered our help, he turned around and blamed us. Truly a case of a dog biting Lü Dongbin, unable to recognize a good person's intentions

The lunch break is about to end, and I should return to the classroom. After closing the door, I turned around and saw Umiya walking towards me.

I know, but that is not my fault, there is nothing I can do. " Ai Zhe released his grip on my hand and shrugged helplessly

While I was having a delightful conversation with Min'er, someone suddenly shouted at me: "Xu Zhengyan, someone is looking for you"

Of course, I would never make you wait, Xiaoyan." Ai Zhe smiled, and under the streetlight, his smile was particularly bright, radiating genuine warmth.

"I feel that it is my failure to take good care of you." Ai Zhe's gaze suddenly became incredibly gentle, a faint smile gracing his lips as he looked at me, "As your 'childhood friend', I should take good care of you; I have always believed this to be the case."

"Let's talk while we walk," Hainye naturally took my hand and said as we walked, "I thought about it yesterday and listened to the recording of your practice a few times. I feel that 'This Lonely Lake' would suit you better."

I truly have not made a good choice... I feel somewhat ashamed

I rushed over with Haiye, and before we had a chance to speak, that boy raised his hand as if to hit Aizhe. I hurried over, and the boy's fist swung towards me.

Mask? Why not say to go get a makeover and then come back, haha

It has come again, this feeling has come again

Umino's heart is truly delicate, so delicate that it can be somewhat frightening. However, this delicacy also brings a sense of warmth and comfort.

I glanced at my arm being held and said with some helplessness: "Min'er, if you weren't holding onto me, I would have already spoken to him."

Well, I understand. I also think that song is good, but I am not sure if I can handle it. I still feel a bit worried, yet at the same time, a bit excited. This subtle feeling is something I have never experienced before

"Please speak with a bit more respect." Aizhe stood in front of me and continued, "If the other party does not accept you, it simply means they are not interested in you. As for that girl liking me, it has nothing to do with me and even less to do with you; that is her freedom."

The exam questions set by the teacher are very simple, asking us to choose a song that suits us best. However, the problem is, which song is the most suitable for me? I am completely at a loss.

Receiving affirmation from my idol made me overjoyed, as if I had suddenly stepped onto a cloud.

Thank you, Umi... I really like this gift so much that I couldn't help but take the pendant and rub it against my face

Oh? Why does this chocolate look a bit familiar? Ah, isn't this the chocolate that Jie Rui gave me? How did it end up here with Yi Yuan You?

"Aizhe, this mission has failed," I said, looking up at Aizhe who was walking ahead.

The aura emanating from Umino immediately captivated the attention of all the girls. As long as he stood there and smiled slightly, it was as if he possessed a magical charm

On the evening of the second day, I went to practice as usual. When I stepped into the training room, I felt that the atmosphere was a bit strange

If it were you, I believe it is possible" Hayane said with a firm gaze

Both Ai Zhe and I gazed at the sky simultaneously, and a period of silence allowed me to feel considerably more relaxed. Sitting by the roadside, we began to idly count the passersby, tallying each person as they walked by, until we lost track of how many we had counted, only to realize that a significant amount of time had passed. We sat there, still unable to come up with any solutions.

"Yan, are you ready to leave?" Haiye approached me and asked with a smile

Umino turned his head to look at me, a smile spreading across his lips, and the warm aura surrounding him made one feel very comfortable

My view on Aizhe? If it were in the past, I would undoubtedly express it with the four characters "childhood sweethearts." This is the best explanation and definition of the relationship between Aizhe and me

Ah? What? The girl he likes said she likes Aizhe? ... Isn't this just ...

"Let us go and take a look." Haiye said this

Usually, if it is not someone you particularly like, you would not use their image as a screensaver, Haiye said confidently

Is he really that low-key? How is that possible? He is so handsome, has such a good temperament, and possesses a great voice. A person like that, no matter how low-key they are, will always be noticed by others

"How despicable!" The boy angrily withdrew his fist, pointing at my nose as he scolded, "You actually let this guy help me confess! The girl I like said she likes him! Are you doing this on purpose?"

Self-blame? I am ill, why should he feel guilty?

Then... that... I glanced at Haiye several times, hoping he could help me out of this predicament. To my surprise, he looked at me with an expression that seemed to say, "I want to know too," and coupled with Yiyuan You's questioning gaze, I couldn't help but break out in a cold sweat

Otherwise, what could it be? Is there anything left between him and me? ... What is this strange feeling in my heart all about ...

"Aizhe is really quite good to you," Haiye said casually, but then his expression became serious. He looked at me and said, "Yan, what is your opinion of Aizhe?"

You... I lightly tapped Aizhe's head and said, "What kind of logic is this? Who stipulated that childhood sweethearts must protect me?"

How can I describe this feeling? It is simply exhilarating

"Yoyo, where did you get this chocolate?" I asked her in confusion. "It was given to me by someone else."

"As motivation for you to perform well in your exams, if you achieve good results, I will buy you an authentic figurine of him." Haiye pointed at the pendant in my hand, smiling charmingly, with her crescent-shaped eyes filled with allure

Without saying a word, Ai Zhe embraced me tightly, leaving me at a loss, unsure whether to push him away or to let him hold me. My mind was in a chaotic state, unable to sort through any thoughts

So... Umino withdrew his gaze and turned to me, looking at me with a slight smile and saying, "He should only show you his truest self, because in his eyes, you are special..."

Rest assured, I will definitely give it my all! I promise with a pat on my chest, secretly vowing: if I do not succeed, I will sacrifice myself. For the sake of Lord Shenwei's figurine, I will fight to the end

Wait! It seems that there is still something written on the chocolate...

Umino's words struck deep into my heart in an instant, that one phrase "You are special..." left my heart inexplicably flustered

While discussing the examination repertoire with everyone, I couldn't help but glance at Aizhe a few times, and only when I saw that he showed no signs of anything unusual did I truly feel at ease

I turned my gaze towards the sound and was surprised to see Umiya standing at the door, smiling and waving at me

Aizhe wouldn't have called me out just to help me relax, would he

In recent days, with everyone's encouragement and Haiye's guidance, I have gradually entered a state of readiness. Initially, I would feel very anxious upon hearing the words "midterm exam," but now, upon hearing those four words, I inexplicably feel excited.

A fist, accompanied by a gust of wind, was about to strike my face. It's over! It's going to hit me! I nervously closed my eyes

How is it? I asked with some concern

Therefore, Xiaoyan, I do not allow you to be too anxious, nor do I permit you to fall ill. This time, Aizhe spoke in a very serious and earnest tone

What worries me the most is the gloomy face of Aizhe beside me. I have discerned a pattern: whenever Aizhe displays this seemingly calm expression, it indicates that a fierce anger is burning within him

"Indeed. Aizhe has gone to work, and I should be heading back soon as well," I said to Haiye as we walked together, noticing that his black hair seemed to have grown longer. Suddenly recalling his silver hair from before, I couldn't help but ask, "Haiye, why did you dye your silver hair black?"

That's great! My Lord Shenwei's phone charm is truly adorable. I never expected Umiya would give me this; I am incredibly excited and deeply touched

Everything is managed by Aizhe, and business has been average lately. Speaking of this, I feel somewhat helpless. Due to my relationship with Aizhe, there are many commissions that I am unable to accept. More importantly, I have been busy with exam matters recently and have no time to attend to those.