Chapter 4, Commitment

"He already has a girlfriend, so you might as well give up on that idea." In return, Su Cuo smiled even more happily than they did. Sure enough, she immediately heard the expected tragic cries. Satisfied, she walked to the table and opened her computer

"Senior sister, you are too polite," Su Cuo said with a faint smile. Just as she was assessing this future sister-in-law, this future sister-in-law was certainly also discreetly evaluating her.

As soon as the class ended the next morning, she hurriedly made her way to West University. It was mealtime, and every road was crowded with people, so Su Cuo had no choice but to lock her bicycle by the roadside and walk to the boys' dormitory building where Su Zhi was. She arrived a bit early, but she had already seen Chen Zijia standing downstairs with the tickets.

Seeing Su Cuo standing in the back in a daze, Chen Zijia beckoned her to come in, while smiling; that smile was as warm as the sun in winter

In order to liven up the atmosphere, Su Cuo looked at Su Zhi and said with ill intentions: "Su Zhi, honestly confess, with such a beautiful senior sister, how did you manage to win her over?"

She let out a sigh and nodded solemnly

I am truly grateful. Su Cuo was moved to tears.

Indeed. Su Cuo bent over with laughter, "Otherwise, would I have rushed to bring it to you today? Tomorrow is Valentine's Day. It's just perfect for a pair."

This office is quite large, equipped with six computers, allowing for one computer per person including Su Cuo. Su Cuo chose a computer in the corner, opened the disc drive, and inserted the CD she had brought. She then sat down and began to write code with an expression akin to a monk in meditation. To be fair, the requirements for this software are much easier compared to those in Bai Jilin's laboratory, and there are no significant difficulties, just a lot of repetitive work. Su Cuo typed at an incredibly fast pace, with lines of code seemingly eager to leap from her fingertips, leaving the boys around her in awe. To be fair, the requirements for this software are much easier compared to those in Bai Jilin's laboratory, and there are no significant difficulties, just a lot of repetitive work. Su Cuo typed at an incredibly fast pace, with lines of code seemingly eager to leap from her fingertips, leaving the boys around her in awe. For a moment, the entire room was filled only with the crisp sound of keystrokes, as if telling a story or singing a song.

Yingchen sighed and shook his head, "Only you are willing to indulge her"

It is late, and the road is not safe

The box is styled in a plain and unremarkable square shape, but under the moonlight, the necklace inside is stunning. The delicate and thin silver-white chain is adorned with exquisitely intricate patterns, and a diamond-shaped purple crystal hangs below, both shimmering brilliantly

Su Cuo spoke nonchalantly: "Senior brother, this is your matter, no need to explain it to me specifically"

Su Zhi cried out in pain, saying: "Su Cuo, haven't you caused enough trouble? Let's stop the cold war, can I just admit defeat? I'm really busy right now and don't want to argue with you."

Su Cuo replied: "I have a lot on my plate, I'm about to be exhausted. Let's talk about it after they reach the semifinals"

This conversation clearly showed a trend of worsening, and Su Zhi attempted to salvage it: "I don't distrust you; I just think you could ask the teacher for a leave or something."

I didn't expect that either" Su Cuo smiled

Due to her efforts during the winter break, Su Cuo's work in the laboratory is nearing completion, and she has the first weekend of the new semester as a holiday. Suddenly finding herself with free time, Su Cuo feels somewhat unaccustomed. She recalls her old habit of happily taking her computer to the library to read and, at the same time, write an article for the philosophy research group, which meets monthly. The library on the weekend is calm and peaceful, with more than half of the reading room occupied. Everyone is quietly and attentively reading, with only the sound of turning pages. Su Cuo places Hegel's "Lectures on Philosophy" in front of her, reading while recording notes on her computer, completely unaware of how time flies. Before she knows it, most of the day has passed.

"On the last day of the last semester, you promised me." Chen Zijia looked at her quietly, his tone so decisive and firm that it brooked no refusal

Su Cuo took out a small square box from her backpack and handed it over, explaining: "I can't guarantee that you will like it, but I believe my sister-in-law will definitely like it."

In the afternoon, there was an experiment for university physics, measuring the Young's modulus of a rigid body. Su Cuo was still the first to leave and arrived at the Science Center. In the nanotechnology laboratory, only Liu Fei was present, as two senior students and Professor Bai had attended a conference in the field of materials science.

With Mi Shi's talent and beauty, the number of boys from two universities who liked her was as numerous as the fish in the river. It is said that the love letters she received could only be counted by the dozens. She politely told each boy who liked her, "I'm sorry, I like someone else." Gradually, everyone came to know that the person she liked was Chen Zi Jia. Su Cuo heard Su Zhi say that most boys did not have time for breakfast in the morning, and at one point, Mi Shi even delivered breakfast to their dormitories or classrooms every day, regardless of the weather.

Su Cuo walked into the ticket gate, then turned back and waved to Chen Zijia outside the ticket gate

As Christmas approaches, this semester is also nearing its end. The final exams are drawing closer day by day. Although Su Cuo is not very concerned, she still learns about the final results of the talent competition through various channels. The top three places in the girls' group are all taken by Xida, while Huada's best ranking is fourth place, achieved by Lin Zheng. The champion is Mi Shi, who has a fleeting acquaintance with Su Cuo, and this result is entirely within expectations.

Yang Xue said: "Oh, and the president of your association is also on the field, the main player from our school's law school. By the way, this weekend is the match between them and your brother's college. It is worth looking forward to." Speaking of which, she already had a face full of drool.

Su Cuo had even thought of the beginning of the movie. In the dark night, a door was blown open by the wind and slammed shut

Su Cuo pouted, and Ying Chen smiled at Su Cuo, saying, "Let’s not pay attention to him." Then, she immediately began to chat casually with Su Cuo, mostly about how Su Zhi was doing.

Her voice was very loud and sharp, completely different from her usual gentle tone, drawing the attention of guests at nearby tables. For a moment, everyone exchanged glances, feeling quite awkward, and the atmosphere, which had been relatively cheerful, suddenly fell into a state of low pressure

I am listening, Liu Fei said while recording the data

Then Mi Shi became enthusiastic towards her

Su Cuo stood in front of him, her features clear and bright, "Go in."

Due to the Spring Festival, the airport is extremely crowded, and the ticket check area is severely congested; however, witnessing this scene, the passengers in line behind rarely urged to move forward

Of course, everyone includes Su Zhi and Ying Chen, who are conversing with each other, exchanging words about the people and events around them. Ying Chen cuts the pizza into perfectly neat small pieces and places them onto Su Zhi's plate. Su Zhi looks at her with a smile, his gaze so gentle, a look that Su Cuo has never seen before.

Every year at the beginning of the spring semester, Su Chuo becomes aware that Su Zhi's birthday is approaching. Due to the importance placed by their parents, Su Zhi has celebrated her birthday in a grand manner since childhood, with many relatives and friends attending, bringing a large number of gifts that cannot fit on a single table. Su Zhi often invites her to help unwrap the presents, continuing until their hands go numb and there are still gifts left to open

I was preparing to treat you to a meal tomorrow, but never mind for now. I remember your birthday is coming soon, so I specifically brought a gift to your door.

I am truly glad that you did not change your major and are still stationed here with me. Su Cuo responded off-topic.

Ying Chen felt extremely embarrassed, and Su Zhi reached out to pat her shoulder, looking displeased and about to speak, but was interrupted by a glance from Chen Zijia. Just then, the waiter brought out the ice cream. After a moment of silence, Chen Zijia, with great experience, patted Mi Shi's hand and said, "Alright, have some ice cream to cool down."

I do not know. There is no plan, just take it one step at a time. Su Cuo smiled indifferently, "Blocked at the door by English, there is no need to think about anything else."

"Is that all you brought?" Chen Zijia said with mild surprise. He had originally opened the trunk of the car and was waiting, but upon seeing it, he closed it again and said, "Just put it in the cabin."

Su Cuo asked her: "Senior sister, have you ever told anyone what I am doing in Professor Bai's laboratory?"

"What did you just say?" Su Zhi admired the necklace for a moment, then looked up at Su Cuo, and, realizing it belatedly, asked in return, "Sister-in-law?"

The two individuals simultaneously hung up the phone in anger, falling into yet another vicious cycle of cold war

In such an atmosphere, no one attempted to keep her. Yicheng held Su Cuo's hand and smiled, saying: "Moreover, regarding the English tutoring, as long as you are willing, you can come to me anytime."

Su Cuo has not forgotten. However, this price seems rather steep

"If I owe, then I owe; at worst, I can follow the example of Bai Niangzi and offer my body in return." Deng Ge said in a half-cold, half-cool tone

The booking for winter vacation train tickets has now begun. Su Cuo cautiously asked, "Are you planning to take the train or the plane?"

Glancing out the window, Chen Zijia shook his head, "Su Zhi said you hardly ever leave the school, and I finally believe it now"

What is it? Su Zhi said, his tone flat, without any impatience

The number of students in the class also changes simultaneously. At the beginning of the new semester, during the first lesson, the teacher habitually calls the roll. Whenever a name is called and the student is absent, the classmates always respond with a gloomy, "Transferred to another department." The teachers are not surprised; they nod, take out a red pen, and cross out the student's name. That feeling is very strange, as if the teachers, with a stroke of their pen, have erased that person, as if they had never existed, as if they had never lived in this world.

"That's how it is," Chen Zijia paused and said, "I will bring it to you tomorrow"

Su Cuo suddenly understood that this meeting must have been arranged in advance. Su Zhi and Chen Zijia were in the same dormitory and had such a good relationship; it was quite normal for them to choose to eat in the same place. Chen Zijia looked no different from before the holiday, his complexion still as good as ever; after all, it was just a winter break.

You need not be so surprised. Yang Xue scoffed, "My words are something I can hardly ask for."

At this moment, Mi Shi's complexion was slightly clearer, but she still pouted.

Su Cuo exaggeratedly clutched her chest, "I also want to ask someone about this question"

Several people are already gathered around a computer in the office, discussing issues in the program with serious expressions. When Chen Zijia brought Su Cuo into the room, they turned their heads, sizing up Su Cuo with surprise, "Chen Zijia, isn't this Su Zhi's sister? Is she the assistant you found?"

Su nodded and said, "Let's also invite Linlin and Deng Ge. He has always enjoyed lively gatherings since he was young; the more people, the better."

Not only is her name pleasant, but she is also a good person. While her appearance may not be the most beautiful, her temperament is exceptionally outstanding. Her features are clear and elegant, and when she smiles, she has a mischievousness reminiscent of a little girl. Initially, Su Cuo was somewhat surprised; this was completely different from the delicate and charming girls that Gong Chen and Su Zhi had previously liked, almost worlds apart. She stood outside the restaurant for a while before walking in

"I see that you are truly polite; you are Su Cuo's sister, and also my sister." Ying Chen possesses a unique charm; whenever she speaks about something, it is always imbued with sincerity and warmth. Her neck is long and fair, adorned with the necklace that Su Cuo gifted her yesterday. As she speaks, the chain gently sways, sparkling and shimmering with brilliance.

Su Cuo felt a tremor in his heart from his smile, and with a lift of his lips, he also began to laugh, simultaneously realizing, "It must be Su Zhi who called you. He was so angry when leaving school that his nose was even crooked."

Chen Zijia smiled slightly, "It is her." His voice and demeanor were very persuasive, and the group of boys who had originally harbored doubts immediately parted to make way.

As the two individuals exited the building of the School of Management, the streetlights outside silently illuminated the surroundings, their brightness dazzling to the eyes. Numerous students continued to come and go between the dormitories and the classrooms, occasionally raising their voices to exchange a few words, their sounds slicing through the night sky. Although the campus was far less lively than during the day, it was by no means desolate, presenting a stark contrast to the atmosphere inside the building.

How long will it take?" Chen Zijia paused for a moment and then asked

"It will be better to finish it early, so everyone can feel at ease." Su Cuo set the cup aside

Unexpectedly, when she turned around, she saw a pair that was even more eye-catching. Chen Zijia and Mi Shi were walking over from another corner of the store, not holding hands, but simply walking side by side

Nevertheless, Mi Shi still felt uneasy like Su Cuo. Every time she came to Xi University to help Chen Zijia with programming, Mi Shi was always present without fail. At this point, Su Cuo was truly at a loss for words. Chen Zijia showed no particular attitude towards her arrival. However, it was evident that he cared for Mi Shi; whenever her water cup was empty, Chen Zijia would immediately refill it for her. Whenever she encountered any issues in her studies, Chen Zijia would patiently and thoroughly explain, making the concepts easy to understand.

"Hmm, let me think," Su Cuo furrowed his brows and pondered for a moment, then said, "You handle the front-end design, and I will take care of the back-end coding. By dividing the work, our efficiency should be higher. What do you think?"

Su Zhi laughed and said, "Alright, then invite me to dinner more often"

"It's nothing, just a minor issue with the program," Su Cuo hurriedly replied. She was very fond of Mi Shi and could not let her misunderstand. Then she recalled the sudden emotional outburst from that day, which made her even more cautious. Thus, she immediately retreated

Putting down the phone, Su Cuo glared fiercely at the jubilant Yang Xue and Lu Linlin, "You have truly put me in a difficult position. Now I owe him another favor."

Su Cuo weakly lowered his head, "Who was there at that time?"

This is merely the cause; on the day of the exam, Su Cuo had another fierce argument with Su Zhi. As usual, it was about when to return home. Su Cuo said she couldn't go back, but in the end, it made no difference; the siblings took different paths but ended up at the same destination.

After the holiday, the dormitory building was completely emptied. The dormitory supervisor informed Su Cuo that she was the last girl to leave. For several days, Su Cuo had been coming and going alone, but now, she saw a black sedan parked at the entrance of the dormitory. Su Cuo looked at the car, which was not luxurious but definitely impressive, with some confusion, and then noticed the car door opening as Chen Zijia stepped out.

"Are you saying that Su Zhi has a girlfriend?" Su Cuo was dumbfounded

Chen Zijia brought Su Cuo to the computer and said, "We have made a start, but there are still some issues."

You should go home today. I will take you to the airport

Su Cuo reached into his pocket and replied succinctly: "Alright"

"Four tickets, will you come?" Chen Zijia said with a smile as he looked at her

Chen Zijia laughed out loud. The two of them sat side by side in the back seat of the car, and Su Cuo felt extremely embarrassed by his laughter. Chen Zijia said, "I think English is the easiest thing to learn in the world. If you can master such difficult subjects as mathematics and physics, why can't you learn English?"

The school after the holiday possesses a unique beauty, especially after a snowfall. Upon stepping out in the morning, one will find the entire school blanketed in thick snow, more than an inch deep, so bright, clean, and soft, transforming the whole area into the most peaceful place in the world. There are very few people around; occasionally, a passerby bundled up tightly walks by, their shoes crunching on the snow, producing a series of crisp "crunching" sounds, leaving clear footprints behind

Su Cuo merely smiled, and after a while, she spoke: "Yes, I promise you." The smile at the corners of her mouth had not faded at all while she was speaking

This sports event included a basketball competition between two schools, much like the rowing races between Oxford and Cambridge. After the sports event, both West University and Hua University organized a so-called basketball league, which was a contest between the colleges of the two schools. Su Cuo did not experience the specific excitement, as the number of courses was increasing and laboratory matters were coming one after another, leaving no time to be distracted. However, every day, hearing the enthusiastic commentary from several beautiful girls in the dormitory, Su Cuo could sense that the atmosphere on the court was absolutely vibrant. Su Cuo did not experience the specific excitement, as the number of courses was increasing and laboratory matters were coming one after another, leaving no time to be distracted. However, every day, hearing the enthusiastic commentary from several beautiful girls in the dormitory, Su Cuo could sense that the atmosphere on the court was absolutely vibrant.

Chen Zijia looked into her eyes as if trying to see into her heart, his tone very calm: "Su Cuo, I know you have a lot on your plate and are very busy, but I still insist on asking you to help us with the program. Ultimately, it is my selfish desire. I usually cannot find you, and it is even difficult for me to see you. Perhaps asking you for this favor puts you in a difficult position?"

How do you know?" Su Zhi pouted.

Bending down to fiddle with the mouse, Su Cuo turned around and asked, "Who wrote this code?"

Chen Zijia was also somewhat surprised, quietly watching her. The light from the computer screen illuminated her features, causing them to shimmer and flicker, yet they remained distinctly clear.

Yang Xue criticized her: "Your brother and Chen Zijia both participated in the competition, yet you didn't go to watch. How inconsiderate of you!"

Initially, Su Cuo thought that the biggest characteristic of this pizza shop was its high prices. However, within two minutes, she quickly realized that she had made a serious mistake. The true hallmark of the pizzas here was their terrible taste. The pizzas she had eaten before were already quite unpalatable, but the level of inedibility at this place reached an unprecedented peak. Su Cuo could hardly comprehend how it had gained its reputation. Yet, every seat in the shop was filled, and everyone seemed to be enjoying their meals. She made an effort to study their cheerful expressions in order to make her own face appear less pained.

Mi Shi responded with a soft "Hmm" as an answer, then asked, "Su Cuo, how come you are at our school?" It was evident that she was trying to calm herself, but she clearly lacked a bit of composure.

Chen Zijia's eyes flickered, hesitating to speak.

Su Zhi was momentarily at a loss for words. The two stood quietly under the tree. Looking around or further into the campus, everywhere there were couples, seemingly unbothered by the cold, either strolling hand in hand under the chilly moonlight or sitting on benches in the garden, whispering sweet nothings to each other, the air thick with the scent of love. Indeed, Valentine's Day was approaching, and this atmosphere was unmistakable.

Chen Zijia smiled and said, "What were you just doing?"

"Well," Su Cuo said, "I just wanted to let you know that I will be leaving a few days later this year. You can go back first. Whether you buy a plane ticket or a train ticket, you don't need to worry about me."

Even if I wanted to change my major, I wouldn't have the money. Yang Xue smiled and said, "So thinking about it, there are no regrets."

Chen Zijia stood at the entrance of the School of Management waiting for her. Although it was only late April, the weather had been unusually hot recently. He was wearing a fitted white shirt and dark trousers, and under the glow of the setting sun, he appeared even taller. His shadow stretched long, reaching all the way to Su Cuo's feet. Su Cuo glanced at him, then at the shadow on the ground, and couldn't help but feel playful, stepping and hopping as she jumped over his shadow.

In order to prevent Yang Xue's anger from escalating indefinitely, Su Cuo had no choice but to obediently comply, and he also requested a ticket for himself. On the other end of the phone, Su Zhi spoke in a sarcastic tone, "Oh, oh, you forget about your brother until you need something," and then softened his tone, "However, there are only so many seats in the front row. But you can ask Chen Zijia; he should have some available. I'll call him over to take the phone."

When speaking, Mi Shi's expression was calm, stubborn, and had a hint of recklessness. At the beginning of her words, there was a tone of request, but when she mentioned the name "Chen Zijia," only determination remained.

At least the gender ratio in the class has improved, Yang Xue said with a wry smile, "Isn't it?"

I—" Su Cuo did not know how he found out about this matter, she said in a daze, "like this—"

"Yingchen, could you spare some time to teach Su Cuo?" Su Zhi put down his drink and interjected, "My sister is just hopeless with foreign languages."

"It's nothing, I am much wealthier than you," Su Cuo waved his hand, "The combined amount of the special scholarship and the grants from the laboratory is quite substantial. Teacher Bai is truly commendable when it comes to students."

Su Cuo took out his phone to check the date and said, as if awakening from a dream: "That's right, next week is Su Zhi's birthday. I plan to invite him to dinner tomorrow. You all should come along."

Su Cuohai smiled and said, "No need."

Su Cuo sat in front of the computer, looking at the relevant materials that Chen Zijia had just sent her, feeling somewhat restless. After a long while, she finally spoke up: "Senior sister, I want to ask you something."

Su Cuo looked at the changing scenery outside the car window and asked Chen Zijia, "What place is this?"

As soon as Chen Zijia answered the phone, he smiled, his tone laced with teasing: "It's rare for you to take the initiative to ask for something"

Yang Xue continued to be annoyed, "Get us the tickets!"

Su Cuo Min swiftly swallowed the words "Then why are you forcing me to do this?" and replaced them with another phrase, "In any case, it's better to be quick."

Su Cuo attempted to reason: "I really have to return late, there are still many things to attend to in the laboratory. I cannot just leave as soon as the holiday begins"

Mi Shi did not accompany Chen Zijia to the stadium, and Su Cuo knew that she must have something to say to her. However, no matter how imaginative she was, she could not have anticipated that Mi Shi's first words would be so direct and piercing.

Su Cuo noticed the astonished gazes of the crowd and politely nodded his head

The seats for these three are located further back. This one is reserved for you by Su Zhi, and it is positioned more towards the front," Chen Zijia explained

Su Cuo sighed at the sky: "My only requirement for English is that it is usable. I do not wish to understand it"

"If you laugh any harder, you'll hurt your back," Su Zhi shook his head, "I was planning to tell you after our relationship was completely established in a while, yet you already knew. I thought you were solely focused on studying the classics, but it turns out you also pay attention to the world outside."

If it were not for the vibration of the phone, Su Cuo would certainly not have realized the passage of time, as the day had already reached evening. She opened the phone cover and walked into the corridor to answer the call

Yang Xue's joy was evident, "Is it your brother's birthday?"

I apologize for keeping you waiting for so long. " Su took off her scarf and coat, greeting Su Yingchen.

"If it continues like today, it will probably take about a week or two," Su Cuo thought for a moment and said, "If you want to speed things up, I can make time for it." "Not in a hurry at all," Chen Zijia just smiled, "It seems I haven't rushed you, have I?"

Su Cuo sat in the fourth-floor laboratory, leaning over the window to overlook the entire campus. The laboratory was empty, and when the wind rose, her long hair danced in the breeze

Chen Zijia rested his hand on his thigh, tapping his knee rhythmically. His expression turned serious as he glanced at her and pondered, "Poor English will result in many lost opportunities. Do you have any plans to go abroad or anything else?"

Suddenly taking a step forward, Chen Zijia approached her, slightly lowering his head, his breath just inches away. He remained silent for a long time, and after a while, he spoke in a voice that only Su Cuo could hear: "Then I will wait for your return. You cannot go back on your word. Happy Spring Festival"

Su Cuo came out of the dormitory ten minutes later. She had a bag slung over her shoulder, containing her most treasured laptop; in her hand, she carried a small travel bag that looked rather empty.

What kind of late is this? I return to the study room at this time every day," Su Cuo waved his hand, "The road from here to the dormitory is a main road, and there are always more people rather than fewer. It only takes a few minutes to get there. Senior, do you really not know this?"

"Then you promise me," Mi Shi said, her eyes sparkling, her tone filled with anticipation

Su Zhi greeted, "You have arrived, please take a seat"

Su Cuo was aware of the situation. She grabbed her coat, putting it on as she stood up, "I am going back to school"

Su Cuo said with a snap: "I just gave you a gift, and you started mocking me already"

During the weekend, Chen Zijia went to the team training, leaving only Mi Shi and Su Cuo in the office. Mi Shi finally laid her cards on the table: "Su Cuo, promise me, do not compete with me for Chen Zijia."

Language is not difficult to learn at all. In fact, at first, I was also reluctant to learn foreign languages, " Yingchen said with a smile, " it was all because of my grandfather and father pushing me into it. When I first arrived abroad as a child, I understood nothing, so I had no choice but to force myself to make new friends and learn how to speak like them. However, strangely enough, as I kept learning, I actually came to like it.

"What are you joking about?" Su Cuo slightly raised the corner of her mouth, "Mi Shi, we have no relationship at all; it is purely because he is a classmate of my brother. You must not overthink it."

They are not as busy as I am, probably leaving as soon as the holiday begins

Mi Shi held onto Chen Zi Jia's arm, sat down on the sofa, and, with the menu in hand, expressed her desire to eat this and that. Chen Zi Jia's expression was gentle, and he readily agreed to everything.

The lake was frozen, and a man and a woman were happily ice skating. The girl kept falling down, and the boy would laugh and help her up; then she would fall again, and the boy simply sat down on the ice. The two of them were very happy, and even from a distance, Su Cuo could faintly hear their laughter.

I will escort you back to the dormitory. Chen Zijia pushed the bicycle over

What about the senior students in your laboratory? When do they have a holiday

If I had known, I wouldn't have studied it well. Su Cuo slowly walked back to the dormitory, and then thought: If I don't study, perhaps I won't even be able to get a 61. It is evident that I am truly unfortunate

It was only when the classmates began to fervently discuss the matter of booking train tickets that Su Cuo remembered that he had to find Su Zhi to have a conversation about going home.

Yingchen was aware of Mishi's temperament and knew that he had misspoken, feeling regretful. He cautiously opened his mouth to remedy the situation: "Mishi, don't be angry, I was just speaking offhandedly..."

"Why are you so late?" Su Zhi called out helplessly, "Acuo, can you really manage in such a national-level laboratory? You are just a freshman, and those graduate students know much more than you do. Can the laboratory really not function without you?"

Mi Shi glared at Chen Zijia with a frosty expression, biting her teeth, and impatiently waved her hand, "I am not talking to you"

Chen Zijia raised his wrist to check the time, "The flight is in two hours, you should go back to the dormitory and pack up. I will wait for you here"

After dinner, Su Cuo rode his bicycle to West University and found Su Zhi downstairs at the School of Management. He appeared to be in high spirits, but Su Cuo noticed the hidden fatigue in his eyes. It was no wonder. With the new semester starting, there were already many responsibilities for the student council, and on top of that, he was pursuing a double degree in mathematics. The weight of several mountains pressing down was indeed exhausting both physically and mentally

Su Zhi pressed the box against his palm and pondered, asking: "How much did it cost?"

However, for Su Cuo and Yang Xue, the fact that a male student transferred out of the program at least has one advantage

Su Cuo was overjoyed, "No need, no need. I can come to find you. Is noon okay?"

After that competition, the siblings would argue over any topic they discussed, and eventually, they stopped contacting each other altogether. Even when they encountered each other online, they still did not say a word, completely ignoring each other as if the other were air.

A promise is worth a thousand gold pieces

Mi Shi raised her two arched eyebrows in confusion, looking at her.

Su Cuo approached, and Chen Zijia saw her bathed in the glow of the sunset, yet the brilliance in her eyes was even more dazzling than the sunset itself, remaining unmasked by that radiance. He quickly turned his head away, then turned back and softly said: "You have arrived"

Su Cuo stumbled and nearly collided with the bedpost

This semester, both of Yang Xue's elective courses are held on the eleventh floor of Xida, which is also the Management School where Su Zhi studies. Under this circumstance, she saw Su Zhi walking closely with a certain girl yesterday

Chen Zijia has a sunny smile, yet the words he speaks are sharp: "Is that so? How come I remember you didn't show up in the previous few matches?"

He playfully scrutinized Su Cuo, "It's past 8 o'clock, isn't it? You never used to come to our school to find me, but today is quite a rare occasion."

"There are many people, except for Chen Zijia, you probably don't know the rest," Liu Fei said, "What's wrong? You look quite dejected."

"Acuo." Chen Zijia called her name, and she paused at the staircase.

Chen Zijia nodded slightly and said to Su Cuo, "Let us proceed as you suggested, so be it."

Chen Zijia merely smiled, yet remained silent. The sight of such a handsome young man smiling truly makes one's heart race

Su Cuo reluctantly returned to the laboratory to continue the unfinished work

"Even if I wanted to rob, could I really succeed?" Su Cuo paused his fingers from tapping the keyboard, and with a smile and a sigh, he said, "Mi Shi, you are so beautiful and intelligent. You really don't need to worry."

A short boy wearing glasses said: "It was written by me"

The next day, Su Cuo prepared to report to the West University School of Management. She glanced at her watch in the last rays of the evening sun, and it was just 6:30 PM.

"Su Cuo." Chen Zijia called her again. In the night, his eyes were a deep black, and he was hidden within that darkness. For a moment, Su Cuo felt she could not see through him and did not know how to respond. In the silence, she heard Chen Zijia say: "My relationship with Mi Shi is not what everyone thinks it is"

Time always flies by in the midst of busyness; as soon as February is over, March arrives immediately. Spring is coming quickly, as if it has grown a pair of long legs. Every corner of the campus bears the mark of spring, joyfully stretching in the sunlight. Su Cuo continues to repeat the same life pattern as before: attending classes, studying in the library, and working in the laboratory, busy to the point of being overwhelmed. While this lifestyle may seem monotonous to others, Su Cuo finds joy in it.

Su Cuo smiled weakly. It was not merely frustration; it was far worse than frustration. She wished she could buy some tofu and throw herself against it.

Yang Xue despised her, "You really have no awareness. Who watches the skills in the game? They watch the handsome guys! Do you think everyone is like you, surrounded by so many handsome guys? You turn off your phone every day, and when someone calls the dormitory, you just ignore it."

Su Cuo smiled faintly as she surveyed the streets on either side. In this most renowned city in the country, towering buildings stood in abundance, arranged in a staggered manner, while massive overpasses loomed like great beasts lurking in the shadows. Occasionally, ancient relics from centuries past intermingled among them, creating a scene that was both beautiful and modern. Yet, when it came down to it, what did this place have to do with her?

She cleared her throat and spoke without any emotion: "You do not believe me."

Su Cuo climbed into the car, and Chen Zijia followed suit, instructing the driver to start the vehicle. The driver was dressed in a neat and straight suit, exhibiting a courteous demeanor. Su Zhi had never informed Su Cuo about Chen Zijia's background, but at this moment, she could make a fairly accurate guess.

Su Zhi and Ying Chen are deliberately dressed today, both in lake blue coats and elegant white sweaters. Su Cuo thought that if they stood up and walked around the street, they would surely attract a lot of attention.

Chen Zijia was also taken aback, "Acuo, I didn't expect to encounter you here"

The airport has arrived. The timing was quite precise; there were only half an hour left before boarding when I reached the airport. Su Cuo bid farewell to Chen Zijia at the ticket gate. "Senior brother, thank you for seeing me off," Su Cuo said with a slight bow, "I will only thank you properly when I come again next year."

"Our teacher has a task coordination management system that requires someone to develop software. None of us are skilled in this area. Can you help us?" Chen Zijia stood with his arms crossed, observing Su Cuo's changing expression, his clear and fair skin appearing even whiter beneath the white pear blossoms

Su Zhi listened as his girlfriend and sister delved deeply into analyzing him, unable to interject a single word, and could only roll his eyes in silent protest.

Ying Chen is of the same level as Su Zhi and is from the French Department of the School of Foreign Languages. Su Cuo has always blindly admired anyone who can master other languages. She held Ying Chen's hand, and the light in her eyes and her expression perfectly conveyed her feelings

airplane

"It hasn't been long. Are you Su Cuo?" Ying Chen asked her, his eyes reflecting her shadow. "I thought you might be alone today, which would be quite boring and lonely, so I took the liberty of inviting you. It will be much livelier with more people around. I hope you don't mind."

Su Cuo sent a grateful glance. Being able to say such words, Su Cuo felt deeply appreciative of Ying Chen. Perhaps she loved everything about him, but she had indeed made such a definite promise, which was not easy to do

While talking, the two individuals were packing their bags. This floor is the teachers' office, and usually, the teachers do not come here, especially at such a late hour. The long corridor is empty, very quiet, and the sound of footsteps is particularly loud. The electric lights in the corridor hang high, casting a very faint light on the ground, creating a somewhat eerie and solemn atmosphere, suitable for filming a supernatural movie

Busy until 10:30, the building was about to turn off the lights. Su Cuo stretched and planned to leave, and the entire office was empty, with only Chen Zijia still present.

gift

"Her name is Ying Chen? That name is truly beautiful," Su Cuo praised

"Is something wrong?" Su Cuo teased in a lowered voice, "Aren't you supposed to be spending Valentine's Day with your girlfriend? If I really come, don't blame me for ruining your precious Valentine's Day." Su Zhi laughed on the other end of the phone, saying: "Ying Chen said to invite you to join us for dinner."

On the day she left school, Su Cuo finally made up her mind to go to the office to check her final grades. The grades had been available online for a day or two, and she had received high scores in all her other subjects, including Ideological and Political Education, except for English. To be honest, she did not care much about her ranking, but still felt frustrated. Despite working so hard to learn English, receiving such a score was truly disheartening.

Chen Zijia looked at her, suppressing the last trace of a smile at the corners of her mouth, and continued: "I usually do not explain these things to others. Since the mouth is on someone else's face, how to express it is not something I can control alone. But because it is you, I hope you do not misunderstand. If there is anything, please ask me directly, alright?"

Of course, of course, "Su Cuo said, "How could I not come to your competition?"

Su Cuo Zhuang did not hear it

What happened

As the new semester commenced, the students of the Physics Department quickly realized that this semester's coursework was more extensive than that of the previous semester, with an increased emphasis on experiments. The stark reality dampened the enthusiasm of the class to its lowest point, and the excitement that had characterized the winter break gradually faded from the students' faces

Liu Fei was a bit surprised. She looked up at Su Cuo, shook her head, and said, "I never mentioned any specific work. However, now that you bring it up, I do recall something. A few weeks ago, at a gathering I attended, someone said that only boys are good at writing code, and I disagreed, then I mentioned you."

"If one wishes to keep a secret, one must not act. " Su Cuo smiled, and that smile made Su Zhi feel a bit uneasy about her intentions. "Moreover, you are the renowned Su Zhi, the handsome guy. However, I am very good and kind, and I would never force you to introduce her to me. After all, you have finally found a girlfriend for yourself, and it would not be good if I scared her away, right"

Upon checking the final exam results, Su Cuo's mood fell once again, "My English is terrible. I barely passed."

Yang Xue looked at Su Cuo as if he were an alien, "Tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Your brother is so busy accompanying his girlfriend that he doesn't even have time to come."

She is so clearly aware of what she wants, and she never conceals it. Her purpose is very clear, striving to obtain everything. Just this point alone makes her stand out in the eyes of others

"Senior brother, look, it is I who owe you many favors, not the other way around. Do I really seem like such an ungrateful person?" Su Cuo smiled bitterly, placing her hand on her forehead, her palm resting at her temples, unable to bring herself to look at him; from the corner of her eye, she caught sight of a graceful figure almost running over, and she called out to her, "Mi Shi."

The boy looked at Su Cuo in surprise, then turned his head to look at Chen Zijia

Chen Zijia said: "There is only this one younger sister. If I don't indulge her, who else will I indulge?"

Su Cuo smiled and said, "Actually, it's just a matter of tickets. Well, some of my dormitory classmates want to go see it—"

"What a deception? Can you be more precise with your words?" Su Zhi protested, "Although I did not take a language course in university, you cannot forget all of Chinese."

Hmm? Su Cuo withdrew from the imagined ghost story, stood still, and slowly turned around to silently gaze at him. Her eyes reflected light, and Chen Zijia saw his own shadow within them.

What is the matter? Su Cuo was perplexed.

"It's fine, if you don't believe it, then don't believe it," Su Cuo laughed, her voice clear and pleasant. "In fact, I just don't want to go back with you. Since you've seen through it, there's nothing I can do."

Su Cuo's left eyelid began to twitch, and she laughed heartily, saying, "Oh, really? I apologize, I have been too busy"

"No matter what, it is good that you have come," someone said

"So you mean to say that I overate and got hot-headed, wanting to argue with you? Do you really think I'm that bored?" Su Cuo said indignantly. "Alright, alright. You have to at least give me a reason; otherwise, do you want me to get scolded to death by my parents?"

"It must be very tiring; I see you haven't moved all night," Chen Zijia said as he put down his book, stood up, and handed her a glass of water. "In fact, you don't have to work so late."

Su Cuo found it amusing and said: "Are you looking forward to the ball skills of the Law School?" Huada University of Science and Technology, the Law School has emerged in recent years, and its teaching strength is quite good, but due to the relatively small size of the school itself, its sports level has always been questioned

"Su Cuo, you are here too?" Mi Shi exclaimed, "How did you end up here?"

Although the idea is good, I advise you to postpone it instead" Yang Xue shook her head

Seeing Su Cuo standing next to Chen Zijia, Mi Shi, although still smiling brightly, had a hint of vigilance in her eyes. She carried nothing with her except for the small mobile phone in her hand, the screen still lit.

Just a moment ago, Mi Shi was smiling like a peach blossom, but at this moment, her expression suddenly changed, "Who is your sister? My surname is not Chen!"

At this moment, it is the last class of the first week of the new semester. As the time approaches six o'clock, the sky is very dim, overcast as if it is about to rain

It is well known that Su Cuo assists in Bai Jilin's laboratory, but due to the confidentiality of the project, no one outside is aware of her specific tasks. Su Cuo only informs others that she is organizing and researching materials, which clearly indicates that a data administrator does not need to stay at the school for such an extended period

Chen Zijia turned his gaze uncertainly and smiled along with her. Under the setting sun, the smiles of the two were so similar. "Don't rush to leave, wait a moment. I have something to discuss with you."