Chapter 4, A Moment of Warmth

"Don't be discouraged just yet; in learning, as long as you put in the effort, nothing is impossible," I quickly brainstormed ideas to help him. "You might consider our school's drama academy; I've heard it's quite good. I'm not very familiar with the examination process... How about this: when do you have time to come to our school? I can introduce you to some students from the drama academy, and you can ask them about the preparations for the entrance exam."

She never considers others when she speaks. Seeing Shen Qinyan's slightly flushed face, I couldn't help but laugh, "If you help him more, he will become your junior next year, and then you can bully him however you want."

I can only tell him about the various situations I encounter at school, such as my studies, teachers, clubs, activities, and so on. He rarely speaks, just quietly listens to me. Every time I get excited and turn my head, I can see his calm profile—streetlights along the road illuminate the night sky of the city, and his face reflects the brilliance of this city, a face so full of youthful vitality. Thus, I realize that he enjoys listening to my anecdotes and interesting stories from university.

Do you have a university in mind that you would like to attend

He nodded slightly, indicating his agreement

Lin Jinxiu thanked me with a hug that lasted for a full minute, so I was unable to see his expression at that moment. I could only feel the warmth of his breath lingering by my ear. Then I heard his teasing voice, "You actually dare to give me such a grand gift, it truly moves me. However, Xu Zhen, I know what you are thinking; you are hoping that I will go abroad immediately and never return, right? Rest assured, I will definitely not let you have your way."

"Shen Qinyan is so beautiful that the old men and women in our college must be very fond of him. With my extensive experience in observing people, I dare say that there are hardly a few in our entire Drama Academy who are more outstanding in appearance than him," An Lu said with a strange smile. "He also has a very star-like aura. Senior sister, don't you think he resembles Gu Chijun quite a bit?"

I am well aware of my own time, Shen Qinyan. I called his name, both first and last, and smiled slightly. I always feel that you are a person with goals, and you would not be content to be a waiter in a restaurant for a lifetime. Although there are many paths to success nowadays, studying remains a shortcut. What do you think

I spent a full three nights on this study plan, and my roommate Wei Shan was quite surprised to see me so engrossed in my work, even thinking for a while that I had found a tutor to work part-time.

Anlu's evasive attitude amuses me; I cannot force her to speak if she is unwilling. What I care about is the ultimate goal: Shen Qinyan has obtained all the relevant information regarding the exams, and Qiao Zimeng and Anlu have also indicated that they can provide further information at any time, which is sufficient.

My father passed away early, and my mother remarried... His expression was one of melancholy, undoubtedly reflecting on painful memories of the past

He did not give a clear answer, "Helping me with tutoring requires a lot of time"

But ... ... do you study economics

What?

That embrace was indeed too ambiguous, and Anlu, who was present at the scene, also witnessed it. As a result, for the next two to three years, she firmly believed that my relationship with Lin Jinxiu was extraordinary. No matter what I asked Lin Jinxiu for help with, he would always agree, even though the reality was that I had never asked Lin Jinxiu for anything. However, this did not hinder her endless speculations.

What I did not expect was that the next day he gave me an answer, a remarkably firm four words: "I want to give it a try"

I silently completed this sentence in my mind: Please never come back again

Ms. Xu, upon learning of the passing of Mr. Xu Zhengyao, I would like to express my deepest condolences on behalf of the museum. Additionally, the museum will be hosting a month-long paleontology exhibition in one month, and Mr. Xu Zhengyao had many precious fossil collections. Ms. Xu, would it be possible to temporarily lend these collections to the museum?

What?

Xu Zhen

Having selected the reference books, the entire city outside the bookstore is bathed in the setting sun, with sunlight lavishly spreading like golden fine sand across half of the city

The film academy stated, "We do not judge people by their appearance"

What is this? he asked me, pointing at the white crystals in the cabinet

I laughed out loud

"That would be great," Zou Qi said, "In fact, we are somewhat short-staffed. There are indeed relatively few people studying paleobiology, and even fewer are willing to volunteer."

Shen Qinyan quickly supported me with a swift hand

Saying this, I handed him a pen, and with considerable momentum, I opened the reference book and the draft notebook, beginning our one-year university plan.

He nodded slightly to me, set down the book without a word, then looked around and quietly asked me: "Is there no one else at your home?"

It is a new species discovered by my father

That being said, I realized upon reflection that there are indeed not many places in my home where people can sit

My father is a paleontologist, and he is very passionate about his career. I said, "Many times we live in the wild, and at night, my father cleans the fossils excavated that day while I sit at a small table outside the tent reading and doing homework. You know, in the wild, the plateau is manageable, but in the mountains, the mosquitoes are numerous and fierce, almost capable of carrying a person away. My father said that if I could improve my efficiency and finish my homework quickly to get into the tent, it would be much better. Because of this, I have developed the habit of making plans, hoping to resolve everything quickly."

He seemed to look at me as if he did not recognize me

Shen Qinyan seemed unable to contain his laughter, yet he restrained himself, lowering his head and leaving a faint smile at the corners of his mouth

It is nothing, just a bit sad

Let's take a look first and then discuss

Even if I remain calm and composed, the moment I hear those words, I can't help but want to tightly grip his neck or kick him away like a shooting star in the sky.

I calmed my mind and smiled easily: "Studying economics leads to wealth, doesn't it? My father said that having one paleontologist in the family is already quite a challenge, so we shouldn't have another one."

"Am I responsible for you?" I said with great confidence, adopting a certain tone, "I have calculated that your work, Monroe, mainly takes place during the noon and evening hours. In the morning, you have from 8:00 to 11:00, and in the afternoon, from 2:00 to 4:00, which gives you a total of six hours that are entirely your own. Studying for six hours each day is definitely sufficient."

After a moment of silence, he replied, "Film Academy or Drama Academy"

During my time in Manro, I will always remember the help you have given me. I patted him on the shoulder to show my bold spirit, saying, "You helped me, and I will not question your reasons. Yet when it comes time for me to do something for you, you act so distant."

I took the key to open the door and entered the house. After such a long absence, the room still looked the same as when I left— the curtains were drawn tightly, not a sliver of light could penetrate, and the dim grayness seemed to engulf the entire space. I noticed a shadow in the darkness gently swaying, a remnant of my father's work and life here.

Uh, there might be some dust, I haven't been home for two or three months

As soon as she saw Shen Qinyan, her eyes widened. After introducing herself, she immediately said: "Senior, where did you find such a handsome boy? Your luck with romance is just great. Ah, I am so jealous."

I was taken aback, and my hand holding the chopsticks trembled slightly. No one had ever asked why one should study economics, to the point that I was almost forgetting the reason myself. The business school at Jinghai University, where I study, has an outstanding reputation and remarkable achievements, making it a dream destination for all students. Several business magnates are our alumni, and each year, the applications we receive from both domestic and international sources could fill a room. To outsiders, gaining entry into this institution seems to promise a bright and prosperous future.

Mosquito?" He was astonished

He nodded and said, "You go ahead and get busy"

I never asked him why he left home, smiling, "You see, every measurement has its strengths and weaknesses. Although I am clumsy at work and only bring you trouble, I am still a bit older than you, and some of my suggestions might still be useful. To be honest, seeing you like this has helped me regain a bit of confidence."

I felt a bit dazed and quickly turned my face away, throwing the last book into the basket before he spoke, then putting away the book list, "Let's go, it's time to check out"

I teased her, "I know, I know, your eyes are just like searchlights, no secret can escape you."

Before he finished speaking, Shen Qinyan came out holding a plate of fried noodles. Although there was only an egg as an auxiliary ingredient, the noodles emitted an enticing aroma. Just by smelling that fragrance, I knew that our cooking skills were definitely not on the same level. I quickly ended the call and rushed towards him, expressing my admiration wholeheartedly, "You are truly amazing!"

It is probably because I have been getting too close to Shen Qinyan, which has caused the female colleagues in the restaurant to be surprised and ask me what secret technique I used to make him melt—I sincerely said I didn't know, but they didn't believe me at all

Shen Qinyan's youthful face revealed a childlike expression, "What do you want to eat?"

Although I am not familiar with dramatic films, I believe you should have a certain understanding of them. Attending university is not a difficult task; with a year to prepare, there is ample time for everything.

In the future, whoever becomes your girlfriend will be fortunate! I laughed, "One of my friend's life goals is to find a chef to be her husband, and I can deeply relate to that."

There are probably dozens of voicemail messages and about ten faxes, most of which are condolences and eulogies. My father always conducted his research independently, but he maintained correspondence with many associations. After my father's passing, I published an obituary in the newspaper and then retreated back to the crowded and noisy school.

At this moment, Shen Qinyan also displayed an expression of disbelief: "So detailed?"

Of course," Anlu scrutinized him from head to toe, "Can my eyes be mistaken?

Shen Qinyan looked at me with confusion and bewilderment. I shrugged and shook my head

The time spent on tutoring passed quickly, and his intelligence and comprehension gave me a sense of comfort

He pointed at the wall and finally spoke, "What is that?"

No, he shook his head

He has a calm demeanor and speaks little. To be honest, at first, I didn't know what to talk to him about. The gossip of our colleagues in the restaurant? Neither of us showed any interest in that.

We sat under the tree, one speaking and the other listening. The birds in the forest were initially startled by our voices and flew away, but soon realized we meant no harm and fluttered back, quietly perching on the branches. Looking up through the gaps in the trees, the sky appeared as clear and blue as water.

I know that I have touched a nerve with him, yet I am the kind of person who always looks forward

But I also find it difficult to articulate my thoughts

Since he is willing, I immediately contacted my junior from the Drama Academy, Anlu, and explained the situation to her. Anlu is studying directing and screenwriting, and I roughly know that her family is quite well-off, yet she does not possess the spoiled temperament of a young lady; she is open-hearted and generous, and I am very willing to befriend her. Currently, in addition to attending classes, she is interning at a well-known news station under MAX Broadcasting Company—she is usually very busy, but as soon as she received my call, she immediately agreed and we arranged a time and place.

Since my father's passing, I have not returned home, only moving some essentials to school; now, as I step back into the familiar apartment, a wave of bittersweet emotions overwhelms me

The senior student Lin she mentioned is naturally Lin Jinxiu, and I was completely puzzled, "What does this have to do with him?"

Favorite movies? His views on films are quite sophisticated, and I can hardly understand what he says

However, attending university is not a panacea; the most important thing is still interpersonal relationships. An Lu rested her head on her hand and smiled, her expression enigmatic. "Senior, if you truly wish to help Shen Qinyan, it would be quicker to speak with Senior Lin."

I selected a book each and put them into my backpack while simultaneously being distracted by the voicemail.

Shen Qinyan is an excellent student. After a simple assessment, I found that his level is quite impressive, far exceeding my expectations. Therefore, I developed a detailed and meticulous study plan, organized by week and specified down to each day.

"If it is just an entrance exam, I can help you with tutoring," I expressed my warm-hearted enthusiasm. "I study quite well; to be precise, my level is good enough to handle exams. Moreover, applying to a drama academy does not require perfect grades."

General messages are mostly eulogies, but the last one is somewhat different. A few hours ago, I received a special message from Zou Qi, the assistant curator of the Natural History Museum in this city.

You have thought this through very carefully. Shen Qinyan glanced at the book list in my hand

Paleontology is indeed a rather obscure discipline

The night breeze caressed my face, bringing with it a faintly rippling fragrance of flowers. He lowered his face to look at me, and on his youthful skin was inscribed an indescribable sense of helplessness.

I said to Shen Qinyan: "I want to go home for a while"

I greeted him, "Feel free to take a seat"

What I say is not empty words. The science and engineering disciplines at Jinghai University are relatively weak, while the social sciences, including economics, law, philosophy, and literature, are nationally renowned. The Drama Academy also enjoys considerable prestige

The apartment in my home is somewhat old but has its own character, featuring dark gray exterior walls and a red roof, which gives it a historical ambiance. The entire neighborhood is well-located, with excellent greenery and a comfortable environment

Why are you helping me? His gaze lingered on my face

Thus, in the spacious living room, there was only a small sofa for seating, which I had covered with a cloth. I pulled back the cloth and invited him to sit down once again

I paused for a moment and shook my head, "But I am far inferior to my father... Sigh, I feel embarrassed to even say that I am his daughter"

No wonder you say you are very good at self-learning

In fact, the topics I discuss with Shen Qinyan always revolve around university life, usually with me speaking and him listening

We walked side by side into the underground passage, as the subway rushed in with a whistling sound, the rumbling noise spreading from all directions. I stood in the carriage, waved to him, and said, "Just consider it as my meddling, think it over."

I quickly rubbed my face, walked over to pull open the blue curtains, and the afterglow of the setting sun "whooshed" into the room, casting a red hue.

After having dinner, Shen Qinyan and I went to the bookstore. Buying books is always a delightful experience, wandering among the full shelves brings joy to one's heart. I took out the list of reference books I had prepared earlier and selected them one by one from the shelves, while Shen Qinyan followed behind me carrying the shopping basket.

We have traversed the entirety of September and October, until the delayed chill arrives slowly; looking up, the broad road remains brilliantly lit, with the flow of vehicles and people showing no signs of diminishing, while the colorful morning glories in the garden are striving to bloom in their final season, until they wither.

One thing my father once told me: the knowledge that is remembered the most is all learned through self-study

Everything is present, yet the person is no longer here. The so-called sentiment of nostalgia perfectly encapsulates my current feelings; every corner of this room bears the shadow left by my father. I stumbled in my steps, nearly falling to the ground.

I was taken aback by his words and turned my head to take a closer look at Shen Qinyan sitting beside me. When he listens intently without speaking, the slight lift of his temples bears some resemblance to Gu Chijun. One is youthful to the point of being transparent at a glance, while the other has become profound through the磨练 of time

I couldn't help but smile, "I knew you would agree. I will take care of the arrangements from here."

I took him to the kitchen and began rummaging through the cabinets in search of food—after turning over all the cupboards and the refrigerator, I only found a few eggs and a package of unopened flour

It is truly a rare sight

Are you a techie? In fact, when it comes to studying acting, the most important thing is to look good. Have you heard the most famous joke?

I am not in a hurry to wait for Shen Qinyan's response, nor will I inquire about the outcome. Each person's path is chosen by themselves; it cannot be influenced merely by my few words of persuasion. He needs to fully consider and think through all possible alternatives before he can muster the energy and spirit to strive towards the predetermined goal.

He focused intently on the study plan, nodding his head in agreement

I looked at him with sadness and emotion, no wonder I have always felt that there is a kindred spirit between us

In daily life, it is all about paleontological fossils, such as spore plants and gymnosperms. Therefore, having seen them frequently, I naturally know a lot. After being influenced by my father for so many years, I can be considered a small half-paleontologist.

Shen Qinyan did not comment on my topic, but her cheeks seemed to be slightly flushed, and her gaze drifted back and forth on the wall behind me

There is no need to be too sad; you are still very young and can try again

To elaborate, I came to know An Lu through Lin Jinxiu. It was about two years ago, when Lin Jinxiu was about to go abroad and held an extremely extravagant farewell and birthday party at a high-end club, one of those events where entry was by invitation only. I still remember that invitation, which was exquisitely crafted and weighed as much as half a pound. The birthday party truly opened my eyes; the level of luxury was so astonishing that it felt like a collision between Mars and Earth, while at the same time, I found it quite puzzling: since he had invited only his university classmates, was it really necessary to flaunt wealth to such an extent?

I listened to the voicemail one by one, and then bent down to open the large drawer under the desk. My father's works were neatly arranged in the drawer. Throughout his life, my father wrote five academic books, each approximately four to five hundred pages long. Compared to some scientists, this may not seem like a lot, but it has had a significant impact in the field of paleontology

At that time, I was taking care of my father in the hospital, feeling exhausted every day; his friends brought flowers to me, and I stood dazed in the corridor holding the carnations, surrounded by their fragrance and beauty. I clearly understood their intentions, yet I still felt a mix of emotions.

Shen Qinyan stared at me for a while, yet did not respond to my words, instead changing the subject: "Xu Zhen, thank you for today"

I said: "I have been without a mother since childhood, and my father passed away recently."

"It's nothing," I said, "If necessary, I can also come to volunteer at that time."

Discussing the unpleasant feelings in our daily lives? Forget it, why should we make ourselves suffer once more

Having known him for such a long time, I can be said to understand him well. I can almost discern that hidden yearning from his face, along with a certain indescribable loneliness. I can understand him; having missed out on university, there are always some regrets.

An Lu was accompanied by a male student from the same college, Qiao Zimeng, who is a friend of An Lu and a handsome junior majoring in acting, which is also the field that Shen Qinyan wishes to pursue.

Ah, it turns out you still don't know. An Lu covered her mouth with a smile, her shoulders shaking: "No... nothing, Senior, just forget about it."

I was momentarily taken aback; originally, we were not walking quickly, and now we had almost come to a complete stop. "Why didn't you go to university?"

I have always believed that once a decision is made, one should act promptly and not waste a single minute. Therefore, I prepared the reading list last night. As I spoke, I took a book from the shelf and placed it into the basket

I was just about to say "no need to thank me," when he continued on his own, "... After I left home at the age of sixteen, I no longer dared to hope for university. But because of you, returning to school to study seems not so unattainable after all"

"It's fine." He did not feel that he had accomplished anything remarkable

Of course," Anlu smiled, "Senior, since you have said so, I will definitely help you to the end.

After work, Shen Qinyan and I left the restaurant together and walked to the subway station located one kilometer away. For the past few weeks, we have been commuting together after work, and it has become a habit

I made an effort not to show my surprise. Shen Qinyan is truly an interesting young man; he remains composed in the face of various difficult and eccentric customers at the restaurant, appearing so reliable. Yet at this moment, he is unexpectedly at a loss on how to respond due to a few private jokes, revealing a shy expression.

I am giving a piece of amber fossil that is crystal clear, resembling a crystal, encasing a vibrant green four-leaf clover. I personally excavated it with my father during a field study when I was twelve, and it holds extraordinary significance for me. It pains me to part with this cherished collection, but then I remember that Lin Jinxiu is about to go abroad and will no longer trouble me, which lifts my spirits and makes it seem easier to let go of my beloved possession. I said to him: "This amber is millions of years old, and this four-leaf clover is the oldest of its kind on Earth. The four-leaf clover represents happiness, senior, and I hope everything goes well for you abroad."

I asked him: "Do you think I talk too much?"

My father has a close relationship with the natural history museum, so I could not possibly refuse such a request. I immediately called back and indicated that I could lend those fossils.

He stopped in front of a cabinet, looking through the glass at the wooden boxes inside, each adorned with a note.

I haven't been back for a long time, and there is quite a bit of dust accumulated on the stove and pots. Shen Qinyan didn't say much; he turned on the faucet and immediately rolled up his sleeves to start cleaning the countertop. His movements were skilled, and he cleaned the pots with precision and speed, clearly confident in his abilities. Given our familiarity, I didn't stand on ceremony: "Then I appreciate your help. I haven't returned since my father passed away, and I still have some matters to attend to."

A glimmer of understanding flashed in his eyes, likely realizing why I was short on money to the extent that I had to work to earn my tuition. He was silent for a moment, and when he spoke again, his voice had a slight tremor: "I’m sorry. However, you are quite similar to me."

During a break, Shen Qinyan poured me a glass of water and suddenly said: "I think you might have a better future as a teacher than as a waiter."

During such a lively occasion, Lin Jinxiu would naturally not let me off the hook. Shortly after I arrived, he seized the opportunity to demand that I present my farewell gift in front of twenty to thirty guests, insisting on opening it for inspection. Having sparred with Lin Jinxiu for several years, I was well aware that he took pleasure in witnessing my embarrassment and helplessness. Therefore, I was determined not to give him the satisfaction he sought. Instead, I chose to respond with composure, handing him my gift with an air of confidence.

He was filled with admiration

The subway started moving, and he stood on the platform, leaving behind a tall and slender silhouette

Let the past be the past, I said in conclusion

This is sufficient

Desiccant. Fossils of plants and animals must be carefully preserved to prevent moisture, to prevent dust, and to avoid damage... When my father was alive, these fossils were his treasures, their importance could be compared to mine.

Although the schedule is quite tight, without hard work, one cannot attain happiness

But he was shocked and hesitant

Every day when the restaurant closes, I always let out a long sigh of relief, as if I have finally reached the end of a three-thousand-meter race. Besides the fatigue, a certain emotion called relaxation also wells up in my heart. However, this day was much better, I believe it is because Lin Jinxiu did not appear that evening, sparing me from any difficulties.

In terms of area, my home is not considered small, but there are not many places for people to stay— the living room, storage room, and large bedroom have been combined into my father's workspace. Books have been stacked from the shelves to under the bed, squeezing both the desk and the bed into the corners. My father has collected too many mineral samples, and the workspace cannot accommodate them; even the living room is filled with various boxes and cabinets, neatly arranged by era and type, containing the fossil samples my father has brought back over the years from deep mountains and wilderness.

The senior students shared everything they knew with the juniors, engaging in a lively exchange of words. We spent nearly two hours over a meal, during which Shen Qinyan managed to gather all the information he wanted to know. I also gained a general understanding of the examination process for the drama academy—first, one must register, then attend the drama academy interview, and if there are any works, it is best to submit the corresponding pieces. Finally, one must participate in the national entrance examination, and achieving a certain score is sufficient. In summary, there is nothing particularly unusual about it. One must register, attend the drama academy interview, and if there are any works, it is best to submit the corresponding pieces. Finally, one must participate in the national entrance examination, and achieving a certain score is sufficient. In summary, there is nothing particularly unusual about it.

I walked to the door and turned back to glance at him. The sound of rushing water and the swaying figures momentarily disoriented me, as if he were my relative or brother. It was indeed the right decision to bring him back today; if he were not by my side, I might not even dare to step through this door. Even if I had the courage to enter, I would probably end up weeping alone.

"My home is nearby..." A thought crossed my mind, "Would you like to come back with me?"

He said: "Good"

The walls of others are adorned with oil paintings and watercolors, while the walls of my home display a paleontological timeline—an evolutionary chart of ancient plants that my father personally created and inscribed, measuring a full 3 meters in length and 1 meter in width. This artwork is quite old; it is said to be older than I am, and it stands out prominently on the wall. Whenever my father discovers a new plant species, he takes down this chart to record the new plant variety.

I first led Shen Qinyan to take a general look at the layout of my house, and he asked me, "Where is the kitchen?"

Shen Qinyan remained silent

I have never been a procrastinator; I quickly settled on a study location—a park in Manro. Given that both of our financial situations are rather tight, we certainly cannot choose an expensive place to study; as for the university and his residence, they are too far apart. After considering various options, I concluded that the area around Manro is the most suitable.

Shen Qinyan bowed slightly and said, "Thank you all."

Shen Qinyan himself did not expect to be compared to Gu Chijun, he raised his arm to touch his face, feeling both bewildered and uncertain, "Is that so?"

During Lin Jinxiu's two years abroad, he would send gifts to his friends in China for various holidays, and I always received one as well. While it cannot be said to be particularly valuable, it was always more special than what others received. For instance, last Christmas, he sent electronic products to his male friends and perfume to his female friends, but the only gift he sent to me was a pot of light pink dianthus.

Zou Qi is very grateful to me, "Thank you so much, Miss Xu"

I explained one by one, and he said: "You really know a lot about paleontology"

He rarely makes a light-hearted joke, and I couldn't help but smile. Then, adopting the demeanor of a mentor, I said, "I have something to tell you."

Can you cook? I am quite surprised

He was clearly moved by what I said, his lips trembling slightly, like a little rabbit crouching at the entrance of a burrow, cautiously looking around.

He could not help but laugh out loud. His young face was filled with genuine gratitude. I appreciate the vivid expression on his face, which contains countless emotions, shining like a diamond. It is not the kind of assembly-line smile given to guests at Manro, nor is it the perfunctory gratitude received when tips are given. I have always felt that boys his age should be more carefree, either joyfully pursuing girls on campus or sweating it out on the sports field, spending their youth however they wish.

Although this park is not large, it is filled with numerous trees, and there are several stone tables and chairs within the grove, providing a relatively quiet atmosphere. I am full of enthusiasm for the prospect of becoming a teacher, as I have yet to impart the complete self-learning methods I learned from my father.

It was actually driven out by mosquitoes

I want to say, yes, that's how it is

What happened

There seems to be something inappropriate in what I said; after all, my mother is still in contact with me and, in a sense, is watching over my life. However, explaining my complicated family relationships to him is not an easy task.

What books do you like to read? Our interests are completely different. Apart from books related to my field, I mostly read about paleontology; he reads social sciences and literature.

"Going home?" He turned to face me, holding a paper bag filled with books, and asked, "Are you from this city?"

Qiao Zimeng said: "At that time, I submitted a script I had written and a music video I had filmed myself"

I am not picky, but there may not be much left in the kitchen. Otherwise, shall we go out to eat