Chapter 6

The next day, when Xu Qing met Jiang Luosheng, her expression was calm, and coincidentally, Jiang Luosheng also wore a faint smile, appearing composed. The two seemed to have an unspoken understanding, behaving as usual and tacitly agreeing not to mention the events of the previous day. It was only in the evening after school that Jiang Luosheng asked her which university she hoped to attend. Xu Qing replied, and Jiang Luosheng blinked and smiled slightly. Occasionally, they would contact each other by phone, exchanging casual greetings that were somewhat irrelevant.

Having said that, Xu Qing turned her head back calmly, looking at the two girls behind her. Suddenly, she slightly raised the corner of her mouth and smiled. The two who were conversing were startled by Xu Qing's mysterious and contemplative smile, causing them to lean back in surprise. Before they could comprehend, Xu Qing turned her head back again

Zhang Xiaoxiao, who was sitting right in front, finished filling out the form and turned around to look at the two, asking, "How is it going? Have you filled it out?"

For me, it does not make much difference whether we meet or not

I truly envy you all, Zhang Xiaoxiao expressed with deep emotion, since the first year of middle school until now, you have always been so close, I have never seen any quarrels among you.

Xu Qing raised her head and smiled, "What more can be said about our passionate connection? From the moment we met, we have felt a mutual appreciation for each other, which is truly rare. In such a vast world, how many people can experience this?"

"I am sure it will be great," Zheng Jiejie said with a smile, confidently stating, "Trust me, you will definitely see each other again"

At this time, Jiang Luosheng would usually find a topic to discuss with Xu Qing, and then divert the conversation with that topic. During one summer, even at the hottest times, Jiang Luosheng would wear a light-colored shirt and dark trousers, which made his limbs appear even longer. Xu Qing was somewhat afraid to speak to him alone, and once, in exasperation, she asked him: "Why don't you talk to those boys?"

Jiang Luosheng nodded with a smile, "I can relate to that deeply"

Zheng Jie Jie shot her a glare, but upon opening the letter, she immediately burst into laughter, pointing at Xu Qing, laughing so hard that she started to cough; Xu Qing quickly reached out to pat her on the back, surprised, and said: "Is this letter filled with jokes?"

"No, I am just too surprised," Xu Qing said calmly. She looked up at him again, and for the first time, she took the initiative to gaze into his eyes, wanting to see what was in them. "How did you do it?"

Zheng Jie Jie sighed heavily: "A few days ago, he called me while drunk, saying that he had broken up with his girlfriend and that he was waiting for me at university. I told him to give up forever, and he hung up the phone without saying a word."

Who says otherwise

At that moment, the classroom door was suddenly pushed open, and a boy stood at the entrance, holding an umbrella in his left hand and another tucked under his arm. He was drenched, clearly having rushed over without paying attention to whether he got wet. The boy noticed Xu Qing standing and Jiang Luosheng sitting, both gazing at each other, creating an indescribable romantic atmosphere. However, he could not afford to dwell on that; mustering his courage, he walked up to Xu Qing, handed her the umbrella, cleared his throat, and said: "Xu Qing, I know you left late, so I brought you an umbrella."

Then, as long as it is proven that these two numbers are coprime, the problem can be successfully demonstrated; evidently, this is quite obvious. Xu Qing tapped a point on the problem with her pencil, making the final conclusion

Xu Qing could hardly remember how she walked out of the principal's office. When she returned to the classroom, her expression seemed dreamlike, with a faint blush on her cheeks. Zheng Jiejie noticed the shining determination in her eyes, excitement, joy, and a spirit of striving upward that radiated from her.

The words that followed were quite unpleasant. Zheng JieJie's smile vanished in an instant, its speed almost unfathomable. Xu Qing immediately grasped her hand. Zheng JieJie forced a smile and said, "Xu Qing, I am fine"

Xu Qing was still immersed in the events that had just transpired, unable to extricate herself, when she was startled by the boy in front of her. She stared at him in astonishment, momentarily forgetting to reach out for the umbrella or to express her gratitude. However, Jiang Luosheng reacted quickly, smiling as he took the umbrella and politely said, "Thank you for your umbrella; otherwise, we wouldn't know what to do."

Xu Qing followed behind the homeroom teacher, watching a stack of papers in his hand flutter up and down as he moved. She thought to herself: it is this small piece of paper. Lost in thought, she heard the homeroom teacher say to her: "The principal is looking for you"

High school represents a significant turning point in life for students, but in a certain sense, for Xu Qing and Zheng Jie Jie, it is merely a change of form without substance. The two remain in the same class, still sitting at the same desk; although they have moved to a high school dormitory, they still have beds facing each other, closely adjacent to the window. The window faces north, providing a tranquil environment, with a small forest outside. In the summer, the lush green branches reach into the room, offering a unique charm. The two remain in the same class, still sitting at the same desk; although they have moved to a high school dormitory, they still have beds facing each other, closely adjacent to the window. The window faces north, providing a tranquil environment, with a small forest outside. In the summer, the lush green branches reach into the room, offering a unique charm.

Xu Qing took a deep breath and said, "It's not cold." After saying this, she noticed Jiang Luosheng's concerned face.

The reunion took place under very harmonious circumstances, so harmonious that Xu Qing did not even expect it. The training classroom was located at the university where her grandmother taught, and Xu Qing could walk there in twenty minutes, so she arrived early. The classroom, which could accommodate one hundred people, had only a few attendees, all of whom looked quite unfamiliar and appeared to be quite intelligent

No matter how one tries to evade it, what is meant to come must ultimately be faced. When the teacher conducted the final headcount in class, the two individuals finally realized that they could no longer avoid discussing this sensitive issue. The classroom was filled with a cacophony of noise, and everyone wore a serious expression. Although the decision had long been made, the atmosphere remained fervent, as if they were about to make a painful resolution, seemingly ready to sell their very souls and bodies.

"Well," Xu Qing took a book out of the drawer, laid it on the table, and opened it, pressing her hand on it without looking. "This is how it is."

Having never heard such words before, Xu Qing was momentarily taken aback by the question. Gradually, she recalled her usual habits, and it indeed seemed to be the case. She rubbed her forehead and smiled openly, saying, "It is better not to have a signature, as it spares me a lot of trouble. I am currently not in the mood to consider anything else; just dealing with various mathematics competitions is already overwhelming for me, let alone the troubles of interpersonal relationships."

Xu Qing stared at the pages of the book and slowly replied, "I don't know, I have never thought about this question."

Perhaps, I haven't encountered him directly for quite some time. They are in their third year of high school and should be busy with their studies. Xu Qing changed the subject, saying, "I wonder how many followers you will have after this speech."

One can immediately discern the quality of a person's character

Xu Qing suddenly felt guilty, coldly turning her head away, staring at the pages of the book, only to find that the words on the page were swaying drunkenly; Xu Qing recalled Zheng Jiejie's words, silently thinking to herself, it's over, just seeing him makes me lose my composure and all sense of elegance.

It is going to rain, Jiang Luosheng glanced at the dark, ominous sky, the strong wind outside nearly overturning the houses. "When discussing topics with others, you are always generous in sharing your knowledge, yet they may not reciprocate."

This statement displeased Zheng Jiejie, who pouted and said, "Mom, you underestimate Xu Qing too much; she will never be eliminated."

Xu Qing spoke in a flat tone, neither dejected nor enthusiastic, addressing matters as they were, much like her calm evaluation of a math problem; however, Zheng Jiejie detected a suppressed nostalgia in her words, and though she wanted to make a joke, she found no opportunity to do so; after a round of conversation, Zheng Jiejie suddenly recalled her own concerns, and both fell into silence

Jiang Luosheng sequentially closed all the windows, then turned back with a smile, "How strange. Isn't it summer? Why does the temperature drop so suddenly when it rains"

You are welcome

Zheng Jie Jie smiled and echoed, "Do you still remember the situation when we started school in the first year? You were sitting by the window, and I struck up a conversation with you"

This time it was Jiang Luosheng who was taken aback, "Do you believe in religion?"

It was just evening, and there were only a few people left in the classroom. Xu Qing, accustomed to leaving late due to her close proximity to home, found that Jiang Luosheng, whether intentionally or unintentionally, would always approach her just as she was about to leave. He would say in a perfect tone, "What a coincidence, I was just about to leave too," and then, as a matter of course, he would leave with her, chatting casually all the way down to the ground floor.

Even though Xu Qing had already prepared herself mentally countless times for the rigorous training during the summer vacation, she was still taken aback on the first day of class—what she never expected was that Jiang Luosheng was also in the classroom

"That is indeed your name above. There is no denying that."

It is not necessarily the case; there is always a possibility of unforeseen circumstances. Even a horse can stumble at times

I remember, how could I forget

The high school experience is quite similar to that of middle school; however, the two are more valued by their teachers. In addition to their studies, Xu Qing is busy preparing for math competitions, while Zheng Jie Jie is occupied with various school activities, leaving almost no free time. In particular, Xu Qing appears to be in a state of intense focus, wishing to squeeze every moment to work on problem-solving, leaving the classroom the latest each day

Principal

Fortunately, Jiang Luosheng did not insist. After listening, he expressionlessly nodded and returned to his seat. At this time, many people gradually filled the classroom, and a few minutes later, the teacher for the class also arrived. Xu Qing was surprised to find that the teacher giving the lecture was someone she actually knew very well, her neighbor, Professor Yang. Xu Qing felt greatly relieved, as she could already anticipate that the training class would not be as arduous as she had imagined.

Xu Qing noticed the deep confusion on his face, and her heart skipped a beat. She explained in detail, "It's not quite like that. People often say that good causes lead to good results, and this saying is indeed very meaningful. You see, when it comes to learning, it is no different from anything else; if you hide your talents, it will treat you in the same way. The more you share with others, the more you will gain in return."

Xu Qing's mind exploded with a loud bang, and she herself was unaware that a light had ignited in her eyes. Her face had always been incredibly calm and rational, resembling a tranquil light blue sea under gentle sunlight; at this moment, her demeanor underwent a complete transformation, akin to the blazing blue flames that appear in a science fiction movie set in the deep sea, her entire aura changed dramatically, making her seem like an entirely different person from just moments ago

If I were a teacher, I would also prefer beautiful faces, Xu Qing is pragmatic, and your speech is indeed impeccable. It is entirely reasonable to receive a high score, regardless of what others may say

Xu Qing never argues with others; whenever the atmosphere becomes tense, she retreats far away. Jiang Luosheng also does not engage in debates that approach arguments, yet he finds them quite interesting. He thoughtfully says to Xu Qing: "Have you not noticed something?"

Sure," Xu Qing replied immediately

Gently massaging her temples, Xu Qing wore a smile that was neither fully a smile nor a frown: "So it was her; Zhao Qian truly has no discernment."

After taking a glance at the argument process to ensure that there were no errors, Xu Qing turned her head to look at Jiang Luosheng. He was also gazing at Xu Qing intently, his eyes for the first time not so clear, as if shrouded in a layer of mist, warm and hazy like the lights in thick fog. Xu Qing quickly lowered her head and noticed that he still wore that peculiar watch on his wrist

Zheng Jie Jie covered her mouth and smiled: "Do you intend to follow my soul?"

Xu Qing did not respond immediately; she propped her head up with both hands and rested her chin on them, pondering for a moment. Little did she know, to the onlookers, that gesture was exceedingly charming

He who helps others is helped by heaven

This statement is not false. The next morning, as Xu Qing opened the drawer of the classroom, she immediately spotted a striking letter lying flat on a pile of books. The envelope was pure white, yet it bore no signature. Xu Qing let out a scoff, habitually shoving the letter to Zheng Jiejie, who had just taken her seat as well, her face clearly expressing the sentiment of "I was completely right, wasn't I"

"You can see for yourself," Zheng Jiejie chuckled while covering her mouth, handing the letter to Xu Qing, "This time you guessed wrong."

Sitting in the new classroom, Xu Qing happily said to Zheng Jie Jie, "We are truly fated to meet."

Half a month later, a bold young man finally invited her to participate in a mathematics discussion with Jiang Luosheng. Although Xu Qing was surprised, she gladly accepted. Within a few days, Xu Qing impressed everyone with her rigorous thinking.

The principal noticed Xu Qing's shyness and smiled warmly, "During the summer vacation, the province will hold an Olympiad training class, with teachers being the best mathematics professors from universities in the country. It will be completely different from the previous training classes. The school recommends you and another student to participate."

Xu Qing is always amused by her words, "How old do you think you are?"

Zheng Jie Jie often said: "I actually envy you for being so ambiguous. In the future, you will realize how happy this is." He appeared to have a deep understanding of this.

The ends of the earth.

At least I have more experience than you

As soon as Xu Qing returned home in the evening, she turned on her computer and indeed found a report titled "Brave Youth Fights Off Criminals" from over a year ago. Xu Qing read it very carefully; although the news did not mention the boy's name, she still discerned the shadow of Jiang Luosheng between the lines.

Zheng Jie Jie hit the nail on the head, "The matter is not significant, but it can leave one feeling disoriented for a long time"

Moments later, Zheng Jiejie passed the paper back, and Xu Qing picked up the pen to write a few more words. Zheng Jiejie looked at it and wrote down some numbers before passing it back. This process repeated several times, and the paper had already been filled with several lines. Both used fountain pens with blue-black ink, making it appear as if it had been written by a single person.

Xu Qing received an unknown number of certificates from the principal, with whom she was completely familiar, a kind elderly man with half a head of white hair. After knocking on the principal's office door, Xu Qing walked in and saw several school leaders smiling at her as she just entered. Xu Qing was taken aback, closed the door, and found herself at a loss for how to proceed

Zheng Jiejie shook her head, "There is no need. Xu Qing's every achievement is the result of her own hard work. If she truly fails, there is nothing to regret."

I truly feel guilty towards him," Zheng Jie Jie fell silent for a moment: "Have you all become strangers now?

The consecutive large-scale competitions left Xu Qing feeling exhausted. By the time the competition results were gradually released, the winter vacation had arrived. Jiang Luosheng's competition results were also outstanding. In March of the following year, they both received the news of being selected for training in Beijing.

It does not matter, you go and have a good time, I will also be equally happy

Xu Qingru took a deep breath after swallowing a calming pill and said, "Hmm. You are right."

"Have you ever had a quarrel? I have been in the same dormitory and class with you for four years, yet I haven't noticed anything at all," Zhang Xiaoxiao said in surprise, blinking her eyes. "What is particularly rare is that you all genuinely care for each other; even if you do argue, it is mostly for each other's sake... right?"

Both individuals are aware that such days will not be plentiful, thus they seize every second to converse and joke. With the new school term commencing, Xu Qing and Zheng Jie are no longer in the same class. Initially, they met every day, but as both became increasingly busy, their encounters dwindled. At times, they would only learn about each other's activities through messages relayed by classmates.

From his tone, it seemed that he did not expect Xu Qing to respond. However, due to Xu Qing's character, whenever classmates sought her help, as long as she was not too busy, she would assist them in analyzing the problems and provide the solution process. Not only that, but she also resembled a teacher, pointing out the key aspects of the questions and the intentions of the examiners, which made her very beloved among her classmates. Xu Qing sighed, tilted her head to glance at Jiang Luosheng, then looked back at the question, and a vague thought began to rise in her mind.

to say one thing and mean another

At such times, the rain does not last long. Xu Qing is completely unhurried, opening a workbook and quietly focusing on her studies. Xu Qing's concentration is exceptional, and she is not disturbed by external factors at all, until she suddenly sneezes.

The question is, what should I do? I currently have no solutions at all

The teachers are knowledgeable and humorous, truly embodying the essence of being well-versed in both ancient and modern times, benefiting everyone immensely, with visible progress; the number of girls in the training class is particularly low, accounting for less than 10 percent. Boys from all over the province quickly become familiar with one another, as boys at this age are the most intellectually active, with diverse interests. During breaks, groups gather together, discussing not only mathematics but also social news, covering a wide range of topics. At first glance, the boys are lively, while the girls remain in secluded corners, resembling quiet islands in a vast ocean. The boys from all over the province quickly become familiar with one another, as boys at this age are the most intellectually active, with diverse interests. During breaks, groups gather together, discussing not only mathematics but also social news, covering a wide range of topics. At first glance, the boys are lively, while the girls remain in secluded corners, resembling quiet islands in a vast ocean. However, girls who excel in mathematics are usually not adept at interacting with boys, finding solace in their own company in the corners, content in their solitude.

So... are there any other places that have been injured

For a moment, Xu Qing was completely at a loss for how to respond, her mind filled with thoughts such as "How could I encounter him here?", "When did he arrive?", and "Why is he sitting behind me?" After a long while, she finally managed to calm her breath and laboriously threw out a statement of little significance, "Perhaps."

Xu Qing was momentarily taken aback and looked at Jiang Luosheng with a hint of surprise; he smiled very calmly.

During the discussion, Xu Qing made a concerted effort to refrain from looking at him. Although they were seated very close to each other, she could still smell the faint scent of shampoo on him, a subtle floral fragrance. Xu Qing recalled that the last time he did not seem to have this scent.

Zheng Jie Jie pondered for a moment, then smiled happily again, "To be honest, I really have a good impression of him now. Where can one find such a brave young man?"

Before the last competition, Zheng Jiejie’s mother asked Zheng Jiejie: "If Xu Qing is eliminated due to unsatisfactory competition results and cannot participate in the provincial training, should I say something?"

Oh, how could I not know that

Is it cold

After reading a few lines, Zhang Xiaoxiao was completely puzzled and asked, "Jiejie, are you writing poetry?"

Xu Qing was taken aback. Thinking of the possible situations that might arise from going out with him, Xu Qing shuddered, "No need, no need."

Jiang Luosheng lowered his sleeves and asked softly, "Were you scared?"

Xu Qing revealed a slightly relaxed expression. At this moment, apart from looking at Jiang Luosheng's gentle and faint smile, she truly did not know what else to say or look at. The atmosphere in the room seemed to be entirely orchestrated by him

Such matters are truly troublesome

That said, she still felt a chill in her arms. Xu Qing was wearing a white dress adorned with blue flowers today, with her arms and calves exposed, the wind causing her dress to rustle softly. There were no other people in the classroom, so the strong wind recklessly slammed against the walls, echoing faintly.

The summer rain arrives suddenly; just a moment ago, the sky was clear, and in an instant, it turns dark and tumultuous, leaving no opportunity for respite. The heavy rain falls like a shower of silver needles upon the ground, while the clouds loom overhead like a vast black sail covering the city. Occasionally, a flash of lightning illuminates the room, causing the walls to appear white.

Xu Qing found her seat and sat down, opening her book to begin reading; after a moment, she felt a gaze flying in from behind her. As she turned her head, her soul seemed to shatter into pieces. The person with beautiful almond-shaped eyes was none other than Jiang Luosheng.

What?

The division of arts and sciences has always been a significant matter in high school life. Once the second semester of the first year begins, discussions on this issue become fervent, with teachers continuously inquiring about students' preferences. Many students perform equally well in both arts and sciences, leading to uncertainty about what to study. School leaders and teachers often discuss the prospects of arts and sciences to provide students with reference points. Xu Qing and Zheng Jiejie have very clear preferences regarding their fields of study, yet the two refuse to discuss this issue. If anyone asks, they simply respond with "We'll talk about it later," avoiding the topic.

"Absolutely not," Xu Qing said softly, "I do not know whether I am strong or weak, but I once lost both my parents in a single night, yet I still stood up to live. I am not a person with a thick skin; I cannot just brush things off with a few drinks. Just like my grandmother said, one must live happily, right? Moreover, this is just a small matter."

As Zhang Xiaoxiao spoke, she caught a glimpse of the white paper placed in front of Zheng Jiejie. She quickly scanned it, assuming it was written solely by her, and, with a hint of surprise, began to read aloud: "When I come to say goodbye, a trace of a doubtful smile crosses your eyes. I have come to say goodbye too many times..."

Xu Qing learned that laughter outweighs anger; therefore, after the midterm exam, when the teacher asked her to share her experiences in learning mathematics, she sincerely looked at her classmates and spoke clearly: "You must believe me, there are absolutely not that many geniuses in the world. Learning mathematics is actually very simple. Just as English requires a lot of reading and recitation, mathematics requires a lot of calculations. It is also known that this is a laborious task. So, with just a bit of interest added, that is enough." Learning mathematics is actually very simple. Just as English requires a lot of reading and recitation, mathematics requires a lot of calculations. It is also known that this is a laborious task. So, with just a bit of interest added, that is enough.

Do you remember, Zheng Jiejie suddenly jumped up as if she thought of something, "Last time we discussed going to Yunnan during the summer vacation, it seems you are busy again..."

You do not know how grateful I am for the time I sat beside you, Zheng Jie Jie gazed in a certain direction, trying hard to recall something, now thinking back, the initial acquaintance was truly ordinary

Yes, there is an important matter I need to discuss with you

Xu Qing was taken aback, drenched in sweat, as she saw her own name clearly written on the letter. She stared blankly at the letter, appearing completely uncertain about the matter, "I really don't know if this person is just acting impulsively."

Jiang Luosheng spoke with a tone of justified confidence, "They are all in the second year of high school. Don't you know? There are only a few first-year students in the classroom, just us. I have a generation gap with them"

The office echoed with a few rounds of applause. Xu Qing took a deep breath, bowed, and replied, "Thank you, Principal Liu." After speaking, her eyes caught sight of the principal's desk, and she was momentarily stunned; the prize was a brand new laptop. Xu Qing had participated in several competitions and had won numerous prizes, but she had never received anything this expensive.

"As a token of gratitude, I would like to treat you to a meal, how does that sound?" Jiang Luosheng asked, pressing one hand against the table and looking inquiringly at Xu Qing.

A pair of beautiful almond-shaped eyes appeared in Xu Qing's mind faster than she had imagined. Xu Qing was taken aback, and in an instant, she recalled more details: the smile at the corner of his mouth, the peculiar watch on his wrist, the composed silhouette during the exam... Xu Qing lowered her head without any expression, pondering: how could Jiang Luosheng, whom I have only met a few times, leave such a deep impression in my heart? Is it because of those eyes?

After finishing her speech, Xu Qing walked off the stage amidst applause. Zheng Jie Jie chuckled softly, "Why don't you participate in the speech competition on my behalf?"

Zheng Jiejie, however, was unwilling to let her go, smilingly said, "I know better than you; there must be someone in your heart, perhaps just a shadow."

By the way, how is Zhao Qian

Jiang Luosheng glanced at the calculation steps, quickly shook his head, and raised the corners of his mouth and eyebrows simultaneously, saying, "It can be described as an enlightening experience. Thank you."

More than a year ago, after the competition in the third year of junior high, Jiang Luosheng smiled slightly, his gaze focused on Xu Qing, "On the way home, I saw a thief snatching an old man's wallet, so I went to chase after him... as a result, this is how it turned out. The phone number you wrote to me was also lost in that incident."

Xu Qing's eyes clearly conveyed the meaning of "then why was I the only one allowed to have this conversation?" Principal Liu adjusted his glasses and explained in a friendly manner: "This training is in preparation for the national competitions in October and December of this year. Based on the results of these two competitions, each province will select two individuals to participate in the national training. As you know, the International Mathematical Olympiad will be held in mid-July next year." At this point, Principal Liu paused his tone while discreetly observing Xu Qing's expression. He continued in a friendly manner: "I have also served as a mathematics teacher and have reviewed your exam papers. To be frank, I believe that whether it is the training this summer or the national training, you will be one of the most outstanding students."

Zheng Jiejie smiled without speaking, while Zhang Xiaoxiao turned to Xu Qing. Xu Qing, with a calm expression, shrugged her shoulders, her eyes filled with laughter, yet there was a hint of sorrow in her demeanor. Zhang Xiaoxiao was taken aback for a moment, then quickly understood, reaching out to pat the shoulders of both individuals, "It's just a class separation, it's not like we won't see each other again"

Xu Qing raised her head, and Zheng Jie Jie rested her chin on her hand, deep in thought as she looked at her. Xu Qing had never considered hiding anything from Zheng Jie Jie. She let out a gentle sigh, paused for a moment, and said: "I actually don't know if it is... it is indeed just a shadow..."

The two seemed to have thought of something at the same time and laughed together, repeatedly responding, "Yes, yes, yes." After saying this, the three of them laughed together.

It was mentioned that the speech competition at school would take place in a few days. Xu Qing glanced at her and said seriously, "Alright, alright. I'm just afraid the teacher won't agree."

That is natural

Xu Qing replied to her with a smile, "It's not that serious."

The mathematics problems during training were extremely difficult. After class, many boys gathered together to discuss the problems, yet even after more than an hour of discussion, they often did not arrive at a satisfactory conclusion. With each successive project and test, Xu Qing's talent gradually became evident. Xu Qing's appearance and demeanor were the brightest scenery in the classroom, impossible to overlook, yet when alone, her serious expression made others hesitant to approach her

Xu Qing instinctively covered her arm, feeling a sharp pain radiating through it. She asked him, "Does it hurt?" Only after asking did she realize it was a pointless question; how could such a wound not hurt

After a while, Zheng Jiejie said: "I must say, it sounds quite romantic. Since then, he has had no news? You have not encountered him again?"

Jiang Luosheng appeared calm, and even managed to make a joke, "This is quite the opposite of the competition; this time it's me sitting behind you. Isn't that a coincidence?"

Very well, he has been admitted to his ideal university and is very satisfied

Xu Qing remained silent, recalling how today, after Jiang Luosheng accompanied her downstairs, he left with an umbrella, gradually disappearing into the mist of the rain

Due to her shock, Xu Qing was stunned and instinctively covered her mouth. Jiang Luosheng stood in front of Xu Qing's desk with his arms crossed, quietly waiting for her to process the situation. Xu Qing picked up the cup of water on the table and slowly took two sips

Xu Qing and Zheng Jie Jie are outliers in the classroom, silently filling out forms without saying a word. When Xu Qing wants to say something, she turns to look at Zheng Jie Jie, only to find that the latter is also thoughtfully gazing at her. She opens her mouth, but realizes her voice has suddenly gone hoarse, so she decisively turns back, pulls out a piece of white paper from the drawer, writes a few words on it, and silently places it in front of Zheng Jie Jie.

After speaking, she glanced at him from the corner of her eye, just in time to be caught by Jiang Luosheng. Jiang Luosheng looked at her with utmost seriousness, with some strands of hair falling irregularly over her brow, almost touching her eyes. This hairstyle, when paired with the slightly teasing gaze from earlier, exuded a certain rebellious charm reminiscent of a young man in a movie. However, once he became serious, his intense focus created a sense of pressure, making one feel cornered, as if all thoughts were laid bare and could not be hidden.

Before the class ended, the homeroom teacher collected the subject selection forms and called Xu Qing before leaving the classroom, saying, "Come with me for a moment"

The principal pointed to several items on the desk, smiling as he spoke, "Xu Qing, this is the award certificate from the recent mathematics competition, along with the prizes. You have once again brought honor to the school"

This sudden change greatly pleased and reassured the principal, who then affirmed, "I believe in you. The school will do everything possible to provide you with the greatest support"

On the day of the speech, Xu Qing finally believed that God is not always fair to people. Wearing the same ordinary light blue school uniform, she looked significantly more attractive than others. Standing on the stage to deliver her speech, she exuded not only beauty but also a confidence that radiated from within, making her a delight to behold, rendering her words seemingly unimportant. The seats in the auditorium were arranged by grade, and Xu Qing heard the students from the neighboring class nearby discussing her, filled with praise. Standing on the stage to deliver her speech, she exuded not only beauty but also a confidence that radiated from within, making her a delight to behold, rendering her words seemingly unimportant. The seats in the auditorium were arranged by grade, and Xu Qing heard the students from the neighboring class nearby discussing her, filled with praise.

No. Only this spot on my hand

At that time in June, the height of summer was about to arrive, and the air was filled with the fragrance of flowers

If it were someone else, Xu Qing would have immediately followed up her question with "Do you understand?" However, now that she is speaking to Jiang Luosheng, she is uncertain whether such a tone is appropriate. Therefore, she asks again: "Do you think there are any omissions in this proof? Or, are there other methods of proof?"

In fact, Zheng Jiejie learned about this matter from her mother one or two weeks ago, but she has not mentioned it to Xu Qing. She would rather Xu Qing find out through the school's channels

Fortunately, Jiang Luosheng had excellent patience and was completely unbothered by Xu Qing's cold demeanor. He walked from the back seat to sit beside Xu Qing, magically producing a thin book from his hand. After flipping to a certain page, he asked in a self-questioning tone: "May I ask you a question?"

The young man's face flushed red, and he stared blankly at Jiang Luosheng before lowering his gaze to Xu Qing. Her expression remained as calm as ever, slightly dazed, with no reaction. After softly saying "thank you," she turned her head to look at Jiang Luosheng with a peculiar gaze. The young man's face changed from red to white, and he ultimately left with a pale complexion.

Since he has not made the topic clear, it is perfectly acceptable to continue like this. Zheng Jiejie suggested, "He may not be thinking otherwise. In my view, as long as it does not hinder your studies, it is fine, especially since you still have university to look forward to."

In the sweltering heat of July, the sun shines day by day, and the air is thick with restlessness and anxiety. Even the air conditioning in the classroom proves ineffective, as people remain prone to anger—arguments over the solution to a problem are commonplace, and it is just as routine for discussions to end in disagreement despite efforts to persuade one another with wide-eyed determination.

Uncertain of the truthfulness of his words, Xu Qing cast a puzzled glance at him, then fell silent.

Neither of the two answered for a moment, nor did they look at each other, both staring at the list in their hands. Zhang Xiaoxiao laughed heartily and said to herself, "I have very good eyesight"

Xu Qing pouted and said, "You know what I mean"

The results were released, and Zheng Jiejie indeed scored exceptionally high; Xu Qing smiled with satisfaction, turned to speak to Zheng Jiejie beside her, and inadvertently overheard someone behind her making a sour comment, "Of course she is first; don't you know who her parents are? Just mentioning them could scare people to death."

Xu Qing smiled: "Thank you"

Xu Qing quietly gazed at him, not speaking immediately. Jiang Luosheng looked back at Xu Qing, the smile at the corner of his mouth never fading. In that moment, an ambiguous sentiment arose in the air, a silent yet intricate entanglement as they exchanged glances.

Zheng Jie Jie rolled her eyes and said, "What are you talking about"

Is he very handsome

As her gaze fell upon the computer screen, Xu Qing found her thoughts to be far more complex than the simple joy she felt when she first heard the news. She felt completely at a loss regarding her own abilities, and her logical reasoning in tackling mathematical problems seemed to have vanished. She was also uncertain about how to face Jiang Luosheng the next day. She picked up the phone and recounted the entire matter to Zheng Jiejie.

After the speech concluded, Zheng Jiejie quietly returned to her seat, and Xu Qing urged her to sit down, saying, "You must be the first."

Xu Qing frowned, a delicate wrinkle forming between her brows, "There is no signature either"

Of course there are," Zheng Jie Jie smiled, "and there have been quite a few instances.

Xu Qing shook her head. Jiang Luosheng rolled up the sleeve of his left arm, and Xu Qing's heart leaped out, her hands trembling involuntarily. Jiang Luosheng's left arm appeared no different from that of an ordinary person, except for a twenty-centimeter-long scar. The scar was extremely terrifying, with a thick, pinkish flesh on the skin, resembling a mark left by a sharp knife that had cut through and then healed.

"I guess he is afraid of being rejected by you," Zheng Jiejie stopped laughing, tilted her head to examine Xu Qing for a moment, reached out to rub Xu Qing's forehead, and said half in reprimand and half in amusement: "You furrowed your brows again. Don't you know that when you solve problems, you always slightly frown, looking very serious, giving off an air that makes it hard for boys to approach you."

Jiang Luosheng paused for a moment, then walked straight up to Xu Qing, wearing a mysterious smile: "Then you must not be scared."

After a long while, Xu Qing tilted her head slightly and asked, "Why do you always wear long sleeves and long pants? Isn't it hot?"

Many classmates in the class had heard of Xu Qing during their junior high school years, and at this moment, they suddenly realized: "So this legendary girl worked this hard."

Zheng Jie Jie, upon hearing this, smiled with satisfaction and said: "I told you that you would be able to see each other again"