Chapter 6, To Lie for Ye Mubei

Why is this guy so serious?

I am like a fool, being played in the palm of his hand.

What! After all that talk, he's still just looking out for himself!

I am sorry... I lowered my head, my voice as small as a mosquito. At this moment, I wished I could break the glass and jump into that deep blue.

Do they really care about my true feelings?

I am completely in disarray, as if I were a computer infected by a virus

These three words are like a curse of black magic, hitting my heart all at once, making it difficult to breathe. My mind is full of these almost malicious words, and my scalp is numb for a moment.

I still haven't recovered from the shock.

I often hear about how someone in the class passes love letters to someone else, or how someone is dating someone else, and I think that such matters are very distant from me. There have also been times when someone left two or three sheets of paper filled with confessions in my drawer, or a box of chocolates, but they have never found a good home with me. Because I believe that love and such things are very distant from me

No one has ever asked me if I am happy today, or if there is anything bothering me. They only ask me how my studies are going today, and if I have finished memorizing the words.

He unexpectedly showed great attention to detail, which suddenly made me feel that this spacious restaurant was not so empty and cold, and he didn't seem as cold and domineering as before... Suddenly, I felt a warm feeling in my heart... Just like standing alone on a bridge in the cold December, someone suddenly handed me a cup of steaming milk tea from behind.

I actually created a false impression of my diligent study by taking advantage of Lu Wei's concern and trust in me! If he were to find out that I didn't go to the library and instead mingled with the "delinquent boys" he disdains the most, he would surely be furious!

It was merely riding a motorcycle, yet I "enjoyed" the experience of a roller coaster at an amusement park

Suddenly, my mind echoed with my mother's furious roar

Shouldn't a girl like Lin Xiaoyu be by his side for me?

self-inflicted

After a while, the waitress brought a steak and then began to place on the table one by one croissants, corn chowder, and hot black tea

I thought I had misheard; that was the voice of Ye Mubei. Aside from him, no one else's motorcycle would have such a disturbing effect. I believed I would never see him again, at least not accept any of his invitations or have any intersection with his world.

At this moment, his smile resembled that of a child, yet the words that came out of his mouth were anything but endearing

"Liking someone has nothing to do with time, right?" He continued, "I know what you want to say. It doesn't matter whether you like me or not; what matters is that I like you. This is my business, and you have no say in it!"

I stared blankly at the ice cream in front of me, not moving for a long time

Xing An, what is wrong with you? I mean the fifth paragraph! The teacher pushed up his glasses and sternly stopped me. At the same time, a wave of snickering arose from the audience

He softly uttered these words, yet it felt like a small hammer striking my heart. Suddenly, my heart became somewhat sour and soft, as if he had sliced open a lemon.

This is not the usual me, nor is it the form I desire

Ye Mubei glanced at me, a smile that was neither here nor there, and then devoured all the strawberries and yellow peaches. He even deliberately smacked his lips, making a "tsk tsk" sound of admiration, appearing to be in a state of enjoyment

Xing An, when you go abroad, do not forget us

The knife here seems to be too dull! It is really not easy to use! Ye Mubei suddenly threw the knife and fork in his hand onto the table. The metallic clatter of the cutlery against the marble tabletop produced a crisp sound, which was enough to draw the attention of the surrounding guests in the quiet restaurant

self-inflicted

Ah? Oh! Almost reflexively, I wrapped my arms around his waist, and inexplicably, I found myself sitting in the back seat of Harley's car, my mind filled with questions that surrounded me like an ever-expanding cloud.

I am propping my chin on my hand, staring blankly ahead.

Slowly, the way he smiled with a hint of frivolity, the words he had spoken, the warmth of his fingers, everything about him enveloped me like an inescapable mist, the smoke emitted from the burning tobacco used by witches, surrounding me from all directions

He gently tapped my head again and said: "Hello, is anyone home?"

I turned around, and he was staring at me intently. Suddenly, I noticed something flickering in his eyes, a tension I had never seen on his face before

In fact, I am not very sure either. I originally thought that the type I liked should be a girl like Xiaoyu, free and easy, like a little wildcat

Indeed, I visited the library of University A once, but that was already last summer. Relying on my vague memories, I will do my best to speak somewhat coherently

A few minutes later, Han Yang and the others left

The milky white vanilla ice cream had begun to melt a little. I scooped a spoonful and brought it to my mouth; the icy sensation instantly penetrated my heart and mind, while the sweet flavor filled my mouth. The ice cream gradually melted on my tongue, and my mood inevitably lowered in temperature.

Thus, dinner resumed in a peaceful atmosphere

The voice from the podium suddenly sounded again

Do not speak recklessly

He and I walked side by side, the silence and awkwardness we left behind with each step. I dared not think about what kind of feelings Lu Wei must have had while lying for me

I think my face must be very red right now

The morning glories bloom beautifully under the bright sun, but who knows that many small white insects are crawling in the shadows? Hypocrisy is like those tiny insects, gradually gnawing away at my good impression of this world

"A bird that is not free?" This metaphor is something I am hearing for the first time.

Pink clouds drift across the sky, shaped like a rabbit grazing. I stare blankly upwards, as the setting sun floats between two buildings, resembling a fiery red balloon

How I hope that one day in the future, I can break free from this kind of life

Well, in another week, I will be going to Shanghai to participate in a performance competition he paused for a moment and nodded as he spoke

I suddenly remembered that this is the legendary luxury five-star hotel with two levels of underwater guest rooms, boasting views comparable to those of the Maldives

For example, he is very handsome

Just a few days ago, she was still embracing my shoulders, smiling sweetly at me, and discussing life abroad with me

If you dislike me so much, why not just say it directly? Is it really that difficult to be honest with others

My heavens! I suddenly felt a wave of dizziness, and then he grabbed my hand, pulling me in as if I were in a trance.

When she placed a complete set of cutlery, far beyond my common knowledge, in front of me, the gleaming metal utensils dazzled my eyes, and suddenly my head buzzed, leaving me completely bewildered—should I hold the knife in my left hand and the fork in my right, or the fork in my left hand and the knife in my right? Moreover, why was there a knife in the bread plate to my left? Which one should I pick up first? The fork in my right hand, or the fork in my left hand and the knife in my right? And again, why was there a knife in the bread plate to my left? Which one should I pick up first?

Please, I have already eaten half of it, could you not make a face as if you are challenging the wasabi burger?

You are late coming out today," he said seriously, "but there is still time.

The first dish served by the waiter was unexpectedly ice cream

Of course, I don't treat everyone this way, you will understand. In response to my displeasure, Ye Mubei's answer was like a smoke screen, leaving me even more confused

I slowed my pace, and my originally soft heart felt as if it had been stung sharply by these words; after a moment of pain, a thick black fog emerged.

In Lu Wei's heart, I am still the obedient girl who studies hard and strives for progress every day, the exemplary student whose photo is displayed on the college bulletin board, Gu Xing'an, who would never do anything to disappoint her parents or teachers. The books I hold in my hands are always "SAT Sprint to 2000 Points" or "GRE Vocabulary Comprehensive Guide," rather than "Rayli" or "Light Music." This is the Gu Xing'an in his mind

"Get in the car," he suddenly retracted his smile, which was half mocking and half teasing, and said succinctly

I shake my head, yet the heaviness in my heart cannot be shaken off

"Ye Mubei, you..." I looked at his unusual behavior in astonishment, completely unaware of what he was doing. Just a minute ago, he had been flawlessly using his knife and fork, devouring half a steak!

In his elongated tone, there seemed to be a deeper meaning. I didn't say anything anymore, just lowered my head and walked while looking at the mottled tree shadows on the ground.

He began to laugh and said, "I didn't come specifically to find you; you must be utterly disappointed, right? I can see your face turning red with anxiety; deep down, you actually don't want me to leave, do you?"

I awkwardly glanced at her, then at Ye Mubei, and finally at the steaming steak on the table, only to realize that I didn't even know how to eat!

In the corridor, the classmates are discussing the entertainment program that aired on television yesterday, sharing popular songs I have never heard before from an MP3. Their joyful laughter echoes in my ears, so crisp and loud, yet it resembles the cooing of doves gliding across the sky, sounding so distant, almost like a language from another country

There are some points, right

What bad luck! How could such unfortunate things happen!

Staring awkwardly at the solitary piece of beef, cold sweat was breaking out on my back. I guessed that at this moment, Ye Mubei's heart must be filled with joy, and my ears were waiting for his hearty laughter

I quickly covered my burning face and wished I could find a hole in the ground to hide in!

Well, next time pay more attention, whether you have just experienced a heartbreak or haven't had breakfast, please don't lose focus in my class. The teacher extended their index finger and poked my forehead through the air.

However, when Ye Mubei became the first person to look into my eyes and directly say "I want to pursue you", I suddenly inexplicably experienced an unprecedented panic.

Oh my god, do you need a reason to like someone? He shrugged, looking as if it was obvious.

Where is this? I still have a bewildered look on my face.

At this moment, Ye Mubei elegantly and silently cut a square piece of beef. He skillfully held the fork, with a posture as graceful as a nobleman enjoying lunch in his own garden.

Yes, it's been several days since I last saw you. I have no idea what you've been up to. He slowly walked over, his voice as gentle as always.

"This is really bad. Look at you, your dark circles have gotten worse!" Lu Wei stared at my face for a while, sighed sympathetically.

What? What did I just hear?

Human feelings, he actually still cares about this!

Only if he is willing to slow down and accompany me, can we search for the beautiful moments in life.

Are you okay? Did the wind blow away your soul? Ye Mubei reached out and clipped my hair, which was blown into a mess, behind my ear. The warmth emanating from his palm finally gave me a sense of reality.

If someone else had saved me, do you think I would have taken her on my motorcycle? He said, holding my hand and not letting go. "Only after I repay my debt of gratitude can I openly and honestly pursue you with all my heart!"

Seeing his careless appearance, I couldn't help but burst into laughter, and I also put down the knife and fork in my hand.

Until later, I could not clearly hear what Han Yang was saying in a rapid-fire manner with a smile. I could only see her young lips glistening with a moist sheen like red satin. The way she spoke resembled a slow-motion scene from an art film, appearing so tender, yet a wave of discomfort surged in my stomach, overwhelming me with a suffocating sensation.

The sea breeze tousled my hair, and my unruly bangs obscured my vision. I pressed my face against Ye Mubei's clean neck and caught a whiff of his scent, the fragrance of shampoo, a faint and pleasant aroma, like a certain plant growing by the sea, crushed and scattered into the air, cool and gentle

This is also a bit too much!

Please enjoy the Alaska Bonfire.

I quietly took a deep breath, and sure enough, he couldn't let go of this matter.

My heart skipped a beat; it was almost a reflex. I quickly turned my head and immediately gasped, nearly screaming.

Finished...I silently said to myself.

Is that so

Indeed, there is no turning back. Although it is under the bright sunlight, this sentence continues to linger in my mind.

My heart sank for a moment, and the good mood I had vanished without a trace. I sighed, put down my cup, and said coldly: "Well, are you really so obsessed with this matter? What kind of mentality is this! I have never seen someone like you! I have already said that I just helped you out of convenience, and I do not need your repayment!"

In the beautiful scenery, my mood gradually becomes calm

I even caught a glimpse of a pair of blonde-haired, blue-eyed young men and women behind him, staring at him with the gaze of someone observing a monster, whispering to each other

"Although I treated you to barbecue last time, I didn't pay, and you were also startled, so it doesn't count. To express my sincerity, I will treat you to something better." He scooped a strawberry from the plate and stuffed it into his mouth, responding indistinctly.

My face was instantly flushed red by this unreserved laughter, and I suppressed the urge to dive into the hole of the desk, forcing myself to complete the translation

Compared to the perfect Lu Wei, he is exceptionally real, so real that it makes me feel as if the place I am currently in is like a mirage.

The motorcycle stalled in front of this building

Apart from reading, I am incapable of anything else

In this situation, I did not even have the time to clearly see the road ahead or to think about where he intended to abduct me. All my energy was consumed in merely adapting to the current state, stabilizing my breathing and heartbeat, and preventing myself from screaming.

"Are you referring to that sea? Then you must be a lonely person," he said, calmly taking the menu from the waiter and casually marking it with a check.

Haha, didn't you go yesterday as well? Anyway, the key points of the exam content will be highlighted tomorrow

She seems to be in a daze lately, as if she has lost her soul; perhaps she is finding it very difficult to read? How pitiful.

"What a ghostly expression!" He took off his helmet, shook his damp bangs, and the setting sun cast its glow on his cheeks, making his eyelashes appear golden

Hmm, too comfortable... so you fell asleep watching there

Perhaps it is the first paragraph I am trying hard to recall However, the voice behind me began to grow louder, seemingly having lost its patience I hesitated for a moment, like a mouse cornered by a cat, gritting my teeth and loudly translating the first paragraph

"Xing An, the teacher is calling you!" My deskmate nudged me with his elbow

He paused for a moment, leaned back on the sofa, and stretched out his arms: "I have said it before, I do not like to owe anyone a favor"

A gust of moist wind blew in, carrying the salty scent of the sea. The sound of the waves was so close that, at this moment, I truly felt that I was standing by the seaside

I was utterly at a loss whether to laugh or cry. In order to repay a favor, I was seized at the intersection in front of the academy like a kidnapper and whisked away to the seaside, only to be placed in front of this table

The unusual gaze of the doorman passed by, and I could not afford to think too much. I lacked the courage to turn back, to remain in that comfortable red sofa. How could such a scene, reminiscent of a romantic drama, appear in my life? I truly did not have the courage to confront the impact it brought me, nor the fluttering feelings in my heart that should not have arisen at this moment

"Get off the car, let's go eat," he said, snapping his fingers

However, when he rode towards me on his Harley, fixing me with a sharp gaze from a distance, I was unaware of what expression I was wearing; I only knew that I could not divert my eyes from him.

The sound of cicadas gradually became sparse, and the voice from the podium seemed to grow distant

However, that Gu Xing'an was not so fortunate. It was the first time I saw her stand up and not immediately answer the teacher's question. Look at that person on stage, her eyes are practically shooting fire! It is truly a rare sight! Han Yang, aren't you quite familiar with her? Has she gone through a breakup, or what happened?

I feel like a fool, a complete fool. Every day I strive to show a smile to others, listen to my parents, and be kind to everyone, thinking that this way they would like me. But now, those indifferent voices seem to be saying the same thing to me: "How foolish, being a good person does not guarantee that everyone will like you."

The gap between the two bodies rapidly diminished, his eyes drew very close to mine. I thought he was about to do something, and just as I was about to push him away, he suddenly kissed me lightly on the forehead like a dragonfly touching the water.

Have you got a firm grip?

Are you referring to this restaurant

Absolutely not! I... I have been staying up late for several consecutive days, lacking sleep!

"You came back so late yesterday; did you encounter any trouble? Your mother suddenly called to ask me, which startled me." After a moment of silence, Lu Wei suddenly spoke up.

"The knives and forks here are not easy to use, are they? It's such a hassle. It's just eating something, after all. Why do we need so many tools?" he said, then grabbed the beef on the iron plate with his hands and tore into it with his teeth, chewing loudly while mumbling, "Hmm, eating it this way is much more satisfying than cutting it into small pieces with a knife! I really like this! You should give it a try!"

What were they thinking in their hearts when they stood in front of me, saying these words

Do you really have to leave now? Would you like to have another cup of coffee?

How did he manage to say so many shy-inducing words so directly and effortlessly

People have always cared about how high I fly, yet no one has ever asked me if I am tired from flying

My heart suddenly trembled, and then it twisted into a knot

I strive to keep pace with him, allowing myself to walk under the protection of his shadow, secretly telling myself: such madness as yesterday is enough with just one time! There are too many temptations in this world, but for me, I can only sample them lightly, and I must absolutely not indulge!

I splashed my still burning cheeks with cold water, attempting to cool down my anxious thoughts

Well, who cares!

In the distance, a white semi-circular building stands majestically on the sea, connected by a short corridor to the long coastline, its grand appearance resembling a hall from another world rising from the ocean

The sudden invitation instinctively told me that it was not straightforward. Faced with the somewhat unusual Lu Wei, I guessed that it must be related to the phone call from last night

Seeing his relaxed expression that seemed to convey "everything is under my control," a fragile nerve within me was suddenly touched

Really? I looked at him in confusion, my hand hesitantly reaching for the spoon on the table

No one has ever indulged me in this way; I have always had to strive hard to keep up with others.

Today's performance was simply terrible

Why? Suddenly, a feeling stirred within me, a wave of slight disappointment surged in my heart, yet I remained curious

I have also said that you do not need it, but I do need it

Xing An, you are truly remarkable; your grades in every subject are so outstanding. How do you manage to achieve this?

Hahaha ... ... Stop messing around ... ...

I feel a sense of despair; he has no intention of considering me at all, and moreover, he seems quite pleased. I am certain that if he were to turn around at this moment and see my face, pale with fear, he would undoubtedly burst into even more hearty laughter

This is also the Gu Xing'an that everyone holds in their hearts

For example, he has a Harley.

I see, what a pity! I have an important exam in a week; otherwise, I could go to Shanghai to watch your competition! I forced a smile, my voice a bit strained.

Indeed, she is a bookworm; has she read too much?

Why? I found myself involuntarily raising my tone, my voice filled with doubt. This is too sudden

Watching him eat with such ease, as if he were at home, in contrast to my own state of constant tension and vigilance, I felt like a fool

Is it really necessary? I took a deep breath and still decided to decline his invitation... Although the coffee here might be a delicacy I have never tasted, although his expression seemed so sincere, although his face was handsomely a bit devilish, but...

"I seem to have seen this place in a dream." I turned around and saw the shimmering light reflected on Ye Mubei's face, and his expression also became rippling.

I suddenly recalled a dream that was almost forgotten, a dream I used to have frequently for a period of time. In the deep sea, I kept falling, with the sunlight above me growing fainter and fainter.

What is there to hesitate about! The dishes have already been ordered, and the ice cream is already on the table. Aren't you going to try a bite of their signature ice cream? With such delicious food in front of you, why think so much? Don't you find life exhausting?" Ye Mubei said, as he stuffed another strawberry into his mouth.

"I never expected that someone with such a rugged face would actually have a liking for sweets?" I looked at him with a cold gaze, yet my heart was wavering, as each bright red strawberry on the ice cream seemed like an enticing invitation

"What do you mean?" My face suddenly turned red, and I tightly hugged my backpack, coldly asking, "What are you doing here? Did you skip class again?"

He stared at me intently, as if he wanted to glean some information from my eyes. After receiving my brief silence, he patted my shoulder and continued, "If you encounter any trouble, you can call me. As a girl, you know very little and it is easy to get into trouble. If you had known you would be late, at least you could have called back or let me know; this is very concerning."

Warm and gentle, the breath brushes through the bangs, as if being caressed by the wings of a dove

Indeed, the pressure must be quite significant

Could it be that the pressure was too much and it collapsed

"What are you sighing about?" Lu Wei gently patted my head, his tone as tender as if I were a little girl in need of comfort. "Have you been studying too hard? You look so troubled. Is everything alright?"

I stood there in a daze, like a fool, unable to utter a single word for a long time

My mind is racing, desperately trying to recall the dining scenes I once saw on television, but now, my brain resembles a television screen with a broken antenna, unable to display a single clear image

However, with his commotion, I finally let go of the heaviness and tension in my heart. It is evident that he did it on purpose, but wasn't it somewhat effective?

How can you still dare to play so wildly when exams are approaching

He suddenly asked me, "What do you think of this place?"

Back in my seat, I felt as if I had been slapped, my cheeks were burning, and my mind was in a daze, unable to clear itself.

Ah? I pulled myself back from meditation and finally saw the expression of the teacher standing at the podium. Almost as a reflex, I suddenly stood up from my seat. My thigh collided with the table, and the pain instantly erased any thoughts I had. My nose felt a twinge, and I was also holding back abdominal pain.

On the distant sea surface, golden light glimmers, as if casting a net that could catch countless sparkling stars

When it comes to fallacies, Ye Mubei is indeed a top expert

Isn't it good? In India, they eat this way, which allows them to experience the joy of returning to nature, so their yoga practice is quite excellent!

Han Yang continued, "Isn't she preparing for the study abroad entrance exam? If it were me, I would have to memorize a vocabulary and grammar book thick enough to kill someone, complete dozens of exercise books, practice listening, and even dream about doing exercises. I guarantee I would go crazy in less than three days!"

I heard that there was a girl in our college last year who, after failing to get into her desired university, jumped off a building. She was saved and did not die, but she went insane

"What? The wind is too strong, I can't hear clearly!" Ye Mubei replied to me with a hearty laugh

Yet Ye Mubei appeared to be nonchalant, propping his chin up with a smile as he said, "Because I am in a good mood today! Moreover... don't you think that seeing such adorable desserts can also brighten your mood?"

I think this must be his cruel joke; he enjoys teasing me like this and takes pleasure in my embarrassed expression!

And I began to miss him strangely

Because I am Gu Xing'an, I have an elder brother like Lu Wei and parents who have high hopes for me. They love me so much, how can I bear to see the disappointment on their faces

Well, since you have already repaid the favor, there is no need for me to stay here any longer! Thank you for your thoughtful preparation and the delicious meal! Goodbye! I decisively stood up, feeling as though I had been played, and intended to leave this place as quickly as possible

My life has not undergone significant changes

Yes, the parents filled with hope

Star Peace

I must say, this ice cream is truly delicious. ... So I couldn't help but scoop another spoonful, then another, and then a third one

Wait! He suddenly grabbed my hand

I find myself inexplicably filled with anticipation

However, I ... ...

I think I must have misheard it

I am indeed tired, but is it really just about having a meal? Am I overthinking this? It is now a little past 7 PM, and I am already ravenous, sitting here, I can faintly smell the unique sweetness of ice cream, and I can't help but swallow a large mouthful of saliva

Whispers from my classmates came from behind, resembling the rustling sound made by the wind blowing through the treetops. I broke out in a cold sweat, maintaining a rigid posture, staring at the lines of lead type on the textbook, but they seemed to drift away from my calmness and reason, eluding me in this space and time, not a single one could be grasped.

Upon looking back, it was Han Yang

The worst part was that when I was at a loss in front of a table full of exquisite Western dishes, that elegant waitress stood respectfully 2 meters away with her hands down, watching my every move intently

With heavy eyeliner applied, wearing high heels, and carrying a small bag, she leans against him as midnight descends, even as the night wind tousles their hair. Whether it's beer or street racing, she is always there to accompany him

What is wrong? Why are you looking at me with that bewildered expression? Are you daydreaming?" Han Yang sat down beside me, affectionately resting his hand on the back of my chair. We leaned against each other, just like a pair of close friends who share their innermost thoughts.

This is right at the school gate! Where did he come from, and what does he want with me? I have absolutely no idea! Moreover, why did he have to appear specifically at dismissal time!

Is the girl who stands outside at this moment and dismissively concludes about my feelings, saying that I "can at most only fall in love with textbooks," Han Yang? Is she the Han Yang I know?

Deep Sea Hotel

I feel the same way; I've been incredibly unlucky lately. I missed the bus this morning, and I was late and even got called out by the teacher to translate the text!" Another voice, which I wasn't very familiar with, replied.

If this is a confession, it is rather too sentimental! However, such sentimental words are simpler and more comprehensible than any love letter I have ever received, and they even evoke a faint sadness within my heart

I walked into the restroom stall, closed the door, let out a long sigh, closed my eyes, and allowed myself to settle into the darkness. It seemed that only this enclosed space could provide me with a greater sense of security. In the dim light, my mood gradually calmed down.

Compared to the smiling Han Yang, he is incredibly candid, more so than anyone I have ever encountered

Not far away, under the sycamore tree, Lu Wei stood there, glancing at the watch on his wrist and then at me. The sunlight was too glaring, and he squinted his eyes.

Perhaps... there is a little bit of it! Being poked at the core issue, I smiled stiffly, exposing my emotions. This feeling of not wanting to admit yet having to admit is quite unpleasant

This must be outrageously expensive, I guess its price could be enough for me to have several good lunches

On the breakfast table the next morning, there were still four bowls of oatmeal, and as I left, someone said behind me, "Be careful on the road, come home early"

"Exams are not something to risk your life for, do not work too hard!" Lu Wei showed a look of concern, reached out to pat my head, "Rest is for better learning; when it's time to rest, you should rest!"

Indeed, on my way home, I felt something was amiss. Sure enough, as soon as I walked in, my mother gave me a severe scolding. Even now, thinking back on it makes me tremble all over. In that moment, I thought she might pick up the rattan stick to hit me... I said this with a look of regret, and if he had paid a little more attention, he would have noticed that I unnaturally raised my voice.

In reality, is it not true, as many stories depict, that no matter how gentle or kind the protagonist may be, there will always be someone, in some corner of the world, who persistently dislikes her?

However, we have not met more than three times

Sitting in such a magnificent restaurant, I feel utterly uncomfortable, even tense to the point that my back is stiff, like a cat always on alert, with every hair standing on end

Looking at the densely packed letters in the book, I have no idea which section I should read

"Eat!" Ye Mubei suddenly pushed the ice cream in front of me and said

Alright, you do not need to return the favor to me, but I personally need to repay you. If I do not settle this favor, it will weigh on my mind all day long, whether I am eating, bathing, or even dreaming. I would even bring it up when I see you. Do you think I am being bothersome? Therefore, I must repay it, it is essential.

Don't come here! If you're in a good mood, why not invite someone else?

This name seems familiar from somewhere

They appeared for a while, and a few minutes later, they vanished into a sea of darkness

I do not know why, but I suddenly feel a surge of anger. With a heart full of trepidation, I boarded his perilous ride, risking being scolded for returning late once again, only to find that I am merely a tool for him to alleviate his mood

Before I could react, the motorcycle roared to life and surged through the red light at the intersection like a gust of wind. A line of cars was left far behind me, and the excited screams of the girls quickly swept past my ears. The Harley weaved through the narrow gaps between vehicles on the roadway, then skillfully maneuvered past an oncoming truck. Just when I thought my youthful days were coming to an end, the Harley gracefully navigated the curve.

What is wrong with me? One moment I am thinking about Ye Mubei, and the next moment I am thinking about my parents' reproaches. I have no desire to study at all

You... I gazed at him in confusion, intending to say something, a pale rebuttal or a futile struggle, my mind a tangled mess, when he suddenly pulled me over.

Suddenly, I feel a lack of motivation for anything. I am merely flipping through the pages of the book mechanically, following the actions of my deskmate. When reading the text aloud, I am just going through the motions, blending my indistinct voice with the clear sounds of reading.

Thinking of this, I truly want to pack my bag and quickly escape from this restaurant, but...

The restroom on the third floor is empty, with no one present

Self-inflicted

After finishing our meal, each of us had a steaming cup of flower tea in front of us, and Ye Mubei and I slowly sipped it, one mouthful at a time

Today I am truly unfortunate... I didn't buy breakfast, I also forgot to bring my English book, fortunately the teacher didn't notice! This is the sweet voice of my good friend Han Yang.

My breath instantly became tangled, and I could only desperately suppress it, not allowing myself to breathe rapidly and draw their attention.

I did not know what kind of expression to face her with. Just a few minutes ago, as my good friend, she was discussing me in the restroom with a tone full of disdain. Yet now, on her round and lovely face, there is not a trace of malice or mockery to be found; her crescent-shaped eyes are filled only with gentle smiles, just like the way I usually see her.

Ah? It feels as if I have been struck by a meteor from the edge of the sky. I think I must still be in a daydream, is it possible that my stress has become so overwhelming that I am experiencing auditory hallucinations? Perhaps if I close my eyes and then open them again, what I will see is the face of my English teacher turning blue with anger

It seems that in his logic, my rescue is mixed with other hues, and everything has become no longer simple

The small talk continues, yet my mind is a blank.

"So pitiful, it must be because you are tired from studying! I knew it!" Han Yang looked at me with concern, pinching my arm, "Look, you've lost weight! You don't look good when you're thin! Your cheeks are all sunken in!"

It was only when I stepped outside that I realized the weather was delightful, with blooming morning glories everywhere in the flowerbed. The teacher was going to discuss the exam paper in the morning class, so I left home early, but after walking just a few steps, I found myself unable to continue and stopped involuntarily.

I never imagined that one day I would be sitting on a soft red sofa, gazing at a vast expanse of transparent glass, and the dim seabed beyond it. Schools of shimmering fish darted out from the coral reefs, gliding over the jagged artificial rocks, quietly passing above me. Their formation was so orderly, as if they were following the commands of some magical conductor, with even the angles of their turns in the dance being so consistent, that I couldn't help but be captivated by the sight. Schools of shimmering fish darted out from the coral reefs, gliding over the jagged artificial rocks, quietly passing above me. Their formation was so orderly, as if they were following the commands of some magical conductor, with even the angles of their turns in the dance being so consistent, that I couldn't help but be captivated by the sight.

Isn't playing the piano at home the same as playing it on stage? Lu Wei said nonchalantly

It turns out that my image in everyone's mind has been fixed as a fool buried under a mountain of books and a sea of questions

The lost me now only wishes to be alone, to stay in a small space, so I remained silent, quietly listening to the conversations outside

Ye Mubei's gaze gradually became serious as he looked at me. He scratched the back of his head and said slowly, "Alright, it seems you are quite persistent about this. You must get to the bottom of everything, don't you?"

Sitting in the classroom, I heard the hushed whispers of two boys behind me

And this deep blue evokes my memories of this dream

Daydreaming while crossing the street is likely a very dangerous thing

A series of sparse footsteps came from outside the door, and the next moment, a girl's cheerful voice filled the entire small space

"Don't be ridiculous, she wouldn't want to hit you. Doesn't the library close at 5:30? Didn't the administrator wake you up?" Lu Wei stared at me in confusion, his gaze seemingly trying to pierce a hole in my face.

Hey! Xing An, what are you daydreaming about

My goodness! I think I have overestimated my heart!

I never expected that there would come a day when I would lie to Lu Wei. I looked at him, smiling, but my heart gradually sank.

What did you just say

Suddenly, my body stiffened, and I was forced to stop my hand. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of the waitress quietly and swiftly leaving this place. Perhaps she could no longer bear to watch?

"It's nothing, just a bit sleep-deprived, I stayed up too late last night." After a few seconds of daze, I finally reacted, forcing a stiff smile, trying to curve my lips into the same arc as hers, even though at that moment, my heart just wanted to scream, shake off her hand, and then rush out, out of this classroom, out of this suffocating space

"A breakup? Are you out of your mind? Do you want me to throw a comb at your face? She is at most in a relationship with her textbooks!" Han Yang said loudly

Ye Mubei's face was shrouded in the swirling steam, rendering it indistinct. He did not notice my bewildered expression, but instead skillfully pulled the thick soup towards himself and began to drink.

"Drive a little slower! It's too fast!" I felt like I might fly out of the car at any moment, so I had to hold onto Ye Mubei a bit tighter, even my toes were trembling. With his almost reckless driving style, I instinctively sensed that it wouldn't be long before a string of police cars would be trailing behind us.

I looked at myself in the mirror, my eyes vacant, like a puppet that has lost its soul

Having stayed in the cage for too long, the genuine feelings between people have become so unfamiliar, and those things that should have been recorded on the pages of youth have also become unattainable

Indeed

However, for some reason, seeing you evokes a special feeling; you are different from her, you have a pair of innocent eyes, just like a bird that is not free

If I were a bird without freedom, then I would certainly be confined within a golden cage built by hypocrisy and indifference. Although I never have to worry about a lack of material possessions, I must confront those ostentatious smiles.

If you are going to go mad, just don't start wildly attacking others

You haven't been to that library, have you? It feels amazing! The environment is very quiet, there are many books, and there is even an entire section dedicated to foreign language books

I watched his silhouette and suddenly realized that he had grown a bit taller during this period. His shadow was elongated, and the sunlight shone down on his head, dazzling me to the point where I could hardly open my eyes

In order to conceal my embarrassment and clumsiness, he actually sacrificed his own image just to help me relax

After five or six seconds of silence, Ye Mubei finally couldn't hold back any longer. He blinked his eyes and waved his five fingers in front of me, asking, "What's wrong?"

Is it true? I touched my face, turned my head, and let my gaze wander in the corridor. The girls who had been talking about me in the restroom were now standing at the classroom door, excitedly discussing something around an idol magazine

The motorcycle came to a stop in front of me, blocking my way. Suddenly, a dozen pairs of eyes shot towards us like arrows, accurately and keenly focusing on him and me, either out of curiosity or gossip. I even saw a few girls across the street pointing and whispering about Ye Mubei, their faces adorned with ambiguous smiles.

My mind is blank, and I do not know what to do. Where should I focus my gaze? What should I do next, and what should I say?

I took a deep breath and then said: "I am not like Xiaoyu, a girl who dares to dress boldly and play freely. I dress very simply every day, do not wear makeup, and do not even know the correct way to use a cue stick. I have to study at night and cannot watch your car races... A girl who can do nothing but study must be very boring to you, right? What is it about me that can attract you?"... A girl who can do nothing but study must be very boring to you, right? What is it about me that can attract you?"

Do you know that you need to prepare for the interview now? The exam should be the top priority!

At this moment, I suddenly recalled what Ye Mubei had said to me yesterday at the barbecue stall—"Some people say this is not good, but that is because a part of them harbors unseemly corners in their hearts, unwilling to let others know too much about them. As for me... I believe that one must be frank with those who are with me, so whether it is good or not, you can judge for yourself"

bookworm

I didn't even have the courage to look up at the expressions of those two people. The next moment, a disaster occurred—whether it was due to the wrong angle or poor control of force, a large piece of tender red beef suddenly flew out from under my knife and landed in Ye Mubei's soup bowl

Looking at the sea, do you not feel a bit lonely? It is so vast, so deep, so cold, filled with unfamiliar creatures. Surrounded by it, one feels so insignificant, so solitary, and longs for companionship

A wave of warmth emanated from Lu Wei's palm, yet this warmth transformed into a profound sense of guilt within my heart

The Harley rode all the way to the seaside, and in the narrow field of vision, the coastal road was so empty that not a single car could be seen. It felt as if the entire world consisted only of me and Ye Mubei. Gradually, I became accustomed to this lightning-fast speed

My parents looked at me with no different expression; it seemed to them that questioning their daughter about returning late was merely a matter of course. However, after that night, my heart felt like a fragile kite, easily swept away by a strong wind, uncontrollably flying far away, never to return to its original place

It is very beautiful here, and the food is also delicious. I described it with barren adjectives, of course, I concealed some shock and emotion

I shook my head and returned my gaze to the deep sea

Before I could react, Ye Mubei had already grabbed my arm. I was lifted up without any warning. To avoid losing my balance and embarrassingly falling to the ground, I had no choice but to cling to his arm like a panicked little bird, letting out soft cries while holding on to the only thing I could grasp steadily amidst the shaking.

Lu Wei, you are truly wonderful!" I sighed and said with a smile

What do you want to say? My heart was lifted once again by him, what does he want to say?

Even those who usually do not like sweets will fall in love with desserts again after tasting the ice cream here. Don't believe it? Just take a bite

Ye Mubei spoke, his voice becoming low and gentle, audible only to me

For example, he can summon the winds and call forth the rain on East Street

The students who had crossed the zebra crossing dispersed in all directions like a tide. As I wobbled forward, a familiar roar of a motorcycle suddenly pierced my ears

Great, there are still 5 minutes left, we won't be late now, let's hurry up! Lu Wei walked ahead of me, glanced at his watch, and revealed a relieved smile, then quickened his pace.

My goodness! What a slow reaction!" He held his forehead, rolled his eyes, took a deep breath, and said to me slowly and deliberately, "I said, I want to pursue you!"

After saying these words, even my legs went weak.

I stared at him blankly, almost defeated by him, without any ability to fight back.

A wave of profound sorrow surged within my heart

Hey Xing'an, do you want to go singing with us this weekend? Yes, it's a pity that you have to attend tutoring!

Until the moment I stepped out of the school gate after classes, I was still enveloped in this layer of haze

Vanilla and chocolate ice cream, surrounded by strawberries, yellow peaches, and dragon fruit, wrapped in smooth meringue, drizzled with rich spirits, presents a scene of joy

I... I think I should leave first! Like Cinderella suddenly awakened by the chime of the clock at 12 o'clock, I abruptly pushed him away, grabbed my bag from the chair, and fled in a panic, not even daring to look back at his reaction

The pace once again became slow, and the road to school seemed to suddenly stretch long, long enough that I would need to spend four times the usual time to walk it. I kept pondering, no, reflecting. I did not want to disappoint my parents; they had already invested too much effort in me. I also did not want to lose Lu Wei's tenderness, as these were all important parts of my growth, always serving as the driving force propelling me forward. It is hard to imagine what I would become without them. Wandering at the crossroads on my own feet, I would probably become a clueless fool!

"It seems you don't want to see me?" He raised an eyebrow, pressed the accelerator, and feigned an appearance as if he was about to leave.

Ah, it is this kind of gaze. Do you know that sometimes, when you look like this, it can cause someone heartache?" He said, placing his hand on his chest, as if it truly began to ache there. "I like to see you laugh heartily. I want to make you happy, to keep you happy, so that you no longer show such an expression.

You selfish person! You are truly exceptionally arrogant! Is this how you treat everyone? With all the back and forth of human relationships, don't you find it exhausting?

Hey Ann, I have two tickets to a concert. Don't you know who Mayday is? It's okay, just search for their songs on your phone and listen!

The floor of the restaurant was very slippery, and I almost fell. I ran towards the door with such effort and determination, as if a shadow were chasing me from behind

Sitting here foolishly is not a solution. I finally straightened my back, closed my mouth tightly, and forced myself to appear calm and composed. I reached out to grab the knife placed in the upper left corner. Should I use my left hand or my right hand? I couldn't care less at this point. I picked up the fork with my right hand and pressed down on a large piece of bloody meat, while my left hand took the dinner knife. In this manner, I began to saw away, making a creaking sound as if sawing wood.

"How terrifying! Could she also end up like that? What if she goes crazy before the exam even arrives?"

Why did no one tell me such words earlier

I have also stated that I do not need you to repay me a favor

His voice brushed past my ears, and my heart suddenly trembled. Is this considered a confession

I truly concede defeat to you! Please don't be so unapproachable! A girl like this is not lovable!" Ye Mubei said with a bitter smile, shaking his head, rubbing his temples as if in pain, "Could you at least let me finish my words!"

I suddenly recalled their youthful faces, those smiles, now resembling the crispy biscuits sold at the grocery store by the school gate, round and bright, thin as paper, with a gentle bite, they crumble into tasteless powder

He actually did not mock me, but instead ate that piece of meat! What is going on?

However, in the face of the luxurious ice cream, I hesitated. For some inexplicable reason, I was brought to such a high-end hotel; what could be the reason for this?

This piece of meat is even tougher than I had imagined, and I gritted my teeth with effort, carefully maneuvering the knife. Despite this, the knife still scraped against the edge of the iron plate, producing an exaggerated metallic clanging sound. This noise seemed quite comical in the quiet restaurant, and I tried my best to ignore it, but my face uncontrollably flushed with heat

His theory is both selfish and domineering, almost incomprehensible, yet for some reason, I just cannot seem to get angry.

Now that I think about it, I suddenly feel a sense of fear—indeed, after telling one lie, it becomes necessary to tell more lies to cover it up

I detest you! You are too cunning!

Yet my heart still races, this is truly terrible

Is this ... ... for me? I looked at Ye Mubei with a puzzled expression, wondering why it suddenly ... ... today

You... this has turned into hand-held beef! I gently reminded him

However, I am not prepared at all, and I always feel that accepting such direct and intense emotions could easily lead to being burned if I am not careful

Is that so? Ye Mubei smiled and said, "That's great! I was worried that you didn't like steak! Then I can consider this as repaying a favor!"

Haha, it was fortunate that I poked you at that time, otherwise your little distraction would have gone who knows where! You have to treat me to spicy hot pot!" the third girl said joyfully and loudly

Wait! I... I haven't thought it through yet

"The piece of meat is too large, can't you finish it?" His calm voice rang in my ears as a shiny fork reached over, firmly spearing the unfortunate piece of meat. "Hmm, eating it with corn soup adds a unique flavor!"

"It's nothing, just reading, you know." I somewhat guiltily shifted my gaze away from him, pretending to look at a tabby cat lazily walking along the stone wall in the distance, and changed the subject, "I heard you've been busy preparing for the piano performance recently? You must be very busy, right?"

The sound of footsteps had disappeared for a long time before I finally emerged from the cubicle

What are you doing outside by yourself? Are you out fooling around with someone else?

You actually came to pick me up for school? I felt a sudden tightness in my heart: "How rare, it has been a long time since we went to school together. I remember the last time was two or three months ago, right?"

Her reminder elicited another round of suppressed laughter from the audience

I quickly lowered my head; his sigh was light, yet it struck my heart heavily like a hammer. I was well aware that the dark circles under my eyes were not a result of intense studying and exams, but rather from other troubling matters—such as Lin Xiaoyu, who always avoided me, and Ye Mubei, who constantly disrupted my life.

My heart rose to my throat again, and I had no choice but to continue to hold on. "You are referring to the city library, right? I went to Library A, which is open until 9:30 PM."

No, I think he will definitely think I am joking. The scene of me and Ye Mubei running hand in hand down the street probably seems as absurd to him as something out of a fantasy film. Unless I am crazy, I would not do such a thing

Lu Wei's expression was as serious as if he were facing a criminal case. His hand lingered on my shoulder for a few seconds, and an unusual heaviness washed over me. I suppressed the guilt churning within and feigned nonchalance, waving my hand dismissively: "It's nothing! You and my mom are so tense, it's putting a lot of pressure on me! Actually, it's nothing; I just went to the library to read, and before I knew it, I fell asleep and lost track of time. I didn't expect that when I woke up, it was already completely dark outside! It really startled me!" Actually, it's nothing; I just went to the library to read, and before I knew it, I fell asleep and lost track of time. I didn't expect that when I woke up, it was already completely dark outside! It really startled me!

I do not understand why he would help me lie, nor do I have the courage to figure it out. The reasons he mentioned on the phone also left me completely unable to relax. However, if it were not for his concealment, perhaps last night I would have already been beaten to a pulp by my mother's whip!

Lu Wei continued to gaze at me in confusion, while I could only strive to maintain a stiff smile

Student Gu Xing'an

Yet Han Yang, my best friend, is now on the other side of a door, telling others that this is "self-inflicted"

Feeling stressed? That is self-inflicted. If one does not possess the capability, then there is no need to aim for prestigious foreign universities! As for the top ten Ivy League schools, I believe that being able to attend any ordinary university abroad is already quite commendable! Why must one strive for such excellence, only to study like a madman? It is much more comfortable to live a normal life like we do...

I stared blankly out the window when suddenly someone tapped my head with a book

Then there was a burst of laughter and playful banter

human feelings