Onstage, Yan Heng introduced Zhong Yu’s corporate culture and unveiled ten new laptop models. As he spoke, the lights dimmed, leaving him illuminated by a spotlight. Standing tall, he exuded calm confidence, his rich, resonant voice inspiring trust.
Shen Xi Fan squinted slightly. The scene felt so familiar. Years ago, as the vice president of the student council, Yan Heng had stood before the provincial student union, running for president. She had watched from the corner of the auditorium as the crowd rose to applaud him, his youthful face brimming with energy.
He had always been dazzling, someone she felt distant from back then. Now, that distance seemed even greater.
Her father’s words came to mind: “His current status is special. Consider your options carefully.”
This man was no longer someone she could hold onto.
Back then, being with him, she had always felt inferior, bending over backward to please him, terrified he might leave her. Now, standing under his spotlight, she asked herself: could she ever be content living in his shadow?
For years, she had fought to prove her worth. Unintentionally, she had gained pride and self-respect from the pain and challenges.
The stage lights flickered and changed, but her mind was crystal clear.
When you no longer love someone, even the smallest grievance is unbearable. But when you still love, you can endure any hardship.
Love isn’t about being “worthy.” It’s about whether you’re willing.
And now, she realized she could watch him calmly. The feelings that once consumed her had quietly faded. Love, once understood, was surprisingly simple.
She smiled faintly at the thought.
Lin Yi Shen noticed her expression. “What’s so funny, Junior Sister?”
“Nothing!” Shen Xi Fan replied, glancing at the corner. “The cleaning here is impressive. I’ll go give some praise.”
* * *
Walking to the bus stop with her bag slung over her shoulder, Shen Xi Fan felt lighter than ever. The air was still damp and overcast, but she didn’t mind. Munching on a pack of preserved plums, she spat the seeds out one by one, savoring the sweetness of her newfound clarity.
She suddenly noticed a familiar figure sitting on a bench in the small park near the hotel. Even in a simple white shirt, his elegance and charm were undeniable. Who else could it be but Ling Yu Fan?
What’s the young master doing wandering about? It seems like miracles are happening everywhere since I’ve been away from Earth!
Shen Xi Fan approached him and called out. Ling Yu Fan looked up slightly, a trace of mockery at the corner of his mouth. “Shen Xi Fan, why aren’t you at Zhong Yu’s celebration banquet? After all, you and Yan Heng have a bit of a connection, don’t you?”
It was clear the young master was in a bad mood. So the competition has gotten to him, she thought, rolling her eyes. “Right now, I’m not Manager Shen, and you’re not my guest. If you push me, don’t expect me to be polite!”
Ling Yu Fan laughed, his almond-shaped eyes sparkling mischievously. “I’d actually prefer you to be a little less polite. That bland, indifferent attitude of yours always sets me off!”
Shen Xi Fan sighed. “Believe me, I’d love to lose my temper with you. But you’re like a god to us mere mortals—untouchable. Lucky for me, I ran into you out here today. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have had the chance.”
He lowered his head. “Shen Xi Fan, if you want to vent, just go ahead. I’m feeling depressed anyway—it wouldn’t bother me.”
She was startled. When had this confident, high-spirited young master ever been reduced to this state? Clearly, Zhong Yu had dealt him a heavy blow. Realizing this, she quietly closed her mouth and offered him half a bag of preserved plums. “Want some?”
Ling Yu Fan glanced at her. “You’re way too old to still be eating preserved plums. So childish.” Yet he reached out, grabbed two, and popped them into his mouth. “Not bad. Good for an occasional snack.”
What a contrary young master.
Shen Xi Fan patted his shoulder. “Fine, let’s call it even for all our past grievances. Come on, I’ll treat you to something.”
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