Longjing New Tea
Chapter 21: New Longjing Tea
The days after the reunion did not immediately return to the sweet past like in fairy tales.
Gu Yanchen's embrace and apology eased some of the knot in Shen Qingci's heart, but a year of estrangement and past hurt couldn't be completely erased with just a simple "I'm sorry." She needed time to process it all and reassure herself that Gu Yanchen had truly changed.
So, when Gu Yanchen suggested "Let's get back together", Shen Qingci shook his head.
"Yan Chen, thank you for taking care of the teahouse during this time." Her voice was soft but firm. "I need some time. Let's... start as friends first, okay?"
Although Gu Yanchen felt a little disappointed, he completely understood. He knew that he had pushed her away with his own hands, and now he was lucky to be able to stand in front of her again and have the identity of a "friend".
"Okay." He smiled, his eyes full of sincerity and patience. "I'll wait for you, no matter how long it takes."
Thus, Gu Yanchen began a long and gentle "re-pursuit".
He was no longer the decisive and career-oriented Mr. Gu, but had turned back into the caring and considerate Gu Yanchen who knew how to respect her.
He still came to the teahouse frequently, but no longer with a purpose like before, but to help quietly. He would arrive early to help Grandma Zhang clean up; when there were many customers, he would take the initiative to help brew tea. Although his technique was not as skillful as Shen Qingci's, he was still quite capable; after the teahouse closed, he would accompany Shen Qingci to organize the tea utensils and listen to her stories about her experiences abroad.
He remembered all of Shen Qingci's preferences. Knowing she liked Mingqian Longjing tea, he asked a friend to bring back the latest tea from Shifeng Mountain in Hangzhou. Knowing she loved the sweet-scented osmanthus cake from the shop at the corner of the alley, he would make a detour every morning to buy some and quietly leave it on the counter of the teahouse. Knowing she tended to get sleepy while sorting accounts at night, he would bring her a cup of warm milk.
He no longer mentioned any grand plans for the future, nor did he try to persuade her to do things she didn't like. He just stayed by her side quietly, supporting her every decision.
Shen Qingci was planning a small "New Tea Tasting" to promote this year's spring tea. Gu Yanchen didn't use his connections to help her promote the event, but instead accompanied her in designing the invitations, selecting the teas and snacks for the tasting, and decorating the teahouse.
On the day of the tasting, many old customers and some new friends who were interested in tea culture came. Gu Yanchen, dressed in a simple Tang suit, stood quietly in the corner, helping Shen Qingci pass things and entertain guests, like an ordinary clerk.
When Shen Qingci stood in front of everyone, confidently introducing the characteristics of various new teas, Gu Yanchen looked at her shining eyes, his heart filled with pride and joy. He knew that this was the Shen Qingci he loved, the girl who blossomed freely in the world of tea.
After the tasting session, all the guests left. Shen Qingci looked at the clean teahouse, then at Gu Yanchen, who was sweating profusely beside him, and a warm feeling welled up in his heart.
Gu Yanchen handed her a cup of freshly brewed Mingqian Longjing tea: "Are you tired? Have some tea and take a rest."
Shen Qingci took the teacup and took a sip. The tea was clear and sweet, with a fresh scent of spring.
"Yan Chen, thank you." she said softly.
"Why are you being so polite to me?" Gu Yanchen smiled. "As long as you're happy, that's all that matters."
Shen Qingci looked at his gentle smile, and the ice in her heart gradually melted. She knew that Gu Yanchen had really changed. He understood how to love someone and how to respect someone's dreams.
She put down the teacup, looked into Gu Yanchen's eyes, and said seriously, "Yanchen, we... can give it a try."
Gu Yanchen was stunned for a moment, then a smile of surprise and joy appeared on his face. He held her hand carefully, fearing that this was just a dream.
"Qingci, are you telling the truth?"
Shen Qingci nodded, a long-lost, bright smile appearing on his face.
The moonlight from the window poured into the teahouse, illuminating their tightly clasped hands and their renewed love. This time, they both knew they had to cherish each other even more and would never let go of each other's hands so easily again.
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