Chapter 27
The honesty and handshake that night were like a stone thrown into the lake of the heart, and the ripples were gentle and lasting.
In the days that followed, the awkward and tense atmosphere between the two seemed to dissipate quietly, replaced by a more natural, relaxed understanding. Ling Yao was still sharp-tongued, but the hurtful words were less frequent, and more often he offered "you're so stupid" with a touch of helplessness and indulgence. Su Rui was still cautious, but with less fear and more steadiness.
They still went to the apartment to study together, but the atmosphere had become more intimate. Sometimes, when Ling Yao got tired from playing games, he would naturally rest his head on the sofa cushion next to Su Rui and take a nap, breathing evenly. Su Rui would turn the pages of her book quietly, occasionally stealing a glance at his peaceful sleeping face, feeling a sense of peace in her heart.
Ling Yao even began to proactively check in on Su Rui's review progress. "Did you understand that conic section problem?" "What English essay templates did you memorize?" Although his tone was still stiff, Su Rui could sense the concern hidden within. He would answer seriously, and Ling Yao would then offer concise comments or supplements.
Three days before the college entrance exam, the school was closed for independent review. Ling Yao took Su Rui directly to his apartment, saying it would save her from running around and wasting time.
Sister Yang came to deliver supplements once. When she saw the two people sitting side by side at the desk, a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes, but she said nothing, put down the things and left.
During the final sprint, the two were practically inseparable. Su Rui's solid foundation and Ling Yao's clever guidance formed a wonderful complement. They would argue over the solution to a problem, yet also smile at each other after solving a difficult one. Ling Yao would complain that Su Rui's coffee was too bitter, but he would always drink every drop; Su Rui would silently note down the refreshing snacks Ling Yao casually mentioned, making sure to prepare them on time next time.
The night before the college entrance exam, there was no tension or anxiety as expected. The two of them had a light dinner together and checked their admission tickets and stationery bag several times.
The moonlight outside the window was like water, quietly sprinkling on the carpet in the living room.
Ling Yao suddenly pulled out a small box from his room and handed it to Su Rui. "Here." Su Rui opened it and saw a high-end-looking black signature pen. Two small letters were engraved on the pen: LY & SR, intertwined, creating a simple yet ingenious design.
Su Rui's heart skipped a beat and she looked up at Ling Yao.
Ling Yao looked away, his tone a little unnatural: "I carved the wrong sample, I'm too lazy to return it. I'll use this for the exam tomorrow. It's smoother, don't make a typo and embarrass me."
Su Rui gripped the pen tightly, his fingertips feeling the cool metal and the meticulously carved lines. A mistake? How could it be possible? This was clearly… He lowered his head, his eyes burning, his voice choking. “Thank you… I’ll do well on the exam.”
"Yeah." Ling Yao responded, and after a moment, he added in a low voice, his voice more gentle than ever before, "Don't be nervous. Just take the exam normally."
Su Rui nodded heavily: "You too!"
The two said good night to each other and went back to their rooms to rest.
Su Rui lay in bed, holding the pen with their names engraved on it, his heart filled with unprecedented courage and strength. He knew that he was not fighting alone.
The next day, outside the college entrance examination hall, there were huge crowds of people and the atmosphere was tense.
Ling Yao's car was parked a little further down the road. He got out first and looked back at Su Rui. Su Rui took a deep breath, met his gaze, and nodded vigorously.
Ling Yao curled the corners of his mouth almost imperceptibly and mouthed silently, "Let's go."
Then he turned around and joined the crowd, his back straight and confident.
Su Rui also got out of the car, clutching the pen in his pocket, and walked towards another entrance. The sunlight was a little glaring, but his heart was clear and peaceful.
He knew that no matter what the outcome, this summer had become different because of him.
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