Agreed to Just Once - Chapter 22: Not Opposed
Chapter 22: Not Opposed
He Wenshuo’s eyes widened, his brows furrowed. He never expected that the confession he’d mustered all his courage to make would be physically interrupted by Jiang Yinian just like that.
He looked up, meeting Jiang Yinian’s panicked, flustered gaze.
For a moment, He Wenshuo’s mind went blank, but he quickly snapped back to reality. Immediately after, his heart began to race uncontrollably.
Jiang Yinian knew!
Jiang Yinian had covered his mouth not because he didn’t understand what He Wenshuo was about to say, but because he clearly understood his intentions and deliberately didn’t want him to speak.
But he had to say it.
Besides, he had already started. Not only did he need to say it, but he also had to make everything clear in one go.
He Wenshuo raised his hand, gripping Jiang Yinian’s wrist firmly, and moved his hand away from his mouth. His dark eyes were filled with genuine emotion.
Nian Nian, I like you. I really, really like you. I’ve always liked youprobably from a very, very long time ago. I don’t even know exactly when it started.
Jiang Yinian almost held his breath. If He Wenshuo hadn’t been holding one of his hands, he would have covered his own ears.
He Wenshuo stared directly at Jiang Yinian, continuing his confession: I don’t want to be your friend. I want to be your boyfriend. Is that okay?
This is bad, really bad.
Jiang Yinian’s heart was pounding wildly. The reason he had instinctively covered He Wenshuo’s mouth was precisely because he didn’t want to hear those words.
Because once He Wenshuo said them, he truly had no idea how to reject him.
He Wenshuo was different from all the others who had confessed to him, whether openly or subtly.
They had known each other for so long, were each other’s best friends, understood each other’s preferences, and were more like family than family itself.
He couldn’t bear to see He Wenshuo disappointed or heartbroken, nor could he withstand his usual style of persistent persuasion.
Moreover, once He Wenshuo’s confession was out in the open, whether he rejected him or not, they could never go back to their simple friendship.
Jiang Yinian was deeply conflicted. He had previously suspected that He Wenshuo might like him but later convinced himself he was overthinking it.
Jiang Yinian decided to make one last attempt, forcing himself to sound calm as he analyzed: What if… you might not actually like me? Maybe it’s just because we’ve known each other for so long that you’re used to spending time with me.
His voice grew softer: And you’ve confused love with friendship.
He Wenshuo’s gaze remained clear and unwavering, completely unaffected by Jiang Yinian’s seemingly logical but ultimately unconvincing argument.
Jiang Yinian looked up at the sky, growing increasingly unsure: It’s not impossible, right?
It’s completely impossible!
He Wenshuo declared resolutely. He was absolutely certain now. In the past, he might have been confused, but now, he had it all figured out.
Friends were friends, and the person he loved was the person he loved.
He could provide the most compelling evidence.
Nian Nian, normal friends don’t want to hug you, kiss you, or see you every single moment.
What?
Jiang Yinian paused, his mind still echoing those words. Before he could process anything, He Wenshuo suddenly leaned in, and an insistent kiss landed on his lips.
The moment their lips touched, both of them froze.
He Wenshuo had wanted to do this for a long timeperhaps since the first time he helped Jiang Yinian apply lipstick, or even earlier, back when he found everything Jiang Yinian said to be right and utterly endearing.
Being just friends wasn’t enough. Truly, it wasn’t.
He met Jiang Yinian’s bewildered gaze, then captured those soft lips, gently nibbling on them.
The latter trembled slightly, too stunned to even think of resisting.
Kissing seemed to be something one could master without being taughtbecause lips were so tender, and when warmth met softness, it made one linger involuntarily.
A breeze drifted slowly by.
With scorching breaths so close, Jiang Yinian’s thoughts were in complete disarray.
A long time passed.
He Wenshuo finally ended the kiss, releasing Jiang Yinian’s wrist as well, and flashed a smug grin: See? I wasn’t mistaken. I do like you. You’re the one who got it wrong.
Jiang Yinian froze:
He Wenshuo shook Jiang Yinian’s shoulders, pulling him out of his daze, and persisted with his relentless murmuring.
Niannian, I like you.
Niannian, I really, really like you.
Niannian, let’s be together.
Niannian
Jiang Yinian wasn’t thick-skinned to begin with, and after being called out like that a few times, his entire face burned as if on fire: …Stop shouting. Let me think.
What was there left to think about? He Wenshuo fretted and refused to let up: No, you have to agree quickly.
Jiang Yinian shifted backward, unable to bear He Wenshuo constantly leaning in to speakthat face would disrupt his ability to think straight: I still need to think.
Fine, let him think.
He Wenshuo conceded temporarily.
Three minutes later.
He Wenshuo’s patience ran out. They knew each other inside and outwhat could possibly require such a long time to consider?
Niannian, have you decided?
Jiang Yinian closed his eyes: No.
He Wenshuo: If you don’t agree, I won’t take you back.
There was no turning back now. Today, Jiang Yinian had to agreeno room for negotiation. Otherwise, their lives would become unlivable.
Jiang Yinian turned his head away from He Wenshuo, his gaze falling on the large, round lotus leaves nearby.
Fine, if they weren’t leaving, then they weren’t leaving. He refused to believe He Wenshuo would truly have the heart to leave him sitting here all night.
Maybe he shouldn’t have come along in the first place. But it was too late for regrets. If he hadn’t come, perhaps this day would have arrived a little later.
If only He Wenshuo still saw him as a friend. But now, the way He Wenshuo looked at him was as if he wanted to devour him whole.
Jiang Yinian had no choice but to accept the reality in his heartthere was no going back. He had to look forward.
They sat for what felt like half the day, the sun in the sky shifting noticeably westward.
Jiang Yinian’s feet, which had been dangling in the water and washed clean, had long since dried. His shoes were unwearable, caked together with black mud.
He turned to look at He Wenshuo, who was squatting nearby guarding him as if he were some precious treasure, and made a decision: It’s getting late. Let’s go back.
He Wenshuo brightened: Go back? So you agree to be with me?
Jiang Yinian said, You’re being unreasonable.
He Wenshuo saw right through it: If I were reasonable, you wouldn’t let me be your boyfriend.
Jiang Yinian pressed a hand to his foreheadhe must have been infected with this foolishness: Alright, let’s go.
He Wenshuo’s eyes sparkled as he insisted on getting an answer: So now I’m your boyfriend, right?
Jiang Yinian’s tense resolve finally wore down: Yes, yes, yes. Can we go back now?
He Wenshuo’s eyes instantly lit up, his heart feeling as if countless fireworks had burst inside. He eagerly agreed: Okay, okay, let’s go back right now.
He immediately turned and crouched down beside Jiang Yinian: You can’t wear your shoes anymore. Come on, I’ll carry you back.
No need, I’ll walk myself.
Jiang Yinian shook his head repeatedly. If the shoes couldn’t be worn, then so be itit wasn’t far anyway. He could just walk back. What would it look like to be carried by He Wenshuo?
There are small stones and broken glass on the path. He Wenshuo couldn’t bear the thought of Jiang Yinian hurting his feet. He turned around and reached out toward him: If you don’t want to be carried, then I’ll carry you in my arms instead.
That would be even more embarrassing if someone saw… especially since this was He Wenshuo’s grandparents’ home.
Jiang Yinian’s toes curled in discomfort: Can’t you just go find me a pair of shoes?!
He Wenshuo sounded slightly disappointed: Alright.
Lunch had been overly lavish, so dinner was much simpler.
Grandma specially served a bowl of soup to Jiang Yinian and urged him to drink more.
Jiang Yinian wasn’t hungry after eating so much at noon and initially thought he wouldn’t be able to drink it. But after tasting it, he found the soup light and refreshingit didn’t seem to fill him up. Before he knew it, he had finished the whole bowl.
In their household, people rested early after dinner.
Grandma had only found out last minute that her eldest grandson was bringing a friend home, so she hadn’t had time to wash the bedsheets and quilts in the guest roomshe had only taken them out to air.
Since the guest was here, she instructed He Wenshuo: Let Nian Nian sleep in your room tonight. You can take the guest room next door.
Grandma, no need for that trouble.
He Wenshuo knew the guest room quilts had only been aired, not washed: Grandma, he can just share my room. We used to share a room before.
Jiang Yinian turned to look at He Wenshuo, blinking as if to ask, What are you up to?
He Wenshuo gave him an open, honest smile, explaining and assuring him: Don’t worry, my bed is big enough. It won’t be crowded even if we sleep together.
Jiang Yinian: … That didn’t seem to be the main issue here.
After dinner, He Wenshuo eagerly pulled Jiang Yinian upstairs, explaining along the way: This self-built house was constructed three years ago. My grandparents live on the first floor, and the rooms on the second floor are mostly empty.
He pointed them out one by one: Look, the room across is my aunt’s, the one next to it is my parents’ room, this one by the balcony is mine, and the two empty ones next to it are guest rooms reserved for other relatives and friends.
Even though they didn’t visit often, his grandparents kept their rooms well-maintained and usually didn’t let outsiders stay in them casually.
The room was indeed spacious. Jiang Yinian followed He Wenshuo into his room.
When the light switched on, the room lit upit had a bed, a desk, a sofa, a wardrobe, and even a small private bathroom.
He Wenshuo tilted his head to look at Jiang Yinian, waiting for his opinion: So, what do you think?
If he wasn’t satisfied, He Wenshuo would immediately take him to another room.
Jiang Yinian nodded: It’s alright.
The bed wasn’t smallat least two meters wideso it wouldn’t be cramped even with two people.
But once he lay down on the bed, his thoughts began to shift ever so slightly.
Jiang Yinian lay flat on his back, silently staring at the ceiling:
When they arrived in the morning, they were still just friends. Yet in the span of a single day, they were now sharing a bed by evening.
The progress felt too rapid, making him feel like he was dreaming.
He Wenshuo lay on his side, his eyes fixed unblinkingly on the contour of Jiang Yinian’s profile, unable to get enough of the sight.
Jiang Yinian couldn’t take it anymore and reached out to cover He Wenshuo’s eyes. Stop staring. Go to sleep.
He Wenshuo grinned widely. I want to look at you.
Jiang Yinian: What’s so interesting? It’s not like you just met me.
He Wenshuo nuzzled his nose against Jiang Yinian’s hand covering his eyes. You’re the most beautiful.
Could they even get any sleep like this?
Jiang Yinian pulled the blanket over He Wenshuo’s face. Sleep.
He Wenshuo agreed cheerfully. Alright, we’ll sleep now. I’ll listen to you in everything.
Since Jiang Yinian was willing to be with him, he was ready to follow Jiang Yinian’s lead in all matters from now on.
Jiang Yinian: Go sleep at the other end of the bed.
He Wenshuo:
The town had a pleasant environment, with a touch of coolness in the morning air.
Breakfast was scallion pancakes.
The golden, crispy pancakes paired with a special sauce and appetizing pickles were irresistibly fragrant.
Grandma was delighted to see Jiang Yinian eating so earnestly and appreciatively. We don’t have anything fancy here, just simple home-cooked meals. As long as you enjoy it.
She was being too modest. Jiang Yinian praised sincerely, The pancakes are truly delicious.
Homemade without being greasy yet exceptionally fragrantthey were nothing like the ones sold in shops. He usually couldn’t finish such a large pancake, but today’s was so good he couldn’t bring himself to put it down.
He Wenshuo watched quietly, feeling pleased. He had known Jiang Yinian would love itgood food always brightened his whole day.
Grandma’s smile widened. This is the only skill we have worth showing off. Later, we’re heading to the garden to water the vegetables. You two can stay home and play. Help yourselves to anything you want to eat or drink.
Don’t go, Grandma.
He Wenshuo remembered his mother’s instructions before they came. We’ll water the vegetables in the garden. You don’t need to worry about it.
Grandma: No need for you to work. Go have fun.
He Wenshuo: We have nothing else to do anyway. We’ve never seen a vegetable garden in the city. Watering the plants is pretty much like playing.
After some back-and-forth, Grandma and Grandpa couldn’t argue with He Wenshuo and finally agreed.
As soon as breakfast was over, He Wenshuo cheerfully led Jiang Yinian toward the vegetable garden.
He had adapted to his role as a boyfriend remarkably well, instinctively reaching for Jiang Yinian’s hand.
It was strangethey had held hands before, but it felt even better now that they were together.
Niannian, I like you so much.
Jiang Yinian felt that being with He Wenshuo wasn’t all that different whether they were dating or not.
They had always interacted this way.
Except before, He Wenshuo didn’t constantly voice his affection.
Can’t you talk about something else?
What else should I say? He Wenshuo replied. I’m afraid you won’t feel how much I like you.
Jiang Yinian could feel itbecause it had been constantly emphasized, he now understood it quite deeply, so he wanted to casually change the subject: How about talking about your grandfather’s vegetable garden?
Sure, the vegetable garden… In recent years, many people in the town have moved away, leaving their land unused. My grandfather thought, since it’s just sitting idle anyway, he might as well rent their abandoned plots to grow vegetables, raise chickens, ducks, geese, and even keep some fish.
They’re so capable.
Jiang Yinian had only ever enjoyed the finished products before; this was his first time seeing how all those delicious things were actually produced. Clearly, rural life wasn’t just about peaceful daysit also required hard work.
Yeah.
Walking along the narrow path, He Wenshuo swung Jiang Yinian’s hand cheerfully. My parents hired helpers in town specifically to assist my grandparents with the work. Actually, they’d prefer to bring my grandparents to live in the city, but the two of them refuse. They think living in the city isn’t as interesting as staying in this self-sufficient little courtyard.
Jiang Yinian nodded. It did seem quite interestingwith all those lively chickens, ducks, and geese, plus the fishpond.
He Wenshuo: Right? I think it’s really fun too. I loved coming here to play when I was little. I always wanted to bring you along, but you never agreed.
Thinking back now, if he could have brought Jiang Yinian here earlier, maybe they would have started dating sooner.
The vegetable garden wasn’t far, and they reached it while chatting.
He Wenshuo pulled open the simple wooden gate meant to keep the chickens and ducks from sneaking in to steal food, revealing the garden in its entirety.
It wasn’t particularly large, but it was well-organized, with many bamboo trellises supporting lush climbing vegetable vines of various kinds.
Jiang Yinian spotted cucumbers on the trellises, cherry tomatoes on the shorter plants, green and red peppers, and various leafy greens growing in neat square patches on the ground.
He Wenshuo hadn’t forgotten they came here to work. He pulled over a hose and said to Jiang Yinian, Pick whatever you want to eat, and I’ll wash it for you.
They say freshly picked vegetables taste especially good, but Jiang Yinian regretfully replied, I just ate.
Then we can eat later when we go back.
He Wenshuo held the hose to water the vegetables while mentally planning to show off his skills. I’ll cook lunch when we get back.
Jiang Yinian looked at him curiously. You learned how to cook?
If he remembered correctly, before summer vacation started, their kitchen skills were about equally basic.
He Wenshuo grinned. You’ll find out when we get back.
He had been studying very seriously lately.
Watering the entire garden took some time. Plus, with nothing else to do, the two of them sat in the garden for a while, casually selected some fresh vegetables to take back in a basket, and by the time they returned to the courtyard, it was almost 11 o’clock.
He Wenshuo entered the kitchen, carrying the vegetables in one hand and leading Jiang Ynian with the other.
The kitchen was spacious, equipped with both an old-fashioned wood-burning stove and a standard gas stove. It was fully stocked, with an entire cabinet dedicated to seasonings.
Having spent a lot of time in the kitchen recently, He Wenshuo was familiar with the setup. He rolled up his sleeves, ready to demonstrate what he’d learned.
I’ll handle the cooking. You sit farther away so you don’t get bothered by the oil fumes.
Jiang Yinian simply took some cherry tomatoes from the basket and went to wash them at the sink not far away.
The cherry tomatoes were all plump and roundthey had picked the best ones on their way back. There were different varieties, some red and some yellow.
Just to pass the time, Jiang Yinian washed them one by one, popping each into his mouth while observing He Wenshuo chop vegetables.
He Wenshuo was a beginner, lacking the smooth, swift knife skills of a professional chef. He sliced vegetables one cut at a time, resulting in uneven strips of varying sizes.
The cherry tomatoes were pleasantly sweet and tart.
Jiang Yinian asked, Why have you suddenly taken an interest in cooking?
Well, He Wenshuo teased lightly, finally having been asked the question. He looked seriously at Jiang Yinian and said, I want to improve my cooking skills, make food better than anyone else’s, so you’ll never want to replace me as your boyfriend. How about that?
Sounds good.
Jiang Yinian nodded, then took it a step further. By that logic, if I learn to cook myself, I won’t need a boyfriend in the future.
Niannian!
He Wenshuo instantly felt a sense of crisis. I think… cooking isn’t really for you.
Why not? I could learn if I tried.
Leave this kind of thing to me.
Jiang Yinian couldn’t stand looking at the unevenly chopped vegetables any longer. It doesn’t seem like it’s for you either. Maybe you should just give up.
Just like before, occasionally eating out was perfectly fineand much simpler.
He Wenshuo caught the underlying meaning in Jiang Yinian’s words and explained, I’ve only just started learning. Improvement takes practicedon’t rush me.
Jiang Yinian gently squeezed a cherry tomato and said softly, What I meant was, you don’t have to learn. Since I’ve agreed to be with you, I won’t be thinking about replacing you as my boyfriend anytime soon.
A wide grin spread across He Wenshuo’s face. He set down the kitchen knife, strode over to Jiang Yinian in a few steps, leaned down, and planted a quick kiss on his cheek.
I know. I like you the most.
Jiang Yinian wiped his cheek. There was no escaping itHe Wenshuo was clearly in high spirits, and this topic wasn’t going away anytime soon. If you’re going to learn, can’t you at least focus?
Who says I’m not focused?
He Wenshuo felt a little wronged. After finishing with the vegetables, he detoured to grab a spoon, passing by Jiang Yinian and leaning down to kiss his cheek again. Don’t worryeven if I’m multitasking, I won’t neglect either task.
Jiang Yian glanced toward the door. Aren’t you afraid someone might see?
He Wenshuo: Let them see. It’s a good chance to let everyone know we’re dating.
He planned to share the good news with his parents as soon as they got back.
Leisurely days always passed quickly. Before He Wenshuo had even mastered more than a handful of dishes, the start of the school semester was already approaching.
As soon as the two mentioned they would be leaving soon, their grandparents immediately sprang into action.
The kids had come to visit so rarelyhow could they let them leave empty-handed? So they gathered all kinds of fresh, unique local specialties, both edible and fun, from the area.
By the time everything was packed, it filled two large suitcases.
Jiang Yinian was stunned by the sheer amount of local goods.
Can we even carry all this?
We’ll try.
He Wenshuo also broke into a cold sweat internally, but these were his grandparents’ heartfelt giftsit would be impolite to refuse.
On their last night, He Wenshuo sat on the bed, unwilling to face reality, leaning against Jiang Yinian and muttering complaints.
Time went by so fastway too fast.
We kept saying we’d find time to go net-fishing, but we never did.
How did the new semester come so quickly? And we’re not even going to the same school.
Once school starts, I won’t get to be with you all day.
This is too hard. Why don’t we just stay here and live out our lives in this place?
There was no avoiding itJiang Yinian knew He Wenshuo was all talk and no action.
He pried off He Wenshuo, who was clinging to him like an oversized plush toy.
Let go of me. I’m going to take a shower.
He Wenshuo sat up straight, staring intently at Jiang Yinian. I want to shower too.
Go ahead, Jiang Yinian said. You can go after I’m done.
He Wenshuo: Let’s go together.
They had bathed together before, but strangely enough, after they started dating, they hadn’t done it again.
The bathroom door closed.
He Wenshuo wasn’t ready to give up. He followed and stood outside the bathroom door, knocking. Nian Nian, let me in. Let’s shower together.
There was no response from inside.
He Wenshuo looked down at himself, then knocked again. Let me in, or I’ll look like a creep standing out here.
This time, Jiang Yinian replied, And letting you in would make it less creepy?
It would be even creepier.
He Wenshuo knew that perfectly well, but he couldn’t suppress the wild thoughts racing through his mind. He knocked again.
I think I might have some potential as a pervert.
Huh?
I’m opening the door. I’m coming in.
Get out.
I promise I’ll behave and keep my distance.
You think I believe that?
Help me out here.
The journey back went smoothly.
As soon as Jiang Yinian got home, he curled up on the sofa. It had been fun being out, but nothing felt as comforting as being home.
He nestled into the couch, not wanting to move an inch.
He Wenshuo had more to do. He had to sort through all the things they’d brought back, and as usual, he set aside half to take to his parents’ place.
It ended up being quite a large bag.
He Wenshuo picked up the bag and glanced at Jiang Yinian. I’m heading over to my parents’ for a bit.
Bye.
Jiang Yinian lifted a hand from the sofa and waved.
He Wenshuo put the bag down, strode over, and brushed his lips against Jiang Yinian’s.
Wait for me to come back.
You don’t have to come back.
No, I’m definitely coming back.
Jiang Yinian’s lips twitched. Why did falling in love make everyone act so childish?
He Wenshuo carried the large bag back to his parents’ house, entered the passcode, and pushed the door open. He saw his father sitting on the living room sofa, looking at his tablet.
Dad, these are things Grandma and Grandpa asked me to bring for you.
Mm.
Father He responded, looked up at He Wenshuo, and then glanced at the large bag.
He Wenshuo brought the bag to the dining table, opened it, and neatly organized everythingputting what needed refrigeration in the fridge and what belonged in the cabinets in the cabinets.
Once he was done, he walked back to the living room and stole several glances at his father.
He was incredibly eager to share the news about his relationship with his family.
But he wasn’t sure how they would react. Would they approve?
Jiang Yinian was such a great person, and his parents already knew him. There was no reason for them to object.
Still, He Wenshuo felt anxious. But he had to say it, so he mustered his courage and spoke up.
Dad.
Dad, Nian Nian and I are dating!
Even if his family didn’t approve, it wouldn’t matter. He had worked too hard for this relationship, and there was no way he was breaking up.
Absolutely not.
At worst, he’d get a beatingor several.
The living room fell silent.
He Wenshuo stared intently at his father, desperate for a response.
Father He continued looking at his tablet without even raising his eyes. Oh.
Oh?
He Wenshuo was filled with confusion. This wasn’t the reaction he had expected. Did oh mean he understood? He swallowed nervously and cautiously spoke again. Dad, I said Nian Nian and I are dating. Don’t you have anything you want to ask?
Father He: No.
He Wenshuo:
Logically speaking, his father should have raised objections, gotten angry, scolded him, or even hit him… So why had he accepted it so calmly now?
His father was truly open-minded! The best father he had ever known.
Click—a door opened from the side of the living room.
Mother He emerged from the bedroom wearing a facial mask and noticed her son had returned: Son, you’re back. How are your grandparents doing lately? Did you have a good summer break?
They’re doing well. They said you should visit and stay for a while when you have time off. I had a great summer too.
Mother He: That’s good to hear.
He Wenshuo took a quiet deep breath, fixed his gaze on his mother, and repeated his earlier confession: Mom, I’m dating Niannian.
Mother He adjusted her facial mask, her tone unchanged: Oh? That’s nice.
He Wenshuo fell into genuine silence for a moment. He glanced at his father on the sofa, then at his understanding mother, and couldn’t help voicing his confusion: Dad, Mom, aren’t you opposed to me dating Niannian?
Not opposed.
Mother He smiled and pointed toward one side of the living room. Your aunt sent over two boxes of fruit a couple days ago. Take them to share with Niannian.
He Wenshuo fell silent again. He looked at his father, then turned to his mother, decided not to press further, picked up the fruit, and tactfully made his exit.
Whatever. As long as they weren’t opposed, his mission was accomplished—he’d told them.
In the living room, Mother He walked onto the balcony, misted some water on the leaves of potted plants, and glanced out the window just in time to see her son hurriedly exiting the building.
She turned her gaze back inside and looked at Father He, who had been staring at his tablet: Still looking? How long has it been since you last turned the page?
Father He put down the tablet and cursed: That damn kid.
Mother He remained much calmer: Haven’t we been expecting this day for a long time?
To be honest, the signs had appeared very early.
Mother He was quite popular in their neighborhood and often heard neighbors talk about their teenage children.
Some were addicted to video games, some were puppy-love chasing after girls, some had sudden personality changes and ran away from home after conflicts with their families… In short, every teenager had their own struggles.
Back then, Mother He and Father He had felt relieved—their own son was different. Whether he was going through puberty or not, he remained the same carefree, straightforward kid, never clashing with the family and always speaking his mind.
But that relief didn’t last long.
Soon, the couple began noticing something unusual about their son.
The reason was simple: their son was terrible at keeping things to himself. He chattered constantly every day, yet at the dinner table, he never mentioned games, girls, classmates, or teachers—only one person.
Jiang Yinian.
What Jiang Yinian wore today, how Jiang Yinian fell asleep in class, how Jiang Yinian did poorly on an exam, what food Jiang Yinian said was tasty, what Jiang Yinian planned to do tomorrow, what Jiang Yinian liked best… Every other sentence—no, almost every sentence—revolved around Jiang Yinian.
Once or twice could be considered normal, but when it happened every single day, they couldn’t keep deceiving themselves into thinking it was just ordinary friendship.
Finally, one day, Father He slammed his chopsticks down at the dinner table and snapped, Is Jiang Yinian the only friend you have at school?
He Wenshuo calmly corrected, No, but he is my best friend. I want to spend less time with others and more time with him. I just want to follow him every day.
Father He was so angry that he skipped his meal that day and stayed in the study all day without coming out.
Later, Mother He noticed that her son had started saving money excessively—not for the family, but for himself.
He stopped wearing custom-made clothes, no longer bought limited-edition sneakers, and even refrained from spending money on in-game purchases. All the money saved from his living expenses and pocket money was deposited into a single card.
No one knew what he was planning or what he intended to do with the savings.
After all, he was still a minor, and it was impossible not to worry.
Unable to set her mind at ease, and relying on their always good mother-son relationship, Mother He chose a suitable evening to have a heart-to-heart talk with her son, asking him why he was saving money so diligently.
He Wenshuo hadn’t expected his money-saving efforts to be discovered so quickly. He tried to dodge the question with vague answers but eventually realized he couldn’t avoid it and had to confess honestly.
Jiang Yinian’s parents are both abroad, and he said he might go abroad in the future too.
I want to go with him.
When we were kids, you wouldn’t let me go find him. I’m sure you won’t let me in the future either, so I have to save up on my own.
For a moment, Mother He felt a mix of complex emotions. After a long silence, she simply patted her son’s shoulder, sighed inwardly, and found herself unable to say anything.
The start of the school year arrived with unexpected haste. Even though they knew the date in advance, it still felt abrupt and rushed.
The new semester brought a new class schedule.
After studying it, Jiang Yinian realized—what a coincidence—both he and He Wenshuo had an 8 a.m. class on the first day of school.
Since returning to the city, He Wenshuo had been sent back to live at his own home in the evenings.
Once school started, their mornings became even more rushed—they could only meet briefly, share a quick meal, and then part ways to head to their respective schools.
He Wenshuo felt completely drained of energy. He thought he needed to hug Jiang Yinian tightly and take a few deep breaths just to recharge.
On the first day of class, everyone arrived at the classroom quite early, so they happily began sharing stories from their summer break.
He Wenshuo didn’t feel like talking—today’s class felt unbearably long.
Tao Hao leaned over curiously, poked He Wenshuo, and showed him his phone, asking, Excuse me, He, is this the reason you broke up with your girlfriend?
He Wenshuo looked up and saw the photo on Tao Hao’s phone—it was a shot from when he and Jiang Yinian had attended a concert together. In the picture, their noses were almost touching, looking unusually intimate. Unfortunately, he still didn’t photograph well and seemed completely mismatched next to Jiang Yinian.
Tao Hao pressed further, He?
He Wenshuo replied absentmindedly, Maybe.
Tao Hao took a deep breath and exclaimed, You—you—you! You were already dating someone, yet you were getting cozy with a guy? You’re such a scumbag! I don’t even want to admit we’re friends anymore!