Arc 1(7)

After ending the call, Feng Li's thoughts were preoccupied with the anticipation of the upcoming date with Yu Xin. However, before he could fully indulge in those thoughts, his practical nature took over, reminding him of his other responsibilities. He headed to the kitchen to cook his dinner, the clinking of pots and pans filling the air with a soothing rhythm. The aroma of his favorite dishes wafted through the apartment, making the mundane task feel somehow comforting.

Savoring each bite, Feng Li relished the taste of his homemade meal. The flavors mingled on his palate, bringing a sense of contentment. With his hunger satiated, he proceeded to the next task on his agenda - completing his assignment. The study room became his sanctuary, the soft glow of the desk lamp illuminating the pages of his work. Focused and diligent, he delved into the subject matter, ensuring every detail was meticulously crafted to perfection.

Late into the night, when the rest of the world was slumbering, Feng Li finally finished his assignment. Feeling a mix of accomplishment and relief, he closed his laptop and stretched his tired limbs. He made his way to the bedroom, the soft carpet under his feet offering a comforting sensation. As he lay down on the plush mattress, a sense of tranquility washed over him, and he soon succumbed to the embrace of sleep.

The next morning, the sun painted the horizon with hues of pink and gold, heralding the beginning of a new day. Feng Li greeted the morning with a renewed sense of excitement. He got ready for the day, carefully choosing his school uniform, his fingers meticulously adjusting the tie to perfection. His reflection in the mirror revealed a composed and confident young man, ready to face the world.

With a determined step, he set off on his way to Yu Xin's apartment. The city streets bustled with life, yet Feng Li remained focused on the journey ahead. Upon reaching Yu Xin's apartment building, he leaned against a wall, his heart beating with anticipation. The seconds seemed to stretch into eternity as he waited for his beloved to appear.

Finally, Yu Xin emerged from the building, and Feng Li's eyes instantly lit up at the sight of him. Time seemed to pause for a moment as their gazes locked, and then, in a heartbeat, Yu Xin was running towards him, a radiant smile lighting up his face. Feng Li's heart swelled with affection, and as Yu Xin stood before him, he couldn't resist leaning down and pecking him gently on the lips.

Taking Yu Xin's bag, he shouldered the weight without a second thought, his hand instinctively entwining with Yu Xin's. The simple act of holding hands brought them closer, their love conveyed through the touch of their fingers.

As Feng Li and Yu Xin approached the school grounds, the animated chatter and excitement of students drew them closer to a gathering on the side. Yu Xin's curiosity was piqued, and he couldn't resist exploring the source of the commotion, prompting Feng Li to accompany him.

As they approached the crowd, their eyes were immediately drawn to a heartwarming yet awkward scene. Jiang You, with a striking bouquet of red roses in hand, stood before Song Jin, his heart on his sleeve as he bravely professed his feelings.

"Xiao Jin, I like you at first sight, will you date me?" Jiang You's voice trembled with nervous anticipation.

However, Song Jin's eyes were momentarily fixated on Feng Li and Yu Xin, who were quietly observing the spectacle. It was as if Song Jin had sensed their presence, adding an intriguing twist to the already tense situation.

Unfazed by the crowd's attention, Song Jin's response came with surprising honesty and gentleness, "I'm sorry, Jiang You, I already have someone I like."

Jiang You couldn't hide his disappointment, pressing further, "Who is it? Tell me!"

Without hesitation, Song Jin pointed towards Feng Li, acknowledging his true feelings, "It's... Feng Li."

Upon hearing his name, Feng Li's expression remained calm and composed, but inside, he couldn't help but feel Yu Xin's trembling hand in his own. In that moment, Feng Li knew that Yu Xin was worried he might leave him for someone else. To quell those fears, he tightened his grip on Yu Xin's hand, silently assuring him of his steadfast love.

Undeterred by the rejection, Song Jin stepped away from Jiang You's side and approached Feng Li with genuine sincerity. He took a deep breath and mustered the courage to confess, "Student Feng, I like you, please date me."

Feng Li listened attentively, but there was a resolute determination in his response, "I already have a lover, and that person is Yu Xin. Even if I were single, I still would not date you because your personality and character are so fake, and I cannot stand it."

His words were firm and honest, leaving no room for ambiguity. Feng Li had chosen Yu Xin with his whole heart, and he was unyielding in his loyalty.

With Yu Xin at his side, Feng Li turned away from Song Jin without sparing another glance.

It was already widely known among the students at the school that he and Yu Xin had started dating only yesterday. In spite of this, Song Jin came to him today to confess to him.

In the secluded corner of the school, away from prying eyes, Feng Li held Yu Xin in a tender embrace, trying to calm his trembling form. His endearment, "baby," was laced with concern as he tried to understand the reason behind Yu Xin's distress.

As tears streamed down Yu Xin's face, he remained silent, his voice stifled by fear and a deep-seated lack of self-esteem. Feng Li gently wiped away the tears, trying to soothe his lover's troubled emotions. But Yu Xin's tears seemed endless, causing a pang of sadness to flicker in Feng Li's heart.

"Why are you such a crybaby?", Feng Li's gentle tease was an attempt to lighten the mood, but it was evident that Yu Xin's feelings ran much deeper than mere emotional sensitivity.

With red, teary eyes, Yu Xin struggled to express his thoughts, "You don't like me at all, you like Song Jin, right?"

The assumption struck Feng Li like a painful blow. His face softened with understanding, and he questioned Yu Xin with tenderness, "What are you saying, baby? Obviously, I like you. I never gave that person a single glance, nor do I ever interact with him. So, why are you thinking that I like him?"

Yu Xin hesitated, his words barely audible, "Because you are the... " but he stopped, his voice faltering before he could complete the sentence.

Feng Li leaned in closer, urging him gently, "Yes, I am?"

The weight of Yu Xin's insecurities was palpable, and Feng Li's heart ached to ease his lover's pain. "I just know you'll like him!" Yu Xin finally confessed, his self-confidence at its lowest.

Feng Li's heart sank at the realization of how deeply Yu Xin doubted their love. His voice softened even more as he asked, "Then how do I show you that I like, no, love you?"

A small glimmer of hope appeared in Yu Xin's tearful eyes. "You don't talk and see him again," he stated, a mix of vulnerability and determination in his voice.

Feng Li's response was immediate, a promise made with unwavering devotion, "I have never talked to him before, but if this is what my baby wants, I promise you I won't see him again."

The simple assurance seemed to lift a heavy burden from Yu Xin's heart, and a spark of life returned to his once-dull eyes. Feng Li held him closer, enveloping him in love and warmth, vowing silently to prove his commitment to Yu Xin every day.

After the heartfelt confession and their renewed sense of love and commitment, the couple found themselves wrapped in the enchanting cocoon of love once more. Their affectionate gestures and tender glances towards each other were like a beautiful dance of love that everyone around them couldn't help but notice and admire.

As the school day continued, the two lovebirds had to part ways and head to their respective classrooms. Feng Li watched Yu Xin with a smile, his heart still brimming with adoration, as his lover walked away with his best friend, Yang Xi. The anticipation of seeing Yu Xin again during the break made Feng Li's heart skip a beat.

When the break finally arrived, Feng Li quickly made his way to the cafeteria, his eyes eagerly searching for the familiar sight of Yu Xin. Spotting him coming in with Yang Xi, Feng Li walked up to them with a warm smile, feeling a sense of pride knowing that Yu Xin was his. He invited Yu Xin to sit with him as he graciously bought food for all three of them.

After the brief meal, Feng Li suggested they spend the break in the serene school garden, where the soft rustling of leaves and the gentle fragrance of blossoms enveloped them. Yang Xi, understanding that the couple needed some private time, went to his own classroom, leaving Feng Li and Yu Xin to enjoy each other's company.

With the sun shining brightly overhead, Feng Li found a secluded spot under the comforting shade of a grand old tree. He tenderly pulled Yu Xin down to sit on his lap, relishing the feeling of having his lover so close. One arm lovingly wrapped around Yu Xin's small, delicate waist, while the other held Yu Xin's soft hand, caressing it gently. The sensation of their intertwined fingers sent a wave of warmth through Feng Li's heart, making him feel utterly content.

Yu Xin leaned back against Feng Li's chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heart. The peaceful atmosphere, the gentle touch, and the assurance of Feng Li's love all combined to create an overwhelming sense of serenity. The warmth and comfort enveloping him made Yu Xin feel safe and loved, and a sense of tranquility washed over him.

In the midst of this peaceful moment, Yu Xin's eyes began to feel heavy. The rhythmic caresses and the comforting embrace lulled him into a state of drowsiness. With complete trust in Feng Li, he allowed himself to succumb to the gentle pull of sleep, feeling secure in the knowledge that Feng Li would keep him safe.

As Yu Xin dozed off, Feng Li continued to hold him close, cherishing every moment they spent together. The school garden around them seemed to come alive with vibrant colors as if nature itself was painting a picture of their love. The gentle breeze whispered sweet secrets, and the rustling leaves provided a soothing soundtrack to their love story.

Under the shade of the ancient tree, two hearts beat as one, surrounded by the beauty of the moment. It was a scene so idyllic; it could have been lifted from the pages of a romantic novel. And as time seemed to slow down, Feng Li gazed down at his slumbering lover with an overwhelming sense of love and devotion.