Chapter 5

The Emotional Choice Lin Xiaoxiao sat in her small apartment, the moonlight outside the window spilling over her. Her mood, however, was far from as tranquil as the night. Sophie's appearance was like a stone thrown into her once calm heart, stirring up ripples. Lu Tingshen was alone in his study, holding a book recommended by Lin Xiaoxiao, but his mind was not on the words. He knew that Sophie's appearance had caused Lin Xiaoxiao considerable distress, and he needed to find a way to resolve this issue. The next day, Lin Xiaoxiao went to the library as usual, but her mind was clearly not on her work. Her colleagues noticed her unusual demeanor, but no one dared to disturb her contemplation. Lu Tingshen arrived at the library early, standing at the entrance, waiting for Lin Xiaoxiao to appear. When he saw her figure, he walked over. "Miss Lin, can we talk?" His tone was softer than usual. Lin Xiaoxiao looked up, meeting Lu Tingshen's eyes, and saw his sincerity. "Alright, Mr. Lu." They went to the library's lounge area, and Lu Tingshen spoke first. "About yesterday, I'm very sorry. Sophie's actions were not my intention." Lin Xiaoxiao took a deep breath. "I know, but I'm starting to doubt whether we are really suited to be friends." Lu Tingshen was silent for a moment, then said seriously, "I understand your concerns, but I don't want our friendship to be affected by others' opinions." Lin Xiaoxiao looked at him, feeling his sincerity, but her heart was still full of hesitation. "Give me some time, Mr. Lu," she said softly. Lu Tingshen nodded. "I'll wait for you." In the days that followed, Lu Tingshen did not contact Lin Xiaoxiao proactively. He respected her decision, giving her enough space to think. During this time, Lin Xiaoxiao constantly reflected on her feelings for Lu Tingshen. One evening, Lin Xiaoxiao was walking home alone, feeling unusually heavy-hearted. Suddenly, she saw the light from a small bookstore and walked in, hoping to find some answers in the world of books. In the bookstore, she casually flipped through books until one about friendship and love caught her attention. She sat down and began to read. The story in the book deeply moved her, making her realize that true friendship and love are not influenced by external factors. At that moment, Lu Tingshen also walked into the bookstore. He saw Lin Xiaoxiao sitting in the corner and quietly walked over, sitting opposite her. "Miss Lin, I like this book too," he said, pointing to the book in Lin Xiaoxiao's hands. Lin Xiaoxiao looked up, surprised to see Lu Tingshen, but also feeling a touch of warmth. "Mr. Lu, I think I have found the answer," she said with a smile. Lu Tingshen looked at her, his eyes full of anticipation. "What is it?" "I'm willing to be your friend, no matter what others think," Lin Xiaoxiao said firmly. A relieved smile appeared on Lu Tingshen's face. "That's the best news I've heard in a long time." They sat in the bookstore for a long time, talking about books, life, and the future. In that small space, their hearts communicated and merged. When they walked out of the bookstore, the moonlight shone on them, illuminating their smiles. They knew that their friendship had transcended everything, becoming the most precious part of their lives. And their story continued to flow warmly under the moonlight...