Li Xia's New Role

The morning light filtered through the wooden shutters of Li Xia's small room, illuminating the patchwork quilt on her bed. Li Xia stood in front of the mirror in her small room, her reflection staring back at her with an intensity she hadn't known she possessed.

The script for her new role was sprawled across her desk, its edges marked with her handwritten notes. The opportunity had come faster than she expected—a supporting role as the second female lead in a promising TV drama directed by a newcomer, whose earlier projects had already garnered critical acclaim. It was a stepping stone, but it felt like the weight of the world rested on her shoulders.

It was her last morning in Xiaolong before she left for shoot for a month that could change her life forever. Her bags sat neatly packed in the corner, a quiet testament to the determination that had brought her this far.

The door creaked open, and Li Mei entered, her steps light but sure. Despite her blindness, Li Mei carried herself with an air of quiet authority that never failed to calm Li Xia.

"Xia, are you ready?" Li Mei asked softly, her head tilted as though she could sense her sister's unease.

Li Xia turned, forcing a smile. "As ready as I'll ever be. I just… I don't know if I can do this."

Li Mei reached out, her hand finding Li Xia's. Her grip was firm but comforting. "You've been preparing for this moment for years, whether you realize it or not. Doubt is natural, but it's not what defines you. Your passion, your drive—those will shine through."

Li Xia felt tears prick the corners of her eyes but blinked them away. "Thank you, Mei. I just don't want to let anyone down."

Before Li Mei could respond, Li Jun burst into the room, his energy filling the space like sunlight. "What's this I hear about doubts? You? Li Xia? The same girl who used to boss me around when we were kids? You've got this, Xia. And if anyone gives you trouble, just say the word. Your little brother will sort them out."

Li Xia laughed, her tension easing. "Thanks, Jun. But I think I'll handle it myself."

"Just remember," Li Jun said, grinning, "if they don't appreciate your talent, it's their loss. But seriously, Xia, we're proud of you. Don't forget that."

The siblings spent the next hour packing the last of Li Xia's things, their banter easing the weight of her impending departure. Li Xia carefully folded her clothes while Li Jun stuffed snacks into her bag, insisting she'd need them for the long train ride.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, Li Xia found herself standing at the village gate, her suitcase by her side. A small group of villagers had gathered to see her off, their well-wishes warming her heart.

"Li Xia," an elderly woman called, her wrinkled face breaking into a smile, "make us proud, eh? Show them what Xiaolong is made of."

"I will, Auntie," Li Xia promised, her voice steady despite the lump in her throat.

Li Mei and Li Jun stood by her side, their presence grounding her.

"Remember," Li Mei said, her tone gentle but firm, "the city may be big and overwhelming, but your heart knows the way. Stay true to yourself."

Li Xia hugged her sister tightly, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "I will, Mei. Thank you for always believing in me."

Li Jun clapped her on the shoulder, his grin wide. "Go on, Xia. Take the world by storm. And don't forget to write!"

With one last look at her family and the village she called home, Li Xia boarded the train. As it pulled away, she watched Xiaolong shrink into the distance, her emotions a swirling mix of anticipation and nostalgia.

The city loomed ahead, its skyline a stark contrast to the rolling hills and quiet streets of her hometown. Li Xia clenched her fists, determination coursing through her veins. This was her chance to leap forward, to chase her dreams with everything she had.

And though the path ahead was uncertain, she knew one thing for sure—she wasn't just doing this for herself. She was carrying the hopes and dreams of Xiaolong with her.