"I'm sorry, I just came to have breakfast with you all," she said as she walked out.
Xu Nancheng and Lin Menghan both sighed in relief. However, Xu Nancheng did not give up on questioning Lin Menghan; after all, he remembered the dream from last night very clearly.
"What's going on, Lin Menghan?" He asked gently, despite the questioning tone.
Lin Menghan felt caught. She had only intended to take a quick look, but somehow ended up falling asleep.
"What should I do? What should I do? Do you believe me if I say I was sleepwalking?"
Xu Nancheng didn’t respond; he just tilted his head and stared at her, as if to say, "Do you really think I believe that?"
"You two! Breakfast is ready!" The older voice called out. As one ages, it seems that as long as food is served, if someone doesn’t show up after a while, they will receive another invitation—though this time the tone might be more serious.
"Okay!" Lin Menghan replied from outside.
She glanced at Xu Nancheng, tossed her hair playfully, and smiled, "Alright, Nancheng! It's time to eat!"
Xu Nancheng didn’t press further; given her attitude, it was clear that whatever happened was related to her. He realized that asking more wouldn’t yield any useful information.
He helped Lin Menghan, who was a bit unsteady on her feet, and they made their way to the dining table where several people were eating.
Grandma chatted away while eating, "You’ve only been away from school for a few days, right? You’re in your senior year now; you all need to work hard and get into a good university. That way, we can all have some pride."
Every elder hopes for their children to have a bright future; the idea of gaining face is often just a casual remark.
"Yeah, I’ll work hard," Xu Nancheng replied casually.
"Hey Nancheng! Which university do you want to apply to?" Lin Menghan blinked her eyes at him.
"Shu University, I guess! It's close to home and my scores are enough."
"Shu University?" Lin Menghan repeated thoughtfully. After a moment of silence, she added, "That’s fine! But have you thought about applying to an even better school?"
"Well... never mind," Xu Nancheng quickly shook his head. "It's closer to home. They say it only takes three hours by train."
"No way! I think Tsinghua or Peking University would suit you better! Or at least Ha Da! Think about it!"
"No way, no way, I’m going to Shu University." Xu Nancheng shook his head without hesitation.
In fact, with his abilities, getting into Tsinghua or Peking University would be a piece of cake. He had no particular reason for choosing Shu University; it was simply closer to home.
"Yu University! Yu University is good too! It's even closer!"
"Lin Menghan, why do I feel like you’re trying to stop me from going to Shu University?"
"I’m not! Just think about it some more, Nancheng! Please!" She held onto Xu Nancheng's arm and shook it playfully.
To be honest, Xu Nancheng was swayed; he couldn’t resist the charm of such a cute girl. But after hesitating for just a few seconds, he quickly shook his head. "No, Lin Menghan, stop being cute. My grandparents are watching." He whispered the last part, feeling his face flush.
Hearing this, Lin Menghan seemed to snap out of her daze and immediately let go of him, sitting up straight.
"Alright, alright, let’s focus on eating. We can talk about this after the exam," Xu Mingzhong interjected at that moment, having observed their interaction closely.
After finishing their meal, the group sat on a cool bench outside. This type of bench was quite common in rural areas; it was akin to a sofa.
"Are you planning to head to the city the day after tomorrow?" Xia Mei asked.
Xu Nancheng looked at Lin Menghan, who was nodding vigorously. Even though her hair was tied in a ponytail, it bounced with enthusiasm.
Lin Menghan wanted to play here a bit longer.
"Yeah," Xu Nancheng replied with a slight nod.
The two spent several joyful days together, deepening their bond. Xu Nancheng found himself caring more about this girl.
"Goodbye, Grandma and Grandpa!" Lin Menghan called out sweetly, her voice tinged with reluctance as she waved goodbye.
"Take care! Come visit us when you have time!"
"Okay!"
Only then did they reluctantly leave. During this time, Xu Nancheng received a call from Xu Wenzhao. It turned out that he and Chen Yi had been recognized for their bravery in saving someone.
He guessed there would be speeches at the Opening Ceremony.
As for who would speak, it depended on the discussion among the three of them. Lin Menghan was aware of this and began to formulate a plan in her mind. So, while on the city bus, she pulled Chen Yi and Xu Dong into a group chat.
【Xu Meng: Brother Chen Yi, is Brother Xu Dong there?】
【Both: Yes! We're here. Just call us, and we'll be there!】
She bit her lip, filled with countless emotions. Without voicing her thoughts, she continued typing.
【Xu Meng: Did you guys receive the notification about the act of bravery?】
The two confirmed they had received it.
【Xu Meng: So there's going to be a speech afterward, right? Could you let Nancheng take your place?】
The two were puzzled; how could Xu Nancheng possibly go on stage in his condition? Asking him to speak would be like setting him up for failure!
No way! Absolutely not!
【Xu Meng: How about I bring each of you a cup of milk tea?】
The two hesitated for a moment, but still shook their heads.
【Xu Meng: Then how about those two cups?】
Both replied: Deal!
It was decisive and straightforward, without a hint of hesitation.
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