Chapter Fifty-Six: Romance Runs Aground, Old Affections Nowhere to Be Found

After they left, she collapsed limply onto the table, lost in thought.

Yesterday, she saw a post online poking fun at English textbooks, and it instantly struck a nostalgic chord in her. Back then, the affectionate Li Lei and Han Meimei in the English textbooks were the first impression of romantic love for many adolescents just beginning to understand such feelings. Although the artist repeatedly emphasized there was nothing between them, everyone still chose to believe otherwise. But in the updated textbooks, Han Meimei married—not to Li Lei, though he had become quite successful. Han Meimei’s husband was named Han Gang, her youthful student haircut replaced by a mature and stylish look as she bustled about the kitchen, caring for her two children.

Staring at the computer screen, Xiaoxiao was dazed. Han Meimei, who had once been her age, was now a mother, while she herself still drifted aimlessly. Later, a song appeared, its lyrics mourning this youthful memory: It’s a pity neither Li Lei nor Han Meimei could hold each other’s hand; we all ended up with futures we never imagined. At least Polly still lives on, like the small happiness we once cherished.

She wondered whether Li Lei, in sleepless nights, felt grateful that his Platonic love hadn’t drowned in a jar of rice, or if he trembled, asking, “How can I smile at your happy life again?”

They were all people mocked by memories and abandoned by time. Before their light extinguished, they could still meet once more—romance stranded, old joys vanished.

The mirror-like wall reflected her despair; she barely recognized herself. Forcing herself upright, she comforted her reflection: “Baby, I’m sorry I made you so exhausted. Just hold on a little longer, then… live well.” She packed up her things and rushed to the hospital.

The more one fears something, the more likely it comes to pass. At the event in Daguan Tower, Xiaoxiao regretted not feigning illness to avoid attending. Lin Shuo had been invited and now stood nearby, enjoying Manager Huang’s obsequious praise. Zeng Ziyu, bored, glanced around and, spotting her, made a point of informing Lin Shuo, who merely nodded politely, impeccable in his manners.

Manager Huang fancied himself skilled at pleasing others. He beckoned Xiaoxiao over, casting a suggestive glance between the two and complimenting, “President Lin, Xiaoxiao worked really hard on this project. Look, she’s so busy she’s lost weight.”

“Cough, cough.” Zeng Ziyu cleared his throat and, ever opportunistic, drew Manager Huang away: “Why don’t you show me around? I’m quite interested.” Manager Huang, never one to refuse a lucrative opportunity, immediately nodded and led Zeng Ziyu away.

The lake glimmered, willows trailed, and the event at Daguan Tower was bustling. The advantage of group dating was endless choice; men and women waited everywhere for romance to bloom. If things didn’t click, one could simply move on; if sparks flew, a boat ride across the lake was in order. Everyone seized their chance, striking decisively.

“Long time no see. I thought you wouldn’t come today,” Xiaoxiao greeted him with a smile. The more she avoided him, the more she knew she had something to hide. She didn’t want him to look down on her again.

He replied sarcastically, “Were you hoping I’d come?”

“You’re the investor—it’s your right to attend or not. But it’s better if you do; at least you can see where your money’s going.”

“Is that so?” He seemed confident. “I figured you wouldn’t dare to pocket my money, though you all certainly love it.”

Lonely Moments, Chapter Fifty-Six: Romance Stranded, Old Joys Vanished. Update complete!