Colorful years

Afterwards, still feeling quite pleased with themselves, the two headed excitedly towards a nearby bookstore. The bookstore, located on a street corner, was small but filled with a rich aroma of books.

Sunlight streamed through the windows and fell on the wooden floor, creating dappled patterns of light and shadow.

Knowing Congcong's preferences intimately, Ms. Xu Lu quickly navigated the dazzling array of bookshelves. Her gaze swept swiftly over the neatly arranged books, her fingers gently tracing their spines, as if engaging in a silent dialogue with them.

Finally, her gaze settled on a few books—a number of excellent books suitable for Congcong's reading. These books covered a variety of fields, including science fiction novels full of fantasy, literary classics with profound philosophical insights, and popular science books that could stimulate thinking.

Upon receiving the books he had long desired, Congcong's face immediately lit up with an ecstatic smile.

His eyes shone with excitement, like the brightest stars in the night sky. He held the books carefully, as if they were the most precious treasures in the world.

His fingers gently stroked the book cover, feeling its slightly rough texture, and his heart was filled with joy. He felt as if he had obtained a rare treasure, and he couldn't wait to rush home and immerse himself in the ocean of knowledge.

Standing to the side, Teacher Xu Lu quietly watched Congcong's excited expression, and a feeling of indescribable joy welled up in her heart.

Her eyes were filled with relief and satisfaction. Seeing Congcong's delighted expression, she felt that everything she had done was worthwhile. A warm smile appeared on her lips, as beautiful and captivating as a flower blooming in spring.

And so, time slipped away quietly amidst laughter and joy. Before we knew it, night had fallen, and the city lights were coming on. The entire city was shrouded in a veil of mystery, and the streetlights, like strings of glittering pearls, adorned the city in a dreamlike and enchanting way.

Despite this, Ms. Xu Lu and Cong Cong were completely unaware of the fleeting time, still immersed in this fulfilling and joyful moment.

They stayed in the bookstore for a long time, and only left reluctantly when the bookstore staff reminded them that it was almost closing time.

Stepping out of the bookstore, they found the world outside had changed dramatically. A gentle night breeze blew by, bringing a touch of coolness.

Pedestrians hurried along the street, rushing home. But Teacher Xu Lu and Congcong strolled leisurely, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the night.

Finally, when they realized it was getting late, they reluctantly ended their wonderful journey, carrying with them a wealth of experiences, and embarked on their way home.

Throughout the journey, they continued to laugh and enjoy the wonderful time. For Congcong, this birthday was one of the most unforgettable memories of his life.

More than once, in the quiet of the night, Congcong silently questioned himself: Was the ardent and intense favoritism that Teacher Xu Lu showed him merely a teacher's way of expressing kindness and care for her favorite student, or had it already crossed the line of pure affection that should exist between ordinary teachers and students?

He was utterly confused, as if he were in a fog, unable to discern the truth.

In Congcong's heart, Ms. Xu Lu is a special person. She not only gave him a lot of help and guidance in his studies, but also cared for him a lot in his life.

She always listened patiently to his troubles and confusion, and offered him valuable advice and opinions.

Her smile was as warm as the sun, and her words as gentle as a spring breeze. However, it was precisely this special emotion that plunged Congcong into deep confusion.

In contrast, his own feelings for Teacher Xu Lu were much simpler and clearer. It was nothing more than a younger brother's dependence and closeness to his older sister, or a student's heartfelt respect and love for his teacher.

Apart from that, he never dared to let his thoughts wander further, nor did he dare to have any other improper thoughts.

Congcong is a sensible child. He knows his family situation and understands his responsibilities and obligations. His parents work hard in that peaceful and quiet small county town, and they have devoted a lot of effort and sweat to supporting his schooling.

He knew he couldn't let his parents down, nor could he forget where his roots lay. Therefore, he studied diligently, hoping to return home as soon as possible to repay his parents for raising him.

Moreover, after graduation, he had already made up his mind not to stay in this bustling metropolis. Instead, he would resolutely embark on the journey back to his hometown, the peaceful and tranquil small county where he was born and raised.

Because there, his elderly and frail parents were eagerly awaiting his return to fulfill his filial duties. Therefore, dating during college was never part of his life plan.

In Congcong's heart, family always comes first. He knows that his parents have sacrificed so much for him, and he hopes to make his parents live a happy life through his own efforts.

He understands his responsibilities and mission, and is clear about his choices and direction. He will not selfishly consider only personal gains and losses.

Therefore, he will not be misled by the current prosperity and temptations, but will firmly move towards his goal.

As for his future partner, he already had a clear range in mind—either the gentle and kind Li Hua, or the understanding A Ling. Unless these two beauties made their own choice first, he would never set his sights on any other girl.