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Regarding Zhu Xingyao’s condition, Jiang Tu had learned a great deal from Zhu Yunping and had even spoken to her psychologist several times. The latent period for PTSD—post-traumatic stress disorder—can range from weeks to months. At first, Zhu Xingyao only experienced nightmares and insomnia, along with severe emotional distress. Later, when she played the cello, her hands began to tremble, making it impossible for her to continue performing. As a result, between 2014 and 2015, she disappeared almost entirely from public view.
Most people with PTSD recover, but a minority develop chronic symptoms. After two years of psychological treatment, the trauma Zhu Xingyao endured had transformed into something chronic that no longer significantly impacted her daily life or work. However, she was too kind-hearted, trapping herself in guilt. She couldn’t forget how Jiang Yue had hysterically demanded compensation for her unborn child.
She avoided stairwells, stayed away from pregnant women, and even refrained from interacting much with children, believing this kept her within a “safe zone.”
This behavior, however, was still a form of avoidance—it wasn’t true recovery.
Zhu Xingyao stood frozen, never having imagined what Jiang Tu might look like holding a baby. Now, he cradled his one-year-old niece in his arms, an unexpected yet harmonious sight. The little girl was tugging at his glasses, and realizing this, Zhu Xingyao quickly ran over.
She gently grabbed her niece’s hand: “Yiyi, don’t break it…”
Yiyi twisted her head, babbling angrily and refusing to return the glasses.
Just as the eldest cousin moved to intervene, Jiang Tu turned to him: “Let Xingxing and me watch her for a while. We’ll bring her back soon, okay?”
The eldest cousin hesitated briefly before smiling warmly: “Of course!” He then took his son and left.
“Little Yiyi, be a good girl and give them back to Auntie, okay?” Zhu Xingyao extended her hand, patiently coaxing the child. But Yiyi remained fascinated by Jiang Tu’s glasses and showed no intention of giving them up. Dejected, Zhu Xingyao looked up at Jiang Tu.
Jiang Tu had been watching her intently. He softly asked, “Do you want to hold her?”
Zhu Xingyao paused, hesitating for a moment before carefully lifting her niece into her arms. The child was soft and small, comfortable to hold. It had been a long time since Zhu Xingyao had held such a young child, so she felt nervous. “Tu Ge, don’t let go just yet…”
Jiang Tu enveloped both her and the baby in his arms, leaning down to ask, “Are you afraid like this?”
Zhu Xingyao nuzzled the baby’s soft cheek and whispered, “I’m not scared. I just avoid newborns who can’t crawl or sit yet. Sometimes, it makes me think about…” About the unborn child.
Jiang Tu understood. He cupped her face and murmured, “From now on, whenever you think of anything unpleasant, tell me.”
That evening, Jiang Tu loaded fireworks into the trunk and took Zhu Xingyao and her nephew to the riverside to set them off. Once everything was arranged, he lit the fuses. Turning around, fireworks burst behind him, illuminating half the sky with dazzling colors.
Holding two sparklers, Zhu Xingyao smiled: “Tu Ge, light these for me.”
Her nephew shouted, “Me too!”
Jiang Tu lit their sparklers with a lighter, then leaned against the car, lighting a cigarette. Slowly puffing, he watched the playful pair. Pulling out his phone, he snapped a few photos of Zhu Xingyao from a distance. Realizing he was too far, he called out, “Xingxing.”
Zhu Xingyao turned, seeing him holding the phone. Her eyes curved into a smile, blossoming brightly.
________________________________________
On the sixth day of the Lunar New Year, Jiang Tu arranged for Shu Xian to have dinner with Zhu Yunping and Ding Yu. This meeting between the two families was purely formal, as Shu Xian had no say in Jiang Tu’s decisions and wouldn’t interfere anyway.
Details like the wedding date, venue, and guest list were mostly decided by Jiang Tu himself.
At the table, Ding Yu glanced at Shu Xian, then turned to Jiang Tu and Zhu Xingyao. “Xingxing is quite busy this year with performances. I’ve consulted someone about your compatibility based on your birth charts. October 6th and November 18th are auspicious dates. Which do you prefer?”
Zhu Xingyao looked at Jiang Tu, who said, “October 6th.”
“Why?” Zhu Xingyao whispered curiously.
Jiang Tu gazed down at her: “Because it’s earlier.”
Zhu Xingyao: “...”
Such a simple, straightforward reason.
Jiang Tu handed Zhu Yunping and Ding Yu a card containing a monetary gift. Before leaving, Ding Yu discreetly returned the card to Zhu Xingyao. Back home, Zhu Xingyao couldn’t help but ask, “Tu Ge, how much money is in that card?”
“Not much,” Jiang Tu replied, leading her into the study.
Zhu Xingyao pouted, deciding not to press further.
Jiang Tu retrieved two cards from a drawer and handed them to her: “My salary account and current savings.”
Zhu Xingyao gasped, hesitating for a few seconds before accepting them. Looking up at him, she said, “I already have plenty of money. You really didn’t need to give me these...”
Leaning against the desk, Jiang Tu chuckled: “Isn’t it customary for men to hand over their salary accounts to their wives after marriage?”
Zhu Xingyao froze, her face flushing red. Burying herself in his embrace, she whispered, “Actually, there’s no need. You’re not an ordinary man… But since you gave it to me, I’ll take it. If you ever need it, just tell me...” Glancing up at him shyly, she added, “I’m still used to calling you Tu Ge. Don’t men enjoy being called ‘Ge’ by women?”
Jiang Tu wrapped his arms around her waist, looking down at her: “I don’t know about others, but I’d like to hear you call me ‘husband’ occasionally.”
“It feels awkward...” Zhu Xingyao blushed, standing on tiptoe to kiss him sweetly. “Let me get used to it first.”
“How long will it take?” Jiang Tu teased.
Zhu Xingyao shrugged playfully: “I don’t know.”
Amused, Jiang Tu lightly pinched her cheek, indulging her.
________________________________________
The next day, the Spring Festival holiday ended, and Jiang Tu resumed work.
After the festival, Jiang Tu frequently invited Ding Xiang and his wife over for meals. He specifically instructed Ding Xiang to bring his wife along. They rarely interacted with pregnant women, and the only familiar ones were Ding Xiang and his wife. Since Zhu Xingyao knew Ding Xiang well and his wife was easygoing, Jiang Tu deliberately encouraged more interaction to help Zhu Xingyao gradually overcome her fears.
Once again, after Ding Xiang and his wife left, Zhu Xingyao quietly sighed in relief.
Jiang Tu pulled her close, looking into her eyes: “We don’t need to have children; none of that matters. But I don’t want you to keep avoiding pregnant women, always fearing you might accidentally hurt someone. Xingxing, don’t be afraid. We’ve already made amends. It’s all in the past. Try to let go completely, okay?”
Zhu Xingyao looked up at him: “Okay...”
________________________________________
In early March, she traveled to Beijing. The song “Waiting for Stars” would be included in Li Xixi’s new album as a duet. Additionally, X Band purchased the rights to record a male version.
After finishing recording late at night, Zhu Xingyao, Li Xixi, and Lin Jiayu went out for dinner.
Lin Jiayu ordered a bottle of red wine, pouring three glasses cheerfully: “With this song, we’ve secured our movie’s theme song!”
“When does filming start?” Zhu Xingyao sipped her wine.
“At the earliest, September. Since the story is ready and Tang Xin’s team is excellent, the script adaptation has gone smoothly,” Lin Jiayu explained. Clinking glasses with Zhu Xingyao, she suddenly frowned, troubled. “I once asked Lu Ji if he wanted me to soften his image in the story. He said no. But if he regrets it later when the movie comes out and more people see it, he might get criticized...”
Li Xixi, busy replying to messages on WeChat, didn’t look up: “How are things between you and Lu Ji?”
Lin Jiayu shrugged: “There’s nothing between us. After all these years, what could possibly happen? Now that we’re both in Beijing, I occasionally send him a message or two. When adapting the script, if I feel something hits too close to home, I send him a couple of red packets.”
Li Xixi put down her phone, looking up earnestly: “If you still like him, why don’t you make a move?” Then reconsidering, she waved her hands dismissively: “Never mind, never mind. There’s plenty of fish in the sea! Why obsess over Lu Ji?”
Lin Jiayu laughed, turning to Zhu Xingyao: “Xingxing, aren’t you moving soon?”
The fully furnished apartment they bought last year was ready, and they had already received the keys. Zhu Xingyao nodded: “We’ll move in a couple of months. There are some renovations I don’t like, so Jiang Tu said we should make adjustments.”
“Who’s been cast as the lead actors for the movie?” Li Xixi asked.
Netizens had debated the casting choices extensively, given Zhu Xingyao and Jiang Tu’s striking appearances, making it challenging to find suitable actors. Some suggested: “I can’t imagine anyone else fitting the roles. Let Zhu Xingyao play herself, and Jiang Tu has that cold, reserved aura that no actor in the entertainment industry can replicate. Since Li Xixi is a singer, why not have them reprise their real-life roles?”
Lin Jiayu turned to Zhu Xingyao: “Xingxing, would you consider playing the female lead?”
Zhu Xingyao blinked: “Will there be kissing scenes?”
Lin Jiayu grinned wickedly: “Of course! Without kisses and intimate scenes, the movie would lack soul!”
Zhu Xingyao: “...”
Smiling mischievously, she said, “Then can we cast Tu Ge as the male lead?”
Lin Jiayu faltered, retreating sheepishly: “Forget I said anything.”
The debate over casting raged online for a long time. By the end of March, Time Pictures officially announced that Tang Tingting would play the female lead, and Zhong Yi would play the male lead in the movie adaptation of Waiting for Stars .
“Tang Tingting? Perfect choice! The daughter of Time Pictures’ CEO! Talented and versatile!”
“I almost forgot about Tang Tingting!”
“This casting pleases me, but the male lead... I’m skeptical.”
________________________________________
On the last Friday of April, Zhu Xingyao returned to Jiangcheng a day earlier after finishing a performance abroad. She hadn’t informed Jiang Tu, as they separated at least once a month due to her schedule. Each time, she tried to shorten her trips and return early to surprise him.
After arriving home, Zhu Xingyao napped to adjust to the time difference. At 6 PM, when her alarm rang, she got up and sent a message to Jiang Tu.
Xingxing in the Sky: “Tu Ge, I’ll cook dinner tonight!”
At that moment, Jiang Tu was still in the office discussing work with Lao Yuan. Ten minutes later, he finally saw the message. As Lao Yuan packed up his things, he turned to ask, “Your wife isn’t back yet, right? Want to grab dinner together?”
“She’s back,” Jiang Tu replied, slipping his phone into his pocket. He picked up the courier package and car keys. “I’m heading out. Remember to lock up.”
Lao Yuan exclaimed, but Jiang Tu was already striding away.
As Lao Yuan closed the office door, two young women from the publicity department were still staring at Jiang Tu’s retreating figure. Shaking his head, he teased, “Stop ogling married men. Aren’t there plenty of single handsome guys in the company?”
“Where?” Yang, one of the girls from publicity, blinked innocently.
Lao Yuan puffed out his chest: “Aren’t I handsome?”
Yang spoke honestly: “You look fine individually, but standing next to our boss? No comparison needed.”
Lao Yuan: “...”
Looking utterly defeated, he made the two girls burst into laughter.
________________________________________
Zhu Xingyao tied her hair into a ponytail, donned an apron, and placed her iPad on the counter, playing a video tutorial for scrambled eggs with tomatoes. Having grown up pampered, she rarely cooked, but hearing that this dish was beginner-friendly, she followed along step-by-step while watching the video.
Watching the video seemed... not too difficult!
Suddenly brimming with confidence, Zhu Xingyao felt sure of herself.
As soon as Jiang Tu walked through the door, he smelled something burning. Hearing her cough, he rushed inside to find her hurriedly pouring water into the pan. Setting down the courier package and car keys, he stepped behind her, taking the spatula from her hands. Looking down at her, he asked, “Why didn’t you wait for me to come back?”
Zhu Xingyao’s eyes were red from smoke irritation. She looked up defiantly: “The video made it seem so simple! Who knew...”
Who knew it would be so hard in practice!
Jiang Tu glanced at the blackened mess boiling in the pot, sighing helplessly: “If you want to learn, I’ll teach you.”
Zhu Xingyao immediately brightened: “Okay!”
“Roll up my sleeves for me.”
“Got it!”
“Hand me the apron.”
“Uh...”
There was only one dark-colored men’s apron at home, which swallowed Zhu Xingyao whole. She quickly untied it, draping it around Jiang Tu’s neck. Suddenly pausing, she tilted her head up to look at him. Jiang Tu gazed down at her, his eyes deep and dark.
Zhu Xingyao’s breath caught. Blinking, she found herself kissed.
Jiang Tu pressed her against him, capturing her lips in a passionate kiss that left her breathless. In a low voice, he asked, “Hungry?”
Not really...
Did that mean skipping dinner? After more than two months of marriage, Zhu Xingyao deeply understood what “absence makes the heart grow fonder” meant. Knowing she couldn’t resist his advances while hungry, she admitted honestly, “Yes...”
Jiang Tu chuckled, releasing her. “Then let’s eat first.”
Blushing, Zhu Xingyao circled behind him to tie the apron properly.
Jiang Tu cracked three eggs into a bowl, and Zhu Xingyao stood beside him, watching. When the phone on the table rang, she went to answer it. It was Ding Yu calling: “Are you coming over to pack your things before moving?”
“I’m already back! Tomorrow, Jiang Tu and I will tidy up.” After hanging up, Zhu Xingyao glanced at the courier package on the table—a newly issued passport sent via EMS. Turning to Jiang Tu’s tall silhouette, she called out, “Tu Ge, I’m opening your package!”
Jiang Tu hummed in acknowledgment.
Flipping through the passport, Zhu Xingyao noticed the photo inside. His stern features and calm gaze struck her. Taking the passport back to the study, she opened a drawer and spotted an old, corner-cut passport.
Curious, she picked it up. She’d never flipped through his passports before and suddenly wanted to see where he’d traveled. Flipping to 2016, her hand froze. Grabbing the old passport, she ran to the kitchen.
“What’s wrong?” Jiang Tu saw her rush in, glancing down at the old passport in her hand. Instantly, he understood.
“Tu Ge, did you... visit Germany in 2016?” Zhu Xingyao looked up, staring directly at him.
The scrambled eggs with tomatoes were done. Jiang Tu turned off the stove, unsure how to explain. After a few seconds, he nodded faintly: “In May that year, I received a large bonus. Coincidentally, you were holding a concert in Munich, so I bought a ticket.”
Suddenly, Zhu Xingyao remembered Xiao Kui mentioning casually: “All tickets were sold out except for one seat in the back row that mysteriously became vacant. Someone didn’t show up.”
That empty seat...
Was Jiang Tu’s ticket.
Her eyes welled up, biting her lip, feeling a mix of emotions. “Then why didn’t you come?”
Jiang Tu pulled her into his arms, apologizing: “There was a car accident on the way to the airport. I missed the flight, rescheduled, and arrived hours after the concert ended.”
“A car accident? Were you injured?” she asked anxiously.
“Just minor injuries, better than the day of my college entrance exam crash. Nothing serious, don’t worry.” On the plane, despite his wounds, the flight attendants insisted on treating him, scaring them. Jiang Tu chuckled self-deprecatingly: “When it comes to pursuing you, my luck has always been bad. Maybe it’s because I wasn’t good enough, which is why I couldn’t...”
Zhu Xingyao abruptly rose on tiptoe, silencing him with a kiss. Clutching his neck tightly, she murmured against his lips, her voice trembling: “You’re the best in the world.”
The absolute best Jiang Tu.
No one could ever compare to him.
Jiang Tu closed his eyes, parting his lips to deepen the kiss. Moments later, he responded fervently, leaving Zhu Xingyao breathless. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she jumped up, wrapping her legs around his waist.
“Skipping dinner?” Jiang Tu steadied her, whispering against her lips.
Zhu Xingyao didn’t reply, her hands moving to unbutton his shirt—one, two, three buttons...
Jiang Tu’s Adam’s apple bobbed. Cupping his face, she kissed him softly, murmuring, “I changed my mind. Let’s eat later...”
The kitchen lights dimmed as night fell, the last traces of daylight vanishing atop the skyscrapers. Removing his glasses, he placed them on the counter, his dark eyes fixed on her. Amidst their entangled breaths, Jiang Tu recalled the unfinished food in the kitchen and regained partial clarity. Draping his shirt over her shoulders, clad only in black dress pants, he carried her through the dim living room back to their bedroom.
“Tu Ge,” she whispered, clinging to his neck.
“Hmm.”
His voice was low, his steps quick.
Soon, she was gently placed on the bed.
Still clinging to his neck, Zhu Xingyao gazed at him tenderly: “Husband.”
Jiang Tu paused, lowering his gaze to meet hers. A faint smile curved his lips: “Finally calling me that?”
He hadn’t mentioned the matter of titles again, thinking “Tu Ge” suited her just fine. Zhu Xingyao seemed to have forgotten about it too. After more than two months of marriage, she finally called him “husband.”
Her career required frequent travel worldwide—not just for performances but also for advertisements and events. They had been apart for nearly half a month this time. She had always known Jiang Tu couldn’t resist her advances. Each time she took the initiative, his response was an uncontrollable wave of passion. Releasing her trembling legs, he lifted his head, rising above her to cradle her face. Lowering his lips, he kissed her deeply.
Zhu Xingyao tasted her own essence on his lips. Her lashes trembled, damp with emotion, her voice weak and exhausted: “Tu Ge, you’re so bad...”
Jiang Tu lowered himself, restraining himself to ask, “Too much?”
Her mouth opened, momentarily dazed. Tears welled up in her eyes again, and she let out a soft, involuntary cry.
The night breeze fluttered the curtains, moonlight filtering through the gaps, casting shadows that danced tirelessly.
Zhu Xingyao clung to Jiang Tu’s sweat-drenched back, his muscles still taut. Turning to embrace her, he closed his eyes, brushing his chin against her hair. The air grew quiet for a moment. Coming back to her senses, she leaned up, pressing a gentle kiss to his throat, her voice barely audible: “Tu Ge, have I ever told you how sexy your voice sounds at the end?”
Eyes closed, Jiang Tu chuckled: “Xingxing, if you still want to eat, stop provoking me.”
Zhu Xingyao: “...”
Wisely, she shut her mouth.
After a while, Jiang Tu got up, dressed, and returned to the kitchen to finish cooking.
________________________________________
May 1st, Zhu Xingyao and Jiang Tu moved into their new home. They spent the entire day settling in. That evening, Jiang Tu drove Zhu Xingyao out somewhere.
“Where are we going?” she asked.
“We’re almost there,” Jiang Tu replied.
Ten minutes later, Jiang Tu led Zhu Xingyao into a high-end pet store.
Surprised, Zhu Xingyao looked up at him.
Jiang Tu met her gaze: “Our house is big now. Let’s get a cat—or two. If you prefer dogs, we can get one of those too.”
Zhu Xingyao whispered hesitantly: “Is it because we’re not having kids, so...”
“Don’t overthink it. I noticed Li Xixi has two cats, and you always like her posts, commenting on how cute they are.” Leading her inside, Jiang Tu continued, “Mom told me recently that you’ve always loved pets. When you were little, you begged to have one, but she couldn’t due to her sensitivity to animal fur. Now’s your chance.”
Standing in front of the cages, Jiang Tu looked down at her: “Pick one?”
Li Xixi owned a Ragdoll and a Scottish Fold—both adorable breeds.
Over an hour later, Zhu Xingyao happily exited the store, cradling a small Ragdoll kitten. They also purchased numerous supplies. The color of the cat bed she wanted wasn’t in stock, so the staff promised delivery the next day.
Approaching the car, Jiang Tu stowed the items in the trunk. Zhu Xingyao looked up at him: “Tu Ge, what should we name her?”
Before he could respond, her expression suddenly shifted, eyes wide as she stared ahead.
Quickly seeking refuge, she rushed to him, burying her face against his shoulder.
“What’s wrong?” Jiang Tu frowned, turning to look.
A woman seven or eight months pregnant, holding a little girl’s hand, was crossing the street toward them.
It wasn’t just any pregnant woman causing Zhu Xingyao’s reaction—it was Jiang Yue. Jiang Tu tightened his grip on her, whispering reassuringly: “It’s okay.”
Zhu Xingyao hadn’t seen Jiang Yue in years. Swallowing hard, she murmured: “I saw Jiang Yue...”
As Jiang Yue and her daughter passed by, the little girl looked up, spotting the kitten nestled in Zhu Xingyao’s arms. Delighted, she exclaimed: “Mommy, the kitty’s so cute!”
Jiang Yue turned, locking eyes with Jiang Tu’s cold stare. Startled, she recognized the woman hunched over, cradling the cat. She’d seen the exposure of Waiting for Stars , Li Xixi’s concert, and the film announcement—all of which deeply moved her.
Jiang Tu held her gaze for a few seconds before guiding Zhu Xingyao to the car. Opening the passenger door, he helped her inside.
“Wait—”
Jiang Yue suddenly called out.
“Is there something you need?” Jiang Tu turned his head, his gaze still cold and indifferent.
Jiang Yue looked at Zhu Xingyao and softly said, “Zhu Xingyao, I have a few words I’d like to say to you.”
Zhu Xingyao’s body stiffened slightly. She turned around, holding the little Ragdoll kitten, and Jiang Tu frowned. “If you have anything to say, tell me.” He looked down at Zhu Xingyao, his tone gentle. “Go wait for me in the car.”
“I just have a few words!” Jiang Yue suddenly grew anxious. She glanced at Jiang Tu, then turned to Zhu Xingyao. “What I want to say is... back then, when I was pregnant, Chen Yi didn’t want that child, nor did he want to marry me. That day, he was forcing me to get an abortion. Even if you hadn’t pushed me, that child wouldn’t have been born. If nothing had happened that day, I probably would’ve kept pestering Chen Yi. You must’ve felt so much psychological pressure back then, right? As for me back then… never mind. I just wanted to tell you that I’m doing well now. I’ve let go of all those things long ago, and I hope you can let go too.”
Jiang Yue held her daughter’s hand and slowly walked away.
Under the dim yellow streetlights, Zhu Xingyao buried herself in Jiang Tu’s arms, crying with委屈. The little Ragdoll kitten squirmed restlessly in her arms. The weight of that incident had pressed on her heart for far too long—like a mountain crushing her, filling her with nightmares and suffocating her.
Passersby paused to look at them.
Jiang Tu opened the back door of the car and helped her inside. He sat her on his lap and gently consoled her: “Don’t cry, okay?” Years ago, Zhu Yunping had given Chen Yi 5 million yuan to ease Zhu Xingyao’s psychological burden—she was just too kind-hearted.
After all these years, to suddenly learn that the unborn child was merely a pawn Chen Yi used to extract money left Jiang Tu regretting not beating Chen Yi up at the stadium entrance back then.
Zhu Xingyao gradually stopped crying. She stroked the little Ragdoll kitten, leaning against Jiang Tu, and softly said, “Tu Ge, let’s go home.”
________________________________________
When they got back, Zhu Xingyao spent the entire night thinking and finally named their new family member, the Ragdoll kitten, “Tang Dou.”
________________________________________
At the end of August, Zhu Xingyao’s custom-made wedding dress arrived at the bridal shop. She and Jiang Tu went together to try it on.
Jiang Tu sat on the sofa as a staff member placed a cup of coffee on the coffee table in front of him. His eyes shifted slightly, glancing toward the dressing room behind the curtain. He had always known Zhu Xingyao was beautiful—she looked stunning even in oversized blue-and-white school uniforms, always standing out among the crowd of girls.
He had seen her in countless performance outfits—red, white, blue… He had imagined how she would look in a wedding dress before, but now, he suddenly felt a bit unsettled.
Jiang Tu stood up, facing the window, looking at the bustling street scene across the way.
“Tu Ge...”
Zhu Xingyao emerged wearing a perfectly tailored trailing wedding gown. Her shoulders were flawless, her collarbone delicate, and her chest contours soft and graceful. She held a star-shaped pendant necklace in one hand and stood behind him, calling his name softly.
Jiang Tu turned around, standing by the window, silently gazing at her.
He walked over to her, and Zhu Xingyao handed him the necklace, smiling. “Help me put it on.”
Jiang Tu stood behind her and fastened the necklace. He looked up at the large mirror, and Zhu Xingyao, feeling self-conscious under his gaze, turned around in his arms and asked with a smile, “Do I look good?”
Of course.
Jiang Tu leaned down and kissed her forehead.
That evening, Zhu Xingyao received a call from Li Xixi. Over the phone, Li Xixi vented angrily, “Xu Xiangyang made me so mad! I’m breaking up with him!!”
The night before, it was Li Xixi’s Beijing concert. After the show ended, Zhou Yang came onstage to give her a bouquet of flowers. Fans in the audience shouted, “Get together!” Rumors about the two of them had been circulating for a while, and no matter how many times Li Xixi denied them, they persisted.
Xu Xiangyang, being the jealous type, started arguing with her as soon as they got home. Early the next morning, Li Xixi had another engagement, so she dropped a line: “This time, it’s really over. When I come back, I’ll pack my things.”
With that, she left.
Leaving behind a bewildered Xu Xiangyang, who hadn’t even woken up properly yet.
Zhu Xingyao chuckled. “It’s the end of the month, so it’s time for their breakup again.”
Li Xixi: “...”
She declared firmly, “This time, we’re definitely done! Even if Xu Xiangyang kneels before me, I won’t reconcile!”
Zhu Xingyao was used to Li Xixi and Xu Xiangyang’s monthly breakups, which happened like clockwork. She gave some perfunctory comforting words. Jiang Tu emerged from the bathroom, standing by the bed, and looked down at her. “Xingxing, where do you want to go for our honeymoon?”
Zhu Xingyao was startled. After a moment of thought, she looked up at him. “To Berlin?”
Berlin was where she studied abroad, a place she knew well. She figured he might want to visit too.
Jiang Tu sat beside her. “How about Italy instead? We can go to Berlin another time.”
“Sure,” Zhu Xingyao agreed without objection, though she was curious. “Why Italy?”
Jiang Tu pulled her into his arms and whispered, “When I was in high school, I always wanted to give you a gift—a custom-made cello from an Italian luthier. Let’s go to Italy to buy a cello.”
Zhu Xingyao stared at him, her eyes reddening again. “Okay...”
She couldn’t help but wonder if she would spend the rest of her life being moved to tears by him.
________________________________________
Li Xixi’s breakup with Xu Xiangyang this time wasn’t just for show. After her roadshow ended, she went home, packed some luggage, took her two cats, and left. When Xu Xiangyang returned from work, he found that Li Xixi’s two large suitcases and her favorite dresses were gone. Most importantly, the cats were missing.
He panicked and tried calling Li Xixi, her assistant, and even her manager, but all calls were rejected.
Li Xixi had earned quite a bit over the years and bought herself a house in Beijing, which had been sitting empty.
Xu Xiangyang drove over, but the lights were off.
He sent her numerous messages, and after a long while, Li Xixi finally relented and sent him one: “Xu Xiangyang, this time we’re really over. You’re so jealous and distrustful of me—you can spend the rest of your life hugging that vinegar jar!”
Xu Xiangyang: “...”
Standing under her building, he cursed aloud: “Damn it!”
They had broken up and reconciled hundreds of times—wasn’t it always a fight at the head of the bed and making up at the foot?
This time, Li Xixi didn’t even give him a chance to get back into bed.
As the drama unfolded, Xu Xiangyang, at his wit’s end, called Zhu Xingyao for help.
Zhu Xingyao remembered what Li Xixi had told her a few days earlier: “If Xu Xiangyang calls you to persuade me, don’t you dare! I’m giving him a lesson! If he keeps acting like this and getting jealous over nothing, I won’t come back!”
After a moment of silence, Zhu Xingyao told Xu Xiangyang, “Xixi told me that even if you kneel before her, she won’t reconcile with you this time.”
Xu Xiangyang: “...”
He hung up the phone and fell silent for a long while.
After a moment, he picked up his phone and kicked Li Xixi out of their group chat.
Li Xixi: “???!!!”
Xu Xiangyang, you’re dead meat!!!
The next day, Xu Xiangyang added her back into the group.
Li Xixi: “...”
Xu Xiangyang, are you insane?!
Don’t think you can win her attention with such antics—this time, she absolutely won’t give in!
________________________________________
On September 1st, Lin Jiayu’s new book Waiting for Stars went on national pre-sale. With promotions from Zhu Xingyao, Li Xixi, and the lead actors of the movie adaptation, sales skyrocketed. On September 20th, she held a book-signing event at a bookstore in Beijing. The queue of readers was incredibly long, lasting several hours until evening when the event finally concluded.
Lu Ji’s company was nearby. A couple of days earlier, he had received a local courier package from Lin Jiayu containing a specially signed copy of Waiting for Stars . The book had been sitting on his desk for two days. During lunch break, Xu Xiangyang noticed it and remarked, “Lin Jiayu is holding a signing event at a nearby bookstore. There are a lot of people—her popularity is impressive.”
Lu Ji paused. After Xu Xiangyang left, he hesitated, picked up the book, and flipped to the first page.
Before this, Xu Xiangyang, Zhou Yang, and even his own family had casually mentioned the book’s content, but he hadn’t bothered to read it. Lu Ji spent the afternoon reading through it. During the early parts set in high school, he furrowed his brow several times.
In the evening, he left the office, taking the book with him.
After the signing event, some readers lingered nearby, reluctant to leave. Someone spotted a man in a white shirt and black trousers walking into the bookstore. A young girl tugged at her friend’s sleeve: “Look! That guy is so handsome!”
Her friend asked, “Is he handsomer than Jiang Tu?”
The girl replied, “They’re both handsome! Different types!”
Nearby readers followed their gaze, catching only a glimpse of a tall, slender figure heading toward the loft. Lin Jiayu, who had just finished a small interview, was still seated in the bookstore’s loft, wearing a long dress, her makeup impeccable, and her smile serene.
Lu Ji stood by a tall bookshelf, looking down at her. He wondered if every girl went through a transformation, becoming increasingly captivating over time. In his memory, Lin Jiayu was still a plain, somewhat moody high school girl who often sulked.
He never understood why she was upset, thinking perhaps it was because she felt wronged on behalf of Jiang Tu.
Now, he understood.
Not entirely.
Lin Jiayu finished the interview and turned around, stunned.
The interviewer whispered excitedly, “Wow, who’s that handsome guy?”
Lin Jiayu snapped out of her daze. Lu Ji casually descended the stairs, pulling a copy of Waiting for Stars from a nearby shelf. He looked up at her. “Lin Jiayu, you didn’t hold back in the book. When did I ever say the class representative was ugly? Or that you were beyond saving?”
Lin Jiayu’s eyes widened in disbelief. So he had read it...
She sniffed. “I was writing realistically. You clearly said those hurtful things.”
The editor, momentarily confused, suddenly lit up. “Who is this?”
“Oh, just the second male lead everyone loves to hate,” Lin Jiayu said nonchalantly.
Lu Ji: “...”
The editor’s eyes sparkled as she looked at Lu Ji. The prototype for the second male lead was this handsome?! Zhu Xingyao was truly blessed! To have such a first love... no wonder! Lin Jiayu could tell what the editor was thinking and rolled her eyes, turning to Lu Ji. “Let me treat you to dinner to compensate for your mental distress.”
Lu Ji looked at her, raising an eyebrow. “Alright.”
________________________________________
On September 25th, filming for the movie adaptation of Waiting for Stars , titled Our Time , began at Jiangcheng No. 1 High School. Most of the scenes were to be filmed there. The director worried that by autumn, the leaves of the trees in the forest would fall, and the weather wouldn’t be suitable, so the scene with the starry sky lights had to be filmed in early October. As soon as filming began, the props team started preparing the starry lights.
Looking at photos from the forum, someone exclaimed, “How did the male lead manage to hang thousands of stars by himself back then?”
Screenwriter Tang Xin passed by, smiling. “With love, of course!”
Lin Jiayu laughed. “He did it alone over a month. With so many of you, it’ll only take a few days!”
Lead actress Tang Tingting stood nearby, also smiling. “Work hard, everyone. Not a single star can be missing from my starry sky!”
Everyone burst into laughter, and the props team worked with renewed vigor.
________________________________________
On October 5th, the day before Zhu Xingyao and Jiang Tu’s wedding, Zhu Xingyao woke up to find a card on the table. Printed on it was the image of a cellist girl, similar to the cards from years ago.
Zhu Xingyao climbed out of bed and picked up the card.
Starting from the day filming began, Jiang Tu had written Zhu Xingyao a love letter every morning.
Adding these to the eighty-seven letters from years ago, by tomorrow’s wedding, there would be exactly ninety-nine.
Xingxing,
Tomorrow is the day before our wedding.
Don’t forget—you’re marrying me.
—Jiang Tu
October 5, 2018
Zhu Xingyao couldn’t help but smile. The door opened, and Jiang Tu walked in, followed by Tang Dou.
After five months, Tang Dou had grown from a tiny kitten into a beautiful, full-furred cat. It leaped onto the bed and snuggled into Zhu Xingyao’s arms. She hugged it, laughing as she scratched its belly. Holding Tang Dou, she knelt on the bed and looked up at Jiang Tu. “Tu Ge, tonight Xu Xiangyang is going to propose to Xixi. Should we go together?”
There were still some details and procedures to finalize before tomorrow’s wedding.
Jiang Tu thought for a moment, then looked down at her. “You go ahead. Xiao Kui can go with you.”
As for Xu Xiangyang’s so-called proposal, it was more like a forced marriage.
The reunion spot for Class 1 of the senior year理科(1)班 was at Jiangcheng No. 1 High School. Some people had already arrived in the afternoon. Since students were usually in class during the week, filming progress was slow, so the Our Time crew had to work overtime on weekends and holidays.
The last time Zhu Xingyao visited the school was during last year’s anniversary celebration. She and Xiao Kui arrived at 5 PM.
To liven up the campus atmosphere, the crew coordinated with the school to allow some students in on weekends and holidays, provided they wore uniforms. As a result, the campus was bustling with students in uniforms and crew members.
Zhu Xingyao called Li Xixi. “Where are you guys?”
“In the small forest! The props team is setting up the starry lights—they’ll be done soon! Hurry over!” Li Xixi sounded excited.
Zhu Xingyao and Xiao Kui stood at the other end of the small grove. She looked up as the prop team climbed ladders into the trees, safety ropes strapped around their waists. Despite the precautions, it still looked perilous. She couldn’t fathom how Jiang Tu had managed to do it all those years ago.
Xiao Kui said excitedly, “Wow, does this mean I get to see the starry lights tonight ahead of time?”
Zhu Xingyao lowered her gaze, her heart aching for Jiang Tu from that year. If only she could travel back in time, she would hug him tightly.
Li Xixi made a cameo appearance as an English teacher in the movie. The director initially wanted her to play herself, but Li Xixi declined: “No way! I’m 27 now—pretending to be a 16 or 17-year-old? People will laugh at me!”
In truth, there was no need to worry. With her short hair and youthful appearance, she could easily pass as a high school student in uniform. If anything set her apart, it was her eyes—ten years had passed between 27 and 17, and her years in the entertainment industry had left their mark.
Zhu Xingyao walked through the grove and spotted Li Xixi chatting with Lin Jiayu, surrounded by familiar faces—all invited by Xu Xiangyang to help with the proposal.
“Xingxing, over here!” Li Xixi waved.
As Zhu Xingyao approached, she heard Xu Xiangyang suggest, “The crew has plenty of spare uniforms. Why don’t we all change into them and relive our student days?”
Li Xixi immediately scoffed, “We’re almost 30. Who do you think you’re fooling?!”
Xu Xiangyang: “...”
He shot Zhu Xingyao a pleading look.
After a moment’s thought, Zhu Xingyao said, “Xixi, let’s change too. Along with Jiayu, we can pretend it’s a photoshoot.”
Li Xixi exclaimed happily, “Alright!”
Xu Xiangyang breathed a sigh of relief.
The entire Class 1 of the graduating class of 2006 changed into uniforms and joined the film crew for dinner in the school cafeteria.
At 8 PM, Lu Ji and Zhou Yuan arrived. Zhou Yuan, excited, grabbed a set of uniforms and handed one to Lu Ji.
Lu Ji glanced at it dismissively: “No thanks.”
Zhou Yuan shrugged, “Then I’ll go change myself.”
Zhu Xingyao, Li Xixi, and Lin Jiayu changed into their uniforms and strolled through the campus under the night sky. Lin Jiayu was thrilled: “Soon we’ll test if the starry lights work. I suddenly miss those days so much.”
Coincidentally, the moon hid behind clouds tonight, making the weather similar to back then.
Zhu Xingyao smiled. She missed those days too. What woman wouldn’t long for her 17-year-old self?
Li Xixi glanced at their old classmates and rolled her eyes: “Our class wasn’t exactly ugly, but why did some of them gain weight? Wearing uniforms with faces nearing 30—it just doesn’t look right!” Turning to Zhu Xingyao, she teased, “Look at Xingxing—she hasn’t changed at all, still a goddess.”
Zhu Xingyao ruffled her short hair and laughed, “You haven’t changed either!”
“What about your Jiang Tu?” Lin Jiayu asked.
Zhu Xingyao took out her phone: “I’ll call him. He’s with my parents discussing something, but he should be arriving soon.”
Jiang Tu’s car had already reached the gate and was negotiating entry with the security guard. He answered the call: “I’m at the entrance. Where are you?”
“We’re near the senior three teaching building, close to the grove,” she couldn’t help but tell him, “Tu Ge, the crew is finishing the starry lights tonight. They’ll test them later.”
Jiang Tu felt conflicted about the movie but calmly replied, “Alright. Wait for me—I’ll be there in a few minutes.”
After hanging up, Zhu Xingyao saw a message from Xu Xiangyang.
Xu Xiangyang: “Bring her over.”
She replied: “Okay.”
Then messaged Jiang Tu: “Husband, Xixi and I are heading to the auditorium. Find us there when you arrive.”
Jiang Tu’s car pulled up to the back door of the auditorium. Entering, he saw Zhu Xingyao waving at him. “We’re in the auditorium,” she whispered.
Walking inside, he spotted Xu Xiangyang sitting center stage, clad in summer uniform, holding a guitar. Over the years, Xu Xiangyang hadn’t aged visibly—he remained tall and lean, exuding youthful confidence even now.
Li Xixi blinked, muttering softly, “Don’t think this means I’ll forgive you.”
Suddenly, a crowd of students in uniform poured in, filling the seats. Their old classmates mingled among them, though ten years had unmistakably passed since they were 17.
Time’s passage brought both sadness and happiness.
Xu Xiangyang leaned toward the mic: “Xixi, on your 17th birthday, I planned to confess my feelings to you with this guitar, but then Zhu Xingyao got hurt, and I never followed through. Now, let me play for you again. How about it?”
Li Xixi’s eyes reddened, but she sniffed, refusing to speak.
Hundreds of students clapped and cheered: “Yes! Of course!”
Xu Xiangyang smiled and began playing Jay Chou’s “Confession Balloons.”
His guitar skills had improved over the years, and his singing voice remained enchanting. Li Xixi, nudged forward by Zhu Xingyao and Lin Jiayu, listened as Xu Xiangyang finished the song. Jumping off the stage, he stood before her.
Xu Xiangyang gazed at Li Xixi, and suddenly, the students pulled bouquets of roses from under their chairs. Surrounding Li Xixi, they created a wall of flowers. Zhu Xingyao and Lin Jiayu stepped back, smiling as they gave them space.
Zhou Yuan and another cameraman filmed the scene while Lu Ji leaned against the stage, watching quietly.
Jiang Tu entered through the back door.
Li Xixi glanced around nervously, realizing something was amiss. “What are you planning?” she demanded.
“You said even if I knelt, you wouldn’t forgive me,” Xu Xiangyang pulled out an elegant box, opened it, and knelt before her. Looking up, he said, “If forgiveness isn’t possible, then let’s marry instead.”
Li Xixi stared at him, utterly shocked.
“Marry me, Xixi,” Xu Xiangyang pleaded.
Her eyes watered, but she feigned indifference. “Don’t think kneeling will make me say yes...”
Yet, the next moment—
Their old classmates led the cheers:
“Marry him! Marry him! Marry him!”
“Li Xixi, if you don’t accept today, you’re not leaving this hall!”
“If you want to leave, agree to him!”
The younger students joined in, chanting loudly. Li Xixi froze, recalling Xu Xiangyang’s dramatic “forced marriage” scene in Class 2 ten years ago. Never had she imagined he’d use the same tactic on her.
Frustrated, she stomped her foot and turned to Zhu Xingyao and Lin Jiayu: “Xingxing, you have to help me!”
The auditorium fell silent.
Zhu Xingyao smiled: “This is your decision. I can’t help you.”
Meanwhile, Jiang Tu heard her voice and noticed their old classmates in uniform. Someone called out, “Jiang Tu, you’re here?”
“Yes,” he nodded, pushing through the crowd until he spotted Zhu Xingyao standing near the front, her ponytail swaying. Sensing his presence, she turned and smiled at him.
For a moment, Jiang Tu thought he was looking at 17-year-old Zhu Xingyao.
A younger girl exclaimed, “Senior Jiang Tu!”
He nodded and walked over, taking Zhu Xingyao’s hand.
Glancing at Xu Xiangyang and Li Xixi, someone shouted again: “Li Xixi, say yes!”
Xu Xiangyang urged, “Xixi, how long do you plan to keep me kneeling?”
Li Xixi wiped her eyes and looked around. “If I refuse, will you really not let me leave?”
“No!”
“Absolutely not!”
Sniffling, Li Xixi extended her hand, pride evident in her tone: “Fine, I’ll reluctantly marry you.”
Ten years later, a real-life forced marriage concluded dramatically.
Jiang Tu held Zhu Xingyao’s hand as they exited the auditorium, heading toward the teaching building. Behind them trailed a sea of students in uniform. Jiang Tu, dressed in a shirt and trousers, stood out slightly. He kept glancing down at Zhu Xingyao.
Noticing his gaze, Zhu Xingyao blushed and was about to say something when the sky suddenly lit up.
Lin Jiayu gasped, excited: “The prop team finished the starry lights! Let’s go check it out!”
The students cheered and rushed toward the grove.
Zhu Xingyao looked up happily: “Tu Ge, let’s go!”
Her makeup was light, nearly faded after hours of wear, and her uniform-clad figure made Jiang Tu feel as though he’d traveled back ten years, holding hands with 17-year-old Zhu Xingyao.
He pursed his lips: “Alright.”
Trailing behind the crowd were Zhou Yuan and Lu Ji, the latter dressed in a navy-blue shirt, equally out of place.
Lin Jiayu glanced back.
Zhou Yuan chuckled: “Lin Jiayu, you’ve grown prettier than in high school.”
Lin Jiayu forced a smile: “Thank you!”
Lu Ji, hands in his pockets, looked at her indifferently, smirking faintly.
When everyone reached the grove, they realized the crew was still testing—the lights weren’t fully functional yet. Two trees’ lights remained dark, requiring another half-hour of adjustments. By 10 PM, the crew still hadn’t finished.
Security began clearing the area, urging extras and visiting students to leave.
Lin Jiayu turned to Jiang Tu: “Will you help take a look?”
Jiang Tu hesitated, his expression cold as he frowned.
Tang Xin glanced at him and smiled: “Can you? We’re filming in two days.”
Zhu Xingyao tugged his hand. Jiang Tu looked down at her and walked toward the prop team.
Another thirty minutes passed.
The starry lights were tested again. Jiang Tu flipped the switch, and thousands of stars illuminated the branches, transforming the tranquil campus into a dreamlike, romantic scene.
Jiang Tu stepped back, looking at Zhu Xingyao, still in her uniform, standing at the stone path’s intersection: “We should head home.”
Realizing she was still in her uniform, Zhu Xingyao said quickly: “I’ll go change!”
“Change at home.”
“Ah? Okay.”
Zhu Xingyao ran back to grab her clothes and bag, then returned to Jiang Tu.
He took the bag from her and held her hand, leading her toward the starry lights.
The moon peeked out from behind the clouds. Lin Jiayu sat on a chair left by the crew, chin resting on her hand, watching their silhouettes stretch under the moonlight. Turning to Lu Ji beside her, she asked: “Interview question: What are your thoughts watching them walk into the starry grove?”
Lu Ji’s eyes were half-lidded as he replied indifferently: “Nothing special. Just repaying what I owed Jiang Tu and Zhu Xingyao.”
Lin Jiayu: “That’s it?”
Lu Ji turned to her: “What else do you expect? Should I react differently?”
Lin Jiayu fell silent, suddenly reminiscent of her high school self sulking at him.
Seconds later, Lu Ji leaned closer, whispering: “Lin Jiayu, let’s give it a try.” At 17, she had seen his lowest moments yet still liked him. Now, transformed, she radiated charm and confidence.
He too had let go of everything, reborn.
Perhaps they were meant for each other.
Lin Jiayu blinked, turning to him. “What do you mean, ‘try’? Are you asking me to be your girlfriend?”
Lu Ji paused, nodding: “Yes.”
Lin Jiayu pouted: “Lu Ji, didn’t anyone teach you that to win a girl’s heart, you first need to pursue her? Back in high school... though you weren’t as bold as Jiang Tu, you were pretty good at chasing someone.”
Lu Ji: “...”
After a few seconds, he chuckled softly: “Alright.”
Moments later, he added: “Lin Jiayu, you’ve changed.”
Lin Jiayu replied: “That’s because we’ve grown up.”
Grown up, becoming better versions of themselves.
Her, Jiang Tu, Zhu Xingyao, Li Xixi, Xu Xiangyang, Zhou Yuan, Ding Xiang... everyone had grown and transformed.
She looked at Lu Ji: “You too.”
________________________________________
Zhu Xingyao hummed “Waiting for Stars” softly as Jiang Tu held her hand—
“I received a love letter
And the world’s most beautiful blessing
But you never once said you loved me
You shattered the darkness, bringing starlight to me
But I, young and naïve, misunderstood your silence
I knew nothing of love, unaware of your pain
Only after parting did I realize
My memories of you remain unmatched...”
Jiang Tu stopped under a tree, looking down at her. Zhu Xingyao ceased humming and whispered: “Tu Ge, you’ve been staring at me like this all night... Is it strange seeing me in a 17-year-old’s uniform at 27?”
“No,” Jiang Tu glanced at his own attire and smiled faintly. “I keep feeling like I’m holding 17-year-old you.”
Women past 25 often became sensitive about their age, and Zhu Xingyao was no exception. Sighing, she said, “Men always prefer women at 20, while women wish they could stay 17 forever.”
“Not me. I loved you at 17, but I love you even more at 27.”
“Why?”
“Because at 17, you were someone I couldn’t have. At 27, you’re already my wife.” Jiang Tu looked down at her. “Xingxing, I’m content with now.”
I love you, whether you’re 17 or 27—or even 87. You’ll always be Zhu Xingyao.
Forever on the same household register.
Sharing a coffin after death.
Carrying my surname.
Once again moved, Zhu Xingyao hugged him tightly, looking up: “Tu Ge, where did you stand back then?”
The night breeze rustled the leaves, casting dappled shadows. Jiang Tu led her to the edge of the grove, beneath the farthest tree. “Here.”
Zhu Xingyao turned and wrapped her arms around his neck, tiptoeing to kiss his chin.
Jiang Tu bent down, capturing her lips. He chuckled: “It feels strange, like kissing 17-year-old you.”
“Then I’m 17 now,” she murmured, planting a soft kiss on his lips. “Tu Ge, I love who you are now too. In high school, you never said you liked me, never dared to approach me. But I want you to know—you were wonderful back then, always.”
Jiang Tu hugged her tightly, their embrace illuminated by the starry lights.
They had a book.
A song.
A movie.
And countless irreplaceable memories, secrets untold.
All that was lost returned in the best way possible.
The best beginning in life is standing shoulder to shoulder with the stars, letting the moon chase after you.
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