Darkness spread across the sky, a bright moon hanging overhead and casting soft beams of light. Though people often said the stars were countless, Zhou Zhiyi couldn’t see many right now.

He’d already run three laps around the playground but still hadn’t spotted Qin Huan. After school, she’d actually gone to ask questions first, telling him to wait at the field. Zhou Zhiyi obediently came like a pet. Standing around felt too awkward, so he joined others in running.

This body was surprisingly fit—he felt no tiredness after three laps. With his old body, he’d be panting heavily by now.

Just as he thought that, Qin Huan ran toward him.

“Sorry for making you wait so long.”

She pressed her hands together in apology and bowed slightly. Maybe it was the sports uniform, but her ample chest looked especially alluring as she bent.

“It’s fine,” Zhou Zhiyi said, face flushing as he stared at her. “We’re close, right?”

The uniform hugged Qin Huan’s curvaceous figure, radiating a tempting aura. Zhou Zhiyi couldn’t look away, yet felt utterly flustered.

“Let’s run then.”

Qin Huan smiled at him. Zhou Zhiyi forced a stiff grin back, like a blockhead.

*Relax. If she notices, I’m doomed.*

He muttered to himself, clearing his head. He kept running, hot summer wind brushing past. Even the breeze felt warm.

Ah, Qin Huan’s delay wasn’t just about questions—she’d changed clothes too. Zhou Zhiyi felt relieved, the air suddenly fresher. Speaking of air, he seemed wrapped in a cloud of fragrance. His nose filled with a soft, gentle scent mixed with a hint of her girlish aroma. He ran awkwardly, but jogging didn’t need focus, so he managed. Until—

*Clap!*

A sharp clap startled him mid-stride.

“What was that for?”

“What? You weren’t focused while running,” Qin Huan teased, making a silly face. “Careful, or you’ll come last at the sports meet.”

“All the athletic stars are competing at the district level this year. Even if I trip, I won’t be last.”

“…” Qin Huan stared at him, speechless. “You’re so boring.”

“I’m just stating facts.”

“Rascal, wanna bet on it?”

“I’m underage. No gambling.”

As soon as he said it, a firm punch landed on his head. Qin Huan’s strength wouldn’t draw blood, but it stung!

“No dodging.”

“Fine. What’s the bet?”

“If your 4x100 relay team wins first place, I’ll treat you to a meal. If not, you treat me. Deal?”

*This feels like I’m getting the better end. Plus, it’s a chance to ditch the protagonist…*

Zhou Zhiyi thought it but complained aloud, “Why not long-distance running? The 4x100 isn’t up to me alone!”

“Because I’m competing too, idiot!”

“I know you are…” Zhou Zhiyi paused, realization dawning. “Wait—you’re in the mixed-gender 4x100?”

“Ugh, use what little brain you have left!”

“Alright, I accept.” Zhou Zhiyi hesitated. “You won’t cheat me, will you?”

“I’m not dumb enough to embarrass myself at the meet just to save a meal.”

“Then it’s settled. You’re buying.” Zhou Zhiyi waved. “See you later.”

“‘See you later’? Rascal, wait for me!”

Zhou Zhiyi suddenly sprinted ahead, catching Qin Huan off guard. She chased after him, annoyed.

Still, his stamina was terrifying. After three laps, he could still burst forward like this—almost like an athletic star. Not bad for a sporty side character’s bonus…