Early morning was one of the few cool times. Once nine o’clock hit, the scorching heat would make life unbearable. In the small woods of No.7 High, summer insects chirped with indescribable sounds, as if welcoming the school sports meet.

Teams from each class descended grandly from the upper floors. The scene was magnificent. Middle school and high school were in separate buildings, but the unified sports meet time made it feel even more imposing.

No.7 High’s track was a standard 400 meters. Long-distance runners had to complete ten laps—a big challenge for these sophomores.

Though few participated in individual events, everyone had a chance to shine thanks to many team events.

But one person was an exception. Zhou Zhiyi.

His foot injury had worsened. He couldn’t join the marching formation anymore.

Not bad, though. For once, he could fully focus on his mission: finding beautiful girls.

Zhou Zhiyi consoled himself this way and headed to the convenience store.

He hadn’t eaten breakfast. He was completely free now—no need to rush in the morning. Plus, he wanted instant noodles. His family would never allow such junk food for breakfast.

“Watching beauties while eating noodles—what a comfy life,” he muttered mockingly as he walked to the store.

Inside, he heard a timid voice: “Um, sorry. I didn’t realize my card was empty.”

He saw a petite, adorable girl.

Someone else skipping the opening ceremony like me?

Zhou Zhiyi thought this and proactively handed his student card. “Swipe mine.”

“B-but I can’t pay you back…” the girl stammered, looking like a startled kitten.

Still, cute.

“No problem, it’s just a little…” Zhou Zhiyi started, then noticed the huge pile of snacks in her hands. He doubted if he’d have enough left for his noodles.

“S-sorry! Don’t bother,” she said, hurriedly putting snacks back as if guilty.

“Are you buying or not!” the store auntie shouted, pushing Zhou Zhiyi to pay.

“Buying, buying!” Zhou Zhiyi grabbed a bucket of Lao Tan Sour Cabbage Beef Noodles. “Ring it all up together.”

Seeing over forty yuan deducted, his heart ached. He had cash, but it was useless at school. Recharging the card needed at least fifty yuan. Now only three yuan left—just enough for a drink…

“S-sorry!” After payment, the girl gave him a perfect 90-degree bow.

“No worries. Schoolmates help each other,” he said, though it felt fake. He wouldn’t do this for a guy, or even a beauty normally. But he felt kinship—both skipping the formation.

“I’m Chu Hui from Class 6, Grade 11. I’ll pay you back!” she declared formally, like a solemn vow.