Jiang Zixuan didn’t stay long at the Shus’ place. He’d only come to check on his best friend—and despite a few unexpected hiccups, mission accomplished.

Before leaving, he asked which university Shu Yuxin had gotten into.

Worth noting: her school was right in Minghai City. As the provincial capital, Minghai ranked among China’s top cities for university density. Strip away the diploma mills, and its academic quality still shone. Shu Yuxin’s acceptance was to Minghai Nanhu New City College—commonly called Nanhu College—a respected second-tier university in the province. Its campus sat conveniently near downtown. But that alone wouldn’t make it a dream school for average high school grads. Nanhu’s real edge? It neighbored Minghai University.

Minghai University was practically the city’s academic crown jewel, consistently ranking top five nationwide. Beyond elite faculty, its campus boasted three famed strengths: scenic beauty, elegant surroundings, and premium facilities—what countless students craved. Nanhu College rode that geographic perk hard. Students mingled freely; joint events were common. Nanhu students even slipped into Minghai lectures—and both schools turned a blind eye. As locals joked: getting into Nanhu was like claiming half of Minghai University.

Why detail this? Simple—Shu Yuxin’s best friend got in too. But Jiang Zixuan hadn’t landed at Nanhu. He’d scored Minghai University proper, earning a full first-year tuition waiver for his stellar grades.

Watching Jiang Zixuan’s smug grin, Shu Yuxin seriously considered smashing a chair over his head.

Of course, he hadn’t come just to flex. Back during college applications, he’d learned Shu Yuxin chose Nanhu. So despite his parents’ objections—and his original plan to study in the capital—he’d resolutely applied to Minghai University instead. Today’s visit? Pure confirmation. Once she verified it, he immediately offered: both schools held orientation tomorrow. He’d drive her.

Mr. and Mrs. Shu were overjoyed. After draining their savings to save their daughter, they’d spent weeks frantically job-hunting to rebuild stability—busier than ever. Without Jiang Zixuan, they’d have sent Shu Yuxin alone. Now? Two traveling together meant safety. The couple’s fondness for Jiang Zixuan grew by the minute.

Unaware of their thoughts, Shu Yuxin faced a new crisis: what to pack.

Staring at the sea of dresses in her wardrobe, she fell into deep thought.

...

Time flew. On another sun-drenched morning, her parents practically shoved her out the door—if they could’ve kicked her, they would’ve.

Backpack slung, suitcase rolling, Shu Yuxin stood at the compound gate, a quiet melancholy settling in.

*Days ago, they called me their “little cotton-padded jacket.” Now I’m just a rag.*

Unconsciously tucking a stray strand behind her ear, she dialed.

“Zixuan, where are you? Here yet?”

“Here. Right in front of you.”

The white coupe across the street rolled down its window. Jiang Zixuan, grinning from the driver’s seat, waved.

Shu Yuxin ended the call blank-faced, pocketed her phone, and wheeled her suitcase over.

He hopped out, popped the trunk, stowed her luggage, then leaned against the car—one hand on the trunk, the other on his hip—regarding her with a faint, unreadable smile.

“...What?” she muttered, unnerved.

“Nothing. You just look really nice today.”

Unlike yesterday, she wore a snug white crop top under a light vest (the breeze was cool), paired with tight jeans that highlighted her figure effortlessly. Her hair flowed sleekly, a tiny hairpin adorning her left temple. Two strands drifted across her chest, swaying gently in the wind—simple, elegant, striking.

“Like I wanted this,” she rolled her eyes. “Mom forced me. Tch—it’s not a blind date. She fussed for hours.”

Jiang Zixuan chuckled, closing the trunk. “You’re a girl now. Gotta mind these things.”

“But mentally, I’m not,” she retorted, sliding into the passenger seat. She tossed her backpack back and sighed. “Wait—this car’s yours?”

“Whose else?” He shut his door, sipped his drink. “Dad got it this summer. Not a big deal—just over six hundred thousand.”

“Like hell it’s not expensive!” She punched his shoulder lightly.

He laughed, about to reply—then froze. *Her family spent everything on medical bills.* His tone softened. “What’s to envy? We’re best friends. My car’s your car. Borrow it anytime.”

Her fist hung mid-air. Blinking, she pressed her lips tight and looked away. “I don’t have a license.”

“Then get one. Short on cash? I’ll lend you.” He started the engine, easing away. “Buckle up first.”

“The seatbelt…” She shot it a grumpy glance, sighed resignedly, and clicked it shut.

The strap pressed across her chest, dividing her full curves into two soft peaks.

“...So weird,” she murmured.

Jiang Zixuan glanced—then quickly looked away, throat tightening.

*Definitely a C-cup.*

But the girl in the passenger seat was his best friend…

If Shu Yuxin wasn’t used to this new reality, neither was Jiang Zixuan.