The next morning, Xiang Yu was awakened by the sound of knocking. It was the dormitory supervisor asking her to answer the phone. Still somewhat groggy, Xiang Yu looked around and realized she was in her dorm room. She quickly put on her slippers and went to answer the phone.
"Xiang Yu, are you okay?" The voice on the other end, usually sunny and cheerful, was now filled with worry and concern. "I called you several times, but you didn't answer. I had to ask the dorm supervisor to knock on your door."
Feeling a bit embarrassed, Xiang Yu replied, "I'm fine. I had some drinks last night and slept through it." The person on the other end seemed to breathe a sigh of relief and then asked, "Why were you drinking?"
"I told you last night, didn't I? It was a club activity, and everyone had a bit of beer," she said with a slightly playful tone.
"Did you skip breakfast? I'm outside your school now. I'll get you some breakfast. You go wash up, and I'll wait for you at your dorm entrance to take you home," Lu Heng said. Hearing that he had come so early to pick her up, Xiang Yu felt warmth in her heart and couldn't help but smile. "Okay, I'll be down in a minute."
After hanging up the phone, Xiang Yu quickly washed up, dressed, and ran out. Lu Heng was already waiting at the entrance with steamed buns and soy milk in his hands. Xiang Yu couldn't help but smile at him, and they chatted and laughed as they walked out of the school gate. This scene was observed from a distance by Xue Min, whose heart ached with jealousy as he watched the happy couple. How wonderful it would be if that person were his. Xiang Yu and Lu Heng, however, were completely unaware, lost in the simple joy of being together. They walked to the bus stop, where there was a ramen shop that Xiang Yu frequented. Seeing that it was almost noon and Lu Heng might be hungry, she suggested they go have some ramen.
"Seriously?" Lu Heng exaggeratedly exclaimed, "You just had breakfast, and you're sure you can eat more? I've really underestimated your small frame."
"I'm worried you'll be hungry. Show some appreciation," Xiang Yu pouted. They each ordered a bowl of beef ramen. When the ramen was served, Xiang Yu transferred most of her noodles and beef to Lu Heng's bowl and then ate the small portion left in hers. The beef ramen was hot and slightly spicy, causing fine beads of sweat to appear on Lu Heng's forehead after a few bites. Xiang Yu took out her handkerchief from her backpack and gently wiped his sweat. Although many people now use tissues, Xiang Yu still preferred these old-fashioned items. Her handkerchiefs were of plain colors, some with dark plaid patterns, and some with little flowers embroidered at the corners. They were old but always washed clean and neatly folded. Lu Heng smiled foolishly as she wiped his sweat, and Xiang Yu's heart softened even more at the sight. She handed him the handkerchief and said, "Wipe it yourself."
When they couldn't see each other, Xiang Yu didn't feel a particular longing for Lu Heng. But when they were together, it was as if they were the same as before, yet also different. However, Xiang Yu felt truly happy and content.
Lu Heng walked Xiang Yu to her building and arranged to meet again on Sunday.