After returning, life resumed its normal routine. With exam season approaching, she became too busy to think about anyone, immersed in seemingly insignificant emotions. When Si Ping left, Xiang Yu didn't even see him off because she had classes. She wondered if he would complain about the lack of farewell. Occasionally, when Xiang Yu was exhausted from studying, she would think about these people for a moment, even though she hadn't seen Lu Heng in two weeks. She gently pressed her temples. Life seemed to have many moments of pain and confusion, but indulging in them didn't lead to any progress. Only by actually doing something, rather than just thinking, could one feel more grounded. It was like life itself—when busy with daily tasks, there was always a sense of hope.
Before the winter break, Xiang Yu contacted a company that had given her a business card at an exhibition, inquiring if she could work there for some time during the break. The person who answered the phone was very polite, saying they needed to verify internally and took down her phone number. Xiang Yu felt her chances were slim, but since it was hard to find a part-time job during the winter break and she didn't have any financial issues, she thought about taking her grandmother on a trip. After all, they usually spent the Spring Festival alone. Her father would visit one day during the holiday, usually alone, leave some money, sit for a while, and then leave. Her relationship with her father had become very distant. Sometimes she wondered if, when she was very young and the family was still together, her father had loved her too. But now, after so many years, her memories had blurred, and she no longer seemed to expect parental love. Perhaps she had grown up enough not to need it, or maybe God had given her her grandmother, the dearest person in her life, so she never felt lacking in family affection.
Xiang Yu discussed with her grandmother about spending the New Year in a warmer southern place. The old lady was very happy but also worried about the money, needing Xiang Yu to persuade her for a long time. Finally, they chose Beihai, planning to stay there for a week and visit the nearby islands. Xiang Yu then started researching places to visit, transportation options, good food, and accommodations. Her grandmother was as happy as a child, chattering for a long time even at bedtime.
The next day's pleasant surprise was a call from the foreign trade company Xiang Yu had contacted, offering her a three-week internship starting the following week. The pay was 150 yuan per day, with lunch provided, and the company would offer subsidies if she needed to go out on business. Xiang Yu was overjoyed and, after asking about the company's attendance times and dress code, promised to report on time and work diligently next week.
When Lu Heng came to see Xiang Yu, she was listing things to note for her work the following week. She briefly explained her holiday plans to him. After listening, Lu Heng complained, "Where do I fit in? Did you not set aside any time for me during your break?" Xiang Yu suddenly realized she hadn't actually allocated any holiday time for Lu Heng, feeling very embarrassed. She quickly tried to make amends, saying, "I'll use my internship money to treat you to a meal." Lu Heng didn't reply but looked very unhappy. Xiang Yu quickly reached out to soothe his back, "It was my mistake, focusing on myself without considering your feelings. Don't be mad, okay? We'll find a way to make it up, alright?" Seeing her bright eyes looking at him, Lu Heng couldn't bear to blame her. He remembered what he had come to tell her and asked, "Next week, our old soccer team members are having a reunion. I want you to come with me." Xiang Yu actually disliked participating in such events, especially with people she wasn't familiar with. In her high school days, apart from Lu Heng, there wasn't anyone she was close to. But this time, she readily agreed, "What day? I'll mark it down. Is it for dinner? I have work next week, but I can come directly after work, is that okay?" she asked earnestly. "It's next Saturday. First, we'll have dinner, then maybe go for tea, play cards, or sing karaoke," Lu Heng explained. "No problem, what time will you pick me up?" Xiang Yu asked. "At 10:30," Lu Heng replied. Xiang Yu smiled at him and saluted, saying, "Yes, sir."