On a romantic day like today, couples usually head to the bustling downtown areas for celebrations.
Especially in places like Aoyuan Plaza and Century Street—two of Jianghai City's busiest spots. The crowds are huge today.
The reason is simple: these areas are surrounded by countless hotels and inns, so couples don't have to worry about not finding a place to stay at night.
Yusha Bay Park, on the other hand, isn't very famous in Jianghai City. Today, it's even quieter due to the special occasion.
The deserted beach feels incredibly lonely, with hardly any kids flying kites around. All you see are endless stretches of sand and rolling waves.
The cold sea breeze makes it feel even more isolated, like being cut off from the world.
"How about we drive to Aoyuan Plaza instead?"
Shen Lang tentatively suggested.
Feeling guilty for bringing Li Liusi to such a quiet place on their first Qixi Festival together, Shen Lang wanted to make up for it.
"No need. This is fine."
Li Liusi shook her head gently, holding Shen Lang's arm.
Li Liusi has always lived quietly in her own little world. She doesn't like troubling others or being in noisy, crowded environments.
That's why she suggested coming to such a quiet place for the Qixi Festival.
In simple terms, she just wanted to be alone with Shen Lang in a peaceful spot.
Shen Lang playfully teased, "Who would've thought you're so romantic, even though you usually seem so aloof. You know how to enjoy a couple's world."
Li Liusi blushed and didn't say anything. That was actually how she felt.
"Let's take a stroll along the beach."
Shen Lang took Li Liusi's soft hand, walking on the fine sand while braving the cool sea breeze towards the endless horizon.
The weather was nice today, just a bit chilly by the beach.
Luckily, they were dressed warmly and walking close together, so it didn't feel too cold.
With Shen Lang constantly chatting away and Li Liusi patiently listening, the conversation flowed.
When Shen Lang shifted the topic to her, Li Liusi, who wasn't very social, would get anxious about how to answer.
"I remember you have a younger sister, right? What's her name?"
Shen Lang asked curiously, "Is she still back home or in Jianghai now? Who's taking care of her?"
"Her name is Li Sihui. She's still in kindergarten back home, but she'll start first grade after the New Year."
Li Liusi replied, "Right now, my cousin is helping to take care of her, and I send money to my cousin every month."
"I see."
Shen Lang paused for a moment and tentatively asked, "Do you miss your sister? Maybe you should bring her to Jianghai City."
"No need. The cost of living in Jianghai City is too high, and school fees are expensive."
Li Liusi shook her head immediately and then said with a smile, "Shen Lang, I know you care about me, but since you helped pay for Grandma's medical expenses, my life isn't so bad anymore."
"Well, it's not easy being a good person, right?"
Shen Lang shrugged and smiled, "Alright, just do what you think is best. If you need my help with anything in the future, just let me know."
"Yeah, thanks."
Li Liusi responded softly, thanking him tentatively.
"No problem."
Shen Lang waved it off casually, slipping his hand into his pocket and turning off his phone, which was vibrating despite being on silent.
"No problem?"
Li Liusi's expression dimmed a bit, recalling how Shen Lang had avoided talking about their relationship earlier and how he hadn't scolded her as usual.
...
Like with Su Lexuan last time, Shen Lang and Li Liusi strolled along the beach until they reached a rocky area and stopped.
"Alright, let's head back. I'll take you somewhere further next time."
Shen Lang checked the time; it was almost noon, and Su Lexuan had messaged multiple times on WeChat.
If they didn't end their date soon, Su Lexuan might come over to look for them.
Li Liusi stood in place, her head down and lost in thought.
"What's wrong?"
Shen Lang looked at Li Liusi's face.
Suddenly, Li Liusi kissed him unexpectedly, her awkward and inexperienced kiss catching Shen Lang off guard.
Not only that, she held Shen Lang's wrist and pressed his hand against her body.
In an instant, Shen Lang felt an unparalleled softness.
It seemed Li Liusi wasn't ready to let the day end on such a low note. She was making bold moves, and Shen Lang found himself caught up in the moment.
The passionate kiss lasted for several minutes, leaving Li Liusi feeling weak and leaning against Shen Lang. Her eyes, filled with desire and shyness, began to tear up.
"Shen, Shen Lang, do you like me?"
Shen Lang was still puzzled about why Li Liusi confessed her feelings twice today.
After a quick mental review, he realized why Li Liusi was so concerned about their relationship.
Li Liusi always seemed sweet and naive, but she was a top student who scored 610 in the college entrance exam.
Shen Lang's obvious attempts to change the subject and not scolding her like usual were clear signs that he was avoiding their relationship. Li Liusi, being a girl without much confidence, must have noticed.
"Of course I like you!"
Shen Lang answered decisively.
Li Liusi was stunned for a moment before quickly asking, "Then, can you be my boyfriend?"
"Sure!"
Shen Lang held Li Liusi's hand firmly and nodded.
Li Liusi stared for a while before smiling through her tears and saying, "I thought you didn't like big things..."
"Come on, how could I not like it?"
Shen Lang chuckled and reassured her, "We already confirmed our relationship, so why are you so worried?"
"I'm sorry..."
With Shen Lang's serious response, Li Liusi felt a bit guilty and realized she might have been too sensitive.
In this ambiguous atmosphere, a heartfelt kiss always beats comforting words.
When Shen Lang kissed Li Liusi again, his hands were restless.
Li Liusi, no longer shy, boldly showed her affection, accepting Shen Lang, who was occasionally improper but always considerate.
This pure girl had completely accepted this sometimes mischievous but thoughtful guy.