Qicheng grinned, accepting her answer.
"Me too. It's like our own little world."
As the days turned into weeks, Yingying's secret remained safe.
Her mother had insisted on this life of anonymity after a series of threats against their family.
Living in a middle-class neighborhood was part of the strategy to keep her safe, away from the prying eyes and potential dangers that came with their family's wealth and status.
Yingying had grown accustomed to this life, finding solace in its simplicity and the genuine connections she formed.
One evening, as they walked home from the bookstore, Qicheng turned to her with a thoughtful expression.
"Yingying, do you ever think about the future? Like, what you want to do when you grow up?"
Yingying considered his question carefully.
"I do. I want to help people, make a difference in their lives. My parents always said that with great power comes great responsibility."
Qicheng nodded, impressed by her maturity.
"That's a big ambition for someone our age."
Yingying shrugged, a playful smile tugging at her lips.
"Well, I guess I'm just a big thinker."
They shared a laugh, but Yingying's thoughts remained on her future. She knew that one day, her true identity would come to light, and with it, the responsibilities and expectations she had been shielded from.
For now, though, she cherished the freedom to be a simple kid, to enjoy the moments of innocence and friendship that defined her days.
At home, Yingying's mother watched her daughter with a mixture of pride and concern. She knew the challenges Yingying would face as she grew older, the delicate balance between their hidden life and the world they truly belonged to.
But for now, she was content to see her daughter happy, surrounded by friends who loved her for who she was, not for the name she carried.
One night, Yingying's mother sat with her, brushing her long black hair before bed.
"Yingying," she said softly, "remember, you are special not because of where you come from, but because of who you are."
Yingying looked up at her mother, her eyes filled with understanding.
"I know, Mom. I promise I'll always stay true to myself, no matter what."
Her mother smiled, kissing the top of her head.
"That's all I ask, my darling."
As Yingying drifted off to sleep, she felt a sense of peace. Her secret was safe, her friendships strong, and her future, though uncertain, was filled with promise.
For now, she would enjoy the simplicity of her life, savoring the moments of joy and the bonds of friendship that made every day special.