The campus at night had a livelier, more vibrant atmosphere than usual. Perhaps it was due to the upcoming welcome concert. but the whole school seemed to be filled with a cheerful mood. High school typically lacks entertainment activities, and moments like these were precious. Students took the opportunity to laugh and let loose, and even the air seemed lighter and more playful. The sounds of instruments and singing from the music and rehearsal rooms intertwined, marking the start of the party.
After dinner, Su Feiyan returned to the classroom. Teacher Chen had mentioned he would give the class an energizing pep talk before the party began. Just as Su Feiyan had barely sat down, Teacher Chen quickly walked in.
"I know everyone is excited," Teacher Chen's voice was firm, "This is the first year they've allowed the third-year students to participate in the welcome party. A few of you are performing, and I hope you all can bring your best selves to make this evening even more spectacular! Now, let me announce the order of performances and which students are involved."
The classroom suddenly fell silent, everyone listening intently.
"The final performance," Teacher Chen paused, glancing toward Su Feiyan, "Will be a piano performance by our own Su Feiyan."
Su Feiyan froze for a moment, clearly surprised. Being the last performance was a big challenge for the performer. After a long evening, the audience would be tired, and it was hard to keep their attention unless the final performance was truly extraordinary. He felt a slight tightness in his chest, and his mind raced with nerves.
"Alright, it's about time," Teacher Chen looked around, "Let's head to the auditorium!"
As soon as he finished speaking, the students jumped to their feet and rushed out the door.
"Slow down! No running!" Teacher Chen called out from behind, "There are lots of people, be careful!"
Su Feiyan also stood up, walking out of the classroom with his roommates. Along the way, many classmates cheered him on.
"Su Feiyan, good luck! We can't wait for your performance!"
"Don't be nervous, we're all waiting to see you shine!"
The warmth of these kind words lifted Su Feiyan's spirits, but what touched him most was the soft "Good luck" from Lin Xi.
Her voice was soft and gentle, like a breeze, which calmed his nerves and made him feel a bit more at ease.
As they neared the auditorium, Teacher Chen suddenly patted Su Feiyan on the shoulder, his tone full of trust: "Relax and perform well. Surprise everyone with your talent!"
"Thank you, Teacher Chen." Su Feiyan nodded, trying his best to calm down.
The auditorium was already packed to capacity, and the murmur of conversations filled the air. Everyone's faces were filled with anticipation. Su Feiyan found his seat, which was conveniently next to Lin Xi.
"Are you nervous?" Lin Xi whispered.
"What did you say?" Su Feiyan asked, as he couldn't hear clearly with all the noise around them. Lin Xi's voice was as soft as a gust of wind.
"I asked—" Lin Xi leaned closer, her voice gently brushing his ear, "Are you nervous?"
The soft breath against his ear made Su Feiyan's ears flush, and his face turned red. He stammered, "Y-yeah, a little."
Lin Xi quietly responded with an "Mm," and didn't say more, instead pulling out a handful of candies from her pocket and placing them in his hand.
"You really like giving me candy, huh?" Su Feiyan smiled quietly, feeling a warmth in his chest.
Just then, a bright voice came from behind him: "Big brother! Big brother!"
Su Feiyan turned around, only to be tightly hugged by his younger sister, Su Feiya.
"Ah, you're suffocating me!" He laughed helplessly, "Feiya, let go a little!"
"Alright, alright, let go of your brother!" Their mom's voice came from nearby, "Or he won't have the energy to perform!"
Feiya pouted but finally let go, though she still insisted on sitting next to Su Feiyan, chatting nonstop.
"Big brother, mom and dad specially came to see your performance! I know you're going to be amazing!"
Dad chuckled and added, "Son, are you ready? Feiya's been talking about it for a whole week."
"My big brother's definitely going to be the best! Right, Lin Xi?" Feiya blinked her bright eyes at Lin Xi.
"Mm, he'll be great," Lin Xi nodded gently, a soft smile on her face.
Mom also spoke up: "Lin Xi, have you ever heard Su Feiyan play the piano before?"
"A few times, in the music room," Lin Xi answered shyly.
Before they could say anything else, the lights on stage suddenly lit up. The host stepped onto the stage, microphone in hand, and with a bright voice announced: "Welcome to the Guanghui High School Welcome Party! Let's begin this unforgettable night!"
The auditorium erupted in applause as the event officially began.