"My planned tomato juice scene didn’t even unfold! You saw right through it," Wang Ruzhi muttered.

"Should I report you to the school authorities? Maybe they’ll give you an innovation award?"

"Liu Xiaoyan, please spare me! If the school finds out, I’ll be expelled for sure." Wang Ruzhi begged, trailing behind her.

"I might consider it, depending on your performance."

"What should I do? Liu Xiaoyan, just tell me! I’m willing to do anything for you," Wang Ruzhi vowed, pounding his chest.

"This is your own choice. I didn’t force you," Liu Xiaoyan said, a sly smile briefly flashing across her face. 

"Let me ask, is your dad really rich?"

"Yes, yes, my old man says as long as money can solve the problem, it’s not a problem at all," Wang Ruzhi bragged, puffing out his chest when mentioning his father, whose sponsorship allowed him to study at the school.

"Then you go fetch Tong Laidi. You’ll cover all his educational expenses," Liu Xiaoyan demanded, turning to Wang Ruzhi. Mentioning Tong Laidi visibly troubled Wang Ruzhi.

"I won’t force you to do anything, but be ready for a call from the school office tomorrow," Liu Xiaoyan said, turning away.

"I’ll do it! Alright?" Wang Ruzhi gritted his teeth and called out. Liu Xiaoyan stopped, looked at him, and tilted her head.

"This is your decision?"

"Helping my rival, I have a condition," Wang Ruzhi admitted.

"Name it."

"Smile at me and agree to let me treat you to KFC!" Liu Xiaoyan squinted at him with a half-smile before hopping away, hands behind her back.

"Don’t forget to buy two portions!" Liu Xiaoyan’s voice echoed.

"Wow, this happiness came too suddenly! Liu Xiaoyan, is it okay if I just watch you eat?" Wang Ruzhi shouted after her.

"I agree!" she responded.

By the lakeside, under a lamp, Fu Le, and Liu Xiaoyan devoured drumsticks while Wang Ruzhi stared dreamily, swallowing his envy. He cursed himself for not buying three portions; then, he could’ve enjoyed a meal with his goddess. Wang Ruzhi lingered, afraid that leaving would let slip an opportunity to be close to his long-admired Liu Xiaoyan.

Although he had often peeped at her from a distance, this close encounter, with her permission, was the first. Wang Ruzhi cherished the moment.

"I feel awkward, Yanzi, what’s going on?" Fu Le asked quietly. After Liu Xiaoyan recounted the events, Fu Le burst into laughter. Wiping his tears, he beckoned Wang Ruzhi over.

"See if there are any snacks girls like, and buy some for us to share," Fu Le suggested.

"Thank you, thank you, brother-in-law!" Wang Ruzhi replied gratefully, leaving.

"Sister Yanzi, today I truly understand how love can make people foolish! But keep an eye on this Wang Ruzhi; I didn't realize he was such a big-hearted romantic! Haha!" Fu Le laughed heartily, and Liu Xiaoyan 

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