ature's wonders and bounties.

“Brother Le, do you think we’ll return home after graduation? Grandpa has enchanted me with tales of majestic mountains and mysterious valleys,” Liu Xiaoyan asked, leaning her head on a bench by the campus river.

“No, I plan to head to the southern gate of our country to seek gold. I want to be a trailblazer in the economic development zones!” Fu Le extended his arms, filled with aspiration.

“But I want to follow Grandpa’s footsteps, exploring deep forests and searching for resources. The excitement of adventure is far more exhilarating than the world of commerce,” Liu Xiaoyan countered, picking a willow leaf from the nearby tree. “But my dad insists that I must return home. East Village raised me, and one must repay kindness.” Her bright eyes dimmed as she said this.

“Helping Uncle out in the village isn’t a bad idea. I just wonder which lucky guy will marry my sister Yan,” Fu Le remarked, trying to lighten the mood as he noticed her growing sadness.

“I won’t marry just anyone! If I do marry, it will be to someone like you, Brother Le, who cares for and cherishes me,” Liu Xiaoyan replied firmly.

“Yan, I’m your brother, and you’re looking for a husband. As your brother, it’s my duty to care for you, but a husband is someone you take care of. Isn’t that how it is with my mother and aunt?” Fu Le said, amused.

“Fu Le, you’re so old-fashioned! Nowadays, men and women are equal; no one should be the other’s caretaker like that. You sound like a chauvinist! Haven’t you read romance novels? In them, the male protagonist always pampers the female lead. Have you forgotten everything you learned in university?” Liu Xiaoyan scolded him, leaving Fu Le bewildered by her sudden outburst.

“I'm just teasing! With a beautiful princess like you, I’m sure a whole line of suitors will follow behind, white horses and black horses alike,” Fu Le quickly reassured her with a smile.

“Pfft!” Liu Xiaoyan laughed, her anger dissipating into a radiant smile filled with affection. Fu Le wiped the light sweat from his forehead, noting the undeniable capriciousness of girls.

“Brother Le, if one day no one wants to marry me, will you take me in?” Liu Xiaoyan looked directly at Fu Le.

“Yes! If you wish to be with me, I’ll take care of you forever,” Fu Le declared without hesitation.

“No take-backs! I might just stay single for life,” Liu Xiaoyan giggled as she dashed back to the dorm.

“What do you mean forever single? I won’t be able to take you and my future wife together! This girl says the craziest things. But really, if she stays single, she’ll stay with me,” Fu Le muttered with a wry smile.

Close to the provincial university was the "Maple Leaf Café," a favorite spot for Liu Xiaoyan who enjoyed its tranquility. She loved reading, liste

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