Only the Brave II: The Guardian

Chapter Thirteen: A Special Gift

The teacher was eloquently lecturing at the podium in the classroom, and most students were listening attentively. Graduation was just around the corner, and every student wanted to get into a good school. Of course, this didn't apply to the slackers. A girl sitting by the window had her chin rested on her hands, ostensibly "listening carefully," but who knew that her mind was already wandering elsewhere? This girl was Zhao Mengxue, and at the moment, she couldn't settle down. The exam was approaching, so why hadn't Lan Qing come back to school yet? His leave had been too long. She would have to ask Xiao Jing about it after school.

"Zhao Mengxue, please continue reading from where we left off," the teacher called out, snapping Mengxue back to reality. She hesitantly stood up, and Xiao Jing nudged her gently, whispering, "Page 48, the third natural paragraph." With no time to think much, Mengxue grabbed her textbook and began reading aloud.

"Very good, next time pay attention during class and don't daydream," the teacher remarked as Mengxue sat down with a red face. "Mengxue, what's wrong? Are you not feeling well? You've never zoned out during class before," Xiao Jing asked once Mengxue sat down. "It's nothing, I'll tell you after school. Let's focus on the lecture now," Mengxue replied, trying to calm herself. After all, she had never been criticized before; in the eyes of teachers and her family, she was a model student.

Finally, school was over, and Mengxue, who had never looked forward to dismissal so much, was ready to go. "Mengxue, what's the mystery? Is there a handsome guy involved?" Xiao Jing teased. "No, stop guessing," Mengxue blushed as Xiao Jing couldn't help but tease her further. "Alright, Xiao Jing, why hasn't Lan Qing returned yet? Has something happened?" Hearing it was about her younger brother, Xiao Jing became serious. However, she couldn't tell Mengxue the truth — it had to be kept secret until after the exams, as per Lan Qing's strict instructions. "Lan Qing is probably being prevented from attending school by his parents or has transferred schools," Xiao Jing stammered. "Xiao Jing, we're best friends. Lan Qing is my friend and your brother. Don't lie to me. Besides, you live with them. How could you not know if something's wrong?" Xiao Jing was startled; if Mengxue continued questioning, she might uncover the truth. "Do you not trust me? Why are you so concerned about him? Could it be you have feelings for my younger brother?" Mengxue turned and walked away, leaving Xiao Jing sighing in relief. Before Mengxue disappeared from sight, Xiao Jing called out, "Don't worry, Lan Qing is fine. We'll see him after the exams." Whether Mengxue heard or not, she turned and vanished from Xiao Jing's view.

In fact, if Mengxue had thought back to the day of the incident, she could have found the answer. But she didn't, and thus, this matter remained an unspoken truth between them.

"Achoo!" Lan Xi sneezed a few times, muttering under his breath, "Who's thinking about me?"

The door burst open, and a girl dressed in light blue entered, her hair flowing freely over her shoulders, looking like a princess. "Brother Xi, today's dad's birthday! All the guests are here, how come you haven't come out yet?" It was Ou Yang Ya Meng speaking.

The rest of the story follows a similar pattern, detailing interactions between characters such as Lan Xi, Ya Meng, and others, involving humorous situations, birthday celebrations, gifts, misunderstandings, and growing relationships among peers and siblings. These events unfold with elements of humor, suspense, and heartfelt moments, capturing the dynamics of friendships, familial bonds, and youthful adventures.

As the narrative progresses, it touches upon themes of responsibility, loyalty, and the complexities of teenage life, including romantic interests and social hierarchies within their circles. Each chapter introduces new developments in their lives, showcasing character growth and evolving interpersonal dynamics.

The story continues through various episodes, highlighting significant moments in their return to school, encounters with new friends, and dealing with unexpected challenges. Throughout these experiences, characters like Lan Xi navigate through misunderstandings, learn valuable lessons, and develop stronger ties with those around them.

Ultimately, the tale concludes with a series of events reinforcing themes of camaraderie, personal growth, and embracing change as they prepare for the next chapter in their lives.