Early the next morning, Su Zelin got up early.

Today he has to report to college.

Having experienced a second departure from home in his life, his feelings were still quite complex.

He was both attached to the warmth and love of home, and excited about the vast world outside.

He paced around the room, always feeling like he might have forgotten something.

Actually, his mom had already packed everything neatly for him last night—the important ID card and admission notice, and even the insignificant toothbrush and slippers, as Zhao Lixia didn't trust her forgetful son to handle his luggage properly.

Suddenly thinking of something, Su Zelin opened the drawer and found his third-year high school Chinese book.

As soon as he opened it, a photo fell out.

The photo was taken with Qin Shiqing and others on Graduation Day. Later, a friend went to the photo studio, developed some, and gave them to close friends like Xiaoyanzi and Qin Shiqing.

This particular photo was a picture of him and Qin Shiqing on the campus lawn.

The two sat back to back, their youthful faces beaming with bright smiles.

After hesitating for a while, Su Zelin put the Chinese book back, but carefully placed the photo in the suitcase's inner layer.

After seventeen years, we can no longer spend our school days together, rain or shine.

Let this photo take your place and continue to accompany me!

...

After having breakfast at home, he dragged his luggage downstairs.

Su Zelin also brought along that kapok guitar.

Guitars and cigarettes are a boy's best friends, always there for him, so he must bring them along.

The Qin family was already waiting in the courtyard.

"Son, when you get to Lin'an, if there's anything you're not used to, just let Mom and Dad know anytime!"

Zhao Lixia's eyes were moist.

Actually, she knew that Su Zelin adapted well; she just couldn't bear to part with her son.

Looking back, he was once a little baby needing constant care, and today he's leaving the protection of his parents to soar on his own. While it brings comfort, it also leaves parents saddened.

"Got it, Mom!"

Su Zelin also felt a bit heavy-hearted.

He longed for freedom, but that didn't mean family affection was weak.

On the contrary, Su Zelin valued family greatly. Precisely because of this, he was deeply remorseful after having a falling out with his parents in his past life, living in regret every day.

"Zelin, you've grown up. The world outside is fascinating, and going out to see it is a good thing!"

Su's dad wasn't as sentimental and offered more encouragement.

"But remember one thing, with Mom and Dad not by your side, don't lose yourself!"

"Mm, Dad!"

Su Zelin nodded emphatically.

In his past life, he lost himself, but fortunately, destiny granted him another chance!

The pursuit of fame and fortune was nonexistent as he had long grown tired of it.

For him, the biggest problem was still in the realm of emotions.

To be loyal to one woman, Su Zelin admitted was very hard for him, even if that person was his beloved childhood sweetheart.

If it were that easy, he and Qin Shiqing would have been loving and happy till old age in his past life, and this rebirth would not have existed.

The feeling of novelty was engraved in his bones, innately present.

Like a person with a wild, unbridled spirit secured in their soul, even if you tether it with reason, it still ultimately breaks free of its reins.

However, what I can promise the two elderly is that I will never hurt Qin Shiqing again!

On the Qin family's side, Liu Sufen was already in tears.

"Shiqing, while you're away, you must take good care of yourself. The weather will soon cool down, wear more clothes, and remember to cover yourself at night!"

Children are forever children in a mother's eyes. No matter how sensible and well-behaved Qin Shiqing is, Granny Qin still couldn't set her mind at ease.

"Mom, I will!"

Qin Shiqing's eyes were also reddened.

"Alright, alright, what are you crying about. Our daughter going to college is a good thing, especially with Zelin looking after her!"

Even though his little girl was leaving, Qin Daqing also felt a bit sad, but managed to keep his emotions in check.

"Yes, yes, I should be happy. Our Shiqing has grown up, entered such a great university, not an easy feat!"

Liu Sufen wiped her eyes but still felt a little heartache.

The only comfort was that Qin Shiqing would have Su Zelin with her in Lin'an. The Su family's son was reliable and would surely ensure her daughter's safe journey.

As they spoke, the group left the alley, encountering many neighbors either buying groceries, walking dogs, or playing with birds, all greeting them warmly.

"Oh, today Zelin and Shiqing are leaving for Lin'an!"

"In the blink of an eye, the two kids have grown up and are attending university. Time really flies!"

"..."

Both families nodded and responded to greetings all the way, reaching the bus stop near the alley entrance.

Su Zelin and Qin Shiqing both insisted that their parents not send them to the train station, to avoid making them more upset when they saw them boarding the train, so they said their farewells at the bus stop.

Everyone hoped the bus would take longer to arrive, but eventually, it appeared in the distance.

"Dad, Mom, I'm leaving!" Su Zelin patted his chest, "Don't worry, I'll achieve something in college!"

"Come on now, we don't expect you to be so outstanding; just stay safe and sound!"

Zhao Lixia's eyes were blurred with tears, supplementing, "Of course, preferably, you won't fail any subjects!"

Su Zelin was speechless.

Mom, your words make it seem like I will definitely fail.

Do you really not have any faith in your son!

...

The bus started, and through the rear window, several adults could still be seen continuously waving.

"Phew!"

Su Zelin let out a breath.

Honestly, he never felt comfortable in situations like the one earlier.

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