Full charm points, inherit game assets

Chapter 640 School Uniforms
When I came out of the used bookstore, it was completely dark.

Night falls earlier and is quieter in Jingxian County than in Yancheng.

Liu Qingning specially asked the shop owner for a simple kraft paper bag and carefully packed the picture book inside.

He held it tightly in his arms, as if it were a rare treasure.

The two walked aimlessly for a while.

Liu Qingning seemed to have finally recovered from her emotions and couldn't help but look up at Tang Song beside her.

"Did you draw all of these yourself?"

"Hmm." Tang Song smiled smugly. "Isn't it great? The main reason is that the female lead is beautiful."

"Hmph, you're so glib. So when exactly did you learn to draw?"

"Maybe he was born with talent, but it was suppressed by studying. When he got to university, suddenly 'snap,' his meridians opened up. There's no way around it, that's what genius is. Just like how I used to envy you for not having to study so much and still getting such good grades."

"Tch, so vain." Liu Qingning smiled and gently punched him.

The two chatted as they walked side by side down the familiar street, discussing the changes around the school.

Finally, we stopped in front of a small shop.

Each person ordered a steaming bowl of chicken soup rice noodles.

Tang Song then went to the shop next door that hadn't changed its signboard in over ten years and bought two freshly baked Tujia-style crispy pancakes.

Amidst the rising steam, the two sat in a corner eating rice noodles and flatbread.

Occasionally, their eyes would meet, and the atmosphere would become warmer than ever before.

During the evening rush hour, the store was bustling with people coming and going, and the sound of footsteps constantly filled the air. People would often glance at the group sitting in the corner.

After finishing this dinner filled with memories, the two walked back hand in hand.

Suddenly, a lively musical intro blared from the loudspeaker of a roadside music store.

Immediately following was Su Yu's highly recognizable, ethereal, and melodious voice.

Liu Qingning stopped abruptly, took out her phone and checked the time. "Su Yu's new album is online, it will be released globally at 7 pm tonight."

Tang Song's heart stirred slightly, "Su Yu's new song..."

Liu Qingning skillfully opened the music app to buy a digital album, then pointed to the album cover on her phone screen and exclaimed, "Su Yu is so beautiful! This photo of her by the sea is so evocative."

Tang Song glanced at it and nodded: "It is beautiful."

"What? You seem to really like Su Yu's looks?" Liu Qingning turned her head, her clear eyes carrying a hint of barely perceptible probing.

Tang Song's eye twitched, and he immediately changed the subject: "I'm fine. By the way, do you need headphones? I have some."

"No need." Liu Qingning didn't dwell on the topic any further. She took out her AirPods from her bag and handed one to Tang Song.

Click play.

Her clear voice, like an evening breeze, flowed quietly in their ears.

The melody carries a youthful feel, yet also a sense of alienation and courage that comes with growing up.

Liu Qingning listened quietly, her gaze gradually softening.

To be honest, she is a true fan of Su Yu's songs, having liked him since his Echo days.

If it didn't involve the Tang and Song dynasties, she would be extremely happy to become friends with the other party, and even feel very honored.

Unbeknownst to them, the two had returned to the gate of the No. 1 Middle School.

"Beep beep—" The electric vehicle unlocks.

Just as Tang Song gripped the handlebars, a cell phone rang in his earphones.

Liu Qingning answered the phone and said softly, "Hello? Teacher Li."

On the other end of the phone, the homeroom teacher, Li Gaisu, sounded somewhat embarrassed: "Qingning, it's about that matter from earlier..."

"Oh, what did the school say?"

"Sigh—this is difficult!" Li Gaisu was silent for a moment: "By the way, where are you now?"

"I'm at the main gate of No. 1 Middle School, out for a stroll with Tang Song."

"Oh? That's perfect. I'm at the Zhende Hotel next to the school right now. It's a place that receives alumni from other places. Why don't you come over? We can talk in person."

Liu Qingning paused for a moment, but still agreed, "Okay, I'll go over there."

She knew that Teacher Li was just an ordinary teacher and couldn't make many decisions. Besides, they were teachers with whom she had a good relationship, so she should visit him when she went home.

hang up the phone.

Tang Song asked, "What's wrong? Does Teacher Li need to see you?"

Liu Qingning smiled again and said in a relaxed tone, "It's nothing, it's just that there were some last-minute changes to the guest seating for this school anniversary celebration, and it seems there aren't enough seats..."

She briefly recounted the incident, not taking it too seriously.

"Then let's go to the viewing area, it doesn't matter," Tang Song said with a smile. "However, I haven't seen Teacher Li in a long time either. Let's go see him together."

Unlike his star student Liu Qingning, Tang Song had only average relationships with most of his teachers and had almost no contact with them since graduation.

Looking back now, those faces that once filled him with fear and oppression have all become blurred yet warm memories.

The electric vehicle's headlights turned on, illuminating a small section of the road ahead.

The two slowly drove into the night.

The Zhende Hotel is only a few hundred meters from No. 1 Middle School; you can get there quickly after turning a corner.

This time, the school not only invited many outstanding alumni, but also leaders from the admissions offices of some domestic universities.

These people need to have accommodation arranged.

Therefore, in theory, the school provided accommodation for all guests.

However, since Liu Qingning's home is in the county town, she naturally wouldn't stay in a hotel.

The banquet hall on the left side of the second floor of the hotel was temporarily converted into a reception area for the school anniversary celebration.

The red carpet stretched straight ahead, surrounded by promotional banners.

Follow the signs into the banquet hall.

A lively atmosphere is palpable.

There are already quite a few people inside, of all ages.

They gathered in twos and threes, chatting and laughing.

Tang Song also saw several familiar faces inside, including former classmates and teachers.

"Lime! Over here!" A middle-aged woman with glasses and short hair waved and walked over with a look of surprise.

"Teacher Li!" Liu Qingning greeted her with a smile and hugged her beloved teacher.

Tang Song followed behind, smiling as he said, "Teacher Li, it's been a long time."

Li Gaisu was taken aback at first, then looked him over carefully for a few moments before exclaiming with delight, "Tang Song! I was wondering who was so handsome, it's you! Not bad, you look really energetic now!"

She looked at him, then at Liu Qingning, a relieved smile on her face.

She knew about the subtle, ambiguous feelings between the two boys back in high school. Now it seems they've finally gotten together.

In the blink of an eye, more than seven years have passed, which is truly remarkable.

As the commotion drew the attention of many people, they turned to look.

Most people's attention will first fall on the Tang and Song dynasties.

There was no way around it; even though he was just wearing ordinary winter clothes, his outstanding temperament and appearance still made him stand out.

Immediately afterwards, some familiar teachers came over to greet them.

Of course, the object of their affections is always Liu Qingning.

After all, Tang Song was nowhere near as outstanding as this academic star when he was in high school.

After exchanging pleasantries for a while...

Li Gaisu then pulled Liu Qingning inside and led them to a round table.

"Principal Zhang, Qingning and the others have arrived."

Upon hearing this, Principal Zhang turned around and saw Tang Song. He was taken aback for a moment, then stood up and smiled at Liu Qingning, saying, "Oh, Qingning, welcome to our school's anniversary celebration."

Tang Song raised his eyebrows slightly. The person that Teacher Li called "Principal Zhang" was Zhang Qingguo, the academic affairs director who had left a deep impression on him back then.

This should mean he's been promoted to vice principal.

"Hello, Principal Zhang." Liu Qingning nodded politely.

Zhang Qingguo then looked at Tang Song and said in surprise, "This is... Tang Song? He's changed quite a bit."

"Hello, Principal Zhang."

Zhang Qingguo nodded. "Tang Song seems much more mature than before, haha."

He was deeply impressed by the Tang and Song dynasties.

After all, back then, Liu Qingning was the school's darling, a top student aiming for Tsinghua or Peking University.

Unfortunately, he also had a tendency to fall in love too early, and he often gave this "troublemaker" Tang Song a dressing down.

This time, the school's 50th anniversary celebration is going to cause some trouble again because of the Tang and Song dynasties.

She naturally disliked him even more.

A few brief greetings were exchanged.

Zhang Qingguo quickly got to the point, subtly hinting at the unusual nature of the situation and the difficulties faced by the school.

Liu Qingning smiled and said, "It's alright, Principal Zhang, I understand. We're here to offer our blessings to our alma mater, so it doesn't matter where we sit."

Tang Song stood beside Liu Qingning, listening to their conversation, and couldn't help but smile.

That's how it was in high school; his radiant, unwavering love always protected him and considered his feelings.

Hearing Liu Qingning insist, Zhang Qingguo's expression changed slightly, and he was about to say something.

A teacher from the academic affairs office jogged over and said, "Principal Zhang, Zhao Rui and the others are downstairs and will be up shortly."

"Good, good, good!" Zhang Qingguo perked up and immediately stood up, saying to Li Gaisu, "Teacher Li, please talk to Qingning again. I have an important guest here, so please go and receive him first."

After saying that, he left in a hurry.

Li Gaisu glanced at Tang Song and Liu Qingning, unsure of what to say, and could only helplessly explain the unusual nature of the situation.

Even though No. 1 Middle School is a key local middle school, the principal's administrative rank is only equivalent to that of a deputy section chief.

The vice principal is only at the section chief level.

This time, the leaders coming from the city are rumored to be at the provincial or ministerial level.

The difference in levels is just too huge.

Not only the school, but the entire Jing County was shaken.

For the school, this is a top priority, even more important than the anniversary celebration itself.

Liu Qingning nodded slightly, without saying anything more.

Not long after, a commotion arose at the entrance of the banquet hall.

With a broad smile, Zhang Qingguo personally accompanied the group of people inside.

There were two men standing in the middle.

He was around thirty years old, wearing gold-rimmed glasses, and had a refined and cultured demeanor.

Tang Song glanced at him and immediately recognized him as Zhao Rui, a senior two years their senior. Back then, he was a prominent figure on campus and later got into Tsinghua University.

The other one was completely unfamiliar. He was around forty years old, full of vigor and exuding confidence.

Li Gaisu noticed Liu Qingning's gaze and carefully introduced him to her: "You should all know Zhao Rui. He works in the investment banking department of CICC. He's very capable. You can go and get to know him later."

The man next to him is Li Yunfan, an alumnus from the class of 04, who is the general manager and major shareholder of Maixiangyuan, a well-known food processing company in Jinan.

I heard that Maixiangyuan is preparing for its IPO and has a partnership with CICC.

Mr. Li originally didn't plan to come, but apparently he heard that city leaders were coming, so he decided to come at the last minute.

Li Gaisu paused for a moment, then said, "Qingning, Tangsong, you see, this is the situation now. The school will definitely prioritize these people, so I hope you can understand. I really have no other choice."

Hearing this, Liu Qingning smiled mischievously: "Teacher Li, do you think if we do even better than that senior Li Yunfan now, the school can rearrange the positions?"

Li Gaisu's expression froze, and she awkwardly uttered an "uh".

Liu Qingning stopped teasing her teacher and didn't continue the topic. Instead, she inquired about her teacher's recent work.

Actually, it's a good thing that we're not in the main guest area. Otherwise, it would definitely be all socializing, and we'd have to get up and greet every leader, which would be quite annoying.

With the arrival of Li Yunfan and Zhao Rui, the atmosphere in the banquet hall instantly reached a new climax.

Vice Principal Zhang Qingguo personally led the two to the round table closest to the head of the table. "President Li, I've heard so much about you! Your Maixiangyuan is the pride of Jinan."

"Zhao Rui is truly a promising young man, no wonder he's a top student from our No. 1 High School! You should come back to our alma mater more often and share your experience with us younger students!"

Along the way, alumni and teachers, whether they knew each other or not, would come up to greet us warmly with wine glasses in hand.

Tang Song's gaze remained fixed on Liu Qingning.

Back in Jingxian County, back at No. 1 Middle School, she seemed to have transformed back into that radiant white moonlight, stirring up countless memories for him.

...

It took a while.

Zhang Qingguo finally finished dealing with things over there and came back over.

He asked directly, "How did it go? Are you sure?"

Liu Qingning smiled and said, "Okay, I won't cause any trouble for our school."

Zhang Qingguo seemed to have expected this, "Okay, let's settle on that for now. Also, regarding your speech as a representative... since the location isn't convenient, how about we change the format? Leave a message, and the host can read it later, to avoid any mishaps in the process. As for the speech, we'll arrange for other alumni to give it later."

Li Gaisu's expression changed, and she said urgently, "Principal Zhang, wasn't this... all arranged before?"

Zhang Qingguo's tone became slightly stern, "Teacher Li, the situation is special right now, and everything must prioritize the overall picture. Ensuring the reception of the city leaders goes perfectly is our most important task!"

Seeing that Teacher Li was about to speak, Liu Qingning said directly, "It's okay, then let's leave it at that. I'll send the message to Teacher Li later."

"Well... alright." Li Gaisu could only sigh helplessly.

Of course she knew the real reason behind it.

When the school was initially preparing for the anniversary celebration, it sent out many invitations, but in reality, there were not many distinguished alumni who actually agreed to come back.

Liu Qingning, the former top scorer in the county's college entrance examination and now an AI entrepreneur, is undoubtedly someone who can "gild" the school, which is why she is valued so highly.

But now, with the news that "city leaders may be attending," the scale of the school anniversary celebration has been instantly elevated.

Those "distinguished alumni" who originally didn't care much about the school's anniversary celebration "happened" to have time to come out one after another.

Besides successful businessmen like Li Yunfan, there are many other powerful figures who have risen through the ranks within the system.

For the school leaders, these people are far more valuable than Liu Qingning.

Seizing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform well in front of city leaders and secure more resources and support for the school is what they consider the most important "big picture".

As for Liu Qingning... she'll just have to put up with it for now.

They watched as Zhang Qingguo's figure disappeared back into the bustling center.

Li Gaisu pointed in the direction of Zhao Rui and the others, and said softly, "Qingning, why don't you go over and get to know the other alumni?"

"No need, Teacher Li," Liu Qingning said with a smile. "Today is my birthday, and I haven't had enough fun yet. I'll visit all the senior students during the school anniversary celebration."

"Ok."

"Then we'll be off now. See you the day after tomorrow, Teacher Li."

……

More than 9 o'clock in the evening.

A white electric car slowly drove into the mining community.

The old residential buildings appeared particularly peaceful in the quiet night.

Tang Song brought the car to a steady stop in front of the apartment building.

Liu Qingning jumped off the back seat, yawned, and said in a lazy voice, "I'm so tired after playing all day. I'm going to go to bed early tonight."

"Okay, goodnight." Tang Song leaned down and kissed her on the cheek.

Liu Qingning smiled and returned his smile, saying softly, "I had a very happy day today, thank you, Xiao Song."

Tang Song looked at her bright eyes in the night, then suddenly leaned close to her ear and whispered, "By the way, Qing Ning, do you still have your high school uniform?"

Liu Qingning was stunned for a moment, her face instantly turning red, and she stammered, "What...what lewd things are you thinking about now?!"

"No," Tang Song said innocently. "I just wanted to relive the old times with you more deeply."

"no, do not want!"

"Lime, please grant me this little wish, okay?"

"Oh no! I threw those clothes away a long time ago." Liu Qingning raised her hand and punched him, then turned around and scolded him with her back to him, "Go back and get some sleep, don't overthink things here!"

She took a few steps, then suddenly stopped, turned around, and said in a slightly commanding voice, "Oh, and remember to come see me tomorrow too. Don't wander off."

After saying that, he quickly walked into the building entrance.

Watching her slightly flustered figure, Tang Song shook his head with some regret.

The image of his beloved in her school uniform has always been an obsession for him, and a symbol of his youth.

He stood in the night wind for a moment before turning and leaving.

The streets were quiet, and the night, like a deep river, stretched his shadow long.

Tang Song dialed Liu Jiayi's number as he walked.

Soon, the black Rolls-Royce stopped in front of him.

This time, instead of sitting in the back as usual, he unusually opened the passenger door and got in.

Liu Jiayi glanced at him, said nothing, and slowly started to walk.

Tang Song turned on his phone and connected to the car's Bluetooth system.

A moment later, Su Yu's singing voice flowed slowly through the quiet carriage.

"BGM: If youth has an ending, I wish you would still be by my side. Even if the wind blows away our vows, your smile will still protect me..."

The car slowly drove away from the mining community, and the streetlights outside the car window flashed by one by one.

Tang Song leaned back in his chair and gently closed his eyes.

……

October 19, 2023, Sunday, sunny, 11~18℃.

9 o'clock in the morning.

The winter sun cast a warm golden glow on the old residential buildings in the mining community.

The room was filled with the unique, mundane yet warm atmosphere of early morning life.

"Dad, Mom, hurry up and go. It's been almost half an hour already, you're both so slow!"

Liu Qingning stood at the entrance, adjusting her father Liu Xuemin's coat collar with one hand and pushing her mother Zhang Yunlan out the door with the other.

"We don't know when Tang Song will arrive, so you don't need to wait for him at home. Dad, I gave you enough money in the card, we have to pick out a safe and comfortable car today!"

"Okay, okay, you silly child..."

Urged on by their daughter, the couple, their faces beaming with undisguised joy, finally went out.

This morning, my daughter tossed me a bank card and told them to go out and buy a car.

How could such filial piety not make them happy?

"boom--"

The door was closed, shutting out the sounds from the hallway.

The room fell silent instantly.

Liu Qingning let out a long breath.

She skipped happily into her bedroom.

Inside the room, old-fashioned cast iron radiators were radiating a warm glow.

Above, a set of blue and white school uniforms from Jingxian No. 1 Middle School were neatly draped.

She had searched high and low last night to find this school uniform.

Having been stored in the closet for seven years, it had long since acquired a faint scent of mothballs.

After her parents went to bed, she sneaked into the bathroom like a thief and carefully washed it again with her hands.

Thankfully, the heating is on at home, otherwise, I definitely wouldn't have been able to get anything done this morning.

She reached out, her fingertips gently brushing against the familiar, slightly rough fabric, and then touched the "No. 1 Middle School" badge on her chest, which had long since faded from washing.

Looking at the school uniform that held so many memories of her youth, her cheeks involuntarily flushed.

She bit her plump lower lip and muttered under her breath, "Hmph...you got off easy, you idiot Xiao Song!"

After saying that, she took out a garment steamer from the corner, plugged it in, and began to iron carefully.

I just finished dealing with it and took off my coat.

“Boom, boom—”

A knock on the door, neither too loud nor too soft, suddenly sounded.

Liu Qingning's heart skipped a beat. She walked out of the bedroom and looked through the peephole.

With a click, the door was pulled open a crack from the inside, and she said softly, "Why didn't you call me beforehand?"

"I wanted to give you a surprise."

"Close the door quickly, it's cold outside."

Tang Song smiled and casually closed the door, asking, "Where are your uncle and aunt? I haven't seen them."

“Um…” Liu Qingning brushed her stray hairs from her forehead, her tone slightly playful, “My dad’s Changan Yuexiang is almost falling apart, it breaks down every few days, so he went to look at cars first thing this morning.”

Tang Song raised an eyebrow and said slowly, "So... you're all alone at home now?"

Liu Qingning subconsciously took a step back, crossed her arms over her chest, and tried to look scared, but her bright eyes were full of undisguised laughter. "You... what do you want to do?"

Tang Song smiled and said, "Yes, I do."

"Get lost!" Liu Qingning slapped him, her face flushed, and said, "You wait here, I... I'll go inside and put on some clothes, it's a bit cold."

Before she finished speaking, she turned around and ran into the bedroom, slamming the door shut.

Tang Song shook his head and chuckled, leaning against the sofa armrest, waiting patiently.

at this time.

"Buzz buzz buzz—" The cell phone in my pocket suddenly vibrated.

Shen Yuyan

Upon answering the phone, Tang Song said in a low voice, "Hello, Yu Yan."

"Morning, Boss." Shen Yuyan's usual professional and gentle voice came through the receiver. "Did I disturb you?"

"No, you say."

"Here's the thing, half an hour ago, the Quancheng Municipal Government Office called. Mayor Li Jiping's secretary called personally to confirm your specific schedule for attending the anniversary celebration of Jingxian No. 1 Middle School tomorrow. Mayor Li himself also plans to go to the school. Furthermore, he hopes to have the opportunity to have an informal meeting with you."

Tang Song raised an eyebrow. "The mayor of Jinan?"

“Yes!” Shen Yuyan paused, then added in a shrewd and concise tone, “I’ve checked the recent situation. Quancheng is currently working with Yancheng to develop an industrial cluster for new energy vehicle parts and semiconductor materials. Related industrial funds and park projects have been listed as key municipal projects. Mayor Li’s attitude is probably because he wants to hear your suggestions for the future development of his hometown.”

A sharp glint flashed in Tang Song's eyes, and he chuckled, "Yes, I understand. Okay."

Shen Yuyan hesitated for a moment, then said nervously, "President Tang, this might involve communication with government departments, which could be a bit troublesome. Should I go to Quancheng to meet with Mayor Li first? When he goes to Jing County, I can take him to see you, which will ensure that the situation is under our control."

Her words demonstrated both professionalism and a subtle desire to participate.

At this moment.

A slightly shy voice came from the bedroom: "...Come in."

Tang Song's heart skipped a beat, and he said into the phone, "I'll think about it and get back to you later."

I hung up the phone and pushed open the door.

The next second, the whole person was stunned.

In the bedroom, the soft morning light spilled onto the floor.

Liu Qingning stood in that warm halo of light, wearing a blue and white summer school uniform.

The close-fitting polo shirt was stretched taut by her ample bosom, creating a breathtakingly taut curve.

That oval face, always with a touch of baby fat, pure and lovely, was slightly flushed with shyness.

She stood there quietly, her hands behind her back.

Like a good student who has answered a question correctly and is waiting for the teacher's praise.

The hormones of youth instantly overwhelmed the Tang and Song dynasties.

(End of this chapter)