Can following the rules be called rebirth?

Chapter 270, Chapter 268: A Christmas Eve Without a Countdown (6k)

That's right, a date is only a date when it's just the two of you.

Zhou Mingyuan put her right hand into his coat pocket. Neither of them spoke for a moment, just walking quietly on the campus path lit by streetlights.

"When did you prepare this?"

Finally, Zhong Yujun couldn't help herself. She exhaled a small puff of white mist from her cherry lips into the cold air and asked softly.

"So many random gifts."

She felt a little embarrassed and annoyed at the thought that she had been completely kept in the dark, standing on the stage like a fool, blushing and at a loss for what to do.

"And how can you guarantee I'll get it?"

"That's easy."

Zhou Mingyuan smiled and scratched her palm with his fingertips in response.

"I won't even mention the headphones and power bank. The phone was hard to find, so I had someone bring it back from Hong Kong. I only received it last week."

As for the lottery...

The man paused, his voice tinged with obvious smugness.

"Please, I'm a sponsor. Can't I just decide who wins the prize if I want?"

"The only slip of paper in that entire raffle box contained your seat number."

No matter how many times I draw, it's always you.

"."

Zhong Yujun couldn't help but pout, "Wow!"

"You're so mean!"

The girl wore a coquettish expression, but her heart felt as if it were filled with warm honey, so sweet it was almost overwhelming.

"Why didn't they tell me! I was so scared, my mind went completely blank, I thought I was really that lucky!"

"Telling you wouldn't be surprising enough."

Zhou Mingyuan turned his head to look at her, the streetlights casting tiny specks of light on his eyes, softening his features.

"Like it?"

"like!"

Zhong Yujun stopped and looked up at him intently.

She nodded vigorously, her newly tied ponytail swaying gently.

"extremely like."

No girl could resist all of this.

It's not just the expensive and exquisite gift that I like, but also his meticulous planning, his open manipulation in front of everyone, and the unique attention and romance he shows.

A saying often circulates online these days.

Those who are willing don't need to be taught; those who are not willing cannot be taught.

With such thoughtful care, who could possibly say they don't like it?
"It's just that it's a bit too expensive."

Zhong Yujun cleared her throat and couldn't help but shrug her shoulders.

"Even though I know you're President Zhou now, my senior sister can easily sell thousands of outfits just by doing live-streaming sales."

"Forget about the power bank and earphones, this phone is too expensive."

The girl stuck out her tongue, seemingly wanting to say something but then stopping herself.

Of course she knew how well Jieyou Media was doing now, and how the company was making a fortune every day.

Zhou Mingyuan certainly didn't lack the money for Christmas gifts.

But since she was still in the mindset of a freshman, it was a bit strange for her to receive a five-figure gift.

"What, are you embarrassed to accept it?"

Zhou Mingyuan shook the wrist he was holding and asked in return with a smile.

"A little bit."

“The students who genuinely came to participate in the lucky draw weren’t embarrassed, but you’re always hugging and kissing the sponsors every now and then, what’s there to be embarrassed about?”

The man's narrow passage.

"shameless!"

Zhong Yuyun giggled and playfully punched him with her fist, all her little tantrums dispelled by the joke.

What this guy said actually makes a lot of sense.

"Let's go eat!"

She took his arm, which was tucked into his pocket, and leaned slightly closer to him.

The two held hands and walked side by side toward the brightly lit commercial district outside the school gate.

"Hey, when did you buy a car?"

After hiding it for so long, this was the first time Zhou Mingyuan had driven the Panamera in front of his beloved.

Zhong Yujun stared wide-eyed, carefully examining the streamlined coupe in front of her. She then glanced at Zhou Mingyuan, who remained calm beside her, her clear voice filled with barely suppressed surprise.

However, her understanding of car logos is the same as that of many girls who have just entered college.

This applies only to Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda, and the German Big Three (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi).

Upon seeing the Porsche crest, she didn't react with the usual shock or pupil dilation; she had no concept of this being a million-dollar luxury car.

She just felt that Zhou Mingyuan was quite formidable.

Although in 2014, cars were no longer as scarce and precious as they were in the 90s, and were no longer a symbol of wealth, Zhou Mingyuan was still just a college student.

The fact that a freshman can drive a car on his own demonstrates his exceptional talent and ability.

Although Zhong Yujun had roughly estimated Zhou Mingyuan's income based on her roommate's snippets of information and the number of orders she saw at the MALA ACTIVE Taobao store, she still managed to get a rough idea of ​​his income.

But it's still not enough.

He is a true campus entrepreneurial star. He can skip classes without a care in the world and is the dream sponsor for organizers of all kinds of school activities. They wish they could make him the best he could ever be.
None of these can compare to the impact a car had on Zhong Yujun.

In fact, Bai Yueguang had seen that Buick GL8 that often picked up and dropped off Zhou Mingyuan.

However, in her mind, the business van was He Min's car.

It wasn't until Zhou Mingyuan arrived in a car that was truly his own that she realized how wealthy he was.

Where did the electric scooter go?
"I just bought it recently, mainly because Jiangcheng is too big. I need a means of transportation to get around outside of Optics Valley."

"And I was afraid it would snow today, so I didn't ride my electric bike out."

Zhou Mingyuan gently closed the car door with a muffled thud, shutting out the noise and chill from the outside world.

The world seemed to have been muted, and an ultimate tranquility filled the air.

"."

You call this a mobility scooter?
Not recognizing a car logo is one thing, but it doesn't mean Zhong Yujun lacks discernment.

She took a deep breath, opened the car door, and sat in the passenger seat, feeling the warmth from the leather seat beneath her, as well as its soft yet supportive feel.

Bordeaux red looks high-end.

Not to mention the compass that was specially selected for the car, which was unlike any she had ever ridden in before.

From the tactile and visual experience to the auditory experience, every detail silently tells us that this car possesses a quality and luxury that transcends mere transportation.

"This car is really comfortable."

The girl couldn't help but sigh softly, her gaze following the movement as she looked around the car.

As far as the eye can see, there is a refined center console, buttons that gleam with a metallic sheen, and a high-tech display screen.

Everything was brand new, spotless, and had a cool, woody fragrance.

The smell was so pleasant that it made her feel at ease.

My gaze shifted to the right and suddenly stopped at the bottom of the center console, near the windshield.

There was a passenger sitting there.

A fluffy brown teddy bear doll.

It wasn't big, and it sat there in a cute and endearing way, with bright black glass bead eyes and a small red bow tied around its neck.

It looks out of place with the atmosphere inside the car.

Where did the doll come from?
Zhong Yujun's heart skipped a beat.

Why would he keep such a doll in his car?

This is not like him.

Before a vague idea could form, her gaze was drawn to something else.

Below the rearview mirror hangs an exquisitely crafted amulet.

Silk threads are woven into intricate auspicious knots, with dark tassels hanging below. The material appears to be silk or velvet, swaying back and forth under the car's interior lights.

Its traditional style and auspicious meaning create an interesting contrast with his vehicle.

I didn't expect he had so many small items in his car!
Her gaze lingered between the two small objects several times, and a series of subtle ripples spread through her heart.

Did Zhou Mingyuan buy it himself and put it in his car?

Zhong Yujun forced herself to look away and gaze at the street scene rushing past the window.

The world outside the car window was brightly lit, filled with the romantic atmosphere of Christmas Eve, but her mood was inexplicably shrouded in a thin mist that she couldn't quite explain.

Not quite.

He wouldn't even leave messy little things on his desk during his middle school years, let alone now.

On the contrary, it would be more reasonable for a girl to give him the gift.

Of course she knew that Zhou Mingyuan was outstanding and very attractive.

What does this mean?

She couldn't help but steal a glance at Zhou Mingyuan, who was focused on driving.

His profile was smooth with a clear and sharp jawline. He hummed a little tune from time to time, as if the two extra little objects in the car were nothing special and not worth paying attention to at all.

Why do you have these things in your car?

Given her personality, the "white moonlight" (idealized love interest) wouldn't let her overthink things for long.

She will only ask directly.

So, Zhong Yujun pouted and pointed to the serious-looking amulet and the cute teddy bear.

"These~~~"

Zhou Mingyuan turned his head and explained with a smile, "The doll was a small gift they gave me when I went to Optics Valley to check out a new location for a coffee shop."

"As for the amulet, a colleague of mine was in a car accident and gave it to me."

"They're all worthless little things."

In fact, the men's explanations were all flawless and reasonable.

You asked if the plush toys you bought at the arcade during your visit to the coffee shop count as small gifts?
Of course it counts.

"All right."

Zhong Yujun didn't press the matter, but simply rested her chin on her hand, gazing at the neon lights flowing outside the window.

A slight ripple stirred within me.

She suddenly realized a fact.

What I know and possess may only be a part of Zhou Mingyuan's world.

His world was far wider and more crowded than he had imagined.

The festive atmosphere in Hankou on Christmas Eve was extremely strong.

The shop windows were sprayed with white snowflakes and Christmas tree patterns, and hung with red and green colored lights, bells, and pine cones. A thin layer of water mist condensed on the glass.

This is the most bustling area of ​​Jiangcheng, where young people wearing red Santa hats and holding glow sticks or balloons can be seen everywhere, and their laughter can be heard all the time.

To create a sense of occasion, Zhou Mingyuan booked a Western restaurant with a river view in advance.

Doormen in red uniforms stood early at the restaurant entrance. The ambiance was elegant, with each table adorned with delicate candlesticks and a small pot of Christmas-themed table decorations.

The air was filled with the soft, melodious strains of jazz music, and the faint clinking of knives and forks could be heard.

"Mr. Zhou, right?"

"This way, you two, please."

The waiter led them to a seat by the window. Outside the window was a dazzling city night view; in the distance, the lights of ships on the river shone like flowing pearls, while closer by, the exterior lights of skyscrapers displayed Christmas patterns and the words "Merry Christmas."

Extremely Beautiful.

The glass candlesticks on the table were lit, and the soft glow enveloped them, casting long eyelash shadows on the girl's face and making the tenderness in Zhou Mingyuan's eyes even clearer.

Wow, this place is so beautiful.

Away from the enormous noise and scrutiny of the auditorium, only the two of them remained.

The two usually date in the Optics Valley area, and this was Zhong Yujun's first time visiting the riverfront.

Looking at Zhou Mingyuan's deep-set eyes and brows under the candlelight, I felt a dreamlike, ethereal sensation.

The three small boxes sat on the table beside her, like silent witnesses.

Tonight, of course, is a special Christmas Eve dinner.

"Eh."

While waiting for the food to be served, Zhong Yujun held a slightly warm glass of water in both hands, looked at the flickering candlelight, and couldn't help but ask again.

"so."

She spoke very softly, as if afraid of breaking the peaceful and romantic atmosphere.

"Is all this lavish event tonight, from the publicity to the venue to all the prizes, really just to give me a Christmas present?"

"You made a whole plate of dumplings just for a dish of vinegar?"

She used the metaphor she had heard before, and after she finished speaking, she felt embarrassed, her cheeks flushing red in the candlelight.

"Yes and no."

Zhou Mingyuan swirled the stem of the glass, watching the beverage cling to the glass in a beautiful arc, and a smile curved his lips.

"The main purpose was definitely to promote the company, enhance the corporate image, and give back to the students. It was also a good practice of a large-scale event, which was great."

“Achieve multiple things with one stone.”

He spoke of it casually, as if the tens of thousands of dollars and countless hours invested were insignificant.

But Zhong Yujun knew how high the cost of this "one move" was, and the fact that he could handle it so effortlessly made it all the more precious.

"thank you."

She put down her water glass, looked at him intently, and the candlelight flickered in her eyes.

"This is the most unbelievable, dreamlike Christmas Eve I've ever had."

She couldn't find a more suitable word to describe it.

"The next one will be better."

Zhou Mingyuan reached out across the table, his thumb gently stroking the girl's delicate hand.

“Every festival, every important day, is proof of our mutual efforts.”

"."

How romantic this person is!
The phrase "going in both directions" struck Zhong Yujun's heart with great force.

She blinked, took his hand in her own, intertwined her fingers with his, and nodded vigorously.

"Ok!"

The atmosphere at dinner was incredibly warm and cozy.

The two rarely go to a restaurant specifically to eat Western food, so this meal was quite a ritual, their first time doing so.

The appetizer was exquisite foie gras with fig bread, the soup was creamy pumpkin soup, and the main course was perfectly seared steak and silver cod.

The two chatted about the fun things that happened at the party, their roommates' exaggerated reactions, the course schedule for the next semester, and the next steps for Jieyou Media.

Zhong Yujun even happily unpacked the new phone and put it on the spot.

The one-of-a-kind gold color is so beautiful!
After the meal, Zhou Mingyuan did not take her directly back to her dormitory.

The restaurant gave us two small Christmas root cakes as dessert, as Christmas Eve was still a long night ahead.

After paying the bill, the two strolled hand in hand along the still bustling riverbank, just like any ordinary couple on campus.

As I passed by a large shopping mall, the huge Christmas tree at the entrance, which was several stories high, was particularly eye-catching. It was covered with various decorative balls, lights and stars, and a crowd of people were taking pictures under the tree, with flashes going off one after another.

"How about we take one too?"

On a whim, Zhong Yujun shook the new phone she was holding.

Everyone says Apple phones take great photos, and she can't wait to see if that's true.

"can."

Zhou Mingyuan, naturally, wouldn't spoil the fun, and nodded with a smile.

He tidied his wind-blown hair: "I'll find a passerby to help me."

Soon, a kind young woman who was taking pictures took the phone from him.

The two stood nestled together under a Christmas tree shimmering with colorful lights, with a bustling crowd of people laughing and the dazzling lights of the shopping mall in the background.

Zhou Mingyuan naturally reached out and put his arm around her waist, pulling her into his embrace.

Zhong Yujun leaned against him, looking up at him with her eyes curving into beautiful crescents.

"Are you ready?"

"Three, two, one!"

"eggplant!"

The girl who was helping to take the photo shouted with a smile.

The shutter clicked repeatedly, capturing the sweetest and happiest moments of Christmas Eve.

In the photo, Zhong Yujun smiles radiantly, her eyes sparkling.

The man looked down at her, a smile playing on his lips, his eyes full of tenderness and doting affection.

All the meticulous planning and grand gestures ultimately lead to nothing more than a simple, warm hug and a romantic photo.

"Thank you!"

Zhou Mingyuan retrieved the phone, glanced at the screen, and handed it back to Zhong Yujun.

Sometimes, randomly selected passersby can actually capture the best scenery.

The photos are quite good; the light and shadow, as well as the emotions, are captured perfectly.

"nice."

Zhong Yujun whispered, feeling a sweet warmth in her heart.

As night deepened, the temperature dropped further.

Back in the car, Zhong Yujun was clearly still not satisfied and couldn't help but ask.

"tomorrow."

Are you busy with work all day?

The discussion about this topic had already been subtly initiated by Zhou Mingyuan more than a week ago.

On Christmas Eve, young couples are racking their brains trying to persuade each other not to go home.

Whether it's a countdown or spending the night together, there are a million reasons and excuses.

We'll be together on Christmas Eve, and together on Christmas Day.

This is the best way to spend a holiday, right?
But in Zhong Yujun's eyes, Zhou Mingyuan had no such intention at all.

"yes."

"I'm really annoyed, but there's nothing I can do."

The man gently pressed the accelerator, his brow furrowing: "It's the first day the renovation team has moved into the Optics Valley store, so it's definitely not okay not to supervise them."

"Workers are difficult to manage. If I'm not there, my partner can't handle it on his own."

"The team's main plan is to open around New Year's Day, and we have already compressed the construction period to the shortest possible time."

Okay. I understand.

Zhong Yujun leaned back in the passenger seat, her arms crossed. She wanted to say something more, but the words caught in her throat.

His partner, you mean those two girls from the school next door?
I saw it before at the Relief Cafe in Beiyuan.

Although she said she understood, Zhong Yujun still had a little bit of a problem in her heart.

Why make yourself so tired when you can clearly earn more money through Jieyou Media?

They work non-stop, and even dating time has to be squeezed in.

In her eyes, the Relief Coffee Shop was just a hobby.

A physical store
It's still a highly competitive coffee shop with few barriers to entry, where anyone can just decide to start one.

I probably won't make much money, right?
Since they didn't continue their lingering romance or plan a countdown, the two parked their car together some distance away and walked back to the dormitory building of the School of Management.

Downstairs, there were still many couples reluctant to part, breathing out white breaths in the cold night, whispering sweet nothings, or embracing goodbye.

"Hurry up and go up, it's cold outside."

"Um"

Zhong Yujun nodded, but her eyes were full of reluctance, and she hesitated to move.

"I am leaving?"

Zhou Mingyuan took a step back, but was immediately held in place by the girl's outstretched arms.

The romantic Christmas Eve seemed to have given Zhong Yujun a tremendous amount of courage.

She stood on tiptoe, tilted her chin up, wrapped her arms around the man's neck, and offered her soft lips to kiss him.

One second, two seconds, ten seconds.

"good night!"

Only when the color on her cherry lips had completely disappeared, her breathing had become heavier, and her whole body had warmed up, did she gently push the man away and happily turn around and run into the dormitory lobby.

Look back every three steps and pause every five steps.

Zhou Mingyuan was still standing there waving his hand, the dim streetlights casting a long shadow of the man.

Merry Christmas~~~

Zhong Yujun also smiled and waved vigorously. Although her voice could not be heard through the thick glass door, her last words could be seen from her lip movements.

The girl skipped and hopped upstairs like a little deer.

Every step felt like walking on sweet clouds.

Inside the dormitory, the roommates had obviously been waiting for a long time.

Aside from Zhao Xue's absence, as soon as Zhong Yujun opened the door, she was surrounded by Xu Ning and Duan Yanyan, who bombarded her with their questions.

"They're back! They're back! Our lucky jackpot winner is back!"

"Quickly tell us the whole story, is it a cover-up or something?"

"Speak quickly, don't miss a single detail."

"Where's the phone? Let us see it! Holy crap, it's really gold! We didn't even see it clearly on stage!"

"Zhou Mingyuan is so romantic! Ahhh! What kind of idol drama plot is this?!"

What did you two eat afterwards? Did he confess his feelings to you?

"Have you talked about it yet?"

"."

Zhong Yujun blushed deeply from their teasing and giggled incessantly, as if begging for forgiveness.

A Christmas Eve filled with ups and downs, emotions swinging like a rollercoaster.

A few minutes later, Zhou Mingyuan's phone vibrated in his pocket.

It was a message from Zhong Yujun.

Oh right! I forgot to share this with you.

A picture followed.

The group photo that a passerby helped take under the Christmas tree.

He smiled and tapped his fingers on the screen.

Goodnight, my grand prize girl.

He put down his phone, looked up, and took a deep breath of the crisp, fresh air of Christmas Eve.

(End of this chapter)