In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Time slipped quietly into 1995.

In early March, when the air in Kyoto was still chilly and the chill of winter lingered, the willow branches had already quietly sprouted tender buds, revealing the breath of early spring.

In that exquisite courtyard house in Xicheng, life moves at a relaxed and comfortable pace.

The post-production of "A Separation" was completed a month ago.

After repeated polishing by Yang Guangming, Xie Fei, Han Sanping, and the entire post-production team, the final draft was completed. Its calm, restrained yet powerful texture moved everyone who saw it.

In mid-February, the film reels and all competition materials were sent to Cannes, France through official channels for submission to the main competition of the 48th Cannes International Film Festival.

As he handed over the film, Yang Guangming felt both anticipation and peace. He had done everything he could; the rest was up to the judges and time.

With the project coming to an end, he finally had some free time.

He attends classes at the Beijing Film Academy on time every day, taking his acting classes and directing classes with Xie Fei, one-on-one instruction, very seriously. Despite already having the prestige of being a Venice Film Festival Best Actor winner and having experience directing feature films, he remains a humble and eager student in the classroom.

After class, I would return to the courtyard house, read books, analyze films, and occasionally meet up with friends.

Of course, Chen Hong was also there.

Since returning from Venice last year, Chen Hong has been living in a courtyard house, and the relationship between the two has become increasingly stable and sweet. She ended her contract with a Taiwanese agency and gradually shifted her career focus to mainland China and Hong Kong.

Before the Spring Festival, under Yang Guangming's arrangement, Chen Hong officially signed with Hong Kong Island Asia Television and became an artist under ATV.

Qiming Capital is the controlling shareholder of ATV, Yang Hongwen is the chairman of the board, and Yang Guangming is the de facto "crown prince". As his girlfriend, Chen Hong naturally received the highest level of attention and support at ATV.

Scripts, endorsements, and program offers poured in – high-quality resources kept flowing in. ATV's management was well aware that this stunningly beautiful actress was not only an artist with the company but also the young boss's girlfriend, so they dared not neglect her in the slightest.

Chen Hong's career was on the fast track, but she was not in a hurry to succeed. At Yang Guangming's suggestion, she carefully selected and accepted a well-made fashion drama film, playing the role of an independent and intelligent modern woman, a role that perfectly matched her image and temperament.

The film was mainly shot on Hong Kong Island, and the shooting period lasted three months.

March 2nd, Thursday.

The morning sunlight streamed into the tea room through the glass windows, making it feel warm and cozy.

Yang Guangming and Chen Hong sat facing each other at the tea table, leisurely sipping their morning tea. Several exquisite Cantonese dim sum dishes were laid out on the table: shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and char siu buns, all of which were Chen Hong's favorites.

She was wearing a beige loungewear set, her long hair loosely tied up, and her face bare of makeup, yet she was still stunningly beautiful. Only, between her brows, there was a faint trace of melancholy at the impending separation.

"Your flight is at 3 PM, Huang Bo has already confirmed it." Yang Guangming picked up a shrimp dumpling for her. "You'll arrive in Hong Kong Island around evening. Someone from the company will pick you up and take you directly to your apartment. Filming officially starts the day after tomorrow, so you can rest tomorrow, adjust to the time difference, and get used to the environment."

Chen Hong nodded, taking small bites of her shrimp dumplings, but her eyes remained fixed on Yang Guangming: "This will be three months... I'll miss you."

Yang Guangming smiled and took her hand: "Three months will pass quickly. Focus on filming. This is your first major production in Hong Kong. If you do well, your future will be smoother. When I'm not busy with my studies here, I can fly over to see you."

"Don't overdo it, focus on your studies." Chen Hong held his hand back, her tone gentle. "I know you've had some free time lately, but you're probably thinking about something new. You just can't stay still."

Yang Guangming smiled without saying a word. He was indeed already conceiving his next project, but it wasn't ready yet, and there was no need to talk about it now.

"By the way, since you're living here alone, you need to maintain a regular diet and lifestyle," Chen Hong reminded her worriedly. "Although Sister Wu is very considerate, you still need to take care of yourself. Try to stay up less late and smoke less."

"I rarely smoke," Yang Guangming explained.

"When Jiang Wen and the others came, you were smoking cigars with them. Don't think I didn't see it." Chen Hong gave him a reproachful look. "Occasional socializing is fine, but since you don't like smoking, you shouldn't make it a habit."

"Okay, I'll listen to you." Yang Guangming readily agreed.

The two chatted casually, enjoying the last warm moments before parting.

Lunch was carefully prepared by Wu Fang: four dishes and a soup, all home-style, yet exceptionally delicious. Chen Hong ate more than usual, as if trying to remember the taste.

After dinner, Chen Hong went back to her room to pack her luggage one last time. In fact, most of her luggage had already been packed yesterday; only some personal items and the last clothes she would wear remained unpacked.

Yang Guangming read in the study for a while, and when he figured it was about time, he got up and went to the bedroom.

Chen Hong was standing in the dressing room, trying on a coat in front of the mirror. Seeing him come in, she turned around and said, "How about this one? It should be warmer on Hong Kong Island than here, but it might still be a bit chilly at night."

She was wearing a light gray woolen long coat, cinched at the waist with a belt, which accentuated her slender waist and long legs.

"It looks great, it suits you perfectly." Yang Guangming walked over and naturally straightened her collar. "Wear this one, it'll be more convenient for the road."

Chen Hong nodded, looking at the two people standing side by side in the mirror. The man was tall and handsome, with a composed demeanor; the woman was radiant and gentle. They were such a perfect match.

She suddenly turned around and hugged Yang Guangming tightly.

Yang Guangming gently patted her back: "It's not like you're not coming back. You'll come back after filming is over, or you can come back during your vacation. Transportation is convenient now, don't be too sentimental."

“I know…” Chen Hong buried her face in his chest, her voice muffled, “I just can’t bear to part with him.”

Yang Guangming didn't say anything more, just quietly held her in his arms. The emotions of parting needed time to process.

At 1:30 p.m. sharp, Huang Bo drove his car to the gate of the courtyard.

During this period, Duan Yunfeng was mainly responsible for coordinating with Beijing Film Studio on the follow-up matters of "A Separation", as well as some higher-level social arrangements for Yang Guangming. Huang Bo was mainly responsible for coordinating daily transportation.

After loading the luggage into the car, Chen Hong did a final check of the room to make sure nothing was missing.

Wu Fang saw her to the door and respectfully said, "Ms. Chen, have a safe journey and a smooth filming process."

"Thank you, Sister Wu. I'm so grateful for your help these past few days," Chen Hong said with a smile to Wu Fang.

"You're too kind."

Yang Guangming put his arm around Chen Hong's shoulder and they both got into the back seat of the car. Huang Bo started the car, and the black Mercedes-Benz slowly drove out of the alley and merged into the afternoon traffic.

On the way to the airport, Chen Hong held Yang Guangming's hand the whole time, watching the street scenes rushing past the window. Spring comes slowly in Kyoto, and most of the trees along the roadside are still bare, with only a few evergreen trees adding a touch of green.

The car arrived at the international departure hall of Beijing Capital International Airport.

Huang Bo went to check in and drop off his luggage, while Yang Guangming waited with Chen Hong in a relatively quiet corner.

People came and went, many of them in a hurry. Flight information was broadcast over the loudspeaker from time to time, alternating between Chinese and English.

Chen Hong was dressed simply and appropriately today, but she still attracted a lot of attention. She was already used to this kind of attention and just stood quietly next to Yang Guangming.

“After you get there, call me every day to let me know you’re safe,” Yang Guangming said in a low voice.

“Yes, you too.” Chen Hong looked up at him. “Don’t forget the time when you get busy.”

"will not."

Soon, Huang Bo returned after completing the formalities, handing over his boarding pass and passport: "Ms. Chen, everything is done. Boarding is in forty minutes. You can go through security now."

Chen Hong took the boarding pass, took a deep breath, and said to Yang Guangming, "Then I'll go in."

Yang Guangming nodded, reached out and pulled her into his arms, gently kissing her forehead: "Have a safe journey and take care of yourself."

"You too." Chen Hong's eyes were slightly red, but she held back her tears.

She released her embrace, gave Yang Guangming one last deep look, and turned to walk towards the security checkpoint. After a few steps, she turned back and waved until her figure disappeared around the corner.

Yang Guangming stood there, watching her leave, feeling a sense of emptiness in his heart.

"Guangming, shall we go back?" Huang Bo asked softly.

Yang Guangming looked away, glanced at his watch, and saw it was 2:20 PM.

“No, go to BJ Station,” he said.

Huang Bo paused for a moment, but didn't ask any further questions, and immediately replied, "Okay."

The car left the airport and headed towards the city center.

Yang Guangming leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest. Huang Bo glanced at him in the rearview mirror, hesitating to speak.

"What do you want to ask?" Yang Guangming didn't open his eyes, but he seemed to know what Yang Guangming was wondering.

"It's nothing..." Huang Bo certainly wouldn't say it out loud.

"I'm going to pick someone up," Yang Guangming explained simply. "Zuo Xiaoqing is arriving in Beijing today to take the entrance exam for the Beijing Film Academy."

Huang Bo suddenly realized. He had heard Duan Yunfeng mention the name Zuo Xiaoqing before. He knew she was a friend Yang Guangming had met while filming, and that she had also taken the art exam last year but failed the academic portion. This year, she was trying again.

He stopped asking questions and focused on driving.

Yang Guangming was thinking about Zuo Xiaoqing.

This simple and persistent girl passed the professional exam for Beijing Film Academy last year, but her academic scores were still more than ten points below the undergraduate admission line for arts majors, and she ultimately failed to get in.

She cried for a long time on the phone the day she found out the results. Yang Guangming comforted her and encouraged her to try again next year.

Zuo Xiaoqing was determined and put all her effort into studying this year. She had a good foundation in her major courses, and with Yang Guangming providing occasional remote guidance, they weren't too difficult. Her biggest challenge was the general education courses.

Over the past year, the two have maintained weekly phone contact. Zuo Xiaoqing would report her study progress to him and confide her stress; Yang Guangming would encourage her and help her organize her thoughts. Although they met infrequently, their longing for each other only grew stronger during their time apart.

Zuo Xiaoqing never hid her longing and dependence on him over the phone. Yang Guangming could sense that the girl's feelings for him had gradually deepened from a young girl's hazy affection into a more profound love.

And he was willing to provide her with support and guidance at this important juncture in her life.

The car drove to the vicinity of BJ Station.

Train stations are always packed with people. In the mid-1990s, Beijing Station had a quaint architecture, and the square was crowded with travelers from all over the country, carrying large and small bags and walking hurriedly. Shouts, announcements, and conversations mingled together, creating a bustling atmosphere.

Yang Guangming made a point of disguising himself today. He wore a black baseball cap, large sunglasses, and a medical mask. He was tall and had an outstanding presence, but this disguise reduced the risk of being recognized.

After all, he's a "celebrity" now. A top scorer in the national college entrance examination, a Venice Film Festival Best Actor winner, a prodigy in the directing department of the Beijing Film Academy, and most importantly, his photos have graced the pages of major media outlets… these labels mean he's likely to attract attention wherever he goes. He didn't want to cause any unnecessary commotion when he was picked up at the station.

Fortunately, his first film, due to its sensitive historical context, is still under revision and has not yet been officially released, so he doesn't have to worry too much about being recognized.

Huang Bo parked the car and followed Yang Guangming to the exit.

The exit was crowded with people waiting to pick up passengers; some held up signs, while others craned their necks to look. Yang Guangming glanced at the train timetable; the express train that Zuo Xiaoqing was on, coming from Shashi, was supposed to arrive at 4:00 PM sharp.

They found a relatively quiet corner to wait.

At 4:10, a large number of passengers began to pour out of the exit.

Yang Guangming's eyes searched through the crowd. Soon, he spotted that familiar figure.

Zuo Xiaoqing was wearing a red down jacket, carrying a backpack, and holding a small suitcase.

A year had passed, and she had grown taller, her figure appearing even more slender. Her short hair was still neatly styled, her face was slightly red from the cold, but her eyes sparkled as she looked around the crowd with anticipation and nervousness.

Yang Guangming took off his sunglasses and mask and waved at her.

Zuo Xiaoqing saw him.

In that instant, her expression shifted from bewilderment to surprise; her eyes widened suddenly, then blossomed into a radiant smile. She didn't even care about her suitcase; she let go of the handle and practically ran towards it.

"Brother Guangming!"

Amidst the astonished gazes of the surrounding passengers, Zuo Xiaoqing plunged headfirst into Yang Guangming's arms and hugged him tightly.

Yang Guangming was knocked back slightly by her bump, but quickly regained his balance. He patted her back and laughed, "Be gentle, there are so many people watching."

Ignoring everything else, Zuo Xiaoqing buried her face in his chest, her voice choked with sobs: "I missed you so much... I've finally seen you again..."

Nearly a year apart was a long and agonizing ordeal for a young girl just beginning to experience love and who had poured all her longing into the phone line. Now, finally embracing the person she had been yearning for day and night, her emotions were overwhelming.

Yang Guangming could feel her shivering slightly, not just from the cold, but also from excitement.

He softened his tone, his heart softening, and said, "Alright, now that we've met, let go of me, grab your luggage, and let's go home."

Zuo Xiaoqing then let go of his hand, feeling embarrassed, and wiped her eyes. She raised her face, her eyes still red, but she smiled incredibly happily.

Huang Bo had already quietly brought her suitcase over.

"This is Huang Bo, my assistant," Yang Guangming introduced.

"Hello, Brother Huang." Zuo Xiaoqing greeted him politely, her voice slightly nasal.

"Hello, Miss Zuo." Huang Bo responded with a smile, but inwardly he was thinking: This Miss Zuo's feelings for Guangming are truly undisguised.

The three squeezed through the crowd and returned to the car.

The car was well-heated, so Zuo Xiaoqing took off her down jacket, revealing a white turtleneck sweater underneath, which made her fair skin look even more youthful.

She sat next to Yang Guangming, her eyes almost never leaving him, as if she couldn't get enough of looking at him.

"Are you tired from the journey?" Yang Guangming asked.

"Not tired, I took a sleeper and arrived in no time." Zuo Xiaoqing shook her head, then wrinkled her nose. "It's just that there were a lot of people on the train and the smell was a bit strong."

"The Spring Festival travel rush has just ended, but the flow of people is still huge." Yang Guang nodded understandingly. "Are you hungry? Let's go back and get something to eat first."

"I'm a little hungry," Zuo Xiaoqing honestly admitted, then asked, "Brother Guangming, where am I staying? Have you booked a hotel?"

“Stay at my place,” Yang Guangming said naturally. “There are many rooms in the courtyard house. It’s not safe or convenient for you to stay outside by yourself. If you stay at my place, someone will take care of your meals and rest, and you can focus on preparing for the exam.”

Zuo Xiaoqing's cheeks flushed slightly, her heart leaping with joy. Being able to live with him, even if in separate rooms, was enough to make her happy.

"Won't this be too much trouble for you..." she said softly.

"No trouble at all." Yang Guangming patted her hand. "Remember to call your parents later to let them know you're safe."

"I'll call when I get there," Zuo Xiaoqing explained. "I told them that a friend would pick me up from the station and arrange accommodation, which made them feel a little more at ease, but they still told me to call every day."

Yang Guangming nodded. Zuo Xiaoqing's family was well-off, but they were still worried about their daughter coming to Beijing alone for the exam. Last year, they accompanied her, but this year Zuo Xiaoqing insisted on coming by herself, citing "experience" and "not wanting to interfere with her parents' work." Her parents couldn't persuade her otherwise, so they had to agree.

The car drove into Xicheng Hutong and stopped in front of that familiar courtyard house.

Zuo Xiaoqing got out of the car and curiously looked around at her surroundings. Blue bricks and gray tiles, a vermilion gate—a quiet oasis amidst the hustle and bustle, simple yet elegant. This was her first time visiting Yang Guangming's residence in Beijing.

Wu Fang had already been notified and was waiting at the door. When she saw Yang Guangming return with a pretty young girl, she remained calm and greeted him respectfully.

"Sister Wu, this is Zuo Xiaoqing, my friend. She's in Beijing for the art college entrance exam and will be staying here for a while," Yang Guangming introduced. "Please arrange a guest room for her, the one in the east wing, it's quiet and sunny."

“Okay, Guangming.” Wu Fang replied, smiling at Zuo Xiaoqing, “Miss Zuo, welcome. Give me your luggage.”

"Thank you, Sister Wu, I can do it myself," Zuo Xiaoqing said quickly.

"Let her do it herself, Sister Wu. Please prepare some food, something light is fine," Yang Guangming instructed.

"Everything is ready. There's porridge, side dishes, and freshly steamed buns." Wu Fang is always very thoughtful.

Stepping into the courtyard, Zuo Xiaoqing couldn't help but exclaim, "What a beautiful courtyard!"

Although it was winter and the flowers and trees in the courtyard had not yet revived, the layout was exquisite and the place was spotless. The bluestone path, the red lanterns under the eaves, and the carvings on the window frames all exuded elegance and care.

"If you like it, that's good." Yang Guangming led her towards the east wing.

The guest room was decorated warmly. Solid wood furniture, warm-toned bedding, and a small vase with a few sprigs of wintersweet on the desk, emitting a subtle fragrance. The window faced east, letting in the afternoon sun, making the room warm and bright.

"You'll stay in this room. The bathroom is next door; it's private, and you'll have it all to yourself. If you need anything, just tell Sister Wu, or tell me directly," Yang Guangming said.

Zuo Xiaoqing put down her luggage, looked around, and felt a warm feeling well up in her heart. Everything here was arranged so well that she, a guest who had come from afar, felt neither unfamiliar nor uneasy.

“Brother Guangming, thank you…” She turned around and looked at Yang Guangming earnestly.

"Why are you being so polite with me?" Yang Guangming smiled. "Let's go eat first, and then we can clean up."

Inside the restaurant, Wu Fang had already set out the food. Steaming hot millet porridge, several refreshing side dishes—cold cucumber salad, pickled radish, and stir-fried shredded cabbage—and a steaming basket of three-delicacy buns.

Simple, yet incredibly appetizing. Zuo Xiaoqing was indeed hungry; after sitting down, she obediently drank half a bowl of porridge and ate a steamed bun before slowing down.

"When do the art exams start?" Yang Guangming asked.

"The preliminary test is the day after tomorrow," Zuo Xiaoqing replied. "I took the test once last year, so I'm familiar with the process. I'm better prepared this year."

Are you nervous?

“A little…” Zuo Xiaoqing said honestly, “but it’s much better than last year. Last year I was clueless, but this year I know what I want.”

Yang Guangming nodded approvingly: "That's the right mindset. During the exam, relax, focus, and just bring out the level you've been practicing. You have excellent qualifications and a solid professional foundation, so you should be fine performing normally."

His affirmation gave Zuo Xiaoqing immense confidence. She nodded vigorously: "Yes, I will!"

After finishing her meal, Zuo Xiaoqing remembered that she needed to call home to let her family know she was safe.

Yang Guangming led her to the front yard, where there was a landline phone. Wu Fang mainly used it to make purchases or handle some household chores, and it wasn't used very often.

“Use this phone to make the call,” Yang Guangming said. “Tell your parents that you’re staying at a guesthouse arranged by a friend, that the environment is very nice, and that they can rest assured. You don’t need to give them too much detail about the address.”

Zuo Xiaoqing understood what he meant. After all, their current relationship and the fact that she was living in his house were not suitable for her parents to know. She was not yet eighteen, and her parents would inevitably worry or even object if they found out.

She dialed her home number.

The call was answered quickly; it was her mother's anxious voice: "Qingqing? Have you arrived? Did everything go smoothly?"

"Mom, I've arrived. I just finished eating. A friend picked me up from the station and arranged a really nice place to stay. It's a very quiet guesthouse with a single room. It's very clean and safe," Zuo Xiaoqing replied, following her prepared explanation.

"That's good, that's good." Mom breathed a sigh of relief. "Have you eaten? It's cold in Beijing, wear more clothes. Did you bring all your exam supplies?"

"I brought everything, don't worry. I'll take good care of myself," Zuo Xiaoqing said easily. "I'll go familiarize myself with the exam venue tomorrow, and the exam is the day after tomorrow. I'll call you after the exam."

I chatted with my mother for a few more minutes, and then my father took over and gave me some instructions before the call ended.

Zuo Xiaoqing put down the receiver and let out a soft sigh of relief. Lying made her feel a little guilty, but the thought of living with Yang Guangming overcame that guilt with immense joy.

Yang Guangming had been waiting beside her. Seeing that she had finished her call, he said, "That's good. Let's go, I'll take you for a walk in the yard to digest your food."

The two strolled slowly in the courtyard. Although the flowers and plants had not yet bloomed, the exquisite layout, the rugged rockery, and the wind chimes on the eaves all captivated Zuo Xiaoqing.

"It's so comfortable here, much better than a hotel," she exclaimed sincerely.

"If you like it, stay a little longer," Yang Guangming said with a smile. "Don't rush back after the exams. Have some fun in Beijing, and I'll show you around properly later."

"Really?" Zuo Xiaoqing's eyes lit up. "My parents will definitely urge me to go back soon..."

“Just say you need to wait for the results and participate in some exchange activities with art schools.” Yang Guangming had already thought of a reason. “I’ll find someone to vouch for you.”

Zuo Xiaoqing smiled happily and naturally took Yang Guangming's arm. This intimate gesture, made so naturally at this moment of reunion after so long.

Yang Guangming did not refuse and let her take his arm.

After strolling around the courtyard, it was getting dark. In early spring in Beijing, it still gets dark very early.

"What do you want to do tonight?" Yang Guangming asked. "Watch TV or a movie? I have a home theater here."

"Let's watch a movie!" Zuo Xiaoqing said immediately, as she enjoyed watching movies with Yang Guangming.

"it is good."

The home theater is located in the backyard, where it's well-insulated. The room isn't large, but it's fully equipped. There's a comfortable sofa, a huge projection screen, surround sound, and an entire wall of videotapes and DVDs.

Sunshine chose a lighthearted French comedy, *La Grande Vadrouille*. This film is humorous, witty, and fast-paced, perfect for relaxing.

As the film begins, the lights in the room dim, leaving only the changing light and shadow on the screen.

Zuo Xiaoqing initially sat upright, but as she watched, she gradually relaxed and unconsciously leaned towards Yang Guangming. Yang Guangming put his arm around her shoulder, and she leaned into his embrace.

The familiar body temperature, the familiar scent. Zuo Xiaoqing closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and felt that nearly a year of longing and waiting had been compensated for in this moment.

The movie was hilarious, and she kept giggling. Looking at her happy profile, Yang Guangming felt a sense of peace.

Halfway through the film, Zuo Xiaoqing suddenly whispered, "Brother Guangming, I've been thinking about you every day this past year."

Her voice was exceptionally clear in the darkness, carrying the sincerity and trepidation unique to a young girl.

Yang Guangming looked down at her. The light from the screen shone on her face, and the shadows of her eyelashes trembled slightly.

“I know,” he replied softly.

“I…I’m not a child anymore.” Zuo Xiaoqing mustered her courage, raised her head, and gazed into his eyes in the dim light. “I’ve grown up, and I know what I want. I want…to be with you forever.”

Her confession was direct and pure, devoid of adult calculations and weighing of options, only filled with sincerity.

Yang Guangming watched her quietly; the girl had indeed grown up. Not just in height and appearance, but also in her inner strength and courage.

He reached out and gently stroked her cheek.

Zuo Xiaoqing held her breath, her heart pounding. She could feel the warmth of his fingertips and the gentleness of his movements.

Then, Yang Guangming lowered his head and kissed her lips.

The kiss was light, tinged with tentative anticipation and tenderness. Zuo Xiaoqing paused for a moment, then closed her eyes, responding awkwardly yet passionately. Her hands climbed onto his neck, her body trembling slightly.

More than a year's worth of longing poured out in this kiss.

After an unknown amount of time, the two slowly separated. Zuo Xiaoqing's cheeks were flushed, and her eyes were moist, glistening in the darkness. Looking at the bright sunlight, she couldn't help but smile, like a child who had secretly eaten candy.

Yang Guangming smiled and wiped her lips with his thumb: "Silly girl."

"I'm not stupid," Zuo Xiaoqing retorted softly, burying her face in his chest again.

Neither of them paid much attention to what happened in the second half of the movie. A sweet and subtle atmosphere permeated the darkness, filling the small space.

The movie ended, and the end credits music began.

As the lights came on, Zuo Xiaoqing, still a little embarrassed, lowered her head and straightened the not-too-messy hem of her clothes.

"Are you hungry? Want to grab some late-night snacks?" Yang Guangming asked casually, as if the kiss just now was perfectly natural.

"A little..." Zuo Xiaoqing nodded honestly. She had eaten dinner early, and the emotional turmoil she had just experienced had indeed taken its toll.

"Sister Wu should have prepared some desserts, let's go check."

The two returned to the front yard. Wu Fang had indeed stewed a white fungus and lotus seed soup, which was kept warm on the stove. Each of them had a bowl, which was sweet and nourishing.

After finishing dessert, it was already past nine o'clock in the evening.

"You've had a long day, get some rest," Yang Guangming said to Zuo Xiaoqing. "Get a good night's sleep so you'll be well-rested tomorrow. I'll go with you to the Beijing Film Academy to familiarize yourself with the exam venue."

"Mmm." Zuo Xiaoqing nodded, but she was also a little reluctant. She didn't want this beautiful night to end so soon.

Yang Guangming clearly saw what she was thinking and ruffled her hair: "There's still a long way to go, no rush. Go wash up first and get some sleep."

He waved and walked out of the room.

Zuo Xiaoqing stood at the door, twisting the hem of her clothes with her fingers, hesitant to speak.

"What's wrong?" Yang Guangming asked.

"...Goodnight." Zuo Xiaoqing only said it softly in the end, quickly kissed him on the cheek, then turned around and went into the house, closing the door behind her.

Sunlight touched the spot where he had been kissed, shaking his head and chuckling.

Back in the master bedroom, he washed up and lay on the bed. Thinking of Zuo Xiaoqing's shy yet bold kiss and her bright, sparkling eyes, a wave of emotion washed over him.

This girl is definitely different.

The next day, Yang Guangming accompanied Zuo Xiaoqing to the Beijing Film Academy.

The campus already has the atmosphere of an art exam preparation. Young faces can be seen everywhere, some practicing nervously, others visiting in groups. Zuo Xiaoqing is no stranger to this place; she went through the process last year.

Yang Guangming wore a hat and mask, trying to keep a low profile. However, he's a celebrity at the Beijing Film Academy now, and some sharp-eyed students still recognized him. But they just pointed and talked from a distance, without bothering him.

He led Zuo Xiaoqing to the examination room for the preliminary audition of the acting department and familiarized her with the process and route.

"I'll have Huang Bo bring you over tomorrow morning," Yang Guangming explained. "I won't accompany you to the exam, so as not to put pressure on you. Go straight home after the exam, and Sister Wu will prepare something delicious for you."

"Yes, you don't need to come, I can manage." Zuo Xiaoqing was very sensible.

In the afternoon, the two went to buy some small items they might need for the exam—hair clips, safety pins, throat lozenges, and the like. Zuo Xiaoqing was well-prepared, but Yang Guangming still hoped everything would go perfectly.

Back at the courtyard house in the evening, Zuo Xiaoqing began her final adjustments. She went through her prepared vocals, lines, and physical performance again, asking Yang Guangming for his feedback.

Yang Guangming offered some subtle suggestions for adjustment based on his professional perspective, mainly regarding the control of emotions and rhythm.

“That’s already very good,” he concluded with encouragement. “Remember, confidence and relaxation are the best states.”

That evening, Zuo Xiaoqing went to bed early. Yang Guangming didn't disturb her; he was reading in his study.

The next morning, Zuo Xiaoqing got up, full of energy. She changed into her prepared exam attire—a simple white sweater and black practice pants, her hair tied in a neat ponytail, without any makeup, yet radiating youthful vitality.

"Keep it up." Yang Guangming saw her to the door and gave her a hug.

"Wait for my good news!" Zuo Xiaoqing said confidently.

Huang Bo drove her to the Beijing Film Academy. Yang Guangming stayed home to take care of some of his own things.

The preliminary exam lasted all day. Zuo Xiaoqing took the morning session and finished at noon.

When she returned, she had a relaxed smile on her face.

"How are you feeling?" Yang Guangming asked.

"Great!" Zuo Xiaoqing's eyes lit up. "My vocals and lines went very smoothly, and my physical performance was also quite good. The topic I drew for the impromptu skit was 'Reunion,' and I played a girl who waited at the train station for a friend she hadn't seen for many years. I was very emotionally invested, and the examiners seemed quite satisfied."

Yang Guangming nodded: "You certainly have personal experience with the theme of 'reunion,' so it's only natural that you acted well."

Zuo Xiaoqing blushed, knowing what he was implying.

The preliminary test results will be announced in two days. During these two days, Zuo Xiaoqing relaxed and enjoyed the time she spent alone with Yang Guangming.

She was like a little tail, following Yang Ming wherever he went. When he was reading in the study, she would move a chair next to him and pick up a book to read as well, though she would often look at him while reading; when he was taking a walk in the yard, she would link arms with him and chatter away about all sorts of interesting things.

Yang Guangming was very patient with her and indulged her attachment.

The two watch movies and listen to music together, or simply read books quietly, occasionally glancing up at each other with a smile, creating a warm and sweet atmosphere.

Zuo Xiaoqing became increasingly bold. She would steal kisses from him when he wasn't looking, she would act coquettishly and ask him to feed her, and she would stay in his room at night and refuse to leave until he urged her to go back to sleep.

The girl's innocence and enthusiasm are like the spring sunshine, warm and bright.

Yang Guangming savored this pure affection. With Zuo Xiaoqing, he didn't need to consider the complexities of the adult world; he only needed to respond to her straightforward and passionate emotions.

On the third day, the list of candidates for the re-examination was announced. Zuo Xiaoqing's name was prominently listed.

She jumped up with joy and spun around in the sunlight.

"I knew you could do it." Yang Guangming was happy for her too.

The second round of testing was more difficult than the first round, but Zuo Xiaoqing was well-prepared, in good condition, and performed steadily.

After the re-examination, there were several more days of waiting. During this time, Zuo Xiaoqing began to feel anxious, worried that she hadn't performed well enough and that the competition was too fierce.

Yang Guangming then took her out for a walk to cheer her up. They went to the Forbidden City to see the red walls and yellow tiles, walked along the Long Corridor in the Summer Palace, and strolled around Wangfujing Street to eat snacks. With his company, Zuo Xiaoqing's mood gradually calmed down.

On March 12th, the list of candidates for the third round was announced. Zuo Xiaoqing advanced once again.

Making it to the third round means she's already one of the best candidates. If she performs normally in the third round, passing the professional exam is almost a certainty.

The third test will be held on March 15th. This is the final hurdle, and also the most comprehensive and rigorous assessment.

Zuo Xiaoqing gave it her all. She calmly handled the assigned performance, musical appreciation, image association, and comprehensive Q&A, fully showcasing her accumulated knowledge and growth over the past year.

When she walked out of the third exam hall, although she was exhausted, her eyes were full of light. She knew that she had done her best and had no regrets.

"You've worked hard." Yang Guangming waited for her outside the exam hall and handed her a bottle of water. "Go home and get some rest."

"Brother Guangming, I think... I did well on the exam," Zuo Xiaoqing said softly after taking a sip of water.

"It'll definitely be good." Yang Guangming put his arm around her shoulder. "Come on, let's celebrate. What do you want to eat?"

"I want hot pot!" Zuo Xiaoqing said immediately. She'd been craving it for a while, as her diet had been bland during the exam period.

"Okay, let's go eat hot pot."

The two went to a well-established hot pot restaurant. The steaming copper pot, the tender lamb, and the rich sesame sauce made Zuo Xiaoqing eat with great relish, instantly washing away the pressure and fatigue of the exam.

It was past eight o'clock in the evening when we got back to the courtyard house.

Perhaps it was the relaxation after the exam, perhaps it was the warmth brought by the hot pot, or perhaps it was the emotions that had been building up over this period of time finally reaching a breaking point, but Zuo Xiaoqing was unusually clingy today.

She refused to go back to her own room and followed Yang Guangming into the master bedroom.

"Brother Guangming, tonight... I don't want to sleep alone." She stood at the door, head down, fingers twisting the hem of her clothes, her voice barely audible.

Yang Guangming turned around and looked at her. The girl's cheeks were flushed from the hot pot and her shyness, but her eyes bravely looked up to meet his gaze. In them, there was anticipation, nervousness, and undisguised love.

He understood what she meant.

After a few seconds of silence, Yang Guangming walked over, took her hand, pulled her into the room, and closed the door.

"Have you thought it through?" he asked softly.

Zuo Xiaoqing nodded vigorously, her eyes resolute: "I've made up my mind. I made up my mind a year ago."

Yang Guangming stopped talking. He lowered his head and kissed her.

This kiss was no longer as gentle and tentative as before, but carried a clear sense of possession and passion. Zuo Xiaoqing responded awkwardly, her body trembling slightly, but she did not back down at all.

……

(Part of it was deleted during the review process)

Her voice carried an almost devout satisfaction.

A complex mix of emotions welled up in Yang Guangming's heart. There was pity, gratitude, and a sense of responsibility. This girl had given him her most precious thing without reservation.

He tightened his arms, holding her even closer.

"Go to sleep," he whispered in her ear.

Zuo Xiaoqing adjusted to a more comfortable position in his arms and quickly fell into a deep sleep. She was exhausted that day.

Yang Guangming didn't fall asleep immediately. He looked at the sleeping girl in his arms by the moonlight streaming through the window. Her long eyelashes cast shadows under her eyes, and her lips were slightly pouting, making her look like a child.

He sighed softly.

Zuo Xiaoqing and Chen Hong are two completely different women. Chen Hong is mature, independent, and beautiful, like a blooming peony, requiring careful care and respect.

Zuo Xiaoqing is simple, enthusiastic, and persistent, like a sunflower growing towards the sun, offering unreserved reliance and love.

He felt two different things, but he liked them both. (End of Chapter)