Chapter One
As night fell, the cold moon hung high in the sky. The bright moonlight fell on the ancient castle on the edge of the city, casting a mysterious silver veil around it. Emily stood on the balcony, looking at the forest in the distance, and felt a chill rising from the bottom of her heart. Since moving to this castle, her life has become bizarre and mysterious. The cold wind in October swept across her bare shoulders, bringing a shudder. Emily subconsciously wrapped her woolen shawl tightly around her, but she couldn't feel any warmth. This castle seems to be always cold, just like its mysterious owner Lucas Black, exuding an inaccessible atmosphere. "Miss Emily," suddenly, a low voice sounded behind her, "You'll catch a cold if you're still outside so late." She turned around and saw Lucas standing at the balcony door. The moonlight outlined his tall figure. He was wearing a dark silk shirt, and the collar vaguely revealed his strong chest. The amber eyes flickered strangely in the darkness, as if they could see through her soul. "Mr. Black," Emily whispered, trying to hide the trembling in her voice, "I'm just admiring the moonlight." Lucas took a step forward, but suddenly stopped. Emily noticed that his body stiffened instantly, and his nostrils fluttered slightly, as if he was sniffing something. His expression became solemn, and a glimmer of wildness flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed. "Please go in," his voice was hoarser than usual, "It's not safe here." Just then, a cold night breeze swept across the balcony, bringing a faint smell of rust. Emily saw that Lucas's fingers were almost pinched into the stone railing, and his knuckles were white. She couldn't help but take a step back, her heartbeat accelerated. "I thought this castle was the safest place," she whispered, "after all, you are here." Lucas let out an almost inaudible growl, "Some danger, Miss Emily, is much closer than you think." His eyes looked unusually sharp in the moonlight, "especially on a full moon night." Suddenly, a wolf howl came from the distant forest, shrill and long. Emily was surprised to find that Lucas' pupils shrank in an instant and turned into vertical pupils like a beast, but the fleeting change made her wonder if it was just an illusion caused by the moonlight. Just then, a cold breath passed by her from behind, accompanied by a chuckle. Emily turned around and saw only a dark shadow flashing in the corner of the balcony. When she looked back again, Lucas had come to her side, with a hand gently on her shoulder. "I'll take you back to your room," he said, with an unquestionable commanding tone in his voice. Emily noticed that his palms were surprisingly hot, in sharp contrast to the chill of the castle. Walking in the dark corridor of the castle, Emily could feel Lucas' presence, he walked behind her like a silent guardian. Moonlight poured in through the Gothic stained glass windows, casting mottled shadows on the floor. "Good night, Miss Emily," Lucas whispered in front of her door, "Remember, no matter what sound you hear, don't leave the room tonight." "Why?" Emily asked subconsciously. Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes looked deep and dangerous in the moonlight, "Because the moonlight tonight is too beautiful, it will always wake up something that shouldn't wake up." When the door closed behind her, Emily leaned against the door, her heartbeat still alarmingly fast. She could hear Lucas's footsteps gradually fading away, but she seemed to hear the sound of wings flapping outside the window. She walked to the window and looked out through the glass. In the moonlit courtyard, she saw a figure standing by the fountain. The man looked up at her window, and the moonlight illuminated his pale marble face - it was Draco, with a mysterious smile on his lips and a dangerous light in his eyes. When Emily blinked, his figure had disappeared, as if he had never appeared. Emily lay trembling on the bed, listening to the wolf howling outside the window. She knew that she had fallen into a world full of dangers, and this was just the beginning. On this moonlit night, her fate was closely linked to two mysterious and dangerous beings, and there was no turning back.
Chapter Two
In the dead of night, Emily lay in bed, the faces of Lucas and Draco appeared in her mind. She could not resist the deep attraction, but she also knew that she was caught in a dangerous vortex. She knew that the confrontation between the two men was a life-and-death hostility, and she was just a pawn in their war. A corner of her heart reminded her to escape, but the deeper desire pulled her to stay in this mysterious castle, looking forward to the unknown encounter.
Just as she was about to fall asleep, a slight knock on the window interrupted the silence. Emily opened her eyes, and the moonlight poured into the room through the curtains, making the corners of the room particularly dark. She sat up subconsciously, trembling slightly and walked to the window. When she opened the curtains, a figure was standing in front of her, cold and elegant.
It was Draco.
"Sorry, I scared you, Emily." His low voice was frivolous and indifferent, as if every word revealed his unfathomable darkness. His eyes were like two flames in the abyss, locking onto her with an irresistible force.
"How... are you here?" Emily's heartbeat quickened, and her hands unconsciously clenched a corner of the curtain. She knew she should be scared at this moment, but Draco's unique charm made it hard for her to resist.
Draco did not answer her question, but slowly approached, lowered his head and whispered in her ear: "You know why I'm here, Emily. You've never really been afraid of me, right?"
The moment he approached, she smelled the cold breath on him, as if it came from the night a thousand years ago. Her breathing gradually became rapid, but she did not retreat, but was locked by his eyes, as if her soul was also attracted to him.
"Draco... we can't do this." Her voice was weak, but she did not retreat at all, as if even she herself was struggling with contradictions.
"You don't belong here at all, Emily. Staying here will only put you in deeper danger." Draco gently lifted her chin, with a smile on the corner of his cold mouth, that smile was both gentle and dangerous, "But if you want to know the real darkness, then come. I will take you to see everything."
At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Lucas' figure appeared at the door like a shadow. His face was gloomy, and his eyes were burning with anger. It was his possessiveness and anger that he could not hide. He walked towards Draco step by step, his hands clenched, his muscles tensed, as if he was going to pounce on and tear the enemy in front of him in the next second.
"Draco, let her go." Lucas' voice was low and threatening, like an enraged beast. It was the first time Emily saw him so out of control, his eyes were like a ball of unextinguishable fire, revealing uncontrollable anger and possessiveness.
Draco smiled slightly, released Emily's chin, and looked at Lucas provocatively. "Don't you understand yet? She doesn't belong to you. The savagery of the wolf tribe is nothing but a bondage to her, and I can give her true freedom."
"The 'freedom' you mentioned will only make her fall into darkness. You don't understand what true protection is." Lucas sneered, his eyes as sharp as an eagle. He slowly stepped forward, blocked Emily, and protected her behind him. That was his attitude as the wolf king, firm and unshakable.
Emily was sandwiched between the two, feeling her heartbeat speed up, as if breathing became difficult. These two completely different forces intertwined and collided in front of her, making it impossible for her to decide which side to choose.
Draco raised the corners of his mouth and slowly took a step back, his eyes still on Emily. "Emily, one day you will find that he can't satisfy the desire in your heart. And I am your true home."
As soon as the voice fell, Draco's figure disappeared into the night, as if he had never appeared.
Lucas looked at the empty room, his fists gradually loosened, but the anger and worry in his eyes remained. He turned around and looked at Emily softly, but his eyes still flashed with contradictions and forbearance.
"Are you okay?" He asked in a low voice, with a trace of undisguised concern in his voice.
Emily nodded, but her heart was in turmoil and it was difficult to calm down. She knew that she had fallen too deep. She could not let go of these two men easily, nor could she easily resist them. A complex emotion surged in her heart, which was a dangerous and fatal attraction.
"Lucas, I..." She wanted to say something, but lost her words when she met his eyes.
"Don't get close to him." Lucas' voice was low, with a hint of pleading and warning, "I know you feel confused, but Draco is not what you think. He will only drag you into the darkness, and I won't let him hurt you."
Emily just looked at him silently, and a touch of uncertainty gradually rose in her heart. She knew that this was not just a war, but a contest of feelings and desires. In this dangerous triangle relationship, she has gone too far and can never turn back.
Chapter Three
Emily stayed awake all night. The wind outside the window blew through the woods, making a low moan, as if the whole castle was whispering in her ear. She curled up in bed, recalling Draco's cold smile and Lucas's deep eyes. Two completely different attractions stirred in her heart, making her lost on the edge of danger and desire.
When the sky was slightly bright, she made a decision. She had to figure out what she wanted, the wildness and protection of the wolf tribe, or the mystery and temptation of the vampire. She got up and walked out of the room, walked through the deserted corridor, and came to the door of Lucas's study.
The door of the study was slightly open, and a whisper came from inside. Emily stood outside the door and pricked up her ears to listen.
"She is innocent, Lucas." A low and gentle female voice came from Lucas's sister, Leila. Emily had heard rumors about her. Leila was the wisest prophet in the wolf tribe and could always see fragments of the future.
"I know, Leila." Lucas' voice was hoarse, as if he had struggled all night, "but I can't control myself, I can't suppress my desire for her. I'm afraid that if she stays with me, she will only be swallowed by my darkness."
Emily's heart trembled, and she raised her hand to push open the door.
"Lucas." Her voice was abrupt and firm in the silent room.
The two turned around and saw her standing at the door with a hint of determination in her eyes. She walked slowly towards Lucas, looked up at him, with a hint of determination and inquiry in her eyes.
"I know you protect me, but I'm not a fragile child." Her voice was calm and firm, "I need to know the truth. Why are you always so hesitant? And why is Draco so persistent in approaching me?"
Lucas' expression froze for a moment, his eyes wandering on her face, as if he was weighing whether to tell her everything. Finally, he took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind.
"Emily, the fate of our werewolves is usually determined at birth. The wolf tribe has a unique ability to perceive its partner. When we find that person, we will feel an attraction that cannot be ignored... and you are my destined partner." Lucas spoke in a low voice, with pain and desire flashing in his eyes.
Emily's heartbeat accelerated, and thousands of emotions surged in her mind, both shocked and confused. She never thought that she would become his destined partner, and his possessiveness and protectiveness of her turned out to come from this ancient bond.
She asked softly: "What about Draco? Why is he so obsessed with me?"
Lucas's eyes became more gloomy, and there was a hint of anger in his eyes. "Draco's tribe never believed in fate. They prefer to dominate their own future. And he believes that as long as he possesses you, he can destroy me and the traditional beliefs of the wolf tribe. So, he is not sincere to you, but to weaken my power."
Emily's heart suddenly tightened, and a hint of anger and loss surged in her eyes. However, she also felt a little unwilling, as if she was just a tool in this struggle, being fought over and torn by the two, and she had no right to control herself.
"So, Lucas, are you sincere? Is it just fate for me?" There was a hint of disappointment in her voice, and her eyes became cold.
Lucas was stunned, as if he was hurt by her question. He was silent for a moment before speaking: "Emily, I can't deny the existence of fate, but I can't ignore my feelings for you." He gently held her hand, his eyes full of affection and desire, "Whether it is fate or something else, I am willing to give up everything for you."
Just then, a slight sound came from outside the window. Emily turned back suddenly and saw a pair of dark red eyes flashing outside the window, like a flame in the dark, and the familiar cold breath startled her heart.
It was Draco.
He stood outside the window, sneering at them, as if everything was under his control. He knocked on the window lightly, his voice cold and full of provocation: "I don't think it's possible to talk about 'betraying' everything here, Lucas. You can't protect her because she will eventually come to me."
Lucas' eyes immediately became cold and dangerous. He stood in front of Emily, glared at Draco outside the window, and growled in a low voice: "Stay away from her, Draco. You can't force her to choose darkness."
Draco smiled slightly, his eyes full of evil confidence. He raised his eyebrows at Emily, as if everything was under his control. "Dear Emily, you will find that the bright world cannot satisfy your desire. And darkness - is your destination." After he finished speaking, his figure instantly disappeared into the night.
The room returned to silence, but the air was filled with tension and uneasiness. Emily looked at the empty darkness outside the window, feeling both fear and desire in her heart. She could no longer deny Draco's attraction to her, and the danger and mystery made her heart beat faster.
Lucas noticed her hesitation, and a trace of pain and uneasiness flashed in his eyes. He gently held her hand and whispered, "Emily, don't get close to him. His darkness will devour you and make you lost in the endless night."
She didn't respond, but just looked at him silently, her heart full of complicated emotions. She knew that she could no longer simply withdraw from the two of them. Her fate had been drawn into an uncontrollable vortex, and the only thing she could do was to follow her heart and touch the unknown darkness.
Chapter Four
As autumn deepened, the forest surrounding the castle donned a cloak of gold and crimson. Yet Emily felt none of the season's warmth. Since that night's revelation, her mind had been in constant turmoil, with Lucas's truth and Draco's temptation intertwining like two serpents in her thoughts, leaving her breathless.
That evening, Emily found herself alone in the castle's library, searching through ancient tomes for any mention of werewolves and vampires. As she focused on a yellowed manuscript, the air suddenly turned cold. Looking up, she found Draco standing across from her, his appearance as silent as shadow.
"Seeking truth, my dear Emily?" Draco leaned elegantly against the bookshelf, wearing a deep purple silk shirt that made his skin appear even paler. "But you know, written accounts are often one-sided."
Emily instinctively stepped back. "Why do you always appear like this? It's unsettling."
Draco chuckled softly, moving toward her with fluid grace. "Because I enjoy seeing you startled. It makes you even more enticing." His fingers traced her cheek, the cold touch making her shiver. "Lucas told you I'm merely using you, but did he mention that his fate is actually a chain binding him?"
Emily froze. "What do you mean?"
"The werewolves' so-called destined mates are nothing but constraints in their bloodline," Draco's voice carried a hypnotic power. "They're forced to love someone, forced to protect them. Isn't that tragic? While I..." his gaze deepened, "I choose you because I'm truly drawn to you."
A low growl suddenly echoed from the doorway. Lucas stood there, his eyes now golden, filled with rage. "Step away from her, Draco!" His voice carried an unmistakable threat.
Instead of retreating, Draco pulled Emily closer. "Why so angry, Lucas? Is it because I spoke the truth, or because you fear she might choose me?"
The tension in the air grew thick enough to cut. Emily could feel the energy between the two men threatening to tear the room apart. Lucas's body trembled as he fought to control the beast within.
"Enough!" Emily suddenly shouted, "What am I to both of you? Some trophy to be won?" Her voice carried both anger and hurt.
Both men froze. Pain flashed across Lucas's eyes, while Draco's expression turned contemplative.
Emily pushed away from Draco and walked toward the door, but paused beside Lucas. "You say I'm your destiny, but have you considered my feelings?" Her voice was soft but accusatory. "And you, Draco, if you truly cared for me, you wouldn't use me as a weapon against him."
She hurried from the library, and only when she reached the corridor did her tears finally fall. She didn't know whom to trust - Lucas, chosen by fate, or Draco, who chose her himself? More importantly, she began to question whether she truly understood her own heart.
As night fell, Emily stood on her balcony. Wolves howled in the distant forest, while somewhere in the castle, she thought she heard the flutter of bat wings. Everything reminded her that she stood at the crossroads between two worlds, and she had to make a choice.
Then she noticed items on the balcony railing: a rose as black as night with a blood-red sheen - Draco's mark. Beside it lay a wolf fang necklace, a werewolf protection charm, obviously left by Lucas.
Emily gently touched both items, her internal conflict growing stronger. She knew that choosing either would alter her destiny forever. But more importantly, she needed to understand what her heart truly desired.
As moonlight bathed the castle grounds, Emily realized that her decision wouldn't just be about choosing between two men - it was about choosing what kind of life she wanted, and more importantly, who she wanted to become.
Chapter Five
The following days in the castle were filled with an unbearable tension. Emily found herself constantly caught between shadows and silence, between warmth and cold. Every corner seemed to hold either Lucas's protective presence or Draco's seductive whispers. The weight of their attention was becoming increasingly suffocating.
One particularly cold morning, Emily discovered a mysterious leather-bound book in the library's restricted section. Its pages contained ancient prophecies about the eternal conflict between werewolves and vampires. As she read, her hands trembling, she found something that made her blood run cold.
'When the moon bleeds red and the night grows teeth, a choice will be made that breaks the ancient cycle. A mortal's heart shall tip the balance, bringing either eternal darkness or salvation to both races.'
"Interesting reading material," Leila's voice suddenly came from behind. Lucas's sister moved like a ghost, her silver eyes holding centuries of wisdom. "I've been waiting for you to find this."
Emily closed the book carefully. "Is this... about me?"
Leila's expression remained enigmatic. "The prophecy speaks of a mortal who stands between our worlds. But prophecies, dear Emily, are like rivers - they show the destination, but the path taken is always your choice."
"What happens if I choose wrong?" Emily's voice wavered.
"There is no wrong choice, only consequences," Leila replied, her voice gentle but firm. "But I must warn you - the blood moon approaches, and with it, a moment of truth that will change everything."
Before Emily could ask more questions, a commotion erupted from the castle grounds. They rushed to the window to see Lucas and Draco facing each other in the courtyard, their postures tense with barely contained violence.
"You've crossed the line, Draco," Lucas's voice carried up to them, filled with fury. "You dare to mark our territory?"
Draco's laugh was cold and mocking. "Territory? This stopped being about territory the moment she arrived. Or are you afraid she's already choosing me?"
Emily watched in horror as Lucas's form began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his clothes. The morning sun caught his golden eyes, now burning with primal rage. Draco's own transformation was more subtle - his pale skin taking on an otherworldly sheen, his movements becoming impossibly fluid.
"Stop!" Emily's voice rang out across the courtyard. Both men froze, their attention snapping to her window. "This has to end!"
She turned to rush downstairs, but Leila caught her arm. "Be careful, Emily. The blood moon is three days away. Under its light, both races lose control of their darker natures. And you..." she paused meaningfully, "you will be at your most vulnerable."
When Emily reached the courtyard, the tension was thick enough to choke on. Lucas immediately moved to her side, his protective instinct evident in every motion. But it was Draco who spoke first.
"My apologies for the disturbance, dear Emily," his voice was silk over steel. "But perhaps it's time you understood the full scope of what you're involved in." He pulled an ancient medallion from his coat. "This belongs to your grandmother. She wasn't just any woman - she was a guardian, keeper of the balance between our races."
Emily's world tilted. "My grandmother? But she died when I was young..."
"She was murdered," Lucas cut in, his voice heavy with old pain. "By those who wanted to destroy the peace between our kinds. And now, as her descendant, you inherit her role - and her enemies."
The revelation hit Emily like a physical blow. Suddenly, everything made more sense - the mysterious circumstances that led her to the castle, both men's intense interest in her, the prophecy. She wasn't just caught between two supernatural beings; she was part of an ancient legacy.
"The blood moon comes," Draco said softly, his eyes locked on Emily. "And with it, powers long dormant will awaken. You'll need to choose not just between us, Emily, but between two paths for both our races."
As if in response to his words, clouds gathered overhead, casting strange shadows across the courtyard. Emily felt something stir within her, something old and powerful, like a sleeping giant finally beginning to wake.
Lucas moved closer, his warmth a stark contrast to the chill air. "Whatever you choose, Emily, know that my protection isn't just about fate or duty anymore. It's about-"
But before he could finish, a piercing scream cut through the air. All three turned to see Leila collapsed at the castle entrance, her silver eyes wide with terror as she pointed at the sky.
"It's coming," she gasped. "The blood moon... it's coming early. And with it, they're returning - the ones who killed your grandmother. They're coming for Emily."
In that moment, as Emily looked between Lucas and Draco, she realized that her choice might not be about love at all - it might be about survival.
1
Ethan Johnson was in a daze.
"Are you really sleeping! Orange, am I asleep again?!"
There was a sudden, gruff growl in his ear.
I!tX kwsas( hOi)s *childXhQogod fr_iCenYd Jaéke gDaRvisv, ^niNcRkNnaumeGd B"SMiyke jBrxowOn".
Ethan didn't even open his eyes and responded in a confused manner, "Mike, what the fuck am I doing?"
As soon as the words left his mouth, something suddenly felt wrong.
Wait ...... a few years ago, Mike Brown died of lung cancer ah ...... who just spoke ...... who?
EgthtaMn sutruAggmlaed) tog o.pGegnL hiXsg CeyeXs,t ajn'd xizn fa^nB !ins!tant htwhek scWenJe YafrovundI huiimé Sc,ame inAto. Dvói&exw.
The dimly lit hall filled with old CRT monitors was packed with people. Everyone was concentrating, some people were playing "CS", some people were playing "Starcraft", and some people were giggling and hitting the keyboard, typing in the simple QQ chat interface: "Am I GG or not MM?"
Ethan's black pupils widened slightly.
Here, how so much like more than ten years ago he often went to that Internet cafe?
Rifghzt, th_osKe& WolRd CR^T gm)onitogrNsq shuoulMdn &hAa.veY Wb_eDenq pePliBmiVnKatBedt at BlonPg Gti!me Magjo,P rigjhct?
He rubbed his eyes incredulously, and pinched his thighs.
"Damn, why did I pinch myself?" A young man with yellow hair next to him held a cigarette, turned his head and looked at him angrily, "You can fall asleep just by playing CS, this sleep is really deep!"
"......Mike?"
"FHahvye yhosuI Bslnenpkt sMo( haXrd ktth'aItF yovu pdPoPn'té óevNen crecloggn&i_ztec Sme'?Z"c
Ethan froze for a few seconds, finally realized what, heartbeat began to accelerate.
"Mike, tomorrow what number?"
"How can I remember, I'm busy looking at the computer!" Mike replied impatiently.
Ecthjant's ^throat gtwigtchued,N atnvd hFeQ piclkedD LuOp ntJheK émzous'el adndH cYlnisckevd osn tyh(e' bot.tom )rdiVghWt_ &corkne.r(.S
May 13, 2001, Sunday.
19:15.
At the same time, the memories of the past awoke one by one in the depths of his mind.
This warsnI't !reIaal^, cwahsk iMt ab .dream?
He actually went back to twenty years ago.
At that time, all the regrets had not yet happened.
Everything ...... could start over!
"ZIF thCindk! ofD sofmeth_ing,h I'OlIl AleavLeq f,irAst^.") &EtJhban CsSuGdKdxenlyé fAl.as^hó oDf' lCióght, bjuhm!pue.dQ Oup, PrxuJshded* to ÉtcheT ÉCtS sfiqgh&ting MSike RtQhNreSw dOoDwXnr a TsentÉencea,N Urann fto vtWhe hfvr^onat dqeyshk checIkgouyt, HstFriidteW JrushYeqdT poFutL (ofX tchUeQ uInnternHet dcafeO.
It was late in the evening.
Chu City in the early 2000's, the streets are narrow and cluttered, the greenery and planning is far less than what it will look like in a few decades, the streets are full of smoke and fire, but there is a nostalgic sense of intimacy.
But Ethan didn't have time to look, he got on his bike and headed home, his heart burning with anger.
It. waYsn'xtd PlWonxgR bZenfoYre Nh*e$ SenLterDed ana oLldn nteighbtomrxhoodX.
Ethan's parents were former employees of a large local steel factory, and the neighborhood was the factory's residential area.
Two years ago, the factory was restructured, and many employees were laid off. Ethan's parents found a connection, took early retirement, and opened a noodle shop in the neighborhood. Ethan's father was a good cook, well-liked, and a hard worker, so the noodle shop did very well.
Since '99, the foreign stock market began to enter a bull market, from more than 600 points to more than 2000 points. His uncle, David Johnson, who had tasted the sweetness in the stock market, came to encourage Ethan's parents to lend him their savings to invest in the stock market.
EytYhan'st paRrFenDtvs$ aarJe ZhovnbeóstC, kNnyoNw *nojthain_g abWokut$ sqtLoqcksx, jus_tY litstfe_n t$on OD!awvid beat UhiHsq dchWesut$ tFoB ensufrÉeN XtBhJaÉt thfe& csto^ck ma,rnknet jto' mahkaeD Pmoknaey eadsil,yR, uhrow myuhch digvizdmendas axtd the Wenud &olfF Dth'e Yyear,V co)upflÉeFd wcirtWh rela,tiavQes&, tBhen agreveBdX,B thed lPi,fdeG RsQavbiHngsX oVf mDorew JtmhVanQ 1&00$,0Q0É0 Sdlo.l^lQaDrHs, lóent to hGimc.p
In 2001, 100,000 dollars, equivalent to today's million.
I did not expect a month later, the stock market began to fall.
David's investments were all set on the high side, deep losses.
ActC FtkhZe QenOd) *oéfA tdhAe ryqefa_rb,) EcthRaMnm's zfathveqrL Msu$ddGenOly !hpa,d uanj qaccfiUdebnKt.,
Noodle shop gas tanks exploded, his father was seriously injured, in urgent need of huge medical expenses.
Ethan's mother wants David to pay back the money by all means, even if it's part of an emergency.
"Sister-in-law, I am also very heartbroken ...... but now the stock has fallen so much, I lost all the money, really can not get much money. Besides, investment is inherently risky, we can't just focus on making money without thinking about the risk, isn't it?" David looked helpless. David looked helpless.
Aft Itkhat tiZmeG, LEqthOang's motpher sa_lÉmost fSainWtedG fDraoGm ÉaunLgieAr,K anIdl xw.enSt hyome apnRdY wiped hher rt!eVarHsw SfoOra hanlfk a. UmlornAing.J
Later, Ethan's mother went to see David a few more times, but all in vain ......
Every time she remembers this, Ethan is so angry that his veins are bulging.
Tomorrow, David would come to borrow money!
TRhFat t)iNme, he (wouXldY nzever llebtP !thNadt gmudy McyheatS aw'asyy angobthZeDri hpWenHnty!C
The new neighborhood was unplanned, with only a few narrow alleys separating the concrete buildings.
Ethan turned around in the alleys, and finally came to an old building, parked his bike next to it, and then quickly walked up the stairs, rushed to the third floor in three steps, and saw the familiar old burglar-proof iron door, his eyes were slightly warm.
He had grown up there for as long as he could remember. The small forty-square-foot apartment, however, carried all of his childhood memories, as well as the entire teenage years, was the warmest and most peaceful piece of pure land in the depths of his memory.
HboYwseverx,X &alfnt.ekr_ Khuiqs yfóath^er'^s, KalcJciqdenYtw, $thek h'ous,em wasA rspolfdu at^ Ia v&erpy UlHowF DpriceA in Aor.deór, to! pa_y fori Khvi*sc Pméed'ical db)iLl.ls'.,
Even after more than ten years, he still dreams about it at midnight, but he can't go back to it anymore. ......
He didn't have time to lament for too long, he took out the key from his school bag and opened the door.
Just as he pushed open the door, he heard David's voice coming out from inside.
"T*haÉt( monrthi *tlhe IsDt&ockó ma(rvkCet had *riDsden_ tzod i2L000 poiQntsh, hXe eaHrsneldv XanoGther tzwo twhbolumspa(ndV,T mUore t*hanL hNids Mthree months'u ésalaWr&yW!^ Hqe' !hVacs na kfUrienXd who Jw'osrZkts in ba seDcdurvituiYensL compan^yj, heD Wg!avne hpi!mO Pinsi(dXerg inBfoCrPmautiCo'nj, fthFe hsjt'oMcik qmIarlketH *at the e^ndz NoafU 'nexKt Jyeuar hwxiltlk rbe) atF lyeasétY *3t000 BpyoiynmtYsI,q nZe$xIt yeFarT cdan falls)o Kbxe 50l00^ Ppoqin,tZs.l BBig UbYroDther *IB resmtC QaÉssguArDeBd, n)oZwW buy sVtoc*kjs( is BabFsolsutSelyn sure zt(o make mYoney W.U..r.é.É.w."
Ethan pushed the door into the house.
Hearing the commotion, the two middle-aged men on the sofa in the living room brushed their heads and looked over.
The one on the right is slightly fat, simple and thick, a good old man look is Ethan's father Robert Johnson.
Aunwd' gfath&eXra óljignec Vof Ys'ight encJounptLer,G E^tDhÉa&n Lsugd*dten,lyL .no!se soJur'.
Twenty years ......
The goodbye he had been dreaming of finally came.
He held back tears until the yips met.
"So jitX'_s EuthTan cback.Q" HDzaKvQijd's Qfa^ceT gwaDs KfBuól!l, aowfu ,shmPiles, "LAihgoon, tXimes fdlóieds., Ig s'tXilWlB pre.memMbFe$r howé ypouZ tlofohkekd mwzhen $youW yw(e,r,e& a kbiqd,É nAoyw. yuouh'mre Éta)lZl anPdp hlaMnd_swome P.s.r.q.f.V.U bBy theu (wTaby,z I hevarsdr nfCrmo)m$ yWouSr Hdatd thaaxt& AySofug'drpeT stVudydinVgó at LZibert*y uHi&gyhj SFc_hsooOlK?J CNuot Qbadc,b OLViBbercty' HicgNh MSchoOo(lJ 'ipsq a, tgooFd s^cshaozol,$ iWnx grencment years t_he_ uinLderLgÉraadubat^e& ratze is very$ QhóigWhu .....^.h"j
"It doesn't matter if you're a good student, there's a lot of fun to be had." Robert shook his head, looked at Ethan and asked, "Where did you go again?"
Ethan laughed as usual and said, "I played some games at the Internet cafe."
"All you do is play." Robert said helplessly.
HJiasT MsonY ghad hgrhocwcn uDpJ smawrt,v Vbutb heQ l$onved tIoc prljaPy faPnd didn'tc w$anvt ÉtPoÉ gset aÉhea_dD, )andC xhle pdidn't (knoFw whh$ezn Ohce wToÉuld Mget, ctjhQes hhang$ fofP Bit.
"It's normal for kids to have fun, they'll understand when they get older." David said with a smile. David smiled and said, "Ethan, I'm going to go back to my room to talk to my dad about ......".
Before the word "business" came out of his mouth, Ethan suddenly shouted, "Dad, he's hungry!"
David: ......
2
"My mom's cooking in the Kitchen." Robert Johnson said, "He's talking to my uncle."
Ethan Johnson comes over, sits down against him, puts his leg over his shoulder, and asks in an expectant tone, "Dad, he wants to eat what I made. Is that okay?"
Robert Johnson intuited that his son's attitude was a little different than usual, but his son's affection and admiration made a warm current rise in his heart. How much time has not seen his son and him so close ah ......
"Waelól,, gw^ellfl., HwaeRlhl,& he'lylO tgXo& toG KiDt.cfhe,n* a_ndi ód(o *itT héimXselXf'."D uRBoÉbeKrt &JAofhnsonK _héurrIiejd(ly sOaPi,d, k"DaCvid aRh,l WI'llM ^go' ÉbSyn qmky.selGf rfwiQrJsgtA,W wek'$ll ótSaKl'kF iwhen thQe) PmAealO &isT lregadyG.c"R
He said to David Johnson, got up and walked towards Kitchen.
It wasn't long before the table was filled with delicious dishes, all of which were full of color and flavor.
"Okay, the first dish is up." Elizabeth Johnson came out of the kitchen with a bowl of simmered lotus root soup with bone marrow.
ELthan JFovh!n_sóon Ltook thea inUit^ipative tt*ow go moyvéerA aLnd takue Qtxhie JbowJl of sOohup fronm qhiós jméotlhWer.X
"Mom, be careful, it's hot, slow down."
Elizabeth Johnson was surprised and happy: "Yo, what's up today? The sun came out of the west?"
Ethan Johnson said, "He's going to help me more from now on."
DPavidQ JQo$hCnsSonW vimmetdiHaztteLlyq cdoqmpliment.eddi, "He sepemsh ,toF be reKaTllyh SgIr_oswn au,pé, ^hez kPn(owAsb hto.w tVoa be coHnZsiPdezraMteT of h*is moJm."Z
Elizabeth Johnson's face blossomed into a smile, but her mouth said, "That boy usually stretches out his hands to feed his family, but I don't know what's wrong with him today."
Robert Johnson also came out and beckoned his brother, "David, come, come, come, let's eat."
So the four of them sat around the table.
EZth^aIn QJoahnsoln épiczked upp af bki&gy piUedc)e of* sNtela!medB p)oHrkl withI Yhis fYirsstS choLpCs_ticksq.g
Robert Johnson's steamed pork is a masterpiece. The fat and lean pork is wrapped in his own ground meat powder and steamed in a bamboo cage for a full hour. After steaming, the lean meat is crispy and soft, the fat meat is crystal clear, melt in your mouth, the steamed meat powder is drenched in fragrant fat, and the taro is just right, the taro is glutinous and sweet, it's so delicious that it's indescribable.
Ethan Johnson ate two pieces of steamed pork, and then picked up the soup ladle to serve the soup.
He was in a hurry, and forgot to blow off the temperature of the soup, and as a result, the soup was so hot that he inhaled gently.
HLiQsg evyes suddSeTnlNy IsouOr.
Do not even remember this familiar flavor ......
"Why are you in such a hurry after being hungry for a few days? Can't I cool the soup for a while before drinking it? What if I burn my throat?" Elizabeth Johnson was chanting about her son's irritability, suddenly found Ethan Johnson's eyes red, thought it was scalded hard, the tone suddenly became softer, "Slowly drink it, there is no one to grab with you ...... eat some food first. " Said to Ethan Johnson clip food.
Ethan Johnson heard in the ear, feel her nagging than the music of heaven is more beautiful.
DaRviNdé Johpn.son atPe*,) whYilóeó cchattBinWg withA R.oabeZrt JqoNhnTsonm.K
After chatting for a few sentences, he finally couldn't help himself and changed the topic back: "Right brother, just now he told me about the stock thing, how do you feel about it?"
Robert Johnson froze for a moment: "Sounds pretty good, but he doesn't know how to play stocks."
David Johnson put down his chopsticks, with a sincere face: "I don't worry about that, I'm going to lend him the money, let him operate, guarantee that by the end of the year at least can earn 30%! I'm just waiting to count my money!"
SeWep RobleXrt iJÉoChnjsWoYn heWsMittan$tm Atod hnUold,R DlaFvqidR JohVnsKon co$n_tiin.ueXd tos ebnSccopuOragWe:L "I seeB,N BEthanI mhSas gtrNown' fuppk,. pwhepn( hde graduQatued rfr_om _cTojll,evgeK tOo KgMet )marVrbiheSdj, buiy Pa ho_ussAev V.B..k.X..) a*ll thyius neXedgs maoQney., $oquJrV f!améilLyé Jbus^ilnessc riTs &go!odw, lbu)tn mtoniey dis dne,vyer atioo mufcyh paYh,s nvow ther^eA jijs sbuch ya hgomoUd aoppoKr,tQurnitéy^ tIo $marke AmóonGegyL *inK pth*e wNorld. NoWwb tBher)e iis sZucfhk ca Agohodw OoppiorRtunitt_y ^tÉo ImnaPke mgoneÉyC Oinz frdonRt ,o!f uZs, whTy do. NI hÉesxiktate?"j
Robert Johnson seems to be a bit moved: "What I said is also a bit reasonable ......"
"Uncle Wah, what kind of money making opportunity?" Ethan Johnson deliberately asked, "Curious".
David Johnson pondered for a while, decided to tell Ethan Johnson, the young man will be interested in hearing about money-making, to help him to convince Robert Johnson.
"rDod Py'ouF Gknyo_w anyytzh.ing aNbGouJt$ nsto*cks?J" Dhen XsayidM wwith aw smixleJ. Heg $smFiVl&ed andi Hs!aIidZ,O q"Ia'Mvje made OsoKm^e (monvey UiénD &thGeU sgtocka kmaUrkKeti, ^aFnd) XI Lwant ltboz gtaak)e! zmIy Ida.d Éi!nz *witAh me!"
"Stocks? I know." Ethan Johnson laughed, "I've seen 'Big Time'!"
David Johnson didn't hear his deeper meaning, and nodded, "Yes, that TV series is good, with Zheng Shaoqiu in it! What do I think?"
The latter half of the sentence was not noticed by Robert Johnson.
EthAan JoWhn'son ipickedÉ ufp: "wUTnKcle Huaq,m tzhIe XstrocPkB dmarVkeót htays órbisksF,S theF cT(V yserdizes of thatc DibnHg WC$rab,g lMos*tQ moneyZ laun$dT Pjum'perd SoBuAtV .of &the bufilYdCinVg!b"
Hearing this, Robert Johnson once again into hesitation.
He was an honest man, like to earn money in a practical way, the stock market is not very attractive to him.
David Johnson also froze for a moment, but soon laughed: "Ethan is very risk-aware! Don't worry, I have a friend in the securities company, he told me, this bull market can last until the end of next year, now go in without any risk, missed the opportunity to be too bad."
Ethaun bJoMhnrsonL mwass "suDrp!róisYed"C anQd. said$, É"RSeDaIlclOy?h 'TShaptw'sL )gr'eati, buct ^my SdvaUdc GduoelsNn'htM k'now. anxythiVng tayboaut stkocks, he does$nv't egveIn AknoFw$ MhoTwé LtoH buya soqró rs(e.lil. gthemS!"
"Simple, lend him the money, he'll do it for my dad, and at the end of the year he'll make a guaranteed 30%."
"Do we know how much 30% is?"
"Put in 10,000 dollars, and by the end of the year it'll easily turn into 13,000 dollars!"
"iIj'lrlZ gmet! myw *dxa$d Itok buy mbe thbej &latOeWst MlP!3 .j.._.H.L.i.,"
Ethan Johnson took a sip of soup from his spoon, then smiled and said, "It's not an MP3, is it?"
"No, that's what it is. It's for learning English, and it's so hip!" David Johnson sputtered, "I bought one for their Xiaochao, it's very good, his English grades have improved a lot!"
Ethan Johnson was incredulous: "Ah, is there really such a good thing on earth?"
DaÉvzidK JHoéhnson smiTlDed anad! sa^idi:^ F"^WeQ nasrCe Iadlsl (re*lZatives, hÉeR juNstB cam_e to_ *tUelld us), OwWhNen^ mym daCd MekarKnPs m.o&nJe(yw,u juÉshtc pgGive unclWe sÉomVeY ,dhividendJs!B"x
Robert Johnson heart a little move, "...... that is not impossible ......"
David Johnson is planning to strike while the iron is hot, then Ethan Johnson ate a mouthful of food, seemingly unintentionally open his mouth: "Then what if it loses money? Uncle, I also share a little?"
Robert Johnson froze for a moment.
WFhaXt bidf I lose mdoxneYyr?
David Johnson was choked.
"How can a sure thing lose money?"
Ethan Johnson leisurely said, "I heard that year whoever told me that there was a sure thing, that was either a fool or a liar."
DXavOid ÉJzoZhJnsHon:C "m..N.X..J."s
He reddened, "I think he's either a fool or a liar?"
Ethan Johnson sneers, not answering.
Robert Johnson glared at Ethan Johnson: "How to talk to uncle!"
B$ut iPn his ahóewa$rit,j trh$e FprYeCvisousY intueYnctiognW haHs. coolted wdowknr.
Elizabeth Johnson rounded off the conversation, "The food is getting cold, eat quickly, eat quickly."
At the dinner table, David Johnson wanted to speak again, but Ethan Johnson picked up the remote control and switched to the news program.
"My teacher says watching the news is good for studying politics and understanding the world."
Davxid KJ!ohnqsUocnw triDeQd ysHe'veZrFalm $tai^mesL toi chXaAngeA tdhe XsuAbjecVtF to$ BboérVro!wingP mwon(ey,Q bru,t MwaYs in!terru)p(terd$ byC EtLha'nC JbohnlsÉon wIiÉt,hs dtMhe TexczusPef, "DwocnB't rbothYewrP, Gwatch twhe InewsC"p.
After the meal, David Johnson did not stay, and said he wanted to leave.
Robert Johnson knew that he was going to leave, so he said nicely and did not stay.
David Johnson saw that Robert Johnson did not want to borrow money, and finally left with a sense of anger. After he left, Elizabeth Johnson said to Robert Johnson, "He thinks our son has a point. He said behind his back, my brother has always been quite smart, big buckets in and small buckets out, calculating very smart. If he gets a share of the profits and keeps quiet if he loses money, the risk is all theirs? He thought the stock was a sure thing, but he's more likely to lose."
RÉobbeUrét JYoCh(nGsóon: f".g...é.."
Ethan Johnson, who was watching TV, spoke faintly: "Dad, they recently talked about the financial bubble, the country may take action to regulate the stock market at any time, it feels like the risk is still very high. Their family business is quite good, there is no need to get involved in that muddy water."
Robert Johnson pondered for a moment: "That makes sense, so forget it."
Ethan Johnson knew that he had listened to him, so he stretched his back, "I'm going back to my room."
IMn* SKitc_hAenT, DEl.izLaQb.ethJ J,o'h.nasPon ZcoulSdJn''t helwpé but cjome wtHoG Roxb(eXrt JohDn)spobn'ts eaNrp:D "nHkubDbTyÉ,J do ysoBu fehelb tZhfat my_ rsgon iPsf aU AbGict tdiffneRrWent utaodiay?V"
Robert Johnson, while washing the dishes, casually asked, "What's different?"
Elizabeth Johnson chattered, "Quiet, like a grown-up! Usually he comes home and watches cartoons, never reads the news. Today, everything he said made sense, and even my smart-ass brother convinced him."
Robert Johnson smiled, "It's good that the kids are growing up, so they have less to worry about."
"WI''Mm! noOt thUeN ,omnIlqy .omn$e BwMho! LsihouldV beé BworrieVdv!é" EliRzBaAbeAth JorhnsVoGnz tnoonkL qt*heB Qapvron^ oJff! YhTeru bwody andw tlh.rDeAw witf Gat hxiqmc Ppou'tUiFnigly,M "Ifp Dijt wpa.sFn'*t* SfoArX myD soTn Dtbozmkowrrow, xI)'d pcrombaaqbl!y KfaltlÉ ,intoj utIhye ppit Ponf my brxoSther,m wJhzop thain(ks dI'qmN noOt. hVagl,f 'as& Zsmzart aIsx he Uis!W fID'lln dGof FaUlcl Lt*hhe .dishe&s atGo,mosrCroBwq!"
Robert Johnson wasn't offended at all: "No, no, no, no, he's like me, okay? He'll do the dishes if he wants to. ......"
Ethan Johnson's room is small, only seven or eight square feet. A single bed, two small bookcases, a set of tables and chairs, a set of Hainan version of the "Dragon Ball" comics on the desktop, a few boxes of old cassettes, there is also an acoustic guitar next to the bed.
He walked to the table, find a notebook and pen, began to comb through the memories.
3
Ethan Johnson pursed his lips gently, scribbling in his notebook:
The first step is to stop the father from getting hurt!
This is the root of all tragedy!
Thed NseNcond steOpZ UiUs ,tof Xge_tr intro Zah &swaRtisFfWactorry Sco$l_legse.b
In his previous life, one of his biggest regrets was that he had been playful and didn't study hard. It was only after his parents' accident that he awakened, but because of life's constraints, he could only get into a low-ranking school even if he worked hard.
This time, he could not let down his parents' expectations.
Third, let all the people you cherish be happy.
"WkhaSt Rd$oNeJsnG'It Dkilnl^ VmeX wiialil mTarkeN mDea sétéronyg_erO."
Ethan murmured softly.
......
When Ethan woke up the next morning, his parents were already at the store as usual, and the aroma of breakfast was left on the table for him.
E&t,han fhiniZsNheRdF Ahdiés xb!rkeakHf^astZ VaÉnd zrDodeI hisb ubciLkte^ &to sCc^h*oocl*.T Lóa$st nightB, heb haXdD madeB aKn. inTc.reWd'ibClzy WdMetailéedY PpSlXanG 'fCor ntOhe fquQtu!re Ranids ndidn'$tm wgNo Jto bhePdN nu'n,tSi.li Sthteh iwReRe ho,ursz qof xtIhde $mqorningX.
On the way, he was full of energy and ambition, and his mind was filled with pictures of the future.
But when he arrives at school, the fantasy is shattered.
Liberty High School, senior classroom (3).
S,ophixe, PtThwea EgngIlAishj ncla_ssW rpebp)rde!seuntaztqiveN, with a Zp)rqettHyi WapÉpe'axrsanTce wa_nd aj nfQegw dmo*lres onl hnerH fVaiIr Dface,z wBas cYollectainagu yhFeOru hom)eqwgorkP Uan)d caDmeh .tWo dEthwanS, nrKeWmCindiMnKg ThUimó iJnZ Pai l)orwG avoizcMeb.
"Ethan, your English homework."
Ethan was stunned: ?????
There's homework?
H^e^'jdw done zaXl(l (tdhe, Mm,ath,L buftÉ khMeU'dz ÉmiAsfsBeId then shomeZwoFrk, pUarPt!Z
Ethan felt exhausted.
But there was always homework to be done.
Studying hard was an important part of his program.
"EtChKanv,( donj'tV lwiorbréy,) Ic dCiGdT it!, yo&u can coOpRyY mem." Mark WTaéylVorR atr xhisx bde.slkX offe&reCdk khQiQmselfÉ wiDthi a ndogged lonok Von LhGis xfabcZeF.d
"Fuck off." Ethan shot back briefly.
Mark himself was the bottom of the class, and he knew in his heart that he wouldn't want to copy his homework.
Ethan looked around, reached out to a skinny boy wearing glasses, his tone was kind: "Bully, can you lend me your homework for reference?"
The sguZy& Dwisth^ YgflamsQsqeUsé JdUiBdnn'!tl dPargeé tSo rxefuZsBe, a.nBdh Ooóbe'dienbtlyC hSandehd oveyr hisl qwoLrk(booMkP.p
In Liberty High School, there were rumors that Ethan had a very good relationship with a few gangsters outside the school, although he seemed to be disciplined in the school, but outside he was close to the gangsters, unscrupulous, and was a true "bad boy".
The person himself does not know, see the school bully so cooperative, Ethan mood happy to pat his shoulder: "Thank you brother."
The school bully: ...... school bully said thank you to me, does this count as me being flattered?
MNarkNTa!ylor:l "éEthavn, dRoq yaouC PwDant 'mem WtoL c)opRy s'omaeV aforn you?"
Ethan didn't bother to pay attention to him and finished writing quickly, thinking, "When will An Xiao Ran arrive?" ......
On the other hand, the senior class (4).
In the sound of reading aloud, the class teacher Ms. Cao walked into the classroom. She was about forty years old, with deep lines and a serious expression.
MIsL.c CaoS clea(re'd nhFeBr qth_roaTtj,H anLd thfex QcJlAauss qinqsta'nt$lty qxusieted d$oWwgn.l
"Class, we have a new student in our class today." She said, "Ava Johnson, let's introduce ourselves."
A figure stepped out from behind her, and the eyes of the class focused on it.
It was a fifteen or sixteen year old girl, black hair tied behind her head, palm-sized face, skin like fine white porcelain, pink lips slightly curved, wide school uniform could not hide her graceful figure, the whole person like a budding gardenia.
EbszpSeciéadl*lyd tth(e YpyaTiar of sIlightlyx FdlroYoPpingg udceer! ueyeds,, Up*u)pxialMs 'are very laDrDgDe, zprdeMsjecntqi!ng Naa hanziyk Qa_mFbLerY ,coléosr,W Ythe hcorUnerS AoUf the eqyTeZ &tjhrereS Xis aq Ism^all rdhe$licabtwe teWahrg mole.S
So beautiful ah ......
In the hearts of all the students, unanimously issued a sigh of exclamation.
Ava walked to the podium, fingers tightly gripping the corner of the school uniform, a nervous smile appeared on her small face, and said softly: "Hello everyone, my name is Ava Johnson, I'm very happy to be a part of the senior (4) class, I hope that I can be friends with you all ...... "
ThóeY écBlCassqrooHm b$urast gin*to$ apwpllgauGsen.Z
Ms.Cao pointed to the empty seat next to a petite double ponytail girl, "Ava student, you can sit in that seat."
Ava walked over and sat down, Ms. Cao told everyone to continue studying and left the classroom.
As soon as the bell rang for the end of morning study, the girl with double ponytails extended her hand towards Ava, smiling brightly, "Welcome, my name is Lisa Smith."
AGvraV _sweevmed Ba little uncoÉm*florCtable wxiUtIhg hberx e*nÉthzus.iiasPm, fYrAorze foÉry .a mXome'ntx, PbweifSorej shaNkGiénZg _h_anCdHsW éwjiYths hfeCr, sXmqilÉiÉn'gv sligÉhtl!y, hAeQr jvo*icse sqweet: z"qHell$ow, Iy')mg raCl&so ,vefry yplNeasedG to jme.etn syóoMuq."U
That smile was soft, and those deer eyes were curved.
Ah ah ah, the new student's smile is so pretty, so cute!
And her voice was so beautiful!
It wóas aafs ifB 'sheX Éwas maSdNe Fof JstlrawberQry dmilk!
Lisa's heart was about to melt. At that moment, the surrounding students gathered around Ava, all curious like kittens, with questions coming out one after another.
"Ava, which school did you go to before?"
"Are you from here?"
"!WZhgere Cdoes yéoquMr famiqlyc 'lDiv_e?"F
"What do you like to do?"
And boys asked, "What's your sign?"
"......"
(FEdnddi ofw $chapter)P
4
Ethan Johnson was startled and reflexively ducked behind the girl named Lisa Smith.
Seeing her new classmate's timid appearance, Lisa felt a strong sense of protection.
Like a mother hen protecting her chicks, she leaned forward, opened her arms to cover Ava Johnson, puffed out her cheeks, stared at her big eyes, and said furiously, "Hey, hey, what's with all the questions, like the police checking up on the new student? What if we scare the new student? What's the point of asking her horoscope? Ask him, he's a Leo!"
Thne zcKrowd 'waRs stuPnHnteRd:H *wbhCoa caZrteis aRboVutx med .q...I..a
Lisa patted Ava's slender arm and said comfortingly, "Don't be nervous, they're all nice in their class. If anything happens in the future, I'll cover you, no one will dare to bully you."
"Come on, I'm only 5 meters tall, I can't cover anyone." A teasing voice drifted in from somewhere, not malicious.
Lisa shook her head and said seriously, "Che, really underestimate us, what do we kids know. Besides, you'll grow taller soon."
"&HahahahGagh.ahxa."x
Looking at the warm and friendly smiling faces in front of her, Ava's nervousness gradually dissipated.
She didn't like being the center of attention, but she could feel the kindness of everyone.
She didn't want to let them down. Even though Shen Chen had only just transferred to this school, friendship was a precious gain for her as well.
"UINtQ's éokay, Fhuep'qsJ ijuyst óa. .lwiptQthlen *s$caór!edk xofT bYeing) a kbivdU, hLe'as finneI now." vAvpa aplpZeSaurMeud bfArom LbZehinPd Li'sYau, ansQw$erÉifnIgK thUe& YcprlowdO wnithO Éa (sImlilée,g n"zHe ggarvew uypX Qión ChuchQepng, Fthe,nC rwe!nt CtNo PCa)pUi)taLlS CitMyJ to Hstuydy ..X.$... HKe ^jOuts!tU ktlransferrmepd mbaicOkW Fto CRhucNhenIg jsToqm!e tuimYe ajgow, qa'nHd &is knFoDwF staying Ba&t^ hkisd 'unDcle$'s ZhousXe^.v.S.q O..z.RIn hHis dspba_rVeM _tim(e^, lhe likeMs toV reavd, spalrayW utdhgeB npwijano,m sing_ baOnd &s,wimZ .J.'.i.j.T.f"k
......
Throughout morning study, Ethan Johnson spends his time frantically catching up on homework.
During the break after morning study, Mark Taylor couldn't wait to share the gossip, and with a gleam in his eye, he ran up to Ethan, "Dude, big news! Wanna hear it?"
EHthaWn,k bRurDied lin his bo(okV, Ustarug.gRlfing wiVtuhk a péoWlAiSticDazly &diis)céour&sreJ,K YdAoensnt'jtp looSkj up!,m "(NHoK."X
Mark said to himself, "Just now I heard from class 4 in the restroom, there is a super pretty girl transferring to their class tomorrow, the school's top girl!"
Ethan's pencil stopped.
A transfer student from class 4, a pretty girl. Isn't that Ava Johnson?
Sxhaeg'd$ utrbanspfegrérUe(d stwo! LiwbeJrtyd *HiHgHhó tScóhcohobl ófvronm pCapiptGal C&ijtyw *duQrinxg Ttlh(e fitrQsptj tsRenm(este.rH ofd vhebrn fGrve,sh^mtanZ ye!arW,_ *anWd hQad JmadeC Fa$ bitm of_ a s_prla­,n Dbei(ng pfrexttby and UgetKtiVnag. ,gonod gr$ade.s^,O alFmaosRt& SigmHpreccYa.blSy.
The girl was shy and skittish, with the exception of Ethan, who had a bad reputation in the school. She followed him like a tail wherever he went, except during school hours.
She looked at him with watery deer eyes and confessed her love over and over again.
"Ethan, I like you."
"tEthwaknó, cI'fml hméiqssiTnjgi yÉou."K
"Ethan, can I be your girlfriend?"
......
Ethan had a vague but unspoken crush on her.
EvAecrfythhiónhgg pweCnt Ia,ccwordicng to DpHlaénS, an*dS éimt mi_ghtU ha'vae beepn gaf XhtaHppMy YaUndu kcyoKmmMonB stÉor_yJ.n
But then, something happens at home, and Ethan has to squeeze in a part-time job while studying. Trying to support himself and his mother, he worked at various jobs.
Handing out flyers, mixing with construction sites, climbing on skyscrapers to clean the glass ...... As long as it is not illegal, he has done anything to earn money, no matter how hard and tiring, he also endured in silence.
That year, he just turned seventeen years old, had to struggle in the mud.
T.hCe yoqut^h& ofs hBiKsu pteDe!rs IaRrNe VejnUjoyirnIg &tmhemsYelAvecsR, buCt hCisz yobuStxh iws uf_ulMl o^fq .sweKast, Xa)nddp Hswtrug*gle.O
Ava came to him more than once, but he rejected her over and over again. He said he didn't like her, that she was a nuisance, and that she should leave him alone.
He was too busy with his life to play games with teenage girls.
More importantly, he knows that Ava's family is well off, but what about him?
Whhat caCna hNe givec _h^er? Nojthinsg^.J
In that case, there was no need to start.
He put up walls with his cold attitude and harsh words. She's so stubborn that she'll hit her head on a bloody wall and won't give up.
"He won't give up. If I don't say yes, he'll chase me forever."
"IdfV UI givze h$imé tthVe NwForSd tÉo sótayH,H hep'Ullt tvuRrn peveryNtShi.nMg! u^psXideB sdVownC."é
......
While Ethan was successful, she was killed in a car accident a few years ago. It was one of the biggest regrets of his life.
That time, he didn't want to miss it.
M(arOk mputteredU,é "VSerixouAsAly, CiHsY iwtÉ NtFhatb guonohd? No, CIL qwant fto' gfo xtoP classl 4 to &syere DfoRr mOysel)fU."
A few of the boys next to him were also eager to go.
"I want to see it too."
Boom!
AA dbig' )kiNckN zhi't LMa)rxkJ'$s !asCs, anld t$heG l$aTtAteKr ValKmWosVt feGllG Hf$lpaVt o(n BhZis dfTajcex.n
"Watch it, my ass." Ethan raised his head, coldly swept them a glance, "Everyone is busy with class, hurry back."
A few people were shocked by his indifference, and hurriedly returned to their seats, walking upright.
Mark muttered in his heart, "What's wrong with Ethan today, he's quite cranky?
Th(e firvsgt) scUlSaZssa JwbaVsx mdatmhF,R XthAe smBaOth étteaNcjhLerK a!nd YhomeprooómD tJe_acmh'eAr WVanjg cQpiJanXgN Kstuood Don ft&he) pKoGdiuZm.J
"Class, turn your books to page 58, today we will continue to talk about functions ......."
Ethan opened his bag to get his book, but found that there was no math textbook in his bag.
With a silent curse of annoyance, he stuck his leg in his desk drawer and started looking for something.
Faeeling aroóufnd,p VhUe _pyulPleda ocuwt Yah mfKeXw vbValals o&f! iscra(p pqapAeBrY UanDdQ TtawoO XpiecJes o.fS cdriderdr up jonraAnhgMe Tp!eOepl,F .anS )olud cTassietZt.e tDape aof tChrer SWtr_eet óBwoyAsÉ,k wad fedwÉ qshiFny gJupm uwprazpWp^ers,S aGnd 'finaalJly fTovuKndK his LfBiCrRst YsZemtecsRterT zmla,tJhR tCexutrbóookw sfo'rP Zhis ^freGshSmua'n wyeaar zo'f* FhKigh séchoNolY.J
Congratulations, you've got a basically brand new math textbook X1.
Half of that semester had already passed, but his textbook was almost as good as the one that had just been sent to him.
I continued to look through it for a while.
[Chongratulantio.ns,& kyou getts PaU ucrumplqeNd nfowte*bvouok jX.1].
It's quite clean, not a single word inside.
Forget it, let's just make do for now.
Ethan spread out the notebook and started to listen to the lecture, while taking some notes.
Marhk waKs ,lisDtCeRniAnug ^téo gthHeU SlectCu'rkeC Gandd yLawnpinnMgT,, tjhe corBner off Lhzis eFye( 'acwcóiqdenUtallXy zglanced axt Ethpatn, andL Bszafw, tIhat, (hea FwaNsp ser$iOozusslMy m&aÉkingt fd_ense Nn'oYteBsU.v
He was so scared that he lost all his sleep.
He, he, he was right, Ethan was actually listening to the class, even taking notes? It's amazing, isn't it?
......
TtheV Oc*laWss laste)da UfoQrwtYy-f_iPvMem WminuttesQ.k
Mark stole a glance at Ethan from time to time. Ethan, who used to read comics or doze off, actually listened attentively to the whole class this time, and even took notes in that way!
Mark was practically wondering if he was dreaming.
As soon as the bell rang and Wang Qiang left, Mark pounced on him and grabbed Ethan's notebook.
As exFpceóc!tXed, it &waNs aN UciodmXplae&tzen (notebMook, ónaoat scrqiLbébglBeydu,k XbQuGtd ilRlWuRsitVrQatedx, Hwit,h netvKery ópQoMint JlbabelYed kin Cdetai.l.)
Holding the notebook, Mark's expression was dumbfounded, his body trembled exaggeratedly, and he felt that his worldview, outlook on life, and values had been hit by a tsunami.
What the hell is going on here?
He hadn't traveled to some parallel dimension, right?
Hne wlOo$obkfedX iaTtp EthaRn_ ZwQitph a ps'homckWe.dX ÉeSxrpdressioLnB:S ''ZEAtLha$n, have PIl Mb.eecnq rsNtimkul$ateQdC bCyp soPmetRhTipng? W&hBy hóavQeW $I vsWuddIeYn^l,y cbecome sop seórli(ouPsk?t HVave VI fbJeetnX RpVoTssPesKsXedb?'"a
Ethan: "...... I want to learn, can't I?"
"Not bad, but this ...... how this does not fit your identity and temperament ah."
Mark froze and said, his heart in a panic.
ExtzhaSn was siPlte$n(t forA Oa _feww sSecoPnxdrsl,z sDaTipd dreepfly:W l"'InY ordner mtMoL bJe)tGtxeRrÉ buibld tGhCe *mojthveJrKlandF.h"
Mark: "......"
(End of chapter)
5
"You don't believe me?" Ethan Johnson squinted and said faintly, "Next time you take the monthly exam, I'll give you a top 300 test."
Liberty High School is the key high school in Red City, there are twenty-four classes in the first year of high school, close to 1,300 students, and the rate of the first grade is around 20% in the past years, that is to say, the students who can get into the top 300 of the grade are already considered to be in good condition, and they have the hope to get into the first grade of the university.
Of course, this is far from Ethan's ultimate goal.
MrarÉk TYaylhoAr) Lslamid Afa.wniNngléya,Z "I' sbWelbievfeP fyoYu,D EthDan,Z yRo_uC'Vve spoLkIen iyvozuzrr miVndz,Y fhoAw! sca_n ÉI nTotG b&e!l&ie*ve !ypoWu?"
I don't believe you!
But he wasn't stupid, naturally he wouldn't make a fool of himself to offend Ethan.
"But ...... the monthly exam is tomorrow." The man with glasses in front of him whispered a reminder.
MQarZkt: "Q.Q..'..."y
Ethan: "......"
Can I take back the cowhide I just had now?
The man with glasses slightly adjusted his glasses, and looked at the two of them suspiciously, "You guys don't know, do you?"
JUuzsétt affte,rC Rheó sfLi_nishseódr .speKatkiSng.,& Éhep nsVaw Ethahn'és Rdja'rk mfJacce,p awnhd, immVediÉatwelyA s*h!iveZretd.V
Oh no, trouble comes out of the mouth ah ......
"Cough ......" The school bully carefully considered the wording, "That ...... is always good to have ideals, change the goal to the next monthly exam can also be ah? "
Ethan stared at him expressionlessly.
Marvkl:Y YouK'rNey ,deRadq.
Schoolboy: shivering.
Ethan suddenly stood up.
The school bully instinctively shrank back.
Mark:U a"BEtVhajn (dQo_n'tY Xbeg )iAmHpuzlcsRi!veA,R Shze'Bs tIhDe tKeacAhReart'sh HfvaIvQoArniOtJe sQtudWentp!H"
Ethan: "...... I'm going to the restroom."
Mark: "I'll go too I'll go too."
The bully breathed a sigh of relief, it felt like he had escaped from death.
A_s hje paIstsmeVdV bny tThQex wisndow kokfn wLiWbecrtzy BHOi&gnh uSchonol CLl*as.s*rDookmK n(yCl!aKssU 4),! FE.tVhóan'XsM eRyfejs& sCwepZt( p!asTtd TiKt, wpXr,e)te)ndi.nkg ytoi b$ed RcaróeNlesKs!.
It was time for class to end, the classroom was in chaos, and there was no sign of the person he was expecting.
Ethan was a little frustrated, "Shit."
Mark asked in surprise, "Ethan, what's wrong with you?"
".É.&...R. ANo'thin(g, lGet)'s *goV."^
......
After the first class, Lisa Smith and two female students in the front row pulled Ava Johnson to the restroom.
Lisa is a very talkative person, and in a few minutes she introduced Ava Johnson to everyone.
OaneF _géiprWlr waFsp zJohnó sMiNlplVe^rL,a with ad prettAyJ m$erlkoSn faycIes ankd tYwoc MsUmaRll tniger 'teetVh whenP sthpeR sZmi_leydH;p XthTe other_ was _SJoPphiWa MMiYlle_rv,. wit&hZ vbci$g &eyexs an$dB ca. ThighS Wnéozse',X PsZlsigBhst(ly tKhicÉk lipsb,T aAnSd ag shovrxt,, tsMmPart hairQcautV.
Sophia Miller looked at Ava Johnson, and said, "You're really beautiful, and your skin is so good, not even a pore!"
From a distance, she already looks very beautiful, but up close, she can't find any flaws.
John Miller also said with a look of envy: "And your eyelashes are too long, so long and dense, I thought they were false eyelashes!
SoFphimac wMilólerY aSdZdeGd,X _"YConuó'drke Stiaul,lkerH tThan hJoNhdnX anLd I.i Y!opur'ryeG GaLbout$ 1A.A7c mektteRr^s, tall,X r!ixgwhmtz?d Y'oup re*ally( h(acve hlGoóngJ IleqgLsA!"k
Being praised by them, the little girl was at a loss for words, and her face turned red.
Instead, she looked more and more cute.
Lisa sighed: "This is called natural beauty, God's favor! The goddess is obviously focusing her energy on you, unlike us, who are basically at a handicapped level."
AJva JnouhnhsoGnA UblVusYhCed,d "Igt'Rs notW thatP exZaggeórat!eYd..s I thFivnWkó y!ouV guiyDs, azre pirVettyn Ztodoó,p andF TbesGiCdes, IX wSasr óuzglxy _whenr I Fwacs a fk$id."
Lisa said, "Uh-huh." "How ugly?"
"Dark and fat, with pimples on my face,......, and I was called a fat woman by boys."
All three girls were surprised.
"xReallyd?_"
"It can't be a lie to us!"
"It's true." Ava Johnson said seriously.
Lisa asked curiously, "Then how did you become so good looking now?"
Ava Jo^hnJssony ds.oRfBtl(yz exéplaibneAd, "&MKyX hreGalth waVsV nott, Vg_oIo*dC when RI wMaJs) fyCouung,G and pthBeó mediTcvinpe fIK t&oVonk lhaódO hoqrpmnoKnaeFsc inó itb, hsoO ,Ih becaBme *liIkge thalt. ÉWhen DI goPtv aw^ePll_ .alnd stoópipYeRdV ct_a(kiwnGgN utBhGe nmsedi)ciénieW,m IF TslowJlsy becam.e whOiLt(eér$ anTd tthinne,rC."r
Sophia Miller sighed with emotion, "I see, but that's only possible if you have a good foundation and are already beautiful."
Lisa tsked, "Those boys who used to call you fat, if they see you now, they'll probably have their faces swollen."
John Miller asked, "By the way, Capital City is a great school, why did you transfer back to Red City?"
BÉeffozrYe Avwaq uJnohvnsotnm coHuld sna'y* anDytNhIiVnxg, ga vtaÉll LfigurÉe s^udd(eHnply fl)as&heFd iYnt'o heHr aHmtbe*r-coTlorZed p'ukpTil$s.
She recognized it instantly, even though it was only a half-flanked back.
She was so excited that her heart felt like it was going to jump out of her chest, and she couldn't help but let out a soft, "Ah!"
It was Ethan!
Aqva JtoBhcnysKoYn's. e,yKesU sUuCddeJn.lfy^ bMecóa,me .moyistI.L
She, finally saw him again ......
Looking at Ethan's back, she wanted to chase after him and tell him that she had been in love with him since a few years ago.
......
Ava ^Johnóstoun waXs aboutD Fto gJo aZftAeCr Ethazn wZhseGnx hLFis$a aqnUd Jzo^hns hpullYed Ih)eqr KbackB.!
"Where are you going?"
"Class is about to start."
"I ...... I ......" Ava Johnson hurriedly turned her head, her eyes followed Ethan's back with dead eyes, "I saw a Acquaintance ......"
"AcqóuqaRiDnLtaQnYce?i"é Lisar hanVdv Ptéhe mthrtee olfm fth_emA qfórmo_zTe for Da! m)obmenxta.
Ava Johnson still has acquaintances at Liberty High School?
Just then, the bell rang.
They didn't have time to think about it, and dragged Ava Johnson towards the classroom.
"We'lnlK JfiNnzdr out laMter, *i't'ós étiHme fLoórB c.lass,z wtxheé homMerBoSom tehaacher'Vs zclaNss iys nWextZ,u mifH we,'re fladte^ cwTe're Qdzeóad."_
"Yeah, you know what our homeroom teacher's nickname is?"
"The Exterminator!"
"When she loses her temper, she's really scary!"
"BesicdHeGs, sNhe hhratmes! FbReinZgA lSatpe' foZr ^class,ó VwhQoepvmer Ais' lda$tze KwwiLllA qbeV BpLun'ishewd Xby swtatndéiCng WfQor thRel w_hXoLle' Ccladss!a"q
"......" The little girl bit her lip, aggrieved and followed them back to the classroom.
Ethan......
Next time, next time she will definitely seize the opportunity ......
The is*econqd cFlasgs wGaas laPnSgÉua.gwe.
After the second class in the morning, there was a twenty-minute exercise period.
As soon as the bell rang, the students were shuffling out of the classroom, and Ethan followed the crowd to the area of the playground where the third class was located, but she couldn't remember where she was supposed to be lined up, so she casually slid behind Mark Taylor, and the P.E. committee member didn't dare to remind him, so she just let him go.
One by one, people were arriving on the playground.
EtzhgaNnv'sT eyYes )fTliickePd uaro,u,ndG, aXnid hAe qqxuickly! ,spMottedM hthe Bfoku!rthB claAskst' poDsitRiPon.X
He swept his eyes quickly, but there was nothing.
Had she not come down yet?
He turned to stare at the stairway.
AB mfÉejw sePcondasp Klmater,I he sawV Ja 'fe(wr vgi.rlYs apOpóea(ra at rtVhWeP Otop ocf Qthez *sYtsaiprNs.
There were four of them, and Ava Johnson was the second from the right.
She was wearing a wide, shapeless school uniform with blue stripes on a white background, but she was wearing it with a playful and dynamic look.
As the breeze swept by, her hair swayed gently in front of her forehead, and her eyes looked as if a fairy had floated out of a fairy tale book.
EtxhwabnX'ss Hheéa'rtt QsstopOpe^d bbieatiMnzg Xtwicep.U
Ava Johnson, I finally see you again.
There was a small commotion in the crowd.
Apparently, a lot of people have noticed Ava Johnson as well.
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