At last, Xie Lianqing and Xu Qingqing sat together on a bench in the amusement park, both staring blankly at the slowly turning Ferris wheel across from them.
Xu Qingqing held her milk tea with both hands, sipping it little by little. “I’m starting to get a bit bored. Xie Lianqing, don’t you have anything fun planned for today?”
Xie Lianqing quietly turned his head, looking at her helplessly. “There were supposed to be plenty of great activities.”
But who would have guessed that his girlfriend insisted on coming to the amusement park halfway through, only to reveal she was afraid of heights and wouldn’t dare to go on any rides. So in the end, Xie Lianqing could only keep her company, sitting idly by the roadside.
After a moment, Xu Qingqing thought for a bit, took her small bag from Xie Lianqing’s hand, rummaged inside, and pulled out a letter — a love letter.
She waved it in front of Xie Lianqing and said, “Ta-da!”
Xie Lianqing raised an eyebrow, his gaze soft and tender. “Hmm? What’s this?”
Setting down her milk tea, Xu Qingqing stood up from the bench and faced him, holding the letter happily. “Hello, Senior Xie Lianqing, I’m your exclusive mail courier. This is a letter from your girlfriend!”
Luckily, the bench they were resting on was tucked away under a secluded wisteria tree, a very private spot with no one else around. Otherwise, Miss Xu’s antics might have drawn a crowd, or even ended up trending online.
Seeing the pink envelope in Xu Qingqing’s hands, Xie Lianqing’s mind suddenly lit up with warmth. “Is this my birthday gift?”
Xu Qingqing replied, “Actually, it’s a love letter. But Zhou Chenyu and the others said that doesn’t count.”
At that moment, Xie Lianqing’s feelings were hard to describe — a mix of complexity and surprise. He had assumed Xu Qingqing would casually give him some gift, especially since she could even forget his birthday.
He never expected her to write him a letter, and a love letter at that.
Just imagining Xu Qingqing sitting at her desk, furrowing her brows as she carefully penned the letter stroke by stroke, made Xie Lianqing want to smile. At the same time, he felt deeply touched.
It had been a long time since he’d received a love letter from her. His study still held the letters Xu Qingqing gave him back in middle school.
Though their romance began as a prank, Xie Lianqing still considered it a beautiful chapter — the start of their intertwined lives.
He had carefully treasured those letters from the very beginning. Maybe many years from now, when they were old, on some sunny day, he could pull out those letters and reminisce with her about the youthful days when they first met.
Looking at the love letter Xu Qingqing gave him, Xie Lianqing wanted to open it right away and read it, but also wanted to take it home, find the right place and moment to savor it alone.
Before he could decide, Xu Qingqing quickly tore open the pink envelope in just a few swift moves.
Xie Lianqing was dumbfounded: …Wasn’t this part supposed to be left for me?!
But seeing how much fun Xu Qingqing was having, he couldn’t stop her. He could only sigh helplessly.
Xu Qingqing didn’t pay any attention to his reaction. She busied herself with unfolding the letter, cleared her throat, and then said, “I’m going to read it to you!”
“Hello, Xie Lianqing. I’m your girlfriend, Xu Qingqing. First of all, congratulations on having such a perfect, outstanding, adorable, innocent, and kind Miss Xu Qingqing as your girlfriend at the age of 24…”
Sitting across from her, Xu Qingqing was dead serious as she praised herself, while Xie Lianqing, sitting in his chair, covered his mouth with one hand and finally couldn’t help but turn his head away, chuckling softly.
Xu Qingqing ignored him and continued to read with utmost sincerity: “If the you from many years ago had known that your deskmate would one day become your girlfriend, I’m sure you wouldn’t have refused to let her copy your foreign language homework!”
Xie Lianqing sat back, his eyes fixed on the girl in front of him.
He lounged lazily, his gaze gentle and lingering. As she spoke, it was as if he was seeing the distant past—the years he and Xu Qingqing had spent together.
Xu Qingqing said, “Of course, if you hadn’t refused her back then, you probably wouldn’t have ended up with all the things that happened afterward.”
If Xie Lianqing hadn’t refused to share his homework and said those words, she definitely wouldn’t have gotten angry and plotted revenge by trying to win him over just to break up with him later...
Turning the page of the letter, she went on, pouring out words with enthusiasm: “Later, you made a very wise decision! That was to come back and reconcile with Miss Xu Qingqing!”
“Ah, she really is such a charming girl, isn’t she? It’s no wonder you couldn’t let her go all these years, constantly thinking about her and eventually coming back…”
This part was pure fabrication by Xu Qingqing. She had no idea what Xie Lianqing’s life was like abroad, whether he had fallen for someone else, or if he had been involved with other girls.
But she didn’t know what else to write, so she just went on bragging about herself, implying that her charm was so irresistible that Xie Lianqing was hopelessly attached to her…
Xie Lianqing smiled faintly, though it was hard to tell if he was amused by Xu Qingqing or by himself.
That was just Xu Qingqing—carefree and lighthearted.
She never asked how much he loved her, never inquired about his romantic life while abroad. Even though she had a room prepared for her in every place he lived, she never thought to dig deeper into why…
Xu Qingqing thought she was just boasting, but only Xie Lianqing knew that every word was a reflection of his own inner struggles, day and night.
He looked at the lively, joyful girl before him, pressed his lips together slightly, and admitted helplessly, “Yes, Miss Xu Qingqing is adorable and beautiful, and I can’t forget her, no matter how hard I try.”
Hearing his words, Xu Qingqing held the letter in one hand and with the other gave him a thumbs-up, praising his perfect cooperation!
She winked at Xie Lianqing, her posture playful and cute. Xie Lianqing lowered his lashes, his eyes smiling warmly.
Xu Qingqing finally said, “Anyway, thank you so much for liking Miss Xu Qingqing! She really enjoyed the time spent with you, and hopes you’ll keep up the enthusiasm and continue to like her in the future.”
Xie Lianqing’s gaze softened. Without blinking, he stared at her intently. His eyes were full of affection as he took Xu Qingqing’s hand, his voice gentle as water, promising, “Alright, I’ll like her even more from now on.”
But Xu Qingqing pulled her hand away. “Wait a minute, is that it? I’m the delivery person here. I just worked hard—aren’t you going to pay me?”
Xie Lianqing chuckled, playing along obediently, and asked softly, “So, what should I do now? Leave you a tip?”
Xu Qingqing immediately stretched out her hand, grinning, “Thanks for your patronage, ten bucks.”
Xie Lianqing smiled and reached for his wallet, but Xu Qingqing stopped him right away. “I just put your wallet in my bag! Go look for it in there.”
He looked up at her, lips curling into a smile, guessing she was probably up to something again.
But even if he figured it out, he wouldn’t say a word. After all, if Miss Xu wasn’t having fun and he ruined her surprise, she might get mad.
So Xie Lianqing pretended not to know, reaching out to take Xu Qingqing’s bag. As soon as he opened it, he saw the car key.
Xu Qingqing bounced over, leaning in to say, “Look, birthday present! Surprise!”
Under Pagani’s banner, two popular sports cars stood out: the “Huayra” and the “Zonda R.” The former replaced the latter, which had been discontinued years ago and was now a rare collector’s item, nearly impossible to find.
Last holiday, Xu Qingqing had managed to snag a “Huayra” from Xie Lianqing, and now she was returning the favor with a “Zonda R.”
Holding the car key, Xie Lianqing felt an indescribable emotion welling up inside him. He already had one in his garage, but at this moment, nothing compared to Xu Qingqing.
He slowly withdrew his fingers and asked softly, “How did you come up with the idea to give me this car?”
Xu Qingqing had already settled back into her seat. She wasn’t just standing there for no reason. If anyone came by, it would be awkward if they saw her.
She took a big sip of milk tea, puffed out her cheeks, and mumbled, “Because I think you look really handsome when you’re in a race car!”
Actually, last time Zhou Chenyu told her that Xie Lianqing also raced abroad, so Xu Qingqing did some research and figured that anyone who loved racing would probably like this car.
That’s why she asked Le Jiaojiao and her aunt to help find someone, and after a few days of hard work, they managed to get this car just in time for Xie Lianqing’s birthday.
Xie Lianqing’s gaze was full of warmth as he said, “Did the owner agree to sell it?”
The Zonda R had long been discontinued, with fewer than a hundred in existence worldwide. Most collectors who owned one wouldn’t part with it for money, so no one knew how much effort Xu Qingqing had put into making this happen.
Thinking of this, Xie Lianqing’s heart softened even more. At this lively amusement park, surrounded by cheers, screams, spinning rides, and passing strangers, it was as if everything else existed in another world—his eyes could only see Xu Qingqing beside him.
Xu Qingqing had indeed haggled with the vendor for quite a while, but she would never admit that to Xie Lianqing, as it would ruin her image. After all, she was the eldest daughter of the Xu family, and a lady of her stature had to act cool, just like in TV dramas—simply giving orders to her subordinates and effortlessly getting what she wanted.
So, Xu Qingqing casually said, “Of course, I’m the one who paid for it.”
She had spent a lot of money!!
Xie Lianqing was momentarily stunned, then laughed and asked, “Why didn’t you use my card?” He had given her a supplementary card a long time ago, and she occasionally used it for shopping.
Xu Qingqing turned her head and looked at him with a hint of disdain. “If I used your card, wouldn’t you know?”
That would ruin the surprise of the birthday gift.
Xie Lianqing understood what she meant. He hugged Xu Qingqing and said softly, “Thank you for the gift. I really like it.”
He loved the love letter, the car, but most of all, he cherished all the thought and care Xu Qingqing had put into it.
According to Xie Lianqing’s plan, they were going to watch a movie and go sailing tonight. Since Xu Qingqing was afraid of heights and couldn’t enjoy most of the rides, they decided to just stroll around the amusement park and then have dinner at a restaurant.
Hand in hand, Xie Lianqing carried the bag for Miss Xu, while she led him on a leisurely walk, curiously stopping to check out anything interesting they came across.
“Hello, may I take a photo of you two?” Suddenly, a man wearing glasses and holding a camera approached them and asked politely.
Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing exchanged puzzled glances. The man pulled out his phone, showed them his Weibo account, and explained, “I’m a photographer, and this is my profile. I noticed the great vibe between you two, so I’d like to take a few photos for you—free of charge…”
Xiao Liu was a fairly well-known photographer with many fans online. The going rate for a photo session with him was close to five figures.
He had come out today with his girlfriend to have fun and take photos of her. But when he spotted Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing ahead, their sweet interaction caught his eye. As a bystander, Xiao Liu felt compelled to ask if he could take some shots of them.
Coincidentally, his girlfriend had just gone to the restroom, so he had the time to help out.
Worried they might refuse, he added, “You just need to pose like you did just now; it won’t be a hassle.”
Xie Lianqing hesitated for a moment, then glanced at Xu Qingqing. “Do you want to agree?”
They certainly didn’t lack photographers, but seeing Xu Qingqing’s eager and excited expression, it seemed she was quite tempted.
Sure enough, Xu Qingqing happily said, “Okay!”
She was very generous. After all, this guy must have admired both her and Xie Lianqing’s looks to want to take their photos!
Xiao Liu was truly professional—simple and straightforward.
Usually, couples feel a bit awkward when taking photos together. Facing the camera, they need time to adjust their poses and mindset. But Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing had no such problem; both were remarkably calm in front of the lens.
Xie Lianqing carried himself with a composed demeanor and an outstanding aura. Xu Qingqing was even more confident and poised. Neither needed Xiao Liu’s direction; their cooperation was naturally seamless and intimate.
After quickly finishing a few shots, Xiao Liu announced it was done. Xu Qingqing immediately released her embrace around Xie Lianqing’s waist and happily ran over to peek at the camera’s screen.
In the photos, both Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing looked exquisitely beautiful and refined. Xie Lianqing’s expression was calm and serene, but when his eyes met Xu Qingqing’s, they softened with a warm, smiling tenderness. Xu Qingqing’s delicate and pretty features were complemented by a natural youthful charm radiating from her every expression.
The atmosphere between them naturally carried a sweet, romantic glow.
Xiao Liu was indeed very skilled and had taken excellent shots. Xu Qingqing felt satisfied after viewing the photos, convinced that he hadn’t made her look bad. If he had, she would have definitely regretted it and asked him to delete the pictures.
Seeing her pleased, Xiao Liu relaxed. In truth, both Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing were blessed with exceptional looks and charisma, and their chemistry was so harmonious that even casual snapshots could pass as professionally retouched images, leaving little room for Xiao Liu’s skills to shine.
When Xie Lianqing approached, Xiao Liu immediately asked, “Can I post these on Weibo?”
In the past, Xiao Liu would often post free photos of strangers on his personal Weibo as sample works. But Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing’s aura made it clear they were no ordinary people.
Especially with the delicate, compact handbag Xie Lianqing was holding—Xiao Liu had seen the same model on his girlfriend’s phone before, rumored to cost tens of thousands. People like them probably wouldn’t care about free photo shoots.
When Xie Lianqing didn’t respond, Xiao Liu offered another option: “How about you add me as a contact? Or just message me on Weibo when the photos are ready, and I’ll send them to you privately.”
After all, this couple looked like they could easily debut as models or actors. Xiao Liu had only taken a couple of shots, which were already flawless enough to post without editing.
Still, Xiao Liu teased lightly, “But honestly, the photos turned out great. Such a perfect match—if you don’t share them, it’d be a shame for everyone else not to see such a lovely couple…”
He was being sincere—he genuinely thought it would be a pity not to show them off. It was their vibe together that had inspired him to approach them in the first place.
Before Xie Lianqing could reply, Xu Qingqing beat him to it: “No need. You already said we’re so good-looking, it’d be a waste not to share, right?”
Xiao Liu: …I never said that first part.
For the sake of the photos, he swallowed the remark silently, though his expression was a little hard to read. His glance toward Xu Qingqing seemed to say, “I didn’t expect you to be so shameless.”
Even carefree Xu Qingqing noticed the look on his face.
Xu Qingqing quickly shifted her thoughts and suddenly changed her tone, saying with a hint of confusion, "But you’re wrong, he and I aren’t a couple..."
Xiao Liu froze, his hand holding the camera stiffening, a bit nervous as he asked, "Then what’s your relationship?"
Seeing how startled he was, Xu Qingqing chuckled silently to herself but kept up the act, saying, "I’m his cousin. Today, my brother brought me out to hang out with him."
Learning from the last time she messed up in front of Gu Ling, this time Xu Qingqing directly positioned herself as his cousin.
Xiao Liu, being a straight guy, let out a small sigh of relief: "Oh, that’s how it is!"
As long as it wasn’t some weird relationship, that was a relief. If it was cousins, that was somewhat understandable. After all, from the start, this girl seemed quite delicate, so it wasn’t impossible for her to be doted on by her cousin...
While Xiao Liu breathed easier, he still felt the vibe between the two was a bit off.
Xie Lianqing hadn’t said much all along. Now, seeing that Xu Qingqing had played enough, he curled his lips slightly, tugged her hand, and asked, "Cousin Xu Qingqing, do you still want to play?"
He emphasized her full name, “Xu Qingqing.”
She replied, "Of course!"
Just then, someone slapped Xiao Liu on the back: "Alright, Xiao Liu! You’re secretly hanging out with a beautiful girl behind my back..."
Xiao Liu instantly knew his girlfriend had misunderstood. He nervously turned around, but before he could explain, his girlfriend’s words suddenly cut off.
She was staring at Xu Qingqing, shocked, exclaiming, "Y-you-you! You’re Miss Xu!!"
Xie Lianqing: ...What kind of title is that?
Xie Lianqing didn’t know yet, but because of several trending incidents, the identity and personality of “Miss Xu” had already deeply rooted in the fans’ minds.
Xu Qingqing, however, was quite calm. She knew many people online called her that. Apparently, everyone thought her personality was very childish, like a primary school kid, but if anyone called her a “little school chicken” on Weibo, they’d get blocked. So everyone switched to calling her “Miss Xu” instead.
...Basically, it meant the same thing.
Xiao Liu’s girlfriend hadn’t finished speaking. She looked at Xie Lianqing and immediately covered her mouth: "Oh my god! It’s you two! I knew it was real! Ahhh, I ship you guys so hard, help me!!"
At this moment, Xiao Liu finally caught on. No wonder the name Xu Qingqing sounded familiar to him—he remembered his girlfriend had been reposting someone’s Weibo recently, always saying how much she shipped them.
If that blogger wasn’t a girl and already taken, he might have been jealous.
Who knew it was this couple right in front of him?
Still hesitant, he said to his girlfriend, "Are you sure you’re not mistaken? He said his name is Xie Qingqing..."
After saying that, he realized he’d just been tricked by Xu Qingqing.
His girlfriend, however, was firm and pointed at Xu Qingqing: "It’s definitely you! No doubt about it!"
Xu Qingqing was pretty happy, feeling like she’d just met a true fan.
She hardly ever posted her photos on Weibo and had barely logged in recently, yet someone recognized her so quickly.
Xu Qingqing hadn’t even been happy for two seconds before she heard Xiao Liu’s girlfriend shout, “Who else but you would post every single photo of themselves from childhood to now on Weibo, just to prove to the haters that you were born beautiful?”
Xu Qingqing was baffled: …Was that supposed to be a compliment?
Standing beside her, Xie Lianqing noticed her girlfriend’s dazed confusion and quietly turned his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
Xiao Liu’s girlfriend didn’t yet know the complicated thoughts swirling in Xu Qingqing’s mind. She pulled out her phone and asked, “You blocked me last time. Now that we’ve finally run into each other, can you take me off your blacklist?”
Although she had been blocked, she had followed Xu Qingqing with another small account. But now that fate had brought them face to face, she naturally wanted to plead for her main account to be unblocked.
Xu Qingqing was still pondering whether the earlier comment was a compliment or an insult when this question snapped her back to reality. “Why would I block you?”
Her eyes widened as she asked warily, “You wouldn’t be a fan of Bai Youlan, would you?!”
Xiao Liu’s girlfriend was stunned too. “No way! She’s so fake. Don’t you know how much we fans hate her?”
Xu Qingqing immediately clasped her hands warmly. “Sisters!”
No matter who it was, as long as they hated Bai Youlan, they were her half-sisters in spirit!
Since they were sisters now, Xu Qingqing didn’t hesitate to pull out her phone and remove the block. While doing so, she casually asked, “Why did I block you in the first place?”
Xiao Liu’s girlfriend replied, “Maybe because I said on Weibo, ‘You’re the number one at blocking people when you lose an argument, acting like a little kid.’ And then you blocked me as soon as I looked back.”
Xu Qingqing suddenly remembered. Shocked, she exclaimed, “Wow, it was you! Tell me, how am I like a little kid?!”
Others: …Well, you do seem a little like one.
In the end, Xu Qingqing did unblock Xiao Liu’s girlfriend. She put down her phone and couldn’t help but warn, “Don’t say things like that about me anymore, okay?”
After saying goodbye to Xiao Liu and his girlfriend, Xu Qingqing and Xie Lianqing left the amusement park.
When Xie Lianqing got home, he carefully went to his study and placed the letter Xu Qingqing had given him today into the box where he kept all the love letters she had sent him over the years.
The warm light in the study made him sit down, taking out those letters to reminisce.
Over the years, the style and handwriting of Xu Qingqing’s letters had changed quite a bit. Her earlier letters were full of spring flowers and autumn moons, ethereal and boundless, exquisitely romantic. But now, her letters were much simpler—no parallelism, no metaphors, and none of the poetry she used to compose…
“The letters used to be pretty good. Now they’ve actually gone backwards,” Xie Lianqing said with a smile.
Then, his smile slowly faded away.
