Zhou Qingyu eventually went abroad for further studies without a hitch.
It was said that Pei Hanli invested in establishing a music school, which moved the renowned cellist. Coupled with Zhou Qingyu’s innate musical talent, the latter agreed to mentor her.
Yan Xi returned to her original life, balancing her academic pursuits with her work at Xingyao.
Time flew by swiftly. Han Shu’s album became a massive hit, earning him numerous music awards. Shen Xinghe ventured into acting, sweeping all three major film awards for Best Actor. SP rose to fame only to disband later, with Shen Yi going solo, while US boy band climbed to the top of the domestic music scene. Xingyao acquired Tianhui from the Pei Group, gradually ascending to become a top-tier entertainment agency...
Yan Xi successfully completed her master’s thesis, obtaining her degree and graduation certificates. Meanwhile, she repaid Zhou’s Father the ten million she owed him years ago, principal plus interest, using the earnings from her role as CEO.
Time passed in the blink of an eye—two years had gone by.
During these two years, Zhou Qingyu pursued advanced cello training and later performed multiple times with Chi Wei’s symphony orchestra. Now, it was time for her solo concert.
Perhaps because it was her first concert—a solo performance at that—even the usually composed young lady was nervous.
Backstage at the theater bustled with activity. Yan Xi held Zhou Qingyu’s hand and reassured her, "Don’t be nervous. Just imagine the audience are all pumpkins!"
Pei Hanli remarked dryly from the side, "That’s exactly how you comforted her last time."
Zhou Qingyu nodded. "Your pumpkin theory needs an upgrade!"
Yan Xi thought for a moment. "Fine, then imagine they’re all watermelons! If they don’t like your performance, it’s their lack of taste!"
Zhou Qingyu burst into laughter.
"Right! If they don’t appreciate my performance, it’s definitely not my fault—they just have no taste!"
The lighthearted banter eased her nerves. Taking a deep breath, Zhou Qingyu said, "You two should head to your seats now. I’m ready—it’s time to go onstage."
Yan Xi and Pei Hanli left backstage and made their way to the audience.
The theater lights had dimmed, leaving the seats shrouded in darkness. Even in the VIP section where Zhou Yanci and the others sat, it was hard to spot anyone.
Then, a faint glow from a phone screen pierced the darkness.
Zhou Yanci stood at the aisle entrance, waiting for Yan Xi.
She hurried over, and he steadied her. "Slow down. The show hasn’t started yet—no need to rush."
Yan Xi hummed in agreement and followed Zhou Yanci’s lead. Midway through the VIP section, Lu Beiyu waved enthusiastically at her.
Zhou’s Father, Lu's Father and Mother, Lu Wanning… everyone had come. Even in the dim theater light, their presence was unmistakable.
Then—click—the spotlight illuminated the stage.
Zhou Qingyu walked to the center, her cello in hand, graceful as a swan. As she took her seat, she became the focal point of the world.
She was still the radiant young lady Yan Xi had first seen on the stage of Bowen High School’s auditorium—dressed in a sleek black gown, glowing with an ethereal light.
Yan Xi stared, mesmerized.
It suddenly struck her that after two years, her friends, family, and the person she loved were all here.
Zhou Yanci squeezed her hand—his grip warm and firm.
"Let’s go," he said.
Yan Xi nodded. "Mm."
The cello’s melody filled the theater—a farewell to the past and an ode to the future. Everything in their story had become memories. Both Zhou Qingyu and Yan Xi had new people by their sides and brighter lives ahead.
Life was long, but thankfully, they were all still here.
[Main Story - End]
