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Chapter Text

Xiao Lanhua walks through the main hallway of Shuiyuntian Academy. It is an impressive space with a tall, arched ceiling and large paintings on the wall in antique gold frames, the lamps hanging from the ceiling bathing everything in a warm light. The floors sparkle, freshly scrubbed, and her loafers make a tapping sound as she continues, the click-clack echoing against stone walls. 

“Here we have the Main Hall,” she says, sweeping her arms before turning to the group following her.

Typically the hallway would be filled with students, but with another twenty minutes until change of classes, the room was quiet except for the whispers among the handful of new freshmen. Continuing to walk, she gestures towards the doorway and to a grassy courtyard that sits in the center of the three large buildings. “From here the Main Hall connects to the library, cafeteria, and history departments,” she continues.

A trophy case filled with polished awards stands against one wall, and Lanhua stops again to beam proudly in front. “You can see that Shuiyuntian boasts many winning seasons for its teams.”

Another murmur goes up among the students before one asks, “Who’s that?”

Lanhua glances over at the portrait hanging next to the case. The subject is imposing, staring down as if waiting to catch students slacking off in their studies. “This is Professor Changhua, founder of our school. More than two hundred years ago he had the vision of creating a place where young people would learn about the world and cultivate their—”

The practiced speech is cut off when another hand is raised. ”I thought he founded Moon Prep?“

Lanhua shakes her head. ”Professor Chonghua and his wife ran the academy together for many years, until she departed to found her own school, which is now Moon Prep.“ She gestures back towards the main entrance. ”It's located in Cangyan Sea, and we are sister schools.“

”More like rivals,“ another comments.

She clears her throat, hoping to change the topic. ”Let's head to the guidance department. Then you'll be able to see your schedules for when you start on Monday.“

The group chats excitedly as she leads them to the series of offices used by the guidance counselors, and once the new students are in safe hands Lanhua hurries to make her next class. After a quick stop at her locker to grab her books, she hurries among students changing classes, dodging the conversations and roughhousing in the hallway and squeezing between laughing groups of boys and girls moving towards their rooms. She reaches her class with just a few minutes to spare, dropping into her seat with a thankful sigh.

Taoshu turns around and sets her chin in her hands. “Where were you this morning?”

“I had a tour to give,” Lanhua replies, opening her binder to a fresh sheet of paper. “The school decided to take some new students.”

“Scholarship?”

Lanhua shakes her head. “No, regular students.”

Her friend nods thoughtfully. “You should try to get moved to the library with me. Just because we have to do work study doesn't mean you should have to miss class like this.”

Lanhua shrugs. “I don't mind. I like giving tours. And I get to meet new people.” 

“Hey Xiao Lanhua!”

She looks over where two other students—regular ones who pay tuition, not scholarship students like herself and Taoshu—are grinning at her slyly. Everyone knows who pays the hefty tuition bill—and who is on “scholarship”, and has to pay their way by working at the school. Lanhua clears her throat and gives a weak smile. It's not often that the kids who can afford tuition talk to people like her. “Yes?”

“Did you say there were new students?”

Lanhua nods. “Four new ones. But they are first years.”

The girl pouts. “Damn. I was hoping for some new faces. But maybe we'll see them at the Homecoming party.”

Taoshu has already turned around to find her notebook suddenly interesting, so Lanhua ducks her head to silently exit the conversation. But then the girl calls over, “Are you going, Xiao Lanhua?”

She glances up in surprise. “Going? To Homecoming?”

A round of laughter makes her blush. “Of course. What else would I be talking about?”

“Um...” Homecoming is a huge event, the first one to kick off the fall semester at Shuiyuntian. There would be a huge party right on the school grounds, one that was rumored to get pretty crazy as the adults turned a blind eye to whatever the students got up to. Lanhua had not gone to the one last year when she was a first year, since scholarship students don’t usually attend. “I don't think so?”

“Oh you should!” Another girl leans over on her desk. “It's always a fun time.”

“Why would she go?”

Lanhua blushes as Danyin approaches her desk with a frown and her arms crossed. As one of the top students in their grade, Danyin often reminded those that had to work at Shuiyuntian of their place beneath those that pay tuition. Lanhua had always found her the most intimidating of all, and she wishes she could shrink into something very small as Danyin scowls. “Well?” she demands. “You think you can go?”

“Oh come on, Danyin,” one of the girls laughs. “Don’t be mean. Why can’t Xiao Lanhua go?”

“It’s for everyone,” the other says slyly.

Technically, yes, although Lanhua knows they are teasing. She looks down at her lap and replies meekly, “I think I have something that day.”

“Have to take care of your little plants?” Lanhua blushes as Danyin smirks. The girl turns to walk away but as she tosses her hair she knocks her hip against Lanhua’s desk, sending her books and pencils scattering along the floor.

“Now look at the mess you’ve made,” Danyin scolds.

Lanhua mumbles a half-hearted protest but crouches on the floor, scrounging around to pick up her things. The girls laugh as Danyin gives a smug smile. But then one calls, “Changheng! Over here!”

Lanhua glances up from the floor and can’t help but smile as Changheng approaches. Tall, broad, and handsome, Changheng is not only the class president but also the most popular boy in school. Her heart flutters a bit as he looks at her curiously, and she tries to screw up the courage to say hello.

Before she can, one of the girls says, “Changheng, tell Danyin that anyone is allowed to go to Homecoming.”

He nods as he looks around. “Of course everyone is invited. Who did you say can’t come?”

Danyin huffs as she tosses her hair over her shoulder. “I was just saying that Lanhua might not feel comfortable. Since she’s a scholarship student and all.”

“That shouldn’t make any difference.” He turns and looks at Xiao Lanhua with a tilt to his head. “Are you planning to go?”

Lanhua’s mind goes into overdrive at actually getting addressed directly by Changheng. Her throat goes dry as she stammers out, “I… I hadn’t…”

Danyin shoots her a sour look before stomping to her seat. But Lanhua barely notices, watching instead as Changheng turns to make his way to his own. He sits three rows and two seats over from Lanhua, the perfect spot for her to stare at the back of his head while looking like she’s paying attention. But actually talking to him—and being invited personally to Homecoming!!—is nearly too much to comprehend.

“Lanhua,” Taoshu hisses, quickly turning around. “You’re not really going to go, are you?”

Changheng starts to talk to another student, flashing a grin that makes her heart skip. “No,” she says emphatically as she slides down into her seat. “Danyin is right. There’s no place for me there.”

Lanhua tries to pay attention in class but her focus continues to turn towards Changheng. Specifically, his hair falling in waves over the collar of his uniform jacket. She sighs to herself, wondering what it would be like to slide her fingers through his hair. The idea makes her blush and she ducks behind a textbook to hide her glowing cheeks.

She manages to get through History and then it’s Lanhua’s favorite class, Horticulture. She is pleased to note her project to cultivate a rare slipper orchid, found in only a few regions in the world, is developing nicely: the petals just beginning to emerge, the curling of the soft yellow already looking like a lady’s slipper. Lanhua spends the class carefully pruning and watering the flower before meticulously recording its growth in her notebook.

It is the final class of the day, but Lanhua stops at the office before heading home. She smiles at Ms. Sansheng who stands behind a massive oak desk. “Any jobs for this afternoon?”

“Not today,” the dean replies. “Go on home early.”

Lanhua nods excitedly before heading to her locker. Typically she has duties after school for her work requirements, whether it is tutoring or clerical work in the office or even the occasional bit of laundry for the athletic teams. It’s rare to be able to head straight home, and she thinks of her school work that needs her attention as well as her poor neglected flowers that are sprinkled around Arbiter Hall. 

She pulls up short when she sees Changheng hanging around her locker. “Hi,” she murmurs shyly, tucking back her hair as she slides around him to pull open the little door.

“Xiao Lanhua,” he replies with a smile. “I need to ask you something.”

Her heart picks up its rhythm as she presses her lips together. What could Changheng possibly want from her? “Yes?”

“Are you going to the Homecoming party?”

Lanhua’s chest squeezes uncomfortably as her eyes go wide. This is it! Changheng has finally noticed her, and he’s asking her to go with him to one of the biggest events of the year? Her breath stutters as she nods, imagining Danyin’s face when she shows up to Homecoming, arm and arm with—

“Because you should go, if you want. Don’t listen to those others. Homecoming is for everyone, even scholarship kids like you.”

Her shoulders deflate as realization sets in, the sting from being called a scholarship kid making her face heat. “Uh… yeah. Yeah.”

“So you’ll go?”

Lanhua nods numbly and Changheng flashes another grin. “Great! See you there.” He pats her on the shoulder before heading out, and Lanhua stares blankly at his back as he walks away.

Xiao Lanhua yawns the next morning as she slides into her seat for her first class. It’s Mathematics, her least favorite, and she grumbles to herself as she opens her book to start taking notes. 

A tap on her shoulder catches her attention, and Lanhua turns to see Duoruo leaning forward over his desk. “Xiao Lanhua! Did you hear the news?” 

She shakes her head and he eagerly continues, “We’re getting some transfer students!”

Lanhua shrugs. “We’ve had them before.”

“Not from Moon Prep.”

He gives a smug look as the secret lands heavily between them. “Moon Prep?” Lanhua asks. “Are you sure?”

“It’s all over the school. Some kind of exchange to build relations or something. A bunch of our students are going there, and they are sending some here—”

“Who?” she asks quickly, picturing Changheng. If Shuiyuntian wanted to send their best students to their rival school, then it only makes sense he would be chosen. “Who is going?”

Duoruo shrugs. “Some third years, I think. But Lanhua! Students from Moon Prep, here? They’ll only cause trouble for everyone.”

Lanhua nods weakly as she turns back in her seat. If it’s only third years going, then Changheng is safe. She clears her throat, trying to convince herself that she doesn’t care anyway. Changheng made it very clear how he feels about her yesterday.

“Do you think Dongfang Qingcang will be one of them?”

Lanhua blinks at Duoruo as he looks at her expectantly. “Who?”

“Dongfang Qingcang. Don’t you know anything? His father owns almost all of Cangyan Sea. And his son has a reputation.”

“I don’t know,” she offers weakly, wondering what that means.

By lunchtime the entire school is abuzz with the news. There have not been students from Cangyan Sea attending Shuiyuntian Academy in decades, and everyone speculates on what the new students will be like. Even Lanhua is drawn into the gossip, some of the others asking her if she has any inside information working for Ms. Sansheng. Lanhua simply shakes her head and dips away, quickly escaping that conversation.

The prospect of having Dongfang Qingcang arrive at Shuiyuntian is the hottest topic of all. Throughout the day, Lanhua learns more about the mysterious Dongfang than she ever thought possible: he’s rich, aloof, and a troublemaker. Rumor has it he is nothing but a snob and a bully, with a group of friends who carry out his orders like he’s some kind of king. He tortures the teachers there when he bothers to show up to class, and nobody says anything to him because of how influential his father is. 

If he does come to the school, Lanhua plans to stay far away from him.

Besides, the news has nothing to do with her. Whatever students are sent will surely be full tuition students, their parents among the elite and powerful. Meanwhile, Lanhua has a real problem on her hands: what to do about Homecoming.

The school had been nearly turned upside down between the news of the student exchange and the excitement for Homecoming. Lanhua almost decided not to go at all, but she could not get over the fact that Changheng had stopped her to ask if she was planning to go. It was truly the most wonderful moment of her life, but since then had been panicking over what to do. Now she had to go; she had nearly promised Changheng. 

Not for the first time, Lanhua wishes that Siming was home. She had left in a whirlwind, talking a mile a minute about seeing the world and being off to—well, do what she didn’t exactly know, and before Lanhua could even blink her foster mother was gone. Arbiter Hall is not only her home, but also a second-hand bookstore. Yet Siming left months ago, putting Lanhua in charge of maintaining the bit of business that comes through herself. It takes up most of her free time, which Lanhua doesn’t really mind. She doesn’t have many friends to make much of a social life anyway.

The day of the party arrives in a whirlwind of excitement for everyone except Lanhua. Begrudgingly she heads home to get ready and finally settles on a flowing dress of pale yellow that fits her the best. She doesn’t have any jewelry or anything to make herself stand out, so she focuses on getting her hair right and dons just a bit of makeup before making her way back to campus.

She takes her time so by the time she arrives, the party is in full swing. The theme is the Water Pavilion, so the party is on the school’s pool deck, the grassy areas on the side cleared out for dancing. A band plays a lively number as students mingle and make their way to the dance floor, some hovering around the tables of refreshments and calls to one another and laughter heard above all. Lanhua freezes up a bit as she enters, feeling extremely alone and very out of place.

Quickly she grabs herself a cup of punch to hide her embarrassment before making her way around the party. She pretends to be looking for a friend, but in reality she is searching for Changheng; Lanhua decides to say hello to him so he knows she came and then make a quick escape.

There are whispers that follow her as she walks around. “Is that a scholarship student?” she hears more than once, but Lanhua tries to keep her head up. After all, she’s there at Changheng’s invitation. But where is he?

Eventually she spots him. He sees her at the same time, and to her surprise he leaves his friend group to come over to her. “You made it!” he says, almost sounding happy. 

“Yeah.” Lanhua clears her throat, trying to think of what to say. “This is a great party, huh?”

“It is now.” Not sure what that means, she nods and takes a sip of her punch. Changheng suddenly looks nervous, but as she gazes up at him two other students come over and tug on his arm.

“Changheng,” one murmurs. “They’re here.”

“Who’s here?” Lanhua asks, forgetting herself.

They ignore her as Changheng makes a face. “I suppose it can’t be helped. Let’s keep an eye on them.” The other two nod but before he goes Changheng places a hand on her arm. “I need to go deal with something. Will you be okay on your own for a bit until I get back?”

“Get back?” Lanhua brightens. 

He gives her a quick smile before disappearing into the crowd. Excitedly, Lanhua bites her lip, thinking about the possibilities. Changheng wants to see her again. Is it possible he actually likes her?

Happily she sets down her drink and waits, wondering what they’ll talk about next. There are still a few students glancing her way, but before she realizes it everyone is moving in the same direction. Curious, she follows the crowd, sliding between students straining to see a commotion up ahead.

Lanhua gasps when she comes through the tightly packed bodies. Changheng and a few other students are having some kind of confrontation with a group she does not recognize. She frowns, wondering who they are. She knows practically everyone at Shuiyuntian Academy.

“Get off of me!”

One of them pushes Changheng, and without thinking Lanhua hurries forward. She steps in between them but is promptly knocked off of her feet. She stumbles and reaches out, grabbing onto leather fabric as she starts to fall. Twisting to keep from falling face first, she realizes that she is directly next to the pool—and the huge splash that happens a moment later confirms her worst fear. But I can’t swim, she thinks for a moment before sinking beneath the water’s surface.

Chapter Text

The water is colder than Lanhua expected. But there is no time to think of that as panic causes her to swallow a mouthful of water. She chokes and starts to flail around, bubbles blurring her vision. Continuing to fall, Lanhua tries to get her limbs to move the right way, but she ends up drinking more water as her head spins.

A hand grips her. It leads her through the water, and Lanhua chokes on a breath before a moment later a pair of lips presses against hers.

Lanhua’s eyes open. Someone is leaning over her—Changheng?—and kissing her. For a second her eyes flutter closed but then she realizes she’s not being kissed; instead, someone is breathing against her mouth. She coughs suddenly, pushing him away, and whoever it is begins to swim to the surface, pulling her along.

Hands grab onto her arms and heave her out of the water. Now on solid ground, she weakly pushes up on her elbows to get her bearings.

The boy kneeling next to her is definitely not Changheng. He is soaking wet, just like her, a deep scowl on his youthful but handsome face. He is wearing a leather jacket and dark pants that drip with water, his too-long dark hair plastered against his cheeks. “Who are you?” she splutters.

Someone hauls Lanhua to her feet, but her eyes stay on the strange boy. Slowly he stands, his gaze practically boring holes into her. Instinctively she presses against the warm presence next to her, and Changheng’s rich voice snaps her out of her daze. “Xiao Lanhua!” he cries. “Are you okay? Are you hurt?”

“I…” She presses her fingers to her lips. She had never been kissed before, and having her first after nearly drowning in front of the school by a stranger glaring at her with anger was not how she had exactly pictured it. 

“Xiao Lanhua…”

Lanhua glances at Chengheng, who is looking downwards. She follows his eyes to see her dress is ruined, clinging to her body and now practically see-through. The crowd that is now gathered around them is laughing and pointing, and Lanhua grabs the front of her dress. “I need to go!” she practically squeaks, turning on a heel and hurrying to the girls’ changing room.

Murmurs and more laughter follow her as she pushes through the crowd. The locker room next to the pool is thankfully silent, and she takes a moment to lean against the door and breathe a sigh of relief once inside. Tears threaten but she is determined not to cry. A moment later she shivers, so Lanhua heads to her locker to find a change of clothes inside.

Only her locker won’t open, and she realizes why a minute later when male voices catch her attention: she is in the boys’ room.

Swallowing a shriek, she hides behind the row of lockers just as the boy in the leather jacket enters, followed by another stranger. “Are you sure you’re okay?” he asks. “Do you want me to—”

“I’m fine, Shangque,” leather jacket snaps. “Just go make sure no one else comes in while I dry off.”

Shangque obediently disappears through the door, and Lanhua peeks around to see him pulling off his jacket with a disgusted face. Then comes his shirt, revealing a well-defined and slim build, his muscles flexing slightly as he pulls the fabric over his head. Her eyes go wide as she takes in his bare torso that leads to a trim waist, his wet pants hanging low on his hips. When his hands go to his belt she quickly calls out, “Wait! Stop!”

The boy jumps and looks towards her with wide eyes. “What are you doing here?” he demands.

“I thought this was the girls’ room—I’m sorry, I’ll just go—”

Lanhua tries to quickly scoot around him, but he grabs her by the arm and pushes her up against the locker. His other hand presses above her head, and Lanhua shrinks back a bit as he leans in to study her. Outside, the muted sounds of the music and voices seem far away as they stare at one another. “What is your name?” he finally demands.

“I…” Lanhua frowns. “I’m not telling you.”

“I saved your life.”

She presses her hands on his chest, pushing gently, but he does not budge. “Can I please leave?”

He huffs in amusement, leaning closer. “You need to take responsibility for this.”

“Responsibility?” she repeats in surprise. “For what?”

“Knocking me into the pool,” he says through gritted teeth. “Then making me save you. Why can’t you even swim?”

“I—”

“It’s pathetic. Students at Shuiyuntian can’t do anything right. Can’t you even walk straight without plowing into someone?”

Lanhua frowns. “It’s not my fault,” she insists. “You were going to fight Changheng—”

“Changheng?” he snickers, looking her over. “Is that your boyfriend or something?”

“No!”

“But you were rushing in to save that pompous idiot?”

The insult makes her face burn. Lanhua looks down at the ruined dress and remembers Changheng’s reaction to seeing her soaking wet. Feeling tears fill the back of her throat, Lanhua replies, “You don’t have to be so mean! You’re the one who knocked into me. I was just—”

“Were you hoping your little stunt would get my attention?” He lifts his chin and gives a smirk. “Who do you think you can impress?”

Lanhua makes a face. “I wasn’t trying anything.” She pushes at him again, but his body is like solid rock. “You must think you’re such a big deal, just because you’re stronger than me. I bet you crashed this party! You don’t even go to Shuiyuntian!”

He rolls his eyes. “Like I would even want to go here.”

“I knew it! You probably couldn’t even get in.” Lanhua draws herself up as he frowns down at her. “Well you might think you’re hot stuff, but at least I go to Shuiyuntian, which is more than I can say for you. You probably dropped out of school or something. Even though I’m just a scholarship student, at least I go here!”

With a shove she manages to move him out of the way, and Lanhua storms around him and towards the door. But before she can leave, Ms. Sansheng enters, the other boy hot on her heels. “What is going on?” she demands, looking between the two.

Lanhua feels her cheeks heat as she quickly crosses her arms. “Ms. Sansheng!”

“What are you two doing in here?” She looks back and forth between them. “In the boys’ locker room of all places?”

Lanhua swallows thickly. “It was an accident. I fell into the pool—”

“So you were part of that fight? I’m surprised at you.” Ms. Sansheng purses her lips before turning her gaze to the boy. “And you. I should have known. You are to leave these premises immediately.”

“Sure thing,” he says casually, picking up his coat. He slings it over his shoulder but makes sure to bump into Lanhua as he walks by. “After all, I’m not a student here.”

They watch him leave before Ms. Sansheng’s eyes return to fall on Lanhua. The girl dips her head in embarrassment as she says, “I’m very sorry.”

“I’m sure you are. Now go straight home. The party has been canceled because of this ruckus. Almost everyone else is already gone.”

Lanhua nods before making a quick escape. The grounds are practically empty now, a few groups of stragglers barely giving her a glance as she hurries across campus. She wonders where Changheng is, and if he is in trouble too. She’ll need to find a way to talk to him before class and apologize for making a scene. Surely everyone at school saw, but maybe they’ll forget all about her over the weekend.

Things on Monday turn out worse than expected.

Xiao Lanhua, used to being ignored by everyone at school, decides she prefers that over the whispers that follow her around when she arrives on campus. Students turn to look at her, most with unhappy faces, before turning back to their friends to make hushed comments. A few don’t bother to keep their voices low, and phrases like “scholarship kid” and “ruined Homecoming” make her move quickly to her locker and try to escape to her first class.

The students in her Mathematics class scowl at her when she enters, and Lanhua slinks into her seat, slumping low behind her books. She wishes the floor would just open up for her, and prays to get through the day as unnoticed as possible. But when the professor enters, the first thing he says is, “Xiao Lanhua? Are you present?”

All eyes turn immediately to her. Lanhua straightens stiffly and replies, “Yes?”

“Take your things and go to the office. Ms. Sansheng wants to see you first thing.”

Snickers and more murmurs make her wince as she hurries to gather her books and scurry from the room. The hallways are thankfully mostly empty with only a few late students running to their classes, so she ducks her head and walks quickly to the office, not wanting to be recognized.

Ms. Sansheng is waiting for her, but instead of the lecture Lanhua had expected she says, “There is a tour I need you to give.”

“A tour?” 

Ms. Sansheng nods. “We have a few new students starting today. I’m sure you’ve heard the rumors about the student exchange with Moon Prep?”

Lanhua’s eyes go wide. “You want me to give a tour to students from Moon Prep?”

“They are now Shuiyuntian students and should be treated as such. They are waiting for you in the Main Hall.”

Lanhua nods and sets her books down, but before she can leave Ms. Sansheng continues, “I want you to know I’m very disappointed in your behavior at Homecoming.”

How can she begin to explain? Changheng, the argument, the pool, heading into the wrong room… it’s impossible. Lanhua simply nods and hangs her head.

“You’ll have detention after school today. Report there after your last class. Now hurry and go do your tour, the students are there already.”

Numbly Lanhua turns and heads towards the Main Hall, her stomach sinking with every step. She has never had detention before, never even been in trouble, and now she’s being blamed for ruining the entire Homecoming—all because of that boy! 

Thinking about what she would do if she ever saw him again lifts her spirits by the time she reaches the Main Hall. There are three students waiting, and Lanhua frowns as she recognizes one. He is tall with a pleasant face and crooked smile, handsome with broad shoulders. Where has she seen him before?

The second boy is shorter than the other two, his face younger despite the deep scowl. His expression is pure boredom, and Lanhua is immediately offended. How can anyone be that unimpressed with Shuiyuntian?

The third has his back to her, talking to the other two. The younger one nods in her direction and he turns around. Lanhua stops short, her mouth falling wide open as she sees who it is. He gives her a smirk, a derisive laugh escaping his lips as they curl into a devious smile.

“You!” she exclaims. “What are you doing here?”

It’s definitely the boy from Homecoming, leather jacket and all. But he is wearing the rest of the Shuiyuntian uniform, as are the other two boys, and Lanhua groans as she realizes what this means. “You’re the new students,” she sighs.

“Well if it isn’t the girl who can’t stay out of the boys’ room,” he jokes.

Lanhua narrows her eyes. “That was an accident. And I have detention now because of you!”

“Your own fault,” he chuckles. “So what do you want?”

She chafes at his response, putting her hands on her hips. “I’m here to give you a tour.”

“Let’s get this over with.”

He heads down the hallway, followed by the other two, and Lanhua stares after them for a moment before calling, “Hey, wait!”

The tour is an utter disaster. Lanhua can’t remember the last time she was so annoyed by a group of students. The first years are always a bit in awe, while the older students are typically respectful.

Respectful is the last way she would describe the new students. The tallest one isn’t too bad, and he had even asked a couple of questions that showed he was actually paying attention. Lanhua learns his name is Shangque, and she feels bad that he is stuck with the other two. He could even be nice if he got away from them for a few minutes.

The youngest one is a first year, but doesn’t speak much. He does plenty of scowling, and when the other two make comments he just rolls his eyes. Lanhua decides to ignore him. At least he isn’t actively causing problems.

Which can’t be said for her so-called rescuer. He has plenty to say, ranging from sneering at the awards in the case to complaining about the paint color on the walls. He scoffs at the upgrades she describes in the science labs and actually laughs when she mentions the school’s well-regarded math department. Lanhua grows more aggravated by the minute with every snip and comment, until finally she cuts the tour short.

“What is your problem?” she asks, spinning on her heel to face him. “If you hate Shuiyuntian so much, maybe you should go back to where you came from.”

“I’d like nothing more,” he snaps at her. “Unfortunately, I’m stuck here with you.”

“Not with me,” she corrects. “After this tour, I doubt we’ll see each other again.”

As if on cue, the bell rings, and classrooms begin to empty as students make their way towards their next classes. There are stares and whispers as the hallway fills, and Lanhua clears her throat, glad for the reprieve. “What’s your second class? I’ll tell you where to go.”

He hands her his schedule and Lanhua’s heart sinks. It’s History, the same as hers. “Follow me,” she mumbles, not bothering to wait as he says goodbye to his companions.

She is very aware of his presence behind her as they make their way to the classroom. Lanhua holds her head high, ignoring the looks they are getting. The new students from Moon Prep are sure to be a curiosity, and she can only imagine the disparaging looks he’s giving everyone behind her. 

They arrive at the classroom, and inside the door she stops him. “This is it. Sit over there,” she says, pointing to the opposite side as her desk.

He narrows his eyes at her. “Where do you sit?”

Lanhua huffs in annoyance. “None of your business.”

“What if I want to sit with you?”

His smile is teasing, but that just grates on her nerves. “You’re not allowed,” she says before turning to her seat.

She realizes everyone in the room is watching as she makes her way through. Lanhua winces as she thinks of the trouble he had caused at Homecoming, and when she spots Changheng, gives a weak smile as he frowns. The students murmur to one another, and she wonders briefly if someone is going to say something to him. Behind her, she hears him chuckle, and the room goes practically silent, the air tense.

Taoshu is practically red when she gets to her chair. “Are you kidding me?” she hisses as soon as Lanhua sits.

“What?”

The new student is staring at her, and Lanhua turns pointedly away to look at Taoshu. “That’s him, isn’t it?”

Lanhua frowns. “What, the new student? Yeah, that’s him. He’s very annoying.”

Taoshu laughs. “No, I mean—”

They are interrupted as the professor enters, and he nods to the class before his eyes fall on the new student. “Yes, I was told a new transfer would be starting today,” Professor Liyuan says. “Dongfang Qingcang.”

The name makes Lanhua jump, and she stares at him with wide eyes as the students quietly head to their seats. Her rescuer, the one who got her in detention and gave her a problem all morning, is the rich and notorious Dongfang Qingcang? No wonder he’s been so obnoxious! A weasel like him would definitely have nothing good to say about Shuiyuntian, and of course he would be the one to cause trouble at their Homecoming. 

Not that Dongfang shows even the slightest bit of shame. He saunters to an open seat, which of course is directly next to Lanhua. She slides down in her own, trying to disappear. Of course everyone had seen their exchange at the door, and her cheeks flare when Changheng turns to shoot her a glance. 

Class continues as normal, although the room is unusually silent other than the typical shifting of papers and whispered conversations. Lanhua stares straight ahead, not wanting to even get a glimpse of Dongfang Qingcang. As the professor begins the lecture, she takes out a pen and opens her book, her hand shaking slightly as she starts to take notes.

“Hey, you have a pen I can borrow?”

Even his voice grates on her nerves. Lanhua grits her teeth and holds out a hand to her side, refusing to look at him. She feels Dongfang’s fingers brush hers as he takes the pen, then sits up straighter to focus on the lecture.

The teacher drones on about settlements until once again, Dongfang Qingcang interrupts. “Hey,” he murmurs towards her.

Lanhua presses her lips together tightly as she slowly turns her head. “What?” she hisses.

“Are all your teachers this terrible?”

Her brows raise. “He’s one of the best professors in the school.”

“He sucks.”

“Excuse me.” Lanhua bolts upright as the teacher frowns down at them both. “I don’t accept talking in my class.”

Dongfang Qingcan gives a shrug. “Why not? Everything you’re teaching is wrong.”

The professor frowns. “What?”

“You’re wrong.” Dongfang leans forward, hands in his jacket pockets. Lanhua notices her pen is sitting on his desk, his books unopened. What did he want it for if he wasn’t going to take notes?

“What?”

The teacher is turning several shades of pink as the rest of the class swivels to look at Dongfang. “You said that Cangyan Sea started as a criminal colony. That’s bullshit. It was founded as a settlement to get away from the tyrannical government.”

The professor looks as though he is having trouble processing this, which to be fair, is probably the first time he’s ever been questioned on his material. “You are mistaken, young man. And don’t use profanity in my classroom.”

“Then I guess there’s no reason for me to be here.” 

Dongfang stands up and picks up his things. Without thinking, Lanhua reaches out and grabs the edge of his leather jacket. “What are you doing?” she hisses. “Sit down before you get in trouble!”

He glances at her and gives a wink. “No need to worry about me.” Dongfang heads for the door, ignoring the professor’s threats of detention if he doesn’t sit down, and as he leaves Lanhua realizes he took her pen with him.

Chapter Text

The rest of the day Lanhua manages to avoid Dongfang Qingcang, although his friend Shangque turns up in her Horticulture class. At lunch there is plenty of talk about the new students, and when the Moon Prep group enters the cafeteria, the looks and conversation go into overdrive. Half of the student body seems to be in awe of Dongfang Qingcang, his wealth and reputation preceding him. The other half is far from happy that he is at their school, Changheng among them. 

There’s even a petition that gets passed around to have Dongfang Qingcang expelled, which surprises Lanhua. Besides being a complete jerk, he hadn’t done anything worse than talk back to a teacher. By the end of the day Lanhua is tired of hearing the name Dongfang Qingcang and is ready to never see or speak to him again if she can help it.

Lanhua prays no one sees her as she scurries inside the detention room. She breathes a sigh of relief to see there are only a handful of students there, none of whom she knows particularly well. No one bothers to notice her as she slides into a seat at the front. She glances at the clock, knowing this will be the longest hour of her academic life.

The proctor barely acknowledges her as she sits. “No talking,” he barks, going back to his newspaper.

Three minutes tick by slowly. Lanhua presses her chin into her hand when the door opens, and to her dismay Dongfang Qingcang enters. The younger boy that had been on the tour earlier follows, and while he takes a seat in the back, Dongfang chooses the one next to her so that they are sharing a desk.

Lanhua shoots him a scowl. “Do you have to sit here?” she whispers.

Dongfang shrugs. “You got me in detention.”

“I didn’t!” she insists. “You’re the one who decided to go off in class and walk out. Besides, you got me in detention first!”

“Guess we’re even.”

With a huff she turns away, looking back at the other new student. “Don’t you want to sit with your friend?”

“He’s not my friend. He’s my younger brother, Xunfeng. And he can do what he wants.”

Lanhua rolls her eyes. Of course they’d be related and both in trouble on their first day. “Quiet,” the proctor mumbles behind his paper.

Not wanting another detention, Lanhua opens a book and starts reading. Out of the corner of her eye, she sees him lean on the desk and stare at her, his dark hair hanging in fringes across his eyes. “What?” she hisses.

“What’s a scholarship student?”

The question catches her so off guard that it takes her a second to process it. “Why do you want to know?” she asks.

“I asked around about you. Are you some kind of genius or something? You don’t seem particularly smart.”

It’s such an absurd insult that she huffs a laugh. “It’s none of your business. Don’t ask about me.”

“I can’t help it. You’re the only person I know here. I was curious.”

She studies his face a moment, debating if he is being truthful or not. Lanhua notices a few things about him: the way his hair falls in messy layers over his shoulders, the earring in one ear, how his top button is unbuttoned. All are rules he is breaking, and he doesn’t seem to care. His lips are curled into a knowing smile, one that looks like it holds plenty of secrets.

But maybe he doesn’t know the rules? Lanhua clears her throat, wondering if she should point it out. After all, she is the only person he’s met, and it is her job to make new students feel welcome. “Well,” she begins slowly, “all it means is that I have a work study. My guardian doesn’t pay tuition, so I work for Ms. Sansheng. That’s why I gave the tour this morning.”

He nods in response. “I never met anyone poor before.”

Her mouth drops open. “You can’t just say that! And I’m not—I mean, I’m fine. I might not be as rich as you—”

“Few people are,” he grins.

Ready to exit this conversation, Lanhua decides to ignore him. She holds up her book to block him from view but Dongfang says, “You’re also not intimidated by me. I would think being a nobody, you would find me…alarming.”

“Alarming?” Lanhua laughs and puts the book down, turning again to face him. “You are hardly alarming. You have been a thorn in my side since you pushed me into the pool at Homecoming.”

“Hey, you fell,” he argues. “And I saved you, don’t forget. So really, you belong to me now.”

She hasn’t forgotten, of course, and that makes Lanhua hesitate. She remembers the feel of his lips on hers and blushes. Dongfang stares at her, as if waiting for her to say something, and she wonders if he is thinking of that kiss too. Absentmindedly he plays with a ring on his finger, his gaze heavy on her face.

Is that what this is about? Does he have some kind of crush on her? The kiss meant nothing to her but he seems to be the one to bring it up not once, but twice. And he said she didn’t find him intimidating… maybe that’s what he likes about her?

Lanhua tries to suppress a smile. “Dongfang Qingcang,” she says sweetly, “I really am flattered. But I just don’t like you in that way.” She pats his hand sympathetically. “I’m sure you’re going to have no problem finding some friends, and even a girl to like you here at Shuiyuntian. But not me.”

“What are you talking about?” he growls. 

“There are many fish in the sea, after all.”

He narrows his eyes. “You owe me. And I will collect my debts.”

With that he turns away, pointedly ignoring her. Lanhua debates whether or not to continue their argument but decides it’s better to not engage. The rest of detention drags on and when they are finally able to escape, Donfang leaves without saying another word.

Changheng is waiting by the door when Lanhua leaves detention. She hesitates when she sees him leaning against the wall, but it’s clear he is waiting for her when he straightens as he spots her. Nervously she tucks her hair behind her ear and makes her way over, feeling her heart pounding in her chest.

“Xiao Lanhua,” he says. “Is it true you were in detention?”

Her cheeks flare with the question. “Yes,” she replies. 

“It’s my fault. All because of Homecoming.”

She blinks in surprise at his confession. “No, it wasn’t your fault! I was the one who went into the wrong room.”

“You wouldn’t have been involved at all if it wasn’t for that Dongfang Qingcang.” Changheng clenches his fist as his brows draw in together. “He’s the one who is really responsible. Showing up to Homecoming like that when he wasn’t invited.”

“I thought Homecoming was for everyone?” she says before realizing it.

Changheng looks at her strangely. “For students. He wasn’t one yet. If I have anything to do with it, he won’t be much longer.” He huffs and folds his arms. “I noticed you’ve been talking to him.”

Lanhua shakes her head. “Not really. I had to give him and the others a tour, and he…” She chews on her lip for a moment before continuing, “He says I owe him.”

“Owe him? For what? He knocked you into the pool.”

She realizes he doesn’t know that Dongfang Qingcang had saved her—or how. Shifting uncomfortably, she replies, “Oh, you know. He thinks I would have drowned if he hadn’t pulled me out. But I told him to forget it.”

“Good.” Changheng places a hand on her shoulder, and Lanhua draws in a deep breath. “Stay away from him, Xiao Lanhua. He’s nothing but trouble. I don’t want to see you anywhere near him, okay?”

“Okay.”

Changheng smiles. “I never got a chance to apologize for Homecoming anyway. I wanted to talk to you that night but got distracted by the Moon Prep crashers. I hope you weren’t too upset with me?”

Numbly she shakes her head, and with a disarming grin Changheng says goodbye and heads towards the exit. Lanhua watches him go, her shoulder still tingling from when he touched her. First Homecoming, now this? She nearly floats all the way home, replaying their conversation and doubling her resolve to stay as far away from Dongfang Qingcang as she can.

The next morning, Lanhua is called to the office first thing. Assuming Ms. Sansheng has an assignment for her, she heads there before class. Ms. Sansheng is waiting for her and leads her back into her private office.

“I have a special project for you,” she says as they enter.

Lanhua is about to ask more but stops short when she steps inside the room. Dongfang Qingcang is sitting in one of the chairs, lazily leaning on one arm rest and grinning at her slyly. Her heart sinks as she wonders if she is in some kind of trouble again. Was it from the disruption during detention? Her blood boils a bit thinking that he has meddled in her life again.

“You know Dongfang Qingcang, one of our new students,” Ms. Sansheng says.

Lanhua presses her lips together. “Yes, we met yesterday when I gave the tour.”

“Dongfang has expressed he is having a hard time adjusting to Shuiyuntian Academy,” Ms. Sansheng continues. “Which is completely understandable. I’m sure Shuiyuntian is very different from Moon Prep.”

Dongfang nods at her, his smile sliding into a smirk. Lanhua narrows her eyes at him. “What does this have to do with me?”

“He requested someone to help him learn the ropes, take the right classes, things like that. He suggested you and I thought that was a wonderful idea. You are a model student and know almost everyone in the student body.”

Lanhua sputters. “But—”

“I’m sure you will do a great job in getting Dongfang Qingcang acclimated.”

Ms Sansheng raises her brows, but Lanhua gapes at her, speechless. “I… what?” she finally chokes out.

Clearing her throat, Ms. Sansheng gestures to the door. “Xiao Lanhua, can I see you outside for a moment?”

They step out and Ms. Sansheng closes the door before looking at her sternly. “I don’t think I need to tell you how important this is.”

“Surely someone else would be better to show him around,” Lanhua pleads. 

“We need this student exchange to work. And in case you were not aware, Dongfang Qingcang is from an important and influential family. Shuiyuntian Academy does not need to make an enemy of his father.”

Lanhua sucks in a deep breath. “I just don’t see why I was chosen.”

“He asked for you specifically. I could hardly deny the request. Besides, I need someone to make sure he passes his classes and stays out of trouble. If yesterday is any indication, Dongfang Qingcang is going to need someone to keep a close eye on him.”

“But—”

“This will be your work study assignment for the rest of the year,” Ms. Sansheng says firmly. “And I expect you to complete your assignment in order to continue doing a work study next year. Do you understand?”

Not why she was chosen, not at all, but the consequences of failing are clear enough that Lanhua can hardly find the words to argue. Finally she nods, and Ms. Sansheng smiles. “Good. I’ve adjusted his schedule so you share the same classes. Just keep an eye on him, help him with catching up, and let me know if you observe anything I should be aware of.” She presses a hand to Lanhua’s arm. “I’m counting on you.”

Weakly she nods again, and Ms. Sansheng opens the door. “Excellent! All set. Dongfang Qingcang, why don’t you head to class with Xiao Lanhua. She’ll show you where to go.”

His smug look makes her scowl as he stands and shoves his hands in his pockets. Lanhua turns away and walks quickly through the office, but he is on her heels as they reach the hallway. He follows her silently as she moves to her locker, and to her annoyance he leans against the row as she unlocks the door to hers. “You aren’t really going to follow me all day, are you?” she groans.

“You heard Ms. Sansheng,” he chuckles. “You’ve been assigned to help me out. So you better do a good job.”

Angry now, Lanhua yanks her books out. “Why me? Why ask for me specifically?”

“I told you yesterday, you’re the only person I know.” He smiles again. “Besides, you owe me.”

Lanhua slams her locker shut. “I don’t owe you anything.”

He moves then, crowding into her space until Lanhua is flat against the lockers. He places one arm over her head and leans in until their faces are just inches apart. The ring on his finger catches a glint of light as he stares at her. She recalls how he did the same in the changing room at the pool, when he berated her for falling in the water and accused her of pulling him along. Her heart pounds in her chest as her mouth goes dry. 

“You belong to me,” he says quietly. “I saved your life.” His eyes travel up and down and Lanhua shivers. “And I have a special job for you to pay back your debt.”

“What are you talking about?” she hisses.

“I want to become the top student at this stupid little school. At Moon Prep, everyone feared me, and I want the proper respect here. To do that, I need to take down that Changheng. You’re going to help me.”

“Changheng?” Lanhua frowns. “What did he ever do to you?”

“He started the fight at Homecoming. He’s trying to get me expelled.” Lanhua remembers what Changheng had told her the day before and feels her neck heat. Dongfang lifts his chin and looks down at her with hooded eyes. “I won’t stop until that bastard is taken down from his perch at the top. Then I will rule this school, and no one will dare question me.”

His words send a chill down her spine, and Lanhau shifts uncomfortably. “You’re joking.”

Dongfang chuckles. “You’ll see. No one crosses Dongfang Qingcang and gets away with it.”

With a deep sigh, Lanhua looks away. She notices a few students staring and whispering, so she presses her hands to his chest. “Move back,” she whispers.

To her surprise, he eases back immediately. “Let’s go,” he says. “Can’t be late for class, can we?”

His presence is heavy next to her as they head towards the classroom, and to her dismay he takes the seat directly behind her. Thankfully, he doesn’t make a scene in Mathematics, but Lanhua is acutely aware of him staring at her all through class, barely able to complete the practice formulas given by the professor. She breathes a sigh of relief when the bell rings, glad to be one class closer to the end of the day.

History goes much worse. Dongfang Qingcang makes a big show of walking in together, and Lanhua cringes to herself when Changheng stares at them as they cross the room. Once again he takes the seat next to her, and Lanhua slumps in her seat as the others talk and shoot glances in their direction.

He manages to make it through class without creating a scene, although not without plenty of sighing and snide comments. Lanhua can hear him complaining all through class, and at one point spins to shoot him a furious look. Dongfang Qingcang hadn’t even bothered to open his notebook, and when she looks at him pointedly he makes a face back. Rolling her eyes, she turns back to the lesson, deciding if he doesn’t want to take notes then that’s his own problem.

The students are packing their things at the end of class when Changheng pulls Lanhua aside. “What’s going on?” he whispers. “I thought you were staying away from him. Now I hear you’re going to classes together?”

“It’s hard to explain,” she answers. “Ms. Sansheng wants me to keep an eye on him.”

Changheng makes a sour face. “This isn’t right. I’ll talk to her myself.”

“There’s nothing you can do,” Lanhua insists. “I’ll be fine. He just…” She looks over to where Dongfang Qingcang is watching them with great interest. “I just have to get him situated in the school and I’m sure things will go back to normal.”

“I don’t like it.”

“Really, it’s okay.” Lanhua does her best to put on a brave smile. “Thank you for worrying about me.”

Changheng nods but keeps his gaze on Dongfang Qingcang as they head to their next class. Dongfang’s smirk irritates her as they walk. “Changheng is nice. You would know that if you got to know him,” Lanhua remarks. “You could be friends.”

“I don’t need people to like me,” he says in response. “I want them to fear me.”

“You’re being ridiculous.”

“What about you?” he counters. “I don’t see you with a ton of friends. Everyone talks about you behind your back. So where does being nice get you exactly?”

His words sting, and Lanhua swallows thickly to keep her emotions in check. “You don’t understand anything,” she mutters, refusing to speak to him again for the rest of the day.

Chapter Text

For the next couple of weeks, Dongfang Qingcang continues to be a thorn in Xiao Lanhua’s side. She tries at first to kill him with kindness, but anything she says is rebuffed with sarcasm until she finds herself arguing back. He refuses to follow the dress code, get to class on time, or hand in any homework. He spends more time arguing with the teachers about the assignments they give than actually completing any. In just a few days, Lanhua is at her wit’s end.

Xiao Lanhua does her best to avoid Dongfang Qingcang on the way to lunch, but somehow he always ends up finding her table and making himself at home. She sighs as he slides into the seat next to her again, the only other two students sitting at the table standing and taking their things away. “What do you want?” she asks.

“You haven’t helped me one bit,” he complains. “What have you even been doing this past week?”

“What?” She turns to him with a look of annoyance. “What do you expect me to do? You barely stay awake in class, if you show up at all. I keep reminding you of assignments but you refuse to do any work. I even got you an extension in History, which was not easy by the way, and you won’t turn in your essay. What do you want from me?”

Dongfang Qingcang waves his hand. “I don’t care about all of that. I’m talking about your real objective. Find me some dirt on Changheng and the rest of his crew.”

Xiao Lanhua huffs in response. “No way! I’m not going to help you in your dumb revenge scheme.”

“Why not?” he complains. “I told you, you owe me. I own you until then.”

Rolling her eyes, she turns back to her lunch. “You keep reminding me.”

“Well? What do you know about him?”

She swallows her sandwich thoughtfully, trying not to make any eye contact. The truth is, she knows quite a bit about Changheng, more than she probably should. She might have taken a peek at his file in the office, but for a very good reason. Just one she can’t think of at the moment.

Dongfang Qingcang raises his eyebrows as the silence stretches between them, and Xiao Lanhua makes a face. “There’s nothing you don’t already know. He’s the top student in our grade and class president. He’s captain of half a dozen sports teams. He’s the most popular boy in school.”

“What’s that expression mean?”

Lanhua feels her cheeks heat as she quickly clears her throat. “What expression?”

“You just went all… different.” Dongfang Qingcang frowns and leans in to examine her closely. “Don’t tell me you like that blockhead.”

“If anyone is a blockhead, it’s you,” she argues back. “And I like him as a friend. We’re friends.”

Dongfang Qingcang huffs a laugh. “Yeah right. Just like the others are. What’s he do, copy your homework and not bother to say thanks?”

“No,” she snaps. “For your information, we went to the Homecoming party together.”

That seems to stop him in his tracks. Dongfang’s face molds into an expression she can’t quite understand as he stares at her. “I see,” he bites out before standing and abruptly storming away from the table.

To her surprise, he actually turns up at Horticulture class, although he promptly finds a chair to take a nap. Xiao Lanhua ignores him to work on her orchid, until her friend Jieli calls her over for help.

Jieli is one of the few non-scholarship students who actually talks to her, although usually it’s because she wants something. But Xiao Lanhua feels that deep down she’s very kind, so she doesn’t mind helping when asked. 

“What do you think?” 

Xiao Lanhua and Jieli both look closely at the rose, drawing in close so their heads are nearly touching. “I think it’s looking great,” Lanhua replies.

“But the curling?” Jieli points to a bit on the side of one petal that isn’t perfectly curved. “I don’t know what to do about that.”

“I think it looks nice that way,” says Xiao Lanhua. “It gives the rose some personality.”

“This is my final project,” Jieli complains. “It has to be perfect.”

Something pokes Xiao Lanhua in the arm and they both turn to see Dongfang Qingcang standing with his arms folded. “I’m bored,” he says. “Let’s go.”

Xiao Lanhua puts a hand on her hip. “We can’t just go,” she says pointedly. “We’re in the middle of class. You should be working on your project.”

“This is stupid.” He gestures to the rose. “Who cares about a bunch of plants?”

“What are you even doing over here?” Jieli complains. “I’m trying to talk to Xiao Lanhua.”

Lanhua takes a deep breath, recognizing the look on Dongfang Qingcang’s face as he is gearing up to argue, when Shangque makes his way over. “Hey, Jieli,” he grins.

The argument diffuses as she looks at him with a frown. “What?”

“I uh… was wondering, do you have some compost I can borrow?”

Jieli folds her arms. “Ten dollars.”

“Are you serious?”

“She’s not serious,” Xiao Lanhua says quickly, waving her hand as Jieli tries to object. “Come on, I’ll show you where it is.”

“Oh. Okay. Thanks, Xiao Lanhua.”

She gets Shangque set up with the supplies he needs before returning to her own project. Dongfang Qingcang is camped out in front of her space, but she steps around him to take measurements of the orchid. It’s grown slightly in the past weeks, but she worries it won’t be fully mature by the time the end of the semester comes. “If only I had more heat,” she murmurs.

“What was that?”

Lanhua doesn’t bother to look over as she replies, “Nothing. Just thinking out loud.”

“If you need more heat, why not get some lamps or something?”

Xiao Lanhua shrugs a shoulder. “There are only so many to go around, and they are all being used. I can’t afford to buy my own.”

“Hmph. That’s why this is dumb.”

She makes a face. “You just don’t get it.”

“What’s there to get?”

Lanhua huffs impatiently. “Growing something from a seed is like witnessing a bit of magic. You have this fragile little thing, and if you give it enough attention it blossoms into something beautiful. It takes more than just some dirt and water. It takes time, and patience, and care.” She gives him a sideways glance. “Those probably aren’t familiar concepts, are they?”

Dongfang Qingcang frowns. “Whatever.”

Xiao Lanhua takes that as a victory, smiling to herself as she goes back to her orchid.

Ms. Sansheng calls for Xiao Lanhua to go to the office, and there is a pit in her stomach when she stops by the next morning. “Yes?” she asks meekly when she arrives. “You wanted to see me?”

“I wanted an update on Dongfang Qingcang,” Ms. Sansheng says. “I’ve checked with his teachers and he seems to be defiant and lazy. Is this true?”

“Well…” Lanhua wrings her hands. “He can be, I suppose? But I think it’s more that he’s bored. He’s very intelligent—”

“That isn’t reflected in his grades,” Ms. Sansheng corrects. “He is barely passing anything.” She walks around her desk and approaches Xiao Lanhua with a sour look. “I thought I had explained to you how important this student exchange is. The other students from Moon Prep seem to be settling in, and it’s imperative that Dongfang Qingcang has a successful year here. Professor Yunzhong is taking an interest in this, as well.”

Xiao Lanhua swallows thickly. Yunzhong is the headmaster of the school, someone who is only seen when you’ve done something very right, or very wrong. “I understand. I’ll keep trying.”

“Good. That’s all I ask.”

She quickly makes her escape, and when she arrives at her first class and sees that Dongfang Qingcang is absent again, Xiao Lanhua starts to get angry. If he was messing up his own future, that would be his own business, and good riddance to him. But her own future at Shuiyuntian Academy could be at risk, and he doesn’t even care to show up!

Xiao Lanhua spends the day fuming, and when she sees Shangque she demands to know where Dongfang Qingcang is. Shangque gives a half-hearted excuse, and she makes up her mind to do something once and for all.

His address is easy to find in his file, and Xiao Lanhua rides the bus out to Cangyan Sea. She looks in wonder at the houses that grow larger and more elaborate the further she goes. She had thought the kids at Shuiyuntian Academy were rich; the Cangyan Sea part of town seems to be even more wealthy.

She gets turned around only once before she finds the address. The home is one of the largest, a long driveway leading up to a beautiful set of doors, large windows giving a modern touch to the house. 

Feeling more than intimidated, Xiao Lanhua screws up her courage to step up to the front door and ring the bell. Several moments tick by before a woman in a uniform answers. “Can I help you?” she asks, curiously but kindly.

“Hi,” she says. “My name is Xiao Lanhua. I’m a… classmate of Dongfang Qingcang. Is he here?”

“A classmate?” the woman replies in surprise. “Um, certainly. Please step inside.”

The house is even more impressive inside, the foyer leading to a large staircase and tall, vaulted ceilings. The woman tells her to wait and disappears into another part of the house. Lanhua uses the time to take it all in, mentally comparing it to her own cozy house. She imagines four or five Arbiter Halls could fit into the first floor alone.

A door opens and a very angry-looking man in a suit walks out, yelling into his phone. “This isn’t what was discussed! I want to know what they think they—”

He stops abruptly when he sees Xiao Lanhua, and she blushes, wishing she could shrink away under his scrutiny. “Who are you?” he demands.

“I’m a–a friend of Dongfang Qingcang,” she manages to stutter.

“Nonsense. Dongfang Qingcang doesn’t have time for friends.” Before she can wonder what that means, he bellows his name. “Dongfang Qingcang! Get down here this instant!”

Xiao Lanhua jumps at the shout, but a moment later Dongfang Qingcang appears at the top of the stairs. “What do you—”

He freezes when he sees her, and then Dongfang is taking the stairs two at a time, racing over to where she stands. “What are you doing here?” he hisses.

Lanhua looks down at the books she holds. “I brought you some work since you missed today—”

“Skipping school again?” the man roars. “What have I told you about that? You need to be the top student!”

“I didn’t skip,” Dongfang Qingcang mutters. “I had things to do.” He gives Xiao Lanhua a little push towards the door. “Come on. She’s just leaving.”

Before she can protest he is pulling her away, and Xiao Lanhua finds herself out on the front stoop a moment later. “I’m sorry if—”

“What were you thinking, coming here?” Dongfang Qingcang bites out through gritted teeth. 

“I brought you some school work—”

He grabs it from her hands and yanks it away. “There. Now get out of here.”

“You don’t have to be so rude!” she protests.

He shoots her a scowl before stepping back and practically slamming the door. Xiao Lanhua clenches her fists, but decides against knocking and giving him a piece of her mind. Instead, she mutters under her breath all the things she’d like to say as she storms away, heading to the bus stop.

It’s getting dark now, and Lanhua zippers up her jacket as she makes the trek back to the main road. A few minutes later a car pulls up, and she ignores it until the driver slows and yells, “Xiao Lanhua!”

Startled, she stops to look. It’s not a car at all, but a motorcycle, and Dongfang Qingcang is leaning on the handlebars, his expression pure impatience. “Let’s go. Get on.”

“No,” she says pointedly. “You made it quite clear that you didn’t want me anywhere near you.”

“I don’t want you at my house. Get on the bike. I’ll drive you home.”

“But—”

“It’s late and the bus stops running. You getting on or not?”

“No, I’m not getting on!” she cries. “What is with you? You’re driving me crazy!” Dongfang looks surprised but Xiao Lanhua can’t stop herself as she continues ranting, “I didn’t ask to take care of you, I was given an assignment and I have to do it because I’m on scholarship. Something you would never understand, judging by the size of your house, not to mention your ego! And even though you just threw me out of your house you want to drive me home? Do you know how mixed up you are? You’re nice to me one minute and the next you insist I owe you and you make my job hard when you could do any of this work with your eyes closed because you’re actually smart! Don’t think I don’t know who you really are, Dongfang Qingcang. But instead of letting me help you, you just want to act like a jerk.”

Xiao Lanhua takes a deep breath, her eyes going wide as she realizes what she’s just said. But Dongfang looks as unimpressed as always. “You done?”

Lanhua nods.

“Good. Now hop on.”

“I’ve never been on a motorcycle before.”

Dongfang Qingcang rolls his eyes. “Just hold on to me. I won’t let you fall.”

She debates for a half second before scurrying over to the bike. Awkwardly she sits behind him, straddling the seat as he hands her his helmet. “Are you going to say I owe you for this too?” she mutters.

Dongfang Qingcang snorts but doesn’t reply as he pulls away. She gives her address and holds on to his waist as they drive, and the two ride in silence as he drives surprisingly carefully. Xiao Lanhua would have figured he would be speeding and blowing through red lights. It’s almost nice, the evening cool but clear, and even though Xiao Lanhua has never been on a motorcycle before she feels strangely at ease. She presses against his back, the leather jacket reminding her of when they first met and he yelled at her for ruining it. His body is solid and warm, almost comforting.

They are nearly there when she says, “I’m sorry for just showing up. I didn’t know when you’d be back.”

He gives a noncommittal noise and they lapse back into silence. Lanhua decides she has tried enough and turns her head, watching the city transform from the large, beautiful homes of the wealthy to the more crowded buildings in the center, where she lives. 

The bike pulls up in front of the building and Dongfang Qingcang frowns. “Is this really it?”

Xiao Lanhua glances at the small building, the sign outside reading Arbiter Hall Destiny Books swaying slightly. “Yes. It’s a bookshop. I live above it.”

“You own a bookshop?”

“Not me,” she corrects him. “My foster mom. But she’s away at the moment.”

“Huh.” Dongfang looks straight ahead, and when he doesn’t reply again she climbs from the bike. “Thanks for the ride.”

“I didn’t skip today,” he says. “Not on purpose. My dad kept me up half the night lecturing me, and I slept through the alarm.”

“Oh.” Xiao Lanhua isn’t sure what to make of that, so she continues, “He sounds like he’s strict.”

“Only with me. Xunfeng can do what he wants.” Dongfang Qingcang laughs humorlessly. “He’s convinced I need shaping up, so that I can take over the business when I’m older. But I’ll be damned if I’m stuck running his stupid company. I want to do my own thing.”

Lanhua tilts her head. “What’s that you want to do?”

He glances at her sideways, almost looking surprised. “Haven’t decided.”

“I see.” The air between them is awkward now, so Lanhua quickly holds out the helmet. “Thanks again for the ride. See you tomorrow.”

He takes it and she gives a half wave, and once he replaces the helmet on his head he pulls away and disappears down the street. Xiao Lanhua watches him go, but not before she spots two Shuiyuntian students hanging out on the corner and watching as well. She ducks her head before hurrying inside the shop, eager to put this day behind her.

Chapter Text

Changheng is waiting at Xiao Lanhua’s locker the next morning. She nearly stumbles in surprise, but manages to hopefully look calm and collected as she approaches. “Hi,” she says shyly.

“Xiao Lanhua, I have something to ask you,” he says seriously. Her heart leaps into her throat until he continues, “Are you dating Dongfang Qingcang?”

“What? No!” Lanhua laughs at the idea. “What made you think we were dating?”

He pulls out his cell phone and navigates with a few taps before turning it around. There is a picture of her outside of the bookshop, Dongfang clearly on his motorcycle as she waves goodbye. “Why is he driving you home?”

“I dropped off some work. I told you about Ms. Sansheng wanting me to help him out, didn’t I?” Xiao Lanhua nibbles her lip nervously. “It’s not what it looks like, I promise.”

Changheng sighs. “He’s bad news. Just stay away as much as you can.”

Lanhua frowns. “I don’t think he’s bad news. A bit lazy and sarcastic, and he gives some of the teachers a headache, but he’s not dangerous or anything.”

“That’s because you don’t know him,” Changheng argues.

“I know him pretty well,” she replies.

He shakes his head. “He practically ruled at his old school. Everyone did his bidding. Even the teachers didn’t mess with him.” Xiao Lanhua flushes a bit, remembering Dongfang Qingcang’s pledge to do the same at Shuiyuntian. “But we won’t let that happen here,” Changheng continues. “If I have my way, he’ll be back at Moon Prep by midterms.”

Xiao Lanhua sighs. Although she knows that Dongfang Qingcang is far from innocent, this still seems to be a bit much. “Why don’t you try to get to know him?” she offers. “He’s not so bad when he’s… well, not being himself.”

“Just take my advice,” Changheng warns. “And don’t engage with him outside of school. I get you’re supposed to keep an eye on him, but from a distance. Nobody will fault you if he keeps screwing up on his own.”

She can’t help but feel a weird disappointment when Changheng leaves, and not just because their conversation was entirely about Dongfang Qingcang. She feels a strange sort of protection for him, and wonders on her way to class how she can convince everyone that Dongfang isn’t as bad as he seems—of course, that would mean cooperation from Dongfang Qingcang. At this rate she’s more likely to get him straight A’s. 

Dongfang isn’t in class again, solidifying her disappointment. Did his father keep him up all night again? Debating whether or not to check on him again, Lanhua asks Shangque if he knows anything. However, Shangque avoids the question and makes himself busy carrying supplies for Jieli, leaving Xiao Lanhua distracted as she goes to work on her project.

Her fingers move absentmindedly over the keyboard as she works on her report when her name catches her attention. The teacher calls her over and gestures to a large box sitting by her desk. “Did you order something to be delivered?” the teacher scolds.

“No?” But her name is on the package, and when she opens it, Xiao Lanhua is shocked to find two warming lamps inside. “There must be some mistake.”

“You can use equipment from home, but I would prefer you not have it shipped here,” the teacher says. “I’ll let it slide this one time.”

Xiao Lanhua nods and carries the lamps back to her orchid, kneeling down to position them as she pulls out the instruction manual. These will be perfect to give the orchid enough heat, but where did they come from? Siming wouldn’t have ordered them, and neither would Ms. Sansheng. For a second she thinks of Changheng, but that’s just silly. Who even knew she needed them?

Dongfang Qingcang doesn’t show up for the first two classes again, and Xiao Lanhua has an inner debate about whether she should try his house again. Instead, she decides to track down Xunfeng and find out what is really going on with his brother. Happy to have a plan, she dives into her lunch when she is promptly interrupted by Dongfang himself.

He sits on the table, not the bench, and makes a face at her soup and sandwich. “Is that all you got?” he asks.

“There you are!” she exclaims in surprise. “Where have you been?”

“Around. Is that all you’re eating?”

Xiao Lanhua shrugs. “What else is there? I just get the basic lunch.”

“You need to eat more. You’re too thin as it is.”

She decides against arguing and returns to her food as Dongfang Qingcang looks around. “You’re going to start paying me back today,” he says. “Let’s start with everyone who is here.”

Lanhua sputters into her soup before looking up at him with a confused expression. “What? And where were you anyway? Do you only show up for lunch now?”

He waves away her questions impatiently. “You already told me about that idiot Changheng, as unhelpful as that was. Now I want to know about the rest of Shuiyuntian. For instance…” He nods towards one table. “Who is that?”

Xiao Lanhua tries to look casually, ducking when she realizes he is staring at Danyin. “She’s in our History class,” Lanhua says meekly. “Her name is Danyin.”

“She acts like she owns the class. What is her deal?”

Lanhua shrugs. “She’s a top student and very popular. As popular as Changheng. Most of the girls are either in awe of her or scared of her.”

Dongfang Qingcang gives a sly smile. “That’s one I’d love to take down. Who else? Who is at that table?”

“That’s Ronghao,” Xiao Lanhua explains. “He’s the top student in the class ahead of us. He’s also best friends with Changheng.”

“Hmm.” Dongfang Qingcang frowns to himself. “It seems like the key to becoming most powerful in this school is to have top marks.”

“That’s a lot of it,” Xiao Lanhua says. “There’s a lot of bragging that goes on when grades are posted. You don’t want to see your name at the bottom.”

His eyes go sharp on her. “Where is your name?”

“Me? Oh, I do fine,” she says mildly. The truth is, she is a perfectly average student, which doesn’t help her social status. But with work and taking care of the shop, there’s little time for extra tutoring or extracurriculars, so Lanhua has learned to be content with her place in the middle of the pack. “But the choices you’ve been making? You’ll be on the bottom for sure.”

“Hm.” Several minutes go by as Dongfang Qingcang sits in thought, and Xiao Lanhua is grateful for the interrogation to be over. 

He is playing with the ring again, so Xiao Lanhua asks, “What is that, by the way?”

“This?” He holds up his hand. “My class ring from Moon Prep. Everyone gets one.”

Xiao Lanhua rolls her eyes. “You’re not at Moon Prep anymore. Isn’t it strange to wear it here?”

“I’ll be going there before you know it,” he replies. “I can’t wait to get out of Shuiyuntian and back where I belong.”

She finishes her food quickly and stands, gathering her tray. “I need to check in at the office before next period,” she says. “Make sure you actually show up, okay?”

“What’s this?” Dongfang Qingcang reaches out and tugs at her sweater. Several strands of wool come loose, and Xiao Lanhua tugs her arm away before he can unravel it even more. 

“It’s nothing,” she says. “My sweater is just a bit old, is all. I got it second-hand.”

His brows draw together. “Can’t you even afford a decent sweater?”

“Just don’t be late to class, got it?” she sighs in exasperation.

The next morning, Xiao Lanhua finds a new sweater hanging up in her locker. She looks around in surprise, wondering if someone left theirs in her locker by accident. But that’s probably impossible, as no one knows her combination.

She traces her finger along the sleeve, the stitching brand new and soft. Who would have left this for her? The only person who has been lurking around her locker lately is Changheng. Would he have found out her combination, and left her a gift? Xiao Lanhua smiles to herself, quickly swapping out her old sweater for the new one.

Her mind is preoccupied as she closes the locker door, and when she turns she bumps into someone. Before she can apologize she is shoved to the side, slamming back into the wall.

“Ouch!” Xiao Lanhua yelps, dropping her books on the ground. She looks up to see Danyin glaring at her, arms folded as a small group of students gather around.

“Watch where you’re going,” Danyin snaps.

Xiao Lanhua nods, stooping to pick up her things. “Sorry. I was distracted.”

“By Dongfang Qingcang?” His name makes her jump, and Lanhua quickly stands as the students share a laugh. “Dreaming about your boyfriend?” Danyin teases.

“He’s not my boyfriend.”

“Really? Then why is he driving you around? Why are you spending so much time with him?” Danyin laughs again. “He must have been pretty impressed by your little act at Homecoming.”

Xiao Lanhua swallows thickly. “I’m just trying to help him get adjusted—”

“Speaking of Homecoming, you still owe everyone for ruining everything,” Danyin continues. “You just had to get involved and fall into the pool like an idiot. The party would have been fine if it wasn’t for you.”

Clutching her books closely, Lanhua shakes her head. “I didn’t mean for any of that to happen.”

“Well, I think you should make it up to everyone.” Danyin steps in closer, and Lanhua shrinks back against the wall. “Anyone who takes up with one of the Moon Prep students is a traitor to Shuiyuntian. And you know what we do to traitors?”

One of the onlookers reaches out and grabs Xiao Lanhua by the arm, yanking her forward just as someone else knocks her book out of her hands. She falls to her knees, wincing at the sudden flare of pain as her legs meet the tile floor. She reaches to push herself up, but the hand still gripping her jerks her back, making her gasp in alarm.

Before she can react any further, someone steps in front of her, pushing the offender back and moving to block the rest from getting closer. “Stay away from her.”

Xiao Lanhua’s head snaps up at the familiar voice. Dongfang Qingcang stands in front of her, his hands balled into fists as he practically snarls at the others. She quickly scrambles to her feet, pressing a hand on his shoulder. “Dongfant Qingcang—”

“Of course you would be here to defend her,” Danyin scoffs. “We knew she had taken your side!”

Afraid of a fight breaking out, Xiao Lanhua tries to inch forward, but Dongfang Qingcang keeps himself solidly between her and the other students. “That’s right,” he says. “She belongs to me now. And I don’t let anyone touch what belongs to me.”

“Dongfang Qingcang!” Lanhua hisses.

He bends down to grab her book before taking her by the arm. “Anyone else want to try?” he nearly shouts.

The others look ready to argue, but Danyin takes a step back, a sour look on her face. “Just let them go,” she huffs. Then he is pushing her ahead of him, down the hallway and away from the ever-growing crowd of students. Xiao Lanhua ducks her head, embarrassment heating her cheeks. The others had never been nice to her, but they had never outright bullied her like that either. By the time they are down a set of steps and out in the courtyard, she is trembling.

“When are you going to learn to take care of yourself?” he scolds, pushing her books back into her arms.

Xiao Lanhua nods, swallowing thickly around the lump in her throat. “Thank you for what you did back there. I didn’t realize how angry everyone was.”

Dongfang Qingcang huffs, tossing his hair as he looks to the side and shoves his hands in his coat. “They’re lucky they didn’t hurt you. You aren’t hurt, are you?”

She looks at her wrist, a small mark forming where she had been grabbed. Dongfang Qingcang’s eyes go wide as he grabs her hand, turning it to examine her wrist carefully. “Those bastards,” he growls. “I should go back there and—”

“Xiao Lanhua!” Changheng appears in the doorway, hurrying over but stopping short once Dongfang Qingcang steps in front of her again. “Xiao Lanhua,” he tries again, “come over here.”

“Absolutely not,” Dongfang says. “Xiao Lanhua has had enough of you Shuiyuntian students today.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Go ask your friends,” Dongfang replies angrily. “They ganged up on Xiao Lanhua and pushed her to the ground.”

Changheng’s brows draw together. “No, that can’t be right.” He looks at Xiao Lanhua in disbelief. “Is that true?”

She nods slowly, rubbing her wrist. “I’m sure it was a misunderstanding—Danyin and the others—”

“No misunderstanding,” Dongfang Qingcang growls. “Keep away from Xiao Lanhua, and warn your friends to do the same.”

“Who are you to talk for Xiao Lanhua?” Changheng demands.

Dongfang Qingcang’s face twists before he puts an arm around her. “She’s under my protection now,” he says firmly. “We’re dating.”

“Dating?” Xiao Lanhua and Changheng say at the same time.

“That’s right.” 

To prove it, he turns and presses his lips to hers. Xiao Lanhua’s eyes go wide, but his gaze bores into hers for a long moment before his eyes close. She can practically feel Changheng getting angry, but she is so shocked to be kissing Dongfang Qingcang she forgets to actually protest until he pulls away.

Dongfang Qingcang turns his head and glares at Changheng. “Any more questions?”

Changheng’s eyes are wide, but he takes a step back. Without a word he turns and heads back into the school, and once he is gone Xiao Lanhua remembers herself and pushes Dongfang Qingcang away. “What are you doing?” she cries.

“I just saved you,” he argues. “Again. Your debt has gone up.”

“Why would you tell him we’re dating?” Xiao Lanhua exclaims. “What are you even doing here? You’re never here this early!”

“I was at the library, if you even bothered to ask,” he replies with a growl. “Now let’s go. I’m walking you to class.”

“No.” Xiao Lanhua puts her hand out, needing a bit of distance between them. “That’s what started all this.” Her shoulders slump, wishing he would understand. “Thank you for standing up for me, really. That’s the first time anyone has ever done that.” Dongfang Qingcang looks almost pleased with himself, until she says, “But I think it’s best if I go by myself.”

She steps around him to leave, but he stops her. “Xiao Lanhua…”

Carefully she removes his hand from her arm. Then she steps away, heading towards class and trying not to think about his lips on hers.

Chapter Text

Xiao Lanhua is eating lunch when, to her surprise, Shangque sits down at her table. “Hey, Xiao Lanhua,” he says, and she looks up in surprise. “Can I ask you something?”

She swallows her food with wide eyes. “Sure. What’s up?”

“You’re friends with Jieli, right?”

Xiao Lanhua nods. Jieli is pretty much the only person still talking  to her, and Xiao Lanhua has started looking forward to helping her with her roses as much as taking care of her own orchid. “We’re friends. Kind of. Why?”

“Is she seeing someone?”

“Uh…” Jieli wouldn't necessarily tell her if she is, but she wouldn’t not tell her either. “I don’t think so. Why?” Xiao Lanhua leans forward slyly. “Do you like her?”

Shangque suddenly has a coughing fit, which lasts several seconds before he replies, “Um, I just… I was thinking of…”

“It’s okay,” Xiao Lanhua chuckles. “I think you should go for it. Worst she can say is no.”

Shangque doesn’t look convinced of that. “I think of worse things she can say than just no,” he mutters.

“Hey.” They both look up to see Dongfang Qingcang standing next to the table, arms folded impatiently. “You done yet?”

“But I wanted some advice from Xiao Lanhua,” Shangque complains.

Dongfang Qingcang scoffs. “What would she even know about dating?” he asks.

“I know about dating,” Xiao Lanhua protests.

“I already told you what to do,” Dongfang Qingcang continues, ignoring her complaint. “Don’t ask. Just tell Jieli that you want to go out and what time she should be ready.”

Shangque looks doubtful, and Xiao Lanhua bursts out laughing. “You can’t be serious! Have you ever met Jieli? She hates being told what to do.” Lanhua pats Shangque on the hand. “I really think you should just be honest with your feelings.”

Dongfang Qingcang sits next to her, nudging her down the bench with his hip. “No way. Girls like a strong hand. She’ll respect you more if you demand a date.”

“Have you never dated in your life?” Xiao Lanhua exclaims.

“Oh, like you have so much experience?” he teases.

Xiao Lanhua presses her lips together. “Well according to you and half the school, we’re dating now.”

He looks almost embarrassed, if Xiao Lanhua thought he was capable of such a thing. “Right. Well. People are gonna believe what they want to believe.” Before she can say anything further, he stands and gestures to Shangque. “Come on, let’s go.”

Xiao Lanhua worries about Shangque all the way until Horticulture class. She spies Dongfang Qingcang giving him what looks like the world’s worst pep talk in the corner of the room, so she slides up to Jieli and whispers, “Hey, Jieli. I have a favor to ask you.”

“I have nothing to lend you,” Jieli replies without looking up from her pruning. 

“No, it’s not that. But we’re friends, right?”

Jieli frowns and glances over. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, if I asked you to do something, you’d do it because we’re friends. Right?”

Jieli narrows her eyes. “Depends on what it is.”

“I was hoping you’d be nice to Shangque. See, he…” Xiao Lanhua glances over nervously. “If he tries to talk to you, be nice to him. Please? For me?”

Jieli snorts a laugh. “I don’t know why you care about him so badly. Isn’t he friends with that Dongfang Qingcang who is giving you trouble?”

“You know about that?” Xiao Lanhua asks in surprise.

“Everyone knows about that.”

“Yeah, but…” Xiao Lanhua shrugs. “You don’t usually do gossip.”

“Doesn’t mean I don’t have ears.” She points her pruning shears at Xiao Lanhua. “Do you need me to say something? Unlike everyone else, I’m not afraid of him.”

“No, I can handle him,” Lanhua assures her. “Just be nice to Shangque.”

Jieli shrugs. “I’m always nice.”

Lanhua isn’t too sure about that, but she heads back to her orchid, watching closely when Shangque finally makes his way awkwardly towards her. She strains to listen to their conversation, and jumps a foot high when Dongfang Qingcang is suddenly behind her. “What are they saying?”

“You scared me!” she hisses as he gives her a look. “I don’t know. I can’t read lips.”

He huffs impatiently. “I think he’s trying your nice technique. Not gonna work.”

Xiao Lanhua rolls her eyes. “I bet you it will.”

“I’ll take that bet. Loser pays for dinner.”

The idea surprises her, but Xiao Lanhua nods. “Okay, fine.”

“I’m not a cheap date.”

She can’t stop the chuckle at that, and they fall silent, both watching as Shangque and Jieli talk. Finally he turns and walks away, both of them pressing together as they wait. Shangque finally glances over and flashes a thumbs up sign.

“Ha!” Xiao Lanhua pumps her fist, happy for him but mostly glad she won. “Yes! Now you owe me.”

“Fine,” he grumbles, although he doesn’t look too upset.

In History the next day, Professor Liyuan announces a new project. “You’ll be reporting on an important figure in recent history,” he says. “You’ll be working in pairs for this project.”

The others chatter to each other excitedly, but Xiao Lanhua slumps down in her seat. She would have had a hard enough time getting a partner before, but her new status as social pariah is definitely going to make it impossible. There is Dongfang Qingcang, of course, and she groans internally at the idea.

“Let’s have some volunteers,” the teacher says. “Who would like to pair up?”

A few students immediately make requests, and sure enough she feels a familiar poke on her shoulder. She looks over at Dongfang Qingcang, who is staring back with a blank expression. “Well?” he asks.

It can’t be helped, she supposes, so she raises her hand. But before she can say anything, Changheng says loudly, “I’d like to request Xiao Lanhua.”

The room immediately goes silent, and all heads turn to her. Her mouth falls open as Changheng glances back with a small smile. “Is that okay, Lanhua?”

“Um… yeah. Okay.” Her cheeks go immediately on fire, and the whispers start immediately. But Changheng just shoots her a grin before turning around.

“Hey!” Dongfang Qingcang hisses. “You were supposed to be my partner!”

“And that leaves Dongfang Qingcang and… Taoshu. You’ll be the final pair. I expect an outline by the end of the week. Class dismissed.”

Dongfang Qingcang is still trying to get her attention as she packs her things, and finally she says to him, “Taoshu is a really great writer. You’re lucky to have her as a partner.”

His expression tells a different story. “What’s with you?” he demands. “You’re supposed to be helping me out.”

“Changheng asked, not the other way around. So don’t give Taoshu a problem, okay?”

Xiao Lanhua grabs her bag and heads out, most of the students already gone. Before she can get to the door, Changheng steps in front of her. “Thanks for agreeing,” he says. “I’m excited to partner up for this.”

“Yeah… why did you ask me, anyway?” she asks. “You could have partnered with anyone in the class you wanted to.”

Changheng shrugs. “I wanted to partner with you. Can we get together tonight and start brainstorming?”

Xiao Lanhua nods but Dongfang Qingcang slides up next to her, draping his arm around her shoulders. “Sorry, she can’t tonight,” he says. “We have plans.”

“What plans?” Lanhua sighs.

“Studying. Big test tomorrow in Mathematics and Xiao Lanhua has to help me study.” He grins at her as he continues, “Ms. Sansheng wouldn’t want me to fail, so she’ll definitely want Xiao Lanhua to spend tonight helping me out.”

Xiao Lanhua fantasizes for a moment shoving him into a locker, but just sighs in defeat. “We do have a test tomorrow,” she says. “Rain check on the brainstorming?”

“Absolutely. We’ll talk later.” Changheng looks like he wants to say something else, but when Dongfang Qingcang shoots him a wink, he simply walks out of the classroom.

Shrugging off his arm, Xiao Lanhua turns to face Dongfang Qingcang. “Are you serious? Why would you do that?”

“We need to study. Don’t tell me you won’t help me. Ms. Sansheng won’t like to hear that.”

Xiao Lanhua grumbles under her breath. “Fine. We can go to the library.”

“Nah, I’ll just come to your house.” She opens her mouth to protest but he pushes her towards the doorway. “Let’s go! Going to be late for lunch.”

Dongfang Qingcang makes himself scarce after school, so Xiao Lanhua is hopeful he grew tired of his joke and wouldn’t make her tutor him after all. But when she arrives home, she is surprised to see his motorcycle parked outside and him waiting at the door. “Took you long enough,” he says.

“I had to walk,” she replies lamely. “What’s that?”

“Pizza. Open the door, I’m freezing.”

The scent of sauce and cheese fills the bookstore when she unlocks the door, and Dongfang places the pizza down on the front counter as he takes a look around. “Hey, this place isn’t half bad.” He traces a finger along a stack of books on one of the center tables. “Pretty small though.”

“It’s just used books, so not a lot of inventory. I don’t know where we’d put it anyway.” Lanhua picks up the pizza and gestures for him to follow. “This way.”

She leads him up a set of back stairs to the living area. It’s little more than a kitchen and family room, Siming’s bedroom off to the side of the bathroom. Lanhua places the pizza on the coffee table as she moves to the kitchen area. “Do you want something to drink?”

“No thanks. Where do you sleep?” he asks as he sits on the couch.

Xiao Lanhua leans over to give him a look and Dongfang Qingcang puts up his palms. “Just curious, I swear.”

Grabbing two plates and napkins, she moves back to the family room, sitting on the floor next to the table. “I sleep in here, actually,” she says meekly. “The couch folds out into a bed.”

“It feels comfortable.”

He is being suspiciously nice, but Xiao Lanhua decides not to question it. Instead she grabs a slice of pizza, humming in satisfaction with the first bite. “Thanks for getting this. I was hungry. I didn’t have much at lunch.”

“I noticed. Besides, I owe you dinner, right?”

Xiao Lanhua splutters around her chewing. “What?” she exclaims. “This counts?”

“Why not?” he argues. “I’m feeding you, aren’t I?”

“You said you weren’t a cheap date!” she protests.

“I’m not. You are.” He presses his lips together, leaning out to press his napkin to her mouth. “Now eat up.”

A bit embarrassed, Lanhua uses her napkin quickly, ducking away so he can’t see her heated face. They eat in silence for a bit, and after they’ve both had two slices she finally asks, “Should we work on the review?”

Dongfang Qingcang shrugs, moving to grab his backpack. He takes out his books, and to her surprise joins her on the floor, sitting next to her so their shoulders are nearly touching. Xiao Lanhua adjusts slightly and pulls out her notebook, opening their textbook to some sample questions. “Let’s do the first set and see what we get, okay?” she asks.

He agrees, and they work in silence, the only sound the scratching of pencils on paper. He finishes first, and Xiao Lanhua looks up from her paper in surprise when she is done. “You’re fast!” she says. “But are you right?”

Dongfang Qingcang holds his paper out smugly, and after checking his work sees he has a perfect score. “I had trouble with this one, but you solved it easily,” she smiles, handing him back the paper. “Are you sure you need me to tutor you? I think it’s the other way around.”

He just shrugs, picking up his pencil. “Let’s do a few more to be sure.”

Every round they go, Dongfang Qingcan finishes first and correctly. He even explains a few to Xiao Lanhua, who is impressed by what a good teacher he is as well as his understanding of the material. “I didn’t realize you were such a genius,” she jokes.

“Hey, I’m passing everything.”

“Barely. If you actually put in some effort and turned in work, you’d be a top student. So why don’t you?”

Dongfang Qingcang clears his throat. “No reason. I just don’t feel like it.”

Xiao Lanhua thinks about this for a few moments. Is it possible he’s bored? “How were your grades at Moon Prep?”

He chuckles. “Grades were meaningless there. All that mattered was what your father does and how much your trust fund is.”

“I see.” Xiao Lanhua puts her book aside and draws her knees up, shifting again to face him. “That sounds really unpleasant. And I thought Shuiyuntian Academy—”

She looks up and their eyes connect. Suddenly she realizes how close they are, and Dongfang Qingcang stares back, his eyes wide as they search hers. Several heartbeats go by as they study one another, math forgotten as Xiao Lanhua feels something spark between them. “It sounds tough,” she eventually whispers.

“Yeah.” His eyes dart down to her lips before returning to her face. 

“We should probably…”

“Yeah.”

But neither move, until another minute ticks by and they both seem to shake themselves. Xiao Lanhua quickly clears her throat and picks up her book. “Where were we?”

“Equations.”

“Right.” She huffs impatiently and turns to him again, noticing he’s moved away a few inches. “What’s with you? Really? You have the smarts for this. So why not go for top student?”

“What about you?” he counters. “You’re smart too, but you seem to be content being so… ordinary. Why don’t you go for top student?”

Xiao Lanhua laughs. “There’s no way. No scholarship student has ever made it to the top spot.”

“Is it against the rules?”

She shakes her head. “No. It’s just… not the way things are.”

Dongfang Qingcang laughs humorlessly. “Seems like things should change.”

With a shrug, Xiao Lanhua looks away, picking at something invisible in the carpet. “Maybe when Siming comes back. Then I won’t have to be on scholarship anymore.”

“You’re lucky.” Dongfang Qingcang stretches out, crossing his long legs as he leans back on his arms. “I wish my dad would decide to go travel and not come back. He’s always down my neck.”

“Maybe it’s his way of showing he cares about you?”

“Doubtful. All he wants is for me to be a little mini him.” Dongfang Qingcang makes a face, his lips drawing into a scowl. “He is determined to turn me into his future CEO and keep the company ‘in the family’ like he always says. But that’s not going to be me.”

Xiao Lanhua tilts her head. “What do you want to do then?”

He smiles. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m gonna be a rich CEO one day. Just not the way my dad wants. I’m doing it my way.”

That seems admirable at least, and Xiao Lanhua nods. “It’s good to have a goal. I don’t know what I want to do when I’m done with school.”

“You’re good with plants,” he suggests. “You take care of that orchid like it’s your child.”

“Maybe…” Xiao Lanhua sighs. “Look at us, both with parents doing the opposite of what we’d like.”

Dongfang Qingcang laughs. “We are quite a pair.”

The air turns suddenly awkward, and Dongfang leans forward to grab his book just as Xiao Lanhua grabs her own, moving to kneel up. 

“I should—”

“It’s getting late—”

They both stop, once again inches apart, and Dongfang Qingcang blinks as he studies her face. But Xiao Lanhua can’t help but look at him differently: without a sarcastic look and a thinly-veiled insult, he’s actually pretty nice to hang out with. And handsome.

Quickly shaking herself, she gets busy gathering up the papers that are scattered. What is wrong with her, thinking like that about Dongfang Qingcang of all people? Changheng is the one she likes, not him. Is it possible to like two people at the same time?

“I should probably get going,” he says.

“Yeah,” she replies, a bit disappointed.

They gather up their things and she walks him to the door. “Thanks again for dinner,” she jokes.

“Nah, I’ll get you something real some time.” 

“I’d like that.”

Xiao Lanhua smiles as his brows go up, but just as he goes to leave he turns and says, “Hey, Xiao Lanhua. Watch out for Changheng, okay? There’s something about him I don’t fully trust.”

“That’s funny…”

“What is?”

Xiao Lanhua swallows thickly. She was going to say, he said the same thing about you, but decides against it. “Nothing. It’s just a project. Don’t worry about it.”

“Right.” He hesitates another moment before asking, “Did you get the lamps?”

Xiao Lanhua gasps. “That was you? You bought them?”

“Of course. Who else would it be?”

She shakes her head. “But why?”

“Didn’t I say you’re under my protection? You’ll be of no use to me if you’re worried about failing your classes. I still need your help.”

Not knowing what to say, Lanhua stares at him for a long moment. She smoothes her hand down her new sweater, the excitement of the gift turning spoiled in her stomach. “Wait.” Xiao Lanhua steps towards him with a frown. “You did this so I’d help you with your stupid plan?”

Dongfang Qingcang chuckles humorlessly. “Why else would I help you?”

“I thought…” She swallows back tears that threaten. “I thought you were being kind. I thought we could become friends.” He makes a face, as if confused, and she shakes her head. “I should have known better. You’d only be nice to me because you wanted something.” Xiao Lanhua presses her lips together angrily. “You complain about everyone else using me, but you’re no different!”

“No different?” he snaps. “I’ve never indulged anyone like this—I never bought anyone a gift, or put someone under my protection!”

“But I don’t want it if it just comes with strings attached!” she argues back. 

Dongfang Qingcang looks away, his jaw working slowly. Finally he bites out, “Fine. We aren’t friends. There’s nothing between us.” He jerks his chin to the side. “I don’t have time for anyone anyway.” Before she can stop him, he stalks away and climbs on his motorcycle, and for the first time, Xiao Lanhua wishes he would stay.

Chapter Text

Dongfang Qingcang makes good on his promise. He pointedly ignores her during and between classes, even though he is arriving on time and attending regularly. She tries to share notes with him after History class one day, but is surprised to see he took his own notes the entire class. He no longer visits her during lunch or hangs around her during Horticulture, instead keeping to himself or talking exclusively to Shangque.

Not only is Dongfang Qingcang leaving her alone, so is the rest of the student body. Word gets around quickly that Xiao Lanhua is “under protection,” so no one tries to even talk to her, let alone mess with her. Even her few friends among the other scholarship students keep their conversations brief, as if they are scared to be seen with her. 

As much as Dongfang Qingcang had bothered her these past few weeks, she finds herself missing his presence, his witty comments about others and even his pushy nature. Xiao Lanhua scolds herself for feeling this way, however; it’s best they keep their distance after all. Ms. Sansheng seems pleased at least so Xiao Lanhua decides to put him out of her mind once and for all. But it’s not easy in her new loneliness.

The project due date draws closer, so Lanhua and Changheng make plans to meet after school. He has been busy with school and athletics and leading the student council. 

Xiao Lanhua smooths her hands down her uniform skirt as she cautiously enters the library. Her eyes scan the lobby before she heads to the second floor, where there are tables and chairs for studying among the stacks of books.

There she finds Changheng, and just as she hesitates he spots her and waves her over. Shyly she smiles as she heads towards him, and Changheng even stands to put her bag away when she pulls out a chair. “Glad you made it,” he says. “I know it’s not always convenient for you after school.”

“Oh?” Why would he know that?   

“Ms. Sansheng keeps you busy, right?”

Right. “Sometimes.” She shifts as they share an awkward silence. “Should we get to the project?”

“Yeah! Yes. Definitely.”

He opens his notebook and the two start discussing historical figures, debating the pros and cons of this one or that. Xiao Lanhua relaxes into the conversation, her nerves melting away as Changheng’s easy nature makes her feel at ease. She cracks a joke and he laughs, the sound making her starry-eyed for a moment.

Shaking her head to clear it, she spots someone coming up the steps, and a moment later her mouth drops open to see it is Dongfang Qingcang. She quickly looks away before he makes eye contact, but Changheng spots him too. “What is he doing here?” he asks. 

“I don’t know,” she replies. 

“Do you want me to go tell him to leave?”

“It’s okay,” she says quickly. “He’s probably just here to use the library.”

Changheng looks as skeptical as she feels, so she quickly turns the subject back to their project. But it’s difficult to work feeling two eyes on her the entire time. Yet every time she looks over, Dongfang Qingcang has his head in a book, not looking at them at all.

An hour goes by as they work together, and Xiao Lanhua finds herself relaxing. Changheng is everything she could want in a partner: smart, courteous, open to hear her ideas. They settle on a topic and start listing research options, dividing up the work between them.

“Shall we meet again in a few days?” he asks.

Xiao Lanhua nods eagerly. “That would be great.”

“Can I walk you home?”

The question catches her off guard, and to her own surprise Xiao Lanhua shakes her head. “I think I might stay and get some research done, actually,” she replies.

“Then I’ll stay too. That way I can see you home.”

She hesitates again before nodding. Why not let Changheng take her home? It just doesn’t feel right, especially with Dongfang Qingcang sitting just a few feet away.

Pushing away the confusion, Xiao Lanhua stands and heads into the stacks of books. Changheng heads to the opposite side of the library, and with him gone she can breathe a little easier. Lanhua presses her palms to her heated cheeks. Is it just her crush that is making her act this way? Or something else?

“Hey.”

A voice makes her jump and Xiao Lanhua turns to see Dongfang Qingcang standing behind her. “You done yet?”

“What? No.” Xiao Lanhua shakes her head. “I have some research to do.”

“Don’t take too long. I’ve been waiting an hour for you.”

Frowning, she asks, “Why? Did you need help with something?”

Dongfang Qingcang rolls his eyes. “I take you home, remember? After your last altercation I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to be walking around by yourself.”

“Actually, I’m back to being ignored,” she admits. “You don’t need to worry yourself.”

“Ignored? Not by Changheng.”

Xiao Lanhua feels her cheeks heat again. “We’re just partners. Not that I have to explain anything to you.”

“Yeah, well we were supposed to be partners. Ever think of that?”

With a sigh she turns back to the rows of books. “I thought you didn’t want to be friends?”

“This has nothing to do with that,” he scoffs.

She pulls out a few books, not sure what to say to that. Dongfang Qingcang is as confusing as ever: he doesn’t want to be friends, but he doesn’t seem to want to let go of their relationship either, whatever it had been. Xiao Lanhua thinks of how nice he had been at her place, when he had finally dropped the cold and arrogant veneer and treated her like an equal. If he was like that all the time, then the other students wouldn’t have the wrong idea about him.

“Let me carry those,” he scolds.

Before she can protest Dongfang Qingcang takes her bundle and heads back to the tables. She follows sheepishly, keeping an eye out for Changheng. Unfortunately, he has already returned, and he scowls when Dongfang Qingcang deposits the books on the table without even a greeting.

“Everything okay?” Changheng asks tightly.

“Yes. Dongfang Qingcang was just giving me a hand,” Xiao Lanhua explains with what she hopes is an easy, mild tone.

But Changheng’s frown deepens. “I can help you if you need help. No need to get him involved.”

“He just happened to be there—”

“Don’t talk like that to Xiao Lanhua,” Dongfang Qingcang says sharply. “She can get help from whomever she wants to!”

“Dongfang—”

“Yes she can,” Changheng says tightly. “Except from you.”

“What does that mean?”

“Changheng—”

“You know exactly what I mean.” Changheng comes around the table, approaching Dongfang Qingcang with fists clenched. “I want you to stay away from Xiao Lanhua. You don’t need to talk to her outside of class.”

Dongfang Qingcang laughs derisively. “You think you can threaten me?”

Changheng moves just inches away, but Xiao Lanhua gets between them before anything can happen. “Stop!” she exclaims. “There’s no reason to argue.”

“Do you hear how he talks about you?” Dongfang Qingcang argues. “He’s just like everyone else, thinking you’re beneath him.”

“Take that back!” Changheng hisses.

He reaches out to push Dongfang Qingcang, but knocks against Xiao Lanhua as he makes contact with his shoulder. Xiao Lanhua gives a little yelp as she goes off balance, but Dongfang Qingcang quickly grabs her by the arms and keeps her from falling. Angry now, he pushes her aside, and gives Changheng a hard push in the chest, sending him crashing back against the table.

With a loud curse Changheng charges, and the two boys scuffle as Xiao Lanhua watches in horror. “Stop! Stop it!” she cries, but neither pay attention. They get locked into a shoving match, yelling at each other and causing enough of a scene that other students come hurrying over to see the fight.

“Is that Changheng and Dongfang Qingcang?” someone says excitedly. Xiao Lanhua winces as she sees a few students take out their cell phones. The two bang against the table again, sending a pile of books cascading to the floor. The noise distracts Changheng, and when he looks over Dongfang Qingcang manages to land the first punch against his jaw.

Changheng stumbles, and Xiao Lanhua jumps forward, grabbing Dongfang Qingcang’s arm. “Stop, please!” she pleads, and he pauses, his face red as he looks down at her.

He is tense under her grip but begins to relax as Changheng struggles back to his feet. “Enough,” she says firmly, letting go of Dongfang so she can take a look at Changheng’s face. Just as the two look as though they may continue the fight, the librarian arrives, pushing through the students to see what the commotion is.

“You two! Fighting in my library!” She puts her hands on her hips and scowls. “I’ll be writing you both up and referring you to Principal Yunzhong,” she says.

Xiao Lanhua bites her lips. No one sees Yunzhong unless you’ve done something particularly wrong. “Miss, it was just a misunderstanding—”

“Watch it, Xiao Lanhua, or you’ll get a referral too.” She looks around at the crowd and waves a hand. “Everyone back to work. You three, time to go straight home.”

The students slowly disperse as Xiao Lanhua turns back to Changheng. “Are you all right?”

“Yeah. Nothing he can do to hurt me.” Changheng winces a bit. “I’m sorry. That got out of hand.”

Xiao Lanhua glares at Changheng with a stern look. “You didn’t need to escalate that. Dongfang Qingcang didn’t do anything wrong.”

“How can you defend him?” Changheng asks in annoyance. 

“He hasn’t done anything to me or anyone else,” Xiao Lanhua responds. “And yet everyone treats him like some kind of criminal.” She takes a deep breath. “I know how that feels.”

“Xiao Lanhua.” Dongfang Qingcang’s voice is stern behind her. “Let’s go.”

“No.” She turns to look at Dongfang. “Just go home. I can get there myself.”

“So you’ll stay with him?” Dongfang Qingcang accuses. “Taking his side?”

Xiao Lanhua makes a face. “No, I’m angry with both of you! Now go before you get us all into more trouble!”

Dongfang Qingcang mutters under his breath, but he returns to his table to snatch up his bag and heads out. 

“Xiao Lanhua…”

Not wanting to hear any more, she grabs her things and walks away, tears brimming behind her lashes. 

Dongfang Qingcang is waiting for her outside, and when she exits he hurries to walk next to her. Xiao Lanhua tries to ignore him, but he takes her by the wrist, stopping her. “Did you mean that?”

“Of course,” she says.

“Then you’ll help me?” 

Xiao Lanhua stops, turning to him to grab his hands. “Can’t you forget this plan of yours? Any more trouble and you’ll have to leave Shuiyuntian!”

“Do you like him that much, Xiao Lanhua?” Dongfang Qingcang murmurs. “Can’t you give up your loyalty to him for me?”

“Can’t you give up this plan to ruin his reputation for me?”

Dongfang Qingcang pulls his hands away, turning without a word and stalking away. Xiao Lanhua watches him go, feeling her heart heavy in her chest.

The fight between Changheng and Dongfang Qingcang is all over school by the next morning. Several people actually try to ask her for more information, but Xiao Lanhua just ignores the questions and buries her nose in her book. Dongfang Qingcang does not report to their first class, but she is sure he is probably at the office with Changheng. 

He doesn’t arrive at History, but Changheng does, sending her a sheepish look before sliding quietly into his seat. Worried now, she tries to get his attention, but he keeps his eyes straight ahead as the other students whisper around them.

At the end of the class, Xiao Lanhua hurries to Changheng. “What happened?” she asks anxiously.

Changheng shakes his head. “We both had to see Yunzhong, but he kept Dongfang Qingcang. He sent me back to class.”

“And he’s still there?” Xiao Lanhua wrings her hands, not knowing what to do. It’s not fair if Dongfang Qingcang takes all the blame, especially since he was defending her, in his own way.

Danyin walks up, flanked by several of the other girls. “Xiao Lanhua,” she says sharply. “Are you not going to be satisfied until you get Changheng expelled?”

“What?” she asks.

“He only got into that fight because of you. Just because you’re partners, don’t think that you’re anything special.”

Changheng clears his throat. “Hey. Back off, Danyin.”

“I’m only looking out for you,” she says. “Hanging around Xiao Lanhua is trouble. She’s friends with Dongfang Qingcang. What more evidence do you need?”

Xiao Lanhua’s fists tighten as anger bubbles. “Yes, I am friends with him!” she exclaims. “So what? You can bully me all you want, but don’t speak badly about him! He didn’t do anything wrong!”

Danyin looks shocked as the other girls look at one another. “Are you going to let her talk to me like that, Changheng?” she huffs.

“Changheng was the one who started the fight,” Xiao Lanhua insists. “In fact, I’m on my way to Professor Yunzhong right now to set the record straight.”

She pushes through the group of glaring students, practically running through the hallways and ignoring the stares of the few others who are moving between classes. She reaches the main office and bursts inside, not stopping when Ms. Sansheng calls her name and heading straight for the principal’s office.

Opening the door without knocking, she finds Dongfang Qingcang standing in front of the desk, Professor Yunzhong sitting behind it and looking stern. They both look at her in surprise when she enters, nearly stumbling as she hurries to the desk.

“Professor Yunzhong,” she says, a bit out of breath. “Please, you have to listen.”

“I’ve heard all I need to know about the incident,” he replies. “Ms. Sansheng told me you were there, and you’ve been assisting with Dongfang Qingcang. Your duties are now over, as he is returning to Moon Prep.”

She looks at Dongfang Qingcang in shock. Dongfang’s face is red, and he says through gritted teeth, “And I’ve asked to stay, although Professor Yunzhong seems set.”

“We can’t have this kind of behavior at Shuiyuntian Academy.”

Xiao Lanhua shakes her head. “But Changheng is just as much to blame. If anything, he started the argument. Dongfang Qingcang was just trying to protect me. He had saved me from some bullies earlier and—”

Yunzhong interrupts her with a wave of his hand. “I’m not interested in hearing any more. I’ve made my decision.”

“Please,” she pleads. “It’s not fair.”

“It’s not worth it, Xiao Lanhua,” Dongfang Qingcang says quietly. “Don’t get yourself into trouble too.”

“No!” she exclaims. Xiao Lanhua steps in front of Dongfang Qingcang and holds out her arms, as if shielding him. “I won’t let this injustice happen. Dongfang Qingcang fought with Changheng, that’s true. But you didn’t see what happened beforehand. And you haven’t seen how everyone has been treating Dongfang Qingcang since he arrived at Shuiyuntian!”

The door opens and Changheng walks in, freezing when he sees Xiao Lanhua. “What are you doing?” he asks, quickly striding over. “You shouldn’t be here!”

“I’m not going anywhere until I know Dongfang Qingcang isn’t being sent back to Moon Prep,” Xiao Lanhua says firmly.

Changheng makes a face, but then turns to the principal. “Sir,” he says, “I am here to take the blame for the incident in the library.”

“Changheng,” Yunzhong warns, “you have already been cleared of any wrongdoing.”

“But I am responsible for the fight,” he says, glancing at Dongfang Qingcang. “If you seek to punish him, then it’s only right that I am punished as well.”

“Dongfang Qingcang is returning to Moon Prep,” Yunzhong says. “Are you looking to be dismissed from school as well?”

Changheng takes a deep breath. “If that’s what you decide, sir,” he replies.

Yunzhong looks unhappy as he turns a bit in his chair. “I can’t lose my top student, so if you are going to insist on taking blame, then I suppose I can’t expel Dongfang Qingcang either.” He points at them both. “You are both to serve a week’s worth of detention. And if I hear of anything further between the two of you, no amount of pleading will help.”

He dismisses them immediately, and the three leave the office. Xiao Lanhua breathes a sigh of relief, but stops both of them before they can leave. “You heard what he said,” she warns. “No more arguing or fighting.”

Changheng gives Dongfang Qingcang a scowl. “Come back with me, Xiao Lanhua. I know the other students have been giving you a problem, but I’ll make sure it stops. I promise.”

Xiao Lanhua shakes her head. “Dongfang Qingcang defended me when I needed it most. I won’t just abandon him and pretend we aren’t friends.”

Dongfang Qingcang looks at her in surprise. Changheng shakes his head but doesn’t argue, heading out of the office. Xiao Lanhua glances at Dongfang Qingcang, who is watching her curiously. “Why did you stand up for me in front of Yunzhong?”

Xiao Lanhua glances down. “You stood up for me before. It’s only fair that I return the favor.”

“So I owe you now, is that it?”

Quickly she looks him in the face and shakes her head. “No, that’s not it at all! It had nothing to do with it, I swear.”

“Why then?”

“Well you… I mean, it wasn’t fair. Changheng pushed you first. You weren’t doing anything wrong, but you were going to take the blame for everything.”

He steps closer, and Xiao Lanhua’s head tilts back as she looks up into his face. He studies her for a long moment, and she has the sudden realization that when he is quiet and serious like this, she finds him rather handsome. “Is that the only reason?” he murmurs.

Her eyes fall to his mouth, thinking of his lips on hers not once, but twice. Both times were unexpected, but what if he kissed her again? Does she want that? Her own lips part as her eyes slide back to his, and as he waits for an answer she notices that he’s taken her hand.

“Maybe not… the only reason…”

He leans closer, and Xiao Lanhua tilts her chin up, her eyes closing slowly. She feels just the faintest brush of flesh against flesh when a clearing throat stops them both in their tracks.

Ms. Sansheng is looking at them both with a scowl. “Get to class,” she snaps, and quickly they hurry from the office, holding hands on the way to class.

Chapter Text

The day of the project arrives, and Xiao Lanhua is nervous to give their presentation. It all goes easily, however, and she beams with pride as the other students clap at the end of their talk. Of course, nothing less would be expected from Changheng, and he gives her a sheepish smile when they are finished and heading back to their seats.

At the end of the day she stops at her locker, and as she gathers her things Changheng finds her there.

“Xiao Lanhua,” he says, “can I ask you something?”

“Hm?” She looks at him curiously. They haven’t spoken much since their presentation, and she had honestly figured that he decided she wasn’t worth the trouble to befriend. 

“Sure, what do you—”

“Xiao Lanhua.” Dongfang Qingcang walks up, shooting a hard look at Changheng. “You ready to go?”

“Um…” Xiao Lanhua decides that she should hear Changheng out first, so she says, “I need to talk to Changheng.”

Dongfang Qingcang scowls. “Now that your project is over, there’s no need for you to talk.”

“Xiao Lanhua can talk to whomever she wants,” Changheng protests. “She’s not going to be bossed around anymore.”

Dongfang Qingcang looks as though he is considering it, although Xiao Lanhua worries they will start arguing again. Quickly she interjects, “I wish the two of you would stop all this. I think if you tried, you could become friends.”

“Not hardly,” Dongfang Qingcang says, just as Chengheng replies, “No way.”

The two boys look at each other. “I’m taking your top spot,” Dongfang Qingcang warns. “I’m going to be the number one student at Shuiyuntian.”

Changheng chuckles. “Then I guess it’s on between us. May the best student win.”

Xiao Lanhua smiles. “Can you give us a few minutes?” she asks Dongfang Qingcang. “I’d like to talk to Changheng.” 

He gives a pout but nods and steps away, out of earshot. He paces a bit, watching them as they talk, the rest of the room deserted except for them.

Changheng takes a deep breath.“I know what you’ve been through, with the other students. And I’m sorry. I should have stood up for you sooner. I should have put a stop to it. I’ve been so concerned about my status in school that I forgot what is important. It’s not just rules and grades, my friends are important too.”

“It’s okay.” She thinks of Dongfang Qingcang standing between her and the other students and smiles. “I have a protector now. But I think I can stand up for myself from now on.”

“There’s something you need to know,” he continues. “I like you, Xiao Lanhua.”

His confession makes her heart leap into her throat. This is exactly the moment she had always wanted, but why does it feel unnatural? “You like me?” she echoes.

He nods. “I like you a lot. I know that you’re a scholarship student and I’m not. I promise I’ll protect you from that from now on. Can you say that you like me too?”

Xiao Lanhua looks down at her hands, which she squeezes together nervously. “Changheng… I think you’re wonderful. I’ve always admired you. And when you invited me to Homecoming, it was the best thing that’s ever happened to me. But…” She looks up to meet his eyes, which are studying hers intently. “I like you as a friend, and I hope we can continue to be friends. But I think you should find someone who will like you back.”

His face falls, but to his credit Changheng nods. “I understand. Yes, we can be friends. I’d like that.”

Xiao Lanhua smiles. He gives her an awkward pat on the arm before turning and walking away, pointedly not making eye contact with Dongfang Qingcang. Dongfang watches him go before walking over, his arms crossed. “What did you talk about?” he asks.

She shoots him a glance but doesn’t respond. “Fine,” he finally relents. “Ready to go?”

Xiao Lanhua sighs. “You know that hanging around with me isn't going to help you make any friends. Now that you want to be a top student, the others are going to be watching everything. Being seen with a scholarship student like me—”

“Now you're just being ridiculous,” he says. “I don't want to be friends with those others. And you're more than just a scholarship student. You're the reason why I'm even passing any of my classes. And where else am I going to find a stubborn, gullible, busybody girl to like?”

Xiao Lanhua stairs at him in shock as he chuckles. Pushing her hair back behind her ear she asks, “Do you really mean it?”

Dongfang Qingcang rolls his eyes. “Yes. Are you ready to go yet?”

“My legs are tired,” she sighs. “We’ve been walking around all day. I don’t know how I’m going to walk home.”

“Too tired?” 

He takes her by the hand, and Xiao Lanhua nods. “I could fall asleep on my feet.”

Dongang Qingcang nods. Then he tugs on her arm, pulling her across his back as she gives a yelp of surprise.“Well good thing I brought the bike today,” he says, carrying her as he begins to walk. Xiao Lanhua laughs as they head out, the familiar feel of his leather jacket comforting as she wraps her arms around his shoulders.

The afternoon is a comfortable cool, and Dongfang Qingcang offers his jacket, which she declines. Xiao Lanhua climbs on the back of the motorcycle, now comfortable after so many trips on it. He shoots her a grin as he starts the motor, and Xiao Lanhua smiles back.

They arrive at Arbiter Hall, and unlike most afternoons when Dongfang Qingcang would bid her goodbye and leave, he hesitates and climbs off the bike. “I have something to give you,” he says.

“You do?”

Dongfang Qingcang nods. He reaches for her hand, and then takes off his ring from his second finger. “This is my ring from Moon Prep,” he says. “I want you to have it.”

“What? Why?” she exclaims. “This is important to you.”

Dongfang Qingcang shakes his head. “I’m not going back to Moon Prep after the exchange is over. I talked to Professor Yuzhong. If my father won’t pay for Shuiyuntian, then I’ll do a work study.” He smiles as he places the ring in her palm.. “Looks like I’m the next scholarship student.”

Xiao Lanhua stares at the ring, at a loss for words. “You’re giving this to me?” she asks.

“Of course. And I have something to ask you, too.”

“Wait,” she says. He closes his mouth as she reaches into her pocket. “I have something to ask you too.”

“Can’t it wait?”

“No, mine is more important,” she huffs. “Can I go first?”

Inside her pocket, she finds the bracelet she had made the night before. Her fingers trace along the weaved string before she pulls it out. “I made this myself.”

Xiao Lanhua holds it up, and Dongfang Qingcang looks confused. “What’s—”

“It’s a friendship bracelet. I made it for you.” She takes his hand and turns it so his palm is up. Then she wraps the bracelet around his wrist, tying it securely. Her fingers trace along his warm skin as she smiles. “Although, I want to be more than friends. Dongfang Qingcang, will you be my boyfriend?”

He stares at her for a long moment, and Xiao Lanhua hurries to say, “I promise you’re the only one I like. I want to be with you. I promise I will treat you well.”

His fingers close around the bracelet and Xiao Lanhua frowns. “Do you not want to?”

Instead of answering, he gives her a smile. Xiao Lanhua sighs and steps towards him, and his hands move to her waist, pulling her closer. Behind him, the sunset leaves the sky in a brilliant shade of orange and yellow, but in this moment, she can only see him as her arms slide up and around his neck.

The spring formal is in full swing, students milling about the large meeting room that has been decorated for the occasion. The theme is the Moon Festival, the student council taking the idea from their field trip to Lucheng. Paper moons and stars hang from the ceiling, and tables are covered in celestial themed centerpieces. A band plays as students move on and off the dance floor or get in line for pictures in front of the full moon backdrop.

Xiao Lanhua had feared at first that she would have to ride on the back of Dongfang Qingcang’s motorcycle in her dress, but luckily he hired a car to pick her up. He helps her from the car when they arrive, her long blue dress shimmering under the lights as they head inside. Dongfang is wearing a suit, sans his usual leather jacket, and Xiao Lanhua can’t help but think of how handsome he looks.

Students call greetings to the couple as they walk towards their table. As Xiao Lanhua had expected, once Dongfang Qingcang dropped the chip on his shoulder and actually applied himself to classes, he quickly rose to the top and became one of the most popular students in school. A few call to her as well; being the girlfriend of the Dongfang Qingcang having helped her own social status. It still feels strange to not be completely ignored, but with her boyfriend at her side, Xiao Lanhua feels confident enough.

Shangque and Jieli are already there, and he is pulling her to the dance floor as she protests. “I can’t dance, dummy!” she groans as he tugs on her arm.

“What’s there to know?” Shangque grins. “Just move with the music!” As if to demonstrate, he does a swaying motion with his hips, making Xiao Lanhua burst into laughter.

“Go make him happy,” she says, pushing Jieli towards Shangque so he can drag her onto the dance floor.

“Do you want to dance?” Dongfang Qingcang asks.

“Not yet,” she answers. “I want to just take things in for now.”

They chat as other students stop by to say hello, and then they go to get drinks from the refreshment stand. It seems like the entire school has turned out, and Xiao Lanhua is pleased to see other scholarship students are there too. It seems like her acceptance has made it easier for the others, and for that she is glad.

“Is that Xunfeng and Danyin?” Xiao Lanhua gasps, tugging on Dongfang Qingcang’s arm.

He puts down his cup and looks where she is pointing. Sure enough, the two of them walk into the formal arm in arm. “I wondered who he was coming with. He was being pretty shady about it.”

“I never thought I’d see the day Danyin would be seen with a Moon Prep student.”

“Hey, we’re not all bad,” he jokes, sliding his arm around her waist.

They head next to get their picture taken, standing formally in front of the backdrop. After filling out the form they decide to dance, and after joining Shangque and Jieli for a few numbers go to take a break.

“Here, come look at this,” he says.

Xiao Lanhua catches her breath as he takes her towards the back of the room. There is a large piece of fencing attached to the wall, locks hanging from the wires. “Oh wow!” Xiao Lanhua exclaims. “What is this?”

“Part of the Moon Festival,” he explains. “You take a lock and write the name of the person you like, then put it on the fence. Then you’re supposed to be together forever.”

He smiles as he moves to the fence. Grabbing a lock, he quickly etches Xiao Lanhua’s name on the side before he slips it around a piece of the gate, locking it tightly. They stand together and admire it for a moment, their hands linking together.

Xiao Lanhua sighs. “Out of all the girls in school—”

“Out of all the girls in school, there is only one Xiao Lanhua,” he admonishes her. “Now let’s go dance.”

The rest of the evening is a blur of fun, dancing and laughing with friends. But as the evening draws to a close, the final event arrives: the crowning of the formal’s king and queen.

Ms. Sansheng gets up on the stage and calls for attention on the microphone. “This is it,” Dongfang Qingcang says excitedly. “I’m finally going to take my place as the top student in the school.”

“What?” Xiao Lanhua looks at him in shock. “Don’t tell me you nominated us for this!”

“Of course I did,” he scoffs. “What other couple can compare to us?”

Xiao Lanhua groans internally, wondering if it’s too late to make herself scarce. Being friendly and talking to everyone now is one thing. Getting up in front of the entire school is another.

“And our king and queen this year… Changheng and Danyin!”

The students applaud as both Changheng and Danyin make their way to the stage. Xunfeng looks angry, his arms folded as he glares at the two on the stage. Xiao Lanhua covers her mouth as she giggles: he must really like her.

She notices Dongfang Qingcang pouting and pats his arm. “Don’t worry,” she says. “Next year you’ll be king, I know it.”

“As long as you’re the queen,” he replies. Xiao Lanhua smiles as he turns towards her, pulling her close and pressing his mouth against hers in a sweet kiss.