A youthful ten-year promise

Chapter 21 The Sweetness of First Love

University life flies by like an arrow; in the blink of an eye, Shen Yichen and Lin Youran have entered their junior year. This year, they face unprecedented challenges and opportunities, and it is against this backdrop that their relationship undergoes a subtle change.

Shen Yichen made increasing progress in his law studies, achieving excellent results in various legal competitions and actively participating in social practice activities, attempting to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience. His efforts were widely recognized by the faculty and students, and several senior professors even began to mention his potential as a rising star in the legal field. However, Shen Yichen knew that the real test was yet to come; the path of law was long and arduous, and he must remain humble and diligent to go further on this path.

In contrast, Lin Youran experienced a minor slump in her writing career. Although her works still managed to secure a place in some literary magazines, she gradually felt an indescribable emptiness and confusion. She began to reflect on whether she was truly suited for this lonely and uncertain path of writing. Whenever the night was quiet, Lin Youran would pick up her pen, yet find herself unable to write the first word on the blank manuscript paper. That love and struggle with words caused her both pain and helplessness.

"You Ran, you seem to have something on your mind lately." After one evening self-study session, Shen Yichen saw Lin You Ran sitting alone in a corner of the library with a serious expression, so he asked softly.

Lin Youran looked up and forced a smile: "It's nothing, I'm just a little tired. Maybe I've hit a creative block."

Shen Yichen nodded gently. He knew Lin Youran's difficulties, but he also understood that at this moment, any words of comfort might seem pale and powerless. So, he suggested, "How about we go for a walk? Maybe a change of scenery will make us feel better."

Lin Youran didn't refuse, and the two walked side by side along the campus path. A gentle night breeze carried a slight chill. Shen Yichen spoke of his aspirations and plans for a career in law, while Lin Youran listened quietly, occasionally nodding in response. However, her mind was clearly elsewhere; she was more concerned with how to overcome her current creative slump.

Just then, unexpected news shattered Lin Youran's tranquility. The school's literary society had received a call for submissions from a renowned literary magazine, with the theme "Youth and Dreams." This theme touched a nerve deep within Lin Youran, as if she saw a glimmer of hope for breaking through her current limitations. However, she also knew that this was an opportunity not to be missed, but also a tremendous challenge.

"Yichen, I want to participate in this call for submissions." Lin Youran revealed her decision to Shen Yichen during a dinner.

Upon hearing this, Shen Yichen's eyes flashed with surprise: "Really? You Ran, that's a great idea! I believe you can definitely write a moving piece."

Lin Youran smiled slightly, but her heart was filled with mixed feelings. She knew that this creative work was not only about personal honor, but also an important test of her writing ability. Therefore, she decided to devote herself wholeheartedly to this project, and no matter the outcome, she wanted to give herself an explanation.

In the days that followed, Lin Youran devoted almost all her spare time to writing. She repeatedly conceived and revised her work, striving to ensure that every word accurately conveyed her emotions and thoughts. Shen Yichen, on the other hand, silently supported her, becoming Lin Youran's strongest backing through late-night companionship and occasional bursts of inspiration.

Just one day before the deadline, Lin Youran finally finished her work—"The Place Where Dreams Begin." This article tells her reflections on youth, her pursuit of dreams, and her aspirations for the future. Every word is imbued with her hard work and dedication, and also carries her gratitude and reliance on Shen Yichen.

After submitting her work, Lin Youran felt incredibly conflicted. She both hoped for recognition and feared failure. Shen Yichen, however, remained optimistic, constantly encouraging her: "Youran, no matter the outcome, you've done your best. And I believe your talent will definitely be rewarded."

A month later, a letter from a literary magazine quietly appeared in Lin Youran's inbox. When her hands trembled as she opened the envelope and saw the paper bearing the words "Offer of Acceptance," tears instantly blurred her vision. At that moment, all her efforts and perseverance were given their best proof.

"Yichen, I did it!" Lin Youran excitedly ran to Shen Yichen to share this hard-won honor with him.

Shen Yichen held Lin Youran's hand tightly, his eyes filled with pride and joy: "I knew you could do it, Youran. You did it, you really did it!"

This success not only restored Lin Youran's confidence in writing but also deepened their relationship. They shared the joys and hardships of creation, and witnessed each other's growth and transformation. In the days to come, no matter what challenges and difficulties they face, they will work hand in hand to write their own chapter of youth.

As Lin Youran's works gradually gain recognition in the literary world, Shen Yichen also makes significant progress in the legal field. They each go further and further down their respective paths to their dreams, yet they never forget each other's companionship and support. This youthful ten-year promise is quietly blossoming into its most vibrant form.