A youthful ten-year promise

Chapter 71 Planning and Execution

The opportunity for reunion

Time flies, and another autumn has arrived. Shen Yichen and Lin Youran's studio has established itself in the literary world. Their works are not only loved by readers but have also won recognition from industry professionals. However, with the success of their careers, their lives have become increasingly busy, often requiring them to work overtime until late at night, and sometimes they don't even see each other for several days in a row.

That evening, Shen Yichen was revising a novel that was about to be published in his study when he suddenly received an unexpected phone call. A familiar yet unfamiliar voice came from the other end: "Yichen, it's me, Su Yao."

Su Yao was Shen Yichen and Lin Youran's high school classmate, and a shared memory of their youth. Back then, Su Yao, Shen Yichen, and Lin Youran were very close, often studying and playing together. However, after the college entrance exams, they chose different paths and gradually lost contact.

Hearing Su Yao's name, Shen Yichen felt a surge of emotion. He tried to keep his voice calm: "Su Yao, long time no see. Why are you calling all of a sudden?"

Su Yao chuckled softly on the other end of the phone: "Yes, it's been a long time. Actually, I've been on a business trip nearby recently, and I was thinking of coming to see you. I was wondering if it would be convenient for you?"

Shen Yichen was slightly taken aback, then nodded: "Of course it's convenient. You Ran will definitely be happy to see you."

After hanging up the phone, Shen Yichen's feelings became somewhat complicated. He didn't know how Su Yao's arrival would affect his relationship with Lin Youran, but he knew he had to face everything honestly.

The joy and awkwardness of the reunion

The next afternoon, Su Yao arrived at Shen Yichen and Lin Youran's house on time. She was wearing a simple and elegant white dress, her long hair was draped over her shoulders, and she had a warm smile on her face.

As soon as Lin Youran saw Su Yao, she excitedly ran over and gave her a big hug: "Su Yao! Is it really you? Long time no see, you've become even more beautiful!"

Su Yao replied with a smile, "You Ran, you're the same. We've both changed a lot."

Shen Yichen stood to the side, watching the two women talk intimately, feeling both gratified and slightly disappointed. He understood that his love with Lin Youran had withstood the test of time, but he couldn't help worrying whether Su Yao's appearance would cause subtle changes in their relationship.

At dinner, the three sat around the table, eating and chatting. They talked about fun things that happened in high school and shared their experiences and growth over the years. Shen Yichen and Lin Youran discovered that although Su Yao was no longer the naive girl she once was, she still retained her innocence and kindness.

However, as the topic gradually shifted to personal feelings, the atmosphere suddenly became somewhat awkward. Su Yao glanced at Shen Yichen, then at Lin Youran, and said softly, "Actually, I've never forgotten you two. Back then, I was really envious of the relationship between you."

Shen Yichen and Lin Youran exchanged a smile, both understanding the meaning behind Su Yao's words. They were grateful for Su Yao's honesty and for not ruining their relationship back then.

Fragments of Memories

After dinner, Lin Youran suggested looking through photos and videos from their high school days. So, the three of them sat in the living room and opened the hard drive that had been gathering dust for a long time.

On the screen, familiar faces appeared one after another. They saw their own youthful selves, and they also saw the wonderful times they had spent together. Shen Yichen and Lin Youran were filled with emotion, while Su Yao was also lost in deep memories.

When a video about the graduation ceremony played, Su Yao suddenly stopped using the remote control, her eyes slightly reddening: "Do you all remember? We promised each other that we would come back here together ten years later to see how we've changed."

Shen Yichen and Lin Youran exchanged a smile, a warm feeling welling up in their hearts. They remembered their promise and had always worked hard to keep it. Despite the many trials and tribulations they had experienced over the years, their pure friendship and love remained unchanged.

“Actually, I’ve been waiting for this opportunity all along,” Su Yao continued. “I wanted to see if you still remembered that promise, and if you still held onto that original intention.”

Shen Yichen and Lin Youran held each other's hands tightly, answering Su Yao's question with their actions. They knew that no matter how time changed, the feelings between them would never change.

An honest dialogue

As night deepened, Su Yao suggested returning to her hotel to rest. Shen Yichen and Lin Youran escorted her to the door, watching her departing figure, their hearts filled with mixed emotions.

Back in the living room, Shen Yichen finally couldn't help but ask, "You Ran, are you worried about something?"

Lin Youran nodded gently: "Actually, I'm a little worried too. After all, Su Yao is our mutual friend, and her appearance might complicate our relationship."

Shen Yichen hugged Lin Youran tightly: "Youran, you have to believe in our relationship. We've been through so much to get to where we are today, and we won't give up so easily because of Su Yao."

Lin Youran looked up at Shen Yichen's resolute eyes, and a warm feeling welled up in her heart. She understood that Shen Yichen was speaking from the heart; their love was strong enough to withstand any storm.

“Furthermore,” Shen Yichen continued, “we can find an opportunity to have a good talk with Su Yao and tell her our thoughts. I believe she will understand us.”

Lin Youran nodded, her heart filled with gratitude. She knew that Shen Yichen always offered her support and comfort when she needed it most. This love made her feel incredibly happy and fulfilled.

The gift of time

A few days later, Shen Yichen and Lin Youran invited Su Yao to their studio. They prepared a cozy afternoon tea, intending to have a good chat with Su Yao.

The three sat in the studio's lounge area, chatting and drinking tea. Shen Yichen and Lin Youran expressed their gratitude to Su Yao and candidly shared their love and future plans.

As Su Yao listened to their stories, her eyes shone with emotion. She understood that her choice back then was the right one. She wished Shen Yichen and Lin Youran a long and happy life together, and thanked them for helping her rediscover that pure friendship.

“Actually,” Su Yao suddenly spoke up, “I have another purpose for coming here this time. I want to tell you that I have found my own happiness. He is a very good person, and we plan to get married next year.”

Upon hearing this, Shen Yichen and Lin Youran both smiled sincerely. They were happy for Su Yao and gratified to be able to witness her happiness.

"That's wonderful!" Lin Youran excitedly grasped Su Yao's hand. "You absolutely must invite us to your wedding!"

Su Yao smiled and nodded: "Of course I'll invite you. You absolutely must come!"

The three exchanged a smile, their hearts filled with anticipation and hope for the future. They knew that no matter how time changed, their friendship and love would remain as warm and enduring as this cup of tea.