After Li Yunlan and Zhou Zhennan left, life settled into a peaceful rhythm for Lin Xiaoxiao and Zhou Huai'an. Next door, Zhang Yimei's household was as lively as ever.

The old lady no longer dared to pick fights with Lin Xiaoxiao—not even veiled criticisms. Mostly because Lin Xiaoxiao wasn't afraid to stand her ground.

Between work, studying, and secretly working on translation projects, Lin Xiaoxiao kept busy. At night, she'd put Zhou Huai'an to work rubbing her feet or massaging her shoulders—though things often took a less-than-innocent turn.

Last night had been another late one, and now Lin Xiaoxiao could barely keep her eyes open at the office. The words in her book swam in blurry pairs.

She couldn't help but admire Xiao Yan across from her, already deep into math textbooks and solving equations daily. It pushed Lin Xiaoxiao to keep up her own pace.

Rubbing her eyes, she went to pour a cup of hot water and dropped in a few tea leaves, hoping to refresh herself. She didn't dare study openly in front of Xiao Yan, so she silently rehearsed formulas and political theory in her head.

Just as her tea was ready, Director Chen walked in smiling. "Xiaoxiao, Xiao Yan, I'd like you two to prepare a performance for the event at the Second Institute on August 15."

Xiao Yan spoke up, "But today's already August 3. Isn't that too short notice?"

Lin Xiaoxiao, still half in a daze, suddenly snapped alert at the mention of the date. August 3... She'd forgotten something important. Her period was late.

A cold dread washed over her. That night when Zhou Huai'an lost control... they hadn't used protection. Could she be pregnant?

It hadn't even been a full month, but a missed period was a strong sign. And she'd been feeling slight cramps recently—maybe implantation.

The more she thought about it, the more panicked she felt. Could it really happen this fast?

Director Chen noticed her pale, stunned expression and mistook it for stage fright. "Don't worry, Xiaoxiao. You two can just sing a song. You listen to the radio every day—pick something from there."

Xiao Yan shot Lin Xiaoxiao a smug look and agreed readily. "No problem. I've been learning a new song lately."

"Good," Director Chen said, pleased. "Work with Xiaoxiao on a duet, then." With a final nod, he left.

But Lin Xiaoxiao was still reeling. If she really was pregnant, what would she do? An abortion was out of the question—not only was it dangerous, it felt deeply irresponsible. But having a baby now? Her career was still uncertain, and she had no experience with children.

And if she had a child, could she even go back? The more she thought, the more frustrated and anxious she became.

Xiao Yan, completely oblivious, was already imagining herself shining on stage. Cheerfully putting her book away, she said, "Have you heard 'Spring in the North'? I have a tape you can borrow. We can practice together."

Lin Xiaoxiao ignored her, thoughts still tangled. If she was pregnant, how would she manage in

these conditions? What about university? The weight of it made her want to cry.

When Xiao Yan pressed again—"We're supposed to do a duet. If you don't know it, you'd better

learn fast. Don't embarrass us on stage."—Lin Xiaoxiao finally snapped.

"I didn't know you could sing," she said coldly. "Seems like a waste you're stuck here as a

doctor.

You belong on stage."

Xiao Yan flushed with anger. "I was trying to help! What's wrong with you?"

Lin Xiaoxiao smirked without humor. "Thanks for your help. Don't worry—I won't ruin your moment."

Xiao Yan sputtered, then stormed out. Arguing with Lin Xiaoxiao was a losing battle.

Distracted and uneasy, Lin Xiaoxiao threw herself into her rounds. At least work kept her mind off things.

At lunch, she considered skipping going home and just eating at the cafeteria. But then Zhou Huai'an showed up.

One look at the man responsible for her potential predicament, and her mood soured even more. She scowled and refused to acknowledge him.

Zhou Huai'an was baffled. She'd been fine that morning. "Did something happen at work?" he asked carefully.

"You happened," she retorted.

He wracked his brain but came up empty. Afraid of making it worse, he stood quietly in front of her, saying nothing.

Here was a man usually sharp and composed, now rendered clumsy and silent in front of her—like a boy who didn't know what he'd done wrong.

Her heart softened. She reached for his hand. "What are you doing here?"

He glanced around and lowered his voice. "Lin Zihao confirmed it. The college entrance exams will be reinstated this winter. The official notice will be published in the next few days. They're encouraging all eligible young people to apply."

"Really?!"

All her worries forgotten, Lin Xiaoxiao nearly jumped for joy. Remembering they were still at the clinic, she hurriedly pulled Zhou Huai'an outside.

Once they reached the road, she burst out, "So I can sign up?"

Zhou Huai'an nodded. "Should be possible. Lin Zihao said there'll be no age or professional restrictions. Voluntary registration, grassroots recommendation, and school review. If you pass, you can take the exam."

For many educated youth in the villages, the "recommendation" part could be a hurdle—their fate often rested in the hands of local officials. But for Lin Xiaoxiao, it was no issue at all. Zhou Huai'an's work unit could provide the referral.

Her heart raced with excitement. "Oh my god, I can't believe it's really happening! I need to call Dad—get him to secure me a spot."

If there was a shortcut, why struggle? Besides, once the news got out, everyone would be pulling strings to get recommendations.

Zhou Huai'an watched her exhilaration with a faint sense of loss. Lin Xiaoxiao was like a kite soaring in the sky—beautiful, but always threatening to fly beyond his reach.

His heart ached with a sudden fear, but he would never hold her back. That would be selfish. His

gaze was tender as he said, "You don't need to. My unit can write your recommendation."

Lin Xiaoxiao beamed, hugging his arm and bouncing with joy. "Really? That's perfect! What about Xiaoling? Can she take the exam too? She should join me!"