In the last exam of sophomore year, Xu Si made it into the top 40, breaking 400 points for the first time. But the gap between him and Jiang Qiang remained vast – a deep chasm, hard to cross. He needed to work harder. Even harder.
In early July, a large sign appeared in the most prominent spot at school: 343 days until the college entrance exam. Some felt nervous, while others thought they still had time to play with 300+ days left.
August 28th. That summer’s temperature soared to 38 degrees, stepping outside felt like a sauna. In this scorching summer, senior year began. At the school entrance stood the eye-catching sign with bright red numbers: 283 days until the college entrance exam. Before summer break it started with 3, after break it changed to 2 – many couldn’t accept this.
He Guoshi constantly talked about preparing for the exam, repeatedly counseling students in every class.
Xu Si’s grades improved dramatically, reaching the class’s top 20. Many teachers noticed his progress. This was all thanks to that summer vacation – he finished all the materials Jiang Qiang bought him and half of the new materials. His nightly practice tests now formed a tall stack. Though he protected well the materials Jiang Qiang prepared for him, they were dog-eared from frequent use. He could not only follow Jiang Qiang’s thinking now but sometimes even offer his own insights.
Not just Xu Si – many dark horses emerged in senior year. Many previously average students suddenly showed potential and kept improving.
In midterms, Xu Si broke 500 points for the first time. But doing practice tests afterward, he found it hard to improve further.
Jiang Qiang told him: “To break through high scores, you can’t just master the basic problems.”
Xu Si tried the problems Jiang Qiang usually did and felt the vast difference between them. He truly felt the huge gap remained. As he worked, he unconsciously pulled at his hair.
Jiang Qiang gently pulled his hand away: “It’s step by step, isn’t it? You’ve already improved by over 300 points.”
Xu Si remembered his previous scores of just over 100, and nodded: “I understand.”
…
January 16, 2017. Jiang Qiang’s health deteriorated, relapses becoming more frequent. She woke in pain almost every late night.
After December’s chemotherapy, doctors advised immediate withdrawal from school, saying she’d spend most of her remaining time in the hospital. Jiang Qiang asked to wait.
The Sixteenth High School received several university early admission spots, including one from Q University. Jiang Qiang was called to Fang Zixin’s office.
“Jiang Qiang, the school got four spots. Our class’s spot is yours. You can choose not to come next semester.”
Because the gap between first and second place in Class 17 was huge.
Fang Zixin, concerned about her illness, had previously advised against staying under such intense pressure, but she wanted to stay.
“Teacher, please tell the school I decline the spot.”
“Why?”
Jiang Qiang saw some Class 17 students pass outside the window, then looked away: “Better give it to someone who needs it more.”
“Jiang Qiang, you earned this spot.”
Jiang Qiang looked at him, calmly stating facts: “In freshman year, doctors said I wouldn’t live past three years. I understand my condition. I won’t have a chance to attend university, so give it to someone else.”
Fang Zixin didn’t know what to say.
“Thank you for keeping my secret all this time. Could I ask another favor?”
Fang Zixin met her gaze: “Go ahead.”
“Please continue keeping this secret.”
“You mean… tell them you got early admission?”
Jiang Qiang nodded: “Yes.”
Then she lowered her head, speaking softly: “I might come to school occasionally this year. Thank you for your help.”
It wasn’t trouble at all. If not for Jiang Qiang, Chen Song’s attitude might not have changed. The school wouldn’t have praised their class’s improvement at multiple teacher meetings.
Fang Zixin nodded: “I will.”
But curious, he asked his confusion: “Why not tell the class?”
“I’ve enjoyed being with them. Near the college entrance exam, nothing should distract them, so I don’t want anyone knowing.”
Initially she hid it wanting to be treated normally, avoiding pitying looks or special treatment because she wouldn’t live long. Later she truly came to love the class atmosphere. And that boy.
She seemed to see that summer of ’16, when Fang Zixin brought her to class and her eyes met the boy in the last row. She thought he seemed difficult then. Later she discovered he was incredibly gentle.
Fang Zixin coordinated with other teachers to keep this quiet.
…
During afternoon class meeting, Fang Zixin announced: “Our school received several early admission spots this year. One went to Jiang Qiang, direct admission to Q University. She won’t need to come to school anymore.”
The class was genuinely happy for her.
That day, many asked if she’d still come to school.
Jiang Qiang said: “Yes, but not often.”
She received many notes, candies and snacks, even from those she barely talked to.
Luo Xing nearly cried. Jiang Qiang wiped her tears, comforting her: “I’ll still visit sometimes.”
“Just can’t bear you leaving, Qiaoqiao.”
Hearing the news, Shen Mo came to find Jiang Qiang.
“Congratulations, good student.”
Jiang Qiang smiled: “Thank you.”
Shen Mo asked: “Can I hug you?”
Jiang Qiang opened her arms to hug her: “Of course.”
“I’ll never get into Q University in this life. I can brag about your early admission to my other friends forever.”
Jiang Qiang couldn’t help laughing.
After evening self-study, Xu Si carried her pink backpack and box of books: “Little Teacher rest well at home. I’ll definitely catch up to you.”
Yang Shikun and Hao Ming helped with her other things.
Jiang Qiang looked at him: “Okay.”
“Really going to miss Little Teacher.”
Jiang Qiang’s nose inexplicably stung: “I’ll come visit you all.”
“I’ll wait for Little Teacher.” Xu Si smiled, eyes curving: “Does Little Teacher believe in me?”
“Yes.”
To her, Xu Si could do anything.
“With Little Teacher’s words, I’ll definitely study an extra half hour tonight.”
“Good.”
“If I break 600 points, can Little Teacher hug me?”
Jiang Qiang looked at him: “Yes.”
Xu Si looked at her, dark eyes full of smiling light.
All Jiang Qiang’s things were loaded in the car. She waved gently to the four: “Goodbye.”
Leave a Reply