The first time Shen Ge met Bai Jinyan, she took his hand and called him “big brother” in her soft, sweet voice. Her own older brother was right there, hopping mad.
The second time they met, she saw him at his most wretched. She didn’t remember him, but her brother was still on guard.
The third time, she sat in the sunlight and he struck up a conversation. That was when he seemed to understand his own heart.
The fourth time, she was in danger. Gone was her former sweetness and softness; all that remained was her resolve and refusal to yield. His heart seemed to beat a little faster.
The fifth time, everyone praised her as a perfect match for someone else. He hesitated, but when she came running toward him with a smile and stars in her eyes, he made the decision he was least certain of.
Even when voices spoke of destiny, of the plot, of a beloved muse, he refused to believe them. He knew that between them was a thread binding them together for a lifetime of understanding and devotion.
One day, with their hair turned white, they sat in the sun watching the younger generation play in the courtyard. Bai Jinyan said, “I think I fell for you at first sight, actually. Well, you could also say I was taken by your looks.”
