(Mutual salvation + reunion after a long separation + guiding partner + from school uniforms to wedding gowns + both leads are each other’s only ones, happy ending + mutual devotion + heroine saves herself and never turns back)
The dark night swallowed the world like a giant beast. Not a glimmer of light could be seen, and even the stars hid behind thick clouds. Half-asleep, Xu Xi saw flashes of scenes in her mind. “Xiao Xier, look at me! Don’t I look gorgeous? I’m taking you out to meet some male models tonight!” It was Jin Yunshu, grinning with carefree confidence. “Xu Xi, the ‘xi’ in your name doesn’t mean ‘regret.’ It means ‘cherish.’” Xu Yian’s voice was calm and clear. “Xixi, let’s go to the dessert shop together tomorrow,” said Chen Minglu, her eyes like a fawn’s. “Little Xi, Brother Yi says we’re going out for a late-night snack after school. Want to come?” Chen Mingfan beamed at her in the sunlight. “Xier, Little Xixi, Xu Xi, Little Xi...” One affectionate call after another drew Xu Xi back to reality. She suddenly opened her eyes and smiled. That was right: she was no longer alone. Somehow, moonlight had slipped through the window and fallen right onto that group photo. Xu Xi stood and walked to the windowsill, picking up the photo and gently stroking it. She looked outside at the cold iron gate, forever bound tightly in rose vines. For once, it no longer made her feel suffocated and oppressed.
