The first time Jiang Mo met Gu Yinian, she was twenty-seven.
At a mixer between alumni from different graduating classes.
Among a group of greasy, self-important men nearing thirty, Gu Yinian had a gentle, refined air, like a spring breeze.
She'd also heard that, despite his age, he was still in love with his first crush.
Her best friend wanted to play matchmaker.
Jiang Mo stammered out a refusal. "If he's never dated anyone at his age, even with such great qualities, he must not be into women."
At that moment, she unexpectedly met his deep gaze.
Jiang Mo's scalp prickled, and she tried to escape.
But Gu Yinian blocked her way. "Ms. Jiang, I think I need to clarify my sexual orientation to you."
==
The first time Gu Yinian met Jiang Mo, he was sixteen.
He was hurrying to an exam.
Gu Yinian accidentally collided with a girl.
The girl wore her hair in a high ponytail and had a bright smile. She picked up his stationery and handed it to him, then cheerfully wished him, "Good luck on your mock exam, senior!"
==
Later on.
Jiang Mo found a yellowed photograph in Gu Yinian's wallet.
In the photo, she rested her head on one hand, eyes squeezed shut and brow furrowed, struggling to memorize anatomy.
It was a glimpse of her in college, still young and inexperienced.
It turned out that someone who had never crossed paths with her had always been present in her life.
And his entire youth had been filled with unrequited love.
So for the rest of our lives, we'll love each other with all our might, making up for the twelve years we lost.
--
Reading Guide:
1. A sweet little romance
Theme: Growing wild
Sprinkle flowers, sprinkle flowers, come on