The Echo of Forgotten Dreams

Unexpected Connections

The next day, Lan Xichen sat in his office, catching up on grading and administrative tasks. His thoughts kept drifting back to Wei Wuxian and the concerns he had about the student's well-being and academic progress. Lan Xichen was determined to provide the support Wei Wuxian needed to succeed, and he thought of a way to help him further.

After school, Lan Xichen returned to their apartment, where Lan Wangji was finishing his homework. As he walked through the door, he called out to his younger brother.

"Wangji, do you have a moment?"

Lan Wangji looked up from his textbooks, his expression calm. "Of course, Brother. What's on your mind?"

Lan Xichen took a seat at the dining table, organizing his thoughts before speaking. "I've been thinking about one of my students, Wei Wuxian. He's had a challenging time recently, and I'm concerned about his progress. I was wondering if you'd be willing to help tutor him."

Lan Wangji's eyebrows arched in surprise. "Wei Wuxian? Is he one of your ninth-grade students?"

Lan Xichen nodded. "Yes, he is. I know it's a bit unusual, but I think he could benefit from some extra help. Your expertise and experience could make a significant difference."

Lan Wangji's surprise grew as he realized the connection. "Wei Wuxian is the same boy I met at the diner. I gave him the culinary scholarship application."

Lan Xichen's eyes widened slightly. "Really? I didn't realize that. It seems like quite a coincidence."

Lan Wangji nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, it is. He's my age, as I started school earlier. He's sixteen, just like me."

Lan Xichen's curiosity was piqued. "So, you know him from before?"

Lan Wangji nodded. "We spoke briefly about the scholarship and his aspirations. I remember he seemed very passionate about cooking. It's surprising to hear he's a student of yours."

Lan Xichen smiled, sensing the connection was fortuitous. "It seems that the universe has a way of bringing people together. Given your past interaction, I think your help would be especially valuable to him."

Lan Wangji considered this for a moment before nodding. "I'd be happy to help. I can offer tutoring sessions after school or on weekends, depending on what works best for him."

Lan Xichen's relief was evident. "Thank you, Wangji. I know this will mean a lot to Wei Wuxian. I'll arrange for you two to meet and discuss a schedule that works for both of you."

Later that week, Lan Wangji met with Wei Wuxian after school. The setting was the library, a quiet and neutral space where they could focus on the tutoring sessions. Wei Wuxian arrived, carrying his textbooks and a few notebooks, his worn backpack hanging from his shoulder.

When Wei Wuxian saw Lan Wangji, he was momentarily taken aback. "Lan Wangji? What are you doing here?"

Lan Wangji offered a reassuring smile. "I'm here to help tutor you. My brother asked if I could assist you with your studies."

Wei Wuxian's eyes widened in surprise. "Oh. I didn't expect that."

Lan Wangji took a seat at one of the tables and gestured for Wei Wuxian to join him. "I know it's a bit unexpected, but I'm here to support you. Let's start by discussing what subjects or areas you're struggling with the most."

Wei Wuxian sat down, his nervousness gradually giving way to relief. "Thank you, Lan Wangji. I've been having difficulty keeping up with some of the assignments, especially in math and science. I could use some help in those areas."

Lan Wangji nodded, opening his textbooks. "Let's start with math. I'll help you work through some problems and explain the concepts. We can also set up a plan to address the science topics you're struggling with."

As they began the tutoring session, Wei Wuxian felt a sense of comfort and encouragement. Lan Wangji's calm demeanor and clear explanations made the material more approachable. For the first time in a while, Wei Wuxian felt hopeful about catching up with his studies.

The tutoring sessions became a regular part of Wei Wuxian's routine. With Lan Wangji's assistance, he began to improve his understanding of the subjects and felt more confident in his academic abilities. The unexpected connection between Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian brought a new level of support and encouragement that Wei Wuxian had been missing.

For Lan Wangji, tutoring Wei Wuxian was a rewarding experience. He saw the student's determination and growth firsthand, and it gave him a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The chance to make a difference in Wei Wuxian's life, especially given their previous interaction, felt like a meaningful way to contribute.

As the weeks went by, the bond between Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian grew stronger. The tutoring sessions not only helped Wei Wuxian academically but also provided him with a source of support and friendship. The connection that had begun with a simple scholarship application had evolved into a significant and supportive relationship, making a positive impact on both of their lives.