Love Me in Another Universe

Chapter 118. The Reunion (2)

September 14, 2013, Saturday. Guan Xuchen returned to Xiaoda Middle School for the alumni reunion, where he ran into old classmates including Hong Yilong, Cai Yunfei, and Shen Yitian.

Guan Xuchen was talking with Shen Yitian when he suddenly heard that unforgettable voice nearby. He looked up and, sure enough, saw the man who had lingered in his thoughts all these years.

Gao Xinglang was wearing a blue-and-white striped casual top and a pair of black athletic sweatpants. He looked almost the same as he had ten years ago. He was still handsome as ever, with his square face, thick eyebrows and bright eyes. He still had a strong, lean build with no extra fat, and the slight M-shaped hairline and fine lines brought by time only added to his mature and steady charm.

Their eyes met. Both fell silent, words unspoken. They just stood two or three meters apart, staring at each other for several long seconds. Finally, Shen Yitian broke the silence. He waved at Gao Xinglang and said with a smile, "Prince Lang, you're finally here!" We were just talking about when we could play basketball with you again!

Gao Xinglang waved back, then walked over and grinned broadly. "Prince Tian, long time no see. I've been wanting to play a game of basketball with you too!

Guan Xuchen took a deep breath. After so many years apart, he once again caught that unique scent reminiscent of coconut palms by the sea.

After greeting Shen Yitian, Gao Xinglang paused, fixed his eyes on Guan Xuchen, and said with a smile, "Hey, Soup— Guan Xuchen, long time no see."

Gao Xinglang spoke calmly, but every word struck Guan Xuchen's heart like a heavy drumbeat.

Before today, Guan Xuchen had imagined their reunion countless times.

He had pictured Gao Xinglang embracing him excitedly and saying, "Soupy, long time no see! I've missed you so much!"

And he would reply, tears welling in his eyes, "Lang, I've missed you so much, too!"

Then they would talk endlessly about the past, and Gao Xinglang might even have brought him a small gift.

Of course, he had also imagined Gao Xinglang gently chiding him, "Soupy, why did you change your phone number and move without telling me?"

Then he would hold Gao Xinglang tight and cry, "I'm sorry, Lang..."

And Gao Xinglang would, just like before, gently pat his back and comforting him, "Soupy, it's alright. I'm here now..."

But now, Gao Xinglang only greeted him casually, like any other former classmate—even politely using his full name instead of "Soupy".

Guan Xuchen forced himself to stay calm and replied with a smile, "Hi, Lang, long time no see."

After that, Guan Xuchen stared blankly at Gao Xinglang, as if searching for some kind of answer. But Gao Xinglang seemed to be avoiding his gaze. Just then, Shen Yitian suggested that the three of them exchange contact information, take a group photo, and visit the newly renovated library. Gao Xinglang and Guan Xuchen both readily agreed.

During the library tour, Guan Xuchen and Gao Xinglang initially chatted with Shen Yitian separately, seemingly avoiding each other, whether intentionally or not. Finally, Guan Xuchen mustered up his courage and took the initiative to talk to Gao Xinglang.

"Lang, when did you come back to China?"

"Six months ago."

"How are you and Fan Yueming doing?"

"Hmm, pretty well."

"Are you two married yet?"

"Not yet, hehe."