“Tao Le, wait for me!” Fan Jian’s annoying high-pitched voice drew curious glances from all around. Tao Le really didn’t want to waste words with him, but considering her reputation at school, she couldn’t resort to physical violence. “What do you want? I’ve got things to do.” Tao Le didn’t want to be late, fearing that Professor Su might think she was unpunctual.
Fan Jian patted his chest to catch his breath, “I was thinking of inviting you to dinner tonight. Do you have time?”
“No time!” Tao Le rejected him outright. She paused for a few seconds before saying sternly, “I’m telling you, not just tonight, I won’t have time for you in the morning, noon, or night from now on!”
“Tao Le, why do you treat me like this? I’ve been chasing you for almost four years, can’t you even have a meal with me?” Seeing Fan Jian on the verge of an outburst, Tao Le calmed her emotions and gave a smile, “I’ve told you we are classmates; some things can’t be forced. You’re such a catch, why settle for me?” This dialogue was something she had picked up from TV dramas.
“But even if I’m a good catch, you still don’t like me!” Fan Jian said excitedly, grabbing Tao Le’s arm. “Is it because you have someone you like, so you treat me this way?”
Tao Le was genuinely startled by his sudden action; she knew she couldn’t be tough right now. Noticing the crowd gathering around, Tao Le softened her tone, “Don’t get excited, let’s talk this out calmly.”
“I just want to know why!” Tao Le’s mind raced, she was no longer sure what she was saying. “Actually, I have my reasons…” She put on a look of sorrow and helplessness, fitting right into the role of a tragic heroine, just lacking some eye drops for effect.
Fan Jian started to believe her and let go of her hand, “What reasons?”
Tao Le lowered her head, her voice soft, “Have you ever seen me date during my four years at university?” Fan Jian shook his head, although he knew this better than anyone, it didn’t mean she didn’t have someone she liked.
