I'll Wait for You in the Future - Chapter 3: The Master

He didn’t beat me;
He just beat the character I chose.

“A person who truly wants to change
must first admit how truly awful they are.”

The next day, Liu Dazhi went to school as usual, his face bandaged like a pig’s head.

“What happened? Did your aunt beat you up?” Dingdang asked from afar, her voice laced with concern.

Liu Dazhi shook his head. “It’s nothing serious. I protected Weixiao last night.”

“Oh, come on, you protected Weixiao? It was probably Weixiao who protected you in the end.”

“Last night…”

“Oh, Chen Tong!”

From afar, Chen Tong zoomed past on his mountain bike. Liu Dazhi had planned to recount his heroic deeds to Dingdang, but Chen Tong’s arrival instantly relegated him to the status of roadside trash.

“Brother, do I look good today? Do I look good?” Dingdang asked anxiously.

Liu Dazhi, his face plastered with bandages, wore an expression of utter contempt, unseen by Dingdang. As Chen Tong approached, Dingdang struck a charming pose, legs straight, gently waving to Chen Tong, politely saying, “Chen Tong, good morning.”

Chen Tong, expressionless, nodded curtly at Dingdang, ignoring Liu Dazhi completely.

“Stone face!” Liu Dazhi muttered.

“Oh my god, so handsome! I love guys like that.”

“Are you girls crazy? Liking that kind of guy? He looks like he’ll make his wife miserable.”

“At least he has someone to make miserable. You, with that pig’s head face, will be a bachelor for life.”

“Hey, I got hurt protecting Weixiao.”

“Get over it. If Chen Tong had protected Weixiao, the only one injured would have been the thug.”

Liu Dazhi was speechless; Dingdang was right. News of his protection of Weixiao spread like wildfire. From afar, he could feel the stares. He was incredibly proud, giving everyone a “yeah!” gesture. Chen Xiaowu ran over, “Dazhi, you’re such a disgrace! I heard you tried to save Weixiao, and then Weixiao carried you to the hospital. The whole school knows! Didn’t Weixiao save you once when you were five?” Liu Dazhi panicked; Dingdang must have spread the news. “Don’t listen to them, I’m returning a favor. Don’t worry, I’ll learn to fight one day!”

“Learning isn’t enough; you need to win!”

“Right! Win!”

“If you met your 10-year-younger self,
do you think you could be friends?”

Next was Chinese class. During break time, Feng Meili handed out the essays.

Hao Huigui wrote several large characters on the blackboard—What Kind of Person Do I Want to Become.

Dingdang opened her essay and saw a 100. She excitedly told Weixiao, “Don’t say I can’t write essays anymore.” Then she saw Weixiao also got a 100.

She quickly glanced at her deskmate’s essay—also a 100.

How could everyone get a 100? Hao Huigui stood on the podium, looking at each student, “For this essay, teacher has given relatively high marks. Everyone can check their scores.”

Relatively high? Let’s see how high. Liu Dazhi opened his essay—59. He was furious. He looked at Chen Xiaowu’s—a 100. Liu Dazhi picked up Chen Xiaowu’s essay with two fingers, weighing it. He’d written less than 100 words!

“My dream is to become a serious bean sprout seller. I won’t do anything else; I just want to sell bean sprouts honestly, treat customers well, and be a down-to-earth businessman. That’s it.”

Hao Huigui continued, “Dreams are essential for everyone. If a person lives without dreams, what’s the difference between them and a salted fish? Every genuine dream is worth 100 points.”

Liu Dazhi asked, “Teacher Hao, what does a dream have to do with a salted fish?”

Hao Huigui was taken aback. He didn’t know either, so he said, “Stephen Chow said that.”

Liu Dazhi asked, “I love Stephen Chow, but I’ve never heard him say that.”

Hao Huigui glared at him. “He would say that.”

After class, Hao Huigui and Liu Dazhi had a face-to-face conversation in the office. Liu Dazhi’s essay lay on the desk. Hao Huigui’s face was expressionless. “Do you know why you’re the only one with a 59? Read it to me…”

“…I want to be a scientist. Every morning, a robot will deliver milk. It will be my best friend. We’ll play chess and walk together…” He became embarrassed. “Teacher Hao, I understand.”

“Understand what?”

“I shouldn’t have written like that. It’s too childish.”

“You know it’s childish? How should you have written it then?”

“If the robot is my friend, why would I have it play chess, walk with me, make me milk? Those things are too childish. A robot should do more advanced things, otherwise, it wouldn’t live up to the greatness of the invention.”

“Enough, shut up. Do you understand science? Do you love technology? Do you really want to build robots? How can you lie without blushing?” Hao Huigui said sternly. “Genuine dreams are worth 100 points. Look at Dingdang. Although her dream is to be a housewife, she dares to express her true feelings. Xiaowu wants to sell bean sprouts, Weixiao wants to be an international news reporter, Feng Meili wants to be a model, Peng Jun wants to write wuxia novels—these are their truest dreams. What nonsense did you write?”

Liu Dazhi suddenly realized. “Teacher Hao, how did you know I wasn’t telling the truth? You’re amazing! I’ll tell you, my essay about becoming a scientist and serving the country was all bullshit.”

Hao Huigui’s eyes lit up. “Teacher will help you achieve your true life dream, okay?”

“Really?” Liu Dazhi was thrilled. “Teacher Hao, you’re a great teacher.”

“Don’t be afraid; I’m here for you.”

Liu Dazhi said magnanimously, “Teacher Hao, my biggest dream is to be a video game player, to make a living playing games. If I become a great gamer, I’ll never forget your guidance. I’ll thank your whole family…”

Hao Huigui’s face darkened. He couldn’t believe it.

Liu Dazhi became more excited. “This is my heartfelt wish. If I become undefeated champion, representing China on the world’s e-sports stage, I’ll thank you in front of everyone for supporting my professional development, becoming a master admired by all—a master!”

Hao Huigui was stunned. “A video game master? Your dream?”

Liu Dazhi said seriously, “A true master!”

Hao Huigui remembered his own passion for fighting games, fantasizing about joining the national team and representing China in the Olympics… Back then, he only dared to dream; he never thought Liu Dazhi would be so audacious as to present this as a genuine dream.

Hao Huigui angrily said, “Do you think this is what I meant?”

Liu Dazhi clasped his hands. “Yes, Teacher Hao, I can’t repay your kindness…” He was about to kneel.

Hao Huigui finally exploded, grabbing a nearby notebook, rolling it up, and hitting Liu Dazhi’s head. “Why don’t you just die!”

“Ouch, ouch, Teacher Hao, don’t hit me, it hurts!”

“It’s no use talking; I’ll beat you to death!”

“You told me to tell the truth, ouch! Ouch!”

Hao Huigui paused, sighing. “Go now; we’ll talk later.”

This teacher wanted him to tell the truth but got so angry. Didn’t he say true dreams were worth 100 points?

Liu Dazhi left the office. Hao Huigui rubbed his forehead, wondering if letting Liu Dazhi seriously play video games now meant that *Honor of Kings* [a popular moba mobile game] might be developed by Liu Dazhi in 2015? He’d read that everyone on that team received millions in bonuses.

No, no! Hao Huigui rubbed his temples. Liu Dazhi had driven him crazy.

“Teacher Hao, you’re here. Let me introduce you.” He Shifu and Wang Daqian entered.

“Teacher Hao, we’ve met.” Wang Daqian warmly extended his hand.

Hao Huigui immediately stood up to shake hands.

“Teacher Hao, Mr. Wang donated a batch of TVs to our school. Your class has already installed them. To show our gratitude, we’re treating Mr. Wang to dinner. You should join us.”

Hao Huigui said awkwardly, “I shouldn’t go.”

Wang Daqian quickly said, “Teacher Hao, we hit it off. How can you not go? Besides, Weixiao is in your class. We’re practically family.”

“But… I really can’t drink. I’m allergic to alcohol.”

He Shifu corrected him, “Who said we’re drinking? Besides, Teacher Hao, maintaining good relationships with parents is one of the criteria for evaluating whether an intern teacher is suitable for the job.”

Hao Huigui had forgotten about his internship. If he didn’t get the job, would he have to leave? Would he return to 2017, or remain in this era, unable to do anything?

“How can we drink with the teacher?” Wang Daqian interrupted Hao Huigui’s thoughts. Hao Huigui’s inner monologue: *Mr. Wang, do you think I’m three years old? When have you ever not drunk at a meal?*

Sure enough, less than half an hour into the dinner, Wang Daqian was already drunk. Two bottles of Moutai [茅台 – a famous Chinese liquor] were already on the table. Wang Daqian raised his glass, “Teacher Hao, we’re not drinking alcohol; we’re drinking to our friendship!”

“Mr. Wang, you really can’t drink anymore. I know a friend who had liver problems and died from drinking. Please stop.”

“For that, I’ll have another one! We live to be happy, not to be afraid of death. Director He, this is on me. If you feel bad, just drink this one!”

“I really can’t!” Hao Huigui was already flushed from the alcohol.

Director He glanced at the bill, sweating, urging, “Teacher Hao, you absolutely can’t say you can’t. You can! You definitely can!”

Hao Huigui drank another cup.

In the living room, Hao Tiemei and Liu Jianguo were arguing again.

Liu Dazhi naturally took out tissues from the drawer, tore them in half, and stuffed one in each ear. Arguments were a daily ritual, from Liu Jianguo neglecting the family to the meaning of his overtime work, to the lack of change over the years. They repeated the same arguments, day after day, for over a decade.

“Bang!”—Liu Jianguo slammed the door.

Hao Tiemei opened the window and shouted, “If you have the guts, don’t come back!”

At first, Liu Dazhi felt ashamed; why did his mother always yell outside?

Later, he got used to it, because he found that the neighbors around him had also gotten used to it. Liu Dazhi pulled out the crumpled paper from his ears, threw it on the table, and lay down motionless. He didn’t want to stay home; his heart had already sunk to the bottom of the sea.

*Bang*—Hao Tiemei pushed open the door to Liu Dazhi’s bedroom.

Liu Dazhi knew something was wrong. Sure enough, Hao Tiemei vented her anger on him: “You’re just like your father! I don’t know if I owed the Liu family in my past life! Have you done your homework?”

Liu Dazhi’s mind raced: “Mom, I forgot my homework at school.”

“Why don’t you just get lost yourself!”

“I’ll go get it now!” Liu Dazhi quickly ran towards the door.

“The older one’s like this, and the younger one’s like this too!” Hao Tiemei said angrily.

Liu Dazhi quickly escaped, closed the door, and ran out of the building. Of course, he didn’t see Hao Tiemei’s dejected expression the moment he left. Liu Dazhi sighed deeply, walking around with his head down. The night was vast and boundless; his father could go to the hospital, but Liu Dazhi didn’t know where he could go.

He saw Wang Shuai and his gang. Liu Dazhi turned and ran, but his turning movement was too loud, and Wang Shuai immediately spotted him. In a short while, he was surrounded.

“Kid, you’re tough! Why aren’t you running anymore?!”

Liu Dazhi assessed the situation and quickly put his hands behind his head: “Big Brother, I beg your forgiveness!”

Wang Shuai kicked him down.

“Big Brother, don’t hit the face!”

“Who’s your Big Brother?!”

“You are my Big Brother! Let’s talk this over!”

In the corner shadows, a group of people slowly surrounded them.

He Shifu was already drunk. Wang Daqian was also drunk.

“Teacher Hao, tell the truth, is Weixiao excellent?”

“Excellent!”

“Did I raise a good daughter?”

“Yes!”

“You drink, I’ll just sip!”

Hao Huigui downed his drink in one gulp, his face flushed red. He slumped onto the table, rambling: “Uncle, you’re really my uncle.”

“Fine, I’ll be your uncle!”

“Uncle, let me tell you, you must never let Weixiao go abroad; she doesn’t like foreigners.”

“How do you know? She wants to be an international news reporter.”

“Uncle, I’m from the future. Shhh, I know everything.”

“Then tell me, will Uncle get rich in the future?”

“Yes… but… ugh—Uncle, I really can’t drink anymore.” Hao Huigui lowered his head and vomited on the floor.

A pair of familiar sneakers appeared before him. Hao Huigui, drunk, looked up: “Hey, you look like my girlfriend…”

“You look like my girlfriend,
but I don’t have a girlfriend.”

Liu Dazhi didn’t go home. Hao Tiemei was very worried and asked Dingdang and Chen Xiaowu to go find him. Weixiao and the driver were walking towards them.

Hao Tiemei anxiously asked: “Weixiao, have you seen Dazhi?”

As they got closer, she saw the driver carrying someone on his back.

“How did Teacher Hao get so drunk?”

“My dad and Director He are even drunker; they’re still in the car! What about Dazhi?”

Hao Tiemei looked at Hao Huigui: “Don’t worry about him! Let’s get Teacher Hao up first.”

In the dorm, Hao Huigui lay on the bed and vomited. In a daze, Hao Huigui saw Weixiao in front of him. He wanted to reach out and grab her, but Weixiao suddenly turned into Hao Tiemei. Hao Huigui smiled: “Mom…” Before he could finish the word “Mom,” he vomited again. Hao Tiemei quickly supported him with one hand and used a basin she had prepared to catch the vomit with the other. Weixiao wanted to take the basin, but Hao Tiemei said: “Don’t worry about it, I’ll take care of it.”

“If it weren’t for meeting you, Aunt, I don’t know what I would have done.”

“Your dad doesn’t know what he’s doing either; go back quickly. You have class tomorrow!”

“Okay, I’ll call Xiaowu and tell him to bring Dazhi home if he finds him!”

“That Liu Dazhi, if I find him, I’ll break his legs!”

Hao Huigui vomited again. Hao Tiemei quickly turned around and gave him warm water, her face full of worry.

Sweat beaded on Wang Shuai’s nose. Liu Dazhi became increasingly energetic as the fight went on.

A final blow, game over! Cheers erupted from behind.

Wang Shuai and Liu Dazhi were playing *Street Fighter* in the arcade.

Liu Dazhi bowed: “How about it, Big Brother, your little brother still has some skills, right?”

Wang Shuai said fiercely: “Again!”

Everyone watched Liu Dazhi, expecting him to continue, but he raised his hand: “Wait!”

“What? Afraid after winning?”

“Afraid? Nonsense! Blindfold me!”

“What?”

“Fighting with my eyes open is me bullying you. Who will blindfold me?”

Wang Shuai’s face flushed. A red cloth covered Liu Dazhi’s eyes, but Chun-Li on the screen seemed to have opened her third eye, attacking and positioning, becoming increasingly fierce. Since the third grade, Liu Dazhi had been playing this game in the arcade, memorizing all the sound effects, naturally developing the ability to locate and attack based on sound. Chun-Li’s legwork was invincible on the screen, the game music was high-pitched, and cheers erupted around him. Liu Dazhi felt like he was at the peak of his life.

Game over again.

Liu Dazhi removed the blindfold: “How about that?!”

Several people in the arcade came over: “Let’s fight you!”

“Dazhi, what are you doing here?” Chen Xiaowu awkwardly squeezed in from the crowd.

“Come on, Xiaowu, let’s have a round. You’re enough to beat them all!”

“Your mom’s looking for you! She even called my house next door!”

“Ah?”

“Your mom’s looking for you!”

“Let’s finish this round first!” Many challengers blocked Liu Dazhi’s path.

Liu Dazhi hesitated for a moment and whispered: “Call my house and tell them I’m staying at your place tonight!” Then he turned around, “Bring it on!” Chen Xiaowu wanted to persuade him again, but he was also captivated by the intense battle.

Liu Dazhi fought several more rounds, completely engrossed. *Slap*—a package was thrown, hitting his head. He turned around and saw Dingdang looking at him expressionlessly.

“What?”

“Your aunt told me to give this to you. She said you shouldn’t come back.”

“I’m staying at Xiaowu’s tonight; I called home!”

“This week’s change of clothes is here; I don’t care about the rest.”

Liu Dazhi suddenly realized, thinking, *Oh no*, he picked up the package and ran home. Chen Xiaowu was still shouting from behind: “So, are you coming to my place tonight or not?”

Liu Dazhi gently opened the door and quietly put down the package.

Suddenly, the lights came on, and Hao Tiemei looked at him coldly.

“Mom, what’s wrong?” Liu Dazhi pretended nothing was wrong.

“Didn’t I tell you not to come back?”

“What? What not come back? Dingdang didn’t say anything…”

“Didn’t you get your clothes? Why are you back?”

“Mom, don’t get yourself upset.”

Hao Tiemei picked up the feather duster. Liu Dazhi tried to stop her.

“You dare to hide?”

“Mom, the beating hurts me, but it also hurts you…”

Before he could finish, the feather duster rained down, and screams echoed through the night.

“It felt like a dream,
and it should be a good thing.”

Hao Huigui woke up from his hangover, his head throbbing. He shook his head, trying to remember what happened last night. There was a note on the table: “Teacher Hao, I came to school last night to find Dazhi and happened to see Weixiao and the driver bringing you and Director He back. Seeing you vomit all over the place, I cleaned up for you. There’s honey water on the table; don’t drink so much next time. Dazhi’s Mom.”

Hao Huigui vaguely remembered some scenes, but he couldn’t remember the specifics. He held the note, feeling a little dazed. It had been years since he’d seen his mother’s handwriting. After cell phones and computers became common, he could only guess her emotions from her text messages, but he hadn’t seen this neat and elegant handwriting in a long time… His mother’s handwriting was so beautiful. Hao Huigui looked at the note; he could feel his mother writing it while looking back at him as he slept. A wave of warmth washed over him. Hao Huigui carefully folded the note and put it in the inner pocket of his bag.

The room was exceptionally clean; his dirty clothes were already washed and hung outside the window. He liked being with his mother like this; there was no pressure, and his mother wouldn’t yell at him. But he also felt a little disappointed. If his mother knew he was her future son, would she still treat him this way? He liked his mother treating him this way, but he didn’t like his mother treating a “stranger” this way.

At school, Hao Huigui first found Chen Xiaowu, then called Liu Dazhi to the office.

Hao Huigui asked: “Tell me, where were you last night?”

“Last night? I was at Xiaowu’s house reviewing my lessons!”

Hao Huigui didn’t have time to waste with him: “Weren’t you missing? Weren’t you supposed to stay at Chen Xiaowu’s? Didn’t you fight Wang Shuai in the arcade, win quite handsomely, and become brothers with him? Now they call you Second Brother?”

Liu Dazhi immediately knew he had been betrayed by Chen Xiaowu. He immediately changed the subject, explaining that it wasn’t him who wanted to fight, but Wang Shuai who challenged him to a duel. Knowing he would lose a fight, he suggested a game, and Wang Shuai surprisingly agreed.

“Then what?” Hao Huigui looked at him coldly.

“Then I won!”

“Your mom came to school looking for you, you know? You even lied and said you didn’t bring your homework…”

Liu Dazhi said aggrievedly: “Teacher Hao, you don’t know, my mom was having a major meltdown. If I hadn’t run, the consequences would have been terrible.”

“Get out.”

“Ah?”

“Run twenty laps around the track after school.”

“Ah?”

“This is your punishment.”

“Teacher Hao, I really won’t do it again next time.”

“Only after you run twenty laps will you truly not dare to do it again.”

Liu Dazhi, seeing there was no room for negotiation, thought for a moment: “Teacher Hao, Chen Xiaowu could have stopped me, but he didn’t. I think we both bear responsibility. Can I run ten laps, and he runs ten laps?” Chen Xiaowu, hearing Liu Dazhi trying to drag him down, immediately rushed in: “Teacher Hao, I clearly tried to stop him, but he dragged me down and even made me play two rounds with him.” Chen Xiaowu didn’t want to be a scapegoat.

“Fine, you two will each run twenty laps.”

Leaving the office, Liu Dazhi was furious: “Chen Xiaowu! Don’t you know that if good brothers share their pain, the pain is halved; if good brothers share their joy, the joy is doubled? Look at you! Originally, we only had to run ten laps each, but now we have to run twenty laps! You idiot!”

“You were the one who dragged me down…”

“It’s only right that I dragged you down! Why are you so impulsive? It’s infuriating! Think about it, from the time Teacher Hao became our homeroom teacher, how many laps have you run around the track? By the end of this semester, everyone will say that Chen Xiaowu from the senior three liberal arts class has run enough to circle the earth five times. You’re not embarrassed, but I am!” Liu Dazhi sighed, his eyes glancing towards Weixiao, who was walking through the first floor. The male students on the third-floor corridor were whispering when they saw Weixiao. Liu Dazhi shouted loudly: “Weixiao!”

Weixiao looked back from downstairs, and the male students upstairs were all agitated.

Liu Dazhi realized he had been too abrupt and immediately softened his tone: “Have you seen Dingdang?”

Weixiao pointed directly at Dingdang standing next to her. Chen Xiaowu was puzzled and poked Liu Dazhi: “Isn’t Dingdang right next to Weixiao?” Liu Dazhi used his eyes to stop Chen Xiaowu, telling him to shut up, and continued loudly: “Okay, I see her, thank you!”

Seeing Liu Dazhi being idle again, Weixiao threw her dictionary from downstairs at Liu Dazhi. Liu Dazhi quickly dodged and caught the dictionary, pretending to be cool as he weighed it. Weixiao shouted down to Liu Dazhi, laughing: “If you’re this bored again, watch out, I’ll beat you up.” The other boys booed Liu Dazhi. Liu Dazhi didn’t care and swaggered through the crowd.

“You’re so strange every time you see Weixiao,” Chen Xiaowu frowned.

“Ah?” Liu Dazhi tried to hide his surprise.

“What’s strange?”

“You’re strange right now.”

“Really?” Liu Dazhi tried to relax.

“Anyway, it just feels like you’re not yourself every time you’re around Weixiao, it’s unnatural, and it’s easy for people to misunderstand that you like her.” Chen Xiaowu didn’t know how to describe it.

Liu Dazhi almost choked.

“What am I like?” Liu Dazhi asked.

“Anyway, it’s…”

“Don’t keep saying ‘anyway’! Okay, okay, I admit I’m a little strange. Tell me, what should I be like?” Liu Dazhi was anxious.

“I don’t know what you should be like, but I know that you don’t know who you are in front of Weixiao, but thankfully…”

“Huh? What’s good?” Liu Dazhi really wanted to know his strengths.

“Thankfully, Weixiao doesn’t like you! So she won’t care.” After saying that, Chen Xiaowu nodded.

“Whether she likes me or not has nothing to do with me; I don’t like her anyway. She’s so fierce, just like my mom.” Liu Dazhi hurried back to the classroom, leaving Chen Xiaowu stunned. What was wrong with Liu Dazhi?

Dingdang shook Weixiao and smiled: “Don’t you think my brother likes you?”

“What?”

“I think my brother acts weird around you.”

“He’s always been weird.”

“That’s true.” Dingdang nodded.

Actually, Weixiao had her own worries at this moment.

She hadn’t expected the new teacher to say, while drunk, that she resembled his girlfriend… Though she’d initially been quite fond of Teacher Hao, his words felt like a transgression. He’d mentioned having a girlfriend before; what if it really was a resemblance? She was troubled. This teacher wasn’t as simple as she’d thought; he was even a little… sleazy. Yes, “sleazy” was quite accurate. Weixiao’s mood suddenly brightened, and she laughed. Dingdang looked at her quizzically.

Hao Huigui kept feeling he’d said something inappropriate to Weixiao while drunk, but he couldn’t remember what. He feared he’d misspoken, knowing his drunken self all too well. In another corner of the campus, Zhou, the janitor, was meticulously cleaning the steps of the playground, muttering under his breath. From afar, Hao Huigui sensed Zhou was constantly murmuring something. Zhou stumbled, nearly falling down the steps. Hao Huigui watched from a distance as Zhou, like a madman, furiously beat the steps with his broom. This janitor was truly lost in his own world.

“To get a bigger handle on someone,
first let them get a small handle on themselves.”

After school, Liu Dazhi, exhausted from running laps, lay directly on the playground; the radio station was playing a Xu Huaiyu song.
“Chen Xiaowu, I’ve had terrible luck knowing you.”
“I shouldn’t have had to run, it’s all because of you…”
“I don’t care, you owe me.” Liu Dazhi was half-dead from exhaustion.
“Huh?”
“Anyway, you owe me one.” Liu Dazhi turned, glaring fiercely at Chen Xiaowu lying beside him, “This week’s homework, you’re doing it!” Liu Dazhi tossed his bag to Chen Xiaowu. Chen Xiaowu remained motionless, “This Teacher Hao is too bad, what should we do next?”
“It’s fine, as long as they don’t kill us, I’ll definitely find his flaws, get a handle on him, and get revenge!” Liu Dazhi felt he couldn’t sit idly by; he had to fight back.
Weixiao and Dingdang came out of the broadcasting station. Liu Dazhi stood up, patted his behind, kicked his bag to Chen Xiaowu, and the two of them went to meet them. As soon as they left the school gates, Wang Shuai and his gang immediately surrounded them on motorcycles.
Weixiao frowned, “Why are they here again?”
Liu Dazhi smiled, “They’re not here for you, they’re here for me.”
Wang Shuai took off his helmet, “Dazhi, Yan’an High School has a new expert, let’s go, let’s meet him!”
Chen Xiaowu whispered to Liu Dazhi, “We just ran twenty laps around…”
“The track!”
“Oh right, I’m dizzy, the track, twenty laps…”
Liu Dazhi hesitated. Wang Shuai glanced at Weixiao, “If you don’t go, that’s prioritizing romance over friendship. I’ll be so embarrassed!”
Liu Dazhi gritted his teeth, “Yes, I can’t let Big Brother be embarrassed! It’s fine, it’s just a game.”
Dingdang, “Your mom, and Teacher Hao, aren’t you afraid of them?”
Liu Dazhi made a slitting-throat gesture to Chen Xiaowu, “If you dare to say anything this time, *slice!* I’ll go first, you come find me later.” With that, he hopped onto a motorcycle and roared off.
“Your mom will break your legs, I don’t care!” Dingdang yelled from behind.
Weixiao watched Liu Dazhi leave, shaking her head, “Let him go, he’ll eventually realize this is wrong.”
“Weixiao, wait a minute.” Hao Huigui ran over from a distance.
Seeing Teacher Hao approach, Dingdang was particularly happy. Hearing Teacher Hao call her name, Weixiao felt she couldn’t leave or stay. “Um, I drank too much with your dad yesterday, if I said anything inappropriate, it was because I was drunk.” He originally wanted to ask, “Did I say anything I shouldn’t have?” but seeing Dingdang nearby, he changed his words.
“Mm.” Weixiao responded coldly.
“I won’t drink with your dad again.” Hao Huigui realized he must have said something.
“Then don’t drink.” Weixiao turned and left. Dingdang sensed something was amiss and chased after Weixiao, “Weixiao, wait. Teacher Hao, goodbye!”
“Goodbye.” Hao Huigui waved.
The arcade next to Yan’an High School was packed with onlookers.
Liu Dazhi made a grand entrance like a boxing champion, with a follower carrying his bag. The opponent, clearly prepared, looked disdainful—the Yan’an expert known as “Overlord.” Liu Dazhi grinned, “So you’re quite famous, Overlord, huh? I’m from Hunan No. 5 High—Chun-Li.” Liu Dazhi struck a cute pose.
Overlord bowed, “Please.”
Liu Dazhi bowed and stepped forward.
Overlord chose Ken in red, but he didn’t attack directly, instead using medium-to-long-range Hadokens to control Liu Dazhi’s Chun-Li. Liu Dazhi remained calm, not panicking despite the disadvantage. Wang Shuai kept urging, “Attack! Attack! At this rate, you’ll run out of time, your health bar is lower, you’ll lose!” Liu Dazhi ignored Wang Shuai, using various maneuvers to close in and retreat. Overlord played exceptionally well, few flaws, very steady. Liu Dazhi hadn’t encountered such an opponent in a long time.
The first round ended with Chun-Li defending multiple Hadokens, losing some health, temporarily behind.
Wang Shuai’s crew shook their heads, feeling embarrassed.
“Coke!”
A can of Coke with a straw was offered to Liu Dazhi’s lips. He drained the entire can in one go and continued the fight. Wang Shuai didn’t understand Liu Dazhi’s strategy, nor why they were both keeping their distance, rarely clashing. For Liu Dazhi, it was about seizing the perfect opportunity in a flash, relying on the opponent’s mistakes and his own prediction. Ken launched a sweep kick, Chun-Li retreated in time, the kick missed; the instant Ken turned, Chun-Li closed in with a body slam, landing the first direct hit. The onlookers gasped. Overlord was a little embarrassed and intensified his attack. Liu Dazhi seized two more openings and won the round.
In the third round, Overlord adjusted his strategy, returning to the first round’s control tactics. Wang Shuai, fearing Liu Dazhi’s defeat, kept urging him to attack. Liu Dazhi attempted two attacks, but both were blocked. Before the round ended, Liu Dazhi stood up, clasped his hands, “Impressive, I lose today, we’ll fight again next week.”
Wang Shuai was stunned, “There’s still time, why give up?”
“Something’s wrong today, I’d lose anyway.”
Wang Shuai naturally didn’t understand. The onlookers, feeling embarrassed, dispersed. Liu Dazhi sat alone on the steps outside the arcade, waiting for Chen Xiaowu, slightly dejected. From afar, Chen Xiaowu saw Liu Dazhi enveloped in a profound loneliness.
“You lost?”
Liu Dazhi nodded.
“No way, who can beat you at this game?”
“Mm…” Liu Dazhi fell into thought.
Chen Xiaowu sat beside Liu Dazhi, silently keeping him company. Liu Dazhi suddenly perked up, jumping up, “I know! I know! He didn’t beat me; he beat the character I chose.” Chen Xiaowu didn’t understand. Liu Dazhi shouted, “I know what went wrong! Besides Chun-Li, I need to master another character! He used Ken to counter Chun-Li, I need to find a character to counter him!”
At the arcade near Hunan No. 5 High, Liu Dazhi practiced furiously. Chen Xiaowu tried to persuade him, “Big Brother, forget it. Your mom, Weixiao, Teacher Hao—have you forgotten their attitudes?”
Liu Dazhi didn’t look up, “If I don’t win, who will respect me?” The screen showed Liu Dazhi winning. Liu Dazhi nudged Chen Xiaowu, “How about it? Am I cool?”
Chen Xiaowu didn’t respond.
“Why aren’t you saying anything… Teacher… Teacher Hao!”
Hao Huigui stood before Liu Dazhi.
Outside the arcade, the pedestrians thinned. Hao Huigui paced back and forth, “Have you ever thought that you’re good at this game because most people smarter than you don’t play, and those dumber than you haven’t put in the time and effort. You meet someone with a normal brain, and you lose. It’s not that playing video games has no future, it’s that *you* have no future playing video games, your skills are too… trash.”
“Teacher Hao, um… what does ‘trash’ mean?”
“Trash means… really bad!”
“Teacher Hao… I have skills, it’s hard for outsiders to understand. Sigh, it’s hard to explain. But you’re the teacher, whatever you say is right.”
“Do you not listen to me?”
“I listen, I listen, I won’t play anymore.” Liu Dazhi looked helpless, yet wanted to salvage some face, “But Teacher Hao, you haven’t played. You don’t know, gaming is a powerful world, in this world—sigh, you wouldn’t understand.”
“I say I understand, of course I understand.”
“Usually, people who’ve played this game wouldn’t say that.”
“Then how should I say it?”
“How about Teacher Hao plays a round with me? If you win, I’ll do whatever you say.” Liu Dazhi resorted to the same tactic he used on Wang Shuai, wanting to prove himself, and hoping to trap Teacher Hao.
Hao Huigui was silent for a moment.
“Teacher Hao?” Liu Dazhi tentatively asked.
“Fine, I accept. Let’s play a round.”
He’s fallen for it! Liu Dazhi imagined himself peering into the trap, seeing Hao Huigui defeated and begging for mercy.
“Really?” Liu Dazhi and Chen Xiaowu said in unison.
“I’ll play you a round. If I win, you’ll focus on studying and never play games again.”
“Teacher Hao, you can’t be joking!”
“If I lose, you can play whatever you want.”
“Deal!”
News of Hao Huigui and Liu Dazhi’s bet spread rapidly through the school.
“Teacher Hao will have a showdown with Liu Dazhi at the arcade! Time: tomorrow afternoon after school, location: the second arcade on the third corner of Wusi Road!”

“When you truly understand yourself,
you can overcome your worse self.”

On the day of the showdown, the arcade was packed.
“Weixiao, whose side are you on?” Dingdang whispered to Weixiao in the crowd. Dingdang had practically dragged Weixiao here. A teacher rambling nonsense while drunk, a classmate acting impulsively without self-awareness, and the two of them betting on a fighting game. Weixiao didn’t answer Dingdang’s question; in her eyes, they were both children.
Dingdang was leaning in to talk to Weixiao when she saw Chen Tong approaching.
“Chen Tong!”
“You’re here too?” Weixiao nodded to Chen Tong.
“Rare to see you.” Chen Tong nodded back.
On the other side, Wang Shuai set up a betting stall, shouting, “Ten to one odds! Ten to one odds!” making the already cramped arcade even more crowded.
Suddenly, a commotion outside, “They’re here! They’re here!”
Liu Dazhi followed Hao Huigui, brimming with confidence. He looked around—Dingdang was there, Weixiao and Chen Tong were there, and many unfamiliar classmates. Liu Dazhi was incredibly proud; if he won today, he’d truly be a big shot at school. Passing Weixiao, he gave a “yeah!” gesture, “Why are you here?”
Weixiao replied, “Quite impressive, dragging your homeroom teacher into this.”
Liu Dazhi shyly said, “I just mentioned it casually, who knew Teacher Hao was so manly, he immediately agreed.” Liu Dazhi knew his only skill was gaming; this duel with his homeroom teacher was a chance to prove himself.
Weixiao! Let me leave a deep impression on you! Liu Dazhi yelled in his heart.
The two sat down at the arcade machine and started choosing characters. Liu Dazhi was most skilled with Chun-Li; after selecting her, he grinned at Hao Huigui. Hao Huigui remained expressionless and chose Ken. Liu Dazhi’s heart skipped a beat; why would Teacher Hao choose this character? No, no, it must be a coincidence. The onlookers sensed the drama was about to begin. Anyone familiar with *Street Fighter* knew that choosing Ken directly meant either a newbie or a master. Judging from his grip on the joystick and his right-hand button pressing posture, Hao Huigui wasn’t a newbie.
The match began.
Liu Dazhi glanced at Hao Huigui’s right hand and his heart sank. Like playing guitar, observing someone’s finger placement on the strings reveals their skill level. Hao Huigui used his thumb for the bottom three buttons, his index and middle fingers for the top three—a master’s technique.

Liu Dazhi, no longer taking his opponent lightly, abandoned his usual aggressive tactics, opting instead to search for Hao Huigui’s weaknesses. Hao Huigui’s strategy mirrored that of the Yan’an Overlord. Ten seconds into the match, Liu Dazhi’s expression shifted; he’d met a true opponent. He avoided looking at Hao Huigui; “fear” wasn’t quite the right word—Hao Huigui was simply unfathomable. He didn’t know where this homeroom teacher came from, nor why he seemed fixated on him. He’d set a trap, only to find himself ensnared. No! He couldn’t be swayed! He couldn’t lose, not with so many people watching, not with Weixiao present! If he lost, what would he even do with his life?!

Sweat beaded on Liu Dazhi’s forehead.

Even before the match began, Hao Huigui felt a twinge of anxiety. He hadn’t touched a fighting game since university. Despite the rust, the familiar visuals and music triggered a flood of memories, bringing back his old skills.

Hao Huigui completely neutralized Liu Dazhi’s attacks, steadily regaining his form. On screen, Chun-Li, eager for victory, launched reckless attacks, each easily countered by Ken. The onlookers gasped, not out of pity for Liu Dazhi, but sheer astonishment at their homeroom teacher’s gaming prowess. A smile crept onto Hao Huigui’s face, while Liu Dazhi’s turned crimson with frustration. His desperation led to mistakes, leaving him utterly helpless. Dingdang, excitedly tugging on Weixiao’s hand, babbled, “Oh my god, Teacher Hao is so amazing?! Oh my god, I think I’m falling for him!”

Weixiao urged Dingdang to calm down, but her own surprise was evident. This Teacher Hao wasn’t just all talk; he possessed genuine skill.

The screen flashed “Game Over.” Liu Dazhi had lost—two rounds in a row, defeated by his own homeroom teacher. Years of dedication, a dream of glory, shattered by a teacher. He didn’t know how to face his peers, how to meet Weixiao’s gaze, how to face himself.

Someone applauded. Liu Dazhi, ashen-faced, stood, his eyes vacant. He was utterly useless, humiliated in his one area of expertise. Hao Huigui patted Liu Dazhi’s shoulder, “So?”

Seeing Liu Dazhi’s expression, Hao Huigui realized he’d gone too far. Liu Dazhi might have recognized his shortcomings, but this method was excessive. Cold sweat broke out on Hao Huigui’s brow. He’d intended to help, but had publicly humiliated him. He couldn’t guess Liu Dazhi’s feelings, but if it were him, he’d be utterly devastated, wanting to disappear. While everyone might be impressed, especially Weixiao, the comparison would be with Liu Dazhi himself—defeating his 17-year-old self, gaining recognition by stepping on his younger self—that was the real sting. He needed to make Liu Dazhi better, not humiliate him. His mind raced; he had to salvage Liu Dazhi’s pride.

The onlookers remained, eager for the spectacle. Liu Dazhi slowly walked out of the arcade, his world seemingly crumbling. Ten minutes ago, he’d been brimming with confidence; now, he’d been defeated in his area of dominance. His mind was blank; it felt like a dream. How could he lose to Teacher Hao? Had Hao Huigui drugged him, cheated? Impossible! How could he lose to his homeroom teacher in a fighting game? His life’s only faith, the confidence built over years, had been shattered. Hao Huigui watched Liu Dazhi, consumed by guilt. Suddenly, Liu Dazhi turned, “thump,” kneeling on one knee, hands clasped, “Master, please accept your disciple’s bow!” Everyone was stunned, including Hao Huigui.

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. They’d expected Liu Dazhi’s defeat to elicit remorse, regret—at least some shame. But this… While they didn’t expect outright tears, they anticipated a show of decency.

The awkwardness intensified, becoming even more bizarre. Before Hao Huigui could react, Weixiao approached, pulling Liu Dazhi up, “Liu Dazhi, you lost. Admit it, tell Teacher Hao you’ll never play games again. And try to avoid kneeling; it’s unbecoming of a man, if you still consider yourself one.” She’d never spoken to Liu Dazhi like this before. Silence fell. Liu Dazhi’s face hardened, but he remained kneeling, “This is between men.”

“Fine, then keep kneeling.” Weixiao turned and walked towards the school. Dingdang followed. Liu Dazhi was caught between a rock and a hard place. He needed a way out, without feeling emasculated by his half-kneeling position. Hao Huigui saw Liu Dazhi’s predicament, “Actually, Dazhi, you played incredibly well. With your intelligence and emotional intelligence, a little more practice, and you could easily defeat me. But if you channeled that energy into your studies, getting into a key university would be a sure thing.”

“Teacher Hao, how are you so good?” Liu Dazhi hadn’t grasped Hao Huigui’s subtle suggestion about university. Hao Huigui slapped him on the back of the head, “Liu Dazhi, I mean stop playing games! Focus on your studies, and getting into a key university is a sure thing!”

Liu Dazhi said earnestly, “Okay! I will… definitely do it!”

“Beep beep! Beep beep!” An ambulance emerged from the school.

“Teacher Hao, what’s…”

“It’s nothing, nothing. Teacher Zhang, this is…”

“Zhou, the janitor, fell down the stairs and is unconscious. I need to take him to the hospital.”

“Ah?” Hao Huigui recalled Zhou’s erratic behavior. He’d always been cautious; what happened?

Everyone made way for the ambulance, which sped off.

“My relationship with myself improved,
but my relationship with the person I like grew distant.”

Hao Huigui realized a serious problem—he’d accomplished nothing, making things worse. His drunken words had alienated Weixiao; his game with Liu Dazhi had led to Liu Dazhi’s humiliation and Weixiao’s further distancing. Yet, in Hao Huigui’s memory, Weixiao had never disliked him. Had his presence exacerbated Liu Dazhi’s flaws? That night, Hao Huigui tossed and turned, unable to sleep.

That night, Liu Dazhi also tossed and turned, unable to sleep. He found it strange; he should have been devastated by his loss, consumed by regret for months. Yet, he felt… different. Thinking of Hao Huigui, a strange smile played on his lips.

This teacher was enigmatic, yet he’d earned Liu Dazhi’s respect. The seemingly childish comments, like “You’re so good at games, you must be good at studying,” resonated. He’d wanted to study seriously, but lacked the interest. This time, he wanted to believe Teacher Hao. Hao Huigui had gone to such lengths to deter him from gaming; he should reciprocate. Liu Dazhi felt a glimmer of hope. He sat up, changing his alarm from 7:30 AM to 6:30 AM, then lay back down, staring at the ceiling. Remembering his words to Weixiao, he felt regret, annoyance, and a touch of resentment. If Weixiao truly understood him, she’d know his playful demeanor was self-preservation. He’d endured his parents’ constant arguments; without his cheerful facade, he wouldn’t have the courage to face the world. He knew Weixiao meant well, but he wasn’t ready, lacked the courage to admit his shortcomings to others.

“The overconfident Hao Huigui,
finds himself in a difficult situation.”

Hao Huigui stood in He Shifu’s office.

He Shifu tapped his desk, pointing at Hao Huigui’s nose, “Unacceptable!”

Seeing He Shifu’s seriousness, Hao Huigui fought back a smile.

“Do you know what’s being said? How ugly it sounds?”

Hao Huigui shrugged, “It was just a game.”

“Just a game? Is that right?”

“Director, I had no other choice. Without the duel, I couldn’t think of another way to keep him out of the arcade. You said he was a smart kid.”

“Nonsense! Absolutely nonsense! Fighting a student—are you even a teacher?” Seeing Hao Huigui’s lack of understanding, He Shifu’s anger escalated, “Teacher Hao, don’t forget, you eight interns were handpicked from the Education Bureau’s files. We entrusted you with the liberal arts class, hoping you understood your responsibility. No one from the liberal arts class at Hunan No. 5 High has ever gotten into a key university. Do you think you’re doing right by their parents? How will this make the parents feel about our school?! If you remain stubborn, in two months, you’ll pay the price for your actions!”

Hao Huigui froze, “He’s clearly saying I won’t get the job, right?”

If he’d heard this earlier, he wouldn’t have cared; it wasn’t a job he liked. But now, his bond with Liu Dazhi and the others had deepened. If he lost his position, how could he get close to Weixiao, change things between Liu Dazhi and Weixiao? He softened, hoping to persuade He Shifu, “Director He, I agree with you, but education can use different methods. Mine might be unconventional, but the results are good. Liu Dazhi has pledged to quit gaming. He’s smart, just misguided.”

“I think *your* mind is misguided! Good results? Have you considered the consequences…”

Hao Huigui interrupted, “I have!”

He Shifu’s anger flared, “You have? How can you guarantee a win? What if you lose? What will the students say? Liu Dazhi? The parents? Others’ opinions of our school? You think I’m old-fashioned, a stickler, that I can’t understand your new methods? That I dislike young people? Who hasn’t been young? Fighting a student, letting the whole school watch you play games—is that teaching? You won? You showed off! Look at the rumors now—a teacher fighting a student. Do you know how many calls I’ve received since last night?”

“Fighting a student? I didn’t fight, we played games…”

He Shifu slammed his desk, “Games?! We’re being evaluated! If the parents go to the Education Bureau, the whole school will be ruined because of your game! You don’t represent yourself, but the whole school! Liu Dazhi’s parents will be here soon; explain yourself! If this reaches the principal, you won’t last two months—get out!”

Hao Huigui felt dejected; in both his dream and reality, he didn’t understand workplace rules. When Hao Tiemei entered, He Shifu’s demeanor changed, becoming amiable, “Mrs. Liu, Teacher Hao realizes his mistake. His method was extreme, but his intentions were good.” He glared at Hao Huigui.

Hao Huigui immediately followed, “Director He is right. I didn’t consider the consequences, acting solely on my own judgment, causing negative repercussions.”

Hao Tiemei looked at He Shifu, “You called me for this?”

“Ah? Our school acted inappropriately; we sincerely apologize.”

“Director He, Dazhi pledged at home to quit gaming. That’s good! The method was extreme, but better than me breaking his legs…”

Hao Huigui, “I should have considered other methods.”

“Teacher Hao, don’t worry, I know my son. From now on, Dazhi is in your hands. If he disobeys, beat him until he’s dead—I’ll take responsibility.”

He Shifu was stunned. Hao Huigui quickly said, “Mrs. Liu, let me see you out.”

They left He Shifu’s office. Hao Huigui said sheepishly, “I apologize for my unprofessional behavior; Director He was just worried.” Hao Tiemei looked at Hao Huigui, “I believe you’ll be a good teacher.” “I always seem to be in a mess in front of you. Thank you for helping us that night.” “It was a coincidence; it’s fine for me to see, but it wouldn’t be good for Weixiao to see. She even helped get you home.”

Hao Huigui’s mind flashed back to his drunken words, “Oh no!” Hao Tiemei looked at him anxiously, “What’s wrong, Teacher Hao? Did I say something wrong?” “No, no, I remembered something urgent. Mrs. Liu, I won’t see you out.”

Hao Tiemei watched Hao Huigui run off, muttering, “Teacher Hao… is also like a child.”

“Knowing your flaws is only 10% of success;
knowing how to improve is the remaining 90%.”

After school, Hao Huigui found Liu Dazhi still in the classroom. Seeing Hao Huigui, Liu Dazhi looked relieved.

“Teacher Hao, didn’t you say Weixiao thought I wasn’t manly enough?”

“I was so manly yesterday, but she…” Liu Dazhi couldn’t distinguish between “true manliness” and “male chauvinism.”

“What are you planning to do now?”

“If I knew how to solve this problem, I wouldn’t be so bothered.”

“If I could help you solve it, would you be willing to follow my advice?”

“Yes! Yes! Anything!” Liu Dazhi suddenly became excited, “Teacher Hao, what should I do?”

“Weixiao grew up with her businessman father, meeting many people. If she’s made a judgment about you, doing just one thing won’t change her impression. We need to work on this from many angles. From tomorrow on, do whatever I tell you to do. Trust me, within three months, I guarantee your relationship will improve.”

“No problem!” I’ve been through worse than three months.

“So, what can I do now?”

“Weixiao isn’t someone who holds grudges. Do what you normally do, pretend nothing happened yesterday, but tomorrow, we truly begin to change.”

“Ah, the broadcast is over, should I go with them?”

“Go.”

Although Liu Dazhi was a little apprehensive, he felt Teacher Hao must have his reasons, so he immediately packed his bag. Hao Huigui was also apprehensive; he didn’t know if Weixiao had truly let go of yesterday’s events. But he knew his past self had always worried about this and that. Looking back, his excessive caution had caused him to miss many opportunities. He was determined to push Liu Dazhi forward at every hesitant juncture. Hao Huigui secretly followed behind Liu Dazhi. Liu Dazhi bought four ice creams from the school store and, with Chen Xiaowu, caught up with Dingdang and Weixiao, mustering his courage to say, “To celebrate my quitting games and starting anew.”

Dingdang looked at Weixiao. Without hesitation, Weixiao took the ice cream and started eating. Chen Xiaowu was dumbfounded. What kind of girl could turn cold yesterday and act like nothing happened today?

“Eat, what are you staring at? Don’t let good food go to waste.” Dingdang also took one.

Seeing Weixiao accept the ice cream, Liu Dazhi thought, “Teacher Hao is truly amazing; how did he know Weixiao would act like yesterday never happened?”

The four raised their ice creams, clinking them together: “Cheers!”

Then, Liu Dazhi raised his ice cream, “To Teacher Hao! Teacher Hao is such a good teacher!”

Weixiao calmly said, “Just don’t get led astray.” Liu Dazhi continued, “He’s so amazing, even if he leads me astray, I’m willing. You don’t know how picky my mom is; now, she doesn’t question anything Teacher Hao says.” Dingdang looked at Weixiao, “Doesn’t your dad also like Teacher Hao? Such a handsome teacher suddenly appearing in our lives, it’s like an idol drama. Don’t you think I’m like the female lead?” Dingdang was completely self-absorbed.

Liu Dazhi smeared ice cream on Dingdang’s face: “Are you shameless?”

Dingdang shrieked, “Liu Dazhi, you’re dead!”

Chen Xiaowu: “Teacher Hao…”

“It’s not that magical.” Liu Dazhi turned around, seeing Hao Huigui, immediately putting on a cheerful face, “Teacher Hao… do you want some ice cream?”

Dingdang, feeling the ice cream on her face made her look terrible, glared furiously at Liu Dazhi.

Weixiao pulled Dingdang along, “Let’s go, wipe it off.” Dingdang, being pulled away by Weixiao, kept looking back, “Teacher Hao, I’m leaving now. Bye, see you tomorrow.” Weixiao forcefully pulled Dingdang away. Hao Huigui suddenly caught up, “Weixiao, wait!” Weixiao stopped. Dingdang quickly wiped her face with her sleeve. Liu Dazhi and Chen Xiaowu also caught up.

Hao Huigui said naturally, “I had dinner plans with your dad tonight, but a friend came over unexpectedly, so I can’t make it.”

Weixiao perfunctorily replied, “Oh.”

“I can’t drink; I was really embarrassing myself last night. You should also tell your dad to drink less; it’s bad for his health.”

Weixiao looked down, silent.

Dingdang laughed, “Teacher Hao, Uncle Wang can’t help but drink.”

Liu Dazhi: “What kind of man doesn’t drink alcohol?!”

Hao Huigui sternly scolded Liu Dazhi, “Men should kneel, kneel constantly; the more you kneel, the more manly you are, right?”

Chen Xiaowu and Dingdang laughed, and even Weixiao couldn’t help but smile. Liu Dazhi awkwardly said, “Teacher Hao, stop it. I’ve already explained; I won’t kneel again.”

“Do you really understand?”

“I really understand.”

Weixiao regained her calm expression, “Teacher Hao, I’ll tell my dad.” Hao Huigui nodded and walked in another direction. He wondered why he could help Liu Dazhi break the ice, but seemed to encounter obstacles himself. Was he destined to face such difficulties no matter how old Weixiao was?

“Weixiao, don’t you think Teacher Hao has a unique charm?” Dingdang, looking at Hao Huigui’s back, was completely smitten.

“Don’t you like Chen Tong?” Weixiao looked at Dingdang with a helpless smile.

“I’m just objectively analyzing their strengths. I think Teacher Hao is a man, while the others are just boys, although Chen Tong is an excellent boy.” Dingdang accurately categorized the men she was interested in.

He Shifu’s prediction came true.

The Education Bureau was coming to the school for an inspection. The school arranged for Teacher Zhang, a top-tier science teacher, to give a public lesson. But because of Hao Huigui and Liu Dazhi’s arcade battle, someone wrote a letter to the Education Bureau, and they specifically requested to observe Hao Huigui’s composition class. In the words of the Education Bureau leader: They wanted to see what was different about this teacher who played video games with his students.

Hao Huigui frowned; what did this mean? He Shifu stared motionlessly at Hao Huigui, making him uneasy. Seeing Hao Huigui remain unmoved, He Shifu exploded, “Do you know this is the final stage of the school’s evaluation?! Do you know how well Teacher Zhang from the science class teaches?! Do you know why the Education Bureau wants to observe your class? Because you were caught red-handed, implicating the entire school?! You teach a bad class, then leave! What about us? Do you know what it means for the school to not receive an excellent rating this year? The bonus points for the college entrance exam, the three-good student awards, the teachers’ salaries—all gone! Sigh! How could we have hired a teacher like you…” He Shifu’s tone shifted from anger to helplessness.

Hao Huigui didn’t know what to say; it seemed nothing would work. He Shifu waved his hand, “Go, go. Don’t teach these few days; I’ll find someone to substitute for you. This composition class is about father-son relationships; prepare well, make sure you leave no regrets.” Hao Huigui felt a little sorry for He Shifu; if he caused trouble, He Shifu’s position would also be in jeopardy.

Hao Huigui sighed, returning to the dorm, thinking for a long time, then opened the lesson plan He Shifu had given him. He never imagined he would one day be preparing for this kind of lesson. Hao Huigui’s relationship with his father, Liu Jianguo, had become strained; they had nothing to say to each other. After pondering for a long time, Hao Huigui found Zhu Ziqing’s essay “Father’s Back,” seeking inspiration for father-son relationships. Seeing the two instances of “clever” in the essay, Hao Huigui felt a pang of guilt. Before, he’d thought this short essay was just an excellent piece of writing; today, he found every word poignant, whether it was the self-reproach for being too clever or the concise depiction of the difficulties in father-son relationships. Before even reading about the father crossing the railway tracks to buy oranges, Hao Huigui’s eyes welled up. Perhaps it was only after turning 30 that he could understand these words. As a child, he often rode on his father’s neck; later, as he grew older, his parents’ relationship became increasingly strained, and his communication with his father decreased. His impression was mostly of his father seeing patients or reading newspapers alone.

If he had to recall a profound memory, it would be the day he left for the provincial capital to attend university. Hao Tiemei was afraid she would cry, so she let Liu Jianguo send Hao Huigui alone. Father and son didn’t say a word along the way. Only after Hao Huigui entered the station did he hear his father shouting from behind, “Be safe.” Since then, whenever he passed construction sites or bridges and tunnels, seeing the words “Be safe,” he seemed to hear his father’s choked voice, feeling particularly warm. Others found his sentimentality at these signs inexplicable. Thinking about this, Hao Huigui felt some regret about his relationship with his father.

Hao Huigui suddenly remembered many things. The day his father sent him to the station, he rushed to the train station, while his father walked slowly, as if he couldn’t walk fast. Seeing his father lagging behind, he was impatient, urging, “Faster, faster,” complaining about his slow pace. His father’s expression was complex. Looking back, his father was an emergency doctor, usually quick on his feet; why would he walk slowly? He probably just wanted to spend more time with his son on this final journey, to talk more. Perhaps he had never understood his father’s intentions; he was truly “too clever” back then.

During the last home visit, hearing his father’s voice, he didn’t feel much. Now, he really wanted to see his father. Like some songs, initially unremarkable, years later, he could understand the melody and the singer’s emotions.

Hao Huigui closed the lesson plan; he knew how to teach this class.

Later that day, He Shifu came to see him, bringing bad news. The Education Bureau would be coming three days earlier to observe the public lesson, leaving Hao Huigui only two days to prepare. After He Shifu left, Hao Huigui opened the calendar, preparing to mark the date. Unexpectedly, two days after the public lesson, a red circle was drawn, with the words “Be careful” written on it. Why another “Be careful”? Was it marked by Zhou, the janitor again? He flipped back to last week, on the day Zhou said to be careful—the 20th—he and Liu Dazhi had their game, and Zhou fell down the stairs.

Hao Huigui was instantly terrified. Was Zhou predicting what would happen to him? But if he could predict, why couldn’t he avoid injury? Or was it just a coincidence? Hao Huigui frowned, studying the circle on the calendar; did this “Be careful” mean something else would happen? Would Zhou, already in the hospital, have another accident? Hao Huigui was baffled; he opened and closed the lesson plan, finally deciding to prepare the lesson first, then go see Zhou.

What did the “Be careful” on the calendar mean?

“What’s most touching isn’t excellence,
but sincerity.”

The students in Class 1, Senior Three Liberal Arts, were also actively preparing.

Feng Meili went to the podium, “The day after tomorrow, our Chinese class will be a public lesson; leaders from the Education Bureau will be observing. Please cooperate.” She then walked down.

Liu Dazhi: “Finished? You’re such an irresponsible class representative.”

“Finished!”

“You haven’t said how we should cooperate!”

“Ah? We need to cooperate?”

Liu Dazhi stood up, facing the class, “At the very least, we should coordinate our answers; we can’t let Teacher Hao lose face.”

Chen Xiaowu interjected, “Aren’t you against formalism?”

“What’s formalism? Can something without content be called formalism? I don’t know how you learned politics. Let me ask you, if Teacher Hao calls on you, what will you say?”

“What do you mean?”

“Chen Xiaowu, today’s topic is father-son relationships. Have you read any essays about father-son relationships? Like ‘Father’s Back’.”

“What’s ‘Father’s Back’?”

Dingdang laughed at Chen Xiaowu from her seat. Weixiao smiled, “It’s a story about father-son relationships.” Chen Xiaowu said to Weixiao, “My dad sells bean sprouts; what’s there to say?” Liu Dazhi impatiently waved his hand, “Okay, okay, don’t speak then. Class monitor, what do you think? Should we cooperate?”

Weixiao thought, this was Teacher Hao’s first public lesson; it wouldn’t be good if it was too embarrassing, “Let’s do this, when Teacher Hao asks a question, everyone should actively raise their hands.”

Liu Dazhi: “No, no, what if I’m called on?”

Dingdang: “Then what?”

Liu Dazhi thought, “Got it! Raising your right hand means you’ll answer; raising your left hand means you won’t. This way, our class will seem very active, the atmosphere great. Teacher Hao will also have face, and nothing will go wrong.”

Dingdang: “Are you talking about Teacher Hao’s right hand or our right hand?”

Liu Dazhi thought for a moment, “Let’s do Teacher Hao’s right hand.”

After school, Liu Dazhi went straight to Hao Huigui’s dorm, gently pushing open the door, “Teacher Hao, don’t worry, I’ve got it.” Hao Huigui was seriously preparing his lesson; seeing Liu Dazhi, he was startled, “What are you doing?” Liu Dazhi whispered, “During the public lesson, everyone in our class will actively raise their hands. This way, the atmosphere will be lively. We have a secret code.”

“What code?” Hao Huigui was making notes in his book, not looking up, not listening carefully.

“Everyone raising their left hand won’t answer; those raising their right hand will.”

Hao Huigui finally understood, smiling, “You’re clever!”

Liu Dazhi chuckled, “You’re my master! I’d do anything for you!”

“Okay, go.”

Liu Dazhi reached the door, then turned back, giving a thumbs-up, reminding Hao Huigui, “Remember, everything depends on your left and right hands!” Hao Huigui waved him away, “What’s yours, mine, his?” He pondered for a moment, self-deprecatingly shaking his head. His primary task was to change Liu Dazhi’s life, then it became easing the tension between Liu Dazhi and Weixiao, and now it was teaching a good public lesson to keep his internship. It seemed his life was always going astray, but this time, Hao Huigui reminded himself to return to the right path, not forgetting why he started.

During the public lesson, everyone was confident. Hao Huigui was deeply moved as he read, “I saw him wearing a black cloth cap, a black cloth long gown, a dark blue cotton robe, walking shakily to the edge of the railway tracks, slowly bending down…” After reading a few sentences, Hao Huigui choked up. He Shifu was stunned; which teacher cries from the beginning of an essay? He nervously watched the Education Bureau leaders’ faces, but everyone seemed immersed in Hao Huigui’s emotions. Liu Dazhi wasn’t listening to Hao Huigui; he was waiting for the hand-raising performance. He saw Weixiao intently watching Hao Huigui’s face, a little dazed.

“We’ve talked about the central idea of this essay; you might find it hard to understand now. Now, let’s close our books and talk about what kind of person your father is.”

Liu Dazhi eagerly raised his right hand. Many students also raised their hands, some right, some left. Feng Meili and Wang Pangzi raised their left hands. As class monitor, Weixiao should answer this question, especially since she grew up with her father; her understanding of fatherly love was deeper than other students. Because of this depth, Weixiao remained silent. As a daughter, Weixiao’s father was very considerate of her feelings in every detail. As Weixiao grew up, she didn’t want her father to worry, didn’t want him to spend more energy on her; she learned to hide her emotions. Everything was fine; she could solve everything herself, not wanting her father to worry.

She had so much she wanted to say to her father, but not a single word came out. In her view, only her own happiness was the best way to repay him.

Liu Dazhi saw Chen Xiaowu hadn’t moved, frantically signaling him to raise his hand. Chen Xiaowu, gritting his teeth, timidly raised his right hand. Although Liu Dazhi had said raising your right hand meant you wouldn’t answer, he was still worried about what would happen if he was called on. At this moment, the female leader from the Education Bureau, sitting in the back row, gently patted Chen Xiaowu’s shoulder, whispering, “Classmate, wanting to answer a question is something truly remarkable. But if you want to be seen among everyone, you must have more confidence. Please raise your hand higher, so the whole world can see your desire.” Chen Xiaowu’s face turned pale with fright, but he had no choice but to raise his right hand a little higher. He looked back at the leader, who nodded, smiling encouragingly, urging him to raise it even higher. Chen Xiaowu, gritting his teeth, raised his hand to its highest point, becoming the focus of the entire class. He silently prayed, “Please don’t call on me; those raising their right hands won’t answer.”

Liu Dazhi turned his head, “My god, even if it’s to create atmosphere, it doesn’t have to be this exaggerated.”

Seeing this, He Shifu immediately winked at Hao Huigui, signaling him to call on Chen Xiaowu. Hao Huigui was also stunned, quickly recalling: Chen Xiaowu shouldn’t answer, right? But He Shifu kept winking, and Hao Huigui couldn’t pretend not to see.

“Chen Xiaowu!”

Chen Xiaowu’s heart sank. The whole class was stunned; some secretly looked at Hao Huigui, some at Liu Dazhi, some at Chen Xiaowu. Liu Dazhi looked utterly hopeless. Chen Xiaowu also looked hopelessly at Liu Dazhi—wasn’t it agreed that raising your right hand meant you wouldn’t be called on?

The classroom was deathly silent, except for the Education Bureau leader’s cough. Chen Xiaowu had no choice but to stand up nervously, “My… my dad died…” Dingdang almost choked on her saliva, thinking, *Brutal!*

Hao Huigui was also stunned, wanting to say something, his lips moving, then pausing, “My condolences. I’m sorry, I’m new here and don’t know the situation well.”

Hao Huigui gestured for Chen Xiaowu to sit down. Chen Xiaowu let out a huge sigh of relief. The other students’ expressions also shifted from tense to relaxed. The female leader from the Education Bureau suddenly stood up and walked towards Chen Xiaowu. She patted Chen Xiaowu’s shoulder, speaking gently, “Child, don’t be sad. Although your father is gone, his image and voice must remain in your heart, right? Think about what your father was like—wasn’t he tall and strong? Wasn’t he the pillar of your family? Wasn’t he the person you respected most?”

Chen Xiaowu nodded dumbly in response to each question. The students struggled to suppress their laughter. After comforting Chen Xiaowu, the leader said, “Teacher Hao, we should encourage and help him, let him speak his heart.”

Hao Huigui was completely bewildered. The leader looked at Chen Xiaowu gently, “Come, child, tell us about your story with your father. Don’t be afraid; the teacher supports you, and we’ll share your burden!” She gestured for Chen Xiaowu to bravely stand up. Everyone’s gaze fell on Chen Xiaowu. His face flushed, he stood up nervously, swallowed, and composed himself.

“My dad sold bean sprouts. He… wasn’t tall, and my mom wasn’t well, so my dad was the sole breadwinner. He’d go to his stall before dawn. Late at night, he’d still be sprouting beans, changing the water. Many times, I wanted to drop out of school to help him, but he… he firmly refused. He wanted me to study hard, become a cultured and successful person, not do manual labor like him, not be looked down upon. I’m not good enough! I’ve always been a poor student, but my dad never criticized me, always encouraging me not to give up. But… a car accident cruelly took his life…”

Chen Xiaowu became increasingly emotional. The classroom was silent. The leader’s face was filled with compassion, her eyes brimming with tears. After composing himself, Chen Xiaowu continued, “After Dad left, the first time I got up to change the bean sprout water, I realized how cold it was. When I bent over and stood up straight, my waist was numb. When I lifted the bean sprouts onto the cart, I realized how heavy they were. It wasn’t the bean sprouts or the basin that was heavy, but the responsibility on Dad’s shoulders. That’s when I understood how hard it was for Dad. Although Dad was short, in my heart, he was very tall, and I want to be like him, supporting our family. I know Dad is watching me from heaven. I want to tell him, I’m not afraid.” As he spoke, tears welled up in his eyes, and he began to cry. Some students also silently wiped away tears. Liu Dazhi struggled to suppress his laughter, his face turning purple.

The leader was the first to applaud, looking moved at the other leaders, murmuring, “What a man, what a good child.”

Thunderous applause erupted.

Liu Dazhi gave a thumbs-up. Chen Xiaowu tossed his hair, wiped his tears, and looked smug. With Chen Xiaowu’s groundwork, the following students’ speeches were heartfelt and sincere, each story imbued with the sentiment of Zhu Ziqing’s “Father’s Back.”

Listening, Hao Huigui decided to visit his father in the hospital after class, although he didn’t know what to say, he just wanted to see him. He made a heartfelt concluding remark, “Before, when we talked about mother-son relationships, it was mostly about love and tolerance. Today, when we talk about father-son relationships, it’s more about forbearance and understanding. If understanding a mother’s love is because we are grateful, then understanding a father’s love is because we have learned to grow. Thank you everyone, that’s all for today’s class, class dismissed!”

The students replied in unison, “Thank you, Teacher!”

Weixiao looked thoughtful. Everyone happily left the classroom.

The female leader walked up to Hao Huigui, firmly shaking his hand, “Teacher Hao! So moving!” “The leader’s guidance was excellent! Without your guidance, today’s class wouldn’t have been so vivid,” He Shifu quickly added, “Teacher Hao is the new star of Hunan No. 5 High School’s liberal arts department! We hope he can make the liberal arts department shine!” Before Hao Huigui could savor the moment, he looked up and saw Chen Tong standing at the office door with his backpack, behind him stood the head of the science department—Zhao, the math teacher, whose few remaining hairs on his bald head trembled with anger.

“There are some things I don’t want to explain.
If I must, it’s because I want to make my own choices.”

Everyone walked towards the school gate after school. Liu Dazhi suddenly chuckled, “You really did it, you acted so well!” Chen Xiaowu was still lost in self-admiration, “I don’t know what happened, but as I spoke, I felt it was real.” “呸呸呸 (peipeipei) [a sound to ward off bad luck], bad luck! Quickly pat a tree, hurry!”

Chen Xiaowu was particularly anxious, jumping into the bushes and patting a tree several times.

“Why are you patting a tree?”

“If you say something unlucky, you have to pat a tree!”

There was a sound in the bushes. Chen Xiaowu curiously parted the bushes, revealing half a cement pipe, and saw a dying puppy. Its mother was nowhere to be seen. Chen Xiaowu reached out to the puppy. It instinctively licked his hand.

“What are you doing? Let’s go.”

Chen Xiaowu ignored Liu Dazhi, looking concerned at the puppy, “Where’s your mother?”

Liu Dazhi, hands in his pockets, watched him, his eyes catching sight of Chen Tong’s parents walking towards the school building with serious expressions. He patted Chen Xiaowu, “I have a feeling, something big is about to happen!”

In the office, several head teachers from the science department, Hao Huigui, and Chen Tong stood solemnly.

He Shifu pushed his glasses in disbelief, “Say that again?”

Chen Tong said expressionlessly, “I want to transfer to the liberal arts department.”

All the teachers looked incredulous.

Teacher Zhao: “Chen Tong, this isn’t a time for impulsive decisions; this is your life.”

Chen Tong said flatly, “This is the life I choose.”

He Shifu saw that Chen Tong would rebel whenever Zhao spoke, so he quickly interjected, “You and Teacher Zhao had a disagreement today, but that’s over. You’re in the best science class in the entire grade, and most of your teachers are your sister’s teachers. Look at your sister—the top science student in the district, she got into Tsinghua University, and now she’s at the University of Hong Kong—isn’t that great? You’re also number one, and the class monitor. Everyone has high hopes for you. Like your sister, you have every chance of getting into Tsinghua University.”

Teacher Zhao completely ignored Hao Huigui’s presence, “That’s right, what future do you have transferring to the liberal arts department?”

Hao Huigui couldn’t help but say, “You can’t say that…”

He Shifu signaled Hao Huigui to participate, “Teacher Hao, this isn’t about saving face; the liberal arts department is in this situation—you need to consider the bigger picture!” Teacher Zhao completely ignored Hao Huigui, “Your math and science are so good, studying liberal arts is a waste. Have you thought about that?”

Hao Huigui changed his approach, “We should ask him why he wants to transfer to the liberal arts department.”

The room fell silent, everyone looking at Chen Tong. Chen Tong’s parents pushed open the door. Chen Tong turned to Hao Huigui, “Teacher Hao, I’ll start attending classes in the liberal arts department tomorrow…” Then he turned and left. Liu Dazhi and Chen Xiaowu stood outside, exchanging glances.

Everyone in the office was dumbfounded.

The top science student in Hunan No. 5 High School wanted to transfer to the liberal arts department; all the teachers felt the sky was falling.

Chen Tong’s father: “What? Transfer to liberal arts? He must be joking!”

Chen Tong’s mother: “Teacher Zhao, what happened to him?”

Teacher Zhao: “Hao Huigui, you can’t take Chen Tong. The top science student absolutely cannot go to the liberal arts department! If you take him, I’ll fight you!”

Hao Huigui was speechless.

Liu Dazhi immediately ran to the broadcasting room and told Weixiao and Dingdang. Dingdang was shocked speechless.

“Really?”

“First-hand news—they’re still in the office. Let me tell you, Zhao’s few remaining hairs all stood on end, and he threatened Teacher Hao not to accept Chen Tong. I’ve never seen him so angry; it was exhilarating.”

Dingdang recovered, “You mean Chen Tong will be in our class tomorrow?”

“There’s no other liberal arts class in our grade.”

Dingdang excitedly said, “He’ll be in our class, attending classes and doing exercises together?”

Liu Dazhi rolled his eyes at Dingdang, “He’ll also go to the bathroom with us…”

Weixiao said questioningly, “Why does he want to transfer to our liberal arts class?”

Liu Dazhi mysteriously said, “It’s said he had a falling out with Teacher Zhao.”

Weixiao suddenly laughed. Liu Dazhi’s heart sank.

“If Chen Tong really comes to the liberal arts class, it’s good for the class. At least, the liberal arts class won’t be ignored.”

“Weixiao, don’t you like Chen Tong too?” Dingdang leaned close to Weixiao.

Liu Dazhi’s face froze; he’d been gossiping and forgotten to guard against this.

“Impossible, Chen Tong is yours.” Weixiao laughed, organizing the song request slips.

Liu Dazhi felt a surge of anger; Chen Tong hadn’t even arrived, and he was already restless. In the office, Chen Tong’s parents, He Shifu, and Teacher Zhao were arguing. Hao Huigui sat quietly, watching them. He never knew there was such a big argument behind Chen Tong’s transfer to the liberal arts department. Everyone had their own interpretation of the event. Hao Huigui was lost in thought—if Chen Tong hadn’t transferred to the liberal arts department, would he have gotten into Tsinghua University? If he stopped Chen Tong now, would it be better for him? He was thinking…

“Teacher Hao.” He Shifu called him.

“Mm.” Hao Huigui snapped back to attention.

“What’s your opinion?”

“Maybe… let him come to the liberal arts department tomorrow…” Hao Huigui tentatively replied.

“Let him come for two days, and he’ll regret it!” Teacher Zhao sneered.

“Then he can transfer back,” Hao Huigui thought, as long as he steps into the liberal arts department, he’ll never leave. I’ll drive you crazy.

Everyone fell silent.

He Shifu said, “Yes, excessive pressure will only make him more rebellious; it’s better to let things be. Parents, don’t worry too much; he must be under too much pressure.”

“Our science department welcomes him back anytime.”

“So that’s it?” Hao Huigui was about to leave. He Shifu stopped him, “Teacher Hao, this is important. You seem to understand education well. Chen Tong is transferring tomorrow; you must do your best to reassure him.”

This became the talk of the entire school. Everyone wanted to know what happened.

Chen Tong called home, “Mm, I’ve decided.” His sister, Chen Cheng, was on the other end, “Since you’ve decided, I support you. Should I talk to Mom and Dad again?”

“No, hang up.” Chen Tong returned to the dinner table, “National Day, Sister isn’t coming home.”

Chen Tong’s mother: “What else did she say?”

“Nothing.”

Chen Tong’s father said sternly, “Your choice determines your future life. I absolutely won’t allow you to make such a rash decision.”

Chen Tong’s mother: “There are so many science classes; if you’re unhappy, we can change schools.”

Chen Tong looked at them, silent.