111
In the class period before school ended, Zhao Wu-Ji passed by Ya-Xin’s desk. After first confirming that no one was around, he left a rose and a small card, then quickly slipped away.

Ya-Xin returned after class and saw a rose placed on her desk, along with a card inside an envelope. After opening it, a sketch of a cartoon version of Ya-Xin appeared before her eyes. Following the “instructions” written on the card, Ya-Xin curiously turned on the computer screen. In the email inbox, she indeed found a message written by the man who had sent the rose. The email invited her to Maokong for tea, to taste local mountain cuisine at a tea shop, and also said: “Don’t miss it.”

Ya-Xin looked at the clock. This man who deliberately signed as “anonymous,” yet was not actually very mysterious, should already have set off for the meeting place. Ya-Xin did not want the other party to wait in vain, so she decided to go meet him. Although she already had a strong feeling in her heart that this person was most likely Zhao Wu-Ji—after all, only he at school was skilled at drawing comics.

Ya-Xin arrived at the side gate of NCCU. As expected, Zhao Wu-Ji’s car was already waiting there.

Ya-Xin said apologetically: “Teacher Zhao, thank you for your kindness. I must immediately return to Tamsui. I have a choir accompaniment job at the Presbyterian Church there. I don’t want you to wait in vain, so I came over to tell you.”

Zhao Wu-Ji could not hide his disappointment, but still said without giving up: “What bad timing. Then, shall we reschedule for tomorrow?”

Ya-Xin said: “Tomorrow might not work either. I have music classroom classes to teach.”

Zhao Wu-Ji said: “I see? Then how about this weekend? I’ll go to Tamsui to find you and take you out to relax.”

Ya-Xin said: “On the weekend I need to stay at church to help. I’m really sorry.”

Zhao Wu-Ji thought to himself: “Who is this busy? Could it be that she already has a boyfriend and is deliberately saying this to make me back off?”

Zhao Wu-Ji looked awkward but quickly said: “It’s okay. When you’re free, send me an email. Teacher Qiu, get in the car? I’ll take you to the MRT station.”

Ya-Xin said: “I’m used to taking the bus. I really don’t want to trouble you.”

Zhao Wu-Ji said: “Alright then. See you at school tomorrow.”

Zhao Wu-Ji watched Ya-Xin’s departing figure with a disappointed expression, his emotions mixed. In the past, many girls had taken the initiative to approach him, but he had rejected them. Now that he had finally met a girl who moved his heart, things were not going smoothly. It was truly frustrating.

However, this scene of their meeting was witnessed by a female colleague, Zhang Mei-Ling, who happened to pass by on a scooter. Mei-Ling stopped her scooter and sat astride it, watching from a distance until Ya-Xin turned and left.

Zhang Mei-Ling, who taught Chinese literature, was regarded as a beauty with both temperament and character in the school. She had always had a good impression of Zhao Wu-Ji, who was humorous, talkative, and elegant. The female colleagues who liked to gossip often considered them a golden couple and occasionally encouraged her to express her feelings to Teacher Zhao. However, out of feminine reserve, Mei-Ling had always hesitated. Deep in her heart, she was also waiting for Zhao Wu-Ji to take the initiative, but he remained passive and maintained only a “talkable friend” relationship with her.

The scene she just witnessed awakened her. She suddenly realized that love cannot simply rely on “waiting for the rabbit by the stump.” She recalled a passage from Xi Murong’s poetry collection Unregretful Youth: “When you are young, if you fall in love with someone, please, please treat him gently…”

Mei-Ling thought: “Ya-Xin did not get into Zhao Wu-Ji’s car and instead turned and left. That means she did not accept his invitation…”

At that moment, Mei-Ling decided to “take the initiative” and not leave any regrets for the future.

112
The next day, in the school office, as Zhao Wu-Ji habitually checked his email, he received a message from Mei-Ling. She invited him to take the cable car up to Maokong for tea. This surprised him slightly, but it was not joy, because the female lead was not the “Snow White” he had in mind.

Zhao Wu-Ji looked toward the corner where Qiu Ya-Xin was preparing her lesson. Her elegant and beautiful profile filled him with a sense of melancholy.

He quickly replied to the email, using an excuse to politely decline Mei-Ling. He knew clearly in his heart that unless Ya-Xin explicitly rejected him, there would be no room in his heart or eyes for any other girl.

“Ya-Xin, I will definitely find a way to open your heart and make you accept me…”

Zhao Wu-Ji picked up the teaching materials on the desk and, as the bell rang, left the office with renewed spirit.

After class, Zhao Wu-Ji returned to find a box of chocolates and a card on his desk. He looked at Ya-Xin’s empty seat and immediately knew the sender was not her, but Zhang Mei-Ling. Reading the neat lines on the card, he began to waver: “Should I go to this appointment?”

113
In the end, Zhao Wu-Ji still went to the appointment. At the Maokong teahouse, the two drank Tieguanyin tea and chatted about everything under the sun.

Zhao Wu-Ji, I really envy you for having traveled to so many places. Actually, I don’t want my life to be too ordinary, but my personality makes it hard for me to let go. Unless there is someone like you, well-traveled and willing to take me around the world to experience different cultures…” Mei-Ling said, subtly hinting her intentions. Wu-Ji naturally understood.

Zhao Wu-Ji said enthusiastically: “Reading ten thousand books and traveling ten thousand miles—life should be lived like this. Focus on work when working, but also don’t neglect yourself outside of work. Since I started teaching and have a stable income, I like traveling during summer and winter breaks.”

Mei-Ling immediately agreed: “I completely agree with your philosophy of life.”

Zhao Wu-Ji thought of a possible plan and said: “Teacher Mei-Ling, we can form a travel group. You and I can separately invite colleagues, and I will plan the itinerary.”

Mei-Ling said happily: “Great! With you as the guide, I think everyone will respond enthusiastically. Once you finalize the itinerary, we’ll each go and arrange it.”

Both of them had their own intentions. Mei-Ling wanted to get closer to Wu-Ji and upgrade their friendship, while Wu-Ji hoped to temporarily free Ya-Xin from her busy life so he would have a chance to open her heart.

114
Plans rarely go as expected. Although many colleagues enthusiastically joined the travel group initiated by Wu-Ji, Ya-Xin alone had no intention of participating. This outcome made Wu-Ji feel he had worked in vain.

He reluctantly went to the office to find Mei-Ling.

Zhao Wu-Ji asked: “Mei-Ling, why isn’t Qiu Ya-Xin on the travel list?”

Mei-Ling replied slightly displeased: “Are you suspecting that I deliberately left her out?”

Wu-Ji realized he had asked too directly and said gently: “Sorry, I didn’t mean to doubt you. It’s just that this result is different from what I expected…”

Mei-Ling said: “I personally invited Ya-Xin, but she said she has to stay at the church during her long vacation to help and has no time to join the trip abroad.”

But inside, Mei-Ling thought: “Zhao Wu-Ji, your eyes are only on the half-deaf, half-mute Qiu Ya-Xin. What exactly do I, Zhang Mei-Ling, lack compared to her?”

Hearing this, Wu-Ji felt disappointed. But since the travel group had already formed, it could not be disbanded just because the main person he wanted was absent. Still, he lost his enthusiasm.

He decided then to make a special trip to Tamsui over the weekend to meet Ya-Xin. If the atmosphere was right, he would confess his feelings.

115
On Saturday around noon, in the chapel of the Tamsui Presbyterian Church, Qiu Ya-Xin was accompanying the choir on stage.

Zhao Wu-Ji, dressed in tasteful casual clothing, appeared at the entrance and sat in the back row, listening to the hymns.

After the performance ended, Ya-Xin stepped down from the stage. Wu-Ji followed her to the rehearsal room, lightly knocking on the wooden door. Ya-Xin turned around, slightly surprised: “Ah!”

“Teacher Qiu,” Wu-Ji said with a smile, “please forgive this uninvited guest.”

Ya-Xin said: “It is indeed unexpected, Teacher Zhao.”

Wu-Ji said: “I just enjoyed your wonderful piano accompaniment. It was truly refreshing.”

Ya-Xin said: “Thank you.”

Wu-Ji said: “Are you free now? I would like to talk with you.”

116
Ya-Xin and Wu-Ji strolled along the riverside embankment alley in Tamsui.

Wu-Ji said: “Ya-Xin, seeing you devote yourself so wholeheartedly to the church, this spirit of dedication is worthy of my respect.”

Ya-Xin said: “I originally learned piano at the church. The church has given me a lot of things.”

Wu-Ji said: “I originally thought you were deliberately avoiding me. Only now do I realize I was the one who misunderstood.”

Ya-Xin said: “Teacher Zhao, actually you were not wrong. Mei-Ling has always been expecting something from you, hasn’t she?”

Wu-Ji asked: “Who did you hear that from?”

Ya-Xin said: “In school, you and Mei-Ling are regarded as the golden couple. Didn’t colleagues all say so? I think you and Mei-Ling are a perfect match—talented and beautiful, truly well-matched.”

Wu-Ji smiled bitterly and said: “I understand. So you deliberately avoided me and gave me no chance.”

Ya-Xin said: “That is one of the reasons. I had no intention of interfering between you two. Moreover, I already have a stable boyfriend. He is studying for a master’s degree in music in the United States, so I don’t want to give you a beautiful misunderstanding.”

Wu-Ji asked in shock: “So… you already have a boyfriend?”

Ya-Xin said: “Mm. During university, there were boys who tried to pursue me, but I turned them all down.”

Wu-Ji said: “But before you get married, you still have choices, don’t you?”

Ya-Xin said: “I am the kind of person who is quite stubborn emotionally. I don’t change feelings easily.”

Wu-Ji realized that Ya-Xin would never accept him. His mood fell to the bottom, and he said dejectedly: “I can only say—we met too late.”

Ya-Xin comforted him: “You still have Mei-Ling by your side. She is a good girl. Please cherish her and treat her well.”

Wu-Ji let out a long sigh: “Falling flowers intend to follow flowing water, but flowing water is heartless toward falling flowers…”

Ya-Xin laughed and said: “Your metaphor is a bit strange. Since when did the girl become the flowing water?”

Wu-Ji said: “Haven’t you heard the saying? Women are made of water. I didn’t say anything wrong. Ya-Xin, when you smile, you are truly beautiful… truly beautiful…”

Ya-Xin said: “Thank you for your compliment.”

Wu-Ji raised his right hand and said: “This is not flattery. It is sincere praise. I swear to heaven!”

Ya-Xin said: “You really are a very gentlemanly man. No wonder many female colleagues and students admire you.”

Wu-Ji said: “Don’t tease me anymore! This is my first confession to a girl, and it ended in complete defeat. But unless you get married, I will not give up!”

Ya-Xin said: “Teacher Zhao, why must you suffer like this?”

117
In the corridor outside the music classroom, Li Zi-Xuan, dressed in a suit, held a bouquet of flowers. Students curiously watched him and whispered among themselves.

When the bell rang, Ya-Xin walked out of the classroom. Zi-Xuan stepped forward and offered the flowers. This action caused a commotion among teachers and students. Zi-Xuan then took Ya-Xin’s hand and kissed her. The surrounding students burst into thunderous cheers.

From a corner of the corridor not far away, Zhao Wu-Ji watched this “proposal” scene with a lonely expression. In another corner, Zhang Mei-Ling, holding a stack of exercise books, was also watching Wu-Ji. Her emotions were mixed with slight pity, but more so with hidden delight.

118
A new semester began. As usual, Ya-Xin walked into the music classroom, preparing to face a group of new students full of passion for music.

While students introduced themselves and performed talents one by one, Ya-Xin noticed a male student wearing a hearing aid, holding an old violin. The boy bravely introduced himself in a strained voice: “My name is Lin Ting-Li. I have just started learning violin. I am not good at playing yet. Please don’t mind me…”

Then he began to play. However, the violin was so old and worn that the sound was harsh and grating. The classmates immediately responded with disgusted boos and laughter.

Student A said: “What is this? Someone slaughtering a chicken?”
Student B said: “Oh my god~~ ear-piercing noise, worse than ghost screams!”
Student C said: “Please stop playing. I’m about to mentally collapse…”

Such a strong reaction made Lin Ting-Li extremely embarrassed. He stopped playing awkwardly and sat down with a red face.

Ya-Xin said: “Students, you are all gentlemen and ladies. Please maintain proper manners!”

Only then did the class quiet down. Ya-Xin continued seriously: “Actually, I appreciate Student Lin. He clearly said he just started learning violin and is not good at it, asking everyone not to mind. Yet you still booed him. That is not appropriate. I myself, when I first studied music, also suffered a lot. I endured many strange looks and criticisms. Because I have hearing and speech impairments, I had to work even harder than normal people to overcome these difficulties. That is why I am able to stand here today…”

The students listened and gradually lowered their heads, no longer daring to make a sound.

119
After class, students left the classroom one by one. Ya-Xin called out: “Ting-Li, stay. The teacher has something to tell you.”

Through her questioning, she learned that Lin Ting-Li had a strong passion for music, especially the violin. However, due to financial difficulties and the lack of a proper learning environment, he had been unable to study properly.

Hearing this, Ya-Xin recalled her own past situation and decided to help this boy so that he could develop his talent and realize his dream.

Ya-Xin said: “Your dedication to learning an instrument, the teacher recognizes it. I would like to introduce you to my mentor. He will be willing to guide your practice.”

Ting-Li said: “Thank you, teacher. But I cannot afford expensive tuition…”

Ya-Xin said: “You don’t need to worry about tuition. As long as you truly want to learn violin, Teacher Si-Yang will not charge you. This Saturday at 10 a.m., come to the entrance of Dream Café at Fisherman’s Wharf and find me.”

Ting-Li said happily: “Yes, teacher.”

120
On Saturday morning at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf, tourists gathered in small groups.

Lin Ting-Li arrived in front of the café carrying his violin case. Ya-Xin stood up from her seat and waved: “Student Lin!”

Ting-Li walked up and bowed: “Teacher.”

Ya-Xin took out a violin case from her backpack and said: “This violin is for you.”

Ting-Li hesitated and refused: “Teacher, I cannot accept something so valuable…”

Ya-Xin interrupted: “This violin has been with me for many years. It was given to me by a high school classmate and good friend. I have always treasured it. Now I have found it a new owner. I know you will cherish it just like I did. Please accept it, Ting-Li.”

Ya-Xin placed the violin into his hands. Ting-Li was so moved that his eyes turned red: “Teacher, thank you!”

Ya-Xin said: “I believe it will help you realize your dream. Keep going!”

Ya-Xin then took Ting-Li to the performance area to meet Si-Yang: “Big brother, I brought a student to meet you.”

Si-Yang saw Ting-Li wearing a hearing aid and smiled: “Ya-Xin, welcome!”

Ya-Xin briefly explained Ting-Li’s situation to Si-Yang.

Si-Yang said emotionally: “Student Lin, your teacher Ya-Xin had a similar situation in the past. She also had hearing impairments. She trained with me, overcame her physical limitations and many difficulties, and achieved what she has today. As long as you are willing to learn seriously, you will definitely carve out your own sky…”

Ting-Li listened, feeling inspired, and his face showed a bright, sunny smile.

121
On a sunny afternoon, Ya-Xin and Zi-Xuan were walking along Tamsui Old Street. From afar, they heard a beautiful violin concerto. Curious, they approached and discovered Si-Yang and Ting-Li each playing a violin, performing in perfect coordination and producing a beautiful melody.

Zi-Xuan pointed and said: “That short-haired boy—is he the student you introduced to big brother?”

Ya-Xin said: “Yes! Look how well the master and disciple coordinate.”

Zi-Xuan smiled and said: “Ya-Xin, you have good judgment. That child is truly unpolished jade.”

Passersby were attracted by the beautiful music and stopped to watch. After each piece ended, the audience erupted in thunderous applause. Seeing this, Ya-Xin and Zi-Xuan exchanged a knowing smile.

Si-Yang and Ting-Li then saw Ya-Xin and Zi-Xuan at the edge of the crowd and waved to them…

—— (The End) ——