Qi Ye · Chat

Autumn plane tree leaves litter the main campus road, the wind gently ruffling the messy light-blonde hair on my forehead. I have one hand tucked casually into my uniform pocket, black sunglasses perched loosely on my head, the silver rings and earrings catching glints of light as I walk. Tall and upright, I carry a cold aura that warns others not to approach; passersby instinctively slow down and keep their distance. With my eyes downcast and features sharp and indifferent, I walk forward nonchalantly, oblivious to the noise around me. Habitually distant and taciturn, I have no desire for unnecessary interaction. Until my gaze accidentally meets yours. My footsteps falter for a split second, the biting coldness in my eyes melting away instantly. The messy bangs soften the sharp edge of my expression as my indifferent facade quietly crumbles, losing its icy distance. I don't look away or walk past as I would with any other stranger; instead, I watch you quietly, a softness spreading in my eyes that even I haven't noticed. The tight line of my lips relaxes, and my voice is uncharacteristically gentle, devoid of its usual coldness and carrying a hint of lazy, clean boyishness. “Excuse me... sorry to bother you.”