As the college entrance examination approached, in the final month, Mike’s mother made a suggestion—let Lizza move in with the Slow family. This would reduce the hassle of commuting to school, and the two could focus more on preparing for the exam.
“You both have been studying intensely during this time. Living together will help you supervise each other, and the results will be even better,” Mike’s mother said, her eyes revealing expectations for their future. “Moreover, this way your schedules will be more flexible, and you can communicate more with each other.”
Upon hearing this, Lizza’s heart trembled slightly. She nervously thought that moving to the Slow family would mean significantly more time spent with Mike, which excited her but also made her a bit afraid. Although their relationship was already deep, she still felt a bit anxious in such an intimate environment.
“What do you think?” Mike looked at her, smiling slightly, his eyes filled with encouragement. “If you feel it’s inconvenient, we don’t have to do it.”
Lizza pondered for a moment and then nodded slightly: “I think this idea is great. We can study together and look out for each other.”
Thus, with the joint coordination of both parents, Lizza began her new life at the Slow family. Mike’s home was spacious, with a dedicated study room that allowed them to study quietly. Every morning, they would have breakfast together and then dive into their studies, occasionally exchanging thoughts and sharing insights.
Lizza and Mike’s efforts became increasingly diligent. They buried themselves in their desks every day, hoping to fulfill their dream of attending the same university in this crucial exam. Faced with the heavy academic pressure, their moods began to tighten, but each other’s company made this difficult time feel a bit easier.
During this month, Mike’s mother always prepared rich meals for them and would occasionally tease them: “You two are studying so hard that I’m a bit worried. If you get into college, don’t forget about your aunt!” Although her words were playful, they also revealed her expectations for their future.
Lizza secretly vowed to give her all in the exam, not to let anyone down. She increasingly felt that her relationship with Mike was not just that of study partners but also a spiritual support for each other.
A week before the exam, however, Mike suddenly told Lizza: “I won’t be home today.” Lizza looked up, filled with confusion, “Where are you going?”
“I have some things to take care of and might be back late,” Mike’s voice carried a hint of apology.
Lizza felt a bit uneasy, “Then make sure to handle it well and don’t tire yourself out.” She couldn’t help but put down her book, concern evident in her eyes.
“Don’t worry, I will,” Mike smiled and patted her head, “You focus on studying at home and don’t get distracted.” After saying that, he hurriedly left, leaving Lizza alone at the desk, pondering over Mike’s matters.
With Mike’s departure, Lizza felt an inexplicable emptiness. She tried to refocus, but many anxious thoughts surfaced in her mind. On one hand, she thought about her exam; on the other hand, she couldn’t help but worry about Mike’s situation.
“What could he possibly be doing?” Lizza kept speculating in her heart, unable to extricate herself. Her fingers unconsciously slid over the pages of her book, but her eyes couldn’t focus. Although she knew Mike was a very opinionated person, whenever he wasn’t around, she felt a wave of unease, as if she had lost some kind of support.
The pressure of the exam already made her feel breathless, and now worrying about Mike’s matters made her mood even heavier. She recalled the past, how Mike had always been there to support her, whether it was difficulties in studying or troubles in life. Thinking of this, a warmth surged in her heart, but it was soon swallowed by unease.
“Should I call him to ask?” Lizza hesitated, then thought that doing so might seem too anxious. She took a deep breath, telling herself to focus on studying first and to wait until Mike returned. However, every time she tried to refocus, Mike’s smile and his determined gaze flashed through her mind, causing her worries to resurface.
A few hours later, as the light outside gradually dimmed, Lizza decided to take a break. She stood up, walked to the window, and gazed at the setting sun in the west. At that moment, her heart was filled with anticipation for the future, yet she felt helpless about the current predicament. She imagined the days of entering university with Mike but couldn’t help but feel anxious about where he was at that moment.
Just then, her phone rang. Lizza quickly picked it up and saw a message from Mike: “Sorry, I’m stuck in traffic. I’ll be home soon, remember to save some food for me!” Seeing this text, Lizza’s unease eased slightly; at least she knew Mike still cared about her.
“I’ll finish eating, and you take care on the road,” Lizza quickly replied, understanding that although they were separated by distance at that moment, their hearts remained tightly connected. She told herself to work harder, for her future and for the promise with Mike.
As her thoughts returned, Lizza sat back down at her desk, diligently opening her textbooks, silently reciting: “As long as I work hard, I will definitely get into my ideal university and realize my dreams with Mike.” This belief helped her find her direction again and made her more invested in her studies.
The next day was the college entrance examination, and they both knew this would be an important turning point in their lives, as well as a new starting point for their future together.
