My heart raced intensely.

When discussing with Lu Qin, he remained silent for a long time.

I knew a year was a long time.

I also found it hard to part with him.

But love isn't everything in life.

Nor is it the entirety of my existence.

I wanted to become the best version of myself.

Whether in love or career, I strived for excellence.

'Do what you want. I'll wait for you at home.'

This was Lu Qin's final answer.

He told me although reluctant,

and worried long-distance might change us,

he wouldn't let selfishness stop my growth.

Later while studying abroad,

my mother revealed during a video call:

'Your father was hospitalized recently - stomach perforation.'

I was shocked, having known nothing.

She reassured me he'd recovered,

'Thanks to Xiao Lu.'

'When your father collapsed, I trembled calling 120.

Lu Qin regularly checked on us - he carried your dad to hospital.'

Tears welled up as I whispered:

'Meeting him was my greatest blessing.'

7.

Excelling academically, I completed exchange studies 2 months early.

My British mentor offered a job, which I declined.

'My husband waits in China,' I explained.

That night, I secretly flew back.

At Lu Qin's lecture in A University,

I sneaked in with flowers.

There he stood - black suit, as handsome as ever,

making dry legal codes come alive.

When a student confessed to him,

I rose wearing sunglasses (for drama),

declaring: 'He's mine!'

Lu Qin's eyes shone with surprise and joy.

'When did you return?'

'Just landed. Surprise!' I grinned.

Ignoring curious students, he whispered hoarsely:

'Welcome home, my love.'

8.

That night, Lu Qin 'tormented' me thoroughly.

As he carried me to bathe, I lay dazed.

'Apologies, lost control,' he said.

Considering I'd left him for a year, I forgave him.

But next day - again!

His broken whispers of 'Momo'

nearly sent me to heaven.

After a week's 'feast', I protested.

Even when he promised restraint,

I moved to guest room.

Midnight found me sweating -

he'd sneaked in, clinging tight.

'Momo, I missed you this year,' he murmured.

I corrected: '4 months 9 days - we met七夕节!'

His sweet words melted me.

As we kissed, things escalated...

Before exhaustion claimed me,

I saw his triumphant smile - tricked again!

Next morning, evading his kisses,

I croaked: 'Professor Lu, this is harassment.'

He laughed, caressing my face:

'Time to rise, wife.'

Sunlight silhouetted his white sweater-clad figure.

I hugged him, kissing his cheek:

'Good morning, Professor~'

In his embrace, time stood still.

Our story never ends.

(The End)