Rebirth of Wu Tong

Chapter 13

The next day, after Wu Tong had delivered the purchased gifts, she began to study diligently with Wan Qing. Although Wu Tong had completed high school in the capital, the time gap and her initial struggles with academics made studying a bit challenging. Wan Qing, without any foundation, faced even greater difficulties. Fortunately, his intelligent mind compensated for his lack of prior education, and spending extra time studying books and solving problems seemed manageable.

Now financially stable, Wu Tong no longer had to compromise on her meals. While not indulging in extravagant dishes every day, there was a noticeable improvement from before, with more oil used in cooking. Wan Qing, who doubled as the chef, also gained some weight, looking healthier. However, in the past few days, he seemed preoccupied with something, frequently losing focus during study sessions, and his furrowed brows concerned Wu Tong.

"Wan Qing, what's bothering you? Is something wrong? Talk to me; maybe I can help with some advice," Wu Tong inquired, hoping Wan Qing would open up. However, realizing his reluctance, she had to press further.

"Ah? Oh, nothing really. How do you solve this math problem?" Wan Qing attempted to deflect the conversation, but Wu Tong wasn't willing to drop the previous topic. Concerned for his well-being, she confronted him.

"Don't try to change the subject. Tell me what's going on! Do you still consider me an outsider? Keeping everything from me, don't you think it hurts my feelings? I've always treated you like family..." Wu Tong feigned a saddened expression, secretly pleased with the discomfort Wan Qing displayed.

"I didn't treat you as an outsider. Okay, I'll tell you, alright? Don't be upset..." Wan Qing, with a flushed face, hesitated for a moment, as if building mental fortitude. "I'm just worried about the tuition fees if I get into college. You know, apart from that old courtyard and house, I don't have anything else..."

Wan Qing had a desire to explore the world beyond their small village, but the practical difficulties were evident. Each night, he sat alone by the old tree at the foot of the mountain, contemplating the vast starry sky and the flowing river, lost in indescribable thoughts. He was aware of the rich and colorful world beyond their enclosed mountain village. Moreover, he deeply realized that the college entrance exam was an opportunity, a chance to escape the monotonous life and add color to his own existence. However, seizing this opportunity wasn't straightforward; it required not only genuine talent but also financial support. Returning to his shabby courtyard after such contemplation, reality struck hard.

Observing Wan Qing's expression of helplessness and frustration, Wu Tong sighed deeply. Indeed, for an orphan without parents and in poverty, going to college was a distant dream. Even if he had the ability and knowledge, financial constraints might deprive him of this rare opportunity. However, money was not an issue for Wu Tong, and with Wan Qing being recommended by his deceased father to the village leader, the chance seemed promising.

"Don't worry. Isn't there still your sister? Let me tell you a secret; she's quite wealthy and can easily support your college education!" Wu Tong said confidently, but deep down, she hesitated. Supporting Wan Qing financially would require revealing her own background, a secret she had kept for years. If Wan Qing accepted, he would likely express gratitude to her "parents," exposing the truth. On the other hand, if she withheld this support, she felt guilty, knowing it could impact the course of his life. Considering the previous life's hardships Wan Qing endured for her sake, Wu Tong decided to be honest with him.

"Your parents..." Wan Qing, pragmatic and considerate, wouldn't let his ego hinder such an opportunity. Yet, having learned from Chu Qing's stories, he understood that Wu Tong's parents weren't particularly affectionate, and he didn't want to burden Wu Tong with potential conflicts. "They aren't my biological parents. I trust you, so I'm telling you this. Can you promise not to disclose it to anyone?" Wu Tong asked sternly, emphasizing the importance of keeping the secret.

"Of course, I can promise." Although Wan Qing's assurance was brief, Wu Tong found comfort. Some people rarely made promises, but when they did, they always kept them. Wan Qing seemed to be one of those individuals.

"I believe you. Actually, I remembered this incident after recovering from a severe illness when I first arrived in our village... (Omitted details). Understand? Now, I don't have the ability to confront those people, so I'll continue pretending not to know anything. Therefore, the fewer people who know about this, the better, including Chu Qing. Got it?" Wu Tong explained her predicament, and while Wan Qing might not fully grasp the emotional weight, he sensed the importance and seriousness.

"I won't talk recklessly. Don't overthink it. Those people aren't worth your time and energy," Wan Qing, not adept at comforting others, sounded somewhat awkward, but Wu Tong appreciated the warmth. Indeed, those individuals were not worth her emotional investment. Ignoring them was the best choice, and Wu Tong was not a forgiving person when provoked.

"You're right. I won't care. It's a waste of time and energy. Well, problem solved. Let's focus on studying; you must strive for the best college. The three of us will go to the best university together!" Wu Tong patted Wan Qing's shoulder, exuding confidence.

"Yes, I will definitely get into a good university!" Wan Qing, now filled with youthful enthusiasm, echoed the commitment. He seemed like a vibrant sixteen-year-old boy, shedding the gloominess of the past and embracing the potential of a brighter future.