Besides his own studies, he reviewed high school materials, prepared lessons, explained problems, and summarized key points, leaving him with little time to rest.

By New Year's Eve, his scholarship, tutoring fees, and competition winnings had accumulated into a substantial sum. He browsed the luxury stores at the mall, but ultimately left empty-handed, overwhelmed by the choices.

Back in his dorm room, he collapsed onto his bed, a worried frown etched on his face. Meng Shan, munching on chestnuts, observed him. “Why so melancholic, with all your bustling around?”

“You wouldn't understand,” Feng Yi sighed.

Meng Shan, author of three romance novels, took exception to this. He hauled Feng Yi up by the scruff of his neck like a disobedient puppy. “This won’t do. You're working yourself to the bone just to buy her a gift. But does that really mean anything? What does a gift prove? Does it prove you're mature? Responsible? That you're better than her ex?”

The barrage of questions left Feng Yi reeling. He covered his face in exasperation. “What else can I do? I'm only eighteen! It's not my fault my mom had me late!”

Meng Shan patted his head. “My lovesick friend, you're being too pessimistic. I don't think your age is a bad thing. What's wrong with being young? You're affectionate, you can be sweet, you're energetic and passionate. Women like that.” His tone shifted slightly. “However, you do need to learn some restraint.”

Feng Yi sprang out of bed and poured Meng Shan a glass of milk. “Here you go, sir.”

Meng Shan wagged a finger. “Popular men fall into a few categories: gentle and considerate, mature and steady, domineering and mysterious, or humorous and charming. Which one are you?”

A wave of insecurity washed over Feng Yi. “None of them.”

“That’s not the main issue. The problem is, none of those types have your biggest flaw.”

Feng Yi gasped.

“Their affection is expressed through romance, thoughtfulness, tenderness, and warmth. Your affection… gives off a ‘gorilla’ vibe.”

“What do you mean?”

“Your affection is like a gorilla pounding its chest and roaring ‘I LIKE YOU!’ at the top of its lungs, shaking the earth.”

Feng Yi considered this. “Oh! It really is!”

Meng Shan patted his shoulder. “So, tone it down. Be reserved, composed. Got it?”

Feng Yi nodded solemnly, abandoning his dramatic pose on the bed and settling down to study.

Finally, the long-awaited New Year's break arrived. The class organized a team-building activity – a hike and photo session for the higher-ups.

At the summit, after the obligatory photos, the girls spotted a massive marriage tree and excitedly rushed over to admire it… Feng Yi followed.

Meng Shan rolled his eyes.

Unfazed, Feng Yi paid for a red ribbon and contemplated his wish. The class beauty approached him. “Feng Yi, are you wishing for good fortune with your girlfriend?”

Feng Yi recognized her vaguely. “Yes,” he replied politely.

Undeterred, even knowing he had a girlfriend, the girl persisted. Feng Yi was handsome, athletic, kind, and a top student–the most eligible bachelor she’d ever met. She wasn't ready to give up.

“I heard you like animals. Your dorm even had a cat.”

Feng Yi, preoccupied with his wish, answered absently, “Yeah, I guess.”

The girl pressed on, her tone a bit sharper. “Are you going to marry your girlfriend?”

The question was abrupt. Feng Yi looked at her, puzzled. “That depends on whether she wants to marry me.”