Chapter 6

After the big drama last night, I woke up this morning not feeling tired at all. On the contrary, I was full of energy, only with a faint sense of loss, a strange feeling I couldn't quite put into words. Just then, I heard my mom knocking on the door.

"Xiao Wen, are you up? It's time to get ready to go." Right, we're going hiking today. Hearing my mom's call, I thought of Teacher Qin again.

***

"Oh, oh." After hearing her explanation, I just buried my head in my food. A moment later, someone knocked on the door. Mom answered it and saw Xinran walk in, looking dejected. Mom quickly asked,

"What's wrong, Xinran? You don't look happy."

I didn't even have to think to know it must be that Teacher Qin said she wasn't going. But if she doesn't go, we'll all be at home, so she won't be able to do anything anyway.

"Auntie Lin, my mom said she's not feeling well, so she's not going today."

Mom could tell that Xinran wanted to go. Thinking that there was nothing else to do at home today, she simply said,

"It's fine if she can't make it. The three of us can go. It's no big deal without her."

Xinran's face lit up after hearing this.

****

"Mom, Xinran, my stomach hurts a bit. I'm going to the bathroom. You guys go on ahead." I couldn't think of a better excuse, so I had to make something up. I'd figure it out after I got back.

After my mom and Xinran were out of sight, I immediately hailed a cab and went home. Then I sent a message to my mom, saying I felt dizzy and my stomach hurt, probably from eating something bad yesterday. I was going to the hospital by myself and they shouldn't wait for me. She and Xinran should have fun. Mom didn't say much, but a moment later, Xinran sent a message, sounding quite anxious, asking how I was and when I would be back to meet up with them. I felt a warm sense of comfort from Xinran's concern. After reassuring her, I arrived home.

*****