Extra 3
There are really a lot of people.
Perhaps because of the hot weather, even though the mountain isn’t that high, most people chose to take the cable car up.
Wu Chun and Xu Shi Yao climbed step by step, taking about four hours to get from the foot of the mountain to under that tree.
It really is a striking pine tree.
Wu Chun tugged on Xu Shi Yao, constantly observing his reactions. It’s no wonder he was so nervous; it’s because this guy, who had just left the mountain two years ago, wanted to burrow into a pine tree as soon as he saw one.
But there was no way to squeeze in, and in the end, he bumped his forehead.
Seeing Xu Shi Yao’s eyes fixated on the pine tree, Wu Chun softly reminded him, “That tree looks painful to bump into.”
Xu Shi Yao chuckled lightly, “I’ve long gotten used to it.”
That’s not necessarily true!
Wu Chun was still worried, so he simply hooked his arm around Xu Shi Yao’s, just in case he suddenly felt a whim.
Many people were gathered around the pine tree taking photos. Behind the tree was an ancient temple, bustling with people, and the incense offerings were flourishing.
Wu Chun and Xu Shi Yao found a spot to sit down, and from there, they could see the path they had taken up the mountain, extending downwards without end.
“The teacher has always treated me well,” Xu Shi Yao suddenly said, “but I still didn’t expect him to do this for me. If it weren’t for the opportunity to come out, I might never have known about these things.”
Wu Chun leaned his shoulder against Xu Shi Yao, “You haven’t let him down, have you?”
Karma, eventually there’s a beginning and an end.
“Wu Chun,” Xu Shi Yao pulled him closer into his embrace, “I’ve said this many times, but now, I still want to tell you.”
“Go ahead.”
“I’m very lucky to have you with me.”
Wu Chun reached out to touch the sunlight filtering through the leaves, “I’ll say just one cheesy thing: I’ve always been very happy with you. Let’s go in and pay our respects.”
This temple worships quite a few deities, and there are many people praying in every area, except…
Wu Chun pulled Xu Shi Yao to a halt in front of the hall dedicated to Yue Lao (the God of Marriage).
Compared to other places, this spot was a bit pitifully empty.
Wu Chun crossed his arms, sighed lightly, and said, “Looks like the younger generation’s desire for love isn’t high. Let’s pray.” He turned to Xu Shi Yao.
Xu Shi Yao nodded, “Okay.”
“Wait a minute.” An idea flashed through Wu Chun’s mind as he stared at the statue of Yue Lao, a small smile appearing on his lips. “Xu Shi Yao, what do you think would happen if I wanted to do something here? Would Yue Lao be upset with us?”
Xu Shi Yao immediately looked at him with a complicated expression, and after a long pause, he whispered, “It’s still bright out.”
Wu Chun was taken aback for a second, then quickly turned red, “Not that kind of thing! I mean!” He exhaled deeply, “We haven’t even held a wedding yet!”
“A wedding?”
“Yeah.” Wu Chun’s face flushed a little, “You have to hold a wedding when you get married. But until now, no one can witness it for us. If we trouble Yue Lao a bit, do you think he would be upset?”
“He won’t. He’ll be very happy. But… you have to wait for me here.”
After a few minutes, Wu Chun saw Xu Shi Yao return with a square red cloth.
“What’s that for?” Wu Chun asked.
“A red veil.”
“You want me to wear this?”
Xu Shi Yao nodded seriously, “It’s required for a wedding.”
“Fine.” Wu Chun took it and placed it over his head. As a good man, there’s no need to compete for the upper hand; he actually enjoyed being served. After putting it on, Wu Chun lifted the edge to peek out, revealing his eyes as he looked at Xu Shi Yao. “So, do we say anything?”
In this life and the next, they seemed to have everything they desired. Compared to other ordinary couples, they were already quite lucky. No matter how they existed in this world, they had only each other by their side.
“Then let’s wish that all relationships find a good ending. Is that okay?”
Xu Shi Yao nodded, “Okay.”
Holding Wu Chun’s hand, he stood in front of the statue of Yue Lao, bowing once, twice, and finally a third time. As the last bow concluded, the sound of bells rang from the mountain, like a proclamation after a grand ceremony.
The sun was setting.
People on the mountain began to descend one after another, discussing what they would do when they got home.
Wu Chun held onto the red veil with one hand and held Xu Shi Yao’s hand with the other as they walked out of the temple. They saw the sky stained red by the sunset, and the evening breeze gently brushed through the mountains.
Facing the last rays of light, they descended the mountain.
Over the years, it felt as if they were trying to make up for the time they had lost, exploring everywhere, playing everywhere, leaving at a moment’s notice, experiencing many things they hadn’t before.
But now, Wu Chun felt he wanted to find a home with Xu Shi Yao.
They made a decision: after going down the mountain this time, they would find a place and settle down, just like the countless ordinary people living in this world, carefully managing their little lives.
Wu Chun remembered a poem he had read years ago:
Starting tomorrow, I will be a happy person.
Feed horses, chop firewood, and travel the world.
Starting tomorrow, I will care for grains and vegetables.
To find a house, facing the sea, with spring flowers blooming
(The End)
The poem mentioned in the context is a well-known piece by the Chinese poet Hai Zi titled “Facing the Sea, with Spring Flowers Blooming” (《面朝大海,春暖花开》). It expresses a desire for a simple and happy life, emphasizing the joy of nature and the importance of caring for everyday needs.
TLN: the novel has finally came to an end!! I loved the story so much. Thanks to the author! 💕💕