The morning sun spilled through the windows of the academy's grand hall as Su Nian stepped onto the campus grounds. The whispers started instantly—some admiring, some skeptical. She knew this day would be different from the others, but she didn't expect the intensity of the gaze focused on her.
From across the courtyard, two girls exchanged smirks. One of them, a tall blonde named Yanmei, was infamous for her ruthless competitiveness in the fashion department. The other, Meilin, was Yanmei's loyal friend, always quick to side with her.
"Look who's back," Yanmei sneered, eyes glittering with challenge. "The CEO's little pet. Think she can really keep up with the best here?"
Su Nian's chest tightened, but she squared her shoulders. "I'm not here to impress anyone but myself."
The bell rang, signaling the start of class. Su Nian's best friend, Xiao Lian, approached with a supportive smile. "Don't let them get to you, Nian. You've earned this spot. They'll see it soon enough."
Su Nian nodded, grateful for her friend's encouragement.
In class, the challenges came fast and furious. The instructors pushed the students harder than ever, and Yanmei wasted no time trying to undermine Su Nian, questioning her designs and mocking her humble background in front of the class.
But Su Nian's talent shone through. Her sketches were bold, innovative, and elegant—each piece telling a story of resilience and hope. Even the professors couldn't deny her potential.
Later that day, as Su Nian packed up her things, a familiar voice called out.
"NianNian!"
She turned to see Lu Cheng, casually dressed but looking effortlessly handsome as always. His arrival surprised her—it wasn't often he came to her school.
"I thought I'd drop by," he said with a teasing grin. "See how my future designer is doing."
Su Nian blushed but smiled. "It's been… challenging."
Lu Cheng wrapped an arm around her waist. "I'm proud of you. Remember, no matter what anyone says, you're amazing."
That evening, Lu Cheng whisked Su Nian away to an intimate rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline. The ambiance was soft, candles flickering as they dined on exquisite dishes.
Between bites, Lu Cheng reached for her hand. "I know it's hard facing those rivals, but I'll always be here. You're not alone."
Su Nian's heart fluttered. "Thank you for believing in me."
He leaned in, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I believe in us."
Their eyes met, and the tension melted into a tender kiss—soft, warm, and full of promises for the future.