Lin Hao dragged his heavy steps out of the subway station, clutching a worn-out briefcase in his hand, his heart filled with loss and helplessness. The news of being laid off from his company felt like a sharp blade cutting through his already fragile pride. This city, once the stage for his dreams, now felt unfamiliar, every street seeming to remind him of his failures.
The sky was overcast, and light rain fell steadily. Lin Hao hadn't brought an umbrella, letting the cold droplets soak his hair and clothes, piercing his skin like needles, as if trying to wash away the last traces of hope. He walked aimlessly, the boss's indifferent farewell echoing in his mind: "Company restructuring. Today is your last day." At that moment, he felt like an orphan abandoned by the world, unable to find a place to belong. All his efforts seemed to have been for nothing.
At a corner convenience store, Lin Hao bought a cheap bottle of water. When he took out the last of his change, he realized his wallet was nearly empty, tightening his chest with pressure. Life's burdens felt like an invisible boulder pressing down on him, making it hard to breathe. On the way home, he saw a young couple holding hands, their laughter clear and happy, stabbing at his eyes. He lowered his head, biting his lip to hide the bitterness inside.
Opening the familiar yet cold door of his rented apartment, the empty room greeted him with only the ticking of a clock on the wall, as if time itself was mocking his helplessness. On the table lay unopened bills and overdue notices, forming an invisible mountain on his chest. Lin Hao sat on the worn sofa, staring out at the rain-washed city, his heart full of despair and confusion. He once had dreams, passion, and hope for the future, but now everything felt torn apart by a storm and scattered everywhere.
Just then, his phone lit up. A message from an unknown number appeared: "Hao, are you okay? I have something to talk to you about." Lin Hao froze. The name was that of his first love, Su Wan'er, whom he hadn't contacted in years. Seeing her name, his heart skipped a beat, as if touched by a long-lost feeling.
Years ago, they met and grew close on campus, the best memories of their youth. They were carefree then, laughter filling sunny afternoons. Unfortunately, after graduation, they went their separate ways, and life's hardships drove them apart. Lin Hao never expected Su Wan'er to appear when he was at his lowest.
In her message, Su Wan'er mentioned she was facing some troubles in life and needed Lin Hao's help with some mundane matters. Though the exchange was simple, Lin Hao felt a long-missed warmth and care, as if that buried affection was gently awakened.