Rose and Lui

Introduction

Lui and Rose had been inseparable since their first day at Shanghai Secondary School. With the bustling city wrapping around them, they found solace in each other’s laughter, dreams, and adventures. From their secret hideout behind the old willow tree in Huaihai Park, where they concocted elaborate stories about their futures, to weekend afternoons spent exploring the vibrant streets of the city's markets, life was an endless tapestry of shared experiences.

Rose would often joke that she didn’t need a diary, for every laugh, every tear, and every whispered secret was woven into Lui’s memory like shimmering silk threads. Lui, with his easy smile and quick wit, was the peacekeeper, always ready to soothe Rose's worries with tales of their upcoming escapades. They were a perfect duo—her fierce determination complemented his laid-back charm, and together they were a force to be reckoned with.

As the years went by, they promised each other something important, something that made their bond even deeper: they would always protect one another from heartbreak and disappointment. Little did they know, the world outside their little bubble was preparing to challenge that vow.

Chapter One: A Beginning in Shanghai

The school bell rang, echoing through the hallways like a herald of freedom. Students poured out of classrooms, their voices merging into a vibrant chorus. Lui leaned against a nearby wall, grinning as he spotted Rose.

“Race you to the front gate!” he shouted, taking off before she could respond.

“Hey, no fair!” she called, but the spark in her eyes said she relished every moment of competition. She sprinted after him, laughter bubbling from her lips.

They reached the gate in record time, panting and giggling. As they caught their breath, Rose nudged Lui playfully. “I’m going to beat you next time! Just you wait!”

“Next time, huh? But remember, you’re going to have to train hard!” Lui winked, puffing out his chest in mock pride.

“Train hard? You mean I just need to keep up with your slacking!” Rose teased, playfully shoving him.

“Oh please, I’m the fastest runner in this school!” he declared, folding his arms dramatically.

Rose rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help but laugh. “Okay, Mr. Speedy, suppose we take a break and head to the tea shop? I heard they have a new flavor that’s supposed to be delicious.”

“Only if it’s the one with that beautiful jasmine scent! You know how much I love that,” Lui replied, an eager smile spreading across his face.

They walked side by side, weaving through the throngs of students and the delightful chaos of the city’s streets. The air was thick with mingled scents of street food and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, which reminded him of the cherry blossoms that draped the park in a soft pink blanket every spring.

“You know,” Rose began, her voice serious for a moment, “I really do treasure our friendship, Lui. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Me neither, Rose. You’re like the sister I never had,” Lui said, feeling the warmth of her sentiment. “Promise we’ll never let anything come between us?”

“Promise.” The word hung in the air, heavy with the weight of their childhood vows.

As they reached the tea shop, the bustling ambiance faded slightly, but the warmth of their bond lingered, cloaking them in an unbreakable shield against all that lay ahead. Together, they stepped inside, blissfully unaware of how the tides of change would soon test the very fabric of their friendship.

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