The Heiress and the Illegitimate School Bully: Chapter 27

As Xiao Yi’s career gradually found its footing, his opportunities to meet with Song Qian became more frequent. Yet, each time they met, Xiao Yi strictly adhered to the advice of Song Qian’s father, contenting himself with strolling side-by-side with her, sharing lighthearted conversations about life and their aspirations.

"You’ve been so busy with the company lately," Song Qian said softly. "You’ve lost so much weight."

Xiao Yi gently took her hand. "Everything is worth it for the sake of our future. Your father has been a tremendous help to me, and I cannot let him down—nor can I let you down."

Her eyes filled with a mixture of love and heartache. "I know how hard you work, and I will always be by your side to support you."

However, as Xiao Yi’s company expanded rapidly, it drew the envy and hostility of several competitors.

Xiao Yi sought out Song Qian’s father, his expression weary. "Uncle, a few companies have joined forces to push me out of the market. They are viciously undercutting prices and poaching my clients."

The older man pondered for a moment before replying, "The marketplace is like a battlefield; such situations are inevitable. We cannot retreat. We must focus on product innovation and service quality. I can help connect you with research institutions to gain access to more advanced technical support. You must adjust your company’s strategy as soon as possible."

Xiao Yi nodded. "Understood, Uncle. I won't be defeated so easily. I am determined to safeguard our future."

Through tireless effort, Xiao Yi’s company successfully weathered the crisis and emerged stronger than ever. Once again, Xiao Yi stood before Song Qian’s father.

"Uncle," Xiao Yi began, "the company is now on a stable path, and I have the capacity to provide your daughter with a happy life. I would like to formally request your blessing for our marriage."

Looking at Xiao Yi, a gratified smile spread across the older man’s face. "You have proven yourself through your actions. I give my consent. Treat her well; you have a long life ahead of you."

"Uncle, my heart is filled with gratitude. Your approval is a precious gift to me. I have always understood the weight of my responsibilities, and my intentions have never been anything but serious. Once I enter university, I will treat her with the utmost sincerity. I have set clear goals for my studies, and I intend to absorb every bit of knowledge in the classroom while actively seeking practical experience to broaden my horizons, striving constantly to become a better man. In our daily lives, I will be attentive to her emotions and feelings, standing by her side through every moment of joy or sorrow. Uncle, I will prove through my deeds that your trust will not be misplaced. I will walk hand-in-hand with her toward a beautiful future."

Upon entering university, Xiao Yi and Song Qian joined the campus volunteer society together. During a community outreach event for the elderly, they were assigned to the same team. As they cleaned rooms and kept the seniors company, their mutual understanding deepened with every task they shared.

However, university life was not without its hurdles. Xiao Yi faced academic challenges, finding himself overwhelmed by the complex formulas of higher mathematics. Song Qian, relying on her own academic prowess, took the initiative to organize his notes and explain difficult concepts, often spending long nights with him in the library.

When Song Qian performed in a university arts competition and stumbled due to nerves, Xiao Yi cheered her on from the audience. Later, he took her to the lakeside to clear her head, telling her, "Don’t be discouraged. In my heart, you are always the best, and we will surely succeed next time."

As time passed, they faced various temptations. Others showed interest in them, yet both remained steadfast in their commitment to one another. Through mutual understanding and support, they sailed smoothly through their first year of university, their relationship growing as sturdy and resilient as the oaks on campus.