Ever since the first match, I hadn't attended any of the other school sports events. Although I enjoyed interacting with teachers and students, I decided to take some time for myself during this free period. Ever since I arrived in China, I'd been teaching non-stop, with little to no time to spare.
During these free days, I would sunbathe on the balcony, listen to jazz music to soothe my mood, and watch the stars at night.
Today, I decided to call Rwaki. We talked about life, and she mentioned that she was pursuing her MBA, focusing on her future with determination.
"Are you really doing well in China?" Rwaki asked, her voice carrying a hint of concern.
"I am. I’ve made friends, and the kids are cute and lovely," I said, smiling as I walked out to the balcony, feeling the gentle breeze against my face.
"That's good to hear. I should find some time to visit. From how you describe it, the place seems calm," she remarked.
"Take your time. Finish school and don’t let anything stress you out," I encouraged her.
"Alright. By the way, you’ve mentioned a lot of people you've met. Anyone who’s caught your eye?" she teased.
Immediately, an image of a certain calm gentleman flashed through my mind. I shook my head, trying to dismiss the thought. Mr. Tang had an effortless charm that could capture anyone's attention just by standing there. But he was married, and that was that. He’d left an impression because of his bearing, nothing more.
"No one," I replied firmly. "I'm not in the right state of mind to explore that area yet."
At 26, I had never dated, kissed, or even held hands with anyone. Some would call me a clueless virgin, but I preferred to see myself as single by choice. I wanted to understand what I was getting into before committing to a relationship.
In high school, there was a boy who liked me. He was the classic “Chad” that all the girls fawned over. But by observing his actions, I knew we wouldn’t last. Then in university, seeing how hookup culture and casual relationships were praised, I lost interest altogether. I’d long come to accept that I might stay single for life.
"Really? Don’t limit yourself. No one is perfect. Give relationships a chance," Rwaki urged. "Or is it a matter of type? Go to meetups with fellow foreigners and find happiness."
"I don’t have a type. I’ll know when I meet the one. For now, no one has caught my eye," I stated.
"I see... I kind of understand where you’re coming from. Honestly, if I hadn’t met your brother, I’d probably still be single," she admitted with a sigh.
My chest tightened at my late brother’s name. “Jason would’ve wanted you to be happy,” I said softly.
"I know he would," her voice grew faint.
"Miss Kasi!" A voice suddenly interrupted our conversation. I recognized it instantly as Ci Xing’s. She often came by after the games, even when she looked exhausted. We’d have some cold tea and light conversations before she retired to her quarters.
"Is someone calling you?" Rwaki asked.
"Yes, it's my friend, Ci Xing," I replied.
"Oh! The one you told me about? Go on then, I have to rush to my lecture," she said.
"Alright, have a nice day. I’m going to hang up now."
"You too! Take care," she responded before the call ended.
I walked towards the door and opened the it to find Ci Xing leaning against the frame, her ponytail frayed and cheeks flushed from the afternoon heat.
"I’ve told you not to call me Miss Kasi, Xing. Just Kasi is fine. Or are we not friends?" I teased with a grin.
"Of course, we’re friends! It just slips out sometimes," she explained, looking slightly embarrassed.
"No big deal. Today was the last day of the sports event, right?" I asked.
"Yes! Finally! This week felt endless," she sighed as she sank into the couch, looking utterly spent. "Back in high school, I loved this week. I could just laze around with no repercussions. But now that I’m in charge of organizing it, I miss being a student."
I chuckled at her grumbling as I went to get the tea cups. Meeting Ci Xing had been a blessing. She brought a vibrant energy to my otherwise calm days.
"You deserve a break. It’s Friday, so no classes until Monday," I pointed out.
"You’re right. I envy you sometimes. Teaching cute kids sounds so much easier," she joked.
"It’s not as easy as you think. Besides, you’re a great teacher. I could see it on your students' faces during the sports event. They admire you," I said as I set down the tea pot and the tea leaves she’d brought over earlier.
Once everything was ready, Ci made us two cups of tea. We sipped in comfortable silence, letting the warmth seep into our tired bodies.
"Oh, by the way, we’re supposed to see off the investors today. All teachers are required to attend a small evening gathering," Ci informed me suddenly.
"Oh? Is there a dress code?" I asked, mildly surprised.
"Not really. It’s not a formal party, just a show of respect to the people who made Mingde International School possible," she explained. I nodded my head in understanding.
"What’s the venue?” I asked.
“The Lakeside Pavilion, a popular spot in Huangshan. They serve huangjiu. Sweet, but deadly.” She grinned. “Don’t worry—I’ll smuggle you out before the karaoke starts." She said.
"By the way, do you drink?" Ci asked.
"A little. Why?" I inquired.
"Good to know. In Chinese culture, it’s rude not to drink when toasted, so stick close to me. I’ll help you out," she offered with a wink.
"Thanks. But are you good at drinking?" I asked, curious about her mysterious smile.
"Just... so-so," she replied playfully, taking another sip of her tea.
We both laughed, letting the comfortable ambiance wrap around us. Moments like this made me appreciate the calmness of my life in China—the gentle rhythm of friendship, the small, meaningful conversations.
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