A reborn mother longs for her daughter's happiness.

Chapter 122 The Promise of Studying Abroad and the Aspirations of Youth

The atmosphere in Zhang Chen's living room was serious yet filled with anticipation. The family of three sat around the sofa, the coffee table in front of them piled high with various study abroad materials, like a small mountain, each document representing Zhang Chen's future.

Zhang Chen straightened his back, his eyes sparkling with excitement and determination, and broke the silence first: "Mom and Dad, I want to study in the UK, and I've already decided that I want to study business management and filmmaking techniques. As you know, I'm particularly interested in these two fields. If I can master them, maybe I can find a super cool combination between business and art in the future!"

Mr. Zhang adjusted his glasses and carefully flipped through the brochure about British universities in his hand, nodding as he read: "Hmm, son, that's a good idea. Business management will give you solid business knowledge, and photography skills will allow you to unleash your creativity and artistic talent. However, the courses for these two majors in the UK are not easy, so you'd better be prepared to work hard."

Zhang's mother looked at her son with concern and chimed in, "That's right, that's right. You've always been interested in new things since you were little. You'd better learn a lot this time you go abroad. Also, the lifestyle in England is quite different from ours, so you'll have to learn to take care of yourself."

Zhang Chen patted his chest and assured them, "Mom and Dad, don't worry! I'm all grown up now, I can definitely take care of myself. Besides, when I go to England, I'll definitely study hard and live up to your expectations. Maybe I can even become a great commercial photographer and take lots of amazing photos for you!"

Zhang's mother was amused by her son's words: "You silly child, you're always so cheeky. By the way, in a few days you and your dad will have to go to school to fill out your college applications. Even though you plan to study abroad, you can't be careless with your domestic applications. In case anything changes, we need to have a backup plan."

Zhang Chen nodded: "Okay, Mom. I'll fill it out carefully, but I'm still more looking forward to starting my new life in England."

The family discussed the details of studying abroad for a while, from accommodation arrangements to living expenses, leaving no stone unturned. Although Zhang Chen was a little impatient, he knew that his parents were doing it for his own good, so he patiently answered each question.

After finally finishing their discussion, Zhang Chen returned to his room, pounced on his bed, and immediately sent a WeChat message to Li Shiqing.

Zhang Chen: "Shi Qing, what are you doing? I just finished discussing studying abroad with my parents."

Li Shiqing: "My mom is showing me the exhibits at the company right now. Let me tell you, these things are so interesting!"

Zhang Chen: "Really? Tell me quickly, what new and interesting things are there?"

Li Shiqing: "There are so many! For example, there's a smart electronic product that can connect to various devices and even turn on your car's air conditioning in advance, just like a little butler. There's also a special piece of clothing made with a new type of fabric that's waterproof, stain-resistant, and breathable—it's amazing."

Zhang Chen: "Wow, that sounds so cool! If I study business management and photography techniques, maybe I can promote these products to the whole world and let more people know about them."

Li Shiqing: "Haha, then you'd better do your best! By the way, how do you plan to arrange your studies and life in England?"

Zhang Chen: "I think I should focus on mastering my school courses first, and I definitely need to have a solid grasp of business management knowledge. In my spare time, I'll join some photography clubs or workshops to improve my photography skills. Maybe I can even capture some beautiful scenery and interesting people in the UK and document my study abroad experience."

Li Shiqing: "Not bad, not bad. I need to study hard too. Maybe I can help my mom manage the company in the future."

Zhang Chen: "Then we'll have to work together! When I get back from England, maybe we can collaborate and make a super awesome promotional video for your mom's company's products."

Li Shiqing: "Okay, it's a deal! Take good care of yourself in England and don't worry your aunt and uncle."

Zhang Chen: "Don't worry, I will. You should study hard in China, and remember to share any interesting things with me."

The two chatted back and forth, talking about everything from future plans to interesting things at school, and then from their dreams to their favorite movies and music. Although they were separated by a screen, they could almost feel each other's enthusiasm and energy.

Zhang Chen: "Shi Qing, do you think I'll encounter a lot of difficulties when I get to England? For example, language barriers or not being able to make friends?"

Li Shiqing: "How could that be? You're so cheerful, you'll definitely adapt quickly. Besides, haven't you always wanted to challenge yourself? This is a great opportunity!"

Zhang Chen: "Yeah, you're right. I need to be brave and take this step. By the way, after looking at so many exhibits, is there anything you particularly like?"

Li Shiqing: "There's a piece of machinery that's quite interesting. Although it looks complicated, it can improve production efficiency and product quality. I think business management is also closely related to these actual production processes."

Zhang Chen: "Haha, you're almost a mini-expert now. When I get back, you'll have to tell me all about the business knowledge you've learned."

Li Shiqing: "Okay, then you have to share your study and life experiences in the UK with me."

Before they knew it, night had fallen, and the sky outside the window was illuminated by twinkling lights. Zhang Chen and Li Shiqing were still chatting, their hearts filled with hope and anticipation for the future. This parting, though somewhat reluctant, had strengthened their resolve to pursue their dreams, and they looked forward to reuniting someday as better versions of themselves, chasing their own starry sky together.

Zhang Chen put down his phone, his fingers still unconsciously tracing patterns on the screen, his eyes fixed on his chat history with Li Shiqing. The words seemed to be enchanted, each one vividly dancing before his eyes, transforming into Li Shiqing's radiant smile.

"Oh dear, what's wrong with me?" Zhang Chen scratched his head, but couldn't help but smile. "This girl, when she was talking to me about the exhibits from those companies, she was so excited, like she'd discovered a new continent." He thought to himself, his mind filled with the image of Li Shiqing's bright eyes, brimming with curiosity and a spirit of exploration.

"Honestly, I think I'm actually starting to have feelings for her. She's smart and ambitious, unlike some girls who only know how to shop and dress up." Zhang Chen curled his lip, seemingly looking down on those superficial girls he imagined. "Chatting with her is always so easy and enjoyable. We can talk about anything, and she always gives me some unexpected ideas."

He leaned back in his chair, hands clasped behind his head, a silly grin spreading across his face. "Am I falling for her? This is a bit of a problem. I'm about to go to England to study. But maybe it's a good thing. When I return from England, more accomplished, maybe I'll be able to stand more confidently beside her." Zhang Chen's thoughts grew increasingly rosy, as if he could already see himself and Li Shiqing working together to build a future, and he couldn't help but laugh out loud. "Li Shiqing, oh Li Shiqing, you've really slipped into my heart without me even realizing it. Wait for me to come back!"

That night, the two young people drifted off to sleep with bright hopes for the future; their story had only just begun...