Chapter 80: A National Icon, China’s Number One

Outside the hotel entrance, Tang Lei looked at Caroline with a smile and said:

"You're here?"

"Yes, I'm here."

"Ready to go?"

"Let's go."

The two exchanged a few words before heading down a bustling street nearby. To avoid drawing attention, Tang Lei had donned a mask and hat. Since winning the All-Star MVP, his popularity in the States was already reaching new heights.

"Congratulations on advancing your career again, Tang Lei. Back home, you're practically a national icon now," Caroline said with a bright smile. Standing at 5'9" and wearing heels that boosted her height to nearly 6 feet, she looked perfectly matched alongside the 6'8" Tang Lei. With her graceful demeanor and eloquent speech, she held her own confidently beside him, with none of the hesitation or idol worship often seen among fans.

This demeanor made Tang Lei feel at ease. Although Caroline admired him, their relationship remained equal. She wasn't just a "fangirl" following him around and calling him "brother" at every turn. Tang Lei preferred mutual attraction, a relationship where they each saw light in the other's eyes. And luckily, Caroline had her own dignity and charm.

"A national icon? Isn't that a bit much?" Tang Lei laughed. Although he followed some news from home, his tight schedule and distance meant he didn't fully grasp his popularity back in China. He knew the media was hyping him as "China's Jordan," but beyond that, he was unsure.

"Not at all! You're the undisputed number one in China's sports world, both in popularity and commercial value," Caroline said, her tone excited, her enthusiasm overflowing.

Seeing her so animated, Tang Lei couldn't help but chuckle. The two strolled down the lively street, sharing snacks, sipping bubble tea, and laughing together.

Later, they joined the Warriors on a team flight back to San Francisco. Given Tang Lei's rising status, bringing a female friend on the flight wasn't a problem. Onboard, Curry, Thompson, and Durant noticed Caroline's presence, each giving Tang Lei a knowing thumbs-up. Thompson even leaned over and whispered with a grin, "Nice going, man! Just take it easy tonight; the team needs you!"

Tang Lei only smiled in response.

They had lunch on the plane, enjoying the premium meal offered on a charter flight. Once back in San Francisco, Tang Lei and Caroline set out to explore the city. Time flew by as they wandered together, each moment more enjoyable than the last. And while crossing a street, Tang Lei naturally took Caroline's hand, her soft fingers slipping into his grip.

She tensed briefly, a hint of nervousness showing as she tried to pull away. But Tang Lei held her hand firmly, not letting go. After a moment, she gave in, accepting his hand. In that silent moment, as their hands remained entwined, both of them felt their hearts racing. Caroline's cheeks and ears flushed pink—this was, after all, her first time holding hands with a man.

As they finally parted, the sun was setting, casting a warm glow across the sky. Caroline took a red string bracelet from her bag, a piece with rich cultural meaning in China, symbolizing protection, good fortune, and even romance. She gently tied it around Tang Lei's left wrist, her eyes warm and thoughtful.

The red string had deep roots in Chinese tradition. It could serve as a talisman for protection, a wish for safety, or even a symbol of destined love. Seeing the red bracelet, Tang Lei felt a wave of emotion. Though they hadn't officially declared their feelings, holding hands had sealed a natural and free-of-grand gestures connection between them.

In return, Tang Lei took his All-Star MVP trophy from his bag and handed it to Caroline. It was an important gift, a gesture of mutual exchange and deepening connection. Caroline gasped in surprise, initially protesting, but Tang Lei insisted, his determination winning her over. Finally, with a shy smile and misty eyes, she accepted the trophy, boarding her flight back to Harvard with this unforgettable memento.

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