An Enchanting Celebration

The cavern was filled with laughter and joy as Li Xuehua's birthday and their triumphant ascent in the tower were celebrated. The group had brought a cake adorned with colorful candles, and a mouthwatering steak was sizzling on a makeshift grill. The aroma filled the air, enticing their appetites and fueling their excitement.

Sitting around a makeshift table, the trio of friends regaled each other with tales of their adventures in the tower. Mei Ling animatedly described her encounter with a mischievous sprite, while Shen mimicked the movements of a giant serpent they had faced on one of the levels. Their laughter echoed through the cavern, creating a symphony of mirth.

Meanwhile, Mei Dong observed the joyous scene, stealing glances at Li Xuehua whenever he could. Her carefree demeanor and radiant smile captivated him, but he remained quiet, content to revel in her presence. Unbeknownst to Li Xuehua, his stolen glances were not born out of rivalry but rather the tender stirrings of affection.

As the conversations ebbed and flowed, Li Xuehua felt the weight of Mei Dong's gazes upon her. Assuming it was due to her unexpected triumph in the tower, she playfully shrugged it off, thinking that Mei Dong must be pondering how she had surpassed him. Oblivious to his true feelings, she continued to immerse herself in the festivities.

The moment arrived to cut the birthday cake, and Li Xuehua closed her eyes, silently making a heartfelt wish for happiness and success in her new life. Unbeknownst to her, Mei Dong, too, closed his eyes, making a wish that would remain a secret known only to him. Their wishes, filled with hopes and desires, danced in the air, adding an extra touch of magic to the celebration.

Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as they relished each delicious bite of cake and savored the succulent flavors of the steak. Mei Ling teased her brother as he volunteered to foot the bill, playfully suggesting that his gesture was an act of deep sibling affection. Mei Dong simply shrugged, a bashful smile playing on his lips, grateful for the chance to contribute to their shared celebration.

As the evening wore on, the cavern was bathed in the warm glow of friendship and camaraderie. The flickering torches illuminated their faces, revealing the bonds that had grown stronger through their shared trials. The enchantment of the cavern seemed to wrap around them, creating an unforgettable moment frozen in time.

As they bid farewell to the cavern and made their way back to the school, their hearts were light with contentment. At night while lying in his bed, Mei Dong, remembering Li Xuehua, felt a stirring within his young heart that he couldn't quite explain. And because of these conflicting feelings, he was not able to sleep the whole night.