Chapter 928: Conflict and Friendship

Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation@@novelbin@@

Amidst the clamor of shouts, the rhythmic beating of drums, and the crackling of firecrackers, the air was thick with excitement.

As the race approached the halfway point, two dragon boats surged ahead, clearly leading the pack and becoming the favored contenders for victory.

However, amidst the fervent cheers, a disagreement erupted between the two boys, Su Li and Gao Ming, who had previously stood united in their support.

Su Li’s voice cut through the cacophony, his enthusiasm unbridled. “It’s obviously the No. 8 boat that has the best chance of winning! There’s no way it can be No. 10!”

Gao Ming, equally fervent and unyielding, shot back, “No way! It’s definitely No. 10 that’s going to win. It’s been the fastest since the start, and the crew’s moves are way better than the others. No. 10 is the champion for sure!”

Their friendly rivalry had escalated into a full-blown argument, leaving Gu Zi and the others to watch in amused exasperation.

Rather than worrying about their friendship, the adults felt a sense of relief. After all, what were friends if they never quarreled? It was only natural for conflicts to arise.

Su Bing, holding his sister Su Le, had distanced himself from the bickering duo, content to avoid the din of their squabble.

As the dragon boats turned toward the starting point, it signaled that the end of the race was near and the moment of truth would soon arrive.

Su Li and Gao Ming momentarily paused their shouting, their focus sharpening on the two front-running boats, No. 8 and No. 10, as the finish line loomed closer.

With every ounce of strength, the competitors in each dragon boat pushed themselves to their limits, the strain evident on their faces. The atmosphere was electric as they held their breath, waiting for the climax of the race.

Like streaks of light, the three leading dragon boats dashed towards the finish line.

In a stunning twist, the inconspicuous No. 11 surged ahead in the final moments, crossing the finish line first and shocking everyone.

The two frontrunners, No. 8 and No. 10, were tied for second place. The crowd was left in disbelief for a moment before erupting into cheers.

But amidst the celebration, Su Li and Gao Ming remained sulky, each stewing in their disappointment. Neither had predicted the outcome, but what loomed larger was the lingering resentment from their earlier argument. They turned their backs to each other, ignoring the other’s presence.

As they walked away, Gao Lang led Gao Ming forward. “Yan Yan’s friend has arranged a place for us to eat lunch. Let’s head there now.”

Su Shen wrapped his arm around Gu Zi, following suit. “Thank you for hosting us. Su Bing, keep an eye on your brother and sister. Let’s move along.”

With that, he and Gu Zi walked ahead, leaving the children behind.

Su Bing, balancing his sister in one arm and guiding his younger brother with the other, wore an expression of icy indifference.

To outsiders, it seemed like the weight of resentment bore heavily on him. After all, with their parents off in their own world of affection, he bore the burden of looking after his siblings alone—a task that could sour anyone’s mood.

Meanwhile, Su Li tugged at his brother’s shirt, glancing forward. He noticed Gao Ming sneaking glances back at him, and suddenly, the anger that had festered inside began to melt away.

Memories of their friendship flooded back to him—how Gao Ming had stood up for him when they first met at school. Gao Ming had been his first real friend in the city. Was it fair to throw away their bond over this trivial argument?

Determined, Su Li thought, ‘Maybe I should apologize to Gao Ming after all?’

Ahead, Gao Ming quietly asked Gao Lang, “Dad, was I too harsh on Su Li just now? Should I apologize?”

Gao Lang hadn’t expected such a question from his son. To him, both boys were strong-willed, and their argument was just a sign of their passionate personalities. “You both have your own perspectives, which is good,” he replied. “But as friends, it wouldn’t hurt to apologize.”

Hearing his father’s words, Gao Ming’s anger dissipated. After all, Su Li was his good friend, and friends didn’t hold grudges.

He certainly didn’t want to miss out on enjoying Gu Zi’s delicious cooking later!

A smile crept across his face as he resolved to make amends. He would share the best morsels with Su Li and offer his apology over lunch.

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