Qi Tongwei, in his past life, gradually made a name for himself in the campus.
However, just as he was about to make a splash, an unexpected turn of events disrupted his plans.
Liang Lu's family influence suddenly intervened in his life, seeking to exploit his talent and abilities for their own benefit.
Faced with this pressure and temptation, Qi Tongwei felt utterly lost and confused.
He didn't know how to choose, how to uphold his principles and beliefs without betraying the expectations and trust that Gao Yuliang had placed in him...
As Qi Tongwei contemplated this dilemma, a single sentence from Gao Yuliang opened his eyes: "Remember, life is like a marathon. It doesn't matter where you start, only that the journey is exciting and the finish line glorious."
These words from Gao Yuliang brought clarity to Qi Tongwei, and he firmly set out on his own path...
The sky over Yantaishi was a clear, azure blue, the sun beaming down through the clouds onto the earth.
Qi Tongwei stood at the window of his office, his gaze deep and unreadable, as if lost in thought.
His phone suddenly rang, breaking the quiet.
"I have a surprise for you." Pei Qianqian said.
After hanging up, Qi Tongwei was filled with doubt.
He had no idea what to expect next.
That evening, Qi Tongwei and Pei Qianqian went to the Yantaishi Guest House.
A secretary, impeccably dressed in a suit, was waiting at the entrance.
He greeted them enthusiastically, a smile on his face, "Welcome! Governor Pei has been waiting for you."
When Qi Tongwei heard the title "Governor Pei," he was taken aback.
He never imagined that Pei Qianqian's father was a high-ranking official, a governor. This made him feel even smaller and more powerless.
Led by the secretary, they entered a luxurious private room at the guest house.
The room was tastefully decorated, the atmosphere solemn yet welcoming.
Pei Yihong, Pei Qianqian's father, was seated on the sofa, sipping tea. When he saw them enter, he stood up with a smile, warmly inviting them to sit down before initiating a conversation.
During the conversation, Pei Yihong expressed great interest in Qi Tongwei.
He inquired about Qi Tongwei's work, family, and life, showering him with praise and affirmation.
While slightly overwhelmed, Qi Tongwei responded to Pei Yihong's questions with humility.
However, throughout their conversation, a sense of uneasiness persisted in Qi Tongwei's heart.
He couldn't understand why he was there, what was going to happen next.
He felt as though his fate was being pulled by an invisible force, leaving him powerless to resist.
Suddenly, Pei Yihong abruptly changed the subject, bringing up the political situation in Handong Province.
He mentioned Qi Tongwei's teacher, Gao Yuliang, and his junior classmates, Hou Liangping and Chen Hai, expressing dissatisfaction and criticism towards their political stance and actions.
When Qi Tongwei heard this, his heart clenched.
He realized that Pei Yihong was likely testing his own political views and stance.
Qi Tongwei composed himself, knowing he had to be cautious in this situation, to avoid being caught off guard.
He began to answer Pei Yihong's questions carefully, trying to remain neutral and objective.
However, as their conversation was in full swing, a sudden and rapid knock on the door startled them both.
Qi Tongwei and Pei Qianqian were surprised. They couldn't imagine who would be looking for them at this time.
Pei Yihong gestured for the secretary to open the door.
As the door opened, a middle-aged man entered hurriedly.
He glanced nervously at Qi Tongwei and Pei Qianqian before whispering to Pei Yihong, "Governor Pei, it's bad! We just got word that someone is secretly investigating us..."
Pei Yihong's face instantly turned serious. He waved the secretary away and turned to Qi Tongwei and Pei Qianqian with a sharp gaze.
Qi Tongwei's heart sank, realizing the situation had become critical.
He had to tread carefully from now on, for the consequences could be dire.
However, at this moment, Pei Qianqian suddenly stood up, walking to her father and saying, "Dad, Tongwei is my friend. He wouldn't harm us. I trust him!"
Pei Yihong looked at Pei Qianqian's unwavering gaze and remained silent for a moment before saying,
"Alright, I believe you. But Tongwei, I hope you understand one thing - in this world, there are no eternal friends, no eternal enemies. Only eternal interests. I hope you understand this and make the right choice."
Qi Tongwei felt a chill run down his spine, understanding that Pei Yihong was giving him an ultimatum.
He had to make a choice - either stand with Pei Yihong, fighting together against those who were investigating them, or choose to leave and maintain a neutral stance, not participating in this political struggle.
But deep down, a voice kept echoing in Qi Tongwei's heart - he couldn't give up his beliefs and principles like this!
He couldn't betray his conscience and justice for personal gain!
And so, after a fierce internal struggle, Qi Tongwei finally made his decision - to leave and remain neutral, not participating in this political battle!
When he told Pei Qianqian about his decision, she didn't blame him, nor did she try to persuade him to stay.
She just looked at him silently before saying, "Tongwei, thank you for taking care of me and supporting me all this time. Whatever path you choose, I will support you and bless you."