The lights-out whistle sounded, and immediately the whole building erupted with wails, "How did lights-out time arrive so quickly?"
"Exactly, not even a hint of flexibility."
"Why can't lights-out be just a little later?"
Many people hurriedly opened their dormitory doors and took advantage of the hallway lights to grab their hot water bottles and wash their faces; as for washing feet, it was going to have to be quick and simple.
Gong Ruini had already completed her washing-up five minutes before lights-out and now sat on her bed, watching them all panic.
Alas, spending five more minutes studying won't make much difference. If you don't chat so much during the day, can't you save that extra time?
Once everyone in the dormitory was settled in bed, Gong Ruini said, "After exams, let's have a get-together."
Out of the whole dorm, Gong Ruini was the only one from Beijing; the others had already looked up the exam timetable and purchased their tickets home.
