Li Zhi felt a little dejected. He'd fallen for Gu'er at first sight. He loved her simplicity, her youthfulness, her maturity, her diligence, and her down-to-earth, hardworking nature. In short, Gu'er was unlike any girl he'd ever met, and she had truly captured his heart. But he was a step too late—she already had someone, and a man from her own village at that.
He was both dejected and impressed by Gu'er. He was disappointed that he couldn't be with her, but it also proved that she was a loyal woman, not one to be easily swayed. For that, he respected her from the bottom of his heart.
Li Zhi watched as Gu'er took off her gloves to touch the rime ice.
"Gu'er, be careful you don't freeze your hands," Li Zhi said with concern.
"It's fine."
Gu'er turned back and smiled at Li Zhi.
The rime ice was crystalline, reflecting the rosy glow of Gu'er's cheeks. Her smile was lovely and bright—utterly captivating.
