Hatred and Choice

The canteen was crowded and noisy during dinner.

When Xue Lingyun carried his tray to the table in the corner, Huo Yuhao and the other two were already there.

Wang Dong was using her chopsticks to battle the braised pork on her plate. Huo Yuhao ate with his head lowered, while Xiao Xiao sipped her soup in small mouthfuls.

Xue Lingyun sat down beside Huo Yuhao, set down his tray, and said nothing.

Wang Dong swallowed a mouthful of meat and looked up at him. "You won quickly again today, didn't you? I heard your match ended faster than some zones' referees could even announce the start."

Xue Lingyun gave a quiet acknowledgment and picked up a bite of vegetables.

Wang Dong clicked her tongue twice and lowered her head to continue eating.

The four ate quietly for a while, occasionally chatting about the day's matches.

Wang Dong kept talking about their opponent in tomorrow's round of sixteen, hoping they would not run into a troublesome team too early.

Xiao Xiao softly agreed. Huo Yuhao merely listened and barely joined in.

Xue Lingyun was nearly done eating and put down his chopsticks.

He looked at Huo Yuhao. His tone was calm, but serious. "Yuhao, when we get back to the dorm later, I have something to tell you."

Huo Yuhao froze for a moment, then looked up and nodded. "All right."

Wang Dong curiously turned her head, about to ask something, but Xiao Xiao lightly nudged her arm.

Wang Dong swallowed her question, pouted, and continued eating.

After dinner, the four stood and headed outside.

When they reached the crossroads, Xiao Xiao waved to them and headed toward the girls' dormitory.

Xue Lingyun, Huo Yuhao, and Wang Dong headed toward the boys' dormitory together.

Wang Dong was still going on