Going home for the New Year during the winter break, I encountered a cool school girl on the high-sp

Zhou Yecheng greeted them somewhat shyly: "Hello."

Lu Zihan nodded slightly in acknowledgment, and Zhang Yu and Li Yang responded briefly as well.

Lu Zihan then joked:
"Hey, Chen Ergou, you're quick to make friends! We just met last night and you're already showing up at my door today."

Chen Chen shrugged:

"Fate is a mysterious thing. By the way, Yecheng wants to talk to me about something, which will probably take up some class time. You guys go and save me a seat and put my books on the table too."

Lü Zihan pouted:

"Alright, I give up. But you'd better hurry, the computer teacher is really strict, and you'll be in big trouble if you get caught skipping class."

After saying that, Lu Zihan and the other two walked towards the classroom.

Watching them walk away, Zhou Yecheng asked with some concern:

"Senior, will this interfere with your class? How about we reschedule?"

Chen Chen waved his hand:
"It's alright, I know what I'm doing in this class. Didn't you need something from me? Go ahead and say it."

As she spoke, she led him into the classroom.

I found a seat near the door and sat down.

Upon hearing this, Zhou Yecheng took a deep breath, his previously somewhat apprehensive expression instantly becoming serious and focused, his gaze fixed firmly on Chen Chen:

"Senior, I really want to learn how to write novels from you. I hope you can teach me."

Chen Chen raised an eyebrow slightly, looking at Zhou Yecheng with some surprise, then a smile of interest appeared in his eyes:

"Oh? You want to learn how to write novels from me? That's a bit unexpected. Why did you suddenly have this idea?"

Zhou Yecheng lowered his head slightly, remained silent for a moment, and then slowly said:
"Senior, I've always had a strong interest in novels, and I spend almost all my free time reading all kinds of novels."

I've always had this idea in my mind, and I'd like to try writing it myself.

But when I actually picked up a pen and opened a document to create, I deeply realized the difficulty. I had no idea where to begin, and all my thoughts just wouldn't translate smoothly onto the paper.

He paused and continued:
"Later, I downloaded the 'Fantasy Manga' platform and accidentally discovered that the novel I had been following and really liked was actually written by you. From then on, I longed to get your guidance."

Chen Chen frowned slightly, a hint of doubt in his eyes, and asked:
"Since you love writing novels so much, why didn't you choose literature when you were choosing your major, but instead chose computer science?"

Well, actually, he's the same way.

So I want to know what Zhou Yecheng is thinking.

Will I end up like him?

Zhou Yecheng raised his head, his eyes filled with a complex mix of helplessness and longing, and said:

"Senior, actually my parents have always hoped that I could choose a more practical major with better job prospects. In their opinion, computer science majors are more likely to find good jobs and have stable incomes in the future."

Although I love writing novels, I hesitated when filling out my college application, and ultimately couldn't go against their wishes.

He shook his head with a wry smile, and then said:
"Moreover, at the time I also thought that even if my major wasn't related to literature, I could still write novels in my spare time. But when I actually put it into practice, I found that the difficulties were far greater than I had imagined."

I haven't received any systematic training, and I don't know how to structure a story or create characters. Every step feels incredibly difficult.

Chen Chen nodded slightly to show his understanding and said, "Indeed, novel writing is not a simple matter. Even people who study literature professionally may not be able to write well."

However, interest is the best teacher. Since you have this passion and are willing to work hard, you can still make progress gradually.

Zhou Yecheng's eyes lit up, and he quickly said:

"Senior, could you give me some pointers? Your novels have particularly captivating plots and vivid characters; you must have a lot of unique experiences."

I'm really curious to know how you started creating, and how you've continuously improved your writing skills?

Chen Chen pondered for a moment, then slowly said:

"Actually, when I first started writing, I was just as clueless as you are. But I know that extensive reading is essential to writing a good novel."

Besides reading a wide variety of novels, one should also learn to analyze their structure, writing techniques, character development methods, and so on.

He looked at Zhou Yecheng with gentle eyes and continued:
"In addition, practicing writing more is also very important. Don't be afraid of writing poorly. It may be rough at first, but as long as you keep writing, you will gradually find your own style and rhythm."

Another important point is to observe life closely. Life is the source of creation; many wonderful stories and characters are based on our everyday surroundings.

Zhou Yecheng smiled broadly, nodded vigorously, and spoke respectfully:
"I understand, senior."

At that moment, the teacher who was lecturing on the podium seemed to be suddenly interrupted, and his words came to an abrupt halt.

The teacher tilted his head slightly, his gaze falling directly on Chen Chen and Zhou Yecheng in the back row of the classroom.

Immediately afterwards, the teacher's lips curled up slightly, and she said with a hint of teasing:

“Those two students at the back door are having a great chat. Why don’t you come up and continue the conversation? Let the whole class hear your insights.”

The classroom fell silent instantly, and everyone's eyes followed the teacher's gaze, landing squarely on Chen Chen and Zhou Yecheng.

The air seemed to freeze, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Zhou Yecheng's face flushed red to his ears in an instant, and the smile that had been on his face just moments before vanished without a trace, replaced by an embarrassed expression.

He opened his mouth, wanting to say something in his defense, but then he was speechless and didn't know what to say.

In contrast, Chen Chen appeared quite calm.

He remained calm, straightened his posture slightly, and showed no sign of panic.

The teacher on the podium observed all of this, gently shook his head, and said with a touch of gentleness:

"Students, you must listen attentively in class. If you have anything on your mind, you can share it after class."

After listening to the teacher's words, Zhou Yecheng nodded slightly, no longer daring to look the teacher in the eye. He quickly lowered his head and pretended to be focused on the textbook, but his bright red ears betrayed his nervousness and embarrassment.

He secretly regretted that he couldn't help but talk to senior Chen Chen, and now he had embarrassed himself in front of the whole class.

I hope my senior won't be affected.

Chen Chen smiled politely at the teacher and said, "Teacher, I'm really sorry, we know we were wrong."

His voice was steady and sincere, as if the brief incident hadn't affected him much. (End of Chapter)