Li Jing looked at his son's eager eyes and was reminded of his own youthful self. Back then, he too was filled with passion and dreams, firmly believing that he could change the world. Perhaps he shouldn't deprive his son of the right to pursue his dreams, even if that path might be fraught with hardships and uncertainties.
"Nezha," Li Jing's voice softened a bit, "are you really sure about this? The path of a Football Coach is not easy; the competition is fierce, the income unstable, and the future may not be bright."
"I know," Nezha nodded firmly. "But I'm willing to work hard and overcome difficulties. If you're worried that I won't have a backup plan, I can prepare one. For example, I can study for my Football Coach certification while also learning some management or marketing skills. That way, even if my football career doesn't pan out, I'll have other options."
Li Jing watched his son’s mature and rational analysis, a complex emotion swelling within him. When did his impulsive son become so understanding?
"Is it that classmate Ao Bing who has influenced you?" Li Jing suddenly asked. "You seem to have changed a lot since you met him."
Nezha was taken aback; he hadn't expected his father to mention Ao Bing so suddenly. Indeed, Ao Bing's departure had caused him great pain, but it also helped him gain clarity about his own heart.
"Yes, Ao Bing has had a significant impact on me," Nezha admitted candidly. "He made me realize that life is short and should not be wasted on things we don't like. Everyone has the right to pursue their dreams, even if the road is tough."
Li Jing nodded thoughtfully. "That boy left a deep impression on me when I first met him. Quiet and polite, yet there was a maturity and wisdom in his eyes beyond his years." He paused, his voice softening. "How is he doing now? Still in school?"
Nezha lowered his head, unconsciously touching the Crystal Pendant around his neck. "He... left. His family business needs him; he had to go back."
Li Jing noticed the flicker of unusual emotion in his son's eyes when he mentioned Ao Bing, but he refrained from probing further and simply nodded gently. "Everyone has their own path to walk and responsibilities to bear. It seems he has made his choice."
"Yes," Nezha said softly. "He chose responsibility, while I... I want to choose my dreams."
Li Jing fell silent for a moment before finally letting out a long sigh. "Alright, Nezha. I respect your choice. But I have one condition: you must seriously plan your future and not be half-hearted about it. If after two years there is no significant progress in your path as a Football Coach, you will need to reconsider my advice. Is that acceptable?"
Nezha's eyes lit up in surprise; he never expected his father to agree! He nodded excitedly, "Of course! I will work hard and not let you down!"
"Also," Li Jing added seriously, "your studies cannot fall behind. Even if you don't plan to pursue a career related to your major in the future, a college diploma is essential. There is no room for negotiation on this."
"I promise!" Nezha replied earnestly, "I will take my studies more seriously and maintain good grades."
Li Jing's expression finally softened as he reached out to pat his son's shoulder. "Go ahead and pursue your dreams. No matter the outcome, at least you tried and won't have any regrets."
In that moment, Nezha felt an unprecedented warmth swell in his heart. He suddenly stepped forward and gave his father a tight hug—this was the first time they had been so close in many years.
"Thank you, Dad," Nezha said, his voice filled with deep gratitude. "Thank you for understanding me and supporting me."
Li Jing was momentarily taken aback but then reached out to gently pat his son's back. "Silly child, your mother and I will always be your strongest support."
Comment 0 Comment Count