Her intelligence, courage, determination, decisiveness, and resourcefulness... so many qualities and flaws deeply fascinate him.
In her, he sees his former self.
They are very different, yet in many ways, so similar.
He stayed abroad for many years, then returned to achieve great things, isn't that exactly what Shi Nuan is doing now?
However, in his heart, he believes Shi Nuan doesn't need to be as tired as he was. Shi Yuanbo feels guilty towards Shi Nuan, and she can completely take advantage of that.
Moreover, Shi Nuan has him. With him around, who would dare to bully Shi Nuan? Clearly, they haven't experienced life!
The hardships he endured, he will absolutely not let Shi Nuan experience them!
In eight years, he finally became the person he hoped to be, strong enough to protect her and everyone he wished to protect.
And now, eight years later, Shi Nuan is his, and only his. How wonderful!
...
Shi Nuan's thesis defense went very smoothly, astonishing her dorm mates.
