Chapter 75 Confession

After hearing his grandmother's question, Fu Jinxiao responded with a light chuckle, a tad incredulous for the famed actor, "How could I?"

The grandmother queried, "Did you genuinely not mistreat them?"

Fu Jinxiao looked at her somewhat helplessly, raising an eyebrow without confirming or denying, "Why would I bully the young without reason?"

"..."

The grandmother fell into thoughtful silence.

It wasn't that she doubted her grandson's intentions, but sometimes, Fu Jinxiao's boundaries were unconventional.

Perceptive as ever, Fu Jinxiao queried, "Did you happen to run into him just now?"

Surprised by his insight, the grandmother replied softly, "Yes, I met him on my way out. He was carrying some food. I had given him a seal earlier, and he returned it, feeling it wasn't appropriate for him to keep."

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow.

Shen Xingsui was sometimes overly considerate.

Still, suddenly returning the seal did seem quite odd.

Pondering briefly, Fu Jinxiao turned to his grandmother, "You gave him the seal?"

The grandmother softly remarked, "It's not that valuable of an item anyway."

Fu Jinxiao wanted to laugh. That seal essentially represented the Fu family's authorization, granting access to any of their bank accounts in times of emergency. Only those from the core family had such a privilege. By giving it to Shen Xingsui, the implication was clear: he was being considered as part of the family. "Weren't you a bit hasty in this?" he asked.

"Perhaps you're the only one who's not in a rush?" The grandmother said leisurely, walking ahead. As she walked, she added, "Let me remind you: never underestimate someone's growth because of their age. By the time you realize it, it might be too late."

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow slightly.

Turning to him with a meaningful glance, the grandmother advised, "Don't be complacent; you might regret it in the future."

Standing still, Fu Jinxiao's deep eyes grew contemplative.

...

downstairs

In the back garden, Shen Xingsui sat beside Shen Xingchen, observing a distant fireworks party.

Shen Xingchen, with his youthful looks, was quite popular. In a short time, several girls approached him. Handsome and from a prominent family, he was highly sought-after.

Shen Xingchen seemed to be having the time of his life.

Being familiar with such settings, he wasn't flustered.

Shen Xingsui watched him with slight concern, fearing he might go too far. Yet soon after, Shen Xingchen returned and commented, "Why are you drinking so much?"

Shen Xingsui paused, then whispered, "This wine tastes quite good."

Shen Xingchen took a drink and warned, "The alcohol content isn't high, but you shouldn't overindulge. It's easy to get drunk if you're not used to it."

Shen Xingsui nodded gently. "Understood."

While saying so, he downed another half glass.

The night was beautiful. A luminous moon hung in the sky, the garden's floral aroma wafting through the air now and then. There were sounds of merriment everywhere.

Shen Xingchen said, "Stop drinking. If you get drunk, mom will blame me."

Shen Xingsui chuckled softly, "Alright."

He was aware of his low alcohol tolerance. Already, the world seemed a tad blurry to him.

As the two conversed, there was some commotion nearby. A group approached, including Xu Enzhen, Lina, Chairman Fu, and beside Shen Minglang was Fu Jinxiao. Their arrival drew many eyes.

Chairman Fu greeted Shen Xingsui with a smile, "Young Xingsui has grown up so well, quite the distinguished young man."

Shen Xingsui stood up, shaking hands and bowing, "Mr. Fu, nice to see you."

Xu Enzhen responded with a smile, "Jinxiao is truly talented and outstanding. Compared to him, our young Xingsui has much to learn. Thank you for always taking care of him."

Chairman Fu glanced at Fu Jinxiao, who was gazing intently at someone across from him.

With a hint of implication, Chairman Fu said, "I do wish he'd put as much effort into our family business as Shen Minglang does. That would give me some peace of mind."

The atmosphere turned subtly tense.

Typically, such sensitive matters aren't suitable for public discussions. However, the deep ties between the Fu and Shen families are akin to age-old kinship; they know each other inside out.

Furthermore, Mr. Fu was quite exasperated with Fu Jinxiu tonight. Even though he wishes to reconcile with his son, Fu Jinxiu's aloof demeanor doesn't make it easy. Having a mediator from the Shen family in this setting might just make a difference.

With a sheepish grin, Lina inquired, "Didn't Minglang start working in the family business quite early?"

Mr. Fu looked at Shen Minglang and remarked, "Such a prodigy at a young age."

The praise left Xu Enzhen struggling for a smile.

After all, everyone knew of the strained relationship between Fu Jinxiu and his father. Still, no one had expected Mr. Fu to be this desperate to have his son take over the family business.

Shen Yong stepped in to lighten the mood, "We've always supported our children's decisions. When Minglang joined the business, it was his own choice."

Pretending to misunderstand, Mr. Fu continued, "That speaks volumes about Minglang's sensibility. I'm envious. I'd always hoped that Jinxiu, being sharp since childhood, would join the company to ease my burden. Little did I expect him to venture into showbiz..."

Before anyone could react to Mr. Fu's statement, an unexpected voice chimed in.

The usually reticent Shen Xingsui remarked, "But he's been quite successful in the entertainment industry."

In the past, he would've never spoken up.

But tonight, perhaps emboldened by the alcohol, or some other underlying emotions, Shen Xingsui passionately defended, "Why shouldn't he pursue his dream in showbiz? Is joining the family business the only right path? Is that the only way to be considered sensible or prodigious?"

Mr. Fu was taken aback.

He hadn't anticipated such an assertive response from Shen Xingsui.

Leaning into his buzz, Shen Xingsui continued, "He's your son, not just an employee. Why can't you sit down and talk? Ask him about his aspirations for the company, or if he has plans to combine his entertainment career with the business. There are so many ways to handle this. Why..."

But as he spoke, the alcohol's effects started to take a toll, making him feel nauseous.

Xu Enzhen's face changed with concern as she hurriedly supported her son, "Xingsui, are you alright? Are you feeling unwell?"

Shen Xingsui softly responded, "I think... I might've had a bit too much to drink."

Anxiously, Xu Enzhen lamented, "You know your limits. Why did you drink so much? Is your stomach upset?"

Amidst the concern, a figure approached them.

Fu Jinxiu steadied Shen Xingsui, offering his arm for support. Turning to Xu Enzhen, he said, "Aunt Xu, don't worry. There's a soup in the kitchen to help sober up. It's a bit stuffy here with so many people. I'll take him somewhere to rest."

Xu Enzhen felt more relieved, "Thank you, Jinxiu. Please take care of him."

With a courteous mannerism, Fu Jinxiu assured her, smiling, "Of course."

And with that, he led Shen Xingsui away.

Mr. Fu and Lina remained, their worried eyes following the departing figures.

Once the younger generation had left, the adults exchanged glances. Shen Minglang was the first to speak, “Uncle, what I wanted to tell you is that when I joined the company, it was a decision made between my father and me. He didn’t ask for my assistance; I chose to do so because I enjoy the world of business and making money. It’s merely a passion of mine.”

Shen Yong added, “Jin Xiu indeed has remarkable talents. Even though he didn't continue in the company, his accomplishments in the entertainment industry are commendable. He owns several thriving companies. Perhaps you don’t need to pressure him so much.”

Mr. Fu sighed deeply.

Being accustomed to his influential position, he’s often self-centered. With his infrequent interactions with Jin Xiu and the latter's evident resistance, he struggled to communicate. Although Shen Xingsui's words were blunt, they unexpectedly resonated with Mr. Fu. Maybe it’s time for him to reassess his approach.

...

Meanwhile,

After having some sobering soup downstairs, Shen Xingsui was taken by Fu Jin Xiu to the rooftop terrace for fresh air to clear his head.

The breeze did wonders for his intoxication. The patio lights emitted a warm yellow glow, and noticing the chill in the wind, Fu Jin Xiu shielded him by standing against it.

Realizing his earlier actions, Shen Xingsui hesitated, “Did I cause trouble earlier?”

Fu Jin Xiu looked down at him, "Hmm?"

Close to the handsome face of the man, Shen Xingsui could distinctly sense his alluring scent. As clarity returned, he lamented, “I think I confronted Mr. Fu.”

With a playful smile, Fu Jin Xiu teased, “Realizing your audacity now might be a bit late.”

A flustered Shen Xingsui stuttered, “But Mr. Fu, being so influential, surely wouldn’t take offense to someone like me, right?”

“You never know.”

Fu Jin Xiu, gazing into Shen Xingsui’s eyes, remarked, “You boldly confronted him in front of so many people.”

Shen Xingsui furrowed his brows in distress.

Fu Jin Xiu probed, “Where did this sudden courage come from? You’re typically so reserved.”

Shen Xingsui mumbled, “I just didn’t like him constantly talking about you, so…”

His words faded away, almost lost in the wind.

Fu Jin Xiu, his playful demeanor fading, asked earnestly, “So you were trying to defend me?”

Shen Xingsui felt exposed.

He stole a glance at Fu Jin Xiu and whispered, “Perhaps I shouldn't have done that. Given your excellence, you don’t need someone like me speaking up for you. It might have just made Mr. Fu uncomfortable.”

Leaning against the railings, Fu Jin Xiu looked up at the luminous moon.

Since getting to know Shen Xingsui, he had encountered many unique experiences. For instance, for the first time, someone, despite their fears and timid nature, had mustered the courage to confront another person on his behalf.

Ever since his childhood, despite his prodigious intellect and lack of maternal care—even with the presence of a stepmother—he felt a sense of isolation. Even when he wasn't at fault, he often faced reprimands.

“You're already so accomplished; let others have their moment.”

“That's the child of our business partner. You should maintain a good relationship with him. Don't fuss over such trivial matters.”

"Always be polite and well-mannered, so no one would think you were raised without proper upbringing."

"Your father has had his share of hardships too; you should be understanding and considerate towards him."

"He seemed to have always been alone."

"When you fall, pick yourself up and check for injuries. If you're hurt, seek medical attention; if not, bear the pain and move on. If there's a storm, cover yourself with a blanket; if it rains, remember to bring an umbrella. When you're hungry, learn to cook following a recipe; when tired, find a place to rest."

"He had many powerful allies around him, so he never felt his struggles or the need to rely on anyone. Perhaps he once had these feelings, but they disappeared over time."

"Until one day, he met someone."

"At first glance, she seemed small and insignificant, yet she took on numerous online trolls single-handedly. Despite her own challenges and standing in the shadows, she always tried to share a beam of sunlight with him."

"So why did he pay such special attention to Shen Xingsui?"

"Perhaps everything changed that day outside the rice cake shop."

Fu Jinxiao snapped back to reality, gazing down at Shen Xingsui, and curiously inquired, "Why did you return the seal to grandma?"

Caught off guard by the question, Shen Xingsui looked up, meeting Fu Jinxiao's gaze. He thought he would be nervous, but with the alcohol bolstering his courage, he calmly responded, "I felt I wasn’t its rightful owner."

Fu Jinxiao replied with a profound expression, "How can you be so sure?"

"Isn’t it obvious?" Shen Xingsui said with a smile, leaning on the railing, slightly tipsy, "The seal must be precious, otherwise why doesn't any of my siblings have it? Why should such a valuable item belong to me?"

Fu Jinxiao observed him and responded, "If it was given to you, you deserve it."

Shen Xingsui shook his head, feeling the cool breeze, "I’ve possessed many things before, only to lose them eventually. If something's bound to be lost, it's better never to have it in the first place."

Fu Jinxiao, resting his chin on his hand by the railing, spoke softly, "If it were up to me... I'd do everything to obtain what I desire. Even if there's a risk of losing it, I'd have no regrets. Any sacrifice would be worth it."

Hearing these words, Shen Xingsui’s face lit up with a radiant smile. Under the light, the young man's eyes seemed to be beautifully painted, and with the alcohol making him bolder, his allure was amplified.

Shen Xingsui moved closer, whispering, "Do you know what I admire most about you?"

Fu Jinxiao arched an eyebrow in intrigue.

"It seems no matter the obstacle, you're fearless," Shen Xingsui began slowly, "Even in the darkest nights, you aren’t scared. While everyone else prays for light, you find and become the light. You shine so brightly that others can find their way and gather strength to move forward."

"Without you, I might have given up long ago."

For the first time, the two of them chatted so openly. It was also the first time Fu Jinxiao saw this side of Shen Xingsui, someone standing beside him without hostility, just a gentle demeanor that he couldn’t look away from.

"About that seal," Shen Xingsui's voice faded, "I don't feel worthy of it."

It seemed to be midnight. Cheers and joyous sounds echoed from nearby. Close at hand, the sharp noise of fireworks erupted, illuminating the night sky with their brilliance before quickly fading.

A buzzing filled Shen Xingsui’s ears. Amid the jubilant shouts and the dazzling explosion of fireworks, with the help of alcohol, his heart felt overwhelmingly full.

"Mr. Fu," he looked up at the person beside him, "You spoke of living without regrets. I believe you're right."

Fu Jinxiao noticed the person next to him, but as a firework shot up into the sky with a bang, the sound drowned out Shen Xingsui's voice, making it almost inaudible.

The firework exploded in the sky, blossoming into a breathtakingly beautiful pink flower.

Its brilliance seemed to illuminate the entire manor. On the balcony, their shadows appeared elongated, leaning closely together. No one noticed them in this serene moment. Though it was the firework display Shen Xingsui had always wanted to see, his gaze remained intently on Fu Jinxiao. As the fireworks faded, he earnestly confessed, "I like you."

Words that had been caught in his throat for years could finally be spoken to their intended recipient today.

He had always been fearful, anxious, and filled with self-doubt, but today, possibly buoyed by the influence of alcohol, he voiced his feelings. And surprisingly, Shen Xingsui felt relieved.

As the fireworks concluded their spectacle, Fu Jinxiao looked down at him.

Despite Shen Xingsui's soft voice, he had heard the confession clearly. Though Fu, the movie star, had always been prepared for such moments, he never expected that hearing these words would make even his well-accustomed heart skip a beat. He stood there, momentarily speechless.

Nevertheless, no matter how shocked or surprised he felt, Fu Jinxiao could not deny that out of all the confessions he had received over the years, this one, from Shen Xingsui, was the only one that didn’t bring about feelings of rejection or displeasure. Instead, there was a hint of... delight.

However, what Fu didn't anticipate was that Shen Xingsui had a twist in store.

The young man in front of him glanced timidly at him and continued, "But..."

A sinking feeling settled in Fu Jinxiao's heart. He hadn’t even had the chance to rejoice; now what's this 'but' about?