Chapter 92

Ever since An Ran released those photos and witnessed netizens turning against Shen Xingsui, he felt an inner satisfaction. For him, as long as Shen Xingsui was suffering, he was at peace.

If only...

If it weren't for Shen Xingsui, how could he have ended up in this predicament?

He was once the industry's golden boy, destined to be a superstar, adored by all.

But Shen Xingsui had to enter the same talent show, steal his limelight, compete for everything he wanted, even the man he loved!

Now, even his family is disappointed in him, and he's being ostracized in the entertainment circle.

"Once I have the evidence," An Ran texted Zhang Chi, "everyone will know about you and Sui's relationship. Since your reputations are intertwined, just be nicer and comfort him. Everything will fall into place."

By then, Shen Xingsui and Fu Jinxiao will undoubtedly part ways.

In the end, won't he be the one reaping the benefits? Finally, Zhang Chi would have done something right for him.

Zhang Chi quickly replied, "Won't there be any repercussions? I fear Shen's family might retaliate against me."

An Ran read Zhang Chi's reply and laughed coldly. He typed back, "What happened between you and Shen Xingsui was a drunken mistake. How can it be your fault? Shen Xingsui is an adult man, not some innocent maiden. Does the Shen family lack such basic understanding? Besides, if you can win Shen Xingsui over in the end, what can they do to you?"

Zhang Chi seemed persuaded and replied, "Alright then."

Upon seeing his response, An Ran scoffed, not taking him seriously.

Zhang Chi then shared his plans: If An Ran wanted to film, they should go to the hot spring resort in the south of the city. It wasn't his choice but Shen Xingsui's since the location was discreet.

An Ran hadn't been to that resort but didn't dwell on it.

After all, the location didn't matter. His sole aim was to bring down Shen Xingsui. The rest could wait.

After fixing the time and place with Zhang Chi, An Ran descended the stairs to see his elder brother, second brother, and father discussing matters in the living room. It was a usual sight since the family's fortunes turned.

He could almost guess the topic of discussion.

As expected, Jian Kuo began, "You all know our family's current situation. Xiao Zhi, your business isn't doing well either. If necessary, join your brother and me at the company."

Jian Zhi, sitting on the sofa, replied, "Dad, with you and elder brother managing the company, I'm not needed. Plus, I'm unfamiliar with the business. As for my failing ventures, my boss will support me. I have connections."

An Ran added, "Yes, big brother has good relations with the boss's wife."

Jian Zhi nodded, "Dad, you needn't worry about me."

Relieved, Jian Kuo said to An Ran, "An Ran, the Shen family has been suppressing our business. I genuinely hope you can help ease our burden."

Playing the obedient son, An Ran quickly replied, "Dad, I promise I'll earn more and support our family."

Still, his earnings were a drop in the bucket.

Jian Kuo hesitated before adding, "An Ran, some time ago, Mr. Wang from Tai Chun Group expressed admiration for you. We've an upcoming deal with them, crucial for our family. I know you're our obedient son..."

An Ran's face fell.

He never imagined his father would consider using him as bait for a business deal.

He had met Mr. Wang — an aging man of average looks. Despite his wealth, he was just an old man. Would An Ran be retracing the tragic steps of his past?

Hesitating, An Ran said, "Dad, I've been very busy lately."

Jian Kuo's expression darkened.

Rushing to appease, An Ran continued, "But rest assured, our days will get better soon!"

Before Jian Kuo could express his displeasure, An Ran offered reassurance. Once Shen Xingsui faced troubles, the Shen family would be preoccupied. With Fu Jinxiao not supporting Shen Xingsui, An Ran and his second brother could thrive.

Skeptical, Jian Zhi glanced at him, "What plan do you have?"

A bit offended, An Ran held back his strategy. He intended to create an 'accident' after all, and if his brother learned of it prematurely, it might backfire later.

An Ran gave a slight huff and said, “Brother, don't pry too much. Just wait for the surprise I've got for you!”

Jian Zhi wasn't convinced, but he let it go.

Sometimes his younger brother had a knack for getting himself into trouble. Right now, Jian Zhi didn't care as long as An Ran didn't bring that trouble onto him.

...

the next day

The online frenzy regarding Shen Xing Sui's love affair slowly subsided.

Wang Mei Can immediately issued a clarification, claiming their relationship was purely professional and that they were working on music together. She clarified that her relationship with Zhang Chi was solely as colleagues. Some netizens believed her, while others remained skeptical.

Around this time, An Ran's agent started making efforts to improve An Ran's public image, pushing narratives like:

#In a world where celebs date after gaining fame, An Ran is a breath of fresh air#

#An Ran is truly hardworking, he hasn't taken a break in six months#

Some netizens, having seemingly forgotten past controversies, began voicing support:

“After all, the Jian family has nurtured Shen Xing Sui.”

“To sever ties with a brother he's been close to for years, that's quite ungrateful.”

“An Ran is genuinely good.”

“His character is commendable. Hasn't he apologized and made amends for past mistakes?”

“Everyone makes mistakes. Support An Ran!”

With the influx of these comments, many netizens changed their stance, effectively "whitewashing" An Ran's image and boosting his popularity.

Meanwhile, An Ran's exploratory live-stream began.

Accompanied by two cameramen and a host, he cheerfully announced, “Today, we'll visit a renowned hot spring resort. This spot's hot spring and leisure features are quite famous. It wasn't easy finding this gem, but I'm thrilled to share it with you all…”

The crew was surprised by the choice, as they usually visited more mainstream entertainment venues.

Nevertheless, the reporters were eager to follow.

An Ran was enthusiastic in his introduction: “Let's head inside and explore.”

Viewers of the live-stream were excited:

“An Ran looks so handsome.”

“Shen Xing Sui can't even compare.”

“Exploring with An Ran!”

As the broadcast continued, An Ran passionately introduced the resort, all the while discreetly checking his phone, waiting for a message from Zhang Chi. He was hoping to catch a glimpse of him with Shen Xing Sui in a private room, preparing for the perfect exposé.

Zhang Chi soon replied, “I'm in Zone A. But it's a secluded area because Xing Sui is cautious. How will you get here?”

An Ran stated, “Don't worry about it. I have a plan.”

Leading the camera crew, An Ran continued to venture deeper, all the while saying with a smile, “Let’s explore one of these private rooms. They have exceptional private hot springs in here.”

A ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign hung on the door ahead.

An Ran, feigning ignorance, remarked, “We had reserved a section for our visit. Let’s go in and take a look!”

The cameraman, sensing they might be intruding on the wrong area, wanted to caution An Ran but got no chance as An Ran confidently stepped in, eagerly anticipating the sight of Shen Xing Sui and Zhang Chi in a compromising situation, intending for the live audience to witness their secret affair.

Advancing, the camera indeed captured two individuals in an intimate embrace, who, upon seeing the abrupt intrusion, jumped apart, staring in disbelief.

An Ran, ready with a planned quip, began: “Oh, what do we have here? Why are you two…?”

His words were caught in his throat, nearly choking him.

The embracing pair wasn’t Zhang Chi and Shen Xing Sui but Jian Zhi and the boss's lover! Specifically, the romantic partner of their company’s head!

Panicking, Jian Zhi grabbed a nearby towel and tried to stand, pushing his companion away and glaring at An Ran, “What are you doing here?”

An Ran, equally stunned, stuttered, “Brother? Why are you here?”

Wishing he could vanish, Jian Zhi angrily demanded, “What is this? Why have you brought cameras here? What are you trying to do?!”

Overwhelmed by Jian Zhi's intense demeanor, An Ran hastily replied, “It’s an accident, brother. Let me explain…”

“Accident?” Jian Zhi, his usually cool facade crumbling, retorted, “This place is secluded, and our door was locked. And you say it's an accident? Do you think I'm a fool, An Ran?”

An Ran was at a loss for words.

How could he explain that he wasn’t after Jian Zhi but Shen Xing Sui and Zhang Chi?

Why wasn’t it Shen Xing Sui?

An Ran felt overwhelmed, his mind a chaotic mess.

The host hastily addressed the audience, “Apologies, viewers. We seem to have an unexpected situation…”

In disbelief, Jian Zhi realized, “This isn’t a recording. It's live?”

Grasping the gravity of the situation, An Ran was paralyzed by panic. The thought that the recent events might have been broadcasted live and that even their boss could’ve seen it left him reeling.

The chat in the live stream was flooded with puzzled comments:

“?”

“?”

“What's going on?”

"Why is Jianzhi kissing a man?"

"A gay, right beside me!"

"That's not the point. When pictures of Suisui were taken before, Jianzhi was sarcastically commenting. And now, he himself turns out to be gay?"

An Ran stuttered, "It's a live broadcast, but bro, I never expected to find you here..."

Jianzhi, not having the time to argue, quickly explained to the camera, "I'm soon joining a film set. This is a close friend of mine. We were just practicing our lines and scenes for the upcoming project. I know it's not the best setting, but he's passionate about getting into the character..."

The young man Jianzhi was seeing looked stunned.

Watching Jianzhi hastily distance himself, he felt a sharp sense of irony.

They had been discreetly together for nearly seven or eight years. Initially, they were just a regular couple. But as Jianzhi sought better opportunities and discovered the boss's affection for him, the young man felt tainted after an encounter with the boss, which Jianzhi orchestrated. Still, he continued to leverage the relationship with the boss for Jianzhi's benefit.

But now?

At the first sign of trouble, Jianzhi seemed eager to discard him.

Jianzhi continued, "So, I urge everyone not to misinterpret our relationship. We're perfectly clear about..."

"Splash!"

A glass of wine was flung directly onto Jianzhi's face.

Holding the now empty glass, the young man's eyes filled with cold disdain. Facing the camera, he simply stated, "He invited me."

Jianzhi choked.

He never expected that the one who had always been smitten with him would bite back now.

Instinctively, Jianzhi blurted, "Have you lost your mind?"

With a swift motion, the young man dropped the glass. It shattered on the stone floor, pieces scattering everywhere. They were all barefooted, and Jianzhi stepped back in fear. The young man, seemingly impervious to the shards, coldly smirked at Jianzhi, "Scumbag."

After that, the young man turned and left.

An Ran stood frozen, as did the host and the cameraman. The live audience was in shock:

"What just happened?"

"Expose him live, guys!"

"Has this food exploration show always been this intense?"

"Damn..."

An Ran turned to Jianzhi, who stood still in shock, whispering, "Bro, are you okay?"

Jianzhi stood there, dazed, staring at the shattered glass. The fragmented glass seemed to mirror the broken pieces of their relationship, a culmination of their years together. To the very end, the young man wasn't even afraid of the boss finding out and boldly stated everything, making such a firm decision.

Over the years, many have been enamored with Jianzhi, but this boy has shown the most sincere affection.

Someone to use, or to string along.

Jianzhi thought he'd be indifferent, but unexpectedly, with things escalating to this point today, he still felt deeply unsettled.

"Today must've been an unforeseen event..." Seeing Jianzhi's expression, Anran realized he had stirred up trouble and quickly said, "Bro, I wasn't here intentionally for you. I was looking for Zhang Chi. Don’t believe me? Look at our chat history. I'll call him!"

Anran tried to pull up the chat history, only to find himself blocked!

He angrily called Zhang Chi, and from the other end came Zhang Chi’s puzzled voice: "Anran, what's going on?"

Anran snapped, "Zhang Chi, have you gone mad? Why did you give me a fake address? How is my brother here? Where are you? Explain yourself!"

"We are indeed at the hot springs," Zhang Chi replied, "Which section are you in?"

Without hesitation, Anran said, "Section A."

Zhang Chi responded, "We heard quite a commotion from your end just now. Wait a moment; we'll come over."

Upon hearing that they were coming, Anran felt somewhat relieved.

It would prove his innocence. He wasn’t here to trouble Jianzhi.

But when Zhang Chi and Shen Xingsui appeared at the doorway, Anran was even entertaining the idea of inviting them into the water: "You both came to the hot springs together? What a coincidence, sharing such an intimate moment..."

He was cut off as more figures appeared behind them.

Fu Jinxiao leaned against the door frame, standing next to Shen Xingsui, smirking at Anran’s nonstop chatter. His laughter faded, making him look like a jesting fool.

Then, Shen Xingchen appeared.

Shen Xingchen greeted, "Ah, Anran, long time no see. We just planned to have a spa day."

Anran, realizing he couldn't slander them now, was on the verge of collapsing. The livestream camera made him feel like a joke. He saw Jianzhi’s malicious gaze and felt his sanity slipping, "Zhang Chi, did you set me up?!"

Zhang Chi peeked out from behind Fu Jinxiao, “How did I deceive you?"

"You know damn well how!"

"And you?" Zhang Chi couldn't hold back, "Weren't you the first to plot against me? You instigated me to target Xingsui, even suggesting drugging him. Had I not realized your intentions, I would’ve been trapped by you. Do you know you almost got me killed?!"

Anran paled, unable to believe Zhang Chi dared to speak out, especially during a live broadcast.

Are they all insane?

Anran stumbled backward, "What are you talking about? I never instructed you. Don’t push your dirty schemes onto me."

Zhang Chi sneered, "The calls and records you provided to Teacher Fu? I saved them. Still denying it? Shall I play them now for you to hear?"

An Ran looked in shock and disbelief towards Fu Jinxiao, who was not far away.

The man he had always admired, always adored, was now staring at him with icy eyes. No, to be more precise, as if he was looking at some pest.

An Ran murmured, "Teacher Fu…"

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, his expression cold. He spoke deliberately, "An Ran, beneath the tower in Peach Blossom Town, I did give you a chance."

An Ran remembered the warning Fu Jinxiao had given him back then. Had he realized it all at that moment?

"It was you who didn’t cherish the opportunity," A faint smile played on Fu Jinxiao's face, yet it seemed to contain a hint of malice, "I can hardly be blamed for that."

An Ran's steps faltered.

The host, lost in confusion, leaned in and asked, "Ran Ran, what's going on? What are you talking about? Drugging someone? Did you have Zhang Chi sabotage Sui Sui?"

The question hit An Ran like a stab in the gut.

Of course, he knew it was a live broadcast, one that he had orchestrated. He had hoped to use this broadcast to bring down Shen Xingsui, but now it seemed the person who would fall the hardest was himself. No, this can't happen.

At this crucial moment, An Ran's inherent selfishness emerged, "It wasn’t me! It was my second brother! He ordered it!"

Jian Zhi looked up at An Ran in disbelief.

An Ran hurriedly continued, "It was all his idea that day because he had stolen Sui Sui's manuscript and got exposed. He's always hated Sui Sui, so he came up with this plan, using me all along…Slap!"

A sharp slap landed on An Ran's face.

An Ran looked, stunned, towards his second brother and saw Jian Zhi's face filled with rage. Those eyes which used to hold affection and love for him were now filled with resentment, "What nonsense are you spouting?"

An Ran was taken aback.

"If not for your jealousy of Shen Xingsui, your envy that he was more favored by Fu Jinxiao than you, how could I have used you?" Jian Zhi, no longer caring about appearances, continued, "Your pettiness, your blatant and secret jealousy, did you think I didn’t know? And to think I once believed you were smarter and more sensible than Shen Xingsui. Now it's clear, he's a thousand times, a hundred times better than you!"

The live chat room exploded:

"What?"

"Did I hear that right?"

"An Ran has feelings for Teacher Fu?"

"Wait, there's so much information here..."

"Does Fu Jinxiao like Sui Sui? Are they a couple? Class representative, fill us in!"

The greatest pain in An Ran's life was being compared unfavorably to Shen Xingsui. Jian Zhi had precisely targeted and mercilessly attacked his sore spot, leaving him utterly humiliated.

An Ran retorted sharply, "What kind of saint do you think you are? You praise him now, but wasn't it your family who drove him out? Once you knew Shen Xingsui wasn’t blood-related, you started treating him with disdain, neglecting him, forcing him out. You knew about my envy, so you knew Shen Xingsui was innocent. Yet you still played along with my game. Did that stop you from driving him away? Not at all!"

An Ran's sharp voice was like a needle, piercing deeply into everyone's heart.

Jianzhi's inherent selfishness, always lurking beneath the surface, was now laid bare. He slowly turned, somewhat guiltily, to look at Shen Xingsui, his eyes filled with regret and unease. He suddenly feared how Shen Xingsui would feel knowing all this, as it might deeply hurt him.

As expected, Shen Xingsui was gazing back at him.

The man by the shore had a deep, inscrutable look. His glistening eyes settled on Jianzhi, seemingly calm but with unspoken emotions roiling beneath the surface.

Jianzhi spoke softly, "Xingsui... there's been a misunderstanding..."

Shen Xingsui finally averted his gaze, no longer meeting Jianzhi's eyes.

The little boy who used to follow him, constantly calling him "big brother," seemed to have disappeared completely. In Shen Xingsui's eyes, all that remained for Jianzhi was a profound estrangement and disdain.

A searing pain tore through Jianzhi's heart. He stepped over the shattered glass on the ground, approaching Shen Xingsui, "Xingsui, listen to your brother. There's a lot of misunderstanding here. The scheme wasn't my idea..."

Seeing Jianzhi approach, An Ran realized this might be his last chance to set things right. Otherwise, he'd be doomed. He quickly followed suit, "Xingsui, what we said earlier was also misunderstood. I admit my mistakes. I promise not to compete with you over Fu Jinxiao anymore. I truly support you...”

"I've always been on your side. Those albums you collected, I secretly saved some of them for you," An Ran hurriedly added. "Please forgive me. I genuinely regret it. It wasn't my idea to use Zhang Chi; it was all Jianzhi's idea..."

An Ran and Jianzhi were now desperately trying to distance themselves from one another, their once-close bond as brothers shattered.

At this moment, Fu Jinxiao interjected with a leisurely tone, "Sorry to interrupt."

All eyes instantly turned to him.

"Just to clarify, he wasn't obsessing over me," Fu Jinxiao calmly stated, looking straight into the camera, a slight smirk on his lips, "I was the one pursuing him."