Chapter 106: They Are Each Other’s Homecoming (End of Main Text)

Chapter 106: They Are Each Other's Anchor (Main Story Finale)

Qilin Video immediately panicked and demanded to know which platform had acquired the rights.

Zhao Yunshu smiled and said, "The contract requires confidentiality, so I really can't say."

Qilin Video naturally assumed it was Yunfeng Video, likely prompting another internal meeting to discuss which project they could compete with Yunfeng Video during the winter break.

Though they were competitors in the industry, executives and mid-level managers from both platforms were always fishing for info from each other.

Almost on the same day, Yunfeng Video also learned that *Drunken Immortal Terrace* had been sold—a development that was unbelievably quick.

Due to the backlash against ALEN, audiences were growing resistant to similar talent shows, numbed by the flood of overhyped shows. Yunfeng Video had just decided in a meeting to stop following Qilin Video’s lead in wasting money on these talent programs.

For the upcoming winter break, *Drunken Immortal Terrace* was currently their best bet. But before they could even renegotiate with Zhao Yunshu, it was already sold?

To whom?

The Jiang couple kept their mouths shut, especially Jiang Huaiyuan, who had become much more guarded after Lin Chengdong’s imprisonment and was no longer so easily tricked into revealing information.

Qilin Video suspected Yunfeng Video had bought it and was playing dumb and mysterious.

Yunfeng Video, in turn, thought Qilin Video was playing games—pretending they hadn’t bought it while fishing for confirmation. It was all mind games.

The two sides entered a phase of mutual suspicion, clashing the following month with weak lineups that failed to spark much competition.

The buzz around *Drunken Immortal Terrace*’s motion comic continued to soar, and anyone could see that the drama adaptation would perform well in ratings once aired.

Word eventually got out. Gradually, word spread that the drama version of *Drunken Immortal Terrace* would stream on Little Sweet Fruit. Users of the platform speculated wildly and flooded customer service with inquiries, but the responses remained vague, keeping everyone guessing.

Many fans flocked to Ling Song’s personal page to browse stills and clips, driving up his follower count on *Big Eyed Boy* as well.

Some brands, sensing Ling Song’s rising popularity ahead of his drama’s release, came calling with endorsement deals. Chen Qian selected a few mainstream brands to get his name out there.

When the contracts were brought to Ling Song for signing, he hesitated, unsure whether to pick up the pen.

"What’s wrong?" Chen Qian asked, amused, arms crossed.

"I… the drama hasn’t even aired yet. No one knows if it’ll be a hit or miss. How can there already be endorsement deals?" Ling Song asked, puzzled.

Chen Qian laughed. "By the time it’s clear you’re a star, it’ll be too late to catch up. These brands want to sign you before your value skyrockets—it’s called getting in early. If you don’t like them, that’s fine. But a few were recommended by Xiao Jiang. Want to consider those?"

Ling Song nodded slightly. "Which ones did he suggest?"

Chen Qian teased, "Wow, after all my hard work negotiating, I’m still second to Xiao Jiang’s word!"

Signing the papers, Ling Song replied, "He believed in me first. I trust his judgment and vision."

---

Jiang Ruotang handed in his final painting of the semester, packed his bags, and left the dorm.

His first winter break as a college student had arrived.

Burr, the capital’s winter was freezing. Stepping outside the heated dormitory, Ruo Tang stamped his feet and rubbed his hands before pulling on the gloves Lu Guifan had given him in high school.

Just as he descended the steps, a tall guy in a black coat and casual jeans approached, took his suitcase, and lowered his head—his long lashes framing his eyes, so elegant it made Ruo Tang’s heart melt in the dry winter air.

"Excuse me, do I know you?" Ruo Tang asked mischievously.

Lu Guifan replied softly, "Take off my glasses and you don’t recognize your boyfriend anymore?"

"Wow! My boyfriend is *this* handsome?" Ruo Tang played with Gui Fan’s hair playfully. The guy even wore glasses to bed, insisting he wanted to see Ruo Tang’s expressions clearly. He also especially loved when Ruo Tang nudged his glasses up with his nose—proof of affection.

Today, though, Gui Fan had gone without his black frames, revealing his striking looks so openly that heads turned as they walked.

Pulling the suitcase ahead, even his back looked good. Unable to resist, Ruo Tang jumped onto his back. Gui Fan adjusted his balance effortlessly, hooking his arms under Ruo Tang’s legs as they continued forward.

This was their unspoken understanding—whenever Ruo Tang wanted a piggyback ride, Gui Fan obliged without question.

Nuzzling into Gui Fan’s neck, indifferent to onlookers, Ruo Tang murmured, "My first semester was… pretty laid-back. Just classes and painting."

Gui Fan smiled—a sight that made the moment perfect.

"But also fulfilling," Ruo Tang added, "because I got to love you with everything I had."

---

With everyone doing well enough now, they’d all booked flights home early.

In the departure lounge, Ruo Tang played cards with Cai Ji, Jian Sha, and Zhao Zhangfeng. Lu Guifan, banned for counting cards, wasn’t allowed to speak or even make eye contact with players.

Thus, Cai Ji dominated, crushing them repeatedly—though Zhao Zhangfeng’s losses kept Ruo Tang from losing too badly.

Oddly, Cai Ji didn’t seem thrilled by all his winning, just giving small smiles instead. Even the usually oblivious Zhangfeng noticed something on his mind.

"Cai Cai, if something’s bothering you, tell us. Maybe we can help," Zhangfeng said, clapping his shoulder.

"Even if we can’t solve it, our advice might be useful—especially Ruo Tang’s. He’s experienced," Jian Sha added.

"It’s… nothing major. Some friends and I designed an online multiplayer game. Began as something just for us, but we got obsessed—put tons of work into the engine and data compression. Ran into trouble with state synchronization… working on it."

The group all relaxed in relief.

"You’re such a game addict! Wait—you made a new game and I’m *not* the first to play? Friendship over!" Zhangfeng joked.

Finally allowed to speak, Gui Fan interjected, "If it’s a technical issue, I might have input. An outside perspective might help."

Cai Ji’s face lit up. "Thanks, Captain!"

For a moment, it felt like high school again.

On the plane, Gui Fan reviewed code on Cai Ji’s laptop while the latter, finally relaxed, passed out. Ruo Tang watched Gui Fan, still got butterflies at his focused expression—even after all this time together.

At baggage claim, Gui Fan and Cai Ji were deep in discussion about the synchronization problem, the latter growing visibly excited.

Ruo Tang and the others were reassured.

Xiao Gao picked them up at the airport—now driving an SUV that fit everyone.

Jian Sha teased, "Feels like a school bus."

"Sure, but *you’re* the only kid here," Zhangfeng shot back, reigniting their bickering.

After dropping off Jian Sha and Cai Ji, Xiao Gao asked, "Gui Fan, heading to Spring After Rain?"

Gui Fan smiled faintly. "Are Uncle Jiang and Auntie Zhao home?"

"I'm home. How could I not be when Ruo Tang and Changfeng are coming back today?" Xiao Gao said with a smile.

"Then let's go see them first," Lu Guifan replied.

Before Jiang Ruotang could say anything, Zhao Changfeng asked in confusion, "Why does meeting my parents sound so important?"

Lu Guifan chuckled lightly, "Because your brother confessed to Uncle Jiang that I'm his boyfriend."

Zhao Changfeng's eyes widened in shock, then he stood frozen for half a minute. Just as he was about to pinch Jiang Ruotang's arm, Jiang Ruotang slapped his hand away first: "If you think it's a dream, pinch yourself!"

Zhao Changfeng pinched his own upper lip, "You two have been sneaking around—no, exchanging glances for how long?!"

"If you don't know how to use four-character idioms, don't force it. Your Chinese score in the college entrance exam really was just luck!"

"We got together during the summer after high school graduation," Lu Guifan answered.

Zhao Changfeng leaned back and let out a sigh of relief, "Jiang Ruotang, you have no idea how worried I was that you'd end up with some terrible boyfriend! Now I feel like a huge weight's been lifted. I can focus on my career without worrying about having to beat up some scumbag and ruin my sports career!"

"No need to wait for a scumbag—I can beat you up right now! What kind of nonsense are you always imagining? Your imaginary scenarios are so melodramatic!"

Xiao Gao, who was driving, also laughed, "I knew it."

Lu Guifan asked curiously, "Knew what?"

"Every time I drove Ruo Tang to your place, he looked so happy and excited. What else could it mean besides him liking you? Isn’t there a saying online? If you like someone, even if you cover your mouth, it’ll show in your eyes."

Lu Guifan looked at Jiang Ruotang. Maybe it was true that Jiang Ruotang had liked him first.

Returning to the Jiang family, Lu Guifan felt a shift in his own emotions. When Jiang Huaiyuan hugged Jiang Ruotang, he also scrutinized Lu Guifan with his eyes, as if scanning him with X-rays to examine every inch of him.

Jiang Ruotang had thought Lu Guifan was just coming for dinner, but he hadn’t expected him to bring ginseng slices from a famous old shop in the capital—something Jiang Huaiyuan often brewed on set—as well as a massager for his neck and shoulders. He’d even brought bird’s nest soup for Zhao Yunshu.

Zhao Changfeng muttered under his breath, "What is this? The son-in-law’s homecoming? I’m the actual brother-in-law here—how come I get nothing? At least give me a pair of limited-edition sneakers!"

"You have enough sneakers to outfit an army."

Jiang Huaiyuan tried the massager for his neck and shoulders with Lu Guifan’s help, his face practically glowing with delight.

Dinner was a pleasant occasion.

Jiang Ruotang had once thought Lu Guifan wasn’t the type to charm people, but the truth was, it depended on whether he wanted to.

Lu Guifan talked knowledgeably about films and TV shows—camera movements, pacing—so much so that one might mistake him for a budding director. Without a single word of flattery, he made Jiang Huaiyuan feel the joy of finding someone who truly understands.

After dinner, Jiang Huaiyuan hesitated for a moment before saying to Lu Guifan, "How about we talk privately?"

Otherwise, it felt like there was a formality left unobserved.

Lu Guifan nodded and followed Jiang Huaiyuan to the study.

Zhao Yunshu leaned close to Jiang Ruotang’s ear and whispered, "Have you seen *Pride and Prejudice*?"

"The movie version, yes. Why?"

"Doesn’t this feel like Darcy meeting Mr. Bennet to ask for Elizabeth’s hand in marriage?"

Jiang Ruotang sighed, "Why can’t it be me marrying Lu Guifan?"

"No, what I mean is, both of them are pretending to be calm, but they’re actually so nervous their palms are sweating."

Jiang Ruotang laughed.

In the study, Jiang Huaiyuan didn’t put on any airs of seniority. He simply asked Lu Guifan to sit and said, "Actually, when Ruo Tang first told me he liked boys, I didn’t think he’d done anything wrong. I just worried he wouldn’t find someone truly worthy of love. I was afraid he’d mistake a pretty face or some idealized image in his head for true love and end up chasing illusions. When you first appeared, you didn’t seem like Ruo Tang’s type at all. But every time he talked about you, he described a different definition of perfection. He said you’d won many awards, that you could teach him even the hardest problems, that just looking at you in class kept him from dozing off, that you stood up for him in front of teachers, that you never got emotional but always found solutions, and that without your glasses, you’d outclass every man in the entertainment industry."

Lu Guifan’s fingers twitched slightly.

"Every word was just describing what you did, but to my ears, it all sounded like, ‘Dad, I really like this boy.’"

Lu Guifan’s eyes grew moist, but he didn’t interrupt, listening quietly.

"I know you’re both still young, and the future holds many uncertainties. You’ll meet different people, experience different things—your perspectives, your mindset, what you want from life may change. If one day you no longer love him, I won’t force it. Just don’t hurt him to get away. Bring him back to me safely, that’s all." Jiang Huaiyuan spoke very seriously.

Lu Guifan didn’t make any promises. He only said, "Uncle, in my future plans, Ruo Tang is the most important."

Jiang Huaiyuan smiled and nodded, then took out a watch from a drawer and slid it toward Lu Guifan. "This watch was given to me by my grandfather after I showed him my first film as a director. Ruo Tang doesn’t like mechanical watches—winding them, adjusting the time. If you don’t mind, I’d like to give it to you, because this watch suits you perfectly."

Understated yet elegant, precise in its workings.

"Thank you, Uncle. I’ll take it."

Lu Guifan opened the box—the watch was already set to the correct time—and put it on.

It was getting late, and it wouldn’t do to not return home on the first day of the break. Xiao Gao drove Lu Guifan back.

Jiang Ruotang held Lu Guifan’s wrist, studying the watch for a long time. "I regret it now. I didn’t appreciate it before, but suddenly I realize how distinctive Dad’s watch is. How about you give it back?"

Lu Guifan laughed and nudged Jiang Ruotang’s forehead with his nose. "This is a promise between me and your dad. The watch isn't going back."

"Fine."

But seeing the watch on Lu Guifan’s wrist gave a sense of permanence.

By the time Lu Guifan got home, it was past nine.

His parents greeted him at the door—Xiao Wei was already asleep. He chatted with them for a while, talking about what he’d studied that semester and any interesting things that happened, though most of it revolved around Jiang Ruotang.

Later, after showering, he stood in his room, looking at the painting of the Butterfly Nebula Jiang Ruotang had made, framed in a glass frame that was clearly kept spotless.

Then, a soft knock came at his door. His mother’s voice followed, "Gui Fan, can I come in?"

"Of course. What is it, Mom?"

His mother smiled as she entered and sat across from him. "It’ll be Chinese New Year in half a month, right?"

"Mm."

"Have you decided which day to bring Ruo Tang home?"

The word "home" made Lu Guifan’s heart leap. "Mom… you…"

"Do you really think you hid it well? A mother always knows." She gestured with her eyes to all the traces of Jiang Ruotang in his room—the vibrant roses on the wall, the Butterfly Nebula on the desk, the two cups he often placed side by side, the chestnut-brown bedding, even the sketches Jiang Ruotang had drafted carefully bound together. Lu Guifan’s own drafts were tossed as scrap paper, but anything related to Jiang Ruotang was carefully stored in a box, moved from their old home to the new one.

"I was afraid you wouldn’t approve."

His mother sighed. "If it were some random person, of course your father and I wouldn’t accept it. But it’s Ruo Tang. He makes you happy, keeps you company, helped you make so many friends, makes you better. If we were still stuck in that isolated fishing village, if your father hadn’t followed Mr. Zheng to see the world, if I hadn’t worked with Lawyer Hong and handled so many cases, we might have struggled to accept this. But only you know what makes you happy. Your father and I don’t want you to feel… that we’re holding you back. And we don’t want Ruo Tang to feel awkward around us either."

Lu Guifan’s eyes grew teary. "Thank you, Mom."

Mrs. Lu hugged her son and then walked out of the room.

It was clear that Mr. Lu had been waiting outside for a while, and the two were still whispering.

"How did it go? Did you say it?"

"I did, I did. Quit worrying."

"Good, now it's all out in the open!"

"Then why didn’t you dare come in with me to say it?"

"I was afraid you might be wrong, and then we’d both be embarrassed!"

Lu Guifan raised his voice, "This door's not exactly soundproof."

As soon as he finished speaking, Mrs. Lu quickly pulled Mr. Lu back to their own room.

Lu Guifan closed his eyes, exhaled with a smile, and fingered his wristwatch, thinking how lucky he was to have the best parents and the most understanding person in his life.

Returning to Sheng City for winter break naturally meant class reunions, karaoke, and dinners.

Jiang Ruotang and Lu Guifan also brought Chen Dan along to play a whole day of pool with Qi Yanze, who lost so badly he was about to lose it and said he wanted to sign up for classes.

"Classes for pool skills?" Jiang Ruotang asked.

Qi Yanze rolled his eyes in exasperation, "An MBA program!"

Jiang Ruotang looked at Chen Dan, who nodded and said, "He wants to be a brainy alpha CEO."

Jiang Ruotang: "..."

The New Year spirit was everywhere as the streets of Sheng City were adorned with red decorations. Mu Xianqing even sent a message saying his family was hosting a private banquet on the sixth day of the Lunar New Year, inviting close relatives and business partners. He wanted Jiang Ruotang to come and, if he felt awkward, to bring his boyfriend along.

Jiang Ruotang stared at the message for a long time before frowning and replying: [I think you have ulterior motives—you're after my boyfriend.]

Mu Xianqing spit-taked his coffee again, wondering how Jiang Ruotang had seen through his seemingly natural invitation.

[There’s a battery patent held by Professor Yang and your boyfriend that our new energy vehicle brand really needs. Does that explanation make sense?]

Jiang Ruotang laughed and was about to tease Mu Xianqing when Cai Ji suddenly sent a message: [Ruo Tang, I need your advice on something.]

Remembering how troubled Cai Ji had seemed lately, Jiang Ruotang immediately called him.

"Cai Cai, what's going on?"

It turned out Cai Ji had met a group of gaming enthusiasts, many of whom were computer science students. For Cai Ji, it felt like finding his people. Together, they developed a multiplayer battle game based on *Shan Hai Jing*, originally just for fun and to play with friends.

As the player base grew, their game caught the attention of a major foreign gaming company, which offered to buy it for a substantial sum—enough to net each developer nearly two million yuan.

Though they were all top university students, earning two million after graduation would take years. Without funding, they couldn’t possibly develop the game further. Even if they wanted to start a business, securing bank loans or investments would be impossible for students with no connections. In the end, selling the game now seemed like the best way to earn their first real money.

Jiang Ruotang listened quietly before asking, "So, Cai Cai, what do *you* think?"

"I... I..." Cai Ji hesitated before answering earnestly, "It doesn't sit right with me! I think our game is worth far more than that! Rumor has it that the company buying it is also developing a well-established, popular multiplayer battle game. Once it launches overseas, it’ll inevitably enter the domestic market. They’re buying our game just to eliminate a potential competitor! They’re afraid another company might buy and develop it, cutting into their market share... I know it sounds presumptuous, but I just know it!"

"Maybe it’s not presumptuous—maybe it’s true. What do you *really* want to do?"

"I... I want to keep developing it, even if I’m the only one left. But I don’t know how... How do I get investors? Can you teach me?"

Jiang Ruotang chuckled and calmly reassured him, "You've got us. You have me, Gui Fan, Chang Feng, and Sister Sha. No matter what, we’ll stand by you. Send me the game, and tell your team you have connections who might offer a better deal. Ask them to wait."

"Okay!" Cai Ji couldn’t help adding, "Sister Sha was right—when in doubt, ask you!"

After receiving the game, Jiang Ruotang put in some playtime, listening to Cai Ji explain the characters and skills. His eyes widened as his heartbeat quickened.

The company trying to acquire the game was Doyle Group, famous for *Age of Kings*, a game featuring European myths and legends with unique skills and team battles.

If Jiang Ruotang remembered correctly, in his past life, *Age of Kings* launched overseas by the end of next year and took over the gaming world. It entered the domestic market two years later, pulling in billions in revenue by the time of his death.

But Cai Ji’s game was based on Chinese mythology, with deeply localized character designs and moves, even featuring Easter egg skills that unlocked with progression.

Since Cai Ji’s team had never played *Age of Kings*, this was entirely their own creativity.

With proper funding, a team, and technical support, they could potentially overtake *Age of Kings* and launch first!

Thinking back to Cai Ji’s tragic fate in his past life—persecuted by human garbage like Cai Chuan and Li Chun—Jiang Ruotang felt a white-hot rage. Just prison was getting off easy for them.

"Cai Ji, I want to try developing this game. Tell your team that those who stay will retain their original shares. For those who want out, I’ll pay double Doyle’s offer—but they’ll sign NDAs."

Of course, Jiang Ruotang would have Mr. Zheng and Lawyer Dai vet the game's IP and resolve any legal or technical issues. But first, he needed to keep the team together.

"Got it! I’ll tell them!" Cai Ji’s voice was buzzing with excitement.

Though many were checking out for the holidays, once Jiang Ruotang explained the game to Mr. Zheng and Dai Ming, they knew he was plotting something major. Legal and valuation work kicked off right away.

A week before the New Year, *Drunken Immortal Terrace*’s drama adaptation stunned users with a homepage takeover on Xiaotianguo.

Fans couldn't believe their eyes—the holy grail adaptation was finally here!

The news went viral instantly, topping Big Eyed Boy’s trending list without any paid promotion.

Though Qilin and Yunfeng suspected Xiaotianguo’s involvement, the announcement felt like a done deal.

Even if Director Jiang was calling the shots, there was no guarantee the story would resonate or that viewers would subscribe to Xiaotianguo. Wouldn’t bootlegs flood the internet anyway?

But they forgot their own weak slate of shows. *Drunken Immortal Terrace*’s premiere left viewers—accustomed to junk-food TV—raving about its top-shelf quality.

Director Jiang had simply aimed to make a great show, without dragging it out for dozens of episodes. Every scene packed a punch, leaving audiences enthralled.

[You won’t believe it—I made dumplings but forgot to eat them because *Drunken Immortal Terrace* was so good!]

[Same! My instant noodles turned to mush while I was glued to the screen!]

[I can’t take my eyes off Ye Linzhou’s god-tier looks!]

[Ling Song’s line delivery is flawless—cold on the surface, pure at heart!]

[No A-list actors, but every performance is A-game!]

[Director Jiang is a shot composition wizard! Forget movies—stay in TV forever!]

Word of mouth exploded, with the first three episodes dominating ratings by miles.

Ling Song’s popularity soared. Beyond his looks, his voice, presence, and big-screen worthy chops—endorsed by Director Jiang—cemented his status as a future top-tier talent.

Fan creations and analysis videos took over platforms, leaving Yunfeng and Qilin scrambling. Gao Cheng hadn’t even needed to spend much on marketing. Instead, he organized dozens of offline fan meets with the cast, offering paid subscribers chances to win meet-and-greets and signed merch.

Many viewers initially had no intention of subscribing to another platform just to watch one TV series, especially since they had already spent money on Qilin and Yunfeng.

But Ye Linzhou's character won over audiences so irresistibly that, to admire his stunning visuals in 4K resolution, many viewers still signed up for a Sweet Fruit quarterly subscription. After all, a seasonal subscription was no big loss—who knows, they might even get a chance to meet Ling Song in person during an offline event?

As a result, Sweet Fruit's paid user base experienced its second peak growth during the TV series' broadcast.

Even before the financial reports came in, all Sweet Fruit shareholders knew they had hit the jackpot right at the start of the year.

As for Qin Zhanchao, he watched the series alongside his mother.

"I never expected Director Jiang's film-quality cinematography to have such a powerful impact when applied to a TV series," Qin Zhanchao remarked.

Mrs. Qin added, "It's not just the framing—it's also the storytelling, the control over scenes, the ability to get the whole crew on board with his vision, and the boldness to take a risk by casting Ling Song as the male lead. Every element—director and actor alike—had to align perfectly to achieve this result. Zhanchao, audience attention doesn’t just materialize; it’s the audience’s attention. You’ve been chasing popularity, but Director Jiang creates it."

These recent experiences made Qin Zhanchao realize how much his past arrogance and greed had cost him. He could have collaborated smoothly with Jiang Huaiyuan, but his own narrow-mindedness had ruined the opportunity.

Seeing that her son had come to understand, Mrs. Qin didn’t press further.

Han Ming, however, was far less magnanimous. He watched helplessly as Ling Song, whom he had once sought to control and manipulate, emerged like a butterfly breaking free from its cocoon.

Ling Song’s popularity skyrocketed, resources poured in, and even his demeanor in interviews became more confident and composed. Gone was the defensive, rebellious edge—he now carried himself with a newfound ease.

Unable to accept this, Han Ming launched a dirty tactics campaign, hiring influencers to spread rumors about Ling Song being ungrateful, volatile, and even violent—citing made-up stories like smashing someone’s head or overturning a dinner table.

Chen Qian, well aware of the feud between Han Ming and Ling Song, had long prepared a counterattack.

The moment the blackmail surfaced, Chen Qian struck back without hesitation, releasing audio proof of a certain boss pressuring production teams to blacklist Ling Song, as well as testimonies from retired artists confirming that a dinner meeting had been orchestrated to pressure Ling Song to comply.

Unlike Han Ming’s emotionally charged slander, Chen Qian’s evidence was concrete—with receipts.

Given Ling Song’s looks and acting skills, it made no sense he’d been stuck in minor roles for years. Netizens were outraged, digging into how he had lost past opportunities. Sympathy for Ling Song surged, and public fury turned toward the "certain boss," with "Who is this boss?" trending in the top three searches. People were practically clamoring to exhume the man’s grave and run it over with a crane.

With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, Cefeng Pictures’ PR manager was overwhelmed, wishing he could kneel and beg Han Ming to stop—why stir up trouble right before the holidays? Was he deliberately gifting the enemy free points?

Ling Song never expected Chen Qian to go to such lengths to gather evidence and witnesses for his past grievances.

"This was Xiao Jiang’s idea," Chen Qian explained. "He saw Han Ming as a walking liability for you—karma’s a bitch. Someone as domineering as Han Ming must have left a trail of enemies. This time, we’re making sure he kneels. We held back earlier because we were still collecting evidence, but now we’ve got enough to summon a dragon."

Not just Chen Qian—Qi Yanfeng and even Gao Cheng contacted Cefeng Pictures’ chairman, making it clear that Han Ming’s personal grudge wasn’t just a personal grudge but a direct challenge to Juxing Media and Sweet Fruit. The question was whether this was Cefeng’s official stance or just Han Ming’s personal feud.

Realizing the gravity—antagonizing both industry peers and platform partners was no joke—the chairman of Cefeng Pictures called an emergency shareholders’ meeting on New Year’s Eve. They announced an internal investigation into Han Ming, vowing to submit evidence of any illegal conduct to authorities and strip him of his shareholder status if proven guilty.

At this point, Han Ming had lost everything, facing not only public condemnation but also impending legal scrutiny after the holidays.

Soon, it was New Year’s Eve.

Traditionally, Lu Guifan would have returned to his hometown village with his parents. But given the villagers’ past hostility toward Xiao Wei—who had finally begun to come out of her shell—Lu’s parents didn’t want to risk reopening old wounds.

"Gui Fan, won’t it be too lonely for you and Xiao Wei to stay home alone on such a family-oriented holiday?"

"Your mother and I considered skipping the village visit this year, but your great-uncle is ninety-eight and in poor health. This might be his last..."

Lu Guifan lifted Xiao Wei into his arms. The little girl’s hair had grown longer, now tied into two tiny braids adorned with the candy-shaped hair clips Jiang Ruotang had bought before the semester began.

"Then I’ll take Xiao Wei to Ruo Tang’s place."

"Won’t we be intruding?"

"Not at all. Just drive carefully on your way back, Dad."

So, on New Year’s Eve, Lu Guifan carried Xiao Wei to the Jiang residence. The moment they stepped inside, everyone clamored to hold her, cooing over how rosy-cheeked she looked—like a living New Year’s poster child. Her pockets were soon stuffed with candy and red envelopes, and she ended up perched on Zhao Zhangfeng’s shoulders, giggling uncontrollably.

But Jiang Ruotang noticed something else—a ring on Lu Guifan’s finger. Black, stone-like, yet catching metallic glints under the light. Unremarkable at first glance, but the longer he looked, the more weirdly fascinating its texture became.

During the New Year’s feast, Jiang Ruotang couldn’t resist playing with Lu Guifan’s hand, tracing the ring. The sensation was oddly captivating.

Every time he tried to slip it off, Lu Guifan would curl his fingers, casually sliding it back into place.

After several failed attempts, Jiang Ruotang grew frustrated. If he’d touched Lu Guifan’s "little boat," why was this ring off-limits?

Later, when Lu Guifan went to shower, Jiang Ruotang assumed he’d remove the ring—only to realize he’d taken it with him. Fuming, Jiang Ruotang threw a fake punch at the bathroom door.

Zhao Zhangfeng, passing by, teased, "If you’re so tough, go in and hit him for real. Don’t just swing wildly out here."

"Am I still your brother?"

"You are," Zhao Zhangfeng grinned, "but not biologically. Hehe."

Dodging Jiang Ruotang’s kick, he ducked into his room.

Lu Guifan emerged from the shower, towel-drying his hair, to find Jiang Ruotang cross-legged on the bed, sulking like a pissed-off chipmunk.

"What?"

"Stop acting clueless. Who gave you that ring? Why’s it so precious? I want to see it!"

Jiang Ruotang thrust out his palm demandingly. Instead of complying, Lu Guifan bent down and kissed his palm, murmuring, "Kiss me. If I’m satisfied, maybe I’ll..."

The next second, Jiang Ruotang yanked him forward by the collar, smashing their mouths together in a kiss that was equal parts bratty and claiming. Soft lips, but his tongue pushed in with purposeful pressure, tauntingly skimming the roof of Lu Guifan’s mouth, evading every countermove.

Lu Guifan’s stomach flipped. He pressed deeper, one hand cradling Jiang Ruotang’s head to stop his squirming.

Jiang Ruotang tried to straighten his legs, but Lu Guifan’s larger frame pinned him effortlessly.

What began as Jiang Ruotang’s daring move quickly turned into Lu Guifan’s conquest—a hungry, devouring kiss that left him breathless yet craving more. He fisted Lu Guifan’s hair and pajamas, but the other man was single-minded, pouring every ounce of desperate need into the kiss.

When Jiang Ruotang finally tore away, gasping, Lu Guifan thumbed away the dampness at the corner of his eye, his eyes black with want.

Then, pinching Jiang Ruotang’s nose, he waited for his parted lips before taking them back, locking out everything else until nothing existed but the two of them—ruined and remade.

Jiang Ruotang knew what Lu Guifan wanted. Nervous? Yes. Afraid? A little. But above all, he was wanting it.

As the New Year’s countdown began, fireworks erupted outside and from the TV downstairs, their booms merging into a deafening crescendo—past and future colliding in the present.

When his mind was about to short-circuit, Jiang Ruotang faintly noticed Lu Guifan’s hand tightly interlaced with his—and on his own finger, a matching black band had appeared.

Later, he learned it was made from meteorite, tracked down by Professor Yang and verified as harmless despite its ancient, older than humanity origins.

Curled into Lu Guifan, Jiang Ruotang held his hand up to the sunlight streaming through the glass. The black ring’s edges glowed faintly, wrapping his finger like a promise.

"If you don't like it, give it back to me." Lu Guifan reached out to grab Jiang Ruotang's fingertips, but Jiang Ruotang dodged.

"This is mine. Don’t even think about it."

Watching Jiang Ruotang gently stroke the ring over and over, Lu Guifan muttered to himself, "I thought you’d think it was ugly."

"How is it ugly? It’s from the cosmos—maybe it’s the Butterfly Nebula from your paintings?"

Lu Guifan was about to say that was impossible and analyze the nebula’s composition when he suddenly remembered Jiang Ruotang once said the Butterfly Nebula looked like two hearts colliding.

At least, this ring came from his heart, and his heart could be any place Jiang Ruotang wished—even the Butterfly Nebula.

On the third day of the Lunar New Year, Jiang Ruotang accompanied Lu Guifan back to the Lu family home.

While Lu Guifan helped his parents prepare the meal, Jiang Ruotang played with Xiao Wei in the living room.

The little girl got tons of sparkly stickers during the holidays and stuck them everywhere—on Jiang Ruotang’s face, neck, and hands.

When placing stickers on his fingers, Xiao Wei said very seriously, "I saw it."

Jiang Ruotang froze. What had she seen? He and Lu Guifan had always been careful not to let her catch them kissing.

"I saw you and Brother have the same ring. So does that make you my brother too?"

Jiang Ruotang’s heart instantly softened. "Yes, I’m Xiao Wei’s brother too."

"Then Ruo Tang-gege has to promise not to disappear, just like Gui Fan-gege—you’ll always be Xiao Wei’s brother."

Jiang Ruotang hooked his finger with hers and whispered, "Ruo Tang-gege promises not to disappear. He’ll stay with Gui Fan to watch you grow up."

"Mm!" Xiao Wei nodded vigorously, then picked out the prettiest sticker to place on Jiang Ruotang’s fingernail.

Not to disappoint her, Jiang Ruotang had to sit through the reunion dinner covered in colorful stickers.

On the sixth day of the New Year, Jiang Ruotang helped Lu Guifan get ready. Lu Guifan considered wearing contact lenses, but Jiang Ruotang objected.

"Why? Didn’t you say I look handsome with contacts and my forehead showing?"

Jiang Ruotang gave him a cool glance. "The Mu family’s guests are all elites, right? There must be plenty of handsome men and beautiful women. Must you go shatter hearts?"

Lu Guifan chuckled, pinching the bridge of his nose, and resignedly put on his black-framed glasses. In this world, only Jiang Ruotang truly understood him, and only Jiang Ruotang loved him unconditionally. No one else could ever stir his heart.

Besides, someone like Jiang Ruotang—handsome, smart, and good-tempered—was way more likely to turn heads.

The Mu family’s ancestral home was a historic Western-style mansion. The guests weren’t as numerous as expected, but many were prominent industrialists in Sheng City—the true economic powerhouses.

Mu Xianqing’s father, Mu He, was a stern and imposing man, the kind who commanded authority in business. In contrast, Mu Xianqing’s mother was slender and elegant. She had collected and displayed several of Jiang Ruotang’s paintings and chatted with him throughout the dinner. Witty and charming, she introduced Jiang Ruotang to the other Mu family elders and business partners, while Lu Guifan was pulled aside by an industrialist interested in battery technology for a private discussion.

Unable to join the conversation, Jiang Ruotang looked for Mu Xianqing and found him drinking lazily on the balcony, dodging small talk.

Approaching him, Jiang Ruotang grinned. "What’s on your mind?"

"Thinking about how you came bearing no gifts during the New Year—not even bringing me a painting. You could’ve at least brought some of your art school assignments for me to see."

Jiang Ruotang laughed, resting his chin on his hand. "Brother Mu, want to get rich together? If not for your family’s money, I wouldn’t even invite you."

Mu Xianqing choked. "You actually admit you’re only close to me because of my family’s money?"

"Absolutely!"

After joking around, Jiang Ruotang brought up Cai Ji’s game—its design, market potential, and international trends, especially comparing it to Doyle Group’s *Age of Kings*. He discussed revenue models and projections, outlining a vivid picture of the vast gaming market and business opportunities ahead.

"We’ve got a billion-plus market—why hand it over to others? How much mythology does *Age of Kings* even have? We have an entire intricate mythological system to draw from. We should be playing our own games."

After listening, Mu Xianqing smirked meaningfully. "You only come to me when you need me to share the investment costs."

"Then how about I paint your portrait? So you don’t feel neglected."

"Fine, but no half-measures. We have a studio here—paint me now. Consider it an honor for you to capture my dashing looks."

"My god, can someone prune this narcissus?"

When it came to art and making money, Mu Xianqing’s efficiency was astonishing.

Almost the next day, Mu Xianqing discussed the game with Mu He, whose interest surpassed all expectations. He immediately analyzed and evaluated Cai Ji’s game, covering every technical, operational, and legal aspect in a report, then invited Cai Ji and the other developers for a meeting.

Cai Ji’s friends were stunned—this was Deyi Tianxia Group!

They rushed to prepare a presentation, but Lu Guifan suggested they simply play the game live while one person provided commentary, for clearer demonstration.

After watching the students play for an hour, Mu He and the others naturally grasped the gameplay and unique features—even faster than the players themselves.

After the meeting, Mu He told Mu Xianqing, "I used to think gaming was just a waste of time. But watching those kids play today made me realize game development is a competition of technology and creativity—it’s part of the tech industry. Why should we concede? How can we lose?"

Hearing this, Mu Xianqing knew the deal was sealed.

Before the semester started, Deyi Tianxia finalized the investment—a whopping one billion, with Jiang Ruotang contributing two hundred million. Qi Yanfeng and Chen Qian also invested. When Cai Ji and his team heard the amount, their legs nearly gave out—good thing they hadn’t jumped at earlier offers.

For this game, Deyi Tianxia and the investors established a dedicated company, with Cai Ji and his team staying on as core technical staff, holding tech shares and profit participation. Fired up and mentored by experienced mentors, they eagerly absorbed practical knowledge.

Watching Cai Ji type code at his computer, Jiang Ruotang felt overwhelming admiration, as if seeing a future tech mogul.

"Hm?" Cai Ji glanced up at him, tilting his head.

"Nothing. Just save your hairline."

Cai Ji: "..."

After the semester began, the collegiate basketball regionals kicked off.

Zhao Changfeng’s Capital University of Science and Technology dominated the competition, taking the title, with Zhao Changfeng snagging both top rebounder and MVP.

Two months later, the national finals began.

Jiang Ruotang and the others cheered themselves hoarse. In the last ten seconds, Zhao Changfeng grabbed a rebound, sprinted downcourt, and faced three defenders. With a hook shot, he scored, swinging the game and bringing the house down.

Watching him raise his fists in victory, drowning in deafening cheers, Jiang Ruotang’s eyes welled up, remembering the Zhao Changfeng from his past life—the one who’d lost his chance at sports, gentle but broken.

*I’m so proud of you, Changfeng.*

To his surprise, Zhao Changfeng rushed to the stands, hoisting Jiang Ruotang onto his shoulders.

"Brother—thank you! Thank you!" Zhao Changfeng bellowed with everything he had.

Through the roar of the crowd, Jiang Ruotang heard only that one word—*Brother*—shouted with all his might.

Tears fell as Jiang Ruotang covered his eyes. "Changfeng, this is only the start. You’ll reach even greater heights."

Two weeks after the match, Zhao Zhangfeng received an email from across the ocean—completely in English, like Greek to him.

Since the college entrance exams ended, he had forgotten all his English. Now, he could only make out a few words, but it seemed like some kind of invitation.

He couldn’t be bothered to figure it out himself, so he grabbed his laptop and went straight to Lu Guifan. "Help me out here, what the hell does this say?"

After reading it, Lu Guifan smiled. "Zhang Feng, you’ve really arrived."

"I *have* made it—I was even named rebounding champion in the national tournament!"

"I mean this email—it’s a tryout invitation from a top NCAA school. You can go play with them this summer. If they take a shine to you, you might even stay, join their college league, maybe even declare for the draft and get into the NBA you’ve been dreaming about," Lu Guifan explained.

Zhao Zhangfeng’s eyes nearly bugged out. "Seriously?!"

"Seriously. Assuming you make the cut, that is." Lu Guifan glanced at him sideways. "Zhang Feng, the semester’s almost over. Even as an athlete, you still have academic courses, right? Are you even going to pass your finals this term?"

"Ugh, why do you always burst my bubble when I’m happiest?"

With that, Zhao Zhangfeng huffed off with his laptop—only to turn back after a few steps.

"Can you reply for me? Tell them I’d be excited to participate?"

Lu Guifan chuckled. "You should really learn some English. What if the coach calls you up during training and you don’t even understand?"

Zhao Zhangfeng suddenly felt a headache coming on. Why did he have to learn English *again*?!

June passed, and summer rolled around again.

Lu Guifan went to pick up Jiang Ruotang from the art academy, but Jiang Ruotang texted that he was in the campus art gallery.

Since Lu Guifan was from another school, he had to buy a ticket to enter. The staff kindly informed him that the gallery would close in half an hour.

Visitors were already streaming out.

As Lu Guifan strolled inside, he spotted Jiang Ruotang right away—standing in front of the painting *Back View*, which depicted Lu Guifan’s own back.

"What’s on your mind?" Lu Guifan stood beside him. Every time he saw this painting, he felt a strange pang, because the Jiang Ruotang who painted it had been watching him leave.

"Thinking of you," Jiang Ruotang said. "And also, have you decided on your path yet?"

"Yeah. I still lean toward renewable energy," Lu Guifan replied.

Jiang Ruotang smiled. "I figured as much. I’ve made my decision too."

"About what?"

"Remember Mr. Klein?"

"Of course. The professor from that prestigious art school, the famous modern painter. After you took the entrance exams here, you painted the century-old gate of Capital University of Science and Technology, and he watched you for a long time before handing you his card."

"Right. He’s invited me to his school for an art exchange—as an exchange student."

A slow, dawn-like smile spread across Lu Guifan’s lips.

"Really? That’s amazing."

"Really. I looked it up—Professor Yang’s university, M University, is in the same city. It’s a bit far, about thirty minutes apart, but you’ll drive over to see me, right? And pick me up from school?" Jiang Ruotang’s smile held a playful glint.

Lu Guifan turned his head. "How did you know I was considering M University? I just got the invitation today."

"Wait, really? Professor Yang invited you? I was planning to beg him to send you one!"

Jiang Ruotang stepped closer, looping his arm through Lu Guifan’s. The gallery was now down to just the two of them.

"I was trying to figure out how to break it to you. Guess I can reply to him tonight."

"Once you go this time, you *have* to recruit Professor Yang—along with some top grad students. Then you can start a new energy tech company. If you’re short on capital, I’ll invest! And then you can design batteries that can be used on rockets..."

Lu Guifan watched Jiang Ruotang’s bright-eyed enthusiasm as he mapped out their future—the wellspring of all his happiness and hope in life.

As they left the gallery, Jiang Ruotang cast one last look at *Back View*.

The world changed too quickly, and there were too many uncertainties between people.

Jiang Ruotang had changed the course of many lives—his own, Zhao Zhangfeng’s, Jian Sha’s, and Cai Ji’s.

But some things remained constant, things he could never change no matter what.

Like how he loved the feeling of resting against his back, treasured the tenderness in his gaze, and even after traveling over mountains and oceans to return to the beginning of time, still wanted to stay by his side.

No matter how many variables existed in this world, they would always be each other’s true north.

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