After Jian Xingsui finished speaking, there was an eerie silence on the other end of the line. This silence cast a shadow over Jian's heart, causing his breathing to slow.

Just as he was puzzled, he heard Zhang's mother quickly add, "Haha, don't get it wrong. I have type A blood, and your father is type B."

Jian Xingsui blinked in confusion but nodded, "I see."

He said this aloud, but deep down, he remained skeptical. If An Ran wrote 'A' in the form and one of the Zhangs was lying, could it be because they couldn't coordinate their stories without phones? Jian Xingsui was uncertain, but as he was still filming, he had to accept it for now.

After hanging up, Jian Xingsui returned the phone, but his mood had undeniably changed.

It was only now that Shen Xingchen approached and asked, "Is anyone from your family attending this event?"

"Huh? Not necessarily," Jian Xingsui honestly responded. "They probably won't come; they seem to be quite busy with work."

Shen Xingchen scoffed, "Joining a show recording isn't something to be ashamed of. What work could possibly be so important? Are they saving the world?"

Jian Xingsui was suddenly at a loss for words.

While Shen Xingchen was always blunt, it was precisely because of this that his words pierced the heart. If other CEOs, worth millions, can find the time, why can't they?

Love and indifference are always evident.

Jian Xingsui wasn't as saddened as he had imagined. He just smiled faintly and softly commented, "Yes... you're right."

...

the next day

The club was bustling today.

On Parents' Visitation Day, many students were excited. Some hadn’t seen their families for over a month, so the chance was obviously thrilling for them.

Early in the morning, mentors gathered all the students. Fu Jinxiao stood at the forefront. Despite wearing casual sportswear to avoid overshadowing the students, his mature charm was distinct, making it hard to look away.

"This afternoon, your parents will be here. So before they arrive, prepare something heartfelt for them," Fu Jinxiao said, pointing to the pen and paper on the table. "Write about your hopes and dreams for the future. Keep this letter to hand to your family when they arrive."

Everyone received a sheet of paper.

Holding the paper, Jian Xingsui didn't know how to begin. While most around him started writing, he stared blankly at the blank sheet. Not wanting to be left idle, he began to sketch gently.

A voice nearby inquired, "What are you drawing?"

Startled, Jian Xingsui looked up to find Fu Jinxiao next to him, making him slightly nervous.

"I asked you a question," Fu Jinxiao pressed, "What are you drawing?"

On Jian Xingsui's sheet was a sketch. A large house with a lone figure inside, surrounded by scattered items resembling CDs. Despite the abundance of items, the figure appeared lonely.

Jian Xingsui whispered, "It's a home."

Family?

A home for one person?

Fu Jinxiao recalled the day's theme about future aspirations. Was Jian Xingsui's future... to be alone?

He had heard about the recent call event where everyone got through, except for this boy, whose calls went unanswered. It was heartbreaking.

"Is this how you envision your future home?" Fu Jinxiao asked, his deep gaze unwavering. He didn't chide Jian for not drawing family members or for not writing a letter. Instead, he simply asked, "What's the figure in your drawing watching?"

Jian Xingsui honestly answered, "Watching TV."

In his vision, his future aspiration was to own a house and have a steady job. Perhaps venture into other professions if things went well. He'd then quietly follow his idols on screen. It might be a simple, peaceful life, but given his past experiences, such a life would be a luxury.

Fu Jinxiao softly pointed out, "You haven't finished drawing the TV."

Jian Xingsui nodded, "Yes."

"Give me the pen." Fu Jinxiao took the pen from Jian Xingsui's hand and sketched a small figure on the television screen.

Jian Xingsui asked, "Who is this?"

Fu Jinxiao arched an eyebrow, "Can't you tell?"

Jian Xingsui chuckled, his eyes brightening when he laughed, "How did you know I'd be watching you?"

"Hmm?"

Fu Jinxiao's deep voice, both sultry and magnetic, carried a hidden smirk as he replied, "Isn't it me?"

"..."

It is you.

For a moment, Jian Xingsui felt his heart thud heavily. He looked at the drawing on the table. Now, instead of a solitary figure imagining the future, there were two. Even though the other was still within the confines of the TV screen, they were both on the same sheet. And this time, it wasn't just a figment of Jian's imagination; Fu Jinxiao had added himself.

Fu Jinxiao could have reacted to the drawing in numerous ways, even questioning why there wasn't a letter could have embarrassed Jian, but he didn't. A few strokes seemed to illuminate Jian's world.

"Why so silent?" Fu Jinxiao stood up, "Are you mad I altered your drawing?"

Jian Xingsui quickly shook his head, "Not at all!"

His eyes glistened.

Perhaps it was just a casual gesture, but for that lonely figure, it was an immense warmth. Oh, how he adored him.

"I'm not upset," he said, holding the drawing clumsily, even explaining, "I will treasure and keep this safe. Truly."

Fu Jinxiao smirked, "How will you keep it? Frame it at home or pass it down as a family heirloom?"

Jian Xingsui's cheeks reddened slightly, "Not to that extent."

Fu Jinxiao stopped teasing, "Nevertheless, take good care of it. I'll check later."

With that, the movie star moved on to the next table, but Jian Xingsui was left stunned. What did he mean by... check later?

After this show, would there be any 'later' between them?

...

afternoon

On the day the parents were to visit, the director gathered all the students in a hall. The parents, dressed up for their television appearances, walked in one by one on the red carpet.

Parents entered one after the other, their children rushing to greet and embrace them. The scene was heartwarming.

Jian Xingsui sat on the sidelines, feeling detached from the surrounding bustle.

Shen Xingchen remarked, "I wonder who from our family will show up this time."

Hearing this, Jian Xingsui queried, "Isn't your aunt coming?"

"Not sure, she and my dad might be on a business trip abroad," Shen Xingchen leaned back, "I just hope it's not my elder brother."

Jian Xingsui asked curiously, "What's with your elder brother? Is he intimidating?"

Upon hearing this, Shen Xingchen showed a fearful expression, counting on his fingers, "I can count the number of people I'm afraid of on one hand, and you're about to meet most of them."

Fu Jinxiao, the man who smiles but has a dark heart, he's not to be trifled with.

Xu Enzhen, a seemingly gentle mother who won’t hesitate to chase him with a rolling pin.

And then there's his elder brother, Shen Minglang. It's not that he's as vengeful and difficult as Fu Jinxiao, but he's always lecturing, emphasizes rules, cares about profit and money. While Shen Xingchen is someone who despises rules, their clashes are quite intense. And Shen Xingchen dares not defy his elder brother's authority, causing him much distress.

Shen Xingchen began praying, "I hope it's not my elder brother."

Jian Xingsui chuckled, "The more you think about it, the more likely it's going to happen."

After hearing this, Shen Xingchen was about to retort, but his words got stuck in his throat. The reason? Another parent was making an entrance, a man in a well-fitted suit stepping onto the red carpet. Each of his steps seemed measured and precise.

As the camera focused on his face, Shen Minglang barely frowned before continuing his walk. Meanwhile, the online audience was in shock.

"Whose parent is this?"

"That's Shen Xingchen's brother!"

"Wow, I've shifted from being a fan of Xingchen to his sister-in-law."

"Hahaha..."

Shen Minglang sat down next to Shen Xingchen and gave his brother a cold side glance. "Have some posture when you sit. Did someone break your back?"

Previously lounging, Shen Xingchen immediately sat up straight.

Jian Xingsui initially thought Shen Minglang was concerned about his brother's posture for the cameras. But when out of the camera's view, Shen Minglang casually remarked, "After all the money I've spent on promoting you, if you can't even sit properly, are you trying to make me suffer a loss?"

Shen Xingchen exclaimed, "All you care about is money! You don't consider my feelings at all."

"I'm spending money on promoting you, and you say I don't care about your feelings?" Shen Minglang, looking every bit the shrewd businessman behind his glasses, scoffed, "Perhaps you should also start caring about the money's 'feelings'."

Shen Xingchen, flustered, retorted, "Do you think I even need to be promoted with money? Ask my fans! Aren't they attracted to my talent and looks?"

Adjusting his glasses, Shen Minglang responded, "Then work harder, create more value, and don't cause me any losses."

Shen Xingchen grew even more frustrated.

Sitting beside them, Jian Xingsui looked sympathetically at the young master. Who would've thought that his elder brother would be such a sharp businessman? It seemed that even young masters had their difficult days.

As glow sticks and bracelets were handed out, Jian Xingsui naturally took one for Shen Xingchen too. When a staff member came for some information, Jian also took the liberty to provide Shen Xingchen's dormitory details and schedule, being very thoughtful.

Although this was a simple gesture, Shen Xingchen felt the intensity of his brother's gaze growing stricter and hotter, making him feel like he was being grilled.

Turning to his brother, Shen Xingchen introduced, "Brother, this is my good friend I met here, Jian Xingsui."

Shen Minglang gazed at Jian Xingsui.

Jian Xingsui felt apprehensive in front of this strictly principled elder brother. As he hesitated on how to initiate a polite greeting, Shen Minglang took the lead, extending a hand: "Hello, I'm Shen Minglang."

Without hesitation, Jian Xingsui took his hand: "I'm Jian Xingsui."

"I've heard a lot about you," Shen Minglang said with a deep voice. "Thank you for putting up with my younger brother. I truly appreciate it."

Jian Xingsui was taken aback by the unexpected courtesy from such a formidable figure. "Oh, it's no trouble at all."

Shen Xingchen, on the side, was visibly taken aback. "Hey! When did I ever cause trouble? If anything, Xingsui is like my younger brother, and I always have his back!"

Shen Minglang, accustomed to his brother's antics, continued addressing Jian Xingsui, "If he ever steps out of line, please treat him like any other roommate. If any issue arises, you can reach out to me. Here's my card."

Jian Xingsui accepted the gold-embossed card, thinking, This is quite the opulent gesture, befitting of a corporate mogul.

As he watched his friend's disgruntled expression, Jian Xingsui felt a hint of envy. Shen Minglang, despite his stern demeanor, clearly cared deeply for his younger brother.

Once, he too had an elder brother.

But all his brother ever offered him was coldness and disdain, even after being reunited with their biological parents.

"Great! All our parents have now arrived!" the host, Teacher Li, announced. "Let's move on to the parent-child interactive game!"

For those without parents present, they could opt-out of today's recording.

Though Jian Xingsui had anticipated this, he wasn't sure whether to feel relieved or disappointed. As he prepared to leave, the production team stopped him.

A staff member explained, "If you're not participating in today's recording, please head to the library for some leisure reading."

Perhaps feeling sorry for the students without their parents, the production team did their part to comfort them.

Naturally, Jian Xingsui went along.

The library was serene, with only a handful of students scattered about. Given the mood, no one was in the mood to chat, so everyone focused on their own tasks.

That afternoon, as he read, a commotion outside drew his attention.

"Sounds like someone's coming," whispered a fellow student.

Jian Xingsui looked out to see a large group approaching. Leading them was An Ran, holding a basket, presumably filled with food, which he started distributing to the non-participating students.

"Please, don't be shy."

"We made these during lunch."

"I hope you like it."

An Ran, popular on this show for his generosity and likable demeanor, quickly drew a crowd.

Among them, Jian Xingsui spotted Jian Gu and Jian Kuo, the contrast in their treatment towards him stark against their warmth towards others. "Please, help yourselves. We owe a lot to all of you for looking after Ran."

The other academies have been expressing their gratitude, saying that Uncle is too kind.

It was only now that Jian Xingsui realized that it wasn't that his father didn't care about others; he just didn't want to care for him in the past.

He sat near the back by the bookshelves, thinking it would be a quiet spot without disturbances. But to his surprise, even though he tried to keep a low profile, someone still approached him as he turned to the next page.

"Xingsui, you're here," An Ran said as she approached with some items in her hands. "Let's eat something together. My father and brother made these."

Jian Xingsui put down his book and glanced at the basket in her hand. Inside were delicate-looking pastries, which turned out to be seaweed buns. He had always detested seaweed since childhood and even had a mild allergic reaction to it. He shook his head, "Thank you, I'm not hungry."

"Please, have a little. Don't be shy," An Ran urged warmly. "They're really delicious."

Their conversation drew the attention of others.

From a distance, Jian Gu and Jian Kuo noticed and swiftly approached, asking, "What's going on?"

An Ran said in a slightly aggrieved tone, "I just wanted to share some pastries with Xingsui."

Jian Gu immediately looked at Jian Xingsui. Even though they were once family, his gaze was distressingly cold and indifferent, even slightly reproachful, "Xingsui, An Ran is just trying to be kind. Just have a little."

At this moment, Jian Xingsui's heart turned ice-cold.

Living under the same roof, they were oblivious to what he was allergic to. And now, they even pressured him.

Holding his book, Jian Xingsui flatly refused, "I said I'm not hungry, and I don't want any."

The usually strict elder brother, Jian Kuo, chided with a paternal tone, "You two are trainees here together. An Ran just wanted to share with you. Even if you're not hungry, you shouldn't..."

"I've already thanked her," Jian Xingsui, unable to contain himself any longer, looked up at Jian Kuo, "Moreover, I'm allergic to seaweed. I cannot partake."

Upon hearing this, the expressions of both Jian Gu and Jian Kuo changed.

At that moment, perhaps they felt a bit embarrassed or guilty, but for some reason, they didn't show it. Only An Ran stepped forward, offering a rather insincere apology, and then led her father and brother away.

The other students bid them farewell in succession.

Someone, while munching on a cake, approached Jian Xingsui and said, "Xingsui, aren't you going to say goodbye to your uncle and Mr. Jian?"

"No need," Jian Xingsui said, his eyes on his book. His voice was firm and clear, "I'm not close to them."

The father and son, already at the door, paused slightly in their step, having overheard. They hesitated for a moment, as if in disbelief.

As a father, Jian Gu involuntarily turned back, but all he saw was the figure of Jian Xingsui, sitting at a distance, engrossed in his book, not paying them any heed—as if they would never matter to him, now or ever.

...

A bit later, while in the library, Jian Xingsui received a message that someone was looking for him outside.

Somewhat puzzled, he exited the library, only to find the Zhang couple waiting in the reception hall, with a thermos box beside them.

Jian Xingsui was at a loss for words, and he hesitated as he entered.

"Xingsui!" Zhang Xia stood up, looking somewhat elated, "You've arrived?"

Jian Xingsui stepped in, nodding slightly.

Zhang Xia approached, warmly taking his hand. "Your father and I rushed here to see you. We didn’t expect to be late. I'm sorry for any inconvenience you’ve endured.”

A flutter in Jian Xingsui's heart.

They did come after all, just a bit late…

Zhang Xiangyang also approached, handing Jian Xingsui a thermal container. "Your mother and I prepared some dumplings for you. They got a bit jostled on the way, and some broke. I hope you don't mind."

They even brought something for him.

Clasping the container, he could still feel its warmth, warming his heart in the process.

Although he initially felt distant towards the Zhang couple, their appearance today and their thoughtful gesture melted his heart. Softly, he replied, "It's okay, I don't mind."

"Did you all…" His demeanor, previously distant, now turned warm and gentle. "Did you find a hotel? Are you both settled in?"

Zhang Xiangyang smiled, "All sorted. Don’t worry."

Zhang Xia also said affectionately, "Yes, don’t stress. We’re fine. Make sure you take good care of yourself here. Eat well."

It felt like ages since anyone cared for him this much.

This moment felt so warm, as if he too was cherished by his parents just like everyone else.

His previous suspicions about them seemed to fade a bit. At least for now, he felt touched by their kindness.

Jian Xingsui felt warmth spreading in his heart. His eyes sparkled with joy as he reassured them, "Don't worry, I'm doing well. My mentors here are very supportive, and I promise I'll work hard."

The Zhang couple shared a smile. After some brief chit-chat, they left due to time constraints.

Carrying the container, Jian Xingsui walked towards his dorm, feeling elated. In the hallway, he ran into Fu Jinxiao who was talking with Shen Yuelang, Shen Xingchen’s older brother.

Jian Xingsui paused, bowing slightly, "Hello, Brother Fu, Brother Shen."

His voice was full of energy and cheer.

Fu Jinxiao, noting the joyous glint in the younger man’s eyes and the container in his hand, teased, "Ah, a special delivery from home?"

With Fu Jinxiao's deep and melodic voice ringing in his ears, Jian Xingsui felt even happier. "Yes, vegetarian dumplings from home. My family owns a rice cake and pastry shop. There are some pastries and snacks inside, but they got a bit damaged during the travel. If you don't mind, you're welcome to try some."

Fu Jinxiao replied casually, unlike his stern on-stage persona, "Hold on, these are treasures from your family. Enjoy them yourself. But remember, don’t overindulge! You need to maintain your weight; if you gain too much, you won't look as good on screen. And if the fans complain, you’ll be the one crying."

Jian Xingsui chuckled, "Got it. How about you, Brother Shen?"

Shen Yuelang, pleasantly surprised by Jian’s offer, responded, "Thank you, but I’ve already eaten."

Undeterred, Jian Xingsui waved at them, "Then, I’ll be on my way."

The child dashed off, vanishing in a blink.

As Fu Jinxiao's gaze shifted from him, it met Shen Minglang's profound eyes, "Why are you staring at me?"

Shen Minglang remarked, "You seem fond of this student."

Fu Jinxiao's habitual smile remained, "Oh? I don't recall disliking any of them."

"Nor being particularly fond of anyone, right?"

As childhood friends, Shen Minglang knew him well. He may be a cunning businessman with self-interests, but he never hid this. Fu Jinxiao, however, was different – outwardly affable to everyone but truly close to none. His handsome face was a perfect mask for a man driven purely by self-interests. Shen had witnessed Fu jovially engaging one moment and turning ice-cold the next when business ties were severed.

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, "What brings that on?"

"Too much chatter."

"..."

"He's long gone, yet you're still smiling."

"..."

Fu Jinxiao clicked his tongue, speaking leisurely with an air of detachment, "I just thought he was well-mannered and sensible, so I took a little more notice. If it were someone else, it'd be the same."

Shen Minglang remained silent.

He trusted his intuition over Fu Jinxiao's ever-deceptive words.

Meanwhile,

Jian Xingsui, holding his thermal container, plotted to share the treats with his roommates for a pleasant feast. Any leftovers would be stored in the canteen refrigerator...

"Wow, Ran Ran! These dumplings from your home are delicious!"

As he passed a dorm room, an exclamation halted his steps.

He felt paralyzed, unable to move an inch, hearing An Ran's gentle voice inside, "Have as much as you like. They've just arrived and are still warm."

"These pastries look so delicate!"

"And these meat dumplings taste amazing!"

"Ran Ran, your parents truly adore you, delivering these so late!"

An Ran chuckled, "They're just worried about me getting too exhausted from training, insisting on visiting."

On one side of the wall, there was joy and warmth, a story filled with affection. The room echoed with laughter and chatter. Yet on the other side, someone felt as if plunged into an icy abyss.

His dumplings and pastries were intact; Jian's were damaged.

His dumplings had meat filling; Jian's were vegetarian.

They visited An Ran first, and then themselves.

Laughter and voices filled the air, making Jian Xingsui feel like a joke. His previous joy and gratitude turned ironic, as he now felt like a live clown. His fingers, gripping the thermos, turned pale from suppressed rage. It was nearly autumn, and even though the hallway was cooled by an air conditioner, he felt bone-chillingly cold.

From inside, An Ran's laughter echoed, "You guys enjoy. I won't eat any, I've had too many pastries earlier and I'm stuffed."

Jian Xingsui hadn't eaten much during the day. Now, feeling a tad hungry and a faint pain in his stomach, he slowly approached the dormitory. He crouched slightly to place the thermos by An Ran's door, pausing for a moment before wiping his face with the back of his hand and turning away.

...

Half an hour later,

Fu Jinxiao and Shen Minglang, two good friends, met up. After a lengthy conversation, the film star personally escorted his friend. As they talked, they unexpectedly bumped into Jian Xingsui, who seemed far more dazed and out of it than before, almost walking like he was in a trance.

Taking a turn, he almost collided with them.

Fu Jinxiao quickly grabbed his arm, preventing a mishap. He chuckled, "Young man, not watching your step?"

Jian Xingsui snapped back to reality. Looking up to meet Fu Jinxiao's gaze, he quickly apologized, "I'm sorry."

Fu Jinxiao subtly frowned, noticing Jian Xingsui's previously gleeful eyes were now tear-red and heartbreakingly sorrowful. Yet, even in this state, he still managed to muster a smile and apologize.

Fu Jinxiao began, "You..."

Jian Xingsui hurriedly lowered his head, "I promise it won't happen again. The dormitory lights will be off soon, I should head back. Goodbye, Mr. Fu, goodbye, Mr. Shen."

No sooner had he spoken than he darted off.

Fu Jinxiao turned to watch him, looking contemplative.

Shen Minglang, curious about this friend of his younger brother, inquired with a worker about Jian's earlier absence during dinner, learning that Jian only ate just then. This was strange, considering his family had sent him food.

Despite his curiosity, Shen Minglang noticed Fu Jinxiao’s silence. When he finally spoke, it was only to say, "Let me walk you home."

Shen Minglang, "Aren't you curious? Won't you investigate?"

Remembering Jian Xingsui's red eyes, Fu Jinxiao felt an inexplicable annoyance but kept his face neutral, casting a glance at his friend, "Is it any of my business?"

Shen Minglang simply shrugged without a word.

As the two prepared to leave, they coincidentally bumped into An Ran descending the stairs. Noticing them, he jogged over. The young man's features were delicate and handsome, and he greeted them with a sunny smile, "Hello, Mr. Fu. Hello, Mr. Shen!"

Fu Jinxiao turned, intending to give a brief acknowledgment and move on, but his gaze caught the thermos in An Ran's hand, causing him to pause.

Noticing Fu Jinxiao's interest, An Ran kindly offered, "Mr. Fu, would you like to try some?"

Fu Jinxiao narrowed his eyes in a dangerous manner, but his lips still formed a smile, "Did your family send this?"

An Ran enthusiastically replied, "Yes! Inside are special rice cake pastries. Would you like to try some?"

"No need," Fu Jinxiao responded with a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes, "I'm allergic to rice cakes."

An Ran looked momentarily embarrassed. "I see."

Shen Minglang, standing to the side, stifled a soft chuckle. Noticing, An Ran inquired, "Mr. Shen, would you like to try some?"

For some reason, when Shen Minglang was asked the same question by another student earlier, he had felt it was courteous and had a good impression. But hearing it from An Ran, who was holding the same container, his instincts from navigating treacherous business waters told him something was off. Considering that this might have to do with a close friend of his younger brother, he subtly revealed his discontent by replying with a smile, "No thanks. I'm allergic as well."

An Ran hadn't expected this response. Feeling awkward, he couldn't help but think that both Fu Yingdi and Mr. Shen seemed to dislike him for some unknown reason. Embarrassed, he made a hasty exit.

Fu Yingdi cast a sidelong glance at Shen Minglang, raising an eyebrow. "Since when are you allergic to rice cakes?"

"Aren't you?" Shen Minglang teased. "Didn't you claim you don't dislike any of the participants? Why are you targeting him?"

He sounded protective, much like a young lad defending a younger friend.

Fu Yingdi replied, "I just became allergic. Is that not allowed?"

With a slight smirk, Shen Minglang responded, "Coincidentally, so did I."

"..."

the next day

To boost the show's ratings, the production team organized a contest between groups of participants. The winners would get an opportunity for an outing to enjoy a hotpot feast.

All were eager to participate, and with the mentors serving as judges, the atmosphere was buzzing.

This session was pre-recorded, not live. Hence, some students felt more relaxed. The selection process involved drawing lots, with team leaders picking their opponents based on room assignments.

When it was Shen Xingchen's turn to draw, the others voiced their concerns:

"Don't pick a strong opponent!"

"Hope your luck holds!"

"Go for it, room leader!"

Shen Xingchen gave them a determined look and confidently reached into the box, drawing a red ball.

Teacher Li asked, "Which room drew the red ball?"

From a group of silent rooms, a hand timidly raised, and An Ran's room stood up.

Shen Xingchen grinned, "It's fate."

Zhou Xun also stood up, saying, "Let's see who's better then."

"Sure thing." Shen Xingchen, hands on hips and playfully flipping off Zhou Xun, boasted, "Think I'm scared? Bring it on! Let's show them what true skill is and what a shutout looks like!"

His words stirred excitement among the participants, who cheered and egged them on.

Shen Xingchen was the first to perform. After a brief face-off with Zhou Xun, he began his rap battle. As a fan favorite, Shen Xingchen had undeniable charm. His dance moves were explosive, and he had an inherent wild flair. His punk mohawk, which looked quirky on others, appeared extremely cool on him. He delivered his fast-paced rap with finesse, exhibiting both swagger and charisma, captivating his audience.

After the face-off, even Tu Ya covered her mouth in astonishment, exclaiming, "Oh my God, that was awesome!"

A triumphant grin stretched across Shen Xingchen's face, as if he might float up to the heavens.

The next round introduced a different twist.

Having been selected by Shen Xingchen in the previous round, it was now the other side's turn to pick. An Ran stepped to the center stage and said with a smile, "I'd like to challenge Xing Sui."

The atmosphere momentarily grew tense.

then

Most eyes turned to Jian Xing Sui. After all, when the Wan brothers first joined "Star Show," they came with the mindset of grabbing the 20,000 prize and leaving. An Ran, on the other hand, was a top contender, holding a solid position for debut. One was a seeded contestant, and the other, a dark horse.

With a gentle smile on his face, An Ran said, "Brother Xing Sui, will you accept?"

Jian Xing Sui sat unmoved, seemingly unsurprised by An Ran's challenge. He stood up, ever so calm, and replied, "I accept."

The ambiance instantly became charged.

Someone started clapping excitedly, chanting, "Let's start! Let's start! Let's start!"

Just before the competition began, Teacher Li interjected, "Not all our battles are based on singing and dancing. We've already had those challenges on the main stage. This round introduces a new game."

This caught everyone off guard.

Teacher Li continued with a smile, "Our game is 'Continue the Lyric.'"

The rules were straightforward: a keyword would appear on a large screen, and the contestants had to quickly sing any song lyric containing that word. The contestant who could recall the most lyrics fastest would ultimately win.

An Ran nodded in understanding, "No problem."

A tense smile almost froze on Jian Xing Sui's lips, but eventually, with a hint of sadness, he nodded, "No problem."

His only challenge was that, although he had heard many songs, many of the lyrics had been forgotten due to the long span since his past life. In this reincarnation, he mostly remembered lyrics from Fu Jin Xiao's songs.

Teacher Li's voice rang out, "Start the timer!"

The word "ocean" (海) flashed on the screen.

As An Ran pondered, Jian Xing Sui spontaneously sang, "If the sea's breeze doesn't bring everything, I won't wait in place."

Teacher Li raised his hand, "Green Team scores 1 point."

The contestants all clapped and cheered. An Ran was a bit breathless; he had hoped to gain an advantage given Jian Xing Sui's weaker dance skills. However, he hadn't expected this twist, nor had he expected Jian Xing Sui's response to be so swift!

The word "clear" (晴) appeared on the screen.

Both An Ran and Jian Xing Sui blurted out at the same time:

"The wind on a sunny day, the rain on a cloudy day."

"The umbrella you can't wait for on a sunny day, you learn to bring on a rainy one."

Teacher Li instructed the production crew to play it back in slow motion, confirming Jian Xingsui responded faster. Then, with a hint of regret, he smiled and said, "Sorry, Team Green gains another point."

This unexpected comeback was met with resounding applause from the audience.

As the game progressed, the given words grew more challenging. Yet, it seemed as if Jian Xingsui had a cheat code, always recalling lyrics without hesitation.

At the end, Teacher Li announced, "Team Green with 16 points, Team Red with 3. Team Green wins!"

Shen Xingchen leapt up in celebration, rushing over to embrace Jian Xingsui. Laughing as if he'd never won before, he said, "You're incredible! You've made me proud!"

An Ran managed only a forced smile.

Teacher Li, seemingly moved by the turn of events, asked the other judges, "What do you all think?"

Tu Ya picked up the microphone and said, "I honestly didn't expect this, Jian Xingsui. How did you manage such quick responses? How many songs have you listened to?"

Caught off guard by the question, Jian Xingsui pondered for a moment and modestly replied, "I've just listened to a lot over the years. With time, they naturally stick."

Of the 16 lyrics Jian Xingsui correctly recited, 11 were from songs by the renowned artist Fu Yingdi. Some were lesser-known tracks, which is why no one else recognized them. Only Fu Jinxiao was aware.

Tu Ya turned to Fu Jinxiao, asking, "Teacher Fu, what's your opinion?"

Fu Jinxiao sat poised, letting out a thoughtful "Hmm". With his charming eyes glancing at Jian Xingsui in an enigmatic manner, Jian Xingsui felt as if he was being seen through, and grew inexplicably nervous.

Fu Jinxiao's gaze lingered.

Perhaps in that moment, even the famed Fu Yingdi had mixed feelings, though he didn't show it.

"I think... he did very well."

Meeting Jian Xingsui's astonished gaze, Fu Yingdi said with a hint of amusement, "Xingsui has impeccable taste in music. I'm quite fond of his choices. Keep it up, young man."

To the others, this seemed like routine encouragement. Yet, for some reason, Jian Xingsui felt a peculiar warmth in his ears. It was as if Fu Jinxiao understood his preferences and, rather than judging, was nurturing them. He felt oddly bashful.

Regardless, Jian Xingsui bowed respectfully, "Thank you, Brother Fu. I'll keep working hard."

Seemingly taking delight in the playful banter, Fu Jinxiao replied solemnly, "Keep going."

While the other participants didn't grasp the nuances, they cheered on. Only An Ran looked displeased, having never felt such a bitter defeat, especially to Jian Xingsui. He realized Jian Xingsui hadn't even noticed him, being too busy discussing celebratory hotpot plans with friends.

"..."

For some reason, this made An Ran even more upset.

Three days later.

After days of silence post-broadcast, "Star Showcase" suddenly released an edited version featuring behind-the-scenes moments with the students. Upon its release, trending topics quickly surged, highlighting two names— one praised and the other criticized.

#AngelAnRan#

#DontBeTooMuchLikeJianXingsui#

Curious netizens, upon clicking into the latest episode of "Star Showcase," quickly grasped the reason. This episode featured some previously unaired surprises, such as An Ran delivering food to students who didn't receive parental visits and later sharing it in the dormitory. It also highlighted his impressive performances.

At the same time, aiming to stir controversy and create talking points, the episode showed Jian Xingsui refusing pastries and being aloof from others. Additionally, it portrayed an "unfair" competition where he, despite performing poorly, surprisingly beat An Ran in a dance.

even

To spice things up, the production team maliciously edited Fu Jinxiao's words of praise, which were originally for Jian, to sound as if they were lauding An Ran. As a result, the narrative appeared as though An Ran was treated unjustly, while Jian was consistently unreasonable and ungrateful.

The online community erupted in anger:

"Attention-seeker, can you please leave 'Star Showcase'?"

"Picking on our kind-hearted An Ran, huh?"

"I've been so annoyed seeing him from the start."

Generally, most people are content to believe what they see and take pleasure in it.

As online opinions grew louder and more controversial, the issue was also being discussed in a certain studio.

When Fu Jinxiao emerged, he noticed several staff members engaged in animated conversation.

Back in his dressing room, without asking any questions, Fu remarked nonchalantly, "The edited version of 'Star Showcase' was released today, wasn't it?"

His assistant hesitated before nodding, "Yes."

"Hand me the tablet, I want to see it."

The assistant felt apprehensive; while Fu's demeanor was publicly considered amiable, those close to him knew how terrifying he could be when angered.

The seriousness of this issue depended on how much weight Jian held in Fu Jinxiao's eyes. If Jian was insignificant to him, the production team's apology might suffice. But if Jian mattered, knowing Fu's personality, he wouldn't let it slide.

Attempting to gauge the situation, the assistant inquired, "Brother, from the talent show, did any contestant particularly catch your attention or admiration?"

"Hmm?" Taking the tablet, Fu replied lazily, "Why the sudden curiosity? They're all just kids. No significant difference."

Relieved, the assistant thought everything was under control.

However, her relief was short-lived. After opening his social media, Fu's previously nonchalant expression turned progressively darker. It reminded the assistant of a past incident involving a female celebrity.

This time…

The assistant sneaked a glance at Fu and feared the worst.