Jian Xingsui seemed a bit puzzled.

But with Fu Jinxiao acting so mysteriously, he didn't feel right asking too many questions. Lost in thoughts about his contract termination, he snapped back to reality only when the car suddenly braked due to an illegal lane change from an oncoming vehicle.

Fu Jinxiao glanced at him, "What were you thinking about?"

Jian Xingsui turned and saw Fu, the famous actor, looking at him. He replied, "I was thinking about... the agency issues."

"Once you've terminated the contract, it's in the past," Fu Jinxiao, who had been reading a script, now looked up and said, "No matter how the past was, if you keep dwelling on it and don't focus on the future, you won't be able to enjoy the present. Understand?"

Realizing what he meant, Jian Xingsui quickly added, "I know. I was just wondering, since I've terminated my contract, what should I do next?"

Fu Jinxiao asked with genuine curiosity, "Thinking of leaving the entertainment industry?"

Jian Xingsui found it hard to articulate. He loved music and wanted to pursue it. But realizing that there might not be a place for him in the industry, he had considered giving up. Now, things seemed to be changing, like a butterfly effect. It felt like he could still pursue music and remain in the industry.

Looking up at Fu Jinxiao, Jian Xingsui felt a deep-seated trust in him, even if their acquaintance was not that long.

"Honestly, I don't want to leave," Jian Xingsui admitted. "I'm just afraid I won't do well."

A smile played on Fu Jinxiao's lips, "No one is born perfect. A butterfly doesn't know it can fly until it breaks out of its cocoon. The tortoise didn't know it could beat the hare until they raced. Similarly, I was a nobody when I entered the entertainment world."

Jian Xingsui was momentarily lost in his words.

His dark eyes were fixed on Fu Jinxiao, his fair complexion glowing softly, and his attentive gaze gave him an endearing look.

Before Jian Xingsui could gather his thoughts, Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, his voice deep, "What I mean is, don't be afraid of challenges. Face them. But why are you staring at me like that?"

The distance between them in the car was quite short.

Fu Jinxiao, reclining with a relaxed posture, his eyes playful, drawled, "Do you intend to face the challenge and conquer me?"

!!!

Startled, Jian Xingsui blurted out, "No, no! I wouldn't dare!"

Fu Jinxiao clicked his tongue in mock disappointment, "Being too timid isn't always good. That's something you need to change."

Jian Xingsui's ears turned crimson. Not daring to challenge his senior, he nodded hesitantly, "I'll... try my best."

Only then did Fu Jinxiao give a nonchalant nod, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips.

The driver, who had witnessed the entire scene: "..."

"Mr. Fu, can you act like a grown-up for once?"

"I never realized you had a thing for teasing the younger generation!"

Having been Fu JinXiao's driver for many years, he understood the man's character well. Given the numerous temptations in the entertainment circle, and with Fu JinXiao's renown, power, and the significant influence of the Fu family, many have sought his attention. Yet, Fu JinXiao always maintained a clear boundary, staying aloof and distant.

But now...

The driver felt as if he'd stumbled upon a scene of a wolf preying on an innocent rabbit. Best to look away.

Half an hour later, the car pulled up to the Shen family's mansion.

Upon entering, the pleasant aroma of a lavish meal filled the air. Two women were seated on the living room sofa, chatting casually. Xu EnZhen possessed a gentle beauty, while the lady opposite her, a blonde, was the epitome of fashionable and icy elegance, adorned with an array of exquisite jewelry.

As Jian XingSui walked in, he respectfully greeted, "Mother."

Upon seeing her son, Xu EnZhen immediately stood up, "Ah, XingSui, you're back. Oh, JinXiao is with you?"

Fu JinXiao greeted courteously, "Hello, Aunt Xu. I hope we're not intruding."

Xu EnZhen hastened to reply, "Not at all. But why did you bring a gift?"

With a polite smile, Fu JinXiao responded, "Just a small token."

When Xu EnZhen opened it and found the silk thread she'd been seeking, her joy was evident. "How did you know I wanted this?"

He modestly said, "I overheard you mention it once and had a friend who could procure it."

Xu EnZhen's heart swelled with happiness.

It wasn't surprising that the industry held Fu JinXiao in such high regard. While the Shen family lacked nothing, Fu JinXiao's gift was both rare and thoughtful.

This was one of the reasons why Xu EnZhen favored him as a potential son-in-law. If her son could find such an accomplished partner, what more could a mother ask for?

Xu EnZhen, holding Jian XingSui's hand, said, "JinXiao, thank you. You've been so helpful with XingSui today."

Fu JinXiao responded, "It was the least I could do. XingSui is a good kid, and we've had interactions before. You're too kind, Aunt Xu."

Her heart warmed even more, "That's wonderful."

Jian XingSui felt that his mother's "wonderful" held a deeper meaning.

As they approached the sofa, the fashionable lady stood up. Her gaze landed on Jian XingSui, questioning, "You are...?"

Somewhat nervous, Jian XingSui bowed, "Hello, Aunt. I'm Jian XingSui."

Facing this enigmatic and somewhat intimidating lady, he felt uneasy. Partly because this woman was Fu JinXiao's mother.

After a moment's silence, the woman suddenly approached with warmth, grasping Jian Xingsui's hand, saying, "Hello, hello! I'm Lina, a dear friend of your mother's. You can call me mom..."

Fu Jinxiao cleared his throat softly.

Lina then corrected herself with a smile, "Just call me Auntie Lily!"

At first, Jian Xingsui was taken aback, but then thought he might have misheard. He obediently replied in a clear voice, "Auntie Lily."

Lina gazed at the well-mannered and understanding child before her, her heart instantly melted.

She had always yearned for a tender, obedient, and adorable child. However, life didn't go as planned, and she gave birth to Fu Jinxiao. When he was a child, she would play with him and, seeing his emotionless face, she felt like a fool. The idea of having a gentle and sweet child seemed like a distant dream.

"Xingsui," Lina said, holding his hand, "I've heard about what you went through. You've suffered a lot in the past, but rest assured, such things will never happen again. The men in our family, if nothing else, truly cherish their loved ones. You can trust in that."

Jian Xingsui: "Huh?"

Something felt off.

Xu Enzhen chimed in from the side, "Rest assured, you definitely can."

Jian Xingsui: ?

A small head filled with big confusion.

Fu Jinxiao, spotting his flustered demeanor, suppressed a chuckle, contentedly watching the unfolding scene from a distance.

As Lina rambled on about various topics, Jian Xingsui began to feel overwhelmed. He unconsciously cast a pleading look towards Fu Jinxiao, who, noticing the desperate glance, finally intervened, addressing Xu Enzhen, "Auntie, I smell chicken soup. Did you cook today?"

Xu Enzhen quickly responded, "Oh yes, I almost forgot! Now that everyone's here, let's eat."

Jian Xingsui inquired, "Where are my brother and father?"

"They're working late, as usual," Xu Enzhen dismissed with a wave, "No need to wait for them."

Jian Xingsui nodded in understanding.

Only then did Lina stop talking, allowing Jian Xingsui to move towards the dining table. Upon reaching it, he naturally began to help Xu Enzhen with the dishes and utensils, bustling back and forth efficiently.

The Shen family was different from other elite families. Xu Enzhen disliked having too many outsiders roaming their home, hence only Mrs. Wu stayed to help. Most chores were handled personally by family members. Everyone enjoyed and was accustomed to this way of life, believing that true happiness came from taking care of one's own family.

Lina expressed her gratitude, "Thank you, Xingsui. You're so diligent."

Jian Xingsui, always respectful and meticulous, replied softly, "It's my pleasure. You must be thirsty from talking; would you like another bowl of soup?"

Touched by the boy's attentiveness and respect, Lina said, "That'd be lovely, thank you."

Jian Xingsui was genuinely pleased to help. In the past, at the Jian residence, no matter what he did, he felt underappreciated and inferior. But here, he felt valued, and his face broke into a smile, "It's no trouble at all. You're too kind."

Just as Jian Xingsui was about to serve the soup, Fu Jinxiao stopped him with a gentle yet firm grip, saying, "Sit down. I'll handle it. Don't move."

A surprised Jian Xingsui looked up at him.

Fu Jinxiao stood up, went to the kitchen, and ladled two bowls of soup: one for his mother and one for Jian Xingsui.

Lina noticed the carefully selected meat added to Jian Xingsui's bowl, nodding in approval. She thought, 'He knows how to pamper. So good to see! I used to worry that my son would be forever alone. But now he has this adorable partner. I might have to lend a hand to ensure things work out.'

Clearing her throat gently, Lina advised, "Son, you should also drink more. Didn't you hurt your leg working non-stop the other day? With the break you have now, make sure to recover properly."

Jian Xingsui paused in surprise, looking concernedly at Fu Jinxiao, "You were injured?"

Fu Jinxiao shot his mother an icy glance, aware of her antics.

"It's nothing major," he reassured Jian Xingsui calmly, "just an old injury acting up. A bit of rest, and I'll be fine."

Jian Xingsui was aware of this.

Years ago, during a film shoot, an oversight by the crew caused Fu Jinxiao to fall from a horse. The injury was severe, leaving a lingering weakness that would flare up with over-exertion or rough contact.

Compassion clouded Jian Xingsui's face, mixed with a touch of guilt, "Maybe you should see a doctor. If it's causing pain and you didn't rest after arriving home, even taking the trouble to accompany me to the company... I'm truly..."

Interrupting, Fu Jinxiao said, "I chose to be there with you. Why would you feel responsible?"

Jian Xingsui was taken aback.

A dominating glint in his eyes, Fu Jinxiao looked at him, amusement evident, "I have a personal doctor, you know. Checked with him recently, and it's all fine. Relax, my health is good. No worries needed. If you truly wish to express gratitude, contact Mei Can soon to sign that contract."

"…?" Jian Xingsui inquired, "Which contract?"

"The one with Fenghua Entertainment," Fu Jinxiao replied, pausing for a sip of soup before continuing, "Aren't you currently without an agency?"

It never occurred to Jian Xingsui that he could sign with the illustrious Fenghua Entertainment!

Though naive in many respects, he knew Fenghua Entertainment was a leading agency in the industry. Signing artists of notable talent and promise.

Feeling as if he'd been hit with a pleasant surprise, Jian Xingsui asked excitedly, "Really? The Fenghua Entertainment you're with? Can truly join?"

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, "Why wouldn't you?"

The two sat closely, Fu Jinxiao turned, his voice deep and tantalizing, "Or do you not want to be in the same company as me?"

Jian Xingsui quickly defended, "That's not it!"

But upon saying that, he felt slightly bashful.

Fu Jinxiao extended a hand, his handsome features serious yet inviting, "Well then, I'm pleased to welcome you to Fenghua on behalf of the company."

As Jian Xingsui stared at the hand extended to him, illuminated by the warm glow of the dining room light, he felt like he was in a dream. He could actually be in the same company as his idol. Their story hadn't ended; Fu Jinxiao was extending a new beginning.

Grasping Fu Jinxiao's hand firmly, the warmth searing into his heart, Jian Xingsui humbly said, "Thank you for this opportunity. I promise to give it my all. I look forward to learning from you."

Fu Jinxiao smiled, "The pleasure is mine."

Fu Jinxiao's gaze settled on the younger man, a smile playing on his lips, "Indeed, I look forward to it as well."

Jian Xingsui was still lost in his joy.

Fu Jinxiao whispered, "Let's eat."

Jian Xingsui nodded, "Alright."

After observing for a while, Lina deduced that Xingsui had feelings for her son. She knew her son well; he wouldn't converse much with those he disliked and could be roundabout with his criticisms. But when it came to those he was fond of, his true playful nature would show, always teasing and engaging them in conversation.

Things seem to be looking up; it's about time their relationship had some hope.

Lina turned to Xu Enzhen and asked, "Did you get the paternity test results? Has Xingsui's residence been transferred?"

As Xu Enzhen ate, she nodded and said, "We got it. We received it when it was passed from the police to the court. The residence transfer was only processed a few days ago. It will take some time. When it's done, his name will be changed on it."

Lina nodded and, with a smile, said to Jian Xingsui, "You'll have the surname 'Shen' from now on. Will it take some getting used to?"

Jian Xingsui looked at Xu Enzhen and then at himself. Pausing his meal, he thought for a moment and replied, "Perhaps a little, but it's fine. I quite like the surname 'Shen', and... I really like it here."

Hearing this, a pleased and joyful smile appeared on Xu Enzhen's face.

Lina added, "That's good to hear. It's best to finish these matters sooner. With a new residence and surname, you'll be starting a fresh life. Your future will be brand new. Come here, I have something for you."

Curious, Jian Xingsui moved closer to Lina.

Lina removed a jade pendant, woven with a string, from her wrist. The jade gleamed with clarity and seemed invaluable. She wanted to put it on Jian Xingsui, who hesitated, "Auntie..."

Lina, taking his hand, said, "This was given to me by my mother when I got married. It's a family heirloom. This pendant also symbolizes safety. I have nothing better to offer you now; I just hope you'll always be safe and sound."

Jian Xingsui looked at the pendant on his hand, deeply moved by Lina's gesture. His voice quivering, he replied, "It's an heirloom. Auntie, it's too precious. I can't accept it."

"If you don't accept it, then who will?" Lina patted his hand, "Considering my relationship with your mother, why are you being formal with me?"

Lina winked at her son in the background, hinting that this was something usually passed down to a daughter-in-law.

Catching her cue, Fu Jinxiao looked at her with a hint of resignation. He then turned to Jian Xingsui and softly said, "Since my mother has offered it, accept it without feeling burdened. She has been wanting to give away this bracelet for years, hoping my father would get her a new one."

Exposing his mother's intentions was done ruthlessly.

Lina glared at him, "Had you not disappeared, would I have waited this long?"

Fu Jinxiao ignored her, urging Jian Xingsui to eat.

Xu Enzhen chimed in with a smile, "Xingsui, wear it well. This is a token of Lina's affection. I've heard about this pendant. It's said to be very powerful and will undoubtedly protect you."

Jian Xingsui nodded earnestly, "Don't worry."

From across the table, Shen Xingchen, who was focused on his meal, complained, "Mom, why don't I have any heirloom bracelets?"

Xu Enzhen shot him a glance, "It's not your time yet. And considering how easy your life has been, what do you need with a bracelet? Would you prefer a 'heirloom' slap?"

Shen Xingchen rolled his eyes in exasperation, "Fine, you might as well keep it then."

Jian Xingsui smiled as he watched them bicker. Touching the jade pendant in his hand, he felt an inexplicable surge of hope for the future. Lately, he had been experiencing moments of such sheer beauty that they felt almost unreal. Now, all he wished for was a smooth future where everyone remained safe and sound.

...

the next day

At the grand building of Fenghua Entertainment, after signing his contract, Wang Meican shook hands with Jian Xingsui. "Xingsui, I'm delighted that you've officially joined us. From now on, I'll be your manager."

Jian Xingsui responded respectfully, "Thank you, Ms. Wang. To be honest, I never thought you'd take me in. I hope I won't be too much of a bother."

Wang Meican smiled, "It's not about being a bother. On one hand, there's your family, but on the other, I see potential in you. I haven't mentored a newbie in a while. With everything settled with Jinxiao, I have some time to guide fresh talents like you."

Grateful, Jian Xingsui said, "Rest assured, Ms. Wang. I may not have many strengths, but I promise to work hard and not let you down."

Wang Meican has always appreciated obedient individuals, not someone like Fu Jinxiao, who's always a handful. So she quickly reassured Jian, "It's alright. Now that you've signed with me, there's something I need to tell you. If you ever decide to date, you have to inform me in advance."

Taken aback, Jian Xingsui nodded shyly, "Of course, I will."

This reassured Wang Meican. Knowing Fu Jinxiao wouldn't have told her made her appreciate Jian's maturity even more. She felt smart for keeping both under her wing, ensuring she's always in the loop.

Wang Meican internally complimented herself before discussing business. "Let's talk about work. I'd like you to pursue music, but there's a variety show invitation we haven't finalized yet. It depends on public opinion and your popularity."

Puzzled, Jian Xingsui asked, "Which one?"

"Haven't you heard?" Wang Meican realized and explained, "It's the 'Starlight' show. After their talent search, they're launching a significant reality show called 'Dazzling Starlight'. The team behind it is excellent. Jinxiao, Tuya, and other mentors have signed up, as have the boy band members from Starlight."

Jian Xingsui had heard of this. The show's lineup was indeed sensational.

Wang Meican adjusted her glasses, "Moreover, this reality show isn't directed by the original director of Starlight but by the famous Su Ji'an. He has directed some of the hottest reality shows in the past couple of years. 'Dazzling Starlight' could be a great opportunity for you."

Hesitating, Jian Xingsui queried, "But haven't the guests been confirmed?"

Wang Meican showed him her phone, "Luck is on your side. A few days ago, after watching some 'Starlight' episodes, Director Su decided to add one more spot."

Jian Xingsui asked, "For whom?"

"It's up to the audience." Wang Meican opened a Weibo poll, "This slot is essentially for 'The Most Underrated Talent'. Out of the 102 contestants, the audience votes for their favorite. The top contestant gets to participate in 'Dazzling Starlight'."

This was the first time Jian Xingsui had heard about this, and he commented, "Director Su really knows his audience."

Nodding, Wang Meican continued, "He also gave the 108 contestants a chance to vote, except they can't vote for themselves. They'll collectively choose one person they believe truly deserves the opportunity."

Jian Xingsui berated himself for missing out on this news amid all the contract termination chaos.

Observing his naive expression, Wang Meican smirked, "Even though voting ends in two days, many votes, both from the public and contestants, have been revealed. Want to see?"

Jian Xingsui's heart raced at the proposition.

He recognized this as an opportunity to reunite with Shen Xingchen, Ning Ze, and even collaborate with mentors Fu Jinxiao and Tuya. While it also meant confronting An Ran again, the allure of the former overshadowed any reservations he might have had.

Wang Meican set up the webpage, handing him the device, "See where you stand on the list."