Upon hearing Fu Jinxe's response, the young lady was taken aback. As was Shen Xingsui.

The live-stream audience was similarly stunned:

"Financially-struggling Fu Jinxe."

"Hahaha, Mr. Fu, you good?"

"Fu Enterprises has left the chat."

"Mr. Fu always had a grip on this."

Shen Xingsui's thoughts diverged from the rest. Everyone had their perception of their idols, tinted with a bit of bias. For Shen Xingsui, he instinctively felt that Fu Jinxe couldn't be deceiving. Fu Jinxe had never lied to him before. Thus, his first reaction wasn't doubt but rather...

"Growing up, my family struggled. Aspiring to be an actor seemed a far-off dream."

To many, this may sound like a fairy tale. But, considering the Fu family and the pressures young Fu Jinxe faced – learning about his birth mother's death, his father's remarriage, and the weight of family expectations – many assumed he had it all. After all, he was the sole heir. What could possibly trouble him?

But did he truly have no burdens?

Everyone has hidden struggles. Even if voiced, they might seem implausible.

Yet, Shen Xingsui felt that maybe, just maybe, these years had also been hard for Fu Jinxe.

The young girl opposite them had more straightforward thoughts, saying, "That won't do. Although I understand your acting dream, without performing that drum dance, the act is incomplete, and the mission will fail."

Fu Jinxe raised an eyebrow, "If it's just about a vacancy, your younger brother dancing would be just as effective."

"My brother can't learn the drum dance," the girl replied, looking at the renowned Fu. "It may sound simple, but it's quite challenging. It's best left to professionals like you."

In a way, this young girl had managed to corner the eloquent Mr. Fu.

Shen Xingsui, assuming that Fu Jinxe was genuinely interested in the role, tentatively offered, "Teacher Fu, if you'd like to perform, I could give you my role. I can try the drumming instead."

"..."

The atmosphere was suddenly thick with tension.

Fu Jinxe looked deeply into Shen Xingsui's eyes, a gaze so profound it left the latter slightly dazed. Why was Fu staring at him this way?

then

Fu, with a mockingly cheerful tone, remarked, "Mr. Shen, casually offering one's role is a major faux pas in the performing arts. Understand?"

Conveniently, he made no mention of his earlier whims.

Realizing his disrespect towards the role, Shen Xingsui quickly apologized, "I'm sorry, Teacher. I understand now. I'll give my best performance as the fairy."

Not wanting to burden the youngster with guilt, Fu Jinxe calmly replied, "The drum dance is physically taxing. Considering your earlier activities and exertions, it's best you stick to your chosen role and dance gracefully as the fairy."

Shen Xingsui hadn't expected Fu Jinxiao to be so considerate on his behalf, immediately feeling touched. "Thank you, Teacher Fu."

The young girl beside them, seeing the topic at hand, remarked, "Speaking of which, this morning I had you carry several loads of water for our household. Are your shoulders up for dancing?"

At this, Shen Xingsui grew concerned, "Your shoulders?"

Fu Jinxiao, nonchalant about his well-being, waved dismissively, "It's no issue."

As the group conversed, soon after, the young girl's younger brother emerged from the rear. He was a vibrant young man, radiating youthful exuberance. Approaching Shen Xingsui and Fu Jinxiao with respect, he bowed slightly, "Greetings, esteemed teachers."

Fu Jinxiao responded, "Hello."

Shen Xingsui stared at the young man, taken aback.

Then it hit him. Wasn't this his former classmate, Zhang Chi? They had bumped into each other at a mall not long ago. Zhang Chi had even spoken up for him on social media. What were the odds of encountering him here? On reflection, Zhang Chi did seem to belong to an ethnic minority.

Recognizing Shen Xingsui, Zhang Chi stepped forward, greeting him with a nostalgic smile, "Xingsui, it's been a while."

Snapping back to reality, Shen Xingsui promptly shook hands, "Hello."

Observing Shen Xingsui's slightly rigid demeanor, Zhang Chi extended his arms, "Finally seeing you after so long and now we're about to collaborate. May I have a hug?"

Shen Xingsui nodded. Given the professional context, he saw no reason to decline and extended his arms for a courteous embrace.

Zhang Chi's enthusiasm was unmistakably greater. Fu Jinxiao, ever observant, noticed the dynamic and inquired with deliberate calmness, "You two know each other?"

Zhang Chi and Shen Xingsui simultaneously replied:

"We used to be close friends."

"He was once my classmate."

Their words hung in the air, revealing differing relationships, and the atmosphere turned subtly awkward.

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow. A seasoned veteran, he might have been emotionally obtuse at times, but he was adept at detecting nuances, especially in potential rivals. Zhang Chi's fleeting glances and initial focus on Shen Xingsui belied the simple 'classmate' narrative. Fu Jinxiao wasn't buying it.

With a sly grin, Fu Jinxiao drawled, "Classmates, huh?"

Zhang Chi's expression faltered slightly.

In an uncharacteristic display of initiative, the typically cool and polite Fu Jinxiao addressed Zhang Chi, "Now that we're all acquainted, let's keep formalities at bay. Later during the dance practice, I trust you'll look after our Xingsui. Please, be accommodating."

Fu Jinxiao was renowned for his impeccable manners and affability. But for some reason, this statement seemed to assert dominance, causing Zhang Chi's smile to wane. He responded mutedly, "Of course, rest assured."

The young girl from before intervened, "Alright, let's get started."

The group dispersed to practice their dance routines.

With a performance that evening, the afternoon practice was intense. After determining roles, they delved into learning. Another male dancer was enlisted to teach Fu Jinxiao. The Fei tribe's dance movements might appear simple, but they demanded significant amplitude and power. For most, mastering even the basics would take at least a couple of weeks.

This included current trainees and budding stars. Some, like Ning Ze, had already started learning, but progress was slow.

The man tasked with teaching Fu Jinxiao had expected it would take at least until evening for all the moves to be mastered. However, to his surprise, just as he was about to start from the first sequence, Fu Jinxiao interjected, “Let me dance the entire sequence for you. Tell me if there are any mistakes.”

The man from the Fei tribe was taken aback, “You've memorized it all?”

Rolling up his sleeves, Fu Jinxiao nodded, “I mostly had it down when I saw it performed in the square earlier today. After seeing you do it once, I think I can manage.”

The man, still somewhat in disbelief, responded, “Well, give it a try then.”

This was the first time the audience witnessed Fu Jinxiao dancing on camera.

As the drums began, his movements flowed seamlessly, sharp and precise, each move landing perfectly on the beat. There were challenging moments, such as the drum-throwing motion that seemed a bit unfamiliar, but he linked every subsequent motion flawlessly. Fu Jinxiao's dance exhibited a unique command, a presence that became evident when he performed, revealing a raw, commanding side seldom seen otherwise.

As the dance concluded, the man from the Fei tribe was astounded.

A thin layer of sweat on his forehead, Fu Jinxiao asked, “What do you think?”

“Did you secretly learn this before?” the man chuckled, tapping his head in amazement. “You're incredibly good.”

With a humble demeanor, Fu Jinxiao put on his coat, “When rushing between schedules, there often isn't much time for rehearsal. Over time, I've developed the habit of quickly learning and memorizing dances just by watching.”

Viewers in the live chat were deeply impressed:

“Over the years, Master Fu has indeed come a long way.”

“So handsome!”

“Forever a top-tier artist, Fu Jinxiao.”

“He's worth it!”

The Fei tribesman commented, “Your ability to learn so quickly is truly remarkable.”

Not far from them, Shen Xingsui and Zhang Chi were practicing a duet. Due to the dance, there was inevitable close physical contact. While it looked like mere practice, some movements seemed intimately close.

Fu Jinxiao's gaze returned from the distance with a smirk, “Learning quickly is beneficial. After all, my teammates and I are together. The sooner I master it, the earlier I can assist them, right?”

The Fei tribesman, ever so genuine, patted Fu Jinxiao’s shoulder, “Young man, you have a good heart and value camaraderie!”

Fu Jinxiao smiled, “You're too kind.”

Some viewers in the live chat seemed to see through it all:

“Ladies, I suspect he just wants to go and stir the pot.”

“Haha, mind your wording!”

“What do you mean by 'stir the pot'? Clearly, he's just supervising.”

“He did say he’s there to help~”

Shen Xingsui was struggling with his dance. The ethereal steps looked beautiful when the young maidens performed it, their silk garments flowing like they were heavenly beings. However, when Shen tried to replicate it, he stumbled at every step.

Zhang Chi comforted him, saying, "Don't worry, Xingsui. Take your time, we can practice it again."

Shen Xingsui nodded.

The dance move they were trying to master involved the fairy extending her hand to the groom. The groom would then pull her into a spin, both rotating separately, and then parting ways. Due to their lack of coordination, their hands would often slip, or they'd end up tumbling together.

Zhang Chi, a bit embarrassed, wondered, "Is it me who's holding us back?"

Shen Xingsui gently shook his head, brushing the dust off himself as he rose. With a chuckle, he remarked, "Let's just say we're equally tripping each other up, shall we?"

Zhang Chi was amused by this.

After hopping a few steps on the spot, Shen added, "We've improved quite a bit. Let's try it a few more times. Otherwise, tonight's performance will look more like a face-plant than a fairy's descent."

As Zhang Chi gazed at Shen Xingsui's humorous grin and his determination, even after repeated falls, he found himself captivated. He felt a longing to make amends.

Distracted, Shen asked, "Why the daze?"

Coming to, Zhang Chi slowly remarked, "It's just that... you seem to be like your old self again."

"You used to be so cheerful and optimistic."

"Then you changed."

"After An Ran transferred to our school, you became more reclusive, stopped smiling. It was as if you became someone entirely different, and it was disconcerting. Yet, recently, it feels like you're reverting back to your old self, radiating positivity."

And seeing Shen Xingsui this way rekindled something within Zhang Chi.

Baffled, Shen wiped his sweat, "What do you mean?"

Zhang Chi wanted to explain further, but noticing the cameramen around, he simply laughed it off, "I just meant you seem great now."

Though puzzled, Shen, focused on their upcoming performance, rolled up his sleeves, "Then let's keep practicing."

Zhang Chi smiled, "Sure!"

Their moves might have been basic, but with Zhang Chi's lack of foundational skills, they had their fair share of bumps. Just when they were feeling stuck, a voice offered advice, "Zhang Chi, don't concentrate your weight solely on your legs. Look upward."

Both turned to see the source of the guidance.

Fu Jinxiao approached, and expertly adjusted Zhang Chi's posture, "Try it now."

Zhang Chi, following the new instructions and focusing more on his upper body, found the dance suddenly more fluid.

Gratefully, he said, "Thank you, Brother Fu. How did you know?"

Shen Xingsui interjected with a smile, "Master Fu is an experienced senior. He even taught me my dance routine for the 'Starlight' talent show. I was quite clumsy back then. Fu was strict but under his guidance, my performance greatly improved..."

Zhang Chi listened, entertained by Shen Xingsui's animated recounting.

At times, he can be quite reserved and introverted, but when discussing his passions, he lights up with enthusiasm, much like now.

Zhang Chi then glanced over at Fu Jinxiao nearby. The tall and handsome man exuded an effortless grace, yet his aura was overwhelmingly strong. Especially when pinpointing one's flaws, his insights were sharp and poised.

Zhang Chi murmured, "Indeed, the formidable Master Fu..."

He felt a touch of defeat.

Even though he harbored affections for Shen Xingsui, in front of a mature and powerful man like Fu Jinxiao, he felt utterly outmatched, with no hope of victory.

Shen Xingsui inquired, "Shall we try again?"

Coming back to his senses, Zhang Chi gently nodded, "Sure."

Although he had grown more familiar with the dance steps, having an extra pair of eyes on him made Zhang Chi inexplicably nervous. Already shaky, the added pressure made him more prone to mistakes. During a turn, he lost his balance and twisted his ankle, falling to the ground.

Shen Xingsui, slightly startled, hurriedly went to assist, "Are you alright?"

With a pained expression, Zhang Chi quickly responded, "I'm fine, just need a moment to rest."

A young lady from a distance approached, "Perhaps a short break is in order?"

The group took the opportunity to rest.

With Zhang Chi having twisted his ankle, the production team quickly provided emergency treatments like medicated oil. As his partner, Shen Xingsui took on the task of applying it, carefully massaging the oil over Zhang Chi's red and swollen injury.

The two were suddenly very close.

Zhang Chi, touched by the gesture, looked up and whispered, "Xingsui, thank you..."

To Shen Xingsui, it was merely a simple act of kindness. He responded calmly, "It's alright. If you're uncomfortable, speak up. Dancing is important, but health is paramount."

His underlying message was if you feel you can't continue, find another dance partner promptly.

However, Zhang Chi misconstrued the sentiment, feeling deeply cared for by Shen Xingsui.

Gazing into Shen Xingsui's eyes, Zhang Chi murmured, "Xingsui..."

From a distance, Zhang Chi's sister brought over their tribe's special healing ointment. Fu Jinxiao, who was nearby, received it and passed it on, "This remedy from their tribe works wonders. Let him try it."

Fu Jinxiao gave a subtle nod.

As he walked over leisurely, what greeted his eyes was a scene that rubbed him the wrong way. While Shen Xingsui was diligently attending to Zhang Chi, the latter's gaze was undeniably filled with affection. The proximity between the two, though innocent, somehow irritated Fu Jinxiao. When he's displeased, it's always a bad omen for someone.

Fu Jinxiao approached slowly and handed the ointment to Shen Xingsui, "His sister sent this. Let him use it."

Shen Xingsui hastily replied, "Alright."

In the fleeting moment when their arms touched, Fu Jinxiao stiffened slightly. He then furrowed his brows momentarily but chose to remain silent, handing over the ointment and ending the interaction.

However, Shen Xingsui felt something was amiss.

After a moment's hesitation on the ground, he quickly stood up, asking, “Mr. Fu, is there something wrong with your shoulder?”

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow in surprise.

“I heard from my sister that you carried several loads of water this morning,” Shen Xingsui noted. Even though Fu Jinxiao stood tall with his usual composed demeanor, the subtle signs of fatigue couldn't be completely hidden. It reminded Shen Xingsui of how busy Fu had been the past few days, constantly on the move.

After doing so much heavy lifting this morning and probably not having much rest, how could he not be exhausted?

Plus, there was the drum dance in the evening...

He was well aware that the drum dance was the most strenuous of all, yet Fu Jinxiao chose the easiest one for himself, bearing all the brunt.

A pang of sympathy welled up inside Shen Xingsui. Taking a deep breath, he offered, “If you’re not feeling well, would you like me to massage your shoulders? It might help a bit.”

He looked intently at Fu Jinxiao, waiting for a response.

Those familiar with Fu Jinxiao, including his fans, knew he never liked to trouble others.

Once, during a TV show recording, he sustained a wrist injury but didn’t interrupt the filming, seeking medical attention only after wrapping up. Typically, he maintained a certain distance from the younger generation, hence the lack of any scandalous rumors.

But this time...

Fu Jinxiao's brows quirked in interest. His eyes subtly darted towards Zhang Chi seated a short distance away. With a slight narrowing of his beautiful eyes, he finally nodded, “Alright.”

Shen Xingsui was taken aback.

A short distance away, Zhang Chi, who expected a refusal, was equally surprised.

With his deep, dark eyes, yet maintaining a friendly face, Fu Jinxiao exuded seniority. "But don’t you need to tend to Zhang Chi? His injury seems severe, perhaps..."

Shen Xingsui turned to look at Zhang Chi.

Zhang Chi felt the pressure, hastily saying, “It's okay, I can manage on my own, or my sister can help.”

Only then did Shen Xingsui reply to Fu Jinxiao, “In that case, let me assist you.”

“Very well.”

Fu Jinxiao took a seat on a nearby chair, moving with grace. As his gaze briefly met Zhang Chi’s, a subtle smirk formed on his lips, “Thank you for your help.”