The kiss eventually ended, yet the rapid beating of Shen Xingsui's heart showed no signs of stopping.

Blinking repeatedly, he wondered if he was hallucinating, hearing, on this chilly spring night, his long-time idol confess his love.

Fu Jinxiao's slightly rough fingertips gently brushed against Shen Xingsui's face, teasing, "Give me some reaction, Professor Shen. You're making me look bad."

Shen Xingsui slowly came back to his senses, his fair cheeks suddenly painted with a flush of crimson.

A belated blush.

For they had just shared a kiss.

Fu Jinxiao, taken aback by his innocent reaction, smiled fondly with a hint of amusement, "Such thin skin you have."

In a way, it wasn't so much that Shen Xingsui was easily embarrassed, but perhaps someone else was too brazen. However, no one dared to voice this out loud.

Yet Fu Jinxiao added, “Seems I'll have to work on making Teacher Shen more accustomed.”

Accustomed... to what?

Shen Xingsui blinked, his eyes misty, not fully grasping the implication.

As Fu Jinxiao gazed at him, he saw a young man with fair, rosy skin. His makeup not entirely removed revealed a natural allure that reminded him of the ethereal beauty on stage — a beauty that was both awe-inspiring and sacrosanct. Innocence mixed with desire. Their eyes met, sparking a forbidden temptation.

A mischievous itch arose in Fu Jinxiao's heart. He wanted to tease him more.

Sensing his intent, Shen Xingsui pushed him gently, whispering, “Stop...”

The amusement in Fu Jinxiao's eyes faded, replaced by a dark intensity. With a husky voice, he asked, "Why not?"

"If my lips are swollen tomorrow, how am I to explain?" Shen Xingsui gave him a look, reminding him of their professionalism, "We have a show to record tomorrow. What if others notice?"

His concerns were well-rounded.

Yet, Fu Jinxiao, ever the indomitable star, scoffed, “Let them notice.”

"..."

How could someone be so wilful?

As Shen Xingsui was mentally voicing his complaints, the rumbling of his empty stomach shattered the silence. In the quiet courtyard, the sound seemed particularly pronounced.

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, “Hungry, are you?”

Shen Xingsui nodded, slightly embarrassed.

"Didn’t think to cook an extra serving for yourself when you made the noodles?" Fu Jinxiao remarked, heading towards the kitchen.

Shen Xingsui replied honestly, “I was preoccupied and forgot.”

When one's mind is on someone else, one tends to forget oneself. Only when the hustle ends and one relaxes does the hunger set in.

In the kitchen, Fu Jinxiao picked up the leftover dough. Luckily, it was already kneaded. Swiftly boiling water in a pot, he grabbed a knife and skillfully began to shave the dough, saying, "We're short on time. Instead of rolling out the noodles, I'll make you knife-shaved ones."

Shen Xingsui, witnessing the neatly shaved noodles entering the pot, was awestruck, “How come you know how to do this, Teacher Fu?”

How many more surprises did this man hold that he wasn't aware of?

"I consulted with a noodle chef when filming a movie in the past," Fu Jinxiao mentioned at ease, "I can only present the aesthetics, but the taste is just so-so. It should suffice to satisfy hunger though."

Though he downplayed his skills, the steaming hand-shaved noodles Fu Jinxiao presented, especially with his proficient sauce and hot oil drizzling technique, were leagues apart from the bland bowl Shen Xingsui had with only an egg added.

Taking a seat and tasting a mouthful, Shen Xingsui couldn't help but exclaim, "This is delicious."

"Take your time. If you like it, I'll make it for you again," Fu Jinxiao promised.

Halfway through his bowl, Shen Xingsui felt full. He curiously asked, "You can cook so many dishes. Do you enjoy culinary arts?"

With a smirk, Fu Jinxiao responded, "Not particularly."

Impressed, Shen Xingsui marveled internally at how someone could master a craft not inherently their hobby.

"In fact, I seldom cook unless it's work-related," Fu Jinxiao, reclining leisurely in a nearby rocking chair with a red cord in hand, mused, "I've never cooked for anyone before."

Upon hearing this, Shen Xingsui stared at his bowl, deep in thought.

Fu Jinxiao glanced at him, his gaze intent, and teased, "In my life, I've never served anyone like this."

Blushing, Shen Xingsui's heart raced. How was it that, regardless of time or context, this man always managed to set his heart aflutter?

"I...," Shen Xingsui tried to muster a response, "I'll refine my culinary skills too, striving to cook even better in the future."

"No need," Fu Jinxiao interrupted.

Shen Xingsui's heart sank, but before he could dwell on it further—

Fu Jinxiao, now serious, softly said, "I've been very happy today."

"Thank you, Sui Sui," Fu Jinxiao's handsome face, deepened by the night's shadows, gazed unwaveringly at Shen Xingsui. A hint of a smile in his eyes, he whispered, "Today, I've received the best gift."

...

The following day.

Today marked the final day of the program's recording.

To wrap up, the crew decided to organize a collective activity for everyone.

The director, standing at the forefront, announced, "Firstly, thank you all for participating in the second season's recording. For our last day, we have one final challenge for everyone."

The crowd waited in anticipation.

"Everyone must recreate at least one dish they tasted on the first day at the village entrance," the director announced over a megaphone, "All the dishes will be laid out on a single table, and tasted by our village residents. The guest whose dish is deemed the most authentic will receive a luxurious grand prize from our crew."

Shen Xingchen naively raised his hand, "What's the grand prize, Director? Is it five million?"

The corner of the director's mouth twitched, "Our budget is limited..."

"Don't tell me it's a seven-day trip to Hawaii?" An Ran joked from the side, "A vacation for us?"

The director assured, "Don't worry, you'll all be satisfied with the prize."

Since the director has made the call, the guests naturally had no choice but to cooperate.

However, everyone ate different dishes that day, so they had to separately procure their ingredients. And these ingredients weren't free; to obtain them, they'd have to exchange points or provide labor to the villagers.

One fish costs 20 points.

The guests had always received points for completing tasks before, not knowing their purpose. Now, as they began to utilize them, the value of these points became clear.

Teacher Tuya announced, "I only have 30 points."

The others chimed in:

"I have just 25 points."

"I've got 19 points."

"Don't even ask, I'm at -20 points."

After averaging their scores, both Shen Xingchen and Shen Xingsui ended up with -10 points each.

After everyone had declared their scores, all eyes turned to Fu Jinxiao, who had remained mostly silent. Under their gaze, the award-winning actor leisurely said, "135 points."

Shocked expressions followed.

Everyone was astounded!

Why did Fu Jinxiao have such a high score? Wasn't this defying logic?

Seemingly aware of their bewilderment, Fu Jinxiao explained, "During our time in the dense forest, there were points rewarded for finding the mirror and the divine water, as well as for obtaining the key, and other minor tasks."

Most people hadn't completed these tasks, but Fu Jinxiao had.

This man was truly exceptional.

Always the quick thinker, Teacher Tuya asked, "Could we possibly borrow some points?"

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, "What's the repayment?"

Hesitatingly, Tuya responded, "Considering our many years of friendship..."

Fu Jinxiao smirked, then turned and walked away.

Tuya hurriedly followed, "Hey, hey, hey! Why the rush? I hadn't finished speaking! About that album you mentioned last time..."

The live audience watching this unfold burst into laughter:

"Hahaha, classic Fu. So real."

"Friendship? Don't even start."

"No one can outsmart the old fox."

"Teacher Tuya has truly broadened his horizons. Hahaha!"

Fu Jinxiao lent Tuya 20 points, sufficient for Teacher Tuya to secure several side dishes without the hassle of procuring ingredients himself.

Seeing that it was possible to borrow, other guests were eager to try.

After successfully treating himself to a few lavish meals post-show, Teacher Li managed to exchange them for 20 points. Witnessing his success, others gathered around:

"Master Fu, I'd like to make a trade."

"I have a limited-edition album here."

"I have..."

Many of the items were trivial and unnecessary to Fu Jinxiao. He generously distributed his points out of compassion, always looking out for the younger generation. Although he didn't need many of their offerings, he still shared.

Shen Xingchen stepped forward, "No need for more words, I've stolen a collectible from my brother to trade for points."

He has always been particularly dutiful in such matters.

Fu Jinxiao responded, "I'll give you 10 points."

Shen Xingchen felt it was fair; at least his score wasn't -10 anymore. Regardless, it sounded better. Still, considerately, he inquired for his younger brother, "What about Xingsui? What can he offer?"

Shen Xingsui had remained passive the whole time.

Fu Jinxiao glanced at Shen Xingsui, asking, "How many do you want?"

Normally, those who approached needed to negotiate, offering something in return and then depending on Fu Jinxiao's mood for a loan. Yet, when it came to Shen Xingsui, without uttering a word or making an offer, Fu Jinxiao straightforwardly inquired about his desired amount.

Shen Xingsui had been mentally tallying the points Fu Jinxiao was dispensing. Observing almost a hundred points being distributed, he felt concerned and offered, "It's alright, I don’t need too many..."

Fu Jinxiao interjected, "I'm giving you 40."

Shen Xingsui was momentarily stunned, unable to reply. Shen Xingchen exclaimed, "What did Xingsui offer to get that much? Can I borrow as much?"

Fu Jinxiao shot him a cool glance, remaining silently amused.

Shen Xingchen: "..."

Silence.

The live audience burst into laughter:

"The day Shen Xingchen went introspective."

"How can you compare to Fu’s precious one?"

"Hahaha, Xingsui doesn't need to offer anything!"

"Master Fu really goes above and beyond for his students, doesn't he?"

"I wish I were Master Fu's student, to be pampered like that. Woe is me."

"Get real. Not everyone is Shen Xingsui..."

After receiving their points, the guests began to scatter to find ingredients. Since everyone had different culinary preferences, the locations to exchange for ingredients varied. Shen Xingsui went with Xu Qinkai. Despite not having much interaction before, this seemed like a good time to strike up a conversation.

Xu Qinkai said, "Thanks for the other day."

Shen Xingsui hesitated, "What happened?"

"The amulet," Xu Qinkai grinned, guessing he might have forgotten. "You gave me the amulet then. Even though Teacher Tuya and I didn’t win."

Shen Xingsui remembered, replying, "No big deal. You're welcome."

Xu Qinkai had always known Shen Xingsui to be upright and honorable. During their training camp days, he had heard of Shen Xingsui's reputation, although they weren't familiar then. Others spoke ill of him, but Xu Qinkai always held a favorable impression of him. His early morning sightings of Shen Xingsui in the training room were the reason.

He worked extremely hard.

He was talented in both songwriting and composing.

Xu Qinkai has always respected hardworking individuals. On the night of the debut selection, when he learned that Shen Xingsui didn't make the cut, he felt genuine pity rather than disdain.

Later, when they both joined this variety show, their paths rarely crossed. But Xu Qinkai sensed Shen Xingsui was a man of integrity, contrasting the circulating rumors.

"We haven't teamed up much before," Shen Xingsui mentioned casually. "You and Feng Fan seem close. You two always end up together."

Xu Qinkai replied, "You seem quite close with Master Fu yourself."

Shen Xingsui tensed up, casting an incredulous glance at Xu Qinkai, his mind racing, analyzing the underlying meaning of that statement.

Xu Qinkai chuckled, "Relax. It's just idle chatter. I won't spread rumors."

Only then did Shen Xingsui notice that, at some point, Xu Qinkai had turned off his microphone.

Realizing their conversation wasn't being broadcasted, Shen Xingsui also switched off his mic.

Xu Qinkai began, "You've probably noticed, Feng Fan and I..."

Shen Xingsui had suspicions but never dared voice them, "You two are...?"

"Yes," Xu Qinkai nodded, the sunny-looking young man smiling, "It's no secret. Most of our close friends in the industry know."

Everything clicked for Shen Xingsui.

He had always found the relationship between these two like brothers extraordinarily close, almost surpassingly so. But if it was this kind of relationship, it made sense.

Xu Qinkai looked at him, asking, "And you and Master Fu, right?"

Shen Xingsui was choked up. Had this question been asked yesterday, he would have immediately denied it. But today, he found it hard to shake his head.

He felt guilty.

Yet, there was an underlying sense of joy.

He had never discussed his love with anyone, never even identified it as such. But talking about it among friends, as if discussing their significant others, felt novel and... tempting.

Shen Xingsui cautiously inquired, "Why do you ask? Fu Laoshi is close to many people."

"It's just a feeling," Xu Qinke replied. "I love Feng Fan, so I notice the way he looks at people. The way Fu Laoshi looks at you, the things he does for you—it's different. Many things can be masked, but the subtle hints of affection are impossible to hide, even for an award-winning actor."

Shen Xingsui was taken aback, not expecting such an answer.

His previously calm heart began to flutter. Thinking of Fu Jinxiao, his gaze flickered, and a smile unconsciously tugged at his lips.

Xu Qinke, noticing his reaction, said, "I didn't mean to offend by mentioning this."

"I've heard Fu Laoshi say that if he were in a relationship, he wouldn't keep it secret. Since you two haven't announced anything, I assumed it's recent. Just curiosity on my part. I apologize if I crossed a line."

Shen Xingsui moistened his lips, replying softly, "It's fine."

Xu Qinke continued, "I believe both of your choices to keep quiet are correct, just as we've done."

Shen Xingsui looked at him, listening intently.

Picking up a tool to dig up potatoes, Xu Qinke went on, "As you know, even though policies are more accepting, most of the public isn't. Many top celebrities have seen their careers plummet after announcing their relationships. Some have even fallen from grace entirely."

"Fu Laoshi is at the peak of his career," Xu Qinke smiled, "Not announcing might be the wisest choice."

Xu Qinke's words hit Shen Xingsui like a bucket of cold water, pulling him back to reality.

The euphoria from last night's relationship confirmation was crushed by harsh reality. Reflecting upon it, Shen Xingsui felt a strange gratitude towards Xu Qinke for the wake-up call.

Considering his current reputation and capabilities...

Would the public accept him as Fu Laoshi's partner?

What if he tarnished his idol's image?

"We...," Shen Xingsui's gaze darkened, finally admitting, "We indeed have no plans to go public."

Xu Qinke paused in his digging, "Is this Fu Laoshi's decision?"

Shen Xingsui pressed his lips together, remaining silent.

Xu Qinke, exceptionally astute, probed the couple's intentions with his words. He too wanted to go public but was apprehensive. If another couple showed courage, it would give him reassurance. But for now...

The situation wasn't as smooth as he hoped.

...

afternoon

Once all the guests had prepared their meals and invited the Fei clan for tasting, a lot of effort resulted in a table full of dishes. The villagers voted, and the winning dish was prepared by Fu Jinxiao and Teacher Tuya.

The production team finally unveiled the grand prize: "Congratulations to both of you for securing the role as Ambassadors of Cultural Promotion!"

"..."

Fu Jinxiao and Teacher Tuya remained silent for a moment before breaking into applause.

Indeed, it's a commendable endorsement. Promoting cultural heritage is always admirable, and it can significantly bolster a celebrity's public image. With the afternoon segment wrapped up, the second episode of "Starlight" came to an end.

It was time for the guests to depart.

Both Shen Xingsui and Shen Xingchen had booked their flights for the evening. However, Shen Xingchen had another engagement to shoot, so he couldn't return home immediately. He needed to head to City B for a magazine cover shoot first. Hence, Shen Xingsui was flying back alone.

As he packed his luggage and was about to leave, he bumped into Fu Jinxiao's assistant. Spotting Fu Jinxiao behind, he remarked, "Are you on the evening flight as well?"

Fu Jinxiao responded, "Isn't Shen Xingchen on a different flight from yours?"

"Yes," Shen Xingsui confirmed, "He has an engagement."

Fu Jinxiao instructed his assistant, "Change my flight. I want to be on his."

The assistant didn't hide her emotions, a young lady with an evident knack for gossip. She glanced at Shen Xingsui with a secretive smile before scampering off.

Shen Xingsui suspected she already knew their secret.

Naturally, he was elated to share a flight home with his idol, so he didn't refuse.

It was only after boarding that he realized they were in first class, and their seats were very close. Before takeoff, Shen Xingsui settled into his seat, pulled out his phone, and browsed his secondary Weibo account. Surprisingly, in the few days of his absence, topics surrounding him and Fu Jinxiao had gained significant traction. Fans were either shipping them or voicing contrary opinions.

Under Shen Xingsui's fan forum, he observed numerous comments:

"I heard Shen Xingsui and Brother Fu are from the same agency."

"Did they sign some kind of bundled marketing contract or something?"

"I don't like him."

"A newcomer in the industry for less than a year, always hanging around seniors, looking for shortcuts."

Shen Xingsui knew he wouldn't be universally adored, but encountering such comments still stung. Especially when he checked his dedicated fan group chat, the conversation coincidentally revolved around them:

"Are the rumors about the two of them true?"

"Impossible."

"Is Shen Xingsui even worthy of Teacher Fu? What's so special about him?"

"Compared to the artist who pursued Brother Fu earlier, he's just average-looking, right?"

"Exactly, exactly..."

Some comments were even more severe:

"I'm homophobic."

"If Teacher Fu likes him, I'll stop being a fan."

"Can't they just be normal?"

After scrolling for a short while, Shen Xingsui switched off his phone, unable to bear any more. He had suspected that if his relationship with Fu Jinxiao went public, some might disapprove, but the online reaction was overwhelmingly intense. Throughout the flight, he remained still in his seat, lost in thought. Upon landing, he seemed distant.

Somehow, their itinerary had been leaked; a vast number of fans awaited them. Many were holding light signs bearing Fu Jinxiao's name.

Fu Jinxiao, holding Shen Xingsui's luggage, said, "Let's go. Our ride awaits outside. I'll drop you off."

He has always been forthright, never hiding from his fans.

Shen Xingsui hesitated, "I'll use another exit."

A subtle frown formed on Fu Jinxiao's face.

"It might not be good if the fans see us together," Shen Xingsui murmured, "You go ahead; I'll follow shortly."

Fu Jinxiao paused. His silence, especially when he wasn’t smiling, was intense, almost suffocating.

As Shen Xingsui grew uneasy, Fu Jinxiao proposed, "Let's go through the private exit."

Shen Xingsui, surprised, asked, "We're not using the other exit?"

With calm determination, Fu Jinxiao replied, "We won't split up. If we leave, we leave together."

No matter the circumstance, he would stand by Shen Xingsui's side, never leaving him to walk alone.

The heavy weight in Shen Xingsui's heart began to lift. Together, they headed outside and got into their car. Now, apart from the driver, it was just the two of them.

Fu Jinxiao inquired, "Tired?"

Slowly nodding, Shen Xingsui nestled against Fu Jinxiao, playing absently with the hem of his shirt. The thought of parting soon made him reluctant to let go, and he found himself lost in reflection once more.

Under the car's warm yellow light, Fu Jinxiao glanced at him. Shen Xingsui's fair face was close to his, displaying evident signs of distress. Fu Jinxiao, astute as he was, had sensed something amiss from earlier that afternoon.

Yet, he hadn't expected Shen Xingsui to be so reserved, bottling up his feelings rather than sharing them.

Fu Jinxiao asked, "What's on your mind?"

Shen Xingsui's fingers froze. He took a deep breath, grappling with how to broach the subject of their clandestine relationship and express his tangled emotions.

"I..." he began hesitantly, "I've been thinking about our relationship and whether we should..."

Fu Jinxiao's eyes darkened, a subtle smile tugging at his lips, "Yes, I've pondered that as well."

Taken aback, Shen Xingsui met his gaze.

Fu Jinxiao sat beside him, his tall and imposing stature exuding a sense of security. A gentle smile graced his handsome face, and in a deep, resonant voice, he said, "Let's make it public."