Zhang Chi dared not accept An Ran's proposal.

He firmly believed in the power of emotions and never ventured into unorthodox means. However, in a twist of fate, he found himself accepting the small pouch from An Ran. It felt weightless, but once in his pocket, it felt oppressively heavy, making it hard for him to breathe.

By evening, Shen Xingsui had returned.

They met up at a roadside stall. The evening sea breeze was a tad chilly, and Shen Xingsui carried bags filled with various items.

Spotting him, Shen Xingsui waved.

Zhang Chi jogged over, asking, "Xingsui, why did you buy so much?"

Shen Xingsui smiled, replying, "Just wandered around. This town has many local specialties. I bought some for my family and friends."

Zhang Chi knew that Shen Xingsui had always been thoughtful of others.

For instance, whenever he traveled, he'd bring gifts for friends and family. He always put others before himself.

Moved, Zhang Chi softly said, "Let me help you carry those."

Shen Xingsui declined, "It's just two bags; I can handle them."

Zhang Chi, being slightly assertive, took a bag, insisting, "It's alright. I'm free anyway."

Gratefully, Shen Xingsui said, "Thank you."

The sunset by the beach was breathtaking. Zhang Chi, glancing at the horizon, suggested, "No need for thanks. But since we're here, how about a photo to remember this moment?"

Shen Xingsui hesitated, "Right here? I haven't styled myself today, and my outfit isn't..."

Zhang Chi understood the importance of maintaining their public image. He reassured, "It's fine. I won't post it on Weibo, just on my Moments."

That seemed acceptable.

Shen Xingsui, being the easy-going person he was, agreed, "Alright then."

Standing with their backs to the sea, surrounded by lush coconut trees, their smiles illuminated the scene—one beaming brightly, the other more reserved. The camera captured this heartwarming moment.

Zhang Chi smiled, "Done."

Shen Xingsui nodded, "Let's head back."

Zhang Chi agreed and posted the picture on his Moments. Almost immediately, it garnered many likes. Former classmates and recent friends commented:

"Is that Shen Xingsui?"

"Wow, you two are close friends?"

"Such a strong bond, truly enviable."

"Is this a private journey?"

"He's actually quite handsome in private too. I'm a fan of his. Could you get an autograph for me?"

This has been Zhang Chi's most popular post in his social circle in recent years. Even his own family and friends praised him, giving him their likes. Many said they are a perfect match and are meant for each other.

Those words deeply resonated with Zhang Chi, evoking unprecedented satisfaction and vanity. He thought, if one day he really ends up with Shen Xingsui, wouldn't so many be envious? Many bless their union, which means they truly are meant for each other, right?

A few days later,

Two of the songs were nearly completed. Hu Kaiyue was very satisfied, especially with Shen Xingsui: "Beyond my expectations. I have a song in collaboration with a major film that I plan to assign to you. You and Zhang Chi, produce lyrics for it within three days."

Shen Xingsui replied, "What if we also complete the composition within these three days?"

Hu Kaiyue chuckled, "That's quite ambitious."

"Not really," Shen Xingsui said humbly. "Sometimes when inspiration strikes, I compose both lyrics and melody together. It might not always be the best, but if you're satisfied, then revisions can be made, right?"

His point made sense.

Hu Kaiyue raised an eyebrow, "Alright, in three days, I'll only look at the final product."

Shen Xingsui nodded.

"I'll be meeting with the production team over the next three days," Hu Kaiyue said. "While you two collaborate, contact me anytime on WeChat if you have ideas or feedback."

Zhang Chi responded, "Understood, rest assured." Seeing Shen Xingsui nodding silently beside him, Hu Kaiyue felt relieved. Over time, Hu Kaiyue was increasingly drawn to Shen Xingsui's talent and temperament—humble, diligent, steady, and sometimes cunningly clever on top of her obvious skills, without even considering her background.

Truly endearing.

He needs to observe a bit more, and if no one notices, he'll make his move.

Shen Xingsui cautioned, "It seems like it'll rain the next few days. Please be safe while traveling."

"Understood," Hu Kaiyue warned him, "Don't stay up late writing. I've given you three days, and while it's not a lot, it's not too rushed either. If I find out you've been up all night after these three days, you won't like the consequences, understand?"

Shen Xingsui chuckled, "Understood."

After Hu Kaiyue left, it was just Zhang Chi and Shen Xingsui, giving them a moment alone.

Zhang Chi looked at Shen Xingsui, "Xingsui, should we..."

"Let's first decide who takes responsibility for which parts of the song," Shen Xingsui, always business-focused, said. "It'll make our collaboration smoother."

Zhang Chi nodded, "Alright."

He had been looking for an opportunity for days and felt frustrated as he couldn't find the right moment.

With their collaboration nearing its end, Zhang Chi felt this might be his last chance. He wandered in thought all night until lightning streaked across the sky, shattering the tranquility of the night. It was going to rain. After finishing their work, Shen Xingsui would usually leave the villa and have two assistants escort him down the mountain to a small western house for rest. But with the looming thunderstorm, the descent would be dangerous, and the villa did have guest rooms...

Zhang Chi felt increasingly restless.

When Shen Xingsui descended from the upper floor and saw Zhang Chi sitting in the living room, he asked, "Why aren’t you in the music room?"

"Xingsui?" Zhang Chi snapped out of his thoughts, seemingly startled by the presence. He hesitated a bit before answering, "No, I was just lost in thought."

Having worked closely for nearly a month, Shen Xingsui, out of concern, asked, "About what?"

Zhang Chi hesitated for a moment. Memories of An Ran's words echoed in his head, haunting like a spell. With the rain pouring outside, he finally uttered, "Today is my birthday."

Shen Xingsui paused, "Today?"

Zhang Chi nodded, looking outside he said, "I usually celebrate at home, but this year, due to work, I couldn’t make it."

Shen Xingsui, familiar with this sentiment, tried to console him, "Don’t be down. There'll be more birthdays in the future."

Zhang Chi smiled, "Thank you, Xingsui."

Shen Xingsui gave a faint smile in return.

Taking the initiative, Zhang Chi stood and said, "It’s dinner time. I remember we have some food in the fridge; let me cook something. With the heavy rain outside, it's better if you stay the night in the guest room. I'll prepare dinner."

Shen Xingsui had intended to leave for dinner, but another flash of lightning and rumble of thunder highlighted the danger. After a moment’s hesitation, he agreed, "Alright, I'll stay tonight."

Zhang Chi, feeling elated inside, headed to the kitchen.

Shen Xingsui, not one to sit idly while others worked, approached, saying, "Let me help."

"No need, I got this," Zhang Chi replied softly. "You must be tired from writing songs. Just rest."

Shen Xingsui felt it was wrong to just watch someone else work hard, but seeing Zhang Chi’s insistence, he relented. After exiting the kitchen, his phone rang – it was a call from Fu Jinxiao.

Walking to the window, Shen Xingsui answered, "What’s up?"

"Why haven’t you left yet?" Fu Jinxiao's voice conveyed concern, "It’s late."

Surprised that Fu Jinxiao was thinking of him, Shen Xingsui honestly replied, "The rain's too heavy, driving up or down the mountain now is risky. I’ve decided to stay here, in the guest room."

Fu Jinxiao frowned, "Alone?"

Shen Xingsui clarified, "No, Zhang Chi’s here too."

Hearing Zhang Chi’s name, Fu Jinxiao's expression became graver. Although he was concerned about the safety of driving in the rain, letting Shen Xingsui stay in the villa wasn’t his preferred choice either.

Fu Jinxiao cautioned, "Limit your interaction with Zhang Chi and go to your room early."

Shen Xingsui chuckled, sensing that in Fu Jinxiao's eyes, he was always incapable of looking after himself. "Understood. After dinner, I’ll head upstairs. Don’t worry, I’ll call you later."

Fu Jinxiao nodded, "Alright."

It seemed to Shen Xingsui that he could hear the sound of rain from Fu Jinxiu's end, mirroring the rain falling around him. A faint pang of longing sprouted in his heart. They hadn't seen each other for almost a month, and their moments together always felt fleeting, while the time apart felt eternal. Their distance wasn't just a simple phone call away.

Both were occupied with work.

Shen Xingsui, being introverted by nature, feared seeming demanding or immature, so he refrained from impulsive acts, no matter how much he yearned.

Rain traced down the window. Shen Xingsui whispered, "Where are you now?"

"Why?" Fu Jinxiu paused before replying in a measured tone, his voice tinged with a light jest, "Missing me, are you?"

A blush crept over Shen Xingsui's face, "That's not what I meant."

Having retorted, he then fell silent.

He'd contradicted his true feelings, but he hoped Fu Jinxiu would understand.

Fu Jinxiu responded softly, his voice deep and magnetic, carrying a hint of affection, "I miss you too."

It felt as if a droplet of sweet honey had dripped onto Shen's heart, warming it entirely.

Clutching his phone, Shen Xingsui felt the weight of their distance. Their rare phone calls now seemed a luxury, and he was reluctant to end the call. He mused that perhaps he was just deeply in love but managed to control his impulses.

Nevertheless, with dinner imminent, he regrettably ended the call.

Descending the staircase, he was surprised to find Zhang Chi had prepared an elaborate dinner, with candlelight and even red wine. It wasn't a simple meal, but rather a carefully planned dinner.

Emerging from the kitchen, Zhang Chi remarked, "I wasn't sure about your preferences, so I made a variety."

Shen Xingsui hesitated, "Such a feast?"

Zhang Chi, eyes narrowing in amusement, replied, "I initially wanted to keep it simple, but remembering it's my birthday, I might've gone overboard. I hope you don’t mind?"

Why would one mind someone else's birthday celebration?

Shen Xingsui shook his head, "Not at all."

Still, he was taken aback by the elaborate dinner. As they dined, Shen Xingsui found the dishes surprisingly tasty. He recalled a time during middle school when he'd tasted Zhang Chi's cooking – it had been quite unpalatable.

Zhang Chi chuckled, seemingly having the same memory, "I was pretty terrible back then, wasn't I?"

Shen Xingsui softly responded, "Everyone has strengths and weaknesses."

Under the dim lights, Zhang Chi murmured, "It's funny. Before you, I genuinely believed I was a good cook."

Because back then, despite the food's taste, Shen Xingsui had finished every bite, boosting Zhang Chi's confidence in his culinary skills.

Only later did Zhang Chi realize Shen Xingsui's gentleness.

Zhang Chi inquired, "Why didn’t you tell me back then?"

"My cooking is also pretty awful," Shen Xingsui thought of his numerous culinary disasters, and chuckled at Zhang Chi, "We're two of a kind, so let's not mock each other, shall we?"

Hearing this, Zhang Chi couldn't help but chuckle.

He cherished moments like these: sitting across the table from an old friend on a rainy night, reminiscing. Their shared memories made him yearn to turn back time.

In the soft light, Shen Xingsui looked refined and handsome. Every smile wrapped his face in a gentle warmth. Perhaps it was the spicy food that made his already beautiful lips seem even more lustrous. After a couple of glasses of wine, Zhang Chi mustered the courage and said, "Xingsui, join me for a drink?"

Shen Xingsui replied softly, "I can't hold my liquor. I'll pass."

This made Zhang Chi feel even more despondent.

Rain pattered outside. His cherished one sat right in front of him, yet he felt so powerless.

"It's okay, this wine isn't very strong. Today's my birthday. Celebrate with me," Zhang Chi poured himself a glass, took a sip, and filled another for Shen Xingsui, "Just a little."

Seeing Zhang Chi drink it himself dispelled some of Shen Xingsui's concerns.

Plus, Zhang Chi had prepared the meal; a small drink seemed a courteous way to show appreciation. It was also his birthday after all.

Hesitating for a moment, Shen Xingsui finally nodded, "Alright."

Zhang Chi smiled, "I'll pour for you!"

Perhaps too excited, his grip faltered and the wine glass shattered, sending shards flying and echoing a loud crash.

Zhang Chi quickly said, "Let me get another one."

Shen Xingsui initially wanted to assist, but seeing Zhang Chi rush to the kitchen, he cleaned up the broken glass. Zhang Chi returned, looking slightly embarrassed, "I'm sorry, I got too excited and my hand shook."

Shen Xingsui gently shook his head, "It's okay, as long as no one got hurt."

After pouring another glass of wine, Shen Xingsui sipped half of it. He wasn't very hungry and didn't eat much. When he felt full, he said, "I'm done eating. I'll wash the dishes later. Once you're finished, just leave them for me."

Zhang Chi nodded, "Alright."

Not far from the villa, a vehicle was stationed.

It was arranged by An Ran. Ever since their last encounter at the town's base, the paparazzi had been following them. They'd been staking out for days, hoping for explosive news. However, with the heavy rain that night, they were almost ready to give up.

The lead paparazzo, Lao Zhang, gritted his teeth, "They haven't left. They must be staying overnight. Our efforts shouldn't be wasted. Let's get closer, if we can snap something valuable, we'll hit the jackpot."

After some discussion, the others agreed.

...

Inside the villa,

Zhang Chi had finished eating.

Shen Xingsui was resting on the couch. It was past 10 p.m. Feeling drowsy from the wine, he stood up intending to clear the dishes. Overwhelmed by fatigue, he sighed, "I'm feeling quite tired. I'll wash the dishes tomorrow."

Zhang Chi's eyes flickered, "Are you tired? Or not feeling well? Let me help you upstairs to rest."

Shen Xingsui shook his head, saying, "I'm fine, no need."

He took a few steps forward, feeling a bit dizzy. Grasping the table to steady himself, Zhang Chi hurriedly came to his aid, asking, "Xingsui, are you okay?"

By now, Shen Xingsui had started to sense that something was off.

Perhaps the high alcohol content in the red wine had gotten to him, or maybe recent exhaustion was to blame. However, there was another possibility he dearly hoped wasn't true.

Zhang Chi stood by his side, supporting him, his eyes filled with concern.

Shen Xingsui glanced at him warily and said, "I'm okay, leave me be. I'm heading to my room."

Zhang Chi's heart raced with anxiety, his palms sweaty.

In the end, his courage failed him. He had genuinely wanted to add the substance given by An Ran to the wine. But seeing Shen Xingsui cleaning up the broken glass in the kitchen without blaming him for shattering the cup, he couldn't bring himself to pour the entire packet of powder into the drink. Only a scattered trace made its way in, and Zhang Chi ultimately discarded the rest.

The minute amount might be taking effect, but its impact was akin to a mild sleeping pill.

Shen Xingsui, truly a lightweight when it came to alcohol, stumbled after a few steps. Zhang Chi rushed to support him, saying, "Xingsui, let me help."

Shen Xingsui eyed him cautiously, gasping for breath with a hint of suspicion in his eyes, and finally murmured, "That wine... did you add anything to it?"

Zhang Chi hesitated for a moment before shaking his head, "I didn't."

Shen Xingsui remained silent for a while, not accepting Zhang Chi's support. He laboriously walked the short distance to the first-floor restroom. Once inside, Zhang Chi distinctly heard the sound of the door being bolted shut.

It was at that moment Zhang Chi fully grasped Shen Xingsui's determination to set boundaries with him.

Suddenly,

He sighed in relief, grateful that he hadn't done something irreversible in a moment of folly.

Outside the villa,

The rain-soaked paparazzi were visibly trembling.

Old Zhang asked, "Did you get the shots?"

"Got them, got them!" The paparazzo whispered excitedly, "I captured all their intimate moments together."

Old Zhang breathed a sigh of relief, "It wasn't a wasted trip then."

The young paparazzo said, "So boss, we've now completed our client's assignment. We'll send them the photos soon and maybe post a copy online. This will be a sensation, after all, it's about a young star's romance, and with someone of the same gender at that."

While the prospect of easy money was tantalizing, Old Zhang remained silent.

Having been in the industry for so long, he understood certain unwritten rules. After his subordinate handed the photos to An Ran, Old Zhang remarked, "We should get in touch with Shen Xingsui's agent and offer her these photos."

The young paparazzo was puzzled, "Why?"

"To see if they're willing to pay for them," replied Old Zhang, always the seasoned professional. "If they buy them, we won't release these pictures to the public."

The paparazzo whispered, "But we've already sent it to another client. If we don't post it, they will."

Old Zhang revealed a sly smile, "The agent and the client don't know how many paparazzi are involved. We take the money and don’t post, and if someone else does, what does it have to do with us? Money not made is money lost."

Hearing this, the young paparazzo marveled at his mentor's shrewdness.

Just as they were about to brave the heavy rain and make their exit, headlights flashed from the nearby mountain road. Another car approached at a quick pace despite the raging thunderstorm. Who would be so reckless in this weather?

Everyone was taken aback.

They all wondered who it could be. Could it be Hu Kaiyue?

The car halted at the entrance of the villa. As the door opened, a tall figure stepped out, unaffected by the rain. The dim light from the entrance illuminated the man, and the paparazzi could make out his face. To their astonishment, it was none other than—Fu Jinxiao?