Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was late night, three o'clock in the morning, and Yibo was on his way to bed after finishing studying his script when he looked at Zhan's message that took his breath away. 

No, I want to meet you in public.

And yes, I have a plan.” 

Finally, the day came. 

Not that he couldn’t predict it. 

They have been talking about the possibility of bringing their cooperation back to the public before. Nevertheless, so far, everything was just based on speculation. None of them come with some specific idea. But Yibo felt that this time it was different. It was not just a plain suggestion. Zhan really meant it. And when Zhan decided for something he had a gift to make it happen. He had the character of realisator and visionary under whose hands the ideas were usually brought to an action and people around supported him and loved him. Everything usually worked for him. Even the way he overcame the storms in the past was admirable after all. 

Yes. He meant it. 

But why did Yibo suddenly feel a stub of doubt and discomfort?

First of all, this was not his idea. Zhan came with it. And when they were talking about it before, he saw it just like some more or less probable possibility in the future that didn't bother him much so far. But now. It would have a great impact on him as well and he had to think it through. Well, what could Zhan's plan be? 

It was already a long time and they were not bound by any agreements. But one of the reasons why they stopped being in contact was not to cause a stir all around. Did he plan to randomly meet him somewhere and say “Aahh what a surprise that you are here!?”

Or come to the next awards ceremony exceptionally at the same time as him and attract the attention of the whole country by just simply nodding at each other? There were eyes watching them at every corner, waiting for that moment and he was not comfortable with doing something like that at all. Visiting each other at home would induce a volcano eruption of gossip hysteria or media mania and going together at some event besides the one involving their mutual drama would do the same. It might be best to just hold some “The untamed” anniversary meeting because at least it would be sensible and there was just a professional reason for such a meeting. But it might be more suitable with the tenth anniversary than now.

In every case, it would attract at least for some time a tremendous focus on them both and it would bring into their lives even more attention than before. The problem was that Zhan might not mind it that much. But Yibo did.  

And there were some more doubts that came to Yibo's mind even with their previous chat about the photos. Yibo let himself too hastily carry away with the mood during the day in Hong Kong and he told the truth about his feelings during The untamed. But what was, was. When he was saying it was real, he quite meant it. Not that he wouldn't feel anything at all now but he mostly closed the doors behind the past and Zhan's behaviour in Hong Kong and later made him just doubtful and returned him to the persuasion that it would be better to leave it in the past. Otherwise, Zhan's texts to Paris surprised him again because he understood from them that Zhan might care more than he even expected. 

Now, he was just confused and he was not sure what to do. But he also wanted to change things and stop with this theater play. He could even assume that they needed to overcome the beginning of this ‘hell’ and it would probably later help them return to the old rails when they could even start to behave like normal ex-colleagues again. 

He sat down on the bed with his gaze vacant, lost in his thoughts. But after a while he sighed. 

He took the mobile again and started to write an answer, but then, he decided to leave it for now. 

It was late at night and tomorrow was also a day. 

Zhan woke up early in the morning and headed to his studio after having breakfast and morning workout.

A fresh scent was drifting in the air after the rain but the time of thunderstorms was already over and the sun started to shine again. It was warming his face on the way through the busy streets of the city, waking up into a new day after a long night. He felt how the sun rays filled his being with vivifying energy and his eyes shined with joy that strangely emanated from his body. It was almost miraculous what a simple feeling of real happiness could do. On his way, he was just like an elf prince walking through nature while the dying fauna came back to life on every step he made and passing the good mood and positive atmosphere so much that even flowers in his presence seemed to start to bloom more than before. 

All his colleagues were surprised. They were looking at him from their offices with heads closed in gossip. But he didn't say anything and sat at his computer to start the work. Everything was going smoothly that day. He opened a text editor and immersed into his thoughts to write down first notes. But someone was always interrupting. 

“Boss!” a young colleague suddenly asked, addressing him by his nickname as he was not exactly the boss there for everyone but they all still used to call him like that. “What sunshine you are, today! Does your good mood relate to some new project?” she asked curiously. “Do you want a cup of coffee?"

Zhan smiled gratefully, leaning back in his chair. “Yes … and no,” he said mysteriously. She cocked her head in curiosity. “...But I would be very grateful for the cup of coffee,” he continued, amused by their mutual reaction. 

All of them were apparently feeling that he was up to something. But he was not going to tell them so easily. 

The girl ran away to the coffee machine but there were other colleagues that came to pry.

“What project? Do you want help again? You have always asked me,” Bao asked quietly. 

“Well, not now. So far I haven’t even made my first notes. And this is not related to graphics either. I need to think it through first.”

It is not related to graphics?

Bao looked perplexed but he sighed and left Zhan reluctantly with his work. He was glad that he could finally focus. His fingers started to dance across the keyboard and write the first ideas about the story that was quickly changing into the first concept. And in the future maybe even something more. 

Working hard, the time passed quickly and soon, it was lunch time. Zhan was not hungry and he didn't join the group. But he already  curiously checked his mobile phone to see if there was not any message he was waiting for. There was not. 

Zhan leaned on his chair, lifting his legs even up on the table to have some rest when he was alone there, sighing. 

Yibo, you are better than this, he thought.

But he decided to give him time till the evening. 

The rest of the shift passed quickly. When the time of departure reached, Zhan could finally say that he had done a lot of work. His stomach rumbled in protest reminding him that he didn't have lunch and he headed to his favourite bistro in the city accompanied only by his bodyguard. He was practically following him on every step when outside but he was glad there was not someone else with him as several paparazzi took their photos as usual, followed by many fans. He was smiling. But sometimes, it was really just from mere politeness.

Even during the lunch did his thoughts drift back to his new project, well, it was not only his. He had already at least a basic draft of it ready but first he needed to talk with his friend and senior. He was already sure he wanted to work on it himself. If Yibo would agree and join them, it was up to him.

When he finished his lunch he returned back to his apartment and immediately tried his luck. He called the producer of his old drama The Longest promise to confirm the prearranged meeting and then finally headed to the restaurant in the centre of the city. 

Someone was waiting for his company. 

Wang Yibo stayed till lunch at his apartment learning the scenario of his new movie. He decided that he has to do his work before he starts to think about anything else. After all, it was a lot of dialogs and texts he not only had to read but also learn every single part of it to remember. This job required good memory and focus, both the attributes he had. But he lately found himself distracted more than ever before. It was something disturbing because he never had a problem with both determination and discipline. But he knew where the problem was.

When the time of lunch came, he ordered the noodles through the phone and invited two colleagues from his new drama for mutual home training. They arrived quickly to have lunch with him and started an acting session that took him time till six o’clock in the evening. 

But Yibo was still not in the mood to stay at home. 

In Beijing there were hundreds of activities he could do. Some of them just required more money but he was not short of it already for a long time either. But in this case he still preferred some sport activities to any cultural or social events and when they finally left, he invited his friends to his favourite local climbing wall. He could only count a long list of activities he tried lately in his life and where he met many people from different spheres. It was why he loved his job because meeting new people and trying new things was refreshing. Rock climbing was one of the activities he liked lately the most. They claimed two walls with different volumes of difficulty before having some time of rest over a drink and a friendly chat. 

Now, they were sitting by the rounded table in a sports restaurant next to the hall with climbing walls. Its interior was modern, colorful and fresh, with a view into a park and a shining night city in the background. There were a lot of people inside and voices of customers merged with the sound of clinking glasses and plates and the talking reporter from a sports program running on the TV nearby. 

It was sometimes quite hard to hear his companion in that ruckus. But they still chatted. 

“By the way, what are you doing lately? We are planning a trip to some Chinese natural climbing spots next week,” Yibo's friend Cheng Xiao said. 

The waiter brought two glasses of drinks and put them on the table. Yibo took it and quickly drank to satiate his thirst. 

“Where?” he asked.

“To Bai He, for two days. We will be sleeping in nature.”

It was so tempting that Yibo thought for a while about rearranging his schedule. But he could not be sure if everything went smoothly. 

“It sounds good. But I already have some plans. I will see what I can do.”

“Fine, because then, we are already changing the locality…”

Yibo wanted to ask about something but a message distracted him. He almost forgot what time it was so he checked the cloak hanging on the wall in front of him. It was 22:11. 

He looked at the phone. A message from Zhan emerged. His friend, who was sitting next to him, curiously gazed in the direction and read it well. But Yibo was hesitating and then opened the message. A very short text emerged. 

“Lao-Wang, are you already scared?”

Yibo couldn't help. His mouth twitched but only then he realised that Xiao was watching. It was just another Xiao who was staring at him with a mysterious smile. Yibo instinctively hid the phone. But then he realised how foolish it was and flushed. 

“Everyone asks if you two… and now, I can see you are messaging with my own eyes.”

Yibo just made a gesture telling him to be silent before he replied. “We weren't for a long time. But we are now. Just don't say it please. It's still better if it will remain among us for now.”

“Why?” Xiao asked curiously. “It doesn't matter in the end, does it?”

“It doesn't matter to you because you are not pursued and stalked everywhere and the media doesn't write about you every day.”

Xiao laughed. “They might write after this meeting. I don't care! They would write about you but just once or twice and it all would calm down after a while. There are many more important things to write about.”

Of course there were, Yibo knew it. But his mind drifted somewhere else and his eyebrows furrowed. Then, he adopted a bit of an embarrassed expression and asked. 

“Do you think that people really want to see us together again? … I mean on the podium, on the screen?”

“I know many people are indifferent and some might be antifans. But quite a huge percentage of them definitely want that.”

Yibo was looking into his glass uncertainly. It was just like he couldn't understand the most important life mystery. 

“But why?” he suddenly asked. “I mean. We went our separate ways and we did so many projects, cooperated with so many people and still, it is always The untamed … and me and Zhan. I won't lie. There are roles I liked more and the time of filming and promo around The untamed was actually hard even for me. I was glad when it was all over. And even though I respect it as all my works. It is not the one I like the most. But whatever I do, I have a feeling everyone still remembers me especially as Lan Zhan. It will always be Lan Zhan. Why?”

His friend gulped from the glass and smiled. “Maybe, it was just the star constellation..."

Yibo was looking at him dumbfounded for a while but then he started to laugh. It was still that youthful smile even with the increasing number of years. 

“Seriously?”

But Xiao shook his head. “Some things and some people just ‘work’ together better than others. Daniel Redcliff and the trio in Harry Potter know much about it as well."

“And was he happy? Thank you very much. I have once even performed him. Glad that we ended up the same, at least in some point of view. Always trying to run from our dominating role.” 

He was really looking quite tired and dispirited. 

His friend thought about touching his hand to comfort him but he came to the conclusion it was better not to do that publicly. What if someone saw them or even took a photo and misinterpreted it. 

“Then, stop running," he suggested instead. “You both have something in common … and with Zhan. Only a small number of artists managed to write themselves into the hearts of so many people like you. You - are - legends,” he dragged out the last words to make them sound more significant and dramatic. “And not only just because this one work,” he winked.

Yibo was looking at him with his lips curved into a smile and half open mouth and he didn't know what to say. Finally he sighed and even though the conversation was quite nice he had to say goodbye. 

When he finally came home. He took some snacks and sat by the table, looking again at the message. 

He wrote. “I am not scared. So what is your plan?” 

When Zhan came from the meeting with his friend and former coworker he had a good feeling. The foundation stone of future cooperation was laid and the prospects were more than pleasant. Zhan was excited with both the story of his upcoming drama as well as the possibility to participate in both the preparation of the scenario and director’s work. The future job looked more than promising. Everything went smooth but one thing regarding one particular person  - Yibo didn't react at all. 

Zhan was uncertain. 

Why? Should he write to him again or call? Didn't he want to communicate or was he so busy that he didn't have time to answer? And also. Was he afraid or uncomfortable with his suggestion to return their cooperation back to the public? He didn't know what was in Yibo's head and what he was doing at that particular time so he decided to write to him again … and tease him as usual. 

He comfortably sat on the sofa, picked up the phone and wrote. “ Lao-Wang, are you already scared?” 

But when Yibo didn't reply he went to train the repertoire for his future concert. It was only another ringing tone of his mobile phone that made him interrupt. There was a new message from his junior. 

I am not scared. So what is your plan?

Zhan smiled. This always worked. But he couldn't help not to tease him again. 

"That is fine because I thought you were already giving it up. Letting me wait all day. You were not curious at all? What were you doing?”

Some time passed before the answer arrived again. 

I just needed to finish something first because you are distracting me, Zhan-ge. So what’s up? Is there going to be an Untamed anniversary or something like that?” 

Zhan was not sure if it was just a statement or reproach. 

“Lao-Wang, be nicer to your senior,” he wrote reprimandingly.  

Then, don’t distract me, Zhan-ge.

Zhan chuckled, thinking that he actually wanted to distract him much more but he was already writing another response.     

Zhan knew Yibo. The junior might sometimes be grumpy. What exactly was tightening his heart now he didn't know but his words about ‘true feelings’ emerged in Zhan's memories and he even asked for a while where they were. Because lately, he had a feeling that Yibo was not already sure of something he even himself started. 

Though, Zhan didn't come here to force him into something. He came to offer him reconciliation and mutual cooperation. It was up to him if he was willing to get on the board.

“Await an offer for a new job,” he wrote. “It should come soon. You will see. If you like it, we can see each other again.”

And after a while, he added. “Don't be afraid. If we are in this together, it will be alright.”

Chapter Text

The next day, Zhan spent all working day in his studio doing his usual work but he was so eager about the new drama that he couldn't help not to sit down to that immediately after returning home. 

It was an idea that existed already for a long time. First, they were talking about it during the filming of the show The Longest promise. It came to life as a result of a mutual brainstorming session with the director Jeffrey Chiang over the cup of good wine. But they had too much work and they didn't have the capacity to realize it, so they delayed it for later. 

And there was also something else from his point of view. When they were talking about the story, there was one main character which from Zhan’s point of view couldn't be protagonased by anyone other than Wang Yibo. He was persuaded that no one else would be more suitable for the role. And that was the reason why he considered it almost unfeasible. At least till Yibo suddenly appeared at his door. 

He was trying to find other actors for the role and there weren't many he could even think of. He thought about Li Hongyi for a while. But the result was still the same, it was never that good as if it was him.  

That was one of the reasons why he really hoped Yibo could accept and participate on the show. But he was not sure of the success for several reasons. 

The first was the fact that Yibo didn't do this kind of drama lately and he was not sure if he is still interested. He could hardly persuade him to work on something that doesn't interest him at all. The second was that there were some similarities with Lan Zhan. And the third, he was not sure lately if he, Yibo, wanted to cooperate. His late behaviour reminded him of the past and he had a feeling that if they could see each other as ex-colleagues and he would ask him to meet, he would simply tell him “No need”. Zhan’s lips twitched when he remembered those days. When he thought about it, Yibo was quite a complicated person. But it was one of those things that actually attracted him so much. 

Someone, and maybe even Yibo, could think that Zhan was doing it all just for business and for his new project. But he would be tremendously mistaken. Because the main intention was to give them the opportunity to see each other more often. While their usual working life divided them all the time, their mutual cooperation did otherwise. They would have time not only to see each other much more often but also to clarify some things. 

Zhan was waiting for Yibo's reaction for four days while he continued working on the topic of the story together with the director. They had several meetings and he, on the contrary to Yibo, seemed to be very excited. 

“That sounds great,” the director said when Zhan once visited him at home. “I like your notes to the story. The question is who will be in the production. If there is going to be a conflict among nations rather than just clans, I think we might consider co-production with other countries, Taiwan, France and maybe even Norway.” 

It was a challenge but the story asked for it. 

“It’s appropriate, though more complicated. But regarding the story, I would choose the second option.” 

It meant that even the shooting might partly take place abroad. 

“Could I participate in the choice of localities?” Zhan asked. “I already know a great part of Europe.”

“Of course, we both will… I just have two conditions,” the director said, satisfied. “I would like you to play Wu Ning. That role is perfect for you. I have seen you as him since the first picture.”

Zhan was surprised. There were many actors he had in his mind, except Yang Yang. But he was honored. Yang Yang could play many other roles as well. He was an excellent dancer and had a perfect form for a warrior, martial artist etc. There were other roles suitable for him. But there was something else that made Zhan uncertain. 

“Ah, ehm, that is an honor but…” he hesitated. 

The director smiled and raised his eyebrows. “Yes?”

“It’s just about the prince of the northern kingdom, Li Nianzhen, I asked Wang Yibo if he would like to play it...”

Zhan looked a bit ablush, awaiting the reaction. But the director immediately melted. He was surprised but utterly excited. So much that even Zhan didn't expect that. 

“What a surprise! But that is great news! Isn't it? I have always thought he would be great in the role.”

Zhan shook his head and slightly inclined it when he was asking. “But Wu Ning’s and Nianzhen’s story … is that brotherly drama?” He narrowed his eyes in contemplation.

“No, it is more a sort of a bromance. But that sort as in Fangs of Fortune, The lost tomb and so on. And… it is more complicated. You know the story…”

“Aaah,” Zhan nodded and deeply exhaled. A feeling of hesitation grasped his heart. When he considered them playing together he thought about some more distant roles that wouldn't involve any strong emotions. This was the sort of enemies and strangers to allies and to very close ‘friends’. A sort of hate / love relationship covered with a veil of mystery. 

“Zhan, that is up to you,” the director explained gently. “I will not force you. There are many roles you would perform as greatly as only you can do. But the truth is that you and Yibo have been born for these kinds of roles. It's just a wasted opportunity. Would you rather let Yang Yang play the role ?”

It was the right question. Would he? Who exactly did he want to fool here? Just himself.

 He imagined all the scenes during shooting, seeing Yang Yang with Yibo instead of him in all those, once happy then heartbreaking and touching scenes. And he should be there and watch them? No, he couldn't. 

Zhan shook his head. “No, no, no … When I think about it I think it is ok like this.”

The director chuckled. “Well, then it is settled. We have outlined the story today but there is still too much work, we are not even in the phase of script preparation. But I will start to write it soon. Let me know. ”

“Of course,” Zhan nodded. 

“Just another one thing. You said you have asked Yibo. Is he willing? Because then, there wouldn't be any problem with financing the drama. Even investors would fight for it,” he chuckled. “Imagine, seeing you in the same frame after years… Everyone wants that, even many international producers would immediately grab such an opportunity.”

Zhan couldn't help not to slightly blush but he composed himself and shrugged his shoulders. “Ehm, to tell the truth, I don’t know yet. I am still waiting for his response.”

The director sighed. “Ah. Then, we will have to wait. I believe he is very busy but the shooting will not start even this year. If it all goes well, we could start filming in spring next year.”

Everyone of us is busy , Zhan thought but he didn't say it aloud. 

It was finally time to leave. 

He decided to wait for Yibo's response this time. He was not going to push him. Or beg. 

The next day after lunch, he had some snacks and headed to congress centre for a rehearsal. He was supposed to sing at a charitable event today in the evening and there were actually going to be many famous people. 

Many but Yibo. Because Yibo wasn't there when he was, as usual. 

The interior was quite plain but elegantly accommodated. It was a long modern room in black and white design with a podium on its end and many white tables with chairs scattered through the room with a long path leading in its centre. 

It was still several hours to the event and Zhan needed some relaxation so he went to the local wellness centre. When he came out again, there was a message on his phone. His eyes widened and he quickly opened it in expectation that it was from Yibo. But the name that emerged on the display after opening the messenger belonged to someone else. 

Are you going to the charity gala?

It was Yang Zi.

Her face slowly emerged in his mind. It was his other former colleague from Oat of Love. He hesitated. 

“Yes, I have a performance there. You?”

Fine, my schedule for today's day has changed, I am coming as well. See you there.

Zhan gasped. 

He was quite surprised because their relationship also was not so warm lately. But she was probably just looking for some company. Still, she could look for someone else because if they were supposed to be seen there a lot of media would be filled with gossip. But who cared, after all.

Yang Zi was the one of those women many fans and even the media quite often considered his potential date. But they were not right. Yes, she was a beautiful woman and very talented and he couldn't deny that they were once training quite intensively together for some romantic scenes in the show, but then, they were always just friends. In this way he liked much more his other colleague, Zhang Yingyi. And also another one, Li Qin. Yes, she really was the woman he might even imagine his life with … If it would even coincide with something like that. But the truth was that starting a family would require settling down and he was not in the state when he would like to do it, now. 

Zhan was suddenly contemplating why he didn't think about Yang Zi in their new drama. The reason was easy. Because the northern kingdom was supposed to be a bit different, they were looking for people with particular facial features. And Yang Zi didn't have them. Or did she? Well he would have enough time to find out today. 

The rest of the afternoon passed very quickly and later, he found himself getting into the van. It was not dark outside but the city started to slowly switch into the evening mood. 

His performance was somewhere in the middle of the evening program and he had quite a lot of time but he didn't want to drink spirit before it so he ordered just a soda. There were many people around looking at him with admiration and praising his new image. He always knew what to wear to look just splendid. But he was not alone. 

There were actually many actors and he had a great opportunity to see and scrutinize them to evaluate if he really liked them in the show. There were even Diliraba, Yang Mi, Gong Jun, Tan Jianci, Wu Lei, Zhao Lusi. Neo Hou just entered through the door immersed into a passionate interview with Joseph Zheng. 

Zhan grinned. He liked these boys. They were always so cheerful. 

Another actress, Ester Yu, just passed around, dressed in a stunning evening robe. He was so stunned with its dazzling beauty that he even didn't notice the girl that emerged before him. 

She was apparently in a good mood. 

“Zhan, get all the girls out of your head at least for a while!” Yang Zi joked. 

Zhan chuckled, observing her. She was also, well, beautiful. 

“Zi, you look stunning!” he praised his friend and kissed her on her cheek. It was polite duty for him as a gentleman.

“And you! Isn't this the latest model from GUCCI?”

“Haha, no, no no. Not the latest. but almost…” “After you,” he finally got up and invited her to the bar. “Are we going to work on some gossip?”

But Yang Zi just laughed and waved her hand. “If you want a gossip, you can later accompany me home.”

He was returning home after one o'clock in the morning, pleasantly tired and alone. The song he introduced on gala was from his new album that was supposed to be launched in one month. But the references were brilliant as usual and he had a good feeling about it. The event was an opportunity to talk to old colleagues, friends and directors but also many people from different branches and he got involved in very interesting discussions about nowadays medicine, science, construction and other topics so he came home full of new inspiring knowledge as well.

When he returned to his empty apartment, he was in a great mood which spoiled only one thing - that Yibo didn't write or call. Again. 

The next day in the morning, there were already many photos from the gala with him as one of the leading guests. And many focused on his photos with Yang Zi. Zhan just chuckled and let it go. But what really attracted his attention were different photos from rock climbing. 

There was Yibo with some group of rock climbers, four boys and one girl, who was, as the only one, standing very close to him and even holding him around the waist. They had the rock climbing equipment in their hands and behind their backs, high rocky walls were raising to the sky. 

So that was what the ice prince did, Zhan thought for himself. He was observing another bunch of photos - Yibo on the wall, Yibo on the top of the rock. He was apparently also doing a promo photoshoot with a photographer and his photos started to spread as a viral the moment he published it as usual. He had too busy hands to reply. But couldn't he at least reply something like I am busy now, I will respond later?  

Zhan couldn't help not being a bit annoyed and jealous. And he was even contemplating who that lovely girl was. But he put the phone down and started to prepare breakfast. The time flew by and his office was waiting. By the time the melodies of his new songs sounded through the room. He was still listening to them to correct any imperfactions. But the only one he found was the sound of a sudden incoming message that mixed with the melody of the song. Zhan already didn't expect much so he just leisurely took the phone to his hand and looked at the sender. It was Yibo.

He raised his eyebrows and opened it with a strangely thrilling sensation, starting to read.

Hello Zhan-ge, thank you for the offer. It looks interesting and I am looking forward to seeing it once it is finished. But I haven't got capacity among upcoming projects and, to tell the truth, I think, we should let things be as they are for now. I wish you good luck.

The reply was as brief as was typical far junior. 

Zhan havily inhaled. So far happy expression became slightly clouded with disappointment. 

He was just looking at the text, processing all words and feelings. He could understand Yibo’s reasons but there was a lot of space to adapt, the project was only at the beginning. Junior didn't give it a chance at all and that was a shame. And letting things be as they were? Was he just so comfortable now that he didn't want to face any challenges, after all?  You are changing opinions so often you could be a politician, Yibo , he thought and shook his head with a grin. 

But what was he expecting from Lao-Wang of today, who was a great guy but also ambitious and self-absorbed? He needed no one but whoever helped him reach his goals. When he was so satisfied with his present life without obligations why did he even seek him out. And now, he was avoiding him again. If it was supposed to be like this, he shouldn't have come to see him at all. 

Zhan deeply inhaled and clenched his fists in disapproval. But determination welled up inside and he suddenly had an urge to scream.

“Lao-Wang, you have started this. Don't think you will run away from the field so easily,” he thought. “You have probably forgotten who Wei Ying was.”

He decided that he won't give it up. The wheels of fate have already begun to turn. He will just let it all go the official way. It was normal that actors were offered the roles after all and the director was thrilled by the idea of casting Yibo. So why would he stop him? Then, Yibo will have to deal with it. The official way was practically equal to the public. Even such an innocent thing would definitely mean a change. And it might even be the beginning of something bigger. 

Now, it was more in the hands of the film crew. Zhan was not willing to get involved in this matter any more. 

They would see if they met once on the set. 

Till that time he still had a lot to do. 

Chapter Text

The next month passed very quickly. 

Xiao Zhan mostly spread his time among his design projects, training for an upcoming concert, preparation of the new album, shooting of new advertisements and preparation of treatment for the new drama. There were constantly more and more people involved and excited about the show and it even became a real fun. But there was still a long way from treatment preparation and script writing over settling copyrights to looking for various sorts of financial resources. Many actions went in parallel. Such matters like casting came after much more important steps and the shooting itself was in plan after more than a half of a year. But then, it would be long and demanding because they were going to shoot a drama that was about 30 to 40 episodes long, and the duration was about 45 minutes each.

Most of the details were already planned and it didn't take such a long time to prepare treatment, episode synopses and series bible, but it permanently went through editing. The episode synopses included all episodes one by one and one pilot that was about 20 minutes longer than the others.

After a month when they had all documentation for producers prepared they already started to offer the show to various studios and producers.

There was one major rule - that Zhan himself was a guarantee of viewership and many producers would grab the opportunity just knowing he was playing the main role. He was the main lure. But this show was going to be very expensive. It was to be a Xianxia drama with many visual effects and special and original costumes and scenes as well. It was supposed to be filmed abroad and with foreign casting as well. One of the kingdoms in the show was supposed to have a new and specific, more floristic design with Art Nouveau features that was also prepared by Zhan in cooperation with another designer. 

The producing companies were immediately interested but they wanted to know more about the casting. 

“Who will play the major roles?” asked the representative of the biggest movie and TV studio in their country when they personally came to introduce the drama. 

Zhan and the director looked at each other. It was a bit of a preliminary question on the first meeting. But, of course, actors were important.

“We have some tips but it is in the phase of preparation,” he answered. 

Joffrey followed, “There are different roles, but take kindly into account that this is just my vision. Actors haven't confirmed their participation yet,” the director politely explained. “The casting should be starry. There are roles of important characters in two major martial art sects. They include Yang Yang, Li HongYi unless he would play the prince Li Nianzhen and Neo Hou, Cheng Lei, Tian JiaRui, Omid, Tian Xu Ning, Wang Haoxuan and Li Day Kun. Li Nianzhen's sister should be played by Diliraba. But it's just a suggestion, we don't know who will be interested and who will have time in their busy schedule to accept the offer.“

The production representative smiled. “And if all of them accept? Will you want to cast them all?” he asked, amused. 

The director accepted the challenge, “Well it depends on how many financial resources we will find.” He didn't let himself be distracted with the notion. 

It was apparent that shows with many prime actors were guarantee of quality and viewership. But it was also even more expensive. 

“And Li Nianzhen? I like the role, but you have just one tip. Both his character and story are interesting, indeed. But what if it won't be Li HongYi? Who else do you have in mind?”

Zhan froze and looked at the director. He didn't seem to hesitate. Zhan has already decided that he will not interfere. But even so he felt a strange feeling of tense at that moment. 

“We have another tip. We want to offer the role to Wang Yibo.”

Hearing this, the producer's eyes widened. 

“To Wang Yibo?” he looked surprised at Zhan just like he expected him to deny it. Zhan already understood it would be exactly like that very often, now. 

“Really? Well, that sounds…” 

He didn't say how. Instead he fell silent and after a while of contemplation continued. 

“Try to contact him and the major actors. I like the concept. And with that casting, you have surprised me. But I want more information. It is settled for now..”

They said goodbye and left but when Zhan was leaving, he saw a look in the man’s eyes that resembled that of a predator feeling a very juicy prey. Zhan had a feeling that he would rather have some rest before it all explodes. A vision of his family and his hometown came over his mind as always in such moments.  

Suddenly, he felt a wild storm coming.

The next steps were already in the hands of the crew but such things were not easy to cover up. The information about a new possible drama coming already got into virtual space and even the names of first actors that were on the list started to leak. There were long discussions about Dilraba, Yang Yang and Xiao Zhan on the internet and many fans were very delighted about seeing them together in one frame. But Yibo’s name so far remained hidden after the production company’s doors. Even them seemed to be careful about it. Maybe, they just wanted to leak it one by one and increase the excitement for the show. Even expectations played a very important role. 

While the crew was doing their job by looking for other financial resources and many other activities, Zhan focused on preparation of new designs for the show - both costumes and scenes were significant and they wanted to give them some new, original look.

He hasn't talked to or chatted with Yibo lately at all. The last communication between them happened in the beginning of August when he sent him his rejection message and Zhan sent Yibo wishes on the day of his birthday. It was the day when he led in the number of social media activities as usual. Everyone wanted to congratulate him. Zhan chuckled. What was his one message in the flood of all that congratulations from his friends, family and fans? But sometimes, one simple message had a higher price than a million of others.

Now, it was already the middle of September and Zhan had had enough of work and everyday bustle. He was not in Chongqing for a long time and he went to visit his family. 

He loved home and his stay was always very relaxing. His parents welcomed him with open arms, their relationship was always warm. As to the only child they gave him all their parental love. 

His mother even prepared a feast, over which they had a very pleasant chat about news in Chongqing as well as Zhan’s life and experiences from traveling or shooting. But his mother was always afraid about him and his busy lifestyle and this time, it was not different. 

“You have lost weight, thank god I have cooked and baked you a cake, you need to eat.”

Zhan ate enough and well but a lot of his fat went to the muscles. He had a lot of exercise after all. His mother was just like many others, sometimes worrying too much.

“Look at him, he looks great and healthy as usual,” said his father with a satisfied expression, playfully comparing his muscles with Zhan. “Ehm, by the way, son, I would like you to help me in the garden if you would be so kind, there are some trees that need the service…”

His mother stopped lifting a spoonful of soop and stared at her husband. 

“He has just arrived and you are already asking him to do some homework?”

But Zhan just chuckled. “That is ok. I will stay for the whole week and of course I will help with whatever you need.”

“See, how good and well-behaved son we have,” the father replied.

His mother just disapprovingly shook her head but she also smiled at Zhan, satisfied with his polite and well-behaved bearing. 

“And what about going on some trip to nature? I wanted to take you out,” Zhan suggested.

Both parents were very happy about it and they agreed. But they were also curious about recent news. 

“What is that new drama everyone is already talking about? It is reportedly on the way. Is that true?” his mother asked when she was bringing three cups of coffee to the living room. 

They all sat together and enjoyed its refreshing scent.  

Zhan smiled. “Yes, it is not a melon. I am just also working on it,” he explained and brought them the design sketches of both new scenes and costumes. His mother was impressed. “Lovely work. It looks mysterious and fairytale-like at the same time. I can almost imagine the world itself.”

"Ha,ha, great, it was an intention,” Zhan replied happily.

“So, my son will be a director.”

“I am more of a helping hand, mom...”

“And your colleagues will be Diliraba and Yang Yang,” she continued, ignoring his reply. “This Yang Yang is such a kind boy.”

“They might be but, what I know, they are not confirmed yet…,” Zhan answered but his mother shook her head.

“That is not what is in the news. It is written here they are…” she insisted. 

Zhan looked at the display of the news on phone and read. 

Diliraba, Yang Yang and Li HongYi reportedly confirmed to participate in the shooting of a new drama directed by Jeffrey Chiang. 

“Aah, ehm, then yes, they might have confirmed it already.”

Zhan was surprised how quickly it all went.

And so it continued even till the next day. 

Many other information except the brief topic of the story flew out of the internet waters as well as information about other casting and possible release date. The whole internet, media and especially social networks were already talking about it but Zhan didn't want to watch it. He came for vacation to Chongqing and he wanted to enjoy it with his family. 

They went to nature for a hiking trip as they planned. The weather was excellent. Zhan enjoyed the scenery and the scent of his home land. He was now strolling these places where he used to hike a lot when he was young. It was already a long time ago but he still loved to return. 

“Look at this, such an old dove tree,” his father said and stopped. 

They admired an old tree with a monumental crown. But the trip demanded some rest, while they were resting, Zhan took several steps and looked around. The view into the green hills was breathtaking. The air was fresh and there was no one but them, besides several people passing around. After two hours they slowly came back down to the valley and headed down. 

As Zhan later caught the signal several messages arrived. He looked at them almost reluctantly but he wanted to know in case someone would call back. One of them was from the director, one from his studio and the last … 

Yibo?

He frowned. It didn't happen often that he would call. And Zhan was immediately almost sure that something unusual happened. 

“Are we going to have a break? I need to answer some calls,” he suggested. 

“Oh, look at how our son is responsible. Immediately on the phone.”

Zhan was not sure if he meant it or not but he just sneered. He and maybe even his mother thought that, this time, he was ‘responsible’ possibly too much but she understood that it could be something important. In any case, his mother was glad for a while of relaxation and happily accepted. 

Zhan looked at the media first. And there it was. The news had already gone viral. 

Wang Yibo was officially offered the role in the newly confirmed drama . 

Wang Yibo and Xiao Zhan playing together in the drama again???

Yibo officially offered to join the crew with Zhan!

Is WangXian back? 

A flood of adoring comments and fan posts celebrating the news followed and highly overpowered comments of antifans. The news had over a million likes on social media during just half of an hour. But people were speculating about why Yibo should and why he shouldn't accept. 

Is that true? Are Yibo and Zhan going to play in a drama again? … was the most common question. 

Though, no one knew the answer, because Yibo didn't confirm nor refused yet. Or, at least, it was not officially written. And Zhan's father, who just looked at the news as well, was stunned. 

“There is news about Wang Yibo joining the shooting as well, is that true?”

Zhan cleared his throat. “Ehm, well. I don't know, it’s probably just gossip, but he might.” 

Zhan's mother was surprised. “Is that so, I thought…” but she didn't finish. Even so, Zhan understood. 

“Don't be afraid, mum. We have already gone through it all. We are experienced actors and this is just ‘usual’ drama. Nothing controversial. It might be even useful if people won't see us together only in one role.” 

His mother had nothing against Yibo, she was just worried about his son but when he saw it like that, she seemed to let it go. He was already not that newbie like before. And she liked that boy. He was always kind and polite, such a charming man. She wouldn't mind even inviting him home after a long time. It was just, there was still something that confused her.

“I didn't even know you were friends. It looked like you are not in contact any more. You know, after what happened. Why don't you invite him here again then? I would like to see him,” she said suddenly. 

Zhan looked at her surprised and confused, “Huh, mum, you are so kind. Wang Yibo is even busier than me. I am not sure he would accept it but I will tell him about it. ”

At least sooner or later, he thought. 

To tell the truth, at this moment, he was not sure what his reaction would be. 

He was answering the phones in the car the whole way back. But Yibo didn't call since and he left it for a more calm and private moment when he would be home. He used a moment in the evening, when his parents were busy with work, went to his room and finally dialed Yibo's number. 

Yibo's voice suddenly sounded in the receiver but it was tense. 

“Why did you do that?” he simply asked without greeting. 

Zhan sighed. “Be more specific.”

“Don't pretend you don't know. I wrote to you that I won't participate. But I still received the offer. Why?”

Zhan hesitated but found the words. “The director already knew about it all. He was excited about it. I just left it in his hands.”

“I told you I don't want to. You should have told him,” he paused. “Zhan-ge, why did you do that?”

He insisted. His tone was not exactly friendly even though he bore more traces of disappointment than rage but Zhan automatically came into a defensive stance. Still, he tried to remain calm. 

“Why did I do that?” he replied. “Do you want me to be sincere? I did it because I just would like you to play in the drama. If you really don't want so much, just refuse it, Yibo. It is a normal process.”

A moment of silence.

“I did, but I have received another offer. With the payment and conditions, even my company is pushing me to take the job.”

What? Now, even Zhan was intrigued and stunned. “With the payment and conditions? What did they offer you?” he asked, confused. 

“You don't know?

Zhan just narrowed his eyes. “Of course I don't, this is not going over me.”

Yibo fell silent again. 

“You shouldn’t have started this mania. The whole internet is full of it. Everyone is asking me on the way… really, you shouldn't have done it." 

Zhan sighed. 

“Just hold on, it won't be that bad later. You are an actor, Yibo. Act like that.”

But Yibo was not already there. He finished the call. 

Zhan sat down on the bed and deeply inhaled. But he was lost in his thoughts. 

The more important for the show the artist was the more he would get, of course. Even Zhan knew that viewership with both of them in the same frame would be extremely high. But now, he was really stunned. What did they offer Yibo to persuade him to stay?

Zhan shortly looked at the mobile phone, feeling dispirited after the call but he decided to put it away and not look at it till his flight back to Beijing. There was really nothing more reasonable than not to look at it at all. It needed a great deal of self-control but he was already used to it. If something happened that would need his attention, his studio would call him. 

He went to the garden to take some fresh air and remember his youth days. His memories were lingering in every corner of the home or drifting through the air he was breathing, evoked by some visual, olfactory or other sensation. But there were memories both bitter and sweet.

Suddenly, the door to the garden opened and his mother came in, sitting next to him.

“I can feel water in the air, it will be raining.”

Zhan also noticed it.

“Yeh, I know,” he said and took her around her shoulder. 

“You look like you need a hug,” she said. "Are you worried because of that new drama?”

“No mom, I am not worried. But being here now, I am not sure I will be able to leave.”

She smiled. 

“It must be sometimes hard. Tomorrow, I will cook you your favourite noodles if it makes you happy. That one you loved when you were small.” 

Yeh, there were definitely noodles they loved to eat in the streets. 

He gratefully nodded. But it was quite a cold evening and she got up to take them inside. “By the way, what is your new drama about? Tell me something about it,” she asked on the way.

Zhan quite gladly agreed, but he was telling her the story already in the warmth of the house. 

“It is about a fisherman living in a secluded valley surrounded by the rocky mountains in the kingdom called Tianxu,” he started to explain.

“One day a girl from a foreign kingdom from the far west comes with a plea to help her country. He decides to help her reach the king of the country, even though he knows that taking foreigners in is prohibited. But they are brought before the general of the royal army and prince of the kingdom who sends them to prison…”

And so the story continues…

Li Nianzhen, poised, handsome and a noble wiseman but also ambitious and detached ice prince sees Ning as an intruder the moment he meets him. Wu Ning helps the girl to get to the king and soon finds out that she is not just someone, she is a princess who comes to warn the king and asks him for asylum and help in the fight against a mutual enemy. She is accepted into the kingdom together with Wu Ning (to Nianzhen's disappointment). But Wu Ning soon shows that he is a very capable player in the game. The heart of Li Nianzhen's sister subdued more easily. But there is no antidote against Ning's charm. Though, Nianzhen still doesn't lose his guard. Because there is something mysterious about the man, perhaps a secret he brings deep in his heart…

The last day before he returned to Beijing, Zhan went out with his Chongqing friends he didn't see for a long time but he lifted his hand in the moment they looked like they were going to open their mouths. He wanted it to be clear. 

“I don't want to hear about any gossip,” he said determinedly, ignoring their disappointed gazes while their mouths slowly closed again.  

All of them wanted to ask. 

Zhan laughed.

“Just let’s have some fun.” 

Chapter Text

( Back in time)

It was a day after Wang Yibo sent a rejectional message to Zhan. 

His answer delayed as he stayed the whole week climbing in nature with friends. The truth was he enjoyed it so much that he didn't even want to go back. But there were other responsibilities waiting and no fun could last forever. 

Among delivered mail was a four days old request from Xiao Zhan’s studio, sent to introduce him to a new drama in which he was asked to play. The letter Xiao Zhan informed him about in advance. Yibo couldn’t lie that he was not curious at all and he partly didn't go through it already when it arrived. But he had too many activities to do and it had to wait until this week. 

Now, junior saw it all and it couldn’t be said that he didn’t like it. Even the character of Li Nianzhen was actually interesting but it didn’t utterly fit into his plans. He was lately focused on shooting movies and he had so many activities that any other was just a burden. And so, he didn’t even think about it.

The truth was that with his lifestyle he had time for nothing but work and thousands of hobbies he just indulged in every day. Looking at his schedule, it was very hard to find a free space even for a date. He was already very picky about which project he would accept. It must have been something special that would be very interesting and challenging or have a special place in his heart. But this drama was not exactly that type of work.

He quickly solved it and focused on his upcoming work - dance choreography for a performance - that took him most of the time. But it took just another three days to receive another urgent call from his employment.

It was his manager Pan Yue who was reserving his hotel in Hong Kong. And as she was not usually calling (she was sending messages because he was always busy) he understood that it must have been something big. 

The mobile vibrated in the back packet of his pants for at least five times before he picked it up. 

“Yes! Yue, what is it? I am on training.”

“Just calling that you should come over. Some important mail arrived.”

“Can’t you just scan it and send it by e-mail? You know how busy I am.”

Yue was a bit impatient, “Yibo, you could at least sometimes come and see us. There are more matters than just this one.”

Yibo rolled his eyes. “Ok, see you later.”

He finished the call, put the mobile into his back and went on the dance floor to join the rest of the team. It looked like he would have lunch somewhere else then he planned. 

The dance training lasted till one o'clock in the evening. After that, he finally surprised Pan Yue with his presence. They were sitting in her cosy office and she was lifting an open letter to him.

It was apparently from the director Jeffrey Chiang. Yibo was surprised when he put out an official offer of the role in his upcoming drama. Didn’t he already refuse it? But there was no chance it was some mistake. The only mistake could have happened in communication between him and Zhan, or Zhan and Chiang. 

Though, it was not difficult to understand what it meant. Because such offers were usually not classified. 

Yue was waiting for his reaction with her hands crossed all the time. 

“I suppose this is a result of your adventurous visit to Zhan in the hotel.”

Yibo scrutinized the letter and then went through all the conditions and offered payment. It was definitely not enough. But it was not what really interested him. He heavily sat on a chair and howled, his head dropping back. He was apparently sorry for his recent behaviour. This was not what he expected. What did Zhan even though? He should have easily cross him out from the list of potential actors. But he apparently didn't.

The woman in front of him raised her eyebrows. 

“Are you going to accept?” she asked. 

Yibo just shook his head. “Of course not, I have no time for this.”

“Fine, but if this leaks, it will be a feast for the media. So be prepared."

Not that much as the visit in the hotel would be , Yibo thought but didn't say it aloud. 

“We can ask the director not to mention it, if he is the only one who knows…”

Then, nothing would change. 

“But if he is not…” Yue said. 

 Yibo sighed. 

“If that happens, I will be pissed off, but it means nothing. It will be just a storm that will soon get over. ”

“Fine, you have here many more offers for new roles and even another shooting for National Geographic.”

Hearing this, Yibo immediately grabbed the latters. 

It was what interested him the most. These hobbies were his favourites. The exciting trips to the wild nature for hiking, climbing, ice climbing, exploring the wilderness, diving in the sea. It was his life-saver and he loved it more than his motorcycle or even his casual lovers. Yes, he had them.

“I am sure you will like it,” Yue replied with a cheerful smile. “By the way, you have never told me about your meeting with Zhan. Did it go well?”

Yibo realised they never talked about it. He was not very willing to share his memories and he had time just to grab the mail and run away again. But it was at least professional to say something now.

Yibo was still looking into the document with information about the offered project. It was more a sort of the project ala Indiana Jones or Lost tomb series but it definitely grabbed his attention. Finally, he looked at Yue who was waiting for his response. 

“It was …  a nice meeting with an old friend,” he answered easily.

“Did he accept you well? Well, he probably did when he is asking you for cooperation now.”

Yibo’s lips twitched. “We were just remembering the old times and our mutual drama. Nothing more. Now, I will have to go. I am staying here these days but book me an air ticket to Henan, Čeng-Čou for monday, please.”

Yibo was, in contrast to Zhan, a good liar. 

She just nodded and said goodbye, watching how his back disappeared in the doors. 

The next two days, Yibo spent all day dancing again and after the dance he went to the restaurant for dinner with several friends. It was raining again. His bodyguard was always near him. 

The restaurant was full of visitors who were chattering at the tables or ordering their dishes. He couldn't even miss people talking about Zhan and the new drama he was going to shoot. It was already public news.

Yibo was in a good mood discussing his hobbies and travelling with his friends. But not for a long time because his mobile phone started to ring again, it was Yue. 

“Yes?” he asked after receiving it. 

“It must have been a very fruitful meeting with Zhan. They really care for you. You have got another mail in the office.”

Yibo was dumbstruck. 

“What do you mean?” he asked. 

“You should see this. It is not only from Jeffrey, it is from local biggest producing studio.”

Of course, Yibo knew about this organization. It was not the first time they would produce some drama or movie he was playing in. But Yue never reacted like this. What was going on that she was so mysterious again? Though, he just shrugged and sighed for now.

”Well, I understand, but scan it and send it to me. I can’t go there. I mean it this time.” 

He suspected her to curse but there was no chance he would change his mind. 

“Ok then, I will send it. But think about it. This is not something you should ignore...”

Yibo was so surprised that he opened the e-mail the moment he received it. When he read it, his eyes widened and his brows rose high. 

Well, Yue was right. This offer was more than just generous but he thought they didn’t understand his stance. When he refused, it was not because of the money. Though, the producer was asking him for a visit and it was something he would be willing to accept. After all, a good offer would still bring him many benefits.

But it was just one side of the coin. The other was Zhan. And he started to be angry with him, because he was forced into something he didn’t want to do

Why? What was he thinking about? 

Though it was not all. 

The other day he rode to the city centre to play tennis after training at the local tennis centre in Beijing. When they finished he took a shower and went for a drink with his friend but he was distracted by the reactions of people around. 

He was used to them staring and taking photos or asking for autograms but there were still a lot of people that were not interested more than just looking at him and continuing their usual business. But this time, everyone was looking and gossiping behind his back. Suddenly a message arrived. 

Look at the news. And don't miss the meeting today. 

It was Yue again. 

That day was the meeting at the studio. But it didn't bother him much. He quickly looked at social media and the internet but he already knew what he would see there. 

So they really leaked it. It must have been them. But it was something he could have expected after all. They have just felt a good catch. 

Meantime, his friend had already seen it too. 

“You are going to play in a drama with Zhan again?” he asked, apparently excited. Something thrilling was happening and it was enough for many people to vivify from their everyday routines. 

But Yibo just shook his head. “I haven't accepted it yet.”

“Even so, just the fact that the offer came is sensational. I haven't seen you even talk to each other for years… You seemed to be such good friends. And then. Mostly no contact at all and everyone just speculated why…”

Yibo just grimaced. And did they have to know why? Who really had the right to know anything about it? 

He was almost anxious in securing his privacy and in his later years he actually never liked rumours. Especially those that were considering his family and his private life. He couldn't help not rolling his eyes but he did so just in his mind. His expression didn't change even a bit.

So this again? Yes, they didn't talk, meet or … everything. How attentive from people that they have observed all their behaviour so perfectly. Were they some research mice? Will he have to listen to this for weeks now?

But people were just curious from their nature. And women even more than men. He, as a public person, could hardly do something about it. 

And his friend was curious as well.

“Can I have a question?”

Yibo's lips twitched. “NO.”

But his friend, grinning, still asked. “There was some gossip about you and Zhan going for years. Someone should have already asked about it…. That you and him had actually had some affair and that there was a kiss that has never been published.”

Yibo just deeply inhaled. 

“You really didn't have to ask. But when you have just done it, then I will tell you the truth. Unfortunately the most boring one. No, never, nothing.  The drama was just a brotherly drama. No matter what the original was. It was censored and there never was such intention.”

He had an urge to grin when he saw his friend's disappointed expression. 

“Not even a kiss in the toilets?”

Yibo grinned and shook his head. “No.”

“But it was said that some members of the crew saw you.”

“They hardly could when it never happened! Believe it or not.”

His friend nodded. 

He definitely expected something more exciting but the things were as they were. 

“And why didn't you see each other then? I even saw some videos where Zhan offered to meet you sometimes but you didn't want to. You said there was no need.”

Yibo didn't know if to laugh or cry. Why the hell was it so important? But he thought about it and that day he really didn't. He needed a break … for obvious reasons. But they also did it not to nourish some gossip. It started with Zhan and the intention was to make things seem like they are not going to meet because there already was a lot of gossip at that time. Though, they still were a sort of friends and it was before the incident happened. After it, their paths divided completely and they focused only on their upcoming roles and projects. 

Well, till he himself changed it and it ended up like this. He even was not sure if he should celebrate or cry.

It was enough of fun-time and he had to move again. There was the meeting waiting.  

He headed to the arranged location in the city centre. A huge building with the residence of the company. 

They led him to the doors number 26, an office of executive producer Čao Ming. The office was very plainly decorated but there was a huge window across the whole wall on the north with a splanded view into the city. The room was also well-lit. The landscape attracted Yibo's attention. 

“This is stunning," he couldn't help not to praise it. 

The producer smiled. “Isn't it? I love it too.”

He welcomed him, introduced himself and asked Yibo to sit down. 

“Mr. Wang, you have received an offer to participate in our upcoming project. But I, with a broken heart, heard that you  have refused. I have invited you today to talk about your reasons and  discuss conditions for your acceptance.”

Yibo smiled. “Mr. Čao, I have refused due to my very busy schedule. It doesn't fit into my plans and I am not willing.”

“I understand, but your participation is tremendously important for us and I am really asking you to reconsider. We are willing to make significant concessions in your favour. I respect your occupancy but the crew can take consideration even to this. And we are even able to pay you well. You are a very important person in the entertainment industry. Just tell, what you want.”

Yibo looked at the producer with pretended indifference. “Then, tell me, what you can offer first.”

The producer lifted his hand with a document listing all benefits and payment. “What do you say about this? We will give you a payment you haven't even dreamed about, we will also pay you comfortable accommodation and all costs for travelling in case you will have more responsibilities to deal with. And the schedule of shooting would be adjusted to your requests as much as possible.”

Yibo was surprised when he saw the number in the agreement. He didn't expect such a lucrative treatment. This was already much more than other actors would get. But he didn't lie when he said that it is still not enough. Even when the producer, Zhan and his own company persuaded him to accept, what was the price to go do something he knew would just complicate his life? In his eyes, the price was higher than the skyscraper. Finally, he shook his head and simply said, “I am sorry.”

But to his surprise, the producer interrupted him, gave him the pen and asked, “Then, write your own conditions and price.”

Yibo was dumbfounded, though, he didn't want to complicate it. He thought for a while and wrote the number. When the producer saw it, his lips twitched. He admired Yibo's boldness. 

“Very well then. I think even this will be possible. I will send you our decision as soon as possible. You are quite a thought negotiator, Mr. Wang. But I am not surprised. I actually like you.”

Yibo feebly smiled but he immediately adopted a poker face that could hardly tell the producer if he also liked him. And it was fine because what followed he didn't like at all. 

“Though, I have another request,” the producer continued. “You know there are some stories being told about you and Zhan. It would be profitable if we tried to nourish them a bit.”

Yibo froze. Even his proclamation we tried was too impertinent.

“I don't understand what you are talking about,” he replied. 

But the producer just shook his head. 

“You don't understand? Don't misunderstand me then. I don't imply they are true, Mr. Wang. To tell the truth I don't even care. But people like stories and if it will be there, it will mean a huge marketing boom. Just do this here and that there to let people talk, attract their attention to you both and to the drama. Help it a little. Can you?”

Huh, seriously?

Yibo could see that he was, unfortunately, serious. But he hated how he was selling them just like they were some commodity. His lips twitched, making the impression that he was quite satisfied. But he definitely was not willing to agree to something like that. 

“No, I can't.”

He didn't care if they would cast someone else instead. These methods were something he hated. And he was disgusted that they even asked. The producer was disappointed but he didn't push him. He knew it wouldn't work. 

“Is that all?” Yibo asked with pretended calmness. 

“Yes, if we consider the conditions possible, we will send you the agreement in one week. Check the mail. The rest of the instruction will already come from the crew.” 

Then he stood up and lifted his hand to Yibo. 

Junior said goodbye and left.

When he was later going home, he was already tired from that media mania and how everyone was asking him about the drama and Zhan. Not to mention the request he had heard a while ago. He was even thinking about going somewhere to nature, far away from all the population and everyday bustle. But he still had some work to finish and decided to stay home. 

Finally, he picked the phone and tried to call Zhan, but senior didn't answer. 

So he played hiphop music instead and, to get all the stress out, started to train his dance choreography at home. He just took his phone and called to order some Chinese food when the telephone rang. It was Zhan. 

Yibo didn't call him more than just once for more reasons but first, he was quite angry before and he didn't want to sound too livid. But he managed to get rid of frustration with dancing and he felt much better now. Still, he wasn't in the mood for a friendly chat with Zhan. That was the reason why the only greeting Zhan got was a direct question “Why did you do that?”

When Yibo told Zhan what he had on his mind and found out Zhan’s reasons, he became a bit more calm. But believing that Zhan didn't tell his director about his stance just because he was too excited and he wanted him in the drama? No, he was not that naive. It might even be true but Yibo knew that he did this all intentionally because he wanted to shift things somewhere else as they talked about before. And when Yibo refused to cooperate now, he did so on his own. One part of him couldn't blame him but the other was livid. Yibo didn't know how Zhan felt about it all, he even didn't know about the portrait that was hanging across his bed in his bedroom. Zhan held these feelings inside so far and in communication with Yibo mostly behaved like a colleague and a friend. And Yibo was more and more pissed off. 

The junior was sincerely curious if the producing studio would accept his conditions. It would mean that he would be the best paid artist in the whole crew. There was no way he would be willing to tell anyone how much he asked for. But seeing the popularity of the drama and him playing in it was so high, that he was almost sure of that - till it finally came black and white. He couldn't help not to smirk when he was reading the announcement.

It was his responsibility to be seen as a global brand ambassador not only on fashion shows but also other events so when Yue called him the last week in September to participate in an upcoming special occasion he was not surprised at all. This time he went in a stylish cloth of the brand LOEWE. Bordo turtleneck, black elegant jacket with silver brooch and black pants made him look exceptionally charmin as usual. His longer hair was combed backwards, only several curly strings were framing his hansome face and gave him a bit of a rascal look. 

He was sitting by the table with several actors and directors of his movies and dramas but the space was filled with many less or more famous faces that were lusting for his company. They were mostly just curious about upcoming projects, often starting conversations only to find out what his upcoming drama should be. They were actually interested only in one, but Yibo mostly didn't tell them. It will be sooner or later official but he was not willing to talk about it there.

Yibo sneered and leaned to the actor and his friend from Being a hero, Chan Xiao, whispering something into his ear as they both laughed. 

The program finally started. 

There were a lot of performances but Yibo was not among the performers this time. After about an hour he was already bored and headed to the toilets. He was nodding to many people around, a lot of them knowing from mutual cooperation and others at least from the screen or ceremony awards. There were many handsome actors and beautiful girls as always except Zhao Liying, his colleague from the Legend of Fay. She was wearing a lovely, princess-like pink and white evening dress and was standing next to the table together with another actor, Yuwen Yue whose acting skills admired even Zhan. 

Yibo greeted them and they returned it with a polite smile but Liying was already watching something else and her eyes traveled among Yibo and entrance doors as well as eyes of many other visitors who suddenly became more attentive. It was so strange that Yibo looked in the direction as well, just to see an athletic frame of a very handsome and charming man with a nonchalant smile enter the hall. 

Zhan was looking around, nodding to several colleagues but he didn't notice Yibo who automatically slowed down. His face became stern, though, he quickly composed himself and continued to walk, almost hoping that he would manage to pass unseen. 

Though, exactly the moment he was about five metres away Zhan looked in his direction and when he saw him, he apparently froze. 

They were standing there looking at each other, observed with many people around and several paparazzi who didn't hesitate to take out their cameras. 

Another “first” was reportedly on the way. Before, it was the first cooperation, now, it was the first meeting on some event before cameras and in public. What was going to be next?

Zhan was caught by surprise and he couldn't be blamed because he simply didn't expect Yibo there at all. But he was invited to perform in the next part of the program and Yibo didn't know about it. Zhan was actually a substitute for another artist who couldn't come. 

Junior composed himself, nodded and smiled. Zhan, who woke up from the surprise, did the same. Then, they continued in their own way and none of them even looked around. 

Though, Zhan was dumbstruck and he was actually immediately interested if Yibo left. But he didn't have any other option than wait and find out.

Yibo didn't leave.

It took him about ten minutes to come back and join a group of people staying next to the table with refreshment. 

In these minutes, Zhan joined the company of his fellow colleagues to have a chat but he was looking for Yibo all the time and when he came back he decided to act. He walked away, followed by the eyes of the rest of the group and slowly moved to junior. But Yibo didn't expect him there and flinched the moment he noticed. His first thought was to go away but then, he realised that they are almost colleagues again. It would be silly to act like that. So he sighed and let Zhan approach him. 

“I need to talk to you,” Zhan whispered shily.

“You are already talking to me,” Yibo simply replied with a faint smile. He wanted to say In front of everyone but changed his mind. There was no point in reminding it. Not that Zhan himself wouldn't know. 

Senior smiled and looked at him with an observing gaze, scrutinizing his face. “I heard you have accepted the offer after all, is that true?”

Yibo nodded. Zhan couldn't hide a short satisfied smile that even Yibo didn't overlook. Though, there was a shadow of doubt behind. 

“But you have refused first,” he continued. “Did you accept because of the benefits?” 

So this is what really interests you , Yibo thought. He turned gaze up to him but he remained silent. 

Zhan, on the other hand, became uncomfortable and impatient. “What did they offer you?” he asked.

Junior smiled. “I won't tell you.”

Zhan looked dispirited. “Is the only reason you joined the money?” his voice was uncertain and his face serious. Yibo noticed it. 

“And even if yes, what about it?” he countered, studying his expression. “Don’t forget it was you who helped it with your manipulation, Lao-Xiao.” 

A moment of tension exchanged Zhan's deep sigh. He was dumbstruck. 

Yibo took a piece of refreshment and tasted it. It was very good. He noticed that many people were looking in their direction and with a simple gesture warned Zhan.

“Lao-Wang, are you angry with me?” Zhan asked with even lower voice. Several paparazzii came again to take some photos of them from a distance. They were always under the sight of others. 

“I would have the right to be angry after what you have done,” Yibo said in a low voice as well.

The senior deeply inhaled. Even he looked at their surroundings. But he leaned his head closer to Yibo, ignoring them. 

“I did it because I wanted you in the team. You have always had the chance to say no. How long are you going to punish me now?” 

Yibo held his breath, but there was something strangely thrilling in what Zhan had just said. 

“I haven't even started yet,” he replied, amused. 

Zhan gasped.

“Since when are you so cold-hearted?” he asked partly in a joke. But it impressed Yibo. He didn't want to look like that but he himself had to acknowledge that he might now. 

“And since when you act frivolously and don't listen at all?” he replied, this time looking up at his companion’s face. 

Zhan's cheeks flushed. 

He felt a bit dismayed but even though some part of him wanted to hide it, he still said it aloud. “Maybe, since my life is not what it used to be and I can't concentrate at all,” he replied.

Yibo, who was just lifting his hand to grab a glass of spirit, stopped the motion and looked at Zhan.

“You can't concentrate?” He was waiting for further explanation but it didn't reach his ears so he continued, “Zhan-ge, I am really not sure what is going on now. Did something happen?”

You happened, Xiao Zhan thought and grimaced. He couldn't help it even though he was not exactly a newbie in the matters of love. But this was new for him or it was simply because Yibo had a strange effect on him. He was distracted like hell. But he didn't say his thoughts aloud. Not by chance, in such a place.  Yibo had enough of him talking in the riddles and moved on. 

“Then, how are you going to shoot?” he asked quite seriously. 

It was a good question. 

The truth was, Zhan didn't think about those things yet. But before he could say a word, someone came for the junior and led him away.

He stayed alone by the table with refreshment, put some pieces on a plate, took a glass of spirit and wanted to leave but someone had stopped him.

“Seeing you with Mr. Wang like this, it is almost like a miracle. Fans will surely celebrate the chance to see you cooperate again.”

Zhan smiled but he was surprised. It was not officially confirmed yet that he was going to play there. How did the man know it? “And you are?” he asked curiously. 

“Oh, I am sorry for such inconvenience. Ming Feng, I am from the national movie company.” he lifted his hand to Zhan, who accepted it. The man was elegant and good looking. His small lips curved into a wide smile and his deep eyes were sparkling. 

Zhan just aaahed and smiled politely.

“Nice to meet you.”

“I have admired you for a long time, Mr. Xiao. Your acting skills are exquisite.”

“Ah, thank you, I am doing what I can,” he replied and chuckled. 

He definitely did. There were a lot of hours with just preparation for the role when he wanted to play it well and it didn't stop there. Even honing many other skills like martial arts and horse riding took a lot of effort. There really was a lot to do and he was a very diligent man. 

The man in front of him looked around and found Yibo with his black eyes. Zhan followed the direction of his gaze. 

“You and him are the gold of today's kinematography. It is fine you have another chance to cooperate on the set.”

Zhan nodded. 

“But I still have to ask, what do you think is needed to sell the drama?”

“I am sure there are many verified and well functional means, sir,” Zhan replied. “I would start with well done trailers and posters and finish with some interesting interviews.”

The man grinned. “Of course, it is a necessity. But real success needs more original and unconventional means. We have already told Yibo that you should try to benefit from the rumours to get people involved.”

Zhan froze. “What rumours?”

The man gave him a meaningful look. “Those rumours.”

Zhan's face hardened. “We are friends and colleagues, there is no need to support any rumours." He was not a good liar but this time he said it with utter determination.

“What do you think that people like, Mr. Zhan? They like more spicy stories than just a friendship. They love emotions. Strong emotions.”

Zhan didn't know if to laugh or cry. He had a feeling that strong emotions, both positive and negative, were exactly what was on the way between them but this man definitely didn't have to know.

He was from the branch and he knew these methods. But that was exactly what he didn't like at all. Especially after what happened in the past. If he was distracted before, this conversation made him perfectly sensible. He remained silent and adopted a professional expression to send him away. 

“We won't pretend just to juggle people around to gain some followers on social media, Mr. Ming. I believe the viewership will be high even without it,” he said a bit curtly. 

“Well, if you think so. I hope I didn't offend you, we won't force anyone. After all, one is enough. Good luck during filming, Mr. Xiao.”

The man bowed and walked away, leaving Zhan alone.  

Zhan looked at Yibo, who was still invested in some conversation. What did the man mean with the words One is enough ? Would Yibo agree to such a request? There were many marketing techniques that were built on evoking misleading impressions just to make the story more interesting and better for sale. Bold photoshoots were among them. But he would rather avoid this this time. As he said in the apartment in Hong Kong, everything should stay behind closed doors. They were just friends for the rest of the world. 

Zhan felt uncomfortable about this. After a while, Yibo finally returned but a change in Zhan's expression was apparent. He was shortly scrutinizing him before he asked. 

“Something happened?”

Zhan hesitated. 

He was thinking about asking him about it all but it felt embarrassing to ask about something so personal now when they were in dispute and Yibo was apparently angry with him. After a moment of hesitation he simply asked. 

“You are very careful about your privacy, right?...  You wouldn't say or do anything that could endanger it?” 

Yibo widened his eyes in surprise. “I definitely wouldn't,” he added. 

But he had that suspicious expression of a person who was thinking about why he was even talking about something like that. Zhan knew him too well to know that the junior meant it. Yibo was still confused but then, it occurred to him. 

“If they asked you the same question they asked me, about spreading rumours, I said firmly no.” 

His behaviour was still somehow distant but Zhan saw a tension from their long seclusion behind it. He smiled. 

“Fine. Me too.”

Yibo nodded but he didn't want to dive in any more. “What about your concentration then?” he asked instead. No matter what was between them, he was still caring.

Zhan held his breath for a while, hesitating. But he was staring at Yibo in his sexy bordo turtleneck and black jacket and his pulse started to pound more quickly. He had a feeling he would need a lecture of self-control. Still only simple words “ It will be fine. I will deal with it ” left his sensual mouth curved with a small but beautiful and seductive smile. 

Yibo narrowed his eyes. “It’s simple. Just don't think about things that distract you.” 

Zhan sneered. It was easily said but sometimes hardly done. At least for him. How could he not think about Yibo when he was so handsome and he was seeing him everywhere. But the little junior never seemed to have any problem with it. And he had an idea. 

“Our ice prince and master of self-control could have some clever advice, after all…”

“Don't call me that,” Yibo objected, “I am an actor, I just play what is in the script but I played many cheerful roles as well. I don't like this mark. Don't use it.”

Zhan chuckled, nevertheless, he looked around and when he saw everyone was focused on their own business he inclined closer. He even didn't notice when he actually started to flirt.

“Ok … but, Yibo-ge, could you give me some private lectures, please? It would be funn … ” 

The expression, smile, his sparkling eyes. It was exactly that ‘never' flirting Zhan from the times of shooting The Untamed. Though he didn't finish because this time, his monologue interrupted a short but strong stub of pain as Yibo poked him in his ribs so much that it hurt. It made him sober up. 

“AUCH!” Zhan yelped too loudly and made several people look around. 

He narrowed his eyes into angry fissures and smiled apologetically to others, massaging the painful place, while Yibo averted his face and shortly closed his eyes with his expression strained.

“Yibo, be more gentle with your senior!” Zhan countered quietly in reproach. 

But the junior just narrowed his eyes.

“No,” he simply said. 

“No?” Zhan repeated, insulted. 

Though Yibo just gave him a warning look. 

“And to your question. I haven't got time for such patty things. Just call for some coach,” he replied shamelessly, turned around and left. 

Zhan paled and his chin dropped down as he was looking at his disappearing back. 

The era of his usual question Yibo, are you even a human? was inevitably back. But he never thought it would be easy. 

He adopted his usual professional smile and returned to society as nothing happened.  But deep inside, he was already weaving a plan on how to meet Yibo again. And talk with him before the shooting would start. 

Chapter Text

There were many talented people in the world. But even talent without diligent training was usually not enough. It took long years of hard work to really learn something and excel in it and even more time to successfully turn it into a thriving business or job generating high income. When someone had risen to such starry heights they usually wanted this standard to remain forever, not to fall down. They were also ready to deal with every challenge and face any rivalry just to keep the eminence of their creations steady or even make it better. 

Zhan was developing his artistic skills for decades and he was so good at it that he later became an elite even in the marketing world. His acting skills also rose so high that they were celebrated even by critiques from all over the world. The years of very hard work finally turned into fruits and brought him not only fame but it made him one of the richest artists in the country. And he continued to rise even higher and higher. 

Wang Yibo was not much different but besides acting and singing, his hobbies and skills were mostly something else. Yibo was not a painter and for advertising had a marketing team. But he was multitalented in many other artistic or sport branches. 

Zhan, on the contrary, never learned to dance. But he was excellent in design and marketing or PR projects. His studio made his own adverts and it actually saved him a lot of money. He belonged among the best. They both became real superstars in their country and their fame started to spread even behind its borders. But lately, things started to change. 

No matter what Zhan wanted, there were not many occasions for him and Yibo to see each other in the upcoming time. He even sent him some messages just to say hello and ask him to meet but it always ended up the same way. 

Yibo was always polite and his hostile tone faded as the dark sky in the morning. 

But he couldn't. 

He didn't have time. 

Wang Yibo was overwhelmed with his own activities and Zhan with his as well.  

Yibo's productivity was breathtaking as always. After finishing his dance performance in Čeng-Čou, he mostly focused on preparation of another dance choreography for New Year’s eve as well as new songs and many other gigs except shooting his new movie and work for National Geographic. The whole internet was permanently full of his photos from both advertisements and shooting in the most adventurous places of his country. And his promo started to make such thrilling waves among the people that even master of the craft Xiao Zhan started to wonder how he was doing it. 

It was an everyday topic even in his studio but mostly hidden - till one day. 

His several colleagues were sitting assembled by the computer with their noses stuck to the screen, watching some videos. When Zhan came closer, some of them even flinched but they couldn't hide what they were watching. There were several Yibo's new promo videos for both his movie and companies he worked for as a global branch ambassador. 

Zhan was dumbstruck. He even didn't know why it moved him so much. But he was looking at them too angry and confused. 

“What are you doing? You haven't got enough work?” he asked sternly. “Really, focus on what is important…”

But Bao shook his head. 

“No, we are just looking for inspiration.”

He meant it well but it made Zhan even more annoyed. 

“You are looking for inspiration? You are professionals and you should look for inspiration from artists who are even better than you, we all are,” he said.

All of them, Bao, Yuxi, Meimei and Chan just changed looks till one of them, Yuxi, the one of the girls who was watching Yibo on his trip to Paris some time ago boldly said, “But that is what we do!”

She was almost as open minded as Yibo and even though he didn't mind it usually, this time, it was different. All the situations of the last days have already enraged him so much, that his eyes narrowed and his hands started to slightly shake. 

Though, Bao, a mediator, saw his psychological state and came to cheer him on. 

“She didn't mean it like that. Our work is excellent. But his promo also got significantly better. And we were just curious. Nothing else.”

Zhan made a cup of tea and came back to the office. 

“Fine, play it,” he said.

Bao started the video. It was a supermodern type of promo for a new car model that was highly reminiscent of a movie like Mission Impossible with all its technologies and breathtaking adventurous shots, suitable for cascaders. But Zhan had a feeling that Yibo shooted it all himself. In any case, he looked there really stunningly. 

After a while, Zhan couldn't watch it any more and easily stopped it. Everyone looked at him confused. 

“There was more!” Yuxi objected. 

“We are professionals and we are doing original creations,” Zhan objected, “You are supposed to be creative wizards. Focus on your own work and don't copy the work of others! That is what it is all about!”

All of them returned to their desks dispirited and Yuxi even offended. But Zhan couldn't help it. He was out of sorts. It didn't take even ten minutes for him to realize that he was too harsh and strict at them. But he was not able to go and apologise, now.

He pretended to work for some time but couldn't focus, this time for a very different reason than before. And when he later resigned he stood up and left the work. 

On the way home many thoughts occupied his mind. 

When he came home he opened his computer, found Yibo's videos as well and played it. Not because he would be looking for inspiration. He was trying to find out what exactly had changed so much. What was different? He watched his videos and photos and couldn't find it. It was not in quality of the video, even in the vision, an idea. Was that Yibo's makeup artist and stylist. Was that an expression? What exactly made his promo so good? 

But he couldn't find the answer and he was frustrated.  

Zhan had the feeling that till that night in Hong Kong, everything might not be perfect, but it worked. And it worked well. But since that day, everything in his life was upside down. Maybe, he was hasty in his judgment, after all. Till that time there was not even a time for real rivalry because Zhan never actually followed Yibo's activities. He intentionally avoided him. They had their own paths that went in very different directions. But it was not already true now and not only him but even people around started to see it. They started to compare them even more. But it wouldn't be a problem if Zhan himself wouldn't start to do so as well. 

Though, he did. 

He was sort of competing with Yibo as well in his subconscious and Yibo's self-assurance provoked him. And now, he was even intervening into his own branch where he was always better. It shook his ego and made him clunch his fists. 

Maybe it wouldn't be like that if Yibo wouldn't ignore him. Maybe, he wouldn’t begin with it if he could at least say that they were friends, on the same boat. But he hasn't had that feeling lately. And his mind was conflicted.

After some time he stopped with any efforts to meet or even text Yibo. They temporarily went their own paths again but he finally considered it a better outcome because the space till their mutual future cooperation helped him to significantly clear his mind. He followed Yibo's advice not to think too much about things that distracted him by even putting his portrait away from his bedroom and focused on all his upcoming projects and his future colleagues instead.

He started to focus on preparing new adverts for his customers with his huge portrait on the posters that were dominating whole department stores. 

But soon, another advert came from Yibo's production and it might be even more compelling but, first of all, it appeared near the one from Zhan just like it wanted to compete and overpower his glory. So Zhan came with something else and it was the best promo till another one appeared - belonging to Yibo. It was probably just a coincidence but sometimes, it didn't look like that. It worked so for quite a long time and when people couldn't talk about seeing them together, they were at least amused by their mutual competition. Till one day when Yibo made it blast out loud. 

When some of many reporters asked him about his last promo and compared it to Zhan, Yibo openly said to the media:

Zhan's latest promo for Bowen’s gem was really awesome. But my promo for Swarovski was much more appealing.

It created such a media mania that Zhan couldn't help not to adequately react and all the nation went wild. 

Everyone was talking about Yibo and Zhan but in a very different context. Zhan's fans even talked out loud against Yibo and it ignited a mutual fight between their fans that both of the actors had to deal with. 

Though, if their producing company asked them to support some particular rumours their intention was buried with just one spark because there were hardly many fans who believed there was something more than professional competitive relations among them besides the most loyal fans who never changed their minds.

After some time of things going in different ways than everyone expected, the calendar showed the end of November and both Yibo and Zhan were preparing for the end of the year. 

Zhan had his important responsibilities that included especially the new drama. 

Many activities were already settled. The script was in development and it was in the hands of the team of professional script writers but it didn't mean he and the director were not involved. 

Also getting investment for the show was the easiest ever. The news of Yibo and Zhan playing with so famous actors like Yang Yang, Neo Hou, Diliraba and others were so sensational that no one refused to support the drama and there was enough financial resources to even effort such casting. It was something astonishing that made the drama unique even just because of that. 

The team also continued in choosing the rest of the casting. There were many prime actors, where some of them like Yang Yang, Diliraba and Neo Hou were casted in the beginning as well as Yibo and Zhan and the rest afterwards. In the middle of November, the names like Cheng Lei, Li HongYi, Ao Ruipeng, Xiao Yuliang, Tian Jiarui, Yang Mi, Meng ZiYi, Wang Hao Xuan, Gina Jin and Zuo Ye were casted into main, support or guest roles without an audition because they were well known and their qualities were verified. 

As an assistant director, the job for Zhan was very different from what he was used to. He spent much more time with the preparation of the drama and he reserved his schedule even for very profound exploration of skills and history of other actors. When he was talking with the director he came up with his own suggestion. 

“There are many very skilled actors but their nature predisposes them to certain roles if the result should be the best. Many of them coworked in the past and they work together perfectly, but…”

“But?” The director asked with his eyebrows raised. 

Zhan had his idea clear. There were to be two major sects in the kingdom. One was the Royal cultivator sect - more noble, orderly and subordinated to the king. But there was another sect that was independent, focused on the defence of the interests of the kingdom without direct royal intervention, and it was more unbridled, dominating and, in the eyes of some inhabitants of the kingdom and especially enemies, even unscrupulous and rough. The name of the sect was Canglang Zhai, as a symbol of its wild hearts. 

“I think that Li Hong Yi, Yang Yang, Ao Ruipeng, Chang Huasen and Neo Hou would work better with the Royal cultivator sect. Cheng Lei, Xiao Yuliang, Tian Jiarui, Zuo Ye, and Wang Hao Xuan with the independent Canglang Zhai cultivator sect. They all would work excellently in more mysterious and badass-like roles. Meng Zi Yi would also belong perfectly into the independent sect. Gina Jin, on the other hand, belongs more to the Royal sect. 

Cheng Lei and Tian Jiarui have worked together in the past and their cooperation is brilliant. There is also a breathtaking spark between Jiarui and Neo Hou which would serve very well in case of their rivalry between sects. Li Hong Yi and Yang Yang are excellent in the roles of responsible leaders and I would definitely put them into the Royalty sect. Chang Huasen proved he might play both good and bad guys but he has such an innocent nature when he plays good one that I think we should use it in the drama as well.”

“Very well, I agree so far," the director added. "I love Diliraba as Li Nianzhen's sister, she works well with Yibo's appearance and it will be an interesting and unique symbiosis.”

Zhan smiled and nodded. 

“... and I am excited that Xiao Yuliang agreed as he didn't shoot the dramas, he was more a theatre player lately,” he continued. 

Zhan nodded in agreement, “Aahh, yeh, he is so excellent. I am looking forward to seeing him. He is an awesome actor and looks so good in fight scenes.”

“But there is something we haven't decided yet. There is a role of Li Nianzhen's fiancee. I didn't have any specific tips but I would love to cast Li Qin. She is a brilliant actress and you both know her.”

Hearing this, Zhan utterly paled. He didn't know why but he didn't like it. 

“No,” he shook his head.

“No?” the director asked, confused. 

Zhan panicked.

“Not that I wouldn't like her, she is a brilliant actress, so, so good. I just don't agree with the role. I would cast her to the Royal sect, it needs more women and she showed in many roles that she could play such roles as well.”

Zhan was dumbstruck. He didn't count on casting her into this drama,  first of all. But he couldn't help it, he just couldn't bear putting Li Qing between him and Yibo. 

“Very well then. And who would you like to cast for the role then.”

Zhan froze. 

It was a very hard question as he found out. It definitely was not a result of some calculation and cunningness that he was, for a while, thinking about picking someone who was not attractive at all. But if there must have been someone like that, it should have been someone more mysterious and exotic. There was one actress that came to his mind. 

“I think Zhang Yuxi might be a good choice,” he replied.

The director furrowed his brows in contemplation for a while but it looked like he liked the idea. 

“You might be right. But I will still think about some alternatives. In every case, I will offer the roles to those actors as soon as possible. And then, we can prepare for the auditions to choose the rest of the crew. There is going to be a winter film festival soon in Macao. I thought we could make a meeting and see each other there. I am sure you still don't know everyone personally. Inviting Wang Yibo would probably come in vain but I hope you will come, you are my assistant, after all. 

Zhan smiled. “Of course I will.”

The notion about Yibo left him unmoved. 

“Fine so I think that all is settled for  now. Thank you for brainstorming and excellent cooperation. It is a real pleasure to work with you.”

Zhan just laughed. 

“Ha ha ha. It's an honor to work with you! I still have a lot to learn. It is so, so inspiring,” he replied in a good mood and they finally parted. 

After lunch he went back to his studio. All the colleagues were sitting by the mobile phone again and it was not hard to understand what they were doing. Though this time he was indifferent about it and he just grimaced in amusement. First of all, he decided to say sorry for his recent behaviour. His team was surprised but they accepted it and the mood immediately significantly rose. 

All of them apparently felt uncomfortable since the time of conflict and Zhan knew it. But he needed some time to think it through. 

“So, Zhan-ge, you won't be angry if we look at Yibo's videos any more? Because there is one new promo now.”

Zhan had an urge to roll his eyes but he controlled himself enough not to do it. He adopted an indifferent expression and said, 

“Ok, show us his miracle then!”

All the colleagues quickly moved to Yuxi. The promo was for another outdoor company and it was shooted in the mountains. It was apparent what Yibo was recently doing. But the composition and idea as well as the  production and design of the promo were really admirable. It was so engaging that even Zhan could hardly take his eyes off. 

Still, he couldn't help it. 

“Well, so what is so stunning about it?” he asked after a while. 

“It’s just cool ,” Yuxi immediately shot her answer.

“Yeh, not only the video, but … well, everything.”

Zhan rolled his eyes and didn't even try to hide it this time. “Of course it is thrilling when he is climbing the mountains and doing adrenalin sports there. It is also the adventurous vibe that makes it interesting for others. But we are not going to climb to the top of the rock to compete with him, are we? If you like it so much, find something thrilling yourself!”

Everyone looked at him surprised and almost afraid just like they expected him to want them to go and do impossible things. But Zhan just sneered and went to his computer. 

“Huh, It was just a joke, guys. If you saw your expression… Just do what you are good at,” he explained and made everyone more relieved. 

But he was right and they knew it. Yibo and Zhan were different as well. Yibo was doing exciting and risky activities that were thrilling for people around. That was one of the reasons why his PR was often so good. But Zhan focused on usual adverts. 

Professional and elegant, inducing peace, relaxation and sometimes passion but not thrilling excitement or a challenge. Though, he found out that he was actually completely ok with it. 

“And what about this, his photos… They are so...”

Zhan just sighed and sat heavily into the chair. 

“Ok, ok, ok… huh, just stop it!” he objected and shook his head. “You are just like teens who entered high school - Oooh, he is soo handsome, oooh,” he said, adopting a girl's voice. 

Bao started to laugh. 

“They are girls, they are in love with Yibo,” he replied teasingly.

Zhan rolled his eyes again.

“You!” Mei replied. “Who is in love here? I just admire his work!”

“But who doesn't,” Yuxi joined the conversation. “Not only work, even his lifestyle is so attractive.”

Zhan looked at them in disbelief and pouted his lips, “Hahaha, if you love workoholic who would never find time for you then go and marry him,” he said wryly. Too much wryly. 

Mei curiously looked at Yuxi and Bao. 

Then, she inclined closer to Zhan. 

“But you are also working a lot, Zhan-ge.”

“Not that much,” he insisted and when he saw their doubtful looks, he explained. 

“I always pay attention to my health to family and friends. I always find enough time for relaxation and fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Yibo has been much more focused on success lately. Maybe it is the reason why he started to indulge in nature so much now. But it is still mostly just a form of active and often dangerous kind of relaxation. He is just like that.”

Zhan remembered one memory when he was sitting on a boat during shooting The Untamed and he noticed Yibo's sore legs from dancing. He told him to use protectors but Yibo didn't like them. He might at least use it afterwards. But there were simply people who were always pushing limits and didn't even know the pain. Zhan was the kind of person who didn't have the need to torment himself like that. 

Yuxi seemed to be lost in her thoughts. 

“But some people like that sort of relaxation more,” she said with a smile on her lips. 

It looked like exactly that kind of person was the one who had the key to her heart.

They might be quite compatible with Yibo after all, Zhan thought , his lips twitched but he didn't reply.

He was still studying the photos which were, once again, arousing strong emotions. There was something special about them. Something stunning in his expression. It was like he was trying to understand the biggest mystery of the world. 

Yuxi victoriously loughed. 

“See, even you are lost for words! But I understand you, that sweet tenderness and transcendent charm…”

Zhan looked at her dumbfounded, unable to find words but then he sneered, “Ahhah, I am just thinking, don't be such a baby!”

“But even you can't deny that he is putting into those photos something extraordinary. They are absolutely unique.”

Zhan pouted his lips. “He is just very photogenic.”

Bao furrowed his brows. “Maybe, it is because he is doing it with real love and engagement. And that is what makes his photos unique.”

“Woooow,” Mei answered and looked at Zhan who frowned.

“What?,” he asked, offended. “What? Do you want to say that I don't enjoy the shooting enough? Nonsense.”

But even though they had an answer immediately on their tongues, no one said it aloud. Though, they didn't have to.

“You!” Zhan said half in a joke, laughing, “You bunch of ungrateful persons! I will show you who I am! Now go and return to your work!”

They chuckled and went back but Bao still looked at Zhan and whispered. 

“And why should we be like him?” Bao said. “We have got our own style.”

Zhan nodded. 

“Of course. And that is how it should be.”

After another four hours Zhan finally left the office and exchanged it for something more pleasant and relaxing. But when he went out on a sunny day, he felt a vibration in his pocket. It was a message from Chiang. 

We are politely inviting you for a special introductory meeting that will be held on 5th Saturday 2026 in the Millennium congress centre in Macao. 

He smiled . 

The day of the meeting was in just one week. He opened the diary and marked the date and time, 

Meeting, Millennium CC, Macao, 

and left.

Wang Yibo just returned from his 14 days long trip to Thailand when the same message reached him as well. 

But he immediately knew that he couldn't go. There were already several other activities in his diary planned except his winter trip to Paris for another fashion show. He was supposed to stay there for four days starting at 5th and finishing at 8th December. 

He was in the middle of unpacking things and preparing his old and worn clothes for laundry in his apartment in Beijing when someone knocked on the door. 

Yibo was surprised because he didn't expect anyone but he stepped away from the baggage and went to open the door. When he looked out, the director Jeffrey Chiang was standing there. Yibo couldn't help not to stare at him with his mouth dropped for a while. But the visitor gave him a polite smile. 

“Yibo, I am sorry to disturb you but I came in an important matter considering our future drama. May I go in?” 

“Of course, I am sorry for my unkindness, enter please,” Yibo asked him too nicely, bowed and opened the doors to let him pass. 

“Sir, can I offer you some drink, water or coffee?” 

Yibo was very polite, especially to people who were already respectable due to their age. This man was the age of his father and he was his boss in some point of view. It meant something. 

“Thank you very much, lad, but there is no need.”

Yibo led him to the living room and asked him to sit down. It looked like the man was finding the words to say what he needed. But when he noticed his baggage, he smiled. 

“Did you go for some adventurous journey again?”

Yibo smiled. 

“Yes, but that was more a work trip than some fun this time.”

“I understand. Well, let’s come to the reason why I came. You have probably received my invitation. Are you going?”

“I am very sorry but I am too preoccupied."

Chiang nodded though he looked quite disappointed. “Yibo, I actually came to ask you for cooperation. In December we are going to Europe to look around and find appropriate places for shooting with Xiao Zhan. We will also deal with some foreign producers about future co-production.”

Yibo nodded but he wanted to go directly to the matter. 

“Thank you for informing me, but how does it involve me?” 

“You are right now going to Europe and you are staying in Paris till 8th December. I am asking you to make time and travel with us for several upcoming days. We will pick you up.”

Yibo was dumbfounded. He just chuckled and opened his mouth to refuse. But the director interrupted him. “This is not an offer. It is requested in case you want to continue to be a part of the crew.”

Yibo was lost for words.

He was just looking at the director, hardly understanding. But because he didn't reply, Chiang continued. 

“I have a good reason for my demand. The time spent together should actually test if you and Zhan are even able to work together and continue in this project,” he sighed. “Yibo, I don't know what is between you and Zhan. I almost thought you were friends when he suggested you for the role but it might be just his professional judgment. But. Your public clashes lately benefited no one and it disappointed all producers. Your too open competitionship managed to cause a dispute even among your fans. Such a situation shouldn't repeat itself. I know that your payment is very high. It is not even fair to your bro, to tell the truth. But I warn you that there is a clause in the contract that says that we can break off the cooperation if you endanger the filming progress and the success of the drama. And we will do that if needed.”

Yibo was silent.

“So, are you going to accept my request?”

Junior froze. It was the first time someone came to him with such reproach. But he knew that he significantly helped it. For the first time, he felt uncertain and down, with a stub of guilt. And it made him really reflect on his own actions. It was not impossible. He just needed to rearrange some gigs. At least for some time. After a while he nodded. 

“Yes, but just for three days.”

“Four,” the director insisted. 

Yibo sighed. “Fine, four.”

The director finally nodded with satisfaction. “I am very glad we found common ground, I am sure you will find it with Zhan too. Just give it some try.”

He bowed and went through the doors.

Yibo would rather left this notice without a reply. But he was dispirited about it all. He closed the doors behind his visitor and leaned against the doors, thinking. But no matter how much he would like to, he couldn't find a single reason to think that Chiang was not right. 

And so, he took his phone into his hand and found Yue's name in contacts to call her and deal with some changes in his upcoming program. 

Chapter Text

The restaurant in the famous congress centre in Macao was already full of visitors but Zhan was led by the host to a private saloon. Even though it was a separate room for special occasions it was so spacey that it could hold the ball. As a part of the movie festival centre it was apparently used for many different occasions, sometimes even projection.

When Zhan entered he recognised many famous faces. There were already Yang Yang with Diliraba Dilmurat, Tian Jiu Rui standing in one small group nearby. But other groups were chatting all over the space except Li Hong Yi, Ao Ruipeng, Chang Hua Sen and Neo Hou. 

Cheng Lei with Zuo Ye were standing by the bar and Wang Hao Xuan with Gina Jin were talking to the director. Yang Mi was just passing around him, entering the saloon for the first time as well as him. 

 She looked at him and sweetly smiled.

“Mr. Xiao, are you also not sure which group to choose?” 

Zhan chuckled. “Then, why even choose, we can have a chat together. At least, we will finally have a chance to get to know each other.”

 It was almost strange that even over quite a long time of his acting career, they never had an opportunity to play in the same drama. But they were meeting each other at award ceremonies.

 “Are you going to play the queen, after all?” Zhan asked.

“Yes, I didn't believe it that I am going to play the mother of Wang Yibo,” she chuckled and joked, “I didn't know I was that old.”

Zhan laughed. 

“Today's technologies are able to do miracles but I am sure you will still be a young and beautiful mother. Then, Diliraba will be your daughter."

“Yes, we were already joking about that.”

 Diliraba was just talking to Yang Yang, a very talented and very handsome actor she starred with in a drama You are my glory. She was 33 years old but she didn't look like that at all and the make-up artists and costume designers were able to make her appear as a teen. while Yang Mi was 38 years old but she looked more mature. 

 Diliraba was another woman Zhan never had a chance to cooperate with but many people wished to see them in the same drama. Well. They had the chance now. And they were even supposed to play a romantic role. Diliraba was a very beautiful and unique girl and it was very hard not to admire her. She was unusually charming and with her appeal regularly captivated all people in the country by her photos for magazines like Marrie Clare, Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue. But Yang Mi was also exceptionally beautiful and she always stunned with her refined taste in fashion. 

“You look so good today,” Zhan said not only from politeness. 

The woman smiled. “As well as you.”

Before he could reply, Diliraba suddenly came closer with her youthful smile and gently touched Yang Mi’s hand. 

“Mi, don’t steal handsome men only for yourself. Let's go and join us,” she said to them and winked at Zhan. Yang Mi grinned. She heard that trace of jealous provocation in her colleagues' tone. 

“Why not, we came to meet our future colleagues, after all. Lead the way,” she replied and went in the direction to Yang Yang. 

After a while the director asked for a silence and welcomed everyone by saying some introductional words before getting into debate with Zhan as well. 

Yang Yang bowed to Zhan and gave him his usual warm and cheerful smile but Tian Jia Rui was much more straightforward. 

“Here is our assistant director,” he addressed him, “I hoped I would see you here. The king of the screen and people’s hearts…” then, he lifted his hand. “Pleasure to meet you!”

Zhan chuckled. He was practically seeing the roles they are going to play behind their faces. Jia Rui was exactly what he should be, an ice extrovert with a brave heart and sometimes a bit impertinent mouth. 

“Nice to meet you as well,” he said politely and wanted to continue, but he couldn't because someone intervened. 

Another eye-catching boy with fine, exotique features came closer. 

“And who is this, our lord Bingyi?,” a pleasant voice said from behind their backs. 

 Neo Hou came to the scene and lifted his hand to Jia Rui, who accepted it with a broad smile. 

“Hi bro, long time no see,” Hou continued. 

Tian Jia Ruy and Neo Hou knew each other from the drama Fangs of fortune. But since that time the cooperation has avoided them for a long time. They have been good friends since the shooting, though. And both actors didn't hide their pleasure to see each other again. 

Neo Hou was a lovely and handsome boy with a slender frame. Even though he was almost 1.8 m high he actually looked quite fragile. But it was just an illusion. He was a clever extrovert with a mischievous smile and gentle behavior. 

Zhan didn't know Neo Hou much personally but he liked him from the screen for his cheerful nature and gentle bearing. It was an even bigger pleasure to meet him personally.

“Ah, nice to meet you,” he said when he lifted his hand. “I was looking forward to playing in some drama with you. I really admire your acting skills.”

 Neo Hou was sincerely surprised. 

“Thank you, for such a compliment. It's an honour from such an actor and idol like you.”

 Hearing the word idol, Zhan blushed and grinned. 

 “I heard, you have even refused one role to play here with us,” Jia Rui intervened. “Fine that you chose us. At least we can enjoy some fun again during the shooting.” 

 Hou added, “Yeh, that is right but I could hardly say no. That was an unrepeatable offer.”

 Zhan was not sure what he meant by that and he was quite curious. But he didn't ask, not this time. It was impolite and even Yibo didn't reply. Why Hou would. 

 “Yeh, that is an unrepeatable offer to cooperate with me,” Jiurai laughed out loud and made Hou’s eyes smile as well. 

 "Not only you, there are so many great actors,” the director said, coming to them. “And there will be more.”

 Zhan raised his brows. “Even more than we have already casted? From famous faces?” He was shocked because this was quite a surprise even for him. 

 Diliraba had a spark in her eyes. “Man or woman?”

 “Two men,” the director explained. 

The actors exchanged intrigued looks. It was a debate that attracted attention of others as well. The ensemble quite spread as other actors like Li Hongyi, Gina Jin or Chang Hua Sen joined the group. 

 “So who will be the happy one? Don't let us wait,” Diliraba asked, excited as a small girl. 

 Though the director was mysterious and took his time. 

“It might be surprising for you in accordance with what happened a year ago but we have decided to cast two other very famous icons - Tian Xu Ning and Huang Xing.” 

Considering the faces it really was surprising for his audience. 

 Zhan was standing there with his jaw dropped, others were confused and Wang Hao Xuan, who was just standing separately, supported by the wall, gave them his usual provocative smile. 

“It looks like it will be more fun than I thought,” he said after a while. 

 Tian Jia Rui, who was standing nearby sneered and looked challengingly at Cheng Lei, as he was used to from previous shootings. 

“Challenge accepted,” he said, amused. 

 Diliraba and many others laughed. 

It looked like they approved the news. But Chang Hua Sen looked dumbfounded and Zhan was not sure about it at all. He was more worried than anything else.

“But why cast them? Isn't there already enough actors?” he asked carefully.

 “Can’t it endanger the filming process?” Yang Yang joined him politely. But he was also quite alerted. 

 “They are excellent actors and even though there was some controversial case around them, we came to the conclusion to give them the chance. Of course we didn’t decide without some guarantees. We asked for approval and we got it.”

 This time, everyone was stunned. There were approvals needed before starting to shoot a drama. If it was approved, it should be alright. But Zhan was quite surprised it got there at all. Did the restrictions finally get eased?

 The beginning of this story led back to 2025 when two boy's love series were broadcasted and even though it was very popular it was banned in their country. Though, the actors became tremendously popular and it made quite a ruckus all around.  Since the incident the actors never played in a drama of local production again and it aroused much gossip. They mostly cooperated with Taiwanese or Japanese producers. The truth was that right now, Tian Xu Ning was another guarantee of popularity of the drama as Zhan and Yibo were. Might it be enough for film makers to try such roulette?

“We gave them the opportunity to return on the board and play in local drama again, to show their skills,” the director explained. They are both worth it. 

 Wang Hao Xuan came to Zhan and whispered into his ear. “ We had two BL actors, now, we already have four.”

 Xuan was playing Xue Yang in The Untamed and they were friends with Zhan since that time. But work unfortunately divided them as well as others. Though, he had some interesting roles since then where he played the main role as well. 

 Zhan looked at him just like some impertinent frog was asking for a friendly strike. “Shhh, what are you thinking about? The untamed was a brotherly drama, not a BL.”

 Xuan gave him a strange smile. Zhan couldn't help not to react, 

“What, we were friends and Lan Zhan and Wei Wuxien were also just brothers and soulmates. It is something else.”

 Xuan chuckled and took him around his shoulder but he didn't oppose. He was more like: When you want to believe that…, but he looked at the senior and said. “What a pleasure to see you after a long time. I was excited to play with my old coworkers. I didn't even dare to hope for such a chance again … Though, I can't see Yibo.”

 “He is not here and he won't come. He has some work in Paris,” Zhan explained. 

 “Oh, that is right, I have seen the photos.”

 What photos, were there already some photos from the fashion show? Zhan was quite curious but after what happened last time, he decided not to look, not to care. 

 There actually were more interesting things to talk about now and Zhan couldn't satisfy his hunger for the news. 

 “Xuan, what were you doing all the time? Tell me about your life and your career,” he asked and they immersed into a long, mutual chat. 

Not that far away, other actors had good fun too. 

 Everyone used the time to remember old times or meet each other. Ao Ruipeng joined the group too and immediately got into the chat with Tian Jia Rui, Cheng Lei and Gina Jin.  All of them were also talking about their roles in the sects and upcoming martial arts and choreography training. None of them was usually able to run from this but they didn't mind it because it was not only fun and possibility to learn something new but also time spent with their friends. 

Jia Rui still provoked Cheng Lei and Hou provoked Jia Rui in his usual gentle and polite way only he was able to adopt. But they all just teased each other and they got along very well. 

 Diliraba and Yang Mi spent most of the time evaluating their late fashion styles. But they were also talking about shooting and about the upcoming show. Yang Mi couldn't take her eyes down from Zhan, who was talking to Xuan. 

She adopted an amused look when she was watching him. The feeling she was supposed to play Yibo's mother was funny. But she slightly envied Diliraba that she was supposed to play a romantic role with Zhan. Diliraba followed her look and found Zhan with Xuan as well. She chuckled. 

“Do you admire handsome boys?” she asked playfully. 

Yang Mi sneered. “Zhan is 33 as well as you. What a match. I am already too old,” she joked. 

The 33 was a magical age - It might mean some challenge. But that challenge might be bigger than they could even imagine. 

“Isn't he lovely?” Diliraba asked. She had to chuckle and blush whenever she saw these boys.

Yang Mi smiled. “Did you ever wish to play a romantic role with him?” she inquired curiously. 

“And who didn't,” Di replied sincerely. “But I wanted to play it with Yibo more… what an irony that the only role I have ever got is a role of his sister.”

Yang Mi grinned while she was drinking an aperitive.

“And what should I say! You are at least a younger sister, but me? I am playing his mother! Haha”

Both women laughed, though Diliraba ended it with a dreamy smile. 

“I was hoping for some romantic role with Yibo since I cooperated with him on one short movie. We used to be friends.”

Not that they wouldn't be now. But they haven't met much lately. It was as rare an opportunity to meet him personally for her as for Zhan. But they had much in common except dance and a special sex-appeal they used during the photoshoot. Sometimes it almost looked like they had the same school. If Yibo was exquisite on the front page of Harper's Bazaar, Diliraba was almost like his feminine other side. They used to be very good friends but they haven't had much time for each other lately. 

Diliraba contemplated.

“It is the first time I am going to film with him. There might be some opportunities. But I heard he is going to have a very flexible schedule. In any case, there will be many scenes during the set that we have together. I am really looking forward to seeing him.”

It was not hard to see that she meant it. So much that Yang Mi chuckled, thinking if the roles were not casted incorrectly and Yibo shouldn't play the role that was offered to Zhan. At least from the expectations of Diliraba's heart. But such a picture didn't match the show.

 Yang Mi looked around and scrutinized another very handsome men - Yang Yang and Chang Hua Sen. What a lively sunshine Hua Sen was, she thought the same idea she had whenever seeing him in some show. But this was the first time she could meet him personally. Though he was already talking with Yang Yang and Li Hongyi while Neo Hou just joined them. 

 Li Hongyi was a top notch actor who starred especially in the drama Blood of Youth but he was one of the best and most respectable young faces in chinese drama universe and his more oriental and delicate features were exactly what Zhan wanted in the drama. Just using an eye pencil and there was exactly what was supposed to be. Many people used to confuse him with another excellent actor Cheng Yi who was not there. But they could hardly cast everyone. 

 Chang Hua Sen was quite a new actor but he lately captivated the hearts of many fans, not only with his appearance but also his friendly and cheerful nature. Even though he looked very kind, almost naive, he proved in several dramas that he was able to play bad guys as well. 

But he was exceptionally cheerful and open to people. They were just talking about the roles they played and their hobbies when Neo Hou joined them and introduced to those he still didn't know. It was very easy to find mutual sympathies in such a society. 

 Neo Hou had an enormous number of dramas behind. It was almost admirable when he managed to film them. But Yang Yang was not much different. Hua Sen was a younger actor but his roles were very good and amusing. He was one of the best looking actors with very profound skills who managed to attract attention. All of them were stunning in period costume dramas as well. Ao Ruipeng was another actor who starred in Blood of Youth and lately introduced many other excellent dramas where he played a main role. When he saw Li Hongyi, he immediately went to greet him. Then, he looked at others.

 “In this show, we are practically playing enemies, aren't we?” he asked. 

 But Neo Hou just shook his head. 

“Not exactly enemies, I would use the word challengers.”

“Yeh, we will challenge each other to the drinking battle, hahaha,” Hua Sen laughed. He apparently liked the idea. But when others didn't believe him, he continued. 

“But it is true! There really is a scene where we will compete in liquor drinking.”

“Sects or cultivators?” Yang asked and smiled. 

“Various members of both main sects.”

“Fine, no problem, I was training the whole shooting of Dashing Youth for this,” Neo Hou happily joked.

A burst of laughter followed. 

“I am sure I also have what to offer,” Ruipeng said with a self-assured voice while the girls joined them. 

“Did I hear something about liquor? What about having some at the bar?” asked Gina Yin. 

Hua Sen’s eyes immediately started to shine. “What a great idea!” he exclaimed loudly and called out to others. “Hey, someone wants a drink? We are going to the bar!”

Everyone except Zhan looked around and all of them started to gather at the place. 

The director said several words and called. “To the success of the drama!” before they cheered. 

Then, the room filled with the sound of happy chattering and everyone enjoyed the company of others. 

The time passed quickly.

 When it was almost midnight, the director Jeffrey Chiang took Zhan by his shoulder and led him to the side where they had more privacy.

 It was December 5th and they were supposed to move to Europe in the next few days. But Zhan didn't know everything about their upcoming trip. It was really shocking when he found out. 

 “Zhan, we are leaving tomorrow to France. The plane flies at 14:30 in the afternoon.” 

Zhan smiled. “Oh yeh, yeh, I know.”

“Fine, did you take some comfortable shoes and sportswear? We are going to nature and the mountains.”

“Of course, I have everything I need,” he confirmed. 

 The dictator smiled but his face became more serious. It surprised Zhan. 

 What is it, he thought. Another unexpected change?“

 But he didn't have to wait for a reply for a long time. 

 “There is something I wanted to tell you. I asked Wang Yibo to join us. And he agreed. He will be traveling with us for four days. I hope you won't mind but I had my reasons.”

 He didn't tell him what the reasons were but it didn't seem that important at the moment. Zhan was dumbfounded. He was not sure what surprised him more - that there even was such an offer or that Yibo agreed? He even felt some side intention there but he was discreet enough to hide it. 

 “I … I am surprised, I won't lie, but you are the boss,” he replied with a forced smile. 

 “That is not what I want, I hope we all could enjoy it without any interventions that could spoil our fun.”

 Zhan thought that it was not just on them. Though, if there was some appeal to him, he understood. 

 “Of course. I am sure Yibo's experiences might be useful.”

 Chiang smiled. “Then, we have the same opinion. I am already leaving now. Don't stay too long. You might miss the plane. We will meet at 11 at the airport.”

 Zhan chuckled and they said goodbye. He didn't stay for a long time. But he was still moved by the news even when he was going to his hotel. He was not sure what their upcoming meeting with Yibo would be after what happened in the last months. But he felt that he wouldn't mind his presence. And it was an omen of something more exciting as well. He might even like the idea after all. What happens will show only time. 

He was just surprised that that old fox Chiang was hiding it from him all that time. 

Chapter Text

The next day, an hour before airplane departure, Zhan and Chiang were sitting in the cafe at the airport, waiting for the boarding. It was cloudy and the storm was coming but the situation was not that bad to close the flights. They finally had enough time to discuss their opinion about the filming locations and the road itinerary. When they finished they came to the conclusion that their vision is so similar that the route can be significantly simplified. It took them a half of an hour at the airport but their brainstorming continued in a plane as well. 

“How did you enjoy the meeting yesterday?” the director asked Zhan. 

“Me? Very much. I am glad to work with such a great team. Really, all the colleagues were very nice and friendly.” 

He meant it sincerely but he couldn't help thinking, Or at least those who were there, to himself. When those words appeared on his mind, it was not just because of Yibo. He remembered the new actors again. Should he has asked about it? 

But didn't the director already say enough? There was no reason to talk about it any more. Their team was just two other people richer and so it was. 

Zhan didn't know them much and he didn't have reason to think badly about them or worry about their presence. He didn't know why he was uncertain about it. He was probably just worried about possible danger to the drama launch but if it was approved, it was ok. So he dismissed it from his mind. 

“I am glad you all made good relations because it is important for mutual cooperation. There will be more occasions to see each other out of the set,” the director explained something Zhan knew very well. 

But now, he was much more interested in the future of upcoming days.

“Can we check the route of our trip? I suppose we have already made an agreement when we were talking about it on the phone, but I would still like to be sure.”

“Of course. We will stay one day in Paris, waiting for Yibo. But we will pick him up on 8th December at 13 o’clock. Then, our destination is Foix in France. While we will be in the south we need to completely check the city center of Carcassonne, the castles Comtal and Peyrepeetuse and the best places for shooting in Pyrenees for filming the story except the battles.”

It was exactly how Zhan expected. They were thinking about other places as well, of course. There were a huge number of castles and chateaus in France, the most famous were chateaus on the river Loir. But none really fitted into the picture needed for the story. They were thinking even about the French and Swiss Alps but even they were not what they needed. It was too picturesque and with many flora. But they needed more plain landscape, mountainous but hollow land. 

Carcassonne was a beautiful historical city with a great and old cathar castle. But even better for the show was that not far away was another castle - Peyrepeetuse, situated in the mountains. It fitted into the script where the royal family should withdraw to the castle fortress in the mountains from the conquered city and fight against the siege of the enemy till help and reinforcement would come. 

Everything perfectly fitted into the plan. All these places were waiting for them in France to check them out. 

“We will have one day of free time in Paris, we should enjoy it. Do you have any plan?” Zhan asked. 

“Of course, I thought about taking a stroll around the city. I know it is a shame but I haven't been to France yet. That is the reason why I am looking forward to it so much. I am especially eager about their waftles, is that right?” Chiang asked, excited as a small boy. 

Zhan grinned. “It’s waffles. This desert is actually more common for Belgium, but they will be in France as well. I am sure of that,“ he explained… “Ehm, and … Yibo?”

Chiang sighed but it was not a sad sigh, more a sigh of relief.

“He won't meet us till 8th December. He has got work,” the director replied smiling. 

It was not unexpected. Zhan actually didn't expect anything else. And he didn't even comment. Seeing him silent, the director continued. 

“I’d like to remind you that there will be a meeting with producers in Carcassonne. We might meet not only them but also several French actors who might be shooting in France.”

“Ah, that is great. I am looking forward to seeing them,” Zhan replied in a good mood and the director grinned.

“Wait to see the actress who is going to play the role of the envoy. She is a real beauty! Believe me!”

Zhan laughed. 

They had many beautiful actresses in their country but seeing someone else was actually quite a pleasant change. 

“Ok then, I can't wait,” he said playfully. 

They came to France at night but their reserved taxi brought them directly into the hotel. Zhan was talking again to Chiang in the morning on the breakfast. 

He couldn't exactly get used to European meals as it was very different to Chinese. But he always tried something else. The pencakes with an apple bechamel were excellent and it was a great start to the new day. 

It was well known that Zhan was going to France and there were always fans at the airport in their country but it was much calmer in Europe. He was glad for it. Coming to a new world where he was more in the role of a stranger was always quite refreshing. 

What was more, no one knew about them picking Yibo. He even didn't know how the director managed to hide it. But no one talked about it. Even Yibo didn't inform about it and he somehow managed to ignore it in his schedule as well. But Zhan didn't have an idea what he had there. There was just info about him going to Paris for fashion week and then for a trip across France. Of course people were speculating about them, after all, they were going to the same city and Zhan couldn't even imagine how they could hide it till the end of the trip. But not telling anyone in advance where they would be was definitely more safe for them. Otherwise they wouldn't avoid crowds of paparazzi and fans following them on the way. 

Zhan was more and more curious. He was just putting marmalade on a piece of bread when he asked.

“How are we going to pick up Yibo, by the way?” he asked curiously. 

“He has got some business in the morning but then, he will go back to the hotel to pack. We will pick him up at the hotel, there are separate garages for VIP, so no one can get there.”

Zhan just made a muffled Ahhah sound with an expression of understanding. He was actually more and more curious about how their upcoming trip would go. Even though he still couldn't forget some things from the past, something about the challenge was thrilling. On the other hand, his inner voice was permanently telling him that he should stay cold headed all the time. And he was ready to listen to his intuition. 

The day in France was exquisite. They were crossing the city, wandering around the streets and visiting Parisian sights for the whole day till they finished in one of the restaurants in the city center. The waiter knew Zhan and immediately greeted them with a special appetiser for VIP hosts. It surprised both men so much that they couldn't stop thanking but it made Zhan even more grateful. 

During the day they found time to see both the Eiffel tower and look to the Louvre which was a heart warming experience for Zhan as an artist. After the day, he was lying in bed happy and full of exciting experiences. Right then, there was nothing that could spoil his mood. 

The remaining time till the date of departure was excellent for adjusting the remaining details of the show. 

When it finally came, they sat into the car and settled on the way.

Yibo's hotel looked like a glass skyscraper from a distance. When they came to the garage, there was nothing special about it but one person who was waiting in the middle row of the parking lots. 

According to the number of cars, there really were not many people who would use this special VIP garage. But they couldn't complain because they were glad to be unseen. When the car finally stoped beford the person, director get of the car. Zhan could hear the voices but he didn't get off himself. Though, he was curiously looking out of the window and scrutinizing their new companion. More than about his excellent and tidy appearance as usual, he was surprised about how many bags did Yibo have.

“Hello Yibo,” the director greeted him when he was outside. “Everything ready?”

Zhan could see the boy smile and bow at least two times. 

“Yes, sir. Ehm … I have three bags as I informed you in advance,” he highlighted what was obvious. 

“Yeh, it is not a problem. I borrowed the car with big trunk,” 

Chiang replied and led them back. 

“Geez, what is there?” He complained when he tried to put one in the car but he resigned. 

Yibo quickly walked closer in rescue. 

“Don't do that, I will do it myself.” 

He carefully orgenised all backs and when it was ready, closed the trunk. 

Zhan was looking at them at the mirror all the time, curious. But Yibo responded their question afterwards. 

“There is climbing equipment. After our trip, I will continue to the mountain with some friends.”

Zhan's eyebrows rose but the director accepted it more like just an another casual news.

“Ah, you are real mouteneer Yibo. It’s fine, I think this is not the only thing you have with your role Li Nianzhen in common.”

Yibo’s lips twitched. Meanwhile, he came to the car and looked inside, just to find Zhan in the front seat. But instead of friendly greetings, his face became too stern. He hesitated. 

Zhan understood it as hostile reaction. He was frist surprised and then even dissapointed. But he didn't react till Yibo left him lost for words with his next proclamation . 

"But I can't go like this,” he said calmly to both the director and Zhan. 

“Why am I sitting in the back seat?  Ge, let me sit in the front seat. I need to sit there.”

For Yibo, it was that easy. 

Zhan was not sure if he was joking. But he was absolutely happy where he was and he didn't want to go back either. He was ready to defend his right. 

“Why?” he asked, annoyed, “I have been sitting in the front seat since we left. I don't want to change.”

“But you have to, ge. Otherwise, I am not going…” 

Yibo's expression was more adamant than the wide walls of the castle Comtal when he said it. 

Zhan was in shock. His jaw dropped and he was not able to say a word for a while. Chiang was just a bit surprised but he was apparently waiting for some explanation. Unfortunately, it didn't come. 

What does Yibo think he has even the right to ask for something like that ?, Zhan thought and crossed his shoulders. “I am not going to the back seat. Just sit down and don't sulk, puppy!”

Yibo looked disagreably. 

“Why don't you let me sit in front? Let me go there, bro.”

“Because I am older. No !” Zhan spated 

“And?” Yibo asked, amused. 

Zhan adopted expression of someone who didn't understand how the other person couldn't understand. 

“And I have an age advantage, of course, just sit down Yibo!”

“I don't think you would be that old to have any advantage, ge.”

Zhan sneered. “It doesn't work like that. Older is just older. SIT DOWN!”

But Yibo was even more stuborn than Zhan and refused till the director couldn't listen to that any more and he interupted them with a sigh. 

“Stop bickering please,” he asked.  “Yibo, is there some good reason why you want to be in front?”

“Yeh, I just sometimes feel sick when I am sitting back there.”

“Well then. Zhan, let him sit in the front seat!”

Zhan was dumbstruck. 

He just shook his head in disbelief but he finally got out of the car. When he looked at Yibo, his eyes cutted through him like two knives. 

When they were finally at the car. Zhan was still offended. He was watching Yibo with suspicious look.

“Since when do you have these problems? I don't remember you would have them.”

“I have always had them, but more often in higher altitudes where the terrain often changes.”

Zhan narrowed his eyes. “I think you are just kidding us,” he said. 

Yibo smiled, “I wouldn't dare. After all, you both are older. It would be disrespectful.”

Zhan just sneered and shook his head. “You! Do you even know what that means? Have you ever had respect for me?” he challenged him. 

Yibo inhaled and looked at the back mirror to see him but before he could say something, senior continued. 

“I am sure you are just kidding. You are having a good day from your poor older senior brother as always. But what I would have expected. Just another unimportant lie.”

Yibo’s lips pursed. 

What lie?  

He looked over the shoulder at Zhan, and starred at him for a while.

“I swear I tell the truth,” he said finally. “Don't be offended, Zhan-ge.”

Though, it was too late. Zhan was already steaming like a pressure cooker. “Me? Am I offended? I am not, I am just telling facts!” 

Yibo scowled. 

“No, you are telling nonsense! Just your assumptions.”

“Is that just an assumption that you don't respect me? And what was that lately. Coming to me to reconcile, telling me that you care, then ignoring me and then even ridiculing me through some cheap competition games. And now, you don't even say hello and steal my seat!”

Even though it was said with utter sincerity it made both Chiang and Yibo twitch their lips. But they hid it as quickly as they managed. 

Zhan was angry. He had already had enough, no matter if this time it was true. And that was why he said maybe too much. Yibo’s expression was unreadable but his lips were pursed and his eyes were bitter like Lan Zhan's. He was thinking, though, before he could say a word, the director intervened first. 

“I think we will have to set some rules,” he said with a trace of reproach, “We came from business reasons and we don't need to be distracted or disturbed. If you have some personal grudges I would recommand you to talk about them, but somewhere in private. You will have an excellent chance now. Be sincere and talk about all what you want to know and what bothers you instead of making assumptions. Believe me when I say from my own experiences that it never leads to good relationships. 

Nevertheless, outside, I am asking you to put all such matters out of your head and focus on work. Train yourself in self-disciplin. There is a lot of techniques how to clear your head and get your emotions under control. Do you understand?”

“Yes, sir,” Yibo said immediately withouth hesitation.

Zhan suddenly felt a bit guiltily. He looked at Yibo who didn't look back. He was just taciturnly studying him from behind. 

Yibo looked so calm and decisive as usual. Just like everything in his world was clear like a sky during the sunny day and Zhan had to ask, Was that truth or just an illusion? Did he ever hesitate? 

When he was thinking about that Yibo sometimes made an impression of a superman. But deep inside, there must have been that humanity that was common for every human being. 

In that moment, Zhan remembered his own question, “ Yibo, are you even a human?” and it finally made him smile again. 

Lost for words he left directors comment withouth reply. But Chiang required some reaction. “Zhan, is that clear?” he asked unweaveringly. 

“Ah, … yes, of course. I am sorry for my behaviour.”

“Fine,” the director smiled. “And now, what about singing to correct the mood. I am sure we all are quite good singers,” he chuckled and started to sing his favourite song. 

Yibo’s lips curved into a very beautiful smile as he joined the singing. 

While their car quickly moved in direction to Orléans and Toulouse, he looked over his shoulder, curious about what Zhan was doing. 

Senior was singing as well but he was lost in thoughts. His eyes were focused on something outside and he didn't notice that Yibo was watching. 

Their destination for now was not Carcassonne in the south of France but the historical city with a dominating castle that was situated not far away. Though it was more than 700 km away and the distance made them make some stops on the way. 

All of them spent quite a lot of time talking and exchanging information about upcoming drama. Yibo was not naturally so well informed as Zhan and most of the conversation came on his initiative. But in the last half of an hour, both of them put on their headphones and spent some time listening to music. While Yibo was picking up some music for his next dance choreography, Zhan was listening to French songs. 

In the middle of their long journey the car finally stopped by the gas station to fill up the car with gasoline. All of them got off and started to stretch up after a long sitting while other cars were swiftly passing around. 

“Geez, I am already looking forward to being in Foix, that journey is going to make me sleep!” Zhan complained. 

Yibo was stretching nearby.

“But you can sleep contrary to the driver,”  he replied. 

Zhan left it without comment. Chiang closed the car and pointed at the gas station. 

“Let's stay here for at least 15 minutes. Buy coffee, I also need some time to relax and a cup of coffee to wake up,” he said and they headed inside together. 

“Are you tired? I can drive some part of the route, if you like,” Yibo offered. 

Chiang just smiled but he refused his offer with words, “No, it's ok. I can handle it. I just need some stops.”

All of them went to the restroom but Yibo left it until the end of the break and he went to buy the coffee first. There was a machine that worked a bit different than in their country but it was understandable enough. Later on, Zhan joined him while he was picking up some sendwich. “Hungry?” he asked, looking at the coffee in his hand. 

“Yeh, I didn't have lunch.”

Zhan raised his eyebrows. 

“You didn't? You could have said something?!” he said reprimandingly. 

But Yibo stayed indifferent. 

“It’s ok, I am used to eating later. Didn't you say you are tired? Buy a cup of coffee. There is not much time.”

Zhan decided there was no point in instructioning Yibo and went to the coffee machine. But as he was studying how to buy it, Yibo came over and bought it for him instead. 

“See, it’s easy,” he said and his lips twitched. 

Zhan was grateful but he felt a bit stupid and finally just lukewarmly thanked him. Meanwhile Chiang appeared and bought the coffee as  well. Yibo headed to the restroom. 

“How long will the journey take yet? We are already after the half, aren't we?” Zhan asked but even Chiang was not sure, so he picked up his phone and found the route in navigation. It was another two hours in the car but it was not that bad. Still, he furrowed. 

“Yibo said he didn't even have lunch. There is dinner at the hotel but  it is late. If we don't use it, we should go to some restaurant.”

Chiang smiled. 

“I thought we could have a nightly sightseeing tour and try some in the city centre. 

Zhan’s eyes lit up. He liked the idea and told it to Yibo the moment he came back. 

“Fine,” Yibo said, smiling.

“We can try some french specialities,” Zhan finished the conversation with a dreamy expression. 

When they were leaving, the clock showed almost 6 o’clock p.m. They arrived at their accommodation two hours later, happy that they had the exhausting journey behind them. 

Chiang opened the trunk and started to take out the baggage but Yibo's remained inside. 

“Just leave it, I will take some and bring in the rest afterwards,” junior explained.” 

Zhan was curiously looking at it like he was not able to wait to open it and look inside. But he said nothing so far. They went into the hotel and one by one stopped by the counter. A polite French girl greeted them. Zhan made a reservation and it was him who started to talk. 

“Hello, we have a reservation for two nights here.”

“Ah,” she was looking at the reservation list in the computer system. She even didn't ask about the name, reflecting that she recognised them. Nevertheless, she was professional enough to behave normally. 

How many rooms?” she asked. 

“Two,” Zhan replied automatically. But too much. 

Both Yibo and Chiang looked perplexed and the girl even more. 

“Are you sure? It doesn't correspond with the order.”

Chiang looked surprised but he quickly intervened as he came to just one conclusion. 

“Ah, I thought you would take three rooms but if you and Yibo want to stay in one room… It is utterly ok,” he said politely.

Yibo raised his eyebrows. 

”I just wanted to say the same about you two,” he replied calmly but Zhan flushed and tried to save the situation. 

“Ah, no, no, I am sorry, it was three rooms!” he quickly blurted out.

Yibo grinned. 

He couldn't help not to tease senior a little.

“My older brother forgot I am here as well so he said just two.”

Zhan grimaced. “I mixed up the numbers.”

Others were apparently amused. 

“Zhan-ge, what are you thinking about?” Yibo asked seriously.  “I know you said you can't focus lately. But I didn't expect it to be that bad. You can't even count to three.”

Zhan had still been sheepishly smiling so far but this time, he looked at him like an intruding insect. 

“Just leave it alone!” he yelped and looked back at the girl at the desk finishing the reservation.  

“Don’t worry, I also feel distracted after such a long drive,” Chiang came to help. “And I almost can't see because of the hunger. Some relaxation afterward will help us get fit again.”

Zhan was eager to change the topic. He gratefully thanked him and when the girl gave them the keys, he quickly redirected the conversation. 

Chiang looked at the keys. “There are two rooms on the third floor and one on the second,” he explained. “I will take…”

Though Zhan quickly interrupted,

“I will take the separate one, it is ok.” and he took the keys from the room on the second floor, apart from them. 

Chiang deeply inhaled but remained silent … as well as Yibo. 

“So, are we going to meet at half an hour before entrance?” Yibo asked after a while squinting over at frowning Zhan. He couldn't help but smile. 

“Yes, please,” the director agreed and all of them left. 

When Yibo took his baggage to his room he went immediately back for the rest. He had three very big bags and was just picking up the second when a senior appeared at the door again. 

Seeing Yibo there, he languidly came to him. “Do you want to help?”

Yibo was surprised that he appeared there. He thought that Zhan was angry but senior apparently accepted it all very maturely. 

“It is very heavy,” he explained, knowing that Zhan didn't have a very sturdy body in the past. But Zhan just chuckled. 

“Do you think I am a rag doll? Just give it to me,” he said self assuredly with an amused expression and grabbed it into his hand as easily as he would pick up a bunch of flowers. 

Yibo closed the door watching as Zhan lifted the baggage on his back and waited for him. He couldn't help not being quite impressed. 

Then, they went to their rooms to get ready for the evening stroll. 

Later, they assembled at the entrance door as was arranged. 

They were accommodated in the historical center under the castle that was rising into the sky above their heads and it was the first place they headed to. Zhan was admiring the architecture style while Yibo dreamily looked at various peaks of Pyrenean mountains. Even though it was December it had not been snowing yet, just the temperature was lower the higher they were, right there it was only 3 degrees above zero.  

Both Zhan and Chiang were warmly dressed but Yibo had only a jacket without a scarf. Zhan wondered how he could not be cold. He spent a lot of time in the snowy winter mountains doing sports, he must have been very tough, but, even so, Zhan's whole body shuddered with cold whenever he saw him. 

When Yibo scrutinized the landscape enough he unexpectedly reached the senior with a question.

“There is just one thing we should get cleared,” he said seriously. 

Zhan looked at him with his eyebrows raised. 

Yibo continued, “If we go to a public restaurant and walk around the city like this, we won't be able to cover anything even here in France. So … are we going to act openly and publicly like colleagues … and friends?”

Zhan’s jaw stupidly opened before he realised it and closed it again. He had an expression of a man who couldn't understand why Yibo was even asking that.

“Of course! We are colleagues, we have already talked about it,” he replied. When he saw Yibo's uncertain expression he added. ”There is no reason to hide anything after it all was said publicly. Everyone knows we are cooperating on a new show. What if they see us together? Why couldn't we cooperate and be seen together? … Or, is there some reason?”

Yibo was contemplating, frowning. 

“There will be a lot of people who will watch us on every step and distort information. How far are you going to put it?”

Zhan sighed, “I am not afraid to visit you even at home if it is under the pretext of a work meeting. People can say what they want… Really, you don't want to avoid me here? Do you?”

Zhan was not even sure what he would do if Yibo's answer was negative. He had a feeling he was not prepared for that at all … what was all this trip about then? Why would they go here together? But he didn't know that it was all the plan of the director Jeffrey Chiang first of all. Still, he remained silent, patiently waiting. 

Yibo looked a bit uncomfortable for a while but then, he resigned. He nodded, ready to let his worries go. He apparently came to the same conclusion. 

“Fine, then. I agree. But we should still be careful how we behave. We shouldn't give anyone the reason to harass us.”

It was something they both were ready to make a deal about. 

Chiang finally joined them and they headed into the historical streets in the city center and for dinner. 

It was almost 9 o’clock when they chose some restaurant to eat in. They had such a hunger that even Zhan couldn't imagine sleeping with such an empty stomach. 

All of them ordered a glass of french wine and enjoyed their company. Zhan had a salad with tofu and Yibo pork with rice and sauce. Chiang tried a speciality of the day, a chicken on the vine. But it made Yibo smile.

“The director doesn't have enough wine, he has it in the dish as well,” he chuckled and others joined him. 

“I actually never refuse a good vine, it was always my dream to see european vineyards.”

“Really? And have you seen some?” Zhan asked.

“Yes, in Spain and Italy,” Chiang explained. 

“There are beautiful vineyards in Italy… The whole country is so nice. So many fascinating historical cities…” Zhan added. 

“Yeh, and so many places I haven't been yet,” Yibo added. “But I think that more special for France are lavender fields…”

The waitress finally came and put the meal on their table. 

All of them happily started to taste. 

“This is sooo good,” Zhan enjoyed. 

“This is also excellent, an interesting taste, but quite different from our cuisine,” Yibo added in evaluation. 

“Everything here is different,” Chiang replied. 

Zhan just took a piece of tofu with pieces of salad on the fork and put it into his mouth. “Yeh, but I like local culture, even the architecture of that castle. It actually reminds me of marocan architecture but it has such a different historical vibe,” he added. 

Chiang nodded, trying to reply but Zhan unexpectedly interrupted again. “Are we going to taste each other's meal?” he suggested without any shame. 

Yibo sneered. “You don't have enough?”

“Ha, ha, ha,” Zhan reacted wryly, “It is quite usual habit in some European countries among friends and we can at least taste more. Director Chiang, you can help yourself if you want, just take it from this site, I haven't touched it yet.”

It might not be a common habit in Asia. However, Jeffrey Chiang didn't let himself be discouraged and he really helped himself enjoying delicious tastes of Zhan's meal. 

“It is really excellent,” he praised it. “Try mine,”

“Hmmmm, soooo delicious…,” Zhan said, satisfied.” 

He winked at Yibo and offered it to him as well but Yibo looked like he was not in the mood for such vain nonsence and Zhan resigned for now. 

Meanwhile, Chiang continued.

“That is what I was talking about. The architecture is so nice but so different. I admire how the historical architecture of the countries is beautiful but different. That was the reason why I wanted to film abroad, to show the diversity of cultures. It will make it more interesting.”

Zhan was listening, intrigued. He enjoyed the idea. 

“Hah, yeh, I agree, that is why I love working with you. You are opened to wide, even cross-border cooperation, even though it is more challanging and complicated. But the result might be very special and unique.”

Chiang laughed, “I am also excited from cooperation with both of you. You are young actors who have been representing our country abroad for years, another reason why you should be in the picture…”

While Chiang was talking, Zhan was permanently swiching his gaze between him and Yibo, teasing junior and squinting into his plate. But he surprised both Chiang and Yibo when he took a part of the food on his fork and offered it to Yibo by even lifting it to his mouth. 

Chiang suddenly stopped his monologue and flushed. But Yibo was looking at Zhan surprised and then instinctively forced his hand away. 

“You can't do this!” he reprimanded him urgently. 

Zhan hesitated and looked at Chiang who was diplomatically looking away with an awkward expression but he was still smiling with understanding. It was really hard to hide what was going on when they were behaving like this.

Surprisingly, Zhan looked offended. 

“Ahh, it was just a friendly gesture,” he objected apologetically and withdraw. His hand slightly shivered. In fact, he himself was surprised by this act. He did it so instinctively that he even didn't realize it could make some impression. But Yibo was very careful about everything. 

“Even so, can you imagine someone seeing us and taking a photo? Who could even see it as friendly behaviour?”

Zhan deeply exhaled, though he didn't object any more. Chiang looked at him again and smiled, trying to sooth him. 

“I actually like how nice, friendly, tender and close Zhan’s behaviour is. There is not many people who are like him. I think even media and people would understood this with his nature, no matter how it looks like.” 

Yibo just deeply sighed.

“I didn't say I don't …” he started, but he stopped midsentence and apparently decided not to comment on it any more. His expression was stern.

After the incident the mood became more tense. 

They slowly finished their meals and went into the cold, dark night. 

The two of them who were talking more this time were Yibo and Chiang. 

“We will get off at 7 tomorrow to take a breakfast and head in time. We are going to travel across the mountains, so wear something warm and good shoose for hiking.”

“Of course sir,” Yibo nodded.

They were standing before the staircase on the second floor where Zhan parted. He was unusually taciturn but behaved like nothing happened though both Yibo and Chiang knew he was not in the mood. Yibo looked like he was even sorry about it but he was unyielding in his opinion.

They looked after him when they were rising to the third floor, watching him when he was unlocking the doors, though he didn't look back and disappeared in the doors.

When Zhan came to the room and closed the doors, he sat heavily on the hotel sofa, thinking. Wasn't it him who went on the trip with the feeling that he must be careful? But it was him again who failed his own intuition. He just couldn't restrain himself when it came to Yibo. But he had to do something about it. There were another three days left with junior after all. 

Though, it was hard. 

He remembered Yibo's perplexed face when he tried to feed him and he couldn't help not to chuckle. He was actually so handsome all day, in both his sportswear or his more elegant casual clothes he wore during the dinner. He would like to know what Yibo thought about his own look but that damned junior never said anything - neither criticised nor praised him. 

Just focus on what is important, he said to himself reprimandingly. 

Then he stood up and went to the bathroom to take a shower before sleeping.

Chapter Text

It was 8 o’clock in the morning and they were already sitting in the car on the way deeper into the mountains. The way to the castle Peyrepeetuse was about two hours long but it took them even more because they were doing many stops. 

The conversation in the car never stopped, but the mood was more sleepy than on the previous days. Yibo was the first who broke the silence. 

“What exactly are your main requirements in the shooting spots?” he asked the director.

Chiang contemplated. 

“There are more battles. Some should be shot on more rugged  mountainous terrain near the castle and under it. Others on open and flat valleys with massive mountains in the background. But there would be huge battles with costumes and many relics so the transport accessibility is important. Actually.

We have mostly found the localities in advance in cooperation with our French coworkers but we need to check it personally. And I want to see this land, to suck in the mood.”

They continued and green valleys clenched by the high mountains rising up to the sky were opening before them as they rode inside. Yibo was enchanted with the cliffs around, looking for some climbing routes here and there. Zhan was just enjoying the charm of nature.

They were going to the city of Maury where they were accommodated again and then continued to conquer the mountain.

“Are you going to use it these days?” Zhan asked Yibo, pointing at the bags with climbing equipment. 

“No, I wouldn't dare,” he replied. 

Zhan chuckled. 

“So these days, you will climb without security equipment?”

“I am definitely going to check the terrain,” Yibo agreed. 

Zhan noticed the junior's dreamy look again and smiled. Though he shook his head. For some people, their hobbies were real passion that was sometimes going even beyond the limits.  

He turned to Chiang who was just closing the car. 

“Do you know that we are near the vineyards? A vine called Maury is produced here,” he asked cleverly. 

“I know, and you can be sure we are going to taste it,” Chiang winked at them. 

Zhan grinned. 

It looked like there meant to be lovely, wine-filled days. The good mood was guaranteed. 

Their accomodation was very nice, clean and comfortable and there was even wellness in it. Zhan was looking forward to an evening stay in the whirlpool after a long day of traveling and hiking. But right now, they were on the way to the castle Peyrepeetuse. Yibo was admiring a huge rocky massif with a very high slope that was spreading from the north to the south of the land. Below it was just plain land with fields but a big part of it were just meadows without any crops.

“See, right there is one of the places for the shooting but we will go there tomorrow. Right now, we are going up the mountains.”

“How are we going to the castle? By car or on foot?” Yibo asked. 

“I don't mind going on foot but it depends on Chiang,” Zhan added. 

“I know you are big sportsmans but I will go by car. My legs are not what it used to be. I have a meeting with a representative of co-production there. If you like, you can get off earlier and hike to the peak.”

Zhan was hesitating, he looked at Yibo, waiting for his answer. Though, Yibo was not sure as well. 

“I think we should go up with you. I would like to hear the arrangements as well. But I might part then for the rest of the day and come later with the bus. I would like to take a look around the land,” he replied finally. 

Zhan’s eyebrows rose. 

“Wait. Then, I will go with you!”

But Yibo just lazily objected with his favourite, “No need.”

Zhan shook his head. “I won't let you part alone. You are going to the cliffs, I am sure by that. What if something happens to you?“

Yibo wanted to oppose but Chiang was quicker, “Zhan is right. Go together and I will let you drive the car. I can go back with the French delegation.”

Zhan's eyes lit up and Yibo understood there was no reason to object.

He just snorted and shrugged. 

Then, he simply replied “Ok” and focused on the view of the castle in front of them. 

They were just driving to the town below and continued up the mountain to the castle. 

The delegation Chiang was talking about was already there. Three men were waiting to greet them with a very polite attitude. The French were always very charming men with nonchalant style. They were different in behaviour but they all immediately got along very well. 

The castle was mostly in bad condition; it was apparent that the film props and sets as well as some computer editing would be needed. But there were also parts that were very well preserved. 

“The destruction of some parts of defensive walls can be even beneficial. It might look like a result of the attack,” Chiang evaluated the situation and came to the conclusion that the castle was perfect. 

Zhan and Yibo were enchanted with the view. There was beautiful mountain countryside spreading on all sides, providing a very picturesque view even though it was more plain and stoney. 

They went through the whole building, listening to Chiang’s discussion with French companions till it was all over and their ways finally parted. 

Zhan borrowed the car and Chiang left. 

“We will see each other at dinner!” he called after them when he was closing the doors. 

Zhan nodded and went to Yibo, who was already waiting. 

“So? What do you want to see?” he asked.

“Those rocky massifs. There are routes for climbers. But we will go on the top first to have a stroll with a nice view. I will navigate you.”

Zhan agreed and they both got in the car. 

About not even a half of an hour later, they were already wandering on the top of the long and high rocky cliff, looking around the country. There was just wild nature and them. No people, no buildings, no animals.

Yibo led the way and Zhan was slowly walking after him, contemplating. 

He wondered what brought junior to this hobby and his flawless curiosity made him ask. 

“Lao-Wang, what do you like on climbing the most, why do you love it so much?” he inquired carefully. 

Yibo squinted toward the mountains around, the wind tugging at his jacket.

“I am not even sure,” he said, hesitating, “Maybe, it’s the moment when you’re halfway up and everything else disappears. No noise, no world. Just you, your hands on the rock, your breath and the next move. For a while, you are living just for the moment. But it is also the feeling of freedom and victory when you reach the top. The satisfaction when you can overcome obstacles and achieve your goal.” 

Zhan understood but there was still a trace of doubt in his face. 

“You are not afraid at all?”

Yibo chuckled. 

“Of course I’m afraid. Sometimes, my legs shake even after many climbs and it is not just because it is hard. If someone says they aren’t, they’re lying. But that fear is what sharpens everything. My hands grip tighter, my mind gets clear and it’s like… fear turns into focus," he paused, lost in some vision, but then, he tilted his head toward Zhan. "You would probably freeze before the first anchor, right?" he smiled teasingly.

Zhan laughed. “Huh, what do you think about me? Don’t underestimate me so much,” he replied with pretended calmness but when he imagined himself on the rock so high like this one, he shivered. 

Yibo was looking at him, amused. 

“Ok, then. I probably would,” Zhan finally admitted. “My hands and legs would be shaking like a washing machine during spinning. But I never really tried. So who knows…” 

Yibo grinned.  

"Yeh, and that’s the thing—you never know until you try. Everyone shakes at first, even me. The rock doesn’t care if you’re nervous; it teaches you -  step by step, breath by breath,” he looked curiously at Zhan, “I could take you on an easy route one day, if you like. Nothing crazy. Who knows… maybe you’ll surprise yourself."

This surprised Zhan so much that he gasped. He wouldn’t expect Yibo to suggest something like that. But while he would immediately agree in any other, in this case, he hesitated. 

“Ah, ehmm, really? When I think about it, I might give it a try. I have trust in you… And what do I need, by the way?” he replied finally. 

They were walking deeper into the meadow, lining the edge of the cliff on their left side. It was falling down into the valley near Maury and they could easily see the town from above.

Yibo contemplated, "The first thing you need is shoes that grip well. Then a harness, helmet… and trust in the rope and in me, since I’ll be holding it. I’ll set the anchors, tie you in, and you just climb a few meters. Doesn’t matter how far or if you stop. The first time is just about feeling it - the rock, your body, the fear - and then the little rush when you realize you’re safe," he glanced at Zhan, softer, “If you panic, I’ll be right there. I promise I won’t let you fall." 

He smiled. And it was a beautiful smile that has already stolen many hearts. With Yibo's last words, it was not easy to stay with the topic instead of switching to different thoughts. 

“It feels good, almost romantic when you say it like that,” Zhan reacted more for himself, slightly blushing. Yibo slowed down for a while and looked back at him, gasping, but then, he started to laugh. 

"Romantic, huh? Lao-Xiao, only you could describe climbing like that!" 

He paused, observing the endless ridges of the Pyrenees, his expression softening. 

"But you might not be wrong, after all. Sharing the rope is trust, connection. You rely on me, I rely on you. That bond is real, even if there’s sweat and dust instead of roses." 

He shot Zhan a sideways curious glance, this time looking a bit shy. But that uncertain, sheepish expression of a teenage boy disappeared as quickly as it came there, hardly able for Zhan to notice. 

Senior also gave him a sideways glance, apparently intrigued and he wanted to know even more about that sport that he mostly knew just from TV. 

“Fine, tell me more about climbing? What levels of difficulty are there and which are here on this climbing spot?” 

Yibo immediately did as he was asked. 

"Climbing’s got a whole scale, from the kind of routes even kids can scramble up, all the way to stuff only the best in the world dare to try. In Europe, they use the French grading system—starts around 3, 4, where it’s basically steep hiking with hands. Then 5s, where you need technique. From 6a onward, it gets serious—6b, 6c, that’s when the wall is vertical or overhanging, and you’re really fighting gravity. 7s and 8s, that’s pure power and precision. And 9… that’s another world. I can hardly show you from here but I have this one miraculous book.” 

He grabbed onto his back and picked up a climbing guide, found the particular page and stubbed his finger into a particular place on the map. 

“See that cliff? That is the one where we are standing now, but we are walking on its top. The left side has a few easier 5a, 5b routes—perfect for beginners, like you. Nice holds, nothing too scary. The middle section, with little overhangs, that’s 6c or so—you need good footwork, strong fingers. And the right side, where the rock bulges out? That’s hardcore, 7b maybe, even 7c. Technical, powerful, unforgiving."

He paused for a while, reflecting and then turned back to Zhan, grinning, "Guess which side I want to try the most?"

Zhan didn't take much time to reply, “Right?”

Yibo laughed, eyes sparkling with restless energy. "Of course it's right. Always the one that looks impossible."

Zhan frowned, “Ahh, Yibo, don't you think it’s too dangerous?” he complained. 

But Yibo looked like it was the last thing that mattered. 

“Even driving cars on the road is dangerous. The better the feeling when I make it back safe. But don’t worry. For you, I’d pick the left side. Gentle start, big holds, no terrifying overhangs,” he tilted his head, teasing. "Unless you secretly want to impress me and go for the middle."

Zhan gasped and shook his head. He was observing his junior, amused. It took him some time before he finally answered. 

“Sorry, I want to impress you but I still choose the left.”

Yibo bursted out laughing.
"Smart choice," he replied with his grin softening into something warmer, "But you’ll actually impress me just by trying. Trust me, most people never even put on a harness. If you take that first step on the rock, that’s already huge."

Zhan chuckled but something else came to his mind. 

“Is there anything else that makes you feel similar to climbing?”

Yibo growed thoughtful. His voice slowed and it became more reflective than before.
"Yes, riding … sometimes… when I’m on my motorbike and the wind is in my face, everything is alive. It’s that same mix - fear, freedom, focus,” his lips curved into a thoughtful smile. "And dancing, too. It’s different, but… when every move is instinct and the world disappears, it feels close to climbing.”

Listening to him, the senior was lost for words. These experiences were unknown for him but it sounded so well that he almost wished to be able to live it through as well. To experience it, feel it as Yibo. And then, a feeling of admiration filled his body and he couldn’t help not to say what was on his mind. 

“Listening to you, I am impressed,” he replied admirably. “Such talent at such a young age. You are a really great man, Yibo.”

Junior blinked, caught a little off guard by the sincerity in Zhan’s tone. For a moment, his usual coolness faltered and he felt even awkward. Almost like he was not able to bear the weight of such words. 

"Don’t say it like that… makes me sound like some prodigy carved out of stone,” he mumbled. ”I just chase the things that make me feel alive, you know? It’s not greatness, it’s just stubbornness…” For the first time, he smiled with a soft expression. “But coming from you… I’ll take the compliment.”

There was not even a trace of previous aloofness and distance from Zhan. However, Yibo suddenly headed to the left edge of the cliffs and called back to the senior. 

“See, this must be that right side!”

He carefully looked down but there was nothing but the high, steep, almost perpendicular rocky cliff whose higher part was hidden behind the overhang. 

Yibo was bold enough to go to the edge, Zhan rather stayed away. But seeing his brave younger brother, he found the guts to go there too. 

When he inclined over the edge of the rock and looked down, his hands slightly trembled and a strong panic attack clenched his heart. It was apparently easy to talk bravely about it but it was much harder to do that. What was now already casual for Yibo was too scary for him. He was not sure if he would be really able to conquer any rock. 

Yibo smiled. 

“Are you afraid?” 

Zhan heavily swallowed but he didn't want to tell the truth. He wanted to overpower his own fear.

“Don't look down. It is not the same when you are climbing. You just need to gain the trust - to the rope, to the shoes … and to me.”

Zhan looked at him and his expression relaxed. 

“I have trust in you,” he replied and looked into Yibo's eyes. Junior's usual stern look lessened as well and he nodded. 

He stepped away and looked around, seeing the view at the castle while Zhan continued, too close to the edge. Yibo was already more than twenty metres away. 

Zhan continued wandering over the cliff and then, he stopped to sit down for a while. But before he could even make a move a frightening cracking sound echoed through the air. 

It was just a question of a few seconds. He felt how the flat ground below his legs moved, and then, there was just a hollow space. 

Zhan didn't even have the time to panic. He felt himself flying and the last activity he managed to do was to scream.

Chapter Text

Yibo was looking around when he heard that ominuous sound he knew quite well. But it was a predestination of bad omen. 

 Before he looked around there was an empty space and a terrible scream cutted through the air.

“Aaaaaaaaaaah!”

For a very short moment, his blood froze and his heart stopped beating. 

He was in such a shock that he was not able to make a move. Though the urgency of the situation made him quickly wake up and pale. 

His face contorted in fear, dismay and pain. 

“ZHAAAAAAAN!” he called out.

“ZHAAAAAAAN Where are you?”

If someone would see him, the evaluation of emotions reflecting in his face as horror-struck would not be correct. It was even worse. 

He ran to the edge as well, but realised that if the rock broke under Zhan, it could do the same under him as well. So he ran to the other place and when he was reaching the edge he even got on his knees and crawled on all fours. 

“Zhaaaan!”

“Zhaaaaaaaaan!”

The rock was cracked but there was still a huge overhang and he couldn't see what was under it. He was afraid to look deep down to the ground but he still forced himself to do so. There was nothing. No body of a person lying deep in the abyss. And he was sure he must have been seeing it …if. 

His eyes widened in surprise and he continued calling. But the only answer was a slight gust of wind. 

Till. 

‘Yibo?”

A feeble voice came from somewhere below. 

“Zhan?” Yibo called with a rash of happiness raising up his spine. 

“Zhan? Geez, where are you?”

Zhan was hardly coming back to himself after the shock, checking all his body. He was a bit bruised and he had a slight headache but, fortunately, there were no serious injuries. The first thing he did after coming back to himself was call Yibo and look around for some way from this trap. 

Yibo's voice reached him again.

“Zhan? Are you all right? Aren’t you hurt?”

“No, I am all right. Just a bit buttered. But nothing worse,” he tried to joke but it was not funny and Yibo didn't see it like that at all.

“Where are you? Should I go for the rope to get you back here? Just don't do anything that might make you fall!”

A short silence exchanged Zhan's voice again. This time, he was already calmer. 

“Wait! I think it is not needed,” he called. “I can get back myslef, there is a traverse here.”

But Yibo was desperate. He was afraid that Zhan could fall down again and it made him mad that he couldn't evaluate the situation. 

“Where? There can hardly be anything, we are on the top and there is still just flat ground here!”

“Continue walking to the north! About 50 metres. I can see the traverse goes up there and it leads to the top.”

It was crazy but it was true. But Yibo couldn't see it because of the rock overhang. He almost ran to that place to find the entrance, reminding half of the tunnel, leading down below the overhang and continuing to the place where Zhan was still sitting with his back leaned against the cold rock. He was shaking. His hands were bruised and a small stream of blood was running down his head. The broken parts of rocks were lying around. When Yibo came there, Zhan was confused. 

“It was not my fault," he started to defend. “I didn't see any traces…”

But Yibo stopped him, apparently relieved. 

“It is all right. I don't say it is. The important thing is that you are alive.” 

He was studying Zhan’s head ignoring his attempts to shoo him away. “Geez, you could have a conclusion. I will take you back!”

“No, it is all right, it doesn't even hurt.”

“It doesn't matter. Still, some doctor should see you after the fall,” Yibo insisted.

He took Zhan and helped him back on foot. 

“I will help you, just follow me and hold me if you need to. I will go first.”

Zhan gratefully nodded but he had a strange feeling of unease and he was really glad that Yibo was there to support him. It was like he was in too great a shock to realise what happened and understand its consequences. Only now did he understand the precariousness of it all and he was suddenly scared even of looking down from the rock. 

As if Yibo understood (and maybe felt how Zhan clenched his fingers around his hips), he said, ”Don't look down. We are almost there,” and lead him back to safety. 

An hour later Zhan was sitting at the ordination while the doctor gave him a complete medical examination. Even he was in shock of what happened. 

“It looks like you are among a small number of persons who survived their own death. It is a real miracle you are not seriously hurt after falling on a rock. You were also very lucky there was nothing in the way. You must have guardian angels. You will be healthy soon enough.”

Zhan thanked him and after a while was already leaving with recipes for some medical ointments. Only his head and left hand slightly hurt but it was nothing that would make him suffer.

When he came out, Yibo was waiting by the car. 

“I called Chiang, the dinner is ready,” junior immediately informed him.

Zhan accepted the news with pleasure. After all that, he was really hungry and eager for relaxation. 

“Does that hurt?” 

Yibo pointed at the bruises on his body as he was driving. He was still too taciturn and careful. 

“Not much. Not now. I am already ok. The worst was that shock, to tell the truth.”

Yibo nodded. “But I suppose you wouldn't like to go climbing tomorrow after all this?”

Zhan looked at him dumbfounded but Yibo was right. He wouldn't. 

“The question is if you would go climbing after all this?” Zhan asked Yibo sincerely. 

Yibo hesitated but he didn't answer. He curiously glanced at Zhan who did the same. The senior gasped and with a chuckle shook his head. 

The truth was that he didn't expect anything else. But Yibo took his breath away with his next proclamation. 

“Nevertheless, I take back my offer. I will not take you with me on the rock.”

Zhan glanced at him and gasped. 

“Why?” he asked, a bit offended. “You alone would go but you don't want to take me with you? You are hypocrat, Yibo."

Though, the junior didn't care. He hesitated for a while and focused on driving. Only after some time did he find the words and willingness to say them.

“I just have enough of you, falling from the cliffs,” he replied partly as a joke but it didn't sound like that at all. 

The truth was that this experience was much worse for Yibo than for Zhan. Zhan even didn't know about himself for a while and then, he knew that he was ok. But even though he didn't want to show it, Yibo was utterly shaken. 

Some time ago, they were shooting together the scene in The Untamed where Wuxien fell from the cliff. Yibo tried to get into his skin to play it well and he thought he managed it quite well but the truth was that the reality was far worse. 

He was out of his wits with fear and desperation when it happened, knowing all the consequences and that he couldn't do anything about it at all. His friend might have been dead. And it was not just because it was Zhan. But as it was him, he felt even worse. 

Zhan couldn't help not to object. 

“So you can do such risky sports and get yourself killed but I can't? In other words, you are not willing to suffer if someone dies but others could suffer if something happened to you…”

The car suddenly came to a halt. They were finally on the place. 

Yibo said nothing but his eyebrows furrowed and he was not in a good mood. He shot out of the car, ignoring Zhan's words and leaving him behind. 

Zhan understood there was no point in pushing him into the conversation, so he let him go and silently went to his room. 

There might be other, better times to talk. 

It was already dark and they were after dinner. 

The best part of the day finally approached. His phone vibrated and a message appeared. 

Come down, the wellness is ready. 

It was Yibo. 

Great, he purred and changed into bathwear. 

They reserved a whole wellness just for them three. Zhan and Yibo deserved to pamper themselves after such a negative experience and even Yibo couldn't wait for it. 

A moment later, they finally met in the spa’s restroom. The light was dim. A fragrance of an incense stick was drifting in the air and a world music filled the space with its melodies. 

Yibo came to the coffee table and picked up a bottle of champagne.

“Hmm?” 

He made a questioning gesture and attracted their attention.  

“Wow!” Zhan commented. “Of course we will have some.”

Yibo smiled and started to pour the drink into glasses, then put them on the whirlpool.

Both Chiang and Yibo got inside and sat down into the bubbling water making sounds of pleasure. 

Though Zhan was still in the corner, undressing and slightly moaning from time to time. 

“Sorry, it will take me longer,” he apologised.

He was bruised on back and on hands and when he finally appeared by the whirlpool he was holding a cooling gel pad in his hand as well. 

Yibo didn't hesitate and helped him. 

“Give this to me. I will return it when you are inside.”

He helped him to set his hands free and held him when he was climbing into the whirlpool. Though, he hardly could not notice how sturdy Zhan was. It was quite surprising after all those years. He didn't remember him like that from the filming of the untamed. 

How many hours did he spend in the gym?

Yibo’s cheeks slightly flushed. But no one could be sure if it was from heat or something else. 

He supported Zhan till he finally comfortably relaxed. It was quite funny to see him sit in the whirlpool while he was cooling his hand down at the same time. But if it was ok for Zhan, it was ok with him. 

Chiang was watching Zhan with worries. 

“Are you really feeling well? Tell us if you don't. I didn't bring you with me to collapse."

But Zhan quickly shook his head. 

“Ah, yeh, yeh, that is nothing. Just the hand hurts a little. But I am already ok… I am just a bit shaken, though, this makes me feel much better.”

Chiang contemplated and shook his head in disbelief. 

“I still can't believe this happened. What is the probability a rock could crack and fall under you? It was really bad luck. You must be more careful guys. At least postpone these hobbies for later.”

There was some kind of reproach but he didn't mean it in a bad way. He knew it was just an excident as well as Yibo. 

But Yibo was also dumbfounded that something like that even happened. It was apparent that the rock must have been already broken, it just slid under Zhan. But it was still terrifying enough. And the same unexpected  coincidence was that there was that traverse below it and that Zhan fell the way he didn't break his spine or hurt himself seriously. If it wasn’t that case, the consequences would be brutal. It was definitely the story he would once tell to his children like a sensation. But now, it was not funny at all. 

“Yeh, we won't go near the rocks any more,” Yibo replied, trying to make a joke. “They don't like Zhan. This time, he fell. The next time, a piece of a rock would fall on his head instead.”

Senior gasped.

“Haha, really funny, Yibo.” 

Yibo sneered and ignored his remark but Zhan crossed his arms and pouted. 

“And did it at least have some positive impact on you? Did it move something inside you?”

Zhan turned his head to his glass and lifted his healthy hand to take it, joyfully waiting. But his comment only made Yibo’s lips twitch. 

“What exactly should it move in me? I don't understand what you are talking about...”

Zhan sipped from the glass but his eyes frowned. 

Then he inclined closer and playfully said in a low voice. 

“Yibo… , hey, Yibo! Listen to me … but I might still want to go climbing with you...”

Junior just scolded and sneered again. 

“Then, it makes you an even crazier person than I am, I suppose,” he hesitated just to lift his glass to cheer, “Good luck. But … as I said, not with me....”

Zhan wanted to comment again but he didn't even manage to open his mouth to react before someone stopped him. 

“Stop bickering,” Chiang interrupted and they both closed their mouths.

Was it just his feeling or was there much more similarities among them than he thought?

“... Really, leave it for later, please. We came here to relax.”

Zhan was not finished yet but he acknowledged that it was the best thing they could really do and he didn’t dare to oppose Chiang. The taste of champagne left traces of sweetness in their months and whirlpool loosened all stresses. He finally felt well again. 

An hour later, Chiang went to sleep and Yibo came to conclusion that it would be better to disappeare with him. There was no reason for Zhan to stay there alone so he headed into his own room as well. 

Looking back in time, he wondered what was still waiting for him in the upcoming future. But he somehow started to pray he would make it alive.

And he also hoped not to have a bad dream after the fall.

Chapter Text

The next day in the morning they finally headed to the historical city called Carcassonne. 

The city itself with the great dominating medieval castle captivated Zhan already from a distance. The view on the castle, the charm of the historical streets in the city centre and beautiful landscapes from the castle's defensive walls - all that was worth capturing on a piece of paper … and Zhan got an idea. When they came to the hotel he asked Yibo. “Would you pose me?”

Yibo's expression was bewildered for a while. “Me? Pose you?”

“Yeh, I would like to paint a picture here. I will tell you where but I have to see it first.”

Yibo gasped. He was not comfortable about this very unique offer. “I am not good at posing,” he made an excuse, “Ask Chiang instead.”

Zhan just sneered and shook his head. 

“You are posing every day for photographers but you are afraid to pose for me?” His lips twitched. 

Yibo just rolled his eyes. 

“It is not the same. I never posed for an artist.”

He intentionally said that instead of saying “I have never posed for you.” 

Zhan sighed but he stopped persuading him, at least for now…

He decided not to talk about some topics (like climbing) to hold their relationship on good terms. But this one about painting might definitely come back later. For now, he decided to let it sleep. 

There was a tour around the castle and meeting with coworkers from co-production from France planned for the afternoon but they had a lot of time for their free program and lunch before it started. Chiang had a meeting with a friend and asked them to go to the city center alone. 

The city was full of tourists and there were shops and restaurants or coffees on every corner. They were strolling through the streets, observing shop windows and looking into small shops with souvenirs. After a while, Zhan stopped in one, looking for some woman’s jewellery and designed scarfs. 

Yibo raised his eyebrows. “Are you buying a present for your mum?”

Zhan looked at him while he took one of the glittering amber earrings.

“Not only for mum. This one is for Li Qin.”

Yibo was just observing a bunch of tin soldiers with an amused expression but when he heard his words, he looked at him, surprised.

“Li Qin, the actress?”

“Yes, that is her, we are going to see each other soon…”

“Ah,” Yibo replied. “So you are seeing each other?"

Zhan smiled. “Quite enough, we are good friends after all,” he explained while observing a pair of women's dresses.

Yibo was not interested in such things at all.

“Do you even know how many times I was shooting with her? Already three!” Zhan said cheerfully. 

“Really?” Yibo pretended with a surprised look. “Where?”

“In one movie and two dramas... all of them romance… ” 

They played together even in other dramas but he chose only the most important. He was not even sure why he emphasised the last word but it came instinctively. His eyes immediately found Yibo's face. Nevertheless, junior's expression was unreadable. 

“Ah,” Yibo replied, “I shot with her just once and it was enough.”

He said it automatically and without hesitation, so much that it sounded strangely unfriendly. Seeing it as a hostile approach, Zhan froze. He looked at Yibo, confused. 

“Didn’t you get along well?”

“We did,” Yibo replied simply. 

“So why don't you like her?”

Yibo was perplexed. “I didn't say anything like that.”

“But you said that you played with her once and that was enough. Does that mean that you don't want to play with her again?”

Yibo smiled. “No, I … I didn't mean it like that. That is just that I usually don't play two times with the same actors.”

Zhan was surprised. Was that some part of Yibo's image now? Then, he was an exception. 

“But you are going to play again with me…” he reminded him and Yibo sneered. 

“Yeh, which is the least unexpected situation. But who's here to blame?”

Zhan gasped and sighed. 

“I didn't know you had such a rule in your professional life, Yibo.”

Yibo shook his head. “It is not a rule. I am just always going forward - doing new work with new people, experiencing new experiences and getting to know new coworkers on the way.”

He got out of the way from a new customer who was coming to the shop. Zhan was scanning him with his gaze like an X-ray. 

“Then, this time, you will work with several older mates. Even Li Qin will be there.”

Yibo didn't look amused about it at all. 

“I heard," he said too seriously. 

He heard about everyone new coming to the cast. And he didn't like it.

Zhan jolted and fell silent for a while.

“Are you going to blame me again?” he asked finally. We have already talked about this all, Yibo.”

This time, the junior started to be annoyed. 

“I didn't say a word,” he mumbled. 

Zhun chuckled. 

“You don't have to. You have it written in your face.”

Yibo grimaced. 

“I just think you are a real libra - at least from people I know. Active, outgoing, clever, talented, even quite leading type. But you have the need to adjust things to your liking.”

Zhan was lost for words for a while. Though he was in this a bit like Wuchien - always ready to find arguments. It was not easy to fight him with words and Yibo already found out that it wouldn't be easy to fight him with strength either. Sometimes he had a feeling it would be better to unfurl the sails and sail away, till there was time. 

“But you have always had a choice so it might not be to my liking if you didn't agree. And even if I did, isn't that project really good and beneficial even for you, after all?”

Yibo didn't react. He came to the conclusion that there was no point to bicker any more and focused his attention on different things again. 

Zhan took the amber earrings and then grabbed another two with different kinds of gems. When Yibo saw it, his eyebrows rose. He couldn't help it. 

“Is this for another colleague from the shooting?” he joked. 

Zhan rolled his eyes. “Maybe, and for mum. Aren't you going to buy something home as well, by the way?”

Yibo nodded. 

“I am, but I know exactly what - beer, alcohol and sweet. My family’s taste is apparently different from yours.”

Zhan laughed. 

“Ok then, and … some friends … or … someone else?”

Yibo lifted his gaze from the postcards, thinking. He furrowed his brows in contemplation, not being sure what Zhan meant. But when he concluded what he was implying, he simply said. 

“No”

“No?” 

Zhan looked at him, confused. “Is that “no” meaning that you don't buy presents for them or “no” meaning you don't have any…”

Yibo sneered. 

“Who?” he asked openly, amused.

Zhan deeply inhaled, adopting an expression saying how he could even ask. 

“Any … lovers?”

Yibo smiled but it was just a faint, forced smile. 

“I don't buy presents,” he said easily and signaled that this was all he was going to say about that. 

Zhan gasped again.

“Of course you don't. Because if you did, they might think you care about them.” he said with pretended indifference. He talked about it like nothing happened but deep inside, he was already thinking about how to find out if there really was someone like that and who. 

“I just don't buy presents, that is all,” Yibo retorted.

Zhan was uncertain.

“But … does that mean there is someone?” he asked carefully. 

Yibo refused to comment. 

“Or even more ?” Zhan continued, intentionally prolonging the word more. 

Yibo couldn't help not to chuckle and Zhan smiled as well but he really wanted to know and Yibo didn't tell him. He also didn't ask about him and it slightly disappointed him. 

Yibo finally left the shop, apparently leaving even the discussion. Zhan adopted an offended grimace but there was no point to push him. 

They continued to look around the city and after some time got into the restaurant for lunch. But there were more and more people who recognized them and they had to be much more careful on every step. Zhan was smiling at Yibo, trying to whisper some joke to his ear but a moment later became serious and took his distance because someone was taking photos or even filming them. 

Zhan's expression was a bit annoyed. 

“It almost looked like we could finish our trip without being stalked on every corner. It was fine till we were in the mountains.”

“Yep,” Yibo added. “We can expect a flood of news and spicy stories, I guess.”

People also started to notice Zhan's patched head and bandaged hand. Till next day there were a lot of rummours about how it happened. One was talking about Zhan getting into a quarrel, another about Zhan hurting himself during a very passionate night with Yibo and the third … The third was right. 

Zhan blushed and carefully looked at junior when he was reading about that passionate night, but he was dumbstruck when he read there the truth. How many people knew about what really happened? Did someone go to the doctor to ask about him?

“They even got it right… Well, next to much nonsence…,” he said in disbelief to Yibo. “Where did they dig it out!?”

There were many more stories. 

Yibo usually didn't care but he was still curious about where and how his name appeared, so he asked. 

“What are they writing?”

Though, Zhan, who adopted embarrassed expression, just shook his head. 

“Nothing special, just bulshit,” he said and hid his mobile phone. 

Yibo looked quite doubtful but came to the conclusion that there was no reason to know. 

In the afternoon, they finally joined Chiang and the French delegation led them through the castle. They were talking about many filming details, tuning the script, costumes, sets and casting that was happening these days and Chiang was also taking part in it. They have already chosen some main protagonists. There were names like Astrid Berges Frisbey, Juliette Binoche, Sophie Marceau, Marion Cotillard, Romain Duris, Xavier Lafitte and Vincent Cassel but there were supposed to be many new unknown faces as well. 

Zhan came to Chiang, remembering something he once said. 

“So, who is that beauty?” he asked. 

Chiang immediately understood. 

“It's Astrid Berges Frisbey. She is an actress and model. She once played a mermaid in the Pirates of Caribbean. I am sure you know the movie.”

Zhan knew but he couldn't remember the face. So he took the mobile phone and found her. His eyes widened with surprise. She was really very charming. 

“She will be playing one of the main roles?”

“Yeh, and she will be in the picture a lot, shooting even in China.“

Zhan was observing her, he was sure she was a good actress but he didn't know her much, he was definitely going to find more info later. 

“Don't worry,” Chiang said, “She will be at the party, you can be introduced and make your own impression.”

“It would be great. I would be very pleased to meet her. We will cowork a lot, after all.”

Chiang nodded in agreement, “All the cast from France will be there, you and Yibo can meet new people...”

Zhan smiled and looked at Yibo. He was curious about his opinion and he was very surprised to find out that Yibo knew the actress. 

“I didn't know you are a fan of Pirates of Caribbean,” he said talkatively.

Yibo grinned. 

“I have been a fan of many movies with Johnny Depp.” 

“Really, didn't you take a photo with Keira Knightly some time ago? She also played there. Isn't she also French?” Zhan asked.

“Yes, I took the photo with her, but no, she is from Great Britain.”

They were following the guide who brought them through the whole area of one of the most beautiful and well preserved medieval castles in Europe and showed them all shooting spots. The director recalled several scenes that should be led in Carcassonne, but next to several shots from the period of fragile peace when the king sends his daughter abroad, political conversations and preparation of defence, most of them were from the fight during the attack. 

“We will still need to install a lot of sets for the shooting. But it will be in the hands of co-production,” Chiang explained. 

Zhan was enchanted by the medieval mood of the building. The high and wide walls had a majestic impact that would make many people kneel down in awe in front of the king of the realm. Real fortress. 

Yibo, on the other hand, was more interested in the outside views again. Not that he wouldn't like the place. But he would be able to cut the visit so that it lasted less than half of the time. He was already bored, seeing himself doing more exciting things. 

After seeing the castle, there was a meeting where the last details were tuned. Chiang, Zhan and Yibo met representatives of French co-production in the private conference room of one noble hotel in the new town of Carcassonne. It was a long meeting that took time till the evening and it was the most exhausting one. They took Zhan and Yibo to look at the casting of French actors as well and it was an interesting experience to see something they knew so well, but in another country. Zhan enjoyed it. Though, Yibo was interested for less than an hour before he started to be restless. After some time, senior started to be nervous as well. He chuckled and observed him with an amused expression. 

“You could hardly work in the office. Hold for a while. It won't be long already...”

Yibo tilted his head. 

“Even now it is already two hours longer than I am able to withstand.”

Zhan looked at him with widened eyes and sneered. 

“And where do you see yourself now, then?” 

Yibo squinted at him while he was partly listening to the producers. They were just finishing the last details of financial support. Then, Chiang and the chief producer stood up and they shook their hands in agreement. 

“... At least on a skateboard, if nothing else…,” Yibo whispered. 

Zhan smiled over the result of the meeting and leaned even closer to Yibo. 

“But the financial support is very generous,” he whispered in response. “It looks like you made a good impression.” He grinned.

Yibo knew that he was just teasing him. But nothing made him look so happy and satisfied like seeing everyone standing up. The end of the meeting was behind the corner. They shook hands with others and finally headed outside. 

It was already night and darkness covered the land. The city was bathing in the light from the street lamps and there was a night mood everywhere. 

Both Yibo and Zhan headed to the night streets again, discovering the rest of the city they hadn’t seen yet. Though, the news about them being in the medieval town already spread around and they had to hide away from the cameras of curious fans more and more.

In an effort to get out of the sight, Yibo took Zhan's sleeve and led him to the castle's courtyard to one of the back gates that was leading out of the historical center. It was one of the few places where they were still alone. Though, seeing the beautiful view of the castle and the walls around, Zhan slowed down and an idea came over his mind. His eyes of an artist saw the whole scene in front of him that reminded a fairytale. 

“Wait! This place is marvelous, I could paint you here,” he said suddenly.

Yibo gasped.

“What? Here and now?”

“Yes, there won't be many more opportunities. We will be hardly alone like now. I will use just crayons.”

Yibo slowed down as well, hesitating. But it was apparent he didn't want to give it the try.

“Oh, come on, I didn't even say I would really pose you. It's too late,” he tried to object. 

Though, Zhan was looking like life depended on that particular moment. “Come on, please! Just this time!”

For a moment hardly two breaths long, Yibo was not really sure what to do. He didn't want to but he didn't have the heart to refuse Zhan again. After a while of hesitation he finally agreed. His bag dropped down from his back to his arm and he put it to the side wall ready to comply. 

“And how should I pose?” he asked while he stepped into the middle. 

“I am not sure,” he said with his focus on   … come to me.” Zhan navigated him. “Closer … even closer, put one leg a bit in front of another… yeh, now, lift your chin a little and try to look up into the distance… fine, a bit more dreamy look… yeh, that is it.”

Yibo's lips twitched. 

There was just one last thing to make it perfect. Zhan came closer and adjusted his hair so that several black streams fell down to his forehead. Now, it was what he wanted. He felt a joyful feeling and a need for applause. 

“How long am I supposed to stand here like this?” Yibo asked while Zhan quickly picked up his equipment and found some place and position to paint. It was already dark but the lamps brought enough light to make a lovely composition with the enlightened castle in the background and the moon on the horizon. The result was mystical and romantic at the same time. 

“It won't take such a long time. I am working very quickly,” he explained. 

Yibo nodded. “Please, do it quickly or I will turn into a stone,” he replied. “... And someone could come.”

Zhan was focused on the painting, quickly swifting from it to Yibo and back. A mixture of lines slowly changed into shapes resembling the castle and a person with an athletic frame. 

“What are you going to do with the painting?” Yibo suddenly asked after a while. 

“Well, I might sell it on auction. If it was known that I painted it and there are you, who knows what would be the price.”

Yibo sneered. “If you are doing it because of that, then, I am not playing,” he replied, breaking the pose. 

Zhan’s grimace was full of disapproval. 

“Oh no! Stay as you were. I was just joking of course,” he lamented and walked there to help him get back to the pose. He gently took his chin with his right hand and lifted it up again. Seeing Yibo so close, his heart started to beat even quicker. 

He was perfect from a distance. But standing so close, he was enchanting. Zhan thought for a while that he should have painted his portrait. But he wanted the castle there and it would stay hidden behind his face.  This was also a lovely picture and it was enough for now. He diligently continued when a family with small children appeared on the horizon. When they saw them, they started to smile. The children were trying to communicate, pointing at Zhan but both Zhan and Yibo didn't understand French. Parents brought them away, looking after the two men with bemused expressions. Yibo sighed, imagining the headlines in the news. 

“Are you already finished?” he asked impatiently with his legs turning into a piece of wood. But when Zhan said he was working quickly he meant it.  

“Yes,” he replied.

Yibo widened his eyes. He was seriously surprised. No matter what he wished for, he didn't expect him to do the "job" so quickly.

“Really?”

Zhan laughed. 

“Yes, look,” he showed him the work. Most of the drawing was really finished. “This is enough for now. I will finish the rest later in the room. I don't need to be here any more for it.”

Yibo was looking at the picture with real admiration. But what surprised him the most was that Zhan changed his visage to historical as well. He painted him in historical cloth that fitted well with the background. The result was stunning even for him. 

His eyebrows were slightly furrowed while contemplating as usual - the expression Zhan loved. 

“It’s very nice,” Yibo finally praised the senior who was grinning. 

“When I think about it, could I take it?” he asked and grabbed the picture. Though, Zhan quickly moved it away from his hands, looking happy but obstinate. 

Yibo chuckled. “Do you want me to auction it?” he asked, amused while he was pushing his hand forward to grab it. But Zhan was always quicker.

He grinned. “And how much would you be willing to pay for it?”

He was still stepping back, trying to hide it from Yibo who started to fight him. 

Yibo grinned. “I won't tell.”

“Then, I will not give it to you. It's valuable for me,” Zhan said teasingly, continuing to struggle.

“Think so?” Yibo replied challengingly, stepping into the fight.

They were tugging, pushing, pulling and trying to overpower each other … till Yibo finally somehow  immobilized senior, clutching him in a tight embrace and holding his hand. He tried to catch the painting but he didn't presume where the last move would bring them. And now, he got nervous. 

They were standing with their bodies and faces so close that Zhan could feel Yibo's breath on his face. His heart started to pound so quickly that it was almost noisy and his cheeks turned scarlet. Though, even Yibo was out of sorts. Zhan's scent and closeness made him breathe quicker and shallower. He looked uncertainly into Zhan's eyes but exactly in the moment when the senior instinctively tilted his head and moved even closer under the spell of the moment, Yibo made a step back. 

They were so distracted that they didn't even notice the other pair coming in their direction. A young red haired girl and a blond boy were just coming around, curiously looking at them and slightly chuckling. Though they didn't say a word and continued on their way. 

When Zhan found Yibo again, his expression was not as soft and friendly as before. He became stern and strict like real Hanguang Jun. 

Zhan stumbled in reaction to his sudden mood swing. He wanted to say something but Yibo said it first. 

“I shouldn't have started this. I don't need the painting. Take it if you want. Now, we should go back.”

And before the senior could say a word, he turned and went in the direction to their hotel. 

The next day was already the last day of their mutual stay in Carcassonne. They went to the city to visit museums and drove to other castles - Chateau de Villerouge-Termenes and Puivert - they hadn't visited yet. But it was more from curiosity than work reasons. Chiang once again accompanied them all day. 

They were just going to the castle's gate when Zhan asked, interested in Yibo's future program. 

“Where are you going to climb and who is going with you?”

“I have met some climbers from France. One when I visited this place a year ago and another one now in China. We are going to try the nearest famous climbing routes here in France.”

“How long will you stay yet?”

“Just three days more…”

“And then?”

Yibo looked confused. 

“Then? I have a lot of work as usual. I will continue in all I have paused for now. Especially projects I am preparing for the new year's eve like new songs, dance performances…”

Zhan smiled. 

“Cool... and, what about the awards ceremonies, are you going to attend?"

Yibo slowed down, a bit surprised. He knew they were approaching but he somehow let it slip from his mind. It was apparent what Zhan implied. They were always avoiding each other in the past. What about now?

“Well, I suppose I would appear there … just for a while.”

Zhan seemed to be pleased. 

“Me as well, so I suppose we won't already schedule it so that we wouldn't meet there?”

Yibo hesitated. 

“Not intentionally. It still doesn't mean we will meet there. I will always come just for a while. It depends if you arrive at the same time.”

Zhan thought about it and nodded. But then, he mysteriously smiled. 

“And what about some meetings after work? We could do something together sometimes, hmm?” he suggested. “Not climbing, if you don't like …  and don't say no need !”

Zhan was full of expectation but Yibo was hesitating, as usual.

“I am not sure about that. But the shooting and reading of the script will be there sooner than you think."

Zhan looked at him disappointed but he respected it. Yibo was right, they would see each other quite early. But there would always be enough opportunities to see each other before the filming. He decided to change the topic. 

The last places of site seeing were also medieval and interesting but it was incomparable to Carcassonne. They returned enough in advance to get ready for the final meeting in the new town. When Yibo and Zhan saw each other again they both were lost for words, enchanted by their appearance. Every such moment was both disturbing and funny, at least in Yibo's eyes. But it was also stunning how two people might be so dazzling that they had a power to dumbfound each other so that they were not even able to say a word for a while. 

They both were wearing men’s suits. But while Zhan had it more decorated with ornaments and in the gold colour, Yibo's was more plain and black besides a silver brooch and tie. It was finally Zhan who gently smiled and greeted Yibo with a nod. Yibo quickly composed himself and greeted him as well.

There were already crowds of people waiting inside, indulging in festive fun. But it was the same team of people from the meeting who brought them into a discussion with other guests. 

Zhan immediately recognised the new faces around because they were famous French actors Chiang was talking about. 

The director Chiang immediately greeted them. 

For both Yibo and Zhan it was the first occasion to meet new acquitances. Yibo was much more taciturn and distinct and he looked like he was not much interested in the discussion. He was mostly only listening till something really took his attention. Zhan was the one who started the conversation with both men and women except the famous mermaid and his future french colleague Astrid Berges Frisbey. 

When he looked around he saw them all - the actors, who were very well known in Europe, but some of them might be not that well known for Asian people, because there was the trade so huge that it lived with its own life, without others. 

Juliette Binoche, Sophie Marceau, Marion Cotillard, Romain Duris, Xavier Lafitte, Vincent Cassel, all of them were now in the same hall curious about a chat with both young Chinese actors. Yibo was trapped with Juliette Binoche and Sophie Marceau while Zhan’s attention stole Astrid herself. 

She came to the bar and sat next to him, giving him one of her most charming smiles. 

“Hi there!” Astrid greeted him. 

“I have heard you are my most important future colleague, a man I will collaborate with the most. Pleasure to meet you.”

“Are you sure you don't have the wrong person? I didn't know I was that important,” Zhan joked and the girl laughed. 

“You are playing Wu Ning and your friend Li Nianzhen, aren't yo?”

“Yes, we are,” Zhan answered, amused. 

“Such handsome guys, seeing you, I have to protest. Why didn't they write my role to fall in love with one of you?”

It was just a short moment and she was already obviously flirting. Zhan laughed. 

“They didn't? What a shame! No overseas love. But you can still fall in love with us in real life,” Zhan joked boldly. 

Astrid's eyes sparkled but several other people joined them. Juliette Binoche came to the bar as well. 

“Your friend, Yibo, is so polite, it is a real pleasure to meet such nice and talented people,” she said and lifted her hand to introduce herself, though Zhan already knew her.

Romain Duris also intervened. “... I am curious about shooting here in France. It is just a shame I won't get to your country as well.”

Zhan smiled.

“Ah, but you are still welcome to see the shooting,” he reassured him and looked at the lovely girl next to him. 

“At least to see Astrid in action.”

The actress laughed. 

“I am so looking forward to my shooting days in China. It will be so much fun…”

They continued to talk but Zhan looked around and curiously listened to the conversation among Yibo, Xavier Lafitte and Vincent Cassel. 

They were unexpectedly talking about the motorbike and car rising. It was a very man-like conversation from which all girls rather ran away. Yibo was working like a magnet for everyone but he was too distant from girls and usually finished talking to men. It was something Zhan also couldn't miss. He, on the other hand, was like a fly trap for everyone. 

All of them made a group and walked to a bar where they mostly spent the rest of the night. They were laughing and their hosts were teaching the duo to drink french drinks. After two glasses of spirit even Yibo started to be more open but he was still much more restrained than Zhan who apparently enjoyed the party. He was talking with a group of girls who were permanently chit chatting and chuckling, apparently in a very elated mood. But his eyes often traveled to Yibo who was also surrounded by the group of admirers.

Junior was talking about very different topics, he didn't flirt or chatter. He was always willing to talk only about things he liked and was interested in, like his motorcycle, car driving and adrenaline sports. When he mentioned his upcoming climbing with friends, it excited even his future colleagues Xavier Lafitte and Roman Duris so much that they came up with the idea to join him. Yibo didn't refuse. It was a nice opportunity to get to know them better in other circumstances than the party. 

A moment later, Astrid came to greet him as well with another two girls from the casting. But they were among those who were not that famous yet. They couldn't even take their eyes off of Yibo. Astrid joined him and ordered another glass of Richard while the girls were circling around like a pair of predators on the hunt. 

“Are you enjoying the evening?” she asked Yibo. 

Junior smiled. “It was passable so far,” he said sincerely and Astrid started to laugh. She liked his straightforward attitude. 

“So it is right what they say about you.”

Yibo raised his eyebrows. 

“What do they say?”

“That you are handsome and lovely but you don't like parties, boredom and girls.”

Yibo froze for a while but then he couldn't help not to grin. 

“It's just another stupid nonsense. It is not right that I don't like parties and girls.”

Hearing this, another two ladies came closer.

“What about having a glass with us, then?” one of them replied. 

“You are such a cute man. It would be such a shame if you wouldn't like girls,” said another. They both giggled and Astrid chuckled as well. 

“It looks like you have got much more admirers here.”

Yibo sneered. “Too many, I am the loyal type, for me, one is enough.”

One of the french girls giggled again and flushed. “Ooooh, so cute!” And the other followed. “Did you hear him? Such a romantic man!”

Though, someone else’s attention was drawn. 

Yibo was already seriously thinking how to show them that he was not romantic at all when another male  voice reached his ears.  

“Are you stealing beautiful chics just for yourself, Lao-Wang?”

Zhan suddenly appeared next to them. As he staggered, he took all the girls around shoulders shamelessly and he even almost lost balance and fell on them. The girls helped him, chuckling. Though, Yibo was surprised. Zhan was not usually the one who didn't know his alcohol limits. 

“How many drinks did you already have, Zhan-ge?” the junior asked with sincere care.

“A lot… and, not enouuugh…”  Zhan replied, sat down and started to grin. “So, what are you doing here all night, hmm?”

Yibo deeply inhaled. 

“I thought the same as you. But apparently not. You are drunk.”

Zhan looked at him with his eyes moised but he was still sober enough to talk and think. Yibo ordered him a glass of water and some snacks.  

“Here, take this, you …“

Zhan grinned and raised his brow. “You? you who?”

However, Yibo stayed silent and Zhan started to chuckle again. Then, he looked at the girls who were observing him with enamorated expression. 

“What’s up girls? Will you have one small snorter with me?” He challenged them. 

“And will your handsome friend also have one?” asked one of the girls challengingly. 

They were still sober enough, much more than Zhan was. The two girls on the hunt night. 

Yibo snorted and shook his head. 

“I don't think you should have any other drink at all,” he said reproachfully. His reply induced only disappointed reactions but none was so annoyed as the one of Zhan. 

He was in playful mode and Yibo spoiled it for him. But he immediately came with another way to enjoy the fun and even impress the girls around. 

He came to Yibo and took him around his shoulder. “Hey, bro, what about having an arm-wrestle with me?”

Yibo was surprised by this challenge. 

He was quite proud of his sturdy body but Zhan's masculine body from wellness appeared before his eyes and he was not sure about winning. Only one thing was sure. He didn't want to lose. His eyebrows rose and he looked at Zhan, amused. 

“I won't arm-wrestle with you here and now, when you are drunk. Save your strength to even get back to your bed,“ he said, sneering. 

But Zhan’s self-assured expression didn't disappear even for a while. “Ah, you lier, you are just afraid,” he sneered and Yibo's lips twitched. 

“Nonsence. Zhan-ge, you are so drunk you are already losing your sense of coordination. You will lose.”

“Then, better for you, hm?”

However, Yibo chuckled again. “Do you think I want to win like this?”

“Ahh, brooo, I am ok, I can still focus, don't be afraid,” Zhan continued with devilish sparks in his eyes. He was apparently very excited.

Yibo wanted to refuse but Zhan and even the girls started to tease him and he couldn't withdraw without looking like a coward. 

“Fine, for three rounds,” he finally agreed and Zhan chuckled. 

“Fine.”

They both stood up and went to the nearest table, sat down and took their hands. Zhan's heart pounded more quickly for a while as his fingers tangled with Yibo's. He couldn't help but ask himself if Yibo felt the same. 

“Come here, Yibo and Zhan are going to have a match. It will be fun!” called one of the girls and brought everyone’s attention to their group. 

Many people started to walk closer. It was something that even Chiang apparently wanted to see. After accompanying them, he was really curious who would win. 

Zhan was apparently restless while Yibo focused as much as he could. There was that his usual thoughtful look in his eyes. 

“Astrid, can you count it down for us please? Zhan asked the beautiful French girl who was standing near them. 

“Of course, avec plaisir!” she replied in half english, half french. 

“Fine,” Zhan said still with that mysterious smile. Now, he could see only their arms and Yibo's black, deep eyes. Beautiful eyes.

“Are you ready?”

Yibo sneered. “Always.”

“Ok boys, prepare …. Three, two, one, GO!”

The moment she said go, they both gritted their teeth and clenched their fingers around their opponent’s ones till it hurt. The veins in their neck bulged from the effort. Zhan's breath quickened and his heart started to rise as he did all his best to overpower Yibo … and he was even successful for the moment. Everyone was cheering and chanting their names. But the strength of his opponent was also enormous. And after a while of unbearable effort, he finally resigned. 

His mouth was dry and he felt a big urge to drink. He took the glass of water Yibo bought him and drank while Yibo observed him with a victorious smile. 

“Good job, bro,” he said admirably.

“Did you at least struggle?” Zhan asked. 

If he wasn't mostly drunk he could have seen the answer. Yibo had what to do to overpower Zhan and he knew that he didn't have the victory in his pocket yet. But he had an expression of a poker player, unwilling to admit his true feelings. He drank as well and prepared for the second round. 

“Three, two, one, GO!”

The mood in the room went wild. They were fighting so long that they started to sweat. 

“Yibo! Yibo! Zhan! Zhan, go for it! … Yibo! … Yiboooooooo! Nooo!”

“ZHAAAAAAN! Yeeees!”

Even Chiang was celebrating this time. 

“Great job, mate! You will do that!” he called and gained a furrowed look from Yibo, who was hardly breathing.

It was finally Zhan who won this time. The hall burst with applause and cheer.

They were even. 

But the last round would decide everything. 

Zhan was mysteriously smiling at Yibo again. But Yibo's expression was uncompromising. It was a look of a beast, focused to win and survive or die. At least this impression had Zhan from him and he couldn't help not to laugh deep inside. 

Yibo didn't want to lose but he was a very dangerous opponent, indeed. Should he do all his best to win? 

“Three, two, one …. GO!”

Both boys used their max strength, so much that it almost made them stand up from the chairs. Yibo was gritting his teeth so much it was almost audible. But Zhan was already shaking like a sewing machine. He might try his best, but he was already desperately tired, his arm hurt and he was drunk. So he resigned. 

“YIBOOOOOO!”

The winner was junior. 

He was happy but still admirably patted the senior on his back. 

“You were excellent, Zhan-ge. You didn't lose at all,” he said and meant it. Zhan replied with a bit painful grimace. 

“And what was the price?” someone called.

It surprised the boys. There was no price arranged but now, when he thought about it, Zhan called. 

“The loser pays for drinks for the winner! We will have a drink together!”

Everyone started to laugh besides Yibo.

“Do you really think you should still drink?” he inquired wryly. 

But Zhan just rolled his eyes. “Of course. If I was drunk, this experience made me absolutely sober,” he replied and chuckled. 

Yibo let him plead for a while but then he agreed. “Fine then, but just one!”

“But you must have it with me,” Zhan insisted. 

Yibo didn't refuse or oppose. After a while, two other snorters landed on the bar. 

"I didn't know you were working so much on your strength. You are not a dancer or climber. Is that just to look good on the screen?” Yibo asked chattily. 

Zhan laughed. “It's because nice girls like boys with sturdy bodies,” he chuckled, observing Yibo's face, but then, he explained. “No, I am kidding. I just wanted to be fit… I am working out every single day.”

“You apparently did a good job.”

Zhan grinned. “To tell the truth I usually win now. You are the first person after a long time who I was not able to overpower.”

Yibo chuckled. “Well, no shame, we were almost even.”

Zhan nodded and threw the spirit inside. 

Yibo widened his eyes, seeing him.

“Whooo, geez, drink it slower!”

Though Zhan only snorted and challenged him to drink his own instead. 

Zhan was actually nervous. 

There was the vision of them parting their ways tomorrow and too many unanswered questions. He was observing Yibo with a serious expression and Yibo noticed it. He gulped the last bit of the spirit and asked. 

“Has something happened?”

Zhan hesitated. 

He was not sure about what he was going to do but, strengthened with the alcohol and deprived of any restraints, he finally asked. 

“Can I have a question?”

Yibo stopped the motion, surprised.

“It depends on what the question is about.”

Zhan chuckled. 

“There is just one thing that startles me … after what you have said in Hong Kong … about me and You … I am surprised that you haven't started where you finished.”

He paused but junior looked confused so he continued. 

“We are in Europe, France, the country without limits … considering relationships. I am just surprised you didn't try anything, that is all. But I understand that you have probably lost interest.”

Yibo finally understood. For a while, he became silent and it was time that was more uncomfortable for Zhan than any other moment. But then, he sighed and explained. 

“No, I just… changed my mind.”

Zhan’s eyebrows rose but Yibo continued.

“That night, I was talking about what was…” he replied and when he could see that Zhan didn't understand, he added, “Not what is now… And it was also about what you said. You have confided that you want a real relationship but all my relationships are just situationships... I just think we are different and we want something else. It wouldn't work.”

Zhan didn't even blink. When Yibo finally finished he looked away. 

It was not hard to understand what he was talking about. Feelings were variable. Once they were and next they flew away on the river of unfulfilled dreams. Senior’s expression was not disappointed, emotion like that appeared only as a very short, hardly noticeable shadow over his generally happy expression. What remained was just indifference. 

“Ah, so it was but it isn't any more? I understand,” he said for a while. “ What can be done...”

He smiled but that smile was forced. It took him some time to process all words and feelings, nevertheless, when he did, it made him feel a bit lighter.

So what? Yibo didn't have time for a relationship and he didn't have it as well. Why even care?

But deep inside, it still hurt. 

He stood up from the bar, pretending that nothing happened and looked at Yibo, hoping that none of them would remember the conversation the next day. But something came over his mind. He pointed at him.

“And you know what, it is even better. Because then I can have any beautiful girl here without any regret. I bet with you that I will get whoever I want. Give me just five minutes!” he mumbled in a drunken voice. “Just choose one, hm?”

Yibo froze. 

“Zhan, that is not …” he started but the senior didn't let him finish. 

“Come on… the blond? Or that ginger beauty? What about her?”

Yibo couldn't help not to smile. But it was not a sort of a happy smile. “Shouldn't it be you who would make such a decision?” he asked seriously. 

Zhan narrowed his eyes and looked around. “Fine,” he said wryly. But then, he lifted finger into the air and called. “Two more snorters please!”

He grabbed the drinks and took it to one of the girls from before who was squinting at them all the time they were talking. It didn't take five minutes. It didn't take even a half of one and she was his. They both. And even more.

Zhan started to dance, having flawless fun and bought another alcohol in the effort to get them all drunk. Only Yibo refused and observed it all from a distance. And when Zhan ordered the third, this time even glass, and started to dangerously flirt with the girl who apparently had her own intentions with him for the upcoming night, Yibo intervened. 

“That is enough!” he said firmly. “Sorry girls but my friend is apparently drunk, as you can see. I will take him away. You can see him in the morning.”

The girls started to quarrel and even Zhan was not happy about it at all but Yibo was determined enough not to let his friend make a mistake in his life. He might be willing now but he was sure that his mind could very quickly change in the morning, when he would get sober. 

Yibo led them both out of the hall and discretely tried to get into their hotel to bring the senior into his room. 

Zhan was partly shooing him away and partly chuckling all the time. But when they came to the hotel he was able to playfully fight with Yibo even for the keys. There was a pair of French people in the corridor who were looking at them with bemused expressions. However, Yibo apologised and led Zhan to room number 24. It was on the second floor near the stairs and he was so busy that he couldn't control what was happening outside. 

When he finally managed to open the door and close them again, he took Zhan to his bed. 

Senior was still murmuring something but Yibo didn't understand till he finally looked directly at him and reproached him. “Lao-Wang, you are so boooring. You have spoiled the fun!”

Yibo ignored him and pushed him to bed, helped him up and took his shoes down. Zhan was still shooing his hands away.

“A boring dude… puppy…!” Zhan continued, apparently angry. 

“You have spoiled everything!”

He was still pushing Yibo who became restless, waving with his hands till junior had enough. 

“Stop it already!” he reprimanded him and pinned his hands on the mattress. But he was unyielding. And as Zhan laid in bed, he finally closed eyes and calmed down. 

Junior was looking at his handsome face that was now resembling Wei Wuxien even more and his lips curved into a slight soft and warm smile. But Zhan suddenly opened his eyes and looked directly at him. As he was observing his features, his eyes suddenly widened. 

“This is that look,” he said in half whisper, pointing one finger at him. 

Yibo didn't understand. 

“What look?” he asked, amused.

“T..that look, from that photo.”

“What photo?” Yibo asked bewildered.

But Zhan didn't respond. 

He meant the photo he once used for his painting. That one with a tender expression and soft smile, a smile he fell in love with. 

But he didn't say that aloud. Instead, he just sighed and asked in a warm tone.

“What were you thinking about?” 

Yibo slowed his breath for a while, thinking. But he didn't answer. 

He just tugged Zhan’s blanket to his chin and smiled again. “Go to sleep.”

And after a while when Zhan finally fell into a deep slumber, he crawled out of the room. 

Chapter Text

The next day in the morning it was already time for Zhan's and Chiang’s departure. They had enough time till the flight and after a very busy program in the last days, they really enjoyed the calm morning start. 

It was already almost 9 o’clock. Yibo met Chiang at breakfast but Zhan was still missing. The breakfast was made in the form of a buffet with scrambled eggs, several kinds of cheeses, hams and sausages, a lot of vegetables, and sweet bread, cereals with milk or yogurt, honey, coffee or juice - all that was neatly laid out on the serving tables. 

Yibo added some eggs, ham and sausages with vegetables on his plate and then came back for a very strong cup of coffee. He was not that drunk yesterday but even so couldn't sleep well after the night and he woke up several times. 

Chiang sat down next to him. “I fell in love with European breakfasts,” he announced suddenly and made Yibo smile. 

“Yeh, I like them too… what do you like about them the most?”

“I like their coffee, cheeses and bread the most, especially the sweet one,” Chiang praised with a smile.

Yibo didn't share his opinion. “Hm, I am not much into sweets,” he replied, enjoying his eggs with sausages and ketchup. 

“Did you enjoy yesterday's party?” Chiang asked suddenly after observing him for a while.  Yibo just nodded in agreement. He didn't want to say that it is not exactly his cup of tea but it looked like Chiang saw much more than what was apparent on the outside. “You had quite a lot of fun. Even that arm-wrestle was interesting to watch,” he continued. 

Yibo just nodded and swiftly glanced at the man in front of him. “You didn't root for me,” he replied indifferently but there was still a slight trace of reproach. 

Chiang laughed. “Even though we got to know each other quite well lately, you can always choose just one. Of course I would choose Zhan. He is my old friend and colleague and now even my assistant director. He is a good man.”

Yibo’s expression stiffed and he fell silent. After a while, he asked. 

“You didn't tell him why am I here, did you?”

Chiang shook his head. “No, I didn't and he cleverly didn't ask. But I think he at least surmised the reason.”

Yibo nodded. “And, what is your verdikt then? How did we do?,” he asked curiously. 

Chiang furrowed in contemplation. “I have decided I will still give you a chance. Especially after yesterday's night. You helped Zhan to, let's call it … safety. It was actually considerate.”

“So I am still in?”

“Yes. Even though I think you are staying because of something else than the role itself.”

Yibo slightly froze, surprised. “I am not sure what you are implying,” he said, this time sincerely bewildered.

Chiang sighed and explained himself in a very low voice, “You, young boys, can't fool me. I am not blind. I can see there is something very personal between Zhan and you. But I am afraid that if you don't feel the same, you will be just hurting each other. You should have really refused the role in time when things were like this. Now, it is already too late. We would just stir up the fire. Don't make it worse.”

Yibo gasped. 

He agreed at least with Chiang’s last request. But even when he nodded he felt bitter. Why should it be always him who was in the wrong? What about their careless decisions? He pressed his lips and shook his head. Then communicated his thoughts, “You will stir the fire up with something else. You shouldn't have casted Tian Xu Ning and Huang Xing.”

Chiang smiled. “I understand your worries but they are not dangerous for the show. We have consulted it in advance and even got the permission. Or, is there something else you are afraid of?”

“Yes, there is. I have sworn to not play in any drama that has features of BL or Bromance or is based on it again. This might not be the case but It’s not both comfortable and safe for me to play with actors who were playing in BL dramas.” The thought that at least one of them was even rumoured to not be straight came to his mind but he didn't say it aloud. “It's safe for Zhan even less after what happened.”

Chiang shook his head in disagreement. 

“Yibo, this drama is just brotherly. There is nothing on the screen you should be afraid of. Nothing will happen if you all behave reasonably. Don't be so afraid of the past. All storms usually get over,” Chiang answered calmly with an observing look aimed at Yibo. But after some time, he continued with his eyebrow raised. “Though, the question is what exactly are you afraid of. The drama won't lead Zhan to lose his good face or career, but I can hardly guarantee Zhan not to lose his heart for someone from the casting.”

Yibo was just picking a piece of bacon with his fork but those words surprised him so much that it didn't reach his mouth. His hand froze in mid-motion.

Chiang had just one thought on his mind - when Zhan might feel an affection for one coworker he might feel it for another as well. But he was not sure if this was how Yibo felt. He just opened the topic for the case. 

Understanding his statement, Yibo froze, embarrassed. He felt too awkward to hold eye contact. “Ah, that is not what I meant,” he said lukewarmly after several breaths. 

“Really?” Chiang inquired a bit impatiently. He had already finished his breakfast and was ready to leave. “In any case, I think I have responded to your remarks. Now, the time to part has arrived but we will see each other soon enough, I believe. I wish you a good trip across France.”

He patted Yibo on his shoulder while the junior stood up and bowed. 

When Chiang was on his way from the dining room, Zhan met him at the door. He finally woke up and came to the continental breakfast as well.

The senior didn't look well. He apparently had a headache and felt sick. Chiang immediately cared about his health but Zhan just said he was going to be ok and didn't want to talk about it. 

“I will come immediately after breakfast. It will be quick, I am not going to eat much. But I need to fill my empty stomach. It hurt so much,“ he explained, touching his disturbed belly with a dispirited expression. He even tried to joke but it didn't work out well in such a state of mind. 

Chiang nodded and glanced at Yibo. “Have as much time as you need,” he said nicely and left. 

Yibo was the only person Zhan would apparently rather avoid. The mood between them was tense and embarrassing but he could hardly ignore him, so, when he puted the food on his plate and junior was not leaving, he sat down in front of him. He was much more stern and distant than a day before at the party. 

Yibo immediately understood that Zhan's wish from the previous night didn't come true. Not only he remembered everything but he knew that Yibo knew, even those things he didn't want him to remember. He was carefully looking at him, thinking about the best way to talk, till he simply asked, “Did you sleep well?”

Zhan nodded. “Not bad. I didn't even know about myself till six o’clock when I woke up,” he replied without looking at the junior. Though, after a while of reflection he continued. 

“Why are you still here? Weren't you supposed to leave with your friends?” 

It was such an indifferent question that it surprised Yibo. He had a feeling Zhan hoped he would not meet him there at all. 

“I am leaving in 15 minutes. After the breakfast.”

“Your friends… they are already waiting?”

“Not yet. They would call.“

“Ah, but you don't have to stay with me here. Just go to get ready. Don't let them wait,” Zhan said lazily in response. 

There was no point in explaining to the senior that he was already packed. Yibo felt uncomfortable about Zhan's recent behaviour but Chiang's words came to his mind and he came to the conclusion that there was no point in talking about it and stirring the things up even more. 

“Fine,” he replied in a low voice. “See you later Lao-Xiao.”

Zhan swept a quick glance at him and nodded. “See you later,” he repeated, watching Yibo leave.

Junior went to pick up his things.

After a while a car called him outside and he started to bring his baggage to the car trunk. He was not able to take all the three begs in one go so he took some and for the rest came with a friend. But when he returned, he remained standing dumbstruck, because there was something more on the pile of baggage. Something that was not there before. 

It was a piece of paper from a sketchbook with the picture of Yibo, the one Zhan painted. It was not hard to understand who put it there. But the question was why and Yibo had a feeling the reason was not friendly. He just gave away what was superfluous. A gesture of disaffection. 

His friend saw it too and immediately took it, admiring its excellent quality. “This is so stunning! I didn't know you were interested in some paintings. I would have recommended you my sister’s services a long time ago. But this might be even better. Did you ask some street painter to paint you in Carcassonne? There used to be so many painters in these old cities…”

Yibo stayed silent. 

Even when he thought that the comparison fitted quite well, he just shook his head. He felt uncomfortable about what just happened but didn't want to talk or think about it any more. The picture ended up in the trunk as well and Yibo closed it with a deep sigh. Then, the doors of the car closed and they drove away for upcoming adventures. 

Meanwhile, Zhan was standing in his room by the window, watching the car leaving. He was speechless, though, that state lasted for just a very short time. With Yibo leaving, he quickly gained his previous peace. He calmly turned around and headed to his packed baggage to take it to the car as well but as he was lost in thoughts he didn't notice a person standing in the doors. 

It was over and the time of departure came even for Zhan and Chiang. The director continued to Norway with the same intention he came to France - to look for localities and to make last arrangements, maybe even get some financial support. Though someone else was supposed to accompany him this time. Zhan had to return to his country to continue on his upcoming projects. 

“Is everything alright?” Chiang asked and surprised him. Zhan widened his eyes and opened his mouth, dumbstruck. But he quickly composed himself again. 

“Ahh, yeh, jeh, jeh… nothing happened,” he said, distracted. “I am just on the way down.”

Chiang smiled. “It's very painful for me to say goodbye. I enjoyed the stay with you very much. Though the work is calling and there is still so much to do.”

Zhan just shook his head and returned him his courtesy. “No, it was an honor for us to assist you,” he said quickly. “I am so sorry that I can't continue with you to Norway, but my busy schedule just requires my presence elsewhere."

“The meeting was very successful as well as the trip. Thank you for your help,” Chiang replied. “Now, you can go home with a calm mind and heart. You have worked hard.” 

Zhan smiled. “I did nothing. It was mostly your achievement.”

“You did the most important thing. You made a great impression, both of you did.”

Zhan sighed, he didn't agree. “You are too kind to us. You have advised us well but we didn't learn from that. I am sorry. It was just luck that the meeting was before the party, at least…”

Chiang raised his eyebrows. He was there so he understood what he was talking about and he knew that Zhan felt awkward about it, nevertheless, it was just a little bit of a spicy fun for others. There was still something on his mind though and now, it seemed a right moment to ask. And he didn't beat around the bush any more.  “Zhan, are you ok about cooperating with Yibo? You and him … are …”

But senior just slightly snorted.

“We are ok, don't worry. We are very well able to cooperate.”

Zhan said it very decisively but Chiang seemed to be doubtful. He stroked his chin and deeply inhaled. 

“I just had a feeling that you might not feel comfortable around him. If that is the case I would like to know. Good relationships on the set are important, they lead to…”

“They lead to better performance on the set, I know,” Zhan finished for him. He paused before continuing but he knew it too well. After a while he started to talk in a slower, reflective voice.

“You know, there are a lot of people who think that me and Yibo made a great, almost flawless team on shooting the untamed. That we got along perfectly and just teased each other all day… but it is not right at all. There were such moments, but there were a lot of conflicted moments as well and who watched it well, saw it. Sometimes we permanently get on each other's nerves, haha.” Zhan chuckled and Chiang smiled. “But among all that bickering, there was always sincere affection and admiration for each other.” 

He paused but Chiang still was not sure where his companion was aiming to. When senior saw his confused expression, he explained. 

“I just wanted to say that we have always supported each other and we will. These fights among us are not important. Don't be afraid. We will always find a way to settle our relationship.”

This was what Chiang needed to hear and he finally calmed down. “Well then. I believe you. I can finally leave with a light conscience as well.”

He patted Zhan on his back. 

After a while of exchanging general courtesies, they said goodbye and finally parted. 

Zhan returned to Beijing the next day in the evening, tired after a long flight. His apartment was exactly as he left it. Just the flowers needed to water again. 

Even though he liked traveling he was glad to be back home. The first place he headed to before unpacking his things was to take a shower but he was hungry and got his noodles prepared while unpacking his things. He might have left it for tomorrow but he liked the order and there was no reason to postpone it for later. It would just impede him from other activities. 

When all was ready and his noodles were prepared, he took it to the living room and ate it while listening to TV. 

The first program he found was news but it was full of usual politics and pre-festival chaos and he was not in the mood to watch it so he changed it to a more leisure channel. That channel was about cooking. 

Zhan loved cooking and he liked inspiring himself as well. There were just tips for duck recipes that attracted his attention and he even took a notebook into his hand to write the notes. But a mobile rang afterwards. 

He finished his notes and quickly looked at it. Though, the words surprised him. 

Look at the news on the entertainment channel. 

There was a chennel informing about the entertainment world but Zhan was surprised that someone would send him such a message and he even became afraid that something happened. For a very short time a terrible thought even came over his mind - that something happened to Yibo. But the reason was very different.

It was really about Yibo as well, but it was even more about him. The Internet was slowly filled with news about their mutual trip already in the last days of their stay in France. But the more it came into account the more they were watched and the last night didn't get out of sight as well. Even though it was not possible for the public to enter the party, there was still someone who shot various scenes on camera even there, especially the arm-wrestling. The media were filled with videos from Yibo's and Zhan's entertaining interactions at the party and the arm-wrestling video was spreading across the world. Many other videos got into world social media as well. But the most surprising was the one he thought no one had - with Yibo leading Zhan into his private room. 

And that was the reason why his coworker from Xiao Zhan's studio sent him the message. Because that video was the one that became an utter sensation. 

It found its way quickly even to the social media and TV of his country and the usually steady virtual waters changed into the ocean after the wildstorm. Zhan looked at several threads about it and rolled his eyes. But he was dumbstruck. It was the first time he could see footage from that night with his own eyes - himself drunk, teasing Yibo, friendly (fortunately but maybe a bit more) provoking him and playfully fighting him for the keys. He was in such an elated mood that he almost fell while doing that and pulled down Yibo as well. But the junior was apparently very strong and he managed to hold his balance. Yibo was reprimanding him but it was in vain. 

Seeing all those scenes was better than any reality show and he understood why everyone loved it. But he didn't want to know what Yibo would say about that. 

Oh no! he thought. 

He widened his eyes and then hid his face in hands, feeling embarrassed, even though it apparently became the best joke of the day. But this was not enough. 

Everyone was talking about Yibo himself leading Zhan into the room and what became the biggest sensation were rumours about what happened there when the doors closed. For those who shipped Zhan and Yibo, it was the best day of their lives. They were imagining many things, but there were many people who came with other theories like that he just took him inside and then left - they were seeing it just as a friendly gesture. And there were fans that fell into fan wars again. 

Many people started to look for some evidence like some detectives till someone came with another video that followed Yibo while leaving the room. It worked as an evidence that he didn't spent there the night but there was still that approximately 15 minutes they were inside and people started speculate what they were doing inside for “so long” and what could they even manage to do. The CP fans were looking for whatever evidence of some intimacy between them, even some pacifier on Yibo's neck, while others became red with anger and the third, neutral group of fans just paled over that mania and shook their heads. 

And Zhan paled as well. He was thinking what to do about that but his partly rough nature couldn't stop him from chuckling. No one could deny it was quite grotesque. 

Other calls and messages started to arrive on Zhan's phone but he mostly didn't unswer. He just called his mum to calm her down and opened the last one. 

Xiongdi, I can see you had a fruitful trip to France but I can't wait to hear more! Let's meet. What about lunch tomorrow at 12:00?

It was from Li Qin. 

Zhan smiled. They had already talked about the meeting before his trip to France. But he felt real need and gratitude when he imagined talking to her. He took the phone and wrote the answer. 

Agree! Tomorrow at 12:00 at Gazebat bistro. I’d love to see you, yieyie

He put the mobile down with a smile and looked at the news again with a feeling of disbelief. There was not a single information about Yibo climbing on the rock. 

How did he do that? Zhan thought. Did Yibo threaten anyone he would make them climb up the rock as well if they took a picture of him? He wouldn't even be surprised but it was evident they were not going to see each other for some time. And he didn't mind due to the circumstances because Yibo would probably kick his ass if he saw him. There were so many things on his mind. 

Zhan spent the next few days in the recording studio by recording songs into his new album that was supposed to come out in the new year. It took him all the morning till the time of lunch when he met Li Qin. 

The meeting was in a business center in one of the modern restaurants with a terrace which was closed because it was very cold outside. Zhan was relaxed and happy. He slept well after the flight and felt a slight thrill when waiting for his companion. His bodigard was accompanying him even here but he stayed in distance when they came into the restaurant and a beautiful girl appeared in the doors. 

Li Qing was a stunning young actress. For Zhan one of the best and the most beautiful. But she was very elegant and mature as well. The more they cooperated and the older they were they were more in sync. They had so many things in common and their relationship was so strong and unconflictual that he already saw her as his best female friend. Maybe even a bit more. They were calling to each other and chatting quite regularly but seeing each other face to face was dependent on their busy schedule. 

Zhan sat down at the reserved table and Li Qin came shortly afterwards. She was wearing a lovely red shirt with black trousers and a winter cloak in the color of coffee. Their eyes sparkled in the moment they saw each other. 

“Qin, you look awesome!” Zhan immediately praised her fashion style and stood up. She came closer and kissed him on his cheeks. 

“Thank you very much, you look awesome as well,” she replied without hesitation. 

Even Zhan was in his stylish clothes from TODs and he really looked grate. “... This travelling over lunch time… I hope you didn't have to wait too long. There was huge traffic in the city as usual. It was even a problem to get here,” she continued.

Zhan chuckled. “Yeh, I didn't think about this. We might choose a different meeting place next time. But the most important thing is that you are here.”

Li Qin laughed. “I couldn't miss the meeting. I am terribly curious about your late days. There is still some interesting news about you lately,” she said with an amused expression and winked at him. Zhan grimaced. 

“Did you already order a meal?” she asked. 

“No, not yet. I was waiting for you.”

They spent the next time choosing the meal and ordered when the waiter came. Li Qing chose just chinese chicken soup and spring rolls. Zhan went with the chicken kung pao for a change. When the waiter left, Li Qin gently touched Zhan's hand and patted it.

“So, tell me, how have you been in France? Where did you go and what have you seen? I am so curious.”

She was excited and her interest was serious. Li Qin also loved traveling abroad. She had been to Europe before but just for a very short time and for some special occasions. She almost envied Zhan on this trip. If she could, she would go with him. But she already had different plans that didn't allow her to go. 

Zhan told her everything about their stay, even the episode with his first climbing experience, during which she just yelped and covered her mouth with her hand. 

“You really fell from the cliff??? That is terrible! It must have been a terrifying experience for both you and Yibo.” There were many theories about this unpleasant story but she thought it was just a rumour. “It sounded just too crazy for it to be real…” she continue. “Did you hurt yourself?”

“Yeh, I did but fortunately it was not that bad. I remember myself falling and then nothing. And when I opened my eyes and woke up I heard Yibo's terrified voice calling my name. He came for me and led me away. I was so grateful. My head was aching and spinning…”

This all was the part of the story no one knew. Even if it became known that Zhan hurt himself while climbing, no one knew any details. 

Li Qin almost forgot to breathe from the tense. “It must have been terrible for you, but Yibo as well. I would be out of my wits with fear if something like that happened to me!

Zhan sighed. “It was, I suppose, he even refused to climb with me again,” he explained and slightly chuckled.

“I am not surprised. I would probably never step on the rock again. After such an experience,” Li Qin continued but Zhan just sneered. 

“That can't happen to Yibo. There is nothing that could discourage him.”

Li Qin smiled. She knew Yibo. He was invincible even by fear. 

“And you are even willing to climb after what happened? You are not afraid?”

Zhan laughed. “Of course I am. I just don't like fears and how to face them but doing the activity? It was just bad luck. But that is not important.”

He had enough of thinking about the past. Instead, he put his hand into his handbag and picked up the earrings. “I brought you something,” he explained and gave the present to Li Qin. She was surprised but apparently pleased. When she opened it and saw the jewellery she was stunned. 

“Oooooooh, Zhan, they are so wonderful,” she said with excitement, closely observing them, sparkling in her hands. “Thank you very much,”

she finished, really happy and kissed him again. 

“They are from Carcassonne. I was hesitant about the color but I hope I took it right. I think this color suits you.”

“They are brilliant. I love both yellow or orange. Did you choose them?”

“Yes. There was only Yibo with me but he…” Zhan paused for a while, remembering their discussion and quickly glanced at her.“... He didn't care about the jewellery at all. He was no help.”

Li Qin laughed. “Yeh, I know him well, he really doesn't care about such things at all,” she replied leisurely. “He is a sportsman, not such a gallant type.”

Zhan, redirected to the history in Carcassonne, remembered something. Li Qin knew Yibo also well. There was something he wanted to ask but he didn't know how to do that discretely. After a while of thinking, he inquired.

“You were working together on one drama, right? When you were shooting with Yibo, was there someone … seeing him?”

Li Qin was perplexed. “Seeing him? Do you mean if there was someone who would come to see him regularly? Well, I think that the only such person was his manager,” she said amused. “He was always so busy and focused on his hobbies.”

Li Qin looked amused again. But she was gentle when she talked about Yibo and he had a feeling they must have been good friends. 

“Why?” she asked suddenly.

Zhan just shook his head. “It's nothing important. Just something we were talking about.”

Li Qing raised her brows but Zhan was not about to talk, she lost interest. 

“And what was that about that party and the night adventure with Yibo? Everyone is talking about it,” she asked instead.

Zhan’s smile faded. When Li Qin saw him, the lips of her mouth twitched. 

“Ah, well, this adventure … I don't even know how it happened. Really … It doesn't happen very often that I get drunk. The alcohol must have been unexpectedly strong,” he said.

Li Qin’s eyes sparkled again in suppressed joy. “It was nice of Yibo that he cared for you like that,” she said. 

Zhan just slightly nodded. But it was an awkward nod. It was strange to hear her talking about them like this. It was strange to hear anyone talking about them at all. After those years…

Zhan grimaced thinking about the fact that Yibo and everything that has lately happened around him was the reason why he ended up like that. But yeh, he couldn't blame him for that. When he later returned in his thoughts back in time to the moment of discussion with Yibo, Zhan thought that he might not understand him well. When Zhan was talking about real relationships he just wanted to say that he meant it seriously, not just as a flirt. He wanted to be in an exclusive relationship. But he didn't expect them to live together or see each other every day. It was not possible in their conditions and he knew that. His image of relationship was also very free-like, maybe much more than Yibo thought. Junior behaved like he thought Zhan would tie him up and saved only for himself. 

He just smiled and nodded. “I suppose it was. Now, I am glad he did it,” Zhan said, imagining where he would end up if he didn't. And with who…

Would he be willing to go with those girls under the influence of the spirit and heightened emotions, let any of them bring him into the hotel room? He was still quite sober but he was not sure. Would he even do something stupid himself? 

Yibo could just easily leave. He was not responsible for his behavior. But he decided to stay and safely bring him to his room instead and Zhan was grateful. 

Li Qin smiled. “I was thrilled when the offer for the role came. I am so much looking forward to shooting with you and Yibo. Is there any chance to already see each other more often and cooperate?”

With this question Zhan's mind left the previous topic and he started to focus on work. 

“... Just to finally meet each other and get to know each other with other actors?” she added.

Zhan smiled. “Even though the filming is still far away, there will be many. There are going to be costume preparations where we could meet together, then an etiquette and history authenticity workshop, horse riding and martial arts classes where we will train the choreographies and also script reading where all the cast will be together. And then some teambuilding events, maybe. But this will all be in the new year. The earliest are upcoming award ceremonies. We can see each other there.”

Li Qin was excited. 

“Though, I am going there with my colleague Zhou Yu Tong,” Zhan continued. “Though we might see each other there.”

Everyone was usually visiting these events with the colleagues from dramas they were nominated for but they also used it for getting to know colleagues from upcoming dramas. Zhan was almost sure that he could hardly meet Yibo there. For him it was just a responsibility he left in the moment he could. But he might at least see others. 

“I am also going there with my colleagues from Fated Hearts but we can at least see each other and have a chat. It’s on Saturday," Li Qin explained. 

Zhan smiled. “Of course, I will be glad to see you there.”

Next, Li Qin told him about what she was doing lately and they were enjoying their company for the rest of the time. When Zhan returned back to the recording studio, he was in a good mood. 

When he was later leaving the work, Yibo's social media were already full of photos from climbing in France. And he was really on them with their French colleagues. It popularized Yibo in France and they got even to the front pages of some magazines. Zhan though that this boy really knew how to do the promo. He knew that Yibo was going back home the next day. He was shortly thinking about writing him a message but the idea quickly left his mind. What would he tell him about that incident at night and the news? Would he be very angry? 

Instead, he wrote to Chiang. 

How did the meeting go?

The answer came a short time later. 

It was a success, we have another splanded localities for the shooting. Next, we are going to continue in our country. 

It made Zhan smile. 

They were going to build whole scenes for the shooting and his own drafts of the costumes appeared as a vision before his eyes. Especially for the Tianxu kingdom. So much work was still on the horizon. But it was a song of upcoming days and he was looking forward for that already now.

Chapter Text

It was dawn and the frosty weather covered the country outside into a snowy blanket. But inside … It was pleasurely warm… quite warm… enough warm. It was good enough for such cheap housing which was very close to the set, exactly how he wanted it to be. 

Black eyes with long eyelashes opened and observed the dimly lit small space of the room around. The sun was just rising up in the sky and its rays started to penetrate the window sills. Neo Hou looked around, jawned, cursed and stretched his back and arms in the bed. And then reluctantly got up. 

He was near Macau shooting a drama. His back was sore from the bed but he just grimaced and went to the small bathroom to massage it in a hot shower. The cloth excellently suited him and eau de cologne pleasantly smelled. The mirror reflected his handsome face and disheveled hair which he had just started to comb when his mobile phone rang with one message after another. He reluctantly opened the mobile phone and howled. It was from his mother. 

Dear, come already on Friday evening. We are going together to visit uncle Zhou on Saturday and we are going to get up early.

Neo Hou’s face contorted in alarm. 

Geez, I have forgotten the family meeting, he thought and shivered pitifully. Why me, why don't they have any other son who could go there instead? But he let it leave his mind and looked at other messages.

They were from friends, coworkers who were already looking for him and even his manager.

I have confirmed attendance for the upcoming awards night. It is on Sunday evening. The red carpet will start at four. Then the shooting will follow. 

His face contorted again, this time in boredom. He didn't like these events because it was all about sitting and waiting but he had to go. It was part of the life he was living now. 

He was very hardworking but sometimes his leisure style reminded a man on vacation more. No wonder that he played Wang Ye in the drama I am Nobody. He was resembling him much more in real life than it could be seen at first glance. In some way, he was similar to Yibo. They both were even lions in the zodiac and they loved singing, dancing and motorcycles. They both were also extra handsome but Hou was more extroverted, outgoing and loved a funny and mischievous attitude. 

He quickly ate a bowl of cereals and went out into the frosty winter to finish several scenes before finally going home. But first, he took his phone and called home.

“Ah, mum? Mum, do you hear me? Yes, yees, I know, I will come…. Ehm, I will go with you but I will have to leave early… Ahhj, I know it is just once a year but you have arranged it on the day of the awards … I will have to go there. I will see my uncle, I will be there till lunchtime… yeeeh, don't worry. Ok? I know I promised it and I will come as I said. Fiiiine, papa, mum… bye bye.”

The gratitude that his mother was not standing by his side spread across his body. He could easily imagine the slap that would land on his head if she was. 

He sighed and entered the shooting set that was already full of people. 

“Where were you?” Bai Lu asked, alarmed. 

She was sometimes annoying with her always responsible attitude. 

“Me? I am here as you can see...” he said and shrugged.

“You really are not very punctual?” his coworker Owodog followed.

“Huh, punctuality is my second name,” Hou replied with a sneer and prepared into the straps. “You are laughing at me for coming late and you are not even prepared yourself,” he continued with sparks in his eyes, waiting. 

They were going to shoot a martial arts scene but one person was still missing. The person he was waiting for was Hua Sen who was going to shoot in the next drama as well. But he remained stuck at the breakfast and appeared after a while running with a piece of sweet dumplings still in his hands. “Ahh, I am so so sorry! I was just waiting for the food and it took longer than I thought.”

“Do you think that the dumplings would run away if you didn't have them now?” Hou said provocatively and Hua Sen laughed. But he still sat down for a while filling his empty stomach with the food. He was so hungry that he could eat the whole crew. For some reason, this thought evoked in him someone from one of his previous dramas - Eternal Faith but he quickly suppressed it in his mind and looked at Bai Lu, who asked him to get to work. 

“Ok, ok, hahahaha, you don't even let me eat. How can I have energy in fighting scenes when you don't even let me eat my breakfast!?”

“You are worse with that punctuality than Hou, you are really like brothers,” Owodog snorted with a shaking head. He took something that resembled a wooden stick and started to stroke Huasen’s leg. They ended up running around the set with Hua Sen laughing all over the battle area. When they finished and the director called them back, he was heavily breathing. 

“Some discipline please!” The director called and pushed Hua Sen in his place while other members of the crew helped him into his strips as well. Hua Sen was still chuckling. 

“You are not quicker and more agile than me even in real life, not to mention in the drama, hahaha,” he provoked. 

Neo Hou rolled his eyes. “Left this love chattering for home, ok?” he asked them. “Let's finish so that we can finally go home.”

Hua Sen with Owodog ignored him and continued bickering while Bai Lu had a fun. “And where are you exactly going when you are in such a hurry?” she inquired curiously.

“It doesn't matter, wherever I can have a rest from you, you rascals!” “Funny, I wanted to say the same about you,” Owodog said grinning and trying to hit Hou with his stick, provoking. 

“I just want to be among normal people,” Hou howled, covering his legs. 

“We are normal people!” Hua Sen exclaimed, laughing and preparing for the position. 

Others finally followed him but it somehow didn't work. 

“Hey, focus on the play, you should look angry!” Hou suddenly reprimanded his colleague.

“I am angry!” Owodog said, looking at Hua Sen who was laughing.

“But you don't look like that at all!” Hou insisted. 

Owodog's face turned red and his eyes widened. He had enough of their nonsense. 

“Because he is just making me laugh, stop laughing!” He cried out, sighed and then continued. “Geez, it is not possible to work with this bunch of fools!” he barked, pointing at his colleagues. 

He was already seriously angry and the director came to them with reproach. But this time even Hou was grinning. When he composed himself he took Hua Sen by his collar and pulled him closer to poke him into his forehead. “Stop messing around!” he exclaimed decisively ignoring his “auch” and sent him to his place. Hua Sen was still catching his breath. 

“Camera!”

They all prepared.

“Focus!” Hou yelped at Hua Sen.

“Action!”

The battle opened in a great style, Hua Sen attacked at Neo Hou covering an attack of Owodog on the way. But this time, he didn't have any friendly look on his face. His expression was full of rage when he slashed with his sword against Hou’s shoulder who turned in a pirouette and repealed the attack. Even Hou had gentle and elegant moves like the dancer. He was another multitalented actor who definitely deserved the admiration. Hua Sen in a moment shorter than a breath changed from a funny and cheerful boy to a demonic cultivator and his appealing expression was so sinister that even Hou felt a goosebump for a while. Then Bai Lu appeared on the set and helped Hou fight off the attackers. 

The scene ended. 

“Stop!”

Hou was sweating and his head was slightly spinning from the movements. His eyes widened up. Hua Sen came to him, heavily breathing as well. “Everything all right?” he asked with a shade of worries in his eyes. Hou meanwhile composed himself again.

“Yeh, everything is ok,” Hou replied, breathing deeply.

It was almost a miracle but they did it. There was no need to repeat the shooting and they celebrated. 

“Well, now, you can go!” Owodog said wryly. Hua Sen ignored that tone. 

“And where are you going?” he asked, he was sincerely naive, outgoing and extremely curious. 

“Probably to his babe!” Owodog replied instead of him. 

Neo Hou rolled his eyes again. “I am leaving for Macau. See you at the awards. And stop grumbling,” he replied and waved at them. 

“See you then,” Sen greeted him and turned to his other coworkers. 

Neo Hou was on the way to the entrance but Bai Lu still ran after him. “Hei, wait! When will you be at the awards? Can I join you?” she asked. 

Hou was also going there with the crew from previous dramas but he had already agreed to meet with Zhan and others from his upcoming drama. He shook his head, being dramatic.  

“Oh my, so many people want me,” he joked. I would have to cut myself into pieces.”

Bai Lu snorted. “Come on, who are you going there with?”

“Well, there will be other beautiful girls doing me company and then … Zhan?”

“Zhan? Ahh,” Bai Lu pouted her lips. She was seriously offended. “Why him and not me?”

“Because you are all fighting for my company and Zhan came to ask me first,” he explained, amused. 

Meanwhile Hua Sen appeared by their side again. When he saw Hou was still there, he couldn't help not to go and find out what they were talking about. “And I will be there too!” he called.

“Yeh, I almost forgot,” Hou replied provocatively wryly. 

“Fine, I will still see you there,” Bai Lu said, grinning and turned around, leaving them alone. 

Hua Sen grinned. “Talking about Zhan. It's quite fun around him lately, hahaha. If it will be all shooting like that I am really looking forward to that. By the way, what was that about Zhan and Yibo, are they  just friends or something more?”

Hou raised his brows. “How should I know that?” he asked. “Am I any detective? … And why do you even ask? Are you observing the terrain?” he winked. His colleague's cheeks visibly changed colour “What???”

“Wasn't that you who played in that drama Eternal Faith?” Hou mischievously winked at him. 

Hua Sen just widened his eyes and snorted, ignoring Hou’s challenging voice. What was that rogue thinking about? He crossed his arms and countered. “Yes, but I was playing only at the end of season one” he showed the number with his fingers.  “And I didn't even have any lovey dovey scenes. Actually, my role had quite a tragic ending and my friendship ended, ehm … bad.”

That was right, Hua Sen was playing Wind Master in the series adapting the book Heaven Official's blessing but his role didn't actually have any love scenes. Otherwise, he was an exquisite cheerful guy who sadly succumbed to an unfortunate fate. It was Zhang Linghe who played the bromance role but he was not there and none of them ever played with him. Unfortunately, the drama never had been broadcasted.  

“And I am 100 percent straight, by the way,” Hua Sen continued proudly, ignoring Hou's amused expression “I just … it was what people were saying all the time. I thought you knew them.”

Neo Hou grimaced, his expression was a bit too self assured. “I know Yibo, not Zhan. We used to be friends but I haven't seen him for some time,” he replied, lost in thoughts. 

Well, he didn't see him really for a very long time. They were too busy. But … Why not reopen old friendships?

When they parted, Hou took out his mobile and thought. Then, he found Yibo's name and wrote. 

“Hi bro. Long time no see. Are you going to the awards ceremony on Saturday?”

He picked up his things and pushed luggage to the car when the message came. It was from junior and it was very short as usual. 

Yes, but just for a while. You going?

Hou chuckled. 

“Huh, no drinking, no arm-wrestling and rescue missions?”, he asked provocatively. 

After a while another message arrived.

Do you want me to punch you to your nose? 

Hou sneered. 

“No, I just thought I could join you. It's absolutely safe. No one would ever suspect you with me from anything, I am such a Don Juan. Just look at my passionate scenes. But if you are not going I reserve your time for personal acting training.”

Anyone who would watch their chat might probably suspect them of something. But it was not what it looked like. 

League of legends?

Hou laughed. “Yeh!”

Fine, but I will kick your ass!

Hou chuckled and rolled his eyes again. He used to play video games with Yibo but there was no time lately. Finally, another occasion occurred. Fantastic!

“Arranged!” he wrote.

Xiao Zhan was just leaving the kitchen of the studio, enjoying its pleasant smell. It was already afternoon on Friday a day before the award ceremony should take place. 

The attendants were confirmed one by one now, names like Cheng Yi, Zhang Linghe, Neo Hou, Bai Lu, Zhao Liying, Yang Zi and many others among them. Zhan and Yibo were usually one of the last to confirm due to their busy schedules. But this time it took too long. Zhan was waiting for Yibo because he wanted to know when he would be there. But junior’s confirmation still didn't come till Zhan lost his patience. He looked at his coworker and said, “Fine. It should have been all planned, confirm my attendance then, I will be there for the last two hours.” 

The coworker just nodded and did as he was asked. 

It didn't take a long time and the news about Zhan coming to the event flooded all social media. Fans were celebrating and Zhan finally chose from three variants of cloth. It was once again a very expensive suite from TOD’s in the colors of bordó and black. He agreed with the stylist to help him get ready for tomorrow in the afternoon. But there was still a lot of time. He continued work on the graphical design of his upcoming album when his colleague Bao came and showed him the news. Yibo finally confirmed his attendance as well but it was for the second third, in the time when Zhan wouldn't be there. 

The senior looked at Bao and nodded. “Nothing apparently changed,” he said wryly. But the truth was that he didn't expect anything else. Not after what happened lately.

He still needed to move from Beijing to Macau and his flight was scheduled for 10 o’clock in the evening. The airport was overcrowded even in this late hour, there was a group of people waiting for him to take photos as usual but Zhan went swiftly and quickly passed the safety control guarded with his assistant and bodyguard. He boarded the airplane and headed to his destination. 

The next day passed quickly. 

It was already seven o'clock p.m. when Zhan got off his car before the arena in Macau. He appeared on the red carpet with loud cheering but he just gently bowed, waved and headed inside. 

The host led him to seat that took number 156. 

He came in the middle of the event and the arena was dimly lit but he could still see and recognize all the famous faces of celebrities all around. Several people just accepted their prices on the podium. When he was passing Yang Zi, she gave him her usual seductive smile and nodded in greeting. Cheng Yi, Wu Lei, Xu Kai and Dylan Wang just slightly bowed in greeting but it was a lukewarm gesture without any affection or emotions. Bai Lu gave him a curious look full of a strange disapproval before she returned to conversation with Joseph Zheng who greeted Zhan with a warm smile. But Yang Mi was apparently happy to see him. She was once again sitting in the seats with Diliraba, her loyal friend but both girls had their coworkers from their latest dramas on their sites. 

Zhan greeted them and looked around. He was so busy that he couldn't find the reason why he had a strange feeling about the way, though he got calm when he saw his own colleague. There was a row with one empty seat that held the number 156. On the number 155, his colleague was already sitting next to his seat. 

Zhou Yu Tong was a beautiful girl and she had quite a number of dramas on her account as well. She looked at him and scowled. 

“Finally, I almost thought you would miss it!”

Zhan frowned. “Sorry, the preparations and photoshoots were a bit longer than I thought. I got stuck there.”

He was perceiving the words of the moderator who finally got to the other category of awards.

She nodded. “The organization is terrible. They messed up our seats and finally put us here.”

Now, it occurred to him. Where exactly were they sitting? 

“There is always some chaos in the organisation. I haven't even watched it. The important thing is we have at least some seats,” he chuckled and stroked his chin. Yu Tong wanted to say something but the moderator interrupted her. 

“And the award for the best actress and actor in the drama wiiiinnnns -  Spying!”

Tong’s eyes started to shine. Zhan looked around, celebrating the news with a wide smile. He stood up and helped his partner up the stairs to receive their award. All the audience praised him with wild applause and the space in the arena lit his usual favourite red lights. But he couldn't miss that there was much more green than before. 

The green belonged to Yibo. He remembered about him and became curious what price he left with. But there was time for such thoughts later. Right now, he was disturbed by the microphone of the moderator. He was asking him about his shooting days. 

“Was the shooting exhausting?"

Zhan smiled. 

“Yeh, yeh, It was, we were shooting several months and some days even nonstop with just very short breaks. There was a lot of text I had to remember and sometimes, I was so exhausted it was really hard to play. It's due to my great colleague Tong who has always kept me awake with her lively nature that I finished the drama,” he looked at her, amused. “All the crew was excellent and the thanks belongs to all of them,” Zhan finished sincerely and Tong together with several colleagues sitting in the audience smiled.  

He could now see many well known faces among them, both his ex colleagues and future colleagues, even Chang Hua Sen with Neo Hou were there, sitting near one another. But there were also Tian Yia Rui, Yan An, Omid, Zuo Ye, Zhang Yuxi and Zhao Liying. Many of them were also awarded in the upcoming categories and he could see some of them even while singing the songs. 

Neo Hou was the one who presented his last song from his newest drama. When he was coming down from the podium he stopped by Zhan, apparently surprised to see him on the spot but he didn't comment on it. Instead, he came closer and informed him. “There is a meeting in the lounge after the ceremony.”

Zhan nodded and Hou went back to his seat. 

Zhan was already sitting back and as he had some time, he looked at his mobile phone to find out more information about the ceremony. The photos of Yibo accepting the awards were everywhere. He received three prizes, one for the best actor, one for the strongest actor with the biggest tenacity at work and one for the best new song in the drama. And his last movie Intercross also received several awards.

Zhan was in shock. Not that he wouldn't have wished it to him but it was a great honor to receive the award for the best actor in general at such a young age. He received it for the role in Intercross. Even though Zhan didn't like it, an unpleasant stub of envy echoed inside his head and he became slightly dispirited. 

Why him? … Why not me?

But he suppressed it with a feeling of shame. He had almost missed the announcement of another award for the most influential actor when the moderator called.

“Xiao Zhan!”

Zhan was surprised and his eyes widened. It took him some time to compose and finally stand up on his legs. He went to the podium again to accept the prize and talked to the audience with his usual gentle attitude that won him a great applause from all the arena. Also winning this award meant a lot and it was just another proof of how great media power he had. 

But deep inside he was confused and his disturbance became even deeper when he later met Yang Mi who said with a strangely bemused tone.

“I didn't know you were even sharing your seat with Yibo now. Is that some kind of new seat-saving system?” she laughed. 

Zhan didn't have an idea what she was talking about. He was looking at her with his jaw dropped till his eyes widened with understanding. A wry smile spread across his face. “They did it again, didn't they?” he asked, knowing what the answer would be.

“Yibo was sitting on this seat before you,” Yang Mi explained. “When he left, they gave you the same seat.”

Zhan was speechless. Not because it would be something important but because it never happened before, it was unprecedented … and he had no idea about it, till now. It looked like even organizers wanted to make some spicy gossip whenever they could and it would lead to another thousand unique theories about them, some of them even presuming that it was just a part of their own plan. 

A year ago, he would go berserk. But now, there was no reason for real wrath. In every case, he was sure it was just someone's foolish joke. Well, they fooled him. This time, he was not much on guard. 

After the event, Yang Mi and Diliraba accompanied him to the local lounge bar, where they met the rest of his upcoming colleagues. Or at least those who could come. There were not Yibo, Rainco Julian, Li HongYi and Cheng Lei as well as Tian Xu Ning and Huang Xing.

Chang Hua Sen was amusing the whole group by the bar again and people like Jiurai and Hao Xuan diligently joined him in messing around. Neo Hou was watching them with sparkling eyes and a straw in his mouth. 

Hua Sen was a cheerful extrovert and he easily became friends with anyone. He spent most of the time with Neo Hou and Jiurai, becoming good friends with them even now when the shooting hadn't even started yet. But while they got along well in real life, at least Jiurai was supposed to play their rival in the drama. 

It might be sometimes a bit paranoid to forget your real relationship and get into the shoes of someone else who has got very different feelings and priorities. To hate someone you like … and otherwise. But to be a good actor, they had to be able to perfectly obtain this kind of skill. To adopt even that, what was not in their nature at all. Jiurai was a real miracle in the drama world. He was actually a newbie, a person who went through many shows but not any drama or movie besides the last two that already managed to shoot him to the celebrity world. He practically debuted with two dramas - My journey to you and Fengs of fortune, that managed to steal the hearts of many fans. They both were directed by Guo Jingming who was similarly genius in the drama world as Hanz Zimmer in the musical one. His dramas had such a deepness, tense and charge that it stupefied any audience. Jiurai was so mesmerizing that he became famous in no time and other offers of roles started to come one by one. Now, he was filming another drama and five others were waiting. Jiurai was one of the most engaged actors now … next to Neo Hou. But he was younger and very resistant, tireless. 

Neo Hou had evidently very exhausting time and while Jiurai and Chang talked to each other at the bar, it so happened that he seriously fell into slumber. Zhan joined them in the time when they were just talking about their recent roles. 

“I am playing in modern drama but it is not that common. Most of my roles are actually historical and costumes,” Chang said happily. “Which kind of dramas do you like more?”

It seemed to be quite a funny question as Jiurai played only in historical so far. But he shooted also period and one modern drama now. He seriously thought about it, not knowing what to say. 

“Well, I like both. Both have some advantages. But the best are the adventure ones. I like dramas that have a lot of action and where the role is challenging. Like the role in My journey to you…” 

He wanted to continue but noticed Neo Hou shamelessly sleeping on the bar. He snorted and prodded him with his elbow. “Wake up! You lazybones!” 

Neo Hou opened his eyes and grimaced, looking a bit stupid. “Aaah, lazybones?” he asked, winking. “ …. Ehm, did I really fall asleep?”

“Yeh, but leave it for home!” 

 Zhan was grinning. “Do you want me to order you a cup of coffee? I also need one.” 

Neo Hou just eluded hungry “please!” and looked at Jiurai. “What were you talking about? You little princess?”

Jiurai swift a “Just you wait” look at Hou but before he could say anything, someone interrupted him. 

“What do you mean by challenging roles? Who did you play there?” Zhan asked. 

It was an understandable question. He could hardly see all the dramas. There were many he didn't, no matter how famous it was. The production was so huge in Asia and in that flood of dramas worldwide he would need several lives to see at least part of it all. And with his busy life, it was not possible at all. 

“I played one of the Gong brothers, together with another actor Zhang Linghe. But we were actually enemies in the drama, at least from the beginning."

“And what was the most challenging?” Hua Sen asked curiously. 

Jiurai furrowed his brows in reflection. “The Gong Yuan Zhi was hardly elusive. He had unpredictable emotions and behaved strangely in situations when others behaved differently - like reacting to stressful situations and aggression with a smile etc. It was just unusual. I couldn't get into the role.”

Hua Sen knew the drama and he grinned. “Yeh, I remember that maniacal smile of yours.”

“But wait, that is not only in the drama. He has such a smile quite often in real life as well,” Neo Hou teasingly added.

It was his usual provocation but Jiurai widened his eyes in surprise and pushed him. “Hey, be kind!,” he reprimanded him but smiled. 

Zhan understood what he was talking about, Wei Wuxien was also a bit like that when he started to use demonic magic. “And what about the Fengs of fortune?” he asked. 

“It was more of a psychological role, Lord Bingyi. He had a blood debt to his enemy he later started to like. And he was conflicted but in many ways, he had more “normal” behavior, just mostly common for everyone.”

Neo Hou looked at him with his lips twitching. It was him who played this “enemy”. “You can hardly blame him for being conflicted when he was supposed to kill me … everyone would be,” he replied, grinning. 

Jiurai just shook his head. Wasn't this man a real hotshot?

The bartender just bought them the highly anticipated coffee. Zhan gulped deeply, lost in thoughts. “That is what my role will be - the blood revenge. Wu Ning will feel a friendship with someone he is supposed to take his revenge on." His thoughts quickly traveled to Yibo. 

Jiurai winked. “Li Nianzhen is the one? But it is still different. It is not that person but his father who did the crime.”

“But according to the tradition the blood revenge involves the whole family, so Wu Ning is still conflicted.”

“He is, but it still is not the same. Wu Ning knows he didn't do it.”

Zhan thought about it. Would it be a big difference if he liked the king himself? Huh, he couldn't imagine such a picture. Instead, he was imagining him and Yibo playing the roles and trying to get into their shoes. Him hiding his hatred that later turns to kind of love but knowing that there is that miserable, unfair fate that divides them. What would he feel? He will have to think it through and consult the role with the director. Or even brainstorm with Yibo and discuss their roles might help?

While they were talking, Yibo's name lured someone else to their group. It was Diliraba. “I am playing Li Nianzhen's sister. Would you be that conflicted about me as well?” she asked with her girlish voice.

Zhan froze. He knew that Diliraba's role was even romantic with him but it would not end well for her. No marriage.”

Seeing his face, Diliraba chuckled. “I am just teasing you!” she chuckled and sighed, “I hoped I could see Yibo.”

Zhan raised his brows. “Didn't you? He was sitting near you, didn't he?”

“Yes, but he came and left so quickly that I didn't even have time to say hello.”

But Yang Mi, who appeared next to her, added. “It was my fault, I didn't want to change seats.”

Diliraba laughed. “You are just getting on with the role. Such a mother you are. Not even let him greet the chics who have affection for him.”

Yang Mi sneered. She knew what Diliraba implied about her role. But she remembered something and it was more interesting. She turned to Zhan and asked. “When will the script be ready? I can't wait.”

Everyone was already curious and wanted to read it - know more detailed information about their roles. But it was not an easy task even for a team of scriptwriters - especially the final one. 

Zhan nodded. “Soon enough, together with the series bible. I know  you all are waiting. You will have it in time. There will already be a lot of meetings in January,” he said with a smile.

He was glad that so many people were interested in the drama and shooting. Even his colleagues now accepted the news with joy. It looked like the only person who was still cold, uninterested and untouchable like an icecube was Yibo. Zhan furrowed his brows. When he thought about it, there was probably no one he knew who would be so unattainable. The more he wanted to get closer the more they got apart. 

Zhan even didn't know what exactly attracted him to Yibo so much. Was it his appearance or his different, opposite nature? An unpleasant thought came to his mind, that he should let Yibo go when he behaved like this. But it felt unbearable and unimaginable now. 

He knew all his recent efforts came in vain but his heart was screaming and tearing apart when he only thought about it. The more Yibo was refusing him the more he had the need to press on. To satiate that neverending hunger in his heart. The desire that was never leaving, just rising with every upcoming day. It was even more acceptable for him to work with him just to have him close enough. Even if the feelings were unrequited. 

As he was thinking about it he felt a sudden need to find him out. He already didn't care about the incident in the hotel and the media. No more waiting for shooting, he wanted to see him as soon as possible. He had to. 

But how? 

It was not impossible. He just needed some excuse, reason. Maybe brainstorming about their roles? He frowned while he was thinking about it. It needed a plan again. And he was going to come with one. 

They continued enjoying their company and Zhan had enough time to talk with all of his new colleagues. He mostly had a good feeling from them … but he felt that while Diliraba was too often asking about Yibo, Zhang Yunxi gave too much attention to him. Both of these facts were actually disturbing. 

In this, he was the very same as Yibo. Of course he was quite grateful about his look but he couldn't help not to think that sometimes, it complicated his life. And he wished people would not like him just for his handsome face. He also couldn't help not to think about Yibo's attractive appearance. And even though this time, he was actually very vainly satisfied about it, he couldn't miss the fact that the number of rivals in love was very huge. If he would compose them one by one into a mast rising to the sky, he wouldn't probably reach the top in his lifetime. What a disturbing thought. 

His lips twitched. When it was too late, he finally headed home. But it were not the moments from the party and ceremony, nor the lovely oriental face of Diliraba or the seductive look of Yunxi that invaded his mind when he lay down in his bed. It was Yibo's face again. His beautifully shaped eyes, his soft and moist lips. The haunting thought that he must come with the plan appeared again. But not only to meet him. Zhan actually didn't believe that Yibo felt nothing. He believed it was just an excuse and he needed to find out what Yibo's real feelings were.  

Suddenly an idea emerged in his mind. The long wait for the script was almost over. Why wouldn't he volunteer to deliver it himself to Yibo when the day comes? Then, he would have an excuse to finally meet him face to face. In private. 

Chapter Text

A relaxing feeling welled up inside his body. 

The room he saw in front of his eyes was painted in vivid colors and the sounds were somehow abnormally loud when someone ran into the garden and started to shake his body. 

It was an illusion. 

The voice was male but very loud and resonant, the laughter heartlifting and the scent well known.

Some boy called. “Wake up, you have fallen asleep but we are still on the set. Wake up! Do you hear me? hahahaha. Don't hang around! We will go to have our lunch noodles soon!”

The person was shaking with him so hard that it would even bring a dead man back to life. But the laughter was so sweet and heartlifting that he didn't want to open his eyes. His lips curved into a satisfied sleepy smile and he wanted to stay where he was - in the dream. Though, nothing lasts forever and dreams even less. 

“Wake up! Wake up!” Someone called over and over again. 

When he didn't, they shook his body and he finally opened his eyes. A rash of strong light blinded him. He quickly closed them again, but slowly opened them afterwards, giving them time to adjust to the light. There were two people standing by the sofa, looking at him with a wry smile. 

“Get up, mate! You fell asleep!” the boy reprimanded him. 

Tian Xu Ning was still confused. 

He was a moment ago on the set, teased by his ex-coworker Zi Yu and now, he opened his eyes into the chaotic party night and couldn't even remember where he was. Was he so tired that he fell asleep? Or was that an effect of the spirit or maybe even something else? His head was spinning but he still felt good, hardly able to recognise the reality from an illusion. Was it even possible he was dreaming about the shooting and Zi Yu again? Wasn't he still in a dream?

Xu Ning deeply inhaled and sighed, looking at the mess around. Now, he remembered. He was at a party held by one Korean musician but while others got drunk and messed around more and more, he himself went to the room to smoke with several friends, drinking and eating. And then, he simply collapsed. His mind was dazed and his head slightly hurt. His ears were being abused by the loud voices around. 

Why was everyone talking so loud?

“It must be the spirit,” he thought wryly. 

But it wasn't, it was something else. What exactly did he take?

“We are just playing drinking games!” the other boy exclaimed.

“Yeh, and that is exactly why I am not joining you,” Xu Ning replied, taking his hand into his pocket and picking up the cigarette. “I am going to smoke outside. I need some fresh air,” he explained and left. The friend just grimaced and dismissed him with a wave of his hand. 

Xu Ning headed outside. 

The night was cold but humid and the city lights shined into the darkness all around. It was about midnight and even the city streets were already calmer. The spirit elevated his mood but somewhere deep down, he was dispirited. 

He didn't live a bad life now, otherwise. After the broadcasting of the drama Revenge love he gained fame and even offers for contracts - new roles or modeling and brand ambassador were rushing towards him like never before. He was a rich man and his manager was bombarding him with business calls. 

But among all that, something didn't seem right. 

First of all, he was temporarily living in Taiwan and in the last year came home only sparsely. Second, with the newly gained enormous fame an unwanted and unpleasant attacks and illegal attempts to stain his reputation repeatedly appeared and he was annoyed. He had a feeling that instead of focusing on his work and depth of performance in front of the camera, his head was full of those unwanted discomfort coming from the consequences of the fame. 

But there was also something else. Even though it was already a year, a vision of his coworker Zi Yu still haunted him in his memories and he couldn't shake it off. Not exactly that he would fall in love, he was sure that he was straight. He even had a girlfriend, after all. But there was something about the shooting that was different and he couldn't forget it. A trace of newly found thrill that was even highlighted with the fact that his coworker was actually a very nice and extremely cheerful person whose laughter made him feel the warmth of the home. Now he had more in many aspects of his life. Why did he actually feel like something was missing?

When he received the offer to play in a domestic drama again, he was very hesitant. But it was an opportunity and he couldn’t lie. To have a possibility to shoot with such names like Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo, Neo Hou and others was more than an interesting and satisfying idea. Even that former puppy Hua Sen lately managed to rise very high on the ladder of popularity and fame and he had quite a number of acknowledged dramas on his account. Though he himself had to go abroad to show his real skills to the world. What a shame. 

He was smoking in the end of the terrace, leaning against the railings when his friends appeared behind his back. Zichen observed the situation and then looked gleefully at him.

 “You are just standing here like a sculpture, alone, in solitude. What is the matter with you, man? Now, when you are famous, we are not good enough for you?”

Zichen was another actor on the rise. But he had hardly any special achievements behind. He felt his former friend was overlooking them. But it was not like that. Xu Ning gave him a swift glance and breathed a cloud of smoke out of his mouth. “Don’t be stupid. I am just not in the mood.” 

“You are never in mood lately,” Zichen grinned. 

“Yeh, you have been much more boring since the promo around your last drama was over. But since you have received that last offer, you are like this all the time,” Jun joined the conversation, “Pensive and closed-minded. Focused only on your work… even when there isn't any.”

Xu Ning gave him a wry grimace. “That is just your impression. I am lately under a lot of pressure,” Tian said a bit too bitterly.

“That is the truth. I can see it too,” Fang said with her melodical voice. “Just sitting by your mobile phone, watching the news about celebrities in your home country and checking every news about Zi Yu and his progress. And in the meantime waiting for every single gossip about that famous drama you are going to shoot. You're obsessed.”

Xu Ning gave them a cynical look full of ridicule. “Is that so strange that I am interested in what is going on in the entertainment industry at home? Or that I am interested in the news about my upcoming drama?”

Jun snorted, “Maybe not, but you are not there, you are here. Why don’t you focus on what you can do here instead? It looks like you are not happy here… and now, you are just all the time crying about the script for the new drama. Do you think that if you do that, someone would serve it to you on a silver plate?”

Xu Ning rolled his eyes. “I am not crying, I am just saying it takes them a long time. Nothing more. I want to read it soon enough instead of making myself fool in front of the camera and everyone. I take my work very seriously, which is what I can't say about everyone...”

Jun immediately understood his allusion that was aimed directly at him and he started to laugh.
„Auch! It was as icy a note as your poker face, Ning. Really, you could play an ice cube. Such a cold badass.“

Xu Ning started. Fang snorted and tried to reconcile the situation. “Leave him alone. At least he has got a style.”

Zichen rolled his eyes again. 

Jun chuckled. “Style? Huh, I have got an idea. Let's go to the swimming pool and have some fun! Do something crazy and unbridled for a change. It will be real style!” 

Zichen’s eyes lit up. “Yeh, I am in! Cold water, starry sky, that is it!” he said boldly. But Fang was terrified, “Are you crazy? You are under the drugs and spirit and you want to go to the swimming pool? It is dangerous!“

“Come on, just a few laps, nothing will happen,” Jun said and took her arm to lead her to the water. 

The pool was not far away. 

It was shining in the middle of the garden, enlightened with the light that was coming from the interiors of the villa together with loud music and voices of the guests. Fang was hesitant for a while but she finally agreed. They were limping in mutual embrace to the pool with laughter till they reached the edge of the pool. But at that moment, Xu Ning appeared in front of them. Zichen opened his eyes wide in surprise. 

“Stop here. If you go inside, it will end up bad. The fact that you are playing immortal in the drama doesn't mean you are one, you fools!,” Ning hissed wryly and stood in front of them.   

But Zichen, under the influence of the drug and spirit, fell into rage and barked. “Who are you to tell me what I would do! Father? Manager? You are just a puffed up, self-absorbed coward who thinks that all world belongs to him! Get out of the way!“

Xu Ning observed him with a calm expression and cigarette still in his mouth. But he put it out, threw it to the ground and extinguished it. His next words were cold and warning. 

“Some boundaries are not for playing with,” he hissed. 

“Stop instructing, Ning! We are not on the set. We are at the party!” Jun reprimanded him. 

But Ning didn't care. “I said it clearly. Not a single step more,” he said again, his voice was unyielding. 

Fang tried to talk some sense into them but Zichen already made several steps ahead and pushed his friend so that he almost fell to the pool himself. Ning suddenly felt a strong amount of wrath filling his body and pushed him away … and in the next several seconds, they started to beat each other head-on. The tense quickly rose and Fang started to cry in dismay.

“Ning! Zichen, stop it!”

Meanwhile, several members ran out looking what was the commotion about while Jun was trying to stop them. But the boys were like wild beasts in the middle of the prairie, fighting for survival. 

Fang continued crying, some girls were shouting at them while several guests started to cheer them and even betting about who would be the winner, till a big and sturdy-body looking person in a suit appeared in the garden and headed to Xu Ning. He forcibly and without question tore the two men apart. Zichen, Jun and Fang paled but Ning widened his eyes in terror. 

It was his manager. And a very angry one. 

“Stop this mess. Immediately!” He said harshly and took Xu Ning by his hand, leading him away. When they were far enough, he forced Ning to look into his eyes. 

“You are famous, damned! You can’t just lie on the floor like some drunkard and street fighter! Just one photo on social media that will stain your reputation and the game is over! All you have tried to make in the past will come in vain! Do you understand?”

Xu Ning said nothing, hardly breathing. His mind was a mess under the influence of the drug. The manager pushed him to the car and forced him inside. After a while the only sound he heard was a blinker ticking.

The man finally calmed down but his cheeks were still red with rage. He was deeply breathing, looking for the right words. 

“Do you know why you are famous? Not because you are a fighter or wrinkled man but because you have something special in you. A kind of charisma and magnetism that makes people hungrily watch the screen without looking away. Because you are extraordinarily talented, you care about your expression and you are dedicated to your mission! If you let them bring you down to their level, you will destroy your career and your life. You are not that stupid, are you?”

Xu Ning was slowly sobering up and it all started to make sense. But he could hardly openly say that it was just a drift, an escape from all that responsibilities and worries. He remained silent, manager’s look was burning him  

“So start to behave like that!” he said finally. 

Xu Ning nodded. He looked out of the window with his face stiff and his eyes blank. Zi Cheng was looking at him, giving him some time before speaking again. Then, he continued. 

“Do you know what is the most luxurious commodity in this branch? It is not money, expensive cars and cloth. It is peace, calmness. And that is something you can have only if you will keep your reputation clean. No scandals, no fights, no collapse at parties… no tabloid photos. You are too young as an actor but you are going to shoot with your older colleagues like Xiao Zhan, you could ask him. He and Yibo have got a lot of experience with what this industry can do to you and they are behaving themself very well. Take an example from them.”

“So I am supposed to be like a wax figure. Just smile on order, nice selfie, nice pose, ideally no own opinions?” Xu Ning said ironically.

“You can have your own opinions if you are clever enough but … yes, exactly. Do you want to play in dramas and in movies? Do you want to do modeling? You must be someone people love. You must become someone people want to follow. If you are clever, you will behave like that. At least in public and in front of the camera,” the Zi Cheng said. 

Xu Ning couldn’t help noticing that he was also Zi with his thoughts travelling to someone else again. No fights, no scandals …

“No one will look up to someone who is just lying drunk on the ground all the time,” the manager added. 

Xu Ning bitterly laughed. “It is not what I did. I even wanted to stop them from doing something stupid.”

“I don’t care. You are drugged and drunk. If something happened you would be in it with them.”

Xu Ning howled and stretched his arms. He was really very stiff. But something about this matter made him feel better. 

“Ok, ok, enough, I understand,” he sighed. 

“Fine, finally!” Cheng exclaimed with an amused expression and provocative tone. “Now, listen! You have missed all the meetings with the cast of your upcoming drama. But the time for lingering is over. You will go there next time.”

Xu Ning snorted. “Of course I will. The meetings in the new year will not be obligatory, after all.”

“You should already plan the comeback home. Do you know where you will be living?”

Xu Ning grimaced. “Yeh,” he said calmly. “I have already rented a flat.”

“Fine, it is good,” he said, finally stopping before an apartment building where Xu Ning was living now. When the actor got out of the car, he looked at him one last time. “I have news,” he explained. “The script is ready, at the moment we receive it, I will bring it to you.”

This time, Xu Ning’s eyes sincerely lit up. He was really waiting for it for a long time even though he was actually shooting another drama. Now, the preparations might begin. 

He nodded and closed the door watching the car leaving before he headed home. 

When the engine rattled and the car disappeared out of the vision, Xu Ning went inside the building. 

His apartment was much more plain. So much that someone could be surprised, considering his property. But he didn’t care about pompousness. 

On the other hand, his computer as well as all the musical instruments and equipment used for work were the best - and the cloth of course as well. It was necessary for his presentation to the public. 

His friends were right when they said that he spent a lot of time checking the news not only about the drama but also about his upcoming colleagues. But they were exaggerating. He was not obsessed. He was just very curious and he actually looked forward to shooting. It had more reasons and one of them was even a bit surprising to him. He was quite curious about someone in the cast. 

It was already 20th December and the western X-mas were coming. They were not common festivals in Asia but he still liked it and he liked to celebrate it, especially in Taiwan. 

The media were just informing about past and upcoming performances and achievements of other celebrities and he watched them.

Zhan was constantly doing promo for his upcoming album but he also sang one of the songs on one concert night. After Yibo’s car-driving success, he was just finishing his shooting and he had a dance performance at one great cultural event in Wu-chan. All media were focused on him … and not only them. Neo Hou and other actors were permanently flooding social media with their photos and promo as well, Hou even came with a new song and promo for his two new upcoming shows, where one was supposed to be launched in just two days. Also Jiurai was celebrating the beginning of his new show and Diliraba was bewitching everyone with a new breathtaking promo for Harper’s Bazaar. 

It all was already steering up the internet waters enough. But what was actually attracting the attention the most were many AI made videos of Yibo and Zhan in various intimate scenes. They were within the bounds of decency but they were really intimate and they looked so real that even Xu Ning had doubts if it really was them or just AI.

How the hell could AI make it so authentic? Was that even within the law? Why was everyone so obsessed with them? Not that they didn’t look good there, but… He played at least three more videos before getting scarlet, stopping it and moving to something else, contemplating if Zhan and Yibo saw it too. And then, an idea emerged in his mind. Were there such videos of him and Zi Yu as well? 

In any case, every celebrity was getting ready for the performances in the upcoming end of the year and beginning of the Chinese New Year. 

When he went to sleep, he found his girlfriend on the mobile phone to call her but something stopped him. First, he opened his browser and checked the news about Zi Yu.

Even Zi Yu continued his career that was struck similarly as his one but not worse. Even so, they were not in contact much any more. He and Zi Yu didn’t want to. They wanted to focus on their future career instead of steering up any rumours about them and it was also very uncomfortable for his girlfriend … or better to say, both of them. Why he still couldn’t move and looked for any updates about him he didn’t know. It might be just from habit, they spent a lot of time together for quite a long time, after all. But he was sure it wasn't important any more. It was just a question of time. 

He dug up some photos of him and his new colleagues on the set of shooting of his new drama, being glad when he saw that Zi Yu seemed to be happy and satisfied as well. Feeling better now, he found the contact of his girlfriend again and dialed it up. 

She was more than happy when he told her that he was going back to his home country. More than that because it looked like the test of their relationship was finally over. 

Well, she didn’t know how wrong she was.

Chapter Text

Xiao Zhan returned from his business trip back to Beijing. 

It was already 22th December and the snow started to fall to the ground - X-mas were coming.

This western tradition was not a typical custom in their country but it still partly found its way to Asia. The shops and commercial centers were full of decorations and X-mas trees as well as other decorational objects. Local people considered the day especially a nice occasion for seeing each other, giving presents to their loved ones and enjoying each other's company. 

Xiao Zhan liked to go home even if it was just for two days but he couldn’t this time, because he was too busy. He still made the day free just to have some rest. Right now, he was restless because Chiang Cheng called him that the script was finally ready and prepared for him to pick it up. After his arrival he headed directly into Chiang's office. 

The director greeted him with open arms. 

“Zhan, finally! I haven’t seen you since our paths departed in France!” he exclaimed when he saw him closing the doors.

“Director Chiang! How nice to see you! Did you have a nice time lately?”

“Ah, yeh, yeh, it was fine. We were finishing preparations but everything worked even better than I expected. And the result is…” 

He picked up two documents from his desk, lifting it to Zhan. The senior hungrily picked it up and started to go through the pages. 

“Sit down with me,” Chiang asked him and pointed at the chair with his right hand. 

“Thank you very much,” Zhan replied politely and nodded. He stared at the lines with passion, reading some scenes. “Sooo good, soo good,” he whispered more for himself but Chiang smiled and brushed his chin with his fingers. Then he leaned over and took out something else. 

“I almost forgot. Here is also the series bible. You might want it to make a better and more complex picture of who exactly your character will be. I am sure you might read about it first. You are one who helped me come up with the story so you might not need my help but if I could be helpful, don’t hesitate to ask whatever you need.”

Zhan chuckled again. “I might have helped but you are still the boss,” he laughed, “I am sure I will need to discuss the role with you but I need to study it first.” 

He concealed the thought that came to his mind, that he wanted to study and consult it together with Yibo as well.Though, It looked like Chiang knew him so well that he was even able to follow his thoughts. 

“I know you wanted to pass the script to Yibo so I will entrust this important task to you.”

Zhan had what to do to suppress the rush of blood to his face but he managed to control his emotions, just seriously nodding in agreement. 

 “Ok then, I will take it to him as soon as possible. And what about others? Are you going to send it to them?”

Chiang smiled, “Yes. By post or over their agents. And some of them will have that privilege to receive it from me personally… Now, tell me how the last few days were and I will tell you how the days in Norway were...” 

The director made Zhan busy during the next 30 minutes. They had a very nice time as usual during which Zhan found out a lot of other information about the upcoming shooting. He was surprised that it was supposed to start already in March but some of the scenes might be shot already in February during the snowy days. They needed some scenes in winter as well. From January to March, there were many activities including the preparation for the roles and shooting. But it was already mandatory for all the actors. It might be divided into several separate classes with different attendants according to the actors’ schedules but they had to be there. They were supposed to start with the preparation of fight and even dance choreographies, as well as etiquette and appropriate conduct due to their social status. But even this was already a promise of good fun. He also knew that both him and Yibo were among those who were supposed to film in France and Norway as well but it was a question of autumn days at the end of the filming.

Very well then, it sounded fine, he thought on his way to the city. 

Zhan had to leave early because he still had some things to do and time was relentlessly passing. He continued to Xiao Zhan’s studio and left the office when the sky was already dark and starry. Li Qin was texting him on his mobile phone, asking him if they could meet on X-Mas day but he was hesitant. 

Originally, he wanted to meet her but now a new occasion occurred. He had the script and there were not many possibilities to pass it to Yibo and made him set aside more time for him. But maybe for X-mas day, he could. 

Heading to the commercial center and passing one of enormous billboards with Yibo’s face on it, he coughed out loud and looked at his mobile phone, checking updates about him. It was cold like hell and his bare naked hand was freezing,  he warmed it with his breath and went quickly inside. 

The center was full of festive lights and festive decorations and themed music was playing all around. Zhan liked it. He loved the festive and lighthearted mood. It was common for him and for Yibo to at least wish the happy X-mas day to their fans as well. He came to the commercial centre to buy some decorations for his upcoming post to social media and bought some X-mas cloth as well. On his way out, he ordered some drinks to warm up. There were some stands and playing music outside on the square as well but with many people recognizing him he couldn’t stand there for a long time. Followed with his bodyguard he headed back home to cook some dinner. 

When he was finally well fed, showered and ready for some evening rest, he was already so tired that he didn’t have strength for anything other than just sitting and reading, watching TV or just relaxing, maybe calling home. He switched on his stereo adjusting its volume on his favourite level and looked for Yibo’s contact to call him, thinking. But he was not sure what to tell him. His intention was clear. But he didn’t want to go to his apartment just to give him the script and leave. He hoped Yibo would be considerate enough to invite him inside and spend some time with him. Though, lately, he was not sure about him really doing that. 

Yibo had another extremely successful dance performance behind and all the social media were full of it. Even Zhan had played it several times. Being top celebrities again, a lot of posts about him and Zhan were emerging from the depths of the internet, as usual. He was once again seeing a lot of photos from the past and nowadays but this time there were also more and more AI made videos as well. Zhan was so far ignoring it, not having time for any distractions like that. But this time, when his schedule slightly loosened its tights, he was curious and played it. It was absolutely not what he was expecting. 

The video was very … shocking. 

He was looking at his own body and face, it was a very realistic version of himself but his hands were quite shamelessly touching the body of Wang Yibo and his own lips were very gently and sensually touching his own, sucking it and even biting it in an amorous embrace. 

What?

The problem was that it was not him. It couldn't be. Or did he have amnesia and forgot something he definitely shouldn't? 

No! This is not real! 

Zhan froze, looking at it with his jaw dropped down, unable to say anything, unable to think a clear and meaningful thought. After a while, he just shook his head and put the mobile phone down. 

What was that, why was that video so scandalously trustworthy. It looks like a real scene brought on a set or even his own apartment, geez!, he thought alarmed and for a while even sincerely angry. 

He was an artist and he knew what various technologies might do, he was using them as well after all. But he never had a slightest need to use them with such an intention. It was crazy. It was even exploitable! Someone should do something about it. Such thoughts were swirling inside his head. 

Though it had one side effect even on him … and he didn’t see this coming. 

Watching the video, it apparently increased his curiosity and he couldn’t help not to play another that followed … and another … and another … 

After a while, he collapsed into the sofa with his pulse rising like the pulse of a horse after the competition. What he thought he had under control somehow broke again. He was just sitting in the living room thinking and listening to a song I’m sorry by Bruce Maginnis playing to his ears while a vision of Yibo and him appeared before his eyes and he couldn’t help not to try something. 

When he was once telling Yibo that he was reading the original book he didn’t lie. But he didn’t say that he still had it in his apartment, stored and well hidden. There were many scenes that were in the books but it never found a light of real life because it couldn’t be in the series. But AI might enable him to make it. Even though it never came to his mind before he headed for the books and brought them to the living room, starting his own computer and finding his own version of the program.

He found a particular part of book three with the kissing scene by the tree and described to AI all the scenes with text, video and picture materials to depict the appearance of the characters and let her work. It worked a long time … a very long time. But when it was finished, the result was mesmerising. 

He even didn't know why he did that but it was stronger than him. In fact, there was always some persistent, lascivious wish to see what it would be like, coming from his curiosity. But there was not any really good and quality projection of those scenes and he refused to do it himself - to even paint it on the paper. No matter if the reason was shame or his personal scruples, he just couldn't. 

But this time, it was different. There has never been the easier way before. 

He was for the very first time looking at his own Wei Wuxien going through the very original scene with Lan Zhan that made his mouth go dry. 

Lan Zhan conquered him easily like a girl with his hands and body tightening and immobilizing his own and his lips devouring Wei Wuxien's with such passion that it was paralysing. Reading the text he could feel the thrill as well as the sweet and tickling, running down his spine, feeling like he was really there - in Wei Wuxien's skin. In a few more seconds, he found himself playing the instrumental soundtrack from the Untamed for the mood and with even higher curiosity found another scene - the kissing scene in the bath tube. It once again took some time to make it but the result was even more fascinating. 

Seeing his panting Wei Wuxien in the bath tube with Yibo’s Lan Zhan with his hands entangled around his own waist, his body leaning against Yibo's sturdy and naked chest and belly and their lips pressing one against another was so stimulating that he almost couldn’t control the embarrassing signals of his own body. But when he even read the sentence: “Hanguang-jun, don’t try to pretend you don’t like it when I touch you like this,” he panted as well.

Hanguan-jun was always pretending, suppressing, concealing, with his poised and cold mask. And he? What should he do? 

He howled in misery. It looked like a parallel with his real life. 

No wonder that directors were actually choosing actors with specific dispositions and similarities with the roles. But someone so similar to Hanguang-jun was dangerous. So crystal-clear and fair but aloof, untouchable at the same time. Sometimes his unyielding nature could be confused with cruelty but it was not like that. Zhan knew that deep inside, he was pure and beautiful. He wanted to strip him of his shell and gaze into the very essence of his being.

 “Oh my! You little scoundrel, why are you like this!” Zhan groaned. “And why are there these videos made by AI all around! All the world just conspired against me!”

His hands were slightly shaking and his grimace sincerely dispirited.

He collapsed on the table. His mind just resigned from service and his upper body lying on the table surface was unintentionally writing a lot of nonsense on the keyboard. But when he finally lifted it again he took out his mobile ignoring the mess and looked for Yibo’s number. 

“I have a script for you. Can we meet on the 24th or 25th December? I have an afternoon and evening free. We can have some fun,” he wrote.

He was not sure if Yibo would understand the real meaning of the word fun but, watching the AI-made video again, he knew it more than well. The first intimate scene of them both was just being projected in front of his eyes. Zhan saw what it looked like, but he wanted to feel it too. 

He sent the message with his breath hold. But the worst was waiting for the response. It was long. 

Too long.

The next day was already the last day before X-mas and the everyday hustle and bustle finally started to calm down. Zhan woke up at 7 o’clock a.m., unable to sleep more and his first thought flew to the message he sent to Yibo. His hand immediately grabbed mobile phone and looked at the messenger but the only new message was from his mother, asking him when he would come home. Not that he was not glad to see any greetings from her, but it was not what he was waiting for and he was disappointed. 

Why doesn’t he answer, Zhan cursed. Really annoyed as he didn’t know what was going on. Was he on some trip again? Did he have too much work? Was Zhan the last priority? 

Zhan couldn’t help but he was full of such questions. And he was even more annoyed that he was thinking about it because it definitely didn’t make his day. 

Why don’t you just forget him when he behaves like that?, he thought deep inside, shaking his head in disbelief over his own foolishness. 

But his own stomach grumbled and announced his current state. Zhan sighed and reflected about what he should cook today, he was in the mood even for some sort of pancakes. For him in Asia, it was almost a festive food. It might be fine. 

He headed to the kitchen. While he was picking out the ingredients someone knocked on the doors. The senior put down the bottle of milk he was just holding and went to the doors to open. Behind the door stood Li Qin.

This time, Zhan was really surprised when he saw her. His eyes widened as he said between the doors. “Qin? You did come? What brings you here, why didn’t you call?”

But Qin just ignored his surprise expression and leaned over to kiss him on his cheeks. “I am sorry. I know that we didn’t arrange the meeting but I am on the way to the airport and I couldn’t help not to stop by,” she said, smiling. “It’s X-mas after all and I have a present for you!”

Li Qin’s eyes were so sincerely sparkling that Zhan couldn’t help not to laugh. “Ok then. How could I refuse such a lovely visit. Come inside.”

He opened the doors and let her go in while going back to the cooking. 

“I am going to have breakfast, we can have it together when you are here...”

When Li Qin undressed, she immediately joined him, ignoring his attempts to send her sitting. But she insisted she would help. 

Soon enough, Zhan rolled his eyes and gave up. Instead he winked at her. “I also have a present for you but I didn’t expect to give it to you so early,” he smiled. “Even so, you are allowed to open it on the 25th December, not earlier!”

Li Qin started to laugh. “Ok then, I will remember it. The same to you. We will call and tell each other our opinion then.”

The breakfast was ready and they sat down at the modern glass table to eat it. Zhan even played some festive music and lit a candle. The fire in the chimney didn’t burn already but it was still giving enough warmth, making them feel good in contrast with the frosty temperature outside. Zhan slightly shivered with the thought and felt great gratitude for having his cosy apartment.

“So, where are you going? Home?” he asked Li Qin. 

“Yes, I am going to visit my family. I am doing it like this every year.”

“Hm, I will unfortunately have to postpone it to the new year. I have just two days free so I will rest in Beijing.”

Li Qin smiled, enjoying not only the meal but also the nice fragrance of the freshly made coffee. Zhan had an excellent coffee maker, so good that he could even advertise it on TV. “I have finally got the script, did you read it?”

Zhan nodded slightly. “Yes, but not that much, I am waiting for someone's assistance.”

Li Qin was not exactly sure what he meant by it but she didn’t ask now. She had something else on her mind. “It is so huge and there is a lot of dialogue even for us. I am glad but it is even more than I thought. But the character I am playing is so nice to study in detail. I was so excited!”

Zhan chuckled. He was glad she liked it so much because it was much better to cooperate with people who had real fun during the job. There were many characters that had a lot of space in the drama even though they didn’t play main roles. They were still playing important roles and the story was very intertwined. Both Yibo and Zhan were mostly surrounded by many people from the court, cultivation sects or army. That was why many actors were on the set simultaneously. If not with them, then separately from them but together with others. 

“And for whose assistance are you waiting by the way?” she asked, curious like a real woman after a while. 

Zhan was just taking a sip from his cup of coffee but he coughed out loud and put it back, swallowing. “Well, I hoped I could see Yibo and practice and discuss our roles with him, but he didn’t reply so far.”

Li Qin gave the kind of “Oh, so it is this,” look and sighed. “I understand. So you will be meeting him… I have also seen him … but still, give him my greetings.”

Zhan smiled, ignoring her words but deep inside he was a bit dispirited that he made time for her but didn’t contact him or at least answer his message. He was thinking if Qin also took him some present and if it was she who wanted to see him or otherwise. He gave her a grimace and said. “To tell the truth I am not sure if I will see him. He hasn't even responded to my text yet. I am thinking about calling him but I don’t want to look misbehaved. By the way, does he reply to your messages immediately or does he let you wait?”

His question apparently surprised Li Qin. She was probably thinking that there was something amiss when he was asking like that but she diplomatically didn’t name it. Instead, she just smiled and replied in a conciliator voice. “To tell the truth I am mostly calling him. It is a safer way to reach him. When I send a text, he mostly replies quite quickly but sometimes, when he is on some work trip or he has got a lot of work, it takes him a day or two. Don’t be afraid. He will write.”   

Zhan was thinking about it and then chuckled. He was more used to sending the texts because he didn’t want to call him on some meetings or to work. He was just too careful and decent. But it might be safer for him to call as well. At least he wouldn’t be so frustrated to wait for him and make assumptions. 

When he thought about it this was another matter where they differ a lot. For him to let someone wait like this was just a disrespect and lack of interest. It was hurting him. It was even offending him. But there were people like Yibo who needed more space and they never cared about such things. He knew this because they used to talk about it even during the filming of their mutual drama the Untamed. Since that time nothing has changed. 

He knew that Li Qin wouldn’t be like that and he gave her another warm smile. A mischievous thought came over his mind. After finishing breakfast, he excused himself and left the room for a while. When he came back he was holding a small package wrapped in decorative paper. Li Qin immediately understood and accepted his wishes. 

“Thank you very much. And this is for you. I hope you will like it.”

“I will always like everything you gave me,” he replied and hugged her. Her hands tightly wrapped around his sturdy waist and her eyes lit up with joy. She could hardly deny that she liked it. 

“Well, I will have to go again. Enjoy at least a day of real relaxation. I know you are also working too much,” she said with sincere care and touched his shoulder with a gentle friendly gesture. 

Zhan was thinking if that “also” was implied to Yibo. 

“That is exactly what I plan to do,” he replied and accompanied her to the doors. 

That day was still a working day but the next two days he really planned to spend just with fun and relaxation. The time passed quickly and the mood with the prospects of upcoming vacation was somehow happier. But the happiest moment came in the afternoon when Yibo finally replied.

It was a very short message as usual. “Ok. I am free on the 24th December after lunch. Will you come to my apartment?”

Zhan’s eyes were sparkling with joy and his heart was laughing. He was so happy that someone seeing him might think that he won several millions in the lottery, absolved the most important exam of his life or just brought to life his first child. He was so motivated that he spent the rest of his time with various preparations from choosing cloth to studying the script and thinking about what he wanted to discuss with junior. But he also thought about ways to make the mood appropriate for something more than just friendly meeting because his own expectations went far beyond. 

Zhan’s thoughts once again drifted to the vision of Yibo as Lan Zhan, pressing his body against the tree tribe while his lips passionately swallowed his every moan. He saw it projecting before his eyes like it had just happened and his head started to spin, making him confused about what he would do when he meets Yibo face to face. But even if he just passionately grabbed him, pinned him against the wall, and started kissing him fiercely, he wouldn’t care anymore. For Zhan, this was already too disturbing a state of mind and he was ready to do whatever he could to release that pressure.   

The next day, he headed to the city bustle again and finally got off in front of Yibo’s apartment. It was actually a great apartment building in the modern district, not that different from his own, but in quite a big distance. He rang at the bell and waited for Yibo to let him in. It was his first time coming there. 

The junior’s flat was modern and well equipped as well. The green colour of his sofas and many other decorations and accessories didn’t let him doubt that this flat was designed by him. Zhan thought that Yibo also had a very good taste and style, after all. Everything was designed with sober elegance typical for Yibo. 

Zhan was looking all around with interest. But the most breathtaking and stunning was still the homelord. Yibo was wearing a green collared sweater and black jeans, nothing extra but it was definitely of a great quality and expensive and it suited him so well that Zhan paled in the moment he saw him. His eyes immediately lingered at Yibo’s eyes that made an impression of using eye liner - so striking and beautiful they were. But he quickly looked away and decided not to observe him too much because otherwise, he couldn’t resist at all. 

Yibo himself was so calm and expressionless that Zhan could hardly know what he thought. It made Zhan nervous like hell even though he was doing all he could to remain cold-headed. Yibo looked like a God of Peace and it made senior even more stressed. Why had one of them the privilege to be so composed when the other was in such a turmoil. How the hell did he do it?

But Yibo was like he didn’t notice any such mental fight in the countenance of his visitor … or he pretended not to. He gently offered him a cup of coffee.

After a while when Zhan needed to compose himself, he said. “No, just a cup of tea, please.”

Yibo smiled. “Fine, black, green or herbal?”

“Herbal please,” Zhan replied while still catching his breath. 

Yibo departed to make the tea and coffee for himself but he didn’t interrupt the conversation. “Do  you have that script?” he asked, waking Zhan from his thoughts. 

“Yeh, of course,” he said quickly and headed to his bag to pick it up and put it on the table. “Here you are. I even brought you the series bible. There is everything you need to know about the broader context of your character.”

Yibo gave him a warm smile. He brought the cups and put them on the table, then grabbed the script and slowly started to go through it. 

He was apparently excited which made Zhan feel much better. Freed from Yibo’s constant deep gaze, the senior finally had time to really calm down and the fragrance of the tea or its delicious taste and warmth made him even calmer. His eyes traveled to the script as well but he still couldn’t help not to squint at Yibo’s face and observe his mimicry. He was in love with every single feature of his face and his every gesture. Even the way he was biting his lip and furrowing his brows when he was contemplating. After a while of observing him he remembered Yibo talking about him watching Yibo during filming the Untamed and how someone captured it and fans were thinking about it as a gaze full of love. Well, were they correct? Now, it was evident. But this time, he was willing to admit it. Though, Yibo once again didn’t see him and, this time, no one was shooting. 

He got lost in the sea of his own thoughts, ideas and dreams till Yibo’s voice finally brought him back to reality. 

“Well, I get it. Nianzhen is really a bit similar to Lan Zhan, but actually just a little. He is not so aloof nor uncomunicative. Otherwise, he is a prince. Clever, strong and even understanding but still superior in his own way. And he doesn’t like Wu Ning.”

In other words, he doesn’t like me, Zhan thought and grimaced. At least from the beginning their roles were supposed to be in conflict. But Zhan hoped Yibo would not want to get into the role too much.  

“Yes, because he doesn’t believe him,” the senior explained carefully and nodded. 

“He has got good reasons as I can understand from the script,” Yibo continued, raising his brows. 

Zhan’s cheeks slightly turned to scarlet. “Well … yes. But Wu Ning has the right to behave like that.”

Yibo put the script down, thinking. He couldn’t help not to cross his shoulders. 

“So what is your primary intention as Wu Ning? To help the needed one - the girl from foreign country - or to get revenge?”

“Ohh, Yibo-ge, that is obvious! … It is to help the damsel. If I wanted revenge so much, I would find a way to infiltrate the royal family a long time ago,” he mused wryly, it was a challenging gesture for Yibo. 

“That is not true. You could hardly do it without a good reason. This situation gives you a pretext. It makes you look trustworthy,” he opposed. 

“Huh, ok, ok, you might be right. I give up,” he said with a bit of an excusing tone and after a while of thinking and Yibo’s challenging expression, he just shook his head and continued. “Ok, then. You are right. You are the one crystal clear and fair in the story and I am the one who is conflicted and who comes with twisted intentions but I have good reasons. Once again.”

Seeing Zhan sincerely offended and angry, Yibo chuckled. “I am not attacking you. We are just talking about it. Just stay calm,” he told him conciliatorily. 

Zhan deeply inhaled and he felt a bit ashamed for his behaviour but he was really feeling insecure when Yibo started to tease him. It was not his fault that he was always in the role of a more vulnerable one. But his character was in fact also very strong and admirable. 

Feeling a bit uncomfortable, he looked at Yibo and asked. “Could you play some music, please? I like some background, it can be even just some ambiente music.”

Yibo hesitated but he agreed. He went to the computer and started playing some deep house music - something that wouldn’t disturb them but they wouldn’t fall asleep while listening to it as well.

“Thank you,” Zhan said with gratitude. 

“You are welcome.”

“You might not exactly like me … in the drama … but as we get to know each other, we will eventually become friends. That is why even my character will not be able to address his revenge on Nianzhen … and his sister. He will be only after the king, his emotions will be very fragmented but it makes him very vulnerable. It would be definitely easier to fight you all than to fight only one member of the family and persuade others to believe him. Later, he will even find out that he couldn’t make it alive without Nianzhen’s help.”

Yibo nodded, “I see. He must be very conflicted.”   

Zhan looked at him with a long and profound glance through his eyelashes. “Yes, but Niangzhen is going to be as well. He doesn’t know who to believe. In the end he decides to seek the truth at all costs. Even if it would cost his House the throne…”

Yibo has been thinking about it for a long time. 

“But he is a very righteous person again,” Zhan continued. “For Wu Ning's luck.” 

“So he will help him and save him.”

Zhan nodded again, his mind in turmoil.

“He must have a very deep friendly feeling for him,” Yibo said more for himself than to others. 

But Zhan didn’t think about it like that. The more he was deeply plunged into his thoughts of his role the more he had an urge to say, “It might have been even something more.” 

His hand suddenly started to travel closer to Yibo’s but he unexpectedly raised his eyes from the script and looked at the direction of the living room, withdrawing it away. He looked at Zhan. “Let’s go to the living room, it will be more comfortable than sitting here … and we will have more space.”

He stood up and cleaned up dishes while Zhan straightened his back on the chair, sighing. He was pale like a sculpture but Yibo didn’t look at him. Otherwise, he would probably be alarmed, asking if he felt ok. 

Zhan’s pulse was galloping and he was doing all he could to calm down his breath and the tension that was clanching his chest. It was suffocating. 

Why the hell was he so nervous? 

Yibo went back to the kitchen, leaving the senior alone. Nevertheless, Zhan was glad to have this unexpected break. He went to the bathroom, locking the door. But he felt sick. His hand touched his forehead checking the temperature and finding out how hot he was. 

Was he ill or was that just from that unbalanced state he was in? 

It made him both surprised and alarmed but he splashed his face with cold water several times and it made him feel better in no time. In any case, he couldn’t find a trace of his usual self here in this room right now.

Yibo prepared some refreshment and put it on the table but Zhan’s absence surprised him. When the doors opened again he looked at the doors at Zhan and smiled. 

The senior headed to him but the music playing in the living room made him slow down. It was the song Life of Us from his album US.

His eyes widened and he looked at Yibo. 

“Why did you choose this music?”

Yibo chuckled with an amused expression. 

“Because I like it. It is lively music but it doesn’t disturb me. It’s fine as a background. I sometimes play it like this. Do you mind it?”

Zhan was shocked. Has Yibo just said that he listens to his albums in general? He sat down and gave the junior an observing look but he couldn’t deny that he liked it. 

“No,” he replied. “It has just surprised me. I thought …”

Yibo’s lips twitch. “What? … Have you thought that I would never play anything from you? I like and admire your work, Lao-Xiao. I thought you know that.”

He meant it but he said it just like he was saying the most ordinary thing in the world. Then, he grabbed the script again and before Zhan even managed to say a word, he dragged him into a profound discussion of their upcoming drama again. 

After a time that seemed to be just a while for Zhan, it was already seven o’clock p.m. and the sky outside went dark. The city lights turned on and the high skyscrapers shined into a festive, winter night. Zhan almost forgot that he brought Yibo a present but it was the last thing he was right now thinking about. His mind was full of doubts about how he should tell him about his feelings and redirect the conversation from work to something else, more intimate. 

But no words that came to his mind were right. He couldn’t figure it out. No words in this world could describe his emotions and feelings as he wanted and nothing could drive away the shade of doubts and fear coming from his worries that he didn’t feel the same.

When Yibo realised how late it was, he came up with the idea to order some food and he ordered noodles from a local bistro that was not far away. He noticed that Zhan was more silent than usual but he thought it was because of his reflection over his dialogues. Zhan used to do that when he was focused on something. Though, the words of his song Spotlight just played in the stereo and he became curious. 

“When did you write this song? How did you come to it?”

Zhan widened his eyes in misunderstanding. He didn’t listen and he was not sure what he was asking about. 

“The song,” Yibo explained while the words “We were made to love” were repeatedly sounding. 

“When did you write it and what made you come to the idea?”

Zhan was in shock. The song came to light on april 2020 and it was a huge comeback of Zhan back to the spotlight after his life went through several rifts. He made it with an international team of authors except the USA, Europe and Spain and it became a phenomenon. Just the first day he sold over 24 millions of copies. At that time, they were already with Yibo going their separate ways. But Zhan was shocked that he opened this topic. His face adopted a more lukewarm expression when he took a cup of tea Yibo poured for him and sipped. 

Yibo was waiting for a response but when it didn’t come he continued. 

“I know it was very famous but I never found out more. The song is cool, I love R’n’B and electronic sound. I just remember myself thinking if … some girl inspired you to write it… I mean, I really had a feeling you had to write it for someone…"

He was also sure that it was not for him. 

Zhan was looking at him with disbelief. After a while he chuckled and snorted. “It was not just me who worked on the text, Lao-Wang. I just wanted to do something with positive energy and … inspire people to share love instead of hatred,” he replied. “But I didn’t think about anyone in particular,” he continued with a slight stub in his heart. 

It was right. 

There was none he would consider to be his in that time. 

In fact, he felt alone. 

The song was his comeback after the adversity. 

“Oh,” Yibo said, looking a bit uncertain when the bell finally rang. He brought the meal inside and they started to eat. In silence. 

Yibo seemed lost in his thoughts while Zhan was discretely looking at him, studying his face and expression. Did he feel ashamed? 

He was agitated more and more till his eyes stuck at the camera. And then, he got an idea. 

His eyes sparkled and he looked at Yibo, who was still focused on his meal. 

“Do you remember how we were talking about the photoshoot and if I could help you?”

Yibo looked up from his noodles and nodded, not being sure where the conversation was pointing at. 

“Fine, let's start today. I will take some photos. I would like to see you in action.”

Yibo was surprised. 

“Now? It is late,” he said, surprised and disconcerted.  

“I…” Zhan hesitated. “I can stay if you don’t mind. No one is waiting for me tonight and there is still a lot of time. Next time. We will be busy with something else.”

Yibo snorted but he still didn’t refuse. He looked at the camera and nodded. “If you can use it,” he said.

Zhan smiled and took it to his professional hands. Of course he could. He had a lot of experiences with photoshoots and when someone learned how to use one, others cameras weren’t that different either. But this was even the same brand he had, just newer. “On the contrary. This is better type than I have and I am quite curious what it can do. There are definitely new functionalities.”

Yibo turned over at him and pointed at the library. “There are instructions, if you need.”

Zhan nodded, went to the place Yibo pointed at and found it. He was just studying for a while. But before he emerged into the job there was still something he wanted to make clear. “Can I stay here overnight, then?” he asked, thinking, where Yibo would let him sleep if he said yes.

Yibo was clearly hesitating but in the end, he nodded. Though, he didn’t tell him anything more but “Stay here, I need to refresh myself.” 

It was already 20 o’clock and he went to the bathroom to take a shower.

Zhan caught a second breath with the camera in his hand and started to prepare the right mood for the photoshoot. He cleaned the sofa, transferred the chairs under the window and next to the library, brought some red fabric and covered the light to make a dim light with green/red tint and moved various decorations to various spots to make an excellent scene. Then, he quickly changed the music on the stereo to something more… appropriate. Finally, he dressed down his jacket and left it on a chair in the dining room. 

When Yibo came back, the room was so different that he gasped. He was slowly looking all around with a surprised expression, shaking his head. “You have an extraordinary sense for the colours and game of shadows and lights, Zhan-ge,” he said admiringly. 

Senior was already waiting with his camera at hand, he smiled at Yibo’s notion.

Zhan didn’t have any need to change him because he looked so good that it would be a sin to put away even a single hair on his shirt. On the other hand, there might be something more. And he immediately knew what it would be. He went back and picked up a man’s pendant that was divided into two layers and cascaded down to the center of the boy’s chest. He gently put it over Yibo’s neck and let it glitter in the light of the lamp. 

“Fine,” he finally smiled and asked the junior to pose. 

Yibo was not sure what to do but he was already used to everyone letting him do what he could. It was always enough. So he started to move over the room, listening just to Zhan’s low voice navigating him from the chair, to the sofa, to the wall and window while Zhan was following him with the camera, taking pictures. But when they had more than 20 taken, there were none of those he had seen on social media lately. 

Yibo was restraining himself, with every single movement focusing on his control and intention not to go too far. The result was still brilliant - with a handsome face, sturdy, athletic body and elegant poses. But it was not that. And Zhan wanted him to go far beyond. He wanted him to show his real, unrestrained self, the one he once saw on the photos from France, and far more. Because even that was not enough. He stopped for a while, hesitating about how to say that. But there were not any excuses he could use and he decided not to beat around the bush. 

“The photos are brilliant, but be more provocative and saucy,” he said with a hint of shameless spark in his eyes. 

Yibo was not looking at him. His eyes were focused on the ceiling but when the words slipped from Zhan’s mouth, he turned his head and looked at him with raised eyebrows. 

“Provocative and saucy? … and isn’t that exactly you didn’t want me to be?” he asked and the corners of his mouth twitched.

“Zhan smiled but his eyes were burning. “Just show me what you can do. As you said. So many people loved it. I want to learn from you.”

Yibo chuckled and lifted his body again. 

“You want to learn?” he said with an amused but dangerous undertone. There was something that seemed to be off and he started to suspect Zhan. But when he wanted provocative poses, he might have them. 

And so they continued. 

The music was slow, calm and sensual. It didn’t distract but it did something else. It made Zhan’s pulse rise together with every single photo he made. There was nothing else than this moment, when he was focused on the photographed person and even checking the results on the display, that could make him see and feel it so much - it, everything - All Yibo’s sexy curves, features of his nose, cheeks and chin. His glittering eyes and his full, moistened lips. During the photoshoot, he saw it all and in the most provocative poses and most attractive and both mystical and romantic mood he could create in the apartment with all he had. 

He knew what he did. Very well. 

Yibo came to sofa and lied down with his left leg bent in 90 degrees, his back supported with his elbows while his head was touching the armrest of the sofa, slightly uncovering graceful carves of Yibo’s neck, adam’s apple and all the side profile with his half-open lips, attractively calling him to come closer and kiss it. 

Zhan listened and came closer. But he just gently touched his left cheek and made Yibo turn his face more into the camera. Yibo’s eyes seemed to be surprised till he understood what Zhan wanted and followed his gesture like an obedient student. Zhan took another photo, and another … and another. Once with light, once without it. He sometimes even used another lamp to light the scene more. But he was slowly losing it. 

He was losing himself and his self-control reached dangerous waters that could spoil his plan. The music he played changed for another that was too crazily sensual. He had a feeling he might go and scream, calling for release of the tension that welled up inside of him, fighting the urge to undress even his shirt under the heat he suddenly felt. And Yibo? He was just enjoying the time. 

Zhan deeply inhaled while announcing a break, put away the camera and leaned against the table to catch a breath, listening to the songs. Yibo slowly sat down on the sofa and looked at him with an innocent expression. 

“We can stop, if you want,” he said leisurely, looking at the clock that showed 22 o’clock p.m. 

But Zhan just drank from a glass of water and said, “No! I also want to try.”

Zhan had a feeling that Yibo was laughing at his face but he was not going to make it for him that easy. 

He came over and gave him the camera. 

“Now, we will switch roles. You will take a picture and I will pose.” 

The words left his mouth so automatically and self assuredly like there couldn’t exist any objections at all. But Yibo hesitated. And he knew that he had a reason. 

Meanwhile, Zhan prepared and went to the sofa, sitting down and leaving Yibo behind. Junior took the camera to his hands standing with his back turned to him but Zhan could feel his sudden insecurity even from his profile. 

His lips pressed together and his gaze became even more intense. 

No, I will not withdraw, he thought decisively. 

Zhan was Zhan. 

He was a person to whom others were enabled to resist, especially in such circumstances. Even Yibo knew this. And he probably already at least suspected where the occasions were going to.

His movements became more careful when he was taking the camera and turned to Zhan. 

“Oook. Show me what you can do, then,” he challenged him with his usual straightforward style. His eyes hid behind the camera but they were focused through the objective on the senior, who followed his order. 

He showed him. But it was the first time, when Yibo could see with his own eyes what Zhan was actually able to do and how far he was willing to go. 

Zhan was an extremely handsome man. If someone would compare him to others, he would mostly win, but the face and image he was really willing to show to people was always in some controlled limits he never crossed. But at that moment, it was different. He let all the barriers fall. 

It was just him and Yibo during a boundless night in the apartment in Beijing and the mask crushed together with the restraints. His long legs were directly asking for touch even when covered with the ironed coffee-coloured pants. His shirt gracefully traced the contours of his well-built frame, slightly shaking lips were partly opened, just like they were about to breathe in the cold air to extinguish that heat flaring his insides. His eyes narrowed into molten slits, burning with desire and an unyielding, provocative challenge. If his beauty remained elegantly striking for others it was alarmingly provocative and sensual for Yibo. Mixed with the words of the song: “...Baby I am yours, I need something more…,” the mood was dangerously arousing. 

Yibo swallowed on an empty throat, his body filling with a lust too fierce to defy. His brain couldn’t take it.

Was this just a dream? Who was this man?

The more he was watching him in various poses, unable to say a word, the more his desire rose, blended with admiration and a trembling sense of awe. But Zhan didn’t stop. He felt it too. And it might be even more overwhelming for him. But he was glad because he could see that it worked. 

For a while, he stopped posing and just listened to the words of another singer singing “In the middle of the night, just call my name, I am yours to tame.” He gently smiled at Yibo.

Junior, encouraged with Zhan’s smile, put down the camera and came closer, observing his face. 

“How am I doing?” the senior asked. 

Yibo just slightly gasped with his cheeks turning red. There were not many people who could make him blush. 

“I think that you are usually unnecessarily holding back during shooting. It is a shame people can’t see what I have just seen.” 

Zhan chuckled. “Really?” he asked. “...I can do even more,” he said playfully in a low voice and his hands traveled to his shirt, slowly undoing the buttons. After a while, the white fabric uncovered his sturdy belly and chest that was slowly moving with his breath.   

Yibo’s breath remained stuck in his throat for a while and his eyes flared up. He hardly swelled down, a wave of goosebumps running through his body. Not from fear but from the overwhelming tension in the room, that was already suffocating them both. 

But Yibo still didn’t make the first move. 

“Tell me,” he asked instead. “What is this all about? Why did you start playing this music? Did you plan this visit with an intention to seduce me?” he asked openly, raising his eyebrows. 

Zhan looked at him with an expression of a man who knew what he wanted and who couldn’t be intimidated.

“And what if I did?” he inquired with a self-assured tone. 

Yibo gently smiled, shaking his head. “I underestimated you. I didn’t know you were so bold.”

Zhan nodded. “To tell the truth, I didn’t know it either,” he explained with his eyes shamelessly following Yibo’s lips with the rising intention to devour them. He lifted up, slowly crawling closer and counting down the last seconds. “Maybe, it is an instinct…” 

Yibo looked at the stereo and slightly shivered again. 

“Geeez, this music makes me want you even more,” he whispered, his voice trampled.

Zhan groaned with desire. 

“Then, do - something - about it!”

Yibo’s mouth twitched but he lifted his hand and with his index finger traced the contour of his lover's lips, just like he wanted to remember it with his touch before he would stain it forever. The lips he has never touched or kissed … till now. 

Only then did he finally pull Zhan closer and soothe the hunger of his yearning.

Chapter Text

When Yibo woke up in the morning, he felt fresh and satisfied, just like nothing in his life was missing. He was relaxed and in an exceptionally good mood. The only uncomfortable feeling was a preassure on his right arm that was freely stretched over the bed.

He was still sleepy and confused and it took him a moment to remember that he didn't fall asleep alone. But when he turned his head, his eyes immediately lingered on the face of the most handsome man in the world.

Zhan was still plunged deeply in his dreams with his eyes shut and his mouth slightly opened but he looked unexpectedly good even after the night and with his hair disheveled. Watching him like that Yibo's lips curved into a small smile.

Senior was sleeping with his head on junior’s arm and it started to get numb, but he didn't move. He just turned on the side to peacefully watch Zhan's face and his chest in regular and slow motion. Senior was actually resembling a man after a very exhausting sail over the wild ocean for whom Yibo was like a harbour where he could finally rest in peace, he could already understand where his turbulent feelings came from. 

Yibo knew that Zhan was a person who mostly controlled himself and did all his best to look neat, nice and balanced - everywhere and on every occasion he wanted to be perfect and represent well. That was something in which Zhan was better than him and he could even admit it. He always looked self-assured, mature and brilliant. He very rarely even raised the volume of his voice or let himself be provoked. 

Yibo has never realised what reaction he helped to provoke and gradually foster throughout these months since their meeting in Hong Kong. He really didn't know what Zhan's feelings for him used to be and what they were since then. But if he didn't understand after last night, he would be just a silly fool. 

He could hardly close his eyes to what he saw the previous night and it would be even exceedingly cruel to pretend. All Zhan's feelings were so readable like a book and were absolutely sincere. It was all real and honest. Even if he tried to deny it, and he didn't, his body language would still reveal the truth. 

He could still feel his lustful body completely surrendering to his touch. Senior moaned and groaned as Yibo snuggled up to him from behind on the bed and gently merged with him while his arm traveled over his shoulder and grabbed his right hand that was previously just urgently clutching the sheets in passionate agony. Though, even that was not enough. His lamenting mouth, unable to kiss, still lusted for attention as well, so serior grabbed Yibo's hand and started to lick his fingers just like he wanted to devour them. Zhan was starving for him to take possession of every inch of his body without shame or regret. It was a state that personally shocked his younger lover. He wouldn't expect to have such an impact on him, to make him so hungry for a single touch, so vulnerable. 

But it happened and Zhan couldn't conceal it any more, nor could Yibo ignore it. They were sleeping together in one bed and junior was thinking about what to do next. It was one passionate night. But could he just easily say that it meant nothing? Could he do that to Zhan? To himself? He couldn't. Not to mention that he was already now thinking that it would be actually nice to repeat it. And not just once. Though, there was still that other question: how could they live such a life? Seeing each other once in time to satisfy their desire? He was not sure if it was enough for senior. 

As he was thinking about their mutual future, he lifted his hand and very gently caressed Zhan's forehead and temple, pushing back his hair around his left ear. Zhan slightly shook his head just like he was trying to chase away some intrusive fly, mumbled something under his breath and continued sleeping. But Yibo repeated the action with a mischievous smile, making the senior finally open his eyes. 

Zhan's eyes slightly widened for a very breaf moment but when he saw Yibo smiling, it lit up. 

“Morning,” junior greeted quietly in a low and soft voice. 

Zhan replied with a sheepish smile. He lifted his arm and took Yibo's hand into his own, intertwining their fingers as if he needed to feel that closer and merging connection again. But Yibo couldn't continue in these pleasurable activities. It was heartbreaking for him to wake Zhan up but he had to. Unlike him, he already didn't have the day off. 

It was 8 o’clock and his alarm started to ring. Zhan looked at it with a gloomy expression and groaned. 

“I will stop it,” Yibo said swiftly while he leaned over Zhan's body to do as he said. 

When he was moving back Zhan suddenly grabbed him and pulled him closer. His lips passionately tasted Yibo's, pulling his tongue into junior’s mouth for a morning teasing duet. Yibo couldn't do more than moan “ahhhnmm” and subdue but he managed to free himself after half of a minute, panting. He didn't expect Zhan to be such a passionate person. 

“I …  I am sorry …  but I need to go. Let's leave this for later.”

Zhan smirked and let him go. 

He watched Yibo walking over the bedroom in his bare, naked form enjoying that eye-satisfying view. He sat on the bed and rested for a while before getting on and dressing. "By the way, where are you going?" he asked curiously, realising that he didn't know. 

Yibo turned away from his wardrobe. He was holding a freshly washed sportswear. It was apparent that his target was not any formal event or his office. 

“To the dance studio,” he explained in the middle of dressing. “I am training for a performance for the end of the year show.”

Zhan nodded. “Ahh, is it the same performance you have already performed in Wu-Chan?”

Yibo sneered. “Of course not. I never have the same. It would be unprofessional from a celebrity of my level."

Zhan smiled. From a celebrity of Yibo's level. Of course.

“Then I am very curious about it. It's a shame I can't watch it.”

Yibo was just getting on his jeans when he looked at the senior, perplexed.

“You can, it will be in the media.”

“Yeh, but I am going with friends to Japan for a skiing vacation. For the whole week.”

Yibo was sincerely surprised. Finished, he turned wholly to Zhan and observed him. “For the whole week?”

Not that it was something unusual but he was so busy lately as well as Yibo that to have a vacation for the whole week was luxury. It signaled something and that was what made Yibo surprised, maybe even worried.

Zhan nodded. “I just have had a feeling I really need a break lately. The work can wait after all. We can't overwork ourself, Xiao-Wang.”

Zhan couldn't help not to wish Yibo to ask him to join them, at least for a while. After all, he was a great sportsman. But he knew that he wouldn't do it. 

Yibo just shrugged. “Good for you. Everyone sometimes needs a break.”

Zhan grinned. “Everyone? Even you? Sometimes it looks like you never need any…”

Yibo rolled his eyes. For a very short moment he thought that he didn't want to bicker. 

“Even me.”

Zhan was already dressed. Now, he was watching him with his very profound lover’s gaze, though, this time in the light of the new situation, it had different importance. He slowly came to Yibo and cupped his right cheek with his hand before curling up into a loving embrace again. “I am sorry, I just can't stop,” he explained harshly before touching Yibo's lips with his own again, passionately kissing him.

He was acting so determinedly that it was hard to oppose. But Yibo didn't stop him, otherwise. He pulled him even closer and responded with his own kiss that was even deeper and more urgent than before. When they finished, they were both panting, holding their hands with their foreheads pressed to each other. 

“I don't want you to go,” Zhan pleaded with his heart broken.

Yibo shook his head, “I have to,” he insisted, looking at the senior's eyes again. “But don't worry, we will meet again soon.”

Zhan sighed. “Will it still be the same?” 

The question was suffocating him, but he needed to know. He needed some sort of assurance that there was some future for them. Was Yibo willing to continue?

“Not in public. But we don't have to change it in private. Right?”

Zhan was hesitant but even he didn't see a better solution. At least not now. They could hardly go hand in hand outside. 

“By the way,” Yibo asked suddenly. “Is your car still here?”

He utterly forgot to ask yesterday but if it was, it might mean a lot of gossip if someone saw Zhan coming. 

Though, Zhan chuckled. “No, I asked my bodyguard to take it home, no one knows I am still here.”

Almost…

“And who is going to pick you up then?” Yibo asked, apparently relieved.

“My coworker, Bao. I can believe him. Don't worry. He knows a lot about me. Or better to say, everything.”

“Fine,” Yibo replied. Thinking. 

Even if they were going to pretend they still needed someone who would know even their secrets. For Yibo, it was his manager and several friends. He was glad Zhan had someone too. 

He sighed and led Zhan outside but they had to go their own ways then. 

Yibo was hesitant but he softly smiled at the doors. “We will stay in touch, don't worry.”

Zhan just nodded and hugged him one last time before letting him finally go. 

When Yibo left, Zhan was waiting for his car for another 10 minutes. Suddenly a male voice echoed from the speaker. 

“I am here, should I go inside?”

“Yes, I will get on in the garage...” 

Zhan hid in the back of the car when they were leaving. He really didn't want anyone knowing he was there overnight. It would be a flood of gossip that would just complicate their life. It was enough that people were seeing them to meet. 

There were always some theories and discussions but it became such a standard that Zhan mostly didn't perceive it. If people knew what they were doing this time at night they would go crazy. But this was something he actually still thought about even in that deliriate state he was in. 

No scandals, no sensations. 

When he left Yibo's home Bao took him to his own apartment first. They still had a lot of free time and it was more safe then going from Yibo directly back to Zhan. 

“Don't say a single word!” Zhan said urgently. 

“And have I ever said anything?” Bao asked, offended. “I am as quiet as a grave.”

Zhan smiled. “Thank you very much. It is really very important.”

Bao understood his coworkers' worries but he would never do anything that could hurt him. He nodded and asked. “Would you like a cup of coffee and tea?”

Senior nodded. “A coffee please.”

Bao prepared two coffees while Zhan was thinking about the upcoming weeks and months. It was hard to say what he felt after the night with Yibo. It was … overwhelming. So many experiences that were so new for him and with so much awakened and disturbed emotions. He still had his head full of every moment - kisses, touches and moans. His body was still even slightly painful and sensitive, especially in some particular places. But it was the last thing he would care about. He was hardly able to believe that he and Yibo made such a progress but it once again brought some complications they had to overcome. How were they going to meet each other without everyone knowing? 

Yes, they could make excuses like “We are going to train the roles together” even during shooting but they could hardly do it very often. Was he overthinking it when he thought that no one would believe they are just coworkers if they lived together in one room or a caravan? Even during shooting? Maybe he was. But even if the crew just discretely tolerated it and didn't bring it to the public it would still sooner or later get outside the set. And it would steer rumour mania that would just complicate their lives. It would be unsettling to get such news slip to the public because there would always be people who would make their life more difficult with prejudice and defamation. The easiest way to prevent it was to pretend that there was not any relationship at all. 

When Zhan thought about their possibilities, he wrote a list of places where they should shoot the drama in their country and a crazy thought came to his mind. When he came to Bao, his expression was pleading. 

“I know I want a lot but I desperately need your help. I need to find some accomodation for me and Wang Yibo, ideally such that would have different entrance doors but it was somehow connected, by corridor, covered courtyard, basement. Whatever could work for us. But I don't want to call myself for obvious reasons. Can you try to find something, please?”

Bao was looking at him like a mad man. “How should I do that? Am I supposed to call every accomodation in our country and ask?”

Zhan gave him a significant look and Bao rolled his eyes. “I will go crazy from you and Yibo. Since that day in Hong Kong, you have been behaving like a fool. Why are you complicating your life so much?”

Zhan sighed and sat down in his chair again, “If you are asking, you have never really loved someone.”

With this note, Bao shut up. He had a girlfriend but he was sincerely asking himself if he would still be with her if things were like this. He was complicating his life and now, he complicated it to him as well. 

“With your income, you could just buy your own neighbouring property all over the country and break through to connect two flats in each building. You can rent the rest or sell it later. You can even have your own retail and I wouldn't have to be for such a fool.”

Zhan gasped, “Hahaha, really funny. But I am not going to buy out all the properties around because of one shooting.” He grabbed his hand with an urgent proposal. “Please, please! Just say what you want to repay it. I will buy you everything. Even a new car.”

Bao’s jaw dropped down. He knew that Zhan was rich lately but buying him a new car?”

Though, senior looked quite serious. He glanced at him through his glasses and shook his head, but he accepted the challenge with sparkling eyes, “I want a villa by the sea. In Thailand.”

Zhan widened his eyes in surprise but after a while he started to laugh. Bao chuckled as well, though he utterly paled with Zhan's other response. “Fine, help me with all those things around Yibo and I will buy you even the villa."

Bao's pulse rose and his cheeks turned scarlet. “Seriously? It was just a joke, geez!!! I am your friend, I don't need cars or houses to help you!” he said, offended. 

Zhan sighed. “Well, but I want to give something to you. Then ask something else.”

Bao reflected for a while. After some moment his eyes lit up. “If you still want to do something for me, give me two tickets to your movies and dramas free of charge. My fiancee loves your work, we would be grateful.”

Zhan gasped. It still didn't look like enough but he had to think about something later. 

“Thank you very much,” he said happily without hesitation and hugged Bao around his shoulders. “You will help me come with some ideas, won't you?” he smirked. 

It was the main problem Zhan focused on before leaving for Japan. And he was thinking about it even there. 

When he left for the airport on 26th December he called Yibo to wish him a successful performance and arrange another meeting in the new year. Fortunately his worries that Yibo woudn't be willing didn't come true and they agreed for the day after his arrival. He accommodated himself with a group of his friends in one cozy hotel by the slope and spent whole week till the end of the new year by skying, tracking, wellnessing, sightseeing and enjoying their stay. But he still didn't forget to look for the news about Yibo and sent him some greetings. 

Wang Yibo was staying in Beijing but he was supposed to move to Canton at the end of the year. His schedule was so full that he didn't even have time to think about anything else. When the day of departure came, he had already resigned. Everything was trained, he could hardly do more the rest of the time. He needed a break. Fortunately, just like Neo Hou would read his thoughts he suddenly sent him a message. 

I saw you are going to Canton. Can I see you?

Yibo checked the time, it was already seven o'clock in the morning and he was at the airport once again, waiting for the plane. He even couldn't count how much time he spent on the way in his life. But he accepted Hou's message with gratitude. 

“Fine, I will be free today in the evening. Where are you?”

It was just a few seconds before the answer arrived. 

I am also in Canton. Don’t you read the news? I am going to perform on the show as well. But be ready, we are going to the party tonight!”

Yibo widened his eyes in disbelief. He had no idea what he was talking about. “No parties before performance,” he wrote reproachfully.

Don't worry. It's just a gaming party.

Now Yibo understood … and he thought that it might be nice. At least he could distract his thoughts from the upcoming responsibility. 

“Well, just write the address. I will be there.”

He came to the city before lunch and headed directly to his accommodation. It was about four o'clock p.m. when a bell rang. He looked at the door and went to open just to find Neo Hou in a blue hoodie and black jeans standing behind his doors. His usual mischievous smile was playing on his face already at the door. 

“Surpriiiiise!” he called, hugged him and patted him on his back. 

Yibo was perplexed but when he saw him, he started to smile as well. “Didn´t we agree to meet at the spot?”

Hou went inside looking around the flat. It was too modest for Yibo. He grimaced and pensively brushed his chin. Huh, is this the last accommodation that remained? He thought.

But he stayed silent and, instead, started to explain himself, “I know but I  had a lot of free time just waiting and I came to the conclusion that you could have problems getting to the location alone, so I came to accompany you.”

Yibo snorted. “Am I a five year old child?” he asked. But he understood that it was just teasing. 

“Ok, you got me,” Hou sneered. “The truth is that we have some time to talk in private and I haven´t seen you for a long time. So I came to have some friendly chat.”

“Oh, nice,” Yibo said in short and sneered. “It looks like you have something on your mind.” 

Hou sat down on the sofa watching Yibo unpacking his clothes. He was looking exceptionally good as usual. He had to. Since him becoming famous it was responsibility to be brilliant wherever he went. It was their fate, all of them had to maintain their popularity and value. But for some of them, it was as natural as breathing. And Hou was one of them. 

Only he could ambush Yibo like this. He was direct and everything went smoothly for him. He came to Canton for professional reasons as well but he needed some real abreaction and thought this was a great time to have some. There were several celebrities going to the show tomorrow, his old friends who had one hobby in common with him. Why not have some fun? Yibo knew where they were going to go but he didn't know what exactly they should do there. He expected just gameplay. 

Junior knew that Hou was curious like a girl so he was not surprised when his young colleague started to interrogate him about everything important from his last years of living. After less than one hour of the meeting they found out that they had a lot in common. Hou was just talking about his last drama that came to the streaming and which meant huge success. 

“And what about you? You started to specialize elsewhere, lately. You are tearing a bunch,” he said suddenly and surprised Yibo. 

Junior sipped from a glass of water. “I focused on movies. Mostly because the dramas cost me too much time and I had a lot of different activities to do. With my busy schedule I had to choose. I couldn´t do everything.”

Hou nodded. “I, on the other hand, am doing mostly dramas. I like it, we have got a lot of fun on the set and playing romantic or brotherly dramas is so much exciting fun.” He chuckled with his expression reflecting satisfaction and pride. 

Yibo admired Hou's enthusiasm. He was not sure if he could say the same. In fact, he played several romance dramas with various actresses a years ago and his last real romance dramas with female partners were Gank your heart and Legend of Fei. But it was not his cup of coffee and because it always ended up with some CP fandom leading to some CP wars, he rather buried these dramas in the past. He couldn't understand why there were some actors like Neo Hou who never had such problems, no matter what they played. 

Neo Hou was such an excellent and handsome actor but no matter if he played in the Lost tomb, Fangs of fortune or any other romantic drama, it never went awry and he could safely and happily continue in it without any conflicts and restrictions. What was that charm he used to utterly control the situation? 

In any case, his old experiences made Yibo practically erase all the romance from his movies and dramas and focus on the story. On the other hand it had some advantages.

Almost as Hou had read his mind, he suddenly said. “You don´t film any romance dramas for years and still, so many people would love to see you in any romance or at least historical and costume drama.”

Yibo sipped from the glass again. It was almost empty, signalizing that it was time to go. 

“It´s just not what I like,” he explained without any need to say more.

“Then, I am surprised you are playing in the upcoming drama. I wonder what is behind it.” 

Hou couldn't help not to mention the obvious. He even shamelessly winked at him. But Yibo's expression signalled that he was not willing to say more on this topic. "Life is full of surprises,” he said simply. "Can we go then?” 

Hou's eyes sparked. 

“Yes, I am ready.”

A while later, they were already getting to the car that brought them to the center of the city. Hou was apparently in a good mood.

“You will be surprised what I have cooked up!”

Yibo's eyes shot up. When he talked about surprises he didn't expect one to come so early. “I thought we were just going to some gaming studio,” he said, perplexed. 

“We are going to a gamer´s dan on a gamer´s VIP party!”   

“Gamers VIP party?”

“Yeh, my friend is organizing it once a month, there are even competitions held, we can take part.”

Yibo smirked. “How could we? We haven´t got a team.”

Hou chuckled. “And that is where you are mistaken.”

This was intriguing. 

Junior already suspected that there would be more than just them two but Hou proved it very soon. 

When they entered the bar with the gaming studio on the first floor, several well known faces greeted him already at the entrance.

There were Yang Yang, Cheng Yi waiting and by the bar was siting Diliraba with Xu Kai. All of them actors who played or enjoyed gaming in their lives. 

Yibo's jaw dropped to the ground. He was not even exactly sure if he was happy about it but broad smiles on the mouths of their companions made him smile as well. He greeted them with a hand gesture. 

“Wow, you all came?!” he said in disbelief. 

“Hi there, we have already decided to make a team and enjoy the competition with Yang Yang, Diliraba and Chang Yi. You can join us as well if you want,” Xu Kai explained to both of them while Diliraba shot one of many curious looks at Yibo. He caught it and gently smiled. 

“What game?” he asked curiously. 

“We were thinking about Legends of heroes but when you are here, we decided to celebrate your favourite sport… e-sport … car rising…”

It was definitely something that could be fun for Yibo but he was very surprised that Diliraba was involved, he looked at her with a confused expression. “Car rising, you are playing as well?”

“Yeh,” she said, chuckling. “I love it. Did you think I am just playing some barbie games or family simulators?”

Yibo laughed. “Ok, I might join, are we going to make one team against others?”

“We are enough to make two teams, we can even play one against the other,” Yang Yang explained. 

“And who would be playing with whom?”

Hou immediately intervened. “I am playing against Yibo, that is the reason why we met after all…,” he chuckled. 

Yang Yang joined Yibo and Xu Kai decided to play against him. 

“I’m gonna kick your ass,” he grinned.

Diliraba was hesitating but she came to the conclusion it would be more fun to stay against Yibo and she boldly challenged him in another team. In the end they made two teams with Yibo, Yang Yang and Cheng Yi against Diliraba, Xu Kai and Neo Hou.

“How many laps?” Yang Yang asked.

“Ten is enough!” Hou replied. 

When all was arranged, they bought some drinks and headed to the computers, sitting down and adding their headphones on their heads. The members of every team sat into one row with one person next to another. When the numbers 3 - 2 - 1  appeared on the display, Yibo clenched his palm over his mouse with his pulse rising.

The competition started and his car drove on the road like a rocket with the engine roaring. They were competing with both their own or NPC cars and there were a lot of barriers on the road as well. The laps were leading through various places and terrains, once the city, next desert. The surrounding nature was even in the game passing so quickly that it was difficult to focus on what was going around. 

Using his skills from real life, Yibo threw himself into the race with the nature of a predator, overtaking most of the current competitors by the fourth lap. By the sixth lap, he was racing only against Yang Yang and Xu Kai. But in the seventh lap, Neo Hou surprised them all. He was catching a second wind at the last moment and taking the corners like Michael Schumacher.

The biggest surprise, however, was Diliraba, who seemed to have been saving her strength, misleading her opponents. Before the eighth lap, she shot forward like a sting, overtaking several racers at once until, before the ninth lap, she was right on the tail of Yang Yang’s car. Halfway through the ninth lap, she managed to overtake him in a dramatic battle and sped after Yibo.

Yibo was not willing to lose. He was shocked that it was Diliraba and a thought crossed his mind. One he was ashamed of. He couldn’t possibly lose to a woman!

Diliraba stepped on the imaginary gas and lunged forward at lightning speed, but Yibo blocked her path and tried to force her off the track in the final corner. Her car shuddered at the last second, skidding out just as Yibo shot ahead, moments later crossing the finish line.

The in-game stands erupted in applause and cheers echoed everywhere. 

Yang Yang finished third, Neo Hou fourth, and the rest followed behind. 

Xu Kai tore off his headset and threw it on the table in frustration. “Blody hell!” he cursed and looked at Yang Yang. “It was your fault, You pushed me off the track and I had a technical problem. Otherwise you wouldn’t get in front of me!”

Yang Yang shook his head. “It is just your lack of experience. You came into the corners too fast.”

They started to quarrel. Just like it was not enough, Neo Hou needed to add oil into the fire. “He is right, I saw you, you little rookie,” he said, amused. 

“I am a rookie?” Xu Kai asked wryly. “And who are you? You didn’t even make third place!”

Yibo snorted seeing them but he couldn’t miss the expression on Diliraba's face. It was victorious yet humble. Her eyes were focused on him. 

She ignored bickering mates, came to Yibo and lifted her hand to congratulate him while no one was watching. “It was a great match. You were awesome.”

Yibo’s expression was apparently bearing traces of deserved pride. “Thanks, you were an excellent opponent. I didn't know your hobby is playing raising games... Where did you learn it?”

Diliraba grinned, tilting her head. "Why so surprised? You think I don't look like the type? The truth is I even spent some nights practicing ... maybe I wanted to impress someone," she winked at him.

Yibo didn't suspect her of anything. His expression was as pure as the expression of an innocent baby when he asked “Impress someone? Who is the lucky one?”

She gave him a very meaningful look but she didn't voice her thoughts. “I was basically competing with a real racer… No wonder you are so confident. Do you always win this easily, or was I at least a little bit of a challenge?,” she continued.

Yibo raised his eyebrows. “You were actually really good, your abilities surprised me.”

Diliraba seemed to be pleased. “I’m just naturally competitive… You know, if we play again, I might actually beat you next time,” she said teasingly and winked at him. 

Yibo smirked. It was apparent he didn't give her a chance. “Actually, I wanted to be nice but when you say it like that, It wouldn't be so easy.

Diliraba softly laughed, her gaze meeting him with a playful challenge. “Really? Does it mean that you were going easy on me? But next time, don't hold back. It’s more fun when you make me work for it.”

He smiled, his cheeks turning slightly red. Suddenly he remembered the girl he used to know. Someone so hardworking, ambitious and nice at the same time. She was always the type who would work for her goals till she reached it and still she looked like a soft and lovely girl with an even more lovely youthful face. 

“I know,” he continued. “I remember it from the days when we used to work together. Your approach was admirable.”

Diliraba's expression softened. "You remember? I was so nervous back then ... trying to keep up with you. You were so steadfast, focused and untouchable. But I guess I did ok if you still remember."

Yibo's eyebrows lifted in quiet disbelief. “You tried hard? But you always looked like everything was easy for you.”

Diliraba laughed. “I was terrified half the time. You had that serious face and I was, trying not to mess up. But I loved it too. Especially the way you moved, precise, effortless. You made it easy to follow your lead. Sometimes I miss those old days when we danced until midnight and laughed about the smallest things. Though, you’ve become even more interesting since then.”

If Yibo didn't care much till now, he was intrigued now. His eyebrows arched in surprise. “More interesting? Why?”

 “Well… you used to be all discipline and silence. Like nothing could break through. But now… there’s something different. You still have that calm, serious side, with a spark and confidence that makes people want to get closer. But there is that soft gentleness and sensitivity behind it all. It makes you even more attractive."

Yibo fell silent. He smiled but he intentionally drew his sight away, starting to feel insecure and awkward. Suddenly he felt strange. 

Maybe she was right. And maybe there was something else behind that change. Or someone. But something about her attitude was different from how he knew her and it made him slightly nervous. Even Diliraba was not the girl from back then. “Maybe, we all have changed and we are seeing each other differently,” he said in a low voice. 

Noticing the flicker in his eyes, Diliraba tilted her head slightly. Her tone was gentle but laced with a subtle tension. “I can see you’re thinking about something,” she said quietly. “Or someone.” 

Yibo, blinked, pulled from his reverie. He felt sudden discomfort that was apparent on his face like a sun reflecting on a water surface. 

Diliraba smiled. “It’s okay. I like that look on you, thoughtful and a bit distant,” she chuckled and leaned a little closer, close enough for her perfume to reach him, voice lowering just enough to make it intimate. “You know, I used to wonder what it would take to get your attention. You were always so focused on your work, on your goals,” her lips curved into a small, seductive smile. “But now you’re here, talking to me. That feels like a start…”

A start of what? 

She was talking in riddles, still, he was not that dumb not to see what she was doing. But her closeness didn't seem comfortable for him at all. Leaning over the bar, he slowly straightened his back and pulled away from her. He covered his mouth with his palm and slightly caught out before lifting his hand and ordering some drink again. 

Diliraba understood and decided not to push. It has never worked. Instead, she composed herself and sipped from her own cup with a little bit sheepish smile, behaving like her last attempt to flirt never happened. Yibo looked at her again but his approach didn't bear a single trace of affection. There was a tension even Diliraba could easily feel. Though, she became even more curious, because it was not a tension of a man who didn't like to date girls, it was more a tension of someone who felt guilty flirting with her.

“Tell me, how are you doing? Are you happy in this industry?” Yibo asked suddenly with the intention to lead the discussion somewhere else. 

Diliraba nodded.“I was working hard and I am pretty satisfied with my achievements so far. But I still have a lot of dreams and goals to reach.” She chuckled with her sweet, girlish voice. Yibo gasped. It was not unusual that talking about work and hobbies made him more intrigued than a flirting girl. Now, he apparently became more interested in her. 

“What are they?”

“Some future roles, and goals in fashion, but the most important dream is my own fashion house.”

Yibo's eyes lit up. “Wow, that is actually awesome. It's a very nice dream.”

Diliraba was a Madonna of all fashion magazines, she was beautiful and very photogenic and professionals from the branch  quickly noticed it. The fashion worked so well with her that Yibo was not even surprised. But he admired her dedication. 

“It would suit you well,” he added with a sincere smile. 

Diliraba leaned closer again and said with her softly flirting tone. “If I had some, you could become my global branch ambassador.”

Yibo laughed but he didn't accept nor refused. Meanwhile, Neo Hou came to the bar followed by the others.

“What are you doing here you lovebirds,” he said with a mischievous smile on which Diliraba reacted with another observant gaze at Yibo. 

Yibo froze for a beat. He wanted to ignore it but changed his mind and just laughed it out, "Where do you see any lovebirds?”

Suddenly, Yang Yang emerged in front of them and lifted his hand to Yibo. “We came to congratulate the winner,” he said and shook the junior's hand. Cheng Yi and others followed.

“You deserve a cheer. Let's drink with us,” Yi suggested. 

It was already half past ten and the bar was full of people. The streetlamps outside were flickering into dark night and a mist unexpectedly covered the city streets with a mysterious vibe. 

“Fine, but it is one last.” Yibo agreed. “I already have to go.”

“Why are you in such a hurry? I thought we would have another competition," Neo Hou opposed. He still wanted to change the score. 

Yibo smiled. “Bro, we are not teenagers any more. I have rehearsals tomorrow and I want to rest well before the performance.”

Hou was just teasing him but none of them were pushing him to stay. He performed and needed to leave earlier as well, after all. But when Yibo was leaving, he stopped him at the entrance. “Wait, I forgot to arrange our schedule for upcoming training. We should start with the lessons in January. Which term did you choose?”

Yibo hesitated. He was not sure so he checked his calendar. “It's the third term - the weekend at the end of January.”

Hou nodded. “Fine, it works for me as well. See you there, then.”

The second day went quickly. 

He spent a lot of time by preparation and rehearsal on the stage, then moved to the stylist studio to get ready, had some light meal and headed to the show to sit down among the audience, watching performances of others. At half past seven he went to his numerous team of dancers and wished them good luck before the performance began. 

When the time finally came, the tension on his chest started to fade. He was deeply breathing when the music started to play and the ray of strong light suddenly lit the scene with him in the middle - the middle of the stage surrounded with other dancers and the middle of attention of the audience and fans who burst out with applause. And then, he let himself drift with the melody and movement. 

The choreography of the dance was once again praised even months after the performance and Yibo  became a focus of news and media that made him a sensation number one for the next several days. Even Diliraba and Neo Hou were eagerly applauding from the audience seats that day. And the performance quickly became popular abroad as well, except Japan.

Xiao Zhan came from one of the last days of skiing, pleasantly exhausted. He headed with his friends to the sauna to get some relaxation. When they came back they went to the saloon to get some drinks at the bar. Being in an exceptionally good mood, Zhan looked at others and lifted his hand. “This round is on me!” He called to others and sat on bar chair. As they were talking, the plasma TV was playing behind their backs and a feminine voice was telling the news. After a while a record of performance started. The heads of visitors except the one of Xiao Zhan's turned and looked at the show. When he saw Yibo, he gasped and opened his mouth. 

It was a stunning performance as usual, he could hardly miss the looks of others full of admiration. In the end there was a detailed shot at Yibo's face. He was deeply breathing with his longer hair disheveled after the dance and his skin wet with sweat. Yibo was apparently exhausted but happy and satisfied after successfully doing his job and in Zhan's eyes he looked so sexy that he had a need to draw him out of the display and kiss him. 

Nearby, Bao, who went on the vacation with him, was closely observing his reaction but when he saw his expression, he just softly smiled. Zhan's eyes were shining with joy. 

Zhan couldn't handle how different it was to see Yibo like this now, when he knew that they were together. Nothing in his life has ever felt so good. He was proud and so happy that he swept his eyes over the group and bought them another round of drinks just to celebrate Yibo's success. 

In the hotel, they all were accommodated with another person in the room. Zhan was with Bao. But when his friends plunged into deep conversation again he used the opportunity to have some privacy and went back to his room. 

It was nine o’clock in the evening, an hour after the dance and he didn't know where Yibo was and what he was doing but he felt such a need to talk to him that he couldn't help and called. The phone rang several times till it finished with the automatic record: The caller is unavailable, call back later please. But after a while the phone started to ring again. 

Zhan looked with excitement on the display and picked it up. 

“Hi, Lao-Wang!” he exclaimed enthusiastically. When he heard Yibo's voice, a warm feeling welled up his body. 

“Hi, Zhan-ge, how are you enjoying your stay?”

Zhan grinned. “It's fantastic. We are skiing every day and relaxing over the nights. It has been a long time since I had so much free time… there are a lot of skiers skiing free style here. You might like it.”

Yibo’s lips curved into a smile. He was actually snowboarding but that was really something that attracted him for a long time. A new type of adrenaline.

“But that is not why I call,” Zhan continued. “I have just seen your performance on TV in a local bar.”

“Ah, really? It was on Japanese TV?” Yibo asked, surprised. He didn't expect this. “And how did I do?”

Zhan chuckled. “It was so, so good. Really awesome! Everyone around was so hyped by you.”

Yibo smirked again, drying some water from his wet skin. He just came from the shower and streams of water were running down his neck from his wet hair. If Zhan saw him like that he would probably kiss all the drops out of his body. But he wasn’t. 

“Are you already home?” Zhan asked. 

“No, I just packed and took a shower. But I am going home now.”

Zhan felt a bit sad knowing how many things they could do if he was there with him. He grinned but he couldn't help not to inquire. 

“Alone?”

Yibo’s lips twitched. “And what question is this?” he asked with pretended seriousness. 

Zhan grinned again. 

“It is a question of a man who desperately desires to be there with you,” he said teasingly.  

A moment of silence was followed by Yibo's deep voice with a playful tone. “Are you willing to cross the ocean and come just for the night? I’d make you groan and plead for more… again.”

Zhan was lying on the bed in his room, looking outside on a white slope enlightened with lamps. The night skiers were skiing down the hill outside while snowflakes were slowly drifting around the lamp lights. But when he heard Yibo's words, his eyes widened in surprise and his jaw dropped down. This wasn’t the prudent Yibo of nowadays. This was the wild Yibo from his youth. 

He gasped and his cheeks turned color. “You! Such shameless words you are telling to your senior. You are making me blush.”

Yibo’s lips twitched. He didn't intend to stop. It was an impulse. A need coming from the deepest abyss of his heart. His tone became even more challenging and provocative. 

“Zhan-ge. Tell me the truth. Are you thinking about me? Do you remember the night? Did it stick in your memory so that you can't get it out of your head?” he paused, thinking. 

He didn't know what Zhan felt. The truth was that he himself couldn't forget the night. He had been trapped in his own memories since. Maybe it was the change Diliraba was talking about.This shameless Zhan. He came to disturb his inner peace. 

Senior chuckled, automatically playing with his pen in the fingers of right hand. He suspected where Yibo's words came from and he wanted to tease him as well. So many shameless things came to his mind considering Yibo that it threatened to burst like an overflowing dam.

“And you?” he asked. “Do you recall it all? Did you like it? Was that an unforgettable experience?”

Junior stopped breathing for a while. But then, he deeply inhaled, resigned. “I remember … everything,” he said almost shyly. 

Zhan's expression softened and his heart started to pound more quickly. “Do you remember how you called my name?” he asked a bit sheepishly but sincerely curiously. 

Yibo froze for a while. He was not sure. So many things happened. Was he so dazed that he even forgot calling Zhan's name? He slightly tilted his head in reflection and asked. “Did it sound sexy, at least?”

Senior paused in contemplation a slight shiver coming down his body and spine. 

“Actually, it sounded hungrily and urgently.” 

Yibo fell silent. Both of them seemed to emerge into their thoughts, unable to say more, till...

“Zhan-ge?”

Senior was waiting for him to say more but when he didn't continue, he asked. “Yeh, what is it?”

“Just come back. I want...," he paused for a while. "I need you here with me.”

A beautiful smile bloomed on Zhan's face. He knew how extraordinary and intimate it was for Yibo to say something like that. To plead him like that. Someone so untouchable and free spirited was hungry for his presence. It made him feel even more love than before.

Zhan's expression softened and his eyes glittered. The feeling of satisfaction filled his whole being. But he couldn't fulfill his wish. Not now. Not immediately. 

“It’s just a few days. I will come as soon as I return, I swear,” he replied.

He heard Yibo deeply inhale and exhale again. 

“Ok then. I am sorry but I have to go now. See you soon.”

The line clicked and then went dead.