***
Chapter 34 – Beyond Saving
Chi Lianxi’s filming set was located on the outskirts of the city. By the time he arrived at He Yujing’s place, the latter had already been drinking alone for some time.
He Yujing had bought this apartment in Metropolitan Park during his third year of university, moving out of his family residence in Gongshan. The area consisted solely of this residential complex, white art gallery and a waterside concert hall stood further away. On summer nights, the view was lush with greenery, and the distant lighthouse at the center of the lake cast a soft glow, creating a rare tranquility within the bustling city.
He Yujing lived on the very top floor of the building, with Chi Lianxi’s apartment directly below his. Stepping out of the elevator, Chi Lianxi walked into the apartment with familiarity. Beyond the living room’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the vast artificial lake in the park spread out below. After a brief look around, he finally caught sight of his friend standing by the bar.
He Yujing had already removed his makeup. Without the makeup, he looked more real than ever—but his eyes and brows were clouded with gloom, and he exuded a dispirited, suffocating aura.
From the moment He Yujing suggested meeting at his home instead of a bar, Chi Lianxi had guessed that tonight wouldn’t end well. Seeing him now, it was clear things were worse than he’d imagined.
Faced with He Yujing’s bleak, almost haunted expression, Chi Lianxi mentally steeled himself and boldly took a seat beside him. “So… you came home to lick your wounds alone?”
He Yujing didn’t even look up, listlessly pouring himself another drink.
Several empty bottles lay scattered beside him. Remembering He Yujing’s notoriously low alcohol tolerance, Chi Lianxi worried that if he kept drinking like this, he might genuinely lose his mind. He took the initiative to ask, “You didn’t explain clearly on the phone just now. Who doesn’t want you?”
“Who else could it be?” He Yujing reacted as if a keyword had been triggered. He paused, and when he uttered the name, it sounded as though he wanted to devour the person whole, skin and bones. “Jiang Liusui.”
Chi Lianxi: “……”
He had initially felt some sympathy for He Yujing, but now he completely understood Jiang Liusui.
If it were him, he wouldn’t dare take on a man who looked this much like a vengeful ghost[mfn]厉鬼 (lì guǐ) – lit. used humorously to describe someone whose aura is terrifying or emotionally unhinged[/mfn].
“…Wait, you seriously like him?” Coming back to his senses, Chi Lianxi was only surprised for a moment before quickly accepting it.
It was shocking—but also, somehow, not.
He Yujing’s attitude toward Jiang Liusui had always been too special. Chi Lianxi had already sensed it coming—now he was simply hearing the truth spoken aloud.
Chi Lianxi guessed, “You confessed to him?”
He Yujing nodded.
Chi Lianxi boldly continued guessing, “And you got rejected?”
“……” He Yujing remained silent, reaching for the bottle to pour himself another drink.
He Yujing didn’t even bother to retort. Chi Lianxi realized that his mood had sunk to an unprecedented low. He almost felt a twinge of pity. “Our Jing’er finally had his iron tree bloom[mfn]铁树开花 tiě shù kāi huā) – refers to something extremely rare finally happens[/mfn] for the first time, and you’ve already raced through the entire cycle of liking someone, confessing, and getting rejected?”
“Forgive me for asking, but did you confess in this ’if I can’t have you, I’ll drag you down with me’ state?” Chi Lianxi comforted him, “If that’s the case, it’s no wonder the kid rejected you.”
“Get lost.” He Yujing finally snapped, cursing at Chi Lianxi. “I used up a lifetime’s worth of gentleness on him.”
Seeing him finally acting somewhat normal again, Chi Lianxi breathed a sigh of relief. At least the man wasn’t beyond saving.
“So… do you really like him that much?” Chi Lianxi asked cautiously. “You haven’t known him for long, have you? Although I also think he’s cute… Hey, don’t glare at me! I don’t mean anything by it—just genuinely think he’s pretty good.”
“Are you sure it has to be him?”
He Yujing didn’t respond at once. His fingers tightened slowly around the stem of the wine glass.
His gaze lingered on the vividly colored wine, clear ice drifting lazily within it. After a moment, He Yujing spoke again, almost as if talking to himself: “You know… when Jiang Liusui was leaving, the door to the lounge was broken. He struggled with it for quite a while. In that moment, I really wanted to…”
Chi Lianxi was startled by the raw intensity in his words and instinctively asked: “You’re not planning to do anything illegal, right?”
He Yujing didn’t respond. Instead, he gave Chi Lianxi a slow, languid glance. His eyes were lighter than most, translucent like amber beneath the lights. Yet at this moment, they gave no sense of warmth. Instead, they were particularly unsettling, like the predatory gleam, the kind only large cats show when they’ve locked onto prey..
For some reasons, Chi Lianxi blurted out: “I’m just saying—forcing someone is against the law. So is locking them up. Don’t make a rash move and ruin your career—”
“Do I need to?” He Yujing actually let out a cold laugh, interrupting Chi Lianxi. “If I wanted to force him, I have plenty of ways to make him comply.”
Hearing him say something so terrifying, Chi Lianxi stared in stunned silence, all his previous sympathy for his friend vanishing instantly: “…You’re seriously a monster.”
But He Yujing suddenly deflated.
He took a large gulp of wine in irritation, then slammed the empty glass on the table, venting his frustration. “Do what—like hell I would. I’m just running my mouth.”
“If I actually did something, wouldn’t that make him hate me? Jiang Liusui already doesn’t like me…”
Admitting it aloud only made it even more painful. With the alcohol muddling his head, a dull ache throbbed at his temples. He pinched the bridge of his nose and finally said in defeat: “This is so damn annoying.”
Chi Lianxi watched He Yujing completely lose all composure and, for a second. silently mourned for his friend in his heart.
He took back what he’d said earlier.
This guy was already beyond saving.
***
The next day at Zhou Xun’s place, Jiang Liusui received news from the ⟪Eternal Bell⟫ production team.
He had passed the audition and secured the role of Ling, with the full script already sent to his agency. Normally, this would have been cause for celebration, but because of his unpleasant fallout with He Yujing the day before, Jiang Liusui wasn’t as happy as he’d expected.
Zhou Xun noticed his low spirits and asked if he wanted to stay a few more days. After some consideration, Jiang Liusui chose to return to his own home.
The script for ⟪Eternal Bell⟫ turned out to be longer than he had expected. Apparently, the screenwriters had noticed that the male lead’s role in the novel had been too lightly sketched, so the screenwriter had made corresponding revisions to make the male lead’s character more vivid.
Even so, the most eye-catching role in ⟪Eternal Bell⟫ was still Ling. On top of that, the script hadn’t been well-received in the industry, and even now, they hadn’t found a male lead who met Pei Wen’s approval.
Jiang Liusui returned home in low spirits. Jiang Liusui returned home in a gloomy mood. To keep his mind off things, he threw himself into the script, pouring all his energy into it, and not leaving the house for several days. It was only when he received Jiang Chuan’s call did he realize the first episode of ⟪Fantasy Holiday⟫ would air that night.
“⟪Fantasy Holiday⟫ has already aired. Remember to repost the production team’s Weibo post.” Jiang Chuan paused briefly before adding,“If you have time, you should watch it yourself, after all, it’s your first variety show.”
For the first time, Jiang Chuan fully grasped just how stubborn Jiang Liusui could be. Previously, he had hoped Jiang Liusui could take on both ⟪Eternal Bell⟫ and another TV drama simultaneously. But when he learned that Pei Wen forbade actors from overlapping projects and that the other show’s filming was still far off, Jiang Chuan sighed repeatedly. Handing over the script, he tried to persuade him again and again. When it became clear he couldn’t change Jiang Liusui’s mind, he finally gave up and let him go as he wished.
Jiang Chuan didn’t disturb him further. After a brief rundown of the tasks, he ended the call. In recent days, Jiang Liusui had been reviewing the complete script while continuously expanding the character profile he had initially created. He also watched many films of the same genre. Focusing for such a long time left Jiang Liusui somewhat fatigued, so he thought watching the variety show would be a good way to rest. Once off the phone, he grabbed his phone and headed to the living room.
Turning on the projector, he caught the show roughly halfway through. As he watched, he logged into his main Weibo account. Half an hour ago, the official ⟪Fantasy Holiday⟫ account had posted a sunrise-themed promotional poster.
『The first episode is officially out! Come and embark on a relaxing and romantic journey to Lingzhou Island!』
Scrolling through the repost section, Jiang Liusui saw Qin Yi, Xu Miao, Shang Qingzhi, and Mu Zhe… but notably absent was He Yujing. Shaking his head to suppress the chaotic thoughts, he simply reposted the program team’s Weibo.
No sooner had he reposted than Xu Miao’s messages began flooding in, each more enthusiastic than the last, sharing her reactions to the show.
Xu Miao: I’m watching the show! Hahahaha, I’m dying of laughter. No wonder you wanted to swap tasks that day—you’re scared of dogs!
Xu Miao: But you and Yu-ge… impressive, both of you aren’t afraid to speak your minds.
Xu Miao: Huh? Were you still in bed when Qin-ge got up? I thought you guys were the kind who jump out as soon as the alarm rings.
Xu Miao’s messages kept coming, one after another, her enjoyment of the show practically jumping off the screen. Jiang Liusui selectively replied to a few, but after sending them, he wondered if his responses were too cold. Unexpectedly, Xu Miao on the other end became even more energized upon receiving his replies and sent over a whole bunch more messages.
Jiang Liusui: “……”
Alright. He had to admit—he really admired people who could just keep chattering endlessly.
⟪Fantasy Holiday⟫ was visually stunning. Beyond the playful interactions between guests and the individual shots showcasing their charms, the production team had clearly gone all out to film the scenery, making viewers feel as if they were bathed in Lingzhou Island’s clear, brilliant sunlight.
He Yujing had joined the show to promote his new album, and the production team specifically used his new song as the BGM. During the walking the dog segment on the pink-sand beach, his clear, charming voice sang a light, upbeat tune, perfectly matched with the adorable Border Collie wagging its tail—a combination that effortlessly lifted viewers’ spirits.
Yet despite the show being so well put together, Jiang Liusui simply couldn’t focus. He watched as if completing a task and then retreated to his room to continue with his earlier work.
He was in a sour mood and largely ignored the world outside. He had no idea that ⟪Fantasy Holiday⟫ had immediately broken ratings records, that discussions across all major platforms were surging, or that related hashtags had shot straight to the top of trending searches, dominating the charts as soon as the episode ended.
Without a doubt, the most discussed topic was Jiang Liusui and He Yujing. Anyone who had earlier suspected the show of manipulative editing—or thought that Jiang Liusui was skilled enough to openly ride on He Yujing’s popularity for the first time in all these years—went completely silent after the episode aired. Even the most vocal fans, after seeing He Yujing’s attitude toward Jiang Liusui, could only lament on their personal pages:
【Yu-ge… you were the one taking the initiative the whole time. I can’t even bring myself to scold you!】
The live bullet comments were filled with tentative voices asking, “Can we ship them just a little?” But because He Yujing’s fans usually held such strong influence, the newly emerged CP fans didn’t dare to act too boldly just yet. Finally, a brave soul stepped forward:
【I once swore I’d only love Yu-ge in this lifetime, but after watching the show, I’m already teetering on the edge of shipping this CP. I don’t think I can be blamed—it’s him forcing me to ship them…】
This comment was like a stone thrown into still water, sending ripples through the like-minded fans who had been watching cautiously. Slowly, they began emerging from the sidelines:
【Forget malicious editing—I even suspect the show went easy on A’Jing to save him some face. Can someone tell me what exactly happened during the missing wake-up call segment?! I’m going crazy! I had already accepted him and Jiang Liusui, and then it just disappeared! My heart itches[mfn]好心痒 (hǎo xīn yǎng) – lit. colloquial expression meaning being impatient, eager, or frustrated[/mfn], so itchy! ⟪Fantasy Holiday⟫ what’s going on? What are you afraid of?! What’s wrong with showing a straightforward brotherly bond?! Give me back my content!!】
【I seriously want to ask the production team—what’s going on? When Qin Yi woke up Mu Zhe next door, you aired the whole thing! If this continues, I’ll have no choice but to start rumors that only real couples would hide things like this… that in those short ten-plus minutes, they not only hugged but also kissed! I can’t take it anymore! Any sisters able to generate more content[mfn]产粮 (chǎn liáng) – slang meaning provide material for fans to enjoy/shipping fodder; referring to fanworks[/mfn]?!】
【Damn it… what else is there to say? Having followed everything from walking the dog to room assignments, from watching the sunrise to the beach barbecue, what else is there to say?! Fine. I guess I’ll just wish these two a hundred years of happiness together!】
【Wahhh, who understands? Jiang Liusui didn’t want to walk the dog at first, but he agreed after hearing what Yu-ge said. Such a little thought changed just because of you—so wonderful!】
【Jiang Liusui is so good to Yu-ge too! He looks at his photos and gives such genuine praise. I really like this feeling of getting a response to everything.】
【So this is what Suisui is like in private… a guy like this actually exist? He’s even more spoiled[mfn]撒娇 (sā jiāo) – lit. scatter charm; behaving in a cute, coquettish, or playful way to get someone’s attention or get your way; common in fandom remarks[/mfn] than I am as a girl.】
【The sweetest part is that He Yujing totally falls for this! It’s like he’ll agree to anything Jiang Liusui says. Thinking about how He Yujing is usually so arrogant and acts like he bows to no one, I’m already shipping myself to life and death!】
【Am I the only one who noticed? Xu Miao’s and Qingzhi’s outfits look so good.】
【He Yujing really doesn’t need more praise—his styling is straight out of a textbook. The moment he shows up, it’s basically a magazine photoshoot.】
【So when is Boss He going to style our Suisui? We’re all one family here, no need to draw lines—just share the wardrobe already!】
Amid this atmosphere brimming with pink bubbles, someone brought up how they had run into Jiang Liusui at He Yujing’s first concert a few days prior, specifically emphasizing that he had been escorted to his seat by an assistant from backstage. The two girls sitting next to Jiang Liusui were too shy to take photos, but someone in the row behind who recognized him secretly snapped a picture.
Even though this side-profile photo was somewhat blurry, judging by his facial features, it was unmistakably him.
What could be chalked up to variety show antics was one thing—but seeing him at the concert was pure private life. This revelation immediately sent all the hesitant fans tumbling headfirst into the shipping pit.
After a night full of excitement, the newly emerged CP fans could barely resist popping champagne in celebration.
【What’s going on?! I won’t be able to sleep tonight—are they secretly dating?!】
【Has Chi Lianxi ever been backstage with Yu-ge? No way! I remember last year in a documentary, he said only family is allowed backstage at concerts???】
【Damn it, He Yujing, explain! How is Jiang Liusui suddenly your family? Don’t say ’younger brother,’ I don’t buy it. Don’t use that fancy, perfunctory excuse on me.】
【Let me be bold and say it first—they’re already married, he’s his wife.】
【Waaaaah, our Suisui! Mom no longer has to worry about you not getting good roles or being suppressed by the company. Marrying into a wealthy family at such a young age—I wouldn’t have dared to imagine this four years ago.】
Jiang Chuan’s call came just as Jiang Liusui finished reading the final chapter of the script.
In the original novel, Ling, with the help of others, broke free from the Soul-Binding Chain that had shackled him for centuries and left the Imperial City, disappearing into the world to live in seclusion. Perhaps to make it more dramatic, the screenwriter changed Ling’s ending, but this version better matched Ling’s passionate personality and carried more tension.
He was completely absorbed, lost in the pages, when his phone suddenly buzzed.
Glancing at the caller ID, he assumed Jiang Chuan was calling about work, and picked up.
Jiang Chuan cut straight to the point: “Have you watched the variety show yet?”
Jiang Liusui confirmed, and Jiang Chuan continued, “I just saw on Weibo that someone said you went to He Yujing’s first concert…”
Jiang Chuan spoke hesitantly, which struck Jiang Liusui as odd, but he still acknowledged it.
Jiang Chuan rambled on about various unrelated topics, including the intimate interactions between him and He Yujing on the show and the current online reactions. Hearing him mention the staggering number of new CP fans after the show aired, Jiang Liusui frowned, assuming Jiang Chuan was once again suggesting they ride the wave for publicity. Just as he was about to speak, Jiang Chuan finally said, “You and He Yujing … Are you really not involved?”
“What do you mean, ’involved’?” Jiang Liusui shot back.
“Well … I mean, if you’re dating, you should at least let me know.”
Already in a sour mood after his fallout with He Yujing these past few days, Jiang Liusui was further irritated by Jiang Chuan’s speculation. His tone turned cold: “Jiang-ge, you’re overthinking. I don’t have any relationship with him.”
But Jiang Chuan didn’t believe him and went on, “He Yujing’s behavior is too unusual. Fans on the outside might not understand—no matter how hard they ship, they’re still half in doubt… But I have some idea of the kind of person He Yujing is. Famous from a young age, still a young master at heart. How could he be so attentive to just an ordinary friend?”
“Tell me the truth—there’s no clear relationship between you, but he has feelings for you, right?”
“……” Jiang Liusui’s expression remained blank. “No.”
Jiang Chuan’s speculations about He Yujing only made Jiang Liusui more irritated. “Enough. What exactly are you trying to say?”
Having managed Jiang Liusui for so many years, Jiang Chuan understood him well. Hearing the sharpness in Jiang Liusui’s tone only confirmed his suspicions.
Jiang Chuan tentatively suggested, “So many people in the circle want to get close to He Yujing but can’t even touch him. If he’s interested in you, why don’t you… just be with him?”
Jiang Liusui was already flustered, and the comment hit a sensitive nerve. His voice turned ice-cold: “I already told you, there’s nothing between us. He’s not interested in me either.”
Jiang Liusui was usually quite gentle, so this was the first time he’d been so blunt. Realizing he’d gone too far, Jiang Chuan quickly backtracked: “Alright, alright! I won’t mention it anymore, don’t be angry! If it’s nothing then it’s nothing, let’s just drop this topic…”
“I actually just wanted to ask if there’s any possibility of you two dating, so the company can be informed in advance. I spent all night browsing Weibo, saw too many different messages, and accidentally let my mind run wild…” Jiang Chuan sounded very apologetic. “Just consider it nonsense. Don’t take it to heart.”
The agent kept apologizing on the other end of the line. Jiang Liusui didn’t want to say much, so he didn’t respond.
Jiang Liusui had noticed Jiang Chuan’s recent behavior. Although he didn’t say anything outwardly, inside he grew increasingly dissatisfied and began to make plans.
He pushed those thoughts aside for the moment, muttered a half-hearted response to Jiang Chuan, and hung up.
Jiang Liusui looked at the open script. After this interruption, he could no longer regain his earlier focus. Twirling the ballpoint pen beside him, he unconsciously drifted into thought.
When he said that He Yujing had no feelings for him, it wasn’t just to shut Jiang Chuan up—it was because he truly thought so.
When He Yujing had seen that he wouldn’t accept the confession, he’d proposed pursuing him instead, but Jiang Liusui hadn’t agreed to that either.
Having been rejected so decisively, and knowing He Yujing’s prideful nature… he’d probably already lost interest.
— — — —
