Chen stood still for a brief moment after Si Ran's bold confession, allowing the noise around him to settle. The crowd, the whispers, the tension—it all pressed in, but his expression slowly returned to its usual calm. When he finally spoke, his tone was gentle yet firm.
"Si Ran, let's go inside to talk."
Those simple words felt like a lifeline.
Si Ran's face lit up instantly, as if he had already interpreted this as a positive sign. He hurried to follow behind Chen, almost bouncing with nervous excitement. Around them, the gathered students began dispersing quickly now that the "show" was over, leaving—most of them had already gathered online, fingers flying rapidly across their phones as the university forum exploded with gossip.
Chen walked ahead quietly, his thoughts heavier than his steps. Si Ran… the director's son. A faint headache began to form. My job might really be on the line today.
Chen rubbed his temples lightly, trying to ease the growing headache.
