The foreign invaders have been repelled, and the entire nation celebrates.
In the solemn memorial service for the martyrs, everyone stops and observes a moment of silence facing the sky.
“We will forever remember this day, honoring the martyrs who sacrificed themselves in battle. It is because of their courage at the forefront that we have achieved victory today.” In the city being rebuilt, the broadcast echoes in the air, reaching every ear and touching the hearts of all.
With this, the official conclusion of the ‘Extraterrestrial Invasion’ has come.
“Congratulations, it’s over.” Chu Qianze spoke first, breaking the silence on the set.
“Everyone worked hard, really hard!” He Luo echoed, and the rest of the crew joined in, creating a lively atmosphere.
Looking at Shen Hezhi, who was staring blankly at the tomb in the set, Chu Qianze walked over and patted his shoulder. “What are you thinking? So absorbed.”
Shen Hezhi snapped out of it, holding the hand resting on his shoulder. “Nothing, just feel like these things are done quite realistically.”
“Oh, really?” Chu Qianze followed Shen Hezhi’s gaze, examining the small table nearby with a plaque engraved with his name and a badge symbolizing military achievements. “What’s so interesting about these things? Instead of looking at them, you might as well look at me when you have the time.”
With these words, the melancholy in Shen Hezhi’s heart dissipated. “You’re right, you’re much better looking than them.”
“Yeah, two eyes, a nose, and a mouth.” Chu Qianze leaned in, unable to resist laughing.
“What are you whispering about over there? Come over, let’s celebrate and give out red envelopes!” He Luo, seeing the two getting cozy, didn’t know what to say and felt a bit awkward. After all, they were still on set; they should be mindful of their image.
“Do we get red envelopes after this?” Chu Qianze raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised.
“Yeah, let’s go. We’ll join them.” Shen Hezhi pulled him towards the celebration.
“Xiao Chu, here’s your red envelope.” He Luo handed over a red paper packet. “We’ve had enough meals together for the gathering, and I’m too lazy to invite you again. So, I’m giving you cash directly. Spend it however you like.”
Chu Qianze took the red envelope and felt its weight. It was not light at all. “Thanks, Director He. You’re really straightforward.”
“That’s right, work with me, and you’ll definitely benefit!” He Luo’s words carried a certain implication, as he hadn’t given up on trying to get Chu Qianze to join him.
Seeing He Luo attempting to steer the conversation back to acting, Shen Hezhi held out his hand. “What about my red envelope?”
The previously harmonious atmosphere was interrupted, and He Luo couldn’t help but roll his eyes. “What’s the rush? Here’s yours!”
Taking the red envelope, Shen Hezhi directly placed it in his pocket. “Thanks, Director He.”
“Don’t mention it. Just don’t say anything,” He Luo shifted his gaze to Chu Qianze. “Xiao Chu, if you have any ideas, just give me a call.”
“Sure, thanks, Director He,” Chu Qianze replied.
After a few more exchanges and expressing their closing remarks, the film crew wrapped up, and everyone went their separate ways.
As Chu Qianze walked back, recalling He Luo’s decisive announcement of the end, he couldn’t help but find it amusing. “Director He really has a unique style, so straightforward.”
Shen Hezhi agreed with this, saying, “He does things swiftly and decisively.”
As they walked, Shen Hezhi casually asked, “What are your plans next?”
Chu Qianze thought for a moment, “Sleep and rest.”
“How about before that, you come with me somewhere?” Shen Hezhi took a couple of quick steps, reaching Chu Qianze and turning to face him.
“Sure, I’d be delighted,” Chu Qianze replied.
“Follow me.” Shen Hezhi took Chu Qianze’s hand, opened the car door, and pulled him into the car.
Chu Qianze was pushed into the seat, the seatbelt automatically fastening. Then came the sound of the engine starting, and the scenery swiftly retreating as the car backed up.
Glancing at the person beside him, Chu Qianze pondered for a moment but decided to stay silent, waiting for the other to reveal the mystery.
“Why aren’t you asking where we’re going?” Shen Hezhi took the initiative to speak.
“Well, where are you taking me?” Chu Qianze thought maybe he wasn’t supposed to ask.
“It’s a secret,” Shen Hezhi put his index finger to his lips, with a slightly mischievous expression. “You’ll find out when we get there.”
So, you won’t tell me even if I ask, huh? Chu Qianze responded with an “oh” and rested his chin on his hand, just watching Shen Hezhi.
Feeling the intensity of that gaze, Shen Hezhi almost spilled the beans but managed to muster his willpower built up over the years to keep it to himself.
“You really won’t tell?” Chu Qianze unexpectedly blurted out, blinking his eyes with a hint of anticipation.
Just as he was about to spill the secret, a broadcast announcement interrupted, stating that they had reached their destination, advising them to park carefully.
Shen Hezhi quickly sealed his lips, cleared his throat, and said, “We’re here. Let’s get out of the car.”
Watching the car door open, Chu Qianze glanced at Shen Hezhi, took a step out, and was greeted by a massive logo.
Shen Hezhi stepped out, allowing the car to automatically enter a parking space, and then led Chu Qianze outside.
Entering the building, the two took the elevator and arrived at a jewelry store.
“The ring I ordered earlier should be ready,” Shen Hezhi informed the staff.
“Please show your identification.” The staff requested.
Shen Hezhi opened his wallet, displayed his ID, and showed it to the staff.
“Please wait a moment.” The staff, after examining the identification, smiled and walked away. When they returned, they carried a tray with two delicately crafted boxes on top.
After placing the tray on the table, the staff left, giving the two some space.
Chu Qianze watched as Shen Hezhi picked up the boxes and opened them, placing them in front of himself.
“Do you want to wear this?” Shen Hezhi adjusted his tone to sound more natural.
“Feels like you beat me to it,” Chu Qianze sighed lightly, but a small smile involuntarily appeared on his lips as he extended his hand.
“Beat you to it?” Shen Hezhi realized something and unconsciously looked at Chu Qianze’s pocket, then quickly slid the ring onto Chu Qianze’s ring finger.
“I got there first.” You can’t take that away from me.
Understanding the implied message, Chu Qianze nodded with a hint of resignation. “Alright, I won’t take it.”
As he spoke, Chu Qianze opened the other box, taking out a ring and placing it on Shen Hezhi’s finger.
“How did you know my finger size?”
Shen Hezhi hesitated for a moment. “Measured it with my hands.”
No wonder he often held hands and liked staring at his own hands from time to time.
Chu Qianze reached into his pocket, pulled something out, and revealed a necklace.
Shen Hezhi took it and glanced at it. The pendant on it featured a badge design, a symbol of Chu Qianze’s honor, a unique and special design.
Suddenly, he recalled what Hu Jia used to say about proposing with a badge.
Something about a man’s romantic gesture… or something like that.
“The one from before, I have no idea where it went. So, I had the system replicate it based on my memory. It looks pretty close, though.” Chu Qianze casually explained as he put his hand back into his pocket.
“Next to those memorial stalls, they sell them for twenty yuan each, or two for thirty.” Shen Hezhi wore the necklace around his neck.
What?
Chu Qianze squinted his eyes.
“It’s said that wearing it brings good luck or something.” Shrugging, Shen Hezhi continued, “Just hearsay, but it’s for good fortune.”
“Well, it’s definitely not the same as mine.”
Chu Qianze was unconvinced. “Mine was carved based on memory, and I even did a detailed comparison to achieve a nearly authentic effect. Those street stalls’ goods can’t compete with…” Can they?
Before he could finish his sentence, Shen Hezhi sealed his words with a kiss, and the two became entwined in a passionate embrace.
After the kiss, Shen Hezhi’s fingers caressed the necklace, feeling affection for every detail.
“I’ll take good care of it,” he promised.
“You better, considering the effort I put into it.” Chu Qianze leaned on the nearby table, catching a glimpse of the sparkling ring on his finger.
“According to the plan, are we going on vacation next?” Chu Qianze suddenly understood the meaning behind the announcement on the large screen, suggesting that there might be a change of plans.
“Of course, I’d love to. There are many interesting places in this world, and we can explore together.” Shen Hezhi opened the holographic screen, navigating through various recommended tourist destinations.
“Have you been to all of these places?” Chu Qianze raised his eyes, expressing some curiosity.
“Some of them. Sometimes, to capture the feeling for acting, I travel to various places for a while,” Shen Hezhi explained.
“Alright then,” Chu Qianze expressed his understanding. “Let’s go explore somewhere else for now.”
“Little system, can you contact that large screen and inform it that I agree to take over?”
[That would be Master Mainframe.] The system corrected the terminology.
“Okay, please contact your Master Mainframe.” Chu Qianze adjusted his wording.
“Wait a minute,” Shen Hezhi grabbed Chu Qianze’s arm, his expression questioning. “What’s going on?”
“Taking you on a vacation,” Chu Qianze said, and as his words faded, the surroundings shifted into a virtual space, with the mainframe suspended on a mechanical frame.
“Hey, long time no see~” He waved as if greeting.
[Long time no see.]
[Congratulations on weathering the storm.] This was directed at Shen Hezhi.
Shen Hezhi maintained his composure, but his body tensed silently. “Thank you.”
[No need to be wary. According to calculations, cooperating with you will yield greater profits.]
“Quite straightforward conversation,” Chu Qianze chuckled, approaching the mainframe and giving the frame a light knock. “How’s it going? Are you getting used to it?”
[It’s a fascinating design.]
[Have you agreed to become my successor?]
“Yeah, after all, you’ve been quite helpful.” Chu Qianze rested his arm on Shen Hezhi’s shoulder, leaning on him. “You even provided mission prompts and such.”
[Those are subconscious products of Shen Hezhi. I merely materialized them into missions.]
Upon hearing this, Shen Hezhi’s eyes flickered momentarily, suddenly recalling something. He brushed his fingertips across the tip of his nose, appearing somewhat embarrassed.
[Some are wishes borrowed from the original owner’s identity, and some are Shen Hezhi’s wishes. Of course, the world also needs a complete emotional plotline, so it’s just going with the flow.]
“Let bygones be bygones; I don’t feel like dwelling on the past.” Chu Qianze raised his hand and tapped the holographic screen. “What do you want me to do?”
[Just sign on the contract.]
A scroll appeared in front of him, densely packed with various terms.
Chu Qianze glanced at his rights, obligations, and the responsibilities in case of breach, ensuring they were all within reasonable bounds. Not bothering with the rest, he handed it to Shen Hezhi. “How about it? Can you sign?”
Shen Hezhi took it and started reading from the first clause, surprisingly focusing on the content.
[It’s a crucial matter; I won’t set traps for you.] There was a hint of helplessness in the mainframe’s emotional fluctuations.
“I’ve been one of the people you’ve trapped.”
As Shen Hezhi spoke, he quickly skimmed through the contents and analyzed them in his mind.
[That was a little accident…] The tone of the mainframe weakened.
[Unexpected events are bound to happen]
“I’m a bit confused about this part.” Shen Hezhi pointed to a specific clause, raising his concerns.
[It can be changed.] The mainframe readily agreed.
As the two engaged in a serious discussion with the mainframe, Chu Qianze conjured a sofa and moved it next to Shen Hezhi. He then reclined on it, pulling Shen Hezhi into his embrace.
Shen Hezhi’s tone hesitated for a moment. He glanced at Chu Qianze but allowed him to proceed.
[…Any more questions?]
“Okay, okay, no more questions.” Chu Qianze wrote down his name and pressed his fingerprint. “According to what’s written here, I can bring him along, right?”
[Yes.]
“Congratulations, now you can retire and have a blast.” Chu Qianze commented directly, looking at the contract stamped on his wrist.
[Congratulations.]
With the removal of this heavy burden, the mainframe suddenly felt a sense of relief, as if it had completed a data cleaning. [Wishing you a happy honeymoon.]
Then it disappeared in an instant.
Chu Qianze lifted his finger slightly, and windows appeared in the air—one for each world. “Where do you want to go?”
After glancing at the ancient world and then the Western fantasy world, Shen Hezhi, for once, found himself in a dilemma.
“Let’s leave it to chance,” Chu Qianze suggested.
As the windows appeared before them, Chu Qianze looked to Shen Hezhi for his opinion.
Shen Hezhi nodded, indicating that it was okay.
“Alright, let’s go.” Standing up leisurely, Chu Qianze extended his hand to Shen Hezhi, his eyes softening with a hint of tenderness.
—END
And another novel completed!! Thank you so much for being with Chu Qianze and Shen Hezhi in their journey together! Hope you enjoyed reading it~!!
