After completing a round of training, Dou Xi couldn’t hold back any longer and picked up his belongings.
“I’m leaving first, Brother Chu, Brother Jinghe, you guys should rest early too,” he said, bidding the two goodnight.
“Sure, bye~” Chu Qianze waved at him as he closed the door.
Seeing Dou Xi leave, Chu Qianze sat cross-legged in the lounge, watching as Rong Jinghe continued to practice tirelessly. He couldn’t help but express some helplessness in his tone, “Aren’t you planning to go back yet?”
After completing this set of movements, Rong Jinghe stood upright again. “Wait a bit longer. I feel I can become more proficient. Until I’ve ingrained it into muscle memory, I can’t confidently step onto the stage.”
He rarely engaged with songs that had such a distinct emotional style, and he wasn’t at an advantage in terms of familiarity. Moreover, the entire musical style differed significantly from his personality. Learning the song was simple, but mastering it was quite challenging.
Rong Jinghe understood that singing wasn’t a problem for him, but dancing was a bit lacking, especially in terms of expressiveness. If he were performing alone, it might not be a significant issue. However, this dance involved Chu Qianze as a counterpart. Performing together, it was easy for the audience to make comparisons, easily discerning who was stronger or weaker.
“If you’re tired, go back and rest. It’s not early now,” he said, walking over to the player, preparing to practice the dance again.
“What about the duet part? How are you planning to handle that?” Chu Qianze asked.
“I’ll practice it on my own,” Rong Jinghe said, pressing the play button for the music.
Just as he finished saying that, Chu Qianze walked over and turned off the music.
Furrowing his brows slightly, Rong Jinghe looked at him, “What are you doing?”
Chu Qianze rewound the music to the beginning, “After all, there’s a duet section. How can you practice it alone?”
“Let’s do it together, until you’re satisfied,” he suggested.
Saying this, he pressed the delayed play button and walked over to the mirror, looking at his handsome reflection while quietly yawning.
“Hurry up, what are you standing there for? The sooner we finish practicing, the sooner we can go to bed. Don’t tell me you’re planning an all-nighter?” Chu Qianze urged.
Rong Jinghe walked over, standing beside him, “Thank you.”
“No big deal,” Chu Qianze replied casually. “Let’s get started then.”
As the music began, they instantly adjusted their movements and expressions, starting with the first beat.
Inside the practice room, the music enveloped them. Their gazes locked, shadows intertwining, ties wrapping around as they tested each other, advancing step by step.
Outside the practice room, silence prevailed, yet it seemed like something was slowly brewing. On the day of the performance, the audience seats were fully occupied, and the live chat was flooded with comments. On the stage, trainees poured sweat, showcasing their best selves to the audience.
In the backstage rest area.
At this moment, everyone was scattered in different corners. Those who could sing were singing, those who could dance were dancing, and those who could make funny faces were making funny faces. Some were crafting stories. Through their individual efforts, they were trying to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the song “Pretend Gentleman.”
Rong Jinghe glanced back at the people behind him before turning his attention away.
“What’s wrong?” Chu Qianze noticed the hesitation in Rong Jinghe and asked, tilting his head.
“Let’s start warming up; we’re pretty early in the lineup,” Rong Jinghe stood up, bending to stretch.
“Sure, should we go through the dance one more time?”
As he stretched his wrist joints and didn’t hear a response, Chu Qianze became a bit puzzled.
Glancing at the person beside him, who seemed lost in thought, Rong Jinghe snapped his fingers in front of him, “What are you thinking about?”
This person had been acting strangely since the rehearsal ended last night. Could it be that the training has driven him a bit crazy?
“Hmm?” Rong Jinghe responded, “Sure, let’s practice it again later.”
As he replied, he went into a split, grabbing his toes, stretching with determination.
Rong Jinghe also wasn’t quite sure about his own situation. Perhaps he had become too absorbed in practicing the dance, or maybe Chu Qianze’s infectious energy during the dance was just too strong. Whenever he looked at the other person now, he felt a strange sensation in his heart, and he even found it a bit awkward to make eye contact.
While rehearsing together, Chu Qianze himself was constantly adjusting his state.
During the final rehearsal last night, when the other person gazed at him with such affection, Rong Jinghe really felt himself getting lost in the moment, utterly defenseless. The image lingered in his mind even after returning home, and he even dreamt about it at night, which made him feel quite uneasy.
Acting has the concept of getting into the role, but could the same apply to dancing?
Perhaps this was a bit far-fetched.
Rong Jinghe closed his eyes, trying to rid himself of those distracting thoughts. The most crucial thing now was the upcoming performance; they absolutely had to deliver an unforgettable show. They couldn’t afford to mess it up.
Standing up, he had reverted to his usual self. “When you’re ready to warm up, let’s practice again.”
“No problem,” Chu Qianze replied.
Dian Xuan entered the room, holding the glow stick they had received upon entering.
Indeed, after watching several episodes of “Trainees to Debut,” she had come to see the live performance!
Although she herself isn’t a fan of celebrities, she couldn’t help but wonder what these people were like in person at the live event. Dian Xuan had just entered the venue and was surprised by the distinct separation of two lines formed by fans. What’s going on?
Upon closer inspection, she nodded… it seemed to be Rong Jinghe’s fans.
Looking at the other side, they were Chu Qianze’s fans.
Weren’t the main idols getting along well? What’s the deal with these two fanbase, making it seem like they were enemies? Is everything okay?
Dian Xuan found it amusing but didn’t say anything. Instead, she located her seat. It was a seat she had managed to buy with great effort—excellent visibility, providing a clear view of the stage, and therefore, it came with a hefty price tag.
She shed a tear for her hard-earned money in her heart for a moment and sat in her seat, placing her belongings beside her.
Once the show began, she abandoned everything else and wholeheartedly enjoyed the performances these people brought.
By the end of the event, she only understood one thing: the live experience was indeed immersive and very, very real. Also, these kids were exceptionally good-looking, with impressive visuals.
Dian Xuan glanced at the program list, and it seemed that Chu Qianze’s and Rong Jinghe’s team was scheduled for the middle of the show. From the looks of it, she had to wait a bit longer.
Personally, she considered herself a casual fan of Chu Qianze and Rong Jinghe, and Dou Xi wasn’t bad either. Many participants in the show were impressive, and the program was quite motivational and inspiring.
Dian Xuan had bought tickets this time to attend the live event to witness these kids’ performances and experience the most genuine and unfiltered moments. “Pretend Gentleman” was, without a doubt, the program she was most looking forward to.
She believed many people in the audience felt the same way.
The two-time champion Rong Jinghe, paired with the dark horse Chu Qianze, would undoubtedly create sparks, making it an excellent highlight and talking point. Who knew that when she got the list, she felt like she had won the lottery, encountering such a rare and exciting opportunity.
Finally, the host announced the program “Pretend Gentleman”!
As soon as the name was mentioned, the venue erupted in excitement. Chu Qianze was in the second group, and this was the first group of trainees. With the familiar music playing, they began their performance on stage.
Dian Xuan watched, and as the performance unfolded, she couldn’t help but cover her cheeks. This song, indeed, exuded a lot of charm.
The temptation beneath the guise of a gentleman, the juxtaposition of restraint and desire—these two contrasting elements created a strong impact, and it was truly exquisite.
Especially… there’s even a segment of a duet?
This, this, this. I wonder who those two will be dancing with.
The performance concluded, and the host took the stage.
“I wonder if everyone enjoyed ‘Pretend Gentleman’? Don’t worry if you didn’t get enough; there’s another group coming up. For those who’ve been keeping an eye on the program list, you should know that the next group of participants is truly remarkable, each one is a powerhouse, each one an elite.”
As the host continued to speak enthusiastically, some people couldn’t help but feel impatient.
The audience in the venue, mindful of their public appearance, might restrain themselves a bit, but online, people had no such qualms. The barrage of comments kept flooding in, forcing people to adjust their screen transparency to the lowest level.
[We don’t want to see you, go down quickly!]
[Let the second group come up, we all know who they are!]
[Hurry up, speed it up!]
[Brother Chu, Brother Chu, Brother Chu!]
[Rong Jinghe, Mom loves you!]
…
The director, watching the steadily rising viewership, sat back comfortably with his legs crossed, flipping his slippers in a satisfied and boastful manner.
Seeing that it was almost enough, dragging it on further wouldn’t be a good idea. The director opened his mic and said, “That’s enough, let the second group come up.”
Hearing the director’s instructions through the earpiece, the host secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Without further delay, he announced, “Now, please welcome the second group, presenting to us ‘Pretend Gentleman’!”
[Oh my, it’s finally over.]
[To be honest, I think the host’s stand-up comedy is quite entertaining? Hahaha, of course, I’m even more excited for everyone’s performances.]
Amidst the cheers, the lights dimmed, and the eight people stepped onto the stage.
The delicate and mellow prelude began, accompanied by drumbeats, inexplicably catchy.
The lights came on, illuminating the left half of the stage.
On the left side, four individuals were dressed in black suits, ties hanging vertically beneath, shiny leather shoes, presenting an overall handsome and restrained appearance.
Chu Qianze, in contrast, wore a low-cut tank top underneath the formal suit, creating a distinct contrast. Gold-rimmed glasses rested on his nose, typically a symbol of an elite, yet at this moment, they exuded a somewhat rogue charm.
Adjusting the cuffs of his pants meticulously, moving slowly and steadily, his body swayed with the rhythm of the music. Lifting his shoulders, he took a step to the side.
Thump, thump, thump, he tapped to the beat, unhurriedly unfolding the story.
[Nightclub, I was dragged here by a friend. The clamorous atmosphere around made me uneasy, the music was almost noise pollution. I rubbed my ears, feeling extremely impatient. But I didn’t say anything; I just picked up the tall glass beside me and took a sip carefully.
I didn’t say anything. Why?
Because I am a gentleman, a gentleman with proper manners.
Even though I know, deep down, I’m extremely vulgar, just draped in the veneer of a gentleman.
But what does it matter, my friend?
Everyone thinks I am a gentleman.
A well-mannered, politely elegant gentleman.]
Chu Qianze raised a smirk, a smile that seemed mocking and sarcastic. He lifted his hand to cover his cheeks, concealing the smile beneath.
His index finger rested on his brow, while the thumb and middle finger landed on either side of his face. His eyes peered through the gap between his fingers, and the mockery in those eyes was not something a gentleman should possess.
[Oh, that’s truly impolite of me. How could I be so undignified? This really shouldn’t have happened.]
Chu Qianze raised his hand, grabbing the hand that had covered his face, fingers tapping, his body swaying with the music.
It was a short finger dance, exceptionally nimble.
He kicked the toe towards the heel of the other foot, turning his back to the stage.
The lights faded, and the stage went dark.
Snap, the stage on the right was illuminated.
[A gentleman, in boredom, catches sight of a distinguished lady. She sits beside the bar, her back elegant and dignified, every strand of hair hitting the right note of his excitement.]
[I want to possess her. The vulgar gentleman thinks.]
[I fixate on that woman, watching as she orders a Bloody Mary. Someone approaches to strike up a conversation, and I watch her reject the man’s advances. Slowly, I contemplate how, without leaving a trace, I can have this lady.]
[After setting up numerous traps, I choose to make a move. I approach the lady, casually greeting her.]
[Slowly, methodically, the plan unfolds.]
The lights came on, and the eight individuals paired off.
The confrontation began.
Chu Qianze walked up to Rong Jinghe, raising a sardonic smile, adjusting his tie, and bowing in a gentlemanly manner.
Rong Jinghe used the back of his hand to push him away, attempting to pull up the other’s tie but was skillfully evaded. Unwilling to accept defeat, Rong Jinghe’s lips curled slightly, the corners of his eyes lifting as he raised his hand and hooked his index finger.
“Hiss—” Dian Xuan took in a sharp breath.
What are they doing? What do they want to achieve?
Are they starting to flirt directly?!
I don’t want to think the wrong way!
The two brushed past each other, but one of them grabbed the other’s tie. Under the mutual force, they encountered each other again.
Every step was a scheme, every move was a lure.
Neither gave in, each pretending to be the prey, using themselves as bait to lure the other.
[In my mind, all I see are your captivating lips.]
[In my mind, all I see is your enchanting gaze.]
[In my mind, all I see are your tender emotions.]
Chu Qianze lowered his gaze, looking at the person in front of him, emotions slowly unfolding in his eyes.
Rong Jinghe stared at the other, his love intense and sincere.
Chu Qianze lightly embraced him from behind, and the two danced closely together.
At the edge of the stage, a mechanism appeared, a device for releasing fireworks.
Noticing this change, Rong Jinghe paused for a moment.
According to the previous rehearsals, the fireworks should have appeared a bit later. The timing now is quite unfortunate because later, Rong Jinghe needs to stay in place to dance, and he… at the moment is within the range of the fireworks.
If he avoids it now, the stage effect will be significantly compromised, and the entire performance might even fall apart. When Rong Jinghe hesitated, the mechanism had already started, and the fireworks splashed around.
No need to dwell on it, there’s no way to avoid it.
Rong Jinghe continued his dance moves. During this time, the tone of his singing didn’t change, and his gaze remained immersed in the song, despite the fireworks surrounding him.
At most, it would be a minor burn.
Watching the fireworks getting closer and closer, the frequency of Rong Jinghe’s blinking increased, and his heart skipped a beat. Although he had mentally prepared for it in advance, when it came to this moment, he still felt nervous.
“I’m not a pretentious gentleman.”
Chu Qianze murmured, taking a step forward, directly turning from behind to stand in front of Rong Jinghe. He embraced him and made a playful move, and as he made contact with Rong Jinghe’s startled gaze, he blinked.
“I’m not a pretentious gentleman, baby.”
He unbuttoned the suit button, directly pulled open the jacket, creating a barrier against the fireworks. His fingertips touched Rong Jinghe’s earlobe, bringing him back to reality. Chu Qianze spoke silently, “It’s your turn.”
Rong Jinghe pursed his lips, pulled the tie, and smoothly delivered the next line.
The audience below erupted in cheers.
On the stage, amidst the dazzling fireworks, the two men were extremely close.
Chu Qianze glanced sideways at the camera, while Rong Jinghe, at this moment, had his eyes filled with him.
The fireworks vanished, and the two separated, returning to their original formation.
The pace quickened.
Ties were removed, and Chu Qianze swung it over his wrist, twisting his waist, thrusting his hips.
Lifting his arm, making a fist, leaning forward with his upper body, he exerted force from his waist, creating a rhythmic movement.
The tie brushed across his lips, and he took a step diagonally, slowly curling a smile.
He turned his body sideways, raised his hand, and moved his fingers slightly.
Bang.
[The prey is hooked.]
The music ended.
The performers lined up, bowing to the audience.
[Was the fireworks just now part of the show’s effects? It felt dangerous; it could have landed directly on the performers. (Though it was beautiful)]
[It’s killing me. This dance is killing me. Definitely a top moment in my heart.]
[Ah, this live performance is too explosive. Their expressions are all so dramatic! I can’t handle it; I’m losing my mind!]
[When the sparks appeared, Brother Chu directly shielded the other behind him. Oh my, I, I, I, sisters, let’s meet at the usual place!]
[That last shot, the look in Brother Jinghe’s eyes! Too explicit. Sisters, see you at our secret spot!]
The host took the stage, following the procedure for the voting competition between the two teams.
The group with Chu Qianze and Rong Jinghe secured a resounding victory with an overwhelmingly high number of votes.
Originally, it was a competition to surpass the rival, but it turned into a brief alliance.
Fans from both sides: mixed emotions.jpg
Amid the cheers of the audience, everyone returned to the stage together.
“What just happened? Did the fireworks malfunction? We need to give feedback to the staff later.”
Hong mumbled, looking at the two beside him. “It was really dangerous back there. Fortunately, Brother Chu, you reacted quickly; otherwise, who knows what would have happened.”
“Yeah, our position was quite safe, but your situation, Brother Jinghe, was too dangerous! When I saw that, I was sweating buckets.” Ye Lunguo visibly shivered, then asked with a slight delay, “Is everyone okay? Any injuries?”
“No, it’s not that easy to get injured.” Chu Qianze adjusted his collar, supporting the back of his neck lazily.
“That’s good. And Brother Jinghe?” Ye Lunguo asked.
Rong Jinghe shook his head, indicating that he was fine.
“Finally, it’s over. I’m going to get a good night’s sleep when I get back.” Chu Qianze walked ahead, feeling drowsy.
“What are you guys planning to do later? Any plans?” Turning around to ask the others, Chu Qianze noticed Rong Jinghe staring at him, his face serious.
Chu Qianze was taken aback for a moment and chuckled, “Oh, don’t tell me you’ve fallen for me. How embarrassing.”
Without arguing, Rong Jinghe reached towards the back of Chu Qianze’s neck, saying, “Let me see your neck.”
“There’s nothing worth seeing.” Chu Qianze moved to the side.
With narrowed eyes, Rong Jinghe stared at him, looking determined to get what he wanted.
After being stared at for a while, Chu Qianze sighed and lowered his hand, saying, “Can’t you just look? Don’t stare at me like that, it’s intimidating.”
Rong Jinghe went behind Chu Qianze, pulled down his collar, revealing red skin on the neck as if he got burned.
“Have you seen it? It’s quite uncomfortable,” Chu Qianze’s tone was somewhat low.
“…You go back to the dressing room first; I’ll go to the program team to get some medicine,” said Rong Jinghe, quickly disappearing from the sight of the crowd.
“Medicine? Brother Chu, what happened to your neck?” Ye Lunguo understood and became extremely worried, wanting to come over and take a look.
“Forget it; there’s nothing interesting to see. It’s just that I had an intimate encounter with the fireworks during the performance,” Chu Qianze sighed, feeling somewhat helpless.
“Did you get burned?!” Hong hurried over, carefully examining Chu Qianze’s neck.
“Why didn’t you mention this earlier? I was just wondering why Jing ge reacted so strongly.”
Upon hearing this, Dou Xi couldn’t stand still and quickly ran outside, saying, “I’ll go buy popsicles. I’ll apply them for you later.”
“Why did you get burned? What should we do? Should we use cold water?” Hong scratched his head, trying to remember.
“No need to go through so much trouble…” Chu Qianze began to speak, trying to stop them, but he was stared at by several people.
“You shut up!”
Alright.
Chu Qianze raised his hand in surrender.
Knew it would be like this… that’s why he didn’t want to say anything, sigh.
Muttering to himself, Chu Qianze chuckled softly and kicked at the air playfully.
Lounging on the couch in the dressing room, Chu Qianze felt the urge to scratch his head.
Hong: “Brother Chu, the doctor hasn’t come yet. I wonder how it will turn out. The idol’s skin is important; don’t mess around.”
…OK.
With his hand raised in the air, Chu Qianze brought it back down.
He attempted to lean back in the chair.
Ye Lunguo: “Brother Chu, this chair has been used by who knows how many people. There must be a lot of bacteria and germs. Don’t touch it, what if the wound gets infected?”
“It’s not that delicate. Just got a little burn accidentally.”
Chu Qianze was speechless. Seeing everyone persistently staring at him, he sighed and said, “Can’t I sit up straight?”
At this moment, Rong Jinghe led the doctor over.
“The fireworks suddenly appeared on the stage, and his neck was burned. Can you help take a look?” Rong Jinghe explained.
After noting down the instructions, urging him to take the medicine, Rong Jinghe finally relaxed a little.
Looking at the bandage on the other’s neck, a sense of guilt surged in his heart, almost overwhelming him.
“About the fireworks, don’t worry. I will communicate with the program team to clarify the situation.” Rong Jinghe folded the paper and put it in his pocket.
Finally leaning back on the sofa, Chu Qianze made a sound of acknowledgment and casually rubbed his hair.
“As for your injury… I’ll take responsibility for it,” he said, looking at Chu Qianze with a serious expression.
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