TCFGBH Chapter 39

Online, the acceptance of the Tu-Xia couple is very high. Even though Xia Yan often acts erratically and says nonsensical things, people view him with a tolerant attitude.

#MyIdiotWifeLeftHisBrainAtHomeAgain#

So when Xia Yan’s considerate side appeared on the variety show, everyone was stunned. The audience showered him with praise as if he had done something extraordinary.

The world is strange like that.

When a good person does something bad, they are seen as less good. But when a bad person does something good, they are seen as less bad.

Currently, Xia Yan’s popularity, influence, and reputation are soaring.

Conversely, Tu Xi’s previously flawless image now has blemishes. The label of “love-struck” sticks to him, and some fans, unable to accept it, loudly unfollow and criticize him.

However, there are still many fans who support the couple.

Time passed quickly, and it was soon time for the filming of Heartbeat.

The group gathered again at the Love Island villa, and everyone greeted the live camera with composure. The new guest was a sweet, shy girl with a kind, gentle personality who avoided conflict.

Without the provocative Fang Xihua, the show was much more peaceful.

The director, no longer daring to cause trouble, just wanted to finish the remaining three days of filming smoothly, edit the remaining footage, and quickly air the next episode.

Love Island was a beautiful place, perfect for a relaxing vacation.

Occasionally, the director would assign exclusive tasks for couples to complete, with a cash prize for those who succeeded. With some money saved up, everyone was now financially comfortable, happily enjoying food and drinks.

However, on the last day of filming…

The director made a grand announcement, requiring each couple to use their saved-up funds to buy a gift that would satisfy their partner.

Everyone was stunned.

Xia Yan calculated in his mind: “How much money do we have left?”

“520¹520 meaning i love you in chinese slang lol basically Tu Xi just said ily to Xia Yan.”

“…Be clear.”

Tu Xi, looking innocent, said, “Oh, we have 520 RMB left.”

“Let’s split it. 260 each.” Xia Yan lifted his eyelids, casually taking 20 from the money Tu Xi pulled out, his lips curving into a sly smile. “But I only need 20; the remaining 500, you pick out a gift for me.”

After a pause, he said confidently, “No matter what I give you, you’ll be satisfied, right?”

Tu Xi was momentarily taken aback and then laughed. “Right.”

Xia Yan nodded in satisfaction.

The black camera lenses focused on the two, the breeze gently blowing their hair, giving a lively and elegant impression. The live-stream viewers were excited.

【Shipping this so hard.】

【Wife is so clever. Tu Xi gets more money, and the gift is for himself—what a steal.】

【After everything, you two should really cherish each other! I can live without a partner, but the couple I ship must have a happy ending.】

【Uh… I still don’t really ship them. Tu Xi is too soft, and can’t keep up with Xia Yan. It feels like Xia Yan might dump him at any moment.】

【Those who don’t know how to speak can stay quiet. Thanks.】

…

The live chat became lively again.

After parting with Tu Xi, Xia Yan wandered alone on the island. Due to its remote location, many supplies needed to be transported by ferry, making the cost of living high, comparable to first-tier cities.

What could 20 yuan buy?

Two coconuts, one for each person.

Too uninspired.

As a scumbag, he needed to be exceptional at charming people.

Xia Yan walked a bit more, his eyes casually drifting, finally settling on a vintage café at the corner of the street. He noticed a piano on the stage through the deliberately aged glass.

After hesitating for a moment, he pushed the door open and entered.

“Hello, welcome.” The host greeted him warmly, momentarily stunned by Xia Yan’s appearance.

Knowing he only had 20 yuan and couldn’t afford the high-end café, Xia Yan was undeterred. He said with composure, “May I speak with your boss? I have something to discuss.”

The host recognized Xia Yan and, not wanting to refuse, quickly went to find the owner after informing a colleague.

The café owner was a woman in her fifties, wearing a grey dress with her hair pulled up. Her face bore time marks, but she had a serene and kind demeanor.

“Hello, Mr. Xia Yan.”

Xia Yan greeted her politely and pointed to the piano. “I have an important date tonight. May I borrow your piano?”

“Is it with Mr. Tu?”

“Yes.”

The owner replied, “I’d be happy to, but since there are other guests in the café, I need to hear your performance first before making a decision.”

With Xia Yan’s high profile, his past had been thoroughly investigated.

He had started working right after high school, a blemish on his record.

The owner decided that she would agree as long as Xia Yan’s performance was pleasant and not jarring. After all, the publicity from having such a high-profile figure play for free was too good to pass up.

While autumn had arrived in the capital city, Love Island was still quite hot due to its southern location. Xia Yan was dressed in a white shirt and jeans, looking like the most popular senior in school.

He sat at the piano, arranged his posture, and straightened his back like a tall pine tree.

Memories from his past life flowed continuously.

After a year of integration, this body had fully merged with his soul, with appearance, height, and finger length nearly identical.

His body instinctively played the subsequent notes as he pressed the first key.

— Für Elise.

A piece for a lover.

The music was joyful, tender, and peaceful, flowing into people’s hearts like a gentle spring stream, starkly contrasting his usual arrogance.

【My wife can play the piano, I’m shocked.】

【So beautiful, Tu Xi is lucky. Let’s crowdsource to eliminate him and take his place. Manual dog head】

【Such a gentle melody.】

…

The café was divided into two levels. Some curious guests came out to listen after hearing the music. After just a brief listen, they couldn’t look away.

Xia Yan’s skills could not be compared to those of top masters.

But combined with his looks, charm, and the music, it was like a masterpiece meticulously crafted by the hand of God, creating a top-notch experience.

As the piece ended, applause erupted.

“You played wonderfully,” the owner said with a smile, applauding. “As long as you need the piano, the doors of my café are always open to you.”

Xia Yan responded, “Thank you.”

He discussed the time with the café owner and asked her to reserve the best viewing spot for them. The owner readily agreed and even offered them coffee and snacks, which was a delightful surprise.

With the location, gifts, and time all confirmed, Xia Yan returned to the villa since there was still some time left. He changed into a black suit sponsored by Beaufort, but after looking at himself, felt it was a bit too dull. He added a pink rose pin, which brightened up the whole look.

After tidying up his hair, Xia Yan set off with confidence.

His appearance was already exceptional, and with his meticulous dressing, he attracted even more attention. Men and women on the street were glancing at him.

After searching for a while, Xia Yan finally found a flower stall.

He crouched down and asked, “Do you have flowers for 20 yuan?”

“Yes,” replied the young girl at the stall, who seemed very excited to see Xia Yan. “Everything is 20 yuan; you can pick whatever you like. Could you give me an autograph? I’m your fan.”

The stall had a limited selection of flowers, mostly roses.

The girl was skillful and wrapped the flowers beautifully.

When calculating the prices, some definitely cost more than 20 yuan.

Xia Yan did not refuse the girl’s kindness. After signing, he hesitated among the various roses. Red roses were too passionate and might seem awkward. Yellow and white roses were too light and didn’t fit their couple status.

After some deliberation, he chose a bouquet of pink roses.

“Pink roses?” the girl asked.

“Yes.”

“Okay, I’ll wrap them up for you.” The girl swiftly selected the most beautiful bouquet and even added an LED light. “It’s getting dark, and with the light, it will look even more beautiful.”

The yellow light illuminated the pink roses, creating a dreamy aura.

Xia Yan took the bouquet and thanked her.

As he turned to leave, he thought he heard the girl’s excited voice: “Pink roses… first love, so pure. I want to stab Tu Xi…”

?

Xia Yan, puzzled, looked back. The girl was sitting upright with a perfectly obedient expression.

Had he heard wrong?

Unfamiliar with flower language, Xia Yan left with a head full of questions.

–

Due to the popularity of the first episode of  Heartbeat, many tourists had arrived on the island, and most people knew the show’s guests.

Xia Yan was undoubtedly the most popular among them.

When he went out for filming, people often stole glances at him, but now, dressed up with a bouquet of roses, even more people were observing him.

Those in the know were already aware that Xia Yan was going to perform at the café tonight and had arrived early to claim seats.

As night fell and the streetlights came on, Xia Yan arrived at the café. Except for his reserved spot, the rest of the café was fully occupied. He paused momentarily and then nonchalantly held the bouquet of roses in his arms, sitting down and waiting for Tu Xi.

They had agreed to meet at the café at eight.

Xia Yan arrived early, but fortunately, Tu Xi didn’t keep him waiting long. Around 7:30, Tu Xi arrived at the café. Seeing Xia Yan already there, he apologized, “Sorry, I’m late.”

“It’s okay. I came early.”

After Tu Xi took his seat, the attentive waiter brought coffee and snacks. The lights overhead dimmed, and warm yellow lights created an enchanting and ambiguous atmosphere.

The surrounding guests fell silent, leaving the space for the couple.

It was evident that a lot of effort had been put into this.

Tu Xi’s smile deepened as he took out a black velvet box from his pocket, his fingers covered with bandages, and carefully handed it to Xia Yan.

“I made this by hand. I hope you like it.”

Xia Yan opened the box.

Inside were a pair of simple silver rings, with “T X” clumsily engraved inside and an ugly heart between the two letters.

Xia Yan stared at them quietly.

Tu Xi, feeling nervous, asked, “Sorry, my craftsmanship only reached this level. Do you… not like it?”

“It’s not that, but…”

“?”

“Why is my initial at the end?” Xia Yan tilted his head in confusion. Normally, it should be first, right?

Tu Xi avoided Xia Yan’s curious gaze and said calmly, “I think it’s the same.”

“Mr. Xia Yan, would you be willing to wear this ring and be with me forever?” Tu Xi changed the subject.

Forever?

Xia Yan thought about his task, feeling a bit conflicted. He would eventually leave this world. He felt some affection for Tu Xi, after all, he was the person who loved him the most after his parents.

He hesitated, unsure of what to do.

Observing his indecisiveness, the system whispered: [Host, treat it as a temporary relationship. After all, Tu Xi is handsome and treats you well. The protagonist shou is very vulnerable, and if you reject him, it could lead to heartbreak and negatively impact his career.]

The original plot was like this; the protagonist shou was depressed after being deceived by the scumbag, and only recovered after the protagonist gong’s guidance.

Now the plot had deviated drastically, with the protagonist gong nowhere to be seen.

If the protagonist shou didn’t recover…

Click! The Film Emperor would be gone, and the world would be ruined.

As Xia Yan remained silent, Tu Xi’s eyes grew dimmer, and the lively chat slowed down, as if embarrassed to disturb the crucial moment between the couple.

Xia Yan sighed inwardly, took out one of the rings, and decisively put it on Tu Xi’s ring finger.

“I don’t like to say forever; it feels too superficial.” Xia Yan propped his chin with one hand, lazily smiling and nonchalantly said, “I can only say that we’ll be together this year. That’s the biggest promise I can make. Can you accept that?”

It was already late September, and only three months were left this year.

It was a rather sad statement, but Tu Xi smiled. He touched the smooth surface of the ring and said, “Okay.”

…

【Wife is up to tricks again.】

【Clueless wife, can’t you say something sweet to make him happy?】

【Tu Xi is hopeless, so thoroughly under Xia Yan’s control, just a three-month promise! What’s there to be happy about?】

【Go check Weibo, there’s a big scandal about Tu Xi, it’s terrifying.】
…

After giving the gift, it was Xia Yan’s turn. He took out the bouquet of pink roses from behind and handed them to Tu Xi.

“A beautiful gift, I really like it.”

“You’ve already given me a ring, a mere bouquet of roses is nothing,” Xia Yan said, standing up and moving to the piano bench. He gave Tu Xi a look from above. “This is the real gift.”

Schubert’s Serenade.

Compared to the earlier Für Elise, this piece was much more difficult. The soothing music, the ambiguous lighting, and their occasional glances created an undercurrent of emotion.

Xia Yan looked noble like a little prince in his suit with the rose pin on his chest.

Tu Xi watched him quietly, a satisfied smile on his lips.

To outsiders, Xia Yan’s words might have seemed callous, but he knew that at that moment when he agreed, he had finally pried open the hard shell of the young man’s heart and touched the soft interior.

Maybe he only reached a small, insignificant part, but he was inside.

With Xia Yan’s personality, as long as he didn’t break up with him, they would be entangled forever. It might be five years, ten years, or even twenty years… Eventually, he would make Xia Yan truly fall in love with him.

As the piano piece concluded, people around them began to talk. Their low murmurs were indistinguishable.

Their gazes, filled with obsession as they watched Xia Yan, turned to jealousy and disdain when they saw Tu Xi.

Something was wrong.

Tu Xi thought.

The malice was too great.

Finally, the last note fell.

Before the applause could begin, a tall man knocked over tables and chairs and ran up to Tu Xi, angrily throwing coffee at him. “You pervert!”

Once the first person acted out, others followed suit, hurling cups from a distance.

“Damn it, I’m a fan of both of you, and following you is disgusting.”

“Stop pretending to be gentle and understanding!.”

“Xia Yan break up with him! He sent people to follow you.”

…

Countless noisy voices mixed together, Tu Xi was the target of public scorn, like a criminal parading through the streets of ancient times, with people throwing everything they had at him.

Coffee, cakes, fruit plates.

In an instant, people turned into monsters, surrounding them completely.

Xia Yan couldn’t think much and quickly ran over, pulling Tu Xi away. A cake hit him, not painful, but the mess was disgusting, making people feel nauseous.

“Have you all gone mad? Or do you want to go to jail?”

“Sorry, Xia Yan, I didn’t mean to hit you. Does it hurt?” The man who threw things panicked, trying to clean up with a handkerchief, but Xia Yan forcefully shook him off. “Get lost, don’t touch me.”

“Xia Yan, you don’t know yet… He’s a pervert, constantly hiring private detectives to follow you.” The pale-faced man persisted in revealing Tu Xi’s true nature, hoping Xia Yan would ‘see the light.’

Xia Yan remained unmoved, with a forced smile, he said, “So? What does this have to do with you?”

His sudden intervention made the atmosphere awkward.

The surrounding people continued to complain.

Xia Yan glanced at Tu Xi, who stood expressionless, coffee staining the side of his face, the warm liquid trickling down his neck and into his clothes, making him sticky and messy.

Xia Yan clicked his tongue lightly and looked at the self-righteous crowd. He suddenly laughed, his eyes filled with disdain, and said, “Do you need to interfere in our matters? Who do you think you are?”

“We are your fans!!!”

“Fans? Did I ask you to be my fans?” Xia Yan shrugged, “Whether you love me or not, how does it help my life?”

Someone indignantly retorted, “Without our support, how would you get endorsements?”

“Was the Beaufort endorsement given to me by you?”

“…”

The crowd fell into embarrassed silence, and Xia Yan casually added, “Besides, I’ve known about Tu Xi following me all along.”

• 1
  520 meaning i love you in chinese slang lol basically Tu Xi just said ily to Xia Yan