Chapter 70
Ling Yao's possessiveness towards Su Rui was initially just a subtle, almost imperceptible ripple.
During a video call, Ling Yao would hear an unfamiliar male voice on the other end of the line, perhaps one of Su Rui's colleagues or clients. He would casually ask, "Who was talking just now?" His tone was casual, as if it was a casual remark. After receiving the answer, he would simply say "hmm" and change the subject. Su Rui didn't pay any attention.
Later, when he saw new partners he didn't know in the work photos sent by Su Rui, especially men, he no longer just looked at them, but would ask, "I haven't heard you mention this photographer/model/designer before? How was the collaboration?" The questions were still wrapped in the shell of concern, but the meaning of exploration was slightly more obvious.
Su Rui would patiently explain that she was a partner in a new project and even share some interesting work anecdotes. Ling Yao would listen, occasionally responding, but after hanging up, he might subconsciously search for information about the unfamiliar name. He told himself that he simply wanted to learn more about Su Rui's work environment.
The infrequent separations made every encounter precious, but they also magnified Ling Yao's deep-seated unease. The greater his aura, the heavier his constraints, and the things he could fully control seemed to be dwindling. And Su Rui was the most stable and pure existence on his chaotic planetary journey, and he subconsciously feared that even this one person would change.
Once, Su Rui excitedly shared good news with him: a veteran photographer he admired had invited him to participate in a collaborative project. Ling Yao listened, delighted for him, but when he heard the project required three days of field trips, his brows furrowed slightly. "Do you really have to go?" he asked, a hint of nervousness in his voice, even unconsciously. "The weather over there doesn't seem to be good, and... are you going alone?" Su Rui chuckled. "Of course we're going as a team. This opportunity is rare." Ling Yao was silent for a few seconds before saying, "Well, then, be safe. And send me a message every day." His concern was tinged with a subtle desire for control.
The changes were subtle. Ling Yao began to check Su Rui's schedule more frequently. "What day are you free next week? I'll see if I can make time." "When is your outdoor photo shoot going to be? Send me the schedule." He needed to know Su Rui's schedule precisely, as if that was the only way to gain a sense of security.
Su Rui occasionally posts her work on social media, where peers and admirers leave complimentary comments. Ling Yao watches silently, and if someone's tone is too enthusiastic or the same name appears too often, he feels a strange discomfort. He won't say anything, but he might be more reserved the next time they talk.
Su Rui wasn't completely oblivious. He sensed Ling Yao's inquiries had increased, sometimes his concern bordering on an interrogation. But he attributed it more to Ling Yao's intense work pressure and the insecurity he felt over the difficulty of seeing each other. He tried to respond patiently, updating him on his itinerary, and trying to reassure him in his own way.
However, once the vines began to grow, they silently entwined and tightened. Ling Yao's possessiveness didn't diminish despite Su Rui's obedience. Instead, with this tacit consent, it became increasingly subtle and specific. It was hidden in every seemingly ordinary greeting, in every confirmation of the itinerary, and in the grip that tightened tightly because of the extreme fear of losing.
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