After their huge success on stage, Ling Yichen and Jun Moran ushered in a new peak in their careers. Their names became household names in the capital and even the entire ancient entertainment industry. Invitations poured in like snowflakes, covering a wide range of fields such as theatrical performances, commercial endorsements, and cultural exchange activities, keeping them overwhelmed.
In theatrical circles, major opera troupes vied to invite them to perform in their annual blockbusters, even investing heavily in scripts tailored specifically for them. These scripts were all meticulously crafted, featuring dramatic plots and well-developed characters, designed to fully showcase their acting talents. In the realm of commercial endorsements, from high-end jewelry to everyday consumer goods, numerous brands sought to leverage their popularity and image to enhance product awareness and reputation. Their posters adorned the streets and alleys of the capital, becoming a hot topic of conversation. In cultural exchange activities, they represented the ancient entertainment industry on missions to other regions, exchanging skills and experiences with artists from various places, spreading their unique performance style and the charm of ancient culture, earning widespread praise and respect.
However, just as their careers were at their peak, the emotional entanglement between Ling Yichen and Jun Moran was quietly growing and gradually intensifying. Before this, although they could vaguely sense that their feelings for each other went beyond the scope of ordinary friendship, due to the busyness of their acting careers and the potential pressure from societal norms, they had never truly confronted these feelings.
As their fame grew and they spent more time together, their unintentional glances, subtle physical touches, and daily care and concern gradually eroded the emotional dam deep within them. During a rehearsal break, Ling Yichen felt dizzy from exhaustion. Seeing this, Jun Mo Ran rushed to support him, her eyes filled with concern and worry. At that moment, gazing at Jun Mo Ran's face so close to his, Ling Yichen felt an overwhelming urge to express his feelings. But the words caught in his throat, and he swallowed them back. He feared that speaking out would disrupt their current balance and have unpredictable consequences for their careers and lives.
Jun Mo Ran felt the same way. He knew his feelings for Ling Yi Chen had long since transcended the boundaries of friendship, but he also clearly understood that in this ancient society, their relationship was unacceptable to society. He often pondered alone late at night, feeling sweet and happy for his deepening feelings for Ling Yi Chen, yet also deeply worried about the future of this relationship. He feared that if their relationship were exposed, they would not only face public criticism and scorn, but it might also ruin their hard-earned and brilliant careers.
At a grand palace banquet, Ling Yichen and Jun Moran were invited to attend as representatives of the entertainment industry. Their charm attracted the attention of many dignitaries and aristocratic youths. A noblewoman fell in love with Ling Yichen at first sight and approached him, her words filled with admiration. Ling Yichen responded politely, but his gaze kept drifting towards Jun Moran, a strange unease creeping into his heart. Seeing this, Jun Moran also felt a pang of bitterness, but he could only force a smile and pretend nothing was wrong.
Back at the opera troupe, the atmosphere between the two became somewhat subtle and awkward. Ling Yichen tried to break the silence, saying to Jun Moran, "Brother Jun, please don't take the matter of that woman at the banquet today to heart. I'm just an ordinary acquaintance with her." Jun Moran smiled wryly and said, "Yichen, I have no right to interfere in your private affairs. You don't need to explain to me." Despite these words, they could both sense the suppressed tension and inner turmoil in each other's words and expressions.
As time went on, this emotional turmoil gradually affected their work. During an important performance rehearsal, Ling Yichen made several mistakes in his performance due to his restlessness. Jun Mo Ran was also depressed and unable to fully concentrate on the rehearsal, which seriously affected the entire rehearsal schedule. The troupe leader noticed their unusual behavior and spoke with them privately.
"What's wrong with you two lately? You used to be so dedicated and in sync during rehearsals and performances, but now you're making mistakes all the time. You need to understand that you are now the pillars of the troupe and role models for the entire ancient entertainment industry. Your every move is under scrutiny. If your careers are affected by personal matters, it would be a huge loss," the troupe leader said sternly.
Ling Yichen and Jun Mozhan felt deeply ashamed after hearing their teacher's words. They knew they couldn't continue like this and had to resolve their emotional problems as soon as possible. However, it was easier said than done; they wandered in the maze of emotions, unable to find a way out.
During an outing, they came to a secluded valley. The valley was picturesque, with a babbling brook, lush trees, and blooming flowers. It should have been a perfect place to relax, but neither of them had the heart to appreciate the scenery. Ling Yichen, watching Jun Mozhan's retreating figure, finally mustered the courage to say, "Brother Jun, I know our relationship is complicated, but I don't want to keep running away like this anymore. My feelings for you are no longer just those of ordinary friends; I think I... have fallen in love with you."
Upon hearing Ling Yichen's words, Jun Mo Ran's body trembled slightly. He slowly turned around, tears glistening in his eyes. "Yichen, I feel the same way. It's just that I've always been afraid, afraid that this relationship will bring us disaster."
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