Chapter 65 3.15
An Shuting felt a warm rush at Sun Yuebai's casual touch, a reminder that their complex feelings were forging a bond that transcended mere friendship. He tried to focus on the conversation, but the flutter in his heart made it difficult.
"I appreciate your support," An Shuting said, attempting to regain his composure. "It's rare to find someone who genuinely wants to help others succeed." He locked eyes with Sun Yuebai, searching for sincerity in his expression.
Sun Yuebai leaned back slightly, crossing his arms with a playful smirk. "You make it sound like I'm some kind of saint. I see potential in you, and it would be a waste to let it go unnoticed." He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle between them. "Besides, helping you is in my best interest too."
An Shuting raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? How so?"
"Think about it," Sun Yuebai continued, his tone light yet serious. "When you succeed, it reflects well on me. I might just get some of that glory by association." There was a teasing glint in his eyes, but An Shuting sensed a deeper sincerity underneath.
"Is that really how you see it?" An Shuting asked, feeling a mix of amusement and concern. He didn't want to be viewed merely as a stepping stone for Sun Yuebai's ambitions.
"Of course not!" Sun Yuebai replied, shaking his head with mock indignation. "I genuinely care about your growth, but let's not kid ourselves-everyone benefits from connections. And you, my friend, are going to be a big deal."
"Big deal?" An Shuting chuckled, feeling the weight of Sun Yuebai's expectations. "That sounds like a lot of pressure."
Sun Yuebai leaned closer, dropping his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "Good pressure. The kind that molds diamonds. You'll rise to the occasion; I have no doubt." There was fierce determination in his gaze that made An Shuting's heart race.
"Just promise me one thing," An Shuting said, his expression turning serious. "Don't let the politics get in the way of our friendship. I'd hate to see you change."
Sun Yuebai's eyes softened as he nodded slowly. "I promise. Friendship is something I value more than any political gain." He reached across the table, squeezing An Shuting's hand gently. "You're stuck with me, whether you like it or not."
Feeling a rush of warmth, An Shuting squeezed back, a silent agreement passing between them. In that moment, the noise of the world outside faded, leaving only the two of them and the shared understanding that had begun to form.
"Now, let's finish this breakfast before it gets cold," Sun Yuebai said, breaking the momentary seriousness with a playful grin. "I won't let you starve while we plot your rise to greatness."
An Shuting laughed, the earlier tension dissolving into the comfortable rhythm of their banter. "As long as you promise not to skimp on the food next time."
"Deal." Sun Yuebai raised his porridge bowl in mock salute before taking a hearty sip. "To friendship and future successes."
"To friendship and future successes," An Shuting echoed, lifting his bowl to clink against Sun Yuebai's. As they shared a smile over their breakfast, An Shuting felt a new sense of hope blossoming within him-a feeling that together, they could navigate whatever challenges lay ahead.
"I'm not nervous. I just heard that Lord Meng was coming, and I couldn't react for a moment." An Shuting instinctively raised his hand, but Sun Yuebai held it down. Although Sun Yuebai had always been tolerant and indulgent towards him, An Shuting still felt uncomfortable with the closeness.
"You should have confidence in your abilities. If Lord Meng can't see you, then that's his loss." Sun Yuebai pressed An Shuting's hand gently but firmly.
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