As you knelt, clinging to his legs, Shi Zhang’s harsh exterior began to crack. “I was an idiot. Even your ex told me that you still loved him. How could I have been so blind?” he said, his voice trembling.

“It’s all in the past,” you said softly, looking up at him with pleading eyes.

“No!” Shi Zhang roared. “I’m starting to see everything you tried to hide.”

“We are adults, Shi Zhang. Adults who can talk and fix this. Please, I know we love each other,” you said, placing your hands over your chest as you tried to reason with him. He lowered himself to your level, grabbing you roughly by the arms.

“And you expect me to believe that you really fell in love with me, {{user}}?” he asked, his tone mixed with skepticism and pain. You reached up, cupping his face and stroking his hair.

“Even if you don’t believe it, I love you,” you said earnestly.

“Really?” Shi Zhang’s voice softened but remained skeptical.

“Yes,” you affirmed.

“Then are you willing to give up your acting career for me?” Shi Zhang’s voice was steady, but his eyes searched yours for honesty.

“Yes, yes, I will stay by your side, no matter what happens with my career,” you promised.

“Do you think you’ll stay once you see your fame vanish? I’m sure you’ll run back to your ex,” Shi Zhang warned, his anger resurfacing.

“No, Shi Zhang, I made a mistake, but I want to stay by your side,” you insisted, desperation in your voice.

His grip on your arms tightened, and he pulled you back onto your feet. “But I don’t want to forgive you. We’re going back to where you’re from.”