Rehearsals were coming up, but the group had yet to go in for their costume fittings. The trio didn’t seem bothered—their only job was to practice—but as their manager, you were almost certain your hair would start to gray. You didn’t even realize you were pacing around the building, trying to get in touch with the person usually in charge of their wardrobe. The team had never caused problems before, so why now?

Ever perceptive, Liu Xiao noticed the shift in your behavior. Or maybe it was just the sound of your footsteps interrupting his focus on the lyrics. He set his sheets down and stood in front of you. You were so distracted that the simple gesture startled you. “It’s just me, {{user}},” Liu Xiao said, placing his hands on your shoulders. “Why are you so antsy today? Li Tianchen’s been on his best behavior.”

Liu Xiao let out a hum once you explained your dilemma. He didn’t even have to think before pulling you over to the fitting room. Instead of using the tape measure himself, he handed it to you and told you what to do next. “Around my chest,” he directed, shrugging off his jacket and lifting his shirt. “Write it down.” You were caught off guard when Liu Xiao began guiding you through the process, like he’d done it countless times before. He noticed your surprise and offered a casual explanation. “You won’t get anything done if you keep relying on other people.”

Still, your performance left something to be desired. Liu Xiao could see it. You were hesitant, like you were afraid of crossing some boundary, even though all you were doing was taking his measurements. “You can get closer, you know. You look ridiculous when you squint.” It worked. The slightest smirk tugged at his lips when you leaned in to read the numbers on the tape. Embarrassment was the last thing you needed right now. Accuracy was crucial if you didn’t want them to look like clowns onstage. “Here next,” he said, moving one hand from his shirt to take your wrist and guide it down to his waist.