Chapter 4 Every day. Every moment.

Life often brings unexpected changes. The gentle breeze that once flowed calmly can suddenly turn into a raging storm. The tranquil ocean, once serene, can devastate thousands in an instant. A cheerful person who once greeted everyone with a smile can become distant and reserved, feeling like a stranger overnight.

After achieving international fame, Jin Taifeng became one of the most beloved pop idols, admired for both his looks and personality. His fans affectionately dubbed him the "Cold Beauty."

However, many were puzzled by the sudden change in their once cheerful and lively idol. His radiant smile had faded, replaced by a stoic expression. His interactions with his bandmates grew distant, and his solo album was filled with melancholic songs about unrequited love, heartbreak, and longing.

His eyes, always searching, seemed to be waiting for someone. And whenever he sang, his gaze spoke through the camera, as if conveying a silent message meant for someone special.

They knew everything, and yet, they knew nothing at all.

After successfully completing their Gleams World Tour, the group was given a chance to relax and bond at the company's farmhouse. Their time together was broadcasted on the popular show, "Gleaming Life."

Lying on his back beneath the vast, starry sky, Jin Taifeng seemed lost in his thoughts. His memories blurred between past and present. Everything was unfolding just as it had before—the world tour was a success, followed by appearances on Western shows, performances, and interviews that left a lasting impression. They won numerous awards, both nationally and internationally, basking in their achievements.

For five years, the cycle repeated. A hectic yet fulfilling life, shared with his five bandmates— Li Wei, Yichen, Zhihao, Ruihan, and himself.

Ruihan, the group's leader and rapper, excelled exceptionally in his performances and collaborated with many renowned artists. Zhihao, the eldest, was known for his lively personality, powerful vocals, and extravagant lifestyle. Li Wei, his best friend, was a flawless dancer and singer, captivating audiences with his grace.

As for Jin Taifeng, his deep, soothing voice was his strength, effortlessly modulating as he pleased. He was also an exceptionally skilled dancer, commanding the stage with every move.

Yet, among them all, the most popular member was Yichen —the perfect combination of striking looks, a well-toned physique, innocence, charm, sensuality, a mesmerizing voice, and impeccable dance skills. Fans often compared Jin Taifeng and Yichen for their talents and visuals, but despite the constant comparisons, there was never any rivalry between them.

Until she arrived.

A stunning 23-year-old woman, whose presence commanded attention the moment she stepped into a room. It wasn't just her beauty—it was the way she spoke, the warmth in her smile, the way her shy demeanor contrasted with the mischievous glint in her eyes when she tricked people into revealing their deepest secrets.

She dressed simply, never caring much about appearances. She thought she was ordinary. But what she failed to realize was that her so-called mediocre looks were enough to captivate some of the most famous idols. They started searching for information about her, looking for ways to collaborate—some even going through her embassy to make it happen.

She was a foreigner to them, having arrived in Country S as a diplomat.

The first time he met her was at a party—an official one. It was a grand event, attended by high-ranking government officials of Country S and esteemed foreign officers, all gathered to celebrate diplomacy and mutual trust.

As representatives of their nation, he and his bandmates were also invited to attend this prestigious occasion.

At that moment, when she arrived with her country's diplomats, she was the very definition of unconventional perfection—a traditional beauty unlike anything he had ever seen before. Her imperfections only made her more captivating.

He clearly remembered how his group members were impressed when she effortlessly conversed in their language with their manager. Fluent. Confident. Graceful.

The moment their country proposed a collaboration, they knew it would be a success. And it was.

Soon, their group began meeting with her regularly to promote their culture in Country M and vice versa. With each encounter, familiarity grew, and the once-formal meetings gradually turned into something more natural—more personal.

Until he realized—she had fallen for Yichen ,and it seemed Yichen liked her too.

At that moment, he felt genuinely happy for him. His youngest bandmate, who had always seemed unlucky in love, had finally found someone special.

He convinced himself that she was just a best friend to him. He laughed with her, supported her, and ignored the subtle fluttering in his heart whenever she was near.

Determined not to interfere, he kept his distance—and for a while, he succeeded.

She and Yichen eventually entered a relationship, but everything crumbled when fans mistakenly spotted them together.

From that moment on, their downfall began—hers, Yichen's, and his.

Now, he was 20, soon turning 21 next month. Five years remained until she would return to their country.

And so, he waited.

Every day. Every moment.

Tears streamed down his face, silent yet relentless.

With his eyes shut, he made a solemn vow—to love her, no matter what.

He had traveled through time itself just for this chance, just to be with her in this life.

This time, he would love her to death.

And this time, he would never let her be taken by someone else.

Lifting his head, he saw his group members sitting together, calling him over for dinner.

Then, his gaze landed on the youngest— Yichen —who was giggling and waving at him, completely unaware of the storm brewing within him.

He forced a smile in return, but his eyes darkened with unshakable resolve.

Maya would be his.

And only his.