Chapter 7: A heartbeat Away

Yuan Zi arrived at the university, his tall figure effortlessly drawing attention as he walked through the campus. The professor greeted him with a nod before delivering the news.

"You'll be shooting with Zhenya today."

At the mention of her name, Yuan Zi's gaze shifted.

Zhenya stood a short distance away, looking at him. The moment their eyes met, it felt as if the world had come to a halt. He was even more handsome in person than on screen—so breathtaking that her heart pounded wildly in her chest. But she forced herself to remain composed, suppressing the excitement bubbling inside her.

"Hello," she said, her voice calm, betraying none of the emotions stirring within her.

Yuan Zi studied her for a moment, his deep, unreadable eyes lingering on her face. He recalled seeing her before—just the other day, sitting alone on a bench. He had noticed her then but had chosen to remain silent.

Now, hearing her soft greeting, he responded with a simple nod.

His voice, deep and rich, sent a shiver down her spine. Her heart fluttered uncontrollably.

Not far away, Tang Xi stood watching, her expression darkening. That should be me, she thought bitterly. Watching Zhenya stand beside Yuan Zi, her frustration twisted into something more sinister.

She turned to her friends, voice low and sharp. "Make sure Zhenya falls from the stairs. Pour oil on them."

Her friends hesitated for only a moment before nodding.

Meanwhile, Yuan Zi, who had been passing nearby, overheard every word. His gaze darkened, but his face remained impassive. He pulled out his phone and sent a quiet instruction to his assistant. "Go back to the car and wait."

Minutes later, Zhenya arrived, completely unaware of the danger ahead. She took a step toward the staircase, her foot just inches from the first step—

In an instant, strong hands gripped her arm and pulled her back. She stumbled, but instead of hitting the ground, she landed against something solid. Warm.

Yuan Zi.

Her breath hitched. She could feel his heartbeat beneath his shirt, steady yet strangely fast.

For a moment, everything was still. Then, slowly, she tilted her head up, meeting his gaze.

His dark eyes locked onto hers, intense and unwavering.

Zhenya's cheeks flushed a soft red.

Yuan Zi stared at her, his heart pounding—faster than it should.

Yuan Zi's grip remained firm for a moment longer before he finally loosened his hold. His deep voice, laced with concern, broke the silence.

"Are you alright?"

Zhenya blinked, still trying to steady her racing heart. She nodded quickly. "Yes… I'm fine."

Realizing how close they were, she instinctively took a step back, putting some distance between them. The warmth of his touch still lingered on her skin, but she forced herself to push the feeling aside.

Lowering her gaze, she whispered, "Thank you."

Her voice was soft, almost hesitant, but Yuan Zi caught every word. He didn't respond immediately, his dark eyes watching her with an unreadable expression.

Zhenya clenched her hands at her sides, willing herself to stay composed. Then, without waiting for a reply, she turned away, her heart still pounding in her chest.