[The title and blurb may be revised, but the story won't change. The novel opens in July.]
A sharp-tongued, stubbornly devoted, jealous top x an easygoing, naturally minded empath bottom, both idols
Chi Zhong debuted in a top-tier boy band, but his unscrupulous company forced him back into a survival show to be a stepping stone for rookies.
One day, he wakes up and discovers that he's actually a cannon-fodder supporting character in a novel.
Soon, he'll offend some powerful people, get kicked off the show, and meet a tragic end.
Chi Zhong: So fate really does taste bitter QAQ
Chi Zhong was born with synesthesia. He can perceive any image, sound, or emotion as a color, shape, or taste.
To him, good electronic music tastes like cotton candy, the ginger cat downstairs looks like a salted egg yolk wrapped in a filling, and biting into a tangyuan lets him hear moonlight flowing.
He tries his best to avoid the powerful people, only to discover...
The sharp-tongued director isn't scary at all. He's like soda fizzing with bubbles.
The unhinged producer who plays the second male lead writes lyrics with the warmth of winter sunshine.
The villainous big shot seems evil, but is really more like the big orange cat Chi Zhong loves to cuddle.
The protagonist, Mu Xinghe, is the survival show's head mentor and Chi Zhong's former teammate. He's as cool as a mint leaf with a hint of lime.
But whenever he sees Chi Zhong, his emotions taste like lemon vinegar, mint vinegar...
Chi Zhong: Wait, why does the protagonist always get jealous over me?
**
No one expected Chi Zhong, who was meant to be a mere stepping stone, to become a sensation.
Not only that, a famous variety-show director personally designs a stage for him.
An award-winning music producer invites him to work on a new album.
A powerful investor helps him switch companies and gives him the best resources.
The top-tier star even corners him backstage, his expression cool. "Why are you always with other people? Aren't we supposed to be promoting ourselves together?"
Chi Zhong's heart pounds as he carefully touches Mu Xinghe's warm fingertips. "I-I'm just riding your coattails... That's enough."
Mu Xinghe's face is icy, but he pulls Chi Zhong straight into his coat. "If you're going to ride my coattails, do it more."
"There aren't any cameras filming us now. Do we still have to act like this?"
"Yes."
Chi Zhong sneaks a little sniff.
But it really feels like he's hugging a whole vat of vinegar...!
Mutual pining, sweet and satisfying, very sweet, 1v1, HE
*The illness is depicted artistically and should not be used as medical advice or a basis for diagnosis.
*They'll make their relationship public when the time and circumstances are right.
Premise: An uplifting story about the protagonists striving to become good Chinese idols, with a breathtaking romance. A must-read for all women with a bold streak!
