Self-Imposed Limits

Zhong Yi has finally graduated. After spending four years coasting through college, he graduates straight into unemployment.

But there’s always a way forward. Thanks to his overflowing musical talent and incredible luck (meaning connections), Zhong Yi lands a spot on a rap show.

Before the show airs:

“So, who’s Zhong Yi? Which label is he with?”

“They’ve got a little quail mixed in with all those big shots. He must’ve taken Yan Zihan’s spot.”

“Another rich kid here to experience life. Does he not know this scene’s other name is ‘don’t get involved’?”

“Poor thing. Just wait till the hate starts.”

After the show airs:

“His style is so unique. I love it.”

“How does he manage to be both cool and adorable?”

“His songs are so good, too. Man, you’ve got my attention.”

Just like that, Zhong Yi’s songs quickly climb to the top of the music charts, but his fanbase doesn’t grow. He can’t figure out why.

Then one day, a passerby leaves a comment: “I really do want to be his fan. He raps well and he’s handsome, but his EQ is kind of low.”

“Exactly. I don’t even dare tell people I’m a Zhong Yi fan. It’s kind of embarrassing.”

Scene One: The Seat-Saving Fiasco

“I’ll just sit on the side,” Sha Niao says.

“No, no, Brother Sha, take the middle seat. I saved it especially for you,” says Wei Xiao.

“It’s fine, really. Anywhere works. I’m a contestant this time, too, so don’t fuss over me,” Sha Niao says, waving a hand.

“Brother Sha, if you don’t sit there, how could we possibly sit down?”

“...”

Zhong Yi: “Is this seat cursed or something? If nobody wants it, I’ll take it.”

Then he adds, “I’m not afraid of curses.”

Scene Two: The Vote-Begging Round

Xie Rui appeals for votes: “If I make it through, I plan to propose to my love in the next round. I hope everyone will give us their blessing.”

Zhong Yi: “Don’t you not have a partner?” Standing onstage, he thinks it over seriously. “If you need to rent someone, I know a guy.”

Xie Rui: deceased.

“I want to walk on sixpence and rest my head on the moon.” This was Zhong Yi’s wish at nineteen. Now, he’s made it come true.

A sharp-tongued, low-EQ bottom who often says astonishing things but understands everything deep down X a seasoned, calculating top who is only gentle with him

Content warnings:

1. The top falls in love with the bottom at first sight, totally, totally, totally. The bottom is a little slow to recognize his feelings.

2. Some real-world songs will be quoted now and then, because I think the meaning behind certain rap songs can never be replaced.

3. There will be a few other couples in the story, but the main couple’s position is unshakable. No one can be sweeter than the two of them.

Theme: The dream is right there. It’s up to you whether you chase it!