Chapter 10: Tension in the Spotlight
The studio was buzzing with reporters and staff. Today's event wasn't just a rehearsal , it was a public showcase, a collaboration with Mei Lin and several other idols for a media campaign. Lin Yue's nerves were on edge, the air thick with cameras and flashing lights.
From across the room, the rival watched, leaning casually against a wall. His smirk was sharper than ever, clearly enjoying the slight tension he could create without directly confronting Lin Yue.
Lin Yue forced himself to focus, but the presence of both Mei Lin and the rival made his pulse race. Mei Lin skipped toward him, chatting animatedly about poses and angles, while Krit remained near, silent and vigilant, his golden eyes scanning every corner.
"Don't get distracted," Krit murmured quietly, just enough for Lin Yue to hear. The words weren't harsh, but the intent was unmistakable — protective, focused, and personal. Lin Yue felt a warmth spread through him at the subtle attention.
During a quick photo setup, the rival tried to edge closer, casting sly glances toward Lin Yue. Krit adjusted his stance slightly, positioning himself in a way that was professional but unmistakably alert. The tension between the rival and Krit was almost palpable, though neither spoke a word.
Mei Lin, oblivious to the undercurrent, leaned close to Lin Yue, giggling as she demonstrated a pose. "See? Just like this! You make it look so natural," she said, her hand brushing his arm accidentally. Lin Yue's face warmed, and he quickly straightened, trying to focus.
Krit's gaze flicked toward the two, and Lin Yue noticed a subtle change — the brief lingering glance, the faint tilt of Krit's head — something just slightly personal in his attention. The spark between them, small but undeniable, grew quietly with each unnoticed glance.
The rival, frustrated that his attempts to unsettle Lin Yue were being blocked by Krit's silent presence, gave a pointed smirk and stepped away, muttering under his breath. Lin Yue exhaled slowly, realizing that Krit's quiet vigilance had once again protected him without a single word.
By the end of the event, Lin Yue felt a mix of exhaustion and a strange exhilaration. Krit followed him silently, making sure the rival remained at a distance, while Mei Lin waved cheerfully, unaware of the subtle tensions at play.
As they left the studio, Lin Yue noticed how attuned Krit had become to his movements, his expressions, his small reactions. That spark — emotional, restrained, and unspoken — continued to grow quietly, threading through their shared moments like an invisible tether.