Our Tender Harmony

At 18, Xia Ruyun released her first album; at 19, she won the “Best Newcomer” award; and at 23, she became the undisputed darling of a new generation: a “Best Singer” trophy in her cabinet, the power to sell out a stadium in two minutes, and a budding acting career.  Then, during her last performance of the year, she coughed up blood in front of thousands. Having drunk a cup of poisoned water, she collapsed, and her career ground to a halt.  That year, Xia Ruyun won her second Golden Award for “Best Singer” and her first Phoenix Award for “Best Supporting Actress” from the comfort of a hospital bed. Instead of roaring applause and never-ending camera shutters, she had humming machines and ever-present beeping from a heart monitor to keep her company.  That year, a star left the night sky.  Three years later, Xia Ruyun survives on cup ramen, lives in a run-down apartment, and can only see celebrities she used to know through a laptop screen. Until her phone buzzes to life, lit by a message from her agent: [I found another role you might be interested in. Do you want me to sign you up for the audition?] That day, a star flickered back to life.  ----- Five years ago, the public watched in shock as the Li-Yuan Group heiress, Li Feiling, surrendered her inheritance rights to the richest conglomerate in the country to become... an actress.  Netizens couldn’t help but comment. [She must be crazy.] [She must be stupid.] [She must be subjected to a psychological evaluation! Someone this crazy can’t be allowed to leave the house!]  Then came domination. From ages 21 to 26, Li Feiling won a Best Newcomer Award and three Best Actress Awards. She became the undisputed Movie Queen, with brands begging to put her face on a billboard and netizens begging for her to become their wife.  Yet, despite her social butterfly reputation, Li Feiling’s personal life remains quiet. Acquaintances? More than she could count. Friends? Well, she’d never struggle to find someone to talk to at a party. Beyond work, she was happy to spend time alone.  To her, this wasn’t a problem. This had never been a problem. This would never be a problem.  Until she met her.  Until she realized she wanted to pluck a star from the sky.  I had never struggled until I yearned for you.  ===== It's going to be a very slow cute slice of life like all my other stories :D Though... BE PREPARED FOR THE SLOWEST OF BURNS I'M SORRYYYY I DIDN'T THINK IT'D BE THIS SLOW  Updates will be fast in the beginning! (I have a lot stockpiled)I am also a very busy uni student though, so who knows what the posting schedule will slow down to... ;-; believe in me friends... i'll write and post... (though, the more you comment the more motivation I have to write mhm mhm)  Join my discord to talk! (and also for reference images!) Join my patreon to read ahead!  Cover art is not mine btwwww