#egoitsharu

[egoitsharu]

I loved the drawing, I love it 🖤🤍

@soukokuarchives This is how the person responsible for this beautiful image is on Twitter 🫶

[seoryne]

askin all my mutuals

what was ur most embarrassing experience??? (please please please don't tell me only i'm the one who embarrasses myself like a daily task)

@midorriii @ventiilatte @momhwa1117 @purfectmocha @dokjas-lostselfpreservation @yingdu-lover @shiguangw0rld @mycutiepatotie @egoitsharu @tabsters

[dokjas-lostselfpreservation]

@yingdu-lover @thegh0st-of-ingrid @ventiilatte @aoko-san @tabsters @egoitsharu @purfectmocha

SO @hyeesong @croded AND I TOOK A "What Link Click character are you" AND I WANT Y'ALL TO TAKE IT TOO HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHA

hyeesong got Lu Guang (liu xiao on a diff site and refuses to accept it lmao)

croded got Cheng Xiaoshi (liu min on the other site and refuses to accept it aswell :D)

i got Xia Fei (and qiao ling on the diff one so i love both either way hehehehehehe)

here is the link!! TEMME WHAT YOU GOTKAJAJSJS (ps. anyone who wants to join take it can do too!!<3)

so!!

@aoko-san got Wang Qing!! i guess it adds to your coolness lmao

@thegh0st-of-ingrid got Wang Qing too!!!!! y'all are smart and cool likenajsjsnsnsn

@yingdu-lover got Lu Guang, I suggest asking for help as a way to get out of this curse blessing<3

@ventiilatte got Cheng Xiaoshi, pls get therapy y'all worry me

@tabsters got Xia Fei, twinnnn!!<33 but honestly we should also get help

[egoitsharu]

Theory: The True Secret Behind Time Travel Through Photos in Link Click

From the beginning of Link Click, Cheng Xiaoshi's ability to travel to the past through photos seems like a well-established mechanic: when he touches a photo, he can take over the body of the person who took it for up to 12 hours, while Lu Guang can see the events of that timeline and help him avoid straying too far.

But how is it possible that a simple photo allows time travel? My theory is that photos are not just images of the past but fragments of consciousness trapped in a moment of time, and accessing them means merging with the memory of the person who took them.

1. Photos Are "Anchoring Points" of Consciousness

In the series, Xiaoshi does not physically travel to the past; instead, he takes control of someone else's body at the exact moment the photo was taken. This suggests that he is not transporting his body to the past but that his consciousness is jumping into a past version of another person.

This implies that photos are not just static images but store more information than they appear to. In some way, they preserve fragments of the consciousness of the person who took them, and Xiaoshi can access these fragments, absorbing the thoughts and emotions of the subject at that specific moment.

If this is true, then each photo is an anchoring point in the flow of time—a node where a person's consciousness was recorded strongly enough to allow someone else to temporarily inhabit it.

This would also explain why Xiaoshi can only stay in the past for a limited time: his own consciousness is struggling against that of the person he inhabits, and eventually, he will be expelled back to his original timeline.

2. Time Travel Is Not Based on the Image, But on the Emotional Connection

If photos truly store fragments of consciousness, then the ability to travel through time is not just about the image itself but about the emotional weight of the captured moment.

This would explain several strange aspects of the series:

The most powerful photos seem to be tied to strong emotional events. For example, photos filled with suffering, happiness, or fear appear to be more "potent" for time travel.

When Xiaoshi enters a photo, he does not just see what was happening at that moment—he can also feel the thoughts and emotions of the person who took it. This indicates that he is accessing more than just visual memories; he is immersing himself in the photographer’s mind at that instant.

If the emotional bond is not strong, the travel might not work properly. Perhaps this is why Xiaoshi cannot simply choose any random photo and enter it.

3. Photos Not Only Capture the Past but Also Create Alternate Realities

If each photo stores a fragment of consciousness and allows access to a past timeline, then every time Xiaoshi enters a photo, he is actually creating a new branch in time.

This would mean that:

When he changes something in the past, he is not altering his own timeline but generating a new reality where things unfold differently.

Photos could serve as "gates" between timelines. If Xiaoshi could learn to control his ability better, he might be able to re-enter a photo he has already visited to see how things have changed.

If someone took a photo in the future and Xiaoshi managed to enter it, he could theoretically travel forward in time, not just backward.

This leads us to an even more terrifying possibility:

4. The Real Danger: What If Xiaoshi Is Not the Only One Who Can Use This Power?

If photos truly contain fragments of people's consciousness, then anyone with Xiaoshi’s ability could potentially access those memories and inhabit them.

This presents several dangers:

Someone else could enter the same photos as Xiaoshi and change events unpredictably.

The antagonist of the Bridon Arc may have discovered how to access photos without restrictions, allowing him to manipulate multiple timelines at once.

If Xiaoshi stays too long inside a photo, his consciousness could become permanently trapped, merging with the mind of the person he inhabits.

This could mean that the greatest risk for Xiaoshi is not just changing the past but getting lost within the timelines and becoming an entity trapped in time, unable to return to his own body.

5. Possible Implications for the Future of the Series

If this theory is correct, then the ending of Link Click could explore several intriguing concepts:

The discovery that photos can be used to travel to alternate realities, not just the past.

The existence of other people who can use this power, some with dangerous intentions.

The moment when Xiaoshi must decide whether to continue using his abilities or risk getting trapped inside a photo forever.

The possibility that Lu Guang has a deeper understanding of how this power truly works and is hiding information to protect Xiaoshi.

Perhaps the true purpose of Link Click is not just to solve mysteries and help people but to uncover what photos really are and why they have the power to connect consciousness across time.

Conclusion: What If the True Mystery Is Not Time, But Memory?

More than a story about time travel, Link Click could be a story about the nature of memory and human consciousness.

Photos are not just simple images but fragments of the mind and soul of those who take them. When Xiaoshi enters them, he is not merely seeing the past—he is reliving it from within someone else’s mind.

If this is true, then the key to understanding his power is not in time itself but in how memories shape reality and how emotions can alter the course of destiny.

[egoitsharu]

Lu Guang and Cheng Xiaoshi in Yin and Yang

What is Yin and Yang? 🌑

In Chinese philosophy, Yin and Yang are a way of understanding the world through dualities: darkness and light, passivity and activity, cold and heat, emotional and rational. These are not absolute opposites or good versus evil, but rather forces that need each other to exist. Within Yin, there is a part of Yang, and vice versa. Everything is in constant transformation and balance.

Cheng Xiaoshi as Yang 🖤

Yang represents the active, the impulsive, the emotional, the fire, the sun. Cheng Xiaoshi fits this energy because of:

Intense emotionality: Cheng is driven by his emotions. He is impulsive, sometimes acting without thinking, especially when he connects with the pain of the people he helps.

Direct action: He is the one who enters the photos, who acts and gets involved. He is always on the move, the spark of action.

Impulsiveness and passion: His approach to life is heart-first. This makes him compassionate, but also exposes him to suffering.

Lu Guang as Yin 🤍

Yin symbolizes introspection, rationality, analysis, calm, water, and the moon. Lu Guang is its natural representation:

Rationality and control: Lu Guang thinks before acting. He is analytical, serene, and often keeps his emotions to himself to maintain control.

Observant: He doesn't act directly within the photos, but he is the one who guides, plans, and anticipates risks.

Apparently cold: Although he is very sensitive, he shows it in a restrained manner. He appears distant, but his concern for Cheng is deep and constant.

The balance between them ☯️

The relationship between Cheng and Lu is not just friendship or work: it is a constant dance between Yin and Yang.

Cheng gives Lu emotional warmth, pushing him to connect more with feelings and not just logic.

Lu gives Cheng stability and boundaries, keeping him from getting lost in his emotionality and self-destruction.

When one loses control, the other balances him: if Cheng despairs, Lu slows him down. If Lu closes himself off too much, Cheng opens him up.

They are two halves of a whole. One cannot function without the other. Cheng represents life that burns brightly, and Lu represents the wisdom that contains it without extinguishing it.

Within Yin there is Yang, and within Yang there is Yin 🌓

Although Cheng is impulsive, he has moments of great sensitivity, where he demonstrates a quiet maturity (his Yin).

Although Lu Guang appears cold, he displays subtle gestures of deep care, such as his glances, his pauses to let Cheng feel, or the pain he silently carries (his Yang).

This shows that they are not pure extremes, but rather nuanced human beings. This makes them real, complex, and endearing.

(I would like to analyze the characters and their symbolism)

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 1: The ocean is a soup

Out of nowhere, Cheng Xiaoshi suddenly shouted in the middle of the studio:

—THE OCEAN IS A SOUP!!!

Lu Guang, completely caught off guard, looked up from his book.

—Context? —he asked, his usual calm voice mixed with confusion.

Cheng Xiaoshi, with an air of intelligence, smirked mischievously.

—What are the basic ingredients of a soup? —he asked as if he were unveiling a great philosophical truth.

Lu Guang, answering with pure logic, replied without hesitation:

—Water, salt, vegetables… and I add meat.

Qiao Ling, who had been nearby, processed the information slowly. Her face showed a mix of confusion and realization.

—Wait… the ocean is a soup?

Cheng Xiaoshi and Qiao Ling, in perfect sync, started shouting and dancing around the studio.

—THE OCEAN IS A SOUP!!!

Lu Guang watched them from his chair, visibly tired of their nonsense. He wasn't sure if this was a nightmare or just another bizarre episode in his daily life.

With a deep sigh, he finally muttered:

—Oh my god…

Meanwhile, Cheng Xiaoshi and Qiao Ling continued spinning around, celebrating their newfound “discovery,” completely unbothered by logic.

It was just another day at the studio, though Lu Guang was sure that the phrase “THE OCEAN IS A SOUP” would haunt him for a long time.

[dokjas-lostselfpreservation]

WHAO okay thanks for the tagg :D

THIS WAS FUNN (i'm about to study all my moots results hehhehehehe)

now,

1. i do not have infinite friends– but i used to!! now I have a few who I cherish alot<33

2. LITERALLY EVERYTHING IS ON POINT OHMYGOD

I'd love to be in a (mostly) soft/chill relationship, and now I feel single. thank you. •⁠‿⁠•⁠

tags: @yingdu-lover @croded @iguesswhatimtryingtosayis @hyeesong @irdkbutdontask @momhwa1117 @purfectmocha

@egoitsharu @aoko-san (welcome to my spams<3 I'll tag you wherever so buckle up!!)

Fun little quiz

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 4: Cleaning Day

Lu Guang looked around with his arms crossed. The shop was a complete mess—piles of photography equipment boxes stacked in a corner, tangled cables all over the table, and Cheng Xiaoshi’s desk… well, best not to even talk about that.

—This can’t be ignored any longer —Lu Guang said firmly.

—Yes, it can. Just close your eyes and problem solved —Cheng Xiaoshi replied, lying face down on the couch.

Lu Guang exhaled patiently.

—Qiao Ling is out, so today we’re cleaning.

—"We"? I don’t remember agreeing to that.

Lu Guang stared at him.

—If you don’t help, the next time you order takeout, mine will mysteriously be the only one that arrives.

Cheng Xiaoshi immediately sat up.

—That’s unnecessary cruelty!

—Then get to work.

With a dramatic sigh, Cheng Xiaoshi grabbed a broom while Lu Guang started organizing papers.

At first, everything was going fine. Cheng Xiaoshi swept, though more out of obligation than genuine effort. But when he found an old camera in a dusty box, his interest shifted immediately.

—Hey, check this out!

Lu Guang, who was folding a cloth, looked up just in time to see Cheng Xiaoshi aiming the camera at him.

—No.

—Yes!

Click.

Cheng Xiaoshi looked at the screen with a smug grin.

—Ha! The first-ever photo of the legendary "Lu Guang at work." Super rare, limited edition.

Lu Guang ignored him and kept cleaning. But then, Cheng Xiaoshi approached again, camera still in hand.

—Okay, what if I tell you to smile?

—I won’t.

—And if I tickle you…

—Don’t even try it.

Cheng Xiaoshi grinned mischievously and stretched out his fingers menacingly.

—I said don’t even try it.

—Wow, you’re fast at dodging!

Cheng Xiaoshi tried to take another photo, but Lu Guang covered the lens with his hand.

—If you have so much energy, use that motivation to clean.

—Or… we could take a break…

Lu Guang handed him a cloth without a word.

—...Okay, I get it.

After a lot of effort (and several failed photos of Lu Guang dodging the camera), they finally finished cleaning the shop.

Cheng Xiaoshi flopped onto the couch with satisfaction.

—Look how nice everything is now. It almost looks like responsible people work here.

—Yeah, too bad you’ll mess it up again in a couple of days.

—How could you say that about me?

Lu Guang looked at him with a neutral expression.

—Because I know you.

Cheng Xiaoshi clicked his tongue but then smiled.

—Well, at least I got a picture of you… even if you look like you want to kill me.

Lu Guang sighed.

—I don’t "want" to, but if you keep bothering me, I might consider it.

—Ha! You admitted it’s possible!

The cleaning day ended with the shop spotless and a new photo added to Cheng Xiaoshi’s secret collection.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 5: Under the Rain

The sky had been cloudy since early morning, but Cheng Xiaoshi hadn’t thought much about it when he left the shop to run an errand. Now, standing under the roof of a random store, he watched with a mix of frustration and resignation as the rain fell without any intention of stopping.

—Great… I forgot the umbrella.

He checked his phone and saw a message from Qiao Ling:

[Homemade]: Don’t get wet, idiot. I don’t want you missing work because you got sick.

—Too late for that —he muttered.

As he debated whether to just run back through the rain, he heard a familiar voice.

—You should’ve checked the weather before leaving.

Cheng Xiaoshi turned around and saw Lu Guang, holding a black umbrella with his usual impassive expression.

—What are you doing here?

—You were taking longer than necessary. I figured you forgot to bring an umbrella

—Hey, you make it sound like that’s something I always do.

—Because it is.

Cheng Xiaoshi clicked his tongue but smiled slightly.

—Well, since you came to rescue me, at least lend me the umbrella.

—No.

—What?

—If I lend it to you, I know you won’t return it. Let’s walk together.

Lu Guang opened the umbrella and started walking without waiting for a response. Cheng Xiaoshi followed, hesitating under the roof for a moment before taking the first step into the rain.

The sound of raindrops hitting the umbrella filled the silence between them. Cheng Xiaoshi realized that, even though they were sharing it, he had to walk a little closer to Lu Guang to avoid getting wet.

—Hey, give me a little more space.

—I’m already covering you enough.

—My shoulder is getting wet.

—Then walk straight.

Cheng Xiaoshi sighed but didn’t move away. In fact, he allowed himself to lean just a little closer to the center, feeling the subtle warmth of Lu Guang beside him.

—You could’ve just let me get wet and stayed inside.

—I thought about it —Lu Guang replied without hesitation—, but then I remembered that if you caught a cold, you’d whine like a kid.

Cheng Xiaoshi laughed softly.

—Yeah, I’m sure that was the only reason.

Lu Guang didn’t respond, but Cheng Xiaoshi noticed the umbrella tilting ever so slightly in his direction, making sure to cover him better.

They kept walking in silence, the rain their only companion. Without either of them mentioning it, their steps fell into sync.

By the time they reached the shop, the rain was still falling, but Cheng Xiaoshi didn’t mind it as much anymore.

—Thanks for coming to get me.

Lu Guang nodded, as if it were nothing.

—Just don’t forget the umbrella next time.

Cheng Xiaoshi smiled, watching as Lu Guang calmly closed the umbrella and shook off the droplets.

—Yeah, yeah… though if I forget it, I guess you’ll come again.

Lu Guang glanced at him out of the corner of his eye, and for a brief moment, Cheng Xiaoshi could swear he saw a small smile.

—We’ll see.

And with that, they stepped into the shop together.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 3: An Unexpected Client

The soft chime of the doorbell marked the arrival of the first client of the day. Cheng Xiaoshi, with his feet propped up on the counter and a bag of chips in hand, turned his head curiously. Qiao Ling, sitting at her desk, shot him a warning look before standing up to greet the visitor.

—Welcome to Time Photo Studio, how can we help you? —she said with a professional smile.

The client, a middle-aged man with glasses and a slightly wrinkled suit, cleared his throat before pulling out a stack of old photographs from his bag.

—I’d like to have these photos restored. They’re very important to me.

Lu Guang, who had been focused on his laptop until then, adjusted his glasses and stepped forward to inspect them.

—We can do it, but it will take a couple of days depending on their condition —he said calmly, examining the worn edges and water stains.

Cheng Xiaoshi, bored with his role as a spectator, leaned over Lu Guang’s shoulder.

—Wow, these photos are old… Are they from your family?

The man nodded with a nostalgic smile.

—Yes, some are from my wedding, and others are of my children when they were little. I don’t want them to be lost over time.

Qiao Ling took notes while Lu Guang assessed the necessary work. Cheng Xiaoshi, meanwhile, found himself staring at a particular photo—a family gathered in a park, smiling so warmly that, for a moment, he forgot they were just restoring images, not bringing moments back to life.

—All right, we’ll take care of it —he finally said, a spark of determination in his eyes.

The client thanked them and left after leaving a contact number. Once the door closed behind him, Qiao Ling sighed and looked at Cheng Xiaoshi with her hands on her hips.

—And now what?

—Nothing, nothing —he replied, raising his hands innocently—. I was just thinking… Photos are amazing, aren’t they? They capture moments that will never come back, but at least they keep them alive on paper.

Lu Guang glanced at him and scoffed.

—That’s exactly what we do here, in case you hadn’t noticed.

—Of course I know that! —Cheng Xiaoshi protested, making a face—. But still, it’d be incredible to…

He stopped himself before saying more and shook his head with a smile.

—Forget it, let’s get to work.

Lu Guang and Qiao Ling exchanged looks but didn’t press him. As each of them took on their role in the restoration, the first job of the day began at Time Photo Studio.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 10: Visit to Qiao's Family

—Are you sure it’s not a bother? —Cheng Xiaoshi asked as he walked alongside Qiao Ling down a quiet street.

—Of course not! —she replied with a smile—. Besides, my mom always says you should visit us more often.

—Well, but if I stay too long, she’ll probably have me do something…

—Obviously —Qiao Ling laughed—. Don’t think you’re just coming to eat!

Cheng Xiaoshi dramatically sighed, but the truth was, he liked visiting Qiao’s family. Since they were kids, they had always treated him like part of the family.

When they arrived, Qiao Ling's mother greeted them with a big smile.

—Xiaoshi! Long time no see!

—I came during the New Year…

—That was months ago. Come on, come in, I’ll get you something to eat.

Qiao Ling gave him a teasing look while he sighed, resigned.

🌗✨🌓

After some conversation and snacks, Qiao Ling's mom put them to work in the kitchen. Cheng Xiaoshi, wearing a ridiculously colorful apron, peeled potatoes while Qiao Ling chopped vegetables.

—Why do I feel like this was a trap? —Cheng Xiaoshi asked, concentrating on his task.

—Because it was —Qiao Ling admitted shamelessly.

—At least tell me you’ll give us dessert.

—If you do a good job, maybe mom will let us have some extra.

—Then I’ll give it my best effort!

Qiao Ling’s mom watched them with a smile from the door.

—You two act like siblings, huh?

—Something like that —Qiao Ling replied, smiling.

Cheng Xiaoshi looked at her and then went back to his potatoes.

—Well, you’re like the sister I never had.

—And you’re the annoying brother I didn’t ask for.

—Hey, that’s rude.

They both laughed while continuing their task.

🌗✨🌓

After dinner, Cheng Xiaoshi flopped on the couch with a sigh.

—I ate too much…

—That happens when you fill up on snacks before dinner —Qiao Ling commented, sitting beside him.

Her mom peeked her head from the kitchen.

—Xiaoshi, you can stay the night if you want. It’s getting late.

—Yes! Stay! Then we can stay up watching old movies! —Qiao Ling insisted.

Cheng Xiaoshi smiled.

—Okay, but only if there’s popcorn.

—Done!

While Qiao Ling went to prepare it, Cheng Xiaoshi looked around. This house brought back memories from his childhood when he’d spend whole afternoons here, playing with Qiao Ling. It felt warm, familiar.

Maybe, in a way, this was his family too.

🌗✨🌓

Lu Guang enjoyed the peace and quiet.

It wasn’t that he disliked Cheng Xiaoshi or Qiao Ling’s company, but sometimes, a little silence in the studio was a necessary break.

With Cheng Xiaoshi at Qiao Ling’s family’s house, the shop was unusually calm. Lu Guang sat at his desk with a cup of tea, reviewing some photos that needed editing.

One click here, one adjustment there. Meticulous, orderly work, without interruptions.

Peace.

Silence.

Tranquility.

Until his phone vibrated.

[Xiaoshi]: Hey, GuangGuang, what are you doing?

Lu Guang sighed and replied with a simple: “Working.”

[Xiaoshi]: Boring. I’m watching a movie with Qiao.

He didn’t respond. It wasn’t necessary. But a minute later, another message arrived.

[Xiaoshi]: If you were here, you’d probably be complaining about the plot holes.

Lu Guang rolled his eyes and left his phone face down on the desk. He returned to his editing.

Five minutes of peace.

Then, another message.

[Xiaoshi]: Hey, are you sure you’re okay alone in the studio?

Lu Guang frowned.

[You]: I’m not a child. I’m fine.

[Xiaoshi]: Yeah, yeah, but the place must feel weird without me, huh?

[You]: It’s quiet. Which is nice.

[Xiaoshi]: Hey, that sounds offensive.

Lu Guang put the phone aside and went back to work.

Another while passed, and he finally finished editing. He leaned back in his chair, enjoying the silence of the night.

He looked around. Everything was in place, spotless.

Too peaceful.

Unusually peaceful.

He rubbed his temples and sighed.

Just as he was about to get up to make more tea, his phone vibrated again.

[Xiaoshi]: Don’t forget to turn off the lights before you sleep.

Lu Guang stared at the message for a few seconds and, without thinking too much, wrote back:

[You]: You don’t forget to do the same at Qiao Ling’s house.

Three dots appeared on the screen.

[Xiaoshi]: AJJAJAJ, Lu Guang cares about me!

Lu Guang turned off his phone and headed to his room.

Definitely, peace had its limits.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 9: Unexpected Concert

—A concert?

Cheng Xiaoshi looked at Qiao Ling in disbelief as she held out three tickets with a big grin.

—Yes! I got these last-minute tickets, and I thought it’d be fun for the three of us to go.

—What band is it? —Lu Guang asked disinterestedly, still looking at his phone.

—That doesn’t matter. It’s live music, and it’ll be fun. —Qiao Ling nudged Cheng Xiaoshi—. Besides, you like anything with a good rhythm, right?

Cheng Xiaoshi took a ticket and examined it.

—I guess… But what about Lu Guang?

Qiao Ling and Cheng Xiaoshi turned to look at the mentioned person at the same time, but he didn’t even lift his gaze.

—You two can go.

—No way! —Qiao Ling exclaimed, crossing her arms—. We’re not going without you.

—I’m not interested —Lu Guang replied calmly.

—Come on, Lu Guang, it’ll be good for you to get out for a bit. Besides, if you leave us alone, who knows what kind of disaster we’ll cause?

—That’s exactly what concerns me.

Qiao Ling sighed dramatically.

—We’ll take that as a yes. We’re leaving at seven!

Lu Guang didn’t get a chance to protest.

🎶🎟️🎶

When they arrived at the concert venue, the atmosphere was electric: neon lights, music pounding in the background, and a crowd buzzing with excitement.

—Look at all these people! —Cheng Xiaoshi exclaimed, taking in the sight.

—It’s a concert. What did you expect? —Lu Guang adjusted his glasses and sighed.

While Qiao Ling browsed the merch stands, Cheng Xiaoshi turned to Lu Guang with a mischievous grin.

—Hey, Lu Guang, want me to buy you a band poster so you can cherish this unforgettable experience?

—No.

—How about a T-shirt?

—No.

—A wristband?

—No.

—Come on, show some concert spirit!

—My concert spirit is not being here.

Cheng Xiaoshi rolled his eyes, but before he could keep teasing, the lights dimmed and the music began.

🎶🎟️🎶

The concert was more energetic than Lu Guang had anticipated. Qiao Ling hummed along to the songs, while Cheng Xiaoshi jumped to the beat, completely absorbed in the moment.

Lu Guang remained more reserved, but he couldn’t help but notice how happy Cheng Xiaoshi looked. His energy was contagious, his smile radiant under the stage lights.

At some point, Cheng Xiaoshi turned and grabbed Lu Guang’s wrists.

—Come on, at least nod your head a little!

Lu Guang shot him a blank look.

—I won’t.

—Just once!

—No.

—Come on, Lu Guang, this is a concert, not a library!

—…

With a resigned sigh, Lu Guang gave the smallest possible nod.

Cheng Xiaoshi stared at him for a moment before bursting into laughter.

—JAJAJJAJ! That was the bare minimum, but we’ll take it!

Qiao Ling, who had witnessed the scene, grinned in amusement.

—Lu Guang at his peak enthusiasm.

Lu Guang averted his gaze, but his arms crossed defensively, a faint blush appearing on his cheeks.

—Don’t make a big deal out of this.

🎶🎟️🎶

When the concert ended and they stepped out into the cool night air, Cheng Xiaoshi stretched his arms with a huge smile.

—That was amazing! Right, Lu Guang?

Lu Guang looked away.

—It was… tolerable.

—Ha! I knew you liked it.

Qiao Ling smiled.

—Maybe we should go out more often.

—If that means seeing Lu Guang nod his head again, I’m all for it —Cheng Xiaoshi joked.

Lu Guang sighed, but in his mind, he could still picture Cheng Xiaoshi, grinning under the stage lights.

Maybe, just maybe, it hadn’t been so bad after all.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 8: Shopping Afternoon

The sun shone in a clear sky, and the air was fresh. Nothing like a day without rain or distractions. Cheng Xiaoshi was lounging in a chair at the studio, scrolling through his phone while Qiao Ling organized some papers and Lu Guang reviewed the shop’s budget.

—Hey, how about we go shopping? —Cheng Xiaoshi suddenly said, looking up from his phone.

Qiao Ling gave him a puzzled look.

—Shopping? Seriously?

—Yes, shopping. You know, clothes, gadgets, things we don’t need but end up buying anyway.

Lu Guang sighed.

—You always do that and never use half of what you buy.

Cheng Xiaoshi grinned mischievously.

—But the fun is in the process. Besides, you guys need new stuff too.

Qiao Ling thought for a moment, then nodded.

—I guess a change of scenery wouldn’t be so bad.

And so, after a brief moment of indecision, the three of them decided to head to the mall.

☀️🛍️☀️

The first store they entered was a clothing shop. Cheng Xiaoshi started trying on various t-shirts, but apparently, none were "fun" enough for him.

—What about this one? —he asked, holding up a t-shirt with a design of a dancing cat.

Qiao Ling raised an eyebrow.

—Seriously?

—It’s a masterpiece!

Lu Guang didn’t even look up from his phone.

—Stop wasting money on useless things.

—But it’s a cat! And it’s dancing!

Qiao Ling couldn’t help but laugh.

—Alright, alright. If you like it, buy it. But don’t wear it when we have customers.

Cheng Xiaoshi shrugged.

—Fine, fine! But only because I don’t want my art to be criticized.

After wandering through more racks, they passed by a gadget store. Cheng Xiaoshi quickly rushed to a section selling small drones.

—Look at this! —he said, holding up a tiny helicopter-shaped drone—. It’s perfect for aerial photos for the shop!

Qiao Ling gave him a skeptical look.

—Cheng Xiaoshi, how many gadgets are you going to buy before you actually use them?

—It’s an investment in the shop’s future!

Lu Guang, who had finally put down his phone and started paying attention, walked over to the shelf.

—We don’t need that right now. Let’s focus on things we’ll actually use.

Cheng Xiaoshi shrugged.

—Well, maybe I’ll get it later… for the future.

After a couple of hours, everyone had something in their hands, but the shopping trip wasn’t as chaotic as usual. Qiao Ling was more decisive, buying a new bag, while Lu Guang picked out a few simple shirts. Cheng Xiaoshi, as expected, ended up with several things he didn’t even know how to use.

—Are we done now? —Lu Guang asked, checking his watch.

—Almost —Cheng Xiaoshi grinned—. Just one last stop.

—No, Cheng Xiaoshi. No more stores. That’s enough.

Cheng Xiaoshi looked at the shop in front of him.

—Just one more! I promise it’ll be the last one.

Qiao Ling and Lu Guang exchanged glances but knew they couldn’t stop him. So, they followed, resigned. At least the day had been peaceful… for what their shopping trips usually were.

☀️🛍️☀️

Back at the shop, they dropped their bags and collapsed into their seats. Cheng Xiaoshi looked satisfied with his purchases, Qiao Ling seemed happy with her bag, and Lu Guang… well, he just looked relieved that it hadn’t been another completely chaotic day.

—Well, that wasn’t so bad —Qiao Ling said, sitting down and inspecting her new bag.

—At least there was no drama today —Lu Guang commented.

—That’s because it was all perfectly planned. —Cheng Xiaoshi smirked, dropping his bag onto the table.

—Sure, Xiaoshi. We totally believe you.

A few hours passed, and with a mischievous smile, Cheng Xiaoshi walked over to the table where Lu Guang was reviewing some finances. He had been waiting for the perfect moment to give him something, and now was the time.

—Hey, Lu Guang.

Lu Guang looked up, uninterested.

—What is it?

Cheng Xiaoshi pulled a small bag from his backpack and placed it in front of him without saying a word.

Lu Guang eyed the bag with a hint of confusion.

—What’s this?

—Open it.

Skeptical, Lu Guang opened the bag and found a small keychain shaped like a vintage toy camera—perfect to hang on his backpack. The camera had miniature details, designed in an old-fashioned style, but it was well-crafted, almost like a souvenir.

—This? —Lu Guang asked, staring at the keychain, unsure of what to think.

Cheng Xiaoshi crossed his arms, his grin widening.

—Yeah, I thought it’d suit your style. And I know you like cameras, even if you don’t say it much.

Lu Guang was silent for a moment, examining the keychain. Qiao Ling, who had been watching from a distance, stepped closer with a smile.

—Don’t keep him waiting, Lu Guang. I think you like it.

Lu Guang looked at the keychain again, and for the first time that day, a small smile appeared on his face.

—Thanks, Cheng Xiaoshi.

—Yes! I knew you’d like it. Now you can hang it wherever you want.

Qiao Ling, amused, watched Lu Guang closely.

—Wow! I never thought I’d see Lu Guang smiling over something so simple!

Lu Guang just shook his head, but the slight shine in his eyes didn’t go unnoticed.

—It’s just a silly thing. I don’t need—

—It’s not silly! —Cheng Xiaoshi interrupted—. It’s a gift because… well, just because.

Lu Guang, slightly embarrassed, couldn’t help but keep the small smile as he looked at the keychain.

—Thanks. Really.

And in that moment, Cheng Xiaoshi felt a strange satisfaction seeing that expression on Lu Guang’s face. It wasn’t much, but somehow, a small gesture had managed to break through his usual indifference.

☀️🛍️☀️

Author's note: The truth is that making these chapters fills me with joy. I really love the dynamic between the three of them in the series. I love capturing them in different places and actions. Thanks to the people who support the series and reblog it, I'm glad to know that you like it as much as I do ❤️✨.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 7: A Movie Night

The rain softly tapped against the windows of Time Photo Studio. It was a quiet night—no clients, no urgent tasks. Just the three of them, sitting in the shop’s small living area, trying to decide what movie to watch.

—Let’s watch an action movie! Explosions, fights, car chases—

—No —Lu Guang interrupted without even looking up.

Cheng Xiaoshi turned to Qiao Ling with puppy eyes.

—See how he ruins all the fun?

Qiao Ling patted his head as if comforting a child.

—Relax, Xiaoshi. We haven’t decided yet.

—We should watch something calm —Lu Guang suggested—. A movie that won’t make us lose brain cells.

—Hey! My action movies have plots too.

—That’s debatable.

—Qiao Ling, say something!

She just smiled, enjoying their bickering.

—Well, how about a comedy? Something that’ll make us laugh.

—That doesn’t sound bad —Lu Guang agreed.

—Ugh, but I wanted explosions…

Still grumbling, Cheng Xiaoshi settled into the couch with a bowl of popcorn. Qiao Ling sat beside him, while Lu Guang took the other end, making sure to keep a safe distance from the popcorn to avoid getting showered in crumbs.

The movie started, and for a while, there was nothing but laughter. Qiao Ling chuckled at every silly joke, Cheng Xiaoshi rolled around on the couch in exaggerated fits of laughter, and though Lu Guang was more reserved, more than once, a smile slipped onto his face.

Halfway through the movie, Cheng Xiaoshi slowly leaned toward Qiao Ling until he rested his head on her shoulder.

—Hey… —she protested.

—Shhh… this is the perfect position…

Qiao Ling sighed but let him be.

A few minutes later, Cheng Xiaoshi started nodding off and, without realizing it, ended up leaning his other half onto Lu Guang.

Lu Guang frowned.

—Seriously?

Qiao Ling glanced at the scene and grinned.

—I think this is his natural state: annoying and asleep.

—I’m going to push him onto the floor.

—No, you won’t.

Lu Guang sighed and resigned himself. If he pushed him off, Cheng Xiaoshi would probably wake up whining and make even more noise.

The movie ended, but neither of them moved to avoid waking Cheng Xiaoshi.

—It’s rare to see him this peaceful —Qiao Ling murmured.

—Too rare —Lu Guang agreed.

They sat in silence for a moment, the screen now black, the rain softly falling outside.

—It’s not so bad, is it? —Qiao Ling suddenly asked.

—What isn’t?

—This. The three of us.

Lu Guang looked at her for a second before glancing at Cheng Xiaoshi, who was peacefully sleeping between them.

—No. It’s not so bad.

Qiao Ling smiled, and with that, she stayed quiet.

The rain kept falling, but inside the shop, everything was at peace.

[egoitsharu]

Chapter 6: Coffee and Comfortable Silences

It was a quiet afternoon at Time Photo Studio. Qiao Ling was flipping through some magazines at the counter while Lu Guang read a book. Cheng Xiaoshi had gone out on a “super impossible mission,” leaving the shop in an unusual silence.

After a while, Qiao Ling stretched and set the magazine aside.

—I'm going to buy coffee. Do you want one?

Lu Guang lifted his gaze from the book.

—Black, no sugar.

—Why am I not surprised?

Qiao Ling grabbed her bag and left, returning a few minutes later with two cups in hand. She handed one to Lu Guang, who took it without taking his eyes off his reading.

—Thanks.

They sat by the window, watching as a light rain began to fall outside.

—It's weird having the shop this quiet —Qiao Ling commented after taking a sip of her coffee—. When Cheng Xiaoshi is here, there's always some kind of chaos.

—Yeah, but it’s nice to have some peace once in a while.

Qiao Ling chuckled softly.

—You know it won’t last long.

Lu Guang nodded, as if already mentally preparing for Cheng Xiaoshi’s next mess.

They kept drinking their coffee in silence, but it wasn’t awkward. Just a quiet moment shared between two people who, even without saying much, understood each other’s presence.

After a while, Qiao Ling rested her chin on her hand and looked at Lu Guang curiously.

—I’ve always wondered… how do you put up with Cheng Xiaoshi?

Lu Guang raised an eyebrow.

—Put up with him?

—Yeah. I mean, I love him, but sometimes he drives me crazy. And you’re so… calm.

Lu Guang thought about his answer for a moment before shrugging.

—I guess I got used to it.

Qiao Ling stared at him.

—No, it’s not just habit. You’re not fooling me, Lu Guang.

Lu Guang sighed.

—It’s not something I think about too much. He’s just… there.

Qiao Ling smiled in satisfaction.

—Aha. I knew it.

—Knew what?

—That, even if you act indifferent, you care more than you admit.

Lu Guang took a sip of his coffee calmly.

—And what about it?

Qiao Ling let out a small laugh.

—Nothing. I just like reminding you.

They fell into silence again, but this time, there was a sense of understanding between them.

The shop door swung open, and Cheng Xiaoshi walked in, soaking wet, grumbling about the rain.

—Hey! Why didn’t you tell me it was raining?!

Qiao Ling and Lu Guang exchanged a look.

—We would have if you had checked your phone —Lu Guang said.

—Who checks their phone when they’re on a mission?

—Buying snacks is a mission? —Qiao Ling asked, crossing her arms.

—For me, yes.

Qiao Ling sighed but smiled, while Lu Guang just shook his head.

The silence was over, but the coffee was still warm.

And somehow, everything was just as it should be.