Green plums cannot become lovers.

"Carrots are nutritious! Didn't Xiao Ai say we should maintain our vitamin intake?"

Listening to their conversation, An and Asuka couldn't help but smile. This kind of everyday life, ordinary yet warm, was something he wanted to protect no matter what.

"I'll be back for dinner tonight, but it might be a bit late. You guys eat first."

After giving the girl a couple of reminders, An and Asuka took Hoshino Ai out the door.

The office door closed gently behind An and Asuka, shutting out some of the noise from the corridor. The warm, bright light in Akane's office perfectly complemented the slightly tired yet still gentle smile on her face.

In front of her were several relatively concise documents and an open notebook containing her handwritten thoughts and plans.

"Flying Bird, where's Ai?"

"Xiao Ai went to the practice room," An and Asuka replied helplessly. She was supposed to come with them, but she went to practice instead.

However, this also shows that the girl trusted him.

"I see, alright then." Akane Akasaka didn't mind and went straight to the point, gesturing for An and Asuka to look at the documents on the table. "I called you here today to discuss Ai's development direction for the next six months or so. She trusts you, so your opinion is very important."

An and Asuka relaxed slightly and picked up the top document. It was a document titled "Hoshino Ai: Draft Plan for Phased Growth and Brand Building," spanning from April to September, focusing on the core objectives of "consolidating the foundation, establishing an image, and steady growth."

The content was indeed much more restrained than I had imagined:

In terms of music, the plan is to release the first digital single in June, interspersed with 2-3 performances on major music programs, with a frequency of 1-2 times per month, and to try to record in a concentrated manner.

In terms of media exposure, she is cautious in choosing media interviews, preferring music-related and youth culture publications or programs, aiming to share her understanding of music and her work as a student's daily life balance, rather than to exploit her privacy.

There's also a special project... Akane Kousaka circled an invitation to be a short-term guest DJ for a radio program.

This is a music-sharing radio program that has a great reputation among young people. It is held once a week for half an hour each time. It mainly consists of phone calls, sharing songs, and reading letters. The workload is low, but it can showcase your voice and personality.

Finally, regarding academics, the document clearly states that all work arrangements will prioritize the school schedule, with complete rest during exam periods. Weekends will generally only be scheduled for one workday to ensure at least one full day of rest. Akane Akasaka even added a note in red pen: "Maintain communication with the school to ensure academic support."

An and Asuka looked at the proposal in their hands. This was not the kind of fanatical proposal that squeezed out short-term value. It was more like a carefully cultivated growth plan.

"Looks promising, doesn't it?" Akane Akasaka leaned back in her chair, her tone unusually gentle. "Ai is a good prospect, but she's also a younger sister I've watched grow up. I've seen far too many examples of fleeting fame in this industry. They either overwork themselves and fall rapidly, or they are quickly forgotten after being over-exploited."

What I want isn't instant fame, but for her to steadily build her career, singing until she's twenty, thirty, or even older. At her age, accumulating experience, refining her work, and establishing genuine connections with audiences who resonate with her are far more important than simply relying on her looks and riding the wave of popularity.

She paused, then pointed to the "Radio DJ" category: "For example, this one doesn't require glamorous stage makeup or intense dancing. It's just sitting and chatting, sharing her favorite music, and even occasionally reading about the troubles of her peers. This allows her to relax and lets her fans see a more three-dimensional and approachable Xiao Ai. What do you think?"

“Many idols of the same age participate in this radio station, and Xiao Ai may be able to learn a lot from her peers.”

An and Asuka nodded seriously: "This arrangement is very good. Xiao Ai is actually a good listener, and her voice is suitable for radio. The pressure won't be too great, and she can maintain the exposure of her voice."

“I’m glad you understand,” Akane Akasaka said with relief. “As for the reality show…” She turned to another page, which contained a brief introduction to the program “Daily Life of Idols.” “The production team did send an invitation, and the terms they offered were quite good.”

An and Asuka's hearts skipped a beat.

Akane Akasaka looked at him and smiled: "But I declined for now. The reason is simple—what Ai needs right now is not all-encompassing, no-holds-barred exposure, especially not the kind of 'daily life' that might deliberately create conflict and amplify emotions for the sake of effect."

She's just starting out; her focus should be on school and basic training. Exposing her entirely to the scrutiny of reality TV cameras too early won't help her develop a stable sense of self and clear personal boundaries.

This decision relieved An and Asuka, but also surprised them: "You refused? I thought..."

"Did you think I would seize every opportunity for exposure?" Akane Akasaka shook her head. "Asuka, I am the producer, but first and foremost, I am your Akane-nee. I know what is truly beneficial for Ai at this stage. This program, perhaps in a year or two, when she is more mature and stronger, can be one of the options for expanding her influence. But now, it is too early."

She closed the folder and looked sincerely at An and Asuka: "I called you here not only to reassure you about these arrangements, but more importantly, to hope that you can continue to play your irreplaceable role."

It's not about appearing in front of the camera, but about being there for her off-camera, when she feels tired, confused, or stressed—being the person who gives her the most comfort and strength. Your home, the natural and warm atmosphere among the four of you, is the best recharging station and safe haven for her. Protecting that atmosphere will support her going further than appearing on any TV show.

An and Asuka finally understood Akane's deeper meaning. She was not only planning Ai's career, but also carefully protecting the core of their lives and their emotional connection.

“I understand, Sister Zhu Yin.” His voice was firm and warm. “We will always support each other. We will try our best to balance our studies, life, music, and this family.”

“That’s right.” Akane Akasaka stood up, walked to the window, and looked at the dazzling night view outside. “Occasionally, there may be unavoidable busy periods, or times when she needs to put in extra effort. At those times, I’ll need you to help me both encourage her to push forward and firmly hold her back, reminding her to rest. Sometimes, we might need to take turns being the ‘bad guy’.”

“I know what to do.” An and Asuka also stood up.

"Alright, business's done." Akane Kousaka turned around, her expression relaxing again. "Go check on Ai and remind her not to practice too late. You all have school tomorrow. Oh, by the way, I'll leave the composition of the title track to you. You need to figure out the style; it has to suit her and touch people's hearts. I have faith in your abilities."

"I will do my best."

Leaving the office, An and Asuka felt the weight on their shoulders not from pressure, but from a sense of responsibility for being trusted and a clear sense of direction. Akane Akasaka had paved a path for them that might be slower, but was more secure and more humane.

The music had stopped in the practice room. Hoshino Ai was sitting on the floor, resting against the mirror, sipping water from a bottle. She immediately smiled when she saw An and Asuka.

"Did you finish talking with Sister Zhu Yin? Did she assign you a ton of work?" She stuck out her tongue, seemingly prepared to hear "bad news."

An and Asuka sat down beside her, tucking a few stray strands of her hair behind her ear: "Quite the opposite. Sister Zhu Yin has planned a very comfortable schedule for you. Mainly, you'll release a single, appear on a few important music programs, and have a very interesting radio DJ job."

He briefly reiterated Akane Akasaka's core project plan, emphasizing in particular the principles of prioritizing academics and ensuring adequate rest, as well as her decision to decline a reality show appearance.

Hoshino Ai listened, her eyes slowly widening, the light from the overhead lamp reflecting in her purple pupils, sparkling brightly. "A radio DJ? That sounds interesting! And... not so tiring."

She whispered, then added with some worry, "But, isn't this too slow? Sister Zhu Yin has such high expectations of me..."

"Sister Zhu Yin's hope is that you can stand on the stage for a long time and stay healthy, singing the songs you want to sing." An Hefei held her hand, her palm warm. "She doesn't want you to become a firework that burns too fast and then goes out. She said that accumulation and growth are more important."

Hoshino Ai gripped his hand tightly and nodded vigorously, "Yes! I understand." She rested her head on An and Asuka's shoulders and whispered, "With Akane-nee's planning and Asuka and the others by my side, I feel... so at ease. It's like I have the confidence to do anything."

"That's good." An and Asuka looked at their reflections nestled together in the mirror. "Oh, right, Sister Zhuyin also gave me a task."

"Ok?"

"I wrote the title track for the new single." He smiled. "So, I'll probably be listening to your thoughts on the songs more often from now on, my idol."

Hoshino Ai immediately sat up straight, her face beaming with a radiance more genuine and genuine than any smile she had ever shown on stage: "Really? That's wonderful! I want to sing the song written by Asuka!"

Her joy was almost overflowing; it was a direct expression of trust and expectation in their mutual understanding and talent.

“But now, it’s time for the idol to go home for dinner.” An and Asuka laughed and pulled her up. “Marina sent a message saying that there’s stew that you like tonight. If you go too late, she and Shizuka will eat it all.”

"Ah! Let's hurry!"

The two left the practice room, their footsteps echoing in the empty corridor. The corridor windows reflected the vibrant Tokyo nightscape, but at that moment, their hearts were filled only with anticipation for the warm lights of home and the smiles of their companions.

Volume 1: Chapter 166 The Senior with Long Black Hair

Since Xiao Ai quickly rose to fame as an idol, An and Fei Niao's peaceful campus life has been disrupted, with some sweet troubles added.

The most direct manifestation of this was that significantly more people approached him during breaks. Whether from his own class or other classes, classmates he knew or only vaguely recognized would always approach him with tentative or pleading expressions.

"Anhe-kun, I heard you and Hoshino-kun are very close... Could you please pass this on to her for me?" Sometimes it's a carefully decorated envelope, sometimes it's a cutely wrapped little gift, and the eyes that flicker with the eagerness and anxiety unique to adolescence.

An and Asuka's response to this remained consistent: a gentle yet firm refusal. It wasn't indifference, but rather a clear understanding of their role—they were not messengers, and had no intention of interfering in the transmission of others' emotions.

On a deeper level, he harbored a protective instinct: Xiao Ai was only fifteen, just starting high school, with a pure heart, yet she was on the fringes of the complex entertainment industry. He didn't want her to be drawn into these troubles too early and passively.

Of course, if one day Xiao Ai develops genuine feelings for him, he will understand and respect that. But for now, his primary responsibility is to help her smoothly navigate this period of adjustment under the sudden spotlight.

After politely declining several shy requests from classmates once again, the lunch break bell rang like a savior. An and Asuka quietly avoided the crowd, climbed the steps, and set their sights on the rooftop of the teaching building.

Recently, Ai has been quite the star, attracting many curious classmates to Marina and Shizuka as well. He himself needs a moment alone to catch his breath and clear his mind.

Pushing open the heavy iron gate, a breeze carrying the scent of early summer rushed towards him. To his slight surprise, the rooftop wasn't empty. A figure sat on a bench against the wall in the distance. An and Asuka glanced at it discreetly, making no attempt to disturb it, and walked to the railing on the other side, where the view was more open, and found a clean cement platform to sit down.

From here, you can see the entire campus at midday: figures running on the playground, students gathered in twos and threes under the shade of the trees in the courtyard, and traffic flowing in the distance... The May sky is clear and bright, with a few wisps of clouds casually painted on the azure canvas.

A gentle breeze caressed my face, carrying the faint sounds of noise from downstairs, which only served to accentuate the tranquility here. This long-awaited moment of solitude allowed my tense nerves to slowly relax.

He opened the bento box that Shizuka had prepared, and the aroma of the food and the familiar combination brought him comfort. The rooftop was quiet, with only the soft whisper of the wind in his ears.

Suddenly, a slightly stronger gust of wind swept by, bringing with it the rustling sound of papers turning over. An and Asuka felt something touch their feet, and looking down, they saw several scattered pages of manuscript paper. He bent down to pick them up; the papers were covered with densely packed handwritten text, the handwriting neat and strong. After quickly skimming through a few lines, the content was clearly a fragment from a novel, written in a delicate style, carrying a unique literary flair.

He subconsciously looked up towards the bench. The classmate he didn't recognize was still sitting there, looking in his direction, but hadn't gotten up. There seemed to be a thick stack of manuscripts on her lap.

An and Asuka proactively held up the paper in their hands and raised their voices to ask, "Excuse me, did you drop this?"

"Hmm." The other person nodded, their voice carried on the wind, clear but flat, still showing no intention of coming closer.

An and Asuka had no choice but to get up and walk towards the bench with the few pages of paper. As they got closer, they could see the other person clearly—a girl wearing a dark blue suit jacket typical of second-year high school students.

Her waist-length, jet-black hair cascaded down like a waterfall, the ends swaying gently in the breeze. Her delicate features, fair skin, and wine-red eyes that seemed to be shrouded in a hazy mist gave her a beauty that combined intellect and aloofness.

An and Asuka immediately recognized her—Kasumigaoka Utaha. This upperclassman was quite famous at Toyonosaki Academy.

Not long after the start of the semester, her name and deeds had frequently reached his ears: rumors of her being a "genius beauty," "top student in the grade," and "mysterious writer," and some people even circulated her photos privately. He just never expected to meet her on the rooftop on such an ordinary afternoon.

"Kasumigaoka-senpai, here's your manuscript."

An and Asuka handed the paper back.

“…Thank you.” Kasumigaoka Utaha accepted it, her voice low. Her gaze lingered on his face for a moment before shifting back to the manuscript on her lap.

An and Asuka didn't leave immediately. Perhaps out of an instinctive interest in writing, or perhaps because of the atmosphere on the rooftop, he asked with a touch of natural curiosity, "Is this the novel that Senior is writing?"

"Hmm." A brief reply, devoid of emotion.

Does it have a name?

Kasumigaoka Utaha paused for a moment, her slender fingers unconsciously stroking the edge of the manuscript paper. She seemed hesitant, but still answered softly, "...Love Metronome."

"May I take a look?" An and Asuka asked directly, only realizing how abrupt it was as soon as the words left their mouths, since the other party was a senior they were meeting for the first time.

He then added, "If it doesn't work, that's fine too. I was the one who was being presumptuous."

Kasumigaoka Utaha raised her wine-red eyes and looked at him quietly for a few seconds. Just when An and Asuka thought they would be politely rejected, she nodded slightly and handed him the thicker stack of manuscripts in her hand.

"can."

An and Asuka were somewhat surprised, thanked them, and accepted the gift. The title page at the top read: "Love Metronome, Volume Two".

As expected, it was a light novel with a romance theme. He simply sat down at the other end of the bench and continued to enjoy his lunch while carefully flipping through the pages.

Since Shizuka Kuze is a novelist, An and Asuka are no strangers to light novels, and can even be considered quite knowledgeable about them. The manuscript in their hands, judging solely from the fluency of the writing, the subtlety of the rhetoric, and the creation of the atmosphere, is of an extremely high standard, and in some aspects even shows more maturity and sophistication than Shizuka's earlier works.

But perhaps it's a case of "love me, love my dog," or perhaps it's just personal preference, but he always felt that in terms of the gripping nature of the plot and the emotional resonance of the characters, it seemed to lack the power to strike a chord with people compared to the delicate emotions that arise from the warm everyday life in Shizuka's works.

Kasumigaoka Utaha waited silently to the side, her gaze sometimes drifting into the distance, and sometimes landing on the first-year junior who had suddenly barged into her "secret base".

Of course she recognized him.

An and Asuka, top of the entrance exam, once again ranked first in the monthly exam, outstanding in appearance, and always surrounded by three equally eye-catching beautiful girls... Even someone like her who doesn't pay much attention to campus gossip can't help but hear bits and pieces of this information.

She had met him by chance and admitted that he did have a handsome and refreshing appearance, but for her, physical attractiveness was far less important than his inner talent and wisdom.

I never expected that I would meet him in this way on my usual solitary afternoon on the rooftop. What I didn't expect was that this junior would be so... outgoing.

He took the initiative to strike up a conversation and even asked to read the unpublished manuscript of the second volume.

Her agreement stemmed not only from gratitude for his return of the manuscript, but also from a deeper, unspoken expectation—she was struggling with creative block and self-doubt. The first volume of *Love Metronome* fell far short of expectations, and the editor's feedback was ambiguous.

She poured her heart and soul into revising the second volume, but she was increasingly losing confidence, as if trapped in a maze, unable to find a way out. She desperately needed a fresh perspective, one that might offer a different viewpoint, even if it was just a few words.

Just then, he appeared.

An and Asuka read quickly, but with focused concentration. Kasumigaoka Utaha could sense that he wasn't just skimming, but truly trying to understand the words and the story. This feeling of being taken seriously stirred a ripple in her tranquil heart.

About twenty minutes later, An and Asuka closed the last page of the manuscript, carefully tidied it up, and handed it back to Kasumigaoka Utaha.

"I've finished reading it," he said calmly.

Kasumigaoka Utaha's heart involuntarily tightened, her fingertips clenching slightly.

"Kasumigaoka-senpai's writing is outstanding," Anwa Asuka said sincerely, looking directly at her. "The reading experience is very smooth, and the scene descriptions and character psychology are particularly delicate, which can immerse the reader in the story."

This was the prelude; Kasumigaoka Utaha keenly sensed the turning point to come.

“But…” An and Asuka carefully chose their words, trying to make their opinions sound more like a discussion than a judgment, “Perhaps… the emotions and plot development of the story could be bolder and more unrestrained?”

He saw Kasumigaoka Utaha's wine-red eyes widen suddenly, and realizing that his comments might have been too direct and abstract, he quickly added, "Ah, this is just my personal, superficial feeling. Besides, I haven't read the first volume, so my understanding of the overall setting and character relationships is limited. It might be nonsense, so please don't take it to heart, Senpai."

Kasumigaoka Utaha didn't respond immediately. She lowered her head, her long, wine-red hair slipping from her shoulders and partially obscuring her face. Her slender fingers gripped the stack of manuscripts tightly, her knuckles even turning slightly white.

The wind on the rooftop seemed to quiet down for a moment.

Just as An and Asuka thought their rash remarks had angered the senior known for her "aloof and sharp tongue," and were about to apologize again and leave, Kasumigaoka Utaha suddenly looked up.

“Be bolder…go a little more bold?” She repeated the words softly, her wine-red eyes no longer misty, but gleaming with a sharp, focused light, as if trying to pierce through the surface of An and Asuka's words and reach their core. “What exactly do you mean? The logic of the characters' actions? The threshold for emotional outbursts? Or…the overall ‘safe zone’ of the story?”

Her questioning was direct and urgent, even carrying a researcher's persistence. This reaction surprised An and Asuka, and made him realize that she wasn't just listening perfunctorily, but was genuinely considering his opinion.

He sat up straight and carefully organized his thoughts. Thanks to his long-term companionship with Shizuka in discussing creative processes, as well as his own reflections on the balance between emotional expression and structure in music composition, he was not without insights.

“Perhaps… both?” An and Asuka tried to organize their thoughts. “For example, the female protagonist Sayuka’s feelings for the male protagonist are described in a very delicate way, with each step building upon the previous one and the logic being very clear.”

But sometimes, isn't it... too 'clear' and too 'reasonable'? In reality, the budding of affection is often accompanied by more hesitation, clumsiness, and even some seemingly 'irrational' impulses.

While understanding why a character does something, readers might also anticipate moments of "knowing it's wrong but unable to resist"? That would make the character more vivid and the emotional impact more direct.

He paused, observing Kasumigaoka Utaha's expression. She listened intently, her brows slightly furrowed, as if she were rapidly processing and processing the information.

“There’s also the plot progression,” An and Asuka continued. “The senior set up several key conflict points and emotional sublimation scenes, all of which were ingeniously conceived. But what I felt was that before approaching that ‘boiling point,’ there was a little too much foreshadowing and detours. The pacing felt like… cautiously approaching, and then slightly restraining the force at the edge of explosion.”

Perhaps we could try making some plot twists more unexpected, or making the character choices bolder and more unpredictable, even if it brings a little 'risk'?

The "risk" he referred to was the possibility of deviating from some readers' expectations or making the character temporarily "unlikable." But truly moving stories often require the courage to touch these areas.