The Villains All Fell in Love with Me After Rebirth : Chapter 78 - Gallery
Chapter 78: Gallery
Wen Yan stared at the painting before him in disbelief.
In the lower right corner of the painting was the edge of a white rooftop. From that angle, looking up, the vast and boundless starry sky stretched infinitely, with nine beautiful stars hanging in the deep expanse…
This familiar scene—Wen Yan could never forget it.
Countless times, he had stood quietly in the shadows, watching that boy who would daydream on the rooftop. When no one was around, the boy loved lying there, hands behind his head, gazing blankly at the night sky—lonely and solitary, as if he didn’t belong to this world.
The boy looked at the stars. And he… watched him.
This angle, this image—aside from that boy who loved lying on the rooftop to gaze at the stars, there was no other possibility.
It was as if something beyond his control was guiding him. Wen Yan's body moved on its own, step by step, until his gaze slowly lowered to the signature at the bottom of the painting— Class 2, Ji Ling.
In that instant, he almost lost the ability to think. The crowd bustled around him, voices rising and falling, but in his eyes, there was only that painting. Only that name.
So, you… are in this world too?
Right here, by my side?
All his life, fate had never favored him. When he had finally grown tired of struggling, tired of fighting against destiny—suddenly, a ray of light fell into his world, whispering to him that perhaps, he wasn’t so hopeless after all.
That he could still try one more time.
That he, too, had the right to hope.
“Ji Ling, come over here for a second.”
A crisp, clear female voice rang out behind Wen Yan.
Ahead, in the crowd, a boy wearing a white T-shirt and gray pants turned his head. His clean, delicate features softened into a smile as he responded, “Coming.”
Ji Ling walked toward Ning Kehan. Because so many people were around, he didn’t pay attention to anyone else. But halfway there, someone suddenly grabbed his wrist, causing him to halt in surprise. He turned his head, confused—And was met with a handsome, gentle face.
Ji Ling froze. “Senior Yu?”
Wen Yan stared at him intently, his lips trembling slightly.
Ji Ling met his deep, dark, unreadable gaze, utterly baffled. He felt a little uneasy under such scrutiny. He knew this Senior Yu, but Senior Yu shouldn’t know him… right? So why was he holding onto him?
Do you need something from me?” Ji Ling smiled, puzzled.
Wen Yan watched as the boy smiled brightly at him. His beautiful eyes curved slightly, clear and pure, filled with curiosity and a bit of confusion. He looked happy here, as if this world had treated him well. In those eyes, there was no trace of sorrow—no scars left from the past, as if none of it had ever happened.
As if he had always belonged to this world.
A fleeting doubt passed through Wen Yan’s mind. But in the next moment, the sheer joy of this reunion filled his chest, leaving no room for deeper thoughts. He was simply overjoyed—so, so glad that the boy was safe and happy in this world.
His lips parted slightly, and in a hoarse voice, he whispered, “I—”
Before he could say more, Ning Kehan had already walked over. She looked at Wen Yan and smiled. “Isn’t this Senior Yu? You know Ji Ling?”
Ning Kehan had called Ji Ling over for something, only to find that Wen Yan had stopped him midway. Curious, she approached. She wasn’t particularly familiar with Yu Wenyan, but they knew of each other. Everyone in their circle was aware that he was the neglected illegitimate son of the Yu family.
But how did Yu Wenyan know Ji Ling? The two should have had no connection.
Wen Yan shifted his gaze slightly, glancing at Ning Kehan.
She was the eldest daughter of the Ning family. Back when he first entered school, Han Yun had told Yu Wenyan that he should try to win her over while he had the chance. But Wen Yan, weighed down by his own inferiority, never acted on it. After Wen Yan’s arrival, he found the idea laughable and never gave it a second thought. He responded calmly, “Yes.”
Ji Ling was shocked. “You know me?”
Ning Kehan also looked at Wen Yan suspiciously.
In that moment, Wen Yan made a decision. Even if he wanted to reunite with his young master, now was not the right time.
Slowly, he released his grip, carefully concealing his emotions behind a perfect mask. With a polite smile, he said, “I saw your painting earlier. It had a certain charm to it, so I took note of the artist’s name.”
Ji Ling and Ning Kehan both suddenly understood. So, he had only learned Ji Ling’s name from the painting. But that didn’t really count as ‘knowing’ him, did it?
At most, he had simply recognized the name.
Wen Yan smiled warmly at Ji Ling, his black eyes deep and serious. Slowly, he said, “But that wasn’t very formal. So, I’d like to properly introduce myself—my name is Yu Wenyan.”
Ji Ling met his serious gaze and hesitated for a moment. Wasn’t this just a casual introduction between classmates? Why did he sound so solemn? And why did he… feel like this senior reminded him of another Wen Yan? As he stared at this senior’s gentle expression, nearly identical to the one in his memories, he couldn’t help but let his thoughts wander. His face flushed slightly. “H-Hello, I’m Ji Ling.”
Damn it. He wasn’t supposed to be the type to overthink things. Why did everyone lately remind him of people from that world?
Aside from that ridiculous book world, where else would you find so many emotionally unstable, obsessive romantics?!
Wen Yan watched as Ji Ling grew slightly shy and awkward, the corners of his lips lifting ever so slightly. A faint warmth seemed to brush over his cold heart. The boy was probably thinking of someone because of their shared name, wasn’t he? But what he didn’t know—was that the very person he was thinking of… was standing right before him.
He, too, existed in this world.
Fortunately, I met you again.
This world has no conflicts, no cruel hierarchy, only the ordinary you and me. This time, I will still stay by your side and accompany you.
Thank you for giving my life meaning once more.
Ning Kehan glanced at Yu Wenyuan and said, “If senior has nothing else, I'll be taking Ji Ling with me. We still need his help over there.”
Wen Yan didn't respond, his gaze fixed on Ji Ling.
Ji Ling smiled shyly. “Senior Yu, I'll be going then.”
Wen Yan nodded, smiling at him, his voice soft and hoarse. “Alright.”
Now that I’ve found you, I have enough patience to slowly approach you again.
He watched as the boy left with light steps, the lively voices of students filling the air, making the world noisy once more.
After a long while, Wenyuan withdrew his gaze, took a few steps back, and bent down to pick up a book that had fallen to the ground.
His deep, narrow black eyes were filled with tenderness, obsession, and determination.
………………
Ji Ling and Ning Kehan went to the other side to help greet the students. By the time he finished and looked back, Yu Wenyan was already gone.
Ji Ling scratched his head. Now, this was normal. Senior Yu had only talked to him because of the painting. It wasn’t like that paranoid, sickly Speaker—there was no way he’d be standing there waiting for him!
He was really overthinking things!
Ji Ling quickly put the small encounter behind him and got back to work.
As the sky darkened, Ning Yu arrived.
Today, he wore a clean and casual outfit, paired with white canvas shoes. He looked just like an ordinary university student. But with his sharp, handsome features and long, straight legs, even in simple attire and a relaxed posture, he still stood out, drawing attention from those around him. Many girls whispered among themselves, guessing which department the good-looking senior was from. It was unthinkable that someone this attractive had gone unnoticed before—was he from another school?
Ning Kehan was a little surprised. She looked at Ning Yu, then at Ji Ling, feeling conflicted.
Wang Yixin, Zheng Lin, and Chen Ming also spotted Ning Yu. The straightforward guys broke into excited smiles, running over enthusiastically. “Brother Ning! What brings you here?!”
Ning Yu smiled. “I heard you guys had an event today. I had some free time, so I stopped by to take a look.”
Wang Yixin and the others were overjoyed. “Brother Ning, we’re so happy you came!”
“It’s our honor to have you here!”
“Come check out our work!”
“The paintings might not be great, don’t laugh at us, haha…”
Ning Kehan: How did you know we had an event? I never told you!!!
But the proud and popular Miss Ning was completely sidelined as soon as Ning Yu arrived. No one was paying attention to her anymore. She could only watch those guys fawning over Ning Yu, letting out a cold chuckle in her heart: Ha, scheming.
Ning Yu immediately spotted Ji Ling. Unlike the others, Ji Ling didn’t greet him enthusiastically or chatter excitedly. He simply smiled shyly in welcome and continued with his work. Ning Yu didn’t go over either, only giving a brief greeting before shifting his attention to the paintings.
And right away, he saw that starry sky.
It was a depiction of the Emperor Star. The nine beautiful stars were actually satellites suspended above it—satellites that, in the final moments, nearly destroyed the planet, causing massive casualties.
But people in this world didn’t know that. They only saw its beauty, unaware of the destruction behind it.
Ning Yu had already recognized Ji Ling the first time they met, but at this moment, all doubt disappeared. Because he had been mentally prepared, his expression remained calm, showing no unusual reaction.
Before long, he turned to Wang Yixin and the others with a smile. “You guys worked hard today. Let me treat you to a meal.”
The group was ecstatic, cheering, “Thank you, Brother Ning!”
Ji Ling didn’t have time to overthink it before Zheng Lin grabbed him along.
After a moment’s hesitation, he figured—why not? With so many people, what was there to be afraid of?
Since there were quite a few students, they booked three tables. Ji Ling was just about to find an inconspicuous spot when Ning Yu suddenly looked at him, pointed to the seat beside him, and smiled. “Sit here.”
Ji Ling hesitated. “…I can sit over there.”
Ning Yu’s smile remained calm. His gaze was clear and gentle as he said, “I admire your artwork and have some things I'd like to ask you. Besides, does it really make a difference where you sit?”
Ji Ling fell into deep thought. Ning Yu’s words made it seem like refusing would make him look guilty. After a brief hesitation, he eventually sat down.
Ning Kehan’s eyes darted around, and she was just about to sit beside Ji Ling when Ning Yu raised his head and smiled. “Girls should sit at the other table. It won’t be convenient with us drinking here.”
It’s just drinking! Who’s afraid of who?!
Ning Kehan was internally fuming. But when she met Ning Yu’s warning gaze, she shuddered awake and forced a stiff smile. “Alright.”
Wang Yixin and the others were stunned. This was the first time they’d seen Miss Ning so obedient. It seemed Ning Yu really held a high position in the Ning family!
Ji Ling suddenly started feeling uneasy again. Ning Yu was clearly trying to separate him from Ning Kehan. Did he still suspect that he and Ning Kehan had a romantic relationship? This was a trap!
Ji Ling nearly teared up. He had never even dated a girl before, hadn’t even held hands with one! Why was he getting the overprotective parent treatment?!
Poor Ji Xiaoling felt terribly wronged.
Even so, he didn’t dare to act recklessly in front of the girl’s uncle. Sitting upright and proper, Ji Ling was as obedient as could be, though no one knew of the suffering in his heart.
Wang Yixin and the others, completely oblivious to the atmosphere, were beyond excited. They grabbed some beer and were about to start drinking with Ning Yu, even filling up a glass for Ji Ling.
Ji Ling: “…”
He was already an adult, so it wasn’t that he couldn’t drink. He simply didn’t like the taste of beer, and more importantly… this was definitely leading to him being forced to drink, right? Wouldn’t the ‘future nephew-in-law’ get special attention?
His alcohol tolerance wasn’t great. If he got drunk and embarrassed himself in front of Ning Yue, what would he do then?!
Ji Xiaoling was very anxious.
Ning Yu glanced sideways at Ji Ling’s troubled expression. He reached out naturally, took Ji Ling’s glass, and smiled at the group. “Ji Ling still has to take Ning Kehan home later. I’ll drink on his behalf.”
Everyone: “…”
The table fell silent for a few seconds before a chorus of agreement erupted. No one said anything outright, but their eyes shone with admiration as they looked at Ji Ling.
Wow, kid, not bad! When did you quietly win over the big brother-in-law? Not only is he not forcing you to drink, but he’s even drinking for you and making sure you can take his sister home! What kind of enviable treatment is this?
Well done! You’ve made us proud!
Ji Ling: “…”
No, no, no, that’s not it!
You’ve all misunderstood!
But if that wasn’t the case… then what was it? Ji Ling fell into deep thought, his brain freezing up. Could it be that Ning Yue actually approved of him and Ning Kehan and wasn’t planning to interfere? But… but he really had nothing going on with Ning Kehan!
If I tell you I don’t plan to pursue Ning Kehan, would you beat me up for not knowing what’s good for me? QAQ
Ji Ling was deeply worried and focused on eating in silence.
The meal continued in a lively atmosphere. By seven or eight o’clock, after several rounds of drinks, the gathering finally came to an end.
Ning Yu had an incredibly approachable demeanor. Even when surrounded by a bunch of rowdy young men, he remained relaxed and good-humored, drinking quite a lot. When the group left the restaurant, they all bid him farewell enthusiastically, until only Ning Yu and Ji Ling were left.
Ji Ling hesitated for a moment. Ning Yu had specifically said he should take Ning Kehan home. Even though he now understood that he had no feelings for her, wouldn’t it be bad to refuse? Maybe he should just take her home first and find a chance to clear things up?
Just then, Ning Kehan walked over. Seeing that Ning Yu had been drinking, she offered kindly, “Uncle, do you want me to drive you home?”
Ning Yu smiled and said, “No need. Ji Ling can take me home.”
Ji Ling:???
Didn’t you just say I should take Ning Kehan home?! When did that change to taking you home?!
Ning Kehan: “…”
Her uncle had an incredible alcohol tolerance—he could drink endlessly without getting drunk. A few beers were nothing to him. She had only offered to drive because drunk driving was illegal, not because she thought he wasn’t sober or was talking nonsense. So…
Ning Kehan sighed as she looked at Ji Ling, feeling a little melancholy. She had finally found a cute boy she liked, but her uncle had stepped in and stolen him away. But in the end, her feelings were too shallow—she couldn’t abandon wealth for love. Sorry, but she wouldn’t interfere in this mess. He was on his own!
Ning Kehan forced a smile, then turned and left.
Ji Ling: “...”
He looked at the man beside him, feeling that he really needed to clarify things. His face flushed slightly as he said hesitantly, “Didn’t you say I should take Ning Kehan home earlier?”
Ning Yu suddenly leaned in close. His dark eyes, slightly hazy from the alcohol, made his sharp, handsome features appear softer in the night. His husky voice carried a trace of amusement as he said, “Did I say that? I forgot.”
At such a close distance, the man’s scent—mixed with the faint smell of alcohol—washed over him.
He had really drunk a lot today.
And most of it had been for him. Thinking of that, Ji Ling’s tone softened unconsciously. “Mm… you did say that…”
Ning Yu lowered his gaze, watching him intently. His eyes narrowed slightly, and then, as if he had no strength left, he leaned against Ji Ling, his voice hoarse. “You take me home… Ning Kehan doesn’t need you to.”
Ji Ling didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Just now, Ning Kehan had offered to take you home, but you refused! Why does it have to be me?!
This is what you call drunken mischief, you know that?!
But there was no reasoning with a drunk person. After a moment of hesitation, Ji Ling sighed helplessly and obediently helped Ning Yu hail a cab.
Not long after, the car stopped in front of the villa from their last gathering.
Ji Ling paid the fare and struggled to help the taller man out of the car. Ning Yu was heavier than he looked.
Because they were so close, Ji Ling could feel his warm breath brushing against his ear, ticklish and unsettling. Suddenly, he thought of Ning Yu in that other world—of all the teasing and torment he had suffered at his hands. His face flushed red.
Damn it, what is this weird feeling?!
Thankfully, it was nighttime, so no one could see how hot his face had become.
Forcing himself to stop overthinking, Ji Ling helped Ning Yue to the door and turned to ask, “Where’s your key—”
Before he could finish, the man suddenly pressed him against the door, leaning in close. His deep, dark eyes held a complicated emotion.
Ji Ling’s heart skipped a beat, and he froze in place.
For a moment, it felt like he was back in that world.
It felt as if… Ning Yu was standing before him once again.
His entire body tensed with nervousness, his mind in complete chaos, unable to think. At that moment, he saw the man slowly approaching, lips slightly parted, and in a deep, pleasant voice that blended softly into the night, he said, “Your painting is beautiful.”
Ji Ling was momentarily stunned.
Ning Yu had actually wanted to ask one more question—since you were originally from this world, how did you end up in that world? How did you go there? And how did you come back?
There were countless questions in his heart, and he could have continued probing for answers, but in the end, he only said that one sentence.
Some things, after all, didn't need to be understood too clearly.
No matter why the boy came or why he left, the truth no longer mattered. What mattered was...
That we were able to meet again.
………………
A well-known local gallery was hosting an exhibition, featuring works from many emerging artists. The attendees were all well-dressed; apart from art enthusiasts, there were also several influential figures and a few foreign guests.
Brandon strolled through the gallery, absentmindedly glancing at the paintings on the walls.
That day, he had watched with his own eyes as Ji Ling was struck down by Jing Sui’s sword, ending the war with his own life. Even though the world had never been fair or kind to him, the young man had still wanted to protect everyone he could...
That day, he had watched as Jing Sui carried the boy’s lifeless body away. For the first time, he saw pain on that cold, indifferent man’s face.
So Jing Sui was capable of pain, after all.
Just as he himself felt that hollow emptiness in his heart, as if something was missing. From beginning to end, he had never even had the chance to express his feelings.
He had left the Emperor Star, stationed at the borders, fighting against Zerg day and night—doing what a soldier should do.
Protecting the world that the boy had sacrificed everything to defend.
That was probably the only thing he could do for him now.
“Hey, Brandon, what are you looking at?” A blond, blue-eyed man walked over with a smile. He was Brandon's friend in this world.
Brandon glanced at him expressionlessly, saying nothing.
After his death, he had arrived in this world, becoming an officer in the Country M’s military. He was currently on vacation in Country C. Originally, he was supposed to return home a few days ago, but a collector friend had dragged him along to this exhibition.
Brandon had no interest in such things. To him, they were far less useful than a single battle report.
White sighed—this guy was as rigid and boring as ever. Shrugging, he said, “Well, you go on looking. I'm going over there.”
With that, he left Brandon alone.
Brandon found the place noisy and dull, regretting attending such a tedious event. The more popular paintings had crowds gathered around them, but as he walked further inside, the area became much quieter.
As he passed by a particular wall, he casually glanced at one of the paintings—only for his pupils to suddenly contract. He froze in place, motionless.
He stood there so long, and his expression was so intense, that a staff member walked over and glanced at him curiously before smiling and introducing the piece. “Are you interested in learning more about these paintings?”
“Our director has always been keen on nurturing outstanding students and collaborates with local universities, so we sometimes showcase student works. These pieces here are all from highly talented students—perhaps a bit raw, but full of spirit. Take this painting, for instance. The way it portrays the starry sky is incredibly imaginative…”
Brandon stared at the small information plaque beneath the painting, his hands clenched tightly at his sides.
………………
In the distance, Mr. Shao, the gallery director, was accompanying an elegant, handsome middle-aged man.
The man had deep, well-defined features, brown hair, and brown eyes. He was dressed in a double-breasted dark suit, his hair meticulously combed back. His demeanor was refined and gentlemanly, with a perfectly curved smile on his lips.
Mr. Shao remained respectful at his side. This was Carlos Field, a noble from Country Y, heir to an old and prestigious lineage. Unlike those declining aristocrats, the Field family had deep roots and, though not widely publicized, wielded substantial influence over a renowned financial conglomerate.
Mr. Field owned famous galleries worldwide and had launched many of today’s most outstanding artists, holding considerable sway in the art world. Upon learning that Mr. Field was visiting the country for investment opportunities, Mr. Shao sought to build a connection with him, hoping to introduce more works to the international market. That was why he had invited him to this exhibition.
However, though Mr. Field appeared cultured and approachable, he was actually not easy to impress. If they couldn't present something truly captivating, persuading him would be nearly impossible.
Throughout their tour, the man's expression remained composed and indifferent, the slight curve of his lips never wavering. This left Mr. Shao somewhat disappointed.
They had almost reached the end of the exhibition, where lesser-known artists’ works were displayed. In the farthest corner, there were even some student paintings. Mr. Shao, being friends with Professor Qi from XX University, often accepted his recommendations and helped showcase promising students.
But these works weren’t worth showing to Mr. Field—he wouldn’t be interested.
Just as Mr. Shao was about to suggest heading back, he suddenly noticed that the man, who had maintained a steady, unhurried pace without the slightest change in expression, had abruptly stopped in front of a painting.
Mr. Shao couldn't help but follow his gaze. It was a dark-toned piece, resembling an endless starry sky.
But this starry sky was unlike any they had ever seen or imagined.
This painting carried a unique atmosphere and a remarkable sense of imagination. Even Mr. Shao had been surprised to learn that it was created by a first-year university student. Though it still lacked the polish of a seasoned artist’s work, it was already very impressive.
As he pondered what about the painting had caught Mr. Field’s attention, the man slowly turned his head. His brown eyes were calm and profound, his lips curving slightly. “I’d like to purchase this painting. Is that possible?”
Mr. Shao was momentarily stunned before responding, “Of course.”
Carlos gave a slight smile, his voice low and magnetic. “Thank you.”
After a brief pause, he lightly tapped his fingers on the back of his other hand and said, “I’m very interested in the artist who created this piece. If possible, I’d like to obtain their contact information.”
The author has something to say:
Collect all five love interests, and you can summon a battlefield of chaos.
Brandon: I might just be a background character. :)
Author: …
Carlos: I hear everyone assumes I’m part of the mafia, but I believe the mafia is too low-class for my status. :)
Author: …
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