Chapter 1
**Title: The Stand-in and Luna Whiteheart’s Happy Ending** 1. Edmund Hawthorne was a rising star in the entertainment industry, debuting with the best support and sailing smoothly to fame, only to spark envy in countless hearts. This was largely due to the powerful figure backing him. Cedric Stone had long harbored feelings for Luna Whiteheart, who was clearly straight. Despite years of pursuit, his affections remained unreciprocated. When Luna went abroad, Cedric encountered Edmund Hawthorne. Edmund, with his captivating starry eyes and the same charming tear mole at the corner, immediately drew Cedric in. 2. Unfortunately, Edmund ended up being “groomed” by someone who asked him to play a stand-in role, demanding that he act aloof and ignore Cedric completely. Edmund thought Cedric’s request was bizarre, but the pay was too good to pass up, so he tolerated it. Then Luna returned, and Cedric finally decided to pursue his true love, casting Edmund aside. Staring at his seven-figure bank balance, Edmund felt a mix of pain and relief: “I wish you both happiness.” 3. Without Cedric’s influence, Edmund found himself losing opportunities. However, given his talent and perseverance, he auditioned successfully for the role of a second lead in a popular historical drama. Ironically, the historical consultant for the show was none other than Luna Whiteheart. Edmund thought to himself: “This is going to be a wild ride.” He cautiously tried to keep his past with Cedric a secret, but as fate would have it, Luna ended up in his room that very night. Her alluring tear mole caught the light as she dialed Cedric’s number on his phone: “I heard you found a stand-in.” Cedric, panicking, insisted, “We’re innocent!” Luna leaned in and kissed Edmund on the mole. “Thank you; I really like it.” Edmund's thoughts spiraled: “Great. Just great. I’m completely doomed.” Cedric looked at the calling number and realized, “I think I’ve been played.” 4. The news of Edmund and Luna working together at The Company spread like wildfire, and everyone braced themselves for the spectacle of “Luna Whiteheart tearing apart her stand-in.” Until one day, when Edmund attended an event dressed in a sharp suit, showcasing a lavish antique gemstone bracelet that was clearly worth a fortune, yet no brand claimed it. Curious observers dug up the bracelet's origin: It was made by the famous Hawthorne family in Edinburgh, crafted by Luna herself at eighteen using historical techniques—something even high bidders couldn’t persuade her to part with. Now, this irreplaceable piece was flaunted on Edmund’s wrist. Edmund learned about his wrist on media outlets and frantically attempted to return it to Luna, only to discover he couldn’t take it off. Luna flipped through historical books: “Do you know why this bracelet seems so plain but the crafting method has been lost to time?” Edmund replied cluelessly, “I don’t know.” Luna clarified: “Because only the creator can unlock its secrets.” Edmund couldn’t help but think: “I signed up to be a stand-in and now I’ve wound myself in deeper than I intended.” **Reading Guide:** - Dual leads / HE / Four-year age gap / Slow burn - Cold on the outside, passionate with a strong possessiveness (Luna Whiteheart) x lively, naive, hardworking (Edmund Hawthorne) - Contemporary setting, context of same-sex marriage
Chapter 2
“Congratulations on wrapping up the shoot!” The vibrant set of "The Company" bustled with energy as crew members swarmed around the main cast. Yet, in a quiet corner, Edmund Hawthorne, the leading man, sat all alone, his existence overshadowed by the celebration around him. Curious gazes flickered in his direction—some judgmental, others tinged with sympathy, but mostly, they were filled with schadenfreude. Only Patricia Chester, the assistant director, approached him to offer her congratulations. Edmund looked up, flashing a smile that lit up his otherwise somber features. “Thanks, Patricia.” Patricia felt a slight pang in her chest. It was impossible not to notice how charming Edmund was—his facial features sculpted like they were chiseled by a divine hand. He had large, expressive eyes that glimmered with sincerity. When he smiled, his eyes curved into crescent moons, and unlike many in showbiz, the small beauty mark at the corner of his eye only made him more endearing. Edmund’s personality was equally appealing. Despite being the star of the show, he carried no airs. He was punctual, always graciously thanking everyone after filming wrapped up, and receptive to feedback, whether it was praise or criticism. His willingness to improve was rare in the industry these days. “Such a shame, though,” Patricia thought, her heart aching for him. This talented actor might never have the chance to shine again. Edmund noticed the sympathy in Patricia's eyes and chuckled lightly, brushing it off as if it meant nothing. He had only debuted a year ago, and this was already his second leading man role. He started in film, where he played a supporting character in a movie that grossed over a billion dollars—a feat that most newcomers, even seasoned actors, could only dream of. But despite his impressive achievements, the industry remained cold. Many insiders were aware that his success wasn’t purely due to talent; it was primarily thanks to his benefactor, Cedric Stone, the owner of Pine Entertainment. Edmund had met Cedric during his junior year at Edinburgh University, at a café where he worked part-time. Cedric had been taken in at first sight. “I felt this inexplicable connection the moment I saw you. How about you sign with my company? I can guarantee you'll be a star,” Cedric had said confidently. While Edmund was handsome, receiving confessions of love from both boys and girls throughout his life, he had never considered a career in entertainment. His family struggled financially, leaving him with no connections or relevant experience to enter that world. Cedric, however, didn’t take “no” for an answer. “I promise I can make you famous.” Edmund’s academic performance had been average, leading him to attend a state university. He couldn’t afford grad school, and his jobs barely paid enough to cover rent in Edinburgh, especially with a younger sister in high school and a sick mother to support. Times were tough, and he needed money. Cedric enumerated the generous salaries of some stars under Pine Entertainment’s banner. The pay for even minor roles dwarfed what he made in two years of working. After days of soul-searching, he realized that sometimes one had to take a leap of faith—no matter how chaotic the entertainment industry might seem—for the sake of financial stability.
Chapter 3
Edmund Hawthorne signed a five-year contract with Pine Entertainment. On the third day after signing, Cedric Stone arranged for him to take on a supporting role in a movie. At that time, Edmund had no clue what this meant; to him, it was just a job arranged by his boss, and he intended to do it well. Cedric Stone, the owner of the company, was attentive and caring, frequently visiting the set and inviting him out for meals, even providing him with a free employee apartment. After browsing through a university job fair, Edmund felt lucky to have encountered a once-in-a-lifetime boss. That changed when, one day, the third male lead from The Company looked at him with disdain in a secluded corner and called him a “bed warmer.” It was then that Edmund realized something was amiss. Known for his straightforward nature, he directly asked Cedric during their next meal together, “Why are you so nice to me?” Cedric fell silent for a moment before dropping the pretense and admitting, “You remind me of my first love.” Edmund was taken aback. “But I’m a guy.” “Yes,” Cedric replied, “my first love was also a guy. He was the most handsome man I’d ever seen, especially the mole at the corner of his eye. Every time he looked at me, it made me weak in the knees.” Edmund could only stare in disbelief. Same-sex marriage had been legal for years, and while Edmund had no issues with the LGBTQ+ community, the bizarre expression on Cedric’s face in that moment made him want to slap him. Discovering that he was merely a stand-in for Cedric's lost love, Luna Whiteheart, left Edmund in complete shock. The thought that Cedric might be thinking of someone else while being with him was disheartening. He considered breaking the contract, but when Cedric laughed coldly and declared, “The termination fee is eight million; can you afford that?” Edmund realized he was better off staying. “Just selling me off like that?” he thought. “I could never afford such a fee, even if I were to sell myself.” Cedric smirked, “Since you know the truth now, let’s make a deal. I’ll give you the best resources, but you have to pretend to be him to ease my longing.” “Is he dead?” Edmund asked. Cedric paused and said, “No, he’s abroad.” This left Edmund in a moral dilemma; just acting as a substitute for someone who was very much alive felt completely wrong. It practically screamed “sugar baby.” Although he had never dated anyone, male or female, the situation weighed heavily on him. Despite his hesitation, Cedric’s offer was tempting, and the looming threat of that eight million debt cast a long shadow. With his sister entering college and his mother needing medical treatment, Edmund clenched his teeth and agreed. Over the next six months, Cedric provided Edmund with the best opportunities. He was often seen with Cedric, who never bothered to hide the fact that Edmund was just an impersonator, even occasionally misnaming him during social gatherings. Before long, rumors spread within the industry about Edmund being a mere stand-in. Some envied his luck, wishing they had a face like his, while others despised him for sacrificing his dignity. And then there was Luna Whiteheart, who was still alive and bound to return. At the end of the day, Edmund knew he was destined to be cast aside. Yet, he didn’t care much. As long as the money kept flowing, he felt secure. But the truth lingered in the back of his mind—Luna Whiteheart was alive and would eventually come back.
Chapter 4
Three days ago, Cedric Stone learned that his beloved Luna Whiteheart was returning home. Midway through a meal with Edmund Hawthorne, he suddenly dropped his chopsticks and rushed out, overjoyed like a kid in a candy store. For three days, Cedric hadn’t contacted Edmund, but this morning he texted him, inviting him to dinner that evening to discuss the dissolution of their surrogate contract. Rumors circulated that Cedric had ordered a staggering ninety-nine thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine roses to confess his feelings to Luna once again on her return. This grand gesture had the entertainment circle buzzing; many knew that Luna was back, and they also knew that Edmund was about to be cast aside. In the cutthroat world of showbiz, underhanded tactics flourished, and today was particularly hard for Edmund as it marked the end of shooting for his latest project. This was not just a wrap for the show; it also signified the end of his relationship with Cedric. Edmund had risen to fame quickly upon entering the industry, garnering envy and resentment from many who would love to see him fall from grace. Without Cedric's backing, Edmund might struggle to survive in the industry. Once the assistant director left, Tobias North, the second male lead, approached with a mocking grin. “Well, look who’s all alone here. What’s wrong, King of the Screen?” Edmund smiled back. “North, you're three years older than me; maybe it's time to stop calling me 'King.'” Tobias rolled his eyes. “Age doesn't matter; it’s all about prestige and performance in this industry. If you didn’t have someone like Cedric behind you, you’d never have snagged the lead. But hey, word is Cedric has booked out the airport to propose to his sweetheart. Don’t be too heartbroken, Edmund.” Edmund’s smile didn’t falter; “North, I auditioned for this role and earned it fair and square. Maybe the director just thinks you’re better suited for a supporting character role; I mean, you do have that ‘castrated’ vibe.” The character Tobias played was a eunuch. Tobias couldn’t hold back his rage. “Edmund, stop being so insolent. You're nothing but a lowly bed warmer. Once Cedric officially drops you, good luck finding another job in this industry.” Edmund snorted, choosing not to engage further. While Tobias's latter statement held a grain of truth—losing Cedric's support would indeed complicate Edmund’s career—the first part was far from accurate. He wasn't merely playing dress-up for Cedric; he was a genuine anchor of support for him. After wrapping up matters with The Company, Edmund made his way to the restaurant where he was supposed to meet Cedric. Before he exited the car, his agent and assistant, Nora, gave him a worried look. “Just have a good talk with Cedric tonight. Even if we can’t continue in this industry, make sure you get something that resembles a breakup settlement.” Nora was genuinely concerned for Edmund; if he played it straight and didn’t rely on shortcuts, he could still carve out a decent career—maybe just a few years of hard work before possibly snagging an award and earning desirable roles. The way things stood now, however, was precarious, and she feared what lay ahead.
Chapter 5
Edmund Hawthorne chuckled lightly, “Don’t worry, Nora.” He genuinely wanted to take his acting seriously, but without Cedric Stone’s backing, he doubted he’d even gain entry into the entertainment industry. Today’s restaurant had been reserved by Cedric Stone. As soon as Edmund stepped inside, he spotted Cedric and made his way to the table. He sat down with a stoic expression, but Cedric’s gaze was still fixated on him—more specifically, on his eyes and the small mole at the corner of his eye. “Cedric,” Edmund called, snapping him back to reality. Cedric took a breath. Luna Whiteheart was coming back, and here he was, lost in thought over Edmund. “Did you read the message I sent you?” Cedric asked. “Yeah.” To prepare for Luna, Cedric had drafted a “Breakup Agreement” for his stand-in: 1. Cedric Stone would no longer provide him with resources or special treatment, leaving all opportunities up to Edmund’s own efforts. 2. Edmund Hawthorne couldn’t mention their stand-in contract to anyone. 3. Cedric would give Edmund a severance payment but insisted Edmund never appear in front of him again. The terms weren’t harsh—they could even be seen as looking out for Edmund's interests. Still, Edmund knew that in his current circle, everyone was a friend of Cedric's. Once he was labeled as “the one who Cedric discarded,” opportunities to collaborate would dry up fast. Cedric was too wrapped up in his own pursuits to consider Edmund’s future. “Edmund, I’ve been pretty good to you these past six months. Some actors never even get a shot at being a leading role,” Cedric remarked meaningfully. “I get it,” Edmund replied. Cedric sighed, “I’ve transferred the money. Just forget about me from now on.” As he received a text notification, he noticed a new six-digit sum in his bank account. Edmund struggled to suppress a grin and said, “Wish you both happiness.” “Before we part ways for good, cough...” Cedric loosened his tie and said, “Can you help me rehearse the confession scene?” “Of course.” For that kind of money, he would even cheer Cedric on during the actual proposal. Cedric’s expression suddenly shifted, transforming from a charming rogue to a passionate one. Lowering his voice, he said earnestly, “Luna, would you give me a chance to be your boyfriend?” Having played the role of Luna for so long, Edmund felt comfortable. He lazily raised his eyelids and replied, “Forget it.” The author has something to say: Chapter Two Cedric’s face fell instantly. “Edmund, are you saying you don’t want me to be with Luna?” Edmund innocently shrugged, “Didn’t you say Master Yatton used to be the same way with you? Besides, he’s a straight guy; it’s a normal reaction to reject you, right?” Cedric clutched his chest in anguish. “I prepared a whole airport worth of roses! Who wouldn’t be moved by that?” Edmund thought about it. From what he knew of Luna, she came from a prestigious family background, was a university professor specializing in history, and had that kind of elegant, ethereal air about her. Given her refined lifestyle, filled with tea ceremonies and classical traditions, it was unlikely she would find a sea of bright red roses appealing. Of course, he wasn’t a stalker who dug up personal information; it was just that Luna was famous. A quick search revealed not just her profile but those of her entire family, all alumni of Edinburgh University with at least a master’s degree. Compared to them, Cedric resembled a flashy newcomer, and even if Luna wasn’t straight, it was hard to see her liking him. Having just pocketed his boss's payment, Edmund didn’t want to belittle Cedric. Instead, he diplomatically suggested, “Chasing someone requires effort. Master Yatton doesn’t seem like a rose person.” Cedric’s face turned pale. “Those roses cost me thousands! The airport hall costs a fortune to book; how can that be considered not putting in effort? You’re just playing the role of him. Don’t presume to know his thoughts; you’re not him.” Okay, he wouldn't argue with that; he kept quiet. Edmund had enough humility to adapt. “Come on, let’s try again. You need to agree.” “Fine.” He reluctantly gave it another go. Cedric, with renewed sincerity, said, “Luna, would you be my girlfriend?” Edmund tilted his head, letting a soft smile play on his lips, sparkling like blooming flowers: “Sure.” Cedric was taken aback. “……” Edmund quipped, “What’s wrong? Not satisfied?” Cedric waved his hands, “No, that’s good. I’ll settle the bill, and I have to go.” He clutched his heart as he made a hasty exit. Even knowing Edmund was just acting, he found himself captivated by the smile. He was about to confess to Luna, and here he was, feeling something for someone else—it was truly a moral dilemma. Edmund glanced at the untouched dishes on the table and called Nora, “Hey, Nora, you coming up for dinner?” Nora, anxiously waiting downstairs, asked, “Did you reach an agreement? Is Cedric going to sponsor you?” “No, he told me never to contact him again.” “Wait—how can you eat after such big news?”
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