Samuel couldn't contain his excitement as he turned to Timmy, beaming with pride. "Did you hear that? Goddess Zia just mentioned me!"
Timmy could only nod, replying, "Yes, Sir." It was still surreal to him, witnessing this side of his boss. Samuel, who was usually so stoic, never revealing his emotions to anyone, had transformed into someone entirely different.
Samuel was a man who never indulged in idle gossip and spoke only when necessary, often leaving people guessing about what he was truly feeling. Smiles were rare, and his presence alone could be intimidating. But everything had changed after Zinnia came into his life.
Timmy vividly recalled how Samuel had suddenly shown up at work the day after their engagement, grinning from ear to ear. The entire office had been in disbelief, thinking they were seeing things. It was such a stark contrast to the usual, unreadable expression that Samuel wore like armor.
But now, his boss frequently inquired about the latest gossip, always eager to hear what people were saying about his so-called friends. If Samuel found out that any negative rumors were circulating about them, he would immediately instruct Timmy, "Add more fuel to the fire. Let the public know. Use international social media. I don't want Zia's company getting blamed for this nonsense."
However, when it came to Zinnia, Samuel's approach was entirely different. "Stop those rumors. Wipe them all out. My Zia isn't like that! Instead, spread more news about her paintings and achievements—that's what people should be talking about."
It was like watching a complete personality shift whenever Zinnia was involved. Timmy was both amused and bewildered by it. His boss could easily win an award for best actor with the way he could change so drastically.
One particular incident stood out in Timmy's mind. Samuel had been enthusiastically discussing new limited-edition merchandise for Zinnia's loyal fans when his phone rang, with a special ringtone he'd set just for Zinnia's calls. The excitement on Samuel's face vanished instantly, replaced by his usual cold demeanor as he answered the call.
"I'm busy with work. I'll be home late," Samuel said in a tone so frosty it was hard to believe he had just been gushing over Zinnia moments before. He ended the call abruptly, leaving Timmy feeling sorry for Zinnia, who had no idea that the warm and loving man she saw in public was completely different behind closed doors.
Sometimes, Timmy had the urge to tell Zinnia the truth. He wanted to say, "Don't believe it when he's mean to you. Samuel is actually head over heels for you. How he treats you in public is how he truly feels. The coldness in private is just a facade—he's trying to push you away because he thinks he doesn't deserve someone as amazing as you."
But those words always stuck in Timmy's throat. He wasn't brave enough to risk his boss's wrath by doing something without permission. He could never understand why Samuel, who was clearly in love with Zinnia, chose to treat her so coldly in private while openly simping over her in public using an alternate account. The situation baffled him.
Timmy's thoughts were interrupted when Samuel urged him, "Come on, keep pressing the like button. Leave comments and keep clicking the heart icon."
Timmy's attention snapped back to the livestream, where likes and heart-shaped icons floated endlessly across the screen. He could only follow his boss's orders.
"No, that's not enough. You're too slow," Samuel complained, dissatisfied with Timmy's efforts.
Timmy sighed in agitation as he watched Samuel post an announcement on the fan page.
"Mr. Sunshine: Anyone who gives the most likes, hearts, and comments during today's livestream will receive limited-edition merchandise and a free ticket to our Goddess Zia's upcoming art exhibit."
Timmy was left speechless by his boss's actions but could only give a like reaction to the announcement.
Soon, the livestream blew up with enthusiastic comments from fans, the screen filled with a downpour of likes and hearts.
Timmy then heard Zia_L speak, "Today's theme is a tribute to my fans, especially my Little Flowers, for three years of continuous support."
The camera focused on a blank canvas as Zia_L continued, "I plan to paint a garden, and I'll be including a sun to represent the President of my fan club, Mr. Sunshine."
Samuel looked at Timmy with pride gleaming in his eyes. "Did you hear that? She's going to include me in her painting!"
Zia_L continued, "I'll also be adding a grasshopper to represent our Vice President, Tiny_Grasshopper."
This time, Timmy couldn't help but feel a little pride himself, but Samuel didn't even glance his way.
"Of course," Zia_L went on, "I'll be painting lots of flowers to symbolize all my fan club members—the Little Flowers. You guys can comment on what types of flowers you'd like me to paint."
Soon, suggestions began pouring in, filling the screen.
"How about some sunflowers? They always bring such warmth and happiness to any painting!"
"I'd love to see some cherry blossoms! They're so delicate and beautiful."
"Can you add some lilies? They have such a graceful, elegant look."
"Roses, definitely roses! Maybe in a mix of red and white?"
"Orchids would look stunning in your style. So exotic and refined!"
"What about some daisies? They're simple, but they really pop in a painting."
"You should try painting lavender! The color and texture would be amazing."
"Can you do some peonies? They have such a lush and full appearance."
"How about tulips? They come in so many vibrant colors, and they're perfect for spring vibes."
"Could you add some hibiscus flowers? They're so bold and tropical!"
"You should definitely include Zinnia flowers right in the center—they're so vibrant and strong, just like you, Goddess Zia! Plus, it's your real name, so it would be a beautiful personal touch."
Zia_L reacted with a smile upon reading the suggestions. "Seems like I won't be able to hide from you, my Little Flowers—you all know my real name."
She smiled brightly at the camera and said, "I'll start painting now."