“Is art imitating life, or is life just this sweet?” Fans of popular short drama couple Zeng Hui and Han Yutong got the confirmation they’ve long been hoping for when the two stars were spotted engaging in some serious public displays of affection on the streets of Beijing.

On October 27, eagle-eyed netizens captured the rising short drama stars walking hand-in-hand, completely unbothered by onlookers. The two were seen strolling through the city, with Zeng Hui sweetly calling Han Yutong by her pet name “Niuniu” while carrying her large shopping bags – a picture of off-screen affection that sent fans into a frenzy.

The pair have been co-stars in ten short dramas, including fan-favorite hits like Mr. Li, You Married the Wrong Wife and Falling Into a Spring Night. Their on-screen chemistry birthed the fan-named couple tag “Sunset Rain and Radiance”, a portmanteau of their character names that has drawn a dedicated CP fandom.

Industry insiders suggest that their romance has long been an “open secret” within the entertainment circle. Though both stars have remained coy in interviews Zeng Hui once said he “doesn’t believe in love at first sight” their consistent collaborations and increasingly close rapport have only fueled speculation.

This latest sighting, however, may have taken their relationship status from rumored to (almost) confirmed. While neither party has officially addressed the photos, their cozy interaction complete with intertwined fingers and pet names says more than words ever could.

As short dramas continue to explode in popularity across China, Zeng Hui and Han Yutong’s off-screen bond may be the fairy tale fans didn’t know they needed. Whether or not a formal confirmation comes, “Sunset Rain and Radiance” might already be the romance of the year.

Sources: ETtoday