China and the U.S., the world's two most consequential powers, are moving in very different directions. China is doubling down on self-reliance, while the U.S. continues to preserve global dominance. But despite mounting tensions, the two sides also appear to be managing competition carefully and perhaps uneasily. Can this uneasy balance last? How can Beijing and Washington avoid confrontation? Can people-to-people exchanges succeed while official diplomacy struggles? Is peaceful coexistence a realistic outcome or just wishful thinking?