Month: March 2021

Chapter 86 – He can understand you
 
There are still activities to participate in the day after his birthday so An Xumo only had time to pack the cake and take it back. He cleaned out all the things in the dormitory’s mini-refrigerator before putting the cake in.
 
After finishing up, An Xumo sat on the floor and looked through the photos he had taken today on his phone. The birthday celebration during the day, the expensive gifts for the various media, the honey banquet in the evening, the birthday cake that echoed the memories, and the letter from P University.
 
He looked at it and suddenly remembered something.
 
An Xumo stood up and hurriedly walked to the door, rummaging in the bag he had just returned. A light blue paper box revealed in the corner, his hand stopped and moved gently, taking out the paper box.
 
This is a birthday gift from Zhou Jinchen which he especially found and brought back from a pile of gifts today.
 
The outer seal was carefully removed and the box was cut open with a knife. An Xumo turned the box over and a carefully laminated photo fell out.
 
He was stunned when he first saw the photo.
 
There are three people in the photo who looked like a snapshot. In the most conspicuous position, there stood a handsome young man, and not far from him is a woman in a long dress holding a baby.
 
The expressions of the two people are somewhat solemn and you can see both their upright faces but the first thing An Xumo noticed is the little boy who looked less than one year old.
 
An Xumo looked at it for a long time, then slowly turned the photo over.
 
His heart was beating violently and the three names pasted on the outside of the laminated cover came into view.
 
He Wenbin, An He, An Xumo.
 
That boy was himself when he was a child.
 
The seawater submerged all around, the water filled his eyes, the body rose and fell with the waves, and the silence in the ears was empty.
 
An Xumo laid on his back on the floor, the light above his head shined down the photo as if it could project the two people in the photo on his side.
 
Those are the two titles he had called a thousand times in his dreams but he never got a response in reality.
 
Father, mother.
 
–
 
Early the next morning, the stylist was so busy applying ice, medicine, and makeup that she managed to barely cover An Xumo’s slightly swollen eyes and mouth.
 
Tang Tang looked like she wanted to say something until An Xumo asked her, she only said cautiously, “Xiao Mo, after you went back last night……did you meet Brother Zhou?”
 
“No, why do you ask?” An Xumo did not understand.
 
“…….” Tang Tang silently pointed to his eyes and mouth.
 
The changes from when she was on the set after the kissing scene…… how similar, and the eyes were swollen from crying.
 
“Oh, I bit myself.” An Xumo was a little embarrassed. He was a bit emotional yesterday and forgot about not biting his mouth.
 
Fortunately, today’s event is in the afternoon, the situation is not too serious. But Tang Tang’s words reminded An Xumo, he looked for his phone and sent a message to Zhou Jinchen.
 
“Thank you for the gift yesterday.” 
 
After getting the photo last night, An Xumo’s emotions got a little out of control for a moment and he forgot to say thank you to his brother. Now, when he calmed down and thought about it, sending things to the media, the Belgian cake, the P University notice, and that photo, each gift meant a lot to An Xumo.
 
He realized that some things seemed to have become different from before.
 
If the previous intimacy in front of people was for hype, these birthday gifts could no longer be the same reason. An Xumo didn’t think any deeper and he didn’t need to think much. The warmth and fullness of joy were enough to fill one’s chest and stomach.
 
The mobile phone buzzed for a while and a new message alert popped up.
 
“As long as you like it.”
 
“Happy coming of age.”
 
An Xumo repeatedly looked at the two messages and couldn’t hide the smile on his lips.
 
On his eighteenth birthday, he made a wish to live for himself. The wish hadn’t gone very far and the once heaviest shackles had become warm and soft.
 
–
 
Sixteen days after its release,《Different Roads》exceeded 2.6 billion at the box office, setting a new box office record for domestic films. Twenty-five days after its release, the total box office reached 3.5 billion. At the same time, the film announced a one-month interval of《Different Roads》’s release which basically spanned the entire summer season. The total box office forecast also rose from 4 to 4.5 billion.
 
The topics related to the movie remained hot and various marketing accounts and push messages were actively rubbing on the movie’s popularity. The cast and crew have celebrated several times and unlike ordinary purely commercial films,《Different Roads》has been selected for several major awards, aiming for a double harvest of box office and winning awards.
 
The actors in the movie have naturally been benefited. Not to mention, the two leading actors who were already film emperors, but An Xumo alone, in the month after the movie’s release, his Weibo followers soared by two million, and other related indexes are also rising. In addition to this, he is the first person among the current traffic idols to act in a high-grossing film of a big director. Obviously, he had opened up a gap with other traffic idols in his identity as an actor.
 
At the end of the second round of promotional activities, An Xumo finally gained a little free time. Since he was going to report at P University in September, the team finally resisted the company’s pressure and helped him put off his long-term activities for a few months, and only taking on some short-term activities and a script that would not start until two and a half years later.
 
The admission work for the national college entrance examinations was about to be completed and the team was planning to put out news that An Xumo is going to college in the near future. At this time, he is at a time when the discussion is high, and if he is not careful, he may be seized by someone to maliciously blacken him so the team is still in strict control of the processes.
 
But for An Xumo, what he is most concerned about on his mind now is another thing.
 
A few days after his eighteenth birthday, Zhang Zhiwei, who he had not seen for a long time, called. On the day of his birthday, he also sent his best wishes to An Xumo but this time, the phone call was a hundred times more surprising than the birthday wishes.
 
Unexpectedly, Zhang Zhiwei told An Xumo that his mother wanted to see him.
 
It’s not that An Xumo did not think of using Zhang Zhiwei’s help to find his mother but at the time of the recording of《Different Roads》, Zhang Zhiwei said he had not been in touch with his sister (An Xumo’s mother, they’re not related by blood) for a long time. Later, when he contacted An Xumo about Ma Lao’s movie, he did not mention his sister again. When An Xumo slowly let down his guard, he could no longer find the right opportunity.
 
After receiving the photo that Zhou Jinchen found, An Xumo’s imagination of his mother was a little more real. Yet it never occurred to him that a few days later, the dream had become a reality.
 
Zhang Zhiwei explained that the reason An He took the initiative to bring up the meeting was An Xumo’s eighteenth birthday. He also said on the phone that An Xumo should not be angry with his family. Children are the heart of the parents, even if they had conflicts for a while, they couldn’t be angry for too long.
 
An Xumo’s dizzy thoughts were cooled down a little. When did he……get angry with his family?
 
After beating around the bush, An Xumo found that Zhan Zhiwei actually didn’t know his real-life background. The other side only thought that he was in conflict with his family and came out angrily to make his debut in the show business which is why he never mentioned anything about his mother. Because of this, An He also needed to rely on Zhang Zhiwei to get in touch with An Xumo.
 
An Xumo never mentioned anything about his family. The only reason why Zhang Zhiwei would think so is that An He’s statement possibly influenced him. An Xumo doesn’t know why the other party said so, but thinking about the Zhou family, he seemed to be able to find some explanation.
 
An He is abroad and needs to change her communication when she returns home. Zhang Zhiewi said he would give her An Xumo’s contact information, and when she arrives, she will contact An Xumo. An Xumo has been looking at his phone for the past few days, when he is busy, he will also give his phone to Tang Tang for safekeeping so that she can notify him as soon as she receives the message.
 
But after waiting for a few days, An Xumo hadn’t received a message from his mother but Xin Zimai came to the door.
 
“Do a checkup……?” An Xumo was a little confused, “Didn’t you just have a medical checkup recently?”
 
“It’s not a medical checkup, it’s like this,” Xin Zimai said after a moment of deliberation, “you know about your brother’s accident when he was twelve, right?’
 
The movie’s distribution account for《Different Roads》had not yet ended but many projects that previously lacked funding could now begin to move. Zhou Jinchen was too busy with his new investment company to get away and he wasn’t ready to make his own apology yet which is why Xin Zimai came over for him.
 
An Xumo frowned, “…… En.”
 
“After that, he recuperated for a long time. In fact, this injury is mainly on a psychological level. You should also find that Jinchen is indifferent to many things. These manifestations are all in fact rooted in his initial disease — Asperger’s syndrome.”
 
Xin Zimai briefly explained the disease to An Xumo, and then said, “Jinchen is a relatively special type. He did not show any abnormalities in his childhood. If he was properly educated, he may not be much different from other people. The problem is that at the age of twelve, he received a great mental stimulation, AS coupled with the accident which made him to have this kind of emotional sensitivity disorder he has now.”
 
When Xin Zimai finished his sentence, as expected, he saw An Xumo’s surprised expression.
 
Zhou Jinchen had already figured out that matter and it was only a matter of time before he confessed. After consideration, they decided to tell An Xumo the truth about Zhou Jinchen in advance. Therefore, when Zhou Jinchen apologizes, An Xumo could realize that the ruthlessness when he proposed the cooperation publicity was in fact actually partly due to his own mental illness.
 
Besides, they have another thing to say.
 
When An Xumo calmed down a bit, Xin Zimai continued, “At present, there is only special research on young autistic patients in China, and the diagnosis of adult AS patients is still very vague. Recently, Huashan Hospital where Jinchen is being treated is receiving a medical team from abroad. This team has done an in-depth research in the field of autism so we would like to take advantage of the few days they are in China to register you.”
 
An Xumo was silly stunned for a moment, “……me? Isn’t my brother who is ill?”
 
Xin Zimai tried to explain, “It’s just a simple checkup, not a treatment.”
 
Only then did An Xumo understand, “You mean, I might also be an AS patient?”
 
“It would be best to rule it out.” Xin Zimai said, “It’s just an assumption.”
 
An Xumo was a bit confused, “But I don’t seem to think I have anything similar to these symptoms?”
 
Xin Zimai asked, “How did you feel when you were surrounded by thousands of fans shouting your name? Do you feel concerned when you read those comments on the internet that cursed you?”
 
An Xumo thoughtfully said, “To the fans, it’s being thankful, right? Those remarks are nothing to be concerned about……”
 
Xin Zimai smiled bitterly, “Xiao An, do you know how many people who had made their debut for many years have no way to achieve such a calm state of mind?”
 
An Xumo hesitated, “Doesn’t this show that I have a good state of mind?”
 
“It also shows that your perception of external emotions is likewise very insensitive.” Xin Zimai said, “Xiao An, you really don’t want to go that much?”
 
After considering it, An Xumo finally agreed to Xin Zimai’s proposal. Subsequently, with an appointment for the next day, he went to Huashan Hospital accompanied by Xin Zimai.
 
The examination process was very boring and tedious, especially when the people he faced were speaking English. Fortunately, An Xumo went to school before and his English was not bad so he was able to complete the communication process smoothly for an unknown number of times.
 
When it was over, An Xumo left first and the delay for almost half a day is already the limit of his work can give.
 
Xin Zimai did not stay either but he kept an eye on the diagnosis results. Not long after the appointment, he received a call from Li Qiucheng.
 
As soon as the call hung up, Xin Zimai immediately dialed another number.
 
“The results are out, Xiao An has no symptoms of AS. Just tell him directly what you want to say, he can understand.” 
 
A low, magnetic voice came from the other end, “Good.”
 
“But……” Xin Zimai hesitated for a moment and said, “Jinchen, I have another thing to tell you.”
 
“Although Xiao An was not born with autism, but have……he seems to have undergone a very intense psychological trauma. The person who diagnosed him was from that professional medical team and the doctor who talked to him said that Xiao An, h-he has a high tendency for severe anxiety and depression……”

Chapter 85 – If you like them,¹Didn’t specify a person but I guess we know who~go confess ah.
 
•·················•·················•

The room was extremely quiet and a pin drop could be heard.
 
An Xumo opened his mouth to speak but in the end, he was not able to say anything. He just stood there in place and watched, watching the man walk into the room without saying a word, holding an opaque file bag in his hand.
 
Zhou Jinchen originally walked over in the direction of the desk but he stopped in his tracks when he was halfway there. The daze and unconscious fear revealed on the boy’s face are like a yellow cordon, which rigidly stopped his movements.
 
The file bag was put aside on a small table. Zhou Jinchen stopped at a distance of two meters away, he looked at An Xumo and said softly, “Happy birthday.” ²T/N: Social distancing matters. Stay safe everyone!
 
After speaking, the man’s movement paused, and finally, he turned around and walked out towards the door.
 
With a “click”, the door was closed.
 
The room was silent for a long time before Tang Tang found her voice.
 
“He……Brother Zhou, he, did not hear my last words, right……”
 
She felt that she couldn’t stand anymore; she barely pulled up a chair on the side and sat on it as if she had collapsed.
 
Just like using cold sweat to remove the makeup, Tang Tang easily stabilized her slightly shaking right hand and dialed Brother Shen’s number.
 
When the phone call was over, Tang Tang let out a long sigh but did not feel much relief.
 
She hesitated to say something to An Xumo who turned his back to her, “Xiao Mo, today’s cake and this food…… are all prepared by Brother Zhou.”
 
“Brother Shen said that there is a new task tomorrow and Brother Zhou told them to leave first. He brought these things over; he probably wants to celebrate your birthday.”
 
An Xumo took that file bag and responded in a low voice.
 
In fact, he had a faint premonition from the moment he saw the candles on the cake.
 
When he was very young, he was so hungry that he couldn’t hold on and pulled his brother’s collar to beg for food. The family happened to have sweets sent from abroad; his brother peeled off the candy wrapper, broke the milk candy, and fed it to him in small pieces.
 
An Xumo remembered the candy given by his brother but Zhou Jinchen mistakenly thought he liked this family’s candy. The big box of exquisite candy ended up in An Xumo’s belly and Zhou Jinchen later specifically mentioned it to Zhou Yunlin that he wanted this kind of candy that came all the way from Belgium.
 
He had thought this kind of thing would only be remembered by himself who repeatedly savored that little bit of sweetness but he didn’t expect it.
 
Didn’t expect it.
 
Tang Tang who was behind him was a little uneasy, “But why did Brother Zhou leave so quickly. Did I say too much……”
 
An Xumo walked back and gently patted Tang Tang’s shoulder.
 
He himself was in a terrible mess and could only say what he wanted to say to the two of them.
 
“Don’t think too much about it.”
 
He picked up the file bag, “What is this about?”
 
In the file bag, there was a notice letter sent from the school, and on the envelope, there is also P University’s emblem printed on it.
 
Tang Tang’s attention was drawn to the item; she picked it up and looked it over.
 
“This……” Tang Tang’s eyes widened, “did P University agreed?”
 
“Hmm?”
 
Tang Tang parted the loose hair on the side of her forehead and explained as clearly as possible, “You’ve been busy with publicity these past two days and I haven’t had the chance to talk to you. We tried to communicate with P University but the school said that you lost contact since September last year, the contact information you left has been said to be with the wrong person, and the regular feedback you should have, have failed to complete. At the end of the semester before this summer vacation, the school did not receive the news so they put forward your files, and prepared to return them.”
 
This is true. An Xumo responded that it was the Zhou family who paid the tuition, and then they called afterwards. They certainly would not care about this matter.

“We are also communicating with P University but they are quite insistent so they were not very easy to handle.” Tang Tang said. “The company intends to let you retake the exam and go to an art school. We still want to fight for it so the news is not confirmed for the time being.”
 
“Unexpectedly…… P University has now actually agreed to the re-admission.”
 
Tang Tang looked at An Xumo, “Xiao Mo, why don’t you go study at P University? We can hire another teacher for acting and dancing, the company has professional resources. But P University is such a good school; it’s a pity to miss it.”
 
An Xumo paused for a moment and asked, “Will the company agree?”
 
Tang Tang held up the file bag, “This should be a favor from Brother Zhou. If he agrees, the company won’t have any big problem.”
 
Speaking of this, she was a little bothered once again.
 
The person indeed takes care of their younger brother like an elder brother but as a result, others have yet to understand the situation, they are already badmouthing people behind their backs…… it’s really too uncalled for.
 
An Xumo picked up the file bag.
 
After a long time he said, “If conditions permit, I will go.”
 
–
 
Just after confirming the last item on the plan, Xin Zimai who was relieved suddenly received a phone call belonging to the person who executed the last item.
 
“Hello, Jinchen?” He picked up the phone and froze for a moment.
 
“I’m at home, ah, Dr. Li is also here…… You want to come over now? Do you have a car?”
 
Li Qiucheng walked over with a glass of hot milk in his hand.
 
“Ok……We’ll wait for you at home. Call me when you’re almost there, I’ll go down and pick you up.”
 
Once Xin Zimai finished, he looked up and saw Li Qiucheng’s smiling expression.
 
“……” He paused, “What’s the matter with you?”
 
Li Qiucheng waved his hand and pushed the milk over.
 
That “we” sounded really sweet.
 
Xin Zimai looked at the milk and frowned, he decided not to bother with Li Qiucheng for the time being, “Jinchen is coming over. He suddenly wanted to find you for consultation, it’s the middle of the night……I don’t know what’s going on. Didn’t he say he was going to celebrate Xiao An’s birthday?”
 
“Maybe something happened while celebrating Xiao An’s birthday.” 
 
Lo Qiucheng said, pushing the milk towards the person again.
 
Xin Zimai: “……What are you doing?”
 
Li Qiucheng said calmly, “Consultation fee.”
 
“……”
 
By the time Zhou Jinchen arrived, it was already after midnight, and fortunately, it was this time that he was not recognized by fans on the road.
 
As soon as he arrived, he got right to the point and made his way towards Li Qiucheng, “I have something to ask you.”
 
Li Qiucheng asked, “What’s the matter?”
 
Zhou Jinchen said, “The behavior corresponds to emotional issues.”
 
Li Qiucheng had heard a little bit about this. When Zhou Jinchen refused to communicate with anyone at that time, Mr. Old Yu who brought him to the deep mountains reconstructed an emotional system for him. Zhou Jinchen could not understand emotions so Mr. Old Yu taught him to remember the emotions corresponding to each action, from simple to complex, and finally little by little, it spelled into the colorful world of normal people.
 
Although it’s not clear what exactly Zhou Jinchen met, he can’t find out real emotions by himself but as one of the only few people in the know, Li Qiucheng is also the most suitable candidate.
 
But what should be said is still to be said, Li Qiucheng said, “I would like to state in advance, my understanding of psychology is only at the introductory level, and I am not qualified to be a psychologist. I may not be able to give a correct and thorough answer to the questions you want to ask.”
 
Zhou Jinchen was silent for a moment and nodded his head.
 
Seeing his insistence, Li Qiucheng said, “Then, let’s begin.”
 
The two sat opposite each other and Xin Zimai sat on the other side of the sofa. He was instructed in advance by Li Qiucheng to try not to speak up and participate so at this point, he could only be a silent observer.
 
Li Qiucheng asked, “What kind of behavior are you going to talk about?”
 
Zhou Jinchen said, “It’s my own matters.”
 
…… His own behavior? Li Qiucheng did not really think about it, this is his first time being honest. Moreover, behavior infers emotions; in this way, doesn’t Zhou Jinchen have questions about his own emotions?

 
He can sense emotions now?
 
Zhou Jinchen continued, “I don’t remember what happened after that drunkenness but subsequently, I had nightmares for a long time.”
 
“The dream was chaotic, it has everything in it. I could vaguely feel that it was my world ten years ago.”
 
“One day following that, I heard the voice of a seven-year-old An Xumo, and from then on, seeing him relieved my stress, both inside and outside of my dreams.”
 
Li Qicheng thought that his initial conjecture was probably correct. An Xumo must have helped him when Zhou Jinchen was harmed that year.
 
“After some time, the relief outside the dream changed.” Zhou Jinchen said in a low voice, “When we don’t see each other, I would also think what would happen after seeing him, and gradually developed the impulse to get closer to him.”
 
Li Qiucheng pursed his lips.
 
Wanting to see when you can’t see, wanting to get closer when you see……
 
“After that, the impulse is getting stronger and stronger. I changed the original plan, took his contract, and helped him find resources, treat his stomach illness, and eat on time.”
 
“What did you think about when you made these decisions?”
 
Li Qiucheng asked, “For example, when you helped him treat his stomach illness, did you think that when he gets better, you could use him to get more benefits?”
 
Zhou Jinchen immediately gave an answer.
 
“No, all I thought about was the first half of the sentence, to make him feel better.”
 
Li Qiucheng nodded, “Good, you continue.”
 
“That’s basically all I have to say for myself. I don’t know why I chose to do this kind of thing but I know that I’ll be happy to do it.”
 
Zhou Jinchen said, “Besides mine, there is his part.”
 
Zhou Jinchen described what happened in the office tonight along with what happened when he noticed that An Xumo no longer kept his eyes on him.
 
Xin Zimai listened on the sidelines with an obviously strange expression.
 
After listening, Li Qiucheng pondered for a moment.
 
“If,” he mused, “I mean if you replace what you said about yourself with someone else, I can basically conclude that this emotion is being emotionally affected.”
 
“Perhaps, it’s a little deeper than being emotionally affected such as liking, or even the like being deeper than love.”
 
“However, Jinchen, you know, your situation is rather special.” Li Qiucheng cautiously said, “Therefore, I think, you need to draw the final conclusion yourself.”
 
Zhou Jinchen gave a low response.
 
“But anyway,” Li Qiucheng said, “this time is definitely a good thing for you. There is nothing to worry about. You might as well listen to the voice inside your heart.”
 
Zhou Jinchen was silent for a moment, and then said, “What about his part?”
 
Li Qiucheng said, “Xiao An’s behavior is easier to explain.”
 
From the first time meeting this person, Li Qiucheng noticed this matter in the cafeteria.
 
“He is deeply attached to you, perhaps, deeper than like.”
 
“…… He likes me?” Zhou Jinchen’s expression finally showed a crack.
 
Li Qiucheng said, “It’s obvious.”
 
He left some time for Zhou Jinchen to digest this matter. After all, this was the first time that the other party had developed a feeling other than disgust when hearing that someone likes him.
 
Nonetheless, there was one more thing he had to clarify.
 
Li Qiucheng deliberately said, “But he has now changed his mind and is ready to withdraw.”
 
Zhou Jinchen’s expression visibly moved again.
 
“Why?”
 
Li Qiucheng said, “Maybe it’s the publicity plan or it could be your cold attitude towards him.”
 
Zhou Jinchen’s eyebrows furrowed tightly.
 
Li Qiucheng looked at the man whose emotions were obviously thrown into confusion and softly said, “If you can determine what you really want…… Jinchen, it may not be too late to chase.”
 
“Besides, you better explain one thing to him in advance.”
 
Zhou Jinchen reacted to Li Qiucheng’s question after half a beat, “What is it?”
 
Li Qiucheng said solemnly, “The previous publicity plan was a wrong start. You need to make it clear that you don’t want to continue to use him.”
 
Xin Zimai sitting on the side watching the two of them, his mind automatically filtered the conversation.
 
In the final analysis, what Zhou Jinchen had to say was actually only two sentences.
 
— I’m sorry.
 
— I like you.
 
•·················•·················•
 
The author has something to say:
 
Brother’s awakening progress: 100%
 
Brother chasing Xiao Mo’s progress: ……too little to see.

•·················•·················•

Jie Jie: 2 updates for the missed update last Wednesday! I apologize for not updating, I was so busy the whole week and I wasn’t having enough sleep due to overloaded school works. That’s why I’ll be bringing bad news: the update schedule will be once a week from now on, every Friday. I’m sorry everyone, we just have so many school loads to do that I don’t have much time anymore (╥﹏╥)

Once my school loads get relaxed a bit, I’ll bring back the twice a week update.

Thank you for understanding! ( ´ ∀ `)ノ～ ♡

Chapter 84 – Is birthday really happy
After taking the highest domestic single-week box office record of 1.5 billion in its first week,《Different Roads》took in another 500 million in its second week. The film’s follow-up was so long-lasting that even the constant release of new films failed to shake its position as the single-day box office champion.
 
《Different Roads》used a step-by-step accounting distribution model. The longer it is in cinemas, the higher the percentage of the cinemas can allocate. Combined with the fact that the attendance rate never dropped significantly, the movie’s running time was spontaneously extended. Judging from the current records, it is just around the corner for 《Different Roads》 to break the total box office record of domestic movies. In this case, the publicity and development team also has a new motivation. Soon, the crew started the second round of road shows during the screening.
 
Unfortunately, the third day of the second round of the road shows was An Xumo’s birthday.
 
An Xumo himself did not feel anything. He has long ceased to be the eager little boy back then, and his special feelings for birthdays have faded a lot. Although he had gradually increased contact with fans recently, An Xumo has little idea of his identity as a traffic idol. If it wasn’t for Tang Tang telling him about his fans’ support, he wouldn’t have been aware of the fact that fans would spend money for their idols on their birthdays.
 
“…… so many?” An Xumo was a little surprised. “It’s all because of my birthday?”
 
“Yes,” Tang Tang laid out the data one by one, “the newspaper pages of eighteen domestic newspapers, outdoor billboards in eighteen foreign cities, eighteen charity projects, and the giant LED caption on Waitan in S City……”
 
The more An Xumo listened, the more frightened he was. He somewhat said helplessly, “It’s just a birthday. It’s not worth spending so much money, right?”
 
“This is your coming of age birthday ah. Of course, it will look grand.” Tang Tang went through the whole information, “If not for the crew’s arrangement, the company would have planned to give you a birthday party for fans. Half a year ago, there are fans who asked about the plan.”
 
An Xumo paused, “Then if it didn’t work out, it would have let down the fans?”
 
Tang Tang was amused by his statement, “What makes you think so?”
 
An Xumo pointed to the lists of supports.
 
“Let’s put it this way,” Tang Tang explained after laughing, “Birthday parties are indeed an opportunity for people who have traffic to consolidate their popularity and give back to their fans. This is also quite popular in the circle but not doing it can never be said to be a fault.”
 
“What’s more, you can’t get away because of Ma Lao’s several billions worth of movies. Fans are now more enthusiastic than the crew at the box office count, so how can you feel you’ve let them down?”
 
An Xumo is still at a loss, “But this……isn’t it all something what I’m supposed to do?”
 
“Yeah,” Tang Tang said. “You work to attract them so what fans want to see most is also the way you work hard.”
 
An Xumo did not speak, his expression was slightly stunned.
 
Tang Tang looked at him curiously, “Xiao Mo, what’s the matter with you?”
 
An Xumo was silent for a while before he said softly, “I just didn’t expect…… it turns out that just by doing your job well, you can be liked by others.”
 
Tang Tang was going to say something but when she thought about it and recalled An Xumo’s family background, she swallowed those words back.
 
She reached out and patted the boy’s shoulder, silently comforting him.
 
An Xumo smiled and asked, “Then if I continue to receive better movies or other resources…… will they be happy?”
 
“Definitely,” Tang Tang said with certainty. “The traffic label is only temporary and there are no fans that do not want their idol to become a real powerhouse. Box office, rewards, ratings, films, and television works, fans will even care more than the artists themselves.”
 
“Good.” An Xumo nodded.
 
“I will work hard.”
 
–
On his coming of age birthday, An Xumo’s studio released a new set of intense pictures in collaboration with a leading fashion magazine. In addition, the studio also included a series of benefits activities, including signed magazines and handwritten blessing cards from An Xumo, as a way to give something back to his fans.
 
It wasn’t only the fans and the team who went through the trouble of celebrating his birthday. Since An Xumo was participating in the promotion of his movie on his birthday, the team prepared a big cake for him. The promotional activities themselves were very busy, and An Xumo thought that his blessings would only take up a little time. However, to his surprise, the crew treated him like the main character of the day, and most of the activities were centered on him, celebrating his birthday while promoting the movie.
 
An Xumo only thought that this was the crew’s consideration so he didn’t think too much about it. In addition, everyone present also sent their best wishes for him.
 
The main crew was basically there, only Lin Rui was not present due to scheduling issues. An Xumo realized with hindsight that since the film’s premiere, he hadn’t seen the film emperor.
 
With the movie promotion and birthday celebrations, having been busy for nearly a whole day, this is still the first birthday that An Xumo has received so many blessings. It wasn’t until the promotional activities were about to end that Tang Tang, who came in a hurry, found an opportunity to pull the person alone over to ask a few questions.
 
“An unarranged gift?” An Xumo was a bit puzzled.
 
Tang Tang nodded and lit up the picture on the screen for him to see, “This is a gift sent to various media in your name. At first, when the editor-in-chief of Ming Entertainment sent a message over, I thought they had sent it to the wrong person. As a result, more and more media sent messages later, and many of the media present also received gifts, and they were all of great value.”
 
An Xumo asked, “Brother Shen and the others don’t know either?”
 
“They didn’t know either.” Tang Tang said, “Moreover, with our team’s funding, we definitely can’t afford a gift of this size. Even if we report it to the company for approval, there’s not much chance of success.”
 
An Xumo thought of his own supports, “Could it be done by fans?”
 
“No,” Tang Tang directly shook her head. “We were the first to rule out this possibility, like fans, the drama crew can also support to it. But this kind of resources and contacts in the industry is absolutely impossible for fans to have access to.”
 
As far as she knows, this must be an arrangement made by someone in the circle.
 
“But who would come to give such an expensive gift without even saying hello ah?” Tang Tang really couldn’t understand.
 
Hearing her say this, An Xumo had a faint thought.
 
“The person who sent the gift……did they leave any other information?” An Xumo asked tentatively, “For example, whom assistant is the person giving the gift……”
 
“Huh? No, ai.” Tang Tang was a little confused, “Those who gave it to the media on the spot were on-site staff, the fashion magazines and the like that were not present were delivered to the door by the courier company, leaving only your name and no other information.”
 
An Xumo also paused.
 
Then……it can’t be brother, right.
 
He thought, if it was his brother’s plan, the other party will certainly show his identity, and then reveal to others the intimate relationship between the two.
 
“Forget it; let’s not talk about it first. Go back and check it slowly.” Tang Tang said, “Is the publicity over? Let’s go back to the company first. Brother Shen has prepared a lot of sweet honey for you after asking the doctor, the kind that you can eat even after dinner time.”
 
Fortunately, today’s promotion is in S City and he returned to the company about an hour or so. Pushing open the door of the office, Tang Tang looked at the empty room and was a little surprised, “Yi,¹expression of surprise how come Brother Shen and the others are not here……”

An Xumo followed her in and saw the desk in the room had been cleaned up and was covered with sweet fragrant meals. Thousands of layers of cheese drenched with tempting honey, sweet-scented osmanthus honey brewed in warm water, and many other delicious pastries written all over it. In between the pile of honey desserts, there was also an extremely delicate three-layer cake with eighteen colorful candles set up on top.
 
“Didn’t I say there was only honey water……?” Tang Tang muttered suspiciously, “It’s not like you can eat too much at night……”
 
An Xumo did not hear Tang Tang’s words, his attention was completely attracted by the cake.
 
Tang Tang looked back and saw him staring intently at the largest cake in the middle. She called out to the person, “Xiao Mo?”
 
It was only then did An Xumo come back to his senses, “…… Hmm?”
 
“Do you want to eat this cake?” Tang Tang asked.
 
It’s possible to make an exception today but can’t eat too much. Otherwise, with Xiao Mo’s digestive system, he would still be definitely uncomfortable.
 
She was a little confused. The team clearly stated before the discussion that they only prepared honey to nourish the stomach. In order for Xiao Mo not to have cravings, she deliberately bought only triangular-shaped cupcakes.
 
And yet, where did this big cake come from?
 
“Oh,” An Xumo smiled, “I just thought that the brand of this cake is a bit familiar.”
 
Tang Tang was puzzled, “Brand?”
 
An Xumo pointed to the decoration on the candle and read out the French word above. “This is a Belgian dessert brand. It’s quite rare to see this dessert in China. I don’t remember having this in S City.”
 
Tang Tang was silly stunned, “B-Belgium?”
 
There are so many cake shops in S City. Who is so idle and how can they go to Europe to buy cake?!
 
An Xumo looked at the cake, his voice tinged with a touch of nostalgia, “When I was young, I have eaten these sweets……it’s probably more than ten years ago and I can still remember the taste up to now.”
 
For more than ten years……wasn’t Xiao Mo just five or six years old at that time? How special is its family’s candy that can make people remember for so long? Tang Tang was full of questions, none of which could be answered.
 
“Is this family’s candy very delicious?”
 
An Xumo curved the corners of his lips, “Very sweet.”
 
That is the sweetness that has supported him through these ten years.
 
An Xumo walked over and saw eighteen colored candles, supported by transparent brackets on top of the cake without destroying its shape. He stretched out his hand and used a pair of small scissors on the side to cut off the topmost plastic seal. Soon, the candles were exposed to the air and burned by itself.
 
The flame flickered and the warm light reflected on An Xumo’s face. Tang Tang played 《Happy Birthday》 on her phone and sang softly along with the rhythm.
 
“Happy birthday to you……“²Written in English in the raw. I’ll use bold for English words from now on.
 
After singing the song, Tang Tang stopped An Xumo who was going to blow out the candles, “Make a wish first, Xiao Mo!”
 
“Ah,” An Xumo smiled embarrassedly, “I forgot.”
 
He thought about it, “I already made a wish during the day…… is it possible to make a second wish now?”
 
“During the day?”
 
“Yes, the crew’s cake. I wished for the box office to continue to rise.”
 
Tang Tang laughed in spite of herself, “That kind of wish does not count; you have to make your own wish ah.”
 
An Xumo looked at the cake, “Then I hope, after the age of eighteen, I can find a new self.”
 
He said softly, “I want to learn…… to live for myself.”
 
Tang Tang originally wanted to remind him that wishes could not be said but hearing An Xumo’s last words, she was completely unconcerned about these details.
 
“Thinking of it this way…… it’s really great Xiao Mo.” Tang Tang covered her mouth for a moment and took a deep breath before saying, “I used to think, including Brother Shen, the others were saying that you always look lonely, and don’t have anything you want. That is, what you accomplish is the expectations of others but you don’t have the time to be genuinely happy.”
 
“The way you looked at Brother Zhou before, made people feel quite worried.” Tang Tang’s voice was intermittent as if trying to suppress something. “Later, when they came up to mention that plan, we all felt that it would be detrimental to you. I was worried at that time that you could not stand being treated like this……”
 
She covered her eyes; her voice could wring out water, and repeated incoherently, “It’s really, really great that you can think about yourself……”
 
An Xumo reached out and gave her a light hug.
 
“Don’t cry,” he said with a smile, as soon as Tang Tang cries, she will cry herself to tears.
 
Tang Tang took the tissue from the person’s hand and wiped her tears absent-mindedly before breaking into laughter.
 
“Alas,” she sighed, “I really, I feel that I have taken you for a long time, and I also become a mother fan……”
 
She hadn’t finished her words yet but she saw the boy in front of her suddenly freeze.
 
Tang Tang was taken aback and followed An Xumo’s line of sight, looking over.
 
They were standing in front of the desk with the blown candles, their sides facing the door and their line of sight was mostly blocked. Just now, the birthday song on the phone kept ringing again that they couldn’t hear the sound that came from the door.
 
A man in a long trench coat is standing there with dark eyes and a handsome face. Even the light of the night did not weaken the least bit of his elegant demeanor.
But perhaps the night is too heavy that it seemed to be pushed and intruded without permission from the man at the door, engulfing the light and sweetness of the room in an instant.
 
•·················•·················•
 
The author has something to say:
 
Xiao Mo finally accepted the situation and move on ai, and then it…… _(:3」∠)_

Chapter 83 – Zhou Jinchen has changed

《Different Roads》was released nationwide and the box office finally ended up to 340 million on its first day. In its first week of release, the box office broke through the 1.5 billion mark.
 
Although the news of pre-selling exceeded 100 million had already given the crew a reasonable estimate, when the news really came, it still did not reduce the joy by half. Congratulatory messages from various parties were nonstop and the real-time box office record website had already given a predicted box office of four billion. The official blog was busy sending out posters, the publicity and development team was also busy sending out press releases, and Ma Lao was invited by the CEO of Fang Zhongyou Corporation to have a good banquet.
 
As the second investor after Fang Zhongyou Corporation, the investment company under Zhou Jinchen is also in an exuberant mood. If there were no major mistakes afterwards, according to this momentum, they could even finish a whole year’s performance with this one movie.        
 
When Xin Zimai handed in his report, he also sent a copy of the word-of-mouth ratings. The movie’s current reputation is very good. With Ma Lao’s brand, the movie’s rating had a fairly high base score to begin with. As the week went by, instead of decreasing due to the increase in the number of people, the rating had gone up to 0.1 point because of the turbulence of word-of-mouth.
 
This is already a very impressive achievement.
 
However, there is another point in the review that Xin Zimai has compiled.
 
In Xin Zimai’s opinion, Zhou Jinchen’s decision to take the red carpet was a bit abrupt but the good thing is that the emergency plan quickly launched by his boss, yielded good results.
 
“The public opinion has stabilized,” Xin Zimai said. “We’ve monitored all the comments and the audience’s attention has been drawn as planned.”
 
Zhou Jinchen flipped through the reviews and they were indeed just as Xin Zimai said.
 
After the release of 《Different Roads》, it sparked a lot of discussions. In addition to the restraints of the two protagonists originally planned by the crew, there was also a topic that quickly becomes one of the most dominant voices ——
 
In the post-credits, what was the reason for Ling Sihang to tear up his ticket? Where did he want to go when he left through the airport’s entrance?
 
The issue has sparked an extremely heated discussion on different websites and platforms. With one turn of the message, one can see a long analysis, and every detail is discussed repeatedly. In the absence of the film source, the discussion also virtually increases the audience’s motivation to brush twice or brush even more.
 
Based on the current voices of the whole network, this discussion has three main points of view. The first is that Ling Sihang decided to stay in Lin City, waiting for Ye Qisheng to end his probation after only a few months in prison, and then find each other to have a deep talk. The second point of view, the person who left Ling Sihang behind was Bai Qingchi, who decided to make up for the harm he had caused to the person before. The third point of view is that Ling Sihang left a criminal record and did not want to return to the place where his parents were, intending to find a strange city to slowly recuperate.
 
The third point of view was rejected first because it was difficult to justify it, and the first two points were evenly matched, each occupying half of the rivers and mountains.¹half of the country; a vast swathe of territory; means a vast majority of the people were discussing the two points.As time passed, the number of viewers increased, and the only two remaining points were discussed more and more intensely.
 
Those who held the first view insisted that Ling Sihang had only ever liked Ye Qisheng from beginning to end. Even after ten years, he was constantly defending Ye Qisheng, and even willing to bear being in prison for the other party, which is why he stayed and intended to make his first real confession to Ye Qisheng.
 
Supporters of the second view say that Ling Sihang was already shaken when he first kissed Bai Qingchi in the classroom. That close-up of his eyes when he looked at Bai Qingchi after the plan succeeded is the indication of this. Ten years later, Ling Sihang being a scapegoat was completely trapped by Ye Qisheng, and the two of them had already become strangers and gone on their different roads. Ling Sihang finally decided to give up the past and face up to the true voice in his heart.
 
Fundamentally speaking, the emergence of these two points is actually the two interpretations of the whole film.《Different Roads》is known as a double male-lead film. The two protagonists take up the majority of the scenes, and their relationship with each other is the link between the whole story and its ups and downs. Moreover, Ling Sihang has been withdrawn and silent since childhood. When he was bullied, it was Ye Qisheng who saved and taught him how to make friends with others, that’s why Ling Sihang fell in love with this first friend of his. 
 
As the male counterpart, Bai Qingchi’s scenes were much less compared to the main characters. In the scene ten years later, he only appeared at the end of the film when the witness is revealed. However, although Bai Qingchi did not appear in many shots, he was a significant key character. The spectacular appearance of ballet dance and his unrequited love for Ling Sihang are also impressive.
 
To put it simply, it is indeed in line with the ‘love triangle’ and it’s still the most classic struggle between bamboo horse and the heavenly descent.²suitor that is the heavenly descent can beat his/her original bamboo horse (i.e someone he/she has known since childhood and is compatible; childhood sweetheart), and finally getting married. Although Ma Lao did not have any related ideas when he made the film, the relationship is only added to make the character three-dimensional. But after the movie hit the cinema, it is true that many people have joined the LingYe party and LingBai party, and the arguments between the two sides are extremely heated. They are even more tit-for-tat when discussing the most important plot of the post-credit scene.
 
And at this point, Zhou Jinchen’s performance before the premiere was specifically used for interpretation. LingBai party deliberately write down and magnified it in bold about his speech at the media conference —— “It’s true that there is a very thick arrow between me and Xiao An but this arrow is not one-way, it’s two-way.”
 
Listen, it’s a two-way arrow. What else is there to say, it’s as suitable as a LingBai HE!
 
Moreover, there is the red carpet sequence at the premiere. Lin Rui and the director, Zhou Jinchen and An Xumo, someone on the scene recorded the video but also recorded the words of the director —— “The red carpet sequence is related to the movie”. If this is not an official statement, then what is it? The director stamped it himself!
 
Because of these two ‘arguments’, the LingBai party quickly occupied the high ground, and the LingYe party could not bear to show any weakness, and begun to turn over the details inside and outside the film. All kinds of sugar-picking techniques are at the microscope level which they even refused to let go of even at a glance. In this way, the arguments naturally extend from the film to the outside of the scene. The relationship between Lin Rui, Zhou Jinchen, and An Xumo has also become a very hot topic.
 
Based on the status quo of the domestic entertainment industry, although the power of fans is very strong, there is still a clear difference between the base number and the audience. The three actor’s performance during the interview was basically interpreted as a projection of the movie’s ending. Hence, it makes the fans most sensitive in rubbing bundle heat and the battle for the position was overshadowed.
 
If there is no movie to support, the “two-way arrow” stated by Zhou Jinchen alone would be enough to set off a bloody storm between the two fans, after all, both of them are extremely popular in traffic. However, due to the popularity of《Different Roads》, the influence of the film far exceeds the fans. This kind of friction between the fans has become more important than guessing the official blog’s sending out a few hundreds of millions of posters today.
 
The situation became particularly mild for a while. After receiving such feedback, Xin Zimai who had been monitoring the comments, immediately realized that the plan had been successful.
 
Zhou Jinchen’s purpose is not just to show the public the relationship between the two, the difference in status will inevitably cause disparities between the two sides’ fans. A fan’s war of scolding is undoubtedly a drain for the artist, not to mention An Xumo’s current status as a traffic idol.
 
He said he wouldn’t let An Xumo get hurt and he really did that.
 
But……why would Jinchen change the fundamental purpose of the cooperative promotion plan in the middle of the process? Does this have anything to do with the strange feelings he mentioned?
 
Xin Zimai couldn’t figure it out and tentatively asked, “Jinchen, you said before that you wanted to do psychological counseling, when do you plan to go?”
 
Zhou Jinchen put the report aside and raised his hand to pull out another document bag on the table.
 
“I don’t have the time recently; let’s talk about it in a few days.”
 
He was busy with work and busy with sorting out how he really felt about An Xumo.
 
Xin Zimai took the document bag, “What is this, a new project?”
 
Recently, the company’s main business is not the《Different Roads》ma, how can there be new documents?
 
The document bag was opened and a thick proposal was pulled out.
 
On the cover, there was a line with the title ——
 
《Temporary Plan for the Eighteenth Birthday Celebration》
 
–
 
The shift in public opinion was not only noticed by Zhou Jinchen’s people, as one of the main characters, Lin Rui also quickly received the relevant news.
 
He looked down at the various messages and comments on his phone while his agent on the side was asking, “Brother Rui, should we continue to send out new press releases? The public relations department has already prepared the photos and videos during the filming.”
 
Lin Rui did not say anything, his eyes remained on the screen until the agent waited and was a little confused, and he then spoke, “No need.”
 
The agent was stunned for a moment, “Ah?”
 
Lin Rui locked the screen and put the phone away, “In the future, don’t send any of these two-person circulars, the public relations side will still focus on my part alone.”
 
The agent’s eyes widened and said, “This…..you’re not going to proceed? What about the original plan?”
 
Lin Rui closed his eyes, “Canceled.”
 
The agent did not know whether to be happy or sad for a moment. He did not agree with Lin Rui’s feelings for Zhou Jinchen but the other party persistently refuses to turn back. This is the first time Lin Rui has made such a firm determination, which has been going smoothly to have whatever he wanted. The agent saw that he could not be persuaded, and he could only temporarily restrain it.
 
Unexpectedly……now, it’s Lin Rui who has taken the initiative to give up.
 
The agent cautiously said, “Brother Rui……what happened, why did you suddenly……” changed your mind?
 
Lin Rui whispered, “He already has his heart set on someone else.” (E/N: /pats lin rui)

 
“Who? That little boy?” The agent was a bit puzzled, “Didn’t you say before that they were just doing an act? Just to interfere with our plans or something……”
 
“Originally,” Lin Rui said in a low voice, “it’s different now.”
 
He propped his forehead with his palms and buried his eyes with it.
 
“The way he looks at that boy was already completely different from the beginning.”
 
Perhaps, even Zhou Jinchen himself did not notice but Lin Rui clearly understood what this really meant.
 
And by the time Lin Rui reacted, it was clear to him that he was really out of the question.
 
“I originally thought that it was a natural indifference.”
 
“But I never thought,” Lin Rui’s voice was low and hoarse, his tone was thick with exhaustion, “that someone as cold as him would show such gentle eyes……”

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The author has something to say:
 
Lin Rui and Han Ming are not the same, ha _(:3」∠)_
 
Brother’s progress can be considered fast, right? Are there any students who start writing reports together ma, raise your hand and share a tad bit of suffering?

•·················•·················•

Jie Jie: *raises hands Lol

Welp. I saw your comments and here’s Lin Rui’s response~ This will put your mind at ease now~ qaq I felt sad for him but I still feel sadder for our Xiao Mo.

Chapter 82 – Watching my own kissing scene
 
The long, bright red carpet was spread on the spacious square, dazzling under the sunlight. The most suitable position for taking photos around has long been occupied by a large number of photographers, and their shots flashes are getting longer and longer. Outside the red carpet was crowded with people; the degree of popularity was evident. For this reason, the mall also specially deployed a large number of security teams to ensure the smooth progress of the red carpet.
 
The giant LED screen on the high wall lit up the whole time. The melodious music came from the specially prepared surround sound speaker system. The noisy crowd gradually quieted down, and the countless pairs of eyes turned in the direction at the beginning of the red carpet.
 
The much-anticipated wait was finally answered with a sudden “here it comes!” from the crowd. At the end of the space, separated by the barricade, a car slowly drove over.
 
The red carpet ceremony kicked off.
 
The first to make an appearance were some young actors and actresses in the cast, the young men wearing well-ironed suits and the young ladies wearing elaborate dresses. The two matching artists waved around as they walked towards the end of the red carpet.
 
After the young artists, there were some familiar faces. Unknowingly, the atmosphere in the venue was pushed to the climax little by little.
 
The long-awaited names were also read out by the host at that moment.
 
“Let’s welcome ——”
 
The voices of the crowd instantly became boisterous and there was a lot of screaming in the middle. The black car parked before the red carpet shone low-key and dazzling in the sun but all everyone saw was the man who opened the door and walked out of the car.
 
The dark blue suit was wrapped around a near-perfect body, and the handsome, unparalleled face was as dazzling as the summer sun. The tall, long-legged man stepped on the red carpet as if he was born for this high-profile show.
 
“—— Mr. Zhou Jinchen!”
 
The sound amplified by the microphone was quickly drowned out by screams and the atmosphere was instantly heated to the extreme. The scene even got a little out of control for a while, with the security guards having to hold up the barricades from the inside to prevent the overexcited fans from pushing the thick barricades down.
 
The heated atmosphere did not disturb the main person who had caused the screams. The man waved his hand around but he stood in place and did not leave straightly beside the car.
 
Before everyone had time to wonder, they heard another name in the surrounding speakers.
 
“And Mr. An Xumo!”
 
The atmosphere climaxed again, in a new round of screams, the door on the other side of the car was pushed open. A handsome, delicate boy appeared in front of the crowd, his sky blue suit makes him look purely naïve and elegant, two contradictory temperaments blended together. It was the kind of youthfulness that made people can’t help but be moved.
 
The car slowly drove away and the two people who remained in the same place stood side by side and walked towards the red carpet. There was an endless shuttering and cheering around, and there were fans that were desperately holding up their phones, constantly taking pictures. The two waved around and exchanged a few words from time to time. Even though they did not hold their arms like the previous male-female pair, they walked together in perfect harmony.
 
While fans were overwhelmed by the appearance of their idols, some invited reporters were secretly asking questions.
 
How come it was the two of them walking the red carpet together?
 
This question became even more difficult to understand when Lin Rui and Ma Lao next appeared together. Although the vast majority of the audience was attracted by the appearance of the actors in person, and many reporters were nervously and rapidly recording, there were still people who secretly wrote down these questions and planned to ask them during the interview after the ceremony.
 
But the question was not saved for long before the host took the initiative to ask it.
 
After the crew standing together took a group photo together, they signed their names on the background board. Taking advantage of the time to sign, the host said to the crew, “We know that the movie《Different Roads》is a double male lead film, two main characters are played by Teacher Lin Rui and Teacher Zhou Jinchen. However, just now, we found that when walking the red carpet, it was Teacher Zhou Jinchen and Teacher An Xumo who came together. We would like to ask for the audience ah, is there any special intention for this arrangement?”
 
He turned the microphone toward the several people in the middle of the crew and the nearest An Xumo took the microphone but the person who answered was not him, Ma Lao was coming to the microphone.
 
“Previously, a lot of media told me before that the love triangle in the film was buzzing before it was released.” Ma Lao still has his usual serious face, “I don’t think our crew did it on purpose but since everyone thinks so, we just continued to keep the triangle going until the end.”
 
The host cooperated with a smile, “Oh, just now, I heard a fan friend say it, asking whether this is an indication of the ending of the three people in the film. But seeing the meaning of Elder Ma, this question has to be answered in the movie.”
 
The crew had already almost signed, the host did not delay and said directly, “Then let’s invite the lucky early audience into the cinema. It doesn’t matter if the fans don’t have insider tickets, because tonight at six o’clock,《Different Roads》will be fully screened. Our top floor cinema has already arranged for the screening.”
 
Soon, the crew went through a special channel towards the arranged inner cinema. An Xumo followed the large group with a somewhat stiff back, his fingertips were cold. When he entered the mall, he was blown by the cold wind from the oncoming air conditioner, and the freezing cold was even more painful.
 
Before An Xumo could lower his head to see his fingers, he noticed a cold and sharp gaze.
 
He subconsciously looked up and saw that not far ahead Lin Rui who stepped on the escalator around the corner is looking at him condescendingly from a high level. The other person’s face has long lost his usual gentle smile. At this time, only a frozen piece remained, and even his gaze looked like a sharp ice blade.
 
An Xumo’s movement paused for a while.
 
But before he could react, the man in front of him suddenly stopped.
 
Everyone is walking but Zhou Jinchen took a step back sideways. He did not make extra moves but just stood side by side with An Xumo. The man who was nearly one point nine meters tall immediately blocked An Xumo on his side.
 
The boy was attracted by the other party’s movements, and by the time he realized it, the two had already stepped on the escalator together. He looked up where Lin Rui had already turned his head and withdrawn his eyes.
 
An Xumo clenched his fingers and felt that his hands and feet seemed to be getting colder.
 
After taking a photo with the insiders who had advanced viewing of the movie on the stage, the crew walked off the stage and sat on the reserved row of seats. The lights dimmed and the venue was left with only the glow of the screen. Soon, it was time for the opening of the film’s dragon logo and its distribution company.
 
After a short period of silence, a leather suitcase suddenly appeared on the screen.
 
“Sihang, here! Here!”
 
Ling Sihang who was pulling the suitcase waved towards his old friend, who picked him up at the airport. After a long absence of a hug, the two got into the car together. The lush green plants flashed hurriedly outside the car window and the old friend driving the car knocked on the steering wheel, “Sihang, the case you told me about……what is it about?”
 
“Ten years ago,” Ling Sihang’s voice was slightly lowered, “it was just assisting in the investigation, nothing major.”
 
“That’s fine, I was shocked ne.” The old friend joked, “It’s not easy for our big Dr. Ling to finally come back once, so why did he get called by the police station?”
 
Ling Sihang hooked up his lips and said lightly, “The police station is not the problem.”
 
“Huh?”
 
“The problem is the person whom I met at the police station.”
 
“Who is it? Isn’t it just the police inspector in the bureau ma.” The old friend reacted after speaking. He couldn’t help but look at Ling Sihang from the rear-view mirror, “No, it will not be that one……”
 
“Yes.” Ling Sihang finished and looked out the window.
 
“Ye Qisheng.”
 
At the same time, the name was pronounced, the camera pulled up, and the bridge surrounded by lush trees appeared on the screen with two big words “Different Roads”. The direction of the highway extension is Lin City.¹I used Lincheng (cheng means city) before. I’ll check it on previous chapters and edit when I have the time. Apologies
 
An Xumo sat on his seat and tilted his head to look at the giant full-frame screen. A scene that he had once observed up close was replayed on the screen, and it is only when he made such a comparison that he deeply appreciated the role of the director and the editing.
 
Some of the shots which he had obviously watched on the location were now presented in a perspective he never imagined. Although An Xumo has not yet had an in-depth understanding of the film, just watching these shots, he could feel the power of Ma Lao.
 
Ma Lao has given each shot a unique and effective purpose.
 
The Lin City murder case involves an old accident ten years ago. When the image was turned, the slightly old Lin City Middle School class bell rang. An Xumo quietly watched, and his heartbeat slightly accelerated.
 
Soon it will be…… Bai Qingchi’s scene.
 
“Little brother, are you alone ah?” Zhao Jiujiu’s frivolous and insincere voice sounded and Bai Qingchi wearing a turtleneck sweater in his school uniform appeared on the camera. He frowned, turned his head away in disgust, and hurriedly walked in the other direction.
 
Zhao Jiujiu stood in place and stared at the person’s slender and tall back, and smiled maliciously. His purpose was someone else, that’s why he didn’t go after him.
 
He looked back at the school entrance and soon, Ye Qisheng, carrying a shoulder bag came out.
 
An Xumo quietly breathed a sigh of relief.
 
Qian Lingyuan’s acting skills are superb and he vividly portrayed Zhao Jiujiu’s feeling of being disgusting to look at. In contrast, An Xumo has much less acting experience but fortunately, after the training within the crew and the processing of the camera, his performance is still considered to be able to pass.
 
As the film continued, the main story gradually unfolded. The struggle between life and death, the desperate screaming were presented, and the kissing scene to fake the break-up between the two also successfully triggered a burst of exclamation in the venue.
 
While Bai Qingchi on the screen took the initiative to tug at Ling Sihang’s collar, An Xumo on his seat wanted to find a crack in the ground.
 
This feeling of watching your own kissing scene is really…… too refined, especially when Zhou Jinchen who was kissing him is sitting next to him at this time.
 
The light in the cinema is dim, and the others’ expressions could not be seen clearly. An Xumo also did not dare to look sideways, his face was burning hot, and his breathing was softened.
 
He was so nervous that the side of his face kept burning and didn’t notice the fiery gaze coming from the side.
 
It was only when the film was nearing its end that the temperature on An Xumo’s face dropped a little.
 
The evidence was delivered, the truth came to light, the loud hammer sounded, and the two main characters were each sentenced to the final decision. The moment the two brushed past each other, it was captured in slow motion, and their eyes turned back. They were already the most familiar strangers.
 
At the end of the film, the person who sent the key evidence is revealed. Bai Qingchi leads a little boy to meet Ling Sihang. After the conversation, Bai Qincghi turned away without regret but his efforts to disguise himself were broken by childish cries of pain.
 
In the end, only one person was left standing on the streets lush with green, as the Lin City name suggests, warm and cold forest street.²lush: verdant and lush. Lin: woods, forest
 
The credits appeared, the lights came on, and the cinema erupted in applause. The creators rose again to greet the audience, the premiere should have ended here but because of the prior reminder, no one left the cinema immediately.
 
At the end of the movie, after a brief period of darkness, the screen lit up again.
 
Inside the spacious and bright terminal, Ling Sihang, carrying his suitcase was holding a boarding pass. He looked at the transatlantic ticket for a long time, but suddenly reached out his hand and tore the boarding pass into four.
 
He threw the pieces into the trash can, dragged his suitcase, and walked quickly towards the entrance of the terminal.
 
The screen went black and this time, the film really ended.

Chapter 81 – Brother’s straight ball¹this just means he’s being straightforward or like going forward/directly.

On the day of the premiere ceremony, An Xumo met Zhou Jinchen whom he hadn’t seen for thirteen days.

The ceremony took place in the central business district of S City and the whole ceremony lasted nearly a full day. The main creative team and key characters of the film were all present. As an important supporting character in the movie, An Xumo stood next to Zhou Jinchen again.

The habit of counting the days of not seeing the person had been retained a long time ago but by now, this habit seems to have somewhat changed. However, An Xumo was still aware of his most important task, and he has never shown any abnormality in front of outsiders.

The day before the ceremony, An Xumo received a notice of the relevant process. The first press conference, followed by a red carpet, and waited until three o’clock when the cinema premiered, and the insiders’ audience attending the ceremony can watch the film in advance. At six o’clock in the evening,《Different Roads》will be released in cinemas nationwide.

Press conferences are a cliché. After so much training and practical rehearsal, An Xumo has become quite proficient in dealing with interviews. The afternoon viewing did not require much worrying. After a brief interaction, they were left with the matter of watching the box office.

The only thing that made An Xumo paid attention to was the red carpet ceremony before the cinema premiere. The sequence of walking the red carpet was not stated in the process, he was somewhat uncertain.

In the end, Tang Tang asked the crew, and the other side said that the others have to wait for Ma Lao and the two main characters to finish walking on the red carpet.

Then there is nothing to worry about.

The weather on Saturday was great, the snow-white clouds brought some shade and the temperature wasn’t so high that it was unbearable. Therefore, the audience and fans waiting in the square were much more relaxed.

The event’s launch was held in a large, spacious conference room, and the enthusiasm of the media in attendance was no less than that of the fans outdoors. The conference hall was packed with people but fortunately, the venue was well organized that the whole conference could go smoothly.

An Xumo sat next to Zhou Jinchen, basically very close in the middle. The shutter sounded one after another and the reporters who had their turn at the microphone were constantly asking questions.

Some of these questions are for the movie and some are for the individuals. Because of the popularity of their relationship, the number of questions thrown to An Xumo was not small, and the content of the questions is not only about the film. In the middle of the conference, he was also asked specifically what he thought about the recently rumored love triangle between him and the two leads.

The eyes in the room were focused and their gaze was as hot as the camera. An Xumo first couldn’t help but laugh and held the microphone for a moment before saying, “This question should be divided into two situations.”

“In the film, my relationship with the two teachers is more complicated. For the time being, it still needs to be kept secret, later on……” He looked around, seeing Zhou Jinchen next to him, he directly turned his wrist and lit up the dial²watch’s faceto him.

“En, in another four hours, you’ll get the answer.”

An Xumo didn’t speak fast which is obviously different from his performance when he first debuted. Slowing down his speed can give people a little more time to think, as well as stimulate the appetite of the listener.

“As for off-screen performance, there’s no need to keep this question a secret.”

Everyone’s attention was focused including the others in the creative seat. An Xumo smiled and said. “But the answer is not the love triangle you just said, between me and the two teachers……”

He gestured with his hand to himself and the two main actors on his right, “It should be the single arrow I have for the two of them, the kind that is very thick and coarse.”

There was a burst of laughter in the venue. An Xumo waited, he expressed some more of his admiration for the two main actors, and how well they took care of him. Although it can’t be said to be a perfect answer, it was a quite decent answer for an artist of his age.

When the question was successfully uncovered and he was finally able to put down the microphone, An Xumo quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

He was about to pass the microphone back but the man beside him took it over in advance. Zhou Jinchen did not wait for the next question after he got the microphone but directly said, “I want to make a statement.”

His voice was very recognizable and as soon as he opened his mouth, he attracted everyone’s attention.

“It’s true that there is a very thick arrow between me and Xiao An.” He pointed to himself and the boy beside him, “but this arrow is not one-way, it’s two-way.”

There was still a noisy atmosphere around him but An Xumo felt a sudden silence around him. He was a beat late to make a surprised expression, then smiled embarrassedly and concealed himself.

Zhou Jinchen’s statement made the media present happy. This is the kind of scene that they like to see. Moreover, Zhou Jinchen had already taken a stand, and Lin Rui, the only one left, is supposed to speak up as well. The crowd moved their eyes over to look at Lin Rui on stage, indeed he really picked up another microphone.

But just when the media was expecting Film Emperor Lin’s speech, Ma Lao who was sitting in the middle spoke, “Alright, you guys don’t have to blow³boasteach other up. Haven’t you praised each other enough during the filming?”

He directly signaled the staff, “Next question.”

No matter what others think, An Xumo is really relieved.

Even if he knew that his brother was acting, An Xumo could accept his words. However, if it’s the Film Emperor who speaks up……

An Xumo felt that he really couldn’t bear it.

The press conference lasted for more than two hours and the media who had received enough materials and red packets, left with satisfaction. The main creative team went back to recuperate and wait for the time for the red carpet in the afternoon.

An Xumo sat in the lounge to eat lunch and waited for the makeup artist to come. But before the makeup artist came, Tang Tang pushed open the door of the lounge first.

“Xiao Mo!” The lounge was quite small, only An Xumo and Xiao Zhang were inside. Tang Tang closed the door with the back of her hand and directly said, “There was just a notice that the order of the red carpet might change. Remember to follow the instructions ah, don’t miss the order.”

An Xumo was stunned, “What was it changed to?”

“It’s still unclear,” Tang Tang shook her head. “It seems like they’re still discussing over there, so I only talked about listening to the command at the scene.”

An Xumo’s heart could not help but give birth to a premonition.

……no way, right.

In an office not far from this lounge, three people are sitting at a conference table discussing the order of the red carpet.

“The producer who said he was stuck in traffic, looking at the current conditions in the road, it’s unlikely that he will be able to arrive in time.” Ma Zechi pointed his right hand on the table, looking at Zhou Jinchen and Lin Rui. “The producer was originally supposed to go with Jinchen but now he can’t come. In order to balance the position of the two of you, this order may have to change.”

“There are two options now. One is to keep it the same and find someone else for Jinchen and the other is that my Father goes with the others and you two go side by side.”

The first option is obviously riskier and the role of going with the director is definitely more important. Originally, there was a producer who went with another person, and there would be not much difference in their treatment. But now that the producer is not here, Zhou Jinchen who fell off the order will appear a little subtle. 

Moreover, as a dual male lead film,《Different Roads》has to measure the exposure of the two leads. Once there is an imbalance, it’s not just a matter of whether the actor themselves will care about it but in front of the media, any little relevant issues will be magnified a hundred times.

Lin Rui said, “Otherwise, I’ll join with Jinchen.”

“Then, who can we find to join my father?” Ma Zechi frowned. “This candidate is more difficult. There are no special guests in the crew and there is no important female role. It’s really hard to find.”

With Ma Lao here, Ma Zechi himself will not be on the red carpet. He appeared in the crew and followed in the previous journey to substitute for Ma Lao but the film is not Ma Zechi’s work, and he has not left his name anywhere in the film.

Although he has a good temper, in the end, Ma Zechi is Ma Lao’s son. They have the same stubbornness and persistence.

Zhou Jinchen glanced at them, “I’ll find someone else. Teacher Lin and Ma Lao should not be changed.”

Ma Zechi asked, “Then, who will you look for?”

In fact, Zhou Jinchen’s candidate was just as difficult to find. Otherwise, Ma Zechi would not have specifically called the two of them to discuss.

Lin Rui frowned and said first, “This choice is not as good as us together. It might be a bit easier to find someone for Ma Lao.”

“It’s not hard for me either.” Zhou Jinchen did not look at him and said directly, “Moreover, I already have a candidate in mind.”

Ma Zechi froze, “You mean……Xiao An?”

Lin Rui was faintly annoyed and his words were much more straightforward than usual. “Jinchen, no matter what you do usually, this is the premiere ceremony. If you look for Xiao An, his level is so far behind Ma Lao, it’s still out of balance……”

“Moreover, it does not necessarily need the same status to be the reason for walking the red carpet together.” Hearing Lin Rui’s words, Zhou Jinchen still looked indifferent. Only when he heard Lin Rui accused An Xumo of not being qualified did his eyes sank slightly.

Ma Zechi saw that the situation was so stiff that he had no choice but to say, “What do you mean Jinchen, is there any other reason?”

Zhou Jinchen raised his eyes to look at him, “Previously, when Director Zhang filmed the《Heavenly Affairs》, didn’t he walk the red carpet with Sister Sun Ming?”

Ma Zechi was shocked and couldn’t believe his ears.

“You……this, Sister Sun Ming is Director Zhang’s wife, you mean……It wouldn’t be……”

Zhou Jinchen only said faintly, “Yes.”

Lin Rui’s eyes widened incredulously and the tone of his voice rose uncontrollably, “There’s a limit to joking, right? Do you know what you’re talking about?!” 

The always gentle and elegant Lin Rui finally tore his disguise in pain. Lin Rui thought that he had seen through Zhou Jinchen’s acting and didn’t care about the other party’s disguise with An Xumo. He did not stop the plan to have his agent sent out various displays of feelings on circulars, insisting on using the public opinion in hopes to catalyze the relationship between the two. But now, Zhou Jinchen is moving further and further away from what he wanted, his initiative towards An Xumo is simply more obvious than Lin Rui’s towards Zhou Jinchen!

In contrast, Zhou Jinchen who was sitting on a soft chair was cool-headed to the point of being almost cold.

“I know.”

Lin Rui was so angry that he couldn’t speak, his chest rose and fell sharply, and his fists were clenched extremely tight. In the end, he still failed to hold down his emotions, pushed his chair away, walking towards the door, and slamming it with a ‘clang’.

“……” Ma Zechi who was left behind had some unpleasant feelings inside.

He looked at Zhou Jinchen with a complicated expression, “If you use this kind of reason……do you understand the consequences?”

Zhou Jinchen nodded.

Ma Zechi said, “This is not a problem for you alone. Have you discussed it with Xiao An? Have you thought about what kind of attacks he will face……”

“I haven’t had a chance to discuss it yet but it won’t happen as you said.” Zhou Jinchen lightly said, “I have already prepared a plan.”

After being aware of his own difference, Zhou Jinchen had completely made a comprehensive revision and improved his and An Xumo’s cooperative publicity plan. The plan which was originally used to stop Lin Rui’s plan had changed its most fundamental purpose.

The thing that Ma Zechi mentioned, he had already made a thorough consideration.

Just hearing what he said that Ma Zechi frowned. Zhou Jinchen’s fans’ combat ability is notoriously strong, he obviously didn’t believe it.

Zhou Jinchen did not explain too much and only said, “Things are not what you think; you will know the details when the time comes. I promise it will not affect the crew.”

Ma Zechi was still a bit hesitant, “Even if you can handle it, then, if Lin Rui became impulsive……”

“Even if he is impulsive, Teacher Lin will not make any excessive movements.” Zhou Jinchen’s tone remained incomparably calm. “You should know him; with his self-esteem, he will not allow himself to discredit a junior.”

Even during the period when the publicity was at its hottest, Lin Rui did not take the initiative to attack An Xumo.

Ma Zechi and Lin Rui have known each other for a long time but he could believe this. However, even if he understood this matter, Ma Zechi could not help but sigh a little.

“Jinchen, you, treating Lin Rui like this……” Ma Zechi smiled bitterly “Don’t you think it’s a little too heartless?”

Especially in comparison with An Xumo.

This time, Zhou Jinchen wrinkled his eyebrows. “This is the normal choice ba.”

“As a friend, I will try my best to whatever Teacher Lin needs me to do.” He said, “But only this matter is impossible. All I can tell him is the most straightforward rejection.”

“Forget it,” Ma Zechi shook his head. “I’d better not get involved with the business between the two of you.”

He got up and walked outside, “I’ll notify the receiving staff. You get ready and go change your clothes.” 

Before opening the door, he looked back at the person and whispered, “I hope……Lin Rui won’t do anything stupid.”

Zhou Jinchen watched the other party leave and also stood up from his chair.

He lowered his eyes and looked at his opened palm.

Even if Lin Rui really did something, what could he do?

Zhou Jinchen closed his right hand.

He had absolute certainty that Lin Rui would not harm An Xumo for a single moment.

With a soft sound, the room became empty again. Zhou Jinchen called out to a staff member who was passing by.

“Which lounge is An Xumo in?”

•·················•·················•

The author has something to say:

Brother’s arrangement will be discussed next; the thoughtful and sensible persona will not collapse. Mua mua

Chapter 80 – Can’t say after being clear-headed

Tang Tang held An Xumo’s phone, carefully and repeatedly looked at it many times before she dared to believe her eyes.

She turned her eyes back to An Xumo, her gaze was dulled with astonishment, “You, what major did you apply for?”

An Xumo said, “Mathematics.”

Tang Tang: “……?”

She looked at the person for a long time but could not find the slightest sign that the other party was joking.

Tang Tang repeated, “What did you apply for?”

“Mathematics,” An Xumo was a little puzzled, “what’s the matter?”

“Nothing……” Tang Tang’s look has not recovered yet. “I just felt like your interest has changed a lot this year……”

The person who enrolled in the Mathematics department ran to the entertainment industry to become an entertainer……

She asked another question, “You took the exam last year ba, what was your total score?”

An Xumo reported a score. Tang Tang grew up with him in S City and knew a little about the college entrance examination results, this number once again shook her down.

“This score……you, what’s your ranking in the city?”

Heavens! The company won’t turn a top student back, right……

“Eighth.” 

“Oh.” Tang Tang doesn’t know whether to be lost or relieved but even if it’s not the first rank, eighth is already very impressive.

This is the overall ranking of the whole S City ah. Tang Tang can’t still react to the shock. Xiao Mo is too deeply hidden……

“The first top seven have the same score as the top student and I’m one point behind them.” An Xumo did not notice Tang Tang’s strangeness and he spoke in a very unusual tone, “The Chinese literature is relatively high so the total ranking is higher.”

Tang Tang just put down her little heart again that almost jumped out of her mouth.

“You, you you……”

She couldn’t help but twist her expression for a moment and her voice seemed to come out of her teeth, “You have this score……why did you sign as a trainee in the beginning……”

He also said that studying is meaningless, is this score that a person who felt no interest can get these results from an exam ma?! (E/N: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA MAAAAA) 
An Xumo smiled lightly, he said softly, “At that time, I was not in a good mood, and when I saw the project announcement to the public by Jin Dian, I thought that maybe a change of direction will be a little better so I came to sign up.”

Tang Tang sensed his gloomy mood and didn’t continue to ask questions. She knew at that time was when An Xumo driven out of the Zhou family, it was normal that his emotions could not adjust for a while.

She simply found a new topic, “Then, Xiao Mo, you really like math? Generally speaking, the first thing you should consider is financial management and the like, right. Have you ever thought about applying for these?”

P University’s School of Management is a nationally renowned top student harvester and with An Xumo’s ranking, there shouldn’t be a problem getting in. However, if An Xumo really likes mathematics, Tang Tang thought, Xiao Mo should also find some of his own hobbies. Seeing how his movements increase every day, it always makes people feel a little heartache.

However, An Xumo paused for a long time before saying, “…… have thought of it, kind of.”

Kind of, what kind of answer is this?

Tang Tang was wondering about the other party’s attitude but An Xumo took the lead to change the subject. He put the phone back and asked, “Do you still need me to take the college entrance exam again? If I were to go to an art school, I have to transfer my school registration back from P University in advance.”

Tang Tang’s attention was drawn to him, “Your school registration is still at P University? That means you can go straight to school when you get back?”

“Not now,” An Xumo said, “I want to go with the next term.”

It’s okay to go with the next term, ah because Xiao Mo is not too old. But if he went to the mathematics department, will it conflict with Xiao Mo’s future work ba? Tang Tang thought, feeling a little tangled.

According to the current mainstream trend, art schools are the best choice for most artists. It’s just that the attraction of this P University sign is too strong. If it was any other school, just give it up, but this is P University ah……

Tang Tang couldn’t decide for a while, she asked An Xumo, “What do you think?”

An Xumo shook his head, “I can go anywhere, see which company can pass it.”

The accident of filling out the application at that time still makes him uncomfortable. Besides, it’s not that difficult for him to take the college entrance examination again. Moreover, An Xumo knew very well that he had signed the most demanding trainee contract with Jin Dian and there were many things that were not up to him to decide.

Tang Tang thought about it, “Then I’ll go and discuss it with Brother Shen and the others first. I’ll bring it to you when there’s a plan.”

Shen Mingze is the person in charge of the company’s team for An Xumo and he was the one discussing with Tang Tang about any important matters.

An Xumo agreed, “Good.”

—

On this side, An Xumo’s team is making a painful and happy choice for their family’s child’s dream of either going to P University or Jingdian Academy, while people around Zhou Jinchen are going through deep water and scorching fire.¹abyss of suffering]

It was not until Xin Zimai who had been ‘blood book petitioned’¹letter written in one’s own blood, expressing determination, hatred, last wishes, etc by several people, rushed back from the investment company, that certain someone finally broke the two-meter boundary around Zhou Jinchen.

“Boss, energy is limited and work is unlimited.” Xin Zimai said politely after listening to the cries of his team. “No matter how much is given, human beings still need sleep.”

Zhou Jinchen didn’t even give him a look and just stared at the computer in front of him. The white light emanating from the screen hung over his face, making the already handsome and compelling man even more a thousand miles resistant.

It shouldn’t be ah……Xin Zimai was a little confused. Isn’t these two days just a rare free time between their rounds of busyness? Otherwise, he would not be able to temporarily get away from Jin Dian to take care of Zhou Jinchen’s new investment company.

Could there be another reason? Thinking about it, Xin Zimai remembered the previous incident.

“You……did you have another nightmare again?” Xin Zimai asked hesitantly.

Zhou Jinchen still did not speak but was finally willing to take off his eyes from the screen.

Xin Zimai felt that he had guessed right and asked, “Then, why didn’t you call Xiao An?”

As he was speaking, he remembered another thing, “Oh, by the way, didn’t I talk to you about living together before ma, what do you think about it? Tang Tang said Xiao An is still living in the company’s dormitory and you two happen to be in the same building.”

Zhou Jinchen was silent for a moment. When he finally opened his mouth amidst Xin Zimai’s questioning gaze, he talked about something else.

“How many days are left for the premiere of 《Different Roads》?”

Xin Zimai was stunned by this rapidly changing topic but he quickly said, “There are only a few days left, isn’t it just this Saturday?”

Zhou Jinchen said, “The location of the premiere ceremony?”

Xin Zimai gave out an address and curiously said, “Are you worried about the movie? This should be fine, I asked the crew before. The pre-selling on the first day has already exceeded a hundred million; there should be no problem with the premiere.”

It coincides with the golden summer season, it’s still the weekend. Despite having entered the tensest countdown phase, the whole crew was still relatively optimistic about the box office.

Zhou Jinchen replied by pulling up his memo on his computer and set up a reminder on the day of the premiere.

Xin Zimai still wanted to say something but he heard Zhou Jinchen say, “Tell them that those who don’t have a task, doesn’t need to work overtime with me and come back when they have a task.”

“Good.” Xin Zimai answered, “I’ll take a look. You should pay attention to yourself and rest.”

Before leaving, he remembered about the nightmare, “Ah, right, Jinchen, you really don’t need to call Xiao An over? I just met Tang Tang on the second floor, she said Xiao An is being interviewed and will be back in an hour or so.”

The man with a straight back inside the room did not turn around. His voice was as cold and hard as the arc of his back, “No need.”

With a soft ‘click’ the door was closed by Xin Zimai who had left the room. Zhou Jinchen at the desk looked at the complicated reports on the screen but he couldn’t see a single value.

He raised his hand and rubbed his temples, propping up the side of his face with one hand, his eyes drooping.

The nightmare was still there but no one could be called over. Xin Zimai had said before that after his drunkenness, he had called over and told the person that and An Xumo was ignoring him.

Although the fact remains unchanged, it even became increasingly worse. Nevertheless, this is something that Zhou Jinchen could not say to others when he was sober.

So now, he can only be stuck here alone in vain, tasting the growing strangeness of An Xumo’s intentional avoidance of him.