Chapter 1 A Brief Encounter

Every profession experiences a period of fatigue. Yan Cai has acted for over ten years and has been popular for a decade. It is not unreasonable that in recent years, he has not been as dedicated.

Although Xie Minglang has not been in the industry for long, he has heard a little about Ge Huai's "achievements". Upon hearing Meng Yu say this, he merely smiled and said: "After you started the interview, I pretended to be mute, putting on an appearance of being diligent, humble, and willing to work hard without complaint, striving to make him satisfied."

Ge Huai needs to review the manuscript, and this kind of photo will definitely not pass. It will have to be redone, but who will do it

On that day, he was wearing a gray sweater paired with brown trousers. At first glance, he appeared to be of a similar age to Xie Minglang. When Meng Yu saw him get up, she quickly stepped forward to shake his hand, smiling as she exchanged pleasantries: "Every time I interview here, I always trouble you to wait. I truly apologize for that"

The interview location is the lobby of a hotel, which is the best in the city. Over the years, the extravagant decorations have faded, revealing a more refined elegance. Meng Yu and Ge Huai walk ahead, chatting and laughing, their eyes fixed straight ahead. Xie Minglang follows behind; although he knows he should behave like Meng Yu, it is his first time in such a high-end venue, and he cannot help but glance around curiously.

It is indeed a good habit. How do you feel upon meeting the real Yan Cai?

At this moment, it was rather the reporter Meng Yuchen who remained composed, pointing to the newcomer Xie Minglang, who was sitting in the corner dealing with trivial matters, and said: "Minglang, come with me."

They discussed Yan Cai's recent film. In the film, he plays a high school mathematics teacher whose spiritedness has been worn down by years of monotonous life. The structure of the film is straightforward, with few characters and no grand scenes. In every aspect, it is completely different from Yan Cai's own temperament and the style of the projects he usually chooses

Xie Minglang walked towards the kitchen and said, "I haven't even looked at this photo myself. After I finish eating, let's take a look together. Would you like to have a bite to eat with me?"

As soon as the door was opened, Pan Feifei approached with a beaming smile and said: "You are back. I have prepared a late-night snack, go eat it first, otherwise it will get cold. Can I take a look at the photos?"

Then why not find a photographer from the company who is not picky, like Ge Huai? It would be better to take Minglang along; he is unaware of his background, and perhaps it will turn out to be a safe endeavor. Think about it, at this point, we cannot suddenly call and say that we can no longer proceed with this interview

"This is a serious approach to work," Meng Yu complimented. At this point, she recalled another matter and, taking advantage of Yan Cai's good mood, asked, "I heard that you are going to take on a stage play, is that true?"

You can see for yourself

A few days later, the magazine was published. On the same day, Xie Minglang received a call from Pan Feifei, who was studying in a different city. Her excited tone was almost piercing to his eardrums: "The photos of Yancai were all taken by you? These photos are so well taken, it's as if she is a completely different person. You must have kept some extras, right? There must be more than just these two! Minglang, please keep these photos for me, you must!"

Did you not just say that he is a good actor? Surely he is not merely putting on a show

Compared to the main creators, Yan Cai dresses very casually. If an ordinary person were to dress this way, they would likely be regarded as an unrelated staff member. However, because he is Yan Cai, no matter what he wears, he always becomes the focal point of everyone's attention

He shook his head, facing the astonishment of the graphic designer and others present, and said: "He is no longer a young man in his twenties. The photos and the content of the interview are not contradictory; I intentionally did not edit them."

The editor-in-chief, after considering the consequences, felt a slight chill run down his spine. It was at this moment that he turned his gaze to Xie Minglang, who had previously been treated as if he were invisible: "Xiao Xie, I remember that your photographs were quite good."

I will be spending my weekend ... ...

The person they referred to as Ge Huai is indeed the manager of Yan Cai, who is renowned in the entertainment industry for being exceptionally kind. He treats everyone with such courtesy that it is hard to believe he is a superstar at the height of his fame. The well-known rumor in the industry is that no matter how difficult or sharp-tongued the journalist may be, after interviewing Yan Cai, they will invariably speak highly of him and defend him without exception. However, despite Yan Cai's excellent reputation both inside and outside the industry, the mention of his manager is sure to make all journalists grit their teeth in frustration.

Just now, a few of their words made Xie Minglang feel alarmed and uneasy, not knowing how Meng Yu dared to vouch for him like that. However, when the moment came, he could not show any signs of fear and quickly grasped Ge Huai's hand: "It's a pleasure to meet you for the first time, I am Xie Minglang. I have long heard of Mr. Ge's great reputation, and today I am fortunate to meet you for the first time. I hope we can cooperate happily."

Xie Minglang suddenly recalled the scene from the interview: Yan Cai was entirely focused on Meng Yu, not giving him a shred of attention. His expression was concentrated, and his demeanor was graceful. However, even so, the wrinkles at the corners of his eyes and on his forehead were exposed under the camera's scrutiny

They arrived at a quiet corner, where Yan Cai was reading a newspaper. Upon seeing Meng Yu, he smiled, put down the newspaper, and stood up: "Miss Meng."

Xie Minglang realized that following Meng Yu to interview Yan Cai was an opportunity provided by Sister Meng to support him. However, seeing the expression on the chief editor's face, he felt that something was amiss. As he hesitated in his mind, he suddenly heard the chief editor call out, and in a moment of reflex, he blurted out: "It's not that great..."

There is no ` but ' . '' Xie Minglang spoke sternly

Meng Yu laughed heartily: "That is for sure. You should consider that most of the movies he makes are aimed at deceiving young girls; the makeup artist has to work extremely hard to apply the makeup, and the lighting technician also has to put in a lot of effort to set the lighting."

The weekend event is the premiere of a film by an emerging director. Although this is only the second film, it has garnered significant attention and popularity due to the reputation of the previous work, making the premiere a star-studded affair, leaving many reporters with countless rolls of film to develop.

The interview was conducted by the club's ace reporter, accompanied by a top-notch cameraman. However, unfortunately, on the morning of the exclusive interview, the cameraman called to say that he had been in a car accident on his way to work and was already in the hospital

Chen Cheng helplessly waved his hand and said, "If it gets thrown back by Ge Huai, you will accompany me to work overtime"

Yan Cai first chatted with the director and screenwriter for a while, then waved to the screaming fans before turning towards the photographers. He wrapped his arm around the waist of the leading actress, while his other hand rested on the director's shoulder, and the three of them smiled together. In an instant, countless flashes lit up, making this corner of the theater as bright as day

Xie Minglang appreciated the good camera work, and only then did he realize that Yan Cai's movements were very restrained. When speaking, he would never gesticulate wildly, nor would he simply remain seated in one place. When he was in high spirits, he would occasionally make a gesture, and his posture was both natural and elegant, making him truly photogenic

Meng Yu did not expect the situation to turn out this way, and naturally shifted her gaze to Xie Minglang's face. The latter said nothing, but his calm and resolute demeanor spoke volumes.

Pan Feifei did not take it seriously, giving him a playful shove and continuing to watch with a smile. When she reached the last picture, she suddenly froze, and after a moment, she grabbed Xie Minglang's sleeve and exclaimed, "This one, please give me a copy of this one, I want to use it for the poster!"

The implication of protection in the words is already quite evident. Chen Cheng's expression darkened, and in the end, he nodded: "Since you say so, I have nothing more to say."

Who knows? Don't tell me you didn't keep a copy for yourself. You narcissist, you keep everything. I only kept these photos for myself, not to sell them for money, you surely trust me...

Thus, Meng Yu looked at Yan Cai's photos once again. After examining them closely, she finally said: "I did not expect him to be captured in this way. I think they are great, so let's use these."

Two people laugh together

Indeed, it seems no one expected him to become a model worker. I am simply very curious about his decision to take on a stage play.

They arrived at the designated hotel half an hour before the agreed time. As soon as they got out of the car, they saw Ge Huai, glanced at his watch, and smiled at Meng Yu, saying: "Reporter Meng is still punctual"

Due to familiarity, some irrelevant small talk was made first, and the conversation even included playful banter about Meng Yu and her boyfriend, creating a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere

The photographers raised their cameras and shouted as fervently as the fans, which suddenly made Xie Minglang, who was in the midst of it all, feel a sense of absurdity. Although he did not shout, he was still somewhat stirred by the rising and falling cheers, causing his hands to tremble several times.

In the second month after Xie Minglang's internship at "Silver Screen," he encountered the living embodiment of Yan Cai

She then mentioned the film for which Yan Cai received a nomination for the Golden Statue Award. This is the "typical" film that Yan Cai would take on: a poignant and artistic piece, featuring top-notch direction and a stellar cast, which, after its release, achieved remarkable box office success, with critics left with little to criticize, or if they did, Yan Cai was always commendable.

She asked Yan Cai to evaluate her performance in the two films. Yan Cai replied: "I am an actor, and I am very interested in trying out any style of film. However, like most people, I also enjoy work that I am familiar with. Both are part of my work, and it is precisely because they complement each other that this profession feels interesting to me"

Yan Cai lit a cigarette and continued to smile. Xie Minglang was secretly astonished at how one could smoke in such a place, when he saw a waiter approaching. However, upon recognizing the person at the table, the waiter retreated. He thought to himself that this was the privilege of a favored person, and he took another photo of Yan Cai smoking. At that moment, Yan Cai spoke again, with a hint of jest, and indeed said something humorous: "Miss Meng, you are at work, how can you indulge in personal matters?"

Meng Yuxiao: "Your sister specifically entrusted you to me, how could I not take care of you? However, you must be truly cautious. Ge Huai is indeed a difficult person to deal with"

At this point, he put away his smile and focused intently on Meng Yu's gaze. Meng Yu was taken aback for a moment and nodded, "Indeed."

Is it necessary to feel satisfied only by knowing something before others do

She took advantage of her lunch break to have afternoon tea, carrying a large bag of snacks, looking quite relaxed and at ease. However, she soon sensed a subtle atmosphere and, in the next moment, identified the two key individuals. She first ignored Xie Minglang and instead asked Chen Cheng: "What happened? What did Minglang do wrong this time?"

I do not know either. Regardless, there is now one more piece of news because of him. This time, it can be considered a stroke of luck.

I have watched all of them over the past few years. Feifei is a devoted fan of Yan Cai; whenever his films are released, she must buy two copies, one to watch and one to keep. However, I cannot avoid the new films; I have watched them all.

I am quite particular, which may be a nightmare for others

Noticing that someone was watching him, Ge Huai turned his gaze, his eyes bright and piercing, making Xie Minglang feel a chill in his heart, and he forced a smile.

Upon returning to the magazine office, the two individuals began to work separately. Meng Yu made a concerted effort to praise Xie Minglang in front of the editor-in-chief, who finally felt relieved after a morning of anxiety. The editor-in-chief made a phone call to encourage Xie Minglang and advised him to handle the images properly

Feifei ... ... I cannot keep these photos ... ... " Xie Minglang felt somewhat troubled

Of course, we should have arrived earlier. I sincerely apologize, Mr. Ge, for keeping you waiting.

However ... ...

You acted in many diverse films when you were young

Yan Cai smiled without answering. Meng Yu understood and also smiled: "I was just too curious. I couldn't help but ask a few more questions upon hearing that you are going to perform in a stage play. It's a professional habit, a professional habit."

The atmosphere is already charged with impending change. Meng Yu quickly glanced at Xie Minglang and hurriedly vouched for him: "Although Minglang is young, his skills are undeniable. For an important interview like this, we certainly wouldn't bring along a novice."

I simply do not want to take random photos; it is just a personal habit

The light has created magic. Xie Minglang gazed at this photo for a long time, moving the mouse to cut and paste it, leaving it on his computer.

That is good

Xie Minglang focused his gaze and was astonished to find that it was indeed him

This unexpectedly obtained photograph also surprised Xie Minglang. Unable to resist her repeated urging, he laughed and said, "If you get all A's in your exams this semester, I will make a disc for you"

Meng Yu slowly reined in her smile, staring at the flow of traffic, and said: "He was indeed a good actor when he was young, and at that time, there were good scripts available for him. There were a few years when his performances were truly excellent. As for now, he lacks nothing; being able to work so diligently and take on several films each year is a blessing for the audience, isn't it? Thinking about it this way, there really isn't much to criticize. Have you seen any of Yan Cai's films?"

They have collaborated multiple times and are quite familiar with each other, yet they remain polite. Yan Cai noticed Xie Minglang following behind, whom he did not recognize, but he did not inquire further. He smiled, nodded, and greeted, saying: "Miss Meng has brought a newcomer."

Meng Yu was somewhat surprised and shook her head: "Then I am not well-informed. Since the cast has already been selected, it must have been planned for a long time. What is the play? Is it a revival of an old production, or is it a completely new script?"

Thank you, Editor Chen. Xie Minglang is indeed quick to respond

After taking a few photos, he felt it necessary to refocus. While he was looking down, he suddenly heard a piercing scream erupt from the crowd, as if an explosion had occurred. The reporters around him also shouted in alarm, causing him to tremble. Upon listening closely, he realized that the name being called was Yan Cai

Ge Huai observed both parties entering the situation, glanced at Xie Minglang who was taking out his camera, said nothing, and temporarily stepped aside to make a phone call. Seizing this moment, Meng Yu quietly instructed Xie Minglang: "Just take pictures, don't speak, do not ask Yan Cai to stop and pose for you, I will tell you the rest later."

Everyone turned back, and the tense atmosphere seemed to have eased slightly

Ah, this is Xie Minglang. Old Yang encountered a bit of a situation today

Meng Yu also smiled, somewhat bitterly: "If only he could let you go like this, that would be great. You have no idea, Ge Huai is the kind of person who is most detestable for bullying the weak. But I will definitely protect you, just be a little sweeter with your words and pay a bit more attention when the time comes."

You mentioned that you enjoy work that comes easily to you, does this mean that when you take on roles in art films, you are performing out of habit? Are all the characters essentially the same to you?

Meng Yu's voice interjected, "Come in"

Meng Yu also smiled: "I am providing a transition for both of us"

Ge Huai turned his head to ask Meng Yu: "Where is Old Yang?"

The interview officially concluded at this point. Meng Yu's radiant smile remained until she got into the car, at which point it faded. She supported her head and shouted, "Every interview with him feels like going to war. Minglang, hurry up and drive, I'm starving to death"

He was truly hungry, having consumed two large bowls of soup before contentedly sliding back onto the sofa. Pan Feifei was watching a film, naturally one featuring Yan Cai. The characters in the film were still quite young, their expressions exuding a fierce and commanding presence.

Yan Cai deepened her smile: "I like the breakfast at this place, that's why I made an appointment to come here"

That is fine

Chen Cheng looked up at him in surprise: "You ... ... "

The editor-in-chief was taken aback, feeling that this was simply adding fuel to the fire: "You want him to accompany you to interview Yan Cai? Are you joking! You bring along a rookie who hasn't even completed his internship; even if Yan Cai doesn't say anything, do you not know what role Yan Cai's manager plays?"

I actually prefer your films from that time

It is so late, I do not wish to eat anymore

These new films are not worth mentioning. He performed very earnestly, and his acting was excellent; however, there was no passion. He did not invest even the slightest bit beyond what he was supposed to.

Unbeknownst to them, they had been talking for over an hour, and the agreed two hours were about to pass. Meng Yu knew that based on the content of today's conversation, she could write a good article, which made her feel somewhat relieved. She thought it would be best to pause here for the time being, allowing Yan Cai to relax a bit as well

That is natural. You can rest assured about this Sister Meng

However, at this moment, it seems that saying anything is meaningless. After a brief consideration, the chief editor walked over with a stern expression and patted Xie Minglang on the shoulder: "Then let's leave it at that. I have high hopes for you as well, so relax and do your best"

Today has indeed gone very smoothly. What is particularly smooth is that Ge Huai has been on the phone with others, he is someone who even counts the number of times he presses the shutter. However, you performed exceptionally well, completely unlike a novice. I once mentored a young photojournalist who was so nervous that he kept pressing the shutter, and in the end, the interview could not proceed at all, as it was all just the sound of him clicking away.

Ge Huai furrowed his brow: "So he came to take photos today?"

What is going on? Why is everyone crowded here? Is there some gossip worth sharing?

Who knows that after submitting the manuscript for a few days, there has been no news? "Silver Screen" is a biweekly publication and cannot afford to wait like this. Meng Yu, the editor in charge, had no choice but to take the initiative to contact Ge Huai. Two or three minutes later, she hung up the phone and said with a tone of relief: "It's fine now. However, he wants all the photos from this shoot with Xie Minglang and has repeatedly emphasized that they must not be leaked under any circumstances"

Pan Feifei wanted to argue further, but Xie Minglang patted her on the shoulder: "It's getting late, you should go to bed early. I have to work overtime tonight. Let's talk about it tomorrow."

Such a person, it is simply unreasonable for them not to be popular. As Xie Minglang pressed the shutter, he also distracted himself to listen to the content of the interview, which was indeed, as expected, flawless. However, Yan Cai has the ability to express such impeccable words with such sincerity

A few days later, the interview manuscript was completed, and Xie Minglang also submitted the processed images. The graphic designer looked at the pictures and shook his head repeatedly, saying, "Minglang, you are indeed a newcomer and do not understand the rules"

After leaving the magazine office, Xie Minglang went to pick up the car. Once he got in, he repeatedly expressed his gratitude, saying: "Sister Meng, thank you so much for giving me this opportunity"

Then it's settled. I'll come to see you this weekend, and we can go to the cinema together. Oh dear, I have a class now, so I'll call you back later.

He originally wanted to say, "I have long admired your name, and I am finally meeting you," but fortunately, he swallowed the words before they left his mouth, avoiding revealing his novice status. Ge Huai glanced at him a few times: "You should already know the rules for taking photos of Yan Cai."

Xie Minglang raised his hands in a gesture of innocence, saying, "This is on you, not on me"

Is it not an illness?

However, Yan Cai did not provide the reporters with the opportunity to take frontal solo photos, nor did he pay much attention to the reporters who wished to conduct interviews. After taking these few photos, he went directly into the theater

Hmm," Ge Huai lowered his head to check the time, "It's about time, let's go in.

In terms of work, the essence is indeed the same. The roles are all different; otherwise, one artistic film would suffice in this world. If people feel that the characters I portray have similarities, it is not due to my habitual performance, but rather because I have performed poorly, rendering different films with a singular flavor

Indeed. However, it seems that everyone has forgotten now

No, no, it's just that there was a bit of an emergency at home

She drank the tea that had already cooled down and said, "Thank you, Yancai. Every interview with you is a thrilling yet nerve-wracking challenge. Unfortunately, I cannot act, so I do not know what it would feel like to perform a scene with you"

He turned the computer screen around, and Meng Yu did not know in advance that it was such a large close-up of a face. She was stunned for a moment before slowly saying: "The photo is quite good."

Pan Feifei immediately lost her energy: "Then just say you won't give it to me."

He encountered a car accident on his way here, and he is still in the hospital

Then, returning to the main topic, the interview officially begins

Xie Minglang secretly groaned, as he had no idea what other rules existed. However, he could not look at Meng Yu under Ge Huai's watchful eyes. Taking a deep breath, he smiled and said, "The chief editor and Sister Meng have both specifically instructed me, so I am well aware."

It was at this moment that he finally looked directly at Xie Minglang for the first time, while extending his hand: "Hello, I am Ge Huai"

Later, at the premiere's opening, the media that were allowed to enter followed inside, while those who could not enter gradually packed up their equipment and dispersed. "The Silver Screen" had limited entry slots, but such good fortune did not fall upon Xie Minglang; he was quite pleased and hurried home to accompany his sister.

Before I could utter the three words "I need to work overtime," the call had already been disconnected

Yan Cai smiled and said: "You have always been well-informed. Rehearsals will begin in another month."

I want him to remove the wrinkles, but he refuses. This is your draft, what do you say

I did not mean that

Thinking of Pan Feifei still waiting for him at home, Xie Minglang was somewhat distracted. Moreover, since he had come here tonight in the capacity of a subordinate, he couldn't help but feel a desire to slack off

As they exchanged pleasantries, Xie Minglang quietly observed Ge Huai. The legendary "evil ghost agent" was just over thirty, dressed neatly and appropriately, and his tone and expression did not reveal any signs of being fierce, critical, or difficult to deal with

No. The screenwriter is my friend. He sent me the script, and after reading it, I found it very interesting, so I acted in it. I have actually been typecast; regardless of the roles I take on, the persona that the audience recognizes is no longer the same as my true self.

How did you come to consider taking on such a low-budget film? Is it because you do not want to be typecast by audiences and critics?

Yan Cai was originally looking down to drink water. Hearing her question, she raised her eyes but did not respond. Meng Yu also realized that her question was abrupt, but having been in this circle for many years, she considered this level of awkwardness to be trivial. She quickly continued the conversation: "I just wanted to ask so that I can book the tickets in advance."

After driving for a while, Xie Minglang thoughtfully said, "It wasn't as terrifying as it was made out to be in advance, actually it's not that bad."

If the manuscript is returned, it is because I did not write well. We are only entitled to two photos, so let it be.

The last sentence is indeed not very persuasive. Xie Minglang quickly glanced at Meng Yu and, seeing her calm and composed demeanor, hurriedly said: "Chief Editor, rest assured. I will definitely not let you and Sister Meng down. When the time comes, I will seek more advice from Sister Meng and will certainly fill in for Brother Yang effectively"

Hmm..." Xie Minglang thought for a moment and slowly said, "Older than what I saw in the movies"

Ge Huai smiled and said, "Reporter Meng is being too polite. If it weren't for the trust in 'Yinping', we wouldn't have collaborated repeatedly. It's just that seeing a new face, I asked a question out of curiosity."

With only two hours left until the agreed time, the editor-in-chief was so anxious that he was about to jump up. Late summer and early autumn is precisely the nomination period for the Golden Statue Awards, and it coincides with the end of summer vacation, the tail end of the golden period, which is the time for news coverage. All entertainment magazines are mobilizing their resources for articles, leaving no spare hands available.

The photographer beside Xie Minglang was frantically pressing the shutter while intermittently asking another person, "I haven't heard that Yan Cai is coming."

The graphic designer Chen Cheng sighed as he looked at him, his finger moving to the computer screen, pointing at the face in the photo where the wrinkles had not been faded out, and said: "You need to make some changes, otherwise, he definitely won't pass through his agent. It is said that Yan Cai is very particular about this."

There is no way, I can only make the call next time

Well then... Pan Feifei decided to stop while she was ahead and obediently went to sleep

Slowly turning on the camera, the LCD screen is very small, making it difficult to see the details. However, for Pan Feifei, this is already sufficient. As she gazes at the screen, she becomes excited, gripping Xie Minglang's hand tightly and urging him to take a shot. Xie Minglang initially wanted to suggest that they view it on the computer instead. However, he then thought that if that were the case, their weekend would be ruined, so he swallowed his words and instead said, "Buy our magazine in a week; there might be a large poster included."

Xie Minglang took a shower, transferred the photos back to his computer, and pulled up the image that had startled Pan Feifei earlier. He could not recall when he had taken this photograph. At the moment he pressed the shutter, the flash of the reporter's camera across from him lit up, creating a silhouette effect on Yan Cai's profile with the light coming from the other side; the bright light enveloped his upper body, making his hair appear brushed with a light golden hue, while the half of his face facing him remained in shadow, with a faint smile at the corners of his mouth; his eyes were exceptionally bright, sparkling with brilliance, and he exuded an overwhelming presence, akin to an emperor under the spotlight.

This sentence attracted everyone in the editorial department who had nothing to do at the time to gather around and take a look. Upon seeing the photo, they all indeed laughed. However, Xie Minglang is well-behaved and has a good reputation in the company, so everyone's laughter was well-intentioned. Xie Minglang looked around and felt satisfied in his heart, but naturally, he had to be modest verbally: "Where is the breach of etiquette?"