Chapter 8 Dreamer

He is gradually gaining fame in this circle, and Yan Cai is well aware of it, yet remains silent, subtly pushing him forward at critical moments. As the two have spent more time together, certain matters have developed an unspoken understanding, and their jokes have become increasingly unpredictable.

"Do you think I have an unusual enthusiasm for unfamiliar fields?" Yan Cai laughed again at this moment, "Back then, I thought it was a performance, but later I realized it was not the case. I have always been an average actor, just fortunate enough to encounter suitable films, which has led me to consistently choose roles within familiar circles over the years.

"How is it that you chose Spider-Woman? Is it truly because you want to break free from the mold that others have placed you in?"

This is not the same thing. I have never minded playing similar roles. In this industry, there are indeed few who can adeptly portray a variety of characters, but there are also few who can interpret characters with very similar personalities and experiences while bringing out subtle distinctions. After recognizing one's own talents, why should one make things difficult for oneself, seeking fish by climbing a tree? Yan Cai paused for a moment, seemingly hesitating, but ultimately said, "Characters are eternal; every actor is like a passerby, and all one can do is strive to leave something behind." After recognizing one's own talents, why should one make things difficult for oneself, seeking fish by climbing a tree? Yan Cai paused for a moment, seemingly hesitating, but ultimately said, "Characters are eternal; every actor is like a passerby, and all one can do is strive to leave something behind."

Indeed, just a few days later, Xie Minglang received a call from Xu Yawei's assistant, who expressed a desire for him to take a set of professional photos of Xu Yawei. Upon hearing that the photos would be used in other commercial magazines, Xie Minglang found himself unable to make a decision at that moment. He discreetly consulted with other seniors, who advised him that it would be perfectly fine to proceed and simply use a pseudonym for the magazine. This seemed like a win-win solution, yet Xie Minglang was reluctant and ultimately declined politely.

What is the rush? If everything is said at once, it would be rather dull. " Yan Cai still smiled, " I always think about how to extend my allure towards you. "

Yan Cai, seeing the situation, let go of her hand and left the bedroom. When she returned, she had a camera in her hand, which was still a professional model. Xie Minglang's eyes lit up at the sight of the camera, forgetting the fever and headache he had previously used as an excuse when Yan Cai asked him to play chess, and he smiled broadly: "Shall we go out together?"

That is certainly the case. Perhaps it is because I have performed in stage plays too infrequently, making the difference particularly noticeable

That issue of the magazine sold exceptionally well, and many fans of Xu Yawei even went to post advertisements of the magazine cover outside bookstores. Afterward, Xie Minglang could not have imagined that this photo would have such an effect. Occasionally, when he mentioned this incident while with Yan Cai, he felt quite emotional. Upon hearing this, Yan Cai rummaged through a pile of books and magazines on the coffee table and pulled out that issue of "Focus": "Is this the one? Yawei liked it very much too"

Xie Minglang smiled and said, "Yancai, how much effort do you really put into making a film?"

In this context, Yan Cai changed several poses, adjusting her expression with each pose, yet she never smiled. This expression of Yan Cai was unfamiliar to Xie Minglang, but he found it remarkably powerful, completely dominating the emptiness and monotony of the entire scene. He took a few more shots before he was satisfied and put down the camera: "I think that will do."

This proposal did not receive a very positive response; Yan Cai merely said, "How do you know I have this disc?"

I have always enjoyed acting, and for this reason, I suspended my university studies halfway through to work as a stagehand in a theater, and later became an extra on film sets. Eventually, when I finally landed roles with lines and prominent screen time, I was told that true acting should transcend the realm of mere hobby, and that one must at least be able to look down upon 'hobby.' This is perhaps similar to photography; you need to capture a landscape, yet you must immerse yourself in it. Reflecting on my earlier performances, I realize I did poorly, investing too much emotion and often achieving little despite my efforts, while also indulging in self-absorption. Now, I find it hard to bear the thought of revisiting my past self. However, after all these years, acting remains the only thing I can still do reasonably well.

Xie Minglang, seeing so many cigarette butts, felt increasingly embarrassed and smiled as he said, "I dare not trouble you to wait any longer; let us return."

I do not like either of the two professions. So let's just be a couple, even if it's an affair. With this light-hearted remark, the atmosphere immediately returned to normal.

This photo was seen by the editor during processing, and regardless of Xie Minglang's strong desire to keep it private, it was taken and used directly as the cover of the current issue of the magazine without much notification to Xie Minglang

Xie Minglang thought to himself that the effect of today might not be replicated another day. He did not say much and chose to return the same way. Along the way, he listened to Yan Cai recount how he had purchased this house years ago because he was captivated by the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains. Although the sun was obscured by thick clouds as it set in the west, the snow kept the surroundings bright. However, mist gradually drifted down from the mountains on the southern bank of the lake, and before long, the area was shrouded in clouds and fog. At this moment, Xie Minglang turned back to look at the lake's surface, where the mist was even denser, making the entire lake appear as if it were steaming with clouds and water. Xie Minglang's footsteps came to a halt again, and Yan Cai, who was walking ahead, turned back to look at him and said: "Aren't you the one who mentioned a horror movie scenario? It's best right now. Just imagine, if it gets a little darker, you won't see anyone else in this forest, and somehow you get lost. There’s only a distant light, and you walk towards it, suddenly hearing footsteps..."

After seeing this photo, she is likely to have softened her heart and probably has already asked your editor-in-chief for your phone number. In the coming days, you can expect her assistant to invite you for tea.

After exchanging some playful banter, Yan Cai mentioned that it often snows after fog. Indeed, as soon as they stepped inside, the snow began to fall. Although the snowfall was not heavy, Xie Minglang couldn't help but worry about how he would manage to get back to work if the roads were still impassable the next day. Fortunately, he was in luck; when he got up the next day, not only had the snow stopped, but the road maintenance personnel had also cleared the roads, allowing them to return smoothly.

Xie Minglang detected the teasing tone in this statement, fell silent for a moment, and then said: "I would like to see your previous films"

At that time, Xie Minglang had already walked quite a distance along the lakeshore. Yan Cai initially followed slowly behind, but later chose to hide in a sheltered spot to smoke, waiting for Xie Minglang to come back and find him. Xie Minglang, not seeing anyone for a moment, felt a bit guilty and ran back for a while, only to spot Yan Cai's figure under a pine tree. He quickened his pace and ran up to Yan Cai, smiling as he apologized: "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I lost track of time while taking pictures."

"Don't you have it?" Xie Minglang showed a look of surprise, "I thought your next response to this proposal would be 'Let's see which version'"

When they went out, both of them were wrapped in scarves and wearing hats, especially Xie Minglang, who was bundled up very tightly. He originally disliked this as it hindered his movement and was unwilling to wear a long coat, but with the camera still in Yan Cai's hands, he had no choice but to compromise.

Yan Cai glanced at him and pointed at the protagonist on the screen, saying, "Do you know? Initially, during the casting, the two were supposed to play each other's roles. However, after the formal rehearsal, it was found that switching roles was more suitable, and the result indeed turned out to be better."

Yan Cai was drinking tea and smiled slightly upon seeing Xie Minglang: "They brewed a pot of tea, would you like to have a cup?"

Yan Cai leaned against the door, devoid of a smile. At the moment he faced the camera, his sharp gaze resembled a knife, capable of splitting the entire lens. His reflection was cast upon the wall, magnified countless times by the light, resembling a monochromatic decorative painting that divided the monotonous wall.

Xie Minglang almost without thinking replied: "Of course it is myself"

"So what?" Yan Cai retorted.

This statement seems both true and false. Xie Minglang, suffering from a headache and fever, blurted out: "I fear it has always been you leaving others."

Xie Minglang pondered for a moment and said: "In fact, photography is also about seeking a decisive moment. To capture this moment, one needs repeated practice, experimentation, waiting, and occasionally, a stroke of luck. Of course, film integrates frames of film into a narrative that lasts over two hours, while what we need to do is simply find that moment and faithfully record it. But essentially, aren't the two the same? The stage may be something different; your obsession with it might stem from your unfamiliarity with it."

Xie Minglang did not expect him to be so serious, and he also put away his smile, unconsciously sitting up straight, listening to him continue speaking

Yan Cai really went upstairs and brought down a pile of discs, mostly videotapes. Seeing this, Xie Minglang said, "Why are there still videotapes? Is there anyone watching this in this day and age?"

This magazine has an intricate and unclear connection with the entertainment industry, but Xie Minglang genuinely enjoys this job. He does not have to take exclusive photos of celebrities and has some time to engage in other activities

Yan Cai said softly: "I just want to find an opportunity to meet you. Today's filming is difficult, and it is likely to last until midnight. I will leave the key for you."

Yan Cai halted her steps, holding her breath and concentrating in one direction for a moment, then asked, "Did you really not hear the footsteps?"

Most actors are narcissistic, and I believe you are no exception. Moreover, given your serious and demanding attitude towards work, how could you not watch your own films

What to do

Xie Minglang suddenly thought of something and heavily patted Yan Cai; however, at that moment, a loud noise erupted from a nearby tree, which shook violently, causing large chunks of snow to fall. Both of them were taken aback, staring in astonishment, when suddenly a pheasant flew out.

I do not have it here" Yan Cai replied without hesitation

It is often taken out to look at. Otherwise, how would one know if they have made progress?" Xie Minglang answered as a matter of course

She was rehearsing her lines, and without a word, you rushed in. Given her naturally strong temperament, there would certainly be no kind words at that moment

On the way back, Xie Minglang secretly thought that he must find an opportunity to understand Yan Cai's past well, but a series of events that followed did not give him much chance or time: Meng Yu and the editor-in-chief slammed the table at the first editorial meeting after the New Year over the issue of the supplement. The next day, without saying a word, she formally resigned and jumped to another film monthly, "Premiere." Before leaving, Meng Yu asked Xie Minglang if he was leaving, and he only hesitated slightly before soon submitting his own resignation.

Yan Cai had not spoken about this issue for a long time. The light from the screen illuminated his face, and to Xie Minglang, it increasingly conveyed a sense of steadfastness and stubbornness. Just when he thought this question could no longer be asked, Yan Cai pressed the pause button, and the image abruptly froze on a bizarre scene, the cold light no longer flickering. Yan Cai's face was devoid of a smile as he turned his head and said very seriously: "I like this profession." Just when he thought this question could no longer be asked, Yan Cai pressed the pause button, and the image abruptly froze on a bizarre scene, the cold light no longer flickering. Yan Cai's face was devoid of a smile as he turned his head and said very seriously: "I like this profession."

Thus, people say that if you and Zheng Xiao had switched roles back then, it might have resulted in a completely different scenario. Moreover, do not change the subject. As he spoke these words, the image of Yan Cai in her youth inevitably resurfaced before him

You see, you should say a bit more, so that I can know a bit more about you as well

Whoever knows, the effect captured is quite remarkable. This photograph is entirely different from the astute, capable, and sensual image that Zhang and Xu Yawei usually present to the public: she is wearing a deep red dress, adorned with a black small hat, her bare shoulders and neck are white and smooth, while the emerald green earrings leave rippling traces on her snow-white neck; she wears only one elbow-length glove, the other held in her hand, and on the small table in front of her are scattered a water cup, a script, cigarettes, and a handbag, with an unknown business card occupying one corner. At that moment, she slightly lowers her head, her gaze seemingly drifting somewhere, and the half-profile facing the camera possesses a sculptural elegance under the light. The emerald green earrings leave rippling traces on her snow-white neck; she wears only one elbow-length glove, the other held in her hand, and on the small table in front of her are scattered a water cup, a script, cigarettes, and a handbag, with an unknown business card occupying one corner. At that moment, she slightly lowers her head, her gaze seemingly drifting somewhere, and the half-profile facing the camera possesses a sculptural elegance under the light. In front of the lens, she reveals a certain quality of sadness and innocence, mixed with an undeniable sweet aura, yet devoid of any suggestive connotation

Xie Minglang pretended to be clueless, but on the day of the interview, he arrived at the studio on time. He was quite familiar with one of the supporting characters in the film, and after arriving, he stood aside and chatted for a while. Under the guidance of the relevant staff, he filmed a few unrelated scenes, and finally he was asked: "Is Reporter Xie here this time to film Yan Cai?"

Xie Minglang observed him feeling incredibly comfortable and at ease in this spacious dressing room, nodding slightly: "That's fine."

During the New Year holiday, the homeowners nearby should also be staying indoors, reluctant to move, and there are no other people on the road to the lakeside. Taking advantage of this, the two of them walked hand in hand along the still snow-covered walkway, one in front of the other. As the cold wind blew against Xie Minglang, he became more spirited, excitedly recounting some past adventures taken for the sake of photography to Yan Cai. Seeing him in such good spirits, Yan Cai did not interrupt, allowing him to continue speaking all the way.

After walking for nearly half an hour, they finally arrived at the lakeside. Xie Minglang was sweating and wanted to take off his scarf, but was stopped by Yan Cai. In the end, he only removed his gloves and hat. As they got closer, the color of the lake water appeared different from what they had seen through the window. The water near the shore was a bluish-green, while the distant surface of the lake displayed a pure sapphire blue under the sunlight

Xie Minglang glanced at him and was about to say, "The range that can be reached by walking does not count," when Yan Cai had already walked over, put his arm around his shoulder, and looked towards the lake: "Is this a professional habit? Do you have to take a picture whenever you see a beautiful view?"

His rise to a modest level of fame occurred under quite accidental circumstances. Due to the status of "Premiere" in the industry, the photographers from "Focus" also enjoy certain privileges in the film and television realm, such as opportunities to visit film sets. One day, at the request of the editor, Xie Minglang went to take behind-the-scenes photos. The female lead of the film was Xu Yawei, who had changed her clothes but had not yet done her makeup, leaning against a chair in front of the makeup mirror, waiting for the makeup artist. On his way to the studio, Xie Minglang got lost and happened to wander to the door of the makeup room, where he saw Xu Yawei lost in thought. Without saying a word, he took a photo. One day, at the request of the editor, Xie Minglang went to take behind-the-scenes photos. The female lead of the film was Xu Yawei, who had changed her clothes but had not yet done her makeup, leaning against a chair in front of the makeup mirror, waiting for the makeup artist. On his way to the studio, Xie Minglang got lost and happened to wander to the door of the makeup room, where he saw Xu Yawei lost in thought. Without saying a word, he took a photo.

Unlike "Silver Screen," "Premiere" is a magazine with a more specialized readership, and apart from the interview articles in each issue, the other contributors to the magazine are almost all professional film critics. Under such a magazine, Xie Minglang naturally had little opportunity to make a mark, but fortunately, he soon transitioned smoothly to another photography magazine, "Focus," which is under the same publishing company as "Premiere." Within a short span of two months, this frequent job change kept him extremely busy; he only returned to his hometown for two or three days during the New Year and had to rush back to continue managing the transition for his new job. Xie Minglang naturally had little opportunity to make a mark under such a magazine, but fortunately, he soon transitioned smoothly to another photography magazine, "Focus," which is under the same publishing company as "Premiere." Within a short span of two months, this frequent job change kept him extremely busy; he only returned to his hometown for two or three days during the New Year and had to rush back to continue managing the transition for his new job.

You must be familiar with various versions and have seen them more than I have, so please choose one.

Xie Minglang was somewhat surprised, still feeling incredulous in his heart. He smiled and walked over to Yan Cai, grabbing his hand that was changing the disc, and asked: "Oh, please don't tell me you never watch your own films."

Yan Cai noticed a sudden glimmer of laughter in his eyes and replied, "Which version do you want to see?"

As the topic increasingly took a sinister turn, Xie Minglang shook his head, almost with a bitter smile: "Having played the role of a wizard, are you now going to play the role of a prophet?"

"Is this an exam?" Xie Minglang tilted his head to look at him, only to see Yan Cai's gaze still fixed on the screen. "It seems that if the film director is willing, he can easily use the camera to guide the audience's attention to certain details he wants us to notice. However, sitting in the theater, all the subtleties must be discovered by oneself. That being said, the feeling of acting in a play and acting in a film must be completely different, right?"

The door to the dressing room was closed. Xie Minglang first knocked on the door before pushing it open and entering.

"Am I not performing out of habit? There is no need to put in effort." Yan Cai turned on the television and sound system, then turned back to Xie Minglang with a smile.

Upon hearing this, Yan Cai smiled and said: "Originally, I wasn't going to ask, but after hearing your name, I inquired a bit more. Then I shared everything I just learned with you."

Then just look for the films you have watched before

I still do not know; at present, I feel that there is none. Your machine is too good; I am not accustomed to it.

Have you taken a satisfactory photo

After these events, Xu Yawei had indeed remembered Xie Minglang. Later, when Xie Minglang attended an event, Xu Yawei specifically came over to greet him, which left Xie Minglang somewhat at a loss. She found him to be a very interesting person through her lens, and he was quite well-connected. Xie Minglang did not take to heart the fact that he had previously declined her, and instead agreed to be her portrait model for a special session. The photos taken during that session turned out very well, and after they were published, Xu Yawei specifically requested a copy for her records.

He handed over the teacup, but Xie Minglang did not take it. Instead, he pulled him closer and planted a kiss on the front of his sweater. During the kiss, Yan Cai spilled all the tea from the cup in his hand. Ignoring the heat of the water, he quickly placed the cup on the table and turned to embrace Xie Minglang. When they separated, Xie Minglang laughed and leaned against Yan Cai's shoulder, saying, "If this continues, all the work will be ruined"

Xie Minglang thought to himself: "I originally did not want to use the flash, but the lighting was indeed a bit poor. It was my rudeness to begin with, so I accept the reprimand."

Xie Minglang realized that he could not extract any information from Yan Cai, yet he still felt unwilling to accept this. He lowered his head, his smile fading, and slowly said: "Well then, from the perspective of a fellow practitioner, since you do not like seeing yourself on the screen, why did you choose this path in the first place? It cannot be solely out of necessity for a living"

This is a recording of a stage play by predecessors, which has not been publicly released; having a videotape is already quite good

But look at your own photo

Upon seeing Yan Cai's smile, he understood and couldn't help but smile as well: "You repeatedly claim to be mediocre, yet every word is filled with arrogance. Isn't this a retreat to advance? Indeed, you are a narcissistic perfectionist."

I have never seen the surface of the lake after heavy snow, and I did not expect it to be this color" said Xie Minglang, staring intently at the lake water, speaking softly

They exchanged a glance, and the expressions on each other's faces made them unable to hold back their laughter, which grew louder, causing the snow on the nearby trees to begin to slide down even without the wind.

He shrugged his shoulders, his tone unchanged: "I haven't done this in many years."

Yan Cai observed that his nose had turned red from the cold, finding it quite amusing, and extinguished the last bit of his cigarette in his hand: "You returned just in time. I have just finished my last cigarette"

Having adapted to the new work environment and gradually becoming familiar with my colleagues, everything has returned to normal, and several months have passed without me even realizing it

Yan Caiyi indeed thought so. At this moment, Xie Minglang said: "However, not in the dressing room, let's change to another place"

Xie Minglang, unfamiliar with the surroundings, wandered aimlessly until he finally arrived at a temporary exit with Yan Cai. This area was simply decorated, with monotonous gray walls, and the ceiling was lined with pipes and wires of varying thickness. The door and surrounding walls were plastered with various signs, such as "No Entry Without Permission," "No Smoking," "No Food or Drink Allowed," "Turn Off Mobile Phones and Other Communication Devices," "Watch Your Step," "For Emergency Use Only," and even "No Pets Allowed," resembling a construction site still in progress.

When Yan Cai touched Xie Minglang's forehead, she realized that he had started to run a fever again. No matter how much Xie Minglang insisted that he was fine, the two of them did not finish watching the movie that night and went to bed early instead. The next day, the sky suddenly cleared up, and the lake, seen from the bedroom window, appeared excessively blue against the backdrop of trees covered in thick white snow, creating a beauty that felt utterly unreal

It was said in this manner, yet he did not specifically request Yan Cai to actually extinguish the cigarette. Once they entered work mode, both individuals put away their smiles. There was no need for Xie Minglang to elaborate; Yan Cai had already found the angle on his own. At such moments, he always possessed an astonishing sense of accuracy

At this moment, Xie Minglang felt invigorated and no longer wanted to watch the movie. He asked, "I am very curious, please tell me."

I do not watch it. If you find the stage play uninteresting, then watch a movie instead. He took out a disc and inserted it into the player

They leaned against each other watching the film, and for the first hour, no one spoke. Xie Minglang felt the heat rising a bit and was getting drowsy, but he held back from mentioning it, only saying: "The performance is truly excellent; the feeling of the movie is still different from that of being on site"

Indeed, however, the audience often acts as blind followers. Ultimately, Xie Minglang, for whom do you pick up the camera

Do you look at the photos you have taken

Seizing this opportunity, Xie Minglang gradually had more chances to interact with the actors. He was dedicated and focused while working, and after finishing, he did not engage in idle chatter. The things he heard and saw were not splashed across gossip magazines. Over time, he made some friends, and later on, some actors would occasionally give him tickets to performances and invite him to visit backstage. As a result, during the moments before the show started and after it ended, he would wander around backstage and take some photos. With more such opportunities, Xie Minglang found joy in it, and occasionally he would go to watch performances with Yan Cai, holding the tickets.

Otherwise, I will retreat to the background. Yan Cai curled her lips into a smile, her eyes shimmering with brilliance even in the darkness.

Yan Cai immediately restored his previous relaxed expression, as if he had removed a mask and casually tossed it aside. He did not look at the photo but instead kissed Xie Minglang once again, only parting when the footsteps of outsiders drew near. Almost simultaneously, Xie Minglang's coat pocket felt heavy, and Yan Cai's voice whispered in his ear: "See you tonight"

Xie Minglang took a few test shots with Yan Cai's camera, but ultimately found it not to his liking, feeling that something was slightly off. This sparked his stubbornness again, and he settled down to slowly adjust the focus and aperture, searching for different angles along the shore to capture the most beautiful moment of the lake's colors under the sunlight. He became so absorbed that he completely lost track of time, only realizing later, as the sun set and the light diminished, that he had left Yan Cai alone for an unknown duration.

Yan Cai had already seen this film a long time ago, and upon hearing Xie Minglang speak, she became distracted and asked, "What is different?"

Understanding the implication behind his words, Xie Minglang chuckled to himself, then raised his head and feigned seriousness as he said: "Let me take this photo for you first before we talk. Speaking of which, ever since I joined 'Focus', I haven't taken a single photo of you."

Yan Cai smiled and said, "A little progress leads to more demands," without taking any further action; the disc that had been inserted earlier began to play, and the excellent sound quality startled both of them with a sudden burst of music. They exchanged a glance and laughed, temporarily setting aside the matter they had been discussing. Before returning to his seat, Xie Minglang casually turned off the lights, while Yan Cai lowered the volume of the sound system by a few notches

After the photos were released, they sold remarkably well. In the words of editor Xie Minglang, "Although the background is filled with 'strictly prohibited' and 'not allowed', the expression of seriousness and restraint at that moment seems more like a tacit approval and invitation. This is far more effective than any other form of temptation"

Standing in the snow for a long time, Yan Cai's voice sounded somewhat different from usual, particularly alluring in this quiet environment. Listening to him, Xie Minglang couldn't help but smile: "Why have you stopped?"

Curiosity is the privilege of the young

You are curious about everything

Filmmaking is, to some extent, a play of time. A single expression, a single action, even someone without talent can perform it a hundred times, and it can still be seen on camera. Then, countless such shots accumulate to form a movie. There is a distinction between good actors and poor actors on camera, yet it is difficult to differentiate between good actors and geniuses. However, when standing on stage, everything becomes apparent. That said, there were several years when I had many opportunities to perform in stage plays, but at that time, I was greedy for the dazzling colors of the silver screen, which is why I am still in this situation today. Alright, I have answered what you did not ask; are you satisfied?

Xie Minglang smiled and said: "I haven't heard of this. Of course, if the crew doesn't mind, I would like to take a stroll around his dressing room."

Is that so?" Xie Minglang recalled Xu Yawei's reaction after the flash went off that day, smiling helplessly, "At that time, she was furious.

If you were really that old, how could I have kept you at that time? Yan Cai smiled faintly and continued to engage.

He placed the camera on the table and sat down himself. A few weeks ago, Yan Cai went out to shoot outdoor scenes, and the two had been apart for nearly a month. They met again in this photography studio. He watched Yan Cai in costume pouring tea and took a picture with the camera. After hearing the shutter sound, Yan Cai raised her head and said: "After a brief separation, can't you do something other than just pressing the shutter?"

At first glance, this statement seems rather bland, but as Xie Minglang observed the hint of nostalgia inadvertently revealed in Yan Cai's expression, his heart suddenly tightened, as if some shadow was swirling around Yan Cai, refusing to dissipate. He was unwilling to see Yan Cai in such a state, so he casually shifted the topic: "But the audience likes novelty. They are your benefactors."

One day, Xie Minglang was invited to visit the film crew starring Yan Cai. When he first received this opportunity, several editors were skeptical: the director was notoriously strict, and Yan Cai did not like having reporters take photos during the filming. As a result, they asked Xie Minglang what was going on, wondering if someone he knew in the crew had provided him with some favor.

Xie Minglang is unusually persistent this time, yet still smiling: "Why do you always put on such an air of being old-fashioned at times like this? As if you are really twenty years older than me"

Xie Minglang murmured, "How do you know everything"

Upon hearing Xie Minglang speak, the stage manager specifically sent someone to inquire about Yan Cai's intentions. Shortly thereafter, they returned with the message that there was no problem. Xie Minglang suppressed a laugh and had the staff lead him to the back of the studio. After clarifying the direction, he proceeded on his own.

As an elder, I shall maintain my 'caution in speech.' You cannot simply watch this film in peace; such matters cannot be clarified in an instant.

Xie Minglang, upon hearing him say this, also stopped and perked up his ears to listen carefully. However, at that moment, apart from the sound of the gentle breeze causing the snow to fall from the pine trees and the breathing of the two individuals, there was no other sound to be heard.

This lake has always been here; it would be better to come back another day to take photos.

Oh, the fever has subsided, and the headache is gone as well

Under such circumstances, Xie Minglang could not help but feel restless, relying on the fact that once the heat subsided, he would go out. Yan Cai did not stop him. When Xie Minglang reached the door, he suddenly remembered that he had not brought his camera. As a result, he spent the entire morning feeling anxious, sitting by the window and occasionally wandering to the balcony. Yan Cai, on the other hand, calmly played her puzzle with the music on, occasionally glancing at Xie Minglang, treating him almost as a source of entertainment. As the afternoon approached, Yan Cai finally could not help but laugh and said, "Who was it that said they wouldn't go anywhere because of the heavy snow blocking the roads?"

Of course, it is a good thing

Yan Cai leaned against the door, habitually lighting a cigarette. Xie Minglang pointed at the sign and said: "Didn’t you see the no smoking sign?"

Her expression remained unchanged as she whispered, "No, if that day ever comes, it will be you leaving me"