Chapter 1, Farewell to Summer

The voice is warm and deep, very pleasant to hear

At this moment, the top star beside me is resting one hand on his chin and slowly says, "The scene from last night needs to be changed; I have made some revisions to the script."

In my moment of irresponsible daydreaming, he had already seated himself on the third wooden chair beside the coffee table, placed the folder in his hand next to the tray, and folded his hands.

I suddenly recalled a film review from a certain movie magazine—if a person possesses the appearance of Gu Chijun, there is no other path for them but to become a star. He approached us holding a folder, nodding to my mother as a greeting, and his gaze swept over to me, pausing.

She cast a suspicious glance at me, rose from her seat, yet it was evident that she had still acquiesced

Yes, it is already full. My birthday is in February

It seems she has changed her mind, and I was overjoyed, repeatedly expressing my gratitude: "Mom, I will pay you back the money."

My name is Ji Xiaorui, and I am Director Liang's assistant. I have been working with Director Liang for nearly six years. She placed me at a small tea table by the floor-to-ceiling window. She spoke very quickly, and from the way she poured coffee for me, it was evident that she was extremely efficient and skilled in her work. She looked up and smiled at me, her ponytail gently sweeping across the back of her neck. "Although we have spoken on the phone twice, this is my first time meeting you in person. You look even more like Director Liang than in the photos, both of you are very beautiful."

In my limited imagination, a script should merely be a stack of bound printed pages, yet the script before me is far more beautiful than I had envisioned. The cover is artistically crafted, featuring four grand artistic characters that read "Three Rules of Engagement"—I recall that this is the title of the film, beneath which are the director's name, Liang Wanting, and a date—marking the start of production. For a fleeting moment, I was tempted to open the script to sneak a peek at the spoilers, but I ultimately restrained myself. The cover is artistically crafted, featuring four grand artistic characters that read "Three Rules of Engagement"—I recall that this is the title of the film, beneath which are the director's name, Liang Wanting, and a date—marking the start of production. For a fleeting moment, I was tempted to open the script to sneak a peek at the spoilers, but I ultimately restrained myself

This answer is truly embarrassing for me. In her heart, I am merely a "superfluous" existence, not even worth mentioning. Although I might be somewhat similar in her heart, I still have needs from her, so it is always prudent to be humble and deferential.

After eleven years, Gu Chijun has already become a highly sought-after superstar. He is extremely diligent, releasing at least one or two films each year; he almost never acts in poor-quality films, carefully selecting the projects he takes on, all of which have a strong reputation. His acting skills have also been recognized, having won numerous Best Actor awards, making him one of the highest-paid male film stars in the country today. Currently, he is the lead actor in my mother's film "Three Rules".

As she just stood up, the slightly ajar door was pushed open from the inside

She looked at me with a commanding gaze, saying, "If you don't want this money, then don't call me Mom anymore"

The autumn semester is just around the corner

Oh, it is alright, I speak sincerely

a bit nervous

The family's savings are very limited, so I had to use the education fund left to me by my father. Friends of my father during his lifetime also generously offered their assistance, and I persevered, waiting tenaciously for a suitable organ donor. Just when a suitable organ finally became available, he unfortunately could not survive the transplant surgery

Her bedroom is quite large, appearing to be about the same size as the living room outside, and it features equally magnificent floor-to-ceiling curtains, though they are fully drawn, giving it a much more private feel; the hotel rooms are generally similar, but there is always a hierarchy, and my mother's suite clearly belongs to a higher class. I do not have time to examine it in detail, after all, if not now, then when, "Mom, I would like to borrow some money."

Indeed, people do change. I am much more capable now than I was three years ago, and I would certainly not experience the overwhelming excitement that would make me feel as if I might die from nervousness at just a glance from him. However, unfortunately, he is now less than fifty centimeters away from me, and the first button of his shirt collar is unbuttoned. I can almost see his lean upper body and the smooth contours of his collarbone.

Yes, the imposing, beautiful, and noble woman before me is my mother

She picked up the hotel intercom phone and dialed out. Ten seconds later, she hung up the phone and stared at me, saying: "Director Liang wants you to go up."

Ah, you are Xu Zhen? Please come in

Wait, is he actually looking at me? I realized this belatedly.

"Zheng Yao," she paused, "when is your father's funeral"

This money is truly a hot potato; whether to take it or not is a dilemma

However, in the film industry, the perception that overly handsome male actors are often deemed incompetent is a common judgment. Gu Chijun has broken this stereotype. In my mother's film "Half a Lifetime," Gu Chijun showcased his increasingly refined acting skills. He played a highly rebellious son in the film, performing alongside several veteran actors, and he did not fall short against anyone.

At this moment, it would be a lie to say that I am not nervous. I have attempted several times to lift my foot, only to put it down again. My behavior is truly foolish, causing the hotel lobby staff to frequently glance at me sideways and approach with a warm smile to ask if I need any assistance

My father's attending physician, Dr. Fu Yin, comforted me by saying: it is normal for him to not endure due to his advanced age

Director Liang? The receptionist raised her head to scrutinize me. Although she was very restrained, I could still perceive the strong curiosity and inquiry in her kind gaze. Without needing to think, I knew she was pondering the relationship between me and this renowned director. "Then what is your name?"

My father only understands paleontology, but I still take pride in him, so whether or not I have a mother does not seem to be a significant matter to me

"... ... it is me," I hesitated for a moment and softly called out, "Mom."

I initially thought it was the waiter returning, so I casually glanced towards the door. I was immediately taken aback, my hand, which was reaching for a slice of bread, froze in mid-air and trembled slightly

Mother took a sip of milk and asked him, "Have you had breakfast? Let's eat together."

Unexpected changes occur in this manner; when they come rushing in, the mortal body has no resistance whatsoever

Sitting at the same table, I occasionally meet his gaze and can always feel the kindness in the smile reflected in his eyes

This is not to say that no one can help me; it is just that my father's friends have already assisted me too much, and I truly feel embarrassed to seek their help again. I completely trust that my classmates or teachers would be willing to assist—after all, I have always had quite a good rapport with others. However, my awkward situation is bound to attract a multitude of sympathetic gazes. I have seen enough of their sympathy when my father was ill, and unless absolutely necessary, I really do not want to resort to this last option.

Xiao Rui, take her back

"Alright, let me take a look." The mother reached out to grab the folder, "Is it revised to the present?"

"Your surname is Xu, Xu Zhen," he repeated softly, "a nice name."

Standing at the door of room 2208, I finally calmed down for the first time today

I grew up with my father, who is a paleontologist of great refinement; I have never seen him lose his temper in my entire life. His knowledge is profound, perfectly reflected in his several major works. He has discovered hundreds of previously undocumented new species; he can determine from a fossil whether a suspected net-like structure belonged to a creature that lived in the Cretaceous or Tertiary period, whether it was a magnolia or a birch tree; he can also describe the habits and diet of such creatures. He is passionately devoted to his work, spending long periods conducting paleontological field studies, and every word in his writings is soaked in diligent effort. He has discovered hundreds of previously undocumented new species; he can determine from a fossil whether a suspected net-like structure belonged to a creature that lived in the Cretaceous or Tertiary period, whether it was a magnolia or a birch tree; he can also describe the habits and diet of such creatures. He is passionately devoted to his work, spending long periods conducting paleontological field studies, and every word in his writings is soaked in diligent effort

Uh?

Thank you. I thanked him with a heated head, not even knowing what I was truly grateful for

I immediately said, "I have eaten at school."

After the same words have been repeated three or five times, I will no longer ask further. It is not that I am boasting; I have always possessed exceptional comprehension skills

All my indecision has been completely exhausted on the way to the hotel, and now only the courage to persist until I reach my destination remains. My calves no longer tremble, my rapid heartbeat has become steady, and my sweaty palms have returned to dryness. I steadied my hands and knocked on the heavy wooden door.

"Stop." The next second, she coldly called out to me, sounding decidedly displeased

I cannot help but recall a film my mother once directed, titled "Endless", which had an exquisitely printed poster. In the artwork, Gu Chijun and a beautiful young woman are seated across from each other in a roadside café, with Gu Chijun gently caressing the heroine's cheek, their foreheads touching as they tenderly express their love. The scene is so beautiful that it brings tears to one's eyes. It was this poster that impulsively drove me to rush into the cinema and buy a ticket, only to discover that the image on the poster was merely a facade. Five minutes into the film, the scene from the poster appears, where Gu Weijun kneels to propose. At the very moment of his proposal, a bullet suddenly arrives from an unknown source, taking the young woman's life in an instant. Following this, Gu Chijun embarks on a journey of revenge, with a plot full of twists and turns that showcases his acting skills to the fullest. The scene in which he kneels before his girlfriend's grave, weeping uncontrollably, is still frequently mentioned today. This film earned him his first Best Actor award, which is also quite significant.

After my father fell ill, I took a leave of absence from school to care for him, and I did not attend school for over six months. I only went back for the final exams, and my grades were quite poor. Additionally, due to my excessive absences, it was expected that I would lose my scholarship.

I am already an adult, and although I really want to shout this out loud, I still held back. She lent me money, so she naturally has the right to know what I am doing. Moreover, the courses in my senior year are not too demanding, so I nodded.

I simply did not expect her to show such a reaction as if someone had touched a sore spot

He gently held my hand, his hands dry and refreshing, with long fingers, warm and strong. I seriously contemplated not washing my hands for several days

With just a glance, it seems as though my world has been illuminated

She laughed happily, revealing a row of snow-white teeth, "Just call me Xiao Rui."

So I looked at him once more. This time I confirmed that he was indeed looking at me with those beautiful phoenix eyes

I cannot control myself from looking at him

Mother gracefully spread jam on the bread, sipping milk in small mouthfuls; I was also preparing to do the same when I suddenly heard the door ring again. I pondered to myself that this door had been opened and closed too many times today, and if the door had feelings, it would surely feel impatient

Thus, I gathered my courage and took another look at him. This glance lasted longer and proved more effective than I had imagined. His features entered my vision—just as I had seen in countless photographs and films: a full forehead, clear brows, tranquil eyes, and a gaze that seemed endless.

I indeed believe that this matter is of no concern, and I will not vent my anger on my mother. After all, my father and I have lived well together for so many years, and his interest in fossils and specimens has overshadowed everything else. He has never expressed any regret or disappointment over not having a wife. Therefore, I think my father will not care whether she comes to observe his funeral

Ji Xiaorui pushed me, interrupting the impassioned speech I was about to deliver: "Xiao Zhen, take this. Director Liang gave it to you, so just accept it. She is your mother, after all, not a stranger." There was a strong tone of advice in her voice.

The living room is very quiet, and the luxurious furniture subtly showcases the hotel's taste and quality. I obediently sit up straight and lower my head; on the coffee table, besides a set of coffee cups, there is also a book

I feel a bit embarrassed, "Miss Ji, you flatter me."

In the past few days, filming has continued until five in the morning. Director Liang only went to sleep after six. Ji Xiaorui said, "She has just woken up not long ago and is still in the process of washing up"

"There is no need to call anymore, I can just have this portion, thank you, Xu Zhen." Gu Chijun pulled my plate over, his politeness and demeanor impeccable, alleviating my inexplicable embarrassment. I thought, as a top superstar, Gu Weijun truly lives up to the rumors, being exceptionally adept in his interactions with others.

He asked me my name again, and I told him without reservation

His speaking to me has made my veins feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, his doubts about my identity are enough to completely negate my excitement. I felt a slight embarrassment and was about to clarify by saying "not an actor" when my mother spoke up before I could.

I stepped out of the bedroom clutching that scalding check, feeling as if my steps were unsteady. It was clearly just a thin piece of paper, yet it weighed me down to the point where I could hardly stand upright. I went to the sofa to grab my backpack, preparing to make my exit

Because I am still too young

After careful consideration and analysis, I realized that among all those who could assist me, my mother had the strongest financial capability. My tuition fees were merely a drop in the bucket for her; moreover, she was the most likely to help me, as she clearly agreed when I called her "Mom" over the phone

At first, it felt like I was stealing a glance, sneaking a peek and quietly withdrawing my gaze. In my peripheral vision, Gu Chijun stood tall and slender, dressed casually in a perfectly pressed shirt and deep blue trousers, his hair neatly styled. As for his features, I was so nervous that my vision blurred, but I vaguely sensed that he seemed to radiate a kind of glow.

This is a name full of vitality, just like its owner. For the vast majority of people, it can only be described as renowned and resounding, although the intensity of the thunder it brings to each individual varies.

I am mentally calculating with a "pitter-patter" sound, my mother puts down the signing pen, and Ji Xiaorui tidies up the checkbook beside me. "Starting now, come to see me once a week."

She spoke so harshly that it left me astonished. I silently mulled over the word "mother" in my mind, quietly putting away the check.

My mother glanced at me without surprise and said, "What is it? Speak up."

22nd floor, room 2208

I have arranged to meet someone, and I would like to know if she is available now

Whenever someone hears the words "borrowing money," they inevitably display an expression that suggests, "Indeed, this is not a good thing." I have long since grown accustomed to this. However, since the person in question is her, there may still be a possibility of persuasion

I pressed my lips together and said, "Ms. Liang Wanting."

In fact, I do not wish to borrow money from her, nor do I want to complain, but I have indeed found myself in a difficult situation

Have you had breakfast yet

After my father's funeral, I finally organized and settled the family's assets, and it was no surprise that I found myself facing difficulties in paying for tuition and living expenses.

Last year at this time, my father was diagnosed with liver cancer, which had already progressed to the middle and late stages. Although my father has made significant contributions to paleontology, this has not brought him substantial income—like most natural science scholars, he is completely inept at managing finances, spending any money he has or using it to purchase new research tools.

The door creaked open, and a beam of light spilled onto the thick carpet in the corridor. I looked up into the room, where a young woman, around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, whom I had never met before, was smiling warmly at me.

For example, the girl in front of me, the name "Liang Wanting" evokes a sense of reverence in her, and she pronounces it with perfect clarity and precision

It was the first time in my life that I uttered this commonplace term, and in that moment, my emotions were so complex that they were difficult to articulate

Oh, it's nothing

"Let's eat together," although I indicated that I had already eaten, she ignored my words and called out to Ji Xiaorui: "Call room service for two breakfasts."

My mouth can fit an egg, yet I find it inappropriate, so I quickly close it: "Please don't do this, I am quite embarrassed."

This film deceived countless young people's tears back in the day, and as a result, Gu Chijun became immensely popular, embarking on a brilliant path to stardom

Xu Zhen? She called me by my full name, her voice devoid of any emotion, efficient yet calm

His appearance was very handsome, and at that time he was particularly young. This allowed him to star in several touching and fashionable romantic films in the early years, where he would engage in love affairs with the female lead, filled with sorrow and tenderness. These films may not have been collaborations with my mother, but he accumulated a great deal of fame.

Such a large sum of money could practically knock me out

My mother glanced at me, stirring her coffee with a spoon, and said, "Why don't you talk about yourself?"

The tone is very calm, and it is evident that this is the voice of an old friend who has known each other for several years. This is not surprising. From the various entertainment news I have seen, I can summarize the general experiences of the two as follows: Gu Chijun met my mother when he was around twenty years old. At that time, my mother was already a well-known director, and she took a liking to this young man, giving him a small supporting role in her film. After collaborating on this film, he rose from a supporting role to the lead, taking on a romantic film where the male and female protagonists were pen pals, separated by thousands of miles, and communicated daily. One day, the girl stopped writing, and the boy, following the address on the envelope, went to find her, only to discover that she had passed away due to a terminal illness.

I lowered my gaze and thought for a moment, then bent down to rewrite a promissory note and handed it over with both hands. I recognized her only because she is my mother, not because I wanted her money. Her act of forcing me to bear a huge debt truly leaves me feeling helpless and miserable. According to the current bank interest rates, after a year, I will have to repay her several thousand to tens of thousands. It is truly terrifying. Her act of forcing me to bear a huge debt truly leaves me feeling helpless and miserable. According to the current bank interest rates, after a year, I will have to repay her several thousand to tens of thousands. It is truly terrifying

The young girl at the front desk had a charming smile and asked, "May I ask which room the guest is from?"

Ji Xiaorui, noticing my gaze, understanding my feelings, said, "I will go check on Director Liang."

When the two of them finished their meal, I saw my mother reaching for the flyer brought by Gu Chijun, and I knew they were about to get into another discussion about the script. I immediately interjected.

Without her saying it, I can already feel that my mother is a person who speaks decisively. To put it positively, she is resolute and steadfast; to put it negatively, she is arbitrary. In such a vast film industry, how could the most famous female director stand her ground without some intimidating skills? She absolutely does not like anyone going against her wishes, whether that person is me or someone else

One must always exercise caution when on someone else's territory

I noticed a slight wrinkle at the corner of her eye, and there was a hint of dark circles beneath her eyes. Although she had applied light makeup, it could not conceal the deep fatigue she bore. Over a month ago, I saw the opening ceremony of her new film on television; since then, various news articles about this film have frequently appeared in the entertainment sections of newspapers and magazines, showcasing the extensive pre-release promotion. This film is the largest investment in the past two years, and the leading actors are all currently the hottest stars, with every move they make being fodder for gossip columns. It is impossible for her to direct such a major film without enduring hardships.

Mother pondered for a moment, nodded and said, "That is fine," then returned to the dining table and began to read the few pages of the revised script sent by Gu Chijun; however, Gu Chijun did not focus entirely on the revised script, as he looked over at me from across the spacious living room, his lips slightly parted and closed, silently communicating with me

She sat down at the desk, and I also occupied a small corner of it, pulling out paper and pen from my backpack to write an IOU. I study economics, so writing an IOU is second nature to me, and we both finished at the same time. The amount I wrote down was not much, but upon seeing the check she handed over, I realized that the amount she had written on the check was three hundred thousand.

The expression on my mother's face fully indicated my ridiculousness; she shook her head and glanced at me, saying, "Don't take matters into your own hands. Xiaorui, make the call."

Just ... ... occasionally glancing at Chijun.

The insurance covered the vast majority of the medical expenses, but my father has been bedridden with a serious illness for nearly a year, and there are always some costs that are not covered by insurance

Xu Zhen, I said, my name

This film holds great significance for me; it was after watching this film that I became a fan of Gu Chijun

"You must be a university student as well," she said, lowering her eyelids, and then asked, "Are you twenty-one this year"

It felt as if someone were stabbing my internal organs with a steel rod, causing my eyes and nose to simultaneously sting, and my throat to tighten momentarily. "Three weeks ago," I said, only to realize that my voice still trembled slightly.

The promissory note handed to her was thrown into the shredder without her even glancing at it

In the end, he would dryly say to me, "Your mother is very busy right now; she will come to see you when she has some free time"

He only acts in movies and has no interest in releasing records. It is somewhat a waste of such a good voice

In that moment, Gu Chijun's expression could only be described as dazzling, alternating between astonishment and disbelief; however, true to his status as an acclaimed actor, he regained his composure in the next second, making me think that his surprise was something I had imagined. It was the first time in over ten years of acquaintance with my mother that Gu Chijun realized my existence in this world; thus, I can confidently assert that my mother is a person who values privacy immensely and is also very self-centered.

It is not pleasant to be forced to borrow money, but in any case, after some time, one must find an opportunity to repay this substantial amount.

It is not a secret, yet my mother said, "It is unnecessary to mention it"

Xu Zhen, goodbye

She looked me over again and said, "I will call you Xiao Zhen from now on"

"Xiao Rui, come in," her mother instructed her, "bring the checkbook and a pen"

She nodded. Since she gave birth to me, she should still remember my birthday

"Not much, just slept for two hours. There's no rush for now, you can look at the script after you have your meal." Gu Chijun pressed down on the folder with one hand, his gaze shifting from my mother to my face, offering me a warm smile that only a mature man possesses, one that could make the heart of the opposite sex race tenfold. "This one, is she a new actress?"

She stared at me, her voice almost stern, "Did Zheng Yao not leave you any money? You can't even come up with your tuition fees?"

Raising my eyes, the door leading to the bedroom was half ajar. I couldn't help but glance inside twice, fearing that if I wasn't careful, someone might unexpectedly come out from within, catching me off guard

Regardless, thank you. I will take my leave now

Borrow money? She frowned, as if she could not understand my words, as if I were speaking in ancient Egyptian or Xixia.

"The confidentiality is truly well maintained," Gu Chijun said, taking a bite of bread, and remarked to my mother, "Director Liang, I had no idea you had a daughter, and she has grown up so much."

Mother paused for a moment, as if recalling something, lowered her head to take a sip of coffee, and then said: "At that time, I was abroad shooting outdoor scenes and couldn't return."

She was inquiring while checking on the computer, "What is the guest's name?"

To sit idly by and watch one's resources dwindle

She cast a scrutinizing glance at me, as if she could see right through me; I felt a shiver run down my spine and instinctively jumped up, as that melodious yet authoritative voice reached my ears

Gu Chijun

Oh, Sister Xiaorui, I thought about it and still added the word "Sister"

My mother glanced up at him and casually asked, "Chijun, what is it?"

No, she explained my identity without any hesitation, "I am her daughter."

When I was very young, I foolishly asked my father, "Why do other children have mothers while I do not?" Each time I brought up this question, my father would put down the paper or fossil he was holding, and a mysterious expression would appear on his serious face, as if he were perplexed by a monumental issue. The eyes behind his black-framed glasses looked both confused and guilty. It was only after I grew up that I understood the unspoken meaning behind my father's inscrutable expression—he truly wanted to tell me something, but every time the words were on the tip of his tongue, he hesitated.

In the presence of Gu Chijun, I find it difficult to broach this topic, and lowering my voice, I said: "Can we talk privately? Is it alright to go to the bedroom?"

This tone of being "interviewed" gives me a slight discomfort, and I furrowed my brows slightly, yet I still laid it all out: "Jinghai University, junior year, oh, I mean, after the autumn semester, I will be a senior. I am studying in the Economics Department of the Business School, my grades are quite good, and I was previously the class representative as well as the publicity minister of the college."

Ji Xiaorui greeted the newcomer warmly and then turned to look at my mother: "Director Liang, Mr. Gu Chijun is looking for you"

"It is a movie script," Ji Xiaorui explained, "I was watching it before you came."

Ji Xiaorui responded, and I hurriedly said, "No need, I know the way."

I hurriedly reached out to shake his hand: "Ah, Mr. Gu, you are well too"

Truly a star among stars, shining brightly wherever they go

"Where would money not be needed?" She cast a cold glance at me, "Besides tuition, your clothes, pants, and shoes all need to be replaced; your taste is too poor. Your hair should also be taken care of; looking like this is truly unattractive."

Mother, I have something I would like to ask for your help with

I returned his smile, took a deep breath, waved my hand to signal that I was fine, and then walked across the brightly lit marble floor that could illuminate a person, traversing the hotel lobby, and approached the front desk, speaking in a tone of resolute determination as if I would not give up until I crossed the Yellow River.

Regarding my mother, there is actually very little I can say, because throughout the early years of my life and even now, there has never been a presence of a mother in my life

As they were speaking, someone knocked on the door

I was momentarily distracted when I finally heard this sentence spoken by my mother. Prior to this, my mother had been waiting to drink her coffee. After Ji Xiaorui added half a cup of milk and one-third of a sugar cube to the coffee cup, she finally picked up the coffee cup.

Having said this, there is nothing more to discuss, so I will consider this trip a wasted effort. I turned around, opened the bedroom door, and intended to leave

Ji Xiaorui sat on the sofa close to the door. Upon hearing the ringing, she put down her handheld computer and went to open the door. As I expected, it was room service; the attendant neatly arranged breakfast on the table. The breakfast was simple: golden-brown toast, delightful strawberry jam, a pot of milk, and two eggs.

To say I am not disappointed would be a lie; I am making every effort to build up my mental resilience. It is understandable, after all, that a daughter who suddenly appears to ask for money would not be welcomed by anyone. With so many scammers around, she might even suspect that my identity is questionable. Her hesitation is entirely reasonable.

This allowed me to see her appearance more clearly: just as described in countless gossip articles, she looked more like a top actress than a director; in person, she appeared younger than in photos and videos, and she should be in her early forties this year, but she looked no older than thirty-five; she had a pair of bright, expressive eyes, and wherever her gaze fell, it was like the sunlight at that moment, revealing everything without exception

Your father is no longer here, I should take responsibility for your upbringing

Ji Xiaorui agreed with a sound and went to make a phone call, leaving my mother and me sitting alone by the coffee table. I was racking my brain for a topic, and the awkwardness of meeting my mother, whom I had never met before, felt as overwhelming as drinking a glass of water overnight. The cups on the coffee table looked at me mockingly, and I shook my thigh slightly, causing the table to tremble a bit, and the coffee rippled slowly in circles.

This is the first time I have mentioned this name in front of others. I had thought that saying these three characters would be quite difficult for me; to my surprise, those three characters suddenly gained strength, bouncing out of my mouth like popping candy. At the same time as I was astonished, my mood instantly relaxed significantly.

Our gazes collided in the air. Gu Chijun, with his handsome appearance and extremely charming eyes, is something that everyone on Earth knows. The last time I had such close contact with him was three or four years ago, at a product launch event he was endorsing. At that time, he was on stage looking around, his gaze slightly lingering on me, and he gave me a faint smile, signaling me, the lucky one drawn, to come up on stage to participate in a small activity. In fact, that gaze and smile were merely fleeting moments, yet my poor heart could hardly bear the weight, almost bursting. I kept thinking in my mind: what does it mean to be electrified? This is it!

His posture while eating is very elegant, with his long fingers tearing the bread and his eyelids slightly lowered; just like his consistent image in the movies

I stared blankly at the door, and the first thing I saw was a woman in a floor-length black dress stepping out from inside. Her long arms and neck revealed their skin delicately, creating a striking contrast with her fair complexion and the flowing black fabric. She wore almost no adornments, except for a silver necklace hanging around her neck—its length reaching down to her chest, with an 'L'-shaped pendant at the bottom reflecting bright starlight

The living Gu Chijun appeared before me

I truly stood still, utterly perplexed as I turned around. However, she did not look at me and called out to Ji Xiaorui in the living room

I truly did not expect this," he shook his head, revealing a dazzling smile, and then extended his hand above the coffee table, greeting me earnestly, "Hello.

I do not borrow a lot of money; I only need enough to cover one year's tuition and accommodation fees. I am afraid she might overthink it, so I quickly explained, "I am already in my fourth year, just one year away from graduation. At this point, I do not plan to apply to the school for a tuition reduction... Moreover, I have classmates who are in greater need of the school's scholarships."

I shook my head silently. Not to mention the tuition fees, I currently do not even have two thousand yuan.

However, these topics are indeed far removed from my usual world. I neither want to interject nor can I find a way to do so, so I simply sit in silence, waiting for them to finish their meal

As usual, this is said to be a question, although I did not perceive any sense of inquiry within it

She did not respond, her expression shifting between dark and light as she looked at me

This person is a trained professional actor, and even a casual glance carries a terrifying lethality, so handsome that one dares not look directly at him. I need to clench my hands tightly under the table, exerting great effort to control my emotions and prevent my infatuation from showing.

Before I turned fifteen, my father would take me with him every time he went out. We traveled to remote mountainous areas, vast deserts, and desolate islands. We searched for exposed fossils on the bare ground; I have seen so many novel and unique landscapes and encountered people of all kinds and colors, which has greatly broadened my horizons

I felt a sudden jolt in my heart and further explained, "I can earn my own living expenses; I have already found a part-time job. I plan to pursue a master's degree, and my advisor, Professor Qian, said he would help me. I am sure I can apply for a scholarship. Mom, I will pay you back this amount within two years; I can write an IOU right away." I took a deep breath and looked at her hopefully, "What do you think?" Mom, I will pay you back this amount within two years; I can write an IOU right away." I took a deep breath and looked at her hopefully, "What do you think?"

In the spirit of conserving food, I pushed my plate away and said, "I haven't touched this breakfast; I had already eaten before I came here. Mr. Gu, you—" Suddenly, I fell silent mid-sentence. Who is Gu Chijun? How could he eat the breakfast I didn't want.

I was almost blinded by that brilliance, unable to discern whether the light was emanating from the pendant or from her calm and composed demeanor. In truth, I had no time to attend to such trivial details—because she was walking towards me.

At that moment, my mother, whom I had never met, called me. She had just seen my father's obituary in the newspaper and expressed her heartfelt condolences to me; I thought, after all, a day as husband and wife brings a hundred days of affection, and I also came from her womb, so it was only natural for her to offer her condolences. Two days later, just a few days ago, she contacted me again, saying that she had returned to Jinghai City and arranged a date for us to meet.

He received his first nomination for Best Actor at an international film festival for that movie

No," Gu Chijun shook his head, a hint of bewildered fatigue showing in his expression, "I came over as soon as I woke up.

In fact, I was thinking about today's meeting last night and hardly slept well. I woke up early this morning and spent some time in the empty dormitory before rushing to the school cafeteria, where I hastily had a freshly prepared breakfast. Then I took the subway and the bus, passing over a cross-sea bridge. In the midst of cursing this city for being so vast and the endless torment it brings, I spent a full two hours and one minute making my way to this hotel located in the southern part of the city by the sea. The bumps of the vehicles had clearly drained my energy, and I suddenly felt a bit hungry.

The two individuals were slowly having breakfast, occasionally chatting about movies. Listening to their conversation, I realized how hard it was for them to sit here and enjoy a meal together— for the past two weeks, they had been going to bed at four or five in the morning, and today, they were able to rest because the assistant director was filming a few less important scenes.

I was taken aback. Although I was not dressed in any famous brand, I considered myself to be neat and tidy. I did not expect that in her eyes, I was so out of place. Given that she generously gave me this sum of money, I did not intend to argue with her about my taste in clothing for the time being, but sincerely suggested: "Even so, this is too much, besides—"

Just like countless times I have seen him in movies, although separated by mountains and rivers, he is always able to reach people's hearts. I can understand his meaning

The place where I find myself is a suite in this luxurious hotel, characterized by its subdued colors and elegant style, which reflects the overall ambiance of the hotel. The living room is spacious, with floor-to-ceiling curtains that are partially drawn, creating a beautiful and grand view. One can gaze at the azure sky, overlook the city streets, and see the distant blue sea, with the endless horizon extending far beyond. At nine o'clock in the morning, the sunlight streams through the gossamer-thin glass, generously illuminating the entire room.

Ah, good

Clearly, I was already standing at the entrance of the hotel, yet I hesitated once again

I was taken aback, "Ah? I really do not need so much money. I only borrowed for tuition and accommodation fees."