Chapter Seven, with its twists and turns

I casually put it together myself I replied awkwardly

Yiyun leaned against the cabinet, standing in that dense shadow, quietly listening to some music. He could not see his wife's face, but he could see the brown and orange patches on her skirt, appearing as dark and light spots in the shadow.

Eh?

We are currently rehearsing a short play

I met her when I was young, at that time I lived with my grandmother, she said

The door was pushed open, and Ji Xiaorui and Zhang Shiyu returned

"Xiao Zhen, please wait a moment," there was silence on the other end of the phone. She covered the microphone and lowered her voice slightly, "I stepped outside to take the call. Just now, Director Liang and Mr. Gu were both here, and I didn't dare to go into details with you. In short, they had a brief argument."

He lowered his head and asked me, his eyes shining terrifyingly. If it weren't for the fact that the person he was speaking to was me, I would certainly think this was a blatant seduction. He is aware of his own charm and knows that with just a slight exertion, he can achieve a momentum that is unstoppable.

Mother

What play are you performing?

On the set of "Three Rules of Engagement," I have witnessed numerous scenes. Although I have always remained silent and observant, I believe that as an audience member, I am certainly qualified.

Everyone is dancing in the living room The sound of the piano gradually fades away, an old record spins, and the voice of a young man sings: The raindrops wet my hair, the dew touches my skin

"He is a young man I used to know," she replied, "He always sings that song of ours, right under my window"

Ji Xiaorui looked me up and down, and with a "puff" of laughter, her shoulders shook slightly. "Xiao Zhen, your uniform..." Perhaps she laughed too hard and choked on the water she had just drunk, covering her mouth and coughing repeatedly, nearly burying herself in Zhang Shiyu's arm. Zhang Shiyu said little, gently patting her on the back.

The voice suddenly stopped. Turning around, I saw a female student from that table of college students had collapsed; her head was buried in her legs, and she was holding onto the table leg, looking as if she was about to vomit

He slightly turned his back, the anger he had just felt replaced by a sense of helplessness. Numerous tangled, shameful, and sorrowful thoughts crossed his mind. His voice became much softer, "How did he pass away?"

He seemed to have pulled a clean wet wipe from the table, gently wiping my eyelids, slowly removing the heavy eyeliner I had applied. His other hand also moved, with his palm resting against the back of my neck, securing my head from both the front and the back. My usual calm demeanor vanished without a trace, and I wanted to proudly lift my chin and say, "I refuse to be toyed with by you," but then I suddenly thought—oh my god, this person is Gu Chijun! Gu Chijun!

Who did your makeup

Shen Qinyan was indeed excited, as he stared at Gu Chijun almost without blinking, his excitement evident. I lowered my head, reflecting on my own appearance when I first met Gu Chijun; I must have had a similarly eager expression.

"Wait a moment," Gu Chijun asked me with his head lowered, "Do you have any free time this weekend?"

I couldn't help but feel a deep respect, "Indeed, indeed."

After a moment, he finally felt satisfied, his fingertip moved away from my brow and shifted to my temple

This straightforward question truly caught me off guard, so I could only respond: "Finding a house is a significant matter; please think it over before speaking."

Um

I knocked on the door while holding a jar of caviar and saw three people in the room turn to look at me. They had dismissed everyone else, leaving only the three of them.

"It's not too bad." However, he was far from as excited as I was, his voice tinged with a hint of bitterness, "There are still too many problems."

Later that evening, Gu Chijun called me twice

"You are an adult now, and I won't interfere with whom you choose to date," she said, "but I do not approve of anyone from the film industry."

Everything is difficult at the beginning, but it will gradually get better. You are truly remarkable

She lifted her head from the crook of his arm, her eyes brimming with tears, "I remember a person from long ago, who always sang this song."

His voice came to an abrupt halt, and I did not press further, instead taking a keen interest in another topic, "The theater troupe? Which theater troupe?"

I believe that when a proposition and its negation are equivalent, they can be regarded as equal arguments in logic, making it impossible to clearly identify any errors in the reasoning that asserts the validity of both propositions. These two propositions are referred to as a paradox—clearly, my mother's statement is a paradox.

I close my eyes. My heart beats "thump thump," striking against my chest and back like a drum, as if it is about to leap out; my breathing becomes rapid, gasping for air.

I received the script, flipped through it, and couldn't help but be greatly astonished

They transitioned from discussing their past friendship to the current society, from the youth of this new era to new thoughts. Ultimately, they talked about music, and Ruan Xiang walked over to the piano and began to play a lively dance tune

This statement is made with varying depths, and I remain silent

Thus, whenever he gazed at her, there was always a hint of sorrow in his eyes

I breathed a sigh of relief, "That's good."

I lowered my eyelids, and strange thoughts were swirling in my mind. What on earth is happening?

I hung up the phone, and with a sense of helplessness, I lowered my head and rested my forehead on the table

Kiss me? I was struck by this otherworldly idea

He seemed momentarily at a loss for words, paused slightly, and finally said: "A small theater troupe that I am organizing with a few friends"

Mr. Gu is a very nice person; we have only gone out a few times

"Yes," she replied softly, "I am tired"

Hello to you all I immediately greet

The members of our theater troupe each have their own jobs during the week, and can only find time to rehearse on the weekends

No, they are not acquaintances, they are simply twinkling stars

This time I understood, my face flushed, feeling both honored and surprised. We have known each other for so long, and I already know that he speaks without deceit, at least not in front of me.

Why can't I recognize it

Among this group of people, the most enthusiastic is a tall man named Da Guo, who is also one of the directors and leading actors of this play. He has spent several years in a formal theater troupe, possessing considerable experience. Shen Qinyan introduced that the props, costumes, and sound equipment were all borrowed by him, making him the soul of the theater troupe. He is generous and friendly, looking me up and down as if trying to determine whether I am human or an alien, and he shook my hand with such enthusiasm that he nearly crushed the bones in my hand

Gu Chijun was wearing a brown trench coat and sporting a pair of old-fashioned black-rimmed glasses that were as thick as the bottom of a beer bottle; Zhang Shiyu and Ji Xiaorui were positioned one on the left, one on the right, one in front, and one behind. It is indeed an interesting combination that these three individuals have come together.

I just felt that something seemed off about you," Gu Chijun said, "Your eyebrows are a bit light, but your eyeliner is too heavy, it looks a bit gaudy

It now seems that this wonderful idea may unfortunately come to naught

Do not move, tilt your head slightly upward

Date

Zhang Shiyu supported his forehead and exchanged a glance with Gu Chijun

Of course, I do care to some extent. For instance, if I take my mother's money, it is only natural that I would be at a disadvantage. What concerns me more is another matter—if this situation is not handled well, I will immediately become the pawn in the conflict between my mother and Gu Chijun.

In general, we are not allowed to converse, hence the volume is kept very low

No wonder this conflict has made the headlines.

She asked me to come out and meet her, and I hurriedly explained that I had to meet with the professor, which had been scheduled a week in advance, and I really could not postpone it. She did not insist any further

No, I am still nervous, speaking at a rapid pace. I have made plans with a friend to go see his stage play.

Gu Chijun's expression darkened, and his sharp gaze swept towards the door. Ji Xiaorui took a step back and said in an almost apologetic tone: "... otherwise, shall we come back later"

Gu Chijun raised his hand. I looked at him in confusion, and in the next moment, I knew the answer. I saw his finger glide across my cheek, finally seeming to rest at the corner of my eye and brow. His finger was probably not very warm, dry and cool, certainly cooler than the temperature of my face, so my perception was not quite accurate.

Shen Qinyan glanced at me but did not respond

That will do. I don't think you are the kind of girl who completely follows her mother's arrangements, Gu Chijun said with great joy, resting his head on his hand, You don't need to worry about Director Liang's side, I will handle it well

The character "Gu" on the screen flickered, and I did not answer, hanging up instead. I am unwilling for him to have a conflict with my mother. The relationship between an actor and a director is akin to that of vines and trees. Although Gu Chijun has already become a major star, his connections with my mother are indeed too numerous. Their conflict is not good for either party.

Ah, may I go and see your play

Today, Shen Qinyan and I are in charge of a table of university students. It was only through their conversation that I realized they are my junior classmates. This group of high school students resembles the group of Lin Jinxiu from back in the day; they arrived early, were lively, and did not require much effort or concern from us.

The living room, warmed by the burning fireplace, is exceptionally cozy. An old record is playing on the turntable

The waiting time is simply too long, standing idly by while they finish eating, I looked up and saw an acquaintance again

I have been in contact with my mother for several months now, and I know she is a very strict person. When filming, she requires the staff to sign confidentiality agreements. It is permissible for reporters to visit the set and write some gossip news, but it must be done under the strict arrangement of the film company. At other times, not even a mosquito can enter her filming location. Every time I go to the set, I am personally received by her close assistant, Ji Xiaorui, which allows me to slightly step into this forbidden area

After speaking, I recalled that this was Gu Chijun's old profession, and he might be interested in pursuing the matter further; sure enough, he let out a sound of acknowledgment and asked me.

I did not expect him to be so straightforward, and I was momentarily taken aback

Ah, this is the first time I have seen him in person

After finishing work in the evening, I left with Shen Qinyan, and we chatted about the events of the night. He asked me, "Have you seen Gu Chijun?"

Gu Chijun's gaze made me momentarily suspect that he intended to follow me to watch the stage play, and I couldn't help but feel a sudden chill.

At that moment, after he hung up the phone, he appeared to be in a really bad mood, striding towards the elevator; I clearly knew this, yet I couldn't help but take a step closer—such an opportunity was too rare, and I didn't know when I would see him again. The products he endorsed were mostly luxury items, such as famous watches, cars, clothing, and diamonds, making it quite difficult to encounter him even once

Big Guo and Qin Yan are here

Of course, I stared directly into his eyes and said, "Mr. Gu, do you really think I care about a word from a mother who has never hugged me, never raised me, and suddenly reappeared after twenty years to interfere in my private life?"

In the scattered gossip news I have come across, it is often said that agents impose strict restrictions on the private lives of celebrities. While they may not interfere with whom a star chooses to sleep with, they will certainly intervene if the star engages in close relationships with the opposite sex. Film companies also do not stand idly by. Especially for a major star like Gu Chijun, if he were to spark a rumor with someone, the discontent from fans could be overwhelming, and their fragile hearts could fill the White Sand Bay.

What is it

Then I will not sit

Is this statement perhaps a compliment to me

Therefore, I never expected Shen Qinyan to react so quickly. His gaze swept to the door, and he immediately gasped, calling out softly, "Ah, Gu Chijun!"

The first visitor is the second sister and her husband, and the three exchanged a few pleasantries about the cold weather. The composed eldest sister expressed her feelings and mentioned the key figure: "Has the third one returned?"

Having finally finished my tasks, I turned around to complete the handover at the counter. Without lifting his head, the supervisor said, "Send the caviar to Box 3."

His elder brother and sister both disapprove of this marriage, as his wife is older than her and has a complicated past. He is too young, filled only with love, and has yet to learn how to interact with his wife. Their tone subtly conveys this sentiment, thus they ignore Yiyun's presence. Apart from his younger sister Lily, no one would take the initiative to speak to her, and she remained silent.

I thought for a moment and called Ji Xiaorui. I first told her that I wouldn't be able to meet my mother this week, and then casually asked about the news I saw in the newspaper. Ji Xiaorui sighed and said, "The company is already handling this news. It was written by a rookie reporter who doesn't understand the rules. It's not surprising that they exaggerate and speak without restraint."

Manluo's afternoon is relatively quiet. Most of the customers are white-collar workers from nearby financial buildings who come to discuss business. After 5 o'clock, it gets extremely busy. The flow of customers is not constant, but usually there won't be many empty seats before 9 o'clock. If you want a good seat, you usually have to book in advance. Having worked in the service industry for several months, I have a deep understanding of the fact that many wealthy people come to eat these flashy but impractical meals with large amounts of money.

He died, he died at the age of seventeen, at that time, I was fifteen. So young, isn't it terrifying?

The small theater is located not far from the park, it has been abandoned for a long time, the sunlight cannot shine through, it is rather gloomy and cold, and the corners of the walls are damp. However, after all, it is a theater, with very few old seats, only eight rows, and twelve people per row.

What happened? I thought to myself, do I really look that hungry?

He whispered to comfort his wife, but she suddenly asked, "What is that song? The one that was just played on the record." Her voice choked and trembled.

And she and Gu Chijun are an excellent combination of director and actor. They have been working together for more than ten years and have always been very harmonious, with no possibility of any "disagreement" rumors.

I excitedly hung up the phone. I have little knowledge of movies and plays, but I gained a general understanding over the past two years. Organizing a theater troupe is quite challenging; directors, screenwriters, actors, costumes, lighting, and props are all indispensable. Whether it is a short play, a drama, or an even shorter mime, it is a complex system project.

She just got off work and will arrive in half an hour, " explained Da Guo

Gu Chijun's other hand, which was resting on the back of my neck, slowly moved away as he nodded to them

I shook my head and said, "Mr. Gu, you are very good. I do not care what my mother thinks; I am just afraid that you and my mother will have another conflict, which is not good for anyone"

I think Shen Qinyan is probably more anxious and awkward than I am, because half an hour later, while I was on the subway, I received a hurried call from him. He immediately asked me bluntly: "You didn't have lunch at all, did you?"

Your mother told you not to associate with me, didn't she

Gu Chijun nodded his head. Before he could say anything, I quickly fled.

We went to the fast food restaurant for lunch, and then we went to Manro together. In the afternoon, we both had work; everything proceeded in an orderly manner. We each changed into our uniforms, applied our makeup, and then put on smiles before starting our shifts

"This is my friend, Xu Zhen," Shen Qinyan said as he strode towards the stage, pressing his hand against the edge of the stage. With a nimble movement, he leaped onto the one-meter-high small stage, then bent down and extended his arm towards me, saying, "Come up."

He stood with his back to the light, and as the distance closed, his features became blurred

Of course. His voice became much lighter, "As long as you don't mind."

I can see him so clearly, " after a while, she said: " He has such a pair of eyes. Big, dark eyes. There is also a kind of humanity in those eyes—such an expression!

I am very satisfied with a nod: "Two people studying together achieve twice the result with half the effort, but the effect of one person is also quite good. Although you are ill, your study results are surprisingly impressive"

Truth or dare

But it is not lonely here at all; I can hear the varying, slightly excited voices from afar. Now I can see more clearly the source of those sounds. On the stage stand more than ten young people, each in their respective positions, setting up the sound system, hanging face lights, ceiling lights, and ear lights, moving tables and lifting sofas. This is the construction of an indoor scene

Ji Xiaorui appeared hesitant to speak, and after stammering a few words, she finally said in a tone of resignation: "During the few days you were out, Mr. Gu would always ask Director Liang for leave, saying he had matters to attend to, but he did not inform Director Liang that he was with you. When Director Liang found out about this yesterday, he indeed threw quite a fit."

The remaining part is very similar to the original work "The Dead", with minimal changes

Mr. Gu, I said, "It's the first time I've seen you in Manluo."

She was very familiar with this group of people, and there was no need for greetings. She simply explained, "Please forgive my tardiness; we can begin now." As she started to remove her scarf and looked around, she saw me.

Observing in detail. Gu Chijun smiled and evaluated me this way. Man Luo's private room is usually designed for couples, with dim lighting. Gu Chijun's facial features under the light look like they were carved out, and his difficult-to-understand smile made me feel a chill down my spine.

I smiled politely at her and gave Shen Qinyan a thumbs-up gesture.

Subsequently, the scene faded away, and the living room disappeared into darkness. A long street emerged, with the streetlights flickering, and invisible snowflakes danced in the air

Of course!

Once again, the doorbell rang. Lily went to open the door, and Ruan Xiang and his wife Yiyun appeared at the entrance. Just like all the characters in the play, these two had not changed their outfits and were still dressed as I had just seen them.

The lights came on once again at the same time the doorbell rang, and Xiao Jian, playing the youngest sister of the Ruan family, Lily, joyfully rushed down the stairs to open the door

That posture was truly too skilled, clearly a habitual action. I clicked my tongue twice in my heart and set down the caviar

I remained silent, while Gu Chijun had already taken off his glasses, revealing a hint of a smile, "Please, have a seat"

"Is it snowing again, Third Brother?" Lily asked

"Is it someone you have loved?" he said sarcastically

I sat in the audience, engrossed in the script, until I was startled by a commotion and looked up. Li Anning finally arrived on time, appearing on stage

I do not know why, but I look forward to watching a play at a small theater more than my mother's annual grand performance

When they saw me and Shen Qinyan enter, everyone stopped what they were doing and quickly turned their gaze towards us. "Qinyan, is this the person you said would come to watch our play?"

The distance between the eyelashes is such that breathing can be heard

Shen Qinyan's eyes lit up, sparkling as he looked at me: "There is more."

I recall the pitiful situation of my first attempt to obtain a signature from Chi Jun

However, it seems rather inappropriate to discuss logical issues with her. After some contemplation, I finally spoke up

Oh, I think so too," I continued in agreement with him, "it's quite good

"That's really interesting," I said with a smile, "What dramas have you all acted in?"

Gu Chijun gazed at me, yet remained silent

The young man is wholeheartedly devoted to his wife, willing to protect her from any harm; she is the goddess in his heart

So far, there have only been two plays written by myself

Shen Qinyan pressed her lips together, coughed lightly, and before she could respond, a girl named Xiao Jian beside her interrupted, "It's called 'The Deceased,'" she said, handing me a stack of manuscripts from the table, "This is the script"}]}

Until I encountered him again in the hotel

A faint sound emanated from the private room

Who is this person from long ago

The young man supported his wife and said, "You seem a bit tired."

He received the answer and did not linger on the topic. He stood up, grabbed my wrist, and stood under the brightest wall lamp.

Before the result could reach him, it was intercepted by his assistant and bodyguard. I remember at that time his agent was also Zhang Shiyu, and he frowned as he asked me how I knew about this secret backdoor passage; I was so nervous that I didn't use any of the lines I had prepared, and instead, I stammered and inexplicably replied: Knowing oneself and knowing the other, investigating this is not difficult.

His friends all looked at me with smiles, and Shen Qinyan introduced them to me one by one. I finally got a clear look at them. This group of people were all, without exception, young individuals in their twenties. On the way here, Shen Qinyan mentioned that each of them shared a passion for drama and had met through the internet, forming the Starlight Theatre Troupe. Each of them had their own jobs, but they would take time to write scripts, find venues, and rehearse plays.

I said, "He seems quite amiable."

It is already quite rare to find such a theater, I said, it is acceptable to adapt to local conditions.

I did not say that Gu Chijun is a bad person.

Do you think so too, hmm? Gu Chijun said, "Is it that obvious?"

I feel that, compared to my mother's concise requests or commands, Gu Chijun's words are more complex and difficult to understand. He usually does not speak to me this way; it sounds gentle, yet the tone is quite firm.

Naturally, it is Sister Qinyan and Sister Anning. Ah, speaking of which, Sister Anning has not yet arrived

Now, because I have caused a conflict, I truly am too charming and too impressive

"Yes, I think I will stay up all night," Ruan Xiang replied to his younger sister. This sister was three years younger than him and had a slender figure. He smiled slightly, turned his face away, and reached out to brush off the nonexistent snowflakes from Yi Yun's shoulder. His hand was raised slightly high, and the way his arm moved was as if he were caressing a layer of shawl; however, Yi Yun paid little attention to this, quietly conversing with Lily as they walked towards the women's makeup room next to the living room.

"No, no, I don't find it funny," Ji Xiaorui replied, "It's just that when you put on this outfit, you seem like a different person. How should I put it? It surprisingly suits you very well. You look just like Hepburn from 'Dragon and Phoenix Match'"

He said, "I will move out"

"He dressed up like that, can you still recognize him?"

They really had a quarrel! I am quite surprised, as I thought they had always gotten along well. Oh, no, there was a disagreement when discussing the movie.

This question sounds interesting, I casually asked, "Who wrote the script?"

There is nothing between us, and borrowing a place to stay makes me very embarrassed, he paused and said, "I met Sister Anning in a fan club theater group. At that time, I didn't know..."

I do not know

I pressed my lips together, feeling a bit puzzled. My mother certainly does not wish for me to have too much contact with him, yet he defiantly comes to find me, making this situation quite intriguing

You have gone out several times, haven't you

Finally, it is settled. I breathed a sigh of relief; otherwise, my heart would have exploded. Upon opening my eyes, I realized that our faces were less than a finger's breadth apart.

The two of them left through the door, and Gu Chijun slowly began to speak, "They are a couple; they have been in a relationship for over six months now"

You scared her

I looked at Shen Qinyan in astonishment, not expecting him to possess such talent

Ruan Xiang watched his wife's silhouette disappear, standing by the door, diligently rubbing the snowflakes on the doormat; he then slowly unbuttoned the buttons of his coarse wool coat, his movements not very agile, and I could almost feel the snow crystallizing between his fingers and the seams of his clothing

My body simply does not obey my commands, remaining stubbornly still as Gu Chijun applies and adjusts on my face. My eyelids feel cool, yet my forehead and neck are burning, filled with heat.

I really wanted to sarcastically ask, "How do you handle it?" but I finally held back. I have no intention of becoming cannon fodder in the discord between him and my mother.

Indeed, if one is not a good person, the two of you would not have been able to collaborate for so many years. After ten years of cooperation, you can be considered to know each other very well.

I saw Shen Qinyan again, and the time was set for next week. His illness had already healed, which was to be expected, after all, with Li Anning's meticulous care, it would be unreasonable for him not to recover quickly. We sat in our usual spot in the park, as the year drew to a close, the weather grew increasingly cold, especially outdoors. I breathed warmth into my hands and carefully examined Shen Qinyan's test paper

That being said, what the journalist wrote in the news is not an exaggeration. I said slowly, "This matter is actually related to me, which is quite unbelievable."

Gu Chijun raised his head and looked around, seemingly surveying the restaurant. I took a step back, lowering my head to pretend I did not recognize him. The restaurant had strict rules, and I was still on duty; at this moment, greeting them was certainly not a wise choice. I had previously witnessed Gu Chijun's outstanding attire, which was quite discreet, and no one in the restaurant recognized him.

I set out early on Saturday morning to find Shen Qinyan

I apologize for the interruption, I said, I am completely an outsider

Uh, a play from a small theater troupe that my friend runs, "I Speak at Lightning Speed," I don't think it's worth watching, really not worth watching

Ah, Director Liang wants to speak with you

What do you think? Are you prepared to comply with her wishes?

I just feel this way, I said jokingly, I didn't expect to guess it right. Among Joyce's short stories, this is my favorite, and now I am truly looking forward to your performance.

This timing is just right, neither of us has a part-time job; I was originally planning to go to my mother's place, but it seems I can cancel that.

She replied: "I think he died for me"

In fact, he is overly amiable. He specifically came to find me to explain a matter that is not very important. Gu Chijun is actually meticulous in his dealings, with a kind and approachable demeanor, and he does not put on airs. When he smiles, it feels like a breath of spring, and although he may seem stern, giving the impression of an impending storm, there is also a sense of solemnity about him.

I have come to understand the reasons for revising the script. The young man feels perplexed and uneasy in front of his older wife. Her past is a void to him; he does not know whom she has known before, nor does he understand the nature of the love she has experienced. He loves her, yet another man's shadow lingers in her heart. In relationships, the infinite magnification of the differences between one person of the opposite sex and others is the root of all suffering. Her past is a void to him; he does not know whom she has known before, nor does he understand the nature of the love she has experienced. He loves her, yet another man's shadow lingers in her heart. In relationships, the infinite magnification of the differences between one person of the opposite sex and others is the root of all suffering

I nodded

It was only after they disappeared around the corner that Shen Qinyan suddenly realized, as if awakening from a dream, and with a swift turn of the head, asked, "Xu Zhen, did you see that?"

I completely cannot understand how a straightforward matter can be spoken of so ambiguously. Let me clarify immediately: the truth is, we simply went out to play some ball and have a meal, and it cannot be considered a date at all. Could it be that my mother is angry about this?

Little Rui, I know that the maid outfit is quite funny, but you are not the first person to make a joke at my expense

Zhang Shiyu fell silent, pulling Ji Xiaorui to stand up, "We will step outside for a moment, you all take your time to talk."

Xiao Zhen, Ji Xiaorui's tone carried a significant intention to comfort me, "Director Liang has her own considerations"

What play is it

My head was held by him with a force that was neither too heavy nor too light, yet I could not move. I wanted to speak but could not control my vocal cords, and could only gaze into his eyes, which were like magnets, utterly immovable.

In such a theater, one cannot pursue lighting effects. The stage is pitifully shabby, yet they truly put in a great effort to create that warm and ambiguous atmosphere typical of an old-fashioned living room. The director of this short play is Da Guo, but since he also plays the role of the elder brother in the performance, I became the sole audience member of this newly produced drama; the only other audience member could be considered the camera positioned in the center of the audience.

Xu Zhen. The voice was as crisp and clear as ever

I really do not know much about makeup. Before starting work at Monroe, I briefly looked at a crash course manual and then started working in a somewhat confused state. No one has ever said that my makeup was not good, so I have just continued like this for a few months.

There was not much we could do, so we could only gently pat her on the back; once she had vomited enough, we helped her back to the restaurant, went to get some hangover medicine and plain water to hand to her, asked someone to help clean her clothes, then settled the bill and sent off this table of students

Ji Xiaorui paused for a moment and said, "You have been dating Mr. Gu during this period, haven't you"

Is your play an adaptation of Joyce's "The Dead"?

With the strong support of Shen Qinyan, I was brought onto the stage

He said: "How is he doing now?"

Shen Qinyan shook his head, "No."

I never expected that this phrase "next time" would mean several years later

I was taken aback and quickly helped the girl up. She could get drunk from drinking red wine; her tolerance was truly smaller than that of a pea. When a person is drunk, their body feels incredibly heavy, and since she was slightly overweight, my companion, another girl, and I exerted a great deal of effort to assist her to the women's restroom. She leaned against the sink and vomited in a rather awkward manner.

He gently exhaled and said, "We have a relatively formal rehearsal for our play next Saturday morning. Would you like to come and watch?"

How is it that Zhang Shiyu completely does not interfere with Gu Chijun? Moreover, Ji Xiaorui, as my mother's assistant, should be obedient to her words, yet it seems she has been bribed by Gu Chijun

His hand was pressed against my face, his brow furrowed, his thin lips pursed, and the corners of his mouth turned up. For a brief moment, I thought his lips were about to touch mine

Raisins, apricots, figs, chocolate, wine, and sherry were spread across the table as the family engaged in leisurely conversation

I returned to school and went to the cafeteria for a meal, casually picking up a newspaper from the roadside. In the afternoon sunlight, I ate while reading. The news articles came one after another, providing a comprehensive view of world news and national affairs; finally, I turned to the entertainment section, where the headline was related to the "Three Provisions." The reporting journalist claimed that he had quietly infiltrated the film set yesterday and unexpectedly witnessed a very serious argument between Gu Chijun and my mother. The details of the dispute were not specified, but it mentioned that my mother expressed her intention to part ways with Gu Chijun.

Shen Qinyan told me: "Our theater environment is not very good, but the rent is almost negligible"

I was rambling and speaking at a rapid pace, explaining that I had been a fan of his for a long time and expressing my admiration for him, which is why I had been waiting at the exit with boundless anticipation. I also mentioned that I had just participated in an event and received a gift from him, for which I was very grateful. Due to my excitement, I repeated the same sentence several times and completely forgot to ask him for his autograph. He was quite patient, listening to my long-winded speech, but eventually, he couldn't hold back any longer. He raised his wrist to check the time, interrupted me, and said淡淡地, "Next time," before turning to leave.

Due to the small number of participants, each person holds multiple roles. Today marks their first formal rehearsal without scripts, accompanied by a few props.

The lights on the stage completely dimmed, and as several skylights were closed, the surroundings fell into a darkness where one could not see their own hand, signaling that the play would soon begin

The young man said: "Ah, I'm drunk, I'm drunk, waiter!"

I opened my eyes wide and looked at this ace agent

The next moment, my mother's voice appeared on the other end of the phone signal

Now the surprise has shifted to them. Da Guo exclaimed, "Impressive! At first, we were saying that this story was too obscure. Did Qinyan tell you this?"

However, the time that has been missed cannot be made up

"It will be here soon," Lily said with a cheerful smile

How could such terrifying thoughts exist in my mind! There must be something wrong somewhere; the timing, the setting, and the people are all off. No matter how I think about it, it feels wrong. Gu Chijun has acted in too many romantic films, to the point where he unconsciously plays the role of the deeply affectionate male lead in real life, capable of making a young girl cry rivers of snot and tears. He really shouldn't treat me this way; it shows a lack of loyalty to friendship. I think he knows that I, as his fan, cannot resist temptation; I am merely an innocent bystander.

He had a stern expression and looked unwell. At that moment, I was completely immersed in the excitement of seeing a living idol and did not notice that he looked unwell

There is not a sound in the theater, and very soft music drifts out from the corner

Close your eyes

Shen Qinyan has surprisingly achieved his dreams in such a silent and unobtrusive manner, and I am filled with admiration

I nodded. He already knew what to ask.

"How could the song 'The Girl from Ogri' make you cry?"

It is merely such a simple thought

His tone and meaning progressed to another level, "Xiao Zhen, I really enjoy being with you, whether it's visiting exhibitions, playing basketball, or having meals together. I don't want you to distance yourself from me because of Director Liang. But I don't know if your feelings towards me are the same."

I put on a standard waiter smile and said, "Well, I will take my leave now, enjoy your meal."

So, does that mean you loved him at that time

The smile faded from his face, and anger began to gather on his youthful countenance. Certain subtle clues, fleeting insights, and those long-standing memories surged within his heart.

Shen Qinyan's voice rose slightly, "It's not a big deal. Besides, this is not solely my achievement; it is the result of a group of like-minded individuals coming together."

My mother truly overestimates me; how could I dare to pursue a romantic relationship with Gu Chijun? Before this phone call today, I hadn't even dared to think about it. When I was with Gu Chijun, the most absurd fantasy I had was that years later, when I am old, sitting in a rocking chair, watching old movies, I would point to the people in the films and reminisce with my sons, grandsons, and granddaughters, sighing that I too once had youth and had called friends together with my idol. When I was with Gu Chijun, the most absurd fantasy I had was that years later, when I am old, sitting in a rocking chair, watching old movies, I would point to the people in the films and reminisce with my sons, grandsons, and granddaughters, sighing that I too once had youth and had called friends together with my idol

Three individuals exchanged a few words in low voices and, under the guidance of the supervisor, proceeded towards the eastern side, where there was a private room.

Gu Chijun walked at the front, startled by the commotion. He stopped, turned back to glance at me, then walked back and asked the person beside him in a low male voice, "What is happening?"

What filming plans do you currently have

He remained silent, and he was very angry

From the moment I entered the small theater, I noticed Xiao Jian; her smile was incredibly sweet, and she spoke very quickly. I had assumed she would be the leading actress in this play, but to my surprise, she was not. The lead roles were actually played by the sibling duo, Shen Qinyan and Li Anning

I am here to see you

The mother's voice was decisive, "It is best that you are not in a romantic relationship."

During the following time, I carefully examined the script of this short play, which has undergone significant changes by Shen Qinyan. The number of characters has been reduced compared to the original, and most of their names have been altered. The majority of the scenes take place indoors, essentially transforming it into a one-act indoor play. The plot has been somewhat condensed, but remains largely unchanged. During the New Year, at the annual family gathering of the Ruan family, the newlywed third brother visits his elder brother and sister with his new wife. The families gather together to chat, dance, and drink tea, eventually discussing the lives of the young couple. Finally, the couple leaves the elder brother's home, and at that moment, it is snowing outside

"Regarding what happened last Friday, I feel it is necessary to discuss it with you," he explained. "I originally intended to call you, but after all, it is always unclear when speaking over the phone, and it does not seem sincere enough. You mentioned that you work at Manro four days a week, so I thought I would come to find you."

The room is not large, containing only a pair of sofas, one side of which can accommodate two people. I pointed to the clothes with a serious expression, saying, "I am now a waiter and cannot sit down with the guests."

Who are the main actors?

Isn't it obvious? I said, Mr. Zhang, who is very competent and has a rigid demeanor, is quite gentle with Sister Xiao Rui.

That gaze, I simply cannot comprehend. I can only blush and look innocently at the wall lamp behind Gu Chijun. The lamp is indeed very bright, excessively so. My heartbeat shows no sign of slowing down, and my palms instinctively clench tightly, already damp with sweat, though I cannot tell if it is hot or cold.

I say: "You trust me, I have discretion."

I nodded and sighed, "It really hasn't been easy."

I was taken aback

It is rare to see Aqin bringing friends along," Da Guo said cheerfully, "Welcome to share your opinions.

"Who said that! Truly remarkable," I praised him with great enthusiasm, "I used to think you were just passionate about performing, but I never expected that your love for it would lead you to organize a small theater troupe! You can definitely include this in your university application!"