Chapter 2 The Kiss of the Spider Woman

Unexpectedly, at that moment, the young man spoke up, still wearing the same smile that captivated everyone's attention. He began with a very ordinary topic: "What do you think of the play tonight?"

Just open it and you'll know. What, are you afraid there are anthrax bacteria inside?

He felt inexplicably awkward, not because of the kiss between men, but rather as if he had suddenly intruded upon an intimate and private atmosphere, which made him even more restless.

Amidst the laughter of the crowd, Xie Minglang felt a bit embarrassed and, without further ado, opened the letter. Upon taking a look inside, someone in the onlooking crowd exclaimed, "Isn't this a ticket for 'Kiss of the Spider Woman'?"

Xie Minglang stood up somewhat awkwardly, snatched the ticket from that person's hand, and took a look himself. It was for the Saturday evening performance of the third week, in the auditorium. Although it was not an S-class ticket directly facing the stage, it was still considered a very good position among the A-class tickets.

He only said: "It would be better if there were more actors on stage. When there are only two people, comparisons are inevitable. However, considering that he chose Zheng Xiao over actors who are not as good as himself to share the stage, he is still determined to perform this role well"

Indeed, as the second half began, some aspects that had puzzled Xie Minglang in the first half gradually became clear: he finally understood the source of Molina's effeminacy, as well as the strange tension and inexplicable sense of distance that existed between the two of them during their interactions

Yan Cai nodded

I am really hungry. I was rushing to finish my work at noon, and after getting off work, I went to pick you up

Xie Minglang turned around to find where her gaze had landed: "What are you looking at?"

At that moment, he immediately spotted the target: after all, a tall and handsome man is always very conspicuous

The first half ended amidst Valentinna's embarrassing dysentery, which was precisely the subtle turning point of the plot. As the lights came on again, Xie Minglang was still lost in thought when he heard Pan Feifei beside him whisper: "What the magazine said is indeed true; Yan Cai has completely transformed in this play."

As Pan Feifei's complexion grew increasingly worse, the young man finally said: "It is getting late, and I must be on my way. I enjoyed our conversation this evening and hope there will be another opportunity to meet. My name is Wei Ke"

All returns to darkness and silence

But he had no time to think deeply; the lights, thank heaven, came on. He glanced at Pan Feifei's posture and also took a look at the young man who had only just taken his seat during the intermission. In that instant of withdrawing his gaze, he caught a glimpse of an exceptionally handsome profile.

Sister Peng is giving us a lesson again

Pan Feifei did not expect so many people, feeling somewhat bored, yet stubbornly said: "The fact that there are still so many people at this time indicates that business is good. Moreover, I will treat you to this meal; where do you find a guest who speaks like this?"

"What nonsense are you talking about?" After she finished this sentence, her mind was still searching for other words to retaliate more fiercely, but she suddenly lost her words due to the unexpected appearance of someone.

Yan Cai smiled and said, "Seeing your photo made me realize that I am getting older."

He performed very well himself

After a period of time, the play opened as scheduled. Following the media preview on the second Saturday, a scene that could be described as somewhat expected emerged: in the writings of professional critics, all the praise was directed towards another lead actor, Zheng Xiao. Yan Cai's performance, even from the most mild-mannered critics, received comments such as, "Although he possesses great personal charm and can consistently capture the audience's attention, he evidently requires more practice in performing beyond the camera lens." However, the focus of entertainment publications, which are not strictly professional theater critiques, was entirely different: most entertainment magazines reported enthusiastically on the performance's grandeur, also offering comments like, "Although he possesses great personal charm and can consistently capture the audience's attention, he evidently requires more practice in performing beyond the camera lens." Yet, aside from professional theater critiques, the entertainment sector's perspective was completely different: many entertainment newspapers passionately reported on the spectacle of the performance, detailing how fans arrived days in advance to wait outside the box office for the limited tickets and refunds available on the day of the show, the fervor and madness during each curtain call, Yan Cai's performance on stage and his interactions with Zheng Xiao, as well as the sensitivity of the play itself, all of which could easily fill an entire page of coverage. In one issue of the country's largest circulation magazine, "Entertainment Weekly," a reporter quoted a fan saying, "The words of theater critics may be professional, but they hold no relevance for us. We do not decide whether to buy tickets based on their critiques. As long as he stands on stage, the entire dim theater seems to suddenly light up; for me, that is enough."

Involving her parents, Pan Feifei no longer held any grudges and obediently followed Xie Minglang out of the theater. Outside the theater, there were also crowds of people, a sea of black, excitedly discussing the play they had just seen.

Xie Minglang was well aware of her intentions but chose not to expose them: "Alright, let's go."

Xie Minglang found it difficult to look away, redirecting his attention back to the stage. After this night, the interactions between the two would inevitably be awkward, yet there was an added warmth that had not existed before. The story continues, the mystery slowly unravels, the young revolutionary remains a prisoner, while the homosexual, treated as a pawn, is subjected to another move by the unseen authorities behind the scenes—parole.

Hello Minglang, you are quite dull. Just saying. However, even though I know it's all an act, such eloquence still feels quite unfamiliar. Of course, no matter what, eloquence is indeed eloquence!

In the end, he heard his girlfriend say something, and he unconsciously repeated it. Although this dream was brief, it was filled with happiness

As the stage lights quickly illuminated, Xie Minglang was taken aback upon seeing Yan Cai for the first time. This surprise was intensified by his habit of never looking at reviews or stills beforehand, making the impact even more striking: compared to their last meeting, Yan Cai had lost a considerable amount of weight, his cheekbones protruding prominently, and he had shaved his head, resembling a model prisoner who had served a long sentence. He was draped in a somewhat worn, intricately patterned bathrobe that was completely at odds with his sharp and simple appearance, lazily leaning against the bed, examining one of his hands. After a moment, he slowly spoke in a soft yet polite tone: "I have watched many films, perhaps you might be interested."

After the press conference, "Silver Screen" once again arranged a brief interview with Yan Cai. The duration was short, only about five to six minutes, mainly to take a few photographs

As long as it is a new play that I have never seen before, I do not read reviews before watching it. Otherwise, what is the point

During his internship, he took many excellent photographs, and soon other publications and photo agencies came to poach him. Xie Minglang actually did not want to leave, as he owed Meng Yu a great deal of gratitude; however, the editor-in-chief was unaware of the underlying reasons and formally hired him instead, which inadvertently resulted in a delightful addition to the situation.

This play consists of only one scene and is primarily driven by the dialogue between two characters. Molina, portrayed with a leisurely pace, narrates one film scene after another, and his effeminate tone initially feels somewhat jarring. However, as the plot unfolds, it gradually becomes more engaging. The more intense part of the performance is taken on by Valentí, played by Zheng Xiao, who embodies a completely different character—young, vibrant, and passionately steadfast in his beliefs. He has the energy to pace back and forth in the narrow cell, seizing the opportunity to study the books hidden beneath the floorboards whenever the guard is absent. Yet, despite these admirable qualities, the young man is also unstable and impatient; he becomes agitated when Molina "forgets" the plot of the film and can erupt in anger when his faith is questioned.

"Feifei," Xie Minglang gently reminded her

Mr. Yan has a good memory As a newcomer, Xie Minglang naturally put on a look of being flattered and overwhelmed

Xie Minglang looked at her sparkling eyes and knew she was very excited. He quickly said: "I have never read this story, nor have I seen any reviews, so if you know anything, please do not say anything."

He couldn't help but smile wryly: "What a thing to say. I don't know who sent me this letter, it has neither a name nor an address, I just can't figure it out."

The news of Molina's death is conveyed through voiceover, while Valenti struggles in pain on the bed. The surrounding background fades into darkness, with only the bed he lies on illuminated. Beside him is a doctor who says, "They are tormenting you. Shall I give you a shot of morphine? You will be able to forget this torment and have a good sleep."

The other party, however, did not mind, turning to Pan Feifei and slightly raising both hands: "Miss, I hold no prejudice against Yan Cai. It is merely that you and I have different standards for what constitutes 'good.' Moreover, I never said he is not a good actor..."

As it became increasingly difficult to evade the issue, Xie Minglang decided to speak frankly. The group that had initially been lively and teasing Xie Minglang with scandalous gossip immediately lost interest upon hearing this. One of the editors who had been with "Yinping" for four or five years chuckled and said, "Yan Cai is just like that. This is why so many reporters are completely won over by him. Although it is merely a matter of reciprocity, it is rare for him to remember, and to do it appropriately, which is something the current young celebrities cannot achieve."

Xie Minglang turned the envelope over and over for a long time, yet he could not find any clues. His frequent examination of the envelope finally drew the attention of others in the office. During the lunch break, a few colleagues who usually had a good relationship with him gathered around: "Minglang, why do you keep holding that envelope? It isn't a love letter that you lack the courage to send, is it?"

There are many ways to watch a play. Just because you are watching this way, does it mean that I am not watching?

Upon seeing the ticket, he immediately understood what was going on, yet it was still far beyond his expectations. His colleagues were all chattering and asking about the ticket, as this production of "Kiss of the Spider Woman" by Yan Cai is considered a significant event in the entertainment industry this year. A single ticket has been auctioned on a website for an astonishing price, and one cannot deny the so-called "celebrity effect," which holds true even in the traditionally quiet market of theater.

Isn't acting all the same? I haven't heard that the theatrical stage is so magical that once a Best Actor at the Golden Horse Awards steps onto it, they can no longer act

Pan Feifei felt that her makeup was a bit smudged, and she immediately lost the desire to bicker with Xie Minglang. She gave him a light tap and said, "You go in first, I will touch up my makeup."

After taking a seat and placing the order, as he watched the waiter walk away, Xie Minglang leaned back and began to tease Pan Feifei: "Look at this lively atmosphere; if I were Yan Cai, I wouldn't even dare to come in."

He couldn't help but smile more deeply: "I just watched this play a few more times, and I had a bit to drink today, so I got a little too excited. I said some nonsense, please don't take it to heart."

These two individuals have strangely achieved a certain balance on this small stage

Despite the starkly contrasting reviews, the momentum of "Kiss of the Spider Woman" has grown increasingly formidable

This is how the story ends

Just as he finished scanning the area, Pan Feifei returned. Upon seeing the program in his hand, she snatched it away to take a look. However, before she could turn to the second page, the lights flickered a few times and finally went out. The buzzing whispers that had been omnipresent just a moment ago instantly vanished as the performance began

Where are you watching the show from ... ...

That was indeed an illusion

Some eager individuals took the initiative to pick it up and examine it closely, and after looking, they exclaimed: "Minglang, you are quite skilled; where did you get such a good ticket?"

The man ordered a set meal, so it arrived even earlier than their dinner. The initial atmosphere was somewhat awkward; Pan Feifei started eating without looking up, burying her head in her food. Xie Minglang found it amusing and quietly kicked her, only to be kicked back even more fiercely. After several such exchanges, he stopped teasing her, put away his amused demeanor, and began to eat earnestly.

The theater was nearly filled, mostly with young people who arrived in groups, excitedly whispering among themselves. Xie Minglang bought a program for the performance, but the lighting was too dim, making it difficult to read, so he had to give up and instead began to observe the theater itself and the stage a few meters away.

The last story has not yet reached its conclusion, and the two are about to part ways. Just before their farewell, they suddenly realize that they have done everything that lovers should do, except for sharing a kiss

Xie Minglang sighed and said to her, "He performs six days a week, and if he takes seven or eight bows each time, that would be exhausting. Alright, let's go, I will treat you to a meal"

After Yan Cai and Zheng Xiao returned to the stage once, regardless of how eagerly the audience applauded in hopes of seeing them again, they did not appear on stage again. The older audience members had begun to leave one after another, while most of those still wildly applauding and cheering were Yan Cai's fans. Pan Feifei also refused to leave, ultimately standing up and straining to look towards the backstage area on tiptoe.

"What? Do you want me to tell you? I have done my homework carefully for this performance." Feifei's spirits were lifted once again.

Not bad. I was unaware of the plot beforehand, so I was quite surprised by the second half. The actors were all very good, and I did not expect Zheng Xiao to perform so well

Yan Cai listened quietly and turned to Xie Minglang with a continued smile: "I have a rehearsal this afternoon, so let's just take photos this time."

Xie Minglang was taken aback: "No, I was just wondering what you do. I apologize for my rudeness."

Pan Feifei let out a cold snort, and Xie Minglang took the lead in responding: "Too invested? I actually think that in some areas, it is overly constrained."

On the day when Xie Minglang and Pan Feifei went to see a play, they had just gotten out of the taxi when they were startled by the dense crowd. Immediately, someone approached and asked: "Are there any tickets available for refund?"

When I was studying, I would always wait outside the theater for student tickets to experimental plays. I didn't really understand it, I just liked the feeling of being in the theater. Xie Minglang quickly broke free from this indulgence, gave a slight bow, and said, "I apologize for taking up your time. For the next interview, we will call to schedule in advance. I wish you a successful rehearsal this afternoon"

Pan Feifei reluctantly nodded, and Wei Ke did not mind, continuing to chat casually with Xie Minglang during the brief few minutes of waiting to check out. They were engaged in a lively conversation, hardly noticing Feifei sulking in the corner, and naturally, they were even less aware of the sound of the door opening at that moment

Pan Feifei laughed and said, "Minglang, with a mouth like yours, it's no wonder you can't attract girls. The moment you open your mouth, they all run away."

At first glance, it seems somewhat unrelated: "There are too many entanglements. It would be better if his role were swapped with Zheng Xiao's."

Their first formal conversation took place three months later. The first interview assignment after Xie Minglang's official appointment was the press conference for a film in which Yan Cai was starring.

In the past few months, he has been following Meng Yu or Yang Tong to conduct interviews, gaining considerable experience in various events, but he has had no further interaction with Yan Cai. During this meeting, Xie Minglang handed over his business card, and Yan Cai smiled as she accepted it without looking at it, instead looking directly into Xie Minglang's eyes and saying: "Xie Minglang, right?"

Hello, at this moment, there is no need for you to adopt a condescending attitude to lecture me. It was clearly you who mentioned that you had some unclear points.

It's fine, my dad and your mom have discussed it, anyway, you won't be able to get married, so we might as well make do with each other.

How do you know that you are not becoming more confused

They finally managed to separate the persistent crowd waiting for tickets, and after checking their tickets, they entered the venue, both of them breaking into a light sweat. Xie Minglang couldn't help but chuckle bitterly: "The show hasn't even started yet, and the scene outside is already more captivating than the performance itself. If I hadn't seen it for myself, I would never have known that Yan Cai could be this popular."

Xie Minglang said: "I think he performed very well. Of course, this is not to say that Yan Cai did poorly, but how should I put it, the backbone of this play should actually be on Yan Cai's shoulders. His role should have been easier to win applause, but because Zheng Xiao's performance was too dazzling, Yan Cai was overshadowed. Therefore, this should be considered a failure for him."

A few days after the interview, Xie Minglang suddenly received a letter. There was no sender, no return address, and even the handwriting was unfamiliar. He could not imagine who had written to him. Moreover, in this day and age, communication between people is primarily through phone calls or emails, with instant messaging tools emerging one after another. Who would still be willing to take the time to write a letter?

She spoke with great conviction, completely oblivious to the empty seat beside her that was suddenly occupied by someone. Xie Minglang noticed it before she did; he glanced over and, in the dim light, could only see that it was a young man who, upon sitting down, lowered his head, lost in thought.

At this moment, Xie Minglang was truly taken aback, and then he felt somewhat embarrassed, scratching his head and shyly saying: "I was still worried about having my wrinkles captured in the photo"

As she was pondering why this person seemed somewhat familiar, the other party also noticed them, smiled, and walked over. In that brief moment, Pan Feifei quickly said: "This person was sitting next to me while watching the show. You don't recognize him, do you?"

Pan Feifei immediately frowned and said: "I didn't feel anything... I was just watching Yan Cai, where would I have the time to care about anything else"

Everyone laughed and dispersed, each attending to their own matters, finally returning the leisure to Xie Minglang. Xie Minglang stared at the two theater tickets; although he still felt a bit confused, the thought of Feifei's expression upon seeing this ticket made him secretly begin to feel a sense of anticipation and joy.

Upon hearing this statement, Xie Minglang sighed inwardly, thinking that yet another crazy theater enthusiast had appeared. At that moment, Pan Feifei, who had been silent until now, spoke up. She frowned, clearly dissatisfied, and her tone was indeed unfriendly: "How can Yan Cai perform poorly? This role is inherently difficult, and this is his first time acting in a stage play. To manage such a complex character to the point of evoking tears, is he not a good actor?"

The theater is surprisingly small, with a total of two levels and seating for two to three hundred people, surrounding the stage on three sides. The stage is very close to the audience, slightly elevated above the seats, allowing the front row spectators to reach out and touch the stage floor. Xie Minglang noticed several young girls in the front row reaching out to tap the floor, producing a rather crisp echo. The entire stage is meticulously arranged; although it is merely a simple prison cell, some details are strikingly realistic, truly making one feel as if they are experiencing that damp and dark prison.

I was just speaking casually; perhaps it will become clear in the second half

He shrugged: "It's not going to happen anyway"

Everyone has arrived

The person expressed gratitude and sat down generously. Out of politeness, he took a seat beside Xie Minglang, facing Pan Feifei. Xie Minglang felt embarrassed to keep staring at the stranger, so he turned to look at Pan Feifei. To his surprise, as he watched her, he suddenly realized that at some point, her cheeks had turned completely red.

It is nothing. Zheng Xiao has always been the better performer among the two. However, the vast majority of people come to see Yan Cai, and hardly anyone pays attention to him

Xie Minglang's first reaction was to go see Pan Feifei. It was pitch dark, and he could hardly see anything. However, what surprised him was that Feifei was not staring intently at the stage as he had expected; instead, she occasionally turned her head quickly to the person sitting next to her, clearly sneaking glances at them.

It is likely that the intentions of the inebriated man are not focused on the wine itself

Many people stood up, wanting to see more clearly. The eloquence during the curtain call transformed back into the familiar demeanor, the previously delicate femininity completely vanished, as she gracefully bowed to the audience in all directions. When she straightened up, the vitality in her smile made her radiate with brilliance.

It was quite strange; from Xie Minglang's position, he could clearly see the expressions of the two people on stage as they kissed. As a performance, this French kiss was overly realistic, to the point of making Xie Minglang feel uneasy. He observed Zheng Xiao's focused and engrossed demeanor, as well as Yan Cai's initial slight fear, followed by a puzzling indifference that bordered on apathy.

As the drama reaches its conclusion, Valenti chooses to respond to Molina. At that moment, the lights go out completely, and everything becomes an ambiguous and blurred silhouette. Although the two people squeezed onto a single bed do not engage in any direct or explicit actions, the sexual innuendos between them are sufficient for the audience to understand what is likely to happen next

Xie Minglang extended his hand: "Xie Minglang. This is my sister Pan Feifei"

Is there? Pan Feifei smiled, then said, "That must be it."

The image of his girlfriend appeared before him, as if she were looking at him, conversing with him, bringing him courage and strength. He then told her the story of the Spider Woman, who wore a silver mask, with the web becoming a part of her body, and she was crying

Isn't the age inappropriate?" Xie Minglang pondered his suggestion and suddenly found it interesting. "Although Yan Cai does not appear old, it is still somewhat awkward to have someone in their thirties portray a revolutionary in their twenties.

I am so excited that I am not hungry at all

Pan Feifei clapped her hands desperately while wiping her tears. After a while, Xie Minglang glanced at her, wanting to ask whether she was so excited to see Yan Cai or truly moved by the play itself. This action inevitably drew his attention to the young man seated one row away, who was also clapping vigorously, his gaze equally focused and fervent

After a considerable amount of time had passed without a response, he noticed that Xie Minglang was staring at him and asked, "Did I say something to offend you?"

His smile remained unchanged: "It seems you are not a regular at the theater, at least you haven't been keeping up with the recent reviews."

Pan Feifei meticulously applied her makeup, complemented by a newly purchased little dress. Faced with the surging crowd, her first reaction was to tightly grasp the arm of Xie Minglang beside her. However, Xie Minglang's situation was not necessarily optimistic—after all, hearing about a throng of onlookers is one thing, but experiencing it firsthand is quite another.

Although it is phrased as a question, the tone is quite assertive

At this point, he became interested, put down his chopsticks, slightly turned his body, and said to Xie Minglang: "Have you noticed that this theater is particularly small? Generally speaking, for a lineup like this, the investors would choose to perform in a larger theater. Given the current situation, either Yan Cai is not accustomed to performing in front of too many audience members—this is clearly impossible for him; or, his stage voice training is insufficient. As someone who is strong-willed and pursues perfection in every aspect, he would probably prefer to choose a smaller venue rather than go to a place he cannot handle"

The other party nodded in approval: "Although you say you haven't read any reviews, many critics share similar views. Yan Cai is an outstanding film actor, but as a theatrical actor, he may not be as remarkable."

It was nearly 11 o'clock, yet the restaurant was still bustling with people. Upon inquiring at the front desk, I found that there was just one table left.

Feifei, you are too excited today

Yan Cai nodded and said sincerely, "I really liked the photos you took during the interview with Meng Yu last time"

"Alright, alright, this meal is on me," Pan Feifei interrupted him with a flattering smile. "I heard there is a nice restaurant nearby where the actors often go to eat and drink after the show. Let's go eat there."

Since he said so, Xie Minglang found it difficult to refute anything alone. After changing to another room to take the photos, when they shook hands to say goodbye, Xie Minglang asked: "Is it 'Kiss of the Spider Woman'?"

The young man, not in a hurry to argue, smiled and said: "He invested too much emotion and was too immersed in the performance. This is an unnecessary waste for a play that runs six times a week for three consecutive months. Of course, this is just my offhand remark, merely a personal opinion"

Pan Feifei remains undeterred, while Xie Minglang almost pulls her along, saying: "If you continue like this, how can I dare to bring you next time if there are tickets? Your mother will find out and say that I have led you astray."

Xie Minglang smiled and said: "Alright, alright, it's for watching, it's for watching. Fans watch people, I watch the play, isn't that acceptable? However, I have no prior knowledge of this play at all, and there are still some aspects that I haven't quite understood..."

After a few seconds of complete silence, sporadic applause began to sound, quickly merging into a wave of applause, interspersed with excited cheers from women. Soon, the entire theater was illuminated, and Yan Cai, who had left the stage earlier, returned to the stage at some point, bowing to the audience alongside Zheng Xiao. Both of them were covered in sweat, and under the bright lights, their foreheads glistened; countless tiny specks of dust swirled around them, as if under some unknown magic.

What would you like to eat

They embraced tightly, trembling, and then shared a passionate kiss

Yan Cai was originally prepared to leave, but upon hearing such admiration from Xie Minglang, her steps slowed down again, and she smiled slightly: "Do you enjoy watching plays?"

Today is the fifth match. Actually, my seat is on the second floor. During the first half, I noticed that the seats next to you were unoccupied, so I took the opportunity during the break to rush over and occupy a spot.

Before Xie Minglang could speak, Pan Feifei had already taken the initiative to say: "No problem, please have a seat"

The atmosphere has become somewhat aggressive, and the mood at the dining table has shifted accordingly. Xie Minglang understands that this is a loyal fan defending their idol of many years; if he were to interject, it would surely not end well for him. However, he still somewhat agrees with the stranger.

As she was about to fall into the self-indulgence of her fans again, Xie Minglang couldn't help but pour a bucket of cold water on her: "Don't you think Zheng Xiao performed better?"

"Oh dear, anyway, once the performance starts, it will be pitch black, who can see anything..." The joking tone was ultimately interrupted by a cry of pain.

During the first week of ticket sales, one of us called to make a reservation while another waited outside the box office, yet we still failed to secure a single ticket. The meaning of the phrase "hard to get a ticket" has finally become clear to me. Truly, it is your show; even with two months remaining until the premiere, tickets are already sold out.

"No, no, that is not what I meant," Xie Minglang shook his head, "You just said you have watched the play several times, but isn't today your first time watching this one?"

I have not seen you put this much effort into your studies before

I only had time to say, "How could I recognize you?" when that person had already arrived at their table, maintaining a smiling expression, and politely said, "I was sitting next to you when you watched 'Kiss of the Spider Woman.' There are no seats available in the restaurant now, and this is a table for four. Would you mind sharing a seat with me?"

After midnight, the guests gradually left, and apart from their table, only a large table in another corner of the restaurant remained.

This sentence sounded quite different to Xie Minglang. He initially intended to explain, but at that moment, Ge Huai unexpectedly appeared from somewhere. After waiting for a while and confirming that it was not an interview, he stepped forward and quietly said a couple of words to Yan Cai.

All the lights went out once more, and Valenti's voice simultaneously resonated, calm and serene, as if it were drifting in a dream.