Chapter 9: The Years Like Water

Hearing Wei Ke interject, "Indeed, you should recognize him," Xie Minglang also nodded and shook hands with the outstretched hand of Ji Zhanming, saying, "Come over to attend the annual meeting"

Pan Feifei smiled and teased him, saying, "Well, now that you are a wealthy person, you are truly generous. What does it mean to be rich and noble, yet not forget one’s roots? However, your eagerness to send me away, is there something you are trying to hide?"

I have recently been considering taking on a role in a film, which requires an audition, and I am currently studying the script

Pan Feifei still wore a strange smile: "Why are you so eager to deny it? Alas, could it be that you are a newly debuted young starlet, afraid of rumors and keeping your mouth sealed? Minglang, unknowingly, you have also managed to make a name for yourself."

Well, later the sun came out, and the birds all woke up. On the riverbank, there were flocks of various cranes, storks, swans, geese, and other colorful waterfowl, all incredibly beautiful. Especially as the morning sun reflected on the lake's surface, a group of white cranes took off from the water... We spent more than half a day in that damp and cold shelter, and when we finally emerged, our feet could barely walk. However, at that moment, we were still too excited. After coming out, we rushed towards the lakeshore, startling all the nearby birds into flight. We stepped into the water to continue photographing, acting like madmen, completely forgetting the local people's warnings about not going into the water.

However, he was too tall, and with Ji Zhanming being held up like this, both of them were struggling to walk. Xie Minglang had already said his goodbyes, but upon seeing this scene, he still chased after them and patted Wei Ke's shoulder: "If you continue like this, you will be exhausted by the time you walk back. Let me help."

Pan Feifei heard the pretense of another impending strike, and amidst the laughter and teasing, Xie Minglang finally managed to smoothly divert the topic without any disturbance. After a while, Pan Feifei asked again: "Are you going home for the New Year this year?"

The season exhibition finally spoke up, his voice was quite strange, and for a moment no one paid much attention. Wei, who loved to joke and stir up trouble, was only supporting him at this moment, as if trying to help him stand up straighter. Seeing this, Xie Minglang smiled and said: "Why are you acting like an old woman, so fussy? If you can't drink, you should know when to stop. Let's save the rest of the conversation for next time. Goodbye"

She was lost in thought, and when she looked at the clock again, it was already a quarter past seven, yet the person had not arrived. She couldn't help but glance at Xie Minglang, who, noticing her gaze, lifted his eyes from the magazine and smiled slyly: "Feel free to ask, next time I'll have you wait on the bench at Lakeside Park at midnight."

I see now

The hotel is just a few minutes away, I will take him for a walk to unwind a bit.

Wei can hear interesting things, urging the season to continue: "This journey of cutting through thorns and brambles must surely lead to a good day ahead"

"Old Ji, you have never lacked enthusiasm for work; what you lack is the awareness to get along with others amicably. You know, if I don't pull you out for a drink today, everyone else will run away. " Wei Ke laughed and turned to ask Xie Minglang, "Xie Minglang, has Old Ji always had this poker face since university? We were all quite afraid of him, like a tiger or leopard."

What you are saying indicates that you are determined to secure this role

It can be said this way

"Where did you think I went?" Xie Minglang replied with an indifferent expression, "I lose track of time when I get busy, didn't you already know that?"

I am an actor, and it is quite normal to audition for roles that I desire

He kindly supported Ji Zhanming, helping him to stand up. When Xie Minglang saw this scene, he shook his head and said, "Call a taxi"

One day, he woke up late and missed the event organized by the conference to go to a nearby small island for fieldwork. Instead, he decided to wander around the city with his equipment. The pace of the small town in winter slowed down, and there were many cats here. It was common to see fluffy bundles nestled at the doorsteps of houses or on rooftops. They were not startled by the presence of strangers; instead, they lazily lifted their heads to glance at you before nonchalantly lying back down to continue dreaming, undisturbed by each other. Xie Minglang was not particularly fond of animals, but suddenly seeing a cat whose expression resembled Yan Cai's made him burst into laughter. He quickly captured that moment, and when he looked at the image on the LCD screen, he couldn't help but laugh even more. The pace of the small town in winter slowed down, and there were many cats here. It was common to see fluffy bundles nestled at the doorsteps of houses or on rooftops. They were not startled by the presence of strangers; instead, they lazily lifted their heads to glance at you before nonchalantly lying back down to continue dreaming, undisturbed by each other. Xie Minglang was not particularly fond of animals, but suddenly seeing a cat whose expression resembled Yan Cai's made him burst into laughter. He quickly captured that moment, and when he looked at the image on the LCD screen, he couldn't help but laugh even more.

I went back last year, but this year I will be on duty on the fourth day of the new year, so I will not be going back.

Xie Minglang's self-deprecating remark "becoming a tuberculosis patient after drinking" was once again validated; his words became more abundant, yet his mind gradually dulled. He chatted merrily with Wei Ke, almost forgetting the third person at the table

Xie Minglang glanced at the watch and continued, "She will come over for dinner at 7 o'clock, so there are only a few minutes left. When you see her, we can talk again."

Goodbye. Ji Zhanming was momentarily stunned, the haze in his eyes dissipating somewhat, and he clearly uttered these words

Xie Minglang smiled to himself, thinking, after all these years, how could it still hurt

Xie Minglang, while dodging, laughed and said: "What can I do if you don't believe me? Be gentle, don't hit my arm."

Later, as Wei casually remarked, "How did you recognize each other?" Ji Zhanming, who had been a listener until then, also joined this aimless conversation. He pointed at Xie Minglang and said, "He is my junior, one grade below me."

Xie Minglang aimlessly flipped through a few pages, suddenly raised his head, sighed, and said seriously: "I cannot hide it from you. In fact, I and Yawei ... ... " At this point, he stopped perfectly, revealing an expression of infinite distress.

Wei Ke, with his keen eyes, had already spotted Xie Minglang. As the photographer finished the last shot, he immediately smiled in Xie Minglang's direction. Previously, Xie Minglang had encountered him several times at other events, each time being pulled into a corner for drinks and casual chats, so they were already quite familiar with each other. Xie Minglang couldn't help but smile as well. Taking advantage of the moment when the staff were assisting the photographer in adjusting the angle of the reflector, Wei Ke simply brushed off the makeup artist who was about to touch up his makeup and walked over to Xie Minglang, saying, "Xie Minglang, what a coincidence to see you here!"

In the dead of winter, the lake district is unbearably cold, and it rains intermittently. We waited for several days in the nearest village until the weather forecast finally indicated that the next day would be clear. We got up at four in the morning, and with no proper path, we followed the small trail made by fishermen to the lakeside. The journey was slippery, and both of us fell several times, losing one flashlight along the way. At one point, he nearly stepped into what might have been a marshy area, and after pulling him out, we were both terrified. It took us over an hour to reach the lakeside, and it was quite challenging to find the grass hut we had set up earlier in the dark.

Isn't it spending money to send you on a trip

It does seem to be the case. However, this is also good, as I quite enjoy the feeling of auditioning

Wei laughed heartily and filled the cup again: "Then let us toast to the unchangeable nature of our being"

Xie Minglang feigned ignorance: "Are there any other films for which you need to audition?"

What Yan Cai said made it seem as if Xie Minglang's inquiry was quite rare. Upon hearing this, Xie Minglang merely smiled and replied, "It's quite normal. However, I recall that it was usually the production team that brought the script to discuss with you, so I was just a bit surprised."

At this moment, Xie Minglang fell completely silent, the curve of his lips fixed in place, listening to Ji Zhanning, who, fueled by alcohol, animatedly recounted stories to Wei Ke. Ji Zhanning was exceptionally focused when speaking of the past, seemingly forgetting that Xie Minglang was sitting at the same table, not even glancing in his direction. In the end, he let out a slight sigh: "At that time, the equipment wasn't good enough; looking back at the photos we took, the only thing worth noting is the passion."

However, it is rare today; his wife actually did not call, otherwise there would have been another story to watch. Wei chuckled and said, "Mrs. Ji is truly a very interesting person"

Oh, no wonder. We only arrived yesterday," Wei Ke pointed to the crowd, "and they have already started working tirelessly.

He saw a group of people on the beach from a distance, equipped with complete gear, clearly a professional filming crew. Xie Minglang took a few steps closer and realized they were shooting outdoor scenes with a model, so he did not approach any further and decided to go around them to the other side of the beach

Suddenly, Pan Feifei's eyes lit up as she sat up straight, pulling on Xie Minglang's sleeve and saying: "Minglang, you are still the best."

As a result, the conversation gradually shifted to Xie Minglang and Ji Zhanning. Ji Zhanning, having consumed the most alcohol, was already about fifty to sixty percent drunk. Eventually, he inexplicably began to talk about the time when he and Xie Minglang went to the migratory bird sanctuary to take photographs during winter while they were studying.

Wei Ke couldn't help but laugh: "Lao Ji, so it turns out that back in the day, you were so dedicated to art that you were willing to make such sacrifices"

Yancai only smiled: "I cannot make the decision."

As siblings, you should remember this bond; you must not harm me

Xie Minglang had long known that eight or nine out of ten of Pan Feifei's gifts were related to Yan Cai, yet he still agreed and the next day booked her a tour to a small island in the south. On the day of her departure, Xie Minglang went to see her off, and in the large bag he handed over, besides various snacks, the set of dishes she wanted was placed on top.

Having sent off his sister, who was filled with joy and satisfaction, Xie Minglang finally returned to his normal routine

Xie Minglang hailed a taxi, and on the way back, he recalled that day when they had returned exhausted from the lakeside in the evening. Both of them were covered in mud, feeling cold and utterly disheveled. On his way back, he tripped over some grass roots and fell again, hitting a rock, which left his knee scraped and his ankle sprained. It was still Ji Zhanming who dragged and supported him back, lamenting that he simply could not carry him. The two of them tried their best to muster their spirits and tell jokes along the way, but when they finally reached their lodging, they collapsed on the ground, unable to utter a word. He had tripped over the grass roots and fallen again, hitting a rock, scraping his knee and spraining his ankle, with Ji Zhanming dragging and supporting him back, only wishing he could carry him. They both tried hard to cheer each other up with jokes, but when they arrived at their lodging, they collapsed on the ground, speechless. After an unknown amount of time, Xie Minglang felt some sensation return to his limbs and struggled to check his wounds, but Ji Zhanming was quicker. His hand gently pressed on Xie Minglang's ankle, which would later swell for several months, but at that moment, there were no signs of swelling; it just hurt like a cramp when pressure was applied. At that time, Ji Zhanming asked something that seemed to echo that sentiment.

During that period, Yan Cai was busy with the post-production sound recording of a film and some promotional activities, and the two of them almost only communicated via phone. Therefore, the news about Yan Cai actively vying for a certain film role reached Xie Minglang through others. He was curious about what kind of film it was that Yan Cai was so eager to pursue personally, publicly declaring his strong interest in the role and his willingness to audition. Later, when he found the relevant information about the film, his heart sank immediately: it was Shen Wei's posthumous work, the rights of which had been sold at a high price by his widow many years later. At that time, he was still wondering what kind of film it was that Yan Cai was so eager to pursue personally, publicly declaring his strong interest in the role and his willingness to audition. Later, when he found the relevant information about the film, his heart sank immediately: it was Shen Wei's posthumous work, the rights of which had been sold at a high price by his widow many years later. The film company sought out a well-known screenwriter to revise and polish Shen Wei's script, hired a renowned producer and director, and publicly recruited actors for the relevant roles with great fanfare, determined to spare no expense in creating another literary classic.

"It's fine if it's on sale," Pan Feifei said harshly, but her actions gradually came to a halt. She looked at Xie Minglang and said, "It's also my foolishness; even if you like older women, your secret crush should be someone like Meng Yu."

After speaking, she lowered her head to flip through a magazine, ignoring Pan Feifei's incessant questions. The next five minutes felt like sitting on pins and needles for Pan Feifei, as she quickly thought about Xu Yawei's notorious reputation, wondering how many boyfriends she had had and how she was still entangled with Yan Cai. On the other hand, she mentally reviewed Xu Yawei's appearance, date of birth, personality, and preferences, unable to comprehend how Xie Minglang could possibly be involved with her.

If you don't go back, I will have to endure the nagging of two people alone, so let's forget it. My mother always uses you to educate me, and my father always asks about your recent situation. Of course, I will avoid it for as long as I can. I don't have money to travel either.

Pan Feifei instead became more spirited: "Minglang, are you feeling guilty? Speaking of which, I don't know how many times over the past six months I've tried to find you at night, but you were never around... Could it be that you have a girlfriend?"

It seems that upon hearing this name, Ji Zhanming suddenly remembered that Xie Minglang was still around. He sluggishly shifted his gaze, and in his eyes, besides the haze formed by alcohol, there were also traces brought about by those past events, all mixed together and rising up. Xie Minglang looked at Wei Ke and also smiled: "The mountains and rivers may change, but human nature is hard to alter"

Before the female lead was finalized, many suitable actresses put in considerable effort to secure this opportunity. No one expected that in the end, it would be such a "newcomer" with no background and no box office experience who would land the role. When the news broke, journalists and editors from major entertainment publications almost unanimously chose to use Jiang Qi's award photo from two years ago when she won the Best Newcomer award at a drama competition for her character introduction. The reason was simple—there seemed to be no other suitable exposure photos available.

Xie Minglang jokingly said: "At this time, it would be appropriate for you to carry him back."

Xie Minglang could not help but chuckle: "What do you want for the New Year gift?"

"Your dad is my dad, how come my mom is still 'your mom' and 'Aunt Pan'?" Pan Feifei complained. However, it had been this way for many years, and she did not pursue it further. After mumbling, she honestly expressed her desire for a recently released DVD collection of commemorative films, which contained only one disc featuring Yan Cai's performance. According to her, it included a wealth of behind-the-scenes footage, which was extremely precious. However, it had been this way for many years, and she did not pursue it further. After mumbling, she honestly expressed her desire for a recently released DVD collection of commemorative films, which contained only one disc featuring Yan Cai's performance. According to her, it included a wealth of behind-the-scenes footage, which was extremely precious

Even in the sunlight, the seaside in winter carries an undeniable sense of desolation. The waves crash against the towering rocks, splashing white foam. Although the color of the sea is beautiful, the entire coastline lacks good sandy beaches; walking along it is met with only gravel, which is indeed a regrettable flaw in an otherwise beautiful scene.

Faced with such a question, Pan Feifei was at a loss for words and replied in a muffled tone, "I was just speaking casually."

Xie Minglang thought to himself that this was truly a clichéd opening line, and then considered how to make the scene more lively. While he was pondering silently, Ji Zhanming had already nodded in his direction, saying: "I didn't expect to see you here, Minglang"

I will no longer give you gifts, and you are no longer filial

At this moment, Xie Minglang had already put on a smile, waiting for Ji Zhanming to walk over, and then waiting for the unsuspecting Wei Ke to smile and say: "Old Ji, let me introduce someone to you."

Seeing the figure of Ji Zhanming, Xie Minglang was not surprised. He withdrew his gaze and said with a smile, "Since we are all here, let's go out for drinks tonight"

Wei Kecai smiled broadly and responded with a good word, when his assistant hurried over to urge him back to work. As a result, Ji Zhanming inevitably saw Xie Minglang. For Ji Zhanming, the latter's appearance was clearly more surprising, to the extent that after a brief hesitation, he waved his hand and said, "Everyone take a break," before immediately walking towards the two people who were still chatting and laughing a little further away from the sea.

How will you thank me

Clear

However, the details of this matter were completely unclear to Xie Minglang. He did not bring work home, at least not while Xie Minglang was present, and he was quite happy not to inquire further. Later, when he attended the photography annual conference and traveled south with a group of colleagues, he completely put this matter out of his mind.

However, no matter what, Wei was unwilling to go back, pointing at the full moon in the sky and saying: "With the clear breeze and bright moon, can you bear to go inside? Drink a few more cups and it won't be cold."

He called the waiter to bring some spirits. Once the drinks arrived, without further ado, he pulled Xie Minglang and Ji Zhanning, who had also come out, to drink several rounds. Drinking strong liquor in the cold wind was indeed a novel experience. After several rounds, Xie Minglang already felt the warmth rising; it was indeed no longer cold.

Xie Minglang found it amusing and shook his head, saying: "You are really hard to please. You said you wanted to travel, so I used my bonus to send you on a trip, and yet you still have so much to say. Next time, don't be so troublesome."

He was humble, yet shortly after, the audition results were announced, and he rightfully secured the leading role. A few weeks later, the choice for the female lead was also finalized: she was a graduate of a drama academy, young, without any film or television works, but already a rising star on the theatrical stage.

Regardless of how one might define the interesting things he mentioned, Xie Minglang thought of another matter and, emboldened by the effects of alcohol, straightforwardly asked: "Are you very familiar with Ji Zhanming?"

So that's how it is. Xie Minglang casually replied, "So he is your mentor."

As soon as Xie Minglang stood up, he immediately felt lightheaded, realizing that he had drunk too much. He propped himself against the table but managed to steady himself; Wei Ke, on the other hand, appeared just as usual, except for a slight flush on his face. The most serious case was Ji Zhanming; his complexion looked quite normal, but as soon as he stood up, he promptly sat back down again

Xie Minglang smiled and said, "You are clever and quick-witted, one is worth two. This year, I will trouble you again."

Xie Minglang laughed, an action that momentarily roused Ji Zhanming, who had almost lost all sense, to a brief state of awareness. In a dazed and indistinct manner, he quietly asked, "Does your joint still hurt?"

Xie Minglang knew he had something to say, but after waiting for a while, he still did not hear any sound. He also realized that Ji Zhanming was indeed too drunk, so he decided not to wait any longer and turned to Wei Ke, saying: "Then that's it, I will go back."

In order to capture a sunset shot, Xie Minglang arrived at the agreed-upon bar slightly later than scheduled. Although the lighting in the bar was dim and hazy, Xie Minglang effortlessly found Wei Ke. He walked straight towards Wei Ke, who was surrounded by a lively crowd, with both men and women attempting to strike up conversations, creating a vibrant and colorful scene. In contrast, the figure beside him, who hardly lifted their head except to place an order, appeared so dull that they seemed almost like a shadow.

This year's annual meeting is being held here. I have been here for a week already

Xie Minglang couldn't help but chuckle wryly: "Why does it seem to be getting more intense the more we talk? If Sister Meng knew you were saying this about her, forget about any signed photos or anything like that in the future"

"This time, I'm really drunk to death." Wei Ke shook his head, "Lao Ji, let me help you."

Wei Ke also heard this sentence, and her gaze immediately swept to Xie Minglang, but she remained silent. Xie Minglang pressed his lips together, not making a sound, and silently walked to the hotel entrance, where he returned Ji Zhanning to Wei Ke. After all this commotion, Ji Zhanning finally managed to regain some awareness, struggling to lift his head, his gaze unfocused as he looked at Xie Minglang, yet he could not utter a word

Understanding that she had been tricked, Pan Feifei's brows furrowed in anger. She rushed over and delivered a series of heavy blows to the laughing Xie Minglang, saying, "I never doubted you. How could you deceive me like this?"

The sound of the tide is quite loud, and the people at work must communicate with each other in raised voices. These sounds are carried to Xie Minglang's ears by the wind, to varying degrees. After hearing several familiar voices, Xie Minglang still halted his forward steps and turned to approach the owners of the voices.

Then it is only I who will enjoy your favor

Wei could not help but smile, pointing at Ji Zhanming and saying: "In any case, he won't be coming back starting tomorrow, and I have achieved my goal."

Xie Minglang thought of the scene where his father and stepmother surrounded Pan Feifei, singing both the red and white faces, and he understood why she did not want to stay at home for too long. He heard the last sentence, and without much thought, he said: "How about this, where do you want to go? I will help you book a tour group and also call your family for you"

"You have watched too many romantic films, filled with all sorts of bizarre plots," Xie Minglang said casually as he reached for the magazine placed at the other end of the sofa.

After Xie Minglang learned about this matter, he and Yan Cai exchanged a few phone calls, but neither of them brought it up. It was not until some time later when they gathered again that Xie Minglang noticed he had started to grow his hair out, and jokingly asked, "How long has it been since we last met? Why are you growing your hair? Is it warmer in winter?"

The name of the seasonal exhibition weighed heavily on his shoulders, each step felt like a drag. Xie Minglang had not walked for long before he began to sweat, only to be immediately pushed back by the wind. Wei Keshou stood by and said, "I haven't seen Old Ji drink like this in a long time"

Xie Minglang was surrounded by the smell of alcohol, and he could no longer distinguish whether it was from himself or from Ji Zhanming. Upon hearing this, Xie Minglang said: "Is that so? I have never seen him drink before"

The production team is certainly enthusiastic in their praise for Jiang Qi's portrayal of this character, yet fans from various factions have their own opinions. However, all this chatter merely serves to amplify the promotional momentum of the film. The selection of other characters is still being conducted with great fanfare, with news emerging daily, creating a lively presence in the entertainment section.

Due to this small incident, Xie Minglang maintained a very good mood for the next few hours. He wandered through the streets and alleys, and finally arrived at the seaside.

Why do I feel increasingly guilty the more I listen?

Pan Feifei shot him a sideways glance: "If she finds out, I will strangle you. However, Minglang, if you really have a girlfriend that you want to bring home, let me meet her first to ensure that Mom and Dad will be satisfied."

After all, it is winter. No matter how warm the daytime breeze may be, once the night wind blows, it still becomes quite cold. Xie Minglang had already been exposed to the sea breeze for an entire afternoon, and after sitting for a while, he could no longer tolerate it and suggested going back. Wei Ke, however, firmly refused, saying that the place inside was hardly a bar; it was simply a den of iniquity. Xie Minglang laughed heartily, "When have you ever been afraid of such a scene?"

Xie Minglang said little, walked behind Wei Ke, and patted him on the back to greet him. Wei Ke saw his eyes shining, stood up, and handed him the wine glass in his hand: "Come on, if you are not afraid of the cold, let's go outside to drink"

After speaking, the two had nothing more to say and fell into silence. This atmosphere was clearly not right; not to mention Xie Minglang and Ji Zhanning, even Wei Ke, as an outsider, sensed it. However, none of them allowed the silence to last too long, and it ended with Ji Zhanning's withdrawal. At this point, the atmosphere improved slightly, and Wei Ke further arranged the time and place for an evening meeting with Xie Minglang, after which they bid each other farewell and went about their respective business.

After the winter vacation began, she did not go home directly, but instead dragged a suitcase to Xie Minglang's apartment to stay for a while. She did not inform him in advance, which caught Xie Minglang a bit off guard, and he could not say anything. After letting her stay without making a fuss, he took care of her for a few days before daring to ask: "Why don't you go home?"

The first to detect a hint of abnormality in Xie Minglang was Pan Feifei

Pan Feifei's expression changed dramatically, and she immediately slid down from her chair, rushing over to grab Xie Minglang's sleeve: "How could it be Xu Yawei? I knew there was something suspicious about those photos!"

I am not well, and I have been unconditionally indulging various unreasonable demands. Your mother knows that even I have been scolded along with you

They drank until 11 PM. Xie Minglang looked at his watch and said, "I will be going back tomorrow, so let's stop drinking here for today"

Wei Ke has really gotten into it: "How about we give it a try? You take another picture, and when he wakes up, I'll post it outside his studio. This scene is sure to be spectacular"

Years ago, I was working in a bar when he suddenly approached me and asked if I wanted to be a model. Such a scenario seemed like something only encountered in old soap operas, and I didn't take it seriously at all. I had long since discarded the business card he left behind, never knowing if it was genuine. Eventually, that was how it went; I entered the industry, had many opportunities for collaboration, and after all, I owed him this favor. Gradually, we became more familiar with each other

The venue for the annual meeting is a sunny seaside town. Although it is mid-winter, wearing a light jacket here, perhaps with an additional thin sweater, can lead to sweating by noon. This group of people has gathered, ostensibly for the annual meeting, but in reality, it is more about meeting friends, expanding social networks, and sharing insights on their creative endeavors. During these days, Xie Minglang has made new friends, engaged in conversations with peers, and has always found common ground in their discussions. With no pressure at all, these days feel like a complete vacation.

Then if I do not fulfill my filial duty to you, you should still send me on a trip