CH 54

Translator: Lynn

Following a brief rest at the hotel arranged by the film crew, Jian Jie officially joined the production of “Life of Opera” in the afternoon.

As a newcomer to the set, Jian Jie wasn’t welcomed with any formal ceremony. Filming had already commenced before his arrival. He exchanged greetings with the director and his fellow actors, underwent the usual routine of being handed a script by the assistant director, and proceeded to the makeup and costume departments.

The movie was a substantial production. Despite being in a supporting role, Jian Jie’s character required several different looks, each tailored to specific scenes. Given the modern setting of the film, the makeup and attire weren’t overly intricate. Jian Jie’s naturally good skin only necessitated a light touch of powder. He tried on multiple costumes for the movie, adjusting any ill-fitting ones with the help of the costumer.

Although there was no scene for Jian Jie to film that afternoon, he removed his makeup and still found his way to a quiet corner of the set to review the script and observe his fellow actors’ performances. Even though the director hadn’t made this a requirement and Jian Jie had no intention of transitioning into a professional film actor, he recognized the importance of taking his role seriously. Being an amateur, he needed to absorb as much as possible.

With no personal assistant accompanying Jian Jie on this trip, Long Zichen naturally assumed the role, carrying a sizable bag and trailing behind Jian Jie. He diligently handed items and water whenever needed. As an assistant, he wore a shirt and jeans to blend in, giving him the appearance of a staff member. However, this led others to frequently enlist his help in carrying things, a situation that left Long Zichen somewhat disheartened.

Jian Jie was engrossed in studying the script, and Long Zichen didn’t want to disrupt him. So, he observed the tasks other actors’ assistants carried out and took notes, planning to have everything ready for Jian Jie the next day. The crew here provided a generous spread of fruits, drinks, and snacks, accessible on the set’s sidelines for everyone’s convenience. Long Zichen periodically gathered a box of fruit, slicing it up for Jian Jie to enjoy.

All the scenes filmed that day were indoors, unaffected by external factors, and the day’s shooting plan concluded by six in the evening. Jian Jie had stayed on set throughout. Director Paul, noticing his dedication to observing others’ performances, called him over to discuss the production for a while. He also briefed Jian Jie on the schedule for the following day, encouraging early preparation.

In the evening, the crew ordered Thai cuisine for dinner, yet Long Zichen didn’t particularly favor its strong flavors. Considering Jian Jie’s preference for milder tastes, he decided to take Jian Jie back to the hotel directly. After dropping off their bags, Long Zichen suggested taking Jian Jie to a Western restaurant he’d discovered online. This establishment was reportedly an Italian restaurant run by a Chinese individual, catering to Chinese tastes. Figuring they could start with this somewhat inauthentic eatery if they wanted to try Western cuisine in a foreign country. Li Xiaoqi, on the other hand, pragmatically suggested dining at the hotel, expressing his reluctance to venture out at his age. He humorously added that if Jian Jie and the others could bring back some delicious supper for him, he wouldn’t feel like a light bulb.

Long Zichen’s eyes brimmed with tears as he thanked Li Xiaoqi wholeheartedly, assuring him that dinner was entirely up to him.

May in New York City was already quite warm. Jian Jie changed into a blue and white striped T-shirt and casual pants, following Long Zichen outside. Being less recognized in this unfamiliar environment and with his filming schedule discreet, Jian Jie wasn’t worried about paparazzi.

Newtown, being an international hub, was aglow with bright lights at night, almost resembling daytime. The streets thrived with pedestrians and vehicles, and the myriad advertising lights lining the streets were a captivating burst of colors. Intentionally, Jian Jie and Long Zichen hopped onto a double-decker sightseeing bus, winding through the towering skyscrapers.

Seated together, Long Zichen gazed at the scenery beside Jian Jie, his emotions stirred. “This is the first time we’ve gone out shopping together since you became a star. It’s not easy to do so in China. How about we travel abroad during your summer break?” Long Zichen’s eyes shone with anticipation.

Jian Jie nodded in agreement. “Sure.”

Long Zichen beamed with happiness, already daydreaming about their next shared living arrangement. They say that traveling together is a litmus test for the compatibility of a couple living together. It exposes various flaws over time. However, from Long Zichen’s perspective, Jian Jie was laid-back and adaptable. He saw no hurdles in their coexistence and couldn’t really identify any shortcomings.

At the restaurant, they enjoyed a lavish meal. Aware that Jian Jie couldn’t handle alcohol well, he stuck to non-alcoholic beverages. On the contrary, Long Zichen was quite pleased, downing a few glasses of white wine. Upon returning to their lodging, he made use of the alcohol’s influence to hold onto Jian Jie, unwilling to let go. Despite his alcohol tolerance being higher, he exaggerated it a bit in order to make the most of the moment. Jian Jie believed Long Zichen was genuinely inebriated, guiding him cautiously all the way to prevent him from stumbling. Their proximity and physical closeness on the way back left Long Zichen secretly delighted.

Back in the hotel, noticing Long Zichen’s apparent slumber, Jian Jie, concerned about waking Li Xiaoqi, guided him to his own room. The ploy worked, as Long Zichen lingered on the sofa for a while, fumbling in his pocket for something. Determined to seize the opportunity tonight, he knew he had to treat this seriously.

Having set up the situation with Long Zichen, Jian Jie sent Li Xiaoqi to sample the dessert he had prepared. Upon Li Xiaoqi’s return, Long Zichen feigned just waking up, his expression puzzled as he asked, “What time is it? Did I sleep through the whole night with you?”

“Brother Chen is finally awake, and it’s not even eight o’clock yet,” Jian Jie responded with a chuckle.

Long Zichen simulated surprise, letting out a casual “Oh” before making a move to stand up. Polite in his demeanor, he began to rise, only to abruptly feign weakness and settle back onto the sofa, sighing, “Well, I’m feeling quite sluggish.” He gazed at Jian Jie, seeking pity.

Jian Jie, empathetic as ever, promptly offered, “Brother Chen, you can stay here and rest. Don’t move if you’re still feeling the effects of the drinks. I’ll get you a change of clothes.”

“Thank you for your trouble,” Long Zichen politely replied. The moment Jian Jie left the room, he discarded his pretense and let out a triumphant cheer. Jian Jie hadn’t gone far, but even from a short distance, he heard Long Zichen’s exultant outburst. Knowing that Long Zichen was pleased about spending the night here, Jian Jie couldn’t help but laugh.

When Jian Jie returned, Long Zichen had already activated the stereo, serenading the room with an old love song in a foreign language. The soothing melody created an atmosphere of relaxation. Long Zichen inquired, “Would it be alright if I sing? Will it disturb you if I write something later?”

“It’s fine. I’ll take a shower and read the script before going to bed. I enjoy listening to music and reading,” Jian Jie assured.

“Great, then you go ahead and shower. I’ll follow after you.”

Jian Jie collected his clothes and headed to the bathroom. After a while, the sound of running water echoed through the door, sparking Long Zichen’s anticipation. His excitement trembled within him as he thought about the plan he had meticulously crafted. Yet, apprehension accompanied his excitement.

Once Jian Jie finished bathing, Long Zichen hurried in, closing the door behind him. He started washing himself, despite not needing to, due to the plan he had in mind. His backwashing was especially thorough, driven by the idea that it might lead to what he hoped for. Though he really wanted to be proactive, he figured that Jian Jie might not be comfortable with that approach. Lying back passively might be a safer option. He pretended to wash diligently, considering that since Jian Jie valued cleanliness so much, he might perceive himself as being ‘dirty’ afterward.

Emerging from the shower, Long Zichen found Jian Jie dressed in soft cotton pajamas, leaning against the sofa and engrossed in a script. Her freshly washed hair was slightly unkempt, with a few strands falling haphazardly. Long Zichen found it utterly endearing. With a joyful grin, he grabbed a magazine and perused it half-heartedly. Avoiding any noise that might disturb Jian Jie, he hardly paid attention to the magazine’s contents. His focus remained fixed on Jian Jie, waiting for the right moment to make his move.

An hour passed, and Jian Jie remained immersed in the script. Long Zichen tried various tactics, from offering water to making conversation, yet nothing could divert his attention. Was that stack of paper truly that captivating? Long Zichen pursed his lips, his gaze on Jian Jie devoid of resentment.

Please let me know if there are typos/mistakes in the chapter.

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