Chapter 247 Quick Action is Essential

However, because she frequently went to meet with Lu Yanhe, which was witnessed by many people, Xu Mingyue caused some controversy in the academy.

Some unpleasant comments started circulating.

The discussion mainly focused on whether Xu Mingyue had fallen for Lu Yanhe and wanted to win him over.

By the time this news reached Helan's ears, it had already passed through many people's mouths and ears.

Upon hearing this, He Lan was shocked and helped explain, "That's not how it is. It's because Mingyue is interning at Jiangyin Publishing House and is in charge of coordinating with Lu Yanhe's book 'Jump Up,' so she often goes to see him. It's all work-related, so don't make things up."

Helan's explanation was quickly spread by others.

Xu Mingyue was already a girl who received a lot of attention in the college.

She is beautiful and academically excellent. She started her internship at Jiangyin Publishing House in her sophomore year and was also quite active in various school activities. Such a girl is bound to attract jealousy. As soon as this news came out, some people immediately expressed disbelief and even fabricated some "past" stories about Xu Mingyue.

That evening, Jiang Linxian brought up the matter hesitantly.

"Mingyue, are you really pursuing Lu Yanhe?"

Xu Mingyue was so shocked she almost fell off the stool.

"What?"

Jiang Linxian said, "Everyone's saying that you go to see Lu Yanhe every few days."

"Who's spreading rumors!" Xu Mingyue was furious, her face full of anger.

Seeing Xu Mingyue's expression, Jiang Linxian knew that this was most likely a rumor.

"You scared me! I thought you really had fallen for Lu Yanhe." Jiang Linxian said, then looked at He Lan, "What about you?"

"Don't talk nonsense, I'm just a fan's love for my idol," Helan said immediately.

Jiang Linxian: "I really didn't expect that Lu Yanhe would come to our Zhenhua School and become our junior."

He Lan: "What's so strange about that? He said he wanted to take the entrance exam for Zhenhua University a year ago during his live stream."

Jiang Linxian glanced at her silently and said, "Who would have believed it back then?"

“I believe it,” Helan said with great certainty. “I have always believed it.”

Jiang Linxian: "..."

She subconsciously wanted to say that this was hindsight, but when she thought about how Helan had become a fan of Lu Yanhe as if under a spell over the past year, she couldn't bring herself to say the words "hindsight" and had to give up.

"What about you, Xu Mingyue? There are so many rumors circulating." Jiang Linxian's face showed a hint of worry for Xu Mingyue. "Now everyone thinks you're pursuing Lu Yanhe."

Helan said, "I've already explained it all."

"What's the point of your explanation? Who cares what you said?" Jiang Linxian said bluntly.

He Lan glared angrily at Jiang Linxian, but knew that Jiang Linxian was just like that, and there was no point in getting angry with her, so she held back.

Xu Mingyue herself was still furious.

No girl wants to hear such fabricated rumors about herself.

Jiang Linxian suddenly thought of something, frowned, and asked, "Could it be that Lu Yanhe told others that you're pursuing him? A lot of guys do that nowadays, just to make themselves seem more desirable, they deliberately say that someone is showing interest in them."

“Lu Yanhe is not that kind of person.” To Jiang Linxian’s surprise, it wasn’t He Lan who said this, but Xu Mingyue who said it first.

Of course, Helan immediately added angrily, "Exactly!"

-

Lu Yanhe heard the news from his counselor, Chen Shiqiu.

"Of course not!" Lu Yanhe exclaimed in surprise, and immediately explained, "Sister Mingyue only sees me often because we are working together on the book 'Jump Up'."

Chen Shiqiu understood, nodded, and said, "No wonder, I see. I understand now."

Lu Yanhe was extremely embarrassed.

Chen Shiqiu said, "It's alright, don't worry about it. We'll handle this. Your identity is attracting a lot of attention, so it's understandable that such rumors are circulating. You should be prepared that anyone who gets close to you will be suspected."

Lu Yanhe was speechless. "So, I'll never talk to girls again?"

“Then they’ll suspect you’re gay.” Chen Shiqiu’s lips curled into a slight smile.

Lu Yanhe's lips twitched slightly.

Seeing Lu Yanhe's expression, Chen Shiqiu laughed twice and said, "Don't worry, people can say whatever they want. Do you think you can change yourself because of what they say? What I mean is, be prepared, do what you need to do, and don't let it affect you."

"Understood, thank you, Teacher Chen," Lu Yanhe said.

Chen Shiqiu asked, "How are you adapting to university life?"

"It's fine," Lu Yanhe replied with a smile. "Everyone is doing well."

Chen Shiqiu nodded. "Your agent has contacted me and also informed the department. If you can't go back to your dorm at night due to work and have to stay outside, just remember to let me know so I can make a record."

"Okay, thank you for your help."

"Don't be so polite. You keep calling me Teacher Chen and 'you.' I'm not that much older than you. My students from another grade call me Brother Qiu, so you can call me Brother Qiu too," Chen Shiqiu said.

Lu Yanhe immediately called out "Brother Qiu".

Chen Shiqiu has only been a counselor for two years and is 26 years old this year.

Chen Shiqiu said, "Why don't you perform a piece at the college's welcome party this year?"

Lu Yanhe nodded happily and said okay.

-

Lu Yanhe was initially quite worried that people would treat him differently because of his celebrity status. But fortunately, Zhenhua is Zhenhua; although people were somewhat curious about him, they didn't offer him any special treatment.

Whether it was faculty or students, they all communicated with him in a normal and respectful manner.

Although Lu Yanhe was very tired during military training, he was also very happy.

This group training method allows strangers to gradually get to know each other. Although the repetitive singing contests, talent shows, and training sessions are formulaic, they are also very effective.

Lu Yanhe was inevitably called out to perform several times, and even other battalions invited him to perform.

Before Lu Yanhe could even speak, he was rejected by his instructor.

"Go away, go away! You think you can borrow our people? Don't even think about it. We're too busy performing for ourselves to have time to perform for you."

The military training ended in these bittersweet days.

On the night the military training ended, the whole class had a dinner party and invited the instructors.

Lu Yanhe was surprised to find that a third of his classmates were heavy drinkers, and they all went straight for baijiu (Chinese liquor).

Lu Yanhe was surprised and asked out of curiosity that many people had drunk a little alcohol with their parents at home and were already used to it, while others had secretly developed their alcohol tolerance on their own.

The instructors were toasted by everyone in turn, and by the end their faces were flushed.

"No, you can't drink anymore." The instructor kept waving his hands and said, "I'm very happy to be your instructor and spend these ten days with you, but I really can't drink alcohol."

That's when everyone gave up.

"Serves you right for scolding us so harshly!" A girl raised her chin and snorted. "I've gotten eight shades darker!"

Everyone burst into laughter.

After eating and drinking, everyone gathered in small groups to chat.

Lu Yanhe and Zhou Mukai were roommates, so they were closer.

They sat together, and Zhou Mukai still didn't say much. Most of the time, he just looked down at his phone and chatted with someone.

Lu Yanhe didn't even need to ask to know that she was his girlfriend.

"Lu Yanhe—" Suddenly, a girl with bright eyes walked up to him.

It was his classmate, Ji Qianxing.

Lu Yanhe looked at Ji Qianxing in surprise.

Ji Qianxing asked, "Can I ask you a question?"

"Yes, please go ahead." Lu Yanhe nodded.

Ji Qianxing asked, "Do you have a girlfriend? Are you single?"

Lu Yanhe stared in shock.

The surrounding classmates also looked over with expressions of amusement and surprise.

"Ji Qianxing, what do you mean by asking Lu Yanhe this question? You don't mean you want to confess your feelings to Lu Yanhe, do you?" Zhou Qingcheng asked from the next table.

Ji Qianxing said very calmly, "What? It's not allowed?"

Her cheeks were flushed from being drunk.

Lu Yanhe was taken aback, then raised the corners of his mouth and said with a smile, "Okay, I know, did you lose a bet with someone and are playing truth or dare with me?"

Ji Qianxing was taken aback. "Huh?"

Lu Yanhe said, "Don't joke with me like that, everyone. Otherwise, if the paparazzi find out, it'll be terrible."

Zhou Qingcheng pointed at Lu Yanhe and said, "What should we say if reporters come to ask us?"

“It’s best not to say anything at all. Please, everyone, no matter what you say, they may not report it exactly as you say it. Most of the time they will take it out of context or exaggerate it.” Lu Yanhe said with a smile, “I finally got into Zhenhua University and just want to study quietly for four years. I don’t want to be chased by paparazzi.”

Zhou Qingcheng cupped his hands in a gesture of respect to Lu Yanhe, saying, "Don't worry, we'll protect you well!"

Lu Yanhe also cupped his hands in thanks.

Turning around, Lu Yanhe found Ji Qianxing still standing in front of him.

Lu Yanhe was at a loss for words.

He didn't know if Ji Qianxing had understood what he meant.

When Ji Qianxing saw Lu Yanhe's gaze return to her, she gave him a deep look, smiled, and said, "Okay, then I won't ask next time."

After saying this, Ji Qianxing turned and left, returning to her own table.

Looking at Ji Qianxing's retreating figure, Lu Yanhe felt inexplicably embarrassed.

-

Once military training ends, it will be the weekend, and after that, classes will begin.

The first year of university is very demanding, with eight required courses, but it's still much better than the packed schedule of high school.

Lu Yanhe thought about it and decided that it would be good to complete more credits as soon as possible, so that he would have more time in his junior and senior years.

So, based on his class schedule, Lu Yanhe filled in several gaps in his schedule.

He couldn't get into several courses he really wanted, so he had no choice but to give up and choose the ones he could first.

After the class schedule was finalized, Lu Yanhe sent it to Chen Ziyan.

According to the principle he and Chen Ziyan set, everything should be focused on their studies, and work should not interfere with their studies as much as possible.

Chen Ziyan got Lu Yanhe's class schedule so she could help him with his work.

In fact, Chen Ziyan would no longer give him work from Monday to Friday, at most on weekends.

Filming is even more out of the question.

Although Lu Yanhe was a little disappointed, his career as an artist had just begun to improve, and this was the time when he had the most opportunities. He was getting work offers every day. Chen Ziyan said that he was in high demand and very popular with his collaborators. If it weren't for Chen Ziyan's intention to control his exposure and her very high standards for work quality, Lu Yanhe could have taken on a lot of work during this period and made a quick buck.

Now, because of school, I might not be able to get a job even once a month.

But there's nothing we can do about it.

Lu Yanhe himself also wanted to finish his studies at school.

From September 21st to 25th, we were going to record "The Days of Youth". Fortunately, it was to be recorded in Yuming. After negotiation, Lu Yanhe would attend classes during class time and return to the production team to participate in the recording during non-class time. He would work to earn money and record on weekends.

In addition to "The Days of Youth", there is also "City Travelogue". Xin Zixing and Lu Yanhe made an appointment to record the third episode in mid-October.

Actually, the workload hasn't decreased.

Chen Ziyan said, "You are really busy. You have to record 'The Days of Youth' and 'City Travelogue', which is basically recorded once a month. This month, 'Jump Up' will be released and has already started pre-sale promotion."

“These are all jobs I’ve taken on before, and I need to keep working hard,” Lu Yanhe said. “Now I feel fortunate that I still have the job of ‘City Travelogue’, which allows me to maintain my public profile while I’m still in school.”

The show "City Travelogue" took great care of Lu Yanhe; the program was made around him, and the recording schedule was very accommodating to him.

In contrast, the recording schedule for "The Days of Youth" was set long ago, and he was required to cooperate.

Chen Ziyan said, "The recording of 'The Days of Youth' will be completed in October, and then there will be much more time."

"Hmm," Lu Yanhe said. "By the way, Sister Ziyan, when has the filming for 'Phoenix Terrace' been finalized?"

"Not yet, I forgot to tell you. We need to find some time to do a makeup trial," Chen Ziyan said. "Director Chen said he wants to see the results of your current workout."

Lu Yanhe agreed.

"But I've gotten a lot tanned now, will Director Chen be satisfied?"

“It’s good to be a little tanned. Didn’t Director Chen say that she wants you to be more robust and fit?” Chen Ziyan said. “You look much more energetic than before, like someone who exercises regularly.”

Lu Yanhe smiled.

"Fortunately, it was still effective."

Chen Ziyan then asked, "How are your relationships with your roommates?"

"It's all good, everyone is doing well," Lu Yanhe said.

Chen Ziyan said, "That's good. You should still be careful in the dorm. It's not that you have to be wary of others, or that there must be bad people among them, but your status is different after all, and it's a dorm. If someone catches you doing something wrong and posts it online or threatens you, it will be very difficult to deal with."

Lu Yanhe said, "Understood, Sister Ziyan, I will be careful."

He didn't naively say that he believed his roommate wasn't that kind of person.

He understood what Chen Ziyan meant.

Treat others with sincerity, but don't act impulsively and believe everything they say.

-

In fact, Lu Yanhe's life has been exceptionally fulfilling since the first day after the military training ended.

"Jump Up" requires the recording of some promotional materials, including videos and interviews.

Xin Zixing and Xu Xiaoyin personally brought a photography team to take the photos.

They found a coffee shop near Zhenhua and negotiated with the owner for a time period when the shop was not open to the public. They had Lu Yanhe sit in the coffee shop and record a lot of videos, which were to be used by different e-commerce channels and large bookstores.

After recording these, he will record an introduction to the book, his thought process on why he wrote such a book, and so on.

After recording at the coffee shop, we still had to record a simple Q&A session with Li Zhibai, Song Linxin, and Yan Liang.

These are all publicity plans proposed by Xin Zixing.

Xu Xiaoyin repeatedly exclaimed, "You guys in online media really know how to do it all."

“These promotional methods all rely on Lu Yanhe’s connections. If these people weren’t his friends, why would they come to record this?” Xin Zixing put on a very proper attitude, saying, “If it weren’t for Lu Yanhe, the market price for hiring an artist to do promotion and record a VCR would usually start at tens of thousands.”

Xu Xiaoyin nodded, "Yes, we'll collaborate with online book bloggers for promotion, and their prices aren't low."

"The biggest selling point of 'Jump Up' before its release is Lu Yanhe. After the release, we will gradually promote the content," Xin Zixing said. "You are responsible for the physical publishing, and we are responsible for the electronic publishing. Working together to build this IP and make it bigger will be very beneficial for both of us."

Lu Yanhe spent the entire weekend preparing for the promotion of "Jump Up," and later worked with several e-commerce channels to prepare various promotional materials.

After everything was done, Lu Yanhe breathed a sigh of relief.

He has done everything he could and is now just waiting for the book to be officially released.

On the day of the IPO, they'll post an ad on their social media, mention it briefly in their live stream, and that's it.

On September 19th, the physical book of "Jump Up" officially went on pre-sale.

On Yemai.com, the physical book of "Jump Up" is priced at 32 yuan, while the e-book is priced at one-third of that, at 10.7 yuan.

"Jump Up" will be available on YeMai.com on September 25th. According to the previous agreement, the ebook will be free to read for the first three days, after which it will become a paid service on the official release date of the physical book.

To date, "Jump Up" has received over 10,000 reservations on YeMai.com.

Just then, Chen Shiqiu suddenly approached Lu Yanhe and said, "A youth association at our school asked me to ask you if you want to hold a promotional event for 'Jump Up' at their venue?"

"Huh?" Lu Yanhe was taken aback.

Chen Shiqiu explained, “Our school’s Youth Association is a student organization open to all students. It often invites experts from various fields to give speeches and organizes many commentary events. As a student of our school, you have also edited such a book, which has attracted a lot of attention. They would like to invite you to do a sharing event.”

Lu Yanhe hadn't expected to receive such an invitation.

But this is also a great publicity channel. The only thing to hesitate about is that he'll be very busy in the coming period and it will be difficult for him to find the time before finishing recording "The Days of Youth".

"Teacher Chen, I would certainly like to do such an activity, but I basically don't have time after that. I have two programs to record, and I won't be available until after the National Day holiday."

“It’s alright. If you’d like, I’ll talk to them and have their manager contact you directly to confirm the time,” Chen Shiqiu said. “Time isn’t an issue; we’ll definitely accommodate your schedule.”

"Okay, then have them contact me."

After telling Chen Shiqiu about this, Lu Yanhe prepared to return to his dormitory.

Halfway there, Xiao Jing asked in the group chat, "Is there any older brother who can bring me back lunch?"

Lu Yanhe then realized that it was already 11:30.

He replied, "I'll bring it for you. What do you want to eat?"

Xiao Jing: "I'm not picky, anything is fine."

Lu Yanhe went to the nearest canteen.

At this time, there are already queues at the cafeteria.

As soon as Lu Yanhe appeared, he was recognized by many people. Some even secretly took out their phones to take pictures. In such a crowded place, Lu Yanhe still attracted a lot of attention.

He ended up in line behind a fried chicken rice window.

After observing the various cafeterias at the school over the past few days, I've found that windows offering only a single option generally have the fastest queue speeds.

Sure enough, it was his turn in no time. He ordered two servings of fried chicken rice.

Fried chicken rice is simply rice topped with fried chicken pieces and vegetables.

Immediately, someone posted a photo of Lu Yanhe queuing for food on the school's internal forum.

There was a lot of discussion about him. Lu Yanhe was one of the most popular freshmen this year, and everyone agreed that he was good-looking. The girls praised him for being handsome.

Then a few people became dissatisfied and said some unpleasant things.

The gist of it was that people shouldn't be so infatuated with Lu Yanhe just because he's a celebrity and handsome. Many male celebrities in the entertainment industry have been exposed for "selecting concubines" scandals, and Lu Yanhe may not be as good as he appears. Then, the conversation turned to Lu Yanhe having dinner with two girls before.

This post has sparked a lot of debate.

Some spoke up for Lu Yanhe, while others agreed with those who questioned him.

There's also a group of people who say these doubters are boring.

The school's internal forum is a gathering place for students to chat and post casually. Many students are active here every day, and any big news or gossip from the school will appear on this forum as soon as possible.

The controversy surrounding Lu Yanhe quickly reached Lu Yanhe's ears.

It was Xiao Jing who said it.

"Yan He, you're really popular! There's a huge fuss about you on the school forum," Xiao Jing said.

Lu Yanhe was somewhat surprised and asked what was wrong.

Xiao Jing sent the link to the post about him on the school forum.

"See?" Xiao Jing said after sending the message. "Some people are just bored out of their minds. They're just jealous that you're popular with girls, so they're making sarcastic and insinuating remarks about you. I don't know what kind of people they are."

Lu Yanhe opened the post and sighed.

If he could, he really wouldn't want to appear in this kind of post and be discussed in this way.

"well."

"Are you alright?" Xiao Jing asked when he heard Lu Yanhe sigh.

"It's nothing." Lu Yanhe shook his head.

Xiao Jing: "Don't take their words too seriously. They're just sour grapes."

Lu Yanhe smiled and nodded.

I have class at 2:30 pm.

Lu Yanhe packed his schoolbag and went to the classroom early, intending to read for a while before class.

Xiao Jing was also eager to go out and asked Lu Yanhe where he was going.

Lu Yanhe said he was going to the classroom to read.

Xiao Jing immediately gave Lu Yanhe a thumbs up and said, "Wow, you're so hardworking!"

"where did you go?"

"Me? I have an appointment." Xiao Jing said, then smiled, looking a little smug.

Lu Yanhe probably knew without asking that Xiao Jing had invited a girl.

Xiao Jing is the one in the dorm who most wants to find a girl to date.

He always had a saying: "If we don't act quickly, all the girls in our grade will be snatched up by those single upperclassmen."

(End of this chapter)