Chapter 24 Lanterns

"Shu Ning, I'll be leaving for a while."

After the screen was removed, Fang Yucheng suddenly spoke up: "I'll meet you at the bridge before the lantern parade begins."

Upon hearing his words, Meng Shuning replied without hesitation, "Okay, I'll wait for you."

[It's so sweet how the couple cleared up their misunderstanding!]

Do you even understand the true value of "I'm waiting for you"?

[Your eyes are practically drooling, huh? You really can't bear to leave your wife for even a minute, can you?]

While the comments section was buzzing with playful banter, Fang Yucheng got up and walked away.

He walked in the direction of the temporary shed, and both the other guests in the rest area and the staff thought he was going to the restroom.

However, Fang Yucheng's expression calmed down when the camera couldn't capture his face.

He first used blind spots to bypass several cameras filming the live stream, and finally stopped in front of a shed.

I watched as the staff in charge of the live stream carried all the equipment out, bag after bag.

He stopped at the doorway.

"Knock knock—"

Hearing the knock on the door, Mu Jiu put away his phone and rubbed his temples.

Good news! Today's #MyFavoriteCP# TOP1 is no surprise, Fang Yucheng and Meng Shuning are in first place by a wide margin, and various topics have frequently topped the trending searches throughout the live stream.

The appearance of two top celebrities together in a live broadcast directly attracted the attention of the entire program, making it possible for them to participate in variety show recordings in a low-key manner later.

Bad news... she's also streaming in another live stream on the same webpage.

Although the live stream has now ended.

She didn't intend to compete with those two top celebrities for viewers' attention, but the fact that the sponsor scheduled the live stream around the same time as theirs makes it hard not to suspect that there was an element of competition or an attempt to generate even more buzz.

The live stream lasted less than half an hour, but it was far more mentally taxing than all the filming during the day.

She and Ling Zhao had agreed on their stories beforehand, based on each other's pasts and preferences, but unexpected problems still arose.

Regarding "hatred" for an ex.

Hatred, built up from resentment, disappointment, and jealousy, is often the root cause of breakups, and sometimes it can become a reason for entanglement between partners.

She couldn't just make up some terrible reasons to smear Ling Zhao's image. But since the focus was on "hatred," it would be hard to believe if the reasons were too ordinary.

As a result, the things she could answer were very limited.

Fortunately, her answer seemed to be accepted.

After quickly reviewing his remarks during the live stream and confirming that he hadn't given anything away, Mu Jiu straightened up and composed himself, saying, "The door isn't locked, you can come in."

Because they were about to move to outdoor filming, the indoor live-streaming equipment was being packed up. Coming to find her at this time might mean something urgent had come up with the production team…

With a creak, the door opened, but the appearance of the person in front of it was completely unexpected.

"...Teacher Fang?"

Mu Jiu looked up in surprise: "Why are you here?"

The other person stared at her without saying a word, as if observing something.

After a while, she seemed to breathe a sigh of relief and asked, "Are you angry with me?"

"...?"

Startled by the sudden display of intimacy, Mu Jiu almost frowned.

This style of conversation was used when they worked together on film sets. But to be honest, it had been a long time since "she" had heard that tone of voice.

What action of hers today caused the other party to misunderstand? Did she even have to deliberately try to get closer before speaking?

Mu Jiu quickly searched his memory, and after hesitating for two seconds, he cautiously asked, "I'm sorry, did I bring up your topic today and cause trouble for you and Shu Ning?"

"If I need to explain further..."

"no."

Her topic was quickly interrupted.

Fang Yucheng took a few steps forward, his shadow looming over her.

Although social distancing was not violated, a strong sense of presence could still be felt.

Fang Yucheng: "You don't need to be so careful about avoiding suspicion. I don't care about these things."

Mu Jiu didn't immediately understand the meaning of the other person's words, but in this situation, remaining silent would obviously be impolite.

So she blinked and chimed in, "Oh, oh."

Fang Yucheng: ...

Mu Jiu's gaze, which had been fixed on him, shifted as she caught sight of a figure not far away. She raised her hand as if she had seen a savior: "Director Mo, what brings you here too?"

Upon hearing Mu Jiu's greeting, Fang Yucheng's previously complex and subtle gaze instantly cleared, and after looking at Mo Chuhe at the door, he said, "Director Mo."

Mo Chuhe raised an eyebrow slightly upon hearing this: "Am I not your date tonight?"

"I just watched the live stream and thought back to when we were in the same production team before. I may have caused her some trouble, so I'm just here to apologize."

Fang Yucheng walked to the door: "Now that we've finished discussing business, I should go."

Take care.

Mo Chuhe wasn't sure if she believed his words, but she casually replied, "I won't see you off."

After Fang Yucheng's figure disappeared, Mu Jiu watched as Mo Chuhe turned around. He wondered if it was just his imagination, but the smile on his face seemed to have faded a bit.

Mo Chuhe: "Did I disturb you?"

"No, we didn't talk about anything."

Mo Chuhe dropped her teasing expression: "Is that so? Actually, I came early because I wanted to chat with you casually first."

Want to chat casually?

Is it referring to acting, or topics discussed during variety show recordings?

Sensing the change in atmosphere, Mu Jiu also composed himself and looked at the other person seriously.

After an afternoon of working together, she had gotten a feel for the director's personality. Although he seemed amiable, he was quite assertive when it came to professional matters. Perhaps she should take this opportunity to give him a little warning?

Before Mu Jiu could finish the reading comprehension, she heard a solemn voice coming from the other end.

"Do you prefer Fang Yucheng or Ling Zhao?"

Mu Jiu: ...?

She hesitated before explaining, "Director Mo, colleagues and exes... can't be compared on the same scale, can they?"

The two looked at each other for a while, and Mo Chuhe seemed to realize that she had forgotten something, and slowly explained, "Oh, I skipped a little introduction."

“I’m currently working on a fantasy novel, and I feel you would be perfect for the female lead role.”

He casually dropped a bombshell, yet he didn't seem to think there was anything wrong with starting business negotiations in the middle of filming a dating reality show: "I initially chose Fang Yucheng... but now it seems that if I were to choose you, Ling Zhao would be more suitable as the male lead."

Mu Jiu was stunned for a long time before blinking in disbelief.

In the original novel, Mo Chuhe did mention casting to Meng Shuning in the romance drama, but that was near the end of the series.

But for such a pie to fall into the lap of a cannon fodder female supporting character was completely beyond Mu Jiu's imagination.

She paused for a few seconds before hesitantly saying, "I'm very surprised that Director Mo chose me."

Mo Chuhe deeply agreed: "Me too."

——

The moonlight is like water, and the water is like wine. Being there, one can easily become intoxicated by the beauty of the town.

What illuminates the night is the endless river of lights that meanders along the river like a galaxy fallen to earth, clusters of dim, swaying light passing through the tranquil ancient town.

Countless lanterns of various shapes float on the water, reflecting off the lanterns hanging under the eaves, making the whole street look like a fairyland.

But the lively chatter and children's laughter along the way brought people back to reality, making them truly feel that this warm world was even better than paradise.

I'm totally sold on this! This lantern festival is absolutely gorgeous, I definitely want to come next year!

[I never thought I'd see Meng Xiangcheng and Zhen making a wish together in my lifetime, sob sob sob]

The way Wan'er lowered the lantern by herself reminded me of the Purple Butterfly Fairy who had lost all love after being heartbroken. Life, please be kinder to this beautiful woman and don't let her suffer like this again.

[In a secluded corner, where no one was watching, Fufu and Deng Minzhou were strolling around with lanterns?!]

[Count me in, I've been struggling to find a group to vent to. Fufu really wasn't lying to us, she really only likes handsome guys who are 1.9 meters tall and have good figures.]

[I feel like at least two couples will get back together before the show ends]

I think there's more to it than that; I believe even Chaomu can save them. /Cool

[Upstairs, please take off your sunglasses]

Mu Jiu stood beneath the stone bridge, watching Mo Chuhe receive two newly lit lotus lanterns from the old craftsman. The petals, made of translucent glass, emitted a warm yellow glow that swayed gently in the center.

"Give."

He handed her one of the lamps, his fingertips lightly touching it, still warm from the lamplight: "The locals say that if you entrust your wishes to a lamp, the farther it floats with the water, the easier it is for it to come true."

After Mu Jiu took the small, exquisite lamp, she stared blankly at the halo of light dancing in her palm: "Director Mo, do you believe in these things too?"

Mo Chuhe was the most composed and reliable person among the group of guests.

The way he described it—which sounded like something out of a young person's sweet romance—felt somewhat out of place coming from him.

Mo Chuhe didn't seem to care: "Why don't you believe me? Why don't you turn on the phone and offer incense?"

Mu Jiu couldn't help but chuckle softly.

[Why do I feel like Mu Jiu and Mo Chuhe have pretty good chemistry as a couple?]

[I have to say, that short video of the female constable and the young master from the aristocratic family this afternoon was so enjoyable that I'm already treating tonight's live stream as an after-sales service.]

Looking at a face like that, I feel that the amazement on Director Mo's face wasn't acting. /laughs

After queuing up to release their lanterns on the riverbank, the two watched as the lanterns drifted slowly away with the current, and then walked along with the flow of people.

Two or three children carrying rabbit lanterns chased and laughed as they passed by, and instantly the air was filled with the sweet aroma of roasted chestnuts and the faint scent of candlelight.

Mu Jiu looked back following the wind that had just stirred up and saw Ling Zhao, who was facing them from the other side, releasing lanterns.

All the other guests who released lanterns individually were on the opposite bank. Just as Mu Jiu was hesitating whether to go over and greet them, he saw Ling Zhao's hand leave the lantern, and with a "click," the lantern flipped over and went out.

Ling Zhao:......

Mu Jiu: ...

The wish has vanished.

Mo Chuhe: "What's wrong?"

Coming to her senses, and seeing the other person's puzzled expression, Mu Jiu said seriously, "I thought of something sad."

Mo Chuhe raised an eyebrow slightly, looking in her direction as she saw the barely suppressed smile in her eyes.

Just then, another group of people gathered, blocking his view. He couldn't see anything except a cluster of figures.

The interlude has come to an end.

Night flows slowly by amidst people's laughter and dazzling scenery.

Before leaving, after arriving at the parking lot, the production team did not bother the guests who had been busy all day, but instead arranged for a driver to help them drive the car back.

On the way back, listening to the soothing music in the car, Mu Jiu unconsciously closed her eyes. In her hazy state, she felt someone hand her a light blanket.

She barely managed to open her eyes and meet Mo Chuhe's gaze.

Mu Jiu spoke with a deep weariness, "Director Mo? Thank you."

Mo Chuhe waved her hand dismissively: "Go to sleep, I'll wake you when we get there."

Seeing that the other person leaned their head against the car window as if they had lost consciousness after hearing her answer, Mo Chuhe was not surprised.

Of everyone, Mu Jiu had the most exercise today. Several fight scenes and chase scenes were repeatedly filmed and refined over almost an entire afternoon.

But she didn't say much, she just started over again and again according to his requirements.

Mo Chuhe looked at Mu Jiu, who had closed his eyes, through the reflection in the car window.

At the beginning of the show, his script for casting was more inclined towards Meng Shuning and Fang Yucheng.

So he took the initiative to reach out to them.

But... there are still differences.

Although many people have praised Fang Yucheng's acting skills to Mo Chuhe, if Mo Chuhe were to comment, compared to his musical talent, Fang Yucheng's thinking ability in acting would almost be described as dull.

In fact, given Fang Yucheng's talent and reputation, his acting skills are truly a gift from heaven. However, if we set aside his popularity and nitpick from an actor's perspective, his performances are too crafty and lack natural flair.

Outsiders might not notice, but directors with a bit of experience can see the formulaic traces in Fang Yucheng's performance.

Regardless of the role, Fang Yucheng's performances have never delved into the story behind the character; he has always simply focused on accurately portraying stereotypical emotions and lines.

In idol dramas where acting skills are not highly valued, such a performance can garner flowers and applause, and even be praised as dedicated compared to other young idols who are more lackluster.

Under these circumstances, with a little maneuvering from the company, a good script and a role that fit his personality were enough to get him nominated for the Golden Feather Award.

To balance risk, a top-tier male lead with mediocre acting skills is already a good choice. On top of that, simply selecting a similar actress who can balance the plot and the audience's interest would form the core cast.

But after seeing Mu Jiu's performance in front of the camera that afternoon, and the photos she took with Ling Zhao, he changed his mind.

He respects the young fans' fondness for Fang Yucheng and Meng Shuning, and until he sees a better option, Mo Chuhe can overlook their minor shortcomings in acting.

The premise is that he didn't see anything better.

Exquisitely carved jade and a stubborn stone worn down by life are ultimately different.

Top idols who have had a smooth and successful career naturally possess an air of ease and confidence in their rise to the top. This isn't fatal, but it becomes increasingly difficult to ignore when compared to Mu Jiu and Ling Zhao, who also have close interactions.

Initially, the question lingering in his mind was whether to choose someone else for the female lead role.

Then it becomes, if the female lead chooses Mu Jiu, who would be a better fit for the male lead?

Ultimately, all hesitations were put to rest after tonight's live broadcast.

Even though Mu Jiu only wrote one sentence on the answer board, it was as if one could see her reddened eyes and hear her choked voice.

Mo Chuhe looked away from the car window and unlocked her phone.

In just one afternoon, many former colleagues came to visit him and inquired about the guests on the variety show.

Within the directing circle, the most frequently mentioned directors are not Fang Yucheng or Meng Shuning.

It was Mu Jiu.

This actress has the ability to evoke strong empathy from the audience, and in a short period of time, she can make a powerful and impactful impression on everyone.

As for the male lead...

Before the footage was cut off, Ling Zhao appeared to be silently and passively resisting something.

Even the final scene, where she was repeatedly questioned by the staff, was one of them.

Staff member: "The audience is eager to know how you will answer Mu Jiu's question."

An evasive attitude can easily provoke anger, especially since Ling Zhao acted like an irresponsible scumbag, dodging the issue and talking about other things all night.

At that moment, the live stream chat was flooded with comments denouncing Ling Zhao.

Although Mo Chuhe didn't think the other party would be so brainless as to ruin their reputation, she felt that it was better to give some official platitudes early on than to end up in such an embarrassing situation.

But what happened afterward exceeded everyone's expectations.

What can I do?

That silver-gray hair didn't give off the slightest feeling of arrogance or unruliness; instead, it looked as unkempt as an abandoned puppy.

In the suddenly lowered voice, one could almost hear a broken sense of helplessness.

"They looked like a good match back then."