Chapter 9

As expected, Gu Jinlan arrived on time when the program rehearsal began that evening.

He brought a dedicated makeup, styling, and costume team, which was even more elaborate than what the production team had prepared.

Seeing Gu Jinlan in person, her aura was even more intimidating. Although everyone wanted to watch the drama unfold, no one dared to look directly at her.

After all, the power of connections in the capital world is immense, and no one dares to offend Gu Jinlan.

Gu Jinlan is probably extremely intelligent and well-read. After a few pointers from the acting teacher, apart from having some difficulty finding the right camera angle, her performance was actually quite remarkable.

Ye Zhen frowned as he held the script. If this person was truly outstanding, could it be that he could master anything extremely quickly?

This time, Gu Jinlan grabbed Ye Zhen and pressed her against the wall. Ye Zhen slightly raised her chin and looked down at her.

"You are the emperor of Yong Kingdom?" Gu Jinlan, playing the general, glared at him with eyes like swords. "With such beauty, it's no wonder he brought down his own kingdom."

Gu Jinlan speaks clearly, likely due to her long experience in the business world, and exudes an imposing aura.

Ye Zhen was pinned down by him, her heart pounding uncontrollably, and fine beads of sweat appeared on her forehead.

The other person's gaze was like a lock or a chain, entangling the soul, round and round.

"You killed me."

The beginning was strong, and the ending was weak. Combined with Gu Jinlan's slightly clenched fingers, Ye Zhen seemed to be choked to the point of barely breathing.

Gu Jinlan narrowed her eyes and suddenly laughed: "I've heard that the Princess is as beautiful as the Emperor. I've been wanting to soak in a hot spring lately. Would the Emperor like to come by himself, or would you like the Princess to come instead?"

Ye Zhen loosened his clenched fist, and the shadow lingered on his face like a teardrop.

He said, "I'll go."

The following shots were also filmed in a dreamlike and ethereal style, with surprisingly good results.

Ye Zhen and Gu Jinlan finished filming, their palms still sweating.

Gu Jinlan unscrewed the bottle of mineral water and handed it to him, but Ye Zhen was still immersed in the intimidating feeling of the scene and subconsciously tried to avoid it.

"What are you afraid of?" Gu Jinlan frowned, his black hat and high bun making him look even more handsome. "It's so hot in the studio, you'll get heatstroke if you don't drink water."

Ye Zhen exhaled and took the water bottle from Gu Jinlan: "I didn't expect you to be so talented."

"I've made things clear with Lin Shengming." Gu Jinlan drank her water, looking away. "He and I are in the past."

He looked at Ye Zhen: "And you?"

Ye Zhen choked on the water.

He certainly liked Xie Chengming, but it was more of a budding, innocent crush during adolescence.

Ye Zhen is a rational person, and after learning about the other person's sexual orientation, he quickly handled the relationship between the two.

It cannot be denied that Gu Jinlan is indeed attractive.

Whether in appearance, ability, conduct, or wealth, he is a prodigy.

But the more the other party resembled a golden treasure, the more uneasy Ye Zhen became.

Even the white moonlight can be forgotten, so how long can he remain steadfast in his beliefs?

Silence is the clearest form of hesitation.

Gu Jinlan raised an eyebrow slightly and shook her head slightly: "You don't trust me."

He didn't say anything more about the matter, but was extremely considerate at the scene, handing out water and tissues, acting like a true gentleman.

A little while later, Gu Jinlan's assistant brought Black Swan's coffee and desserts for delivery. The production crew and the audience benefited from this, and everyone thanked Ye Zhen.

Gu Jinlan chatted with the producer and director for a few more minutes, exchanging business cards. Sure enough, the way people around Ye Zhen looked at him was even more unusual.

Ye Zhen was a little flustered. He wasn't bad at dealing with people, but he wasn't as considerate as Gu Jinlan.

Entering the entertainment industry, he always felt exhausted, but his first time participating in a variety show was so easy.

Whether intentionally or unintentionally, Gu Jinlan made sure everyone else had coffee and dessert, but he didn't.

Ye Zhen felt a little depressed. Was it really necessary? Such a petty old man.

He also wanted to have Black Swan's coffee.

Perhaps sensing Ye Zhen's gaze, Gu Jinlan walked over, carrying something in her hand.

"My coffee beans are still better."

Gu Jinlan took the portable hand-grind coffee machine and made a cup for Ye Zhen right there on the table.

"General's Coffee." Gu Jinlan smiled slightly and handed the steaming hot drink to Ye Zhen. "This is the only one of its kind; there are no other branches."

Ye Zhen looked up at him; through the smoke, the other's silhouette appeared hazy yet warm.

My heart was pounding erratically, like a rabbit seeing a carrot.

Stay calm. Use gentle persuasion; don't let yourself lose your composure.

Ye Zhen took the coffee, took a small sip, and was overwhelmed by the slightly bitter and mellow aroma.

I can't calm down, this is just too delicious.

Gu Jinlan handed him another cake.

"What is this?" Ye Zhen frowned. "A fat black swan? And it's wearing a crown?"

Gu Jinlan smiled slightly: "Yes, Ye Zhen's Ugly Duckling, I had it specially made."

This person is so annoying.

Ye Zhen ignored him, ate the fat swan in one bite, and was then surprised by the rich chocolate flavor on her taste buds.

It's delicious.

Let your soul soak in mead.

After eating all that food and filming some more scenes, the production team felt the makeup and styling were so good that they added several large lights and wind machines to film several close-ups.

The scene was chaotic with many people. The wiring of the lights and the blower were tangled together. A passing staff member tripped over it, and the headlight shone down on Ye Zhen.

With a clang, Gu Jinlan only had time to shield Ye Zhen with her own body before a corner of the flashlight slammed into his head.

"Gu Jinlan!!!"

Ye Zhen stared in horror at the other person's bleeding forehead, her fingertips trembling.

"Someone, get him to the hospital right away!"