Shen Shiqing was engrossed in the script when he stopped to drink coffee and looked up to see Lu Jingchu outside the glass window.
He had just gotten out of the car, dressed casually, and strode toward the coffee shop with his incredibly long legs.
He saw Shen Shiqing inside the window, and Shen Shiqing naturally saw him too. The two greeted each other politely.
Lu Jingchu waved his hand, his hand muscles were very beautiful, natural and smooth, and his fingers were also very slender with distinct finger bones, which looked... well, very much like that...
You should be pretty good at it, right?
Shen Shiqing was very satisfied, praising himself inwardly—no wonder he's the man my sister has her eye on!
No, no, I need to read the script, I need to focus. I can't be unable to walk past him!
Beauty can be a trap! Beauty can be a trap!
Shen Shiqing comforted herself, pretending nothing had happened, until Lu Jingchu came to her side.
Until Lu Jingchu sat down next to her.
Until Lu Jingchu placed a gift box tied with a pink bow in front of her.
Indifferent?
impossible.
Shen Shiqing could feel his heart pounding violently.
What if I jump again?!
"My mom asked me to bring this to you; it's your fan." Lu Jingchu explained the pink bow-shaped gift box on the table.
"Huh?" Shen Shiqing was somewhat flattered. Have I already become part of the mothers' group?
"Did Auntie give it to me?" Shen Shiqing was still somewhat incredulous.
“Yes, she likes you a lot.” Lu Jingchu said earnestly to Shen Shiqing.
Me too.
Of course, he didn't say that aloud.
"Hmm, then thank Auntie for me? Can I open it now?" Shen Shiqing looked at him with bright eyes.
"Mmm." She turned her face away shyly, her voice deep and captivating.
Shen Shiqing carefully untied the bow and opened the box.
Inside were two very pretty little cakes, even decorated with hearts and smiley faces.
Shen Shiqing seemed to be deep in thought.
"Hearts and smiley faces? Could Lu Jingchu's mom really be a fan of mine? What does she like about me, my face? Hmm... although I like it myself too~"
"But I just ate egg tarts! And these were a gift from Lu Jingchu's mother..."
Lu Jingchu knew what she was thinking and went along with it.
"Let's eat the cake at noon, it's still early." Lu Jingchu's words put Shen Shiqing at ease.
"Okay, let's eat together."
"Mm." Lu Jingchu nodded.
"If this keeps up... I really love him so much... How can he be so wonderful!!!"
Lu Jingchu was delighted to hear this; it seemed to have been helpful. She decided to continue next time.
You can love more.
If Shen Shiqing could hear what Lu Jingchu was thinking, perhaps her illusions would shatter.
A little bit.
In other words, if she knew what Lu Jingchu was thinking, she probably would have gone straight for him.
Lu Jingchu and she sat together, discussing the script and various scenes together, and their ideas coincided.
Shen Shiqing became even more determined in her choice, and Lu Jingchu felt more appreciation for Shen Shiqing than just liking her.
The two continued like this until other crew members arrived one after another.
The screenwriter was also a well-known figure in the industry and an old acquaintance of Lu Jingchu; the two chatted for a few more minutes.
Shen Shiqing noticed that the screenwriter's gaze kept falling on her, with a hint of inquiry in it.
Shen Shiqing didn't understand what she meant, but of course, she didn't make her uncomfortable.
"Hello, screenwriter Wenren Qi."
"Hello, Shen Shiqing."
The two shook hands and gave brief self-introductions.
"I saw your audition, it was very good. You'll gain a lot of fans if you play this role well, so give it your all." Wenren Qi's eyes showed appreciation.
So you've been watching me for so long just to say this?
"Thank you, Teacher Wenren. Your script is fantastic, and I'm honored to be a part of it." Shen Shiqing said sincerely because she really loved the character. Being able to play a role she liked was a joyful experience for an actor.
Before everyone had arrived, the group started discussing the script.
The director ordered a huge amount of food and drinks, filling the entire table without worrying about the cost.
"It's alright, the investors will reimburse us. This investment is huge, so we might as well take advantage of it."
Shen Shiqing thought about it and realized that the main investor in this drama was Huaijiang Entertainment, and Wen Xinran was the designated female lead. They had invested several hundred million yuan. Song Zhihuai was really willing to spend money.
I should have charged a higher breakup fee.
Xing Jianan and Xia Chun also arrived. Xing Jianan walked in front, and Xia Chun followed behind, but Xing Jianan didn't seem to care much about her.
Of course, Xing Jianan doesn't usually pay much attention to people.
Xia Chun tried to get close to the screenwriter and director by using a high-pitched voice, practically sticking to them.
Directors and screenwriters consciously maintain a distance; this is basic professional ethics.
Xia Chun, having gotten nowhere, sat down dejectedly, pretending nothing had happened.
Shen Shiqing saw this and was really afraid that she would rub against Lu Jingchu the next second.
However, she didn't have the guts.
A car stopped in front of the coffee shop, and Wen Xinran stepped out of the car with an air of nonchalance.
Shen Shiqing glanced at the license plate; a row of 8s followed, and he knew without a doubt it was Song Zhihuai.
He even came to deliver it in person; it seems like true love.
He didn't drive away until Wen Xinran entered the coffee shop.
I said, don't love too much.
Shen Shiqing withdrew his gaze and happened to meet Xing Jianan's dark and deep eyes.
Why are you looking at me? Am I any good? Okay, I am good-looking.
Since Shen Shiqing was not the original owner of this body, she naturally had no lingering feelings for him and looked at him frankly.
This time, he lowered his head to avoid eye contact.
Coward, this is boring.
Qin Shiyue rushed over, looking like she hadn't woken up yet; she must have overslept.
Fortunately, he was quick-witted and immediately went to apologize to the director and screenwriter, chatting and trying to build rapport.
There's nothing more to say then.
The other main actors in the crew also arrived, and the script reading officially began.
However, before starting, the director asked everyone to turn off their phones, which was his usual practice.
So everyone consciously turned off their phones. Shen Shiqing was fine with it; she didn't like looking at her phone while working, which was her habit.
Everyone was working quickly, sharing their opinions and suggestions. With these combined, the actors' understanding and portrayal of the characters in the script became even more perfect.
When it came to Xia Chun, he stammered and couldn't utter a complete sentence with any substance, clearly indicating that he hadn't systematically studied the entire script. The director and screenwriter looked displeased.
As an actor, the most basic requirement should be to thoroughly understand the script, right? Otherwise, how can you play a role well?
If an actor doesn't perform well and the audience doesn't like it, then the show will flop.
Xia Chun wanted to say something more to defend herself, but her phone suddenly rang. She hurriedly turned it off and didn't dare to say anything more.
Shen Shiqing glanced at the screenwriter and director out of the corner of his eye and knew at a glance that Xia Chun's start was not good.
After the script reading ended in the morning, all the food on the table was gone.
The production team booked several tables of food and drinks at a nearby hotel, and they went there at noon.
Before leaving, Shen Shiqing made sure to bring the cake with him as a dessert after the meal.
The group drove over, the dishes were served, and the director gave his remarks, officially starting the meal.
The director, screenwriter, and lead actor sat at one table.
The table was laden with food and wine. Shen Shiqing thought that since it was paid for by Song Zhihuai, there was no need to be polite. Why not eat it if it's free?
So he ate two bowls of rice and tried all the dishes; the taste was pretty good.
Shen Shiqing ate heartily and happily, and Lu Jingchu, sitting beside her, also felt pleased.
Lu Jingchu ate slowly and deliberately, and her every move was very elegant, showing that she was well-mannered.
Although Shen Shiqing ate a lot, he paid attention to table manners and there was nothing to criticize about him.
If we're talking about eating a lot...
That's too harsh on female celebrities.
Lu Jingchu put on disposable plastic gloves and removed the shells from the crayfish, leaving only plump meat.
He peeled several of them but didn't eat any; instead, he put them in Shen Shiqing's bowl the next second.
Shen Shiqing looked up in surprise. She had been craving it for a long time and didn't expect the movie star to be so thoughtful.
I have another reason to like him.
How could Lu Jingchu not know that Shen Shiqing loved crayfish? Her gaze lingered on him countless times.
Lobsters are hard to peel, and Shen Shiqing has just eaten one. Since they are hard to peel, he will peel them himself.
Shen Shiqing said thank you and lowered his head to taste it.
"As expected, the shrimp peeled by Actor Lu is so delicious!!! I really wish someone could peel crayfish for me for the rest of my life." Shen Shiqing thought it was even fresher than the ones she had just peeled.
Lu Jingchu heard what she was thinking.
A lifetime? Of course, if you're willing.
Shen Shiqing gave Lu Jingchu a thumbs up, which made Lu Jingchu laugh.
The interaction between the two was witnessed by everyone at the table, and Lu Yingdi's smile just now was just too radiant!
Xia Chun, gripping her chopsticks, couldn't hold back any longer. What right did Shen Shiqing have? What right did he have?
"I'm saying some people have hands and can feed themselves, right? They don't need to bother others, do they?" The tone was very sarcastic.
So everyone's attention turned to her.
She was a little embarrassed. "What I wanted to say is that Actor Lu is such a nice person. He even peeled shrimp for the people next to him."
“I don’t help everyone who sits next to me.” Lu Jingchu spoke slightly, her words short but extremely impactful.
A single, casual remark caused both of their expressions to change.
One of them was Xia Chun, who also didn't expect Lu Jingchu to so openly protect Shen Shiqing.
One was Wen Xinran, because she was sitting on the other side of Lu Jingchu. Not only did she not get a word in edgewise, but Lu Jingchu's words just now were a slap in the face.
She looked somewhat embarrassed, and also somewhat resentful of Xia Chun, that brainless girl who spoke without thinking and always caused trouble.
Xing Jianan and Qin Shiyue looked on with rather unpleasant expressions, though Shen Shiqing had no idea what was bothering them.
"Of course, if you want to peel shrimp for me, I can give you that opportunity." Shen Shiqing smiled, speaking to Xia Chun. After causing trouble several times, Shen Shiqing was not one to swallow his anger.
An actor next to her tugged at Xia Chun, and she stopped lashing out, though her eyes remained resentful.
"Are Teacher Lu and Teacher Shen already at the point where they can peel shrimp together?" asked Xing Jianan, who hadn't spoken until now.
His words stirred up a huge wave of discussion.
He really dared to ask that question, and he was really direct about it.
I'd like to think that's the kind of relationship we have, but for Lu Jingchu's sake, I'd better clarify.
"Teacher Lu and I were just practicing the plot of the script, wouldn't you agree, Teacher Wenren?"
Wenren Qi had already put down his meal to "watch the battle," and maybe he could even get some inspiration.
Shen Shiqing's question actually woke him up from his "watching the excitement and not caring about the trouble" state.
After a moment's thought, he replied, "That scene is indeed in the script. Jingchu and Shiqing acted it very well, just like in an idol drama."
The director, who was engrossed in his meal, looked up upon hearing this. "Oh, really? Then I can rest assured about this scene, hahaha."
You're really oblivious; you were so busy eating that you didn't notice what was happening just now?
Or perhaps they noticed but didn't want to get involved; it's better to avoid trouble, no matter which circle you're in.
Those on the field looked enlightened upon hearing this.
Some people also started praising her and Lu Jingchu for their professionalism and good acting.
You actually believed that?
It's mostly an act.
Shen Shiqing thought to himself, "They're all seasoned veterans."
However, they dared not say anything, after all, Lu Jingchu's status was undeniable.
Besides, they didn't do anything out of line, so there shouldn't be any problem.
etc! ! ! !
"How did Lu Jingchu know I wanted to eat shrimp?! And why did he peel shrimp for me?! And what did he say?!?"
Shen Shiqing realized what was happening, her mind was a bit confused, but she couldn't find a reasonable explanation.
I need to calm down first and think about it properly when I'm alone.
So she focused on eating again, completely ignoring the glances Xing Jianan kept casting at her.
After a hearty meal and drinks, the group prepared to begin the opening ceremony.
It was very close, so Shen Shiqing decided to walk over later. She took out the cake and opened it; it was well-preserved, just like it was in the morning.
"Wow, Shi Qing's cake is so beautiful! Maybe you can give me one?" Wen Xinran looked like she really wanted it, but Shen Shi Qing knew her; she was just pretending.
So Shen Shiqing said two words without hesitation—
"No." He then took out a piece of cake, took a bite, and handed the other one to Lu Jingchu.
This was nothing short of a second slap in the face for Wen Xinran.
"Why do you have to be like this, Shi Qing? If you don't want to give it to me, you can just say so." She put on such a pitiful act, but I'm not Song Zhihuai, so I wouldn't feel sorry for her.
"I've already said it straight," Shen Shiqing said, looking directly at her. "I just said no, isn't that clear enough?"
"I……"
"Hey, Ranran, ignore her. She's treating this cake like it's a treasure, like nobody wants to eat it. Let's go." Xia Chun gestured, and someone packed up the equipment in the corner by the door.
Xia Chun felt a little scared when she turned around; Lu Yingdi's gaze had been terrifying.
It was like—wanting to strangle her.
Sweat beaded on his back, and he walked away quickly.
When Shen Shiqing looked back at Lu Jingchu, Lu Jingchu's sky cleared after a period of cloudy weather.
"Mmm, it's delicious! I've never had such a good cupcake before. Please thank Auntie for me."
Lu Jingchu smiled, but Shen Shiqing didn't see it.
The two headed to the location where the machine would be turned on; there were still twenty minutes until the auspicious time.
When the auspicious time arrived, the host, director, screenwriter, and producer all went on stage to speak, focusing on introducing the main actors and crew, as well as their hopes for the production.
The middle part is the usual burning of incense, worshipping Buddha, and giving out red envelopes.
Incense is burned in pairs.
Lu Jingchu and Shen Shiqing were the most devout when they offered incense, and of course, they were the ones who were filmed the most.
The popularity speaks for itself.
As for the positioning, the male and female leads should naturally stand together, the second male and female leads should stand together, and the other main actors should stand a little to the side. Otherwise, if it were posted online, it would cause a huge uproar.
People stood on the stage holding red envelopes, while many media outlets below took photos, the clicking sounds filling the air.
Many of them came because of Lu Jingchu.
It is obvious.
Finally, the camera covered with red cloth was lifted, signifying a successful "warding off of evil," and the opening ceremony was almost complete.
After the opening ceremony, Shen Shiqing returned to the coffee shop to wait for Lin Man to pick her up.
I took out my phone and realized it had been off for ages and hadn't been turned on yet.
The opening ceremony was over, but her phone was still not turned on.
My phone finally turned on, and I was just thinking of calling Lin Man when I unexpectedly received a call from her.
"Sister Shi!!! Quick, check Weibo! Something terrible has happened!!!"
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