Chapter 541: Not Interested in the Slightest
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
The food was already served by the time Shen Xi and Fu Qingxuan came around. The spread was a bountiful feast of home-cooked dishes. There was seafood too.
While Shen Xi quickly took the seat next to Li Yuan, Fu Qingxuan wheeled himself to his designated place and noticed the pair had different tableware than the rest of them.
Shen Xi and Li Yuan’s chopsticks and bowls were engraved with a motif while the rest was porcelain white.
This was a case of sour grapes for Fu Qingxuan. Matching design for the couple, huh?
As the host, Li Yuan told Fu Qingxuan to help himself before shelling the shrimps and putting them on the plate before him. Since shrimps were in season, the plump orange flesh was rather appetizing.
Shen Xi dug in the crayfish and made recommendations to Fu Qingxuan. “Try this. This is made by the head chef of royal banquets. Our country’s top chef if I may say so.”
Fu Qingxuan was here to eat to begin with, but to share the same space with Li Yuan made him lose his appetite. No one gave a sh*t whether it was some royal banquet, and it was not as though he never enjoyed one before.
However, he was puzzled by the food arrangement. Fu Qingxuan was sitting in the middle with seafood to his left and home-cooked food to his right.
Jin Yu, who was sitting on his right, only had common dishes within reach. It would be quite a stretch for Jin Yu to satisfy his craving for seafood. Curling his lips, Fu Qingxuan inquired, “Aren’t you going to have some seafood, Mr. Jin Yu?”
Jin Yu explained with a smile. “I’m allergic to shellfish. Please help yourselves.”
Fu Qingxuan’s mind wandered off again. Dad was also allergic to seafood and Qingye inherited the gene. The allergic reaction could prove deadly upon contact with shellfish. He and Qingli escaped that fate.
Nevertheless, seafood allergy was one of the most common types of allergies. It did not mean anything.
After that day, Fu Qingxuan often popped in next door when Li Yuan was not around. So long as he did not lump Mr. Jin Yu and Li Yuan together, Fu Qingxuan was able to get along with Mr. Jin Yu.
Alas, Fu Qingxuan did not have a chance to realize the wish to try Mr. Jin Yu’s food since Qingli bombarded him with calls to return. Fu Qingxuan left with regret.
Fu Qingli was in China for business. He wondered if he had gone mad to drive all the way to the Shens’ residence and was even more upset when Fu Qingxuan emerged from the door alone. For some reason, Fu Qingli felt disappointed.
What was he thinking? What was he disappointed about? Was it because the girl was not there?
Having his cast removed just yesterday, Fu Qingxuan was still wobbly on his feet. He got into the car and got the ball rolling in conversation before being asked. “Xixi and Mrs. Shen are not at home. They went to visit Yu Yuanxi’s set. I don’t think you met Yu Yuanxi. He’s an actor in a film…”
Fu Qingli gave him a chilling look. It was apparent that Fu Qingxuan’s rambling was getting on his nerves.
Getting the message, Fu Qingxuan shut up but not for long. “Qingli, I met a person here. His name is Jin Yu. He’s a nice man and knows everything, you name it. He can cook. Oh, he does great woodwork too…”
“Zip it!” Fu Qingli did not come all the way here to be bored to death. He was not interested in the slightest about what his brother did or who he met here.
Mom’s birthday was around the corner, yet Fu Qingxuan was screwing around out there. Using the car accident as an excuse, Fu Qingxuan ditched his responsibilities at the lab and even forgot about Mom’s birthday. Shen Xi seemed to take priority over everything else!
°
°
°
Chapter 542: Swing By the Set
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Looking rather disappointed, Fu Qingxuan shushed it and turned his head away.
Fu Qingli looked out the window from the corner of his eyes as the feeling of annoyance overflooded his senses. Closing the lid of his laptop, he leaned against the car seat for a quick shut eye.
Fu Qingxuan sent Shen Xi a message. [Fu Qingxuan: Are you there yet?]
Shen Xi received the message when she had gotten off the plane and was getting into the rental car to go to the set. She gave a brief reply. [Shen Xi: Yes.]
[Fu Qingxuan: I’m going back home.]
[Shen Xi: Oh.]
Based on those single-word replies, Fu Qingxuan could imagine his leaving did not bother nor did it matter to Shen Xi. With his heart sinking to the pit of his stomach, he tightened his grip over the phone. He was tempted to ask if there was anything else she would like to add.
Then came a double text message from Shen Xi. [Shen Xi: Take care, stay safe.]
The cloudiness overshadowing Fu Qingxuan’s grimacing face quickly cleared up. Curling his lips in delight, he was easy to please. He read the single line of message over and over again.
Meanie still cared for him.
Sure, Meanie had a sharp tongue, but her heart was in the right place.
Fu Qingli peered over to find Fu Qingxuan smiling like an idiot at his phone. He observed with disdain and caught a glimpse of the name “Meanie” flickering on Fu Qingxuan’s mobile screen.
He knew this was the nickname Qingxuan gave Shen Xi. Qingxuan called her a meanie and knew that she was one, so why could he not just stay away?
This was the case with Qingye, and himself as well.
Fu Qingli could lie to the world, but who was he trying to fool? He did not come all this way to bring Qingxuan home.
Fu Qingxuan headed home.
Shen Xi and Yun Jinping were on their way to swing by the set.
Yun Jinping had informed Yu Yuanxi’s manager, He Xiang, of their arrival beforehand.
He Xiang had been waiting for them at the nearest intersection to the set. He was holding a banner in his hands written, “Welcome fellow Lil’ Yu’er to the set”.
“Lil Yu’er” was Yu Yuanxi’s fandom name.
He Xiang printed a huge banner for easy spotting in case the ladies missed him. Once an assistant to the former big-shot manager, Chen Nan, He Xiang had seen it all. However, this was the first time he entertained fans as Yu Yuanxi’s manager.
For Yu Yuanxi’s first film, the production funds were limited and all spent on the shoot, leaving little to no room for publicity.
Since the filming began, there was only a series of photographs from the opening ceremony, together with a brief introduction and the actors’ names that could be found online. No further information was released thereafter.
As the film’s leading man, Yu Yuanxi showed up once during the opening ceremony. His fans, who loved his appearance and the way he carried himself, chose to follow him while betting on the odds that he would make it big. There was a sense of accomplishment the fans would feel as they grew together with their favorite idol.
So far, a fan support club was established but only had less than a hundred followers. This was the first time the fans were visiting the set.
The captain of the fans, “Virtual Yun”, claimed to be over forty years old and a mother-figure fan to Yu Yuanxi. She was also the owner of the fandom’s group chat and president of the fan support club.
Here to visit the set together with the fans was Virtual Yun, who got in touch with He Xiang a week ago. He was embarrassed to call her the leader because of the sparse number of fans. There were a total of ten attendants and one of them was not a fan but Virtual Yun’s daughter.
After working for Chen Nan as an assistant for a year and having been trained as his successor, He Xiang was more than familiar with the rules in showbiz. Yu Yuanxi had done well in managing the fans despite being fresh in the business.
Nowadays, proper fans and social media management were beginning to make waves in showbiz. He Xiang was certain that the fans would be the most important asset in an artist’s career for a long time to come. It was best to start from now to unite the fans.
Even though there were only less than a dozen fans coming, He Xiang saw potential in these people to become Yu Yuanxi’s most loyal and steadfast fans in the fandom.
Additionally, he wanted to explore to fish out any possible talents who could aid in managing the fanbase.
Soon, a bus stopped in front of him.
He Xiang adjusted his glasses before plastering a friendly smile on his face and approaching them.
With girls getting down one after the other from the bus, He Xiang drew near for a closer look. These young girls, who were dazzling with the vigor of youth, appeared to be of high school age.
He Xiang was dumbstruck and lost his head when the last two ladies got off the bus. Gazing at the young and beautiful girl in all smiles, he doubted his eyes which could be playing tricks on him.
That was right.
A hallucination.
To think he just saw Lil’ Chairman Shen!
Moreover, the Lil’ Chairman Shen before his eyes was gentle and had a sweet smile, bringing an air of adolescence and daintiness to her. It was quite the opposite of the aloof and mature Lil’ Chairman Shen with a commanding presence in the office.
With He Xiang approaching in a fluster, Shen Xi placed her index finger against her lips to hush him. She also tipped him the wink.
He Xiang was quick-witted to get the hint that Lil’ Chairman Shen preferred to remain anonymous. The woman Lil’ Chairman Shen clung onto was gentle, pretty, and looked young for her age, albeit traces of aging were still visible on her face. She must be the mother-figure fan, Virtual Yun.
Virtual Yun mentioned she would be swinging by the set together with her daughter. In that case, Lil’ Chairman Shen was Virtual Yun’s daughter and Virtual Yun was Lil’ Chairman Shen’s mother!
If Virtual Yun was Yu Yuanxi’s mother-figure fan, it made Lil’ Chairman Shen’s mother a fan of Yu Yuanxi!
“Hello, Mr. He.” Yun Jinping walked over and greeted him.
Since He Xiang revered Lil’ Chairman Shen, he politely returned the greeting, “Hello, Madam.”
He had caught wind that Yu Yuanxi was brought in by Lil’ Chairman Shen to sign with the company. It was also her decision to hire him as Yu Yuanxi’s manager.
Nevertheless, He Xiang had his doubts about the rumor because Yu Yuanxi was basically invisible and non-existent in the office. Since he had a film under his belt, the company should at least promote him, market him, and build him up.
Yet, crickets. Nothing was done at all. There was no arrangement whatsoever for Yu Yuanxi, and if it had not been for the movie still in the filming stage and the handpicked brilliant script, he was tempted to pick the executives’ brains.
Yun Jinping smiled and introduced Shen Xi. “This is my daughter, Shen Xi.”
He Xiang cleared his throat before nodding with mixed feelings. “Hello.”
°
°
°
Chapter 543: Green
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Shen Xi smiled. “Hello.”
At the end of the day, Mr. He was green and needed to get out there more. At least then, he would not have worn his heart on his sleeve.
The other girls quickly swarmed in to greet and introduce themselves before excitedly following He Xiang to the set.
Many of them, including Shen Xi and Yun Jinping, had never visited a filming set before. Since everyone had time during summer and they happened to be in the capital, the girls signed up to come along when Yun Jinping proposed this in the group chat.
As they walked, He Xiang was having mixed feelings about walking beside Shen Xi and Yun Jinping like an errand boy, and nothing like the big-shot manager that he was. It was not because he was not able to get it together, rather Lil’ Chairman Shen was carrying herself with much authority. Ask any one of the company’s executives including Chairman Yuan, and they would admit to trembling in her presence.
Lil’ Chairman Shen may be young, but she was highly capable and commanded the room. She did not have much to say during meetings but every time she opened her mouth, it was spot on and straight to the heart of the matter. She was out to prove that age was only a number when it came to the crunch.
Truth be told, no one in the office thought any lesser of Lil’ Chairman Shen because of her age. Everyone respected and admired her as though she was born to rule over them.
The production team welcomed the visiting fans brought by He Xiang. After all, not even the tabloids dropped by the set since the start of their shoot.
With the fans around, they should get some organic publicity and get the ball rolling. However, it never occurred to them that He Xiang only brought less than a dozen over. People would think he brought his assistants along. The major stars aside, even D-ranked celebrities would have bigger personnel with their assistants and bodyguards combined.
Among the fans, two ladies drew attention. One was a charming middle-aged woman while the other was a breathtakingly beautiful girl. They could not take their eyes away from them.
“Yuanxi is filming his scene. Wait here for a bit.” He Xiang was looking at Shen Xi while talking.
“Sure.” Since Yun Jinping was the oldest and the organizer of the trip, the other girls called her Madam. She oversaw the outing.
She was not here to disrupt Lil’ Yu’s work.
“I’m heading there to take a look.” As a qualified manager, He Xiang had plans of his own.
He was going to inform Yu Yuanxi that Lil’ Chairman Shen was here so he could get ready in advance. He did not want Yu Yuanxi to be thrown in a fluster and leave a bad impression then.
As He Xiang was about to take off, Yun Jinping stopped him and whispered, “Mr. He, can we buy the production team a drink?”
She had asked fans of other celebrities and checked on the dos and don’ts when swinging by the set prior to her arrival. Certain production teams allowed access, filming, and treats, while other sets had strict rules about buying drinks, let alone taking pictures. Fans were lucky enough to be able to meet with their idol.
“Yes.” He Xiang nodded with a smile. With Yun Jinping whipping out pen and paper, He Xiang got the cue and clapped his hands for everyone’s attention. “Yuanxi’s fans wish to buy bubble tea for everyone. Please come and let us know your preference.”
Staff members, extras, actors, and actors’ assistants rushed to the scene to sign up after hearing that Yu Yuanxi’s fans were treating them to bubble tea. Who was going to say no to free drinks?
The registration of names and preferences was soon over. The list totaled more than a hundred. Yun Jinping tallied up the numbers with staff on set before leading a few girls to handle the task.
Shen Xi was not part of the buying ensemble. She found a quiet spot on set and sat down to play a mobile game. Before she could even finish one round, she heard a rude, cocky, and commanding female voice coming from behind her shouting, “Hey, you! Sit somewhere else!”
°
°
°
Chapter 544: Apologize to Me!
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Shen Xi did not bother to lift her head since she was in the heat of the game.
The nearby extras were standing by the sidelines with popcorn in hand.
They identified the girl sitting on the chair to be a fan of Yu Yuanxi. She was brought in by his manager, He Xiang.
The gorgeous lady who arrogantly told Shen Xi to give up her seat was also a familiar face. She was the second supporting actress of the movie called Zhou Zhen and an absolute stunner.
They always believed that Zhou Zhen was a true beauty, untainted by cosmetic surgery, and prettier than the leading lady and supporting actress. Yet now, she was overshadowed by the girl on the chair.
The girl on the chair was noble, poised, and indifferent inside out, giving off an illusion of an ethereal fairy.
It made Zhou Zhen’s beauty appear tacky and superficial in comparison.
Zhou Zhen was not a big name, but she was known for her ill temper, lack of manners, and her ability to kick up a fuss at anything. Still, the director took her side because of her great acting skills. No one among the production crew had the guts to go against her.
“Hey, are you deaf?” With the cold shoulder from Shen Xi getting to Zhou Zhen, she questioned aloud, “Where did this extra come from? Is anyone her superior?”
While the production team was playing dumb and deaf, a few of them made a run for it. They might as well since Zhou Zhen was not someone they wanted to cross. It was best they stayed out of it.
They steered clear of Zhou Zhen as this lady was all the rage in the production. She was more popular than the main stars of the film, so no one was going to step on her toes.
“You…” Zhou Zhen shot an angry glare at the fleeing crew members before stamping her foot in rage. Putting all the blame and anger on Shen Xi, she aimed for Shen Xi’s leg.
She was about to make the kick when the chair suddenly swerved left. With her foot making a miss, she slipped and kneeled on the ground in a thump.
That was right.
Kneeled.
“Are you alright?” Shen Xi finally put away her phone and curled her lips at the woman on her knees. The woman might be a knockout, but there was something dingy about her beauty.
Caught between humiliation and rage, Zhou Zhen was spitting fire from her eyes. She let out a heated scream, “You’re behind this!”
Shen Xi furrowed her brows in bewilderment before getting up. She gave away the seat as she had no intentions to get into it with an uncultured person and stoop to her level. Shen Xi then walked away.
“Hold it right there!” Zhou Zhen always had her way on the set, abusing the director’s favoritism. Even the main actors made themselves scarce in her presence, let alone these measly extras. She could crush them at the snap of her fingers.
Shen Xi looked back, raising her brow and pointing at the chair with a smile. The message was clear – she could have the seat.
Although the look on the girl’s face was nothing out of the ordinary, Zhou Zhen could sense disdain and humiliation washing all over her. Sparks were flying. “I said, hold it right there!”
Who did the girl think she was to do this to her!
Shen Xi returned a puzzled look.
The onlooking extras watched on, not knowing what to expect. Zhou Zhen was coming hard at the girl while the latter was no pushover either. Without doing a thing, the girl was about to push Zhou Zhen to the edge. This was a skill itself.
Only a handful believed Zhou Zhen falling to her knees was by chance, but it was hard to challenge the theory since no one saw the girl in action.
The girl stayed true to her social graces and civilities the whole time, practicing good manners in the face of Zhou Zhen’s unsparing yelling.
Zhou Zhen was acting like a fool, showing her full-blown ugly and hysterical side before Shen Xi. Yet, the girl brushed her off without taking anything to heart.
It was not like Zhou Zhen was oblivious to her surroundings. Having been made a laughingstock, she furiously chided, “Apologize to me!”
Shen Xi turned back and spoke at last. Instead of asking Zhou Zhen, she asked one of the extras while pointing at Zhou Zhen’s head. “Does she have loose screws there?”
What a great comeback!
Why was the troublemaker demanding an apology!
It was high time someone put the arrogant and obnoxious Zhou Zhen in her place. The extras burst into laughter. Rather than having loose screws, it was more so empty.
She had nothing going for her except her good looks and acting skills. Her time could be better spent on acquiring a diploma in P’s and Q’s. It was said that the director discovered her in a club.
Rumors had it that her mom was the headliner of a well-known club in China who attended to elites of the political and business world. She picked up a thing or two about debauchery, molding her into a spoiled brat. Sure, she might be a lady on the surface, but it did not steer her away from the courtesan within.
“You…” Zhou Zhen had never been so humiliated as she always called the shots. With bloodshot eyes, she refused to reason. “Don’t even think about leaving this place before you apologize!”
Shen Xi put on a stiff upper lip, wiping her smile away for the first time today. “Are you the boss?”
“Yes!” Zhou Zhen scoffed coldly. She knew fear would get to the girl. Feeling smug, Zhou Zhen was in the mood for charity. “I’ll tell the director to let you continue working as an extra if you bow down to me and apologize.”
Ha! An extra sure had the audacity to give her the attitude. It was good that the girl felt her wrath as Zhou Zhen was not going to lose her pride over it.
The airhead brought out the callousness in Shen Xi. She uttered in a flat tone, “You can try me. Let’s see who leaves then.”
Zhou Zhen was unable to discern whether Shen Xi was telling the truth or bluffing. How well-connected could an extra be? Zilch.
“The extras over there.” A few feet away, someone shouted and pointed at them. “Time to work.”
It was the extras’ cue to run off since they were only here for the money. For that once-in-lifetime chance to find fame, they held it together and started on minor roles from the ground up. They ran lines and checked on each other’s makeup.
With the current extras here, the associate director did a headcount and found one person short. He turned to Shen Xi and roared, “You there, what are you doing? Don’t you want to make money?”
Shen Xi turned over and swept a cold glance at him.
Shuddering at the chilling stare, the associate took a moment before blasting, “Yes, you. Hurry up. We’re starting right away!”
Shen Xi bobbed her head and actually went over. It had been a while since she engaged in acting. She did not see why she could not be an extra.. At least, she could give the cocky dimwit a run for her money.
°
°
°
Chapter 545: A Real Extra
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Zhou Zhen was shaking with rage as Shen Xi walked away. Stomping her foot, she pointed at Shen Xi. “Hold it right there! Do you hear me? I said stop!”
Taking Zhou Zhen as a dog barking behind her, Shen Xi went with the extras.
Zhou Zhen had got her eye on that girl. She clenched her fists and scowled at Shen Xi. If only looks could kill. Just wait, revenge was a dish best served cold. She intended to tell Mr. Wang, the director, to chase the girl out of the set!
The associate director was frazzled on the set. After throwing Shen Xi a set of soiled clothes, he directed the makeup artist to paint her face before getting a martial art instructor to teach the others the moves.
This was for a fighting scene where Xue Chenhuan, the main character played by Yu Yuanxi, was discovered by a gang of panhandlers before a fight in front of an inn ensued.
Shen Xi soon came out with changed clothes.
Feeling the tension from the pressing director, the associate director had not gotten a good look at Shen Xi. He only noted she was a beautiful young lady, but pretty faces were a common find in the film and TV base. It was not like he could remember all of them.
The associate director’s eyes lit up following Shen Xi’s appearance. The great makeup captured the essence of the character named Huazi. The greasepaint breathed life to the character of a beggar compared to the other extras. The associate director pointed at the makeup artist. “Redo their makeup according to hers.”
Look at the makeup on these other extras. The associate director was going to get it from Mr. Wang later. There would not be a comparison in the absence of a good and a bad, but unfortunately, the situation now was not the case and the quality showed.
Caught in between a rock and a hard place, the makeup artist glanced at Shen Xi. “Sir, she did the makeup herself.”
Jesus. Her jaw dropped to the ground when she watched the girl apply her makeup. The girl performed miracles, changing her jawline and face shape like magic. It could be passed off as cosmetic surgery!
Most importantly, it only took Shen Xi mere minutes for the beggar makeup to come to life. The makeup artist was now convinced she was not worthy of her job title.
“She did it?” The associate director took stock of Shen Xi, but there was no time to ask questions. “I’ll add a hundred yuan to your pay for each painted face. Do the same on them.”
The extras on set were mostly here for the money. Who would say no to cash?
Shen Xi did not refuse. She took a headcount and tallied the numbers to eight. The original makeup artist’s work was not too shabby, so a minor touch-up was sufficient. It would not take too long.
The associate director urged her. “Hurry up. The scene’s coming right up and Mr. Wang is waiting.”
Shen Xi replied, “Sure.”
The associate director’s opinion of Shen Xi changed for the better as he was impressed by her composure. His eyes popped out when she worked her magic. “Um… Would you consider becoming our makeup artist? I’ll give you a fixed salary of 5,000 yuan plus commission with insurance and housing funds paid for. Of course, we can also throw in a few scenes if you’re into acting.”
Shen Xi was caught between laughter and tears. He genuinely thought she was an extra. God knows she was only here to visit the set as a fan. “I don’t have the time.”
The associate director frowned. What was taking up her time? Be it a makeup artist or an extra, she would be stuck on set all day for work to begin. “Why don’t you have the time?”
Surprised by the relentless questions, Shen Xi answered, “I was dragged here as a makeweight. I’m not an extra. I’m just a fan of Yu Yuanxi.”
Amid the mind-blowing moment, the associate director turned to the extras. These were familiar faces who had been with the set to this day. They had probably been in at least eight to ten scenes.
The extras nodded their heads to vouch for the girl. The young lady was Yu Yuanxi’s fan and not an extra. The associate director looked scary when he called her over!
They believed that the girl felt threatened by the associate director’s mean looks.
Refusing to give up on a rare talent, the associate director practiced perseverance. “Please consider joining our production team. We pay well. I can discuss with the director if it doesn’t come close to the figure you have in mind.”
The nearby makeup artist watched with expectant eyes. She could learn a thing or two, maybe even be her student if this cosmetics guru joined the set. She had never seen such amazing makeup skills.
With such skills at hand, she would sit on top of the world of cosmetics! Oh, she could die and go to Heaven.
Shen Xi thought to herself, ‘It’s not like you can afford me since I style celebrities with the likes of Fu Qingye.’ She shook her head with a smile, “I don’t want to waste your time. I’m too busy.”
Although disappointed, the associate director was not going to insist since she made up her mind. He could lead a horse to the water, but he could not make it drink. Still, he added. “Come find me if you ever change your mind. We’ll always have a spot for you here.”
A makeup guru like her was high in demand everywhere. Perhaps the salary they could offer was not to her liking. The associate director planned to discuss with Mr. Wang later.
It only took Shen Xi a jiffy to paint the extras’ faces.
The associate director happily bobbed his head and took them to the set.
Wang Cai the director was bowled over but quickly tickled pink when the associate director led the group of beggars in. The makeup went well with the characters. He complimented the accompanying makeup artist. “Lil’ Liu, you did it this time. You’re getting better with your makeup.”
The makeup artist, Lil’ Liu glanced at Shen Xi before attempting to explain that it was not her work. Nevertheless, she did not get the chance to as the director hastily jumped straight to directing after giving the kudos.
Shen Xi’s eyes went right to Yu Yuanxi who was dressed in pale blue brocade, looking like the fine and poised gentleman that he was. He was definitely a man of all seasons.
The movie “Mirror” was about the motherland, depicting Great General Xue Chenhuan’s twisted fate. Despite falling into treacherous ploys, being second-guessed by the emperor, and being misconstrued by the people, he served and protected the nation and its people. Alas, he suffered a tragic end by losing and dying on the battlefield.
Feeling a pair of eyes on him, Yu Yuanxi returned a smile. He was plagued by a sense of uncertain familiarity from the little beggar. It was a weird feeling.
He recognized these extras who were hired and coached by Mr. Wang. Since it was the same bunch of people each time, Yu Yuanxi could identify their friendly faces even if they had not shared any conversations.
It was his first time seeing the skinny beggar in the middle who smiled at him. She must be new.
With all the extras and actors accounted for, it was time to start the shoot.
The martial art instructor recapped the moves and pain points to the extras. He even took the time to tell Shen Xi to do as the others and not to feel restricted in case she forgot the moves.
The temporary extra was a fan of Yu Yuanxi, dragged by the associate director to fill in the numbers, so she had not been through formal training. The martial art instructor could not afford the scene to blow up in his face and for the director to throw a tantrum at him.
The associate director and martial art instructor watched anxiously by the side when the extras got onto the set. They were fixated on Shen Xi, afraid she might feel Mr. Wang’s wrath for poor acting.
Mr. Wang did not hold back when running his mouth because he held himself to a high standard. The extras were replaced multiple times and this bunch pulled through the scolding and were the last ones standing.
If she was yelled at, they would be too since they were the ones who hired her. They would be given a dressing-down if they did not do a good job preparing her for the role.
The associate director was praying for Shen Xi to not f*ck up while waiting for a response from his assistant, whom he asked to look for the original extra as a backup.
°
°
°
Chapter 546: He Must be Blind
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
In an inn.
Xue Chenhuan suddenly lifted his downcast eyes and flung the winecup toward the door. Like an arrow against the wind, the winecup drove a fiery murderous intent.
Hit in the chest by the winecup, the little beggar kneeling by the door sprawled onto the ground.
The rest of the beggars were also on a stakeout. Having witnessed the attack on one of their own, they recklessly swarmed to fight Xue Chenhuan, thirsty for blood.
Out of all the panhandlers, the scrawniest figure drew the most attention, standing out for all the right reasons amid all the thrashing and beating. It only took a couple of martial art moves to show that the person had the chops.
Speaking of chops, this was not talking about the beggar’s kung fu in the script, but the actor’s own combat techniques. The scrawny beggar was none other than Shen Xi.
Only a pro had what it took. Her every execution was carried out smoothly and with perfection. It was clear that she was a martial artist.
The associate director and martial art instructor were dumbstruck. The girl was a bad*ss!
Due to time constraints and Mr. Wang breathing down their necks, the martial art instructor only taught her the moves once and left her to play by ear.
It never occurred to them that she would execute the steps with fluidity and flawlessness. Still, she managed without overshadowing or stealing the limelight from the main actors. Only a professional, such as the martial art instructor, could see that Shen Xi did not go all out in the fight. She deliberately spared the effort and paced herself.
Anyone with a background in martial arts could get into the rhythm of playing a series of moves, but it was a whole different story to reach her level of execution with both precision and ease. The martial art instructor himself dared not say he could do it.
The associate director’s eyes lit up. What had he stumbled upon? Not only was she great with makeup, but she was also good in fight scenes. She could reenact the martial art moves with perfection just by watching twice and rehearsing once. The girl was more than a genius!
Moreover, the girl was a natural when it came to acting. Pairing each gesture with ever-changing expressions, she was able to bring the character to life. Even Yu Yuanxi whom Mr. Wang called a talented actor would fall short.
It was as though she was born to act. She infused herself into the role and lived the part as though she was the character.
Unable to hold himself back, the associate director turned to Mr. Wang, the director. The expression on Mr. Wang’s face was much more caricatural. With sparkling eyes, he observed Shen Xi’s every move, completely losing sight of his favorite actor, Yu Yuanxi.
Wang Cai had taken notice of the little beggar’s moves. She fought with such grace without sticking out too much. It took great control to achieve that.
Following the first observation, he began to note more qualities and was unable to take his eyes away from her. The minute changes in her facial appearances during the fight were sublime. Yu Yuanxi had all the goods bestowed by God.
However, the girl was better than Yu Yuanxi.
She was not only acting on her own but also guiding and rallying the other actors to immerse into their roles with her performance.
These small touches would go unnoticed by the non-professionals. Yu Yuanxi might be the core and focal point, but he was not running the show.
It was hard to believe that the girl accomplished the task without stealing the show. She knew her place and role deeply, using this to her advantage to guide the script toward a more impeccable direction.
The scene was done in one take.
The staff members on set were overjoyed and dumbfounded at the same time. There had never been an instance of a single take before. They had to go through one scene multiple times as one minor mistake would call for a retake.
This was especially the case in scenes with extras or fighting scenes. It usually took up at least ten attempts before the actors got it right.
Stunned to learn their scene was over in a single take, the extras exchanged glances. They had not gotten a real sense of their performance. Sure, they were nervous in the beginning but started to let loose as the fight went on, delivering the punches with ease like something had suddenly clicked in them. The experience was beyond amazing for them.
Yu Yuanxi had a better idea of what was going on than the extras. He immediately looked at the little beggar played by Shen Xi. She was guiding them throughout the scene.
That was right.
She was the guiding spirit, showing him and the extras the way so they were able to bring out their fullest potential into the fight scene.
This person had much higher attainment in acting than he did. As to how high it was, Yu Yuanxi was not schooled enough to make a guess. The one thing he knew was that her attainment was unfathomable.
Wang Cai and the associate director drew near and stared at Shen Xi as they hit the mother lode. It was criminal and a waste of her talent if she did not go into acting.
The keen Wang Cai was one step ahead of the associate director as he enthusiastically looked at Shen Xi. “What’s your name? Are you one of our extras? What do you think about becoming an actor?”
Shen Xi replied, “No, thanks.”
She spoke in her natural voice.
The first to identify her voice was He Xiang who nearly cussed his brains out in shock. He searched everywhere for Lil’ Chairman Shen and, lo and behold, here she was as a beggar. He must be blind to fail in spotting her in a crowd.
Yu Yuanxi was taken aback at first, but a gentle smile broke across his face. He called out her name, “Xixi.”
Under the beggar’s disguise, she curled her lips to flash her pearly whites and waved. “I came with Mom to visit you on the set.”
Yu Yuanxi asked, “Is Mrs. Shen here too?”
Shen Xi nodded. “She went with the fans to get some drinks. We’re buying the production team bubble tea.”
“Why didn’t you let me know?” Yu Yuanxi glanced at He Xiang and asked.
He Xiang shrugged. He had no idea. Yes, he knew some fans were swinging by the set, but he only found out Lil’ Chairman Shen and her mom were among the fans when they arrived.
Wang Cai did not butt in as it was not his place to interrupt a conversation between a fan and their idol. While he decided to have his turn to talk once they were done, he turned to the associate director.
The associate director explained, “She’s a fan of Yu Yuanxi who helped out since we’re one person short on the extras.”
Sure, he dragged her into this, but he had no clue that she was a genius. With such talent, she should take up a career in acting.
Wang Cai was happy to see they were close because with Lil’ Yu being on good terms with her, it should not be an issue for Lil’ Yu to bridge his idea of getting her to act.
He found it hard to pass on a promising actor. Wang Cai might not have a role for her in this movie but there were many more in the next.
Moreover, it did not take a lot for people to know she was a prodigy in the acting world. Her amazing talent would not go amiss in showbiz.
As a director, Wang Cai had always gone after actors who met his requirements and expectations. Such was the case with Yu Yuanxi and Zhou Zhen. However, none had ever made him so eager to assign them a role and make them a star in his movie like this extra did.
The director made the actor and vice versa. This was the ultimate pursuit he was after.
Since Yu Yuanxi was done with his scene, he excused himself from Wang Cai and the associate director before taking Shen Xi with him.
Wang Cai stopped them. “Lil’ Yu, hold up.”
°
°
°
Chapter 547: Stop the Search, She’s the One
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Yu Yuanxi and Shen Xi stopped in their tracks.
Wang Cai cheerfully gazed at Shen Xi. “Young lady, you can really act. Are you an actress?”
He had never seen her before. No way would he overlook a talented actress like her in the entertainment industry. She would be a hit by now if she went into showbiz.
There could only be one reason – she had never acted despite having the whole package.
Lil’ Yu might have talents, but he needed guidance in the beginning. Unlike Lil’ Yu, the girl was born to act and needed no instructions.
Shen Xi shook her head. “No.”
Having gotten into the topic, Wang Cai could hardly suppress the excitement stirring in him. “I wonder if you’d be interested in acting?”
Shen Xi gave a flat-out refusal. “No.”
“Showbiz is where the money is. Please reconsider.” Wang Cai was feeling down in the dumps. There was no need to point out the profitability of the entertainment business because everyone had a ballpark of the kind of paychecks actors received. Enough said.
In a place like showbiz, wads of dollar bills would be raining down if people were able to get their name out there. Many dreamed of stepping into the land of glitz and glamor; an example of such people were the extras working in the film base every day.
Shen Xi grinned. “I’m not short of cash.”
Wang Cai choked on his words. What more could he say other than wearing her down? “It’s such a waste of your talent if you don’t go into acting. Truly, you are a great actress.”
Shen Xi replied, “I’m not interested.”
While she was firmly turning the director down, the nearby crew members and extras were gobsmacked. The extras, in particular, were astonished that there was actually somebody who did not want to go into showbiz nor make the money and be a hit.
Everyone built castles in the air, imagining themselves to be a diamond in the rough that was yet to be discovered. Every dog had its day and one day, someone would pick them out of the crowd, recognize their talent, and make them a star.
However, not everybody had such an opportunity as it was one in a million. The fantasy was not all impossible in the past, but it proved a difficult feat in the current climate.
Yet now, Mr. Wang was telling the fangirl what the extras had always wanted to hear. To their surprise, she rejected this once-in-a-lifetime offer with ease.
That was right.
It was apparent to them that the fan could not care less about the money and fame Mr. Wang was talking about. Her detachment seemed to exude straight from her very core.
“Call me if you ever come around.” Wang Cai may say so, but he was not going to throw in the towel just yet. He should not be all over her face if he was trying to win her over as it would only do more harm than good if he p*ssed her off.
Time was on his side. Since she was Lil’ Yu’s fan, Wang Cai could slowly sell her on the idea through Lil’ Yu. This was the best way to go about it.
Shen Xi had no intentions of going into showbiz. Otherwise, she would already be there and not wait until now. As the founder of Cosmos Entertainment, she had more insight than anyone else about what Wang Cai was saying.
As he watched Shen Xi take off with Yu Yuanxi, Wang Cai made up his mind to make Shen Xi reweigh her options. If showbiz was not her thing, she could simply focus on acting and become a real actress.
It was no longer as straightforward with actors nowadays. Many of them were mediocre in the art of acting, but they packaged themselves well and had money as well as the fans’ support to back them up. They were still sought for movie roles even if they were sh*t.
This was particularly true in the TV series circle. It was a pity that the quality of the actors and TV series was going downhill right to the dumps.
This phenomenon would only worsen with the injection of money and the rise of fan management. Down-to-earth actors who were not into promoting themselves had become rare finds.
As for her indifference, Wang Cai refused to believe that anybody would be so unaroused by fame, power, and money. There must be some sort of incentive to draw her in. Maybe she would realize her love for acting and choose to become an actress once she started the shoot.
With Shen Xi leaving alongside Yu Yuanxi, He Xiang the manager respectfully tagged along behind them.
Yun Jinping returned with the group of fans bearing bubble tea when she heard from one of the crew that Shen Xi was called by the director to work as an extra. Watching Yu Yuanxi approaching with a little beggar, she recognized instantly that the beggar was her darling daughter. “Xixi.”
Shen Xi smiled at her as she jogged over and gave a twirl in between. She asked, “Mom, what do you think of my makeup?”
Yun Jinping nodded happily. “Looks great. I bet your dad won’t be able to tell that it’s you if you went home looking like that.”
Shen Xi took it seriously. “The clothes belong to the production team. I can’t wear this back.”
Yun Jinping enjoyed a chuckle and handed both Shen Xi and Yu Yuanxi a bubble tea each. “Lil’ Yu, is it a lot of work?”
Yu Yuanxi grabbed the beverage and grinned at her. “No.”
Yun Jinping carefully eyed Yu Yuanxi. The young man was handsome, to begin with, but the pale blue brocade brought out his cavalry and charm.
She was caught in the moment of a daze when he smiled. It was like looking at her husband during their youth when they had their wedding photos taken.
Her husband should be wearing red for the wedding photoshoot, but he went to find himself a blue brocade to put on.
His appearance and build were similar to the young man before her eyes. The only difference was the young man was more good-looking and refined than her husband.
After sharing a word, Yun Jinping accompanied Shen Xi for makeup removal and a change of clothes. She could not be going around in a beggar outfit!
The other fans immediately flocked at the emergence of their idol. They chatted and asked for autographs and photos. One of the perks of liking an idol who had not made it big was that the idol was unassuming and friendly enough to engage in some one-on-one time.
This was a luxury and would only come by at a time as such. The opportunity would not present itself when the idol hit it big. It was not to say he would change, but rather he would not be able to attend to every single fan once his fan base grew.
Yu Yuanxi greeted them warmly and welcomed all requests for photos and autographs. As a rookie, he knew where he stood, and he was content to have fans like them.
“Mr. Yu, we have gotten into a bit of a situation with Ms. Xia. She’s still on makeup, so Mr. Wang’s bringing forward your scene to shoot first. You should head there now.” The assistant director came over.
Yu Yuanxi looked abashed at his fans. “Are you leaving now? If you’re not in a hurry, let me treat you to dinner once the shoot is over.”
He then looked to Yun Jinping and Shen Xi, who had returned from freshening up and a change of clothes, to inquire about the same.
The fans were in no rush since they were planning to spend the night here before leaving first thing in the morning. Ecstatic by the invitation, they bobbed their heads in agreement.
Yun Jinping nodded with a smile. She was good with anything as long as it did not interfere with his shoot. She came here to check on him anyway.
Yu Yuanxi broke into a smile. “Don’t just wait up for me. Explore the place. There are many ongoing shoots and renowned actors here.”
The fans shook their heads in unison. They did not care for other celebrities because they were here only for him and to see him. After giving their word to the associate director about keeping mum about the shoot, they were allowed to watch Yu Yuanxi at work.
Holding Yun Jinping by the arm, Shen Xi tailed behind Yu Yuanxi.
On set, Wang Cai was on another rampage. With the shoot about to begin, they were missing an important extra who was still nowhere to be found. Wang Cai looked around the room and his eyes lit up when he spotted Shen Xi with Yun Jinping. He pointed at her and said, “Stop the search, she’s the one.”
The girl was a true feast to the eyes with beauty matching an unworldly angel. The role of Ling Yao was made for her.
The associate wanted to say something but did not have the heart to break the news to the already boiling Wang Cai. ‘Open your eyes, Mr. Wang. She’s the little beggar from earlier!’
°
°
°
Chapter 548: Su Yi’s Illegitimate Daughter
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Shen Xi, “…”
She was here to visit the set, not be an extra!
Yun Jinping was without a word.
Wang Cai had spoken and made a call. “You must be a fan of Lil’ Yu. Could you lend a hand? It’s a simple scene with two lines. I can teach you.”
Usually, a fan would not refuse to do a scene and run lines with their idol.
Before Shen Xi could say anything, a voice was heard within distance.
“Mr. Wang!”
The person was none other than Zhou Zhen. She was looking to mess with the girl after the latter got on her nerves. Alas, Zhou Zhen was called away by the makeup artist.
The second supporting role that Zhou Zhen played was a princess of the steppe nomads. Beautiful but violent, the character was smitten by the male lead, Xue Chenhuan, at first sight.
The red little number she had on showed off her curves, taking the people’s breath away. They were mind-blown but it would be better if she did not speak.
Yun Jinping turned to the source of noise. The girl may be dressed rather dazzling and mature, but Yun Jinping could tell from her collagen-plump face that she was probably around the age of her daughter.
Moreover, the girl’s appearance looked awfully familiar. Come to think of it, a realization hit Yun Jinping in the face.
Su Yi!
It dawned on her that the girl shared resemblance to Su Yi!
Su Yi was an actor, a famous movie star from their era. While Yun Jinping was not into idolizing stars during her younger days, she had watched a few of Su Yi’s movies and TV shows. Hence, she was familiar with Su Yi’s appearance.
With Yun Jinping fixated on her, Shen Xi thought the former was inquiring about the shoot. Shen Xi said, “Mom, I’m not doing the scene.”
Yun Jinping did not intend to ask her anything but was simply looking at her. Xixi looked very much like Li Jingran and had a DNA test to prove. She never doubted that Shen Xi was not Li Jingran and Su Yi’s biological daughter.
She would be getting way ahead of herself if this girl turned out to have no relations to the Su family. On the other hand, if Yun Jinping’s guess was right, the girl might be Su Yi’s illegitimate daughter.
Coming from an entertainment background, Su Yi got together with Li Jingran for his second marriage. His ex-wife was the mother of Yuan Yu, Xixi’s brother. The Su couple was actually an indirect cause of his ex-wife’s death. It was no surprise for a person of Su Yi’s character to have an illegitimate daughter somewhere out there.
Zhou Zhen made her way over and gave Shen Xi a dirty look before acting cute in front of Wang Cai. “Wait a minute, Mr. Wang. The extra is my girlfriend and a good friend. She’s not late on purpose. It’s not like she can control traffic.”
The fuss kicked up by Zhou Zhen made Wang Cai red in the face. With that attitude of hers, people would think there was some shady business going on between them. God knew he merely held talents in high esteem and had no interest in her in that way. Pulling a straight face, Wang Cai chided, “Cut it out.”
Zhou Zhen knew her stuff and was actress material. Putting aside her eccentric behavior, she was able to get into character well. She had a bright acting future ahead of her on the condition that she changed her promiscuous ways and stopped trying to get into people’s pants.
“Just give it a little bit more time, Mr. Wang. Let the others get on with other scenes first.” Zhou Zhen threw Shen Xi a smug and defiant look.
Ha! So long as Zhou Zhen was around, there was no chance she was going to let Shen Xi be a part of the movie. This was payback!
°
°
°
Chapter 549: Take Those Clothes Off
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
“What time is her scene?” Wang Cai asked Zhou Zhen.
Since Zhou Zhen had no idea about that, she chuckled and brought on her charm. “Mr. Wang, just a little longer. She will be here soon. Can you overlook this for my sake?”
She wanted everyone to know that she was Mr. Wang’s favorite, and he would bend the knee to whatever she said.
“Ask your friend.” Wang Cai started grimacing.
Still not able to read the room, Zhou Zhen called her friend to get some answers before turning to the director and saying, “She said it’s at half-past two, but she’s right at the entrance now. She’ll be here in a bit.”
With that, Zhou Zhen gave Shen Xi an aggravating look, expressing to the latter to buzz off now that her girl was here.
“Get out. Tell your friend not to come.” Wang Cai then instructed the makeup artist to style Shen Xi without even getting her consent.
“Mr. Wang.” Zhou Zhen cried while stomping her foot. Anxious, she came in his way. “She’s already at the entrance and will be here soon. Just give her two minutes.”
Refusing to give her the time of day, Wang Cai walked around her and had the lighting team, props team, and cameramen perform last checks before they got the reel rolling.
The associate director cleared his throat as a hint of jubilance flickered in his eyes. Sure, Mr. Wang appreciated good talent but only to a certain extent.
Mr. Wang’s biggest pet peeve was tardiness. A draconian when it came to punctuality, he was never late and demanded the same from others, especially those working under him. He would not budge on his principles even if the king begged him, let alone Zhou Zhen.
The crew, actors, and extras on-site were thrilled that Zhou Zhen had to s*ck it. They were hoping for the day Zhou Zhen would fall from grace after the cocky and defiant attitude she pulled on everyone.
Despite Zhou Zhen’s efforts to beg, borrow, or steal, Wang Cai did not budge. Blowing her top, Zhou Zhen dashed to the dressing room and uttered in spite, “So you’re not going to change your mind, huh? You can’t use that woman either!”
The associate director immediately called Wang Cai’s attention as Zhou Zhen crashed into the dressing room. It was not like the associate director could do anything since he could not afford the consequences of rubbing Mr. Wang’s golden girl the wrong way.
However, he was also afraid that something bad might happen. The young girl was only a fan here to see her idol and did nothing wrong while Zhou Zhen was the one stirring sh*t out of nothing.
Shen Xi was up for the task, thinking of it as helping Yu Yuanxi to impress the director. She went along for hair and makeup.
She just had a change of wardrobe when Zhou Zhen barged into the dressing room and arrogantly pointed at her. “Don’t you dare steal the part! Take off those clothes!”
Shen Xi gazed at the madwoman and curled a taunting smile. “It’s the director you need to talk to.”
“Mr. Wang promised the role to my friend.” Rage flushed Zhou Zhen’s complexion as she darted a stern glare at Shen Xi. She was ready to get up there and rip the clothes off of Shen Xi.
Yu Yuanxi suddenly came in between them. While staring down at the woman, a solemn and somber expression made a mark on his usually gentle face for once. Even his voice was chilly. “Zhou Zhen, you’re going too far. The role was assigned by Mr. Wang. Go speak to him if you have a problem with it.”
°
°
°
Chapter 550: What Would It Make of Her?
Translator: EndlessFantasy
Editor: EndlessFantasy
🔹
🔹
Yu Yuanxi never carried hard feelings for anyone, but the person before his eyes challenged his perception of people, showing him that evil did exist in the world.
“Get lost, Yu Yuanxi!” Zhou Zhen exclaimed in rage before darting Shen Xi the evil eye. “The role is my friend’s. She’s about to arrive so take off those clothes!”
Who did the girl think she was? Zhou Zhen put in a lot of time and effort to get the role from the director, yet the girl managed to snatch it right out of her hands just like that.
Zhou Zhen got the role for her best friend, and it was one with a few good lines. How was she supposed to explain to her bestie that she no longer had the part? What would it make of her?
“I’m sorry, but you should tell your friend to go home.” Shen Xi was well-versed in dealing with different kinds of people and the best approach for a nitwit was facing them head-on.
Well, since Zhou Zhen was desperate for the role, Shen Xi was surely not letting go of the role now!
“You… You… B*tch!” With anger brewing within, Zhou Zhen could blow up in the face of Shen Xi’s silent taunt that implied Zhou Zhen had nothing on her.
Since Yu Yuanxi was standing in between them, Zhou Zhen could not find an opening to attack Shen Xi. She was left to watch as the makeup artist painted the face of the girl sitting arrogantly in front of the vanity mirror.
Wang Cai arrived on the scene to Zhou Zhen still kicking up a fuss. He turned ashen in the face. “Shut up if you still want to be on the set. You’re welcome to leave if you don’t want to be part of the production.”
There was a limit to his patience. He would usually put up with her misbehavior as long as she kept her hands off of his shoot. Zhou Zhen was free to work on her people skills and networking.
Ultimately, she had no say in butting in the filming process.
“Mr. Wang!”
Unyielding, Wang Cai gave her the tough talk. “This is not up for discussion. Go and get ready for your next scene.”
Zhou Zhen might be despotic and haughty, but she was not stupid. She would push Wang Cai’s limits without going too far.
She did not hold back on bullying crew members and bossing the extras around simply because Wang Cai let her be. However, Zhou Zhen would rein in her bad behavior when Wang Cai was as little as frowned.
By the looks of Wang Cai now, Zhou Zhen knew that nothing she said could change his mind. Hence, she had no choice but to give up disgruntledly. Still, it did not stop Zhou Zhen from hating Shen Xi and tearing her apart figuratively.
What was she supposed to tell her girlfriend now? She told her bestie that she was the director’s favorite and that the director would hand her a role with a couple of lines at the snap of her finger.
Only God knows Wang Cai was obnoxiously strict when it came to filming. She worked for two months before getting her hands on the cameo role with a few lines.
Rather than leaving or harping on about it, Zhou Zhen sat quietly in a corner to watch. She wanted to see what the girl, who embarrassed her twice, was trying to pull!
Someone informed her earlier that the girl was a fan of Yu Yuanxi. That must be a cover for the girl’s true intention, which was getting Yu Yuanxi to pull some strings for her to go into showbiz!
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
To Be Continued..
🗣️ : If you find any errors, i'm are very sorry for the inconvenience. I hope you can enjoy the story with ease. Please do not vote this story. Please let me know or tag admin in comments if you have any questions so i can respond to it as soon as possible.
Thank you for reading 💕✨ - Admin Nyx