Chapter 33

Chapter 33

After getting his special makeup done, Ning Yuyi sat idly, scrolling through his phone.

The screen prominently displayed the WeChat chat interface.

——I'm done with makeup and will start soon.

——Bro, which side of the audience are you on? I'll try to spot you.

"Who are you chatting with?" Zhou Er returned with a cup of warm water, offering it to Ning Yuyi to soothe his throat.

"Fan Zhongchuan," Ning Yuyi replied candidly. "He's here today to watch my performance."

"Wait, Fan Zhongchuan is here to see you perform?"

Zhou Er looked puzzled, wondering how his artist became so close to Fan Zhongchuan.

——Section A, third row, center.

After receiving Fan Zhongchuan's reply, Ning Yuyi put away his phone, preparing for his performance.

After stargazing the previous night, Fan Zhongchuan inquired about Ning Yuyi's schedule for the next day and mentioned he'd be in the audience to watch Ning's performance.

Strictly speaking, it would also be Ning Yuyi's television debut.

Even if it's just a competition-based variety show.

"I'll head over to get ready." Unaware of his manager's mixed feelings at the moment, Ning Yuyi grabbed his performance props and headed backstage.

The other four were already prepping backstage.

Seeing Ning Yuyi approach, He Xiaoxiao was the first to greet him: "Ah Yi, you're here."

Ning Yuyi responded with a simple "Hmm" and found an empty seat to sit down.

"Let's run through it one more time," proposed Qi Ting, the woman with straight hair, signaling the group to rehearse once more.

Ning Yuyi promptly rose to her feet, positioning herself for her scene. But she waited quite a while before hearing the reluctant first line from the woman with short hair.

"Ji Xiaoning," Qi Ting said with a steely face.

"Qi, don’t be mad," He Xiaoxiao quickly tried to diffuse the situation, "Maybe Xiaoning just isn't feeling her best."

"Who's not feeling their best?" Ji Xiaoning had been simmering since she missed out on the role of "Young Aunt." To make matters worse, earlier today her agent had berated her for not securing a more prestigious role.

Ji Xiaoning angrily threw down her script, "There's no camera here, so I won't pretend anymore. Why shouldn't I be upset about not wanting to play this character?"

"Both of you, one of you took the role of the older aunt, and the other the young aunt, leaving me with a mere maid's role. Who are you trying to fool?"

Qi Ting laughed in disbelief, "I remember letting both of you choose first. I only took the role of the older aunt after no one else wanted it. And now you're blaming us because you couldn't outperform He Xiaoxiao?"

Qi Ting forcefully pushed Ji Xiaoning by the shoulder, "Ji Xiaoning, I've never met anyone as hypocritical as you."

Ning Yuyi never thought things would escalate this way and quietly remarked, "I think we're about to start."

"Let it start! I'm not acting anymore," Ji Xiaoning snapped, glaring maliciously at Qi Ting, "I'm trending right now, unlike some unknown newbies or washed-up old actresses. I don't need this show."

With that, she managed to offend both He Xiaoxiao and Qi Ting.

He Xiaoxiao's face turned a shade of green, and she didn't step in to mediate.

The male lead, playing a young master, was a recent talent show recruit, about Ning Yuyi's age. He chose to act oblivious to the situation.

Ning Yuyi reminded them, "You've all signed contracts with the director. If you back out now, you'll have to pay a penalty."

“……”

“……”

“……”

Ji Xiaoning had only gained minor fame from a low-budget web drama. She didn’t have much in savings, but now she was in too deep to backtrack, her face turning bright red with frustration.

"Why don’t we modify the script a bit? The production team hasn't forbidden us from making changes."

Ning Yuyi's suggestion was essentially throwing Ji Xiaoning a lifeline.

Fortunately, Ji Xiaoning was astute enough to seize the opportunity, "Then, before we begin, I'd like to make some changes to my character."

While Qi Ting and He Xiaoxiao were still annoyed, the exposure from this show was too precious for them to pass up. After hesitating for a few seconds, they agreed to Ji Xiaoning's request.

Time was tight, and Ji Xiaoning could only add so much. She added a highlight scene for herself and then hurriedly got on stage for the actual performance.

Luckily, having acted for a year, Ji Xiaoning, despite not rehearsing the modified scenes, managed to perform admirably in front of the director-judges.

After the crew yelled "Cut!", Ning Yuyi climbed up from the prop-built ground, wiping away the faux blood made from tomato juice from the corner of his mouth.

Its sweet and tangy taste reminded him of something; Ning Yuyi decided to have scrambled eggs with tomatoes for dinner.

The directors provided feedback one by one, mostly formal and largely praising Qi Ting, He Xiaoxiao, and Ning Yuyi. Even Ji Xiaoning's added scene as the maid received praise from one director.

After everyone had given their critiques, only the most prestigious national-level director remained.

Yu Lei picked up the microphone but didn't speak, simply giving Ning Yuyi a profound look.

"You brought the character of the young master to life," Yu Lei, with his white beard twitching, remarked, "You are, without doubt, my favorite actor since this show began."

Caught off guard by such high praise from Yu Lei, Ning Yuyi humbly bowed in gratitude.

"No need for modesty; it's a testament to your talent," Yu Lei mused, "I hope you go far in your acting career."

"Thank you!" Ning Yuyi expressed his gratitude once again.

Every director had commented, but none had mentioned the boy band member playing the elder master, making him awkwardly stand out among the five.

However, without any comments, the production team would struggle to edit the show. The assistant director discreetly approached the judging panel, urging them to provide at least some feedback.

After the assistant director's gentle persuasion, two directors reluctantly gave brief feedback, quickly dropping the microphone afterward.

It was as if they had "Forced to Comment" written across their faces.

Seizing a moment when the camera was not on him, Ning Yuyi stealthily glanced into the audience, immediately spotting Fan Zhongchuan sitting centrally.

Seeing Fan Zhongchuan filled Ning Yuyi with contentment.

After reshooting a few scenes that hadn't gone well, Ning Yuyi was finally able to remove his makeup.

"Finally, it's over," he sighed with relief, laying his head down on the table after removing his makeup.

"First, drink some water," Zhou Erhe handed him a lukewarm bottle, "Heard there was some drama before you went on stage?"

"Mm, Qi Ting and Ji Xiaoning had an argument," Ning Yuyi replied leisurely while sipping.

"Over the roles?"

"Yes."

"The production team will surely capitalize on that footage," Zhou Erhe, well-acquainted with variety show directors, remarked. Variety shows aren't like dramas; mere good content won't suffice. They need highlights. Today's altercation between Qi Ting and Ji Xiaoning, especially with Ji Xiaoning's current popularity, was undoubtedly a significant highlight. The director wouldn't overlook that.

"There were no cameras there," Ning Yuyi assured, having surveyed the surroundings during their spat.

"You're still naive," Zhou Erhe shook his head, "The directors can overlay the argument audio over a wide shot and edit seamlessly. The viewers won't notice."

"That's why you should always be cautious when filming variety shows. These directors can be ruthless," Zhou Erhe had seen many celebrities face backlash due to biased editing. Some managed to bounce back, while others faded from the spotlight.

If Ning Yuyi weren't so popular, the production team might even edit Yu Lei's praise for Ning Yuyi and attribute it to the boy band member instead.

That boy band member happens to be the rising star promoted by Ice and Fire Entertainment.

Fortunately, with Ning Yuyi backed by Fenghua Entertainment, the production team wouldn't dare lay a finger on him.

"Let's go. To celebrate the smooth shooting, let's have a feast," Zhou Erhe said as he packed his thermos and other items into his backpack, and followed Ning Yuyi out.

Exiting the show's recording tent, Zhou Erhe realized they were headed in an unfamiliar direction.

"Hey, are we going the wrong way?" Zhou Erhe tried to hold Ning Yuyi back.

"No, we're heading up front," Ning Yuyi replied without slowing down, "We're meeting Fan Zhongchuan up there."

"You're inviting him for dinner?" Zhou Erhe scratched his ear, wondering if he'd heard right.

"Of course, he's already made the reservation. Plus, you get to save on dinner tonight."

Arriving at the parking lot, Ning Yuyi quickly spotted Fan Zhongchuan's car amidst a sea of others. He approached and knocked on its window.

As the window rolled down, Ning Yuyi opened the passenger door and slid in. Turning his head, he found Zhou Erhe standing outside, lost in thought.

"Zhou, Zhou," Ning Yuyi called out, "Get in."

"Oh, right," Zhou Erhe responded, finally snapping back to reality, and climbed into the back seat.

Watching from behind as his artist chatted casually with Fan Zhongchuan, Zhou Erhe was amazed. Fan Zhongchuan, a big shot whose time was practically priceless, showed not a hint of impatience and even engaged in the conversation.

In that moment, all of Zhou Erhe's doubts vanished.

A single thought dominated his mind:

— My artist is about to be whisked away by someone else.

Arriving at the restaurant, they were escorted to a private room after confirming their reservation. After leaving the menu, the staff waited outside.

Ning Yuyi quickly marked down scrambled eggs with tomatoes, made a few more selections, and then closed the menu, waiting for Fan Zhongchuan and Zhou Erhe to decide.

Zhou Erhe's mind wasn't on the menu; he was contemplating how to alert Ning Yuyi about Fan Zhongchuan's intentions.

After placing their orders, a server poured them each a glass of lemon water before departing.

Trying to broach the topic delicately, Zhou Erhe asked, "Ning Yuyi, what are your thoughts on men marrying men?"

Although Huaguo had passed laws allowing same-sex marriage five years prior, male-to-male marriages still represented a tiny fraction.

However, there were several couples within the entertainment industry.

Ning Yuyi, who was savoring his honey-infused lemon water, was taken aback by the sudden question and tilted his head in thought.

He couldn't fathom why Zhou Erhe posed such a question out of the blue but was reminded of an encounter with the PR department head at the company elevator.

A moment of realization flashed in Ning Yuyi's eyes.

"Ah, are you worried I might be opposed to same-sex relationships? Relax, I'm only teasing you and that other guy," Ning Yuyi chuckled.

Him and who?

Him and which guy?

Zhou Erhe was utterly baffled by Ning Yuyi's words.

"It's the PR department head," Ning Yuyi said, a sweet aftertaste lingering from the honeyed lemon water. "I overheard his call to you when I was bringing you food that day. I'll support you, especially since we're so close."

Him and the PR head?

Zhou Erhe felt like he was deflating, caught between wanting to question Ning Yuyi's knowledge or redirecting the conversation.

But before he could say anything, a glance from Fan Zhongchuan made him freeze, pinned to his chair.

He didn't dare move an inch.

After silently warning Zhou Erhe, Fan Zhongchuan resumed watching Ning Yuyi.

Being so easily pleased by a simple lemon drink, he thought, Ning Yuyi was so easy to appease.

During dinner, Zhou Erhe didn't dare mention the topic in front of Fan Zhongchuan, although he was internally frantic.

Ning Yuyi even mistook his agitation for a need to use the restroom, asking twice if he needed to go.

After dinner, Zhou Erhe planned to take a taxi with Ning Yuyi, preventing Fan Zhongchuan from having any opportunities.

But before he could suggest it, he saw Ning Yuyi eagerly hopping into Fan Zhongchuan's car.

Zhou Erhe: "..."

Left with no choice, Zhou Erhe hailed a taxi back to the office alone.

Settling into the leather seat, Ning Yuyi buckled up, gazing out the window and humming a current hit song.

"Ningning, I want to take you somewhere," Fan Zhongchuan began, not immediately driving but setting a premise.

"Where to?" Ning Yuyi asked with curiosity.

With a mysterious smile, Fan Zhongchuan chose not to reveal the destination just yet.

He stepped on the accelerator, making a U-turn and driving south.

Thirty minutes later, Ning Yuyi realized they were on the freeway.

"Why are we on the freeway?" Ning Yuyi tried to lower the window, only to have the wind from the high-speed travel mess up his face. He quickly rolled it up.

Fan Zhongchuan, with a calm tone, asked, "Would you like to visit an orphanage?"

Ning Yuyi paused briefly, lowering his gaze.

He gave a slow nod.

"It has been renovated over there, and some teachers have been hired," Fan Zhongchuan glanced at Ning Yuyi and caught a glimpse of his soft hair as he tilted his head down.

He felt an urge to touch it.

Unfortunately, he was driving.

Although Fan Zhongchuan had mentioned the orphanage being renovated, it wasn't until Ning Yuyi arrived at its entrance that he realized it was more than just a simple makeover.

It was as if the place had been completely rebuilt.

"Due to the urgent needs of the many children, all eco-friendly, formaldehyde-free materials were used," Fan Zhongchuan noted Ning Yuyi's astonished expression, "Are you pleased?"

Ning Yuyi realized Fan Zhongchuan was referring to his unstable mood from the night before.

"There's more expansion underway, but it should take a little over a month," Fan Zhongchuan took on the role of a guide, "The front has been renovated into a kindergarten, and that building is now for preschool and the first three grades of elementary."

"After the third grade, the government will assist them in joining a regular elementary school."

Ning Yuyi toured the place and came out somewhat dazed.

"When did the construction start?" Ning Yuyi, looking up, tugged at Fan Zhongchuan's sleeve, "Thank you so much."

Fan Zhongchuan ruffled his hair, satisfying a desire he had while in the car.

Fan Zhongchuan had begun renovating the orphanage even before Ning Yuyi finished his filming with the sword-fighting drama crew. Later, the Xie family also got involved, and their combined financial and manpower resources expedited the surprise for Ning Yuyi.

But the timing was just right.

Recalling Ning Yuyi's unsettled mood from the night before, Fan Zhongchuan's emotions were mixed.

"There's also a piano room at the back, but it's not yet ready and hasn't been opened. Would you like to see it?"

"Yes!"

As they entered the piano room, Ning Yuyi's playful nature emerged. He eagerly sat at the piano, wanting yet hesitant to play, fearing he might strike a discordant note.

Fan Zhongchuan moved behind him and gently took his hands.

"Like this."

Saying so, Fan Zhongchuan guided Ning Yuyi's hands over the keys, producing a flowing melody.

"Brother, you can play the piano!" Ning Yuyi excitedly tried to recreate the tune, his eyes wide with wonder.

"Yes, I learned," Fan Zhongchuan had acquired many skills growing up, and piano was a compulsory lesson among the elite families he belonged to.

And then, in his excitement, Ning Yuyi offered his place: "Brother, why don't you play a song for me?"

The lines of Fan Zhongchuan's face softened a touch.

Ah, such a little charmer.

Placing his hands on the piano keys, Fan Zhongchuan revisited memories that had long lain dormant.

Beautiful melodies gently flowed from the strings, and Ning Yuyi closed his eyes, immersing himself in the music.

Until the piece concluded, Ning Yuyi was left wanting more.

Outside, night had already fallen. The two had dinner with the children at the orphanage before driving back to Qing'an.

That night, Ning Yuyi posted a photo of the piano corner on his Weibo account.

Ning Yuyi V: Such a joyous day. Grateful to my friend~

Having set Ning Yuyi as a priority on Weibo, Fan Zhongchuan saw the post immediately.

He then liked Ning Yuyi's post.

Thankfully, since Fan Zhongchuan started following Ning Yuyi, such simple interactions no longer triggered much discussion among netizens.

After scrolling through Weibo, Ning Yuyi went to sleep with a light heart.

Time quietly moved on, and tomorrow would be just as wonderful.

Author's Note: Today was the piano-playing Mr. Fan~

Promoting my friend's sweet story~ Guaranteed to be a delight.

"Everyone Is Vying to Pamper Me" by Zhe Mei Yuan Shan.

Shen Yuanjia woke up from a deep slumber to find the world transformed. The unfamiliar surroundings scared him into meowing: I have to rely on my brothers now QAQ!

The media recently expressed great intrigue—

The business mogul CEO attended a charity gala with a gorgeous young boy, showing unparalleled attention and care.

The usually elusive mega-celebrity started mentoring the junior, showering him with warmth and affection.

The hot-tempered esports superstar openly played doubles with the boy on a live stream, treating him with extraordinary patience and tenderness.

Even the mysterious and inscrutable Mr. He of A-city seemed particularly fond of the young boy.

Everyone wondered: Hey! Who's this enchanting fox?

Mr. He looked at the boy with cat ears and tail, his gaze deep: Not a fox at all, but a sweet, coquettish little kitten.

Business mogul, mega-celebrity, esports superstar: ? This old man is eyeing our precious one!?

Shen Yuanjia: OwO Mew?