Two weeks later.

When Shen XingSui first learned that Fu JinXiao would be part of "Lonely City," he was utterly astonished, even incredulous.

So, when he received a call from Wang MeiCan, he even rubbed his eyes, wondering if he was dreaming. That was until Wang MeiCan repeated, "The contract has been signed."

Shen XingSui, in disbelief, asked, "Why would Master Fu join this production?"

At least in his view, although he didn't belittle his own production, it certainly couldn't compare to the large-scale productions Fu, the movie emperor, would typically be involved in.

Wang Mei Can sighed helplessly, "Star, although your production team is indeed small-scale, if Jin Xie were to produce, it would elevate the entire project."

If the film carries the reputation of an esteemed actor, its production value must rise accordingly.

As for Fu Jin Xie himself, he's not the kind to join for a quick buck or to gain fans. Investing in the production became inevitable. Your team may be financially tight, but with Shen's investment and now Fu's, the film’s budget has successfully reached over a hundred million.

Shen Xing Sui had a realization, "Did Master Fu join... because of me?"

"You might have to ask Master Fu that yourself," Wang Mei Can chuckled. "But, don’t worry about him taking a loss. When have you ever seen Fu Jin Xie making an unprofitable deal? Relax, he’ll get a good cut from the box office revenue."

Shen Xing Sui laughed, "That's true."

When has Fu Jin Xie ever been at a real disadvantage? Worrying for Master Fu was misplaced.

However, the fact that a low-budget film had Master Fu's participation surprised Shen Xing Sui. So when he met Fu Jin Xie on set, his feelings were complex.

Zhang San San, always eager to please, set up a luxurious resting room for Fu Jin Xie after hearing of his potential return. It was more lavish than what even the director might enjoy.

Fu Jin Xie stepped forward, looking down at his lover and smiled, "Are you unhappy to see me?"

Shen Xing Sui snapped out of his daze and rushed into Fu Jin Xie's arms, "Happy."

Genuinely happy.

Nothing else mattered. Filming together meant they wouldn't be separated for a long time.

"It’s just unexpected," Shen Xing Sui admitted. "I didn’t think you’d join my team given its modest size and theme."

Fu Jin Xie chuckled softly.

Shen Xing Sui looked at him inquisitively.

Settling on a nearby couch, Fu Jin Xie asked, "Why did you accept this film?"

"I recall when you took on this project, its budget wasn’t just small... it was almost nonexistent. Yet, you've gained some fame over the years. Who would've guessed you'd take this script?"

Shen Xing Sui explained, "I felt the script and story were promising. I didn’t want to miss out on a good narrative…"

A satisfied smile curled at the corner of Fu Jin Xie’s mouth, "Isn't that all there is to it?"

Shen Xing Sui paused, realizing what Fu Jin Xie meant. They were actors, living for good stories. Not all actors aim for blockbuster productions. Some, like them, acted for the passion of the narrative. They complemented the stories they told.

Looking at Fu Jin Xie, Shen Xing Sui remembered the days when he wasn't this famous, when he didn't lean on his family's name for big-budget films. Instead, he meticulously worked in low-budget films. It wasn’t the movies that made him, but rather he who elevated the movies. His diligence, perseverance, and resilience were what attracted Shen Xing Sui.

A lot of things, Shen Xing Sui felt, were inspired by Fu Jin Xie's spirit, shaping his understanding of who he wanted to become.

Pulling out of his memories, Shen Xing Sui smiled, "You haven't changed at all."

Fu Jin Xie looked at Shen Xing Sui, his face inscrutable, then smiled, "No, I have changed."

Shen Xing Sui was taken aback.

Yet Fu Jinxiao reached out his long arm, pulling the person closer to himself. Gazing intently at Shen Xingsui, he spoke with a hint of depth and seriousness, "It was you who brought him back."

From the very first time he saw Shen Xingsui, he felt an unusual sensation.

That concealed stubbornness, that despair in adversity, the relief after acceptance, and the choices he made when faced with countless situations – they all felt familiar to him. The entertainment industry has a way of numbing people, especially when you rise to his level. Power and money are the greatest numbing agents, and he had started to feel some fatigue and monotony.

The arrival of Shen Xingsui was like a small pebble causing ripples in a stagnant pond.

Shen Xingsui stammered, "Me... I?"

"Yes," Fu Jinxiao nodded, letting his slightly rough fingertip glide over Shen Xingsui’s soft skin, whispering, "This film is pretty good. Being new to the industry, your debut will naturally attract attention. If it's well-received, it will serve as your ticket into the movie world, so it cannot fail."

A hint of tenderness filled Fu Jinxiao's deep eyes as he softly said, "Let me guide you and pave the way for you."

Shen Xingsui felt touched deep inside, but seeing the rare serious expression on Fu Jinxiao's face, he couldn't shake off an ominous premonition. It felt as if Fu was giving his final piece of advice, implying that the road ahead would be Shen's to walk alone.

...

the next day

Today they were filming the final scene of the separation between him and the young Xu Yan.

A major incident occurred in Fang Zhiwen's home, but he and Xu Yan were trapped in an old temple outside the school due to a task. Taking shelter from the rain, Fang Zhiwen kindled a large fire for warmth. As Xu Yan, drenched and feverish, drifted off to sleep, Fang Zhiwen whispered his affection under the veil of rain, sealing it with a stolen kiss.

Outside, a water truck had been hired, and the dilapidated temple was a temporary prop shack. Director Zhang Sansan explained to him, "This monologue is crucial. Your feelings for Xu Yan are intense yet restrained, but it's that uncontrolled emotion you must convey. Understand?"

Shen Xingsui nodded, "I'll do my best."

"As for the kiss," Zhang Sansan cleared his throat, "No need for camera tricks. Just kiss his lips. Is that okay?"

Not far away, Jiang Chao cast a glance in their direction.

For reasons unknown, ever since that incident in the rest room, Shen Xingsui felt Jiang Chao had been avoiding him. This wasn't just his imagination. Could it be the awkwardness of what transpired that made Jiang keep his distance?

Shen Xingsui was somewhat perplexed.

But assuming their relationship had always been merely professional, he didn't probe further.

Once everything was set, the director called out, "Ready, action!"

Rain poured heavily. Inside the temple, the two leaned on each other. On the straw mat lay Xu Yan, his face pale in slumber, while a fire blazed, providing some warmth.

Fang Zhiwen, sitting beside him, heard Xu Yan mutter something in his sleep. Drawing closer to listen, he realized he was thirsty. But their water bottle was empty. Without a second thought, he rushed to collect rainwater from the eaves, helping the feverish Xu Yan to drink.

Xu Yan mumbled a thank you before drifting back into unconsciousness.

Love and pain filled Fang Zhiwen's heart. Uncontrollably, he caressed Xu Yan's cheek, whispering confessions of his feelings over the past two years. As thunder roared and night fell, he finally gave in, planting a discreet yet passionate kiss on Xu Yan's lips.

The director yelled, "Cut!"

Everyone snapped back to reality.

Shen Xingsui helped Jiang Chao to his feet as the director quickly approached, saying, "Xingsui, you haven't fully gotten into the character. While there's affection in your eyes, the restraint and suppression are missing. We need to work on that."

Shen Xingsui whispered, "Director, I apologize. Shall I take a moment to get into the mood?"

Zhang Sansan found himself in a dilemma.

He understood the challenges actors face, and as a director, his duty was to support them.

Shen Xingsui glanced at Fu Jinxiao, who was not far away. Lately, the acclaimed actor Fu had spent a lot of time on set. In this scene with Jiang Chao, Shen Xingsui had a kissing scene. With her lover just a short distance away, the situation felt incredibly awkward.

Zhang Sansan reassured her, "Let's take a break. Don't be too hard on yourself."

Shen Xingsui gave a grateful smile, "Understood."

During the break, he went over to the tent where Fu Jinxiao was sitting and started eating. As he ate, Zhang Sansan joined him and discussed the scene, coming up with an idea, "Xingsui, have you ever had a crush on someone growing up?"

Shen Xingsui paused mid-bite.

Fu Jinxiao, previously engrossed in his script, looked up at this comment, glancing in their direction.

Clearing his throat, Shen Xingsui responded, "Why are you asking this, Director?"

"The upcoming scene relates to unrequited love," Zhang Sansan explained, notebook in hand. "I thought it might help you to imagine and relate."

Shen Xingsui nervously licked his lips.

Zhang Sansan persisted, "Have you ever felt that way? An intense affection for someone who remained oblivious to your feelings?"

Shen Xingsui felt a lump in his throat, thinking how uncannily the director was hitting close to home.

If Fu Jinxiao hadn't been there, he might have admitted it. But with him present, how could he confess?

Fu Jinxiao, observing Shen Xingsui's silence, set his script aside and with a smirk teased, "Indeed, Shen. The director's only trying to help. Why not share?"