Author: 颜凉雨 / Yan Liang Yu

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 59

Ran Lin hadn’t done many impulsive things in his life: signing with Dream Without Limits to enter the entertainment industry was one, confessing to Lu Yiyao was another, and rashly coming over today was yet another.

Among them, the confession to Lu Yiyao had merely started with “I don’t just see you as a friend” before he retreated.

He really didn’t want to lead a perfectly good young man astray, which involved not just guilt but also a sense of insecurity about “the other person’s feelings”. Relationships between men are inherently unstable, and with Lu Yiyao having never liked another man before, part of the refusal was “wanting the best for him”, but another part was about “protecting oneself”.

The pressures of the entertainment industry and Lu Yiyao’s uncertain orientation made the prospects of this romance seem precarious. He didn’t want to find himself halfway through a relationship only to discover there was no path forward; that would be too painful. So from the very beginning, he subconsciously resisted taking the first step.

Ran Lin thought that if it weren’t for Lu Yiyao, there wouldn’t be a second person who would be so serious, patient, and unwaveringly dedicated to him.

“Other” people might get bored and stop contacting him due to his continual avoidance of sensitive topics; or they might have stormed off in a huff after being rejected in the villa’s backyard; or even earlier, “they” might never have confessed at all, because clearly in this relationship, “they” could easily take the initiative.

But Lu Yiyao chose the dumbest method.

He gracefully stepped back to a non-threatening distance and then warmly smiled at you, occasionally teasing you with a feather.

Being teased by a feather was quite pleasant, especially since he had already refused him; whatever came next, he could cleanly detach himself from—no responsibility, no burden, just pure enjoyment.

However, the longer it went, the less at ease Ran Lin felt.

Three months, ninety days; he had countless opportunities to repeat the “I’m sorry, I don’t accept” from that night in the backyard, but he never said it a second time. He still felt guilty, but beneath that guilt was selfishness.

He liked this person.

Liked him enough that he didn’t want to push him away a second time.

So he subconsciously kept him hanging, neither accepting nor rejecting, staying in a comfort zone where he felt most justified.

Until Huo Yuntao’s phone call.

The call was abrupt, reckless, extremely impolite.

But as soon as Ran Lin heard that it was Huo Yuntao who had called, he had an epiphany.

This was Huo Yuntao’s attitude.

As Lu Yiyao’s best friend, he was angry and indignant on Lu Yiyao’s behalf. If possible, he would prefer to bring the person face-to-face for a clear talk, proceed if it’s meant to be, and part ways if not. The situation was already crystal clear, so why pretend it was still ambiguous.

‘Actually, it’s quite pointless,’ Ran Lin thought. Not just pointless but also a waste of time.

Three months nearly flew by in the blink of an eye. If he continued to drag things out, before he knew it, a year would have passed.

Lu Yiyao was set to start filming a movie in July, and by the time it finished, the year would be over. For actors, time flies unnoticed, with days rushing forward like a stream.

No one knows what uncertainties the future holds, and the thought of missing this chance and possibly not seeing Lu Yiyao for the rest of the year unsettled him. That unsettlement heated his brain, and when the brain heats up, people tend to act impulsively.

Besides wanting to tell Lu Yiyao immediately that he liked him and wanted to be with him, he also carried a “not wanting to embarrass the person he liked” kind of fighting spirit.

He hoped that in front of Huo Yuntao, he would be seen as “someone worth Lu Yiyao’s affection”, not a coward too afraid to face Lu Yiyao’s friends.

So he had been building up his momentum all the way, and as soon as he entered, he made his stance clear. The words he just said were probably the most assertive he had been in his entire 24 years of life; his aura was not just 2.8 meters tall, but perhaps eight!

Ran Lin was quite pleased with his performance, and according to his script, the next part should be Lu Yiyao joyfully leaping over to give him a bear hug…

But the scene didn’t seem very optimistic.

Ran Lin swallowed nervously, looking at the bewildered Lu Yiyao. Teacher Lu’s expression indeed turned into that of a happy puppy, but his body seemed petrified, motionless like a flat screenshot, not at all the anticipated [gif] reaction.

In comparison, Huo Yuntao’s expression was much more vivid and animated. But after careful scrutiny, Ran Lin was sure it didn’t contain any hint of “young man, I admire you.”

The nervousness he had previously forgotten slowly crept back, and Ran Lin began to suspect he had messed things up, suddenly feeling a bit regretful.

The dressing room fell into a long and subtle silence. No one moved or spoke; viewed from above, it would resemble a dreadfully awkward scene.

But only those within could hear the storm brewing in the depths of their souls. And first to be swept up in the storm was Huo Yuntao.

His original intention in making the call was to stand up for his friend, so why did the main culprit rush over to declare his love? And was this really the Ran Lin that Lu Yiyao talked about daily? Wasn’t that Ran Lin supposed to be a minor transparent actor with little courage and a tendency to provoke without accepting the consequences? What’s with this commanding presence of a male lead?

This isn’t a pig; this is a damn lion, the kind that guards the gate!

Lu Yiyao wasn’t receptive to his friend’s silent protests and cries. His heart had exploded into popcorn at the moment of hearing “you succeeded”, buttery and sugary, transforming into a cloud carrying him through the stars.

“Maybe…” Unable to bear the silence, Ran Lin weakly proposed a retreat. “Pretend I never came?”

Huo Yuntao was frustrated and about to speak when Lu Yiyao interjected—

“Lao Huo, turn around.”

Huo Yuntao was confused and looked at Lu Yiyao. Lu Yiyao barely smiled. “Turn.”

Huo Yuntao felt a surge of exasperation, tempted to rush out and strangle the high-ranking executive of his entertainment company who had procured today’s invitation for him—why did you help me get the invitation for today!!!

Ran Lin, completely baffled, watched Huo Yuntao turn around, not understanding this game between brothers, but feeling a vague sympathy seeing his disconsolate face.

As he was pondering, a shadow suddenly loomed over him, blocking the light.

Instinctively, Ran Lin turned around to find his lips brushed by a quick peck. The action was so swift and light that by the time he focused on Lu Yiyao’s smiling face, he wasn’t sure if he had really been kissed or if it was an illusion.

Lu Yiyao stood right in front of him, close but not intimately so. Ran Lin heard the thumping of a heartbeat, unsure if it was his own or the other’s. He opened his mouth to speak, but Lu Yiyao beat him to it, reaching out to touch his face.

Like the kiss, Lu Yiyao’s touch was dangerously gentle, his fingertips grazing his cheek, lingering and reluctant to leave.

Ran Lin finally snapped out of his daze, bemused by Lu Yiyao’s focused expression, and asked softly, “Is this… quality checking?”

Lu Yiyao didn’t stop; his eyes were filled with contentment. “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time.”

Ran Lin chuckled, teasingly asking, “How does it feel?”

Lu Yiyao replied, “Marvelous.”

Ran Lin’s heart melted, feeling like he was falling for this man all over again…

Bang—

The loud door slam signified the indignant exit of Young Master Huo—these two love cheats sons of a bitches!

Ran Lin watched the dust settle from the closed door, suddenly worried about his reputation among Lu Yiyao’s friends. But Lu Yiyao relaxed completely, pulling Ran Lin into his embrace without any hesitation.

Ran Lin’s first instinct was to wrap his arms around Lu Yiyao’s back, a response almost instinctual. His eyes grew misty; he had never thought he’d fall for someone so outstanding, and by chance, that person also liked him back.

But Ran Lin’s embrace stirred Lu Yiyao into excitement.

He wasn’t a saint; ever since he realized his feelings for Ran Lin, he had been crazed with desire. He despised how cool he had to appear while chatting on WeChat, knowing full well the intensity of his feelings.

The current setting obviously wasn’t suitable for much, but collecting some interest was always due.

When Ran Lin found himself pressed against the wall, he hadn’t quite grasped the situation before Lu Yiyao’s lips descended, sweeping away all his thoughts with a kiss.

It was a passionate and oppressive kiss.

Ran Lin closed his eyes involuntarily, pressed tightly against the wall, wanting to reciprocate but lacking the strength to do so. The other’s almost aggressive demand took everything he could give.

By the time Lu Yiyao finally released his lips, Ran Lin’s legs nearly buckled. His body was still pressed by Lu Yiyao, their noses brushed against each other, eyes closed and filled with desire.

“Someone might come in…” Ran Lin knew it was a mood killer to say such things, but he was genuinely afraid. The more he liked Lu Yiyao, the more he feared him getting hurt because of him.

“No, they won’t,” Lu Yiyao murmured, his breath erratic and warm on Ran Lin’s face. “Lao Huo is guarding the door.”

Ran Lin felt exasperated. After being tricked like that, he was still standing guard for his brother. What kind of brotherhood was this!

But then, his heart warmed up, happy for Lu Yiyao. “He’s really good to you.”

Lu Yiyao gazed at him steadily, unable to resist, and kissed him again. “He will be good to you too.”

Ran Lin’s face felt like it was on fire, yet he feigned calmness. “Love for the house extends to the crows on its roof*?”

*(爱屋及乌) It’s an idiom referring to when you love a person, you will also care about the people or things related to them.

“No.” Lu Yiyao shook his head, speaking gently. “It’s more like he will discover how good you are, just like I did.”

Lu Yiyao’s lips were especially attractive, especially when he was saying sweet things. Watching him, Ran Lin got carried away and couldn’t help but lean in for a kiss.

Lu Yiyao’s eyes darkened, and he struggled to restrain himself, his voice low and husky. “Stop seducing me.”

Ran Lin protested innocently, “I just kissed you once, and you’ve kissed me…”

“I can kiss you,” Lu Yiyao interrupted, “but you can’t kiss me.”

Ran Lin widened his eyes. “What’s the difference?”

Lu Yiyao then buried his face in Ran Lin’s neck, murmuring, “When I kiss you, I can hold back, but when you kiss me, I just want to devour you…”

Ran Lin felt like he was about to ascend to heaven…

Foul!

That was cheating! With Lu Yiyao acting so coquettishly, Ran Lin wouldn’t mind being devoured to the last crumb…

Thump, thump, thump.

Seemingly calculated to prevent the situation from becoming unmanageable, Young Master Huo timely knocked as a warning.

Lu Yiyao gave Ran Lin a deep look, reluctantly let go, and turned to open the door, letting Huo Yuntao back in.

Huo Yuntao had already realized when he was outside. No, he didn’t need to think too hard; seeing Lu Yiyao’s silly look, he knew the case was hopeless. He wasn’t going to play the spoilsport; instead, if possible, he’d fully support this couple, providing a shelter from the storm… Lu Yiyao owed him one!

“Let’s reintroduce ourselves.” Huo Yuntao extended his hand in friendship after taking a deep breath. “Hello, I’m Huo Yuntao.”

Ran Lin somewhat awkwardly straightened his shirt before shaking hands. “Hello, I’m Ran Lin.”

“Sorry about the call earlier,” Huo Yuntao muttered. “Hope I didn’t cause you any trouble.”

“No,” Ran Lin denied quickly. “You were very discreet.”

Huo Yuntao felt awkward but quickly asked, “How did you explain your sudden visit here to your agent?”

Ran Lin replied truthfully, “I said a very good friend was also here, and I had to say hello.”

Huo Yuntao frowned. “A very good friend?”

Ran Lin glanced at Lu Yiyao.

Lu Yiyao nodded and turned back to Huo Yuntao. “You’re mine, I’m his, so you’re his too. It makes sense.”

Huo Yuntao no longer wanted to talk to these two.

He’d gone from a supporting actor to a complete antagonist, and now he just wanted to rush home and cuddle with his wife.

Though fraught with deep emotions, in the end, Ran Lin’s lips were only a little reddened, and his light makeup wasn’t obviously smeared. His shirt was neat after readjusting. Both he and Lu Yiyao had very little time, so staying until now was already pushing it.

“I have to go back,” Ran Lin finally said. Parting just after getting together always felt bittersweet.

“Go,” Lu Yiyao said, his eyes still fixated on Ran Lin.

Huo Yuntao watched the two and felt a pang of empathy; what seemed easy for others was fraught with difficulties for them. Sighing, he softened and suggested, “Don’t be like this. It’s not a farewell. We can arrange a safe four-person date another day.”

The word “date” seemed to have a magical healing effect. The couple finally smiled.

Then Huo Yuntao heard Ran Lin say, “See you tomorrow.”

Lu Yiyao responded, “Mm.”

After Ran Lin left, Huo Yuntao, a beat too late, realized something was amiss and turned to Lu Yiyao, “Tomorrow?”

Lu Yiyao nodded as if it were obvious. “Tomorrow’s premiere in Shanghai.”

Huo Yuntao prodded, “And then?”

Lu Yiyao: “Then there’s Suzhou and Hangzhou.”

Huo Yuntao narrowed his eyes, his voice turning dangerous. “So… you two are together for the next three days?”

Lu Yiyao suddenly hugged his friend. “Thank you for today.”

Huo Yuntao: “Don’t change the subject!!!”

……

When Ran Lin returned to the dressing room, Wang Xi finally relaxed. She wasn’t interested in Ran Lin’s private friendships; as long as they didn’t affect his career, she wouldn’t interfere.

Still, she offered a reminder. “You took quite a while there.”

Ran Lin replied with an easy smile, “Just had a few extra words.”

Wang Xi nodded, not prying further, only advising, “You can afford to do this now, cherish it. Once you become more famous and attract more attention, you’ll find even simple things can become complicated, and you’ll need to be careful about everything you do.”

Ran Lin’s eyes twinkled mischievously. “I thought I was already quite famous.”

Expecting an eye roll from his manager, he was surprised when Wang Xi stood up and gave him a pat on the back. “Chest out, head up, look forward!”

Startled, Ran Lin reflexively adopted the posture, standing tall like a pine. Wang Xi nodded approvingly. “Keep this confidence from now on.”

Ran Lin couldn’t help but laugh. “Isn’t this a bit too much?”

Wang Xi didn’t respond but looked towards Liu Wanwan, who didn’t hesitate to say, “Not at all! Ran Ge, when you’re cocky, you’re incredibly handsome!”

Even as he got into the car, Ran Lin was still trying to figure out if that was a compliment or not.

Meanwhile, Lu Yiyao and Huo Yuntao had already parted ways. Like Ran Lin, Lu Yiyao was rushing to Shanghai, while Huo Yuntao continued with the premiere’s schedule, heading to the media screening.

The production team had arranged to show the first episode and the ultimate trailer of <Sword of Fallen Flowers> at the screening, allowing the media to see it ten days before the audience. In return, they were expected to write articles and generate buzz for the show.

When Huo Yuntao arrived at the screening, the first episode was almost over. In the dim light, he managed to find Li Ruifeng, the executive of his entertainment company, who had brought him there. Fortunately, Li Ge had saved him a seat, so he quickly sat down and immersed himself in the show.

But the first episode ended after just ten minutes, featuring only a few shots of Lu Yiyao and none of Ran Lin.

Huo Yuntao almost wanted to groan in frustration when the screen flashed—the ultimate trailer was starting.

The first scene was the three characters swearing brotherhood, their vow nearly shaking the plum garden.

Huo Yuntao’s attention was instantly captured, forgetting his surroundings and the fact that it was just a screening, completely engrossed in the world of <Sword of Fallen Flowers>.

The trailer was a whirlwind of intricate martial arts, undercurrents, youthful passion, and pure heartedness. Swords were stained with blood, hearts with emotion; as the blood cooled and the feelings broke, so did the swords…

Even after the trailer ended, Huo Yuntao was still deeply moved. The editing was so sharp and intense, leaving no room for breath until the final snowy gaze in the plum garden.

He found it almost impossible to connect the Fang Xian from the trailer with the Ran Lin he had just formally met. Though they shared the same face, they had completely different auras. If Lu Yiyao had fallen for Fang Xian, he would have understood better because the person on the screen shone so brightly.

The lights came back on, and the media clapped politely and sincerely.

“How come you’re so late?” Li Ruifeng, familiar with Huo Yuntao, chatted casually. “You almost missed even the trailer.”

Young Master Huo’s attendance was entirely driven by personal sentiment, and whether he saw the first episode, or the trailer wouldn’t impact anyone else but him. However, Li Ruifeng knew he was keen to get a taste.

Huo Yuntao, recognizing the tease, didn’t mind and directly asked, “Was the first episode good?”

Li Ruifeng thought for a moment and replied objectively, “The first thirty minutes were brilliant, but the ten minutes after you arrived were somewhat lackluster.”

Huo Yuntao: 囧. His luck was really…

“But you saw the trailer, right? It’s certainly eye-catching.” Li Ruifeng continued, “If the show can deliver even sixty percent of that, it’s sure to be a hit.”

Huo Yuntao felt better, as if the praise and anticipation were for himself.

“What do you think of the actors?” Huo Yuntao asked with anticipation.

Li Fengrui knew he’d inquire about Lu Yiyao and didn’t hesitate to praise. “Tang Jingyu is a difficult character to grasp, but Lu Yiyao did well. Among young actors, he’s one of the few who’s genuinely talented and dedicated.”

“What about Fang Xian?” Huo Yuntao casually inquired, trying to sound nonchalant.

Li Ruifeng was a bit surprised that Huo Yuntao took an interest in such a minor actor, but since Fang Xian’s performance had left a deep impression, he was prepared to speak honestly when someone else spoke up first—

“He will steal the show.”

Huo Yuntao was taken aback, turning to the speaker sitting next to Li Fengrui.

The man appeared to be in his mid-thirties, cultured, and elegant, with a smile in his eyes. However, Huo Yuntao instinctively disliked him, similar to how he disliked most people in his father’s business circle. This man shared something with those people: they all hid behind a mask of smiles, never revealing their true intentions unless they chose to.

Li Fengrui, however, seemed to know the man and was surprised by his interjection. After a moment of astonishment, he eagerly introduced them: “Yuntao, this is President Ding from Armor City Pictures. President Ding, this is our…”

“Young Master Huo,” Ding Kai extended his hand, polite and cordial. “I’ve heard much about you.”

Huo Yuntao frowned reflexively. “I’ve just returned to the country.”

Ding Kai’s eyes flickered with amusement, smiling. “But your legend has been circulating in the industry. Should I say that?”

Huo Yuntao could be sure he was being underestimated. It wasn’t the first time, and given his youth and inexperience, he was aware of his own naivety. Even if he could put on an act, it was only convincing to the likes of his peers, not to seasoned players like Li Fengrui. Most people tended to underestimate him subtly, trying to conceal it. But President Ding was openly dismissive, not bothering to accommodate him at all.

Li Fengrui wasn’t pleased either.

After all, Huo Yuntao was the chairman’s son, and while they might criticize him behind closed doors, it was another matter entirely for outsiders to mock him.

Unexpectedly, before he could say anything, Huo Yuntao surprisingly continued the conversation, seriously asking, “What did you mean by ‘stealing the show’ earlier?”

Ding Kai raised an eyebrow, slightly taken aback, expecting a frosty response, not an academic inquiry. But appreciating the unconventional approach, he indulged in further discussion. “The actor playing Fang Xian has a strong screen presence. Lu Yiyao isn’t bad either, but whenever the two share a scene, Fang Xian naturally overshadows Tang Jingyu without even trying. He just needs to fully commit to his role, and his performance will continue to suppress Tang Jingyu’s.”

Huo Yuntao frowned, partly disliking the idea of Lu Yiyao being overshadowed and partly because he hadn’t noticed it himself. “I didn’t feel that way?”

Expecting Ding Kai to elaborate, Huo Yuntao was surprised when he merely shrugged and smiled lightly. “It’s just an opinion, Young Master Huo. Feel free to disregard it. It’s not a professional stance.”

Huo Yuntao mentally rolled his eyes so hard they could have flipped his bangs—if it’s not professional, why the long speech!

Applause suddenly erupted again.

Huo Yuntao looked back to the front, realizing the director and screenwriter had emerged.

The venue quieted down once more, and the discussion between Huo Yuntao and President Ding naturally concluded. But Huo Yuntao couldn’t help glancing at Ding Kai occasionally.

Since returning to the country, he had met many people in the business world, willingly or otherwise. His father wanted him to be ready to take over the family business as soon as possible, so he forced himself to learn and adapt quickly.

He didn’t like Ding Kai, but he had to admit that the man had a certain authoritative presence, not the kind that deliberately elevates itself, but one that is confident and capable, making him seem all the more formidable the more casually he carries himself—a person who could make or break deals in a moment of laughter.

Huo Yuntao didn’t buy into the man’s substance, but he could learn a thing or two from his poise.

……

Ran Lin and Lu Yiyao optimistically thought they could start a three-day “sappy love journey,” but the schedule in Shanghai and Hangzhou was relentless. By the time they returned to their hotel rooms late at night, the hallways’ surveillance made them wary, and the two couldn’t manage a secret rendezvous.

On the evening of the event in Hangzhou, the creative team moved to Suzhou. Seeing that they wouldn’t meet again after the Suzhou press conference ended and would return to Beijing, then Lu Yiyao diving into his packed schedule, they both felt a bit unwilling to part.

It’s one thing for the cheese to be locked in the cabinet, but quite another to be barred from it even when the cabinet is open. What young blood could stand that!

The one thing Ran Lin was grateful for was impulsively going after Lu Yiyao the day before yesterday, at least managing to kiss him once. Or perhaps a few times. Anyway, it left him with something to reminisce about.

[I want to come see you.]

Lying on the hotel bed, Ran Lin read Lu Yiyao’s message, feeling both sweet and bitter.

It was clear that they were unmarried men, so why were they acting as if they were having an affair?

[Wang Xi and Wanwan are right next door, too risky.]

[AHHHHHHHH.gif]

Ran Lin looked at the screen full of screaming gophers, chuckling to himself.

After laughing, a spark of inspiration hit Ran Lin. He typed back, trying to suppress his amusement—[How about calling Third Brother over too?]

Lu Yiyao, faced with this suggestion, was incredulous—[Are you sure?]

Ran Lin—[Three people in one room, no risk of rumors. Otherwise, I really can only interact with you at the press conference. 😭]

Lu Yiyao—[What if I can’t hold back?]

Ran Lin—[Then drive¹, drive however you like.]

Lu Yiyao—[……]

Ran Lin—[Really, his presence won’t affect anything. I promise you can still drive¹.]

Lu Yiyao narrowed his eyes, deeply skeptical of this tempting proposal. But Ran Lin sounded so confident that he felt an itch to try…

Ten minutes later, in Ran Lin’s room.

“Good thing your suitcase is big enough, or it wouldn’t fit all this haha—”

Tang Xiaoyu wheeled around on his hoverboard, his bell-like laughter filling the room.

Lu Yiyao watched him despondently, any desire to “drive¹” completely extinguished.

¹They’re playfully bantering. Driving in this case is referring to “drive a car (vehicle)”, which is referring to driving Ran Lin’s hoverboard. However, it’s also a euphemism for sex/explicit content. So in this case, there’s actually a double meaning. Note: They’re not literally saying they’re going to have sex with a third person in the room, but more like, “Maybe we can get away with a little this and that (kissing) even with him there.”

As Tang Xiaoyu clumsily made his way to the entrance, Ran Lin quickly kissed Lu Yiyao and then said righteously, “You said, ‘Next time we meet, you’ll teach me.'”

Lu Yiyao sighed helplessly. “I was just saying it casually…”

Ran Lin stared at him intently. “I take everything you say seriously.”

Lu Yiyao was stunned, then suddenly jumped up and headed toward the entrance. “It’s about time I took over—”

The three of them “drove” all night.

Ran Lin thought it would be torturous to look but not touch, but it turned out it wasn’t. Even though he still wanted to kiss and hug, just watching Lu Yiyao made his heart full. It seemed like any difficult obstacle could be overcome; any convoluted path could be straightened.

Ran Lin suddenly realized that falling in love with someone could also bring courage.

……

On May 28^th, Beijing was drizzled with light rain all day, blurring the lines between the end of spring and the beginning of summer. The streets were washed clean and moist, and even the leaves were dusted off, revealing a long-missed green.

That night, <Sword of Fallen Flowers> premiered.

Ran Lin couldn’t watch it in front of the TV because Wang Xi had finally arranged a meeting with the most important investor for <Mint Green>.

“Aren’t we supposed to wait and see the reaction to <Sword of Fallen Flowers> first?” Ran Lin felt it was a bit sudden.

Unexpectedly, Wang Xi was also surprised. “I don’t know. His assistant called me and said they finally had time. I couldn’t just push away the opportunity. Many are eyeing this role.”

Ran Lin didn’t ask further. The investor’s time is always right. A chance from them is luck, and whether it’s sudden or not is your problem; on their side, there’s always a plan.

The dinner coincided with the official airing of <Sword of Fallen Flowers> at 7:30 p.m. As the drama began, Wang Xi and Ran Lin arrived at a modernly decorated club.

Unlike last time they met with Lei Baishi, whom they knew “pursued art and wine”, this time before leaving, Ran Lin asked Wang Xi about Ding Kai’s style. Other than “pragmatic”, she only had “inscrutable” to describe him. Ding Kai’s “pragmatism” was reserved for himself; it was hard for outsiders to guess his moves before he made them. What might seem risky at first often turns out to be the most prudent choice in hindsight.

On this late May evening, the air was warm with a hint of coolness. Ran Lin wore a simple but thoughtful white shirt paired with khaki trousers, slightly tapered at the ankles to accentuate his long, straight legs. His hair wasn’t overly styled; it was just washed and blown dry—formal but not stiff, fresh but not forced.

He and Wang Xi arrived at the booked room first, with Ding Kai yet to arrive. The room was spacious, but the round table wasn’t large, estimated for six people at most, which was sufficient—according to Wang Xi, it might only be Ding Kai and possibly an assistant attending.

“They won’t have much in common,” Ran Lin joked about Ding Kai and Lei Baishi in the privacy of the room.

Wang Xi laughed, nodding in agreement. “Definitely not. They’re from different worlds.”

Lei Baishi liked grandeur and was passionate about art and brotherhood.

In contrast, Ding Kai was a businessman through and through, concerned only with maximizing profits from his projects.

If these two sat together, Lei Baishi would surely find Ding Kai too philistine, while Ding might consider Lei Baishi naively idealistic.

Ran Lin suddenly wondered: if not Lei Baishi, but Ding Kai had invested in <Sword of Fallen Flowers>. Would he still have secured the second male lead? The more he thought about it, the more implausible it seemed because the <Sword of Fallen Flowers> project was actually risky. In the realm of TV dramas, martial arts stories were almost synonymous with failure, and even with the participation of Chen Qizheng and Song Mang, it was still their first foray into TV dramas. If Ding Kai was as pragmatic as Wang Xi described, he probably wouldn’t take the risk to invest.

“Sorry for being late.” Ding Kai entered the room himself, apologizing as soon as he stepped in. He was indeed late by four minutes according to the agreed time.

But this apology caught Wang Xi off guard, and she hurriedly stood up to respond. “Not at all. We arrived early.”

Ran Lin also stood up cautiously. “President Ding.”

Before understanding the situation fully, he dared not speak more.

“Ran Lin?” Ding Kai looked over mildly.

Ran Lin quickly nodded. “Yes, I’m Ran Lin.”

Although President Ding was in his thirties, he looked much younger. He had a well-maintained figure that fit perfectly in his tailored casual suit. He was understated yet stylish. His hair was short and neat, his demeanor relaxed yet astute, surprisingly handsome. If not for the occasional flicker of sharpness in his eyes, it would be hard to associate him with the profit-maximizing businessman Wang Xi mentioned.

After confirming Ran Lin’s identity, Ding Kai nodded and returned his attention to Wang Xi, carrying a polite smile. “I’ve been abroad recently and just got back.”

In fact, Wang Xi knew that the other party had already been back in the country for over a month. However, when someone extends a courtesy, there’s no reason not to accept it graciously. “To have a meeting with President Ding is our fortune. Please have a seat.”

Ding Kai took the principal seat, and Wang Xi had someone open a carefully selected bottle of red wine to let it breathe in the decanter—she remembered from last time that he had a preference for red wine. Soon, the dishes they had pre-ordered began to arrive. Throughout, Wang Xi kept making small talk with Ding Kai, who was neither cold nor overly enthusiastic, just listening and occasionally responding—enough to be polite.

Ran Lin watched this, feeling increasingly unsure. A person even Wang Xi couldn’t see through was even more inscrutable to him. At this point, he just hoped the dishes would come quickly and that President Ding would set a tone for the meal so he would know how to act and make a good impression. Otherwise, even someone as diplomatic as Wang Xi might run out of things to say.

Suddenly, Ran Lin found himself missing Lei Baishi.

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