Singer

Chapter 57 - Meet the Parents

Translator: Lynn

The initial two days of filming proved quite manageable. The director displayed thoughtfulness towards Jian Jie, a fresh addition to the crew, and refrained from overloading him with numerous scenes. This allowed for a gradual adaptation process. However, it wasn’t long before Jian Jie found himself immersed in a whirlwind of activity. With his album’s imminent release, he had to accelerate the shooting pace to return to China promptly. Often faced with more than a dozen scenes in a single day, he dedicated his nights to memorizing lines and delving into his roles. There was scarcely a moment of respite. Adding to this demanding schedule, despite his extended leave, Jian Jie adamantly refused to compromise on his education, meticulously studying his emailed coursework and notes every night.

Observing Jian Jie’s weight loss as a result of his strenuous endeavors tugged at Long Zichen’s heartstrings. Gone were the days of sleeping in; he now arose early to lay out clothes, fetch breakfast, and even pre-squeeze toothpaste for Jian Jie. Long Zichen envisioned these gestures as a means for Jian Jie to steal some well-deserved rest. On set, Jian Jie showed no signs of fatigue, yet Long Zichen believed his role as a caretaker was well-placed. Li Xiaoqi found himself experiencing a pang of guilt each time he witnessed these actions. He couldn’t help but think that Director Long was deserving of the Best Assistant accolade.

Busy days always seem to fly by, and the ten-day filming stint concluded all too swiftly. Despite his brief tenure on set, Jian Jie extended his gratitude to the director, co-stars, and the rest of the crew, individually expressing his appreciation. Director Paul found himself quite content with Jian Jie’s performance. While he might lack seasoned acting skills, Jian Jie’s merit lay in his adept embodiment of his roles and his unflagging work ethic. Talent might not always be a prerequisite, but diligence is, as the fear of hardship can thwart the most promising talent. The director’s confidence in Jian Jie was reinforced by his dedication. The young actor reassured the crew that he would be available as needed for the movie’s promotional activities once it’s released. Participation in the promotional circuit was voluntary, aligning with each actor’s personal preference. With this being Jian Jie’s debut film, his investment and commitment were palpable.

As soon as the filming concluded, the trio, including Jian Jie, would board an evening flight back to China. Despite the album being only half recorded, there was still a substantial amount of work remaining.

Given the hectic schedule, Long Zichen had been unable to venture out for leisure activities. He had thoroughly researched numerous landmarks online, but ended up visiting the New York City Opera House for its photographic potential. A tinge of resentment colored his sentiments as he packed his bags in the hotel, criticizing the company for their hasty departure. He lashed out, calling them remorseless capitalists. He was acutely aware that upon their return, Jian Jie’s schedule would intensify further, particularly with the impending album release. Numerous promotional events would demand their time, leaving them with scarce moments together.

Witnessing Long Zichen’s desire to explore, Jian Jie proposed, “Since we don’t have anything planned for the afternoon, why don’t we go out for a walk?” Considering Long Zichen’s diligent efforts in taking care of him recently, it seemed only fair to fulfill such a simple request.

Long Zichen’s heart swelled with pride upon hearing these words, as his beloved Xiaojie showcased his gentle and self-reliant nature. He truly possessed the qualities of an exceptional lover. However, Long Zichen didn’t desire to occupy the rare moments of reprieve with whirlwind excursions to bustling tourist destinations. Swiftly, he leaped over and enfolded Jian Jie in his embrace, his voice brimming with elation, “Little Jie, you’re so thoughtful~~~ I just want to say, you’ve been deprived of good sleep for days. You should rest at the hotel. You’ll have ample opportunities to explore in the future.”

“Brother Chen, I’m fine as long as I’m not bored.” Jian Jie often found Long Zichen’s current demeanor utterly endearing, unable to resist patting his head gently. As their gazes intertwined, they dissolved into laughter, a simple and unexplainable joy taking hold.

Drawing close, Long Zichen placed a tender kiss on Jian Jie’s forehead, playfully saying, “Take a nap for a while. You woke up so early in the morning. I’ll wake you when it’s time.”

“Brother Chen, you woke up early too. Let’s nap together. Li Xiaoqi will call us when it’s time,” Jian Jie suggested, his grip tightening around Long Zichen’s hand.

Long Zichen found it impossible to decline, and since their packing was nearly complete, he smiled and embraced Jian Jie, surrendering to the prospect of a shared rest. Both were spirited souls at heart, burdened by few concerns, and laughter never eluded them. They slumbered until four o’clock, stirred from their dreams by Li Xiaoqi’s phone call, urging them to prepare and proceed to the airport for departure.

In lighthearted spirits, they hastily dressed and readied their suitcases for the final time, resembling two children eagerly preparing for a day of play, their delight palpable.

Upon reaching the airport, another ten-hour flight lay ahead. The plane soared through clouds, over vast oceans, finally returning them to the comfort of home.

Due to the classified nature of their travel itinerary, fan encounters at the airport were curtailed. They were shuttled directly to the company for a meeting. Within the meeting, Long Zichen fervently advocated for postponing the new album’s release until July. His reasoning was two-fold: to allow Jian Jie to recuperate and preserve his vocal quality, as well as to ensure the album’s top-tier quality. The philosophy of meticulous and unhurried craftsmanship underscored his approach, an assurance that Xiaojie’s album would emerge as a premium creation. The company displayed a commendable degree of compassion, ultimately granting approval to Long Zichen’s proposition.

As Long Zichen attended the company meeting, his assertiveness prevailing, he was suddenly jolted by a piece of news: Jian Jie had just received a call from Brother Jian, inviting both him and Long Zichen for dinner at their home that evening.

Long Zichen’s heart quivered with unease, leading him to take a seat on Jian Jie’s lap within the office, seeking solace in his embrace, “This is happening too soon. I’m meeting my future brother-in-law this quickly; I’m utterly unprepared! Oh no, your brother must have heard rumors that I took advantage of you and is probably plotting my demise!”

Jian Jie found Long Zichen’s words quite amusing, offering a comforting pat while sporting a grin, “Before I left for my trip, I did mention that we should have a meal together. Brother Chen, don’t worry. My brother is reasonable. Since I’ve extended the invitation, he won’t cause a scene. Besides, we’ll be seeing each other frequently in the future; we can’t hide this forever.”

“Right, absolutely. After all, even an unsightly daughter-in-law has to meet her uncle, let alone all of us,” Long Zichen sighed, diverting his attention to inquiring about Jian Jie’s brother’s preferences, all in a bid to endear himself to his soon-to-be brother-in-law.

Gifts were already in place. Jian Jie and Long Zichen brought a few bottles of wine from abroad for Brother Jian, cosmetics for Jiang Xinya, and a combination toy for Xiao Jiayue. None of these items were extravagant; otherwise, Brother Jian might chide them for frivolous spending.

Upon reaching the neighborhood where Brother Jian resided, Long Zichen parked the car, ventured into a supermarket for some vegetables, all set to make a triumphant return to impress his brother-in-law. Given that Jian Jie currently couldn’t accompany Long Zichen for vegetable shopping due to his disguise, he sat in the back seat, adorned with sunglasses and a mask. The goal was to prevent any commotion or unwarranted attention should he be spotted without any edible provisions. After a wait of less than half an hour, Long Zichen emerged, two hefty bags in tow, his expression gleeful. He showcased his haul to Jian Jie, exclaiming, “I’ve scored a victory! Beef that Brother-in-law adores, meats and chicken wings that the kids love, beauty products for Sister-in-law, soups, and even the vegetarian dishes adored by our littlest one. I’ll be showcasing my culinary prowess later. Our brother-in-law is in for a treat!”

Jian Jie couldn’t help but smile, admiring Long Zichen’s demeanor. He found him utterly endearing, reminiscent of an innocent child. His eldest brother was bound to warm up to him.

Having made a prior call, Brother Jian was ready and waiting at home. Jiang Xinya had gone to retrieve the children from kindergarten, leaving Jian Bin as the sole occupant.

The instant Long Zichen crossed the threshold, his entire demeanor transformed. A warm smile graced his features as he respectfully greeted Brother Jian. His quiet, composed manners could easily deceive anyone familiar with his playful nature.

Brother Jian’s demeanor exhibited a noticeable improvement this time. Though his expression retained a hint of dissatisfaction, he eventually nodded and greeted, “Well, take a seat.”

Long Zichen felt a surge of contentment upon receiving this response. Hastening to add, “Brother, Xiaojie and I have brought some food along. Don’t bother about it; I’ll head to the kitchen to whip up a few dishes. You folks can chat for now.”

“Just stash it in the fridge. We’ll prepare it once Jiejie’s sister-in-law is back,” Jian Bin’s words carried a slightly rigid tone. It made sense not to impose cooking duties on the guests, and he was somewhat unaccustomed to conversing affably with the person who had won his brother’s affection.

Long Zichen, however, was determined to present himself in the best light before his brother-in-law. He wouldn’t let go of such an opportunity and politely insisted, “No trouble at all. I’ll prepare it in advance. We can eat when Sister Xinya returns.” With that, he made his way to the kitchen, losing no time in getting busy. Yet, he was equally keen on eavesdropping on the living room discussion while chopping vegetables.

The rhythmic “dong dong” of knife hitting board emanated from the kitchen, and an extended silence engulfed the living room. Observing this, Jian Jie intervened with a cheerful tone, “Brother, no need to worry. Brother Chen learned cooking abroad and is quite skilled.”

A sidelong glance from Brother Jian was the only response. Aware of his brother’s inner turmoil, Jian Jie retrieved the gifts he had brought along and spoke up in Long Zichen’s favor, attributing the purchases to him. He recounted Long Zichen’s self-care habits abroad as well, the narrative often highlighting Long Zichen’s attentive nature. Brother Jian listened, only to discover a significant issue: “So, you two share a room and sleep together?”

Jian Jie blushed, responding with a playful pout, “We’re a couple now. Although we haven’t moved in together, brother and sister Xinya had Jiayue even lived together before they were officially wed…”

“You little rascal!” Jian Bin’s embarrassment ignited anger, and he shot a fierce glare at Jian Jie. In the adjacent kitchen, Long Zichen stifled a chuckle, inwardly applauding Jian Jie’s quick-witted response: his little Jie’s wit was truly impressive!

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