Who is Helping Me Win by Lying Down [Transmigration] - Chapter 37

Chapter 37

Chen Shu was already accustomed to explaining, He’s wary of strangers.

Oh, I see. Duan Xu awkwardly withdrew his hand.

After this interruption, he didn’t say anything more, turning to continue leading the way inside. He remained silent as he guided them to a forward position, his back facing Chen Shu.

Only after entering the private room did he take a deep breath and turn back to Chen Shu. I wasn’t sure about your preferences, so I haven’t ordered yet.

Chen Shu said, That’s fine. Let’s review the script first.

Alright. Duan Xu casually pulled the script from his bag, walked over, and sat down beside Chen Shu. After a moment’s thought, he shifted slightly closer.

Yan Jingchuan coldly watched their nearly touching shoulders and arms, then looked up at Chen Shu.

Chen Shu paid no attention.

Duan Xu stood up to retrieve the electronic menu. But before we go through the script, shall we order first? What dishes do you like? I’ll see if this place has them.

Chen Shu wasn’t particular about food. Anything is fine. I have no dietary restrictions.

Understood. Duan Xu selected several signature dishes, confirmed with Chen Shu, and placed the order.

Chen Shu leaned back in his chair, thumb stroking Wangcai beneath his palm, waiting for him to finish.

Duan Xu set down the menu and met his gaze, uncomfortably tapping the electronic screen twice. Sorry to keep you waiting. The order’s placed. Shall we begin?

Chen Shu said, Mm.

On the day it was confirmed he would be filming alongside Duan Xu, He Qiyu had given Chen Shu a detailed introduction to Duan Xu.

A rich second generation with a comfortable lifestyle, not a bad person at heart, but carrying some arrogance in his interactions. His team’s marketing tactics were particularly something to avoid.

Still, he was a professionally trained actor with above-average skills.

This was evident during table reads, which was why Chen Shu had agreed to review the script with him.

I heard you debuted as a singer. Your first acting role must be quite overwhelming, Duan Xu said as he opened the script. If you need any help, feel free to ask me anytime.

Chen Shu said, Thank you.

Duan Xu glanced at him.

Seeing his expression remain impassive, the enthusiasm on Duan Xu’s face momentarily faded.

Yan Jingchuan observed Duan Xu’s shifting expressions clearly, then looked up at Chen Shu again.

Chen Shu was focused on the script and didn’t notice the change in the person beside him.

Completely unguarded.

Yan Jingchuan’s expression darkened slightly.

Curled in Chen Shu’s arms, he listened as they worked through half the script together, watching Duan Xu’s gaze toward Chen Shu shift from indifference to curious scrutiny.

Just then, a server knocked and entered to serve the dishes.

Chen Shu set down the script. Let’s eat first.

Duan Xu picked up his chopsticks but couldn’t resist asking, Are you really new to acting?

Chen Shu said, Not entirely.

Seeing that Chen Shu didn’t elaborate, Duan Xu didn’t press further.

But before today’s meeting, he had assumed Chen Shu was just another singer trying to cross over into acting.

He had only heard Chen Shu’s name on the day Chen Shu came for the audition.

Losing the male lead role to a singer after the audition felt like a profound humiliation. Yet his manager insisted he stay to play a supporting role for this singer.

After all, even if he disliked the situation, he had to admit that given his current fame, he truly couldn’t compare to this suddenly popular singer.

His main purpose in meeting Chen Shu today was to assess Chen Shu’s level before filming began and perhaps offer some one-on-one coaching.

But he hadn’t expected—

Chen Shu didn’t need his coaching at all.

Watching Chen Shu’s precise grasp of every emotional nuance in the character, his effortless control when getting into character—even just his line delivery—left Duan Xu unable to find a single flaw.

Chen Shu not only didn’t need his guidance, but in this simple rehearsal, his performance was effortlessly elevated by Chen Shu to an unprecedented level.

Thinking that the person who outperformed him was at least not an amateur, the frustration accumulated in Duan Xu’s heart over the past few days slightly dissipated.

Then he thought about the team’s arrangements.

He frowned first, irritably poking his chopsticks into the bowl twice before composing his expression.

Forget it.

Take things one step at a time.

After the meal.

Duan Xu ordered some tea snacks and, after eating, asked Chen Shu: Want to come to my room when we get back?

Yan Jingchuan abruptly opened his eyes.

He looked at Chen Shu.

Was this man planning to stay out overnight?

He lifted his paw and pressed it against Chen Shu’s wrist, his claws tapping lightly against the watch face, producing faint, crisp sounds.

Chen Shu followed the sound to check the time.

It was almost ten o’clock.

He said: Maybe next time.

Since they had to go to the set early tomorrow morning, Duan Xu wasn’t disappointed: Alright, see you tomorrow then.

See you tomorrow.

Afterwards, the two parted ways at the restaurant entrance and returned to the hotel in their respective cars.

Chen Shu went upstairs back to his room, finding the living room completely quiet.

He glanced toward Yan Jingchuan’s bedroom.

The door was tightly shut.

He must already be asleep.

This was the first time he hadn’t seen Yan Jingchuan around after returning.

As this thought crossed his mind, Chen Shu chuckled wryly.

Habit truly was a subtle yet powerful force – during this period, he had grown accustomed to having Yan Jingchuan by his side, and being alone had become the unfamiliar state.

Thinking this, he withdrew his gaze, unfastened Wangcai’s leash, and patted the dog’s head: Go eat.

Yan Jingchuan ate just enough to maintain Wangcai’s physical strength before heading straight into Chen Shu’s bedroom and lying down beside the bed.

After spending every day in the same room with Wangcai, using this day-night alternating method, his body was gradually recovering, and he no longer needed to eat to replenish energy.

Since Wangcai had often shown poor appetite recently, Chen Shu didn’t force it. After returning to the bedroom and washing up, he turned off the lights and went to sleep.

Early the next morning.

When Chen Shu finished washing up and was about to leave, the meal cart was wheeled into the room again.

After sitting down, Yan Jingchuan spoke first: Zhang Shi has already investigated Li Wenyu’s matter. He does indeed have connections with Li Sheng.

Li Sheng was certainly no fool – Zhang Shi only uncovered their relationship, but the evidence wasn’t conclusive, and their interactions weren’t frequent.

But he never believed in coincidences.

Aside from his encounter with Chen Shu being a genuine accident, where he had voluntarily given up control for the first time in his life, there was no need to make exceptions for anyone else.

Chen Shu asked: How do you plan to handle it?

Yan Jingchuan said: Whether he’s Li Sheng’s mole or not will become clear soon enough.

Hearing this, Chen Shu paused slightly while drinking water.

He could tell Yan Jingchuan intended to test Li Sheng, but since he wasn’t familiar with business matters, he didn’t press for details.

In the original storyline, Li Sheng took advantage of Yan Jingchuan’s serious illness to swallow up the Yan Corporation. Now that Yan Jingchuan was awake, the outcome likely wouldn’t go as smoothly for Li Sheng.

If not for your reminder, Zhang Shi would have suffered significant losses. He’s very grateful to you.

Yan Jingchuan said, I also want to express the Yan Corporation’s gratitude to you.

Chen Shu looked at him and smiled: No need for gratitude. Consider it the first installment of repayment for all your help.

Yan Jingchuan’s eyes flickered slightly: First installment?

Chen Shu said: You’ve helped me too much. Just a name alone can’t possibly repay what I owe you.

Yan Jingchuan looked at him, his usually cold expression subtly softening, a gentle curve appearing at the corners of his thin lips: I helped you without expecting repayment.

Chen Shu said: I understand – Director Yan is keeping me.

Yan Jingchuan’s hand holding the dinner knife tightened abruptly.

Chen Shu simply smiled and didn’t speak further.

Yan Jingchuan pressed his lips together, his thoughts unusually tangled and chaotic, piling up in obscure corners of his mind.

But Chen Shu was right.

The only relationship between them was that of a sugar daddy arrangement.

Since Chen Shu didn’t want to actively pursue opportunities for this matter, when the one-year term ended, he could give Chen Shu another career opportunity. That was all.

Silence prevailed throughout the rest of the meal.

After breakfast, Chen Shu took Wangcai to the film set.

On the way, when He Qiyu learned that Duan Xu had indeed only shared a meal with Chen Shu last night and rehearsed a few scenes together, she was utterly perplexed.

Given Duan Xu’s personality, it made no sense for things to be so peaceful.

Chen Shu was essentially his competitor – Duan Xu had even lost the audition to Chen Shu. Not holding a grudge was one thing, but actively reaching out?

If it were anyone else, He Qiyu wouldn’t overthink it.

But with Duan Xu, she couldn’t help but be suspicious.

However, what surprised her even more was that Duan Xu’s personality shift wasn’t limited to just last night.

For the next week and a half, he persistently invited Chen Shu to rehearse scripts together.

Most sessions took place on set – during the day he’d include Mu Qingxue, but at night he’d avoid contact with female actors.

He Qiyu, feeling uneasy, sat in on several rehearsals.

She confirmed that his interactions with Chen Shu were indeed completely normal.

The only unusual thing was that as time went on, she noticed both Duan Xu and Mu Qingxue – trained actors – were actually seeking guidance from Chen Shu…?

But this could be seen as recognition of Chen Shu’s skills, so she was delighted rather than concerned and didn’t interfere.

After several more observations revealed nothing unusual, she reluctantly set her worries aside.

Maybe Duan Xu was genuinely trying to improve this time?

Even the male lead was humbling himself to act in a supporting role. Building good relationships with cast members while pursuing a high-quality representative work wasn’t impossible…

Besides, filming started tomorrow – no trouble would be the best outcome!

Returning to the hotel and seeing Duan Xu inviting Chen Shu to his room for final rehearsals again, she reminded Chen Shu: We have the opening ceremony tomorrow morning, don’t practice too late tonight.

Chen Shu replied: Okay.

After setting the time with Duan Xu, he returned to his room first to unleash Wangcai.

Yan Jingchuan was listening to Zhang Shi’s work report when Chen Shu returned. Without changing expression, he said: What, not going to accompany your good friend today?

Zhang Shi: …

Where did this sudden sourness come from?

He looked at Chen Shu.

He suspected Chen Shu might have lost his sense of smell, completely oblivious to the acidity in the air.

Chen Shu said: I need to go out again, I won’t disturb your work.Yan Jingchuan’s grip on his cane tightened then loosened, his voice low: Where?

Chen Shu said: To a room booked by the crew, here in the hotel.

It would be inconvenient to bring Wangcai to someone else’s accommodation.

Yan Jingchuan glanced at Wangcai, whom Chen Shu clearly had no intention of taking along, his expression darkening further: What time will you be back?

Chen Shu said: Around ten.

Yan Jingchuan checked his watch.

Two hours.

Plenty of time for anything.

Zhang Shi listened anxiously.

He looked at Yan Jingchuan, barely restraining the urge to shout what was on his mind.

Director Yan, just use your privilege as the sugar daddy to keep him here!

Yan Jingchuan didn’t.

Watching Chen Shu turn to leave, his expression unchanged, he motioned for Zhang Shi to continue.

Zhang Shi: …

He watched Chen Shu’s retreating back heading for the door.

Then looked back at Director Yan.

Who are you trying to be magnanimous for?

After the door clicked shut, Zhang Shi looked at Yan Jingchuan. Receiving no further instructions, he hesitantly resumed his work report.

He spent the entire time with a nervous heart, never expecting to make it through smoothly until the end. As soon as it was over, he quickly tidied his desk, preparing to leave this troublesome place as soon as possible.

But he was still too late.

Go find out Duan Xu’s background.

Hearing the command from above, Zhang Shi looked up and saw Yan Jingchuan flipping through documents, seemingly casual. Relieved, he remained silent for a moment before asking, Director Yan, which Duan Xu are you referring to?

Yan Jingchuan said, An actor.

Duan Xu’s closeness to Chen Shu felt deliberate.

For the sake of Li Wenyu’s matter, he could help Chen Shu uncover Duan Xu’s intentions.

The hint was enough for Zhang Shi to understand.

An actor.

It must be related to Chen Shu again.

But he really couldn’t figure it out.

When it came to matters related to Chen Shu…

Why don’t you just ask him directly? Is it fun to make things difficult for your subordinates?

Is there anything else?

Zhang Shi lowered his head. No, Director Yan. I’ll go investigate right away.

—

When Chen Shu arrived at the agreed location, several male actors were already there.

With filming about to begin, both new and experienced actors seemed a bit excited.

This kind of mood was beneficial for shooting. Chen Shu didn’t deliberately guide it, only rehearsed with everyone for about two hours before they each left.

Returning to his room, he saw Yan Jingchuan feeding Wangcai.

You’re back. Yan Jingchuan didn’t turn around.

Chen Shu said, Mm.

He walked to Yan Jingchuan’s side, crouched down, and patted Wangcai’s head. Why aren’t you asleep yet?

Yan Jingchuan looked him over from head to toe, seeing that he was no different from when he left, and then said, Zhang Shi just left.

Chen Shu said, It’s late. Go rest.

Yan Jingchuan said, Alright.

Also, Chen Shu explained in advance, the crew starts filming tomorrow. The shooting schedule will be very irregular, so I might not be able to come back on time every day.

Filming night scenes could go until dawn or early morning.

Yan Jingchuan leaned on his cane but hadn’t stood up yet. Hearing this, he turned to look at Chen Shu.

Meeting his gaze, Chen Shu explained, My role is quite heavy, so I’ll be spending a lot of time on set.

Yan Jingchuan just stared at him. Every day?

Yes. Seeing that he still seemed unsatisfied, Chen Shu added with a light laugh, I can promise you that if there’s overtime, I’ll call in advance to let you know.

Yan Jingchuan averted his gaze. That’s what you should have been doing anyway.

After saying this, he glanced at Chen Shu again, then gripped his cane, using it to help himself stand up from the sofa. Alright, I’m tired. You should rest early too.

Woof!

Chen Shu held down Wangcai’s wriggling head and looked up to see Yan Jingchuan’s retreating back before also getting up and returning to his bedroom.

The night passed, and as usual, he had breakfast with Yan Jingchuan before heading to the set.

After the opening ceremony, they took a group photo.

Duan Xu stood beside Chen Shu, leaning in to whisper, You don’t seem like it’s your first time at an opening ceremony.

Chen Shu said, I looked up the procedure.

Duan Xu turned to look at him. I don’t know why, but I feel like this isn’t your first time filming either.

Chen Shu only said, Is that so.

By the way, I’ve been listening to your songs lately. Duan Xu tapped the wireless earbud in his ear and leaned in a bit closer. I didn’t expect that someone who seems so cold could sing and act with such emotion. Any exclusive news on when your next album is coming out?

Chen Shu glanced at him. No plans for now.

Duan Xu nodded. That makes sense. You’ve got filming to focus on lately.

As his words fell, the sound of Cui Jiancheng clapping came from nearby.

Alright, everyone disperse. All departments begin preparations!

The media also withdrew in an orderly manner.

Soon, news of Moon in the Mirror’s production launch spread across the entire internet.

Photos taken by various media outlets were released by morning, garnering widespread attention.

It was just ordinary well-wishes for the production launch, and netizens’ focus remained entirely on the handsome men and beautiful women, eagerly discussing the cast’s visual appeal. Everything seemed normal, and He Qiyu didn’t pay much attention at first.

Until the afternoon, when several sets of photos suddenly took a strange turn.

He Qiyu clicked on the images with skyrocketing reposts.

The first was an ordinary group photo.

Perhaps precisely because they worried about such misunderstandings, the next image was a cropped section from the group photo.

It isolated only the upper bodies of Chen Shu and Duan Xu.

Huh?

He Qiyu instinctively brought her phone screen closer.

Were Chen Shu and Duan Xu sharing some private words?

He Qiyu continued scrolling through the images one by one, noticing that Duan Xu and Chen Shu appeared progressively closer in each photo.

There was even one shot where, from the camera angle, Duan Xu’s raised hand was blocked by Chen Shu’s face, creating an optical illusion that strikingly resembled an intimate moment between them.

The comment section was filled with related discussions.

Chen Shu and Duan Xu? They had no previous connection, right? Why do they look so familiar, chatting like nobody else is around!

Two handsome men standing together is such a visual treat. Chen Shu rarely gets this close to anyone, must be true love (dog head emoji)

What should I do? I can’t look away. These two look more compatible together than the official pairing!

The further He Qiyu scrolled, the more her eyebrows furrowed.

After reading the comments, she looked back at Chen Shu.

Sure enough, Duan Xu was trailing closely beside Chen Shu again.

Both were wearing the broad-sleeved robes from the series, holding scripts in their hands as they walked along the perimeter of the set while rehearsing their lines.

Duan Xu kept pointing at the script and asking Chen Shu something.

In their question-and-answer exchange, the intricate ancient costumes tangled with their movements, their backs indeed appearing intimately close from behind.

Meanwhile, the female lead Mu Qingxue sat alone in the rest area, clearly separated from them.

He Qiyu: …

What exactly is going on here?