Who is Helping Me Win by Lying Down [Transmigration] - Chapter 42

Chapter 42

Director Yan. He Qiyu, who had been standing in front of Chen Shu, stepped aside upon seeing Yan Jingchuan.

Chen Shu said, You’re here so early?

Yan Jingchuan looked at him: Are you not welcoming me?

Chen Shu smiled: Of course not, but I was about to leave anyway. You’ve made this trip for nothing.

Leave? Yan Jingchuan turned to He Qiyu, What’s going on?

He Qiyu immediately straightened her back, cleared her throat, and said with exaggerated seriousness: Director Yan, there might be some changes in the casting. The producer just asked Chen Shu to go to the office, but we haven’t had time to discuss the details yet.

Chen Shu didn’t want Yan Jingchuan to get involved in this matter: Let’s go sit down first.

Cui Jiancheng’s eyes darted around, and he proactively said: Director Yan, this way please!

Yan Jingchuan only looked at Chen Shu: Is someone trying to replace you?

You don’t need to worry about it, Chen Shu said. Come on.

He Qiyu grew anxious listening to this and tried to interject, but didn’t dare to interrupt Yan Jingchuan casually.

Her eager expression made the producer following behind them nervous, and he quickly cast a pleading look toward Jiang Ling.

Jiang Ling adjusted her glasses and walked over to Zhang Shi, asking: If I may ask, what brings Director Yan and Assistant Zhang here today?

The situation here was clear at a glance. Zhang Shi had already guessed the general picture after hearing He Qiyu’s words. Seeing Jiang Ling approach, he said bluntly: I’m accompanying Director Yan to visit the set, of course.

Jiang Ling’s mind raced, and she asked again: Then may I ask, what is Director Yan’s relationship with Mr. Chen…?

Hearing her words, Zhang Shi glanced at Gu Wei.

Gu Wei felt stung by his scrutinizing gaze, digging his fingernails into his palm as he lowered his head.

Then he remembered that Chen Shu was also being evaluated like an object in this situation, and forced himself to relax.

There was nothing to be ashamed of.

In the entertainment industry, everyone wants to sleep their way to the top – wasn’t Chen Shu the same!

Also? Zhang Shi said with a laugh, I don’t understand what Secretary Jiang means. Mr. Chen is Director Yan’s friend.

Since Director Yan hadn’t given instructions, he wouldn’t voluntarily reveal the relationship between Chen Shu and Director Yan.

Moreover, the relationship between Chen Shu and Director Yan was definitely not also – Chen Shu had never used Director Yan’s name to seek benefits, and he believed Chen Shu would disdain to do so.

Gu Wei was stunned.

Friend?

Zhang Shi hadn’t spoken loudly, but his voice was clear enough for everyone nearby to hear.

I heard Mr. Chen is filming here. Director Yan came specifically to visit him on set. That’s all.

Gu Wei’s head snapped up!

Zhang Shi was now looking at the producer: Just now He Qiyu mentioned changes in casting. I wonder what kind of changes?

The producer broke out in a cold sweat: Well…

He couldn’t help but look at Jiang Ling again.

Jiang Ling also frowned.

Zhang Shi’s words were ambiguous. She wasn’t clear about the exact relationship between Yan Jingchuan and Chen Shu, but for Yan Jingchuan to personally visit the set, their relationship definitely couldn’t be bad.

To risk offending Yan Jingchuan for a mere bed partner simply wasn’t worth it.

Thinking this, she looked at the producer and shook her head slightly.

The producer breathed a sigh of relief and said: Assistant Zhang, don’t misunderstand. We asked to see Mr. Chen for other matters. There are no casting changes.

What!

Resentment surged in Gu Wei’s eyes, and he instinctively looked at Jiang Ling: Sister Jiang?

Jiang Ling had already stopped walking.

She looked at the two figures walking ahead in the distance, and after Zhang Shi moved away, said to Gu Wei: You won’t get the lead role. You can play the second male lead.

Second male lead?

Still playing supporting role to Chen Shu?!

Gu Wei suppressed the anger in his heart: But—

Alright. Jiang Ling glanced back at him, her warning tone heavy. Director Yan’s friend is not someone I can afford to provoke.

Gu Wei gritted his teeth.

But he couldn’t afford to offend Jiang Ling either, so he lowered his head. I understand.

Moon in the Mirror was Milan Pictures’ most valued script recently, and the director was Cui Jiancheng, renowned in the industry for his ability to mentor actors. If Gu Wei wanted to gain an advantage in this business as quickly as possible, he had to make an appearance in a major production like this to transition his career.

His reputation was already tarnished, and only with Milan’s backing could he completely turn things around.

Sister Jiang?

Hearing the voice from behind, Jiang Ling turned around.

Duan Xu walked over from not far away. It really is you?

He had come specifically after hearing Lai Yan’s account of the situation. The possibility of Chen Shu’s role being snatched by a last-minute addition displeased him greatly.

It had been agreed earlier that all roles would be cast through auditions—even he had followed the rules and accepted a supporting role. How could such irregularities emerge after filming had begun?

Unexpectedly, this last-minute addition was personally brought by Jiang Ling.

On his way over, he’d also heard that Director Yan of the Yan Corporation had come to visit the set—specifically to see Chen Shu. Lai Yan urged him to quickly reconnect with Jiang Ling, lest the situation solidify and the replacement target shift from Chen Shu to him.

Young Master Duan. Jiang Ling nodded in acknowledgment, choosing her words carefully. As far as I know, the lead actor of this series is Chen Shu. Why are you also in this crew?

Duan Xu rubbed his nose. Outmatched in skill—I’m playing the second male lead.

Second male lead?

Seeing how familiar the two appeared, Gu Wei felt a surge of foreboding.

He glanced at Jiang Ling and took half a step forward.

Jiang Ling returned his look briefly before replying to Duan Xu, I see.

Gu Wei lowered his head, his heart clouded with gloom.

Duan Xu had been observing their interaction, and seeing this, he knew Lai Yan’s speculation was likely correct.

He asked, Why does Sister Jiang ask?

Jiang Ling said, Just making conversation. Don’t mind me, Young Master Duan.

The Duan and Li families were cousins by marriage, and their companies collaborated. Though interactions were scarce, blood ties remained, tenuous yet persistent. Damaging harmony over this wasn’t worthwhile.

Duan Xu chuckled, crossing his arms. Of course I don’t mind.

Having wasted enough time here, Jiang Ling didn’t wish to stay longer. After exchanging pleasantries with him, she turned to leave.

Duan Xu didn’t try to stop her, but as Gu Wei passed by, he deliberately bumped into his shoulder and sneered, A flesh peddler like you, trying to steal roles from me? Overestimating yourself.

Gu Wei’s face flushed crimson instantly. What did you say!

Duan Xu shrugged. Just stating facts.

You—!

Jiang Ling looked back. Gu Wei.

Stopped by her, Gu Wei’s face turned even more mottled with rage and humiliation, looking utterly wretched.

Duan Xu laughed again. Dare to do it but not own up to it?

Gu Wei clenched his fists, his breathing trembling. The sting of his nails digging into his palms was nothing compared to the humiliation of being insulted to his face.

Jiang Ling said, Young Master Duan, please don’t make this difficult for me.

Duan Xu finally pursed his lips and waved to Lai Yan. Let’s go.

Without looking back, he headed straight for the director’s office.

But before entering, he saw two people emerging.

It was Chen Shu and Yan Jingchuan.

Pulling the door closed behind him, Chen Shu said, Let’s go to my dressing room.

Yan Jingchuan asked, You don’t want my help?

You’ve helped enough already, Chen Shu replied. Besides, if not this project, there’ll be another.

Yan Jingchuan frowned. But you’ve already invested a lot of effort into this drama.

Chen Shu said, Consider it cutting losses in time.

Duan Xu watched the two chatting casually as they passed by.

Lai Yan was the first to speak up. Director Yan, Teacher Chen.

He knew Chen Shu was a contracted artist under Huayuan Media, but he never expected Chen Shu to be acquainted with Yan Jingchuan.

Hearing Lai Yan’s voice, Yan Jingchuan turned and saw Duan Xu, his gaze sharpening slightly.

Meeting his gaze, Duan Xu felt inexplicable pressure and instinctively glanced at Chen Shu before saying, Director Yan.

Yan Jingchuan also looked back at Chen Shu.

Remembering his previous misunderstanding, Chen Shu chuckled softly.

Yan Jingchuan’s eyes darkened. What are you laughing at?

Chen Shu said, Nothing. Let’s go.

Yan Jingchuan hadn’t fully recovered yet and wasn’t suitable for standing outdoors for long.

Lai Yan watched their retreating figures and said to Duan Xu, Do you think they look alike?

Duan Xu asked, Look like what?

Lai Yan gestured with his chin toward behind them. The one just now.

The one just now?

Gu Wei?

Duan Xu frowned irritably. Like your head!

Lai Yan muttered, If they don’t look alike, they don’t. Why are you so worked up…

Duan Xu couldn’t be bothered with him.

Since Chen Shu had returned to the break room, there was no need to listen to the conversation inside anymore.

Let’s go back too.

With Yan Jingchuan involved, Chen Shu wouldn’t be able to leave even if he wanted to. Better to go back and prepare for filming.

Sure enough.

Not long after, the production assistant came to notify everyone of the afternoon filming schedule.

Chen Shu also received the notice and took Yan Jingchuan around the set.

Cui Jiancheng was in high spirits and said directly upon seeing them, Chen Shu, since Director Yan rarely visits the set, let Qingxue and Duan Xu handle the afternoon scenes. You should spend time with Director Yan.

After all, whenever Chen Shu filmed, the progress became absurdly faster than planned, so there was no need to rush.

Duan Xu thought Chen Shu would refuse.

Usually during filming, Chen Shu even ate his boxed meals by the set to be ready for scenes at any moment. He never delayed filming for personal reasons even for a second. His professionalism made Duan Xu feel ashamed yet somewhat admiring.

But Chen Shu didn’t refuse. Okay.

Duan Xu was taken aback.

As an actor, he was most skilled at capturing and interpreting emotions.

Since joining the crew, although Chen Shu rarely refused others’ requests and seemed easygoing, he actually didn’t form personal relationships with anyone. Apart from rehearsing scenes, his attitude toward Duan Xu, Mu Qingxue, or anyone else remained consistently the same. Even He Qiyu and that assistant couldn’t elicit much emotional reaction from Chen Shu.

He had always thought Chen Shu’s aloofness was bone-deep, and warming him up would be a long, drawn-out marathon.

But seeing him with Yan Jingchuan today made him realize that might not be the case.

Duan Xu looked at the two walking toward the rest area, watching the smile that always played on Chen Shu’s lips when chatting with Yan Jingchuan.

Why was Yan Jingchuan the only exception?

Was it because of the Yan Group that Yan Jingchuan controlled?

—

It seems you’re quite popular in the crew. Yan Jingchuan sat in Chen Shu’s seat and immediately spotted Duan Xu facing Chen Shu.

Chen Shu said casually, Not as much as you, Director Yan.

Then he added, You’ve visited the set and seen the filming area. Rest for a while, then I’ll see you out.

Yan Jingchuan looked at him. In such a hurry to send me away?

Chen Shu said, Once you’ve fully recovered, you can stay as long as you want.

Yan Jingchuan averted his gaze. I’m not as weak as you think.

Chen Shu said, Nor as healthy as you think.

…… Yan Jingchuan recalled every instance when their opinions had diverged and chose not to argue further.

Shortly after, Zhang Shi returned with He Qiyu.

He Qiyu beamed: Chen Shu, it’s all settled. The producer didn’t even mention replacing you.

Mm. Chen Shu wasn’t concerned. The moment Yan Jingchuan appeared, this outcome was inevitable. He simply stood and said, Assistant Zhang, please arrange a car.

Zhang Shi nodded: Alright.

After turning and taking two steps, he realized something was amiss. He stiffened and stole a glance at Yan Jingchuan. Seeing no reaction, he breathed a sigh of relief.

Husbands should be united.

It didn’t matter whose instructions he followed.

Chen Shu didn’t notice Zhang Shi’s subtle reaction. Accompanying Yan Jingchuan to the car, he reached to open the door but was stopped by Yan Jingchuan’s hand.

This is far enough. Zhang Shi can take me back.

Chen Shu looked up at him: Are you sure?

Yan Jingchuan said: Yes.

Chen Shu never interfered with his work. There was no reason to make Chen Shu abandon his responsibilities just to accompany him.

Chen Shu didn’t insist further.

He continued opening the car door, casually grasping the hand blocking his path: Let me help you in.

The sudden warmth enveloping his hand seemed to penetrate through skin, burning hot.

Yan Jingchuan’s arm stiffened slightly.

As the door opened, feeling the pressure from Chen Shu’s palm, he finally stepped forward and leveraged the support to sit inside.

Woof!

Seeing Chen Shu, Wangcai threw himself against the edge of the dog crate and barked.

Chen Shu raised a hand to brace against the headrest behind Yan Jingchuan, leaning down to stroke Wangcai’s head while looking at Yan Jingchuan: You’ve been bringing him along?

The distance closed infinitely, their breaths mingling near ears.

Memories of earlier scenes flashed through Yan Jingchuan’s mind. His fingers tightened gradually around the cane: Mm.

Zhang Shi had just finished instructing the driver when he turned to see Chen Shu practically leaning over Director Yan. His heart nearly stopped.

You two ancestors!

Can’t you save the intimacy for later?!

He quickly cleared his throat: Director Yan, shall we head straight to the hotel?

Chen Shu withdrew his hand.

Just as he was about to step back, Yan Jingchuan suddenly gripped his arm.

Yan Jingchuan gazed into the eyes before him: I’ll take care of Wangcai for the coming period.

Chen Shu glanced at the dog crate placed in the back seat.

It was clear Wangcai had been well cared for.

Alright. Chen Shu said, Then I’ll trouble you with that.

With that, he straightened up and turned to see Zhang Shi’s indescribable expression. What?

Zhang Shi hurriedly composed his features: Nothing. No need to see us off, Mr. Chen. We’ll be going now.

Mm. Chen Shu closed the car door for Yan Jingchuan, watched the vehicle start, then turned back toward the set.

Over the next two months, filming proceeded smoothly without further disruptions. Studio scenes were completed ahead of schedule. After finishing the final shot today, only location filming remained.

After wrapping up, Chen Shu returned to the hotel by car.

Before he could share the news with Yan Jingchuan, he spotted the small suitcase in the living room upon entering.

Hearing the noise, Zhang Shi stood up: Mr. Chen, you’re finally back. Director Yan has been waiting for you.

Chen Shu looked toward Yan Jingchuan.

Yan Jingchuan also rose from the sofa.

Before Chen Shu could speak, he said first: I need to return for a while.