Chapter 45: Sending a Pillow When You're Drowsy

Cai Yining initially wanted to maintain her composure in front of Zhang Yang, but his unflappable demeanor, as if he had everything under control, made it impossible for her to hold back.

Zhang Yang was clearly too formidable now; she suspected he must have already seen through some of her intentions. Wouldn’t he be worried that she might block his character from being cast, preventing him from playing Cen Chong?

“K-sis is a smart person, so why would I fear you?” Zhang Yang asked calmly before Cai Yining could speak further. “Signing the contract benefits all three parties: I’ll be delighted to get the role, Director Chen will be thrilled to find a suitable actor, and Tangren makes a small profit while K-sis can use this opportunity to build connections with Director Chen.”

“Not signing results in losses for everyone: I’d harbor resentment towards K-sis and your company, Director Chen might think less of Tangren’s transparency and blame you, and Tangren misses out on profits while K-sis ends up with new enemies.”

“Or perhaps…I, Zhang Yang, am so exceptional that you’re willing to risk ruining my career for three years just to force me into renewing our contract?”

Cai Yining fell silent.

These pros and cons were clear enough that anyone who wasn’t foolish would know how to choose.

In reality, there were even more implications at play, such as Tangren’s reputation within the industry.

Unless Zhang Yang had truly offended her deeply, she had no reason to bury his career.

“It seems that two years of serious study have indeed brought you great progress—not just in demeanor and acting skills.”

With those words hanging in the air, Cai Yining slipped into the back seat of her car, instructing the driver to start the engine.

She left unsaid that if Zhang Yang continued to excel at this rate, she would find it increasingly difficult to resist certain impulses.

Unless, of course, he suddenly became so exceptional as to be out of her league—an absolute impossibility.

Watching until the vehicle disappeared around the street corner, Zhang Yang turned and walked into the restaurant, greeting Nazha standing behind the glass door.

“When did you learn to eavesdrop?” Zhang Yang’s tone was teasing.

“I’m not eavesdropping on purpose,” Nazha said, walking out with confidence despite her unease. “Brother Yang, what you were saying earlier with K-sis makes sense logically, but…”

Zhang Yang stared at Nazha, a smile tugging at his lips, anticipating her next words.

“But, K-sis is a woman,” Nazha finished.

Sometimes, women aren’t always entirely rational.

Even someone like Cai Yining, a seasoned businesswoman, couldn’t escape moments of capriciousness.

Zhang Yang nodded slightly. “Good, you’ve learned to think for yourself.”

Nazha blinked, then cautiously asked, “Aren’t you afraid?”

“If K-sis isn’t being rational, I’ll just have to help her be rational,” Zhang Yang said with a smile. “Have you forgotten how we resolved your Zhao Jingniang role?”

“Even if K-sis tries to bind me with contracts, I can always sign on as martial arts advisor directly with Director Chen. Tangren would have no control over me, yet I’d still receive my due compensation—and even pocket extra by cutting out middlemen.”

“I’m certain I’ll land the fight stand-in gig; there’s simply no one better suited for it in Director Chen’s eyes. However, since it’s an uncontracted supporting role, some risks remain—Director Chen could switch actors at will, but likewise, I’m free to leave anytime. It keeps things fair between us.

“At the end of the day, this is just a minor part. Why would Director Chen tarnish his reputation over such a small matter? In terms of fight scenes, he needs me more than I need him—he holds all the cards.”

“As for Cai Yinong, she’ll likely end up losing more than gaining from any interference.”

Nazha was left speechless.

Being clever sure seems exhausting, he thought.

“Good to hear you won’t face any issues,” Nazha smiled, changing the subject lightly.

Zhang Yang nodded. “Get some rest. You’re wrapping up tomorrow morning after the shoot.”

His first ever character wrap-up—a momentous occasion indeed.

Nazha lightly touched her chin, anticipation building.

The next day.

At a nun’s convent.

Under Zhao Jingniang’s watchful gaze, Zhang Yang departed, looking dejected.

Flowers may bloom with affection, but flowing water knows no care; all for naught, this deep-felt love.

“Sister Ya,” he murmured, “I’ve become just like you in the end.”

“Cut!”

Lin Feng shouted.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let’s applaud Nazha on completing her role!” Lin Feng led the clap.

The crew members generously joined in, showing their support.

Over time, they had grown fond of Nazha—fair-skinned and lovely, yet with a naive charm—and Zhang Yang, who often treated them to snacks and fruits, knew how to make everyone feel appreciated.

“Well done, junior sister.” Zhang Yang handed her a box thoughtfully prepared earlier.

“What’s this?” Nazha opened it to find several photographs inside.

There were pictures of herself and Zhang Yang in costume together, along with group shots from their small film crew. Each photo was dated March 28th—a memento indeed.

“Thank you, Brother Yang.” Nazha smiled sweetly, her eyes betraying unhidden emotions.

Zhang Yang seemed oblivious, chuckling softly, “You’re finished filming, but I’m not quite yet. So, why don’t you continue as my assistant?”

“I’ll definitely do my best,” Nazha assured him.

The next few days were filled with the usual hectic filming schedule.

By the afternoon of the following day, Zhang Yang had finished his last scene, marking the end of his role in the drama.

Lin Zuiwei, ever gracious, treated both him and Nazha to dinner as a farewell celebration for their completed roles.

“Don’t forget to join us for the wrap party once the entire crew is done filming,” Lin Zuiwei invited Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang eagerly accepted this opportunity to network without hesitation.

Early the next morning, he checked out of the hotel arranged by Prestige Imperial Concubine and contacted the production team of Four Great Detectives to arrange accommodations at their designated lodging.

Glancing at the clock, Zhang Yang called out to Nazha, “Let’s grab some remedies for bruises and sprains, especially red oil.”

“The Four Great Detectives is an action movie—is there going to be tons of fight scenes?” Nazha asked, perhaps revealing her naivety on the subject.

Instead of mocking her, Zhang Yang patiently explained, “Director Chen plans many wire-action sequences in this film, which can lead to strains and injuries easily. If not tended to promptly, these could turn into chronic issues later.”

Nazha nodded thoughtfully, inwardly acknowledging how demanding action films must be to shoot.

With Nazha in tow, Zhang Yang visited a nearby pharmacy to stock up on necessary supplies before heading straight to the set to report for duty.

When they arrived at the set, the crew was filming a chase scene.

Afterward, Zhang Yang took Naza around backstage, introducing him to some of his friends in the industry. They chatted about various things, including recent trends in action movies and the latest blockbusters.

At one point during their tour, they stumbled upon Zheng Zhongji, a famous actor known for playing martial arts heroes in wuxia films. He was resting between takes, surrounded by his entourage.

“Ah, Mr. Zheng! How’ve you been?” Zhang Yang greeted him warmly.

Zheng Zhongji looked up from his phone and smiled. “Not bad, young man. Not bad at all. You’re doing well for yourself.”

Naza noticed that despite being quite famous, Zheng Zhongji seemed genuinely approachable and friendly. It was an unexpected sight compared to what he’d seen back home.

As they continued chatting, Zhang Yang leaned over to whisper into Naza’s ear, “See how relaxed he is? That’s because here, actors don’t need to put on airs or act aloof. Everyone treats each other with respect, regardless of fame or status.”

Naza nodded, taking note of this cultural difference. In his experience, celebrities often maintained a certain distance from others, but it seemed things were different here.

After bidding farewell to everyone else, looking every bit the hero in wuxia “Sure, I’ll be fine,” Chen Jia Shang.”