Hear this life

In the first few days, Wen Tingli felt extremely uncomfortable. She often felt that her feet were not firmly on the ground, but floating in the air. A gust of wind would blow away all the applause and flowers in front of her.

However, every morning when she opened her eyes, everything around her reminded her that this was not a dream.

On the bedside table was a copy of Shanghai Stars. Every day when she entered the bedroom, she could see her smiling face on the cover of the magazine. This big weekly magazine, which she used to read before bed, had just named her "the most watched new movie star of the year."

On the chest of drawers in the living room were rows of newly developed photos, which were taken when she was invited to cut the ribbon at the Xin Yuxuan Hotel last week. After the event, the owner of the famous New Century Photo Studio specially developed them for her and sent them to her.

Not only in this area, but also in other places, she has been frequently invited to events.

Hangzhou's Jincheng Cinema opened, and the first film screened was "Beauty of the South". For this reason, the theater manager specially invited the entire crew to watch the ceremony. During the days in Hangzhou, she felt like the center of attention. The entrance of the hotel was filled with fruit baskets and flowers sent by local fans, and a large number of newspaper reporters came to interview her every day. No matter where she went, there was warm applause and gazes following her.

One day, Xiao Taozi went out with Zhou's wife and was shocked by the giant poster in the window. When they came back, they excitedly shouted "Sister is in the glass window" and "She looks like a big star."

These were scenes that Wen Tingli had never dreamed of before.

She originally thought that this was just a passing fad, but half a month after the film was released, it broke the record for the highest attendance in recent years, and invitations from all sides not only did not decrease, but increased instead.

Huang Yuanshan was happy, but he reminded Wen Tingli: "You have to be careful. People like to join in the fun. When the wind is right, everyone will praise you. When the wind is wrong, these exaggerated praises will immediately turn into vicious attacks. No matter whether the outside world is slandering or praising you, you should not take it seriously. You just need to work diligently and do your job well. Also, the film market in Shanghai is big and small. Once you become popular, others will have fewer opportunities. Be careful that someone is behind your back to harm you for their own benefit. During this period, you must be careful in what you say and do, and don't let anyone catch you."

When it comes to film art, Wen Tingli has always taken Huang Yuanshan's words as her guiding principle and has been nodding her head in agreement.

As he was talking, Liu Menglin pushed the door open and showed Wen Tingli a warm yet dignified smile: "The domestic products market in Nanshi will open tomorrow. I would like to invite you to cut the ribbon. I have accepted it for you."

Without waiting for Wen Tingli to respond, he smiled and said, "I heard that they originally wanted to ask Yu Peiling to cut the ribbon, but a dark horse, "Beauty of the South", showed up halfway, and the boss changed the person without saying a word. Business people are always like this."

Huang Yuanshan was stunned: "It has always been Chen Maoqing who helped Yu Peiling to snatch opportunities from others. This time someone interfered, wouldn't Chen be so angry that he would vomit blood?"

"Who cares? Isn't Yu Peiling doing well enough these past two years? Huamei Films has also made a lot of money. They should give way when it's time." Liu Menglin turned around and continued to talk to Wen Tingli, "By the way, we have plans for Saturday. There was a flood in the south recently, and the Film and Drama Association plans to hold a disaster relief fundraising gala at the Paramount. The company decided to send you as a representative. You might as well perform the theme song of "Beauty of the South" and promote our play to the distinguished guests from out of town."

Wen Tingli knew that Liu Menglin believed in the principle of "strike while the iron is hot" when creating stars. He believed that the audience's preferences were the most fickle, and that even the most popular actors would eventually become outdated. A smart actor should make more money for the company while he was popular, so that no one would buy his appearance in the future. Adhering to this principle, he wanted to use her like a donkey during this period of time.

All in all, she could only sleep four hours a day during this month. Even with a strong body, it was a bit unbearable.

But she knew very well that if she didn't take the job, there would be others who would. If she didn't do it, it would not be her turn to do it in the future.

"it is good."

She agreed so readily that Liu Menglin was naturally delighted. He lighted the cigar in his hand and said to Huang Yuanshan, "Ms. Wen's greatest strength is that she knows how to deal with the times. If it were someone else, they would become famous all of a sudden and would inevitably lose track of their own abilities. They would either go against the company or offend the audience with a bad face. The most hateful thing is that the nature of these people cannot be seen at the beginning, and their true colors are revealed only after they become famous. Fortunately, the company did not support the wrong person this time. Miss Wen is really dedicated to her work."

Wen Tingli added: "But I have to tell you in advance. I have some personal matters to attend to on Friday. You are not allowed to arrange any activities for me on that day."

Liu Menglin had just praised Wen Tingli for her professionalism, so he didn't want to contradict himself, so he could only respond awkwardly.

When they came out, Huang Yuanshan suppressed his smile and said to Wen Tingli, "There are so many young actors in the company, and you are the only one who can control him. You have been exhausted recently, so why not take a good rest at home on Friday?"

Wen Tingli took out an invitation and handed it to Huang Yuanshan: "Actually, I have already made plans for that day. I wonder if Sister Huang is willing to come and show up."

She decided to reward her friends since they had helped her with the contract matters a while ago.

On Friday, Wen Tingli arranged for Mrs. Zhou to buy fruits and pastries early, and she called the hotel to reserve a sumptuous meal. At nine o'clock, she went to visit Principal Zou with a gift box.

Before going out, she covered herself up tightly with a scarf and sunglasses. She used to think those stars were too exaggerated when she read newspapers, but now it was her turn, she realized how much trouble she could save by doing this.

Before the car arrived at the Zou Mansion, Wen Tingli looked outside intentionally or unintentionally. The place outside the Zou family's gate was empty, and the familiar Rolls-Royce cars were not parked there.

As soon as the doorbell rang, Principal Zou came over to open the door: "Come in."

After entering the room, Wen Tingli took off her sunglasses and said, "Please forgive my impoliteness."

Principal Zou laughed and said, "No need to explain, I understand everything. Don't look at my age, I also like to read some movie tabloids on weekdays. You are a big star now, is it troublesome for you to go out?"

Wen Tingli stepped forward and hugged Principal Zou.

"Last time I was in a hurry to raise money, you sent me three thousand dollars without saying a word. Your love and care for students is very touching. I think I have to return the money in person to show my gratitude and respect for you. You are really a good principal."

Principal Zou took Wen Tingli to sit in the living room and asked her about her life with concern: "When will Hujiang University start? Will there be filming in the new semester?"

"I am very busy, but as for the new play, since I haven't signed a long-term contract with the company, I have to see what the company plans to do next."

Principal Zou said with emotion: "I used to worry about where you would get the money to pay for your four years of university tuition. I never thought that in such a short time, I no longer have to worry about your financial problems. I am really happy for you."

This brought back Wen Tingli's painful memories of her father's serious illness. Her nose ached, and she just smiled: "Principal Zou."

Principal Zou said sincerely, "Now the hardship has finally paid off. I don't know much about your business, but the temptations faced by stars are huge. I hope you can persist in completing your university studies. First, the school's courses will be very helpful for you to improve your cultivation as an actor. Second, let me say something unpleasant: flowers do not last forever. You have a university degree, so no matter what happens in the future, you will not be completely without a way out... Don't blame Principal Zou for being abrupt, right?"

"How could that be?! These are all your sincere words. Don't worry, I went to film in order to raise money for college tuition. I have never forgotten my original intention."

At this time, a middle-aged maid named A Xi came out to serve tea. She seemed to be full of curiosity about Wen Tingli, and her eyes seemed to be fixed on Wen Tingli.

Principal Zou smiled helplessly: "Ah Xi likes watching movies very much. I guess she recognized you. Don't worry about her. Try this snack."

Wen Tingli's eyes lit up when she tasted it. This dessert was filled with chocolate. If Xiao Taozi had it, she would not know how she would like it. She hurriedly asked, "Where did you buy this?"

Principal Zou looked bewildered, and Ah Xi responded enthusiastically, "These were all bought by Mr. Lu a few days ago. I'll ask Mr. Lu for you later."

Wen Tingli stopped talking immediately. Principal Zou thought for a moment, then stood up and walked to the phone: "I'll ask him for you."

Wen Tingli hurried forward to stop him: "I'm just asking casually, you don't have to--"

Principal Zou smiled and shook his head: "It just so happens that I have something else to ask him."

The call was quickly connected, and Principal Zou said to the other end: "Hello, this is Zou Zheping, I'm looking for Shicheng. Is he bidding at the Lijing Hotel? Very well, could you please tell me his private room phone number... 8-0-5, yes."

The second call took several rings before it was connected, and there was a buzzing noise coming from the receiver. Wen Tingli's back suddenly felt like an electric current was running through her, and she felt a slight numbness. Her intuition told her that it was Lu Shicheng.

As expected, Principal Zou smiled and said, "Shicheng, I hope I am not disturbing you at work. Then I will tell you straight away. There has been a disaster in the south recently, and I want to organize a charity donation campaign with all the major middle schools in Shanghai. Tomorrow I will have someone send you the details of the campaign for your review. If you have no objection, please take some time to come to the school and sign it."

I don’t know what Lu Shicheng said on the other end, but the smile on Principal Zou’s face widened.

"Kid, you're always considerate of others. I won't send the documents yet. Wait for you to come directly tomorrow morning."

Wen Tingli was listening attentively when Ah Xi came over and whispered to her, "Miss Wen, you are so popular recently, you must know a lot of people in your industry. I wonder if you know a movie manager in his forties? He is short."

The range was too broad. Wen Tingli had no idea for a moment and shook her head with a smile.

Ah Xi kept talking, "Don't you think it's strange? The day before yesterday, I went out to buy groceries and was stopped by this man for no reason. He first said a lot of flattering words to me, then asked me if I knew Mr. Lu, and finally stuffed me with a handful of banknotes and a phone number. He said that as long as Mr. Lu came to Principal Zou's house, he would call him immediately, and said that there would be another reward after the matter was completed. How dare I take his money? I came back and told Principal Zou about it, and she told me not to pay any attention to it. The strange thing is that even Principal Zou didn't know who this man was." Wen Tingli looked thoughtful, "I don't think this man is necessarily a movie manager. Maybe he just wants to do some business with the Lu family. You are right to ignore him."

Ah Xi said happily, like a child who had been praised, "Don't worry, I won't pay any attention to him. Miss Wen, your acting was so good. I cried five or six times in the cinema that day."

Wen Tingli was delighted and turned around to take out a photo of herself from her purse with her signature on the back. She had prepared dozens of them so that she could give back to new fans anytime and anywhere. This was a method taught to her by Wen Guanhua, an old senior in the company.

She solemnly handed the photo to Ah Xi.

"Thank you for your kindness."

Ah Xi was becoming more and more incoherent: "Miss Wen, you are so kind. To be honest, my ticket was given to me by Manager Xu of the Lu family. I had nothing to do that day, so I dragged a few old sisters to watch it. Guess what, within a few days, we spontaneously bought tickets to watch the second and third shows! You are the best actress I have ever seen who can act in crying scenes. Now all of us old sisters have become fans of Miss Wen."

"Manager Xu?"

"Yes." Ah Xi nodded. "On the first day of the release, Manager Xu gave Principal Zou two tickets. Principal Zou was a little worried about the box office performance at the beginning, and he said a long time ago that he would bring more friends to show his support. I guess they didn't expect the movie to be so popular as soon as it was released."

I heard Principal Zou say, "The snacks you sent over the other day were very good. One of my students wants to know which store you bought them from."

Wen Tingli hurriedly lowered her head to drink tea.

"Then please ask Manager Wang."

After a while, Manager Wang called. After listening to a few words, Principal Zou smiled and said to Wen Tingli, "I bought it on the first floor of Daxing Department Store."

When Principal Zou hung up the phone and came over, Wen Tingli stood up and said awkwardly, "It was just a casual question, but you bothered the principal to find someone to ask."

"What's the big deal? Shicheng is a very easy-going person and won't find it troublesome." Principal Zou suddenly looked at Wen Tingli strangely. "Hey, did you know that Shicheng's muteness was cured? I just talked to him for such a long time, but you didn't seem surprised."

Wen Tingli answered vaguely, "I happened to run into Mr. Kuang a few days ago, and heard him talk about Mr. Lu's recovery from muteness."

This time, Principal Zou's gaze lingered on Wen Tingli's face for an unusually long time, but she could tell that Wen Tingli didn't want to discuss this topic. Although she was confused, she didn't ask further questions relying on her status as an elder. After chatting for a few more words, Wen Tingli was about to leave. Ah Xi excitedly took out a few bottles of juice and said, "This was also sent by Mr. Lu a few days ago. Miss Wen, please try it before you leave."

Wen Tingli didn't want to take it at first, but when she looked closely, she saw "Xi Li Pear Juice" printed on the bottle.

Principal Zou smiled and slapped his forehead, "I forgot there was this. This juice is made from crushed fresh pears. It tastes very sweet. Take a few more bottles back. Kuang Zhilin said this is a new product made by the candy factory under the Lu family. It is planned to be launched next month, and they are preparing to find a celebrity to advertise it."

Wen Tingli pretended to ask casually: "Did Mr. Kuang say who he wanted to find to place the advertisement?"

"I don't know that."

On the way back, Wen Tingli became more and more confused, so she simply asked the driver, Lao Huang, to stop the car, got off and bought two newspapers to read.

The supplement was filled with advertisements from major celebrities. Yu Peiling alone had three advertisements: Guoguang Honey Soap, Dalu Car Rental, and Zhenmeili Vanishing Cream.

The Yuanmeng brand bicycle advertisement she shot was also posted in a prominent position. I looked around but didn't see any advertisements for Xili Pear Juice.

When I got home, I heard Zhao Qingluo scolding me as soon as I entered the door: "You are such a rude person. You invited us to your home, but you ran away!"

Wen Tingli hurried into the kitchen to help Mrs. Zhou serve the dishes, and placed several bottles of Xili pear juice next to the guests. Yue Zhaoyun, who was sitting at the top, picked up the bottle curiously and looked at it: "I have never seen this foreign soda before, where did you buy it?"

"Principal Zou gave it to me."

Dong Qinfang said, "This is not foreign soda. This is an authentic Chinese product made by the Lu family. Their goal is to grab the market share from foreign soda. Now all places are boycotting foreign products. This pear juice tastes good and can moisturize the lungs. If we advertise it in the future, we won't have to worry about sales."

"Sister Qinfang, how do you know everything?"

"She is an industrialist. She knows everything about the big industrialists in Shanghai. Wait, I heard that the Lu family wants to find Yu Peiling to advertise, and Chen Maoqing is spreading the news everywhere."

Gao Xiaowen was the first to raise the glass in her hand: "Who cares about Chen Maoqing and Zhang Maoqing? Don't forget that today we are here to celebrate Wen Tingli's success! Wen Tingli, you'd better stay famous!"

Everyone shouted excitedly: "Keep it red!"

This lunch full of friendship lasted until the night. When Wen Tingli woke up the next morning, she was still a little drunk. The company called her and urged her to go out, saying that a big company wanted her to shoot an advertisement.

Wen Tingli's heart moved.

Big business, advertising!

She got out of bed, took out a contract from the suitcase under the bed, and dressed up as quickly as possible to go out.

After finally arriving at the company, he was no longer in a hurry and walked upstairs slowly to find Liu Menglin, thinking about what he would say as the first sentence when he met the boss of the "big trading company". He used all his accents along the way, slowly opened the door, and the smile on his face froze.

"This is Miss Wen Tingli." Liu Menglin waved at Wen Tingli, "This is Manager Chang of Meicheng Company. Xiao Wen, Manager Chang wants you to advertise their company's newly launched health-preserving soup."

Manager Chang's eyes lit up involuntarily: "Miss Wen is even more beautiful than on the screen. Nice to meet you, nice to meet you."

Wen Tingli could only smile and stepped forward to shake hands: "I've heard a lot about you, I've heard a lot about you."

The two sides talked for half an hour. Liu Menglin personally sent Manager Chang downstairs. When he came back, he saw Wen Tingli rummaging through his desk. "What are you looking for?"

"Except for Meicheng Company, no other business has asked me to shoot an advertisement in the past two days?"

"If there is, didn't I tell you just now? Go away, what are you looking for?" Liu Menglin pushed Wen Tingli aside and suddenly said, "Wait, do you want to know about the Lu family's advertisement?"

Wen Tingli said nothing.

Liu Menglin smiled, "As soon as I heard about this yesterday, I called Mr. Lu to recommend you. He is a long-term partner of our company. Since he wants to shoot commercials, he should give priority to our stars. Who knew that it was Mr. Kuang who answered the phone yesterday. When Mr. Kuang heard your name, he just said that the matter had not been officially launched. I believed it and didn't talk to him anymore. I never thought that I would hear that they were going to decide on Yu Peiling? I guess Chen Maoqing is very happy now. The Lu family is rich and powerful. The contract is signed for several years. Yu Peiling will not worry about not being able to maintain exposure in front of the public. It is said that Mr. Lu personally nodded to this matter."

Wen Tingli went downstairs before she finished listening. An hour later, Liu Menglin sent someone to find her and said that Kuang Zhilin had come and asked her to come upstairs to discuss important matters.

Liu Menglin actually arranged a separate meeting room for Kuang Zhilin. When he pushed the door open, he saw Kuang Zhilin sitting alone inside.

Wen Tingli smiled naturally: "Mr. Kuang, long time no see."

Kuang Zhilin stood up and shook her hand: "Congratulations, Miss Wen. Your first film has achieved such great success. It is truly cause for celebration!"

Wen Tingli was secretly impressed. She had dealt with Kuang Zhilin so many times and had never seen him say anything impolite. And even though he was so wary of him, this congratulation did not sound fake at all. So she also said cordially, "Thank you, Mr. Kuang."

Turning her head, she saw a stack of paper contracts on the coffee table. She pretended not to know his intentions and sat on the sofa quietly waiting for him to speak. This was how it was in social occasions. She was very clear about her current weight. Since Kuang Zhilin was the one seeking cooperation, the initiative and the right to speak were in her hands.

(End of this chapter)