Rebirth 2010, the best

Chapter 314 Secrecy

Chapter 314 Secrecy
(Sorry for the lateness, I forgot to set up automatic updates.)
In fact, Yang Ying and he have always maintained a very good understanding.

Firstly, the two never mentioned each other's lives, and their purpose was quite clear: when one of them had a need, they would take the initiative to make an appointment to meet and be intimate, and then they would go their separate ways when they woke up.

Do not disturb life, do not interfere with life, do not intervene in life.

In this respect, she can be considered a very perfect "friend".

Secondly, their tacit understanding is not only reflected in their familiarity with each other's bodies, but also in a kind of vigilance of "not disturbing each other".

Since they started maintaining this relationship, the first message she sent was always a formulaic question like "Are you busy?" or "Are you there?" And as long as Lu Yao replied, they would start chatting. If Lu Yao didn't reply, she wouldn't send a second message until at least the same day she sent the first one, or until Lu Yao replied.

Furthermore, once the message is sent, it's over; once the conversation is over, it's deleted; and you'll never find a trace of each other on each other's phones again.

So when she didn't receive a reply from Lu Yao, she didn't send a second message.

The two haven't seen each other for a while. Last year, her only notable title was "Goddess of Geeks," but according to what she said before the new year, Huayi Brothers will start helping her build her public image this year, aiming for both film and television roles. Her boyfriend has also introduced her to many resources, and she's visibly busier this year.

After deleting her message, Lu Yao felt a sense of... bewilderment.

It wasn't because of her, but simply because I didn't know where to go.

The lab was closed for the day, and no one was in the dorm. He was actually quite conflicted. For some reason, he felt a sudden urge to confide in someone.

I want to talk to someone to relieve this pressure.

But I don't know who to talk to...

After staring blankly at the sunset for a few seconds, he suddenly took out his phone again, found Yang Ying's WeChat, and asked:
"You're back?"

"Yeah, I got back this morning. I figured you must be busy with work, so I'm only contacting you now. Have you eaten?"

"I ate at school."

Are you at school?

"Correct."

"Will you be back in a bit?"

Upon seeing her message, Lu Yao understood the meaning and said directly:

"Didn't I tell you last time that your studio is a mess?"

"I know, that's why I rented a new place. It's in Tomson Riviera. When are you coming back? Are you free tonight?"

"Tomson Riviera?"

"Yes, it's right next to Fortune Garden. Shall I wait for you by the roadside in my car?"

"Okay, I'll be there right away."

"Okay, call me when you're almost there."

"it is good."

After the chat ended, Lu Yao thought for a moment and decided not to drive. Instead, she left the car at the school, drove out of the campus, and took a taxi to get there.

It's rush hour now, and the traffic jam is terrible.

It took him almost an hour just to get there by car before he finally caught a glimpse of those famous residential buildings across the country.

After sending a WeChat message explaining the situation, Lu Yao stopped the car at the bus stop and got out.

In less than five minutes, a Volkswagen Tiguan with its hazard lights on drove up and stopped in front of Lu Yao.

Lu Yao opened the passenger door and got in.

Wearing a mask, Yang Ying's eyes curved into crescent moons:
"Hehe, the traffic light where I made the U-turn was a little congested."

"It's nothing... A new car? What made you decide to buy this?"

Although he admitted that the Tiguan was a classic car, he felt that it didn't quite match her temperament.

"You should always keep a low profile."

Lu Yao smiled:
"Scared?"

"Well. On one hand, the studio is indeed a bit messy, and on the other hand, I feel it's not good that the studio is in the same neighborhood as yours. What if your girlfriend finds out someday? It wouldn't be appropriate. But... the rent at Tomson Riviera is really expensive."

"How many?"

"Seventy-six thousand a month."

"..."

Lu Yao's lips twitched:
"So tall? How many square meters is it?"

"I rented the smallest unit, 180 square meters. It's not cheap in Fortune Garden either..."

"That's quite expensive..."

The two chatted about the rent as the car drove into the underground parking garage.

Lu Yao then learned that the parking space she rented cost five thousand yuan a month.

In other words, excluding property management fees, water and electricity fees, her monthly rent alone amounts to 80,000 yuan.

"That's so extravagant! One month's rent is equivalent to two months' salary."

Lu Yao sighed.

Upon hearing this, Yang Ying said speechlessly:

"That's because you weren't focusing on the music. Otherwise..."

"Otherwise what?"

Lu Yao casually shrugged:

"No matter what, a new band like ours can't earn that much."

"Humph."

The woman gave a soft hum.

She knew perfectly well what was going on. Putting everything else aside, just looking at how the company fawned over him and how they poured resources into him after finding out about their relationship, if he wanted to be famous... he would have been famous long ago.

Then, the two of them entered the elevator.

Inside the elevator, the two stood far apart, one near the buttons and the other in a corner.

It was as if they were complete strangers.

Fortunately, no one else got into this elevator.

Finally, the two of them went out together and arrived at Yang Ying's rented house.

It was indeed very large; 180 square meters wouldn't be considered a small apartment anywhere. As for the decor, it was alright. Lu Yao didn't pay much attention, but after smelling the odor in the air, she asked:

"Have you cooked?"

"Hmm, did you eat a lot for dinner? If not... you can have some more and try my cooking?"

"Row."

Lu Yao, who had little appetite that evening and only ate a bowl of noodles, nodded and followed her into the kitchen, where she immediately saw a large earthenware pot. Inside, after lifting the lid, was a small chicken.

Boiled meat? Or chicken soup?

"I'll have boiled meat and this soup tonight."

Looking at the box in her hand, Lu Yao asked in puzzlement:
"Miso soup can't compare to chicken soup, can it?"

"But it won't make you fat. Do you want some chicken soup?"

As she spoke, she turned the stove on again in the clay pot:

"It will take about half an hour. If you don't cook it long enough, the chicken soup will have no flavor."

"No need, just boiled is fine, I can't eat much."

"it is good."

She walked to the sink and began washing the vegetables inside.

To be honest... Lu Yao was genuinely surprised.

"I always thought you were the type who never lifted a finger."

"How can it be."

Yang Ying shook her head slightly:

"I rented a place in Hong Kong. Back then, to save money, I had to cook for myself. I'm a very good cook, you'll see in a bit."

Seeing her confident demeanor, Lu Yao didn't say much, but instead asked:

"Do you need my help?"

"No need, I can manage on my own."

"it is good."

Lu Yao responded, turned and walked to the living room, then went to the balcony and looked at the "scenery" outside the window...

The smallest unit in this building is partially obstructed by the two Tomson Riviera towers, so it doesn't offer a full river view. Those two towers with river views are probably much more expensive.

However, it doesn't stop him from spacing out.

He didn't know how much time had passed before he came to his senses and looked at Yang Ying beside him:
"All right?"

"...Is something on your mind?"

Yang Ying asked.

"...You figured it out?"

"I didn't notice it at first, but I realized it only after you didn't notice me for several minutes while I was standing next to you. Now that you've told me, I'm even more certain."

"……ha."

Lu Yao smiled and turned to look.

The food is already on the table.

"Try your cooking."

"Well, let's eat first, and drink some soup first. We can talk about it later."

"it is good."

The two arrived at the dining table. Lu Yao glanced at the poached chicken and shook his head slightly.

"It's a bit overcooked."

"……what?"

Yang Ying was startled:
"Can you accept the level of doneness in Cantonese?"

The level of doneness she was referring to in Cantonese cuisine is when a poached chicken, after being cut open, is still bloody against the bone, and the bone marrow has turned into a paste.

People from Guangdong and Guangxi believe that this level of doneness is the true mark of a premium poached chicken. However, people from inland China generally don't accept this, feeling that the chicken isn't cooked enough...

"I deliberately overcooked it a bit today, in case you couldn't accept it..."

"Tsk, what a pity."

"Hehe... I'll remember next time. But the chicken is very tender right now, have a taste."

"Ah."

Boiled chicken, garlic-flavored greens, a steamer basket containing what appears to be pre-cooked dishes, shrimp dumplings, shrimp shumai, and stir-fried mushrooms with sliced meat.

This is the result of her working for who knows how long.

How much will you get?

Yang Ying asked, holding the bowl.

Lu Yao was momentarily dazed...

However, she quickly regained her composure and shook her head: "I won't eat rice, I'll just have a few bites of vegetables."

"Okay then. Are you sure you don't want to eat rice?"

"Ah."

Seeing that Lu Yao was certain, she served herself a small half-bowl, then took the rice cooker and went straight into the kitchen.

When he came out again, he smiled and said:
"Want me to let you try my fried rice tomorrow morning?"

"Aren't you managing your figure? It's a mixture of sugar and oil, isn't it?"

"I can eat this as a indulgence meal..."

"You can indulge in meals anytime, anywhere, huh...?"

Lu Yao chuckled, picked up a piece of chicken, dipped it in the ginger sauce, and put it in his mouth.

I must say, at least he thinks the taste is quite authentic.

"good to eat."

"Hey hey hey."

Just as they were talking and laughing, the phone suddenly rang.

After glancing at it, he gestured for Yang Ying to hold his hand down, then answered the phone:

"Hey, baby."

"Good morning, kiss kiss kiss..."

The sound of the kiss was so loud that not only Lu Yao, but Yang Ying could hear it clearly.

girlfriend?
A hint of curiosity flashed in her eyes.

Is it that all-powerful General Manager Xu?

After settling down in Shanghai, she gradually heard some rumors about Lu Yao at the company.

It is said that his girlfriend is incredibly capable and powerful.

"What are you doing?"

"Hmm, let's eat."

"You ate a little late today. You usually finish eating around six o'clock. Hehehe... Did you miss me so much that you couldn't eat?"

"I'm eating right now. That means I don't miss you that much."

"Hmph, I'll give you a chance, rephrase your words again!"

"miss you."

"Hehehe~"

Yang Ying remained silent and ate her meal quietly.

Hu Li called for no other reason than to say good morning as usual.

For the couple, whose long-distance and cross-border relationships are now commonplace, this rhythm is quite familiar.

Hu Li told him what she planned to do that day, then hung up the phone without disturbing her boyfriend's meal.

Even though they were separated by mountains and seas, she couldn't tell if her boyfriend had anything on his mind.

After hanging up the phone, Lu Yao didn't say anything, and the two continued eating. Until... Yang Ying suddenly said:
"Are you in a bad mood today because of her?"

Lu Yao, who was gnawing on chicken, was taken aback.

I couldn't help but recall Tian Dazhuang's words...

I thought to myself, did I really wear my worries on my sleeve?
Seeing his bewildered expression, the woman pondered for a moment, then stood up, opened the cabinet next to the dining table, and took out a bottle of red wine.

"Shall I have a drink with you?"

"...Are you sure you're here to keep me company, and not trying to get me drunk?"

"determine."

She nodded:
"You seem to have something on your mind. I'd be happy to be your confidante. You can't hold your liquor, so have a drink, open up, and talk to me. Letting go of the pressure will make you feel better."

Lu Yao's lack of rebuttal after she finished speaking actually further confirmed her speculation.

So, one glass of red wine for each of them:
"cheers."

With a "clink," the cups collided.

Lu Yao took a sip of the sour wine and smiled:
"It feels really strange to drink alcohol after a full meal."

"That's because you're not used to it."

Yang Ying shook her head:

“When I used to drink with those bosses, I would eat a bowl of noodles beforehand and then start drinking. Otherwise, it’s too easy to get drunk on an empty stomach.”

"...Accompany the boss?"

Seeing Lu Yao's surprised expression, she nodded:

"Yeah. A young model can't support herself. The income is too low. Accompanying the boss is a gray income. Although it's not very respectable, at least you get more."

"...Why does that sound like something a hostess would do?"

"I guess so. Hmm... high-end escort service?"

She didn't seem ashamed of her past at all; she simply held up her glass and continued:

"But there's no other way... If you want to be famous, if you want to get ahead, you have to do this. Otherwise, think about it, there are so many young models, if you don't compete, plenty of others will. So you can only please your agent, please your company, please these big spenders... I'm actually quite lucky. Because my looks are more in line with Japanese aesthetics, I was discovered by Sony and they took me there. The income there is higher, and the competition is less intense than in Hong Kong. Hong Kong... is too small."

"Then why did you become a young model?"

Seeing Lu Yao's somewhat curious gaze, her answer was also quite frank:

"I want to make money, I want to be a star, I want to live a glamorous life every day."

"Uh...is it that straightforward?"

"Of course. I entered this industry when I was sixteen. At first, I was full of hope... but after I found that this industry is more realistic than any other industry, I wanted to make it even more."

"...Your thought process is quite unique."

"why?"

"Because when most people see the reality of this industry, they will back down, right? After all, to truly become famous in this industry, it's not just about luck."

"That's true...like you."

"I?"

"Um……"

Under Lu Yao's puzzled gaze, she suddenly asked:
"Are you interested in An Yixuan? What about Sister Xiaoxiong?"

"...?"

Lu Yao became increasingly puzzled:

"What do you mean?"

“They’ve been fawning over me. Especially after we ate together last time, they’ve been trying to please me in every way… If you want to taste them, I can send them to your bed.”

"...???"

Putting aside whether the two of them liked each other or not, just listening to Yang Ying's words left him speechless:

"What? You want to become a pimp?"

"I'm not a pimp. If you like, I'll send them to you. They're currying favor with me because they want to get to know you. They always have to ask your opinion first."

"So realistic?"

"Yes, that's how realistic it is for them."

The woman nodded again:

"Like you said, to become famous here, it's not just about luck, you also need a powerful backer. I understood this when I first entered the industry at 15, because of some things that happened. So, I have to cling to your coattails!"

She smiled and handed the cup back to me again:

"Honorable sponsor, thank you! Hehe~"

"..."

Lu Yao rolled her eyes, but still held out the cup to him.

He didn't mention the topic of those two at all.

I'm not really interested.

After taking only one sip, he said:
"So... you've actually seen a lot of things over the years?"

"Yeah. I've seen and heard all sorts of ridiculous things. I've regretted whether my decision to drop out of school was too hasty, and I remember what my teacher once told me: 'You're destined to hang out with thugs for the rest of your life'... But I still managed to get through it all step by step through my own efforts."

"..."

Hearing this, he understood that she must also have a past.

Or perhaps it's a childhood trauma.

He just wasn't interested in listening.

There are already enough bad things to do.

Why add another burden to yourself?

Just as I was thinking about it, I heard her say:
"So...can you tell me why you're in a bad mood today? I know I'm not as smart as you. But...I've been in this industry for many years, and as we young models say: there's no worse industry than the entertainment industry. I've seen and experienced a lot. You...want to tell me? Maybe I can give you some advice based on what I've seen and heard."

"Uh……"

Upon hearing this, Lu Yao looked up at the woman.

He lowered his head again, his gaze falling on his wine glass.

A few seconds later, to Yang Ying's astonishment, he downed the wine in his glass in one gulp.

He pushed forward, signaling her to pour the wine.

As Yang Ying was pouring the wine from the bottle, she heard a voice say:
"I cheated on my husband."

The ruby-red liquor swayed slightly.

Then everything returned to normal.

Soon, a glass was filled, and after being pushed in front of Lu Yao, she nodded:
"Yes, me too."

"..."

Seeing his speechless expression, she smiled and said:

"So, we're in the same boat, aren't we?"