"Alright, Miss Tang," Gu Yan said, adjusting the camera lens as I took my position. "Let's start with something simple. Hold the wine glass, tilt your chin slightly, and look toward the light—like you're at a party, but your mind is somewhere else."
I nodded, taking a steadying breath before doing as he said. The crystal glass caught the light beautifully, and I tried to bring that subtle loneliness into my expression, just as he described.
"Perfect," he said, clicking a few shots. "Now, sit on the sofa. One leg crossed, arm relaxed. Give me something confident—charming, but not arrogant."
I did as instructed, my back straight and my lips curving into a soft, teasing smile. The camera shutter clicked rapidly.
"Good! Now, let's switch the mood. Think of sadness—like you've lost something precious."
That one was unexpectedly easy. I lowered my gaze, letting my expression soften, and felt a faint sting behind my eyes. The click of the camera slowed down, almost in rhythm with my breath.
"Beautiful," Gu Yan murmured. "So beautiful...."
Then came the playful concept. I was handed a deck of playing cards. My character loved playing cards, so I quickly took my pose as he instructed and gave a mysterious, playful smile towards the camera.
The last set was the most awkward. "Lie down on the bed," Gu Yan said, lowering his camera slightly. "Close your eyes and go to sleep."
I chuckled at his instruction as I lay on the bed. A few minutes and a dozen clicks later, it was over.
"Cut! That's a wrap for Miss Tang," Director Ye announced.
Relief flooded through me as I sat up. Both Gu Yan and Director Ye approached me, smiling. "You did great," Director Ye said, nodding approvingly. "Better than I expected for someone new. Keep it up."
"Thank you, Director Ye," I said sincerely.
He gave a short laugh. "Go home and rest. Your part for today is done. Remember to exercise, maintain your figure, and check your messages—my assistant will inform you regarding your shooting dates."
"Got it," I said, bowing slightly before turning to leave.
But before I could take more than a few steps, I heard Gu Yan call out, "Wait, Miss Tang!"
I stopped and turned around, surprised. He was walking toward me, camera still in hand, eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "Would you…" He hesitated, then smiled brightly. "Would you be my muse for my next project?"
For a moment, I thought I'd misheard him. "Your… muse?" I repeated, blinking.
"Yes!" he said, nodding excitedly. "You have this rare quality—graceful but mysterious. The moment I started shooting, I knew it. You're perfect for my next project."
I stood there in stunned silence, not because I didn't want to agree, but because I never dreamed of landing such an opportunity.
Gu Yan took my silence for my hesitation, so he quickly stepped closer. "Please, Miss Tang. Say yes! You'll be doing me a huge favor. Earlier, I was planning on hiring a model, but after meeting you, I think you will be my perfect muse."
His enthusiasm was so genuine that I couldn't help but laugh softly. "Alright," I said finally, smiling. "I'd be honored to work as your muse, Mr. Gu."
His face lit up instantly. "Really? That's great!" He held out his phone eagerly. "Let's exchange numbers. I'll contact you once the project details are finalized."
We exchanged contacts, and after a few more words of thanks, I excused myself.
Back in the makeup room, the buzz of excitement from earlier slowly faded into quiet. Yun Si had already left after dropping me off, so it was just me and the makeup artist and hair stylist.
The makeup artist helped me in removing the makeup carefully, while the hairstylist undid my hair. I quickly walked into the changing room to take off my red gown.
After changing back into my own clothes, I grabbed my bag and slung it over my shoulder. The room was quiet now, the faint smell of hairspray still lingering in the air.
As I stepped out of the makeup room, I nearly bumped into Li Yufei, who was standing in the hallway, scrolling through her phone. When she saw me, her lips curved into a friendly smile.
"Hey, Xiyu," she said cheerfully. "We're having a small celebration party at the club tonight. You should come! It'll be fun."
I smiled politely. "Thank you for inviting me, but I think I'll pass."
Li Yufei shrugged with an easy grin. "Suit yourself. But next time, you're not escaping."
"Deal," I said with a laugh before excusing myself.
I continued walking down the hallway, adjusting the strap of my bag when I noticed a small crowd approaching from the other side. Leading them was none other than An Yuwei, the female lead of the drama.
She looked stunning in her outfit, every bit the star she was, with assistants trailing behind her carrying scripts, coffee, and other things.
As we crossed paths, I gave her a polite nod. "Miss An."
She returned the gesture with a faint smile and walked past, her entourage following closely.
Just as I stepped out of the building, my phone buzzed in my hand. Seeing Yun Si's name flash across the screen, I immediately picked up.
"Hey, how did the photoshoot go?"
I couldn't help but smile. "It went really well! The director seemed happy, and guess what—Gu Yan asked me to be his muse for his next project!"
There was a moment of silence before Yun Si practically squealed, "What?! Are you serious? That's amazing! Tang Xiyu, you're on fire!"
I laughed, unable to hide my own excitement. "I know! I still can't believe it. He said he got inspired after shooting me today."
"That's huge news, Xiyu! Being Gu Yan's muse would be a great boon for your career. "
"I know, and I am so excited," I grinned as I pushed open the glass door and stepped outside. "Right now, I just want to—" Before I could finish my sentence, I suddenly collided with someone.
"Oh!" I yelped, stumbling backward as my phone nearly flew out of my hand. My heart jumped to my throat as my balance slipped, and I squeezed my eyes shut, bracing for the fall.
But instead of hitting the ground, a strong arm caught me around the waist, steadying me effortlessly. I breathed a sigh of relief and opened my eyes, ready to apologize and thank whoever had saved me.
But the moment my gaze met those familiar black eyes, every word died in my throat. My body froze.
Him.
Of all people… it had to be him.
Mo. Yu. Zhen.