Rebirth of a Movie Star

Chapter 1 – Digital Clock

"I'm telling you that it wasn't me. It's up to you if you want to believe it or not."

The man's voice was low and husky and carried with it a strange feeling.

Bai Lang had always been unable to like it . But right now what made Bai Lang's hands and feet feel even more cold, was the meaning behind the sound of those words.

"… if it's not you, then who?" Bai Lang's throat felt dry.

"You're asking me?" Seeing Bai Lang's tense appearance, the man's voice carried laughter. "Shouldn't you be asking yourself?"

Bai Lang felt as though he had been hit over the head. He took an involuntary step backwards.

The tall and imposing man in front of him bent his waist and picked up the remote control from the table.

[Pa!] There was a noise and a TV that took up almost half of the wall lit up.

Bai Lang's thoughts were still sunken into a chaotic emotional state but the sound of the broadcast pierced his ears painfully.

"… In regards to Kang Jian's earlier press conference, Asia International's Chief Executive's daughter, heiress Shen LingLing has also ten minutes ago updated her website to publicly confirm to all the media the news of her engagement to Kang Jian…."

Bai Lang suddenly raised his head. He stared disbelievingly at the television screen.

The screen showed a press conference. The lights and cameras flashed constantly, showing Kang Jian's unmistakably familiar face in high definition. There was a dazzling smile on that face.

"…. She is incredibly grateful for everyone's well wishes and also hopes that everyone will continue to support Kang Jian. Kang Jian's road to fame has not been easy and he has shown that he is an honest and sincere person who is also warm-hearted and gentle. As for those people who have spread heinous slanders about him and Bai Lang being gay in order to suppress Kang Jian, Shen LingLing expresses deep regret. After all she has been in a relationship with Kang Jiang for two years, it's only that they didn't publicise until now…"

After hearing this, Bai Lang's entire person shook.

"…. Now that these two people had decided to come together to form a family and plan a future together, they hope that those slanders will settle down. As for the date of the wedding, taking into consideration that in the coming months Kang Jian will be filming Director Guo Shan's latest masterpiece "Mountain Rain Will Come", she plans to have a simple wedding with Kang Jian overseas. To have the support and well-wishes of their friends and family is their greatest desire. She once again wishes to thank everyone for their support…."

The sound of the broadcast was incredibly crisp and clear. Each word was like a knife cutting into Bai Lang's heart.

Bai Lang suddenly felt as though he couldn't breath. Add to it the fact that he had had trouble sleeping for a week, and the vision in front of his eyes suddenly went black. In his chest a terrible pain tore through his heart. Bai Lang unconsciously clutched his left breast, crumpling his shirt.

The man in front of his eyes looked shocked. He took a step closer. Normally Bai Lang would have backed away but this time he found he couldn't. He could only double over painfully. In his ears the words "wedding", "dating", these type of words echoed repeatedly….

The pain in his chest became worse and worse.

It was so painful cold sweat appeared on his skin, and from his eyes tears fell out.

His last impression was that the voice that he originally didn't like was yelling, filled with desperation.

"Bai Lang!!!?"

****

The terrible pain made Bai Lang gasp, then once again he woke up from a terrible nightmare.

When he opened his eyes, he heard the sound of his own gasping and painful breathing sounding in the quiet room.

Bai Lang lay on the bed. He stared dazed at the white ceiling lit by a street lamp from the window and listened to the sound of his own heart pumping furiously; peng, peng, peng. It felt as though any minute now it would fail.

After a long time, when his heart beat had somewhat slowed down, Bai Lang finally rubbed his face and raised his body to drink a sip of water.

There was a warm thermos beside his bed. In the last few days he had gotten into the habit of preparing one before going to bed.

Only after feeling the warm liquid flow down his throat could let Bai Lang escape from the grasp of repeated nightmare he had night after night.

However if it was only just a nightmare, a dream, then how good would it be?

And if it wasn't a dream, then how should he describe it….?

Bai Lang clutched the thermos, staring dazed into the darkness.

His eyes turned, unbidden, again to the digital clock sitting on his bedside table.

In the darkness, the illuminated numbers and words clearly showed: August 23rd, Year 20XX.

This was the summer of ten years ago.

The him that had died of a heart attack, had somehow returned to ten years previously.

****

In the entertainment world ten years into the future, although Bai Lang perhaps could not be considered a mega star, he was at least someone who had attained household name status.

He had a warm and gentle image. In the broadcast of the long drama "Partners for Life", he portrayed the role of a young single father. He held the hand of a five year old little boy and this image of father and son was carved deep into the hearts of the audience.

This kind of suitable role helped shape his image. Bai Lang's fans came from all age groups: from small school students, to old 70 or 80 year old grandmothers and grandfathers. During a particular time, he was also considered every unmarried girl's dream "good husband" image representative.

Suitably accompanying Bai Lang's image was his clean and warm appearance. He had white skin that never tanned, straight and glistening black hair, and full lips that carried with it a natural redness. He had a tall and slender figure and was a living example of a white-skinned and red-lipped scholar from a storybook. After "Partners" became a popular drama, it was extremely difficult for Bai Lang to shake off this image.

This kind of advantage also had its limitations. In his next five dramas, Bai Lang's company arranged for him roles all of which showed him as a good and upright youth, it was unable to be changed. In the future all of his roles went in this direction: righteous, good and family-friendly.

Thus Bai Lang's advancement was limited, however since this image was suitable for many types of product endorsements, Bai Lang's rewards could have been said to be more than his losses. In terms of amount of taxes paid, in many years Bai Lang could have been accounted in the top five artistes, and can be considered an actor who worked hard for the aim of earning money.

[T/N: This is a bit hard to translate. It's basically saying someone who accepts a lot of roles, not all of which are outstanding, in order to hunker down and slowly bit by bit grind out money. Not someone who is chasing achievement/awards or to make waves.}

However for someone like Bai Lang who had this kind of spotless image, even the slightest bit of slanderous rumors, was extremely difficult to recover from.

In these ten years as an actor, Bai Lang had faced three great trials.

The first time was not long after "Partners for Life" became famous. Because of the large debts of Bai Lang's brother Bai Li, his image suffered a blow. But after all it was the problem of Bai Lang's family members and was not directly related to him, and so after Bai Lang appeared to help Bai Li clear his debts, he was able to pacify the talk about his low-class family background. However due to this incident, his fame which had only just begun to rise, was once again pulled back down.

The second time Bai Lang became famous, it was after a few more years.

At that time Bai Lang accepted a role in the reality cooking show "Who is Hosting Dinner?" and for the second time tasted the flavor of becoming famous. The friendly and handsome young man would carefully select ingredients and go to a famous star's home help them cook and host a dinner party for their guests. At the same time the audience was able to see each star's luxurious homes and get a glimpse into their private lives. This plus the carefully selected menus and delicious delicacies made the show incredibly popular to mothers and grandmothers.

At that time Bai Lang once again became the number one male star that every woman wanted to marry. This was undoubtedly related to his cooking skills. Any company that was half-related to cooking came knocking on Bai Lang's door to ask him to endorse their products. All the way until an fuzzy and unclear video was broadcasted on a popular video-sharing site, accusing Bai Lang of often attending luxurious yacht parties to gamble and take drugs. These kind of serious accusations led to Bai Lang being investigated by the police. Although the investigation turned up no evidence to support these claims, Bai Lang's fortune took a second large blow.

But the God of Fortune had clearly taken an interest in Bai Lang. After two quiet and lonely years where he didn't have much work, Bai Lang shot an MV for a love song and once again audiences took note of this elegant, clean and gentle youth.

At this time Bai Lang was someone who had been in the entertainment circle for many years. After the two previous tumultuous incidences of wind and rain, in which he had experienced the coldness of human hearts, he had learnt to become strong internally. This kind of inner strength and elegant bearing was not something a new young artist who had only experienced success could demonstrate.

When he once again obtained a role as a second male lead in the movie "Sunset", Bai Lang portrayed the tragic role of someone who was misunderstood however in the end stood in the background to silently bless the male and female lead. This kind of role strongly hinted about Bai Lang's own tragedies and misfortunes in the past, and so under the influence of this "full of meaning" image, Bai Lang for the third time achieved a height in his career.

However what didn't change was, after attaining this height, there would always be an inevitable fall.

The third time was the last time. This time Bai Lang faced the accusation of homosexuality.

According to the stories, Bai Lang was not only gay but he was also a dirty person.

Because he used underhand and terrible methods to force the new star Kang Jian to be with him.

Don't look at Bai Lang's cultured and clean image, underneath that he hid a disgusting and ugly face.

Isn't it obvious that the reason each time Bai Lang was able to return to the spotlight, was because he had climbed into some rich man's bed?

No wonder Kang Jian felt disgusted, and had no choice but to publicize everything in order to prevent more people from being hurt….

As for the starring role that Bai Lang was originally supposed to have in "Mountain Rain Will Come", the fact that it was changed to Kang Jian was only karma and justified comeuppance….

This kind of human scum should disappear forever from the entertainment world, and never again see the light of day…

***

Each time he saw this kind of online comment, the corners of Bai Lang's lips would lift ironically as he reminisced.

All of these was nothing compared to the words Kang Jian had once spoken to him.

"Ah Lang, we love each other. Clearly we haven't hurt anybody so why do we need to hide our relationship!?"

"I know that you want the best for me. However what I want is to stand proudly by your side. I want to hold your hand in front of the whole world. I love you so much, I don't want to hide anymore. I've suffered enough!!"

"Just think about our future together. Don't we have many decades together? You know that I can't let go of you forever. How can we live the rest of our lives hiding in the shadows like sewer rats?"

"Why don't we try? Let's try! Perhaps after publicising our relationship, we will everyone's support and love! Look at these comments, don't the fans always say they'll support us no matter what? What do we have to fear!?"

"Anyway, even if the whole world is against us, we will still have each other isn't that right!?"

***

Unable to withstand Kang Jian's begging, Bai Lang finally decided to try. He was stupid, so very stupid.

They had discussed it previously. Bai Lang would first make an appearance at some particular venues, in order to allow the fans some time to get accustomed to the idea. {T/N: Basically at gay venus, bars etc.}

However Bai Lang had only stepped half a foot out of the closet when everything changed.

Kang Jian became uncontactable, and following that poisonous and terrible rumours began to assault Bai Lang.

Bai Lang was hardly able to withstand it, however in order to fulfill his promise to his lover, Bai Lang didn't run but could only force himself to weather the storm. He had endured the previous two incidents in this manner. Even when his father, mother and older brother all stood out to publicly denounce him, announcing they were severing all ties with him, he could only clench his teeth and endure it. {T/N: Remember the slanders are not just that he was gay, but that he was someone who was dirty/slept-around/forced other people to be with him etc etc.}

However two weeks later, when Bai Lang finally once again received news of Kang Jian, he was met with this kind of press conference.

In it Kang Jian and Shen LingLing's wedding was announced, and at the same time Kang Jian stole the role that he had been anticipating for a long time and which was supposed to help change his image.

And so, everything became crystal clear.

However unfortunately it was not until the moment just before he died, that he finally understood everything…

A familiar pain pierced his chest.

Bai Lang paid no attention to it. In the darkness he could only laugh at his own idiocy.

Even he didn't understand why fate had chosen to return him to ten years ago.

For someone who had nothing to live for like him, what was the point?

Especially for someone like him who had an unhealthy heart, and who had been told by doctors that he had to avoid becoming overly strained or too much pressure, and could only live carefully and delicately, he probably had an expiry date of only 50 or 60 years. In his last life had used it all up prematurely, but this time would the result be any different?

Working hard to live. Living carefully to survive. Last lifetime Bai Lang thought he had done enough.

In the end all he had achieved was an episode of terrible pain. Fortune, fame, in the end all of it had only been empty air.

If he could start again, with even a chance for revenge, so what of it?

However when thinking of those last painful moments, and those strange last images, there was still a few things that Bai Lang couldn't forget.

It was as though his soul had left his body.

In his previous life, as for what happened after his heart attack, Bai Lang should have had no knowledge. However strangely he actually knew. After he fell down there was someone who had caught his limp body, someone who had called his name desperately, someone who had taken him to the hospital. The images which came after came into his head chaotically…

All the way until the emergency doctor had announced that the resuscitation had failed and that all hope was gone for him. His parents and brother had long cut ties with a "monster" like him. However at his funeral there had been a lone black umbrella shielding him, and someone had with his own two hands, slowly, slowly, taken his ashes into the cemetery.

Bai Lang closed his eyes and recalled his unbelievable images.

He had once heard the older generation say that ghosts at their own funerals, would be drawn to the person who mourned them the most.

Chou Qian.

Bai Lang would never have thought, that it would be him.

Chapter 2 – A Black Umbrella

Bai Lang and Chou Qian had met quite early on.

Long before Bai Lang first appeared on TV screens, the two of them had a meeting.

At that time, Bai Lang was a third year student at a famous university. One day on the street had been given a business card. For Bai Lang who looked clean and good-looking this was not the first time something like this had happened. Every time previously he had simply thrown it into the trash bin and never thought about it again.

However that year was the first time his older brother Bai Li had experienced a business failure, resulting in a large debt. Although the sum was nothing compared to the one that in the future the Bai Lang who had gotten famous would have to repay for him, however at that time it was enough to make the Bai family suffer some pressure.

Thus, Bai Lang's father and mother came to Bai Lang to discuss withdrawing him from school.

Bai Li was their oldest son. And their "backup son" Bai Lang was someone who had been born unexpectedly and was outside their plans. In these two old people's hearts, their expectations and concerns for their eldest son Bai Li was always much higher than their second son Bai Lang.

And this time if Bai Li was not able to come up with the money, he would face the penalty of a bankruptcy record, and would be a stain that he would not be able to clean off his entire life. So no matter what the fact that the younger brother Bai Lang should reach out to help his brother was something that they felt was to be expected.

Bai Lang was not surprised by this request even though he was not close emotionally with Bai Li who was older than him by seven years. However withdrawing from school would impact his future greatly. So in order to remain in school and still have money to help his family, Bai Lang sought out the company who had given him the business card. He thought about the advance signing bonus that the company promised him. If he could help Bai Li weather this initial hardship, then he could slowly make up the rest in time.

However in this world there was no such thing as a free lunch. The Bai Lang who was innocent and naive and didn't have any society experience, fell into a trap this time. After he received the money, Bai Li's burdens were reduced greatly. However at this time Bai Lang found out that his first job was to go to a club to accompany people to drink. He regretted it but it was too late to back out.

It was at this time that Bai Lang went out to the club, that he met the VIP customer, Chou Qian.

Chou Qian was immediately attracted to the pale-faced Bai Lang at first glance. It was not related to Bai Lang's appearance. It wasn't as though that in the circle of actors and models that he was used to associating in, that there wasn't anyone better looking than Bai Lang. What piqued Chou Qian's interest was the expression of panic and disgust in those eyes which the young man was unable to completely conceal. He wanted to see what it would take to make this young man yield.

However Chou Qian overestimated Bai Lang. After only a few sips of spirits, Bai Lang became dizzy and was able to pushed down by Chou Qian into the couch. After being held underneath his chin and kissed with tongue, with their upper thighs rubbing together, Bai Lang's eyes were filled with tears and he was played with by Chou Qian until he was trembling and humiliated and nearly came inside his pants.

It was Chou Qian who was pressing Bai Lang down who decided not to do it until the end. It was like he was playing with a small animal. He only licked Bai Lang's red ears and unexpectedly let Bai Lang go that night.

But the day after Bai Lang ran away in a panic from the club, he received the notice that his contract had been transferred to the En Jiang Group's subsidiary "Total Entertainment". He received a call from a slew of strangers which told him that Total Entertainment's big boss was Chou Qian and that he was very interested in taking Bai Lang as a kept lover, because he was clean and beautiful.

Bai Lang was so angry his entire body trembled. He was also both shocked and scared.

When Chou Qian called personally to ask him, Bai Lang rejected him with a trembling voice. To this Chou Qian replied in his husky voice and on the phone lightly laughed at Bai Lang for his innocence and naivety.

In the following weeks Bai Lang was on tenterhooks, afraid that Chou Qian would come after him for revenge, however nothing came of it. However all of the good opportunities for training and exposure passed him by. The other small name actors beside him told him that this could be counted as being slowly frozen out. If he didn't consider changing his answer, then his career has an actor would be at an end.

This was something that Bai Lang could only wish for. The Bai Lang at that time only wanted to fulfill his contract at the most basic level. Once he repaid his debt, he would be free of this world of darkness and evil.

However it was as though the company wanted to keep Bai Lang hanging. Every job he got came with minimal payment, such as being the waiter at a wine exhibition or passing out flyers at a car exhibition. This way it was dragged on and on, the contract wore on for over a year and by the time Bai Lang graduated university, he still had not repaid his debt.

In this time Bai Lang had also considered breaking the contract. However the high cost of breaking the contract was not something that Bai Lang could repay. Also, the contract clearly stated that during the time of the contract, Bai Lang was not able to undertake any other kind of separate work. Whether it be a tutor, shop assistant or even an assistant teacher at the school, it was all not possible.

It was completely denying Bai Lang all work opportunities. Even though he graduated from university, if he wasn't able to get out of the contract, Bai Lang was still restricted and had no income. And at this time the Bai family was still not able to completely walk out from the shadow of Bai Li's failed business venture. In the face of Bai Lang's inability to work, they were filled with laments and complaints. They had completely forgotten that the entire reason that Bai Lang had gotten into this mess was because of Bai Li.

After Bai Lang graduated university for two months, just as his situation was becoming more and more hopeless, the company suddenly unexpectedly gave him a role in a long drama that was to run for over half a year. It was also something that suited Bai Lang's image.

In order to help him undertake this role which had a "not many but also not few" number of scenes, the appropriate acting lessons and training also soon followed. In the next four months, Bai Lang undertook a busy and varied schedule of training which was almost equal to the official artists signed to the company.

Of course, the costs of such a training were to be undertaken by Bai Lang himself. According to the entertainment company, since the benefit of the training was Bai Lang then it was up to Bai Lang to pay for it. However it seemed that the previous incident of Bai Lang rejecting being a kept lover seemed to have been forgotten by the company.

Bai Lang was suspicious about this incident however he couldn't consider it too much. The reality of his circumstances forced him to accept these conditions. He seriously undertook his training programme and completely dedicated himself to his first role in "Partners for Life" as a single father, Jiang XinCheng.

In the drama, although Bai Lang's acting ability was shallow, however his image completely completely fulfilled the requirements of the role. He was someone who had not been in society for long, an innocent and awkward single father. All of this helped to cover up Bai Lang's inexperience, and the addition of the cute and genius six year old child star Duo Duo helped a lot too. He acted as Bai Lang's son in the drama and helped Bai Lang became famous almost overnight.

As the six month long drama "Partners" slowly broadcasted, during this time the company also helped Bai Lang accept many advertisement endorsements. All different types of jobs came his way and further helped push Bai Lang into the road of becoming an actor and after this it was impossible for him to get away.

Even afterwards when his fortune turned, Bai Lang did not consider leaving the road of being an actor. The first acting job really brought to Bai Lang many feelings of true joy.

However afterwards, Bai Li once again had a second business failure. This time Bai Li did not learn from the mistakes of the first time, and after falling in with some unsavory 'friends' and believing he had some insider knowledge, he thought he could invest in an unlisted company and be able to win back a great reward. Thus he borrowed a large sum of money from an underground money lender, and placed it all into this company.

However in the end the insider knowledge he received was only empty air. Thus Bai Li fell into a huge debt. When the underground money lender furiously pursued him to repay the money, the entire Bai family was placed under violent threats of danger. The Bai Lang who had no house or assets could only open his mouth to ask the entertainment company for more money in order to help his brother repay his debts and bypass the storm.

From that day on, the Bai Lang who on the screen was bright and dazzling, began to take on the dark and terrible burden of repaying debts.

Because it wasn't just Bai Li's debt itself, but more because Bai Lang had been contracted to endorse several products, however when the news of Bai Li's debts ruined Bai Lang's image, he had repay a much larger damage of defaulting on his contracts. {T/N: Because his contract stipulates that he cannot have any image damaging incidents, or be forced to pay damages.}

And these two incidents of great rises and great falls became like a vicious cycle. And Bai Li continued to ask Bai Lang to help him repay various debts. Thus Bai Lang's debts became more and more, to the extent that even if he wanted to buy a car, he had to consider things carefully.

However Bai Lang's debtee, from the beginning to the end, had always been Chou Qian.

It was Chou Qian who helped Bai Lang settle his damages for breaking his contracts, it was him that accepted all of Bai Lang's responsibilities. And the reason seemed to be just so he could at irregular intervals call Bai Lang on the phone, to discuss with him his debts and his choices in life, and ask him to reconsider his proposal which was still valid: to be his kept lover.

After seeing the gentle but stubborn Bai Lang refuse him time after time, it seemed that Chou Qian was able to get some joy out of these interactions. He loved to bring up this proposal each time Bai Lang was at his lowest, to test Bai Lang's perseverance.

This kind of mocking and playful attitude provided an explanation for some things. The people beside Bai Lang, whether it be his stylist, manager, or make up artist, were all people of skill and talent. However each time he faced a crucial trial, they would not receive much assistance. It was as though a cold blanket always covered Bai Lang and so his road as an actor was always difficult and shallow.

It was not until the final time that Bai Lang really broke his heart.

He would rather that these ugly and poisonous slanders were tricks that Chou Qian had created, rather than Kang Jian. That was why he had run over here to accuse Chou Qian. And the answer he had received was the one that until now he had been too afraid to face: Kang Jian's betrayal.

It was probably good that he had died at that moment. Bai Lang always thought this.

Facing the rejection of both his family and his lover, he really didn't know what else he had to live for.

But he had never thought that Chou Qian, whom Bai Lang had always seen as a knife held to his throat, would be so unexpectedly sorrowful over him.

Even if there must have been some element of guilt in there, Bai Lang had never blamed Chou Qian. He only remembered Chou Qian's holding the black umbrella, and his anguished profile. That image was like a stamp, from the moment it appeared, it remained stubbornly fixed in Bai Lang's mind….

[Di-lin-lin-di-lin-lin–]

In the darkness the piercing sound of the mobile phone rang, breaking Bai Lang's reverie.

He picked up his phone and took a look. It was his older brother Bai Li calling.

Bai Lang's heart felt extremely complicated. Because judging by the time, he knew that his older brother was calling to beg for his help.

After "Partners for Life" broadcasted for two months, Bai Lang had only just signed a few important endorsement contracts. However it was at this time that Bai Li became indebted to the underground lender for the sum of two million borrowed money plus three million interest, a total sum of five million. He had received his final notice. If he didn't pay within one week, then there would be consequences.

Since fate had chosen to let Bai Lang do over everything again, then this time what should he chose….?

"Big brother," Bai Lang waited two more rings before answering the phone.

"Little brother!! You have to help me!! My life is in your hands!!"

Bai Li's cry sounded from the phone.

Chapter 3 – Little White Rabbit

This night, starting from 2AM in the morning, Bai Lang received three phone calls. One was from his older brother and two from his mother.

All of it was to tell him how deadly the underground money lender was and how Bai Li and the two old people were frightened to death. They had received several phone calls in the dead of the night with no one talking on the other end, and also people had been tailing them on their way out to buy groceries. For several nights past they had been so frightened they couldn't sleep. As for Bai Lang who had a successful career, all he needed to do was to run by the bank tomorrow morning and borrow five million dollars to help Bai Li and save their family, it was this simple no?

Bai Lang lowered his head listening to their calls, and in his heart he couldn't help but recall the scenes from his previous life.

Because after this incident, Bai Li would continue to borrow money time and time again, and would time and time again ask him for help to repay it. Through this incident Bai Li came to understand that if he was in debt, then Bai Lang would also suffer. So he knew that no matter what his younger brother Bai Lang would come to his aid, so he felt free to go out and do whatever he wanted. {T/N: Remember the bad press caused by Bai Li's debt caused Bai Lang's reputation to suffer. Hence Bai Li feels Bai Lang would help him no matter what to avoid such a situation reoccurring.}

All the way until eight years later when Bai Li had finally accumulated enough experience from this manner of using money, he was finally able to open two relatively successful restaurants in his hometown of T City, and became so the so-called boss of a "chain" and made a minor name for himself. Then when the ugly rumours surrounding Bai Lang being gay was broken to the media, Bai Li was the first person to stand out and post on the two restaurant's website that the Bai family had not taught this younger son well, that they wanted to apologize to society, as well as to completely cut off all ties with Bai Lang.

This notice was furiously reposted by all the paparazzi. Everyone said that even though there was no real evidence to support to rumors, Bai Lang's own family had pretty much admitted it. Hence it was clear that Bai Lang really had some serious problems. So the previously unsubstantiated slanders became real in this fashion. For Bai Lang, who had painstakingly supported Bai Li and these two old people these past years, he was heartlessly stabbed in the back several times.

However at that time Bai Lang still felt guilty towards his parents. Because he knew that the two old people who had grown up in a small regional town were very traditional thinking people. Homosexuality in their eyes was something that was disgusting and perverted. Actually when Bai Lang admitted his sexual orientation to his parents, the words they had spoken to him were even uglier than that which was being said outside by others.

However people's hearts in reality were made of flesh and blood. If it was cut then of course it would hurt.

Bai Lang had been a good and obedient son for his entire life. He was a good younger brother. However all he had gotten in return was this kind of abandonment. Although he understood it logically, however Bai Lang did not want to repeat this kind of experience.

Especially Bai Li. When Bai Lang thought about letting Bai Li use him for money again, he really wanted to jump out of the window of the building.

The phone had still been held in his hand for too long and it was slightly hot. Bai Lang paused for a few seconds and then finally decided to dial a number.

In his previous life, he had never once before called this number voluntarily.

However it had always been saved inside his phone.

[Du–du–du—], then there was the sound of the call been connected. "Who is it!?"

The deep and husky voice sounded angry, it seemed like the person on the other end hadn't even had time to open their eyes yet.

"It's me, Bai Lang." Bai Lang looked again at the digital clock. It was still August 23rd 20XX, 4AM in the morning.

"Does Mr Chou have time to talk?"

***

"You have something on in the afternoon? Brother Lang, are you going somewhere ah?"

The young voice on the phone belonged to Bai Lang's assistant Xiao Yang, Yang GuoZhong.

Bai Lang had previously considered Yang GuoZhong a faithful and loyal assistant who had helped him in many situations, even down to the details of selecting his lunch boxes and creating multiple accounts to help talk for him on the internet. Once Bai Lang had completely trusted him and had no guard against him at all.

However after the incident regarding the video of the yacht party, his assistant was suddenly changed from Xiao Yang to Er Hong, whose real name was Hong Hong. {T/N: "Er" means two, referring to the fact that Hong Hong name has 2 Hong's. They are different characters but pronounced similarly.} It was not until then that Bai Lang knew that other than being his assistant, Xiao Yang had another job, and that was selling news about the private lives of stars to the paparazzi.

He clearly had such a friendly and happy face, with a liveliness that brightened the atmosphere everywhere. However in reality he was doing all he could to get close to the assistants of other famous stars, and through casual conversation he was trying to glean information that he could sell. Until that moment Bai Lang finally realized that the news about Bai Li's debt was leaked most likely because Xiao Yang was by his side and overheard Bai Lang to Bai Li when the other person was yelling at him and begging for help.

Because after all when an underground money lender was trying to chase a debt, they would keep it secret from the outside world. They obviously knew that Bai Li had Bai Lang behind him to help repay his debt, so the underground money lender would not do anything so stupid as to destroy Bai Lang's fortune and also expose themselves in the process. {T/N: It's underground because it's illegal, hence the huge interest rate. A loan shark. Probably I should have used that term instead haha, but the Chinese "underground money manor" sounded more sinister lol.}

Originally Bai Lang had been suspicious that it was Chou Qian who had leaked the news. After all Bai Lang had had no choice but to ask the company to lend him money. He had also received a phone call from Chou Qian asking him if he wanted to reconsider the matter of being a kept lover. But now that Bai Lang thought about it, it was more likely that Chou Qian only had a passing interest. But because of that, in this life, Bai Lang finally had the courage to make that phone call last night.

Towards Xiao Yang's question, Bai Lang only said vaguely, "I'm going to see the boss. I have some things to discuss with him."

"The boss!? Big boss Chou?!" The voice on the phone rose two octaves. "How come ah!? Is it a new drama or what? You should tell me these kind of things ah! Okay, is it tomorrow afternoon? I'll take brother Lang there. Where are you meeting?. I'll take you brother Lang, you don't have a car right?"

Bai Lang laughed. This type of question was probing him for information. The Bai Lang who had mingled in the entertainment world for ten years could already discern it. "Since we are having a discussion, where else could it be but at the company office? Is there something wrong with the company office that we have to go out and spend money?"

"Oh. It's like that." Xiao Yang's voice fell slightly. "Then what time? I'll go and pick you up?"

"There's no need. These two days I won't be turning my phone on. You should have a good rest. The advertisement shoot has been changed to the day after tomorrow."

They were still filming "Partners for Life" {T/N: Remember it is a super long 6 month show, and they're most likely filming and broadcasting at the same time}. However because the male lead had some conflicts in schedule, so they could only film a little, then rest a little. The director was so stressed his hair nearly went white however this let Bai Lang have quite a lot of free time, as well as to do other jobs.

"Tomorrow as well? What are you doing? Are you meeting Mr Chou again?" Xiao Yang asked inquisitively.

"Tomorrow I'm going home to see my family while I have some free time. When I get busy again I won't get time." Bai Lang pretty much only went home once every few months, so his reasoning made sense.

"Okay. Brother Lang, once you finish your talk with big boss Chou, remember to tell me ah!" Xiao Yang didn't want to give up. "I hope that brother Lang will get more roles in dramas and fly up to the sky! That way I can become the most important assistant on set, ahahaha!!"

Hearty laughter sounded from inside the phone. Bai Lang thought about how much sincerity there was in that laughter. "Okay. See you in two days."

"Bye, brother Lang."

***

Two hours later, Bai Lang sat respectfully on the sofa outside Chou Qian's office, waiting for him.

Total Entertainment was only a small subsidiary of the En Jiang Group, so Chou Qian didn't often appear here. If one wanted to see Chou Qian then one had to make an appointment very early and come here to wait.

If one wanted to talk about the En Jiang Group behind Chou Qian, everyone knew that it belonged to the Xindao's Chou Family. {T/N: Xindao is a place name, like Qingdao. It literally means "New Island". The author's following description makes me think of Macau/Hong Kong but it's a made up place I'm sure.}

Speaking of Xindao, it was a place that only in the last ten years had been legitimized as a designated specialty gambling area. It was known for its nightlife, exportation business and entertainment business. However previous to that, it was a place where illegal gambling and black market exportation was rife.

The illegal activities coming from on the island was very serious and it was almost impossible to completely change its ways. Until one year when the government somehow saw the light, and decided to just simply legalize its gambling and open its harbor. That way they could openly and legitimately police and regulate its activities.

The Chou family had been doing business on Xindao for generations. At the time of the legalization they were already quite powerful. Once their business became legal they immediately began to spread their business properly and openly. They opened casino after casino, hotel after hotel, buying up bundles and bundles of land. After ten years of washing themselves clean, they could now be considered a very legitimate entertainment, hospitality and shipping company.

However the Chou family still followed the old traditions and family business model. Their so-called "professional management model" was just a veneer, underneath it the regulations that they followed were a minority, and the ones that they flaunted was the majority. In actuality, all the power still lay in the family head. So of all the Chou's family's enterprises, not one was listed on the stock market. They simply placed it under the umbrella company called "En Jiang Chou Group". In the business world no one dared to look down on them.

{T/N: So basically unlike most major corporations which are listed on the stock exchange and have a board of directors and are answerable to their shareholders, the En Jiang group is basically run in an old-school family business model where all the power lies with the head of the company who is also the head of the family. Think more mafia or yakuza style. Hope that makes sense. I tried to follow how the author wrote it, but not sure if the translation makes as much sense as the original.}

As for the Chou family which originally came from Xindao, because they were involved in the shipping business, so from an early time they had expanded to all corners of the world. In the mainland, other than shipping, the Chou family also was familiar with the hospitality business. Since unlike on Xindao, gambling was illegal on the mainland, so they turned their focus on entertainment venues, hotels and high-class clubs, as well as the related businesses of selling alcohol, cigars and luxury cars.

In the last couple of years, the Chou family had taken steps to venture into the entertainment world and had created the not large but also not small "Total Entertainment" company. Originally insiders did not have much expectations of it. They felt that the entertainment world was too complex and its ocean too deep, just because you had money didn't mean you would become successful. However within a few years, "Total Entertainment" had debuted a successful male idol group R-RED, as well as two winners of the "Golden Coil" trophy {T/N: A made-up singing award like the Grammys}. In addition they had signed the young Movie Emperor Qu Quan who had been developing overseas, which was considered a coup for them. These kind of showy successes had smashed the glasses of many insiders, causing them to realize that once you had both money, then no ocean was too deep for you to swim.

As for Chou Qian, who in the rumors was the illegitimate son of the previous generation's head of the Chou family, in the beginning he was just a small-time shipping boss that worked at the docks and was often at sea, and the family did not place much importance on him. However for reasons people didn't know, in the last few years he had suddenly become powerful, to the point where he behaved as though he was the successor of the family. Grandfather Chou, the head of the family, really had in the last half year, given over control of the family to the just over 30 year old Chou Qian to manage. Especially the heart of the family, which was its shipping business, had caused Chou Qian's personal worth to skyrocket to over ten billion in one stroke.

However Chou Qian's outer appearance completely did not match with the appearance of a company big boss.

He had a tanned complexion, untamed half-long hair, and always wore a shirt that was never completely buttoned up. In front of his chest he always wore a thick and large gold chain. Even after he took over control of the company, he still looked like a shipping worker, it was only that he had changed his flower print shirt to a more high-quality silk shirt that's all.

{T/N: If you guys want to get some idea of what Chou Qian's personal style is, just google the Taiwanese movie "Monga" and look at what Ethan Juan and Mark Chao are wearing lol. Basically like a yakuza or a thug.}

Even so, it couldn't obscure Chou Qian's very strong and tall body, his handsome and deep-set features, as well as his unique personal charisma. Even though his style was crude, it gave him a sort of wild and untamed handsomeness. The year Chou Qian took over "Total Entertainment", he had been listed by a tabloid publication as the "number one most desired gold master". It was a fortunate coincidence that his name also contained the world "Qian" {T/N: Sounds like the character for money. Also I left 金主 as literal translation "gold master". It pretty much means sugar daddy, or someone that provides money for another person but I don't like the word sugar daddy as it makes me think of an icky old man haha.}.

It was unknown if it was because of this, however Chou Qian loved to make this kind of joke.

Bai Lang waited quietly for a few minutes. In his heart he still had not fully made up his mind.

In his previous life's ten years, Bai Lang had more or less heard stories about Chou Qian's methods. He looked strong and generous, decisive and practical, however he also had a vicious personality. He knew how to hide his intentions and motives, before pulling out a knife that could kill with one stroke. Towards his enemies, he was undoubtedly their greatest nightmare.

If not for the scene he had seen from his previous life, then Bai Lang would never have believed that he had been special in any way to Chou Qian.

In Chou Qian's position, how many small starlets would have enthusiastically warmed his bed. Bai Lang's rejection really was something that was unimportant. He wasn't the most talented or eye-catching person within the entertainment circle and Chou Qian really never took his rejection much to heart. Bai Lang was clear in his heart even in his previous life that Chou Qian had helped him in some small ways, however the motivation behind that should have been to play with him, so as to entertain himself by seeing the drama unfold.

But as for what Chou Qian had done for him after he died, to Bai Lang it really was something completely out of his expectation.

Even from the perspective of a friend, someone that would mourn for him, then on his road of suffering and fighting, it seemed like there was at least one person that recognized it. After being rejected by so many people, Chou Qian's one act of kindness was etched deep inside Bai Lang's heart.

However in his previous life Bai Lang had been a small star that resolutely refused to bow his head.

But this time he had voluntarily sent himself to Chou Qian's door. Bai Lang laughed mockingly to himself. Like this, would things between them still be same?

Outside the door there was a flurry of activity. He heard the sound of people enthusiastically welcoming their boss.

A few moments later the door was brusquely and roughly pushed open.

There was a cigar dangling from the corner of Chou Qian's mouth. His head was tilted and his eyes swept over Bai Lang with interest.

"Little white rabbit, you were looking for me?"

Chapter 4 – Five Million Dollars

"Little white rabbit" was the nickname that Chou Qian had given Bai Lang the first time they had met.

In this way he had called Bai Lang for ten years. Bai Lang knew there was no chance of him making Chou Qian change it so he didn't bother to waste any energy on it.

Actually listening to it now, there was some sense of nostalgia.

Bai Lang stood up and nodded at Chou Qian. "Yes. Thank you Mr Chou for finding the time to see me."

Actually the Chou Qian of ten years later didn't change much. Especially his face which wouldn't lose to many young stars. And his wild charisma which when Chou Qian was young, made him seem older than his age, would also when he was older make it difficult to tell his age.

A cigarette dangled casually from Chou Qian's mouth and he ambled over carelessly to another couch and threw himself onto it. "Sit, say whatever it is you want to say."

Bai Lang sat properly. He didn't beat around the bush. "I want to borrow money from Mr Chou."

"Oh?" Chou Qian raised his eyebrow. He didn't disguise his surprise. "How much?"

"Five million." Bai Lang said calmly. "In cash."

"Five million in cash…." Chou Qian smoked his cigar. Very slowly he blew a puff at Bai Lang. "That's a lot of money ah. Do you mind letting me know the reason?"

"Of course. My brother Bai Li owes five million to an underground money lender. There is no choice but to repay it." Bai Lang lowered his eyes and considered whether or not he should pretend to be the previous him: naive with unrealistic stubbornness and perseverance. But after thinking about it for a few moments he thought, what was the point?

"If it's not managed well, then if the news is leaked, then I'm afraid that it will affect my endorsement deals." After finishing speaking, Bai Lang couldn't resist the urge to turn his head and cough twice because of the second hand smoke.

Chou Qian's eyes flashed with obvious calculation. He seemed to be questioning of Bai Lang and his suddenly different behaviour.

"But you don't look nervous ah, so it seems like you don't really care if it's repaid or not?"

Chou Qian spoke lightly like a feather, but in reality he really immediately grasped a crucial point.

Because if Bai Lang didn't help borrow to repay the money, then the misfortune Bai Li would bring to Bai Lang was the damages from those endorsement deals. However if Bai Lang helped him, then the person who would take on the burden of those debts would be Bai Lang himself. No matter if he borrowed or didn't borrow, in actuality there was no difference to Bai Lang. The only real difference was whether or not his parents and his brother could live peacefully.

"You're right." Bai Lang could not help but smile bitterly. "Whether or not it's repaid makes no difference to me. In the end it will be me that owes money. So I want to ask Mr Chou for help. After lending this time, to make sure that there isn't a second time. This will be better for the company too."

"Am I so effective? How come I didn't know." Chou Qian snuffed out his cigar and raised his chin. "Why don't you explain it to me?"

"… to be your kept lover. The five million is the price. Bai Li will never dare to touch someone who is Mr Chou's person."

Bai Lang's voice was steady, however he still couldn't help but lower his gaze.

Chou Qian froze for a few seconds, and then suddenly laughed uproariously.

"Keep you!? Hahaha- I didn't hear wrong right!? Hahahaha!!"

Bai Long couldn't control a flush from rising onto his face. He still remembered the first time he rejected Chou Qian. The way he had spoken had been extremely iron-willed, even though at that time he had been frightened to death. So right now in the face of Chou Qian's loud laughter, Bai Lang could only mock himself in his heart.

"Two years ago what did you say? I still remember, hahahah-!! You said something like your morals would never allow you to cross that line, and didn't you want to report me to the police? Hahahaha-!!"

Chou Qian laughed loudly for some time. After finishing he even used his hand to wipe away his tears. "Now you want me to keep you, hahaha…. You're good, I forgive you for waking me up in the middle of the night. Hearing all of this makes it worth it."

Bai Lang's mouth jerked into a mocking smile. Back then when he was called "a little white rabbit", it really wasn't for no reason.

"Then, what does Mr Chou think?"

Chou Qian's mirth faded and became a light and vague smile.

"Shouldn't you ask me first whether or not when I answered the phone last night, if there was anyone sleeping beside me?"

After he spoke Bai Lang paused for a few moments. Afterwards there was a faint sense of disappointment.

Because from Chou Qian's words, Bai Lang immediately understood that the other man had taken him as yet another young star who would abandon his morals for the sake of money. After all he had come here to sell himself voluntarily, and something like that obviously wasn't worth much. This meant that between the him in his previous life and Chou Qian there was a faint sense of respect and a blurred type of camaraderie. However now that he had asked Chou Qian this question, this type of camaraderie no longer existed.

However Bai Lang did not regret his actions.

The reason he asked Chou Qian this question was also to thank him for what he had done for him at the very end. He wanted to thank him for holding up that umbrella.

In his rebirth, Bai Lang didn't really have anything to give Chou Qian. Only this.

To use his body as a recompense, thinking about it it was somewhat dog blooded. {T/N: Dog blooded = melodramatic. Common Chinese phrase so I left it as is.} However thinking about his body, he didn't know how many years he had left in this lifetime. If Chou Qian wanted it, then he could just take it. And if he didn't then at least Bai Lang had done his best to repay him in his heart.

As for Bai Li, if Chou Qian rejected his offer, then he supposed that the company would not act as before and keep lending money to him. {T/N: As in if CQ loses interest in him then no need to keep helping him in order to play with his reactions.} The him that had no house and no assets, and only two short months of fame, if he didn't have any backers then there was no way of borrowing five million from the bank. If this was how it turned out, then really there was no way of him getting money to help Bai Li and so this path was completely cut off for him. It can also be considered a way of finishing things cleanly.

So Bai Lang didn't force anything. He expressed that he understood. "If there was, then it's my mistake."

After he finished then he got up to leave. "I still want to thank Mr Chou for your time today." Bai Lang nodded at Chou Qian. "I won't disturb you any longer."

Chou Qian's eyes sharpened. He stared fixedly at Bai Lang like a poisonous snake. "What about the money? You don't want it?"

Bai Lang paused. "To find someone with Mr Chou's qualities will be difficult, however at least I can find–" He didn't finish speaking before Chou Qian suddenly reached and snatched him around the wrist and jerked him back forcefully that Bai Lang's entire person fell into him.

Bai Lang was shocked. However after the last few days of topsy-turvy events, he didn't put up much resistance to the fact that his entire person was now pressing down on Chou Qian's body. Bai Lang was almost 180cm tall, however he was still shorter than Chou Qian by half a head and that wasn't even mentioning their difference in muscle tone. Bai Lang obediently let Chou Qian raise his chin up and was gazed at calculatingly.

Chou Qian narrowed his eyes. "You've changed a lot."

"When a rabbit is in a dire situation, it can also bite people." Bai Lang calmly replied under Chou Qian's piercing gaze.

Chou Qian stared at Bai Lang for several seconds. He seemed to think of something but in the next moment he suddenly used force and holding Bai Lang's chin, forcefully kissed him. It was a un-polite kiss, extremely searing.

The tyrannical tongue seemed to want to lay claim to its kingdom, thrusting deep into Bai Lang's mouth.

Bai Lang couldn't help but freeze slightly. Even though in his previous life he had gone out with Kang Jian, however the two of them rarely had any violent interactions. And the strong scent of tobacco in Chou Qian's mouth made Bai Lang feel slightly dizzy. However under Chou Qian's strong offense, Bai Lang was able to recover and remind himself to relax and allow Chou Qian's actions.

So once Chou Qian finally released Bai Lang, he dangerously narrowed his eyes. "It seems you're more experienced than before?"

Bai Lang slightly pressed his numb lips together. "…. don't force yourself." It was impossible for him to return to the naive youth of his previous life.

Chou Qian's expression became suddenly dark. However it quickly faded because he once again grasped Bai Lang's chin and kissed him again. However before this Chou Qian gave him his answer.

"Then serve me well. Five million dollars, settled."

***

The next day, a silver limited edition SUV came to a stop outside the apartment that was Bai Lang's old home in T City.

This was an old apartment with six floors. Eight years ago the two elderly Bai parents who had been at that time farmers in an even more remote area had caught onto the development wind. Their farm had been taken back by the government and they had received a sum of money. At that time they had listened to the newly graduated from university Bai Li and came to T City to purchase two apartments in this old building, one upstairs and one downstairs.

The two old people considered it carefully. Now that they didn't have their farm they could only rely on their sons. If they purchased like this then they would live downstairs and their oldest son Bai Li would live upstairs after getting married. That way they could take care of each other and help raise their grandchildren. As for their youngest son Bai Lang well it was up to him to make his own way in the world. The two old people didn't have the resources to help him do anything.

So in fact Bai Lang had only lived here for a few years before going to university in A City. So he wasn't extremely familiar with this place.

***

Bai Lang wore large sunglasses and descended from the car.

Today he was wearing a light gray long-sleeved shirt and pant suits. It was very different from his on-screen white T-shirt and blue jeans fashionable look, it was much more mature. The things that Bai Lang had experienced in his previous life were not fake. Right now his thoughts and actions were very different to the way people in his generation behaved.

Bai Lang held the car door, bent over and said to his driver of today, "Thank you Mr Chou. I can go up by myself." T City and A City were separated by around five hours drive, approximately it was at the limit of somewhere one could drive to and from in one day.

Chou Qian who was sitting in the driver seat and smoking as usual, turned his head. "En? Do you need me to make an appearance?"

Bai Lang lightly smiled. "To some people, they might not recognize a person. But they will definitely recognize money."

Chou Qian looked at Bai Lang a few times. Since yesterday's "exchange" was settled, the Bai Lang in front of his eyes became more and more difficult to understand.

"Okay. I'll wait here then." Chou Qian took out something from his pocket and threw it Bai Lang. "But since I'm your gold master, and the purchase has been settled, then we can't forget about our responsibilities."

Bai Lang reached out his hand and received it. When it was in his hand he saw that it was a silver watch. In the front it was filled with silver colored loose diamonds. Only on the four positions of the time indicators it was changed to four blue gemstones. It was lucky that the metal shape was very sleek and shapely, otherwise it could only be described using the terms "blingy" and "ostentatious".

Bai Lang didn't say anything. He only put matter-of-factly placed the watch onto his left arm and lightly covered it with his sleeve. "Thank you Mr Chou."

"Are you still calling me Mr Chou?" Chou Qian raised his chin.

"Brother Chou," Bai Lang changed it.

Chou Qian made an "en" noise, and then smiled in a playful manner. "After you complete your business, then following that it's time for our personal business."

Bai Lang nodded his head slightly. He didn't reply to these words and only closed the door and went up the stairs.

***

The Bai family had two apartments. They had purchased the fifth floor and the sixth floor.

It was a small apartment that didn't have an elevator. So the higher levels were cheaper than the lower levels.

Bai Lang slowly walked up the stairs that were both familiar and unfamiliar. The memories that he didn't want to remember floated through his head.

"You, you unfilial son!! How dare you come back!?"

"Do you want your brother and us to be cursed to death!? Do you want to force us to die!?"

"Do you know how the neighbours talk about us!? They say we have a perverted son!! Thinking all day about men's bottoms!!"

"What are you doing! Do you know what this would do to your brother!! You almost ruined his business don't you know!!"

"If you want to be disgusting then go be disgusting your yourself!! Don't drag us down with you!! Get out!!"

"What did you say!? You still have something to say! Get out! I'll beat you to death!! Beat you to death!!"

"What kind of curse have I been placed under ah!! Why did I give birth to a sick thing like you–!! Dear God ah–"

After that there had been beating and kicking.

At that time his mother had torn her voice hoarse crying and screaming, those cries still echoed in his ears.

His father had only given him the sight of his fleeing back.

As for his brother Bai Li, he only said with a bitter face, that he never thought his own younger brother was like this…

These events from his previous life made Bai Lang stand at the door of his house for a long time before he finally pressed the doorbell.

After university, there was no longer his room inside his house, and so of course he also didn't have a key.

The door was opened very quickly. It was Bai Li whose eyes were bloodshot.

"Little brother!! Did you get the money!?"

***

A few minutes later, Bai Lang sat inside the living room. He was assaulted on all sides from questions from Father Bai, Mother Bai and Bai Li.

"Where's the money? Ah Lang, you borrowed it didn't you?" Mother Bai directly asked impatiently.

"Your brother is waiting for the money to save his life ah!! You don't live here so you don't know what we've been through these few days!! Everytime we pick up the phone there's strange laughter from the other end, and everytime we go out there's someone in black following ah!! They're not even scared of the police!! They just keep following!! How can we live like this ah!!"

"That's right ah, little brother. You, you definitely got the money right?!" Bai Li grabbed Bai Lang's hand in a crazed manner. His grip was so strong he left a red mark. "I only have three days left!! Three days! If I can't come up with the money, then both me, mum and dad will be over!!"

Father Bai and Mother Bai also were beyond logic. They said in a panicked manner, "Yes! Don't you spend all day every day filming TV and movies?! You should have earned a lot of money right!! How come you're not talking!! It's such a small thing, why can't you help your brother!?"

"Mom, five million is not a small sum…." Bai Lang finally raised his head and interrupted Mother Bai's speech.

"Be honest Ah Lang, are you blaming me for been biased! Ah?! Is it because you blame us for giving the house to your brother is that what it is!? However he's your brother ah!! There's no need to separate things between brothers!! We've raised you for so long, eating, using, what did we not give you!? And you pick this timing to start to nitpick, aren't you being extremely heartless!?" {T/N: By the way I'm not exaggerating the number of !! and !?, the author really put this much lol.}

Originally Bai Lang had wanted to reach into his pocket to take out the cheque, but after hearing Mother Bai speak, a thought that he had never had in his previous life suddenly struck him.

"Right now these two houses, if you sell them, isn't it worth around five million?"

Chapter 5 – Diamond Watch

"What did you say!?!" Mother Bai's face changed. Even her voice changed. "This is all we have!!"

"If we sell the house, then where will we and you brother live!? You, you, you you actually dare tell us to sell the house!? I just knew your motives weren't good!! Now that your famous you want to throw away your old father and your mother!! Ah!? You're so cruel!! I, I, how did I give birth to a miscreant like you!!"

Father Bai saw that Mother Bai's curses were becoming more and more fierce and hurried to stop her. "Stop talking so much. Ah Lang didn't mean it like that."

Father Bai turned to Bai Lang and said in a persuading manner, "Ah Lang. We can't sell the house ah. These years, the price of houses has been rising like crazy. If we sell, we can't find another one this good that's also upstairs and downstairs, two levels. How can we live som comfortably ah? You need to lend us the money…."

"Then why don't you mortgage the house?" Bai Lang asked calmly. "You can repay the five million slowly. It would be better than taking it all out in one go. If in the beginning, older brother finds repaying the mortgage difficult, then I should be able to help him."

After speaking like this, there appeared a hesitant and unsure expression on Father Bai's face.

"But what if we can't repay it!?" Mother Bai saw his attitude and immediately rushed to interrupt. "What if you abandon us and don't help us!? How can you promise that we'll be able to keep up the repayments! If you dare touch the house then I'll fight you to the death!!" Mother Bai slapped the table and stared viciously at Father Bai to warn him.

Father Bai who had a weak personality didn't dare to cross Mother Bai. he could only turn his head to beg Bai Lang for help. When he met Bai Lang's calm and measured gaze, he finally couldn't open his mouth. Because if they continued in this manner, they would be forcing Bai Lang to lend them the money but at the same time was unwilling to sell the house, not even one of the two. The reality of the matter was becoming more and more clear.

Bai Li saw the situation wasn't right and he also interrupted, "Little brother. I know you're unhappy regarding the situation with the house, but think about it, haven't father and mother taken good care of you ah? From the moment you started working to right now, have they asked you for money? Right now to nitpick about this kind of thing, isn't that being very cold hearted?"

"Also, right now the fact that I'm in this kind of urgent situation, isn't it also for you? Think about it, if news about this kind of thing leaks out, then wouldn't your image that you built up with such hard work be all wasted? Money is just a momentary thing, but only with reputation can you earn more money. You should be more clear about this kind of thing than me right ah?!" By the end Bai Li's words carried with it the hint of a threat.

Bai Lang looked at Bai Li. His gaze was cold. Towards Bai Li, Bai Lang didn't need to be polite. He reached into his pocket and took out his bank card and with a "pa!" sound slapped it onto the low table. "You can go and check how much money is inside. I only just finished repaying the 400,000 I borrowed for you before. You should be more clear about this kind of thing than me. All the money for taking care of mother and father has pretty much all be spent on you."

Bai Li's face was extremely ugly. "…. So what you're saying is, you're really going to watch me die is that it?"

"If you don't have money then you can borrow it ah!! If the bank won't lend you, then can't the company do it?" Mother Bai continued to cry and yell on the top of her lungs. "Aiyo!! Old man, look at this heartless child you've raised!! Doesn't even want to help his own mother, father and brother!! Back then, why did we even raise a second one!! If we aborted then we could have saved ourselves so much trouble ah!!"

This type of words, even in his previous life Bai Lang had never heard it.

The Bai Lang of the previous life had never come home to talk about this matter, and had only obediently and hurriedly sent the money over, he had never thought about disobeying his parents.

Right now the reality which was becoming more and more apparent made Bai Lang laugh mockingly at himself.

Finally he reached into his pocket and took out the cheque and placed it onto the table.

"If you can't bear to sell the house, then sell your son ba."

When Bai Li saw the cheque, he immediately rushed forward and snatched it. He laughed gleefully. "This, this, is this big boss Chou's cheque!? It's the type that can be redeemed for cash! It's exactly five million!! Ah Lang, if you had it why didn't you say earlier…."

Father Bai still had some conscience. He hurried to ask, "Sell our son? What do you mean? Where does that money come from?"

Bai Lang stood up. Because he didn't want to waste any more time.

"The money from selling my body. Five million dollars to sleep with a man."

"Sleep with a man!?" Mother Bai screamed loudly. "You, you're a prostitute?"

Bai Lang jerked the corner of his mouth. "I can also not be one. Return the cheque to me."

"You, are you joking!?" Bai Li clutched the cheque and retreated one step. Father Bai and Mother Bai had clearly been shocked stupid by such a statement. For the time being they didn't know how to react.

"There's still three days. You can consider the circumstances." Bai Lang looked at the three people in front of him. The usually soft-hearted Bai Lang in the end decided to give them one last chance. "There's two paths. Mortgage the house. In the beginning I can help with the repayments. Otherwise, take the five million. If you want my help, this is the only way I can help."

Bai Lang walked towards the door. He opened the door and added a sentence, "But once it's sold it's gone. After all, once I'm not a virgin I'm not worth anything anymore isn't that right?"

Father Bai's face was a white as a sheet. Finally he took a tiny step forward. "Ah Lang, you…."

Bai Lang turned his head and looked at Father Bai.

But Father Bai hesitated for a few moments and in the end what he said was, "You, do you really mind about the house?" {T/N: As in he still thinks all this is because Bai Lang is being deliberately difficult because he is unhappy that they bought an apartment for Bai Li and not for him.}

Bai Lang felt something within his heart break again. He shook his head and lost his smile. There was a [pa-cha] sound and the Bai family door closed behind him.

Bai Lang controlled himself and didn't look back, and walked towards that silver SUV.

As soon as he got into the car, the scent of smoke wafted over to him.

Within the smog, Chou Qian turned his head and his gaze swept over him. "You're still a virgin?"

Bai Lang stilled. He thought about how Chou Qian knew what he had said earlier.

At this time Chou Qian casually took out a earpiece from behind his right ear and carelessly tossed it aside.

It looked like Chou Qian had been listening the whole time. Bai Lang paused for a while, then his gaze turned to the watch on his left wrist.

Bai Lang adjusted the watch and smiled bitterly. "Is this the most expensive type of dog leash?"

Chou Qian shrugged his shoulders. "Whether or not you want to wear it is up to you."

He had placed a bug on his body but then had deliberately told him about it. Bai Lang really didn't know what Chou Qian was thinking.

But anyway it didn't matter. As for what happened just now in the Bai family, it didn't matter to Bai Lang if Chou Qian knew or not.

Suddenly Chou Qian said, "What if after three days the cheque hasn't been cashed?"

Bai Lang smiled. "Then I'll sleep with you once. For free."

"Oh?" Chou Qian's face was full of interest. "Then haven't I gotten a big bargain?"

Bai Lang's smile faded. He looked outside the window. "That's why the probability is very low. It's like winning the jackpot."

Chou Qian looked at Bai Lang's profile and didn't say anything.

He started up the car and forcefully pressed on the accelerator. The silver SUV made a loud noise and sped away.

***

Not two hours later, when Chou Qian's car had not even returned to A City from T City, the bank called according to Chou Qian's instructions to notify him that the five million had already been cashed.

At that time, Bai Lang looked out of the window and thought about the significance of his rebirth.

***

The next morning Bai Lang was woken up by the sound of digital music, on a large and deep blue bed.

He was wrapped in a suede quilt, the touch of it felt as delicate on his skin as the most expensive brocade, it was very cool and relaxing. Bai Lang couldn't help lifting up a pillow to cover his ears, like a turtle who wanted to continue sleeping in his shell.

All the way until there was the sound of a [pa-la], and the sound of something being smashed against the ground. The noisy alarm music finally stopped. However the sudden silence actually made Bai Lang finally wake up from the state of heavy sleep.

He opened his eyes and saw an expanse of tanned skin floating in front of his gaze. The naked back bore a perfect and beautifully even muscle tone, and right now it was rising and falling slowly. Underneath the wide shoulders was a strong waist, and what was below that was wrapped in the same blanket as Bai Lang. This person's head also practically rested on the same pillow.

Bai Lang dumbly closed his eyes. In a few seconds he recalled what had happened the previous night. Then he slowly got up and slowly made his way towards the bedroom's large and spacious ensuite bathroom.

Yesterday Chou Qian and driven back towards A City and then without any further discussion, the two of them had come here.

This was a luxuriously renovated apartment that was at the same time as cold as a furniture display home. Chou Qian entered the door, threw the key to one side, pushed Bai Lang against the door and began kissing him. This kiss lasted until they ended up in the bedroom's large bed and then the two people, very effectively, did what they had come here to do.

In this manner, they didn't even have dinner. Bai Lang directly fell unconscious and slept until the next day.

The alarm just now was something which Bai Lang, with his last shred of rationality, had placed into his phone last night.

After having a shower and ignoring the pain from his waist, Bai Lang picked up the discarded clothes on the floor and dressed himself. He tried the mobile phone which had a few moments ago being smashed onto the ground. Luckily it still switched on with no problem.

The time from now to when he had to be on set for the make-up for the advertisement was one hour. Bai Lang guessed that by the time it would take for him to get to his own apartment from here, followed by reaching the set… but he had no choice but to go home first. He couldn't wear these kind of ripped and missing buttons clothes to the set.

There was no choice but to be late. Bai Lang looked at the Chou Qian who still had his head buried in the pillow and thought that it was not necessary to say any goodbye. He was just intending to turn and leave when his foot accidentally kicked something. When he looked down he saw it was the diamond watch which had also been thrown aside last night.

Bai Lang paused for a moment. However thinking about right now how he should behave obediently to show his sincerity, so he bent over and picked up the watch and placed it on his wrist.

Once he clipped on the watch, Chou Qian's head appeared above the sheets, his voice deep from sleep. "You want to go?"

Bai Lang adjusted his clothes. He nodded his head beside the door. "In the morning I still have some scheduled matters. I need to go home first so I'll be leaving first."

"What kind of big matter is it? Cancel it." Chou Qian narrowed his eyes and raised his head. There was an angry and fierce aura about him. "Making it seem as though I just had a one night stand. Come here!" {T/N: More literally, CQ is complaining that because they slept together and then BL immediately wants to leave, it seems like he's the one that got played haha.}

Bai Lang paused and then came closer to the bed. Once he got near he was grabbed by Chou Qian.

After some movements, Bai Lang was once again pressed underneath Chou Qian's body.

Chou Qian's eyes were not completely open yet. He pressed against Bai Lang and sniffed him. "Did you just wash? You smell pretty good."

Bai Lang opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling. But because Chou Qian seemed as though he was about to fall asleep again, he said quietly, "UNI's clothing endorsement. If I skip work without reason, then it's 200,000 per day. If I ruin their image then its 1 million. I just signed last week."

Chou Qian said lazily. "What are you scared of? If it falls through then I'll just find you a bigger endorsement. No big deal."

Bai Lang said helplessly but seriously, "… Then how should I explain to Xiao Yang?"

"Xiao Yang?"

"My assistant."

Chou Qian laughed lightly into Bai Lang's chest. He didn't seem sleepy any longer. "How do you want to explain it?"

Bai Lang was silent for a few seconds. He wanted to try and figure out the hidden meaning behind Chou Qian's words.

Right now Chou Qian's attitude seemed to be that he wanted to let everyone know about their ambiguous relationship.

But why? This wasn't a good thing for the company, even if Chou Qian wasn't worried about this kind of small money.

Or was it because his behaviour had changed too much from before and Chou Qian found it suspicious, so he was trying to test him?

….Was him wearing the watch not enough?

Thinking about Chou Qian's "poisonous snake" nickname from his previous life, Bai Lang thought that even if he tried to guess it he wouldn't be able to. He only raised his head and lightly stroked Chou Qian's hair as though to comfort him. "How about I ask someone to send some food over. And some clothes. That way we won't be so pressed for time."

Chou Qian stilled. Then he said with a dissatisfied expression, "You still intend on going?"

"Yes." Bai Lang patted Chou Qian's head. "The five million has all been spent. So right now I need money."

Chou Qian gave him a patronizing look and then rolled off him and hugged his pillow instead.

"I want the hot soy milk from the end of Er Lang street, egg pancake and fried breadstick with a double serving of onions."

Bai Lang laughed. He got up and made a phone call. But it wasn't to Xiao Yang but to the professional errand runner whose number he had saved in his phone. This kind of errand person who could help you buy things and bring it to your house was a booming business in A City in the last few years. This person was someone that Xiao Yang helped him find.

"If it's possible, I would like to change Xiao Yang. He is not good at keeping his mouth shut." Bai Lang finished his phone call and told Chou Qian.

"Oh. Fine. Who do you want?"

"Hong Hong ba." Bai Lang spoke without thinking.

In his previous life although it was many years later that the large headed Er Hong had been sent to him, but in their discussions with each other, Bai Lang knew that Hong Hong had started working at Total Entertainment as an assistant from a very early time, even before Bai Lang.

"Hong Hong?" Chou Qian's voice changed.

Bai Lang felt a bit strange. He could only add as an explanation, "I've heard people talk about him."

"Oh?" Chou Qian got up from the bed and laughed in a significant way. "Your appetite is not small. You want to steal my assistant ah."

Bai Lang stilled. Other than realizing that things were not ideal, his heart was filled with questions.

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> Rebirth of a Movie Star > Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Rebirth of a Movie Star by White_Sky_Translations

1.4k 0 6

Chapter 6 – Pullover Sweater

On this day Bai Lang arrived five minutes before the scheduled time to UNI's rented filming set.

The reason was Hong Hong's speedy driving as well as Chou Qian's silver SUV.

Today before he went out, Chou Qian made a phone call. A mere few minutes later the all dressed in black Hong Hong appeared inside the apartment. Chou Qian simply threw the car keys at him and said, "From now on you'll be going with Bai Lang", and everything seemed to be settled.

At that time Hong Hong exposed a slightly unusual expression that made Bai Lang regret his words.

The reason Bai Lang chose Hong Hong was because of his silent ways. He didn't appear friendly but unexpectedly he had good attention to detail and was able to resolve things efficiently. He was a completely different style to Xiao Yang. However Bai Lang had never thought that Hong Hong was originally Chou Qian's assistant. In his previous life the assistant who had always appeared by Chou Qian's side was not Hong Hong.

But of course anyone who could remain by Chou Qian's side was definitely good. That wasn't worth mentioning.

It turns out that in his previous life Chou Qian had even helped him in this manner…

Bai Lang couldn't help looking over Chou Qian. His heart felt complicated. Of course he might be thinking too much, perhaps Hong Hong just by coincidence made some mistake, was kicked out by Chou Qian and so Bai Lang just happened to collect a bargain. However from the fact that Hong Hong didn't have any angry or frustrated actions when being sent to him, Bai Lang felt that his first conjecture was more likely to be correct.

However, no matter what reason Hong Hong had been sent to him in his previous life, right now he had this kind of low status. Perhaps he had prevented Hong Hong's development by taking him from Chou Qian's side.

Although it made him look flighty, Bai Lang forced himself to speak again. "… I didn't know brother Hong was brother Chou's person. It's only that I heard someone speak about him before. Since its like this then I won't use him. Anyone else will also be okay." This time Bai Lang didn't dare to name any names.

Chou Qian's gaze swept over Bai Lang like a knife. He laughed lowly. "What's there to be polite about? Since you opened your mouth, how do I dare not agree? Come here."

Bai Lang also knew it was too late. He could only walk over. "Thank you, brother Chou."

Chou Qian wrapped his arms around Bai Lang's waist. He gave him a kiss that had the flavor of egg pancakes right in front of Hong Hong.

After kissing, Chou Qian openly rubbed Bai Lang's butt. After rubbing he said in an intimate manner, "There's no need to thank me. After you finish working today, let Er Hong bring you back, en?"

"…. okay." Bai Lang nodded.

This luxury apartment which didn't have any signs of life most likely wasn’t Chou Qian's fixed residence.

If Bai Lang moved into this place then it seemed as though Chou Qian intended have him completely realize the entire meaning of being a "kept lover".

This kind of feeling became stronger as Bai Lang passed Hong Hong whose eyes were downcast, not giving any sign of his opinion.

Bai Lang couldn't help but remember the first time in his previous life when the photographs of him exiting a gay bar were posted onto the internet. At that time Hong Hong came rushing over to question him with a heavy face. At that time Bai Lang had foolishly chosen to hide his plans from the people around him and so of course he didn't dare admit it to Hong Hong. It was only that in Hong Hong's angry reaction that Bai Lang was able to feel a sliver of his friendship and regard.

In this life, everything should be different.

Bai Lang sat in the back of the spacious car, and looked at the back of Hong Hong's head as he was driving. He was thinking silently.

Perhaps, Chou Qian's actions to expose things was for this reason.

He wanted to let Bai Lang what he had sacrificed, all for money.

In the end it was still a form of playing with him, wasn't it?

Bai Lang laughed helplessly. It turns out he still had some entertainment use in this regard.

***

UNI's clothing endorsement deal was signed two weeks ago. The reason was because they regarded Bai Lang's image in "Partners", which was down-to-earth and also cool and clean. It was suitable for UNI's image. Their clothing had a simple design but was also stylish and comfortable.

If the actors was suitably matched then the CP value of UNI's clothing advertisement was very high. It would become very well received by fashionable young people and became a popular product.

It's only that in his previous life that not long after Bai Lang filmed UNI's endorsement advertisement, the news of Bai Li's debt was leaked. Of course all of Bai Lang's scenes were changed out, and he had also received the letter from a lawyer asking for damages. Thinking about the things in his life which really taught Bai Lang the hardships of his profession, then UNI can be considered one of those things.

In terms of business, there was nothing that he could complain about. But the unfortunate events of his previous life made Bai Lang's memory of this filming somewhat vague.

It was not until he entered the waiting room and raised his head to see the person there, that Bai Lang suddenly remembered everything.

There was a coldly handsome young person sitting there who was at this moment flipping through some documents in his hands.

When he saw Bai Lang he also didn't rise. He only nodded and made a cool greeting. "Hello. I'll be in your care today."

Bai Lang also replied, "I'll be in your care today." However his face changed slightly.

Rong SiQi, nineteen years old. They were both artists from Total Entertainment.

However Rong SiQi was different from Bai Lang who was going down the actor's path. Rong SiQi was pursuing the path of becoming a singer.

The two people didn't have any contact, including in his previous life.

Compared to Bai Lang who can be considered a small transparent star picked up by the roadside, Rong SiQi was Total Entertainment's heavily invested protegee. He had won the "Golden Coil" for best newcomer. For singers, they could only be considered for this award on the year of their debut, once they missed it they would not have another chance in their lifetime. For the singer who won it, they would be highly admired and envied by their peers.

Of course Bai Lang also knew that ten years later, Rong SiQi would win countless more awards.

In the future ten years half of the singing world can be considered Rong SiQi's territory. Other than having a unique voice, the young singer was also a musical genius. He had written many unforgettable love songs. To Bai Lang, he considered this a prime example of someone with true genius entering the correct position and career.

It was just that although Rong SiQi was an expert when it came to music, in other aspects he was often under attack. Especially in regards to filming activities. Rong SiQi had an expression that was always cold and quiet, he was also pointed out as having a wooden face that never changed.

So once Bai Lang remembered he knew that later when shooting began, this would definitely be apparent. This was fine but what Bai Lang's face change was that he had remembered that in his previous life that the person they had found to replace Rong SiQi last minute was none other than Kang Jian.

***

Speaking of Kang Jian, UNI's film shoot was not the first time the two of them had met.

Some time ago during the early days of filming "Partners for Life", Bai Lang had been sent to a training programme last minute. Kang Jian had also been present there. At that time Kang Jian was an artist from Grand Media Group and was also a recently signed newcomer. Most of the people who had come to participate in this training programme came from this kind of background.

Bai Lang's progress can be considered slow. Compared to this bunch of seventeen and eighteen year old young people, the twenty-two year old Bai Lang had already graduated from university. He was one of the oldest in the group and a couple of times was mocked by the others.

However Bai Lang was one of earliest success stories of this group. Not long after the training, Bai Lang became famous because of "Partners". The students from the same training programme who had relatively friendly relationships with him would sometimes call him for the purposes of networking. Kang Jian was one of them and he was the earliest one to make contact. When Bai Lang thought back, when Kang Jian first started calling him often, it was right after "Partners for Life" first started filming.

Perhaps it was because the first male lead of "Partners for Life" was Wu ShenEn who was also an artist of Grand Media. Wu ShenEn can be considered Kang Jian's senior brother. However his temper was very big and was proud and arrogant. He wasn't well liked by his younger brothers in the company and on set he was always making enemies. In these times, Bai Lang and Kang Jian had Wu ShenEn as a common topic of discussion, and they very quickly became close.

Thus Bai Lang had always treated Kang Jian as a friend that he had made before he became famous and treasured him greatly.

If he was given an opportunity, he would always pull up Kang Jian to the best of his ability. Bai Lang had never hesitated. In his previous life during UNI's endorsement, when Rong SiQi's wooden acting brought up discussions whether or not he should be changed, Bai Lang was the one who had spread the news to Kang Jian.

Afterwards as for what methods Kang Jian had used to win this opportunity, Bai Lang wasn't sure. At that time Bai Lang was still overly naive and never thought about the fact that to change someone to another person required a lot of behind the scenes power and effort, and so he carelessly overlooked the fact that Kang Jian was not as simple and as straightforward as he appeared on the surface.

…. But this time, he wouldn't make the same mistake.

Bai Lang looked at himself in the mirror after his make up had been completed and repeated this to himself several times.

***

Filming UNI's advertisement at the end of August was for the purposes of promoting its new winter line: down jackets and pullover sweaters.

The concept of the advertisement was very simple. Two young people who had very different types of living in the city. One was bright and sunny, the other was quiet and reserved. And both of them, when wearing UNI's clothing on their bodies, showed that it was extremely suitable as well was expressed its various uniqueness.

This kind of contrast also showed the various different ways the clothing and accessories could be mixed and matched to fit one's personal style. UNI had used this method of advertisement for many seasons already. Right now there wasn't any girls in the ad as the female line would be shot separately.

There would be two separate shoots, one for print advertisement and a short clip for TV. Today Bai Lang and the others were on set to shoot some concept materials to check for the feel and effect. Then after adjustment, the real shoots could begin.

When Bai Lang put on the cream pullover sweater as well as the faded blue jeans, he looked just like a student who had just finished school. When he walked towards the film set, inside the snowy set Rong SiQi was already standing. He was to start first.

Thus Bai Lang stopped some distance away and carefully observed Rong SiQi's performance.

This time the primary reason UNI had picked Rong SiQi to endorse its products was because of Rong SiQi's winning of the Golden Coil's best newcomer award and the fame associated. This was very suitable for UNI's image which was young and modern.

Also Rong SiQi was a singer who was becoming very famous. He had long thick eyelashes and deep eyes, as well as a high nose bridge. His face had very beautiful angles and when he frowned, there was a deep feeling that belied his young age. So that he would contrast with Bai Lang, the clothing he was wearing was purple and gray, and gave him a more dark air.

However in reality, with Rong SiQi's qualities, when wearing UNI's sweaters it was easy for it to look too plain and ordinary. The reason was although Rong SiQi's features were indeed handsome, however the nineteen year old him was still in his developing stage and the soft, shapeless sweater really required some body shape in order to hold it up. And if the clothing wasn't worn properly then no amount of editing after could change it.

So unexpectedly the photographer from the very beginning was not very satisfied. He kept changing Rong SiQi's posture over and over again and in Bai Lang's eyes he seemed very forced.

Rong SiQi was cooperative throughout and he didn't complain. As newcomer who was extremely well looked upon, his professional attitude was very good. This was also the impression that Rong SiQi would give in the following ten years. His private life was very secretive, there was almost no news about him, all of his focus was placed on his music. The fact that an artist could have such a clean and pure image showed that Total Entertainment placed considerable effort and care towards him.

Bai Lang knew that the photographer would at the end of the day, after Rong SiQi had tried all three of his designated outfits, express his opinion that Rong SiQi's shoot had problems.

The atmosphere in the room was becoming more and more heavy. Bai Lang had no choice but to think about the fact that if things progressed in the same way as his previous life, if he would be able to prevent Kang Jian from becoming the replacement?

That's right, to prevent Kang Jian.

In this life, Bai Lang would not actively seek to harm him, but he would definitely prevent Kang Jian from progressing on his path.

Bai Lang knew that for the Kang Jian who dreamed about being above others, this would be the most intolerable thing.

Since in this lifetime Kang Jian had not betrayed him, then he wouldn't give him an opportunity to do so again. However without Kang Jian's betrayal, he would also not have had this life's rebirth. In this cycle of life there were many whys and wherefores that could not be explained.

Bai Lang could only try his best. The rest was up to fate.

This time Bai Lang definitely would not give Kang Jian any news. However when Kang Jian managed to grab the opportunity last time it showed he had other methods. Even if he didn't say it, Kang Jian may still be able to find a way to become Rong SiQi's replacement in a different manner.

Because to Kang Jian, filming this advertisement can be considered an important first step for him.

Thinking about the time, this should be around the time when Kang Jian had filmed his first movie "A Confused Account" as the second male lead. His scenes weren't many but his role was well-received. After the movie was screened, UNI's large scale advertisement also came out at the same time, which pushed Kang Jian's fame up and achieved a heightened promotional effect for him.

So preventing today can be considered breaking off one of Kang Jian's wings just as he wanted to fly.

But how to prevent it? Bai Lang frowned, deep in thought.

At this time, Bai Lang saw two people walk by his side.

When he turned his head Bai Lang discovered a familiar person, or more accurately someone that would become familiar to him in the coming years.

Chapter 6 – Pullover Sweater

On this day Bai Lang arrived five minutes before the scheduled time to UNI's rented filming set.

The reason was Hong Hong's speedy driving as well as Chou Qian's silver SUV.

Today before he went out, Chou Qian made a phone call. A mere few minutes later the all dressed in black Hong Hong appeared inside the apartment. Chou Qian simply threw the car keys at him and said, "From now on you'll be going with Bai Lang", and everything seemed to be settled.

At that time Hong Hong exposed a slightly unusual expression that made Bai Lang regret his words.

The reason Bai Lang chose Hong Hong was because of his silent ways. He didn't appear friendly but unexpectedly he had good attention to detail and was able to resolve things efficiently. He was a completely different style to Xiao Yang. However Bai Lang had never thought that Hong Hong was originally Chou Qian's assistant. In his previous life the assistant who had always appeared by Chou Qian's side was not Hong Hong.

But of course anyone who could remain by Chou Qian's side was definitely good. That wasn't worth mentioning.

It turns out that in his previous life Chou Qian had even helped him in this manner…

Bai Lang couldn't help looking over Chou Qian. His heart felt complicated. Of course he might be thinking too much, perhaps Hong Hong just by coincidence made some mistake, was kicked out by Chou Qian and so Bai Lang just happened to collect a bargain. However from the fact that Hong Hong didn't have any angry or frustrated actions when being sent to him, Bai Lang felt that his first conjecture was more likely to be correct.

However, no matter what reason Hong Hong had been sent to him in his previous life, right now he had this kind of low status. Perhaps he had prevented Hong Hong's development by taking him from Chou Qian's side.

Although it made him look flighty, Bai Lang forced himself to speak again. "… I didn't know brother Hong was brother Chou's person. It's only that I heard someone speak about him before. Since its like this then I won't use him. Anyone else will also be okay." This time Bai Lang didn't dare to name any names.

Chou Qian's gaze swept over Bai Lang like a knife. He laughed lowly. "What's there to be polite about? Since you opened your mouth, how do I dare not agree? Come here."

Bai Lang also knew it was too late. He could only walk over. "Thank you, brother Chou."

Chou Qian wrapped his arms around Bai Lang's waist. He gave him a kiss that had the flavor of egg pancakes right in front of Hong Hong.

After kissing, Chou Qian openly rubbed Bai Lang's butt. After rubbing he said in an intimate manner, "There's no need to thank me. After you finish working today, let Er Hong bring you back, en?"

"…. okay." Bai Lang nodded.

This luxury apartment which didn't have any signs of life most likely wasn’t Chou Qian's fixed residence.

If Bai Lang moved into this place then it seemed as though Chou Qian intended have him completely realize the entire meaning of being a "kept lover".

This kind of feeling became stronger as Bai Lang passed Hong Hong whose eyes were downcast, not giving any sign of his opinion.

Bai Lang couldn't help but remember the first time in his previous life when the photographs of him exiting a gay bar were posted onto the internet. At that time Hong Hong came rushing over to question him with a heavy face. At that time Bai Lang had foolishly chosen to hide his plans from the people around him and so of course he didn't dare admit it to Hong Hong. It was only that in Hong Hong's angry reaction that Bai Lang was able to feel a sliver of his friendship and regard.

In this life, everything should be different.

Bai Lang sat in the back of the spacious car, and looked at the back of Hong Hong's head as he was driving. He was thinking silently.

Perhaps, Chou Qian's actions to expose things was for this reason.

He wanted to let Bai Lang what he had sacrificed, all for money.

In the end it was still a form of playing with him, wasn't it?

Bai Lang laughed helplessly. It turns out he still had some entertainment use in this regard.

***

UNI's clothing endorsement deal was signed two weeks ago. The reason was because they regarded Bai Lang's image in "Partners", which was down-to-earth and also cool and clean. It was suitable for UNI's image. Their clothing had a simple design but was also stylish and comfortable.

If the actors was suitably matched then the CP value of UNI's clothing advertisement was very high. It would become very well received by fashionable young people and became a popular product.

It's only that in his previous life that not long after Bai Lang filmed UNI's endorsement advertisement, the news of Bai Li's debt was leaked. Of course all of Bai Lang's scenes were changed out, and he had also received the letter from a lawyer asking for damages. Thinking about the things in his life which really taught Bai Lang the hardships of his profession, then UNI can be considered one of those things.

In terms of business, there was nothing that he could complain about. But the unfortunate events of his previous life made Bai Lang's memory of this filming somewhat vague.

It was not until he entered the waiting room and raised his head to see the person there, that Bai Lang suddenly remembered everything.

There was a coldly handsome young person sitting there who was at this moment flipping through some documents in his hands.

When he saw Bai Lang he also didn't rise. He only nodded and made a cool greeting. "Hello. I'll be in your care today."

Bai Lang also replied, "I'll be in your care today." However his face changed slightly.

Rong SiQi, nineteen years old. They were both artists from Total Entertainment.

However Rong SiQi was different from Bai Lang who was going down the actor's path. Rong SiQi was pursuing the path of becoming a singer.

The two people didn't have any contact, including in his previous life.

Compared to Bai Lang who can be considered a small transparent star picked up by the roadside, Rong SiQi was Total Entertainment's heavily invested protegee. He had won the "Golden Coil" for best newcomer. For singers, they could only be considered for this award on the year of their debut, once they missed it they would not have another chance in their lifetime. For the singer who won it, they would be highly admired and envied by their peers.

Of course Bai Lang also knew that ten years later, Rong SiQi would win countless more awards.

In the future ten years half of the singing world can be considered Rong SiQi's territory. Other than having a unique voice, the young singer was also a musical genius. He had written many unforgettable love songs. To Bai Lang, he considered this a prime example of someone with true genius entering the correct position and career.

It was just that although Rong SiQi was an expert when it came to music, in other aspects he was often under attack. Especially in regards to filming activities. Rong SiQi had an expression that was always cold and quiet, he was also pointed out as having a wooden face that never changed.

So once Bai Lang remembered he knew that later when shooting began, this would definitely be apparent. This was fine but what Bai Lang's face change was that he had remembered that in his previous life that the person they had found to replace Rong SiQi last minute was none other than Kang Jian.

***

Speaking of Kang Jian, UNI's film shoot was not the first time the two of them had met.

Some time ago during the early days of filming "Partners for Life", Bai Lang had been sent to a training programme last minute. Kang Jian had also been present there. At that time Kang Jian was an artist from Grand Media Group and was also a recently signed newcomer. Most of the people who had come to participate in this training programme came from this kind of background.

Bai Lang's progress can be considered slow. Compared to this bunch of seventeen and eighteen year old young people, the twenty-two year old Bai Lang had already graduated from university. He was one of the oldest in the group and a couple of times was mocked by the others.

However Bai Lang was one of earliest success stories of this group. Not long after the training, Bai Lang became famous because of "Partners". The students from the same training programme who had relatively friendly relationships with him would sometimes call him for the purposes of networking. Kang Jian was one of them and he was the earliest one to make contact. When Bai Lang thought back, when Kang Jian first started calling him often, it was right after "Partners for Life" first started filming.

Perhaps it was because the first male lead of "Partners for Life" was Wu ShenEn who was also an artist of Grand Media. Wu ShenEn can be considered Kang Jian's senior brother. However his temper was very big and was proud and arrogant. He wasn't well liked by his younger brothers in the company and on set he was always making enemies. In these times, Bai Lang and Kang Jian had Wu ShenEn as a common topic of discussion, and they very quickly became close.

Thus Bai Lang had always treated Kang Jian as a friend that he had made before he became famous and treasured him greatly.

If he was given an opportunity, he would always pull up Kang Jian to the best of his ability. Bai Lang had never hesitated. In his previous life during UNI's endorsement, when Rong SiQi's wooden acting brought up discussions whether or not he should be changed, Bai Lang was the one who had spread the news to Kang Jian.

Afterwards as for what methods Kang Jian had used to win this opportunity, Bai Lang wasn't sure. At that time Bai Lang was still overly naive and never thought about the fact that to change someone to another person required a lot of behind the scenes power and effort, and so he carelessly overlooked the fact that Kang Jian was not as simple and as straightforward as he appeared on the surface.

…. But this time, he wouldn't make the same mistake.

Bai Lang looked at himself in the mirror after his make up had been completed and repeated this to himself several times.

***

Filming UNI's advertisement at the end of August was for the purposes of promoting its new winter line: down jackets and pullover sweaters.

The concept of the advertisement was very simple. Two young people who had very different types of living in the city. One was bright and sunny, the other was quiet and reserved. And both of them, when wearing UNI's clothing on their bodies, showed that it was extremely suitable as well was expressed its various uniqueness.

This kind of contrast also showed the various different ways the clothing and accessories could be mixed and matched to fit one's personal style. UNI had used this method of advertisement for many seasons already. Right now there wasn't any girls in the ad as the female line would be shot separately.

There would be two separate shoots, one for print advertisement and a short clip for TV. Today Bai Lang and the others were on set to shoot some concept materials to check for the feel and effect. Then after adjustment, the real shoots could begin.

When Bai Lang put on the cream pullover sweater as well as the faded blue jeans, he looked just like a student who had just finished school. When he walked towards the film set, inside the snowy set Rong SiQi was already standing. He was to start first.

Thus Bai Lang stopped some distance away and carefully observed Rong SiQi's performance.

This time the primary reason UNI had picked Rong SiQi to endorse its products was because of Rong SiQi's winning of the Golden Coil's best newcomer award and the fame associated. This was very suitable for UNI's image which was young and modern.

Also Rong SiQi was a singer who was becoming very famous. He had long thick eyelashes and deep eyes, as well as a high nose bridge. His face had very beautiful angles and when he frowned, there was a deep feeling that belied his young age. So that he would contrast with Bai Lang, the clothing he was wearing was purple and gray, and gave him a more dark air.

However in reality, with Rong SiQi's qualities, when wearing UNI's sweaters it was easy for it to look too plain and ordinary. The reason was although Rong SiQi's features were indeed handsome, however the nineteen year old him was still in his developing stage and the soft, shapeless sweater really required some body shape in order to hold it up. And if the clothing wasn't worn properly then no amount of editing after could change it.

So unexpectedly the photographer from the very beginning was not very satisfied. He kept changing Rong SiQi's posture over and over again and in Bai Lang's eyes he seemed very forced.

Rong SiQi was cooperative throughout and he didn't complain. As newcomer who was extremely well looked upon, his professional attitude was very good. This was also the impression that Rong SiQi would give in the following ten years. His private life was very secretive, there was almost no news about him, all of his focus was placed on his music. The fact that an artist could have such a clean and pure image showed that Total Entertainment placed considerable effort and care towards him.

Bai Lang knew that the photographer would at the end of the day, after Rong SiQi had tried all three of his designated outfits, express his opinion that Rong SiQi's shoot had problems.

The atmosphere in the room was becoming more and more heavy. Bai Lang had no choice but to think about the fact that if things progressed in the same way as his previous life, if he would be able to prevent Kang Jian from becoming the replacement?

That's right, to prevent Kang Jian.

In this life, Bai Lang would not actively seek to harm him, but he would definitely prevent Kang Jian from progressing on his path.

Bai Lang knew that for the Kang Jian who dreamed about being above others, this would be the most intolerable thing.

Since in this lifetime Kang Jian had not betrayed him, then he wouldn't give him an opportunity to do so again. However without Kang Jian's betrayal, he would also not have had this life's rebirth. In this cycle of life there were many whys and wherefores that could not be explained.

Bai Lang could only try his best. The rest was up to fate.

This time Bai Lang definitely would not give Kang Jian any news. However when Kang Jian managed to grab the opportunity last time it showed he had other methods. Even if he didn't say it, Kang Jian may still be able to find a way to become Rong SiQi's replacement in a different manner.

Because to Kang Jian, filming this advertisement can be considered an important first step for him.

Thinking about the time, this should be around the time when Kang Jian had filmed his first movie "A Confused Account" as the second male lead. His scenes weren't many but his role was well-received. After the movie was screened, UNI's large scale advertisement also came out at the same time, which pushed Kang Jian's fame up and achieved a heightened promotional effect for him.

So preventing today can be considered breaking off one of Kang Jian's wings just as he wanted to fly.

But how to prevent it? Bai Lang frowned, deep in thought.

At this time, Bai Lang saw two people walk by his side.

When he turned his head Bai Lang discovered a familiar person, or more accurately someone that would become familiar to him in the coming years.

For rest of the novel do check "Rebirth of a Movie Star"

All credits goes to author and translator