Chen Mu looked as though he wanted to share something with Shen Lian, but his costume was worn, there was nothing beside him, and all he held was a half-eaten boxed meal that had gone cold.
Chen Mu smiled awkwardly and asked, "Are you thirsty, Teacher Shen? I'll go buy you some water."
"I'm not thirsty." Shen Lian took the mineral water Jiang You handed him and pressed it into Chen Mu's arms. "You, on the other hand-your lips are practically cracking."
Over the years, Chen Mu had enjoyed few good days, but had endured plenty of scornful looks and mockery. With Shen Lian's current standing, there was no reason for him to chat with Chen Mu at all. Yet when they met again, they were like ordinary friends, and Shen Lian had even given him a bottle of water.
To Chen Mu, that felt very different.
"Which production are you with?" Shen Lian asked.
"Glory of Love," Chen Mu answered. "I play the third male lead's lackey."
Shen Lian nodded. It sounded like a third-tier adaptation, perhaps a little better than a low-quality web drama.
"What about you, Teacher Shen?"
Shen Lian said, "I'm filling in for Director Dai. The original actor couldn't make it."
"Director Dai Tong?" A flicker of envy crossed Chen Mu's eyes. "I've watched your new drama, Teacher Shen. You'll definitely have no trouble."
"You're finally here!" As they spoke, Dai Tong strode over from a distance, caught Shen Lian's hand, and shook it vigorously twice, his gratitude plain to see. "You really came through for me!"
"Of course!" Shen Lian laughed. "How could I turn down an invitation from Director Dai?"
Dai Tong pulled Shen Lian along. "Dinner's on me once we're done filming!"
Shen Lian stopped and looked at Chen Mu.
Only then