That evening, Song Xi had intended to go to a hotel.
But Lou Yuming wouldn't let her leave.
He didn't say it outright, but he kept asking her to clean up, and then found fault with her washing a bowl, making her rewash it.
By the time Song Xi checked the time again, it was already past midnight.
His objective achieved, he said generously, "Never mind, you can stay here tonight. I don't mind."
"..."
Resting was out of the question.
After they had lain properly in bed for a while, Song Xi felt a hand restlessly stroking her waist.
It was very ticklish.
She wriggled and turned to tell him to stop, but before she could speak, her mouth was sealed.
His kiss was intense yet tender, and in no time, Song Xi was lost in it.
The air grew warm and heavy, their labored breaths intertwining.
Suddenly, an abrupt phone ring shattered the intimate atmosphere.
Song Xi pushed Lou Yuming away, her face flushed. "...The phone."
Lou Yuming cupped her chin and continued to kiss her. "Ignore it."
Song Xi managed to catch her breath. "...No."
It was her phone. At this hour, it must be something important.
Lou Yuming frowned, a hint of frost settling on his handsome face. "Are you sure you want to stop now?"
Song Xi pursed her lips. Her watery eyes finally made the man relent.
He went into the bathroom with a dark expression.
Song Xi breathed a sigh of relief. She had truly feared Lou Yuming would lose his temper and force himself on her, but to her surprise, he hadn't.
Song Xi picked up her phone. It was Dai Ze, likely about work.
She put on her clothes and moved to the side. "Hello, Brother Dai."
"Not asleep yet?"
"No." Song Xi glanced at the bathroom.
Dai Ze said, "Don't stay up too late. How have you been resting these past few days? You did well at the last press conference, but still, be cautious with your words. Luckily, you were quick-witted, otherwise, such remarks could easily be twisted. "
"Yes, I know."
"A director wants you to be on a show. Are you interested?"
"What show?"
"Everyone Loves Talk Show," Dai Ze replied. "It's quite popular, already on its second season. You can watch it if you have time."
Talk show?
Song Xi thought she had seen it trending.
Dai Ze said, "Their next episode's theme is the workplace. I think, before 'The Worker' starts filming, you could be a guest star for a preview."
Song Xi thought it sounded good too. "No problem."
Hearing her so readily agree, Dai Ze sounded a little worried. "Think about it carefully, don't be impulsive. Going on this show carries a certain risk. The talk show circle isn't huge, but it's not small either."
"The performers need to have good comedic timing, and also learn to mock themselves. Even if they're reading from a script, they need to deliver it humorously. It's not an easy gig. If the performance isn't good, you could easily be criticized."
The fact that he said so much indicated he wasn't very confident himself.
After all, those who do talk shows are clever people. Although Song Xi's mind worked fast, she couldn't possibly contend with so many people. If they ganged up on her, she might not be able to handle it.
Song Xi asked, "What's your suggestion, Brother Dai?"
Dai Ze said, "Tomorrow night, there's an offline talk show event. I've bought you two tickets. Have Xiao Mo accompany you. You can experience it first. If you think it's good, we'll accept. If not, it's fine."
Dai Ze was always thoughtful and never forced her to accept shows or endorsements she didn't want. Song Xi was very grateful for that.
"Okay, thank you, Brother Dai!"
"Rest well. Remember to wear more clothes tomorrow, and try not to be recognized," Dai Ze instructed.
"Okay!"
After hanging up the phone, Lou Yuming emerged from the shower.
He looked gloomy. "Who was that?"
To protect Dai Ze, Song Xi chuckled nervously. "It was a scam call."
Lou Yuming's gaze sharpened immediately. "A scam call you chatted with for so long?"
Song Xi avoided his eyes. "...Just making small talk."
Lou Yuming let out a cold laugh. Although he could tell she was lying, he didn't press further.
Because he had clearly heard her say "Brother Dai" just now.
Dai Ze. He was truly a dedicated agent.
Meanwhile.
"Achoo!"
Dai Ze shivered, feeling a strange premonition.