Translator: Lynn
Due to their shared interests, Jian Jie quickly forged a strong bond with Sun Haozhi and his band members. Within minutes, they were singing their original songs to each other. The music of Sun Haozhi Band leaned towards pop and light rock, which resonated well with Jian Jie’s style. After performing a soulful ballad, Jian Jie enthusiastically presented a bright and rhythmic song he had recently created titled “Time Machine.” The song continued the theme of time travel, acting as a sequel to “Start Again.”
Upon hearing Jian Jie’s song for the first time, Sun Haozhi and his band members were impressed, giving him enthusiastic praise, “It’s an exceptional piece of work! So many vocal variations in one song, it’s amazing! And you’re only nineteen!”
Modestly, Jian Jie replied, “Your live singing is also impactful. I’d love to learn from you. The last part of my song isn’t smooth yet.”
Unexpectedly, Jason interjected coldly in English, “Keep only the last sentence, delete the first five sentences.”
Realizing what he meant, Jian Jie was taken aback. He complied by removing the part Jason suggested, and then sang the first and second verses a cappella, inquiring back in English, “Should I remove all of this? It still feels a bit awkward.”
Sun Haozhi hastily intervened, reassuring Jian Jie, “Jason is straightforward, don’t mind him. Just do what feels right.”
Though spoken in Chinese, Jason couldn’t understand it, but he didn’t think Sun Haozhi was complimenting him. He glared at him and then continued instructing Jian Jie, “Why keep the boring parts? Preserve the music that truly moves people!” He walked over to the piano and effortlessly played a variation for the last verse of Jian Jie’s song. After deleting a few lines and altering three beats, it immediately flowed much smoother.
Jian Jie was thrilled, exclaiming, “It’s incredible!” He promptly took out a music score and pen from his bag, passionately revising the song. Lost in his own world, he played the piano, utterly oblivious to his surroundings. Luckily, everyone in the room shared a deep love for music and understood Jian Jie’s immersion. They exchanged smiles and allowed him to continue undisturbed.
Meanwhile, Sun Qianqian stood behind Jian Jie, closely observing his creative process, her big and beautiful eyes sparkling like a kitten. Jason, too, watched with keen interest, but there was always a mocking smile lingering on his lips as if he looked down on the situation.
Finally, Jian Jie completed the entire song revision, revealing a joyful smile as he thanked Jason, “Thank you so much for your guidance. Would you mind if I credit you as a co-composer?”
“No need, such a minor suggestion doesn’t qualify as composition,” Jason raised an eyebrow. “I’m very interested in hearing your other works. I heard you’ve released an album, so sing me a few songs right here at the bar.”
“Sure,” Jian Jie replied, not minding Jason’s less-than-friendly tone. He was accustomed to dealing with all sorts of unreasonable demands from producers and had come to believe that music producers were probably a bit eccentric, so he didn’t take offense.
In album order, he started with “The First Heartbeat” and then explained the lyrics to Jason. After listening, Jason smirked, “Love songs for the lovelorn. Let’s move on to something else.”
Jian Jie smiled awkwardly and continued with “Escape” and “Accident.” Jason gave him a slight smile and said, “It’s quite intriguing. Do you have other styles?”
Sun Qianqian brought a drink for Jian Jie, who moistened his throat and then sang “Farewell” and “Dream.” Finally, Jason’s smile widened, “Now that’s above standard work.”
Unsure of Jason’s criteria for judgment, Jian Jie simply smiled back. Sun Haozhi chimed in, “Don’t be scared by Jason’s demeanor; he genuinely appreciates you. He hasn’t been this patient to listen to someone sing in a long time!”
“There’s too much insipid music out there; I don’t have time to waste on that rubbish,” Jason proclaimed, revealing his domineering attitude.
Sun Haozhi suggested, “Isn’t there a supporting role in the music movie you’re planning? You seem so interested in Jian Jie, are you considering inviting him to play it?”
Jian Jie looked at Jason in surprise, and Jason shrugged, “You’ve guessed it right, it’s that predictable. I’m working on a biographical film about music, and there’s a character in it that I originally wanted to cast a young singer from Asia. However, after seeing you, I think you fit the role in terms of image and temperament. It’s almost tailor-made for you. How about it? Are you interested in joining?”
Sun Haozhi chimed in again, “Jason’s movie is a big production, and the starring actor is Kurt Glares. Biographical films have always been awards contenders. We won’t talk about artistry or the box office, but your participation would undoubtedly benefit you. If Jason didn’t dislike me for being too old and ugly, I’d have wanted to participate too!” Sun Haozhi lobbied for Jason in an exaggerated manner.
Feeling grateful, Jian Jie replied, “Thank you very much for the invitation, but I’ve never studied acting. My acting has always been criticized by the company’s acting teacher. I’m afraid I won’t meet your requirements.” Surprisingly, Jason favored Jian Jie despite his acting flaws, appreciating his genuine honesty.
“You can portray this role authentically,” Jason smiled, “Filming can be a very interesting experience, and the soundtrack we’ve hired is handled by a master.”
Jian Jie was a little hesitant, and Jason continued to persuade him, “Young people must be bold and take risks! If you’re unsure, give me your agent’s contact information, and I’ll arrange for someone from our team in China to speak with them about the collaboration and see how your company responds.”
Encouraged by Jason’s words, Jian Jie agreed and provided Jason with Li Xiaoqi’s contact details. Sun Qianqian was thrilled for him and prepared a sumptuous lunch in celebration.
Unexpectedly, around noon, Sun Qianqian’s entire family showed up at once. Her grandfather, aunt, and cousin all appeared, observing Jian Jie like a hawk. They seemed to be investigating him as a potential boyfriend for Sun Qianqian, which made both Jian Jie and Sun Qianqian feel extremely embarrassed.
Meanwhile, Long Zichen had received the news that Jian Jie went to Sun Qianqian’s house and it seemed like they were on a date! Long Zichen felt downcast. Despite trying to convince himself that he should sincerely wish Jian Jie well if he found someone he liked, he realized that it was easier said than done. How did those love saints on TV, who tolerated their loved ones marrying others and gave in silently, manage to do so? He needed advice!
Long Zichen also realized that he might not have the chance to possess such noble moral sentiments in his life, so resorting to stalking seemed to be his last desperate option. He persuaded Yuan Chao to accompany him to Sun Qianqian’s house. He wanted to show his presence and disrupt the situation!
However, upon arriving at Sun Qianqian’s house, he was taken aback to find that his competition was not only a lovely girl but also a foreigner trying to poach talent from their country! Was this some kind of divine test sent to punish him?
Please let me know if there are typos/mistakes in the chapter.
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