MMLDU Chapter 23

“Mr. Yan, have I caused you trouble again?”

“It’s good that you know.”

Feeling guilty about Yan Han being mocked and ridiculed earlier, Pei Lang broke the silence after much deliberation, only to receive Yan Han’s cold and sharp reply.

Pei Lang sighed and obediently followed beside Yan Han. “When he was mocking you earlier, why didn’t you snap back?”

Yan Han was so sharp-tongued and, as an elder, surely wouldn’t lose in a verbal spar with Yan Xiuyuan. It was clear that this erratic nephew was actually afraid of his cold-faced uncle.

“I’m used to it.”

Yan Han was as reluctant as ever to say much. That simple phrase, “I’m used to it”, was enough for Pei Lang to mentally construct an entire drama of family feuds. Yan Xiuyuan’s outward respect for his uncle clearly masked his inner disdain, which was entirely in character for him.

As expected, a rebel through and through.

After this incident, Pei Lang found himself disliking the male lead even more. Yan Xiuyuan wasn’t nearly as noble as portrayed in the novel. Of course, it also couldn’t be ruled out that this was the world of a fanfiction universe.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Yan. Because of me, you were ridiculed again today. Now that he’s figured out the nature of our relationship, you’ll definitely face even more mockery.”

“I don’t care.”

Once they got into the car, Su Jia started driving. From the front seat, he cast another glance of admiration in Yan Han’s direction. Pei Lang didn’t have the energy to speculate on the source of Su Jia’s reverence this time.

Sitting beside Yan Han, Pei Lang could sense that his mood wasn’t great. Even the little chibi on Yan Han’s shoulder had lost its usual liveliness. Holding the small fox in its arms, it hung its head in low spirits, no longer brimming with its usual energy.

Yan Han usually didn’t show much emotion—his expressions were the same regardless of joy, anger, or sorrow. But Pei Lang, thanks to his golden finger, could sense his emotions. Today, it was the lowest Pei Lang had ever seen Yan Han’s mood.

It probably wasn’t because of him, but because of being mocked by a family member about his legs.

For someone as proud as Yan Han, his legs were what he cared about most. It was one thing for outsiders to mock him, but when his own family spoke that way, it was like someone he trusted the most sprinkling salt on his wounds.

Of course, this was Pei Lang’s speculation.

In the original story, the conflict between the male lead and his uncle wasn’t detailed. What was emphasized most was how the original owner had taken advantage of Yan Han’s position to continue causing trouble, eventually meeting a tragic end at the hands of the male lead. Even after the original owner’s death, Yan Han, who married someone for good fortune, never regained the use of his legs.

For a moment, Pei Lang felt a pang of pity for Yan Han. He almost couldn’t resist reaching out to pat Yan Han’s head and comfort him. Instead, he said, “Mr. Yan, I have a bold idea.”

“Speak.”

“Let me join the entertainment industry!”

This wasn’t a sudden thought—he had always had this goal in mind. His fitness and martial arts training were all preparation for this.

The original owner’s poor acting skills had offended almost everyone in the entertainment industry—actors, directors, and so on. Hardly anyone was willing to work with him. Entering the entertainment industry? It sounded like a joke.

Yan Han’s frown was visible, and he cast a sidelong glance at Pei Lang as if to say, Are you dreaming?

Pei Lang explained, “Look, Yan Xiuyuan already knows about our relationship. Soon Pei Ziqing will know. If Pei Ziqing knows, the whole internet will know. Won’t you be mocked by everyone online? You’re capable, I know, but can you silence every netizen? Instead of that, why not let me enter the entertainment industry and win glory for you?”

“If you want me to pave the way and provide resources for you, just say so,” Yan Han replied, instantly seeing through him.

Pei Lang felt a bit awkward…

Yes, the original owner couldn’t make it in the entertainment industry. Without any backing, it was difficult to rise to the top. Yan Han owned an entertainment company, so it would be much easier to enter the industry with his company and connections. Of course, bringing him glory was part of the deal too.

“Your acting is well known—getting free food and drinks is fine, but acting…” Yan Han paused and then concluded, “Are you looking for a bigger wave of online mockery?”

That’s about the original owner, not me…

Pei Lang couldn’t help but silently complain. “You’ll just help me get an audition. Whether the director picks me or not is another story. I won’t debut under your company. If I bring glory, we shine together. If I get mocked, I’ll take it on alone. Does that work for you?”

Yan Han remained silent. Pei Lang, feeling nervous, looked at his shoulder. He saw the little chibi in the corner smirking a devious grin at the little fox. For some reason, Pei Lang got goosebumps as if he were the little fox himself.

Uhh… Mr. Yan, be kinder to your little fox. If you scare it off, it won’t be a joke.

“Fine, I’ll help you with the introduction. If the director doesn’t notice you, just stay at the villa and don’t go anywhere.”

The little chibi on his shoulder somehow found an iron cage and enticed the little fox to walk inside. But the little fox was still hesitating by the edge of the cage.

Pei Lang was startled, increasingly confused by Yan Han’s behavior.

Seeing that smirk, maybe he’s trying to set a trap for himself, but it doesn’t matter. He can only take this step now and will give it his all. If he fails, he’ll think of another way next time. “Thank you, Mr. Yan, for giving me the opportunity.”

Not long after, the vehicle stopped at the villa entrance. Yan Han got out first, and Pei Lang followed with Su Jia. Facing Su Jia’s strange looks, Pei Lang couldn’t help but ask.

“Have your eyes been twitching lately?” When did that start?

Pei Lang thought back carefully and realized that it probably started on Children’s Day when Su Jia first started showing this expression from time to time.

“You’re amazing… not only did you stand up to Young Master Yan, but now you’ve even got the boss wrapped around your finger. You should know that there’s no such thing as using backdoors with the boss. It’s the first time the boss has ever recommended someone for a role,” Su Jia said, growing more and more in admiration, practically wanting to treat Pei Lang like an older brother.

Pei Lang, for the first time, twitched his lips, speechless.

So admiration comes from these aspects?

And what about that? Who’s using a backdoor? You’re the one using a backdoor!!

It’s just a recommendation, not a guaranteed role. Whether I get the role depends on the director’s approval.

“I admit, I was a bit harsh on you before. Starting today, I’m your number one fan. By the way, when you have time, teach me some martial arts. That move you did the other day, wow, so cool,” Su Jia had completely turned into a rainbow fart generator, spewing out admiration. Pei Lang felt awkward and embarrassed.

“Uh, hehe~ thanks for the praise, you’re not bad either.”

If he could, he would rather Su Jia act normal, just like before. Now, those eyes made him feel all creeped out.

He quickly caught up with Yan Han. Aunt Lin had already prepared a table full of dishes. Pei Lang rushed up and hugged her. “Aunt Lin, you’ve worked hard. Take a break. Let me help serve the soup.”

Yan Han glanced at the smooth-talking Pei Lang, then looked at Aunt Lin, who was so flattered that she couldn’t close her mouth. He then led Su Jia upstairs to the study.

Originally, Pei Lang wasn’t a bad person. He was likable, and they got along well. Yan Han had planned to let him stay in the villa. But to his surprise, the little fox actually seemed to be looking forward to the outside world.

He wasn’t the type to beg someone to stay, so he decided to use a little trick.

“Director Jin’s second male lead hasn’t been decided yet, go ask him for a script.”

“The boss wants to recommend Pei Lang for the second male lead? But Director Jin has very high artistic standards. Even if you recommend him, if he doesn’t fit, Director Jin won’t use him.”

“I naturally know that. If even Director Jin can’t handle it, why bother entering the entertainment industry? Similarly, those chosen by Director Jin will have a smoother path to stardom.” Yan Han had never intended for Pei Lang to enter the entertainment industry, which is why he deliberately recommended him to Director Jin.

Su Jia, unaware of the underlying motive, was left feeling speechless. He couldn’t help but feel for Pei Lang, silently lamenting his fate.

But Boss, you know Pei Lang’s acting skills, how could he possibly be chosen by Director Jin? How many people in the entertainment industry are selected by Director Jin?

While he complained internally, Su Jia still went off to handle his business. Later that evening, Pei Lang received a script for the second male lead of a martial arts novel. He checked the production team—it’s a big production with a major IP. From the director to the male and female leads, all the key people were not only skilled but also had strong followings. Receiving this script felt like a stroke of luck as if a pie had fallen from the sky.

Moreover, this novel was a martial arts story, perfect for his first action role in this world.

The other roles were already cast; they were only missing the second male lead. This character had high demands for both looks and acting skills. It was the most complex character in the novel, which is why Director Jin had yet to find the right person.

Yan Han had recommended someone. As an investor in many of Director Jin’s works, he had never recommended anyone before. This time, however, he made an exception, and Director Jin was eager to see who this person was.

The audition was in three days. After receiving the script, Pei Lang immersed himself in it completely, constantly researching and studying it. During this time, he read the original novel twice, thoroughly analyzing the key characters. This was a great drama, and Pei Lang liked it very much—he was determined to land the role.

The martial arts drama described explosive and passionate fight scenes in the novel. If the show stayed true to the original, it could be a hit.

Pei Lang wasn’t sure what Yan Han had done, but their relationship hadn’t been exposed. He had prepared himself for the mockery he thought he would receive from the entire internet, but to his surprise, everything was calm. There was no sign of any backlash at all.

“Are you ready for the audition tomorrow?”

“Ready.” Pei Lang switched hands, massaging Yan Han’s other leg with an enthusiastic expression, his eyes filled with anticipation for tomorrow.

Yan Han found himself reluctant to extinguish this hope in Pei Lang. However, Pei Lang, as his personal masseuse and sleep aid, was too valuable for Yan Han to let him go. Once he faced the harsh reality of the entertainment industry, Pei Lang would probably lose all interest in it.

Thinking about how Pei Lang might return home defeated tomorrow, Yan Han, in a rare moment of mercy, decided not to work overtime the next day. He would return early and bring him some treats. According to the Fox Raising Guide, if you want the little fox to depend on you, you must buy snacks and comfort it by gently petting it.

“Tomorrow, let Su Jia accompany you.”

“Isn’t he your assistant? I can go by myself.” Su Jia had always taken care of Yan Han. Compared to him, Yan Han needed an assistant more.

“You don’t think I only have one assistant, do you?”

Pei Lang: “…”

Having more assistants isn’t impressive. When I become famous, I’ll hire two assistants too.

Yan Han’s legs felt numb and swollen from the massage. His skin, rarely exposed to the sun, was pale. Under Pei Lang’s touch, a faint red mist appeared. “Mr. Yan, your legs hurt during the summer nights. Doesn’t it hurt even more in the autumn and winter? How do you usually manage?”

“I endure it.” These legs couldn’t walk and were numb to the touch, yet the pain never diminished. Every time, it hurt as badly as the moment after the car accident.

It wasn’t a constant pain, but one that came intermittently, making him relive the car accident scene again and again. Massages, foot soaks, medications, and injections only provided temporary relief. Over time, he had given up. Painkillers were not only harmful to the body but also made him feel like a useless person, living only because of the medication.

Superstition, however, made him believe in things that could help. Pei Lang’s massage technique wasn’t extraordinary, but strangely enough, it alleviated the pain. After these few days of massages, the pain hadn’t flared up again.

That was why Yan Han didn’t want him to go out to work.

Acting in a drama meant long periods of being on set. Sometimes, he wouldn’t be able to come back for months. So when someone could ease his leg pain, letting that person go would be like asking for trouble.

---