Chapter 15: Heading to the Television Station, Signing the Contract

Lin Xiyu muttered quietly, “I was afraid of being late for school, so I hurried. Isn’t that different?”

“Sigh.”

Gu Bin met her gaze for a few seconds, then helplessly conceded, “If you don’t want to carry it, then forget it. Let’s take a taxi.”

“Taxis are so expensive…” Lin Xiyu was about to protest when Gu Bin hit her weak spot with a single sentence.

“If we’re late, don’t you want that ten-thousand-yuan payment?”

“Fine, whatever you say.” Lin Xiyu changed her tone swiftly. “We’ll split the taxi fare. You pay first, and I’ll pay you back when I have money.”

“No need to say that last part. It’s obvious you’re not sincere.” Gu Bin poked his ear, pretending not to hear.

“How is that insincere?” Lin Xiyu felt slighted, her pride a bit wounded. “Once I get paid, I’ll have money.”

Gu Bin grinned slyly, “Not sure you’ll actually get the money…”

“Didn’t you say there was payment?” Lin Xiyu choked, her confidence faltering. “You’re not lying to me, are you?”

“What do you think?” Gu Bin’s mischievous side emerged, toying with her. “What could I possibly want to trick you for? Money or love?”

“You, you, you…” Lin Xiyu was truly angry this time, about to lash out.

“Hurry and tell your aunt…” Gu Bin reacted swiftly, changing the subject before the little cat could bristle. “Ask her to cover for you at the phone booth. If we don’t leave now, we’ll really be late. If you miss the payment, don’t cry.”

“You’re really not lying to me?” Lin Xiyu couldn’t vent her frustration and felt uncomfortable.

Gu Bin held back his laughter and replied with two words, “Go now!”

—

Half an hour later, a yellow van pulled up in front of the TV station. Li Yan greeted them warmly.

Even after signing the contract, Lin Xiyu could hardly believe she’d actually earn ten thousand yuan. She walked as if floating on air, feeling as though she was treading on clouds, uneasy and unsure.

“Actually, extras don’t really get any payment. At most, they cover lunch. This money was awarded as a heroic act bonus,” Li Yan said with amusement, leaning in to whisper, “You really should thank your classmate. He single-handedly debated with all the station leaders, leaving even our director speechless.”

“Who’s that impressive?” Lin Xiyu was shocked. “Are you talking about Gu Bin?”

“Of course, it’s him.” Li Yan teased with a smile, “That kid is something else—a master of argument. He’d make a brilliant lawyer, could talk a dead man back to life.”

“Pfft.” Lin Xiyu couldn’t help it and spat out her tea.

—

The contract stipulated that Lin Xiyu must cooperate with the production team, accepting a series of interviews, including follow-ups on hot topics like the college entrance exam, registration, and employment.

Lin Xiyu had no objections. Ten thousand yuan was what her mother earned through two years of hard work. To receive so much just for filming a documentary felt overwhelming; she thought she ought to put in some effort.

Li Yan was pleased with her attitude and immediately arranged an interview.

The team leader and director of “Springwater Family” was a man in his fifties, slightly balding, who appeared meticulous and perfectionistic.

He glanced at Lin Xiyu’s school uniform, washed until it was pale, then beckoned someone to take her to the dressing room to change.

“Do I have to wear this?” Lin Xiyu stared blankly at the outfit the stylist had chosen for her.

A white, cinched-waist, V-neck sleeveless dress that accentuated her delicate curves and graceful figure.

It truly was beautiful, but the neckline was far too low, revealing an enticing cleavage.

She really wasn’t used to this at all!