Xize was not of mixed race; his face was purely Asian, and he still harbored a deep sense of belonging and identity with his ethnicity. Compared to the deep-set eyes and high-bridged noses of the mixed-race individuals prevalent in the industry, he might lose out in terms of more defined features. So why not play to his strengths and avoid his weaknesses? Highlight his unique attributes as much as possible.
Moreover, in today's entertainment industry, Asians were as rare and precious as panda blood. Many people harbored a fascination for the long-lost, mysterious Eastern country. If he didn't make good use of his advantages, wouldn't it be a waste of his face?
The "Chinese Style" theme received unanimous approval. With the theme set, everyone dispersed to start their respective tasks. Stylist Anan took Xize's measurements for the costumes, makeup artist Mary began designing the makeup, the photographer and post-production team searched for background images and set up the scene, while Xize focused on physical training and posture exercises.
Jane Anning, on the other hand, oversaw the entire operation and had several private meetings with Xia Li.
On the day of the shoot, excitement and anticipation filled the air. The second-floor studio was fully equipped, and Michael and Jack had brought their best gear. Mary and Anan prepared Xize's first look in the makeup room.
The first look was that of a dandy in a blue robe. There was no need to style his hair; a touch of makeup and sideburns sufficed. As Xize sat quietly in the chair, his aura subdued, he exuded a nonchalant demeanor, allowing Mary to work her magic freely.
Mary, a seasoned makeup artist who had worked with numerous top stars, couldn't help but acknowledge the finer, more translucent quality of Asian skin, which took makeup exceptionally well. Given Xize's already excellent base, she only needed to apply a simple foundation and outline his eyes and eyebrows.
However, Mary couldn't help but worry if Xize could handle such a variety of roles in one go. After all, aside from the dandy, there were several completely different characters to portray. Once makeup was done and he changed into his costume, Xize still wore a somewhat weak expression—understandable, given his past as a rugged, hardened actor. To appear approachable, he often subdued his aura and expressions, but now, with his "pretty boy" looks, the effect was quite different.
The combination of a gentle, unassuming demeanor, a subdued aura, and a pretty face resulted in him looking like an obedient little rabbit.
When Xize emerged, adjusting his belt, Anan and Mary exchanged glances, both picturing a soft, fluffy, long-eared creature—how had such an obedient little rabbit survived until now? Shouldn't he have been devoured whole long ago?
Xize looked up, confused, and asked Anan, "This button..."
Leave it to me, little rabbit! Anan rushed over to help him with the belt, while Mary watched, torn between delight at his pleasing appearance and worry about his ability to handle the roles.
He looked too obedient. While the word "obedient" might not typically suit a grown man and could even seem effeminate, it fit Xize perfectly. He sat there quietly, barely speaking, occasionally uttering a few considerate and even humorous words—he was the epitome of "obedient."
Unable to hold back, Mary said, "When you go out, the photographer will give you instructions, and the post-production team will assist you, so don't worry."
Before she could finish, Xize interrupted, looking directly at her, "Are you worried I won't perform well?"
Anan, less conflicted than Mary, spoke more candidly. "You lack experience, and there are many roles to portray at once. The expressions, actions, and demeanor of each character are very particular. Sister Anning has put all her hopes on you; we all hope you'll soar."
Xize smiled warmly, even showing a row of white teeth, "Don't worry."
The first look was that of a dandy in a blue robe, exuding nobility and a carefree attitude. Anan not only crafted a luxurious outfit but also handed Xize a gilded folding fan.
As Xize walked from the makeup room to the adjacent studio, he transformed completely. Jane Anning, Jack, and Michael were discussing the shoot's details when the door opened, and a debonair, wealthy dandy stepped in.
The three in the studio looked up in astonishment. The dandy first adjusted his sleeve, then elegantly snapped open the fan, his chin held arrogantly high. He stepped through the door, leisurely fanning himself, his gaze bright and haughty as he surveyed the studio. His expression was one of slight disdain and self-pride. After scrutinizing the room, he finally turned his gaze to the three inside, his previous arrogance replaced by a probing look, his eyes lingering on Jane Anning.
Jane Anning, Jack, and Michael were initially frozen in place, as Xize seemed to walk straight out of a painting. His every move mirrored that of a wealthy, arrogant young master from ancient times, his expression haughty, his demeanor frivolous.
This was Xize? The same Xize who had stood by the window with a mobile light screen? Wow! How did the little rabbit transform so dramatically? What kind of magic potion did he take?
Xize's gaze remained on Jane Anning, first scrutinizing, then probing. His eyes deepened, and he slowed the fan's motion, as if contemplating something important. He then closed the fan, tapped it twice in his palm, lowered the hand he had previously held behind his back, and walked over.
Jane Anning felt a shiver down her spine under his gaze. When Xize reached her, her ears turned red. He raised an eyebrow and smiled, exuding confidence. He made a courteous bow, his eyes never leaving hers, his gaze sincere yet slightly flirtatious. Despite his polite demeanor, his posture was arrogant, his face smiling yet sharp.
Jane Anning blushed from her ears to her neck, then from her neck to her face, barely managing to hold back her embarrassment.
Jack and Michael exclaimed in surprise, while Anan cheered from behind, "Sister Anning! He's flirting with you!"
Xize straightened up, laughing at Jane Anning's flushed face. He raised a hand apologetically, "I was just getting into character."
Jane Anning, usually composed, had never been so flustered by a young man under twenty. She slapped Xize's shoulder in mock anger, "Are you trying to get yourself killed? How dare you flirt with me!"
Everyone around was shocked by Jane Anning's outburst, knowing she was usually gentle and never uttered a harsh word.
Xize chuckled, "I was just trying to get into character."
Still fuming, Jane Anning fanned her face, "Next time, practice on the wall! Try flirting with me again, and see what happens!"
Xize quickly nodded.
Mary and Anan, who had been worried, felt relieved. Anan remarked to Mary, "See, he can get into character. We were overthinking."
Mary, walking over, added, "It's not that we were overthinking; we didn't know his capabilities. Now we do."
The studio was similar to those Xize had used before, with familiar equipment and lighting that felt more comfortable. Jack adjusted the equipment, recalling Xize's earlier performance, "Just get into character like before. Can you handle the camera?"
Xize gave an OK sign, closed his eyes, and stood still for a moment. Anan and Mary gathered around.
Jack raised the camera, focusing on the young man in the blue robe standing quietly with his head down. He adjusted the camera, about to prompt Xize, but saw him lift his head, a mischievous smile playing on his lips—he had transformed back into the arrogant, wealthy dandy.
The first look, the second, the third, all the way to the seventh... Everyone was "enchanted." Michael and Jack, two grown men, were almost dying of shame and frustration, while Mary and Anan couldn't stop exclaiming in excitement after each look.
Jane Anning, eyes red with joy, watched Xize with delight. She had lost count of the times he had surprised her since returning from Tom's set. The young man in front of the camera kept redefining her perception of him.
In Tom's lens, he was an actor who could captivate souls; in the hospital at the film planet base, he was the calm, smiling young man who greeted her; outside the conference room on the 48th floor of the Silver Fox Building, he was the "pretty boy" who impressed even Xia Li.
Most of the time, Xize barely spoke, silently observing his surroundings with no presence or aura, obediently staying on the sidelines. As Jack and Anan had said, his pretty, fair appearance made him seem like a quiet little animal. Yet, he had a trigger within him—when needed, he would unleash his aura. His eyes, expressions, and body language seemed to change at will.
Seven looks, under the lights and cameras, revealed a multifaceted Xize. He could be the playful, arrogant dandy, the naive and adorable young scholar in coarse clothes, the stern general in golden armor, or even the sinister and cunning villain.
Jane Anning's palms were sweaty. Aside from his slightly slender build, he seemed like a vessel containing countless different souls.
Such a Xize left Jane Anning and everyone else astonished and thrilled. If he couldn't make it big, then what hope was there for the entertainment industry?
That evening, Jane Anning asked Xize, "The exchange meeting is in three days. Are you nervous?"
Xize, with his makeup removed, revealing his naturally fair and beautiful face, was quietly watching a movie on a light screen, nestled on the sofa. He looked up at Jane Anning, smiling calmly, showing no signs of nervousness. He asked in return, "Why should I be nervous?"