Chapter Twenty-Four: The Kindness of the Liang Family

“Have you considered that you’re just a stand-in actor, chosen on a whim, and abruptly promoted from a background role? Don’t get me wrong, I’m not questioning your status as an actor,” Liang Jiahui said bluntly, his words giving little room for pride. “But to step into the crew and immediately involve yourself in the core, giving guidance—that’s bound to draw criticism!”

Liu Qingshan understood well enough. “I get it. You’re just giving me a heads-up, and I appreciate it.”

“All right then. This time, put me down as the mastermind behind the plan. If it succeeds, you can explain everything to President Yang. If it fails, the blame won’t fall on you. But let’s be clear, I’m not trying to steal your credit.”

“I can’t let you take responsibility for this. There’s real risk involved.”

“Of course there’s risk. But more importantly, no one’s ever tried something like this so openly before. If I propose it, at worst, it’ll be dismissed as an immature suggestion. The decision isn’t ours to make, and if something goes wrong, I have enough standing to avoid too much trouble.”

“But I’d feel terrible if this ruined your career. You’ve worked hard for your reputation.”

“That’s not going to happen. If Director Tang and Chen Long aren’t afraid, why should I be? Besides, there’s a fifty percent chance this will work!”

“So what am I supposed to do?”

“Enough. I’m helping you because I see something in you. If you keep fussing, you’ll make us strangers.”

Liu Qingshan knew perfectly well that this was a favor, and no matter how well he planned, he had to consider both sides. The film crew wanted to stir up attention for a better box office, but the producers might not appreciate exposing the origins of an accident. If things went right, everyone would be satisfied, but if not, they’d remember who started it all.

Whether it was Yang Wancheng or Qinghuang Films, their influence in the mainland entertainment industry was undeniable, even though they operated out of Hong Kong. Liang Jiahui’s offer was a significant gesture, meant to ensure Liu Qingshan wouldn’t be ruined before his time.

Grateful, Liu Qingshan cupped his hands in salute, a gesture more genuine than any words, especially in the Hong Kong stunt community.

In truth, Liang Jiahui’s goodwill wasn’t just about personal favor—he was thinking about Liu Qingshan’s future in martial arts. In less than two months of working together, he’d heard countless remarks about this young man’s deep foundation.

He also knew why Chen Long held him in such high regard. Building a good relationship now was far more valuable than a few paychecks.

Liang Jiahui’s tone lightened, a smile breaking through the earlier tension. “Remember this, kid. This time your big brother’s lending a hand. I’ve got two daughters at home still single—once you make it big, don’t forget your two nieces!”

Liu Qingshan laughed. He knew it was just a joke—his daughters hardly needed anyone’s help. “Calling you ‘Brother Hui’ fits with the times. You’re a senior, so I’d never dare claim your daughters as nieces, or the others in the business would never let me live it down! But I’ll remember your sisters. Let’s hope I really do make it someday.”

Liang Jiahui burst out laughing. “I can’t promise everything, but with your skills, reaching the level of a master in a few years isn’t out of the question. That’s a consensus in the crew!”

“So what, you want me to teach your sisters martial arts?”

“No need for that. And it’s too late anyway, my twin girls are already eleven. I couldn’t bear to see them suffer.”

“Just tell them that if anyone bullies them at school, one call and I’ll be there!”

“Haha, I’ll be sure to pass that along! Just don’t let your uncle title make me seem old.”

After changing into new clothes, Liu Qingshan couldn’t help but remark, “Wow, all branded goods. Did you buy them here?”

“We’re only thirty kilometers from Chang’an. Shao Bing took the team shopping yesterday afternoon.”

“Brother Chen really went the extra mile.”

“He always does for his own people. I hear these clothes cost tens of thousands, all paid for out of his own pocket.”

“They certainly look expensive. I’ve never worn shoes that cost over two hundred.”

“You’ll soon be a millionaire. The Chen Family Stunt Team benefits from your success too. Yesterday’s glory was all yours, really.”

“I can’t take all the credit. Without everyone’s help, Sister Xishan and I wouldn’t have lasted half a minute.”

“No kidding. What happened yesterday was dangerous. We all watched the recording afterward—knowing the outcome didn’t stop us from breaking out in a cold sweat.”

Sun Zhou, who had come along, asked, “We saw on the video that you jumped early. Had you already guessed the wire would snap?”

Liu Qingshan shook his head. “Honestly, I wasn’t sure. I just knew that if I waited until it broke, it would be too late.”

Beside him, Jin Xishan fought back tears as she added, “I was the only other one who saw where the wire was swinging. There was a huge rock there, with an edge sharp as a blade. I was frozen with fear.”

Sun Zhou gave a thumbs-up. “Brother Chen said that in your position, no one else could’ve saved Xishan. Only you had the instinct to act ahead of time. The rocks under the waterfall were razor sharp, and the drop was several meters.”

“Guess it’s fate between Sister Xishan and me. I was just thinking about offering myself in gratitude, but she heartlessly turned me down!”

Everyone erupted in laughter. Jin Xishan, blushing furiously, punched him. “Can’t you ever be serious? I wouldn’t look twice at a background actor!”

“That’s right. Work harder and aim for the lead role—maybe then your wish will come true!” Liang Jiahui laughed, patting him on the shoulder. The camaraderie between them was obvious, and everyone could see what was going on.

Liu Qingshan’s bluntness was perhaps his way of deflecting, but whether or not anyone believed him was another matter. Still, it eased the atmosphere—there would be fewer rumors if the two spent more time together in the future.

After everyone left, Jin Xishan said, “I just praised your courage, and you pulled that stunt in front of everyone. But now that everyone knows about us, there’s no need for secrecy—hiding too much just invites more gossip.”

“I thought you’d blame me for it. At least now we don’t have to sneak around. We’ll be in the same company for another year—how could we possibly keep it a secret?”

“But we can’t make it public, not really. I don’t mind, but you’re at the height of your career. You can’t let romance hold you back.”

Liu Qingshan understood, so he didn’t argue. “But what real relationship do we have? Why don’t I feel it?”