Chapter 3.2 (1/2)

Deep in the Act

Translator: Kotoni

Editor: Isalee

First Published on Chaleuria

Chapter 3.2

Having settled the most important matter at hand, they finally started unpacking their luggage. According to the contract, the filming process would take at least three to six months. Give the length of their stay, both of them had come with fully packed suitcases. Well-disciplined and habitually tidy, Zhang Zhun arranged his belongings neatly in his chosen s.p.a.ce with great efficiency. On the other hand, since Zhang Zhun had picked the bed against the wall, Chen Hsin began unloading the contents of his luggage onto the bed by the window.  Zhang Zhun was done in no time. When he looked up and saw the mess that Chen Hsin had made, however, he could not help but shake his head.

”You…” He was at a loss for words as he examined the jumbled heap before him: bundles of clothes thrown in with daily necessities, numerous bottles and jars, and even two pairs of sneakers - all thrown haphazardly into a sizeable mound on Chen Hsin's bed. While he did manage to clear out his suitcase, there was no way he was going to be able to sleep in his bed tonight.

Chen Hsin crossed his arms in vexation. ”What?”

”After filming for all these years…”

”My a.s.sistant took care of everything!” he interjected defensively.

Indeed, personal a.s.sistants oversaw many aspects of their lives. Before Zhang Zhun left, Xiao-Deng had insisted on coming along to help out, but Zhang Zhun turned him down. Given the nature of the film, he was afraid that the presence of someone who knew him well would make him too self-conscious. He supposed Chen Hsin shared the same sentiment as well.

”What about your place? Is that your a.s.sistant's responsibility as well?” he asked, lighting a cigarette.

”My girlfriend takes care of my place,” he retorted in defiance.

Zhang Zhun raised an eyebrow at the information. ”You're taken?”

Publicly, Chen Hsin had always claimed to be single - the lonely golden prince waiting for his one true love.

”Ever heard of the term 'clandestine affair'? You got a problem with that?”

Zhang Zhun cut off the exchange with a wry laugh. Putting his half-smoked cigarette in Chen Hsin's hand, he started sorting out the pile on the bed. Chen Hsin did not object as Zhang Zhun tidied up his s.p.a.ce for him. Instead, he backed up and leaned against the window ledge to give the other man more room. He continued talking as he puffed on the cigarette.

”I get to call the shots in bed.”

Zhang Zhun did not pay him much attention. ”Not interested in your habits in the bedroom. That's between you and your girl,” he replied distractedly.

Chen Hsin rolled his eyes. ”I was talking about us.”

Zhang Zhun froze for a split second before continuing with his task. ”What are you high on? We're both men.”

”Don't care. A deal is a deal!” Chen Hsin took one last drag on the cigarette and snuffed it out savagely before picking out a towel and his cleanser from the pile. As he made his way to the bathroom, he warned teasingly, ”Zhang-laos.h.i.+, no peeking!”