The voice actor lineup was finally set. Luo Xiaolu would voice Lavender, while Hua Cai was cast as the female second lead, Xiao Chun. Though Hua Cai hadn’t won Luo Xiaolu’s approval during Lavender’s audition, her talent stood out among the candidates—earning her the supporting role.
Xiao Qiu, a bright-eyed newcomer, voiced the male lead, Gong Sheng. Her boyish tone was exceptionally crisp for a rookie.
Truth be told, Luo Xiaolu could’ve voiced every character flawlessly. But she was just here for fun. Handling all roles meant crushing workload—and voicing both hero and heroine? Way too awkward… and way too tempting!
Per tradition, the animation team held a post-audition gathering. Attendees included the sound director, animation director, mixer, producer, unnamed staff, and even NB Studio’s president. Also present: the voice cast, plus Luo Xiaolu and Lü Ye representing the novel’s copyright side.
Held at a cozy bar, the group split into small tables. As original author and Lavender’s VA, Luo Xiaolu naturally sat with Lü Ye, the producer, and NB’s president. Staff at other tables craned their necks, desperate to glimpse the legendary Zhou Shuren.
To share drinks and work with Zhou Shuren? A dream most wouldn’t dare imagine!
Since she’d collaborate with them soon, Luo Xiaolu stayed relaxed—waving cheerfully at everyone. She exchanged polite flattery with the big shots: *“Thank you, Miss Zhou Shuren, for trusting NB Studio!”* *“May NB Studio grow ever more NB!”*
Her past-life self was a shut-in otaku. But her predecessor? A delinquent through and through. What rebellious girl dislikes drinks? Especially oolong-tea whiskey—the so-called “water of life,” a big sister’s signature sip.
Reborn under the “refined literary girl” label, Luo Xiaolu had thirsted for ages. Now, with a legit reason to drink? Even the System couldn’t scold her.
*Damn right—I’m drinking my fill!*
She launched her thesis experiment: *“Graceful Drinking: How to Sip Unnoticed While Ensuring Zero Complaints.”*
She nodded attentively at the president’s passionate speech, sipping delicately. Just as he hit his most dramatic point—she subtly signaled Lü Ye for a refill.
She thought she was flawless. Reality?
Whoa—Sensei Zhou Shuren has *this* side too?!
Hidden well… but damn, she’s drinking *way*, *way*, *way* too much!
The NB president gaped. Glass after glass vanished. A faint blush dusted her cheeks—yet zero signs of tipsiness. *No way without ten years of experience!*
A seasoned drinker himself, he nearly vibrated with excitement. *Such an adorable contrast!* He pictured her reciting poetry post-drink, channeling an ancient poetic immortal.
*Should I challenge her?* He hadn’t met a drinking rival in decades. Zhou Shuren reignited his fire! But… the setting? Her pure elegance? *How do I even ask?*
Heart pounding, he froze. A feeling surged—pure childhood crush. That ache of wanting to move but freezing completely, then cursing your own cowardice. He hadn’t felt this in forty years.
While he hesitated, Luo Xiaolu stopped perfectly short of drunkenness.
Her mood? Exceptionally bright. Better than in years.
Her gaze drifted to a corner table—three voice actors laughing together.
*Damn. This is where I belong!*
*Why am I stuck with two middle-aged otaku uncles?*
“I’ll discuss the script with the other VAs,” she smiled, nodding to the president before rising.
*NO!!!!*
Silent agony tore through him. Words choked in his throat. He watched her back fade—just like his first crush, years ago. Helpless. Mute. Orphaned.
He’d missed his chance. *Again.*
Heart shattered, he slammed the table. “Waiter! More drinks!”
*Tonight—I drink till I drop!*
Luo Xiaolu reached the VAs’ table: Hua Cai, Xiao Qiu, and their agent Liu Yu.
“May I join you?” she asked warmly.
The girls froze in disbelief.
“O-of course!” Hua Cai stammered.
Luo Xiaolu sat. The moment her weight settled, Hua Cai trembled—visibly nervous.
*How could she not be? This is Zhou Shuren!*
The idol every girl dreamed of becoming.
After yesterday’s audition mishap, Hua Cai’s brief doubt had melted into shame—and fiercer admiration.
“Sensei Zhou Shuren… could I have your autograph?” Xiao Qiu beamed, notebook ready.
“No problem,” Luo Xiaolu said, pulling a pen from her skirt’s hidden pocket. *Naturally—I’m a literary professional!*
*What? You think I carry this just for signings?*
*Nonsense! A refined girl like me? Never!*
*Say that again—I’ll break your leg!*
She signed swiftly.
Hua Cai watched, lip bitten raw. *No notebook!*
*Clothes? Should I ask?*
*Why can’t I be brave like Xiao Qiu?!*
Tears welled. Luo Xiaolu was tucking the pen away—*now or never!*
Luo Xiaolu turned. Saw Hua Cai pouting, eyes glistening, utterly dejected.
*It’s all over your face!*
*Don’t be shy—I won’t eat you!*
