Chapter 390

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Chapter 390: What’s a Sword on Top of the Head?

At the music festival, there were so many people. Bai Wei had never seen such a large gathering of ordinary folks, all coming together to celebrate.

He had never attended a music festival before, and personally, he didn’t like crowded places. But for those who lacked other forms of entertainment, aside from watching TV, participating in these festive events brought them joy.

The festival was held in Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, known for its large population. Many of the singers invited were popular from TV, including Hatsurai Wagaizuma.

Hatsurai Wagaizuma, who had gained fame just six months ago, already had a large fanbase and loyal listeners. Her versatile composition and singing style perfectly resonated with young people, catering to the tastes of the modern generation.

Though some of her more modern songs might not be well-received because they were too ahead of their time, the catchy melodies and simple music scores were memorable, leaving a deep impression as the world shifted from simplicity to complexity.

Bai Wei didn’t have a strong opinion about Hatsurai Wagaizuma, only recalling that Sakurai Shiru was one of her loyal fans. He had listened to a few of her songs but, with his knowledge of music, he had no desire to become a cultural critic. Sure, promoting a singer was easy for him, especially with the popularity of the three major divas… But that would be too simple. He preferred to let the music of this era develop freely.

But… how does she really know me?

Bai Wei thought back to her previous actions. It didn’t make sense for her to act like they were meeting for the first time. She shouldn’t have such a low guard, especially if they had already met before. But how could there be one-sided familiarity?

Could it be that she secretly liked me for a long time?

That was impossible. Who could like me without me noticing?

If she had that ability, maybe she should intern at the CIA.

If it wasn’t secret admiration, Bai Wei couldn’t figure out why she had been observing him from afar and was now making official contact. Given her appearance and personality, this enchanting Hatsurai Wagaizuma had no reason to avoid him. When they unexpectedly met, she rushed toward him without hesitation, like an unleashed Shiba Inu.

The more Bai Wei thought about it, the more puzzled he became, so he decided to wander around the music festival venue.

There were multiple stages, and the festival lasted for more than one day, typically ranging from three days to a week. The main stage opened in the evening, and smaller stages hosted performances from different musicians.

Do you remember the group of rock youth we saw at the subway station earlier? Bai Wei also went on stage and performed a song called “Lemon.” They had arrived at the venue too, though their performance was already nearing its end. The group had gained some popularity, and the lead singer performed with high energy.

At this time, the music industry was still a niche circle. Though influential, the number of musicians was still small. But considering the future boom in Yingzhou’s music industry, the potential for development and competition pressure was evident.

Bai Wei made his way to the most crowded place, the main stage, where tens of thousands of people had gathered. As the singing began, only top singers performed here. They had a large following, though the quality of their songs was… acceptable, like starfish.

Bai Wei stood at the back for a while, not knowing when Hatsurai Wagaizuma would perform. He had a ticket, and it would be a waste not to use it. He also wanted to ask how she knew his name. But then, he realized there was no point in staying and waiting. Even if she did perform, he wouldn’t be able to ask her then. It would be better to go backstage and ask her in person.

Getting past the backstage staff was a simple task for Bai Wei. He walked around, asking people, and found the location of the contestants’ resting room with ease. However, the foot traffic in this area was high, so he didn’t push the door open. Instead, he stood nearby and overheard the conversation inside.

“Your performance has been delayed by half an hour.”

“I’m sorry for the trouble, but the car broke down on the way. I didn’t want this to happen. If it weren’t for someone kind enough to help…”

“You’ve mentioned this kind person several times. I understand, Wagaizuma. Can you focus on the performance now? That kind person knows who you are and definitely won’t leave.”

“Mhmm.”

“And your makeup, no need for more. It’s fine like this.”

“I don’t like a bare face. Heavier makeup looks better; it suits my taste, like Cleopatra.”

“Cleopatra looks like a cat, but when you paint like this, you look like a poisonous snake with green scales.”

“Put down the makeup remover quickly! Are you trying to ruin the cash cow? How are we going to support the pretty boys at the milk bar with my ruined makeup, sister!”

The sounds of arguing, laughing, and playing continued. Bai Wei was about to listen a bit longer when a staff member approached.

“Where are you from, staff member? The place is busy, so don’t stand idle in the middle of the aisle. Find something to do, okay?”

Bai Wei quickly said, “Sorry, I’ll…”

Just as he spoke, he suddenly recognized the voice and looked down. “Huh?”

The staff member, busy calculating something and managing the hectic work schedule, didn’t notice Bai Wei right away. Guan Ling, who was managing things for the music festival, had been temporarily promoted due to her quick judgment and excellent scheduling abilities.

She was busy coordinating performances, and when she bumped into Bai Wei, she frowned. “I already said, sir, you must…”

She lifted her head, ready to scold him, but when she glanced up, she froze. Her eyes went blank, her heartbeat faltering for a moment before speeding up.

“Whi-, whi-, whi…” She stammered, unable to say his name.

“It’s me.” Bai Wei grabbed her hand gently. “It’s not a good place to talk here. Let’s go somewhere else.”

Guan Ling immediately forgot about her work and let herself be led, like a young bride. Her mind was a jumble.

Why was Mr. White here? Wasn’t he at home? How did he find this place?

Coincidences always happen unexpectedly.

Bai Wei looked at Guan Ling and asked, “How come you’re working at the music festival? Weren’t you supposed to attend the exchange meeting? Are you interested in music?”

“No, no, no, it’s not like that. I was just pulled in temporarily.”

“Is it really so desperate for help?” Bai Wei asked, surprised. “What’s a college student like you doing here?”

Guan Ling didn’t know what to say. She used Yagyū Simozi’s body but still needed to work to make a living.

She could tell that Bai Wei sensed something was off, though he didn’t figure it out right away. Would she explain it now? In this situation?

She wrestled with her thoughts, and her conflicted expression didn’t go unnoticed by Bai Wei. Seeing that she was fine, he relaxed his tone.

“I’m not trying to stop you from enjoying these things, hobbies… I know you like to relax by listening to music. You’ve always loved Hatsurai Wagaizuma’s songs.” Bai Wei noticed her looking down and gently patted her head. “Alright, I got carried away. I apologize.”

Nervously clenching her fist, Guan Ling couldn’t resist the care in his touch. The affection from a brother was like a jam-filled egg tart, sweet and intoxicating. She couldn’t bring herself to admit her true identity for now.

A sword was held against her neck, forcing her silence, enduring guilt, and tolerating the thrill of betrayal.

She mustered courage and playfully called out, “Brother…”

Bai Wei slumped his shoulders. “Alright, alright, I won’t stop you. It’s been years since you’ve used that tone.”

Guan Ling thought to herself, “So, she can act spoiled toward her brother… How nice…”

She thought that this would be enough, but desires bubbled up like restless little demons. As soon as she took one step forward, she wanted the next.

Suddenly, she wanted a hug. Would that be too much?

Her conscience told her to stop, but her heart urged her on. After all, this was Yagyū Simozi’s body, right?

She followed her heart, her gaze becoming hazy, intoxicated. She hadn’t touched a drop of alcohol, but she was already drunk, stumbling forward.

You can’t wake up someone pretending to be drunk, nor someone who has already passed out from it. Guan Ling was still young, easily falling into deep emotions and submerging herself entirely.

She tiptoed closer, like a Maine Coon cat approaching its owner, seeking comfort.

Of course, Bai Wei wouldn’t refuse the hug. It wasn’t the first time, though he was puzzled by the sudden shift in Frost’s mood.

As they got closer, a voice came from behind.

“Mr. White?”