The world of film and television begins with university lecturers

After Han Tao and Zhu Suosuo entered the house, they sat down together at the wooden dining table in the dining room.

The moment the lunchbox was opened, the aroma of beef shumai mixed with the smell of soy milk filled the restaurant.

Zhu Suosuo took the chopsticks, picked up a shumai and took a small bite, but her mind was still on Han Tao's message from last night, which had agreed that she could come and stay temporarily.

So after much hesitation, she put down the paper cup in her hand, gently stroking the inside of the cup with her fingertips, looked up at the person opposite her, and spoke with a cautious, tentative tone.

"Brother Han, last night you told me that if I wanted to move out of my uncle's house and hadn't found a suitable place yet, I could stay here..."

At this point, fearing Han Tao might misunderstand, she quickly straightened her back and earnestly added to the explanation, her eyes shining with a clear yet stubborn light:

"Of course, I will pay the full amount of rent. Just settle the bill according to the normal market price for this area. I absolutely cannot stay for free."

Moreover, after moving in, I can take care of all the daily housework, such as cleaning, laundry, and cooking, so Brother Han doesn't have to worry about it at all.

Brother Han, please don't refuse. This is my first step towards independence. I don't want to live a life dependent on others and have to be at their mercy forever.

Upon hearing this, Han Tao put down his chopsticks and looked at Zhu Suosuo with gentle eyes: "Don't worry about the rent. Just settle in for now. We'll talk about it when you have a stable job and more money."

  

As for housework, I'd be happy if you're willing to share, but don't treat it as a transaction.

"No, I know you're just trying to help me out because you feel sorry for me living under someone else's roof and feeling depressed."

I appreciate your kindness, but the more I appreciate it, the less I can accept your selfless care without feeling guilty.

As Zhu Suosuo spoke, she clenched her fist. "During this time, with your guidance, I have been forcing myself to learn to be independent. I can't lose the confidence to stand on my own two feet just because someone is willing to support me."

Even if we try to get to know each other now, I want to establish equal boundaries in our relationship through rent. I don't want to be overly dependent on you in terms of living expenses; that way, I'll feel more at ease.

Upon hearing this, Han Tao put down his breakfast and looked at her with a hint of admiration in his eyes.

He originally offered to stay temporarily simply because he overheard what her aunt said last night when he went upstairs and wanted to give her a safe and quiet place to stay.

In fact, she never intended to collect any rent, but Zhu Suosuo was determined to keep things clear and refused to owe favors to others. This clear-headedness was rare and precious.

"I was originally thinking of letting you stay for free for a while to help you escape the oppressive environment at home, but since you've said so, I have no choice but to agree."

Han Tao spoke slowly, making a concession in a friendly tone, "However, the rent can be half the market price."

Otherwise, given the rental prices of guesthouses converted from these old villas, even a small single room would be quite expensive.

However, you've just found a job, and even if you successfully join Jingyan, it's still your internship period. Your salary will definitely be unstable in the early stages, so don't put too much financial pressure on yourself.

Zhu Suosuo was about to retort, but he gently interrupted her by raising his hand: "Let me finish. Half price is not charity, but a reward for your daily housework."

You put in the work, I pay a corresponding discount, it's an equal exchange, neither of us owes the other anything, so you don't have to feel indebted all the time.

These words instantly struck Zhu Suosuo's most sensitive point. She was always most afraid that others would think she was dependent on Han Tao, and the equal exchange model perfectly preserved all her self-esteem.

She pursed her lips and nodded emphatically: "Okay, then I'll listen to Brother Han. I'll transfer the rent to you on time every month after I get my internship salary."

Don't worry about the housework, I'll definitely keep the house spotless and won't cause you any trouble.

Moreover, I will definitely seize this opportunity and focus on my professional growth at Jingyan.

"Sure, I believe you can do it." Han Tao nodded encouragingly, then took a sip of warm soy milk and continued.

"As for the moving time, if you are really sure you want to move out of your uncle's house, you can pack your things and come over anytime."

There are two secondary bedrooms on the second floor. The innermost one is reserved for you. It has a private bathroom and direct access to the terrace, so you won't disturb each other's daily life.

The living room, kitchen, and yard are common areas; let's just be considerate of each other's schedules.

Zhu Suosuo's eyes lit up immediately, and the unease she had felt earlier completely vanished. She hadn't expected Han Tao to have considered even the issue of privacy so thoroughly.

"Thank you so much, Brother Han! I'll talk to my aunt and uncle about moving as soon as I get home today, and I'll start packing these next few days. I'll try to move in before the weekend!"

Han Tao nodded slightly: "No need to rush, take your time. You can use finding a job as an excuse, but don't move out too abruptly, or it will seem distant."

If your aunt has any thoughts or actions that make you uncomfortable or unwell during this time, just call me directly. I'll help you communicate with her; you don't have to bear it alone.

Just then, Zhu Suosuo's phone received another WeChat message from Jiang Nansun, accompanied by several real photos of him in formal business attire for commuting to the mall, along with a voice message:

"Lock Lock, these are some styles I saw online yesterday. You can choose one when you have time."

Oh, right, I'm going shopping with Zhang Anren today. We'll meet at Pacific Department Store at 10 a.m.

Perfect timing! I'll pick out a few formal outfits for your work attire. A sales position doesn't allow for casual wear; professionalism is crucial.

After listening to the voice message, Zhu Suosuo looked up at Han Tao and said with a hint of apology:

"Brother Han, Nan Sun asked me to go shopping for some work clothes later. I have to leave after breakfast, so you'll probably have to pack your own things today..."

"Go ahead." Han Tao smiled. "Don't treat housework as a burden. Don't force yourself when you're too busy. Prioritize your career development."

He paused for a moment, then added, "Also, when choosing formal wear, remember to prioritize simplicity and elegance."

A professional and appropriate demeanor best suits the atmosphere of Jingyan Group's sales department. There's no need to deliberately pursue luxury; soft skills in the workplace are far more important than outward appearance.

"I got it!" Zhu Suosuo quickly finished the remaining shumai, packed up the lunchbox, threw it in the trash can, and straightened her shirt.

"I'll be going now, Brother Han. I'll send you a message to let you know once I've confirmed the moving date."

"Okay, call me anytime if anything happens." Han Tao got up and escorted her to the gate of the courtyard, watching her walk away along the stone-paved alley.

"You still have to go to school, go back and wash up, don't be late for class!" Zhu Suosuo waved her hand vigorously, a warm feeling spreading through her heart.

From childhood to adulthood, everyone who approached her was either attracted to her appearance and body or had other ulterior motives.

Han Tao, however, didn't stay angry for long. Instead, he helped her escape her difficult life and encouraged her to prioritize her personal growth, respecting her independent personality. He didn't lust after her at all.