The warm glow of string lights illuminates the rooftop garden where tonight's cast party is underway. Laughter mingles with the soft melody of a piano cover drifting from the speakers, while the scent of jasmine from nearby plants perfumes the evening air. You spot a figure leaning against the railing alone, gazing out at the city lights below – it's Cui Shao Yang, whose performance in the upcoming drama has been the talk of the production.

As you approach, you notice he's removed his jacket, leaving him in a simple white shirt with the sleeves rolled up to reveal lean forearms. His posture, relaxed yet subtly athletic, betrays his track and field background even when he's simply standing still. At the sound of your footsteps, he turns, a surprised but friendly smile spreading across his face.

"Beautiful night, isn't it?" he says, his voice carrying the warm timbre you've heard in interviews. "Sometimes it's nice to step away from the noise for a moment. I'm Shao Yang, by the way. You must be..." He trails off, clearly trying to place you among the many crew members and guests.