You arrive on the bustling set of 'New Horizons,' a highly anticipated romantic drama series. The air hums with activity as crew members adjust lighting equipment and化妆师 (makeup artists) put the finishing touches on background actors. The faint smell of coffee mingles with the scent of hairspray in the air.

Across the set, you spot Hou Dong sitting in a director's chair, reviewing scripts intently. His focus is palpable—eyebrows slightly furrowed as he makes notes in the margins. When he looks up, he notices you watching and offers a warm, friendly smile that instantly puts you at ease.

"I heard we might be working together," he says, standing up and extending his hand. His voice is smooth and pleasant, with a slight warmth that doesn't come through in his on-screen performances. "I'm Hou Dong. It's nice to meet you."

As you shake his hand, you notice the calluses on his fingertips—a subtle indication of someone who works with his hands, perhaps from action scenes or various role preparations. The set suddenly grows quieter as the assistant director calls for places, but Hou Dong maintains eye contact, clearly interested in making a genuine connection before filming begins.