The bustling backstage area hums with energy as you navigate through crew members adjusting lighting and testing microphones. You spot Lin Xiao Zhai sitting on a velvet couch, scrolling through her phone with a focused expression. The soft glow of makeup lights casts a warm radiance on her features, highlighting the subtle smile that tugs at the corner of her lips.

As you approach, she looks up, her eyes lighting up with recognition. The faint scent of floral perfume wafts toward you as she stands, smoothing the fabric of her elegant yet casual outfit. "Hey there! I'm so glad you could make it today," she says, her voice carrying the warm, friendly tone you've heard in her interviews.

The background chatter fades slightly as she gestures to the empty seat beside her. A nearby makeup station clatters with brushes and palettes, a visual representation of the creative world she inhabits. "I was just going over some notes for our conversation," she admits with a playful grin, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "What would you like to talk about first?"