How to Win Over A Heart

I'm just a well-behaved canary, but the Boss wants to make our relationship official. After being photographed meeting a director at night, caught in the center of rumors, the Boss asked if I wanted to publicly clarify. Me: "? Clarify what? That I'm your kept canary? That would be a first in showbiz!" Boss: "…What canary? Aren't you my girlfriend?" I'm a relatively unknown actress. But I have another identity, as Leo's kept canary. The kind who accompanies him for meals, drinks, and more. I'm 25 years old, have been with Leo for over two years, and in six months, our contract will expire. But I've noticed something strange about him lately; he seems to stick to me like glue. Including but not limited to sending me messages, calling me, asking if I've eaten, what I've eaten, and if it was good—such chit-chat. Just like a couple in love. It's simply absurd. I'm starting to suspect he's gone a bit crazy. Actually, Leo is a very good Boss. He let me move into his house, helps me connect with crews to find work, gives me a seemingly endless supply of money, cares for me in life, and I'm his only woman, never fooling around. Unfortunately. He doesn't love me. The woman he loves is Cherry, a celebrated actress. And I, who somewhat resemble Cherry, am often said to be her successor. Oh well, let them talk, I'll just ride the coattails of her fame. Even if her fans scold me terribly. So I'm very clear about my identity; I'm just a tool Leo found to relieve his desires, without having too many fantasies about him. But that doesn't stop me from giving him credit, just like now, after we've just finished an intimate moment. He carries me to the bathroom and patiently helps me clean up. See, he's so considerate. He could have just left me alone. Afterward, he takes out a card and places it on the table: "There's two million in here, use it first, let me know if it's not enough." The next day when I wake up, Leo is already gone. I get up, rub my sore waist, and sigh. Leo is indeed quite impressive, but maybe a bit too impressive. Such a delightful burden. I get up, tidy up, call the driver, and head to the set. Today there's an audition for a costume drama. The lead actress is Cherry. And I'm auditioning for the second female lead, Cherry's twin sister. What a crazy coincidence. This role wasn't arranged by Leo; I found it myself. I had no other option, since the director is a renowned award-winner. Actually, I don't have much feeling towards Cherry. After all, I don't like Leo either, so there's no need to compete with Cherry over him. At the audition site, I glance at the script in my hand and get a rough idea. It's a scene where the second female lead is abandoned by the male lead. I have to portray a heartbroken feeling. I'm quite good at this. Sure enough, the director is very satisfied. "Well acted, and you look a bit like Cherry too. Go back and wait for the notice." Seems like there's no big problem. Just a couple of days after I returned, I received the notice. I was selected for the second female lead. I happily scrolled through my phone, not even the random trolls on Weibo could affect my mood. After all, I'm focused on cashing in now! When I leave in six months, I'll be more confident. Leo came back and saw my happy expression, asking, "Why are you so happy today?" Hearing his voice, I put down my phone and leapt into his embrace, and he lifted me up effortlessly. "I'm about to star in Slayde's movie! As the second female lead!" Upon hearing this, Leo's lips curled into a smile, "Really? Amya, that's great." I was extremely proud, raising my head to accept his praise. He kissed the corner of my mouth, "Then to celebrate your selection, let's go out for dinner tonight." "Okay!" I jumped off him. Slipped on my slippers and went inside to change clothes. As a canary, I must have the poise of a canary. When the Boss wants to go out, I can't just wear a short t-shirt and big shorts like usual. I have to dress up beautifully so the Boss can have face. I quickly did my makeup and curled my hair, then changed into a red dress that highlighted my curvy figure. I glanced at my charming self in the mirror, sigh, I'm so beautiful. I'm almost in love with myself. In the western restaurant, we sat facing each other. I took off my sunglasses and put them in my bag. Here, I'm not afraid of being recognized. After all, the privacy of this restaurant is excellent. There's no risk of being exposed. Leo carefully cut the steak and pushed it in front of me. He's so attentive, it's almost tempting to love him! But I mustn't! I thanked him and took small bites. Just then, a couple sat down at the table next to us. "Cherry, what would you like to eat?" Upon hearing this familiar name, I turned to look. And sure enough, it was Cherry. Accompanying her was Zyron, the leading man of that movie and a renowned actor. Observing their intimacy, I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. When I turned back, I noticed Leo was also looking in their direction. Oh, a potential showdown! Unfortunately, the dramatic scene I envisioned didn't unfold. It was just Leo, visibly upset. With a sullen expression, he simply said, "Eat." Reluctantly, I shifted my gaze back and quietly continued eating my steak. He's jealous but too embarrassed to admit it—I get it. Then, Cherry's voice chimed in beside us, "Mr. Hailey, long time no see. I didn't expect to run into you here." I looked up and caught sight of Cherry's striking profile. Leo glanced at her but didn't engage in much conversation, offering just a simple greeting. "Ms. Aiden." With me, the outsider, present, they were too embarrassed to speak privately. This is when a perceptive canary knows to give the Boss and the woman he loves some space. I decided to excuse myself to the restroom.